Bringing over 15 years of experience in decorating, home renovations, and entertaining, Katie Brown is a best selling author, and host of the TV series "Katie Brown Workshop" on public television and Create TV.
The new Yahoo DIY Crafts Magazine will be a destination for sophisticated "how to" projects, a resource for DIY enthusiasts, and will make aspirational projects doable. From decorating a room on a budget, learning how to stain a floor, hang curtains, and get tips on hosting a unique dinner, the magazine will be infused with personality, style, and sophistication.
How has your life experience made you the leader you are today?
For the past 15 years, I've focused on all things home. From producing and hosting shows to writing books and developing products, I've developed focused career. I can prove that DIY and working with your hands makes life better. Makers is a movement that I've been a part of since the beginning. My vantage point is one of my most valuable assets.
How has your previous employment experience aided your position at Yahoo Makers?
My experience as a TV producer and host has helped build a rapid-fire video inventory. Since Yahoo Makers launched in October, we produced over 150 original videos. As a bestselling author and NY Times syndicated columnist, I learned how to transform original photo stories into beautiful online vignettes. My experience taught me to recognize gifted talent when I see it. I've assembled one of the best teams in the business.
What have the highlights and challenges been during your tenure at Yahoo Makers?
I have always been an entrepreneur. Fitting into the corporate mold is a welcome challenge after building a career on my own. Yahoo welcomed my entrepreneurial spirit with open arms and has given me room to play and create.
What advice can you offer women who are seeking a career in your industry?
Work HARD. Listen, be curious and open yourself to any and every opportunity. Decide what scares you the most and charge!
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
I am not sure I have mastered this one. When my well of creative ideas is dry, there is just no forcing it. I listen to my creative heart. When it yells 'give me a rest' loud and clear, I know it's time to recharge. I am still learning to take a beat before my heart really YELLS!
What do you think is the biggest issue for women in the workplace?
Accept that it's is okay to argue, to disagree, to get frustrated, to be demanding, to want more, to demand greatness, to work hard, to expect the moon. Being a good girl is NOT the only way to be a bright light for our sisters and the world.
Which other female leaders do you admire and why?
I don't have to look much farther than my studio. Kathy Savitt (CMO and Head of Media at Yahoo) impresses me each and every day with her grace and tenacity. Marissa Mayer...she is a master. A few others to note: Arianna Huffington built her passion into a business. Martha Stewart built her loves into a business. Oprah believes that if you are your best and most authentic self, people will listen. These women are as good as it gets.
What do you want Yahoo Makers to accomplish in the next year?
I'd like Yahoo Makers to be THE online home for the most interesting, creative and unique DIY projects out there. We're certainly on our way.