Project Leftseat: The Future of Aviation Brokerage

Transforming AI Innovation into a Cinematic Brand story

2026

Led the creative vision for a flagship brand film that redefined how Leftseat communicates the future of aviation brokerage through the power of AI. Rather than producing a traditional product video, I developed a cinematic storytelling approach that translated complex technology into a compelling, human-centered narrative—making innovation accessible, aspirational, and emotionally engaging.

As Creative Director, Script Writer, and Video Director, I crafted the creative strategy from concept through production, using visual storytelling to position Leftseat as a forward-thinking technology leader. The film elevated the brand's market presence while supporting business development by creating a memorable narrative that resonated with prospective clients and helped drive engagement and conversion.

Role: Creative Director • Script Writer • Video Director

Decades: Retirement Planning

Turning financial education into engaging visual storytelling

2012

Conceived and led the creative development of an innovative in-office digital experience designed to introduce State Farm's retirement planning services while customers waited for appointments. Rather than creating a traditional promotional video, I developed a whimsical, dialogue-free narrative that entertained viewers while naturally reinforcing the value of long-term financial planning.

Recognizing an opportunity to leverage emerging creative capabilities within the organization, I brought together a team of graphic designers who had recently trained in stop-motion animation, transforming newly acquired skills into a distinctive storytelling solution. The collaborative approach resulted in a visually engaging piece that communicated effectively with or without sound—an ideal format for digital signage in busy agent offices.

As Creative Director, I guided the project from concept through production, demonstrating how audience-centered storytelling and cross-functional collaboration can transform a traditionally complex financial topic into an accessible, memorable brand experience.

GOLD ADDY Award

silver Telly Award

State Farm es Para Mi - Award Winning Experiential Marketing

Designing a warm and inviting booth rooted in the Latin cultures

2008

Directed the creative vision for State Farm's award-winning 30' x 30' National Council of La Raza Expo exhibit, transforming a traditional corporate booth into an immersive, culturally authentic brand experience inspired by Hispanic art and community values. The experiential campaign earned a Silver ADDY Award and strengthened State Farm's reputation as a trusted partner within Hispanic communities.

Directed the creative vision for State Farm's award-winning 30' x 30' National Council of La Raza Expo exhibit, transforming a traditional corporate booth into an immersive, culturally authentic brand experience inspired by Hispanic art and community values. The experiential campaign earned a Silver ADDY Award and strengthened State Farm's reputation as a trusted partner within Hispanic communities.

Inspired by the storytelling tradition of Diego Rivera's murals, I commissioned original artwork that celebrated Hispanic culture while seamlessly integrating State Farm's brand identity. To deepen engagement, I curated a welcoming, family-centered environment featuring live Latin musicians, bilingual children's activities, financial education resources, civic engagement information, and inviting community gathering spaces—creating an experience that felt less like a corporate exhibit and more like a neighborhood destination.

This audience-first creative strategy significantly elevated State Farm's presence at one of the nation's largest Hispanic community events, reinforcing the company's commitment to cultural authenticity, trust, and long-term community investment.

Silver ADDY Award for Experiential Design and Creative Excellence.

2011 Unity Award Recipient

Edward murrow national radio award

Recipient, Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Diversity Leadership Award (2011), recognizing journalists whose work advances diversity, inclusion, and representation in news media

Dilo en Español ("Say It in Spanish")
Community Journalism & Media Leadership

Building Community Through Culturally Relevant Storytelling

Launched and hosted Central Illinois' first Spanish-language radio program, Dilo en Español, creating a trusted platform that amplified the voices, experiences, and aspirations of the region's growing Hispanic community. Produced in partnership with WJBC/Bloomington Radio and sponsored by State Farm Bank, the program addressed a critical gap in local media by delivering culturally relevant news, conversation, and community engagement entirely in Spanish.

As creator, executive producer, and host, I established the editorial vision and content strategy for the weekly program, conducting hundreds of interviews with immigrants, business owners, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates. The show explored immigration, entrepreneurship, education, civic engagement, and issues impacting Hispanic communities while delivering national and international news through a culturally informed lens.

Beyond broadcasting, I expanded the program's community impact by creating two collegiate journalism internship programs in partnership with Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, providing aspiring communications professionals with hands-on broadcast experience while strengthening connections between higher education, local media, and underserved audiences.

The program became a vital community resource that informed, connected, and empowered Spanish-speaking residents, fostering greater civic participation and helping immigrant families feel represented and engaged within their communities.

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