His latest venture is Fenix, a performance space, recording studio, restaurant and bar in San Rafael that opened its doors in January 2013, where he’s executive director.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up mostly in San Francisco and have been making the trek across the bridge since the toll was $0.25. For the past 12 years, I’ve been living in Pacheco Valley, which is a wonderful environment without the noise of city life. It’s far enough away from street lights, but close enough not to feel isolated.
Do you have a big family?
I’m one of three siblings but hail from a much larger family. I grew up with cousins, aunts and uncles that we’d spend time with regularly. I think, in some instances, it’s a tradition of a bygone era.
Are you married?
I was married for 15 years, but life sometimes leads you on a different path. Out of that union came twin daughters, now 25.
What are your passions?
Philanthropy has been something my family has participated in as long as I can remember, and my personal a-ha! moment came a number of years ago. Learning it’s a privilege to give was a great life lesson for me. I’ve met people who inspire me daily by working tirelessly to ensure others have opportunities. I’ve been donating my time and talents to The Taylor Family Foundation, Bread and Roses, and Music in Schools Today for more than 20 years now.
What do you love to do outside of work?
For the past several years, I’ve been traveling within the states, visiting our national parks and staying in historic lodges. It’s amazing, after circling the globe, to realize these parks have great stories to tell about how they were formed and developed, and about the folks who had the foresight to preserve them.
Describe one of your happiest life moments.
Having children, of course. But also, I think, setting little goals that are attainable. There’s still a lot of road to cover, so happiness is a daily reward.
What’s your favorite song right now?
Coming from a musical family and listening to thousands of songs, the one that’s most poignant has to be “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell.
Do you believe in destiny?
I believe in preparation and luck. Is that close?
If you could have a dinner party with three people from history, who would they be and what would you talk about?
The guest list would be Martin Luther King, Jr., Leonardo DaVinci and John Muir. The topics would include intuition, discovery, humanity and perseverance. One question I’d ask: Would they be as prolific in these modern times?
What are the best and worst sounds in the world?
The best is children laughing. The worst is listening to someone in pain.
What lesson did you have to learn the hard way?
To trust my intuition.
What’s the hobby or activity that takes up most of your time outside work?
The ones I’m currently enjoying are hiking, traveling and art. They all can transport me to another space and quiet the noise that engulfs my daily life.
When is the last time you laughed out loud?
That’s a daily ritual. I picked up the habit many years ago. You just can’t take everything to seriously.
What’s your favorite book?
Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
What’s your greatest extravagance?
Life: being able to wake up in a free society, give service to organizations and give love freely.
What’s your favorite quote?
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” —Martin Luther King, Jr.
