Sunny Lenarduzzi talks for a living, both as the host of Beer Money on City TV and as the Social Media Host for Breakfast Television Edmonton. What was the inspiration behind her career path? Find out in today’s profile…
Elevator Pitch:
I talk for a living… seriously. My business is communicating messages effectively both on air and online. I host Beer Money on City TV, and it’s even more fun than it sounds! It’s a sports trivia game show, set in bars, where we reward sports fans with cash for their knowledge. I also cover the latest social media trends, viral movements, and technology as the Social Media Host for Breakfast Television Edmonton. I have worked with a variety of clients as a social media strategist, creating authentic brand strategies to build engaged relationships with their audiences.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
The inspiration to start my business came from my background in traditional media. At the time I started my business, I craved real time interaction with the people I was delivering a message to. I saw an opportunity for interactive, social journalism. Honestly, I didn’t have a clear vision for how I would accomplish that goal and it’s still a work in progress. I’m inspired by the digital revolution of traditional media, and the opportunities available to transform the way we receive and distribute information.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part and the most challenging part of what I do on a day-to-day basis is the pace! There is always something new to learn or a new platform to discover. It does get overwhelming at times, but I’m grateful to wake up every day knowing I will learn something new.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
I will be a thought leader in the digital journalism space. I’ll be a contributor on television, radio and online. And I’d like to host my own online, live streaming daily show. It’s a long way to go, and I have a lot of learning to do, but I’m ready and excited for the challenge. If you can’t dream big, why dream at all?
What does success look like to you?
I don’t think success looks like anything; I believe success is a feeling. This is very cliché, but joy is what success looks like me. I am successful if I am waking up with a desire to get to work every day. But above all else, success means having my professional and personal life working in harmony. My parents always told me, “Your career will never tell you it loves you at the end of the day.” I’m blessed to have an incredible family, partner and network of inspiring friends. Without them, my success means nothing.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Reporting for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Whistler. It was an incredible experience and the turning point for me, knowing that I was on the right path with my career.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
The best advice I have for other young professionals is to become your own biggest advocate and to have an unwavering belief in your purpose. Just because someone who is older or more experienced is giving you advice on how to run your business or brand doesn’t mean you have to make changes based on that. I am grateful to have an amazing network of mentors and I believe this is vital to success, but I have learned to take all advice with a grain of salt. At the end of the day, no one cares about your success as much as you do. You have to make the right decisions for yourself.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Think before you tweet. I’m a huge advocate for educating kids on the fact that words do kill. StopCyberbullying.org has a team of young volunteers and community programs to help kids address and stop cyberbullying. There’s a long way to go in preventing online bullying, but organizations like this are making headway.
What is Notable to you?
Following your calling. There will always be obstacles, but if you want something bad enough, you will overcome them to live the life of your dreams.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone all the way! I’m a Appleaholic, I don’t think I could ever use another phone.
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
With a 3am wake up call for Breakfast Television, it’s definitely a challenge! A healthy diet plays a huge role and drinking lots of water. I also believe in taking at least 30 minutes out of your day to just breathe. Whether you meditate, go for a run, or just unplug, it’s necessary for your well-being. Oh, and power naps… lots of power naps.