Kate O'Reilly is a total renaissance woman. On Twitter, she describes herself as an “Optimist. Feminist. Nerd. Intrepid wordsmith. Obvious assassin. Entrepreneur.” (PS: Follow O'Reilly’s witty,140-character banter over at @cleverkate.)
But that doesn’t even begin to describe this Lady Geek of the Week. Check out her resume. In the past few years, O'Reilly has worked on “a high-profile Congressional campaign, transforming a television station, a magazine column of her own, coworking space launches, restaurant openings, new apps, six book launches, a feature film, ten small business launches, an international art show, dozens of large and small events, and a number of charitable projects.”
Right?! Excuse us while we feverishly refresh our LinkedIn profile and sign up for various volunteer projects and professional groups. In the meantime, check out O'Reilly’s interview with Being Geek Chic!
Q: How did you discover your passion for entrepreneurship?
A: When I was exploring what to do next after 8 years as a stay-at-home mom. I realized it would probably be impossible for me to work in a corporate or strict office environment ever again after I interviewed at a couple of places and heard stories from employees about missing family things, endless days and slow decision making processes. Total turnoff after running the show and shaping my own days for so many years. I wanted a life, not a career. Even before that, I always had my own business of sorts, even when little, I would sell things I drew or made and save the money for a rainy day. I could go on and on about why but it’s mostly this: I believe in risk and I love and crave change. And I like to do my laundry in between tasks.
Q: Where do you find your inspiration in life?
A: Colors and shapes. Books. My friends. My family. My sons and their sparkly brains. When other people are inspired, I am, too — classic empath.
Q: If you could take one fictional character out for a drink, whom would you choose and what would you drink?
A: CJ Cregg. We would drink Dark & Stormies until we sang “The Jackal” together at a DC dive bar.
Q: You can choose one superpower. What is it?
A: Hands down: Teleportation.
Q: What would you tell your 13-year-old self?
A: You are enough. When you don’t feel like enough, and you will, take a nap. Sleep solves everything.
Emma Bauer is a Being Geek Chic Contributor. Clearly, she’s got great taste. She is a PR enthusiast, history scholar, tea drinker, fashion devotee, and of course, aspires to Be Geek Chic. Follow her on Twitter: @emmalynnbauer