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While Bridget Thede never was able to fulfill her childhood dream of becoming a dolphin trainer, ending up with a successful career in the ARM industry is just as exciting and rewarding for her. Her positivity and ability to find alternative solutions to problems is something she brings to both her work and personal life. Read on to learn more about Bridget, where you’re likely to find her every weekend during the summer, and how she balances meeting new people despite being an introvert.
Name: Bridget Thede
Job Title: Licensing Specialist & Co-Founder
Company: Simplicated, Inc.
Length of time at current company: 3+ years
Length of time in industry: 14 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I just had my son and was debating about going back to school. Given a newborn, the timing wasn’t right, so I applied at a collection agency to work within two divisions, Organizational Development & Compliance/Litigation. I quickly found my passion in Compliance and Litigation. Fast forward to today, although I am no longer inside those walls, I am able to use my experience to help clients today.
What is your career highlight so far?
My current path. When presented the opportunity to start Simplicated, I jumped on it. I knew the potential, and pain points people were experiencing, and how we could help. Shortly after starting the company, we were fortunate enough to be able to start building a team to be proud of!
When or how are you most productive?
I am most productive in the morning after some coffee with music playing in the background.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
There are several I admire and respect. Robbie Malone, although she is no longer with us was a passionate attorney and leader with a huge heart and a bit feisty! Mike Frost for his leadership and guidance over the years in the ARM industry, which has propelled me to get where I am today.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
We all know there will always be someone who can do it better. I would say I am good at analyzing and taking a different approach (not necessarily “better” than anyone) and surrounding myself with people who are positive and want what is best for each other. That includes my professional and personal life. No one wants a Debbie Downer.
What do you like most about this industry?
The people! There are so many great people from all different backgrounds, it is fun to hear them talk about how they got into this industry.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I would say how people perceive the industry.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
If you asked me that as a child, I would be a dolphin trainer. I definitely went astray from that! I would probably be doing something with architecture and interior design.
Describe a typical work day.
My days always start with coffee while checking emails. Then going through a to-do list that seems to change constantly, and I never seem to get to the bottom.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I wouldn’t call it guilty pleasures, no guilt here! LOL – I like indulging in a good book, being on the lake, or in the sun getting fresh air.
What are you currently reading?
I wish I could say I’m reading something motivational or inspirational, but anyone who knows me knows that’s not true.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I like meeting new people but am somewhat of an introvert. When I am not at conferences or in the office, I can usually be found running kids around to sports practices and games (soccer being our favorite). During the summer my husband and I spend every weekend with our kids on the lake sharing a house with 18 other family members, which is my absolute favorite! I have an amazing extended family, and we are all very close.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
John Kelan
