Answer: I acquired part of the company in 2017. On an interesting note, the first Hot Head Burritos went into a shopping center I was leasing as a commercial agent in 2007. I had been looking for additional investments and when the opportunity came up in 2017 to buy into Hot Head, I did it. In 2015, I founded Rapid Fired Pizza with three other investors, and we sold it in 2021 to an out of state investment group.
Q: What led you to this point in your career?
A: Everything. I have been a commercial Realtor for 20 years and before that spent 3 years as a licensed financial securities rep in addition to spending time in the real estate title, mortgage and printing industries. My bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Columbus based Capital University has been a great resource in securing more national recognition for Hot Head Burritos.
Q: Who are a couple of people you think of as your professional board of directors (the folks you go to for advice and support)?
A: I have been lucky to have experienced business partners that are a great resource. I have also cultivated friends in the legal field, other business owners and restaurant operators that provide a wealth of diverse knowledge. I think it’s important to have people for advice and support both inside and outside of your industry. Just because someone is a competitor doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t still help and support each other.
Q: What is advice you have for women growing their careers?
A: Become an expert in your chosen field through education and mentorship. Women especially need to time block their day, which includes a little block for yourself. Block time for your work, your family and for you! If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of others. Put your oxygen mask on first.
Q: When you were a child, what career did you hope to have?
A: I actually wanted to be an attorney as a child. While I never went forward with that, I currently spend a lot of time reviewing contacts for Hot Head Burritos. As a child, my best friend’s parents owned several printing franchises and they were really a motivating factor in my desire to be an entrepreneur. I saw the hard work and I saw the rewards, and knew that is what I ultimately wanted.
Q: Are you involved in any cohorts, boards, nonprofits?
A: I am the current President of the Gem City Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and was selected by the national organization as a Top 10 Business Women for 2025. I actively donate to Artemis Center and spearheaded the Dine In Fundraiser program at Hot Head Burritos where non profits can sign up right from our website for a fundraiser at their neighborhood restaurant.
ARE YOU A WOMAN IN BUSINESS?
We are seeking women in business leadership to be featured in the Dayton Daily News. Send your details or nominate someone by emailing Editor Mandy Gambrell at mandy.gambrell@coxinc.com.