Founder & Partner @ Kanvas | Foster Innovation, Develop Business Strategy, Drive Growth

Katie Nowak

It’s been 3 years without my dad.
Here’s what I'm reflecting on today -

My dad taught me to build a career that I loved.

He did that by taking me to his medical presentations and dinners around the world when I was young.

I remember I joined him at a private investigator meeting in Munich, Germany, and his colleagues were torn over whether or not Dr. Nowak’s 12-year-old daughter needed to sign an NDA to attend. 😂 

In that same meeting, he introduced himself as being from “Day-toi,” instead of Detroit, as everyone else was from various European cities. Lots of laughter ensued, and the whole room suddenly felt warmer, kinder. It was his magic.

Every time I travel internationally for work or step on stage (virtually or in-person), I think of my dad. 

Every time I make a pun or a joke in a meeting (approx 23408 times a day) and see my team light up, I think of my dad.

I wish I could share with him how watching his love of his work, and thus his love of people, all over the world fundamentally shaped who I am today….

…someone who loves what she does.

I often reflect on how I could someday pay this forward to my future family, someday.

How could I involve them in international travel? Have them attend my presentations or panels? Ask them to join me while I write invoices in my office? (That was hilarious - “what do you think, Kate, let’s add an hour, I read fast!!”) … and how might I make each shared moment more fun than the last?

Today, I’m reflecting that I hope to be even half of the role model that he was for me.

I hope this inspires a reflection for you, too - he would love that.

Miss you, dad.

—
I'm Katie Nowak, an investor, innovation leader, and new venture designer sharing examples & lessons weekly. Follow me + hit 🔔 to stay tuned.

Innovation Leader, New Venture Designer, Speaker @ Kanvas || Investor @ Altra Venture Partners

🚀 Product | Advisor | Angel Investor

Would you eat a scorpion? I would and I have. Always try new things and don't fear failure.

During the day, I lead product and design at Salesbricks on a mission to help revenue teams sell better and faster.

When the sun sets, I'm an eager traveller and an adventurous photographer. I create anecdotal accounts of what life has taught me about digital, leadership, career and education with the odd piece dedicated to my gastronomic journey around the globe. I try my best to capture the breathtaking moments I've experienced in the world (www.instagram.com/misteryeo).

I’m also deeply passionate about the intersection between education and technology; how technology in all its forms can influence the growth and development of future generations. 

Want to talk product management, education, personal development or food? Reach out via Twitter (@yeoa) or email (andy.yeo@gmail.com). If I'm not able to help you, I'd love to connect you with someone who can and if you have something to offer, I'd love to learn from you too.

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