Monica Matsakis

I contributed to launching the Laughing Academy's storytelling program, now with three annual sessions and a growing community of returning students. As an instructor, I coach students on storytelling fundamentals and performance techniques, offering guidance to overcome pre-performance anxiety and improve stage presence. This has enriched the program and fostered a developing storytelling community under the academy's leadership

• Instruct students on storytelling fundamentals and performance techniques, covering strategies for overcoming pre-performance anxiety and mastering microphone technique
• Consult on editing students' stories when necessary, providing recommendations and guidance
• Guide group feedback sessions, stimulating constructive discourse and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the class.

• Write and perform narratives at venues in front of groups ranging from 80-300 people, including The Moth, This Much is True, Truth Be Told, Story Lab, and the Laughing Academy

• In spearheading the launch of Retail Outlet Stores in Logan Square and Niles, I orchestrated a condensed 30-day project cycle, positioning my company to benefit from being open for the entire holiday season. Leveraging data analytics, I optimized product replenishment, stocking shelves with top-performing items, and strategically sourced new inventory to align with market trends. The result was a dual success that underscores my ability to lead a vision from concept to reality.

Led the development of our company's proprietary duct tape, achieving Amazon's Featured Brand status. I managed the product line to reach $399K in gross revenue in 2021 before it was sold in 2022

• Directed end-to-end import production, managing sourcing, agent communication, product development, design, packaging, and pricing while consistently adhering to deadlines
• Collaborated on digital marketing campaigns, optimizing strategies for effective product promotion
• Facilitated constructive meetings to enhance organizational communication and implement collaborative changes.

I introduced closeout products that evolved into lucrative import lines by strategically sourcing high-demand, high-margin products through trade shows and vendor relationships. Notably, two Amazon Best Sellers: food tents that grossed 1.45 million in 2020 and thermal socks that grossed 2.1 million in 2019. Both played a pivotal role in driving the company's import expansion

• Consulted on comprehensive Product Description Pages, overseeing written content, photography, videography, and voice-overs.