I came from running multiple units and consulting to fixi troubled assets in high volume restaurants and nightclubs in the top markets of the U.S. so being a GM was a step back. However, while interviewing with the CEO and trying to convince him why I should oversee numerous properties, Tom listened and then explained. He shared that it’s a unique business and that the only way to truly learn is to run a property. That was not what I wanted to hear. It was a pay cut for me but the opportunity seemed limitless. After 20 years of experience and being highly recognized in my career, Tom was right. I never knew the bowling and amusements business was so intricate. And he lived up to his word. After almost 2 years as a GM, I developed my team to be promoted so I could be as well. I was able to share my lessons in training before being promoted to a DM position. It’s a lengthy process in the beginning to be a manager You will take a test, speak to HR, a DM, a GM and the RVP and CEO for a GM position. I was not prepared for the length of time, but it’s for good reason. If you make it through the process, you are committed to overcoming challenges. There are a lot of moving parts in this business, and you will be challenged like you have never been before. It’s not for everyone. Many in upper management took steps back in their career to start and grow into a higher role. It’s a sacrifice we all make to have a chance at approaching our responsibilities from an entrepreneurial perspective. That’s not something that every company offers. I had my challenges in the interview process, but it needed to happen to prove I could thrive in this culture.