Hi! I have experience in Human Resources, working within Talent Acquisition for 22 years. I xperience in behavioral assessment and recruitment, a Certified Professional & Executive Coach with ICF accredited training in CEC, CPC, CMC, CBT, DBT, REBT, and an NLP Mindset Practitioner. With unwavering compassion, George guides people toward sustainable change and empowers them to cultivate positive habits, achieve goals, and foster a thriving mindset.
As a business owner of Wags Over Worries, LLC. and Thrive Mindset Coaching, LLC. George is a member of SCBWI, a dad, a pet owner, a writer, a coach, and a passionate advocate for Mental Health and wellness.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Debi and I have one amazing son, Georgie, 10 years old (going on 16), and two lovable and highly enthusiastic dogs, Maya Grace (Silver Lab Retriever), and Charlie Mae (Golden Retriever). I am also blessed to have been raised in a blended Italian/Irish and Puerto Rican Family. I have 8 incredibly talented siblings, including an identical twin brother.
Q: Please tell us about your current career. What do you love most about what you do?
I’d love to! I am an Author of the children’s book, “Oh, Maya!” Maya Meets Her Forever Family. This book is the first in a
series about helping kiddos manage anxiety and conquer worry so they can be their very best selves. Anxiety is prevalent in both adults and children and can be disabling. These stories provide children with fun, adventure and also offer practical techniques to help them learn to self-regulate. If interested in purchasing a copy or learning more, here is a quick link to the book.
I am also the founder of two companies: An online resource center for caregivers called Wags Over Worries and a Personal & Leadership development coaching company called Thrive Mindset Coaching & Consulting. I am an advocate for mental health, wellness, and productivity. Previously, I worked in Human Resources-Talent Acquisition for 20 years. While working within corporate, I developed a medical condition with my vocal cords and could no longer speak without pain. I took time off to
undergo procedures and work on my recovery. I also took this time to enhance my coaching competencies, learn new skills, and pursue my writing passion. This hardship was a blessing in disguise. It allowed me to refocus my perspective, push mental boundaries, and continue to drive my mission of helping people. Helping people is my north star.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
We have outstanding restaurants in the area. Our go-tos in our community are Mahwah Bar & Grill, Giovana’s Cafe, and Bici.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
We bought our first house here in Mahwah in 2015, so 8 years. Wow time flies! Prior to this, we rented in Allendale to get a feel for the area.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
We have met so many fascinating people, it’s hard to narrow it down to one.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
It would be to an island, likely Turks and Caicos. Never been and heard it’s beautiful.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
One of my favorite movies is Any Given Sunday with Al Pacino. A fav TV shows was a reality show called Gold Rush. I don’t watch much TV these days, but most recently watched The Crown.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be kind, find humor in everything, and keep it simple: Small acts of kindness reveal big character and create cascading joy. Laughter is the best medicine for the soul. Lastly, because some people are overthinkers and tend to overengineer (me included), pause and take a breath, and remember that the best way is most often the simplest way.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Tour the castles of Scotland- with a stop in Ireland to learn more about my heritage and grab a Guinness along the way.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
As a DJ of 15 years and coming from a musically gifted and brilliant family, I enjoy all types of music. music. My impromptu music would be Bob Marley, Teddy Swims, Chris Stapleton, Nora Jones, Louis Armstrong, or Lounge/House Music, depending on the mood.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I would say Houlihan’s. on route 17 North. We frequented this establishment when we moved here because it was conveniently located one mile from our house…Too convenient!
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Although I have an exhaustive list, I'd start with Elon Musk. He's fascinating. I’d love to delve into his thoughts on business philosophy, global warming issues, and the universe. We’d book a table at Varka or Bici’s restaurant in Ramsey.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Mahwah has many attractions. Along with a ski mountain, and superfluous industry, we also have our own museum. However, my favorite thing is the amazing friendships we developed once Georgie started school.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself leading a thriving business, continuing to publish books, and helping millions of people across the globe.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
One of my favorite sources of inspiration is the song “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. (Is this going to be published? Lol). On a more serious note, I find that being productive and accomplishing tasks gives me energy. When I’m over-stressed, this kicks into overdrive, and cleaning, building, and organizing becomes my default coping mechanism.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Florence, Italy. Florence (Firenze) has this pristine, majestic beauty along with inspiring old architecture that transports you back in time to a different world.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
September in New Jersey is my favorite because of the bright white clouds and deep blue skies, the comfortably warm ocean waters and breezes, and the anticipation of the upcoming season change. Christmas is my favorite, with Christmas Eve day being the highlight of the year for me.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Hmm. In the context of food, I would have to say Market Basket’s Blueberry Crumb Pie. I am not typically a dessert person, but I would eat this everyday if I could.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My family and friends inspire me to be better every day. I surround myself with caring people who are smarter than I am. This way, I am always learning! “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.”- Anonymous.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Suntan Lotion, Freshly Cut Grass
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Connection, Fulfillment, Energy
