In this monthly series, Built In Chicago will highlight some of the most important players in our digital ecosystem: the women. From entrepreneurs to technologists, investors to academic leaders, and corporate innovators to developers, women play important and diverse roles in dozens of local organizations. Every month, we'll introduce you to five women worth knowing. Through these exclusive interviews, get to know these women through their likes, experiences, and maybe even their secrets. Here's one of them.
KD Ironside
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WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am developing an online dating app. I am taking a customer-driven approach, creating a unique, secure, fun, and positive experience.
HOW DID YOU BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR?
I've been self-employed for decades. Regardless of who writes the checks or makes the decisions, it's about service and doing my best work.
YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE ON A DAILY BASIS?
Financial. I've drained a large portion of my resources in order to work on my startup [an online dating app]. I will need to get a job soon to keep things going.
YOUR FAVORITE INDULGENCE?
Sleep.
YOUR SECRET WEAPON?
Seeing the big picture and appreciating the details. Also, having a sense of humor sure beats the alternative.
YOUR FIRST JOB?
I worked at A.C. Nielsen in Clinton, Iowa. I was a COBOL programmer. It was not the most interesting job, but the people were great.
YOUR ADVICE FOR YOUNGER WOMEN?
Be yourself, build a support system, don't take everything personally, avoid crazy people, be strong, follow your heart, and just do it.
Connect with KD on Built In Chicago, follow her on Twitter at @kdironside and add her to your network on LinkedIn.
nominate someone
Nominate your favorite woman for future installments of The Women Driving Chicago's Digital Renaissance by emailing Amina Elahi ([email protected]). Include her name, title, organization and a 140-character description of why she deserves to be featured.
