SNACKING with Steph
Steph Joudrey
TrackDDB - Strategist
“If you are passionate about something, you can use that as a driver. People respect people that are passionate about their work. I see it in meetings every day where if we are pitching an idea that we truly believe in, the clients are far more receptive.”
Steph Joudrey
Professional Title: Strategist
@steph.joudrey
What are the go-to snacks you like to eat?
Sour Cream and Onion Ruffles Chips
Do you brush your teeth when you wake up or after eating breakfast?
When I wake up.
Do you wet your toothbrush before or after you apply toothpaste?
Before.
Who is your role model and why?
I don’t know that I have one role model per se. I admire any women who start their own businesses or go freelance. I’ve always known that’s not a path for me or my personality. I could probably get a lot done by adding a little of their hustle, confidence and general boss attitude to my life.
Who would you choose to play you in a movie about your life?
Drew Barrymore. I’ve always thought that we would get along. I love how honest and open she’s been about her struggles throughout her life.
Favourite Restaurant in Toronto?
The Wren – It’s in a weird strip of Danforth East, but it has amazing Southern inspired comfort food. I’ve never had a bad meal for dinner or brunch. Bonus is that it has a great local beer list.
What does equality mean to you?
It means that everyone has a seat at the table, their voice is heard and no one questions why there are there, why they are important to be heard or why they have feelings and insights that are maybe different from their own and might just challenge something that they thought.
When It’s all said and done, the title to your autobiography is called_____?
I Don’t Know. No, that’s actually the name. I Don’t Know by Steph. That was essentially my catch phrase for years.
It’s 2020, what does this decade look like to you?
If you asked me pre-Covid, I would have had a very clear answer and been sure of my answer. Since March, so many things have changed not just in the world, but in my own personal bubble, that I don’t know. I’m ok with that though, I’m an optimist, so I usually believe things will work out. Hopefully it’s a decade of big changes and moving forward both personally and professionally.
Who made the best ‘Sunday Morning’ song A) k-os B) No Doubt or C) Maroon 5?
Can I choose all 3? No Doubt was my teens, k-os was my 20s and the Maroon 5 vibe is how I am feeling in my 30s.
What’s the last item you purchased with cash?
OMG, I have no idea. I’ve had a $20 bill in my wallet since March, so it’s been a while.
What does retirement look like to you?
An unrealistic dream, I will probably work until the end.
According to you, who is the best-dressed person in business?
I’m going to give a big shout out to local Toronto stylist Afiya Francisco @afiya.francisco from @thestylehouse. She makes fashion look so effortless and easy, while also raising two kids.
What skill are you determined to master?
I have started painting since Covid and I really love it. My goal in the next few months is to get an easel and give it a really good go.
What three films best describe your life?
The most influential brand right now is?
All health, wellness and fitness brands, because it’s so much more than advertising. They have convinced us that we should feel guilty if we aren’t using their products and buying into their philosophy. People will pay for a gym membership they aren’t even using for months, because they feel guilty for cancelling. They have created an entire lifestyle for people by convincing them they need things to be a good person. It’s actually really amazing when you think about it.
Do you believe there is a way to turn your passions in to work, and if so, how?
Definitely, but I think you might need to hustle harder to be it successful. It probably won’t be easy. If you are passionate about something, you can use that as a driver. People respect people that are passionate about their work. I see it in meetings every day where if we are pitching an idea that we truly believe in, the clients are far more receptive.
Where is your happy place?
The movie theatre. I love it when the lights go down and it’s so quiet and I have my popcorn.
What are the 3 Albums that soundtrack your life?
The Gaslight Anthem – The 59 Sound
What three words would you use to describe your past three months of your life?
Stressful, Hectic and Interesting
What Public Figure inspired your career path?
When I was in high school, I would listen to Martin Streek and George Strombolopolous on 102.1 and MuchMusic and think that was what I wanted to do. I went to journalism school to be a music journalist. Life had a different idea for me in the end, but that was the ultimate goal and it was awesome while I did it for a little while.
What’s your favourite book or author?
Neil Gaiman - You can’t read one of his books without totally escaping to another world.
Name something you couldn’t go a day without. Why?
A cup of tea. I’m not a coffee drinker. A cup of tea isn’t just a wake-up drink for me. It’s relaxation. It’s an act of meditation. It’s also a tradition that’s passed down from my British mother.
Dogs or Cats?
I have a cat, so I will choose cats, because if I don’t he’s sure to know and attack me in my sleep.
What things in life are still a mystery to you?
I will likely always be searching for the secrets to more confidence and success. But also, the recipe for the perfect homemade buffalo cauliflower. It’s my favourite bar snack, but I can’t see to replicate it at home. Feel free to email me with your trick.