2012 40 Under Forty: Lindsay Kate Gerhardt

Gerhardt

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VICE PRESIDENT, Barry Communications

Company location: Worcester

Residence: Boston

Favorite movie: "Good Will Hunting"

Career highlights: My biggest career highlight was taking the leap six years ago to join the family business. At the time, the telecom industry was undergoing a major shift and my father had taken on new products for the first time in 20 years. With reluctance (it is a bit daunting going into a family business, not to mention how unglamorous I thought telecommunications was), I agreed to work for him for six months. Here I am, six years later, and I have found something I love to do.

Community involvement: I am a member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce and Women's Leadership Program within the chamber. It has allowed me to meet some incredible women and also provided an opportunity to use each other as sounding boards.

Biggest success: Success for me has been forming strong relationships with business leaders throughout the community. It has been soaking in all the knowledge of these folks. It has also been learning about my weaknesses and improving on them. It is a constant effort.

Biggest challenge: On a higher level a notable challenge has been self-doubt. As I grow up, I have made a concerted effort to be more self-aware and listen to my “gut” far more. I used to question myself constantly and lack confidence, but now when I make a decision, I follow it 100 percent and know it is the right one for me at the time.

Mentors: Three people stand out for me: My dad, my late grandfather “Poppy,” and my first boss, Jill Epstein. I learn more from my father professionally each day than I would have ever imagined. I keep a picture of my grandfather on my desk to remind myself that hard work pays off. And Jill showed me that you can have a life outside of work while running a successful business.

Hidden talent: I think I am a good cook.

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