Our Community Managers are a special bunch. Coordinating, troubleshooting, creating a welcoming space one pot of coffee at a time. Take a moment to meet THRIVE | Columbus’ Kate Sampson … and find out the true American hero she has a special connection to.
What’s your hometown?
Canton, OH (don’t ask me about the Pro Football Hall of Fame, I’ve never seen it but I was in the Hall of Fame beauty pageant once).
Dogs or cats?
Both! Growing up I had both, but our cat was raised by our dog and acted exactly like a dog. So, I guess dogs … or cats raised by dogs.
Cake or pie or cookies?
Yes, as long as there’s ice cream to go with them!
What’s your musical jam?
Currently in an Alanis Morissette vibe, last week it was Fleetwood Mac. It changes all the time.
What song do you want everyone to know?
“Imagine” … but like really internalize the lyrics and live it.
Most used app on your phone?
Probably my podcast app or Instagram. The Instagram algorithm is currently convinced I’m trying to go vegan — I must look at too many vegan cooking reels.
Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunset — not a morning person at all.
Have you ever gotten someone’s autograph or a celebrity selfie?
I used to hang out regularly with [Mercury astronaut and US Senator] John Glenn in college because of the program I was in — the John Glenn Institute Living-Learning Program. I have an autographed copy of his memoir.
What’s your favorite neighborhood shop/restaurant?
Columbus has endless amazing options! A favorite for brunch/coffee is Dough Mama and a favorite shop for local goodies and plants is The Brass Hand.
Most prized possession?
My grandmother’s wedding ring that was turned into a necklace pendant for me.
Whom do people say you look like?
I was recently told I look like Lauren Daigle, so I’ll take it.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Eating an entire pint of Häagen-Dazs coffee ice cream while watching TV. Actually, that’s just fun and I don’t feel guilty about it.
Where’s your happy place?
The beach!
What’s your favorite comedy film?
Barbie.
What’s your motto or favorite saying?
SSDGM. [Kate’s a fan of the hit true-crime/comedy podcast My Favorite Murder.]
What absolutely excites you right now?
It’s almost planting season in Ohio! This is the time of year I can start planting a garden and I usually repot my many, many indoor plants.
What skill do you think it takes to be a great CM?
Being an excellent planner is key. Anticipating needs and learning how to keep everything running smoothly helps.
What’s the least obvious skill do you think it takes to be a great CM?
Having a really good memory. We have to remember a lot of names, faces, situations, how problems were resolved in the past, etc.
You wouldn’t know it to look at me, but …
I won the lottery last week. It was $4 but I’m trying to stay humble about it
