In the boardroom, Mr. Trump seemed to lay much of the blame for the loss on Charmaine. I know hindsight is always 20/20, but can you let us know why you chose to let her off the hook by not bringing her back in the boardroom?
The truth of the matter is that I made an error and I was fired for it. In life I don't think things are that black or white. I am aware of the fact that Mr. Trump makes his decision based on an individual task verses looking at the person for who they are and how they have performed overall. I look at the overall integrity of a person and then make my decisions from there. I saw Charmaine as someone with integrity. I respected her work ethic and determination. I did not have that respect for either Tarek or Lenny. Just remember that in life you are hired for what you know and you are fired for who are. In this case I'm okay with being fired.
There seemed to be real animosity between much of the team and Lenny. He's got a strong personality and in a different way so do you. Do you think the clash of personalities may have cost you in the boardroom?
Without question. I lost sight of the prize. I became emotional about business - never a good idea - especially on this show. Lenny is an individual who can offend someone and then manipulate his way back by making excuses. I see right through him. Lenny made things personal with everyone on the team, which will always create friction. His work ethic and behavior are not suited for such an environment. Reacting to that behavior was my downfall.
It's one thing watching The Apprentice from home, I'm sure it's quite another living it the way you have. What most surprised you during your experience?
I was surprised by the intensity of the experience. I didn't think it would be as difficult as it was, impossible tasks with enormous limitations, minimal to no sleep, loss of weight, and personalities, personalities, personalities.
I was also surprised that I was nominated to be project manager and lost so early on. It was certainly not time for me to go. The thing I am most surprised about is the role I played in the show, because it is obvious that with reality TV comes some very creative editing.
You've been on the inside of The Apprentice and with your background have better insight than most about the individual dynamics and idiosyncrasies of the candidates. Who do you think we should look out for in the weeks ahead?
Tarek will continue to amount to very little on the show because his ego is always in control. He is reactive and suffers from low self-esteem. The fact that he continues to disappoint Mr. Trump and takes such brutal beatings is a sign that he is comfortable with that. It is sad that someone has to blame or bring others down when in fact he is the failure. Tarek will hopefully grow from this experience by becoming more humble and opening up his mind to the possibility that he is not "perfect". If Tarek can gain insight into his weaknesses, he could become powerful.
Because of his attitude he will lose all respect of his team and they will yearn for his defeat.
Lee is a rising star. Having chosen to opt out of two of the tasks due to his religious holiday - no doubt during a job interview - shows that he is an individual who isn't afraid to walk to his own beat. That could prove to be a plus or a minus for him. He is young and hungry, so get out of his way. This kid has everything to gain and little to lose.
I would also look out for Lenny. He is capable of cruelty that few are. He has little regard for others and lacks empathy. He always has his best interest at heart and will STEP on whoever gets in his way. This could be an asset in business if you plan to change your business often, which I believe Lenny has done. He is an individual who is probably sensitive and loyal to those he lets in, but if you're not in the "family" you better watch your back.
I expect Charmaine to show America that I can see through these individuals. That in fact she is a very capable candidate for Mr. Trump's Apprentice and an asset to the Gold Rush team. I think Charmaine is a balanced mix of intelligence and survivor. She wants this! So boys, hold onto your seats because she is coming after you.
What's next for you now that your adventure with The Apprentice is over?
I am focusing on my family, my career and my peace of mind. I co-founded an amazing new venture with an ex-Goldman Saks executive, Jennifer Tashima. The company, North Shore Design and Development, is sure to be a huge success. We feature the following services: Professional Home Staging, Redesign for Living, and Renovation Management. It is a collaborative process, merging our principles of design and construction to benefit our clientele. It is an integration of my psychology and real estate skill sets. I am excited for its launch.
In addition I am pursuing my commercial print and acting career. I have interest in radio, TV, hosting and commercial voice over work. My future looks bright and I plan on basking in it.
