Home: New York, NY. Age: Early 50s. Birthplace: Kishinev, Moldova. Profession: Serial entrepreneur. Organization: Maler Group. Title: Founder. Significant other: Deena Vashovsky.
Current project: Working on new startup, philanthropy, mentorship. Latest contribution to others: I spend a substantial amount of my time involved in charity work and mentoring the next generation. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Transitioning from an 80-hour workweek to a flexible schedule. Hobbies: Collecting art, skiing, working out, investing. Recent travel or adventure: Skiing in Switzerland. Recently viewed and recommended: Yellowstone, though my favorite film franchise of all time is the Godfather. Recent unique acquisition: At age 52, my first custom-tailored suit and shirt.
Personality profile: First in, last out. Focused. Lead by example. Give more than you take. Moral compass: Go with your gut and always do the right thing. Help those who can’t help themselves. What is your greatest joy? Time with family. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Emergency medicine. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Charity, purchasing art. What is at the top of your bucket list? Fly into outer orbit. What is your go-to workout? 40 minutes of weight training, followed by 30 minutes of elliptical. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? A nice hotel, a fun car to drive, a boat ride and great meals.
What movie have you repeatedly watched? The Godfather. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? A photo of Fred, my first dog. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My wife. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Wake early, work hard. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Trust, but verify. What is your favorite app? ChatGPT. What company or organization do you most admire? Tesla and SpaceX.
What change would you like to see in the world?
Reduction in carbon emissions and transition to electric vehicle usage.
What message do you want to send out into the world? Innovate, innovate, innovate. What widely held belief do you reject? I can be more productive at home than in the office. What mega-trend most excites you? Using AI to drive advances in automation.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? The Hard-Working Kid from Brooklyn. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? Abraham Lincoln. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? An entrepreneur. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Family photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my family. What advice would you give your younger self? Get up earlier, work harder. You can sleep when you get older. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? The time spent with my father prior to his passing.
Personal mission: Working hard, spending time with my family, giving generously to charity. Favorite quote: “What does a cow give? A cow gives you sh*t. Milk, you have to take.”
