The Happy Cog team is composed of many different people with unique backgrounds, experiences, and skills. In this “Getting to Know” series, we hope to let our readers get to know the smart and talented people behind the work. From what they do outside of their day jobs to their tastes in music to what inspires them, these posts offer a little glimpse into the lives and personalities of our amazing team members.
Meet Amanda: Full Charge Bookkeeper – Mother, Numbers Girl, Avocado Enthusiast
Q: Welcome to Happy Cog, Amanda! We’re thrilled to have you join us. Where are you from and where are you currently located? What do you love most about where you reside?
A: Super excited to be working with everyone at Happy Cog! I am from New York City, born and raised. As much as I enjoy venturing outside of the city, there’s no place like the Big Apple. What I love most about New York are the endless opportunities to connect with people from all parts of the world: the art scene, the culture, and all of the creativity that fills our streets. There’s truly never a dull moment here in NYC.
What I love most about New York are the endless opportunities to connect with people from all parts of the world.
Q: What led you to Happy Cog? What were you doing before you joined us?
A: Before Happy Cog, I was working for a public relations consulting firm that managed the marketing and advertising needs for high-end fashion brands. I was a part of their finance team that managed their Fashion Week budgets. What led me to Happy Cog was a great opportunity to work alongside upper management and help with their financial needs. 
Q: What do you do here and what are you most looking forward to in your role?
A: At HC, I am the Full Charge Bookkeeper, which means I work alongside our Project Managers to help manage all things billable; work with upper management on financial reporting and providing a clear view of where we are financially; collaborate with HR on payroll and benefits; and, essentially, be the go-to person for all things finance. What I look forward to most is working closely with everyone and learning more about all of our amazing projects.
Q: What are you currently reading/watching?
A: Currently reading (or at least I like to tell myself I will finish) Equality and Efficiency: The Big Tradeoff by Arthur M. Okun. I am also watching The Circle on Netflix and The Voice.
Q: What’s your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why?
A: My favorite place to travel to is Hawaii. As much as I am a city girl, my goal is to move to Hawaii. I love the waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, culture, and the weather.
You’ve got this, don’t stress.
Q: What inspires you? 
A: These days, inspiration comes in many forms. However, my girls are what inspire me daily. It’s truly amazing how inspiration can spark when sharing those day-to-day moments with your kids. Your life shifts differently when you have little ones who depend on you.
Q: You’re in charge of the office playlist. What are you playing?
A: “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown. Go watch the current Tik Tok trends using this song for a good laugh.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A: I enjoy being with family, traveling, writing poetry, painting, and doing anything that sparks my creativity.
Q: Looking back, what do you wish your younger self knew that you now know?
A: You’ve got this, don’t stress.