As the Head of Madison Reed, I Start My Day Connected and Conclude It with a Clean Inbox

My typical day as a CEO is demanding; it kicks off early with physical activity, reflection time, and a robust coffee before diving into a string of meetings.

I follow a strict regimen in both my work habits and communication methods, yet I still carve out moments for contemplation and enjoying the outdoors, especially towards the week's end.

Waking Up Early: The Start of My Day

My daily routine, including weekends, begins between 5:30 and 6 a.m. My first task is to review my phone to check for any pressing issues that might have arisen overnight due to my Pacific Time Zone locality.

Having a spouse who is both a talented artist and a skilled chef means I enjoy a homemade dinner most nights. This privilege leads me to weigh myself every morning before engaging in any activity, assisted by my Oura Ring which tracks my sleep and stress.

Morning Workout Routine

About 45 minutes post-wake-up, I engage in a home workout that involves 30 minutes on my Peloton for cardio, followed by 15 minutes of resistance training using Tonal equipment, five days per week.

A brief session of meditation using a dedicated app helps me center myself before I start my day fully.

Office Setup and Initial Task of the Day

By 7:15 a.m., I've completed my morning routine and connect with nature in my backyard office pod, which offers a serene environment ideal for focus, before heading to work.

On location, I prepare my preferred coffee mix and commence work where a meticulously planned schedule awaits.

Efficiently Packed Meetings Till Noon

My morning is packed with continuous meetings, incorporating routine one-on-one sessions with direct subordinates. These are non-negotiable slots, organizing all other obligations around them.

My personal assistant, Christina, ensures my schedule runs smoothly. We coordinate extensively to manage future activities as well.

In addition to internal discussions, my agenda frequently involves guiding aspiring women investors and handling board responsibilities.

Evaluating New Hires

Before a firm employment proposal is extended to new potential hires for critical roles, I dedicate a quarter-hour to ascertain their cultural compatibility with the company.

I query about past challenges and the lessons learned, seeking candidates who demonstrate tenacity, integrity, empathy, and enthusiasm.

A Well-Deserved Lunch Break

Lunchtimes provide a chance to reset; I focus on high-protein, satisfying meals, often enjoying cottage cheese with a poached egg and toast. Indulging occasionally with a mini Coke Zero helps me keep energy levels up.

Strategic Time for Thought in the Afternoon

Although my days are densely scheduled, I strive to secure time blocks for deep thinking, primarily safeguarding Friday afternoons for thoughtful reflection.

Taking solo excursions on my boat refines my ideas and keeps my creativity fresh without the distraction of conversations.

Strategies for Communication

Maintaining zero unread emails and quick communication responses are critical parts of my process, relying on direct calls when necessary to foster genuine connections.

This connectivity is vital as I invest personally and emotionally into my work, shared by over 1,100 team members.

Evening Relaxation and Reflection

Post-work rituals revolve around sports viewing and a valued dinner 'roses and thorns' tradition with my family, exchanging daily highlights and challenges over a meal.

Relaxation continues with entertainment shared with my family, concluding with a restful sleep, supported by modern sleep aids.