The Globe 100: The best of Massachusetts Business, 2009

Bright Ideas

How the creative spirit thrives in challenging times

Executive Shuffle

En route to China or emerging markets in South America, Michael Prince can be found plugged into his MP3 player. "The songs help me get through an exhaustive travel schedule that takes me around the globe," says Prince, chief financial officer of the $2 billion footwear maker Converse, based in North Andover. Like other executives, he turns to music to help ease the anxiety of a dog-eat-dog corporate world. "With the global economy facing its toughest challenge in decades, if not ever, having a personal outlet to relieve stress and take your mind off everyday life is critical to keeping your sanity and staying focused," says Prince

— Cindy Atoji Keene

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