People 12/8

Founder Rosemary Stimola becomes CEO, continuing to oversee her clients and the agency. Adriana Stimola succeeds her as president, serving her own clients and managing the business.

Peter Ryan will become chief financial officer.

Erica Rand Silverman becomes vice president of children’s publishing, representing clients and providing guidance and strategic growth.

Rights director Allison Hellegers is also promoted to senior agent.

“With the expansion of the Studio in the last decade, it’s time to grow into a new leadership structure,” Rosemary said in an announcement. “Together, Adriana and Erica have expertise that span multiple facets and genres of the industry, which makes it an exciting next chapter for us all.”

Since general-purpose chatbots are not good at giving advice, author Mark Manson has launched his own self-help AI tool, called Purpose. “The platform’s advanced AI architecture, rich memory systems, and evidence-backed psychological frameworks deliver rapid personalized insights about users’ core values and behavioral patterns. Every interaction adapts to the user’s unique circumstances and communication style, delivering directional feedback optimized for personal growth rather than generic validation or one-size-fits-all advice,” a release states.

“I’ve spent two decades helping people identify what really matters to them and take the necessary steps toward living complete, fulfilling lives,” Manson said. “Purpose takes that same actionable approach and meets the new generation of young adults where they are. It’s not another framework to follow, but an AI platform that combines proven psychological methods with genuine challenge to help you discover your own path and actually follow through.”

Hong Zhou has joined as vice president, product management. He was previously senior director of AI product & innovation at Wiley.