I was on a flight from Santa Rosa last week and had the opportunity to sit next to an interesting man. And while I learned quite a good deal from him, our encounter had an auspicious beginning. Trying to make best use of my time on the flight to keep up with the usual hectic business day, I went to launch my computer to get some work done. However, I couldn’t log onto the in-flight Wi-Fi, no matter what I tried. After multiple attempts and possibly a little frustration on my part, the man sitting next to me, David, looked […]

More than 20 years ago, I met this post production color correction artist who became a beloved, lifelong client. Our meeting also signaled a golden opportunity that helped further my budding career. I was watching a movie one night, not paying full attention as I thought about how I could prospect in a market that was underserved. (Yes, I even thought about work during my downtime at night.) I had been in the business for a little over three years at that point. I’d had some success but felt unchallenged and unfulfilled calling on the same old list of people: […]

I was having lunch today with one of my biggest clients, who’s also a close personal friend. He’s someone that I share things with – what’s going on in my business or life, and I always appreciate his counsel. Today, while at lunch, I shared some of the challenges I’ve had this year and over the last couple of years. I talked about my obstacles, stumbling blocks, and setbacks, both personal, professional, and financial. When I was done speaking, he took a pause, then looked me in the eyes and simply said, “Move on.” His blunt and concise response took […]

For the last week, I’ve driving up the California coast with my wife and two children. We started in Dana Point and, as of this morning, are in Carmel by the Sea. We’re on to Monterey. Then, ending in Calistoga/Napa for a few days before heading home. This has been an interesting week to say the least. What have I learned? Quite a lot actually, but I’ll narrow it down to these 10 things. First off, I’ve learned that I can actually spend this amount of time with my family! When cell reception and wi-fi are unavailable for hours, I […]

My family and I have decided to relocate to Arizona. The reasons are many, most of which are personal. This week, I was getting my son in the car, about to head to my daughter’s softball practice. One of our neighbors, Ben, approached me. I can’t say that we know each other very well, but he’s always very cordial, and they seem to be a nice family. Ben walked up and said, “So, you are doing it, huh?” “Yes,” I replied. “For us, it’s the right move and something that we need to do for our family.” “You’re doing the right thing,” […]

Man, I must be so important. Man, you must be so important! I mean, we both must be so important, right? With our phones at our ears 24/7?! We even put our cell phones right on the table during meals, at the ready like wild west gunslingers at high noon, or Pavlovian dogs salivating for the next call, text, or email. What’s so important that we need to be connected to our phones even during time with family? Are we expecting the White House to call us for guidance in handling the Ukraine/Russia conflict? Is Elon Musk going to check […]

Over the last week, I was on vacation with my family – experiencing my very first week as a member of the 45-year-old club. Through it all, I can’t help but think just how lucky I am – and how lucky I’ve been throughout my life. Sure, there have been ups and downs, but the overwhelming feeling that permeates my thoughts are those of gratitude. Why it takes vacation or time away to realize that, I don’t know. Maybe it’s having time and space to be able to reflect or being outside of my normal routine that allows me to […]

As we get closer to closing out the first quarter of 2022, I thought it was a good time to reflect on the year – what has gone well and what still needs to be worked on. The bad news is that I’m definitely off course and still have a lot of ground to make up. But the good news? It’s up to me to rip up my map and create a new one. Let me explain: Every year I write up a business plan. However, this guiding document is never just about business. My detailed plan also covers my goals and […]

The phone rang and I picked it up. It was my longtime client, James. “How are things going with business and in your world?”  I asked.  “I made more money than I ever thought I would have last year,” James replied. “And this year will be the same. Covid helped save our business. We are thriving. I am in escrow on another piece of real estate in Mammoth.”  “Wow, man, that is awesome,” I said. “Things sound like they are really going well.” “Yes, for sure on the business side, but…I may have to put Jesse into a home,” he said almost apologetically, his […]

I was on a plane the other day and happened to read something that resonated with me… “Remember when you go into the world to keep your eyes and ears wide open and be kind. Love one another. Take care of each other. Tell the truth and always do your best. Listen to the big people and the little people. Explore new paths and have fun. Know that you are loved like crazy. Give thanks for all your blessings. Above all else, love and you will do wonderful things in this world.”  -Poet Rebecca Puig I got a lot out […]