Happy Labor Day

Celebrating Labor Day: Honoring the American Worker As we enter Labor Day, it’s important to take a moment to celebrate the American worker and the unique spirit of hard work that has been the backbone of our nation. From the earliest days of our country’s history, workers have prided themselves on their ability to get …

Networking

Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or even connecting on LinkedIn (as much as I value the platform!) It’s about building real rapport. One of the most important aspects of networking is the work that takes place BEFORE you go to an event or meet someone. Research is key … before meeting new people, …

Your Business Must Make You Better

If your business doesn’t make you a better person, why do it? Every day, I strive to make my business better, and in turn, it makes me better. By focusing daily on my business agenda, I aim to sharpen my mind and skill set and push towards quality in both my professional and personal life. …

Juneteenth

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a day of immense significance and reflection. As an African American entrepreneur, Juneteenth holds a special place in my heart. It marks the end of a dark chapter in American history—slavery—which was a profound stain upon our nation’s social, emotional and economic fabric. Yet, it also stands as a testament to …

Private Company Governance Summit

Had an enlightening time at the recent annual Private Company Governance Summit in Arlington, VA. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet talented and accomplished individuals serving on the Boards of private and family-owned companies. I met the President & CEO, of the Private Directors Association®, of which I am a member, Debra McGuire, FASAE, …

I’ve Been Scammed!

I’ve been scammed! I ordered a garment/duffle bag online from a company that posted a video ad on FB. This bag seemed perfect — it had a place for everything: a suit, clothes, even a compartment for shoes. It also featured wheels and a hideaway handle for easy transport. And it was on sale for …

My Parents

Throughout my career, from holding public office to embarking on my entrepreneurial journey, humility has always been a virtue I’ve tried to manifest in my life. This trait, deeply ingrained by my parents’ remarkable lives, has influenced not just who I am, but how I lead. Both of my parents overcame modest beginnings to achieve …

What have you done for someone else today?

In high school, a teacher told us this story, whose truthfulness resonates with me to this day. Perhaps you have heard it also. A man dies and is given a tour of Heaven and Hell to see where he might choose to reside for eternity. In Hell, multitudes are gathered around tables loaded with mountains …

Me & My Guitar

During my twelve years as an elected County Commissioner, the most unusual thing I ever did at one of our public meetings was to unexpectedly play my guitar … and sing! This was pretty much on a dare by one of the Department Heads. I accepted the challenge! This unannounced performance, in front of the …

What Is Your “Why” for Business

Have you ever seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul in a funeral procession? Most likely not. This image starkly reminds us: You can’t take it with you. It puts everything into perspective—our work, our lives, our relationships, and our goals and values while we are still “on this side of the dirt.” So, why are …