The zero-budget marketing approach — My business partner and I both grew up in small towns. But when we started our consulting practice in 1992, we had big city dreams. We aspired to work with the best companies. …

Or should we consider speed limits, guardrails, and restrictions on size? — The NFL is the most successful sports league in history, but how did a relatively obscure sport — born in Ohio in the 1920's — turn into a cultural and financial powerhouse? In one word: Parity. Although it was a long journey of experimentation, the governing body of the NFL…

DTC companies are turning to physical retail in an attempt to prove they are more than just hype — “They make your forehead look big,” my straight-shooting wife belted out with a chuckle. “Okay…” I said, slightly offended. “How about these glasses?” hoping for a more confidence-building response. “Now you look like that televangelist preacher from the 90s, Jim Baker,” she replied. “I think we’re done here,” I said…

How to build a bootstrap marketing approach with limited resources — Starting a business is akin to trying to build a utopian colony in the middle of the jungle. …

How the “cat turd incident” catapulted my career to the top — “Can I ask a favor, Kevin?” Hugh requested. “Would you mind giving us a tour of your place?” It’s not every day two mega-successful businessmen ask to see where you live. Let alone two of the most prominent bankers in the nation. But that’s precisely the predicament I found myself…

It ain’t over until the brave man comes out of the dirty canal with your Chopper — There’s not an object that turns my crank more than the 1970s versions of the Raleigh Chopper bicycle, and I was fortunate enough to get a rare blue one for my birthday gift as a kid. Inspired by dragsters, beach buggies, “chopped” motorcycles, and the cultural influences of movies like…

Are you living your life, or the life others have planned for you? — Have you ever made a life-changing decision that went against the wishes of your family, friends, and culture? One that entailed significant risks and loss of future opportunities? Many years ago, I made the radical decision to move from the fertile ground of my southern hometown to start an entirely…

How one man’s relentless obsession gave his life meaning, purpose, and direction, and perhaps yours too — Part 1: A life in surround sound Whenever Lester called his girlfriend from the road, she could instantly tell if he was in an office, someone’s house, a bar, or a phone booth. Even when he tried to disguise his whereabouts, she could somehow picture his environment. “But how did she figure it out so quickly?” he…

Why we need meaningful myths more than we realize — According to my “social media plan,” I should be posting another article this week about how to attract customers, influence their behavior, and make your business more successful. …