The Rules

Our clients engage me because I am committed to showing them what’s new, what’s next, what’s important, and what’s the truth. People do not hire me to tell them what they necessarily want to hear.

I am allied with my clients. I inspire them to think bigger and be more successful (even if I have to drag them kicking and screaming).

I have a relentless desire to pursue novelty in what I do and how I do it. This keeps things lively and interesting.

IMHO, Conventional Wisdom is neither conventional, nor is it wisdom, and Common Sense is rarely Common Practice. If leaders in our industry are more interested in protecting Status Quo, than in taking the hard road, I will not hesitate to stand up and take the unpopular stance. I have an edge.

My family is more important than you and I expect your family to be more important than me. This means there may be times where we must choose between work and family.

Let’s choose family.

I do not do RFPs.

I do not do legal mumbo-jumbo.

I am not working for you. I am working with you, therefore we treat each other equally and with respect. If you call or email, for example, you expect a timely response. You will get it. I expect the same treatment in return.

I do not wear a tie.(Granted this rule is old, but just incase, I’m leaving it in.)

I am not cheap. My fees are neither based on time nor travel. They are based on the ultimate value of my participation, as well as my own unique experiences (professional and personal), and education. If you are looking for cheap, we are happy to suggest less experienced speakers and consultants.

I don’t fly coach. In the years since airlines started frequent flyer programs, I have accumulated 6,158,199 miles on American Airlines alone (as of 09/01/2019). This is over 12,300 hours in the air, which does not include time on the ground, delayed or cancelled flights, time in the airports, or travel to and from the airports. In order for me to be fully productive, physically rested, and mentally fresh for you, I fly first class. 90% of the time I don’t need to buy first class tickets. I purchase upgrade coupons, which are included in my expense invoice.