That foreboding day has returned – along with the rush for new shoes, haircuts, backpacks, and supplies. Over 78 million students are headed to the classroom, with a reported 2.5% suffering from Didaskaleinophobia, the fear of going back to school. Yes, it’s real. Remember the feeling the night before the first day of school? Excitement mixed...Read More

In 1952, advertising sage Leo Burnett proclaimed “what helps people, helps business.” This credo is at the core of socially-conscious companies that wisely include customers in promotions and marketing. Recently, I saw a commercial for Firehouse Subs, a national chain that wears its corporate culture on its sleeve. Their mission: a commitment to flavorful food, heartfelt service, and...Read More

Summer has arrived and July 4th falls on a Wednesday. This week I’ve heard business owners say, almost apologetically, “I’m taking vacation the week of July 4th  – it’s just four days off that way.” American entrepreneurs and business-owners use just 25% of their vacation days, and worse yet, 42% don’t take any vacation at all. Sadly, of those who take a...Read More