Scott Robinson - A Friend to Many

In place of my weekly "Cool Things My Friends Do" blog post, this week I am remembering a friend who passed away unexpectedly.

The Austin community was shocked and saddened this week by the unexpected death of Scott Robinson.  He was 41 years old.  This father of two young children (he leaves behind a son and a daughter, twins, age 8) was a tireless supporter of the Austin Entrepreneurial Community.  

It was nearly  two and a half years ago when I first met Scott.  You could not miss him at a networking event, as he had to be 6'4 (maybe taller), and was always very well dressed.  Scott took a sincere interest in others that instantly made people feel as if they were his long lost friend.  Every time I would see Scott he would have an idea of somebody I should meet.  He was all about helping others discover the connections that could lead to mutually beneficial success.  And he was not just an idea guy, he was a doer.... as he always followed up with an email making the introductions between people.

I would run into Scott regularly around town about once a week, and we were part of an occasional business networking group that met for lunch semi-regularly.  He was always excited about a project he was working on (TEDxAustin Youth, StartUp America, RISE Austin, or helping promote The Wire) to help make Austin a better place.  His smile was contagious, and he always was supportive of the causes of those around him.

The folks at Silicon Hills News wrote a wonderful tribute to the memory of Scott Robinson (link to article http://www.siliconhillsnews.com/2013/09/04/in-memory-of-scott-robinson-a-huge-supporter-of-austins-tech-industry/).  Take a minute to read what they said, but also view the comments section, as so many people added their thoughts about this man who was a real "giver".  

Scott Robinson was one of the good guys.  He will be missed.

To honor Scott there is a scholarship set up for his children ("The James Scott Robinson Memorial Fund" through Wells Fargo Bank). 

 In addition to making a donation, I suggest those who knew him (and others) should deliberately seek out a way to help another person find success.  Make an introduction between two people, or sit down with someone to help them brainstorm their next project.  When you do that, think of Scott.... I bet he would like knowing that he inspired us all to lend a hand and be better "givers".

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Jason Alba - 51 Alternatives To A Real Job

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My friend Jason Alba was laid off from a successful IT career in 2006.  What followed is a familiar story of a rough road to finding a new job.  Along the way he created JibberJobber.com, and has never returned to "Corporate America".

Jason has just released his third book (he is famous for his first, "I'm on LinkedIn... Now What?"). This new release is "51 Alternatives To A Real Job".  In this book her chronicles the stories of 51 people who have carved out their own answers to a career.  These include Babysitter, Event Planner, Home Stager, Personal Trainer, Leather Vinyl Doctor, and the Founder/Inventor of Ooh La Bra (which is my favorite story in the book, and I will tell you why down the page).

Jason has spent years traveling around the U.S. speaking to unemployed professionals and executives for a eight years.  In his travels he was always speaking to highly talented people, but many of them had been out of work for long periods of time and some were losing hope.  As he chatted with people, either at the event where he spoke or in local coffee shops, he started to realize that their was power in what he was learning from people who were finding alternative ways to earn money and get back into the workforce.  BOOM, the idea for this book was born.

One of the stories he tells in the book is about Lisa Angelos McKenzie, the founder of Ooh La Bra.  What is cool is that he discovered Lisa, and her story, by reading about her on MY blog.  I have written about Lisa's entrepreneurial journey twice - including her being featured on a "Cool Things My Friends Do" post in December 2012.  I find it extra cool that one of my friends writes about another one of my friends in his book.... and they connected from reading my blog!

"51 Alternatives to A Real Job" is currently available on Kindle (via Amazon.com) for $9.99, and is available for order on Jason's website in paperback for $19.99.  

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Today Show's Biggest Fan Contest Winners

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.



This year's winner of the Today Show's Biggest Fan Contest is my friend Kathy Mayer and her twin daughters Sarah and Natalie.  The three submitted a video with a song they wrote and performed about why they should be selected as the winners.  They were chosen and flown to New York City to appear on the Today Show and see the One Direction concert (with VIP seats and a chance to meet the band) in Rockefeller Center Plaza.

A record crowd of over 18,000 fans (mostly screaming teenage girls) crowded the streets around the NBC studio to view the concert.  I saw on Facebook that they were in New York to be on the Today Show, but was not sure why, so I tuned in to find out.  Wow, that was really cool.  Their family did a great job of representing all of Austin (and I am sure all the girl's friends were jealous seeing them hug the guys from One Direction just before the group took the stage).

People often roll their eyes at the thought of entering contests, thinking they have no chance of wining.  But Kathy and her kids are a great example that someone will win.... thus, you might as well give it a try.  If you want something in this world you are better off trying than sitting on the sidelines.

This is cool.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Art Markman - Director, University of Texas HDO

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

This week I had coffee with my new friend, Art Markman.  Art is the director of a new type of executive education program at the University of Texas at Austin. The Human Dimensions of Organizations program is focused on understanding the people who drive today's global marketplace and offers two types of innovative education opportunities:

The HDO's Master of Arts degree was created for leaders in the business and nonprofit sectors searching for a more comprehensive understanding of how human behavior and experience affects the global marketplace.

One-day Professional Seminars allow businesses, nonprofits, and individuals the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of particular subjects often unavailable in an executive-friendly format.

Next week they kick off their first class of graduate students.  It is a very cool program, and after spending time on their website I am interested in enrolling in several of their one day seminars (the dates of these upcoming programs were not published when I wrote this post).  Many of their topics are complimentary to what I already believe about human engagement, and I am excited to have the opportunity to learn academic specifics from the amazing professors in this program.

This HDO brings together some of UT Austin’s finest researchers in the Humanities and the Social and Behavioral Sciences with an interest in educating the rising generation of leaders in the business and nonprofit communities.

Art is also a professor of psychology & marketing at UT and an active business consultant, speaker, and author.  He proclaims himself a "collector of people", and from the moment we met it was clear that he is someone who understands the power of relationships and actively promotes the success of those in his network.  

I look forward to seeing his new program expand, as I am confident that many professionals in Austin (and beyond) will benefit from this educational opportunity.  Check it out!

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Cheers to NSA XY

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the National Speakers Association Annual Convention.  This was the 5th year I have participated in this event, and I credit NSA with much of my success in the speaking business.  It is not so much the organization, as it is the cool people I have come to call my friends.  These people inspire me, share ideas, refer business, and lead by example on how to find your way in this quirky industry.

The first time I attended an NSA Conference I knew nobody.  I arrived at the hotel to find over 1000 speakers, and being new to the business, I felt lost in the crowd.  While there was a "First Timers Reception", there was too much going on for me to grasp (and I teach people how to connect at events!).  Not that the group was any more "cliquey" than other associations, I just felt as though I was not included.

That first day I encountered a group called NSA XY.  This was a group of speakers my age and younger who had formed a peer community for those in Generations X and Y (born 1964 or later).  While some of these "younger" speakers had been in the business for decades (I wish I had begun my speaking career in my 20's), others were newer to the profession (like me).  They were welcoming and instantly I began developing connections that today are some of my most important friendships.

Too often associations can seem overwhelming by their size.  As groups grow, they can lose that family feeling that is part of why people stay involved in organizations.  Creating peer communities allows people to have something tangible.  When members feel connected, they are more likely to stay engaged and give back to the organization.  What is exciting is to see so many of my friends now taking leadership roles in the greater organization.

While I enjoy all the benefits of my NSA membership, my involvement in NSA XY has been the reason I stay active and have never missed an annual convention.  This year I had the honor of being asked to serve on the XY Board, and I have attended my first NSA XY Meet Up in Chicago (informal regional gatherings of peer who discuss important topics in a day-long facilitated discussion format).  I have also joined a formal Mastermind Group that was created with some of my XY peers (although this mastermind is not only comprised of XY folks).  The XY group also hosts educational Google + Hangouts twice a month where we discuss industry topics (these are open to all NSA Members, and are recorded for those who want to view them later.... as the group is not designed to be exclusive, but rather as a peer group that is in full support of the greater organization).  

My "Cool Things My Friends Do" blog post this week is dedicated to my peers in NSA XY who all do such cool things in their careers and who have gone out of their way to help me find a home inside this large and diverse association. I have seen many of them present live (when any of them are in Austin, TX it is my goal to get to their presentation if I am in town) and I try to refer them to meeting planners who are seeking speakers on any variety of topics. 

Few people outside the meetings industry realize that the business of speaking is made up of amazing professionals who are extremely dedicated to having positive impacts on the lives of their audiences.  I applaud these friends who have helped me learn and grow in this business.... and I thank them for helping me maximize my membership in the National Speakers Association.

If you belong to any industry association, find your "warm nest of friends".  Creating meaningful connections with your peers will have a positive impact on your career.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Ruby Newell-Legner To Lead National Speakers Association in 2015

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

I spent much of this week attending the National Speakers Association Annual Convention.  This event has become an important stop each year in the pursuit of growing my speaking business.  The event is amazing, as it pulls together over 1000 professional speakers who share best practices and the stories of the road to success.  It is a heavy dose of learning, fun, late nights with friends, seeing the best presenters in the world, and the chance to build relationships with others who work in the crazy (but wonderful) speaking business.

On Tuesday it was announced that Ruby Newell-Legner would become the new vice president on the NSA board of directors.  She has been an active member of the board for several years, but this achievement puts her on the track to be president of NSA in 2015-2016.  She will spend the next two years preparing to lead the dynamic and ever changing organization.

Ruby is a wonderful person.  While I do not know her well, she has always been gracious and giving.  She has built a powerful business specializing in customer service, and she has an amazing list of clients who rave about her work.  When you visit her website you are greeted by the words "Great Customer Service Starts with Giving your Employees the Skills they Need to Succeed", and Ruby is an expert in educating and motivating teams.

I am excited for her and the organization. I know that her leadership will have a huge impact on the future of the industry.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Hayley Foster - The Short Talk Expert

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My friend Hayley Foster is known as "The Short Talk Expert". She has been speaking, training and consulting for over 30 years, and now trains speakers (both professional speakers and others) in how to properly craft shorter format presentations.  She has been working with the TEDx speakers and program organizers since the early days, as she was one of the organizers of the first TEDxNASA in November 2009 (which was one of the first ever TEDx Events).

Hayley has a particular expertise in the art of the TED Style Talk. Her unique background together with her TEDx experience resulted in the creation of a proprietary process for crafting original, passionate core messages with a wide variety of presenters, from teen novices to world-renowned experts. Hayley has been the designated Speaker Coach for all six TEDxNASA events, as well as having worked with speakers for many other presentations. She has coached over 250 TEDx speakers to date (including over 100 professional speakers).

This week Hayley is releasing a new mini-book (Minibuk) called "Don't Tank Your TED Talk: 12 Mistakes Professional Speakers Make".  The book is written for the experienced speaker who may mistakenly think their TED presentation is just a shorter version of their regular "shtick".  However, that can be a big mistake, as a TED Talk is more than an 18 minute (or shorter) presentation, and a speaker trying to get all their material into that format can easily flop.

Her book is ready for sneak preview premier at the 2013 National Speakers Association Annual Conference (which kicks off TODAY). If you are attending, you can find Hayley and talk to her about her new book (she might even have a copy or two with her!).  Or you can send her an email minibuk1@shorttalkexpert.com  for more information.

The book will soon be available for purchase on her website at http://www.shorttalkexpert.com/minibuk1 on August 1, 2013.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Kate Celebrates National Ice Cream Month

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

(Last week I highlighted my eldest daughter in the "Cool Things My Friends Do" post, and so this week the younger kid is the star of the show!)

Today is National Ice Cream Day.  Yes, there is a day for everything.  Some of these honored topics are lame, but... National Ice Cream Day is a great idea.  This is a reason to celebrate in our family (we like us some ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato).

My friend Leslie recently blogged a challenge to her readers to try a new flavor of ice cream each day in July to celebrate the month long celebration for this cold delicious treat.  Her blog post was addressed directly to my youngest daughter (true... her post beings "Dear Kate"), who from the age of three has had the odd habit of always trying new flavors when ordering ice cream.  

(I was not a fan of the kids having dessert every day for a month, so my family pledged an every-other day commitment to sample new flavors in July).

When Kate was a toddler it was fascinating to see her look past the chocolate or vanilla and seek out the most bizarre choices.  Sometimes she liked them, others not so much, but Kate has always wanted to try something different and has a brave side to her that is willing to experiment.  Never the same ice cream twice was her early motto.

Some kids always choose Cookies and Cream... but this kid seeks out variety.  She is even willing to try the taster spoon of flavors other 11-year-olds would never sample.  Yes, this included a recent sample of "Roasted Beet and Fresh Mint Ice Cream" (although not what she selected for her cone!).

Nowadays she does have some favorites, but she still interested in what else is out there.

So far this month she has sampled ten (taster spoons, but some get selected for the full serving):

• Amaretto
• Roasted Beet and Fresh Mint
• Rainbow Cream
• Caramel Corn
• Dill Pickle (this was actually a snow cone, not ice cream)
• Goat Cheese Thyme and Honey
• Fried Chicken with Waffles
• Butter Beer
• Peanut Butter
• Double Dark Chocolate

And there are still 12 days to go in July.  I am surprised by the concoctions that ice cream parlors dream up, but it has been fun to seek out the weird ones.  

I admire the adventurous spirit that is present in Kate.  I hope that her willingness to try new things stays with her throughout her life, as there are so many cool things out there that she can experience.  I see great success ahead for a kid who will try "beet" flavored ice cream.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Jax at Stanford

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

(Can my kid be the subject of "Cool Things My Friends Do"?  Ummmm, it is my blog, so I get to select anyone I want to write about for these Friday posts!!!  And I do think this is way cool...).

Today completes three weeks we have been without our 16-year-old kid in the house (she gets home in just a few hours).  Earlier this year Jackie applied for, and was accepted to, a summer program for high school students to study Topics in Business and Entrepreneurship at Stanford University in California (The Education Program for Gifted Youth, EPGY, Summer Institutes offers a variety of academic topics, but business is her subject of interest).

Wow, what a cool opportunity for her!!!  But were we ready to have her gone for that long?  Was it worth the money?  Could we make it all happen around other summer commitments for vacations, dance camps, etc...?  The answer was yes.

While she had never been away from home for any extended period of time, she was excited to go off to a college environment, if even for a short period of time.  I was nervous about it, but she was ready.  

I can tell from our conversations that this was a great experience, and she loved both the academic and social aspects of the program.  It was a good peek into the future to be living on a college campus (in a sorority house) and being taught by college professors .   And I know from having lived in Northern California that Stanford is amazing...and getting out of the Texas heat in July is always a good thing!

I was jealous of the all that she was learning (I want to take a class at Stanford) and the great fun she was having with the other kids in the program.  Everyday she seemed to be fully engaged in something.  

While in the Bay Area she also had a chance to visit with her grandparents (my dad is 98, so he cannot travel to visit us in Texas anymore - thus a visit with him was extra special), two of her uncles (my brothers), some of her cousins and her god-father (and his family). 

This was a "cool thing" for her and I can tell that she does not want to come home.  I am sure she wishes she was leaving for college this year, not having two more years of high school.  But I am confident that this program will have a positive impact on her future. 

I am proud of her for how hard she works in everything she does and I am excited to hear all the details of this adventure. 

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Amber Fogarty - SOS Leadership Institute

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My friend Amber Moyer Fogarty is one busy lady.  Besides being married and chasing two young children, she and her family just returned from an extended vacation to Ireland.  They spent several weeks on the Emerald Isle visiting her husband's family (he was born in Ireland).  To follow the trip on Facebook was very cool, as Ireland is among the top places I have ever been on earth.  It must have been amazing to be there with family!

She is also teaching classes as an adjunct instructor at St Edward's University in the School of Management and Business and the New College Program.  Her courses include: Business Communication, Marketing Communications, Business and Professional Speaking, and Technical and Business Writing.  She works hard for her students, and those who take her classes are thrilled with what they learn (I have spoken for her students, and know how much they respect her as a teacher).

And on top of all that she is one of the partners in the SOS Leadership Institute where she serves as the  Chief People Officer. In this capacity, she is responsible for overseeing the organization’s development strategy. She is committed to developing leaders that make a difference with a focus on discovering how to live a life of significance!

She also runs the SOS Leadership Gr8 Women Leaders Program, which is a year-long program designed for professional women who are committed to leadership growth and goal achievement. This elite group of like-minded women gathers monthly for a facilitated, interactive workshop that focuses on leadership development, learning, and accountability. Each leader also commits to monthly one-on-one coaching with an SOS Leadership Coach. The SOS Gr8 Women Leaders Program provides a unique environment where women can brainstorm solutions to the challenges they are facing, while motivating themselves and each other to reach their full potential.

Program Benefits:

• Small group setting with a strong support system for accountability and continuous leadership development
• Personal coaching focused on your individual leadership style
• A thought-provoking program curriculum that is yours to keep
• A 50+ page leadership assessment that helps you to understand your strengths, unique leadership style, and key motivators
• Monthly meetings held in Austin, Texas

(The next program begins August 9, 2013.  For more information or to schedule an appointment to discuss your participation in the next SOS Gr8 Women Leaders group, email Amber Fogarty - afogarty@sosleadership.com or call 512-992-2985).

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Ken Harris Rides His Bike 3872 Miles To Raise Money for Parkinson's Research

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My friend Ken Harris is currently on a cross country 52-Day bike ride from San Francisco, CA to Portsmouth, NH. Oh, did I mention he is 70 years old? Yeah, I am lucky to run a 5K once a year, and Ken is peddling across the whole United States (3872 Miles) in less than 2 months.

This has been on his bucket list for many years. He is always on the go with some activity....He travels the world, skis, camps, hikes, and does all sorts of activities to keep very young at heart. When the opportunity came up to do this ride he decided to go for it. It has been great fun to follow his adventure on Facebook and on the blog of his fellow rider John Aylward.

Today was Day 27 and they are currently in Kansas.

Part of his journey is to raise money for the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's Disease. Both his mother and brother are afflicted with Parkinson's and this is a cause that matters to Ken's family. He has currently raised $4470.00, on a goal of $5000.00 (soooo close!! - jump over and make a small donation if you feel so inspired).

I look forward to hearing all about Ken's adventure when he gets back to Austin in August. In the meantime... Happy peddling.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Neen James - Folding Time

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

One of the best "Productivity Speakers" and "Thought Leaders", Neen James, has done it again. She has just released Folding Time, a gripping book on the topic of "PRODUCTIVITY".  There are lots of people out there who teach on this topic, but if you have never seen Neen James present at a conference, you are missing out.  She is passionate and dedicated to serving audiences of all sizes.  She is a dynamic speaker who helps impact the experience for all in attendance at association and corporate events in the United States and around the world (Neen lives in the Philadelphia area, but began her career in Australia).

I met Neen five years ago when I attended my first National Speakers Association Annual Convention, and we have been friends ever since.  She has heart of gold and lives a life overflowing with generosity of spirit.  Although I was new to the speaking business, she helped me find my place in the NSA speaker community.  

As a leader you are not only responsible for your own productivity, but for helping those on your team be as productive as possible. Folding Time is taking half as long to achieve twice the results. It is consciously choosing to invest half the time but expecting twice the results. We are being asked to do more with less. The solution: learn to Fold Time. We don’t have time to do everything... we only have time to do what matters. Check out this book, as it will make you think differently.

You can learn more about Neen James on her website, and order the book directly from her store.
Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Sara Singer - ACG Chapter Executive Extraordinaire

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

My wife, Sara Singer, is the Chapter Executive for the Central Texas Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).  She has been in this job for six years, and does a great job of running the programs for the association (which includes both Austin and San Antonio).  She had spent over 10 years working in the hotel business, so her meeting planning experience comes in very handy in her current position.  (I always say if you want to find someone who knows how to work hard, seek out someone with experience in the hospitality industry!).

Each June the chapter hosts the Central Texas Growth Awards, which honor companies of all sizes in the region that have demonstrated outstanding growth.  In good times, and in bad, the Central Texas region continues to have companies that are expanding.  This year there were 12 finalists selected from a huge number of nominees, and four companies were honored at the gala luncheon on June 12, 2013.

This awards lunch is now in its 8th year, and is the largest event that Sara oversees in her role as Chapter Executive.  The luncheon has grown to 200 attendees, and is consistently one of the best local networking meetings for middle-market companies in the region.

While there are many people on the ACG Central Texas Board, and other volunteers, who contribute to make this event a success, I am impressed by the work Sara does behind the scenes to ensure that all the pieces come together.  The event runs like a well-oiled machine, and she makes it all look so easy.

I am excited to include Sara in one of my "Cool Things My Friends Do" blog posts.... as she is both cool... and my friend!  If you have never attended an ACG event in Austin or San Antonio, I am sure she would be glad to tell you more about their monthly lunches, the Toast to Private Equity, the Annual Golf Tournament,  or the Awards Luncheon!

Have A Great Day

thom singer 

Cool Things My Friends Do -- Jessica Pettitt Launches "Shebango!"

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

One of the best parts of being a professional speaker is the wonderful friends I have made in the speaking industry.  Jessica Pettitt, CSP is one of those special friends who has enhanced my life by her presence.  She is a former college administrator and stand-up comic who became a professional speaker.  I met Jess about 18 months ago at a National Speakers Association event, and we have become fast friends.  She is one of those people who is always willing to help others and takes joy in the success of those around her.

Jessica has launched a series of product offerings for closing a conference called "Shebango!".  Together we share a belief that the speakers selected to open and close a conference set the tone for the whole event, and impact how people remember their experience (which leads to how they talk-up the conference to their peers and influences if they return the following year).

Where my "Conference Catalyst" program typically kicks off an event, her "Shebango!" closes the conference (Holy Cow -  I can't wait until the right planner comes along who uses us both at the same event!!! Talk about fun for all).  She participates in all aspects of the conference and then summarizes the vibe of the multiple days with her unique mix of humor and motivation.

Here is a quick video where she shares more information about "Shebango!"

Want to see Jessica in action?  She will be the Facilitator of Awesomeness (and yes, the Shebango!) at the America Talks Business Conference in Philadelphia on July 24-26, 2013.

Congrats to Jess.... this is cool (and so is she).

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Bill Singer Saxophone Repairman - 30 Years In New York City

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

The song says "If you can make it there, you can make it anywhere" in regards to succeeding in New York City.  To be on top of your game in the Big Apple for thirty years is quite an accomplishment for anyone, and this month marks three decades that my brother has been the premier Saxophone Repairman in New York City.

Bill Singer moved to New York City to play music, surround himself with the best musicians in the world, and to repair instruments.  He has always loved the saxophone, and over the years his hands have saved many thousands of horns from disrepair.

Bill is 12 years older than me, and his constant practicing and playing music (and his love of Jazz) echoes in my childhood memories.  I can recall being unable to hear the television even though he was playing in his own room.  Not being able to hear The Flintstones meant complaints to the parents (maybe whining and tears?), and Bill was often sent out to the garage to practice.  I can still see the image in my head of him in exile down the driveway on rainy nights belting out tunes. 

To earn a living he began repairing horns.  The saxophone is a delicate instrument, and Bill's commitment to each repair is evident in the artistic manner in which he applies his craft.  I have watched him work, and he treats each horn repair as a work of art.  The passion of that kid learning to play that saxophone in the garage is evident today in the way he runs his business.  All jobs get the same level of attention, no matter how big or how small.  He enjoys working with the new aspiring musicians as much as he does the celebrities (He has repaired the horns of many of the most renowned saxophone players of our time, some referring to him as "the Music Doctor").

All of his clients find him through word-of-mouth, and he is known far beyond boroughs of New York City.  It is not uncommon for those coming the area to bring their saxophones with them for an appointment.... but an appointment is always needed, as his calendar is booked months in advance.  He is a great example of how "Word-of-Mouth Marketing" can book you solid.  Do great work in a niche business and the customers will find you!  While he is not the only repairman, his dedication to the craft of saxophone repair has made him "the" repairman of choice.

Bill has seen a lot of changes in New York City and in the music industry.  He has survived the good times and the bad with a strong focus on overcoming all odds. Quitting has never been an option. 

Passion, plus hard work, has transformed his love of the saxophone into his career. While Bill Singer works hard, I do not think he considers what he does to be "work".  He always seems to be having fun!  

Doing something you love and being your own boss can be pretty cool...thus he is today's entry into "Cool Things My Friends Do".

Congrats to my big brother on 30 years in New York City!!!

Check out the attached video created by one of Bill's clients.... it has over 18,000 views on YouTube and shows a great personal side of Bill in action!!

Have A Great Day

thom singer

(Note the below photos of a repair)

Cool Things My Friends Do: Ryan Surber - Founder of MyCharityLife

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their personal and professional lives.

I had the honor to meet Ryan Surber and Nora Harding from MyCharityLife.  They are part of a team that is growing the MyCharityLife program and taking it across the country with the mission of getting young people engaged with giving.  I was taken in by their story and think they are doing something very cool.  

Ryan has dedicated himself to this cause and is building a way for people to give small amounts, over time, and then watch their philanthropic endeavors grow to serve charities in their local markets.  He and Nora are currently visiting 100 cities to share the message, but are calling "home" a split between Austin, Texas and Des Moines, Iowa.

MyCharityLife began a little over two years ago. Since that time Ryan has sold his financial services practice, downsized his life and possessions, bought a touring rig consisting of a 33’ 1999 Bluebird and 28’ trailer that serves as their home, mobile office, mobile video production studio, mobile tradeshow booth, and their party-on-the-go.

The creative team is made up of a great crew from Des Moines and Bangladesh, and two of them were even crazy enough to join him on the road in launching MyCharityLife to 100 cities over the next 52 weeks.

There are so many reasons to give back, and Ryan strongly believes that the millennial generation wants to give back while being heard. He has been an active part of leading this generation in different ways to do good and give back for over a decade, and MyCharityLife is the best of these movements and organizations.

If you are moved by what they are doing, then get involved:  Create a profile, build a personal charity portfolio, and commit to funding that portfolio every month. Host a meet-up in your town, or maybe even get a few leaders together to create a local MyCharityLife team. This can become something very personal in this world of social media. And the world needs more givers!!!

Have A Great Day

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Rico Reyes for State Representative

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and professional lives.

My friend Rico Reyes is running for State Representative in the 50th District in Texas.  How cool is that!

Rico and I met when we were both in the 2008 Leadership Austin Essentials Class.  He is one of those people whose authenticity comes across instantly and his smile puts everyone at ease. 

He has always taken a strong interest in serving the community, and it does not surprise me to see him make a run for the State House. He is destine to make the people of Central Texas proud of their native son.

Rico Reyes is a former Marine and a graduate of both Harvard and the University of Texas School of Law.  Regardless of your politics (he is a democrat), he is the type of person we all want in public service.  He cares deeply about helping others, and wants to make a difference.

He comes from humble roots (his grandfather was a school janitor) and has worked hard to achieve all that is the American Dream. 

Texas politics can be crazy, but I believe that Rico is going to make a big impact on the future.  If you live in District 50 (or beyond), take a minute to look at his website and "like" his Facebook page.  If you are so moved, make a donation to his campaign.  Running for public office has become expensive, and quality candidates need our support.

I will update you on this blog when my friend Rico Reyes is elected to the State House of Representatives!!! Stay tuned.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do: Cameron Gibson - Dollar A Day

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and professional lives.

Cameron Gibson is a young man with a vision for making the world a better place.  He realizes that you do not have to be rich to impact your community, and he is taking on a monumental project to help get his generation excited about making the world a better place.

Cameron is the founder and CEO of Dollar A Day.  Their mission is to give kids around the world the opportunity to learn invaluable life lessons through participation in sports, music, and creative arts. These programs are being cut in many schools because of budget issues, but Cameron knows that being engaged in these activities can change the lives of children.  He has a cause and he is looking to solve the problem.

Dollar A Day is doing things differently.  It is not a charity but a company.  At first I raised my eyebrows at a for-profit organization raising money, but Cameron is all about transparency.  He is passionate about the cause, open with his company's financial records, and looking for ways to get people involved with the idea of giving small amounts that add up to big changes.   Not all organizations that serve the greater good are charities, and he wants to grow something that has an impact.

I firmly believe that new and different models are needed to get better results.  The status quo does not seem to work in all cases.  Our world has some big issues that need creative solutions.  Cameron has that common trait of youthful excitement combined with the rare trait of taking action.  That coupling, when done right, can have a huge impact!

Dollar A Day is currently raising money on the crowd-source funding site Indiegogo.  Their goal is $100,000 to help launch the business to the next level.  Check out their efforts.

Have A Great Day.

thom singer

Cool Things My Friends Do - Linda Swindling Releases New Book

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and professional lives.

Linda Swindling, JD, CSP, is a professional speaker, executive coach and former president of the National Speakers Association - North Texas Chapter.  

I have known Linda for as long as I have been active in the speaking industry and she has always been a good friend.  We both speak often to law firms (she is a "recovering attorney") and she is always one to share ideas and advice on the world of attorneys.

Her new book, "Stop Complainers and Energy Drainers: How to Negotiate Work Drama to Get More Done (Wiley 2013)" was just released and it covers a topic which resonates with many people---  stopping the madness of whiners and complainers in the workplace!

Constant complainers take up resources, time and mental bandwidth. When you change a culture of complaining to one of contributing, you boost morale, increase productivity and promote effective communication. In short, you get more done with less drama. Stop Complainers and Energy Drainers shows you how to

negotiate through the toughest workplace situations by revealing strategies for refocusing conversations with whiners, using phrases to turn complainers into contributors, and stopping complainers from wasting your time.

It has been fun to watch Linda promote her book, as each day she posts new photos of people reading her book in interesting places.  On planes, in restaurants, at meetings, etc.... the book keeps popping up.  Linda said that she looks for people who look friendly and then asks them if they will pose for a photo.  The biggest thing she teaches in her negotiations skills classes is to ask for what you want..... and guess what?  -- It actually works!  

You can take her free assessments:  “Spot Your Complainer’s Type” and “Am I Seen as a Complainer” (use the code “Thom”) to determine what type of complainer you are working with or if you, yourself, might be a complainer.  Additional resources are at www.StopComplainers.com.

Have A Great Day

thom singer

**PS - not sure I loved that the special "complainer code" for readers of my blog was "Thom"... but I did not want to complain.   ;-)

Cool Things My Friends Do - Jessica Pettitt at Dartmouth College

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and professional lives.

Dartmouth College canceled classes this Wednesday (April 24, 2013) because of issues around social justice and threats of violence following protests. My friend (and fellow speaker and NSA XY board member) Jessica Pettitt was brought to campus by the administration to address the entire student body and start a healthy dialogue.

Jessica is a professional speaker who specializes in social justice and diversity issues. She regularly speaks on college campuses and consults with corporations on issues surrounding tolerance and acceptance for EVERYONE in the education and work environments.  Jess is an amazing speaker who can captivate an audience while educating them on this very important topic.  (I am still waiting to find a link to the video from the Dartmouth presentation... when it is posted I will share it).

Her workshops, trainings, and keynotes take participants on a journey weaving together politics, theory, current events, and storytelling with large doses of humor.  Plus she make you think.

The presentation at Dartmouth was standing room only and was broadcast across campus (and I hear she got a roaring standing ovation!!!).  Read more about this event in the school's student newspaper; The Dartmouth. I have read comments about how wonderful her presentation was, and how it got the many in the student body to rethink how they will approach issues with those whom they disagree.

I love seeing my friends do such cool things!!!  Great Job, Jess.

Have A Great Day

thom singer