I had a great conversation about "competition" last night.  I won't tell who it was with or what it was for because I don't want to ruin the surprise... but...

In many parts, the conversation revolved around uncovering opportunity and creating a competitive situation.  In many cases, you have to have enough confidence in your abilities within your practice that you fear no "competitor".  Granted, you may lose a bid, but if you didn't create the opportunity... did anyone have a chance to be successful?

There's much more to the convo, but I'll wait until it's finished to give you the full version.

For someone that doesn't really understand a ton of blog language... I'm getting more familiar with the term 'meme'.  After all, I've been included on one in the past and sort of included on Timothy Johnson's blog recently.  (Thanks for the uber-networker comment too.  I'm assuming uber means good!)

Since, technically I wasn't tagged, I may be overstepping my bounds, but I'm going to answer Timothy's question anyway.  I would want to shadow Curt Schilling.  He's got the attitude of a winner and he's also not afraid to speak up about what he believes in.  I think we could share some interesting stories too. 

I had another fun day at the family pond this weekend.  Art Dinkin and I had been planning on going fishing for quite awhile and finally our schedules allowed it to happen.  The heat index in southern Iowa on Saturday was supposed to be around 104, but the weather turned out to be almost perfect.  However, if you've seen me since Saturday, you'll notice I'm burnt to a crisp again.

All in all, we had a chance to kick back, catch some fish and even talk some business.  We got on the subject of trying to force fit certain business products into different situations.  Art pointed out that he'd written a post on the subject. Check it out here.  It's a spot on match and a great point/post.

Thanks for fishing with me, Art.  I had a blast! 

Who should we bring out next?

Brett Trout had a interesting post the other day.  Check it out.  Not only is it cool that he's a cage fighter, but he's got great insight into establishing relationships.  The advice he gives will also help as you network and try to meet others in social settings.  In my opinion, establishing professional relationships doesn't always have to involve business situations.

Great post, Brett!

Yesterday, I had an opportunity to have a great conversation with Sherry Borzo of DSM Buzz.  One of the interesting things about our conversation is that it was recorded on Blog Talk Radio.  The download is at the bottom of Sherry's post.  Sherry is doing great things in Central Iowa and I'm excited to watch her progress as an entrepreneur.  Don't hesitate to contact her and discuss how you can help her grow her business. Thank you Sherry for thinking of me for your entrepreneur series!

Side Note:  As much as I hate hearing my own voice... this interview has a pretty fun contrast and also some similarities from my Blog Talk Radio interview with Rush Nigut.  Feel free to compare and contrast.

It's not too often that I highlight a specific business that operates in Iowa.  I don't typically do this because there are so many quality businesses around here that I don't want to exclude anyone.  Well, today I'm making a major exception.  I'm shamelessly promoting Smart Pest Solutions.

If you clicked through, you'll see why I love this company.  My older brother Aaron, is taking the leap into entrepreneurship.  He's nervous, excited and terrified all at the same time.  Hmm... kinda like riding a bull.  Anyway, Aaron is facing his fear and doing what he feels is right for his family.

Keep your eyes and ears peeled because I'm sending him on the networking circuit.  The first pest control man to try and create success for others and take care of your pests at the same time. This is going to be a wild ride!

More and more I'm getting asked to give my opinions on what Young Professional group is the best to join.  Since I will repeat this anywhere... I thought I'd post a blog of my answer and (hopefully) get some feedback from others.

My answer to the question is based on my personal experience over the last 3 years... doing what I do best.  So, without further qualifications... here is my answer to "Which Young Professional group should I join?"

I don't believe Young Professionals, who are trying to build a professional practice, should constrain themselves to an age category.  I see people who are 75 years old that work just as hard as I do.  It's because of this that you shouldn't limit yourself to a particular Young Professional group.  There are networking events all over Iowa (some young/some old) and each one of them has value.  However, they only have value if you cause them to have value.  You must take it upon yourself to make the introductions necessary to give yourself a shot at business success.  It's my opinion that, if you limit yourself to one group... you could be missing out on opportunities that exist in other groups.

Now that I think of it, my coffee answer is usually much longer, but is that vague enough to cause some conversation?