Don’t Go It Alone

Have you ever heard this African proverb? The concept is pretty straightforward. We can accomplish a lot of great things through persistence and quick action. But we can overcome entirely different barriers when we opt into partnering with others. It’s how we’ve developed as a social species. Yet when it comes to engaging with politicsContinue reading “Don’t Go It Alone”

With All Due Respect, That’s Chicken Sh*t

There are a lot of great stories about former Speaker of the House, John Boehner. And as a fellow Ohioan, I’m contractually obligated to share great stories about Ohioans. With recent events in the Buckeye state, I felt there was no better time than the present to share. A number of years ago, I wasContinue reading “With All Due Respect, That’s Chicken Sh*t”

Not Ashamed: Why I’m Proud to be a Lobbyist

It never fails. When I’m out and about with other lobbyists, I see it happen – just as soon as the very first stranger asks “so, what do you do?” In that moment, almost everybody dodges the question. Unlike so many other industries, we seem to feel compelled to hide our work. We use funContinue reading “Not Ashamed: Why I’m Proud to be a Lobbyist”

Falling Out of Love With Your Plan

I internalized the importance of keeping our plans grounded in the reality that our environment – and the challenges we’re trying to conquer – are constantly evolving.

That evolution holds no regard for our egos.

The Number 1 Reason You Need to Participate in Politics

I think it’s easy to take for granted just how hard it is for most folks to participate in advocacy and politics. Yesterday, as I sat in a parking lot getting ready for a meeting I decided to shoot this quick video to share an important reminder I received this week. Now, I’ll beg yourContinue reading “The Number 1 Reason You Need to Participate in Politics”

Food, Fuel & Fiber: American Agriculture is National Security

Strategically speaking, America has a lot of advantages on the global stage. Geographically we are protected by distance from much of the world. The diversity of our expansive countryside means we are blessed with an incredible variety of natural resources. Our inland waterways are the envy of the world – granting every one of ourContinue reading “Food, Fuel & Fiber: American Agriculture is National Security”

Elon Musk is a National (Security) Treasure

Moving at the speed of human decency, Musk’s quick action caught the attention of the world this past weekend. Deservedly so. In a time when so many of us feel absolutely helpless to make a difference, it’s understandably invigorating to cheer on someone who can.

“The fight is here. I need ammunition, not a ride.”

Leadership in moments of crisis demands that you confront the point of friction.

Advocacy During Times of Crisis

Well, I hate to break it to you – there will never be a better time. There will always be another crisis, another scandal, another headline in the way. History marches on.

Reluctant Warriors

I’m writing this piece after spending an hour catching up on the latest out of Ukraine, and some time before that reading a biography on Ulysses S. Grant. That particular cocktail can bring your attention to a staggering truth about war: those who prepare to fight them, rarely want to. Our 18th President was noContinue reading “Reluctant Warriors”