Devoted to small businesses and those who run them

* What accomplishments are you most proud of during your career?  Has your business or product won any awards, mentions in the press, garnered praise in reviews or by users, or helped someone overcome a challenge of their own?  Tell us about it!

I was diagnosed with cancer in 1998.  That was a sobering experience for me.  While I remained positive and did what I had to do to beat it, the cancer diagnosis forced me to take a look at my life.  When I did, I came to the following conclusion: I am a good person.  I have helped a lot of people lead more productive lives, I've built a successful business on helping other people learn and grow.  I'm proud of that.

* Without spilling the beans, what is in the works for your business or product line for 2006?  Where are you headed, and where do you hope to be by the end of the year?  What about the coming years?  Share your goals with us and tell us how you plan to achieve them.

I'm working on a new book.  The working title is Star Power: How to become a star in your life and career.  I expect it will be out late in 2006. 

I have a new keynote by the same name.  I am working on getting booked at college campuses to help young people.  I think that I have something to say to them as they prepare to leave college and enter the real world.

I am also working on developing and marketing information products.  Currently, I am assessing shopping carts.  I've registered the domain www.FrontRowPress.com.  I'll sell my information products there.  These will include electronic and print copies of my six books and tips booklet, CD sets, and training programs for use by small companies.

I expect to work until I die.  I keep learning and growing, and I hope to keep sharing my common sense, but uncommon wisdom in the years to come.

* Have you worked with a mentor who has led you far?  Take a moment to recognize their contribution(s) and we'll all applaud with you!

I've had several mentors.  Cathy, my wife, showed me how to be strong and how to take responsibility for myself.  Bill Rankin taught me how to be a gentleman.  Tony Maddaluna taught me the value of persistence.  John Arigoni taught me the importance of service.