Milwaukee Ideas Podcast

Sometimes, you get an idea that sounds obvious, but, you've never heard of it before. In this episode, Pat shares an idea for a business that he believes could be a game changer for small charitable organizations. Problems include: it may already exist, or, it may be really stupid. Take a listen and YOU be the judge!

As business owners we are overwhelmed with requests on our time. As a result, we find ourselves stressed out, over worked and rushed. In this episode, Pat preaches the glory of the word NO. You don't say it enough - take a listen to three examples of saying NO and a few reasons why we say YES so much.

Here at Small Step Solutions HQ, it's Pat's job to come up with business-altering ideas that help small businesses grow. When he's not coming up with business ideas there are plenty of other random observations floating around. Here are 5 of them...one includes the secret to 6-pack Abs.

This episode is for you if you ever feel behind or guilty about how much time you spend on your company's marketing and social media. Pat has a clear message for you: DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT. Take a listen to this brief episode and cut yourself a break.

We've all been there. Stumped with a decision and we're not sure which path to take. In this episode, Pat shares a few techniques to pick a path forward to solve the problem. If you'd like some help solving yours, let's get together for a free one-on-one consultation with Small Step Solutions. We do hard things. pat@smllstp.com

Celebrate a great year by making a donation to USO Wisconsin and sponsor the "Portraits of Bravery" event with Stories Framed Photography and First Bank Financial Center. Twenty (20!) active duty families will receive free portrait sessions with prints and Christmas cards if we can fill up our sponsorship opportunities. To learn more - email Pat - pat@smllstp.com

It's a launch day on the Milwaukee Ideas Podcast. We are so excited for Sara Nowacki and Autism Friendly Vacations! Sara is a Certified Autism Travel Professional who helps families with a child on the autism spectrum enjoy the gift of travel. More and more resorts are now trained and certified to help families and Sara is the expert on helping plan these trips stress-free. If you know a family Sara can help, please share this podcast and direct them to AutismVacation.com

We are building the #ShiftMKE networking group and we want to make sure we are consciously serving the community. What do YOU want out of networking? Our first mission is to share the Milwaukee Oyster Roast for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Get your tickets now at: OysterRoast.org #ShiftMKE

Nike signed Colin Kaepernick to be the face of a new campaign. It garnered a ton of attention, some positive reaction and some boycotts. Was it a smart marketing strategy? YES. Here's what you can learn from their decision.

Our digital overlords have announced three new phones that will go on sale soon. What are the pros and cons of the new devices? Are they worth the money? Let's discuss!

In this episode, Pat invites you to attend a free Breakthrough Breakfast meeting with Small Step Solutions. Join a team of two other business owners to work together and solve your toughest business challenge. From operations to staffing to marketing, we cover it all. Sign up for an upcoming Breakthrough Breakfast HERE.

In this episode, Pat shares some things we need to think about NOW so we are ready to start 2019. It's seems like so long away, but, taking action now with your goals, budgets and staff will save you time and money. Take a listen!

In this episode, Pat shares ideas on how to clean up your digital footprint over the long holiday weekend. Sites, passwords and even your mobile device could use a few moments of your attention. Squeeze in one hour of work and your digital life will thank you. Happy Labor Day Weekend!

In this episode - Pat shares a moment of thanks to Jody Smith of Forge Marketing and Jennifer Buchholz from Excel and Flourish for GIVING their time and energy to help Small Step Solutions. It's a great reminder of being present and generous for those you meet with - it's so valuable!

In this episode - Pat shares his technique to curate a great list of restaurants and bars to go to for meetings and with friends. It's easy to find great places when Milwaukee has so many cool places to go! Shout outs in this episode to @vanguardmke and @bavettebutcher, @onmilwaukee and @mkediner

In this episode - Pat shares 5 places you can drag the laptop and work to spice up your day. I mean, you can only work in a coffee shop for so long, right? Shout outs to @sazstatehouse and other fine establishments.

In this episode - Pat speculates on a feeling he has that business is going to pop after Labor Day. Do you feel the same way - or different? Share you thoughts at milwaukeeideas.com.

In this episode - Pat had a terrific 24 hours doing business in Milwaukee, this wonderful city we call home. From the morning workout to the late night tacos, the city and business community is a great place to do business. Shout outs to: Badger Crossfit, Robert Hurst and the Cigar Networkers of Milwaukee, Local First and Bel Air Cantina

In this episode - Do you wear your name tag on the left or right side of your chest? There IS a right and wrong answer - I wore my wrong for decades. Also, a few quick thoughts on business cards at networking events.

In this episode we talk about the art of following up with a potential client or contact. How many times do you email or call them before you feel like it's dead. If you're like Pat, you've stuck with the "Three Strikes and You're Out" rule. Some say that's not nearly enough to win the business.