"Business Solutions" with Diane Chamness

New Year, New Plan in 3 Steps

2012-01-16T14:17:00.002-06:00

Listen to the show: New Year, New Plan

It's the start of a new year and as a business owner you've probably been contemplating where to take your business in 2012. A recent statistic indicated that 50% of businesses don't have a strategic plan and this makes it difficult for employees to support the business owner's vision and goals. Listen to business guru Diane Chamness talk about three things you can do that don't require a traditional strategic planning process, but will help lead your business down a successful path:

1. Feed your spirit.
2. Build good ideas.
3. Ensure financial wherewithal.

Listen to the show for details about each step and how it will help your business improve and grow.

All About Health Savings Accounts

2012-01-09T13:53:00.002-06:00

Listen to the show: Terry Frett and HSAs

Terry Frett, President of Frett Barrington, Ltd., is back on the show to provide information about Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Listen and learn about HSAs - what it is, how it works, the rules and regulations around HSAs and more. Whether your company is thinking of introducing an HSA, already has one, or you're a consumer wondering how to maximize your HSA, this show is a valuable resource to answer all of your questions.

Hunger and the Holidays in Milwaukee

2011-11-28T16:42:00.000-06:00

Listen to the show: Hunger Task Force and Milwaukee Rescue Mission

Diane welcomes Sherrie Tussler, Executive Director for Hunger Task Force, and Pat Vanderburgh, Executive Director for the Milwaukee Rescue Mission, to the show this week to talk about how these organizations operate and help people in the Milwaukee area. Find out what these organizations do and learn how you can get involved this holiday season.

About Hunger Task Force
Get connected: http://www.hungertaskforce.org/ | 414.777.0483
Hunger Task Force was founded in 1974 by a group of concerned parents worried about children going to school hungry. Then, in 1977, they responded to community need by opening a food bank to distribute free food to local charities that feed the hungry. More than 4,000 people volunteer each year, putting their time and talent to work across all areas of the agency. Hunger Task Force charges no fees and receives no United Way funding, so most of their budget is raised through ongoing solicitations from foundations, corporations, labor unions and individuals. Hunger Task Force attacks hunger on two fronts: Advocacy and Food Banking.

About Milwaukee Rescue Mission
Get connected: http://www.milmission.org/ | 414.344.2211
The Milwaukee Rescue Mission opened in 1893, and since then the Milwaukee Rescue Mission has reached out with compassion for the poor, hungry and homeless of the Milwaukee community. Each day, they provide food and shelter for up to 400 men, women and children who might have nowhere else to turn without the Milwaukee Rescue Mission. In addition to meeting their immediate needs, they provide the training, support and guidance they need to rebuild their lives.

The Latest Technology

2011-11-21T16:04:00.001-06:00

Listen to the show: The Latest Technology

Return guest host Jason Kayzar, President and Director of National Accounts for MC2, a telecommunications company that assists businesses with their connectivity, was on the air to discuss the latest technology and gadgets. Listen to learn about new tools to keep you and your business connected to the rest of the world.

Employer Sponsored Health Plans & The Year in Review

2011-11-07T16:52:00.001-06:00

Listen to the show: Terry Frett & Employer Sponsored Health Plans

Listen to resident benefits expert Terry Frett from Frett Barrington Ltd. discuss employer sponsored health plans and what developments and changes have taken place in this area over the past year. Terry and Diane will review things such as the expansion of preventive care services under the Federal Health Care Law, as well as updates specific to Wisconsin, like the recognition of HSA tax qualified status. Get all of your questions answered!

The Business of Beauty

2011-10-24T16:26:00.001-05:00

Listen to the show: Dr. George Korkos, Rejuva

George Korkos, M.D. F.A.C.S., the Medical Director for Rejuva Skin Care & Wellness in Waukesha, Wis., joined Diane in the studio last Saturday to discuss the business of beauty. How can we stay and look vital? How important is vitality, image and beauty in today's business world? How can baby boomers better compete with younger, seemingly more vital and tech savvy professionals?

Dr. Korkos has been practicing plastic surgery for more than 40 years, but has recently been focusing on less evasive ways to make patients more youthful. Listen to last week's show to hear him and Diane discuss beauty and its role in business today.

Business in the State of Wisconsin

2011-10-17T14:15:00.000-05:00

Listen to the show: Mark O'Connell and Rep. Vos

This is the second show in a two-part series where Executive Director of the Wisconsin Counties Association Mark O'Connell talks to a Wisconsin state representative to learn more about how Wisconsin is doing as a state right now. Mark and Representative Robin Vos will discuss the state of business in Wisconsin, where the state is going to be and how the state will utilize the recently created and modified programs to create jobs and business in the state.

Economic Development in the State of Wisconsin

2011-10-10T13:31:00.002-05:00

Listen to the show: Mark O'Connell and Rep. Barca

This week Mark O'Connell, resident political expert and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Counties Association, is joined in the studio by Representative Peter Barca to discuss economic development in the state of Wisconsin.

This is the first part of a two part series. Next week Mark will talk to Representative Robin Vos about the State of Business in Wisconsin.

Fear in the Workplace with Intuitive Roi Solberg

2011-10-03T11:48:00.034-05:00

Listen to the show: Fear in the Workplace

On October 1st "Business Solutions" resident intuitive Roi Solberg joined Diane in the studio to discuss fear in the workplace.

Over the past two years downsizing and lack of income and resources have left people unsure, feeling insecure and "on the brink," which leads to considerable stress. How are fear and stress impacting your business and your decisions and perhaps holding you back in significant ways?

Listen to Roi and Diane explore how fear affects your decision making, your interaction or lack of interaction with people in your office, and how to recognize the signs of fear permeating your workplace.

Roi Solberg is the author of Spirit of Archetypes: Cards of Spiritual Guidance, a self awareness tool including 48 cards and a comprehensive book. For more information about Roi and to order her book visit http://www.roisolberg.com/.

7th Anniversary "Open Mic" Show

2011-09-26T15:15:00.000-05:00

Listen to the show: Open Mic Show

Diane Chamness and "Business Solutions" celebrated 7 years of being on the air on September 24, 2011. To celebrate the show and the spirit of entreprenuership, Diane opened the phone lines for business owners to call-in and talk to WISN 1130AM listeners and get some free advertising in the process!

Get inspired by other small business owners - listen to their stories, what they do, the type of customer they're looking for, and how you can get in touch.

Make Telecommunications Technology Work for Your Business

2011-09-19T14:49:00.000-05:00

Listen to the show: Jason Kayzar, MC2

On September 17, 2011, Jason Kayzar played a double role as host and guest on "Business Solutions." Jason is the President and Director of National Accounts for MC2, a telecommunications company that supports clients on billing issues with carriers, network performance and new technology rollouts.

Listen to Jason and Paul discuss the latest and greatest in telecommunications technology - tablets, 4G, iPhones, voice over IP and more!

For more information about MC2 visit:
http://www.mc2wi.com/
414.276.2200

A Busy Summer with Great Guests

2011-09-13T12:20:00.009-05:00

Chamness Group had a busy summer and we're sure you did too! Host Diane Chamness was joined in the studio by some interesting and inspiring guests in the last few months. Click on any link below to listen to the podcast:

Jul. 30, 2011 Small Business Administration's Eric Ness
Listen to Eric Ness, District Director for the Small Business Administration, discuss tips and give information on how to get business with the government and why you should want to.

Aug. 20, 2011 Dr. Debra Muth, Serenity Health Care
Entrepreneurs and Health: How baby boomers can live a more vital life as they deal with the years of abuse on their bodies through stress, long hours and mounting responsibilities, as discussed with Dr. Debra Muth of Serenity Health Care.

Aug. 27, 2011 Terry Frett
The President of Frett Barrington Ltd discusses the future build out of the new State of Wisconsin Individual Purchasing Exchange and the Small Business health option Program (SHOP Exchange).

Sept. 3, 2011 Justin Juley, SMPS
The Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Wisconsin Chapter benefits and 2011 programs, and discussion of key concepts from the Build Business National Conference.

Sept. 10, 2011 Jim Tarantino, Capri Communities
How Capri Communities and other senior living apartment communities are preparing for the influx of retired baby boomers in the next 20 years by integrating RCAC, memory care and other special functions into their facilities.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

2011-07-19T09:13:00.001-05:00

Listen to the show: Habitat for Humanity ReStore

On Saturday, July 16, 2011, Director for Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Jeri Kavanaugh, joined Diane in the studio to talk about the ReStore and Vintage Tech E-cycling Event at State Fair this Saturday, July 23, 2011, from 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is inviting the general public to bring all of their old electronics to the State Fair grounds for recycling, free of charge. In return, each person donating will receive a 50% off coupon to be used at the ReStore, located at 3015 N. 114th St. in Wauwatosa.

For those not able to attend the E-cycling Event, you can still bring electronics for recycling to the ReStore.

About Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Habitat for Humanity ReStore has partnered with Vintage Tech Recylers out of Illinois to recycle old electronics. The ReStore now accepts televisions, computers, microwaves, printers, copiers, monitors, radios, cd players, DVD players etc. and recycles them for money. The money is used to further Milwaukee Habitats mission of building affordable homes in the City of Milwaukee.

The ReStore picks up donations as well and is open to the public. Donations are accepted up until one hour before closing.

Store hours:

Tues, Thurs, Fri – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wed – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sat – 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

In addition the ReStore holds “how to” classes, such as how to tile, how to drywall, etc. You can check out our weekly sale items and what is new in the store by checking our website at www.milwaukeerestore.org.

This Week: Small Business Administration's Bob Giesfeldt

2011-07-06T13:45:00.003-05:00

Updated! Listen to the show: SBA

In the studio with Diane this week is Bob Giesfeldt, Lead Business Development Specialist with the Small Business Administration (SBA), Wisconsin District-Milwaukee.

Make sure to listen to the live show and call in with your questions about starting and running a small business in Wisconsin.

About SBA's Wisconsin District Office
The Wisconsin District Office is responsible for the delivery of SBA's many programs and services to the 72 counties of Wisconsin. They have offices located in both Madison and Milwaukee.

The Wisconsin office assists several hundred businesses each year by providing financial assistance through the 7(a) and 504 loan programs. The Wisconsin SBA assisted 2,115 businesses in obtaining over $551 million in Loans, and we assisted with 72 Micro Loans in the amount of $1,280,261 for fiscal year 2010 that ended September 30, 2010.

Services Available
Over the years, the SBA has developed many small business loan and assistance programs, special outreach efforts and initiatives to aid and inform small businesses. The following describes briefly all the services and information available through this office:

Free counseling, advice and information on starting a business are available through SCORE: Counselors to America's Small Business.
Financial assistance for new or existing businesses through guaranteed loans made by area bank and non-bank lenders.
Free consulting services through the network of Small Business Development Centers. SBDCs also conduct training events throughout the district - some require a nominal registration fee.
Women's Business Ownership Representatives are available to advise women business owners.
Special loan programs are available for businesses involved in international trade.
If you're a veteran, you can get business counseling and information about SBA guaranteed loans. In Wisconsin, contact Joe Rosner at (414) 297-1178. Joe can direct you to resource partners that best suit your business needs. SBA can also help veterans start or expand a business.

4th of July Weekend Show - VETransfer

2011-06-28T10:51:00.001-05:00

UPDATE! Listen to the show: VETransfer.org

On this Saturday's show Diane will be talking with Veteran Entrepreneurial Transfer executives Ted Lasser, Director with VETransfer and a Vietnam Air Force Veteran, and Nick Wichert, Director of Business Development and a VETransfer Coach.

Listen in to learn about VETransfer, why the program is important, what it means to veterans, and how veterans can get involved.

About VETransfer (for more information visit www.vetransfer.org):

As of March 28, 2011 VETransfer.org has been funded in part by the VA and soon through charitable donations via the Patriot Partner Program. The business accelerator program is earmarked through the Department of Veteran Affairs Innovation Initiative (VAi2) as a future GI Bill Benefit. All Veteran Entrepreneurs who served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military who are interested in starting a business should contact VETransfer. Regardless of your level of expertise, VETransfer can assist as much as or as little as you need to help you plan, launch, and succeed at running your business!

It's that time of year again - SUMMERFEST!

2011-06-21T12:29:00.001-05:00

Update! Listen to the show: Summerfest
Summerfest - The World's Largest Music Festival right here in Milwaukee - is around the corner and this Saturday Diane will be talking live with Summerfest executives Don Smiley, President and Chief Executive Officer, and John Boler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Tune in to hear about the latest and greatest this year at Summerfest:

Opening Day surprises and the "Biggest Bang Ever"
South End Redevelopment - with special guest Greg Uhen of Eppstein Uhen Architects
Rock 'N Sole Half Marathon and 10K Run
The Green Scene at Summerfest
Sazama's Lakeside Grille
and the 2011 entertainment line-up

www.summerfest.com

June 29 – July 3 and July 5 – 10, 2011 (Closed on Monday, July 4)

Noon until midnight daily

Gate Admission Tickets

Adults and Children over 10:

Weekday Admission Ticket $8 (valid Tuesday – Friday, prior to 4:00 pm)
General Admission Ticket $15 (valid anytime, including evenings after 4:00 pm and weekends)

Seniors (60 and over): $3 at all times
Children (10 and under): $3 at all times
Infants (2 and under): FREE

Advanced Sale Tickets

Visit Instant Tickets on Summerfest.com to purchase General Admission tickets.

3-Day Pass: $33 (Save $12 off the evening and weekend admission price!)

This Saturday - Business Succession Planning

2011-06-15T10:11:00.002-05:00

Update! Listen to the show: Business Succession Planning
Listen in this Saturday as Diane and Carl Holborn, Attorney at Law with O'Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C., discuss Business Succession Planning. They'll review many aspects of succession planning including:

Can the Business be transferred
To whom should the Business be transferred to
How much is the Business worth
And many other topics!

Carl assists individuals, executives, professionals, and business owners with estate and business planning, as well as trust and probate administration. He also focuses on estate, gift, and income taxation.

Make sure to listen live and call in to have your questions answered!

2011 Lakefront Festival of Arts

2011-06-08T10:43:00.002-05:00

Updated! Listen to the show: Lakefront Festival of Arts
The 2011 Lakefront Festival of Arts is coming up June 17 - 19, and this Saturday Diane will be talking with Mick Dwyer, Lakefront Festival of Arts Co-Chair, and Krista Renfrew, Milwaukee Art Museum's Special Events Director. Diane, Mick and Krista will talk about what is new at LFOA this year, who the artists will be, the "Summer of China" and more about the long-running festival, now in its 49th year!

Lakefront Festival of Arts
www.lfoa.mam.org

LFOA HOURS
Friday, June 17, 2011, Noon–9 PM
Saturday, June 18, 2011, 10 AM–7 PM
Sunday, June 19, 2011, 10 AM–5 PM

ADMISSION
$14 at the gate
$20 three-day pass
$8 for Milwaukee Art Museum Members with valid membership card. Free to kids under 16 with a paid adult.

PARKING
Official festival parking is available.

ADVANCE LFOA TICKETS
Order tickets online.
Advance ticket sale locations available starting May 23.
For more information, call 414-224-3253

OFFICIAL LFOA PROGRAM
View the official LFOA program online.

2011 MAP
Download the LFOA Map.

Mark O'Connell and Guest from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce

2011-06-01T11:08:00.001-05:00

Updated! Listen to the show:
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce

This week Mark O'Connell, resident political expert and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Counties Association, is joined in the studio by James Buchen from the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. Make sure to listen and call in; join the conversation with your questions and comments!

Tune In This Saturday - Running An At-Home Business

2011-05-25T16:27:00.029-05:00

Update: Listen to the Show!
Running An At-Home Business
This Saturday Diane will be joined in the studio by Pat Algiers, President of Chemistry In Place, and Timothy Gill, promoter for the Milwaukee Home Business Expo, to discuss starting and managing a successful home-based business, along with how to overcome working-at-home challenges.

Pat and her company, Chemistry In Place, specialize in helping clients set-up new households resulting from life transitions, whether it is a move to a different residence or staying in an existing home. She has helped many company Presidents and CEOs establish successful home offices. Pat and Diane will discuss how your home office should be set-up and designed to facilitate productivity. Learn about not only where in your home your office should be located, but tips on how to operate while working from home in order to maximize your time and provide clients with the best experience.

Tim runs his own home business, Gill Enterprises, and is working with the Milwaukee Home Business Expo to bring direct selling companies and work-from-home business opportunities to everyday people. The Expo is next Saturday, June 4, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Wisconsin Products Pavilion at Wisconsin State Fair Park. Purchase advance tickets online at a buy-one-get-one-free rate (2 for $10).

Listen to the show to hear Tim and Diane discuss the Expo and how you can utilize these great and affordable resources for stay-at-home business owners, including:

Book "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Timothy Ferriss
RingCentral
Elance.com
Evernote
Constant Contact

What's In a Name?

2011-05-24T09:25:00.002-05:00

Basic Trademark and Intellectual Property Issues

Last week Diane was joined by Claude Krawczyk, an attorney with O'Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C., to discuss basic trademark and intellectual property issues. Claude and his firm work with entrepreneurs, start-up businesses, corporations and the like. O'Neil, Cannon, Hollman, DeJong & Laing S.C. has been around since 1972 with a main office in downtown Milwaukee, and offices in Port Washington and Sheboygan. The firm's 32 attorneys are specialists in a wide variety of general business law issues and handle all aspects of the business world, working with everyone from start-ups to fortune 400 companies.

Naming a business is one of the most exciting things you get to do as a business owner, but it can be difficult. If it's not going to be your name, how does it describe your business? How does it build a brand? What is the right name? Is it going to be memorable? Easy for people to say? And, how does it relate to what you do? Claude and Diane discussed when it's appropriate to register your name or the names of your products and other legal implications - all of the ins and outs of protecting your intellectual property.

They also reviewed the types of intellectual property, how they're different, and when each is used:

Trademark
Copyright
Patent
Trade Secret

This Week - Credit Specialist, Carie Nachreiner

2011-05-11T09:18:00.008-05:00

Update: Listen to the show! Credit And Your Business

President of One Choice Credit Repair, Carie Nachreiner, will join Diane on the show this week to discuss what you can do to maintain or improve your credit score and how your credit score affects your business.

Topics will include:

Your credit score
Increasing and repairing your credit
Bankruptcy
Foreclosure

Call into the show to ask about other topics and get your questions answered.

Terry Frett - New Health Care Reform

2011-05-10T13:58:00.004-05:00

Terry Frett and Health Care Reform

Last Saturday's show featured resident benefits expert and "Business Solutions" return guest Terry Frett of Frett Barrington Ltd. Diane and Terry picked up from a discussion last fall and discussed the new health care reform, which "celebrated" it's first anniversary in March. Some of the new legislation was phased in beginning on September 23, 2010, with the renewal of employers' and individuals' plans, but new pieces of the legislation will be taking place this year and business owners will have to understand these changes and how they might affect their business.

Terry and Diane will review parts of the legislation that are already in place, as well as what is coming up in the near future.

More information:

Spring Updating

2011-05-03T13:10:00.001-05:00

A little like Spring cleaning, "Business Solutions" is doing some Spring updating. Below is a list of past shows that haven't been added to the blog yet. Hopefully you'll find something helpful for your business.

Apr. 23, 2011 Social Media
Diane Chamness and guest Steve Kabelowsky, content strategist with Platypus Advertising + Design, discuss social media. What is it about social media that is important for business today? Why and how you should be using it for your small business.

Apr. 9, 2011 At Home Business
Home-Based Businesses: 12% of all households have an at-home business and billions of dollars are made through home businesses each year. Discussing running a successful at-home business and how to overcome challenges.

Mar. 19, 2011 New Technologies
New technologies – what’s hot and what’s not with Jason Kayzar of MC2, a voice and data network business.

Feb. 12, 2011 IT Strategy
Guest Darren Fisher runs an IT consulting firm and helps companies strategically from a technology perspective.

Feb. 5, 2011 (Part 2 of 2) The New Normal Part 2
The “New Normal” for Business

Jan. 29, 2011 (Part 1 of 2) MP3 file coming soon...
The “New Normal” for Business: What is normal now? Discussing the current economic climate and how you can successfully operate in the “new normal.”

Dec. 18, 2010 Save on Your Taxes
Legal expert Barry White with certified public accountant Paul Wild discussing year-end tax planning that you can still do in 2010 to save on your taxes.

Dec. 11, 2010 Mark O'Connell and American Transmission Company
Mark O’Connell, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Counties Association, will be talking about energy with American Transmission Company’s Manager of Corporate Communication.

Dec. 4, 2010 How to Have a Great 2011
What are you doing differently in 2011? How you should approach your business differently this year.

Nov. 20, 2010 Top 12 Trends for 2011
Top 12 Trends for 2011: Staying optimistic and coping with the current economy; where and how to shift your business; businesses that are vital right now and how to tap into them; driving revenue.

Triad Construction - An Entrepreneurial Story of Challenges & Success

2010-11-02T15:17:00.011-05:00

Triad Construction

All markets are being hit by the uncertain economy – and one of the hardest hit is construction. Every day we hear news of more layoffs and worse. It’s enough to want to pull the covers over your head or throw in the towel.

But, as entrepreneurs….throwing in the towel is not an option. It simply isn’t in us to give up. Taking risks is what got us here…finding ways to succeed against seemingly impossible odds in some crazy way - fuels us.

Today we have a great story of how one small, young firm is working to beat the odds. Just entering their 5th year in business, Triad Construction has accomplished things that many firms like them don’t do in a lifetime. In these past 5 years the firm has been named:

• Wisconsin Builder’s Up and Coming Firm of the Year
• The Mayor’s Design Award and Top Projects Award
• Biz Times Fastest Growing Firms
• Waukesha’s Chamber of Commerce Top 10 Firms
• Metro Milwaukee Association of Commerce Future 50 Award not once, not twice but this is their third year being honored

Still, it hasn’t been an easy journey. They have experienced layoffs, cutbacks and stiff competition in a market where every contractor is looking for their next job.

Theirs is a story like all of ours – They are asking themselves -what next? How do we survive in a market where no one really knows when things will turn?

Werner and Mike have looked at their business and have come up with some simply strategies to maintain and hopefully grow their business. I have asked them to come on the show today and talk about what they are doing to beat the odds. I believe – regardless of the business you are in – you will find some possible solutions to some of your own business challenges.

Player Development in the Green Bay Packers

2010-08-19T13:52:00.001-05:00

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Packer Player Development

Rob Davis of the Green Bay Packers is in the studio with Diane this week discussing the importance of enhancing the members of your team in the best way possible. Davis is the Director of Player Development and is an important figure in the players' professional and personal lives. He is in charge of running Rookie Orientation, Personal Financial Management, continuing education, and player counciling, among several other duties and functions.

Davis knows what it takes to make his team be the best they can be as professionals on the field and engaged citizens off the field. Just like every other business, the Packer organization wants their employees to exceed and flourish in their professional capabilities.

Making your team the best it can be is a great lesson that Davis and everyone else at the Packer organization can offer to other businesses. Improving your employees will improve your business and keep you on the road to success.

Heathcare with Terry Frett

2010-08-14T14:06:00.000-05:00

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Terry Frett Talks Healthcare

This week, Terry Frett was back in the studio to talk about the constantly evolving topic of health care. Listen in as he dissects what a business needs to know about new regulations and requirements.

Political Expert Mark O'Connell

2010-07-31T13:48:00.000-05:00

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Wisconsin Politics

Mark O'Connell is in the studio bringing you news and information about the political issues important to the state.

Buying Local, Milwaukee

2010-07-24T11:59:00.000-05:00

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Buy Local

Buying local is a trend that has exploded with the organic and environmental movements; however, it has profound implications for businesses unassociated with food products and the local economy.

For this show, Diane brings Nancy Quinn to the studio. She works with Our Milwaukee, a business alliance that advocates for locally owned businesses that provide a genuine, quality experience - in celebration of our community's unique character. It is the locally owned businesses that maintain Milwaukee's unmistakable style. Our Milwaukee has 175 business members who range from retailers to restaurants to business-to-business/service providers.

Listen in to hear Nancy speak about what buying local really means, the benefits of patronage to local businesses, and the awareness campaign they are running during the month of April.

Real Estate Tenant Consulting

2010-07-17T15:20:00.002-05:00

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The World of Tenant Consulting in Real Estate

After labor, real estate is usually the highest fixed cost for a business. Because businesses invest so much into this area, it would make sense to contact an expert in tenant real estate to be sure you are getting the most with the money you invest.

Jaime Levine from Weiss Berzowski Brady is in the studio with one of her firm's clients, Michael of Cresa Partners, who deals specifically with tenant real estate advising.

Listen in as Diane probes our guests and gets you the information about tenant real estate advising that can be helpful for your own organization.

Taking a Vacation is Good for Business

2010-07-10T08:54:00.000-05:00

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Taking a Vacation

This week, Diane talks about a topic that should be considered very important to all small business owners and entrepreneurs, but is ignored by many: taking a vacation. Many small business owners worry that if they take time for vacation they risk losing business, and to avoid the loss of business they just don't take one. However, research suggests that forgoing a vacation, including the psychological and physical health benefits associated with vacation, will not help you or your business.

Some quick facts about taking vacations:
- 66% of bosses worry about their business when they're out of the office and 75% check in by phone or email even when they are on vacation several times a day.
- If there is one thing small business owners can do to improve their companies' performances, experts say, it is take some time off.
- Researchers have found that people who work long hours can even become addicted to their own stress hormones. They feel sluggish when they're out of the office so the head back in for their fix, and the cycle repeats itself.
- Small business people tend to avoid long vacations, but studies show the psychological benefits of vacation start accruing after seven days. It takes most people two or three days just to start relaxing.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics found that approximately 574 million vacation days go unused by American workers each year.
- The average annual vacation days taken in the U.S. is 13. Compare that to 25 in Japan, 37 in France, and 26 in Germany.
- Studies show that men who take a yearly vacation are 30% less likely to have a heart attack and women are 50% less likely.

Playing with Fire: The Business of Fireworks

2010-07-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

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Playing with Fire

It's the Forth of July weekend and everyone has their own traditions: family cookouts, parades, red, white and blue decorations, and of course, there are the fireworks. As you watch the fantastic displays against the night sky, do you ever think of the business that are responsible for the show? Well, we did. That's why we have representatives from American Fireworks and Bartolotta Fireworks in the studio to tell us about their businesses and how they turn a seasonal product into a year-round business.

American Fireworks is a company that sells consumer-grade fireworks for you to set off on your own - make a private show for your family and friends with the help of the staff's recommendations and your own personal favorite fireworks.

Bartolotta Fireworks is responsible for several of the biggest firework displays in Milwaukee including Summerfest's Big Bang, U.S. Bank's 4th of July show, and several of the "fest" firework displays.

Their insights are both enlightening and fascinating. The business of fireworks is truly a fun and unique line of work.

Summerfest's Back!

2010-06-19T14:19:00.000-05:00

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Summerfest Show

Summerfest, Milwaukee's biggest and perhaps most loved festival has come to define summer in Milwaukee. But it's no easy task to make Summerfest live up to its long-standing reputation. Hundreds of people work all year long to ensure that the 11 day festival is a success. This year, Summerfest will take place June 24th - July 4th.

Diane talks with Don Smiley, President and CEO of Summerfest, and John Boler, Vice President of Sales and Marketing to discuss their vision, their commitment to a quality event, economic impacts to our community and the kind of collaboration it takes to make Summerfest a success.

Ticket information:
Weekday at the gate = $8 before 4:00 p.m.
Weekend and evening at the gate = $15
Seniors = $3
Children 3-10 = $3
Children 2 & under = FREE
3 Day Advance Purchase Pass = $33

48th Annual Lakefront Festival of Arts

2010-06-12T13:27:00.000-05:00

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Lakefront Festival of Arts

You can tell that the summer season is in full swing by the lakefront because next weekend is the Milwaukee Art Museum’s Annual Lakefront Festival of Arts. This festival really marks the beginning of weekends spent on the lakeshore and the unofficial “fest season.” Now in its 48th year, the festival runs from Friday, June 18th through Sunday, June 20th on the lakefront right next to the Milwaukee Art Museum.

This weekend, we invited several people to the show who are absolutely instrumental in putting this festival together. They are: Deb Gerke and Danielle Brinkman, LFOA co-chairs, Sandi Anderson, Milwaukee Art Museum Special Events Director, and Shelby Keefe, LFOA featured poster artist.

Looking for a Good Business Book?

2010-06-05T13:04:00.003-05:00

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Business Book Reviews

We are all looking for answers on how to do things better, smarter, faster - especially in this economy. There are several different resources and business books out there devoted specifically to addressing these concerns. Well, now it's summer and time to pull a book off the shelf - or if you're like Diane, pick one of the many books you have downloaded to your Kindle or iPad - and relax outside and read.

There are a plethora of business books available on the market, but how do you know which is the best? What books should you invest your time in reading?

Diane discusses some of the current business best-sellers to add to your summer reading list as well as some new business books out in 2010.

Because Diane discusses so many books on the podcast, the following is a list of the titles and authors mentioned. If you are interested in them, listen to the podcast as Diane summarizes and comments on their merit.

Outliers - Malcolm Gladwell

Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard - Chip & Dan Heath

Rework - Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us - Daniel Pink

Superfreakonomics & Freakonomics - Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner

Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? - Seth Godin

The Tipping Point - Malcolm Gladwell

How We Decide - Jonah Leher

Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey

Nudge - Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein

Louder Than Words - Joe Navarro

The Little Big Things: 163 Ways to Pursue Excellence - Thomas J. Peters

Presentation Zen Design: Simple Design Principles and Techniques to Enhance Your Presentations - Garr Reynolds

Flip the Funnel: How to Use Existing Customers to Gain New Ones - Joseph Jaffe

Good to Great - Jim Collins

The Way We Work Isn't Working - Tony Schwartz, Catherin McCarthy, Jean Gomes

Do More Great Work: Stop the Busywork. Start the Work that Matters - Michael Bungay Stanier

Veteran Owned Business

2010-05-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

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Veteran Owned Business

In honor of Memorial Day, Diane has a rebroadcasting of the show devoted to veteran owned businesses with her guest Kyle Blades.

We are seeing an influx of people coming out of Iraq and opting to start their own businesses instead of going down the traditional work route; they are doing this through government backed loans through the SBA's Veterans Loan Program.

In the past we have had the good people at the SBA and our friend Eric Ness, the Wisconsin State Director for the SBA, on the show and we have even featured veteran owned businesses. Today we have invited Kyle Blades, the President and owner of "Time for a Rebel," who has stepped out of Iraq and into his own business, to share his story with us.

Differentiation: It's Not Business as Usual Anymore

2010-05-22T11:01:00.000-05:00

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Differentiation

While Diane was away on business, she thought that she would re-air one of her most talked about shows - Differentiation.

Differentiation is something that each company needs to discern for itself in order to stand apart from the rest of the marketplace, create an identity/brand, and develop a marketing strategy around.

Listen in to this popular show and brainstorm some ideas for your own business differentiators!

Wisconsin Politics with Mark O'Connell

2010-05-15T13:47:00.001-05:00

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Mark O'Connell and Robert Henken

This week our resident political expert, Mark O'Connell, is in the studio with his guest Robert Henken. Robert is the president of the Public Policy Forum, a non partisan government watchdog. The Public Policy Forum focuses its research on education, tax and economic development policy, transportation, public safety, health, public infrastructure and other quality of life concerns in and around Southeast Wisconsin.

The Forum serves the public, businesses, government and other interested constituencies by spotlighting trends, defining emerging issues and facilitating productive interaction among local governments and the private sector to promote sound and innovative policy solutions.

It tracks and compares performance for more than 250 government units in southeastern Wisconsin and suggests ways to improve their effectiveness.

Robert frequently contributes to the Forum's blog, the Millwaukee Talkie, which can be found at http://milwaukeetalkie.blogspot.com/

Risk Management

2010-05-08T10:47:00.000-05:00

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Risk Management

When we think of risk management, we think of the financial risks a company takes or the risks we personally make in investing; this is a big part of managing risk in an organization. But there is perhaps and even bigger risk in terms of risk management – the risk of not developing and managing your people.

Business owners carefully assess the ROI for most of our business decisions and put in place processes or checks and balances to ensure our business actions provide the greatest return.

What are you doing to ensure that ROI on our biggest cost and our most important asset – our human capital - is being assessed and managed in the same careful way?

Diane invited John Dirkse, Executive VP of Ageis Corporation, to help her listeners understand risk management in terms of human capital and define ways business people can ensure they are minimizing risk.

The Culture of Riding: Harleys and Business

2010-05-01T15:35:00.000-05:00

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Harleys and Business

Summer is right around the corner and the weather is finally behaving as such. When you think of summer in Southeast Wisconsin, some things automatically come to mind: outdoor grilling, boating, water sports, and what many motorcycle enthusiasts consider to be the ultimate sound of summer - the roar of a Harley motor.

In the studio is Kirk Topel, the owner of Hal's Harley-Davidson and he's going to be talking about the business of bikes - riding them, choosing one, trends, laws, costs, etc.

Before Kirk jumps into the world of motorcycles, one of our legal experts, Mike Berzowski, will be discussing another warm-weather topic: dress codes in the workplace.

With the return of warm weather, skirts get shorter, tops show more skin, and both men and women start wearing shorts and flip-flops. As a business, what is an appropriate dress code policy? What can a business actually regulate? And since talking about dress code issues is often uncomfortable for both parties involved, how do you start that conversation with someone who violates the established policy?

Listen in as Diane investigates these timely and weather-related issues!

What Health Care Reform Means for Business

2010-04-24T09:49:00.001-05:00

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While Diane was out of the studio, resident health care expert Terry Frett jumped in to talk about the health care reform bill that President Obama recently signed. Specifically, he will be discussing the timeline of changes that will impact employers who currently offer group health insurance plans to their employees and the impact on those who do not. Terry starts this timeline right now and walks through changes made through 2014.

Terry doesn't stop there. Not on does he outline what changes will be happening when, he also outlines what an employer needs to know to prepare for these changes and the potential impact these changes will have on your health insurance plan premiums.

This show is a listening must for anyone with questions about health care reform and what it means for businesses everywhere.

The World of Business Communications

2010-04-17T14:02:00.000-05:00

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Business Communications with Jason Kayzar

Technology drives most of what we do every day in business and in our personal lives. Most of us are always looking for the latest and greatest technological toy or gizmo and cellular technology is on top of our watch-list.

This week, Diane has her friend, Jason Kayzar, to come on the show to talk about new innovations and challenges within the world of technology and answer all your questions about how to have the best communication experience.

Buying Local

2010-04-10T08:58:00.002-05:00

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Buy Local, Milwaukee

Last week, Diane had the opportunity to speak with several small business owners in and around Southeastern Wisconsin. Their success and continued existence relies on the patronage of their customers. Buying local is a trend that has exploded with the organic and environmental movements; however, it has profound implications for businesses unassociated with food products and the local economy.

For this show, Diane brings Nancy Quinn to the studio. She works with Our Milwaukee, a business alliance that advocates for locally owned businesses that provide a genuine, quality experience - in celebration of our community's unique character. It is the locally owned businesses that maintain Milwaukee's unmistakable style. Our Milwaukee has 175 business members who range from retailers to restaurants to business-to-business/service providers.

Listen in to hear Nancy speak about what buying local really means, the benefits of patronage to local businesses, and the awareness campaign they are running during the month of April.

Entrepreneur Open Mic Day

2010-04-03T09:39:00.003-05:00

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Entrepreneur Open Mic

This week, Diane decided it was your turn to talk, Milwaukee! She opened up the show to the entrepreneurs around the area to call in and talk a little bit about what they have done in the past and how their business is doing now.

Listen in to hear from entrepreneurs like yourself this show.

BizStarts Milwaukee

2010-03-27T15:13:00.000-05:00

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BizStarts Milwaukee

Recently, there has been such a depression and gloom surrounding the topic of business and small companies. However, the positive is often neglected. This week Diane looks to the bright side of things - funding sources and new business start-up opportunities.

Dan Steininger of BizStarts Milwaukee joined Diane in the studio this week. BizStarts supports the efforts of entrepreneurs in several capacities. It attempts to connect entrepreneurs with the right resources to improve, grow the the number of fast-growing companies in Milwaukee, promote and create a strong entrepreneurial business climate in Milwaukee, and create an infrastructure specifically designed to nurture and grow innovative, fast-growing companies and play an instrumental role in promoting entrepreneurship in educational institutions.

Fifth Annual Micro Entrepreneur Expo

2010-03-20T09:03:00.002-05:00

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WCTC Expo

Paul Decker joined Diane in the studio this week as they discussed the Fifth Annual Micro Entrepreneur Expo taking place on Wednesday, April 7, 2010. Paul is the president of Positive Presentations and will be the Emcee of the conference.

This year the small business strategy the conference will be exploring is fusion marketing. Fusion marketing involves embracing the beauty and advantage of cooperation with the goal of mutual profitability. Diane will be presenting on this intriguing topic and the conference and gives a preview of what she'll be discussing then on this week's radio show.

Women Putting Their Stamp on Metro Milwaukee

2010-03-13T15:30:00.000-06:00

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Women Putting Their Stamp on Metro Milwaukee

This year Diane received the honor of being named the Business award winner for the annual "Women Putting Their Stamp on Metro Milwaukee" award presented by the United States Postal Service.

In honor of the other fantastic women celebrated besides Diane this year, this show is dedicated to all 2010 winners. Diane had several guests this week, all having to do with this spectacular award. The three award winners she featured are as follows:

Doralyn Wilson, the Postal Service winner for 2010, spoke with Diane about her position in the postal service and what motivates her.

Kathryn Dunn, of the Helen Bader Foundation, was this year's winner for the Diversity Champion Award. She provided more information about her organization and discussed her greatest motivation in life.

Leslie Myers, the Abilities Awareness winner for this year, completed our lineup of this year's winners. She works for Independence First and shared her advice to young women across Milwaukee - with and without disabilities.

Congratulations to all of the winners for their accomplishments and what they have done for Milwaukee!

10 Rookie Manager Mistakes

2010-03-09T11:20:00.002-06:00

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Rookie Manager Mistakes

Business owners have had to make many internal changes to manage this lagging economy. With all the layoffs and downsizing, many employees have been asked to step into roles they have little or no training for and, in some cases, no inherent skills. Managing is hard work – motivation is even more difficult.

When times were good, many managers and supervisors were promoted into their jobs simply because they were the best at performing a set of specific tasks among a team of people.

However, becoming a manager requires different skills, skills that the recently promoted employee may never have been trained to do. No wonder so many mistakes are made.

This week Diane, along with Matt Hedstrom from LPI, talk about the typical mistakes managers make and things that can be done to prevent the following from happening.

Here are 10 typical mistakes made by first-time supervisors:

1. They persist in still doing their old jobs, rather than their new ones. As a result, they don’t delegate; they burn themselves out while the people who report to them can’t grow and thus feel unmotivated.

2. Out of a sense of insecurity, they sometimes view smart new people as competition, rather than assets. As a result, this de-motivates the people who could well represent their best hope for making the team a success.

3. They can be so afraid of making a mistake that they make no decision at all. By their indecisiveness, they lose the respect of their people – and with the loss of respect comes the loss of any chance to motivate people.

4. They fail to consider the consequences of their promotion on their former relationships with teammates. You can’t be best friend with a subordinate.

5. As a result of these factors, new managers play favorites based on former friendships. That destroys the morale and motivation of everyone else.

6. They see themselves as crusaders. They represent their people against the company, which is bound to end in disaster – or the other way around, which is guaranteed to turn everyone into an enemy unmotivated to perform.

7. When pressured to act unethically, they’re afraid to take a stand and do the right thing. Loss of integrity in the eyes of the workers will inevitably result in de-motivation.

8. They fail to adequately communicate laterally other managers, as well as up to their bosses and down to their own team. To be properly motivated, people can’t be kept in the dark like mushrooms.

9. They fail to reach out for help, thinking they have to be all-knowing. Admitting one doesn’t have all the answers can be an important factor in gaining respect.

10. They’re either too direct or too indirect in their dealings with their subordinates. They have a hard time finding a middle ground.

Mark O'Connell & the Angel Network

2010-02-20T09:43:00.002-06:00

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Wisconsin Angel Network

Mark opens the show this week talking about the importance of private sector business success and the positive impact that it has on the state. One of the areas where that success comes from is the start-up and stage one businesses created everyday by entrepreneurs all over the state of Wisconsin.

Businesses in their earliest stages need capital and investors to ensure their success and their ability to procure resources. This is where the Angel Network steps in, a branch of the Wisconsin Technology Council.

According to its website, the mission of the Wisconsin Angel Network (WAN) "is to build early-stage capital capacity throughout Wisconsin, increasing the number and amount of equity investments in Wisconsin's entrepreneurs."

"WAN was founded in January 2005 as an umbrella organization providing services and resources to the early-stage investing community. WAN is a public-private initiative rooted in Governor Jim Doyle's Grow Wisconsin plan and the Legislature's Act 255 initiative; it is operated by the Wisconsin Technology Council."

An angel investor is an early stage venture capitalist and is usually an accredited investor with a net worth greater than $1 million or an income greater than $200,000 for each of the last two years. Having an accredited investor exempts the entrepreneur from federal filing regulations and funding limitations. An angel network, than, is a group of venture capitalists who co-invest in business opportunities.

Mark O'Connell's guest this week is the director of the Wisconsin Angel Network, Joe Kremer. For more information about this organization, check out the website http://www.wisconsinangelnetwork.com

Differentiation

2010-02-13T10:33:00.001-06:00

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Differentiation

Last week, over St. Valentine's Day weekend, Diane had a rebroadcast of one of her most popular and insightful shows. The topic? Differentiation.

It's no longer business as usual. These times call for a greater knowledge of who you are in the business world and keener understanding of your competitive edge. It's not just about being good, it's about being different - and knowing how you're different.

How you define and position your business or brand is your secret weapon for growing your business and gaining market share. This kind of marketing is not about trying to be as good as or better than your competition – it’s about understanding and capitalizing on what sets you apart to gain a competitive edge.
Having a clear understanding of your firm’s strengths and challenges is a must if you want to differentiate yourself in the market. Once you know these things inside and out, you will be able to correctly position your business each and every time.

During this show Diane not only discusses strategies and options, but also gives an example of a company that recently worked on their differentiation. Guest Matt Hedstrom from LPI came into the studio to talk about what their firm did to better define their business, expand geographic reach, and grow their business.

Talking Politics with Mark O'Connell

2010-02-06T10:18:00.001-06:00

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Mark O'Connell with Steven Walters

Mark O'Connell was broadcasting over the airwaves with his guest Steven Walters this weekend. There is a lot to talk about in Wisconsin politics and they covered it all. Walters is an influential political journalist in Wisconsin who has talked to some of the most important people in the recent history of the state. He is also teaching two courses on journalism at UW-Madison this semester.

Thanks to both Walters' and Mark's experience, expect a lively and thoughtful conversation. They bring insight into the area of political journalism and Walters' new endeavor, WisconsinEye. This is a broadcast news, cable channel that exclusively covers the political life of Wisconsin. In addition to their broadcast channel, WisconsinEye.org serves as a resource for residents interested in all things political.

Super Bowl Advertising

2010-01-30T09:39:00.000-06:00

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Super Bowl Advertising

It's almost time for the Super Bowl and that means football, parties, and ADVERTISING! It's the most watched event of the year; over forty percent of American households will be tuned into the game - most of whom are watching only for the advertising. This unique phenomenon has companies scrambling to pick up air time during the game and the price tag is steep. This year, 30 second ad spots are selling for anywhere between $2.5 million and $3 million.

So, why this fascination with Super Bowl advertising? Do these ads really make the impact we're told they do? Can only large companies afford to get in on this phenomenon?

Diane talks with David Hanneken and Casey Flanagan, both of Laughlin Constable, to help dissect this fun and exciting topic.

Mark O'Connell

2010-01-23T12:38:00.001-06:00

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Mark O'Connell, Political Expert

This week, Mark O'Connell is on the show bringing his political know-how to the listeners. As always, he is entertaining, informative, and professional. This week he talks about the Policy Research Institute with his guest George Lightbourn.

New Year, Take Two

2010-01-16T08:49:00.001-06:00

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Preparing for the New Year

Back by popular demand! This week Diane again addressed the topic of the New Year and how to make 2010 a great one for your business.

How to Prepare for a Successful 2010

2009-12-26T12:07:00.000-06:00

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Success in 2010

2010 is just around the corner and frankly, many of us don’t know what to expect. Most of the people we work with are seeing “glimmers” of hope as new projects appear, people are submitting proposals – there appears to be some movement.

Still, we have learned of a few more companies that have had additional layoffs and even a few who have closed the doors or sold to other companies.

I have been preaching all year about two things:
• Get that it is not business as usual anymore
• Now is not the time to collapse into the fear of the unknown or think small

So, what specifically can we do to ensure 2010 can be the best it can be? Today I am going to share some key steps that I doing with my clients to get them ready to succeed in 2010.

Many businesses do not improve to their fullest potential because they are too focused in the present – trying to stay alive. They are fixated on trying to stay afloat and loss sight of the potential for real growth.

Many experts have said it not just once or twice - this is precisely the right time for any business owner to grow and change positively.

The poor economy does not mean that businesses should stop strategizing. On the contrary, poor economies should help business owners to rise up to the challenge. With a well thought out plan and strategy, businesses can definitely develop their potential to grow and be successful in their industry.

Listen in to hear the strategies that Diane suggests for a successful new year!

Going Backstage at the Florentine Opera

2009-12-19T08:23:00.001-06:00

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Going Backstage at the Florentine Opera

This week Diane had the pleasure of welcoming Bill Florescu, the General Director of the Florentine Opera, to the show. Bill and Diane discuss the business side of the arts. There are some unique challenges facing artistic businesses and Bill candidly speaks to these as well as the Opera's strategic plan and vision.

Listen to hear this engaging and expressive interview! You'll never think of the opera in the same way again.

Mark O'Connell is in the Studio

2009-12-12T09:48:00.000-06:00

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Political Expert Mark O'Connell

Our resident political expert, Mark O'Connell, is back in the studio with us this week! Mark is the Executive Director for the Wisconsin Counties Association and it is always delightful when he can come in to share his insights.

Listen in to hear Mark fill his audience in on political and business issues affecting all of Wisconsin's 72 counties.

Benefits of Private Club Membership

2009-12-05T11:14:00.000-06:00

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Private Clubs

This week Mike Berzowski of Weiss Berzowski Brady, LLP brought John Constantine as a guest on the show. John is the General Manager for the Wisconsin Club, a private club in downtown Milwaukee.

They discussed some benefits of belonging to a private club as a business owner; it was noted that the Wisconsin Club offers a variety of amenities that can be used to entertain client as well as offer an exceptional opportunity to network with the members of the club and the businesses they are associated with.

In addition to discussing these benefits, they spoke about the business of running a club. People often forget that these clubs are a business like any other and are responsible for employees, turning a profit, and providing their customers with excellent service.

The Current Status of Healthcare Reform

2009-11-14T11:31:00.001-06:00

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Healthcare Reform: A Business Owner's Perspective

This week Terry Frett, of Frett Barrington Limited, was on the show to discuss the current status of healthcare reform from a business owner's perspective.

We have seen the completion of the House of Representative’s work on a formal bill that has now passed out of the House. This most recent development in healthcare has a big impact on small businesses in Wisconsin. Terry discusses important themes including employer mandate, individual mandate, new taxes, and health insurance reforms.

Why is healthcare reform such a hot issue right now? Well, fewer and fewer Americans have health insurance, and therefore cannot afford good medical care. Nearly 46 million Americans have no insurance, and 25 million more are underinsured. One major reason for this crisis is that many employers have stopped offering insurance to employees because of the high cost. In the United States, total health care spending was $2.4 trillion in 2007 -- or $7,900 per person -- according to an analysis published in the journal Health Affairs. The United States spends 52 percent more per person than the next most costly nation, Norway, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. There's little debate that health care reform is necessary -- President Obama, Republican and Democratic members of Congress, the American Medical Association and America's Health Insurance Plans, which represents the insurance industry, all have agreed the system needs to be changed, although they disagree on how to do it.

What Makes a Successful Entrepreneur?

2009-11-07T09:06:00.000-06:00

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What Makes a Successful Entrepreneur?

The minds of those who have the ability to turn their ideas into a profitable business are exceptionally different than those that haven't taken that leap. True, there are environmental factors in play, but these exceptional people take a risk that most of us wouldn't dream of: taking the imaginary and turing it into reality.

Barry White, our resident legal expert, is in the studio today for Diane, who is away on business. He brings one of his favorite successful entrepreneurs, Dean Morfey, who owns an orthotic and prosthetics company called Morfey's Limbs and Braces.

Join us as Dean shares his personal journey from a boating accident to a successful orthotics business. It will be one that inspires and intrigues you to explore the small business arena and contemplate the possiblity of entrepreneurship for yourself!

The Business of Horror - Halloween as a $6 Billion Industry

2009-10-31T10:09:00.000-05:00

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The Business of Horror

For most of us Halloween was celebrated by carving pumpkins, parents and kids going trick-or-treating, and for some – watching a scary movie. Halloween is more than just playing dress up! The spookiest holiday of the year doubles as a $5 billion dollar industry. Did you know that more than 60% of Americans have a hankering for haunting, spending over $50 each year on costumes, candy, and decorations. In fact, IBISWorld, a national research firm said that Halloween sales are expected to reach a record-breaking $6 billion in 2009, up 4.2 percent from the $5.77 billion generated last year.

Today things have changed in the Business of Horror. Visiting a local haunted house is NOW the traditional way to celebrate the Halloween season. Parents still take their kids trick-or-treating, but adults who were mere teenagers when the haunted house industry blossomed 10 or 15 years ago are still visiting haunted houses today, along with a new generation of haunted scream fans.

Haunted houses have now become bigger than anyone could have ever imagined with some haunted attractions bigger than entire football fields and costing millions of dollars to produce.

The haunted house industry is a multi-million dollar industry with major vendors like Scarefactory, Distortions, Ghost Ride and so many more who provide innovative animations, special effects, costumes, and products

Haunted attractions have gotten so big that most major attraction owners no longer need to hold full time jobs to make ends meet. They’ve quit their normal 9-5 gigs and now work year round on their haunted house. In this day and age of high tech movies, video games, and interactive entertainment, the Halloween Attraction industry has had to take its game to new FRIGHTS!

Today we are talking with Mike "Beaker" Parpovich with Terror on the Fox, the nation's number one charity haunted house to discuss the business side of creating an exceptional haunted house!

Growing a Family Business

2009-10-28T13:59:00.000-05:00

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Growning a Family Business

The family business. It is a dying breed in our country. No longer is the son or daughter following in the footsteps of the father like they did in days past. But there are some success stories of family businesses that have not only succeeded, but are excelling and growing.

One such business in our area is Stan's Fit For Your Feet. Founded in 1950 by Stan and Em Sajdak, this locally owned shoe business has been a family owned for almost 60years with their 1st store on 27th street just south of Oklahoma.

Managing and growing any business is a challenge, but add the family component to it and a whole new range of challenges and opportunities arise.

Top that with the fact that all retailers have been hit hard in this economy - independents in particular are even harder pressed to differentiate themselves and grow market share.

In the studio with us today is Jim Sajdak the third generation owner of Stans… He, along with the 4th generation, his son David Sajdak, and his sister Sue Sakwinski are still making things happen.

Jim is going to share with us some of the many interesting and innovative things he is doing to keep his small family business a thriving business.

Customer Service - Don't Just Say You Have It, Do It!

2009-10-17T12:32:00.002-05:00

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Customer Service

Your business would not exist without customers. And if you have customers, you have to have customer service.
Everybody talks about the importance of good customer service, but until a customer has a problem – “Quality” and “Service” are simply words in a company’s slogan.
So why is customer service so important to a successful business?
• Customers have more options today than ever before - and as a result they feel less loyalty.
• We are an immediate gratification society – know what we want and we want it now - faster, cheaper, and quicker and many times we are not that particular who will provide them.
Make a customer angry or simply give them a poor experience - and chances are you've got a nasty rumor going around to ten of his colleagues that you're a lousy firm to do business with.
And in the age of emails and text messages, twitter and other quick sources – it makes it even easier for customers to spread the word on their dissatisfaction with a company that does not live up to the products and services they promote.

6 Year Anniversary

2009-10-10T12:16:00.000-05:00

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Anniversary Show

This marks Diane's 6th year on air, bringing small business owners the information they crave. In honor of the occassion, this show is dedicated to all of the listeners who are small business owners to promote what they do and give an outlet for them to inform others how to contact them.

Additionally, a discussion of Milwaukee's own entrepreneurs is included - Milwaukee is ranked 17th in the top regions for entrepreneurial endeavors.

Creating Your Story

2009-09-26T09:54:00.000-05:00

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Creating Your Story

Join Roi Solberg in the studio today as she talks about defining what we believe about our businesses and how changing what you believe about your business, shifting your story can create more success.

It is not business as usual anymore. We must be looking at our businesses in very different ways. Staying in the same patterns or using the same strategies or processes and sometimes utilizing the same people will not create better results.

You can’t keep doing, thinking and acting in the same ways and expect different results.

Have you considered changing your story or what you think and believe about your business or your current situation in your strategies to do things differently in your business?

What is the story you believe about your business? Is that what you are creating?

Healthy, Purposeful and Productive Spaces

2009-09-19T14:00:00.001-05:00

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Healthy, Purposeful and Productive Spaces

Author, award winning designer, business owner, and educational speaker, Lyn Falk, has earned national praise for her holistic, innovative, results driven design philosophy. Ms. Falk has devoted the past 25 years to teaching and helping retailers and business professionals build healthy, purposeful and productive spaces that move hearts, minds & merchandise. Her expertise in retail design, business, science, and consumer psychology has helped her develop designs that not only meet, but often exceed, her client’s projected goals/sales. She wrote and produced Healthy Style, an hour special on public TV for healthy, eco-friendly design and living.

Listen in to learn what, exactly, a healthy, purposeful and productive space is, how to achieve such a space while maintaining a "green" lifestyle, and how results come to fruition in a healthy space.

Rhythm & Brews with Barry White

2009-09-12T13:40:00.000-05:00

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Rhythm & Brews

Resident legal expert Barry White invites guest Chris Green to the studio to discuss how you can turn your ideas into reality. Chris Green recently broke into the restaurant business with his new venture, Rhythm & Brews. Hear firsthand his entrepreneurial story and learn how you, too, can turn your ideas into moneymaking opportunities.

Differentiating Your Business

2009-08-29T11:32:00.003-05:00

It’s no longer business as usual. These times call for a greater knowledge of who you are in the business world and keener understanding of your competitive edge. It’s not just about being good, it’s about being different—and knowing how you’re different.

How you define and position your business or brand is your secret weapon for growing your business and gaining market share. This kind of marketing is not about trying to be as good as or better than your competition – it’s about understanding and capitalizing on what sets you apart to gain a competitive edge.

Matt Hedstrom, VP at Laminated Products Inc. shares their firms model on how they better defined their brand and repositioned their business for growth and success.

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Differentiating Your Business

August is Port Month

2009-08-22T14:44:00.000-05:00

Today Mark O'Connell, Executive Director of Wisconsin Counties Association and our Resident Political Expert, has Eric Reinelt, Milwaukee's Port Manager on to talk about August being "Port Month". Tune in to hear about the history of the Port, why the Port is so important to our community and the Port's economic influence on Milwaukee.

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August is Port Month

Kyle Blades - Veterans in Small Business

2009-08-15T14:20:00.001-05:00

As our veterans return home from Iraq, many find that owning their own business is the answer to the next phase of their life. Couple that with the fact that the SBA is making loans to Veterans through traditional and stimulus programs, and you’ve spelled entrepreneurship. This week, Diane invites Kyle Blades, president of Rebel, LLC, on the show to discuss how he started his veteran-owned business, Rebel, a company that specializes in customized consumer outreach. They research consumers in order to help clients create a message that sticks out from the white noise of the world.

Veterans In Business

Like Kind Exchanges – How do I Transition Real Estate and Not Pay Taxes

2009-07-25T15:04:00.002-05:00

In these times we are all looking to make or keep as much money as possible. It is not unusual for us to sell real estate that we own – either our homes or our businesses for added revenue.

Anytime we transition property to another person, something happens from a tax perspective. There are provisions in our tax laws that say that in these type of exchanges – you don’t have to pay the tax.

Sound good – it is but with the advantages the tax laws allow come some potential challenges. To help us sort through the benefits and challenges of transitioning real estate - we have asked tax expert John Sikora who is a partner from our Resident Legal Expert firm – Weiss Berzowski Brady.

JOHN A. SIKORA is a partner in the Milwaukee and Delafield offices of Weiss Berzowski Brady LLP, where his practice includes tax planning, tax controversies, real estate law and corporate law.
He is a current member of the Board of Directors of the State Bar Taxation Section. He is an adjunct professor of law at Marquette University Law School where he teaches the corporate income tax and tax practice and procedure courses.

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Like Kind Exchanges

Terry Frett - President of Frett/Barrington Limited

2009-07-18T14:52:00.003-05:00

Health care is the hot topic in Congress lately, but what is really being discussed behind closed doors? This week, resident benefits expert Terry Frett comes in to discuss the current process taking place in Washington, D.C. regarding the development of health care reform. What shape will health care take, how will the reform impact employers, and how will they pay for it?

Terry Frett is the president of Frett/Barrington Limited. For more information on Frett/Barrington Limited, visit www.frettbarrington.com.

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Terry Frett

Mergers and Acquisitions are not Four-Letter Words

2009-07-11T13:00:00.001-05:00

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Mergers & Acquisitions

Guests:
Adam Lerner, president of Packaging Products for Marlin Equities
Mark Siegel, president of Ultra Pro

Mergers and acquisitions are no longer dirty words. Twenty or even ten years ago, when we heard a company was being acquired, we had visions of Gordon Gecko, hatchet men and employees running for cover! Today, mergers and acquisitions are not only a normal part of business, but they are used as growth strategies, particularly for small businesses.

The Benefits of Taking Vacation Time

2009-07-04T13:00:00.000-05:00

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Vacation

Guests:
The Chamness Group Team

Today, Diane brings in the team from Chamness Group to discuss the benefits of taking your well-deserved vacation time. The benefits of time off certainly outweigh the hassle of breaking out of the office. Listen in for advice on how to prepare in advance for your vacation in order to ensure each day off is a success.

Good Works by St. Aemilian-Lakeside

2009-06-27T13:00:00.001-05:00

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St. Aemilian

Guests:
Teri Zywicki, President and CEO of St. Aemilian
Ann Umhoefer, Chief Operating Officer of St. Aemilian

There are many groups and organizations doing wonderful things in our community of which we are often unaware. This week, Diane invites two very special guests to discuss the good works St. Aemilian-Lakeside has been doing throughout Milwaukee.

St. Aemilian-Lakeside provides innovative family-centered care and educational services that embrace diversity and empower children, families, and adults to improve the quality of their lives. It is no wonder why they were recently named the 2008 Alliance Agency of the Year.

WEAC: The Heart of Wisconsin Education

2009-06-20T13:00:00.002-05:00

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WEAC

Resident Political Expert Mark O'Connell,
Executive Director for the Wisconsin Counties Association
with special guest:
Dan Burkhalter, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC)

K-12 education is critically important. It shapes the lives of the 5 to 17 year olds who will someday be the wealth generators of the state of Wisconsin. This week, Mark O'Connell invites Executive Director of WEAC Dan Burkhalter to discuss how WEAC is helping to shape Wisconsin education.

As Burkhalter explains, WEAC is more than just a "teacher's union." Rather, its 98,000 members consists of teachers, early childhood educators, instructors/staff of technical colleges, teachers in the department of corrections, retired teachers, and student members who will soon become teachers. Together, they represent the best of those working in public education in Wisconsin.

Summerfest

2009-06-13T13:00:00.000-05:00

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Summerfest

Guests:
Don Smiley, Summerfest President and CEO
John Boler, Summerfest VP of Sales and Marketing

Summerfest, Milwaukee’s biggest and perhaps most loved festival, has come to define summer in Milwaukee. But it’s no easy task to make Summerfest live up to its long-standing reputation. Hundreds of people work all year long to ensure the 11-day festival is a success. Don’t miss this exciting show when Diane is joined by Don Smiley, Summerfest President and CEO, and John Boler, Summerfest VP of Sales and Marketing. They will explain what it takes to coordinate and implement such a massive event, as well as give the inside scoop on what to look forward to at Summerfest this year.

People with Disabilities

2009-06-06T10:47:00.002-05:00

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People with Disabilities

Guest: Dinah Chaudoir-Federerbr, author of “Chasing Normal: A Guide for the Newly Disabled”

What would you do if you or a loved one woke up tomorrow with a disability? How would you cope if you couldn’t do what you loved best in your spare time? How would you know what to do if someone you loved needed your emotional support in coping with the on-set of a new disability? These questions are quite fear provoking and yet very real. Given that we have soldiers coming home daily with permanent disabilities, these questions are multiplying exponentially in our country.

Join Diane and our guest Dinah Federer, author of “Chasing Normal: A Guide for the Newly Disabled.” "Chasing Normal" is a compelling account of life with a disability from two remarkable perspectives and is a must-read for anyone who has or is connected to someone with a disability. You can also check out Dinah's website at http://www.chasing-normal.com to learn more.

Differentiation

2009-05-09T15:05:00.001-05:00

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Differentiation

Diane shares her value packed presentation from the 2009 Society for Marketing Professional Services Conference.

Creativity

2009-05-02T14:57:00.001-05:00

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Creativity

Our guest today has written a fairy tale, but don’t be alarmed that we have changed “Business Solutions” to a children’s program! As we’re going to find out in today’s show, author Augustine Campana, a former accountant, scribed his first book, a fairy tale titled “The Last Fairy,” to not only entertain readers with a great story but also to teach life lessons on creativity in business and throughout life.

The Future of Marketing - Society for Marketing Professional Services Regional Conference

2009-04-25T14:40:00.003-05:00

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SMPS Regional Conference

The Society for Marketing Professional Services Midwest Regional Conference will be the premier marketing event in 2009. It will be held at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison, Wisconsin, on May 6-8th. This well-attended event will feature speakers like Tom Farley of Farley BDG with his funny and insightful presentation on Brand Powered Growth to a full agenda of more than a dozen speakers and roundtable leaders including WISN Business Solutions’ host, Diane Chamness. The Conference will focus on high quality seminars and educational programs with a focus on — Next Generation Marketing.

Biz Times - Biz Tech Conference-Expo

2009-04-18T14:37:00.001-05:00

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Biz Tech Expo

Dan Meyer, publisher of the Biz Times, will talk about this year’s exciting Biz Tech Conference-Expo to be held April 29-30th at the Wisconsin Exposition Center at State Fair Park. If you haven’t been to the conference, it is not to be missed. If you have attended in the past, this year promises to be even better – network with business leaders, showcase your business and listen to some of the best business speakers around. Be shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of professionals looking for new products and services like yours.

Meeting Economic Challenges with the Right Team

2009-04-04T15:03:00.001-05:00

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Meeting Economic Challenges with the Right Team

Make no mistake about it. The most valuable assets in your organization walks in the door in the morning, and out at night! Unfortunately, many of us have had to make staffing cuts, salary and hiring freezes in recent times which has impacted that asset.
The good news about the economy is that it is giving us time to take a closer look at our internal teams and who in our business is best equipped to help us move from scarcity to prosperity.
Smart business owners are not just making cuts but carefully evaluating all staff – VPs to line staff – before making any changes that we may regret as we move into better times.

The same care, thought, and rigorous analysis should be given to decisions on the capital invested in employees as would be to a factory or a production line. A factory can be reopened, or a production line restarted, much more easily than employees trust in their management or faith in the company's vision can be restored after a layoff.

Today will share key steps to managing your human capital and on how evaluating and restructuring can strengthen your market position and even mitigate cuts.

Restructuring Your Team to Better Meet Economic Challenges

2009-04-04T14:28:00.000-05:00

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Restructuring

The good news about the economy is that it has given us time to take a closer look at our internal teams and who in our business is best equipped to help us move from scarcity to prosperity. Smart business owners are not just making cuts but carefully evaluating all staff – VPs to line staff – before making any changes that we may regret as we move into better times. Diane will share key steps to managing your human capital and on how evaluating and restructuring can strengthen your market position and even mitigate cuts.

2009 Micro Entrepreneur Expo

2009-03-28T14:46:00.003-05:00

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Micro Entrepreneur Conference 2009

Guest Paul Decker of Positive Presentations and Emcee of the conference, held at WCTC’s Richard T. Anderson Education Center, will share why every entrepreneur should attend this action packed and very valuable conference. The Expo is a major networking event filled with opportunities to build relationships with business professionals, potential customers, outstanding sponsors and other like-minded entrepreneurs. Who knows where the right connection might take your business. For more information contact www.wctc.edu

Cellular and Wireless Communication

2009-03-21T14:49:00.001-05:00

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Cellular and Wireless Communication

This week Diane invites Jason Kayzar, president of MC2, on air for the second time to answer all of your cellular and wireless communication questions. Jason has insider tips about specific applications that help generate revenue, such as GPS tracking, work order flow and wireless email. The lines will be open all hour, so take advantage of this opportunity to fine-tune the technological aspects of your business.

Employment Law with Mike Berzowski of Weiss Berzowski Brady, LLP

2009-03-14T14:51:00.002-05:00

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Employment Law

Join us as Resident Legal Expert and partner at the law firm of Weiss, Berzowski Brady, Mike Berzowski talks about a range of critical employment law issues facing businesses owners including:
• Independent contractors vs. employees
• The Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and the Paycheck Fairness Act
• Religion in the workplace
• Changes to the Family Medical Leave Act and the Healthy Families Act

…and most importantly, the pending Wisconsin legislation and the Milwaukee sick days rule that is on the minds of all Milwaukee business owners!

Mark O’Connell, Wisconsin Counties Association

2009-02-28T14:53:00.001-06:00

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My first song

Mark O’ Connell, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Counties Association will talk about the many major events happening at a State level. Mark’s unique insights as the head of our county’s key lobbying organization will bring light to the many challenges and opportunities we face in Wisconsin.

Stimulus Package-Winners & Losers

2009-02-14T15:00:00.001-06:00

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Stimulus Package-Winners & Losers

Today we are going to:

• Share the Winners and Losers of the Economic Stimulus Package

• Highlight Businesses that are doing well in this Economy

• Discuss strategies you can implement now - to keep your business vital

Keeping Your Current Job or Getting A New Job - What Do I Need To Do?

2009-01-10T14:23:00.001-06:00

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Finding the Right Job

Michael Steinmetz, Vice President and General Manager of Manpower's Midwest Division, leads all operations for Manpower's staffing business in eight states. Micheal brings perspective on the current job market and advises listeners, both employers and employees, on what to look for. Individuals should consider certain things if they want to be indispensable. Employers want to keep those employees that are reliable, trustworthy and productive. Listen to how employers can best retain those star employees.

Roi Solberg on Starting the Year Off Right

2009-01-03T14:19:00.001-06:00

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Starting the Year Off Right

Roi Solberg, intuitive consultant, author, speaker and teacher is a new voice in an old world. Using her intuitive insights, she has helped people reconnect to the passion of life as they find new purpose and meaning in each day. Now she shares her wisdom and experience with you to 'Start Your New Year Off Right!'

Chamness Group's Christmas Show

2008-12-27T14:17:00.000-06:00

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Christmas Show

’Tis the season. Diane celebrates the holiday with a special show! As a gift to listeners this week, Diane invited entrepreneurs to call into the show and advertise their business on air. Calls were accepted between 1p.m. and 2p.m. to take advantage of this opportunity. Diane took numerous promo calls during the hour as her holiday gift to the listeners. Happy Holidays!

Mark O'Connell, Political Expert from Wisconsin Counties Association

2008-12-20T14:11:00.002-06:00

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Year End Update

The New Year is fast approaching. This week, our Resident Political Expert makes his last update of 2008. Be sure to join Mark O'Connell as he fills you in on political and business issues affecting all of Wisconsin's 72 counties.

Cellular and Wireless Communication

2008-12-06T15:00:00.000-06:00

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Cellular and Wireless Communication Show

Diane invites Jason Kayzar, president of MC2, on air to answer all of your cellular and wireless communication questions. Jason has insider tips about specific applications that help generate revenue, such as GPS tracking, work order flow and wireless email. Callers were able to take advantage of the opportunity to fine-tune the technological aspects of their own business.

Small Business Times Makes Big Announcement

2008-11-08T13:00:00.001-06:00

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Small Biz Times Show

Big things are happening at the Small Business Times! This week, guest Dan Meyer, publisher of Small Business Times, will unveil a major announcement about the publication. Meyer will also discuss how the newspaper is growing its brand at a time when many print publications are struggling to maintain readership.

Presidential Platforms

2008-10-18T13:00:00.000-05:00

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Presidential Platforms Show

Given that the upcoming election is so important, this show is dedicated to the presdiential candidates – John McCain and Barack Obama. Representatives from both sides call in to explain what each candidate wants to do for business.

Recruiting and Retaining the White Collar Workforce

2008-10-11T13:00:00.004-05:00

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sySTEM Now Show

The labor force is dwindling by the day. This includes candidates for “white collar” jobs: the technical, scientific, engineering or mathematics professions. How do we attract and retain these workers? One group, Engineers & Scientists of Milwaukee, has launched STEM 7 to do just that. This program ensures that enough young people get exposed to and choose careers in these critical white collar sectors. Join Diane and her guests – Van Walling, executive director of Engineers & Scientists of Milwaukee, and Laura Baker, coordinator of Career and Technical Education for Milwaukee Public Schools – to discuss this important initiative.

Business Solutions 5th Anniversary Show

2008-10-04T13:00:00.003-05:00

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Anniversary Show

This week marks the 5th anniversary of Business Solutions. To celebrate, Diane shares some of her best-kept secrets. She reveals what it takes to be a successful business – no matter what. For example, times of economic downturn are when you should really evaluate your marketing and sales efforts to ensure they are leading you to accomplish your vision.

Building Healthy Leaders

2008-09-27T13:00:00.005-05:00

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Healthy Leaders Show

In these times, stress has become a way of life. Financial crisises, election, businesses worry about the future and some laying off staff. There is no end to the stresses in our day. If you are in a leadership role, your level of stress is often compounded by the responsibility of that leadership. How can we better deal with the challenges at work and in life and manage stress?

This week Diane invites Kalpana (Rose) Kumar, M.D., CEO of The Ommani Center for Integrative Medicine in Pewaukee, to the show. Kumar, a doctor trained in multiple health frameworks, works with executives to develop leadership from the inside out. Learn how this unique approach helps you to achieve greater levels of success, peace and total wellness. You can learn more about the Ommani Center at www.ommanicenter.com.

Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce

2008-09-13T13:00:00.002-05:00

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Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce Show

Dee Olsen, Executive Director of Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce, is one of the most tenured chamber executives in Wisconsin. Her chamber career spans 37 years, including the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce and, presently, the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce. Dee brings unique insights about developing business through chamber involvement. She also shares with the audience the many new developments in Sheboygan County and new directions the organization has undertaken.

Guest: Dee Olsen, Executive Director, Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce