This blog is about corporate communications and culture. So why is it called “BS and Band Music?”

Here’s the story.

I’ve worked as a communications leader and advisor in the C-Suite for more than 25 years. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some really smart, innovative and dynamic leaders.

One of the best leaders I’ve worked with is John Lumelleau. He recently retired after 15 years as President and CEO of Lockton, a global insurance broker.

John is a tall, broad-shouldered...

I grew up in a small town, a really small town.

Mercer, Missouri never had more than 400 residents. A small bandstand still stands in the town square. Back when Mercer was more prosperous, the square included a drug store, two grocery stores, a lumber yard, the bank, the post office, and Sammy’s barber shop.

Every other Saturday, Mom sent me to Sammy’s for a haircut. Sammy worked alone, but he had five or six chairs in the waiting area, so it made the perfect place for the guys to sit...

‘Tis the season. Who doesn’t love to receive beautifully wrapped presents from family and friends?

It’s EASY to be thankful for those.

But as we celebrate the holidays, I’m most grateful for things that I didn’t see as a gift. Some of these gifts without wrapping seemed tough and even painful in the moment. With time to reflect, they are some of the most valuable gifts I’ve ever received.

Here is a short list of my favorite unwrapped gifts:

- Parents who say no. My folks gave our family...

I'm a words guy. That's at the core of my professional life. I develop strategic communications programs for leaders and companies. They tdepend on me to develop strategies on culture, brand and reputation, and then to share stories that engage and persuade key stakeholders.

However, in my not-so-secret second life, I shoot a lot of photos. My camera is always close at hand. You never know when a great image is going to appear. Visual storytelling is engaging and fun. Plus I love the...