Michael S. Robinson's Blog, page 3
August 2, 2013
Bagasse Is The New Black
Bagasse the new black. The sugarcane derivative that is crushed and molded to make stylish recyclable tableware is the hottest green party planning accessory on the market and has been featured in magazines from GQ to Real Simple. Forget yesteryear’s non-compostable household cleaners. Mindful consumers know EcoLogic is in.
This week, I had the pleasure of coming across three innovative industry leaders who turned their passions for making sustainable differences into pro-environment businesses.
The first is Anselm Doering, who in 2005 made solemn pinky swears with his children to create a green cleaning company that wouldn’t compromise on quality or cost efficiency. He’s kept good on his word– growing EcoLogic Solutions to produce a line of over 100 environmentally preferable cleaning products that are used in big companies from Disney to Con Ed. Doering even opted to make a name for himself by refusing to do business as usual and hiring delivery trucks fueled by recycled restaurant grease.
The next two innovators are Emily Doubilet and Jessica Holsey, founder and president of Susty Party. About five years ago, a Brooklyn based artist (Doubilet) and Harvard educated banker (Holsey) met at a party. Doubilet had been working a green-sustainable countertop manufacturing company, where it was her responsibility to throw environmentally themed events.
In doing so, she discovered that the market lacked a place for green conscious party planners to get their goods. She hatched a Susty Party plan and with Holsey, landed her brand in nationwide retailers like Whole Foods.
In today’s competitive post-recession economy, small businesses must either get green or get lost in the shuffle. We the consumer have spoken and we’ve identified a need for green sustainable supply chains within the organizations that we support. “Rainforest Alliance Certified farms produce 4.6 percent of the world’s coffee, 10.2 percent of cocoa, 11.2 percent of tea…15 percent of bananas,” and the first Forest Stewardship Council Certified television set was recently patented. It’s become impossible for business leaders to ignore the fact that green biz is good biz– and it pays big.
Now, while some company leaders like Susty Party and EcoLogic Solutions are adopting new business models for altruistic reasons, the rest must concede that developing pro-environment practices is necessary to remaining viable in today’s market. On this week’s The Michael S. Robinson Show, I sit down with Doering, Doubilet and Holsey to talk the future of sustainable business. Tune in on Saturday at 10a EST to AM970 The Answer.
Filed under: Business Savvy, Corporate Social Responsibility, Economy, Follow up, marketing, Michael S Robinson, Misc., reinvest, research, research and development, small business, Strategic Planning, Talk Radio, The Michael S. Robinson Show, women-owned business
July 25, 2013
Get Acquainted With The Musical Ms. Mason
If your morning needs some spark this Saturday, look no further than The Michael S. Robinson Show on AM970 The Answer.
Classically trained and with a broad artistic range, my musical guest captivated Broadway opposite such revered talent as Brooke Shields and Matthew Broderick. With her sensuous tone, she hypnotized audiences alongside Sting, Paul Simon, Rita Wilson and Stevie Wonder. Featured on the Grammy Award winning album Mundo with her husband Ruben Blades and with two critically lauded albums of her very own, she’s one to watch as her star soars ever upward. And she’s just begun. Meet Luba Mason!
While not yet a household name, Ms. Mason has made herself a force to be reckoned with. Selling out shows from the Blue Note to B.B. King, her fanbase swells year after year.
This Saturday, Mason joins me live on the air for The Michael S. Robinson Show to talk tunes, tours and inspiration. So listen up and call in with your questions at 966-970-9622.
Don’t forget: This week’s show will also explore both the exciting and concerning concepts of Mind Hacking as it relates to the business world and beyond.
Filed under: Audio, Events, Media, Michael S Robinson, News & Articles, Talk Radio, The Michael S. Robinson Show
July 23, 2013
Irregular New Hacks
Last month, self-described “infrastructure analyst” Edward Snowden challenged the world to a real-life game of Where’s Waldo when he fled the country after leaking classified details about the NSA’s data collection processes. He is not the first and likely won’t be the last career computer hacker to threaten the security of the millions of people who entrust their personal information to large organizations like our Department of Defense and credit card companies.
But even in the midst of all of this chaos, a more frightening new kind of hacking is gaining popularity. It hits us closer to home– where we’d least expect it. It is brain hacking.
Everyday, neuroscientists get closer and closer to making what can seem like a science fiction nightmare a reality. Already, one scientist has found a way to control human thoughts by causing experiment participants to associate certain smells with specific sounds. Today’s top companies are employing the help of neuromarketers to closely monitor our reactions and receptiveness to brand messages. And one California-based leadership development company claims to have aligned business and biology to create methods that increase team performances in the workplace.
For some, these technological and biological advances are terrifying (to put it lightly).
However, with this new knowledge and these advance tools, neuroscientists and even neuro-marketers have the ability to achieve immeasurable good. Scientists have already discovered cures for certain strains of blindness and Alzheimer’s. Companies can now create ads and messages that are equal parts engagement and entertainment.
But you tell me. Is all fair in love, war and science?
Take the poll. Then, tune in to AM970 The Answer at 10AM EST for this Saturday’s The Michael S. Robinson Show, where I’ll be joined by renowned TED speakers neuroscientist, Dr. Moran Cerf, and co-founder of SalesBrain, Patrick Renvoise.
Take Our Poll
Filed under: News & Articles, technology
July 19, 2013
Soldier Solutions: 5 Job Search Resources For Veterans
Let’s face it. We’re in the midst of a technological revolution. Thousands of jobs have been lost that will never return. And though many tech jobs have been created as a result of this phenomenon, many workers have found themselves displaced– their skills obsolete. Service men and women are returning from Afghanistan and Iraq to find that not only are their skills not easily transferable but that the less-technical jobs that were once accessible post-enlistment in prior wars are now gone. Even the quality factory jobs that once provided reasonable wages are automated by technology such as robots. The remaining jobs require tech training.
Change is difficult, but with a little planning and a lot of determination it is almost always possible. So, start fresh. Check out today’s top five resources for soldiers looking to retrain for tech-based new careers.
(1) Free training programs like the Wounded Warrior Project and Helmets to Hardhats are geared at
(2) Freelancing can equip you with the valuable experience you may need to update your resumes. guiding our nation’s troops as they transition back into civilian life by providing them with the retraining programs and career opportunities.
(3) Companies seeking veterans. There are plenty of them and some even receive tax incentives for hiring previously enlisted soldiers.
(4) Every year the government dispenses billions of dollars in grant funding. Check out www.grants.gov for programs specifically for veterans.
(5) Internships and job shadowing may not seem like the most fun, especially as an adult. However, signing up for an internship allows you to test drive a new career before spending time and energy (and sometimes money) investing in it full time.
Filed under: News & Articles
July 10, 2013
Corporate Confidential: Managing Millennials
How often do you change the cassette on your answering machine at work? Do you rely on your Rolodex? Or how about your 3 ½ inch floppies? Face it. The office environment, its processes and the workforce are changing fast. Generation-Y (born 1977-1994) is here. They are here to stay. And whether you’re thrilled about them or not, they are the future. So, what now? Can there be synergy within your multi-generational staff? And how you manage these tech-savvy, revolutionaries? Read on.
Be clear about your company culture. Hot on the heels of Generation-X (born 1966-1976), millennials were taught that being an individual was paramount. They will need unambiguous counsel about your organization’s written (and unwritten) codes of conduct in order to fit in.
Be flexible and cognizant of differences in perspective. A Gen-Y’er who sends a text instead of opting to chat face-to-face might think he or she is being more efficient instead of rude. Some millennial might prefer to telecommute instead of work in a cube. Again, be upfront about your expectations.
Understand their need to feel that they are working with purpose. Offer regular, constructive and positive feedback.
Take an interest in the well-being of your employees. Gen-Y witnessed the high levels of corporate burnout among their Baby Boom and Gen-X predecessors. They value a healthy work-life balance.
Bonus: A company-wide emphasis on health, cooperation and green sustainability goes a long way with Gen-Y.
Offer opportunities for growth. This generation was born with access to options for everything at their fingertips. Mentor them. Provide continuing learning programs. Align their career goals with company goals. The experts say these practices help to increase job loyalty.
Manage multi-generational power struggles. You must balance the innovative spirit of your young employees with the propensity for systematization in your more experienced staffers.
Recognize that they want what you want– what everybody wants…
Ultimately, no work environment will ever be perfect. However, with a little consideration, you can turn the speed, energy and technological know-how of your junior employees into favorable results for all. Besides, it wasn’t so long ago that the flower-loving baby boomers rejected cultural conventions in favor of social change or Gen-X– the “lost generation” – exceeded expectations and shook the unflattering moniker.
Filed under: News & Articles
July 9, 2013
July 8, 2013
Avoid A Paula Deen. Protect Your Professional Image.
The dramatic rise and fall of our nation’s public figures is arguably the most compelling sideshow of all time. With each new act, the media, master of the ring, flaunts fiasco after blush-rendering fiasco, while we, the public, cringe and delight at the pendulum-like ascent and demise of national heroes from Paula Deen to Anthony Weiner. None of us without fault, we often condemn and then pardon these celebrities, all too aware that the same fate might befall us should we see the pinnacle of fame. But unfortunately, not all transgressions are forgiven, and our stars and even our businesses are sometimes enduringly indebted to the price of their PR nightmares.
Avoid such a fate with these 10 tips:
(1) Watch what you say, send, post… and if possible, what you think. Like it or not, you will almost always have an audience who will form an opinion of you based on the messages you transmit.
(2) Ferret out birds of a feather. Loosed lips friends and inconsiderate family members can ruin your rep.
(3) Ponder the past.The internet never forgets, and the abusive missiles you discharged yesterday could harm you tomorrow. Clean up your questionable posts ASAP.
(4) Play a positive note. On the June 9, 2013 One Hundred Pennies, Mallory and Bianca of Small Girls PR taught us all that slandering the competition will only backfire.
(5) Transparency and sincerity are the new black. They work with everything.
(6) Err on the side of caution with a crisis communication plan. You’ll be glad you were safe and not sorry.
(7) Regularly monitor your reputation. Google yourself. Check your company’s reviews. Curtail future image injuries by finding out what your potential employers, competition and/or clientele are saying and seeing about you.
(8) Enlist strong passwords and privacy settings. They are there to protect you.
(9) Show a little restraint. See tip 3. Think before you tweet.
(10) Consistency is king. Your professional brand is a product that must be appropriately marketed. Think about it. People won’t likely by (or buy from) a vegan-friendly, sustainable food market whose CEO hunts rhinos on the weekends. 
[Images via 1, 2, 3, 4]
Filed under: Business Savvy, Corporate Social Responsibility, marketing, Media, research, research and development, small business, social media, women-owned business
July 3, 2013
Informed On Today’s Immigration Reform?
An estimated 11 million people dwelling in America’s shadows figuratively and literally rejoiced as the Senate passed an exhaustive, bipartisan bill that could light their potential pathway to citizenship last week. For skilled workers like journalist José Antonio Vargas, the decision simply signified an opportunity to obtain an American driver’s license, passport and working papers. But for millions of others, the hotly debated immigration reform means much more. It is their chance at a new life.
Today, one of the most contentious issues surrounding the bill is its impact on the nation’s economy and GDP. Economists, historians and social scientists have conducted their research and pored over the facts and the verdict of the majority is out. Comprehensive immigration reform would boost the United States’ GDP by $1.5 trillion dollars. Here’s how:
You know the saying about death and taxes. Thus, you know that all Americans must eventually answer to Uncle Sam. Dr. Raul Hinojosa-Ojeda of the North American Integration and Development Center estimates that extending legal status to the millions of undocumented workers not currently paying taxes or into social security would increase the country’s tax revenue and federal programs by $120 billion.
All would be fair in love, war… and business. Every day, honest business owners lose market share due to their unwillingness to hire illegal aliens for low wages. With new immigration reforms, companies would be better equipped to compete with each other. Additionally, American industries would all benefit from a boost in skilled labor via an increase in H1B Visas.
Immigrants understand America’s entrepreneurial spirit. In fact, the SBA says that immigrants make our economy stronger. Immigrants are twice as likely to take advantage of the ‘American Dream’ by starting a business. Immigrants are also responsible for founding over 25% of America’s tech and engineering firms started from 1995 to 2005. Also, immigrant-owned enterprises, like Chobani founded by Hamdi Ulikaya of Turkey, provide millions of jobs.
Remember Reagan? Yes, President Reagan. His administration “saw the biggest decline ever of undocumented workers crossing the border after IRCA” – or the Immigration Reform and Control Act that cranked up the consequences for hiring illegal immigrants and offered legal status to certain undocumented workers. [Note: The average cost of deporting a person is $8,318.]
Cashing in on increased consumer spend. Once legal, the average immigrant worker would see an increase in earnings of about 10%. And as a recent radio commercial reminds us all, shopping is America’s favorite pastime.
Filed under: News & Articles
Get Informed On Today’s Immigration Reform
An estimated 11 million people dwelling in America’s shadows figuratively and literally rejoiced as the Senate passed an exhaustive, bipartisan bill that could light their potential pathway to citizenship last week. For skilled workers like journalist José Antonio Vargas, the decision simply signified an opportunity to obtain an American driver’s license, passport and working papers. But for millions of others, the hotly debated immigration reform means much more. It is their chance at a new life.
Today, one of the most contentious issues surrounding the bill is its impact on the nation’s economy and GDP. Economists, historians and social scientists have conducted their research and pored over the facts and the verdict of the majority is out. Comprehensive immigration reform would boost the United States’ GDP by $1.5 trillion dollars. Here’s how:
You know the saying about death and taxes. Thus, you know that all Americans must eventually answer to Uncle Sam. Dr. Raul Hinojosa-Ojeda of the North American Integration and Development Center estimates that extending legal status to the millions of undocumented workers not currently paying taxes or into social security would increase the country’s tax revenue and federal programs by $120 billion.
All would be fair in love, war… and business. Every day, honest business owners lose market share due to their unwillingness to hire illegal aliens for low wages. With new immigration reforms, companies would be better equipped to compete with each other. Additionally, American industries would all benefit from a boost in skilled labor via an increase in H1B Visas.
Immigrants understand America’s entrepreneurial spirit. In fact, the SBA says that immigrants make our economy stronger. Immigrants are twice as likely to take advantage of the ‘American Dream’ by starting a business. Immigrants are also responsible for founding over 25% of America’s tech and engineering firms started from 1995 to 2005. Also, immigrant-owned enterprises, like Chobani founded by Hamdi Ulikaya of Turkey, provide millions of jobs.
Remember Reagan? Yes, President Reagan. His administration “saw the biggest decline ever of undocumented workers crossing the border after IRCA” – or the Immigration Reform and Control Act that cranked up the consequences for hiring illegal immigrants and offered legal status to certain undocumented workers. [Note: The average cost of deporting a person is $8,318.]
Cashing in on increased consumer spend. Once legal, the average immigrant worker would see an increase in earnings of about 10%. And as a recent radio commercial reminds us all, shopping is America’s favorite pastime.
Filed under: News & Articles
July 2, 2013
DOMA, Dollars & Sense: The Economic Benefit Of Equality
SCOTUS struck down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) that barred same-sex couples from receiving hundreds of the marital benefits allotted to different-sex married couples last Wednesday. Most noticeably, the decision– which passed symbolically at the apex of the Gay Pride season– impacts the economic and social well-being of all of the same-sex couples currently living together in the United States.
But what of the millions of heterosexual Americans whose marital subsidies will go untouched? Or even of gay Americans who will opt out of ever getting hitched? Is there a universal economic advantage to striking down DOMA?
Consider the facts:
Pooling wealth leads to greater spending power. In general, married couples experience higher rates of financial growth and are better able to weather economic downturns. Not to mention, same sex-married couples would save an average of $500,000 over a lifetime in legal fees, health insurance and other expenses which they could invest in American industries and commerce.
Wedding industries will win big. New York City saw a $259 million dollar increase in revenue from marriage license fees after passing legal same-sex marriages back in 2011. Additionally, Forbes predicts that there will be a $16 billion boost in the wedding industry (i.e. catering, wedding planning, gift registries, etc.) should gay marriage be legalized nationwide.
More matrimony, more problems. Conversely, marriage does not guarantee bliss. Thus, Forbes reasonably predicts that the more marriages there are the more profits the country will gain from divorce attorneys and other legal fees associated with separation.
States prepping to gain on gay-friendly getaways & homesteads. Higher household incomes yield more taxes. Moreover, some states are already looking to spend on ads that would encourage same-sex couples to live, work, vacation and spend in their union-friendly cities.
Wedding bells spell billions for business. Happy employees (or workers who feel that they are valued, respected and able to be themselves) are more adept at customer service and better for business overall.
Ultimately, the economic benefits for legalizing gay marriage cannot be ignored. Just think of the money that the states would save in spending on orphanages and foster care should qualified same-sex married couples decide that the time is ripe to adopt. Yes, America stands poised to earn hundreds of billions of dollars from same-sex couples who until now were denied the same rights as different-sex partners at the federal level. But most importantly, the repeal of DOMA represents a monumental Civil Rights victory for all Americans– a testament to this country’s commitment to preserving each citizen’s right to liberty and equality.
Filed under: Economy, News & Articles 
