Go til you can't go no more.

The pita menu at Bulldog Pizza is now available! This monday I helped the crew roll out the new menus. Minus a few kinks, things have worked themselves out. I am proud to announce that the reviews of the food have been great! Best guacamole in town; or so the people have said. It's great to see things come to life. It definitely gives me more respect for restaurant managers and chefs trying to launch new ideas. It is a lot of work, but well worth it. Check out the video below for a sample of what Bulldog now has to offer. 

I know that I have been neglecting my Facebook and blog lately, but it is not for laziness. I have been spending all my extra hours learning design and how to create different marketing pieces. These past few weeks have proven to be difficult, but I have made it through. Just in time for the holidays at that!

Even though this marketing schedule has proven to be hard work, and not as mobile as I would have liked, I am enjoying it thouroughly. It's a great feeling when someone compliments your product. It gives you that extra fuel to keep going. I am glad that I have found something I am truly good at. I owe a lot to my family for their support, but personal motivation is necessary in order to keep a schedule like mine. 

Merry Christmas to all! 

-T.b. 

What's in your dinner?

As I have been completing research on food cost, marketing and pricing for the new Bulldog Pizza Pita Menu; I have learned quite a few interesting facts. Of those there are just a few that I think were well worth noting. 


Why do companies need to put "real white meat" on their product? I feel if I go to a restaurant (sit down or to go) and order a chicken sandwich, the only option should be healthy "real" white meat chicken; not a processed cow/ chicken mixture. Has our country really come this far.....I did read the ingredients label for pizza bagels made by a very well known company and "silicon" was listed. 

     sil·i·con [sil-i-kuhn, -kon]:  nonmetallic element, having amorphous and crystalline forms,occurring in a combined state in minerals and rocks andconstituting more than one fourth of the earth's crust: used insteelmaking, alloys, etc. 


-Enjoy your pizza rolls!


In addition to "real" food, I don't think the general public would be so upset about the higher price of "organic" or natural foods, if we did not build our country around artificial foods to keep prices low. Why hand toss your own fresh dough, prep freshly picked ingredients, and take the time to handcraft each individual ravioli when you can buy an entire pre-made bag of them for $5 and have it ready in three minutes. In my opinion it comes down to time and tradition. If you are brought up eating only these things, organic food would take a bigger chunk of your budget. It is also much easier and convenient to microwave dinner daily. 


Finally, while this one is slightly more ridiculous, what makes Ketchup fancy? As I did a survey of a few close friends about the topic, they could not give an answer either. Even google (my answer to life) did not give me a straight forward answer. Some same it is all a marketing ploy, while others indicate that the way the tomatoes are prepared makes them fancy. This maybe one of life's greatest mysteries, I'm sure. 


Don't expect ANY mystery ingredients coming from food I prepare or am associated with. It's just not good business. 


-T.b.

Just an example....

Office contest! Read below.

Things have been going very well these past few weeks. The menu for Bulldog Pizza's "Pita Lunch" is now complete! If all goes well, this will be rolling out next week! Look for the new additions on their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/bulldogpizzasaginaw Since there are not many places that you can eat multiple times per week without feeling guilty, we have instituted this menu for the office crowd! It's filling, tasty, and not fried! Send me your office name and address to be put in a raffle for free lunch!

My business systems are all falling into place rather quickly. Maybe not as quick as I would like them to, but it's a world of change from last year. Come January I should have much more time to focus on Green Life Marketing, as I have been very negligent lately. To all the small business owners out there, I apologize. I will be back and ready to take on your tasks shortly.

Also, I am drafting a submission for CNN that talks about the American Dream and if it is still alive. Once I complete the article and have it reviewed, I will post it for all to read. I think that the more involved you make yourself, the more that people will notice you. My business is all about my reputation, and this would be a great addition to be published! If you have any other ideas on how/ where I can submit more articles, I would love to know!

It's christmas season! Nothing says it better than this video by BMW photography. Enjoy!

"Research. Innovate. & Rebuild. We can make it through and prosper!"
-T.b. 

On a budget.. Don't sacrifice ethics.

The support that Street Meat has seen before launch has been more than I could have imagined. I am very excited for this venture to come to life. In the spring of 2012 Street Meat will be on the corner of Hamilton and Court selling quality foods and respectable prices. The city has finally approved our plan!

Today I went to test drive a new car. It was awd, which should be a requirement living in the snowy and ever changing state of Michigan. I was ready to sign a purchase agreement, until they tried to tack on an additional $2000. Why,  they "wrote the wrong price" on the tag. Hmmm, do businesses like this think that they will survive? Businesses need to use ethical behavior. Why do you think we are int he current situation. Ethics are huge to me. If you are not willing to make income from a reputable source, you should rethink your plan.

What is your view on ethical business practices? Is it ok to skip a step to make a dollar? Not in my opinion...

Nothing beats a day on the beach.

So as I continually learn about new business systems and how they can play a great part in streamlining processes, I want nothing more than to have this in all my companies. While I have been part of organizations that tried to rely on nothing but these systems, they are worth the time and effort. It may seem funny to say I am going to manage myself out of all my companies, but thats what I want.

My current goal in my "work life" is to not need a job by the time I am 27. I am 23 and will be 24 in just a few short months. It's time to start taking actions. While I will always have projects and new business, I don't want to be required to be at a location in order to keep my paycheck. This may seem like a crazy idea, but I know that it can be done and I am just starting to see how simple it is. Mobility and time are expensive, why spend it at a job I don't like?

Because time is so expensive (to me at least,) it is worth paying someone to manage all daily operations along with staffing and other key business essentials. This way I am cutting into my profits, but I am gaining so much in time and mobility. It really does benefit me in the end. My companies will still be taken care of, just by someone who feels the paycheck is an ample reward for time spent.

"Life is worth living, it's not meant to be spent chasing the dollar. Live life, and make it everything you can imagine!"

-T.b.

On the street; Get the meat.

I have learned quite a bit this week in regards to franchise law and contract writing. I think these should have been classes offered in college in place of the less useful basics required for my associates degree. I do seem to have a good handle on it now though. I don't understand why there is so much legal jargon though. If contracts are meant to be understood, shouldn't they be written in a clearer format? Just my thoughts...

Street Meat is getting ready for an official Spring of 2012 launch! Check it out on Facebook and be ready for updates as we progress. I can't wait to see this company grow! This will be the company that I enjoy best, I can tell. It's a few months away, but I am very geeked about it. 

Green Life is still going strong. The social media class did not work out as planned, but I did get some good publicity out of the advertisements. I looked at the stats on my website and found myself quite impressed with the traffic. I love how easy it is to gather and organize all of this data now! Thank you technology. 

"Stay on task, and stay driven. It's only your future in the balance."

-T.b.

Approved, Approved, Approved......

Student loans... 

This topic is something that is gaining more light in the news and media. I have heard it being referenced as the next area to implode. I also found a great article about this. While it does promote this candidates position, why don't more people listen?

http://tinyurl.com/5v5cke8

I don't understand why we preach go to college, no matter what. Granted, you have a slightly better opportunity than most, but with the debt that is required it just does not make sense. I know that my Bachelors program was quite costly for almost zero return. Did that piece of paper really help me? I wasn't taught a thing about social media, networking, or how to use tax laws to my advantage as a business owner. This things are hugely important in todays world and I received none of that. 

There are fields that I completely agree with tacking on student loans to finish school, but why do they need to charge 20,000 per semester for this? Money, money, money; its all about money. 

In my situation, experience has been the most vital source of education. People ask what have I done, not where have I gone to school. One of my friends is currently making 18 an hour without a degree while I work at a bank making just a few cents above minimum wage.... Just a thought. 

"Be smart, know your surroundings, and take full advantage."

-T.b.

The Journey to the top, or at least somewhere in the middle.

While this blog tends to contain a mix of information, I have been trying to keep each post specific towards a single topic to make it easier for my followers. I do try and keep this blog more personal than my other business sites since I want to establish relationships based on mutual interests, ethics, and perspectives on life. All in all,  look forward to a more organized blog to come!


As business is generating more and more interest, I am realizing that my life isn't going to your typical life. Graduate college, obtain that dream job, meet someone and settle down, and maybe have a kid? Not for me. I am not saying this is a bad thing, it just doesn't fit my vision. Not to mention its hard to find someone who can put up with spontaneous decision making. Ha!


I think that as I gain more mobility in my life, I really want to start giving back and learning more. Education is really undervalued. I am not talking about your generic college education. I would like to focus on life experiences in other cultures learning new languages and gaining different perspectives. I feel like this would give me an opportunity to find new needs and solutions to satisfy these needs. Also, this would require travel to these different areas of the world, who doesn't love international travel? 


As far as giving back, there is no way I could not help people around me. I have risen to the position I am in because I have had great family, friends, and public support. I wouldn't be here, if these people weren't available. I want to teach people, I don't want to simply throw out financial support. You can't buy common sense. 


"Fielding that first call is like the feeling of ocean waters on your feet; you've finally made it to your proposed destination." -T.b

Bricks & Mortar, how old fashioned.

While completing a new menu layout for a client of mine, I realized how awesome it would be to have my own bricks and mortar business. It may not be the smartest investment one can make, but just the marketing advantage you have with a physical location is crazy. In-store ads, menu creation, promotions, and management structures are quite appealing to me. Some people like pets, I like business.

Web businesses have such low costs compared actual locations. They can also lead to a position where I simply watch profits being dropped into my bank account. Nothing beats a job where I have to do very little to get paid. I do like social media and networking. Unfortunately it is taking over face to face communication industry, but we are able to connect and stay connected so much easier. Once I have enough cash flow, I'll build my building. Until then, web based it is!

The social media class is getting closer and closer! This is definitely a great opportunity for any business owners if they want higher sales. I've never heard anyone object to more money, just a thought. I do want to share this story with you today.

     I was passing by an old convenience store I went in as a kid. It was re-opened so I figured I would stop in and see how things were going. I was thoroughly disappointed. With a lack in inventory, a messy entrance, and an overall cluttered area I asked how his business was going. "Not well," he replied. "Why, what do you know?" I told him my background in marketing and it seemed like a light just clicked on. He was interested, welcoming, and overall tired of working for nothing. I applaud any business owners who are welcoming of help. It takes a lot to step back and let someone give you a hand.

The business of politics.

I could really get used to this Indian summer situation. Being that I am not a fan of freezing temperatures, I welcomed it with open arms this week. While I may not have had the time to enjoy it as much as I should, I was very appreciative of the weather. And yes, I know I live in the wrong state for not liking cold temperatures...

Green Life is developing more and more visibility within the community. I have management structures in mind and cannot wait to set them in motion. While I do enjoy helping business owners realize that there is a whole new world to marketing right now, I am in business to make business. This journey has already taught me a great deal things, mainly regarding politics within business, but it is all good information. Although I think a poli-sci degree would have helped me more than my business degree has. 

Has anyone realized how frequently the Food Network uses product placement advertising. Instead of just mixing ingredients, they are "being mixed in a stainless steel Kitchen Aid bowl." Mind you, it's a great idea and definitely connects the brand with the use. It's like the new commercial, or it is going to be soon. 

Don't forget, Social Media Marketing class for business owners is coming up shortly! Only 10 spots available so RSVP quickly!

Making Progress...making changes.

Reserving the room at #SVSU for the Social Media class today! The space is perfect and gives a great professional appearance. Get the word out, this class will benefit ANY business owner.  

Social Media Marketing for Business Owners

SVSU Curtiss Hall

November 8th, 2011

6:00 - 7:30p

*Bring business cards as this will be a great networking event!

Thank you to Allstate of Bay City, The Mixx Nightclub & Metro Grille, Gilli's Fun Center, Bulldog Pizza, and Envy Salon for supporting this event!

On a different note, I attended the #GFSFoodshow yesterday and thoroughly indulged in appetizing samples and small meals. If I owned a restaurant, this would have been an even better event. I still enjoyed myself. 

Gardening season has come to an end and its time to 'til everything under. Hopefully next year I will be able to have the same great yields as this year brought. There is nothing better than going and picking your dinner minutes before preparing it. True meaning of fresh food. 

Now that I have a class to conduct, I shall get back to preparing my presentation that will hopefully inspire business owners to change their habits and join the social network!

Business Owners, Attention Please!

The city has finally approved our plan for Street Meat LLC! Now to pass acquire more licensing and permits before the fun begins. Watch out Saginaw, there's competition coming to your streets...

The Business Social Media class Green Life Marketing is offering is 90% likely to be held at the stunning #SVSU Curtiss Hall. I hope that I can educate and stimulate owners to take charge, keep grinding, and watch the differences that the modern medias can have.

This class is perfect for new business owners, existing business owners, or anyone thinking about joining the business world. There will be a thank you gift filled with coupons and marketing examples from other local businesses for everyone who attends. There are only TEN spots left!

Business Social Media
The new advertising animal you CAN manage.
Nov. 8th
Curtiss Hall, SVSU
6:00 - 7:30
$25 to attend
 (I wanted to be sure small business owners could see the value in this class without breaking their budgets.)

Bring business cards and note taking materials.

Now that fall has made a brisk appearance, it's time for one final harvest in the garden. Picking off the remaining small jalapenos and broccoli, I realized that this has been one of the most rewarding summer projects that I have completed. Not only was it great to watch the seeds grow, but just the yield of food I received was phenomenal. Over 17 freezer bags full of healthy, tasty vegetables!

"If you can't make your own choices, who is making them for you?" Take charge of your life, and let nothing stop you from creating a worthwhile existence.

-T.b.

Barriers to entry.

Well, another week has come and gone. I guess finding more time to post was slightly harder than I had imagined. Between working at the bank and the bar my time is already tied up enough. At least things seem to be moving in a more positive direction lately.

Street Meat oh Street Meat...... The city of Saginaw is not a well oiled machine. I'll leave it at that for now.

Developments at Green Life have been productive. Trying to hammer down the exact date for the business owners workshop on social media marketing. This class will be a great tool for business owners looking for  new and more efficient ways to advertise. I am excited that I can help these people with something that they are truly invested in. I have also accumulated some promo items and coupons from local businesses to give to anyone attending this workshop. Hope to see you there! If you need more information, please email timothybeadle@greenlifemarketing. biz

The AIDS walk was a great success this weekend! Raised nearly $50,000 for the cause. It was great to see ll the community and local businesses backing it. There still are good hearted people out there, and that is a very relieving fact.

Help out & have fun!

It's technically Thursday in my odd work schedule. Having weekday weekends is probably one of the nicer things that my schedule allows. I can still get quite a bit accomplished seeing as how everything is open! This week should bring a decision on how to move forward with Street Meat. I am anxious to get this off the ground, but politics are not my forte.

AIDS walk is next weekened! Looking for volunteers to help set up and tear down for The Mixx Nightclub's booth. It is an early event, but it is always a nice event to work. Also, there is a family skate night @Gilli's Skating & Fun Center next sunday to raise money to replace the roof on the historic Potter Street Station. Lots of ways to donate and volunteer to make a difference.

Still waiting to to hear from @Barry Biffel of Spirit Airlines on the marketing ideas I have. It was a long shot, but it's better to take risks for yourself than to watch your competitors do it.

"Business is like a game of chess, just don't be the pawn."

-T.b.

Building my empire.

Back from Hiatus!

This past few days/ weeks have been quite crazy for me. New business ventures are in the works, existing ventures are gaining some ground, and work is well work..... 

Green Life has seen a HUGE increase in Facebook activity since creating a social media strategy plan. LinkedIn has turned to be quite the player in this. In addition to seeing the number of "Likes" increase exponentially, Green Life now has international supporters. I am still debating hosting a marketing seminar for new business owners, I have had great response from business willing to submit promo materials, but not a lot of confidence in the attendance rates. 

Street Meat LLC. Look for it soon. Hamilton St. will never be the same. 

I will try and post on a more scheduled basis from now on, but my life does not always allow for this. 

-T.b. 

No rest for the best.

Quick Response Code. Scan it, check out the site, and leave some feedback! Enjoy your labor day, I know I will be getting some work done today. Everyday is a workday, just depends on what you call work.

Diamond in the dirt.

This is just one of many large bowls of food I have harvested from my personal garden. I started this endevour to prove that no matter how busy you are, you can eat a healthy non genetically mutated diet. I work two jobs, own a company, have an active social life, and still manage to make physical fitness a staple in my life.

The food I have harvested is the vibrant, colorful, and tasty food I have eaten in a while. I think the satisfaction of planting, weeding, and harvesting makes it all the better too. I highly recommend anyone who can, try growing a small garden. It cost me $35 and about an hour of work every week. I have already harvested brocoli, peas, string beans, tomatoes, jalapenos, green peppers, lettuce, and corn. Truly an investment that paid off!

 -T.b.

Quick Recap.

Business has been seeing some increased activity lately! It's great to see my work start to pay off. Networking is such a critical tool. We all know the old saying, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." I've heard that one far too many times. While it is repetitive, it is 98% true. I would not be in my current position without knowing the people I do, and I am extremely thankful for meeting these people. 


What's up with this fall weather? I went for a run a few nights ago and was actually cold. Hmmm, the beginnings of a Michigan winter are upon us. I may be bias since I would love 85 degree days all year long though. By the end of my run I was very appreciative of the weather, especially since I was not drenched in sweat for once. 

Excuse me sir, could you spare a tree?

Minus the quality of the picture, this packaging is quite intriguing. If you are unable to read it, the picture is showing what percent of the napkins are made of recycled (100%) or new trees. It also mentions what percent of dye and bleach have been used as well.  I have never seen anything like this. I am very glad this company has come to recognize new trends. I am all for implementing sustainable business practices. I think that people need to be aware of how they are personally affecting the world around them. 

On an unrelated note, new business plans are being thought of as we speak. I am contacting companies and trying to develop a plan of action. It is crazy how your world changes as you meet new people and learn new things. Information is the key success. You can't be ignorant and try and conquer the world, it just won't happen. 

No money, no problem.

http://www.mlive.com/travel/index.ssf/2011/08/volunteer_abroad_voluntourism.html

I think volunteering is something that everyone should do. It is a great way to connect with new people, establish a presence within a community, and just plain help out. It's a hard economy, everyone knows (and keeps mentioning) this. We can't write checks to help out anymore, but we can give our time to be involved in community efforts. This article is a perfect example of how rewarding it is just to volunteer. 

Personally I have volunteered with Bringing Back the 80's Festival, Freeland Walleye Festival, Midland Jazz Trail, and the Delta College Environmental Club. If you need/ want more information on these organizations or if you have any organization that I could volunteer with, please let me know. 

I was reading another article debating if the millennial generation is ready to take on this cut throat job market. While the article did not give the best view of millennials, it did note that the millennial generation participates in more volunteer activities than previous generations. That is great news to me! 

Hello Saginaw!

Welcome to my blog. Topics will be of similar nature, and any subject changes must be submitted prior to posting. There is a strict 1 comment per person rule......

Above is an example of what this blog is not. It will be interesting, relevant, and a great resource for anyone. Whether you own your own business or are working in a career you know is not for you, I hope that you do take something from this blog. 

If you ever want more info on a subject I talk about, send me an email. I would appreciate hearing from those who are following my blog.