I’ve been thinking about my father quite a bit recently, possibly because I’m also pondering my own role as “Pop-Pop” for our growing brood of grandchildren. I find comfort in recounting childhood memories and experiences, particularly those that helped shape my life. Donald E. Nestler was a brilliant aerospace engineer, and an avid lover of music. Along with my mother’s … [Read more...]
Do You Remember…
It’s hard not to get excited when listening to Earth, Wind & Fire’s hit song “September.” What a feel-good, upbeat anthem of cheerfulness, and after this summer a timely reminder that positivity and joyfulness shall prevail. In musical instrument and pro audio sales, the seasons can have a profound effect on your psyche, especially when economic uncertainty and the daily … [Read more...]
My Next Five-Year Plan…
Many years ago, I had an ongoing conversation with a rep friend of mine concerning our financial plans for early retirement. At the time, one of the synthesizers we were selling was an absolute home run, and the commission checks were quite impressive. That led us to decide on a “five-year plan”, which of course never materialized. Since then, this idea has become something of … [Read more...]
A Tale of Two Trade Shows…
Like many industries, trade shows are still a fixture for both Musical Instruments and Audio, Video & Lighting. Despite debates over the years concerning the viability of such exhibitions, the beat goes on at NAMM, and the digital pulse races at InfoComm. While I started attending music industry showcases in the late 1980s, it was not until 2019 and my acquisition of Reflex … [Read more...]
Through the Eyes (and Ears) of a Child…
This morning, I had the opportunity and profound pleasure to lead the “Tunes for Tots” program at our retail store, and it may have been the best gig I ever played. Performing for toddlers is challenging at times, especially compared to jamming at a bar, outdoor venue or street festival. Every other Saturday, and at many of the children’s birthday parties we host at The … [Read more...]
Structure vs. Stricture in Life and Business…
Life is about choices; business is about decisions. While you could comingle these thoughts, my emphasis on choices refers to a path we all can choose, whether that be the high road or the alternative. When presented a fork in the road at age 19, I veered into rock music rather than higher education. That was a choice. In operating our musical instrument and pro audio … [Read more...]
The Human Agency
Following last month’s rant about my dissatisfaction with the poor customer experience offered by AI Agents, it is a suitable time to look closely at the “Human Agency.” Are you concerned, as many appear to be, about your job being replaced by Artificial Intelligence? At a deeper level, are we as living, breathing, emotional entities going to be satisfied when there is … [Read more...]
Keep Your Customers Close…
In a world where customer contact is becoming increasingly automated, there is a compelling case to be made that the “personal touch” is not about to disappear. In fact, I’d say just the opposite. Right now, I’m composing this article while being left on hold, this after being screened by an AI attendant. We have moved to a new home, and there are many companies that need to … [Read more...]
California Dreaming…
Our annual pilgrimage to Anaheim occurs this week for the Musical Instrument and Pro Audio trade. The NAMM Show promises a plethora of new products, hundreds of supplier booths to visit along with significant educational offerings. Over the years since COVID, attendance has rebounded, and rising optimism accompanies the start of the New Year. What comes out of all this? Tons of … [Read more...]
Four Reasons for a Fabulous 2026…
Keeping in the spirit of Holiday optimism, I’m searching for specific measures that will support a momentous year ahead. I’ve written before about how sales managers, especially in the Musical Instrument and Pro Audio Industry, expect growth “just because” the calendar flips and an there’s a trade show coming in January to stir things up. Let’s face it, human nature shows a … [Read more...]