Instant Recess by Toni Yancey - Book review

Instant Recess

Building a Fit Nation 10 Minutes at a Time

By: Toni Yancey, MD, MPH

Published: November 3, 2010
Format: Paperback, 280 pages
ISBN-10: 0520263766
ISBN-13: 978-0520263765
Publisher: University of California Press










"The societal benefits of of physical activity cannot be fully realized until most people get moving", writes Professor in the Department of Health Services and Co-Director of UCLA Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Equity at the School of Public Health at the University of California, Los Angeles, Toni Yancey, MD, MPH, in her inspirational and health transformational book Instant Recess: Building a Fit Nation 10 Minutes at a Time. The author presents a compelling case that a lack of physical activity is costing employers and the community money, time, and lost production due to the sedentary lifestyle of employees and the general public.

Toni Yancey offers a simple but highly effective solution to the declining physical fitness of the American population. The solution is the concept of instant recess. In the form of a brief, low impact group workout, suitable for everyone from children to adults, instant recess provides a fun and active way to improve physical fitness. The technique can be used anywhere, from workplaces, to community centers, to schools, to create an activity that fits into any busy schedule or program. For employers, instant recess fits well into the workplace, increasing fitness and activity levels of employees, while providing bottom line improvements as well. Toni Yancey shares research evidence that demonstrates how structured physical activity while at work results in a healthier and more productive workforce. With lower absentee rates and lower health care eosts, there are tangible benefits for the organization, at very little expenditure in terms of money and time.



Toni Yancey (photo left) shares some easy to incorporate fitness ideas, that any organizations can adopt, with no loss of time or cash outlay:

* Ten minute exercise breaks during meetings and regularly during the work day
* Use standing ovations as the standard for showing appreciation
* Post stair prompts and have managers lead in using the stairs
* Include fifty percent or more healthy food choices in machines and cafeterias

While these concepts provide fitness, at no cost to the organization, they also build teamwork, provide motivation for incorporating other changes into the company, and boost employee morale. The resulting productivity increase, from healthier and more engaged employees, benefits the company as well as the individual employees. Toni Yancey asserts, and with the backing of strong research, that the individual and company level fitness improvements translate as well to enhancement of the overall well being and quality of life in the larger community as well. The application of fun and easy group events not only builds bodies but it creates stronger social bonds as well, providing both tangible and unseen benefits for all.

For me, the power of the book is how Toni Yancey describes the benefits to individuals, organizations, and communities of a physically fit population. The author backs her concepts with the latest research into fitness and its relationship to health, productivity, and personal well being. Toni Yancey also provides an extensive reference section for further study. Along with the theoretical research and ideas, the author shares easy to organize group exercises, as well as initiatives that individuals can take on their own. For companies, the author provides evidence of benefits for productivity, employee job satisfaction, and the overall profitability resulting from a more engaged and healthier workforce.

Toni Yancey goes far beyond the usual nutritionally based advice for individuals and organizations. While she includes sections on healthy eating, the author emphasizes the importance of combining a balanced diet with regular, intense physical activity. Toni Yancey also shares methods for overcoming cultural objections to the concept of physical activity, and the value of instant recess as a means of clearing these cultural obstacles.

I highly recommend the practical and personally transformational book Instant Recess: Building a Fit Nation 10 Minutes at a Time by Toni Yancey, to any business, organizational, political, or community leaders seeking an easy and enjoyable method of increasing the overall physical fitness of their constituencies. As the book's subtitle points out, just ten minutes of physical activity per day will begin the transition from a sedentary population to one of improved health and energy levels. Everyone benefits from the added productivity and lowered health costs that result from an active and fit organization, community and nation.

Read the timely and essential book Instant Recess: Building a Fit Nation 10 Minutes at a Time by Toni Yancey, and begin the journey to better health and physical fitness in your business or community. Not only are the suggestions in the book easy and fun, but they build bonds between people that overcome barriers. Everyone loved recess while at school. The idea of instant recess should prove effective and enjoyable for everyone as well.

Tags: Instant Recess: Building a Fit Nation 10 Minutes at a Time, Toni Yancey, MD, MPH, organizational physical fitness benefits, business book reviews.

Nathan Segal: Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing - Author interview

Successful freelance writer and editor Nathan Segal, was kind enough to take the time and answer a few questions about his very practical and information packed book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing.

Nathan Segal describes his proven techniques for landing those choice magazine writing assignments, creating effective internet content, and for making a living as an independent freelance writer.

Thanks to Nathan Segal for his time, and for his very informative and comprehensive responses to the questions. They are greatly appreciated.

What was the background to writing this book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing?

Nathan Segal: It largely came about from hanging out on forums. What I kept hearing were complaints from writers about the content sites and the low rate of pay. I was appalled by what I heard and decided to do something about it. The result was my book.

So many freelance writers struggle with finding writing assignments. Why is this the case and what are they doing wrong?

Nathan Segal: The number one reason is they don’t know how to market themselves.

More often than not, they wind up on the writing sites where they get paid a pittance for their articles. Other times they wind up on job boards where they’re in a bidding competition with other writers for work. And in that case it’s about who can underbid who, so even if you get a contract, it’s only for a few dollars per article. It’s hard work and you don’t make any decent money.

How can freelance writers better research writing opportunities?

Nathan Segal: By understanding how to search for work. There are two major methods:

1. • Keyword research

2. • And using online directories.

The internet provides a wealth of research opportunities. How can freelancers find magazines seeking their writing?

Nathan Segal: By understanding how to search and what keywords to use. I offer an extensive list of search terms in my book. As above, here’s an example: paying American magazines. That will give you access to a huge number of resources.

With directories, the process is easier because you have access to a database with listings of many magazines. Two that I recommend are:

http://www.freelancewriting.com and the Gale’s directories. You can get free access to the directories here:

http://www.nypl.org/collections/articles-databases/gales-ready-reference-shelf



Nathan Segal (photo left)

Can a freelancer also use the same techniques to become a telecommuter for a company?

Nathan Segal: Yes and no. They still need to search, though they would be using different keywords to search. In this case, they would use keyword phrases like: writing jobs, technical writing jobs or writing gigs. Some sites to look at are SimplyHired.com, or Craigslist.

Can the many writing sites on the internet help to build a reputation as a writer?

Nathan Segal: Yes. You use those sites to write content. Then when it’s published, you refer to that content in your query letters. This helps to establish credibility.

Why should freelancers be familiar with technical concepts like screen captures and the various web photo formats?

Nathan Segal: Depending on who you write for, you need to know how to save files. As an example, if you write for a print publication, you’ll probably want to save those screen captures as a TIFF file. If you write for the web, you’ll want to save them as JPEG or GIF. Generally, I use JPEG for full color images and the GIF format for text, line art and dialog boxes. Also, for a print publication, the resolution would be around 300 dpi (dots per inch) for good quality. For the web, it’s different. A good resolution would be 96 ppi (pixels per inch) for the PC and 100 ppi for the Macintosh.

You are a strong proponent in creating content through interviews. Can interviews be used for revenue and re=purposed for other uses including reputation building?

Nathan Segal: Absolutely. This was one of my main tasks when I was a columnist at Streaming Media World. I used interviews all the time. Also, for a novice writer, interviews are one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways of breaking into freelance writing.

I did this in two different ways, telephone and email interviews. Telephone interviews offer a lot of spontaneity and can be quite a bit of fun. The down side is having to transcribe them later. In contrast, the email interview allows the interviewee to take time with their answers. It’s also great for me as a writer because I can edit one of those in about 15-20 minutes, then it’s ready to post.

Many freelance writers have expressed concerns about how to write a good query letter. What makes for a great query letter that gets assignments?

Nathan Segal: In my experience, there are a couple of really important things. First off, never write an article in advance of the query. If you do so and the editor doesn’t like it, you’ve wasted your time.

Secondly, when you write a letter list three article topics and write a short summary of what you have in mind – no more than a few sentences. The idea is to capture the editor’s attention. Also, by writing three topics, you stand a better chance of getting an assignment.

Why should writers get to know the editor and how can a great editor help a writer succeed?

Nathan Segal: The editor is ultimately your best friend, though many writers don’t know that. Many writers are afraid of the editor; other writers hate editors because the editor changes their copy .

The reality is that a good editor can show you how to write really well. The editor can also shape your writing career. In one case, I worked with an editor by the name of David Tanaka. David showed me that my greatest strength was as a “how-to” writer. The result is this interview and my book.

Despite often long experience with freelancing, many writers are still unsure how magazines pay for work. How does a magazine pay for writing?

Nathan Segal: In one of three ways: by the page, by the word and by assignment.

As for when you get paid, again, there are three ways: On acceptance, on submission and on publication. Of these two options, I recommend the first two. Unless you have a good cash flow, don't work for a magazine that pays on publication, because you could be waiting for a long time. In one case I wound up waiting for nine months and I still hadn't been paid.

How can a writer increase their income to make freelancing a full time business?

Nathan Segal: Develop a client base of several magazines that you write for, all at the same time, or in rotation. This is how I did it.

Coming up with story ideas is often a challenge for freelancers. How can a writer generate more story and article ideas?

Nathan Segal: Study back issues of the magazine for article ideas. That’s the easiest way. Also, read the author’s guidelines to see what their favorite topics are, then see if you can come up with a new approach. Contrary to what you might believe, similar topics come up and it’s in the way that you write them that determines a new approach and fresh content.

What is the first step a freelance writer take toward becoming a success?

Nathan Segal: Decide on what you want to write. Use a mind map.

What is next for Nathan Segal?

Nathan Segal: Transitioning into being a mentor and coach. I’m also taking my marketing knowledge and am creating a video series. Eventually I’d like to give some workshops, as well.

**************

My book review of Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing by Nathan Segal.

My Blog Business Success internet radio interview with Nathan Segal. Blog Business Success hosted on BlogTalkRadio.

Tags: Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, successful freelance writing business, business author interviews.

Nathan Segal: Secrets Of Profitable Freelance Writing - Blog Business Success Radio

Listen to Wayne Hurlbert on Blog Talk Radio



Successful thirteen year veteran freelance writer and editor, and author of the very practical and information packed book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, shares his secrets for finding and landing more freelance writing jobs. Nathan recognizes that prospecting for freelance assignments is a challenge for many freelancers so he provides the tools necessary for finding the right contacts and making connections. He describes how to build credibility, establish a track record, and how to create valuable content fast. He offers proven ideas for writing queries and for getting paid properly for your writing skills. Learn how to land choice assignments at the top magazines and earn top dollar for your articles.

Nathan Segal is my internet radio show guest on Blog Business Success; hosted live on BlogTalkRadio.

The show airs live on Thursday, November 18, at 8:00 pm Eastern Time; 5:00 pm Pacific Time.

Successful thirteen year veteran freelance writer and editor, and author of the very practical and information packed book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, shares his secrets for finding and landing more freelance writing jobs. You will learn:

* How to research the best paying freelance writing assignments

* Why it's important to understand many web and internet tools

* How to become an editor as well as a freelance writer

* How to add more revenue streams through joint ventures



Nathan Segal (photo left) wanted to share some more about his background and how he became involved in the field of freelance writing. How this came about was not by design, but by a combination of accident and necessity. At the time Nathan had just moved from one city to another to take a job as a software instructor at a local technical school.

Without getting into all the drama of what happened, things went off the rails almost immediately. Nathan had a many problems with the students and the owner of the school and he didn’t see eye to eye. Within a matter of weeks Nathan was fired.

So there he was in a new city, without a network and without a job. Worse, he couldn’t go back to where he’d come from. He’d exhausted all his options there as well.

Nathan spent a couple of weeks not knowing what to do.. Fortunately he had a cash reserve though his prospects were looking pretty bleak. That’s when his cousin, who was working as a freelance writer, came to visit.

When Nathan's cousin heard about his situation, he asked Nathan: “Would you like to learn how to write?” With no other options in sight, Nathan accepted. Shortly after, he started to train him. One of the first stops was the local library, where he showed Nathan different directories (Gale’s, Ulrich’s and Literary Marketplace) and how to use them to find paying magazines and journals.

Over the years, Nathan learned that writing is like a passport. You can write about anything and get paid, even if you’re not an expert on the subject. The way you do this is by a combination of interviewing and research, all of which Nathan discusses in great detail in his book.

Freelance writing has given Nathan a lot of flexibility over the years, of time, location and travel. Writing funds his adventures. Nathan knows it can do the same for you once you learn how.

Nathan invites you to join him on this journey.

My book review of Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing by Nathan Segal.

Listen live on Thursday at 8:00 pm Eastern, 5:00 pm Pacific time.



If you miss this very informative show, it will be available for free download as a podcast for iPod, iTunes, and MP3 players; or play it right on your computer. To download this, or any other of my guest interviews, go to the Blog Business Success host page and click on Archived Segments. Once there, click on the podcast icon at the end of the episode description, to download the show free of charge for your listening enjoyment. You can also subscribe to the show feed.



To call in questions for my guest, the number is: (347) 996-5832

Let's talk with successful thirteen year veteran freelance writer and editor, and author of the very practical and information packed book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, as he shares his secrets for finding and landing more freelance writing jobs. Nathan recognizes that prospecting for freelance assignments is a challenge for many freelancers so he provides the tools necessary for finding the right contacts and making connections. He describes how to build credibility, establish a track record, and how to create valuable content fast. He offers proven ideas for writing queries and for getting paid properly for your writing skills. Learn how to land choice assignments at the top magazines and earn top dollar for your articles on Blog Business Success Radio.

Tags: Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, successful freelance writing business, Blog Business Success, Blog Talk Radio.

Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing by Nathan Segal - Book review

Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing

By: Nathan Segal

Published: August 30, 2010
Format: Paperback, 104 pages
ISBN-10: 0978491912
ISBN-13: 978-0978491918
Publisher: Nathan Segal








"What I am going to show you in this manual are my fastest methods for finding work, obtaining great assignments and producing content", writes successful freelance writer and editor Nathan Segal in his very practical and information packed book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing. The author describes his proven techniques for landing those choice magazine writing assignments, creating effective internet content, and for making a living as an independent freelance writer.

Nathan Segal recognizes that finding paying magazine writing jobs is a challenge for many freelance writers. The writers very often struggle with locating the right magazines and developing article ideas. Nathan Segal takes the guesswork out of researching magazines both on the internet and in the public library. The author shares his ideas for writing the query letters that get noticed and result in paying contracts with major magazines. The tactics for effective query letters include flexibility, scalability, and reliability in achieving the freelancer's goals. For Nathan Segal, it's important for a freelance writer to gain a steady stream of article assignments, be well paid for writing, and develop a successful freelance business.



Nathan Segal (photo left) understands that there is more to being a successful freelancer than simply writing articles. To enhance freelance income, the author provides information on adding editorial skills to the freelancer's resume. Along with gaining skills, Nathan Segal shares the importance of partnering with editors to help them meet their goals and deadlines. A freelancer with a solid reputation for writing top quality articles, and delivered on time, will earn the trust of magazine editors. Experience acquired from partnerships with editors eases the transition from writer to editor for the freelancer as well. Editorial skills provide additional revenue streams for the freelancer in building a viable business. Nathan Segal doesn't stop with editors as partners, but demonstrates the financial advantage added through leveraging joint ventures with other freelance business people.

For me, the power of the book is how Nathan Segal presents a comprehensive program for achieving freelance success and for building a profitable and sustainable freelance business. Nathan Segal not only provides the theory for achieving strong results as a freelancer but backs up his ideas with practical advice. The recommendations are based on Nathan Segal's years of experience as a writer and editor, and are proven to work well in the real world. One of the additional features of the book is the lavish use of screen captures as illustrations for the author's points. The utilization of screen captures helps teach the importance of understanding the use of various computer and internet tools to widen the freelancer's skill base.

Unlike many other books on the topic of freelancing, this book includes an important section on adding multiple revenue streams through joint ventures. Usually not considered part of a freelance business toolbox, the joint venture is presented by Nathan Segal as a powerful money generator in its own right. A real strength of the book, in fact, is how the author suggests adding editorial skills and multiple income making concepts to that of article writing for online and offline magazines.

I highly recommend the useful and business building book Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing by Nathan Segal, to anyone seeking a very handy guide to developing and growing a successful and money making freelance business. The proven concepts presented in the book worked for others in the industry, and they will benefit the reader as well.

Read the valuable and profitability boosting manual Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing by Nathan Segal, and watch your freelance business grow in size and in scope. This book will teach you how to find those top paying magazines, write the ideal query letter, and land the choice assignments. At the same time, Nathan Segal shares his expertise for developing additional skills as an editor, and for securing cash generating joint ventures. This book is certain to transform any freelancer into a business success story.

Tags: Secrets of Profitable Freelance Writing, Nathan Segal, successful freelance writing business, business book reviews.

Deborah Sweeney: CEO of MyCorporation - Entrepreneurship Trends - Interview

CEO of MyCorporation Business Services, Inc. (“MyCorporation.com”), Deborah Sweeney, was kind enough to take the time to answer a few questions about trends in entrepreneurship, starting a new business in today's economy, and for protecting the investment and the company from liability.

Thanks to Deborah Sweeney for her time, and for her comprehensive and informative responses. They are greatly appreciated.

During the current economic downturn, are new businesses being created despite the news on the economy?

Deborah Sweeney: Yes, new businesses are popping up despite the economic downturn. We’re seeing businesses form that are often a result of the downturn, such as property investors purchasing distressed property. We’re also seeing moms go back to work by starting their own “at home” businesses, selling clothing, jewelry, baby products. People are also forming consulting businesses in greater numbers. We see new businesses form when people have been laid off from their jobs, they take their area of expertise and offer it on a consulting basis. People are getting creative and are learning to put their skills to work in different ways.

Are there certain industries that are even doing very well in today's difficult economic times?

Deborah Sweeney: While the housing industry has taken a down-turn, investors are paying cash to buy properties to turn them around upon the economic pick-up. We’re seeing the trucking industry grow, as the barriers to entry are relatively low, and the cost owning a truck is comparatively low. We’re also seeing a boom around the food truck industry – the start-up costs are minimal when compared with leasing space and building it out. Further, the mobility of a food truck enables the owner to expand their customer base.

Usually, not all areas of the country experience the same economic conditions at the same time. Which areas of the country are finding new business start ups being created? We’re finding more start-ups in 2 specific states – Wyoming and Texas. We’re seeing that Wyoming’s incorporation friendly laws are leading to more start-ups in that state. Further, Texas with the 15th largest economy in the world certainly helps the nation’s second-biggest state reach the level of “most friendly state to start a business”. The rankings are based upon cost of doing business, quality of

Real estate is always in the news as being a disaster. Are there real estate investors who are doing well in this economy and what type pf real estate is making money?

Deborah Sweeney: After a quiet year of investment sales, buyers are preparing to forge ahead with acquisitions in 2011. Two-thirds of investors (65 percent) who responded to the 6th Annual Investment Survey plan to boost their investment in commercial real estate over the next 12 months. That figure is up from 56 percent in the third quarter and 51 percent a year ago. The exclusive survey is produced jointly by National Real Estate Investor and Marcus & Millichap.

The fact that buyers are once again returning to the table is a huge vote of confidence for a commercial real estate industry that has been slammed in the past year by falling property values, occupancies and rents. Respondents to the annual survey who do plan to expand existing portfolios anticipate an average increase of 26 percent, up from 24 percent in the third quarter and 22 percent a year earlier.



Deborah Sweeney (photo left)

Many laid off executives are becoming consultants, but we often hear of the people who didn't succeed in the profession. How is consulting performing as a business in today's economy?

Deborah Sweeney: Consulting seems to be a growing industry. It is often difficult to go from an employee to being self-employed, so we hear that the biggest challenge of a consultant is the marketing/sales aspect of the business. They typically do very well once they have been offered the position, but getting clients to “buy in” to their expertise and value-add is often a difficult endeavor. This is true especially when businesses are cutting back on what they often see as “extra” expenses. Consulting tends to be a growing industry nevertheless because when people cannot find a job in their field, they are often in a position where they can start lending their expertise on a more cost-efficient basis outside of a large corporate environment.

What are a few other industries where you are seeing growth in new and successful start up businesses?

Deborah Sweeney: I did some research on growing industries for 2011 and forward and here’s a list of the highest-performing industries projected for the upcoming years: Consulting: Management, technology, and scientific-related areas will proliferate. Elderly Services: As “boomers” reach senior citizenship and enjoy good health, a wide variety of services will need staff. Therapy: The areas of physical, occupational, and speech therapy are the most promising for opportunities. EDP and Internet Hosting and Publishing: As mainstream readers move from the printed word to electronic news and information, hosting and publishing job opportunities should dramatically increase.

Home Health Care: As the population ages and health insurance companies tighten their budgets, home health care opportunities expand. Cable and Satellite Programming: As the over-the-air networks face more quality competition from cable and satellite sources, job opportunities should continue an upward trend. Computer Systems Design: Computer speed, power, and ability continues to increase and become intrinsic to all industries. While hardware design continues to provide opportunities, overall systems design is growing at a fast rate. The integration of hardware and software, particularly in the medical field, will accelerate new job opportunities. Mental Health Services (non-physician): Non-psychiatric and physician services should hold steady (yet, still strong), but support service requirements should expand job prospects.



Your company MyCorporation Business Services, Inc. works with new businesses. What role does your company play in assisting new companies achieve success?

Deborah Sweeney:
MyCorporation provides a “business in a box” that enables new businesses to get their businesses started and incorporated quickly, while saving money. Our business in a box includes the corporate filing with the state of choice, annual filing services, Quickbooks Simple Start, logo design, domain name from Network Solutions and a copy of Nolo’s incorporation guide all for $199. Companies can save on taxes, add a level of legitimacy and separate personal assets from those of the business by incorporating or forming an LLC. Our business in a box enables entrepreneurs to focus on their business while we do what’s necessary to protect the business and get it up and running.

What are the most common obstacles that new businesses must overcome to become successful in this and any economy?

Deborah Sweeney: One of the most common obstacles encountered by new businesses is their own fear or self-doubt. With confidence and a good network of other entrepreneurs, starting and growing a business can happen quite easily. It takes persistence and focus, but it can be done. Having good resources – other entrepreneurs, experienced business owners – who can serve as a sounding board is extremely important.

What are some of the most frequently occurring mistakes that new business people make that prevent them from achieving success?

Deborah Sweeney: New businesses often risk shooting themselves in the foot as they’re getting started. It’s not easy to be an entrepreneur. Not only are you getting your business up and running, your operations solidified, and your marketing strategy off the ground, but you are also trying to make sure you’re managing your business properly and minimizing liability.

1. Incorporate before doing business: For liability reasons, it’s wise to make sure you incorporate or form an LLC before the business takes off. Incorporating or forming an LLC can help protect personal assets by separating the business from your personal affairs. If anything were to go wrong with the business, it’s wise to make sure your house, car and personal effects are properly protected.

2. Consult a tax professional: If the type of business entity you should form is not clear to you, it’s wise to speak with a CPA. CPAs can help you understand tax implications and how the different structures can help you protect your assets as well as save money on taxes.

3. Learn your market: It’s wise to know your market. Understand who your customers are and target them. One of the best ways to do that is to emulate a business in your industry that you believe is doing a good job. Take the items that are successful and combine them with that which makes your business unique. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel entirely. If your business idea is novel, leverage the expertise of other entrepreneurs and business owners within the same genre as your offering. Getting out there and talking with people can be one of your greatest assets early on. Plus, you may generate customers in the process.

4. Be creative: No matter what industry you’re in, don’t be stagnant. Stay ahead of the curve and constantly be on the cutting edge. Communicate with the youth to see what’s up and coming in terms of marketing and social networking. Don’t rest on your laurels, and make sure you’re on top of the next steps for your business.

5. Spend your funds wisely: Many small businesses make the mistake of spending too quickly. Either they spend what others have invested in their business, or they spend everything that comes in the door. That can be helpful in the initial growth stages, but it may not be the recipe for long-term success. Make sure to invest more heavily in areas in which you get a higher return, and take smart risks otherwise.

What advice would you give to new business people who are starting their own companies?

Deborah Sweeney: Keep your head up even in the rough times. Starting a new business is very exciting, but it’s not always easy. It takes perseverance and dedication. It takes a good attitude, and focus. Also, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself – your personal assets. If something goes wrong with your business, you want to make sure that your personal assets are not at risk. For this reason, it’s important to incorporate or form an LLC.

If there’s legal action or a debt that is owed by your business, as a business owner, you do not want to risk losing your car, personal property or even worse, your home. Forming a corporation or LLC and separating personal assets from those of the business creates a limitation of liability, also known as a “corporate veil” that affords business a level of protection that is crucial in today’s litigious and sometimes economically risky financial environment.

Is today's economy perhaps the ideal time to start a new business venture?

Deborah Sweeney: When there is nothing to lose, one has only to gain. If someone has been laid off or downsized, there is nowhere to go but up. And, during a tough economy, people are often willing to take more risks – to explore an industry or occupation that they have always wanted to explore. When things are comfortable, people often do not feel the need to change, but when things have been disrupted as they have in this tough economy, then people get inspired (or pushed) into thinking outside the box. People take on roles and responsibilities they once only dreamed of, and they often turn mere dreams into a business venture.

What is next for Deborah Sweeney and MyCorporation?

Deborah Sweeney: We continue to support new business growth – introducing new business owners to other entrepreneurs. We look to create a community of business owners – a place where entrepreneurs can go to get answers and to get help with their legal filings. We want to help entrepreneurs as they get started on their business journey and we look to be a resource for business filings as a business grows.

More than 98% of all U.S. businesses are considered “small to medium sized businesses”, and those companies are responsible for more than 45% of all private payrolls and 80% of the new jobs created over the past decade. We want to be there to support those businesses with our “business in a box”.

*******************

DEBORAH SWEENEY

MyCorporation Business Services, Inc.

As CEO of MyCorporation Business Services, Inc. (“MyCorporation.com”), Deborah Sweeney is an advocate for protecting personal and business assets for all consumers. With her experience in the field of corporate and intellectual property law, Deborah can provide insightful commentary on the benefits, barriers and who should consider incorporation and trademark registration. She also has extensive experience in the start-up and entrepreneurial industry as she has been involved in the formation of hundreds of thousands of MyCorporation.com's customers.

Ms. Sweeney joined MyCorporation in 2003 after serving as outside general counsel for 5 years. She received her Juris Doctor and Masters in Business Administration degrees from Pepperdine University and is a member of the American Bar Association.

Deborah has served as an adjunct professor at the University of West Los Angeles and San Fernando School of Law in the area of corporate and intellectual property law. Because of her extensive knowledge, Sweeney has long served as a speaker and panelist on legal issues affecting new to the world and growing businesses.

Tags: MyCorporation Business Services, Inc., Deborah Sweeney, entrepreneurship trend, business interviews.

Anne Miller: Make What You Say Pay! - Blog Business Success Radio

Listen to Wayne Hurlbert on Blog Talk Radio



Sales and communications speaker, seminar leader, consultant and author of the persuasive and connection building book Make What You Say Pay!, Anne Miller, describes how a simple turn of phrase or an apt metaphor can make your presentations more effective. Metaphors help to clear up confusion and sharpen the overall level of understanding. The clearer the speaker is in providing the message, the more likely sales will be closed, deals will be made, and the speaker becomes unforgettable to the listener. Anne Miller shares how everyone is good at offering metaphors and analogies, and how people understand them as well.

Anne Miller is my internet radio show guest on Blog Business Success; hosted live on BlogTalkRadio.

The show airs live on Tuesday, November 16, at 8:00 pm Eastern Time; 5:00 pm Pacific Time.

Sales and communications speaker, seminar leader, consultant and author of the persuasive and connection building book Make What You Say Pay!, Anne Miller, describes how a simple turn of phrase or an apt metaphor can make your presentations more effective. You will learn:

* Why metaphors help connect the speaker with the audience

* What is metaphor is and how they can improve clarity and enrich engagement

* How to select the right metaphor to convey meaning and understanding

* metaphors help speakers, sales people, politicians, and writers make connections



Anne Miller (photo left) is an internationally respected author, speaker and seminar leader. She teaches sales people how to increase their business; coaches CEOs and senior management to communicate successfully to key constituencies; and enables technical people to transform complex information into simpler, meaningful messages.

Over twenty years, Anne has earned a reputation for her original approaches to broadening the thinking and skill sets of even the most skeptical participants. She runs her programs with a deep understanding of learning theory, and a passion for, and knowledge of, the art and science of professional selling and presentations. Her near one-hundred percent repeat engagement rate for demanding clients like Meredith Corp., Citigroup, Yahoo!, Dow Jones, The Blackstone Group, and the UN reflects her ability to consistently deliver top quality programs with bottom-line results.

Anne is the author of Metaphorically Selling: How to use the magic of metaphors to sell, persuade, & explain anything to anyone," " Presentation Jazz!," 365 Sales Tips for Winning Business " her own newsletters, "The Metaphor Minute," and "Make What You Say, Pay," and numerous articles on the Internet and in business publications like Brandweek and Selling Power. Both NBC Today in New York and Bloomberg News Radio have featured Anne on their shows.

Anneis proud to be an associate with Alan Krinsky Associates, a corporate advertising and agency consultancy designed to increase business and relationships between the two sides of the industry.

Before she created Chiron Associates, Anne was General Manager of a communications company in NYC, worked on Wall Street, and spent five years at Institutional Investor Magazine. In addition, she has a Master's degree from the University of Wisconsin and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

In her spare time, this native New Yorker loves to travel, attend theater, haunt art galleries, perform in amateur cabaret, and participate in lively, cutting edge forums like The Aspen Institute. She is particularly enthusiastic about her pro bono work for the microfinance industry which helps poor women around the world become economically independent. In a fairy-tale romance, Anne recently married someone she knew 30 years ago and now has one terrific husband, two endlessly entertaining step-daughters, and a lovable dog named Daisy.

My book review of Make What You Say Pay! by Anne Miller.

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Let's talk with sales and communications speaker, seminar leader, consultant and author of the persuasive and connection building book Make What You Say Pay!, Anne Miller, as she describes how a simple turn of phrase or an apt metaphor can make your presentations more effective. Metaphors help to clear up confusion and sharpen the overall level of understanding. The clearer the speaker is in providing the message, the more likely sales will be closed, deals will be made, and the speaker becomes unforgettable to the listener. Anne Miller shares how everyone is good at offering metaphors and analogies, and how people understand them as well on Blog Business Success Radio.

Tags: Make What You Say Pay!, Anne Miller, metaphors to enhance communications, Blog Business Success, Blog Talk Radio.

Make What You Say Pay! by Anne Miller - Book review

Make What You Say Pay!

By: Anne Miller

Published: July 14, 2010
Format: Paperback, 164 pages
ISBN-10: 1450583873
ISBN-13: 978-1450583879
Publisher: Chiron Associates, Inc.












"When there is a point to be made, attention to be grabbed, a wish to be remembered, or an audience to persuades, the savviest people in business and in the public eye regularly reach for a metaphor to do the job", writes renowned author, speaker and seminar leader Anne Miller, in her persuasive and connection building book Make What You Say Pay!. The author describes how the simple metaphor, that deepens the rapport with an audience, is a powerful tool for enhancing any message, and for engaging people in conversation and richer understanding.

Anne Miller recognizes the importance of enriching the connection with an audience. Whether a person is selling a product or service, sharing ideas, or working to improve the greater community, being understood is critical to success. When the audience fails to grasp the meaning of the message as presented, the connection is never achieved fully, and the opportunity for engagement may be lost. In many cases, as in the wonderful and inspiring stories presented in the book, a lack of understanding could lead to tragic results. To counter this often encountered problem of lack of comprehension, Anne Miller offers the simple yet powerful solution of employing metaphors. An analogous story or word can create that aha moment when the audience feels a complete oneness with the speaker and the concepts being shared with them.



Anne Miller (photo left) understands that people are bombarded with countless messages on a daily basis. Every one of those communications is vying for attention in an information crowded world. The people sending those messages are all hoping that their ideas, products, or services will reach their desired audience and bring positive results. To the listeners, most of the messages are all garbled together, and very often sound the same, or fail to resonate with them. Anne Miller offers the simple, yet often overlooked metaphor as a way of cutting through the information clutter, and being heard by the intended audience. The metaphor possesses the ability to engage, surprise, and even entertain the audience. As a result, the metaphor captures the audience attention. The metaphor creates a picture in the right brain, moving past the words and logic of the left brain, to engage the entire intellect in new and appealing ways. The use of the metaphor is memorable, because it evokes powerful images that the mind retains, and causes the listener to move to action.

For me, the power of the book is how Anne Miller describes the power of using metaphors when speaking, writing, or engaging an audience. The theory of why metaphors work so well in grabbing and holding attention is supported through practical and actionable techniques for employing metaphors successfully for sales, presentations, speeches, and for creating the impulse to action. Anne Miller shares stories of how metaphors have been used successfully in the real world, to very often achieve tremendous and life changing results.

In a more everyday world, using metaphors will help people connect better with one another in communities, in business, in sales, and for life in general. The real power of metaphor use is that everyone is able to create and offer their own metaphors in any situation. Instead of concerning herself with the various types of comparisons defined in literature classes at school, Anne Miller simplifies metaphor usage to include any comparisons made by the speaker in any circumstances. By keeping her definition of metaphor simple, Anne Miller empowers the speaker to make any comparison, to tell any related story, and to make connections through shared meaning.

I highly recommend the communications enhancing book Make What You Say Pay! by Anne Miller, to anyone seeking to improve their ability to engage and deepen clear understanding with any audience. Whether the person is in sales or marketing, public speaking, public office, community service, or non-profit organizations, the need to engage with the intended audience is essential for success. The use of the simple but powerful metaphor transcends barriers to communication and understanding, enriching the relationship between the speaker and the listener.

Read the competitive edge creating book Make What You Say Pay! by Anne Miller, and empower your speeches, presentations, and communications through the clarity of metaphors. When you employ metaphors, you blast through the background noise of countless other messages seeking the attention of the audience. The metaphor helps your thoughts and ideas stand out from the crowd, achieve results, and builds your success in any endeavor.

Tags: Make What You Say Pay!, Anne Miller, metaphors to enhance communications, business book reviews.