Insight on Business

Opening Day - Insight on Business - 03/31/2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie kicks off, live, today at Noon  Central.  We're part of the Webcast One LIVE network of interactive shows where you can see us...and them...live or wait for the Podcast or Archive Video.  Let's stay in touch during the News Hour on "The Chat" or Twitter - @MichaelLibbie before, during and after.  Here is the show from today.  Video starts at :13 seconds.  All the links are below the video.  Enjoy:

 

Opening Day & Consumers

It's a strange combination.  For decades Americans have spent their time and what money they have watching baseball.  When the economy is rolling along there's lots of competition for our entertainment dollars.   However, when consumers get nervous...baseball gets a boost.  Why?  We'll visit about our thoughts in the opening segment.  BTW - Tigers vs. Yankees in NYC today.  Go...TIGERS!

 Trust - Have You Got It?

We've talked about it for years.  To achieve long term sustainable results for your business you must be able to be trusted.  We've also talked about that as it relates to advertising and marketing.   For those of you who "buy into" that process here's a short piece about Jim Quigley the Deloitte CEO.  It's from our friends at N2Growth...enjoy.

Trust But Verify

Where have we heard those words before?  Maybe, and I don't do politics, somebody might want to suggest that line to our good friend Tim Albrecht and his boss Governor Branstad.  Seems that a bill to help create more transparency in government is stuck (again).  The Iowa Governor doesn't so much like the idea of open records and real...transparency.  Is it any wonder why so many people have simply lost faith in "the system".  Seems, to us, the system needs a good dose of whoop-ass.  Here is the story from Jason Clayworth and the Des Moines Register.

Three Steps to Positive Customer Relations...For Life

I know, you get weary of us telling you HOW to build a lasting relationship with consumers.  But, that's our job.  And, just so you don't think we pull this stuff out of our backside...here's the latest story (nothing new here really) from Eric Groves of Constant Contact.  Go on...you can read it now...and listen to what we'll say later.

Who is Tweeting Who?

We touched on this story yesterday when we were visiting with Phil K. James about using social media for marketing.  Seems that a new survey from Yahoo News.  What does it mean?  We'll tell you today and we'll also share the flaws in the conclusion.  OK?  Very nice...we're getting along so well!

Smartphone Market to Grow by 50% This Year

If 2010 was a "coming out party" for Smartphones, 2011 will ice the cake.  In this report from BizReport it looks like Android will continue to dominate market share.  (I know, I should have listened to my Bride.)  The critical message here is...what is your business doing about it.  We've got TWO critical messages for you today.  Things that you MUST do...now if you want to have a place at the table.  Come on, you know already right?

The Worst Ad of the Week!

We don't do this to be mean...however it has crossed our minds.   We show and share with you some really lousy advertising messages so that YOU won't make the same mistake.   We'll share our winner in the final segment of the News Hour.

That's a Wrap!

Thanks for coming by.  Insight on Business News Hour is brought to you by:

Bindery One - The highest quality digital printing in the country...that can also handle your direct mail program! - www.Bindery1.com

Weed Out Hate - It's time to dream what it might be like.  Join the dream:  www.WeedOutHate.org

NatraTurf - Chemical Free Lawns & Gardens - They will be, this weekend, at the Natural Living Expo in Des Moines...how about you?  www.NatraTurf.com

Exceptional Specialty Products - They know what you want.  www.esp4all.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shaking It Up - Phil K. James - 03/30/2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is brought to you by:  Bindery One www.Bindery1.com, Weed Out Hate www.WeedOutHate.org, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com and Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com thanks for coming by!

We're live today at Noon Central with marketing, advertising and consumer trend news and tips.  Catch us live at Webcast One LIVE or wait for the podcast or archived show...which you can get here or on our network, Webcast One LIVE.  Here's the video from today.  Starts at :23...enjoy.

 

Today:

Joining us in studio is Phil K. James a financial adviser who is also a  restaurant marketer.  WHOA...  How do those two things come together?  We'll share more about Phil (and what the "K" means...) right after these stories we're following today.

How LONG Has It Been?

Yesterday I received a note from a "former" client.  Former because they decided, two years ago, they could, "Handle our own marketing and advertising."  We bid them farewell.  I should have stayed in touch and kicking myself that I didn't.  Why?  We'll share that story with you today.  The reality is...it's not a rare story and it happens all the time.  All the time.  (I just want to same business people from self-distruction...honest.)

GroupOn Chief Moves On...

Rob Solomon, the president and COO of Groupon, is leaving the Chicago based company as soon as they find a replacement. He has been there for a whole year.  NO word from Groupon why.  Meanwhile smaller independent and local based "deal sites" continue to spring up all across the country and show they can do more...for less.  We'll tell you more.

When Should You Send That Marketing E-Mail?

If you are into marketing with e-mail you know the issue...  We've heard it all from "early in the morning" to "mid-afternoon".  So, how about an expert opinion?  Here's a neat post from Rose Gordon for Direct Marketing News.  Ths short story:  Peak Open Rates during the week:  11:30am - 2:00pm and on weekends "open rates" don't peak until 4PM.  Hey, we do what we can for you!

Phil K. James and Shaking Up the Milk

Phil and I have been friends for a long time.  We even went to his house last year to collect...used rock.  Don't ask.  We've been after him to come on the show and talk about his marketing work for Gusto Pizza Co. of Des Moines.  (Remember those videos?  Phil.)  What is so interesting about Phil is that he is a financial adviser...and a marketer.  Two things that often don't collide.  We'll talk about both and his restaurant marketing business - Good Milkshake, the Mars Cafe (yep, that too) where he is going now and some tips for those of you who "think" you know marketing...but.  OK, we'll not judge.  Phil K. James (We'll also learn what the "K" means.) with his Insight on Business...today at Noon Central.

Let's Keep in Touch -

During the News Hour you can use "The Chat" to ask or answer questions or head to Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after.  Send me an e-mail find us on Facebook or ship up a smoke signal.  The idea is to continue the conversation.  Thanks!! 

 

Insight on Business News Hour - March 29, 2011

The Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie comes your way live at  Noon Central.  Our focus is on marketing, advertising and consumer trends in business.  With a little opinion thrown in.  You can catch us live  here at Webcast One Live www.WebcastOneLIVE.com  or download the podcast or archive show anytime.  Let's go...Here is the show from today.  Video starts at :22 and all the links are below.

 

A Lot of Bull....

Actually it was a little bull.  My long-time friend Johnny Hopkinswas to have been our guest today.  We were going to talk about the business of miniature bull riding and Tuff N' Nuff Rodeo.  No kidding.  However a "critter emergency in Utah" kept him there and not here.  We'll re-schedule because you will be amazed at what he's doing and how.

Welcome Courtney Tompkins!

Our client, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com manufactures and sells a line of   natural, organic lawn and garden products.  We've worked together for years designing packaging, marketing items and building their advertising message.  For well over a year we've pushed them towards more public relations, both in person and using new media.  Two weeks ago we concluded our interview process and yesterday announced, in a tiny way, the addition of Courtney to the marketing team.  I'll share more later today. We're excited for her, for NatraTurf and for the consumer.  Nice move and congratulations.

Speaking of Clients & People

I'll share a video today about my old friend Craig Cameron in his new role as a spokesperson for Running Horse Feeds.  Craig, for those of you who know not equine, is one of the worlds best horse trainers.  Good guy and we're glad to be working with him again.  We shot a bunch of video...and some out-takes and, just for fun...we'll show you.  The photo?  It was taken years ago someplace "on the road".  Craig hasn't changed a bit.  Me?  Let's NOT go there.

New York Times Charges for Viewing

This week the New York Times started charging people to view their on-line content.  The "Pay-Go" rational has been floating around for a very long time.  There is a downside to the plan.  And it has leaks...for that story here is a piece from Danny Sullivan from Search Engine Land.   They know it...and you will to, after we tell you.

Top Ten Dying Industries

Put a fork in 'em...they're done?  Our friends over at The Wall Street Journal has a list of the Top Ten Dying Industries...among them... Apparel Manufacturing!  HUH?  We'll run down the list for you today.  BUT...if you just can't wait.  Here is the link to the story.  We'll give our take during the News Hour. Not so sure we agree.

That's it...we'll cover those stories and more today at Noon.  Insight on Business News Hour is brought to you by: 

Weed Out Hate - Marc Daniels has a great idea and we think you should learn more - www.WeedOutHate.org

Bindery One - A family run digital printing company that does business nationwide.  (I just saw a piece for West Point...yesterday).  www.Bindery1.com

NatraTurf - Now with...more!  www.NatraTurf.com

Exceptional Specialty Products - They KNOW what you want:  www.esp4all.com

See you LIVE at noon...oh.  @MichaelLibbie before during and after the show?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metro Monday - March 28, 2011

It's the Metro Monday Edition of Insight on Business News Hour the day we take a  look at marketing and business news a little closer to home.  Brought to you by Bindery One www.Bindery1.com, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com, Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com and Weed Out Hate www.weedouthate.orgwe're on today at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE www.WebcastOneLIVE.com join us?

Here is the show from today.  All the links are under the video which starts at :18 seconds.  Enjoy:

 

Today

Imagine heading out to a intimate bar after a show or a meal and running into your friend who has told you he doesn't drink.   No big deal because it's not a traditional bar but a dessert bar where couples can snuggle in with decadent chocolate tarts...  Imagine.  Today we'll visit with Danny Duff who is Melt Dessert Bar & Bakery.  We think this is very cool.  More about Danny after these stories.

Back to Trust & Value

Maybe you forgot?  We can understand.  Things are rolling along, sales are increasing, revenue is better.  But still consumers are wary.  In fact Bloomberg reports that consumer confidence fell to it's lowest point since March 2010.  That means what?  We'll review today.

Waukee is "Underserved"?

We found this short story from the Business Record...interesting.  Seems Denny Elwell (mega developer from Ankeny) looked west and saw an "underserved" area in Waukee for commercial development and real estate.  Could be.  At the rate commercial space is opening up downtown...west just might be where it is?

Hanging with Washington, Jefferson and Others...

Our friend Jay Byers posted, yesterday, that the Des Moines Partnership will be including a stop at Gadsby's Tavern during the upcoming legislative trip to Washington, DC.  The trip, DM/DC, is intended to educate congress about the needs of the metro area and how businesses in the Metro can better understand and communicate with government.  Changing times also means the Partnership will not use a private charter aircraft this year.  Heading east on a direct Delta flight.  Here is the link to the info.

Iowa's Uemployment Rate - Steady

In February, according to this story from the Des Moines Register, Iowa gained 3,700 jobs.  The increase comes mostly from the hospitality industry.  What is key to the story is the fact that this marks the highest employment in the state since April of 2009.  Even with all the good news...over 102,000 Iowans are still out of work and experts say that number is really lower than the actual figure as some people have simply quit looking.

Iowa Agriculture - Worried

The Iowa Soybean Association sent out a urgent plea to its members this past Friday.   Seems the Ag Protection Bill is stalled in the Iowa Senate.  The Ag Protection Bill makes it a crime to, among other things, gain employment on a farm or agricultural processing facility, take videos of say animal cruelty issues and then release the footage to the media.  The Soybean Association is worried that members of the Senate Committee are being influenced by, "...animal rights advocates - many of whom are not their constituants."  In other words...folks that ain't got nothin' to do with Iowa and agriculture but who are pushing their "agenda" when it comes to critters.  We've said from the start this is a bad bill and an even worse public relations move for Iowa Ag.  There is a smarter way...we'll share that today.

Melt in Your Mouth Goodness

Danny Duff will be in studio today talking about Melt Dessert Bar and Bakery.  It's, what we think, is a great idea.  A little on the niche side of things...but still very cool.  We'll talk to him about what and where and why.  We'll also dig a little deeper into the things they bring to their table...or yours.  Danny Duff with his insight on business today.  Join us with your questions, answers and comment in The Chat or follow me before, during and after on Twitter @MichaelLibbie. 

See you at Noon!

  

 

 

 

The Business of War & Peace - 03/24/2011

The Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is part of Webcast One LIVE where you can catch the news on marketing, advertising and consumer trends live at Noon Central or watch an archive show...or podcast...on your time.  And we connect on Twitter @MichaelLibbie (before during and after the hour), use The Chat or call us during the show at 515-244-4655.  For Webcast One LIVE - @WebcastOneLive - Let's go!  Here is the show from today - Video starts at nineteen seconds.  Links to the stories are below this video.

 

Marc Daniels & The Business of Peace

Our guest today is international businessman Marc Daniels who joins us live in studio.  Marc is from Springfield, IL and has been the driving force behind an international program called Weed Out Hate.  Marc travels the world promoting his idea of replacing the "weeds of hate" with the "flower of peace".  When the bus bombing took place yesterday in Israel we connected with Marc and he has connected us with international journalist Ulrich Sahm (photo below) who will be joining us live from his office in Jerusalem.

A 'side note' about Ulrich...he has an amazing Schindler's List story if we can get him to discuss...  

While we don't do politics we do focus on consumers and action and reaction.  We think there are some powerful business lessons here.  Can gardening...bring world peace?  Join us for an international discussion on the business of peace...and hate.  And, yes, we'll take your calls.

Are You Working At Producing Quality?

We follow Seth Godin (and you should too).  His short, to the point blogs are huge thought starters.  In this piece he suggests we should help migrate "angry birds" away from our computer and focus...focus...focus on creating quality.  Not garbage.  WHOOT!  A comment on this and something I learned last night.  Some folks can't take humor...yikes!

The Worst Ad of the Week

No, we didn't forget...  Today we'll show you a dramatic...high cost ad from a national company that we think...fails to make a point.  But, then again, we might be missing it. 

Insight on Business News Hour is brought to you by: Bindery One www.Bindery1.com, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com and Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com

Thanks for coming by!  Hope you are having a great Thursday! 

 

Tom Laughlin & Barns - 03/23/2011

Insight on Business News Hour is brought to you by: Bindery One www.Bindery1.com, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com & Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com thanks for your support.

Welcome back...here is Central Iowa "Spring" became "Early Spring" as storms  ripped through ahead of a cold front...  What a change.  We're part of Webcast One LIVE and you can see our news hour today at noon...live...or download a podcast of our show or any by heading to our site, www.WebcastOneLIVE.com.  Here is the news hour from today - the video starts in fifty-eight seconds.

 

Tom Laughlin - Barns and Award Winning Video Stories

  If you've followed us for a bit you know about the Maplenol Dairy Barn Issue.  Several years ago I had a conversation with Tom Laughlin a video journalist from Kovia Productions based in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.  Tom will join us, via Skype, to talk about his award winning PBS video work, his love for old barns and the stories he's telling.  Great stuff with an accomplished artist. Tom Laughlin with his insight on the video business and the way we tell stories today.

Be a Better Twitter Host

Yesterday we talked about how, if you are involved in #Hashtag Events on Twitter, you might become a better...host.  Here is the piece I wrote after the show, for those of you who were not writing stuff down.  ;-)  It's from our Insight Advertising Agency Blog...   By the way, last night on #Agchat we were talking about water issues.  Amazing conversations being held out there...if you engage.

Big UPS - My Friend Thomas Allen IV

Yesterday I re-connected with my friend Thomas Allen IV of Thomas Allen Outdoors.  Here is the link to yesterday's show.  There are not two people further apart on a host of things from food to politics but we admire and like each other.  We work well together and respect each other.  Two thoughts about that:  1)  Wouldn't life be better if those of us who disagree started to see value in true friendship and 2)  Nobody is 100% right...all of the time.   Why am I sharing this with you?  Because within ten minutes following the show we cooked up a new business idea.  You never know where...the great ideas hatch.   More to come.

$112 Billion in Wasted Advertising Dollars

Consumers turn off and tune out most broad-based advertising and marketing messages.  So says Tom Suther, chief marketing officer at Acxion the world's largest processor of consumer data.  It's called, "consumer numbness".  What to do?  We found this article exceptional.  If you have been with us over the years you know we've talked about doing the hard work to connect with consumers rather than just bark at them.   When you read the article...you might understand.  Great stuff.

Vote for Unleash Heroes Here

Several times over the past two weeks we've talked about our friend Robert Hidajat and his new startup, Unleash Hereos. (A way to recognize and reward volunteer activity for any charity.)  Robert recently entered into a Lean Challenge competition where his new venture could win enough to launch...big.  Currently sitting in 5th place (out of 79 in the running) he could use our help.  If you are so motivated to help out a neat idea head to Twitter and use #leanvote21.  You can only vote once and the competition closes this evening.  Thanks!!!

That's it.  We have those stories, the stocks, your input and more today at Noon Central.  To connect with us you can use The Chat, call the studio 515-244-4655 or Twitter before, during or after the hour.  Thanks for coming by.

 

 

 

 

Really? - Insight on Business - March 22, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is part of Webcast One LIVE.  You can catch the hour live today at Noon Central or download the podcast or archive video from our network of shows.  To stay in touch leave a comment here, drop me an e-mail, join me on Twitter or call our studio during the show at: 515-244-4655.  Here is the show which starts at 22-seconds.  The links are below the video...ejoy!

 

Thomas Allen IV - In The House...

Today, along with the stories below, we're going to hook up with my friend Thomas Allen IV.  Thomas is an avid outdoors-man, hunter, angler and not too long ago struck out on his own with media business, "Outdoor Pursuits with Thomas Allen".  It's going to be great to re-connect with him and learn more about the ups and downs of the business of...business.  Thomas Allen IV with his Insight on Business...today.

Ewwww....what is THAT he is holding?  Yikes!!!!

Get a Website BEFORE You Dive Into Social Media...

My good friend Claire Celsi posted an amazing piece of advice this week.  Here is her post.  In a nut-shell it seems that the glitter of social media must have caught the eye of some and they are so mesmerized by it's shine they forgot to build a website...first.  Really?  Uhm...we need to talk and once again...we'll have this discussion of what comes first.  I dunno...I just thought this picture told the story.  Without a good site, you're naked.

Trade Show Woes

I know...stop already with the examples of lazy companies and their lazy attempt to engage the public at trade shows.  (Actually I found this image interesting...and somehow effective.) For the life of me friends, I can't figure out why a company would spend thousands of dollars on doing a trade show and then fail...fail...at meeting and engaging the public.  Maybe you can help me understand?  If you are in business and do trade shows...I would LOVE to hear from you.  We'll share some horror stories today and some tips (again) that I hope help.

Thank You!

Insight on Business is brought to you by Bindery One www.bindery1.com, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com and Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com Thank you for your support.

Protecting Farm Animals - This Doesn't Do The Job

Here in Iowa there is a bill rushing through the legislature that would make it a crime for a person to film and distribute the film showing criminal activity.  That is how paranoid animal agriculture has become.  We think it's the worst public relations decision since Ford suggested there was nothing wrong with the Pinto.  It's a history lesson for those of you under 40 and a PR lesson for those of you in business.

That Brings Us To This -

Given our rush to protect farm animals by banning the filming of their conditions I couldn't help but think... "Wonder if the Des Moines Register received proper written approval to shoot footage on this story?"   If not...would they be breaking the law?  Sorry, could not resist...

Garden Chat & Some Observations

Let's say you're the new person on the block...or at the party...or at work.  You  walk in, look around.  People who know people are having conversations and focused on their interaction.  Most ignore you.  So...building up some confidence you approach one or two and ask as question.  They ignore you...three times.  Would you stay?  Some observations on Twitter Chat Events...and some tips on how to make them more effective...and welcoming.

Burger King - And You Thought You Spent Ad Money

Sometimes we just like to throw things out to keep your life in perspective.  I know lots of small business people watch and/or listen to Insight on Business and to balance things out we'll often give you something to think about.  Last year Burger King spent $301 million on US advertising.  Did YOU have a Burger King burger last year?  Anyway, they are looking for a new advertising agency to ramp up a new campaign. Here is the story from our friends at Advertising Age.   I wonder...

Those stories, the stocks, your input and more today at Noon Central...thanks for coming by! 

 

 

 

Twestival & Metro Monday - 03/21/2011

Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is brought to you by, Bindery One www.Bindery1.com, NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com & Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com - Welcome!

Today is Monday!

It's a brand new week and that means the Metro Monday Edition of Insight on Business.  Our guest today is Renda Lutz who's in talking about the Des Moines Metro Twestival. Here is the show from today.  The Video starts at 22 seconds. It's all from www.WebcastOneLIVE.com.  More on Renda, the project and the links under the video.

 

Dwolla - Another Breakthrough

We're lovin' this!  Dwolla, last week, announced Dwolla Spots for your smart phone.  Here's how it works:  We're pretty much used to those "locator pins" on our mobile devices right?  Now, when you are in a place that accepts Dwolla you simply click on the pin and your bill is paid from your Dwolla account.  Over 750 locations now accept this form of payment that costs the business $.25 per transaction...not the two to four percent from credit card companies.  And...yes, it's secure.  Learn more about this Des Moines based idea and how it all works:   Here is the full story from our friends at TNW!  Rock on Ben!

George Goes for Zombie Burgers!

Not content to be known as the "Best Chef" in Des Moines...our friend George Formaro loves to get edgy and is doing that with Zombie Burger & Drink Lab.  It's a way to blend his interest in horror movies with something fun and creative.   If you know George...that's  how he rolls.  The new restaurant will join the family of Centro, Django and Gateway Market...but here you can get something to eat until 4am!   PROOF ladies and gentlemen that Des Moines doesn't roll up the streets at 8:00PM!  Here is the full story from our friends at the Des Moines Register.  You can get your "Zombie On" in the E300 Building in the East Village - 300 East Fourth Street and Grand Avenue...very soon.

Notice a bunch of interesting restaurants opening recently?

After YOU Bailed THEM Out...

The nation's biggest banks plan to raise dividends according to this story by our friends at the Business Record.  We think it's interesting to note that, in this new political climate, the billions that went to the banks was a good thing, but allowing teachers and the folks who pick up your garbage to be able to negotiate wages and benefits is a bad thing.  Last time I looked there were more teachers and garbage workers than members of the Board of Directors of Wells Fargo...something seem odd? - OK...no politics...

Unemployed in Iowa?  Suck it up!

I'll give you the back-story on this...I heard from my friend Kraig Paulsen the Majority Leader of the Iowa House of Representatives.  He gave me a terse three word answer to my direct question.  I'll share.

Iowa State University an "Animal Care Monopoly"?

Whoa...  I missed this.  On Sunday I visited with my friend who is part of a new emergency animal clinic in Des Moines that Iowa State University is trying to shut down.  Iowa State says the doctors breached their non-compete and the doctors say Iowa State is attempting to create an animal care monopoly.  I know some of the doctors...and I know the big business that is at Iowa State.  This will be interesting to watch. Here is the article from the Des Moines Register from this past Friday.

Twistival & Renda Lutz

Our guest rolls in just ahead of Twestival - Des Moines the March 24th fund raising effort going on...nearly everywhere.  Here in Des Moines the event is raising funds for the Eveyln Davis Early Learning Academy.  In to talk about the local angle is our good friend Renda Lutz.  Renda is THE net-worker here in the Metro.  We'll talk about Twestival - Des Moines the value of networking for business and personal reasons and what and where she thinks are the best networking spots for business.  That's today with Renda Lutz and her insight on Business.

Join us LIVE at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE (or...you can always download the archived show or the podcast later).  Want to connect?  Leave me a comment here, send me an e-mail, follow me on Twitter @MichaelLibbie or call the studio at 515-244-4655.  Thanks for coming by!!   

 

 

A Consumer Trend Worth Billions - 03/17/2011

Insight on Business News & Opinion with Michael Libbie is brought to you by:  NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com, Bindery One www.Bindery1.com; Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com

Here is the show from today for the Podcast you can go to  Webcast One LIVE - www.WebcastOneLive.com thanks for coming by.  The video starts at eighteen seconds.  Enjoy, links are below the video.

 

Consumer Trends - Gardening - Lawn Care and Dollars

It's an industry that cranks out billions of dollars in sales and an activity that is growing among all demographicsin the United States.  No longer locked into homeowners with yards...plant care is on a steep increase. There is huge interest in conservation, Gardening with a Purpose, Consumer Supported Agriculture (CSA) and so much more.

Joining us for most of the hour is Suzi McCoy from the Garden Media Group.  We're going to discuss consumer trends:  Who is engaged, how much each person buys in  lawn and garden products...why and what the future holds for this most interesting of retail sales demographics.  Suzi McCoy, live from her office in Pennsylvania, joining us for the hour.  This is a must see for retailers as well as consumers.  Join us...and spread the word.  On Twitter we're #IOBGarden to join the conversation.  You can ask/answer @MichaelLibbie or @SeedsForThought  (Lynne Whelan) use the #IOBGarden to follow or online during the show we've got The Chat here www.WebcastOneLIVE.com 

Suzi McKoy, Lynne Whelan and their Insight on Business today - Noon Central...

Worst Ad of the Week

And, no we did not forget.  Today is Thursday and...like all Thursday's we'll bring you the Worst Ad of the Week.  We don't do this to be mean...but to show you some examples of what you...should NOT do.  Ever.  Big companies to small...  We'll show you today toward the end of the news hour.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

For those of you who are Irish...might you have a special, blessed day.  To know the history of the Irish people...is to know so much.  Enjoy.  For those of us who are NOT Irish...may we borrow a few hours?  

Those stories, the stocks and your comments today at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE!  Thanks for coming by.... 

 

Tech Talk - Joe Hobot - 03/16/2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is brought to you by:  Bindery One www.Bindery1.com - NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com - Exceptional Specialty Products www.esp4all.com

We've got a host of stories for you during our live show - Noon Central - here at  Webcast One LIVE and you're invited to participate in "The Chat", with Twitter @MichaelLibbie or give us a call 515-244-4655.  Let's go...The video starts in 19-seconds.  All the links are below...and listen to the announcement at the end of the hour.  Amazing...

 

Our guest today is Joe Hobot of MWD Technology.  More about Joe and what we'll talk about below.

Is Iowa Making History or A Mistake?

This is National Agriculture Week...I know, most of you are going, "What?  I had no idea that agriculture had a week!"  We do and we use the week to highlight the progress made as the United States continues to feed more and more people on the same or shrinking available land.  It's really an accomplishment and something to celebrate. 

At the same time there is a bill speeding through both chambers of the Iowa Legislature that is troublesome.  We'll talk about banning the practice of doing photography on Iowa farms...punishable as a felony.  We think it is a monumental public relations train wreck.  For the back-story here is the piece I wrote yesterday for Rural Life Radio.

Want To Score Big With E-Mail Marketing?

Everybody talks about the best way to engage consumers.  Some believe direct marketing with e-mail works well.  Us too...when it's done right.  We've said, on this program many times, that messages that bang on "selling" rather than offer a service relationship fall flat. Now a recent survey reported in Direct Marketing News says if you message on service or editorial you stand a better chance of a click in.  Side note:  Dear Direct Marketing News:  You need to work on your video presentation....oh my.

Productivity and Work From Home

Yesterday we had a story about the benefits of working from home and I mentioned a study that indicated productivity was higher among those who did not have to commute and companies saved vast amounts of money by not requiring employees to occupy space in an office setting...at least not five or six days a week.  Ben McDougal from Global Reach asked about the survey and the numbers.  You might have bee wondering too.  Here you go...just one of several studies this one happens to be from Cisco. 

Joe Hobot & Tech Talk

Joe is a retuning guest.  Last year we had a great discussion about "what's next" in the world of technology and conversation.  He gave a prediction and two days later...it came to pass.  We'll tell you about that, share some stories about the new iPad2 and muse about...the future.  Joe is the primary at MWD Technology and you can reach him on Twitter @DMJoe.  Joe Hobot with his insight on business today...join us?

Thanks for coming by...and remember if you miss the live show you can always download the archive video and/or podcast here at Webcast One LIVE...we'll also post today's show here for later viewing.  Have a great Wednesday!