🤝 I'm Jada, specializing in custom promotional apparel and products for Houston corporations, driving brand visibility and engagement through tailored solutions.
 
With over a decade at Sysco, I earned multiple awards as a District Sales Manager and served as Director of Category Management. I led a team managing $𝟮𝟮𝟰𝗠 𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲 and oversaw 𝟭,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿k, including the six largest national food brokerages.

Now, as a mompreneur, I combine my corporate acumen with a passion for creativity, offering bespoke solutions that meet the unique needs of my corporate clients.

👉 We specialize in custom-designed apparel, embroidery, brand design, and promotional products, all tailored to help Houston corporations stand out in today's competitive market. 

My commitment to excellence and attention to detail ensures that our clients receive high-quality products and exceptional service, every time.

👫In addition to my startup, I'm a dedicated cheer mom, sports mom, and dog mama to two lovely doggies. 

Balancing these roles has taught me the importance of organization, perseverance, and dedication—qualities I bring to every client project. 

𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗜 𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗣 𝗬𝗢𝗨

I work with companies in the 𝗢𝗶𝗹, 𝗚𝗮𝘀, 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 sectors to enhance their brands through premium promotional apparel and products. 

We understand the demanding environments and specific branding needs of these industries. 

Whether it's outfitting your team with durable, branded workwear or creating memorable promotional items for industry events, my solutions help reinforce your brand's strength and professionalism.

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗪𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗗𝗢 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗬𝗢𝗨

My journey from corporate sales to mompreneurship has been driven by a desire to combine professional expertise with personal passion. 

We believe in the power of strong branding to make a lasting impact.

Our team is dedicated to helping your business stand out with high-quality, custom solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Join me in transforming your brand vision into reality with 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 that truly make an impact. 

Your success is our priority, and we're committed to exceeding your expectations with every project.

Together, we can create a brand experience that not only captures attention but also builds lasting connections.

📩 Contact us today to discover how our custom promotional products and apparel solutions can enhance your brand.

Jada Powell

Do you want to be seen as more than just another vendor? 

🌎Try this: always know what's really moving in your client's world.

Too many sales reps and consultants fall into the trap of showing up with the same pitch, the same materials, and the same assumptions. 

The reality is the leaders making decisions in Oil & Gas, Energy and Construction are dealing with new questions every day. 

They're watching commodity prices, supply chains, geopolitics, and safety all at once.

If you're not speaking to what's keeping them up at night this quarter, you're just another name in their inbox.

Yesterday, I had the privilege of joining the Joint Meeting AADE Houston and American Petroleum Institute (API) Houston Chapter where Jeff Krimmel from KSG - Krimmel Strategy Group was the keynote speaker. 

♻️He didn't show up with recycled slides or recycled wisdom. 

He broke down his latest research on what upstream (E&P) and oilfield service companies are actually prioritizing now, not just what made headlines last year.

One thing that stood out: he dove deep into the latest developments around Venezuela. 

That sparked real debate in the room. 

The risks, the future potential, the uncertainty for U.S. energy. 

It made me realize truly valuable partners aren't repeating what's already in the Wall Street Journal. 

They're connecting the dots, making sense of the noise, and helping clients see around corners.

So, why does this matter for anyone in the business of branded workwear, custom apparel, or promotional products? 

Because being relevant goes beyond the fabric and the logo. 

📉It's about knowing how those details fit into your client's strategy. 

When you walk into a meeting or send out a proposal, your clients will remember the person who referenced the latest merger in their sector, 

or who understood how new regulations might impact site safety standards and, in turn, uniform requirements.

Clients want someone who can speak their language. 

The stakes are often bigger than the apparel order form. 

It's about brand reputation, safety compliance, team morale, and sometimes, even community perception. 

If you're up to date and curious about what's happening in their world, you're immediately in a different league.

The takeaway here is simple: never stop learning. 

Carve out time each week to scan the latest news in your target sectors, 

ask clients about their biggest challenges, 

and don't be afraid to bring up tough topics. 

Even if you don't have all the answers, showing that you care enough to ask the right questions sets you apart.

I'm interested to hear how others are staying ahead of the curve. 

Are you finding creative ways to keep your industry knowledge sharp? 

How do you make sure your suggestions are timely, not just "good enough"?

What's your go-to method for staying relevant in a changing market?

📸@ginger-r-391ba632 Mari Salcido and camera man extraordinaire Rick Cannon

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Hi [name]

Do you think custom socks are a great gifting idea?

Who in your career has shown up for you when it counted? 

houston-apparel-co

OSHA Construction Industry Course Certificate

Houston Apparel Co. specializes in elevating business brands through premium quality products and exceptional service. 

Our commitment to superior craftsmanship and client-focused solutions sets us apart in a competitive market.

At Houston Apparel Co., we believe that every brand deserves to shine. 

Our mission is to help businesses achieve this by providing top-tier products that not only meet but exceed expectations. From the moment you engage with us, you'll experience our dedication to excellence in every aspect of our service.

Our team works tirelessly to ensure that each product we deliver is crafted to perfection. 

We understand the importance of attention to detail, and this is reflected in the high standards we maintain throughout our production process. 

Whether it's selecting the finest materials or employing the latest techniques, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of quality.

But it's not just about the products. At Houston Apparel Co., we pride ourselves on our client-focused approach. 

We take the time to understand your brand, your vision, and your unique needs. This enables us to create solutions that are tailored specifically to you, ensuring that the end result is not just satisfactory but truly exceptional.

Our exceptional service extends beyond the initial sale. 

We're committed to building long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support and guidance to help your brand continue to grow and thrive. 

We believe that our success is intrinsically linked to yours, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

What sets Houston Apparel Co. apart is our unwavering commitment to our core values: quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction. These values drive everything we do and are the foundation upon which we have built our reputation.

If you are looking to elevate your business brand with products that reflect the highest standards of quality and service, look no further than Houston Apparel Co. 

Thrilled to announce the launch of Houston Apparel Co., a venture co-founded with my business partner and fellow mompreneur, Venessa Homewood. 

Drawing from the success and lessons from our corporate roles we're poised to propel Houston Apparel Co. to new heights.

Houston Apparel Co. was born out of our shared vision to enhance business brands through premium quality products and exceptional service. 

Venessa and I, both driven by our entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence, have created a company that specializes in solving custom apparel sourcing for corporations and SMBs alike.

We've established two distinct divisions to cater to the unique needs of our clients. 

Our Corporate Division focuses on providing large-scale, custom apparel solutions for businesses looking to enhance their brand identity. 

Meanwhile, our SMB Division offers personalized, flexible solutions for small and medium-sized businesses, ensuring that every company, regardless of size, can access premium quality products and services.

At Houston Apparel Co., we're dedicated to offering top-notch products that reflect the quality and professionalism of our clients’ brands. 

Our client-focused approach ensures that every interaction is tailored to meet the specific needs of our customers, providing a seamless and satisfying experience. 

We offer a wide range of customization options, allowing businesses to create unique apparel that truly represents their brand. Staying ahead of industry trends, we deliver innovative designs that make our clients stand out.

Starting Houston Apparel Co. has been an inspiring journey of collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to excellence drives us to continually push boundaries and exceed expectations.

Venessa and I are excited to embark on this new venture, knowing that our dedication and hard-earned expertise will propel Houston Apparel Co. to become a leader in the custom apparel industry.

Co-Founder

The journey to founding Dottie's Designs began during the challenging times of COVID-19. After being laid off from a major corporation, I faced uncertainty about the future. My dog, Dottie, was a beacon of light, providing comfort and joy when I needed it most. Inspired by her unwavering support, I named my business after her, symbolizing resilience and hope.

As a mompreneur, balancing home life and starting a new business was no easy feat. With a family to support, I knew I could do more with my life and decided to jump in feet first into the world of custom apparel. I took on multiple roles—salesperson, marketer, logistics manager, and accountant—learning and adapting as I went along. Each day presented new challenges, but also new opportunities to grow and innovate.

Starting from scratch, I immersed myself in learning about custom apparel, driven by a passion for creativity and a desire to make a meaningful impact. Overcoming initial doubts, I embraced each challenge, gradually building confidence and expertise. Dottie's Designs quickly grew from a small venture into a thriving business, known for its unique designs and personalized service.

Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with my responsibilities at home required a great deal of perseverance and dedication. Late nights and early mornings became routine as I worked tirelessly to build a brand that resonated with customers. The support from my family and the joy of seeing my business grow kept me motivated.

Through dedication and perseverance, I transformed a difficult period into an opportunity for growth and innovation. 

Little did I know, this was setting me up for my next opportunity. My journey with Dottie's Designs not only allowed me to create a successful business but also reinforced the importance of resilience, passion, and believing in oneself. This experience showed me that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to redefine our paths and achieve remarkable success.

Founder, Principal

In my tenure, I gained valuable skills and insights that have uniquely prepared me for entrepreneurship.

I oversaw product categories and managed strategic broker relationships, driving impressive sales growth through innovative initiatives. My responsibilities included developing and executing category management plans, focusing on optimizing product assortment, competitive pricing, and effective promotion strategies.

By analyzing market trends and consumer behavior, I ensured our product lines exceeded customer expectations, resulting in substantial revenue growth. Working with strategic brokers, I forged and nurtured strong, performance-driven partnerships, implementing strategies that enhanced broker productivity and collaboration—skills invaluable for any aspiring entrepreneur.

I played a crucial role in crafting and executing sales and marketing strategies aligned with the company's goals. This involved identifying growth opportunities and launching innovative products. Leading a diverse team of category managers and brokers, I refined my leadership and mentorship abilities, fostering a culture of innovation, teamwork, and excellence.

My tenure was marked by significant achievements, including driving remarkable revenue growth and expanding our market footprint through successful new product launches and strategic market entry initiatives. My contributions were recognized through accolades for exceptional performance and dedication to the company's success.

These experiences have honed my strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and results-oriented approach—essential qualities for a successful entrepreneur. The skills I gained in strategic planning, relationship management, and performance optimization have equipped me to build and lead a thriving business.

As I embark on my entrepreneurial journey, I'm eager to leverage these experiences to create innovative solutions and drive meaningful impact. Director of Category Management and Strategic Broker Network

Director of Category Management and Strategic Broker Network

Serving as a District Sales Manager at Sysco has been an invaluable experience that has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful future as an entrepreneur. 

This role has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of sales, leadership, and strategic planning, all of which are essential for running a successful business.

Managing a diverse team of Marketing Associates has honed my leadership abilities. I learned how to motivate, mentor, and guide a team towards achieving common goals. These skills are crucial for any entrepreneur who must inspire and lead a team to success.

Developing and implementing sales strategies to meet district targets has given me a strong foundation in strategic planning. I learned how to analyze market trends, identify opportunities, and create actionable plans. This experience is directly transferable to the strategic thinking required to launch and grow a business.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients was at the core of my role at Sysco. 

Understanding client needs and providing tailored solutions taught me the importance of customer-centricity in business. As an entrepreneur, this ability to connect with and satisfy customers will be vital to building a loyal customer base.

Monitoring and analyzing sales performance has given me a keen eye for identifying strengths and areas for improvement. This analytical skill is essential for any entrepreneur, as it allows for continuous improvement and adaptation in a competitive business environment.

In conclusion, my role as a District Sales Manager at Sysco has prepared me to take on the challenges of entrepreneurship with confidence. 

The skills and experiences I gained in leadership, strategic planning, client relationship management, and performance analysis have equipped me with the tools necessary to build and lead a successful business.

I am excited to leverage this experience as I embark on my entrepreneurial journey. District Sales Manager

District Sales Manager

Enhancing Brand Visibility for Houston's Oil & Gas, Energy, and Construction Sectors with Premium Branded Workwear | Achieving Measurable Results | Ex-Sysco Corporate Now Entrepreneur | OGGN BD & Podcast Host

AADE Houston

American Petroleum Institute (API) Houston Chapter

Energy Strategy | PhD | Former CSO | Follow for frameworks to think like an energy executive

KSG - Krimmel Strategy Group

Director Business Development Corporate

Vice President Filtration at Clearflow Solutions

AI just crashed the Oil and Gas party.

It's changing the industry from the inside out.

Recently, I had the opportunity to guest host at the Cognite User Forum for the OGGN Digital Doers podcast. 

My guests were two standouts from Cosmo Oil Co., Ltd. , Noriko Rzonca and kiyohide yoshii

Noriko tackled the biggest challenge right out of the gate: data quality. 

She didn't sugarcoat it. 

Cosmo Oil's journey with AI-powered operations begins and ends with data, and it hasn't been easy. 

Investing in data quality isn't glamorous.

But it's where digital transformation actually starts. 

Kiyohide got practical. 

He's been leading the shift from reactive to proactive maintenance, 

and AI is turning that vision into a necessity, not just a goal. 

Cosmo Oil is moving from waiting for breakdowns to predicting and preventing them. 

But it's not just about the tech. 

The human side? 

It's huge. 

Both Noriko and Kiyohide made it clear.

AI is rewriting job descriptions almost overnight. 

I've experienced this myself in my work, 

and it's the difference between real transformation and just running on a treadmill.

What did I take away from this conversation?

Start with your data, even if you feel miles behind. 

AI is only as good as what you feed it.

Proactive maintenance isn't just a best practice.

It's the new standard in a competitive market.

Good governance is important,

but chasing perfection will freeze progress. 

Quick wins matter.

Don't underestimate how much people will need to adapt. 

Invest in their growth as much as the technology.

If you're a leader in oil and gas or the industrial sector and planning for AI, 

these voices offer a real-world roadmap. 

The disruption isn't hype, it's here, and it's found in both the work and the people.

How about you?

Are you tackling data gaps, team buy-in, or finding that first AI project?

Or maybe you've started and learned lessons the hard way?

Link to the full episode is in the comments.

Cognite

Cosmo Oil Co., Ltd.

CDO 常務執行役員 at Cosmo Energy Holdings. Board of Director 社外取締役 at Unicharm

cosmo oil

I walked into my first Oilfield Helping Hands Lunch today not really knowing what to expect. 

I've been to a lot of industry events. 

Most of them follow the same script. 

Quick handshakes. 

Business cards traded over lukewarm coffee. 

But this one felt different before I even found a seat.

There's something about a room full of people who are there for more than just a sale or a deal. 

You can feel it. 

The air is charged with a different kind of energy. 

It's not about contracts or company swag. 

It's about people.

I realized I'd spent years in the business but somehow missed the heart beating at its center. 

The numbers, the deadlines, the deals, they matter. 

But what matters more is what happens when nobody's watching. 

When somebody is struggling. 

When someone can't pay the bills. 

Or needs a shoulder. 

Or just isn't sure they can make it through another day. 

That's when we have a choice.

It's easy to talk about "community" when things are going well. 

It's harder to live it when things get messy. 

This group does. 

Quietly, with no spotlight. 

They show up for each other, every time.

The speakers didn't just talk about profits or projections. 

They talked about impact. 

About dignity. 

About what it means to be human in a business that can feel anything but personal. 

I looked around and saw the faces of people who've weathered a storm or two. 

People who know that giving back isn't a line item. 

It's a way of life.

I left the event with more than a stack of business cards. 

I left with new perspective. 

In our drive to hit targets, gain market share, and grow brands, it's easy to forget who we're really working for. 

The faces behind the hard hats and coveralls. 

The families waiting at home. 

The friends who stand by you when the dust settles. 

That's the real story.

If you've never been to an Oilfield Helping Hands event, I hope you'll consider it. 

There's no better reminder that real success isn't measured in contracts closed or deals signed. 

It's measured in how we show up for each other, especially on the hard days.

Who in your career has shown up for you when it counted? 

Let's make sure these stories are part of our industry's legacy, not just a footnote.

Sometimes, the smallest gesture changes everything.

Thanks Nohemi McRae and @rick-cannon for the invitation!! I can't wait to get more involved.

Oilfield Helping Hands

Partnering with companies to secure the right professional talent to drive change and deliver transformational initiatives across Accounting, Audit, Finance, FP&A, Tax, Supply Chain, Technology, and more.

Charity golf tournaments do the same thing every year. ⛳

Show up. 

Swing the club. 

Maybe shake a few hands, grab a donut, write a check, feel good for a few hours, and go home. 

It's a nice gesture, but let's be honest, 𝗶𝘁'𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗹𝗲.

Redeemed Golf for Good doesn't play by those rules.

I'm not interested in events that check the box or offer a photo op. 

When you step onto the course at Golf for Good, you're not just there for your company's logo on a banner. 

𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲.

Here's what people miss: Purpose scales when leaders act with intention. 

I've watched competitors become collaborators on these greens. 

I've seen sponsors double their donations because of a single conversation by the putting green. 

𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦'𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢 𝘨𝘰𝘭𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦, 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘦𝘨𝘰 𝘰𝘧𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘱 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯.

Every single interaction matters. 

That first handshake at the registration table? 🤝

Might turn into a partnership that changes a nonprofit's trajectory. 

The business cards exchanged over lunch? 

Could be the missing piece a support organization needs to reach more survivors. 

The sponsorship dollars? 

They buy more than signage.

They pay for safe housing, trauma counseling, legal support, even basic dignity for people who had it taken from them.

Golf for Good is more than a fundraiser. 🏌️♂️🏌️♀️

It's a reminder that the best leaders don't separate business and giving back. 

They leverage every asset, every connection, every bit of influence to move the mission forward.

Over the years, I've seen relationships formed on the fairway turn into action off the course. 

New initiatives, new revenue streams, new allies in the fight. 

This isn't about who takes home the trophy. Or last place like I did last year 😆

It's about which teams show up ready to do real work.

If you're an executive, a business owner, or even just someone in Houston who wants to see our community do better, this is your invitation. 

Not to play golf, but to step up and use what you've built to make a dent.

Charity isn't a side project. 

It's a use of power. 

That's what Golf for Good gets right.

I've witnessed firsthand the change that comes from leaders who don't just open their wallets, they open their networks, their time, and their minds. 

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵'𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘩 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘮𝘴.

Thanks to everyone who shows up not for the cameras, but for a cause.

Will you join us?

redM Join The Movement @davidred Tim Sensenig Leticia Neves, MS India Starnes, MBA

No alternative text description for this image

I’m happy to share that I’ve been involved as a Volunteer with redM Join The Movement. It's a great organization - please comment below or message me if you would like to learn more or get involved.

linkedin.com

redM Join The Movement | LinkedIn

redM Join The Movement

If you're a founder still ignoring personal branding, you're leaving money on the table. 💰

No sugarcoating.

Content is not a side hustle. 

𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁.

Here are the straight facts:

Most business owners talk about "word of mouth" like it's magic. 

But in 2026, your digital voice is louder than any handshake. 🎙️

If you aren't showing up, you're invisible. 

𝙋𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙙.

Here's reality:

𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯.

I've recruited top talent, no headhunter required. 

People come to me because they know my values before we ever talk.

I've tested new offers before launch, my audience tells me in real time if it's a winner or a dud. ☑️

I've been invited on podcasts and panels, just because my name kept coming up online.

𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝙸 𝚝𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚒𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚜 𝚌𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚌𝚊𝚕 𝚊𝚜 𝚙𝚊𝚢𝚛𝚘𝚕𝚕.

Personal branding is the difference between waiting for business and creating it.

Here's what most founders get wrong:

They post once a quarter and expect results.
They hide behind their company logo.
They wait for "the right time."

There is no perfect time. 

Your competitors are already telling their stories, building trust, locking in market share that should be yours.

Here are my recommendations:

Audit your feed. 

𝘞𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘠𝘖𝘜 𝘣𝘶𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 
𝘞𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 
𝘞𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶?
𝘐𝘧 𝘯𝘰𝘵, 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘷𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰.

Start with these three moves:

1. Share what you know. Don't gatekeep. Industry tips, lessons learned, wins and mistakes, 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆.
2. Show your face and your voice. Your story is your leverage. 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁.
3. Engage,don't just broadcast. Respond, comment, ask questions. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀.

None of this costs you a dime. But ignoring it WILL cost you opportunities.

Still skeptical? 

Keep doing what you've always done. 

See where it gets you. 

But if you want to actually grow in 2026, use your personal brand like the growth engine it is.

What's stopping you?

Our super supportive network: Douglas Burns Venessa Homewood Regina M. Sydney Duran Christy Nguyen

Enhancing Your Brand’s Visual Storytelling with Stunning Corporate Headshots | Award-Winning Houston Corporate Photographer | 20+ Years that Elevates Brand Identity for 800+ Professionals including CNN, Fox News, ESPN

Empowering Houston SMBs and Startups with Custom Promotional Products that Drive Engagement & Growth | Former Marketing Communications Director Turned Mompreneur | Dedicated to Community Impact |

I build complete LinkedIn brands for high performers | Done-for-you in 14 days | Send ‘14’ if you want your Linkedin built fast |

Member Experience and Operations Manager at The Cannon

We are your accounting department | CEO | 3X Founder | Host of the Clean Slate Podcast

𝗛𝗲'𝘀 𝟰𝟱 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆.

We've been together for what feels like at least three lifetimes. 

If marriage had frequent flyer miles, we'd have enough for a trip to space.

𝘍𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘴 20 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘥, 25 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 

If you need advice on "how to survive close-quarters cohabitation," 

I'm probably overqualified.

Some actual, factual time-tested marriage lessons, 

learned the hard (𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨) way:

1. You will never finish picking up socks, shoes and hats. 

𝗛𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗮𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺. 

He will never find the laundry basket. 

Give up. 

Accept these items are now part of the home's natural ecosystem or pick them up myself. (the path of least resistance by the way)

2. Your spouse will develop entire communication languages made up of sighs, eyebrow raises, and muttered phrases. 

𝘋𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘥𝘦, 𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦 2.

And I will never stop mumbling, BTW.

3. Saying "I'm fine" never means "I'm fine." 

Just skip to apology 𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺, whichever applies.

4. You will have arguments over the dumbest things imaginable. 

Did you really just debate the correct way to load a dishwasher? 

Yes. 

Yes, you did. 

𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵.

5. There is no such thing as "just one more episode." 

It's 1am, you both have work in the morning, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀'𝘀 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻. 

We will finish it this week! HA!

6. Your partner's quirks will either drive you crazy or make you laugh. 

Sometimes both, simultaneously.

Let me be clear, he feels the same way about me. 

𝘼𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 25 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙄 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙪𝙩. 

Some days are smooth, others are loud. 

But there's laughter, there's stubbornness, 

𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦'𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘰𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸.

If marriage is teamwork, sometimes we're the Dream Team. 

Other days, we forget which sport we're playing. 

𝗕𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲.

What's the strangest thing you've learned from a long-term partnership? 

Here's to every couple still figuring it out.

And Happy Birthday to my ride or die Adam Powell!!!

📸Our casino night themed wedding shower!

Project Manager

Everyone claims AI will change everything.

Most of the industry talk is just that, talk. 

Slide decks. 

Buzzwords. 

Abstract ideas that never make it from the boardroom to the rig floor.

That's why today felt different.

I sat in on Timbergrove session about Real Time Monitoring and AI for Offshore Safety Operations. 

I didn't walk in expecting anything groundbreaking. 

I've heard it all before.

But about ten minutes in, that changed.

Instead of theory, we got a conversation stacked with real data and actual use cases. 

They described live feeds from an offshore site. 

Not archived screenshots. 

Not canned footage. 

AI wasn't a magic black box. 

It was a tool, tracking gas levels, machinery status, and worker locations, second by second. 

Alerts popped up within seconds of simulated incidents, no delays, no missed signals. 

Not a consultant's dream, but something built to handle the chaos of a real site.

They answered every tough question without dodging. 

What happens when the network goes down? 

How do you handle false alarms? 

What does this look like on a muddy, noisy, hazardous rig, not some pristine demo room?

They had answers. 

Not perfect, but honest and grounded.

And here's where it really landed: I walked out with a plan. 

Not a theory or another buzzword, an honest-to-goodness action item for my team.

Our clients are mapping out how to pilot real-time monitoring on two of our job sites.

We're going to see what breaks, what works, and what needs tweaking.

It's not about chasing AI for the sake of being trendy. 

It's about making people safer, faster, better.

This is where the conversation finally gets interesting for me. 

Less about questions like "Will AI take my job?" and more about "How can I use these tools to get everyone home safe and on time?"

There's no shortage of opinions or predictions out there. 

But fewer companies are putting real-world, dirt-under-the-fingernails solutions on the table.

Today showed me what that looks like.

Here's my take: If you're bored of the AI hype, stop listening to the noise.

Find the people actually solving problems on the ground.

They're not always the loudest. 

But they're the ones bringing the future a little closer, one real-world use case at a time.

That's the side of AI I'm betting on.

Thanks Ian Uriarte for an engaging discussion. Looking forward to the next event!

Timbergrove

Founder & CEO @ Spindletop AI | Building the future of autonomous oilfields with AI-driven well optimization.

Most networking events are a waste of makeup for women executives. 💄

You show up. 

You get a name tag. 

You circle the room making forced small talk with people who barely listen. 

You leave with a pile of business cards and no real connections.

That's not good enough.

Women executives deserve real allies and real community. 

We need warm, strategic relationships that actually matter. 

We need a space where the conversation is honest, the energy is high, and every introduction counts.

That's why we're doing this differently.

Tee Up! Presented by Oil and Gas Global Network A Stronger Tomorrow Wellness LLC

Monday, February 23, 2026. The Woodlands Country Club.

This event is exclusively for women in the C-suite, founders, VPs, and senior leaders who want to connect with other high-impact women in business. 

Not just for the game, but for the game changers.

No random assignments. 

Every guest is hand selected. 🤝

Foursomes are curated. 

Pre-event introductions are made so you walk in knowing who matters to your business and why you're there. 

You're paired with real peers, women who know exactly what it means to lead, risk, and deliver.

You'll spend a day on the course with people who don't need your resume recited. 

People who get your pressure, your wins, your struggles. 

Conversation is encouraged. 

Honesty is welcome. 

Ambition is expected. 

After the game, we drop the formality. 

The cocktail hour is about real talk, not just business pitches. 

Share what's worked, what's failed, and what you're building next. 

Listen, learn, and tap into the unspoken lessons you won't hear at panels or on podcasts.

You're not here to collect contacts. 

You're here to find partners, confidants, maybe even lifelong friends. 

People who pick up the phone when you call because you've actually spent quality time together.

And there's purpose behind it all. 

Every dollar raised will go to redM Join The Movement , an organization bringing awareness to human trafficking. 

Our goal? 

Raise $10,000 in one day and equip more women and children with the chance for a future. 

Real women lifting up real women, with measurable impact.

You can sponsor, play, or simply show up and support. 

Bring someone who needs this. 

Show the next generation that this is how business gets done. 

No elevator pitches. 

No "networking hacks." 

No empty handshakes. 

Just driven women building a new standard for what executive community looks like.

If you're an executive woman tired of transactional events, this is the table you want to sit at. 

If you're serious about opening doors and not just being seen, this is your spot.

Ready to show up? 

Ready to bring your authentic self, and meet others doing the same?

Tag a woman leader who needs to be there. 

Register, sponsor, or just reach out if you want to know more.

Stop settling for less. 

This is your room.🏌️♀️

Dr. Christine W. Thorpe Mark LaCour

Oil and Gas Global Network

Stronger Tomorrow Wellness LLC

Golf and Wellness for Women in Leadership | Health Educator | Wellness Coach | CEO of Stronger Tomorrow | Board Chair-YWCA Northern NJ | Membership Cmte. Member-Executive Women of NJ | Communications Chair-JLOSH

Oil and Gas Expert, Professional Speaker and Podcaster

LinkedIn likes to remind us it's a "professional platform."

Translation: Please, only post things that make you sound like a management textbook with a pulse.

You know the type. "𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀-𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁."

Meanwhile, I'm over here sharing stories about my kids, my first epic fail as a rookie entrepreneur, or that time I got stuck at a conference in a branded polo two sizes too small.

Doesn't fit the executive mold? 𝘎𝘰𝘰𝘥.

Because here's what years in corporate sales, boardrooms, and Houston BBQ lines have taught me, 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙮 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬, 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩!!!

They remember the person who helped them fix a last-minute apparel order, not the one who attached a PDF of "corporate solutions." 

They remember the handshake, the joke, the small talk about Astros baseball, the human moments.

I've lost count of how many deals started with someone saying, "𝘚𝘢𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵. 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦!" Or, "𝘏𝘦𝘺, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘓𝘦𝘵'𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴."

Not once has a deal started with, "𝙒𝙤𝙬, 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙢 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙜𝙢 𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙛𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨."

I get it. 

LinkedIn wants us to be polished. 

But honestly, the most memorable people aren't the ones quoting leadership gurus or posting humblebrags with inspirational stock photos.

They're the ones who show up as themselves. 

Messy, genuine, sometimes funny, 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭.

So when you see me sharing about spilled coffee in the showroom or why our branded jackets double as toddler-proof shields, understand: that's not me straying from "professionalism." 

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗦 𝗺𝘆 𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱.

Want to stand out in Oil & Gas, Energy, or Construction? 

Want people to remember your business when it's time for custom workwear or swag? 

Give them a person to connect with, not just a logo.

𝘞𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩.

If you're tired of reading posts that sound like they were written by a bot stuck in 2009, you're not alone. 

There's room for more humor, honesty, and humanity here.

Let's make LinkedIn less about buzzwords, and more about people we actually want to do business with. 

If you think this is just a glorified business card exchange... let's agree to disagree and 𝙢𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙣𝙞𝙘.

Here's to the real ones. 

The people behind the profiles. 

The reason business gets done.

I once tried to win over a Houston construction company with a creative approach.

We'd been reaching out for weeks, 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲. 

Calls, emails, you name it, nothing stuck.

So, I decided to send a box of custom-branded cupcakes to their office. 🧁

Each cupcake had their logo on it, along with our company colors. 

I figured, at least it would stand out from another email.

But Houston's summer had other plans. 🔥

By the time the cupcakes arrived, the icing had half-melted. 

𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙥, 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙤𝙨, 𝙞𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜. 

I debated whether to follow up at all, convinced I'd just embarrassed our team.

But then the office manager called me directly.

She laughed and said, "We had a good laugh in the break room. It was a nice surprise, even if the cupcakes turned out...unique."

𝘈 𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘬 𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 

No hard sell needed, the ice (or icing) was already broken. 🧊

Being memorable doesn't always mean being perfect. 

Sometimes, the things that go a little sideways actually get you noticed.

𝗠𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽. 

What cuts through isn't the slickest presentation. 

It's the human moments, the attempts to do something genuine, 

𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘶𝘱.

And in the Houston business scene, people remember effort and authenticity more than anything. 

We still joke about those cupcakes years later. 😅

Since then, I've taken the same approach with branded workwear and promo products. 

Custom, thoughtful, a little bold, and sure, sometimes a little risky.

The story sticks. 

The gesture stands out. 

And the next conversation isn't so stiff.

𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁. 

Real beats perfect every time.

Lean into humor if things go wrong. 

People appreciate authenticity.

Creativity shows you care enough to try something different, 

and that gets remembered.

If you want to make an impression, on clients, prospects, even your own team, don't be afraid to show some personality. ✨

𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙖 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮.

Do you have a story where things didn't go as planned, but it somehow worked out for the better?

📹 Life is all about balance. Me winning at the AAPL - American Association of Professional Landmen Women in Energy Conference. We were enjoying playing and learning about Poker Power

AAPL - American Association of Professional Landmen

Poker Power

People in sales fool themselves.

They move fast. 

They blast out messages. 

They flood LinkedIn. 

They act like it's a numbers game.

Spray and pray. 

Hope something lands. 

If you hustle enough, someone will bite, right?

Wrong.

I learned early there are two types of salespeople.

First, the shotgun crowd. 

They try to hit everything at once. 

Cold emails by the dozen. 

Calls all day. 

Generic pitches with zero personality. 

Their activity numbers look good. 

But deals? 

They vanish as fast as they came.

The shotgun feels safe. 

It hides you from rejection. 

It lets you blame the process instead of yourself. 

But it never builds real relationships.

Then there's the rifle approach. 

This is rare.

You pick your target. 

You slow down. 

You focus.

I had a mentor who was the best I've ever seen. 

He'd walk into a meeting and barely say a word at first. 

Instead, he listened. 

He asked real questions, the kind that make people stop and really think. 

Not "What's your budget?" or "When do you need this?" 

He'd ask, "What keeps you up at night?" 

Or "What's the biggest risk if this fails?" 

He wanted to understand their world as well as they did. 

He ignored the shiny opportunities. 

He chased the ones that actually mattered.

Here's what happened. 

He built solutions around real needs. 

The clients stuck with him. 

They didn't want just a vendor. 

They wanted him in the room when things got tough.

He never chased quick wins. 

He aimed for real partnership.

That changed how I work.

Anyone can sell once. 

That's easy. 

The real test is this: When the stakes are high and trust is on the line, do they call you first? 

Or do they scroll past your number?

Most pick the shotgun. 

It's busy. 

It's loud. 

But busy doesn't build loyalty.

The rifle is quieter. 

Requires patience. 

But when you finally pull the trigger, it hits. 

And more often than not, you're the only one clients want to hear from.

I get why the shotgun feels tempting. 

We all have quotas. 

We all want activity. 

But nobody remembers you for the hundredth email you sent them with "Just checking in" as the subject line.

They remember the person who got it right the first time. 

Or the one who showed up when nobody else did.

You can keep playing the volume game. 

But if you want to stand out, slow down. 

Pick your spot. 

Listen harder. 

Get curious.

Stop pitching. 

Start solving.

Stop chasing. 

Start building.

Next time you think about firing off another round of generic messages, ask yourself: 

Do you want a client, or do you want trust? 

Do you want a transaction, or do you want to be the first call when it really matters?

I know my answer.

Which one are you?

#livideo

📹Filming Oil and Gas Global Network Special Feature Ox Ranch in Uvalde, Texas. Check out the full episode link in the comments.

Ox Ranch

Most sales demos fall flat for one reason.

They're about the product, not the person.

I've seen it too often. 

The salesperson rushes through slides. 

They show every feature. 

The prospect tunes out. 

Then comes the dreaded "Let me think about it."

I used to make the same mistake. 

I thought more was better. 

More features. 

More data. 

More talking. 

But more isn't better. 

It's just... more.

So, I changed everything about how I run demos. 

Here's what actually moves the needle:

Pause more than you think you should. 

Silence feels awkward at first. 

But in those quiet moments, people open up. 

They share their real concerns.

Listen for debate. 

If your prospects start talking to each other, stop talking. 

Let them work it out. 

This is where the gold is. 

They're telling you what matters most.

Before you end the call, recommend the next action. 

Put it on the calendar. If you don't, momentum dies. 

Deals fade away.

Leave out the features that don't help. 

More info doesn't persuade. 

It overwhelms. 

Stick to what solves their pain.

Read the room. 

Know when to stop selling. 

Too much talk kills trust. 

Sometimes, less is more.

Repeat what they told you. 

Say: "Earlier, you mentioned..." 

This shows you're listening. 

People want to feel heard.

Talk in their words, not yours. 

Drop the jargon. 

Speak plain and clear. 

The simpler, the better.

Share a quick story of a similar customer. 

Show how they got results. 

People picture themselves in the win.

Ask for feedback during the demo. 

Not at the end. 

"Is this on track?" or "Am I hitting on what matters to you?" 

Adjust in real time.

If you get off track, admit it. 

Say, "Let me get back to what matters." 

Honesty builds trust. 

Prospects can tell when you're authentic.

After the demo, follow up with a recap. 

Summarize their goals and the steps you discussed. 

This keeps everyone aligned.

Invite questions. 

The uncomfortable ones are the best. 

That's where objections hide. 

Handle them with confidence, not fear.

If you don't know the answer, say so. 

Promise to follow up. 

Then deliver. 

Reliability beats a perfect pitch.

Sales demos aren't about being perfect. 

They're about being real. 

Show you care more about their problem than your product.

I've closed more deals doing less talking and more listening. 

I've built better relationships by making the customer the hero.

Want stronger demos? 

Flip the script. 

Stop selling features. 

Start selling outcomes.

What demo mistake do you see most? 

What tactic actually works in your world? 

Let's swap stories below.

What's it really like to watch a whole industry transform, one algorithm at a time?

I sat down with Jacob Vizinat at the Cognite User Forum for the Oil and Gas Global Network

If you haven't met Jacob, he's the founder of Iron Stag Advisory.

And someone who knows digital transformation in oil and gas from the inside out.

Jacob's career has taken him from hands-on roles in tech to high-level advising. 

That blend makes his perspective a rare find.

So, what did we talk about?

First, the elephant in every oil and gas boardroom: AI.

Jacob broke down exactly what's changing. 

AI isn't some shiny tool on a shelf anymore. 

It's showing up on rigs and in control rooms. 

Operations teams aren't just experimenting. 

They're seeing measurable impacts. 

Downtime is dropping. 

Predictive maintenance is gaining ground. 

There are fewer "Hail Mary" guesses and more data-driven decisions.

I asked Jacob a simple question:

"What's the most surprising human reaction you've seen to AI?"

He didn't hesitate. 

Some folks fear the unknown. 

Others are skeptical. 

Many, though, are starting to trust the data when they see it deliver results. 

It's a shift, but it's happening.

And that shift doesn't come easy. 

It takes more than good tech.

Jacob hammered home one foundational truth: 

None of it works without quality data. 

You can have the flashiest AI tools, but if your data is a mess, your results will be, too. 

Data integrity isn't the "fun" part of digital transformation. 

It's the heavy lifting that makes success possible. 

He compared it to building on solid ground versus quicksand.

Then, we looked forward. 

What's next for AI in oil and gas? 

Jacob thinks physics-informed neural networks are a big piece of the puzzle.

Sounds complex, but here's the gist: 

These networks combine the precision of data with deep knowledge of the real-world systems they manage. 

It's not just about crunching numbers. 

It's about understanding the forces at play underground, on the rig, across the supply chain.

Why does this matter, right now, in 2024?

Because the rules are changing fast. 

Competitive advantage is shifting. 

Real-time insight, delivered by AI, puts new players on the map and keeps legacy operators nimble. 

As we wrapped up, I could see how much opportunity and challenge sits in that gap between technology hype and operational reality. 

Some leaders are straddling it well. 

Some aren't. 

It comes down to this:

The winners in oil and gas tech aren't the ones loudest about AI. 

They're the ones quietly building the right foundation. 

Step by step. 

Data set by data set.

One conversation with Jacob, and it's clear: 

Success is less about flashy innovation, more about disciplined execution.

Because in this industry, it's not the talkers who win. It's the doers.

Link in the comments for the full episode.

Founder & Principal | Iron Stag Advisory | Energy Sector Technology

#redmonday

Let's clear up a dangerous myth about human trafficking.

Most people think trafficking victims are always moved across borders. 

They picture secret vans, fake passports, and long-distance travel. 

Movies and TV shows get this wrong, too.

But here's the truth.

Human trafficking does not require moving anyone anywhere. 

You don't have to cross a border or even leave your own town. 

Exploiters can commit this crime without anyone ever leaving home.

Victims can be trafficked in their own neighborhoods. 

In their schools, workplaces, or even at home. 

Sometimes, it's someone they know. 

A family member. 

A neighbor. 

A friend. 

Or even a romantic partner.

The heart of this crime is exploitation, not transportation.

Traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to control victims. 

They make people do things against their will. 

Victims may be forced to work without pay. 

Or pressured into commercial acts. 

They may have their documents taken. 

Or be threatened with violence to keep them silent.

And all of this can happen right next door. 

It's not just a big city problem. 

It's not just an "overseas" problem. 

It's happening in small towns, suburbs, and cities in the U.S.

You might ask, 

Why is this myth so dangerous?

Because it blinds us to reality. 

If we only look for trafficking victims who have crossed borders, 

We miss the warning signs happening in our own communities. 

We tune out when friends need help. 

We overlook cries for support because we're looking for some "movie version" of this crime.

Awareness starts with knowing the facts.

Human trafficking is about exploitation, not movement.

Anyone can be a victim.

Anyone can be an exploiter.

It happens everywhere, in every state, in every neighborhood.

What can you do?

First, drop the old myths. 

Second, learn the signs of exploitation. 

Isolation. 

Sudden behavior changes. 

Unexplained absences. 

Signs of fear or control from someone else.

And speak up if something doesn't feel right. 

You don't need all the answers to help someone. 

You just need to care enough to act.

Share this message. 

The more people know the facts, the closer we get to ending human trafficking, everywhere. 

Not just at the borders.

redM Join The Movement

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿?

Every January, we hear about transformation. 

New routines. Big goals. Fresh starts. 

But once the momentum of the holiday's fades, reality usually feels a lot more... familiar.

If I'm being honest, my transition back into work mode isn't packed with magic or dramatic resolutions. 

𝘐𝘵'𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘺.

For example, my loyal "footwarmer." 

No matter how ambitious my task list becomes, my dog takes up her usual spot under my desk. 

There's nothing quite like the quiet confidence of a four-legged coworker claiming your feet as a pillow, reminding you that not everything has to change just because the year has.

Coffee helps too. ☕

So does a quick walk in the cool Houston air, even if it's just to stretch my legs and reset my head between back-to-back calls. 

These tiny habits aren't glamorous, but they keep me grounded and ready for whatever the week throws my way.

If you're in the Oil & Gas, Energy or Construction world, you know routines matter. 

Whether it's starting the day with a safety huddle or slipping into branded workwear that signals "game on," those rituals make all the difference. 

I've learned that consistency, at home and at work, is what really fuels progress, 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆.

Here's my take, don't underestimate the power of your favorite mug, a loyal dog at your feet, or that first phone call to a client you genuinely enjoy working with. 🐕

If you've found comfort (and productivity) in small routines or furry coworkers, I'd love to hear about it. 

𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳?

Is it all fresh starts, or are you leaning on those tried-and-true rituals that get you through?

Drop your favorite New Year "secret weapon" below. 

I guarantee someone else will relate, and maybe even steal your idea for their own routine.

It's easy to think that helping your team means doing things for them.

Jumping in. 

𝙎𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢𝙨. 

Moving fast.

Feels productive?

𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻'𝘁.

Every time you handle it for them, they learn to wait for you. 

Even when they could figure it out. 

Even when they had ideas of their own.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗿?

I've lived it. 

Especially in corporate sales. 

The pressure to deliver is real. 

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜.

But if you want a team that grows, you have to step back.

Let them wrestle with challenges. 

Let them try, fail, and try again.

𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲. 

Takes patience. 

𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵.

But in the long run? 

That's where real efficiency starts.

I started swapping answers for questions.

What do you think we should do? 

𝚆𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚕𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚢? 

Where are you getting stuck? 

What support do you need from me?

Simple questions. 

Big impact.

Suddenly, my team wasn't waiting for directions. 

They started moving on their own. 

They owned their decisions.

Guess what happened next?

Momentum picked up. 

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗱. 

People felt proud of their wins.

And I had time to focus on bigger problems.

Too many leaders chase speed by grabbing the steering wheel. 

But growth happens when you let go, just enough for your team to find their own way.

Try it this week.

Next time someone comes to you with a problem, pause. 

Ask a question instead of giving a solution.

𝙎𝙚𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨.

If you want a high-performing team, coach them. 

Don't carry them.

That's how you build trust, ownership, and real results.

𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘶𝘱? 

Drop your best coaching question below. 

I'm always looking for new ideas.

📸Team Graham-Powell riding snow machines in the majestic Blackcomb Mountains in Whistler, British Columbia.

Most people introduce themselves on LinkedIn with a list of titles, certifications, and a humble brag about "𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘳𝘶𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯."

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗺𝗲.

I'm co-founder of Houston Apparel Co. , which means I basically live on the front lines where fabric, sweat, and last-minute client requests collide. 

🦟I'm a mom of two kids who are more active than a Houston mosquito in July. 

One's a future NBA baller (if you ask him), the other runs around the house blasting her competitive cheer music at awkwardly loud volumes doing her cheer routine 24/7. IYKYK.

𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴.

My house is part sports arena, with a lovesick Labrador following everyone around and taking up space right where you want to be.

Typical day? 

By 7:30am, I've already solved a wardrobe emergency ("Mom! Where's my jersey?"), played short order cook, and fielded three "urgent" emails about pantone colors for a client's safety vests. 

All before my third cup.

While other parents zone out at football practice, 𝗜'𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺. (If you've ever tried to get sweaty eight-year-olds into stiff polyester, you know why this matters.)

🅿️Balancing work, kids, and Houston traffic means I've mastered the art of conference calls from parking lots.

I consider rush hour an opportunity for podcast research (or, let's be honest, 𝒶 𝒻ℯ𝓌 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝓊𝓉ℯ𝓈 ℴ𝒻 𝓈𝒾𝓁ℯ𝓃𝒸ℯ).

Work-life balance? 

Nope.

It's more like work-life wrestling, and some days I tap out. 

But the overlap between being a business owner and a parent is hilarious. 

Both jobs involve cleaning up messes you didn't make, celebrating tiny wins, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁.

When I'm not dodging flying basketballs or fighting with the printer (again), 

I'm working with clients in Oil & Gas, Energy and Construction who need branded workwear that doesn't make their teams look like extras from a 90s action movie.

📓Whether I'm coaching a team of cheerleaders or helping Houston's biggest brands upgrade their image, the playbook is the same.

Show up. 

Suit up. 

𝙎𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙜𝙤 𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨.

I've learned that the best gear isn't just about logos or colors, it's about creating something people actually want to wear.

That's true on the field, at the jobsite, and yes, even at the PTO meeting I accidentally volunteered for (don't ask).

If you're looking for someone who can turn chaos into creative solutions or just want to swap funny stories about ink stains, client curveballs, or travel sports parent drama, 𝘐'𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘦.

😆Because if you can't laugh at yourself, trust me, someone else's kid will do it for you.

Houston Apparel Co.

A couple of days ago, someone I met in person for the first time said, 

"Wait, you have almost 7,000 followers on LinkedIn ?" 

I laughed. 

To be clear, seven thousand is not exactly TikTok influencer status. 

I don't have teenagers lining up for selfies at the Jordan Ranch H-E-B. 

But for a business platform? 

That's a crowd. 

A real, authentic crowd. 

I started posting awkward thoughts about branded workwear and the weird things that happen when your life goes from corporate to full-on entrepreneur. 

Lots of personal things. About my kids and family life too.

Why?

Because even though this is a professional platform, we are all humans after all.

That's it. No secret formulas.

Eighteen months ago, I opened LinkedIn, stared at that blank box, and wondered if a post about safety vests would send me straight to digital purgatory. 🦺

Some of my first posts got three likes. 

One of those was my brother-in-law. Thanks Calvin Powell !!! Fam foreva!!!

I kept showing up, even when my stuff felt about as compelling as a list of OSHA regulations. (𝗡𝗼 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆. 𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀. 𝗜 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗲 "𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲" 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗼𝗻.)

Fast forward 📽️: 

750 qualified leads. That's not a typo. Real people. Real projects. All from the services tab that most people ignore. 

Thirty-five podcast episodes. Did I know how to host a podcast? 

Absolutely not. Did I just put myself out there and run with it?

Yup. And I encourage you to do the same.

Invites to speak at conferences where people actually stayed in their seats. 

A weekly branding column for the OGGN newsletter with over 50,000 subscribers.

Two board seats, which sounds way fancier than it is. I still eat lunch at my desk. 🥪

You know what matters more than all of that? 

Last week, three different people told me they keep coming back to my posts because I don't try to sound impressive. 

They said, "You're honest, and you actually sound like a human." 

Not "super professional." Not "influencer material." 

Just... real.

Most LinkedIn feeds look like a highlight parade. 

Everyone's winning awards, closing deals, running marathons, volunteering, and solving world hunger, before breakfast. 

If that's the standard, I'm underqualified for my own posts.

Real brand building isn't about highlight reels. 

It's sharing what happens when your branded polos show up two sizes too small, or the time you realized your supplier printed your company logo upside down (again). 

It's about the pivots, the panic, and the punchlines. ☠️

This is what still gets me.....everytime. 

By the time I walk into a first meeting, half the room already knows me, funny faces, bad coffee habits, and all. 

That's the ROI.

If you want trust, try being yourself.

I want to hear your real, messy, behind-the-scenes story.

Promise I won't call your brother-in-law for a pity like.

Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation | U.S. Embassy, London

Right before a big branded order ships, there's always this split second where my heart skips. 💟

It happens every time, no matter how many years I've been in this business.

That moment of, Did we nail those brand colors? 

Is that stitching going to hold up for the long haul? 

𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲'𝘀 𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗼𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱?

Most people see branded workwear as just another item in a long list of company purchases. 

Just gear. Just apparel. 👕

But for the teams opening those boxes, it's often the first impression of a new job, a reminder of company pride, or simply proof that someone was thinking about their comfort and safety. 

𝙄𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙖 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚, 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.

I'll admit, years ago, I powered through these final checks, eyes on the clock, just trying to hit the deadline and move on to the next project. 

It was about efficiency, about numbers.

But now, I pause.

I picture the foreman pulling on a jacket that actually fits and seeing his team's logo done just right. 

𝘖𝘳 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘦, 𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘵, 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘸.

I double check the embroidery, the color match, the packaging, even when my coffee's gone cold for the third time that morning. ☕

I re-read the order details, making sure that the Houston job site requested the reflective tape, and the energy team got the moisture-wicking shirts for those brutal Texas summers.

It's not glamorous work. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲. 

Most of this effort is invisible. 

I'm not expecting a thank you note or a spotlight. 🔦

But there's this quiet pride in helping create those little moments, the first impressions, the sense of belonging, the confidence boost. 

Even if nobody knows my name, I know our work helped someone stand a little taller in their new gear.

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴.

Not just the satisfaction of a job well done, but the honor of helping someone else show up, feel seen, and maybe even feel proud to put on the company colors.

𝙎𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚'𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪:

Have you ever felt that pressure? 

That mix of nerves and excitement when you deliver something that really matters to someone else.

How do you make sure you get it right, even when no one is watching?

🔍 I’m Douglas, a native Texan, world traveler, and proud dog dad to Peanut. My journey behind the lens began with a childhood fascination, sparked by the captivating images in National Geographic Magazine. This passion blossomed in college, where I honed my skills and developed a profound appreciation for visual storytelling.

As an Award-Winning Corporate Photographer, I bring over 20 years of professional experience to every project. I've enhanced the brand identity of more than 800 professionals, helping them communicate their unique value through compelling imagery.

𝗪𝗛𝗢 𝗜’𝗩𝗘 𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗣𝗘𝗗

My work has taken me across the globe, contributing to prestigious projects with National Geographic TV, ESPN, BBC, Fox News, CNN, and notable personalities like Dr. Phil, Yao Ming and George Foreman. Each experience has enriched my understanding of people, enabling me to create photographs that capture moments and evoke emotions.

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗜 𝗗𝗢

📸 Corporate Photographer: I specialize in stunning corporate headshots that convey professionalism and authenticity. My on-site photo studio ensures consistency across your team, using custom digital and traditional backgrounds, and personalized coaching to bring out the best in each individual, resulting in a cohesive visual representation of your brand.

𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗪𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞 𝗧𝗢𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥

🌟 𝗧𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀:  We bring the studio to you, ensuring a seamless experience capturing your brand's essence. The results are immediate, with instant viewing and image selection on-site, followed by professional editing and secure online delivery.

🌟 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵𝘀: Ideal for businesses with a widespread workforce, our headshot booth ensures stunning and uniform headshots. Participants benefit from private proofing galleries and instant email delivery. The booth sponsor receives the comprehensive lead list and has the option to brand the individual private galleries for an additional touch point to the participants, with zero administrative work for you.

🌟 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: I offer private consulting workshops to help businesses refine their visual storytelling. These sessions cover headshot techniques to brand imaging strategies, providing personalized guidance to elevate your company’s visual impact.

Through my lens, I strive to capture the unique essence of individuals and brands, creating images that resonate and inspire.

📸 Ready to start your journey?

╰┈➤ Click on the link in my bio.

Douglas Burns

Most people will never see the chaos behind a live corporate broadcast.

Multiple robotic cameras. Instant switching. Redundant feeds. Tight scripts. 

No pause. No "fix it in post." If it breaks, it breaks in front of everyone.

This was an internal all-hands broadcast for a Honeywell division. 

My job? Stay invisible. Make the tech fade into the background so leaders and presenters could focus on their message, not on production.

Perfect live production isn't luck. It's experience.

Live work is different from anything else. 

You plan for failure before it happens. 

You build systems that quietly absorb chaos, so nobody in the room ever knows.

The point isn't to show off. It's about being reliable, clear, and steady.

That's what clients actually pay for: the right to stop worrying about the tech and focus on what matters.

If everything on camera looks calm, it's because a lot is happening below the surface.

Douglas N Burns

Do you know who you’re actually trying to reach?

It sounds simple.
Most companies can’t answer it with confidence.

They update their headshots.
Refresh their branding.
Launch new campaigns.

But none of it really sticks if the audience isn’t clear.

The most effective visuals aren’t just good photos.

They’re targeted messages.

They quietly signal:
• who you serve
• who you’re for
• and who you’re not trying to attract

They become silent magnets for the right clients,
and an easy filter for the wrong ones.

Before you plan your next headshot session or rebrand, ask yourself:

Who is this really for?
What do I want them to feel when they land on our site or scroll past our team photos?

If the answer is “everyone,”
it’s the same as saying “no one.”

Invest in clarity first.
Your images will do the rest.

Profile link:

https://www.productionparadise.com/spotlight/2242/corporate-industrial-and-healthcare-photography-and-motion

As the Co-Founder, I proudly hold the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) designation from The Travel Institute. 

This prestigious certification recognizes travel professionals who have completed a rigorous, exam-based training program, demonstrating extensive industry knowledge and the highest standards of professionalism.

The CTA curriculum equips travel professionals with essential skills needed to excel as frontline travel counselors. 

Topics covered include advanced selling techniques, exceptional customer service, in-depth destination knowledge, insights into niche markets, and effective communication strategies.

Key Components of the CTA Curriculum:

- Selling Skills: Techniques to identify customer needs and present compelling travel solutions.
- Customer Service: Providing outstanding service and building long-term client relationships.
- Destination Knowledge: Understanding various destinations globally, including cultural and practical travel information.
- Niche Markets: Catering to specialized markets such as adventure travel, luxury travel, and eco-tourism.
- Communication: Enhancing professional interactions with clients, suppliers, and colleagues.

The CTA designation not only acknowledges my expertise but also my commitment to continuous professional growth. It is the first step towards earning the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) designation, which signifies a higher level of achievement in the travel industry. Pursuing the CTC builds on the foundation laid by the CTA, deepening my knowledge and skills.

My goal is to help clients discover the world in meaningful and culturally enriching ways. 

The CTA designation equips me to curate exceptional travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary, immersing travelers in the rich tapestry of global cultures and creating lasting memories.

Certified Travel Associate (CTA)

As a Co-Founder, I'm deeply committed to crafting unique and enriching travel experiences. 

My passion for travel and dedication to excellence have been recognized by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), awarding me the prestigious Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC) designation.

The ACC designation is given to dedicated travel professionals who complete an extensive program, including classroom training, immersive cruise experiences, ship inspections, video/DVD training, and participation in industry events. 

Achieving this certification underscores my commitment to providing clients with the highest standard of service and expertise.

Key Achievements:

- Completed extensive CLIA training and certification
- Gained in-depth knowledge of cruise operations and itineraries
- Conducted numerous ship inspections, understanding various cruise lines
- Attended leading industry events, staying updated on travel trends and innovations
- Enhanced ability to offer personalized, informed travel recommendations
- Leveraged industry connections for the best deals and itineraries

Client Benefits:

- Tailored vacation planning from a certified cruise expert
- Assurance of meticulously planned, unforgettable cruise experiences
- Access to exclusive deals and amenities available only through accredited professionals
- Continuous support throughout the travel journey, from planning to post-vacation follow-up

My goal is to help clients discover the world in meaningful and culturally enriching ways. The ACC designation equips me with the knowledge and resources to curate exceptional cruise vacations that go beyond the ordinary. 

Each journey is designed to immerse travelers in the rich tapestry of global cultures, creating lasting memories.

I’m excited to continue leveraging my expertise to craft unforgettable travel experiences. 

Whether you're dreaming of an exotic cruise, a cultural expedition, or a serene getaway, we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC)

The Telly Awards is the premier award honoring excellence in video and television across all screens. Established in 1979, The Telly Awards receives over 13,000 entries globally, making recognition in this competition a significant achievement in the industry.

Being included as a Bronze winner is a testament to my dedication to creating outstanding visual content. The Telly Awards Judging Council, an esteemed industry body of over 250 leading experts from advertising agencies, production companies, and major television networks such as Adobe, Netflix, and Meta Creative Shop, evaluates entries based on their excellence in various categories. 

These include Branded Content, Commercials & Marketing, Immersive & Mixed Reality, Non-Broadcast, Online and Television Series, Shows & Segments, and Social Video.

Key Achievements:

- Honored alongside top-tier professionals and companies globally
- Evaluated and selected by leading industry experts

This accolade highlights my ability to deliver high-quality, impactful content that resonates with audiences across multiple platforms. 

It underscores my commitment to excellence in visual storytelling and my capability to create compelling narratives that drive engagement and deliver results.

Impact:

- Enhanced brand visibility and credibility through award-winning content
- Demonstrated expertise in producing high-quality visual narratives

Winning a Telly Award reflects my ongoing pursuit of excellence and my passion for pushing the boundaries of creativity. 

It motivates me to continue producing work that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, ensuring that each project I undertake is of the highest caliber.

My goal is to leverage this recognition to further enhance my skills and contribute to projects that make a meaningful impact. I'm committed to creating visual content that tells powerful stories and engages audiences in innovative ways.

Telly Award - Bronze Category Winner

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications, Radio Television & Film from Texas Tech University, where I was actively involved in the Wesley Foundation. 

The Wesley at Texas Tech is dedicated to raising up generations of dynamic Christians who lead by inviting real people into real ministry in the real world. 

Established in 1935, it has been a “home away from home” for Texas Tech students, impacting and equipping them for lifelong Christian service.

My involvement in the Wesley Foundation enriched my college experience, providing a supportive environment for spiritual growth and leadership development. The foundation has inspired over 200 individuals to pursue full-time ministry roles, including local pastors, campus ministers, youth ministers, worship leaders, and missionaries. 

This experience complemented my academic pursuits, fostering a holistic development that continues to influence my career and personal life.

✨ Enhancing Your Brand’s Visual Storytelling with Stunning Corporate Headshots | Award-Winning Houston Corporate Photographer | 20+ Years Elevating Brand Identity for 800+ Professionals | ˙✧˖°📸⋆｡˚

Since 2023, I have had the privilege of volunteering as a portrait photographer with BEAR Houston, an organization dedicated to supporting abused and neglected children.

BEAR is unique in its collaboration with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and Harris County Resources for Children and Adults, offering programs that go beyond basic needs to provide comfort, dignity, and the celebration of successes for children who have recently been uprooted.

As a volunteer portrait photographer, my role involves capturing the resilience and spirit of these incredible children. Through my lens, I strive to provide them with moments of joy and self-esteem, immortalizing their smiles and the light in their eyes during times of immense change and challenge. 

Each portrait session is not just about taking pictures; it's about creating an environment where the children feel valued, celebrated, and seen.

Working with BEAR has been a profoundly rewarding experience. The organization’s mission to propel children toward a successful future resonates deeply with me. 

By offering my skills in photography, I contribute to this mission by helping children feel proud and hopeful about their futures. The portraits I create are small but meaningful tokens of normalcy and pride, providing these young individuals with a sense of identity and confidence.

For more information about BEAR Houston and their incredible work, please visit BEAR Houston.

As part of a dedicated team of volunteer photographers, I had the honor of creating cherished family portraits for Army service members and their families during the holiday seasons of 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. Our mission was to capture the joy and togetherness of these moments, providing families with lasting memories despite the challenges of military life.

The USO, since its inception in 1941, has stood as the nation’s leading organization supporting U.S. military members and their families. 

From the moment they join, through every assignment and deployment, and as they transition back to civilian life, the USO is steadfastly by their side. Being part of this tradition of service and support has been incredibly rewarding.

Our holiday portrait sessions at Ft. Hood were more than just photography gigs; they were opportunities to give back to those who sacrifice so much for our country. Each session involved setting up professional photography environments, coordinating with families, and ensuring every photo captured the warmth and bond of these extraordinary families. The smiles, laughter, and sometimes tears of joy we witnessed were testaments to the impact of our work.

Through this volunteer experience, I not only improved my technical photography skills but also learned the profound importance of empathy, patience, and community engagement. These experiences have shaped my approach as a corporate photographer, where I strive to capture not just images, but stories and emotions that resonate deeply.

Being a part of the USO Ft. Hood volunteer team has taught me the true power of photography in connecting and uplifting people. It’s an experience that continually inspires me to bring the same level of dedication and compassion to all my professional projects.

For more information about the USO and their invaluable work, please visit USO.org.

As a dedicated volunteer at St. Joseph Orthodox Church, I have had the privilege of serving in multiple roles that have enriched both my personal and professional life.

Since 2012, I have been honored to have been ordained as a Reader in the Orthodox Church. 

One of my most rewarding projects was producing and directing the 15th Anniversary Video for our parish in 2008. This endeavor involved coordinating interviews, capturing significant moments, and weaving them into a compelling narrative that celebrated our community's history and spirit. The project showcased my ability to blend creativity with technical expertise, resulting in a memorable tribute that continues to resonate with our congregation.

Volunteering at St. Joseph Orthodox Church has been a cornerstone of my life, fostering a deep sense of community and purpose. It has also provided me with invaluable skills such as leadership, collaboration, and project management, which I bring to my professional endeavors as a corporate photographer. 

My time at St. Joseph's has not only taught me the importance of capturing the essence of moments and translating them into meaningful visual stories but has also deeply influenced my personal and spiritual growth. 

At the church, I strive to unite myself with God and to be transformed into His image, learning to live a Christian life and grow in His grace. 

This spiritual journey guides my work in every corporate photography project I undertake, ensuring that my work reflects both my professional dedication and my commitment to living a life of grace.

For more information about St. Joseph Orthodox Church and our community, please visit: saintjosephorthodox.org.

Most booths at conferences blend together.

Same colors.
Same banners.
Same language.

From the aisle, everything looks interchangeable.

The booths that get remembered aren’t louder.
They’re clearer.

They use visuals that instantly answer three questions:

• Who are you for?
• What problem do you solve?
• Why should I trust you?

When those answers are visible from ten feet away,
people stop walking.

That’s not design.
That’s positioning.

Your visuals are either helping the right people find you,
or quietly helping them walk past.

There’s no middle ground.

If you’re responsible for hiring a photographer, the risk isn’t the images.

The risk is everything attached to them.

Deadlines. Stakeholders. Internal expectations. Usage questions. “Did we get what we needed?” conversations that happen weeks or months later.

Most marketing, operations, and procurement teams aren’t actually buying creativity. They’re buying predictability.

• Will this run on time?
• Will the assets work across channels without rework?
• Will I be able to stand behind the decision internally?

That’s why process, scope clarity, and experience matter just as much as the final visuals. The best projects are the ones where nothing becomes a follow-up problem.

If you’re planning a shoot in 2026 and want to sanity-check scope, usage, or production approach before anything gets booked, that’s a conversation worth having early.

Those are the conversations I spend most of my time in.

Most "professional" photos aren't really professional. 

They're safe. They're clean. They're just... fine.

But "fine" doesn't signal quality.

Here's the truth: It's not about fancier cameras or secret lighting tricks.

It's about standards.

The best imagery follows rules that most businesses never even think about, like:
- How a product or person is positioned
- Where highlights pull your eye
- How edges are separated from backgrounds
- How shadows create depth instead of clutter
- How your attention travels, frame by frame

These details don't shout, but they show. Premium images always have them. Generic ones don't.

Your audience might not be able to explain why your visuals look better. But they feel it right away.

Acceptable visuals tell people what you do. 
Exceptional visuals show how much your business cares.

That difference is the signal you send. And it matters.

This is one of those stories that sounds funny after the fact.

Years ago, I was asked to grab a shot from a helicopter. Last-minute decision. 

No safety rig. No tether. No prep time. 

Just me, an open door, and a very expensive camera.

At the time, you do what you’re trained to do. 

You focus. You manage the risk in front of you. 

You get the shot and bring everything back in one piece.

Looking back, that moment taught me something that still shapes how I work today.

Experience isn’t about doing risky things.

It’s about recognizing risk early and designing systems so you don’t need heroics in the first place.

Most production failures don’t come from bad gear or lack of talent. 

They come from last-minute decisions without guardrails.

That’s why planning, constraints, and calm decision-making matter more than bravado. 

Especially when real money, real people, and real outcomes are involved.

The goal is never the dramatic story afterward.

The goal is for nothing dramatic to happen at all.

Want a quick way to boost your company's brand presence this year?

Standardize your team headshots.

Same background.
Same lighting.
Same framing.

It's the fastest way to make your website, proposals, and LinkedIn profiles look more polished and unified, without a giant overhaul.

Here's what it quietly solves:
- New hires no longer look out of place.
- Leadership photos feel like part of the same story.
- Your brand stays consistent as teams grow.

Most companies overlook these problems until their visual story gets messy.

A standardized headshot system fixes it all, fast.

This one small move can elevate your brand everywhere it appears.

Company photo days look simple from the outside.

They rarely are.

Behind the scenes, someone is usually juggling:

• schedules
• reminders
• outfit questions
• last-minute changes
• nervous team members
• and leadership expectations

All while still trying to do their actual job.

That hidden stress is real.
And most of it has nothing to do with photography.

It comes from not having a system.

The smoothest photo days aren’t smoother because the photographer is faster.

They’re smoother because the process was designed for people, not just pictures.

When that happens, the entire experience feels easier.

And that ease shows up in the final images.

If you’re responsible for coordinating company headshots and want a smoother process, comment clarity and I’ll share a short planning guide.

What if the real value of headshots isn't the photos?

It's the process.

It's how little disruption it causes.

How few internal emails get sent.

How quickly people move through, without waiting or rescheduling.

How clean the delivery is.

How rarely anyone needs to follow up.

A professional headshot day isn't about making people look good.

It's about keeping the workday running as usual, while the photos quietly get done in the background.

Less friction.
Less wasted time.
Happier teams.

That's the real ROI.

January and February are the unsung heroes of the business year.

These months are rarely chaotic.
The rush has not started.
Inboxes are not overflowing.
Teams have not hit full speed yet.

And that is exactly why they matter.

New hires are joining.
Last year’s goals are being reviewed and reset.
Leadership is thinking about how they want the company to show up for clients, partners, and their own teams.

This is the quiet window most organizations overlook.

I have seen it again and again.
Teams that update their headshots, team photos, and brand visuals early in the year gain a real advantage. Their websites feel current. Their LinkedIn profiles look cohesive. Their brand signals readiness.

They look organized before the year gets loud.

Wait too long and things get complicated. Calendars fill. Projects stack. Finding a clean window for something as simple as team photos turns into a logistical headache. What could have been easy becomes rushed.

The calm before the storm is not downtime.
It is leverage.

A polished visual presence is not about vanity.
It builds trust, credibility, and consistency long before a conversation ever starts.

The teams that invest in this window set the tone for the entire year.

This week, I got a sharp reminder.

You never regret making time for the people who matter.

Last weekend, I sat with a friend who knew his time was short. I'm grateful I was there. He was the real deal. Loved life, loved God, loved his family.

Work? It'll be there tomorrow. Messages will pile up. Calendars will shift. None of that matters when someone needs you, right now.

What stays with you? The mornings you didn't postpone. The time you showed up. The moments you chose to be present.

I'm lucky I can build my work around life, not the other way around. Because no job should ever crowd out real life.

That's the perspective I needed this week.

Don't wait to show up for the people you care about.

Last week, I was running the live press-pool feed for the national media on behalf of Fox News.

This wasn't breaking news.
It was a planned cabinet-level press junket out in the middle of nowhere.

So the job was all logistics.

Government schedules.
Handlers moving the press pool from one spot to another.
Tight windows.
Constant repositioning.

And one thing was non-negotiable:

The signal back to New York had to be clean.
Images had to be spot-on.
Audio, rock solid.

All while staying mobile with a traveling pool of about 30 national press members, never missing a beat.

That's the part most people never see.

This work isn't about showing up with a camera.
It's about building systems that hold under pressure.

Most people think commercial photography is about making things look good.

They're wrong.

It's about making images that actually do something. 

That work for you after the event is long over.

Event coverage is about what happened.

Commercial photography is about what needs to happen next.

See the difference?

Different mindset. Different playbook.

You can't just show up and react. Every shot has a job. 

You need to know where an image will live, how long it needs to last, who it needs to convince, and what message it needs to carry when you're not around to explain it.

That changes everything:

- The way you design lighting.
- How you direct people.
- How you control every detail on set.

The camera itself? Least interesting piece of gear in the room.

The work that matters is the thinking before you ever pick it up.

That's what separates documentation from production. 

That's why the images that drive brands aren't made by accident.

If you treat them the same, you'll get results that look the same.

Lighting is where the story actually gets told.

Not the camera.
Not the lens.
Not the brand name on the gear.

In corporate environments especially, everything already looks “fine” by default. 

Offices are lit. Conference rooms are lit. Facilities are lit.

 None of that means the image is communicating anything.

Light is what controls:
• where attention goes
• what feels important
• what feels credible
• what feels human

Designing the lighting is about intent. 

It’s about deciding what the viewer should feel first, second, and last. 

Even small changes in direction, softness, or contrast can shift an image from flat documentation to something that actually carries meaning.

This matters just as much in corporate work as it does in advertising. Maybe more.

Because when the environment is neutral, light becomes the language.

Good lighting doesn’t announce itself.

It quietly supports the message and gets out of the way.

That’s the goal.

The best production work disappears.

No raised voices.

No fire drills.

No one scrambling to rescue the day.

That's not luck. That's the result of process, not personality.

People think the value is in those dramatic saves, the split-second creativity under pressure. 

But real professionals know better. 

Most of the work happens before anyone shows up.

Clear roles. Dead simple timelines. 

Contingencies baked in long before opening night.

The reward? Calm. 

If the room feels steady, the prep paid off. 

If the message hits clean, execution did its job.

Quiet shows aren't boring. They're proof of discipline.

Nobody remembers the chaos you avoided , but clients remember how easy you made it feel.

Most people decide whether they trust your company before anyone from your team ever says a word.

It happens quietly.

They scroll your website.
They check out your team on LinkedIn.
They scan your "About" page.

What are they really asking themselves?

Does this team look credible?
Do they look established?
Would I want to work with them?

Your visuals answer those questions instantly, long before anyone reads your story or your pitch.

That's why headshots and brand photos aren't just a nice-to-have. They're not just about looking good.

They're part of your sales process, whether you think about them that way or not.

Every image you share is an invitation. Make sure your first impression is doing the heavy lifting for you.

Most team headshot days don’t fail because of lighting.

They fail because of process.

People don’t know where to go.
Calendars stack on top of each other.
Time blocks drift.
Someone misses their slot.
Another person shows up late.
IT gets pulled in.
Comms starts chasing files.

What was supposed to be “quick and easy” quietly turns into a half-day disruption.

That’s not a photography problem.
That’s a workflow problem.

If you’re responsible for organizing team photos, I put together a short planning guide that walks through how to run these cleanly with minimal disruption.

Happy to share it.

The goal of a team headshot day is not photos.

It is credibility.

It is consistency across every place your company shows up.

It is the quiet signal that your team is organized, current, and trustworthy before anyone ever speaks to you.

Websites.
LinkedIn profiles.
Proposals.
Press pages.
Email signatures.

These details compound.

They influence how people perceive your brand long before they interact with it.

A clean, current visual presence does not just make you look good.

It makes everything you do feel more legitimate.

And legitimacy is what actually moves business forward.

Sometimes the open road is part of the job.

Long, quiet drives either on the way to an assignment or on the way home.
Open skies.

Miles of empty highway.

This is the space where a lot of the real work actually happens.

You replay conversations.

You think through what went right and what you would tighten up next time.

You mentally rebuild systems, processes, and workflows so the next job runs cleaner than the last.

Most people only see the finished photos or the polished deliverables.

They don’t see the hours between locations, the miles, the resets, or the thinking time that makes everything sharper.

For me, those drives are where clarity shows up.

And clarity is what makes the work better long before the camera ever comes out again.

People trust stable brands before they trust impressive ones.

It starts with consistency.
Predictability.
Purpose.

That feeling of steadiness builds trust, even before someone reads your copy or meets your team.

And trust is almost always visual first.

When your brand's visuals follow a system, your company feels established.

If they don't, your brand feels accidental, no matter how good your work really is.

Headshots aren't the whole brand, but they're a quick signal of whether you're intentional or just winging it.

People pick up on that, even if they can't put it into words.

taplio

The Battle

Jada Powell

Douglas Burns

Followers

Posts

Engagements

Likes

Performance ScoreJada Powell's LinkedIn Performance

Performance ScoreDouglas Burns's LinkedIn Performance

Ready to grow your LinkedIn presence?

taplio

The Battle

Jada Powell

Douglas Burns

Followers

Posts

Engagements

Likes

Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Jada Powell's LinkedIn Performance

Performance ScoreDouglas Burns's LinkedIn Performance

Ready to grow your LinkedIn presence?

Performance ScoreJada Powell's LinkedIn Performance