Berries from the garden, a birthday with my mother and my grandson, a play I went to see him in, and the first time I have ever seen a sitting president speak in person.

Garden muffins

My wife made muffins from scratch with the berries from my garden. They are black raspberries, not blueberries, picked from the same patch I have been working all summer.

Here is her recipe.

Ingredients 2 extra large eggs (large eggs will work too) 1/2 cup vegetable oil 3/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 2 cups all purpose flour 1 1/2 cups black raspberries Streusel topping (optional) 1/4 cup all purpose flour 2 Tbsp granulated sugar 1 Tbsp unsalted butter sparkling sugar for the top Instructions Preheat oven to 375°F and butter a muffin tin, or line with muffin tin liners. If you are using the streusel topping, make it first. Combine the ingredients with your fingertips until it is crumbly and the butter is completely incorporated. The mixture will be dry. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, sugar, buttermilk, and extract. Get everything well combined. Whisk in the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then fold in the flour. When the flour is almost all incorporated, fold in the berries. Fill your muffin cups quite full, and then sprinkle lightly with streusel mixture. Add sparkling sugar on top of the streusel. Bake in a preheated oven for about 25-27 minutes, or until risen and just turning golden. Different ovens vary greatly, so check these on the early side. Cool slightly before turning the muffins out of the pan. Devour warm, with plenty of butter.

Mom's birthday and Grandson’s play

We took my mother out for her birthday, and my grandson came along.

I have a picture from that afternoon I will share below.

I also went to my grandson's play. There is also a family photo from the day that I am glad we took.

Family time like this has been a throughline for me lately.

The president

The other thing worth mentioning is that I saw the president speak.

I have never seen a sitting president. And frankly, he stood the whole time so I guess that is still true. It was pretty cool. When I was in college I saw Former President Ford give a speech. That was less memorable. Hearing POTUS talk about the economy reminded me of what San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly said about labor markets and AI at the Forum Club earlier this year. The Forum Club’s 50th anniversary season has been incredible. I’m glad I joined!

Conclusion

Check back soon for more updates on the garden, the family, and whatever the summer brings next.

Or read more of my articles on my blog.

I never listen to one show straight through. I play program director and assemble an eclectic list of various shows. I will jump from an episode of Founders to a story about the Persian Empire to a song-by-song breakdown of a 1995 hit. History is the biggest category for me, with some business and current events mixed in.

Here are eight of the shows in heavy rotation right now.

Founders by David Senra

A podcast I keep coming back to is Founders by David Senra. He deep dives into biographies of interesting founders and other people from history and business.

There is a story David Senra tells about John D. Rockefeller from the book Titan that has stuck with me. Rockefeller's company sealed cans of oil with solder, roughly thirty drops to glue the lid down. He asked the obvious question nobody else asked. Why thirty? Why not twenty-nine? They tested twenty-nine drops. The cans held. They tested twenty-eight. Still fine. They tried twenty-seven and the cans started to leak. So they settled on twenty-eight. Two drops of solder, multiplied across the millions of cans of oil they were selling, was a huge savings of money.

My First Million

If you're into business podcasts, My First Million is the first one I would recommend. It is a good entry point if you want business ideas thrown at you quickly.

My two favorite episodes are both about the same company. First, Buying A $50M Egg Carton Biz For $0 Down, where Shaan breaks down an amazing company and founder. Then How I Bought A Multi-Million Dollar Egg Carton Business For $0, where he interviews her directly.

These two highlight the two sides of the show. One side is conversations with founders about their process and philosophies. The other side is a fly on the wall as two friends talk about amazing things they've found or researched.

Sarah Moore was a student at Harvard when she researched and purchased a company that many would consider boring. Manufacturing and selling egg cartons. She did it with creative financing and almost no money down. This business is a cash cow and it was hiding in plain sight.

The Game by Alex Hormozi

The other business podcast I listen to is The Game by Alex Hormozi. His podcast gets into a lot of actionable advice and frameworks to apply to business.

When I first started my business, a friend recommended the $100M Offers book as a way to think about how to build the company. I read that, and that is what led me to the podcast.

The podcast is amazing. Tons of intelligent approaches and mindsets. And he has audiobook chapters for his three books available for free in the feed. The show has evolved a lot over the years. Lately there have been Q&A sessions with business owners. Extremely insightful.

I wrote a bit about Hormozi's world in Scaling in Vegas, after attending one of the Acquisition.com workshops.

60 Songs That Explain the 90s

This podcast is hosted by a guy named Rob Harvilla who is really funny. When he talks about being a teenager in the nineties, it lights up a bunch of nostalgia stuff for me, which is why I highly recommend this show.

Each episode goes deep into the influences behind a particular song. He will start ten or twenty years before the song came out and build up through the earlier music that led to it. Because it is the nineties, there is often talk about the music video. He also goes into the band and where their career went. The end of each episode features a guest who brings their own background to the song, and sometimes they trash it a little, but mostly it is positive.

Another music history show I just started is called A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs. Much more serious, lots of clips of the songs. The histories are extensive, getting into the music and the history of the bands.

Hardcore History by Dan Carlin

If somebody asked me for one recommendation, it would be the Hardcore History podcast with Dan Carlin.

Dan Carlin is the best. He has been making podcasts since podcasts began. He does one or two episodes a year, and they are effectively the length of an audiobook, with an insanely colorful story driven approach on the topic. His business model is that the most recent episodes are free, and the older catalog episodes are paid (insane value btw).

There is a series he did on the war in the Pacific called Supernova in the East. To tell the story of the Asia-Pacific War from 1937 to 1945, he starts in the 1800s. Japan had been almost completely closed off, with the Dutch as a narrow exception. Then the United States showed up with a massive warship and forced the country open. Japan looked around, saw how far behind it had fallen, and modernized in a single generation. They sent students to Western schools, brought the techniques back home, and then applied their own principles and attention to detail to make them better.

Right now he is doing a series on Alexander the Great. It is a great follow up to a classic series he did called King of Kings, which is what the Persian emperors referred to themselves as. It goes through the succession of Persian kings and ends with the fall of that empire. The fact that a 3-part 13 hour podcast exists as a result of Dan trying to tell the story of The 300 spartans at Thermopylae encapsulates the madness that drives him.

It can be kind of daunting to sit down and listen to a four-hour podcast, but you do not have to listen to the whole thing in one sitting. When a new episode drops, it moves to the next spot in my queue automatically.

American Revolution

For straight history, and something similar to the above, I would recommend the American Revolution Podcast. That one gets into very, very granular detail about the American Revolution.

If you want the story told carefully and slowly, with all the side characters and side events, this is the show.

How Did This Get Made?

For pure entertainment, How Did This Get Made? is the one. The hosts are Jason Mantzoukas, Paul Scheer, and June Diane Raphael, and they basically watch bad movies and comment on them. Almost every episode has a catchphrase-worthy takeaway.

Notable episodes include Face/Off, and if you have never seen that movie, you should watch it because it is crazy. They also covered Con Air. The whole catalog is worth a scroll.

Conclusion

Here's a summary of my podcast recommendations:

• Founders by David Senra: Breakdowns the biographies of interesting founders and historical business figures.
• My First Million: Rapid-fire business ideas and case studies. A good entry point if you want ideas thrown at you quickly.
• The Game by Alex Hormozi: Actionable advice and frameworks for building and scaling a business.
• 60 Songs That Explain the 90s: Rob Harvilla unpacks one nineties hit per episode, tracing the music and music videos that led up to it.
• A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs: Long-form background on the bands and the history behind each song.
• Hardcore History by Dan Carlin: Audiobook-length episodes on a single topic — the war in the Pacific, the Persian Empire — one or two a year.
• American Revolution: A slow, granular walk through the Revolution with all the side characters and side events.
• How Did This Get Made?: Three comedians watch bad movies and pick them apart. Pure entertainment.

Check back soon for the next installment, where I will get into some of the smaller, lesser-known podcasts in my rotation.

This event was in April - it was a very exciting moment, and a real sign of the potential for our area.

A Major Employer

AMPERA is hiring 90 people this year, with a long term target of 2,500 jobs at its new global headquarters. A company of that size setting up shop here is a huge vote of confidence about the growth potential in Palm Beach County and its impact on the world as a result. They chose our region on purpose, and that matters for every business owner, recruiter, and professional in the area.

Noel Martinez, the President and CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, summed it up well in the press release:

"Companies like AMPERA choosing Northern Palm Beach County for their global operations reinforce our vision of this region as Florida's Prosperity Coast."

Noel Martinez of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce.

What They Build

AMPERA is developing what it calls a subcritical thorium breeder micro-reactor. Each unit is designed to fit inside a standard 40 foot shipping container, so the whole system can be moved by truck, rail, ship, or military cargo aircraft. The container holds the reactor core, multilayered shielding, a heat exchanger, a turbine, and a generator. The design is meant to be safe, contained, and scalable.

AMPERA's founder and CEO Brian Matthews put the scale of a single unit this way:

"The systems can power thousands of homes, 10,000 to 20,000 homes."

The company is focused on three areas of power production:

• Data centers
• Maritime applications, like shipping and operations on the seas
• Defense capabilities, including forward deployed military bases

Because the reactors run on thorium, there is no refueling and no plutonium waste. That is a big part of why this technology feels different from what most people picture when they hear the word nuclear.

Interactive reactor demo display on the facility floor.

The Grand Opening

When you walked up to the event, there was a kiosk almost like a check-in at the airport that took your photo. They used an AI tool to turn those photos into two keepsakes. One showed me in a lab coat at the facility. The other was a fun one of me as Thor, with a nod to thorium. Every guest got a little business card holder with the images on either side, and we were emailed the digital versions too. It was a thoughtful touch for a grand opening.

The facility itself was massive, around 100,000 square feet across two buildings at the Gardens Innovation Center at PGA National Commerce Park. They filled the warehouse with mockups, including full size trailers with fake reactors inside so you could see what the real thing would look like. Those pieces were all 3D printed by a company the same founder started, which I thought was a cool bit of backstory.

Why I Care

My dad was a submarine commander and is a nuclear engineer, so nuclear power has been a topic around the diner table since childhood. I think a lot of people do not appreciate how safe nuclear really is. More people die from coal in a single year than have ever died from nuclear power, even if you include Chernobyl, Fukushima, and the bombs in World War II. There is a lot of unlocking available for humanity if we can get past the old prejudices.

AMPERA's design leans into that safety story. As Brian Matthews explained:

"We don't have a self-sustaining chain reaction. And if you don't have a self-sustaining chain reaction, if you remove the power to neutron generators, the system can only shut down."

That is a very different picture from the old image of runaway nuclear power.

The Team

AMPERA had Greg Brostowicz, their Vice President of Marketing and Communications. I first met Greg years ago when his PR firm was working on a local Marina expansion project and asked me to get involved as a recruiter. That is one of the many ways that showing up in the community opens doors, and it is what made this grand opening feel so personal.

What Comes Next

Between the hiring ramp, the focus on real world applications like data centers and maritime shipping, and the scale of what they are building under CEO Brian Matthews, this is going to be very big for our community. It starts to feel like the future they talked about back in the 60s is finally here.

You can read more about the opening in this WPTV coverage.

Conclusion

A company like AMPERA planting its flag in Palm Beach Gardens is a major win. They are bringing serious jobs, new technology, and real energy solutions to the region. For business owners, that kind of growth creates opportunity on every side.

If you are building your team and need help finding the right people in sales, management, legal, or administrative roles, reach out to me today.

The Pickle

Owen went all in on his costume. He dressed up as Pickle Rick, the pickle character from Rick and Morty. He took it very seriously, and he got plenty of attention walking the floor.

Seeing him commit to the full experience made the whole trip worth it.

Some cool pictures of Owen

On the Floor

WonderCon is a great people watching event. Doctor Octopus, Freddy Fazbear, Ghostface (from Scream), Arc Raiders, and every other character you can think of walks past you.

It is a fun environment to wander through and enjoy the creativity on display.

Around Town

Beyond the convention, Owen and I got out to see parts of California together.

A few hikes, some good food, and quality grandfather and grandson time.

Owen and I sightseeing together in California.

Conclusion

Trips like these mean a lot to me. Work keeps me busy, so making time to travel with family is something I always try to factor in. Owen and I had a blast, and I am already thinking about where we might go next.

Check back soon for more personal updates. Or read more about what I've been up to lately.

Recent Placements

We successfully placed candidates with two clients in Miami:

• A law firm that came to us as a referral from another company
• A long term client we have worked with for a while

Referrals like these are the kind of growth I am most proud of, because they mean clients are happy and they are passing our name along to others.

Open Roles

We are currently working on several attorney positions:

• Attorney roles in New Jersey
• Additional attorney positions for the Miami law firm

If you are in those markets and considering your next move, let us know.

Networking

I also continue to show up with my networking group, NLX, The Lead Exchange.

Those relationships are a big part of how referrals turn into successful placements.

Conclusion

Every placement is a win for the candidate, for the client, and for the broader market we serve. It is a pleasure to be part of those matches.

If your firm is looking to hire strong talent in sales, legal, management, or administrative roles, reach out to me today.

Or visit our website here: https://salesbountyhunter.com/

Ambassador Event

I am a member of the Ambassador Committee with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. The committee hosted an event for new and prospective chamber members to learn more about what joining is all about and why it can be a beneficial thing for your business.

For the event, we split up different aspects of chamber membership into categories. Attendees rotated between three groups. I spoke about the committees and councils of the chamber, and about advocacy. Beyond Networking

When people think about the chamber, they think about networking events and growing their business through meeting other businesses and building relationships and leads. That is all true, and it is all great. But there are less tangible aspects of chamber membership that people do not always think about.

One of those is the way the chamber advocates for our local community, both in Tallahassee and here at home. The chamber speaks to the government about issues that matter to us, like the cost of home ownership and the cost of insurance. When I am trying to recruit people to move to this community and they cannot find a home, it does not make any sense. Advocacy is how we address those bigger problems.

Why It Matters

Being an ambassador is very meaningful for me. Being a part of the chamber has brought a lot of attention, exposure, and benefit to my business. Serving as an ambassador is a way to help bring other people along into that same experience.

Previously, the chamber hosted a CEO connection event and a Power networking event, also featured in these photos.

Garden Update

Back at home, my pineapples are looking great. The sheds in the background do not! There is something really satisfying about walking outside and seeing plants actually producing. A small reward for the time I spent earlier in the season.

Conclusion

It has been a full month of showing up. I got to give back to the community that has given so much to my business, and I got a bit of time with my hands in the dirt at home. Both feel good.

Check back soon for more updates on the garden, the business, and everything in between.

From the baseball diamond to my own backyard, it has been good to stay active.

Baseball

I took my grandson to a spring training game in Jupiter, Florida.

We saw the Marlins play the Cardinals. We had a great time sitting in the stands with some popcorn and hot dogs. It started to rain so we had to leave a little early, but it was a fantastic way to spend the day together.

Garden Harvest

Back at home, the garden is starting to produce quite a bit. I am currently harvesting black raspberries from the plants I put in 3 years ago.

There is nothing quite like eating something fresh that you grew yourself. It is a nice reward for the gardening work I did a few months back.

If you want to read more about my garden and plant updates, here are a few articles:

• Garden Update: Frost, Flowers, and Resilience - my most recent update
• My Backyard Garden Update - I wrote this earlier this year
• What’s Growing in My Backyard Right Now - my first garden article

Conclusion

Between the baseball games and the garden updates, it has been a refreshing time. Even while dealing with some health issues, I have made it a point to show up for my networking groups and spend quality time with my family.

Life is about balance. I am looking forward to a fast recovery and more time in the sun.

Check back soon for more updates on what is growing in the garden and in my business.

This event was a great opportunity to support a worthy cause while connecting with colleagues and clients. I invited seven guests to join me for an afternoon of networking and community support.

Honoring Excellence

The highlight of the luncheon was honoring Justice Barbara Pariente. She is a former Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice with a long and distinguished career.

Many of my clients have served with her or conducted cases in front of her in the past, so it was a very meaningful moment for everyone at our table.

Building Connections

Events like these are vital for the legal and business community in Florida. Sponsoring a table allowed me to bring together a group of professionals to discuss the important work the AAUW does.

It was a great mix of high value networking and supporting the next generation of university women.

Short Reflection

The LIFT benefit luncheon was a successful event that reminded me of the importance of community involvement. It is always a pleasure to step away from the desk to support organizations that make a real difference in people's lives.

I am proud to support the AAUW and the professionals in my network who attended. It was a great day for everyone involved.

Want to learn more about our community involvement or how we connect top talent? Let’s chat.

While the workshop was the main event, the trip was also a great opportunity to experience some of the best entertainment and dining Las Vegas has to offer.

Solve Business Constraints

The primary focus of the workshop was identifying the things that limit your business. In any company, you are always trying to solve the next problem. Even if you crack the code on getting more leads, you then have to deliver on those leads.

We spent time figuring out whether we had a supply constraint or a demand constraint. We also learned about removing yourself as the single point of failure so the business can grow predictably.

The Sphere

Outside of the workshop, I had the chance to visit the Sphere to see the Eagles. It was an incredible experience. Between the show and winning some money playing craps, the trip was full of highlights.

Experiences like these are a great reminder of why we work so hard to scale our businesses and create high-value opportunities.

Best Eats

My wife and I also made a point to visit some fantastic restaurants while we were in town.

We had great meals at:

• Cleaver, which was a lot of fun.
• Yardbird, a solid spot for good food.
• In-N-Out Burger, a must-visit whenever I head west.

Conclusion

This workshop provided a great glimpse into how high-level businesses operate. By understanding specific bottlenecks in your process, you can stop guessing and start growing. The insights from the Acquisition.com team and experts like Ed Turney were incredibly valuable for my strategic planning.

I am looking forward to implementing these tactics to help more businesses find the right people. It is all about moving up the ladder to the next big thing.

If you are ready to scale your recruitment efforts or your business, reach out to me today.

Berry Fresh Cafe

Berry Fresh is my favorite spot for weekend brunch.

Back when I owned a vape shop, my partners and I would meet here every week for business meetings. They have incredible fresh-baked cinnamon rolls with frosting drizzled on top.

My usual order is the chicken bacon avocado hash, which features scrambled eggs, potatoes, guacamole, and salsa over a bed of potatoes. With a biscuit on the side. Perfect for a light breakfast. All farm to table, too! They also do a great iced coffee with ice cubes made entirely of coffee so the flavor never gets watered down.

Alaina’s Cafe

Alaina’s is a fantastic spot where everything is made from scratch from the pickles to the chips. It is a cozy, restaurant that has grown significantly over the years.

I am a creature of habit, so I almost always get the TBA (Turkey Bacon Avocado) sandwich on fresh-baked ciabatta bread with ranch dressing. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the service is some of the speediest I have seen.

I've written more about this in 80 Candidates and Counting.

Taco Chula

For Mexican food, you cannot beat Taco Chula. It is a family-run business that serves very fresh and tasty food.

I usually go for a burrito bowl with barbacoa or carne asada. They offer deserts too. Including fresh churros with caramel and chocolate dipping sauces. If you want to go all out, they have a spot next door that offers a variety of ice cream. They have been expanding their outdoor seating lately, making it a great place to enjoy the Florida weather.

Underground Pizza

If you are looking for a great pizza spot, Underground Pizza is the place. The owners are from California, but they specialize in Chicago-style pizza. They offer both deep dish and thin-crust options with high-quality ingredients.

My grandson and I are team pineapple on pizza, and we usually get a pepperoni, pineapple, and bacon pie. It is a bit more expensive than your average pizza place, but the flaky crust and fresh toppings make it worth the prices.

Conclusion

What makes a restaurant great for me is the consistency.

There is something special about being a regular at a local spot where the staff knows your order and treats you like family.

I highly recommend checking out any of these locations if you find yourself in my corner of Florida. You will not find a bad dish at any of them.

Pineapple Flowers

The biggest highlight right now is the pineapple progress. Back in January, I was excited to see five flowers growing. Those flowers are now developing into fruit.

I made sure to keep them covered during the recent freeze, and while it takes about six months to reach harvest, they seem to be surviving. It is a long game, but seeing those tasty fruits finally take shape is worth the wait.

Banana Drama

I have to admit, my freeze preparations for the bigger trees were a bit half-assed. While I finally got the hang of the harvest last year, the recent freezing temperatures were brutal.

My banana and papaya trees look like they are in rough shape. The leaves are brown and three of the banana trees appear to be totally dead. There are still bananas and papayas on the stalks, but I do not have much hope that they will develop further.

Hardy Berries

The berries continue to be the most resilient part of the garden. In January, I mentioned they were sprouting everywhere because I let them grow wild.

I managed to harvest and eat some berries just before the freeze hit. The bushes seem hardy enough to handle the cold, and I am optimistic they will bounce back now that temperatures are returning to normal.

Passion Fruit

The passion fruit situation remains a question mark. After losing half my crop in January, another one fell off recently because of the cold. It was still green when it dropped, but it ripened on my counter and turned red.

My grandson and I cracked it open to try it. He really liked it, but for me, it was still a little too tart. I have two or three more still growing on the vine, so we will see how they turn out.

Conclusion

Gardening is a learning experience. Watching a plant go from a simple start to actual fruit is a rewarding process, even when the weather does not cooperate.

Dealing with the setbacks of a freeze is just another part of the problem solving that makes this hobby so satisfying.

What are your tips for protecting a garden during a surprise freeze?

I have set some specific goals for 2026 to make sure I am staying active every day.

Increasing My Steps

In 2025, I averaged about 10,000 steps a day. I had to do a lot of walking on New Year's Eve just to hit that annual average.

For 2026, I am raising the bar to 12,000 steps a day. It is harder to hit that number consistently, but I feel much better when I am moving around instead of sitting at my desk.

Daily Activity

I am using the Peloton app to track my workouts. My goal is to do something active every single day, whether it is lifting weights, stretching, or riding the bike.

I want to hit at least 10,000 minutes of activity this year. I am currently aiming to lift weights every other day to stay in shape.

Meal Prepping

To help with my fitness goals, I meal prep on Sundays. I cook lunch and dinner for the entire work week. This helps me avoid snacking. It is easy to fall off track with food, so having a plan makes a big difference. I fall short often.

Being intentional with my time has been a recurring theme for me. I explored this more in A Reminder About Time.

Conclusion

Setting these goals keeps me motivated. It takes a lot of discipline to meal prep and hit a high step count every day, but the results are worth it.

I am only a few weeks into the new year, but I am staying consistent so far. I want to make sure I am doing more for my health this year than I did last year.

Enjoyed reading this? More articles on my blog.

It is a great way to meet other small business owners and share new opportunities.

Keep reading below to learn more about Network Lead Exchange.

About The Group

Network Lead Exchange is a structured business networking organization designed to help professionals generate quality referrals and build lasting business relationships.

Unlike casual networking events, our groups operate on a proven system where members commit to actively referring business to one another. Each group meets regularly in person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, creating a consistent environment for relationship building and accountability.

With only one member per profession allowed in each group, you'll never compete with fellow members. Instead, you'll become their go-to expert in your field, while they become yours in theirs.

This exclusivity, combined with our focus on genuine collaboration over transactional exchanges, is what transforms casual contacts into your most valuable business partners.

Oceana Coffee

We have been holding our meetings at Oceana Coffee. It is a local coffee roaster, but the location is more than just a cafe. They have a culinary institute and a business incubator upstairs co-founded by Amy Angelo.

It is an amazing space built to help micro-brands and small businesses in the culinary space grow. It was a very cool environment for our first in person meeting.

Sharing Referrals

The group meets weekly to share leads and referrals. There is a commission sharing element to it.

I enjoy being part of a group where everyone is navigating similar business challenges. It is a great way to build a supportive community.

New Business Leads

Networking is already starting to pay off. I have been talking to one of the guests from last week about using my recruiting services to hire a team of sales people. I have a contract out to them now. It is exciting to see these conversations turning into real business opportunities so quickly.

Conclusion

Expanding my network is a priority for my business. Meeting in person allows for better conversations and more meaningful connections than meeting over Zoom.

Showing up consistently is what makes networking work. I wrote more about this in Circle Marketing.

I look forward to seeing this group grow. It is a talented group of people and I think we can all benefit from working together.

If you’re curious about Network Lead Exchange, visit their website.

It was an experience I won't soon forget.

Rancho Nando

We went to a place called Rancho Nando in Pembroke Pines. It is half Colombian steakhouse half nightclub.

Dinner started late, around 9:00 PM, so the food didn't even arrive until 10:00 PM. I ordered the Carne a la Llanera, which means meat of the plains. It was a very flavorful steak and a great meal.

The Atmosphere

The environment was a bit crazy. There was a live performer wearing a cowboy hat and big chops singing in Spanish. Reminded me of the guy from “my name is jeff” scene in 22 Jumpstreet.

Everyone was dancing and having a great time. Even my wife's mother, who is almost 90, was out there enjoying the music. It was a very loud and lively crowd.

Moments like these remind me of the magic of gathering together. I wrote more about this in The Real Magic of Holiday Parties.

Conclusion

We didn't get home until 1:30 in the morning, which is much later than I stayed up on New Year's Eve. It was a long night but a fun celebration for a 70th birthday.

Family gatherings are always full of surprises. It was great to see everyone having such a good time together.

What is the most unique restaurant you have visited lately?

Well, it's time for an update—and let me tell you, Florida weather had other plans.

Weather Challenges

The temperatures in Florida recently dropped to about 40 degrees and then in the 50s for a few days in a row. Remember those seven passion fruits I mentioned? Unfortunately, I lost about half of my crop because it got too cold. One of them got all wrinkly but stayed green. I tasted it, and it was very sour and bitter.

Hopefully, the remaining ones will develop properly and turn red or yellow.

Raspberries and Ginger

On a more positive note, those black raspberry flowers I talked about are now sprouting everywhere. I am hoping for a nice bumper crop this year since I have let the berry bushes grow wild.

I also finally harvested my ginger. I got several pounds of it and was able to sell it to a local green market for ten dollars in store credit. I guess you could say I am a professional farmer now.

Growing Pineapples

The biggest news is my pineapples. Last time, I mentioned seeing some growth on my pineapple plantation. Well, now I have five flowers growing! It takes about six months to get a harvest. I need to get out there this weekend and re-pot a few of them. If the plant splits into two and you don't repot them the fruit will be stunted. I want to make sure they have plenty of room to grow.

Conclusion

Gardening is a great hobby even if you spend more on dirt and fertilizer than the fruit is worth. It is rewarding to see things grow from a simple plant into something you can eat. Between the berries, ginger, and pineapples, there is always something to do outside.

Working on nature’s timeline is a nice counterbalance to the fast pace of recruiting. I reflected on appreciating time in A Reminder About Time.

I look forward to seeing how these crops turn out over the next few months. It is a lot of work but it is definitely worth the effort.

What are you growing in your garden this season?

Early Bloomers

My black raspberry plants are blooming early. I’m not sure if there’s some false spring, but if it goes well, I should have some early berries.

It’s one of those things where you’re never quite sure with Florida weather, but I’m optimistic.

And here’s one of 7 passion fruits! Their flowers are amazing, and I’ve only seen one or two fully bloom. But I’m getting to see the “fruits” even when I missed the flowers. There is some philosophical maxim to glean from that.

Banana Drama

I finished eating my banana bunch just in time for a new bunch to drop. So more bananas are coming in 90 days.

I’ve been growing bananas for a while now. Got the plants from a nice older lady up the street from me. A friend of mine said they’re more trouble than they’re worth. And for a while I was inclined to agree. Bananas are cheap and readily available all year round. And I couldn’t get the hang of it. Entire bunches of bananas were going to waste. This last one was the first that I feel I got just right. Leaving the bunch on the plant, waiting the 90 days, and plucking off the bananas just as they turn ripe did the trick. Oh, and encouraging my neighbors to take their share. This all helped avoid a big black pile of rotten bananas.

Pineapple Plantation

My pineapple plantation is booming. Seeing some growth on my pineapple plants. These are supposed to be two different rare pineapple varieties, but honestly, they all seem the same to me.

Maybe I’m missing something, or maybe rare doesn’t always mean different looking. Either way, I’m excited to see how they turn out.

Gardening teaches patience—something I wrote about in the context of life’s bigger picture in A Reminder About Time.

The Giant Papaya

Here’s the highlight: I had a 4.78 pound papaya. According to the internet, that’s above average. And it tasted great!

I’ve been enjoying the papaya more than I thought. Sometimes you grow something just to see if you can, and then you’re pleasantly surprised to find you actually like it.

Why I Started This

Growing plants isn’t really about the harvest, though that’s a nice bonus. It’s about the process. Watching something go from seed or cutting to actual fruit. Dealing with the surprises, the setbacks, the unexpected wins.

It’s a different kind of problem solving than what I do in my work life, and I think that’s why it’s so satisfying.

Balancing this hobby with my recruiting work keeps me grounded. Learn more about what I do in my bio.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever thought about growing your own food, even in a small way, I’d say go for it. Start with something easy. See what happens. You might surprise yourself with what you can grow and how much you enjoy it.

There’s something grounding about getting your hands dirty and watching things grow. In a world that moves as fast as ours does, having something that operates on nature’s timeline is pretty valuable.

Enjoyed reading this? Keep reading on my blog.

More Time Away

He’s spending more time with friends on the phone these days. I took him to the movies with his friends, which he went to on his own. He had school activities that ran late. The first night we didn’t pick him up until nine o’clock.

Now he’s spending almost more time outside of the house than with us.

This reminds me of how important these personal connections are. I wrote more about it in The Real Magic of Holiday Parties.

What We Did Together

Even with all that, we still got to do a bunch of different stuff. We went hiking, watched movies, played video games, built gingerbread houses, and baked cookies. He also slept over at a friend’s house for a birthday party.

The Challenges

It’s not all easy. He struggles to remember to do his homework. We tried to keep the trains running on time. I hope we did a fair job.

Conclusion

It’s one of those bittersweet things. He’s getting older and having these other activities, but at the same time, he still wants to spend time with his grandparents. That’s nice.

Want to read more about life, business, and everything in between? Check out my blog or follow me on social media for regular updates.

Between the Chamber Ambassador holiday party, the main chamber celebration, and the Palm Beach County Bar Association event I recently sponsored, my calendar has been packed.

I didn’t throw a specific SalesBountyHunter party this year, which in hindsight, I probably should have.

But here’s what I’ve been thinking about lately.

AMB Party 2025 Group Photo

Personal Connection

The best part about these holiday events? It’s not the business cards or the pitches. It’s the personal interactions. These are business events, sure, but you’re not really conducting business at them. Instead, you’re meeting people at a personal level.

Even though everybody’s all done up, they sort of let their hair down. People are having a few drinks, getting to know each other without their work hats on, and actually having fun. You hear about their families, their holiday plans, the stuff that matters beyond the day to day grind. That’s where real relationships get formed.

Me and Ana

My Networking Trap

I’ll be honest about something. One trap I fall into at holiday parties, and networking in general, is gravitating towards people I already know well instead of meeting new people. I’m by no means perfect at that. But it’s always a high point when I get to go layers deeper with somebody I don’t know as well, or meet somebody completely new.

At the same time, building a relationship long term does involve revisiting those people you do know well, right? You’re taking things to another level, learning something more, or providing some value. It’s not about what I can get out of stuff. What I can do for other people is really where the magic happens.

Building these kinds of relationships is central to my work in recruiting. I share more about connecting people in 80 Candidates and Counting.

Beyond The Usual

This season also brought some unique experiences. I attended a Forum Club interview with Soledad O’Brien, the CNN reporter turned documentarian. She had a lot of interesting insights. Pretty cool stuff.

Then there was the chamber presentation on artificial intelligence. This one was kind of spooky and strange. They had virtual, AI generated avatars leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance and introducing speakers. Normally a human would be on stage at the podium doing all this. Instead, it was a video of an obviously computer generated person or of actual chamber leaders.

They also created a GPT trained on all of the chamber president’s past podcasts and speeches. They asked questions live, with the actual president standing there too. The computer’s answers were almost identical to what he said, even though the responses were gathered in advance. Weird and interesting stuff in the world of AI. Ultimately, to inspire everybody to get more active and productive with these tools.

Other Pictures

Here are some other pictures of me and Ana.

Conclusion

Holiday parties are more than just showing up and shaking hands. They’re about letting people see who you truly are, sharing stories, and finding ways to add value to others’ lives. Whether it’s reconnecting with old friends or pushing yourself to meet someone new, the personal connections you build during this season often matter more than any business deal.

So if you’re headed to holiday parties this season, don’t just stick to your comfort zone. Step out a little. Ask about someone’s family. Share a personal story. That’s where the real networking happens.

Want more insights on networking, business, and life? Check out more articles on my blog or follow me on social media for regular updates.

Tomorrow

After it happened, my friend sent me a text. The last line stopped me cold:

Take care of each other and your loved ones.

I must have read it three times. Here was a man dealing with the most intensely personal tragedy imaginable, and his thoughts were still on other people. Still reaching out. Still caring. It snapped me to attention in a way few things have. Two things hit me all at once. First, the selflessness it takes to think of others in a moment like that. Second, how quickly it can all evaporate. One day you’re planning your week, and the next, everything changes. I was looking for photos for this blog the other day, and I came across so many faces that aren’t here anymore. Grandparents. Friends. Pets. Each one a reminder that tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us.

What Really Matters

These experiences don’t just stay tucked away in my personal life. They seep into everything I do, especially my work as a recruiter. My mission with

SalesBountyHunter

is to help people find their next chapter. Whether that’s a job with better work-life balance or an opportunity that lets someone provide more for their family, it’s all connected to this same truth: life is about more than a paycheck. It’s about building a life you love with the people you care about. I spend so much time bogged down with the minutiae—this task, that decision, this never-ending to-do list. But what’s really important? The connections we all share. It’s a powerful lesson in perspective. We can get so caught up in the day-to-day grind that we forget to step back and appreciate what we have. This perspective shapes everything I do as a recruiter. I explore this more in 80 Candidates and Counting. So I hope this story serves as a gentle reminder to you as well. Feel lucky every day. Take care of each other. And enjoy the time you have with your loved ones.

We recently placed our 80th candidate! It’s these moments that highlight the journey and the mission here at SalesBountyHunter.

While it’s a number to celebrate, it represents something much deeper for me and my business.

Big Moment

Placing our 80th candidate is huge, and it’s a testament to the trust our clients and candidates place in us.

It feels great to see the growth and to know that our work is making a real difference. I’m grateful for every single partnership that has helped us reach this point.

More Than Numbers

While 80 is a great number, what matters is the story behind each placement. My goal is to help people get into that next chapter of their lives. That’s why our mission is Matching Talent with Opportunity.

I love finding people jobs and connecting them with opportunities to thrive. Seeing someone succeed in a role we helped them find is the ultimate reward.

That’s what this is all about—it’s not just business, it’s about changing lives for the better.

Can spot SalesBountyHunter?

Conclusion

In summary, placing our 80th candidate is a moment of pride and reflection. Not just filling positions. But fostering successful careers and helping businesses grow with the right talent. Each placement is a partnership built on trust and a shared goal of success.

This milestone is a reminder of the human element at the heart of recruiting. We are excited about the future and energized to continue making meaningful connections.

Influencers and experts start saying that hiring slows down for the holidays. They tell you to get your work done by October because nothing will happen for the next two months.

In my experience, that’s not the full story.

The “Slowdown” Myth

The conventional wisdom is from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, everyone loses focus.

Decision-makers are on vacation. There are holiday parties, family commitments and progress grinds to a halt.

Yes, some companies pause. Many job seekers hear this and put their search on pause until January. That waiting for a “fresh start” is the smartest move.

This creates a self-fulfilling prophecy. Less activity happens because people expect it to.

The Hiring Reality

At SalesBountyHunter, we don’t take our foot off the gas.

Companies are still hiring, and motivated candidates are still looking. I’ve had people start new jobs on December 27th. Why? Companies needed to hire someone three months ago, and they can’t afford to wait until next year. Their need for talent doesn’t stop because the holidays are approaching.

Some decision-makers might be out of the office. Many are eager to land hires before the year ends. There may be a longer time between interviews, but it is hardly a standstill.

Gaining an Edge

This “slowdown” is actually a huge opportunity. When other candidates are pausing their search, you have a chance to stand out. There’s less competition for the roles that are open, which gives you an advantage.

Likewise, businesses that stay engaged can find the right people.

If you wait until January to start your job hunt (or talent search), you’re already behind. You’ll be competing with everyone else who made the same New Year’s resolution.

Don’t fall into that trap; keep your momentum going.

Conclusion

The idea that hiring stops at the end of the year is a myth that can cost you.

Don’t let a misconception about seasonality dictate your timeline. The best time to look for a new role is when you’re ready, not when the calendar tells you to.

If you’re ready to make a move, let’s talk. There are still great opportunities before the year is out.

Xcel’s mission centers on imparting young people with life skills and career opportunities in the trades, and this summit proved just how powerful that mission truly is.

Outstanding Recognition

A highlight of the summit was the recognition of two outstanding Students of the Year. In a remarkable tie, both students were each awarded a $2,500 scholarship. The four remaining nominees didn’t go home empty-handed either. Each received $300 in recognition of their achievements. These awards reflect Xcel’s commitment to empowering the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

Heartfelt Moments

The event featured heartfelt remarks from Thomas Rivera and his wife, Maribel. Their words added a personal touch to the evening and underscored the deep impact this work has on families and communities.

Conclusion

The 2025 Xcel Annual Summit demonstrated how mentoring programs can transform young lives by opening doors to career opportunities in the trades.

Witnessing such transformative work firsthand was truly moving. The combination of financial support, skills training, and mentorship creates a foundation for long-term success.

Follow me on LinkedIn for more event highlights like this. Or read more on my blog.

Key Takeaways

Circle Marketing: Connect others to create win-win opportunities, prioritizing relationships over self-interest.

Rules: Focus on others, stay observant, be sincere and honest, and keep your motives discreet.

Your Circle: Engage chamber members, vendors, clients, and even strangers. Everyone’s a potential connection.

How to Build Circles: Use open-ended questions. Listen actively, and propose connections. Stay involved in meetings to ensure success.

Start asking, “What can I do to help you today?” to grow your network.

Conclusion

Circle Marketing offers a refreshing approach to networking that puts relationships first. By connecting others and creating win-win opportunities, you naturally build your community reputation while growing your business.

This approach mirrors what I do in recruiting—connecting talent with opportunity. I share more about this journey in 80 Candidates and Counting.

The session highlighted how everyone in your circle represents a potential connection, and using open-ended questions with active listening turns networking from a transactional activity into genuine relationship building.

Thank you, John Dalton and Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, for this game-changing session.

Enjoyed reading this? Follow me on LinkedIn for more updates like this.

The Partnership

We’re joining forces with Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast to make a real difference in students’ lives.

This collaboration focuses on three critical areas: career exploration, financial literacy, and workplace readiness. These aren’t just buzzwords. They’re essential skills that every student needs to succeed in today’s world.

Why It Matters

Students deserve the opportunity to understand how the working world operates before they enter it.

Through this partnership, they’ll gain practical knowledge about managing money, exploring career paths, and developing professional skills. We believe that when you invest in education, you invest in the future.

Conclusion

Partnering with Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast allows us to give back to our community in a meaningful way.

By helping students learn about careers, financial literacy, and workplace readiness, we’re setting them up for success.

Follow me on LinkedIn for more updates like this.

Key Takeaways

• The Fed held rates at 3.50-3.75% in March 2026, with only one cut projected this year (Federal Reserve, 2026)
• US payrolls fell by 92,000 in February 2026, with unemployment rising to 4.4% (BLS, 2026)
• Daly warns AI is creating a "transition dynamic" where companies pause hiring to figure out how AI fits their workforce
• Credit card debt hit $1.28 trillion, a record, with delinquencies at a 14-year high of 12.41% (NY Fed, 2026)
• The World Economic Forum projects AI will create 170 million new jobs by 2030 while displacing 92 million (WEF, 2025)

What Are the Fed's Top Priorities Right Now?

The Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady at 3.50-3.75% on March 18, 2026, with officials projecting just one rate cut this year (Federal Reserve, 2026). This matters for hiring. When Daly spoke at the Forum Club, the Fed was still trying to cool inflation without wrecking the job market. That balancing act hasn't changed.

GDP growth slowed sharply to 0.7% in Q4 2025, down from 4.4% in Q3 (BEA, 2026). The economy grew just 2.1% for the full year. When someone asked Daly what the next rate decision would be, she said to keep an open mind. That got a laugh from the audience. But behind the humor? Real caution.

The Fed revised its 2026 growth forecast down to just 0.9%, signaling they see a bumpy road ahead (CNBC, 2026). For employers, that means planning for slower conditions. For job seekers, it means patience.

Is the Fed Really That Divided on Policy?

Seven of the 19 FOMC participants now expect rates to stay unchanged all year, one more than in December's projections (Federal Reserve, 2026). Meanwhile, Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman has penciled in three cuts (Fox Business, 2026). That's a big spread.

Daly's answer at the Forum Club was clear: no, the Fed isn't more divided than usual. The high consensus during COVID was the anomaly. She emphasized that healthy debate, like what we saw in 2019, is what actually drives good policy.

From my seat in recruiting, I'll add this: the disagreement matters less than what they agree on. They all see a labor market that's cooling. They all see AI reshaping how companies hire. The question is just how fast.

How Does the Fed Actually Gather Its Data?

The Fed draws from three pillars: government statistics, business surveys, and direct conversations with companies about their plans. Amid what Daly called "data fog," they lean harder on real-world conversations. She's not wrong about the fog.

US payrolls fell by 92,000 in February 2026, a surprise to most economists (BLS, 2026). Unemployment ticked up to 4.4%, with 7.6 million Americans out of work. Labor force participation dropped to 62%, its lowest since December 2021.

Here's what the numbers don't always capture: the people I talk to every day. Candidates who've been searching for three, four, five months. Employers who have open roles but keep pushing back start dates. The data shows "some softness," as Daly put it. On the ground, it feels like more than that.

US Labor Market Snapshot, February 2026 Unemployment Rate Participation Rate Avg Jobless Duration (wks) Wage Growth (YoY) Payroll Change (thousands) 4.4% 62.0% 25.7 wks 3.8% -92K Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, February 2026

US labor market indicators as of February 2026. Payrolls unexpectedly fell while unemployment rose to its highest level since late 2021. Source: BLS.

How Is AI Actually Changing the Job Market?

Forty-one percent of employers globally plan to reduce headcount using AI, according to the World Economic Forum's 2025 Future of Jobs Report (WEF, 2025). But the same report projects 170 million new jobs created by 2030, against 92 million displaced. Net positive. So which is it?

Both. And that's exactly what Daly described at the Forum Club.

AI has two faces. It drives stock prices up. But it starts real fights between people who fear massive job losses and people who love the technology. In a February 2026 speech at San Jose State University, Daly used the phrase "transition dynamic" to describe what's happening right now: companies are holding off on hiring because they're trying to figure out how AI fits into their workforce (Axios, 2026).

I see this every week in my recruiting work. Employers aren't cutting jobs outright. They're just... pausing. Waiting. Trying not to hire the "wrong workers" before they know what AI can handle. That hesitation ripples through the entire market.

Think of AI like electricity or the steam engine. It could change everything. Daly used the physician's assistant example, which I found compelling: a PA uses AI to ask diagnostic questions, helping address doctor shortages without replacing the doctor. That's augmentation, not replacement. And the data backs it up. Ninety-four percent of physicians now report using or wanting to use AI, with daily usage jumping from 47% to 63% in just one year (Doximity, 2026).

But past tech shifts, like the rise of computers, did eliminate entire categories of mid-level jobs. We have to watch this carefully.

How Employers Plan to Handle AI's Workforce Impact Net Impact +78M Jobs 77% plan to upskill staff 47% will move workers to new roles internally 41% plan to reduce headcount with AI Source: World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report 2025

Most employers plan to upskill workers rather than cut them, though 41% still expect AI-driven headcount reductions. Source: WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025.

What Does the K-Shaped Recovery Mean for Workers?

Credit card debt hit a record $1.28 trillion in Q4 2025, up 5.5% from the year before, with the average American carrying $6,360 in balances (NY Fed, 2026). Serious delinquencies, balances 90-plus days past due, climbed to 12.41%, the highest rate in more than 14 years.

Daly's description of the K-shaped economy holds up. The top half is doing fine. Spending by the top 10% grew 62% between Q3 2020 and Q3 2025, far outpacing every other income group (Minneapolis Fed, 2026). The bottom half? They burned through their COVID savings. Inflation ate into what was left.

Just 19% of Americans ended 2025 with more emergency savings than they started with, and those were mostly households earning $100,000 or more (KBTX, 2026). The national savings rate sits at 4.6%, well below the 40-year average of 6.4%.

What does this look like in my world? Candidates who can't afford to wait for the right role. People taking lower pay just to have something. And employers who know this, which sometimes affects what they offer. It's a tough dynamic.

What's the Real State of the Economy?

GDP grew just 0.7% in Q4 2025, dragged down partly by a government shutdown that subtracted a full percentage point from growth (BEA, 2026). The Fed revised its 2026 forecast to 0.9% growth. Those aren't recession numbers, but they aren't comfortable either.

The economy is good overall. But it's more vulnerable than headline numbers suggest. Daly's personal story drives this home. She dropped out of high school to help her family during a downturn. She later earned her GED and eventually a PhD in economics. She emphasized that no matter what the data shows, the economy is about people.

In March 2026, she warned that "labor market weakness shows persistent risks" to the Fed's dual mandate of stable prices and maximum employment (Bloomberg, 2026). That language matters. "Persistent risks" isn't something Fed officials say casually.

What Does Mary Daly Actually Do at the San Francisco Fed?

As San Francisco Fed President, Daly runs an organization with 1,800 employees. She handles cash flow and digital payment systems. But the part that stood out to me was how much of her job involves listening: talking to business owners, workers, and community members, then bringing those stories to the Federal Open Market Committee.

Her February 2026 speech made this point directly. She argued that the Fed won't find answers just in aggregate data, and that "seeing developments before they fully emerge requires digging deeper, relying on disaggregated information" (SF Fed, 2026). In other words, talk to real people. As a recruiter, I couldn't agree more.

What Should We Watch Going Forward?

On picking the next Fed Chair, Daly was direct: it won't change their work. The Fed stays independent and follows the data.

But here's what I'm watching from the recruiting trenches. Will AI's "transition dynamic" break, meaning companies finally start hiring again with clearer AI strategies? Or does this limbo stretch through 2026? The WEF's projection of 78 million net new jobs by 2030 is encouraging, but those jobs won't appear overnight. And they'll require different skills.

Seventy-seven percent of employers plan to upskill their workforce for AI, rather than just cutting heads (WEF, 2025). That's the signal I'd hang my hat on. Companies that invest in their people through this transition will come out ahead. The ones who freeze? They'll fall behind.

What do you think? Will AI boost productivity without making inequality worse? Or does a softening job market mean bigger changes are on the way?

Frequently Asked Questions

How is AI affecting hiring in 2026?

Many employers are pausing hiring decisions while they evaluate how AI fits their workforce. San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly calls this a "transition dynamic" where companies fear hiring the "wrong workers" before understanding AI's role. The WEF projects 170 million new jobs created by 2030, but the transition period is creating uncertainty for both job seekers and employers.

What is the current US unemployment rate?

The US unemployment rate rose to 4.4% in February 2026, with 7.6 million people unemployed. Nonfarm payrolls unexpectedly fell by 92,000, and labor force participation dropped to 62%, its lowest level since December 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What does K-shaped recovery mean?

A K-shaped recovery describes an economy where high-income earners recover and thrive while lower-income households fall further behind. In the current economy, spending by the top 10% grew 62% since 2020, while lower-income Americans face record credit card debt of $1.28 trillion and a 12.41% serious delinquency rate.

What is the Federal Reserve's current interest rate?

The Federal Reserve held rates steady at 3.50-3.75% at its March 18, 2026 meeting. Officials project one rate cut in 2026, though there's disagreement: seven of 19 FOMC participants expect no cuts at all, while Vice Chair Bowman has penciled in three.

Will AI replace recruiting jobs?

Based on current trends, AI is augmenting recruiting rather than replacing it. Tools help with resume screening and candidate matching, but relationship-building, cultural assessment, and complex negotiations still require human judgment. The WEF identifies creative thinking and analytical skills as the fastest-growing capabilities in demand.

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Originally published November 5, 2025. Updated March 26, 2026 with latest Federal Reserve data, February 2026 jobs report, and Mary Daly's recent remarks on AI and the labor market.

John Brandes is a recruiter and founder of SalesBountyHunter with 20+ years in talent acquisition. Follow him on LinkedIn for recruiting insights.

As a recruiter who reviews hundreds of them, I can tell you that certain things immediately stand out, for better or for worse.

While many people worry about AI screening their application, the truth is that at my agency, a human reviews every resume.

Here are the top five things I look for that separate a good candidate from a great one.

Stability

The first thing I check is job tenure.

Seeing that a candidate has stayed in a role for at least two years is a strong positive signal.

While one or two short stints can be explained, a pattern of frequent job-hopping (multiple jobs within a single year, for example) is a major red flag for employers.

Value

Do not just list your duties; show your accomplishments.

I look for resumes that include clear metrics and accolades.

For example:

• “Increased team sales by 15% in one year.”
• “Named ‘Top Performer’ for three consecutive quarters.”
• “Successfully managed a portfolio of 50+ clients.”

Numbers and awards prove you deliver results.

Relevance

Your experience needs to be a spot-on match for the role.

I look for skills and work history that directly apply to the job description. Generic resumes that feel like they have been sent to a hundred different companies are easy to spot.

Tailor your resume to show why you are the perfect fit for this specific job.

Personality

A thoughtful, non-generic cover letter can make a huge difference. It is an opportunity to show your personality and explain why you are genuinely interested in the company and the role.

This extra touch shows you are serious and have put in the effort, which helps you stand out from the crowd.

Remember This

Always remember that a person is reading your resume. Make it easy for them. Use a clean, simple format that is easy to scan. Ensure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes.

A polished, professional document shows respect for the reader’s time and attention to detail.

Conclusion

In summary, a winning resume demonstrates stability, proves your value with metrics, is highly relevant to the job, includes a personal touch, and is easy for a human to read.

Focus on these five key areas:

• Show stability and commitment in your work history.
• Prove your value with clear metrics and results.
• Tailor your experience to be relevant to the job.
• Add a personal touch with a thoughtful cover letter.
• Make it professional, scannable, and easy for a human to read.

The job search can be frustrating, but focusing on these key areas will dramatically improve your chances of getting noticed.

Enjoyed reading? Read more of my articles on my blog.

Juggling client needs, candidate interviews, and administrative tasks means I rely on a specific set of tools to stay organized and productive.

Here is a look at the simple but powerful tech stack that powers SalesBountyHunter every day.

Browser Choice

My go-to browser is Brave. It is built on the same foundation as Google Chrome but is much faster and lighter on my computer’s resources.

The key benefits for me are:

• Speed: It loads pages quickly without unnecessary clutter.
• Privacy: It has built-in features that block trackers and ads, which keeps my work focused.
• Efficiency: It uses less power, which is great when I am working on the go.

Meeting Smarter

Clear communication is non-negotiable.

For virtual meetings, I use Fathom Notetaker to help record and transcribe conversations so I never miss a detail.

To ensure my voice is heard clearly, I use a Blue Yeti microphone.

This combination makes interviews more productive and allows me to focus on the candidate, not on taking notes.

Workspace Essentials

My physical setup is just as important as my software.

I use a dual-monitor setup, which allows me to view a job description on one screen and a candidate’s resume on the other.

This makes cross-referencing information seamless. I also use a mechanical keyboard, which makes typing for long periods more comfortable and accurate.

Communication Hub

Everything comes back to email. I use Gmail with Google Workspace as my central hub for all communication.

It is reliable, integrates with my calendar, and keeps all my client and candidate conversations organized in one place.

It is a simple tool, but it is the backbone of my daily workflow.

Conclusion

My tech stack is all about supporting a process of speed, clarity, and focus.

Ultimately, technology should serve the work, not complicate it.

These tools allow me to spend less time on administrative tasks and more time doing what I do best: connecting great people with great companies.

While everything I mention in this article is pretty basic, I am old school at my core. A notepad, pen and phone drives most of my work.

If you need a recruiter who values efficiency and clear communication, get in touch with SalesBountyHunter today. Or contact me directly.

Our mission has always been to connect exceptional talent with the right opportunities, and recent milestones show that our focused approach is making a real impact.

Here’s a quick look at what we have been up to.

Hitting Milestones

We are thrilled to celebrate a significant achievement. We have now successfully placed 77 talented professionals in their ideal roles, and we are on track to reach 80 placements very soon.

This month alone was a huge success, with three new candidates starting their positions on October 1st.

It is a privilege to play a part in so many career journeys.

Expanding Team

To keep up with the growing demand, we have expanded our own team.

In July, we welcomed a new employee who has been instrumental in helping us manage our workload and serve our clients better.

Their contribution has been fantastic, allowing us to maintain the high standard of service you expect from SalesBountyHunter.

Future Growth

The momentum is not slowing down. We currently have three more offers in the works for talented individuals.

We are excited about the future and remain committed to finding the best sales professionals and attorneys for our clients.

There is much more to come, and we look forward to sharing our continued progress.

Conclusion

In short, it has been a period of major achievements, from hitting our placement goals to expanding our team. These successes reinforce our commitment to quality, human-centered recruiting.

We believe that the right person can transform a business, and the right role can transform a career.

If you are looking to find your next great hire, contact SalesBountyHunter today to see how we can help. Or contact me directly.

As a salesperson, earning a commission is a key motivator and a reward for hard work.

As a business owner, paying out a commission to a teammate feels even more rewarding.

Keep reading below.

The Shift

There’s something different about being on the other side. When you earn a commission, it’s about your individual effort paying off. When you pay one out, it reflects something bigger. It reflects our collective effort and success in legal and sales placements.

Team Results

This isn’t just about one person hitting their numbers.

It’s about:

• Working together toward shared goals
• Celebrating wins as a team
• Building something that creates opportunities for others

Stoked to be part of a team that drives results.

Conclusion

Moving from earning commissions to paying them out marks a real shift in perspective. It’s not just about personal achievement anymore. It’s about creating an environment where everyone can succeed and be rewarded for their hard work.

When your team wins, you win. And that feeling of collective success and being able to reward the people who helped build it is what makes the journey worthwhile.

Growing the business has also meant expanding my network. I recently wrote about that experience in I Joined A Networking Group.

Follow me on LinkedIn for more life updates like this!

Inspired by a clip of Brian Cranston offering advice for actors going on auditions, there’s a powerful reframe we can all use:

Don’t try to get a job. Focus instead on presenting what you do. The decision on who might get the job is out of your control.

Here’s three ways to look at it.

As a Recruiter

When presenting candidates, you will not be present in the final interview and you won’t make the decision on hiring. With that being said, you should view your mission as matching talent with opportunity.

Instead, what you can focus on is finding and presenting the best people.

As a Candidate

If you’re interviewing, you’re also not controlling the selection process. And if you’re focused on the goal of getting a job, you’re focused on the wrong end of the balloon.

Instead, focus on:

• Presenting your best self
• Your interpretation of the job
• Doing your research
• Asking questions related to the selection process and the role

As an Employer

If you’re focused on finding the right candidate, you’re missing a big part of it. What you should focus on instead is your selection process.

Ask yourself:

• Are you making it too complicated?
• Are you filtering out great people as a result, either by omission or by mistake?

Conclusion

The most important tip about interviewing, whether you’re a candidate, an employer, or a recruiter, is focus on your area of control. Stop worrying about outcomes you can’t influence. Instead, put your energy into what you can actually do well.

When you shift your focus from getting the job to presenting your best work, from finding the perfect candidate to building a better process, or from making the hire to matching the right talent with opportunity, the rest will follow. Control what you can control, and let the results take care of themselves.

Enjoyed reading this? read more on my blog.