It’s hard to imagine how different life would be without the intuition, vision and passion of a Steve Jobs.

I came home late last night to read about his passing on an instrument he helped define and mold into our everyday lives. You don’t have to own a MAC, an iPod, iPhone or an iPad to realize the impact Steve Jobs has made. A simple computer user will do just fine. It’s something most of us take for granted these days. Something my kids have never known life without. Something that I personally enjoy working on and occasionally get lost in.

There were enough “computer geeks” around back in the 70′s with vision like a Steve Jobs to make the personal computer revolution happen, but technology and computers just wouldn’t look the same without this man. Fast forward to today with products like the iPad, iPhone and iPod and you see his vision still impacting our lives decades later. What’s so amazing about the products and technology he helped create is that they all worked flawlessly.

His first authorized biography is scheduled to be published by Simon & Schuster next month. It’s a book I’m certainly going to read because I love stories like his. I love passion and insight like his. A guy who went against the grain, against the social norms, and against what most told him couldn’t be done – but ended up doing it anyway because unlike everyone else, he believed he could.

You don’t have to own or even use any of his products to appreciate his vision or his passion. All you have to really be is a dreamer.

Any time I get some jerk who thinks they know better than I do, telling me what I should invest my money or my time in, it’s a man like Steve Jobs that provides all the proof I need to keep going. Nor do I get caught up in my mistakes or failures when attempting to achieve a desired result.

Here’s a profound quote from Steve I found on CNN while reading last night.

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future,” he told Stanford University graduates during a commencement speech in 2005. “You have to trust in something: your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.”

Time and time again, I see people digging up the past trying to fit their perception into the present, and frankly – it just doesn’t work. You can only live in the present, and you can only act on something NOW. Now is all there is. You can’t pick up that phone yesterday. You can’t make that sale tomorrow. You can only do it now. Don’t worry about how it will all work out. It will work out exactly the way it should.

As a student of business and personal development, I’ve understood this quote for many years. It may not have been in these exact words, but the idea is the same.

Before I go, here’s another one from the same article that I just loved.

“If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on.”

Truer words have never been spoken. You may never reach the level of success or the impact that a Steve Jobs has had in this world – but you’ll never be happier and more fulfilled if you never settle for what others may tell you to do.

I may not be a MAC Head like some others. But I can still appreciate their passion and love for this man and how he’s impacted an entire industry. Not only can I appreciate his passion, but I understand why his vision was the keystone to his rise and success.

It’s what provided the tools we have today, and why Steve Jobs has changed the world.

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

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Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

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TSO #588629

One of the things that I absolutely love about MLM is a genuine desire to learn and grow.

Since my introduction into this industry, I’ve been exposed to more author’s, speakers, and mentors than I can shake a stick at. Some, like Dale Carnegie, Brian Tracy, and Earl Nightingale were in my library long before MLM. Since my introduction into MLM however, I’ve been introduced to more great – wealthy – inspirational minds in the last six years than all my prior years combined.

A new book I was introduced to last week – provided a number of amazing revelations I wanted to share with you.

The author is Robert Shemin and he’s pictured here on the cover of his New York Times Best Seller “How Come THAT Idiot’s Rich and I’m Not?”

Just the title alone makes you want to read this thing. (It’s brilliant!) I don’t know about you, but I’ve known my fair share of “idiot’s” in my day. The vast majority are miserable and broke, and not actually happy and rich however. But I get the gist of what Shemin is trying to convey here, because there was a time when I looked at some rich people and thought, “What do they have that I don’t?”

What I found out, in other books and from speakers like Shemin was there was plenty I didn’t have in regards to mindset and attitude. It wasn’t until I got involved with MLM that I really began to study and eventually understand what it takes to be successful in business. Sure, I made plenty of mistakes. I also had my share of so called “failures”. Each mistake or failure turned into valuable learning experiences that changed my thinking and my actions. Washing away all the crap that cluttered my mind and kept me from taking the proper action to attain success. It took a number of years, but I eventually replaced enough beliefs and actions with powerful thoughts and valuable tools that I now own and operate a number of businesses that has me well on my way to the type of lifestyle and net worth I desire.

Shemin’s book is centered on real estate. That’s his area of expertise. But true to that vast majority of smart, successful business minds that I’ve read both from and about – most support and promote MLM as a viable business model to get involved with. (Especially as a model for getting started in business.) The level of support and tools found in MLM far exceed anything else I’ve seen in the business world.

Shemin’s no different – but with a very nice promotion of a very specific MLM and industry.

Now I know you all don’t have this book handy, and I’m not going to bombard you with what the entire book says. (Besides, it’s mostly about real estate and not MLM.) But there’s one page that I’d like to highlight, because it’s a real eye opener.

For anyone who wants to check out the page for themselves, you can on Google Books. (Here’s the link to the Page 101) I also wanted to use this link just so there’s no doubt about what was printed in this New York Times Best Seller.

Becoming a travel agent is simple. I signed up for something called Your Travel Business, or YTB, and presto! I became a travel agent. You can too. Just go to my special site, www.ytb.com/robertshemin, and sign up. Now you’re a Rich Idiot, too.

So book that trip and live rich now. By the way, I should tell you that when you sign up, I get benefits for introducing you. That makes me an even bigger Rich Idiot. But wait – you’ll get the same added goodies when you share your travel agent site with your friends and family. Remember, Rich Idiots want others to be rich, too!

Imagine that? Here’s someone who’s already rich – promoting YTB as a great way to get rich yourself. No special training involved – no requirements or classes. Just sign up and start telling your friends and family.

Now I know this kind of promotion drives the travel professional’s nuts. (Makes the hair on the back of their neck stand up with disgust and anger.) What these travel professionals have never really grasped is that travel isn’t rocket science. In fact it’s so simple that 4 of the Top 10 travel agencies today are do it yourself type agencies. (Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, and Priceline.) If the average person can book their own hotel, cruise, and airline ticket – there’s no reason why someone like you and I can’t sign up and point people to your own site.

Also note, there’s full disclosure here. Robert makes it very clear that he benefits from introducing his readers. Broke Idiot’s call that “profiting” – as if there’s something wrong with making a profit in business. For anyone who takes issue with Robert, me, or anyone else making a profit from introducing others about all I can respond with is – “Duh?!”

In other words, profits are a major component in owning and operating any successful business. Just because it has “MLM” attached to it – doesn’t make it any different. It’s business.

Moving on – and you’re going to love this.

At most resorts or hotels, there are better rooms and bigger rooms with more interesting views, concierge floors with special services, and even luxury suits. When checking in, simply ask if you could be upgraded. Here’s how I empower the staff. I say, “If anyone can make this happen, I know it’s you.” Then I offer them a gift (I often carry chocolates with me), not to bribe them but to brighten their day. You’ll be surprised how often a hotel will oblige. Presto! You’ve just become a Rich Idiot for the duration of your stay!

Now wait just a cotton picken’ minute here! You mean to tell me after all these years that all I really needed was a box of chocolates? What about the all-powerful and necessary IATAN that I’ve been whacked over the head with more times than I can count? Here – I’ve been soooo concerned because I’ve been told by so called industry “experts” that IATAN was the be all and end all for upgrades!

What a rip! ;-P

Truth is guys. I’ve really only used my CLIA once way back when for a trip to Sandenstin for a FAM. Other FAM’s and Seminars at Sea were offered via YTB without any such requirement. Likewise, I’ve never owned an IATAN because contrary to what’s been said about YTB and IATAN, there’s no possible way YTB could actually “sell” their IATAN to a third party. There’s only one way to attain that credential, and that’s earning it from IATAN directly with proof of $5000 in commissioned sales. By the time I was able to earn mine directly, they pulled the plug with this nonsense YTB was selling the card.

All these years, all I’ve really needed was a smile and the guts to simply ask for an upgrade. If it was available, I usually got one.

If not, here’s the next tip that I’ve also done.

Here’s one thing I do at least once a year. I put together a group of my friends for a trip or a cruise. This vacation strategy also works very well for school groups, churches, and civic groups. If enough people participate, the airline, the hotel, the resort, or the cruise ship will often give me my trip for free. Not only do I get a fantastic vacation, but I get to spend it with all my friends and I get it for free – just for having the idea and putting it together. By the way, Rich Idiots take a portion of the price of the ticket they would have paid for but didn’t and donate the money to a worthy cause.

Soon after my trip to Sandestin, Royal Caribbean launched Freedom of the Seas. I really wanted to get on this ship but there was just no way RCL was going to kick some full paying customer off this ship just to put me and my family on the ship for a fraction of the cost.

So I did what other Rich Idiot’s do and got a small group of eight of us together. Granted, the group was so small at the time that there wasn’t any “freebie” for us, but because everyone booked at full price, yours truly did earn over $1000 in commission to recoup some of the cost. In addition, when I got back I posted pictures and wrote a really nice review of our experience.

Note: no lime green t-shirts were required with “I got here free, ask me how”. No shenanigans about recruiting everyone on board. Instead, before RCL pulled their little stunt, several people saw our photos or review, and booked full fair cruises with us on BandBVacations.com earning somewhere in the neighborhood of $13 million in the first nine months of 2007.

And Royal Caribbean is demanding that we change our tune in order to have the “privilege” to sell a cruise with thier company? What the hell for?

Makes you wonder who the Idiot is don’t it?

It’s entirely up to you which “Idiot” you want to be. You can be rich – or you could really goofy and be broke. My experience with both (or at least attaining wealth and net worth) is it’s much easier and more fun being rich rather than broke.

Broke as we’ve seen time and time again, leaves you angry and miserable.

Being rich however, takes all those people who want to call you an idiot and makes it incredibly easy to just flick them off like flies. ;-P

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

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TSO #588629

I love this time of year. Of course here in Atlanta everything outside turns this lime green color from all the pollen in the air. I’ve been living here since 1992 and still not use to seeing such thick pollen you actually see it on everything.

It’s a big week this week and I’ll be taking some time off, but still wanted to write something this week.

Today happens to be my birthday, and I’m hoping that nobody catches on that I’ve been celebrating 29 for who knows how long. We’ll do our traditional Publix birthday cake (a birthday isn’t a birthday without a Publix birthday cake!) and head on over to Provino’s Italian Restaurant for dinner tonight with the family where your birthday dinner is free! (Whoo Hooo!)

The kids also have the week off for Spring Break and we have some special events planned with them. Other than storms coming in Tuesday night the weather should be absolutely perfect this week!

The kids also want to ride around this week in “the coolest car ever”. We have a new (used) convertible as part of the family. A Chrysler Sebring JXi, which is just the ticket after a rough couple of weeks with only one car. Yours truly totaled our 300M a couple weeks ago after plowing into a deer in the middle of I-85.

Ideally, we were going after a hybrid and that’s still in the cards, just at a later date. We’ll tackle a new hybrid later this year when the budget allows for it and the down payment is where we want it. The leading candidate right now is the Ford Escape Hybrid, which we owned once before. (Although a hybrid wasn’t even an option back then.)

And we can’t forget that it’s Masters Week. Won’t be going to a practice round or Tournament Round this year and I’m due. Still have the connections – but like the last couple of years, it sneaks up on me. Practice rounds to me are the way to see this course. Just more laid back and you don’t have to worry about missing “the shot” while watching in Hi-Def at home. I’ll never forget the first year I went probably 10 years ago now. Augusta National is absolutely pristine and hallowed ground. Once you’ve been there, it changes the entire view of the course on television.

All Masters shirts are pressed and ready to be worn this week. (The only time of year I really ever wear them.)

Before I close, I wanted to add a special congratulations to Melissa Boston, YTB/ZamZuu’s newest Circle of Champions Director. For those of you in YTB – you know what that means in regards to earnings. We’ve known Melissa for some time and she’s one of the most dynamic speakers and presenters we’ve seen in any company, let alone YTB. Smart business woman too. She surrounded herself with other smart business minds and worked steadily to achieve her goal. We couldn’t be happier for her.

We couldn’t be happier for the company either. By Melissa reaching the Circle of Champions at this point in time, it’s a clear sign that the the company is growing and could signal other top level Directors who will move into this level of achievement. (That should rattle some cages, huh?)

Here’s one last point before heading out to enjoy my week.

Name me one other business model where a Representative of the company can earn more than the CEO, Founders or other Top Executives? Name me one other company where someone can earn more than the people above them period. Doesn’t happen in any other business than Network Marketing folks. You can talk all you want about the theories you’ve heard, average everything out like some Socialist society all you want. The reality of it is, folks like Melissa Boston do happen. That’s real world – not some trumped up fear mongering line of BS.

But alas – much like the fact that there has never been a single example of any MLM or Networking company running out of “suckers” – this myth about all the poeple at the top making all the money will undoubtedly live on. You have a choice you know. You could follow dumb schmucks who’ve never had an ounce of experience in the industry – or take a tip or two from people who not only know the truth, but aren’t intimidated one bit by it.

Enjoy your week! (We will!)

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

TSO #588629

I’m not a big NBA fan. Hardly watch any basketball to be honest. The closest I ever got to watching the NBA as a kid was “The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh“.

Like most, I was aware of an NBA move this past off season. LeBron James left Cleveland in favor of Miami in the biggest free agency move the league might have ever seen. The hope for LaBron would be a title with better talent surrounding him in Miami. He tried it with Cleveland the last seven years, without much luck, so LeBrone figured a change was in order.

The move really upset everyone in Cleveland – including majority owner of the Cavaliers, Dan Gilbert who called the move “selfishness and cowardly betrayal” in an open letter to fans. Proclaiming that the Cleveland curse will follow LaBron and “until he does ‘right’ by Cleveland and Ohio, James (and the town where he plays) will unfortunately own this dreaded spell and bad karma.”

Which proves you can still be petty AND very rich at the same time.

The “open letter” gave Cavalier fans permission to be just as petty and vocal towards LaBron all summer long – who hadn’t made a shot for Miami until last Tuesday night in the season opener – and lost.

This wasn’t an entire team that left. Not like the Browns who moved to Baltimore in 1995 – which by the way also ended one of the biggest rivalries in the NFL at the time. Believe it or not, Steelers fans also felt the impact of that move – and most felt a partial loss with Cleveland in a Monday Night Football game in Pittsburgh against Cleveland just after the announcement was made.

LaBron is a single player – a one man show if you will. True he was considered the keystone of the franchise to build around with other talent to capture a title and a home town boy to boot – but there’s no “I” in “Team”. Still, LeBron became the poster child in Cleveland for everything that’s wrong in professional sports. I didn’t realize how bizarre and emotional it was until I started to research for this article. You’d think the guy joined a Travel MLM based on some of the comments and emotion surrounding this move.

LaBron, in one of the most interesting commercials I’ve seen in a long time finally came up with a response all the bantering this summer. This isn’t about what LeBron James has done, or hasn’t done. This is about the difference between the expectations others may have of him versus the expectations he has of himself.

His answer is a question – “What Should I Do”? As if to ask critics and detractors who have taken to verbal abuse and burning his jersey directly. Pretending as if anyone else knows what’s best for the NBA star better than he does. It is after all his life – his goals – and his decision.

Too many times, we get hung up on the opinions of others. We allow it to stand in the way of what motivates us or what we believe would make us happy or successful. If you’re able to step outside the emotional baggage that others carry into the equation and look inward to your own core beliefs – none of the screaming going on outside really matters.

I love this commercial because it’s exactly how I feel towards the critics and cynics who are under the illusion that their opinions and perceptions actually matter when it comes to what I do and who I choose to associate with.

Like T. Harv Ecker taught me so many years ago in three short words – “Thanks for sharing”.

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

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TSO #588629

When I first got into this industry back in 2005 I spent a lot of time in forums reading and posting with others in the industry. I learned the right way to do things – and saw plenty of examples of what NOT to do in this industry.

One of the forum posters who I still admire greatly was a gentleman named Tony Rush.

I think I connected with Tony for a couple of reasons. Rather than being emotionally attached, he was always logical and always very articulate in the way he communicated. He’s always been very open, honest, and unafraid to express his beliefs and opinions – which ironically brought out some very nasty critics of both him and the company he worked with at the time.

That’s were I felt the strongest connection with Tony. Not because he had critics – but because he simply simply didn’t care what anyone else thought. He’s strong enough in his own convictions and beliefs that critical views and opinions are always the property of the one voicing them. (As it should be.)

I’ve kept up with Tony over the years and still get communications from him as a subscriber on his list. He’s always been one of my favorite writers and I enjoy his insight and perspective.

He sent me an e-mail the other day that spoke volumes concerning wealth consciousness.

Yes, it’s a long e-mail – but it’s also a long weekend – and there should be plenty of time to read it. And just like he said before he got going about this subject – the smart ones will take the time to read the entire thing.

If it speaks to you – and you want to find out more about what Tony is doing here’s his website: www.best7minutes.com. I’m not working with him, nor do I know what it’s all about. I happen to be very happy with my direction and company, but I can still appreciate great wisdom and insight.

Enjoy!

~~~

I love movies. All kinds.

But, did you know that there are all kinds of hidden messages in today’s entertainment that will keep you broke??

Don’t believe it?  Check this out:

Think of the most common “good guys” in popular movies:  Harry Potter, Clark Kent (Superman), Peter Parker (Spider-Man),

What do they all have in common?

– they’re all orphans
— they’re all poor and broke
— they’re constantly having to deal with the agendas of wealthy people

Then, think about the bad guys like Lex Luthor, Draco Malfoy, Normon Osborn (that bad guy from Spider-Man), Parker Selfridge, (the bad guy in AVATAR):

– they’re all billionaires
— they’re all malicious, mean, nasty people
— they have no regard for anything but their own money and power

Sneaky stuff, huh?

And that’s not the half of it.  Most of these blockbuster films have hidden messages that you pick up on and carry into your real life.

Things like:

– you cannot be wealthy and be spiritual
— if you focus on having more money, you’ll compromise your values
— being poor allows you to have more spirituality and love

Guys, this stuff is insidious.

Think about the movie TITANIC.  Another Jim Cameron movie full of hidden messages that are designed to appeal to the “mass thinking” of the herd.

You’ve got the hero who is….you guessed it….broke as a convict. The babe in the movie is dating a guy who’s richer than God and he is …..that’s right again…..completely immoral.

EVERY single wealthy person in the movie is shallow, superficial and completely without any spirituality at all.

And, of course, all the poor people are having a good ol’ time, stomping around in the manure down in 3rd class, and they’ve got wonderful relationships and they’re all great parents, etc.

You see it coming, don’t you?

That’s right:  the “journey” of the movie involves the girl (“Rose”) who has to turn her back on prosperity and abundance and choose a life of squalor and poverty.  This is the only way for her to truly be happy.

Of course it’s all BS but that’s Hollywood for you.

By the way, did you get that ending?  Rose is now about 100 years old and she’s been mooching off her daughter who’s working hard to raise a family AND take care of Rose.

And in the final scene, we find out that Rose has been hanging on to this huge diamond ever since the Titanic sunk….this thing is worth tons of money….and instead of using it to help her family or her friends or her daughter or herself…..

….the old bat throws it into the ocean!

Oh, man!  How can anyone see this ending to be about anything other than “Throw away money….it brings you nothing but pain.”

What a crock.

And yet this movie made MILLIONS of dollars.  How’s that for irony?  The filmmakers made millions of dollars teaching you that you should be poor!

So, why am I talking about this?

Simple:  most people are sabotaging themselves and don’t even know it.

They want to be wealthy….but they feel guilty about wanting it.

They want to make money but they think that having lots of money will mean they’re not going to be a good parent, spouse or person.

They want to have a life of luxury and abundance….but they think that achieving it will make it harder to be a spiritual person.

And -  snap — just like that…..you’ve got yourself a nice new recipe for staying stuck in life.

Seriously:  you need to understand this if you want to create a life of freedom.

If you have any of these beliefs, you need to get clear of them NOW:

– money is the root of all evil
— rich people are evil
— rich people get rich at the expense of the poor
— it’s hard to make money
— making money takes hard work
— money is the opposite of spirituality
— money doesn’t grow on trees
— if you want to be wealthy, you’ll have to lie, cheat and steal

Think about it.  If you have ANY of those beliefs, do you really think your subconscious mind is going to let you become wealthy?

No way.

You’ll sabotage yourself faster than you can imagine.

How will you do it?

Oh, you’ll come up with a way.  You’re good at it.

A master.

Next time you spot a juicy opportunity to make money you’ll say dumb stuff like “that’s too good to be true”.

Or next time you someone offers you a way to earn thousands of dollars per week….you’ll say, “That won’t last.  Real wealth is supposed to take a long time to build.”

Or, you’ll turn into the World’s Most Analytical Person and say, “Well, I need to think about it”….and you’ll pretend to think about things for a few days or weeks.  Heck, people have decided to run for PRESIDENT in less time than it will take for you to figure out if you’re ready to get started in a lucrative home business!

Or you’ll say, “Well, I need to understand every single detail before I move forward”.  Which is a lot like saying you won’t start on a vacation trip until all the traffic lights are green at the same time.

I don’t know how you’ll do it.

But you will.

Know how I know?

Because I did this for years.  And so have you.  You’re already doing it.

Seriously.  Everytime I got close to actually making some decent money, I’d somehow manage to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory……and do something to screw it up or postpone it or to just outright reject it.

And I guarantee that you’re doing the same thing to some degree.

Here’s how I know:

Are you rich right now?

If not,…..why not?

Answer that.

Got your answer?

Well, try this on:  whatever reason you gave for why you’re not wealthy is what’s running your life right now.

In fact, whatever answer you have is actually not even real.  But it’s the stand that you’re taking against being wealthy.

If that were not true, you’d be wealthy already.

Success is a choice.

It’s not difficult.
It’s not hard.
It doesn’t take years of hard work. And it has nothing to do with compromising your morals or values or integrity or any of those things.

But, if you don’t change what you believe is possible about making money……then you’ll always be in about the same situation you’re in now.

Think about it:  don’t you find that your bank account never gets above a certain number for long…..?  And then something comes along to knock it back down again?

Self-sabotage.

Believe me or not.  But this may be the most important financial message that you ever read.

Because if you don’t do something about developing a prosperity consciousness…….

…..well, things will always involve about the same amount of struggle and work and scrambling around to make the ends meet.

What’s the solution?

Here are a few tips:

1.  Start hanging around people who are living the kind of life you want to live.  Lifestyle.  Leisure.  Income.  Whatever.

2.  Start a personal development program.  If your life sucks, it’s because you suck.  It’s not the government, the economy or your job.  It’s you. Start working harder on yourself than you do on your job and you’ll find out that the solution has been with you all along.

3.  Start a business that actually pays you what you’re worth.  Forget working 40 hours a week.  Find something you’re passionate about – or find a solution to a problem and start helping people solve it. Those desires you had as a kid were divined in you for a REASON. It’s time to go after it.

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

TSO #588629

Some time ago I wrote about an idea given to me called “The Happy File“. I created this file for special e-mails as a suggestion from one of my subscribers as a way to save all the compliments and sincere gratitude I receive to say “Thank You” for what I do. Every time I receive a thank you, a compliment, or gratitude as a direct result of something I’ve done for them – it’s moved to this file for safe keeping.

Yesterday morning, I got a “forward” from one of my subscribers that originated from one of the best (actually he’s not “one” – he “is” the best) internet markets and copywriters in the world. The marketer I’m talking about is a good ol’ boy from Macon, GA who is now living the good life in San Diego, CA named Frank Kern.

Frank is one of the most “real” marketers I’ve ever subscribing too. I fell in love with his honestly and style from the very beginning and he’s one of those guys that knows how to communicate to the masses – but makes you feel like you’re the only person in the world he’s writing too.

Be warned however, Frank’s personality isn’t for everyone because he’s so brutally honest and he pokes a bit of fun at like – stupid people.

Hey – kind of like me!

Anyway, my subscriber (who I don’t think even knows I also subscribe to Frank’s database) sent me Frank’s e-mail with a message that I exhibit “Total Coolness”.

Now let me explain…

“Total Coolness” isn’t about struttin’ your stuff around and thinking your all that. Total Coolness according to Frank is:

“never underestimating the power of being totally cool to people and doing good things for others. I’m not talking about being manipulative and lame. I’m talking about just being a genuinely nice person who actually gives a damn.”

More from Frank’s blog:

Picture this:

You’ve got a guy who subscribes to your “Cat Juggling” list. He wants info on how to get started in the exciting career of Cat Juggling. (The prestige!) So you send him a few videos about Cat Jugging and he digs them.

He still doesn’t buy your stuff, but he’s stoked you gave him the free videos.

Then you send him a pdf outlining a great step-by-step blueprint for really making it big in the exciting world of cat juggling.

Once again, he’s stoked. Loves it. Thinks you’re awesome.

You keep this up for another six months. All the way up until Christmas.

The guy gets his Christmas bonus check and the first thing he does is run home to your site and buys your Super Deluxe Triple Diamond Level Cat Juggling Bootcamp-In-A-Box!

It’s the most expensive thing you sell, and here’s this guy who joined your list AGES ago …happily forking over full price for it.

Why?

Because you were consistently cool to him. You were actually nice. You actually helped the guy out. A LOT.

That my friend is what you get from “Total Coolness”.

Over the last two and a half years, I’ve gotten more comments about how nice and unselfish I am for giving of my time, my knowledge, and my insight into YTB because of our Newsletter. There’s a TON of crap out there on the internet. (Big surprise there I know.) I not only write about news and events – I document it with third party links to add validity and substance. This thing is LOADED with information. If you’ve gone through my “7 Day Quick Start Guide” you’ve also seen all the free stuff I hook you up with. Free Video’s, Free CD’s, Free Seminar’s and Webniars, free e-books, and a free app that helps you hunt down the best bargains on the Internet.

Just last week, subscribers were hooked up with over a dozen free travel training webinars alone. They’re by far the most popular “clicks” in every newsletter that goes out.

When it’s time to buy, they buy because I don’t offer a bunch of junk. The trust is already there, the value is there, and when the solution shows up – they find a way to buy. It may be 6 months down the road, but they’re reminded of who turned them on, and the loyalty is unbelievable.

Don’t take my word for it – take it from a guy who’s made millions doing the exact same thing – Frank Kern.

Now Frank’s not a Network Marketer. He’s a copywriter and internet marketer. I’ve used a couple of his formulas however and they work like magic. (If nothing else – they work far better than the spamming I see from “network marketers” which is so lame and totally uncool.)

Frank’s doing – you guessed it – a free series this summer on marketing. All you have to do is cough up an e-mail address, and he’ll send you the first free report right away.

Frank’s irreverent, he’s bold, he’s funny and he’s filthy stinkin’ rich.

Oh…and one word of caution: Frank isn’t for the faint of heart – only serious marketers need subscribe.

If a redneck (and he talks like one too) from Macon, Georgia can do it – so can you!

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

TSO #588629

I always knew this day would come. I had no idea when or how it would evolve, but I knew it was coming. J. Lloyd Tomer, or “Coach” has handed over his Chairman of the Board title to his son, Scott Tomer so he can take some time to enjoy his “4th Quarter”. Coach will do what is true to his heart and what he does best: Mentoring the sales force through Coach’s Corner while increasing his efforts to the Company’s philanthropic division, Passport to Giving.

That’s who Coach is. Those of use who know him, know how much he’s given back to the community. He’s been a teacher and mentor most of his life and it’s fitting that he moves into this phase of his life during his 4th Quarter. News of Coach handing over the reigns to his son Scott Tomer as Chairman of the Board and Robert Van Patten being names as CEO of YTB International came out today in an 8K filing.

After looking over some of the articles and news documented here, this move has been in the works for some time. We’ll review the changes and moves the last six months for you below to help you understand how well planned and thought out the new changes are. However, this has been something that was understood by Coach, Scott and Kim from the very beginning when YTB was founded back in February of 2001.

With Coach at the age of 75 and new book finally out, a Co-CEO who’s had 6 months to evaluate the company and it’s assets, the new Board not only in place, but with time under their belt so everyone could become acclimated, the timing was right to pull the trigger on this. The new changes also move key personnel into positions and talents they are best suited for.

From what I know of all the executives involved in the new changes announced today, virtually nothing about YTB as we know as TSO’s or Reps here in the field will change. Scott, Coach and Kim will still be around doing what they do best as Reps. (In fact, Coach will still be here in Atlanta in early November.) However, with YTB being publicly traded, YTB International now has a Chief Executive Officer and President in Robert Van Patten, who not only understands Wall Street, but from what I know, thrives in this atmosphere.

Back in April I wrote about Robert Van Patten, and actually had a chance to briefly thank him for all he’s done for the company while at this years Convention. Mr. Van Patten brings over 25 years of senior management experience to YTBI and was previously President of IMC Agribusiness, an $800 million dollar division of IMC Global. IMC was also listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The company now has someone with the experience and temperament to deal the day to day issues of running a publicly traded company. While few have laid claims to the demise of YTB, with predictions of bankruptcy, we owe a tremendous amount of thanks and gratitude to Scott and Coach for stepping aside to allow Mr. Van Patten to make the hard choices and decisions he has over the last 6 months, but also owe the same to Mr. Van Patten for insight to make these difficult choices.

New Board Members Thomas Baker, Jack Humes, and Patricia Williams who were appointed the YTB’s Board of Directors in June also have vast experience in finance, accounting, entrepreneurial business development, and legal services to corporations and governmental bodies. Their new insight and experience brought to our Board also played a key role in the changes made to YTB.

To Coach, Scott and Kim’s credit – They not only understood that Mr. Van Patten was best suited for this new role – they allowed him to execute the changes necessary.

Make no mistake however. The move announced today by YTB and it’s Board we’re carefully thought out and planned by Coach, Scott, and Kim. If they didn’t believe this was the right move for the field and the company as whole, none of this would have happened. They’re Reps at heart. After a fight and successful settlement in place in California which not enabled YTB to continue doing business in the state, but kept our compensation plan in tact, there’s sufficient prove the Founders have held true to their heart.

By handing over the reigns to Mr. Van Patten to deal with the day to day operations of the company as CEO and President of YTB International, Scott moves over as CEO of YTB Marketing, and Coach is completely freed up to do what he loves – and that’s being with the field.

Key people in key positions – doing what they do best. What a concept!

It will be nice to have both Coach and Scott back here in the field. Coach will not only be doing a book tour with his new book “The Fourth Quarter”, but also has plans for 12 Day Tour to Israel and Jordan in April of 2010. (Check your Travel Portal for more details.)

All in all, it’s a great move for YTB, especially with the way this all this developed. This isn’t some band aid or hasty move that didn’t have input or thought from everyone involved. Not with the Board of Directors YTB now has. Gone are the “good ol’ boys” and “buddy system” and in with some very promising and talented executives. 

Congratulations to Scott, Kim and especially Coach for making this choice, and thank you for your ability to let go. It shows this Rep and TSO you really do care and have my best interest at heart.

And Coach – enjoy your 4th Quarter. ;-P

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro Travel Agent / Networker Phone: 678.458.5812

Book Your Travel & Vacations With

TSO #588629