Inland Business Catalyst 20 Under 40 Issue #60

Maximizing Referrals

How to Become a Reporter’s Best Friend

Jake Krummel

Downtown Market Manager for Numerica Credit Union

FALL 2014 #60 • $2.95 (Display Until Dec 15, 2014)

www.ibcatalyst.com

Contents

Vol. 10 Issue 4 Fall 2014

ninth annual On the cover

20 Under 40 Award winner Jake Krummel, downtown market manager for Numerica Credit Union.

Photo by Diane Maehl

departments Editor’s letter The BOMB Travel like a pro winedentity Business news clips

Feature

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23 9th Annual 20 Under 40 Awards

It’s “the most wonderful time of the year” for the team at Inland Business Catalyst as we share our Top 20 rising stars in local business under the age of 40. Read on to fuel your professional jets with some of the highest octane inspiration out there.

18 Featured Construction Project

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A new building at Sunshine Health Facilities in the City of Spokane Valley will see completion this October. It's setting precedent as the first statelicensed health facility in the state and the nation, to use Passive House design—a German technology used to create airtight buildings.

Business Newcomer Having grown up in the Seattle area, when Alison Carl White accepted the position of executive director of the new nonprofit Better Health Together, she agreed to a new life on the eastern side of her home state. She and her partner Erik, with their two children, son Barret and daughter Claire moved to Spokane in mid-June.

16 PR Tips: How to be a Reporter’s Favorite News Source

Getting a call from a journalist who wants to quote you as an expert, review your book or product, or invite you to write an exclusive article for a publication, is a major coup. It means that your marketing efforts are paying off. Here are some tips to make sure you make the most of the opportunity if you are fortunate enough to have it arise.

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through the trenches Mike Wilson has been shining shoes and brightening lives for 35 years. He has his own business, Mike's Mobile Shoe and Leather Care Service, located on the skywalk level in the Paulsen Building.

fall 2014

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Editor's

Photo by Kelly Tareski

Letter

Extraordinary

in Spokane

Y

ou never know where life will take you, and my dreams for an extraordinary life began long before I took my first jobs working as a deli clerk and a nurse’s assistant in a small town on the Palouse.

After graduating from Colfax High School, I charged out into the world to see where life might take me. I zipped off to the east coast, breathing in the big city air where the opportunities were vast and lucrative, where the pace and lifestyle made it clear that I needed to take my life where I wanted it to go.

While on the train to New York City about a year later, I read a headline story of a highly regarded business and family man. He was also the respected treasurer of a popular synagogue in Connecticut, until the pressures of his shiny, high powered, fast-paced life drove him to make unauthorized loans to himself. He was my employer. This was the same man that had inspired me to pursue a larger than life existence. As he drove me to the airport just days before his trial was to begin, he apologized to me for his actions. “Don’t be ruled or driven by what you perceive to be an extraordinary life, Stephanie,” he said. “Reach for the stars while staying close to home, as in

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Vol. 10 Issue 4 Fall 2014

your heart. If you can do that, then you’ll experience an extraordinary life.”

I brought my new perspective and goals to Spokane, a city I had enjoyed visiting throughout my childhood, where opportunity and potential for success also support a deeper, truer connection to friends and family. Spokane has taught me that extraordinary lives are lived anywhere people are open to them, anytime people are driven to turn normal, ordinary circumstances into something special.

Inland Business Catalyst first grabbed my attention back in July of 2006. It was the issue debut of the 20 Under 40 annual feature. It was inspiring to read about young movers and shakers who represented 20 great reasons to be proud of Spokane’s progress and future direction.

The 20 stories shared in that issue helped validate my decision to land in Spokane.

As a freelance business writer, I began contributing to Catalyst soon after that issue. My career path has woven me in and out magazines and other industries since then. I have been on all sides of business, from employee to employer, from volunteer to executive leader. I was thrilled to be named one of 2010’s 20 Under 40 professionals. And it seemed quite appropriate that my first issue as Catalyst’s editor, three years ago, was the 20 Under 40 issue.

Shining a light on ordinary lives lived extraordinarily through ambitious business practices, while valuing connections to friends, family, and the community, and to celebrate the struggle and the glory along the way, is a task I manage with pride. We have a lot to be proud of in our fine city, and I am honored to share 20 reasons with you here. I hope the inspiration bug bites you in the same fashion it has bitten me.

Cheers to business,

Editor Stephanie Regalado editor@ibcatalyst.com

Creative Director/ lead graphics Kristi Somday kristi@spokanecda.com

graphic Designer/ Traffic Manager Camille Martin camille@bozzimedia.com

Photography Don Hamilton Sonya Kassen Diane Maehl James Mangis Ashley Marie Kim Stadler Rick Singer Contributors Darin Burt Ginny Grimsley Dennis Held Cheryl-Anne Millsap Tony Rubleski Renee Sande VP of Sales Cindy Guthrie

cindy@spokanecda.com

Senior Account manager Jeff Richardson jrichardson@spokanecda.com

Account managers Debra Smith debra@bozzimedia.com

Monte Tareski

monte@bozzimedia.com

Terri Borland-McCrea terri@bozzimedia.com

Operations and Finance Manager Kim Morin kim@spokanecda.com

accounts receivable and distribution Theresa Berglund theresa@spokanecda.com

Publisher and CEO Vincent Bozzi vince@spokanecda.com

Co-Publisher Emily Guevarra Bozzi emily@spokanecda.com

Find us on

facebook View our e-magazine ibcatalyst.com

Inland Business Catalyst magazine is published bi-monthly by Bozzi Media.

Stephanie Regalado editor@ibcatalyst.com

104 S. Freya St., Suite #209, Spokane, WA 99202-4866 Phone: 509.533.5350 | Fax: 509.535.3542 All contents © 2014. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Neither Bozzi Media nor Inland Business Catalyst magazine assume responsibility for errors in content, photos or advertisements.

fall 2014

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B MB ✲

business at its best

the

The Adworkz Team

Adworkz develops New Mobile Application

By Stephanie Regalado | Photo by Ashley Marie Photography

A

dworkz, Inc is a Spokanebased technology company that builds web apps, mobile apps, and custom software platforms for businesses locally and across the country. Among their popular products is a software suite for auto dealerships enabling them to easily take service appointments from customers on their website and from a mobile phone, and a web-based tool for businesses to create mobile coupons called Coupon Creator.

Adworkz’s newest product is a recently launched mobile application called Rimento that aims to streamline how people access and manage their

various insurance ID cards and related insurance documents. The free app is available on iTunes via www.Rimento. com and Adworkz plans to release an Android version of the app in the near future.

Rimento makes it easy to keep all of your insurance ID cards and policy documents in one spot. Medical, dental, auto, and property insurance documents aren’t convenient to carry with you, and they are easy to lose or misplace. The Rimento app gives you access to these documents from anywhere, says co-founder and COO Evan Ernst.

After downloading the app, users can

snap photos of their existing ID cards, or they can scan a QR code from a document provided by their insurance agent or benefits administrator to have it added to the app.

“Our goal is to connect with insurance carriers to ultimately deliver policy documents and ID cards that update automatically each year. We would like to eliminate mailing paper ID cards and storing policy documents in a file drawer altogether,” says Ernst.

Adworkz hopes to continue growing their technology offerings by working closely with clients to develop new ways to connect with customers, particularly mobile solutions. fall 2014

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the

Travel Like a Pro New Airline and TSA Restrictions

By Cheryl-Anne Millsap

T

hings may slow down a bit in summer, but in the fall business travel ramps up to full speed again and the weekday earlymorning flights out of Spokane are filled with familiar faces. With that in mind, it’s worth noting there are new airline and TSA restrictions that could impact your trip.

The Shrinking Carry-on New airline carry-on luggage size restrictions from American, Delta and United Airlines went into effect this spring. Don’t be surprised if others follow suit. To avoid having to check your bag, be sure it does not exceed a maximum of 14 inches wide by 22 inches high by 9 inches deep. Although enforcement is still somewhat random, the delay isn’t worth it. I have a friend who has logged hundreds of thousands of miles in the air, mostly using the same carry-on bag, but he was stopped by

Winedentity

D

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o you love wine? What if you were told you could have your own custom label? What if you were told it was affordable? What if you were told it comes from a local company using local wine? The good news is, it’s true. Winedentity offers custom labeled wines right here in Spokane.

Business partners Linda Keturakat and Rachel Pulis combine their passion for wine, business strengths, and creative label design to produce a unique one of a kind product. Using wines from Spokane’s Townshend Cellar, including the muchloved T3 and an exclusive Winedentity Red Blend, they promise to please any palate.

You can choose from dozens of label templates, create your own label or have Winedentity design one just for you. Add your business name or logo and you will have the perfect token of appreciation for your important clients and associates. Add a photo and you have a unique gift for any event.

gate agents in New York and had to check his bag because it was no longer compliant.

Prepare to Power Up When going through the airport security line, there’s always the chance that you’ll be asked to show your cell phone or computer. Now, on some international flights, you may be asked to show that your phone is charged and operating. Powerless or “dead” phones won’t be allowed through security.

The PreCheck Party is Over For those who didn’t go through the application and interview process (or pay the fee) for the TSA PreCheck program but have been getting a free ride thanks to their frequent or “trusted” flyer status, the party may be over. The TSA has announced that it intends to scale back the freebies.

So, if you’ve grown to like the ease of the PreCheck line—leaving your shoes on your feet, no body scanner, no taking out your liquids and being able to leave your computer in the bag—you might want to go ahead and pony up the $85 for a fiveyear pass.

Cheryl-Anne Millsap blogs about travel for Spokesman. com at www.spokesman.com/blogs/homeplanet. She can be reached at catmillsap@gmail.com.

Local Company Creating Custom Wine Labels Next, select the wines you would like and you’ll have your order in just a few days.

Winestein, a fun division of Winedentity, focuses on the education and enjoyment of wine.

Their goal is to simplify the world of wine and to remove the snobbery often associated with it.

Bordeaux blending clinics, a wine and food pairing class, “Cork Dorks with Forks,” and wine themed craft classes offer a hands-on experience. They’re even working on a “How to taste, drink and enjoy wine” clinic.

Winedentity’s new Wine Club offers two bottles a month (reds, whites or both) with a seasonally themed label. Keep one for yourself and give one as a gift. These fun ladies can also be seen driving around town in their vintage yellow Volkswagen bus, lovingly named Lola, planning their next wine adventure.

Visit www.Winedentity.com for more information or call Linda at (509) 230-4586.

Business News Clips CrossFit Expedition Head Coach Gabe West and business partners Andrew and Emily Laughlin opened CrossFit Expedition to share their passion for sports and fitness with Spokane’s South Hill community.

CrossFit, by design, develops broad, general and inclusive fitness and in this way, is unique in the health and wellness industry. Regardless of age or fitness background, CrossFit promises to help you achieve your fitness goals and improve your quality of life. They offer morning, evening and weekend classes to fit any schedule. To learn more, please visit www.crossfitexpedition.com or stop by the box at 2718 E. 57th for your free workout.

Aaron and Jake Roberts Ethos Venture The fabric of Ethos Venture is threaded together with more than 30 years of combined experience in recruiting across the board for all types of positions and companies. Their powerful research tools and extensive network enables them to discover exceptional passive and active candidates for hard-to-fill positions. The Ethos team works tirelessly and passionately toward the greater good for all parties involved, and strive to achieve winning solutions for clients and candidates. The core values of Ethos Venture are founded on commitment, integrity, honesty, human focus, communication, trust and competence.

These principles guide their work on a daily basis and ultimately set Ethos apart. Visit www. ethosventure.com.

The Members Lounge The Members Lounge is the next step in the up and coming cannabis industry in Washington State.

Their 7,000 square foot building, located at 11420 E. Sprague Ave. in Spokane Valley, offers a private cannabis friendly vapor lounge, access to a medical co-op, an event center and a full service restaurant and bar. The Members Lounge offers three membership levels. They offer a variety of entertainment for their members, including game nights, live music, and public awareness seminars.

Memberships are limited and start at $15.00 per month. For more information, call (509) 703-7115 or visit www.thememberslounge.mobi.

Fitz Auto Body While growing up, Scott Fitzgerald’s dad owned an auto body shop that he and his older brother worked at until he graduated from high school. At the age of 32, he purchased Leo’s Body Shop in Airway Heights from his older brother. He had worked for Leo ten years before purchasing the business. After running the business for another ten years, Fitzgerald sold out to a corporation, remaining on as body shop manager for six years. “During that time of management I couldn’t wait to get back into self employment,” he says. “I enjoy working with customers directly and having control of the final product. Those aspects are important to me.”

In April of this year, that dream became a reality. Fitz Auto Body is located at 3106 N. Argonne Road. Fitzgerald and his expert team work with all insurance companies, as well as customers that are not going through an insurance company for work on their vehicle.

“We have all the necessary tools along with the knowledge and skills to produce the best of repairs and refinish possible,” says Fitzgerald.

“We look forward to turning what can be an unfortunate accident into a positive experience.”

Fitz Auto Body can be reached at (509) 4741933 or www.fitzautobody.com.

PokeNLink Online. Interactive. Communities.

How are you engaging your online audience?

Rena McGill and Taylor McGill are the visionaries behind Spokane software company PokeNLink, the easy way to consolidate content, interaction and eCommerce into one affordable marketing platform. According to emarketer. com, the average American spends five hours per day online. People are using that time on social sites, reading content, shopping, and browsing forums. To capture their attention, PokeNLink believes it is imperative for organizations to have a marketing platform to bring them to you.

PokeNLink believes that you need to get back to engaging your audience. When someone visits your website, how will you know who visited? How will you build a relationship with them? How will you grow and monetize that connection? With a PokeNLink Community, you will interact in the same platform in which you market your products and services. Learn more at www.pokenlink.com.

2901 E. Trent Ave., Spokane, WA 99202 fall 2014

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business

Newcomer

Alison Carl White Executive Director of Better Health Together

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By Cheryl-Anne Millsap

H

aving grown up in the Seattle area, when Alison Carl White accepted the position of executive director of the new nonprofit Better Health Together, she agreed to a new life on the eastern side of her home state. She and her partner Erik, with their two children, son Barret (age 8) and daughter Claire (age 6) moved to Spokane in mid-June.

What brought you to Spokane?

I was hired as executive director of a one-year-old nonprofit, Better Health Together. We are part of Empire Health System and our goal is to improve the health of the region. We do that by delivering programs and working with community health workers who are helping vulnerable families.

What was your first impression of Spokane? What were you expecting?

I grew up in the suburbs of Seattle and I already loved this side of the state.

Growing up, we spent lot of time at Lake Chelan and camped all over Eastern Washington. Later we spent some time at Spirit Lake in Idaho. I was already convinced Spokane was the ideal place for us.

I guess I had some of the typical Westside perspective of Spokane, expecting it to be a slightly smaller town than it actually is. But that isn’t the case at all.

There is this unique—in a good way— vibe here. People here are a little more comfortable in their own skins, they’re not trying to be Seattle or any other big city. I really appreciate that. I also expected the community vibe to be more conservative than it actually is. I like the community unity in Spokane. The social sector here seems more aware of where the suffering is and to be able to move things forward much faster than Seattle.

I think the overall commitment to each other feels so much greater here. The inter-dependence is cool. Spokane has held onto some of its small town values, but has the big-city resources to get

things done.

What do you feel you offer to the community of Spokane?

I really hope that I bring the optimism and energy to Spokane that I try to bring to any place, work or personal. I have had a career centered on community building and connecting networks, linking my work and my community. And that’s a big part of how we function as a family: as connectors.

In what ways do you look forward to putting down roots?

We are outdoor folks and huge sports fans. Part of what drew us to this area was that it brought us closer to skiing, fishing, and hiking without driving an hour and a half to get on a trail with a 1,000 other people on it. We are longtime Seattle sports fans with a love of the Mariners and the Seahawks. But we have become Zag and Cougar fans now. I’m so excited about cooking with fruits and vegetables that were grown not more than three miles from my house.

How was your real estate experience here different from Seattle?

We got so lucky. We bought 10 acres in Valleyford and we have this incredible quiet quasi-rural experience just 20 minutes from downtown. It was a massive lifestyle upgrade for two-thirds of what we sold our house for. Now I get to experience a beautiful drive with no traffic.

No traffic! We have a life with none of the "churn" of Seattle. I can process my work on the way to and from work, really think things through, and come home to this incredibly quiet life.

How would you like to introduce yourself to Spokane?

I’m a bit of a spunky mom committed to creating a better community. I’m blessed to do community work and we are raising our kids with gratitude, compassion and a sense of responsibility to give back. That’s what I believe, as a Mom, as a partner, and as a community leader.

Photo by deb j Smith

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Managing

Referrals Proven Ways to Get More Referrals

By Tony Rubleski, Mind Capture Group

L

et’s face it, we live in an “instant everything” world. From microwaves that cook our food, text messages, and same-day shipping we are an impatient society. I find this same parallel when it comes to the topic of referrals. In all of my presentations with audiences when I ask the question, “How many of you like referrals?” every hand in the room immediately goes up.

Here’s why I know everyone likes referrals: it beats cold calling. With this in mind, let me reveal three simple, yet often overlooked, ways to garner more referrals for any business or organization. #1: Ask for referrals daily. Every time we work with or hear from a happy customer we should be thinking, who else can they take me to that I can help? This is just plain common sense. A happy customer, when properly asked, will many times know other people just like them in their circle of influence that they can introduce us to. Yes, the old adage, “birds of a feather, flock together” is a perfect parallel.

The scenario: A client calls and thanks us for the work we’ve done.

Here’s a great example of how to leverage this positive experience, serve more people and ask for more referrals.

Let’s say that we offer insurance services. You can take this strategy, quickly modify it and start using it now: Scenario: “Thank you _____ for the call, I appreciate you and your comments greatly. While I’ve got you for a

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910 N. Washington St, Suite #107 Spokane, WA 99201 quick second, can I ask a quick question? Who are a couple of folks you might introduce me to that you really respect, and that I might be able to help like I did for you?”

Some of you might be thinking: that easy? Yes, here’s the biggest challenge: asking for referrals on a daily basis. #2: Have a Strategy. Most people have no formal referral plan in place. They wing it, and simply take referrals for granted. They miss out on a fortune, because they see only the initial transaction with a client, then wait for them to come back. This is reactionary and foolish. People are busy. They have lots of choices. Time and attention are always a premium.

Here’s the best way to increase referrals: ask daily for them and always make it a goal to know about your customer and who they associate with. This is super easy in the age of social media and websites. #3: Get active and be seen.

One of the smartest ways to get referrals is to join your best customers’ associations or trade groups. That’s the first step. Next, you need to step it up and become active within the group. Attend the trade shows. Sponsor an event.

Join one of the committees and make things happen.

Out of sight is out of mind. I can bet you that some of your top competitors employ this strategy and receive a ton of referrals by using it. What are you waiting for?

Get to it!

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Tony Rubleski is the President of Mind Capture Group. For feedback, questions, suggestions or article ideas he can be reached via email: Tony@MindCaptureGroup.com. fall 2014

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Public

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By Ginny Grimsley

R

eporters love sources who understand their needs. Getting a call from a reporter who wants to quote you as an expert for his or her story, review your book or product, or invite you to write an exclusive article for a publication, is a major coup.

It means that your marketing efforts are paying off. Who would blow such an opportunity?

Unfortunately, a lot of people. Those who don’t understand journalists’ deadlines and needs are liable to be quickly passed over in favor of sources who do. That lack of knowledge can also rack up lots of wasted time and money for those who take a shotgun approach to blasting their message or products to any and all journalists. If you don’t consider their individual needs, you’re likely making a futile effort.

After a decade of working with journalists, arranging for interviews with and exclusive articles by the experts our public relations firm represents, I’ve learned what works—and what doesn’t—for them.

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Here are a few tips for becoming a favorite news source: • Remember, many of them are working on tight deadlines. They need to find someone immediately—meaning right now. People who aren’t used to working with daily deadlines tend to think of “immediately” as “within 24 hours” or “some time this week.” That won’t do for a reporter who has to report, write and file her story today.

She will quickly move on to another source if she has to wait for you.

• If a media contact wants to talk to you—whether it’s today or next Tuesday—make yourself available. I’ve had clients say a particular requested day or time isn’t good because they’ve got a dentist appointment scheduled or a trip to the library. If The New York Times, or any publication, wants to interview you, reschedule the cleaning!

• Have a high-resolution image of yourself available.

Journalists often want an image to go with their story and that’s great for you—more exposure! So be prepared.

Print journalists need high-resolution images, usually 300

dpi (dots per inch). Instructing them to download your picture from your website likely won’t meet their needs.

Most images on websites have a very low resolution of about 72 dpi, which looks fine on a computer monitor, but can’t be printed on paper. Instead, have a professional quality face shot of yourself, and your product or book, if applicable, at the ready to email.

• To avoid wasting time and money when pitching your product or book to the media, learn which reporters and editors might have an interest in your message. The automotive writer will have no interest in gardening tips.

Likewise, the entertainment editor won’t care about your business book.

You should be able to find which journalists cover what beats by visiting the publication’s website. If that fails, pick up the phone and call.

• If an editor invites you to write an article or blog post, pay attention to the criteria and the deadline. If you’re asked for 450 words or less, don’t send an 800-word piece. They may request you focus on a specific topic, or write in a specific format, such as tips or first person. Follow instructions, make sure your piece is finalized and proofread, and file on time. Early is better.

Being prompt, accommodating and reliable may also have some other benefits: You could become the source the journalist saves in her Rolodex and you might just hear from her again.

Or, you may get a call from one of her colleagues; fellow staffers often share their good sources.

Whether the medium is a newspaper, magazine or blog, the journalists’ work can result in far-reaching exposure. Their articles are likely to be disseminated all over the Internet; one story could be seen by a million readers. How’s that for a return on your investment?

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Ginny Grimsley is the print campaign manager at EMSI Public Relations, a national PR agency. fall 2014

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Construction

Passive Design: Smart Choice for Reducing Carbon Footprint

By Renée Sande | photos by Don Hamilton Studios

W

Small projects may cost as much as ten percent more, but hen groundbreaking commenced last fall for larger projects see much smaller cost increases—in some cases, a new building at Sunshine Health Facilities the cost can actually be lower than mainstream construction. in the City of Spokane “Although there are several hundred Valley, the literal term Passive House buildings in the United States, took on a figurative meaning as well.

Passive House they are mostly residential,” says Rodell.

For the building—which will see com“Used in commercial application, reducing pletion this October—is setting precedent construction is the amount of energy for heating and coolas the first state-licensed health facility in ing by 90% is huge.” about building an the state and the nation, to use Passive House design—a German technology A Perfect Fit air-tight building, used to create airtight buildings that operBuilt on family values, Sunshine Health ate at approximately one-tenth the energy Facilities is a fifth generation, family-owned then mechanically cost of a conventional building. and run business which was founded by Ellen “This is significant . . . it’s the third largC. Craig—grandmother to current President ventilating to est Passive House project in the country,” and CEO, Dr. Nathan Dikes—in 1949. says Sam Rodell, architect on the projOver the years, at their 7-acre campus at provide purified ect and the only certified Passive House Ninth and Herald, historic location of the architect in Spokane. fresh air Spokane University, built in 1913, they have “The term Passive House is an unforcontinued to expand to provide compre-says Rodell tunate translation from the German lanhensive, top-notch health and rehabilitation guage, as it’s not just about houses but any services. occupied building and what passive refers However, as administrator, Ron Simpson to is less reliance on active systems such as large heating and has come to know first-hand, with a historic campus comes old cooling units.” buildings that have unique problems.

While a Passive building may initially cost 10 percent more “In our old building, you’ve got pockets of too hot and too than conventional construction, hefty energy savings will cold, which can negatively affect our patients. There isn’t a eventually offset the investment, on top of the appeal of living lot of privacy, and halls and doorways are very narrow,” says in a cleaner, healthier, quieter environment.

Simpson.

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However, when they made the decision to replace the building, they realized that it was cost prohibitive.

Rodell, who had worked with the family over three decades to accommodate the expanding business, suggested the idea of creating a Passive House building. When they realized their operating costs would be reduced by $120,000 annually over the next thirty years, they were thrilled.

“They are known for their wonderful values, taking very good care of their patients; it’s a great family environment,” says Rodell. “Anything they can do to reduce their overhead improves their ability to improve their care, which is very important to them.”

The three-story, 24,464 square foot, 58-bed facility will allow Sunshine Health Facilities to provide additional mental health services not currently being offered at the existing facility.

“The idea was intriguing from the getgo. When it comes to saving money and a more comfortable environment, I’m all for that,” says Simpson.

Engineering for a Healthier Environment

“There’s still the perception that this is a bit of an experiment, when in fact we’re already there,” says Rodell, who became a certified Passive House consultant a couple of years ago and who now designs Passive House projects for all his clients.

“It’s been how Northern Europe has been building for quite some time—for some it’s become code.”

In places like Germany, Austria, and Belgium, nearly 30,000 of these super-insulated, low-energy homes have already been built. However, in the United States, only about 90 of these buildings have been certified.

Some of this lag in catching on to Passive House or Passivhaus—which was founded in 1988 by German physicist Wolfgang Feist and Swedish professor Bo Adamson—is due to limited U.S. resources for building to Passive House code; some of it is due to less incentive in energy savings compared to European countries which have higher fuel prices and energy taxes. fall 2014

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Passive Design

However, more than 1,000 architects, builders and consultants have received Passive-House training in the U.S. and mainstream manufacturers like Marvin Windows have begun making products that meet passive certification standards.

This progress, Rodell feels, is only going to keep moving forward, in large part due to the promise of the technology, as well as the rigorous training through PHIUS (Passive House Institute U.S.) and third-party verification that back up the technology.

“It’s building science. The 3D technology takes the guesswork out of it,” says Rodell.

Jon Hawley, of Tamarack Ridge Construction, the general contractor for the project, agrees that the technology will continue to grow in popularity.

“Passive House design will quickly gain acceptance as energy continues to emerge as an issue of ever increasing urgency,” says Hawley.

The 3D technology Rodell refers to is software called WUFI Passive—an energy-modeling tool which uses specifically designed computer simulations to enable designers and consultants to manipulate design elements and building components to see how different options affect a building’s energy performance.

For example, they can see how changing the amount or type of insulation or the size of the ventilation system would affect the home’s overall efficiency.

“Passive House construction is about building an air-tight building, then mechanically ventilating to provide purified fresh air,” says Rodell.

While random air exchange is alleviated, an efficient heat recovery ventilation system controls the air flow by exchanging moist, polluted inside air for fresh, filtered outside air, heating or cooling it as need be. For example, as fresh, cold air enters the house through the ventilation system, it is heated by the warm air it passes on its way out, and vice versa.

To keep the building airtight, passive-built walls are two to three times thicker than traditionally built walls, highly efficient insulation wraps

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around the entire building and triplepaned windows with low-e glazing are installed. Careful attention is paid to sealing every construction joint and cavity made within the building envelope.

Simpson is looking forward to the controlled climate of the building and the comfort it will bring their patients.

“Our residents now will open windows and turn on the heat to get comfortable . . . one of the advantages of this new building will be a more stable and quieter environment for them,” says Simpson.

Leading by Example According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, in 2013, 40% of total U.S. energy was consumed in residential and commercial buildings.

While energy cost savings can either be the key motivation to build passively or the reason for many to say, “I won’t see my return on investment soon enough,” the need to look beyond that thinking, to simply reducing our carbon footprint, is evident.

“Climate scientists and governments are advising us we need to achieve reductions of eighty percent in the next thirty years to have any hope of avoiding runaway, irreversible climate change. This is achievable now . . . by building to the Passive House Standard.

Passive House is the only approach that potentially gets us even close to where we need to be,” said Rodell in his website’s blog.

“Passive House reduces our oil dependence and pollution, creates a more comfortable and healthy interior climate, and saves money.”

Hawley believes in Passive House design and applauds Sunshine Facilities and CEO Nathan Dikes for taking a leading role in responsible construction and business practices.

“I believe Passive House design and construction will become the new norm in the Inland Northwest—with Sunshine Health facilities leading the way.” Rodell agrees. “It’s definitely a tribute to Nathan and Sunshine Health Facilities for taking this role.”

To learn more about passive building, go to www.passivehouse.us. For more information on Sam Rodell, go to www.rodell.co. fall 2014

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20JUDges40

Chris Bornhoft Chris Bornhoft is a commercial Realtor working at Windermere Manito.

Previously he worked for Vandervert Developments.

Chris and his wife Marianne own apartment complexes throughout the region. Chris graduated from the University of Idaho and enjoys boating, golf and spending time with friends, family and his children.

Colleen Fox After graduating from Gonzaga University, Colleen Fox worked for the School of Business at Gonzaga in marketing and recruiting.

In 2012 she accepted a position at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Spokane as the marketing and communications director, and was promoted to director of development and communications in 2014.

Chris Reilly Chris Reilly is the founder of Aezy, a leader in crosschannel integrated online advertising that serves Fortune 500 global brands and small startups alike.

He is a professor of digital marketing at Gonzaga University, heads up the GSI Small Business Council, and serves on the board of the American Red Cross.

Holly Lytle Holly Lytle is the Founder and Executive Director of The ISAAC Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides families with financial, educational and emotional supports needed in their journey with autism. The ISAAC Foundation was founded in memory of her son, Isaac Lytle, who passed away in 2007.

Ryan Stemkoski Ryan Stemkoski is the interactive director and principal at Zipline Interactive, a boutique interactive advertising agency.

Zipline specialize in creating user-friendly and informative online experiences and websites that generate business for its customers. He is also an adjunct instructor in graphic design at Spokane Falls Community College.

E

By Stephanie Regalado

ninth annual

ach year, Inland Business Catalyst puts a shout out for nominations of professionals under the age of 40 (as of September 11, 2014) who are forces to be reckoned with in their industries, as well as within our community.

Our panel of “20 Under 40 Hall of Fame” judges, Inland Business Catalyst publisher, Vince Bozzi, and I sifted through the list of more than 50 exemplary candidates to choose this year’s honorees.

Historically, we like to highlight professionals who exhibit a commitment to community, with a penchant for turning risk into growth, and who appear to be on a professional trajectory toward greatness (if they aren’t already there).

We’re proud to present the 2014 list of 20 exceptional professionals under the age of 40 . . . with a bonus Distinguished Teen Honor, so make that 21 exceptional professionals under the age of 40. May their enthusiasm, dedication, and professional flair serve as inspiration to us all to be catalysts in our own lives and professional endeavors. Cheers to this year’s Top 21!

(Visit www.ibcatalyst.com for extended profiles)

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Aaron Rollins, 39

CEO and Co-founder Business Texter

Business Texter creates the software, intelligence and automation that allow businesses and consumers to communicate through mobile messaging. Text a business a question, get an instant, intelligent response back.

What do you do? My co-founder and I craft the vision and path for the company and seek out those who will help achieve that vision.

My primary focuses are working with our investors, executive team and customers to guide the big picture.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? I left the comfortable world of working for established companies to start a company from scratch. I think most business people would say that is the ultimate leap of faith in a career path.

It has already paid off in experience and knowledge. A little luck and hard work will determine the rest.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. There’s a significant difference between being the coach and the captain of a team. The coach leads the team from an outside perspective, sending in plays and overseeing their execution. The captain is inside the team, leading on the field while playing. There is a time and place for both, and knowing when to be which is important and something you have to learn over time.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals?

The big fish in the Spokane pond are accessible. You can meet the C level execs of well-established companies and get an audience with them, or the mayor or our congresswoman for that matter.

Spokane is big enough to have really successful and accessible people that choose to live here but don’t subscribe to the rat race hierarchy of bigger markets. Take advantage of the size of our pond when possible.

Photo by Wobble Monkey Photography

The Lands Council is an environmental nonprofit that preserves and revitalizes Inland Northwest forests, water, and wildlife through advocacy, education, and collaboration.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

Before collaborating with Geiger Corrections Center, I had no knowledge of the corrections system. I knew we needed space for a native plant nursery and people to manage it, and the local jail seemed like a good fit. Now I’m also teaching classes in environmental literacy at the jail.

We have ex-offenders volunteering with The Lands Council! It’s been extremely rewarding.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

When I first started planting trees, I had no real watering plan. Sure enough, hardly anything survived those first years. Now I know the importance of picturing the entirety of a project, and making sure you’re ready for each step. It seems so obvious, but if you don’t water the trees you plant, you won’t accomplish much.

Where do you expect to be with your career in five years? I see myself as the executive director of The Lands Council some day. But wherever I’m working, I’ll strive to make my little corner of the world a better place than it was when I arrived.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. My colleague, Debbie Boswell, never loses her positive attitude and takes hardships in stride. It’s taught me that a grateful and hard-working demeanor will usually generate positive outcomes.

Photo by Diane Maehl

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Amanda Parrish, 28

What do you do? All my work is aimed at improving water quality.

I educate citizens about the importance of treating stormwater, help landowners dealing with “nuisance” beavers so that the beavers can continue providing natural water storage, plant thousands of trees along degraded streambanks, and supervise a native plant nursery at Geiger Corrections Center.

Watershed Program Director The Lands Council

Washington, Idaho, Oregon, California and Nevada, has been recognized for its entrepreneurial approach, innovative use of technology and distinctive banking solutions. Umpqua Private Bank serves high net worth individuals and nonprofits, providing trust and investment services.

What do you do? I serve the financial needs of business owners, individuals and families, as well as nonprofits with complex financial needs by providing solutions such as lending, deposits, and sound financial advice. In everything I do, I always strive to create memorable experiences for my clients they can’t get anywhere else.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? Several years ago I was asked to run the United Way campaign for the bank. It was a monumental task, there were high expectations and I would be working directly with executive management, but I saw this as a great opportunity and agreed to do it. Through the leadership of our CEO, Greg Seibly, and my United Way committee we had a very impactful three-year run.

We expanded our reach from one to four states, 200 to 2,500 employees and increased donations from almost $200,000 to nearly a half a million.

AVP, Private Banker Umpqua Bank

Shelly Colomb, 31

Umpqua Bank, located in

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

When in doubt, over communicate, even with senior management.

While working on a project with several executive stakeholders, I wanted to protect their valuable time and not bother them with too much information. I learned that when executives say they have an open door policy, they mean it. I also learned how to appropriately manage up, to always be well prepared, highly organized and succinct in my communication.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now: As a working mother of two, I have observed the example set by many other working mothers and have learned how important it is to maintain a good work life balance and to build strong relationships with other women.

Photo by Diane Maehl

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David Beaudine, 34

Heery International is a fullservice professional services firm specializing in project construction management, program management, FF&E planning and procurement, and commissioning services.

Heery provides knowledge and experience to deliver client-focused solutions from concept to completion.

What do you do? Construction project manager/owner’s representative, helping clients deliver their construction project from design through completion. I am in charge of finding, growing and maintaining business on the east side of the mountains and into Northern Idaho.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? In 2006, I was working in Seattle and was given the opportunity to move to Spokane to take on projects with both Spokane International Airport and Spokane School District and, in turn, attempt to grow the business in Eastern Washington. Since then I have maintained both those client relationships by continuing to work with them on projects. I have grown the business by working with Moses Lake School District, the Northeast Community Center and the city of Post Falls. The move to Spokane allowed me to grow in my profession by giving me opportunities that I would not have had if I stayed in Seattle.

Benjamin D. Doornink, 29

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? Every failure is an

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COHE is a best practices

program in the Washington State workers compensation system that improves the quality, costeffectiveness, and consistency of care for injured workers in Washington State.

What do you do? As part of a great team, we provide care coordination for 20,000 injured workers and implement best practices for 1,200 providers throughout 19 counties in eastern Washington. I oversee the program and work with the various stakeholders to increase COHE’s effectiveness, implement new best practices, and improve the lives of injured workers.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? I don’t know a bigger professional risk than starting a business. In 2009, I cofounded INDABA Coffee with business partner and current owner, Bobby Enslow. We were straight out of graduate school and took on liabilities, risked our reputations, and marched into the great unknown. Our risks seem to have paid off as INDABA is recognized

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COHE Program Manager Center of Occupational Health and Education (COHE) Community of Eastern Washington, a service of INHS and St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute

Senior Project Manager/ Senior Associate Heery International

opportunity to grow and in my business we have to compete for work and when we are unfortunate enough to not win, it is a chance to get better. This includes how to better present our services to clients, finding ways to better connect with clients and ways to improve our business.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. I learned to separate work from my home/personal life. There are going to be disagreements and conflicts at work, especially in construction, but at the end of the day, being able to separate yourself from your job is vital, so when you’re at home you can truly enjoy yourself and devote your time to your family.

Photo by James Magnis

as one of Spokane’s leading coffee bars and roasters.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

The most important thing I’ve learned from all of my failures is to put failure in its perspective.

Don’t let it define the big picture.

Don’t let it define me. Don’t let it change my attitude. And don’t let it happen again. I’ve taken to heart a wise approach that was once shared with me: Treat the cost of failure as “tuition” and make sure it is a learning experience in my ongoing education.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals?

The business community in Spokane is exactly that, a community. Young professionals have excellent opportunities to connect with other professionals—both young and seasoned—from across all industries and receive support in their careers and business ventures.

Photo by Wobble Monkey Photography

helps foodies experiment in the kitchen with their wide selection of spices, blends, herbs, and salts. Find out more at www.spiceologist.com.

What do you do? We bootstrapped this business, so I’ve had every job title/ role possible. Hiring employees to take over the day-to-day operations gave me the freedom to concentrate on the fun stuff. I’d say my workload is ninety percent business development, and ten percent R&D. I love being in the spice lab creating new flavors!

Pete Taylor, 33

Founded in 2013, Spiceologist

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

Resigning from my executive chef position to launch Spiceologist was the ultimate “leap of faith,” and I’m so glad I did it. As a young company, we take risks daily. Without risk, you won’t get anywhere.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? Over the last couple of years I’ve learned a very important tip. Do not try to do everything yourself. Surround yourself with folks that kick butt and share your vision.

Where do you expect to be with your career in five years? Acquired and retired.

Founder and CEO www.spiceologist.com

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. Do not try to perfect your shiny object/idea to the nth degree.

Business plans are a thing of the past; every entrepreneur should focus on lean startup methodology.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? I’m stoked to see all of the entrepreneurial-based programs popping up in Spokane. It seems like there was nothing three years ago, and now all of a sudden there are co-working spaces like Fellow, Startup Weekend events, workshops, mentorship programs, and so much more. It seems like Spokane is on the right track.

What book has had the greatest effect on you professionally? I cannot narrow it down to one book, but I can narrow it down to one author: Seth Godin (www.sethgodin.com). I’ve read all of his 18 books, and his philosophy on marketing has helped grow our company immensely.

Photo by Rick Singer

fall 2014

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Eric Pearson, 31

Northern Quest

Vice President of Gaming Northern Quest Resort & Casino

Resort and Casino provides Vegas style gaming, exciting entertainment, a Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond rated hotel and spa. It also offers a wide variety of top-notch restaurants including the AAA Four Diamond rated Masselow’s.

What do you do? I am responsible for strategic oversight of all gaming operations (slots, table games, poker, keno, bingo, off track betting), loyalty marketing (database marketing, interactive programs, special events, players club, casino hosts, VIP services), security and EMT Operations and our guest experience and survey functions.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? Last year I launched the Q Cash promotion at Northern Quest that generates random cash rewards to our slot players that play with their Camas cards. The program was risky because we had to invest a lot of money in the technology. It has proven to be a success. We were only the second casino in the world to use such a system, which was largely unproven at the time. It was definitely a gamble that has paid off both in our guests’ eyes as well as being recognized internationally within the casino industry.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now.

My old boss, Tom McCartney, used to always tell me that in the hospitality industry we needed to remember to “find a way to say yes.” In customer service recovery situations we will often default to procedure manuals and process flow charts that are great for training our teams, but can never anticipate every guest service scenario.

This can often lead to disingenuous service and dissatisfied guests.

By always striving to “find a way to say yes,” Mr. McCartney instilled in me the simple truth that we are here to take care of our guests and ensure that they are having a great time, not just to process transactions and make sure the proper forms are filled out and the rules are followed.

Photo by Don Hamilton Studios

Red Rock Catering is one of the biggest and most popular catering companies in the area. Red Rock provides catering for numerous venues throughout the Inland Northwest and provides exclusive catering for The Glover Mansion, Chateau Rive at the Flour Mill, Centerplace in the Spokane Valley, Spokane Valley Event Center and the new Shriners Event Center.

Where do you expect to be with your career in five years? I plan on selling and planning into more venues throughout the Spokane area. I plan to continue to grow within the company and increase sales at all of our venues and continue to give our customers the best experience possible when planning their events.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? I think the business environment in Spokane offers so much for anyone looking to strive in his or her profession.

What are your hobbies? When I’m not working I love spending time with my family. My husband and our four children enjoy going on family trips, swimming, boating, camping, and we enjoy anything we can do together. My husband and I also enjoy going on trips together, even if it’s a few days we can get away so we can spend good quality time together.

Photo by Diane Maehl

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Kellie Hoy, 30

What do you do? I tour potential customers through our venues, answer any questions they may have, and share all information and pricing. I work with customers from the beginning of the planning process all the way up to the day of their event and after. I work with our chef to plan their perfect menu. I also plan their setup needs, floral, linen, alcohol, timing, and vendors. I work with my clients through every detail so their event is perfect. I want every customer to have an amazing experience.

Catering and Sales Director The Glover Mansion & Red Rock Catering

Spokane County United Way improves the lives and futures of all people in the community by bringing together the expertise, funding and volunteer support to positively impact education, income and health.

What do you do? I work to sustain and develop relationships with community leaders, corporate business, and nonprofit organizations.

I work closely with the community impact department and other leadership members within United Way to provide community engagement opportunities. I help guide the implementation of annual campaigns through the community and provide individuals and businesses with the education and resources needed to achieve community goals and aspirations.

Subarna Nagra, 30

Manager, Resource Development Spokane County United Way

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

I was excited and overly confident with a project that I thought I would be able to handle entirely on my own and was eager to show upper management. When the project started showing signs of failure and deficiencies, I realized I wasn’t going to be all things and had to ask for support. I learned that asking for help and resources wasn’t a sign of weakness and that humility is what fosters success.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. No matter how much you love what you do and no matter how good you are at doing it, a job is impermanent. Things that last longer than jobs are your health, your loved ones, and your passions.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? Spokane provides a diverse business environment allowing people opportunities at any point in their career. One can go to college, graduate school, find a job, grow in that job and even stay until retirement in Spokane. There is little need to leave Spokane anymore.

Also, the leaders within the business community are very receptive and inviting of young professionals Photo by Kim Stadler Photography

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Jake Krummel, 33

Numerica Credit Union is a full-service financial institution committed to fostering well-being in our members’ lives by offering innovative financial services, protecting their financial health, and by supporting our community.

Downtown Market Manager Numerica Credit Union

What do you do? My role at Numerica is comprised of many different, yet exciting, aspects. I have been given the distinct opportunity to be a volunteer, a coach to my team, an advocate for my members, a voice in the community, and trailblazer in a new market.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? When I applied at Numerica, I figured I was educated, confident, and experienced enough to start on as a branch manager. I made it through two interviews, and thought I might be in line for the manager position, only to find out the positions were filled internally. I thought, “Well shoot, I guess it’s on to the next place.” That’s when I

received a call from Erynne Hallock, a regional AVP for Numerica. She offered me the job of assistant manager because she saw something in me. This was a step back in my career, but something inside me (but mainly my wife, Emilie) said that I should take this opportunity. I have never been so grateful and humbled in my career.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now.

Manny Hochheimer, a colleague of mine at Numerica, has taught me to have compassion toward colleagues and members.

There are so many items you can uncover by being present in the moment, 100% of the time. It is easier to remember people’s names, easier to recognize their wants or needs, easier to absorb when an adequate time to follow up would be and how, and it’s also an opportunity to get to know someone on a personal level.

Photo by Diane Maehl

The Inland

Gretchen Kramer Youngren, 24

Northwest Blood Center saves lives by providing blood and services to support transfusion and transplantation medicine throughout the Inland Northwest.

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What do you do? I am responsible for coordinating daily blood drive events throughout the Inland Northwest and working with local residents and community business owners to support INBC’s mission of saving lives in our community.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. Working for the Blood Center we hear many stories of patients and families whose lives have been saved by the work we do in the community.

You never expect your company’s mission to hit home, especially when it involves your own son.

Jennifer Hawkins is the director of donor recruitment at the Blood Center. Her son Ryan was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in June of 2013—only six months after beginning her role with INBC. Rather than being angry at the world around her, Jennifer took her family’s situation and shined light on the work we do in community and how we can help other area families in need.

Working alongside Jennifer over the past four months has been nothing short of remarkable. Although she has had some challenging days while balancing work with her son’s care, at the end of the day she’s worked ten times harder than anyone could ever dream of. She’s taught us all that it’s not about the small issues that come up in day-to-day operations, it’s about the bigger picture, and how INBC can make a larger impact on the medical community of the Inland Northwest. She works in terms of “partnerships” and sees other organizations in Spokane as potential advocates of INBC . . . all they need is the initial conversation.

She’s taught me that a job is not just 40 hours per week. If you’re lucky enough to work for a company that you believe in and that has had a personal impact on your life, you can take that passion and change the world.

Photo by Don Hamilton Studios

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Territory Manager Inland Northwest Blood Center

Connor T. Simpson, 22

Barters Closet: A social marketplace for people to buy, sell and barter used items.

Rebooked: An application to help service providers fill cancelled appointments.

What do you do? Barters Closet: Product management, idea creation, balancing the budget and managing the team.

Rebooked: I manage product development and integrate consumer feedback.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? The greatest risk I have taken is not finishing college. I feel the experiences I have gained starting my own businesses and working within the community, however, outweigh the benefit I would have received by remaining in school.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? I started Barters Closet with the intent of being a marketplace to exchange clothing. I not only underestimated the challenges inherent with apparel, but also realized I was too narrow in my focus. I was unsuccessful in establishing a critical mass of buyers and sellers. Accordingly, I have pivoted and expanded beyond clothing into a broader range of categories.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now.

While working for Josh Neblett at etailz, I was introduced to a mentality that I now use on a daily basis: “Throw stuff at the wall until you see what sticks, and if it does, throw more of that stuff.”

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? There are a lot of passionate individuals in Spokane with a wealth of knowledge who enjoy mentoring young professionals to help them establish successful careers and/or start sustainable companies.

What book has had the greatest effect on you professionally? Harry Potter. I am a fan of fiction because it allows one to think beyond the realm of reality where anything can happen and everything is possible.

What is your favorite inspirational quote?

“Never, never, never give up.” – Winston Churchill Photo by Rick Singer

CEO, Barters Closet Vice President of Product Development, Rebooked

fall 2014

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Project Manager ACME Concrete Paving, Inc.

Bryan A. White, 33

Acme Concrete Paving, is a general contractor that specializes in construction and rehabilitation of concrete highways, freeways, and airfield pavements.

What do you do? My role is to estimate contracts for bid and to manage federal, state, and local agency construction contracts, all of which feature concrete pavements. I manage resources, coordinate construction activities, oversee operations of crews and subcontractors, and work directly with owners and their representatives.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? My biggest risk was as a new project manager taking on significantly larger construction projects here in Spokane than I had ever managed or even thought I was capable of managing. Had I failed on such visible projects my future relationships with owners and other contractors would have been undermined. Now with several successful completions, I have been able to forge a solid foundation for future projects.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

On multiple occasions during my time as a project engineer, and the first few projects as a manager, I didn’t take on issues because I wasn’t 100% sure I was right. I have learned to push through that uncertainty and found that not being afraid to speak up and make changes has made me a better all-around person.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. I started at the bottom at ACME shoveling under the rock crushers and sweeping the floors of the shops. Many people have contributed to who, and where, I am. I value those most who have taken great pride in their work, whatever the task.

What book has had the greatest effect on you professionally?

My uncle, Homer J. Olsen, now 90, founded a successful construction company from the ground up. He wrote a book which he gave to friends, family, and colleagues a few years ago entitled Skid Marks Along the Highway of Life. This book and his stories have been very inspiring in my work as a construction project manager.

Photo by James Mangis

Crotty and Son is a full-service law firm that focuses on employment and military-related litigation and corporate work.

What do you do? I am the sole owner of Crotty and Son Law Firm.

I manage not only the administrative and logistical aspects of the company, but all aspects of trial preparation from witness intake through taking a case to trial and beyond.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? During my sophomore year of high school I tried out for my high school football team. I did not train before tryouts and was the most out of shape person on the field. I was humiliated and embarrassed. I learned if I wanted to succeed at anything, preparation and practice were key.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. While serving in the military I had the opportunity to work with some amazing leaders. Their advice to me was to play people to their strengths. When I’m in a leadership position, which I am now with the National Guard, I try to follow through with that advice.

Photo by James Mangis

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Matt Crotty, 39

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? I left my job at a well-paying corporate defense law firm to start my own business. By doing so I have been able to take on more challenging cases and, in the process, own both the wins and losses that come with prosecuting those cases. I’m also an officer in the Washington Army National Guard with more than 20 years of experience. Of those 20 years, 15 have been in the National Guard and five years on active duty. During my five years of active duty, I got the opportunity to try out for the Army’s elite 75th Ranger Regiment. Selection into that unit is highly challenging, with a near 75% attrition rate. I made it into that unit where I had the opportunity to serve with some truly amazing people.

Attorney at law Crotty & Son Law Firm, PLLC

What do you do? I manage and run the entire School of Business career office—internships, recruitment, events, publicity, surveys, the Business Club, etc.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

I’ve switched careers multiple times and have been fortunate to find success in every change. Some of my most thrilling professional risks have been overseas in developing countries. I risked my own safety by living in a mud hut in Ethiopia with no guard but I knew my desire to work in the country outweighed the potential danger. I would also campout all day at offices in Rwanda in order to obtain the information and data I needed for my research. When I look at my career now, it is perfect for me.

I am able use my adventures to guide students and encourage them to undertake their own.

Assistant Director of Internships and External Relations, School of Business Whitworth University

Sinead Voorhees, 29

Whitworth University is part of a proud tradition of Christian liberal arts institutions that have educated students for generations.

Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, Whitworth educates nearly 3,000 students annually and offers 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? For many years I wanted and dreamed of being in international development.

I even finished my master’s in the subject and traveled 39 countries in pursuit of the place I wanted to call home. I would spend weeks and even months in each country working, backpacking, searching for a calling. I invested a lot of time, almost sacrificing a kidney and my leg at one point, and money to realize that Spokane was where I wanted to be. But after that kind of experience, where does one land in Spokane?

I wanted to transition out of that career path into something that could use those passions and skills to assist a different population. I have found that at Whitworth and realized I don’t need to be abroad in an exotic land to change lives and be changed. I just need to go to work every morning.

Photo by Diane Maehl

fall 2014

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Total Fit

Ricky Ruiz, 36

Spokane is a boutique gym located on the South Hill. An alternative to the big gyms, they offer a clean and comfortable atmosphere where clients can achieve any and all of their fitness goals.

What do you do? I am the owner as well as a full-time personal trainer. My most important role is to be a positive leader for my clients and staff. No matter what challenges life brings, fitness related or not, I aim for a solution and stay positive.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? Becoming an entrepreneur in the fitness industry. There are plenty of gyms and training studios in Spokane but I didn’t let that deter my decision and in 2009 I opened up a small personal training business. With focus, determination and a positive attitude I was able to grow and expand. My current location is twice as big as the first and I now have five employees.

Owner Total Fit Spokane LLC

Where do you expect to be with your career in five years? I plan on having either a second location or a bigger location. As my business grows I want to see what the growing needs of my customers are. If there is something more that my customers require and my company can offer, then I want to make sure I can supply it.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. Local retired teacher, mentor and friend, Tony Antonucci, would say, “Ricky, when you enter a room, go in there with the doors swinging open, have energy.” It taught me to have good positive energy when I interact with people and to have fun.

What is your favorite inspirational quote? Always say to yourself, “What can I be doing right now to be more productive?”

I always try to be as productive as possible. If I’m not training a client or teaching a class, then I think of ways to promote my business and grow.

Photo by James Mangis

Devon A. Lind, 22

Photoboxx is a social media printing station used at events

where photos are taken with mobile devices. It inspires the use of a brand or campaign hashtag in order to get a free print, which makes it an amazing feature at events.

What do you do? My role is the lead developer of the Photoboxx software and business management of our startup company. Half of my days are spent on building and improving the Photoboxx software, internal softwares, and website, and the other half consists of business meetings and decision making throughout the company.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? As a recent graduate of Whitworth University with a Computer Science degree, the biggest risk I have taken has been building a startup instead of taking a full paid job. My profession is in high demand, but I see so much value in building something from the ground up, creating something incredible and working on things that I am passionate about.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience?

My biggest goal in life when I was a kid was to be a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. I pursued this goal by applying to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs in hopes of acceptance into the prestigious academy, but failed to get in because of a medical issue. This devastated me, but I learned that no matter where life takes me, there is always a greater plan and I have learned to trust in that promise.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. I’ve learned from my fellow partner at Photoboxx, Michael Fisk, how to think like an entrepreneur. He has an incredible mind and vision for things and that has been a huge influence on me. I’ve learned to figure out the “WHY” before we do anything, because the “WHY” is what will drive us.

Photo by James Mangis

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CATALYST | www.ibcatalyst.com

CTO and Co-Founder Photoboxx

What do you do? My job is to make sure our team of professionals is running properly, our clients are experiencing superior service, and that we are marketing and branding our business effectively and efficiently.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

I have always been a risk taker. I am the type of person who is willing to go out and do things that people say can’t be done. We started a real estate lending business in 2008 when the real estate market was collapsing and have steadily grown that business at more than 35 percent a year.

When did you fail, and what did you learn from that experience? I was heavily invested in real estate in the early 2000s and through the bubble popping in 2008. What I learned was there is an appropriate time to pull out of certain investments and it’s usually the time when everyone else is saying “jump in.”

Owner/Partner Inland Capital LLC and Citibrokers

Aaron D. Cunningham, 33

Inland Capital LLC is a short term private money lending company that works with real estate investors. Citibrokers is a residential and commercial real estate brokerage.

Where do you expect to be with your career in five years? We plan to continue to grow Inland Capital into a major player in the private money lending business. We also plan to grow Citibrokers into a major regional player in the real estate brokerage community.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. I have learned that you can say you’re working hard or you can work hard. There are a lot of people out there who like to “talk the talk” but not a lot who “walk the walk.”

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? I feel that it’s a good place where people like to know each other and connections can certainly help you succeed.

Photo by Wobble Monkey Photography

fall 2014

35

St. Luke’s

Nurse Manager St. Luke’s Rehabilitation

Alisha M. Ainsworth, 32

Rehabilitation Institute St. Luke’s is the region’s only Level I trauma rehabilitation hospital and the most comprehensive provider of inpatient and outpatient care and therapies.

What do you do? I manage the inpatient nursing units for both Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury and oversee nursing staffing.

This entails assuring quality services by establishing and maintaining departmental initiatives, developing staff education plans, providing direct patient care when needed and collaborating with other departments to ensure superior patient outcomes.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

I have consistently pushed myself beyond my comfort zone professionally which I think is always a bit of a risk. Most recently I stepped in as the interim Chief Nursing Executive, in addition to the rest of my job duties, when there was an unexpected opening. I didn’t focus on how things had been done previously, but took the perspective that I wanted to focus on what was best for delivering an exceptional experience to both patients and employees. In the eight months in that role I was able to positively impact the work environment by enhancing employee engagement through implementing a comprehensive preceptor program for new hires, offering a clinical career ladder and restructuring support services. I was able to bridge gaps between departments at a key transitional time for the hospital which fostered interprofessional team work.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now.

My grandmother taught me that everyone I meet has something to teach me. These lessons might not be something we want to learn but even if it is simply highlighting an area of my personality that could use a little altering, it is worth learning. I have taken that to heart, and I feel that I glean a bit from everyone I work with whether it is how they handle a difficult conversation with an employee or the way they put a positive spin on even the most challenging situation.

Photo by Don Hamilton Studios

iCPooch is a device that enables people to two-way video chat with their dog and remotely deliver them a treat from anywhere.

What do you do? As the inventor and founder of iCPooch, I’ve been involved in the details associated with launching a new product: design, patent application, company formation, and product branding. My role has evolved into public relations and marketing as the spokesperson for iCPooch. I actively participate in media relations, tradeshows, investor presentations, and other related activities.

Photo by Wobble Monkey Photography

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CATALYST | www.ibcatalyst.com

Awar d

Martin, 14

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? The initial support that my idea received at Startup Weekend was astounding, and I found myself surrounded by local investors, marketers, software developers, brand specialists, patent attorneys—all interested in helping me to bring iCPooch to reality. When I stop to consider the amazing Spokane business support behind me on this journey, I am truly humbled.

Distinguished

Teen

Brooke

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off? At 12 years old, I had decided to participate in the entrepreneurial process as part of an eighth grade class project. Two years ago I attended Startup Weekend Spokane. The minute I walked into the auditorium at Gonzaga, I felt the wave of energy all around me and realized that I didn’t want to sit on the sidelines. After all, I had brainstormed a few creative ideas in my life, but I wasn’t sure anyone would take them—or me—seriously. The MC asked if anyone wanted to pitch an idea. Risking serious humiliation, I thrust my hand in the air and suddenly found that I had exactly one minute to convince a room full of adult professionals that I had what it takes to play on the team.

After everyone had finished their pitches, my original idea for iCPooch received the most votes of any presented. In those 60 seconds, I learned a valuable life lesson: Without the courage to risk failure, you’ll never truly know success.

Inventor/Founder/ Spokesperson iCPooch

What do you do? I am a partner at Graham Lundberg Peschel and manage our Spokane and Tri Cities offices. I have handled multiple types of personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, nursing home abuse and neglect, dog bite injuries, amusement park injuries, and insurance bad faith.

What risk have you taken in your profession and how did it pay off?

When I joined Graham Lundberg Peschel in 2010, we had a handful of clients in the Spokane area. Our goal was to grow the business locally so that I could live and work here full time within five years. This was a huge risk to bring a “Seattle firm” to Spokane and to focus my caseload locally. We grew quickly, and the five-year plan ended up being accomplished in two.

Janelle M. Carney, 31

Graham Lundberg Peschel (GLP) has represented wrongfully injured clients throughout Washington State for more than three decades.

GLP has 24 attorneys committed to creative, compassionate and collaborative representation of its clients.

Describe one thing that you learned from a fellow employee that helps you now. My mentor, Scott Lundberg, has taught me about doing everything I can for a client, and to never take the easy way out.

His advice is to always “work that case up” which means to leave no stone unturned and to be prepared for anything.

What do you feel Spokane’s business environment has to offer young professionals? I have worked in big city markets, including Phoenix and Seattle. However, there is nothing like working in Spokane.

There is much more personal touch here and more comradery among the community. Just the other day, I was able to resolve a case because the defense counsel was a personal friend of mine. This personal relationship allowed me to open negotiations and compromise a fair settlement. This saved the client the heartache and stress of going to trial.

This is not something you often see in the big city markets.

Photo by Don Hamilton Studios

Managing Partner of Eastern Washington Graham, Lundberg, Peschel, P.S. Inc.

fall 2014

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business closeupsponsored section Group Health

As health care needs change, Group Health leads the way

G

roup Health has been innovating better ways for businesses to provide health care to their employees for more than 60 years. As rapid changes to the health care environment present new challenges for business owners, more and more employers are turning to the combination of ways to deliver quality care, with the right coverage options, that Group Health pioneered when they opened their doors in 1947.

In the Inland Northwest, Group Health has been leading the charge in developing health care solutions that keep employees healthy and productive, and reduce the long-term financial impact of health care on area business.

For example, Spokane’s most comprehensive accountable care organization (ACO), CareUnity, is a powerful partnership between Group Health Cooperative and Providence Health Care.

CareUnity brings together nearly 700 physicians from Group Health Physicians, Providence Medical Group, and Columbia Medical Associates to provide better coordination and a more positive patient experience in the Spokane region.

While many ACOs are designed to serve only Medicare populations, CareUnity and its providers have value-based contracts with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial purchasers.

They work directly with health carriers and self-funded employers to ensure that care is coordinated across the entire health care system—from primary care and specialists to hospitals and home health.

Beyond their innovative approach to care and coverage, Group Health research, community programs, and training opportunities for health professionals continue to benefit the Inland Northwest.

To learn more about how Group Health is making a difference for Northwest businesses, and how they can help meet the health needs of your employees, give them a call at (800) 497-2210, or visit them online at largegroup.ghc.org.

Group Health | (800) 497-2210 | www.largegroup.ghc.org

Next Day Dry Cleaning

Affordably Delivering Quality and Convenience

A

dam Burton, owner of Next Day Dry Cleaning, has seen his company grow from one employee to a bustling operation that has a staff of eight. Next Day Dry Cleaning represents three generations of family involvement in the cleaning business that originates in his hometown of Moscow, Idaho, with his grandfather’s business, Moscow Steam Laundry. The family involvement continues now with Burton’s wife Amy, his 6-year-old daughter, Wren, and twin 3-year-old boys, Ben and Charlie.

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CATALYST | www.ibcatalyst.com

Burton’s years of cleaning experience range from a longstanding, store-based service to expanded services including free home pickup and next day delivery of dry cleaning orders directly to the customer’s doorstep.

“It’s kind of like a dry cleaning store at your front door,” says Burton.

Next Day Dry Cleaning’s detail-oriented staff thoroughly inspects all clothing and items before refreshing them with a gentle dry-cleaning process. Burton and his team clean everything from shirts and sleeping bags to leather jackets and comforters.

And when any item needs resizing or a zipper replaced, they assist with alterations and repairs. “Most of our customers are surprised that our pricing is the same or less than other dry cleaners,” says Burton. “There seems to be an assumption that, due to the level of services we provide along with our pick-up and delivery, our prices would be expensive. But we take great pride in not only offering the best services around, but also offering the best prices on those services.”

Burton encourages people to visit his website for online signup options; there is even a “request service immediately” option for those who need cleaning services in a hurry.

Next Day Dry Cleaning | (509) 892-1234 | www.DCpickup.com

Re-Elect Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich Sheriff Ozzie’s leadership has: Increased Staffing In The Sexual Assault Unit To Better Track Sex Offenders Restored Crime Check Implemented An Intelligence Led Policing (ILP) Strategy Adopted The Domestic Violence Lethality Assessment Program Expanded Community Based Policing Formed A Regional Violent Crimes And Gang Taskforce Formed A Regional Property Crimes Taskforce Developed A Budget Office Within The Sheriff’s Office Rebuilt Spokane County’s Emergency Communication System Developed An Internationally Recognized Training Unit

*Leadership* SPOKANE COUNTY SHERIFF

CRIME IS DOWN! Violent Crime 2007-2013:

President WA Assoc. of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs

Unicorporated Spokane County - 56% decrease

Sergeant UNITED STATES ARMY

City of Spokane Valley - 24% decrease

Patrol Field Training Officer Patrol Sargent

Property Crimes 2004-2013:

S.W.A.T. Team Supervisor

Unicorporated Spokane County - 8% decrease

Training Sergeant

City of Spokane Valley - 4% decrease

Police Chief

“As a result of my stance on HIGH STANDARDS, we have the lowest violent crime rate in two decades. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office has become known as one of the best law enforcement agencies in the State of Washington when it comes to training, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office has the public’s trust. It has been an honor to serve you for the past eight years. Thank you for your support!”

www.OzzieforSheriff.com fall 2014

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Fostering An Environment of Innovation

By Richard Kielbon

T

he Roman poet Orvid wrote about a sculptor, Pygmalion. In the myth, Pygmalion created a statue of the perfect woman embodying every element of ecstatic beauty. Once he completed it, Pygmalion found that he desired the statue to be a living woman of equal beauty. He turned to the goddess Aphrodite, to create her.

In doing so, he had turned mere stone into the perfect reality. We now talk about the Pygmalion effect: turning something commonplace into something animated and spectacular.

Innovation, at its core, embodies the idea of turning average things into wonderful things. And creating a new and attractive product or service in your business pays a double benefit: first the value of the innovation itself, and then the distance in consumer value between you and your competitors. What’s not to like about innovation? Why, then, aren’t more companies on board with innovation programs in their businesses?

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life changes...

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For more information about tattoo removal or to schedule a free consultation, visit spokanetattooregret.com or call one of our two locations.

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The idea of creativity in business receives almost universal hoopla in the press and there is no shortage of books and articles on the subject—I cannot read fast enough to stay ahead of the new publications in the marketplace.

But I often wonder who is reading this mass of information, because I’ve stumbled upon a curious discovery: few companies are doing anything about it.

A recent survey I conducted, found that many organizational leaders both in business and government express a fear of creativity. The threat of unexpected embarrassment or loss of control creates enough trepidation to make leaders averse to the idea of letting creativity “run loose” in their organizations.

Even when innovation is embraced in words, often the effort is half hearted. I spoke recently with a leader in a very large and well-known business in the digital world: their entire program for innovation consists of a onceper-year innovation “fair.” But what business in this fast-moving digital era can afford to wait a full 12 months to discuss new ideas?

If you want to know what people are looking for, Google is the place to find out. A search of Google ad words, reveals that few are seeking help with innovation or creativity. It is a maxim in business that you can’t sell what no one is looking for. So, what is business looking for on the internet? Business is chock full of people looking for leadership training—and innovation is a leadership issue if it is anything. But the current crop of business leadership subject matter abounds in discussions of metrics of control and management—in the development of personal charisma and “leadership characteristics.”

Is there a place in business that would be an open door to teaching innovation strategy? What organiza-

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Prize: Send us your completed survey and you could win a FREE COLOR AD (1/3 page) in Spokane Coeur d’Alene Living or Inland Business Catalyst. If already advertising with us, your ad size will be increased.

2014 Best of Business nominations Give us your opinion about the Inland Northwest businesses and the services they provide. Ballots must be mailed or faxed (509-535-3542) to our office by October 14, 2014. Only one entry per person will be accepted. Your name, address and phone or e-mail must be included, and at least 50 percent of the ballot must be completed for us to count it and for you to qualify for the prize. Personal information will not be used for soliciting of any kind. Attempts at ballot stuffing will be eliminated from the results.

All categories may not be reported in the accompanying article. Results will appear in the Winter Issue 2014/2015.

1. Best Employment Agency

12. Best Public Relations Agency

23. Best Credit Card Processing

34. Best Maintenance & Janitorial Service

2. Best Local Business Man

13. Best Print Design Business

24. Best Business Banking

35. Best Office Design Company

3. Best Local Business Woman

14. Best Web Design Business

25. Best Credit Union

36. Best Travel Agency

4. Best Sign Company

15. Best Computer Repair Business

26. Best Business Security System Providers

37. Best Gift Basket/Gift Service Business

5. Best Business Startup (one year or less)

16. Best Printing Company

27. Best Commercial Realty Company

38. Best Clothing Store for Business Apparel

6. Best High-Tech Firm

17. Best Networking Events

28. Best Business Insurance Firm

39. Best Office Building / Office Park

7. Best Engineering Firm

18. Best Wholesale Coffee Service

29. Best Office Supply Business

40. Best Restaurant for a Business Lunch

8. Best Commercial Architectural Firm

19. Best Florist

30. Best Office Furniture

41. Best Telecommunications Firm

9. Best Commercial Photographer

20. Best Accounting Firm

31. Best Trade Show Displays

42. Best Catering Business

10. Best Commercial Construction Company

21. Best Collection Agency

32. Best Dry Cleaning

43. Best Event Facility

11. Best Advertising Agency

22. Best Law Firm or Lawyer

33. Best Promotional Products Provider

44. Best Place to Host a Company Party

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509-324-2424

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Wine & Cheese 101 class, 6:30pm to 8:00pm $45 per person.

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CATALYST | www.ibcatalyst.com

tional need might drive an organization to embrace innovation training? When leadership is driven by a genuine interest in competing head to head with its competition, the only logical mechanism for doing that is innovation. Only innovation has the capacity to outwit and outmaneuver the competition, and to add multiples of income growth rather than linear growth.

So, where’s the hang-up? Innovation is a non-linear activity. It thus requires a little faith—and egos under control at the leadership level. But assuming you have overcome these obstacles, or can overcome them in your organization, what would open the door to innovation?

Fostering innovation in an organization demands first that the leadership create a number of conditions inside the walls of its palace.

Where traditional leadership runs on a model of command and control, innovation leadership runs on making room for purposeful mistakes. Where traditional business runs on metrics, innovation runs on prototypes. These two elements require a third: a climate of happiness and trust. And the fourth, open communication.

The purpose of this management style is to make it expected and safe so that people will seek and embrace small gambles. Ed Catmull of Pixar fame says in his new book, Creativity, Inc., “To be a truly creative company, you must start things that might fail.”

In short, an innovation climate in an organization must rely on leadership to allow and encourage mistakes through prototyping in an environment of happiness and open communication. With a little faith, you can create your own Pygmalian experience. Creativity, after all, is not about hitting home runs. It’s about making the commonplace into something spectacular.

Come have a night of wicked fun celebrating the best of our city!

WHAT: Best of the City Wicked Good Party WHEN:

October 10th, 2014

WHERE: Lincoln Center 1316 N Lincoln St, Spokane, WA 99201

TIME: 6-7p.m. VIP Reception | 7-11p.m. General Admission (Awards Ceremony 7-8p.m.)

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Through The

Trenches M

Mike’s Mobile Shoe and Leather Care Service

Mike Wilson Shining Shoes, and Lives, for a Living

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CATALYST | www.ibcatalyst.com

Story and Photo By Darin Burt ike Wilson keeps his eyes down when he rides the elevator in the Paulsen Building in Downtown Spokane. He’s not shy. Like a sign painter who might look up to admire his handiwork, Wilson, owner of Mike’s Mobile Shoe and Leather Care Service, is simply looking down to see who might be in need of a shine.

Wilson is at his shop, tucked away on the skywalk level of the Paulsen Building, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

His price starts at $3.50 for a basic shine on brown, black or burgundy shoes, and goes up for white shoes, boots and other items that need more work. He also reconditions leather purses and briefcases and coats and jackets, and even provides full-service pick-up and delivery. For $25, Wilson will give your shoes a super high gloss with an “Ultimate Spit Shine.” But don’t worry, there’s no saliva involved. “There’s a new invention,” he jokes, “it’s called water.”

Wilson has been in this location for three years; previously, he’s had shoeshine stands in the U.S. Bank Building, Lincoln Building barber shop, and at place on Sprague before the building was torn down and turned into a parking lot. He’s been shining shoes for 35 years, having started at Nordstrom, at 17 years old, under the tutelage of longtime shineman Clarence Forech.

“I wasn’t doing anything else . . . simple as that,” Wilson says. “I was running around with this girl, and we were spending a lot of cash—we loved going to movies and we had a serious Chinese food habit. We didn’t have any means, but we had parents. My mom was the type to encourage me to have a future, but she wasn’t the kind of motherbird to kick you out of the nest and hope you’ll fly.”

Originally from Chicago, Wilson, 50, moved to Spokane with his family in 1968, attending public school before getting his GED. At Nordstrom, he was making $150-200 a day.

Not bad at all, especially considering that a shoeshine only cost a buck. Wilson says the tips were okay, but the money he made came from it being a volume business.

“Downtown Spokane back then was super cool,” he says. “There was a whole lot more foot traffic than there is now.”

“You might get a dollar tip for a dollar shine,” he recalls, “but then you’d get really nice guys coming in from other states where they were used to paying five bucks to get their shoes shined and they’d still tip you five or six bucks. Those were the guys you waited for to

come through.”

Statistically speaking, more than half of all small businesses fail within the first five years. A shoeshine shop, Wilson says, is one exception. It’s a low-overhead business built on service and repeat customers.

Many of Wilson’s regulars are bankers, attorneys and professional businessmen, but he caters his service to the everyday individual whether they have a successful career or are hunting for a job and wants to look their best.

“A shoeshine tightens down your business attire,” Wilson says. “If you’re applying for a job that you really want, you should do everything it takes to get the job—that means shine your shoes and shine them well.”

Sure, you can buy a can of polish and spruce up your shoes at home. But you’re not going to do as good of a job, and you’re certainly not going to get the rag popping and friendly chatter for which Wilson is known.

He’s getting pretty famous, too. His shoeshine videos on Youtube—one where he lights a boot on fire and then skillfully brings it back to life—have hundreds of thousands of views.

“You can’t be a shoeshine man without being a shoeshine man,” Wilson quips. “You really have to be a people person to succeed in this line of work.

“In the big cities guys will go and sit at the shoeshine stand after they’ve had a bad day because the shoeshine guy is always telling jokes and always has something wise to say.

I’ve had friends say, ‘Mike is a fountain of useless knowledge,’” Wilson says. “Not all of it is useless; sometime in your life, the knowledge I just gave you is going to pop up and you’re going to need it.”

Whether it’s a pair of $2,000 vintage John Lobb dress shoes, Stingray eel-skin cowboy boots or a casual pair of Hush Puppies, no shoes leave Wilson’s shop until they meet his personal approval. A full-length mirror stands next to the door where customers are encouraged to do a final inspection.

Wilson says a good-looking pair of shoes can transform the way a person looks, and the way they feel.

“Their shoulders are thrown back a little further, their head is up a little higher and they’ve got their stride back . . . they feel like a million bucks,” Wilson says. “I love making people feel good; that’s my payment.

“My goal is for Spokane to eventually get a shoeshine parlor with a minimum of four chairs, not just a shoeshine stand,” he adds.

“My goal is to help Spokane see itself in a better professional image.”

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Seasonal • Wedding • Birthday • Anniversary • Branding & Favors • Gift Giving • Home Decor

fall 2014

47

Tapio Yellow Flag Bldg Ste #209 104 S. Freya, Spokane, Wa 99202-4866