As a graduate of Goldman Sachs 10KSB program, I walked away not only with a plethora of in-depth knowledge and tried-and-true formulas to run a better business, but I am in awe of GS and their continuing support of small businesses. When first being accepted into the program, people asked me why GS would give away a $30,000-plus multi-month program. “It’s their philanthropic endeavor,” I would reply.
Now, nine months later, I only thought I knew what I was talking about. I have implemented by growth plan, become really great friends with my GS advisor, have an app to seek guidance from the more than 10,000 fellow graduates and GS has hired me Photography by Misty’s services (keep in mind, this is not something they guarantee). I’ve photographed Governor Abbott at a corporate event and I’ve taken headshots of their corporate executives.
Last week, I headed to Goldman Sachs’ Downtown Dallas offices. There, they were having a holiday market, featuring jewelry and candle makers, popcorn poppers, an everything-Texas market and more - all GS 10KSB grads.
I heard a lot of stories about how they’ve been supported since receiving their diploma. When employees returned to the office, the execs brought Mama Moore’s Gourmet Popcorn in again and again as a feel-good treat. I watched, listened and, of course, took pictures as team member after team member came up and gushed over Debra Moore, thanking her for the delicious treats. I am certain it was her pleasure.
Then the coffee guys, who I might add look as great as their coffee smells and tastes, are regulars at the GS office. It really spoke to me how much this Big-Corp giant is ever mindful of their internal people while continuing to support the little guys. Even their shopping bags sported #MakeSmallBig.
While perusing the Texas General Store, I was reminded of another larger-than-life company who caters to the little guys. Beanie Baby founder Ty Warner decided this holiday season to take the supply-chain headache into his own hands. As a mom-on-a-mission decades ago, I would head to Mickey D’s with my kiddos every week to get the newest mini Beanie Baby in the Happy Meal. However, until reading this story, I’ve been over the craze. Well, here we go again… I might of HAD to buy a few babies at the holiday market.
The craziest part of this story? My new friend Jessica at the Texas General Store hadn’t even heard the news. She just knew she went from empty display racks to those flowing over. Not a peep about Ty’s personal endeavors to support the little guys (in case you didn’t know, it’s the small businesses that carry these sweet-faced bean-stuffed animals. And Mr Warner wanted to do his part to end the Mom-and-Pop-Shop struggle.
If one day you can no longer book a session with me, it’s probably because I am hanging around the security elevators at Trammell Crow or Westmont, Illinois, begging to get hired with one of these big dawgs.
Want to know more about the 10KSB program? Let’s chat: 214.235.3239
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