Disqus - Latest Comments for Brad

Re: Speaking at Refresh Dallas

Brad — Thu, 13 Apr 2006 19:20:53 -0000

Came to the meeting tonight and I thought it was informative. A bit much on the My Space talk for my liking but all in all, nice job.

Question 1: Why did you leave LEGO?

Question 2: As I graduated a Comm. major/Comp. Sci. minor I tend to take things down to the fundamental humanistic levels as you seem to. With that said, how involved are you in the technology side of it? Coder/designer? Just curious.

Re: Merry Christmas everyone!

Brad — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:10:28 -0000

[viddler_video=7d138b85]

Re: Personal Brand vs. Company Branding

Brad — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 22:02:08 -0000

With some additional conversation going on in Twitter & on the blog here, here is where I'm at!

[viddler_video=9e2c292]

Re: Gastric Bypass | 240, on the nose. Total lost = 59 lbs.

Brad — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:20:53 -0000

Testing out the Viddler comment system, please work!
[viddler_video=ef8cd1b6]

Re: I am passionate about financial services!

Brad — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:20:53 -0000

Great comments guys and I agree with your points.

@ Jodi - Making things simpler could go a long way. Well said.

@ Robbie - Looking at the bigger picture definitely brings things into perspective. Though, I still wonder how you do it down the lowest levels BUT other companies like Starbucks can so why not a FI?

@ Ron - Even if you took people that were more broadly passionate about "making money" I still think that type of passion is not a positive passion. People like that are more concerned with the cash and not the relationship of the FIs customer. Changing perception, however, by focusing on things like "getting out of debt" or "helping a person with a new business" are things that employees and people can feel good about and is where the focus needs to be placed.

Re: Gastric Bypass | Possible Problems & ‘The Pre-Ops’

Brad — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:37:46 -0000

I don't think so. Doctor did my blood work and it came back fine. It seems like I can equate my light headedness with just sheer lack of food. If I force myself to eat more, I don't do it as much. Thanks for the comment!

Re: Life after Gastric Bypass | 7 weeks out

Brad — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:39:30 -0000

Good luck to you Larry. Be sure to let us know how it went. And check out our GB community over on Ning at: http://gastricbypass.ning.com

Re: Gastric Bypass | A Feel Good Story

Brad — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:58:04 -0000

Hi Zoraida,

Glad you like the blog! I have a little bit of sagging on my belly but that is really it. I guess I'm blessed with good genes and youth is on my side. I haven't had surgery but a tummy tuck is something I've definitely considered down the road at some point, thanks for the comment.

Re: I’m gonna be a daddy - again!

Brad — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:32:16 -0000

Thanks to everybody so much! I go through this wave of excitement and then fall over into overwhelming fear category. I guess that happened on the 1st one, too...noticing a trend anyone? ;) Thanks again.

Re: Gastric Bypass | Possible Problems & ‘The Pre-Ops’

Brad — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:04:31 -0000

Go for it, the only thing I ask is you take a picture of your booth and send it back to me when you finish. Would love to see it!

Re: Gastric Bypass | Hitting a Plateau

Brad — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 23:48:35 -0000

Hi Zulma, thanks for your comment.

I know how you feel and I'm hear to tell you, it gets better. Everybody gets back to 'normal' foods differently...took me about 2-3 months but I can eat pretty much whatever I want now. This time is the best time for you to focus on YOU and your body, don't sweat the small stuff.

Also, if you're interested, we have a GB community we've started here at http://gastricbypass.ning.com

Re: Get out there, expose yourself!

Brad — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 23:49:57 -0000

Appreciate the kind words and glad to know that I can help in some small way.

Re: Vibing w/ Sliderocket for presentations

Brad — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:54:56 -0000

@Robbie - Remember I'm all Mac type of guy. For screen capture I used IShowU for screen capture and then had to convert it from SWF to FLV through VisualHub. The audio was a single track just recorded through GarageBand.

Re: Vibing w/ Sliderocket for presentations

Brad — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:56:06 -0000

@Nat - Absolutely, it would be a pleasure. Keep up the good work and kudos to you guys for keeping up with what us bloggers are saying, both good and bad, about you. Very smart!

Re: iPhone Software 2.0 Review

Brad — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:55:39 -0000

@Denise - But note, this is JUST the software update not the new iPhone 3G. The original iPhone will upgrade to this software version. I did all these demos off of the original iPhone. Follow me?

The new iPhone 3G just adds 3G support, GPS, and a new body style mainly.

Re: Gastric Bypass | Going back to work

Brad — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 17:06:40 -0000

You're head is going to tell you go but your body is going to think otherwise. You'll most likely still have you're staples in but you'll be able to walk around. Just make sure your other coaches shows your players the fundamentals and not you. No quarterbacking either mister! ;)

Re: My personal iPhone 3G debacle

Brad — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 23:58:54 -0000

@David - I'm glad you like your phone so much and that you got such a great deal on it too. On the totally opposite side, I hate you for the same reasons. ;)

Re: My personal iPhone 3G debacle

Brad — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 10:14:11 -0000

I'm envious of your positive experience but more envious you have one right now. But things are looking up...just got my 'it's being delivered' on email so only a matter of time.

Thanks for the comment Gene!

Re: What that little extra can mean to someone

Brad — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 23:01:29 -0000

I'd definitely recommend it. I'll see what I can do to make that happen Ginny, thanks for the comment as usual!

Re: Is Personal Branding < Company Branding?

Brad — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 23:02:51 -0000

@Tim - So could you say that CurrencyNala falls into that perspective of being branded by a company? Would love for her to comment as well. Thanks for the comment!

Re: Is Personal Branding < Company Branding?

Brad — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 23:06:11 -0000

@Robbie - I read this comment in the car ride home and it made me think the rest of the way home. In particular, you're last statement:

"Build a company with lots of great personal brands and your company brand will be stronger because of it."

I think that is a great way to look to consider it from multiple levels. As a leader, you should encourage those that work for you to build up their personal brand and in turn it pays dividends towards the company. Help your employees find their voice, I like it. As a individual focus on your own personal growth and development and a 'brand' will naturally develop from it.

Well said Robbie.

Re: What I learned from my week off

Brad — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 16:20:17 -0000

@Brent - I'm definitely down with the accountability game. Day 1 has been pretty good without emails but still finding other ways to not get what I planned done. Heh, always improving!

@Gene - Appreciate the compliment. Following in your footsteps is something I'll think I'll always work to achieve and I loved the 2nd phrase. Hah!

Hopefully my 'good' judgment can be my guide, in transparency, in hopes that I don't step over that line of privacy whereby I begin to effect others.

Re: Legitimate reasons for watching reality shows?

Brad — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:54:26 -0000

Betsy Demik? Well hello there!

Things sound like they are going well if your 'big timing' it in Hollywood, how cool. What are you doing nowadays?

Whenever you're ready to start another reality show of a small company doing big things just give me a buzz. I'll be your drama queen. :)

Re: Pre-Gastric Bypass | Preparing for Surgery

Brad — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 18:10:57 -0000

@Connie - Wow, what a story! Thanks for sharing and I'll definitely look you up on Myspace!

@Tanya,

Yes if you're asking about before the operation I was limited to mainly protein shakes and a 'reasonable dinner'. It wasn't too bad.

After the operation they have a process that starts with sipping water out of medicine shot cup to slowing going from liquid to soft food to hard food over a matter of 6-8 weeks. All doctors are a bit different in what the recommend to eat afterwards but that was my progression. Hope that helps!

Re: Betting on the future.

Brad — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 15:53:13 -0000

I would say, Tim, you definitely know how I'm feeling and the fraction of success you've garnered is something I'm hoping for on what we're doing.

Re: Gen Y’s - Boomers still got some time left

Brad — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:36:42 -0000

Dang, was hoping for those Grateful Dead albums of yours Ron!

And the thought of <del>putting up</del> working with you for 30 more years sounds <del>dreadful</del> great to me!

:)

Re: Gastric Bypass | Hitting a Plateau

Brad — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:02:28 -0000

Sent you a private message through Ning Norma.

Re: Speaking Evaluations – What’s the value?

Brad — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:39:44 -0000

Solid point. Comments like, "It was okay." or "Good" don't do much for anybody.

Goes back to Seth Godin's being remarkable.

Thanks Mark

Re: A company with a purpose

Brad — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 08:58:45 -0000

Thanks William, that means alot coming from you. Vancity does a great job defining themselves and to do it as such a large institution is no easy task. Kudos to you and your management!

The question who were not right for is always ringing in my head and I think it's a very important one. We want to definitively answer that question at each level of the company and leave our employees with no doubt.

Once we know who is wrong, we can focus in on those that are right.

Re: Why you should blog!

Brad — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:00:38 -0000

Wow, another great article Christopher, thanks for sharing it!

Re: Opportunity Lost – to be on a Board of Directors

Brad — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:02:08 -0000

@Janine - Thank you, that means a lot to me. I would definitely be interested in a school board. Our company is all about opening channels for education. Seems like a good fit!

Re: Opportunity Lost – to be on a Board of Directors

Brad — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:06:44 -0000

@Andy - I obviously agree with you. I would also argue that everything is some form or fashion whether for "fun" or "work" bleeds into every decision you make so every person is affected by their customers, vendors at all times.

Unfortunately, either way, our company couldn't lose that cash flow for me to take a volunteer position...it would not only affect me, it would affect my employees.

Re: Opportunity Lost – to be on a Board of Directors

Brad — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:13:21 -0000

@Doug - Thanks for the offer (I maybe contacting you). I had a question for you that I wanted you to expand on (back on the blog if you could for everyone's benefit).

What did you mean that technology is a burden for your CU? In what ways? Figuring out what's out there or how to implement/choose from what is? Do you feel you're limited due to your size or geography?

Let us know! Your perspective is an interesting one to have!

Re: My Letter to Mr. Email

Brad — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:48:57 -0000

UPDATE: Just had my 1st email check of the day. Had about 40 emails for both accounts, 25% of it was trash, was able to go through and answer all of them and I'm caught up. Wow, that's refreshing.

Side note: I'm been thinking/desiring to check my email all day long.

@JRL - Never read it, but I did get my inspiration from awayfind.com.

@Tim - Join me and break your uncomfortable relationship with emails!

Re: My Letter to Mr. Email

Brad — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 14:19:40 -0000

@Robbie - I haven't read it but I keep up with Tim Ferriss' stuff. I know he's big into delegating. Thanks for the comment brother! BTW, you need to pick up Gear of War 2.

Re: Gen Z considerations – What’s a gas station?

Brad — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:44:21 -0000

Good thought Dan. When I went to the MIT Media Lab a couple of months ago they talked about the future of transportation and showed me the concepts, in their view, for the future of urban city transportation. Pretty interesting, here's an article discussing it if you're interested:

http://faculty.washington.edu/jbs/itrans/MITsma...

Re: I am passionate about financial services!

Brad — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 22:48:25 -0000

@Mick - To me, passion evokes direction.

Give people a purpose and it's amazing how easily they can attain a goals.

Re: 30 days away from Mr. Email

Brad — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:51:57 -0000

@David - Yeah, good point. We've found that even for our applications that setting an adequate 'time to respond' works for alot of our customers. As long as they know their emails are being received and a response with a timeframe comes back, they are generally happy.

@JRL - Very nice! I'm jealous. And my wife isn't allow to complain about email in bed because her iPhone is on the nightstand next to her. She's a Tetris junkie. ;)

Re: Pre-Gastric Bypass | Preparing for Surgery

Brad — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:54:02 -0000

@Billie - Thanks for your note. You might try some of the web services that are out to help. I'm currently using a service called Gyminee.com. It's completely free to use and you're able to track your workouts, food, and find ways to help you lose.

I know it's tough but don't give up! You can do it.

Re: Three weeks out from Gastric Bypass surgery

Brad — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:55:07 -0000

@Les - Keep us up to date on your progress. I hope the surgery goes well for you. Be sure to check out our community site at http://gastricbypass.ning.com and come join the conversation!

Re: Three weeks out from Gastric Bypass surgery

Brad — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 21:55:54 -0000

@John - Thanks man, and good luck on your surgery! Be sure to keep us up to date on your progress.

Re: Gastric Bypass | Hitting a Plateau

Brad — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:29:00 -0000

@Cherish - That's great on your progress, congratulations!

Re: Gastric Bypass | 3 months Post-op

Brad — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:32:56 -0000

Hi Heather,

Gastric Bypass has been a great decision for me. I can pretty much eat anything I want but definitely not the volume as before. With that said, like lapband, it can be beaten. Liquid calories are killers to any surgery. Also understand, that's how its worked for me but others tell different stories.

Good luck on your decision and keep us posted.

Re: Three weeks out from Gastric Bypass surgery

Brad — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 10:33:07 -0000

@Scott - I'd suggest if you're looking to share your story to go to http://gastricbypass.ning.com and sign up. It'll have a blog and you can definitely effect ppl that are interested in going weight loss surgery, thanks for your comment!

Re: What do you want?

Brad — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 10:38:07 -0000

@Tim - You got it. Coming soon...also, I'd like to hear your own stories from a small business owner. Always looking for good suggestions.

Re: Gastric Bypass | 2 year anniversary post-op

Brad — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 12:05:11 -0000

@Everybody - Thanks so much for the encouragement! I tell my story not only to encourage others but also to have people like you to hold me accountable. So don't be afraid to send me a note to do so, thanks again everybody!

Re: Gastric Bypass Surgery | 1 Month Post-Op

Brad — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 12:00:44 -0000

Hi Shar, Chara, and Freda,

I'm so excited for you all! I happy that sharing my story can help anybody, even if it is in some small way. Thanks for the comments!

@Freda - Feel free to email me back if you have additional questions.

Re: Three weeks out from Gastric Bypass surgery

Brad — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 12:01:52 -0000

Good luck Andrea, would love for you to come back on and tell us how the surgery went now that you're in post.

Also, if you haven't already, come join us over at our Gastric Bypass community

http://gastricbypass.ning.com

Thanks!

Re: My Config

Brad — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:27:23 -0000

Yeah, we were a big Q2CTF players. Played it more than DM modes. Good times, and I actually found some Q2 servers still online.

CTF list here

Re: My Config

Brad — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:29:21 -0000

@Chris - high five!

Re: Canon Rebel T1i (500D) Review

Brad — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:03:56 -0000

I'm going to have to take your man card sir talking that way! ;)

As far as the camera, yeah, it's so nice...tell Jonathan to continue to be jealous.

Re: Embracing dependency

Brad — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:06:06 -0000

Great comment JRL. Establishing some ground rules for 'connectedness' before vacation with the spouse is probably always a worthwhile effort so not to rub each other the wrong way.

Hate to start off a great vacation with annoyance ya know?

Re: 5 things the Kindle could do better

Brad — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 20:34:18 -0000

Ken, wow man, thanks for the info. That website is greatness...something I will definitely use. As you stated, looks like it could be improved but hey, I'll take it.

Thanks again!

Re: 5 things the Kindle could do better

Brad — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:03:18 -0000

Ken,

Can't share like we want right now via their website but I can hack out something like this: http://bit.ly/3qlSmW

Just used the Posterous bookmarklet to highlight what I wanted to share and then autoposted it to my blog, Twitter, and Tumblr in one motion.

Just thought I'd share.

Re: My Life Changing Event | Gastric Bypass

Brad — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:26:42 -0000

Hi Liz,

I don't attend any support groups but from time to time I wish I had one to go to...guess that's what my blog has come in good for. :)

Also, I setup a ning community at http://gastricbypass.ning.com with others like us.

I do know, however, that they do exist in the area you may check this website for additional help: http://www.novaweightloss.com/

Thanks for the comment!

Re: Can you dance like Scrivs?

Brad — Fri, 31 Mar 2006 12:20:12 -0000

Colin, dude...for the white boys that can dance ur killing us over here!

Course, you shot yourself in the ass with trying to dance to the music that was playing.