Allen Hunt's Blog

Contrary to country music beliefs, there is an Arizona.

Our team (Andy, Phil, and I) have made our way today to Scottsdale to share in the Talk Media Conference with Dan Patrick, Dave Ramsey, Kim Komando and others. It promises to be a fun week for us as newcomers to the talk radio field.

I will post observations and experiences over these three days.

First on the agenda - I really do hate flying. Not because I am afraid of flying but the whole commercial airline experience is just lousy. From the ridiculous long lines for security (the new normal in a post-9/11 Muslim terror world), to walking through a machine without my belt and shoes, the airport experience is just plain lousy. Makes me realize how much I love my little world at home - full of convenience and control, both of which I lose when traveling aerodynamically

So, we are flying from ATL to Phoenix. Of course, we are flying coach. Of course, as a middle aged man, I have to use the bathroom. I am asked to wait at the entrance to the first class section for the lavatory to become available. Another gentleman has beaten me to the stall. So I stand and wait -not in the first class section where the lavatory actually is - but at the front of the coach section so that my waiting does not annoy the "first class passengers."

The man in the lavatory evidently has much business to tend to. I wait for 5 minutes. Patiently (of course - waiting is a real strength for me - NOT). The coach passengers in the front row are now tired of my waiting in their space. But I persist - I will not be deterred. I am a patient waiter. After 10 minutes, the gentleman emerges from the lavatory. And I gain entrance. God is good.

No point here really. Just venting how very frustrating I find the airline travel industry and experience now. Maybe next time I'll pull a John Madden and use a train or bus.

PS - Forgot to mention before- check out the team photos on the web site. We finally got Ron, our #1 call screener, to pose for a shot. He looks great!

Lots of good reading this summer. Here are the three best business/leadership books I have read.

1) Made to Stick - by Chip and Dan Heath.
What a great book! Focuses on why some ideas make it and others fade away. 6 great principles for communicating as a manager, leader, or speaker. Great for preachers as well - how to make sure folks get and remember your message. One of ten best books of last 10 years in my opinion.

2) The Five Dysfunctions of a Team - Patrick Lencioni
Excellent memorable work that teaches by narrative. Great insight into how to lead and direct a team. Helpful for business, church, education or even volunteer work.

3) Good to Great - Jim Collins
Everyone has heard of this by now. Came out several years ago. But makes the important distinction that leadership is about results and about humility - not ego or stature. Great lessons for a leader.