I've had Chase Hughes' Six-Minute X-Ray and The Ellipsis Manual sitting on my shelf way too long. These aren't light reads—Hughes is a behavior expert who trained intelligence operatives, and these books break down how to rapidly read people, detect deception, and understand what's really going on beneath the surface of any conversation. I'm applying to attend one of his retreats, so this would be a great way to go deeper on the material before learning from him directly. Figured it's time to stop letting them collect dust and actually work through them together. Mastermind style—read, discuss, apply. Who's in?

This is a reminder for anyone who's in marketing. If you want to find a way to collaborate. This is the best chance to jump on and have a discussion.

Welcome - I’m glad you’re here. This community is built for local business owners, but marketers bring valuable perspective and I’m genuinely happy to have you. Here’s how this works best for everyone: This is a collaboration space, not a sales floor. Business owners come here to learn and connect, not to get pitched in the comments. I’m protective of that environment. So here’s what I ask: Before you start engaging in discussions, let’s have a quick one-on-one conversation. I want to understand what you’re working on, share what I’m building, and see if there’s a way we can help each other grow. I’m actively looking for collaboration opportunities - partnerships, referrals, joint ventures, whatever makes sense. If that’s why you’re here, we’ll probably get along great. If you’re just here to find clients to DM, this isn’t the right fit. Reach out and let’s chat. I’m easy to talk to and genuinely curious about what other marketers are building in this space.

For marketers, this is really great data that you can pull from very reputable sources for local business owners. Just know Metro Cool is a winner, and if you need an affiliate link, I can provide one. @Danica Labide can you dig it out and post it in the comments?

You’re here because you know referrals are your lifeblood, but you’re tired of competing alone against businesses with bigger budgets. Here’s what this community is about: I’m sharing the digital marketing strategies that actually work for local businesses - the stuff I’m testing in real time with my own Houston proof-of-concept. The approach is simple: • Google-centric (your Google Business Profile is a goldmine most businesses ignore) • Video content that builds trust and visibility • CRM follow-up that turns leads into customers (non-negotiable) • AI to streamline everything so you’re not buried in busywork And here’s the thing: all of it can be done from your phone. Watch the welcome video below to see if this approach fits how you want to grow. This isn’t theory. I’m documenting what works as I build it. You get to see the strategies, the results, and the mistakes - all in real time. If you’re ready to stop throwing money at ads and start building a real local presence, you’re in the right place.