Hello friends, It has been awhile since I last provided an update as to what Interesting Project(s) I have undertaken since I first shared my new venture, SIP with Jim (A Series of Interesting Projects). When my last employer determined my role was no longer needed, I sought to redefine what it is I do, and try to find roles in which people valued what I do. It has been a fascinating couple of months.
After a set schedule for the past 40+ years of regular employment, finding a rhythm each week has been elusive. I feel like I have never been busier. I am trying to find a much better balance of work/life, making life the priority. I make time for me (though still not enough), get my pickleball ball in, get to Giants/Oakland Ballers games, have quality family time, and keep my professional skills honed with conversations with many fascinating people.
As for the projects, here is a snap shot of a few of them:
--Helping a small family winery with a large amount of backstock they need to sell and review their business operations
--Working with wineries (four currently) to create an active Winery on the Road program, creating wine buying gatherings in their best clients homes.
--Developing a comprehensive tour program with Sonoma County itineraries for a luxury tour company.
--Helping winery clients with an innovative approach to partnerships with other wineries and local businesses (I am a "rising tides" evangelist).
--Rekindled a lot of relationships (networking my ass off) with wineries, wine professionals, really cool people, and people I enjoy and respect.
--Connected people with others that could benefit both.
Does this pay the bills? I believe it will. Do I think this is the right direction? I like and respect my boss a great deal and believe in him. Do I have a lot to offer to this industry I love so much? Damn straight. Do I have room for more projects? Yes I do.
I love when I can help small family wineries sell wine directly to their customers. The DTC world is going through a painful cycle at the moment and many wineries may not make it. There are a lot of really smart people befuddled by what to do next. My simple answer is--Not the same thing!
I am so optimistic that this business is going to rebound and figure it out. I would love to have a conversation with you to discuss the possibilities.
Thanks for sticking around to the very end. Make sure you support your small family wineries and businesses. Buy an extra few bottles for the holidays. Get together with friends and neighbors you haven't seen in awhile and share a bottle or four. Pick up the phone and call someone you have lost touch with. Do things that make other people smile.
Peace.
Jim