Day 2 – Getting down to business!
After a hell of a long travel day yesterday it’s time to get busy and make this trip worth the effort. I was locked down in meetings from about 1pm this afternoon until after dinner. I’m feeling extremely optimistic about the opportunities in this state and even if the trip ended now it would be worth the travel, cost, and effort. There is nothing in business that compares to an in-person meeting, that’s where true lasting relationships and partnerships are formed. It does not matter what industry you are in or what you are trying to accomplish, get off your ass and go meet in person about it. It’s the only way to make your business relationships last. I’ve got a huge day full of meetings tomorrow but I’ve come all this way so I’ll be sure to do some exploring tonight. I’ve heard there is a ‘world-famous’ chocolate factory right near my hotel, I might go let out my inner child!
Exploring random cities is a ton of fun, I often just strap on the running shoes and go for epic walks when I’m in new cities. Partly because I love exploring new places, but mostly just because there is not a lot to do when you’re on an epic solo business trip like this. One of the cool places I found on my adventure was the office of the local U.S. Senator. I was hoping to drop in to let them know that their president is completely fucked, but they were closed…and I’m sure they already knew that.
What really blows my mind down here as a Canadian in America is that they literally have signs up indicating if firearms are allowed. Damn that makes me uncomfortable, like how many people down here are carrying guns around? I’m sure there are a ton of opinions about this but honestly it makes me super uncomfortable to think that everyone has a gun. Does that really make things safe? No. Take a look at the gun violence stats and try and tell me that America is safer because the citizens are armed, it’s pure bullshit.
On a separate note, but one I want to write about tonight, it’s a VERY GOOD IDEA not to talk about politics when in business situations. As a Canadian and an informed citizen of the world I’m aware of the political situation in America. I honestly never bring up politics but literally any time I have an extended conversation with an American it seems that we must chat about Trump. Once they find out that you are not American they seem fascinated to hear your perspective on the fucked-up situation. Luckily, I didn’t have to bite my tongue too much because today’s version of this conversation was reasonable lol.
Well, I crushed my meetings and had an epic walk around town so I think it’s finally time for some of that greasy chocolate I was telling you about… It’s alright, diets don’t count when you’re traveling LOL!
Tune in tomorrow for the DAY 3 update on the epic American road-trip.
Peace out friends!