The Colonel's Forum

That's what they called the orientation sessions at my first consulting job back in 2000. They had some senior partner teach us how to shake hands and smile at our clients. He told us to wear clothes made from synthetic fibers because they look more expensive than natural fibers. Let's just say this guy wasn't exactly in touch with reality. He was pretty much just teaching us how to not make our new employer look bad when we were out on an "engagement" - what us consultants call a project. I've moved around to three different consulting organizations since then, and I can confirm that consulting is a funny business. Companies hire us to tell them things they should already know, and to solve problems that they should be able to solve on their own. We charge high hourly rates, and we charge our clients for our travel expenses as well, both of which are standard practices across this industry. Still, consulting in the US is a multi-billion dollar a year i...

Mrs. Brann and I just returned from a week on St. John, which is quite possibly the most beautiful 20 square miles of beach front property in the US. Spring has been slow in coming to the Bluegrass this year, so the weather down there was a nice change of pace. Most of St. John is a national park , and I can't think of a better way to put our tax dollars to work than maintaining some of the finest beaches in the world. There is even an underwater snorkeling trail, and I can now say from experience that it will take your breath away. Upon our return, we were able to lose some money during opening weekend at Keeneland. It was cold and overcast, but this just solidified my long standing theory that there is no such thing as a bad day at the races. We even got to meet up with Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Branic Esq., who were visiting from the Circle City. Sunday I was able to talk them into a trip to Woodford Reserve distillery, my spiritual home (HAHAHA!!!), and I think it's safe t...