Stories & observations

Don’s notebook

Business lessons, personal moments, communication ideas, and a little New England common sense.

Communication

The Pause Before the Answer

A practical reflection on listening, resisting the first conclusion, and asking the question that changes a conversation.

Business stories

What Donut Wars Still Teaches

Three durable lessons about local loyalty, customer habits, and competitive blind spots in Don Saracen's Donut Wars story.

Personal storytelling

The Story Is in the Details

What the many faces of Ms. Rachie remind us about character, specificity, and telling personal stories people remember.

Taking action

PROSPECTING in the NEW ECONOMY

Why disciplined prospecting, referrals, and thoughtful follow-up still keep the sales funnel healthy.

Communication

Listening: Can You Hear Me Now?

Listening past the first assumption can improve decisions, relationships, and customer conversations.

Communication

Storytelling for Business

How a personal story can frame an idea, make a business message memorable, and move an audience to act.

Business stories

Donut Wars!

A New England business story about Krispy Kreme, Dunkin' Donuts, and the cost of underestimating the competition.

Taking action

MENTORS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Why candid feedback, objectivity, and a trusted sounding board can change a professional's next move.

Taking action

Taking the Next Step

Ideas become useful when someone takes responsibility, sets a timeline, and turns intention into execution.

Taking action

Your Next Move

A sales story about change, research, relationships, and finding opportunity when a major account shifts.

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Published articles