About
Business owner, personal brand evangelist, chronic dog rescuer (let’s call it what it is), accidental comedian, and unapologetically Michigan-made.
Musings Writer
Meet Bode
I’ve run this circus for almost 20 years, and I still find new ways to trip over my own feet. Owning 8THIRTYFOUR means I’m always juggling—clients, campaigns, and the occasional dog rescue (eight and counting, because apparently I have no self-control). I started Small Biz Musings because business ownership is a wild ride, and I wanted a place to share the wins, the faceplants, and all the weird stuff in between.
I coach and speak on personal branding because I’ve lived it. I know what it’s like to build a business from scratch, to say yes to things you have no business saying yes to, and to figure it out as you go. My talks and workshops are equal parts strategy, storytelling, and “here’s what not to do unless you want a good story for later.” I believe in showing up, giving more than you take, and never pretending you have it all together—because nobody does, and that’s where the good stuff happens.
If you’re looking for polished perfection, you’re in the wrong place. If you want real talk, lots of laughs, and a dog photo or ten, pull up a chair.
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My biggest inspiration, passion and therapy comes from other business owners. @b.razor.scharp and I try to meet semi-regularly to talk all things small business, consume lots of caffeine and leave knowing we’re not in this alone.
Just singing to Joey the Doberman and really enjoying the 20 acres and no neighbors as I belt out Fancy by @reba - a personal favorite.
I truly hope you Google the lyrics of this song, it will further cement this moment in your head.
The BBB aka Big Brutal Blow
(pic is how I feel)
This isn’t just policy failure—it’s a moral failure.
You are cowards, every single one of you who voted for this, who looked the other way, who put self-preservation ahead of the people you swore to serve. You have chosen to please a tyrant instead of protecting your districts. You have made it clear: small businesses, vulnerable populations, and working families are expendable to you.
If you’re not standing with small businesses, you’re standing in the way of Michigan’s future.
Full blog at www.smallbizmusings.com - link in bio
@derekdickow @powerconnections what a great event you’ve put together. So glad @smallbusinessassocofmichigan was able to be a small part of it. Looking forward to Day 2.
I can’t wait to see all the female speakers on the roster next year.
I’m on a boat.
I’m on a boat, I’m on a boat
Everybody look at me ‘cause I’m sailing on a boat (whoa)
I’m on a boat, I’m on a boat
Take a good hard look at the motherf*ckin’ boat.
(sh*t is heavy and you can be in it, like really paying attention and still set time aside to recharge - cause we gotta fight another day)
The @smallbusinessassocofmichigan Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship graduated the inaugural cohort. What a ride it has been.
I had no idea what to expect when mapping out the program, vetting the WOSBs, developing the curriculum, mentorship and coaching…let’s just say it exceeded all my expectations.
Congrats to the ten women who came, conquered and impressed along the way - you’re amazing.
The second cohort will launch in September, go to sbamwef.org for more info.
First photo is me feeling a bit verklempt, to which i said “goddammit Bode, get it together” very loudly into the mic.
Last photo is the plant I like to sit in at SBAM board meetings.
