To: Bob Sherman

When I was thinking of starting a blog I had a million ideas, but I kept coming back to a blog I read over and over.  It was called "Great Sellers Go To Heaven."  It was created by Bob Sherman President/CEO of Double O Radio and a member of the Pilot Group.  Bob would share his 40 + years of sales insight that would clearly make you feel better about yourself and others after reading.

Bob Sherman hired me to serve as general manager of the company's two radio stations in Columbia.  I had history with these stations and knew the market well.  What I did not know at the time was the job as GM would mold me in ways I never thought possible.  I remember the moment I agreed to take the job Bob said "now we'll see the real Tim Miller."  I now know when Bob made that statement he understood what was coming...I didn't. Bob knew the challenges ahead and was still willing to hire me in a position that six other mangers had left.

I remember the phone calls where Bob would lead and encourage me and others where he would rail me against the wall and at the end say "remember I still love you."  That was Bob Sherman.  I recall one night Bob called my cell at 10:45PM.  I answered by saying "I thought someone of your age would be sleeping by now."  His reply:  "Sleeping? Hell, I just got off the treadmill!"  You could pick at Bob, however, had to walk softly he's still the boss...but he loved it!   We talked for more than an hour.  He asked about sales for the day then went from story to story about things in his career. I soaked it all in what a life!  He then spoke about his special needs child...it was at that moment I knew this was one of life's indelible moments.  The next summer Bob died from cancer.  I knew he had health issues however, most everyone had no idea it was that bad.  I often think of how great it would have been if he could have seen the turnaround of the two Columbia stations.  After seven years we finally broke even and started to make money!  What a concept!  I now realize he did in fact see our success because Great Sellers Go To Heaven and that's where Bob Sherman lives.

My blog is dedicated to Bob.  I just added the word "All." I hope whatever insight I can bring lives up to the motto that was at the end of every correspondence Bob wrote.

Love Your Work and Work Tirelessly
Communicate Honestly and Fearlessly
Serve, Don't Sell
Collapse Time
Teamwork