Why breastfeed? The benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated their guidelines around breastfeeding, now supporting continued breastfeeding until two years or beyond, as mutually desired by the mother and child. Breast milk is and always has been the most optimal source of nutrition for a growing baby, and if breastfeeding is an option for the mother, that is the top recommended practice for giving babies the nutrients they need.... Read More

Is there relief in sight for housing prices?

Prices for new and existing homes across the United States have been rising for the past couple of years. This increase has been fueled by several factors: historically low mortgage rates, a low existing home supply, and increased labor and materials costs. Is there relief in sight? ... Read More

Pet-friendly perks are valuable to employees

During the COVID-19 pandemic, animal adoptions skyrocketed as employees working from home sought out new (and furry) office mates. But with some companies transitioning back to office life, workers are wondering how their pets will cope without them.... Read More

It takes a community to support community

When is the last time you stopped to think about how your business gives back to the community? I did. And what I realized is that no matter the size of the contribution, it all adds up to build camaraderie, engagement, and culture—all critical elements of a healthy and attractive workplace.... Read More

Here’s why we can’t communicate

I learned a long time ago that a large part of serving as the marketing partner for companies is acting as a translator and cultural attaché. No, I’m not multilingual or an expert in etiquette, but so much of what we do involves bridging gaps between people.... Read More

The most powerful phrase you can use

Usually, I use this platform to offer advice about marketing or tips on how to write better. Today, I’m here with a different kind of counsel. One capable of bringing out the best from your employees, friends, and family members, while strengthening your relationship with them.... Read More

Need to hire? Knowledge is power

Hiring is hard right now. Statistics from the Indy Chamber show that the Indiana labor participation rate has plateaued with just a 1.4% change from April 2021 to 2022. Meanwhile There are 5.8% more job postings. Instead of posting and coasting, make a choice to use data and become a competitive hiring force.... Read More

Teens and credit: How to help your graduate get ahead

This summer, high school graduates are in the midst of an exciting season in their lives. Many are heading to college while others are going straight into the workforce, ready to start their careers. For parents, this can be an anxious time. Children are leaving home for the first time and parents want to make sure their kids succeed in every facet of life, including financially.... Read More

Investing for the long term is more than just talk

We always encourage our clients to think long-term about their investments. This is not just an empty platitude; we encourage it because it works. With markets going haywire this year, trying to avoid further losses can be tempting, but that often ends up hurting more than it helps.... Read More

How consistent, healthy meal access impacts Hoosier families in crisis

Partnerships are everything to nonprofits. For Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana (RMHCCIN), which provides a supportive home away from home for families of children receiving medical care at Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health and other area hospitals, and Second Helpings, a community kitchen that prepares and delivers more than one million meals to the Central Indiana community each year, the last thing they want individuals to think about is where they’re getting their next meal.... Read More

Remember when the customer was right?

“The customer is always right.” That mantra was instilled in me early on at my first job in high school.  It was in small-business retail which emphasized service and the importance of our customers. ... Read More

Business growth: Get tactical

The good news is, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 80% of businesses survive their first year. Fifty percent survive their fifth year. The bad news is, only 30% survive their tenth year of operation. Businesses need to constantly try new things and strive for growth. As the saying goes “You grow or you die.”... Read More

The education system has all the talent it needs

Your social media feed will inundate you with the grim statistics about the state of our education system nationally. Students are falling further behind, and teacher talent is at a crisis shortage level. The pandemic didn’t cause this; it just exacerbated it.... Read More

Loans from The Bank of…. Mom and Dad?

Loan interest rates are rising. At the same time, interest earnings on savings accounts and CDs aren't exactly setting the world on fire!  So what if a family member offers to finance your upcoming purchase instead of using the bank? The borrower avoids dealing with traditional financing and the interest paid stays in the family. Sounds like a win-win, right?! Not so fast. ... Read More

Housing is critical infrastructure for Indiana’s economic development

While uncertainties have clouded the national economic outlook, 2022 has produced a steady stream of positive news for Indiana through July – new business attraction and expansion projects worth nearly $17 billion (a record-setting pace), unemployment below 2.5%, personal income growth outpacing the U.S. by nearly 20% over the past year-and-a-half.... Read More

How we can all help preserve the White River, and why it matters

Everything starts somewhere. For the White River, it’s in a farmer’s field in Randolph County just south of Winchester. The river winds its way through farms, woodlands, industrial sites, small towns, and even big cities, eventually feeding into other rivers that take the waters to the Mississippi River. ... Read More