Doug is a minimalist. His Facebook page contains little more than pictures of his dog (Tag) and tasty recipes. Doug is an “idea” person passionate about new technologies and the ever‐expanding world of consumer‐created content. Doug has a big heart for companies that aspire to make real differences in people’s lives and has a knack for guiding them through the pathways to make that happen. His work has helped Amazon.com grow from 100,000 customers to more than 10 million in less than three years; inspired millions of young adults to abandon boring burgers and jump on the Taco Bell train; established Sun Microsystems as an essential ingredient for mobile technologies; and transformed Jamba Juice from an afternoon treat into a morning destination. During his 25+ years in marketing communications, he’s helped hundreds of clients in dozens of categories go from good to great. Plus, he’s a must‐have in a meeting because he always brings an exceptional treat baked in his kitchen with his sous chef, Tag.
Melinda says, “Doug has an extraordinary mind and is one of the most astute strategists I have partnered with! Doug always does his homework (deeply researching) and then shares insights with a quiet, calm grace that gets right to the heart of the matter and leads forward with smart strategic recommendations that build upon that knowledge. Doug is my go-to guy when I know someone who needs a high-level marketing strategy!”
VoltageXchange is a consultancy that works with leaders of next-step companies.
Next Step companies are in a state of change from launching to scaling. Our approach is simple, fast, and effective. VoltageXchange offers the critical skill sets of our team (talent) without burdensome outlays of time or cash (cost), amplifying your business (scale) while seamlessly integrating into your current workflow (ease) and driving results (success).
Recently, we had a chance to sit down with Doug –
How do you work with Zumifi?
I’ve partnered with Zumifi on several consulting projects during the past year on business-critical assignments helping companies needing help take a big step forward.
What do you appreciate most about working with Zumifi?
Smart Enthusiasm – Zumifi combines spot-on strategic sensibility with an infectious can-do spirit that always ends with ideas/plans that are game-changing but also easy to implement.
Did you have a mentor?
I’ve had many. But as odd as this may sound, my most important mentor has been the collective knowledge of our digital sharing culture. So many brilliant minds share knowledge and learning via regular content contributions – I call it Wisdomsourcing. If you read/listen smartly, you learn quickly. The collective ‘crowd’ is an amazing mentor if we pay attention correctly.
What’s the worst job you have ever had?
At 15, I dressed up as a rabbit to hand out Easter promotional fliers for a health food store during a heat wave. Of course, I did things growing up on a much worse farm, but I wasn’t paid for those.
Which three words would you use to describe yourself?
- Calm.
- Curious.
- Considerate.
What’s the best thing that happened to you recently? Why?
So easy. CUBS WINNING THE WORLD SERIES!! The first one since 1908 – my grandmother wasn’t born until 1914.