Mark's Blog
July 13, 2011
Conquering the Fear of Asking
In my mid-twenties, I developed a motto for my life that was “face your fear.” Over the years, after much self-reflection and many conversations with my wife, I changed this motto to “identify your fears and break through them.” This motto seems more appropriate, for facing your fear is great, but moving past your fear… Read More
January 24, 2011
Tattoos on the Heart
I just finished reading a wonderful book called “Tattoos on the Heart” written by Gregory Boyle (Father Greg), a Jesuit priest and the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, CA. Father Greg has been working with gang members in the LA area since the late 1980’s. His book is filled with many inspirational and heart wrenching… Read More
May 6, 2010
The Fackler Five
These are some conclusions about running a business that I have come to after 19 years in Vistage and working with hundreds of CEOs. 1) If you are worried about an action that has to be taken, you have already waited too long so do it now. 2) Partnerships are tough. Consider owning the business… Read More
September 19, 2008
10 Commandments of Networking for a Job
I visited a meeting of Vistage Chairs in Los Angeles this week. One Vistage Chair shared a few documents that were some of his best practices. This document on networking I thought was well written and worth publishing on my website. I see way too many very talented executives who are not prepared to find… Read More
July 13, 2008
A Comeback In Ironman Switzerland
Over the years, I have had a few goals regarding Ironman. The first goal was to actually finish an Ironman. I did that in 2002 in Florida. The next goal was to do two so I could say it was not a fluke that I did one. I achieved that goal in 2003 in Coeur… Read More
August 30, 2007
Giving From Joy, Not Guilt
Since becoming Chairman of San Diego Social Venture Partners (SDSVP), I have written 3 short items for the newsletter. I have asked you for money for the endowment, thoughts on what our goals should be and finally referrals for new members. As I look back, I sound like quite the needy person. That is not… Read More