Summer Beers You Can Probably Find

It's summer time in Chicago, and that means a lot of outdoor activities. Every weekend is a different fair or festival, outdoor dining and neighborhood gatherings. The weather has been perfect. Happiness requires work life balance, so after you take off your tie it's time to unwind, kick back and enjoy your summertime, wherever you are.

And as I reflect on this summer, I wanted to share a few seasonal beers that you can probably find at your local restaurant or grocery store.

5. Goose Island, Summertime

Goose Island is somewhat of a staple in Chicago. I was introduced to it my first trip to this city. You can bet on finding at least one of their beers, like Honkers Ale or 312 in any bar or restaurant in the area. And honestly, it's great beer. I even hear my buddy in Oklahoma came across some 312. They are not everywhere, but the closer you are to here, the more likely you will see that goose head.

Here's what they say:
"The color of sunshine, with a light fruity aroma and a hint of fruity acidity, Goose Island Summertime is the perfect summer session ale. A Kölsch beer brewed in the traditional German fashion, you’ll find yourself enjoying and savoring each sip of summertime as much as you do those hot summer days and cool summer nights."

What do I say? Solid choice, really good when it's hot outside as long as it's ice cold. This one is an easy drink, though I've noticed some of their other ales are a bit hoppy.  Best thing, you can surely find it in Chicago and it's showing up further and further from the windy city.


4. Big Sky Summer Honey Ale
Big Sky is one of my favorite breweries, most notably for their Moose Drool Brown Ale. That said, I do love their other beers, like this one.

Here's what they say:
"It’s a full flavored, refreshing summer seasonal. This well-balanced brew has a unique blend of spices, which complement the European hops. The honey lightens up the body and helps to blend taste with aroma without making the beer too sweet."

What do I say?
It's nice to see a summer that doesn't tout lemon or citrus flavors. Not that I don't like that, I do. But a honey and spice beer is a nice summer change. Plus, maybe it's the redneck in me, but I love Big Sky. I love their names of beer, there wild life bottles, there snappy saying on their caps (Dispose of in nearest truck bed). Well done, Big Sky.

3. Bell's Oberon Ale
This brewery gets a lot of mind share around these parts, and for good reason. Bell's is out of Kalamazoo, MI and makes some solid brews. It's craft enough that not everyone has it, but common enough that if a place has a good beer selection, they probably have something Bell's. And they make a ton of year round, specialty and seasonal brews. I also like it because as my wife picks up wine at Trader Joe's, I can grab a sixer. We love Trader Joe's, but that probably deserves it's own article.

Here's what they say:
"The heart of our summer lineup, Oberon Ale offers a refreshing mix of malted wheat flavor and fruity notes, wrapped up in a distinctively citrusy hop aroma. Brewed around the concept of balance, Oberon brings a moderate bodied yet full-flavored ale to the table that complements all manner of summer activities."

What do I say? 
Can't go wrong with anything Bell's. It's heavier than other summer brews and a bit hoppier, but for real beer lovers, you'll like this one.

2. Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy
I have had some ups and downs with this brewery, but I have to give them props for the selection. I did once have a beer that tasted like Fruity Pebbles. Now I do love Fruity Pebbles (who doesn't), but I do not love Fruity Pebble beer.  I do, on the other hand, like a refreshing lemonade style beer.

Here's what they say:
"A Shandy is beer brewed with a little something extra. Leinenkugel's® Summer Shandy® is crisp wheat beer brewed with natural lemonade flavor which makes it a perfect summertime refresher for those sun-splashed summer days."

What do I say?
Good, refreshing, serve very cold. Even my wife likes this beer, and she's not a beer fan. You might consider the  Lemon Berry Shandy as well, though I have not yet braved it. I don't want a breakfast cereal repeat.


1. Sam Adams Summer Ale
God Bless Sam Adams. Now I know some out there won't agree. You beer connoisseurs that only want to drink the most obscure craft selection. I get it, you want to try new things. And remind everyone that you try new things. You're like the speakeasy goer in the beer community. I get it.

But, you have to give Sam some serious respect. Sam Adams took good beer and made it as mainstream as a Miller Light or Budweiser. They have a fantastic selection, you can find it anywhere, and it's reasonably priced. And, if their commercials are to be believed, they really really really care about beer. I respect that. I always say, do what you love. And so, I give top honors to their Summer Ale.

Here's what they say:
"Crisp and tangy with refreshing lemon peel and a hint of pepper from rare Grains of Paradise.  Golden, hazy, & thirst quenching, this American wheat ale balances bright citrus, Noble hops & spice for a lively brew that’s perfect on any summer day."

What do I say?
This is the perfect selection for your summer barbecue, you 4th of July, your lazy Friday night. It's not overbearing with the lemon, the pepper and spice provide balance.  Plus, when entertaining, this is a great balance between the mainstream or the obscure. I will say, I love the Porch Rocker, which is a lot more citrusy, like a lemonade beer. If your feeling daring, give it a try.


There are a ton of great breweries and summer beers out there, so if these don't quench your thirst, look around, but these are some great go-to summers that are easy to find. Happy Summer!

Three Professional Development Tests Your Team Should Take

You know what I love?  Professional Development Tests. You know, those tests your boss makes you take to learn more about yourself and how you like to work and what your communication style is and if you like groups, or if you like data, or if you like creative freedom or if you like colors, or numbers or sushi or ketchup on your fries.... The list goes on and on and on.

Some tests are a hundred questions and some are less than ten. Really, the professional development industry has exploded (or maybe I just started paying attention).  Hmm, seems like something I should look into... but I digress.


I know what you're thinking. I've got to be kidding right? Who likes those tests? People take them once and then shelve the books forever. Really, here is my shelf. 

But I say don't dismiss them so quickly. Find some good ones and then, as a team, go through your results. You are bound to find some "Yep, that sounds like you!" and "I don't do that."  But at the end, I'll bet you have a better understanding of each other and yourself. It just might make you work better together.

 Just as not to be too painful, I've limited this to three. Check them out, and learn a little more about me.


3. Standout by Marcus Buckingham
This is an interesting test that shows your value. It outlines how people can challenge you, when to come to you and how you like to be recognized.

I'm an Equalizer /Stimulator - "You're an activist. When you are rallying support for issues close to your heart, you have unstoppable energy, vitality and strength. Standing up for the rights of the underprivileged, bringing injustices to public consciousness, motivating and supporting people to stand up for themselves and others -- in short, any activity where you are lending your talents to create a more just and fairer world is deeply satisfying to you. You bring an optimistic quality to your fight, an enthusiasm that infuses others with the energy to do what's right."

Accuracy = Kinda Close

2.  How to Fascinate by Sally Hogshead
I just recently took my team through this exercise. You can take the test and learn what your fascination triggers are for a reasonable price. Buy the next level and you can learn how to craft you 9-second fascinate statement.  I would say this one is a very feel good and light test. But don't let that detract from it's value, our team had a great time with it.

I'm the The Advocate. I am Dynamic, Inclusive and Engaging.  
"YOU ARE THE ADVOCATE. YOUR ATTRACTIVE AND EXPRESSIVE PERSONALITY ENABLES YOU TO INFLUENCE OTHERS.

• You are a champion of people and ideas, and your energy makes you an active, resonant voice for groups.
• Your unique ability to connect with and inspire people is complimented by an inherent desire to create opportunity and make things happen.
• You’re extroverted, gregarious and personable. A gifted conversationalist, you have the ability to draw people in and keep them hanging on your every word.
• You are creative and artistic but your POWER trigger means you work in a way that compels people to like and respect you for it. The attraction you generate inspires participation, thereby making you highly influential."

Accuracy = Really Close

1. Strength Finder 2.0 by Tom Rath
So, this isn't by any means new.  This is, however, the one that taught me the most, both about me, and about those I work with. Many people post there strengths on their cube or office door. I found it incredibly enlightening, as I took this rather early in my career. I've heard that by taking it again after several years you may see that your strengths have changed.

1. Woo - (Winning Over Others) People who are especially talented in the Woo theme love the challenge of meeting new people and winning them over. They derive satisfaction from breaking the ice and making a connection with another person.

2. Communication - People who are especially talented in the Communication theme generally find it easy to put their thoughts into words. They are good conversationalists and presenters.

3. Achiever -  People who are especially talented in the Achiever theme have a great deal of stamina and work hard. They take great satisfaction from being busy and productive.

4. Input - People who are especially talented in the Input theme have a craving to know more. Often they like to collect and archive all kinds of information.

5. Connectedness - People who are especially talented in the Connectedness theme have faith in the links between all things. They believe there are few coincidences and that almost every event has a reason.

Accuracy - Wow, it's like they know me!


So take some time and invest a little in yourself and your team. It's a nice way to refresh and renew while learning more.

Some day maybe I'll have my own test our there. The "Turn it up Some Test"!

I'd like to point out that "Turn it up some" is from a Trace Atkins song. My sister told me I was ripping it off and I want to give credit where credit is due. Hey Trace, thanks for turnin' it up some!

Tie Tuesday -It's a thing.

A month ago I wore a tie on a Tuesday. Another guy at work noticed and asked if it was for "Tie Tuesday". What is this "Tie Tuesday"? I had never heard of such a thing. Could it be? A legit reason to wear a tie once a week that wouldn't spark the question, "Are you interviewing or something?" Yes, I do believe it was for Tie Tuesday. And so, I started expanding my tie selection and honoring "Tie Tuesday".

Where I Work
I love where I work. It's truly the best company I've every had the pleasure to serve. But, it's important that I explain my work environment. Ties are uncommon. More than uncommon, unheard of. Unless your a contractor or consultant, you don't wear a tie and definitely not a suit. Our dress code is pretty casual, and I appreciate that, believe me. If I want to wear jeans and a polo, that is fine with everyone else. And on Fridays, I do.

This is becoming very common place in the modern work environment. It speaks to respecting what's on the inside, that we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover and so on. It also makes it very simple to show a little extra effort, because, regardless about how we feel, it is human nature to pass judgement upon initial impressions and appearances.

You may recall I said I wanted to turn it up some in my professional attire. And so, I started, or am attempting to start a trend, a work attire revolution with "Tie Tuesday". So far, I have one or two guys following my lead. Hey, it's a start.






Turning It Up 
"Tie Tuesday" shows a little extra effort and makes your memorable.

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not so shallow as to think the guy with the best clothes should have it made. I believe you should work hard and success and good fortune should come your way. Like magic. Like getting your college degree. It should come with guarantees. It doesn't.

The truth is, if people don't know you, remember you, and associate you, the brand of you, with something that's good for the company, you may be missing your chance. Wearing a tie once a week is less about a a piece of fabric around your neck, it's more about standing out, standing up and showing your best.  I'd like to point out here, I am growing to be quite a fan of Charles Tyrwhitt. They had a free tie offer. And I love free stuff.

Make It Your Own
So, if you don't work in a tie everyday environment, then I encourage you to give "Tie Tuesday" a try. If you do, make it "Suit Tuesday". "French Cuff Tuesday", "Bow Tie Tuesday." Make it something that works for you. Be ready for some critiquing from your coworkers like, "Did somebody die?" and "Looking for a new job?" But gently remind them, "It's Tie Tuesday, I like to wear a tie sometimes". They may laugh. They may say they never want to wear a tie again. But some will follow your lead. And for sure, they will remember you. And that's important when you need to be remembered. Like when it's time for talent reviews. Or when you are looking for your next step in the company. Or when you want the open office!

Tie Tuesday isn't going to make you or me the next amazing manager. No instant promotion for your dapper style. But it does show you care enough to add a little extra to your level of professionalism.
It's a little way you can turn it up some at work.

Also, this doesn't have to be an expensive hobby. Some of my favorite ties are thrift shop or estate sale finds. What to look for in tie thriting:

1. Check for stains and snags - People eat in their ties and they turn into decorative bibs. Tie cleaning, in my experience, is not the easiest. Also, older ties often have a thick weave to them that can snag.  Make sure the fabric is intact.

2. Feel the weight - Many older ties will have brand names you have never heard of, which is actually kind of cool. Look for hand woven silk and padding in the tie. Is it heavy or very light? I prefer a heavy tie. You can feel the quality.

3. Keep it simple - Look for stripes or medallions to match your shirts. I'm always weary of the abstract art or tie-die. Do your own thing, but keep it classy.

4. Don't spend to much - I am all for paying for quality if you can afford it. But hey, I got kids and a mortgage. If you are new tie shopping and can afford it, go for it. But my favorite tie was literally $0.50. It's a thin black and silver from the 50s, very thin and impossible to find new.

5. Know what you're looking for - Remember what shirts you have and what you would like to match. If you get in to tie thrifting, you could end up with hundreds or thousands of ties if you're not careful. Know what you want or you'll end up buying it all.


I hope you have fun with it, after all, what's life without fun. Turn it up some.

Top 7 Reasons to Follow Me and Turn It Up Some

Top 7 Reasons To Follow Me and Turn it Up Some. 


I've noticed as I read my daily news, I love lists. Funny movie lists, crazy plot twist lists, best style lists, lists about ties, or people you meet in college, whatever. I think we are predetermined to like lists because we know how many are left as we read. We are not committing an unknown amount of energy getting sucked in by an article we may not even like.

I also realized, I have some things to say. And, if I do say so myself, I'm a pretty good writer. So, I promise to give you the good stuff as I come across it. A little humor, fashion, family, business and whatever else I come across.

With that said, I give you my fist new blog post and list. 7 Reasons to follow me.

1. Funny family stuff. 
First and foremost, I'm a husband and a father. And things that happen at my house are funny. And not just funny to me cause it's my house, but funny to all parents, cause I know you can relate. So I'll do my best to relate them without embarrassing my family too much. Because we all deserve a laugh. My daughters are beautiful and light up my life. My son is hilarious and stubborn. Likes to argue and tackle and laugh. But hates to go to bed.



2. Dress better without being a millionaire.
So, I decided that I wanted my outward appearance to reflect my desire to succeed. I also noticed that in today's casual business climate, it's not that difficult to set yourself apart with a little extra effort. But as I started looking at nicer men's clothes, I noticed that fine fashion isn't for the everyday Joe who has kids, bills and responsibilities. That is, unless you know a few tricks. I can help with that. So I'll give you what I've learned; where to shop, what to look for, and how to put it together. I'm not perfect, but I do alright.






3. Odds and Ends. 
I'm going to tell you about a new beer I found, a new restaurant we like, some song that is driving me crazy, or a style that is ridiculous. I'm going to let you know and I want your opinion too. I'll show you crazy pictures that I take, or things like this - a Darth Vader ice cube - great for whiskey.

I might talk politics and religion, but probably not too much. People get all crazy, but I don't make any promises.








4. My wife is a genius. 
So, for one she married me, but other than that, my wife is a professional treasure hunter. I mean it, she can walk into a thrift store, garage sale or estate sale and make amazing finds. I'll show you some stuff she finds and tell you what to look for in your area. She might even help me and blog from time to time. This is also one of the dress better secrets.










5. Leadership and leading from wherever you are. 
If there is one thing I'm passionate about at work, it's leadership. I have the opportunity to lead a team and find great satisfaction in their success. But you can lead from wherever you are, whatever position you have. I promise to share things that helped me along the way like books, development programs and little best practices. But at the end of the day, ask yourself if you care about what your doing. And if you do, actually really honestly care about your job, company, etc. , does it show in what your doing right now?


6. Social for business and new tech news. 
I've been in the wireless business since before I could drink (legally). I love new and emerging tech trends and social media. I research it and study it a lot. I am intrigued with the way it social evolved from the early MySpace to the dozens if not hundreds of social  sub-genres. Truth is, I'm really late this blog thing because I was afraid I didn't have anything of value to add. I had the opportunity to assist with a corporate social media strategy for a couple of businesses now and want to continue down that path. Also, I love the the way the wireless industry has evolved. My first phone was an NEC that held 9 numbers in its memory. Now I can post this blog from my phone.
Also, check my instagram http://instagram.com/stephenpjones10.  I love new phones, tablets, really all technology. Can't wait to get my hands on Google glass.

7. I'm an Okie in Chicago. There's nothing better than taking someone and putting them out of their element. Like taking a small town boy born in Oklahoma and putting him in the Chicago. Now granted, I didn't grow up on a farm, or break horses, but I like to pretend I did. I'm from Oklahoma City, which is, in fact, a city. But no one knows the difference here anyway, so I might play up my redneck card a bit, just to set myself a part. What sets you a part? How do you turn it up some?