Three cheers for relationships, learning, and a whole lot of “AWESOME” moments!
Account Directors Cegi Wassman and Heidi Arndt, along with Vivid Image Owner, Beth Gasser, spent several days immersed in everything propane alongside Rural Computer Consultants (RCC) staff, fellow propane marketers, and industry vendors at the RCC Customer Seminar. What struck us most wasn’t just the quality of education and insights shared, but the genuine relationships that form the backbone of this industry.
More Than a Seminar: It’s a Community
The RCC Customer Seminar embodies something special. Sure, you come to learn and get your questions answered so you can move faster and more confidently in your business. But what you really discover is a community of professionals who understand your challenges because they’re facing them too. It’s a place where you can find out how others in the industry are successfully addressing similar situations, share ideas freely, and build connections that extend far beyond business cards.
Francy (Freddie and Nancy the emcees and coordinators of this great event) and the entire RCC team have mastered the art of making seminar week both educational and genuinely fun. Their approach aligns perfectly with our vision at Vivid Image: Focus on relationships to drive business forward.
Celebrating a Legend: Brian Sheehan’s Retirement
One of the week’s most memorable moments was celebrating Brian Sheehan’s retirement. Brian’s high energy and infectious enthusiasm had the entire crowd shouting “AWESOME!” and “That’s a fact Jack!” throughout the conference. His message resonated deeply: build connections not only within the propane industry, but internationally through organizations like Lions Club International. As Brian reminded us, service organizations help us connect with other cultures and make the world smaller as we help each other and know that we all have the power to “Make a Great Day”.
Brian Kanaba, Manager of LPGas Magazine, presented Brian with a beautiful etched version of the May article highlighting his distinguished career at RCC and in the propane industry, a fitting tribute to someone who has given so much to the community. Continuing Brian’s philanthropic legacy, Freddie at RCC emphasized the importance of getting involved to deepen relationships and further industry growth. One immediate opportunity he highlighted? NPGA members are needed to sit on their scholarship committee. Could that be you?
*Side Note: Brian loves penguins!
Leading Through Imperfection
James Robilotta, an engaging keynote speaker and incredibly funny improv comedian, delivered powerful insights on leading through imperfection and deepening relationships through better listening and questioning. His approach to connecting with people was refreshingly inclusive: even if you eat ketchup on Cheetos, you deserve to be heard and understood. His key takeaways hit home:
- Clarity is kind
- Assume less and ask more
- Ask before you advise
- Commit, don’t comment
James reminded us that Commitment = Patience + Persistence, especially when people are resistant to change. And in true propane industry fashion, he declared that not only is propane sexy, but so is commitment. Commitment is sexy.
Making Propane Sexy
The theme of “Making Propane Sexy” ran throughout the seminar, spreading enthusiasm, excitement, energy, connectedness, and camaraderie. Beth shared insights about applying for and winning the Summit Emerging Media Leader Award for “Making Propane Sexy” while others proudly sported shirts, socks, hats, and even bathrobes. Attendees shared photos and selfies to a livestream and on social media to further the movement that continues to gain momentum. Visit the Making Propane Sexy site for your own gear or talk to the guys at Hansen Advertising about co-branding your company attire.
Quality Time = Quality Connections
Beyond the formal sessions, our team treasured the quality time spent with clients and fellow propane marketers. Whether gathering along the San Antonio Riverwalk for dinner, engaging in roundtable discussions, enjoying questionable karaoke singing, or exploring the ever-popular vendor fair, every moment buzzed with energy. People talked all things propane with plenty of laughs and fun mixed in—exactly what makes this industry community so special.
The Vivid Image Takeaway
We returned from the RCC Customer Seminar with notebooks full of insights, phones full of new contacts, and hearts full of appreciation for our propane friends. The seminar reinforced what we believe at Vivid Image: when you focus on building genuine relationships, business success naturally follows.
To Francy, the RCC team, and all our fellow attendees, thank you for reminding us why we love serving the propane industry. Here’s to building connections, sharing knowledge, and yes, #MakingPropaneSexy
Ready to connect and grow your propane business relationships? First, set a calendar reminder so you don’t miss next year’s RCC event, and then let’s talk about how Vivid Image can help you build stronger connections with your customers and community with a better website and marketing that truly resonates.
