Announcing one of our BIG dream gathering sponsors: Prairie Life Fitness!

Yes... Prairie Life Fitness is not only one of our sponsors... but they are also going to host the event at their beautiful location in West Des Moines.  (Click here for directions.)

We asked Debby Hudson, the manager of PLF, why she wanted to support the BIG dream gathering in Des Moines. 

She explained, "We believe dreams can come true and we'd love to help people to make their dreams a reality!"

She also added, "We think it's important to get people dreaming BIG because Des Moines ROCKS and we want to keep it that way!"

We couldn't have said it better ourselves!

So plan on coming on May 16th between 2 and 6 pm... and while you're there... make sure to say THANK YOU to the team at Prairie Life Fitness. 

We're grateful for their support and we bet you are too!

If you'd like to find out more about PLF... just click here to visit their website.

A BIG dream thought for the day...

After Dr. David Livingstone had begun his now famous missionary work in Africa, a certain group wrote him and asked: "Have you found a good road to where you are? If so, please advise. We'd like to send others to assist you."

Dr. Livingstone sent this reply: "If you have those who will come only if they know there is a good road, I don't want them. I want individuals who are strong and courageous -- those who will come if there is no road at all!"

What if... you were willing to take one small but significant step towards your BIG dream... even if the road wasn't clear?

What if... you took that step... today? 

Kalli's BIG dreams are happening!

This just goes in the "fun" BIG dream category...

BIG dreamer Kalli... from UNI... let us know that another one of her BIG dreams happened since she came to the BIG dream gathering at the University of Northern Iowa.

She's wanted to meet country western singer... Luke Bryan for a long time. 

Kalli told us, "He's always been very inspirational to me." 

She's been to six of his concerts and she's in his fan club, but she's never been able to connect with him face-to-face before.  So... she wrote this BIG dream down on one of her dream sheets and posted it on the wall!

Well... she and two friends found out they were able to get three of his coveted "meet and greet" passes for his concert in Ames, Iowa... and... this week... they were able to meet him!

How cool is that?  Not bad turn around time for posting that BIG dream just 3 weeks ago!

We can't always explain how these things work out some times... but it's just cool when they do! 

You just never know what might happen when you dream BIG!?!

So... What's one of YOUR BIG dreams?

Things are happening so fast... it's hard to keep up with some of these BIG dreams!

Kalli is a student at the University of Northern Iowa... and she was willing to share about her BIG dream of going on a mission trip to Kenya.

Check out her interview...

Well... I just received an update from Kalli... and even though she thought she'd have to wait until she was done with school before she could start to work on this BIG dream... things have already started to happen with it!

Here's her update... in her own words:

"Also, I put down a dream that I wanted to go to Kenya to do mission work. I visited Honduras in 2006 and absolutely loved the people and the work. The church that I'm from funds a program in Kenya  called "Made in the Streets" and I have always wanted to go with the mission groups but have never had the opportunity due to funding issues as well as scheduling conflicts. Another long story short- I brought it up at Christmas that I was interested in joining a group that went to Kenya and my uncle said the he would let me know when the next trip was planned. I found out last weekend when I went home that not only is a trip now planned for this September, he offered to provide half of the funding for me to go!"

Fun stuff.

You just never know when you might have a breakthrough that will help your BIG dream to happen!

Way to go Kalli... keep dreaming BIG and going after them!  (Oh, and please keep us in the loop on the trip!)

Now... how about you...

What if you told someone you trusted about your BIG dream today? 

What if you wrote it down?

What if you asked someone about their dreams?

What might get started because of it?

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

The BIG announcement: We're bringing the BIG dream gathering back to Des Moines!

It's OFFICIAL!  We are going to hold a BIG dream gathering in Des Moines on Sunday, May 16th!

And thanks to Prairie Life Fitness in West Des Moines, one of our awesome sponsors, we are going to hold it there. (Click here for a map.)

It will run from 2 to 6 pm... to allow for plenty of dreaming!

And as always... it will be FREE to attend and it will offer everyone a safe, fun and encouraging place to dream and connect!

Mark your calendars and please tell your friends!

We can't wait to dream BIG with you!

Stay tuned for a more updates on the gathering and news on your fellow BIG dreamers.

Keep dreaming BIG!

Mitch Matthews

A FREE Little BIG thing!

Okay... I've been a BIG Tom Peters fan for a long time. 

He's bold.  He's brash.  He's usually mad at something.  But he pushes people toward excellence and he's funny as he does it.  Yeah... love Tom.

If you haven't read much of his work... you should check him out. 

And here's a way to do it for FREE!

He's publishing a new book called, The little BIG things.  163 ways to pursue excellence.

Tom's team made the first section of the book available.  And it's free!  It's not the whole thing but it's more than Amazon or Barnes and Noble will give you!  So click here to download the PDF. 

That way... you can apply some of Tom's little BIG things to your BIG dreams!

Enjoy!

An invitation is around the corner!

A friend recently reconnected us with the poetry of Shel Silverstein... and I'm so freakishly grateful. 

I came across a poem this weekend called simply... "Invitation"

If you are a dreamer, come in.

If you are a dreamer, a wisher, a liar,

A hope-er, a pray-er, a magic bean buyer...

If you're a pretender, come sit by my fire,

For we have some flax golden tales to spin.

Come in!

Come in!

For me, that's the perfect invitation to the BIG dream gathering! 

Which are you?  I'm thinking on any given day I could be any and all of them.  How about you?

Well... no matter what... consider yourself invited to the next BIG dream gathering.

Stay tuned because we are going to announce all of the specifics tomorrow!

This is what can happen when you dream BIG!

Need some inspiration on a Friday?  Try this out.

The story...

Okay... so this is the picture of what can happen when people are willing to write down their BIG dreams AND when others are willing to lend a hand!

Here's the story...

A student came to the BIG dream gathering at the University of Northern Iowa last month and wrote down a number of BIG dreams. 

She dreamed BIG and she got specific!

One of her dream sheets explained that she wanted to travel to Zimbabwe and connect with a specific ministry there. 

She said, "To see the work that they're doing with the church they've created there."

Now, keep in mind... this was at a BIG dream gathering in little ol' Cedar Falls, Iowa. 

So, writing down a dream about going to visit a specific ministry in Africa felt like a long shot!  

But... get this... someone that saw the dream... knew the family behind that ministry!  Not only that but they reached out to the family for this BIG dreamer!  They explained that this student wanted to come to visit them and in her words "See how God was moving in Zimbabwe."

Well... the family responded! 

Not only did they say that this dreamer would be welcome to come visit... but they let her know that an anonymous donor from their ministry was willing to cover her room and board while she was there!!! 

How amazing is that? 

So think about it... a UNI student had enough guts to write down a specific BIG dream... even though it seemed a little crazy and outlandish!  Then... someone in the room in Cedar Falls, Iowa not only knew about the ministry but knew the family behind it and was willing to reach out to them.  AND someone on the other side of the world believed in the dream enough to say they would cover this students living expenses while they came to visit?!?!

What are the chances?!?  (NOTE: I'd say that prayer helped to increase the "odds" on this one.  Wouldn't you?)

So... yeah... we are celebrating today!  That's just cool. 

At this point... I can't share names yet... because the details are still getting worked out... but we'll keep you in the loop as this story plays out!

What might happen?

What might happen if you were to dream a little BIGGER today?  What if you got specific?  What if you were willing to put it out there to a few people? 

What might happen?

What might happen if you asked someone about their BIG dream today?  What if you were able to help them... with a connection... an idea... or an encouraging word? 

There's a good chance it would only take a few minutes of your time... but it could make all the difference!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

Protect your dream.

Have you ever had someone close to you tell you that you can't go after a dream?

Maybe they were trying to protect you from getting hurt. 

Maybe they were afraid you'd move away if your dream happened.

Maybe they were a little scared that your dream would change their world?

Whatever the reason... when someone tries to shut down a dream... it's usually not with horrible intentions... but it can have horrible consequences.

No matter what... you've got to protect the dream...

How can you do it?

Here's one way...

What if you surrounded yourself with at least 2 or 3 people who believe in your dream too? 

I do this.  First of all, my wife is hugely encouraging of my dreams. 

But I also meet with 3 like-minded guys from the business world every other week.  (Some call this a "Mastermind Group")

We push each other, we laugh a lot and we encourage each other.  I'll admit that it's tough for all of us to block out this time in a busy schedule but it has been so worth it... especially when life hits the rough patches!

Who are 2 to 3 people in your life who you could meet with on a regular basis... with the intent purpose of encouraging each other to be more of who you were created to be? 

The cool thing is that you don't need to be similar to these people.  In fact, it might be helpful for you to be from diverse backgrounds and different from each other. 

The key is that you are like-minded in your purpose for gathering on a regular basis.

Think about it.  Be intentional about it.  Experiment with it.  (Know that it might take some time to get the right group of people.)  But know that when you do... it can make all the difference!

Join in the conversation... what are some ways that you have found to protect the dream?  Click on comments below and let us know.

An announcement is coming!

We're getting ready to announce our next BIG dream gathering!

If you're a friend of the BDG on Facebook, you can get a sneak peek today.  (Click here to check it out!)

We can't wait to have another opportunity to dream BIG and connect with all of you... VERY SOON!

Stay tuned!

Brittany wants to head to ___________ for an internship.

Intrigued?

Check out her BIG dream... in her own words.

So... do you know someone that could help Brittany out?

Do you have some ideas for scoring a great PR internship?

Do you have some encouragement for Brittany?

Just click on "comments" below and let her know!

And Brittany... know that we believe in you and your BIG dream!  We can't wait to see it happen!

Emma's BIG dream is to be the first __________ from Iowa.

Intrigued?

Check out Emma's BIG dream... in her own words.

Now... how about clicking on comments below and shooting a little encouragement her way?

Maybe you have an connection for her... again... just let her know!

Or maybe you've got some ideas for her... join in the conversation... and leave a comment.

Lastly... thanks for dreaming BIG Emma!  We believe in you and can't wait to see this BIG dream happen!

Chris has a BIG dream of helping kids... and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Chris was one of our amazing dreamers that attended the BIG dream gathering at the University of Northern Iowa...

Check out his BIG dream... in his own words...

So if you have connections with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital...or you have suggestions for funding or a place to stay... OR if you just want to let Chris know that you like his BIG dream and believe in him... click on comments and let him know.

NOTE: Chris did let me know later that St. Jude is located in Memphis, TN... I sooooo shouldn't have put him on the spot like that!?!?!

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

At the new year, an exceedingly good friend of mine wrote me a letter.  In it, he included a poem by Marianne Williamson which is often misquoted as being from Nelson Mandela's inaugural address...

What if we took this in today?

Who are you to be?

What if you let your light shine just a little bit more today?

What if by doing that... you helped someone else to shine a bit brighter today too?

What if you took a step towards breaking free of one fear today? 

Who else might be set free in the process?

What if... you knew that you were powerful beyond measure... today?

What would you do... and how would you do it... today?

A BIG dream thought for the day...

"Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the cooperation of many minds."

                                 - Alexander Graham Bell 

I'd say this rings true (please excuse the pun) for dreaming BIG too!

How about you? 

Need some marketing help on your BIG dream? There's an app for that!

 
If you have been following along with us at the BIG dream gathering for a while... you know that we're BIG fans of blogger/author/branding Guru... Drew McLellan.

He helped to provide the space for our second official BDG... and he has been walking alongside us since that time... sharing his marketing wisdom, encouragement and connections.

Not only that... but Drew has been inspiring and educating 1,000's of people on branding via his branding firm (MMG), his articles, his books and his incredible blog posts... for a long time!

How about it... are you a Drew fan too? 

Would you love to have him walk along side you? 

Maybe you're just curious about finding out more about him?

Or... maybe you are needing some ideas on marketing or branding your BIG dream?

Well... now I can say... "There's an app for that!"

Yup.  That's right. 

Drew has just released a freakishly cool... and amazingly simple... app for your iphone or ipod touch.  (Click here to get it.)

And get this... you can get it FREE!

So... if you need some insight on the best ways to brand or market your BIG dream... why not check in with fellow BIG dreamer... Drew McLellan... and get an app for that?

Calvin's BIG dream would ignite kid's BIG dreams!

One of my favorite stories from this year's winter Olympics has been the story of Shani Davis...  a kid from South Chicago who was blessed to have some people believe in him enough to provide him an opportunity to connect with skating.

Calvin's BIG dream is to give kids with a similar story to Shani's... an opportunity to connect with digital media. 

Check out this video of Calvin talking about it...

How cool is this idea? 

We think it would be awesome to provide kids an opportunity to get to experience the magic behind video and music production.  My guess is that Calvin's BIG dream would ignite the BIG dreams of countless kids!

Oh... if you are wondering whether Calvin has the skills...  well... check out one of his demo videos from his website at: www.calvinjohannsen.com.

Reel 2009 from Calvin Johannsen on Vimeo.

So... If you've got some ideas... connections... or suggestions for Calvin... click on comments below. 

Take a minute to let him know you believe in this BIG dream... 

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

Can you find yourself?

Okay... we finally have some pics to share from our BDG at UNI! 

(Yeah... I'll admit it... our camera blanked out during the event and we were using my iphone for music... so we got out of there with no pics!!  YIKES!) 

BUT.... the awesome team at UNI just sent a boat load... so I'll share some here and I'll post the rest on our Facebook Fan page.  Check that out by clicking here! 

Can you find yourself?

Remember to check out the rest on our Facebook page by clicking here!

Thanks for the feedback Nick!

I was really impressed by UNI student and entrepreneur... Nick Cash... when I interviewed him recently.  (Click here to see that interview.)

Then he came to the BIG dream gathering on Tuesday night... and he continued to blow me away.

But then Nick wrote about his experience with the BDG at his own blog and he surprised me again. 

He really captured the essence of the event.  Plus, Nick touched on the need that we all have to dream BIG.

Here's just a taste of what he wrote...

The experience was quite liberating much in the same way Postsecret is liberating — it was extremely easy to relate to all of the dreams posted. Some were fun, some silly, many profound, and most were absolutely doable with some support.

When written down the dream feels real and nearly tangible. It isn’t some far flung thought to merely continue to toy with or ignore; now, posted on the wall, it is up for the world to see and comment on as well...

This is important for a number of reasons, but perhaps most important is the fact that in an environment where anything is possible, where no dream is too large or insurmountable, people find out what their real dreams are.

We need to free our minds of societal and personal blocks to aim high enough to uncover these truths, for they are important to our journey in life.

Click here to read Nick's full post.

So thanks Nick for being a BIG dreamer... AND thanks for encouraging all of us to dream BIG with you!

NOTE: And if you came to the BDG on Tuesday night... be watching for your dream sheets in the mail.  An incredible team of BDG supporters (led by Connie Hansen... THANKS CONNIE and team!) got them all out yesterday! 

And in the meantime... keep dreaming BIG!

Mitch

It was an amazing night!

Well... there were a lot of BIG dreamers at the University of Northern Iowa last night!

UNI students, faculty, Cedar Valley residents all converged on the Maucker Student Union to participate in the BIG dream gathering!

We even had people drive two or more hours to attend the event!

People came to post their dreams and encourage other dreamers!

 

We'll have a lot more photos and videos in the coming days... so be on the look out for that!

But in the meantime, we wanted to make sure to thank our sponsors for the event last night!  They helped to make it all possible and we're very grateful for their support!

Our sponsors were...

UNI's John PappaJohn Entrepreneurial Center

UNI's Allumni Association

UNI's Career Services

The R.J. McElroy Trust

and UNI's Student Government

So, THANK YOU to our sponsors and THANK YOU to everyone who participated last night!  It was a great evening and we can't wait to hear from everyone as those dreams continue to develop and grow!

Keep dreaming BIG and keep checking back to hear from some of the BIG dreamers who attended!

Mitch

Tonight's going to be a good night!

Check out this fantastic video that BIG dreamer and Videographer TJ Warren has put together for us about tonight... the BIG dream gathering at the University of Northern Iowa... 

So come to the Maucker Student Union on UNI campus

• Registration starts at 5:30 pm
• The doors officially open at 6 pm. 
• We'll be dreaming BIG until 9 pm. 
• NOTE: You can come for all or part of that time!

And remember... it's free to attend and open to the public!

So... come and dream BIG!  It's going to be a good night!

What if...

What if... you took a world renown concert violinist... someone who people pay hundreds of dollars to see...  someone who plays a priceless Stradivarius... someone who could keep a concert hall filled with people breathless in appreciation and awe... 

What if... you put him in a busy subway at rush hour?  What would happen?  How would it change things?

Would people appreciate the beauty?  Would people stop and take it in? 

Well... the Washington Post conducted an experiment like this with violinist Josh Bell.  (Here's the story.)

Check out the video to see what happened...

Amazing isn't it? 

Only a few people stopped to listen and acknowledge this man's amazing skills and talents.  A few threw in some change.  But most passed right by.

Now granted... it was during the morning rush hour.  People were busy. (On a busy day, I admit that I'm not sure I'd take time to listen.)

Interesting experiment. 

And here's my take away from it...

If you take one of the world's finest artists out of the concert hall and plunk him down in the middle of a busy day... he can become a distraction... and get totally dismissed.

In many ways... this is exactly why we do the BIG dream gathering.

Because for us... each dream sheet that goes up at a BDG is a piece of artwork. 

And each dreamer... an artist.   

And the BIG dream gathering allows some time for all of us to slow down... and take notice. 

To take notice of our own dreams... as well as the dreams of others.

So... what if you slowed down and gave yourself 10 minutes to think about some of your own BIG dreams today?  

Or... what if you took a few minutes to ask someone else about theirs?

What if you came to the BIG dream gathering at UNI on Tuesday night ? 

What if you took a couple of minutes (or a couple of hours) to slow down... to step out of your busy... daily... schedule... to acknowledge some of those BIG dreams in you... and in others?

What if?

Maybe you could even get a little help.  Maybe you could even give a little help.

It's fun.  It's safe. It's free.

And... you never know.   Taking just a few minutes to slow down and appreciate some of your own dreams... as well as the dreams of others... might just make all the difference!

Keep dreaming BIG and come dream BIG with us... tomorrow night!

Mitch

The sky is the limit!

Thanks to Meta Hemenway-Forbes and the Waterloo/Cedar Falls Courier for the fantastic article about
the BIG dream gathering that's set to be held at the University of Northern Iowa tomorrow night!

Meta did a great job of capturing the heart of the BDG! 

Check it out by clicking here!

BIG dream gathering featured in the Northern Iowan Paper

The University of Northern Iowa's student newspaper featured the BIG dream gathering this week!

Click here to check out the story by Anna Schreck.

Why not bring one... or ten... of your own BIG dreams to the BDG at UNI on February 16th? 

Remember... it's safe... fun... and it might just help you take some steps towards making that BIG dream happen!

Have you met Connie?

Have you met her?

I'm betting if you've been a student on UNI's campus in the last few years... you've met Connie Hansen.

She's the Alumni Association's Assistant Director for Outreach & Engagement. 

If you know her... you know she's amazing at her job and she's been a driving force for bringing the BIG dream gathering to UNI's campus.

BUT... did you know that she has a "secret" BIG dream? 

That's right... check it out.

So... if you've been blessed by Connie in her day job... or if you want to see her pursue this secret BIG dream... click on comments and let her know! 

Share some encouragement... some ideas... or some connections with her!

We're big fans of Connie... and I'm betting if you know her... you are too!

Hey... and why not bring your own BIG dreams... to the BIG dream gathering at UNI on Feb. 16th? 

You can even keep them a secret if you want to!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch

Nick is rolling with one of his BIG dreams!

We met Nick at UNI's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. 

It was his first day in his new office... and even though he was already cranking on his BIG dream... Nick was willing to take a break and talk with us about it...

You'll want to check it out... because his story is inspiring... plus... he shares some great advice for students who have a BIG entrepreneurial dream.

What struck me about Nick was that it seemed like he was thinking that he was just getting started... (maybe his first day in his office had something to do with that!)... but it was obvious that he'd already made some great strides towards achieving this (and many other) goal(s)!

It was great to meet him and hear his story. 

Plus... I'm thinking that Nick is a guy you should get to know.  He was a lot of fun to talk with on and off the camera... AND... with all of his experience... determination... and willingness to work... I wouldn't be surprised if he's strikes it rich someday very soon!

So... do you have some ideas... encouragement... or connections for Nick?  Why not click on comments below and let him know!

Why not bring your own BIG dream to the UNI BDG on February 16th?

Come dream BIG with us at UNI on February 16th!

Hey gang!

Why not come to the BIG dream gathering at the University of Northern Iowa on February 16th?

Here's the scoop on the schedule...

• It's going to be held at the Maucker Student Union.  
• Registration starts at 5:30 pm
• The doors officially open at 6 pm. 
• We'll be dreaming BIG until 9 pm. 
• NOTE: You can come for all or part of that time!

Here's the rest of the story...

First... it's FREE to attend and it's open to the public!

Second... when you come... you'll be given a dreamer number so you can post your BIG dream(s) anonymously.  So it's a safe place to dream BIG!

Third... you'll be able to see other people's big dreams and be given the opportunity to leave encouragement... ideas... or connections for them  (Hey... who doesn't need a little help on their BIG dream?)

Fourth... you can come and go as you'd like during 6 and 9 pm.  Stay for part of it... or stay for ALL of it.  It's up to you!  (Warning... you might just get addicted to it!)

Fifth... you can be sure that it's a safe place.  This isn't a set up for a sales pitch or a 8-steps-to-success program... it's just real people helping each other with their BIG dreams!  And we figure that's a "recession proof idea!"

So... come... have some fun... connect with some great people... and dream BIG with us!

Lastly, just click on "comments" below if you have any questions!

We can't wait to dream BIG with you,

Mitch Matthews

Adam wants to run your town!

Adam is another awesome UNI Student with a BIG dream... and maybe... just maybe... he can help run your town.

Check out his BIG dream... in his own words...

Now... what words of encouragement... connections... or ideas do you have for Adam?  Click on comments below and let him know!

So... if you're in a smaller town that's charming... or wants to be a little more charming... and you're in need of a city planner in the coming years... why not reach out to Adam?  You might just be a perfect match for each other!

Lastly... what's one of YOUR big dreams?  We'd love to hear about it!  Click here to let us know!  Or... bring it to the BIG dream gathering that's happening at UNI on February 16th.  Click here for the specifics!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch

It's Friday... do you need a little inspiration for your BIG dream?

Have you heard about Jake Olson's story?

Wow!  It's inspiring and humbling and it puts things into perspective...

Check it out.

There are some common themes here with the BDG...

I love the fact that it's real people coming alongside Jake to help to make some of his BIG dreams happen!

I love that it took someone's connection with USC's football organization to get him in... but once he was there he had a HUGE impact on the players and the coaches.  

I love the fact that they wanted to help and bless Jake... but you can tell that they have gotten as much out of it as he has... and isn't that usually the case when you help someone?

I love the fact that Jake's BIG dream had an impact on everyone around him and he continued to walk it out... and to be the person he was created to be... no matter the challenges he faced.

Yup... it's a great story to end the week with!

Be like Jake... and keep dreaming BIG... no matter what,

Mitch Matthews

What if my BIG dream involves staying with my company?

It's interesting... I think that a lot of people who come to the BIG dream gathering assume that their BIG dream has to involve leaving their company or their job in order to do something BIG! 

It's true for some but it's not true for everyone!

Successful BIG dreamer Megan Johannes is a great example of this!

Her story involves risk... taking a stand for her BIG dream... and going after a position that allowed her to play to her strengths.

When I first met Megan and heard about her BIG dream journey... she was at a cross roads.  She was working for Marriott and was in the middle of some "corporate restructuring."  Her job had been eliminated so she had some decisions to make... she could go with a "safe position" or she could take a risk on something BIGGER.

We talked about some of her BIG dreams... as well as the potential risks and rewards of pursuing them.

Well... she took the risk and it paid off! 

In fact, Megan's story is so inspiring... we wanted to share it with you.

Click here to read the full interview ( Download BDG Interview with BIG dreamer - Megan Johannes)

As you read... you’ll hear about how hard it was to wait for the right position.  You’ll find out how she took a leap of faith by turning down a “good” job in order to step into something “great.”  And you’ll find out how doing some small but significant things to build relationships and put her BIG dream out there... helped to open the door to her being able to walk it out within Marriott!

Now... for those of you who like the read the last chapter first to make sure there's a happy ending... here's a recent update on how things are going for Megan... in her own words...

"Some of the things that have been happening with my big dream lately are... the position that I created proved to be so successful that it is now a benchmark in the company for our new re-organization.

New larger hotels and resorts that are launching are now including this position. 

The position is now called " Destination Sales Manager."

I had a part in booking over $9.8M in the first year and showed a Closure Percentage of over 41%. (That's pretty darn good for a first year... especially considering that resort properties that have had the position for a couple years are only around the low 30%'s)

Be on the lookout for my next endeavor... I've done what I came here to do and I'm feeling a change coming on!"

Way to go Megan!  Thanks for being a great example of a real person going after her BIG dreams!

Okay... so I have two last things for you as you reflect on Megan's story... as well as your own...

First... do you have some encouragement for Megan?  If you were impacted by her story... why not leave a quick comment and let her know?  I'm sure she would appreciate it... and it will encourage her to go after that next BIG thing!

Second... do you have a BIG dream... within your current organization?  Why not let us know about it?  Leave a comment.  Even if you post it anonymously, it may just stir something in you to put it out there!  So go for it! 

Click comments and join in the conversation!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

Adam's BIG dream is to work at the White House!

Okay... so as I toured around the University of Northern Iowa... I was blown away by the students... their passion... their heart... their skills... and their willingness to dream BIG.

UNI's Student Body President... Adam Haselhuhn is a great example of this!

And... boy oh boy... does he have a BIG dream...

Adam wants to work at the White House... yes... that White House. 

Click here to listen in on how this BIG dream got started... as well as why it's wildly important to Adam.

So... do you have some suggestions... encouragement... or connections for Adam?  Take a minute and let him know you believe in him... let him know you appreciate him... or let him know if you have an idea to help him out.  Just click comments below or email us at: contactus@doyouQ.com! 

We'd love to hear from you and we'd love to see Adam walking out this BIG dream!

Lastly... do you have a BIG dream? 

Why not bring it to the UNI BIG dream gathering to be held on February 16th? 

It's FREE to attend and it will be filled with real people helping each other with their BIG dreams! 

So... come... have some fun... post a dream or two... get a little help... give a little help... and dream BIG!

See you then!

Mitch Matthews

Why not join in the fun?

Okay... we just started the BDG Facebook fan page a few weeks ago... but the list of freakishly cool dreamers jumping on board keeps growing!

Why not join in the fun?

Click here to check out pics from previous BIG dream gatherings as well as fun updates and conversations on dreaming BIG!

Denise's musical dreams have found audiences... BIG and small!

Denise Forney has brought her family... her bright smile... and her BIG dreams to a number of the BIG dream gatherings!

Her dreams have involved music... whether it's performing for large audiences... writing music for kids... or creating a music ministry that reaches children and teens.

Well... she has worked really hard... and had a lot of success!  In fact, we could go on and on... but it would be best to just let her give you an update in her own words...

Thanks, Mitch!

The Big Dream gathering was the start of such great dreams of music. I've been able to do fun things, like start up "Music-n-Motion," a business of mine where I educate kids each week through music - singing, dancing, playing instruments... and have a great deal of fun entertaining at birthday parties.

My family and I performed out at "Every Family Rocks" in the fall. 

The creation of "Hosanna Montana" resulted from the Big Dream gathering too... :) "Hosanna" performed at the Des Moines Arts Festival last summer, and will be kicking off Indianola's Family outdoor movie night premier of "Hannah Montana, the Movie.." in April! Ha, ha... I love feeling like a rock star in the presence of kids! :)

My friend Susie Weppler and I started an acoustic duo called "Onyx2" last fall, and have been playing at events in the community, like Meals from the Heartland, Iowa Hall of Pride, East Chamber, and Celebrate Recovery at Hope. Playing with her is a total God thing, and we've been writing music together too. God's at work with our Big Dreams, and I praise Him for using you to place this venue in people's hearts... it's changing lives, and just filling me up in the process! :) The Big Dream Gathering has made me so happy with my choices now in my life... I feel like I'm living my life on purpose, for a purpose, for HIS purpose... does that make sense?!

Thanks for all you do, Mitch! :)

Isn't that great?  This is truly the picture of a real person... going after her dreams.

What I love about this too... is with all the success of her business getting started... and having the opportunity to perform in front of bigger and bigger audiences... when I asked Denise about what was one of her favorite memories from this journey... she said it had to be getting to perform with her daughter, Rachel, in front of a large audience this past Christmas Eve.

Check out the video...

(By the way, Rachel has a great voice too... BUT according to Denise... her BIG dream is to be a firefighter!  How cool is that?!?)

So... yes... Denise's BIG dream is happening and we can't wait to see what 2010 brings for her in 2010!

If you'd like to find out more or become of fan of Denise, check out Music in Motion's facebook fan page and Onyx2's fan page. 

Well done Denise!  Keep dreaming BIG!

One last observation... It's funny but when I talk with Denise... she almost seems surprised at how far things have progressed over just a few years.  Especially when you consider that she's a wife and a mom of 3 and works full time.  But what we've seen is Denise continuing to take those small but significant steps towards her BIg dream.  And as you can see... those small steps add up over time!

We hope this inspires you to keep taking some of those small but significant steps towards your BIG dreams. 

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

PS - Denise is also a UNI grad and she's VERY excited about the BIG dream gathering at UNI on Feb. 16th!

Felly's BIG dream says... "Let them eat cake!" (Really GOOD cake!)

Meet Felly... another inspiring UNI student with a BIG dream.

And... as you'll see... she's clear on what she wants to do!

Check out her video...

That's right... not only does she know what she wants to do... but she knows who she wants to bake for first! (NO PRESSURE... potential brother-in-law!!)

So... if you have ideas... encouragement... connections... or suggestions for Felly... just click on comments below!  It will only take you a second but it could offer Felly an extra boost as she goes after this BIG dream!

Thanks Felly!  I know you are going to have a ton of success with this and I can't wait to enjoy a piece of one of your specialty cakes in the very near future!

And if you have a BIG dream to share... why not bring it to the BDG at UNI on Feburary 16th?  Click here for details!

In the meantime, keep dreaming BIG!

Mitch Matthews

A priceless gift in a surpise package!

BACKGROUND:

Okay... so I've mentioned it before... my wife... Melissa... is an artist.  (She's a lot of cool things actually, but artist is at the top of the list!)

Recently, she was asked to do a display of her work at our church.  It was a true compliment, but it also felt like a bit of a risk.

Now, if you are an artist... you know that it almost always feels like a risk to display your work.  You know... to work hours and hours on something and then put it out there for people to look at.  There can be that inner conflict with whether people will like it... get it... appreciate it.. etc.

But a few weeks ago, Mel agreed and put up a collection of her work.  In the end, she said it felt good to have it up and she was really glad she'd pushed through that inner struggle of whether she should or not.  It was done.  It was out there.

THE GIFT:

Well... just the other night... we received a "gift" and it came in a surprise package.  

We were at the library with our boys.  I was at the main desk dealing with a fine (NOTE: I'm a habitual library fine guy!  I probably pay for two library pizza parties a year!) and Mel was with our sons at the computers looking up some book titles.

Then a relative stranger approached my wife.  I could see it from across the room but I couldn't hear the conversation.

The woman was obviously pleasant and excited to see Mel.  By the time I made it over to them... their conversation was in full swing.  Actually, it was mostly the stranger talking and my wife listening. 

As I listened in... I realized that this wonderful woman was telling Melissa about the experience she had had when she had seen her artwork.  She said things like "I love how whimsical it is!'  and "I just loved the colors."  And... my personal favorite...  "I just kind of got lost in it."

And then just as quick as she came... the relative stranger was gone again... and Mel and I were left to just smile and revel in the encouragement.  It was a beautiful thing.

It was something that took this person 2 minutes to do (tops!).  She had to walk across the room.  She had to stop.  She had to take a bit of risk as well by offering the encouragement... because she didn't know how Mel would take it.  And then she was off again.

But I have to tell you that that 2 minutes made a deep deep impact!  It was like a refreshing cup of water on a hot summer day!  It touched my wife and encouraged her... deeply.

I'm really grateful for what that stranger did.  It was a priceless gift. 

And I would dare to say... it will be a gift that Melissa will reopen every time she goes to pick up a paint brush.

THE A-HA:

Afterward, I have to tell you that I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for that stranger! 

You see... I love to encourage my wife in her art and I do as often as I can.  But there is just something about someone with no vested interest... no potential bias... offering encouragement.

So thank you stranger!  You gave Mel and I a priceless priceless gift! 

But then an "A-ha" hit me.  I felt a rush of gratitude for all of you! 

Why?  Well... because anytime any of you have left a comment on any of these blog posts about dreamers and their dreams... or anytime any of you have left an encouraging note on a dream sheet at a BIG dream gathering... you've given that same priceless gift.

I remembered that anytime someone puts their dream out there... it's like an artist displaying their work.  There can be that same inner-dialog... "Will people like it?"  or... "Will people get it?"  or... "Will people appreciate it?"  It feels like a risk.

But then when someone comes along... and more often than not it's complete strangers who do it... and leaves an encouraging comment... it's a priceless gift for the dreamer!

So thank you to everyone who has done that! 

Thank you to everyone who has left a comment on this blog and THANK YOU to everyone that has left an encouraging note on a BIG dream sheet! 

You make all the difference and you help to make the BIG dream gathering what it is!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for the priceless gift of encouragement!

Please... keep it up... you make a BIG impact!

And... please... keep dreaming BIG!

Mitch

A BIG dream that has really taken root!

A few years ago... we met BIG dreamer Adam Hammes... and he was willing to tell us a little bit about his BIG dream of bringing environmental education and the concept of sustainability to Des Moines.

Adam's an amazing guy... and here he is sharing about his dream...

And... wow... has he been busy going after his dream over the past few years!  (We'll list some of the things later in this post.)  But something that's coming up... that involves his BIG dream and we wanted to help get the word out on... is the Hope for the Hungry event coming up on Saturday in Des Moines.

 

This looks like an amazing event... so click here to find out more. 

We're really proud of Adam and his willingness to pursue his BIG dream... as well as help others with theirs.  It's been fun to watch!

Need some inspiration on your own BIG dream?  Well... here's a short list of some of the things Adam has been up to since we interviewed him...

• Founded Urban Ambassadors in November 2008
• Participated in the 4th Annual Sustainable Living Bike Tour in California, 3 weeks-750 miles teaching sustainability, December 2008
  
  • Went again 5th Annual Tour, December 2009, video-blogged and made a DVD to share in Des Moines
  • Sponsored a local documentary film-maker to visit the trip and start planning a filming of the 6th Annual Tour
    
• Designed Sustainable Spring Break with Drake University, March 2009
  
  • DMACC Urban Campus joined forces and doubled the trip size for March 2010
  • Other universities are looking to model their own trip after ours (e.g. Grinnell)
    
• Designed Transforming Business Speaker Series, May 2009
  
  • Brought 4 world-class green business speakers to Des Moines
  • Designing a Green Business Starter Kit box with all of their info, books, DVDs, etc. to sell in 2010
    
• Adopted a parking space downtown and turned it into a park for a day (so did 4 other businesses) for International Park(ing) Day, September 2009
  
  • Building a coalition to adopt spaces every year
    
• Organized two volunteer days to help build an Earthship home near Lucas, IA
  
• Organized two volunteer days to help build a Strawbale education center near Colfax, IA
  
• Designed local food event, Hope for the Hungry: Feeding Greater Des Moines for Saturday, January 30, 2010
  
  • Already adopted by larger food coalition to train low-income neighborhoods in local urban agriculture
    
• Working on funding full-time Director position, upgrading website, and building membership services

Again... way to go Adam!  Keep up the great work!  And check out his website if you want to join in!

If you have ideas, encouragement, questions or connections for Adam... take a second and click "comments" below.  I'm sure he'd appreciate it!

In the meantime, keep dreaming BIG everybody!

Mitch Matthews

Coffee anyone?

Check this out... Jeff... an awesome UNI student... has a BIG dream that involves providing a good cup of coffee to those who need it.

Check it out... It'll inspire you...

So... what do you think?  Do you have a connection for Jeff?  Do you like his idea and just want to encourage him on it?  Do you have some ideas for him? 

Why not take 2 minutes... click on "comments" below this post... and let him know!?!

I'm sure a little encouragement would be like a warm cup of joe on a cold winters day for Jeff!

So let him know!

And what if you brought your own BIG dream to the BIG dream gathering we're hosting at UNI on February 16th?  Come on over.  Post as many dreams as you'd like anonymously.  You just never know who you might connect with!  And hey... you'll have a little fun in the process!  Click here to find out more about the event!

Keep dreaming BIG and we'll see you on the 16th!

Mitch

Join us on Facebook!

That's right.  We finally got on board with Facebook! 

We're taking it slow but having some fun in the process. 

Come on over and check it out!  

Baseball and BIG dreams go together like butter and popcorn!

As you know... we're getting ready for our BIG dream gathering at UNI on February 16th.

So... to get ready... we marched around campus meeting with students and faculty talking about their BIG dreams!

Today's freakishly cool featured BIG dreamer is... Erin Wheat.  She's on staff at UNI and she's got a FUN BIG dream to share...

Check it out.

So... have you done it?  Have you hit every major league baseball park?  Give her some wisdom and advice.  Is there a "best" way to do it?

Do you have the same dream?  Why not let her know?  Who knows... maybe you can hit a park together.  (Did someone just yell "ROAD TRIP!?!")

Or... are you inspired by Erin and her BIG dream?  Let her know by sharing some encouragement with her!  Tell her you think it's cool and you wish her well.  (It's just that simple.  Plus it'll make you feel good and encourage her in the process!)

Yup... just click on "comments" and join in the conversation!

Okay... so stay on the look out for other featured dreamers as we get ready for the next BDG at UNI!

Until then...

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch

Why do we do this...

Hey gang -

Over these past few weeks, we've been asking for people who have attended BIG dream gatherings in the past to share their stories with us.  Christy's story is an example of that!  (Click here to check that out.)

As a result, I've been going back through our archive of videos of individuals who were not only willing to dream BIG... but they were also willing to share their dream via an interview!

Well... I came across a video of me... from 2007... talking about "why we do this."

What's funny is that even though this was shot right before our 2nd BIG dream gathering... and it's almost 3 years old... AND I had no idea what would be in store for us in regards to the BDG when we shot this... the content still holds true.

So... check it out if you'd like to hear more about why we do this...

So... what's one of YOUR BIG dreams?

What if you took a step towards it today?

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

PS - If you've attended a BIG dream gathering in the past... update us on YOUR big dream!  Either click on comments below or send us an e-mail at contactus@doyouQ.com.  We'd love to hear from you!  THANKS!!!

Mitch to speak at upcoming "Pay It Forward" event in Des Moines!

We wanted to let you know that BDG co-founder Mitch Matthews has been asked to speak at an event to be held in Des Moines on January 30th!

Here's the scoop... Iowa Entrepreneur and BIG dreamer... Kim Wright... is sponsoring a FREE "Pay It Forward" event to inspire people to dream BIG in 2010! 

• WHERE: Connxions Conference Center
• WHEN: 6 to 9 pm - Saturday, January 30th
• WHAT: The event is to inspire people to dream BIG about 2010!  Mitch will speak and there will be opportunity to dream BIG, network and connect! 
• COST: FREE

Here's the skinny on Mitch's talk...

The BIG Dream Revolution™ Helping America connect and dream BIG!

In 2006, Mitch and his wife Melissa started something called the BIG dream gathering™.  It was an opportunity for friends to come and write down their BIG dreams and post them on the walls of their home.  Then everyone could read all the dreams and see if they could help with encouragement, connections or time.  It was supposed to go for a few hours… but it wound up lasting a week!  All sorts of dreams were launched.  Everything from helping children in Africa to a couple of dreamers scoring a contract with NIKE®!  These BIG dream gatherings have continued and Mitch and his Dream Team have seen this revolution take off with countless dreams reawakened and incredible connections made. In this high-energy program, Mitch tells the story behind the BIG dream gathering and talks about the four questions that started this revolution.   What could happen if you were able to dream BIGGER in 2010?

• RSVP:  The event is FREE but event organizers are asking for people to RSVP.  If you'd like to attend the event, you can RSVP to Kim Wright directly by e-mail at wrightstuff9300@hotmail.com.

What seemed impossible in 2007 became a reality!

It's funny because when Christy Leibundguth came to help at a BIG dream gathering in 2007... she NEVER intended to share her dream on video. 

But with a little encouragement from friends... prompting from our video guru Brad and... okay... I pushed a little bit too... she sat down to talk about her dream. 

She kept it short... sweet... and contained.  But she got so excited she was about to burst in the end.  Here check it out...

(Can you tell we have fun at these BDG's... or what?)

Well... Christy stayed with her BIG dream and what seemed impossible in 2007... became a reality in 2009!  And it sounds like it's all been worth it.  Here's an update from Christy... in her own words...

"I launched my business in April of 2009 and opened my doors for child care in June. My goal financially was to have 4 children and I had that within 3 1/2 months. At the end of January this year I will be at full capacity with 6 children.  The thing I am most excited about is that I always knew this was a dream but I didn't know what my motive was for it and if it was 'to be'. The journey to get to this place has been long and grueling without end in sight or vision at times. But I know now that all those jobs, opportunities, tests, and struggles I went through were to prepare me to be the business owner that I am today and run a successful, high quality child care program where my parents continue to stay extremely satisfied....and I am satisfied as well and have pride in what I do. The best is yet to come."

If you spend two minutes with Christy... you'll know that she was made for this!  If you've ever gotten to see her interact with her kiddos... encouraging them... making them laugh... teaching them... having fun... you'd just know it. 

It's a beautiful thing to see her doing EXACTLY what she was created to do.  And she's doing it because she dared to dream... and go after it.

So we say... WELL DONE CHRISTY!

Okay... so let me ask you... which of your BIG dreams seems impossible right now?

What's something you were created to do?

I know... I know... it might feel like a hard question because the answer might seem impossible right now.

Or that inner-critic might be saying "I can't think about that because I don't have the money for that!"  Or... "My dream seems totally out of reach."  Or... "I don't have the credentials to do that."

All fair. 

But... what if you just took a few steps towards it... today?  Even though it felt impossible... what if?

That's how Christy did it.  One step at a time.  With a little help from friends... with some prayer... and with a whole lot of work... she was able to see her dream happen!

Listen... if you've been around the BDG long enough... you know that we're not trying to sell you something.  This isn't a set up for an "8 steps to success" cd set.  Nope.  We just want to encourage you to go after what you were put on the planet to do. 

And... we're the last people to tell you that it will be easy... but just like Christy found out... the process that you take to get to your dream (no matter how hard it is) will help to prepare you for your dream!

So go for it.  Take a step today.  You just never know where it might take you!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch

Check out Jake Rudy (Student Body VP - UNI) and one of his BIG dreams!

In preparation for the BIG dream gathering we're holding at the University of Northern Iowa... we visited the campus and met with a number of amazing students! 

One of them was Jake Rudy.

He's UNI's student body vice-president and he's got a BIG dream... check it out...

I know that I was impressed with Jake before... during... and after our interview! 

If you know him, I'm betting that you are too!

Have you got some words of encouragement for Jake... or maybe some words of wisdom?  Why not take 2 minutes and encourage him on his BIG dream?  Just click comments below and let him know you believe in him and his big dream!

And why not bring one (or 10) of your own BIG dreams to the BIG dream gathering at UNI's campus on February 16th?  You never know who you might connect with!  (Click here for more details!)

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

Need some green for your BIG dream?

Last week... Travis Steffen mentioned the importance of money money money... when going after your BIG dream in biz world.  Check out his video interview here.

Well... Steve Sink over at IowaBiz.com offered some great advice on that very subject and I thought it was worth sharing.  Click here to check it out.

One last thought on this... when we talk with folks about their BIG dreams... money is one of the biggest challenges that people talk about.  That makes sense.  BUT... don't let it get in the way of you taking some steps to go after that dream. 

A lot of people think they need to have the money all in place before they can take any steps towards that dream.  But generally, there are a number of small but significant steps that can (and need to) be taken before the money comes into play.

What are a few small but significant steps that you can take towards your big dreams... today? 

Maybe you'll need cash to make these steps happen.  Maybe you won't. 

Why not take one step today?

Something like...

• Take 15 minutes to come up with a plan for 3 things you could do over the next month?
• Call someone that might have a similar dream and see if you could hold each other accountable to walking out those dreams over the next 6 months?
• Share your dream with someone you could trust and ask them for some ideas or connections that might help.  (By the way, don't forget to ask that person about THEIR big dream and how you could help them!)

These are small but significant things... AND they don't take a cent.

Then... as you continue to move forward and you need some of that mooooonnnneeeey... take some of Steve's advice!

QUESTION: What are some other small but significant steps that you have taken or want to take over the next 3 months? 

Join in the convo... click comments and let us know!

Keep dreaming BIG!

Mitch Matthews

BDG podcast with singer/song writer Blake Aaron Guthrie

Hey gang...

I just wrapped up my conversation with Blake Guthrie... and I was blown away by his story!

Take a listen...Click here to listen in to the podcast!

As you do... you'll hear about how...

he decided to give up football (and a FULL-RIDE SCHOLARSHIP!!) to pursue his BIG dream...

a canceled concert led to an opportunity to record with a grammy winning producer...

music is breaking down barriers and helping kids in real world ways...

Yeah... I think you'll enjoy hearing more about Blake's BIG dream journey as well as hearing about his next BIG dream... the My Life Tour.

If you'd like to find out more about Blake and his music... just click here.

If you'd like to find out more about the My Life Tour... and possibly even help... click here!

Lastly... do you have some encouragement, ideas or connections for Blake?  Why not click on comments and let him know!

Thanks for listening... and thanks for dreaming BIG!

Mitch

Q is in the news!

Okay... so if you've been around the BIG dream gathering for a while... you know that part of the reason it exists is because of our journey with one of our BIG dreams... our conversation game called "Q."

If you don't know the story... the short version is that we were working on "Q" and things were humming right along but then we got hit with a whole bunch of... well... let's stay... "stuff" all at once and were about to give up.  But then I got hit with this idea for the BDG. 

So we had that first one at our house... it went a WEEK... we got some help... and we got back on track.

Well... the story with Q continues... and we're grateful!

I just wanted to pass this along... because Q got a shout out in DMJuice this week.

Q game gets iPhone app

Q, a question-based card game created by local guy Mitch Matthews that connects people and inspires good conversation, is now available on the iPhone.

Matthews, who has a goal of connecting 1 million people, worked with Flying Hippo Productions in Urbandale to develop the app, which mimics the card version of the game: You read a question, then touch and spin the card to reveal your next question.

There are four apps currently available: Q friends lite (free), Q friends (99 cents), Q chill (99 cents), and Q road trip (99 cents).

Go to doyouQ.com for more information.

So... THANK YOU to the freakishly cool peeps at DMJuice!

And thanks to everyone who has continued to support us in our BIG dream with Q!

I'm really glad we're all in this together!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

An update on BIG dreamer Brent Houzenga!

Hey gang -

I thought it might be fun to shoot out some updates on some of the BIG dreamers that have attended the BIG dream gatherings in the past.

Today's BIG dreamer is the freakishly cool and incredibly talented Brent Houzenga.

Here's a brief description of Brent...

Brent Houzenga is an artist living in Des Moines, IA. Houzenga is originally from Fulton, IL. He studied printmaking and graphic design at Western Illinois University before moving to Des Moines in 2006. Since relocating to Des Moines Houzenga's work has been featured in many group and solo shows on the local and national level.

Houzengas inspiration stems from modern art, comic books, punk rock posters and album covers, graphic design, street art and the desire to accomplish something with his time spent on earth.

We first met Brent a few years ago when he attended a BIG dream gathering in downtown DSM.

Click here to check out his video interview from that BDG...

Well... Brent's been hard at work... and he and his art have been traveling the globe and making waves! 

His creativity is pretty dang unstoppable!  I mean... I've heard of painting on canvas... but how about minivans!?! 

Check out this recent interview with Brent to get an update...

Plus, he's been a HUGE advocate for the local art community in DSM.

What can we say... he's incredibly talented and so darn lovable!

So... let's help Brent keep that momentum...

• Who do you know that could help Brent? 
• Maybe a connection or an idea? 
• Or maybe you've just got some encouragement to offer this amazing artist! 

Leave a comment and join in the conversation...

And make sure you check out his website and help to spread the word! 

This is an artist that's going to make a BIG impact on the world... one spray paint can at a time!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch

Connect with us on FACEBOOK!

Hey gang -

It's taken us a while... but we've FINALLY set up a fan page on FACEBOOK! 

Come on over and check it out!

Find yourself in the 100's of pictures from previous gatherings!

Watch videos of BIG dreamers!

Join in the conversation!

So... become a fan and we'll keep you in the loop on all things BDG!  And help to keep you on the road towards YOUR BIG dream!

Keep dreaming BIG everybody!

Mitch Matthews

Are you infected with the "i can" bug?

Staying the the theme of education today... 

KIRAN BIR SETHI shares about the school she started in India called Riverside.  She infected her students with what she calls the "i can" bug but blurring the line between life and education!

She holds her students as "capable" and shows them what's possible by allowing them to "experience" their education.

Check it out...

Be inspired.

What if you were infected by the "i can" bug?

It's a simple but powerful idea... 

Who would be impacted if your BIG dream got injected with a little "i can?"

What do you think?  Join in the conversation and click on comments below...

And keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews

Alex shares about his BIG dream in education!

Hey gang -

We've got another UNI student for you... 

His name is Alex and he's got an awesome heart and a BIG dream involving education.

Check out his interview.

I can tell he's going to make an impact in his field... but we'd love to get him some encouragement as he's walking towards that big dream.

So, if you're a teacher and you have some advice to offer Alex or maybe you're a BIG dreamer with some encouragement for him... just click on "comments" below and let him know!

And then plan on coming to the BIG dream gathering that we're having at UNI on February 16th.  Click here for more info!

Keep dreaming BIG,

Mitch Matthews