Michael Sherman of Showkite Production on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Michael Sherman shared his story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Michael, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m walking a clear and purposeful path as a 30-plus year corporate communications professional focused on helping people and institutions achieve success, whether as a member of a dynamic team capturing a compelling customer testimonial on camera or partnering with leaders company-wide to plan, develop, and execute communications that drive high performance.

This same focus is guiding the success of Showkite Productions, LLC. That’s right… with continued outreach through social media, primarily through my YouTube channel, Kite Flying and Kite Festivals, at https://youtube.com/michaelksherman, I’ve turned my hobby and side gig into a thriving business and am now flying an expanding collection of breath-taking showkites (https://kitesup.org/2019/08/06/kite-flying-is-my-other-passion/) at a series of high-energy corporate and community events nationwide.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a veteran corporate communications professional who developed an affinity for flying enormous showkites over the last decade and recently turned the world’s healthiest addiction into a flourishing side gig via Showkite Productions, LLC. Doing business as Michael K. Sherman, I offer mesmerizing displays that transform corporate and community events into captivating experiences that enhance quality of life and economic prosperity.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My father taught me the most in terms of the value of a solid work ethic and making yourself indispensable – a sound part of my upbringing as the son of a military pilot and commander and later a city manager and public servant in cities across the Midwest. Beyond that, I spent years observing and learning from a wide range of leaders across a variety of professions. Those who are most effective meet people where they’re at, care enough to help them understand the bigger picture, set clear direction, and step aside and let their teams perform. Easier said than done for many. When I’m brought into an event to fly kites, I bring a commitment to make the larger event a success, whether that’s carrying the right amount of insurance, conforming to the space provided, partnering with others who may share the field, bringing a wide range of kites designed to perform in various weather conditions, lending a helping hand where needed to ensure an event runs smoothly, etc.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that you’re not always going to fit in with those around you, and that’s ok. Just be yourself, do what you know is right, gravitate to the things you enjoy and are challenged by. Learn what you can when you fail and don’t be so hard on yourself and those around you. I now have the pleasure of witnessing the success of five amazing children, our last of which is entering college and actively working to shape her future.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
As a corporate communications professional, I’m committed to guiding business transformation; positioning key personnel to realize their full potential; and fostering engagement, unifying and inspiring teams to deliver their best. This same philosophy is applied through Showkite Productions, LLC. At the end of the day, it’s all about focusing your talent and contributions towards elevating the performance of others and the value they are delivering.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I’m most at peace with a job well done. In the office that means partnering effectively to shape attitudes and behaviors that drive success. Through Showkite Productions, LLC, peace comes through the shapes themselves and watching them take people’s breath away.

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Image Credits
Michael K. Sherman

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