Issue 309, November 30, 2025
Dear Members,
In business and in life, critics are never in short supply. No matter what you build, improve, or attempt, there will always be someone ready to point out what they think you should have done differently. It’s human nature for people watching from the sidelines to feel compelled to comment on the game.
But here at the Southside Businessmen’s Club, we understand something important: Critics don’t build anything; leaders do.
Every member in this club has taken a risk at some point. You started a business, ran a team, made tough decisions, and stepped forward when others stepped back. Leadership invites opinions, and progress invites criticism. As President Teddy Roosevelt famously said, “The credit belongs to the man who actually is in the arena.”
Critics may talk, but you took action. This week, I encourage each of you to view criticism not as an obstacle, but as proof that you’re moving. A parked car gets no dents. A ship tied to the dock never faces a storm. But neither of those ever gets anywhere.
Our club has always been a gathering place for do-ers. People who take initiative, improve our community, support local businesses, and lift each other. Let’s continue to lead boldly, pursue new ideas, and refuse to be discouraged by those who haven’t walked in our shoes.
Here’s to building, improving, and setting the example despite the critics.
I look forward to seeing you at our next luncheon on December 10th and hope that you will answer the call to make SBMC a premier business club, no matter what critics may have to say.
Ken Petsch
2025 President