I’m Ellie Winslow and I’m passionate about the entire subject of life beyond the sidewalks and the strategies that can make the experience more profitable and fun. I've lived most of my life in rural places watching the people around me struggle with issues for which I know there are simpler solutions. I grew up on a small farm in Los Angeles County in the 50’s and 60’s. Even in that day, it was an anomaly to raise alfalfa, horses, goats and chickens so close to the city. I have lived in rural America more or less ever since. My formal education was in English at San Diego State University and Zoology at the University of Montana. I’ve raised virtually every type of livestock and companion animal, built several businesses--for myself and others--reconstructed a not-for-profit, and had positions in both sales and Sales Management. I believe wholeheartedly that the concepts and tools for making urban businesses successful apply to rural business, with just a little translation. My flair is for spotting a need, for finding solutions that are appropriate and for presenting them in a way that entertains and teaches. In recent years, more and more groups have asked me to speak at conventions, club events and workshops. The workshops show rural residents how they can improve their marketing and business skills for a more prosperous life beyond the sidewalks of America. My philosophy is that a workshop (or a book) should be interesting, clear, and give the participants real-world tools that they can use in their businesses immediately. Using participation techniques that get everyone involved and using examples from rural products, services and animals, I show workshop attendees that “Business” can be not only comprehensible, but also more effective and plenty of fun.