About

Mike Van Horn

I’ve been advising owners of small businesses for over thirty years. In that time, I've worked with almost every type of business, from solopreneurs to companies with over 100 employees.

I have an MBA (but don’t hold that against me!). Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience dealing with the challenges that most small businesses face: marketing, finances, hiring the right people, managing growth, and understanding their management style. I’ve learned to speak their language—no complicated academic jargon. I’ve found that when I mention “strategic planning,” some eyes begin to glaze over, so I’ve made it my goal to keep everything practical, concrete, and real.

Business Owner Groups

For many years, I facilitated monthly business owner groups, where 8 to 10 owners would meet to give each other feedback, address challenges, and hold themselves accountable for the goals they set.

I led these discussions, often standing at a whiteboard, taking notes, and guiding the conversation. Sometimes, meetings were hosted at members' places of business. One memorable session was held on a catamaran in San Francisco Bay, where the group met on a boat while other passing boaters were puzzled by a guy with a flipchart out on the water.

Books & Workbooks

My experience working with business owners led me to write a number of books  and workbooks, which you can find on this website.

A business owner group meeting

I was part of Mike Van Horn's business group. As a small and new business owner I found his suggestions about invoicing, marketing, and a whole host of other things useful. He was also helpful and kind. Mike's group was one of the reasons my business was a success.

Susanna Solomon, electrical engineer

Science Fiction

You might be wondering how I balance two very different  professions—business advising and science fiction writing.  Here's how it works for me:

Selena M – The Heroine of My Series:

In my sci-fi series, I created Selena M, a popular singer who accidentally gets tangled  with aliens and pulled into space adventures. It’s light-hearted sci-fi,  and if you're interested, you can check out her story here. And that's not all! Since Selena sings, I had to write lyrics for her songs, and I ended up getting music written and a vocalist to sing them. These are published on Soundcloud. Who knew a business advisor could also become a lyricist? Here are covers of my trilogy

I write sci fi and biz books

Mannequin of my sci fi heroine. Cotton Candy Lovin’ is her hit song.

Personal Life

My wife BJ and I worked side-by-side for many years—she was a human  resources consultant, and together, we made a great team. We co-authored some of my workbooks, and I’m proud of the work we accomplished together. BJ passed away in 2023, but our partnership, both personal and professional, will always be an important part of my journey.

We have two wonderful daughters, three grandkids, and live just north of San Francisco, surrounded by beautiful hiking trails. Throughout our lives, BJ and I traveled the world, visiting every continent except Antarctica.

Why I Love What I Do

Having my own businesses over the years has been a journey of learning, growth, and, yes, mistakes—but I’ve never regretted it. Running a small business has been the best decision I’ve ever made, and it’s the flexibility of entrepreneurship that allows me to balance my work, travel, and writing science fiction.

With my biker chick