Hi Yo!

I’m sad to read that Ed McMahon has passed away.  For those of us who grew up on Johnny Carson and Ed as a special treat when we could stay up late, it’s really the end of that era.  Unfortunately, too many folks today will remember him for his later work as a solo pitchman rather than his skill as Johnny’s sidekick (and his cry of Hi YO!) but we’d all do well to remember the really important role he played in the success of Johnny and The Tonight Show.  In fact, we’d all do well to remember that none of us, even if we’re as supremely talented as Johnny Carson, can afford to be out there without someone like Ed McMahon. Think about it.  Tiger has Steve Williams, Phil has Bones MacKay.  If you think all a pro caddy does is carry the bag and wipe down the clubs, you’re sadly mistaken.   They are partners and sometimes are more responsible than the guy who hits the ball for success and failure (and if you don’t believe me, watch what happens when a caddy is wrong about a yardage call).  Chefs are called that – chiefs, in English – because they are the head of a team, not solo practitioners.  It takes a team to make a great restaurant experience happen.  Come to think of it, that’s pretty much true about all of us in business.

“Sidekick” is just another name for a partner.  As in all partnerships, people often mistake visibility or volume for importance.  Dr. Watson and Sherlock, Robin and Batman – it’s a long list.  I’ll admit to relying on sidekicks throughout my career after having been one for many years.  In addition to making me better, having a sidekick, a partner in crime, was part of the fun of being in business.

Who is your sidekick?  Give them a hearty “Hi Yo!” in rememberence of Ed, won’t you?