Comments by others who know my work
“Michael has been a client of our firm through several
business ventures for more than 20 years. What sets Michael
apart is his unique ability to combine general management
and executive financial skills. In my experience, this is a
rare combination and Michael executes both of these skills
well. His general management ability comes with a high
level of care for his people. He demonstrates his financial
skills through his ability to ask the right questions and
communicate difficult information in a clear, responsible
manner.”
Ronald Rauch
CPA, Shareholder
Clark Nuber P.S.
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“I worked for Michael Crystal when he was the VP/General
Manager of Sasquatch Publishing; I was part of the
executive committee who hired him as publisher of Chicago
Reader and to whom he reported.
Where Michael shines is at the intersection of his area of
expertise--finance--and the other aspects of business. I
have seen him explain to sales and marketing people
(including me) how their apparently-winning ideas would not
yield any income...and how small changes could have big
financial benefits. He can translate financial results and
complex situations to managers and board members so they
can understand and act on them. He has a great record of
helping entrepreneurs turn their dreams into workable
budgets, cash flows, and business plans, and can, if
necessary, throw cold water on some ideas.
Michael's calm, analytical style is such a benefit in
complex, emotional situations. Better decisions are made
because of the information and thinking he brings to the
room.”
Jane Levine
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“I have known Michael for over 10 years both personally and
professionally. Michael served as Treasurer and Board
Member for ASTAR, a non-profit organization which provided
services to individuals and families impacted by autism.
Michael was instrumental in the development of our original
business plan and successfully helped guide our
organization through many difficult financial times. I was
most impressed with Michael’s ability to provide thoughtful
financial advice in a language that all of us
“non-financial” types could understand. The work ethic,
commitment, and responsible, kind leadership Michael
provides are invaluable assets for any project or
organization.”
Gary Stobbe, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Washington
Co-Founder, ASTAR
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“I have worked closely with Michael, as my right arm in
business, for more than two decades in the publishing
business, and he has been invaluable. I have the classic
traits of an entrepreneur, with too many ideas, too many
foolish ideas, per day. Michael has been the calm,
analytical influence on these effusions. He always tries to
find a way to make things work but isn't afraid to point
out the sometimes-dire financial implications, and to keep
me focused on long-term goals. Best of all is his ability
to put complicated, multi-dimensional aspects of the
business into clear budgetary and analytical tools --
tracking performance, spotting revenue opportunities,
suggesting better ways to do things. Michael is also a
superb and experienced manager of businesses and people. He
has a knack for earning confidence from people he's
managing and helping, of being unfailingly sympathetic and
understanding of the human dimensions, and bringing good
cheer and positive attitude to challenging situations. He
is a rare combination of empathy and analytical
shrewdness.”
David Brewster
Publisher
Crosscut Public Media