Patrick Lee of Spark Business Institute and Chesapeake Think Tank joins us to discuss main street today. Patrick is a passionate advocate for small businesses and is asking the question, "Are we ready for a small business revolution?"

Throughout his career, Patrick Lee has sought out diverse experiences, gaining insight into business and the minds of business owners. A serial entrepreneur, Patrick understands the challenges leaders face as they try to maintain momentum. Through his work with the Spark Small Business Institute, he helps small and mid-sized businesses overcome obstacles to success and establish sound strategy for the future. In 2012, Patrick founded the Chesapeake Think Tank. This full-service consulting firm specializes in facilitation, in-house workshops, strategic management, and program planning. As Chief Ignitor of Business Growth, Patrick draws from his extensive cross-industry experience to help owners and leaders understand why business has plateaued and how they can start climbing again. Patrick’s career features an eclectic array of experiences. Patrick started working in construction at a young age, and eventually earned his journeyman’s license. After earning his Political Science/History degree from Earlham College, he applied for a job at a veterinary office. The ensuing circuitous journey led Patrick to found the Eastern Veterinary Blood Bank, the first blood bank of its kind, and set the standard for the industry. Patrick managed marketing, finances, donor recruitment, quality, packaging, distribution, processing, and other daily operations. He was involved in every aspect of the business and saw it grow from a concept to a thriving business. While Eastern Veterinary Blood Bank was a success, Patrick wanted to apply his skills to new ventures. He joined Leadership Anne Arundel’s Flagship Program, which provides intensive training in civics and leadership skills. As is his modus operandi, Patrick completed the program and worked his way through the ranks of the nonprofit. He acted as Director, Program Chair, Vice-President, President, and Executive Director during his eight years with the organization. Patrick brings this expertise to each client and business owner he collaborates with, helping CEOs make strategic decisions, become stronger leaders, and achieve greater results. Patrick holds an MA of Management from Notre Dame College of Maryland and is an active member of several organizations, including the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County, Anne Arundel Community College Internship Advisory Board, and the Queen Anne’s County 4-H Park Board of Directors. He is the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including SPCA Volunteer of the Year, Who’s Who for Entrepreneurs, Leadership Anne Arundel President’s Award, Queen Anne’s County Extension Office Volunteer Award, Entrepreneur Exchange: Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award Winner, and the Patrick M. Lee, Jr. Volunteer of the Year award through LAA.