Categories

Recent Posts

Welcome To My Website

Here you will find items such as my resume, social network links and companies I am associated with or working for.  I’m founder  and CEO of Bradshaw Consulting, Inc. which is an IT management and consulting firm. Over the years this company has grown into not only a computer consulting firm but a business consultant in general. My direction with that company and personally has led me to work with other companies helping them grow and increase profitability. Over the years Bradshaw Consulting, Inc. and myself personally has started and partnered a wide variety of businesses. Feel free to visit the projects section to see more about these and other companies I’m associated with. I’m in the process of re-branding most of the websites I’m associated with and I will add them to this section as they are completed.

The photo album contains photos of my family and friends, feel free to browse them at your leisure 😀

Please check back often for updated information, and if there is something you’d like to see that isn’t here, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Meet Derrick Bradshaw: Gamer, Builder, Father, and Lifelong Adventurer

If you’ve ever met Derrick Bradshaw, chances are you remember two things: his genuine smile and his unstoppable energy. Whether he’s launching a new business, playing the latest tabletop game, or cracking a dad joke at just the right (or wrong) moment, Derrick brings heart and humor into everything he does.

A Decatur Native with a Big Vision

Born and raised in Decatur, Illinois, Derrick has always had an eye for innovation. From a young age, he was taking things apart just to see how they worked—and occasionally putting them back together. That curiosity eventually grew into a lifelong love of games, technology, and business-building.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit

Derrick is the founder of multiple ventures, including The Hidden Lair, a one-of-a-kind space that blends retail, community, and fantasy under one roof. He’s not just a businessman—he’s a builder. A hands-on leader who’s as likely to be patching drywall as he is hosting a product launch. When something needs doing, Derrick dives in headfirst.

More Than Just Work

When Derrick isn’t working (which is rare), he’s spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids. He proudly wears the titles of husband, father, and grandfather—and if you ask him, those are his most important roles.

He’s also the first to admit he’s “not the best driver,” but he is the first to volunteer for a road trip or to help someone move. He’s that friend who shows up—with snacks and probably a Bluetooth speaker for spontaneous background music.

A Heart for Games and Laughs

Games are more than a hobby for Derrick—they’re a way of life. From classic RPGs to modern digital strategy games, he finds joy in play and sees gaming as a gateway to connection, learning, and storytelling.

And if you’ve ever heard his laugh echo through a room, you know this: Derrick is funny. Really funny. Not in a stand-up comedian way—but in a “tell you a corny joke and somehow make it gold” kind of way.

Looking Ahead

Derrick is always planning the next big thing—whether it’s a business expansion, a family vacation, or a new game night event. Through it all, he remains grounded in community, driven by curiosity, and fueled by coffee (lots of it).

So if you see him around Decatur—or online—don’t be shy. Say hello. He’ll probably respond with a joke, an idea, or both.

The Hidden Lair is a Roaring Success: Derrick’s Vision Comes to Life

What started as a bold idea rooted in creativity and community has grown into a roaring success—The Hidden Lair, a unique entertainment and retail destination, has become a local and online sensation, and at the heart of it all is Derrick.

Standing proudly outside a striking dragon-themed mural in the heart of the city, Derrick reflects the passion and dedication that brought The Hidden Lair from concept to reality.

A Place Where Imagination Meets Community

The Hidden Lair isn’t just a store—it’s an experience. Part game shop, part pop culture haven, and part community hub, it offers everything from collectible trading cards and fantasy books to tabletop game nights and live events.

Derrick envisioned a space where enthusiasts of all ages could gather, play, and feel at home. “It’s about creating something more than just a store,” he explains. “We wanted to build a community around shared interests—something magical.”

From the Ground Up

Launching The Hidden Lair wasn’t easy. It took months of planning, brand development, and fine-tuning everything from inventory to interior design. Derrick combined sharp business strategy with an unshakable belief in the project’s purpose—and the results speak for themselves.

Since its grand opening, foot traffic has soared, online engagement has boomed, and word-of-mouth has spread across the city.

A Brand That Stands Out

One of the standout features of The Hidden Lair is its powerful branding. The iconic dragon mural behind Derrick serves as a symbol of both fantasy and strength—perfectly capturing the spirit of the store. It’s not just art; it’s a magnet for fans, selfies, and social buzz.

“The dragon represents courage, curiosity, and the thrill of adventure,” Derrick says. “That’s what we want every visitor to feel.”

Looking Ahead

With its growing popularity, The Hidden Lair is expanding its programming, including tournaments, themed nights, and exclusive product drops. Derrick’s next goal? Franchising. “We’re building something scalable. The Lair isn’t just a location—it’s a lifestyle.”

Final Thoughts

Derrick’s journey with The Hidden Lair is a testament to what happens when vision, persistence, and community come together. From dream to destination, he’s built more than a business—he’s sparked a movement.

And if the crowds, smiles, and loyal fans are any indication, The Hidden Lair is just getting started.

Mixing Work and Travel: How Derrick Makes It Happen

In a world where remote work is more accessible than ever, few people embody the blend of professionalism and adventure quite like Derrick. Whether he’s standing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies or jumping on a video call with his team from a quiet lodge, Derrick has mastered the art of balancing work with wanderlust.

Why Travel Enhances Work, Not Disrupts It

For Derrick, travel isn’t a distraction from productivity—it’s a catalyst. “When you change your surroundings, your creativity resets,” he explains. “The fresh air, the change in pace, even just waking up to a different view—it all makes a difference in how I think and problem-solve.”

With strong Wi-Fi, good time management, and a reliable laptop, Derrick seamlessly handles emails, meetings, and project planning, all while taking in some of the world’s most stunning views.

The Tools of the Trade

To make remote work successful while traveling, Derrick relies on a few essentials:

  • A lightweight laptop with long battery life
  • Noise-canceling headphones for focused work sessions
  • Mobile hotspot or global SIM for internet connectivity on the go
  • Cloud-based tools like Zoom, Slack, and Google Workspace

This toolkit ensures he stays connected without being chained to one location.

Creating a Routine in New Places

Derrick structures his days to maintain a sense of routine: early mornings are for work, afternoons for exploration. “I always carve out 3-4 hours of deep focus time, no matter where I am,” he says. “Then I reward myself with a hike or a walk through a local town.”

This balance of discipline and freedom has helped him avoid burnout and stay engaged with both his work and his surroundings.

Challenges and How He Overcomes Them

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Derrick has dealt with spotty internet, time zone differences, and the occasional travel hiccup. But with careful planning and flexibility, he’s learned to turn these challenges into part of the adventure.

Advice for Aspiring Digital Nomads

For anyone considering blending travel and work, Derrick offers this advice: “Start small. Try working remotely for a week from a nearby city or nature retreat. Learn what your non-negotiables are—whether it’s Wi-Fi speed or a quiet workspace—and build from there.”

Final Thoughts

Derrick is proof that you don’t have to choose between career success and personal freedom. With the right mindset and setup, it’s entirely possible to have both. In fact, he believes it’s not just possible—it’s the future of work.

Traveling, Food, and BACH News

Traveling around the world is an exciting adventure that allows us to explore different cultures, landscapes, and most importantly, food. As a food enthusiast, one of my favorite parts of traveling is trying new and delicious dishes from around the globe.

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in a new culture is by experiencing its cuisine. From street food vendors in bustling markets to fine dining restaurants in cosmopolitan cities, there is no shortage of options when it comes to sampling the local fare.

One of my most memorable culinary experiences was in Japan, where I had the opportunity to try authentic sushi at a traditional omakase restaurant. The chef expertly prepared each piece of sushi right in front of me, showcasing the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and it was a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Exploring new places to eat while traveling is not only a delicious experience but also a way to connect with locals and learn about their culinary traditions. Whether it’s sampling street food in Thailand, indulging in tapas in Spain, or savoring a decadent croissant in France, each bite tells a story and adds to the rich tapestry of our travel memories.

It’s important to step out of your comfort zone and try new things when it comes to food while traveling. You never know what culinary delights you may discover or how a particular dish may become your new favorite. So next time you find yourself in a new destination, be sure to explore the local food scene and indulge in the flavors of the world. Bon appétit!

Speaking of travel, this past week, I had the pleasure of meeting with investors in Orlando to set up BACH Real Estate Investment Group in Florida. This expansion will create many new opportunities for BACH. We plan to also expand BACH to Tucson, AR in the near future. Keep an eye out to see the progress on our exciting news!

 

 

The Challenges of Finding the Right Employee in Today’s Job Market and Cicadas

In today’s competitive job market, finding the right employee for your company can be a challenging task. With a plethora of job opportunities available to job seekers, attracting top talent and ensuring that they are the right fit for your organization can be a daunting and time-consuming process.

One of the main challenges that employers face when searching for an employee is the sheer volume of applicants that they receive for a single job opening. With job boards, social media platforms, and recruiting agencies providing easy access to job postings, it is not uncommon for employers to be inundated with hundreds, if not thousands, of resumes for a single position. Sorting through this large pool of candidates to identify the most qualified and suitable individuals can be overwhelming and time-consuming.

Furthermore, finding the right employee goes beyond just looking at qualifications and experience. Cultural fit, values alignment, and soft skills are becoming increasingly important factors in the hiring process. Employers are now tasked with not only assessing a candidate’s technical abilities but also evaluating their interpersonal skills, problem-solving capabilities, and ability to work well within a team.

To navigate these challenges and find the right employee for your organization, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your company’s values, culture, and goals. By defining what you are looking for in a candidate and creating a comprehensive job description, you can attract candidates who are aligned with your company’s mission and vision.

The buzzing symphony of cicadas fills the air once again in Central Illinois as these curious creatures make their extraordinary return after 17 years. While the emergence of cicadas is a natural wonder to behold, it also brings about a unique set of challenges for both residents and businesses in the region.

One of the most significant challenges posed by the cicadas is the deafening noise they produce, which can reach up to 100 decibels – equivalent to the sound of a lawnmower or chainsaw. This cacophony can disrupt outdoor activities, conversations, and even peaceful moments of solitude, making it difficult for residents to enjoy their usual routines.

Despite these challenges, residents and businesses in Central Illinois are finding creative ways to navigate the impact of the cicadas. Some are using protective covers for their plants and trees, while others are embracing the unique opportunity to learn more about these fascinating insects and their life cycle.

A Winning Experience: Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill in Decatur, IL

Attention all sports fans and food enthusiasts in Decatur, IL! If you’re looking for a winning combination of great food, cold drinks, and an unrivaled sports atmosphere, look no further than Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill. Located in the heart of

 Decatur, this popular spot is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to catch the game, enjoy delicious eats, and have a fantastic time with friends and family.


From the moment you step foot into Hotshots, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant and energetic ambiance that is perfect for sports lovers of all kinds. With numerous big-screen TVs showcasing all the major games and events, you can be sure that you won’t miss a moment of the action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of football, basketball, baseball, or soccer,

 

 Hotshots has got you covered with their extensive sports programming.
But Hotshots is not just your average sports bar. The real star of the show is the mouth-watering menu that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. From classic bar fare like wings, burgers, and nachos to more gourmet options like salads, sandwiches, and wraps, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And let’s not forget about their signature cocktails, craft beers, and specials that will keep you coming back for more.

One of the standout features of Hotshots is their commitment to providing top-notch service to their customers. The friendly staff is always eager to make your experience a memorable one, whether you’re watching the game with friends or hosting a special event. The atmosphere is laid-back, welcoming, and perfect for kicking back and relaxing after a long day.

So whether you’re looking to catch the game, grab a bite to eat, or simply unwind with a drink, Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill in Decatur, IL is the place to be. With its winning combination of sports, food, and fun, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic

 time at this local favorite. Don’t miss out on all the excitement – head on over to Hotshots and experience the

 thrill for yourself!