Dr. John Kim: Functional Medicine Expert

Dr. John Kim is a trailblazer in functional medicine and a passionate advocate for holistic health. After graduating with high honors from Rutgers University's Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, he pursued advanced training in functional medicine through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Driven by his own personal health journey, Dr. Kim passionately educates and empowers others, presenting cutting-edge health information to manage chronic illness and advocating for medical freedom. On Episode 72 of our Catch the Moment Podcast, we were honored to sit down with Dr. Kim and learn from all of the dynamic knowledge he has to offer.

Dr. Kim shares the defining moment in his career that sparked his realization about how broken the healthcare system truly is. His first-hand experience working in hospitals revealed the vicious cycle in healthcare of using pharmaceutical drugs to merely put a band-aid on patients’ symptoms instead of addressing the real root causes. He often emphasizes that “there is no perfect medicine out there” however the root of patients’ problems often has to do with lifestyle changes surrounding eating, sleep, and even love. He aptly describes love as an “anti-inflammatory”, and stresses the importance of community to overall health and wellness. 

In terms of wellness, Dr. Kim explains the significance of drinking clean water, considering it the foundation of health. He also emphasizes the impact that invisible stressors have on our health. As a solution, he encourages people to focus on foundation care and work on achieving coherence between the brain and the heart. A lack of coherency between the heart and the brain leads us to feel like we are out of control, have anxiety about the future, and lose the overall resiliency necessary to handle the daily stresses of life. This will only lead to more and more physical problems that pharmaceutical drugs can not fix. 

After immigrating to the United States from South Korea at just 9 years old, Dr. Kim was raised in New Jersey. As he reflects on his upbringing, Dr. Kim credits his parents for allowing him the freedom to explore his passions. This freedom led him to pursue a career in pharmacy because of his deep-seated passion for healing rather than for financial gain. Dr. Kim’s upbringing caused David to reflect on how he is raising his own children. It is important to David to find the right balance between guiding his children in the right direction while still supporting their passions and dreams. 

Dr. Kim is incredibly passionate about self-care, stressing that “self-care is non-negotiable”. In his personal life, Dr. Kim’s daily routine begins with an hour dedicated to self-care including spending time in his at-home sauna, meditation, prayer, and breath work. He believes self-care keeps you grounded and is essential to a balanced life. Another key to a balanced life that both Dr. Kim and David connect on is the importance of learning how to say no. They are both actively working on this skill which will ultimately allow them the opportunity to put their energy into fewer things and do those things extremely well. They agree that it is better to find what makes you dynamic and hone in on that instead of trying to say yes to everything. 

Dr. John Kim’s dedication to holistic health and wellness is an inspiration to all as he challenges the healthcare system in order to make the world a better place. Give our podcast episode with Dr. John Kim a listen to hear his full story.

Rhonda Vetere: Global C-Suite Technology Executive & Strategic Advisor

Rhonda Vetere is a true trailblazer in every sense of the word. She is a global top tech executive who has worked across industries for companies such as Esteé Lauder and JPMorgan Chase, the author of two books, a passionate STEM leader, and an ambitious athlete. She is a one-of-a-kind leader with a mindset that breeds extraordinary innovation. It was our absolute honor to sit down with her on Episode 33 of our Catch the Moment Podcast and dive deeper into her journey of becoming the incredible and inspiring woman she is today. 

Vetere began by sharing her most treasured moment throughout her multifaceted career. She has spent over 20 years working in India, calling it her “happy place”, and her time there is something she holds very close to her heart. The gratitude that the people of India have is what gave her the ability to be a pioneer for technology and bring new opportunities for innovation to India. Rhonda believes that cultural immersion is imperative as a global leader, which is why she fully engages with and embraces every single culture she steps into. When in India, she ditches the suits and jeans for traditional Indian sarees, allowing her to truly connect with those around her. The DT3 brand sees eye to eye with Rhonda on the importance of diversity of thought and perspective, and she believes that being such a diverse thinker is what allowed her to build and maintain so many meaningful relationships around the world. Whether you are traveling to over 162 countries and managing teams of over 20,000 people like Rhonda, or just trying to make an impact in your own community, these values and lessons surrounding diversity are essential. 

In our Catch The Moment podcast episode, we also covered how Vetere cultivated such a remarkable high-performance mentality. Growing up, Rhonda’s parents made it clear that she was going to have to work for everything she wanted on her own. She started working at just 12 years old and continued working full-time to put herself through college. She truly knows what it means to come from nothing and build the life you want from the ground up with grit and determination. Rhonda did not experience instant gratification from her hard work, instead, she had to keep grinding for years before she could reap the benefits. Her humble beginnings are what inspires her to give back today. All it takes is one person opening the door and showing someone how great they are, and Rhonda wants to be that person.

Not only is Ronda an experienced C-Suite Executive and digital transformation agent, but she is also a role model for women in the tech industry. Her success in such a male-dominated field is nothing short of incredible. However, she has made it clear that her success is 100 percent based on her performance and nothing else. “Call me up for performance, don’t call me up to fill a candidate slate for a woman,” Rhonda says, because the excellence of her work speaks for itself, and it has done so throughout her entire career. The thought of her often being the only female in the room never crossed her mind, until people started asking her about it. The men in her field have always respected her because they know she can and always will perform. 

While it is undeniable that her hard work has gotten her to where she is today, Rhonda didn’t do it all on her own. The mentors she had along the way, who were all men, challenged her and made her better. There were no women in tech for her to look up to and guide her toward success, so now she gets to be that woman for the next generation. Rhonda believes that “It’s a team, it’s not about I, it’s about WE” and nothing great can be accomplished alone. This teamwork mentality that values putting the collective above yourself has been critical to her success. 

As far as the future goes for Rhonda, she won’t be slowing down anytime soon. She believes that “Movement is Medicine” and she wants to continue innovating, growing, and making the world a better place. She is most excited to continue giving back and being very intentional about helping those who truly need and want it. Rhonda Vetere is a woman of such tremendous inspiration and impact, and we can’t wait to see how she continues to change the world. Give our podcast episode with Rhonda a listen to hear her full story!

LeSean "Shady" McCoy: Former NFL player

LeSean McCoy is a former NFL running back and 2x Super Bowl Champion who played for a total of 12 seasons. After playing at the University of Pittsburgh for only 2 seasons, McCoy was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft, making him a 20-year-old rookie and the youngest player in the entire league. LeSean went on to make remarkable impacts on the league becoming the rushing touchdowns leader in 2011, rushing yards leader in 2013, and winning a Super Bowl in each of his last 2 seasons in the league. On Episode 46 of our Catch the Moment Podcast, we were honored to have the opportunity to sit down with LeSean and dive deeper into his story.

McCoy spoke with us about how his upbringing shaped the goals and aspirations he had growing up. “Growing up in the hood I was blessed to have both of my parents, so a lot of stuff that my friends were doing and participating in I couldn’t do because my dad was at home,” says LeSean. His ultimate goal was to succeed so that he could take care of his parents and improve their situation. This fueled his competitive drive and determination from an early age and allowed him to eventually play football at the highest level. LeSean and I connected on the importance of family as we talked about raising our children. We agree that having children makes you think about the little things you say and do that easily rub off on them. 

Throughout his time in the league, LeSean learned the importance of constantly evolving and growing as you enter new environments. “You work this hard not to be the same,” McCoy says as he discusses how he regrets not branching out more and taking advantage of the opportunities he had while in the prime of his career. Looking back, he wishes he would have made new connections to grow with, instead of being so adamant about only being around his “Day One’s.” He could have been learning from so many new people and making valuable connections. LeSean also learned the value of keeping people around you who hold you accountable when you make mistakes. The people who love you demand the best out of you because they believe in you and know what you are capable of. 

Ultimately, LeSean McCoy’s defining moment has nothing to do with football. “Mine is just being a walking role model to my kids…my kids are set up for life,” LeSean shares as he talks about how proud he is of his children. He wants his kids to see his accomplishments and know that those things are possible for them as well. LeSean’s football career may have ended, but his story is just beginning. He continues to be an inspiration through his success as a businessman and father, and the determination he cultivated within himself from a young age shines through to this day. Give our podcast episode with LeSean a listen to hear his full story!

Danny "Book 'EM" Rivera: Hip-Hop Artist and Law Enforcement Officer

Danny “Book’EM” Rivera is a man motivated by service, as he works to make an impact on his community that is bigger than his role as a law enforcement officer. Book’EM is the founder of The Bridges Project and the host of The Bookem Show. On episode 63 of our Catch The Moment podcast, Book’EM shared how his background has led him to become the bridge to the gap between the youth and law enforcement. He powerfully stated the reason behind it all, “My driving force is leaving a legacy – a positive legacy.” 

Book’EM is working to break down the stigma of ‘cop culture.’ Due to many unfortunate events that have taken place in today’s society, a large segment of youth have lost trust in law enforcement. In the media, law enforcement has primarily become associated with violence, discrimination, or unjust behavior. However, Book’EM has been making the effort to represent himself and his role as an officer in a different light. He has recognized the importance of remembering, “You weren’t born with a badge, you were born with a heart.” Using this motto, he has allowed the public to see him for who he truly is, rather than for a badge and stereotype that does not define him. Furthermore, Book’EM has shown dedication to using his musical talent to connect himself to the youth in a more relatable way. His love for writing music began at an early point in his life, as he used it to escape from the hardships of his lifestyle, including battles with mental health and domestic violence. Using this outlet to overcome those challenges, he has found a way to help others benefit from his musical efforts. 

The Bridges Project is a non-profit organization, founded by Book’EM, focused on community outreach. Through mentoring and additional resources, the organization works to build confidence in the youth through teaching and strengthening their leadership qualities. Book’EM has shown consistency in his allegiance to ‘protect and serve’ as he exemplifies the genuine meaning behind that phrase.

Despite what others in law enforcement may be doing, he is confident in his belief, “You need to be a big fish in a small pond, not a small fish in a big pond.” Tune in to the episode featuring Danny “Book’EM” Rivera to learn more about how he has set himself apart by making himself a part of the community.

Eric Reid: Former NFL Player

Eric Reid is a former NFL safety who played for a total of seven seasons. At the collegiate level, he played for Louisiana State University and advanced to be selected as a first-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers. Reid is widely known for his participation in the National Anthem protest. However, many have not heard the full story. We were grateful to welcome Eric Reid on episode 42 of our Catch The Moment podcast to discuss his football career and how his decision and commitment to kneeling during the anthem changed his life.

Reid’s performance on the field has been overlooked since his actions during the protest. Undoubtedly, he was a leader on the field as a safety, with his statistics and achievements to prove it. His role as a leader throughout the National Anthem protest allowed him to be noticed in a different light. With Colin Kaepernick being the catalyst of the protest, it was Reid’s idea to take a more respectful approach to their societal concerns and kneel rather than sit during the National Anthem. Reid emphasized his intentions by sharing, “I thought it was an opportunity that I could be a voice to people who weren’t being heard. People [...] who would have these encounters with police officers, and they would get covered up.” Even with pure intentions and a respectful stance, Reid explains how other public figures, the media, and the NFL responded negatively to his actions.

Social media immediately shared their opinions on Reid and other players, which included the use of derogatory names. The most impactful reaction to the protest was made by former President, Donald Trump. “He called us SOBs…Now we have owners who don’t want to see the protest happen anymore because the president of the United States is threatening them with taxes or something.” Reid also came face to face with the newly formed Player’s Coalition and NFL owners, leading to a rise in disagreement. Following this, an altercation on the field occurred with Reid and another player. Even while dealing with offensive responses to the protest, Reid expressed his confidence and determination to do what he believed he needed to do for a cause bigger than himself. 

Reid’s involvement in the National Anthem protest was not respected by many people. He was only hoping to do what felt right, and it cost him opportunities within his career, including being signed to the Cincinnati Bengals. After being released from the Carolina Panthers in 2020, Reid has found peace through his relationship with his family and God. Even with the backlash he received, he believes he did what was right after receiving confirmation through the statement, “God is looking for a quality person, not a quantity of people.” Listen to the full episode with Eric Reid to learn how one kneel shifted the course of his career.

Dr. DeForest B. Soaries: Author, Public Speaker, and Corporate Director

Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. is an author and public speaker, with an outstanding background in social activism and religion. This foundation has led him to become the President and CEO of Corporate Community Connections, Inc., which encourages the expression of social responsibility and community impact for numerous companies. On episode 55 of our Catch The Moment podcast, Dr. DeForest shares how his family values, collaboration with community leaders, and responses to social issues, have shaped him into the knowledgable man he is today.

Dr. DeForest and I connected over our humble beginnings in Montclair, NJ. He appreciated the strong presence of community and deeply rooted history of civil rights and education. Furthermore, with his life focused on school, community, and church, he recognized he was inevitably “saturated with purpose [and] with a sense of destiny…” A heartfelt experience with his grandmother is what motivated Dr. DeForest to act on this profound destiny and discover how he wanted to shape his life to positively influence society. 

Moving forward, the passing of his father sparked Dr. DeForest’s desire to grow spiritually. While pursuing religion and social change simultaneously, he learned, “You can have a social movement that has a spiritual sound, or you can have a spiritual movement that has social relevance,” in which the latter is what he is in pursuit of. In fact, Dr. DeForest has lived by this statement through his previous success in various roles; these including Secretary of State in NJ and Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. 

Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. continues to base his actions around the values of spiritual growth, educational excellence, and economic empowerment. His books and podcast are only the beginning of what is yet to come regarding his recent plethora of achievements. You do not want to miss this episode with Dr. DeForest, which covers his full story and updates on what he has in store for the future.

Dan Karaty: 'So You Think You Can Dance' Star

Dan Karaty has left an indelible mark on the dance industry. With a career spanning over two decades, he has choreographed for some of the biggest names in the music and entertainment world, including Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, and Usher. Karaty's distinct style and creative vision have made him a sought-after choreographer with the skill and credibility to work on numerous high-profile projects, such as music videos, world tours, and television shows. On episode 52 of our Catch The Moment podcast, Karaty joined us for an inspiring and insightful conversation, highlighting his contributions to the world of dance.

Karaty shared his personal journey and the challenges he encountered along the way. What appeared to be a youthful love for partying had shifted to a daily battle with alcohol abuse. Despite this struggle, his success continued by being one of the first judges of the reality television dance competition, So You Think You Can Dance, and judging on the talent competition, The X Factor. He felt that his career had never stopped elevating due to his performance and relationship with others remaining consistent. However, he faced internal consequences such as entitlement, denial, and fluctuating confidence levels. Currently being two years sober, he recognizes the motivation he received from his daughter is what helped him find a permanent solution to the issue he consistently ignored. While now striving to be an example to his daughter, Karaty stated, "I started to recognize that not only do I not have to control everything around me, that I don't have control of everything around me.” This has allowed him to approach parenting, as well as advancement in his career with a more positive and effective mindset.

To this day, Karaty uses his story as a motivating factor for others to reveal their truth. By doing so, he has started his own podcast titled, If I’m Being Honest, and is anticipating the release of his novel titled the same. In regards to his career, he remains known as ‘the Simon Cowell’ of international versions of So You Think You Can Dance, located in Europe. We encourage you to tune in to the Catch the Moment episode featuring Dan Karaty to dive deeper into his response to adversity and how he pushed to overcome it.

Andrew Hawkins: Co-Founder, President at StatusPRO

Andrew Hawkins is a 37-year-old former American football wide receiver. He played with the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns for six seasons in total. Andrew also played in the Canadian Football League with the Montreal Alouettes for two seasons. In his off-season, he played for the New England Patriots. Andrew spoke on episode 43 of our Catch the Moment podcast discussing his time playing in the NFL and creating his business afterwards. 

After Andrew’s NFL career, getting a job was a bit of a battle. “I was told as well as my peers, my family members, my teammates that if you weren't on the field there's no value for you in sports. You can't affect business, you can't affect technology, you can't be a decision-maker. And so I'm like how do I create something where all the value and the expertise comes from people who have been there? [...] That's why I created StatusPRO,” says Andrew. His ultimate goal is to share insights on life as a player outside the game and to make that experience better for those after him.

In the episode, Andrew shares his most impactful moment during his career saying “It was like a realization I had to look in the mirror and say okay I've devoted my life to this thing and I had to make a decision. Was I going to feel used up or was I going to get some get back? And I'm like, I feel like I've earned the right to be in this space and so I just made that decision. Like it doesn't matter what anybody says, I'm gonna blaze my own path, create opportunity for myself, and create opportunities for people that are also in this situation.” Hawkins started to see his own potential in the professional football industry and didn't let anyone around him stop that progress. “It's a mindset, it's a devotion. Your life's the longest relationship you got and that was the kind of pivotal moment because once you make the commitment then you're willing to make the necessary sacrifices.” 

When describing how he overcame pushback from others, Hawkins says “The hell everybody says, I'm gonna make it happen and I made it happen. And what that did for me was set the blueprint for when I had to get from college to the league, when I had to transition to business, when I had to start my own company. It's this whole concept of, hey if I believe and I put the work in, it does not matter what anybody else does.” And he definitely put in the work. According to the StatusPRO website, their tech is the ultimate XR football training platform developed specifically for NFL clubs, coaches, and players. The platform allows players to gain a competitive edge while keeping health and safety at the forefront.

Andrew Hawkins has made great strides in the business world and shows that he has not let anyone stop him and will not in the future. He continues to build and grow his business while helping other athletes around him, and he is truly someone we can all learn from. Give our podcast with Andrew a listen to hear his full story.

Justin Ashley: Racecar Driver and Entrepreneur

Justin Ashley is a 28-year-old professional racecar driver with 7 career wins under his belt already. Justin has also been awarded the NHRA Rookie of the Year Award due to his performance and relationships on and off the racetrack. Not only is Justin the youngest driver competing in NHRA’s premier Top Fuel Dragster category, but he is also the President of Ashley Developers. Ashley Developers was created by Ashley and is a real estate investment organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of distressed properties. Justin spoke on episode 36 of our Catch the Moment podcast discussing his desire to leave the sport better than when he entered. 

The podcast started with Justin telling us the thought process of how he started off as a racecar driver. His father raced when he was little and there was “a family atmosphere and a team atmosphere” that attracted him to pursue the sport. After talking with his father, they advised a plan to work his way up to race on a professional level. Ashley didn’t want to just put all his eggs into one basket racing though, so he developed a second part of his career investing in real estate. He did this to not be dependent on racing, and to gain more knowledge about business to apply to the racing world. 

Sharing his experience on the mental aspect of what he does, Justin says that “there has been many times when I look at myself in the mirror, and ask myself is this really worth the journey, is this really worth it.” He explains that with each downfall there is something that he learns and uses to grow and get better for next time. Justin also dives into those who have helped him and encouraged him throughout the process, including Antron Brown. Not only is Ashley inspired by the fact that Brown has won three world championships, but also by the way that he carries himself off the racetrack when it comes to his sponsorships. “90% of racing is business and the other 10% is actually being out there racing,” says Justin. 

Justin and I end the episode with a lesson to use in our own lives; there is a physical aspect to everything, especially in sports, but your mental health side needs to be doing great so that you can perform your best. He compares this to football and says that “you can go play football and work out 5-6 times a week in preparation, but if your mental side isn't right, what's the difference, the result is not going to show on the field.” 

Justin Ashley’s journey from the start of his career and how he has navigated his business and the sports world is very inspirational. Justin continues to race and plans to spend most of his time improving his craft. He is truly someone we can all learn from and will be someone interesting to follow. Give our podcast episode with Justin a listen to hear his full story.

Cellus Hamilton: Christian Rapper and Author

Cellus Hamilton is an author and Christian rapper who was born and raised in the great city of Atlanta, GA who now resides in New York City where most of his music was made. Some of his top hits include Choices, Same War, Good Friday, Strength of My Heart, and so many more. Cellus spoke on episode 24 of our Catch The Moment podcast discussing his musical journey, Christian background, and future plans. 

At the early age of 8 years old, Cellus started making music. He was born into a musical family and spent a lot of his young years inspired by both his mother and father. His mom was a rapper who toured and would practice performances in their living room, and his dad sang in the music choir. It was no surprise he developed a passion for the craft of music just like them. 

With the love of rap came the culture of hip-hop and what’s often associated with that culture, and Cellus felt that struggle. “Rap was always my pass, I was always able to walk into certain spaces because I could rap. I grew up in a Christian home, but I always tried to be street. I had a dad at the crib…he was present, he was telling me…how to be a man and was raising me right, but I was attracted to…foolishness around,” Cellus explained to me. 

After graduating high school, Cellus attended Howard University where he was ultimately declined the ability to finish his senior year due to tuition bills out of his control. The devastation on his part was an understatement, but he kept himself busy with a variety of jobs. “I was doing a lot of things but I didn’t feel like I was walking in my purpose, and I always knew music was what I was called to do.” With a little help from his father, it soon became clear what his next step would be…

“You’ll have the rest of your life to work…but right now you don’t have a wife and a family, this is the chance where you can take a risk and if you don’t eat for a few days it’s only you not eating…you got a chance and an opportunity to trust God because in other seasons where you have responsibilities, you won’t have this freedom to just take risks” - Cellus Hamilton, quoting his father. 

At age 22, Cellus moved to New York to pursue his music career. He started rapping on trains for some extra cash and handing out business cards. Eventually, he established himself in the rap scene and began getting noticed. Cellus was able to separate the negative culture that hip-hop sometimes brings on rappers and really apply his own approach to the art with his religious beliefs. 

After working with some prominent artists and producing some amazing work, Cellus is now at a point in his life where he’s “actually not focused on trying to prove that I think I’m the best” and is at a new season in his life where is he pursuing ministry at a church. His life is currently centered around prioritizing his family and worshipping the lord, and he plans to figure out how music can be incorporated into this new journey. 

Click here to check out our podcast episode with Cellus Hamilton.

New Jersey Devils Legend: Kenneth Stephen Daneyko

Kenneth Stephen Daneyko is a 3x Stanley Cup Champion with the New Jersey Devils and is currently a Devils color analyst for MSG Network and NHL Network. He has been nicknamed “Mr. Devil” by Devils fans, as he currently holds both the franchise record for games played as a Devil with 1,283 games and in penalty minutes with 2,516. Ken spoke on episode 32 of our Catch The Moment podcast discussing his life journey, his thoughts on the NHL, and so much more.

“We were terrible when I started… I just wanted to be part of the answer, part of the solution… everybody thinks, do you wanna be on a better team?… No, I said, I want you be here. I want to go through the tough times because I know how gratifying the good times will be. I kept telling everybody, trust me, we're gonna be something someday.” - Ken Daneyko

One of his life-changing memories he shared with me was getting drafted. He had been out the night before and was sleeping in a bit. He knew they were doing the draft that morning, but he was not expecting to get drafted in the first round. To his surprise, his mother bursts into his room saying he has a phone call that he needs to take immediately. When he picks up the call, the first thing he hears is “Congratulations Ken, we’ve just drafted you 18th”. Ken was so thrilled he almost forgot to ask the team he was drafted to. “I go, by the way, who is this? They go, it’s New Jersey. They didn’t have a team name yet… hadn’t even picked a team name."

Another one of Daneyko’s favorite memories in life was winning the Stanley Cup for the first time in 1995. “First five years, our team was a bottom feeder. We were terrible. So to still be on the team and turn the corner in ’88, that was a huge moment,” says Daneyko, while explaining why it was such a defining moment in his life.

This Ukrainian-Canadian former professional ice hockey defenseman played his entire twenty-season career with the New Jersey Devils. The Devils were, and still are, very much a part of Daneyko’s life. Sharing details about how the administration stuck with him even during his worst times, he says “I’m grateful because I had the right people in my organization that believed in me… I care for them because they cared for me.” After struggling with substance abuse throughout his career, Ken was able to resurrect his mental health with the support of many, including the New Jersey Devils.

Ken Daneyko’s journey through life is one we can all admire. He is truly an icon and New Jersey royalty. Give the podcast episode with him a listen to hear his full story.

Listen Now.

Commitment

There’s no better day than today to get something done. Most people don’t know that I am the father of seven vibrant, beautiful, healthy children. Before I get off on a tangent about how we got seven children or what kind of vehicle I drive, or whether all of my children are with the same woman…let me tell you why I make mention of my children today.

When I mention to people in conversation that I am a father of seven children, the reactions are all across the board. I will discuss the wide range another time. One of the most common responses we get in sincerity is “How do you guys do it? I’m going crazy with my ________ children". To add some extra special sauce to the conversation, I share with them that we currently homeschool five out of the seven children (Really my wife does, but I'm the superintendent). Now the amazement comes into play. You will very likely be underwhelmed with the answer to “how we do it?”

We are able to get this done among many other things in life simply because we are committed to it. I have acknowledged this truth on the basis of experience and observation. Commitment overcomes adversity which life guarantees us all. Commitment overcomes the emotional roller coasters which cause queasiness and instability. The committed soul has an expectation they expect to see realized & on that premise alone they will not relent and are willing to make necessary changes in life to secure and honor their commitments. They have the faith to press beyond the resistance. They are committed to the process therefore drawing back is not an option.

Your greatest accomplishments in life have arrived because you were committed to the process.

The beauty of commitment is that it has its roots in a decision or a choice which gives us the ability to determine a large part of the outcome. When you are considering a new opportunity or a challenge that is before you, don't simply shrink back as you gather the facts that could prevent your ideal outcome. Acknowledge your past victories in life. The likely common denominator is you were committed to the success of that particular thing or person until you weren't anymore or the full expectation was met. You can win through commitment!

The glory of my family is firmly rooted to honoring my commitments. First my commitment to Jesus. My commitment to excelling in my sphere of responsibility where my wife and children safely reside. I am committed to their highest welfare and because of that I can't lose!

BE WELL!! DO WELL!!

Leadership in the NFL

Leadership is a dynamic that is so natural yet so murky. It is so inspirational yet so tragic. This is true on the basis that there are people involved.  Anytime there are people involved fallibility exists. Leadership flows from the river of an individual's life. One's life ultimately consists of what they believe and the ability to live what they believe. The X-factor oftentimes in this simple equation becomes the individuals' motives or motivation for all of their living. Without breaking this down much further  we can all observe how difficult it is to cultivate and identify leaders today.

An important factor to consider in this conversation is how can an individual be a great leader and a bad leader without contradiction?  It is easy to look through the annals of history and highlight Abraham Lincoln, Malcolm X, and Winston Churchill as leaders that have influenced nations through their convictions and ability to move their audience toward a common goal. These are obvious great leaders. But what about individuals like Adolf Hitler and Saddam Hussein. Didn't they effectively live what they believe and impact their nation and move them toward a common purpose? Absolutely, these men were great leaders, but they were equally bad or evil leaders the entire world grew to despise and their legacy reflects it.

This is a conundrum we have faced since human inception. The moment we introduce good, bad, right, or wrong we are introducing the demand for moral accountability. We not only expect people to be able to do their job, but we expect you to be a decent person while you're going about your job.

So it is today, we have NFL players who off the strength of talent and opportunity, immediately become a greater influence than some of our nations longstanding political leaders. Yet, their unrefined morality finds them guilty of everything from fraud to even murder. The question becomes, How do we transform a great influencer into a noble leader?

Let's take my life as an example:

In 2003, at the age of twenty-three I entered the National Football League with the mantra that football is life. I excelled beyond my peers entering into this elite fraternity of men. Having graduated from Syracuse University in four years it is easy to conclude I had a built considerable amount of influential equity. With those external accolades alone, it would appear that I would be an example worth taking note of.

That is until the following year, when my life was unraveled and the person I truly was came to the surface. I was exposed as a fraudulent representation of a good influence. In that moment the one thing I knew for certain was that I didn't know anything. My worldview was at stake!  As much as I believed football was life, I realized that it didn't cultivate the character necessary to sustain the platform I had inherited as a professional athlete.

Today, over ten years removed from the personal failure which sparked my redemptive purpose, I am considering the landscape of leadership in America. I can only conclude that we are at a great deficit of moral integrity amongst leadership, which can only lead to the erosion of a culture. So much so that now we are looking to our modern day heroes and gladiators of the gridiron for hope and inspiration.

Any good leader is going to have to meet the the standard of uprightness to leave a lasting impact. This is the standard the young men of the NFL must ascend to. While proven examples of men with high integrity are scarce, they do exist amongst the NFL population which gives us all hope.

May the entirety of your life serve as an inspiration to all that you have influence with.