Candid Conversations

Last Wednesday, October 1, 2025, I had a candid conversation at 0800 in the morning while standing in line waiting for the Post Office to open.

It was at somewhat of a surreal moment that I realized in life, we will meet people from different cultures anywhere.

I also realized that the people we meet always have a story to tell.

Today, I will tell a story of elderly, small Hawaiian woman who has a super big heart.

Imagine someone weighing less than 100 pounds and very petite.

As she and I waited patiently for the local post office to open, she made a statement, “Can you believe it, we are already in the month of October, where has time has flown by so quickly.”

Because I’m always curious about people and have learn to properly ask so that I don’t insult anyone, I then asked her politely where she was from, as she responded “Hawaii.”

From that moment on, we were in steady conversation for about ten minutes, passing the time holding candid conversations.  We waited patiently for the person to unlock the door.

I decided it was time to head back home, being 15 minutes had already passed.  Although the lights were on, the doors remained locked, and no one ever came to open them.

My friend, on the other hand, had four large mailers which she needed to mail and decided to wait for them to open; being a retired person with plenty of time to waste, at least today.

It was through that candid conversation that she told me about being retired and her recent trip to Hawaii, which was somewhat like the one I had experienced during the month of August 2025.  My trip to Pennsylvania had an unexpected 11-hour delay, while her trip was a 24-hour delay, having been put up in a hotel because of a seat belt malfunction.

As I walked away, I thought about her comments tied to patience that she told me about the Hawaiian Gods, as it would not be good to complain.

I then thought about a compliment that was given to me by one of my friends, who said I never complain when asked how I am doing.

It’s through these candid conversations that we build on our character and let others see how Christ or our Deity who lives within us.

I witnessed Christ in her and her faith through her actions.

How we show up each day is up to us.

We all have met people who have nothing good to say, regardless of how well things are going.

They can always find fault with something, which makes me grateful that my emotional intelligence is regulated towards better self-awareness.

It’s my reminder of a quote I’ve seen that says, “You can complain that roses have thorns or rejoice that thorns have roses.”

When we all woke up last Wednesday, October 1, 2025, knowing there were going to be some candid conversations about the recent Government shutdown.

We all know the implications when organizations go on strike; now, many are thinking about the Government shutdown as the effects are felt globally.

The candid conversation that we were supposed to have on September 30, 2025, failed, and as a result, we continue to live in a divided country.

I’ve said plenty, I believe, to allow you to think about holding candid conversations with others concerning our country.

I’ll leave you with this quote from Kim Scott: “Communication is the No.1 trait that leads to higher levels of success, yet hardly anyone invests time and resources to becoming a better communicator.”

Today, my challenge to you is to think about the candid conversations you are having and how well you are communicating with the other person.  Have you invested time and resources in becoming a better communicator?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/candid-conversations/

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Mediocre and Average

Average Ordinary Common Regular Concept

Many years ago, I was reminded of a promise that I made when I joined the Maxwell Leadership Team.  It was a promise to remove the word “average” from my vocabulary when I became a Maxwell Leadership Certified Speaker.

It’s something that I have not forgotten.

Today, anytime I speak under the Maxwell Leadership Umbrella, I strive for excellence and not to be average.

The owner at the time, Dr. John C. Maxwell, reminded us that we are given the right to carry his name, and we should do everything in our power to uphold and protect the reputation of the company and his name.

Each of us also carries a family name, which we must uphold for our reputation.

As I thought about my topic for today, I wanted to write about why so many people are average.  As we enter yet another week of the Government Shutdown, there are various names on people’s tongues that are just being average or mediocre.

The word mediocre carries various connotations, such as “of moderate or low quality, value, ability, or performance.”

MEDIOCRE Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

I believe that today you don’t want to be placed in a category of someone who is known for moderate or low quality, value, ability, or performance.

The word Mediocre “comes to English via Middle French from the Latin word mediocris, meaning “of medium size, moderate, middling, commonplace,” and perhaps originally “halfway to the top.” The noun form of mediocre is mediocrity.”

Many times, we see people who do things halfway.

I know as an Educator, the word average is difficult to imagine in an environment that teaches both young and old.

I know this firsthand during the 1996 Olympics when I was working for three weeks in Atlanta, seeing the various pins worn that said anything but average, such as “Faster, higher, stronger.

I’m also sure you have all heard this adage: “Any Job Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Right the First Time.”

Sometimes we come across people who have a mindset of mediocrity and don’t necessarily value the importance of time and attention to detail.  You can also tell by their leadership styles.

Maybe that’s why Dr. John C. Maxwell made it a point not to be average because being average means that we would settle for mediocrity.

“The time is always right to do what is right.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain

Yet in 2025, we still have people who don’t want to do the right thing or do things right the first time.

There’s another word called Perfectionism that many grapple with in today’s world. As you read the article in Psychology Today that talks about G. K. Chesterton, maybe you will agree or not?

“Anything worth doing is worth doing badly.” — G. K. Chesterton

“One of my favorite quotes is from G. K. Chesterton, a Christian philosopher who argued that most of what must be done to make the world go ’round is done by the average Joe who does not do it perfectly — or sometimes even well.”

Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Badly | Psychology Today

As it relates to perfection, there are various opinions based on our own personalities how we each see things.

Some strive for higher levels than others, and some might say it’s good enough until the next time if it surpasses the previous outcomes.

How we look at perfection can also tell us what our North Star looks like.

I desire that you find refuge in doing the right thing and doing it right.

It’s a matter of Integrity even when no one is watching. It’s not always easy, but it builds character and strength.

Sometimes we must get outside of our comfort zones, and the truth of the matter is that many know the right thing to do, but the hard part is doing it.

What are we settling on these days and why?

The question is, what’s your desire these days?

Each of us has a gap we can close in making us better to move beyond being mediocre or settling. It’s tied to perfection, or maybe it’s a matter of reaching your North Star, which might be that void in your life.

Sometimes we must build that bridge to cross the chasm in our lives where we intentionally want to go from mediocre to excellence.

This reminds me of the book, “Made to Stick, by Chip Heath and Dan Heath, and being marked as inferior.

It could be speaking in different languages of either abstract or concrete.

Each of them also has abstract or concrete goals.

Today is the day I challenge you to remove average from your vocabulary and seek excellence in all that you do. You already know what the average person is, being average.  So why not challenge yourself not to be the average person?

All it takes is a mindset shift from fixed to a growth mindset.

As Jim Rohn says, “Average people look for ways of getting away with it; successful people look for ways of getting on with it.”

Or as Jim Rohn say’s “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

Pick your company carefully!

As a Maxwell Leadership Professional, I’ll close with this: The difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to…failure.”  John C. Maxwell

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/mediocre-and-average/

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Irrepressible

Today, on this Monday, October 13, 2025, happens to be two holidays this year: Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Although most public schools are closed in honor of the holidays, I, too, am an advocate for the Indigenous People.

When you know what took place with the explorer Christopher Columbus and how the use of violence and slavery had subjugated the native people he encountered after landing in the Americas in 1492, then you will understand.

This week, I find myself revisiting a word that will not leave my head, it’s “Irrepressible.”

Merriam-Webster defines irrepressible as “impossible to repress, restrain, or control.”

IRREPRESSIBLE Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

When I look at the three words repress, restrain, or control, which are connected to impossible, it’s my task today to tell you why I can’t get the word “Irrepressible” out of my head.

For many, this word may not be in your vocabulary or one that you haven’t used in a while but give it a chance.

It was given as the Word of the Day during one one my Toastmasters meetings last week and is still stuck in my head today.

What was uncanny was how three designated speakers for the evening all displayed being irrepressible.

One spoke about Domestic Violence, one spoke about Emotional Intelligence, and one spoke about Finding your purpose again.

Repress– REPRESS Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

These are things we do that we may not like, such as injustice, subdue our thoughts, manage self-control or anger, and exclude from consciousness our thoughts that we repress from memory tied to abuse.

Restrain- RESTRAIN Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

These are things we prevent from doing, exhibiting, or expressing.  We limit ourselves, and sometimes we deprive ourselves of a specific pleasure or ability that is within us.

Control- CONTROL Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

These are things that we may see others doing and subconsciously watch as a person exercises restraining or directing influence over their anger, as they regulate their emotional intelligence at various levels.  It’s also apparent in relationships and in the workplace that those who exercise power over a person or organization.

During the pandemic, we witnessed all types of control and how some people could not handle the solitude of not being able to communicate.

The speeches that I mentioned earlier, Domestic Violence, Emotional Intelligence, and Finding Your Purpose Again, all had elements of what I wrote about above.

Sometimes it’s impossible to sleep when we have thoughts in our heads that we want to write out or speak about. We hear the analogy “what keeps you up at night.”

The word “Irrepressible”, as I drill down, is one of those words, as I mentioned, that may not be in your vocabulary; however, in your unconscious mind, you are doing these things daily.

It’s almost like the expression “You can’t put your finger on it,” but you know it’s happening.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we should all be aware of those who have had to repress, restrain, or control the forces within them, becoming “Irrepressible” human beings.

DVAM 2025: With Survivors, Always | Domestic Violence Awareness Project 

Emotional Intelligence is one of my favorite topics because of all five tenets or components.  Self-awareness, Self-regulation, Social skills, Empathy, and Motivation.

Again, it’s that awareness, specifically self-awareness and self-regulation of those who have had to repress, restrain, or control the forces within them become “Irrepressible” human beings. Sometimes we must do a better job as well as exercising empathy for those we me on the street, because we have not walked in their shoes.

Emotional Intelligence Theories & Components Explained

In Finding Your Purpose Again, I’ve always enjoyed reading books by the late Dr. Myles Munroe.  One of them is “Living With Purpose: Devotions for Discovering Your God-Given Potential.”

I’ll leave you with one of his many quotes about the graveyard or cemetery.

“The wealthiest place in the world is not the gold mines of South America or the oil fields of Iraq or Iran. They are not the diamond mines of South Africa or the banks of the world. The wealthiest place on the planet is just down the road. It is the cemetery. There lie buried companies that were never started, inventions that were never made, bestselling books that were never written, and masterpieces that were never painted. In the cemetery is buried the greatest treasure of untapped potential.” ~ Myles Munroe

It’s within those words written by Dr. Myles Munroe that I know I must always follow my dreams and live out my purpose. What about you?

Maybe now you understand why the word “Irrepressible” continues to resonate with me so well.

Today, my challenge to you is to think about your one word that stays on your mind that you can’t seem to forget about, and what lessons have you learned from it?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/irrepressible/

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Why Choosing the Best Public Speakers in Alabama Guarantees Event Success

You’ve invested time, money, and energy into planning your next event—be it a corporate retreat, leadership summit, or community forum. Every detail matters: venue, agenda, catering, logistics. But at the heart of a truly memorable event lies one critical ingredient: the speaker. The right speaker can inspire, engage, and motivate your audience to take action. That’s why when you aim for excellence, you turn to the Best Public Speakers in Alabama. Choosing a top-tier speaker ensures your event isn’t just another date on the calendar – it becomes a catalyst for transformation.

1. Credibility That Amplifies Your Brand

Your choice of speaker reflects on your event’s credibility. A respected, accomplished voice lends prestige and authority to your agenda. Engaging one of the Best Public Speakers in Alabama signals to attendees, sponsors, and partners that you don’t settle for mediocrity. You elevate expectations—and deliver on them. That association rubs off: attendees will view your organization as professional, serious, and committed to excellence.

2. Audience Engagement That Drives Impact

Even the most expertly arranged event fades if your audience zones out. A highly skilled speaker knows how to read a room, pace content, and adjust dynamically to audience reactions. They weave stories, interactive elements, and rhetorical techniques to hold attention. By investing in one of the Best Public Speakers in Alabama, you get a presenter who doesn’t just recite facts, but connects — forging emotional resonance, challenging assumptions, and spurring engagement.

3. Customized Messaging That Aligns to Your Goals

Your event has a unique vision: change behavior, ignite innovation, drive performance, or foster community. A great speaker doesn’t bring a one-size-fits-all speech—they tailor their content to your mission, participants, and objectives. By partnering with the Best Public Speakers in Alabama, you ensure that key messages align to your brand, metrics, and audience’s needs. That alignment amplifies your event’s ROI.

4. Memorable Moments That Live Beyond the Stage

A successful event is one that lingers in your attendees’ minds long after it ends. The right speaker crafts powerful soundbites, memorable stories, and calls to action that stick. Attendees share them with peers, post them on social media, and act on them in their daily work. That kind of ripple effect transforms your event from a moment in time to a movement in motion.

5. Smooth Execution and Professionalism

Top-tier speakers bring more than content—they bring professionalism, reliability, and logistical know-how. They coordinate closely with your team on AV needs, timing, run-of-show details, and contingency planning. Their experience means fewer surprises, smoother transitions, and confidence that your agenda will flow. When you hire the Best Public Speakers in Alabama, you're investing in peace of mind.

6. Differentiation in a Competitive Landscape

Organizations host events all the time—how do you make yours stand out? One way is by booking a speaker who already has name recognition, credibility, or a unique voice. That differentiator can attract more attendees, garner media attention, and enhance sponsorship appeal. In markets across Alabama—from Birmingham to Huntsville to Mobile—offering a marquee speaker sets you apart, creating buzz and lifting attendance.

7. Proven Track Record Drives Results

A leading speaker brings past successes—case studies, testimonials, and measurable outcomes. You want someone who has moved audiences, influenced decisions, and generated positive feedback. By selecting from among the Best Public Speakers in Alabama, you tap into a network of proven talent. That track record gives you confidence your event won’t just “go okay” — it will deliver.

8. Seamless Collaboration and Partnership

The most effective speaker-client relationships are partnerships. A top speaker doesn’t just show up; they collaborate with you from planning stages through post-event follow-up. They attend coordination calls, support your marketing with video promos or bios, and integrate smoothly into your team. That level of partnership ensures a unified front and a seamless experience for your participants.

Final Thoughts

When your goal is excellence, you can’t afford second-best. Choosing among candidates who merely “fill the slot” is risky: you may end up with uneven delivery, disengaged audiences, or logistical complications. On the other hand, choosing from the cream of the crop brings confidence, credibility, and transformational results. For organizations seeking to host events that inspire, educate, and move people to act, partnering with a top-tier provider offering Best Public Speakers in Alabama is your strategic advantage. Let us help you turn your next event into the milestone your audience—and your brand—deserves.

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Bet on Yourself

Numbers today play an important part for many people.

We have telephone numbers for contacts we meet.

We have dietary numbers for how many calories we need to consume each day if we want to stay at a specific weight or dress or pant size.

We have numbers that show how well a company is performing, with stocks being sold by day traders who look at the various analytics of companies.

But what about the analytics for those living in the United States who decided to serve their country?

As a Veteran of 30 years of Active-Duty Military Service, there’s another number that many are not aware of; it’s the percentage of those who serve this great nation.

Whether you serve three years or 30 years, you’re still a Veteran.

This past week, from Sunday, September 21, 2025, to Wednesday, September 24, 2025, there was an event called the Military Influencer Conference (MIC) 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

It was a conference like no other, with information sharing and success stories culminating with a Gala of the Mighty 25 being recognized for their service.

What you’re probably unaware that only one percent of Americans have served in the military.

What Percentage of Americans Have Served in the Military?

For Veterans Day, facts about the US veteran population | Pew Research Center

The Military Influencer Conference (MIC) 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia, was an eye-opener with Veterans and Active-Duty personnel having open dialogues on succeeding outside of the Military.

“MIC is for leaders, entrepreneurs, content creators, creatives, and brands who shape and support the military community. With content tracks led by industry experts, whether you’re transitioning from the military, serving in social impact, looking to start or scale your business, or looking to grow your network, there really is something for everyone.”

Military Influencer Conference | 21-24 September 2025 – Atlanta – MIC

If you can imagine over 2,500 in attendance over those four days from all branches of the military, including military spouses, then imagine the logistics of feeding, housing, and the number of volunteers required to put on a conference of this magnitude.

I’m already marking my calendar to attend MIC 2026 in Tampa, Florida, next year, with proposed dates of September 23, 2026, to September 26, 2026.

There was a sense of giving back and helping others entering the business world to not make the mistakes they have made as leaders, entrepreneurs, and content creators, supporting the military community.

I began this blog because numbers today play an important part for many people.

Now knowing that only one percent of Americans have served in the military, the importance of this conference was also for those exiting the military, preparing for life after the military, whether you served three years or 30 years.

“On average, approximately 200,000 service members are discharged from the U.S. military each year. This figure includes individuals separating from all branches – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard – and encompasses both enlisted personnel and officers. The exact number fluctuates annually depending on various factors like recruitment rates, retention policies, budget considerations, and ongoing operational needs.”

How many people are discharged from the military each year? | [September Updated]

Although just like Walmart’s new “Who Knew?” campaign, starring Walton Goggins, aims to revamp its image as a digitally advanced retailer, the MIC was a refresh on the brands within the Military succeeding in the corporate world.

Walmart Refreshes its Image via ‘Who Knew?’ Ad Campaign Featuring Walton Goggins

In my opinion, sometimes you need to just bet on yourself, which is what the Military Influencer Conference (MIC) 2025 was all about. We, too, in the military are here as well, give us a try.

I’ll leave you with this quote from Pete Wentz: “Always bet on yourself, no matter what the odds are.  It means more to be in the race than watching the victory lap from the stands.”

“Bet on yourself!  You never lose if you bet on yourself!” ~ Greg Plitt

The Military Influencer Conference (MIC) 2025 was such an inspiration, letting me know that I’m still in the race and not watching the race.

Today, my challenge to you is figuring out what numbers you are looking at for yourself.  Ask yourself, when was the last time you bet on yourself?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/bet-on-yourself/

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