Stories

I served in the Navy Reserves from 1993-1998, took a twenty-two year break and then commissioned into the Army National Guard as a Chaplain in 2020. I was 50 at the time. I attended the Chaplains Basic Officers Leadership Course (CHBOLC) at 51. During one of our early meals a classmate whispered to me, "You're … Continue reading Get Uncomfortable

There are volumes written about the best way to achieve your goals. The acronym SMART is all over the place. In order to achieve your goals, they must be:Specific MeasurableAchievableRelevantTime bound I don't disagree at all. If you want to move forward in your life, you can't simply make some abstract statement about what you … Continue reading How SMART are your goals?

I am so grateful to Martha and Nina for inviting me on to their podcast to talk about life's transitions, our military, and mental wellbeing. It was an immensely enjoyable conversation. Hope to do it again soon. Give the episode a listen HERE, and be sure to follow Martha and Nina. If the conversation resonates … Continue reading Hiya Gorgeous!

I had a great time talking about chaplaincy, resiliency, and hope with Cameron and Dennis on SH!T Creek Survivors. You can listen/watch HERE. Let me know what you think in the comments.

As I've said before, I don't have any magic words that can change anyone's life. I don't have four easy steps to your best possible self. However, there is one phrase that I have found to be incredibly helpful over the years. Three words that can shift a conversation and change the direction of a … Continue reading TELL ME MORE

Thirty years ago I was in the Navy's Chaplain Candidacy program in San Diego, CA. I was being sent up north to work with Marine Corps recruits at Camp Pendleton. As the assignments were announced, one of the Senior Chaplains took me aside. He told me, "The Marines are very particular about order and protocol. … Continue reading BUTTER BAR

Today is the day we begin executing on the goals we have set for the year. In pursuit of those goals, I encourage you to do one simple -but not always easy- thing. Be HONEST. Are you working toward what you really want to accomplish? Dig deep and be honest with yourself about the goals … Continue reading MY HONEST WISH FOR YOU

Over 20 years ago, I attended a conference about work styles and productivity. At the beginning of the day, they led us in a personality assessment. They would ask questions-movies or books, mountains or beach- and based on your response, you walked to one of the four corners of the room.  After 20 questions and … Continue reading WHAT ARE YOU BRINGING?

Last week I wrote about creating habits that will help you make the changes you want to make in your life. I wrote that when you say something out loud it becomes real. But to whom should you say it? Who should you share your goals with? For years accountability groups have helped people change … Continue reading CAREFUL WHO YOU TALK TO