Real-Life Inspiration for Leaders
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The Unknown: Pay Whatever You Want
Dear Friend,
On my birth certificate, the line for my father’s name reads simply: Unknown. This void has shaped my journey—from combat in Iraq and a national championship in football, to marriage in college and fathering six children. My life became a search for purpose, family, and belonging.
At 36, an Ancestry DNA test revealed a powerful connection. My father, Quentin Kelly, was an influential lawyer who had played college football, ran for judge, and even left behind a legacy—a bottle of scotch named in his honor. In a twist of fate, I also discovered I’d played high school football alongside a cousin, though neither of us knew we were family then.
This revelation inspired a local Fox News segment, The Ties That Bind Us, where I shared my story of discovering family and purpose in unexpected places.
As I reflect on my father’s journal, Real-Life, filled with entries that resonate in my own life, I’m reminded of one truth: “The unknown will try to break you, but in that breaking, you find the strength to stand.”
Joey Stutson
Who is endorsing this book?
Real-Life Inspiration for Leaders is a powerful and captivating guide to the timeless lessons you must embrace to become not just a leader but an inspired one—whether at home, in your career, or your community. Joey Stutson takes you on a journey through profound insights and real-life stories, offering a fresh, impactful perspective on leadership.
One of my favorite stories in the book is deeply personal. In honor of my old friend Quentin Kelly, Sazerac bottled one of our finest Scotches and named it Glen Quentin. The complexity and hint of spice in that Scotch perfectly mirror the depth and richness of Quentin’s story as told in this book. Just as the flavor of Glen Quentin lingers on your palate, the lessons of Real-Life Inspiration for Leaders will linger in your heart, offering inspiration you can carry with you for life.
Joey’s unique ability to communicate goes beyond just influence or platform-building, which many leadership books focus on today. He offers a new path—one where leadership is about inspiration. Influence and success follow naturally from that. True leaders know how to inspire and keep moving forward even when results aren’t immediately visible or influence isn’t tangible.
What makes this book invaluable is its practicality and depth. Whether you’re learning The Lesson of the Big Op or discovering how to sustain inspiration during adversity, you’ll find actionable wisdom to bring meaning, purpose, and joy to your life and your work. This book can jump-start your career if you’re new to leadership or elevate your journey if you’re already an established C-suite leader.
I highly recommend this book for its insights and because Joey’s gift for inspiration will leave a lasting mark on your organization. After reading this book, you’ll invite Joey to speak to your managers and leaders. His ability to ignite change and inspire action is unmatched, and your team will be better for it.
Bill Goldring