Steve White shares how he refused to be a victim and how unwavering commitment leads to an impactful life on the Live Inspired Podcast with John O’Leary.
With Mother’s Day upon us, today’s guest is a marvelous example of what’s possible with the love of a powerful mom.
As one of four boys raised by a single mother, Steve White’s life could easily have taken a different path. Instead, armed with his mother’s determination that her sons make better lives for themselves and his own refusal to be shaped by his circumstances, Steve forged a path to extraordinary professional and personal achievement.
Today, Steve shares lessons from every stage of life, and the people who influenced him along the way to form this overarching message: An uncompromising life is one where you stay true to what is important to you, what you believe in, and what you love.
You’ll leave this conversation ready to discover what matters most and where you can make the biggest difference.
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SHOW NOTES:
- “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” – Mark Twain
- Make a difference + create a table of prosperity for as many people as possible.
- The perfect candidate to be a victim, Steve + his three siblings were raised in the projects of Indianapolis by a single mom with an eighth-grade education.
- As a motel maid, Steve’s mother never let others prevent her from showing up to do her job with a positive attitude and be a good role mother for her children.
- Hand-up versus hand-out: Recognizing the difference, Steve’s mother exposed them to positive role models and those offering hand-ups through programs including Big Brothers Big Sisters.
- Great leaders see things in you that you don’t see yourself: In high school, basketball’s Coach Cline + teacher Ms. Goodrum saw Steve’s potential + led him towards his journey to Indiana University.
- In college, Steve + six others formed a social/study group Unique Incorporated, allowing him to see a way forward + teach him the value of friendships.
- “When you know your purpose, you’re always thinking long-term. You’re not making short-term decisions.”
- How to become clear on your why? Start with big questions.
- As a young professional, Darnell Martin saw Steve’s positive attitude and unrelenting effort, providing him a hand-up.
- While dealing with the headwind, Steve decided to measure himself against himself, and then against his potential gave him control of his journey.
- The 2022 White Family headline is “Choose Joy”.
- Get of a copy of Steve White’s book Uncompromising here.
Did you enjoy this conversation? You’ll love our curated playlist celebrating mothers. Listen to the Mother’s Day playlist here.
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About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
STEVE WHITE'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. The Bible and The Truth About Leadership by Barry Posner. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. The idea of if I knew I couldn’t fail I would do it. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. A silver box that was gifted to be before Stevie was born with notes others wrote about me. I haven’t had the chance to sit down and share them with Stevie yet. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. My dad. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Don’t be a victim. Others know more about you by how you spend your time and who you spend time with. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Relax. Don't be in a hurry. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. I know he was here.
