Finding Hope Within Our Fears

I was riding down a long escalator at the airport today when I heard loud crashing behind me. Someone had lost control of their large suitcase. It was tumbling down the 30 feet of empty space between us… Right at me!

It was moving fast, and there was no space to dodge. I feared it might hurt me or knock me off balance. I felt in danger. My heart rate went up. My nervous system activated.

I braced myself with a hand on the railing and raised my foot to try to stop the case’s momentum and pin it against the side of the escalator. Gratefully, it worked.

The owner was racing behind the bag with an overwhelmed, desperate look on her face.

She said, “I’m so sorry. It’s all my fault. I’m having such a terrible day. You could have been really hurt.”

Her vulnerability softened my fears. I replied, “Don’t worry. Everything turned out fine.” Then I paused and asked, “Do you need a hug?”

She didn’t hesitate. Her eyes got wet, and she softly said, “Yes, I do.”

So when we got to the bottom of the escalator I embraced her whole-heartedly. She burst into tears.

I said, “Everything is okay. You’re doing good. I’m so sorry you are having a tough day. It’s going to get better.” And she just kept crying. I cried with her.

A guy who had been watching all of this walked over and said, “I’ve had times like this. I get it.”

After a minute, she released the hug, and I stepped back. She seemed better. I offered her a blessing, and we both set off to catch our flights.

I believe all of us have this kind of compassion to offer. When we open our hearts to the struggles of others, we can set down our fears and truly cross over.

And hope can magically appear from nowhere - though, in truth, it was with us all along.

Strength in Surrender

I was so frustrated at the airport early this morning when a TSA agent told me to get out of the line.

I knew she was wrong. I argued. I resisted.

Then, I listened and realized she was right. I was in the wrong line. There was a different line that was better for me.

I admitted my mistake, apologized, thanked her, and walked to the other line.

I like to be right. I want to be the winner. But my life is so much better when I embrace humility when I need to.

Maybe you are struggling right now and you are battling your way into exhaustion. Maybe the victory is in surrender.

The Power of Strategic Storytelling

Strategic thinking is at the heart of many of our most important decisions. But let me ask you this: Are you harnessing the true potential of strategic storytelling?

Friends, if you're not strategically weaving the narratives that matter, the less desirable stories might just take the spotlight. People tend to remember the challenges and setbacks, and these stories can dominate the narrative.

But here's the good news —YOU have the power to shape this narrative. As a leader, you can't control what people say, but you can cultivate a culture that celebrates and amplifies the stories of triumph, resilience, and growth.

That is the essence of strategic leadership in storytelling. It's about inspiring your team to seek out the moments of brilliance, the acts of kindness, and the unwavering dedication that often go unnoticed.

I've poured my heart and soul into helping people tell their best stories in their life and through their work. This is my core message as a keynote speaker and filmmaker.

Being a Compassionate Disrupter

Mister Rogers was a disrupter.

We don’t normally talk about him that way. We see the kind, gentle energy of his on-screen presence.

But he was constantly challenging the status quo of children’s television. He saw a bigger vision, and he wasn’t afraid to be a troublemaker.

This reality about Fred Rogers has helped me immensely. I always want to bring compassion, care, and positivity. I want people to see the unrealized potential in themselves and in the world. But, within that vision, there is always some disruption. And that disturbs people who have a personal interest in things remaining unchanged.

I have always resisted that disrupting aspect of my energy. I just want to hug people and bring peace. But the full expanse of my calling in the world demands more. Maybe yours does too.

Meaningful growth calls for meaningful shifts.

Hope demands some troublemaking.

Impact requires boldness.

Even if your role model is Mister Rogers.

Your Story Is Bigger Than You Know

When I woke up on this day 6 years, I had no idea my life was about to change.

I felt so discouraged that morning. Many things in my personal & professional life weren’t going as I had planned.

I was speaking to a group of filmmakers in San Antonio, TX. It was the only speech on my calendar for the year, so I brought as much energy to the stage as I could.

On that particular day, there was someone in the audience who was touched by my message. He made a phone call and opened doors for me.

Within 6 months, I was traveling the country, delivering keynotes for all types of audiences. My entire career changed on that day, and I entered the most rewarding phase of my work so far.

Each time I think about that moment, I am reminded of this truth: No matter how you feel right now, the story of your life is much bigger than you know.

There is unexpected possibility within each moment, and today could be the day that everything shifts for you. Your job is to show up and bring your full self.

I know this is a difficult time, but I’m always cheering for you!

The Rhythm of Compassion

I was running through the Atlanta airport to catch a tight connecting flight. I rushed onto a crowded shuttle train to change terminals. A little boy sprinted ahead of his family and jumped onto the shuttle beside me. The doors closed behind him. The rest of his family were still on the platform. 

His parent’s faces instantly dropped. I saw the desperation in his mother’s eyes. I shouted through the glass, “We will meet you at the next stop. I will take care of him.” They were too shocked to respond as the train sped off. 

I took a knee next to him and introduced myself. Even through the mask, I could tell he was a special needs kid and anxiety was overwhelming him. I fully understood why his mom was in a panic.

We got off at the next stop, and a voice announced there was a problem that would delay train service. I was now certain I would miss my flight, and my schedule for the day was in big trouble. I could feel the chaos this would create for me.

I waited on the platform with him for a while. He never spoke, so I told him how much I liked his Ninja Turtles backpack and how brave he was for flying. I talked about how cool this airport was and how exciting it was going to be to see his parents in a few minutes.

Then the shuttles started moving again and his family appeared. They hugged him tight. His mom was crying. I blew them kisses, picked up my bag, and took giant leaps up the escalator. Maybe there was still a chance…

As I reached the gate, my heart sank. The boarding area was empty. But there was a single Delta employee at the desk. From 50 feet away, she called to me, “Mr Culp! I was supposed to release your seat, but I just knew you were going to make it. I took care of you.” I cheered and hustled down the jetway. She closed the door behind me.

As I sat in my seat - the last spot on a full flight - I felt so grateful. Sometimes it seems that there isn’t enough and all we can do is fight for ourselves. It feels like there isn’t room in our hearts to hold the stories of strangers. 

But love calls us to risk. To sacrifice what is comfortable and simple.

Sometimes the cost is high and our generosity seems to fall short. But every so often, we catch a glimpse of what’s possible. Our hearts beat together in a rhythm of compassion, and we dance through life together.

May we choose to share more of this kindness with each other.

We Need Each Other

After a speech, a woman named Susan tracked me down. She was battling Stage 4 cancer and wanted to share how my message had lifted her spirits.

I said, “I will pray for you. Actually, would you like to pray right now?”

She turned and told all the people around us: “We are going to pray. You can join us if you want.”

Moments later, surrounded by new friends, I prayed for Susan. I prayed for her healing and for the healing of the world. I prayed for strength, hope, and peace.

When I finished, we were all crying. I felt grace and light everywhere. And each person got a hug.

Dear friends, we need each other. We are built for connection and community, and life is better when we walk together.

I’m committed to being ready for these opportunities and keeping my heart open to engage them fully. I hope you will continue to join me.

A Moment for Self-Awareness

Many of us have been trying to hide from emotional & spiritual challenges our whole lives. We've avoided them & pretended they weren't real.

But the intensity of the last year has brought some of those difficulties to the surface. We find ourselves feeling unsettled, insecure, & vulnerable. We have strong reactions to the little things.

Yes, the virus has created stressful circumstances. However, a lot of what we are experiencing inside ourselves has been with us for a long time. This situation didn't create those inner struggles - it has just turned up the volume.

This is an opportunity for self-awareness & growth.

Commit to having more open dialogue with trustworthy people about your feelings & your struggles. Have conversations about the deep stuff.

- Why do I feel this way?

- What is actually causing these emotions in me?

- What am I really afraid of? Not just in the crisis, but every day?

- And how are those feelings keeping me from being my best?

When you feel like shouting or crying or running away, don't push the feeling down. Follow it to its source.

Our emotions are often the roadmap for deeper realities going on inside us. This is a moment to learn things about yourself that you've probably never seen.

2021 - You are Ready!

For the first time in 18 years, my son Logan’s room is empty. And I have lots of feelings about it.

The lockdowns derailed his plan to live in the college dorms, but he just found a great apartment, and we moved him in last night - on New Years Eve.

As I stand in his quiet room this morning, I’m thinking about both the joyful and sad moments I shared with my boy in this space. And I sense the beautiful possibilities as he moves to the next chapter. There are many unknowns, but he is ready.

I also feel this way about our first day of 2021 - plenty of experiences from the past year to consider, but so much faith for what’s to come. 

Today I am praying that you will have fresh vision and energy for the adventures ahead. 

May you feel grace behind you, strength within you, and hope before you.

Happy 2021. 

You are ready. 

Where Do You Speak?

I received a BIG compliment after yesterday’s keynote for credit union leaders... An attendee asked, “Do you speak at other events? Or ONLY for credit unions?”

That may not sound like praise, but here’s why it means SO much to me:

I speak for many industries, but I want everyone in the audience to feel that I understand the importance of their work & their impact. I do lots of research to make that happen. So, for me, his question was a huge compliment.

I’m grateful for these opportunities to affirm the hearts of heroes everywhere!

And thanks to Indiana Credit Union League for inviting me.

Hanging out with comedian Sinbad

I loved laughing with my new friend Sinbad!
Here's a short video from our podcast recording last night.

Just enough hair paste...

30 minutes before my Tech Rehearsal yesterday, I realized I forgot to pack my hair product. That may sound silly, but when you are talking to hundreds of people you want your hair to look right.

So I called an Uber and found a Target, in my pajamas. They had hair paste, so I was saved with moments to spare. But it was in a 4 oz container, which is .6 oz bigger than the TSA rules for carry-on. And I also needed it today in Kansas City.

So I quickly cleaned out the tiny shampoo bottle at the hotel and scraped some of the paste into it and I had just enough for today. Hooray!

My New Office

A few months ago, my office was destroyed by water damage. It took several weeks to get it functional again. It was really hard for me.

While I was traveling this week, my wife created a wonderful surprise. She assembled my career memories, childhood toys, & many other things I adore. And she built me a new, beautiful space.

I nearly cried when I saw it. It’s a perfect place for me.

Love you, Tricia Culp. And special thanks to designer Kathy Bowling for making it happen. You are awesome!

The JOKER movie & the invisible glass door

There’s a subtle moment in the film JOKER that really affected me.

Although this film is based on a character from comic books, it's a dark, heavy story. But I think it has a lot to teach us about compassion, grace, and empathy.

Here’s my video about it:

A Heroic Screening of LOOK TO THE SKY

The city of Ridgecrest, CA just hosted the largest screening of one of my films ever... 5,000 people!

Here’s the story: Last month, a series of earthquakes caused major damage to the city, including the loss of their local movie theater. The police chief decided to host a city-wide community event to encourage everyone & inspire hope.

They constructed an outdoor movie theater in the park for a free showing of my film LOOK TO THE SKY.

Around 5,000 people showed up!

And a local business gave away $20,000 in school supplies for local residents in need.

I’m grateful we could make a small contribution to the healing of Ridgecrest.

The world is filled with good people, and I am so glad my films can be a vehicle that empowers the light in them to shine.

The Things We Love Are the Same

Omar helped me get to the airport in Cancun, Mexico this morning. 

As he drove, we figured out that we are the same age (42), we’ve been married the same number of years (20), and our 2 kids are the same ages (17 & 14).

We are all unique in many ways. But, in our hearts, the things we love are the same.

Declare Who You Are

Three years ago, I announced a website for my speaking. It wasn’t an extra page on my filmmaking website. It was something new. 

The website wasn’t great. But it was a declaration: THIS is who I am & THIS is where I am going. 

It was the moment I got serious about keynote speaking. 

Since then, I have spoken at 98 events. I’ve shared my stories & my heart with tens of thousands of people. I’ve given hugs to countless new friends. 

Stop playing small. If you really believe, make a daring move & declare who you are. 

It might not work out the way you planned. Yes, you might fall on your face. But your life cannot change until YOU are willing to change.

Deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported my journey. Thank you for helping me be ME.

Building a Quiet Brand

At the height of the of popularity of Calvin & Hobbes , creator Bill Watterson made an unprecedented decision: he rejected all merchandising offers.

No licensing for stuffed animals, cartoons, lunch boxes, shirts, or stickers. He wouldn’t even talk to Pixar about an animated film. To this day, there is nothing for sale but reprints of the original comics.

When compared with brands like Peanuts & Garfield, it’s likely that Watterson turned down at least $400 million in deals.

His focus was the integrity of the art. He didn’t want these products to distract from the storytelling. He wanted his characters to live in just one format, with one voice.

Most industry experts predicted that when the newspaper strip ended in 1995, Calvin & Hobbes would disappear from public consciousness. Without new content or outside licensing, it would vanish. Conventional wisdom says that’s how you build brand recognition.

But Watterson intended it to be a self-contained work, within his control from start to finish. And he built exactly the brand identity he envisioned.

Calvin & Hobbes remains among the most successful comics in print. The collected editions of the original newspaper strips have sold more 30 million copies.

Today, many believe that Watterson’s refusal to license created a purity that keeps us intrigued with the original work. There is only one version of these iconic stories and that strengthens our love for them.

In our noisy world, sometimes the best branding isn’t about getting louder. Sometimes, it’s about quietly growing in your craft, obsessively pursuing the work, building real connections one person at a time, and focusing on the long-term legacy you are creating for your life & your career.

Be willing to LOSE so you can WIN

These days, being myself feels like a dream job. But there were times when it was torture. 

I was misunderstood. I was afraid. I was lost.

Being myself required me to walk into the fire. Into places that were uncomfortable & unknown. 

There were many logical reasons to compromise & fit into someone else’s vision of success. 

But I was willing to LOSE in many ways - sometimes for years - so I could ultimately WIN at being myself. 

The ‘real me’ eventually intersected with opportunities that have led to a beautiful place. A place where I am able to share my heart through inspiring films & speeches to audiences across the country. 

But none of that would have happened if I had accepted the typical career, the quick payout, or the simple answers. 

I’m grateful to be me. Even more, I am grateful I chose to stay true to my own process & my own version of success, even when it felt like failure.

It takes time, but eventually the world catches up with you.