Episodes
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Show Notes:
In this thought-provoking episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, host Keith L. Callaway takes listeners on a journey through five profound random thoughts, weaving them together with practical wisdom and faith-based insights. Drawing from personal experiences, Albert Einstein’s famous quote, and the transformative power of scripture, Keith explores how small, intentional changes can lead to greatness.
Key Topics Covered:
Albert Einstein’s Wisdom: “We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them.” How this principle applies to personal growth.Random Thought #1: The importance of commitment to avoid distractions.Random Thought #2: The first mountain to conquer is lust—an honest and personal reflection.Random Thought #3: Why banned books often hold valuable truths.Random Thought #4: How pain can be a profound teacher, driving wisdom and growth.Random Thought #5: The value of cash and debt freedom for true financial freedom.Scripture and Personal Faith:
Keith shares compelling data on the impact of reading the Bible four or more times a week, revealing its profound effects on personal behavior and spiritual growth. From decreased struggles with anger and pornography to an increase in sharing faith and mentoring others, he outlines why scripture is the ultimate source of wisdom for overcoming life’s challenges.
Call to Action:
“Get in scripture four or more days a week—it’s the road to greatness. Now, go be great!”
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Show Notes:
In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, Keith L. Callaway explores how political leadership affects—or doesn’t affect—personal and business success. Amid reflections on the role of presidents, taxes, and policies, Keith shares his perspective on taking personal responsibility, adapting to external changes, and ensuring a positive impact in business and family life.
Keith dives into how, despite recent economic downturns and challenging leadership, his business has grown, focusing on values, efficient operations, and strategic decisions. This episode also touches on the importance of prayer, perspective, and staying grounded in faith and values.
Key Points:
Impact of Political Leadership: Keith discusses whether or not the president's policies directly affect individual financial stability, business success, and personal well-being.Personal Responsibility Over Politics: Emphasizing that personal actions matter more than political outcomes, Keith highlights the importance of consistent effort and values-based leadership.Faith and Perspective: Keith shares how faith and a perspective of gratitude help him maintain a balanced outlook, even in difficult times.Encouragement to Viewers: Listeners are invited to reflect on their approach to external challenges, taking ownership of their success regardless of circumstances.Engagement Prompt: Keith encourages listeners to share their own stories on navigating challenges and reaching their goals despite political climates. -
Missing episodes?
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Show Notes:
In this thought-provoking episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," host Keith L. Callaway delves into the importance of voting and civic responsibility, especially for those of faith. Drawing from personal experiences and current issues, Keith discusses the significance of understanding deeper societal forces at play—like the metaphorical "enemy shaking the jar."
He shares insights on why it’s crucial to participate in elections, even when outcomes feel predetermined, and urges listeners to take responsibility and engage meaningfully in their communities.
Key points include:
Why voting remains vital despite doubts about impact.The metaphor of the red and black ants and its implications for societal division.How staying informed and involved strengthens not just communities but personal growth.The spiritual and civic importance of contributing to societal discussions and decision-making. Keith emphasizes, "The person shaking the jar is the enemy," urging listeners to redirect focus from internal disputes to broader influences shaping society. -
In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, host Keith L. Callaway explores foundational questions that drive purpose and personal growth. Reflecting on insights from King David's prayer and practical advice from a secular coaching framework, Keith shares actionable steps to help listeners clarify their own path to greatness.
Key Points & Takeaways:
King David's Legacy & Prayer: Keith begins by reading an impactful passage from 1 Chronicles 29:11-13, reminding us of the humility and purpose in David's leadership.Step One – Know What You Want: The journey starts with defining clear wants, distinguishing between daily to-dos and long-term dreams.Step Two – Understand Your Why: Keith underscores the power of purpose in sustaining motivation and building a legacy.Step Three – Clarify Your Purpose: Combining wants and whys helps uncover a purposeful direction that aligns with personal and spiritual values.Step Four – Create an Actionable Plan: Keith emphasizes setting measurable, purpose-driven goals to support sustainable growth, especially as he prepares for 2025 in work and personal life.Listeners will leave inspired to evaluate their goals, purpose, and the legacy they wish to build, aligning with Keith’s reminder that each step on the path to greatness is infused with intentionality and humility.
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In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, Keith L. Callaway delves into the "Science of Happiness" by exploring seven key principles designed to bring more joy, optimism, and connection into our lives. Keith shares personal experiences and insights that provide practical ways to nurture a mindset of success and fulfillment.
Key Points:
Alter Your Ego: Ego can hold you back from growth. Keith emphasizes the importance of humility and the realization that life and business will continue without us. Sometimes, our ego is the barrier to personal progress.Avoid Isolation: Drawing from his own experience with anxiety and depression, Keith reminds us that isolation is a common pitfall. Serving others and staying connected can help overcome negative thought patterns.Reject Negative Comparisons: Comparison is the thief of joy. Keith highlights how focusing on self-comparison can lead to frustration and discontent, and how shifting away from comparisons creates more space for happiness.Become More Optimistic: Optimism not only enhances mood but can also improve intelligence and success in business. Keith shares strategies for developing a more positive outlook.Control Your Attention: Social media and distractions can drain our mental energy. Keith urges listeners to refocus attention on uplifting content, such as reading the Bible or learning from inspiring figures like John Maxwell.Connect with Others: Relationships and community play a critical role in happiness. Inspired by Denmark, Keith discusses the value of small social groups and regular encouragement.Get Out of Your Own Head: Overthinking can lead to negativity and self-sabotage. Keith encourages us to stop justifying and blaming, and instead, embrace positive action.Resources Mentioned:
Influencers like Carl Bryan, Jordan Peterson, and John Maxwell. -
In this episode of Greatness from Small Beginnings, Keith L. Callaway shares a profound story of legacy, struggle, and redemption, drawing from the biblical narrative of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Keith reflects on how these patriarchs—though flawed—were redeemed by God’s grace and their lives were pivotal in fulfilling God's promises.
Key Points:
Abraham’s Promise and Struggles: Abraham’s dream of a great legacy was delayed, leading to personal and family conflict. His wife’s well-meaning interference created strife, but in the end, God’s promise prevailed.Isaac’s Role: Isaac, though loyal, repeated mistakes from his father's journey, particularly around deception, and these flaws were passed down through generations.Jacob’s Conflict: Jacob, favored over his brother Esau, deceived to gain his birthright, creating family conflict. This tension was eventually resolved through reconciliation.God’s Grace: Keith draws parallels between these biblical stories and our modern lives, emphasizing that even the most flawed individuals are redeemed through grace and mercy.Personal Reflection: Keith opens up about his own struggles with anxiety and doubt, reflecting on how God's grace continues to guide him through challenges, just as it did for the patriarchs.Call to Action: Listeners are invited to reflect on their need for grace and to embrace God’s free gift of redemption.Resources Mentioned: The Bible, focusing on the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; references to Galatians 5 (Fruits of the Spirit); and personal anecdotes.
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In this episode, Keith L. Callaway challenges a widely believed myth: “God helps those who help themselves.” While this phrase isn’t explicitly found in the Bible, Keith walks through various scriptures and biblical principles that show the value of personal responsibility, diligence, and faith in action. Key passages from Proverbs, James, and Galatians are highlighted to explore the relationship between faith and works.
Key Points:
Debunking the Myth: The phrase “God helps those who help themselves” isn’t directly in the Bible, but biblical principles like diligence, hard work, and faith in action reflect its spirit.Proverbs 10:4 & Proverbs 21:5: Keith discusses how these verses emphasize the importance of diligent work, contrasting laziness with wealth and prosperity, which extends beyond money.Faith and Action (James 2:17): Faith without works is dead—highlighting that genuine faith must be accompanied by action and personal responsibility.The Parable of the Talents: Keith dives into this parable to demonstrate how God expects us to use and multiply what we are given through responsible stewardship.Jose Hernandez Quote: "The harder I work, the luckier I get" — hard work leads to blessings, emphasizing the need to put effort into your endeavors.Takeaways:
Personal responsibility is deeply tied to biblical principles.God expects action alongside faith—true faith shows through works.Diligence and planning are key to success and financial stewardship.Wisdom and seeking guidance from God can lead to the right decisions, especially in challenging situations. -
In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, host Keith L. Callaway addresses the stress many face in their daily lives, especially during challenging seasons. Drawing on personal experiences and biblical wisdom, Keith shares practical advice for how to remain grounded in faith when life feels overwhelming.
Key Points:
Small Beginnings: Every journey begins somewhere, whether it’s the start of a day or a major life transition. Embrace your starting point as a foundation for future greatness.The Story of Faith: Keith reads an encouraging story that highlights the importance of trusting God’s unseen hand in our lives, especially when things don’t seem to be going as planned.Dealing with Anxiety: Anxiety and stress are unavoidable, but Keith reminds listeners that God is intentionally working in the background to align everything for their good.Monuments of Faith: Reflecting on the "monuments" God has placed in your life helps provide reassurance during tough times. Keith uses an analogy from construction to explain how looking back at God’s faithfulness in the past provides hope for the future.Finding Peace: True peace, according to Keith, is a miracle from God. It can only be achieved by intentionally placing yourself in positions that invite peace, whether that’s through prayer, solitude, or avoiding negativity.Practical Tips for Combatting Stress: Keith emphasizes the importance of reading scripture, leaning on faith, and changing your mindset to experience peace beyond human understanding.Einstein and New Thinking: Keith discusses Albert Einstein’s idea of not solving problems with the same mindset that created them and applies it to how we approach anxiety and worry.References & Resources:
Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 - "Do not be anxious about anything..."Books: John Maxwell's How Successful People Think -
In this solo episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, host Keith L. Callaway dives deep into the concept of perseverance. Drawing from his personal experiences and a powerful story about athlete Pat Manson, Keith explores how pushing through the toughest of times can lead to the most extraordinary accomplishments.
Key points discussed include:
Pat Manson’s story: Despite suffering a severe injury, Manson overcame adversity to win the national championship, exemplifying the power of perseverance.Facing the unknown: Keith reflects on how many of us face moments when the tunnel seems dark and collapsed, but through consistent effort and faith, we find the strength to take one more step.Practical advice: Keith encourages listeners to identify areas in their lives where perseverance is needed, take small but meaningful steps, and create a plan to overcome obstacles.Self-awareness and greatness: Keith emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, inspired by a challenge he saw on Instagram, and how it ties into achieving greatness by recognizing both strengths and areas for growth.Resources Mentioned:
Quotes by Zig Ziglar on motivation and greatness.Reflections from Keith on self-awareness and perseverance. -
In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, host Keith L. Callaway opens up about the challenges of navigating stressful seasons in both life and business. Keith shares personal stories from his construction and paving business, touching on moments of anxiety, difficult customer interactions, and the lessons learned from past hardships like dealing with shingles in his youth.
Key Points:
Handling Stress: Keith delves into how stress manifests in physical, emotional, and mental ways, sharing his personal experiences and strategies for managing it.Healthy Conflict: The importance of having healthy conflict within leadership teams and organizations, and how avoiding it can stifle growth and success.Turning Setbacks Into Opportunities: Keith shares a story about a friend whose company underwent significant staff turnover, but used the opportunity to reassess and rebuild in a stronger, more effective way.Finding Joy: Keith explores how to maintain joy during stressful times, and the role of faith and personal growth in cultivating peace and fulfillment.Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own challenges and view them as opportunities for growth, learning to choose joy, peace, and greatness amidst hardship. -
Show Notes:
In this episode of Greatness from Small Beginnings, Keith L. Callaway explores the profound impact of emotional storytelling through a biblical story involving King David and the prophet Nathan. The episode delves into how Nathan used a powerful parable to touch David’s heart, leading to deep reflection and repentance.
Key Points Covered:
The Story of Bathsheba and David: A retelling of the biblical account, emphasizing David's moral failure and Nathan’s masterful storytelling approach.Emotional vs. Rational Logic: Keith highlights how Nathan’s use of emotional storytelling was more impactful than logical arguments might have been.Are You That Person?: A challenge to listeners to reflect on their own lives—are we, like David, blind to our own faults until confronted with them emotionally?The Role of Wisdom in Hard Conversations: Insight into handling difficult conversations by engaging emotions, making messages more likely to resonate and lead to change.Key Takeaway: The importance of emotional engagement when trying to inspire change, both in yourself and others.References:
Biblical passage from 2 Samuel regarding David, Bathsheba, and Nathan.Quotes from Zig Ziglar on greatness and success. -
In this insightful episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," Keith L. Callaway explores the profound topic of spiritual transformation and the journey toward personal growth.
Reflecting on a sermon that deeply resonated with him, Keith discusses how true transformation is often a slow and steady process, driven by consistent effort and faith.
Key Points:
The struggle of balancing important tasks in a busy life.Reflections on a sermon and the writings of Christian author Mark Galli, who questions why deep transformation seems so elusive despite years of effort.The importance of consistent spiritual practices, such as daily scripture reading and prayer, in fostering personal growth.The role of faith in navigating inner darkness and the assurance that God is not in a hurry to transform us, but is always on time.Encouragement to actively participate in one's transformation through spiritual disciplines and resisting negative impulses.Scriptural references, including Philippians 1:6 and Luke 11:9-10, emphasizing persistence in seeking God's guidance and blessings.Closing thoughts on the journey of personal growth, acknowledging the long road ahead but encouraging listeners to stay committed.Resources Mentioned:
Philippians 1:6Luke 11:9-10Writings of Mark Galli -
In this powerful episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," Keith L. Callaway sits down with Dave Brown, a long-time employee and trusted friend at K&L. Their conversation delves into Dave's remarkable journey from a tumultuous past to finding purpose and redemption.
Key Points:
Dave's Early Life: Growing up in challenging environments in California and Chicago, moving to Nevada in 1979, and the impact of a strained family dynamic.Prison Time: Dave opens up about the choices that led to his imprisonment, spending over 25 years behind bars, and the pivotal moments that changed his outlook on life.Finding Purpose: The lessons learned during his time in prison, particularly the importance of values, self-discovery, and spirituality.Rebuilding Life: Dave's journey post-incarceration, including pursuing education, building a career, and becoming a loyal protector at K&L.Spiritual Insights: How spirituality and a sense of purpose guided Dave through his darkest times and continue to influence his life today.Final Message: Dave's heartfelt advice to listeners: "Don't be Dave—be the best version of yourself by learning from the mistakes of others." -
In this episode of Greatness From Small Beginnings, Keith L. Callaway dives deep into the art of shifting your perspective, especially when life feels overwhelming. Keith shares personal experiences of high-pressure days and explores how a simple change in mindset can transform stress into a manageable force.
Key Points:
Mindful Thoughts: The importance of taking short breaks to breathe, move, and connect with the present moment.Gratitude Practice: How reflecting on even the smallest blessings can shift your focus to the positive aspects of life.Setting Intentions: The power of starting your day with clear priorities, ensuring that your actions align with your goals.Real-Life Application: Keith's insights on balancing daily tasks and maintaining focus on revenue-generating activities.Encouragement: The episode wraps up with an empowering Zig Ziglar quote, reminding listeners of their inherent potential for greatness. -
Show Notes:
In this episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," Keith L. Callaway delves deep into the concept of purpose and its role in guiding us through life’s most challenging tasks. Reflecting on a recent conversation about The Purpose Driven Life, Keith explores how our purpose on earth is linked to greatness and how it often requires us to endure and excel in tasks we may not enjoy.
Key Points:
Purpose and Greatness: A reminder that we are all here to achieve greatness, often starting from humble beginnings and overcoming inherited challenges.The Role of Purpose in Work: Keith emphasizes that the purpose behind our work should focus on the people we impact and the long-term goals we are striving for, rather than just the tasks we perform.Perseverance in Difficult Tasks: Keith shares his personal experience with a task he dislikes, discussing how perseverance and a commitment to helping others can drive us to continue, even when the work is hard.The Importance of the "Who" and "Why": The episode concludes with the idea that while passion is ideal, understanding who you are working for and why can be even more motivating. -
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," Keith L. Callaway shares a compelling story about the flea experiment to illustrate how we often impose invisible limits on ourselves. Through personal anecdotes and motivational insights, Keith encourages listeners to recognize and overcome these self-imposed restrictions to achieve their full potential.
Key Points:
The Flea Experiment:Fleas can jump extraordinary heights.When placed in a jar with a lid, they learn to jump just below the lid.Even after the lid is removed, they continue to limit their jumps.Self-Imposed Limits:We often limit ourselves based on past experiences and negative feedback.These invisible lids prevent us from reaching our full potential.Personal Reflection:Keith shares his own struggles with anxiety and limitations at work.He emphasizes the importance of identifying and removing these limits.Spiritual Perspective:The significance of rejecting negative voices and embracing God’s purpose.The role of prayer and patience in overcoming life’s challenges.Call to Action:Listeners are encouraged to identify their own invisible lids.Practical steps to push beyond these limits and achieve greatness.Relevant Resources:
Zig Ziglar’s quote: "You were designed for accomplishment, engineered for success, and endowed with the seeds of greatness." -
In this episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," host Keith L. Callaway dives deep into eight transformative ideas that can propel you toward personal and professional greatness. Drawing from a curated list of insights from various influencers and thought leaders, Keith explores how our thoughts shape our reality, the power of setting audacious goals, and the importance of being generous with everything except your time. He also shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on staying uncomfortable to achieve success and the value of optimism and accumulated wisdom.
Key Points:
You Become What You Think About:Importance of writing and reviewing goals regularly.Stimulating thinking and sensory engagement.Your Inner World Creates Your Outer World:Role of emotional intelligence in shaping your life.Balancing comfort with growth-oriented thinking.The Value of Discipline:Benefits of engaging in activities that promote well-being, even when uncomfortable.Reflecting on life’s priorities and regrets.Setting Monster Goals:The science behind the effectiveness of ambitious goals.Personal experiences and the impact of goal setting on success.Generosity vs. Time Management:Being generous with resources while guarding your time.Anecdotes on balancing service with personal priorities.Wishing for Optimism:The impact of optimism on personal and familial outlooks.Strategies for modeling and fostering optimism.Accumulated Wealth:Differences between earned and accumulated wealth.The importance of long-term wisdom and financial investments.Choosing Your Battles:Recognizing when to let go of unproductive conflicts.The broader benefits of prioritizing peace and harmony.Resources and References:
Zig Ziglar's quote on greatness.Personal stories and insights from Keith’s life and experiences.Relevant scriptures and wisdom from long-term study and application.Call to Action: Reflect on your own goals and dreams. Set ambitious targets and take practical steps toward achieving them. Embrace discomfort, protect your time, and cultivate an optimistic mindset. Remember, greatness is a choice, make it yours.
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In this solo episode, host Keith L. Callaway dives into the multi-faceted concept of greatness, sharing personal stories and insights on how small beginnings can lead to significant impact. Joined by his son, Paul Callaway, they discuss the importance of defining greatness, embracing suffering, and instilling values of hard work and resilience in the next generation.
Key Points:
Introduction of Paul Callaway: Keith introduces his son, Paul, and discusses their entrepreneurial spirits and shared business ventures.Defining Greatness: Exploring the idea that greatness is fulfilling one's greatest potential and walking the path that God has set.Small Beginnings: Reflecting on the Callaway family's modest beginnings and how their journey has shaped their current success.Layers of Protection: Discussing the multiple layers of support that insulate their family from suffering and how this contrasts with many people's experiences.Suffering and Sacrifice: The importance of choosing to embrace discomfort and suffering to grow and relate to the suffering of Christ.Teaching Children Resilience: Strategies for teaching children the value of hard work, discipline, and the ability to thrive in less comfortable environments.Practical Wisdom: Practical advice on building a mindset of greatness through consistent effort, such as the idea of practicing something for 18 minutes a day to achieve proficiency.The Long Game: Emphasizing that greatness is a long-term journey that involves building deep connections and instilling lasting values in children.Resources Mentioned:
Zig Ziglar's quote: "You were designed for accomplishment, engineered for success, and endowed with the seeds of greatness."Personal anecdotes and stories from the Callaway family. -
Episode Overview: In this episode of "Greatness From Small Beginnings," Keith L. Callaway explores the concept of true freedom, reflecting on Independence Day and the broader meaning of liberty. Using scriptural references and personal anecdotes, Keith delves into the contrast between living out our pleasures and understanding the deeper, more profound sense of freedom envisioned by our founders and in the scriptures.
Key Points:
Reflection on Independence Day: Keith shares observations from the week of July 4th, drawing parallels between historical and personal insights.Scriptural Insights: Key passages from Ecclesiastes 3 and Ephesians 5 are discussed, emphasizing the balance and wisdom required to live a life of true freedom.Personal Anecdotes: A story about a poem handed to Keith at a restaurant serves as a catalyst for discussing the deeper meanings of freedom and liberty.Historical Context: The episode revisits the founding fathers' vision of freedom and how it aligns with biblical principles.Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to seek true freedom through Christ and to embrace their designed potential for greatness.Resources and References:
Ecclesiastes 3: A time for everything.Ephesians 5:15-20: Living wisely and making the most of every opportunity.Poem: "Let Freedom Rain" by DJ Johnson.Quotes from Zig Ziglar: Emphasizing the potential for greatness. -
In this solo episode, Keith L. Callaway explores the theme of independence, providing listeners with ten practical and often surprising ways to embrace and enhance their independence. As we approach Independence Day, Keith reflects on personal routines, values, and lifelong learning, sharing insights that are both actionable and inspiring.
Key Points:
Keep Your Room Clean: The importance of a tidy space in creating momentum and purpose.Learn an In-Demand Skill: Continual learning as a pathway to independence and career growth.Always Be Prepared: The Boy Scout motto applied to life and business.Know Yourself: Understanding your purpose and values to live a fulfilling life.Stand Up for Your Values: The necessity of identifying and defending your core values.Give Your Work Your All: The link between hard work and future independence.Own Your Mistakes: The rare but crucial skill of acknowledging and learning from errors.Embrace Responsibility: Taking full responsibility for all aspects of your life.Embrace Curiosity: Cultivating curiosity to drive personal and professional growth.Always Be Learning: The critical role of lifelong learning in staying vital and engaged.Resources Mentioned:
Admiral McRaven's Commencement SpeechDave Ramsey's Financial AdviceZig Ziglar's QuotesCall to Action: Reflect on these ten principles and identify one area to focus on in the coming week. Embrace the journey towards greater independence and share your progress with us on social media using #GreatnessFromSmallBeginnings.
Go be great!
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