Problem-solving
The “Just Because You’re Black” Question
“Some things can only be learned from experience.” Great titles are a competitive advantage for writers and authors. Some would say that my title, “The ‘Just Because You’re Black’ Question,” is great but might be provocative. This could even be considered causing trouble, but much like the late, great John Lewis, I cause ‘Good…
Read MoreCritical Thinking: How to Stay Engaged
Thinking Critically Through the Noise. That’s what it’s really about. With distractions all around us, sometimes it may be difficult to find the peace and quiet to think. So, how do you sift through all the noise to think critically? In this short audiogram, I share four thoughts passed down from father to son on how to…
Read MoreAuthor Ego: The Scammers’ Best Tool
“Compliments can get you the world.” Dr. Burl Randolph, Jr. Everyone likes to receive compliments. Compliments humble some people, while they create hubris in others. Authors refer to compliments as book reviews. Whether formal or informal, any positive feedback on their work is received with gratitude for the platitudes. Surely, there must be more…
Read MoreReducing the Fog of War
“Limited experience and education can lead to limited expertise.” I believe the current Secretary of Defense used a phrase last week that requires clarification. The comment was, “The thing was on fire. It was exploded in fire and smoke. You can’t see it,” he said, adding: “This is called the fog of war.” The last…
Read MoreOh, SNAP! Meet the Challenge
Many people are currently struggling without support from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP. The goal is to ensure that our government workers and others impacted by the Government Shutdown do not go hungry. It will take all of us to meet this challenge. Iowa’s Initiative On Thursday, October 30, 2025, “Governor…
Read MoreWorking for Free is Not Free
Free Labor is Still Labor Look closely at the image, as you are one of the only two people in an office. Now, place a uniform on the two people in the picture — what do you have? U.S. Service Members all over the world are protecting America’s freedom without receiving the pay necessary to…
Read MoreHow to Wrestle with a Pig, and Win! Problem-Solving Made Easier.
How to Wrestle with a Pig, and Win! A Guide to Complex Problem-solving I am often asked, “Burl, why would you wrestle with a pig? All you get is dirty and the pig enjoys it.” (George Bernard Shaw.) My answer is always the same: “How do you think I made Colonel?“ Wrestling with a pig…
Read MoreIt’s Here! ¿Puede Dios Confiarte con Problemas?
¿Puede Dios Confiarte con Problemas? Can God Trust You with Trouble? I am proud to announce the release of Can God Trust You with Trouble?, Spanish edition. This was a long time coming from inception to publication. Comparing the English and Spanish versions to ensure the text flowed smoothly, the correct words were used, and…
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