The Quarterback DadCast Casey Jacox

Today's episode happens thanks to the power of curiosity, networking, and LinkedIn.  We welcome the talented John Ruffini to the show to tell his amazing story of adopting his three children from Chile.  Not only is John a very talented author, but he is also a co-host of a podcast and the Vice President of Professional Development at HealthTrust Workforce Solutions.  We even talked about some high school basketball as I learned that John used to be a referee while still finding time to cheer on his Maryland Terrapins!

Embarking on an adoption journey can be one of the most amazing yet challenging journies- one that John Ruffini and his family know all too well.   In our conversation, we share a discussion that traverses the emotional terrain of adopting three siblings from South America, a testament to the resilience and love inherent in building a family through unconventional means. John's candid reflections on the hurdles and high points, including the arduous three-year process of bringing his third child home, offer a beacon of hope for those considering a similar path.

John's narrative is more than just an adoption story; it's a journey of personal transformation and the forging of an unbreakable family bond. As he recounts in his amazing book, "A Quest for Alex," the adoption of his children wasn't simply about expanding his family—it was an expedition that demanded perseverance in the face of legal complexities and a celebration of cultural ties. Listeners will find solace and inspiration in John's accounts, from navigating language barriers to fostering a deep sense of identity within his children, emphasizing that the love and lessons learned in parenthood are indeed universal.

As we wrap up, the conversation shifts from the intricacies of adoption to the broader scope of parenting. The episode shines light on the diverse experiences and individual paths our children may take, a humbling reminder of the patience and understanding required to support each of their unique journeys. Whether you're a father, contemplating adoption, or simply drawn to heartening tales of family and endurance, this episode resonates with messages of solidarity and encouragement. 

Join us as we share laughs, impart wisdom, and celebrate the enriching experience of fatherhood in all its forms,
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Our next guest has a fantastic story and someone whom I'm grateful to have met during our time at The TechServce Executive Conference in November.  With a B.B.A., Eric began his career as a financial advisor in 2009. His experience as a general manager of a family-owned pulp and paper company prompted him to found his own firm in 2012. Since then, this passionate visionary has surrounded himself with strategic business partners allowing him to build a specialized service offer for independent consultants. 

Embarking on a journey of fatherhood is akin to navigating uncharted waters; it's a path filled with profound love, unexpected challenges, and invaluable lessons.  Today, we are joined by Canadian entrepreneur Eric Chevrette, who opens up about the intricacies of raising a daughter with a zest for music and psychology. Eric's candid reflections on supporting her unique path offer a window into a world where fatherly love meets the courage to let children soar with their passions. We celebrate the simple pleasures, like a mutual love for food, and tackle the complexities of parenting post-divorce, understanding how distance can both test and fortify the sacred bond between parent and child.

Eric will share how his drive and grit were shaped by entrepreneurial and educational influences and provide a backdrop to discussions of life's unexpected turns. This episode peels back layers of personal growth, from the nostalgia of delivering lambs to the strategic shifts required in business. Such reflections encapsulate the spirit of perseverance and humility, qualities that have been my compass across varied chapters of life.

Last but not least, we explore the relentless drive that fuels generational entrepreneurial success and how it manifests in the expansion of a financial services business beyond borders. The anecdotes shared illustrate how our guest has embraced his father's legacy.  Our stories weave a common thread—whether it's sports announcing dreams coming to fruition or a daughter's mature independence reshaping family dynamics—underscoring the timeless impact of parental influence and the enduring pursuit of legacies left behind.

To connect with Eric, you can email him at e.chevrette@financesti360.com
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Today's episode only happens, thanks to the one and only Dale Favors.  As you might recall, Dale joined me in Season 2 for a very powerful episode.  Today's guest is David Cummings, the esteemed Senior Director of race and culture at CBS Sports, who joins us for a heartfelt journey through life's game-changing plays.

As we unfold stories of gratitude and shared wisdom, David's reflections on the vitality of his father and the lasting impact of parental guidance resonate deeply. Our dialogue takes a nostalgic turn, celebrating pivotal moments in both personal and professional realms, from the vibrant streets of Montclair, New Jersey, to the electrifying world of sports journalism.

Navigating the delicate balance between career ambitions and family has never been easy. David would vulnerably share about his transition from a sports writer caught up in the intensity of NBA playoffs to an editor crafting a career that could embrace family life.  He would highlight moments that shaped him, like the infamous Knicks-Heat series and the legendary Secretariat's races, anchoring our discussion in the rich experiences that define us. For listeners juggling parenting, marriage, and professional dreams, find camaraderie and inspiration in this episode's tales of adaptability and the pursuit of being the guiding force within our families.

As our conversation weaves into the themes of diversity in sports journalism and media, David offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the journey that led him to CBS.  We discussed the work that John Feinstein has done to help with diversity as a writer, in his great book, "Raise a Fist, Take a Knee", which we highlighted in Season 4 of the podcast.  We tackle the transition to empty nesting, sharing insights on nurturing marital life in a quieter home and the joys of welcoming their new dog, too! 

Let this episode be your playbook for those looking to foster empathy and connection as pillars of parenting and leadership. Join us for an enriching exchange that underscores our unwavering commitment to family, our children's futures, and the stories that knit us together.
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Have you ever wondered how the challenges and rewards of fatherhood can intertwine with the thrills of coaching basketball? 

Mo Hines, a seasoned AAU basketball coach and former assistant at Washington State University, graces our show with stories that blend the hardwood intensity with the heartwarming parenting moments. As we navigate through Mo's experiences, we find ourselves immersed in a world where the support of a loving spouse is the cornerstone of raising children and where recognizing and nurturing each child's unique journey becomes a father's paramount task.

As I learned more about Mo, he would share tales that traverse our personal and professional lives, revealing how a childhood in Baltimore and a pivotal move to Seattle has shaped the trajectory of his path. Mo offers insights into the intricate dance of family dynamics, the joy of watching his kids grow up, and the profound impact of learning about parenting from so many kids he has coached. 

Our conversation goes beyond basketball as we touch on the delicate balance of instilling discipline while fostering emotional intelligence in the next generation.  Mo also vulnerably shares his personal relationship with the late Kobe Bryant, who has left an indelible mark on him and the world.

Wrapping up the episode, Mo and I step back to appreciate the broader lessons of diversity, leadership, and the pursuit of personal growth. Listeners are invited to ponder how empathy and curiosity can power the engine of problem-solving in both coaching and parenting. With Mo's heartfelt anecdotes and my reflections, we close the chapter on this episode with a laugh, a nod to the collective wisdom of all the remarkable fathers and mothers out there, and an affirmation of our shared commitment to becoming better versions of ourselves for the sake of our children and the communities we influence.
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Thanks to my friends at The TechServe Alliance, I met our next guest at their annual executive conference.

Navigating the field of fatherhood can feel like quarterbacking without a playbook, but Jeb Corley, an Air Force veteran and Vice President at Medix, joins us to share the playbook he’s writing every day as a dad. With season five's kickoff, we traverse the landscape of parenting, from the precious moments with young ones to the hard-earned lessons of personal growth. Jeb's stories of gratitude and the challenges he faces as a father resonate with the familiar warmth and complexity of a game well-played, where every down is a chance for triumph or learning.  Through laughter and earnest discourse, Jeb and I peel back the layers of what it means to be a dad, a husband, and an individual in a world that's constantly rewriting the rules.

Jeb's story is one of resilience, as he vulnerably shares his story of his mom's battle with cancer as a young child, where she would later pass away.  Not only was the portion of his life challenging, but he and his siblings would later be adopted by a foster family.  As I listened to Jeb, I was increasingly impressed by the mindset he now shares with his kids.   

Wrapping up, we lean into the wisdom of curiosity and the art of forgiveness as essential tools in the parental toolbox. Through stories of reconnection and the pursuit of understanding, we underscore the profound influence these qualities have on our relationships and the lessons we pass down to our children. Jeb's journey and our candid conversations carve out strategies for resilience, presence, and empathy, aiming to equip any dad with the inspiration and insight for crafting their own legacy.
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Joining me is Jason De Lucca, not just a titan of sales and a former Chapman University soccer player but a man who epitomizes the true spirit of fatherhood and leadership.   Jason is a dynamic sales executive and proven people leader who consistently surpasses goals and delivers value-added, innovative solutions that enable clients to achieve their most ambitious business goals.   

Today, he is the SVP of Strategy and Enterprise Solutions for Dexian.  He is a consultative partner and a trusted advisor who continues to mentor others by sharing his wisdom.  He is passionate about developing high-performing teams, instilling a culture of accountability, and promoting creative problem-solving in complex and rapidly evolving environments.  What I loved most about Jason is our shared passion for being curious, and how being curious can solve so many problems we face in life.

During our episode, we are not just talking shop here; we're peeling back the suit and tie to explore the heartbeat of his life. With the launch of his podcast with Paul DiVincenzo, 'The Authentic Edge,' on the horizon, Jason offers an intimate perspective on living a life of sincerity, whether you're closing a deal or tucking your kids into bed. Prepare to be inspired by the boomerang mindset where what you send out into the world has a way of returning, often when you least expect it.

We celebrate the lessons learned from the parenting playbook handed down by his folks, Mike and Cindy De Lucca, and we revel in the victories and adventures of his daughters, Taylor and Gabriella. Listen and find comfort in the shared experiences of life's unpredictable journey, from the serendipity of finding love to the heartache and humor in the face of loss.

As we wrap up, we wade through the complexities of balancing the demands of leadership at home and at the office. We tackle the gritty reality of parenting, the gift of belief, and the power of a pause when life hands us more questions than answers.   I hope you enjoy learning more about Jason and the amazing example he has set for all of us dads!
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