You Must Learn to Reinvent Yourself - Glenn Jacobs on His Journey from Kane to Politics

Join me as I welcome Glenn Jacobs, the Mayor of Knox County and former WWE superstar known as Kane, to the One Big Thing Podcast! We embark on a compelling conversation through his remarkable journey from the wrestling ring to public office.

Our conversation navigates the surreal experience of transitioning from a character that captivated millions to a leader tasked with making tangible changes in his community. Jacobs reflects on his early struggles in professional wrestling, where he often felt out of place, and how those experiences shaped his resilience. He emphasizes the importance of failure as a stepping stone to success, a theme that resonates throughout the episode as he shares personal anecdotes about his career and the lessons learned along the way.

As the conversation unfolds, you'll gain insight into Jacobs' motivations for entering politics. He describes a deep-seated desire to give back to a country that provided him with abundant opportunities, and he expresses concern for future generations. With two grandchildren, Jacobs is driven by a commitment to ensure they grow up in a society where they can thrive. This heartfelt commitment to public service is further explored as he discusses the challenges and rewards of being a politician, including the weighty responsibility of representing his constituents and the necessity of having tough conversations with those who may not share his views.

The episode beautifully intertwines themes of identity, purpose, and the human experience, showcasing how Jacobs navigated his dual roles authentically. He encourages listeners to embrace their own journeys, reminding them that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Jacobs' candid reflections on his experiences as both a performer and a politician offer a unique perspective on leadership, making this an inspiring listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of public service and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.

Highlights

• Jacobs reflects on how failures in his life ultimately paved the way for his successes, emphasizing perseverance.
• He shares how we all need to reinvent ourselves at times, using examples from both his wrestling and political career
• Both politics and entertainment require authenticity; leaders must remain true to their core values.
• Engaging in community advocacy can create significant change beyond just casting a vote.
• Jacobs stresses the need for open dialogue across political divides to foster understanding and collaboration.
• Prioritizing family time amidst busy careers is crucial for maintaining personal well-being and happiness.

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About Mayor Jacobs

Glenn Jacobs is currently serving his second term as Mayor of Knox County, TN. Prior to becoming Mayor in 2018, Jacobs enjoyed a successful career in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)—most notably under the stage name “Kane”—culminating in his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2020. A staunch fiscal conservative and fierce advocate for limited government, during his first term, Jacobs delivered on his campaign promise of no tax hikes and pushed back against government overreach during the COVID-19 pandemic. In his second term, he is prioritizing workforce and economic development to make East Tennessee even more competitive in a rapidly evolving innovation-based global economy. Glenn and his wife, Crystal, have two daughters and two grandchildren

Follow Glenn on His Socials

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glennjacobstn

X - https://x.com/GlennJacobsTN

Kane on X - https://x.com/Kan