- The Consequential Chronicles Newsletter
- Posts
- The Consequential Chronicles #7
⚔️Welcome to the 7th edition of the Consequential Chronicles, where we delve into the lives and insights of Men of Consequence. This edition features Frank Serpico, highlighting his exemplary integrity and courage, benefits of daily devotionals, practical tips for parents to foster open communication with their teenage children, importance of proper footwear for squats to prevent knee and back pain, and lastly…how business consultants and coaches can support your business growth. Join us as we uncover valuable lessons and strategies from Men of Consequence to inspire and empower your own life and leadership journey.
Within this week’s edition you'll find:
Men of Consequence-Present: Frank Serpico
Lead By Faith: 3 Reasons Why You Should Have a Daily Devotional
Lead Your Family: Getting Your Teens to Open Up
Own Your Health: Be Caught Flat Footed…Squats
Lead Your Business: How Business Consultants and Coaches Can Help You Scale
But before we get started, please help spread the love by sharing The Consequential Chronicles Newsletter with other like-minded men you know and asking them to subscribe!
Let’s get into it!
Alex Mont-Ros
Editor-in-Chief, The Consequential Chronicles Newsletter
Men of Consequence - Present
Frank Serpico 1936-Present
Frank Serpico is a former New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer who became famous for blowing the whistle on corruption within the police force in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His actions exposed widespread corruption and led to significant reforms in the NYPD. Here are some key highlights of his life and accomplishments. Serpico's actions inspired the 1973 film "Serpico," starring Al Pacino, which brought his story to a wider audience. He is often cited as a symbol of integrity and courage in the face of systemic corruption.
Early Life and Career: Frank Serpico was born on April 14, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York. He joined the NYPD in 1959 and quickly gained a reputation for being an honest and hardworking officer.
Early Influences: Serpico's sense of justice and integrity was influenced by his upbringing and his father, who was an Italian immigrant and a strict disciplinarian.
Exposing Corruption: Throughout his career, Serpico encountered numerous instances of corruption, including bribery, police brutality, and illegal activities. He began collecting evidence and reporting these incidents to his superiors, but his complaints were often ignored.
Testimony and Impact: In 1970, Serpico's efforts to fight corruption gained significant attention when he testified before the Knapp Commission, a government inquiry into police corruption in New York City. His testimony was instrumental in exposing the extent of corruption within the NYPD and led to reforms and changes in the department's practices.
Shooting and Aftermath: In 1971, Serpico was shot in the face during a drug bust, under suspicious circumstances that some believe were a setup by corrupt officers. He survived the shooting but sustained serious injuries. The incident further highlighted the dangers he faced in his fight against corruption.
Undercover Work: Serpico spent a significant part of his police career working undercover, which allowed him to observe and document corruption firsthand. His unconventional appearance and methods often set him apart from his fellow officers.
Recognition and Awards: Despite the challenges he faced, Serpico received several awards for his bravery and service, including the NYPD Medal of Honor, which is the department's highest award for valor.
Advocacy for Police Reform: After his retirement, Serpico continued to advocate for police reform and accountability. He has been a vocal supporter of measures to improve transparency and reduce corruption in law enforcement.
Later Life: After retiring from the NYPD in 1972, Serpico lived in Europe for several years before returning to the United States. He has continued to speak out on issues of police corruption and accountability.
Frank Serpico's life and accomplishments exemplify the qualities of a man of consequence, as he stood up for what was right despite facing immense personal and professional risks. His legacy continues to inspire those who seek to challenge corruption and uphold integrity in law enforcement and other areas of public life.
Lead By Faith
Daily devotionals can be a powerful tool for leading by faith as a man of consequence. Here are three reasons why:
Spiritual Growth: Daily devotionals provide a consistent opportunity to deepen your relationship with God. They offer a dedicated time to study scripture, reflect on its meaning, and pray, which can lead to spiritual growth and a stronger faith foundation.
Guidance and Wisdom: In the busyness of life, it's easy to lose sight of our values and priorities. Daily devotionals help us stay grounded in our faith and seek God's guidance in our decision-making. They can provide insights and wisdom that help us navigate challenges with a sense of purpose and direction.
Inspiration and Encouragement: Leading by faith often requires courage and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity. Daily devotionals can be a source of inspiration and encouragement, reminding us of God's promises and his presence in our lives. They can uplift our spirits and renew our strength for the journey ahead.\
My favorite devotional thus far is New Morning Mercies by Paul Tripp. What’s yours?
Lead Your Family
Engaging teenage children can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can create a more open and communicative relationship. Here are three tips to better engage your teenage children:
Create a Safe and Non-Judgmental Environment: Teenagers are more likely to open up when they feel safe and supported. Create a non-judgmental environment where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism. Listen actively, validate their emotions, and avoid jumping to conclusions or giving unsolicited advice.
Show Genuine Interest in Their Lives: Take an interest in your teenage children's interests, hobbies, and activities. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share their experiences and perspectives. Show genuine curiosity and respect for their opinions, even if you disagree. By showing interest in their lives, you demonstrate that you value their thoughts and feelings, which can encourage them to open up more.
Lead by Example: As a parent, you are a role model for your children. Lead by example by demonstrating good communication skills and healthy emotional expression. Show empathy, respect, and patience in your interactions with others, including your spouse, friends, and other family members. Your actions speak louder than words, and by modeling positive behavior, you can encourage your teenage children to do the same.
By creating a strong foundation of open communication and engagement with your teenage children, you are not only building a closer relationship with them but also equipping them with valuable life skills. As men of consequence, this approach enables you to lead your families with compassion, understanding, and respect. By fostering a supportive and communicative environment at home, you are preparing your teenage children to become confident, empathetic, and responsible individuals who will positively impact their communities and the world around them.
Own Your Health
Be Caught Flat Footed…Squats.
Choosing to do squats barefoot or with flat-soled shoes can be a wise decision to protect your knees and back from potential injuries. It's crucial to prioritize the health of your lower body, especially during exercises like squats, to prevent unnecessary strain and discomfort.
The primary reason why opting for barefoot or flat-soled shoes is beneficial is that they promote better stability and alignment. When you squat, having a stable base is essential to ensure that your knees and back are not subjected to excessive pressure or strain. Flat soles or bare feet allow your feet to make better contact with the ground, which can help you maintain proper form throughout the exercise.
Furthermore, shoes with thick, cushioned soles can actually be detrimental during squats. They can create an unstable surface, making it more challenging to maintain balance and proper alignment. This instability can increase the risk of injuries to your knees, hips, and back, as your body tries to compensate for the lack of stability.
By choosing to do squats barefoot or with flat-soled shoes, you are providing your body with a more natural and stable foundation. This can help reduce the risk of injuries and discomfort in your knees and back, allowing you to focus on building strength and muscle effectively. So, the next time you hit the gym for a squat session, consider ditching the thick-soled shoes for a more stable and safe workout experience.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is for general purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Lead Your Business
How Business Consultants and Coaches Can Help You Scale
When it comes to growing your business, both a consultant and a business coach can play valuable roles, each bringing unique benefits to the table.
Consultant:
Expertise and Solutions: Consultants are hired for their specialized knowledge and experience in a particular area. They provide concrete solutions and strategies to help you overcome specific challenges or achieve specific goals.
Short-term Focus: Consultants typically work on specific projects or issues for a defined period. They are focused on delivering results within a set timeframe.
Business Coach:
Personal Development: Business coaches focus on personal and professional development, helping you enhance your skills, mindset, leadership abilities and most importantly…accountability towards achieving your business objectives and goals.
Long-term Growth: Coaches work with you over a longer period to help you set and achieve long-term goals, build sustainable business practices, and develop as a leader.
Why Consider Both:
Comprehensive Support: While consultants provide expertise in specific areas, coaches offer ongoing support and development. Together, they can provide a comprehensive approach to growing your business.
Balance of Strategy and Execution: Consultants focus on strategy and solutions, while coaches help you implement these strategies effectively by developing your skills and mindset.
Holistic Growth: By combining the expertise of a consultant with the personal development offered by a coach, you can achieve holistic growth that not only improves your business but also enhances your overall leadership capabilities.
In summary, consultants and business coaches offer unique skills and perspectives that can enhance your business growth journey. By leveraging both, you can benefit from a holistic approach that addresses strategic needs and personal development as a leader. If you're seeking guidance in either area, The Step Up Method can assist you. With a track record of helping numerous businesses achieve $7+ figures and successfully navigating acquisitions and exits, we're well-equipped to support your growth aspirations.
Alex Mont-Ros, Consultant and Business Coach
Co-Founder of The Step Up Method
