In this book, Angela Duckworth presents a compelling argument that success is driven more by grit, a fusion of relentless passion and perseverance, than by talent. She explains what grit is, how to identify and develop it, and how it can be grown through stages such as developing interests, consistent practice, finding a pro-social purpose, and cultivating optimism. The book is structured in three parts: explaining what grit is and why it matters, how to grow grit from the inside out, and how to grow grit from the outside in, targeting parents, coaches, teachers, and organizational leaders. Duckworth supports her arguments with personal stories, historical insights, and interviews with high achievers from various fields.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Tom Deierlein, a West Point graduate, serial entrepreneur, Wounded Warrior, and Angel Investor. Deierlein shares his extraordinary journey from being an Airborne Ranger and Bronze Star recipient to becoming the CEO of Thundercat Technology. He recounts his return to active duty at age 38, being critically wounded in Iraq, and his inspiring recovery at Walter Reed. Focused on the theme of grit, Deierlein discusses the importance of persistence, resilience, and long-term goals in overcoming obstacles, using examples from his life and referencing Angela Duckworth's studies on grit. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of character and determination needed to achieve greatness despite adversity.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Connect and learn more about Tom Deierlein:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomdeierlein/
Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0
HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT
[00:03:53] Tom's Early Career and Sales Background
[00:05:59] Transition to PTC and the Dot-Com Era
[00:10:22] The Call Back to Military Service
[00:16:15] Deployment and Civil Affairs in Iraq
[00:20:33] The Sniper Attack and Aftermath
[00:30:09] The Body's Healing Process
[00:30:35] The Challenge of Standing Up
[00:31:46] Facing Dark Days
[00:32:01] Defining Grit
[00:33:29] The Power of Persistence
[00:37:12] Rehabilitation Journey
[00:38:45] Discovering Grit
[00:42:17] Early Examples of Grit
[00:45:05] Ranger School Challenges
[00:48:21] Teaching Grit
[00:58:15] The Stockwell Paradox
HIGHLIGHT QUOTES
[00:53:17] "Excellence is not an act, but a habit."
[00:53:46] "Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
[00:59:58] "Confront the facts, have the discipline to acknowledge the harsh realities of your current situation, but maintain faith. Have an unwavering faith that you will prevail no matter how long it takes."
Revenue Builders 
