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The Power of Presence: My Conversation on Off the Comma

October 15, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

Recently, I had the privilege of joining Paul Briley on the “Off the Comma” podcast, a conversation that left me energized, reflective, and deeply grateful for the professional path I walk. We didn’t just discuss leadership or communication; we went straight to the core of what it means to grow, to lead, and to stay true to yourself when the stakes are high and the pressure is on.

Throughout the interview, I shared pivotal moments from my journey, like the time I stood backstage at the Grand Ole Opry, heart racing, facing a panic attack moments before performing. In those raw, private seconds, I learned the power of presence. Through intentional breathing, I calmed my heart, anchored my mind, and reminded myself: fear is part of the process.

I’ve learned that sometimes, the smartest move is not to silence fear but to ask it, “What can you teach me?” That curiosity became my greatest ally, helping me not only on stage but in the boardroom, too.

A Life in Harmony

We explored the art of reflection. How often do we rush from one challenge to the next, never pausing to ask what went well or what could be better? I emphasized that real growth begins when you learn to reflect thoughtfully—celebrating wins and bravely confronting moments you felt stuck. Through this lens, even setbacks become lessons.

Negative self-talk, that persistent inner critic, was another focus. I talked about the discipline it takes to catch yourself mid-thought and redirect the narrative. Imagine what’s possible when you replace self-doubt with honest self-assessment: a crucial skill for anyone leading a team, raising a family, or forging their own path.

Living in harmony with your values was another major throughline. For me, integrity stands above all else. It’s realizing the true test is what you do when no one is watching. Harmony isn’t just about doing the right thing when it’s easy; it’s choosing to align your actions with your deepest beliefs, even if it means embracing discomfort or taking the road less traveled. That’s the foundation on which enduring careers, meaningful relationships, and lasting reputations are built.

An Impactful Presence

Another deeply personal revelation we discussed was untangling codependency—a lesson learned from early family dynamics, wanting to keep the peace, and putting others first at the expense of self. The line is thin between supporting others and stifling their growth or losing sight of your own. High-performing professionals, parents, and leaders: your presence is more impactful when it’s not tied to people-pleasing, but to genuine connection.

I told Paul that I’m just a kid from a small town in Montana who wanted to be a rock star. Along the way, I hit more bumps than I care to count. But each time I stumbled, I remembered to be patient, to breathe, and to let the tough moments teach me something new. That’s the essence of “getting off the comma”—it may be hard work, but it’s the only way to move forward.

Watch/Listen to the Full Episode

There’s much more to discover in our full conversation: practical strategies, honest anecdotes, and insights you can bring to your own leadership and self-care journey.

If you’re ready to challenge yourself, learn from fear, and lead with integrity, I encourage you to listen to the full episode.

Listen to the full interview on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Watch the conversation on YouTube.

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and other relevant topics.

Service Mentality: 6 Ways Giving Back Strengthens Leaders

October 1, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

As Emotional Wellness Month begins, I believe service is one of the most overlooked but powerful ways to strengthen mental well-being and emotional balance, especially for those in leadership roles.

Service is the clearest expression of our best selves. When leaders serve others, it keeps them grounded, emotionally regulated, and focused on what truly matters.

Giving back is more than an act of kindness; it’s a vital leadership mindset. My long-standing commitment to service reinforces the idea that emotional strength is built through outward compassion.

Philanthropy and purpose-driven work don’t just help others; they anchor us. When we look beyond ourselves, we become more balanced, more robust, and more in tune with what truly matters.

In that spirit, here are six powerful ways that simple acts of service, such as volunteering or offering support, can transform our thinking.

6 Ways Service Strengthens Mental Resilience

1. It disrupts negative thinking.

Helping someone else short-circuits our inner critic and re-centers us in purpose.

2. It restores clarity and perspective.

Service helps us remember we’re part of something bigger. It shrinks stress and builds stronger empathy.

3. It energizes the giver.

A lifelong musician, I liken generosity to music. The more you give, the more alive you feel. Giving is like harmony in song—you feel it resonate.

4. It rewires and reshapes emotional patterns.

Service strengthens our neural pathways for gratitude, empathy, and courage. It becomes easier to stay calm in difficult moments.

5. It grounds and reaffirms your identity.

In giving, we remember who we really are. Not our title, not our task list, but our values.

6. It strengthens bonds and fosters connections.

I’ve seen that teams who serve together are stronger together. Mental health isn’t just individual—it’s relational.

Unwavering Service & Loyalty

In All the Right Reasons, I recount personal moments where service to others had a lasting emotional impact.

After years as a trusted bookkeeper for Superior Buildings Lumber Co., my father was gifted a share of the business by its owner, Mr. Crum. When Crum grew older and moved into a nursing home, my father visited him every other day—shaving him, caring for him, and offering steadfast companionship.

My father became like an adopted son to the Crum family because of his unwavering service and loyalty. Dad’s example was a powerful reminder that the most enduring legacies are built through simple, consistent acts of care—not for recognition but out of love and devotion.

Such examples throughout All the Right Reasons illustrate my core belief that the virtue of service is resilience training that strengthens leaders.

To me, wellness is more than nutrition—it’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual. And nothing nourishes all four quite like service.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on Oct. 1, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of self-improvement. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com. 

Are You Ready for Your Big Break?

September 15, 2025/0 Comments/in Blog/by Kevin Guest

September is National Preparedness Month, a time when we often think about emergency kits and evacuation plans. While that’s incredibly important, I believe true preparedness extends far beyond that. It’s a mindset and a way of living that gets you ready for the opportunities life will inevitably send your way.

A lifelong friend of mine once told me his secret. He said he owes much of his success to one simple habit: he always tries to think two steps ahead. He’s not a worrier; he’s a preparer. This mindset allows him to anticipate needs, solve problems before they arise, and position himself to say “yes” when a great chance appears.

This resonated with me because I’ve always believed that you can’t depend on luck. You have to be ready for it. It’s a philosophy I call the Hope Diamond Principle: Good things come to those who are prepared. I write all about it in All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, but here’s one story about the value of being prepared.

I actually learned this lesson firsthand years ago. As a video producer, I had a dream of working with the Smithsonian Institution. I sent letters, made phone calls, and pitched proposals to the curator of the Gem and Mineral Collection. It took persistence, but eventually, I made a connection. My goal was to produce an educational video about their world-famous gemstone collection.

When I finally met with the curator in Washington, D.C., I was ready. I had done my homework and knew what I wanted to achieve. Because of that preparation, not only did we get the green light to produce the video, but the curator did something extraordinary. He led me into the vault and allowed me to hold the Hope Diamond—all 45.52 carats of it. Actually hold it in my hands!

That moment, cradling one of the world’s most precious jewels, was a powerful reminder. Had I not done the work beforehand, the opportunity would have never materialized. We went on to produce the video, and it sold thousands of copies in museum gift shops across the country. The opportunity was amazing, but it was the preparation that made it all possible.

So, how can you apply the Hope Diamond Principle in your own life? Being proactive requires two things: knowing what you want and doing the work to be ready when the opportunity arrives.

1. Define Your “Why”

What are your goals? Whether it’s advancing in your career, learning a new skill, or strengthening relationships, clarity is the first step. When you know what you’re preparing for, your actions become more focused and effective.

2. Invest in Yourself

Read books, take courses, and find mentors. The work you do today builds the foundation for tomorrow’s success. For example, with music, I’ve always wanted to be ready to play guitar if someone needed me on stage, and that desire drove me to practice relentlessly.

3. Anticipate and Act

Pause and look ahead in your personal and professional life. What skills will be valuable next year? What conversations do you need to start now to build important relationships? Don’t wait to be asked; prepare to be chosen. Think two steps ahead.

Many people miss out on big chances because they simply aren’t ready. This month and for the rest of the year, let’s expand our definition of preparedness. Stock your pantry, yes, but also stock your mind, your skills, and your character. Be ready for your moment. You never know when it will arrive.