About Lamell McMorris:

Lamell grew up on Chicago’s South Side, navigating challenges and learning early that persistence isn’t just a mindset—it’s a necessity. From there, he built Phase 2 Consulting and now advises Fortune 100 executives, civic leaders, and organizations working to bridge public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

His journey inspired The Power to Persist: 8 Simple Habits to Build Lifelong Resilience, and the podcast of the same name. Both explore how we can lean into struggle, turn setbacks into setups, and live a life of impact.

In this episode, Kevin and Lamell McMorris discuss:

• The roots of resilience and work ethic from childhood experiences
• Why vulnerability strengthens leadership and connection
• Faith as both a guiding principle and a lived practice
• The role of servant leadership in building trust and influence
• Eight habits that sustain leaders through adversity and success

Key Takeaways

• Work ethic isn’t just about putting in hours—it’s about persistence, resilience, and refusing to give up even when circumstances are stacked against you.
• Vulnerability in leadership is not a weakness; it’s a doorway to deeper trust and stronger relationships within teams. A leader who shares struggles invites authenticity in return.
• Faith serves as both compass and fuel. By believing in possibilities that can’t yet be seen, leaders are able to make courageous decisions in moments when logic alone might say “stop.”
• Leadership is best expressed through service. When leaders model humility and prioritize serving others, they become approachable and authentic.
• Failure is not the opposite of success — it is part of it. Mistakes, missteps, and hard lessons often contain the most powerful opportunities for growth, if leaders are willing to face them with honesty and reflection.

"Everyone can lead because everyone can serve." – Lamell McMorris

Connect with Lamell McMorris:

Websites: http://www.phase2-consulting.com/

http://www.lamellmcmorris.com/

http://www.greenliningrealtyusa.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088140180810

Reserve a copy of Lamell’s book, The Power to Persist: https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist#order-section

Connect with Kevin Neal:

Website: https://drkdneal.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS

https://www.amazon.com/Guided-Greatness-Mentorship-Developing-professionals-ebook/dp/B0FGBH1VNS

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63