What if the secret to a fulfilling life isn't about personal achievement at all, but rather how we help others succeed? Doug Thorpe reveals this profound truth through his remarkable journey from being raised by a single mother to becoming a leadership coach who refuses to retire at 72.
Growing up without a father, Doug's mother wisely surrounded him with mentors who created what he calls "a patchwork quilt of influence." This foundation established his lifelong belief in mentorship—a practice he continues to this day as both mentor and mentee. His natural gravitation toward leadership began in elementary school as the captain of crossing guards and continued through military service, a 20-year banking career, and now as a leadership coach guiding others to success.
Doug challenges conventional wisdom about retirement, money, and purpose. "I don't have the word retirement in my vocabulary," he says, finding continued fulfillment in helping entrepreneurs and leaders develop their potential. His perspective on finances is equally refreshing, sharing the story of a "bag lady" who was ecstatic about having $500 in her account compared to a wealthy client despondent despite having $1.5 million. As Doug wisely frames it, "enough is not an amount, it's a relationship with what you have right now."
Whether discussing leadership principles, financial wisdom, or his diverse faith journey that led him to simply identify as "a believer," Doug exemplifies how serving others creates the most meaningful life. His podcast "Leadership Powered by Common Sense" (approaching 400 episodes) and coaching practice continue to extend his influence to those seeking purpose-driven leadership and entrepreneurship. What mentor has shaped your journey, and how might serving others bring greater fulfillment to your life