Author: Don Yaeger

Recapturing Gold, Restoring Pride

Written on June 21, 2012.

As the USA Men’s Basketball Team heads to London as the favorite to win gold, it’s hard to believe that just a few years ago, even medaling at the Olympics seemed an uncertain prospect. A series of embarrassing setbacks, including a horrific showing in the 2004 Games, left many wondering whether the rest of the world had caught—and passed—the United States in a game created in America. That’s when longtime National...

One Last Father’s Day Tribute

Written on June 20, 2012.

On Sunday, while celebrating with my two little ones, I read a dozen or so wonderful Father’s Day tributes on the internet. Many of you probably did the same. A couple were from famous men writing notes to their grandchildren. That afternoon I sat down and imagined what my father, who passed away in 1999, would have written to my son and daughter based on the life he lived.

Hatteras Funds

Written on June 20, 2012.

“His down to earth style and charm delivered a topnotch program to our attendees.” David B. Perkins, CAIA | Chief Executive Officer, Hatteras Funds

Don’t just get a Ph.D in life…

Written on June 13, 2012.

Warrick Dunn is one of the most exceptional people I’ve ever met. Warrick played 13 years in the NFL, becoming the smallest player in the league’s history to carry the football for more than 10,000 yards. While in high school, his mother, a police officer, was killed during a robbery at a bank. When Warrick made it to the NFL, he started a foundation and continues today to help buy homes for single mothers like his....

Alliant National

Written on May 31, 2012.

“The value this effort brought to our conference is immeasurable because the spirit it brought was compassionate, noble, and generous!” Robert J. Grubb | CEO, Alliant National

Changing the World, One Pencil at a Time

Written on May 30, 2012.

One of the greatest parts of my work as a speaker is getting to watch other presenters at events share their amazing stories. A couple of weeks ago, at a celebration of a company’s top performers, I met Adam Braun (adam@pencilsofpromise.org) and it was a jaw-dropper. I couldn’t wait to join in the standing ovation.

I’m Going to Be an Awesome Grandfather

Written on May 23, 2012.

This weekend in Sarasota the most recognized voice in college basketball, Dick Vitale, gathered 900 of his closest friends to make a difference. The gala was built to raise money for the cure of pediatric cancers and the night was a celebration of Vitale’s one-time broadcasting partner, Jim Valvano.

High Fiving Your Way To A Championship

Written on May 17, 2012.

With the NBA playoffs in full bloom, I’m looking for something a little different as I try to assess who might win this year’s title. I’m looking for high fives, butt pats and chest bumps.

Check Your Ego at the Door

Written on May 9, 2012.

Every Saturday during the college football season, millions of fans tune in to ESPN’s College Football GameDay. On the set are four of the most well-known faces in all of college football. Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, former Heisman Trophy Winner Desmond Howard and Lee Corso entertain fans from their traveling desk—usually at the best game of the week.