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“Things That Matter by Lonnie Essex is a practical, story-driven guide to leadership rooted in lived experience rather than theory.
Reading this book gave me a deeper appreciation of the backstory that shaped those qualities, his early hardships, his service in the military and at the White House, and his corporate leadership journey.
It is also inspiring and practical, reminding us that leadership is not about titles but about clarity, service, and authenticity. It challenges readers to define and live their own "things that matter."”
Adrian DavisPresident and CEO Whetstone, Inc., Author
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“Sitting down to read "Things That Matter" is like having a conversation with my mentor, Mr. Essex. His daily guidance is a deep reservoir of experience and practical wisdom that he draws upon from his personal history.
This book is not just a list of tips for success, it reveals the authentic leadership principles that he uses to coach others. These lessons resonate because it's clear that this is how he coaches himself; he truly lives it. Authenticity is one of the most important traits for me.”
Kelly DiasDirector Federal Sales, AVI-SPL
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“What a fun and inspiring read! “Things That Matter” is more than a leadership book, it’s
a personal guide for anyone who wants to lead with purpose. Through powerful lessons
drawn from real-world experience, Lonnie shows that leadership isn’t about titles or
personality types, but about values, self-awareness, commitment to growth and people,
and the impact we make.
Through personal stories, timeless wisdom, and practical tools, he guides readers to discover their own “Things That Matter”, the values that shape character and inspire true leadership.
What makes this book special is how it blends story with strategy. You’ll find real
experiences, memorable lessons, and concrete steps for uncovering your own Things
That Matter and weaving them into every aspect of your career and life.”
Patricia GonzalezCEO, Real Talk Coaching and Consulting Services
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“A down-to-earth guide on what real leadership looks like. Essex takes you through his own remarkable journey, from a small-town boy working at his family's small grocery store to a successful leader serving at the White House and managing muti-million-dollar operations. Each chapter blends real life stories with practical lessons, showing that leadership isn’t about titles or power, it’s about service, resilience, and helping others succeed.
Leadership is not something you are born with or just for a select few, instead it is built. Whether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or looking to refine your approach after years of experience, Things That Matter gives you a practical, honest roadmap. A must read!”
Kimberly EscobarDirector, Dynamic Contracting, Inc.
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“Lonnie A. Essex’s “Things That Matter” is one of those rare leadership books that feels
both deeply personal and immediately practical. Rather than recycling clichés or
abstract theories, Essex draws on his own journey, from small-town Tennessee,
through military service at the White House, to decades in corporate leadership, to
show that leadership isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you learn,
practice, and refine.
What makes the book stand out is how Essex insists that leadership begins with self-
awareness. He doesn’t just tell you to “be authentic”, he shows you how to actually!
As a young professional myself, still early in my leadership journey, this book resonated
on a personal level. Like many aspiring leaders, I sometimes feel the pressure to prove
myself quickly or to model my approach after others. It gave me both clarity and reassurance that leadership is a path I can actively build, one step at a time”
Arthur Scudeler BrunettiRetention Manager, Gozney
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“As an advisor to business leaders, I see this book as a manual for both business and life.
The TTM framework is a powerful pyramid of ten core principles that helped me understand how to lead with more humanity.
Lonnie Essex captures these principles with clarity and impact, showing us how to identify, communicate, and demonstrate them through engaging storytelling rooted in his own journey, from the White House to global boardrooms.
It’s rare to find a book that’s both practical and inspiring. This one is.
Real leaders shouldn't just read it, they should study it if they want to build a meaningful legacy.”
Fady RamzyPersonal Branding Strategist & Advisor to Business Leaders
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“Easy read + thoughtful introspection = Inspiring & motivating outcome. Define your own leadership journey through the Things That Matter (TTM) Framework Pyramid.”
Katie ValleEVP Global Sales & Managing Director, Technology Solutions
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“"Things That Matter" is a leadership guide grounded in personal stories, practical tools, and timeless values. Targeting young leaders, entrepreneurs, and seasoned change-makers, the book demystifies leadership by moving away from jargon and performance obsession, and toward real trust, clarity, and connection.
“Things That Matter” is a powerful and practical guide to leadership. Lonnie’s life lessons and personal stories empower business leaders with the tools to inspire trust, build strong teams, and deliver results in today’s fast-changing environment.”
Mike GarveySenior Vice President, AVI-SPL
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“This should be a valuable asset for any young entrepreneur looking for the experience and leadership knowledge that you've collected over the years. AVI-SPL is very fortunate to have a person of your caliber working for them.”
Ken ShortDirector, Public Sector at Synergy SKY
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“I spent a valuable portion of my career under Lonnie and his excellent leadership, building something new and unique at Cisco. His natural, empathetic guidance brought out some of the best in me and everyone he's mentored. One of the best to do the thing!”
Jim DaySales Vice President - LeadVenture
