For many entrepreneurs, the journey to success is paved with unique challenges and valuable lessons. Earl Morrison, founder and owner of Leading And Learning With Character, exemplifies this path. From a decorated career in law enforcement to becoming a beacon of leadership training, Earl’s story is one of resilience, intentionality, and a passion for positive change.
In an insightful conversation with Lance Johnson, the founder and CEO of Amplomedia, Earl shares the experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial venture, the obstacles he overcame, and his vision for the future.
From Law Enforcement to Leadership Training
Earl’s background is deeply rooted in law enforcement. With nearly 29 years of experience in criminal justice, he served in various capacities, including roles in the prison system and as a chief of police. His extensive experience exposed him to numerous toxic work environments, where he witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of poor leadership and lack of accountability.
“I wanted to make a difference,” Earl told Lance. “I wanted to be the problem solver, to be a solution, not part of the toxicity.”
This drive led Morrison to create Leading And Learning With Character, a consultancy focused on leadership training that transcends sectors. Although his initial clients were predominantly from law enforcement, his training programs have since expanded to encompass city departments, fire departments, and other organizations. His goal is to broaden the scope and demonstrate that effective leadership principles are universally applicable.
The Power of Mindset
When asked about the three things every entrepreneur should know, Earl emphasizes the importance of mindset. “The biggest thing is mindset,” he asserts. “You have to get your mindset to the point where you’re going to pursue success, despite obstacles or what others say.”
This holistic approach urges entrepreneurs to stay positive and intentional in their pursuit. Earl reflects on his journey, acknowledging the slow and challenging path he navigated. “You need to stay positive in your pursuit because you’re going to face obstacles. Just press forward and keep doing it.”
This resilience is coupled with a disciplined approach to intentionality. “You need to be intentional about what’s next,” Earl emphasizes. “It’s crucial to get your message out there and be disciplined in your actions, especially when it gets tough.”
Building a Business with Passion and Purpose
Leading and Learning With Character offers a variety of resources, including books and classes, designed to help individuals and organizations develop strong leadership foundations. Morrison’s first book, “Leadership Lessons Learned,” is the cornerstone of his training programs.
“The idea is if I can take what I’ve learned through my own mistakes and struggles and share that with others, it can help them develop into better leaders,” Earl explains.
His training programs are not just theoretical but practical and experiential. Earl shares the transformation he witnesses in his classes, particularly in multi-day sessions. “You get to see a transformation from when they came in the beginning to when they come back the next day,” he says. “It’s the feedback from people saying they’re thinking about things differently that keeps me going.”
Overcoming Challenges
Despite his success, Earl acknowledges the challenges that come with entrepreneurship, particularly in marketing and expanding beyond his initial niche. “The obstacle is getting it out there, especially outside the law enforcement world,” he says. “We’re learning as we go because I don’t have a million-dollar investment for advertising and marketing.”
Earl is candid about the personal challenges he faces in this journey. “The biggest obstacle is me. When it’s hard or different, we sometimes don’t want to do it. But you have to be intentional and pursue it.”
His strategy involves leveraging various platforms to share his message, including podcasts and summits. Earl’s dedication to spreading his leadership principles is unwavering, and he remains patient and persistent.
Reflections and Future Goals
Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Morrison finds immense pride in the small moments of impact. “It’s the little nuggets of feedback that are huge,” he says. “When someone tells you they’ve enjoyed the training and are thinking differently, it makes all the difference.”
Looking ahead, Earl has ambitious goals for the next 12 months. He aims to expand his reach and ensure that his training programs are accessible to a broader audience. “We can’t be the best-kept secret out there,” he asserts. “We need to be out there, pursuing things and putting ourselves in front of people.”
Earl’s vision extends to mentoring the next generation of leaders, embodying the principles of servant leadership. “As long as I have one person to reach, there’s no reason to stop,” he says.
Final Thoughts
Earl Morrison’s journey from law enforcement to leadership training is a testament to the power of resilience, intentionality, and a commitment to positive change. His story offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike. By embracing challenges, learning from failures, and continuously evolving, Earl has built a consultancy that not only addresses immediate leadership needs but also fosters long-term growth and development.
For entrepreneurs looking to be inspired, Earl’s story is a reminder that success is not a straight path. It involves constant learning and a deep commitment to one’s vision. As Earl continues to lead with character and mentor future leaders, his impact on the industry is sure to be profound and lasting.
Looking to divulge your own entrepreneur story? We’d love to hear and share it here! Contact us today to uncover your inspirations, triumphs, and learnings.
