A couple of years ago, I caught Bryan Ward on a podcast.

I was so impressed I started listening to his show, Dad Up, regularly.

When I launched Campfire Gentleman, I told myself that if I could ever get on Dad Up, that would be the sign I’d “made it.”

So for six months… I did nothing.

I listened.
I admired.
I imagined what it would be like.

Eventually, I worked up the nerve to send an outreach email. At best, I expected silence. At worst, a polite no.

Instead, within an hour, Bryan replied:

“I love what you’re doing. Let’s get you on.”

A month later, I was interviewing him for Campfire Gentleman.

Not long after that, we were occasionally texting.

I don’t tell you this to impress you.

I tell you this because the gap between you and the men you admire is much smaller than you think.

Most of the time, the only thing separating you is one uncomfortable action.

Maybe it’s not a podcast host for you.

Maybe it’s:

Reaching out to a friend you haven’t seen in years.
Applying for the role you don’t feel fully qualified for.
Starting the workout plan you keep researching.
Having the hard conversation you’ve been rehearsing in your head.
Asking a successful local guy if you can buy him coffee and learn from him.

Whatever it is, the gap isn’t talent.
It isn’t luck.

It’s usually one uncomfortable step.

Take it.

Meaning is revealed in hindsight, but life demands action without full clarity.

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If this resonated, don’t just move on. The Campfire Gentleman Starter Kit is a focused, no-BS guide to help you realign your life around what matters most — Family, Purpose, Growth, Health, and Simplicity. Simple rhythms. Practical habits. Clear action steps. Start now — and build the life you’ve been meaning to live.

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Until next time—
🔥Keep the fires burning,
— Clay

P.S. I’d rather grow Campfire Gentleman through real connections than algorithms.
If this resonated, forward it to one friend.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this newsletter are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services I genuinely believe add value and align with the mission of Campfire Gentleman