As an individual who represents overcoming adversity, Dave has dedicated his life helping others to help themselves. As a former Air Force Combat Air Crew Member, Dave’s job entailed midair refueling of the once highly secretive SR-71 Blackbird and the F-117 Stealth Fighter. While on active duty, Dave was selected as California Volunteer of the Year. Dave has received personal commendations from four U. S. Presidents. Dave was honored as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans, and later, was the only American to be honored as The Outstanding Young Person of the World. Dave is also the recipient of the National Jefferson Award which is considered the Pulitzer Prize for public service. Other recipients include Sandra Day O’Connor and Colin Powell. Dave is the author of nine inspirational books. His books have been on the Best Sellers lists for well over 13 years combined. A Child Called “It” alone has been on the New York Times bestsellers list for well over 6 years. Dave is the first author to have four #1 International Best Sellers and to have four books simultaneously on the New York Times Best Sellers List. For nearly the last ten years, Dave has served as a California Fire Captain in two separate districts. During that time, he’s been deployed to the state’s most horrendous fires.
In this episode, Dave shares his story of abuse and resilience, highlighting the importance of human connection and the power of small gestures. He emphasizes the need to adapt to the new normal and take responsibility for one's life. Dave's books, including 'A Child Called It,' have had a profound impact on readers, inspiring them to overcome challenges and build resilience. He encourages individuals to live a grand adventure and always find a way to achieve their goals through hard work and focus. In this conversation, Dave Pelzer shares his insights on living with purpose, the power of movies and film, the possibility of making a movie about his story, reflections on his life now, the importance of authenticity, finding happiness, and the work of Josh and the next generation. He also discusses using comedy to tell a story.
Dave recently launched his own podcast which you can find on his website www.davepelzer.com
Takeaways
Adapting to the new normal requires acceptance and taking responsibility for one's life.
Human connection and small gestures can have a profound impact on individuals who have experienced trauma.
Overcoming challenges and building resilience is a lifelong journey.
Hard work and focus are essential for achieving goals and living a fulfilling life. Live with purpose and make the most of your time.
Movies and film can be powerful sources of inspiration.
Authenticity and being of service are key to finding happiness.
The next generation has the power to make a difference.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Appreciation
02:21 The Impact of Dave's Book
05:46 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience
08:46 Adapting to the New Normal
11:32 Taking Responsibility for One's Life
14:22 The Importance of Human Connection
19:38 Dave's Story of Abuse and Resilience
25:36 The Power of Small Gestures
29:00 The Message of Dave's Books
31:21 The Importance of Hard Work and Focus
32:48 Living with Purpose
37:42 The Power of Movies and Film
39:39 Making a Movie about Dave's Story
43:10 Life Now and Reflections on the Past
47:42 Authenticity and Being of Service
51:13 The Importance of Authenticity
55:27 Finding Happiness and Enjoying the Ride
58:16 The Work of Josh and the Next Generation
01:00:00 Using Comedy to Tell a Story
