The Conference, the Canyon, and the Cell: Rethinking Environment and Influence

It's been a wild ride the past week as three events showed me some of the highs and lows (spotlights and shadows if you will) of the human experience - from a high profile stage, to a quiet canyon...to jail.

It’d be easy to play a round of “One of these things is not like the other,” but instead, let’s look at what connects them.

The Experienes

#1. Scottsdale, Arizona was designated pristine location for the National Speakers Association's annual conference, "Influence."

Mountain West Chapter of the National Speakers Association

It was my first time attending this particular event, and I was absolutely blown away. From the accommodations to the education and entertainment, it was a top-tier production. Smoke, lights, perfect music and timing—it was a masterclass in conference execution.

The weekend was extra special for me personally as I got to watch my friend and mentor, Ty Bennett, and his two sons, Tanner and Drew, deliver an astounding performance from the main stage. I also watched fellow members of my Mountain West Chapter receive honors and accolades (shoutout to Clint Pulver and Jimmy Lea!). I met new friends, ate fancy food, and brushed shoulders with some of the best speakers in the world.

Top notch experience!

#2. An off-grid camp-site up the canyon was the designated remote location for around a hundred young adults from a local organized church.

HJ Kennedy speaking to young adults in Middle Canyon, Utah

Only days after walking the halls with elite professional speakers, it was my honor to be chosen as the guest speaker for a group of twenty-somethings in the canyon. No light shows. No sound mixing. Just a corded mic and the backdrop of granite and cottonwoods.

The passion I feel for these young people—and their enthusiasm to be #starters—makes these opportunities among my favorites. The engagement is always next level, and I feel privileged and humbled to show up as the Starter I strive to be—to make the difference I know I’m meant to make.

Top notch experience.

#3. Jail is the designated location for individuals deemed unfit for society. Whether accused or convicted, a judgement removes them from certain privileges afforded the masses.

HJ Kennedy entering detention center

Several weeks ago, I was escorted on a private tour of our county jail by the commander. Today, I met with him again to discuss a potential new clientele I’ve never coached before:

inmates.

And I gotta admit, I love the idea.

For one hour each week, I’ll be coaching convicted individuals on finding purpose, overcoming obstacles, and making the most of their lives. Will it be a top-notch experience?

I’ll let you know.

The Analysis

Having these three encounters back-to-back put my attention on the breadth of inconsistencies in human experience—in environments, cultures, and opportunity. An array of logistics play a major role in our development and education. Two people with similar talents may end up in radically different circumstances, based on how they were cultivated (or diminished) by their surroundings. So here's my personal resolve—if you care to join me.

The Resolution

Recognizing that people are a critical part of environment, I’m doubling down on my mantra:

"It doesn't take a village, it takes a team."

I commit to creating environments that foster growth. To be a coach or teammate when invited. A fan to everyone, always.

And I do mean everyone—from the high rollers to the low lives.

We don’t realize how much setting, appearance, and labels influence our interactions.

So most importantly, I’m renewing my effort to view every individual without judgment. Is it naïve to imagine a world where we meet without pretenses? Where we come to the table with clean slates, absent of titles or status? With unclouded vision, we’d all be a little kinder. A little wiser.

I’ve been asking myself:

Is the value of my influence greater on an elevated stage under spotlights than it is in a concrete cubicle with impact-resistant glass?

Am I chasing a paycheck? A trophy?

Or is it change and impact I’m after?

Here’s to saying yes to every opportunity to spark change—regardless of circumstances or personal benefit.

And here’s to seeing with clearer eyes. To seeing people as God created them—full of potential. Worthy of celebration.

All of them.

Wish me luck.