James Castellano is leader number two today in my interview series with readers of this blog. James can be found on Twitter HERE. James writes a great blog HERE.
Here are 10 questions with leader James Castellano:
When you were growing up, is this what you thought you would be doing vocationally? If not, what did you want to do?
An athlete, most likely a baseball player
What’s the most different job you’ve had from what you are doing now and how did that job help you with what you are doing now?
Owning a lawn care business… It taught me how to utilize my time and read financial statements.
Who is one person, besides Christ, who most helped to shape your leadership and how did they help you?
I was mostly self-taught through books. Some of the leaders I have worked with showed me what not to do. Ronald Reagan was probably the first leader I followed
Besides the Bible, what is one book that has most helped to shape your thought process in life and ministry?
As A Man Thinketh
What are three words other people would use to describe your work style/ethic?
Detailed, Calm, Open
What is your greatest strength in leadership?
Being able to instill confidence in others.
What is your greatest weakness in leadership?
Expecting too much out of others
What is the hardest thing you have to do in leadership?
Being first in line and setting the example even when I do not really want too.
What is one misconception about your position you think people in your church may have?
Being quiet and calm at times give the perception of lacking in confidence, which is entirely not the case.
If you could give one piece of advise to young leaders from what you’ve learned by experience, what would it be?
Change is inevitable, but self-improvement is optional. If you want to rise above the crowd, you must grow as a person and a leader.
Who is another great leader I may not know about yet?
You paint a detailed picture of yourself with little words. I would say that being detailed, calm,and open are great assets in being an effective leader. On a personal level, I have watched the growth of James. Coming from a man who is working on growing himself, the path of James Castellano (My Father) is one that should be written about in one of those books he has read my whole life. It is a story of humility, mistakes, growth, and success. With the support of his family, his awesome wife (My Beautiful Mother), and a work ethic second to none, James Castellano has become one great and admirable Leader. I am blessed to have a father who is not afraid to better himself on a daily basis. Change is inevitable and my Dad always grows with it. Thanks for everything Dad. I hope people read this as truth and not because you are my Dad.
Very cool. I love the tribute!
Chris, Reading your post makes it all worth while. Your an awesome son and I love you.
Oh…mushy on my blog…. I love it!
as someone who knows james well i agree that he is a great leader and i have enjoyed watching him become one even when he didn't think he could!
Thanks for the confirmation!