About

Scott Lackey

Hello, I'm Scott

From my earliest memories, everything I ever wanted revolved around two fundamental desires: the drive to build a business and the yearning for a life filled with adventure. The idea of building a business isn’t just about creating something profitable; it’s about my entrepreneurial spirit, the desire to innovate and to bring value to the world through my ideas and relationships.

Another core purpose for me is living a life of adventure. It’s not just about seeking thrills or escaping the mundane; it’s about embracing the unknown, delving into uncharted territories, challenging myself, and experiencing the richness of life in all its forms.

Despite these deepest desires, life has presented its share of challenges. I have always thought it appropriate that the middle word in life is “if”. There have been moments when it seemed like I had reached the end, only to be hit by a lightning strike of change that reshaped my very being instantly.

Through these trials, I’ve come to understand that our journey is not defined by the obstacles we face, but by our response to them. It’s adversity that brings the gifts we are seeking. We are, in essence, the architects of our own circumstances. I have also discovered that we are the architects and the driving force behind the changes we desire. Not our sphere of influences and social constructs.

As a Business Change Agent speaker, my goal is to ignite this transformative spark within others. My mission is to inspire individuals and organizations to confront the challenges they’ve been avoiding. The dreams and goals we seek are in the work we are unwilling to do. This requires an attack o our limitations to realize the results you have always wanted.

In sharing inspirational stories and insights, I aim to serve as a catalyst for change, guiding others towards a profound realization of their potential. It’s all about embracing the why and addressing the who—understanding the deeper motivations that propel us forward—that we truly unlock the power to transform our lives and businesses alike.

"When it feels like there is no way back, that is exactly where your new beginning starts. It’s not 'The End', it’s the beginning. The gifts are discovered in the pain."

A Glimpse into Scott's Journey

In 1982, at the age of 13, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey selling rocks I found during my summer adventures. I went through the neighborhood, knocking on doors with my collection, each rock holding a unique story. While the venture only amounted to around $5 in sales, it taught me early lessons in resilience, initiative, and the gifts of adversity.

A decade later, I created my first invention called “The Wire Dog” during my time in Iraq and Kuwait (Desert Shield/Desert Storm), born out of necessity to expedite secure communications. This invention, though innovative, faced challenges in bringing it to market due to my lack of experience. A short five years later, I patented my second invention a Childhood Health Passport that grew into numerous ancillary products. Eventually, the products initial success led to investment funding of $3M. However, I faced the harsh reality of losing control over my creation when the investors took over the company six months later, Lighting Strike! A powerful, life altering series of lessons teaching me invaluable business dynamics and the gifts of failure.

Transitioning to retail advertising, I dove into another entrepreneurial endeavor, driven by innovative ideas, intellectual property, and partnerships working with globally recognized brands. Despite the financial rollercoaster, this experience laid the groundwork for my corporate stint as the VP of Sales and Marketing, working with the Fortune 1000 companies both public and private, where I honed my business skills further.

Returning to entrepreneurship, I acquired three business in 2008, despite the global economic crisis, I was still able to grow the business through additional acquisitions over 500% and then sell them. It was an extraordinary adventure in adversity trying to swim upstream to success and great content for my upcoming book. Remaining entrepreneurial, I began consulting with businesses experiencing their own lighting strike survival events helping, ownership, secured lenders and Boards navigate to a renewed stable operational business. On the other side of the spectrum, I helped startups build out their business plans, operational structure and raise capital while also supporting clients looking for an exit strategy. My self-imposed challenges and business experience have been my greatest training ground in resilience and discipline in adverse climates. My pursuit of adventure has been deeply transformational both internally and experientially. All of it, has set the stage for my journey ahead.

A Glimpse into Scott's Journey

In 1982, at the age of 13, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey selling rocks I found during my summer adventures. I went through the neighborhood, knocking on doors with my collection, each rock holding a unique story. While the venture only amounted to around $5 in sales, it taught me early lessons in resilience, initiative, and the gifts of adversity.

A decade later, I created my first invention called “The Wire Dog” during my time in Iraq and Kuwait (Desert Shield/Desert Storm), born out of necessity to expedite secure communications. This invention, though innovative, faced challenges in bringing it to market due to my lack of experience. A short five years later, I patented my second invention a Childhood Health Passport that grew into numerous ancillary products. Eventually, the products initial success led to investment funding of $3M. However, I faced the harsh reality of losing control over my creation when the investors took over the company six months later, Lighting Strike! A powerful, life altering series of lessons teaching me invaluable business dynamics and the gifts of failure.

Transitioning to retail advertising, I dove into another entrepreneurial endeavor, driven by innovative ideas, intellectual property, and partnerships working with globally recognized brands. Despite the financial rollercoaster, this experience laid the groundwork for my corporate stint as the VP of Sales and Marketing, working with the Fortune 1000 companies both public and private, where I honed my business skills further.

Returning to entrepreneurship, I acquired three business in 2008, despite the global economic crisis, I was still able to grow the business through additional acquisitions over 500% and then sell them. It was an extraordinary adventure in adversity trying to swim upstream to success and great content for my upcoming book. Remaining entrepreneurial, I began consulting with businesses experiencing their own lighting strike survival events helping, ownership, secured lenders and Boards navigate to a renewed stable operational business. On the other side of the spectrum, I helped startups build out their business plans, operational structure and raise capital while also supporting clients looking for an exit strategy. My self-imposed challenges and business experience have been my greatest training ground in resilience and discipline in adverse climates. My pursuit of adventure has been deeply transformational both internally and experientially. All of it, has set the stage for my journey ahead.

Committed to Guiding and Empowering

My journey is not just a narrative of entrepreneurial ventures and challenging myself personally, but a testament to resilience and the transformative power of adversity. Having faced personal struggles and setbacks, I understand the profound impact of what happens when lighting strikes in our life and careers.

In times of darkness, whether from illness, loss, or business hardships, it’s vital to embrace and immerse oneself in the changes. Through my own experiences, both personally and professionally, I’ve learned that adversity is the magic that reshapes us, and discipline is a key that unlocks every breakthrough. Therefore we should seek it out to uncover hidden strengths, weaknesses, insights or a new direction we need to achieve our goals. Let’s embark on a journey together, rediscovering the magic of adventure, the art of discipline, and the resilience that emerges from facing challenges head-on.

"My brand identity is grounded in values like trustworthiness, compassion, intentionality, and the courage and the discipline to confront life's storms."

When I step onto the stage, I bring charisma, humility, and authenticity, aiming to connect with your audience on a personal level. Beyond discovering “your why,” its critical we talk about “who”. My message resonates with rekindling your spirit of adventure and embarking on a new journey of restoration.

Their story is a beautiful adventure, and I invite them to embrace it fully. Together, let’s navigate the twists and turns, finding inspiration and renewal along the way. They are the author of their life, they are the change agent they are looking for and I’m here to support and empower them in every step of the journey.

Personal Life

Embracing Service and Family

As a United States Army Veteran with eight years of service, including tours Germany, Desert Shield/Desert Storm in Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, I’ve remained dedicated to serving others. Beyond military service, I’ve continued my passion through community projects and mission trips, embodying the spirit of selflessness and courage that I share with audiences to empower them to do the same.

I’ve been honored with a Citizen Certificate of Merit for courageously engaging an active shooter, supporting a police officer, and saving someone’s life. This experience, is always a reminder of my thankfulness and gratitude that I could be at the right place and time to help. I have always desired to make a positive difference in my home, neighborhood, community and our country. 

Living near Atlanta, Georgia, with my wife Michelle of 28 years and our children, Skylar and Sydney, we embrace life’s adventures together, cherishing moments of travel and family time with our children and our beloved dog, Fender (yes, from the guitar brand).

Acting Opportunities

What as awesome experience in a lead role of a short film.

What Others Are Saying About Scott

Jason Brewer

"It was about 0330 when we got up and it was still pitch dark when we set out for a 100 mile Ironman training ride and then two mile run afterwards. We always earned our sunrise chasing a vision of what we wanted to become. Scott was that individual you see or imagine that was getting up earlier than you. They were already training, grinding, and pushing themselves to change. Real change. The change that comes from staying in discomfort. Scott knew what it took, and I witnessed it as his Ironman training partner. He craved that uncomfortable place because he knew that's where real change happens. I got a front-row seat to see what's in a person if they are motivated, driven, and disciplined to make consistent progress towards a goal. The type of change I saw Scott make and his influence on others lasts a lifetime. He's an IRONMAN."

Jeffery magnus

"The first time I heard Scott speak, it only took minutes before I knew he was going to bring a powerful story. It was intense listening to him speak so directly and authentically. I will never forget his story waking up one morning empty, like his soul was just an unending void and what happened next. As I listened, I could feel everything he was saying and it was transformative to my life. I left that day, deciding to make some changes in my life and I am excited for all those who will get to hear Scott speak and ultimately read his book!"

Alan Randal

"It has been years since Scott and I worked together, but when he told me he was writing a book I jokingly said, “you better let me write a testimonial” and here I am. I first met Scott as a referral from my Law Firm. My business was virtually an inch away from filing for bankruptcy, investor frustrations escalating, suppliers not willing to ship products because I was so far behind, and family relationships in my business were falling apart just as fast. Not a proud season and my first meeting with Scott was so very different than I could ever imagine. I don’t remember how long we talked, but what I will recall for the rest of my life was the end of our meeting when I thought he was going to tell me what I was convinced of, it’s over. Scott asked me, “what are you willing to sacrifice to save your family?” I said “everything”. He followed up by asking “what are you willing to sacrifice to save your business?” I remember pausing for along time and I told him, “I think whatever I need to but not my family.” For the next seven or so months the painful work seemed never ending. My family was protected, my relationships restored, my scars healed over time and I’m still not quite sure how we did it. But Scott always told me, “Lean-in during these moments and relax in the discomfort, you are going to be rewarded with great gifts on the other side of this”, and I hated hearing it every time he said it. But it was and is true and while I don’t want to experience this again, I would not be the man I am today without those events and Scott’s guidance and leadership. He was the change agent we needed when nothing seemed possible."

Kim Bramblett

I have been Scott’s Triathlon Coach since 2021 across, Sprint, Olympic, Ironman 70.3 and Ironman 140.6 race distances not to mention ½ Marathons, 10k’s and 5k’s. What I admire most about Scott is his ability to set goals, navigate the obstacles and immerse himself in the adversity with his infectious Never Give Up Attitude. Scott is always sharing his gifts with others, selflessly helping those who aspire to challenge themselves both professionally and athletically. I am grateful to know him and thankful he’s allowed be to lead him through his triathlon career.

Drew B. Taylor

It’s hard to find people that boldly demonstrate Activation. Scott has a knack for using Faith, Wonder, and Action to illustrate what is possible.

His action, energy, and genuine enthusiasm helps people turn their dreams into reality.

Club House Trailers

https://youtu.be/9JXD4Mjs9H8