16: The Power of Perspective with Charles Hamm

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Shonda Ramsey interviews Charles Hamm, a 78-year-old author who published his first book, "Ponder on It, Pilgrims," at 76, which became a three-time international bestseller in 26 countries. Charles shares his journey, starting from his Marine Corps service, college education in classical Greek and Hebrew, entrepreneurial ventures, and retirement. He emphasizes the importance of wisdom, captured in his "four golden questions" that guide decision-making, speaking, thinking, and feeling. Charles also discusses his new role as a board member for the Marine Military Academy Alumni Association, which will enhance his public speaking career. He advises aspiring writers to trust their inner voice and write daily, regardless of age.

Action Items:

Connect with Charles here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-hamm-b0861434/

Website: https://charleshamm.com/

Charles’s Bio:

Texan-to-the-bone, Charles Hamm, is a veteran Marine sergeant, retired entrepreneur, and 3x #1 International Bestselling Author. With over 75+ years of changing identities including that of a doting husband and grandfather, Charles has experienced the highs and lows of life.

Residing in the Texan countryside, Charles took to social media to channel his daily thoughts on society, inclusivity, and mindful living. Quickly accruing an engaged following of over 25,000, our cowboy was widely encouraged to further compile his thoughts into Ponder On It, Pilgrims: The Bucolic Mark Twain on Critter Councils, Cookie Bandits, and Texas Grit. The book has been sold in 26 countries and continues to attract positive attention for its approach to self-reflection and positive thinking in the midst of the digital age of the 21st century.

Offering in-person and virtual presentations, Charles enjoys traveling the country to share his ponderings with student and veteran communities, as well as with for- and non-profit organizations.

Charles’s Letter to You:

Dear Indie Author, I want to start by saying it’s never too late to begin your writing journey. I wrote my first book in my 70s, and I can tell you from experience, the right time to start is whenever you feel that fire inside you. The road can be tough, filled with moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. But let me share a bit of advice that has guided me: Trust your voice. You have a unique perspective, shaped by your own experiences, and it’s a story worth telling. Don’t shy away from putting your thoughts out into the world, even if you think no one’s listening. I started by sharing my daily musings on social media, and before I knew it, over 25,000 people were paying attention. Your words have power—power to connect, to inspire, and to provoke thought. Whether you’re writing for one person or thousands, remember that the impact of your words goes beyond the number of books you sell. It’s about reaching that one person who needed to hear what you had to say. So, write with conviction, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The world needs your voice, and it’s never too late to share it. Sincerely, Charles Hamm