MASTERMINDING
How a Small Group Changed My Life and Shows Up at the Center of “Profit Seeks Purpose”
Have you heard the term “masterminding”?
It may be new to you, but it’s an idea that has shaped my leadership, my work, and now — my book, Profit Seeks Purpose.
At its core, masterminding is simple: It’s a group of people who meet regularly with a shared purpose. Together, they help each other think bigger, solve challenges, stay accountable, and grow.
The term “mastermind” (in this context) was first coined by Napoleon Hill in his classic book: Think and Grow Rich (published in 1937)
In the book, Hill describes a “Master Mind” as:
“The coordination of knowledge and effort of two or more people, who work toward a definite purpose, in the spirit of harmony.”
Hill thought that combined efforts create an intelligence and power beyond individual contributions. In his studies, he found the mastermind principle a key element in the accomplishments of the most successful people.
In Profit Seeks Purpose, the book I am currently writing, a mastermind group plays a central role — and for good reason.
Let me share where this all began for me.
My First Mastermind: Buffalo Grill, 2002
I was introduced to masterminding during a very intense season of life.
In 2002, while serving as Division Chaplain in the 75th Division after 9/11, I found myself in a complex and critical mission.
Our Division’s task was to prepare Army Reserve and National Guard units deploying for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Teams were spread across a dozen states, training at places like Fort Hood, Fort Riley, and Fort Polk.
In staff meetings in our Headquarters in Houston, senior leaders coordinated logistics, personnel, and operations. These were important — but formal.
Then came something different.
The Chief of Staff had an idea. Every Friday morning, he invited a handful of senior leaders to gather — not in the conference room, but at a local restaurant, Buffalo Grill, in a quiet back room.
There, in that informal space, something special happened.
We didn’t review action plans or reports. We talked about ourselves — our personal challenges, leadership struggles, family pressures, hopes, and dreams.
We shared ideas, helped make connections, spoke of our experiences, offered advice, held each other accountable, and listened deeply.
Week after week, those Friday morning mastermind meetings became a lifeline. We became more than colleagues — we became allies and friends, supporting each other to lead well in both life and work.
Looking back, I realize how essential that group was. It shaped me as a leader, as a chaplain, and later, as a facilitator of mastermind groups in civilian life.
Masterminding in Profit Seeks Purpose
My experience is foundation to the premise of Profit Seeks Purpose.
In the very first chapter, the main character, Caleb, is invited by his friend Nathan to join a mastermind of successful entrepreneurs.
Like my group at Buffalo Grill, Caleb’s group becomes a place for more than just business strategy.
It becomes a space for honesty, encouragement, realignment, and purpose.
What About You?
Have you ever experienced something like a mastermind—a group of peers who gather to help each other face challenges and pursue something bigger — together?
I’d love to hear your story.
Share in the comments below if you’ve been part of a group like this, or if you’ve wished for one.
Next week, I’ll be sharing a scene from Chapter 1 of Profit Seeks Purpose. I’d love your thoughts and feedback as this journey unfolds.
Until then — keep growing, and keep helping others grow, too.