Leave the Pile Higher, Grow Your Legacy
In 1983, my father, a hardworking blue-collar worker, made a life-altering decision for our family. Faced with the choice of my education, he chose to send me to a private Catholic high school, despite the financial challenges. His reason was simple yet profound: “My job is to leave the pile higher for you and your sister.” This statement, a guiding principle of his life, didn't fully resonate with me until after his untimely passing in 2018. It's this legacy of selflessness and commitment that birthed 'Leave the Pile Higher: Grow Your Legacy'.
On what would have been my father's 75th birthday, I launched this podcast as an extension of his “Why”. Here, we explore the intangible aspects of legacy that go beyond monetary or material wealth. Each episode delves into stories of resilience, creativity, and how breaking societal scripts can lead to profound impacts on others.
Join us for heart-to-heart conversations with diverse guests who share their journeys of setbacks, triumphs, and unwavering hope. We discuss how small acts and bold decisions can contribute to a lasting legacy, proving that anyone can make a difference, no matter their financial or social standing.
'Leave the Pile Higher: Grow Your Legacy' isn't just a podcast; it's a movement, a tribute to my father and to all those who strive to make life better for the next generation. It's about acknowledging that while we can't control the length of our lives, we can control its width and depth.
Subscribe now and be part of this journey. Let’s honor the philosophy of leaving the pile higher, not just for ourselves, but for those who follow. Let's build.
Leave the Pile Higher, Grow Your Legacy
Emmett Burns: Transforming Education for Future Generations
Have you ever wondered how someone turns life’s challenges into a powerful legacy? In this episode, I connect with Emmett Burns, an educator and founder of ClaraRuth Homeschool, who’s doing just that. Emmett and I first met years ago on a commuter train, quickly bonding over our shared love of football—we both played in college—and our diehard loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Beyond our love for the game, we’re both entrepreneurs with a deep passion for uplifting our community and those we encounter.
Emmett shares his inspiring journey from being an IT professional and fitness trainer to following his heart and his family’s legacy. He not only embraced the role of an educator but also took the bold step of opening and establishing a homeschool, named in honor of his two grandmothers. His story is one of dedication, innovation, and heart, shaped by the blessings and challenges of carrying the same name as his late father, Emmett Burns, Jr., a well-known civil rights activist.
But it’s not all serious talk—Emmett’s wife, Vanessa, stepped in as our “technical director” for the day, joining in on some fun and laughter. This episode is filled with personal stories, inspiration, and a bit of humor that you won’t want to miss. Tune in and join us as we dive into Emmett’s powerful vision for legacy-building and personal growth.
For those interested in homeschooling or exploring alternative education, the Clara Ruth Education Institute, founded by Emmett Burns, is a fantastic resource based in Baltimore, Maryland. Feel free to contact them at 443-804-1377 for more information.
But no matter where you are, don’t hesitate to reach out to Leave the Pile Higher, Grow Your Legacy. We're here to support you on your journey, offer resources, and help you build a lasting legacy through education. Together, we can shape the future.
Ready to grow your legacy and make a lasting impact? Let’s connect.
Schedule a 15-minute Legacy Snapshot—a quick session to explore how Savage Family Office can help you protect, build, and expand what you’re creating.
Together, we’ll make sure what you build today stands strong for future generations.
Book your Legacy Snapshot today and take the first step toward leaving the pile higher.
Are you or someone you know doing the work of legacy-building?
We’re always looking for guests with stories that inspire growth, faith, and perseverance.
To be considered—or to ask a question about an episode—email leavethepilehigher@gmail.com
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