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
Voices in the Storm: DaRon Wood, from Despair to Purpose
What’s it like to sit down with your best friend of 40 years for a podcast interview? It’s an incredible experience filled with laughs, life lessons, and heartfelt reflections. But the real challenge? Editing over two hours of raw, inspiring conversation into one unforgettable episode—LOL.
DaRon Wood’s story is one of resilience, faith, and transformation. From earning the rare distinction of U.S. Army Basic Training Honor Grad to receiving the Hyattsville Civilian Merit Award after heroically stopping a carjacking attempt, DaRon has faced life’s challenges with courage and conviction. That carjacking moment was a turning point—he quit smoking, started making healthier choices, and began aligning his life with a deeper purpose.
But DaRon’s journey hasn’t been without struggles. He shares a deeply vulnerable moment during a bitter divorce and custody battle—a rainy night when he hit rock bottom. Consumed by pain and despair, he just wanted it all to end. Driving at a high speed, he heard two voices—one said, “You’re defeated, let it go,” and the other immediately interjecting whispered, “My son, that’s not my voice. Collect yourself and go home.” Choosing to listen to God’s voice in that pivotal moment changed everything, setting him on a path of healing, redemption, and hope.
As a single father, DaRon raised his nonverbal son with autism, becoming his son’s biggest advocate and celebrating milestones like learning to type to communicate. Now remarried and blessed with a blended family of five children, DaRon shares how faith, family, and friendship have anchored him through life’s storms. He reflects on the joy of realizing lifelong dreams, the power of strong friendships, and his calling as a minister of the gospel.
This conversation is raw, real, and filled with wisdom about fatherhood, friendship, faith, and living with intention. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or seeking inspiration to leave a lasting impact, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in to hear the powerful and deeply personal story of my best friend and brother, DaRon Wood. It’s a conversation that will move you and remind you of the strength we all have to overcome.
If you’re ready to grow your legacy and make a lasting impact, I’d love to connect with you. Whether it’s about securing the right insurance, exploring business solutions, or discussing how to protect and build your legacy, let’s start the conversation. You’re invited to schedule a Legacy Snapshot—a 15-minute session where we can explore how Savage Family Office can help you achieve your goals. Together, we’ll work to ensure that what you build today will stand strong for future generations. Schedule your Legacy Snapshot today and let’s take the first step towards leaving the pile higher.
Are you passionate about building your legacy or know someone with an inspiring story to share? We’re always looking for impactful guests to join the show. If you’d like to be considered as a guest or have questions about an episode, please send an email to leavethepilehigher@gmail.com.
