What is the measure of a man? What is a life well lived? I have often thought about those questions, and with John Aceti’s help, I had the opportunity to explore them through John’s amazing life. Spry and vibrant at 93, I met John after he had published his 7th book in 92. As I got to know him and his life story, I wanted him to share his amazing and inspiring journey beginning in Niagara Falls in the 1930s to his current life in the Hill Country of Texas. Overcoming a humiliating incident at age 8, John was the first in his family to go to college, served in the Air Force, became a teacher and the principal, and retired from his first career. In his second career, he and his wife traveled internationally and ended up in Kerrville, Texas, where John began another career as an author. Join me on this fascinating journey From Last to First with John Aceti.

From Last to First is an inspiring podcast that shares how difficult events in childhood can shape one’s professional career. Host Tom Fox visits with guest John Aceti, who talks about growing up in Niagara Falls, New York. In this episode, John shares his middle school experience, where an embarrassing third-grade incident led to years of harassment. Despite struggling academically and repeating the eighth grade, John found hope in the departure of the students who knew about the incident, allowing him to focus on his studies and eventually turn his grades around.

John takes us on a journey into his high school experience, where basketball and music were his passions. He opens up about his struggles with a lack of confidence in basketball and how being recognized as a star in his music group helped him realize his potential. John feels grateful for his supportive parents and the mindset he developed in college, which helped him succeed academically. With a hopeful ending, Tom thanks John for sharing his story and promises to continue the conversation in the next episode. Take advantage of this inspiration-filled episode!

Key Highlights:

· Overcoming Bullying in Junior High

· High school experience with basketball and music

· Father’s advice on education and visualization impact

· Music performance and audience engagement

 Notable Quote:

“I found myself spending more time listening to my teachers, studying, writing, and making sure that all my work was done to the best of my ability, even though in the back of my mind, I remember.”

Resources

John Aceti’s author’s page on Amazon