Springfield Teenager Launches Award Winning Book and Podcast After Teacher Claims His CEO Dream Was Unrealistic
Mychal Connolly Jr. Turns Teacher’s Doubts into Inspiration with "Realistic CEO”
Springfield, MA - When Mychal “Mikey” Connolly Jr. shared his lifelong dream of being a CEO with his high school teacher, she dismissed the idea as unrealistic. Connolly could have been discouraged; instead, he turned it into a lesson for others.
Connolly co-authored the book, I am a CEO. Realistic CEO., with his father, entrepreneur and local business owner Mychal Connolly Sr. The pair spent several weeks writing the content and several more months refining the details. The story follows Tony (Connolly’s middle name is Anthony), a student who aspires to be a CEO. When he shares his goal with his teacher, she suggests he consider something more realistic. Undeterred, Tony develops a plan for success while learning valuable business skills.
FUN FACT: The simple to read book is 17 pages because Jr. was 17 years old when the incident with his teacher occurred.
School Committee Member Highlights Mikey Connolly Jr.'s Journey from Doubt to Inspiration at Graduation
Footage courtesy of Focus Springfield Community TV
During his graduation ceremony, School Committee Member LaTonia Monroe Naylor shared Mikey's inspiring story in her speech to him and his fellow Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical High School Class of 2024 classmates. She highlighted Mikey's resilience and dedication to turning a discouraging moment into an opportunity for growth, serving as a powerful example for his peers. Naylor's acknowledgment of Mikey's achievements underscored the importance of perseverance and following one's dreams, no matter the obstacles.
Journey to Leadership:
From Book to Podcast
After completing the book, Connolly Jr. decided his next step was to learn firsthand what it takes to be a CEO. He launched the Realistic CEO Podcast, where he has interview conversations with successful business owners, CEOs, founders, presidents, executives, and community leaders to explore how they started their journeys and their advice for success. "The main theme I’m finding for being a CEO or leader," Connolly explained, "is that communication, listening and kindness towards the people who work for you are among the most important things."
One of his goals with the podcast is to interview NBA legend and Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal, someone Mikey relates to for “having both basketball skills and business skills”.
While initial interviewees were contacts through his father, the podcast's growing reputation has led others to reach out to be part of future episodes. Connolly begins each interview by reading a copy of his book aloud, setting the stage for discussions on leadership and success.
Recognized as a Young Leader:
Junior Achievement's "18 Under 18"
Connolly's dedication and achievements have not gone unnoticed. He was recently named one of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts' "18 Under 18," an honor celebrating young leaders who demonstrate outstanding achievements and potential. Additionally, he has received awards for his impactful podcast and inspirational book, further solidifying his role as an emerging thought leader.
Early Influences and Family Support Fuel Connolly's Ambition to Become a CEO
Mychal Sr. and Mychal Jr. speaking with 347 high school seniors at Enfield High School, Enfield, Connecticut
Growing up, Connolly received an early introduction to business leadership by observing his father being mentored by and taking advice from other business owners like John Sortino, founder of Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Michael Kittredge, founder of Yankee Candle, and David Klein, founder of Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, while pursuing his early enterprises, Stinky Cakes and Stand Out Truck®. This exposure, combined with a pivotal conversation with John Sortino when Mikey was 10 years old, solidified his ambition to become a CEO. "When John explained what a CEO does, something just went off in my brain. That’s what I wanted to do," Connolly Jr. recalled.
Mikey and his brothers, Aidan and Miguel, learning about the “C-Suite” from Vermont Teddy Bear Company Founder, John Sortino.
With strong support from his family and community, Connolly has remained focused on his goal. "Honestly, sometimes I get down on myself, but having people around me that push me allows me to keep going," he said.
Sharing Wisdom and Inspiring Dreams: The Impact of "Realistic CEO"
As he moves forward, Mikey plans to share Realistic CEO with more schools and youth-centric organizations around the country, encouraging young people to pursue their dreams. Although the book refers to being a CEO, the message inspires readers to reach for any goal, listing careers like photographer, chef, driver, dancer, CEO, marketer, videographer, singer, writer, designer, streamer or gamer in the book.
The final three sentences of the book are the ones Connolly feels inspire youth:
“No dream is too big if you’re willing to work for it. Everyone has a special dream that can change the world. What’s yours?”
“It allows the readers to take away the things they learned in the book,” he said. “It’s letting them know that when you’re working hard, working smart and you’re working right, you’re able to achieve your goals.”
He hopes that by sharing his journey, he can inspire his peers and the next generation to achieve their own goals.
Balancing Basketball, Video Games, and Entrepreneurial Ambitions
In his spare time Mikey is an avid basketball player and video game enthusiast, balancing his love for sports and gaming with his entrepreneurial ambitions. On the basketball court, he channels his competitive spirit and teamwork skills, while in the world of video games, he finds a creative outlet and a way to connect with friends. These hobbies not only provide him with a much-needed break from his busy schedule but also teach him valuable lessons about strategy, discipline, and perseverance. Mikey's passion for basketball and gaming complements his entrepreneurial journey, offering him diverse experiences and perspectives that enrich his personal and professional life.
Take a look inside the book, I am a CEO. Realistic CEO.
Be inspired by Tony’s transformation from a big dreamer to a Top CEO in the book I am a CEO. Realistic CEO. Order here: https://www.realisticceo.com/store/p/book
Realistic CEO Podcast Episodes:
In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, we welcome Joe Bednar, the editor-in-chief of Business West Magazine. Joe shares his journey from aspiring sports writer in the sixth grade to his 23-year tenure at Business West.
In this episode of the Realistic CEO podcast, we welcome Joe Bednar, the editor-in-chief of Business West Magazine. Joe shares his journey from aspiring sports writer in the sixth grade to his 23-year tenure at Business West. He discusses the pressures and rewards of editorial leadership, the importance of open communication within his team, and how he balances work and personal life. Joe offers insights into planning and time management, reflecting on the significance of storytelling in his career. Tune in to learn from Joe's extensive experience and hear his advice for aspiring CEOs.
00:00 Introduction: Defying Expectations
00:22 Welcome to the Realistic CEO Podcast
00:34 Joe Bednar's Early Aspirations
02:02 The Path to Business West
03:01 Roles and Responsibilities at Business West
04:25 Editorial Process and Team Dynamics
07:22 Leadership and Team Chemistry
28:15 Balancing Work and Personal Life
30:16 Final Thoughts and Advice
32:28 Conclusion: Reflecting on the Journey