Russell Fugett: 3(x)L

AI is supercharging hacking, and local hospitals, banks and small businesses are not ready. OpenAI says an unreleased model resolved more than 100 long-standing math problems, which raises two questions: who gets the credit, and who pays for the verification? In the UK, creators made AI training visible and politically costly and won royalties support from 7 in 10 adults. Florida's attorney general has asked a court to halt OpenAI's model development. Russell's take: no industry has ever regulated itself, and speed without stewardship is not leadership. Also today: why Judgment Call is a daily show, Paul goes public on the website, and how guest interviews will air on days Russell is not live.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

OpenAI and Anthropic are investigating tens of thousands of incidents in which their most capable models bypassed guardrails, escaped sandboxes, or tried to evade monitoring, and OpenAI has paused training its most advanced models. The same labs asking the world to slow down ship a better model every few weeks. On Friday the chairman of the FTC said he will resist treating AI agents as independent actors: if someone tells a tool to do something and it does it, the developer answers for it. Russell agrees, and goes further. Stop saying human in the loop. We don't need guardrails on AI so much as guardrails on people, and a kill switch cannot switch off the internet or an open-source model. Also today: Meta's privacy promise for its Muse agent, comedians turning AI anxiety into punchlines as a CNN poll finds 81% of Americans more concerned than excited, and five guests booked for October.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

Cornell's faculty committee on the future of the American university spent a year on one question and landed on an answer this show was built around. The university's purpose, they wrote, is a human-centered, integrated learning ecosystem to cultivate sound judgment. MIT's committee on AI in teaching went further: every subject will likely need to be re-examined, and students are skipping office hours and study groups because the answer is one prompt away. Russell reads both reports through his years in higher ed and his seat on a school board, and asks what college is actually selling now. Before that, the headlines: Blue Cross says AI-assisted coding added $942 million in hospital costs, China's AI short dramas, and Microsoft giving its Copilot agent a place in the company directory.Join Russell at the Generational Wealth Business Summit, Saturday, September 26, Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 East Pratt Street, Baltimore: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1758877884099About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

Russell has spent a day and a half with Instinct, an invite-only AI agent that lives in iMessage. It logged into a platform on its own, pulled the confirmation code from his email, and finished the job in about a minute. That is the promise of the AI agent in a box. The price is access to your data. From there, the news: Meta testing human contractors behind its Muse agent's phone calls, Verizon's $70 million AI training push after 13,000 job cuts, an OpenAI agent that reached into an Australian government health portal, YouTube's new AI creator tools, and Anthropic's CRISPR-like enzyme discovery. The through line: keep AI in your loop, not you in its loop.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

Maryland Governor Wes Moore released his AI framework yesterday, built on three guiding principles: protecting people, centering workers, and keeping kids safe. Russell, who serves as a gubernatorial appointee on the Maryland Economic Development Commission, walks through the press release live — frontier AI company oversight, a new right of publicity for name and likeness, housing and lending algorithm guardrails, protections for at-risk gamblers, worker transition support, and AI safety rules for schools. It's an executive order, not law yet, giving the state a six-month head start ahead of an expected omnibus bill next legislative session.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

A census of 839 AI training programs found that 44% teach how to use the tool, and only 8.9% teach the judgment to evaluate whether what it produces is actually any good. In business and creative work, the two categories where AI gets used most, that drops to 4%. Russell's take: the market sells you the button, not the judgment. He also previews an MIT report on AI in education coming later this week, and tells a personal story from around 2008-2009 about briefly pitching former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld on a business partnership.Source: Why Small Business AI Projects Fail and How to Avoid Pitfalls, Mexico Business News - https://mexicobusiness.news/professional-services/news/why-small-business-ai-projects-fail-and-how-avoid-pitfallsAbout the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

Jensen Huang told CBS News there's a 0% chance AI ends the world by 2030. Russell says nobody knows the number, and talks about where the truth probably sits, how to manage fear in a world of constant doom scrolling, and who AI companies are really answering to: investors, customers, or the public. He also looks at small business AI adoption and why a business that lives on phone calls can't afford to miss them.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Claude: https://claude.ai/referral/cC2wZqegHwWispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_ddPodMatch (find podcast guests and shows): https://www.joinpodmatch.com/russellfugettGoFractional (find executive-level fractional work or fractional talent): https://www.gofractional.com/r/j-russell-fugett

Majorities in 34 of 37 countries expect AI to eliminate more jobs than it creates. Russell looks at the Pew survey behind the headlines, then at an idea worth sitting with: when accounting had no credentials, fraud followed, and the CPA created a whole new industry. Could AI regulation and auditing do the same? He also walks through the Wide Open Index, a searchable episode database he built with Lovable in about half a day.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/Fugett Labs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/109656161/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RussellFugettListen to the podcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1438895395Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4JE76juI9ZHCxU4L49vK3KiHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-russell-fugett-show-107132223/Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/80942091-c3ed-42ab-98ca-9ed7e900b286Tools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBULBetterHelp (online therapy): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_dd

An AI-generated video appeared to show Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian shoving ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe after the win over Ohio State — and quarterback Arch Manning laughed about it in a press conference before the backlash hit and he apologized directly to Rowe. Russell breaks down what that means for your own reputation risk: not just how you use AI, but how carefully you consume it and react to what it shows you.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/Fugett Labs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/109656161/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RussellFugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBUL

Day three of Judgment Call. Anthropic is pushing hard to sell Claude to small businesses, and San Diego is weighing an AI tool that drafts city policy from decades of public records. Two stories, one question: who decides what the AI is supposed to do? We talk about why so many AI projects miss the outcome they were bought for, why AI should be treated like a new employee whose work you check, and how one bad source of truth can compound. Start with the outcome, not the old process.About the showJudgment Call is live every weekday morning. Every weekday, Russell Fugett thinks out loud about the decisions AI can't make for you. He's an entrepreneur, AI strategist, solutions architect, and a man of faith who builds real things with AI and talks plainly about the judgment behind them. No script. Five minutes or an hour, sometimes live from wherever he is. As the show grows, guests will start dropping in.Missing phone calls means missing revenue. Get Joe, the AI voice agent who's always on call. Visit https://fugettlabs.com to learn more.Have a bigger AI question for your business? Book a free AI Opportunity Discovery Call: https://audit.fugettlabs.comWant to be a guest, or have a thought to add? https://fugettlabs.com/aboutFugett Labs: https://fugettlabs.comRussell Fugett: https://russellfugett.comFollow @russellfugettLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrussellfugett/Fugett Labs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/109656161/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@russellfugettInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellfugettFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RussellFugettTools I use (affiliate links; I may earn a commission if you sign up)Wispr Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/r?J22272Lovable: https://lovable.dev/invite/KLWQBUL

Today, Russell talks about President Trump's $100 million investment in AI infrastructure in Central Africa, as well as AI adoption challenges in small business, according to a new report from the Federal Reserve.

Most bad decisions aren't made by bad leaders.They're made under pressure.In this episode of Inside the Deal, we look at why smart, capable leaders still make poor decisions when time is tight, information is incomplete, and responsibility is heavy.This isn't a motivational talk or a theory lesson. It's a practical conversation about how pressure changes judgment — and how to slow things down just enough to decide better.If you're leading, supporting a leader, or carrying real responsibility, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we redefine what it means to be truly rich—not in assets or titles, but in the presence of God, the fruit of the Spirit, and the things that never expire. I share why the greatest wealth is found in knowing God, living with purpose, and investing in eternity.We explore biblical truths that reveal the foundation of Kingdom wealth:"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.""But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.""You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.""As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."If you're tired of chasing what doesn't last and ready to become rich where it counts, this episode is for you.

Sign Up for The Kingmakers Briefing webinar, Thursdays at 1:30pm ET in July & August 2025!https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rV1o8fAcSl209qR2awFRcA#/registration____Looking for affordable individual or group therapy that you can do from home or on your phone? Check out Better Help. I found my therapist in December 2024 and she has had a huge impact on my mental and spiritual health. They even offer discounts if you are having financial challenges. Click the link, pick a therapist, and begin your journey: https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/f28c16d729eb10d8-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_dd___________I'm Russell Fugett—The Billionaire's Nephew and Your Outsourced Number Two.I help visionary leaders scale faster, think sharper, and execute with precision by serving as the trusted advisor behind the scenes—where clarity, capital, and strategy meet real momentum.As your Outsourced #2, I partner with founders, executives, and high-capacity leaders who are building bold visions—and often carrying the weight alone. When you're backed by capital but stuck in complexity... when you're surrounded by people but still feel isolated at the top... I step in as a stabilizing force and strategic partner.I bring decades of multidisciplinary experience across entrepreneurship, public service, community leadership, and high-stakes negotiation to the table.I've launched and led mission-driven ventures across tech, consulting, and media; advised state-level commissions; and played key roles in projects tied to millions in capital raised, contracts negotiated, and assets managed.I bring the mindset of a founder, the insight of a dealmaker, and the steadiness of a trusted number two—focused on results, not recognition.Whether you're navigating a strategic pivot, preparing for a capital raise, acquiring, or building a legacy business, I help align your vision with the execution and infrastructure it demands.I'm not just a coach or consultant. I'm your Outsourced Number Two—a unique resource, trusted advisor, and high-leverage asset when the stakes are high, the pressure is real, and the room feels thinner than it should.If you're a founder or leader ready to build what outlasts you—let's talk.

In this episode of the Russell Fugett Show, the host discusses the framework of 'Marriage Mission Money,' emphasizing the importance of marriage as a foundation for success in life and business. He explores the biblical example of Priscilla and Aquila, highlighting their partnership in marriage and mission, and the significance of stewardship in financial matters. The conversation encourages couples to align their purpose and work together for the kingdom, fostering a supportive and mission-focused relationship.TakeawaysMarriage is foundational for success in life and business.Priscilla and Aquila exemplify a powerful partnership in mission.Stewardship of resources is crucial for kingdom work.Hospitality plays a key role in community and church growth.Influence can begin at home, not just in formal settings.Couples should work together towards a shared purpose.Financial responsibility is part of a healthy marriage.Unity in marriage enhances peace and stability.Discipleship should be done in love and humility.Intentionality in relationships leads to stronger connections.Engaged or newly married and looking for a marriage coach? Checkout MyProgressCoach.comMen, need a coach, trusted advisor, unique Kingdom centered resource. Click the link above and check out Joseph Coach.

In this episode of the Russell Fugett Show, the host reflects on Teacher Appreciation Week, sharing personal anecdotes and biblical wisdom from the Book of Proverbs. He emphasizes the profound impact teachers have on their students, the importance of their words, and the quiet faithfulness with which they serve. The conversation encourages listeners to recognize and appreciate the educators in their lives, highlighting the legacy of teaching and the power of encouragement.TakeawaysThis week is Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to honor educators.Great teachers build foundations for their students' futures.Teachers' words can significantly impact a student's life.Encouragement and correction can both be spoken in love.Everyone has the potential to be a teacher in their community.Teachers often walk in quiet faithfulness, serving without recognition.It's important to thank and celebrate teachers for their contributions.Social media can be a tool to express gratitude to educators.Words spoken to students can shape their confidence and future.Reflect on the teachers who have influenced your life.

In this episode of The Proverbs Report, Russell Fugett explores the intersection of current events and biblical wisdom, focusing on workplace ethics, integrity, and the importance of character. Using the recent firing of a CEO as a case study, he delves into themes of power dynamics, the fragility of reputation, and the necessity of setting boundaries. The discussion emphasizes the lessons from the Book of Proverbs, encouraging listeners to guard their hearts, maintain integrity, and seek accountability in their personal and professional lives.TakeawaysThe choices we make have ripple effects on our lives.Integrity is crucial in both personal and professional settings.What happens in secret often comes to light eventually.Guarding your heart is essential for maintaining integrity.A good reputation is more valuable than wealth.Short-term desires can compromise long-term faithfulness.Setting boundaries is vital in maintaining trust.Accountability can help prevent ethical lapses.Reputation can be fragile, especially in high-profile roles.Living a life of integrity is a continuous journey.

Welcome to The Russell Fugett Show — where faith, purpose, and progress collide. Hosted by speaker, strategist, and coach Russell Fugett, this show is your home for honest conversations and practical insights on the things that matter most: wisdom, work, wealth, and walking with God.Each week, you'll hear from one of three powerful segments:

In this episode, J. Russell Fugett returns to his podcast after a two-year hiatus, sharing his journey of overcoming fear and embracing vulnerability. He discusses the importance of faith, obedience, and community engagement, emphasizing the role of men in leadership and mentorship. Fugett reflects on personal experiences, family dynamics, and the challenges of navigating social media, all while encouraging listeners to pursue their purpose and legacy.

January 18, 2023 was an amazing historic day as we celebrated the inauguration of Governor Wes Moore and Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller in the state of Maryland. Russell shares his thoughts on this day while reflecting on his relationship with his friend Wes and his hopeful optimism for the Moore-Miller administration. Russell remembers his uncle Reginald F. Lewis as the following day, January 19th marked 30 years since his passing. He also shares about his ancestors as Russell pounders the 30 year arch of time that has passed. Lastly, Russell ends the episode by sharing how he shared part of inauguration day with his friend Chris, culminating in a amazing and cool moment at the inaugural ball. WBAL Story on Reginald F. Lewis, February 2017: https://www.wbaltv.com/article/reginald-f-lewis-legacy-remains-strong-in-baltimore/8985858 Wes Moore Inaugural Address: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BRhESN5jbw&ab_channel=WBAL-TV11Baltimore

On January 11, 2023 Russell gave a brief address to the students, faculty, and staff at his alma mater, Georgetown Prep. This year's theme at Prep is Hope. Russell draws from Romans 5 and shares a bit of his reflections on his time at prep, referencing Prep as his beloved community in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King. Russell challenges the Prep community to make perseverance its identity and to leverage character in seeking their vocation. In doing this he says we can achieve our mission of being men for others.

In December 2021, Russell interviewed his father Jean Fugett Jr. on the occasion of his 70th birthday. In a brief but wide ranging lecture, Jean shares his perspective on being Black in America, history, education, his ancestors, and his hopes for the world his grandchildren will inherit. This episode is dedicated to his grandchildren- August Russell, Paige Mariah, Axel William, and Natalie Josephine.

On February 15th, 2022, Russell shared his family story to the 900 students of Joseph R. Fugett Middle School in West Chester, PA. Joseph R. Fugett is Russell's namesake and great grandfather. Russell tells the story of his great grandfather 6 times over, Henry Bakeman, a free Black man who fought in American Revolutionary War. He tells his great great and great grandfather's stories as well as those of his grandfather Jean S. Fugett Sr., father Jean S. Fugett Jr, and Uncle Reginald F. Lewis.

Russell and his family share their memories of Gen. Colin Powell. First, Russell shares his story of two times he missed out on meeting General Powell. Then Russell's cousin Marcus Fugett shares his story of meeting the General at a party in New York with he and Russell's uncle Reginald F. Lewis. To conclude, Russell's father Jean Fugett Jr. tells the his story of a meeting he had with General Powell at the Pentagon as he prepared to fly to Paris to take the helm as the new CEO of Beatrice Foods after his brothers passing. Happy MLK Day!

Russell takes us through Ezekiel 37:1-14 and the story of The Valley of Dry Bones. What are you believing for in 2022? God gives us authority to pray over the dry bones of whatever we have believed for and bring it back to life if our heart and spirit are aligned with Him. This short message will encourage you and get you ready for the new year.

Recorded Nov. 17, Russell interviews his brother Adam Jones just before he began play for the Orix Buffalos in the Japan Series- the equivalent of Major League Baseball's World Series. In this conversation they talk about the grind of the baseball season and lifestyle. They also talk a little about parenting and try to get outside the baseball box in getting Adam's thoughts on Leadership, Legacy, and Love. For those of you who've heard Adam before, this interview might be a little different. Be sure to check out Adam's podcast Heckle Deez and the episode he and their brother Reggie dropped on Nov. 30 to get his reflections on the Japan Series and what Adam's future may hold. This episode is sponsored by: www.AxeusTravel.com

In recognition of the 20th anniversary of the launch of ESPN's PTI, Russell shares how his life intersected with the shows hosts Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon. Russell tells the story of how his dad ended up at the Washington Post where he would mentor a college intern named Mike Wilbon. For Russell, the Washington Post sports section featuring Tony and Mike was a must read growing up in the late 80s and 90s. Russell met Tony when he interned as a high school senior at WTEM sports talk radio. Years later, Russell had a chance to speak to Mike during a meeting at Russell's high school alma mater Georgetown Prep. Russell shares how watching Tony work and what Mike shared during their meeting impacted him. PTI inspired Russell in 2009 to shoot a TV pilot with his father entitled Fugett Squared, an intergenerational dialogue on the world of sports. In telling this story, Russell pays tribute to the unique impact Tony & Mike and the PTI program have had on his life as a sports fan and as an entrepreneur.

Russell gives us a word on encouragement and how to be encouraged. He talks a little bit about growth mindset- the modern version of encouraging yourself. Then he goes into 3 steps for how we are to stay encouraged and maintain a peace and joy that surpasses our understanding and is greater than "happiness" and other fleeting emotions. Russell concludes by emphasizing how a relationship with God and how being in community with others can bring you full circle to a lifestyle of being encouraged no matter your circumstances or the discouraging news in the world. We can't do it alone! Learn more about Russell at www.RussellFugett.com Follow Russell @RussellFugett across social media. Sponsored by: www.JumlaNetwork.com

Ayanda Noma of Fano Ministries (https://fanoministries.co.za/) interviews Russell for their Entrepreneurship Corner (awareness), Train and Networking circle. As part of the Entrepreneurship circle, our interview was one of many recorded conversations with entrepreneurs in South Africa and abroad. The conversation was to focus on the journey from idea to business but this convo was a bit different. Learn more about Russell at www.RussellFugett.com Follow Russell @RussellFugett across social media. Sponsored by: www.JumlaNetwork.com

Welcome Back! After 9 months away, Russell is back to share more about his journey from 2020 through the first 8 months of 2021. He discusses the 3 elements of health he has leaned into, how he is praying bigger for the season ahead- for his marriage, family, and for Jumla Network where his business energy's have now been pivoted. He shares how he's over come the darkness of the winter months to find hope putting Christ first ahead of his entrepreneurial journey. Please subscribe and share this podcast- now publishing every other Friday with the occasional short "power" cast in between. Follow Russell @RussellFugett across social media. www.RussellFugett.com www.Jumlanetwork.com

YOLO! You Only Live Once...at least that's how many proceeded with their Thanksgiving plans. Russell uses a cute antidote from a conversation with his daughter to illustrate how Americans interpret COVID risk. He shares his thoughts on Americans selfish attitude and inability to delay gratification to avoid the virus and to lessen the burden on our front-line healthcare workers. Russell concludes by talking a little about his recent media project: Necessary Trouble Show (www.NecessaryTroubleShow.com). Please leave a rating & subscribe. Follow Russell @RussellFugett on IG, Twitter, & FB.

Russell predicts a Blue Wave for this election. He also reminds us the wave will crash on the rocks of voter suppression, voter intimidation, and attempted litigation as our current President attempts to bully his way to a 2nd term. These effort and the spirit and intent behind them will not end on election day or in 2020 even if we have a new President. Russell shares his perspective on whats ahead in this decade as the large, organized, progressive, and diverse Gen Z & Millennial's grow and as the GOP's white evangelical base shrinks. For more from Russell on the election check out: www.necessarytroubleshow.com Works Cited for this episode: Why Joe Biden is Going to Win: https://kendallkaut.substack.com/p/why-joe-biden-is-going-to-win ‎The Bakari Sellers Podcast: Ronald Brownstein on What's Going to Happen on Election Night: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bakari-sellers-podcast/id1520269301?i=1000496912256 The Raw Desperation of the Republican Party: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/10/raw-desperation-republican-party/616904/

In this episode, Russell offers a hopeful lament on the state of our American Democracy as we begin to head to the polls. Click here to join a 40-Day Fast & Prayer for a Free, Fair, and Safe 2020 Election and for Our Nation. https://www.turnoutsunday.com/40-day-fast To listen to episodes of "The Soul of the Nation with Jim Wallis" go here: https://sojo.net/media/gallery/soul-nation-jim-wallis

Good Word Digital is back! After 7 years in business, Good Word is focusing on loving its customers and its community. This renewed focus is based on the value of radical generosity. In this new season, we’re returning to our initial mission of helping you get out the good word. Take a listen to find out how!

Russell discusses some of the civic challenges that he sees in America that will prevent it from beginning again. In reference to the new book by Dr. Eddie Glaude by the same title as this episode, Russell discusses how America can move forward to transform and rid itself of "the lie" that white lives matter more than the lives of all others. Russell too is beginning again. He shares how he is moving into a new season of his entrepreneurial journey in community and in a spirit of love and generosity . The episode concludes with a short encouraging song from a very special guest! Connect with Russell at www.RussellFugett.com

In this #PowerCast, Russell reads his latest blog, a letter to the President, Trustee's, and Faculty at Trinity College in Hartford, CT. Russell is a 2001 graduate of Trinity where, as a student leader, he helped lead a protest to demand more resources for students of color. 2 of the demands made over 20 years ago were not addressed and are again being demanded by the students of the Umoja Coalition of Trinity College. You can read & follow Russell's blog at https://medium.com/@russellfugett Follow Russell via www.RussellFugett.com and @RussellFugett across social media.

An open letter to my white neighbors in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. A reading of Russell's blog which can be found at https://medium.com/@russellfugett/resist-the-temptation-to-criminalize-and-dehumanize-black-people-d59f8dc65aca

June 12th marks the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down all anti-miscegenation laws remaining in sixteen U.S. states. Today, Russell interviews Paige Robnett and Eric Barnes who are holding a virtual zoom wedding in celebration of Loving Day. In honor of Loving Day, if you are able, the newly weds ask that you donate time or money to support 2 causes: #BlackLivesMatter: https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/#donate Focus Hope which combats racism, poverty, and injustice in Detroit: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/focus-hope/paige-robnett-eric-barnes Follow & Like @RussellFugett on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

This episode is dedicated in the memory of: #AhmaudArbery #BreonnaTaylor #GeorgeFloyd #ManuelEllis

Rev. John Clark Mayden, Jr. joins Russell to discuss his new book, "Prayer: The Most Reliable Wireless Communication." Book Description: "In today's world of instant communication, any problems with cellular service or Wi-Fi access can be a major disruption to one's day. But there is one kind of communication that is always reliable and never disrupts: prayer. In Prayer: The Most Reliable Wireless Communication, Rev. John Clark Mayden, Jr. compares today's technology to communicating with God. This book will show you the importance of keeping the "air waves" clear to connecting with the God Who cares more about you than any other connection you'll ever make." You can purchase Rev. Mayden's book at Amazon.com: https://rb.gy/o8sart

Russell thinks he got it. COVID. Under control. Figured out. America. There are so many things we are all trying to figure it out during this season of pandemic. Many of these are not new and disproportionately impact the poor, women, and black & brown people. Russell unpacks a few things that he is working through and wants you to be encouraged as you work to do the same. This episode is dedicated to #AhmaudArbery. Follow Russell @RussellFugett on IG, FB, & Twitter.

Larry & Steffan discuss the work they are doing to meet the needs of people in Baltimore and Capetown during this season of COVID. They share with us the practical ways in which they are working while also sharing how God is moving in and through their lives as they meet the growing needs of the people in their communities. God is using this season and things are shifting as a number of new realities emerge. As you listen, you'll learn that the heart of God is the same for all of us no matter where you live, work, and serve. Iron is sharpening iron on this episode. We know you'll be encouraged! You can support and learn more about Hillsong South Africa at https://hillsongafrica.com You can support and learn more about i5City at https://i5city.com/bethechurch/

Russell's dad, Jean Fugett Jr., joins the show from Arizona. Russell & Jean discuss the state of our nation and the future of sports in this season of Coronavirus. Jean gives us his thoughts on when sports might be able to return and he's not optimistic for 2020. They discuss Sports as a microcosm of where we are as a global society and how we can look back to better understand our history so we can learn and be even better as we go forward.

Russell shares his post Easter Sunday thoughts on the state of the American economy. In this context, Russell looks to 1 Corinthians 4:8 and makes a call for humility. In the context of the war analogy in regards to the coronavirus and us being "in this together", Russell ponders how we can truly become a society that leaves no one behind.

Russell interviews his mother, Anne, to discuss where we are now from a spiritual and historical perspective. They discuss what lies ahead for the country and the world and how the church, people of faith, and each of us should respond.

We won't be fine but we will get through this. Russell shares his perspective and some Bible scripture and encourages us to lean in to this time of disruption and to be transformed through prayer and by the holy spirit. We must be transformed so that we in order to endure this season and prosper in the seasons ahead.

Russell reflects on his interactions with the late Hall of Fame DeMatha High School Basketball Coach, Morgan Wootten. He then shares his memories of Kobe Bryant and how his life and death has impacted him as a black man and #girldad.

Russell makes an announcement about a new assignment and shares how God has shifted his heart and perspective in regards to his entrepreneurship and faith journey.

Russell recaps his trip to South Africa and shares why its a New Frontier for him. He then spends the last 5 minutes sharing on how he is having patience in the pivot (times or seasons of transition). Russell's book, "Patience Perseverance Prayer" is now available for purchase at Amazon.com!

I discuss fatherhood in light of some recent events in sports. I also discuss my trip to South Africa as part of a private business delegation.

A few thoughts and 3 lessons I've learned recently in the context of this Thanksgiving/Christmas season. I think we all can use a bit more forbearance with family, friends, and the pressures of this time of year. I hope what I share offers some useful guide posts.