sabbatical [suh-bat-i-kuh l]
any extended period of leave from one's customary work, especially for rest, to acquire new skills or training, etc.
July 2025 Sabbatical Recap: Beaches, Business, and Family Adventures
July kicked off with a bang—literally and figuratively. I started by recording a video for the San Antonio Business Journal's Best Places to Work awards alongside Publisher Jimmy Holmes. It was a fun way to reflect on what makes workplaces thrive before diving into full sabbatical mode.
Next up, I hosted 60 friends and family at my house for a lively 4th of July party. Patriotism, grilling, and good conversations set the tone for a month of relaxation and connection.
The first week took me to Port Aransas beach with friends. We soaked up the sun, swam in the Gulf, and unwound.
Mid-month, I headed to Guatemala to help launch Vistage there. Collaborating with Vistage Guatemala's CEO and chairs on training was invigorating. I spoke to 80 leaders at an AMCHAM event about leadership, standing at the podium with U.S. and Guatemalan flags waving behind me.
I also appeared on the radio show "Negocios" with hosts Maria Dolores Arias (@Md30) and Bruno Defelippe (CEO of Vistage Guatemala), discussing social entrepreneurship and its impact.
We led a hands-on training session for chairs, then presented problem-solving techniques to Vistage member candidates in Antigua and Guatemala City. I truly love the people and country and it was an honor to be invited there.
Back in Texas, I went horseback riding with a friend. I tackled house projects, caught movies, and savored quiet evenings and time by the pool reading
The month wrapped up with "Pop and Lolli Week" with our two oldest grandkids. We shot model rockets in the park. We hit the beach again, where the boys chilled at "Casitaville," munching donuts, and having a blast. Fishing was a hit too—we fished here then again at the beach. While we didn’t catch much, it didn’t matter to them!
July blended professional growth, travel, and family joy—recharging for what's next. I am grateful for member support during my sabbatical month. Now I am charged up and ready to get back at it!
Click below to listen to the Sabbatical episode of the ChairLife Podcast
Each year in July, my members and coaching clients allow me to take a month off. I invest this time into family, friends, rest, reading, learning and serving. I'm grateful for this opportunity and wanted to share some resources for you.
Resources for Sabbaticals
Forbes: Do you Need a Sabbatical?
HBR: Employers Benefit When Employees Take Sabbaticals
Past Sabbatical RECAPS
2023
This year began by hosting some friends at our house for good ‘ole 4th of July picnic. We ate hot dogs, sang patriotic songs and waved the American Flag! From there I spent time with family in Arkansas. A special moment for me was sitting on the recently dedicated Cuthbert Bridge, drinking a beer and simply watching the sun set on Lake Greenwood with friends.
Our service time this year was working in Guatemala. We spent a week there working in a rural area called Chiquamula. Over 50% of Guatemalans line in poverty. We worked on a wall around a community center, built hygiene stations in the community and loved on the amazing people.
I also spent time with our kids and grandkids. Carrying my grandsons on my head at Seaworld on a 100 degree day was both hot and fun! Reading a book and visiting the Denver Zoo with my sweet granddaughter was super special! The little things like throwing a football with my son Joe and his friends, date nights with my wife Jill and making smores on my daughters patio as the sunset over the Rockies were wonderful memories.
About three weeks in, I started missing the people I work with! My “job” is amazing and I’m inspired by the over 120 leaders I have the privilege of working with. I was ready to be back! It was a great time off and I am grateful.
July 2019
July 2018
