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What does it take to build a telecommunications empire from your garage? Jim Tracy knows firsthand. After his 17-year-old son challenged him to start their own business, Tracy cashed out his retirement accounts and took the ultimate bet on himself and his family. The gamble paid off spectacularly as Legacy Telecommunications grew from two employees to nearly a thousand before Tracy sold to private equity.

But success wasn't handed to Tracy on a silver platter. As a child with a severe stutter, doctors once recommended sending him to a state school for "retarded children." His mother refused, beginning a journey that would prove those doctors profoundly wrong. "I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed," Tracy admits with characteristic humility, "but I refuse to be outworked."

This determination faced its ultimate test when a devastating skiing accident left doctors threatening to amputate his leg. Even after successful surgery, medical professionals told him he'd likely never walk properly again. Tracy's response? Walking 12-15,000 steps daily and completing obstacle courses with his grandchildren.

Beyond personal resilience, Tracy offers profound insights on building winning teams. In an age where American business has largely forgotten mentorship, he emphasizes surrounding yourself with people who are "better, faster, stronger, smarter" while investing in their growth. His practice of writing personalized birthday cards to every employee exemplifies his philosophy that recognition and genuine care create unbreakable company culture.

Tracy's new book "Building Men" (releasing June 3rd) shares character lessons from the 22 mentors who shaped his journey. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or simply facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Tracy's message resonates: "Don't let go of the dream." At 66, he rejects traditional retirement in favor of what he proudly calls his "big, audacious life."

Subscribe to hear more inspiring stories that go beyond the game and show how principles of perseverance, teamwork, and mentorship create success in business and life.

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