Yesterday’s announcement from Wally Bock that he will no longer add content to his fabulous and long running Three Star Leadership blog was sad for me. Yeah, I’m selfish about people I admire and call friends. I want the ideas and exchanges to flow forever! Wally, I am grateful for the inspiration, education, support, and friendship you have generously shared for years.

A New Chapter of Book Writing Services for Wally

Of course, lest you get the wrong idea, Wally is shifting from one chapter to the next (bad pun intended) in his remarkable career. Wally is focusing exclusively on his writing coaching services. If you want to write a business book, reach out to Wally for guidance. You’ll gain a knowledgeable, savvy partner who will make you think and make you and your book better along the way. And he’s a darned good accountability partner!

Early Inspiration for Me

Wally is the first leadership blogger I met after saying goodbye to my corporate life and embarking on my journey as a writer, coach, and leadership developer. I had noticed he wrote detailed book reviews, and I had just completed a book with my co-author, Rich Petro: Practical Lessons in Leadership. I contacted Wally and asked if he would consider reviewing the book. Wally said, “Yes,” and I sent it along to him and then held my breath for a month or more. Fortunately, he liked the book and shared an Amazon review that propelled me ahead in my writing work.

A Podcast and a Mutual Love of Great Leadership and Management Books

Over the years, we started a dialog that evolved into a friendship. We referenced each other’s articles. We connected on a fun podcast, that by our estimation had four listeners. That didn’t matter. We had a ball sharing our perspectives on our favorite leadership and management books. I expected us to be a bit of Siskel and Ebert opposites, but it turned out that we mostly loved the same books—often for different reasons.

Don’t tell my wife, but Wally probably put a dent in our household budget to the size of the national debt with his book suggestions. I think Wally is the best book reviewer I’ve encountered, offering a level of detail and a strong rationale for his perspectives. I’m still working on my inventory of Wally-recommended books.

Generous Help Along the Way

Over the years, Wally has been the go-to person for guidance on all manner of activities. When I was booked to provide leadership development training for the Alabama Jailers Association, Wally generously shared advice gained from his work with law enforcement. When I’ve been stymied on a writing project or exploring new ideas, he generously shares his wisdom.

2,672 Great Articles!

Aside from the personal respect and the person I’ve come to appreciate, his leadership and management articles were and are fabulous! (His site is live, and I know Wally is hopeful many will benefit from these articles for years to come.) My only grudging comment is that I’ve tried to get him to compile a collection of the Bock family-focused articles for years. I’ve always thought Wally’s great work was at its best when his fascinating Mom and Dad inspired it. The stories are priceless—always with a brilliant leadership lesson. Wally, if you need an editor for that compilation, I’m your guy!

The Bottom-Line for Now

Wally once remarked that he liked my “Bottom-Line for Now” sign-off. So, Wally, first and foremost, thank you for the opportunity to be on your leadership writing journey with you. It was my honor! And, importantly, wishing you joy and satisfaction as you strive to help yet another generation of emerging authors! Wally, you are remarkable and I am thankful to call you a friend.

Art's Signature