On November 25, 2024, I received a copy of Maximize Leadership in 3D, a book written by Donald Covin II (also known as Coach DJ). I first heard about the book from the author’s father, Mr. D.C. Colvin.
Picture it (in my Sophia Petrillo voice), Youngstown, Ohio, November 14, 2024; the Youngstown Public Library, Main Branch. I had an interview scheduled with Ken Brown to discuss the production of his team’s Family Holiday Musical & Toy Drive. Prior to the interview, Ken asked if it would be alright for one of the cast members, Mr. D.C. Colvin II, to join us.
I had no problem with Mr. D.C. Colvin joining us for the interview—the more, the merrier, right? Mr. D.C. Colvin joined us for the interview, and during our conversation, I asked him, who does he know that I should interview? His son was one of the names he mentioned.
And that’s when I learned about his son’s book: Maximize Leadership in 3D. Mr. D.C. Colvin spoke highly of his son and his book (and, of course, he had wonderful things to say about his other children as well).
Nevertheless, Mr. D.C. Colvin promised to make sure that I received a copy of the book, and I made sure to hold him to that because I was very intrigued! I was also excited to learn more about this author-son of his from Youngstown who had written a leadership book! I told Mr. D.C. Colvin that I’d read the book and write a summary once I finished, so... here we are!
Now, about the Book…
Maximize Leadership in 3D is a leadership development book written by Donald Colvin II.
Let me start by saying this: I’m no stranger to leadership. I enjoy reading about leadership, I enjoy learning all that I can about the subject, I enjoy leadership, I love leadership quotes—and most importantly, I love following great leaders!
I believe that in order to be a great leader, you must first know how to be a great follower.
So, to get straight to the point: I enjoyed the book, and it moved me in positive ways. As I read, I kept thinking of new ideas and solutions that could help me tackle some of the leadership challenges that I’m currently facing.
Now, I’ll admit, it wasn’t the easiest read for me. The book includes several math-related leadership formulas that slowed me down. Also, the author’s frequent references to earlier chapters required me to think hard to remember what he was talking about at times, so I had to go back and remember. And in some cases, I didn't bother to go back to get an understanding of what I missed.
On the flip side, I found the book most engaging when the author used sports analogies, shared stories about his family, and told anecdotes from Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. Those parts of the book were most interesting to me because the author spoke so passionately about each topic, and did a great job of making his point about leadership in the process.
In fact, I could easily see the author writing three separate books in the future on those topics: “Leadership in Sports,” “Leadership at Home,” and “Leadership in the Church.” I say this because I can tell that the author had a lot more to say on those topics, but chose to hold back as to not make book too long....at least that I think!
I have a lot more to say about the book, but honestly, I’m short on time, and I don't want to make this post too long! I received the book on November 25th; my goal was to finish reading the book and write a summary by November 30, today is December 3rd, so I’m a little behind schedule...yet super pleased with myself at the same time!
Nevertheless, I took a lot of notes, and I also took pictures of the pages that I wanted to go back to. I’m hoping to connect with the author in order to delve a little deeper into some of the topics that I struggled to get through.
In the meantime, here are a few quotes from the book that I found pretty powerful.
“Instead of focusing on measuring the cost of human assets within your organization, explore the benefit opportunities they bring in greater depth.”
“It’s important to note that not all high performers are effective leaders.”
“LIDs and LID2s should be assigned leadership roles that align with their individual purpose, drive, and ambitions.”
“Leaders with extremely high IQs or who may be a bit socially awkward can struggle in certain environments. But these individuals are often the ambassadors of discretionary efforts, extraordinary talents, and exceptional solutions. They should be mentored to unlock their full potential.”
“A leader’s primary use of authority is to establish a culture of trust by controlling and limiting adverse conditions surrounding their entity.”
Overall, Maximizing Leadership in 3D is an insightful read. I definitely recommend it, especially for those looking to deepen their leadership journey.
And finally, at the end of the book, the author shares his prayers for what he hopes the book will accomplish—to encourage and inspire future and current leaders. And to that Mr. D.C. Colvin Jr, I say that your prayers have been answered because I’m encouraged, and inspired, and I’m sure that whoever reads this post (and your book) will also be encourage and inspired!
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