James M. Durant III is Career Appointed Senior Executive in the US Federal Government serving as a Chief Counsel for the US Department of Energy. Raised with four siblings by a single mother in an impoverished environment, he became a lawyer and judge advocate retiring as an Air Force Colonel.

Jeffrey M. Allen's family had little money. He survived religious discrimination, excelled in school, and became a successful attorney, educator and author. He held numerous leadership positions in charitable, civic, and professional organizations.

Part I: Business 1. The Power of Belief 2. 'Echale Ganas' 3. Begin Again 4. The Rule of Eighteen Part II: STEM 5. Honing My Craft 6. Preparing to Be a Pioneer 7. A Story of Firsts Part III: Academia 8. A Story in Black and White 9. The Influence of My Parents and Community 10. Determine Your Own Yardsticks Part IV: Government 11. Listen to Others 12. Bouncing Back Better 13. Dancing Naked in the Snow 14. My Story 15. Challenges can bring opportunities; but finish your education! 16. My Journey Part V: Sports 17. Fight the Good Fight and Never Give Up! 18. From Gridiron to Courtroom: Embracing a New Path Part VI: Arts 19. Reciprocity Part VII: Military 20. What Can I Offer? 21. Take Pride in Your Leadership 22. Plan, Prepare, & Execute Part VIII: Law 23. Dream It, Believe It, and Work to Achieve It 24. My Coming to America 25. My Story 26. If You Cannot See It, You Cannot Be It; It Is Indispensable for Others to See You; I See You 27. Creating Your Own Path 28. A Kid From the South Side With a Dream 29. How The Power of Hope, El Poder de La Esperanza, Can Open Doors: "Remember, We All Come From Somewhere" 30. Know Thyself