On The Gentleman of Faith Podcast Titled: "Choose Respect Over Fear" Fear is not making you stronger - it is making you smaller. Anthony Buntyn breaks down why the image of the "tough guy" can sabotage your life, your relationships, and your future, and why respect is the real foundation of leadership, faith, and influence. Anthony shares the personal journey that shaped this message, from growing up with a speech impediment and insecurity to realizing that intimidation may get attention, but it never builds trust. He draws a sharp line between being feared and being respected, showing how fear creates distance, silence, and hidden opposition, while respect creates support, loyalty, and real connection. You'll discover: - Why people judge you in the first 10 seconds - and why that matters - How a "tough" persona can cost you opportunities at work, at home, and in business - The difference between fear, reverence, and genuine respect - Why changing how you dress, speak, and carry yourself can change how people respond to you - How faith and character shape the way others see you - Why Anthony believes the best version of a man is one who leads with dignity, not intimidation He also shares how the Society of Ordinary Gentlemen helped him grow into the man he wanted to become, along with practical encouragement for men who want to improve themselves, mentor the next generation, and live in a way that reflects their calling. Along the way, Anthony highlights the power of community, accountability, and intentional self-presentation - including the details of his journey with suits, etiquette, and even fragrances that help reinforce a gentleman's standard. If you have ever felt pressure to act hard, hide vulnerability, or prove your strength by making others uncomfortable, this episode will challenge that mindset. It is a direct, honest call for men of faith to choose respect over fear and to become someone people can trust, follow, and support. Perfect for men who are rebuilding their identity, growing in faith, or learning how to lead with confidence and character.

Today is a Wednesday in the office, followed by a trip into the city this afternoon for a business meeting and a seminar with my son. It is also a warm August day, but I still chose to dress this way very intentionally. For me, getting dressed well is never just about clothes. It is about setting a standard for myself and then doing my best to live up to it. A dark suit, light blue shirt, tie, black shoes, and of course a hat to finish things off. Every piece was chosen on purpose because I believe how I present myself affects how I carry myself. The truth is, if I don’t take myself seriously, how can I expect others to? That doesn’t mean being stiff or self-important. It simply means respecting the moment, respecting the people I’m meeting with, and respecting myself enough to show up prepared in every sense of the word. That is part of intentionality for me. And it is also part of optimism. I get dressed this way because I believe the day matters. I believe the meeting matters. I believe the opportunity to keep learning matters. And I believe how we show up in life matters. What makes today even more meaningful is that I’ll be spending part of it with my son. One of the things I have always believed is that more is caught than taught. He has seen this his whole life — that taking care with how I dress, how I conduct myself, and how I approach my responsibilities is simply part of who I am. And now, seeing him naturally carry himself in a similar way is a reminder that example is a powerful teacher. That encourages me. Because in the end, being intentional is not about perfection. It is about consistency. It is about standards. And it is about showing up — day after day — as the man I want to be. Wishing you all a Wonderful Wednesday!!

Headed up to Amarillo for a few hours today. Meetings with contractors and distributors. - heather gray polo with company logo - Brown leather Buckley belt - Slim fit tailored blue jeans - Brown lace up boots

I don't know about you guys, but Fall is by far my favorite season here in the Chicagoland area. You get to wear great shirts, boots, jackets and coats. I'm breaking into my Fall stuff a little early. Today I'm wearing my Timberland Pro pants, Smith Mills flannel, Hamilton Khaki King watch, and one of my pair of Asolo hiking boots. If you do any resl hiking or orienteering like I do, you owe it to yourself to try a pair of Asolo boots. They are true hikers, not your typical Merrell, Keen, or Salomon (although some of the Salomon boots are actually quite capable hikers, just not quite as hard core as the Asolo's) Wednesday is typically my last day of the week in the office as I'm generally remote on Thursday and Friday. I'll get back to my Wednesday suit days soon, too. Warner