Today’s Peace of Wisdom Can Be Found When We Realize That Solving the Problem Starts With Finding the Actual Problem—Not Just the One We See on the Surface
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Insight with Gordon Mote
Humility & Insecurity
with Vince Gill
Listen to the Episode Here
Vince Gill joins Gordon Mote to talk about a career defined by collaboration, character, and conviction. From his early days in bluegrass to solo stardom and now touring with the Eagles, Vince shares how choosing humility, giving respect, and staying true to family values shaped his path. He opens up about insecurity in the studio—even with legends like Eric Clapton—and the power of perseverance when no one else believes. With stories behind his timeless hit “Go Rest High on That Mountain” and reflections on unity in a divided world, this is Vince Gill like you’ve never heard him.
Disussion Questions
1) Vince Gill talked about struggling with insecurity—even after decades of success. Why do you think humility and self-doubt are so common among truly great performers? Can you think of a time when your own insecurity actually pushed you to do something better?
2) Collaboration came up again and again in this episode—from bluegrass bands to the Eagles. What stood out to you most about how Vince approaches working with others? How might that mindset help in your own work or relationships?
3) Vince said, “To get respect, you have to give respect.” In your experience, how does that idea play out in real life—whether in your job, family, or creative projects? Is it harder to give respect when you feel like you’re not getting it?
The Four Notes Game
Recently, Gordon and Vince were hanging out when things took a turn toward the piano… and then quickly off the rails. Gordon tried to rope Vince into the classic “four notes” game—something every piano player knows—but Vince had no clue what he was talking about. What followed was equal parts confusion, comedy, and charm. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when two music legends go off-script, this one’s for you.
From the Contributor's Dock
Gordon Mote

GordonMote.com
Here’s a question: What do these artists have in common?
Alan Jackson, Barbara Streisand, Blake Shelton, Bob Segar, Carrie Underwood, Elvis Presley, Bill Gaither, George Strait, James Taylor, Hank Williams Jr, Keith Urban, Kenny Rogers, Kid Rock, Kenny Chesney, Lionel Ritchie, Lynard Skynard, Merle Haggard, Mick Jagger, The Oak Ridge Boys, Randy Travis, Steven Curtis Chapman, Sheryl Crow, Tim McGraw, and Willie Nelson.
What do they all have in common? The answer is Gordon Mote. He is the keyboard force behind music that will be remembered for all time:
On more than 100 number 1 hit songs… On 75 more that made the top ten… On 70 million albums covering the musical spectrum like no one else in history…
Now, Gordon brings his talent and incredible life lessons to Wisdom Harbour. Get to know Gordon Mote. He will soon be among your favorites!
Protocol Conversations
Flag Etiquette
with Monica Earley
Monica Earley is back for another Protocol Conversation, and this month, she’s discussing flag etiquette. You’ll hear about who has authorization to hang a flag at half-staff and when, how to be respectful at a sporting event, the proper way to display and take down your own flag, and more!
Discussion Questions
1) Respect for the flag is shown in many ways—standing during the national anthem, removing your hat, saluting, or placing your hand over your heart. Why do you think these gestures have endured for so long, and what do they communicate to others when we continue them today?
2) Monica emphasized that even children should be taught how to show respect for the flag. How can families and schools work together to pass down these traditions, and why might it be important to do so?
3) In some communities, the flag is lowered to half-staff for local tragedies, while in others, people don’t even know why it’s lowered at all. What does this tell us about awareness and unity—and should we do more to ensure people know the reasons behind these symbols?
From the Contributor's Dock

Monica Early has invested the majority of her adult life teaching relationship skills and etiquette. That is a simplified explanation, of course, but as a valuable contributor to Wisdom Harbour, she is the most qualified expert in that field we’ve ever come across!
Monica is the recently retired Chief of Protocol for Air Force Special Operations. In that role, she was directly responsible for protocol support of dignitaries and distinguished visitors from Congress, the Department of Defense, private industry, and international allies. With the U. S. Special Operations Command in Tampa, Florida, she led numerous joint itineraries, ceremonies and events.
Monica was a key expert in the development and validation of the accredited Air Force Protocol Fundamentals Course, the only program of its kind in the government today. With a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and a diploma from the US Air Force Air War College, Monica is certified in International Protocol and as a Corporate Etiquette Consultant. She is also certified as a Children’s Etiquette Consultant by the Etiquette and Leadership Institute.
Monica lives in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida and is a huge asset for Wisdom Harbour’s school, corporate, and family subscribers. After all, if generals are required to learn from Monica…what might our children become with her instruction?