Kendall spent 40 years building a meaningful career in IT, including over two decades as a Chief Information Officer, where he led global teams and developed people with a focus on positive change. His journey began in the U.S. Air Force, shaping the discipline, integrity, and commitment that guided his leadership. After retiring from the corporate world, he felt called to invest more directly in people, leading to the creation of The Layman Company, where he now helps individuals grow, discover their strengths, and pursue greater fulfillment.
As the author of The Gooder Life in Layman’s Terms, a Maxwell Leadership Certified Coach, Speaker, and Trainer, and a Ramsey Financial Coach, Kendall brings a blend of real-world experience and practical wisdom to his work. Grounded in Thankfulness, Humility, and Respect, his mission is simple: to help others become a little better today than they were yesterday.
Kendall lived in Dallas, Tulsa, and Tucson before returning to his native Northwest Arkansas to raise his children. Maintaining a balance between work and family has always been of utmost importance. He and his wife Kathy have a passion for building, camping, and especially for spending time with their young grandchildren; all of which keep their lives in proper perspective.
In a world racing toward the artificial, where algorithms shape decisions and automation replaces connection, something essential has been quietly slipping away—authenticity. People are surrounded by information, yet starving for wisdom. They’re more connected than ever, yet feel increasingly unseen. Leadership has become louder, but not always better. And in the noise of modern life, many have forgotten what it feels like to be guided by someone who is genuinely invested in their growth.
Kendall saw this shift happening long before it became a cultural conversation. After 40 years of leading global teams, developing people, and navigating the complexities of corporate life, he recognized a truth that technology could never replace: people don’t follow titles—they follow influence. And the most powerful influence is always authentic.
That realization became the foundation of his signature coaching philosophy:
Authentic Influence™ — The AI the world actually needs.
While the world chases artificial intelligence, Kendall created a different kind of AI—one rooted in character, clarity, and human connection. Authentic Influence™ is a coaching method built on the timeless attitudes that make life “gooder”: Thankfulness, Humility, and Respect. These aren’t buzzwords. They’re the core of how Kendall leads, teaches, and helps people grow.
Discover how to expand your influence, deepen your self-awareness, and lead with purpose.