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The Twenty: Elite Impact Education Platform

Don’s Thoughts

December 18, 2025   |   Volume 32

Gratitude and Courage to Chase

The holiday season has a way of bringing us back to what’s most essential. This year, I’m grateful for the gift of family gathered around the table, unhurried conversations, and the reminder that the best moments in life can't be scheduled—they happen when we create the space for them. 

As part of a yearly tradition, I re-read Mark Batterson’s Chase the Lion. What struck me most this time was the reminder that opportunities often come disguised as impossible situations. What looks like a barrier to you might actually be the doorway to something extraordinary.

I am also listening to the BEMA: Discipleship Podcast. I cannot recommend it enough as a way to study scripture. Thank you, Nick Stonestreet, for turning me on to it!

Let this season be a reminder that when we lead with gratitude, we find the courage to chase what matters most.

Mission Trip to Guatemala 

A few weeks ago, I traveled to Guatemala with my middle son, Alex, to celebrate another Transforming Futures graduation. Transforming Futures is a DLP Positive Returns Foundation signature partner providing education, vocational training, and vital resources to help at-risk youth break the cycle of poverty.

The students’ stories showed how hope grows when someone shows up—a testament to DLP’s commitment to the transformation of lives and communities.

While we were there, my wife, Carla, and our sons, Jacob and Donny, stayed behind so that Donny could try out for his middle school basketball team (and he made it!)

To learn more about the life-changing work of Transforming Futures and how you can get involved, visit:

Mission trip 1
Mission trip 2
Mission trip 3
20 stacked 2

DLP’s Vision Forward: Looking Ahead to 2026

Every January, the DLP Leadership retreat sets the tone for the year, but heading into DLP’s 20th anniversary, this one was different, sparking a fresh, energized vision for where we’re going next.

That’s why we’ve reimagined an all-new, interactive Investor Vision Day experience built exclusively for investors like you, live on January 16th.

Celebrate two decades of vision with us! 

The Greatest Gift of All

This Christmas, I’ll be spending time with my wife, Carla, and our three sons—the people who matter most to me. 

As we close out this year, I see God’s love reflected in faithfulness that grows through small, consistent acts of love and service, and I’m committed to living this even more next year.

Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones. I’m grateful you’re on this journey with me, and hope this season inspires us to live fully, love selflessly, and focus on what truly matters.

Your Voice Matters

Something I’ve found to be true through two decades of leading DLP Capital is that the best leaders remain committed to continuously learning and adapting. Don’s Thoughts is a space to share reflections on leadership, growth, and the lessons that continue to shape our work.

With that in mind, I’d love to hear your thoughts on what you want to see covered in the new year. I look forward to hearing your input!

Where I've Been

Location guatemala city

Guatemala

Palm beach

Palm Beach, FL

Location sarasota

Sarasota, FL

Amelia island

Amelia Island, FL (Thanksgiving Trip)

Greyfield inn cumberland island

Greyfield Inn, Cumberland Island, GA (15 Year Wedding Anniversary)

Location leadership retreat dec

Sea Island, GA (Leadership Retreat)

Jacksonville jaguar game

Jacksonville Jaguars Games - the wins just keep coming, go Jags!

Where I'm Going

Ashville north carolina

Asheville, NC

Location downtown st augustine

Downtown St. Augustine, FL

Location san antonio tx

San Antonio, TX

Houston texas

Houston, TX

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