We were lucky to catch up with Nathaniel McGhee recently and have shared our conversation below.
Nathaniel , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
Title: “Empowering Young Men: The Origin of DominateSTL’s Mission”
In the heart of St. Louis, a city pulsating with energy, promise, and yet, challenges, there was Nathaniel McGhee an individual with a shared vision: to empower young men to rise above adversity, discover their purpose, and become catalysts for positive change in their communities.
The journey began with a realization…. a realization that too often, young men, particularly those from marginalized communities, are labeled as statistics rather than seen for their immense potential. This realization ignited a spark, a burning passion to rewrite this narrative and pave a new path forward.
As mentors and leaders, we witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by many young barriers erected by society, and a lack of guidance and support. So it’s crucial that We as a community shed light on the youth’s untapped brilliance. While having an unconditional understanding of the overshadowed circumstances beyond their control they face.
Yet, amidst these challenges, you will find glimpses of flickers of hope, moments of resilience, and a hunger for something more. Which becomes driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of mentorship, education, and community.
As we embarked on DominateSTL’s mission—a mission to empower young men to discover their ‘why.’ We understood that true empowerment begins with self-discovery, with understanding one’s purpose and the driving force behind their actions.
Thus, Dominate STL was born—a beacon of hope, a sanctuary for growth, and a catalyst for change. Our mission is not just a statement; it’s a commitment—a commitment to nurturing a culture of cultural competence, to providing the tools and resources necessary for personal and collective transformation.
Every young man who walks through our doors is not just a participant; they’re a beacon of possibility, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Through mentorship, education, and unwavering support, we empower them to break free from the chains of limitation, to embrace their potential, and emerge as leaders in their own way.
Our mission is not just about empowering young men; it’s about igniting a movement—a movement fueled by passion, guided by purpose, and driven by a collective desire for a brighter, more equitable future.
Join us on this journey—a journey of empowerment, of transformation, and of hope. Together, we can rewrite the narrative, redefine what’s possible, and pave the way for a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
DOMINATE ON ME….DOMINATE ON 3!
1….2….3….DOMINATE
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Nathaniel Parker McGhee, your “EmpowerMentor”. Born and raised right here in the Show-Me State, I’ve been blessed with a lifetime of invaluable lessons, bestowed upon me by the remarkable men who’ve shaped my journey.
From my dad and grandfathers to coaches and mentors, they’ve all contributed to what I like to call my playbook(DOMINATESTL) a collection of wisdom, advice, and life lessons that have guided me through every challenge and triumph. And now, it’s my turn to share these treasures with you.
Growing up in Saint Louis, integrity and accountability weren’t just buzzwords. They were guiding principles engrained in every aspect of life. At Chaminade College Preparatory, I learned the true essence of being a man embracing mistakes, taking responsibility, and striving for excellence, no matter the odds. #ESTOVIR
As a student-athlete, I’ve had the privilege of learning from a diverse array of individuals, each offering their unique perspectives on success, resilience, and self-respect. Their insights became the plays in my playbook. The strategies I’ve honed to navigate the game of life with confidence and courage.
But the journey didn’t stop there. It led me to a profound realization, that being a leader isn’t just about winning. It is about empowering others to rise above adversity and define their own paths. This epiphany became the driving force behind DominateSTL, a platform dedicated to empowering young men to unleash their potential and DOMINATE life on their terms.
Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, DominateSTL is not just a program it’s a movement. It is fueled by the belief that every young man deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of background or circumstance.
My own experiences, coupled with the challenges and triumphs of my community came during the wake of the unrest in Ferguson/Florissant in 2014, I realized the urgent need for strong mentors and role models who could uplift and inspire the next generation.
So here I am, standing as a testament to the power of mentorship and the resilience of the human spirit. And as you embark on your journey, know that you’re not alone. You have a community of support, a playbook of wisdom, and a brother in me! Ready to cheer you on, guide you through, and celebrate your victories.
So let’s redefine what it means to be a man. Let’s DOMINATE and beyond. Your journey begins now.
With love, respect, and unwavering support,
Nathaniel Parker McGhee
#DOMINATESTL
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Resilience isn’t just a quality; it’s a fundamental aspect of the journey toward success. When I reflect on my path, one particular moment stands out as a testament to my resilience and determination to persevere against all odds.
As a sophomore in college, I made the bold decision to dive headfirst into entrepreneurship, founding my own company. Excited by the prospect of bringing my vision to life, I invested heavily in merchandise and software for an online curriculum. However, what followed was a challenging period that put my resilience to the test.
The financial strain of my investment quickly became apparent. Each month, the automated payments for the software service I’d purchased would plunge my bank account into the negatives, leaving me on the brink of giving up on my dreams. As a college student, the weight of this financial burden seemed insurmountable, and thoughts of throwing in the towel crossed my mind.
Yet, amidst the turmoil, I had a profound realization that would alter the course of my journey. Instead of viewing these setbacks as roadblocks, I chose to see them as stepping stones toward my ultimate goal. I recognized that every payment made
despite the hardship it brought, was a declaration to the universe that I was committed, resilient, and ready for success.
Years passed, and with each passing day, I continued to push forward! Fueled by unwavering determination and an unyielding belief in my vision. Eventually, my resilience paid off. That same software program that once threatened to derail my dreams became the cornerstone of my success, propelling me to the pinnacle of my industry.
Looking back, I realize that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from adversity but also about harnessing the power of setbacks to fuel your growth and propel you toward your goals. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, reminding me that with perseverance, anything is possible.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
As an adolescent, my dream was to make it to the NFL. Football was my passion and path from second grade through college graduation. I always believed that football would serve as my platform to achieve my ultimate goal of becoming a serial entrepreneur.
Then came 2020, a year that changed everything for everyone. The COVID-19 pandemic brought life to a standstill, halting sports, schooling, and routines. Suddenly, amidst the chaos, I found clarity. I realized there was more to life than just football.
I faced a pivotal decision as I approached the end of my college eligibility. Should I pursue my childhood dream, play one more year, and give the NFL a shot? It was a daunting choice, one that challenged the narrative I had crafted for myself over the years.
Ultimately, I made the decision to pivot. While it was scary to veer from the path I had envisioned, I knew deep down that it was the right choice. What seemed like one door closing was, in reality, another door opening, a new opportunity to chart a different course.
This shift in mindset set the stage for the journey I find myself on today. My program has made a significant impact in multiple St. Louis public school districts and has even expanded to a national chapter in Atlanta. It serves as a powerful reminder that closing one door doesn’t mean abandoning your dreams; it’s simply a step toward adaptation and growth.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, but it’s our ability to adapt and embrace change that ultimately defines our success. So, as you navigate your own journey, remember to keep an open mind and be willing to pivot when necessary. After all, sometimes the greatest opportunities lie behind the doors we least expect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dominatestl.com
- Instagram: DOMINATESTL
- Facebook: DOMINATESTL
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathaniel-nate-mcghee-2ab441227?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathaniel-nate-mcghee-2ab441227?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtBTZi2yto8