Entrepreneur. Advocate. Changemaker.
Dr. Lamell McMorris is a nationally recognized leader at the intersection of business, justice, and social impact, and the best-selling author of The Power to Persist: 8 Simple Habits to Build Lifelong Resilience. In his book, Dr. McMorris shares the mindset and habits that fueled his rise from Chicago’s South Side to the national stage, offering readers a practical blueprint for turning challenges into opportunities and pressure into purpose.
What began as a book has evolved into a resilience movement. Building on the book’s mission, Dr. McMorris launched The Power to Persist podcast, where he sits down with changemakers, leaders, and innovators for candid conversations on resilience, justice, and transformative leadership. Each episode delivers real stories and actionable insights designed to help listeners navigate obstacles and lead with impact.
To further empower individuals and organizations, Dr. McMorris has developed workbooks for adults and students and workshops tailored for corporations, educational systems, and organizations. These initiatives equip participants with practical tools to build a resilient mindset when it matters most.
Dr. McMorris is the founder and CEO of Phase 2 Consulting™, a Washington, D.C.–based strategic advisory firm that helps corporations, institutions, and leaders build meaningful relationships with communities and key stakeholders. The firm specializes in aligning purpose with performance, strengthening corporate culture, and advancing responsible business initiatives. Under his leadership, Phase 2 Consulting™ has become a trusted partner to Fortune 100 executives, nonprofit leaders, and public sector decision-makers.
He is also the founder of Greenlining Realty® USA, a mission-driven development firm revitalizing communities across the U.S., beginning with his childhood neighborhood of Woodlawn, Chicago. Greenlining partners with municipalities to deliver mixed-use developments that drive economic impact and support underserved communities.
Dr. McMorris serves as Senior Vice Chair of the National Urban League Board of Trustees and remains actively involved with numerous nonprofit, academic, and youth-focused organizations. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Morehouse College, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University.
Guided by the belief that persistence isn’t just how we keep going; it is how we create lasting change, Dr. McMorris continues to use his platform to lead a growing movement for resilience that unites people, strengthens communities, empowers industries, and inspires us all to rise, lead, and persist.
Testimonials
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“If there’s one book you read cover to cover this year, let it be The Power to Persist.”
Michelle MillerAward-winning journalist • New York Times best-selling author • Co-host, CBS Saturday Morning
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“The Power to Persist is an inspiring and exciting read, which I strongly recommend to anyone who is seeking to elevate their skills and achieve positive results in the face of adversity.”
Adam SilverNBA Commissioner
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“The Power to Persist is a road map for anyone looking to overcome obstacles and elevate their personal lives or careers. Lamell uses a mix of his own inspiring stories and tried-and-true methods to help readers confront adversity and reach their full potential.”
David KohlerChair and CEO, Kohler Co.
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“Stocked full of practical tips for self-improvement, The Power to Persist is this year’s best book in personal growth.”
Randall WoodfinMayor of Birmingham
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“If you’re looking for a way to optimize your life, The Power to Persist is for you.”
Jordyn O. HudsonDocumentary filmmaker • Founder, CircleBlaq • Harvard Graduate School of Education
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“As an educator and public servant, I’ve spent my life helping others navigate challenges and realize their potential. The Power to Persist is a compelling and practical guide that does just that—equipping readers with the mindset and tools to thrive through adversity.”
Dr. Larry RiceFormer university president • Chief Engagement Officer, Northern Compass Consulting
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“The Power to Persist teaches you how to unlock the superpowers of resilience in a down-to-earth and relatable fashion.”
Marc H. MorialPresident and CEO, National Urban League
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“Mindset matters! In The Power to Persist, Lamell McMorris walks you through how to change your mindset to achieve powerful and meaningful results. His teachings take you from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can.’”
Dr. J. D. LaRockPresident and CEO, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE)
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“This well-written, timely book is great for readers at any stage of life. Whether you’re on the threshold of a new career or a seasoned veteran, you’ll find motivation in McMorris’s advice and encouragement to bring your best to all you wish to accomplish.”
John HudsonSenior vice president & chief external affairs officer • President, Entergy Charitable Foundation
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“The journey to success is filled with setbacks, but The Power to Persist is filled with smart and manageable ways to transform them into setups for success.”
Timothy MurphyVice chair, Mastercard
8 Simple Habits to Build: LIFELONG RESILIENCE
THE POWER TO PERSIST
Born from a single question I’ve been asked my entire career: How do you keep going?
The answer isn’t in the wins—it’s in the work. These 8 habits carried me through setbacks and successes, and they offer a path toward resilience for anyone facing challenges.
