I’ve jumped through a lot of hoops over the years. Most of the time it felt like ticking one box just to get to the next, or doing what other people thought was best for me. I’ve got the credentials, the degrees, the certifications, the titles, the letters behind my name. None of that really matters to me anymore. I’ve spent time in boardrooms and on job sites. I’ve spoken when needed, handled investments, led teams, followed when it made more sense, and learned when to step out of the way. Over the years I’ve learned how to stay flexible without losing my footing. The tools change. The people change. The pressure comes and goes. But I keep showing up. If you’ve ever had to find your way through the mess and keep going anyway, you’ll probably feel right at home here.
I’ve always been drawn to what’s underneath the surface. Politics, history, and the way people move through the world were the kinds of things that stuck with me early on. I tend to notice patterns. I look for what people miss. When everyone rushes toward the loud and obvious, I usually slow down. Not because I’m trying to be different. It’s just how I’m wired. That way of seeing has shaped how I work, how I make decisions, and what I’m willing to walk away from.
Most of my time goes into growing W Diversified. I stay close to the day to day. I make decisions, solve problems, keep things organized, and make sure the operation runs steady. That includes adding new properties, keeping an eye on what’s already in motion, and staying ready for the right kind of deal when it shows up. I’m open to new joint venture partners. I look for people who value trust, shared work, and clear thinking more than hype. I write blog posts and record a weekly podcast. It keeps the ideas moving and clears the noise a little too. Most days I’m reviewing what’s in motion, thinking through next steps, and doing the small things that keep everything aligned.
I work best with people who are competent, who communicate clearly, and who bring reasonable expectations to the table. The kind of people who’ve built something before, or at least know what it feels like to carry weight that’s real. I look for clarity, follow-through, and the ability to stay steady when things get uncertain. I don’t expect anyone to have all the answers. I just want honest conversations, shared effort, and a willingness to stick with something that takes time. I’ve got a lot of patience for effort. Just not a lot for nonsense. If that sounds like you, we’ll probably get along just fine.
Ronald Willis – Newburgh, Indiana
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