20: The Power of Mentorship: How Dr. Ernest McDonald Went From 6th Grade Dropout to Doctor

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dr. Ernest McDonald to explore the themes of leadership, decision-making, and overcoming fear and inadequacy. Dr. McDonald shares his remarkable journey from dropping out of school in sixth grade to earning a doctorate in pharmacy and becoming a Clinical Pharmacist at Largo Medical Center. Through honest reflections, he discusses the challenges he faced, including financial struggles, academic setbacks, and feelings of inadequacy, and how he found the courage to persevere. With the support of programs like Brother to Brother and mentors who believed in him, Dr. McDonald emphasizes the transformative power of community, mentorship, and asking for help. He highlights the importance of continuous learning, leveraging technology for growth, and building a strong support network. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of education, offering hope and inspiration for anyone striving to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about breaking barriers and making an impact. KEY POINTS:  [1:11] - Introduction to Dr. Ernest McDonald [02:25] - Dr. McDonald's early experiences at St. Petersburg College [06:42] - The pivotal role of the Brother to Brother program  [09:12] - Dr. McDonald's journey after SPC  [10:07] - The responsibilities and challenges of being a lead pharmacist [16:11] - The inner drive and determination that kept going  [23:39] - Dr. McDonald's advice to his younger self and the importance of overcoming fears [31:33] - Leadership style:The value of authenticity and willingness to learn [36:36] - What’s next? Dr. McDonald’s vision the help the community QUOTABLES:  "Don't run from fear. Lean into it. Overcome it." – Dr. Ernest McDonald "Individuals do not rise to the level of their expectation, they fall to the level of their training." – Dr. Ernest McDonald "Your fear and your lack of knowing, of feeling inadequate, don't let it feed into that, because it's an endless pit." – Dr. Ernest McDonald GUEST RESOURCES: Dr. Ernest McDonald  LinkedIn | @ernest-mcdonald-pharmd-cph-bcps RESOURCES: St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege  IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC  LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college  X | @spcnews  Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/