Butch Meily has lived a remarkable life bridging cultures between the United States and the Philippines, carving out a career that spans public relations, corporate communications, and journalism. With stints at top PR firms and as VP of Communications for TLC Beatrice International, Meily’s storytelling prowess has graced publications like The Wall Street Journal and Black Enterprise. But perhaps his most defining chapter is the one he shares in his memoir, From Manila to Wall Street, chronicling his journey alongside trailblazing business magnate Reginald Lewis.
Meily’s story begins as an immigrant arriving in America in 1977, escaping the confines of a strict Catholic upbringing to embrace the freedoms of a new world. It was a time of transformation—personally and professionally—that led him to a serendipitous encounter with Lewis. From a windowless PR office to the boardrooms of billion-dollar deals, Meily found himself in the orbit of a man he describes as “the sun”—charismatic, commanding, and determined to leave his mark on history. Lewis was not only the first African American to own a global conglomerate, but he was also a mentor who exposed Meily to the realities of race, success, and sacrifice in America.
Through their journey, Meily gleaned hard-won lessons: success demands relentless effort, perceived limits must be challenged, and even the most powerful achievements mean little without connection. As he reflects now, it’s not the billion-dollar takeovers or champagne-filled boardrooms that define a life well lived—it’s family, love, and showing up for the people who matter. Meily’s tribute to Lewis reminds us that legacy is not just what we build, but who we bring along with us.
The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway
The most important thing in your life is being with your family and staying close to your loved ones. Because you're going to regret it if you don't talk to your kid, go to the movie with them, or watch their ball games. You're going to regret it someday. Stay close to the people you love because in the end, that's all you're going to have.
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