Leading the pack
Dave Ursillo is a man of many talents: author, speaker and alternative leadership writer, and he believes in the power of the spoken word. A former politico under the Bush administration, Dave has now started his own blog DaveUrsillo.com which is focused on engaging and empowering men and women to take control and become leaders of their own lives.
Dave Ursillo is a 25-year-old former “politico” insider turned alternative leadership writer, author and speaker. He teaches men and women how to become “leaders without followers” in any walk of life by discovering a personal and profound sense of inner leadership.
At 23, Ursillo abandoned his fast-tracked career path in public service amid a crisis of identity and while battling depression. Opting for the unemployment line during a 100-year recession, Ursillo has built an expansive digital platform through a growing social media presence and as an avid writer, helpful personality and determined world-changer.
A true up-and-comer on the social media scene, Dave is quickly making a name for himself. He recently released his long awaited new book “Lead Without Followers“, of which you can download a chapter here. The ever eloquent Mr. Ursillo can also be found on Twitter here: @daveursillo
Determined to be a game-changer, Dave is a newcomer to the Yoga world having been introduced to it – oddly enough – via the P90X workout video series. We think Dave will quickly realize that aside from the obvious physical benefits, Yoga will give him the clarity and focus he needs make things happen.
Yoga for Men is glad to get Dave “On the Mat” and give him the support he needs.
The Interview
How did you find Yoga, or better yet, how did Yoga find you?
Dave: I first tried Yoga because it was actually a workout among the popular P90X infomercial workout program. The P90X Yoga workout is very tough, and more geared up to be a strenuous power workout than meditative, but it really helped introduce me to many poses and familiarize me with the practice.
Which other physical activities/exercise do you enjoy besides Yoga?
Dave: I’ve gotten more and more into running in the last year. I’ve never been an excellent runner, but I really enjoy the solitary nature of running and enjoy using it explore new areas when I am traveling. The longest I run is around 6 miles, usually shoot for a strong 4 miles, or even go for as little as 2 or 3 when I’m looking to just get outdoors and a quick workout in.
How do you feel that Yoga helps you perform better in those other physical activities, or in your day to day life?
Dave: The flexibility aspect of Yoga has been really effective in helping me curtail bodily injuries, especially from running. Beyond that, Yoga has helped me with increased muscle size and strength.
Which asanas (postures) do you feel are particularly beneficial to men and why?
Dave: Postures that open up the hips are probably the most strenuous, especially because it feels so stiff and unnatural. Hamstrings are also a typically tight muscle group. But all of those, in addition to back stretches, are great because they are so beneficial for increasing muscle flexibility and stretching. They are absolutely vital.
What would like more “average-Joe” men to know about Yoga?
Dave: If you can’t get past thinking that Yoga is too feminine or girly, check your ego at the door. It’s a great and challenging workout. Or, alternatively, go to Yoga classes to meet lots of girls — and you can thank me later.
What advice would you give to a guy who has never been to a Yoga class before and might be somewhat intimidated?
Dave: This is very fitting because I just went to my first Yoga class ever this past week! I had only ever done DVD workouts at home. I’d recommend going with a friend who is familiar with the studio, instructor, or style of practice. A good level of comfort takes the edge off. Hang in the back of the room so you don’t feel like anyone will be watching you, which also helps because you can see what others are doing if you get lost.
What personal or business projects are you currently working on that you want people to know more about?
Dave: I just published my debut book, LEAD WITHOUT FOLLOWERS: HOW TO SAVE OUR WORLD BY RADICALLY REDEFINING THE MEANING OF LEADERSHIP. As the title implies, the book is an alternative interpretation of what it means to be a leader with an inspirational edge that teaches you how to become an effective and influential leader in your everyday life — with, or without followers.
*photo courtesy of Dave Ursillo
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