From the Publisher
"Catch as Catch Can is an inspiring life story. Dr. T shares his life story, growing up, overcoming many obstacles. I have known him for over twenty-five years as a friend, business partner, and an inspiring mentor. Thanks you George for sharing your journey—you have given so much to many."
Derryl O Benton
Chief Development Officer, Hmshost, Hudson, Dufry by Avolta
"George Tinsley, Sr. is an entrepreneurial genius who has demonstrated an exceptional ability to turn his visions into reality. His unwavering dedication to community service and uplifting others is truly commendable. George is not only a remarkable athlete and entrepreneur but also the embodiment of perseverance. Despite facing challenges along his journey, he has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination."
Karyn D. Bullock
Chief of Business and Economic Affairs, Choo Smith Youth Empowerment, Inc.
"George Tinsley is a true American rags to riches story. He was impoverished as a boy growing up in Louisville with his grandmother. He came to Kentucky Wesleyan College on an academic and basketball scholarship in 1965 with everything he owned in a single grocery bag. Tinsley took advantage of the opportunities during his college career. He earned the highest academic honor held by KWC students, 'The Order of Oak and Ivy' plus became a two-time All-American and three-time NCAA College Division Championship. From graduating in May 1969, success has defined George Tinsley for seven decades."
Roy Pickerell
Sports Information Director Emeritus and Special Assistant For College Relations, Kentucky Wesleyan College
"Mr. George Tinsley, Sr. (fondly known as Mr. T to those he mentors and inspires) is a resonating reminder that lasting success can be acquired by turning obstacles into opportunities. His origin story is the true original recipe for all who desire to translate their dreams into realities. Mr. T embodies the consummate teammate and professional.
No matter the industry or playing field, his mindset and unyielding integrity are invaluable blueprints for the driven businessman/businesswoman and devoted family man. Inscribed within the chapters of the book you will find the details of what truly set him apart from the common business mogul. It is his willingness to share his wealth of knowledge. Through his commitment to excellence and well-rounded achievements, he enriches the lives of those in his local community and global business network.
Mr. T—thank you for blazing the trail."
Brandon Richard "B.Rich"
The B.Rich Project, Inc.
"George Tinsley, Sr. is an embodiment of inspiration. His resilience, entrepreneurial genius, and unwavering commitment to the community has not only shaped his success but the success of countless others. He is a beacon of hope and determination, and he infuses that spirit in others, all while helping to unleash their potential to achieve their dreams and goals. He is in the business of empowering and building leaders through his numerous entrepreneurial endeavors. His life story is a testament to the power of perseverance and visionary leadership."
Lakecia Gunter
"George Tinsley, Sr. is widely respected as a successful entrepreneur, astute businessman, devoted family man, and passionate community leader. To be sure, these descriptors reflect the man and his accomplishments. But what makes George unique is his ability to make the inconceivable conceivable and the impossible possible. For George, 'obstacles' are always 'opportunities,' because George is fueled by his faith and grounded in his values, always leavened with empathy and a deep generosity of spirit. His life story is a testament to that fact."
Roseanna DeMaria
"George Tinsley Sr. is an inspiring figure who embodies resilience, exudes empathy, and conducts himself at all times with grace and dignity. Despite overwhelming odds, he was able to focus on core values and unconditional love while keeping a positive attitude. This has resulted in undeniable success, inspiring those wanting to go higher and farther; be it athletics, business, or, most importantly, putting family and friendship first."
Donny MacKenzie
Executive Director, Funding Florida Legal Aid (FFLA)
"George Tinsley, Sr. is a shining example of a man who remembers where he came from, knows exactly where he’s going, loves his family without condition, turns forbidding obstacles into golden opportunities, and always makes time to reach back and teach others how to succeed; not just in business, but in life."
Ronald J. Gomes
Vice President, Strategic Alliances, HMSHost (ret)
"The immensely inspiring life story of George Tinsley, Sr. is filled with life lessons that anyone would be well-served to follow. We must all play the cards we are dealt in life as best we can, and many of us begin with a poor hand. But attitude, heart, commitment, determination, and a relentlessly positive attitude can make it possible to rise to success in life from the most difficult of circumstances and to thrive not only in business but in being a good and decent person who makes their community and those within it better. This incredible but true story proves it. Everyone who reads this book should profit from George’s extraordinary example and be inspired to become better versions of themselves."
Stephen R. Senn
Peterson & Myers, P.A.
"George Tinsley, Sr. demonstrates what shining triumphs are possible—if we have the courage to believe in ourselves and our dreams. His loving commitment to family, unflappable demeanor, and innate dignity have inspired future leaders everywhere. Many will live more fulfilling lives by following his example.”
Terrian Barnes
"George Tinsley's latest book is a testament to his profound insight and unwavering commitment to excellence. His unique stories and perspectives enlighten and inspire, making this a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate life and business challenges to achieve their dreams."
Michael A. Stephens
General Counsel & EVP of Legal Affairs, Hillsborough County Aviation Authority
"George Tinsley, Sr. is an inspirational figure who embodies resilience and fortitude. Despite adversity in his life, he has succeeded and become a beacon of hope for many aspiring entrepreneurs. George is a true leader whose impact is profound, transformative, and highly motivating."
Michael Price
Senior Vice President, HMSHost by Avolta
"I have known George Tinsley for many years. He is a very impressive gentleman who has overcome adversity and become a successful business owner and a great family man. He is a true leader whose impact is profound, transformative, and highly motivating. He has inspired many to become successful in business and their own personal lives."
Barney Barnett
"George is a very polished individual and a captivating speaker with a contagious smile. He and Seretha have been blessed with amazing leadership skills and a strong work ethic. George positively influences everyone he meets. His book is heartwarming and very inspirational. You won’t be able to put it down."
Evan S. Pinther
"How do you create a superstar who gives back? Do such individuals actually exist? Are rags to riches stories really true? All of that is answered inside this incredible story of poverty, abandonment, compassion, and hope. If you’ve ever struggled, saw your dreams dissolve, been told to quit, because you’re not good enough, and think your story is over, read about this amazing athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, who overcame it all, lived the dream, and continuously gives back. Those of us who are lucky enough to know the man and his generous family can tell you that he lives it every day. For underdogs everywhere, devour this book!"
Stephen Giordano
President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County
"I have known George Tinsley for over forty years. I have watched his professional development as he moved from his early days at KFC as a manager to a multi-unit supervisor to a KFC franchisee. That was only the beginning, and he has built his businesses as a multi-franchise operator and more. George has always had a positive attitude and strong work ethic. He has worked hard for his success, and it is wonderful that he is sharing what he learned with others."
Don Parkinson
"Winner! Two words define that declaration: George Tinsley.
His is a success story lived by a child raised in a home without either a mother or a father present.
George did not even learn his real last name until his sophomore year in college.
Here is a ‘don’t shoot’ freshman college basketball player who finished his career with over 1,000 points, first-team All-American, three NCAA D2 Championships, and Tourney MVP in his Senior year. He became a pro player in the ABA. Upon his retirement, George joined the business world, first with KFC. George later branched into the fast-food business on his own.
He overcame a fire that destroyed his restaurant, but George purchased a van and took food to the people. This became a national trend. George W. Tinsley, Sr., was on his way to the top!
This is how you define a winner! George Tinsley."
Joel Utley
KY Wesleyan Broadcaster, 61 years (ret)
"Over the more than twenty-five years I have known George Tinsley, Sr., he has consistently embodied positivity and inspiration. His resilience, entrepreneurial genius, and unwavering commitment to the community have shaped his success and motivated countless others. George has mentored numerous individuals personally and professionally over the years and has been an enabler for them to have very successful careers and families! He is a beacon of hope and determination, and his life story and innumerable accomplishments are a testament to the power of perseverance and visionary leadership."
Jeff Yablum
CEO/Owner, Cedar Tree Restaurant Group, LLC
"George Tinsley has been a friend of mine since our high school days. We have developed a friendship that has become a true brotherly love. George has utilized his talents through the years to become one of the most renowned businessmen in his profession. I have witnessed his successful growth and development, willingness to share, and determination to give back to others who want to show his commitment to a successful lifestyle. His life story is a purpose-driven challenge to be the best and prove to others that obstacles can indeed be opportunities for achievement."
Garnett Phelps
"George Tinsley’s life story is truly inspirational. What makes Mr. Tinsley’s story unique—he actually 'Talks the Talk,' but he also 'Walks the Walk.' His principles in living will strengthen your foundation and calibrate your moral compass. His story will leave your soul with an enduring positive imprint.
Many successful people enjoy helping others learn life lessons to help us navigate this world with less of the bumps and bruises that life can bring. George W. Tinsley is a successful person who gives back so much to his communities and the people around him.
But George does not just give you advice; he lives his advice daily. His foundation is so strong that he weathers any storm and moves everyone toward their goals.
He follows his moral compass and rarely has a day that he does not positively impact someone around him. I have witnessed George in challenging business situations, and his ability to glean the positive out of any trauma is genuinely astounding. I have been fortunate enough to work with many successful people and can genuinely say George’s life is inspirational."
Howard Beckert
"George Tinsley, Sr. is an inspiring figure who embodies resilience. Despite adversity, he has succeeded and become a beacon of hope for many aspiring entrepreneurs. George is a true leader whose impact is profound, transformative, and highly motivating."
Bud Coleman (ret)
"George Tinsley, Sr. is an embodiment of inspiration. His keen ability to turn obstacles into opportunities shows resiliency and entrepreneurial genius. His commitment to the community has shaped his success and motivated countless others. He is an invaluable asset to anyone seeking excellence in life."
Brandon Giles
"It is a privilege and pleasure to write this testimonial for George Tinsley, Sr. He epitomizes a person who has achieved the 'American Dream,' going from poverty to a wealthy entrepreneur and civic leader.
He gives back to society in many ways. His motivational speaking empowers his subjects to achieve maximum levels by utilizing his basic creed of faith, family, and friends. George utilizes his intellect, self-discipline, and integrity to make the extraordinary seem normal.
He is an American legend!"
Coach Guy Strong
