Another Assignment, Another Opportunity

Stardate 11.02.2026

Yesterday was a good day to be home.

I attended worship at my home church and later stopped by the recreation center near my home to check on the progress of our new pickleball courts. The asphalt is down. Seeing the progress on a project that will benefit our community was encouraging.

Late in the day, I received word that my next travel assignment had been approved. My bags were already packed in anticipation of the final project of a busy year.

This morning, my wife drops me off to pick up my rental vehicle. I'll be heading to Wisconsin for the final store opening of 2026.

Every assignment has taught me something new. I've met wonderful people, helped develop new teams, and shared what I've learned along the way. Each new location brings opportunities to make a difference in someone's life.

I've also been concentrating on developing new habits that support my overall health and wellness. Traveling can disrupt familiar routines, so I've been working on making healthy choices part of my everyday life, wherever I happen to be. Those habits are becoming an important part of my daily mission.

A message from my blog partner at DoNotAge® brought another reason to be thankful. He'll be traveling to the United States to help establish a new warehouse so the company can better serve its American customers.

I'm grateful for the encouragement and support they've given me throughout our partnership. They've also been encouraging me to develop my video skills. I've been giving that some attention, and I can see how this ability will benefit many areas of my life. Writing has been part of my daily routine for years. Video gives me another way to share the good things happening around me.

Another trip is on the horizon. I'll be traveling to San Diego to reconnect with my pickleball board and our national sponsor, Pickleball USA. They've invited us to join them in box seats during a professional pickleball tournament. I'm looking forward to spending time with the board, strengthening those relationships, and enjoying some outstanding pickleball.

There are plenty of reasons to give thanks as November begins.

Yesterday I was home, worshiping with my church and checking on the progress of our community courts. Today I'm preparing to work alongside another team in Wisconsin. Other opportunities are already taking shape.

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) offers a simple reminder:

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."

I have another assignment ahead of me. I'll bring what I've learned, remain open to new lessons, and trust God with the opportunities that come my way.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Another assignment, Michael? I hope you remembered to pack everything this time."

Spock: "Doctor, his preparations suggest a high probability of success. His willingness to continue learning is particularly encouraging."

Bones: "Well, let's hope Wisconsin is ready for him."

Some journeys require a suitcase. Others require a willingness to keep growing. I'm grateful that God continues to give me opportunities to do both.

Live long and prosper! 

Live Long and Prosper: A Journey Into Longevity Research

Stardate 11.01.2026

When I began researching material for my book, Live Long and Prosper, I wanted to learn more about the science of healthy aging. That journey eventually introduced me to DoNotAge®.

The company caught my attention through its connection to longevity research. As I learned more, I became increasingly interested in the quality of ingredients used in scientific studies. Researchers depend on reliable materials to conduct meaningful work. That raised an important question for me: Who is behind the products I choose, and what do I know about the company providing them?

I decided to learn more and eventually became a DoNotAge® customer. I have been purchasing products from the company for years.

In September, I traveled to London to attend a DoNotAge® longevity conference. The experience gave me an opportunity to meet people working in the field and learn more about the research and the company's involvement in supporting it.

Michael Mulligan with Alan Graves, founder of DoNotAge®, at the September 2026 longevity conference in London.

I came home with a deeper appreciation for the work taking place in longevity research. I also developed a stronger connection with a company whose mission aligns with an interest that has been part of my writing for many years: extending healthy lifespan for as many people as possible.

Over time, my relationship with DoNotAge® developed into a partnership. That gives me an opportunity to share what I have learned with readers who may be exploring the same questions about healthy aging.

November brings a major DoNotAge® sale, making this a good opportunity to explore some of the products discussed in my book. If you have been curious about a particular ingredient or product, you may find this a convenient time to learn more and consider whether it belongs in your own approach to healthy aging.

I encourage everyone to do their homework. Dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are marketed. Read the available information, understand what you are purchasing, and consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate. Each of us is responsible for making informed decisions about our health.

I continue to purchase directly from DoNotAge® because I value the company's connection to longevity research and my experience as a customer.

Partner Disclosure: I am a DoNotAge® partner. I may receive compensation when readers make purchases through my partner link. I have been a DoNotAge® customer for years and am sharing this opportunity based on my personal experience and interest in longevity research.

Explore DoNotAge® here:

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Use discount code LLAP (Live Long and Prosper) at checkout for the available partner savings. Please check the company's website for the current sale details and discount terms.

Writing Live Long and Prosper gave me a reason to ask questions about the years ahead. The London conference gave me an opportunity to meet some of the people pursuing answers through research. I look forward to continuing to learn and sharing that journey with others.

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 92:14 (NIV):

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”

I find encouragement in those words. There are still opportunities to grow, contribute, serve others, and make a difference at every stage of life. I hope my own journey encourages someone else to keep learning and take an active interest in the years ahead.

Join me here:
https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “Spock, I suppose the Captain has decided that living long requires a little homework.”

Spock: “An entirely logical pursuit, Doctor. His research appears to have taken him all the way to London.”

Bones: “Just remind him that there's more to life than reading ingredient labels.”

I have to agree with Bones on that last point. The years ahead are filled with opportunities to enjoy the people we love, serve our communities, and discover what God still has planned for us.

Live long and prosper. One day at a time.

Luuuucy, I'm Home

Stardate 10.31.2026

There's no place like home.

My Lawrence assignment came to an end yesterday. After several demanding days helping a new location welcome its members, it was time to pack up, return the rental car, and head home.

The previous day had been especially busy. We spent the day signing up 301 new members, keeping everyone moving, and helping the new location get off to a strong start. It was a nonstop day, and I was ready for some rest.

A colleague made my hotel checkout especially memorable. She had picked up a copy of the Lawrence Journal-World hot off the press and dropped it off for me. We had made the front page!

The headline read, "It's Finally Here."

The cover photograph was a drone shot from above, showing a full parking lot at the new location. What a wonderful image of the community's response!

I read the article during the drive home. It was a special reminder of the people who worked together to bring the new location to life. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to be part of the team.

There was another kindness waiting for me. My rental car location approved my request to waive the one-way drop-off fee. That allowed me to return the vehicle in Lawrence and ride home with my wife in her car. She drove while I caught up on some much-needed sleep.

Coming home also meant taking care of something special.

Our daughter had given me a personalized license plate for Lucy. She checked the availability and discovered that Luuuucy was available. Yes, that's Lucy with four U's!

I made a quick visit to the motor vehicle department and picked up the personal plates. Lucy now has a new identity, courtesy of a thoughtful gift from our daughter.

Today's title is a little tribute to Lucille Ball and the television classic I Love Lucy.

Luuuucy, I'm Home!

This morning, I'll be driving Luuuucy to cardio tennis. It's good to be home and back in familiar routines.

Psalm 121:8 (NIV) reminds me:

"The LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."

Thank you, Jesus, for safe travels, thoughtful people, family, and the many blessings tucked into an ordinary day.

I'm home. And I'm grateful.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

---

Captain's Addendum

Bones: "Spock, I believe our Captain has finally returned to familiar territory."

Spock: "Indeed, Doctor. Although the vehicle appears to have acquired an unusually large number of vowels."

Bones: "Four U's? I suppose that's one way to make a homecoming memorable."

Sometimes the best parts of a journey are the people who help us along the way. Today, I'm grateful for family, colleagues, and the simple blessing of coming home.

Live long and prosper.

A Final Stop Before Heading Home

 Stardate 10.30.2026

There is one more stop on today's schedule before I begin the journey home.

My assignment away from home is coming to an end. This morning, I'll stop by the store to say goodbye to Kayla, our general manager. We've spent the past several weeks working toward the opening of a new store, and yesterday we celebrated that milestone with a ribbon cutting.

The mayor welcomed our new members. Kayla had the honor of cutting the ribbon, and I had the opportunity to watch a team bring months of preparation to life.

I've enjoyed getting to know the people who make this operation work. My role has been to share some experience, encourage new team members, and lend a hand wherever needed. Every day brought an opportunity to connect with someone new.

This morning, I'll have a few minutes with Kayla before checking out of the hotel. Then I'll point the car toward home.

I'm looking forward to being with my family again. There is something special about returning home after an extended assignment. The familiar surroundings and the opportunity to spend time together are gifts worth appreciating.

Psalm 126:3 offers a beautiful reminder:

"The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." — Psalm 126:3 (NIV)

I have plenty of reasons to be thankful this morning. Lawrence has been a good chapter in this ongoing adventure.

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Your assignment is concluding, Captain. One final visit remains."

Bones: "And I'd say a little time at home is a mighty fine prescription."

Spock: "Agreed, Doctor. The next mission will arrive soon enough."

Sometimes the most meaningful part of an assignment is the people we meet along the way. I'll carry those connections with me as I head home.

Thank you, Jesus, for another opportunity to serve, learn, and encourage others.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Live long and prosper!

Mayor of Lawrence Welcomes New Members

Stardate 10.29.2026

I was up early this morning to witness a special moment in Lawrence. The mayor welcomed our new members just before our general manager, Kayla, cut the ribbon to officially open our new store.

Some members had camped out around midnight, hoping to be first in line for the new deals. By the time the ceremony began, Chamber of Commerce representatives and community members had gathered to watch.

I felt great joy in my heart as I watched everything unfold. Senior members of our team were on hand to thank the new members for their support. There was something special about seeing the community come together to welcome a new business and the people it serves.

I would like to thank the mayor, the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, and the entire community for embracing us so warmly. Your welcome has made this assignment memorable.

Once the ribbon-cutting ceremony was over, I joined my wife for breakfast. We're planning a relaxing swim at the aquatic center before my official shift begins.

Life has a wonderful rhythm when we take time to appreciate the milestones and the people who share them with us. I'm grateful for this morning and the opportunity to be part of something new.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1 (NIV)

Captain's Addendum

Bones: “A ribbon cutting, a community celebration, and breakfast with his wife. I'd say the Captain is off to a pretty good start.”

Spock: “The evidence suggests that gratitude is an appropriate response to a successful morning, Doctor.”

Bones: “For once, Spock, I think we're in complete agreement.”

I am grateful for the welcome we've received in Lawrence. Today is another reminder to appreciate the people who make each new chapter meaningful.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Live long and prosper. 🖖

Someone Believed in Me

 Stardate 10.28.2026

Tonight, our leadership team will gather for a VIP party to thank everyone who helped bring a new location to life. It will be an opportunity to recognize the work behind the opening and celebrate the people who helped prepare the team for its next chapter.

For me, the evening carries a personal meaning. Kayla, our new general manager, played a pivotal role in my career. Seven years ago, she believed in me.

At the time, I was working as a trainer. Two of us carried that responsibility without the supervisor or manager titles held by the other trainers. We also lacked the official credentials.

Kayla encouraged us to become official trainers. She opened a door and gave us the opportunity to develop our skills through training and certification with our organization’s top trainers.

I remember being pulled away from an assignment where I was already helping train people. The work felt important, and I questioned why I needed to leave it for a three-day session. I thought I was there to evaluate new training ideas coming from corporate.

On the final day, one of our leaders played graduation music from a cell phone.

That was when I began to understand. The session had been designed to develop me. I was being prepared to become more effective in future training assignments.

Kayla had recognized an opportunity for me to grow. Her encouragement gave me a chance to learn skills I could carry into years of future work.

Seven years have passed since that training experience.

During that time, I’ve helped more than 10,000 members get started with us. I’ve also trained others to guide new members as they join our family. The organization continues to grow, and I’m grateful to play a part in helping people find their footing as they begin.

Being one of only two trainers without an official leadership title has shaped how I approach the work. I can serve alongside the people I’m training, sharing the experience of someone who has stood where they stand. I’ve noticed that employees often seem more relaxed when they’re learning from someone at their own level.

I know what it feels like to be given an opportunity before you have all the credentials. Someone has to see the potential and be willing to open that door.

Tonight, I’ll watch Kayla take the helm as general manager. I’ll also celebrate the new employees I’ve helped train as they begin their own journeys. The leadership team will have an opportunity to thank everyone who helped make this opening possible.

I’ll be thinking about the decision Kayla made seven years ago and the people who have benefited from the opportunity she gave me.

Psalm 90:17 (NIV) offers a simple prayer: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us.” I find meaning in those words as I look back on the people who helped shape my work and the opportunities to serve others that followed.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain’s Addendum

Spock: Michael, one act of encouragement can influence a great many lives over time.

Bones: Just remember to thank the person who opened the door, Michael. And make sure you leave room for the new crew to shine tonight.

Spock: A sound recommendation, Doctor. The next chapter is already beginning.

I’m grateful Kayla believed in me. I hope I can keep passing that belief along to others, one person and one opportunity at a time.

Six Minutes That Opened My Eyes

 Stardate 10.27.2026

Yesterday, a lunch break brought tears to my eyes.

Lina walked into the building. We had met previously in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, where we talked about her journey to the United States. She remembered that I had wanted to see a video about her life.

When I told her I still hadn't been able to find it, she handed me her iPad and invited me to watch the six-minute feature. She then walked away to spend time with her boss.

Within those six minutes, tears were running down my face.

Lina had been a young child when she fled Iraq with her family. Their journey took them through Jordan before they eventually reached the United States. Watching her story, I thought about the courage it takes to begin life again in a new country.

She also shared how she met the man who would become her husband. He fell in love with her and wanted to marry her. Together, they built a family and a life in America.

Lina came to America without speaking English and began her working life pushing carts. Through years of hard work, she advanced into leadership. Today, she is one of six area vice presidents in the Midwest division.

Her story brought back memories of my book, Live Long and Prosper. I wrote about three teammates who came to America as refugees from Moldova, Ukraine, and Cuba. Each built a life here and became an important part of the community around them.

I've spent much of my working life helping people grow. I enjoy seeing someone discover an opportunity and find a place where their talents can make a difference.

I told Lina I wanted to give her a collection of my five books. She is excited to receive them, and I look forward to continuing our conversation.

Yesterday, six minutes on an iPad gave me a deeper appreciation for a woman whose path has crossed mine.

A Team Gathering at Q39

Another highlight of this busy week was a team dinner at Q39 last night, arranged by Angie, our new membership marketing manager.

Approximately two dozen people gathered in a small back room. As more people arrived, we realized we needed additional space. The staff graciously accommodated our request to move to the outdoor seating area.

We ended up with more than thirty people together, including new employees, support staff, and managers. The cool weather added another memorable detail to the evening.

The photographs capture the gathering and the people who made it special. I appreciated the hospitality at Q39 and the opportunity to spend time with everyone.

Thursday's ribbon cutting is approaching, and the days remain busy. I'm grateful for the people I'm meeting and the opportunities to contribute during this assignment.

A Thought to Carry Forward

Paul offers this encouragement in Galatians 6:9:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

I keep thinking about Lina's journey and the determination it took to build a new life in America. I'm grateful she took those six minutes to share her story with me.

Sometimes, all it takes is a little time and a willingness to listen.

Join me here:

https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Captain's Addendum

Spock: Michael, your emotional response suggests that Lina's story made a considerable impression.

Bones: Six minutes, Michael. And you didn't even need a medical examination to discover you had a heart.

Spock: An observation that is both medically imprecise and entirely consistent with the evidence, Doctor.

I'm thankful Lina remembered our conversation and shared her story with me. I'll carry those six minutes with me as Thursday's celebration approaches, along with the memory of a team making room for one another at Q39.

Another day, another opportunity to listen.