Meet Ted at the Crossroads…
Ted was a driven entrepreneur, juggling operations, strategy, sales—and, on some days, a 60,000-pound commercial trash truck. On one seemingly ordinary morning, a missed turn and a split-second decision nearly turned into a tragedy. What he chose in that moment—whether to back up blindly or take the longer, harder way around—became more than a traffic mishap. It became a life-altering metaphor.
That day, Ted learned something every dreamer eventually faces: The path to your goal isn’t always straight—and missing a turn doesn’t mean the journey is over.
Instead of giving up or doubling down on a bad move, he discovered a better way forward. From that hard lesson came a transformational framework that every entrepreneur, leader, and dreamer needs to know:
Reposition. Rebuild. Re-emerge. Realize.

Are you at a crossroads?
Let Ted’s story show you how to turn failure into fuel and setbacks into setups.
Jim Thought He Had It All Figured Out. Until Everything Changed.
One day, Jim was leading a thriving business. The next, it came to a grinding halt—and the dream he built began to unravel. He didn’t just lose momentum—he lost direction.
If you’ve ever found yourself in that space—stuck, uncertain, or suddenly off course—you’re not alone. What Jim discovered was that repositioning isn’t about bouncing back. It’s about building a case for a better path forward.

In Shifting Gears in the Crossroads, you’ll learn the five essential steps that helped Jim—and can help you—move from disruption to direction:

Recognize the Need for Change – Identify the triggers that say, “It’s time.”

Assess the Current State – Get honest about what’s working… and what’s not.

Identify the Future State – Define what success looks like for you now.

Map Out a Plan to Get There - Layout one or two paths to get to the future state

Make the Right Choice, Commit to a path that aligns with your vision and values.
Jim’s story isn’t just a cautionary tale
What if your setback is really your setup?
Start your repositioning journey today.
What Do You Get Out of Reading Shifting Gears in the Crossroads?
This is more than a book—it’s a step-by-step guide to repositioning your life and career with clarity, purpose, and faith. Inside, you'll find the tools, encouragement, and structure to move from uncertainty to momentum.

Including a written vision statement, mission statement, and actionable goals across faith, family, fitness, and finances

Translate your past experiences into powerful, future-focused positioning

Capture a positive mindset that aligns your career direction with your life’s purpose

Accelerate your job search by identifying clear, personalized criteria for your next role

Stay motivated and encouraged through every stage of change

Refresh your faith and renew your commitment to the deeper calling on your life

Connect with insiders and open doors to new roles or industries

Step by Step process with downloadable, customizable tools

Learn networking strategies that uncover real opportunities faster
If you're standing at a crossroads—this book will help you map your next step, and walk it out with confidence
Resources
Four Phase Key Indicators
Our Top Distributors
The Data Behind the Story - Why Planning and Goal Setting Matter More Than Ever
Career transitions are no longer rare—they’re the norm.
- Over 6.4 million Americans are actively job searching
- The average job lasts just 3.8 years—and falling
- Unexpected change can feel like the death of a dream
But here’s the good news: there’s a better way forward—and it starts with a plan.
Decades of research by goal-setting experts Edwin Locke and Gary Latham show that people who set clear, challenging goals consistently outperform those who don’t.
What the Research Says:
- 90% of studies show that specific and difficult goals lead to higher performance
- Effect sizes ranged from 0.42 to 0.80—a moderate to large impact on success
- Goal setters show greater motivation, effort, persistence, and focus
- Vague goals like “do your best” fall short—clarity creates action
Shifting Gears in the Crossroads gives you the structure, mindset, and tools to set a new course—and succeed.
Impact of Shifting Gears – Inspiring Transformations Through Every Page
Darren Cochran
Aerospace & Defense Executive | Colonel (Ret), U.S. Air Force
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Darryl for the past couple of years and have witnessed his rare ability to connect faith, purpose, and leadership in a way that transforms others. In Shifting Gears in the Crossroads, he distills timeless truths for navigating challenge and change. Truths that resonate whether you’re leading a squadron, a business, or your family. His approach to servant leadership is rooted in humility, guided by faith, and anchored in purpose. Darryl reminds us that real leadership isn’t about position -- it’s about influence, integrity, and impact.
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Greg and Laura Byrne
Couples Group Members
Members
When we first joined the couples’ group under their leadership, we never imagined that we were actually becoming part of a true New Testament “church” described by the first-century apostles in their epistles. The Hefflines’ group (our group) has been for us the authentic church led by the two of them: humble servant-pastors, masterful, submitted teachers of the Word of God, gracious hosts of their home, and sacrificial friends who stand beside grieving, hurting members. In every gathering, they have led us in worshipping, honoring, and seeking our Savior Jesus Christ. We are grateful beyond words to follow their leadership and to call them dear friends. They are the picture of John 15: 12-13. John 15:12-13 (NKJV) 12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.
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Wade & Beverly Wootton
Couples Group Members
Members
"It’s not often you come across a leader who exemplifies integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment like Darryl Heffline. As one of the original couples in the group Darryl has faithfully led, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing his leadership up close. Darryl has consistently fostered an environment of trust, growth, and meaningful connection. His leadership goes beyond simply facilitating discussions — it’s about creating a space where couples feel safe to share, learn, and evolve together. Alongside his wife Dana—who not only supports him in leading our couples’ group but also leads a women’s Bible study with wisdom and grace—Darryl has consistently modeled what servant leadership looks like in everyday life. Together, they form a powerhouse of relational and spiritual wisdom and guidance, and it’s been incredible to see how they both impact lives in such positive and meaningful ways. If you’ve experienced Darryl’s leadership in person, you know that his wisdom is both rooted in experience and grounded in faith — and his book is no different. We wholeheartedly endorse Darryl Heffline — both as a leader and as an author. His work has profoundly impacted our lives, and we are confident it will do the same for many others."
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LJ Stargardt
Director, Aerospace Defense Aviation & Space (ADAS)
Alvarez & Marsal
“The principles in Shifting Gears in the Crossroads changed the trajectory of my life. As someone who walked through a major career transition, Darryl’s framework gave me the clarity, courage, and direction I needed to move forward with purpose. I didn’t just read these ideas—I lived them. And I’m proof that they work.”
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Eric Jjombwe
Young Adult Group Member
Darryl’s Mentee
Being part of Darryl and Dana’s young adult group was a meaningful season for me, but it was the mentorship I received from Darryl—rooted in the principles from Shifting Gears in the Crossroads—Repositioning Your Life and Your Career to Rebuild, Re-Emerge and Realize Your Dream that made a lasting impact. Working through ideas like setting a clear vision and mission, while learning how to balance the four foundational areas of life—faith, family, fitness, and finances—helped me gain much-needed clarity. That process brought focus to my decisions and gave me greater confidence in the direction I’m heading. The framework from the book has helped me reposition both my life and my career with purpose.
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Rachael & Hearth Thomas
Young Adult Group Members
Members
Darryl is a faithful Christ follower, gracious leader, and a loyal friend to many. No matter what challenges you may be facing today, we are confident his wisdom and guidance will leave a profound impact, just as he has done in our own lives. We strongly believe Shifting Gears in the Crossroads will empower you, both spiritually and in the workplace, in ways you never could have imagined.
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Hal and Linda Partenheimer
Couples Group Members
Members
Darryl’s Scriptural knowledge, inspirational Bible study leadership, and passion for prayer mark him as a powerful Kingdom ally in today’s world. Many men are either a leader in their faith or in the marketplace. Darryl is one of the rare ones who excels in both. Being an executive in the corporate arena for many years, I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of his new book where his faith and his business acumen intersect providing unparalleled guidance many have been searching for.
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Tim McDermott
Former President KSBJ
CPA
“I’ve known Darryl most of my life, and I’ve seen his steady faith and heart for people through every season. “Shifting Gears in the Crossroads” reflects that same spirit. It’s a powerful guide for those facing change and needing a reminder that God’s not finished with their story.”
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Don Kingston
Glasfloss Industries
Retired CEO
“Shifting Gears in the Crossroads” is exactly what today’s professionals need—clear steps, strong faith, and honest encouragement. Darryl’s voice is authentic because he’s walked this road himself. I couldn’t recommend it more.
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Carey A. O’Connor
Glasfloss Industries
Board Member
“Shifting Gears in the Crossroads” is a thoughtful, practical resource for professionals navigating uncertain transitions. Darryl offers both structure and inspiration, drawing on real-life experience with clarity and heart. It’s the kind of guidance that meets people where they are and helps them move forward with purpose.
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John Collins
Hayward Holdings, Inc.
SVP and CCO
Darryl Heffline is the real deal. His book, Shifting Gears in the Crossroads, is a valuable resource for anyone navigating personal or professional change. Having worked with Darryl for years, I can personally vouch for his insights and recommendations, which are not just theoretical but proven, practical tools I’ve seen him put into action and yield impactful results.
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Ron Draper
Textron Aviation
President & CEO
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Darryl and watching him navigate life and leadership with integrity and resilience. This book is a genuine reflection of who he is—thoughtful, strategic, and rooted in purpose. A timely resource for anyone at a career or life crossroads.
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Terry Sullivan
BuzzPro
Founder
Darryl Heffline’s “Shifting Gears in the Crossroads” feels like a warm conversation with a mentor who truly understands life’s transitions. Through heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, Heffline shows readers how to turn challenges into opportunities. Jim’s journey, in particular, is a relatable and inspiring example of finding purpose after setbacks. What makes this book special is its focus on balance—faith, family, fitness, and finances—all woven into a clear, actionable framework. Heffline’s guidance is both encouraging and empowering, reminding us that every crossroads is a chance to grow. For anyone standing at life’s crossroads, this book offers more than just advice, it’s a source of comfort and motivation. Darryl Heffline’s words will inspire you to embrace change with courage and step into the next chapter of your life with insights and confidence.
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Bob Tiede
LeadingWithQuestions.com
CEO
We’ve all been there realizing that where you are is no longer where you’re meant to be. But how do you bridge the gap between your current reality and your desired future? Are you ready to release the security of your present role—where, at best, you’re merely tolerated—and set your sights on a new position where you can truly thrive? In his new book, “Shifting Gears in the Crossroads,” Darryl Heffline offers a clear roadmap to help you move from “Here” to “There.”
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Linda Swindling
Ask Outrageously
Practicing Professor
Have you ever had to negotiate a challenging life or career pivot? Shifting Gears in the Crossroads equips you to move forward with clarity, faith, and courage. Inside, you will find practical tools, grounded insight, and genuine encouragement—written by someone who’s walked the journey.
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Dianna Booher
Creating Personal Presence
Author
I’ve had the privilege of watching Darryl develop this book from concept to completion, and the result is both powerful and practical. “Shifting Gears in the Crossroads” offers a compelling roadmap for anyone navigating career or life transitions. It’s clear, insightful, and written with a servant heart.
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Jim Huling
The 4 Disciplines of Execution
Author
In “Shifting Gears in the Crossroads,” Darryl Heffline has written more than a book—he’s given us a life companion for navigating the seasons when everything feels uncertain. With a rare blend of candor, humility, and faith, he shares stories that remind us we are never defined by a setback, only by how we respond. His four-phase framework—Reposition, Rebuild, Re-Emerge, and Realize—is both practical and deeply personal, offering clear steps without losing sight of the heart work required to truly change our direction. I found myself nodding, reflecting, and—at times—pausing to take stock of my own journey. This is the kind of book you don’t just read; you carry it with you, returning to its pages whenever you face your own crossroads.
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