Interviews & Media (Click for more video and audio clips) 

Book Reviews:

“A renewed emphasis on “family values, integrity, leadership, and accountability,” the author suggests, offers the promise of a new dynamism to help propel the American spear into the future.” 

Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“The author's writing style is natural and enjoyable, emphasizing the importance of family, venturing out to do new things, and defending our principles to take advantage of the freedoms we possess. Be the Weight Behind the Spear will inspire you to overcome obstacles and work on your personal and community growth, even in difficult times."

Diana Lopez, Readers’ Favorite Reviewer, 5-Star Review

“If it takes a village to raise a child, then it takes a country to make a hero. Be the Weight Behind the Spear, written by Dr. Josh McConkey, is a memoir written to encourage every American to contribute to the strengthening of the nation, to support the nation in any capacity they can and at every level they find themselves at—to be the weight behind the spear….. I rate this memoir five out of five stars because of the inspiring and profound insights it offers into the author’s life and experiences.” 

Joy Wendy, Online Book Club, 5-Star Review

"McConkey's book is an encouraging and inspirational title for sure. Readers will find it well written and a real call to think about our communities needs beyond our own. Some chapters are truly inspirational......" 

2024 Benjamin Franklin Awards

“A Great Read! Enjoyable and informational stories illustrating importance of leadership and teamwork.” 

M.C., Amazon, 5-Star Review

About the Author:

Dr. (Colonel) Josh “Blackjack” McConkey is a Pulitzer Prize–nominated author, decorated combat veteran, board-certified emergency physician, and nationally recognized leadership expert dedicated to inspiring the next generation of American leaders. 

Drawing on more than two decades of military command, emergency medicine, and community service, McConkey brings a unique perspective to leadership, resilience, and mentorship. His acclaimed book, Be the Weight Behind the Spear, challenges business leaders, educators, parents, and mentors to recognize their critical role in shaping America's future.

 Expanding that mission to younger audiences, McConkey created the award-winning Little Leaders children's book series, beginning with The Heart of a Leader, a heartwarming story that teaches children the importance of kindness, courage, teamwork, and perseverance. A passionate advocate for youth leadership development and founder of the Weight Behind the Spear Foundation, McConkey believes that America's greatest resource isn't what we have—it's WHO we have.

 Through his books, public speaking, and nonprofit work, he champions one powerful message: Life is a team sport, and great leaders are built by the people who stand behind them.

Follow me on social media at the links below or contact me via email at: PR@joshmcconkey.com 

and my business website: www.joshmcconkeyforamerica.com 

Josh McConkey is a member of the United States Air Force Reserves.  Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the United States Air Force Reserves, Department of the Air Force, or the Department of Defense.  All factual military information and photographs are provided in conjunction with other non-military biographical data.