The biggest mistake most of us make in the first half [of our lives] is not taking enough time for the things that are really important. The Halftime Institute helps you explore three stages of life:

The first half: This is the time when most people focus more on their careers and less on others (and other significant causes). Bob Buford talks about how his career (in the television business) took off. He had tremendous success, but had a “success panic” that made him stop and reevaluate his priorities. He also tells the touching story about losing his son, Ross. These (and other factors) lead him to the next stage.

Halftime: This is the time when you take stock of what you have accomplished thus far in your life and look for ways to move from success to significance. Bob compares it to halftime in sports (games like basketball and American football) that have a break during games. This break gives the teams a chance to evaluate their performance in the first half and chart ways to improve in the second half. It’s a chance to dig more deeply into what you believe and evaluate whether your life is heading in a direction compatible with your core beliefs.

The second half: The time when you can truly make a significant contribution to the world. In rare cases this happens early in life; however, with planning and effort, anyone can make it happen during the second half of their life.

The Halftime Institute is all about finding ways to be a leader in your own life, especially the second half, and helping you on a journey to making your life significant in ways you probably never imagined.

For more information on how the Halftime Institute can help you, contact us here.

Rhonda Kehlbeck
Rhonda spent her first half in education; her own (a Bachelors and Masters from Baylor and a PhD from Fordham University) and helping others with theirs as speaker, lecturer, teacher, and Professor at Dallas Baptist University. She is also an author of a book for parents that encourages reading and writing with children.

The Pittsburg, Texas native met her husband at church where he drew her name from a pool of 500 women to become her secret Valentine. More than 2 decades later, she and Keith have two daughters who are currently attending Oklahoma University.

As our Vice President of Admissions, many find their Halftime journey begins by interacting with Rhonda. Her nurturing and caring spirit helps people get enrolled into the Halftime Institute.

She is a 2013 Halftime Institute alumna and considers Psalm 86:11 her favorite verse: “Lord, tell me where you want me to go and I will go there. With all my heart, I will praise you.”




"I first read Bob Buford's book several years ago, but my Halftime really began when my youngest left for college. I knew then I didn't just want another job, but wanted to give back to God by making a significant impact for His kingdom.”


Read Rhonda’s Biz Journals article co-written with Bob Buford