Stop Waiting for the Right Time—How Preparedness Unlocks Your Potential | Life Lesson Quotes — Rodney Carpentier | Ep 223

In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I’m joined by Rodney Carpentier—a 20-year law enforcement professional turned mystery writer—who shares the family mantra that has shaped his life: “Early is on time, on time is late, and late is not acceptable.” Rodney opens up about inheriting this saying from his father (and likely generations before), its practical impact on his approach to work and creativity, and how losing both parents at a young age fueled his desire to seize every opportunity. We dive into how this mantra became more than just punctuality advice—it’s about being truly prepared for life, not letting regrets accumulate, and not waiting for a “perfect” moment to pursue your dreams. Rodney reflects on incorporating the mantra into his crime trilogy set in the Catskill Mountains, the role of preparedness in his journey from policing to publishing, and how listeners can reframe feelings of “lateness” into fresh starts. If you need a nudge to stop waiting and start taking action—no matter your age or stage—Rodney’s story will inspire you to show up ready for possibility.Connect With Rodney CarpentierWebsite: https://rlcarpentierwriter.comNewsletter: https://rlcarpentierwriter.com/newsletter-signupIf Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/joinIf the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhqWant to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdomChapters00:00 Introduction And Welcome00:23 Meet Rodney Carpentier00:42 Connection To The Catskills01:07 Rodney’s Quote And Mantra01:21 Meaning Behind The Quote01:57 When The Quote Became Real02:19 Using The Mantra In Life02:51 Reflection On Preparedness04:35 Staying Ready For Opportunities05:08 Impact Of Family And Loss06:14 Embracing The Mantra Fully07:06 Writing And Life’s Surprises08:23 Becoming A Writer Later In Life09:15 Overcoming Regrets And Acting Early10:34 The Consequences Of Being Late11:40 Why “Early” Opens Doors12:10 When It Feels Too Late13:07 Turning Lateness Into Opportunity14:23 Questions For Listeners15:10 The Mantra In Rodney’s Writing15:47 Preparing For The Next Chapter16:34 Rodney’s Next Steps18:00 About The Trilogy19:29 Where To Find Rodney And His Books20:14 Episode Wrap-Up And Thanks