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Be The Weight Behind The Spear
America is as divided-generationally and politically-as it has ever been. But the strength of America has always been its people. Our teachers, families, coaches, mentors, and volunteers have the opportunity to shape America's future. In doing so, they will not only improve individual lives, but also have the biggest impact on our national security. With 20 years of working in the trenches of America's emergency rooms and with 22 years of military service, Dr. (Colonel) McConkey combines lessons of leadership and poignant examples of how we can move Americans forward. Be the Weight Behind the Spear encourages a national dialogue on the importance of motivating all Americans to be the weight behind the spears of America's future leaders. Our national security and our future depends on it.
- GenresNonfiction
185 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2023
4 people are currently reading
2691 people want to read
About the author
Josh McConkey
1 book16 followersDr. (Colonel) Josh McConkey is an award-winning/best-selling author and esteemed Emergency Physician with over two decades of clinical experience. He served as a professor at Duke University and maintains Board Certification in Emergency Medicine. With 22 years of military service, Dr. McConkey now commands the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron in the US Air Force Reserves, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication.
Beyond his medical and military achievements, Dr. McConkey has been recognized for his contributions to education and community. He was honored in 2022 with induction into the Alliance, Nebraska Public Schools Hall of Fame and received the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from Chadron State College. A devoted father of three, his greatest passion lies in shaping future American leaders alongside his wife, Elsa, in Apex, North Carolina.
Dr. McConkey's family heritage—a blend of Cuban and Irish roots—adds richness to their family life, celebrated through cherished Cuban recipes passed down through generations. These traditions embody warmth, love, and a sense of security, reflecting his commitment to fostering strength and unity within his family and community.
Beyond his medical and military achievements, Dr. McConkey has been recognized for his contributions to education and community. He was honored in 2022 with induction into the Alliance, Nebraska Public Schools Hall of Fame and received the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from Chadron State College. A devoted father of three, his greatest passion lies in shaping future American leaders alongside his wife, Elsa, in Apex, North Carolina.
Dr. McConkey's family heritage—a blend of Cuban and Irish roots—adds richness to their family life, celebrated through cherished Cuban recipes passed down through generations. These traditions embody warmth, love, and a sense of security, reflecting his commitment to fostering strength and unity within his family and community.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
August 31, 2024
I appreciated Dr. McConkey’s honest and inspiring stories backing his mission to Be the Weight Behind the Spear. The book was engaging, well written and made me both laugh and cry. Our country is in desperate need of more positive rhetoric just as this. I will be sharing this book with all of my family and friends.
June 26, 2025
**I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway**
I’ve read nearly 200 books this year and this is my first DNF. (Made it to Chapter 11 before tapping out.)
I wish I could say this book was anything less than an exhausting exercise in self-indulgence, but it is exactly what it sounds like: yet another book written by a middle-aged wealthy white man with nothing new to say, but who thinks he deserves to add “published author” to his resume simply because he can afford to do so. Be the Weight Behind the Spear isn’t a book. It’s a thinly veiled, passive-aggressive letter to anyone who’s ever dared to cross the author, especially the former CEO he’s still clearly obsessed with.
First off, the metaphor he uses to argue against universal healthcare—“Bernie’s Burgers” (get it? Bernie?)—is so ridiculous that it’s almost too easy to dissect. The comparison between healthcare (a vital human necessity) and a burger chain (a luxury) is absurd, to say the least. The idea that everyone in America needs a burger, but some people want ketchup while others want mayo, ignores the fact that healthcare is not a fast food service. The simplification of a life-and-death issue into a burger analogy is laughable, reductive, and embarrassing, especially coming from someone who, despite his medical credentials, clearly lacks a fundamental understanding of how healthcare systems work.
The author uses his military and medical background to lure readers into a false sense of trust. His credibility as a doctor doesn’t mean he knows the first thing about the complexities of healthcare policy or the real challenges people face in accessing care. Instead, we’re subjected to an ego-driven rant from someone who clearly thinks his education and experience elevate his opinions to an untouchable pedestal, when in reality, they just serve to distract from his deeply flawed arguments.
The book’s tone is rife with self-aggrandizement. The author constantly brags about his supposed integrity, faith, and “noble” decision to lose millions of dollars in a business dispute with a “narcissistic” CEO. Yet, instead of taking responsibility or offering any real insight into his failures, he presents himself as the martyr—victimized by a world that, according to him, just doesn’t respect his “noble” stance. His entire narrative is a puffed-up sob story, dressed in self-righteous robes and crowned with the assurance that his misfortune is somehow divinely ordained. (It’s not.)
The irony is thick when he complains about the American legal system failing to protect him, and then, in the blink of an eye, he can afford to leave the country to escape it all. He loses millions and just up and flees—but in the very next chapter, he claims America is the last great bastion of freedom? Talk about cognitive dissonance. His blatant hypocrisy is mind-boggling.
The passive-aggressive resentment toward others runs deep, from the aforementioned CEO drama to his constant references to “evil” forces, like China and Russia. His “America is the last true bastion of freedom” rant is just another tired trope, using the pandemic as an excuse to bash other countries and, ironically, display his own narrow worldview. The way he casually distorts other nations’ responses to Covid as “overbearing government control” without a shred of nuance or context reveals how utterly out of touch he is with global realities.
A final example of lack of empathy and perspective, the author also casually and proudly uses the term “Neoprene Nazi” to describe himself with seemingly little care for how abhorrent such a title is. The concept is that he refused to prescribe opioids to patients so rigorously that he earned this name. It aged poorly and is never addressed just how harmful normalizing the use of the term “Nazi” is.
Ultimately, this book is an exercise in ego—an uninformed, misguided, and deeply unhelpful attempt to justify a life of privilege and self-righteousness. It’s the kind of book that leaves you wondering how an editor ever let it slip through the cracks.
I’ve read nearly 200 books this year and this is my first DNF. (Made it to Chapter 11 before tapping out.)
I wish I could say this book was anything less than an exhausting exercise in self-indulgence, but it is exactly what it sounds like: yet another book written by a middle-aged wealthy white man with nothing new to say, but who thinks he deserves to add “published author” to his resume simply because he can afford to do so. Be the Weight Behind the Spear isn’t a book. It’s a thinly veiled, passive-aggressive letter to anyone who’s ever dared to cross the author, especially the former CEO he’s still clearly obsessed with.
First off, the metaphor he uses to argue against universal healthcare—“Bernie’s Burgers” (get it? Bernie?)—is so ridiculous that it’s almost too easy to dissect. The comparison between healthcare (a vital human necessity) and a burger chain (a luxury) is absurd, to say the least. The idea that everyone in America needs a burger, but some people want ketchup while others want mayo, ignores the fact that healthcare is not a fast food service. The simplification of a life-and-death issue into a burger analogy is laughable, reductive, and embarrassing, especially coming from someone who, despite his medical credentials, clearly lacks a fundamental understanding of how healthcare systems work.
The author uses his military and medical background to lure readers into a false sense of trust. His credibility as a doctor doesn’t mean he knows the first thing about the complexities of healthcare policy or the real challenges people face in accessing care. Instead, we’re subjected to an ego-driven rant from someone who clearly thinks his education and experience elevate his opinions to an untouchable pedestal, when in reality, they just serve to distract from his deeply flawed arguments.
The book’s tone is rife with self-aggrandizement. The author constantly brags about his supposed integrity, faith, and “noble” decision to lose millions of dollars in a business dispute with a “narcissistic” CEO. Yet, instead of taking responsibility or offering any real insight into his failures, he presents himself as the martyr—victimized by a world that, according to him, just doesn’t respect his “noble” stance. His entire narrative is a puffed-up sob story, dressed in self-righteous robes and crowned with the assurance that his misfortune is somehow divinely ordained. (It’s not.)
The irony is thick when he complains about the American legal system failing to protect him, and then, in the blink of an eye, he can afford to leave the country to escape it all. He loses millions and just up and flees—but in the very next chapter, he claims America is the last great bastion of freedom? Talk about cognitive dissonance. His blatant hypocrisy is mind-boggling.
The passive-aggressive resentment toward others runs deep, from the aforementioned CEO drama to his constant references to “evil” forces, like China and Russia. His “America is the last true bastion of freedom” rant is just another tired trope, using the pandemic as an excuse to bash other countries and, ironically, display his own narrow worldview. The way he casually distorts other nations’ responses to Covid as “overbearing government control” without a shred of nuance or context reveals how utterly out of touch he is with global realities.
A final example of lack of empathy and perspective, the author also casually and proudly uses the term “Neoprene Nazi” to describe himself with seemingly little care for how abhorrent such a title is. The concept is that he refused to prescribe opioids to patients so rigorously that he earned this name. It aged poorly and is never addressed just how harmful normalizing the use of the term “Nazi” is.
Ultimately, this book is an exercise in ego—an uninformed, misguided, and deeply unhelpful attempt to justify a life of privilege and self-righteousness. It’s the kind of book that leaves you wondering how an editor ever let it slip through the cracks.
September 11, 2024
This book offers a compelling exploration of how we, as individuals, play a crucial part in shaping the future of the United States. The author urges us to become the driving force behind supporting the nation's youth, who bear a significant responsibility in safeguarding national security.
Before diving into this book, I hadn’t fully grasped how vital community involvement is in nurturing future leaders. The author emphasizes that the true power of a nation lies in its people, encouraging us to step up, volunteer, and mentor in order to contribute to America's prosperous future. The personal stories shared throughout the book illustrate what it truly means to stand behind and uplift the next generation.
Having finished the book, I now recognize my personal responsibility in empowering America's youth. National security, as the author points out, extends beyond the military—it’s something every citizen must actively support.
I am thankful to the author for this enlightening experience. Josh’s writing is straightforward, well-paced, and serves as a rallying cry for all Americans to take action. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.
Before diving into this book, I hadn’t fully grasped how vital community involvement is in nurturing future leaders. The author emphasizes that the true power of a nation lies in its people, encouraging us to step up, volunteer, and mentor in order to contribute to America's prosperous future. The personal stories shared throughout the book illustrate what it truly means to stand behind and uplift the next generation.
Having finished the book, I now recognize my personal responsibility in empowering America's youth. National security, as the author points out, extends beyond the military—it’s something every citizen must actively support.
I am thankful to the author for this enlightening experience. Josh’s writing is straightforward, well-paced, and serves as a rallying cry for all Americans to take action. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.
August 19, 2024
"Be The Weight Behind The Spear" by Josh McConkey is a compelling and thought-provoking work that dives deep into the fabric of American society, calling on the nation's citizens to become active participants in shaping the future. Drawing from his extensive experience in both emergency medicine and military service, Dr. (Colonel) McConkey delivers a powerful message on leadership and civic responsibility.
The book is not just about the traditional aspects of national security but expands the concept to include the everyday contributions of teachers, families, mentors, and volunteers. McConkey argues that the true strength of America lies in its people, and by motivating and empowering the next generation of leaders, we can fortify the nation's future. The author blends his personal experiences with practical advice, making the book both inspiring and actionable.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the interconnectedness of individual actions and national well-being. McConkey makes a persuasive case for why everyone, regardless of their role, has a part to play in securing America's future. His call for a national dialogue on leadership and motivation is timely, especially in a period marked by deep political and generational divides.
Overall, "Be The Weight Behind The Spear" is a must-read for anyone interested in leadership, civic engagement, and the broader implications of national security. McConkey's insights are not only relevant but crucial for understanding the pivotal role that everyday Americans can play in shaping the destiny of their country.
Happy reading ❤️✨
The book is not just about the traditional aspects of national security but expands the concept to include the everyday contributions of teachers, families, mentors, and volunteers. McConkey argues that the true strength of America lies in its people, and by motivating and empowering the next generation of leaders, we can fortify the nation's future. The author blends his personal experiences with practical advice, making the book both inspiring and actionable.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the interconnectedness of individual actions and national well-being. McConkey makes a persuasive case for why everyone, regardless of their role, has a part to play in securing America's future. His call for a national dialogue on leadership and motivation is timely, especially in a period marked by deep political and generational divides.
Overall, "Be The Weight Behind The Spear" is a must-read for anyone interested in leadership, civic engagement, and the broader implications of national security. McConkey's insights are not only relevant but crucial for understanding the pivotal role that everyday Americans can play in shaping the destiny of their country.
Happy reading ❤️✨
August 30, 2024
Amid unprecedented political and generational divides, one consensus emerges: equipping future leaders with essential skills is paramount. From business executives to parents, there's a shared commitment to preparing the next generation for success in an evolving world. This is something we can ALL agree on!
September 11, 2024
Through this book, the author is inspiring Americans to be a part of something that is making a difference. People can use their available resources for the betterment and development of those around them.
The author encourages us to support the youth of the nation so they can make a change. The author has also shared some examples of how to NOT be the weight behind America's spear. He has highlighted the importance of integrity. Josh has shared his work as an emergency doctor and how it made him have a profound respect for life.
Our services and the examples we set become the building blocks of our community and they become the weight behind the spear for the generations of Americans to come!
This is an eye-opening book. Before reading this, I hadn't realized how important our role is in shaping America's future leaders. By supporting the youth, we can make a positive impact on our national security. This is a well written book. I am grateful to the author for sharing his experiences with us. After reading this book, I am inspired to support others so I can be the weight behind the spear.
The author encourages us to support the youth of the nation so they can make a change. The author has also shared some examples of how to NOT be the weight behind America's spear. He has highlighted the importance of integrity. Josh has shared his work as an emergency doctor and how it made him have a profound respect for life.
Our services and the examples we set become the building blocks of our community and they become the weight behind the spear for the generations of Americans to come!
This is an eye-opening book. Before reading this, I hadn't realized how important our role is in shaping America's future leaders. By supporting the youth, we can make a positive impact on our national security. This is a well written book. I am grateful to the author for sharing his experiences with us. After reading this book, I am inspired to support others so I can be the weight behind the spear.
September 11, 2024
"Be The Weight Behind The Spear" penned by the author Josh McConkey is a non-fiction. In this book, the author has mentioned how coaches, volunteers, first responders, teachers, and family become the weight behind America’s spear every day. The special operators are supported by these individuals i.e. America's spears.
A good leader plays the role of a powerful motivator and inspires others to become the weight behind the spear in their families and communities. Through this book, the author wants us to recognize our role in developing the next generations of Americans.
This book inspires us to volunteer and coach others. This is a thought provoking read that inspires us to reflect on our role in shaping America's future. The writing style of the author is amazing. The narration is smooth and is rich with examples from the author's own firsthand experiences. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.
A good leader plays the role of a powerful motivator and inspires others to become the weight behind the spear in their families and communities. Through this book, the author wants us to recognize our role in developing the next generations of Americans.
This book inspires us to volunteer and coach others. This is a thought provoking read that inspires us to reflect on our role in shaping America's future. The writing style of the author is amazing. The narration is smooth and is rich with examples from the author's own firsthand experiences. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.
January 3, 2025
McConkey's writing style is very clear and engaging, but this is more a book of personal example essays than a guide to how to mentor and create future leaders.
August 4, 2025
Amazing book with great stories and inspiration about helping mold leaders of the future. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews