Joe Mackey, an entrepreneur and board member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization Detroit, opened up about his background and the challenges that shaped him. With two decades of experience, he has dedicated his career to helping visionaries focus on more than just financial results—encouraging them to pursue a better life for themselves and their families. His personal journey includes overcoming a chaotic childhood and building a career rooted in values, service, and resilience.

In 2021, Joe faced his greatest test when he contracted COVID-19 and nearly lost his life. Hospitalized for 21 days and on oxygen for months afterward, he experienced moments where he felt his life slipping away. Yet in those darkest times, he held onto images of his six children and small signs of life, such as the thread on a hospital bedsheet, as proof that he was still alive. These moments taught him the power of presence and determination.

From that near-death experience, Joe gained three life-changing insights. First, he realized he is truly loved, after friends and community rallied outside his hospital room with encouragement and support. Second, he discovered the importance of living one moment at a time and focusing on the present rather than anxiously clinging to outcomes. Third, he learned that life, business, and family continue on—even without him—teaching him humility and the value of building systems that don’t depend solely on one person.

Joe now applies these lessons to his life and work. He emphasizes taking action rather than just offering help, staying rooted in the process rather than worrying about results, and aligning time and energy with what matters most. His story challenges entrepreneurs to reflect: are you living as the best version of yourself, and are your priorities in line with what you truly value? His courage, resilience, and commitment to growth provide a powerful reminder to live with intention and purpose.