ITT 239: From Steel Mill to Capitol Hill with Robert Ordway

Robert Ordway grew up in a small mill town on the fringe of Gary, Indiana. He had a typical blue-collar upbringing, but all that changed when he turned 13 and his dad was diagnosed with ALS. Robert learned that adversity can come unannounced, and often, we need to prepare to handle those challenges. His worldview has been shaped by lessons from his dad, who stressed the importance of developing personal agency and possessing skin in the game in all aspects of life. 

He has over 15 years of experience in public policy, civil service, and private sector work. In his free time, Robert designs custom clothing, competes in powerlifting, enjoys cycling/bikepacking, and studies the history of Northwest Indiana as it relates to Big Steel, labor unions, race relations, organized crime, prohibition, Christianity, and southern migration. He is currently writing his first book, “Millrat: A Memoir About ALS, Adversity, and the American Dream”.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Robert Ordway, a senior policy advisor for a US senator, and owner of the image consulting company, Rusted Oak. Join us as we explore Robert's multifaceted career in Washington, DC, his advocacy for Northwest Indiana, and the long-term efforts behind his upcoming book.

 

In this broadcast, Robert Ordway and I talk about:

 

[00:00:00] Introduction to Robert Ordway - his backstory and overcoming adversity

[00:08:14] How discoveries in his personal life led Robert to jump into entrepreneurial waters

[00:10:46] Finding clarity through dealing with family history

[00:19:13] Topics that drove Robert to start writing his memoir 

[00:28:26] Robert’s path into the field of politics 

[00:32:05] From menswear to DC

[00:40:25] Future endeavors - writing, fundraising and more 

[00:46:26] Where to get in touch with Robert Ordway and sign up for updates on his book

Relevant Links:

• robertordway.com
• Robert's LinkedIn

 

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