Faith, Family, and Focus: Murray Watts
Mike McGee
Mugsy - Director of Stores & Operations; The Post - Founding Member, Collegiate Swimmer
Short and sweet this week - the intentions behind the Faith Family Fitness and Focus part of this newsletter have not gone as I’d planned. But we’re here now so Game On!
2025 is FLYING just 30 days in. To be honest my focus on Mugsy’s growth has taken over the lions share of my brain space and my writing has taken a back seat. I’m sitting on a plane today scrambling for words to articulate my latest conversation with Murray Watts.?
Murray and I became friends through a business partnership between our two employers. My first month with Mugsy, Murray was in town with another client and we were able to grab lunch snd instantly connected. Both had young kids, both former collegiate athletes working in a similar space. Lots in common, lots to talk about over some Leon’s Fried Chicken and Oysters in the Low Country.?
A year and a half later I joined The Post, a community of former collegiate and professional athletes, and I knew Murray would fit right along with the group. We were part of the Founding Members group together. Through this network we began to share stories of our faith and how God was working in our lives.
I knew when I came up with the idea of Faith Family Fitness and Focus that Murray was on the list of people I wanted to talk to. But what I got out of the conversation was much less tactical and much more holistic. Check out a few clips here!
My first take away — focus less on habits and checking boxes, focus more on holistic integration of prayer, scripture, and fellowship. Yes habits can help, but it’s less the “habit hacking” mentality and more a complete surrender to God acting through our daily actions.?
My second — embrace the journey. Being young in my walk with Jesus doesn’t need to be rushed or accelerated. We can’t get time back, we will regret rushing to know more, read through the Bible faster, over consume content just for the sake of achieving a certain understand of God and our purpose. Try Less and Trust More. Surrender each day to him and allow our gifts and talents he’s given us to be our guide.?
Here's a few clips and a breakdown of our conversation:
On Discipline and Hard Work
Murray’s story is one of relentless commitment. As a former professional baseball player, he understands what it takes to succeed at the highest level. But beyond natural talent, he emphasized the importance of showing up, doing the work, and staying consistent.
“You don’t rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your preparation.”
This mindset carried him from athletics into his career in tech sales. Whether it’s training athletes or leading a team, the principle remains: put in the work, trust the process, and be patient with results.
Faith as the Foundation
Throughout our conversation, one theme remained constant—faith. For Murray, his relationship with Christ isn’t just a Sunday morning event; it’s the cornerstone of his daily life, guiding his decisions, priorities, and leadership.
“If my identity is only in my accomplishments, I’ll never be satisfied. My identity has to be in Christ first.”
This perspective helps him navigate challenges with a bigger picture in mind. When setbacks come, instead of being defined by them, he leans into his faith for clarity and direction.
Leadership Through Serving
Murray also spoke about the importance of servant leadership—whether in business, coaching, or family life. True leadership, he says, isn’t about power or authority but about serving others well.
“If you’re leading a team, a business, or a family, your job isn’t to be served—it’s to serve.”
He models this in his business by mentoring younger athletes, investing in relationships, and making decisions with integrity. In his family, it means being present, intentional, and leading by example.
Balancing Family and Ambition
One of the biggest struggles high-achieving men face is balancing professional ambition with family life. Murray doesn’t claim to have it all figured out, but he prioritizes what matters most.
“Success in business means nothing if I fail at home.”
His advice? Set boundaries, be where your feet are, and don’t sacrifice your family on the altar of success. There’s always another deal, another opportunity—but your family needs you now.
Final Thoughts
Murray’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, discipline, and putting first things first. Whether you’re building a business, raising a family, or striving toward a goal, his story is a reminder that success isn’t just about achievements—it’s about who you become in the process.
What’s Next?
Who should I interview next? Reply and let me know what kind of conversations would be most valuable to you as a high-aspiring man of faith.