The Breakthrough Collection

Straight talk in short takes, 21 stories to transform your thinking

BY Cleophus P. Franklin Jr

About the Author

Cleophus P. Franklin Jr

Author, global executive, and educator Cleophus P. Franklin Jr. transforms 35+ years of international leadership experience into stories that connect, inspire, and guide. When you open one of his books, you’re not just reading—you’re engaging with hard-earned wisdom from board rooms to classrooms across five continents.

The Franklin Leadership Foundation

Opening Doors Through Education

The Story:
“A scholarship didn’t just pay for my education—it paid for my future. Now it’s my turn to do the same for others.”

I still remember opening that scholarship letter as a young man. Someone took a chance on me and my potential and decided to invest in it, even when financial barriers said my dreams might need to wait. That moment changed everything.

What It Is:
The Franklin Leadership Foundation at Morningside University is a social non-profit platform focused on student career and leadership development. We partner with businesses, entrepreneurs, and leaders to develop the next generation through scholarships, mentorships, internships, and externships.

Why It Matters:
Not everyone has equal access to higher education. A student’s financial situation shouldn’t determine whether they get to pursue their dreams or build the future they’re capable of creating. Since inception, we’ve provided scholarships to over 30 underprivileged and financially challenged students—opening doors that might have otherwise remained closed.

Each scholarship is more than financial assistance. It’s a message: “We see you. We believe in you. Your circumstances don’t define your ceiling.”

How It Works:
Your book purchases proceeds directly fund these scholarships and leadership development programs. It’s my way of paying forward what was given to me.

So when you buy a book, it goes beyond that and supports the Franklin Leadership Foundation – providing scholarships to students in need.

Another cup with Cleo

Another cup with

Cleo

Stories of Wisdom In Every Cup

In “Another Cup with Cleo,” Cleophus “Cleo” Franklin Jr. invites readers to pull up a chair for a soul-nourishing conversation that transcends the traditional leadership narrative. This powerful collection of stories serves as both a compass and companion for navigating life’s ever-changing currents, offering wisdom that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary lessons.