In a world where recognition often seems reserved for a select few, Tosin Ogunsanwo's new book, What Is Your Folding Chair?, offers a countercultural message: preparation for influence begins long before anyone is watching. Drawing from Christian spiritual formation and practical leadership principles, Ogunsanwo argues that the seasons of obscurity, adversity, and waiting are not periods of inactivity but crucial times for developing the character, capability, and conviction needed to serve effectively when opportunity arrives.
The book's central metaphor—the folding chair—represents the gifts, values, relationships, resilience, and expertise a person builds while waiting for a seat at the table. Inspired by Shirley Chisholm's famous statement about bringing a folding chair when one is not offered, Ogunsanwo first explored this idea in a 2022 sermon. The concept resonated deeply, and in 2025 he felt compelled to expand it into a book. For Ogunsanwo, this journey reflects the very theme he writes about: obscurity is not inactivity. "God uses adversity, obscurity, and obedience to shape leaders before He positions them for influence," he says.
This message is particularly relevant for those who have felt overlooked, underestimated, or excluded by traditional systems. Rather than defining leadership by position or title, What Is Your Folding Chair? asks readers to consider what they are building now that will prepare them to contribute meaningfully later. Ogunsanwo explains that the book helps readers identify their "folding chair"—"the preparation, resilience, skills, sacrifices, or acts of courage that signal readiness and open doors that once seemed off-limits."
Ogunsanwo brings a distinctive perspective to this intersection of faith and leadership. With over 15 years of experience leading cybersecurity initiatives to protect critical infrastructure, he also serves as a pastor, board director, and speaker. He holds a master's degree in Engineering Management and the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential. His professional background in high-stakes environments complements his ministry work, allowing him to approach leadership as both a practical discipline and a spiritual responsibility.
The book occupies an intentional space between traditional leadership literature and Christian personal growth. While many leadership books focus on external strategies and faith-based books emphasize spiritual encouragement, What Is Your Folding Chair? integrates both through personal stories, biblical narratives, interviews, and actionable principles. Ogunsanwo's writing journey, which he describes as "Divine, Timely and Transformative," aims to equip readers to become the kind of people who are prepared to contribute once they enter larger spheres of influence.
Ultimately, What Is Your Folding Chair? is not merely about getting invited into important rooms; it is about becoming prepared to make a meaningful impact once there. For readers still waiting for their opportunity, Ogunsanwo's message is clear: the absence of recognition does not mean the absence of purpose. The deeper question is not whether a seat will become available, but what one is building, developing, and carrying when it does. Published by Lucid Books, an independent hybrid publisher in the Houston area, the book is now available to inspire and equip those called to lead.
