In a world where recognition often defines success, Tosin Ogunsanwo's new book, What Is Your Folding Chair?, offers a countercultural message: the seasons of obscurity and waiting are not wasted but are essential for building the character and competence needed for future influence. Drawing from Christian spiritual formation and practical leadership principles, Ogunsanwo challenges readers to prepare for the rooms God is calling them to enter, even when no seat is currently offered.
The book introduces the metaphor of the folding chair, representing the gifts, values, relationships, resilience, and expertise a person develops while waiting for opportunity. "This book helps readers identify their 'folding chair,'" Ogunsanwo explains, describing it as "the preparation, resilience, skills, sacrifices, or acts of courage that signal readiness and open doors that once seemed off-limits." The concept originated in 2022 when Ogunsanwo encountered Shirley Chisholm's famous statement about bringing a folding chair when a seat at the table is not offered. The phrase resonated spiritually, leading to a sermon and eventually this book, which was written after a period of renewed conviction in 2025.
For Ogunsanwo, that waiting period illustrates a central theme: 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 feel overlooked, underestimated, or excluded by traditional systems. Rather than defining leadership by position or recognition, the book asks readers to consider what they are developing now that will prepare them to serve effectively when their opportunity arrives.
The book occupies a unique space between traditional leadership literature and Christian personal growth. Ogunsanwo notes that leadership books often focus on external strategies, while faith-based books may emphasize spiritual encouragement. What Is Your Folding Chair? brings these worlds together through personal experience, biblical narratives, interviews, storytelling, and practical principles. Ogunsanwo brings a distinctive professional perspective to this intersection. For over 15 years, he has led cybersecurity initiatives protecting critical infrastructure while mentoring emerging leaders through ministry, education, and community engagement. He holds a master's degree in Engineering Management and the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential. His experience in high-stakes technical environments complements his work as a pastor, board director, and speaker, allowing him to approach leadership as both a practical discipline and a spiritual responsibility.
Ultimately, the book is not merely about getting invited into more important rooms; it is about becoming the kind of person prepared to contribute meaningfully once there. Ogunsanwo describes his writing journey as "Divine, Timely and Transformative." For readers still waiting for their opportunity, his message is clear: the absence of recognition does not mean the absence of purpose. The question is not merely whether a seat will eventually 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, What Is Your Folding Chair? is now available. The book's release comes at a time when many are reevaluating the meaning of work, purpose, and leadership in a rapidly changing world. By emphasizing preparation over position, Ogunsanwo offers a timely reminder that true influence is built long before the spotlight arrives.
