U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant General A.C. Roper talks about his book 'No Limits!'\” />

Lieutenant General A.C. Roper. Photo Courtesy of A.C. Roper.
U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant General A.C. Roper chatted about his book “No Limits!” He also discussed being an author in the digital age.

Background on A.C. Roper

A.C. Roper made history as the first African American Lieutenant General in the U.S. Army Reserve, culminating a distinguished 42-year military career with his role as Deputy Commander of U.S. Northern Command.

There, he led homeland defense and disaster response efforts, tackling major security challenges such as North Korean missile threats, Russian long-range aviation, the Chinese surveillance balloon, and the resettlement of over 70,000 Afghan evacuees.

In parallel, his 33 years in law enforcement—including a decade as Chief of Police in Birmingham, Alabama.

He is also a committed educator and adjunct professor of Criminal Justice who is passionate about coaching and mentoring others to achieve impactful leadership and a lasting legacy.

He authored the No. 1 bestseller “No Limits! Seven Keys to Life, Legacy, and Leadership.” Alongside his wife, Edith, he co-leads Rest in Grace Ministries, and they celebrated 40 years of marriage and the accomplishments of their two daughters.

You’ve led in some of the most high-stakes environments imaginable—from law enforcement to national defense. What inspired you to write ‘No Limits!’ and why now?

After more than four decades of service leading in complex, high-stakes environments, I realized the lessons I’ve learned weren’t just for me. They were entrusted to me to be shared.

“No Limits!” was born from a deep conviction that purpose-driven leadership can change lives, families, organizations, and communities.

Now, as I transition from command to coaching, it’s the right time to pass on these keys—these hard-won insights—to help others unlock their potential. The need for authentic, values-based leadership has never been greater.

Your book blends memoir with leadership principles. How did you decide which personal stories to share, and what role does vulnerability play in leadership?

The stories I chose aren’t just about triumph—they’re about tension, failure, growth, and grit. I wanted the reader to see the full arc, not a polished highlight reel. Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s wisdom.

When a leader is willing to say “I don’t know” or “I got it wrong,” it gives others permission to grow. That authenticity builds trust, and trust is the currency of great leadership.

The title “No Limits!” is powerful. What does it mean to you personally, and how can someone who feels stuck or defeated begin to adopt that mindset?

To me, No Limits! is not about ignoring reality—it’s about not being confined by it. I grew up in public housing, faced plenty of reasons to settle for less, but faith, discipline, and vision wouldn’t let me stay stuck.

For anyone feeling defeated, I’d say start with one decision. One courageous act to believe there’s more for your life.

The “No Limits!” mindset starts when you stop rehearsing your limitations and start pursuing your purpose.

You made history as the first African American Lieutenant General in the U.S. Army Reserve. How did your identity shape your leadership journey—and what legacy do you hope it leaves for the next generation?

I never set out to make history. I set out to make a difference. But I also knew I was standing on the shoulders of those who opened doors I now walk through. My identity meant I had to lead with both excellence and empathy.

I had to be twice as prepared because I knew I was breaking ceilings others would walk under.

My hope is that young leaders of every background see what’s possible and know they’re not just allowed to lead, they’re expected to.

Leadership, especially in crisis, is something you’ve mastered over decades. What is one leadership lesson that’s remained true across all sectors—military, policing, and personal life?

Clarity in the chaos. Whether in a combat zone, a crisis command center, or a family emergency—leaders must bring clarity.

Not just in decision-making, but in values. People don’t just follow plans—they follow purpose. The leader’s job is to calm the storm enough for others to see the next right step.

I remember one high-stakes virtual meeting at the Pentagon that had gotten contentious.

Afterward, my Executive Officer pulled me aside and asked, “Sir, why did you speak up when you did—and hold back at other times?” He had noticed the intentionality.

I told him I was being a velvet hammer—smooth, but powerful. My goal wasn’t to win an argument; it was to accomplish the mission. Too many leaders confuse volume with influence or debate with direction.

I understood what was truly at stake regarding our concerns about defending the homeland and I focused on delivering that message with clarity and strength.

That moment must’ve stuck with him, because when I retired, my team gave me a framed gift that referenced “The Velvet Hammer.” Purpose-driven leadership leaves an impression.

What does the word success mean to you?

Success, for me, has never been about titles, rank, or recognition. It’s really about impact, knowing that my life and leadership have made a difference in the lives of others.

Success means leaving people, organizations, and communities stronger than when I found them. True success isn’t temporary applause—it’s the lasting influence of integrity, humility, and purpose-driven leadership.

What advice do you have for young and emerging authors?

My encouragement is simple: write with authenticity and courage. Don’t chase trends or try to sound like someone else.

Find your own voice since the power of your story is found in your unique perspective and lived experiences. Be disciplined, because writing requires consistency.

Also, be humble, because publishing will stretch and grow you. Remember, a book isn’t just words on a page—it’s a bridge to inspire, challenge, and empower others.

What’s it like being an author in the digital age?

It’s both an incredible opportunity and a great responsibility. Technology has made it possible for voices to reach across borders instantly, but it’s also created a world where distraction and noise compete for attention.

Being an author today means not just writing a book, but stewarding your message in a way that connects with people where they are; whether that’s on a page, a screen, or a stage.

For me, the digital age has reinforced the timeless truth: authentic stories still cut through the noise, and when they are rooted in values and purpose, they will always find an audience.

His bestselling book “No Limits!” is available on Amazon by clicking here.