History

The Positive Attitude Development course began at a federal correctional facility in Milan, Michigan in 1989.  Chief psychologist, Dr. Warren Welch, reviewed inmate Dan Bayes’ institutional file and recognized an extensive background of “motivational instruction.”  Dr. Welch asked him to teach other inmates in a classroom setting.  Mr. Bayes rose to the challenge, basing the class on the best selling inspirational book written by Og Madino, “The Greatest Salesman in the World.”  The class was an overwhelming success.

In 1990, Lyle Wildes, a fellow inmate with Dan Bayes, enrolled in the course. Through his interaction and involvement with Mr. Bayes, along with his own prior experience in sales and professorship at the University of Wisconsin-Richland Center, Mr. Wildes became a co-instructor.  Lyle took the course to new heights with a flair and style that was electrifying, inspirational, and so effective, that the course was highly sought and praised by inmates, institutional staff and volunteers.

In 1996, the Positive Attitude Development curriculum was incorporated into the Institutional Release Preparation Program for inmates who are soon to return to society.  It was an eye opening blast that woke up participants to the fact that they were not only responsible for their successful integration back into society, but they were fully capable of doing so with the helpful hints and guidelines presented in the PAD segment.   Also in 1996, the residential drug abuse program participants were asked by their facilitators to participate in the PAD course at the same time.  These two programs working alongside each other resulted in additional motivation for creating new and successful habits, goal-setting strategies, and a more open mind to the necessity for change. It is this newly 'rebuilt' attitude that promotes responsible action to enhance and accentuate the positives that are ever present in life.

With constant implementation of refined ideas, coupled with imagination and energy, Lyle and Dan transformed idled and embittered inmates into functional and focused students who were enlightened to a new sense of direction.

Following Lyle’s release from federal prison on December 10, 2007, he wrote the Positive Attitude Development Workbook with Joe Kelly.  It is now offered through Lyle's publisher, Whole Person Associates, and on Amazon.com.   Lyle currently teaches the Positive Attitude Development course throughout the Midwest to social organizations, churches, high schools, and other venues such as the Marsh, A Center for Balance and Fitness located in Minnetonka, MN.     His style is engaging, honest and versatile. 

His presentations have encompassed a wide array of audiences. For example: Peace UCC Church on “Renewal”, The Domestic Abuse Intervention Project for the PAD 10 week course to court ordered or volunteer participants, a conference for  hospital administrators on “Changing Times”, a Chamber of Commerce  Board of Directors retreat, First United Methodist church, and many others.

For additional background on Lyle Wildes, click here to read a news report published in the Duluth News Tribune.

*Razor wire photo by David Ritter