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Over the course of his life, Mr. Standley has established and successfully transitioned ownership of 17 businesses, gifting them to families in need of income. In the political realm, he has run for offices including U.S. Representative in both Colorado’s 1st District and Kansas’s 2nd District, as well as for Sheriff, gaining invaluable insight into the workings of government and civic engagement. Though he did not secure a seat, these experiences equipped him with a nuanced understanding of public service and advocacy, lessons he now channels into his writing and speaking engagements.
As an author, Mr. Standley has released three books, each rooted in distinct yet universally resonant themes. His latest release, Living In Fear: The United States Could Do Better, published in April 2025, dissects the subtle but pervasive anxiety that shapes American society today. The book delves into how fear, driven by economic disparity, media influence, and political polarization, has woven itself into the fabric of everyday life. He paints a vivid and sobering picture of how systemic instability impacts diverse groups—from single parents and students to marginalized communities and the elderly.
The Coming: Political Unrest, his first novel, explores the seductive nature of power through the character of President Sterling—a leader whose moral facade belies a dangerously ambitious core. The narrative, told through the eyes of investigative journalist Sarah, underscores the power of truth and the personal toll of exposing corruption at the highest levels. The book offers a compelling critique of leadership and influence in the modern political era.
Mr. Standley’s second book, Growing Up In Kansas: Abuse In The Heartland, serves as a memoir of resilience. It recounts his personal journey through family trauma, adolescence, and the pursuit of healing. Far from a tale of victimhood, it presents a clear-eyed exploration of how hardship can shape, but not define, one’s identity. Through this book, Mr. Standley communicates not only his own experiences but also a broader message about the possibility of overcoming adversity through inner strength and self-discovery.
While his accomplishments span multiple fields, Mr. Standley now finds himself at a critical juncture. Following the passing of his mother in September of last year, with whom he jointly donated $750,000 to nonprofit efforts, he faces the foreclosure of his home—a registered historical site and active refuge for the homeless. A loan originally secured to repair and maintain the property has now become the source of potential displacement, not only for Mr. Standley and his 10 rescue dogs but also for the individuals he houses as they transition from homelessness.
His goal is urgent and specific: to sell over 10,000 copies of his books. With this, he aims to raise $105,000—the amount necessary to stop the foreclosure process and ensure that the shelter continues operating. This home has been a cornerstone of his charitable work and, without it, the infrastructure of his foundation will suffer a major loss. Mr. Standley’s message is not a call for charity, but for readers to support a cause through the purchase of literature that seeks to illuminate social truths.
He emphasizes that his work is not driven by competition or commercial gain. “We work to help other people,” he notes—a principle that threads through every endeavor, from his authorship to his nonprofit initiatives. His story is unique not because of its challenges, but because of how those challenges are faced—with grit, generosity, and a willingness to transform struggle into action.
With more visibility and support, Mr. Standley hopes that his books will reach new audiences who not only connect with the narratives but also contribute to the preservation of a mission that has uplifted countless individuals. His story is a reminder that behind every book is a person, and sometimes, behind that person is a whole community depending on the success of their words.- D. Standley is available for speaking engagements, interviews, and lectures. His work can be accessed and supported through the links below.
- The Coming: Political Unrest https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXQBWKM8
- Growing Up In Kansas: Abuse In The Heartland https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F18MY5TJ
- Living In Fear: The United States Could Do Better https://www.amazon.com/LIVING-FEAR-United-States-Better/dp/B0F311TJPC
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kdstandley1
- TikTok: @mcdonaldstandley.com
- Instagram: standley2778
- Twitter: @mcdonaldstandle