From Justice to Just Us: Arnel Smalls on Servant Leadership & Legacy

By Esther | July 1, 2025 | The Legacy Woman Show

“When you meet Arnel Smalls, you’re instantly drawn to his calm presence and quiet strength — the kind of leadership that isn’t loud, but lasting. A longtime member of Patmos Chapel, Arnel is a man whose life work has spanned law enforcement, coaching, ministry, and community service. He’s someone who believes in doing the work — even when no one’s watching.

This week on The Legacy Woman Show, I had the incredible honor of interviewing Arnel and sharing his story. It’s the kind of story that reminds us that legacy isn’t always loud — it’s faithful.

🕵🏽‍♂️ A Legacy of Justice

Before stepping into ministry and coaching, Arnel served as a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Justice for 25 years, helping to reduce violent crime in cities across America.

“I’m a retired Government Special Agent, and I spent my career helping to reduce violent crime in America. After retiring, I knew I still had more to give — not just to society, but to people.”

His years in federal service gave him a deep understanding of conflict, leadership, and the power of doing what’s right — even when it’s hard.

💼 Small World Solutions: A Business Built on Impact

After retiring, Arnel and his wife launched Small World Solutions, a consulting and life coaching business rooted in conflict resolution and transformation. His work focuses on helping organizations improve workplace culture and helping individuals improve their life conditions.

“When you manage conflict, you boost morale, improve teamwork, and increase productivity. That’s real ROI.”

Whether he’s coaching executives or mentoring individuals, Arnel’s approach is about progress — not perfection.

“Everyone wants to get to the mountaintop. But you don’t just jump there. You take steps — sometimes baby steps. Just keep moving.”

🏥 A Cheerleader for Ministry

In addition to his business, Arnel was asked by the pastors of Patmos Chapel to lead what’s known as Cluster Three Ministries, which includes:

• Prison Ministry

• Veterans Ministry

• Health & Wellness Ministry

• Community Service Ministry

“I’m really just the cheerleader,” he said. “We have an amazing team of leaders. My role is to support, encourage, and help them grow.”

From placing food in the car of a family struggling to make ends meet, to serving returning citizens as they re-enter society — Arnel believes that even the smallest acts of service matter.

“The littlest thing can mean the greatest thing to somebody. You might just be putting food in a car, but that may be the only food they’ll have that week. It’s not about how big the act is — it’s about showing up.”

🧠 A Word for the Next Generation

As we wrapped up our conversation, I asked Arnel what message he would leave with young men and women striving to live a life of legacy.

“Legacy isn’t about being seen. It’s about being steady.

Find your lane. Serve with integrity. And keep stepping — even when it’s hard.”

He’s living proof that faith, structure, and service can build a powerful, lasting impact — even outside the spotlight.

📞 Connect with Small World Solutions

If you’re interested in leadership coaching, conflict management training, or bringing Arnel in to consult or speak — he and his wife are open and ready to serve.

📧 Email: asmalley@smallworldsolutions.net

🌐 Website: www.smallworldsolutions.net

📞 Phone: 754-971-0007

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode:

“From Justice to Just Us: Arnel Smalls on Servant Leadership & Legacy”

Now streaming on Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.