Passing The Torch

When life threw Alex Klein a curveball, transforming her from a NCAA basketball player to a Canadian bobsledder, she didn't just adapt—she soared. In our latest episode, Alex shares the intimate details of battling an autoimmune disease while pursuing athletic excellence, and how these challenges have shaped her mission to uplift high-achieving women through her coaching. Her story is a masterclass in resilience, and you'll discover how inner beauty, the power of the soul, and ENFJ personality traits all play a role in her incredible journey.Join us as we unpack the simple, yet transformative strategies that can illuminate the darkest of days. Alex's approach to gratitude, like savoring the joy in a scoop of ice cream, exemplifies how cherishing the small wins can lead to profound growth. You'll hear how mentors like Tim Grover shaped her mindset, teaching that failure isn't a setback but a pivot point towards new horizons. This conversation is a reminder that the journey of life, wit

Stepping into the limelight of our latest episode is Riley Tejcek, the first female Marine to break the ice in Team USA bobsledding and the crowned Miss Military 2023. Riley's vibrant narrative arcs from the adrenaline rush of World Cup races to teaching moments on international soil, encompassing the warmth of family bonds revealed in a game show triumph with her mom. Her response to the oft-asked "What do you do?" is as dynamic as her life, a rich tapestry of roles and passions that defy the simplicity of a single title.Riley brings us into her world, where the power of positivity and the art of self-reflection intersect with the discipline of military logistics. Through engaging anecdotes, she sheds light on how gratitude and a nurturing internal dialogue fuel her journey both on the slick tracks and in daily life. The wisdom of historical figures acts as a compass for Riley, guiding her as she steers through the challenges of athletic discipline with the same clarity and determination that

You are built for it, even if current situations do not reflect the ideal reality. Have you ever held back a part of yourself, fearful of what the world might say? Mike Sarge joins us to discuss how liberating it can be when we choose to share our unique gifts. His philosophy – "A gift isn't a gift until it's given" – echoes through our conversation, as we tackle the power of vulnerability and the transformative effect of expressing one's true talents. Mike's dual expertise as an award-winning artist and a keynote speaker brings a refreshing perspective on bridging divides and fostering a sense of belonging in these polarized times. Together, we navigate the theme of visibility in a world that often overlooks the quiet contributions of humility and authenticity.Leadership isn't just a title; it's an evolution of character, especially in the wake of adversity. Reflecting on the challenging events of recent years, we discuss the reshaping of our leadership models and our

Have you ever wondered how the discipline of military service can shape a fearless entrepreneur? Haley Marie McClain Hill, an Air Force veteran and Shark Tank champion, joins us to share her extraordinary transformation from serving the country to leading the business world. Her insights are not just a tale of personal triumph but a guiding light for anyone navigating the shift from uniform to the uncertainty of startups. We talk about the adrenaline rush of national TV success and the critical role of female leadership, offering a new definition of success that goes beyond the bottom line to include authenticity and positive impact.Approaching life's hurdles with the right frame of mind can be the difference between faltering and flourishing. This episode peels back the layers on how to turn challenges into stepping stones, using the power of positive affirmations and a love for the grind to propel us forward. I share bits of my life outside the microphone, like my hidden musical flair and current reads

Ryan Hawk, the voice behind "The Learning Leader Show," eloquently shares his passage from a budding sales rep to a beacon of guidance and performance excellence, and the cherished upcoming book project with Brook Cupps. This episode paints a vivid portrait of Hawk's ethos, rooted in the multifaceted nature of mentorship and the vibrant tapestry of life's locales, from Dayton's familiar embrace to Hawaii's enchanting call.My own narrative intertwines with Hawk's as I delve into the transformative power of preparation, a reflection of the athletic world's disciplined practice. Drawing from interactions with thought leaders like Todd Henry and Alex Hormozi, I underscore the potency of thorough engagement, the art of meaningful questioning, and the personal values that anchor my journey—thoughtfulness, thankfulness, curiosity, and consistency. We muse on living by an internal scoreboard, the pitfalls of comparison, and the cultivation of emotional intelligence that transce

Flying high from loading bombs in the Air Force to launching stories on screen, Carey Kight lands in our latest episode to share the trajectory of his remarkable career. His tales crisscross the heartland of Columbus, Ohio to the bustling sets of the entertainment industry, revealing how a blue-collar work ethic and a creative spirit can intertwine to shape a fulfilling post-service life. Carey's ambition to spotlight the Midwest's untapped potential in film and advertising shines through, as does his dedication to family, illustrating the many dimensions of this veteran's vibrant journey.Picture a world where military discipline is the secret weapon in the arsenal of entrepreneurship—Carey pulls back the curtain on this concept by walking us through lessons in decentralized command and the power of influence over strict hierarchy. He challenges the stereotypes that often overshadow veterans, bringing to light the adaptability and diverse skills honed through service, which he has successfully

Have you ever considered what life beyond the uniform might look like for a military leader? Retired Chief Master Sergeant Kaleth Wright joins us, offering an engaging reflection on his journey post-service and the books that have influenced his perspective on human interactions and mentorship. Prepare to be captivated by tales of his time with General Goldfein and the rare combination of exceptional leadership laced with genuine approachability that they cultivated together.The winds of change are blowing through the corridors of the Air Force, and we're here to track their course. In our conversation with Wright, we dissect the intricacies of systemic reform within the military, tackling the tough questions on restructuring the enlisted promotion system, addressing racial disparities in military justice, and championing gender equality in service opportunities. It's a contemplative look at the balancing act leaders perform while steering through a storm of demands for progress.Laughter punctuates

Have you ever pondered the makings of a future military general or what it takes to sculpt the raw potential of the leaders of tomorrow? Trevion Jones, a titan in the military industry, joins us to unpack the complex world of talent management. From his hands-on experience with "I Could Be," mentoring high school students online, to guiding seasoned military personnel, Trevion's insights are a treasure trove for anyone looking to harness the true potential of their team. Not only do we delve into the art of nurturing talent, but we also dissect the broader implications of diversity in organizations, advocating for an inclusive approach that embraces all forms of authentic and non-traditional qualities essential for growth and success.Throughout our conversation, I share stories from my early work experiences that mirror Trevion's philosophy on recognizing and fostering unique abilities. We navigate the intricacies of decision fatigue and its impact on leadership, drawing parallels from the

I'll never forget the first time I caught Roy Wood Jr. on stage in LA; his electrifying presence had the crowd in stitches. Now, I'm beyond thrilled to bring that same infectious energy directly to your ears as Roy joins me to peel back the curtains on a career that's had us laughing all the way from comedy clubs to The Daily Show. Sit back and absorb the anecdotes of our shared history, from the heartfelt care package he sent during my deployment to his unforgettable stint at the White House Correspondents Dinner. Roy's narrative isn't just a series of punchlines – it's a masterclass in the resilience and connection that defines the comedy landscape.Cleveland's notorious weather, it turns out, may just be the secret ingredient to appreciating a good joke. In a conversation that meanders through preferred climates and memorable locations, Roy and I find common ground in the oddest of places. From LeBron James' effect on the city's morale to musing over who'd p

Ever found yourself laughing while learning about the rigors of being a military officer and an all-American high jumper? Well, brace yourself for an episode that’s equal parts enlightening and entertaining as we welcome the spirited Shelly Baskin. Shelly's journey from a 1700-acre ranch to the military, the sports field, and the lessons she's learned along the way, are nothing short of inspiring. She regales us with tales from her childhood, sibling rivalry, and even a hilarious paintball escapade.Pressure is an inescapable part of life whether you are an athlete or in the military, but how do you manage it? Shelly gives us a peek into her recipe for handling pressure without crumbling. From choosing track over volleyball, handling overtraining, and navigating the world without social media, her life is a testament to the power of prioritization and avoiding unhealthy comparison. To aid this transformative journey, she shares resources that have helped her implement small, incremental changes in he

Ever found yourself captivated by the high-stakes worlds of the military and fitness? Brace yourself, as we bring you a fascinating conversation with Kurtis Stadsvold,  an active duty military individual who wears the dual hats of an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) expert and a fitness enthusiast. Prepare to traverse a meticulously woven narrative that delves into the captivating realm of military life, the hurdles of work-life balance, and the raw power of resilience.Dive headfirst into the deep end of Kurtis's life, as we shed light on the importance of stress outlets in challenging professions like EOD, and how fitness can act as an effective and rewarding channel. Kurtis uncovers the transformative impact of strength training and how it can shatter the cycle of victimhood, instigating a potent surge of personal growth. He even paints a vivid picture of his personal battles with med boards and how strength training has played a pivotal role in his journey.But the thrill doesn't stop there! Join

Have you ever pondered the profound impact of relationships, networking, and mentorship in shaping your professional journey? We invite you to share a thought-provoking conversation with our guest, Ian Eishen, a seasoned Air Force veteran, who taps into his rich experiences of over two decades in service to illuminate these facets. This episode promises to offer more than just insights - it's a stirring exploration of the power of motivation, the nuances of identity, and the significance of authenticity in effective leadership.We journey alongside Ian as he navigates through his military life, emphasizing the importance of identity and how it can be harnessed to uplift others. His late decision to join the Air Force truly underscores how open doors of opportunities can be found in the most unexpected places. We delve into the art of creating lasting impressions, emphasizing authenticity as the backbone of leadership. The discussion then takes a fascinating turn towards the role of AI and communication in

Ever wonder how you can truly seize the day and maximize each moment in your life?Sydney Sullivan, the motivational host of the Maximize the Moment Podcast, joins us for an exhilarating discussion about his philosophy of life. He shares his personal journey, the importance of building partnerships, and his passion for personal growth. Sydney's unique perspective on generational wealth, not just in terms of finance but also personal development, will make you rethink your own strategies towards growth.The conversation with Sydney doesn't stop there. We delve deeper into the concept of personal improvement, discussing the significance of learning from others, ruthlessly prioritizing and maintaining a work-life balance. Sydney shares an interesting approach to finding out life's real values and a secret to starting the day before it begins. As we wrap up the episode, we explore the impact of small decisions on our lives, supported by a captivating analogy of dominoes and a heartening story about a

Ever wondered what it took to emerge from the crucible of war a stronger leader? Join me as I am privileged to spend time with retired United States Air Force Colonel Lee Ellis, author of the award-winning book, Leading with Honor. Our conversation weaves through his inspiring journey from being a prisoner of war in Vietnam to the birth of his mission - developing leaders of character, courage, and commitment. Six years on, the impact of his book on my own leadership journey remains profound.As you listen, prepare to gain insightful lessons on the importance of relationships in leadership, drawn from Lee's experiences in the Vietnam War. Discover how character, mission, and people are the cornerstones of effective leadership. Lee shares wisdom on self-management for leaders and the need to reflect on the psychological effects of war. Stay tuned for an honest discussion on his POW experience in Vietnam, where he and his fellow soldiers confronted bitterness to walk out as free men.In our final chat, Lee d

Ever imagined how it feels to be in the shoes of a Development Advisor Special Duty Manager at the Headquarters Air Force Pentagon? Join us as we navigate the riveting journey of Senior Master Sergeant Stephanie Zengerle. From her humble beginnings in Pueblo, Colorado, to challenging deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kenya, and ultimately her influential role at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Stephanie shares her profound experiences. Overcoming her inherent shyness and fear of public speaking, Stephanie lets us in on how she's broken the barriers of her comfort zone.Stephanie goes onto narrate how she transformed her life's setbacks into stepping stones. She boldly shares her encounter with DUI and the pivotal role that mental health resources played in her life. Drawing inspiration from her late grandfather’s motivating words, she highlights the significance of resilience in life. She candidly discusses the transformative power of learning from her own mistakes, demonstrating how they'v

What happens when your passion for authentic and respectful conversations sparks a podcast that becomes a mentorship platform on demand? Just ask Pete and Jessica from the Unpopular Celebrities podcast. This dynamic duo has spent the last three years cultivating a platform that values authenticity, accountability, and the power of meaningful interactions. Balancing the dynamics of a five-member podcast isn't always easy, but the lessons learned and bonds formed make it all worth it.Have you ever wondered about the people behind the voices of your favorite podcast? Beyond the mic, Pete and Jessica share their journey, the challenges, and the rewarding relationships they have forged with guests such as Chief Rogers, Airman Hill, April Buford, Andy Gilbert and Todd Simmons. Through podcasting, they've connected with a diverse range of perspectives and experiences that enrich their own understanding of the world. Join us as we pull back the curtain for a behind-the-scenes look at the Unpopular Celebriti

Meet Shane Pilgrim, a veteran who transformed his military experience into a successful civilian life. This episode sees us journeying through Shane's transition, unveiling the nuggets of wisdom he gathered throughout his career, and uncovering how he became a board of advisors member with Nextop Veterans. An advocate of challenging assumptions and embracing autonomy, Shane discloses the role of innovation in staying ahead across any industry.Shane's insights don't stop at transition; he further explores the realm of business and networking success. He emphasizes the power of understanding your heart's true desires and the influential principle of networking. Our conversation then shifts to leadership and personal style, discussing unique styles, patience, a growth mindset, and the awe-inspiring works of leaders like Admiral McRaven.In the final stride of our conversation, we reflect on the poignant concept of self-investment, the risks, rewards, and the potential outcomes it yields – be i

Have you ever wondered how one finds strength in vulnerability? Join us for a profound conversation with our special guest, the resilient Chad VanCleave-Goff of the United States Air Force. Chad candidly shares his personal journey, a testament to the power of authenticity in leadership, and the beautiful balance of military stripes with his true self. His story, filled with personal growth and the tragic loss of his father, is sure to inspire you. As we explore Chad's captivating journey, we also delve into the significance of self-care and genuine connections in enhancing life's quality. Drawing from Chad's experience of supporting his unit during the early days of the pandemic, we illuminate how small acts of kindness hold the power to cause a significant impact. His narrative of running towards a positive mindset while leaving behind negativity is a potent message on mental and emotional resilience.In the closing chapters of our conversation, Chad pays tribute to the influential figures in

Imagine kick-starting your day with a purposeful routine- one that enhances focus and intentionality and paves the way for a lasting legacy. That's precisely what Centerville High School Basketball Coach Brook Cupps shares in this enlightening episode, dwelling on morning rituals of meditating, journaling, and reciting a mantra. We also delve into the transformative impact of meditation and how he guides students in finding their unique purpose in life while ensuring they realize the best version of themselves. Show Notes: IntroStory behind the movie Patch AdamsValues along with the meanings of Foxhole and the phrase Chop ChopImportance of body language and non-verbal leadership skills Creating space to think strategicallyHow the practice of mindfulness and strategic thinking has directly impacted his success on the courtIn the past five years, a new belief or behavior that has more improved his lifeTips for setting into motion courses of action that allow people to unleash their best and most valuable p

What would you do if you were thrown into the throes of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, all while pursuing a demanding career in the medical field? Our guest Rylee, a military medic and social media influencer, asked herself this very question. Her answer? Face the battles head-on, amplify emotional intelligence, and harness the power of a growth mindset. Rylee's journey, though marked with challenges, is nothing short of inspiring.Rylee's candid conversation about her invisible wounds of PTSD,  born out of an abusive relationship, resonates with many. Her love language of gift-giving and a conscious effort to make others feel significant, are her ways to make this world less lonely. Her childhood coping mechanism of running – both away from difficulties and towards personal development, make for an intriguing listen. As we walk with Rylee towards her passion for women's health, we learn what made her so committed to the cause. She offers a heartfelt story about the moment she learned the skill