Leadership Episodes

Scott Huesing is a retired Marine Infantry Major, combat leader, and bestselling author of Echo in Ramadi. A seasoned speaker and media contributor, he shares hard-earned insights on leadership, human connection, and overcoming adversity forged through 24 years of service and global combat deployments. - Quick Episode Summary: In this episode of Passing The Torch, I sit down with Scott Huesing, a former U.S. Marine Corps officer who led Marines through some of the most ...

Send a text Todd Simmons is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Courageous Leadership Alliance. As a seasoned educator, executive coach, organizational culture influencer, international keynote speaker and business leader, Todd strives to build a coalition of change agents sharing a common aim for building a society of courageous leaders. Todd has worked with global institutions and businesses such as NASA, U.S Air Force, U.S Space Force, Professional Golf Association (PGA), A...

Send a text Nate Boyer—former Green Beret, NFL long snapper, philanthropist, and public speaker. Nate’s journey is anything but ordinary, spanning military service in Iraq and Afghanistan, walking on to the University of Texas football team, and even suiting up briefly with the Seattle Seahawks. He’s also made a difference across the globe, from volunteering in refugee camps to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to support clean water initiatives. But Nate’s story is about much more than impressive r...

Send a text Vincent “Rocco” Vargas, a former decorated Army Ranger who also conducted Spec Ops at the border (and continues to serve as a Sergeant First Class Reserve Officer today). In addition, Rocco Vargas is a veteran of three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan with the 75th Ranger Regiment’s 2nd Battalion based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. As if that were not enough, Vargas has also thrived in life outside the military. His accomplishments include: chef, podcast...

Send a text Background: Michael “Rod” Rodríguez joined the U.S. Army in 1992, becoming a Green Beret in 1997 and serving as a Sniper Instructor at Fort Bragg until his medical retirement in 2013 due to combat injuries. With ten deployments, Rod’s military career was marked by significant contributions. He joined the GWOT Memorial Foundation in 2016, serving as President and CEO from 2018-2020 and again from 2021. Rod has also supported veterans through the George W. Bush Institute’s Military ...

Send a text Jenna Carlton is the founder of The Millennial Veteran and the podcast Vet Chats. She utilizes her voice and platforms to engage in conversations with other veterans, focusing on their experiences and perspectives. Her Instagram page reaches millions of veterans per month and provides a space to openly discuss the emotional side of transitioning out of the military. Jenna blends personal stories, insights, and discussions about the challenges and triumphs face...

Send a text James Brackin IV, the host of the "You Can Too" podcast, joins Passing The Torch to discuss the concept of "invisible progress," the importance of persistence, and reframing rejection. James shares his journey in podcasting, past personal losses, and the value of resilience. They also discuss leveraging networks, setting dream guest lists, and maintaining mindfulness. James emphasizes the Four Ps: Passion, Purpose, Persistence, and Patience. The episode...

Send a text Travis Wilson is a 21-year military veteran who spent 13 years as a U.S. Army Green Beret. Travis entered the Army in 1995 as an Airborne Medic with the goal of one day becoming an 18D Green Beret Medic. After 6 years in the service, Travis left the Army to attend Boise State University, where he studied Exercise Science and played hockey for the ACHA club hockey program. After completing school, Travis returned to the Army to complete his special forces training and...

Send a text Ever wondered how a simple family trip to Disney can teach you about joy, gratitude, and resilience? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Schenck, the brilliant mind behind the Growth Now Movement podcast. Justin opens up about his unique experiences as a stepfather, the magic of Disney vacations, and the profound importance of embracing childlike wonder. From heartfelt stories about Father's Day to the enchantment of staying on Disney property, this episode is packed...

Send a text 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 remai...

Send a text 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 trans...

Send a text 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 capt...

Send a text 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 ...

Send a text 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 ...

Send a text Bio - Chief Master Sergeant Roger A. Towberman is the Chief Master Sergeant of the United States Space Force (CMSSF) and serves at the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public and to those in all levels of government. He acts as the personal adviser to the Chief of Space Operations and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, r...