Passing The Torch

Send us a textZac Pitts is a news personality and owner of ZP Media and Consulting. In this episode he shares his remarkable journey from setbacks to success and the invaluable lessons he learned along the way.In you this episode you will learn the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, how setbacks can act as springboards, and why embracing imperfections and self-awareness are crucial for personal development. Join Us in Celebrating Growth and Resilience: This episode is packed with insights that highlight the value of adaptability, mentorship, and continuous learning. Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical tips on personal growth, this episode is a must-listen.Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 28: Purple Heart Recipient CMSgt Ben Seekell – Your Capacity is Limitless Episode 31: Todd Henry – Choose To Be Brave Episode 35: Brook Cupps – Shaping Leaders On and Off The Court Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Mak

Send us a textSammie’s story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the impact of authentic connections. Whether reflecting on challenging moments like her early career hurdles or sharing the joy of reconnecting with old friends, Sammie’s perspective is both enlightening and motivating.Sammie’s journey is a testament to the power of change. ✅

Send us a textKai Billings, an Air Force officer and co-founder of CRE8 Force, shares his enlightening experiences from a recent conference and dives deep into the importance of fostering insightful conversations within the military community. We'll explore the genesis of CRE8 Force—a unique platform that combines podcasting, storytelling, and short-form content to tackle untold airmen stories and critical issues. Additionally, Kai opens up about his journey to the Air Force Academy, the power of teamwork, and the vital role of social media in connecting with the younger generation. Stay tuned as we discuss leadership, the impact of criticism, and some heartwarming personal anecdotes that are sure to inspire. Let's get into it!Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 28: Purple Heart Recipient CMSgt Ben Seekell – Your Capacity is Limitless Episode 31: Todd Henry – Choose To Be Brave Episode 35: Brook Cupps – Shaping Leaders On and Off The Court E

Send us a textWe dive deep into the world of leadership, personal growth, and the journey of a remarkable individual who has dedicated his life to service and self-improvement.Phil's personal history, growing up in Los Angeles and later moving to Texas to escape gang-related incidents, his love for horseback riding and dolphins, and the influence of mentors like Master Sergeant Ralph Perez, are also explored.With insights on work-life balance, making deliberate family-focused decisions, and maintaining humility in positions of power, Phil's story is a rich tapestry of resilience, leadership, and gratitude.Phil Easton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, sharing insights from his 32-year military career, his ongoing growth in emotional intelligence, and his balanced life post-retirement.Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 28: Purple Heart Recipient CMSgt Ben Seekell – Your Capacity is Limitless Episode 31: Todd Henry – Choose To Be Brav

Send us a textLanae Lang is a young military officer who shares her journey of embracing unexpected changes and finding fulfillment in her career. Lanae initially resisted moving to Colorado for her military assignment, but she ultimately grew to love it. However, the transition wasn't easy, as her move came after the end of a relationship, leaving her lonely and disconnected from friends and family.Determined to build a new social circle, Lanae leveraged social media and joined a running club to meet new people, showcasing her innate ability to connect with others. She acknowledges the challenges of balancing passions while serving, noting the varying demands of different military assignments. Lanae reflects on her Vietnamese heritage and upbringing in Springfield, Illinois, emphasizing the roles her family and church played as positive influences. Instilled with a sense of pride from her grandfathers' Air Force service, she was introduced to the ROTC program by a cousin, which set her on her milit

Send us a textEver 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 with wisdom on finding happiness in everyday moments.Discover the transformative power of gratitude as Justin shares deeply personal stories, including the impact of losing his mother to opioids. Hear about the exceptional service at the Boathouse restaurant in Orlando and how encounters with memorable individuals like Ricky the waiter can create lifelong impressions. We also delve into the exhilarating world of WWE's Money in the Bank event, using it as a metaphor for seizing life's opportunities and li

Send us a textWhat happens when a life hangs in the balance during a high-stakes NFL game? Join us as Air Force Colonel and Dr. Valerie Sams, a renowned general surgeon and trauma critical care expert, recounts her heroic efforts on the night Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest. Dr. Sams sheds light on the often overlooked emotional and mental traumas that accompany physical injuries, emphasizing the importance of addressing these invisible wounds. Hear her unique perspective on the immense pressure and expectations that come with emergency surgery and learn how she stays grounded through it all.Ever wondered how medical professionals handle the intense demands of their jobs without breaking? In this episode, we explore the vital skill of detachment in high-stress medical environments and how Dr. Sams teaches this to new trainees. Discover the delicate balance between rigorous training and providing emotional support to patients' families. Plus, we tackle the pervasive issue of impo

Send us a textWhat if mastering the art of authenticity could transform your life and career? Join us as we sit down with the extraordinary Samantha Redden, a powerhouse of talents who seamlessly juggles roles as a podcast host, senior master instructor for Cycle Bar, type 1 diabetes advocate, and motivational speaker. Samantha shares her inspiring journey, from preparing for the Mrs. Ohio America pageant to her reflections on slam poetry, a passion inherited from her poet mother. Be captivated by her anecdotes about unique pageant talents and her heartfelt advice on building confidence and self-esteem for young girls.Discover how Samantha overcomes challenges and builds resilience through her work at Cycle Bar and her podcast, "The Samantha Show." Learn how these pursuits have positively influenced her family dynamics, especially her daughter’s outlook on dreaming big and chasing goals. Samantha offers practical techniques—such as positive affirmations and visualization—that help manage nerves and

Send us a textI had the pleasure of sitting down with Jessi Smith, a shining example of courage and commitment, whose transition from high school sports to the military encapsulates the essence of determination. Our conversation takes you through the corridors of Jessi's life, where a simple gesture from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln sparked a profound journey, demonstrating that the smallest acts can leave an indelible mark on our destiny. Join us as we delve into how Jessi's stint at Applebee's unknowingly laid the groundwork for her military success, underscoring the surprising ways our past experiences can shape our future.Navigating the complex terrain of motivation and emotional intelligence, Jesse and I pull back the curtain on what drives us to excel. We dissect the myriad ways people find encouragement, whether through public recognition or the quiet satisfaction of a job well done. The conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the fabric of mental toughness, the power of per

Send us a textWhen 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 journe

Send us a textStepping 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 deter

Send us a textYou 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 m

Send us a textHave 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

Send us a textRyan 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 intelligenc

Send us a textFlying 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

Send us a textHave 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.Laught

Send us a textHave 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 para

Send us a textI'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 ove

Send us a textEver 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

Send us a textEver 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 st