Failure doesn’t knock most leaders out, drifting does. We’re walking straight into that fine line where not enough action keeps you stuck and too much unplanned action creates avoidable mistakes, then we rebuild the one thing that decides how it all turns out: your perspective.

I lay out eight ways to harden your mindset and build a “mental fortress” so setbacks stop feeling like a verdict and start becoming wisdom. We talk about training for growth instead of chasing quick success, using a simple success loop (try, reflect, improve, re-engage), and why purpose is the fuel that powers persistence when life gets a vote. You’ll hear how excuses grow when we feed them, why celebrating milestones prevents burnout, and how a burning desire keeps you moving when motivation fades.

We also get tactical with military leadership lessons you can apply anywhere: the fog of war and the fog of failure feel the same, so you need a clear end state, a steady direction, and a true north moral compass that holds under pressure. To break analysis paralysis, we lean on the 70% rule and build a battle plan you can execute now, then improve with your team.

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
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Visit Tale of Leadership 

Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 

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Dr. Travis Bradberry is the award-winning author of the #1 bestselling book The New Emotional Intelligence and the world’s leading authority on emotional intelligence, with more than 5 million books sold worldwide. With dual Ph.D.s in clinical and industrial psychology, he has dedicated his career to making emotional intelligence practical and accessible. His work has been featured in major outlets including TIME, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, Fortune, Forbes, Fast Company, and Harvard Business Review.

Driven by a passion to help people apply emotional intelligence in their everyday lives, Dr. Bradberry built a successful company that provided EQ assessments and training to Fortune 500 organizations before selling the business just prior to COVID. After briefly stepping away, he returned to writing and researching emotional intelligence, believing it is more important today than ever in helping leaders and individuals thrive.

Connect with Travis Bradberry:
-Website:https://leadx.org/ 
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisbradberry/ 

-Book: amazon.com/New-Emotional-Intelligence-Travis-Bradberry/dp/B0DVRGB979 

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

Visit Tale of Leadership 

Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 

Support the show

Visit Tale of Leadership 

Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 

Support the show

Failure can either harden you or sharpen you, and the difference usually comes down to what you believe failure means. I’m Josh McMillian, an active duty Army officer, and I’m kicking off a new leadership series called Defining Failure to help you stop treating setbacks like a verdict. If you’ve ever wondered, “Could I have avoided this?” or felt crushed by a label someone else put on your work, your career, or your character, this conversation gives you a steadier way to lead through it.

We build a foundation using the FAILING acronym and seven myths about what failure is not. I share how my view changed through self-reflection and systems engineering, where iteration and incremental improvement are the point. We talk growth mindset research, why repetition beats retreat, and how setbacks rarely happen in a vacuum. We also dig into the stories and quotes that reshape perspective, from John Maxwell’s Failing Forward to Winston Churchill, plus examples like MacArthur’s comeback and the lesson behind changing your language from “I failed” to “I learned.”

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Visit Tale of Leadership 

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Jason “Buzz” Lewis is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, coach, mentor, and leadership practitioner with more than 26 years of experience developing people and leading organizations. Today, he serves through youth sports, faith-based leadership development, and business consulting while co-founding Home Team Standard alongside his wife, Des. His passion is helping strengthen the homes, teams, and relationships that shape future leaders.

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Most teams don’t fail because they lack talent. They fail because leaders chase quick wins, cling to control, and create distance from their people. We’re raising the standard above the bar and getting specific about transformational leadership: the kind that builds trust, grows future leaders, and chooses significance over temporary success. 

I walk through 10 concrete traits you can practice right away, starting with leading like a shepherd who guides, guards, and grows without needing the spotlight. From there I dig into operating in the gray, building a real feedback loop when candid input gets scarce, and strengthening resilience so problem solving becomes a shared habit. I also unpack perspective and responsibility, plus HUGS: humility, understanding as empathy, gratitude, and a servant heart that serves without an agenda while still holding a high standard. 

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
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Christina Flach is a makeup artist and the CEO and founder of Pretty Girl Makeup. Her celebrity clientele includes Condeleeza Rice, Hilary Swank, Isiah Washington, Melissa McCarthy, Rita Moreno, Renee Zellweger, Tyler Florence and more. She has worked with high end brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton, has been featured in campaigns for Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue , and Bloomingdales, and has been featured in magazines including Vogue, Time, People, and Elle. In addition, Christina also writes articles about the best tips, tricks, and hacks in makeup and is featured as a beauty expert on California Live on NBC. 

In addition to her career, she is a devoted single mother of four, philanthropist, actively raising funds and awareness for Sepsis. She also started the Beau Friedman outdoor classroom at the Edna McGuire school in Mill Valley, California, raising money for the Baby Beau and Ken Flach educational funds at the Northern Light School in Oakland California. 

Christina uses her platform to promote the importance of feeling beautiful from the inside out. She inspires women to be the best version of themselves and how to overcome life's greatest obstacles. 

Connect with Christina Flach: 

-Website: https://www.prettygirlmakeup.com 

-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Christinaflachmakeup/ 

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion challenges listeners to stop waiting for the "right time" and start doing the work they were created to do. If you've ever felt busy but unfulfilled, capable yet stuck, this conversation will help you find the clarity to move forward with purpose. Joshua introduces a practical leadership framework built on passion, purpose, and precision—showing how each one plays a critical role in becoming the leader you're meant to be. Drawing from his own experiences, he shares how journaling, reflection, and intentional action shaped both his personal mission and the vision behind Tales of Leadership.

The episode also explores how identifying your unique strengths can help you make a greater impact in the lives of others, while offering a military-minded perspective on overcoming obstacles that block, redirect, or challenge your path. Joshua leaves listeners with practical reflection questions and actionable steps to lead with greater clarity, conviction, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that meaningful leadership doesn't begin with a promotion or permission—it begins the moment you choose to do good work where you are.

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Support the show

Jason Lee Sharp (born November 23, 1986) is a Chicago native, businessman, author, and soldier. He is the founder and CEO of Sharp Leader and Sherris Lounge, an infantry company commander in the Kansas Army National Guard, and the author of Eyes Wide Open: Learning to Suffer. Sharp also serves as a principal program manager at Leonardo DRS and is a member of the board of trustees at St. John’s Northwestern Academies. With a diverse background in leadership, business, and military service, he has focused his career development, growth, and mentorship.

Sharp’s journey began in Chicago, where he survived a challenging childhood marked by drugs, homelessness, and the streets. After graduating from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, he pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, earning a bachelor’s degree in social welfare. Sharp went on to complete an executive MBA at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His career spans multiple roles, including positions at Honeywell Aerospace and St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, before he founded his consulting firm. He joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 2018 and later became an infantry company commander. In addition to his business and military leadership roles, Sharp launched the non-profit gritKC in 2023 to support youth in Kansas City.

Connect with Jason Sharp:
-Website: https://www.learntosuffer.com/ 

-Books: https://www.learntosuffer.com/books 

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Support the show

In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion breaks down what it truly means to be “all in” as a leader, husband, parent, teammate, and human being. Leadership is not built in comfort. It’s forged through adversity, discipline, accountability, and the willingness to move forward even when life feels heavy. Joshua shares the mindset and routines that have helped him navigate pressure, uncertainty, failure, and toxic leadership environments while staying committed to a mission bigger than himself. This episode challenges listeners to stop waiting for the perfect moment and start taking purposeful action right now.

The episode dives into building an unreasonable mission, developing steadfast resolve through daily habits, surrounding yourself with unbreakable relationships, and cultivating resilience through deliberate discomfort. Joshua also discusses the real cost of toxic leadership and why developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders matters more than ever. This episode is a reminder that the world does not need perfect leaders — it needs leaders who are present, committed, and willing to step fully into the arena. Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

Visit Tale of Leadership 

Support the show

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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David Brown is a graduate of BUD/S class115 and member of Underwater Demolition Team 21 and SEAL Team 4. David went on to conduct Navy special warfare deployments in Central and South America, Europe the middle east and Africa. Later he served the federal government as a Special Agent for 28 years, retiring as a Senior Executive. David’s latest venture is a new book about perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and becoming a Navy SEAL by former Navy SEAL David "Brownie" Brown and NY Times Bestselling author Bob Gettlin.

Connect with David Brown:
-Website: www.udtdave.com
-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UDTDave

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Joe Byerly is a combat arms officer with over 20 years of experience in both combat and training environments, serving at levels ranging from the tactical to the strategic. Passionate about leader development, he created this platform to help leaders share lessons learned from their own experiences, captured in their "green notebooks." Throughout his career, he has been fortunate to have mentors who encouraged him to read, write, and publish. Joe has contributed articles to notable publications such as ARMY Magazine, Military Review, Strategy Bridge, Small Wars Journal, Task and Purpose, and Foreign Policy. Featured on Forbes and a frequent guest on leadership podcasts, Joe has also spoken at prominent events, including the Annual AUSA Conference, the Future of War Conference, and the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum Annual Conference.

Connect with Joe Byerly:
-Website: https://fromthegreennotebook.com/   
-LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-byerly-bb67a377 

Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Brad D. Smith became president of Marshall University in January 2022 after a globally recognized career in leadership and philanthropy. Formerly CEO and executive chairman of Intuit, Brad co-founded the Wing 2 Wing Foundation with his wife, Alys, to support education and entrepreneurship in Appalachia. The foundation's Ascend WV program recruits remote workers to West Virginia. A Marshall alumnus with a bachelor’s in business administration, Brad is committed to empowering future leaders. A proud “boy from Kenova,” Brad champions opportunities for his home state and its people.

 🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Mike has dedicated his career to higher education, serving as a football coach, instructor, and administrator at multiple colleges and universities. Throughout his tenure, he contributed to several conference championships, coached numerous All-Conference and All-American athletes, and mentored countless current teachers and coaches across the Midwest and beyond. As the President and Founder of Via Crucis Leadership, LLC, Mike is a dynamic speaker who brings passion, humor, and heartfelt stories to audiences. He emphasizes essential leadership skills based upon his “Handful of L’s” as a foundation for those striving to navigate and lead in today’s complex, “Chaordic” world (forces of chaos & order colliding). Guided by his mission of “1-0 Every Day in Every Way: Living life creating a transformation of self and others.” Mike inspires individuals to unlock their potential, embrace resilience, and foster meaningful change in themselves and others. Mike also serves as the President of the Chris Norton Foundation and was featured in the acclaimed documentary “7 Yards.” He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and continues to lead with purpose and impact.

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Ben Eden is a keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and the creator of the Eden Model, a transformative framework designed to help high-achieving leaders evolve from the inside out. With a background as an HR executive and as the author of How We See Ourselves, Ben has developed a unique ability to guide successful business owners and corporate leaders who, despite their outward achievements, seek greater clarity, balance, and fulfillment. Ben specializes in helping those who carry the weight of performance realign with their true selves, enabling them to lead with increased confidence, deeper connections, and greater time freedom. His work combines practical leadership wisdom with profound insights into personal identity, making him a sought-after guide for leaders looking to make meaningful transformations.

Connect with Ben Eden:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benedenspeaks/

- Book: https://howweseeourselves.com/ 

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST
✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK

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Support the show

Robert Yarnall is the VP of Development & Impact at the Robert Irvine Foundation. A retired Master Gunnery Sergeant with 25 years of service in the USMC, Robert also spent 20 years as a civics teacher and coach. In addition to his military and teaching career, he is a community leader, involved in local government and charitable organizations, and a small business owner.

Connect with Robert Yarnall:
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-yarnall-the-mission-makers/

-Website: https://robertirvinefoundation.org/

-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobertIrvineFoundation

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Isaac G. Lee, a native of Lubbock, Texas, is a graduate of Texas Tech University and a retired Marine Corps officer and aviator. Over his two decades of service, Isaac completed seven overseas deployments, including four combat tours in the Middle East. He served as the Commanding Officer of an operational CH-53E squadron before retiring in 2017. Now residing in San Diego, California, Isaac works as an operations executive and dedicates his free time to volunteering for fellow veterans and enjoying time with his family. A fan of baseball and football, Isaac is also the author of HANGAR 4, his first book.

Connect with Isaac Lee:
- Website: isaacglee.com

- IG: @isaacgleewriter

- Facebook: Isaac G Lee

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Dave Rosenberg, a former F-14 naval officer and founder of Locked on Leadership, is a top authority on radical accountability. As the premier expert in this field, he equips military-minded leaders with tactical strategies to build high-performance teams that exceed expectations. His approach goes beyond transforming individuals into self-directed achievers; it fosters a culture of excellence that remains mission-ready long after motivation fades.

Connect with Dave Rosenberg:
-LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daverosenbergspeaks/

-Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/david.rosenberg.54584

-Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lockedonleaders/

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Dr. Christina Bates is a mom to two sweet girls, an entrepreneur, a leader, and an animal lover with three dogs, two cats, one bunny, and one guinea pig. Passionate about all things military, especially weapons systems, she is dedicated to helping leaders and organizations excel and realize their full potential. She believes that God has a purpose for each of us, and in small but impactful ways, she supports leaders and members of organizations in living out that purpose.

Connect with Dr. Christina Bates:
- IG - @cmbatesconsulting 

- Linkedin – linkedin.com/in/dr-christina-bates

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Rob Roy is a 25-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, with 21 years of service in the SEAL teams, including over a decade with the elite SEAL Team Six. After retiring, he transitioned to entrepreneurship, founding Trident Coaching and Consulting to deliver transformative leadership programs. Rob is an award-winning executive coach, a sought-after public speaker, and the author of Leadership Lessons of the Navy SEALs: The Art of War. His leadership training programs, including "Leadership Under Fire" and "Battlefield to the Boardroom," have received accolades, including multiple YPO-WPO BEST of the BEST awards. Rob's insights on leadership, resilience, and team-building have been featured on Bloomberg TV, Fox News, and NBC.

Connect with Robert Roy:
-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tridenttrainingconsulting

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertroy3/

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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LTC Michael “Brabs” Brabner currently serves as the MCoE Robotics Requirements Division Air Branch Chief within the Maneuver Capabilities Development Integration Directorate. Originally from Oak Harbor, WA, Brabs enlisted in the Washington Army National Guard in 2001 following the September 11th attacks. Over his 25-year career, Brabs spent 14 years as a light infantryman, holding various leadership roles ranging from Rifleman to Battalion S3. Some of his most notable positions include serving as a Platoon Leader with the 101st Airborne Division during the surge in Baghdad, Iraq, and as the Charlie Company Commander for the 25th Infantry Division's 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment "The Wolfhounds" in RC-East Afghanistan. In 2014, Brabs transitioned to the Army's Acquisition Corps as a 51A Program Manager, where he has worked across the entire acquisition lifecycle, from JCIDS to demilitarization.

Connect with Michael Brabner:
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brabner-17b124253/

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Randy McCoin, is a proud U.S. Army soldier of 26 years and founder of the McCoin institute. Randy knows the struggles of attending college while being a full-time soldier, as it took him 13 years to earn his undergraduate degree. Since then, he has earned a Master of Education from Pennsylvania State University, a graduate certificate in International Student Services from Western Kentucky University and a graduate certificate in College Advising from Columbia University. His passion is to help people, the organization and he loves to witness others achieve their greatest potential. 

Connect with Randy McCoin:
-Website: https://lnkd.in/ewnQssYc

-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e4bbBM7c 

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Nestled in the foothills of Charlottesville, Virginia, Aerial Resupply Coffee emerges as a testament to service and community. Founded by U.S. Army Veteran Michael Klemmer, this brand embodies a dedication to honor those who serve. After a 20-year military journey and global exploration, Mike returned to Charlottesville with a passionate mission—to brew coffee that mirrored their values. This Charlottesville Coffee isn't just about premium roasts; it's a tribute to veterans, first responders, active military, and their families. Aerial Resupply Coffee fosters a community that cherishes both exceptional coffee and a shared commitment to service. Each carefully crafted blend tells a story of unwavering dedication, honoring the heroes and their supportive families. 

Connect with Michael Klemmer: 

-Website: https://aerialresupplycoffee.com/ 

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Dr. Anthony Randall is the President and Founder of Vanguard XXI, where he specializes in leadership development and executive coaching, transforming leaders and organizations across various sectors. With over 28 years of high-performance leadership experience, Dr. Randall has coached more than 17,000 professionals in the U.S. Army, Special Operations, Major League Baseball, NCAA Division 1 Athletics, and Fortune 100 and 500 companies. A retired Lieutenant Colonel, he served in six combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and has held roles as an Army Combat Arms Officer, Army Ranger, Chaplain, and Ethics Instructor. Dr. Randall is a certified executive coach with seven certifications, and his thought leadership, combined with his expertise in character development, culture, and strategy, has made him a sought-after speaker. He has authored three books, including the international bestseller Practicing Excellence, and is a graduate of the United States Military Academy and Fuller Seminary, with advanced degrees in Divinity, Theology, and Leadership.

Connect with Dr. Anthony Randall:
-Website: https://www.vanguardxxi.com/
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanguard-xxi/

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Ryan is a serial entrepreneur and life long learner that enjoys the pursuit of business while being a positive influence in his community and using his business platforms to help support causes he’s passionate about.  He started 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company 10 years ago and is in the trenches running the daily operations with the goal of becoming a national, household brand.  He has also owned a restaurant for the past 22 years and has owned a motel for 8 years…both of which are still in operation.  He is passionate about using his business acumen to help support fellow entrepreneurs and is always keeping his eyes open for the next opportunity.

Connect with Ryan Thompson: 

-Website: https://10thwhiskey.com/ 

🫡🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Derik Kearns enlisted in the Army in 2002 following the events of 9/11. Throughout his military service, he completed two tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Amidst personal challenges, he has experienced marriage, divorce, and remarriage, and is now a proud parent to two daughters and a stepson. This summer, Derik will be attending the Sergeant Majors Academy at Fort Bliss, continuing his commitment to leadership and service within the armed forces.

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Captain Joseph Polanin, U.S. Navy (retired), is an award-winning CEO and a disabled Navy combat Veteran who served three decades leading elite teams to succeed on complex missions in high-risk environments despite every obstacle. He has 20+ years as a successful Commanding Officer, Task Force Commander, and Director of Operations (CEO/COO) for globally-integrated organizations, led several lasting enterprise transformations, and founded The Alaka’i Leadership Group, LLC, a Strategic Accelerator providing unmatched fractional C-Suite leadership in 2020.

Connect with Joseph Polanin: 

-Website: https://www.thealakaigroup.com/ 

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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John Troxell is a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major who served nearly 38 years in uniform. He held the position of Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (SEAC), serving as the senior non-commissioned officer in the entire U.S. military. Known for his energy, authenticity, and selfless service, John continues to lead through mentorship, public speaking, and writing.

Connect with John Troxell

• New Book: Read Here
• LinkedIn: John Troxell

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Dr. Ron Stottz shares his transformational journey from Marine Corps service to becoming a mindfulness-based leadership coach who helps executives access higher states of consciousness and leadership effectiveness.
Connect with Ron Stotts: -Website: ronstotts.com

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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🎙 Episode Title: The Luckiest Man in the World – Leadership Lessons from 102-Year-Old WWII Veteran “Papa Jake”

In this powerful episode of Tales of Leadership, I sit down with Jake Larson—affectionately known as “Papa Jake”—a 102-year-old World War II veteran and national treasure whose story has captivated millions across the world.

Born during the Great Depression and raised on a farm in rural Minnesota, Jake’s journey took him from poverty to the front lines of history. At just 15 years old, he joined the National Guard by lying about his age. That bold decision would place him on the path to help plan the D-Day invasion as part of G3 Operations. Armed with a skill most overlooked—typing—Jake was responsible for processing the very orders that sent thousands of men onto Omaha Beach, including himself.

In this episode, we explore:

• How a typing class in high school saved his life and shaped his service
• What it was like growing up during the Great Depression
• His harrowing first-person account of surviving Omaha Beach under fire
• The leadership philosophy he carried throughout the war—and still lives by today
• How humility, mentorship, and storytelling can carry a legacy across generations

📲 Follow Papa Jake & Learn More:

• TikTok: @storytimewithpapajake
• Instagram: @storytimewithpapajake
• Book: The Luckiest Man in the World → Amazon

🫡 Our mission is simple: To develop Purposeful Accountable Leaders — PALs — who do the right thing because it is the right thing to do and choose people over ego. Tales of Leadership shares real-world lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tools that equip you to step into the arena, lead with purpose, live with integrity, and make an inspired impact. Whether you are leading yourself, your family, an organization, or your community, we stand beside you as you become the leader this world needs.

 👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/

🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando

👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com

Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.
 — Joshua K. McMillion

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Lon Stroschein is the founder of Normal 40 and best-selling author of The Trade. With a career spanning international expansion, leading a $100M division, closing a $2.1B public deal, founding a private wealth group, and serving in the U.S. Senate, Lon knows success at the highest levels.

But his defining moment wasn’t in the boardroom—it was when he chose to walk away and chart a new path. Now, Lon helps high-performing professionals—executives, physicians, attorneys, military officers, and business owners—reclaim purpose and write the next chapter of their lives with intention.

Each episode dives into the pivotal transitions that shape our lives and careers, guided by the Normal 40 process—a proven roadmap for meaningful change.

This podcast is for anyone standing at the edge of "what's next"—ready to trade comfort for clarity. Lon’s mission? To inspire transformation in 1,000 lives. Yours might be one of them.

Connect with Lon Stroschein:
-Website: https://www.normal40.com/ 

-LinkedIn: lon-stroschein-normal40   

-Twitter: LonStroschein

-YouTube: @normal40   

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Transitional leaders view people as objects to be used for selfish gain. If you choose this easy path, you may see temporary success, but you can also cause devastating effects in both your life and your organization. Below are ten habits to avoid to prevent becoming a transitional leader.

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🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Brent Pohlman is an executive leader at Midwest Laboratories, where he has been instrumental in driving a positive impact on the lives of employees, clients, and communities for over seven years. At Midwest Laboratories, Brent is known for fostering a culture of excellence and trust, leveraging core competencies in innovation, teamwork, and dynamic service to benefit staff and partners. A published author with the latest book, "Leaders Look Within," released in May 2023, Brent shares invaluable insights on leading from the heart, coaching others, and nurturing a culture of trust and excellence. With an MBA in human resources and a dual BA and BS in business administration and secondary education, Brent's passion for continual learning and growth as a leader is evident.

Connect with Brent Polhman:
-Twitter: @bpohlman

-Instagram: @bpmwlo

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bpohlman/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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We are continuing with the House of Leadership (HOL) series. Throughout the series, my goal is not to persuade you toward the six principles I've selected. However, I do want to inspire you to critically think about what your principles will be. The best mentor we have is ourselves. Why? Because we spend literally every waking moment with ourselves. Remember, the first leadership phase is self-leadership, a fact throughout our journey to become Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs). Start discovering who you are and become the leader your team and this world need. Here are the first three of six principles that guide me, which I call BAD HUG.

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Morgan Sullivan is a father to four exceptional children and a husband to a wife he believes he doesn't deserve. Morgan grew up in a small town in southeastern Ohio, where his days were spent working on a farm and engaging in sports. He pursued higher education at Heidelberg College and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. On September 12th, 2002, Morgan joined the Army, dedicating over 20 years of service that led him to various states and countries. His military career exposed him to diverse experiences, allowing him to meet exceptional individuals and navigate exciting and challenging scenarios. Morgan has extended his leadership to coaching baseball, softball, boys’ and girls’ basketball, and football across developmental leagues to high school varsity levels. Currently, he serves as a high school athletic director, focusing on supporting the coaches and student-athletes at West Liberty-Salem High School.

Connect with Morgan Sullivan:
-Website: www.betteryouthcoaching.com
-LinkedIn: Coach Morgan Sullivan, CIC

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Leanne Meyer is the author of Climbing the Spiral Staircase, a guide for women seeking to gain control of their professional paths. She directs Carnegie Mellon Women’s Executive Leadership Academy and is the former director of the university’s Accelerate Leadership Center. With more than thirty years of senior-level consulting and executive development experience, Leanne provides evidence-based methods to change business practices. Her work helps leaders navigate critical inflection points, refocus professional identities and develop new skills. She consults with Fortune 100 companies and holds a master’s degree in industrial psychology from the University of Johannesburg. She is passionate about helping leaders reinvigorate their lives through the reclamation of passion and purpose. 

Connect with Leanne Meyer:
-Website: https://leannemeyer.com/ 

-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leanne.meyer.77 

-IG: https://www.instagram.com/leanne.m.meyer/ 

-Twitter: https://twitter.com/leanne_meyer 

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannemeyer/ 

-Book: https://leannemeyer.com/book/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Colin Boyle is an Infantryman in the US Army with 17 years of experience and a combat tour to Afghanistan and multiple rotations around the globe. He was born in Tazewell, VA and settled in the suburbs just outside Richmond, VA where he spent most of his time as a child and young adult. He has held many jobs, from a dishwasher at iHop to a platoon sergeant in the Army. Colin is married to his wife Meghan, and they have one son, Braxton, and two dogs, Lilly and Goose and live in Temple, TX.

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Dr. Dave Braun is the co-founder and president of Oola. With a deep-rooted commitment to empowering individuals to find balance and transform their lives, Dr. Dave Braun has spent over a decade guiding people towards holistic well-being. As President, he plays a pivotal role in shaping Oola’s strategic direction, leading the team in creating science-based products and transformative programs that promote life balance.

Connect with David Braun:
-Website: https://lnkd.in/eBwfVBK9  

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Vision is among the most overused words in the civilian and military world. Often, leaders create short-term concepts that only impact the organization when they are in leadership positions. However, a vision must outlive you and scare others due to its sheer scope. Take Bill Gates, for example. His vision is to place one PC on every desk in the world. That requires long-term commitment built on shared values. When leaders cast a vision for their future, they force collaboration and communication in their team and personal lives. To achieve the extraordinary, you must frame the challenges relative to your capacity. Too small of a vision leads to expected results; too bold, it becomes unrealistic, and you fail to develop the required resources. I've created a system called VISION to help you break through the mental fog and start building traction for your personal and professional life. Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) inspire themselves and others by creating a realistic vision aligned with their heads and hearts.

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-article24

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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David Vardeman is a U.S. Patriot. Over the last ten years, David has developed a deep understanding of service, sacrifice, and selfless giving to both the US Military Active Duty and US Veteran Communities. His tireless work is for the benefit of those in need. He has had direct access to both active duty and retired Flag Officers at all levels, but he has really found a calling to help military of all positions and experience levels. His deep knowledge on multiple military verticals allows him to listen to an individual, regarding what is important to them, rather than any personal agenda. He specializes in all military health issues, military occupational transition, and military historical preservation. Currently, David has little free time, but the rewards he gets from helping others brings unmatched spiritual satisfaction. 

Connect with David Vardeman:
-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/gFANcJ2j

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Stephen J. Morris is a passionate and experienced leader with over 21 years of combined service in the Military and Corporate sectors. As a United States Army veteran, Stephen has commanded and led combat and non-combat deployments across the globe, honing a deep understanding of leadership under pressure. After transitioning to civilian life, he faced the challenges of adapting to a new work environment and found his calling as a Leadership Development and Career Coach. Drawing inspiration from the exceptional leaders who shaped his own journey, he founded Renowned Leadership, a platform dedicated to helping individuals at all levels, from CEOs to team members, enhance their leadership skills and career strategies. Stephen believes in developing authentic leaders with unwavering character and integrity, guiding them toward becoming leaders whom everyone is eager to follow.

Connect with Stephen Morris:
-Website: https://lnkd.in/gcyahWnH    

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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David Goode is a Principal Operations Lead with Chick-fil-A Corporate in Atlanta, partnering with Operators and Operator Groups to execute their business strategy in order to achieve their vision and goals. He serves 30 Operators with 35 restaurants in Charleston SC, Newport News VA, and Virginia Beach VA. Prior to his current role, he served a 30-year career in the Air Force, retiring as a Colonel in 2022. During his Air Force career, he commanded at group and squadron levels, and held various operational and staff positions within logistics, strategy development, and legislative affairs. He volunteers as a board member for the Georgia Veterans Service Foundation, as well as a student mentor at the University of Georgia. He is married to his wife Kristyn, of 23 years, and they have two daughters--Ashlyn 19, and Avery 17.

Connect with David Goode:
-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/gNQRiZQB

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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In this article my goal is to walk you through another acronym that I have created called TIME. Time is one of our most important resources; as a leader, more importantly, a purposeful, accountable leader, we need to weaponize it. Unquestioningly, allowing the day to bend your actions results in a loss of traction and, eventually, burnout. If you cannot guide your path, you will be five years older one day, wondering where time has gone. To create growth, you MUST be willing to do hard things that require Routines, Accountability, and Discipline (RAD). One of these is developing a battle plan for our day. Let's get to work!

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-time-management

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Retired Major General Keith Thurgood is a Clinical Professor of Healthcare Leadership and Management at the Jindal School of Management of the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) where he also leads the graduate program in Healthcare Leadership and Management. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Marketing and Entrepreneurship at UTD. In addition to his responsibilities at UT Dallas, Dr. Thurgood is a faculty member and senior advisor for the Thayer Leader Development Group (West Point, New York).

Retired Lieutenant General L. Neil Thurgood is the special advisor to the UAH president for military affairs and technology. Prior to his appointment at UAH, he served as the director for hypersonics, directed energy, space, and rapid acquisition in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (acquisition, logistics, and technology) at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.

Connect with Keith & Neil Thurgood:
-Neil’s LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eK9PJit2 
-Keith’s LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ehB75VBN

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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After joining the US Army in 2005, Nate Boyer earned the Green Beret in 2006. He served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, completed missions in Israel, Bulgaria, and Greece, and played football for the Texas Longhorns as a standout long snapper. Nate's received awards like the Disney Spirit Award and the Legacy Award, showcasing his inspiring presence in college football. He's also been deeply involved in charity work, served on a fishing boat, volunteered in refugee camps, and continues to engage with various Veterans' Service Organizations. Nate’s powerful belief in "Anything is Possible" fuels his talks on finding purpose, resonating with audiences of all backgrounds—students, veterans, professionals, and more.

Connect with Nate Boyer:
Mission Six Zero: https://lnkd.in/gPD-34Rr   
MVP: https://vetsandplayers.org/founders
Personal LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/gpwB9Mzv 

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Improving student outcomes is AJ Crabill's focus. He serves as Conservator at DeSoto, Texas ISD. During his guidance, DeSoto improved from F ratings in academics, finance, and governance to B ratings. He's also Faculty at the Leadership Institute of Nevada and Director of Governance at the Council of the Great City Schools. He served as Deputy Commissioner at the Texas Education Agency and spearheaded reforms as board chair of Kansas City Public Schools that doubled the percentage of students who are literate and numerate. Crabill is a recipient of the Education Commission of the State's James Bryant Conant Award. 

Connect with AJ Crabill:
-Website: www.GreatOnTheirBehalf.com   
-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eGPsGUzb

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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We have all heard the term work and family balance; however, I have learned a critical piece is missing from this equation: self. Achieving a sustainable balance takes the trinity of work, family, and self (WFS). First, leadership is emotionally and mentally demanding; without checks and balances, you and your family will suffer. Before you can authentically show up personally or professionally, take the time to invest in yourself. Think of this as a battery. Work demands a portion of your power. The remaining balance is shared between yourself and your family. The true test of leadership is when you leave work or retire, will someone be waiting for you at home?

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-article25

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

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John Ballenger has spent over +20 years serving in the Marine Corps and was the pilot for Marine One, serving directly for two presidents. John has led over 800 Marines, including in combat, and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Today, John is a highly successful consultant and coach for leaders seeking to grow their businesses, lead effective teams, and faithfully love their families.

Connect with John Ballenger: 

-Website: https://www.michaelandjohn.com/ 

-LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ballenger53 

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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- Joshua K. McMillion

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Clint Keeley is a retired command sergeant major with two decades of dedicated service in the Army, he is profoundly thankful for the invaluable skills and experiences he gained. Currently, Clint is an integral part of an exceptional company that places a high premium on embracing diversity and recognizing our shared humanity. His professional focus revolves around the dynamic field of consulting, with a particular passion for change management. Clint leverages his expertise in Leadership Development/Training, Project Management, and Coaching to facilitate transformative journeys. Witnessing individuals flourish and surpass their aspirations is their greatest joy!

Connect with Clint Keeley:
-Website: www.propeller.com
-LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/clint-keeley

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Paul Sean Hill, a distinguished author and speaker, focuses on applying deliberate leadership principles to lead high-performing teams across diverse industries. He currently serves on the NASA Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel, providing critical insights into NASA's management of human spaceflight. With 25 years at NASA, he began by developing space station construction techniques and later served as a Space Shuttle and International Space Station Flight Director, including leading the return-to-flight mission on STS-114 after the Columbia accident.

In subsequent roles, Paul served as the Director of Mission Operations for human spaceflight from 2007 to 2014. During this time, he revolutionized the leadership culture, reduced costs, and increased capabilities in mission planning, training, and Mission Control. Before NASA, Paul served in the USAF in military satellite operations, holding aerospace engineering degrees from Texas A&M University. He and his wife, both Texas Aggies, raised two remarkable Aggie women, marking the fourth generation in their family.

Connect with Paul Hill:
-Website: https://lnkd.in/gk6KEWJR
-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e8NGGVY3

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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William "Bill" Leahy, founder of Renaissance Reliability (RR), is a visionary leader on a mission to elevate American manufacturing to global heights by championing innovation, reliability, and manufacturing effectiveness. In the aftermath of his brother's tragic suicide, a USMC Infantry officer, in December 2022, Bill turned personal grief into a commitment to combat veteran suicide. This led to the establishment of UNTURNING STEEL, aimed at bringing veterans and manufacturing together. The convergence of these missions has birthed a collective goal – "Reimagining what it means to be MADE IN AMERICA." Bill's dedication earned UNTURNING STEEL the prestigious 2024 “Best Cultural Innovation Award” from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville (UTK) and Everything Reliability. Bill has excelled in various roles in his manufacturing career, demonstrating expertise in Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM), and other continuous improvement methodologies. A former US Army Captain, Bill's leadership journey began at the United States Military Academy, where he was an NCAA Division 1 Army West Point hockey player. His academic accomplishments include a BS from West Point, an MBA from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and a Reliability & Maintainability Implementation Certification (RMIC) from the University of Tennessee. Bill, residing in Southeastern New England, is dedicated to his family and contributes to the community as a Thames Club member and volunteers as a hockey and soccer coach for local colleges and youth sports organizations.

Connect with William Leahy:
-Website: https://unturningsteel.com
-Website: Rtwo.info
-Linkedin: (25) UNTURNING STEEL: Overview | LinkedIn
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555229873741

 
🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

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Our capacity for increased responsibility in our leadership journey separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. As our influence grows and we gain new titles, we face new challenges. Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) understand where they are on their leadership journey and what is required to continue growing. How? Transformational leaders have Leadership Intelligence (LI). I defined LI as aligning emotional intelligence with the organization's needs and the operating environment. LI, at its core, means the less influence you have in your organization, the more you must do personally to succeed.

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-article24

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Join the conversation as Bryan Sisk, a seasoned US Army veteran, unveils the tapestry of leadership that's been woven through his 20 years of military service and beyond. He shares his own story and casts a light on the qualities that make for steadfast leaders in any field. Currently, Bryan is the Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive at Memorial Hermann Health System, one of the largest integrated healthcare delivery systems in Southeast Texas, 32,000 employees, including 12,000 nurses.

This episode takes you behind the scenes of resilience and dedication, where Bryan's narrative intersects with the relentless spirit of nurses during the pandemic and the innovation that has since reshaped healthcare. We celebrate the unsung heroes on the front lines and the sparks of change they've ignited, leading to new practices prioritizing well-being and patient care. It's a heartening reminder of the need for cultures that champion innovation and the significance of empowering those dealing directly with life's most critical moments.

Connect with Bryan Sisk:
-Website:https://lnkd.in/eQuQyxTy

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Rob Cressy is a world class growth coach committed to helping leaders create powerfully in business & life for the long haul. With expertise in self-mastery, brand building, and leadership development, he helps you build better mindsets, habits, and routines to keep winning. Rob lives by eight core values that are foundational to who he is. These core values include radiate positivity, always learning, extreme ownership, yes and, live in action, be relentless, do what’s right, and talk with candor.

Connect with Rob Cressy:
-Website: http://www.robcressy.com

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Mike Kaeding is the CEO of Norhart. Norhart designs, builds, and rents apartments. They are transforming the way apartments are built and managed by incorporating technologies and efficiencies that have revolutionized other industries and led to high-quality, cost-effective projects. Mike’s parents started their family business. But just a few years after joining the business, Mike’s father unexpectedly passed away. Suddenly, Mike had what felt like the weight of the world on his shoulders. He had to lead this business with no preconceived notion of "the way things are done" in this industry. He was struggling to the point where the city briefly shut him down. This shattered his world. Norhart just naively started to solve problems after that incident. And that led to magic. 

Norhart began changing the way construction is done. Starting with an attractive culture unique to the construction industry, they hired the best talent. Together Norhart solved chronic construction inefficiencies, applied techniques from manufacturing, and integrated traditionally unaffiliated trades. This resulted in higher quality and lower cost projects. Norhart’s mission is to solve America’s housing shortage by transforming the way apartments are built and managed. And in doing so we will improve the way we all live.

 🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

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- Joshua K. McMillion

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In the previous episode, I reviewed how to find your core values using the acronym VALUE (See Episode 70). In this episode, my goal is to define and share my top three core values clearly. I hope to inspire you to discover your own. These are my top three values I place above all others when confronted with challenging situations in life. May they guide and beacons to motivate you in discovering yours!

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-article23-respect-integrity-duty

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Cheryl Lawson-Wright, a devoted community volunteer, educator, and mentor, is deeply committed to guiding youth and young adults through high school completion and college admissions while also supporting the underprivileged, disabled, and trauma survivors. A fierce advocate for equality and justice, she champions a toxic-free life encompassing mind, body, and spirit. As a 12-year breast cancer survivor, Cheryl actively participates in the Jacksonville Mammoglams Dragon Boat Team, connecting with survivors worldwide to compete for the cause while promoting fitness. She passionately comforts cancer survivors and serves the elderly, youth, and vulnerable individuals, embodying a voice for the voiceless. Co-founder of Partners in Education, founder of Real Hope4Help, Inc., and a certified Mental Health and Wellness Advocate, Cheryl shines in modeling engagements and writing, reflected in magazines, websites, and social media. Her radiant presence is described as witnessing light in motion and knowing she is experiencing the presence of God and Spirit in action. Cheryl's infectious zest for life inspires others to be their best selves, showcased in her newly published book "Jewels of My Journey," where she creatively overcomes obstacles and thrives confidently and peacefully. She generously shares her uplifting and thought-provoking words, empowering others to embrace the impact of their own writing.

Connect with Cheryl Lawson-Wright: 
-Website: Realhope4help.com

 
🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

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- Joshua K. McMillion

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John Teichert is a retired U.S. Air Force brigadier general and former Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force, International Affairs and brings a wealth of leadership and strategic expertise. His extensive career spans roles as a combat and test pilot, base commander, and senior defense official in challenging environments like Iraq. With a focus on whole-of-government national security strategy, John has a $240 billion security cooperation portfolio, and he's contributed prolifically to discussions on leadership, innovation, technology, and international affairs. He engages widely with international media and is the founder of Capital Leadership LLC, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders. John is also Amazons #1 best selling author of the book, “BOOM! Leadership that Breaks Barriers, Challenges Convention and Ignites Innovation.” 

Connect with John Teichert: 

-Website: https://johnteichert.com/

-Book:https://lnkd.in/g52tEAJb 

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Robert Irvine is a world-renowned chef, successful entrepreneur, and unwavering champion for our nation's military. As the beloved host of Food Network's hit series Restaurant: Impossible, he has transformed the lives and fortunes of countless struggling restaurateurs in nearly 300 episodes and counting. With a diverse portfolio, including Robert Irvine’s Public House in Las Vegas, Fresh Kitchen by Robert Irvine at the Pentagon, FitCrunch protein bars, Robert Irvine Foods' restaurant-quality dishes, and Boardroom Spirits, producing Irvine’s Vodka and Irvine’s American Dry Gin, he's well-versed in running prosperous businesses. Robert's philanthropic dedication shines through his various enterprises, with a portion of their proceeds benefiting the Robert Irvine Foundation, established in 2014 to support our servicemen, women, and first responders through initiatives like service dog training, mental health services, mobility devices, and more. His selfless contributions have earned him esteemed civilian honors, such as Honorary Chief Petty Officer of the United States Navy and the Medal of Honor Society's Bob Hope Award, in recognition of his service on multiple USO tours. Beyond his iconic role on Restaurant: Impossible, Robert has graced a multitude of TV shows and delights audiences with Robert Irvine LIVE, an unpredictable interactive cooking challenge performed in packed theaters. An accomplished author with four cookbooks to his name, his latest release, "Overcoming Impossible," delves into business leadership, drawing from his extensive entrepreneurial experience. 

Connect with Robert Irvine:

-Website: https://chefirvine.com/
-LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/gNQRiZQB

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Core values are part of every leader's House of Leadership (HoL). But what are core values, how can you find yours, and why are they important? In this episode, I will share a framework I have developed, VALUE, to guide you in answering these questions. After listening to this, I challenge you to find your own and inject them into your daily actions and decisions.

Link to Article: https://www.mcmillionleadershipcoaching.com/blog/tales-of-leadership-article22-find-your-core-values

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Kenneth Danos is a combat veteran, executive leadership coach, Military Mentor, and board member for the National Board for Leadership Certification who is on a mission to elevate 1 million professionals through training, coaching, mentorship, and certification. He believes that every person is entitled to Outstanding Leadership and has committed to elevating the level of worldwide leadership and unlocking human potential.

Connect with Kenneth Danos: 

-Website: https://nationalboardofleaders.org/ 

-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-national-board-for-leadership-certification/ 

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Chad Brown is a leadership engagement expert. He coaches executives and entrepreneurs in the art and science of leadership for themselves, their teams, and clients to create new, unprecedented results and experience fulfillment in their work. Chad is an Associate Partner at Take New Ground and the host of The Naked Leadership Podcast with the founding partners of TNG. Over the last five years, Chad has trained and developed leaders at globally recognized brands like Lulu Lemon and Ironclad Document Services, along with many burgeoning start-ups.

Connect with Chad Brown:
-Website: https://takenewground.com/
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-brown-leadership-coach-477a7015/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Michael G. Frino is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Beekeeper; Pollinating Your Organization for Transformative Growth. Michael has over 20 years of professional experience working for Fortune 500 companies in sales, leadership, and organizational development across the payroll/human resources, pharmaceutical, and med-tech industries.

Katie P. Desiderio is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Beekeeper; Pollinating Your Organization for Transformative Growth and counts her blessings starting with the people in her life, which guides her approach to work where her focus is on every organization’s most important asset – you! Along with her work as a Professor of Management and tenured faculty member at Moravian University, Desiderio is Principal Partner in Learning of Proximal Development, LLC, an authorized DiSC partner, specializing in leadership development and the advancement of performance through learning.

Connect with Michael and Katie:
- Website:www.leadershipfables.com
-Linktree: https://linktr.ee/leadershipfables
- New Book: The Beekeeper: Pollinating Your Organization for Transformative Growth: Katie P. Desiderio, Michael G. Frino: 9781394165261: Amazon.com: Books

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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So what is meekness anyway? Webster's dictionary defines meekness as "the quality or state of being meek: a mild, moderate, humble, or submissive quality." My definition of meekness is slightly different. You, the leader, command your organization with humility, understanding, and gratitude (HUG). To achieve this, leaders must actively listen and create a shield wall to protect their team from the dangers of the outside environment.

Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. 25 Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. 26 But anyone who hears my and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. 27 When the rains and floods come, and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash. - Matthew 7:24-27

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Jessie Kanzer is the award-winning author of Don’t Just Sit There, DO NOTHING and Unlocking Your Inner Zelensky. She was born in the Soviet Union and left at age eight. A former reporter and actress, she once found herself on the set of a Zelensky film and has been following his story ever since. Kanzer’s writing has appeared in The New York Times, USA Today, the Washington Post, and many other publications. She's been interviewed on podcasts and TV programs across the country. She lives with her husband, two daughters, and two cats in Dobbs Ferry, NY.

Connect with Jessie Kanzer:
- Website: https://jessiekanzer.com/
- New Book: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250894779/unlockingyourinnerzelensky

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Dr. Edwin Adams is known as The Leadership Alchemist & founder of DisruptComfort.com. His mission is to support individuals and organizations in getting unstuck and achieving more. As a Maxwell Leadership Executive Team member, Dr. Adams has established himself as a key opinion leader and development expert whose passion resides in helping people disrupt their comfort zones to become high-performance, non-dependent people. He hosts the Aesthetics of Leadership Podcast and published author, having penned a personal development book, Misguided in the Magnolia, A Journey to Self-Awareness.

Connect with Edwin Adams:
- Website: DisruptComfort.com & AestheticsOfLeadership.com  
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwinhadams/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
✅ GIVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Chris Grainger is the Founder of The Lion Within Us and has a passion for serving others.  He is building a community that provides Christian men encouragement to become the leaders God intends them to be.  Chris connects with others by sharing personal stories of professional success, hurdles encountered, and how every circumstance is an opportunity to build the Kingdom.  He helps men stand firm in the faith by strengthening areas of Health (Mind/Body) Wealth (Careers/Finances) and Self (Husbands/Fathers/Brothers in Christ). At home, Chris is married to his wonderful wife Rebekah and has 3 awesome daughters (Chloe 12, Ava 10, and Lily 16 months) and a son Judah who was born in November 2022!  He enjoys working out, Harley’s, serving at church, coaching youth sports, and anything that involves getting outside.

Connect with Chris Grainger:
- Website: https://thelionwithin.us/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Every leader has a leadership philosophy, but not every leader can clearly communicate it. To be a Purposeful Accountable Leader (PAL), you must consider your leadership philosophy. A way to achieve this is by creating a symbolic house encompassing your leadership style. The HOL was developed by Dr. J.R Flatter and removes the typical leadership philosophy with a visual aid in four steps. First, a leader must determine what their leadership foundation will be. Second, leaders create the four walls using characteristics and values. Third, leaders choose the components of their home consisting of the principles and beliefs. Finally, each house must have a roof, which should take them somewhere. You are leading in the dark unless you give intentional time to think about the leader you choose to be. Below are the seven steps I have developed using the acronym INSPIRE to help you craft your HOL:

“Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be.”– Ralph Waldo Emerson

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Catherine Zack is on a mission to put the tools of immediate stress relief in as many hands as possible. A former corporate litigator turned meditation teacher and mindfulness coach, Catherine helps people create personal “stress culture revolutions” to redefine the way they pursue success, embody leadership, and access something even better than work/life balance: wholeness.

Connect with Catherine Zack:
-  Website: https://www.catherinezack.com/

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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SGM Ogle entered the Army as an Infantryman in May 1990 and has climbed the ranks from PV2 to Command Sergeant Major. Throughout his 33 years of service, Sergeant Major Ogle has proven his commitment by never walking away from a challenging assignment, even when outside his comfort zone. He has served at every level of NCO leadership and multiple Senior NCO Leadership positions throughout his career, including First Sergeant, Battalion Command Sergeant Major, Commandant and Regimental CSM of an NCO Academy, and the G3 Operations Sergeant Major. He is also a part of Operation Boot Crew, a non-profit organization that supports deployed troops. He currently serves as the senior enlisted advisor for the Florida Counterdrug Task Force in the Florida National Guard.

Connect with Lawrence:
Facebook: Lawrence M Ogle / Operationbootcrew
Instagram:  @infantryguru
Twitter: @infantryguru
TikTok: @infantryguru

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Sonja "Dynamo" Price, known as the Career Whisperer, is a top career strategist, salary advisor, and leadership coach, dedicated to helping mid-level corporate professionals find greater meaning, achieve better work-life balance, and significantly increase their pay. With a world-renowned presence, she's graced stages worldwide, including the Women's Economic Forum in New Delhi, India, where she received an Honorable Woman of Excellence Award and Business World recognition. Sonja's insights have reached audiences on podcasts, radio shows, and prestigious events like the Project Management Institute and General Assembly. She's authored two books, "The Pivot Point System: 5 Keys to Transform Your Career, Health, and Wealth" and "The Infinite Leader: How to Increase Your Influence and Expand Your Impact." With a unique background that includes working with Tony Robbins and training with Al Gore as a Climate Reality Leader, Sonja is the founder of the Dynamo Career Accelerator, helping clients land dream jobs with companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Sonja holds a Master's Degree in Leadership and Organizational Development and is a Certified Career and Executive Coach, driven by her passion for empowering employees and conscious companies to shape a thriving future for all. When she's not transforming careers, Sonja enjoys skiing, playing piano, and diving into strategy board games. Tune in for invaluable career insights and tips that you'll wish you heard earlier in your journey, and supercharge your path to success, balance, and financial growth!

Connect with Sonja:
-Website: www.DynamoCareers.com
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DynamoCareers

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
✅ GIVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Throughout this journey, we've explored practical strategies to succeed and avoid pitfalls at each phase. Leadership is a transformative journey where we forge our own path toward growth. Each step we take is a small action that contributes to unlocking our full leadership potential. Remember, regardless of where you currently stand in the Six POL, you are a leader. As you progress and gain more influence, each mastered phase becomes a metaphorical support beam for your leadership bridge. Rushing through the phases weakens the bridge, risking its collapse. Committing to a growth mindset rather than a goal-oriented mindset is essential to reach your peak. In this final post, we'll explore seven powerful strategies that Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) utilize to thrive in summit leadership.

"The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves."
- Ray Kroc

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

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Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

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Edmund Chien is a highly experienced multi-disciplined finance professional with over 20 years of experience. He’s a former Private Equity specialist, licensed Stock Broker, and Life Insurance advisor for high net worth investors and family offices. He began his career as an infantry trained airborne medic with the Canadian Army. He was also a full-time army recruiter and basic training instructor. Today, Edmund is retired from financial services and the military and focuses on pursuing his passion of coaching. 

👉🏽How to Contact Him: 

Website: Edmund Chien 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edmundchien/ 

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
✅ GIVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ SUPPORT

Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

Visit Tale of Leadership 

Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 

Support the show

Robert Jordan is the CEO of InterimExecs, which matches top executives with companies around the world. Based on research with thousands of leaders and companies, he and Olivia Wagner wrote Right Leader Right Time: Discover Your Leadership Style for a Winning Career and Company, and have launched the FABS Leadership Assessment, a free assessment at RightLeader.com designed to help leaders and organizations perform better. Jordan also authored How They Did It: Billion Dollar Insights from the Heart of America, and helped publish Start With No, Jim Camp’s bestseller on negotiation. Robert understands that having the right leadership team is key to hiring and retaining top talent and oftentimes the leadership a company needs is not the leadership it has…yet.

👉🏽How to Contact Him:
Website: Interimexecs.com
Twitter: @interim_execs
YouTube: InterimExecs
LinkedIn: @interimexecs

🫡 My Why: I’ve seen the cost of poor leadership — how it can destroy morale, break trust, and in the worst cases, lead to lives lost, including through suicide. That’s why I’ve committed my life to helping others lead with purpose. Through Tales of Leadership, I share real stories and actionable insights on how to overcome adversity and become the kind of leader people remember for the right reasons.

👉🏽Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/talesofleadership

✅ SHARE THIS PODCAST
✅ GIVE A 5-STAR REVIEW
✅ SUPPORT

Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!

Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
- Joshua K. McMillion

Visit Tale of Leadership