Lieutenant Colonel Michael Brabner’s journey from infantry combat leader to military robotics innovator shows how leadership can transform even the largest organizations. In this episode, he shares raw lessons from combat, where the absence of simple tools like soldier-borne sensors cost lives, and how those experiences fueled his drive to reshape the military’s approach to unmanned systems. Brabner reveals how visionary leadership—rooted in Boy Scout values, hardened in Ranger School, and tested in combat—has turned fragile, expensive assets into modular, mission-ready tools that give soldiers a decisive edge. His story is a powerful reminder that disruptive change requires both innovation and leaders willing to challenge the status quo.

From Army Ranger to chaplain, Dr. Anthony Randall shares powerful lessons on character-based leadership, coaching culture, and embracing work-life rhythm over balance. This episode explores the soul of transformational leadership—and why prudent risk is essential for growth in any arena.

SGM Derek Kearns shares hard-won lessons from over two decades in the Army—covering attention to detail, adaptive leadership, and investing in people. From combat zones to Ranger School, this episode unpacks what it really means to lead with purpose under pressure.

What makes a truly exceptional leader?

Is it position, authority, or something deeper? In this profound conversation with Joseph Polanin, retired Navy Captain and award-winning CEO, we uncover leadership wisdom forged through 30 years of leading elite teams in high-risk environments across more than 1,000 combat missions.

Joe reframes leadership in a way that will transform how you view your role: "Leadership is not a position, rank, or title. It's a process of learning, growing, and caring about other people." This powerful perspective has guided his journey from Naval Academy graduate to commanding EOD units worldwide, where the ethos of "quiet professionalism" – doing what's right regardless of who gets credit – became his north star.

What does it take to reach the absolute pinnacle of military leadership? Command Sergeant Major (Retired) John Wayne Troxell brings wisdom forged through 38 years of service and five combat deployments to this riveting conversation on transformational leadership.

As the former Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff—the highest position an enlisted service member can achieve—Troxell reveals his leadership framework built on the “three Ps”: presence, performance, and persistence. He explains why simply showing up isn’t enough. True leadership presence generates energy and inspiration. Performance means living out the standard, especially in adversity. Persistence is the grit to lead with both compassion and accountability.

From his humble beginnings to delivering a viral “surrender or die” message against ISIS, Troxell shares hard-earned lessons in resilience, authenticity, and leading under fire. Even under suspension, he stood firm in his convictions, later returning to his post with his values intact.

In this episode, you’ll hear how great leaders balance toughness with humanity, communicate the “why,” and evolve across increasing levels of responsibility. Now in civilian life, Troxell continues his mission through entrepreneurial leadership—proving service doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off.

If you’re ready to lead with greater purpose, this episode delivers battle-tested wisdom that applies across every leadership arena.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we welcome Morgan Sullivan, a man whose journey from the rigors of Army life to nurturing young athletes is nothing short of inspiring. With over 20 years of military service under his belt, Morgan shares his evolution from a commanding figure to a compassionate guide, offering a fresh take on leadership that prioritizes service and community impact.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to serve 17 years in the military, especially post-9/11? Join us as we sit down with Colin Boyle, an active duty infantry platoon sergeant, who opens up about his profound journey in the military.

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.

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.

Retired Lieutenant General L. Neil Thurgood is the special advisor to the UAH president for military affairs and technology.

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.

Episode 60 with SGM Lawrence Ogle

Episode 45 with Jeff Hubler

Episode 33 with Mark Gerecht

Episode 32 with Stuart Grazier

Episode 31 with Jerry St. Pierre