Welcome to Passing The Torch, a personal development podcast that’s about the journey, not just the destination. This show is a conversation with people who inspire me — thought leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, and others who are constantly evolving and learning about themselves. I’m not pretending to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes this podcast different. As I navigate my own personal growth and discover new tools, insights, and stories that are helping me, I’m brin ...
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Buildingothers Podcasts
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#110 - Katherine Torres-Pummill: Authentic Voices in Military Media and Approach to Storytelling
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44:33Send us a text Martin Foster hosts a candid conversation with Katherine Torres-Pummill, the dynamic General Manager of Recurrent’s Military Vertical. Katherine shares her journey from growing up in New York City as a first-generation American to leading some of the most influential military-focused media brands—including Task and Purpose, The War Z…
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#109 - Empowerment Through Kindness with Vanity Cross-Williams
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39:48Send us a text In this episode of Passing the Torch, Martin Foster interviews Vanity Cross-Williams, an active duty military member and development advisor for the United States Air Force. They discuss themes of kindness, leadership, personal growth, and the importance of community. Vanity shares her experiences from deployment, her journey in the …
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#108 - Yoga, Leadership, and Life’s Unexpected Turns with Veteran and Advocate Jennifer Ballou
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47:22Send us a text In this episode of Passing the Torch, host Martin Foster engages with Jennifer Ballou, an accomplished leader and yoga therapist, discussing her journey through life coaching, the importance of resilience, and her work with the Global War on Terrorism Memorial. They explore themes of personal growth, the significance of storytelling …
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#107 - Maurice P. Kerry on Invisible Impact, Fatherhood, Marines, Life, Survival, and Purpose
52:05
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52:05Send us a text In this episode of Passing the Torch, host Martin Foster engages in a heartfelt conversation with Maurice P. Kerry, a Marine Veteran and actor. They discuss Maurice's journey from military service to overcoming homelessness, the challenges of being a single father, and the importance of vulnerability and resilience. Maurice shares in…
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#106 - Robert Hamilton Owens - Built, Not Given: The Never-Quit Mindset of a 72-Year-Old Ironman
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55:48Send us a text In this episode, Martin Foster interviews Robert Hamilton Owens, a multifaceted individual known for his resilience and mental toughness. They discuss the importance of confidence, the impact of others on self-perception, and the significance of mindset in overcoming adversity. Robert shares personal stories of his journey, including…
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#105 - Vincent Mattox on Military Life, Influential Friendships, and the Power of Discipline
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37:38Send us a text Quick Episode Summary: Vincent Mattox shares leadership, gratitude, friendship, and military journey insights. - SEO Description: Passing The Torch podcast: Vincent Mattox shares inspiring lessons on leadership, growth, and his military journey. Real stories, motivation, and wisdom. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways: Roots & Family: Hear how Vince…
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#104 - Toni Lavery - Resilience, Service, and New Beginnings
1:08:46
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1:08:46Send us a text In this episode of Passing the Torch, host Martin Foster speaks with Toni Lavery, a veteran of the United States Army, about her transition to civilian life, the challenges she faced, and the importance of resilience and support networks. Toni shares her journey of self-discovery, health challenges, and her commitment to advocating f…
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#103 - How Asking Why Builds Stronger Teams: Matt Lucio
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25:20Send us a text Quick Episode Summary: Matt Lucio shares Air Force leadership lessons, motivation, and authenticity. - SEO Description: Air Force Noncommissioned officer (NCO) Matt Lucio shares leadership lessons, motivation, and career insights with host Martin Foster on Passing The Torch. Inspiring stories await! 🌟 Torch Takeaways: The Power of Pe…
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Send us a text Denny Giamazzo graduated from UMASS, Dartmouth with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government and served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard for seven years. He is also the founder and co-host of the Be The Standard podcast. By sharing his story, his mission is to enable others to set aside their self-imposed limita…
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#101 - Behind The Mic, Networking, Growth, and Embracing Authenticity - Martin Foster and Jason David
1:01:13
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1:01:13Send us a text Welcome to a landmark episode of Passing The Torch, where everything you thought you knew gets turned upside down! For our 101st episode, Jason David takes control, playfully hijacking hosting duties from the original creator, —Martin Foster—and dives deep into the story behind the podcast and the man himself. In this fun, insightful…
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#100 - Modeling the Rise, Not the Result: Growth and Community in Military Family Life with Lora Foster
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40:52Send us a text Welcome to a truly special 100th episode of Passing the Torch! Hosts Martin Foster and his wife Lora sit down for a heartfelt conversation about leadership, resilience, character development—and what it means to navigate life's biggest transitions together. After 23 years of military service and countless moves, Martin Foster is step…
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#99 - Storytelling for Impact with Bill Blankschaen
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44:05Send us a text Bill Blankschaen is a Multiple NYT/USA Today bestselling author & founder and Chief Story Architect of StoryBuilders, a creative team of story-tellers who share his passion for helping people live a story worth telling and serving them with excellence in genuine, high-trust relationships. In his new book, Your Story Advantage, with a…
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#98 - Joseph Rutakangwa- Never Stay Broke: Practical Steps to Financial Freedom
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40:47Send us a text In this conversation, Joseph Rutakangwa shares his journey from wealth to extreme poverty and back, emphasizing the importance of self-identity, fulfillment, and practical actions to regain control over one's life. He discusses his books, 'Never Stay Broke' and 'Negative to Zero', and how they reflect his experiences and insights on …
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#97 - Scott Stalker - Left of Leadership
1:38:47
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1:38:47Send us a text Welcome back to "Passing The Torch," where we dive deep into the stories behind remarkable leaders, their journeys, and the lessons they have to share. In this episode, host Martin Foster sits down with Scott Stalker—a man whose military career defies conventional expectations. Despite finishing last in his intelligence school traini…
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#96 - Resilience, Risk, and Making Movies: How Ryan Curtis Is Changing the Veteran Narrative
56:04
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56:04Send us a text Ryan, a Massachusetts native and oldest of seven, found escape in sports and filmmaking. He earned a basketball scholarship to Fitchburg State University, studying Broadcast Journalism and Theater. Shortly after joining the U.S. Army in 2001, 9/11 changed the world—and his path. Serving eight years with two deployments, Ryan credits …
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#95 - Angelina 'Strike' Stephens - Leading beyond comfort zones, purpose, and post-military transformation
45:24
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45:24Send us a text Callsign: Strike. Calling: Transformation. Angelina “Strike” Stephens has spent her life beyond the comfort zone on flightlines, in boardrooms, and in life’s most demanding moments. Forged in high-stakes leadership and proven in the moments that test character and conviction, she brings courage, candor, and clarity to every stage. Wi…
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#94 - Scott MacGregor - Everyday is a Special Occasion
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42:55Send us a text Scott MacGregor is the Publisher & Editor-In-Chief, Outlier Magazine, Founder, The Outlier Project, Founder & CEO, SomethingNew LLC, 4x Author of the “Standing O!” Series and Record 8x Winner of the American Business Award for Innovation. - Quick Episode Summary: In this episode, Scott MacGregor shares his journey as an entrepreneur …
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#93 - Kim "KC" Campbell - Fighter Pilot's Courage, Lessons, and Growth Stories
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43:59
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43:59Send us a text Kim “KC” Campbell is a retired Colonel who served in the Air Force for over 24 years as a fighter pilot and senior military leader. She has flown 1,800 hours in the A-10 Warthog, including more than 100 combat missions protecting troops on the ground in both Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2003, Kim was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cros…
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#92 - Ed Latimore - Tactical Habits of Pro Boxer and Best Selling Author
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58:15Send us a text Ed Latimore is a best-selling author, former professional heavyweight boxer, and competitive chess player. His writing focuses on self-improvement and a practical approach to stoic philosophy. - Quick Episode Summary: Ed Latimore discusses resilience, self-improvement, boxing, and overcoming adversity. - Key takeaways include: Resili…
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#91 - Curtez Riggs - Connecting Communities, Military Influence in Action, and Veteran Impact
57:23
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57:23Send us a text Curtez Riggs is a retired Military Veteran who spent twenty-one years within the ranks of the US Army. A native of Flint, Michigan, he is a serial entrepreneur, community builder, and advocate for the military community. Today, he uses entrepreneurship as a tool to create economic opportunities for marginalized communities and underr…
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#90 - Michelle 'MACE' Curran - How to Turn Fear into Fuel
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52:08Send us a text Meet Michelle "Mace" Curran, former Air Force Thunderbird pilot, keynote speaker, and author. The conversation kicks off with Michelle sharing her excitement about the upcoming release of her first nonfiction book, The Flip Side: How to Invert Your Perspective and Turn Fear into Your Superpower. She explains how the book, infused wit…
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#89 - Todd Simmons - Courageous Leadership & Authentic Living
1:12:49
1:12:49
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1:12:49Send us a text Todd Simmons is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Courageous Leadership Alliance. As a seasoned educator, executive coach, organizational culture influencer, international keynote speaker and business leader, Todd strives to build a coalition of change agents sharing a common aim for building a society of courageous leaders. To…
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#88 - Dr. Keith Castille - Veteran Leadership & Vulnerability
56:11
56:11
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56:11Send us a text In this conversation, Dr. Keith "KC" Castille and Martin Foster explore profound themes of life, loss, and leadership. They reflect on personal experiences that shape their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, the impact of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of workforce development. The discussion highlight…
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BONUS - Mary Polanco Interview from February 2023
26:19
26:19
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26:19Send us a text Mary Polanco shares insights on leadership, wellness, and purposeful living. === Time Codes: 00:00 Mary Polanco: Veteran & Mentor 03:43 Second Chance: Career Shift to Optometry 08:23 Neglecting Self for Others' Validation 12:22 Promote Fitness for Workplace Success 13:31 Grassroots Change Movement 19:07 "Follow Your Inner Voice" 20:0…
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#87 - Building Financial Resilience for Veterans - Erik Baskin
37:41
37:41
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37:41Send us a text The episode touches on the lack of personal finance education in schools, with Erik advocating for more practical courses to set young adults up for success. He also describes his approach to budgeting as a way to reduce mental stress and free up brain space for more important life decisions. Overall, this episode is packed with prac…
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#86 - Connecting Rural Veterans to Resources and Support - Michelle Lang
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34:30Send us a text In this impactful episode of Passing The Torch, host Martin Foster sits down with Michelle Lang, founder of Operation Honor Rural Salute (OHRS), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting rural and small-town veterans and their families. Michelle shares her personal journey, including her husband’s challenging transition out of the military…
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#85 - Blake Stilwell - Humor and Humanity
1:04:53
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1:04:53Send us a text In this episode of “Passing The Torch,” host Martin Foster sits down with Blake Stilwell—an accomplished writer, editor, and combat photographer who was recently named editor in chief at We Are the Mighty. The conversation dives deep into Blake’s unconventional and winding journey through multiple careers, his time in the military, a…
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#84 - Josh White - From Service to Self-Discovery
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58:45Send us a text In this heartfelt and insightful episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster sits down with Josh White, host of the Herofront podcast, core member of Team Departing Sin, and a recent military retiree. The conversation takes listeners through Josh's transition from military life to civilian life, the emotional rollercoaster tie…
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Send us a text Meet Cody Keenan—best known as President Barack Obama’s longtime speechwriter and author of the bestseller "Grace." The conversation covers Cody’s career journey, from his early days working for Senator Ted Kennedy, to his rise as White House Chief Speechwriter, and beyond. Martin opens with humor and heartfelt admiration for Cody’s …
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#82 - Shaun Murphy - Music as a Medium for Motivation
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47:03Send us a text Shaun Murphy, known as Mr. Motivation, shares his journey of resilience, fatherhood, and the fusion of music and motivational speaking. He emphasizes the importance of living in the moment, embracing failure, and surrounding oneself with a supportive community. Through personal anecdotes and insights from his book 'Unbreakable Valor'…
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#81 - Kurt Warner’s Playbook - Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way for Others
1:16:52
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1:16:52Send us a text Passing The Torch – "Kurt Warner" Podcast Summary In this inspiring episode of Passing The Torch, host Martin Foster sits down with NFL Hall of Famer Kurt Warner to explore the remarkable journey that took him from stocking grocery store shelves to hoisting the Lombardi Trophy as a Super Bowl-winning quarterback. The conversation div…
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#80 - Shadows and Spotlights - Tripp Bodenheimer
1:23:54
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1:23:54Send us a text Tripp Bodenheimer is the host of The Shadows Podcast. An enlightening show that uncovers stories of triumph, showcasing inspiring tales of resilience, courage, and hope. Through powerful narratives, it illuminates the indomitable human spirit. Delving into mental, social, physical, and emotional strength, the podcast offers a beacon …
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#79 - Nate Boyer - Community, Identity, and Healing Through Storytelling
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40:44Send us a text Nate Boyer—former Green Beret, NFL long snapper, philanthropist, and public speaker. Nate’s journey is anything but ordinary, spanning military service in Iraq and Afghanistan, walking on to the University of Texas football team, and even suiting up briefly with the Seattle Seahawks. He’s also made a difference across the globe, from…
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#78 - Vincent 'Rocco' Vargas - Healing Through Hitting
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57:29Send us a text Vincent “Rocco” Vargas, a former decorated Army Ranger who also conducted Spec Ops at the border (and continues to serve as a Sergeant First Class Reserve Officer today). In addition, Rocco Vargas is a veteran of three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan with the 75th Ranger Regiment’s 2nd Battalion based at Joint Base Lewis-M…
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Ep. 77: Every Sunset Eventually Leads to Sunrise with Rachel Oswalt
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47:46Send us a text Rachel Oswalt is a US Navy veteran who served 6.5 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician. In her time served she not only experienced her own challenges within the military mental health system, but also witnessed countless shipmates who dealt with similar struggles. After losing 3 shipmates to suicide in a short span of time sh…
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Ep. 76: Michael 'Rod' Rodriguez: Healing Through Action
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1:05:39Send us a text Background: Michael “Rod” Rodríguez joined the U.S. Army in 1992, becoming a Green Beret in 1997 and serving as a Sniper Instructor at Fort Bragg until his medical retirement in 2013 due to combat injuries. With ten deployments, Rod’s military career was marked by significant contributions. He joined the GWOT Memorial Foundation in 2…
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Ep. 75: Marcus 'Buff' Bagwell: The 11 Hardest Steps In My Life
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50:09Send us a text Buff Bagwell Discusses Sobriety, Wrestling Career, and Personal Growth. In this captivating episode of Passing The Torch, host Martin sits down with professional wrestling legend Marcus Buff Bagwell for an in-depth conversation about his life, career, and ongoing journey of redemption. With candid honesty, Buff shares personal storie…
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Ep. 74: Deonna Purrazzo - The First Lady of Stratus
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55:38Send us a text In this episode of "Passing the Torch," the host interviews Deonna Purrazzo, a professional wrestler currently signed with All Elite Wrestling. The conversation explores how Purrazzo's experiences of being told "no" have fueled her resilience and determination to prove herself. They discuss her inspirations and the three historical w…
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Ep. 73: The Art of Bearing: Joshua Alvord's Journey in Military Service and Fitness
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48:26Send us a text In this episode of "Passing the Torch," Martin Foster interviews Staff Sergeant Joshua Alvord, a member of the United States Air Force Honor Guard, who serves as a body bearer. Alvord shares his journey in the Air Force, influenced by his family's military background and his personal passion for fitness. He highlights his roles in pr…
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Ep. 72: JoAnne Bass - Leadership in Uniform and Beyond
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46:26Send us a text In the latest episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster interviews JoAnne Bass, the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force and the first female to hold the highest senior enlisted rank in any United States military branch. The episode provides insights into Bass's impressive career, her reflections on leadership, and he…
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Ep. 71: Rebecca Rouse - Momentum in Life and Fitness
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44:19Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Rebecca Rouse discusses the significance of routine and structure in maintaining mental and physical health. She shares insights into her upcoming projects, including her work with the Semper Stronger Foundation, which supports veterans. The discussion also addresses common misconceptions about women in…
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Ep. 70: Steve Maclin - Military Influence on Pro Wrestling
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55:05Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Steve Maclin shares insights from his journey as a Marine Corps veteran turned professional wrestler. He discusses the influence of his military background on his wrestling persona, the evolution of TNA wrestling, and the importance of character development in the industry. Maclin reflects on memorable …
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Ep. 69: Tiffany Zaloudek - Passion, Perseverance, and SERE Training
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54:26Send us a text Roughly 1.25% of the Air Force hold the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. It’s already a tough milestone to achieve. Tiffany Zaloudek is someone who did just that and made even more history recently by becoming the first female survival, evasion, resistance, escape (SERE) specialist to earn the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest…
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Ep. 68: Jennifer Marshall - Paranormal, Acting, Cancer, Uganda, Military, and Motherhood
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52:23Send us a text Jennifer Marshall is a proud Navy veteran, EMT, Cancer Survivor and vocal advocate for the military veteran community. You may know her as the host of Mysteries Decoded on the CW (yes, she really is a licensed Private Investigator), or as Max's mom on Netflix's hit, Stranger Things. Other shows she's appeared on include NCIS, Hawaii …
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Ep. 67: The Bird Clock and Millennial Veterans with Jenna Carlton
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41:29Send us a text Jenna Carlton is the founder of The Millennial Veteran and the podcast Vet Chats. She utilizes her voice and platforms to engage in conversations with other veterans, focusing on their experiences and perspectives. Her Instagram page reaches millions of veterans per month and provides a space to openly discuss the emotional side of t…
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Ep. 66: James Brackin IV - The Audacity to Ask
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47:40Send us a text James Brackin IV, the host of the "You Can Too" podcast, joins Passing The Torch to discuss the concept of "invisible progress," the importance of persistence, and reframing rejection. James shares his journey in podcasting, past personal losses, and the value of resilience. They also discuss leveraging networks, setting dream guest …
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Ep. 65: Travis Wilson - Four Corners of an Envelope
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45:30Send us a text Travis Wilson is a 21-year military veteran who spent 13 years as a U.S. Army Green Beret. Travis entered the Army in 1995 as an Airborne Medic with the goal of one day becoming an 18D Green Beret Medic. After 6 years in the service, Travis left the Army to attend Boise State University, where he studied Exercise Science and played h…
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Ep. 64: Jessica Meuse - Songbird Rising, Unplugged, and Unfiltered
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41:00Send us a text Background: The incredibly talented singer-songwriter Jessica Meuse. Hailing from Slapout, Alabama, Jessica's path to stardom hasn't been straightforward. She opens up about her struggles with bullying, her early start in music, and the riveting moment her career took a pivotal turn during a nerve-wracking talent show at just 10 year…
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Ep. 63: Challenge The Limits of Goliath - David Brown
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49:54Send us a text Former U.S. Navy SEAL and author of And Goliath: The Littlest SEAL's Inspirational Story About Living Your Biggest Life, David Brown, who was the unlikeliest of candidates for the world's most grueling military selection process. Standing just 5' 3" and weighing 110 pounds, he was unlike any of the others around him who aspired to be…
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Ep. 62: Cultivating Confidence - Zac Pitts on Facing Anxiety and Embracing Imperfections
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41:54Send us a text Zac Pitts is a news personality and owner of ZP Media and Consulting. In this episode he shares his remarkable journey from setbacks to success and the invaluable lessons he learned along the way. In you this episode you will learn the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, how setbacks can act as springboards, and why embracing…
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