21-year-old Tap was one vote away from being kicked out of the U.S. Air Force for a litany of violations, a long record of bad behavior, and even an apprehension—when one leader spontaneously put his own reputation on the line to give this “bad Airman” yet another chance to prove his worth. That leader’s risky act of faith transformed Tap’s life of delinquency into a decorated 31-year career of military service, culminating in his promotion to Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force. In this episode of “Building Better Leaders,” retired Chief Master Sergeant Gerardo Tapia shares intensely personal stories of leadership throughout his life, which should inspire everyone to lead with newfound compassion, mentorship, and faith in those who need a second chance.

The Doolittle Leadership Center's podcast, Building Better Leaders, features candid conversations with a wide range of influential leaders about their stories— and how they have learned to lead. Dr. Patrick Donley, Director of the DLC, hosts episodes at a variety of exciting locations across the globe as he tours with the DLC's on-location leader development workshops.