Passing The Torch

Ever found yourself captivated by the high-stakes worlds of the military and fitness? Brace yourself, as we bring you a fascinating conversation with Kurtis Stadsvold, an active duty military individual who wears the dual hats of an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) expert and a fitness enthusiast. Prepare to traverse a meticulously woven narrative that delves into the captivating realm of military life, the hurdles of work-life balance, and the raw power of resilience.

Dive headfirst into the deep end of Kurtis's life, as we shed light on the importance of stress outlets in challenging professions like EOD, and how fitness can act as an effective and rewarding channel. Kurtis uncovers the transformative impact of strength training and how it can shatter the cycle of victimhood, instigating a potent surge of personal growth. He even paints a vivid picture of his personal battles with med boards and how strength training has played a pivotal role in his journey.

But the thrill doesn't stop there! Join us as Kurtis provides an exclusive peek into the delicate dance between military and civilian life, highlighting the benefits of cultivating relationships outside the military sphere and creating a harmonious balance between work and personal life. He passionately advocates the power of mentorship and the potential of garage gym communities in influencing veterans' lives post-military. So, get ready to immerse yourself in an enriching episode that seamlessly blends the worlds of military and fitness, peppered with Kurtis's unique anecdotes, insights, and a good deal of inspiration!

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

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Have you ever pondered the profound impact of relationships, networking, and mentorship in shaping your professional journey? We invite you to share a thought-provoking conversation with our guest, Ian Eishen, a seasoned Air Force veteran, who taps into his rich experiences of over two decades in service to illuminate these facets. This episode promises to offer more than just insights - it's a stirring exploration of the power of motivation, the nuances of identity, and the significance of authenticity in effective leadership.

We journey alongside Ian as he navigates through his military life, emphasizing the importance of identity and how it can be harnessed to uplift others. His late decision to join the Air Force truly underscores how open doors of opportunities can be found in the most unexpected places. We delve into the art of creating lasting impressions, emphasizing authenticity as the backbone of leadership. The discussion then takes a fascinating turn towards the role of AI and communication in leadership education, shedding light on how storytelling and the choice of font can make a difference in digital communication.

We round off this enlightening conversation by addressing the necessity of comprehending complex subjects and simplifying them for others. Drawing from Ian's wisdom, we emphasize the importance of documenting and sharing knowledge, as well as the value of generosity beyond personal gains. A powerful blend of military experiences, leadership lessons, technology insights, and communication strategies, this episode promises a riveting experience. So, get ready to change the way you perceive mentorship, leadership, and networking with Ian Eishen.

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out episodes

Purple Heart Recipient

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher

Ever wonder how you can truly seize the day and maximize each moment in your life?

Sydney Sullivan, the motivational host of the Maximize the Moment Podcast, joins us for an exhilarating discussion about his philosophy of life. He shares his personal journey, the importance of building partnerships, and his passion for personal growth. Sydney's unique perspective on generational wealth, not just in terms of finance but also personal development, will make you rethink your own strategies towards growth.

The conversation with Sydney doesn't stop there. We delve deeper into the concept of personal improvement, discussing the significance of learning from others, ruthlessly prioritizing and maintaining a work-life balance. Sydney shares an interesting approach to finding out life's real values and a secret to starting the day before it begins. As we wrap up the episode, we explore the impact of small decisions on our lives, supported by a captivating analogy of dominoes and a heartening story about a man saving starfish. Prepare to be inspired and motivated to make the most of each moment in your life.

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out episodes

Purple Heart Recipient

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher

Ever wondered what it took to emerge from the crucible of war a stronger leader? Join me as I am privileged to spend time with retired United States Air Force Colonel Lee Ellis, author of the award-winning book, Leading with Honor. Our conversation weaves through his inspiring journey from being a prisoner of war in Vietnam to the birth of his mission - developing leaders of character, courage, and commitment. Six years on, the impact of his book on my own leadership journey remains profound.

As you listen, prepare to gain insightful lessons on the importance of relationships in leadership, drawn from Lee's experiences in the Vietnam War. Discover how character, mission, and people are the cornerstones of effective leadership. Lee shares wisdom on self-management for leaders and the need to reflect on the psychological effects of war. Stay tuned for an honest discussion on his POW experience in Vietnam, where he and his fellow soldiers confronted bitterness to walk out as free men.

In our final chat, Lee delves into societal perceptions of Vietnam veterans upon their return. We throw light on his book, Leading with Honor, and the relevance of good role models, love in leadership, and the Honor Code. This episode is more than a conversation; it's an inspiring journey through an American hero's life, revealing invaluable lessons for the leaders of tomorrow. Don't miss it!

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out episodes

Purple Heart Recipient

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher

Ever imagined how it feels to be in the shoes of a Development Advisor Special Duty Manager at the Headquarters Air Force Pentagon? Join us as we navigate the riveting journey of Senior Master Sergeant Stephanie Zengerle. From her humble beginnings in Pueblo, Colorado, to challenging deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kenya, and ultimately her influential role at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Stephanie shares her profound experiences. Overcoming her inherent shyness and fear of public speaking, Stephanie lets us in on how she's broken the barriers of her comfort zone.

Stephanie goes onto narrate how she transformed her life's setbacks into stepping stones. She boldly shares her encounter with DUI and the pivotal role that mental health resources played in her life. Drawing inspiration from her late grandfather’s motivating words, she highlights the significance of resilience in life. She candidly discusses the transformative power of learning from her own mistakes, demonstrating how they've shaped her into the leader she is today.

This episode also taps into the exhilarating aspects of shaping policies that have a direct impact on enlisted development. Stephanie discusses her evolving methods over the years and how they've helped her juggle her varied roles. Also, she talks about the importance of positive self-talk and self-reflection, and how they've helped her effect change in her organization. As we wrap up, we engage in a fun discussion revolving around a game of Clue and her dream dinner party. This episode takes you through an inspiring journey of personal growth and resilience and gives you a glimpse into the exciting world of the Air Force. Get ready for an hour full of insights and anecdotes that are sure to leave you inspired.

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill

What happens when your passion for authentic and respectful conversations sparks a podcast that becomes a mentorship platform on demand? Just ask Pete and Jessica from the Unpopular Celebrities podcast. This dynamic duo has spent the last three years cultivating a platform that values authenticity, accountability, and the power of meaningful interactions. Balancing the dynamics of a five-member podcast isn't always easy, but the lessons learned and bonds formed make it all worth it.

Have you ever wondered about the people behind the voices of your favorite podcast? Beyond the mic, Pete and Jessica share their journey, the challenges, and the rewarding relationships they have forged with guests such as Chief Rogers, Airman Hill, April Buford, Andy Gilbert and Todd Simmons. Through podcasting, they've connected with a diverse range of perspectives and experiences that enrich their own understanding of the world. Join us as we pull back the curtain for a behind-the-scenes look at the Unpopular Celebrities podcast and the remarkable individuals who make it all possible.

Show Notes

• Intro
• Story behind Unpopular Celebrities
• Reflecting back since the podcast inception, a specific moment that shines
• New friendship from past 2-3 years that has developed into a lifetime bond
• GIANT BILLBOARD Message for the world to see
• Where to find Unpopular Celebrities

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill

Meet Shane Pilgrim, a veteran who transformed his military experience into a successful civilian life. This episode sees us journeying through Shane's transition, unveiling the nuggets of wisdom he gathered throughout his career, and uncovering how he became a board of advisors member with Nextop Veterans. An advocate of challenging assumptions and embracing autonomy, Shane discloses the role of innovation in staying ahead across any industry.

Shane's insights don't stop at transition; he further explores the realm of business and networking success. He emphasizes the power of understanding your heart's true desires and the influential principle of networking. Our conversation then shifts to leadership and personal style, discussing unique styles, patience, a growth mindset, and the awe-inspiring works of leaders like Admiral McRaven.

In the final stride of our conversation, we reflect on the poignant concept of self-investment, the risks, rewards, and the potential outcomes it yields – be it a boat business or CrossFit. We redefine wealth and success, challenging the conventional definitions and proposing that true richness lies in the freedom to do what one desires. We wrap up this enriching discussion by sharing stories and experiences that have shaped us, emphasizing the power of storytelling. Prepare to get enlightened in this journey of exploration and wisdom with Shane Pilgrim.

Show Notes:

• Story behind his Alexander Hamilton socks
• Challenge most service members have with thinking differently and their first year after exiting the military
• Looking back on one skill he overlooked in the military, but now realizes the value
• How a failure, or an apparent failure, set Shane up for future success
• If you are not networking, you are not working
• 2-3 books Shane recommends about networking and transitioning he recommends. Also, same advice for podcasts, articles, and YouTube videos
• Admiral McRaven
• Keys to establishing a unique style without getting pigeonholed
• Best or most worthwhile self-investments he made in the past six years
• Bad advice he hears often regarding people transitioning out of the military
• If movie were made about his life, who would play him and what would the name of the movie be and SHOUT OUTS
• GIANT BILLBOARD that he could place anywhere in the world with his message on it for the world to see

Connect with Passing The Torch:
Social Media Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor Andrew Bustamante: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher Jon Macaskill: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill

Have you ever wondered how one finds strength in vulnerability? Join us for a profound conversation with our special guest, the resilient Chad VanCleave-Goff of the United States Air Force. Chad candidly shares his personal journey, a testament to the power of authenticity in leadership, and the beautiful balance of military stripes with his true self. His story, filled with personal growth and the tragic loss of his father, is sure to inspire you.

As we explore Chad's captivating journey, we also delve into the significance of self-care and genuine connections in enhancing life's quality. Drawing from Chad's experience of supporting his unit during the early days of the pandemic, we illuminate how small acts of kindness hold the power to cause a significant impact. His narrative of running towards a positive mindset while leaving behind negativity is a potent message on mental and emotional resilience.

In the closing chapters of our conversation, Chad pays tribute to the influential figures in his life. He speaks of his mother who has shaped his leadership style and helped him remain true to his roots. This episode is an in-depth exploration of leadership, authenticity, and personal growth, presenting a unique perspective on how adversity can fuel resilience and transformation. This heartfelt, inspiring episode is one of a kind - you won't want to miss it.

Connect with Passing The Torch:
Social Media Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor Andrew Bustamante: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher Jon Macaskill: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill

Imagine kick-starting your day with a purposeful routine- one that enhances focus and intentionality and paves the way for a lasting legacy. That's precisely what Centerville High School Basketball Coach Brook Cupps shares in this enlightening episode, dwelling on morning rituals of meditating, journaling, and reciting a mantra. We also delve into the transformative impact of meditation and how he guides students in finding their unique purpose in life while ensuring they realize the best version of themselves.

Show Notes:

• Intro
• Story behind the movie Patch Adams
• Values along with the meanings of Foxhole and the phrase Chop Chop
• Importance of body language and non-verbal leadership skills
• Creating space to think strategically
• How the practice of mindfulness and strategic thinking has directly impacted his success on the court
• In the past five years, a new belief or behavior that has more improved his life
• Tips for setting into motion courses of action that allow people to unleash their best and most valuable performance while they have the opportunity
• Advice for anyone in a leadership position or a coach on how to make young people feel significant in the moment
• Purchase of a $100 or less that has impacted his life the most
• Which past basketball player Brook Cupps most identifies with
• Building a starting five that consisted of friends (with Stephen Curry as sixth man)
• If he could place a billboard anywhere in the world with his message on it for the world to see and read, where would it be and what would the message say
• What the hero of his story wants

Connect with Passing The Torch:
Social Media Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor Andrew Bustamante: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher Jon Macaskill: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill

What would you do if you were thrown into the throes of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, all while pursuing a demanding career in the medical field? Our guest Rylee, a military medic and social media influencer, asked herself this very question. Her answer? Face the battles head-on, amplify emotional intelligence, and harness the power of a growth mindset. Rylee's journey, though marked with challenges, is nothing short of inspiring.

Rylee's candid conversation about her invisible wounds of PTSD, born out of an abusive relationship, resonates with many. Her love language of gift-giving and a conscious effort to make others feel significant, are her ways to make this world less lonely. Her childhood coping mechanism of running – both away from difficulties and towards personal development, make for an intriguing listen.

As we walk with Rylee towards her passion for women's health, we learn what made her so committed to the cause. She offers a heartfelt story about the moment she learned the skill of detachment and how she uses her platform to reach out to others. Despite past hardships, Rylee maintains an uplifting positivity, finding solace in an unusual habit, and paying forward the knowledge she has gained. Her story is not just about surviving; it's about thriving and passing the torch of resilience to others.

Show Notes:
On paying out of pocket to attend a Professional Development Conference
Where Rylee’s growth mindset stems
Personal story about Dad
As a daughter of a single dad, how that shaped who she is today
Emotional Intelligence and ability to TRUST
Where PTSD stems from and healing Invisible wounds
Making people feel significant
Childhood coping method
What Rylee is running from and towards
Describing FUTURE SELF
ONE STORY THAT MAKES HER CRY
Learning the skill of detachment
UNUSUAL HABIT and ABSURD thing ryeroast loves
BILLBOARD Message

Connect with Passing The Torch:
Social Media Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

If you enjoyed this podcast, check these out

Purple Heart Recipient: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/12511782-ep-28-your-capacity-is-limitless-with-ben-seekell

Helping People Take Control of their lives & Hack Success with CIA Intelligence Officer, Decorated Military Combat Veteran and Fortune 10 Corporate Advisor Andrew Bustamante: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10533881-ep-24-top-secret-helping-people-take-control-of-their-lives-hack-success-like-a-former-cia-super-spy-with-andrew-bustamante

Navy Seal Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher Jon Macaskill: https://passingthetorch.buzzsprout.com/1946508/10142693-ep-18-slow-down-and-take-a-breath-with-the-mindful-frogman-jon-macaskill