Passing The Torch with Martin Foster

Send 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 and the founder of the Outlier Project, a community dedicated to making a positive impact. He discusses the importance of recognizing opportunities, building meaningful connections, and embracing the duality of life. Scott emphasizes that every day is a special occasion and encourages listeners to show up differently to achieve success. He also shares insights on how to navigate life's challenges and the significance of living authentically. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways: - Chapters: 00:00 Encounter with Barry Manilow 05:37 "Impact Over Accolades" 08:47 "Success: Choice Over Talent" 10:37 Embrace Creative Freedom 13:40 Launching Successful Magazine Instinctively 18:53 "Building Genuine Relationships" 23:12 Personalized Welcome Surprise 25:53 Eclectic Community of Outliers 28:36 "Podcast: Sharing Diverse Stories" 31:04 Curiosity About Life Choices 33:50 "Choosing New Paths After Retirement" 37:39 Building Connections Beyond Interviews 41:41 "Building Genuine Relationships" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 Cross for Heroism after successfully recovering her battle-damaged airplane after an intense close air support mission. As a senior military leader, Kim has led hundreds of Airmen both at home and abroad in deployed locations and enabled them to succeed in their missions. She has experience leading complex organizations and driving cultural change. Kim knows what it takes to be a successful leader, to inspire and empower high performance teams to achieve success. Kim is passionate about leadership and feels strongly that leaders earn trust by leading with courage and connecting with their team. - Quick Episode Summary: Kim "KC" Campbell shares lessons on courage, mistakes, leadership, and resilience. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways: - Chapters: 00:00 Podcast Guest Pursuit Journey 04:15 Pilot's Challenges and Lessons 09:03 Reflecting on the Challenger Experience 10:51 Enjoy the Journey 12:50 Chief Robinson's Inspiring Leadership Mentorship 16:59 Airplane Incident and Aftermath 20:38 Courage in Fearful Moments 24:01 Redefining Leadership Expectations 28:46 "Write Your Own Success Story" 32:30 "Flying with Reassuring Leader Spanky" 33:01 Gas Mask Drill Recollection 39:27 "Book's Message" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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: Resilience is built by confronting hardship, not avoiding it.Respect trumps being liked.Mastering the basics and building structure beats chasing instant gratification.- Time Codes: 00:00 Content Fatherhood Reflections 04:53 "Experience and Freedom in Fighting" 07:24 "Gratitude for Acknowledgment in 'Atomic Habits'" 12:50 Exercise: Powerful Antidepressant 14:15 Writing a Book: Challenges and Control 17:02 Chasing Approval vs. Earning Respect 22:11 Embracing Detachment: Comedy Over Tragedy 24:10 "Change Environment, Break the Cycle" 27:20 Childhood Struggles: Psychological and Physical 32:58 "Patience with Rescue Animals" 34:19 Mastering Basics Amidst Distractions 37:27 "Why I Prefer Physical Books" 42:37 Writing for Growth and Feedback 44:02 Grit: Persistence and Improvement 49:19 Thanking Myself: A Personal Reflection 53:20 Recording Audiobook Challenges 56:24 "Passing the Torch: Self-Acceptance" 57:18 Promote Podcast Engagement Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 underrepresented voices. - Quick Episode Summary: Curtez Riggs on building community, military transition, and authentic connections. - Here are 3 key takeaways that really stood out: 🔗 Servant Leadership in Action: Curtez intentionally stays “on the floor,” listening and connecting at the Military Influencer Conference (MIC). He focuses on learning others’ needs and bridging connections, emphasizing, “I want to be on the ground, I want to be connected, I want to solve problems and I want to make matches.” 🚀 Success through Nontraditional Paths: His journey from hustling in Flint, collecting bottles for cash, to launching impactful ventures proves success isn’t always linear. “You can constantly reinvent yourself,” he says—encouraging us to trust our skills, embrace the hustle, and forge our own way. 🤝 The Power of Authentic Community: Whether it’s the welcoming culture at MIC or his personal mentorship approach, Curtez shows that the real impact comes from creating access and breaking down barriers. “We like to be around heart-minded individuals… we have the heart to serve one another.” - Time Codes: 00:00 Impact & Innovation 03:49 Military Influencer Conference: Connecting Hearts 08:12 Networking Strategy at MIC 12:25 Empowering Transitions Through MIC 16:03 Recurrent Military: Media for Service Members 19:07 Flint Lessons and Military Bonds 22:50 Mentoring Through Impactful Dialogue 25:57 Entrepreneurial Beginnings and Ventures 26:35 "Embracing Affiliate Marketing" 29:43 "Former Crypto Enthusiast's Tale" 33:26 "Seeking Role Models on TV" 36:10 Nostalgic 90s Reflection 39:23 Late Mentor's Impact on Perseverance 43:53 Continuous Self-Reinvention Mindset 47:20 From Divorce to Credit Repair 52:39 "Returning Home to Innovate Service" 53:42 Seeking Growth Through Storytelling 57:06 "Podcast Reflection Request" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 with lessons and stories from her 13 years flying fighter jets, aims to help readers transform fear into a tool for growth and resilience. - Key takeaways include: Flip Your Fear: Michelle’s new book, The Flip Side, is rooted in the idea of reframing fear. Instead of trying to “turn off” fear, she encourages leaning into it—because growth often happens at the edges of our comfort zones. Small, bold choices add up over time! Normalize Doubt: Even at the top, imposter syndrome is real. Michelle emphasizes separating our inner critic from our true abilities, reframing negative self-talk, and recognizing that even the highest performers have doubts—they just don’t let it keep them from showing up. Relatability Drives Impact: Whether inspiring kids through her children’s books or adults with leadership lessons, Michelle’s authenticity and willingness to share both the triumphs and the fears makes her story relatable—and that’s where true impact lies. - Time Codes: 00:00 "Fighter Pilot's Fear Flipping Lessons" 04:20 Inspiring Young Aviators: A Journey 08:21 Female Mentorship in Military Aviation 12:36 Silencing the Inner Critic 16:02 Pilot Stress and Arousal Levels 19:43 Nostalgia Amid Digital Overload 21:39 Weekly Debrief for Improvement 26:26 First Flight Experience 28:08 "Daytona Beach Flyover Query" 31:54 F16 Training Anticipation 33:48 From Intimidation to Friendship 39:48 "Editing a Manuscript Journey" 42:04 Humbling Moments Amid Accomplishments 45:06 "Start Before You're Ready" 50:08 "Persistence Pays: Bold Follow-Up" 51:00 "Appreciation and Recording End" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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. Todd has worked with global institutions and businesses such as NASA, U.S Air Force, U.S Space Force, Professional Golf Association (PGA), Amazon, and many others. - Quick Summary: Todd Simmons on fear, leadership, intentional living, and building authentic relationships. - Key takeaways include: The essential nature of intentional living and consistency, especially for leaders. Building relationships and networks not for transactional gain, but for genuine connection. How early experiences shape adult fears, motivations, and growth. The importance of energy management over just time management. Advice for high achievers on maintaining personal peace while pursuing big goals. The value of knowing your unique strengths and bringing them to everything you do. Being open to change, stepping outside comfort zones in ways that fit your personality. Living with gratitude and urgency by recognizing life’s brevity and unpredictability. - Time Codes: 00:00 Intro 05:06 Fear's Impact and Personal Growth 12:12 Proving Yourself Through Persistence 16:00 "Reflections on Lifelong Learning" 23:07 "Prioritize Life Over Busywork" 27:00 Early Loss Inspiring Retirement Decisions 36:10 Embracing Introverted Work-Life Balance 38:04 Always Here to Respond 45:02 "Appreciating Longform Podcasting" 49:23 Discovering Daily Super Strengths 57:36 "Investing $1M on one person in 2026 01:03:36 "Climb Ladders to Self-Discovery" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 highlights the significance of embracing life after loss, celebrating achievements, and the role of AI in education. Ultimately, they underscore the necessity of being open about struggles and the power of connection in leadership. - Time Codes: 04:13 "Seeking Meaningful Leadership" 08:35 Inspired by Leadership and Vision 10:43 "Integrating AI in Workforce Education" 13:25 Adaptive Business Learning Solutions 16:55 Leadership Through Empathetic Listening 20:07 "Happiness Behind the Scenes" 23:05 Turning Point: Life to God 26:57 "Embracing Curiosity and Safety" 31:41 "Shifting Perspective on Work Choices" 34:52 "Inspiring Journeys at the Academy" 38:45 "Unexpected Acts of Kindness" 39:30 "Misunderstood Generosity" 43:59 "Underdogs Triumph Against Odds" 47:41 "Believe and Lift Others Up" 51:12 Gratitude for Podcast Opportunity 53:58 Guest Excitement on Show Invitation 55:54 "Podcasting: My Source of Strength" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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" 20:04 "Peaked in High School" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 practical finance advice, life lessons from the military, and personal anecdotes on happiness, resilience, and purpose. It’s a great listen for anyone looking to better align their finances with their values and build a foundation for long-term freedom. === Time Codes: 00:00 Building a Guest Wish List 04:31 Passion for Finance and Investing 07:06 Enhancing Financial Resilience 13:18 "Early Financial Literacy's Impact" 15:00 Intentional Living: Values-Driven Decisions 18:22 Pre-Kids Trip to Australia 22:05 Family Time as Life's North Star 25:17 Financial Stress and Life Impact 27:28 Book Recommendations for Financial Resilience 31:50 "Retirement Plans and Lost Time" 36:13 Amazon Wish List Spending 37:57 Managing Inbound Requests 41:56 "Happier Future in Colorado" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send us a text In this impactful episode of Passing The Torch, host Martin Foster sits down with Michelle Lang, co-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 and the difficulties they faced finding support in rural Pennsylvania. This experience, combined with helping their Vietnam veteran neighbor avoid homelessness, catalyzed Michelle’s commitment to closing the resource gap for rural veterans. Key Themes: This episode shines a light on an often-overlooked population and underscores the power of community-driven change and empathetic leadership. === Time Codes: 00:00 Mark Harper's Inspiring Program Introduction 04:34 Barriers to Rural Relocation 06:30 Struggles with Mental Health & Service 10:54 VA Assistance Event Success 13:30 Veteran Culture Across Generations 17:22 Funding Needed for Rural Veterans Initiative 22:03 Homeless Veterans on Base 24:41 "Overcoming Mental Barriers in Leadership" 28:29 "Dream Billboard Message" 32:59 Podcast Guest Introduction 33:57 Understanding Rural Veterans' Experiences Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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, and how he nearly “accidentally” became a full-time writer. Key Themes: Overall, this episode is a blend of wisdom, humor, and real-world advice, offering listeners inspiration to carve their own path and “carry the torch” forward, wherever their journey may lead. === Time Codes: 00:00 Parents Unaware of My Work 08:59 Bridging Military-Civilian Cultural Gap 14:49 Advice for Veterans Entering Workforce 17:47 "Production Team's Grueling Schedule" 22:58 Boring Job Experience in D.C. 28:34 Simplifying Complexity Through Experience 33:07 Evaluating Veteran Education Programs 38:18 Enthusiastic Narrative Techniques 45:27 "Unrecognized Hero: George Henry Thomas" 49:42 "Everyman Leads After President's Stroke" 53:10 Reenlistment Dilemma: Missed College Deadline 01:02:21 "Live Your Own Life" 01:03:24 Embrace Accidental Success Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 tied to retirement, and the search for purpose beyond the uniform. === Time Codes: 00:00 "Genuine Encounter Resonates Deeply" 03:49 Smooth Retirement Transition 06:30 "Visualize Your Retirement Timeline" 11:14 "Anonymous in Honor Guard" 14:33 Embracing a New Identity 17:16 "Transactional Relationships' Disillusionment" 20:19 "Cherishing Overlooked Everyday Moments" 24:13 Fear of Not Progressing 26:09 Midlife Pressure and Family Impact 29:33 Retirement Motivated by Life Reflection 32:37 "Discovering New Self-Purpose" 38:14 Self-Reflection and Storytelling 40:49 Avoiding Relationships in Military 43:21 Meeting Jesus Triggers Apocalypse 47:10 "Purpose is Everything" 49:34 Podcast Recognition and Chief's Story 55:26 "Two Paths, Same Outcome" 56:54 Prioritize Life Over Career Rank Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

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 work, setting a warm, conversational tone. Additionally, the episode touches on the creative process behind presidential speechwriting: the intense collaboration, the immense pressure, and the quest for authenticity in political messaging. Cody reflects on some of the standout speeches he’s helped create, like the Selma anniversary address, and discusses the value of hope, optimism, and candor when writing for the public. He also gives practical advice to aspiring speechwriters, stressing the importance of clear, conversational language and the dangers of becoming too lofty or detached from everyday people. Personal reflections, pop culture references, and “nerd outs” about superheroes give the episode an accessible, engaging feel. Throughout, Cody and Martin discuss the importance of public service, the shifting nature of media and public discourse, and the power of storytelling to forge a common, uplifting narrative. They close with mutual appreciation and Cody’s advice to the next generation: be less cynical, invest in hope, and don’t be afraid to fail if you’re striving to make things better. Overall, this episode balances behind-the-scenes political insight with relatable and inspiring life lessons, making it a compelling listen whether you’re a fan of politics, writing, or personal growth. === Time Codes: 00:00 Cody's Notable Speeches and Appearances 05:10 Exclusive Interview Highlights 07:50 Oval Office Basement Stress Reflections 10:46 Legacy of War Silence 14:45 Meeting Presidents & Speechwriting Insights 15:41 Anonymity's Decline in Public Service 21:44 "Obama's Skill: Crafting Resonant Narratives" 23:53 Delayed Visit and Unifying Narratives 28:29 Envy of White House Advance Team 31:16 Visualizing Success Through Preparation 35:10 Moonshot Optimism 38:31 "Perseverance and Impactful Living" 39:11 "Milestone Gratitude Acknowledgment" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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', Shaun inspires listeners to pursue their passions and overcome challenges with hope and determination. --- Takeaways --- Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mr. Motivation 02:40 The Journey of Resilience 05:24 Living Life to the Fullest 08:22 Intentional Parenting 11:14 The Fusion of Music and Motivation 13:55 Overcoming Self-Doubt 16:58 The Power of Confidence 19:44 Inspiration from Childhood 22:22 Chasing Possibilities: The Influence of Media 22:50 Curiosity and Connection: The Power of Stories 24:19 Overcoming Trauma: Personal Growth Through Adversity 25:11 The Journey to Education: From Success to Service 26:32 Life Skills: Essential Education for the Future 28:32 Building the Breakthrough Bunker: A Community for Growth 31:06 Embracing Failure: The Path to Growth 34:49 Hope in Action: The Power of Storytelling 38:47 Lessons from Resilience: Finding Strength in Adversity 44:13 Messages for the World: Inspiring Change 45:09 Wisdom for the Next Generation: Surround Yourself with Light Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 dives deep into Warner’s philosophies on resilience, preparation, and personal growth, highlighting how adversity—rather than being an obstacle—actually fuels greatness. Time Codes: 00:00 Why life is great right now 10:24 Passion for Helping Others Achieve 12:27 Treasure House: Empowering Disabled Individuals 18:53 "Internal Reflection on Setbacks" 24:13 NFL Player Development Requires Patience 28:27 Allow Time for Growth 37:10 David's Faith Vs. Goliath 42:43 Arena Football's Unexpected Influence 43:42 Arena Football's Lasting Impact 52:18 Balancing Analytics and Intuition 55:30 "Mindful Training Through Sports" 01:01:07 Underdog Stories of Coach Dick 01:09:30 Emotional Off-Field Life 01:10:54 "Got Love or Got Jesus?" 01:16:04 Appreciating Positive Impact Efforts Takeaway Message: Kurt Warner’s story is a living testament to resilience, humility, and the power of preparation. The podcast is packed with motivational wisdom—not just for athletes, but for anyone facing setbacks or striving for greatness in any arena. Through Warner’s experiences, listeners are reminded that growth happens because of adversity, not in spite of it, and that unwavering faith, both in oneself and in a greater purpose, paves the way for extraordinary achievement. Recommended For: Anyone needing a boost of inspiration, whether sports fan or not, especially those interested in stories of perseverance, leadership, personal growth, and the making of an underdog legend. Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 of light, fostering a deep appreciation for the strength that lies within us all. Notes: 00:00 Intro 07:37 Deployment Challenges and Separation 12:45 Valley Fever: Florida Relocation for Health 15:59 Unexpected Heel Turn in Wrestling 21:22 Loss Shaped My Journey 27:51 Podcasting: A Platform for Healing 31:51 Loss of Close Companions 39:56 Overcoming Stigma: Mental Health Journey 42:06 Anger Management Techniques 49:46 Reflection and Resilience 54:40 Resilient Role Models 01:16:04 Embrace Your True Self - Other Episodes You Might Enjoy: #68 - Jennifer Marshall - Paranormal, Acting, Cancer, Uganda, Military, and Motherhood: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/ep-68-jennifer-marshall-paranormal-acting-cancer-uganda-military-and-motherhood/ #76 - Michael 'Rod' Rodriguez - Healing Through Action: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/ep-76-michael-rod-rodriguez-healing-through-action/ #78 - Vincent 'Rocco' Vargas - Healing Through Hitting: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/78-vincent-rocco-vargas-healing-through-hitting/ #79 - Nate Boyer - Community, Identity, and Healing Through Storytelling: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/79-nate-boyer-community-identity-and-healing-through-storytelling/ - Get in Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 volunteering in refugee camps to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to support clean water initiatives. But Nate’s story is about much more than impressive résumés. In their conversation, Martin and Nate dive deep into the power of storytelling, building stronger communities, overcoming the overwhelm of modern digital life, and the lessons Nate learned mentoring children with autism. They talk about bridging cultural and political divides, the search for purpose, and what real leadership looks like, both on and off the field and battlefield. SPOILER: Nate does a Macho Man Randy Savage impression in the episode. Notes: 00:00 Intro 02:55 Why life is great right now 03:49 Tanzania and trip with Water Boys 04:40 National Veterans Memorial and Museum 06:09 Actor he resembles 07:51 What's Front of mind 10:27 Message for 19-year old self 12:28 Life Lessons from children with Autism 17:49 Storytelling as mechanism to mesh cultural and political divides 21:20 Impact memorials have on storytelling 26:07 Specific story that moved through work with Merging Vets & Players 29:06 What he hopes to be remembered for 32:25 World Class Talent people may not know about him 34:08 Movie image depicting leadership 36:10 Billboard Message 37:54 Piece of wisdom to help people light their own torch and carry it forward 38:44 Upcoming projects and initiatives - Episodes You Might Enjoy: #68 - Jennifer Marshall - Paranormal, Acting, Cancer, Uganda, Military, and Motherhood: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/ep-68-jennifer-marshall-paranormal-acting-cancer-uganda-military-and-motherhood/ #76 - Michael 'Rod' Rodriguez - Healing Through Action: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/ep-76-michael-rod-rodriguez-healing-through-action/ #78 - Vincent 'Rocco' Vargas - Healing Through Hitting: https://www.passingthetorchpod.com/78-vincent-rocco-vargas-healing-through-hitting/ - Get in Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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-McChord, Wash. As if that were not enough, Vargas has also thrived in life outside the military. His accomplishments include: chef, podcaster, writer, producer, business entrepreneur, actor, and a partridge and a pear tree. From childhood to a special operations member, to a starring role in FX's hit TV series 'Sons Of Anarchy' spin-off: 'Mayans M.C.' Rocco understands that the world can seem unforgiving at times. Conversation: 00:00 "Nostalgic Baseball Card Memories" 04:12 Baseball Therapy for Stress Relief 06:48 Trauma Therapy: Healing Through Hitting 11:33 Holistic Healing for Veterans 16:40 Self-Love Through Daily Actions 18:28 Truth in Vulnerable Masculinity 22:10 Stay Active, Pursue Adventure 24:57 "From Military to Hollywood Writer" 29:12 "Passion for Influential Storytelling" 32:55 Rising Above: Perseverance in Hollywood 36:37 Walking My Truth Alone 38:25 Chasing Taylor Sheridan's Success 42:51 Comedy Dreams: Inspired by "Freak" 46:14 "Chase Love, Not Titles" 50:27 The Beauty of Family Cooking 54:06 Billboard of Hope and Change 55:04 "Anything Is Possible" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send 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 she decided that enough was enough and created a platform for military and veterans to share their stories, speak their truth, and bring awareness to the many issues surrounding military mental health. Your Story Doesn’t End Here was launched in 2021 and Rachel continues to use the podcast as well as a voice to advocate for those who can’t advocate for themselves. Episode Summary: In this episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster talks with Rachel Oswalt, a passionate advocate for mental health within the military community. Rachel shares insights from her journey as a U.S. Navy veteran and host of the podcast "Your Story Doesn't End Here." They dive into topics like transitioning to civilian life, the challenges of maintaining mental wellness, and the power of vulnerability in storytelling. Rachel reveals her plans to shift her podcast to a nonprofit model to further support military mental health. She reflects on her personal growth over the past few years and how sharing stories can help others feel less alone. The episode is filled with inspiring moments and reminders about resilience and self-compassion. The conversation wraps up with lighthearted questions about personal growth and Rachel's thoughts on the future. Overall, Rachel's story and insights provide meaningful takeaways for listeners about embracing change and supporting mental health in the military community. Topics: 05:07 Purposeful Business for Community Impact 06:57 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 11:16 Changing the World: A Collective Effort 15:20 Mixed Feelings on Military Service 17:54 Inauthenticity Among People 21:18 Generational Stigma: Embracing Vulnerability 26:05 Healing Through Sharing Stories 29:55 Military Life: Daily Dopamine Rush 33:30 Stagnant Post-Military Journey 36:17 Overcoming Stagnation Through Small Changes 38:35 Overcoming Uncertainty and Stuckness 42:34 "Inspiration Needed on Military Bases" Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance

Send us a text Background: Michael “Rod” Rodríguez Rod 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 2016, serving as President and CEO from 2018-2020 and again from 2021. Rod has also supported veterans through the George W. Bush Institute’s Military Service Initiative and was appointed a Fellow of the Explorers Club in 2013 for his research on traumatic brain injuries. He continues to assist veterans and charitable causes today. The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial Foundation was formed in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation by a small group of like-minded veterans, military spouses, and supportive Americans to honor the service and sacrifice of all individuals – both uniformed and non-uniformed – who have contributed to global counterterrorism efforts since September 11th, 2001. A distinguished Board of Directors comprised of individuals from military and non-military backgrounds leads the Foundation, with former President George W. Bush serving as the Foundation’s Honorary Chairman. Michael “Rod” Rodríguez, a former U.S. Army Green Beret who deployed ten times, is the Foundation’s President and CEO. Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance