Type of military unit
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111 episodes with color guard
7 episodes with color guard
2 episodes with color guard
12 episodes with color guard
5 episodes with color guard
2 episodes with color guard
2 episodes with color guard
2 episodes with color guard
2 episodes with color guard
THE INTERVIEW Native Americans serve at a higher percentage than the general population. Still, there are misunderstandings about their culture and spiritual beliefs even among their brothers and sisters in the armed forces. In this week's episode, Army veteran Mitchelene BigMan talks about her military service as a Native American, importance of culture, creation of a Native American women veterans nonprofit and more. SCUTTLEBUTT Down the Reddit Rabbit Hole: Native Americans and the U.S. Military Tribal flags removed from Phoenix VA hospital under new federal policy Memorial Honoring Native American U.S. Veterans proposed for Minnesota Capitol grounds Special Guest: Mitchelene BigMan.
This week On A Water Break, we're spinning into pageant season, breaking down the cost of drum corps, and celebrating some throwback Aussie hat glory. Hosts Nicole, Woody, and Jeremy from Drum Corps Today are joined by color guard director and pageant competitor AK Hazel for an episode packed with marching arts news, real talk, and lots of love for performers pushing boundaries.
CROWN BRASS • COACHELLA ENERGY • DCI LEGENDFrom Star of Indiana rookie to the face of Carolina Crown's famous brass line, educator MATT HARLOFF just checked off an unexpected bucket-list item: conducting a 60-piece ensemble for Travis Scott at Coachella. Hosts NICOLE YOUNGER and JOSÉ “JOEY” MONTES III dig into the email that started it all, the three-week scramble, and why saying “YES” to wild opportunities feeds your students, too.
This week On A Water Break, we're bringing you our monthly live-recorded episode, now debuting on the podcast feed! Hosts Jackie, Nicole, and Stephen are joined by special guest Taylor Poole, Percussion Caption Head for The Academy Drum & Bugle Corps — and the team goes in on everything from wrist technique to DCI performance order to how a snail and roller derby made it into a 32 Count Life Story.
This week, we're taking a break with two powerhouse performers who are redefining what it means to be visible — both on the floor and online. Hosts Jackie Brown and Nicole Younger sit down with Piper Click (University of Alabama, Alta Marea, Blue Devils) and Max Marr (Fantasia, Blue Devils) to talk about performing at the highest level while managing a growing social media presence during the competitive season.In this episode, Piper and Max share their 32 Count Life Stories, give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to balance school, rehearsal, and content creation, and reflect on how visibility, legacy, and pressure shape their experience as young leaders in the marching arts.
On this episode of On A Water Break we tackle a powerful and often unspoken issue in the activity: body shaming.Host Nicole Younger (@o2binpjs) is joined by co-hosts Alicia Sharp (@aliciaoninsta2) and Whitney Stone (@dancerwhit), alongside guest clinicians Carlos Herrera (@hellocarlosxd) and Erik Longey (@itsspelledwithak), for an emotional and honest discussion on body image, staff expectations, and how size discrimination shows up in the marching arts.From traumatic uniform fittings and audition comments to the struggle of masking and the impact of a single sentence, each guest shares personal stories and reflects on how we can all do better as educators, performers, and leaders. They also spotlight organizations offering real support, like Melanin Mosaic, the WGI Participant Protection system, and RISE (Resource for Instruction, Safety & Education).
We're back and LIVE again on YouTube with hosts Trish O'Shea (@trishdish1002), Jackie Brown (@spintronixguard), Jose Montes III (@marchingbymontes), and Joey Montes — joined this week by winter guard judge and educator Ashley D'Amore and our favorite sideline perspective, Sharon Boyd (@therealbandmom).SEGMENT 1: THE SIDELINES & BONUS EPISODE PREVIEWSWe kick things off with a quick welcome and look ahead at what's coming up: An international episode featuring the Color Guard Alliance of the Philippines A candid chat with Brandy Keeton (University of Alabama & Alta Marea) A WGI engagement recap with the couple from Tampa Independent A summer preview with siblings Piper & Avery Click heading to Blue Devils Alicia's deep dive into body size and space in the marching artsSEGMENT 2: MARCHING ARTS NEWS Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps sparks controversy with a $1700 “Field Set Crew” post targeting 18–22-year-olds. The backlash was immediate — and now they're “reevaluating.” Sharon (The Band Mom) gives her honest thoughts. Jackie reports on Avon Band Director Jay Webb's appearance in Travis Scott's Coachella show Spartans announce their 2025 show “Mistica” but face heat for using AI-generated art before quietly swapping it out Michigan's Reeths-Puffer HS Band is the focus of a new documentary WGI launches BEAM: a real-time performance feedback platform Ultimate Drill Book rolls out the “Listening Zones” feature to help students better understand ensemble timing Peak Group Travel shares their weekly travel tipSEGMENT 3: 60-SECOND TECH BLOCK / WATER WE DOING / GUSH AND GOAshley D'Amore delivers a 60-Second Tech Block on Dynamic Efforts & Qualities — and the crew reacts in real time. In this week's “Water We Doing?” segment: Sharon asks why indoor winds still don't get as much attention Ashley begs groups to practice getting on and off the floor to avoid last-second chaos Trish wants drum corps to stop waiting until mid-season to announce their show themes Jose shares frustrations as a drill writer being asked for August-ready material in AprilWe wrap with “Gush and Go”: Jackie's middle school mini guard is ready for their big debut Ashley shares her summer spinning with her 2-year-old to Chapel Roan Sharon celebrates her son graduating with a music ed degree and aging out with the Blue Devils Jose has a few open choreography spots and is finally relaxing after WGIWant to be a guest on the pod? Fill out the form at the link in our bio or email us at onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com. Don't forget to follow us @onawaterbreak, leave a review, and share the show.We'll see you at the next rehearsal — On A Water Break.
This week Nick Averwater talks with Faith Serna, Assistant Band Director and Color Guard Coordinator at Highland High School in Highland, AR. The Highland School District serves several small towns in north central Arkansas. Faith grew up in the district, and studied with two band directors who are now her colleagues, Hope and Greg Bruner.In this episode Faith will tell us more about getting students interested in color guard, the equipment needed, and more.Our conversation was recorded in the Fall of 2024. We've broken it up into two episodes, and this is part one.Here are some documents and videos from Faith that will help you if you're interested in starting a color guard for your band.
This week, Nicole (@o2bnpjs) is joined by Whitney (@dancerwhit) and Alicia (@aliciaoninsta2) for an episode packed with big announcements, fresh perspectives, and two exciting new voices joining the sidelines!We're thrilled to welcome guest clinicians Carlos Herrera (@hellocarlosxd) and Erik Longey (@itsspelledwithak) to the podcast! They each share their 32 Count Life Stories — from band kid beginnings to taking leadership roles in the marching arts.
This week, On A Water Break: Around the World takes us to the Philippines, where host Grantis Peranda sits down with percussionist, educator, and visionary leader Patricia Real Barairo, founder of the Color Guard Alliance of the Philippines (CGAP).Patricia shares her journey from her early days in Quezon City's drum & lyre scene to building a nationwide network of performers, directors, and choreographers that are redefining what color guard looks like in Southeast Asia.Host: Grantis Peranda (@grantisimo_p)Guest: Patricia Real Barairo (@colorguardphilippines)In this episode:– what drum & lyre means in the Philippines– how Patricia transitioned from percussion to pageantry– founding CGAP and performing at WGI Asia– traveling across 7,000 islands for competitions– the rise of Camp Spin, Spin Fest, and color guard battles– launching WMBO: the World Marching Band Organization– how color guard is becoming part of Filipino festivals, TV, and weddingsCGAP turns 10 in 2025, and Patricia has big plans: concerts, workshops, competitions, an equipment expo, and international appearances in Thailand, Malaysia, and beyond.
We're wrapping up the WGI 2025 Color Guard season with three incredible returning guests who just took the floor by storm in Dayton:
Floresville High School's Air Force Junior ROTC cadets competed April 5 in the Hal Aaron Memorial Drill Competition in Austin and came home with several honors. The team brought home first place in Sabres Regulation Drill, second in Color Guard, and third in Mixed Physical Fitness. The teams are under the direction of aerospace science instructors Master Sgt. Manuel Gamboa and Maj. Morshe Araujo. •First-place Sabres Regulation Drill team — Joel Mora, Kaideyn Striegel, Maddison Prater, Cadet Commander Victoria Bauer, Callie Gurganus, Abigail Valdez, and Bently Roberts •Color Guard Team, second place — Paul Turner, Joshua Simmons, Ariel Casanova, and...Article Link
DrumCorpsAF Minisode - Double Ewe Gee Eye Finals - Guard - Host Fossil Chops is joined by Jeremy and Nicole from the On A Water Break Podcast to talk all about the 2025 WGI Guard championships and explain what a drop spin is to Fossil Chops for the fifth time.We want to hear YOUR voices - call our submission line at 913-390-3190 and leave your best 2-3 minute take. You can use your real name or a pseudonym.Leave us a review on iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drum-corps-af/id1367724568 Drum Corps AF is an irreverent podcast about drum corps and the marching arts. We love the activity, but we also get sick of all the saccharine BS that passes for commentary. Call it snark or call it shade, it's what we do. But at the end of the day, we still love drum corps.To join in the Drum Corps AF community, check us out at Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/drumcorpsaf/Instagram: https://instagram.com/drumcorpsafpodcastBlueSky: @drumcorpsafpodcast.bsky.socialShow Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1A8ggCpNm6-u3NTB4uGQoLsgVDe1H7rGlxl61qSg8go0/edit?usp=sharing Credits:Hosts: Brandon “Fossil Chops” WorfGuests: Jeremy, NicoleProducer: Fossil ChopsSugar Daddy: Jeff ReamDrum Corps AF is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker, and wherever else you get your podcasts.
This week's On A Water Break is coming to you LIVE for the first time ever!
In this powerful bonus episode, On A Water Break tackles an emotional and timely subject: how the marching arts community responds in moments of crisis. In light of the recent Texas drumline tragedy and the devastating California wildfires, we explore the systems, support networks, and people who rise up when everything is on the line.Alicia is joined by rotating hosts Ricardo and Nicole along with Band director Spencer Milligan for an urgent and candid roundtable conversation about safety, preparedness, and how programs can act before tragedy strikes.We also feature an inspiring interview co-led by Christopher Rutt and Alicia with Peter Ye and Allison Avina-Wyant from Palisades Charter High School in Los Angeles. When their campus was impacted by wildfires over winter break, their band and color guard programs faced immediate disruption. Hear how they worked together—with help from the Santa Monica High School staff and band parents—to continue their seasons and keep students connected through music and performance.From forming partnerships and sharing rehearsal spaces to securing donated instruments and navigating circuit policies, their story highlights the resilience of the performing arts.Topics Covered in This Episode
This week, we're highlighting more powerhouse women in the marching arts as part of our Women's History Month series.This episode features hosts:
In this Women's History Month special, we're bringing you an episode full of inspiration, empowerment, and wisdom from some of the brightest and most powerful women in the marching arts world. Hosted by Alicia Sharp, with a dynamic group of rotating co-hosts including Ashlee Amos, Nicole Younger, and Whitney Stone, this episode dives deep into their experiences, challenges, and triumphs as they share their journeys in a traditionally male-dominated field.This week's episode is packed with incredible conversations about leadership, mentorship, and breaking barriers. The panel talks about gender issues in marching arts, the progress being made, and how they are shaping the future for the next generation of women in the activity. We also explore burnout, career transitions, and the power of building confidence and authenticity.
Welcome back to On A Water Break! This week, Jackie is hosting and we're kicking off Women's History Month with a special episode featuring incredible voices from across the marching arts world.Joining us are: Trish Alicia WhitneyWe also have a truly inspiring guest this week: Denise Bonfiglio, a pioneering force in the marching arts with over 50 years of experience. From her early days with the 27th Lancers to her work with Santa Clara Vanguard, Denise has not only redefined performance but mentored countless artists.Additionally, we're joined by Kristi Hebert (aka @Supermomma on TikTok), who's taking her group to Dayton for the first time. Kristi shares her fears, hopes, and questions about the big step, and our panel of experts helps guide her through the process.This episode is packed with incredible stories and advice, and we'll also take a deep dive into Kristi's 32 Count Life Story, plus discuss current news in the marching arts.Don't forget to: Subscribe and hit notifications on your favorite podcast app Write us a review and share with a friend Send us your questions or topics via email at onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media @OnAWaterBreak for updates and more Interested in being on the show? Fill out the guest form linked in our bio on social mediaLinks: March Forth on March Fourth - DCI WGI Advisory Board Meetings Randall Standridge's Post on Mental HealthFollow Us:Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @OnAWaterBreakThanks for listening, and we'll see you at the next rehearsal… on a water break!This version summarizes the episode with all the important details while keeping it within a concise format!
The Keystone Indoor Drill Association (KIDA) is one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country, serving the region since its inception in 1981. The organization sponsors competitive events for Indoor Color Guard, Percussion, Dance, and Winds. “Back in the day, we used to also have a competition with majorettes and drill teams. We don't have any of those anymore, but we're, you know. very, very strong with our members for Color Guard and Indoor Drumline, “said Matt Carraher, President of KIDA. There are similarities and differences between marching bands and indoor drills that includes percussion and ensembles. “So, the easiest way to say it is if you take a marching band and you take away everything except the drums and then mix it together with Cirque du Soleil and then put it in a gym, that's what indoor drumline is. So, it's not just playing the drums or drumline the movie from 20 years ago. It's not just that. We call it pageantry because it's there's choreography, there's dancers, there's props, there's crazy costuming, there's big sound systems, there's lighting, there's all kinds of things that go into it.” KIDA has over 100 participating schools and independent organizations from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. “You know, our big goal and... as an organization is just to make sure that we're fostering the environment of growth for these students and creating a great experience for them. And that's really our goal is we want our events to be a great experience for these students to have a performance outlet and have something that they really look forward to, the audience really looks forward to, and they can do some really cool things.” Listen to the podcast to hear the entire conversation. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join us for a special On A Water Break bonus feature as we take a trip around the world, starting in Thailand! In this two-part episode, host Grantis Peranda sits down with Kosin Suebprasitwong, the president of the Marching Band Association of Thailand, to explore the growth and development of marching arts in Thailand and beyond.In Part 1, Kosin shares his journey from being a marching band student to becoming a leading figure in Thailand's marching arts scene. He discusses his role in creating the Thailand World Music Championships (TWMC) and the challenges he's overcome to make the marching arts accessible to schools of all sizes and budgets. Learn about the unique competitions in Thailand, from street parades to marching battles and modern concert bands.In Part 2, Kosin dives into the creation of the Thai Marching Band Association and his efforts to build a global network for marching arts through the Asian Marching Band Confederation (AMBC) and the World Marching Band Organization (WMBO). He talks about the importance of education and government support, as well as his dream of expanding marching arts to every country in the world. Kosin's passion for growing the activity internationally, including bringing marching bands to countries like Bhutan, is truly inspiring.Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the global impact of marching arts and how you can get involved!For more information on Kosin's work and the organizations he leads, visit: Kosin's Website Marching Band Association of Thailand Thailand World Music Championships Contact Kosin: gosin.supersitvong.comFor more about Grantis Peranda, the host of On A Water Break, check out: Grantis' Website Follow Grantis on Instagram: @grantisimo_pFollow On A Water Break on social media: Instagram: @onawaterbreak Facebook: @onawaterbreakSubscribe, share, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts to support the show. We'll see you at the next rehearsal!
Hosted by Ricardo , Woody, and Nicole, On A Water Break brings together voices from across the marching arts community, featuring incredible performers, directors, and industry professionals.What: The podcast where we dive into the conversations you and your friends are having during water breaks—everything from performance stories to what it's like being part of the marching arts family. This season's special focus is on celebrating Black History Month, with powerful stories from African American performers shaping the future of our activity.Main Host: Ricardo (with special interviews by Nicole)Episode Description:Welcome back to On A Water Break! This week, we're featuring incredible African American performers from across the marching arts. Joining us are: Madeline Williams – Newest Drum Major at Blue Devils (@maddy_william_s) | Blue Devils Instagram: @BlueDevils Christian Elliott-Haynes – Performer with Sacramento Mandarins/Atlanta Quest, Battery Coordinator for Cass High School Marching Band (@chrisxdrums) | Sacramento Mandarins Instagram: @SacMandarins | Atlanta Quest Instagram: @atlantaquest Ayasia Lay – Performer with AMP Winter Guard (@Ayasialay_) | AMP Winter Guard Instagram: @AMPWinterGuard Omari Holaki – Performer with Carolina Crown (@omarimholaki) | Carolina Crown Instagram: @CarolinaCrown Josiah Cooperwood – Performer with University of Alabama's Million Dollar Band (@mdbdrummajors) | Million Dollar Band Instagram: @MillionDollarBandThis episode is packed with inspiring stories from these performers, and next week we'll bring you a powerful episode with Black female band directors. Stay tuned!Don't forget to: Subscribe and hit notifications on your favorite podcast app Write us a review and share with a friend Send us your questions or topics via email at onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media @OnAWaterBreak for updates and more Interested in being on the show? Fill out the guest form linked in our bio on social mediaLinks: Washington Commanders Marching Band Auditions: wavy.com/news/local-news/washington-commanders-marching-band-auditions-in-dmv/ Metallica Marching Band Contest: metallicamarchingband.com Feature Article on O'Neill Sanford: theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/entertainment_life/baton-rouge-band-director/article_2aa7ee0a-e581-11ef-ab82-4fb8d447cf60.html DCI Scholarships Auction: dci.org/news/former-cadets-member-to-auction-painting-in-support-of-dci-scholarshipsFollow Us:Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @OnAWaterBreakThanks for listening, and we'll see you at the next rehearsal… on a water break
Welcome to On A Water Break, the podcast where we talk about everything you and your friends are discussing during your marching arts rehearsals, on a water break. This week, we're joined by the hosts of Drum Corps AF, Sage Lee and Brandon Worf, for an unfiltered, honest, and often hilarious conversation about drum corps and the marching arts world.In this episode, we dive into the origins of Drum Corps AF, explore some of the most shocking moments from the podcast, and discuss their no-holds-barred approach to commentary. Sage and Brandon share their thoughts on dream guests, the most surprising things they've learned, and the controversies that have stirred the community. Plus, we've got some listener-submitted questions to really put them on the spot!What You'll Hear in This Episode: The creation and evolution of Drum Corps AF Behind-the-scenes stories and shocking moments Unfiltered opinions on drum corps and the marching arts Listener-submitted questions for Sage and Brandon The Water We Doing & Gush and Go segmentsAbout Drum Corps AF: Drum Corps AF is a podcast that cuts through the sweet talk and dives into the real issues of the marching arts world. Hosted by Sage Lee and Brandon Worf, it's a podcast where snark and shade meet a deep love for the activity. Whether it's discussing the latest news, diving into fan favorites, or calling out the elephant in the room, Drum Corps AF keeps things real.Where to Find Us: Instagram: @OnAWaterBreak Facebook: On A Water Break Podcast YouTube: On A Water Break YouTube TikTok: @OnAWaterBreakFind Drum Corps AF: Website: Drum Corps AF Instagram: @DrumCorpsAFPodcast Facebook: Drum Corps AF YouTube: Drum Corps AFSubscribe, Share & Review:Don't forget to subscribe to On A Water Break and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with a fellow marching arts enthusiast to keep the conversation going.#OnAWaterBreak #DrumCorpsAF #MarchingArts #DrumCorps #Podcast #MarchingBand #DrumCorpsCommunity #SageLee #BrandonWorf #PodcastInterview #WaterBreakChatThis version includes optimized keywords for podcast listeners and is written in a more streamlined way to attract listeners looking for drum corps and marching arts discussions. Let me know if you need any further tweaks!
Have you ever wondered what it takes to host the Superbowl of Color Guard, Percussion and Winds? In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Tina Schirmeister, Special Events and Staffing Manager at WGI Sport of the Arts, to uncover the secrets behind organizing the prestigious WGI Championships in Dayton, Ohio. Tina takes us behind the scenes, sharing how WGI brings together international teams from Costa Rica, Japan, London, and beyond to compete in indoor color guard, percussion, and winds divisions. From coordinating regionals to managing the championship weekend with over 150 passionate volunteers, she breaks down the strategies that make it all possible. She also shares how you can volunteer for the annual WGI Championships and how they volunteer-staffed event is structured for success. Key Takeaways: 1:17 What is WGI? Tina explains WGI's mission as the "sport of the arts" and its role as the governing body for indoor marching arts. 1:48 International Participation: Discover how WGI attracts performers from around the world. 2:30 Event Structure: Understand the championship process, from regionals to finals. 6:56 WGI Con: A biannual educational convention for instructors and designers in the marching arts. 7:54 Volunteer Coordination: Learn about the essential role of volunteers and how they make the event successful. Resources: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-schirmeister/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tina.schirmeister
Join Joey and Austin as they welcome Susie "Mama Winds" Harloff along with some 2025 WGI Winds Performers.This week, we're wrapping up our WGI Preview with a deep dive into the Winds division!
Sean Ross Sapp and Denise Salcedo (@_DeniseSalcedo) bring you the third annual Fightful Awards, with cameos from your favorite talent. See who won the fan votes!Thank you to our incredible sponsors for helping to make the Fightful Awards possible! Please support them below as they've supported us:Thank you to our presents sponsor, NordVPN! Grab your EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal by going to http://nordvpn.com/fightful to get a Huge Discount off your NordVPN Plan + a Bonus Gift! It's completely risk free with Nord's 30 day money-back guarantee! https://nordvpn.com/fightful Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!The biggest names in combat sports trust Big Smile Co to turn vision into victory. Elite PR, production & crisis management for wrestling talent, promotions & brands. Ready to level up? Schedule your free consultation: BigSmile.coMake a difference in the lives of the Veteran's Memorial High School Marching Band and Color Guard by supporting the costs of their uniforms, equipment, and travel expenses here: https://gofund.me/c24a8ef5. Help turn their dreams into a reality!Have you ever wanted to learn the stories of wrestling from the beginning of time, but don't know where to start? The brother/sister duo at RassleRecap have you covered. Follow on YouTube.com/@RassleRecap, on all social media at @rasslerecap, and listen wherever you get your podcasts. Join #MrWrestleGamer on Youtube for exciting WWE 2K24 gameplay, expert tips, and online battles with our growing community. Whether you're dominating MyFaction or enjoying live streams, there's always action waiting for you. Subscribe now on YouTube, TikTok, BlueSky, and Instagram to level up your WWE Gaming experience!Are you a passionate women's wrestling fan? AEW.one has you covered for the best coverage and analysis surrounding the AEW women's division. Head over to AEW.one or search for “AEW Women's Division Blog” on YouTube and on Bluesky.Looking for trendy wrestling merchandise that sets you apart from the rest? Wrestling Winedown is a Black, female-founded merch brand and podcast dedicated to professional wrestling and their favorite adult beverage: wine. Get your merch created for women, by women and check out Wrestling Winedown on X, Bluesky or Instagram at wwdcast and at shop.wrestlingwinedownlv.com. Cheers!Are you firm? Firmly in love with wrestling?Join JPJ and Drew Nicholas on LoveWrestlingCA's Youtube channel to talk WWE on Tuesday mornings and AEW on Thursday mornings. Follow @FirmlyLW on Twitter for Firmly Love Wrestling, along with the hosts JPJ and Drew on both Twitter and Blue Sky @JPJLovesGaming and @TheDrewNicholas!Pacific Wrestling Network proudly presents GLORIOUS - A Pro-Wrestling Podcast hosted by two nice guys from Portland, Oregon! They're here to bring you coverage of the wrestling world from AEW & WWE to the indies of the Pacific Northwest, plus a live hotline and exclusive interviews. Find them on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and on Instagram and X (@pacificwrestlingnetwork) for even more wrestling content.Who's your favorite superhero? That's a choice you can make by watching Women Of Wrestling or WOW Superheroes every Saturday on your local tv channel. Join tag team partners Stephanie and Katrina as they get into the action Every Wednesday following a new WOW Episode, and follow Steph on Twitter and IG at @queenstephhardy and Kat on Twitter and IG @inkatw3trust.Wins, losses, rematches, title matches, and more! RassleStats has you covered with easy to read graphs and statistics that are updated daily. Make like many of your favorite stars and follow @Rasslestats on Twitter, Bluesky, and Threads to join the cult of probabilities.DO NOT MAKE THEM TAKE UP THE GHOUL WRESTLING PODCAST GRIFT. Wrestling Brain is simply good guys making good wrestling shows, supported by a kind and passionate community that turns great shows into extraordinary ones. Join Wrestling Brain on Bluesky and visit twitch.tv/wrestlingbrain for AEW analysis, throwback content, and more. Let's have fun!Looking to bump up the quality of your brand? SEND HOOKS. Matthew Hooks has been trusted by national and international brands to provide the best voiceover work in the business. From content creators to Fortune 500 companies, he's got you covered. Visit hookedinvoiceovers.com to learn more.No, it's not tables, ladders, or chairs! No, it's not Hornswoggle, and it certainly isn't Titus O'Neil. Downunder the ring is a podcast that brings you closer to the heart of pro wrestling, hosted by a wrestling fan and former wrestler from New Zealand. Watch, listen, or watch-listen anywhere you enjoy podcasts, and check out their content on YouTube, TikTok, and wherever you get your wrestling fix!Pick up "The Storytelling Salesman" by Fightful Founder Jimmy Van at shop.fightful.com for insights into how to make your business better!Our Sponsors:* Check out Hims: https://hims.com/FIGHTFULSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fightful-pro-wrestling-and-mma-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Jackie, Woody, Jack, and Bobbey are joined by TIktok Band Director Rick Schwartz (@nj_banddirector on Tiktok)Here all the news, tips, and things you should be doing this time of year. Plus Water we doing and Gush and Go's!
Join Ricardo, Peyton, and new host Grantis as they talk with the news makers that were a part of some of the amazing recent News stories. From Yash with the UGA Band in New Orleans during the terrorist attack to Michael with the 605 Band at the Rose Parade with over 500 members.All this and the rest of the news stories you and your friends are talking about On A Water Break.
From Hannah Montana to snack bag scandals, this final interview of the fall sports insider season has it ALL! Explore Red Mountain's girls golf team with Lydia Rogers and Brooke Gilbert! This 25-minute episode is jam-packed with fun, friends, and food. The fall sports season is over, and so is our coverage of the fall sports season! But keep an eye out, coming up is the Winter Sports insider, featuring unique teams such as E-Sports and Colorguard! Additionally, we're looking to feature new clubs and organizations on the Red Mountain Radio, so stay tuned to get more details on the happenings here at Red Mountain High! If you or your organization is looking to appear on the podcast, you can email us at: redmtnradio@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram @redmtnradio to get behind the scenes insights! Hosted by: Brooklyn Anaya Starring: Lydia Rogers, Brooke Gilbert
Nicole hosts, along with Alicia and guest Clinician, Paul Simondac (@paulscript), a group of WGI World Class 2025 Performers. Here what's going on at rehearsals and how the season is shaping up with some amazing performers.Jacob Allison (@jacoballizon97) - AMP (@ampwinterguard) Andrew SeeBaran (@iandrewmark) - Pride of Cincinnati (@prideofcincinnati)Colby Tapp (@c0lbytapp)- Etude (@etudewinterguard)Here what's going on at rehearsals and how the season is shaping up with some amazing performers.
Jackie & Trevor go on a Water Break with Tyler Dieterich from Varsity Performing Arts to talk about their Pep Band Competition and share with you the tips and tricks to making your pep band stand out!Don't miss a beat! Follow "On A Water Break" on social media to stay connected with the latest news, insights, and discussions from the marching arts community. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Alicia Sharp -@aliciasharp215Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Hosted by The Lower Manhattan Historical Association, Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. and its Fraunces Tavern Museum, and cultureNOW. Each October the Lower Manhattan Historical Association celebrates two of the Continental Army's most decisive Revolutionary War victories, the battles of Saratoga and Yorktown. Both General Horatio Gates, the commanding general at the Battle of Saratoga, and Alexander Hamilton, a key aide to General George Washington and the leader the climactic charge against redoubt 10 at the Battle of Yorktown, are buried at Trinity Churchyard. Additionally, the Battle of Yorktown is symbolic of the United States of America's oldest military alliance. Powerful French land forces, commanded by the Comte de Rochambeau, and an equally important and sizable French fleet, commanded by the Comte de Grasse, played a crucial role in the defeat and capitulation of the British army. Participants include the Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. Color Guard; Abby Suckle, Vice President Lower Manhattan Historical Association & President cultureNOW; Ambrose Madison Richardson III, President, Lower Manhattan Historical Association; James S. Kaplan, Former President/co-Founder Lower Manhattan Historical Association; Elizabeth Kahn Kaplan, The Alexander Hamilton Awareness Society; Camille Letournel, French Cadet, United States Military Academy at West Point; Alain H. Dupuis, President of the Federation of French War Veterans, 2nd Vice President & Deputy General Delegate, Le Souvenir Francais in the United States. Also includes the inaugural presentation of the Frederic P. Vigneron Award to the Federation of French War Veterans.* This program was recorded on Saturday, October 19, 2024. *The views of the speakers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Sons of the Revolution℠ in the State of New York, Inc. or its Fraunces Tavern® Museum.
For Our Season 3 Premiere we had to bring in one of the funniest Band parents we know. You've seen her on Tiktok as TinaMadlibs and now meet her on this episode. Nicole, Cindy, & Alicia host our season 3 premiere. Don't miss it!Don't miss a beat! Follow "On A Water Break" on social media to stay connected with the latest news, insights, and discussions from the marching arts community. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Alicia Sharp -@aliciasharp215Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Trish welcomes the Staff from Washington Elementary School in Allentown, PA to talk about their creation of the Dance & Flag Team. Help them get funds so they can get the equipment they need to make this program grow.Check out their GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/3cef3166?Guest CliniciansNanette DeRemerTanja TurchanikTristyn PiemontesiListen to the main episode to keep up on everything going on in the marching arts with our hosts:Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.art#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline
This week on The Varsity Radio Show, we're joined by two incredible Guntersville High School sophomores, Libby Isom and Brooke Braswell! These multi-sport athletes bring an electric energy that lights up the room. Between their four sports and larger-than-life personalities, their interview is a must-listen.We've also got Greg Glasscock breaking down the latest in local sports, a “Clutch Moment” about how you could become a real-life ghostbuster, and an exciting round of Varsity Freestyle with one lucky caller. Think you could win next week? Tune in to find out!Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend. We'll see you right back here next week!
Stephen hosts this week as Christine joins Ricardo, Jack, and Trish as they listen to more clips and talk Water We Doing and Gush and Go's!Don't miss a beat! Follow "On A Water Break" on social media to stay connected with the latest news, insights, and discussions from the marching arts community. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI:
Jackie is back and ready for everyone to join her in the the Season 2 FInale part 1. Stephen, Trish, Nicole, Jack & Ricardo join Jackie to talk about everything we got into during season 2.Don't miss a beat! Follow "On A Water Break" on social media to stay connected with the latest news, insights, and discussions from the marching arts community. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Join First time host Joey and first time Producer Alicia as they welcome Emily, Trish, and Austin along with first time guests Sara Shields & Johnn Guzman as they discuss first times in marching band. From first shows to first kisses plenty of fun first stories happened at marching band.Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Join Austin along with Sean and Woody as they welcome guest clinicians from across the country to discuss what band is like across the US.Don't miss a beat! Follow "On A Water Break" on social media to stay connected with the latest news, insights, and discussions from the marching arts community. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI:
Join Ricardo as he hosts with Trish, Austin and Joey a discussion with some amazing clinicians about the crazy weather the marching arts has had to deal with, specifically our most recent dealings with hurricanes.Join us along with guest cliniciansJeannine Ford - @tarponconservatoryPat Miller Kevin Young - @enkabandEros Trujillo - @fixitgruntDive into the "Water We Doing" segment, where the hosts engage in thought-provoking discussions and provide insightful commentary on the various experiences and challenges faced by marching arts professionals and participants.Celebrate the triumphs and achievements of the marching arts community during the "Gush and Go" segment, where the hosts enthusiastically share their excitement and pride in the remarkable accomplishments of their students, staff, and programs.#MarchingArtsPodcast #MarchingBandPodcast #ColorGuardPodcast #PercussionPodcast #MarchingArtsEducation #MarchingArtsCommunity #NorthCarolinaState #WakeForest #MorganStateFollow "On A Water Break" on:Instagram: @onaWaterBreakPodcastFacebook: On A Water Break PodcastTwitter: @onaWaterBreakPodDon't miss a beat - subscribe to the "On A Water Break" podcast and immerse yourself in the captivating conversations that shape the ever-evolving world of marching arts.Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.com
Join our hosts Nicole, Bobbey, and Cindy as they explore BandTober with a band new Band DIrector, Sean McWilliams. News, Water We, Doing, Gush & Go's and more on this weeks episode of On A Water Break.Don't miss a beat - subscribe to the "On A Water Break" podcast and immerse yourself in the captivating conversations that shape the ever-evolving world of marching arts.Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI:
Get into this episode where Jack and Nicole dive deep into the recent Tatu in Edinburgh Scotland and Colorado with the amazing Colleen and Zac!Follow "On A Water Break" on:Instagram: @onaWaterBreakPodcastFacebook: On A Water Break PodcastTwitter: @onaWaterBreakPodDon't miss a beat - subscribe to the "On A Water Break" podcast and immerse yourself in the captivating conversations that shape the ever-evolving world of marching arts.Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artKeywords: Marching arts podcast, Marching band podcast, Color guard podcast, Percussion podcast, Marching arts education, Marching arts community, drum major, flourish, tatuThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.com
Join Trish, Woody, and Austin along with Guest host Carlos Alicea as they deep dive into Austin and Carlos' recent judging gig in Costa RicaMeet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artFeaturingLexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_dudaThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Go On A Water Break with Sergio Bravo from Marching Vlogs. Stephen & Joey dive deep into the beginnings of the company and how it grew into the social media juggernaut that it is!Guests:Sergio Bravo - Marching Vlogs - @marchingvlogsListen to the main episode to keep up on everything going on in the marching arts with our hosts:Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.art#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline
Join our hosting panel as they talk all about WGI-CON 2024 with some amazing guests. We hear about all the inside scoop and behind the scenes of everything that went down at this year's event from presenters and attendees. Join our special guests Tony Lymon and Jara Clark along with some of our regular hosts as we go deep in WGIcon 2024Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artFeaturingLexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_dudaThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community, colorguard, dci, WGI
Join hosts Trish, Nicole, Austin, & Ricardo for the latest episode of the "On A Water Break" marching arts podcast, where they discuss all the latest news, trends, and happenings in the world of marching bands, color guard, drum corps, and more. This episode features special guests clinician Jeremy from Drum Corps Today and a special feature on our Host Woody hosted by Jackie Brown.Be sure to follow the On A Water Break podcast on all social media platforms and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more exclusive content. Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with your fellow drum corps, marching band, and marching arts enthusiasts!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardStephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickCindy Barry - @leandermommaNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgTrevor Bailey - @t_pain151Trish O'Shea - @trishdish1002Beth Beccone - @bether7189Chris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Cynthia Bernard - @cynthiabernAshlee Amos - @famousamossss_Theo Harrison - @harrisontheo07Stephanie Click - @stephanieclickWhitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Ashley Tran - @itsashleytranJack Goudreau - @goudreau_Bill Woodward - @remoking100Emily Nee - @tch.makes.artRicardo Robinson-Shinall - @ricardorrobinsonAustin Hall - @Austin_hall10Jose Montes - @joeymontes57Bobbey Biddle - @bobbeyboy107Peyton Billhart - @peytonbrillhartMusic provided by leydamusic.com Follow him @josh.leydaAvatars provided by @tch.makes.artFeaturingLexi Duda - Host for On A Water Break In Rhinestones - The Stories of the Twirlers @lexi_dudaThank you also to @guardcloset#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumlineFollow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090796340038Tiktok:www.tiktok.com/onawaterbreakInstagram: instagram.com/onawaterbreakContact Us:Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.onawaterbreak.comKeywords:Drum Corps International, DCI, Marching Music, Marching Arts, Drum Corps, Marching Band, Marching Percussion, Marching Guard, Marching Arts Podcast, Drum Corps Podcast, Marching Music Podcast, Marching Arts Community, Drum Corps Community, Marching Band Community:Be sure to subscribe to the "On A Water Break" podcast on your favorite platforms, and follow us on social media:- Podcast: OnAWaterBreak- Instagram: @onawaterbreak- TikTok: @onawaterbreak- Facebook: On A Water BreakFor more great content about marching bands, color guard, drum corps, and the broader marching arts community, check out our YouTube channel: On A Water Break PodcastKeywords:marching arts podcast, on a water break, marching band, color guard, drum corps, social media, Sam Mohler, La Chewy, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Finale music notation, college marching bands, TikTok
Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks '96 discusses the absolute importance of standards and integrity in leadership, and how a new, more rigorous approach at the Academy will build that in to cadets making them Day-1 leaders. SUMMARY Brigadier General Gavin P. Marks, Commandant of the Air Force Academy, shares his journey from being a young man in Atlanta, Georgia to becoming a pilot and eventually serving as the Commandant. He discusses his experiences at the Air Force Academy, including basic cadet training and the challenges he faced. General Marks emphasizes the importance of perseverance, leaning on support networks, and maintaining high standards in leadership. He also reflects on the impact of the Academy on his personal and professional development. General Gavin Marks reflects on his personal journey and the impact of his wife on his military career. He discusses the importance of being adaptable and humble as a leader and the unique responsibilities of command. He shares his decision to return to the Air Force Academy and the changes he is implementing to better prepare cadets for the challenges of great power competition. General Marks emphasizes the love and passion that the leaders at the Academy have for developing future officers and encourages listeners to continue dreaming big. OUR FAVORITE QUOTES "How you do anything is how you do everything." "There's always somebody better." "I want to make sure that they feel like they got their money's worth from a military development perspective or military training perspective." "The leaders at the Air Force Academy, from top to bottom, love deeply, deeply love the institution, and are incredibly passionate about the development of these young men and women into officers in the Air Force and the Space Force." "Continue to dream big. Don't let anyone dissuade you from goals that you have. And as it relates specifically to the Air Force Academy, it is absolutely worth it." SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK CHAPTERS 00:00: Introduction and Background 01:53: Returning to the Air Force Academy 02:52: Young Gavin Marks: Childhood and Calling to Serve 07:04: Challenges and Growth in Basic Cadet Training 08:29: Lessons in Leadership and Perseverance 11:45: Choosing the Air Force Academy and Pilot Training 15:06: Reflections on the Academy's Impact 20:52: Leadership Experiences as a Cadet 23:43: Lessons in Leadership and Perception 27:55: Successes and Career Progression 32:35: Meeting His Wife and Reflecting on Tinker Air Force Base 37:25: Personal Journey and the Impact of Relationships 57:54: Changes in the Life of a Cadet 01:05:48: Challenges and Partnerships 01:09:39: Rigor and Expectations 01:11:09: Love and Passion for Developing Future Officers 01:12:34: The Value and Worth of Attending the Air Force Academy TAKEAWAYS The importance of perseverance, resilience, and grit in overcoming challenges, especially during difficult experiences like the Air Force Academy. The value of having a strong support network, including family and friends, to help navigate challenging times. The significance of leadership roles and experiences during the Air Force Academy in shaping one's development and future success. The Air Force Academy's focus on evolving its training and development methods to better prepare cadets for the challenges of great power competition. The deep passion and commitment of the Air Force Academy's leadership in developing leaders of character who are ready to serve their country. ABOUT GEN. MARKS BRIG. GEN. MARKS' BIO Brigadier General Gavin P. Marks is the Commandant of Cadets, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado. He commands the 4,300-member Cadet Wing and more than 200 Air Force and civilian personnel. He guides military, leadership, character development, Basic Cadet Training and Expeditionary Skills Training for the Air Force Cadet Wing in addition to providing facilities and logistical support. Brig. Gen. Marks earned his commission from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1996 and his pilot wings from Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, in 1998. Brig. Gen. Marks has served as a T-1A instructor pilot (at both the undergraduate and graduate training levels) and flight examiner, an E-3B/C instructor pilot and flight examiner, an Air Force Intern, a staff officer on multiple joint staffs, and has commanded at the squadron and wing levels. Prior to his current assignment, he served as the Director, Electromagnetic Spectrum Superiority, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. Brig. Gen. Marks is a command pilot with more than 3,400 flying hours in the T-3, T-37, T-1A, E-3B/C/G, RC-135S/U/V, TC-135W, OC-135B, and WC-135C aircraft. - Copy credit: AF.MIL CONNECT WITH GEN. MARKS INSTAGRAM: @USAFACOMMANDANT ABOUT LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP Long Blue Leadership drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on Apple Podcasts, TuneIn + Alexa, Spotify and all your favorite podcast platforms. Search @AirForceGrads on your favorite social channels for Long Blue Leadership news and updates! FULL TRANSCRIPT OUR SPEAKERS Guest: Brig. Gen. Gavin P. Marks '96 | Host: Naviere Walkewicz '99 Naviere Walkewicz 00:01 My guest today is Brig. Gen. Gavin P. Marks, USAFA Class of '96, and currently serving as the commandant of the Air Force Academy. This is his third command position since becoming a member of the Air Force. Gen. Marks was drawn to service as a young man in Atlanta, Georgia, and joined the Junior ROTC program in high school before coming to the Academy in 1992. After he graduated, he became a pilot and flew for 26 years, in addition to continuing his personal and professional development. In 2000, Gen. Marks graduated with distinction from Squadron Officer School at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama. In 2015, he again graduated with distinction from the National War College at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. He has held command positions at the squadron and wing levels. His attachment to the Academy has remained strong, so much so that 20 years ago, he committed to returning and had been working his way back to USAFA when he was called to service, assuming his role as commandant in 2023. Gen. Marks, it is a pleasure. Welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Thank you for being here. Brig. Gen. Marks 01:03 Thank you very much. It is an honor for me to be here. It really is. Naviere Walkewicz 01:07 This is an exciting time for us, because especially for me, being a Class of 1999 — “Gold will shine” — I had to get that in there. We go back to Arnold Hall in Basic Cadet Training, when you were the commandant of cadets during Basic Cadet Training for us. So I remember you vividly as your taps from your shoes hit the floor in Arnold Hall. So this is truly a pleasure, sir, thank you. Brig. Gen. Marks 01:29 It is absolutely surreal to be back, and especially during this period that we're in right now during Basic Cadet Training, and as I interact with basic cadets and the cadre, it's hard not to reminisce about that time. It's hard not to share stories as well. I'm careful that I don't inundate the cadets with my stories of when I was the Basic Cadet Training commander. But it's just it's absolutely wonderful to be back here. Yeah, really is. Naviere Walkewicz 01:53 Well, we'll get to hear some of those, I think, you know, from your perspective, back then, and also, more recently, as we weave through this podcast. But really excited. And where we like to start is when we go back to young Gavin Marks. So Gen. Marks, tell us about what you were like as a child. Brig. Gen. Marks 02:08 My mother would tell you that I was precocious, that I was inquisitive. I was very, very talkative as well. So I have an older brother, and we are the sons of two parents that have been married for 55 years, and that's important, because 55 years is a long time, and it taught me the value of being committed. It also taught me the value of what love really looks like, up close and personal as well. I'm from Atlanta, Georgia, as you mentioned, so I'm a product of the South. I am a product of public schools, Baptist churches and Southern upbringing. So, I love sweet tea. I love this disgusting candy called Sugar Babies. And just about anything that you think of with regard to the South, you could probably say that that's pretty accurate as it relates to me and my personality as well. I call everyone ma'am and sir, regardless of rank, just based on my upbringing as well. I really would tell you that I got a calling to serve in the military by virtue of JROTC. I followed my brother into JROTC. We went to different high schools, and he enjoyed it, but it just wasn't his calling. I got involved in it and knew immediately that it was something that I wanted to do. I love shining my shoes. I love shining the brass belt buckle that I had on my trousers. I love marching. I love drill. I did Color Guard. I did Drill Team. It was wonderful for me. It was, I think, the thing that was missing in my life in terms of knowing what my niche was going to be. And so, my professor at that time in that particular JROTC program, I think he saw something in me, and he was the first one to actually bring up a military service academy. Prior to that point, I hadn't heard of anything about West Point or Annapolis or the Air Force Academy at all. And so, I took a trip with my father and we went out to all three and I can't swim, and so Annapolis was pretty difficult for me to wrap my mind around. West Point was too gray. You know, this is a 17-year-old at the time, or a 16-year-old at the time thinking these things. It's like, “Wow, this was really gray and dreary.” No offense to West Point. And then I got to the Air Force Academy, and I remember stepping off the plane and again, coming from Atlanta, Georgia, to see the snow-capped mountains, to immediately be able to feel the difference in the air, I knew that this was the place that I wanted to be. And so, I told my dad right then, as we stepped off the plane, I said, “This is it.” And he said, “What do you know about this place? You haven't even gone here yet.” But I knew, and the rest, as they say, is history. Naviere Walkewicz 04:48 Wow. So, neither your parents served and your brother was the first kind of introduction to Junior ROTC. What was that like growing up without having that, in Atlanta, not having that military, I guess, presence around you, and you said that's what you learned was missing. But what kind of got you to that point? Brig. Gen. Marks 05:08 So, I would say, just to be clear, so dad did not have a career in the military, but my father and my uncle both were drafted in Vietnam, and so to that extent, what I would say is, while there wasn't discussions or a lot of military impact in my household, I think, more than anything else, just through watching television, et cetera, there was something about the discipline. There was something about the professionalism. There was something about how revered those that are in service to their nation were in this country that really drew me to the profession of arms. It was just something about the fact that this is a career field. This is a profession that is extremely highly regarded across all facets of life, and I wanted to be a part of it. Naviere Walkewicz 06:03 So, as a young man in public school, did you find yourself drawn to things, like, I started to think about programs that were like discipline-based, like taekwondo or sports in that manner. Did you have some of those experiences as young man? Brig. Gen. Marks 06:16 I played — I ran track, following after my brother. My brother thrived in track and field. I followed him, and I absolutely loathed it. I was not athletically inclined, and try as I might, you know, I work out and I try to stay in good shape, but I would not call myself necessarily an athlete of the highest order by any stretch. And so that absolutely was an albatross around my neck coming to the Air Force Academy, especially during basic training, especially during Jacks Valley. Naviere Walkewicz 06:52 Well, let's talk about that a little bit. Was there a specific instance in Jacks Valley where — because I feel like now you might be able to run circles around some of us. Brig. Gen. Marks 07:01 Well, I will tell you — so, what I remember a lot about Jacks Valley, I remember the power-line runs. And back then we had the M1 Garand, 11, 12 pounds and we carried it everywhere. And it was heavy. You know, 12 pounds doesn't seem like it's heavy, but it's heavy when you're at port arms, and you're running for miles and miles on end, and the altitude, obviously, is vastly different. Jacks Valley is very dusty. You know, “Jacks Hack” is a thing. And so, all of those things, in aggregate, really caused me a lot of trouble. And so, what I remember is thinking often “I'm not going to make this. This is not going to happen for me,” in terms of graduating out of basic training, because I am falling behind in my runs, et cetera, et cetera. But I made it. I made it. Naviere Walkewicz 07:56 I love that. And I think for some of our listeners, the key thing, even just in that one was, you know, you didn't give up. You recognized you just had to keep working at it, and you got through it. And you're now serving as a commandant of cadets. So, I feel like there's definitely a story here that talks about you and your grit and your perseverance and everything throughout these years. Brig. Gen. Marks 08:15 The thing that I took from the Air Force Academy experience probably more than anything else — and there are several things that I took from it — is that this is a an incredibly difficult journey that is made better if you think about it from the perspective of just taking one step at a time every single day. Just show up, just show up, just be present, and that's 80% of it. If you just keep showing up, you are going to be OK. And so that was my mentality: They were going to have to kick me out. I was not going to self-eliminate at all. And so, no matter how slowly I ran back, then they were going to have to kick me out and I was going to keep showing up. The other thing is, I would say this: I had tremendous teammates. Our squad, well, in Jacks Valley, our flight, which became our squadron — we were so close, even back then. And if one of us was falling behind, “Come on, Gavin, let's go. Pick it up.” And that really helped a lot, because you didn't want to let your teammates down. Naviere Walkewicz 09:22 So, we got a little glimpse of Jacks. So I'm just gonna' dial it back just real quick, back to the point where you said to your dad, “This is it. This is where I'm going.” So, what was that journey like from Junior ROTC to getting into the Academy? Because I think a lot of people want to know what that looked like for you. Brig. Gen. Marks 09:38 So, I knew that from probably my junior year in high school that I wanted to go into the Air Force or to into the military. I didn't know which branch to be perfectly clear. So I applied to all three service academies. I applied to The Citadel and I applied to VMI and to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Those are all of the ones that I could think of at the time, and the visits helped a lot to crystallize in my mind what I wanted to do. But what really also helped was this fascination with flying. Originally, I wanted to be an astronaut, a dentist, a doctor, an actor, and so many different things when you're growing up, but the idea of flying was really at the forefront of my mind as well. I also knew I wanted to lead. And so, combining those two desires, it made sense to go to the Air Force Academy. And again, I couldn't swim. I tried as much as I possibly could to learn how to swim through the YMCA, et cetera. I'm a product of basic swimming at the Air Force Academy — twice. If I'm being completely candid with you and your listeners, if I could have swam at the time, it is likely that I would have gone to Annapolis, and it is likely that I would have been a Marine, because that is much more, at least in my thinking back then, in line with my personality. Because I am — I will just say the military pillar of the Air Force Academy was, as the young people would say, that's my jam, for sure. Naviere Walkewicz 11:15 I can see that. While I appreciate that, I can see that. We're so glad that we were able to get you here at the Air Force Academy. So, let's talk about your time at the Academy. You wanted to be an astronaut. You turn the dials toward pilot. Let's talk about what that experience looked like. Brig. Gen. Marks 11:30 So, the Academy was very, very challenging. What made it challenging primarily was the balance of so many requirements, and that's on purpose. It is rigorous on purpose because the profession of arms requires it, and the nation needs it, it deserves it. I wasn't prepared for it. High school — I wouldn't say high school came easy for me. I would say I did well in high school, and I did well in high school by virtue of cramming and by virtue of instincts. So, I came to the Air Force Academy not really knowing how to study. I didn't know how to prioritize tasks or manage tasks well at all. And the Academy humbled me tremendously. Naviere Walkewicz Can you share a story about that? Brig. Gen. Marks Oh, well, I would say this, and the dean, who I know has also been on the Long Blue Leadership podcast as well, she would cringe. So, I never got an F, I'm proud to say, but I certainly am on the team of Ds. I received a D in Aero, and, if I recall, Astro, civil engineering when we had that as a core as well. And that was an incredibly humbling experience for me, because prior to that point, I had never had anything in my career lower than a C in high school or anything like that. And so that kind of thing makes you think, “What am I doing wrong here?” And as you are engaged in that type of introspection, you're still having to get ready for the PFT, and you're still having to get ready for this chemistry test, and you're still having to shine your shoes and get ready for this knowledge test, et cetera, et cetera. And so it was just in my mind, based on my training to that point, not enough time in the day for the reflection that I needed in order to make some changes to my habit pattern. And you're just trying to survive, and you're just showing up every day, one step at a time. So that made it very difficult: the inability for me to study, to not know how to study, the prioritization of tasks. I loved the military piece, and I probably spent more time on that than I should have spent on other things. My roommates would often comment on the fact that I would be shining my shoes for hours, and I would bypass the need to study until the last minute, until the test came. And that didn't work out very well for me. The other thing I would tell you is this: I wouldn't say that I got homesick, but it was a long way from home. It really was, and so going home really helped to fill my cup back up in terms of just being able to reacclimate with my family and those that were around me — extended family, church, friends, et cetera. It was a long way from home. I developed a lot of great friends in my squadron. We were in the same squadron all four years, Way of Life committee, gospel choir at the time as well. And then this team of friends that I had on the Cadet Honor Guard as well. What an interesting year that was on the Cadet Honor Guard. But we became incredibly close, and they're still close to this day. Naviere Walkewicz 14:47 So, I'd like to talk more about the Honor Guard, but before we get there, I think it's important for people to understand that when you find yourself in those tough situations in life and in experiences, how did you pull yourself out of that? You know, you obviously got through. So, something had to change. How did you maneuver that? Brig. Gen. Marks 15:06 So, I will start by saying this: I talked to my parents a lot, and their support was incredibly helpful for me. They approached it from a different perspective. You know, I learned a lot of great things from both of my parents: hard work, my father's work ethic, my mother and unconditional love and what that truly means. And so, when I'm talking to my parents about the rigors of the Academy experience, my mom would say, “You know, baby you can just quit and come on home and go to Georgia Tech. It's right around the corner, and we'd love to have you, and you don't need this.” And my dad would say, “You better not quit. If you come home, it's for Christmas and you're going back.” And reflecting on both of those comments, my mother was basically saying, “No matter what, we're gonna' love you.” My dad was saying, “No matter what, you can do this, I know you can do it.” And the amalgamation of those emotions and those messages really helped me a lot. It let me know that no matter what, I have support, but I also have the confidence of my parents as well, that leaning on friends is — the friend groups that I talked about as well was really important. And then to a large extent, I would say this: The ability to dig deep inside and pull yourself up even when you are struggling, or even when you are faltering, to be able to show up the next day is really, really important, that grit, that resilience — the thing that we preach to our cadets about now we try to instill in them through the rigors of the Academy experience. It's really important. It's not only important at the Air Force Academy, it's important throughout life, because life obviously throws so many different curveballs your way, right? Naviere Walkewicz 17:11 I appreciate that you shared that leaning into your support network, not only for their love and their confidence in you, but also it sounds like there was a bit of asking for help and what that was, and so I think that's important for people to hear too. While you are having to pull yourself up, there's no shame in asking for help along the way. Brig. Gen. Marks 17:27 Not at all. And I would tell you, my mother has so many letters at home and letters that I don't even remember writing during my time at the Air Force Academy, where I was explaining to her different things that were going on that would bring a smile to my face now, because I would be shocked that I would have said these things to my mother or my father in terms of what was taking place and the help that I perhaps needed at the time. Naviere Walkewicz 17:53 That's great perspective. So, you mentioned Honor Guard, and what an incredible year. I was not part of Honor Guard, but I did appreciate how they helped us stay militarily ready. What was that journey like for you? Brig. Gen. Marks 18:08 Hard. It was very, very difficult. What I would say is this: So the Cadet Honor Guard attracted me because of the discipline that they had, that they have because of what they represented for the institution as well. These were the cadets that in every formation, carried our nation's flag. These were the cadets that were held up as the example of what a good uniform looked like and what military professionals should strive to look like and resemble and the precision with which they drilled was incredibly impressive to me. And so, when they had an opportunity to showcase what they were about to the fourth-class cadets at the time, so that we could show interest in different clubs, et cetera… Naviere Walkewicz 19:02 Because you had to try out for honor guard. Is that correct, sir? Brig. Gen. Marks 19:06 I'm trying to think if I would call it a try-out. Naviere Walkewicz That's probably not the right word. Brig. Gen. Marks I think it's probably one of the greatest examples that I can talk to about just showing up, which is to say, “Come one, come all, and there's going to be a lot of physical activity, a lot of running, a lot of drill work, et cetera, all meant to condition you and build your endurance for challenging times when you're in formation, and bad weather and things of that nature, because you know, when you're carrying the nation's flag, it's a no-fail mission, and you can't drop it. And it doesn't matter that it's 20 degrees and 50 knots of wind, you can't drop it.” And so how do I build that into you: the importance of what you're doing means to not only this institution, not only to the Cadet Wing, but to the nation as well? It was a grueling year. It was a hard year. And so I think we started probably with 70-ish fourth-class cadets, and our team ended up at the conclusion at about 16. And that was our team, and that was the team that we carried forth throughout the remainder of our time at the Air Force Academy. And again, I still stay in touch with them to this day. It was a fantastic group of people. Naviere Walkewicz 20:35 That's incredible. So aside from Honor Guard and some of the time that you spent as a cadet, let's talk about your leadership as a cadet, because you've had multiple positions of leadership. Brig. Gen. Marks 20:47 So, the two that resonate most with me right now, and that I gained a tremendous amount from — the summer leading into my two-degree year I was the Basic Cadet Training group training non-commissioned officer. That's a mouthful, and so the privilege of being able to, and I'm gonna' use air quotes, “greet” every new appointee as they arrived on the bus to the base of the ramp was given to me, and it was quite an honor. And so, I got to get on the bus and welcome every single basic cadet in the Class of 1998. I will never forget that. And then the next summer, I was the Basic Cadet Training commander, like you were talking about in your earlier comments, Naviere Walkewicz I definitely recall that. Brig. Gen. Marks I had a lot of fun, and beyond the fun that you have as cadre during Basic Cadet Training, I had a lot of fun in this regard. As the training NCO, seeing the progress, the development of the basic cadets from I-day, or from that first day of basic training, until the Acceptance Day Parade, if you will, or until we handed them off to the Jacks Valley cadre was something that I really appreciated, because it was very, very noticeable: the changes in drill, the changes in customs and courtesies, the changes in uniform wear, the changes in Mitchell Hall decorum, the changes in how they kept their rooms, et cetera. It was noticeable. And I really appreciated being able to see the fruit of the labor of the cadre. As the BCT commander in so much that you can learn executive-level leadership as a cadet, it taught me a lot about that. So this is the first time that I had an opportunity to conduct my own staff meetings, to build my own staff, to chart a vision, to set objectives, to hold accountable. It taught me a tremendous amount beyond the fun and the great memories of walking across the stage with my taps on during the Fourth of July at A-Hall, which I absolutely still remember to this day, I absolutely remember to this day. But both of those experiences are indelible for me at this point. And I talked to the BCT cadre about them now, because I want them to know that this time that they have is so precious, precious not only because of the memories that they're going to make, but precious because of the impact that they're going to have on these basic cadets. They will remember them forever. They will remember them forever. Naviere Walkewicz 23:30 Truth. So, I think one of the things that is so unique about that: You said, it was the first time you had the experience of conducting kind of your own operations, or what that looked like, the battle rhythm, the vision. I think a lot of our listeners, you know, they look at you, you're a general, you've been a leader. You know all this. What are some of the things you learned about yourself in that experience that maybe you would share just some lessons in leadership in the early parts of your leadership journey? Brig. Gen. Marks 23:55 So, I learned very early on, probably as a three degree, that standards really, really matter. It crystallized for me as a probably a three degree, and it just continued to resonate throughout the rest of my career that standards matter greatly in our profession, and perhaps across all walks of life. They matter because of the fact that if we allow someone to not be questioned about meeting standards, we will likely allow further deterioration down the road and erosion down the road, which could lead to catastrophic occurrences. And I've seen it in numerous instances, whether we're talking about accidents, aircraft accidents, whether we're talking about units that have toxic cultures. Because oftentimes it starts with the breadcrumbs that you can walk back to the erosion of standards. There's a line that I love in John Wick. I'm a big John Wick fan. The fourth movie, the bad guy, I don't remember his name, said that his father used to tell him, “How you do anything is how you do everything.” And that is so powerful to me. It is so incredibly powerful. “How you do anything is how you do everything.” I believe that. I truly, truly do. And I learned that for the really, for the first time, as a three degree. I would also tell you perception matters. And I learned that as a firstie as well. How you conduct yourself — as Patton would say, “You're always on parade.” It's important. And if your staff thinks that you are cutting corners here or showing favoritism there, whether that's true or not, it's their reality, and they are going to respond based on how they view their reality, how they view the world in that context. And so, I as a firstie through the experience of the BCT group commander, began to truly pay attention to what perceptions I was perhaps enabling. How about I put it that way? Those are two that come to mind in terms of lessons in leadership that I learned here at the Air Force Academy. When I talk about the idea of building a staff and running a staff meeting, they seem minor. Building the staff was important because it was at that time that I realized that while I may have some things that I'm pretty good at, there are a lot of things that I'm not, and I want to surround myself with people that are good in those areas that I'm not. And so I was very, very deliberate in who I surrounded myself with from a BCT group staff perspective. And then I would also say it's important to, especially when you walk into a group for the first time, to know what you're going to say, to have an agenda for how you want to run things. Because that first impression when you walk in as the leader, as the boss, as the commander, et cetera, it's gonna matter. It is absolutely gonna matter, and you will never have another opportunity to make a good first impression. And so, I could go on and on. I learned a lot from my experiences here in leadership at the Air Force Academy. Naviere Walkewicz Those are excellent examples. Brig. Gen. Marks That's why I wanted to come back. While I understood what standards meant and the importance of them as a three degree, I didn't fully put together the impact that the Academy had on me until I was a captain. Leaving here, probably like you and others, I drove away as fast as I could. Naviere Walkewicz The rear-view mirror… Brig. Gen. Marks Absolutely, and I told myself that I would never be back here. Naviere Walkewicz Really? Brig. Gen. Marks I really did at that time, because enough time hadn't passed to allow me to reconcile all of the wonderful things that had taken place in my development during that four-year period. And it wasn't until I was a captain that I realized that who I was as a function of the Air Force was in large part due to the development that I had received at the Air Force Academy. I credit my parents as well, for sure, but the Air Force Academy, for sure, had a lot to do with that, and I wanted to give that back to other cadets. Naviere Walkewicz 29:03 Was that in a moment of reflection that you realized that, or was that — did something happen where you were like, “Wow, that's something that I kind of took from the Academy.”? How did you come to that realization? Brig. Gen. Marks 29:15 I was having — a lot of positive things occurred to me in my career. At that point, I was having a lot of successes, and at some point, I thought about the fact that while certainly I am truly blessed, and certainly there is some luck that plays into that as well, I at some point, through introspection, just kind of look back on the journey that I had gone through from being the knucklehead kid from Atlanta, Georgia, to being this captain in the Air Force, and the metamorphosis that occurred and how that happened. And, so I can only attribute it — some of that, again, is the development over time, when your parents are teaching you things and instilling values and virtue into you, and at the time, when you're a know-it-all teenager, you don't think that it's sinking in, but it does, and it shapes you over time. So, some of it's that, but some of it was the Academy itself. I will tell you this: So, there was a program that I participated in as a junior, I guess, in high school, where I got to come to the Academy for an overnight visit. And I stayed with a cadet, and what I remember about that is this: So I think I stayed two nights. But the first night I went to a pay phone to call a friend, and there was a $20 bill at the top of the pay phone. And so, I went back to the room to tell the cadet, “Hey, somebody left some money there,” and he said, “Don't worry about it. Whoever left it, they'll remember that they left it there, and they'll come back and get it.” And I was bewildered. I was like, I don't understand how that's possible. OK, so the next night, I went to the same pay phone, and it was still there. And I was blown away, and I never forgot that, that this is a place where honor really, really matters. And certainly my parents have integrity, and certainly they, you know, preached and instilled those types of values, but here at the United States Air Force Academy, it was practiced every single day, and it was visibly discernible to me throughout all facets of the Academy experience that undergirding these, you know, push-ups that I was doing and this chemistry test that I was taking, et cetera, was this honor code and these core values that all of us together share. And I just absolutely love that. Reflecting on that over the course of seven years changed my life, truly, for the better. Naviere Walkewicz 32:15 Thank you for sharing that story. And I actually got chill bumps just thinking about, well, I mean, but you're, right now, you can't think about a lot of places where you can leave something and it's probably still going to be there, or if it was identifiable, it would probably been returned. So, I think that is something we can be so proud of. So, you mentioned, sir, some of your successes. They were kind of, you know, happening outside of the Academy once you'd graduated. Let's talk about what your career looked like and what those successes were. Brig. Gen. Marks 32:50 So, I was a casual lieutenant. And I guess the claim to fame that I have is that I was Gen. Lorenz's casual lieutenant. So Gen. Lorenz was the commandant immediately after I graduated, went on to become a four-star general, and he is still incredibly active here in the Academy community, and being his casual lieutenant, specifically, his special projects officer, was enlightening in a lot of different ways. Gen. Lorenz is a great leader. He's a unique leader as well. And I learned a lot from being in his space, being in his presence, and seeing how he conducted business. Interestingly enough, when you walk up to the office spaces of the Cadet Wing where my office is, in the hallway is a display of all the previous commandants and their biographies. That was one of my projects as a lieutenant, believe it or not, a long, long, long, long time ago. And so, it gave me an opportunity to be able to research all of the previous commandants to that point and see the commonalities between them as well. So I did that for a little less than a year, and then I went to pilot training. Pilot training was hard. Pilot training was very, very hard. In fact, I came back, if I recall correctly, either in the middle of pilot training or just as I was graduating to talk to the Cadet Wing, the Class of 1998 — one of the classes, '98 or '99 — invited me back to talk at M5. Naviere Walkewicz I'd like to say it was us. Brig. Gen. Marks I would like to say it was you all too. Naviere Walkewicz Can I claim it? Brig. Gen. Marks And you all gave me the bird, and it was wonderful, and I still have that bird in my office to this day. And I talked about how hard pilot training was, but maybe you'll remember this. I listed the top five hardest things that I've ever done in my life to that point, and I can't remember — I remember No. 1, but I can't remember the exact order, but it was something along the lines of the four-degree year, the entire cadet experience, pilot training, SERE at the time, and my four-degree Honor Guard experience was No. 1 for sure. But all of that to say, just being able to come back to the Academy was a tremendous honor, especially for this silly second, actually, I was a first lieutenant at the time. So went to pilot training and then was selected to be able to stay at pilot training and be an instructor. I went from Columbus to Vance Air Force Base and did that for three years in the T-1, which I absolutely loved. The T-1, that aircraft was probably, if I had the resources, if I was well healed, I would buy myself a T-1 and if I could afford the maintenance. I absolutely love flying that plane and enjoyed my time in AETC. And really, there's nothing special about me. When you enjoy what you're doing and feel like you have a passion for it, oftentimes you're going to do well. I think that's that holds true for just about anybody. I did pretty well in the T-1. After that, I went to an internship at the Pentagon, and so I was there on 9/11 and I got my master's in D.C., left there. After that, I went to Tinker Air Force Base. I did not want to go fly AWACS, and I love AWACS now, but I did not at the time. And I remember when I drove up to the gate for the first time after my year in D.C., and the Security Forces airmen that saw me at the gate asked me, “Are you OK?” just based on the, luckily, based on the look on my face after driving cross country. But what was special about Tinker is that that is where I truly learned, as I would call it, meat-and-potatoes flying, stick-and-rudder flying, no kidding, no thrills and frills. In the AWACS aircraft, you've got to know how to move that jet where you need it to move. You've got to know how to compensate for the aerodynamics of the roto-dome when you're refueling, you've got to know how to fly. And I so it was very enjoyable in that regard, and just being operational was enjoyable. Tinker, though, what I will always credit Tinker for is this: Tinker is where I met my wife. Naviere Walkewicz 37:15 So I was gonna' ask when the magic happened. Brig. Gen. Marks 37:19 Yeah, it happened at Tinker. We met through a mutual friend and so, interestingly enough, I always say that the two best decisions I ever made in my entire life, I show on my left and my right hand: my wedding ring on my left, my class ring on my right. Best decisions I've ever made for myself. My wife is retired Air Force 23 years, and she was a first lieutenant, I was a captain. We met through a mutual friend and became friends, and over time, over a period of about a year and a half, we started dating. I asked her to marry me after another year and a half or so, probably a little longer than I should have waited. So, I arrived in 2002, we were married in 2005. Naviere Walkewicz 37:59 Was her uniform better than yours, sir. Brig. Gen. Marks 38:05 Oh, goodness, no. So my wife, she will listen to this. My wife would tell you that she has had a wonderful 23-year Air Force journey. Started off with 13 years enlisted time and went to OTS, et cetera. My wife would tell you that I am, I think the term is, I am very “ate up” in terms of the military. Hopefully your listeners know what that means. Naviere Walkewicz 38:32 Yes. Brig. Gen. Marks She was not, at all. Not at all. That was not her personality. Naviere Walkewicz They say opposites attract. Brig. Gen. Marks 38:35 But I think really, more than anything, what I loved about her, beyond her candor and her honesty, was her compassion as well, her intellect, her ability to be able to see the world in a different way than I saw it — for us to respect each other's opinions about different things, for her difference of a net of opinion, but how she viewed the Air Force and her journey through the Air Force differently than I viewed mine. But we respected each other's nonetheless. And my wife is the reason why I'm still serving and I say that because of this, if my wife was not still in love with this Air Force journey, I would have stopped. I absolutely would have, because being married — and our family is, I hate to say it, is more important to me, truly it is. And so, I would have absolutely stopped. But she loves it. I loathe PCSing. Can't stand it. I'm in a great career field, but my wife loves it, loves the excitement, loves thinking about what's next. And so as long as she's enjoying it, I'm enjoying it too. Yeah, she's my best friend, my best friend for sure. So, we met after that, got married. Fast forward, I left Tinker and went to a Staff assignment in Suffolk, Virginia, stayed there for about three years, went back to the T-1 as a director of operations, a commander in the 99th of Tuskegee Airmen heritage. Then I went to National War College, went to Staff, went back to Tinker, 10 years as the vice wing commander, Offut as the wing commander, back to Staff again, and then here as the commandant. Naviere Walkewicz 40:32 So, when did the idea trickle back to the mind of, “I want to get back to the Academy?” How did that come into play? Was that just a natural progression of your career? Or how? How does one navigate that? Brig. Gen. Marks 40:43 So, it was at the time this realization that it had changed me so much and so positively. How can I be a part of another person's just incredible admiration for the experience and appreciation for the experience that they had while they were here? And so, I started investigating becoming an AOC, because at the time, that was where my status in life was in terms of rank, and was the most appropriate, if you will. It just didn't work out for me in terms of the timing. Naviere Walkewicz 41:24 So, you'd already been looking throughout your career to come back. Brig. Gen. Marks 41:27 At different points in my career, so about the seven-year point is when I said, “No, I would really like to go back and give back.” And now it's a function of trying to maneuver the timing and all of the other facets that make up an assignment and career progression to try to see how that could work. As an Air Force intern, that counted as my in-residence intermediate developmental education. And so, because of that, I was fast-tracked to staff immediately. And so, timing just didn't work in terms of that intermediate level, getting back to the Academy and making a difference. And so, the next opportunity for me was as a lieutenant colonel, because at that time, our group commanders were group AOCs and they were lieutenant colonels, the opportunity didn't present itself and command of a flying squadron did, and so I absolutely jumped on that with both feet. The idea kind of was off in the back portions of my brain after graduating from command and it didn't come back into the forefront until I got back to the Pentagon because I view the Pentagon as most people do. You know, it's a necessary evil. There is tremendous virtuous work that takes place at the Pentagon. It really is. And I certainly don't mean to poo-poo it. Staff work is important. It's necessary. I wanted to get back into, no kidding, base, desperately. And it had been 27 years-ish to that point. I'd come back for coronavirus. I was working for Gen. Brown and for Secretary Kim. I came back for corona and that was one of the first times that I had been back. And I knew I had to get back here. And interestingly enough, I brought my check to Doolittle Hall. I wanted to be a life member, and I had my $800 check in my pocket. My wife gave me permission, and I was like, “I'm ready.” And I'll never forget this. I don't remember who I talked to, but she said, “Hey, if you wait just a few more months, it'll be free for everybody.” Naviere Walkewicz Membership for all graduates! Brig. Gen. Marks I was like, “Sweet!” And then she happened to look at my ring, and she's like, “You got a chip on your ring. Why don't you hand that over to us? Your buying this ring came with a lifetime warranty.” And I was like, “This is unbelievable. This is like, divine intervention. I gotta get back to this place. I love it.” Yeah, I'm so happy to be back here. Naviere Walkewicz 44:18 That is wonderful. So maybe before we go into arriving back here, kind of some of the surge of what that experience was like — what were some of the leadership nuggets, or the leaders that you worked either under with as peers, those you learned from that worked under you, that you kind of continued to evolve yourself as a leader. What were some of those that shaped you? Brig. Gen. Marks 44:39 So, I think I will start with my time at Tinker as a flight commander. I think one of the things that I learned then was the importance of being credible in an operational flying squadron. Yeah. Your worth is, especially in a flying squadron, especially as a CGO, your worth is in how well you fly, speaking for pilots in that career field. And so, when you fast forward that to now, what I tell junior officers is this, “As a CGO, your No. 1 objective, your sole objective, is to be a master of your craft. Nothing else really matters. Being a master at your craft is the recipe for success, and if you are not able to do that, it is going to be difficult for you.” So, I learned that at Tinker Air Force Base, I would say, fast forwarding a little bit further to some of my Staff assignments, I would imagine, one of the reasons why I have never been incredibly fond of Staff is because I have — there has never been a good fit for me in terms of the staff assignments that I've been in. I could argue maybe the last one was perhaps, but where I'm going is this: It taught me the need to be able to be adaptable to learn as you go, to be open to learning, and to be humble enough to ask a lot of questions. And I think that that's a tremendous leadership trait to have, to humble yourself to your team, to come in and say, “I don't know everything. I don't know all that you all are doing.” Your stories even, “Please help me to understand. Please teach me.” So Staff, for all of the pains at times, really has developed me to have a better appreciation for that. I would tell you in command, “Oh, my goodness, command is all I ever want to do,” which is both naive and probably a very elementary way of thinking about things I just love command, and command has taught me so much. Naviere Walkewicz 47:16 What do you love about command? Brig. Gen. Marks 47:20 So, command is special because there isn't really, not really. There isn't period another position in the military where you are statutorily and regulatorily responsible for mission and people, nothing else. There is no other position in the Department of Defense military like command and to — especially at the unit level, the squadron level — to have such an immediate impact on mission like you are able to, as a squadron commander, and have such a positive impact, direct impact on airmen's lives. It is so incredibly fulfilling. And as you progress and command at higher levels, the direct impact on individuals lives lessens, but the direct impact on mission grows exponentially. I absolutely, not only that, but as you command at higher levels. While the impact, and I probably should have said it this way, the impact that you would have on so many individual airmen's lives' lessons, the impact that you can have on an individual airman's life magnifies based on rank. It is significant also. And I always — one of the things that I tell people all the time is the… it's an oversimplification, but the only reason to have rank is to do good, is to do good things, to make things happen in a positive way that affect positively mission and benefit airmen's lives. That's it. That's all. And if it if rank becomes something different than that for you, you are in the wrong business, or we've given it to the wrong person, if I'm being honest with you. Naviere Walkewicz 49:11 Thank you for sharing that. So how did you find out that you — how did it work to become the commandant of cadets? Is that something that you're selected for? How did you find out? Brig. Gen. Marks 49:23 So, I — well for your listeners, there's a dream sheet, if you will. We have a module that we go into and identify things, jobs, positions, perhaps even locations that we think that our skill-set matches up nicely for or that match our family circumstances, and in that module, I talked about the fact that I wanted to be able to give back to the Air Force Academy in this way. And talked about the fact that for 20 years or so, give or take, I have been trying to get back here to be able to have an impact. And I listed some of the things that I felt enabled me to have that type of impact. And then I got a call from the colonel's group or the general officer's group. I can't remember which one, probably general officer's group, that said, “Hey, the superintendent would like to interview you.” And I said, “OK, very good. I look forward to talking to a superintendent.” And what I will tell you is this: It is very difficult to prepare for an interview like that. Number one, you know, in the short amount of time that you're given to prepare for it. And then two, you just really don't know what you're going to be asked. And my knowledge of the Academy was very, very dated, you know, for 27 years ago when I graduated. But I said, “OK, let's go. Let's do it.” And so, I talked to him on the way home from the Pentagon in my car driving home, and we had a really nice conversation. And I remember parking in our driveway, and I remember staying in the driveway for about 15 more minutes as the conversation concluded, and I remember going into the house, and I remember talking to my wife, and I said, “You know, there are probably a number of people that interviewed, and they are, I'm positive, incredibly well suited for the position. There's always somebody better.” That's another great lesson that the Academy taught me, is there's always somebody better. But I said, “I think I feel like that went well. I don't know that I could have given any more to that interview.” Eventually, the superintendent made a decision. The superintendent had to vet that decision through higher levels as well. And eventually you come out on a list and it is announced that this is your next job. Naviere Walkewicz That's how you found out? You saw the list? Brig. Gen. Marks So admittedly, you know, birdies are talking to me ahead of time. But at the same time, you are just as a professional, more than anything else that is, that's meant to be private information for just and your family to kind of get your mind wrapped around those types of things. Because, as we've seen over the course of numerous years now, sometimes these lists come out later, and if you were to find out solely by that, that's not a lot of time to house hunt. That's not a lot of time to arrange schools. That's not a lot of time to arrange PCSing, you know, those types of things. So, and in this particular case, I needed to PCS from the Pentagon. I needed to perform a promotion ceremony. I needed to work a change of command ceremony here as well. And so, my wife and I joke, now this last move was the most difficult move we've ever, ever had, because I did all that in 30 days. Naviere Walkewicz 53:27 Wow, it was a lot, but this was probably one that you were both excited for, not just her. Brig. Gen. Marks 53:31 Oh, we were. The amount of YouTube videos that we watched in our household about basic training and about the Wings of Blue, just to get our kids excited about this, which is why, I mean — there is no excuse for not knowing what you're walking into at the Air Force Academy, because there are thousands of videos out there. Yeah, and so we were very excited, and the kids were incredibly well educated on what they could expect, everything from the wildlife that's on the installation, to the climate and the altitude, to what cadet life was going to be like. And so, we were really excited. And I remember — and because the kids had never been here at all, my wife and I had taken a trip here early in our marriage, our kids had never seen it and the excitement over the five days of driving was just really, really building up. And so, when we finally were able to see the big white box on the horizon, Naviere Walkewicz Yes, the chapel-in-the-box. Brig. Gen. Marks Yeah, when we were able to see that, and I was pointing to it as we were driving, they were just, they were just absolutely bubbling over with excitement. It was amazing. Naviere Walkewicz 54:34 How did you feel when you saw it? Brig. Gen. Marks 54:38 Very, very excited. A little overwhelmed. Also, I would tell you, I was really — I was both naive and I was also incredibly humbled and respectful of what I was walking into. Naive in this regard: I felt like, my goodness, I don't know that I've ever been more prepared for a position that I'm walking into than being the commandant of cadets at the Air Force Academy. Because I graduated from here. I surely have to be well prepared and well suited. You know nothing about the inner workings of the Air Force Academy as a cadet. Nothing, nothing. And so, there was so much to learn about governance, not only that — I will tell you this: I had some troubles academically. I never had any run-ins from an honor perspective. I never had any discipline issues, either. And I don't say that to sound self-congratulatory. I say that to show my ignorance, because there were significant gaps in my knowledge and my understanding of how to manage the Cadet Wing, because I had never had any experience with honor, I'd never had any experience with discipline, and so I had to dive into those when I got here and learn that where somebody else might not have had to do that. Very respectful of what I was — the Academy is an incredibly special place. It is also, I don't say this, I don't mean this pejoratively, it is also a lightning rod for attention. There is always attention being drawn to the Air Force Academy and coming into the institution knowing that, it certainly had my attention up front, and I realized also that the opportunity to shape 4,000 cadets and to be able to be the one with a great, amazing team responsible for their military development, their character and leadership development, to ensure that on graduation they had achieved everything that they needed to do in terms of commissioning education to be responsible for their honor education, to be the one that is ultimately overseeing cadet life, it's an awesome, awesome responsibility, and I had a tremendous amount of respect for it when I came into the institution. So overwhelmed in that regard. Naviere Walkewicz 57:22 I almost could feel through your eyes what you just expressed in coming back and seeing the Academy again and I think this is a wonderful time, because some of us have had the opportunity, whether it's been recent reunions, to hear you speak at reunion briefings, to catch a glimpse of you know, some of the changes or some of the things that you've brought back. Maybe this is an opportunity to share what's Academy life like now, but through the eyes of the commandant. What would you like to share with our listeners? Brig. Gen. Marks 57:49 So, I would tell you and your listeners that the life of a cadet has changed and is going to change even more. So, I would start much more strategic and talk about this geo-strategically. Being in an era of great power competition, we recognize that because of who our competitor is, because of the advances that they have made, et cetera, it is incredibly important. It's critical for us to rethink how we do just about anything. Rethink how we train, how we develop, how we organize, how we employ force, how we sustain that employment of force, everything. At the Air Force Academy we're in a developmental business and so it's important for us to step back and ask ourselves, with no indictment on the past and the cadets and the lieutenants, rather that we have created and that we have graduated, but right now today, are we doing everything that we can to ensure that the lieutenants that we graduate are ready to lead on Day 1 and win ultimately, should deterrence fail in great power competition? In that deep dive, we have to explore some of the training techniques that we employ here and whether they are applicable on the outside and the force the greater force, or whether they are potentially creating a hazard of negative transfer, we have to ask ourselves whether some of the traditions that we enjoy, or that we have enjoyed here at the United States Air Force Academy, are appropriate for this day and age, send the wrong message, or are potentially harmful in terms of our culture and our climate. Deep diving into all those things, one of the things that I've come to the realization about is this: What I want to be able to do is ensure that a cadet that has graduated — and I know that I won't be here for four years, but assuming that I was — meeting a cadet on I-Day and walking with them through four years, I want to make sure that they feel like they got their money's worth from a military development perspective or military training perspective. And here's what I mean by that: Anecdotally, as I talked to cadets, hundreds of cadets, and talked about their journey at the Air Force Academy, one of the things that I found is that the institution and the curriculum challenged them as a four degree. I think that is universal. But I would also say, and I would imagine, that many of your listeners who are grads would agree that once you were out of your four-degree year, the institution allowed for it to be, if this was your desire, very easy for you to coast militarily, or, dare I say, potentially hide militarily. And I didn't want that. I wanted essentially the same level of rigor that is placed on you academically and the same level of rigor that is placed on you physically and athletically to be placed on you militarily. Said another way, the same sweaty palms that you get in anticipation of your GR are the same sweaty palms that you get in anticipation of your PFT. I want you to have an anticipation of your inspection, or an anticipation of your formation, or an anticipation of your knowledge test, et cetera, throughout your four years. And so, we have evolved our thinking and more importantly, our focus to developing across all four years with the same level of diligence and the same level of rigor that we placed in our fourth-class development. And so the moniker, or the catch phrase, the bumper sticker that we use is that we have transition from a focus on the fourth-class system, to a four-class system, where you can expect, as a rising three degree, or as a rising two degree, to be taught what we need you to do in terms of your military development, expectations and responsibilities, let loose to go practice those things, those supervisory skills, et cetera; assessed on those things, taught warfighting skills as well, that will prepare you for great power competition, et cetera, et cetera. And I can go into a lot more detail, but suffice it to say, this is a significant shift in how we've been operating, and it's a shift for the better, because this is what our nation needs. This is putting us in a better position to be ready on Day 1 to lead and to win on Day 1. So, I'm really excited about it. Naviere Walkewicz That is exciting. Brig. Gen. Marks We're also bringing some rigor back into expectations about what it means to be a member of the Cadet Wing. So, in other words, we are increasing the number of formations. We are increasing the number of inspections. We are putting our money where our mouth is with respect to the fact that we say and rightly so, that we value character. We are now adding that too as a function of how we assess from a military performance average perspective, how we assess character, because it's so important, it's so critical. There are a lot of changes that are happening for the better, and these changes are going to affect not only the readiness of our cadets, but it's going to affect the culture of our Wing as well in a positive way. It's just going to take some time. Naviere Walkewicz 1:04:00 That's outstanding. Do you see that trickling up as well into some of the officers that are involved in this, with you, and shaping the cadets — so the AOCs, also your AMTs, and how they're doing that? Is that part of this as well? Brig. Gen. Marks 1:04:13 It is, and I'll be honest with you, I don't want to be short-sighted or to minimize the impact that the entire institution is going to have. Believe it or not, the touch points that our faculty have, our coaches and staff have, they are abundant, and we would be doing ourselves and our cadets a disservice if all of us in lockstep were — not attacking the problem, but weren't in this together in terms of this development and this approach that we're taking. And so we are. We absolutely are. The dean and I are classmates. We have a tremendous and positive relationship, same with the athletic director and the executive director of Athletics as well. And together we have coffee on a regular basis, and we share ideas and talk about our approaches so that we can together positively impact our cadets. So yes, it is an all-of-USAFA approach and an all-in approach. Naviere Walkewicz 1:05:22 Absolutely love that. Well, I have two questions. I want to give them to you so you have a chance to think about. The first one being, you know, as a commandant, what keeps you up at night? I think that's something on the minds of our listeners. But then also, would you share maybe, what's something that you're so proud of that's happened since you've been here kind of under your leadership, and maybe something that you're not so proud of? And you can answer those however you'd like. Brig. Gen. Marks 1:05:48 What keeps me up at night is the resilience of cadets. And let me explain that just a little bit. In no way is that an indictment of a generational thing; this generation of cadets is less. Not at all. It's me talking about human behavior and saying that our program is difficult, it's challenging, and individuals respond in different ways to that, and what keeps me up is an individual feeling like there is no way out. That bothers me a lot. It really, realy, really concerns me a tremendous amount. And so I spend a lot of time talking to our command teams about this and about the need for us to administratively ensure that we are being as efficient as possible when we adjudicate certain matters, because what we don't want to do is leave someone dangling in terms of decision making for months and months on end, because that exacerbates that problem and my concern. In terms of what I am most proud of — so, the jury is still out, but here's what I'll say: I'm very proud of a lot of things. I'm proud of the team we've assembled. I'm proud of the work that is being done at the Staff level. I'm proud of the work that our commanders and our AMTs are doing. Our commanders, our AOCs. I am also very proud of the partnership that we have across the installation. That partnership has enabled us to make a significant change to what is called the schedule of calls, the construct that defines how cadets, day to day, spend their time, essentially. We have made a significant change to it that enables us to provide a more professionalized delivery of commissioning education. It has allowed for us to provide some white space in cadets lives, significant white space. It has allowed for us to build in time for unit fitness. Unit fitness being the operative phrase there, because the unit is so important and developing that cohesion is so important. It ha
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