Podcasts about mission podcast

You've got a great premise, compelling characters… but something's off. Your story feels stuck, and you can't figure out why. Chances are, your story beats aren't pulling their weight.

Are your characters saying all the right things—but somehow it still feels off?Contrived dialogue is one of the fastest ways to pull your reader or viewer out of the story. Whether you're a novelist or a screenwriter, when your dialogue feels stiff, forced, or unnatural, it kills immersion and weakens emotional impact.The worst part? You might not even realize you're doing it.In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked causes of fake-sounding dialogue—and more importantly, how to fix it. You'll learn a mindset shift and key storytelling tools that will instantly elevate your scenes and bring your characters to life.

What if business wasn't a fallback option—but the exact calling God placed on your life?In this episode of the Business as Mission Podcast, Mike Baer interviews Dr. Sean Dwyer, a former CPA turned professor and researcher at the University of Oklahoma. Sean shares his incredible journey—from walking away from medicine, launching a clothing line, and joining YWAM, to now equipping Gen Z entrepreneurs with purpose-driven vision.They explore the tension many believers feel between "real ministry" and the marketplace—and how Sean's story helped him (and now his students) discover that business is not a second-class calling. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone questioning their vocational purpose, struggling with secular vs. sacred work, or longing to make a lasting impact.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (https://buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

Ever feel like your story should be working — but something's just... off? Chances are, your characters are missing the one thing that drives truly compelling fiction: a clear, active goal.In this episode, we dig into why so many screenplays and novels lose steam, how to spot the silent killer of narrative momentum, and what your character really needs to stop drifting and start doing. Whether you're knee-deep in draft land or just sketching your first outline, this is the clarity boost your story structure's been waiting for.

Head Coach John Galloway talks the beginning of the ASUN Conference tournament.

Special Guest Chris Perzinski joins the podcast to talk Bellarmine game, Defense and upcoming matchup with Mercer.

Head Coach John Galloway talks Utah game and upcoming Bellarmine matchup.

Click to listen – your characters (and audience) will thank you.Have you ever created a character that felt… flat? No matter how detailed the backstory or how polished the prose, something just doesn't click — and worse, your audience doesn't care. That's the pain point. And we've all been there.In this episode, we dig into why your characters might be missing that vital spark — and how to fix it. Whether you're writing a novel, screenplay, or short film, you'll uncover:✅ The essential trait all compelling characters share (hint: it's not just likability)✅ How paradox, sympathy, and intrigue shape unforgettable protagonists✅ Why suffering might just be the secret weapon of great storytelling✅ Real-world examples and feedback that bring these concepts to lifeJoin us as we workshop character ideas live, break down why some characters captivate us instantly, and reveal the storytelling truths that most writers learn the hard way.

Alex Samwell is a Tanzanian business founder with an amazing history, an amazing company, and an amazing vision. One of the things that stands out about Alex is his compassion and heart for people and the way he uses real business to accomplish great things. His soap manufacturing and sales company meets a real need for the people who live in his country. It may seem obvious but it's not just about being clean; there are severe skin problems that many of the women and children in his area face; his product addresses those while, at the same time, creating jobs for his neighbors. Enjoy his story and learn why he named his children, Angel, Blessing, and Praise. IBEC Ventures Executive Director, Bob Bush, joins us as co-host on this episode of the Business as Mission Podcast.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (www.buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).To learn more about Business as Mission, visit Third Path at https://thirdpathinitiative.com where you will find many free and premium resources available to you. You can also learn more on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@BAMwithMikeBaer.

Assistant Athletic Director of Lacrosse Operations Danielle Della Rocca talks behind the scenes of the program in season.

Join Danielle Hutchinson in "Authors on Mission Podcast" as she sits down with Nicholas Bradford, founder of the National Center for Restorative Justice and co-author of "A Rural World Guide to Restorative Justice in Schools." Nicholas shares the five foundational principles of restorative justice, practical applications beyond educational settings, and details about his upcoming conference in Portland. Learn how restorative practices can transform conflict into opportunities for growth, strengthen relationships, and develop agency in both students and adults. Whether you're an educator, parent, or professional seeking healthier ways to address conflict, this episode offers valuable insights to implement restorative approaches in your community.Tips Featured in This Episode:Apply the 5 principles of restorative justice in any setting with multiple relationshipsBalance care and connection while effectively addressing problemsFor aspiring authors: Gain hands-on experience before writing about your topicRefine your message through speaking and training opportunitiesConsider collaboration if writing is challenging#RestorativeJustice #SchoolsTransformation #ConflictResolution #EducationReform #AuthorsOnMission

Head Coach John Galloway talks Air Force win and upcoming game against Queens.

Ever wondered if your character is truly a hero or just a morally questionable anti-hero? The lines are blurrier than you think, and it's time to get clear on the difference.In this episode, we'll dive deep into the world of heroes and anti-heroes, breaking down their key differences and exploring the moral complexities that make them tick. Is your character's flaw pushing them toward redemption—or just leading them further down the wrong path? We'll also tackle why the world needs more true heroes, and how understanding these distinctions can elevate your writing.But here's the twist: not all anti-heroes are created equal. Some may challenge our views of morality, but others just reflect the chaos of our modern world. Want to know which category your characters fall into? You'll have to watch to find out.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Head Coach John Galloway talks the bye week and the upcoming conference opener against Air Force.

Are you struggling to differentiate the inciting incident from your character's "normal world" in your story? Many writers confuse the two, leading to confusion in their plot structure and weak storytelling.In this episode, we break down the difference between your character's everyday actions and the pivotal moment that launches them into the adventure—the inciting incident. Using popular movies like Armageddon, Star Wars, and Jaws, we'll show you how to identify the real turning point that transforms your protagonist's journey. Learn how to pinpoint the exact moment that propels your character into action, making your story unforgettable.This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Head Coach John Galloway talks upcoming game against North Carolina and victory over High Point.

Two special guests join to talk offensive and defensive philosophies and upcoming game against High Point.

God is enlisting and mobilizing believers all over the Spanish speaking world and especially in Latin America. BAM LATAM (BAM Latin America) is a network committed to encouraging, connecting, equipping, and supporting Kingdom minded entrepreneurs and business people. The goal, like all of the Global BAM movement is to see Jesus made known among the nations, disciples made, churches planted, society transformed, the environment impacted…through business. Our guest on this episode is Scott Ross. Scott and his family live and work in Lima, Peru where he serves as the Executive Director of Five and Two Global Initiatives, www.5and2global.org and the Regional Catalyst for BAM Global in Latin America, https://bamlatam.org. His journey is interesting and his manner is encouraging. Listen to his story on this episode of the Business as Mission Podcast.If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please follow us so you won't miss any episodes and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify link below, on Patreon (www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (www.buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).To learn more about Business as Mission, visit Third Path at https://thirdpathinitiative.com where you will find many free and premium resources available to you. You can also learn more on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@BAMwithMikeBaer. Mike's seminal book, Business as Mission is available in Spanish from YWAM Publishing at https://www.ywampublishing.com/search.aspx?searchterm=business+as+mission and his important message to pastors, The Pastor and the Business Person, is also available in Spanish on Amazon.

Feeling like you have to land on the perfect idea can often freeze you in your tracks. What do you do when it seems like every idea isn't good enough? How do you keep moving forward when the pressure to create the perfect story is overwhelming?You've probably heard other writers talk about their characters “speaking” to them, but what happens when that doesn't happen for you? Is something wrong, or are you missing an essential piece of the writing puzzle?Join us in this episode as we explore these common struggles and share insights on how to navigate through them. You'll want to tune in to hear how to keep your writing moving forward, even when the pressure is high and your characters are quiet.This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Head Coach John Galloway talks two-game road trip to play St. John's and Iona.

Head Coach John Galloway talks comeback victory over Marist and Hampton preview.

Writers often feel overwhelmed by the endless possibilities when developing their plot and characters, leading to “paralysis by analysis.” The fear of making the wrong choices can stall progress and derail a story's direction.Learn how to break through that overwhelm and stay focused with key insights on organizing your story structure, making sure every choice serves the larger narrative. This episode has been pulled from one of the live coaching sessions that you'll have exclusive access to by purchasing any one of the online writing courses offered by The Storyteller's Mission. Check them out! Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Jacksonville Men's Lacrosse Head Coach John Galloway talks upcoming Marist game, recaps Duke game and more!

Coach John Galloway talks season opener, his return to Syracuse and recaps the final scrimmages against UAH and Tampa.

The Mission Podcast Episode 2 by Mission Ebenezer Family Church

The Mission Podcast Episode1 by Mission Ebenezer Family Church

Are you struggling to create memorable characters that drive your story? Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, mastering character development is crucial to engaging your audience. In this episode, Zena dives into the fundamentals of character creation, exploring why every writer—no matter their experience—should revisit the basics. Tune in for practical insights that will take your storytelling to the next level!Key Takeaways:-Why every character needs a personal crucible to drive their story.-How to differentiate between characterization and true character.-The importance of consistent, paradoxical characters to hook your audience.Revisit the basics, and watch your characters—and your writing—transform!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Head Coach John Galloway talks Rutgers Scrimmage ahead of another against UAH and Tampa.

Head Coach John Galloway talks Rutgers scrimmage, the adventures of a new season, team building and more.

There's a direct and powerful correlation between people seeking to start and grow a BAM company, on the one hand, and those who have qualified coaches to help them along the way. BAM is not an individual sport. It's not a game for loners. BAM oriented and motivated founders need someone to walk with them in the path. These are the principles of IBEC Ventures as explained by Executive Director, Bob Bush. In this episode, Bob talks about who is ready for a coach, who is qualified to pitch to investors, who is likely to succeed in Kingdom Business, whether a national or an expatriate. And he should know. Bob has been working in the world of BAM coaching for nearly 20 years and has seen dozens of potential and actual founders at various milestones along the way.Today, IBEC is expanding—looking for new coaches to add to their team and for teams of nationals to provide coaching in their home countries. The first IBEC Center of Excellence opened last year in Brazil and is blazing a new path to multiply BAM coaching and, consequently, BAM impact around the world. For more information, go to www.ibecventures.com. Or contact Bob directly via email at Robert.bush@ibecventures.com. So much opportunity. So much need. Do you need a coach? Could you be a coach?The Business as Mission Podcast is produced by Third Path Initiative. Visit https://thirdpathinitiative.com to learn more. If you've enjoyed the Business as Mission podcast, please subscribe and give us a rating wherever you listen. We'd also ask you to consider underwriting the costs of the podcast by supporting us at the Spotify Creator link below, on Patreon (www.patreon.com/thebusinessasmissionpodcast), or Buy Me a Coffee (www.buymeacoffee.com/businessasmissionpodcast).

We talk offseason, program culture and preparation for the upcoming 2025 season with Jacksonville men's lacrosse head coach John Galloway.

As writers, we often face the pressure to please our audience, avoid controversy, and "play it safe." But is this the most effective way to create meaningful, impactful stories? Many writers struggle with balancing moral responsibility and creative freedom, worried that their work might offend or alienate readers or viewers.In this episode, we dive deep into the ethics of storytelling and why sometimes offending the audience can be the most ethical act a writer can do. Drawing on insights from Jeffrey Sweet's work on playwriting, we explore the importance of depicting morally complex characters and scenarios, and how this can push audiences to examine their own worldviews. You'll learn how to embrace the responsibility of shaping the moral conversation through your work, without falling into the trap of censorship or moral complacency. By the end, you'll feel empowered to write stories that challenge, provoke, and ultimately enlighten.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

In this episode of The D2D Podcast, Sam Taggart sits down with Erik Rock, a visionary entrepreneur and high-performance coach who transformed his life from hitting rock bottom to building multiple thriving businesses. Erik shares his inspiring journey, starting with a small furniture consignment store and growing it into the largest chain in the country, while later expanding into real estate, mentoring, and coaching high achievers.This conversation dives deep into the concepts of resilience, purpose, and personal transformation. Erik talks about overcoming shame and guilt from his early life, using those experiences as fuel to excel in entrepreneurship. He also explains the importance of investing in people, scaling businesses, and the need to step outside day-to-day operations to identify and seize bigger opportunities.New or struggling D2D sales reps will find actionable insights on cultivating a "fire of desire," staying present in the moment, and focusing on customer service as a cornerstone of success. Erik's story of transformation will leave you motivated to turn your struggles into strengths and achieve uncommon success.You'll find answers to key questions such as:How can you cultivate the "fire of desire" to achieve your greatest potential?What strategies can help D2D sales reps connect better with their customers?How do you scale a business while maintaining its core values and culture?What role does vulnerability play in building trust and authentic leadership?How can you leverage personal struggles to fuel your entrepreneurial success?Get in touch with Erik Rock:Podcast: Man on a Mission Podcast - https://itserikrock.comInstagram: @realerikrock - https://www.instagram.com/realerikrock/Website: https://itserikrock.comThank you for listening! Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The D2D Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You may also watch this podcast on YouTube!You may also follow Sam Taggart on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more nuggets on D2D and Sales Tips.

Nicholas (Niko) Gallo's journey to faith and later to BAM encourages us to believe that God is truly in charge of the details of our life, our path, and our business. From nearly being kidnapped in Colombia, to narrowly escaping deportation in the US, to receiving an innovative business idea from God, Niko tells the story of God's grace to him and leaves us wanting to hear more! Listen and be encouraged. Nico is always ready to share what God gave him in business (and life) and can be reached at Ng@sulugar.co. If you enjoyed the episode, rate us wherever you listen, subscribe, and share with your network. If you'd like to support the Business as Mission Podcast, you can do so at the Spotify link in the show notes or on Patreon at You can support us as a subscriber on Patreon at patreon.com/TheBusinessasMissionPodcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mike-baer/support

As writers, we often struggle with creating characters that feel real, dynamic, and compelling. Many of us get stuck focusing on plot, not realizing that without a well-crafted character, even the most thrilling story can fall flat. Readers or audiences won't connect to a character who doesn't feel authentic or multidimensional.In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe breaks down the essential qualities that make a character irresistible to your audience. You'll learn why character is more important than plot, how to create paradoxical and complex characters, and how to craft a main character who drives your story with depth and authenticity. By understanding the true nature of character and characterization, you'll gain practical tools for creating characters that your audience will care about—no matter how complex or flawed they may be.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Host Mike Baer shares a very short year end update from the Business as Mission Podcast and a wish for all to have a Merry Christmas. Help us have a breakthrough 2025 by joining our team. You can support us as a subscriber on Patreon at patreon.com/TheBusinessasMissionPodcast or, if you listen on Spotify, you can give via the Spotify link below. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mike-baer/support

Many writers struggle with creating characters who feel both complex and authentic. One common issue is misidentifying a character's fatal flaw, confusing it with a simple moral deficiency or surface-level trait. This misunderstanding can lead to flat, unrelatable characters who fail to resonate with audiences.In this episode, we break down the crucial difference between a fatal flaw and a wound—and why understanding this distinction is key to crafting compelling character arcs. By learning how these two elements connect, you'll discover how to make your characters' flaws a driving force in their personal growth and the overall plot. Whether you're writing a hero, anti-hero, or flawed protagonist, this insight will elevate your character development and strengthen your story's emotional core.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a retrospective review of year two of the Behind the Mission Podcast, with the shows grouped by categories and snippets of sample shows representing the different categories.  Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. Links Mentioned in this Episode BTM82 - Aimee Johnson - Suicide Prevention for the Military Affiliated PopulationBTM92 - Katie Ross and Katie Stenger - Summit Behavioral HealthBTM66 - Josh Protas - Food Insecurity in the Military Affiliated PopulationBTM68 - Paul Fukuma - TAJI 100BTM55 - Dr. Roxana Delgado - Supporting Military and Veteran CaregiversBTM70 - Jenna Pryor - Custom PsychArmor Training for OrganizationsBTM99 - Crystal Ellington - DEI and Sexual Assault Prevention for VeteransBTM51 - Betty Rhoades - HillVets and Veteran Representation on Capitol HillBTM83 - Brian Jenkins - Armed Services Arts PartnershipPsychArmor Resource of the WeekFor this week's PsychArmor resource of the week is the Behind the Mission Podcast. It's available on all of the podcast distribution platforms, but you can also find this and every episode on the PsychArmor website. If you're curious about a topic related to service members, veterans, and their families, chances are we have a guest talking about it over the past two hundred episodes…and if you don't find what you're looking for, let us know, and we will find a guest to meet the need.  You can find the resource here:  https://psycharmor.org/podcast Episode Partner: Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

As writers, it's easy to get stuck in the rut of creating characters who don't feel like they're evolving. If your characters seem to stay the same throughout your story, or their growth feels forced, you're not alone. Many writers struggle with making their character arcs feel authentic and compelling. By the end of this episode, you'll have practical strategies to use rituals and deviations to reveal deeper layers of your characters, enhance their arcs, and keep your audience engaged—without ever having to "tell" them what's going on. Tune in to learn how to transform your character-driven story!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Struggling to make your scenes feel dynamic and purposeful? Are you finding it difficult to set the right tone, weave in your theme, or transition smoothly between key plot points?In this episode, we dive into the craft of building powerful, unforgettable scenes that do more than just move the plot forward. Whether you're a writer or a screenwriter, mastering the art of scene construction can transform your entire story.Learn practical strategies to maximize the dramatic potential of every scene. We'll cover how to set tone, establish theme, and create seamless transitions that keep your audience hooked. By the end, you'll have a toolkit for writing scenes that not only work but resonate, propelling your story to the next level.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Mike is joined by Mike Turner, Director of Coffee (yes, that's his real title) at Serve Hope International. His work is a beautiful combination of providing water purification technology to Central Americans, selling coffee in a “Direct Trade” strategy that benefits customers and growers, and disciple making through the relationships that are formed. It's a great story and a great product (I just ordered some). Mike Turner can be contacted and you can learn more at https://www.servehope.international, www.buycoffeegivewater.com, and mturner@servehope.international. If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a rating wherever you listen, subscribe, and help spread the word about the Business as Mission Podcast. You can support this broadcast financially at the Spotify link below. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mike-baer/support

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Marine Corps Veteran Dr. Derek Abbey, President and CEO of Project Recover, the nation's leading citizen-led non-profit organization to search, locate, document, recover, and repatriate the over 81,500 American service members missing in action. Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestDerek Abbey, Ph.D. is Project Recover's President and CEO. He served for 23 years in the United States Marine Corps. His academic research and his post-military career have focused on connecting veterans with college opportunities, He began as Project Recover team member in 2004 and spent five years on the Board of Directors before being appointed as President / CEO.Derek Abbey grew up in Seattle. He was the only child of a single mom doing the best she could to raise a “rambunctious boy.”  Her unexpected death when Derek was 13 turned his life upside-down. For four years, he lived primarily with his aunt and uncle. Finally, at 17, Derek ran away to the Marine Corps. Derek Abbey had been without a rudder and sail for most of his life. In the USMC, he found a structure and system he could succeed in.First, he enlisted in the Marine Corps as a communicator. After his initial enlistment, the Marine Corps selected him for a commissioning program and sent him to Oregon State University to earn a degree. Upon receiving his degree he was commissioned as a ground officer. Finally, Derek was selected for an aviation contract while completing the six months long Basic School.This combination of events, going into the military and then to college, set the stage for Derek's academic and professional accomplishments. It also is the seed that gave rise to a passion for connecting veterans with educational opportunities. It is also, of course, the precursor which led up to his current role with Project Recover.Derek Abbey attended flight school in Pensacola FL and graduated as a Naval Flight Officer. He was then sent to the F/A-18 Hornet Fleet Replacement Squadron at MCAS Miramar where he earned his designation as an F/A-18 Weapons Systems Officer. He was then immediately assigned to his first squadron, VMFA(AW)-121, and deployed for Operation Southern Watch and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Over the next few years, he deployed two more times to Iraq and once to the Far East. He holds more combat hours in the Hornet than hours in peaceful skies. After an extended and successful tour in the Hornet, Derek left flight operations to become a Plank Owner (original member) at Marine Corps Special Operations Command as the Air Officer for the 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, now 1st Raider Battalion. During this period with the Marine Raiders, he served in Marine Special Operations Company Delta and was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as their Forward Air Controller, Special Operations JTAC, and Executive Officer.In 2009, Derek was selected by the Marine Corps for the Advanced Degree Program and assigned to the University of San Diego. “In 2009-2011, there was a huge influx of military into higher education. Universities were figuring out how to work with these populations.” While earning a Masters in Higher Education Leadership, Derek conducted research on how universities and colleges work with military-connected students on their campuses. His thesis provided best practices for colleges to use in creating successful military programs on their campuses. In his twilight tour from 2011-2014, Derek served as the Director of the Marine Corps' Train the Trainer School in Camp Lejeune, NC. His organization was responsible for the training and education of instructors, curriculum developers, staff and leadership of 93 training units across the Marine Corps. Derek retired from the USMC as a Major in 2014. Shortly thereafter, he began his doctorate in Leadership Studies at the University of San Diego. Derek focused again on conducting practical research that would help make higher education more accessible to veterans, the majority of whom would be first-generation college students. His research has garnered national attention and resulted in multiple speaking engagements. Derek earned his Ph.D. in 2019.Upon retiring from the Marine Corps, Derek began working at San Diego State University as a Military Liaison Officer in the Joan and Art Barron Veterans Center. In this position, he focused on outreach to the military-connected students in the region in order to provide guidance for them attaining their higher education goals.In 2015, he took over the Military and Veterans Program at The University of San Diego.  During his time with USD, he created and implemented programming that resulted in the growth of the military-connected population by 30% and the program being recognized as one at the top in the nation. Derek was the advocate for this population not only at USD but on other campuses in the region through the Military Ally program and with organizations across the nation attempting to provide better educational guidance for the military population.  In 2017, Derek took over West Coast Operations for the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) as the Senior Director of the West and Northwest Regions. TMF is a veterans service organization that works to unite the American community through programming that emphasizes the value of strong character. In this role, he oversaw the strategy development, program implementation and expansion, budget execution, and evaluation in TMF's largest geographical region. Links Mentioned in this Episode Project Recover Web SitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekFor this week's PsychArmor resource of the week is an episode of the Behind the Mission Podcast, episode 153 with Christina Slentz and the League of Wives Memorial Project. This project honors the story of a group of military spouses who supported their husbands held captive as POWs in the Vietnam war with the establishment of a memorial in Coronado, California.  You can find the resource here:  https://psycharmor.org/podcast/christina-slentz Episode Partner: Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmor

Are you unsure how to build obstacles that challenge your characters on multiple levels and drive the story forward? In this episode, Zena Dell Lowe breaks down the three key types of obstacles every character can face. Learn how to craft each obstacle to challenge your characters in unique ways, forcing them to grow, make difficult choices, and push the story to its emotional peak.Watch now to discover these obstacles to create compelling, active characters and elevate your storytelling!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Struggling to make your stories stick with readers or audiences?You're not alone! Many writers get caught up in creating intricate plots and thrilling twists, but the truth is—it's the relationships between your characters that keep people coming back. If your stories feel flat or forgettable, it could be because you're missing the emotional core that great relationships bring.In this episode, we dive deep into why relationships are the true heart of every memorable story. You'll learn how to shift your focus from just plot points to the powerful connections between your characters—because those are the moments that truly captivate and resonate.Tune in to discover 4 actionable takeaways you can apply today to create more impactful, emotionally charged stories that your audience won't be able to forget. Whether you're working on a novel, screenplay, or TV show, these tips will transform the way you approach storytelling—and elevate your characters to new heights!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Struggling with your story's logline? You're not alone! Writers often avoid creating loglines because they think they're too hard or too limiting. But what if I told you there's a simple, 4-step formula that makes writing your logline easy—and it'll keep your entire story on track?In this episode, we break down exactly how to write a logline that's clear, concise, and captures the heart of your story. You'll learn why a solid logline is more than just a pitch—it's a powerful tool that helps you stay focused as you write.Want to finally crack the logline code and stop stressing over that one sentence? Tune in now and get ready to write a logline that excites you—and your readers!Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Many Christian narratives shy away from the complexities of real life, resulting in stories that feel disingenuous or trivial. This avoidance not only limits the impact of these stories but also leaves important human experiences unexplored.In this episode, we'll focus on two essential rules for tackling hard topics in Christian writing. Join us as we empower Christian writers to craft narratives that confront hard truths while honoring their audience, leading to deeper, more impactful storytelling.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

Today we're talking to Tosca Fasso. Tosca is a former Fortune 100 executive who worked her way up the corporate ladder from administrative assistant to Wall Street executive. When she got her first management role at age 25, Tosca knew that creating a vision with a team, coaching them to succeed, and building a culture where team members actually liked and respected each other was her life's work. Unfortunately, as she advanced in her career, she realized that she wasn't always able to do what was right for her team and that corporate policies are often hostile to employees. So, Tosca left her Wall Street position to launch Manager on a Mission, a management movement based on trust and empowerment instead of fear and intimidation. She now coaches people-focused leaders who know there's a better way to manage teams but need just a little support to build the systems that are both good for people as well as profits. She is also the author of Not Safe For Work: A good manager's guide to better feeling work in a toxic culture. Tosca hosts the Manager on a Mission podcast and is also a volunteer career mentor, competitive karaoke champion, and intermediate adult figure skater. She lives in the Los Angeles area with her woodworker husband, two rescue Chihuahuas, and three parrots. Links: Manager on a Mission Podcast on Spotify and Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/management-detox/id1732081015 LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/comm/mynetwork/discovery-see-all?usecase=PEOPLE_FOLLOWS&followMember=toscamarie Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itstoscafasso https://www.toscafasso.com TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@itstoscafasso Say hi to me on IG www.instagram.com/careerintechnicolor If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone you know and leave a review! Sending love, Baiba

What if the stories we tell about faith could be as complex and gritty as real life? It's time to break free from the confines of family-friendly narratives. Many Christian writers feel pressured to produce only wholesome, safe content, fearing backlash or judgment. This limits the depth and authenticity of their storytelling. Join the conversation! Come away with a better understanding of the importance of tackling mature themes and the misconception that R-rated content is inherently negative. Get encouragement to embrace authentic storytelling that reflects the truth of human experience, rather than sanitizing it.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Send us a textSupport the show

World building isn't just background noise—it's essential to storytelling. Let's see how two masters, Pierce Brown and Jim Butcher, weave it into every scene. Today, we break down how Red Rising and The Dresden Files build immersive, unforgettable universes.Seven Deadly Plot Points FREE TRAINING VIDEO!The Storyteller's Mission Podcast is now on YouTube. You can watch your favorite podcast as well as listen. Subscribe to our channel and never miss a new episode or announcement.Support the Show on Paypal@Missionranchfilms!Send us a textSupport the show