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What if one of the most important proteins for healthy aging is also one of the most overlooked? Most people think collagen is simply a beauty supplement for smoother skin and fewer wrinkles. But collagen is actually the structural foundation of your entire body--skin, joints, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, bones, and connective tissues. The reality is that collagen production begins declining as early as your twenties, and that decline may contribute to many of the symptoms people mistakenly accept as "normal aging."In this episode, Dr. Thomas Hemingway dives into the science of collagen, what the latest research says about its benefits for skin, hair, nails, joints, cartilage, and bone health, and how to maximize its effectiveness with key nutrients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, and chondroitin. You'll learn practical strategies to support healthy collagen production, discover who benefits most from supplementation, and hear real-world examples of how collagen can be part of a comprehensive healthy aging and longevity plan. If your goal is to look better, move better, recover better, and stay active for decades to come, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Have a Listen and Share with a Friend:)**Free PDF: "How to Optimize your Metabolism in 7 Easy Steps." Inside the PDF, we pull back the curtain on how to actually get your metabolism Super-charger and running better than ever before.*And, in my new Performance, and Longevity medical practice we specialize in turning back your biological age and OPTIMIZING HORMONES so you can feel a decade or more younger so you can do the things you want to do that you thought were no longer possible due to your age. Join the waitlist here!*Don't wait to Prioritize your health, Start Today with the Simple and Powerful Steps detailed in my Best-selling book, PREVENTABLE.*ACCESS my FREE workshop, "GET 10 Years Younger, Stronger, and Sharper" How to turn back your biological age 10-20 years so you can do the things you want to do that you no longer thought possible due to your age. Perform at your best and live your best life!Join my Free Masterclass on Midlife Hormones, "Why You Don't Feel like Yourself anymore and What to Do about it!"JET LAG Survival Guide. Free PDF!*GET DIRECT ACCESS to DR. HEMINGWAY in these AMAZING COURSES!**Free Resource: "The 7 lab tests your doctor likely is not checking and could be the key to why you don't feel your best." *Don't Forget to SHARE with a Friend and please drop a Review:) It means the world!Mahalo and Aloha andTo your health,
Urgent does not always mean important. And reacting all day is not the same as leading. In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, Paul Alex breaks down the tyranny of the urgent and why strategic prioritization is required if you want your business to actually grow. Let's be real… If your whole day is spent answering messages… Fixing minor issues… Handling tiny emergencies… And reacting to everyone else's problems… You are not steering the ship. You are just putting out fires. In this episode, you'll learn: Why loud problems are rarely the most profitable problems How urgent tasks steal focus from strategic growth Why visionary hours must be protected at all costs How prioritizing big moves creates cleaner systems, stronger execution, and real scale The truth is simple: Busy does not mean productive. Fixing small issues can feel good. Answering every message can feel responsible. Solving tiny fires can feel like leadership. But if the lead generation system is broken… The team needs better operators… The sales process is weak… Or the company has no long-term strategy… Then the urgent tasks are distracting you from the important work. High-level leaders do not let other people's emergencies control their calendar. They block out the noise. They protect deep work. They focus on strategy first. They build systems that make the daily fires disappear. Because strategy always beats reactivity. Stop majoring in minor things. Protect your visionary hours. Prioritize the big moves. And keep leveling up. Your Network is your NETWORTH! Make sure to add me on all SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS: Instagram: https://jo.my/paulalex2024Facebook: https://jo.my/fbpaulalex2024YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGhDAD1JyGGzSQUPD9lc9HQLinkedIn: https://jo.my/inpaulalex2024 Looking for a secondary source of income or want to become an entrepreneur? Check out one of my companies below to see if we can help you: www.CashSwipe.com FREE Copy of my book “Blue to Digital Gold - The New American Dream”www.officialPaulAlex.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Deepti: The ability to rise after setbacks and turn challenges into opportunities.Billions of toothpaste tubes end up in landfills every year, creating an environmental burden that's hard to ignore. Recognizing this, Deepti Brambl, Founder of Kaylaan, developed an innovative alternative: toothpaste tablets. The eco-friendly product eliminates the need for plastic packaging while providing a healthier, more sustainable oral care solution.“Toothpaste tablets are not a new concept,” Deepti explained in today's episode, “but for me, it was important to come up with a solution that is not just plastic-friendly but also chemical-free. All of our products are natural, which ties back to how I was raised.”Kaylaan has also expanded into mouthwash tablets and patented bamboo electric toothbrushes, solidifying their commitment to green innovation. The toothbrushes, with recycled plastic handles to combat mold growth, are fully compostable striking the balance between sustainability and practicality.This eco-conscious ethos stems from Deepti's Nepalese heritage, where everything was reused. After moving to the U.S., she was struck by the plastic waste culture and wanted to create an alternative that redefined oral care. She started small, testing products on Etsy. Her toothpaste tablets stood out, quickly becoming a bestseller thanks to community feedback.The company's community-centered approach is evident in the evolution of their product line, including fluoride-based formulas, strawberry- and watermelon-flavored tablets for kids, and neem-based tablets. Customers' input continues to shape Kaylaan's innovations: “Whoever came to us with requests, we worked on it,” Deepti noted.In just a few years, Kaylaan has earned B Corp certification twice, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability. Revenue from crowdfunding has been instrumental in scaling operations. Deepti highlighted how funds from a $45,000 raise helped move the company into a new facility, upgrade machines, and achieve compliance with FDA and GMP protocols.Currently, Kaylaan is raising capital through regulated investment crowdfunding on Honeycomb Credit. This presents an exciting opportunity for sustainability-minded investors to support Deepti's vision of redefining oral care.Deepti's journey exemplifies the power of mission-driven innovation. By tackling environmental challenges head-on, Kaylaan is demonstrating how purpose and profitability can coexist in harmony.tl;dr:Kaylaan develops eco-friendly toothpaste tablets to reduce waste and promote sustainable dental care.Deepti Brambl draws inspiration from her Nepalese heritage to drive innovation at Kaylaan.Crowdfunding on Honeycomb Credit has empowered Kaylaan to scale operations and achieve regulatory compliance.Customer feedback has shaped Kaylaan's diverse products, including fluoride-based and neem-flavored options.Deepti's resilience and passion for sustainability have propelled Kaylaan's mission to new heights.How to Develop Resilience As a SuperpowerDeepti's superpower is resilience—the ability to rise after setbacks and turn challenges into opportunities. She explained, “You fall as many times as possible, because that's where real creativity, real strength, and real learning happen.” Her perseverance fuels Kaylaan, as Deepti embraces obstacles as steppingstones for growth, strength, and creativity.Deepti vividly recounted the 10-hour ordeal of relocating a 5,000-pound tablet-press machine to a new manufacturing facility. After renting a forklift that couldn't manage the task, she worked with a team of local professionals to resolve the situation. Despite setbacks, her persistence resulted in more efficient production and significant quality improvements for Kaylaan's products.Tips to Develop Resilience:View challenges as opportunities for creativity and growth.Accept failure as part of learning and keep moving forward.Build strong community and business relationships for support during tough circumstances.Prioritize preparation upfront to avoid costly mistakes later.Embrace the idea that obstacles are a pathway to innovation and strength.By following Deepti's example and advice, you can make resilience a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDeepti Brambl (she/her):Founder, KaylaanAbout Kaylaan: We make oral care better for people and the planet. Our toothpaste tablets eliminate plastic tube waste, reduce water consumption, and deliver clinically effective results — proof that a daily habit as simple as brushing your teeth can be part of a more sustainable world.Website: kaylaan.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/kaylaantoothpasteCompany Twitter Handle: @KaylaanTabsInstagram Handle: @kaylaantoothpasteOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Kaylaan-2Biographical Information: Deepti Brambl, originally from the Himalayas, is the founder and lead engineer behind Kaylaan, a B Corp‑certified sustainable oral care company based in New York. Deepti has been featured in publications like Happi Magazine, Long Island Press, CanvasRebel, and on the “Founders, Unfiltered” podcast. On the Happi Podcast, she discussed Kaylaan's innovative approach to oral care and eco-packaging, positioning the brand at the intersection of sustainability and consumer convenience.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/deeptibramblSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include Fureelz, High Desert Gear, and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.How to Score the Economic Health of Your Community: On Friday, June 26th at 9:00 AM Pacific Time, we'll share a recording of a brilliant webinar led by Michael Shuman, publisher of the Main Street Journal, hosted by Jen Risley of AMIBA. You can watch it when it plays on SuperCrowd.tv. Download and install the app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV device in advance!Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on July 14th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowdHour, July 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “How to Make a Splash With Your Campaign Launch.” Drawing on his extensive experience helping entrepreneurs and impact-driven founders succeed in investment crowdfunding, Devin will share proven strategies for creating momentum and attracting attention when launching a crowdfunding campaign. In this session, he'll explore how founders can prepare for a successful launch, build excitement before going live, engage their networks effectively, and generate the early traction that often determines long-term campaign success. Attendees will learn practical tactics for storytelling, outreach, media engagement, and community building, along with common mistakes that can limit visibility and investor interest. Whether you're preparing for your first crowdfunding raise or looking to improve the performance of a future campaign, this SuperCrowdHour will provide actionable insights to help you launch with confidence and maximize your campaign's impact from day one. Register now!SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Have you ever looked at a day full of real needs and thought, “How am I supposed to decide what comes first when all of it matters?” A child needs comfort. A medical form has a deadline. Dinner needs to be made. Lessons are unfinished. You are exhausted—and none of those needs are imaginary. But one mom cannot do every important thing at the same time. In this episode, I'm sharing a quote attributed to Elisabeth Elliot that has been pinned above my desk for about ten years. It became especially meaningful during a season when I was homeschooling, caring for children with additional needs, completing an intensive neurodevelopmental program, and staying up late to write reports that sometimes stretched beyond 60 pages. That quote helped me stop fighting the work that was truly mine to do. But it did not tell me that every important task belonged to me or that everything had to be finished that night. I also share three questions I use when the work feels endless: What really needs care today? What part of this is actually mine to carry? What can I actually do next? We'll talk about considering health, safety, deadlines, relationships, and your actual capacity. We'll also talk about accepting help, simplifying what can be simplified, and letting some work wait without believing that means you do not care. And I want to be clear: doing difficult work “gladly” does not mean enjoying suffering, hiding grief, refusing help, acting cheerful when you are hurting, or treating exhaustion as holiness. It means bringing the truth to God, asking Him for wisdom, and offering the work that is truly yours to Him. If you are overwhelmed by constant needs and unfinished work, this episode will help you slow down, ask God for wisdom, and identify the next faithful thing you can do with the time, strength, and help available. Scripture referenced: James 1:5, ESV If you are hearing this episode before July 4, 2026, I would be deeply grateful if you would pray for our family as we seek in-home care for my son. Please also pray for other caregiving families whose constant, complicated, and often unseen work may not be understood by the people around them. Mentioned in this episode: CTC Math — an online math program our family uses for flexible, self-paced learning. XOXO, Katie Road Trip Mysteries: USA Edition — a screen-free, story-driven activity adventure book for kids ages 8–12, filled with puzzles, clues, history, geography, and mystery.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGL7T6LH Movie Schooling — a resource for families who enjoy using movies as part of meaningful learning, discussion, and connection.https://www.amazon.com/Movie-Schooling-Curriculum-Style-Education-Organized-Activities/dp/B0FHZR72T1
Work, family, health, and personal goals can often compete for your attention. Learn how ADHD adults decide what matters most. The post How ADHD Adults Prioritize When Everything Feels Important appeared first on Marla Cummins.
For more thoughts, clips, and updates, follow Avetis Antaplyan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avetisantaplyanIn this solo episode of The Tech Leader's Playbook, Avetis Antaplyan explores one of the most overlooked yet critical leadership skills: decision-making. Drawing on insights from conversations with CEOs, CTOs, founders, professional athletes, Hall of Fame coaches, and executives from companies including Apple, Google, Amazon, National Geographic, and Radical Candor, Avetis breaks down what separates exceptional leaders from everyone else.He argues that leadership success is rarely about having perfect information, superior intelligence, or flawless strategy. Instead, the leaders who consistently create momentum are those who can make sound decisions despite uncertainty. Avetis shares practical frameworks used by high-performing leaders, including Amazon's "one-way door vs. two-way door" decision model, Jeff Bezos' regret minimization framework, and the importance of principle-based decision-making.The episode also examines how AI is changing the leadership landscape. While artificial intelligence can accelerate analysis and provide recommendations, Avetis explains why human judgment, accountability, and courage remain irreplaceable. Through real-world examples and actionable leadership lessons, he challenges listeners to identify the decisions they've been avoiding and take decisive action before delays become the real obstacle to progress.TakeawaysExceptional leaders distinguish themselves through decision-making, not intelligence alone.The greatest organizational threat is often indecision, not making the wrong decision.Most leadership decisions must be made with incomplete information.Leaders are paid for their ability to navigate uncertainty and create momentum.A mediocre decision made quickly often outperforms a perfect decision made too late.Amazon's "one-way door vs. two-way door" framework helps determine when to move fast and when to proceed carefully.Great leaders commit fully after making a decision rather than remaining trapped in doubt.Principle-based decision-making allows leaders to make consistent decisions faster.Technology leaders often make the mistake of optimizing for technical perfection instead of business outcomes.AI can provide information and recommendations, but accountability and judgment remain human responsibilities.When a decision is inevitable, delaying it often causes more damage than acting on it immediately.Chapters00:00 Why Decision-Making Separates Great Leaders01:12 The Myth of Intelligence and Leadership Success02:13 Why Indecision Damages Organizations03:25 Amazon's One-Way Door vs. Two-Way Door Framework04:38 Lessons from Hall of Fame Coach Dick Vermeil05:15 Radical Candor and the Courage to Act05:55 Technology Leaders and Business Outcomes06:30 Framework #1: Speed Over Perfection07:00 Framework #2: Regret Minimization08:00 Framework #3: Reversible vs. Irreversible Decisions08:55 Framework #4: Principle-Based Decision Making09:55 Why AI Makes Judgment More Valuable11:05 Creating Momentum Through Action11:40 The Decisions You're Avoiding Right Now12:10 When It's Inevitable, Make It Immediate12:45 Closing Thoughts and Final TakeawaysResources and Links:https://www.hireclout.comhttps://www.podcast.hireclout.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright
Caleb talks with branding expert John Dalton about how contractors can move beyond basic advertising and build a brand that actually connects. Dalton explains why strong branding starts with the customer's emotional experience, not just a list of services. He shares the importance of "Clarity plus Consistency," the value of vehicle wraps for tradespeople, and why simple, direct messaging beats clever marketing every time. Key Takeaways: Sell the emotional experience and the "feeling" your work provides rather than just the technical features of your service. Prioritize your vehicle wraps as your most valuable marketing asset by ensuring they are clear, clean, and legible from a distance. Adopt a "less is more" philosophy by removing at least one unnecessary element from every design to improve clarity and reduce cognitive overload. Ensure absolute consistency across your brand by using the exact same fonts and color tones for every customer-facing piece of media. Embrace humility by admitting when you lack expertise in areas like marketing and proactively seeking guidance from professionals to grow. Connect with Auman Landscape
Are you treating your health like it only affects you? Do you tell yourself you’ll deal with it later, once things slow down? What if neglecting your well-being is one of the most costly things you can do to the people you love? In this episode of A Really Good Cry, Radhi unpacks why taking care of your health isn’t a selfish act, it’s one of the most loving things you can do. From the science of co-regulation to the mind-body connection, this episode reframes self-care as a profound responsibility, not a luxury, and gives you a clear, practical framework to finally start prioritizing yourself without guilt. Rather than overwhelming you with an overhaul, Radhi explores how understanding your body, processing your emotions, and building five simple daily habits can transform not just your own energy, but the environment you create for everyone around you. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your health choices ripple outward to the people you love. How co-regulation means your nervous system affects everyone around you. The physical root causes behind feeling snappy, low energy, or anxious. How to start understanding your body through checkups and blood tests. Five daily pillars to build a baseline of holistic health. Your health is not a personal choice made in isolation. It is an act of love, a form of presence, and the foundation on which everything else is built. Follow Radhi: https://www.instagram.com/radhidevlukia/ https://www.instagram.com/areallygoodcry/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxWe9A4kMf9V_AHOXkGhCzQ https://www.facebook.com/radhidevlukia1/ https://www.tiktok.com/@radhidevlukiaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Prioritize Play: Express Your Creativity, Boost Your Confidence, and Foster Deeper Connection (Balance, 2026), host of the Chaotic Creatives podcast and play enthusiast Rachael Renae reveals that play is more important to our wellbeing than productivity or career titles and should be prioritized as readily as getting groceries, paying your rent, or getting your work done. When we connect to ourselves through play, we become more curious and intentional in how we express ourselves and connect with other people. Within these pages are: Mindset shifts to start seeing play in the everyday Guidance to help you find your version of play Strategies to turn play into a regular practice Exercises to release expectations on your creativity Lessons in becoming your own hype pal Through introspection and fun challenges, you'll see that play is the solution toward overcoming our creative blocks, caring less about what people think of us, and showing ourselves that we do deserve to prioritize our creative ideas. Even when they don't make money. Even if we're not “good” at them. Even if they're not a “traditional” creative outlet. Because we all deserve our version of our Big, Juicy Life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
What builds trust when you don't have a title or position of authority? SUMMARY According to Lt. Col. Joe Bledsoe '11, it's honesty, integrity, humility presence and action. Tune in as he shares practical leadership lessons learned from the Academy, combat aviation and years of mentoring others. SHARE THIS EPISODE FACEBOOK | LINKEDIN COL. BLEDSOE'S TOP 10 LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS 1. Leadership starts before the title. People follow your example, ideas, and presence long before you get formal authority. 2. Informal leadership is as real as formal leadership. Class president, wingman, or peer—your influence, credibility, and support role matter even without rank. 3. Be “clay to be molded.” Show eagerness, humility, and effort; people notice fresh attitude and willingness to embrace hard things. 4. You can't lead alone—build a trusted team. Time management and heavy responsibility force you to delegate to people you trust and empower them. 5. Trust has two layers: inherent and earned. Start with inherent trust (shared values, shared background) and deliberately grow earned trust through behavior. 6. Five traits that build credibility fast: Honesty, integrity, humility, presence (actually being there, engaged), and decisive action. 7. Debrief like a fighter pilot: brutally honest, never personal. Separate the person from the performance, do root‑cause analysis, fix errors, and then move on—no re‑litigating. 8. Own your mistakes out loud. Saying “I'm sorry,” “I was wrong,” or “I don't know, but I'll find out” accelerates trust and models humility. 9. Mentors and mentees are non‑negotiable. Continuously seek guidance from those ahead of you and invest in those behind you to sharpen your own thinking. 10. Prioritize relationships and pride in the mission. Treat family and friends well, cultivate the Long Blue Line, and remember you're on the A‑team—act like it. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 — Opening & Guest Intro Show open, Naviere introduces Lt Col Joe “Paveway” Bledsoe and his career highlights. 00:01:13 — Voluntold to Lead: Becoming Class President Basic cadet training, being “voluntold,” interview gauntlet, and getting elected class president. 00:04:09 — What a Class President Actually Does Informal vs formal leadership, picking the class exemplar (Robin Olds), dining‑ins, spirit missions, and accountability. 00:08:38 — From Future Doctor to Fighter Pilot Arriving at USAFA wanting to be a physician, loving biology and medicine, and the first seeds of doubt. 00:10:03 — Ops Air Force, Powered Flight, and the Pivot Deployed Ops Air Force in CENTCOM, exposure to flying in theater, powered flight, and choosing pilot training over med school. 00:12:22 — Mentors, Family, and Making a Hard Call Mentorship from family, upperclassmen, and permanent party; emotional weight of changing paths and family's reaction. 00:14:08 — Leading Without Rank: Credibility and Trust Informal leadership as a young wingman, lessons from time management and delegation as class president, inherent vs earned trust, and key traits (honesty, integrity, humility, presence, action). 00:22:06 — Fighter Pilot Debriefs & Radical Feedback Culture Brutally honest debriefs, owning mistakes, root‑cause analysis, safety and mission focus, and how that mindset translates beyond the cockpit. 00:27:48 — Leadership at Home: Marriage, Parenting, and ‘Knock It Off' High‑school‑sweetheart marriage, parenting, using accountability and humility with kids, and balancing “fighter pilot” mode with being a husband and dad. 00:30:30 — Future Conflict, Growth, and Pride in the Long Blue Line Risk and future fight, Institute for Future Conflict, exposure to other AFSCs and logistics, daily growth habits (mentors, mentees, reading, writing, running), advice to younger self, and closing message on being proud of USAFA and the A‑team. ABOUT COL. BLEDSOE BIO Lt. Col. Joseph “Paveway” Bledsoe '11 is a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate and recognized leader whose career has spanned combat operations, advanced airpower development and service to the Long Blue Line. A native of rural Pennsylvania, Bledsoe graduated from the Academy in 2011 with a degree in biology before earning a Master of Public Policy from the University of Maryland. He is Currently assigned to the Institute for Future Conflict at the U.S. Air Force Academy where he studies the future of airpower, emerging technologies and the challenges of great-power competition. Prior to joining the Institute, he helped lead training and operational planning efforts at the 366th Fighter Wing, contributing to major exercises and the wing's first deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. His work bridges the gap between today's operational realities and tomorrow's strategic challenges. A recipient of the Association & Foundation's Young Alumni Excellence Award, Bledsoe is widely respected for his emphasis on faith, family and service. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply connected to the Academy community through mentorship, alumni leadership and a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. On this episode of Long Blue Leadership, he shares lessons learned from leading peers, building influence before authority and navigating high-stakes decisions in both the cockpit and the profession of arms. CONNECT WITH JOE LINKEDIN CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LINE PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Ted Robertson | Producer and Editor: Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org Please note: we are only considering USAFA graduates as guests at this time. Ryan Hall | Director: Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor: Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer: Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org ALL PAST LBL EPISODES | ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE AT USAFA.ORG/LONGBLUELEADERSHIP AND ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS FULL TRANSCRIPT Guest, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Joe "Paveway" Bledsoe" '11 | Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99 Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz 0:01 Sometimes leadership begins long before you've ever been put in charge. It starts when people trust you enough to follow your example, your ideas or your vision. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99; Long Blue Leadership starts now. Well, Lt. Col. Joe “Paveway” Bledsoe the Third. Welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Lt. Col. Joe Bledsoe 0:20 Naviere, it's great to see you. Thank you for having me here today. I'm looking forward to the conversation. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:24 So, Joe, your career has been exciting so far, and you're still in it. You know, you have been operational leader, obviously an F-15E Strike Eagle pilot. You've been deployed, you have been a researcher, you're a Young Alumni Excellence Award winner for our Association & Foundation, you've been an AOG board director and a fellow for the Institute for Future Conflict. And that, that's just, you know, a short little list, because you're a student heading back into, over to, is it North Carolina, right? Seymour Johnson. Col. Joe Bledsoe 0:53 That's correct. Seymour Johnson, yep. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:54 In the cockpit, yeah. Col. Joe Bledsoe 0:56 Yeah, we're super excited. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 0:59 Yes. Well, we're going to touch on probably many of those places, but I want to dial it back to something that only one graduate in every class experiences, and for you it happened shortly after Basic Cadet Training. Your class selected you as your class president. How did that come about? Col. Joe Bledsoe 1:14 How did that all go down? That's a great question. So there we were, right after basic training. I was in Cadet Squadron 19 for my freshman year, and I got the opportunity — this is one of those voluntold moments, right — where the upperclassmen and BCT cadre said, “Joe,” or “Cadet Bledsoe, report to H-1 during transition week.” That's when everybody's coming back, and you're like, “Sure, yep, yes, sir, yes, ma'am. Here we go.” So I show up with 40, 50 other fourth-class cadets, and we come to find out it was for us, and we were going to go through who was going to be the class officers. So first off, as I look back on that experience, a lot of respect and no humility being asked to go like represent Squadron 19, right? Like, I didn't volunteer, they just kind of pointed me in that direction, so we show up and got to interview with the upperclassmen, class officers, and there's funny interview questions, real serious interview questions. You know, I was just honest, right? Like, I'm here. This is what I think about what being a leader looks like, and how I could help serve the class, not thinking I would ever be selected, right? And as the night is going on, and ACQ is right around the corner, they kind of whittle it down to four or five of us, and we get up in front of the rest of the cadets and classmates that were there, and it was an open forum, like you know, back in Rome times, like you're standing in the gauntlet, Yeah, like it was like Roman voting, right? And asked a bunch of questions, and I remember standing up there with, you know, preppies, prior enlisted, and then me, just like straight off the street, and there's a couple other of us up there, and just answer the questions honestly, and at the end of that, there was a vote, and you know, they read the results, and I was like, "Holy smokes, I'm class president. How did this, how did this happen,” right? And I think there's a lot that — it was daunting at first, right? And then also, like, “This is awesome, I don't know what I'm getting into,” right? I just found out about it. I remember walking back on the Tizo. This was the first time I can say this now, because you know, grad, and I didn't run the strips because the upperclassmen and class officers walked me back, and I distinctly remember to — back to my squadron to — Jordan Kraft and Forrest Underwood walked back and were given some mentorship to me, like here's how to succeed, here's things we would recommend, and it was just an awesome opportunity to like kind of learn what pure leadership looks like, what it means to be in this not org chart that is unique to the Academy, and that's where the, that's where the adventure started for class president. I'm still, I haven't been fired yet, and I still proudly serve the Class of 2011 — Robin Olds' class — as their class president, and it's one of the best jobs that I have the privilege of doing. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 4:10 My goodness. I mean, just to unpack that a little bit, obviously, in basic cadet training, you did enough to impress your cadre, I'm sure that there was probably some sort of cadre selection to bring however many of them forth first. Would you say that you would you agree with that, or is that — am I way off? Col. Joe Bledsoe 4:28 Yeah, I would say —I think when I look back my time at basic training, like I wanted to come to the Academy since I was in your school, right? So, like, I thrived — I'm not saying it was easy by any means, right? We all know that, but I thrived in like this new adventure, right? And I took everything, I embraced everything. I think that may have been something they saw, right? Like I was clay to be molded, right? And I had some prior opportunities in basic to show that to my BCT cadre, and they picked up on it. It wasn't that I was trying, but I think looking back on that experience, there was moments of like my freshness, my eagerness, my like pride in that I made it to basic training, that I wanted to just try as hard as I could, and I think some of that probably shown through, and ultimately may have been why I was selected to go try that interview process, right? Col. Naviere Walkewicz 5:20 So that interview process, at the end of the day, you were elected by your peers, and you know it — to your point — you said in that unusual, the not normal org chart, right, the one that doesn't exist, but yet you have leadership of your class. What did that look like? How did that translate? Because not many of us are class president, I'm certainly not my class president, and so I'm not sure what that leadership role looks like. Can you share a little bit more about some examples? Col. Joe Bledsoe 5:46 Yeah, I think that that leadership role was very different each year, right? As a freshman and a sophomore, as a four-degree and a three-degree, before any official academy leadership position starts to present themselves, that they do for two-degrees and firsties, it was a lot of helping the class stay as a collective whole, right? So one of the first big things as freshmen was selecting our class exemplar, right? And running like — how do, who do we select? How do we come together and figure that process out? How do we then, once we have a name, once we selected Robin Olds, how do we have a formal dining in? Things that I had never even heard of, right? As well as on the other side, the shenanigans, right? So, the spirit missions, right? There was many times I've had to go to the commandant's office and say, I don't know where the class crest is, like, out of pure honesty, right? But, like, that is, that was like a way, as an underclassman, that we kind of got that informal leadership, but also you're the leader by default here, so we're gonna, we're gonna make you accountable for your class. So I got to see both sides, that transitioning a little bit more to two-degree and first a year was now taking a little bit step back in writing in the informal leadership position, so I looked as myself as like a supporting agent, supporting member to our cadet leadership, and I always presented that like, “Hey, if you need our class to do something, I will do that, but if militarily you own that, like, I'm not ever going to step on your toes or push back,” right? The other thing we got, I was able to do is also help provide, like, morale inputs, right? Like you kind of had the pulse of morale, I think, more as the class president sometimes than in the official leadership, so could help provide some inputs along those ways, and there are some, say more shenanigans or morale events that we get to help put forth and present those to the cadet leadership for official approval later on as we firsties. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 8:04 Gosh, well, that was, I mean, it's really insightful for us to understand some of the roles that a class president and class cabinet plays, and so understanding that it's — I like how you put it as a supporting agent to the formal leadership. And we're gonna touch on this a lot more, because I think there's going to be times when you'll share how you build that trust and credibility throughout, both when you're a cadet and as an officer. But before we jump there, I happen to find out, Joe, that you weren't coming to the Air Force Academy to become a fighter pilot, but to become a physician. Can we talk about that for a moment? Col. Joe Bledsoe 8:37 Absolutely, that's absolutely a — I came to the Air Force Academy, wanted to be a doctor. I knew I wanted to be a biology major. I declared, I think, the first day I could declare and went through the gauntlet of getting ready for med school applications, and I loved every second of it. It was awesome. Even my fellow classmates would say he was a huge nerd and studying all the time, because that was my goal, right? I came into the Academy, and I wanted to be a doctor, and I knew the gauntlet that is, that that is required to do such a thing. And I still love medicine, right? I still love — I think medicine is fascinating. Every time my probably get there someday, or in the conversation, but anytime my kids have to go to the ER, like I'm like, “Can I scrub in,” right? All that kind of stuff. Yeah, put me in. I love medicine, and it wasn't till the summer between my two-degree and firstie year did I have that midlife crisis at the age of 21 and then firstie year is when that crisis kind of came to a head, and new doors opened, and here we are today, right? So that, yes, you're absolutely right. Always wanted to be a doctor. I was still fascinated by medicine, but now I'm just a pilot. So, there we go. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 9:57 So, can we, can you expand a bit more on it? So, was it a decision you wanted to make or a decision you had to make? Col. Joe Bledsoe 10:03 Yeah, yeah, that's great. It was a decision I had to make, ultimately, myself. Right? No one, no one said, “Joe, you can't be a doctor.” So, the summer — there's two key things that really happened that helped influence that decision. The first one was the summer between two-degree in firstie year, I had the opportunity to deploy to the Middle East, and we've heard of Ops Air Force. You know Ops Air Force. Well, at that time we had a deployed Ops Air Force, so they sent cadets overseas to deployed locations to see what was, you know, to get the full experience in a deployed location. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 10:40 Wow. Col. Joe Bledsoe 10:40 So I had the opportunity to do that. Spent the summer in CENTCOM and kind of opened my eyes to… Col. Naviere Walkewicz 10:47 Oh, Central Command. Col. Joe Bledsoe 10:47 Yeah, sorry, Central Command, and got to experience — I got attached to a C-130 unit, right, and I got to see what flying looked like in a deployed environment, and I kind of opened my eyes, where I've been hyper focused on medicine, right? Like, you know, so focused on this is what it takes to be a doctor. I kind of like put my blinders on to what the rest of the Air Force did, right? So I was like, “This is pretty, this is, these guys and gals are doing awesome stuff, like this is this is the pointy end of what was going on.” And that planted a seed, that planted a seed. So it came back, firstie year was doing the med school applications, going through, I had some free time in my academic calendar, and I got to go down to the airfield and do the powered flight program. So, I got to see flying over the summer, and then I was blessed enough to have the opportunity to go fly an airplane, and I was like, “OK, the seed was planted, let's see if I get air sick, like, let's see if there's anything else here that might make me not want to do this.” And I loved it. Right, I fell in love with flying down at the airfield. I came back, and I was like, I'm gonna pause the med school applications and put my name in the hat for pilot training, and the rest was history, right? So, doors open, doors close, right? But that was my story, and I loved getting to talk to cadets about that, because so many can be — so many times we see some that are hyper focused, and like there's always other options out there, and it's OK to have a crisis we can talk you through. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 12:23 I think that's a fantastic lesson that you actually learned early, because you know it's interesting — had you not been sent to Ops Air Force at a deployed location, you might not have taken Alex flight, and so you know when you think about leadership opportunities and lessons, this is one of those moments where it actually steered you in a new direction. So, as we think about that, I'm curious, how your family responded to that, because, you know, you had come to the Air Force Academy to be a doctor. Were they happy for you? Were they surprised, a little nervous? Col. Joe Bledsoe 12:57 Yeah, there was a ton of mentorship there, right? Not just from my family, but from upperclassmen peers, permanent party, like, “What are you doing? Like, you came here telling us this was your goal. Where did this new goal come from?” So, there was a lot of time talking that through, and I needed that myself. It wasn't, as you know, in any decision, like, it wasn't a snap decision. So, a lot of time walking through that decision process and leaning on mentors and kind of asking the questions, like I knew what four years of med school, and then residency, but I knew what that like, what does pilot training look like? How long does that take, right? So, a lot of questions to help answer, or to find answers through, and ultimately, my family was super supportive, super supportive, and they still joke, like, “Hey, how come you're not doctor.” Well, because I fly F-15s now, right? But all supportive all throughout the process, right? And that's where you lean on others, right? Lean on others, because it very much felt like a crisis, like I still have scar tissue over it. But looking back on it, it wasn't just me making — I ultimately made the decision, but they helped me through it. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 14:08 That's fantastic. You know, I think about you as an officer, as a fighter pilot, and obviously there's a lot of steps you took to get there on the road was certainly not easy. Often, though, I think that there can be some misconceptions, or maybe this is accurate, that earlier in your pilot life or your aviator life, there's probably not a lot of leadership lessons where you're leading others. Maybe, maybe that's a misperception, and we'd love to talk about that. You know, how do you find the leadership opportunities then when you are, you know, you're party of one, right? You don't necessarily have any direct reports. What does leadership look like there? Col. Joe Bledsoe 14:43 Yeah, can we take that back to like some lessons I learned at the Academy? Col. Naviere Walkewicz 14:46 Oh, absolutely. Col. Joe Bledsoe 14:47 Right, I think, I think that's where I've leaned most heavily in, like, not in there's this difference between formal leadership and informal, positional versus informal, and I was blessed enough at a pretty young age to learn the plus — the how to succeed and how to fail in informal leadership. I've tried to carry that throughout my career. So when you say like the younger days of being a wingman in the F-15 community, it's a lot about credibility. It's a lot about that peer leadership. How do you build the credibility? How do you build the trust to be someone that others look up to in that informal system, right, in that informal system. When they look down their phone, like, “Who do I call? Who do I have to call? Who do I want to call?” Right? and I think that's where you have to balance some of that stuff, and I spent time thinking about that, and trying to lean on lessons that I learned from the Academy, and while formal leadership positions were never handed to me, that doesn't mean you're not a leader, right? Like, you can't beat it, doesn't mean you don't just get to sit back and not lead. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 16:02 Can you share an example of a time when you learned that about yourself, or what that looked like? Col. Joe Bledsoe 16:09 In the flying world? Col. Naviere Walkewicz 16:11 Or as a cadet? Col. Joe Bledsoe 16:12 Yeah, as a cadet, I think the biggest one was — I'll take it back to, like, freshman, sophomore year, where I learned one of the key pillars that I'm convinced the Air Force Academy teaches all us grads about is time management, right? And I thought I was pretty good at time management, and then when you're now the president of 1,000 other cadets, your inbox fills up very quickly, right? Or you're like, “I thought I was good at time management.” And I learned very quickly that you can't do it alone, right? You can't do it alone, and I had to learn to surround myself with people that I trusted and that I could delegate or hand tasks off to, and just say, “I need this accomplished,” and I did that to my friends that I knew would get the mission done, right? And I had to have that level of trust, and I think that is translated throughout my career, where I inherently trust people with a project, right? I think there's two versions of trust, inherent trust and earned trust. When I look at the graduate network, whether that's the Air Force Academy, Navy, West Point, and I see a class ring, I'm like, “I inherently trust you,” and I can, I believe, or I see some other veterans have on — like, “I inherently trust you,” and then in other cases where I've had to learn and work with people, it's now, “I'm earning your trust, and I hope you're earning mine as well,” and that is this unique balance of I inherently trust you, I learned that at the Academy. Now let's build on that as a foundation and get this earned trust to as high as we can. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 17:54 What does some of that earned trust or becoming more credible look like when young leaders don't have the benefit of time? Right, so I, the more time I work with you, the more I learn about you. You build that credibility, etc. How does one accomplish that, maybe either shorten the gap or do that a little quicker or impactfully earlier? Col. Joe Bledsoe 18:18 Yeah, time is always — like we always need more time, right? How often do you say, like, “I only have 24 hours, but I need more time,” right? So, if we're always fighting time, like, and everybody's fighting time, then, like, that's a constant. So, let's not worry about time. So, I look at it as, like, what traits do people bring to the table, or what traits can we can we sharpen? Honesty, right? Honesty is huge. You have to be honest, and that's a pillar of trust. Integrity, right? Integrity first and showing people that you display integrity is really important. Humility, I think, is also really important. Humility is really important. I was listening to a podcast the other day, and it really struck home to me, a sense of humility is — if a leader is able to say three things, they're gonna — I know I could, I can build that trust, no matter what that time gap is. “I'm sorry,” “I was wrong,” or one of the seven basic responses: “I don't know, but I'll find out,” right? I think that's really important with humility. The other one is presence, not with a T, like we're not giving presents, but presence. Being present is really important character trait in my mind, and the fifth one that I try to reflect on a lot is action. Right? I think defaulting to not doing something is not what we want. That doesn't help build trust. Taking action with what knowledge you have and making a decision is really important, and I think those are the traits that help build that credibility, help build that trust in that time gap, whatever that looks like. If you can hit those, the five that I try to hit home. If you can do that, hopefully you're building that relationship that is going to foster — have great fruition out of it. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 20:06 That's outstanding, and that's really helpful, I think. I love how you took out the constant of time being an excuse, right? Like, we don't always have the benefit of time, whether it's time and getting more experience or just time in general, I think those are outstanding examples of how you can build credibility. So, thank you for sharing that. You know, one of the things that I also would love to kind of dig into a little bit of your experiences, Joe — because they've been really vast, right? So, I don't believe that everyone has the same kind of path. How have you grown as a leader in these different experiences that really, again, aren't positional leadership roles? I'm just curious, how your growth has been in that space. Col. Joe Bledsoe 20:47 Think a lot of it's been through failure. I think a lot of it's been through failure. These might not be huge, like we lost a million dollars, or like, not through those kind of failures, but relationship failures, or conversation failure at the micro level, and how I've tried to handle that is surround myself with people that will tell me that the emperor — I'm gonna go back to the, I'm gonna go back to the old fairy tale, or fable, right? If you surround yourself with people that are able to come up to you, and you trust them, and you trust their feedback, that is something I've tried, that was Cadet Bledsoe, advice given to me is Cadet Bledsoe. Surround yourself with people that you will listen to and take their feedback honestly. And sometimes that means if I don't have that person in the room and I know I fumbled a conversation or I made a poor decision, it's going to that individual and saying, “I messed up, I'm sorry, I was wrong,” or “I don't know,” right. And that's how I try to use that to present humility, I think, and that's important, because we're all fallible, we all make mistakes, and if I can't admit that, then, like, we're off to the wrong foot right away. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 22:06 Do you think some of that that skill that you've developed over time has been something that you've learned in, and forgive me, I don't know if it's a fighter pilot community, specifically, or you know, I think about when you do your sorties and you have some sort of debrief, right? I feel what I've heard, I've not actually sat in one, but they're very real. Like, there's no, it's not about making you feel good about it, like it's about the safety and the mission, and so I'm curious, if that skill of humility, and you know, calling a spade a spade, and calling it I'm wrong and I'm wrong, did that come from some of that experience, and maybe you can talk through what that's like, because not everyone, I think, practices at that level of transparency. Col. Joe Bledsoe 22:46 Yeah, the fighter pilot debrief. I learned some of the importance of that through mentorship as a cadet, and then that was sharpened as a fighter pilot. And I learned the importance of that through the form, my formal job, right, the mission, the lives at stake, aircraft, that kind of stuff. And I think I've tried, I've only honed that skill through Air Force training, right? The Air Force has trained me to think like that, and I've tried to translate that into my personal life and leadership positions, because I think there's tons of value to that. There is tons of value in being willing to find a mistake, own up to that mistake with the knowledge and hope that it doesn't happen again, right? And if that is like, if you, if that's your north star, we don't do this again, like, why wouldn't you want to be on that team? Why wouldn't, why don't you want to be? That's how we get better, right? And I think that seed again was planted as a cadet. Like, let's, I tell cadets all the time, like, you're joining the A-team, so put in A effort, right? Like, if you're going to join the A-team, I don't want B-players, and this is what we got to get, like, let's go, right? It's a motivating factor in my mind. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 24:08 What are some of the ways to approach that in a leadership conversation for someone who would be interested in taking on some of those, those learned lessons? Col. Joe Bledsoe 24:18 Yeah, I think the first thing is transparency and honesty right up front. Like this, Naviere, if we were flying together, right and you were my instructor, your job is not to degrade me as a human, but to prove to me that I made a mistake with the ultimate goal of making me better, right? Your job is to always, like — and the relationship you and I have as an instructor and a student is my — I'm gonna sit here in the debrief and go, and Naviere is here to make me better, right? Like, that's your, that's your job, right? Right. So, once you start that as the foundation, like, it can only get better if I know your job is to make me better, and your job is I'm supposed to make this guy better, right. And often we can, when feedback is provided, you're like, this could be a personal attack, or, like, that's all left out, that's all left outside the debrief room, right? Like, we're here to make everybody better, and I think that's where it starts: with that transparency and honesty up front of the expectation. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 25:15 So you'll actually say that. You would actually… Col. Joe Bledsoe 25:17 No, I think that's just a common, that's a common theme, right? That's the expectation in the community. And not just in the fighter community. I think it's throughout the Air Force, right? I think that's what makes us really, really unique. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 25:32 Because feedback is something that we, we do — although maybe some can do it better than others — I think that's a really fantastic way — before you're giving someone feedback, you're really clear on this is what we're hoping to accomplish by having this time together. And so, I think what you just said can make feedback so much more impactful, because it's not about the person, it's about what are we trying to accomplish and helping you, I guess. It is about you, but ultimately helping you. Col. Joe Bledsoe 25:59 Absolutely, right? Like the where every debrief starts is we had a mission objective and we had tactical objectives. Did we do them? If we didn't, let's figure out why, right? So translating to the business world or private sector, it's a root cause analysis, right? It's a root cause analysis, and we will get down to the nitty gritty of like, what type of error — did you make a decision error? Did you perceive the environment wrong? Did your actions cause the error, right? And we get down to that level, so that when the student, student Paveway walks away, Naviere, knows, Naviere, you gave me the exact, like, you decided wrong, because X, Y and Z; don't do that again. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 26:43 Right. Col. Joe Bledsoe 26:44 Here's your fix. You know, that debrief can take hours, and that's the beauty of it, right? “We're gonna sit there, and we're not gonna let anything not be uncovered, because we're gonna go do this again tomorrow, and we can't make the same mistake tomorrow,” right? “We can't make the same mistake.” Col. Naviere Walkewicz 27:01 No, that's, that's fantastic. I mean, to have it that clear, and to know it, like, OK, we're not gonna, we don't stay in that space. We've addressed it, we know we've identified a fix, and we move forward. Is that what you said? Col. Joe Bledsoe 27:12 Absolutely. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 27:13 There's no like, continue to revisit, like… Col. Joe Bledsoe 27:15 Yep, that's the point, right? Like, “I've learned something, I know, I've acknowledged my mistake. Let's move on. This wasn't personal, this was you making me better.” Iron sharpens iron, right? So, here we go, and then move on. And now that translates, as you asked kind of a couple minutes ago, right, that can translate to so many things in your life, right? And I try to do that sometimes, like my wife will tell me, I go too fighter pilot, but there's versions of that that translate as we are not in a fight or pilot debrief. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 27:50 You literally got in my head because I was gonna say, now I want to put you on the spot, because Joe, you are married to your high school sweetheart, you make a 2% club, right? Like, you actually started the Academy with a sweetheart and ended with the same sweetheart. And now you have three amazing, beautiful children. How do you translate that to, you know, feedback to your family or your personal life? And I love how your wife said too fighter pilot, but how about to your kids? Col. Joe Bledsoe 28:15 Yeah, married my high school sweetheart, Alicia. We started dating our sophomore year, and we've been together ever since. So she is not a grad, but she has a lot of Air Force in her blood, so that's great, and the kids, I would say there's a couple things when it comes to taking some things I've learned or been trained in the Air Force, translating on the home front. The first one goes to accountability, right? I think accountability is really important because in an aircraft, you have to be accountable for your actions, and I think that translates to being a parent, as well as trying to teach the kids some humility. Right, where to be humble, when to own up to your mistakes, and sometimes that works in the fighter pilot way, sometimes it doesn't, and I think that's leadership, right? You can have leadership skills and be consistent in some, in some ways, but other times adaptability is really important, especially with the kids, and each one of my kids is very unique, and we have to cater to each one of them and their unique skills. I will say about my wife, I love her with all my heart, but she knows the words “knock it off” as well, right, because that's a sacred word, not just in the military, but on our, in our homefront, and that usually means stop being a full fighter pilot, like go back to being Dad, right? So she knows, she knows the words and how to make that all go down. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 29:47 I love that it's another language, right? You have your, your fighter pilot language, and you have a home front language. I love that. Thank you for sharing that. You know, I'd like to switch gears a little bit to your time operationally, and maybe this translates into now your work at the Institute, or your most recent work at the Institute for Future Conflict and preparing cadets for the future fight. I'm curious, how all of these skills that you've learned, and these leadership traits that you've continued to develop in yourself, have translated in moments of, you know, like, real conflict, real distress, like when the stakes are high, and how you prepare cadets to think that way, even though maybe they've not experienced that. I'm just curious, what that looks like. Col. Joe Bledsoe 30:31 Yeah, it is hard to translate — like cadets love war stories, right? Like, “So there I was…” but it's hard to translate some of, like, the putting, having the cadets put themselves in the shoes of someone that has 15 years of flying under their belt, right? Like, that's hard for them to grasp, and I understand that, and that's not what I'm asking of them to do, but there are certain skills that I think are really important, and that I've got to experience and talk to cadets and research and spend time thinking about at the Institute for Future Conflict at the IFC. One is risk, right? How do we, how do we think about risk, right? Are we risk prone? We risk adverse? How do we think about risk, not just in this moment, but how does our decision today affect five days from now, a month, right? And, as you remember, because I know it happened to you as a cadet, like you're just in the, like, “What's my next problem,” right? What's my next — OK, how does, like, fixing this problem affect next week? Right. And I think that's what I've got had the opportunity to think a lot about the IFC, as well as try one thing I've learned being back here at the Academy was my experience as a cadet is not the same experience as the cadets now. And what do I mean by that is when I graduated, GWOT, Global War on Terror was the thing we knew what we were getting into. I very much knew flying, going to the Middle East. Now the cadets looked to me and other permanent party, and like, what's our fight going to look like? And right, the question mark is, I don't know, but let me tell you, think about this, and I could be wrong, and I think that is where I've had a lot of time to think about future conflict and what's problems, maybe not nations or adversaries, but like big meta level things they'll have to think about, information access, information sharing, trust, right? How do you, how do you help develop some of these skills in the cadets? And that's where I've spent a lot of time the last two years trying to think and spend, spend some brain bytes, like what does air power look like in this unknown environment? Col. Naviere Walkewicz 32:52 And as you're about to step back into it, I'm thoughtful of that, and so now you're taking what you've helped cadets start to hone in and think about. How are you different now as a leader going back into the cockpit than you were when you came to the Academy? Col. Joe Bledsoe 33:09 Yeah, let me get back to the cockpit, and everyone can tell me what, how I'm different. We'll use that as the test. But here's one thing I think — I've reflected on this recently, going back to the Strike Eagle community. One has been my exposure here in Colorado Springs and at the Air Force Academy, meaning I've learned a lot about what others do that I wasn't — I knew other jobs existed, I knew other AFSCs did things, but not being in a flying day-to-day ops tempo, I've had the opportunity to sit down and, like, “What do you say you do?” “Oh, that has some effects here, here, and here,” and I use a specific vignette would be, I've got to spend a lot of time in the management department and helped teach in the global logistics minor, and like, I knew there was logisticians in the Air Force, and like, that's yeah, right? That's how stuff got here, but like, understanding the importance of, like, that's how my bombs got here, this is how the b…, right, like, truly understanding their frustrations, I think will make me get less frustrated in my day to day, right, and I think that has been one thing that the Academy has given back to me the second time I've been here, is a little bit more exposure to the Air Force, as well as the Space Force, being here in Colorado Springs, like seeing what each team member, like each cog in the machine brings to the fight, right? And I think that's been a blessing here. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 34:42 So those that you will begin to get back working with — your men and women in your community — they won't have had that exposure, and so I'm now going back to our where we started with the sense of informal leadership. How do you help others gain that experience and thought, and maybe thought process informally, since they haven't really been exposed to that? How would you help them navigate it? Col. Joe Bledsoe 35:09 Naviere, I think the best way to do stuff like that is, like, you raised your hand when you said logistics officers, like Naviere, we're doing a podcast with my next squadron, you're coming to talk, right? Col. Naviere Walkewicz 35:19 Right, it's like that was like a long time ago, we need someone more recent. Col. Joe Bledsoe 35:24 But, OK, Naviere, it's not you, but you know people, that's how stuff gets done, right, that's how stuff gets done. And while I by no means want to stand up in front of everybody and say I'm the expert on logistics, but I, I'm not that person, but I trust Naviere, Naviere's contact here, and that's how, like, you create this network of knowledge and this network of trust and credibility. And to my, to the fighter pilots that I'll be flying with, it's somewhat like throwing mud at the wall sometimes, like we're gonna keep throwing mud and see what sticks, but at least they know it's there, right? Like, we're gonna, your job is still to go kill things and blow things up, but at the same time, you know there's this other network out there that you can lean into. But let me be a conduit to make that happen. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 36:15 That is awesome. That's fantastic. So I want to go into this period now, where we talk about you and your continued growth as a leader. What is something, Joe, that you're doing every day to be a better leader? Col. Joe Bledsoe 36:30 I have mentors, and I've tried to find mentees. I think that is where growth can happen, leaning on others for mentorship and mentees to try to talk through some things you've thought through and give experience and exposure to others, right? And that's that network we were just talking about, right? Other things I think are really important is reading and writing. Read a lot, write a lot, nobody writes good anymore, right? Thanks, ChatGPT. But being able to communicate in the written form is really important. So, writing and reading. And the other thing, too, is as a leader, just find an outlet, find something, find a hobby, find something that's fun to do, right. So, I got into running here at the Academy, because we're at high elevation, and I'm, why not, right? But find something that, like, rounds you out, right? It's fine, find an outlet that helps give you some relief from all the stresses that can happen in leadership. That's where I would say I spend a lot of time, or what I think about trying to sharpen my skills. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 37:34 Daily. So, what are you reading right now? Col. Joe Bledsoe 37:37 Oh, that's a great question. I have a couple books that are on the table. Mask of Command is one that I'm reading as I get ready to go back and potentially be in a leadership role. There's a couple other books that come to mind. I'm reading a baseball coaching book, because I coach my baseball, it's a basketball book by Coach K from Duke, as I go back to North Carolina, but it's a book, how to coach kids, right, Leadership on the Court, and it's fun to just think about training and coaching kids and how to keep them inspired. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 38:18 Oh, that's awesome. So, speaking of kids, if you were to go back in time, and talk to younger Joe Bledsoe, the third, what advice would you give him? Col. Joe Bledsoe 38:30 Yeah, if I had to go back, I would say it's worth it. Every second, work hard at the Academy, right? The doors that it opens, that's where my mind went when you asked the question, like, younger me at the Academy. Be good to Alicia, my wife, right? Be good, because she's going to be with you for a long time. So be good to her, as well as foster your, foster your friendships. They're going to mean a lot to you in the future, right? The relationships you build on that hill are going to come back in ways you have no idea years to come. So take time and prioritize the people that you meet. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 39:10 Those are really great reflections. Joe, is there anything that we haven't covered in our conversation that you would love to share with our Long Blue Leadership listeners and viewers? Col. Joe Bledsoe 39:24 Absolutely, be proud of this institution. I'm proud of it. I know you are too, Naviere. Proud of this Academy. Be proud of the cadets, be proud of the permanent party that work here. There's an A-team out there, and this is this is where it starts, right? And it's not just if you're serving in blue or in the Space Force, right? If you're out there doing awesome things for our country on the private, in the private sector, thank you. Keep doing what you're doing. There's no shade of blue in the Long Blue Line, that's my, my phrase for that one. There's no shade of blue. Serve your country, be proud. And that's — just be proud to be an Academy grad. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 40:07 That's fantastic. So, you know, in our time together, I have loved this, this, this leadership conversation, because we really span an area that I don't think a lot of people talk about, and it's, how do you demonstrate leadership in an informal way, you know, without titles and without necessarily key positions or in the hierarchical structure, and so some of the things that really stood with me, Joe, that you've covered, have been being credible, being present, and humble. I really like that, and you didn't say this in these words, but what I took from that was, you know, being honest and truthful is almost one of the most kind ways you can be right, because you're actually helping someone be better, and that really stuck with me, you know. I don't, we have an A-team, we don't need B-players, that I think you exactly said that, so definitely stuck with me. But watching the way that you have led, not with your class, not just the cadets, and, you know, certainly not the squadron that you will have here shortly as a director of operations, but I think you've continued to just be who you've always been, which is someone who leads with integrity through those pillars and certainly by example. So this has been an incredible conversation, and for anyone that is watching us and listening to this, for others that are in their leadership journeys, this is another one you're going to want to share, because it's not just about, you know, Lt. Col. Bledsoe's journey right now, it's been all of these moments and experiences and memories and they really do connect with anyone on a leadership journey. So, be sure to join in on longblueleadership.org or wherever you get your podcasts, not just to see this one, but all of our other conversations. So, Joe, thank you so much for joining us today. Col. Joe Bledsoe 41:46 Thank you Naviere. Go Air Force! Col. Naviere Walkewicz 41:48 Go Air Force! Col. Joe Bledsoe 41:49 There we go. Col. Naviere Walkewicz 41:50 Absolutely, until next time, we'll see you on Long Blue Leadership. KEYWORDS informal leadership, peer leadership, Air Force Academy leadership, USAFA class president, fighter pilot debrief culture, building trust and credibility, leadership humility, future conflict and airpower, Long Blue Leadership podcast, military leadership lessons. The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation
Do your thoughts ever get stuck in a cycle of what-ifs? What if something goes wrong? What if things don't work out? What if I'm not ready for what's ahead? In this episode, Bonnie shares a personal story about preparing for surgery and the unexpected moment that reminded her she wasn't walking through the valley alone. Through scripture & science of negativity bias, you'll discover why our minds naturally focus on fear—and a simple soul care practice that can help you shift your attention from the shadows to the Shepherd. If you're facing uncertainty, waiting for answers, navigating a health challenge, or feeling overwhelmed by what-ifs, this episode will encourage you to move from fear to faith—one step at a time. Key Takeaways — Why our minds naturally focus on worst-case scenarios— The difference between fear's what-ifs and faith's perspective— How Jesus comforts us in seasons of uncertainty— What to notice to calm an anxious heart— The science of negativity bias and emotional wellness— A simple soul care practice to help you move from fear to faith Breath Prayer Inhale: This is the wayExhale: Walk in it Scripture "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'" Isaiah 30:21 → Free Devotional Gift Download your free devotional: Bonnie’s FREE “Find Your Joy with Jesus: A 4-Day Devotional.”https://thebonniegray.com/findyourjoydevotional/Prioritize self-care the Jesus way and experience rest, renewal, and encouragement for your soul. Take Bonnie's Soul Care Courses: Breathe Joy with Jesus:Create Happy Wellness Rhythms to Cultivate Joy with God's PromisesRegister at https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/ → Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store Watch YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegrayBestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather Younger. Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:
Retirement readiness isn't just about how much you've saved... it's about how you want to live. In this conversation, Peter with Richon Planning and Erin kennedy break down a simple, 5-step checklist to help you prepare for your next chapter: ✔️ Define what retirement actually looks like for you ✔️ Take stock of your financial and personal assets ✔️ Prioritize your health (it affects more than you think) ✔️ Build a realistic retirement budget ✔️ Decide when to claim Social Security The earlier you start planning, the more freedom you have to actually achieve your goals. If you'd like to talk with Peter to start building a retirement plan that aligns with your life, not just your balance sheet, feel free to give him a call at (919) 300-5886 or visit www.RichonPlanning.com
Rest is not weakness. It is a weapon. In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, Paul Alex breaks down why recovery, sleep, and physical health are not optional when you are building at a high level. Let's be real… If you are bragging about sleeping four hours… Running on caffeine… Skipping recovery… And making major decisions while exhausted… You are not being disciplined. You are operating compromised. In this episode, you'll learn: Why burnout is not a badge of honor How sleep deprivation hurts focus, judgment, and execution Why your body is one of the most important assets in your business How elite recovery creates sharper thinking, better leadership, and stronger performance The truth is simple: You cannot build an empire on an empty battery. Your brain needs recovery. Your body needs restoration. Your emotions need regulation. And your business needs you operating at full capacity. High-level entrepreneurs do not destroy their health to prove they are working hard. They protect the asset. They prioritize sleep. They train their body. They guard their energy. Because a fully rested CEO can make better decisions, move faster, and lead with more control. Stop treating exhaustion like a flex. Prioritize recovery. Protect your energy. Operate at the highest level. And keep leveling up. Your Network is your NETWORTH! Make sure to add me on all SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS: Instagram: https://jo.my/paulalex2024Facebook: https://jo.my/fbpaulalex2024YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGhDAD1JyGGzSQUPD9lc9HQLinkedIn: https://jo.my/inpaulalex2024 Looking for a secondary source of income or want to become an entrepreneur? Check out one of my companies below to see if we can help you: www.CashSwipe.com FREE Copy of my book “Blue to Digital Gold - The New American Dream”www.officialPaulAlex.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tom Kelly, Jon Ritchie, and Ashlyn Sullivan of the 94WIP Morning Show analyze the Phillies' recent struggles following a loss to the Mets, focusing on Aaron Nola's inconsistent performance and the lack of depth in the rotation. They debate whether Dave Dombrowski should prioritize a big-name pitcher or an outfield bat as the trade deadline approaches. The crew also shares their thoughts on Andrew Painter's development and introduces a Famous Friendships giveaway. 01:50 - Zodiac Signs and Nicknames 05:32 - Andrew Painter and Bullpen Struggles 10:45 - Debating Offense vs Pitching Needs 15:00 - Don Mattingly's Managerial Impact 19:48 - Dombrowski on Starting Depth 24:43 - Sean's Old School Pitching Take 31:50 - Famous Friendships and Rush Tickets 36:35 - Re-evaluating Aaron Nola's Future
Timestamps : 0:12 — Introduction — Meet the Holistic Kids hosts & welcome Dr. Evan Hirsch 0:23 — The Fatigue Epidemic in Kids — Why kids today are chronically tired 1:30 — Dr. Hirsch's Origin Story — From conventional medicine to holistic fatigue specialist 2:18 — His Personal Battle — Dr. Hirsch's own chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosis 2:50 — The Toxic Five — Heavy metals, mold, chemicals, infections & nervous system dysfunction 4:08 — Biggest Fatigue Mistake — Why people misread tiredness as "just getting older" 4:30 — Toxins from Birth — 300+ chemicals found in newborn cord blood 5:50 — Top Energy Drainers for Kids — Screens, sleep deprivation, poor diet & dehydration 7:58 — Daily Habits to Boost Energy — Simple, natural practices anyone can start today 8:36 — The Morning Water Trick — Why your brain shrinks 60% during sleep & how water helps 9:45 — Warning Signs to Watch — When fatigue means it's time to see a doctor 11:04 — Inside Your Cells — How mitochondria drive energy & what shuts them down 12:22 — Trauma & Energy — How stress and generational trauma drain your body 14:46 — Advice for Parents — How to identify and address fatigue in your kids 16:23 — Dr. Hirsch's 4-Step Method — The framework to resolve chronic fatigue naturally 19:55 — #1 Thing to Do Right Now — Sleep & hydration as the ultimate energy foundations 21:22 — Where to Find Dr. Hirsch — fixyourfatigue.com & free assessment call Are your kids always exhausted — even after a full night's sleep? In this episode of The Holistic Kids Show, hosts Zane, Maz, and Carson sit down with world-renowned fatigue and long COVID expert Dr. Evan Hirsch, founder and CEO of the International Center for Fatigue, to uncover why so many kids (and adults) are struggling with chronic tiredness — and what to do about it. Dr. Hirsch shares his personal journey from burned-out conventional doctor to holistic fatigue specialist, including his own battle with chronic fatigue syndrome. He breaks down his signature "Toxic Five" — heavy metals, mold, chemicals, chronic infections, and stress/trauma — and explains how these hidden culprits silently drain your energy from the inside out. In this episode, you'll learn: Why kids today are more tired than ever (and it's not just screen time) What's really happening inside your cells when you feel constantly exhausted How trauma — even generational trauma — affects your energy levels Warning signs that your fatigue needs a doctor's attention Dr. Hirsch's simple 4-step method to restore energy naturally The #1 thing any kid, teen, or parent can do right now to feel better Simple daily habits covered: Start your morning with a liter of filtered water Build a daily gratitude practice Prioritize 7–9 hours of sleep and get off your phone at night Whether you're a kid feeling drained, a teen burning the candle at both ends, or a parent trying to help your child thrive — this episode is packed with practical, digestible advice.
In this episode, Dr. Thomas Hemingway shares one of the Top Longevity Killers, Inflammaging, what it is and what you can do about it.He explains how you can reverse this and get your body, health and life back, so you aren't just defined by how many candles are on the birthday cake, but by how you feel-- younger, stronger, and sharper than before.Have a Listen and Share with a Friend!**Free PDF: "How to Optimize your Metabolism in 7 Easy Steps." Inside the PDF, we pull back the curtain on how to actually get your metabolism Super-charger and running better than ever before.*And, in my new Performance, and Longevity medical practice we specialize in turning back your biological age and OPTIMIZING HORMONES so you can feel a decade or more younger so you can do the things you want to do that you thought were no longer possible due to your age. Join the waitlist here!*Don't wait to Prioritize your health, Start Today with the Simple and Powerful Steps detailed in my Best-selling book, PREVENTABLE.*ACCESS my FREE workshop, "GET 10 Years Younger, Stronger, and Sharper" How to turn back your biological age 10-20 years so you can do the things you want to do that you no longer thought possible due to your age. Perform at your best and live your best life!Join my Free Masterclass on Midlife Hormones, "Why You Don't Feel like Yourself anymore and What to Do about it!"JET LAG Survival Guide. Free PDF!*GET DIRECT ACCESS to DR. HEMINGWAY in these AMAZING COURSES!**Free Resource: "The 7 lab tests your doctor likely is not checking and could be the key to why you don't feel your best." *Don't Forget to SHARE with a Friend and please drop a Review:) It means the world!Mahalo and Aloha andTo your health,
Following up on last week's episode, Darren and Mark talk with Philip Riggs, A VIP client at their recent OWN THE STAGE 3-DAY presentation coaching workshop. Philip shares the lessons and insights that empowered him to transform his speech almost overnight and earned him a standing ovation on Day 3. He also explains ways that he changed as a result of the coaching process. SNIPPETS: • Be determined to learn • Stretch yourself • Be open to learning from others, even if they are strangers • Make your content 'YOU-focused' • Look for every area of your speech that needs improvement • Prioritize two or three areas to work on • The work is hard, push through • There's a difference between knowing what to do and how to implement it • You can experience mind-blowing transformation in three days • Implement the feedback from qualified coaches Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/ Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com
In this deep-dive episode of the Prolonged Field Care Podcast, Dennis sits down with trauma and critical care surgeon Dr. John McClellan ( University of North Carolina) to cut through the noise on tranexamic acid (TXA) in trauma.They cover the mechanism, who actually needs it, why the dosing shifted from 1g + drip to 2g upfront, pre-hospital decision-making when bleeding is controlled, redosing in ongoing hemorrhage, IM/IO options, seizure and hypotension concerns, the critical 3-hour window, and practical advice for the medic who is truly alone and afraid.Whether you're a combat medic, flight medic, or trauma provider, this conversation delivers actionable clarity on one of the most studied — and sometimes misunderstood — tools in hemorrhagic shock resuscitation.Key Takeaways:TXA is a lysine analog that reversibly (and at higher doses irreversibly) binds plasminogen, preventing its conversion to plasmin and stabilizing clots. It is one of the most evidence-backed hemorrhage adjuncts available.The ideal candidate is any patient you suspect will trigger (or has triggered) a massive transfusion protocol — not just obvious amputations. Err on the side of giving it early in pre-hospital/austere settings to avoid missing occult bleeding.Modern trauma practice favors 2g IV push upfront over the older CRASH-2 regimen of 1g bolus + 8-hour drip because traumatic bleeding is an acute event that needs rapid high plasma levels. The 8-hour drip was designed for elective surgical cases with ongoing bleeding over hours.Overall safety is excellent. Large meta-analyses have not shown a clear increase in thrombotic events attributable to TXA. The bigger practical risks are seizures with doses significantly above 2g and accidental double-dosing due to poor handoff between pre-hospital and hospital teams.Transient hypotension can occur with rapid push, but causality is murky — it is often impossible to separate from the patient's underlying shock state.Redosing is reasonable (another 1–2g) if significant re-bleeding causes hemodynamic instability. Roughly 25% of active TXA can be lost in major hemorrhage/transfusion models.Give TXA within 3 hours of injury for maximum benefit. After 3 hours efficacy drops sharply and some data suggest potential increased bleeding risk.For the solo medic: Preload if your protocol allows. Make TXA automatic once you have access (alongside calcium and blood products). Prioritize rapid transport. TCCC supports IM if no IV/IO is possible, though delivering the full 2g volume can be challenging.Documentation and clear handoff are non-negotiable when pre-hospital TXA is given.Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Podcast Disclaimer00:25 – Guest Introduction: Dr. John McClellan, Trauma Surgeon01:52 – What is TXA and How Does It Actually Work?03:28 – Who Should Get TXA? The Massive Transfusion Patient04:16 – Pre-Hospital TXA: Bleed Control First or TXA First?07:06 – Safety Concerns: Thrombosis, Seizures & Double Dosing Risks09:54 – Dosing Evolution: CRASH-2, 1g + Drip vs 2g Push in Trauma13:33 – Does TXA Cause Hypotension? Unpacking the Evidence19:12 – IO & IM TXA: Practical Routes When IV Access Is Tough21:46 – Redosing TXA in Ongoing Bleeding or Transport29:37 – Advice for the Medic Who Is Truly “Alone and Afraid”32:21 – The 3-Hour Rule: Why Timing Matters and What Happens After34:14 – Final Thoughts & Practical Takeaways from Dr. McClellanFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
"Listen to your gut instinct.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Dr. Richard Clabaugh shares his journey from being a general dentist to acquiring and running his own orthodontic practice. He discusses the challenges he faced during the transition, including team dynamics, employee turnover, and the importance of leadership. Richard reflects on his growth as a leader and the lessons learned over the past ten years, emphasizing the significance of building a strong team culture and the need for adaptability in the face of change. Dr. Clabaugh also reflects on the significance of purpose beyond profit, encouraging aspiring practice owners to prioritize their values and family time while navigating the complexities of ownership. Connect With Our Guest Dr. Richard Clabaugh - https://clabaughorthodontics.com/richard@clabaughorthodontics.com Takeaways Richard's journey from general dentistry to orthodontics was driven by a desire for ownership.Acquiring a practice involves navigating complex challenges, including team dynamics.Leadership requires a balance of authority and responsibility.Employee turnover is a common challenge during ownership transitions.Building a strong team culture is essential for practice success.It's important to prioritize team health alongside patient care.Leadership can be lonely, and support from peers is invaluable.Recognizing the value of team members is key to retention.Open communication with staff can help navigate changes effectively.Building genuine relationships within the team enhances collaboration.Core values should be recited regularly to maintain focus.Team members should be involved in the hiring process for better fit.Prioritize family and personal time amidst the demands of practice ownership.Chapters 00:00 Introduction06:32 Why Choose Acquisition08:58 Due Diligence Mindset13:37 Lessons After Purchase17:30 Leadership Energy On Stage19:18 Early Ownership Challenges21:38 Team Turnover Reality30:52 Hiring the Right Team35:02 Leading With Humility39:35 Team Recognition Culture41:49 Hiring and Letting Go46:54 Faith and Leadership Reality48:43 Acquisition Advice50:26 Meaning Beyond Money55:40 Contact Info Episode Credits: Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com. If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode. New episodes drop every Thursday!
Trump hosted UFC fights on the South Lawn of the White House and men are back! Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, a bald eagle, fireworks, and a 6-1 underdog who emerged victorious. Bridget draws a straight line from the 2016 pussy hat marches to UFC on the White House lawn, and what this means for the country. #ufc #trump #dumpsterfire #BridgetPhetasy Topics covered: UFC White House lawn, Freedom 250, Justin Gaethje, Josh Hokit Michelle Obama, Dana White, masculinity, toxic masculinity, Democrats Rise Up Sing Out, Bette Midler, America 250th birthday, men are back
Every summer, I find myself hoping this will be the season I feel more rested, more connected, and more present. But too often, Labor Day arrives, and I wonder where the time went. In this episode, I'm sharing five practical ways to make this summer one you'll truly enjoy, not because it's packed with activities, but because it's filled with what matters most. We'll talk about caring for your body, feeding your mind, strengthening your soul, investing in relationships, and learning to rest. My hope is that you'll finish this episode with a simple plan to create a summer that's meaningful, refreshing, and deeply life-giving. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:00:02 - Redefining Your Best Summer Yet 0:01:40 - Caring for Your Body Without Obsessing Over Looks 0:06:40 - Feeding Your Mind with Books and New Hobbies 0:10:55 - Deepening Your Relationship with God This Summer 0:14:45 - Strengthening Family Bonds and Practicing Real Rest What We Talk About Why the best summer isn't necessarily the busiest summer Caring for your body without focusing on appearance The benefits of spending time outdoors Simple ways to grow mentally and emotionally Creating space for spiritual growth during summer Building stronger family relationships Speaking life into your children and loved ones Having deeper, more meaningful conversations Learning the biblical value of rest Five reflection questions to help shape your summer intentionally The Five Areas for Your Best Summer Yet 1. Care for Your Body Take daily walks Spend more time outside Drink more water Prioritize sleep Choose activities that bring joy 2. Feed Your Mind Read a meaningful book Explore a new hobby Learn a new skill Study something that interests you 3. Strengthen Your Soul Spend intentional time with God Read Scripture regularly Take prayer walks Practice gratitude Create moments of quiet listening 4. Invest in Relationships Spend intentional time with family and friends Have deeper conversations Speak life into those you love Create meaningful memories 5. Learn the Art of Rest Take breaks without guilt Create healthy rhythms Allow yourself to slow down Trust God with what remains undone Five Reflection Questions for Summer How do I want to feel when summer ends? What memories do I want to create? What habits do I want to build? What relationships do I want to strengthen? How do I want to grow closer to God? Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
We were delighted to welcome Seth Holehouse, host of the popular podcast Man in America, to The Breggin Hour. With over a million listeners dedicated to uncovering the forces reshaping our nation, Seth brings a thoughtful, big-picture perspective that resonates deeply with our own work exposing global predators. This wide-ranging conversation touched on the Epstein files, MKUltra, satanic ritual abuse, compromised elites, spiritual warfare, and the practical steps each of us can take to live freely in an upside-down world. As always, we encourage you to listen to the full episode for the complete exchange. The Epstein Files: A Crack in the Veil Seth first encountered the Epstein story years ago amid early discussions of Pizzagate, the Podestas, disturbing artwork, and high-profile figures like Bill Clinton. The more recent document releases struck a chord, especially with younger people encountering the horror on TikTok. “There are a lot of people that… look around and just have this sense that something's just not right with the world.” These awakening moments—whether from 9/11, COVID, or the Epstein revelations—pierce the illusions. Seth urges us to step back and take the broader view rather than getting lost in distractions or narrow slices of the truth. This aligns with our own experience: the more we step back and examine the complete picture, the clearer the patterns of predation become. MKUltra, Survivor Testimony, and the Pyramid of Control Seth has conducted powerful interviews with survivors of MKUltra and satanic ritual abuse, including a dedicated series exploring these dark networks. These accounts reveal how compromise, blackmail, and ritual abuse serve as tools to control those who rise in elite circles. He draws on important works, including Fritz Springmeier's Bloodlines of the Illuminati, Jim Marrs ‘ Behold a Pale Horse, and especially Andrzej Łobaczewski's Political Ponerology. Łobaczewski, a Polish psychiatrist who survived both Nazi and Communist regimes, studied how pathological personalities—particularly psychopaths and character-disordered individuals lacking conscience and empathy—infiltrate and corrupt institutions. This leads to pathocracy, or “rule by evil,” where a small minority of disordered people seize power, distort ideologies, and promote their own kind. The process, called ponerization, gradually transforms normal groups into pathological ones through infiltration, blackmail, and twisted moral justifications (paramoralisms). Visible politicians, celebrities, and CEOs often serve as puppets in a modern Allegory of the Cave, while real power lies higher up within protected bloodlines and networks. Compromise—frequently involving the abuse of children—ensures loyalty. This framework helps explain the spread of evil at the highest levels and why left-right political theater so often distracts from deeper systemic pathology. As Seth's survivor interviews illustrate, these mechanisms are not abstract—they destroy lives and souls. Facing this kind of evil is not easy. Ginger noted how confronting the Epstein files broke her heart and made it difficult to continue looking for a time. Peter connected it to his lifelong reform work protecting children and the vulnerable from institutional and psychiatric abuse. Spiritual Warfare and the Choice Before Us We see these issues as fundamentally spiritual—a testing ground where individuals and societies must choose virtue, love, and truth over base appetites and predation. Seth, raised in a Christian home with an emphasis on simply being a good person, describes a predator-prey dynamic operating at elite levels. Peter and I shared reflections on our partnership, including the challenges of Peter's stroke and his remarkable recovery through hyperbaric oxygen therapy and other supports. After decades together fighting for patients and human freedom, we know the sustaining power of love and mutual commitment in the face of darkness. Spotting Controlled Opposition and Questioning Authority Seth offered practical wisdom for navigating today's information landscape—wisdom we have learned through hard experience: Heavy focus on left-right political divides often serves the control grid by keeping people distracted and divided. Beware influencers who shut down discussion of “forbidden” topics or demand unquestioning loyalty. Prioritize sources with evidence and receipts rather than vague “secret intel.” Maintain an open mind and even question your own assumptions. “It's my moral duty to question everything… even to question my own beliefs.” This spirit of honest inquiry is essential. As we have seen time and again, real reform begins with refusing to accept surface narratives and insisting on truth. Prep Like Noah: Returning to Human Living Living near a major population center, Seth speaks from experience about preparedness—not driven by fear, but by a return to traditional, responsible ways of life. His forthcoming book Prep Like Noah and the new private community The Ark (buildthearc.com) focus on self-reliance in food, energy, homeschooling, and community. The coming “flood” may involve digital IDs, surveillance, engineered shortages, and expanding tyranny. By reclaiming control over the essentials of life, we become less vulnerable. Like Noah, we build what we can control and allow pathological systems to collapse under the weight of their own evil, incompetence, and infighting. Peter found Seth's grounded, calming perspective especially helpful. We agree: returning to authentic human connection, family, and stewardship is one of the strongest defenses against the demoralization that global predators promote. Final Thoughts Conversations like this remind us that while the forces arrayed against humanity are formidable, truth-seeking, moral courage, strong families, and practical action offer real hope and freedom. We are grateful to Seth Holehouse for joining us and look forward to future discussions. Connect with Seth Holehouse: Website: SethHolehouse.com Podcast: Man in America Book & Community: Prep Like Noah / BuildTheArc.com Conversations like this remind us that while the forces arrayed against humanity are formidable — truth-seeking, moral courage, strong families, and practical action offer real hope and freedom. We are grateful to Seth Holehouse for joining us and look forward to future discussions. ______ Learn more about Dr. Peter Breggin's work: https://breggin.com/ See more from Dr. Breggin's long history of being a reformer in psychiatry: https://breggin.com/Psychiatry-as-an-Instrument-of-Social-and-Political-Control Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal, the how-to manual @ https://breggin.com/a-guide-for-prescribers-therapists-patients-and-their-families/ Get a copy of Dr. Breggin's latest book: WHO ARE THE “THEY” - THESE GLOBAL PREDATORS? WHAT ARE THEIR MOTIVES AND THEIR PLANS FOR US? HOW CAN WE DEFEND AGAINST THEM? Covid-19 and the Global Predators: We are the Prey Get a copy: https://www.wearetheprey.com/ “No other book so comprehensively covers the details of COVID-19 criminal conduct as well as its origins in a network of global predators seeking wealth and power at the expense of human freedom and prosperity, under cover of false public health policies.” ~ Robert F Kennedy, Jr Author of #1 bestseller The Real Anthony Fauci and Founder, Chairman and Chief Legal Counsel for Children's Health Defense.
You may be surprised.
In this session, Rebecca, Josh, Isaiah, and Danny discuss how to best handle crises in their ministries. Youth ministers often play the first responder role, and it's crucial to think proactively of how to handle a crisis well, whether it be with a student, a family tragedy, or leadership. Resources: Ministering to Students in Crisis - Rooted Ministry Dr. Gordon Bals on Discussing Grief with Teenagers: Grieving, in the life of a teenager, can result from many events (not just death). In this podcast Anna Harris (Rooted Parent Editor) speaks with the remarkable Dr. Gordon Bals about bringing the gospel to a grieving teenager. Dr. Bals specializes in grief, trauma, and religious and spiritual issues. How Are We Preparing Our Kids For Suffering in this World with Michelle Reyes: Examining 1 Peter 4:1-19, author and speaker Dr. Michelle Reyes discusses how Christians suffer at the hands of non-believers, the ways that the believing community should care for each other as fellow suffering Christians, and how to find hope in the midst of suffering. Adopt the "first responder" model for crisis care. Establish a clear communication protocol with church leadership. Prioritize presence and prayer with families in crisis. Proactively set boundaries and recovery practices for personal well-being. Consider Rooted's mentorship program for support. Hosted by: Danny Kwon, author of Teenagers and Mental Health; Becca Heck, M. Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary; Isaiah Marshall, Rooted's Director of Ministry Development; and Josh Hussung, M. Div. in Pastor Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Discovering Grayslake: Unveiling the Stories and People That Make Our Town Unique
In this episode of Discovering Grayslake, host sits down with Mayor Elizabeth Davies as she reflects on her first year in office. They cover the village's balanced budget, expanded bike paths, and nature trail improvements. Mayor Davies addresses the controversial data center development, emphasizing fact-based dialogue and community unity. The conversation also highlights support for local businesses on Center Street and exciting upcoming events, including a 250th anniversary drone show. Throughout, Mayor Davies reinforces her commitment to transparent leadership and keeping Grayslake a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Discovering Grayslake: Leadership, Community, and Growth – Insights from Mayor Elizabeth Davies Grayslake, Illinois, is more than just a picturesque Midwestern town—it's a thriving community built on fiscal responsibility, open communication, and a deep sense of hometown pride. In a recent episode of the "Discovering Grayslake" podcast, Mayor Elizabeth Davies sat down with the host to reflect on her first year in office, discuss the village's priorities, and share her vision for the future. This in-depth blog post unpacks the main themes and actionable insights from their conversation, offering valuable guidance for residents, local leaders, and anyone passionate about building stronger communities. Table of Contents Fiscal Responsibility: Building a Sustainable Future Transparent and Positive Communication Supporting Local Businesses: The Heart of Grayslake Open Spaces and Connectivity: Enhancing Quality of Life Smart Growth and Zoning: Balancing Progress with Community Values Navigating Controversy: The Data Center Development Celebrating Community: Events that Unite Grayslake Expert Advice: Actionable Tips for Community Leaders Final Thoughts: Fostering Unity and Engagement 1. Fiscal Responsibility: Building a Sustainable Future Key Takeaway: Grayslake's commitment to fiscal responsibility is a cornerstone of its success. Mayor Davies' first budget as mayor maintained a balanced budget and zero debt status, with only a modest 1.5% increase in spending despite inflationary pressures. In-Depth Insights: Prudent Budgeting:** Every dollar spent is carefully evaluated to ensure it delivers value to residents. The village prioritizes essential services while seeking efficiencies to keep costs down. Zero Debt Policy:** Grayslake's zero debt status is rare among municipalities and provides flexibility for future investments. Avoiding debt means more resources can be directed toward community projects and less toward interest payments. Strategic Investments:** New funding was allocated for marketing and communications, recognizing the importance of keeping residents informed and engaged. Actionable Advice: For Local Leaders:** Regularly review and justify all expenditures. Communicate budget decisions transparently to build trust. Invest in areas that strengthen community engagement and long-term sustainability. 2. Transparent and Positive Communication Key Takeaway: Effective communication is essential for building trust and fostering community engagement. Mayor Davies has prioritized improving how the village connects with residents. In-Depth Insights: Official Channels Matter:** As mayor, communication must be measured and comply with legal requirements like the Open Meetings Act. Email is the preferred method for residents to reach the mayor, ensuring accountability and transparency. Expanding Communication Tools:** The village is investing in new channels—such as newsletters, social media, and public meetings—to reach a broader audience. Tone and Approach:** Mayor Davies emphasizes the importance of positive, respectful dialogue, especially when addressing controversial topics. Actionable Advice: For Community Leaders:** Establish clear, accessible channels for resident feedback. Respond promptly and thoughtfully to questions and concerns. Foster a culture of civility, even when opinions differ. 3. Supporting Local Businesses: The Heart of Grayslake Key Takeaway: Local businesses are the backbone of Grayslake's economy and community life. Supporting them is vital for maintaining the town's unique character. In-Depth Insights: Economic and Social Impact:** Businesses on Center Street and throughout Grayslake contribute to civic organizations, schools, and local events. They create jobs, sponsor scholarships, and help fund community celebrations. Community Promotion:** The village actively promotes local businesses through events like the farmers market, craft beer fest, and seasonal festivals. Standing with Businesses During Controversy:** Mayor Davies addressed recent calls to boycott businesses over unrelated village decisions, urging residents to support, not punish, local entrepreneurs. Actionable Advice: For Residents:** Shop local whenever possible. Attend community events and patronize businesses that give back. For Business Owners:** Engage with the community through sponsorships and partnerships. Communicate openly with customers about your role in the community. 4. Open Spaces and Connectivity: Enhancing Quality of Life Key Takeaway: Grayslake's commitment to open spaces, trails, and bike paths enriches residents' lives and supports environmental stewardship. In-Depth Insights: Nature Trail and Environmental Management:** The downtown nature trail not only offers recreation but also manages water flow through the Mill Creek Drainage District. Recent enhancements include planting 300 trees and adding amenities like the "Gilmore Girls gazebo." Expanding Bike Paths:** Grayslake boasts one of the region's most extensive bike path networks. New connections, such as the path from Lake Street train station to Allegheny Park, improve safety and accessibility. Collaboration with state and local officials was key to securing funding and approvals. Actionable Advice: For Municipalities:** Invest in green infrastructure that serves both recreational and environmental purposes. Prioritize connectivity to make walking and biking safe and convenient. For Residents:** Explore local trails and parks. Participate in community clean-up and tree-planting events. 5. Smart Growth and Zoning: Balancing Progress with Community Values Key Takeaway: Zoning and comprehensive planning are essential tools for guiding responsible development while preserving Grayslake's character. In-Depth Insights: Zoning Framework:** The village sets zoning districts (residential, commercial, industrial) but does not select specific businesses. Property owners and developers propose projects that must comply with zoning and village ordinances. Community Input:** The comprehensive plan was recently updated with input from residents, business owners, and other stakeholders. This plan guides future growth, ensuring it aligns with community values and needs. Actionable Advice: For Local Governments:** Engage the community in planning processes. Regularly review and update zoning ordinances to reflect changing needs. For Residents:** Stay informed about local development proposals. Participate in public hearings and provide constructive feedback. 6. Navigating Controversy: The Data Center Development Key Takeaway: Major developments, like the proposed data center in south Grayslake, require careful communication and fact-based dialogue. In-Depth Insights: Project Background:** The data center has been in planning for years, with extensive public hearings and approvals. It is expected to generate up to $50 million annually in tax revenue at full buildout. Community Concerns:** National attention and local debate have highlighted the need for clear, accessible information. The village created an FAQ website and encourages residents to ask questions directly. Respectful Discourse:** Mayor Davies stresses the importance of respectful, fact-based conversations and discourages divisive actions like business boycotts. Actionable Advice: For Leaders:** Proactively address concerns with transparent, factual information. Create dedicated resources (e.g., FAQ pages) to answer common questions. For Residents:** Seek information from official sources. Engage in civil discussions and avoid spreading misinformation. 7. Celebrating Community: Events that Unite Grayslake Key Takeaway: Community events are vital for fostering unity, celebrating heritage, and creating lasting memories. In-Depth Insights: Signature Events:** The 250th anniversary drone show, Summer Nights, tree lighting ceremony, and Taste of Grayslake are highlights of the town's social calendar. These events draw large crowds and showcase Grayslake's vibrant spirit. Honoring Service:** Memorial Day ceremonies, featuring local leaders and Gold Star families, reinforce the community's values and gratitude. Actionable Advice: For Event Organizers:** Plan inclusive events that appeal to diverse interests and age groups. Partner with local businesses and organizations to maximize impact. For Residents:** Attend and volunteer at community events. Invite friends and neighbors to participate and build connections. 8. Expert Advice: Actionable Tips for Community Leaders Drawing from Mayor Davies' experience and the podcast discussion, here are nuanced, actionable tips for effective community leadership: Prioritize Fiscal Health:** Maintain a balanced budget and avoid unnecessary debt. Invest in projects that offer long-term value, not just short-term gains. Communicate with Intention:**
If life keeps speeding up and the demands keep stacking up (kids, parents, work, your own busy brain) then this one's for you. In this episode I interview speaker, writer and self-development expert Lily Silverton about her book Prioritize This: A Practical Guide for Thriving in a World That Won't Slow Down. We dig into three chapters that land hardest for the midlife squeezed middle: stress, overwhelm, and procrastination and some practical, brain-based tools for each. Lily is candid about her own experiences navigating the combination of a seriously ill father and young children, and why she has no time for self-help advice written for people with no heed for the demands of real life. We discuss: The two most robust, evidence-backed interventions — movement and social connection. Building your own bespoke stress toolkit (the "pick and mix", not the prescriptive programme) SITs and SATs: stress-inducing vs stress-alleviating thoughts, and turning the dial down on catastrophising The multitasking myth — why it's really task switching, and what each switch costs you Three questions to cut through overwhelm Procrastination as emotional management, not time management - aka "what feeling am I avoiding?" AI, the hamster wheel, and whether technology will actually save us time... Resources and Links: Lily's books: Prioritize This and The Priorities Method journal Exercises and downloads at the Prioritize This website: https://www.prioritisethis.com/ Instagram: @lily_silverton Website: lilysilverton.com Substack: https://prioritisethis.substack.com/ Don't forget you can find out how to work with me and the back archive of this podcast at www.thetripleshift.org/starthere - and if you enjoyed this episode please do write us a short review to help others discover Middling Along!
Hey there, lovely listeners! In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges of being a woman in business. We discuss how the cognitive load impacts us differently compared to men and why it's not just about being busy, but avoiding burnout. I share striking statistics on women's mental loads at home, caregiving, and the business world, highlighting how these influence decision fatigue, undervaluing time, and saying yes too often. We talk about practical strategies for delegation, setting boundaries, and lowering domestic standards. Remember, it's not about perfection but surviving and thriving in a system stacked against us. Your business can come first, it's okay to say no and prioritise yourself! **Key Takeaways** 1. Women carry a disproportionate mental load. Prioritize self-care. 2. Undervaluing your time leads to burnout. Charge your worth. 3. Delegate tasks at home and in business to lighten your load. 4. Boundaries aren't selfish; they're necessary for mental health. 5. One action can ripple positively. Start by saying yes to help.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather Younger. Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather Younger. Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Heather Younger. Founder and CEO of a leading employee engagement and workplace culture consulting firm:
Have you ever felt like you signed up for one thing... only to find yourself on a completely different path? Maybe you thought a challenge would last a few weeks, but it turned into months. Maybe you expected life to move in one direction, and suddenly everything changed. In this episode, Bonnie shares a remarkable story about a race that went unexpectedly off course—and the surprising lesson it taught her about trusting God through uncertainty. You'll learn one of the most important keys to emotional wellness and resilience during difficult seasons based on research in psychology—and it may surprise you. If you're facing a setback, disappointment, delay, health challenge, or season of unexpected change, this episode will encourage you to keep moving forward with Jesus one step at a time.Key Takeaways— What to do when life doesn't go according to plan— Why unexpected detours don't mean you're on the wrong path— How to keep moving forward when a challenge lasts longer than expected— The difference between resilience and simply trying harder— Why support and connection are essential for emotional wellness— How asking for prayer can strengthen you during difficult seasons— A simple soul care practice to help you stop running aloneBreath PrayerInhale: Let us run with enduranceExhale: Looking to JesusScripture"Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith." Hebrews 12:1–2→ CNN: "9-year-old accidentally won a 10K race"https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/01/us/runner-misses-turn-wins-race-trnd → Free Devotional Gift Download your free devotional: Bonnie’s FREE “Find Your Joy with Jesus: A 4-Day Devotional.”https://thebonniegray.com/findyourjoydevotional/Prioritize self-care the Jesus way and experience rest, renewal, and encouragement for your soul. → Take Bonnie's Soul Care Courses: Breathe Joy with Jesus:Create Happy Wellness Rhythms to Cultivate Joy with God's PromisesRegister at https://thebonniegray.com/soulcareschool/ → Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for instant calm at Bonnie's Soul Care Store Watch YouTube Devotionals:https://youtube.com/thebonniegray Bestselling Books by Bonnie:https://amzn.to/3NpVYQd Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What should you prioritize when buying a house? Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors breaks down the most common home buyer questions and the answers that actually make a difference.In this video, Abby Cribbs of May Group Realtors at RE/MAX of Grand Rapids answers the most common questions she gets from home buyers: what to prioritize when buying a house, why pre-approval matters before you start shopping, how to understand closing costs, the difference between needs vs. wants, what the hardest part of buying a home really is, and exactly what to do (and not do) during showings. Whether you're a first-time buyer or returning to the market, this is a practical guide to navigating the process with confidence.Who is this video for?This is especially helpful for first-time home buyers, anyone who's felt overwhelmed by the process, or buyers who want to go in prepared.Video Chapters0:00 — Introduction0:25 — What to prioritize when buying a house0:53 — Get pre-approved before you start shopping1:25 — Learn the purchase process upfront1:50 — Understanding closing costs2:30 — Needs vs. wants: making your list2:58 — The hardest part of buying a home3:33 — What to do (and not do) at showings4:21 — Final advice & next stepsIf you're thinking about buying a home and have questions, reach out. Our team would love to help guide you through the process.
In this episode, Neil challenges the mainstream narrative that the ultimate reward for hard work is escaping on a vacation. Reflecting on a recent trip to Japan and China, Neil explains why stepping completely away from his daily routines often causes him more stress than relaxation. He introduces the concept of the N1 Study, the idea that your life is a unique, ongoing experiment in human happiness where you are the sole participant. KEY TAKEAWAYS Redesign your reality: Build a daily life and business structure that is so enjoyable you don't constantly feel the need to escape from it. Shift your focus: Recognize the energizing difference between working on your business versus grinding in your business. Embrace the N1 Study: Treat your life as a personalized experiment where the primary metric for success is discovering what brings you happiness. Capture fleeting inspiration: Always keep a notebook or travel journal handy to record ideas the moment they strike. Prioritize personal fulfillment: Stop distorting your goals and schedules to meet the traditional expectations of others; ensure that you are pleasing at least yourself. QUOTES "If the best thing you can think of is taking a couple of weeks off from your life in the everyday sense, then you've built your life back to front." "You should plan and construct your everyday life in such a way that you're having so much fun, you don't want to take time off." "Ideas are shy and skittish. So when you have one, welcome it, make space for it and write it down before it runs away giggling to itself." "Your own life is an ongoing study with a single participant. We'll call this an N1 study." "Please at least yourself. Don't distort yourself to please another person." VALUABLE RESOURCES www.Neilcowmeadow.com info@neilcowmeadow.com HOST BIO Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years' experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil's invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
Michael McFaul examines the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre and the subsequent American policy of reaching out to the Chinese Communist Party with an open hand. McFaul critiques the Bush administration's decision to prioritize balancing against the Soviets over human rights, suggesting a "dual track" approach would have been more effective. While Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms spurred unprecedented growth, the Western theory that economic modernization would inevitably lead to democratization proved false. Today, China remains a highly successful economy ruled by a dictatorship, highlighting the complexities of decoupling values from commercial interests. (2)1905
Caleb interviews Sam Fink, the young owner of Avid Landscapes. The conversation highlights Fink's professional evolution from a childhood lawn mower to a business owner focused on high-end planting and design. Throughout the episode, the two men discuss the transformative impact of mentorship, industry coaching, and professional networking on their careers. They address common operational struggles, such as the difficulty of saying no to unsuitable projects and the importance of meticulous job documentation. Key Takeaways: Stop being a "chronic yes man" and start declining projects or requests that do not align with your primary goals or ideal client profile. Prioritize investing in mentorship and high-level peer groups over traditional education if you want to accelerate your practical business knowledge. Create written standard operating procedures and use job documentation tools to provide clarity for your team and protect your business from liability. Practice extreme discipline with digital distractions by identifying and slaying the "dragons" like social media that pull you away from your work. Implement 90-day sprints and use a physical calendar to track daily wins in order to build momentum toward your long-term objectives. Connect with Auman Landscape
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FAT LOSS GUIDE- www.colossusfitness.com1- Eat MindfullyPay attention to what and how much you're eating. Avoid distractions like watching TV or using your phone while eating. Chew your food slowly and savor each bite.2- EAT BETTER FOOD!!!Prioritize protein, eat enough fibre & drink lots of water3- Understand the difference between tolerable and intolerable hungerTolerable Hunger: You're hungry, but still in control. You can focus, function normally, and wait until your next meal.Intolerable Hunger: Hunger is consuming your thoughts. You're irritable, distracted, and likely to overeat when food becomes available.4- Get rid of the liquid/empty/garbage caloriesFill up with more low calorie5- Have regular consistent meals & be in a reasonable deficitAs Huberman says, “eat like an adult.”Eating regular, balanced meals and snacks can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent extreme hunger, which can lead to overeating.6- Manage Stress & Get Enough SleepLack of sleep can disrupt hunger hormones, leading to increased appetite. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.Listed points:Thanks for listening! We genuinely appreciate every single one of you listening.➢Follow us on instagram @colossusfit➢Apply to get your Polished Physique: https://colossusfitness.com/
In this episode, Dr. Thomas Hemingway shares the Truth about Metabolism, what the Data Actually Shows, and it's likely not what you've heard because most people and doctors think our metabolism slows down as we age. The data says differently. And he explains how you can reverse this and get your metabolism back, running stronger, smoother and cleaner than ever before. Have a Listen and Share with a Friend!**Free PDF: "How to Optimize your Metabolism in 7 Easy Steps." Inside the PDF, we pull back the curtain on how to actually get your metabolism Super-charger and running better than ever before.*And, in my new Performance, and Longevity medical practice we specialize in turning back your biological age and OPTIMIZING HORMONES so you can feel a decade or more younger so you can do the things you want to do that you thought were no longer possible due to your age. Join the waitlist here!*Don't wait to Prioritize your health, Start Today with the Simple and Powerful Steps detailed in my Best-selling book, PREVENTABLE.*ACCESS my FREE workshop, "GET 10 Years Younger, Stronger, and Sharper" How to turn back your biological age 10-20 years so you can do the things you want to do that you no longer thought possible due to your age. Perform at your best and live your best life!Join my Free Masterclass on Midlife Hormones, "Why You Don't Feel like Yourself anymore and What to Do about it!"JET LAG Survival Guide. Free PDF!*GET DIRECT ACCESS to DR. HEMINGWAY in these AMAZING COURSES!**Free Resource: "The 7 lab tests your doctor likely is not checking and could be the key to why you don't feel your best." *Don't Forget to SHARE with a Friend and please drop a Review:) It means the world!Mahalo and Aloha andTo your health,
STRONGER BONES LIFESTYLE: REVERSING THE COURSE OF OSTEOPOROSIS NATURALLY
In this eye-opening conversation, Debi Robinson and Dr. John Neustadt expose a fundamental flaw in how we approach bone health: we've been focusing on bone density instead of actual fracture risk.Drawing from 20+ years of research and clinical practice, Dr. Neustadt reveals that only four nutrients have been proven in clinical trials to reduce fractures—calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K2 (MK-4 specifically), and magnesium. He challenges the one-size-fits-all approach to supplementation and explains why popular supplements like MK-7 and strontium fall short of their marketing claims.The episode deep-dives into why bone density tests are poor predictors of fracture risk, how supplement companies mislead consumers with marketing claims that don't align with clinical data, and the critical role of gut health, sleep, hormones, and lifestyle in fracture prevention.Most importantly, Debi and Dr. Neustadt provide actionable, evidence-based strategies that women can implement immediately to actually protect their bones—without fear-based messaging.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN✓ Why bone density scores are not reliable predictors of fracture risk✓ The 4 nutrients with clinical trial evidence for fracture reduction (and the doses that actually work)✓ Why MK-7 vitamin K2 doesn't improve bone strength (and why MK-4 does)✓ How to assess YOUR individual calcium needs (most women are over-supplementing)✓ The vitamin D target range for optimal fracture protection✓ Why strontium supplements mislead consumers (and the hidden risks)✓ The role of melatonin receptors in bone health and sleep deprivation's link to fractures✓ How gut health directly impacts bone strength✓ The importance of serotonin, melatonin, and the gut-bone axis✓ HRT and testosterone replacement as part of a comprehensive bone health strategy✓ How to evaluate supplement companies and ensure they have fracture outcome data✓ Red flags when choosing bone health supplements✓ The gap between conventional medicine's approach (DEXA + medication) and integrative bone health✓ Why doctors are confused about osteoporosis (and how to advocate for yourself)ACTION STEPSGet your vitamin D tested. Aim for 30–44 ng/mL for optimal fracture protection (different from immune health recommendations).Assess your dietary calcium intake before adding supplements. If you're eating well, you may only need 400 mg as a supplement, not the standard 1,200 mg recommendation.Switch MK-7 supplements to MK-4. If you're taking a vitamin K2 supplement, verify it's MK-4 at 45 mg per day in divided doses. MK-7 doesn't reduce fractures.Check your supplement labels for strontium. If it's there, especially if the company markets it as "proven to improve bone density," consider switching to a formula without it.Prioritize gut health. Work with a practitioner to run stool tests if you have bloating, constipation, postnasal drip, or other GI symptoms. Gut inflammation accelerates bone loss.Track your sleep quality. Sleep deprivation is linked to 17% of fractures. If you're sleeping less than 6 hours nightly, prioritize this.Ask supplement companies the right questions:"Do you have fracture outcome data from clinical trials?""Will you provide a certificate of analysis showing purity and potency?""What guarantee do you offer?"Evaluate your medications. Check with your doctor: Are any of your current prescriptions contributing to bone loss? (SSRIs, certain blood pressure meds, proton pump inhibitors, corticosteroids, etc.)Consider HRT or bioidentical hormone replacement, especially if you're post-menopausal. Research shows a 40% reduction in osteoporotic fracture risk with appropriate hormone therapy.Build lifestyle foundations: Prioritize whole-food nutrition, strength training, stress management, and community connection. Oxytocin (released through physical contact) supports bone health.RESOURCES & LINKSDr. John Neustadt's Website: nbihealth.com and book Fracture-Proof Your Bones: A Comprehensive Guide to OsteoporosisDebi's website: https://debirobinson.comHealthy Gut Healty Bones Program: https://debirobinson.com/healthy-gut-healthy-bones-program-v2/Join the Community: https://debirobinson.com/the-stronger-bones-lifestyle-community/Yoga Therapy MasterClass: https://debirobinson.com/yoga-therapy-for-bones-health-mc/28-Day Stronger Bones Method: https://debirobinson.com/28-day-stronger-bonesmorning-method/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debirobinsonwellness/Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@debirobinsonwellness/DEBI'S TAKEAWAY"Fracture-proofing your bones isn't about chasing a higher DEXA score. It's about building the internal biochemical balance that actually prevents fractures. You have the research, you have the tools, and you have the power to take control of your bone health naturally. Use that power."
Juan Carlos González was elected president of Metro in May, and then appointed to serve out the remainder of the previous president’s term. He made history in 2018 becoming the youngest member and first Latino to serve on the Metro council. His priorities for the council are creating more affordable housing and jobs in the region. Metro has begun what it calls Future 50, a planning process designed to shape the metro area through 2077. We sit down with González to hear more about his priorities and vision for the next 50 years.
In California you don't need an ID to vote, ballot harvesting is completely legal, and ballots signed with a smiley face might be counted as valid. Bridget Phetasy breaks down how the LA mayor's race went sideways, why Spencer Pratt went from second place to out, and why none of this is a conspiracy theory — it's just what happens when you make the sketchiest possible voting practices legal and then dare anyone to question it. #ElectionFraud #BallotHarvesting #DumpsterFire #BridgetPhetasy Topics covered: California ballot harvesting, LA mayor race 2026, Spencer Pratt, Nithya Raman, Karen Bass, California voter fraud, mail-in ballots, California voting laws, election integrity, ballot fraud legal
Rules are good, but when you emphasize them too much, it's not healthy for your relationship. John and Danny discuss how they've learned too many guidelines in parenting isn't a good thing. Then, Jim Daly and Dr. Randy Schroeder explain why we need to focus more on the relationship with our kids than on rules. Find us online at focusonthefamily.com/parentingpodcast. Or call 1-800-A-FAMILY. Receive the book Simple Habits for Effective Parenting for your donation of any amount! Take the 7 Traits of Effective Parenting Assessment Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting Counseling Consultation and Referrals Building Your Discipline Toolkit From a Biblical Perspective Support This Show! If you enjoyed listening to the Focus on Parenting Podcast, please give us your feedback.
Caleb emphasizes the critical role of clarity in business operations, arguing that detailed communication with both clients and staff directly correlates to increased profitability. He also reflects on the importance of personal discipline, specifically regarding time management and avoiding digital distractions when working alone. Throughout the discussion, he shares honest anecdotes about leadership errors and the logistical challenges of running a high-volume contracting firm. Key Takeaways: Increase your project's value and pricing by providing extreme clarity and granular detail in your client communications and walkthroughs. Prioritize using machinery as a force multiplier over manual labor to protect your revenue per hour and ensure business profitability. Develop laser focus during work hours by eliminating digital distractions and being mindful of your productivity habits when you are working alone. Commit to getting eight hours of sleep consistently to significantly improve your leadership performance and overall physical health. Use photo documentation at every stage of a project to eliminate communication errors and provide a factual record for clients and team members. Connect with Auman Landscape
Phil Le-Brun: The Octopus Organization Phil Le-Brun is an executive in residence at Amazon Web Services and a former corporate VP and international CIO at the McDonald's Corporation. He is a sought-after speaker and has been featured in Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and The Guardian. He is the co-author with Jana Werner of The Octopus Organization: A Guide to Thriving in a World of Continuous Transformation (Amazon, Bookshop)*. Most of us have gone through some version of a reorg. A lot of leaders have also implemented their own reorgs. Sometimes they work. Many times, they don't. In this conversation, Phil and I discuss what goes wrong with reorgs and how we can do better. Key Points Organizations traditionally looked like the tin man from The Wizard of Oz: perfectly planned, many interchangeable parts, not flexible. An octopus organization adapts, works independently to serve the larger whole, and is innately curious. A reorg that starts with an org chart misses the complex organic connections you are unlikely to fully understand. Prioritize structural stability while building internal flexibility. Nurture the complex informal human networks that deliver value. Be honest about objectives and communicate a reorg early. Engage people by starting with smaller-scale change. Clarify the problem to be solved instead of the structural “answer.” Resources Mentioned The Octopus Organization: A Guide to Thriving in a World of Continuous Transformation by Phil Le-Brun and Jana Werner (Amazon, Bookshop)* Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes How to Get the Ideal Team Player, with Patrick Lencioni (episode 301) How to Approach a Reorg, with Claire Hughes Johnson (episode 621) How to Help Employees Handle Tough Moments, with Anthony Klotz (episode 777) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.
https://teachhoops.com/ If you have signed a child up for youth sports recently, you have likely felt the absolute financial squeeze of the modern youth athletic complex. What used to be a low-cost, neighborhood-centered activity has mutated into a multi-billion-dollar travel industry. For parents, managing the family budget alongside a child's athletic ambitions can feel like trying to survive a continuous, high-pressure trapping defense. This breakdown pulls back the curtain on the real financial architecture of youth sports today, analyzing where the money goes, the true data behind the "Return on Investment" (ROI), and how parents can navigate the logistics without breaking the bank. The financial strain of youth sports rarely comes from a single, isolated cost. Instead, it is a steady accumulation of operational fees that hit your bank account throughout the calendar year. Club and Registration Fees: This is the baseline "buy-in." It covers facility rentals, league insurance, and administrative overhead. For competitive travel teams, this baseline fee routinely ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 per year, per child. The Hidden "Travel Tax": This is the ultimate wallet-drainer that catches parents off guard. Weekend tournaments require gas, out-of-state hotel stays, restaurant meals, and front-door gate fees that can quickly add an extra $2,000 to $5,000 annually to the ledger. Equipment and Apparel: The cost of specialized gear—whether it is a high-end composite bat, custom soccer cleats, or tech-infused athletic trackers like a WHOOP pod—depletes baseline capital rapidly, especially as growing kids cycle through sizes every single season. Many families view these steep travel expenses not as entertainment costs, but as a calculated financial investment toward a future college athletic scholarship. However, looking at the objective data in the "Truth Room" reveals a massive statistical disconnect: You do not have to bankrupt your family budget to give your child an elite, high-character athletic experience. You can optimize the logistics by implementing a few intentional constraints: A local league that offers high-intensity practices and high Rep Density drills will develop a child's skill set faster than a travel team that spends eight hours in a car just to play three chaotic games in another state. Prioritize coaching quality over the team's travel itinerary. If you are involved in organizing local youth events, push your club to ditch outdated cash boxes at the entryway. Transitioning to streamlined digital ticketing platforms or flat-rate weekend passes dramatically increases the entry flow speed, removes accounting variance, and reduces immediate friction for arriving families. The ultimate goal of youth sports is to turn young athletes into resilient, high-character leaders—not to burn out the family's financial resources or emotional energy by mid-July. Coach's Note: "The value of youth sports isn't found in a trophy won at an expensive out-of-state convention center. It's found in the resilience equity a kid builds when they learn how to handle a tough loss, communicate through physical exhaust, and look a coach in the eye during a hard correction. Keep the budget disciplined, protect the family unit, and keep the focus on human development." Are you currently trying to budget for a highly competitive travel team layout for an older child looking to get noticed by scouts, or are you trying to find affordable, local community options to keep a younger child active and organized? 1. Breaking Down the Balance Sheet: Where the Money Goes2. The Statistical Reality of the "College Scholarship" ROIThe Metric / RealityNCAA Statistical DataThe Hard TakeawayHigh School to NCAA TransitionOnly about 7% of high school athletes make it to an NCAA roster.The overwhelming majority of travel players will finish their athletic careers in high school.Division I Roster SpotLess than 2% of high school athletes play at the Division I level.Competition for elite roster spots is exceptionally fierce.Full athletic scholarshipsHeadcount sports are rare; most NCAA sports utilize fractional/partial scholarships.Families often spend more money on youth travel sports than they ever recoup in college tuition discounts.3. The "Muck and Grind" Logistics Solution: How to Reduce the FrictionEmphasize Activity Density Over Travel DistanceStreamline Tournament TicketingProtect the Balance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
(5) Michael Toth examines Exxon Mobil's relocation to Texas, which was opposed by proxy firms ISS and Glass Lewis. Toth argues these advisory firms prioritize ideological ESG agendas over actual shareholder value and lack transparency regarding their motives.
Preview for Later Today: Mary Kissel addresses the Trump administration's stance on NATO, stressing that support remains strong for Ukraine. She urges European capitals to prioritize defense while commending Ukraine's impressive advancements in domestic military industrial innovation.1903 BRUSSELS