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West Point class of 2002 spouse, Veronica Jaffett joins Dane Neal on WGN Radio. Hear as Veronica shares her unique path to USMA with her husband, former cadet and current faculty member at USMA. Coming from Hawaii, the lure of love and a life in the Army took her to West Point and then around […]
West Point class of 2002 spouse, Veronica Jaffett joins Dane Neal on WGN Radio. Hear as Veronica shares her unique path to USMA with her husband, former cadet and current faculty member at USMA. Coming from Hawaii, the lure of love and a life in the Army took her to West Point and then around […]
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Gabe Smith is a leadership strategist and organizational development expert who blends military discipline, pastoral insight, and business acumen to drive transformational growth. As the founder of Altitude Consulting, LLC, he coaches leaders to navigate challenges and achieve strategic clarity. A West Point graduate and Ranger-qualified Infantry Officer, Gabe served eight years in the Army, including leading operations in Mosul, Iraq, and during the 9/11 Pentagon response. Post-military, he held leadership roles at Forest Hill Church, Mesa Global, and New City Church, managing budgets and driving organizational growth. Gabe also co-founded the nonprofit East Mountain in South Africa and Pangea, focusing on leadership development. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, he is dedicated to helping leaders clarify purpose and create lasting impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Gabe about: The Vision Behind Altitude Consulting: Transforming Leadership with Purpose Gabe's Journey: From Army Infantry Officer to leadership strategist and coach. Defining Moments: How military and pastoral experiences shaped his coaching philosophy. Innovative Methods: Leadership lessons inspired by French culinary fundamentals. Collaborative Ventures: Partnering with his wife Janet in real estate and developing unique methodologies with Nicole Eunice. Purpose-Driven Focus: Helping leaders and entrepreneurs achieve clarity and growth. Looking Ahead: Expanding Altitude Consulting's impact on purpose-driven leadership. Timestamps: 01:10 Gabe's Entrepreneurial Journey 02:06 Janet's Real Estate Ventures 04:27 The Birth of Altitude Consulting 05:37 Gabe's Coaching Philosophy 10:51 From Infantry to Chaplaincy 14:47 Leadership Development in South Africa 17:20 Future Goals and Challenges 24:07 How You Can Help Connect with Gabe LinkedIn Altitude Consulting If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Gabe Smith for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in Tampa on January 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Michael Mandarino is a seasoned financial advisor with over 20 years of experience in investment advisory and financial planning. As the owner of 123 Investing LLC and CEO of Soterios LLC, an SDVOSB, he specializes in faith-based investing, tax-advantaged strategies, retirement planning, and charitable giving solutions. Michael is dedicated to serving transitioning military officers, religious organizations, charities, and small businesses, offering expertise in planned giving and biblical-responsible investing. A West Point graduate and former U.S. Army Platoon Leader, Michael collaborates with CPAs and Enrolled Agents to ensure comprehensive financial oversight. His work has been featured in Proactive Advisor Magazine, and he educates others about investing through his YouTube channel. MIchaal Mandarino's Securities & Investment Advisory Services are offered through G.A. Repple & Company, a Registered Broker/Dealer & Investment Advisor Member FINRA & SIPC, 101 Normandy Road Casselberry, FL 32707 T. 407-339-9090. The Vision Behind Faith-Driven Finance: Turning Experience into Purposeful Wealth Strategies Michael's Journey: From West Point graduate and Army Platoon Leader to financial advisor in 2002. A Faith-Driven Mission: How a pivotal moment in 2012 led to specializing in biblical-responsible investing. Serving Veterans: Helping service members navigate military benefits and transitions. Expanding Expertise: Assisting high-net-worth clients with complex tax strategies and capital gains planning. Educational Impact: Growing a YouTube channel to 55,000+ subscribers with compliant financial content. Future Growth: Mentoring junior advisors and acquiring books of business to expand his practice. Timestamps: 00:47 Michael's Background and Career Journey 02:37 Finding a Niche in Financial Advising 05:35 Faith and Business: A Unique Approach 09:48 Short and Long Term Goals 13:11 The YouTube Endeavor 19:47 Challenges and Support Connect with Michael LinkedIn Facebook YouTube 123-Investing Email: mmandarino@123-investing.com Phone or text: (813) 710 - 4123 If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Michael Mandarino for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Michael Euperio - Michael is the Chief Operating Officer at Redeem Investments, overseeing operations for a firm specializing in commercial real estate and renewable energy projects. His military background has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing discipline, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Michael values strong teams and strategic partnerships, which are central to his work at Redeem. As a founder and managing principal at K2DM Capital, he focuses on multifamily real estate investment. His approach prioritizes collaboration, integrity, and innovative strategies to achieve shared success. Christian Catron - Christian Catron has over 20 years of healthcare experience and has transitioned into real estate investment, specializing in strategic redevelopments and adaptive reuse projects in high-growth markets. As a co-founder of a visionary real estate firm, he collaborates with Michael, a seasoned professional in high-tech and private equity. Together, they transform underutilized properties in the Texas Triangle into high-demand assets aligned with emerging market trends. Drawing on their backgrounds as West Point graduates and veterans, Christian and Michael emphasize integrity, excellence, and strategic partnerships. Christian's expertise lies in navigating complex transactions and maximizing returns through innovative renovations. He welcomes connections with professionals passionate about real estate innovation, healthcare, or veteran initiatives. Transforming Real Estate: Michael and Christian's Vision for Purpose-Driven Projects Shared Vision: How Michael and Christian's paths crossed at a West Point real estate conference. Innovative Strategy: Repurposing vacant offices for medical use based on market trends. Notable Projects: Converting an office building into a Marriott and a Best Buy into a medical center. Mission-Driven Growth: The role of relationships in their sustainable real estate approach. Get Involved: Opportunities for brokers, investors, and developers to join their mission. Timestamps: 00:27 How We Met and Became Business Partners 03:50 Our Real Estate Journey and Redeem Investments 05:10 Pivoting to New Opportunities 07:43 Case Studies and Success Stories 21:47 Future Goals and Vision 24:32 How You Can Help and Get Involved Connect with Michael & Chris : LinkedIn - Michael E. LinkedIn - Christian Catron https://redeeminvestments.com/ If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Michael and Christian for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Sean Mullin is an award-winning filmmaker known for his feature film debut, AMIRA & SAM, which won multiple film festivals and was distributed by Drafthouse Films. He co-wrote and co-produced SEMPER FI with Oscar-nominated director Henry-Alex Rubin, and produced ALLEGIANCE, both of which saw theatrical releases. Sean directed the documentary KINGS OF BEER and IT AIN'T OVER, the highest-grossing theatrical documentary of 2023, about baseball legend Yogi Berra. A former Army officer and first responder on 9/11, Sean holds an MFA from Columbia University and a B.S. from West Point. He is represented by UTA and runs Five By Eight Productions in Los Angeles. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Sean about: Filmmaking with Sean Mullen: From West Point to filmmaking Family Influence: How Sean's entrepreneurial roots shaped his creative vision. Notable Projects: It Ain't Over, the West Point rugby doc, and working with Buzz Aldrin's family. Building Five by Eight Productions: Growing a successful production company. Creative Wisdom: Sean's advice on chasing passion and making it in the film world Timestamps: 00:08 Sean's Unique Career Path 01:59 Early Influences and Creative Upbringing 04:24 Military Service and Transition to Filmmaking 08:18 First Feature Film: Amira and Sam 10:56 Documentary Journey: Kings of Beer and It Ain't Over 15:40 Current Projects and Teaching 25:07 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers Connect with Sean LinkedIn Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Sean Mullin for joining me this week. Until next time! - Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ With 33 years of experience, David Chepauskas specializes in solving problems and maximizing opportunities for senior Wall Street professionals, business owners, executives, and retirees. He is a partner at Summit Financial LLC, a leading independent financial planning firm serving the NJ Tri-State area. David is passionate about working with veterans and service academy graduates, leveraging his network to help them achieve their business goals and build meaningful relationships. His expertise spans retirement, estate, insurance, investment, and income tax planning. David's goal is to provide tailored financial strategies to meet the unique needs of his clients. He enjoys connecting people and fostering professional connections that lead to growth. David's deep knowledge and personal approach have made him a trusted advisor in his field. Show Notes: In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with David about: The Unique Focus of David's Firm: Tailored wealth-building strategies for academy graduates and veterans. Private Markets: The benefits of private equity, private credit, and private real estate, including higher returns and lower volatility. Portfolio Allocation: Why diversification is key to successful wealth management. Advanced Tax Strategies: Insights into tax-loss harvesting and direct indexing. Charitable Giving: Using philanthropy as a tool for managing high income and capital gains. Timestamps: 00:49 Introducing the Unique Approach of Summit Financial 04:02 Diving into Private Market Investments 09:52 Understanding Portfolio Allocation 14:42 The Benefits and Drawbacks of Private Investments 21:50 Exploring Tax Loss Harvesting Strategies 31:15 Charitable Giving and Estate Planning Connect with David : LinkedIn - David C. http://www.summitfinancial.com If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to David for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in Tampa on January 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Mike Bristol is a seasoned innovator with a legacy of excellence in defense, technology, and communications. A West Point graduate, he has held executive roles at organizations like Comtech Command & Control Technologies and Oracle Corporation. As Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Fairwinds Technologies, he built a thriving systems integrator, delivering secure communication solutions for the DoD and emergency management communities. Known for his entrepreneurial vision and expertise in government sales and program management, Mike now invests in and mentors entrepreneurs while enjoying golf, poker, and time with his eight children. His career reflects a relentless drive for growth and meaningful impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Mike about: Mike's Career Journey: From West Point to Executive Leadership Strategic Growth: Scaling a $24M government business unit into a $300M operation in 12 years. Entrepreneurial Leap: Founding Fairwinds Technologies and growing it to $144M before a successful exit. Leadership Philosophy: Belief in “nothing happens until the cash register rings,” highlighting the importance of sales. Team Building: Creating high-performing teams through performance reviews and metrics-driven meetings. Smart Hiring: Emphasizing hiring experts smarter than himself and fostering ego-free leadership. New Chapter: Transitioning from executive roles to investing and mentoring entrepreneurs. Commitment to Growth: Pursuing personal development through golf, poker, and continuous learning. Timestamps: 00:17 Mike's Journey to Retirement 01:20 Career Highlights and Achievements 04:11 Building a Saleable Company 09:24 Transition to Full-Time Investor 14:13 Philosophy and Key Insights 22:09 Personal Interests and Hobbies Connect with Michael LinkedIn mbristol1981@yahoo.com Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Mike Bristol for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in Tampa on Janary 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ Tom Aiello is a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in corporate and entrepreneurial ventures. A West Point graduate with an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, he has led marketing initiatives for major brands like McDonald's, Kenmore, and Craftsman. He held leadership roles at Monster Worldwide and Sears Holdings before founding MARCH Marketing, specializing in products for military and veteran families. In 2022, Tom launched Operation Good Boy, a military-inspired dog products company. He also serves as Chairperson of the Board for OnComms, a veteran-owned mobile telecommunications company. In this episode, we discuss: How Tom incorporates military principles and leadership strategies to marketing, advertising, and running a business. How his experience at a major advertising agency taught him valuable lessons about consumer psychology, integrated marketing, and turning client criticism into opportunities. How his personal experience caring for his sick dog showed him the parallels between the loyalty and selflessness of dogs and military service members, inspiring him to start a military-inspired pets products company, Operation Good Boy. Operation Good Boy's rapid growth from zero retail presence in 2023 to commitments for 3,000 stores by 2025, including major retailers like Walmart and Tractor Supply, driven by their premium supplement formulations and military-themed product line. Their strategic pivot from a subscription box model to allowing customers more control over their orders, which dramatically increased average order value and demonstrated the importance of "failing fast" and learning from customer feedback. The critical importance for consumer brands to have a presence on Amazon along with customer reviews for securing retail distribution deals, and how proper Amazon optimization requires specialized expertise and strategic investment. Operation Good Boy's mission to transform pet health in America through education and premium products, while giving back to military working dog organizations and veteran support initiatives. How Operation Good Boy leverages military precision in product development, partnering with an airborne ranger veterinarian to ensure their supplements, treats, and toys exceed market standards for quality and effectiveness. Connect with Tom LinkedIn Email: info@marchcorp.com March Marketing Operation Good Boy If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Tom Aiello for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ Want to join us in Tampa on Janary 28th? Visit: https://www.10xvets.com/events ____ "Fitness has always been an important part of my life as a former Green Beret and college athlete.. I didn't want to give that up." - Nick Perkins, USMA '12 Nick Perkins is a dynamic leader with a unique blend of military, entrepreneurial, and investment expertise. A former Green Beret, he spent nearly a decade leading high-stakes missions and diplomatic roles, earning multiple commendations. He co-founded The Operation Baby Foundation, a nonprofit that has awarded over $140K in grants to help military couples overcome infertility. Nick also founded Club Green, a first-of-its-kind holistic social club focused on wellness and connection. A Wharton MBA and two-time Penn Wharton Innovation Fund winner, he honed his private equity skills by developing strategic insights in the fertility sector. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, staying active, and exploring the outdoors with his wife, Emma. Today, Nick is focused on helping startups grow, especially in Chief of Staff roles, where his leadership and strategic vision leave a lasting impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Nick about: The Inspiration Behind Club Green: Turning a vision into a modern sport and social club. A Unique Offering: Blending gym, spa, lounge amenities, and indoor golf technology. Nick's Journey: From Green Beret to entrepreneur and founder of Club Green. Challenges and Wins: The realities of launching a first-of-its-kind concept. Looking Ahead: Upcoming milestones and future goals for Club Green. How to Get Involved: Ways to support, join, or connect with the community. Timestamps: 01:14 What is Club Green? 02:25 Target Audience and Market Positioning 06:12 Fitness and Golf Integration 08:05 Partnerships and Fitness Programs 12:39 Current Progress and Challenges 20:03 Future Vision and Expansion Plans Connect with Nick: LinkedIn Club Green Email: Nperk23@wharton.upenn.edu If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Nick Perkins for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
This special episode of The Resilient Life is packed with tradition, rivalry, and a guest who knows this topic inside and out. Ryan sits down with Connor Crehan, better known as Captain Cons from Barstool Sports. He's an Army veteran, content creator, podcaster, and a voice of Barstool Sports' wildly popular Zero Blog Thirty. Connor is one of the most passionate voices when it comes to military culture, sports, and, of course, the legendary Army-Navy football game.As a West Point graduate and former quarterback for the Black Knights, Captain Cons brings us an insider's perspective on one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in sports. Dive into the history, the pageantry, the stakes, and what this game means to service members and veterans across the country. Plus, hear some behind-the-scenes stories, insights on Army-Navy traditions, and why this matchup transcends football.CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast:Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media:Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion FoundationMEET Connor CrehanInstagram
Episode 2932 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature Medal of Honor recipient Army LTC Andre Lucas. Information featured in this episode comes from the USMA website. The humid air hung heavy over Fire Support Base Ripcord in Vietnam’s … Continue reading →
Are you a real estate investor in need of financing for your next investment property? If so, the Academy Fund has you covered! Whether you need short term financing for “fix-and-flip” projects, land development, or new construction or you need long term financing for single family or multi family rentals, we are your reliable financial partner. Our mission is to bridge the gaps often left by conventional banking institutions, making sure your real estate dreams become reality. And for accredited investors looking to earn purpose driven passive income while supporting military veteran real estate investors, the Academy Fund is the perfect opportunity. Our short term loans are powered by capital from investors like you, who receive monthly distributions. To learn more, visit AcademyFund.com. Are you ready to connect, grow, and have some serious fun? Reserve your spot now for our upcoming event at The Tampa Club in Tampa, Florida, on January 28th. Space is limited to just 30 participants, so act fast to secure your place. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and personal growth alongside like-minded individuals who share your values and ambitions. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit 10xvets.com/events. ____________ Don Grier is a seasoned technology executive with over 30 years of experience delivering innovative and impactful solutions for diverse clients and industries. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Wellness Leadership LLC, Don helps organizations achieve excellence while caring for their people. In this episode, we discuss: How Don's career evolved from West Point graduate and Army Captain to Managing Director at Accenture to eventually creating his company Wellness Leadership LLC His dramatic personal transformation story of losing 170 pounds in one year while maintaining a demanding executive travel schedule, sparked by a 3 AM fall outside his office. How he grew a new Accenture venture from zero to 1,000 people, building a delivery center and implementing critical eligibility determination software. His innovative approach to global project management, incorporating cultural awareness and wellness principles into traditional methodologies, including the development of his "Well-Led Project Framework." The importance of his "relationship map" methodology for project success, matching team members' strengths with stakeholder relationships to optimize communication and outcomes. His systematic approach to personal wellness transformation, built on five key pillars: tracking metrics, progressive fitness goals, maintaining a strong "why," prioritizing sleep, and having a consistent prayer and meditation practice. His commitment to building and nurturing community and accountability, demonstrated through his ongoing participation in his Weight Watchers community, doing volunteer work, and developing corporate wellness programs. Connect with Don: LinkedIn Wellness Leadership LLC Podcast: Change Well by Wellness Leadership LLC Book and App Recommendations: The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg Streaks - habit tracking app Halo - mindfulness and meditation app Special thanks to Don Grier for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Sean Corrigan was commissioned as a second lieutenant when he graduated from West Point in 1988. Within just a couple of years, he saw action in both Panama and Desert Storm. Soon after that he entered the world of special operations and served there for the remainder of his career, including combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and a harrowing assignment in Yemen.In this edition of "Veterans Chronicles," Col. Horrigan recounts what he learned as a young officer in those early conflicts, what was required physically and academically to succeed in special operations, and how his world quickly changed after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.He also takes into his missions to find and capture high-value enemy targets and rescue hostages during his time in Iraq, including the many considerations that factored into each of those daring missions.Corrigan also shares details about his service in Yemen and the threat posed to him and others at the U.S. embassy there just days after terrorist attacks killed Ambassador Chris Stevens and three others in Benghazi, Libya.Finally, Col. Corrigan explains his role as Director of Special Activities at U.S. Special Operations Command and the work he is doing now to honor special operators through the Special Operators Warrior Foundation.
In our episode with LTG Gilland we mentioned Shawn "Big Tires Rollin" Robertson as a future guest, and now he's here! Shawn is a paragon of fitness (consistent ACFT 600s, 2nd place in the European bodybuilding championship) who is also passionate about organizational psychology. He joined us for this conversation about the role of fitness in leader development and how leaders can enhance the performance culture of their organizations. MAJ Shawn Robertson is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He is married to his lovely wife, Maj Jordan Robertson (USAF) and they have three sons – Ezekiel (6), Ishvi (4), and Zachariah (2). Shawn was enlisted as an 88M before commissioning via the Green to Gold program through the University of Hawaii where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology. MAJ Robertson also holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University and a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. Upon completion of the Military Intelligence Basic Officer Leaders Course, he was assigned to the 173RD Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) at Vicenza, Italy. While there, he served as the Assistant Battalion Intelligence Officer for the 1st Battalion, 503RD Infantry Regiment (Airborne), HUMINT and SIGINT Platoon Leader in the Military Intelligence Company, and deployed with 1ST Battalion, 75TH Ranger Regiment as an individual augmentee in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel in Afghanistan, serving as one of the Deputy J2s. Following attendance at the Infantry Captain's Career Course at Fort Benning, Georgia, and the Signals Intelligence/Electronic Warfare course at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, MAJ Robertson was assigned to the National Security Agency, where he served as the Technical Production Operations Officer in the Army Technical Control and Analysis Element, and as the Bravo Company Commander, leading the National Security Agency's Special Operations Detachment in support of combat operations. In our episode with LTG Gilland a few weeks ago we mentioned Shawn "Big Tires Rollin'" Robertson as a future guest, and now he's here! Shawn is passionate about organizational psychology and developing leaders, but he's also incredibly fit (consistent ACFT 600s, 2nd place in the European bodybuilding championship). He joined us in this conversation to discuss how fitness fits into leadership development, and how leaders can improve the performance culture in their organizations. After completion of graduate school and the United States Military Academy's (USMA) Eisenhower Leader Development Program, MAJ Robertson served as the Tactical Officer for a Cadet Company, where he focused on leadership and character development. MAJ Robertson also served as the Aide-de-Camp for the Commanding General and Superintendent of USMA. MAJ Robertson is now serving as a Commander in the United States Army Special Operations Command.
Are you a real estate investor in need of financing for your next investment property? If so, the Academy Fund has you covered! Whether you need short term financing for “fix-and-flip” projects, land development, or new construction or you need long term financing for single family or multi family rentals, we are your reliable financial partner. Our mission is to bridge the gaps often left by conventional banking institutions, making sure your real estate dreams become reality. And for accredited investors looking to earn purpose driven passive income while supporting military veteran real estate investors, the Academy Fund is the perfect opportunity. Our short term loans are powered by capital from investors like you, who receive monthly distributions. To learn more, visit AcademyFund.com. Are you ready to connect, grow, and have some serious fun? Reserve your spot now for our upcoming event at The Tampa Club in Tampa, Florida, on January 28th. Space is limited to just 30 participants, so act fast to secure your place. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and personal growth alongside like-minded individuals who share your values and ambitions. To learn more and reserve your spot, visit 10xvets.com/events. _______ If you've ever worked on a really high performing team, it's just awesome. Everything seems easy. It's easier to come to work. Challenges seem easier. You're in a better mood when you go home." –Caleb Mancuso Caleb Mancuso is a Founding Partner at Ayres Advisory Partners, a strategic business consultancy that specializes in helping mid-size and privately-held companies build organizational success. Caleb's diverse professional experience spans roles in military intelligence, plant management, logistics, and operations leadership. As a former U.S. Army officer with over five years of service, Caleb held various leadership roles, including Intelligence Program Officer and Program Director. Caleb's mission is to assist business owners in achieving new levels of success by identifying employee talents, setting clear goals, fine tuning business strategy, and fostering team engagement. His unique blend of military discipline and business acumen makes him a valuable asset in guiding high-caliber teams and driving organizational success. Caleb is currently writing a book about building high-performing teams. In this episode, we discuss: How Caleb leveraged his experience from the Army to create his company Ayres Advisory Partners, which specializes in building high-performing teams. HIs experience serving as a Fire Detection Officer in the United Arab Emirates when ISIS took over a large portion of Iraq and Syria. The importance of role fit, as illustrated by the story of an E7 NCO who flourished in a new position during deployment. How he uses the Judgment Index™ tool to assess decision-making abilities and improve team performance and how it can be used by private equity and VC firms to screen potential investments and avoid "red flags" with founders. How to reduce employee turnover as exemplified by a health insurance company's success story. The value of partnerships and networking in business growth, particularly through programs like 10X Vets. Insights into writing a book, including setting a consistent writing schedule and knowing when to stop. Caleb's approach to goal-setting and his shot- and long-term visions for Ayres Advisory Partners. The challenges and opportunities of working with mid-sized, privately held companies Connect with Caleb LinkedIn caleb@ayresap.com Ayres Advisory Partners If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Caleb for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
During World War II, as many young men joined the military, many college basketball programs in the United States were suspended. The US Military Academy at West Point was one of the schools that continued its basketball program. Army's 1943 season was not a great season – but the 1944 season was spectacular. Against a backdrop of war, Army delivered a perfect season and then many of the key players on that team went from basketball to the battlefield. To discuss this unique team, the MacArthur Memorial Podcast hosted Jim Noles, author of Undefeated: From Basketball to Battle: West Point's Perfect Season 1944. Have a comment about this episode? Send us a text message! (Note: we can only read the texts, we can't reply) Follow us on:Twitter: @MacArthur1880; @AEWilliamsClarkFacebook: @MacArthurMemorialwww.macarthurmemorial.org
Our guest for this episode has been on Active Duty for over 34 years, with much of that spent in Special Operations, and he's still scoring 600s on his ACFTs. Our wide ranging conversation covers everything from how he's maintained a high level of physical performance across his long career to the role that physicality plays in developing young leaders. We even dig into ideas for improving the health and fitness culture across our country. Lieutenant General Steve Gilland commissioned into the United States Army upon graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1990. As an Infantry Officer, he served in a variety of tactical assignments in Air Assault, Armor, Mechanized Infantry, Ranger, and Special Operations units. He has served in the 24th Infantry Division, the 2nd Infantry Division, the 75th Ranger Regiment, the United States Army Special Operations Command, the 1st Cavalry Division, the 101st Airborne Division, the 2nd Infantry Division, the III Armored Corps, and the United States Military Academy. Lieutenant General Gilland has commanded at every level up to Division and participated in numerous operational deployments to the Middle East, Africa, and Afghanistan. Prior to assuming duties as USMA's 61st Superintendent, he served as the Deputy Commanding General (Maneuver) of III Armored Corps, Fort Hood (known as Fort Cavazos since 2023), Texas. Lieutenant General Gilland holds a Master's Degree in Military Operational Art and Science from the Air Force Command and Staff College. He has the long list of awards you would expect, plus he has earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Expert Infantryman's Badge, Ranger Tab, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and - notably less common than the rest - the Military Free Fall Jumpmaster Badge. Lieutenant General Gilland has been happily married to his West Point classmate Betsy, for more than 33 years. Team Gilland are the proud parents of three children.
“I think people can't give their own personal agency away. I talk to a lot of veterans that kind of throw up their hands, ‘Oh, the VA isn't giving me the help that I need.' Well, hey, man, take responsibility for your own life. You've got to figure this sh-t out. And we're here to help you.” –Scottie Schneider Scottie Schneider is a military veteran, West Point graduate, and the founder of Waking Warrior, a community and support system for military veterans who are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse issues, and thoughts of suicide. Based in Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, Scottie is adept at using traditional plant medicine, including hallucinogens, as part of the psychological healing process. A West Point graduate with a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering and Russian language, Scottie served as an Army officer from 2005 to 2012, where he was stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. Following his military service, Scottie embarked on a successful career in sales for a number of technology companies, where he mentored teams and developed an expertise in strategic relationships, key account management, sales operations, and revenue generation. Despite his business success, he also dealt with severe depression, substance abuse issues, and thoughts of suicide, which put him on a path of personal and spiritual exploration and, ultimately, healing. In this episode, we discuss: Scottie's journey from West Point graduate to salesperson and his struggles with depression and alcoholism after leaving the military. The role of plant medicines and psychedelics in Scottie's personal healing process. The founding of Waking Warrior, an online community and support system for military veterans dealing with mental health challenges and substance abuse. The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, especially for men and veterans transitioning to civilian life. Scottie's approach to personal development, including the concept of "skill stacking" and focusing on building systems rather than just goals. The challenges of identity restructuring for veterans after leaving the military, and how Waking Warrior aims to address this. Alternative healing methods, from breathwork to meditation and beyond, and how experimenting with different modalities can help veterans coping with PTSD and other mental health issues find the right tools to live a healthy and fulfilling life. Scottie Schneider's journey from West Point graduate to founder of Waking Warrior, a community and support system for veterans, is a testament to the power of personal and spiritual transformation and the importance of addressing mental health in the veteran community. After serving as an Army officer in Fairbanks, Alaska, Scottie faced his own battles with depression and alcoholism upon leaving the military. His struggle led him to explore alternative healing methods, including plant medicines and psychedelics, which played a crucial role in his personal recovery. Drawing from his experiences and leveraging his diverse skill set – which spans from environmental engineering to sales and technology – Scottie founded Waking Warrior. This online community and support system aims to help military veterans grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. Scottie's approach emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and personal growth. Waking Warrior encourages veterans to explore various healing modalities, from breathwork to meditation and other systems, recognizing that each individual's path to recovery is unique. By addressing the challenges of identity restructuring and promoting "skill stacking," Scottie and Waking Warrior are working to provide veterans with the tools they need to thrive in civilian life and rediscover their sense of purpose. Connect with Scottie: LinkedIn www.wakingwarrior.org scottie@wakingwarrior.org Scottie's book recommendations from the podcast: Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins How to Fail at Everything and Still Win Big by Scott Adams 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan Peterson If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Scottie for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
“I talked to a lot of people, and it was really surprising to me – the low levels of service that are prevalent in this industry. And a lot of the way we will win is by simply doing what we say we're going to do… We think we can bring more value, especially for someone who's in the e-commerce space and looking to be multichannel…” –Eric Lobdell Eric Lobdell is the founder of Thrive 3PL, Lonestar Trade, and Lobdell Capital, companies that offer warehousing, fulfillment, and logistics solutions to help launch and scale e-commerce businesses. Eric turned a career in commercial real estate and a side hustle selling supplements on Amazon into a collection of companies that help their clients focus on growing their businesses and achieving success in the competitive e-commerce market. In this episode, we discuss: The founding of Thrive 3PL, a third-party logistics company offering fulfillment services for e-commerce and other businesses. Eric's journey from running an Amazon reselling business to starting a commercial real estate venture and eventually launching Thrive 3PL. How Eric's colleague Robert Parr joined the company, transitioning from a career in tech and professional soccer coaching to e-commerce and logistics. How Eric's other companies, Lonestar Trade and Lobdell Capital, fit into the mix. The company's vision for growth, including plans for expansion, and navigating the changing e-commerce business landscape that is largely dominated by Amazon. Eric's journey from Amazon reseller to logistics innovator showcases the power of entrepreneurial adaptation. Eric explains how hurdles he faced in a side hustle selling supplements on Amazon led him to explore commercial real estate and warehousing as a tangible asset. This pivot unexpectedly paved the way for Thrive 3PL, a third-party logistics company born from the intersection of e-commerce expertise and real estate experience. By identifying the underserved needs of small to medium-sized e-commerce businesses, Eric and his team created a solution that combines warehouse management and fulfillment, cutting-edge software, and personalized service to help their customers thrive. Their story reminds us that entrepreneurial success often comes from leveraging past experiences to solve new problems and turning challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth. Connect with Eric Lobdell: LinkedIn Thrive 3PL Lonestar Trade eric@thrive3pl.com If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Eric and Robert for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
“Let us show you how competitive we can be, how well we service, how well we support your draw and your rehab and construction efforts and let that speak for itself. Words are one thing, but action... I put a lot more stock in that." -Jason Hutton Jason Hutton is the Managing Director of Academy Fund, a gateway for military veteran real estate investors to obtain flexible and competitively-priced capital to support their projects. In turn, these loans generate attractive risk-adjusted returns and ongoing passive income for Academy Fund investors. With nearly 25 years of experience as a senior executive, Jason has led organizations across various industries, managed multi-million dollar P&Ls, and has been involved in over $28 billion in loans. His expertise spans leadership, negotiations, strategic planning, and relationship management. Jason is a West Point graduate (‘95) and he holds an MBA from NYU's Stern School of Business. He is committed to mentoring veterans and aspiring Academy graduates and helping them to achieve their financial goals. In this episode, we discuss: Jason's career path leading up to his work at Academy Fund, including being the SVP and COO at Sherman Bridge, where he overhauled the company's prospecting, deal management, and CRM processes, resulting in over 2,300 loans valued at $500 million in less than two years. How Jason joined Academy Fund and his quick implementation of new products, including a 30-year financing option for real estate investors. The Academy Fund's focus on providing flexible financing options for military veteran real estate investors, including purchase, rehab, and ground-up construction financing for single-family and multifamily properties. Advice for real estate investors, emphasizing the importance of market research, proper planning, and open communication with lenders. Jason's goals for Academy Fund, including expanding the team, improving technology, and potentially doubling or tripling the business within the next two years, making it the premier lender for veteran and academy graduate real estate investors in the United States. Jason Hutton is the Managing Director of Academy Fund. As a West Point graduate with an MBA from NYU's Stern School of Business and a former SVP and COO at Sherman Bridge, Jason brings nearly 25 years of senior executive experience to his role at Academy Fund. In this podcast interview with Service Academy founder Scott Mackes, Jason shares insights from his impressive career as well as his big goals to expand Academy Fund's team, improve its technology, and grow the business in the coming years, making it the premier lender for veteran and academy graduate real estate investors in the United States. Connect with Jason: LinkedIn jason@academyfund.com (214) 205-7492 https://www.academyfund.com/ If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Jason for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Show Notes OCF MINISTRY NEWS New hires; jobs still available on OCF team: While couples have stepped forward to fill open positions at USMA and USCGA on an interim basis, the application window at both West Point and the Coast Guard Academy is now extended to 31 October with an expected start date in the summer of 2025. To learn more and apply, visit our job openings page. Fall programs await at Spring Canyon and White Sulphur Springs: Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop, 13-15 September, at WSS: Jump-start your career transition with a weekend of interactive work, group discussions, and personal exercises, all facilitated by retired military leaders with over 200 years of combined leadership and life-coaching experience. Climb Together, September 2024, at SC: This three-day wilderness experience, complete with outdoor activities, campfires, spectacular mountain vistas and events, is tailored to meet the needs of busy families who yearn to “Reconnect in the Rockies.” Parent-Youth Adventure Weekends, October-November 2024, at WSS: Designed for one parent and one child, these weekends are an opportunity to build memories that will last a lifetime. ASK OCF TSgt Ryan Padgett, USAF (Ret.), answered the FAQ: Is OCF only for officers? Ryan shares about his own experience with joining OCF and encourages other enlisted service members to get involved, too. Interested in getting involved in OCF? Fill out our membership form and/or find an OCF study near you. If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. GUEST SPOTLIGHT CH(CAPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), spoke on this month's episode about hardship and suffering, topics which also served as his focus while he was the speaker for a week of Summer R&R at White Sulphur Springs last month. Having enlisted in 1992 and later commissioned as a chaplain, Michael has also pastored churches in Ohio and Canada. He currently serves as the associate pastor for discipleship at Grace Evangelical Congregational Church in Knox, Pa. If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. POINTS TO PONDER As you listen to this conversation with Michael, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor: What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering? How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others? What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship? Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?
“The best advantage of being in this industry for 17 years is the relationships. You can make a very good living and make money in health care, which is great. However, I think most people who go into this field genuinely care about improving patient care.” -Greg Parranto Greg Parranto is the Chief Executive Officer of Endeavor Orthopedics with over 16 years of experience in orthopedic trauma and medical device sales, business development, and management. He has held leadership roles at Depuy Synthes/Johnson & Johnson, including Midwest Area Vice President for Trauma and Extremities, National Director of Specialty Sales, and Global Segment Manager. Greg's expertise spans global perspectives on orthopedics, diverse medical device markets, and innovation in product development. He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management with a Healthcare Leadership Certificate, a Master of Public Administration from Webster University, and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Management from the US Military Academy at West Point. In this episode, we discuss: Differences between skill sets needed at a large company vs. startup When is the right time to bring in a CEO for a founder-led startup Closing his $2M convertible note funding round Hiring a VP of Sales once funding is secured to focus on growing sales Launching 3 additional products currently in development pipelines Greg walks through his career journey from sales to leadership roles at large companies like Synthes and Johnson & Johnson, where he gained invaluable experience but missed the opportunity to directly solve clinical problems. This inspired Greg to pursue an MBA and eventually join Endeavor Orthopedics as CEO. Thank you, Greg! Connect with Greg: LinkedIn Endeavor Orthopedics If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Greg for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Hey team! Before we dive in, I've got some exciting announcements: 1) Join us on August 8th NJ for an exclusive Advanced Real Estate Investing Workshop & Networking Event at the prestigious Park Avenue Club in Florham Park, NJ. This premier event is crafted to elevate your real estate investing skills with institutional-level analysis. Whether you're a private investor, a commercial real estate operator, or work in the commercial real estate industry, this is your chance to expand your network and learn from the best. Space is limited, so don't miss out! Register here: https://www.10xvets.com/advanced-real-estate-workshop 2) On October 1st we're heading to Charleston, SC for an incredible retreat. We'll kick off with a business mastermind session at the Harbour Club in downtown Charleston. Later, we'll set sail on a harbor cruise and enjoy a fantastic dinner together. On October 2nd, get ready for an exciting inshore fishing tournament with a fleet of fishing boats. It's going to be an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to surround yourself with like-minded successful veterans who are pushing each other to greatness. Register here: https://www.10xvets.com/charleston-event To learn more and register for these events, visit 10xvets.com/events. Hope to see you there! Today's Podcast: “Our vision is that child welfare is enabled, as a system, to support families and children rather than to separate them.” -Jennifer Jacobs, USMA ‘93 Jennifer Jacobs is the CEO and Co-founder of Connect Our Kids, a technology nonprofit dedicated to helping social workers, lawyers, family recruiters, and CASA/GAL volunteers find supportive family connections and natural support networks for America's most vulnerable. The organization's advanced tech tools speed up and scale up techniques for finding extended family members and other caring adults for children in foster care. Jennifer has applied her technical expertise gained from working in nuclear counterterrorism as an Army Officer to Connect Our Kids. The organization has affected 18,000 children and found over half a million connections for those children, touching the lives of over 10,000 American families. In this episode, we discuss: Where Jennifer came up with the idea to create Connect Our Kids How the technology works to help social workers do their job more efficiently Impactful success stories of children being connected with family members and adults in their circle Jennifer's long-term vision for Connect Our Kids and her short-term goals for 2024 The challenges Jennifer is facing and the support she needs to help Connect Our Kids grow Jennifer explains that social workers who work in child welfare can use the tools provided by Connect Our Kids to build out a “map” for a child. This helps to organize all known information about the child's family and other adults in their circle and search for more details on the Internet through the Connect Our Kids People Search technology. By having a tool that searches for and organizes all of the key details, social workers have more time, bandwidth, and emotional energy to do the human work of social work. Due to Jennifer's smart application of modern technology, Connect Our Kids is impacting the lives of thousands of children and families. Thank you, Jennifer, for creating tools that help foster children be connected to their people. Connect with Jennifer: LinkedIn connectourkids.org jennifer@connectourkids.org If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Jennifer for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
“That's the beauty of note investing. You don't have to do it locally. It's not like a development deal or a rental property where you have to be semi-local because there are no tenants or maintenance. It's vacant land that is the collateral on these notes. We do deals in 30-plus states and that's how we're able to really scale it.” -Quinn McArthur, USMA ‘08 Quinn McArthur is the Co-Founder and Fund Manager of Legacy Land Fund, a real estate fund that focuses exclusively on the distinctive and expanding land investments sector. By securing a 1st lien position, imposing stringent requirements for robust down payments and credit scores, and maintaining a carefully balanced 50-60% loan-to-value ratio, Legacy Land Fund ensures a secure and reliable approach to land investment and allows for passive income for its investors through mortgage note investing. Quinn is a West Point graduate and former Green Beret. A devoted husband and father, he balances faith-driven values and a commitment to stewardship with his real estate investments. In this episode, we discuss: Quinn's journey into real estate investing and what attracted him to the industry What Quinn and his partner are accomplishing at Legacy Land Fund The keys to success in finding and maintaining deal flow How mortgage note investing works Although Quinn did not set out to establish a fund for his mortgage note investing efforts, his success in the business led him to create Legacy Land Fund to set him up to scale. He explains that because his strategy of buying discounted notes on the secondary market is niche, there is less competition and more opportunity. Plus, purchasing notes is a secure and predictable way to invest and the market is very healthy. We learned a lot from Quinn about how he has found success in mortgage note investing and look forward to seeing how he will scale with his first fund. Thanks for chatting, Quinn! Connect with Quinn: LinkedIn www.legacylandfund.com If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Quinn for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
“I want Zimba to be a key part of the digitization process that we're starting to see in Uganda and other parts of Africa, especially for financial institutions.” -Isaac Were, USMA ‘16 Isaac Were is the CEO of Zimba Technologies, a SaaS financial technology company that builds cloud-based software to digitize and automate financial institutions as well as provide them with access to capital. Zimba's mission is to bridge financial gaps in developing markets through innovation and technology. Originally from Uganda, Isaac is addressing the problem of access to capital for individuals and business owners in the more rural parts of his home country. He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a Biomedical Concentration. In this episode, we discuss: What led Isaac to start Zimba The types of clients Zimba serves and the services the company provides The typical journey for a customer using our Zimba's core banking platform Isaac's most important short-term and long-term goals The biggest challenges Isaac is facing as he works to scale Zimba Isaac explains that in Uganda, a majority of the population lives in villages that are on the outskirts of the major cities. By working with the Savings and Credit Cooperatives to help improve their operations and infrastructure, Zimba can improve access to finance for all people, regardless of location. We enjoyed our conversation with Isaac and admire the work he is doing to cultivate economic growth and inclusion in Uganda. Great work, Isaac! Connect with Isaac: LinkedIn zimba.io isaac@zimba.io If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Isaac for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
“...if we can learn to lead ourselves, to manage our minds and our emotions and our actions in our private life, in our health, in our relationships and in the corporate world, then we are better positioned to use those critical thinking skills to make a difference in our businesses and in the greater world…” -Traci Fisher, USMA ‘91 Traci Fisher, a West Point graduate from the class of '91, embarked on a transformative journey after her career as a helicopter pilot in the Army. Delving into the realm of fitness and health, she developed an innovative approach known as Wellbeingness®. This methodology integrates cognitive and physical sciences to optimize executive performance, enabling leaders to attain and sustain peak wellness. Through the application of self-leadership principles, Traci empowers individuals and teams to unlock their personal and professional potential amid complex and uncertain environments. Traci boasts certifications as a Health and Wellness Coach, ICF Professional Certified Coach, Gallup Strengths Coach, and Red Team Critical Thinker. She is also the host of The Healthy Leader Podcast and holds the position of managing director at two health and wellness companies. Passionate about holistic wellness, Traci, a proud mother of three adult children, resides in Cleveland with her family and their two beloved Beabulls, Emmie & Oscar. In this episode, we discuss: Traci's journey to becoming a Wellness Coach and her ideal client The Wellness Coach process and the Wellbeingness® Model Her top strengths and how she leverages them as a Wellness Coach Challenges Traci currently faces and goals for 2024 Creating a vision statement that brings the future into the present When Traci first began her health and fitness journey, she knew what to do to help her clients' physical wellbeing but did not know how to make the changes last. Realizing she was missing the key components of emotional and mental health, Traci created the Wellbeingness® Model to marry wellness and wellbeing and give her clients a foundation to self-lead in often overscheduled and unpredictable environments. As a wellness coach, she relies on her top strength of Learner to consume large amounts of wellness data and to listen to the needs of her clients to provide the best tools for them. Sharing her vast health and wellness expertise gained over the past 25 years in the industry, Traci reminds us that caring for our mental and emotional wellbeing as well as our physical selves is essential to attaining peak performance in our professional and personal lives and offers her best wellness tips. Connect with Traci: LinkedIn The Wellness Coach If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Traci for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
La justice sud-africaine a autorisé lundi le nouveau parti de l'ex président Jacob Zuma, candidat aux législatives de mai, à conserver un nom et un logo étroitement liés à la lutte anti-apartheid. L'ANC a annoncé faire appel de cette décision. Également dans l'actualité, plus de 110 civils ont été enlevés au Mali par des "jihadistes" il y a 6 jours. Ils ont été pris en otage dans le centre du pays. Pour l'instant leurs proches n'ont pas de nouvelle d'eux. Enfin, Un match de football prévu dimanche soir entre le club algérois USMA et l'équipe marocaine RS Berkane a été annulé au dernier moment sur fond de tensions politiques entre les deux voisins.
Chris Kidd, Associate Professor, U.S. Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island is our guest. Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired), Kidd was commissioned in the Infantry from the USMA in 1992. Col Kidd served in numerous troop leading and staff positions while assigned to multiple battalions during his career. His deployments include a peacekeeping mission in Sinai, Egypt as well as combat operations in Tikrit, Iraq, Samarra, Iraq, and Maiwand, Afghanistan. Along the way we discuss Family Service (1:50), Mount Yonah (11:35), aide-de-camp duties (15:40), West Point (21:15), Fear of Failure (27:50), and the Military's Future (31:30). Intro and outro music from the brilliant riffs of Kenny Kilgore. Low Riders and Beautiful Rainy Day.
“We're really taking care of the houses and we're really taking care of the families that are living in these houses. We're providing a service just as much as we are being landlords because these families can take their government vouchers wherever they go. We have to be good stewards of the government funding or else it is going to naturally leave.” -Briar Bearss, USMA ‘22 Briar Bearss is an entrepreneur focused on real estate and private capital. His former ventures include My Tennessee Home Solution, Tennessee's premier off-market homebuyer. Briar is the President and CEO of the Bearss Company, a boutique alternative asset manager holding controlling positions in exceptional companies and projects. He also leads The Bearss Foundation, a private family foundation formed under Section 501(c)(3) providing scholarship opportunities and mentorship to high school students in his home state of Michigan. Briar currently serves as an Army Officer and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Systems Engineering. In this episode, we discuss: How Briar's real estate investing business has grown and changed Briar's goals as he wraps up his first fund and begins to plan for his second The sources through which Briar learned about real estate investing and his approach as he continues to grow his knowledge The Bearss Foundation and how it helps to expand the horizons of kids in the greater Flint, MI area Briar shares his greatest sources of learning as he educated himself about real estate investing. In addition to reading and consuming as much content as he can on the subject, Briar connects with others who have achieved success in the field and seeks mentorship. By sharing his ideas and work with others in his network, he is constantly improving his processes and operations. Briar takes advantage of every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others, which will help him go far as a real estate entrepreneur. Kudos to you, Briar, and we look forward to seeing all you achieve! Connect with Briar: LinkedIn bearssproperties.com bearssfoundation.org If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Briar for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Gabriel Silva es un abogado internacional y especialista en asuntos gubernamentales, graduado con honores de reconocidas universidades como Oxford, Columbia y la USMA, donde obtuvo becas por su destacado desempeño académico. Con una amplia trayectoria en el sector público, privado, ONG y academia, ha demostrado su compromiso con el impacto social y el liderazgo desde temprana edad. Elegido como diputado independiente del circuito 8-3 en las elecciones generales de 2019, decidió incursionar en la política con la convicción de que la participación ciudadana independiente es clave para erradicar la corrupción, considerada la raíz de los problemas en Panamá. Fue el segundo diputado por libre postulación más votado del país, y durante su mandato legislativo ha presentado diversas propuestas para combatir la corrupción, promover la transparencia y llevar a cabo reformas en áreas como la educación y la salud mental. Se ha centrado en temas fundamentales como la educación, la lucha contra la corrupción y el desarrollo económico, los cuales son los pilares de su gestión en la Asamblea Nacional.
Ok all you “ten-ers,” Laurie and Michelle are bringing you a guest and story that exudes the message of resiliency, courage and the importance of supporting and paving the way for other women.This episode's guest is Kristin Baker. Kristin is a retired Army Colonel, former Military Intelligence Commander and the first female Commander of Cadets at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Kristin has spent over 30 years breaking ground for other women, and it hasn't been easy. We will discuss her time at West Point, and the challenges, lessons and scrutiny she faced with that controversial appointment. We will have honest dialog about what it meant to embark on a lengthy career in a predominately male environment, battling stereotypes and balancing family commitments. Let's go!Get Ready To Be Inspired, Educated, Empowered and Entertained! For more information visit us @shesa10times5. https://instagram.com/shesa10times5
“Esports can turn something that could be very negative…180 degrees into a very positive experience for a child's life.” -Patrick Cronin, USMA ‘13 Patrick Cronin is the Co-Founder and CEO of Vanta, an esports company that provides a curriculum, a platform, and leagues to help kids from 8-18 grow into the best version of themselves. The company integrates the lessons and life skills gained from traditional sports—being part of a team, learning how to win and lose well, and showing up for each other—into esports, allowing kids to become inspiring athletes and model citizens who can positively impact the gaming world and become future leaders. Pat earned his BS in Systems Management from the United States Military Academy at West Point and his Master of Business Administration from the Boston College Carroll School of Management. In this episode, we discuss: The inspiration for starting Vanta How the program works at schools across the country and the positive impact it is having on kids The growth Vanta has experienced so far and Pat's goals for this year How Pat and his team partner with large name brands in unique ways The challenges Vanta is facing as it continues to grow 90 percent of kids identify as a gamer, meaning they spend 10 hours a week or more gaming. Pat shares that the team at Vanta is making an impact on this demographic of kids by providing an after-school activity of interest to them that allows for social and emotional development, mentorship, and a sense of community. Not only is it rewarding for Pat to provide kids with an opportunity they wouldn't have had otherwise, but it is also rewarding for Vanta as a company, which will be cash-flow positive starting this month. We enjoyed hearing from Pat about the very popular esports industry and how Vanta is creating community in the space. Congratulations on all of your success so far, Pat, and we look forward to seeing Vanta continue to grow! Connect with Pat: LinkedIn vanta.gg pat@vanta.gg If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Pat for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Carolina Yepes, una profesional que ha forjado su carrera dentro de la reconocida multinacional de alimentos y bebidas, Nestlé, es un verdadero ejemplo de dedicación y crecimiento. Graduada de la USMA en Ingeniería Industrial y con una maestría en Administración de Empresas. Poco después de alcanzar estos logros académicos, Carolina ingresó a Nestlé como practicante, marcando el inicio de una trayectoria impresionante. A lo largo de 8 años, Carolina ha ascendido con éxito ocupando roles clave como Gerente de categoría y Gerente de ventas para Panamá. Recientemente, su dedicación y preparación la han llevado a ser nombrada Gerente Regional de Marketing de Consumo Senior para Nestlé Centroamérica, una posición de gran relevancia. Su historia es un claro ejemplo de superación y dedicación en el competitivo entorno de una multinacional de gran reconocimiento.
In the latest episode of the Empowerography Podcast, my guest is Phoebe Leona. Phoebe Leona's mission in life is to offer people deeper experiences of themselves so that they have a greater sense of purpose and belonging in the world. She has done this in many creative ways as an international bestselling, award-winning author, TEDx Speaker, contemporary dancer, yoga teacher (500-ERYT), entrepreneur, and Embodiment Guide/Leader. As the founder of The nOMad Collective and co-founder of TRIBE Military Yoga, Phoebe teaches leaders how to lead with empathy and heart-centered guides how to step into their power. She has been on diverse stages as a dancer, speaker, teacher from Times Square New Year's Eve Celebration to USMA at West Point to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. She delivers inspiring and powerful transformational messages that interweave personal storytelling with easy and accessible knowledge about the energetic body, nervous system, and emotional awareness/intelligence. Phoebe is also passionate about sharing her own embodiment practice, Mvt109™ to guide people to better understand how to handle the pressures of life and negate burnout, overwhelm, and get out of survival mode. You can listen to Phoebe on her podcast, nOMad's The Space in Between, and read her most recent book, Dear Radiant One: An Emotional Recovery Story and Transformational Guide to Embody the Dance of Life. In this episode we discuss dancing, yoga, the heartbeat of your why and the nOMad Collective. Website - https://www.phoebeleona.com/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/phoebeleona.love/ TEDx Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQDCRNEHwPA&t=7s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phoebe-leona-02a55578/ Phoebe's Book - https://www.phoebeleona.com/dear-radiant-one In this episode you will learn: 1. What is and what does an embodiment guide do. 2. What a hyper arousal state vs a hypo arousal state is. 3. How entrepreneurship will stretch and push you in ways you never even imagined. "My purpose of creating transformational experiences, so people have a greater sense of belonging and purpose, is my heartbeat." - 00:03:45 "Looking at how you see your life. So what is the perception? Is life happening to me? So you're kind of playing the victim role. Is life happening by me? You're the bystander."- 00:30:42 "Be courageous enough to know yourself. Remember what your soul came here to do and to be more importantly, not do, but be remember that you do belong." - 00:54:44 THE WORLD needs to hear your message and your story. Don't deny the world of that gift within you that the universe has gave to you. Someone out there needs to hear your story because it will support them in feeling hope, inspired and even transformed. Want to discover how I help my clients get out of their own way, show up and confidently share their message? I would like to invite you to check out my FREE MASTERCLASS REPLAY Start Your Own Podcast: Idea to Implementation Watch Here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7iItDG4qaI
In the latest episode of the Empowerography Podcast, my guest is Phoebe Leona. Phoebe Leona's mission in life is to offer people deeper experiences of themselves so that they have a greater sense of purpose and belonging in the world. She has done this in many creative ways as an international bestselling, award-winning author, TEDx Speaker, contemporary dancer, yoga teacher (500-ERYT), entrepreneur, and Embodiment Guide/Leader. As the founder of The nOMad Collective and co-founder of TRIBE Military Yoga, Phoebe teaches leaders how to lead with empathy and heart-centered guides how to step into their power. She has been on diverse stages as a dancer, speaker, teacher from Times Square New Year's Eve Celebration to USMA at West Point to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. She delivers inspiring and powerful transformational messages that interweave personal storytelling with easy and accessible knowledge about the energetic body, nervous system, and emotional awareness/intelligence. Phoebe is also passionate about sharing her own embodiment practice, Mvt109™ to guide people to better understand how to handle the pressures of life and negate burnout, overwhelm, and get out of survival mode. You can listen to Phoebe on her podcast, nOMad's The Space in Between, and read her most recent book, Dear Radiant One: An Emotional Recovery Story and Transformational Guide to Embody the Dance of Life. In this episode we discuss dancing, yoga, the heartbeat of your why and the nOMad Collective. Website - https://www.phoebeleona.com/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/phoebeleona.love/ TEDx Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQDCRNEHwPA&t=7s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phoebe-leona-02a55578/ Phoebe's Book - https://www.phoebeleona.com/dear-radiant-one In this episode you will learn: 1. What is and what does an embodiment guide do. 2. What a hyper arousal state vs a hypo arousal state is. 3. How entrepreneurship will stretch and push you in ways you never even imagined. "My purpose of creating transformational experiences, so people have a greater sense of belonging and purpose, is my heartbeat." - 00:03:45 "Looking at how you see your life. So what is the perception? Is life happening to me? So you're kind of playing the victim role. Is life happening by me? You're the bystander."- 00:30:42 "Be courageous enough to know yourself. Remember what your soul came here to do and to be more importantly, not do, but be remember that you do belong." - 00:54:44 THE WORLD needs to hear your message and your story. Don't deny the world of that gift within you that the universe has gave to you. Someone out there needs to hear your story because it will support them in feeling hope, inspired and even transformed. Want to discover how I help my clients get out of their own way, show up and confidently share their message? I would like to invite you to check out my FREE MASTERCLASS REPLAY Start Your Own Podcast: Idea to Implementation Watch Here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7iItDG4qaI
“I'm an acquirer and curator of ideas and strategies, and I have a Rolodex of people to execute those strategies.” -Steve Wingard, USMA ‘87 Steve Wingard is the Founder and Managing Partner of Wayfinder Wealth, a financial advising firm that helps families and business owners uncomplicate complex planning with a specialization in high net-worth strategies. Steve is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and has been a financial services professional for more than 20 years. He enjoys simplifying the process through problem-solving for intangibles and is passionate about helping clients to achieve their goals. At Wayfinder, Steve works to shape the future services and capabilities of the firm and leverages his strategic financial planning expertise to empower enterprising individuals and families. In this episode, we discuss: What Steve does at Wayfinder Wealth and how he helps clients look at their complete financial picture How Steve came about writing his e-book, “A Dozen Ways to Derail Your Wealth” Steve's journey in the world of financial advising and what has made him successful Some of the strategies Steve uses to solve the financial “puzzles” his clients face Steve's most important goals for 2024 Steve's unofficial title at Wayfinder is “Chief Puzzle Officer” because he likes to look at a client's complete picture and put all of the pieces together to create the best strategy possible. By assembling a curated team of advisors that he knows will best suit each individual set of circumstances, Steve can ensure that his client's financial plan stays focused and well-coordinated. Thank you, Steve, for sharing your expertise with us. You are a wealth of knowledge! Connect with Steve: LinkedIn Wayfinder Wealth If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Steve for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Hey there, my friend! I am so excited that you're here for today's interview. It's such a powerful conversation with my friend, Major Logan Philips, about his book, Number Your Stories and Lead like a Legend. I met Logan in March 2022 in a virtual Writing Your Book class with my publishing mentor, Kristin Bentley, who is the founder and CEO of E.P. House. Logan is such a fun guy with a big heart, great sense of humor, and he tells the best stories that everyone can connect with. I got to hear a lot of the stories that made it into his book, so it's so fun for me to be able to hold the book and to know how hard he worked to make it a reality. Logan Phillips is a world-class leader development expert. As a career Army officer, former Basic Training Commander, Assistant Professor at the United States Military Academy (USMA), and award-winning author, Logan's dynamic storytelling masterfully weaves together his diverse and exciting background to empower readers. Having spent over a decade shaping the next generation of military leaders, Logan now leverages his wealth of experience to bring these lessons to a broader audience, imparting invaluable leadership principles to individuals and organizations worldwide. In his groundbreaking new work, "Number Your Stories and Lead Like a Legend," Logan captivates readers with incredible thought-provoking faith-led tales as he shares vital lessons on leadership and growth. Logan is a nuclear physicist with degrees from USMA and Yale University and was named the winner of the Teaching Excellence Award for 2021. During his free time, Logan coaches his boys' football team and writes children's literature. His acclaimed children's book, "I Love You More" donates 100% of proceeds to Gold-Star Children – kids who lost their parents in the defense of the nation.Logan is nothing short of amazing. And I am so excited to bring our conversation about leadership, being your best self, faith, and so much more to you. GET LOGAN'S BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Number-Your-Stories-Lead-Legend-ebook/dp/B0CN4241JW/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2U4NL2V3PGY14&keywords=number+your+stories+and+lead+like+a+legend&qid=1700420588&sprefix=number+yo%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1 LOGAN'S WEBSITE: https://loganphillipsauthor.com/
Usmažit, osolit, zabalit. Kuře, burger, hranolky, cokoli. Fast food. Vydělává a roste. Kde se vzal, proč na něj Češi stojí frontu a jak hladový je vůbec tuzemský trh? Je tu místo pro víc hráčů? Téma pro ekonomického publicistu Jakuba Žofčáka.Všechny díly podcastu Vinohradská 12 můžete pohodlně poslouchat v mobilní aplikaci mujRozhlas pro Android a iOS nebo na webu mujRozhlas.cz.
As the leader of a large public university and former undersecretary of the U.S. Navy, Dr. Janine Davidson has dedicated 30 years of her career to academic, civilian, and military service. Since 2017, she has been the President of Metropolitan State University of Denver, where she has been a staunch advocate for underrepresented students, DACA recipients, and military and veteran students. Prior to her work in higher education, she was appointed by former President Barack Obama as the 32nd undersecretary of the U.S. Navy. She's also a trailblazing pilot, being the first woman to fly the Air Force's tactical C-130. In today's episode, Janine reflects on her career: The interview process to become undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Engaging with the local community as President of MSU Denver Becoming one of the first female pilots in the air force Janine has been awarded many accolades, including the HillVets Top 100 Most Influential Veterans and the Secretary of the Navy Medal for Distinguished Public Service. At the national level, she is chair of the Department of Defense Policy Board and serves on the State Department Foreign Affairs Policy Board. Locally in Denver, Janine serves on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Colorado Concern, Downtown Denver Partnership, and the Rose Community Foundation. Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged. Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.
“I thought, ‘What if there's a way to insure the wealth?' That's all you want, is to protect future sources of income.” -Scott Tucker, USMA ‘02 Scott Tucker is a former Army Officer, a West Point graduate, and author of four books with unconventional ideas about military retirement, life, and wealth. He is the Founder of US VetWealth, a wealth management firm that offers access to safe investment strategies and helps military retirees create a "Private Pension" for their wealth so that they have more ownership of their assets, increased access to their money whenever they want it, and the ability to profit without additional rules, taxes, and fees. Scott has helped 100+ retiree high-income earners create a flexible and secure retirement with their unique benefits and pensions. In this episode, we discuss: Scott's journey of transitioning out of the Army, entering into the life insurance business, and finding his niche How Scott's personal health experiences intertwined with his success as an entrepreneur The new category of “wealth insurance” that Scott has created through his company, US VetWealth The unique strategies Scott implements to help military retirees protect their wealth Scott's goals for US VetWealth and how he envisions the company to grow When he was working in wealth management, Scott did not like the fact that he had to be all things to all people. That's what led to him finding his niche of using the life insurance investment model to help military retirees. He understood that, as career military officers retire, they need to change their financial strategy in order to make the most of their wealth. We learned a lot from Scott about the nuts and bolts of how someone can use life insurance to protect their wealth. Thanks for sharing with us, Scott! Connect with Scott: LinkedIn US Vet Wealth If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Scott for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
Rita Gandhy is a movement disorders neurologist and comes with over 4 years of experience at Roche/Genentech. Prior to her current work in USMA, Rita led the Study Review Team for a planned tominersen study in late onset Huntington's Disease, being responsible for developing the protocol and study set up. Before USMA, Rita was in the Product Development OMNI LEAD safety group as Safety Medical Director leading the safety strategy for the initiation and execution of a number of therapeutic areas including the anti-tau molecule semorinemab. Rita obtained her undergraduate degree in theology and biology from University of Rochester, and her Medical Degree at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. She completed her internship at Illinois Advocate Masonic hospital in Chicago, a year of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Stanford and neurology residency at the University of California, San Diego. She has an additional neurology subspecialty training in movement disorders from Georgetown University. She subsequently practiced clinical neurology, as the Director of the Movement Disorder program at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. There she developed a comprehensive movement program including Deep Brain Stimulation and other treatment modalities including comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care for Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease patients. To find out if you can join the clinical trial, or for more information, please speak to your doctor today or contact the Genentech Trial Information Support Line (TISL) at 888-662-6728 (Monday - Friday, 5am - 5pm PT). Or https://clinicaltrials.gov/ trial #NCT05686551
In occasione dell'anniversario dei 24 anni dalla nascita della nostra radio, proponiamo una riflessione sul mezzo radiofonico e sulla sua evoluzione, sulla voce, e su chi l'ascolta con Roberto Paci D'Alò, direttore di USMA radio, centro di ricerca per la radiofonia dell'università di San Marino.
Ramon "Tony" Nadal continued a proud family legacy when he was accepted into West Point after high school. Nadal's father was one the first Puerto Rican graduates of the U.S. Military Academy back in 1928. After his commissioning and officer training, Nadal quickly pursued special forces training with the Army Rangers and Pathfinders among others. Eventually that elite training made him an ideal choice to be a leader in a brand new type of air mobile warfare, which moved troops by helicopters instead of in trucks or on foot. In Vietnam, the air mobile concept would be put to the test.In this edition of "Veterans Chronicles," Col. Nadal takes us inside this cutting edge approach to warfare in the 1960's. He also takes us into the ferocious battle for Landing Zone X-Ray as part of the Battle of Ia Drang in November 1965, where he served as commander of A Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, 1st Air Cavalry Division. Nadal explains the circumstances leading up to the battle, how then-Col. Hal Moore and the other officers responded to a U.S. platoon being cut off from other forces, being in the midst of intense combat, and how the Americans successfully fought off North Vietnamese forces with much larger numbers.Don't miss this detailed reflection on a critical engagement in the early months of the Vietnam War.
Gregg F. Martin - Army Major General (Ret.), Author, Bipolar Survivor & Thriver Gregg Martin is a retired major general and a distinguished 36-year Army combat veteran who has left an indelible mark on the military. Throughout his illustrious career, he commanded various military units, including an engineer company, battalion, and the 130th Engineer Brigade in combat. Beyond the battlefield, he held esteemed positions such as the president of the National Defense University, commander of Ft. Leonard Wood, and commandant of the Army War College. What makes Gregg's journey truly remarkable is his unwavering resilience in the face of bipolar disorder, a personal battle he openly shares about in his book BIPOLAR GENERAL: My Forever War with Mental Illness. Gregg Martin's journey exemplifies an indomitable spirit that offers hope and inspiration to others confronting challenges in their lives. BIPOLAR GENERAL: My Forever War with Mental Illness "This memoir serves as both an education and a source of inspiration, aiming to dispel the stigma around mental illness, alleviate suffering, and save lives, aligning with my personal mission. It tracks my journey through the ups and downs of bipolar disorder. In sharing my story, I hope to offer a beacon of hope, a spark of inspiration, the power of love and faith, and knowledge that could be life-saving.” Learn More Website: www.bipolargeneral.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-f-martin-222735aa/ VeteranCrowd Network Our "forever promise" is to build the veteran and military spouse community a place to connect and engage. VeteranCrowd is simply a national network of veterans, veteran led businesses and the resources they need to prosper. Subscribe to stay in touch. by VeteranCrowd Network Why do thousands of merchants put us through a bootcamp to join their loyalty program? Why do they make checkout an obstacle course? It's embarrassing. Time consuming. Intrusive. Cumbersome. Broken. Why? Because no one ever built a simple & secure way to validate our veteran status at checkout. Until now. Want to be recognized at select merchants simply by swiping your existing Visa card? Join our waitlist and be one of the first veterans to have this power in your wallet. About Your Host Bob Louthan is a VMI Graduate, Army veteran, and executive with over 25 years of experience in mergers, acquisitions and private capital formation. He founded the VeteranCrowd Network to bring veterans and veteran-led businesses together with each other and the resources they need to prosper.
David Lipsky, author of The Parrot and the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial, joins The Realignment. David and Marshall discuss how climate change evolved from a policy oriented scientific issue to casualty of the culture wars, climate policy roads not taken over the past 70 years, the line between science denial and legitimate policy debate, the American political system's ability to "solve" climate change in the first place, and revisit Absolutely American: Four Years at West Point, David's chronicle of the USMA during the 9/11 era.Subscribe to The Realignment to access our exclusive Q&A episodes and support the show: https://realignment.supercast.com/Paul Krugman: Climate Is Now a Culture War Issue: Opinion | Climate Is Now a Culture War Issue - The New York Times (nytimes.com)REALIGNMENT NEWSLETTER: https://therealignment.substack.com/PURCHASE BOOKS AT OUR BOOKSHOP: https://bookshop.org/shop/therealignmentEmail Us: realignmentpod@gmail.comFoundation for American Innovation: https://www.thefai.org/posts/lincoln-becomes-fai
“The mentality in entrepreneurial real estate of ‘Well, that's someone else's job, that's someone else's problem.' That doesn't exist in my world. If there is an issue or concern… I need to be involved in every step. That way, I can fill the gaps and tie it all together. That type of mental ownership comes from being a Military Officer.” -Curtis Cullen, USMA ‘09 Curtis Cullen is the Co-Founder and Managing Principal at Convolo Capital, a real estate investment firm that is focused on providing investors with opportunities to invest in Multi-Family value add real estate providing cash flow, tax benefits, and upside appreciation potential. Curtis served in the Army as both an Infantry Officer and Aviation Officer. Upon exiting the Army in 2018, he worked for a real estate data company. After talking with others in his network, he decided to enter into the apartment investing space and started Convolo Capital. Curtis received his MBA in Real Estate and Finance from the UCLA Anderson School of Management. In this episode, we discuss: Why Curtis was drawn to real estate and his path to entering into apartment investing How Curtis approached building out his team at Convolo Capital The factors the Convolo team considered when selecting their geographic market Curtis's short-term and long-term goals for the business The challenge of raising capital in the current macroeconomic environment The lessons Curtis learned during his time in the Army that he uses today Curtis explains how, in the real estate business, there is a natural tension between growing the company and conservative underwriting. As he creates a plan to reach his short-term and long-term goals, he needs to ensure that Convolo will grow at a pace that will not disappoint his investors. Curtis also shares how the most important thing to consider when entering into the real estate business is finding the right partners who will create a well-rounded team. We enjoyed hearing about Curtis's journey into real estate and how he has found success with his team at Convolo Capital. Congratulations on all you have achieved so far, Curtis! Connect with Curtis: LinkedIn Convolo Capital curtis@convolocapital.com If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague. If you are a Service Academy graduate and want to take your business to the next level, you can join our supportive community and get started today. Subscribe and help out the show: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Also available on Google Podcasts, Spotify & Stitcher Leave us a 5-star review! Special thanks to Curtis for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01
John Raaen, Jr. entered the U.S. Military Academy in the summer of 1939, just weeks before World War II broke out in Europe. During his four years at West Point, there was no question his class would be going to war. Commissioned in 1943, Raaen soon joined the elite Army Rangers. Just a year later, as a captain, Raaen led men ashore at Omaha Beach on the morning of June 6, 1944. He is believed to be the last living officer to serve at Omaha Beach on D-Day.In our previous two episodes, retired Major General Raaen offered a gripping moment-by-moment account of coming ashore at Omaha Beach and reaching the the top of the bluff above the Dog White Sector. He also told us about the days following D-Day, including a deadly incident of friendly fire and fending off a German counterattack.In this final episode of our three-episode series with General Raaen, we move forward to the Battle of Brittany and specifically the Rangers' efforts to take out the German forts along the Atlantic coast and neutralize the powerful Graf Spee gun battery. He also shares two incidents in Brittany that nearly took his life.From there, Raaen takes to his service near the Battle of the Bulge, the work he did there and the injuries that ultimately ended his service in World War II.Finally, General Raaen tells about the balance of his 40-year career in the Army, most of it spent on armament logistics and development, including two types of ammunition that he invented.Don't miss this final chapter of our visit with 101-year-old World War II and Vietnam veteran Maj. General John Raaen, Jr.
John Raaen, Jr. grew up in an Army family and his father was a West Point graduate. Long before World War II, the Raaens were family friends with the Eisenhowers, the Bradleys, and other figures who would become household names in World War II. In 1939, Raaen followed in his father's footsteps and enrolled at West Point just as war was about to engulf Europe.In this edition of "Veterans Chronicles," Raaen, who is now 101 years old, walks us through his commissioning from West Point, becoming an Army Ranger, and preparing extensively for the Allied invasion of France, even though he did not know the exact details until the voyage across the English Channel.Raaen takes us through his experience at Normandy on June 6, 1944, including being re-routed from Pointe du Hoc to the Dog White sector of Omaha Beach and what he saw as he comes ashore. He also recounts some close calls as the landing craft made its way to shore and how he learned what the earlier waves of American forces endured on the beaches.He also shares how his men blasted through German barbed wire on the beach, and how several fortunate breaks allowed them to have a relatively smooth journey up the bluff. He also explains how the Ranger motto of "Rangers Lead the Way" was born right there on Omaha Beach.This is the first of a three-part series with General Raaen, who is believed to be the last living officer who served at Omaha Beach. Be sure to listen to the second part of our conversation next week, as he continues to tell us about his service on D-Day and beyond..This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/2980518/advertisement