Podcasts about Work ethic

Send us a textThis week on Leave Your Mark, I'm joined by Max Lapierre.Max played 11 full seasons in the NHL, spending time with the Montreal Canadiens, Anaheim Ducks, Vancouver Canucks, St. Louis Blues, and Pittsburgh Penguins, with additional years in the AHL and European professional hockey. Drafted by the Canadiens in 2003, Max carved out a career built not on hype but on work ethic, competitiveness, and an edge he had to earn every single day.But what makes this conversation powerful isn't just the resume.It's the honesty.Max shares what it was like growing up in a small town, betting on himself early, navigating trades that shook his identity, and living with labels that didn't always reflect his true capacity. We talk about pressure, confidence, being misunderstood as a player, and how certain environments can either limit you—or unlock you.We also dive into his post-playing transition. Just before retirement, Max co-founded the podcast La Poche Bleue with Guillaume Latendresse—what started as something fun between friends exploded into one of the most influential hockey platforms in Quebec and beyond. Alongside that, Max has built a thriving career in broadcasting with TVA Sports, offering sharp, thoughtful insight into the game he lived.At the center of it all is family—his wife Natasha, their three daughters, and the values Max is now intentional about passing on.This is a conversation about earning your place, adapting through uncertainty, and learning who you are when the jersey comes off.Episode 454 with Max Lapierre.If you liked this EP, please take the time to rate and comment, share with a friend, and connect with us on social channels IG @Kingopain, TW @BuiltbyScott, LI+FB Scott Livingston. You can find all things LYM at www.LYMLab.com, download your free Life Lab Starter Kit today and get busy living https://lymlab.com/free-lym-lab-starter/Please take the time to visit and connect with our sponsors, they are an essential part of our success:www.ReconditioningHQ.comwww.FreePainGuide.com

Leadership demands grit, clarity and conviction. SUMMARY On Long Blue Leadership, Congressman August Pfluger '00 reflects on these qualities through his experiences at the U.S. Air Force Academy, in the cockpit and as part of the U.S. House of Representatives. His story challenges every leader to ask where courage is calling them to go next. SHARE THIS PODCAST LINKEDIN  |  FACEBOOK    CONGRESSMAN PFLUGER'S TOP 10 LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS Courageous career leaps require conviction, timing and faith. Pfluger left active duty at 19 years and four months — a highly unconventional choice — demonstrating that major pivots sometimes require stepping into uncertainty. Work ethic is a lifelong differentiator. He emphasizes that he has never been “the best,” but has always been willing to outwork anyone. Hard work + grit consistently opened doors. Failure and setbacks shape long-term success. Missed opportunities at USAFA and earlier career disappointments taught him timing, resilience and long-term perspective. Leadership is transferable across domains. His fighter pilot and command experience directly enabled his political success — planning, debrief culture and thick skin all mapped over perfectly. Credibility requires deep study and prioritization. You cannot master everything; leaders must choose focus areas and know them cold so others trust their expertise. Humility, credibility and approachability are foundational leadership traits. These principles translate powerfully to Congress and team leadership. Family and faith must anchor leadership. His family's summer crisis reframed his priorities: “None of this matters if you don't take care of your family.” The nation needs more military and Academy graduates in public leadership. He stresses that only four USAFA grads have ever served in Congress — and more are needed to restore civility and mission-focused service. The U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force are under-resourced relative to global threats. Pfluger advocates vigorously for rebalancing defense spending to meet modern challenges. Self-reflection is critical to growth. Leaders must ask: How do I see myself? How do others see me? If those don't align, adjust the work ethic, mindset or behaviors accordingly.   CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction & Biography 01:44 — Opening Remarks 01:47 — Leaving Active Duty at 19 Years and 4 Months 04:06 — Why Run for Office? 05:40 — Family, Faith & Influences 07:14 — Representing His Hometown District 08:29 — Learning to Represent a District 11:07 — Work Ethic and USAFA Foundations 12:22 — Failure, Setbacks & Long-Term Rewards 15:10 — Unexpected Assignments Becoming Career High Points 17:24 — Pentagon, Fellowship & NSC 19:49 — USAFA Grads in Congress 21:03 — Role of the Board of Visitors 23:24 — Key Focus Areas for the Board of Visitors 25:11 — Top National Security Challenges 27:13 — Balancing Congress, Leadership, and Family 29:01 — Leadership Style & Decision-Making 30:40 — Humble, Credible, Approachable 33:38 — Building Credibility as a Younger Leader 34:43 — What's Next: A More United Country 37:29 — Daily Habits for Growth 39:37 — Advice for Emerging Leaders 41:24 — Final Reflections & Call to Action 43:45 — Closing Thoughts & Outro   ABOUT CONGRESSMAN PFLUGER BIO U.S. Rep. August Pfluger '00 is serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represents 20 counties in Texas' 11th Congressional District. After graduating from the U.S Air Force Academy, he served in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 25 years as an F-22 and F-15 pilot with over 300 combat hours. In Congress, he is chairman of the Republican Study Committee, the largest caucus on Capitol Hill. He is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. CONNECT WITH THE CONGRESSMAN LINKEDIN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES   CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LINE PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Ted Robertson | Producer and Editor:  Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org Send your feedback or nominate a guest: socialmedia@usafa.org   Ryan Hall | Director:  Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org  Bryan Grossman | Copy Editor:  Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Wyatt Hornsby | Executive Producer:  Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org      ALL PAST LBL EPISODES  |  ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS     FULL TRANSCRIPT OUR SPEAKERS Guest, Rep. August Pfluger '00  |  Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz 0:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. In this edition of Long Blue Leadership, we're honored to welcome a distinguished leader whose career spans military service, national security and public office, Congressman August Pfluger is a proud graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2000, and currently represents the 11th Congressional District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. Before entering Congress, Congressman Pfluger served for nearly two decades in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of colonel. He is currently a member of the Air Force Reserve as an F-15 and F-22 fighter pilot. He logged over 300 combat hours in defense of our nation. He has also served as a member of the National Security Council, bringing strategic insight to some of the most complex global threats we face today. Since taking office in 2021 Congressman Pfluger has remained deeply committed to strengthening our national defense. He currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee to critical platforms from which he continues to represent and lead. He is the chairman of the Republican Study Committee and serves as the chairman of the Air Force Academy's Board of Visitors, appointed to the BOV by the speaker of the house in 2023 and elected by his colleagues to serve as chair. Whether in the halls of Congress or in the cockpit, Congressman Pfluger's career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to courageous service and leadership. Congressman Pfluger, welcome to Long Blue Leadership. Rep. August Pfluger 1:44 Thank you, Naviere. It's honor to be here with you.   Naviere Walkewicz 1:47 Well, we are so glad to have you. And there's something that I want to jump right into, because it really occurred to me how odd this is, but you served for nearly two decades, and when I say nearly two decades in the Air Force, 19 years and four months, and then you pulled the plug, you didn't go to retirement right then. Can we talk about that a little bit? Rep. August Pfluger 2:09 Well, this is not something that most financial advisers would advise you of doing. And I'll tell you, this was a journey in faith, because at almost 20 years. September of 2019, we made a decision, my wife and I made a decision to run for Congress, which meant that we got out of the active duty, joined the Reserve, and started a campaign, something that just a month prior, we had absolutely no intention of doing, and had not even talked about doing. Running for office was something that was always of interest, but certainly not at 19 years and four months. So the opportunity came up, had a couple of phone calls from friends and family to say that the representative who represented my hometown and where I grew up was retiring after 16 years, and a lot of factors. And I'll really take you down this faith journey, a lot of factors happened that we couldn't ignore. And we literally moved back to my hometown of San Angelo that I had not lived in for over 20 years, and started a campaign, which, as you can imagine, was, I mean, it took a lot of courage for my wife, from my family, three little girls, who we uprooted and went through this. But I'm so glad that we did it. But it wasn't without, you know, I can say anxiety and just, you know, the fear, the unknown maybe, and not knowing exactly what would happen. So when you say and use the words, we burned the ships. That was the moment in time that we literally burned the ships and ran a campaign with every piece of our heart and soul. Naviere Walkewicz 3:48 Wow. Well, let's talk about that a little bit, because, you know, we have listeners that make these pivotal moments in their careers. They make these decisions that really shaped them. What was it about that time, other than the incumbent was going to retire. Like, why you? Why then, you know? Let's talk about that a little bit more. Rep. August Pfluger 4:06 Well, this is pre-Covid. And the thought of running for office always sounds good. You know, if you have that interest, you're like, “OK, that'd be great.” Well, then when you kind of get down to the brass tax that you're going to have to put in 14- to 16-hour days and learn how to talk to people about what's important in this district that then it kind of changes things. But honestly, there were signs and things that pointed me and my wife in this direction that we couldn't ignore. And when you look at this type of district, I mean, it's really, in the past 100 years, there's only been about six representatives. So it's not one of those things you say, “Well, maybe we'll wait for next time.” The opportunity was there, there was a window of time. It was about 30 days where we had to make a decision to literally move from northern Virginia back to Texas and start a whole new career. And ended doing so forego the pension for what would now be five or six years, because I've had to work as a reservist to, you know, kind of get back to that point. So there was a financial piece to it. There was a career that was, was going very well that, you know, maybe, are we giving that up? And what happens if we don't win? And then, you know, all these unknowns. So I will say it was, it was definitely the biggest professional decision that I've ever made in my career. Naviere Walkewicz 5:40 So you talked about some of your family members — you had phone calls. It sounds like, your faith and your family are a big part of your decision making. And, when you go forward with things, I think you've talked about your grandfather having been someone that inspired you to go into the Air Force. You know, who are those key players in your family that have really inspired you in your big leadership decisions. Rep. August Pfluger 6:02 Yes, you're right. I had two grandfathers that served in World War II. One was a pilot, and that that led me to make the first decision to go to the Air Force Academy. And that stayed with me. We had nobody in my family who was in politics. I mean, not a single person. In fact, a lot of my family, I had several great uncles and different family members that I'm close to, and they said, “What?” Like, ”What are — you sure you want to do this? And why? Don't you have a really good Air Force career and you've been able to, you know, rise in the ranks and all the things that you've tried to do?” But I honestly — it was kind of a word of wisdom to say, “If you're going to do this, have some good reasons.” Like, “Why do you want to do this?” And the district that I get to represent in my hometown, we have military bases, agriculture and energy, and I love all three of those things. And I think of those as national security-level entities that really dovetail very nicely with my first part of my professional career. Naviere Walkewicz 7:14 That makes sense. So it really was an extension — this new path in your journey was really an extension of what you had done in uniform and active duty and now being able to give it back to your hometown district and the patrons in there as well. Rep. August Pfluger 7:30 Absolutely. And in the campaign I talked about how important it was to be able to provide our own food. We have a lot of cattle ranchers there that are in my district, that you don't want to be dependent on some other country, especially an adversarial country, for your food needs. And the same thing for energy production: that you can't be dependent for energy needs on your adversaries. So those were things that I was able to really talk about, and I mean, oh my gosh, after I actually was elected and got into office, I mean, they became front and center and still are of that discussion. And I think that was the really interesting piece about having been deployed. We were stationed all over the world, almost seven years outside of the United States, on three different continents, and to be able to tie it together and kind of bring that back home and communicate why this place where I grew up and now where I live and where I represent is so important to our national security? Naviere Walkewicz 8:29 Well, you talked a little bit about earlier, about you weren't sure if you were going to get elected, and then when you did, you had to go out and talk to people and really understand the challenges. What is that journey like when it's completely new, right? It's not the same. It's you're not getting into a cockpit. You're not an instructor pilot now. Now you are — you're representing all of them. How do you how do you approach that new path? Because I think that's something when our leaders take this leap of faith and they're looking at, well, how do I approach it? It's completely different from anything I've done. I think they'd like to know how you did it so well. Rep. August Pfluger 8:59 Well, thanks for the question. It was a huge challenge in being a squadron commander, having been an instructor pilot or a mission commander, and having led in actual combat, that that was everything. I mean, I didn't know anything about politics, but what I did know was how to map out a plan and how to put the pieces and parts together. And I knew that nobody was going to outwork me. I mean, come on, you know, when you have a SAMI on Saturday morning, you got to wake up and make your bed and do all the things to get that weekend pass. I mean, you're going to work hard. And so I knew that I had a competitive advantage on the work ethic and the ability to plan and so really, the thing that I realize now, now six years later, is that I think people — what they really appreciated was that I wasn't a career politician, that the things that I was saying and campaigning on were like true passions, and they weren't empty promises. I told them this is what I'm going to do, and I'm proud to report I've done every single one of those things that I told them that I would do, and it's because we were instructed so well, both at school and then as members of the active-duty Air Force about how to follow through and be persistent and just carry through with what you said you're going to do. I mean, integrity is a big piece of this, but I will tell you also that now staying in touch after being elected, elected, I travel throughout these 20 counties all the time, and you have to have some thick skin, because you're going to get some feedback from people that is not always flattering, and they're going to ask you, “Well, why did you vote this way, or what happened here, and why are you not doing this? And this is expensive.” And, I mean, so you have to be willing to take that feedback, which, by the way, sitting in a fighter pilot debrief — I mean, that was the perfect training for having thick skin, to understand that what people are trying to tell you: Is it critical? Without substance? That you really need to listen to them and try to solve these problems? Naviere Walkewicz 11:07 So earlier, you had talked about, I think there are these things that you did at the Academy. No one is going to outwork you have. You always been that type of person, someone that, you know, just kind of works really hard. Or is that something that you kind of developed at the Academy. Rep. August Pfluger 11:21 I developed it at the Academy. But I would say I came in with a with a good work ethic and then was challenged by our classmates, who are amazing, you know? It's like, “Oh my gosh, I'm really not that smart and not that fast and not that… you know, whatever,” because you see all these amazing people. But yes, work ethic was, I mean, I look at it now, having administered how many nominations to service academies? I mean, dozens and dozens of kids that I've gotten a chance to work with over the past five years who are absolutely incredible. I'm like, I don't know if I could get in at this point in time, because they're just incredible. And I had to work very hard at everything I ever did, everything I ever achieved, was because of hard work. It wasn't because I was the best. It was because I just, at the end of the day, worked very hard to get it. I think that's something that's a lesson that we learned during four years at the Academy, but it served me very well in this profession. Naviere Walkewicz 12:22 Was there a particular time at the Academy where you worked really hard and it didn't go your way? And, you know, how did you overcome that? Because I think sometimes the outcome is, “If I if I give it all and I work really hard, I'm going to get to where I want to go.” And if that wasn't the case, how did that actually change the trajectory or shape you? Rep. August Pfluger 12:42 There were multiple times at the Academy that you work hard for something. I mean, I came in as a recruited athlete, had some injuries, and so didn't get a chance to finish all four years that that was hard to go through that process, and it just didn't work out. And or you're just not good enough. And then that was the case too for me, on the football team. But they're just better people, which is awesome and that, but that shaped who I am now, because it is not just about how hard you work. That's a huge piece of it. But you also have to have good timing. You have to have some luck. You have to be in the right place and have been brought up by the right people. And when the when the opportunity strikes you, you've got to be able to take advantage of that timing to do that. And that those lessons — I absolutely remember that there was one instance where I really, really wanted to go to do this exchange program in Egypt, and they were going to bring some of the political science department over there. Well, apparently my grades were not in the right area to be selected for this program. I think I was an alternate or something, unless that's good, that's — it's not nothing. But I was very disappointed, because I thought I worked hard, you know, maybe not hard enough on the grades, but had worked hard to be a part of the conversation, to go. Well, didn't get a chance to do it. So always had that in the back of my mind. Well, I went to Egypt, but it was as a congressman. I led a congressional delegation of six or seven members. We met with the president of Egypt and had very serious conversations about the negotiation for what Gaza has now with the peace deal that we have gotten to and had a, you know, went to the president's palace, got to sit down right next to him and talk to him for over an hour. So I always kept that in the back of my mind that I was going to Egypt one day. Naviere Walkewicz 14:37 That's right. And honestly, you worked really, really hard. You didn't get there, but it kept you — kept that fire going, because you knew at some point you're going to, so it did end up working out, in that case, for sure. You know, one of the things that I find really interesting and fascinating about you is, as you talk about these different experiences you've had, you said they've shaped you. And when you're in the military, can you share a time when you maybe we're in a position that it wasn't what you'd hoped for. You thought it was going to be, but you found it to be incredibly rewarding. Was there anything in that kind of space that happened to you? Rep. August Pfluger 15:10 Yes, several times. You know you want things, you think you want things, and then it doesn't work out. You don't get selected. And always in the back of my mind, every young lieutenant wants to be a weapons officer wants to then be a squadron commander of a fighter squadron, and that's just the competitive side of this. And I was no different when it came time to select who the next squadron commanders were going to be. I'll never forget: My operations group commander came to be and he said, “Well, we got a problem. We have six really talented lieutenant colonels. You're all promoted below the zone, and we have four squadrons, so we're going to have to figure out a Plan B for a couple of you, and I've got something in mind for you.” He said, “I think that you should go be a deployed squadron, commander of an OSS, an operational support squadron.” He said, “We've got a war going on, a conflict with ISIS, and you'd be great.” Well, that's not exactly an easy conversation to go home and to tell your spouse: “Oh, I just got told that I was going to deploy. I'm not going to be a fighter squadron commander here. I'm going to go somewhere else, and I'll be gone a year.” So that was hard, but oh my goodness, what an experience professionally. Obviously, I missed my family, but this was the height of the conflict against ISIS. I had hundreds of people that I got a chance to work with, command, flying combat missions, doing something that mattered, working with our international partners. You know, we were on an Emirati base, and so I worked with the Emiratis on a daily basis, because we had almost 20 different weapon systems, 20 different aircraft there and it was the highlight of my professional career. So God had a plan. It worked out much better than I could have ever engineered, and it turned out — minus the fact that I had to be gone for a year; obviously, nobody likes that — but it turned out to be the best professional year of my Air Force career. Naviere Walkewicz 17:13 I find that really interesting because that — so would that have been the last kind of position you held before going into the move for Congress? Is that correct? Rep. August Pfluger 17:24 You know, actually, I came back — was PCSed to the Pentagon, worked for the chief of staff of the Air Force, General Goldfein, OK, went to a year of War College equivalent in D.C., a fellowship program, and then was assigned to the White House, to the National Security Council, for just about two and a half months before we made — three months before we made the decision to run for Congress. Naviere Walkewicz 17:49 So just a couple things happened after that. [Laughs]. What an amazing run, and the amazing leaders that you got to work with. So was that experience that when you were deployed as a squadron commander and then coming back, did that help shape your thoughts specifically to the Congress role, because you talked about the very three important things, right? Energy, you know, national security and there was one more… and agriculture. Thank you. And so, you know, did that all kind of get settled in when you were in that transition piece from, you know, squadron commander, to your time at the Pentagon in the White House area. Rep. August Pfluger 18:26 Absolutely, I had a year as a deployed squadron commander, came back and worked a year at the Pentagon, which I didn't know how lucky that was. Most people get there two or three years, but work directly for the chief of staff. Heard all of the conversations between Gen. Goldfein and Secretary Heather Wilson and then had a year where I studied at a think tank on Middle East policy. It could not have been a better education with a little bit of time in the White House to prepare me to run for Congress. You look back on that, you go, “Oh, so that's why.” “Oh, these steps were to prepare for this job now,” which I mean, just the fact that, as a member of Congress, I've probably met with 10 or 15 heads of states, one on one, presidents from different countries around the world, and to have that education, to be able to speak intelligently, at least somewhat intelligently, on these issues. Took that the steps that I just went through right there. Naviere Walkewicz 19:31 And you know, something that I think is really interesting to what you just said, working with Gen. Goldfein and with Secretary Wilson, you know, there are so few Academy graduates that have had the opportunities to serve in Congress and to be in the role that you are. How many Academy, Air Force Academy grads we have now have that have done this? Rep. August Pfluger 19:49 There's two currently serving, myself and Don Davis, opposite sides of the aisle, but great friends, and there were only two prior, so there's only been four. And the first two were Heather Wilson was the first Martha McSally, I'll never forget when I got elected. Heather Wilson called me and she said, “Congratulations, you're finally keeping up with us ladies.” And I thought it was great. But you know, we need more graduates, honestly. And I don't care who's listening to this, what side of the aisle you're on, we need more air force academy graduates. There are nine West Pointers currently serving, and seven from Annapolis currently serving, and we've only had four total. Naviere Walkewicz 20:30 All right, it's out there now. We've got our, you know, got our calling. So here we go. You know, I want to ask you a question about, you know, being in Congress, you are on several committees, and you're in leading roles in them. Let's talk a little bit. First about, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk about the Board of Visitors, because I think it's a great opportunity for our graduates to understand actually what the Board of Visitors actually does. So if you don't mind, kind of sharing in your words, you know what your priorities are with the Board of Visitors and what that looks like. I think it'd be really helpful in educating our listeners. Rep. August Pfluger 21:03 Well. Thank you. It's an honor to be on the Board of Visitors. It's statutorily set up by Congress decades ago, and it basically provides an avenue of oversight, something that is appointed both legislatively, by the speaker of the house and by the Senate majority leader and also the president. And, you know, we've got a number of several grads, but a number of senators and congressmen. And, you know, again, one of these timing things that I didn't necessarily intend to run for the chairmanship, but we needed, I think, a graduate to do that, and am proud to be the chairman of this group. You know, Charlie Kirk was on this board, and what a tragic situation that was. We've got a number of really passionate leaders, and our job really is to interact with the institution, to ask questions and to report back directly to the Secretary of War and into the Secretary of the Air Force on the health and welfare of the institution, on any other issues that we think are important. And for me, kind of the driving principle is that I love this institution, the leadership lessons that I learned there and those that I hear from so many graduates are important well beyond military service. They're important for the rest of a graduate's life. And I want to make sure that everything that is going on there, the resources that are needed there, the schedule and the curriculum and the ability to train the next generation of young warriors, both for the space and the Air Force, are the best in the country, and that we are prepared no matter what, that those graduates can go do their job. So it really is an honor to be on the board, but then to be the chairman of it. Naviere Walkewicz 23:03 I can imagine that, and I think it really speaks volumes, the fact that, you know, you're so passionate about it, you've taken what you've had from the Academy, you've applied it in this role. What are the first things that I think you're looking at? You said you talked about the resources and kind of the schedule and things that are happening at the academy. What are the key things that you're looking at right now as a Board of Visitors? Rep. August Pfluger 23:24 Well, I think to start with, I mean, we all know you wake up early, you go bed late, and you're trying to cram, you know, 28 hours into 24 and so the No. 1 thing that I want to see and work through is, how are we continuing to innovate with the best training possible, so that, you know, you can't teach the solution to every problem, but you want to teach a framework of how to think, and that, you know, there's going to be cadets that are challenged through their academic studies, there's going to be cadets that are challenged through their military studies. There's going to be cadets that are challenged athletically, and some that get all three of those, obviously, we all get got all three. But no matter which piece of the puzzle fills, you know, their time, they should get the training that teaches them how to respond in stressful situations, that teaches them how to function as a team, and that that offers them the opportunity to honestly, to experience a little bit of failure, while also knowing that success is right down the road, and that with a little grit, a little determination and a little persistence, that they're going to get there, and that is a challenge, I mean, In a resource-confined environment that we have right now that that's a big challenge, but that's why we have legislators, Senators and House members, They can go fight for those resources to make sure that they're getting that training that they need. Naviere Walkewicz 24:56 Thank you for sharing that you know, I think when you talk about having that framework to critically work through whatever is coming at you, and, you know, fighting for resources. Can you share what is the greatest challenge that you're faced with right now and how you're working through it? Rep. August Pfluger 25:11 Yeah, absolutely. I mean, just, you know, from a military standpoint, I'm obviously very biased on what air power and space power does I mean the army will deploy to certain locations. In the Navy will deploy to certain locations. But the Air Force and the Space Force are everywhere. We're in every theater. We've been in every conflict. We are the constant and I don't think resource wise, that that our Department of the Air Force is receiving the resources that it needs proportionately speaking to the threat that we face. We're the smallest and the oldest that we've ever been, and we need to change that immediately. As chairman — you mentioned I was chairman of the Republican Study Committee. What is that? Well, it's a 189-member caucus, committee, policy committee...   Naviere Walkewicz 26:01 It's the largest one, right?   Rep. August Pfluger 26:02 It's huge. It's the largest committee in Congress, and we meet weekly with Cabinet members and other leaders to discuss policy. But this has been something that I've been passionate about, which we have to take advantage of an environment where some more resources are being put towards our military, and I want to make sure that a larger portion of those go to the Department of the Air Force to meet the threat. And that's just a neat opportunity that it's a competitive election. I had to get elected by my peers. You know, 188 other congressmen and women from across the country. I had to run an election to get elected to it, and now trying to communicate to them why the business of Air and Space power is so important, but, but I'm we're slowly but surely getting there. Naviere Walkewicz 26:53 Well, I'm not sure where you have time when you're you know, you're doing so many things, you're on the road, meeting with your constituents. You're leading. You know these major committees, the Board of Visitors, as chair. Can you talk about how you're balancing? You know, you always talked about being your family is really important to you. How are you balancing that? What does that look like for someone in a leadership role? Rep. August Pfluger 27:13 Well, it's obviously the biggest challenge that any of us face, which is making sure that you take care of the most fundamental and important piece of your life, which is your family and being gone. I mean, I go to Washington, D.C., on Monday, and generally come home Thursday or Friday, and that's about three weeks out of every four. So my wife, is the most important piece of this, because she allows me to do this, and I couldn't do it without her, honestly. And then secondly, you know, we had a scare this summer because two of my girls were at Camp Mystic. And you know, that was that really brought things back to such a fundamental level that, you know, my No. 1 job on this earth is to be a husband and a father, a person of faith. And I'll tell you that that was, that was a transformational moment in it, just in my in my life, because when you have two daughters that were that thankfully came home and in then you see 27 others that didn't, that they knew that we knew the families and we were close to that. This has put everything back into perspective, that the service that I'm doing should be focused on a foundation of family and faith, and that none of it matters if you don't take care of that. Naviere Walkewicz 28:41 So what does that look like in how you lead? How does that shape the decisions you make in your role in Congress, as a reservist? And then for our listeners, you know, how do they put those important things first in the midst of having to make other decisions professionally? Rep. August Pfluger 29:01 I think a lot of it is, maybe not so much, the “what” in the decision, but it's the “how,” you know, you carry yourself, and you know on the other side of the aisle. I mean, I'm going to fight policies that I don't agree with all day long. But I think the how I do that, what I want my daughters to know is that they had a dad that was very firm in his beliefs. So I think that's, you know, when I look at it kind of like from the, “OK, what's important?” OK, being a good dad, not just saying the right things, but actually going and carrying those out. I think the how you carry them out is really important. And then, you know the specifics of legislation. There are things that, if I believe in in taking care of the American family, then there are things that I'm going to advocate for, not, not to make this to political of a discussion, but I think you can see through my track record that that I have focused on those things that would help strengthen the family, Naviere Walkewicz 30:08 The “how” is really, it's part of your legacy, right? And I think that's what your children are seeing as well, in the way that you, you, you do what you do. And I think as leaders, that's something really important to be thinking about. So I'm really thankful that you shared that example. Shared that example. Have you found that your leadership style has evolved, or has it already always been kind of rooted in you know, who you've been and you've just kind of tweaked it a little bit? Or have you seen yourself evolve more than you would have expected? Rep. August Pfluger 30:40 Yes, it has evolved, but, and I hope for the better, we'd have to ask others what they think of that, but, but, you know, look, growing up in a professionally in a fighter squadron, there were three tenants that they even though I didn't go to weapon school, they teach you this to be humble, credible and approachable. I mean, think about that. Those are the core tenants of who our lead warriors are, and that is not what you see. When you think of politicians. You think, Well, they're braggadocious and annoying. And you know, OK, and I hope I don't fall into that category. I need to do some self-reflection every once while, but, but I've got a staff of almost 40 people, and I have 434 other colleagues that you have to work with. So you better believe that you've got to be humble because there are people who are better than you in every category. You better believe that being approachable in this job is really important, because people are going to come to you and they're going to need something, or you're going to need something from them, and if you don't have the credibility of what you're talking about or what you're leading, then you're not going to get anything done. And so I've really had to work on all three of those things since I was elected to make sure that tying that to a servant leadership model. We started out in 2021, and I told my team, I said, we are going to do everything we possibly can to make other people that I am working with, other congressmen and women better. And they said, Wait, what? I said, Yeah, this isn't about me getting the limelight. We will get plenty of limelight, but let's work on giving other people the credit, giving other people the opportunities, calling on their expertise, pushing them up. And it will all work out, and we will achieve everything we wanted to achieve for the district that I represent, and it was just like this lightning bolt of it was so antithetical to the way that many people in Congress think. And I am not saying that we have changed the world, but when you're elected to basically a conference-wide position like I am, then you really have hard conversations with people, and those conversations people said, You know what, you've helped me out. I'm going to vote for you. And that meant everything, Naviere Walkewicz 33:08 Humble, approachable, credible, what great lessons for our leaders. And I think that translates across anything you're doing. Of the three, it seems that credible would probably be the hardest to achieve, right? It's a time-based thing. How would you recommend that our leaders, especially those that are growing in their leadership roles, achieve that when they don't necessarily have the time right in? Rep. August Pfluger 33:38 It's so hard, but that grit, that determination, I mean, the study, the thing, all the things we learned, you know, it's like they give you. The academic instructors are like a torture chamber, because they know you can't study everything, so you have to prioritize, which is a lesson I think I still draw on today. But I think that credibility comes from if you're going to be an expert in something, you've got to study it. You've got to know it, and people have to trust you. So when you tell them something, it has to be the truth, and they have to know well, I don't know that particular policy issue, but I know Pfluger does, because, you know he did that in his career. He studied that. So I think that grit and that determination and the prioritization of your time is so important, you can't do it all. I mean, we just can't. You have to. You have to make a choice, and those choices have to then go towards the goals that you're setting for yourself. Naviere Walkewicz 34:32 Excellent, excellent lessons. So you've accomplished so much since 2021, you know? What's next? What are you trying to work towards next? Rep. August Pfluger 34:43 I mean, there's so many different like policy issues I'm not going to bore you with. Let's just talk about the big picture, the elephant in the room, which is how divided our country is, and it's heartbreaking to see. You know, I think back to like, the aftermath of 911 I literally 911 happened two weeks prior to my pilot training graduation. You as a Class of '99 were right in the same boat. I mean, we were our professional careers were turned upside down, but our country came together, and that that was kind of the I think that that was the best thing to see how many people that were divided on whatever lines kind of came together. We're very divided, and it is hard to see and from I want to see an end of the radical sides of our parties and a normal conversation. We should be able to have a normal debate in Congress about whatever issues of spending and things like that. And we should be able to then slap each other on the back and say, Yeah, good job you won that one. Or, you know, good job I won this one. That should be kind of the norm. And I've got so many good friends who are Democrats that it's there, but the pull to radicalization is it's alive and well. And to be honest, this is why we need more Academy graduates who are doing this type of work, whether it's running for local office or running for Congress or Senate or whatever, because we get it. We get it from being a part of something that was greater than ourselves and being a part of a mission that it wasn't about, I it was literally about the team of success. And I think it's, it's veterans that are in these leadership positions that are going to help be a part of this, so that that really, I really do want to see that that doesn't mean that I'm not going to fight tooth and nail for policy that I believe in, which is partisan at times. And I'm OK with that, but what I'm not OK with is demonizing somebody for having a different belief. Let's go fight the merits of it, but not, not the character of the other person. Naviere Walkewicz 37:03 Thank you for sharing that. I think, you know, just putting the elephant on the table, I think, is really important. That's what it is about conversation. It's about dialog and so thank you for sharing that. For sure, this has been an incredible conversation. We've kind of navigated different parts of your career, you know, your leadership journey, maybe, if I could ask you this, what is something you're doing every day, Congressman Pfluger, to be better? Rep. August Pfluger 37:29 I think, in faith life, really trying to tie in spiritually, and to not be the one in control, trying to be more present in in my family's life, I'm going to give you three or four. So, you know, just being more intentional, putting the phone down, like if I'm going to sit down with my kids and be there, because I could be on the phone 24 hours a day. So put the phone down, talk to my wife be engaged, and that that's really that, that, I think that's a challenge for anybody who is in any adult right now, quite frankly, but especially those that are in leadership positions, which all of our graduates are, and so just put the phone down and being engaged, and it's hard. It's like, “Oh, I got to take care of this, you know, I got to call that person back. We've got to do this.” But you know that is, I think that that is probably the No. 1 thing that then allows a stronger faith life, a stronger relationship with my family. Physically, still taking the Air Force PT test, got a 99 last year. Was very proud of that and so trying to stay physically fit.   Naviere Walkewicz 38:48 That's outstanding!   Rep. August Pfluger 38:49 There are some other graduates who have challenged me with that. You may know Joel Neeb? A classmate of yours.   Naviere Walkewicz 38:58 Oh yeah! I know Thor.   Rep. August Pfluger 39:00 Thor is awesome. And he's been such an inspiration. I could name 100 people, but he said he's a really good inspiration to so many people. And on all the things that you just the things that I answered for your question, he's been a good inspiration on. Naviere Walkewicz 39:15 I would agree with that wholeheartedly. Yes. Well, thank you for that. Can you also share, you know, knowing what you know now through the years that you've experienced, you know your hardships, the triumphs — what would you share with our growing leaders that they can do today to help them be stronger down the road? Rep. August Pfluger 39:37 You know, I think some self-reflection, like, how do you see yourself, and how does the world see you? And is this — does it match up? Because if it's different, if your opinion of yourself is higher than that of what other people are thinking and your work ethic and what you're bringing to the to the table, then then you need to do some self-reflection. And I again, I got back to my career as a fighter pilot, which was perfect for politics. You know, you got to learn to work as a team. You have people debriefing you, and there's critical thoughts on your actions, of how you perform. But I think any leader, it needs to first have the grit to be able to stick with it. It's not always the best person that gets the job, but I can promise you, the person who keeps seeking that job and has that drive, they're going to get there. That has been the story of my life and self-reflection, to go What's stopping me from getting there is probably the key, as long as you have that grit, that self-reflection, to have some clarity for whatever goal you want to achieve. That's my humble opinion of what I would tell myself 15 years ago. Naviere Walkewicz 41:00 Wow. And I think that does kind of give us a moment to just sit in it and think about that as we are, you know, trying to be our best selves and to continue to evolve as leaders. What a great way to do that, right? Just reflect some self-reflection. I want to make sure we have an opportunity. If there's anything that I didn't ask you, that you feel is really important to share with our listeners. What would that be? Rep. August Pfluger 41:24 Well, there were a couple of things. No. 1, I was trying to think back — because your Class of '99 and I'm Class of 2000 — on whether or not I had to get in the front-leaning rest and recite John Stuart Mill's poem, or not. I can't remember that, so maybe I snuck by.   Naviere Walkewicz 41:45 Definitely a front-leaning rest kind of gal. I have pretty strong abs. I can handle that.   Rep. August Pfluger 41:51 You know, I just, I want to go back to what how important our institution is, because we're in that other dimension. We're in the air, in the space domain. We're solving problems in our professional career that I mean, think about where we've come since the Wright Brothers demonstrated we could fly and now, you know all the things that we're doing in air and space, and that's because of our graduates. And you know, I just, I really want to have a call out to our graduates that your leadership in a variety of ways is needed. It's needed in the business community, in Fortune 500 companies. It's needed in your local communities. It's needed at the national level of politics; there are several candidates for Congress right now who are graduates. I'm helping them, and I will help anybody. I don't care what party you are, of course, I have my favorite, but I will help any person who is looking to run for something like this. This is what I know now. But we really do need your leadership in order to bring the temperature down, to unite our country, to make sure that we're going to be successful. It's not if it's a matter of when we're going to face that next big, truly existential threat and challenge to our country. And guess what? I trust the people that were right there next to be in the front, winning rest, reciting all of those quotes and having to do a little bit harder of a standard in our four years of education than other institutions. And so I trust our graduates, but we need you, and we really need you to take that opportunity and serve in any possible way that you can. Naviere Walkewicz 43:45 Wow. Thank you for sharing that. I think that that is a perfect way a call to action, so to speak, for all of us you know the service after the service, so this has been incredible. Congressman Pfluger, thank you for your time today. Rep. August Pfluger 43:57 Well, Naviere, thank you for reaching so many graduates and looking forward to a Bitton Army and Navy again next year. Naviere Walkewicz 44:04 That's right next year. Well, you know, as I reflect on this conversation, you know, one theme really rises above others, courage, the grit, you know, not just the courage we often associate with the battlefield or moments of crises, but the quiet, steady courage that it takes to lead with conviction every day, Congressman Pfluger reminded us that true leadership means standing firm in your values even when the path may be uncertain or the stakes may be high, it's the kind of courage that doesn't seek comfort, but instead answers to responsibility. So as you think about your own leadership journey, ask yourself, Where is courage calling you? Where is that grit gonna take you? Whether it's in the workplace, in your community or your personal life, lean into those moments, because courage, real, principled, humble, courage is what transforms good leaders into great ones. Thank you for listening to this edition of Long Blue Leadership. If you know someone who needs encouraging words in their leadership journey, please share this podcast with them as well. I'm Naviere Walkewicz. Until next time.   KEYWORDS August Pfluger, Long Blue Leadership Podcast, U.S. Air Force Academy, leadership lessons, congressional service, fighter pilot, national security, grit and resilience, service after service, Air Force Board of Visitors, faith and family leadership, career transition, public service, humble credible approachable, air and space power.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation    

Today's guest has carved out one of the most improbable creative legacies of his generation — commanding animation, comedy, film, and orchestral music with the same relentless discipline and near-obsessive craft. What began as a kid sketching characters in his bedroom grew into a fight to build Family Guy on his own terms… and eventually into Grammy-nominated big-band records that honor the very foundations of American music.And The Writer Is... Seth MacFarlane!On this episode, Seth breaks down the discipline, taste, and obsessive craft that shaped his creative life… and the standards he refuses to compromise, no matter the project. Dive deep into his roots, heroes, influences, and biggest challenges building his creative legacy.A special thank you to our sponsors...Our lead sponsor, NMPA, aka the National Music Publisher's Association.Your support means the world to us!And @splice — the best sample library on the market, period.Chapter list:0:00:00 – Teaser0:01:06 – Welcome & Episode Intro0:03:12 – Seth's Early Creative Roots: Drawing, Music & Comedy0:08:40 – Developing Discipline as a Young Artist0:12:55 – The First Breakthroughs in Animation0:16:33 – Fighting for Family Guy and Holding the Vision0:18:15 – The Influence of 80s TV Scores and John Williams0:21:48 – How Taste Shapes Every Creative Decision0:25:30 – The Craft Behind Writing Comedy That Lasts0:30:02 – Why Orchestration Matters So Deeply to Him0:34:44 – Recording His Sinatra Albums & The Pursuit of Precision0:38:55 – Balancing Film, TV & Music at a High Level0:43:22 – Obsession, Work Ethic & Sustaining a Long Creative Career0:45:45 – Diving into the Rat Pack Era and Vocal Legends0:47:14 – Collaboration, Standards & Protecting the Work0:52:33 – What He's Learned About Longevity in Entertainment0:56:26 – The Role of Curiosity in Every Chapter of His Career1:00:08 – The Mindset Behind Creative Risk1:03:03 – His Advice for Multi-Hyphenate Creators1:05:23 – Seth's Final Message to Artists1:07:19 – Closing Thoughts1:09:30 – Navigating Fame, Fan Encounters, and Meeting Icons Like John Williams & William Shatner1:15:45 – Final Appreciation for Preserving Classic MusicHosted by Ross GolanProduced by Joe London and Jad SaadWatercolor by Michael White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Segment 1: Tom Gimbel, job expert and founder of LaSalle Network, joins Wendy Snyder to talk about the sacrifices you have to make if you want to be great. ‘Sometimes trying to be great is lonely.’ Segment 2: Philippe Weiss, President, Seyfarth at Work, joins Wendy Snyder to talk about how quality customer service in America seems to have […]

Speaker: Adam GodshallSeries: 2 Thessalonians: Be Faithful until Christ ReturnsText: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15Theme: Demonstrate Faithfulness by Rejecting Laziness in Your Daily Work Ethic One: Laziness...is a bad influence. Two: Laziness...needs a good example. Three: Laziness...suffers a practical consequence. Four: Laziness...warrants a firm instruction. Five: Laziness...can be exchanged for faithfulness. If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:10

A new track from Kumail and also Kyla Kilzer & Max Noir, both of which we have just released on Tru Thoughts. Soul from Kyra and Mica Paris (produced by Omar). Deep sounds from Matters Unknown. Rap from AG, Homeboy Sandman, and Kofi Stone (from his excellent new album). Gospel Boogie from Work Ethic. A great building club track from Hazards Of Prophecy. Broken Beat from Oliver Night and Kenny Dope. Cengiz remixes Sunbörn Meets Clap! Clap!. An influential tune from Phil Asher. A heavy tune from Mungo's Hi Fi x Charlie P. Plus plenty more music treats.

Danny Jenkins — Founder of ThreatLocker and the Zero-Trust RevolutionDanny Jenkins is the CEO of ThreatLocker, the leading cybersecurity company that he built alongside his wife. Hosts Jack Clabby of Carlton Fields, P.A., and Kayley Melton of the Cognitive Security Institute follow Danny's journey from a scrappy IT consultant to leading one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity companies in the world.Danny shares the moment everything changed: watching a small business nearly collapse after a catastrophic ransomware attack. That experience reshaped his mission and ultimately sparked the creation of ThreatLocker. He also reflects on the gritty early days—cold-calling from his living room, coding through the night, and taking on debt before finally landing their first $5,000 customer.Danny explains the origins of Zero Trust World, his passion for educating IT teams, and why adopting a hacker mindset is essential for modern defenders.In the Lifestyle Polygraph, Danny relates his early “revenge tech” against school bullies, the place he escapes to when celebrating big wins, and the movie franchise he insists is absolutely a Christmas classic.Follow Danny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyjenkins/ 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and ThreatLocker02:26 The Birth of ThreatLocker: A Personal Journey05:42 The Evolution of Zero Trust Security08:35 Real-World Impact of Cyber Attacks11:25 The Importance of a Hacker Mindset14:46 The Role of SOC Teams in Cybersecurity17:34 Building a Culture of Security20:23 Hiring for Passion and Skill in Cybersecurity23:44 Understanding Zero Trust: Trust No One26:32 Lifestyle Polygraph: Personal Insights and Fun29:41 Conclusion and Future of ThreatLocker

Become known for your commitment and excellence. These affirmations are designed to strengthen your work ethic, helping you to tackle tasks with focus and persevere through challenges with a resilient mindset. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app:  Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Become known for your commitment and excellence. These affirmations are designed to strengthen your work ethic, helping you to tackle tasks with focus and persevere through challenges with a resilient mindset. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app:  Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, "No Substitute for Work," we dive into the timeless value of purposeful effort—something my Southern grandmother, Mimi, modeled daily as she hand-whipped meringue with a fork and raked leaves from the big oak tree without complaint. Her quiet diligence reflected an era when hard work was both a rhythm and a reward. We'll explore how that work ethic has evolved through history, the lasting benefits of meaningful labor, and how to define an ideal work-lifestyle that balances purpose with peace. In a world obsessed with shortcuts and automation, this episode reminds us that while tools can help, there's still no true substitute for the fulfillment that comes from honest, dedicated work. We cover a brief definition of purposeful work, work ethic, benefits of work and defining your ideal work-lifestyle. Full article here: https://goalsforyourlife.com/no-substitute-for-work Power of After Consulting GPT: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-691787898e8881919af941dc6a84c40b-power-of-after-consulting-gpt Click here for Personalized Mentorship: https://goalsforyourlife.com/personalized-mentorship Get POWER OF AFTER BOOK HERE: https://amzn.to/3GpEGlJ Make sure you're getting all our podcast updates and articles! Get them here: https://goalsforyourlife.com/newsletter Resources with tools and guidance for mid-career individuals, professionals & those at the halftime of life seeking growth and fulfillment: http://HalftimeSuccess.com  #timelessvalues #purposefulwork #quietdiligence #workethic #quietdiligence CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:40 - Purposeful Effort Value 06:12 - History of Work Ethic 08:51 - Benefits of Work 13:22 - Work-Life Balance 15:58 - Ideal Work Lifestyle 20:14 - Core Principles of Work 22:24 - Self-Reflection Questions 24:31 - Outro

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityTransform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into one sleek, digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Jeremy Hoyle, leadership coach and veteran of the family entertainment industry. Jeremy shares his personal journey from frontline worker to senior executive, emphasizing the importance of investing in your own professional development. The conversation delves into EOS and business fundamentals, with practical advice on leveraging KPIs and accountability to drive growth.00:00 "Work Ethic and Ownership"05:23 Leadership & Business Coaching Journey10:44 "Dependability and Leadership Value"19:37 "Building Layers for Growth"23:39 "Improving Call Conversion Rates"31:02 "Leaders Need Accountability Systems"35:09 "Missed Conversations and Discipline"38:26 Teaching Accountability Through Standards45:05 "Mopping Mishaps and Frustrations"50:12 "Policing Standards and Staffing"56:50 Linchpins vs. Industrial-Era Education01:03:09 "Struggles of Running a Shop"01:03:49 "Sell the Shop"

There are many things in this world that we can't control, but there are two things we can control. Listen as Fr. Ben reveals those two things and how one can utilize them for the overall good of the world. Got a question you'd like to ask Fr. Ben? You can submit questions and topic ideas for the podcast through Facebook, or you could email us at soulfoodpriestmemphis@gmail.com. The questions can be on faith or food! You can also follow us on Facebook and YouTube at Soul Food Priest. Thanks for listening!

From certificate worship to critical thinking: Why your education ends where real success begins - and the daily habit that separates achievers from dreamers. In this transformative episode of Konnected Minds, Aisini Aman returns with unfiltered wisdom that demolishes the certificate-chasing mentality keeping young Africans trapped in employment fantasies. With his signature mystical positivity, he exposes a fundamental truth: the education system deliberately limits your thinking to keep you seeking jobs instead of creating value. The conversation cuts deep into the emotional warfare of entrepreneurship - dealing with people who chop your money, navigating daily problems that threaten to derail your vision, and the principle of never deviating from core truth. Aman reveals why sticking to intrinsic values like honesty, compassion, and work ethic matters more than any material gain, and why nations that sacrifice human value for wealth eventually destroy themselves with guns and knives. He challenges the colonial ideology that not everyone can be an entrepreneur, pointing to the graduate sitting at home with village land perfect for cassava farming. "Entrepreneurship is solving problems," he declares, "there's nothing magical about it." The episode exposes how physical colonization extended into knowledge colonization, making Africans believe their own innovations are worthless while chasing validation from New York and London. Critical revelations include: • Why your certificate is not proof of education - the resource you produce is • The topology principle: the further you move from core truth, the less successful you become • Why there's a difference between having money and having joy, value, and fulfillment • How stealing from others is actually stealing from yourself - a principle of wealth creation • The daily habit that guarantees long-term success: knowledge acquisition every day • Why Ghanaian musicians gain traction from home, not abroad - your roots are your strength • The religion test: does it promote love, truth, and justice, or financial ignorance disguised as faith? • Why God giving everyone talent means everyone can be somebody From watching YouTube videos to buying CDs before the internet era, Aman demonstrates that continuous learning is non-negotiable for success. He dismantles the lie that some people must remain poor to serve the rich, revealing how robots and machines can handle dignity-stripping work while humans focus on innovation. The conversation reaches its peak with a provocative question about leadership: do those in power not know the truth, or do they know but deliberately keep people confused? Aman's answer cuts through the confusion: "You cannot really have the truth and teach lies. If your teaching is right, why are the people confused? Why are they begging for visas to jump out?" This isn't motivation - it's a systematic breakdown of the design systems that bring results. From financial principles to entrepreneurship frameworks to the anthropology of truth, Aman provides clarity of thought as the true form of success. He challenges the ideology that keeps Africans creating content for international audiences who barely watch, when the real traction comes from home. The episode concludes with wisdom about daily habits: knowledge acquisition through reading, searching, watching, and learning - the compound interest of personal development that transforms dreamers into achievers. This is the unfiltered truth about why clarity, core values, and continuous learning matter more than certificates, why your roots are your strength, and why the treasure of creation is human value that must never be sacrificed for material gain. Host: Derrick Abaitey IG: https://www.instagram.com/derrick.abaitey YT: https://www.youtube.com/@DerrickAbaitey Join Konnected Academy: https://konnectedacademy.com/ Listen to the podcast on: Apple Podcast - http://tinyurl.com/4ttwbdxe Spotify - http://tinyurl.com/3he8hjfp Join this channel: /@konnectedminds FOLLOW ► https://linktr.ee/konnectedminds #Podcast #businesspodcast #AfricanPodcast

There's been a lot of chatter about the state of the American economy lately. What's real and what's not? Our intrepid host, Mike Slater, seeks to answer these questions and pontificate on work ethic in one epic opening segment!Following that first segment, Slater speaks to U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) about his recent legislative efforts related to banks in this country and what the heck is going on in the swamp of Washington, D.C. Don't miss this hard-hitting interview! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textForget highlight reels—this conversation lives where the work actually happens. We sit down with coach and former arena pro AJ Saunders for a grounded ride through high school football, family balance, and a hospital IT career that runs on urgency and trust. AJ opens up about a 5–5 season with Plum High School, a wild blocked field goal turned touchdown, and a playoff exit that still taught the right lessons. He maps out the 5A grind—smarter schemes, bigger bodies, recruiting pressures—and the coaching habits that matter: early scouting, honest communication, and respecting the games you “should” win.The story widens beyond the field. By day, AJ keeps doctors and devices moving inside Highmark/AHN, turning outages into solutions and tech into patient care. He draws straight lines from IT to football: fast teamwork, crisp escalation, systems that hold up under pressure. Then we go personal. Married 11 years, a dad and youth coach, he breaks down how he schedules film around family, uses PTO with intent, and treats “little wins” as the glue that holds everything together. It's practical, real, and repeatable.We rewind to Slippery Rock: the surprise switch from defensive back to running back, a humbling hit in camp, the return to DB under a top-tier coach, and how belief changes players. AJ also pulls back the curtain on arena football—tight walls, high motion, constant evaluations—and candidly shares CFL workouts and NFL looks that didn't stick. The takeaway isn't a near-miss; it's a roadmap: adapt, serve, and invest in the next generation. If you care about coaching, culture, and doing hard things the right way, this one's for you.If the episode hit home, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a review with your favorite takeaway. Your support helps more listeners find real stories that actually help them win the week.Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREETactical BrotherhoodThe Tactical Brotherhood is a movement to support America.Dubby EnergyFROM GAMERS TO GYM JUNKIES TO ENTREPRENEURS, OUR PRODUCT IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BE BETTER.ShankitgolfOur goal here at Shankitgolf is for everyone to have a great time on and off the golf courseSweet Hands SportsElevate your game with Sweet Hands Sports! Our sports gloves are designed for champions,Buddy's Beard CareBuddy's Beard Care provides premium men's grooming products at an affordable price.Deemed FitBe a part of our movement to instill confidence motivation and a willingness to keep pushing forwardDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow us on all social mediaX: @mikebonocomedyInstagram: @mikebonocomedy@tiktok: @mikebono_comedianFacebook: @mikebonocomedy

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERERegister NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Dutch Silverstein and his daughter Ana. Dutch brings up the differences of a transaction-based vs relationship-based business model, urging shop owners to pursue what aligns with their personal values and long-term goals. The conversation highlights the need for self-reflection and sacrifice when considering shop ownership, as well as the dangers of lowering standards in the industry.Timestamps:00:00 Celebrating Your Return03:50 Family-Owned Automotive Safe Haven07:57 Car Repair Frustrations Persist11:43 Mechanic Reputation and Trust14:40 Mechanic's Business Growth Journey16:52 Personal Betrayal in Safe Space20:25 "Coaching Costs and Industry Influence"25:51 "Pursuing Integrity Every Day"28:49 "Sacrifice for Future Success"31:10 "Boost Productivity, Build Wealth"35:13 Work Ethic and Presence37:00 "Training Wheels Off Moment"42:23 "Self-Reflection for Business Growth"43:38 Understanding Business Metrics & Decisions46:31 Avoiding Pitfalls in Business Growth50:25 "Unpaid Work Clarification"53:21 Empowering Technicians for Success Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Diving into the intense work ethic of Danielle Steel, one of the great writers of the 21st century.-----“There are no miracles. There is only discipline.” - Danielle Steel-----2:05 - Trying to make it/The early years6:05 - How she got through the dry patches7:20 - Tiger Woods, "I love this game to death. It's a drug I have to have."8:28 - Make it a priority 9:50 - The thing she came up short in 10:55 - "I just had a need to write. It's a part of my soul."11:05 - Her insane stamina/working abilities13:35 - Capacity for pain15:30 - Increase your capacity18:10 - "Dead or alive, rain or shine, I get to my desk and I do my work."19:35 - A Steven Pressfield story 22:10 - On when she will stop writing: "When I die."23:40 - An old-school approach 25:15 - "When I was first starting out, I had the same agent as Agatha Christie. I was about 19 years old and she was in her nineties. I met her once, and I remember she said, 'I want to die face-first on my typewriter.' And I feel that way. I mean, I want to go on forever, just writing."25:38 - Choose your regrets27:30 - Be a missionary 31:05 - Work like a lion 33:40 - Make quality the deadline35:20 - Alone or lonely? A sign you're doing the right work.36:40 - "I guess I chase excellence."----- NEW BOOKS ARE LIVE. Check them out below.Daily Greatness: Short Stories and Essays on the Act of Becoming Chasing Greatness 2nd Edition - Timeless Stories on the Pursuit of Excellence-----You can check stay connected and support below:WebsiteBooksInstagramXLinkedIn

In today's conversation, Kaylee Felio welcomes her longtime automotive industry friend Ansley Williams to explore the realities of launching a consulting business in the fixed ops space. From overcoming skepticism to building technology solutions for dealership service departments, Ansley shares the lessons learned from navigating her unique path in automotive—and why embracing authenticity (and a little “sprinkles and glitter” energy) is crucial for long-term success.Hear how a career spent “in the trenches” led Ansley to develop actionable tools for dealerships, and why transparency, grit, and data-driven insights matter in a sector often resistant to outside help. Plus: reflections on raising strong daughters, surviving mom-life chaos, and what it really means to challenge the status quo in a male-dominated field.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit

In this special episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses strategies for fostering accountability and work ethic in dance teams with three distinguished coaches—Arianna from Washington, Jenna from Nebraska, and Edwina from New York. Each coach shares her approach to setting high expectations, maintaining motivation, and building a supportive culture where athletes take ownership of their goals. This episode will feel relatable to any dance coach, and will give you actionable strategies you can implement in your next practice.   Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/229   Releve: Dance Coach Membership: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/membership   Episode Breakdown: 00:17 Meet the Coaches 02:09 Defining Work Ethic 09:41 Establishing Expectations 16:24 Maintaining Motivation 23:30 Accountability Strategies 30:50 Reframing Fun and Goals in Dance 31:32 Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth 32:52 Demerit and Merit Systems 34:01 Empowering Leadership and Accountability 40:05 Balancing Mental Toughness and Care 42:29 Building Team Culture and Legacy 50:01 Effective Coaching Strategies 57:37 Final Thoughts and Reflections  

Dave reveals what its like working in an Amazon Business based in China, sourced from a Chinese forum. He talks about the differences of the Chinese vs. American e-commerce businesses, and how they structure their businesses by expanding to multiple marketplaces almost immediately.  Today's episode is sponsored by Sellerboard. Sellerboard helps users track sales, refunds and fees in real time, and even counts your indirect expenses in final profit. Beyond analytics, Sellerboard also streamlines operations with smart portfolios for PPC, inventory forecasting & management and more! Try Sellerboard free for 2 months — no credit card required. Just go to sellerboard.com/ecomcrew and get clarity on your margins today. There was a recent post on a Chinese discussion board looking for advice.  The author recounted all of his previous experiences working at various e-commerce companies that have an Amazon focus and he realized that the Amazon landscape was changing at a pace he couldn't keep up with.  This is particularly helpful for us western e-commerce sellers, because it helps us figure out what the Chinese are doing on Amazon that gets their sales high and prices low.  Timestamps  00:00 - Introduction to Chinese Amazon Sellers' Insights 03:08 - The Journey of a Chinese Amazon Employee 06:03 - Daily Operations and Responsibilities 08:58 - Promotions and Performance Metrics 11:58 - Challenges and Strategies in Product Management 15:00 - Expansion into Domestic Markets 15:18 - Challenges of Management and Promotion 16:09 - Cultural Differences in Work Ethic 17:33 - Advertising Frameworks and Product Launches 19:37 - Developing a Unique Marketing Strategy 21:29 - Sales Performance and Product Viability 23:05 - Mental Health and Career Stagnation 24:09 - Product Development Challenges 25:44 - Profitability and Product Selection 27:10 - Lessons from the Chinese Market As always, if you have any questions or anything that you need help with, leave a comment down below if you're interested. Don't forget to leave us a review on iTunes if you enjoy our content. Thanks for listening! Until next time, happy selling!

Dacia Moore, licensed counselor and founder of Second Wind Counseling & Consulting,  has dedicated her career to helping African Americans understand the benefits of therapy, take a proactive approach to mental wellness, and become their best selves. She's the author of Why Are So Many Students So Angry? and the forthcoming From Stuck to Unstoppable. In this episode, Dacia traces her mission back to her Jamaican mother, Dorothy, whose struggle with depression became a living picture of what it means to be "stuck." Watching Dorothy's pain - and her resilience - taught Dacia that staying stuck has a cost, and that faith, work ethic, and getting help are how we move again. We talk about recognizing when to ask for support and take a break, knowing when to let go and move on, navigating depression with compassion, and guiding our children with the hard-earned wisdom of our own experiences. To learn more about Second Wind, visit their website here.  To subscribe to Ana's new "Mama Loves…" newsletter visit here.  To contact Ana, to be a guest, or suggest a guest, please send your mail to: info@thankyoumama.net For more about "Thank You, Mama", please visit: http://www.thankyoumama.net To connect with Ana on social media: https://www.instagram.com/anatajder/ https://www.facebook.com/ana.tajder

What separates good players from great ones? It's not talent — it's work ethic. In this inspiring episode of The Ride To The Rink, Lee and Mike sit down with Riley Armstrong, NHL Director of Player Development, to talk about what it really takes to level up your game — on and off the ice.From the long days at the rink to the unseen sacrifices parents make, Riley shares how NHL pros push through pain, fatigue, and setbacks — and how young players can learn to bring that same 100% effort every day.

We often hear about how young people are unwilling to work these days. Is it that young people lack work ethic, or do they lack hope that things will turn out okay in the future given the deck has been somewhat stacked against them with the rise in cost for things like education, housing, and so on?

Spirit sees that our best may change frequently. Some days we can do so much and be so productive while other days it seems we work so hard and get almost nothing done. Why is there such a disparity in our performance? Why isn't our intended actions cause such a wide gap from our end result?This episode goes into why we must keep our efforts and attitude high going through this phase. There is something very special in the lesson of doing your absolute best and it is not connected to what you achieve. If you are looking for more answers on this topic listen in and discover more about the source in which your brain is talking to you in this podcast.This Meditation only podcast channel with Tony and his Tuning Forks: https://raisingyourspiritsmeditation.buzzsprout.comIn the meditation portion of this podcast we used the Sunlight Meditation: Tree Meditation For safety reasons we ask that you not listen to the meditation portion of this podcast if you are driving or operating any machinery as the sounds and frequencies will place you in an altered state. Here is a link to Tony's many classes coming up: https://lovehigherself.com/eventsSubscribe to our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@raisingyourspiritswithtony108 Meditation only Podcast Library: Raising Your Spirits Meditation Podcast (buzzsprout.com)Tony Gyenis conducts a free weekly Facebook LIVE meditation class on Fridays at 1:30pm Eastern called Tuning In with Tony . Here is the link to Tony's page to join his weekly class: https://www.facebook.com/tony.gyenis Book your spot here: https://calendly.com/whitelight878/tune-in-with-tonyTony's eCard:https://link.v1ce.co.uk/pbex/tonygyenis Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A street view on the pending civil unrest (maybe) starting on November 1st from a lack of government funding due to the endless arguing by our American politicians...which very well might be planned all along...Photo by Ron Jones

Nicholas Davenport—known as “Mr. Mental Muscle” is the founder of Mind Body 1, Nicholas combines neuroscience and sport science to help athletes, military personnel, and professionals strengthen their mental and physical resilience. His innovative methods train focus, decision-making, and emotional control under pressure, proving that peak performance starts in the mind.  He is also the creator and organizer of the Blue Ocean Summit.   https://www.themb1.com/blueocean   7:18 Doing What You Love Despite Obstacles 14:53 Work Ethic as a Competitive Advantage 18:16 Hinge Moment at the Orlando Conference 20:03 Scaling Mind by One: Lessons in Growth 22:53 Challenging Industry Norms 25:56 Blue Ocean Summit Vision 28:03 Using AI in Performance Coaching 35:47 From Rejection to Growth: A Mental Toughness Lesson 58:31 Reflecting on the Journey with Dr. Bell   Don't forget you can also follow Dr. Rob Bell on Twitter or Instagram! Follow At: X @drrobbell Instagram @drrobbell Download Your Daily Focus Map! https://drrobbell.com/ If you enjoyed this episode on Mental Toughness, please subscribe and leave a review! Dr. Rob Bell    

Mastering Traits of a Successful Broker: Insights from Industrial Advisors In this episode of the Industrial Advisors podcast, hosts Matt and Kyle discuss the essential traits that make a successful broker in the industry. They identify five key attributes: work ethic, analytical ability, networking, salesmanship, and creativity. They emphasize the importance of mastering at least two of these traits to make money, three to become elite, and four to achieve significant success. They also highlight the value of discipline, competitive drive, authenticity, and passion in the field. The conversation provides valuable insights for brokers looking to excel in the industry. 00:00 Introduction to the Five Key Traits 00:48 Deep Dive into the Five Traits 01:56 The Importance of Discipline and Competitive Nature 03:00 Winning and Authenticity in Brokerage 03:52 Passion and Final Thoughts

Wrestling icon and local Texas star Kevin Von Erich sits down to discuss the upcoming AEW Dynamite & Collision event on October 22nd at the Boeing Center at TechPort in San Antonio! With AEW on a meteoric ascent as the first true mainstream wrestling alternative in decades, Von Erich offers insights into what fans can expect on this action-packed night. He'll also share stories from his near 50-year career and speak about his sons, Marshall & Ross Von Erich, who are continuing the family's legendary path as part of the AEW roster. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a wrestling Hall of Famer with deep Texas roots, right before AEW returns to the Alamo City!AEW Dynamite/Collision: San AntonioDate:OCTOBER 22, 2025Venue:Boeing Center at TechPortCity:San Antonio, TXTime:6:30pm CThttps://www.allelitewrestling.com/aew-event/aew-dynamite-collision-san-antonioChapters:00:00-00:28: Introduction & WelcomeWelcome to I Am Refocused Radio.Introduction of special guest: Kevin Von Erich, true Texas wrestling legend.Promoting AEW Dynamite and Collision in San Antonio at the Boeing Center at Techport on October 22nd.00:28-00:54: The Von Erich Sons & AEWMention of his sons, Marshall and Ross Von Erich, continuing the family legacy in AEW (airs on TBS, TNT, and streams on HBO Max).Thanking Kevin Von Erich for his time.How are you doing, sir?00:54-02:24: Fondest Memories & the People of TexasDiscussing nearly five decades in the business and asking which moments still stand out today.Sharing a story about a costume contest in Wichita Falls during Halloween.Recounting the moment he lifted a heavy little girl dressed as a witch into the ring, and the crowd's considerate silence to avoid hurting her feelings.Highlighting the brotherhood and consideration of the people of Texas.02:24-04:44: Personal Growth and the Importance of FamilyReflecting on lessons learned while growing and succeeding in the business.The initial focus on working "hard all out" to bring home a check for the family.The crushing loss of his brothers, David in 1984 and Mike in 1986.Realizing that family was what was important all along, not money or fame.Describing the intense work ethic—performing with fever, broken bones, and dislocations—because the fans paid their money.The motivation of being a father: willing to pay any price and the confidence his family had in him.Concluding that love is the greatest force on Earth.04:44-05:04: AEW Event PromotionReminder to tune into I Am Refocus Radio with Kevin Von Erich.Promoting AEW Dynamite and Collision in San Antonio on October 22nd at the Boeing Center at Techport.05:04-07:51: Advice for Sons and the New Era of WrestlingAsking what advice he gives his sons, Marshall and Ross, on balancing fame, pressure, and purpose.Recounting his own father's advice not to enter the business and his sons' similar defiance.Describing the brutal training in Japan ("like torture") with a thousand sit-ups and push-ups daily, sweeping, bowing, and building the ring.The sons' love for the business despite the hardship.Observing that AEW has "burst out from the pack" and is a leader.Praising modern wrestlers as fluid, decisive, and professional athletes right out of college or the NFL.Noting the absence of drugs in the current wrestling business.Lamenting that his brothers can't see this new era.Asking if he sees a glimpse of his younger self in his sons and the importance of work ethic.07:51-12:30: Work Ethic, Discipline, and The MovieStating you get out of it what you put into it; it's about paying the price and working harder than others.Discussing the discipline and hard life of an athlete.Addressing The Iron Claw movie, mentioning the filmmakers were from England and didn't consult him.Pushing back on the depiction of Texans as "rough" and his father's strict, but respectful, upbringing with a leather strap.Highlighting the Texas values: respect, punctuality, and keeping your word.Asking what sets AEW apart from other promotions.Comparing AEW to the "World-Class Wrestling" of his day: having young, hungry guys who developed organic, natural personalities.Praising AEW athletes as hard-working, devoted to the sport, and masters of their counters, reversals, and submissions.Refuting the movie's narrative that his father forced them to wrestle or that it was "money, money, money."Admitting to using numbing agents (Novocaine) on knees and back before shows, but stressing it was not for fun but to perform better for the crowd.Asserting wrestling is the purest form of entertainment.12:30-15:23: San Antonio Fans and Texas Wrestling PrideAddressing fans going to the Boeing Center on October 22nd.Remembering the incredible noise in San Antonio at the Freeman Coliseum and Hemisphere Arena—"better than Dallas."Sharing his love for San Antonio and the Texas rivers, mentioning his recent move to the country near Sisterdale.Quote: "If you want to find a way to really love Texas, try leaving it for 20 years."Asking what he's most proud of regarding Texas wrestling on a global stage.Describing the Texas style as men who will "pay the price" and "knock the heck out of each other."Expressing how the crowd noise and chanting is essential, recalling how difficult it must have been for young wrestlers during COVID in empty arenas.Stating wrestlers "feed off the crowd," and you "don't feel anything when you're flying off the turnbuckles."15:23-18:14: Final Lessons and True LegacyAsking what lessons today's wrestlers need to learn from his experience.Discussing muscle memory and the wrestler's code of ethics.Sharing a story about his friend, Bruiser Brody, and the danger of crossing someone who is "that down to hurt, to pain," leading to Brody's death.Asking what legacy means to him personally, beyond titles and fame.Reiterating that his sons and family have no curse—they are blessed.Expressing concern that the movie's narrative ("curse" and name-changing) is "a bunch of bull" and not the truth, though he knows movies are "strong things."Final thank you and good wishes for the show in San Antonio.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.Thank you for tuning in to I Am Refocused Radio. For more inspiring conversations, visit IAmRefocusedRadio.com and stay connected with our community.Don't miss new episodes—subscribe now at YouTube.com/@RefocusedRadio

In this episode of the Additive Snack Podcast, host Fabian Alefeld delves into the intersection of journalism and additive manufacturing (AM) with Matt Kremenetsky, an analyst from 3Dprint.com. They discuss various aspects of AM, from its breakthroughs and challenges to its role in broader manufacturing ecosystems and supply chains. The conversation covers significant topics including the impact of recent policy shifts, next-wave applications, and changes in the media landscape relating to AM. Matt shares insights on the evolving nature of workforce development and its importance in the manufacturing sector, as well as the future potential for strategic R&D partnerships and investment incentives. Listeners gain an in-depth understanding of emerging market applications in defense, data centers, satellite technology, and power grids, highlighting the importance of thermal management as a unique benefit AM can offer. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of current trends and future outlooks in the AM industry. 00:25 Meet Matt Kremenetsky: Analyst for 3DPrint.com00:52 Diving into Additive Manufacturing Journalism02:15 Matt's Journey into AM03:55 The Evolution of AM06:54 Challenges and Opportunities in Additive Media10:44 The Role of Additive in Modern Manufacturing17:26 Workforce Development and Policy in Additive29:54 Respect for Manufacturing in Germany and Japan30:44 The Rise of Trade Careers in the US31:37 Gen Z's Work Ethic and Technology's Impact34:34 AI's Threat to Entry-Level Jobs35:42 Policies Supporting Manufacturing Investments41:42 Strategic R&D Partnerships and Tax Implications46:23 Future Applications of AM

Send us a textLuck isn't random—it's engineered by how you work and who you are while you work. In this Mindset Café episode, we break down 10 practical moves to expand your opportunity surface area: reframing luck, defining the work-ethic/attitude equation, compounding daily reps, turning attitude into a credibility multiplier, making yourself findable, stacking interlocking skills, moving fast when windows open, choosing hard rooms, staying resilient without drama, and closing the loop with follow-ups and proof. If you want more serendipity in business and life, build the habits that invite it in and keep the door open.Support the showThanks for listening & being part of the Mindset Cafe Community.----------------------------------------------Connect With Devan:https://www.devangonzalez.com/connect----------------------------------------------Follow On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/https://www.instagram.com/mindsetcafepodcastLet me know what topics or questions you want covered so we can help you achieve your goals faster.----------------------------------------------P.S. If you're not already a part of the The Mindset Cafe Community Page I would love to have you be a part of the community, and spread your amazing knowledge. The page is to connect and network with other like minded people networking and furthering each other on our journeys!https://www.facebook.com/groups/themindsetcafe/

Send us a textWhat if work isn't a grind to escape but a gift to offer? We dive into a deeper vision of labor—how Genesis reframes effort as worship, why comfort is a lousy north star, and how faithfulness over time produces fruit you can actually taste. Along the way, we talk about attention—the hours swallowed by phones and the way quick dopamine undermines deep craft—and share how to retrain your mind for long-haul focus. This isn't about romanticizing hustle. It's about restoring dignity to diligence and recovering the joy of building things that bless others.We pull from the stories of Joseph and Nehemiah to show what integrity looks like in rough seasons: excellence in small places, stewardship when no one is watching, and the determination to keep moving when bitterness tempts you to quit. We also explore practical shifts: why you should never waste inspiration, how to finish what you start, and the difference between band-aid job hopping and bridge-building side projects that open real doors. We talk property, responsibility, and dominion—owning your work, creating value, and handing something meaningful to the next generation.If your days feel flat, consider this your nudge to pick up the tools again. Read a difficult page. Ship a draft. Fix one process. Build one habit that honors God and serves others. Sweat and stress, when tied to purpose, become offerings that shape you and the world around you. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a spark, and leave a review to help more people find the show. What's the one thing you'll finish this week?Support the show

In this episode of Run the Numbers, CJ Gustafson sits down with Ivan Makarov, Operating Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and former VP of Finance at Webflow, to explore what it takes to build a finance function from scratch inside a fast-growing startup. Ivan shares lessons from the trenches—how to decide between outsourcing and hiring in-house, what makes a great first finance hire, and why early-stage companies often run out of cash before they run out of ideas. He also dives into fundraising pitfalls, audit readiness, and the tools that make up a modern finance stack. Beyond the spreadsheets, Ivan opens up about the shift from operator to venture partner, the value of helping founders avoid his past mistakes, and what makes an offsite actually work.—LINKS:Ivan Makarov on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivansmakarov/Andreessen Horowitz: https://a16z.com/CJ on X (@cjgustafson222): https://x.com/cjgustafson222Mostly metrics: https://www.mostlymetrics.comRELATED EPISODES:Webflow's VP Finance Ivan Makarov on Understanding Startup Equity:Portfolio Operations: This Is What You Actually Have To Do To Make Sure a Company Is Successful:Brex COO/CFO Michael Tannenbaum on Taking Risks996 Culture, Exploding AI Bills & SaaS Chaos—TIMESTAMPS:(00:00:00) Preview, Intro(00:01:18) Meet Ivan Makarov of Andreessen Horowitz & Episode Setup(00:02:39) Sponsor – Tipalti | Aleph | Rillet(00:06:51) From Webflow to Andreessen: Becoming an Operating Partner(00:09:19) When and Why Founders Hire Their First Finance Leader(00:12:52) Hiring Early in Complex or Regulated Industries(00:13:58) The First Finance Hire in 2025 vs. 2015(00:15:46) Sponsor – Fidelity Private Shares | Mercury | RightRev(00:19:02) The Many Hats of Finance Leaders & The Rise of RevOps(00:24:55) What Founders Look For: Startup DNA and Work Ethic(00:26:05) Grind Culture, Return to Office, and New Expectations(00:28:20) From BizOps to RevOps: How Finance Roles Are Evolving(00:31:57) The First 12 Months of a Finance Leader's Playbook(00:35:05) Choosing Audit Partners and Avoiding Hidden Costs(00:36:32) Why Startups Really Fail — Running Out of Cash(00:39:16) Cash Controls, Banking Diversification, and Fraud Prevention(00:43:48) Fundraising Red Flags: Metrics, Definitions, and Diligence(00:47:50) 409A Valuations, Equity Clarity & Candidate Questions(00:50:09) The Modern Finance Tech Stack & Gen 3 Tools(00:55:05) AI's Impact: Replacing Labor, Not People(01:00:00) Offsites, Team Building & The Future of Finance Leadership(01:02:28) Wrapping Up: Reflections, Gratitude & Closing Credits—SPONSORS:Tipalti automates the entire payables process—from onboarding suppliers to executing global payouts—helping finance teams save time, eliminate costly errors, and scale confidently across 200+ countries and 120 currencies. More than 5,000 businesses already trust Tipalti to manage payments with built-in security and tax compliance. Visit https://www.tipalti.com/runthenumbers to learn more.Aleph automates 90% of manual, error-prone busywork, so you can focus on the strategic work you were hired to do. Minimize busywork and maximize impact with the power of a web app, the flexibility of spreadsheets, and the magic of AI. Get a personalised demo at https://www.getaleph.com/runRillet is the AI-native ERP modern finance teams are switching to because it's faster, simpler, and 100% built for how teams operate today. See how fast your team can move. Book a demo at https://www.rillet.com/metricsFidelity Private Shares is the all-in-one equity management platform that keeps your cap table clean, your data room organized, and your equity story clear—so you never risk losing a fundraising round over messy records. Schedule a demo at https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com and mention Mostly Metrics to get 20% off.Mercury is business banking built for builders, giving founders and finance pros a financial stack that actually works together. From sending wires to tracking balances and approving payments, Mercury makes it simple to scale without friction. Join the 200,000+ entrepreneurs who trust Mercury and apply online in minutes at https://www.mercury.comRightRev automates the revenue recognition process from end to end, gives you real-time insights, and ensures ASC 606 / IFRS 15 compliance—all while closing books faster. For RevRec that auditors actually trust, visit https://www.rightrev.com and schedule a demo.#RunTheNumbersPodcast #StartupFinance #VentureCapital #CFOInsights #Leadership This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cjgustafson.substack.com

Indian legend Ravi Shastri joins Brad Haddin, you, and Adam Peacock to preview the upcoming India-Australia white-ball series. Ravi chats about the current Indian squad, Gill’s outstanding start to his captaincy, Kohli and Sharma’s potential last tour, Kohli’s second-to-none work ethic, stories of a young Sachin Tendulkar, being Shane Warne’s first Test wicket, commentating with legends of the game, Ashwin’s impact on the BBL and franchise cricket, and the unmatched potential of Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Plus, Ravi previews the Ashes series, shares great stories about Skull and the Australian commentators, and recalls some of his best memories on tour! Watch all of the India-Australia series on Fox & Kayo. Send your cricket club cap to Producer Joel at the following address: Joel Harrison 50 Goulburn St, Sydney, NSW, 2000 Follow on Apple, Spotify and the LiSTNR app Watch on YouTube Drop us a message on Instagram and TikTok! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have unlimited access to the supernatural. But, are you letting pride block supernatural blessings? God wants to give what you don't qualify for. Dr. Gabe unpacks the true meaning of faith, emphasizing that faith is not just belief, but assurance—and is foundational to experiencing the supernatural power of God. He challenges listeners to move beyond relying solely on their own efforts and to boldly expect God to do the impossible in their lives.Support the showText encounteratl to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Encounter.Worship with EncounterSundays at 9 AM ET | Wednesdays at 7:30 PM ETSupport EncounterText egive to 77977 Connect with EncounterFacebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | WebsiteConnect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | Website

What if your "great" work ethic is secretly sabotaging your business? It's a tough question, but one every founder needs to confront. The toxic hustle culture sold by Silicon Valley isn't just unhealthy, it's often unprofitable. In this episode, Personal Growth Advisor Brad Farris joins me to dismantle the "grind" mindset. We explore why overworking kills the creativity needed for breakthroughs , and how things like sleep, exercise, and hobbies are actually critical tools for productivity and sustainable success. If you're an entrepreneur chasing growth without burning out, this conversation will shift your entire approach to work. Check out the company: https://anchoradvisors.comBook a 1-on-1 advisory session with me to apply these principles to your business: https://calendly.com/wltb/advisory

Every year in the early weeks of fall, Aroostook County potato farmers race to dig up their fields before the first frosts hit. Since at least the 1940s, students get a break from school to help out during the busy season.

Joyce talks about work ethic of different generations, Zohran Mamdani's socialist ideals despite living the American dream in a capitalist country, James Comey pleads "Not guilty," to lying to Congress, a man in Washington D.C arrested with Molotov cocktail and other devices outside of a cathedral.Podcasters as an alternative to regular new media outlets and Meghan Kelley going after Joy Reid after the announcement of her podcast.Protest on October 7th. Candence Owens vivid dream about Charlie Kirk and more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cristela Alonzo jokes about work ethic in her Netflix special, "Upper Classy".

Comedian (and personal training manager) Nick Scopoletti returns to chat about growing his comedy career, working with Lisa Lampanelli, managing personal trainers, and how his personal warmth has been kind of a cheat code. You can find Nick on Instagram @nickscopes https://www.instagram.com/nickscopes/ and as Lisa Lampanelli's sidekick on her podcast, Shrink This https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrink-this-with-lisa-lampanelli/id1819746873    The AI generated summaryIn this engaging conversation, Jim McDonald and Nick Scopoletti explore themes of friendship, cynicism, personal growth, and the comedy journey. They reflect on their experiences in the fitness industry, the impact of COVID, and the importance of networking in the comedy scene. The discussion also touches on family dynamics, wealth, and the challenges of managing people in the workplace. Throughout the conversation, they share humorous anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of perseverance and self-discovery in both personal and professional realms.Chapters  00:00 Warm Connections and Cynical Reflections03:05 The Comedy Journey: Struggles and Triumphs05:50 Navigating Life's Changes: Comedy and Personal Growth08:46 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health11:49 Family Dynamics and Personal Insights14:38 The Reality of Working in the Fitness Industry17:40 Acting, Comedy, and Authenticity20:40 Nostalgia and Cultural Identity23:26 Creative Outlets and Self-Expression31:48 Expo Experiences and Bodybuilding Culture35:44 Managing a Fitness Team39:44 Clientele Development in Boutique Gyms44:39 Wealth, Work Ethic, and Personal Growth50:08 Networking and Social Media Surprises55:58 Memorable Encounters with IconsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/50-facts-with-silent-mike-jim-mcd--5538735/support.

Fr. Mike continues discussing the call of Nehemiah and how we should approach the work the Lord calls us to do. He explains why all work is divine participation in God's Kingdom on earth and encourages us to remember our service to God and to others, keeping our focus on serving and loving in the realm of our influence. Today's readings are Nehemiah 3, Zechariah 14, and Proverbs 20:23-26. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

This podcast episode discusses coaching challenges, work ethic, and fostering joy in sports, emphasizing the importance of character development alongside athletic skills.Highlights*The boys answer 10 questions from the fans.*Coaches share personal experiences while highlighting the joy of baseball for kids in Cambodia.*Strategies for dealing with youth athletes struggling with fundamentals and lack of effort are discussed.*Parents are encouraged to manage their children's sports experiences, focusing on character over accolades.*The importance of resilience and the response to failure in sports and life is emphasized.*Creative solutions for practice amid weather-related challenges are shared to inspire fellow coaches.Wanna support the Pod? patreon.com/chopandballgame

ABOUT THE EPISODEListen in as Trent Hunter and Stephen Wellum interview David Schrock on his essay, "Working As Unto the Lord: Seven Ways to Work Harder and Be Better".Timestamps00:46 – Intro02:12 – Where Did David's Article Come From?03:20 – Dr. Wellum's Job History05:50 – David Schrock's Job History07:10 – When Did the True Significance of Work Break In?10:24 – Beginning with Good Works in Ephesians 2?12:22 – Placing Ephesians House Codes in Context13:58 – Christ is the Ultimate Motivation15:28 – How Do We Relate Our Other Motivations to Christ?18:41 – How Do You Cultivate a Work Ethic in Our Kids?22:35 – Christ As Our Supervisor and Our Earthly Supervisors26:45 – Serving in the Military28:26 – COA Birthday Ad28:56 – Christ Our Sanctifier31:16 – The False Secular-Sacred Divide32:58 – Pastors Applying Truth So Their Congregants' Vocations37:10 – Pastoring Challenges of Different People's Vocations41:41 – Christ Is Our Hiring Manager43:30 – Entrusting Christ's Sovereign Rule46:37 – Christ Is Our Example50:00 – Christ Is Our Evaluator54:15 – Closing Thoughts56:48 – OutroResources to Click“Working As Unto the Lord: Seven Ways to Work Harder and Be Better” – David SchrockErika Kirk's Instagram StatementTheme of the Month: Get to Work: Grasping the Doctrine of VocationGive to Support the WorkBooks to ReadEphesians (ZECotNT) – Clinton E. Arnold

Today on Rock Feed, we're joined by Dustin Bates, frontman of Starset, for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of the release of their brand new album Silos, out now.Dustin opens up about leaving behind a PhD program to chase his music dreams, how Starset was formed, and the intense creative process that went into this ambitious new record. We dive into his sci-fi storytelling, the evolution of Starset's cinematic sound, and why this album started out as singles before transforming into a full-fledged project.0:00 — Dustin Bates Joins Rock Feed + “Silos” Release0:27 — From Singles to Full Album: Why “Silos”1:59 — Sci-Fi Roots & Engineering Background2:26 — Epic Records Deal… Then Dropped3:10 — “My Demons” Breaks Through3:34 — Walking Away from a PhD: No-Brainer Risk4:08 — “Everyone Thought I Was Crazy”4:27 — Early Influences: Phil Collins to Metallica6:03 — Building the Starset Sound: Zimmer, Sigur Rós, Orchestral + Electronic6:42 — Anthem Writing: Hooks that Stick7:06 — Solo vs Co-Writes, Interludes, 18-Hour Days7:43 — Writing on a Train: Lyric Lock-In8:34 — Where Inspiration Really Comes From9:20 — Work Ethic, Growing Up with Less10:00 — The All-In Loan: Recording Without a Label11:17 — Radio Games, Signing, and Recoupment Reality12:20 — “It's Like an 800% Loan”: Label Economics12:41 — Keeping the Edge: Refusing the Comfort Blanket14:58 — What “Silos” Sounds Like + Next Album Already15:51 — No Tour Yet: Building a Bigger Return16:18 — The AI Video Backlash: What Really Happened17:27 — Tech Evolves: From Synths to AI18:00 — Covers, Not Composers: What AI Can (and Can't) Do18:39 — Pro-Tech, Not Anti-Art: Using Tools, Hiring Artists21:58 — AI & Society: Jobs, Churn, and the Future23:47 — Closing Thoughts & Mutual Respect

In this episode of the Medical Sales Podcast, Samuel Adeyinka sits down with Kat Hurd, medical device sales coach and former Fortune 500 leader with 15 years of experience. From athletic training to rep of the year, to VP-level leadership and now founder of her own coaching business, Kat's journey is proof that you don't need a biology degree to thrive—you need grit, process, and the right mindset. Kat shares the pivotal moment that led her to leave corporate leadership and launch her coaching business, why so many reps fail without a clear sales process, and the three biggest gaps she sees holding reps back: lack of process, lack of ownership, and inconsistent follow-through. She also unpacks the truth about work ethic, limiting beliefs, and how managers can spot red flags before making a bad hire. Whether you're trying to break into med device, hit President's Club, or grow into leadership, this episode is packed with real-world strategies from someone who's been a top rep, a respected leader, and now a coach guiding the next generation of sales professionals. Connect with Kat Hurd: LinkedIn Connect with Me: LinkedIn Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here's How » Want to connect with past guests and access exclusive Q&As? Join our EYS Skool Community today!

Step into the world of courageous leadership with Episode 170 of the Decide Your Legacy Podcast! Ever wondered what it's like to lead the way when you're the youngest person in the room? Host Adam Gragg, co-host Kelsey Torkelson, and special guest Tyler Higgins pull back the curtain on the real-life wins, wobbles, and wisdom of leading at any age, but especially your 20s and 30s.From family businesses to boardroom breakthroughs, Tyler spills on balancing humility with confidence, conquering impostor syndrome, and discovering your unique strengths—even when the veterans joke they “changed your diapers.” Learn how to embrace fear, crush self-doubt, find mentors or become one! And why showing up, making mistakes, and building authentic connections are the superpowers every young—or young at heart—leader needs.Unleash your potential, learn the secrets of self-auditing, and grab practical tips for finding your voice in a world that needs bold, fresh leadership now more than ever.Ready to lead? Press play and get inspired to decide your legacy—no matter your age!Shatterproof Yourself Course:https://courses.decideyourlegacy.com/shatterproof-yourself3 Foolproof Ways To Motivate Your Team: 3 Areas to Focus on as a Leaderhttps://decideyourlegacy.com/how-to-create-positive-productive-workplace/7 Benefits of Being Courageoushttps://decideyourlegacy.com/7-unexpected-benefits-to-facing-your-fears/4 Ways You're Demotivating Your Team: And What You Can Do About Each Onehttps://decideyourlegacy.com/5-things-that-make-work-suck/10 Ways to Encourage People: How to Break The Invalidation Tendencyhttps://decideyourlegacy.com/one-big-relationship-mistake-most-people-make/How to Make Good Decisions: 14 Tools for Making Tough Life Choiceshttps://decideyourlegacy.com/make-good-decisions-part-1/00:00 Young Leaders' Self-Doubt Challenges05:58 Family Business Leadership Challenges12:34 Harnessing Talents with Humility20:52 Intentional Growth Through Mentorship24:13 Internship Success Through Determination27:01 Resilient Leadership Amid Resistance32:17 "Embracing Spiritual and Personal Transformation"37:26 Opportunities Grow with Leadership Visibility46:47 "Secret to Success: Observe Others"49:59 Focus on Progress, Not Problems56:29 Estimating Challenges in Project Bidding01:00:44 "Leadership Qualities Through Youth" Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you!

This week, Jake and Bob continue their series on athletics, and welcome Bart Schuchts, a former D1 football player, to the podcast. Bart reflects on how athletics shaped his self-identity, beliefs, and relationships from childhood through his adult life. They also discuss sports culture, fear based coaching, and the fine line between healthy competition and idolizing sports. Ultimately, when approached with balance and intention, athletics can foster deep connection, personal growth, and spiritual insight that extends far beyond the game itself, enriching every aspect of life.   Key Points: Athletic achievement is often tied to receiving love, affirmation, and attention in families, especially when there are older siblings who excel in sports. Sports can become an idol when one's entire sense of self-worth and identity is defined by performance and recognition. Sports teaches “conditional love,” when praise and acceptance are contingent on athletic success. A coach's coaching style can establish either a positive, formative atmosphere or contribute to wounding dynamics. The question “Am I lovable?” is often unconsciously brought to sports, and how one seeks to answer that can drive them to healthy mastery of athletics or unhealthy obsession. Healthy participation in sports fosters union and belonging. It also highlights both the best and worst ways we seek connection, love, and purpose.   Resources: Church on Fire (Bart's Website) Interview with Bart and Bobby Bowden Healing Professionals Virtual Workshop   Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:08:43 Sports in Bart's Life 00:10:44 Sports as an Idol 00:18:55 Finding Our Worth in Sports 00:28:38 The Good and Bad of Sports Culture 00:32:03 Dion Sanders and Work Ethic 00:33:39 Finding the Four Identities of a Human in Sports 00:34:58 Son vs Orphan 00:44:32 Brother 00:52:44 Husband 00:55:31 Father   Connect with Restore the Glory:  Instagram: @restoretheglorypodcast  Twitter: @RestoreGloryPod Facebook: Restore the Glory Podcast   Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow in holiness by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!

You ever seen an old house and think, “Man, I'd love to fix that up.”? Or, an old truck, and imagine the day where you and your children would drive around in that thing? Or, maybe an old project you've been meaning to finish but never got around to it? My guest today, Tye Nichols, feels the same way. In fact, he's invested thousands of his own money to put into an abandoned golf course he's had visions of reviving. Today, we talk about his dream of reviving his golf course, Fairway Fields. We talk about finally believing in yourself, casting vision so other people will believe in you, overcoming doubters on your path, what to do when times get tough, and whether or not to “sell out” when it comes to chasing a dream. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 – Catching Up After Years 01:00 – Family Life and Moving Back to Maine 02:50 – Why Buy an Abandoned Golf Course? 05:55 – Building Trust and Taking Advice from the Right People 07:15 – Ordinary vs. Extraordinary 09:20 – Lessons from Jocko and Realizing People Are Just People 13:10 – Humility, Work Ethic, and Earning Opportunities 16:50 – Big Dreams for Fairway Fields 19:30 – Reimagining a Rural Golf Course 24:30 – Taming Nature and Learning the Hard Way 26:45 – Local Support and Community Excitement 28:30 – Making Ends Meet While Building a Dream 32:40 – Long-Term Vision and Scaling Up 34:40 – Overcoming Doubts and Finding True Commitment 37:10 – Support from His Wife and Family 39:25 – Turning Away from a Rough Past 41:00 – Rock Bottom and Deciding to Change 42:30 – Why Strangers Believe in His Vision 45:55 – People Want to Support, Not Tear You Down 47:30 – Advice for Men with Big Dreams 49:30 – Where to Connect with Tye Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready