Battle Ready (Audio)

In this episode of Battle Ready, host Ricky Chavez sits down with presentation expert Jeff Brandeis to break down the secrets behind high-impact communication. Learn why most presentations fail within the first 7 minutes and how leaders can capture attention, build authority, and drive real results. Jeff shares his proven ENGAGE framework—designed to transform boring presentations into powerful, conversion-driven experiences. From overcoming “death by PowerPoint” to using interactive techniques that keep audiences locked in, this episode delivers practical strategies you can apply immediately. Whether you're leading a team, pitching a product, or speaking on stage, discover how to connect, influence, and inspire action. Don’t miss these battle-tested tools to elevate your communication skills and stand out in today’s distracted world.

In this powerful episode of Battle Ready (aired 04-09-26), host Ricky Chavez sits down with retired Command Sergeant Major Alan Cheeseman to explore leadership under pressure, life after the military, and the journey of personal reinvention. From 25 years in the U.S. Army to becoming a science fiction author, Cheeseman shares how discipline, mindset, and resilience shape success beyond uniform.

Discover insights on motivating teams, transitioning to civilian life, overcoming disability, and building purpose through creativity. This episode dives deep into mental strength, veteran support networks, and the power of storytelling as a tool for healing and growth.

Discover how modern leaders can thrive in the age of AI in Battle Ready (aired 03-26-26). In this powerful episode, Cynthia Vasquez—AI leadership strategist and founder of Lead with Impact—shares how to move from fear and confusion to confident execution. Learn why emotional intelligence, ethical judgment, and human connection matter more than ever as AI reshapes industries.

This conversation explores practical strategies for leaders, entrepreneurs, and teams to leverage AI as a force multiplier—not a threat. From building AI readiness to creating a culture of trust and innovation, you’ll gain actionable insights to stay competitive without losing your identity.

In this episode of Battle Ready (aired 03-19-26), host Ricky Chavez sits down with Dr. Michael Schwartz to break down the real causes of chronic fatigue, burnout, and low energy. Discover why pushing through exhaustion can damage your health and how stress, poor nutrition, and lifestyle habits impact your body’s performance.

Learn practical strategies to improve energy, build resilience, and take control of your health before a crisis hits. This episode explores the powerful connection between mental, emotional, and physical health, along with simple steps you can start today—like improving your diet, managing stress, and recognizing early warning signs your body is sending.

In this episode of Battle Ready, aired 03-12-26, host Ricky Chavez sits down with Aliyah Zada, founder of the UP and Adam Foundation, to talk about leadership burnout, PTSD recovery, trauma, resilience, and mental wellness. Aliyah shares how high performers and leaders can mistake constant pressure for strength, and why true resilience comes from honesty, regulation, recovery, and community support.

The conversation explores the warning signs of burnout, sustainable leadership habits, emotional regulation, team culture, and how creativity, science, and connection can help people heal from stress and isolation. Aliyah also discusses her vision for the Spokane Inner Peace Park, a community space designed to support mental health through curiosity, play, and connection.

Watch this powerful Battle Ready interview for insights on leadership development, burnout prevention, trauma recovery, emotional wellness, and building resilience in work and life.

Is AI about to revolutionize wealth management? In this powerful episode of Battle Ready (Aired 02-19-26), host Ricky Chave sits down with Rick Figueroa, CEO of Padron Partners, to discuss the future of finance, purpose-driven investing, and why money alone will never create fulfillment.

Rick shares how AI is becoming the third major revolution in wealth management, why contentment creates financial freedom, and how investors can align their portfolios with their values. From growing up in government housing to leading a faith-driven wealth management firm, Rick explains the difference between success and significance.

Learn about value-based investing, financial stewardship, giving while living, leadership, and how to build lasting legacy beyond money.

If you're an entrepreneur, investor, or leader seeking purpose beyond profit, this episode will challenge how you think about wealth.

On Now Media TV’s Battle Ready, host Ricky Chavez speaks with veteran advocate Mike Peacock about overcoming homelessness, PTSD, and military transition struggles. Learn how resilience, peer support, and community programs help veterans rebuild their lives, find purpose, and create lasting legacies of service.

In this episode of Battle Ready (aired 02-05-26), host Ricky Chavez sits down with Todd Thomas, a leading voice in AI, energy innovation, and entrepreneurship. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence is driving explosive energy demand, the future of sustainable power, and how startups can turn waste into opportunity.

Todd shares insights from his Unleashing Abundant Energy book trilogy and his work as CEO and founder of Woodchuck AI, a climate impact company transforming construction waste into renewable energy. Together, they discuss leadership under pressure, decision-making in uncertain environments, the realities of startup life, and how AI acts as a force multiplier rather than a job replacer.

This episode is a must-watch for leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals interested in AI, clean energy, sustainability, and building resilient businesses in a rapidly changing world.

In this powerful episode of Battle Ready, host Ricky Chavez sits down with Dr. Lee Powell, a veteran, pastor, author, and leadership coach whose life embodies resilience and transformation. Once a high school dropout, Dr. Powell defied the odds through discipline, perseverance, and faith—earning his doctorate and dedicating his life to helping others find purpose and lead through adversity.

Together, they explore what it truly means to lead in uncertainty, make high-pressure decisions, overcome failure, and stay calm in the storm. Drawing from military service, leadership experience, and personal setbacks, this episode delivers raw insights on trust, discipline, mentorship, and navigating life’s toughest moments without losing direction.

In this episode of Battle Ready (aired January 22, 2026), host Rickey Chavez is joined by executive coach and Continuum Leaders co-founder Carlos Martin for a powerful conversation on people-first leadership under pressure. The episode explores executive coaching, self-discovery, emotional intelligence, values alignment, succession planning, and leading through burnout, growth, and uncertainty. Carlos shares real-world insights on helping entrepreneurs and senior leaders build awareness, clarity, and resilience while staying grounded in humanity. A must-watch for leaders facing real responsibility, real pressure, and real consequences.