Becoming UnDone®

Neil Kennedy is an accomplished author, speaker, and founder of the FivestarMan movement. Over the years, he has authored 14 influential books, many of which have been translated into multiple languages and circulated globally. Intriguingly, despite grappling with a speech impediment and failing grammar classes in his early years, Neil has achieved remarkable success. The FivestarMan movement, which aims to resurrect authentic manhood through the five passions of authentic manhood, has profoundly impacted hundreds of thousands of men worldwide. His inspirational journey from an isolated job in the coal mines to an empowering leader for men demonstrates the power of faith and resilience.

Welcome to another enriching episode of Becoming UnDone®. This week, Toby Brooks sits down with Neil Kennedy, a powerhouse in men's ministry and founder of the successful Five Star Man movement. Neil candidly shares his journey—from a tumultuous childhood in Oklahoma marred by addiction, alcoholism, and serial adultery—to finding God and reshaping his destiny. Amidst the isolation of working long nights alone at a coal mine, Neil experienced a transformative encounter with faith that guided him to change his life and eventually touch the lives of thousands of men globally through his ministry.

In this episode, Neil discusses the critical role mentorship played in his life, how he overcame several personal and professional hurdles, and the genesis of the FivestarMan movement. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, resilience, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose. With the same zeal, Neil explains the unique framework of FivestarMan, which focuses on igniting men's internal motivations rather than imposing external standards. Through his story, we learn practical steps to achieve authentic manhood and the significance of directional intent in transforming both personal and professional lives.

Key Takeaways

• Power of Mentorship: Zig Ziglar's book See You at the Top was instrumental in inspiring young Neil and directing his life towards meaningful pursuits.
• Transformational Faith: Neil's faith journey began in isolation while working at a coal mine, eventually leading him to ministry and a newfound purpose.
• Resilience and Character: Emphasizing victory over victimhood, Neil discusses how personal adversity helped build resilience and determination.
• Five Star Man Framework: Introduction to the five core passions of authentic manhood: adventurous spirit, entrepreneurial drive, gallant relationships, faithful character, and philanthropic cause.
• Holistic Development: The importance of physical transformation and maintaining comprehensive well-being for fulfilling one's purpose.

Notable Quotes

• "After the devastation of losing what I thought was a dream and finally crying out to God...it was the first time I actually heard the voice of God in my spirit."
• "I'm just trying to expose who God made men to be... It's drawing out from their heart what they really are without all of the perversions of toxicity in culture."
• "You either embrace the victimhood, or you turn it to be your victory."
• "The motivation is like, yesterday I get a message... talking about how the Centurion Principle... changed her life. And I thought, how cool is that?"
• "If you don't know who you are, you'll never know why you are. If you don't know why you are, you'll never know where you're going."

Resources

• FivestarMan: Five Star Man Website
• Neil Kennedy's Facebook: Neil's Personal Facebook Page
• Neil's Books: Available on 

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Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

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About the Guest

Mikayla Moore is a dedicated and experienced athletic trainer with a rich background in sports medicine. She holds a bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a master's degree in Athletic Training. Her career has spanned high school, collegiate levels, and now, professional sports with the Milwaukee Brewers organization. A passionate advocate for athletes' health and well-being, Mikayla's journey reflects resilience and adaptability, as she navigated unexpected job changes and pursued her long-time dream of working in professional baseball.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to Episode 89 of Becoming UnDone® titled "No Bad Days," where host Toby Brooks talks with Mikayla Moore, an athletic trainer with the Milwaukee Brewers. This episode dives into Mikayla's professional journey, dealing with an unexpected job loss, and finding her dream job against all odds. Hailing from Texas, Mikayla transitioned from aspiring lawyer to athletic trainer, finding her true calling in sports medicine. Her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the importance of chasing one's dreams, no matter the setbacks.

Mikayla recounts how she was blindsided by a sudden job termination at Oklahoma City University, where she had grown comfortable and fulfilled over five years. Transforming adversity into an opportunity, she landed a role with the Brewers minor league team in the Dominican Republic. The narrative emphasizes her quick adaptation, from processing the shock to securing a new position within 29 days. This episode offers insights into how crises can sometimes be blessings in disguise, encouraging listeners to persist and stay open to new paths.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience in Adversity: Mikayla’s journey from unexpected job loss to landing a dream role highlights the power of resilience and adaptation.
• Pursuing Dreams: Despite initial setbacks, Mikayla's determination to work in professional baseball eventually paid off, underscoring the importance of chasing one's aspirations.
• Support Systems: The episode emphasizes the crucial role of personal and professional networks in navigating difficult times.
• Growth Through Challenges: Mikayla's experience in the Dominican Republic showcases that challenging environments often lead to immense personal and professional growth.
• Career Transition: The shift from collegiate to professional sports was significant for Mikayla, providing new opportunities and experiences in her athletic training career.

Explore the detail and depth behind Mikayla Moore's inspiring journey by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Becoming Undone as host Toby Brooks continues to bring to light the resilience and determination of high achievers.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Cara Wells is an accomplished entrepreneur and PhD holder in Animal Science from Texas Tech University. She is the founder of EmGenisys, a company committed to bringing innovative technologies to the animal science sector. Despite facing significant setbacks in her career, including the dissolution of her first company and the loss of her intellectual property, Cara has demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness, earning recognition through several entrepreneurship competitions and awards. Her current work exemplifies her dedication to making a significant impact in the field of animal genetics and breeding.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks dives deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Cara Wells, founder of EmGenisys and a PhD graduate from Texas Tech University. Cara shares her experiences, from her initial dreams of becoming a veterinarian to navigating the high-stakes world of animal genetics and startup ventures. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding drive to make a positive impact on the world, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.

Throughout the conversation, Cara candidly discusses the highs and lows of her journey, including the collapse of her first company and the subsequent struggles to regain control of her technology. She also highlights the importance of finding the right team, the necessity of being both confident and coachable, and the thrilling yet daunting task of building a product that can live up to its potential in the market. Cara's insights provide a valuable roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to innovate in technical and scientific fields.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Cara's journey illustrates the importance of perseverance and resilience. Despite significant setbacks, she continued to push forward, leveraging her expertise and passion to create new opportunities.
• The Value of a Strong Support Network: Mentors and supportive teammates were crucial in helping Cara navigate the complexities of startup life and regain her footing after major setbacks.
• Importance of Adaptability: Cara's ability to pivot, learn, and adapt was key to her ongoing success, showcasing the necessity of being flexible and open to change in the entrepreneurial world.
• Balancing Confidence and Coachability: Cara emphasizes the need to be confident in one's abilities while remaining open to feedback and willing to learn from others.
• Innovation and Impact: The potential of Cara's work in animal genetics demonstrates how innovation can address global challenges, from food security to endangered species preservation.

For more inspiring stories of resilience and innovation, tune in to Becoming UnDone®. Stay updated on future episodes to gain insights and inspiration from high achievers who turned their setbacks into stepping stones towards success. Listen, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Brad Brennan is a former collegiate and professional football player with a deeply rooted background in athletics. Hailing from California, Brad had a noteworthy career as a wide receiver at the University of Arizona and became one of the first Americans to play in Japan's X League of American football. Following his football career, he transitioned into corporate America, currently serving as the Director of Major Accounts for Raken, a major company in the construction software industry.

Episode Summary

In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone®, Toby Brooks sits down with his former athlete and dear friend, Brad Brennan, to delve into Brad’s extraordinary journey from a high school athlete in California to playing professional football in Japan and finally transitioning to corporate America. This episode, filled with heartfelt moments and nuggets of wisdom, explores the adversities Brad faced, including severe injuries and the emotional toll they took, and how he managed to overcome them with sheer determination and grit.

Brad shares insight into his high school days, the unexpected twists in his athletic career, including an inspiring stint in Japan’s X League, and his brief period in the CFL with the BC Lions. Despite recurrent injuries, Brad’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. The episode covers Brad’s life lessons from his time under coach Dick Tomey at the University of Arizona, the trials during his professional career, and the eventual transition to his current role at Raken, emphasizing his undying will to get up after each fall.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Brad's career was marked by frequent injuries, but he continually fought back and remained determined to keep playing, signifying the power of resilience.
• Dynamic Career Transition: Transitioning from professional sports to a corporate role at Raken, Brad’s journey illustrates adaptability and finding new paths to success.
• Inspirational Coaching and Mentorship: Lessons learned from Coach Dick Tomey at the University of Arizona emphasized trust, camaraderie, and the power of caring for teammates, profoundly impacting Brad’s career and life.
• Cultural and Personal Growth: Brad’s time in Japan not only prolonged his athletic career but also provided a rich cultural experience that broadened his perspective and personal development.
• Unyielding Optimism and Self-Belief: From betting on himself to handling career setbacks, Brad's story underscores the importance of maintaining self-belief and being open to unconventional opportunities.

Notable Quotes

1. "You're a lot stronger than you think you are. You go down this path and you get slapped in the face and kicked down, and you just have to keep getting up."
2. "When I told my dad, I don't want to do what you did. I'm going to do something different. I don't know what it is. But for now, this football thing's been taking me on this crazy journey."
3. "Coach Dick Tomey taught us really, I think, is just that he came from a real sense of love and not being ashamed to love your teammates or your friends and tell them right."
4. "It was a very good moment for me to just be like, okay, reset. This is a little more serious than I thought this was going to be."
5. "Just take the opportunity to do these things, and figure out how to build some grit along the way. These adversities help you build that grit and find a different level to come out of."

Resources

• Brad Brennan on LinkedIn: LinkedIn
• Brad Brennan on Instagram: @bradbrennan13
• Raken: www.rakenapp.com - The company where Brad Brennan serves as Director of Major Accounts.

Lis

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Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Dr. Lisa Garner Santa is an esteemed flutist and professor with a trajectory that has brought her experiences both locally and globally. With a musical and teaching journey that began in the small town of Colorado City, Texas, Dr. Garner Santa evolved into a world-class musician whose career has quite literally taken her around the world. She is notably acknowledged for her performances and her influential role as a professor of flute at Texas Tech University. Additionally, she holds the position of Director for the Institute for Faculty Excellence at Texas Tech's Teaching, Learning, and Professional Development Center.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks welcomes the multi-facetted Dr. Lisa Garner Santa, whose passion for music and teaching has led her down a path adorned with both accolades and adversities. Dr. Garner Santa shares her introspective reflections on growth, pedagogy, and the artistic pursuit — from the plains of West Texas to the top echelons of the music world.

Dr. Garner Santa reveals her roots in a tiny West Texas town and how her early influencers cultivated her burgeoning talents, leading to pivotal decisions that directed her towards music as her life's work. Dodging obstacles and embracing opportunities, the episode encapsulates her resilient spirit. By intertwining insightful anecdotes from her life with practical wisdom, Dr. Garner Santa paints a vivid tableau of what it is to transform setbacks into milestones.

Key Takeaways

• Lisa Garner Santa's initial passion for music was nurtured by meaningful mentorships and opportunities in her small-town upbringing.
• Her tenacity and self-belief led her to prestigious schools, international experiences, and to foreground performance as a career.
• Teaching emerged as a calling woven into her musical journey, influencing her deep commitment to students' individual growth.
• Lisa Garner Santa's resilience in facing academic adversity at prestigious institutions highlights the importance of self-advocacy.
• She embraces change and personal development, exemplified in her later pursuit of yoga, further enriching her teaching paradigm.

Notable Quotes

• "I haven't left performing. It's just, it looks a little different than it did at the beginning." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa
• "My coping mechanism was one that society rewards. And so that coping mechanism wasn't the same for all of my students, was a real turning point in the way that I teach." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa
• "I've been working myself into a frenzy. And does anyone even notice? So I was on one of those downward swings in academia. So I was like, you know what? I'm going to become a yoga teacher." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa
• "I came from this tiny town. I've gone to these schools. I haven't had classes like the classes that you're offering. I believe in my ability to do well at your school, and I would really appreciate an opportunity to prove that." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa
• "Everything that you need to know, and you just have to believe it." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa, in advice to her younger self

Resources

• Follow Dr. Lisa Garner Santa on her journey through her position at Texas Tech University.
• Discover more about the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, where she faced and overcame academic adversity.
• Explore the transformative practices of yoga that Dr. Garner Santa has integrated into her life and teaching.

Dive deep into the life and lessons of Dr. Lisa Garner Santa in this truly inspiring episode of "Becoming Undone." Don't miss out on the full story as Dr. Santa unveils her transformative journey. Stay tuned for more episodes packed with stories that redefine failure and success on the pathway to personal and professional growth.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Dr. F Scott Feil is a passionate physical therapist, educator, and entrepreneur with a profound journey of perseverance and self-discovery. Holding a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, he transitioned from clinical practice to academia and then into a novel role training other educators. Dr. Feil's tenacity through personal and professional trials is matched by his drive to learn and share knowledge, whether through teaching, writing, or through his podcasts – the Healthcare Education Transformation Podcast and Professors of Profit. With an undying spirit to uplift others, Dr. Feil stands out as a beacon of grit in the healthcare and educational community.

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode, Dr. F Scott Feil shares his journey through the twists and turns of pursuing a career in physical therapy and beyond. His narrative is one of resilience and determination as he navigates through personal loss, professional challenges, and the arduous path of passing the physical therapy board exam. The episode paints a vivid picture of an individual steadfast in the face of adversity, leading listeners through the transformative experiences that shape his career and outlook on life.

Dr. Feil discusses his various endeavors, including starting a side practice in mobile physical therapy and delving into the world of podcasting. His diverse interests and pursuits highlight the importance of flexibility, continuous learning, and the pursuit of one's true passion. With insight into the realities of healthcare, education, and business, Dr. Feil offers a unique perspective on how to thrive amidst obstacles and constantly evolving environments. Rich with SEO keywords like "physical therapy," "healthcare education," and "side hustles," the episode is a beacon for those in the crossroads of career and personal growth.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Kent Hance is an influential Texas figure known for his extensive career in politics and education. Hance's professional history includes serving as a state senator, US congressman, and the third chancellor of Texas Tech University. He played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Texas Tech, leading the university to unprecedented heights during his tenure from 2006 to 2014. In addition to his political and academic contributions, Hance has also practiced law and worked as a lobbyist. With a lifelong commitment to service and leadership, Hance continues to be active through his podcast, "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," where he shares his experiences and wisdom.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks sits down with the esteemed Kent Hance to delve into the life and legacy of a man whose journey is nothing short of inspirational. Beginning as a small-town West Texan with big dreams and unwavering determination, Hance's story embodies the essence of ambition and perseverance. The episode unveils Hance’s many achievements and the setbacks that propelled him further along his path, offering a true masterclass in personal growth and success.

Kent Hance's narrative is marked by personal anecdotes and pivotal moments that defined his trajectory from a young political hopeful to a key figure in Texas education. The episode paints a comprehensive picture of Hance's steadfast commitment to impacting his state and alma mater while highlighting his mother's influence and the life lesson on self-perception she imparted. With powerful stories and engaging discussions, this conversation is not just about success, but the transformational power of resilience and hard work in achieving greatness.

Key Takeaways

• Kent Hance's background includes influential roles such as state senator, US congressman, and chancellor of Texas Tech University, where he ushered in significant growth.
• Hance ran against George W. Bush for Congress in 1978, marking Bush’s only electoral defeat prior to the presidency.
• Despite setbacks in his political career, including an unsuccessful gubernatorial bid, Hance leveraged these experiences to eventually lead Texas Tech University.
• A crucial piece of advice from his mother shaped Hance’s perspective on self-worth and the importance of never considering oneself a 'little fish,' regardless of the pond’s size.
• Hance continues to contribute to his community by hosting a podcast, engaging in legal practice, and remaining active in Texas Tech affairs.

Notable Quotes

• "As long as you live, don't you ever let somebody tell you're a little fish. I don't care what size pond is." – Kent Hance
• "You got to be pretty good at it. And it was fun. I've enjoyed it. I enjoyed practice law I enjoyed being a state senator." – Kent Hance

Resources

• Kent Hance's podcast: "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas" - Available on Spotify and Google Podcast platforms.
• Texas Tech University official website: Texas Tech University

For an in-depth look into the compelling journey of Kent Hance and to discover the insights and anecdotes that make up his remarkable story, listen to the full episode of Becoming UnDone®.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Horn is a former collegiate athlete who has leveraged his passion for sports and teamwork into a successful career in entrepreneurship. With a history in banking technology and business development, Jeff took the life lesson of "swinging the bat" from his sporting days to become a business leader. He co-founded and now serves as the CEO of Masked Rider Capital, a hybrid between a private equity firm and a family office, operating in Lubbock, Texas. His journey also involves navigating personal challenges and using them as stepping stones to success. Jeff is a testament to continuous personal growth and contributing back to the community.

In this captivating episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks welcomes Jeff Horn, a true embodiment of resilience and relentless growth. As a former athlete turned prolific entrepreneur, Jeff shares his inspiring journey from the playing field to the competitive business arena, drawing parallels that are sure to pique listeners' interest.

Once a promising baseball and football player whose career was derailed by injury, Jeff exemplifies how early setbacks become fodder for future triumphs. The lessons learned on the field translated into his entrepreneurial spirit, where, fueled by a 'swing the bat' philosophy, he took calculated risks that led to his leadership role at Masked Rider Capital. The conversation delves into the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the determination to build a great life amidst uncertainty and change. With SEO-centric language that includes entrepreneurship, leadership, risk-taking, and personal development, this summary aims to attract an audience keen on self-improvement and business acumen.

Key Takeaways

• Success is often preceded by failures and setbacks, which serve as valuable learning experiences.
• Embracing change and taking calculated risks are essential for personal and professional growth.
• The importance of having a supportive partner and mentor in overcoming adversity and achieving success.
• The significance of giving back to the community that fosters one's growth.
• Understanding one's purpose beyond professional identity is key to navigating life's transitions.

Notable Quotes

• "Swing the bat. You only get one chance."
• "Just because you're successful doesn't mean you've always won."
• "There's only one constant, and that's change."
• "Sometimes people with more wisdom and experience can see what people can become rather than the people themselves."

Resources

• Masked Rider Capital
• Jeff Horn on LinkedIn

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest
Isaac Lee is a former United States Marine Corps officer and aviator who served with distinction and achieved the rank of Captain. His military career was notably marked by deployments and combat experience in the Pacific, as well as engagements in high-risk environments globally. As a testament to his leadership and tactical expertise, he was promoted to Captain on September 1, 2001, just days before the tragic events of 9/11 which significantly altered the course of his service. He has authored a book titled Hangar 4, capturing his profound military experiences and offering insights into the personal transformations faced by many in service. His narrative delves deep into the ethos of a Marine aviator, examining themes of mental toughness and the realities of life before and after combat.

Episode Summary
In an engaging exchange on the Becoming UnDone® podcast, host Toby Brooks navigates the remarkable journey of Isaac Lee, from his early dreams of becoming a professional baseball player to his transformative years as a Marine Corps aviator. The conversation offers a riveting look into Isaac Lee's life, unveiling the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that come with military service and leadership.

Isaac's story begins in the sports fields of West Texas, where commitment and camaraderie were imbued in him through rigorous coaching. His path takes an unexpected turn as he embraces a newfound purpose in the Marine Corps, scaling the ranks as an esteemed aviator. The episode poignantly captures the moment known to every service member — when training and simulation give way to the stark reality of combat. Amidst personal and professional challenges, including introspection on risk tolerance and mental health, Isaac navigates through life with unwavering determination, culminating in his decision to write his memoir.

Key Takeaways

• Isaac Lee's transition from aspiring athlete to a Marine Corps pilot illustrates the potency of self-belief and adaptability in facing odds.
• His candid reflection on the impact of 9/11 on military personnel underscores the profound shift from theoretical training to the tangibility of combat.
• The challenges of balancing the mental demands of military service with personal life reveal a common struggle among veterans.
• Isaac's proactive approach to mental health and personal unpacking of experience underscores the importance of seeking help and self-awareness.

Notable Quotes

• "The mental aspect of competition and athletics where if you are mentally dialed in, that you can really perform at the highest level possible for yourself." - Isaac Lee on the lessons from his father and high school coach.
• "It either ends on your terms and your timeline, or eventually someone tells you, like, hey, thanks but we don't need you anymore." - Isaac Lee on deciding to retire from the Marine Corps on his own terms.

Resources

• https://www.isaacglee.com/
• Buy Hangar 4

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Patrick Holcomb is a former member of the US Marine Corps with a distinguished 20-year career. After retiring in October 2021, Patrick embarked on a personal and ambitious challenge known as the "7 & 7" - running a marathon and climbing the highest mountain on each of the world's seven continents. Despite facing physical setbacks that halted his mountaineering quest, Patrick redirected his passion and resilience into authorship. His forthcoming book, "Where the Seams Meet," weaves a narrative deeply rooted in his love for baseball, life transitions, and the father-son relationship.

Episode Summary
In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the courageous journey of Patrick Holcomb, exploring his transition from a decorated marine to a high achieving author. The show captivates the listener from the onset, presenting Patrick's raw account of his ambitious "7 & 7" challenge and the profound personal growth experienced through the heartaches of unrealized dreams.

Patrick walks us through his initial spark of inspiration to conquer the global marathons and peaks, to the moment he knew his body could not sustain the pursuit on Denali. His narrative underscores the mental and physical fortitude needed to chase such aspirational objectives and the importance of recognizing when to let go for one's well-being and the safety of others. Following his departure from the Marine Corps, Patrick channels his focus into writing, grounding his story in themes of passion, vulnerability, and personal evolution.

Key Takeaways

• Patrick Holcomb's journey from a US Marine to attempting the "7 & 7" challenge and becoming an author.
• The pivotal realization of physical and emotional limits amidst the pursuit of climbing Denali.
• Transitioning life objectives post-military career and the newfound commitment to authorship.
• The significance of staying present and enjoying the process, rather than fixating solely on the end goals.
• The introspective nature of writing and the challenge of becoming vulnerable to connect with readers authentically.

Notable Quotes

• "You are either green and growing or ripe and rotting. There's no middle ground and no in between."
• "Enjoy the ride. It's about the journey."
• "But Denali, we did that in May of 2021. And there were a lot of warning signs for quite a while beforehand that my body was just not going to be able to do this forever."
• "Writing the book has changed me in that it unlocked that other side of me. It was a side that was dormant for a long time, but it's a side that I think will make me much more capable and successful and well-rounded in whatever comes next."

Resources

• Patrick Holcomb's upcoming book, "Where the Seams Meet," released on March 29th.
• Patrick Holcomb's author website: Author Patrick Holcomb
• Social media handles:
  • Patrick Holcomb on LinkedIn
  • Patrick Holcomb on Instagram: @Forevergiant2014

Tune in to the full episode for an in-depth look at Patrick Holcomb's compelling story and the insights he's gained through his remarkable life transitions. His experiences are not just inspiring but a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of change and adversity. 

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.