HeroFront

By Josh White

HeroFront is a veteran owned podcast. We listen to inspiring stories from some of the greatest "heroes" around the world to include leaders in business, inspiring authors, innovative entrepreneurs, an... more

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FAQs about HeroFront:

How many episodes does HeroFront have?

The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.

HeroFront episodes:

January 08, 2025 The Truth About Combat: How I Overcame Fear and Led Under Fire with General Mike Drowley
General Michael "Johnny Bravo" Rowley, a true living legend in the Air Force. From his humble beginnings as a military brat to his rise through the ranks, this decorated pilot shares his remarkable journey - from navigating the fog of war in the A-10 Warthog to leading at the highest levels of the Pentagon. Discover the leadership lessons he learned under fire and the mental resilience he developed in combat, Hear how his chance encounter with leadership guru Simon Sinek shaped his approach to guiding airmen, and learn why the brotherhood of ground and air forces is so vital to mission success.
0:00 - Intro
02:55 - Connection with Simon Sinek and leadership development
04:25 - Josh's experience meeting Simon Sinek at Whiteman Air Force Base
08:40 - Josh's Airman of the Year experience and breakfast with Simon Sinek
12:25 - General's TED Talk experience and leadership philosophy
14:40 - Hesitation to do the TED Talk and Simon Sinek's encouragement
18:00 - Generational shift and personal reflections on feeling "old"
20:10 - Josh's transition to civilian life and the challenges of adapting
22:40 - General's upbringing as a military brat and journey through the Air Force
26:25 - Significant events in the General's career, including 9/11
30:10 - The General's experience at AFOTECH and the team dynamics
33:00 - Importance of relationships and communication at AFOTECH
35:00 - General's combat experience and the mission discussed in his TED Talk
38:10 - Navigating through weather and engaging enemy forces
42:10 - Importance of mental resilience and combat stress management
45:00 - Role of informal support systems and having a "wingman"
48:25 - Balancing high-level decisions and staying connected to airmen
52:00 - Communicating the "why" behind decisions to the team
54:40 - General's message to airmen about adaptability and resilience
1:00:10 - Challenges and responsibilities in the global context
1:04:00 - Emphasis on leadership development and professional competence
1:08:00 - Josh's firsthand experience and observations in Israel
1:10:25 - General's call sign story and personal anecdote
1:13:40 - Closing remarks and gratitude
A 1996 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Maj. Gen. Drowley is a command pilot with more than 2,400 flight hours in the iconic A-10 Warthog, including over 200 combat hours. His combat experiences, particularly in close air support, exemplify the deep bond between air and ground forces. Throughout his career, he has commanded at every level—flight, squadron, group, and wing—while also holding pivotal roles at the United States Air Force Academy, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Beyond his operational excellence, Maj. Gen. Drowley is a passionate advocate for leadership, mental resilience, and teamwork. From delivering a TEDx talk to collaborating with Simon Sinek, he has inspired countless individuals within and beyond the military.
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1h 17min
September 25, 2024 Leading with Gratitude: Major General Alice Trevino’s Guide to Resilience, Self-Care, and Authentic Leadership
In this insightful episode of the HeroFront Podcast, host Josh White welcomes Major General Alice W. Trevino, a distinguished leader and trailblazer in the United States Air Force and Space Force. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, General Trevino oversees a staggering $825 billion portfolio, guiding over 8,000 contracting professionals who execute programs valued at approximately $70 billion annually. Commissioned from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1993, her extensive career includes deployment experiences supporting combat, humanitarian, and peacekeeping operations worldwide, and leadership roles such as the senior contracting official in Afghanistan for U.S. Central Command.

In this episode, General Trevino shares insights on personal growth, leadership, and resilience, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and authenticity. She discusses her health journey and the lessons she’s learned, including her memorable mantra, "squeeze your glutes," which has guided her recovery and approach to life. General Trevino also opens up about her mission to inspire and recruit the next generation of contracting professionals, offering invaluable advice for junior Airmen, Guardians, civil servants, and potential recruits interested in contracting.

Join us as we explore Major General Trevino’s inspiring journey, her philosophy on leading with authenticity and inclusivity, and the transformative power of valuing every individual’s contribution. Whether you’re navigating your own path in the military or seeking motivation in personal growth, this conversation is packed with lessons and inspiration that will resonate with all.
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1h 2min
September 11, 2024 The Woman in the Arena: How Theresa Carpenter is Changing the Narrative on Mental Health and Advocacy in the Military
In this powerful episode of HeroFront, host Josh White is joined by Theresa Carpenter, an active-duty Navy Commander with an extraordinary 29-year military career. Theresa’s journey from enlisted member to Chief Public Affairs Officer for NATO’s Allied Maritime Command is inspiring, but it’s her work as a storyteller and advocate for mental health and positive change that truly shines.
Together, Josh and Theresa dive deep into how childhood trauma shaped their leadership paths, the importance of speaking truth to power in uniform, and navigating mental health recovery.
With over 140 episodes of her podcast S.O.S. (Stories of Service), Theresa is no stranger to highlighting everyday heroes, and she shares her valuable insights into public relations and overcoming adversity in both her personal and professional life. Don’t miss this compelling conversation that blends vulnerability, resilience, and the power of storytelling.
Check out her incredible podcast S.O.S. (Stories of Service) and while you're at it, check out her interview with me as the guest! Episode #113
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s-o-s-stories-of-service-ordinary-people-who-do/id1562487015?i=1000637905017
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1h 28min
August 29, 2024 The Angel of Death's Final Mission: Trailblazing a Legacy and Reflecting on 32 Years of Service with Col. Allison Black
In this compelling episode of HeroFront, Josh White interviews Col. Allison Black, the legendary "Angel of Death," as she reflects on her 32 years of service in the U.S. Air Force.
Col. Black shares her profound experience during 9/11, the immediate response, and the surge of patriotism that followed. She opens up about her final mission, the emotional transition to civilian life, and the lessons learned along the way.
The discussion delves into the unintended inspirational impact of her actions from being the first female operator on an AC-130 Gunship, her leadership philosophy emphasizing fairness and advocacy, and the importance of humility.
This episode is a compelling exploration of leadership, resilience, and the impact of a lifetime dedicated to service.
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1h 37min
August 14, 2024 THE 2024 AFSA SUMMIT PODCAST! Featuring The Brilliant Minds Behind CRE8 FORCE
The AFSA Summit 2024 special episode! Check out the live feed from https://www.facebook.com/AFSAHQ

In this special episode of the AFSA Summit Podcast, join Josh White (HeroFront Podcast), as he speaks with AFSA influencers Kai Billings, and Mike Manning (CRE8 FORCE) who are capturing the AFSA Summit experience and interviewing our Airmen and Guardians. They also have backup support from Martin Foster from Passing the Torch Podcast and Miguel Estrella from The Mentorship. Keep an eye out for these folks to share your story!

Join us in this episode as we dive deep into leadership, innovation, and empowerment within the Air Force culture. The conversation explores a range of key topics, from fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to the challenges of mental health and authenticity as a content creator.

The hosts share personal anecdotes and experiences on the importance of treating people as humans, embracing storytelling as a leadership tool, and overcoming comparison. They also highlight the role of allyship and how empathetic, supportive leadership can foster growth and success. From the funny moments of podcasting mishaps to more serious discussions on workplace bias and military retention, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, personal growth, and how to create positive change in the Air Force and beyond.

Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt conversation that reminds us of the power of empathy, storytelling, and authentic leadership.

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2h 15min
July 17, 2024 ‘Instagram Decoded’ With Amanda Pelkowski: Social Media & The Military, Leading as A Woman, and Loss
In this episode of HeroFront, I'm honored to welcome Lt Col Amanda J. Pelkowski, the Commander of the 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Amanda oversees a wide range of programs and services that support the well-being of 39,000 active duty, civilian, dependent, and retired personnel. With a team of 700 Air Commandos and a $17 million operating budget, she provides strategic direction for 70 diverse activities and facilities. Since entering the Air Force in 2008 through the United States Air Force Academy, Amanda has held various positions across different levels and deployed three times to Southwest Asia in support of multiple operations. Today, we'll dive into Amanda's experiences in the military and her journey through leadership roles, the impact of social media on military life, and the importance of emotional intelligence and effective communication. We discuss the challenges and opportunities of using social media for recruitment and the significance of cultural sensitivity in military funeral honors. Amanda shares personal stories about overcoming online hate, promoting gender equality, and the power of accountability and personal growth. We'll also touch on the critical role of the Force Support Squadron in providing cradle-to-grave support for Airmen and the emotional weight of honor guard duties. Get ready for an insightful conversation about leadership, resilience, and the power of sharing our stories.
Segment 1: Military Life and Social Media
Josh White and Amanda discuss the challenges and benefits of maintaining an online presence while serving in the military.
Amanda shares her experiences of receiving both positive and negative feedback from superiors.
Josh talks about his viral TikTok video and the importance of consistency in building trust with followers.
Segment 2: Recruitment and Social Media
Amanda discusses using social media for Air Force recruitment.
Success story of a Facebook page for a golf course that improved viewership and engagement through positive content.
Discussion on Facebook monetization influencing content direction.
Segment 3: Promotions and Leadership
Josh reflects on his 20 years in the Air Force and shares his experiences with promotions.
Importance of mindset shift in military promotion ceremonies and dealing with online hate.
Amanda emphasizes leadership potential and recognizing different strengths and abilities.
Segment 4: Personal Growth and Accountability
Josh shares his journey of overcoming toxic behavior and the influence of his father and friend, Jamie Ashburn.
Amanda shares a personal story about meeting her husband and the challenges of gender inequality in the military.
Segment 5: Gender Bias and Self-Care
Amanda discusses her experiences of bias and discrimination at the Air Force Academy.
Importance of focusing on personal happiness and self-care.
Amanda’s hard work and dedication evident in her meet and greet with Josh.
Segment 6: Leadership Challenges
Amanda talks about managing multiple responsibilities and the importance of time management.
Josh reflects on the emotional toll of disciplining subordinates and the need for emotional resilience.
Segment 7: Parenting, Travel, and Support
Discussion on emotional support systems, including pets and personal relationships.
Josh shares his experiences traveling as an airman and his love for dogs.
Segment 8: FSS and Honor Guard Duties
Amanda explains the diverse roles of FSS, from child care to mortuary services.
Josh shares his experience recovering an airman’s remains and the emotional weight of honor guard.
Segment 9: Military Experience on Social Media
Amanda emphasizes meeting Air Force personnel on social media and the complexities involved.
Segment 10: Mental Health and Grief
Josh and Amanda share personal stories about mental health struggles and the importance of awareness and support.
Amanda reflects on her friend Michelle’s suicide and the impact it had on her.
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1h 38min
July 10, 2024 ‘Never Alone’ A Military Spouse’s Journey to Healing Through Family Trauma, Addiction, and Loss with Author Jessica Manfre
In this deeply engaging episode of HeroFront, host Josh White sits down with Jessica Manfre to explore her journey, insights from her book “Never Alone: Ruth and the God Who Goes Before Us,” (Found on Amazon) and her profound experiences as a military spouse. Jessica opens up about the challenges she faced in writing her book, including navigating personal trauma and vulnerability, particularly in her relationship with her father, a severe alcoholic.
Throughout the conversation, Jessica shares intimate stories about her journey through grief, including the loss of her stepmother and the profound impact on her identity. She reflects on pivotal moments such as reconnecting with her stepfather after a decade, the healing power of therapy, and how these experiences shaped her path to becoming a therapist herself.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into resilience, faith, and community support, as Jessica discusses the profound themes from her book and their relevance to both military and civilian audiences. From her role as a voice actor for the audiobook version of “Never Alone” to her advocacy for military spouses facing loneliness and isolation, Jessica’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and human connection.
Whether you’re interested in mental health advocacy, personal growth, or finding inspiration in challenging times, this episode offers deep wisdom and encouragement. Join us as Jessica Manfre shares her story of resilience and the transformative power of faith and community.
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1h 12min
July 03, 2024 ‘The Shoulders of Giants’ How Preserving Military History Will Inspire Future Generations to Come w/Museum Specialist Jonathan Holmes
Visit:
www.aamhsociety.org
To support the museum and this amazing project!
In this episode of the HeroFront Podcast, we are honored to welcome Jonathan Holmes, a retired USAF Chief and EOD technician, now serving as the Aerospace Museum Specialist, Curator, and Media Developer at the Air Force Armament Museum at Eglin AFB. Jonathan shares his expertise on preserving and accurately capturing history while balancing sensitivity and inclusivity. A balancing act of masterful discussion and presentation.
Jonathan and Josh explore the challenges and opportunities in honoring and preserving African American military history, particularly the contributions of veterans who helped pave the way for Eglin AFB today. They emphasize the transformative power of passionate storytelling and the importance of genuine enthusiasm, empathy, and mutual understanding in overcoming challenges and making a positive impact.
In Johnathans words:
“Honoring those who paved the way before us fills me with deep gratitude and reverence. Their sacrifices and contributions echo through time, reminding us of the legacy we inherit. Capturing stories that would have otherwise been forgotten feels like reclaiming lost treasures; each narrative is a thread in the tapestry of history, and preserving them is a solemn duty. It's a profound sense of responsibility and pride, recognizing the shoulders upon which we stand. These stories are not just words on a page; they are the essence of bravery, resilience, and humanity. To honor them is to ensure they continue to inspire future generations, forging a connection that bridges the past with the present. As we delve into these stories, we find common threads of perseverance and sacrifice that resonate across time and space, a humbling reminder of the enduring legacy of those who came before us.”
Summary of Topics Discussed:
0:00 - Roles at the Air Force Armament Museum and media development strategies.
4:11 - Advice for young African Americans joining the military, emphasizing foundation, deployability, and lifestyle acceptance.
8:54 - Personal military service journey, health challenges, and transition to civilian life.
14:45 - Reflections on past experiences, honoring predecessors, and personal background.
20:50 - Discussion on the Air Force's history, culture, and leadership roles.
26:02 - Importance of recognizing marginalized groups' contributions and preserving history.
30:57 - Buried history of the Eglin 17 atrocity and race relations.
37:28 - Efforts to increase representation of African American history at the museum.
44:06 - Creation of a nonprofit for a museum dedicated to African American military history and design of new historical structures.
51:13 - Passion for media development, leadership, and personal stories of resilience.
Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of accurately preserving history and honoring those who have contributed to our military heritage.
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1h 4min
June 19, 2024 Juneteenth Special! How Abigail Curtis is Leveraging Our Diverse Perspectives to Maintain Our Nation's Unparalleled Defense
Juneteenth Special! This is a co-led interview as the talk with Abigail Curtis is based off her incredible article she released through the legendary ‘COME-UNITY Magazine’. Check out her article here:
https://issuu.com/kmcclure/docs/come_unity_abigail_cover_2/s/50272045?
"COME-UNITY Magazine and Podcast led by the CEO Kitara Johnson, is proudly presented as a program of the nonprofit COME-UNITY Education and Empowerment Center. Our nonprofit is made possible through the generous support of veterans, community leaders, and changemakers who are deeply committed to fostering UNITY, INCLUSION, and providing crucial support to underrepresented community members. Their dedication and contributions drive our mission forward, ensuring that COME-UNITY remains a platform for positive change, celebration of diversity, and empowerment for all."
Intro:
Lt Col Abigail S. Curtis stands as a beacon of inspiration within the halls of Fairchild Air Force Base, serving as the distinguished Commander of the 92d Maintenance Squadron. Her remarkable journey is not just about rank and accolades, but a testament to the enduring values of diversity, inclusion, resilience, and leadership. Join us as we delve into her story, exploring the trials and triumphs that have shaped her into the exemplary leader she is today. From her humble beginnings as a military child to her current role as squadron commander, she has defied expectations and shattered stereotypes at every turn. As we reflect on her story, let us not only celebrate her achievements but also heed the lessons she imparts. For in Lt Col Curtis's journey, we find inspiration and hope for a future where diversity is not just embraced but celebrated, and where resilience knows no bounds.
Talking Points Include:
—Early Life and Military Upbringing—
Lt Col Curtis's upbringing was steeped in the rich tapestry of military life, where diversity was not just a concept but a lived reality. Growing up in a close-knit military community, she absorbed the values of service, sacrifice, and solidarity. The influence of her father, a military serviceman, was profound, instilling in her a sense of duty and discipline from a young age. His commitment to his country and his family laid the foundation for Lt Col Curtis's own journey of service.
—Embracing Diversity and Overcoming Adversity—
Lt Col Curtis's personal journey as a woman of color in an interracial relationship is a testament to her resilience in the face of adversity. She reflects on the obstacles she encountered and the strength she drew from her experiences. Through hardship and discrimination, Lt Col Curtis emerged stronger, her resolve unshaken. Her story underscores the importance of embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, not just within the military but in society at large.
—Leadership Journey in the Air Force—
Lt Col Curtis's ascent through the ranks of the Air Force is a testament to her leadership prowess. From her early days as a young officer to her current role as squadron commander, she has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication. Her assignments and deployments have taken her to the far corners of the globe, where she has played a vital role in global airlift operations.
—Advocacy and Impact—
In her capacity as a Defense Legislative Fellow in Congress, Lt Col Curtis has wielded her influence to effect change and shape policy. Her advocacy for women, children, and families has left an indelible mark on the defense landscape. Through her leadership philosophy and vision for the 92d Maintenance Squadron, Lt Col Curtis continues to inspire those under her command to reach for new heights and push beyond perceived limitations. Her legacy is not just one of rank and title, but of service and sacrifice, of breaking barriers and blazing trails for future generations to follow.

(Disclaimer: HeroFront is privately owned and operated. This episode is not sponsored by DoD, USAF, or Fairchild AFB)
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57min
June 05, 2024 Celebrating Pride Month: ‘Forging Queer Leaders’ w/LGBTQ+ trailblazer Bree Fram
Today, we have the honor of speaking with Colonel Bree Fram, a trailblazing astronautical engineer, active-duty officer, and the highest ranking trans member in the United States Space Force. Not only is she a decorated leader in her field, but she's also a co-host of the groundbreaking podcast 'Forged in Fire: LGBTQ+ Leadership,' where she and her colleague explore the transformative power of adversity in shaping exceptional leaders. Together with Liz Cavallaro, Bree co-authored 'Forging Queer Leaders,' (which just came out!) a compelling exploration into the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and leadership development, showcasing how embracing diversity drives remarkable outcomes. From her pivotal role in space acquisition policy to her advocacy for LGBTQ+ military service, Bree's journey is one of courage, resilience, and unyielding determination.
During our discussion, she discusses her experiences breaking down barriers and stereotypes as one of the first openly transgender service members. Bree also explores the unique leadership skills developed through experiences in the LGBTQ community, such as authenticity, self-awareness and creating supportive environments. Listeners gain insights into her pivotal role in space acquisition policy and advocacy for LGBTQ military service. Bree also reflects on the opportunities and challenges of building the new Space Force, including managing change while protecting core missions. Throughout the discussion, Bree emphasizes the importance of inclusion, community and paying experiences forward to pave the path for future generations. Her story is one of inspiration that shows the power of overcoming adversity through grit and representation.
Get her book on Amazon here: 
https://a.co/d/ePKGLyI  
Check out her Podcast here: https://www.breefram.com/forged-in-fire-podcast.html
Talking Points: 
0:00 - Introduction 
5:00 - Importance of inclusion and retention in the military 15:00 - LGBTQ leadership experiences and personal growth 25:00 - Space Force importance and opportunities 
30:00 - Transgender stereotypes and coming out experiences 
35:00 - Resilience through adversity and community 
45:00 - Being a trailblazer and overcoming challenges
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1h 1min

FAQs about HeroFront:

How many episodes does HeroFront have?

The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.

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