In this episode of Knowledgecast, Jack welcomes retired Air Force Colonel Rick Burgess — a former pilot, commander, and member of the investigative team that examined the 2003 Space Shuttle Columbia tragedy.

Rick walks listeners through the events of that day and the months that followed as a multidisciplinary team worked to uncover what caused the shuttle to disintegrate during re-entry, claiming the lives of all seven astronauts. He explains how the investigation revealed not only a physical failure — a piece of foam striking the left wing — but a deeper organizational one: a culture that had grown comfortable with small deviations from safety standards.

Through firsthand insight, Rick illustrates how “the normalization of deviance” can quietly take root in any organization when success overshadows caution and when communication breaks down across teams. The conversation highlights the complexity of leadership in high-pressure environments, the importance of accountability, and the courage required to confront hard truths before they lead to crisis.

Whether you lead a business, a team, or simply want to grow as a leader, this episode offers a sobering yet inspiring reminder that great leadership is not just about achievement — it’s about humility, vigilance, and learning from the past to protect the future.

Learn more at www.jackwwilliams.com/podcast