On Authentic Leadership Podcast

What does it take to lead when the environment is constantly changing?

In our newest episode of On Authentic Leadership, we sit down with Lt. Col. William B. Short, a U.S. Air Force Senior Air Battle Manager, combat veteran, former commander, and leader in the development of emerging warfighting capabilities.

Lt. Col. Short shares his journey through military leadership and command, the mentors who helped prepare him, and the lessons he has learned about building trust, empowering teams, communicating clearly, and leading through change.

We also explore the growing role of AI and data in leadership and decision making, the importance of vulnerability and authenticity, and why developing people remains at the heart of effective leadership.

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Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:15 Introduction to Leadership Journeys

02:34 Navigating Military Leadership

04:47 The Ladder of Leadership

07:06 Evolving Leadership Philosophy

09:26 Developing Human Capital in the Military

11:51 The Role of AI in Leadership Development

20:47 The Importance of Data in AI

21:54 Leadership Transition: From Assistant to Commander

22:41 Preparing for Command: Insights from Mentors

25:58 The Impact of Command on Organizational Culture

27:43 Deliberate Leadership: Setting Up for Success

29:40 Building Trust and Relationships in Leadership

29:40 Empowering Teams for Effective Leadership

38:04 The Role of Transparency in Leadership

42:05 Continuous Improvement and Vulnerability in Leadership

43:33 Building a Cohesive Team Culture

46:56 Navigating Leadership Challenges

51:22 Empowering Leadership Through Trust

54:50 The Importance of Clear Communication

57:39 Embracing Authenticity in Leadership

01:07:11 Managing Change Effectively

Keywords

Air Force leadership, military leadership, authentic leadership, leadership development, leadership podcast, leadership, trust in leadership, team building, leadership culture, command leadership, strategic leadership, AI and leadership, artificial intelligence, AI in leadership, data driven leadership, innovation, change management, organizational culture, empowering teams, communication, authenticity, vulnerability, human capital, military innovation, Air Force, Senior Air Battle Manager, Air War College, Advanced Battle Management System, ABMS, WIDOW, leadership lessons, developing leaders, future of leadership

A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel, Marine aviator, executive coach, and author of Readback: A Marine Aviator's Manual for Navigating Life's Hardest Lessons, Ryan Cherry shares the leadership principles forged through decades of service in high-pressure environments.

From the power of the debrief and leading with accountability to building trust through vulnerability, Ryan offers practical lessons on owning mistakes, developing resilient teams, and leading with integrity. He also reflects on the mentors, family, and experiences that shaped both his leadership philosophy and his new book, Readback.

Learn More About Ryan:

https://ryanacherry.com/

Order Readback:

https://www.amazon.com/Readback-Aviators-Navigating-Hardest-Lessons/dp/B0GFXPJDRX

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:15 Introduction

00:46 Ryan Cherry's Background

03:11 Leadership Influences and Purpose

06:15 Service, Humility, and Work Ethic

09:09 The Power of the Debrief

15:12 Leading with Accountability

22:58 Integrity and Accountability

28:16 Writing Readback

32:58 Vulnerability, Standards, and Trust

45:46 Family, Mentors, and Legacy

52:06 Closing Thoughts on Readback

Keywords

Ryan Cherry, Ryan A. Cherry, Readback, Readback book, On Authentic Leadership, leadership podcast, leadership, leadership development, servant leadership, accountability, integrity, trust, vulnerability, executive leadership, executive coach, U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Corps leadership, military leadership, aviation leadership, Marine aviator, leadership lessons, team culture, organizational leadership, leadership mindset, personal growth, mentorship, resilience, decision making, debrief, after action review, work ethic, humility, emotional intelligence, high performance teams, authentic leadership, leadership under pressure

In this episode, we sit down with William G. Kelly for a powerful conversation on leadership, mentorship, service, and personal growth.

Drawing from nearly four decades of military and public service, President Kelly reflects on the lessons that shaped him from his time in the U.S. Coast Guard to leading Christopher Newport University. Together, we discuss the importance of trust, resilience, empathy, humility, and why no one starts out as a great leader.

This episode explores how leaders can empower others, build strong communities, navigate adversity, and create environments where people are able to grow and succeed. From leadership during COVID to the value of mentorship and strategic vision, this conversation is filled with thoughtful insight and practical wisdom for leaders at every level.

Learn More About William Kelly: https://cnu.edu/who-we-are/president/
Chapters

00:48 Introduction to Leadership and Background

07:58 Transitioning from Military to Education

16:14 Building Trust and Resilience in Leadership

21:40 The Importance of Kindness in Leadership

26:39 Setting the Mood for Leadership

28:07 The Reset: Leadership Lessons from COVID

31:33 Reflecting on Growth and Improvement

37:17 The Importance of Mentorship

43:16 Strategic Vision in Higher Education

48:15 Empowering Others in Leadership

49:08 Empowering Your Team for Success

53:04 The Importance of Connection in Leadership

54:24 Navigating Challenges and Finding Support

59:48 Building a Supportive Community

01:04:12 The Power of Empathy and Humility in Leadership

01:08:21 Reflections on Leadership and Service

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass joins the conversation to share leadership lessons drawn from the highest enlisted position in the United States Air Force. From mentorship and professional development to communication, influence, and navigating social media, this episode explores what it truly means to lead in complex and evolving environments.

The discussion covers the importance of flat communication, training and development in the military, empowering the next generation of leaders, and the responsibilities that come with influence. Chief Bass also offers perspective on personal growth, mentorship, and trailblazing as a female leader in one of the world’s most demanding institutions.

Learn More About Jo Bass:

https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/2314276/joanne-s-bass/

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership

06:59 Navigating Social Media as a Leader

09:12 The Importance of Flat Communication

15:15 Training and Development in the Military

21:59 The Role of Mentorship in Leadership

28:40 Trailblazing as a Female Leader

31:07 The Importance of Leadership and Influence

32:03 Personal Influences and Lessons Learned

33:02 Navigating the Dark Side of Social Media

37:12 Empowering Women in the Military

42:01 Adapting Education for the Younger Generation

46:04 The Future of Military Leadership

49:31 The Journey Ahead and Personal Growth

In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Jamie Hathaway to explore a powerful journey from service and conflict to compassion and nonprofit leadership. Jamie shares how his experiences in Vietnam and humanitarian work shaped his values, sense of integrity, and commitment to helping others find hope and purpose.

The conversation dives into the heart of Make-A-Wish, highlighting the lasting impact of kindness, community support, and servant leadership. From lessons learned through children and families to insights on leadership, motivation, and love over fear, this episode offers meaningful reflections for anyone striving to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jamie Hathaway and Make-A-Wish

03:42 Jamie’s Journey: From Vietnam to Nonprofit Leadership

06:01 The Impact of War: Unexploded Ordnance and Humanitarian Work

08:40 The Challenges of Nonprofit Work and Integrity

11:09 Transitioning from Clear Path International to Make-A-Wish

13:54 Finding Purpose in Helping Others

15:24 The Power of Kindness and Community Support

17:15 Personal Reflections on Leadership and Integrity

19:44 The Lasting Impact of Make-A-Wish on Families

22:13 Building a Personal Brand in Nonprofit Work

28:08 The Impact of Make-A-Wish on Families and Communities

30:17 The Essence of Make-A-Wish: Love Over Fear

33:42 The Role of Donors in Making Wishes Come True

38:50 Understanding Human Motivations in Leadership

43:13 Servant Leadership: Empowering Others for Success

50:51 Lessons from Life: Wisdom from Children and Community

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Brian Daliege, Fire Captain of James City County Fire Department, to explore the realities of modern firefighting, the evolution of leadership in fire services, and the life-changing impact of mentorship in high-stress professions.

Brian opens up about his early life, his path into fire service, and the intense world of wildland firefighting. He breaks down how climate change is reshaping fire seasons, why community support matters more than ever, and the critical role volunteer firefighters continue to play.

This episode also dives deep into leadership. How to guide teams during crisis, connect with the next generation of firefighters, and build a culture rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability.

Whether you're interested in firefighting, public service leadership, emergency response, or the power of mentorship, this conversation delivers valuable insight from a leader who lives it every day.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Daliege

01:20 Brian's Journey: From Childhood to Firefighting

05:02 Wildland Firefighting: A Different World

09:52 The Impact of Climate Change on Fire Seasons

13:59 Family Life and Community Service

15:43 The Rigorous Path to Becoming a Firefighter

21:06 The Role of Volunteer Firefighters

24:39 Challenges Faced by Volunteer Firefighters

26:32 Understanding Emergency Response

28:41 Management Styles in Fire Services

34:14 Connecting with the New Generation

38:03 Acknowledging Mentorship and Support

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

Keywords

firefighting leadership, fire captain interview, wildland firefighting, fire service mentorship, emergency response, volunteer firefighters, first responder leadership, climate change fire season, leadership podcast, public service leadership

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Richard W. Schneider, Rear Admiral,(Retired) and President Emeritus of Norwich University. He shares his journey from the U.S. Coast Guard to higher education leadership, along with the lessons he learned about emotional intelligence, values, mentorship, and preparing future leaders.

Dr. Schneider reflects on the challenges of guiding an institution through change, building strong teams, and maintaining a culture rooted in service.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Background

02:40 Journey to Norwich University

05:14 Transitioning from Military to Higher Education

07:40 Leadership Lessons from Experience

10:09 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

12:38 Navigating Challenges in Higher Education

15:12 Building Relationships and Mentorship

17:26 Understanding Institutional Values

20:01 Preparing Future Leaders

22:16 The Role of Every Employee in Success

24:34 Conclusion and Reflections on Leadership

25:44 Vision and Resources: The Foundation of Leadership

29:01 Building Relationships: The Importance of Team Dynamics

32:19 Values and Consistency in Leadership

39:02 Navigating Change: Overcoming Resistance in Culture

45:54 Streamlining Operations: The Path to a Unified Campus

47:14 Building Community and Morale

48:38 Cultural Transformation in Education

49:46 Promoting Gender Equality in Sports

50:59 Leadership and Tradition

52:43 The Importance of Hope in Leadership

54:43 Flexibility and Adaptability in Leadership

57:24 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

01:01:47 Gratitude and Acknowledgment of Mentorship

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

In this week’s episode of The Colonel and The Coach Podcast, we sit down with Tony Bilich, a three-time Veteran’s Golf Association Champion and Purple Heart recipient, to talk about leadership, resilience, and the mental game that connects military service, golf, and life.

Tony shares his story of growing up in Hancock, Michigan, serving in the Purple Heart Division, and carrying the lessons of discipline, mindset, and teamwork from the battlefield to the championship fairways.

We also dive into the challenges of transitioning home, the power of relationships, and the importance of finding purpose beyond service.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tony Bilich and His Achievements

01:03 Growing Up in Hancock, Michigan

03:48 Military Journey and Personal Growth

07:45 Transitioning to Business and Leadership

11:24 Experiences in the Purple Heart Division

17:33 Winning the VGA Championships

24:07 Celebrating Success and Camaraderie

26:49 The Struggles of Transitioning Home

32:19 Support Systems: Family and Relationships

37:00 The Beauty of the Upper Peninsula

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Adam Doucette—creator, storyteller, and the force behind Default Positive. From the sidelines of college athletics to capturing the heart of the Boston Marathon, Adam shares how positivity can shape teams, athletes, and everyday lives.

We explore what it means to lead with optimism, the balance between sacrifice and happiness, and how finding the right story can inspire entire communities.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership and Adam Doucette

02:03 Adam Doucette's Journey and Background

05:02 The Importance of Positivity in Sports

09:35 Starting Default Positive: The Vision Behind It

11:58 Discovering Positivity in Unfamiliar Sports

13:13 Finding and Creating Stories in Sports

16:11 Highlighting Personal Stories: Jaren Duran's Journey

22:14 The Balance of Sacrifice and Happiness in Sports

28:19 Cultural Perspectives on Work-Life Balance

30:05 Connecting with Athletes and Their Stories

30:09 The Spirit of the Boston Marathon

33:49 Running Goals and Community

36:53 The Power of Positivity in Sports

39:54 Advice for Aspiring Creators

46:59 Future Aspirations and Growth

52:16 Closing Thoughts on Positivity

This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey

Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back.

Authentic leadership meets championship culture.

Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact.

Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research.

https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Vermont Green FC Sporting Director Adam Pfeifer and Head Coach Chris Taylor to talk about the challenges and lessons behind their journey to the 2025 USL League 2 Championship. They share how collaboration, trust, and authentic leadership shaped their season, and how working closely with staff, players, and the community helped turn a vision into a championship.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469

BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Vermont Green Soccer Club

00:49 Journey to Vermont and Club Formation

06:29 Building a Winning Team Culture

12:40 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development

19:27 Vision and Community Engagement

25:09 Cultural Impact of Soccer in Vermont

34:04 The Journey of Coaching at Different Levels

36:20 Building Credibility and Authenticity as a Coach

39:21 The Importance of Team Culture and Player Relationships

41:09 Embracing Adversity The Comeback Mentality

43:50 The Role of Fans and Community in Team Success

51:09 The Emotional Toll of Coaching and Support Systems

Keywords

Team Culture, Empowered Teams, Inspiring Leaders, Values Driven Leadership, Coaching Legacy