On Authentic Leadership Podcast

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 On Authentic Leadership, we sit down with Rob Dow, Head Men’s Soccer Coach at the University of Vermont. Rob shares his journey to UVM, the emotional highs and lows of championship games, and the philosophy that drives his coaching and leadership. From building a competitive program to balancing family life, Rob opens up about the values and vision that have shaped his career.

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership

01:06 Rob Dow's Journey to UVM

04:26 Community and Connection in Sports

09:29 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Championship Games

13:34 Coaching Philosophy and Early Challenges

19:32 Core Values and Mission Statement

22:58 Building a Team Culture

23:10 Building a Competitive Program

26:28 Recruitment Strategies and Player Development

30:29 Balancing Coaching and Family Life

35:25 Leadership and Mentorship in Coaching

39:34 Creating a Lasting Legacy

Keywords

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

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, we sit down with Retried Lieutenant General Lance "Spike" Landrum, USAF, for an in-depth conversation about leadership, teamwork, and the human side of service. From his journey to the Air Force Academy to powerful lessons on moral courage and mentorship, this episode is full of insights for leaders in every field.

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

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Chapters

00:00 Special Thanks

03:40 Introduction to General Spike Landrum

06:17 Journey to the Air Force Academy

07:12 The Path to Becoming a Pilot

09:43 Understanding the Air Force Beyond Flying

12:21 Leadership Development in the Air Force

14:55 The Importance of Teamwork and Leadership

17:19 The Evolution of Air Force Training

19:55 NATO and International Collaboration

22:06 Advice for Aspiring Service Members

24:57 Conclusion and Reflections

31:36 Flying High: A Memorable Mission

36:00 Leadership Lessons: The Role of a Leader

40:23 Moral Courage in Leadership

44:15 The Human Element of Leadership

48:35 Celebrating Mentorship and Connection

Keywords

Leadership, Leadership Podcast, Military, USAF

This episode is sponsored by Cloche, LLC — founded by lifelong hockey friends Jake Bell and Gavin Davison, Cloche reimagines traditional warm-up apparel by blending durability, comfort, and authentic hockey culture. Cloche delivers high-quality, customizable gear that helps players “WIN BEFORE PUCK DROP.”

Learn More About Cloche:

https://clochehockey.com/

In this powerful episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Colonel Ken “Det” Voigt, former Commander of the 552 Air Control Wing, and Colonel Jason “Snooch” Zemler, USAF (r), former Commander of the 552 Operations Group. Together, they share hard-earned wisdom from decades of service, offering rare insights into leadership, mentorship, and the challenges of command.

From navigating uncertainty and empowering teams, to the critical role of the enlisted corps and the lessons learned from combat, this conversation delivers timeless leadership principles that resonate beyond the military. Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, or in life, the stories and lessons shared here will inspire you to lead with trust, authenticity, and purpose.

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Insights

02:41 The Journey to Command: Personal Experiences

05:30 The Role of Mentorship in Leadership

08:02 The Importance of the Enlisted Corps

10:46 Leadership Dynamics: Trust and Empowerment

13:07 Navigating Challenges in Leadership

16:14 The Evolution of Leadership Perspectives

18:45 Building Effective Teams

21:27 The Impact of Young Leaders

24:20 Closing Thoughts on Leadership and Legacy

33:21 Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership

35:10 The Power of Inclusion in Team Dynamics

35:48 Reflections on Operation Enduring Freedom

43:06 Lessons from Combat Experience

48:24 The Importance of Time in Mentorship

54:36 Finding Harmony Between Work and Family

The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is a nonprofit made up of veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who share a love of riding motorcycles. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to support and defend those who have defended our country, with a focus on helping veteran brothers and sisters in need.

Learn More About the CVMA:

https://www.combatvet.us/

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

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Summary

In this episode, retired USAF Col Trent (r) “Carp” Carpenter and Lt. Col Char “Pixie” Carpenter share their journey with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA). Together, they discuss the organization’s mission, the role of women in veteran support, and the critical issues of mental health and suicide prevention. Through personal stories and community-driven efforts, they reveal the powerful ways veterans are connecting, healing, and finding strength in one another.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to CVMA and Its Mission

06:19 The Role of Women in CVMA

10:21 Addressing Veteran Suicide and Mental Health

19:43 Community Support and Engagement

24:28 Personal Stories and Impactful Events

31:03 Powerful Stories of Support for Veterans

34:41 The Importance of Community and Resources

38:16 Understanding the CVMA and Its Mission

42:26 Connecting with Veterans in Need

45:06 Final Thoughts on Visibility and Impact

Keywords

#CVMA

#CombatVeterans

#VeteransHelpingVeterans

#VeteranSupport

#MilitaryFamily

Summary

In this episode, The Colonel and The Coach dive into what makes leadership authentic across military, sports, and everyday life. From navigating cultural expectations to the power of mentorship, they share personal stories, real-world lessons, and practical insights. They explore the challenges of communication, the value of enduring relationships, and why stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for growth. No guest this week, just two leaders talking shop about leadership. that lasts.

Follow The Colonel and The Coach

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

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In 2000, 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott held her first lemonade stand to raise money for childhood cancer research while bravely battling cancer herself. That one small act raised $2,000 and started a movement that has since funded over 1,500 innovative research projects across nearly 150 institutions in the U.S. and Canada.

Today, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) leads groundbreaking initiatives like the Childhood Cancer Data Lab and the Crazy 8 Initiative, all with the goal of curing childhood cancer. Whether it’s hosting a lemonade stand, starting a fundraiser, or donating, everyone has a part to play in this mission.

Learn More About ALSF or get involved:

https://www.alexslemonade.org/

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

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Summary

In this powerful episode of On Authentic Leadership, Liz Scott, co-Executive Director of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, shares the incredible story of how her daughter Alex’s simple wish to help others sparked a nationwide movement. Liz reflects on the Foundation’s grassroots beginnings, the importance of community-driven action, and the leadership lessons learned along the way. From personal loss to national impact, this conversation is a moving testament to what’s possible when people come together with purpose, generosity, and heart.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:01 The Journey of Alex and the Foundation's Growth

02:22 Innovative Approaches to Pediatric Cancer Research

05:14 The Importance of Awareness in Cancer Research

07:18 Community Engagement and Fundraising Efforts

10:00 The Role of Personal Connections in Advocacy

12:13 Future Directions and Ongoing Challenges

19:42 The Stark Reality of Pediatric Cancer

21:45 The Role of Philanthropy in Research

23:28 The Heartbreaking Truth of Childhood Cancer

24:14 The Power of Community and Small Actions

28:22 Advocacy and Support for Families

36:03 Legacy and Inspiration from Our Children

Keywords

#AlexsLemonadeStand #AuthenticLeadership #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #PediatricCancerResearch #LeadershipPodcast #PurposeDriven #ThePowerOfCommunity #OneCupAtATime

Tyler Lagasse is an accomplished Special Olympics athlete, author, and advocate. Diagnosed with autism, Tyler has spent over 21 years competing in golf and Alpine Skiing. A proud Massachusetts native, he’s traveled across the U.S. for the Special Olympics USA Games and will represent the United States in Alpine skiing at the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. Among his many achievements, Tyler is especially proud of his induction into the Special Olympics Massachusetts Hall of Fame and receiving an honorary ESPY Award for his book, "What Do You Say? Autism with Character", co-authored with his mother.

Learn More About Tyler:https://www.specialolympicsusa.org/meet-the-team/turin-2025/alpine-skiing/tyler-lagasse

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

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BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬

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thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Consultation with The Colonel and The Coachhttps://link.thecolonelandthecoach.com/widget/bookings/tcatc-business-consultation

Summary

In this inspiring episode of On Authentic Leadership, Tyler Lagasse reflects on his journey of perseverance, growth, and leadership. From overcoming early challenges to finding strength in sport and family, he shares how belief in oneself and support from loved ones can help break through any barrier. We talk about his goals, his writing journey, memorable encounters with golf legends, and how he uses his platform to inspire youth and others navigating their own paths. This episode is a powerful reminder that authenticity, determination, and heart can take you further than anyone expects.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:07 Introduction to Tyler Lagasse and His Family

01:20 Overcoming Challenges and Achievements

04:27 Family Support and Navigating Autism

10:40 Goal Setting and Breaking Barriers

13:05 The Journey of Writing a Book

20:35 Future Aspirations and Bucket List

25:49 Introduction to Tyler's Journey in Sports

27:13 Memorable Experiences with Golf Legends

30:35 Breaking Barriers and Building Confidence

32:27 Inspiring Others: Tyler's Message to Youth

34:05 Life Lessons Through Sports

39:29 The Role of Family in Personal Development

43:01 Gratitude and Acknowledgment of Support

44:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Keywords

#TylerLagasse #SpecialOlympics #AuthenticLeadership #AutismAwareness #FlutieFoundation #AlpineSkiing #SpecialOlympicsUSA #AutismAdvocate #SportsLeadership #OnAuthenticLeadership #BelieveInYourself #Inspiration #CourageToLead #AdaptiveAthletes

Coach Devan McConnell is the High Performance Director for the Utah Mammoth Hockey Club and an Executive Board Member for the Strength & Conditioning Association of Professional Hockey. With a career spanning top-tier programs such as Stanford University, UMass Lowell, New Jersey Devils, and Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning, Devan has become a respected voice in athlete development and performance science at the highest levels of hockey.

Learn More About Devan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/devan-mcconnell-21698a36/

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

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

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Summary

In this episode, Devan McConnell, head of sports performance at the Utah Mammoth, shares his journey through the world of sports science and coaching. He discusses the importance of continuous learning, building trust with athletes, and the evolving role of data analytics in performance training. Devan reflects on his experiences transitioning from college to professional coaching, the impact of cultural differences on training and nutrition, and the significance of effective communication in coaching. He also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance for coaches and their families, providing insights into the future of sports science and coaching roles.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:43 Introduction to Devan McConnell

02:26 The Evolution of Coaching and Lifelong Learning

04:26 Integrating Technology and Sprinting in Training

07:17 Building Relationships and Trust in Coaching

09:17 The Art and Science of Performance Evaluation

11:30 Communication Styles in Coaching

13:55 Cultural Differences in Sports Performance

16:20 Lessons from Career Progression in Sports Science

23:54 Cultural Differences in Hockey Training

25:09 Nutrition Insights from European Players

27:44 The Importance of Nutrition in Performance

30:13 Communication with Coaches and Management

33:05 Career Aspirations and Growth in Sports Science

39:21 Understanding Athlete Readiness Without Technology

43:53 The Role of Family in Professional LifeKeywords

#nhl #DevanMcConnell #HockeyCoaching #AuthenticLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #PlayerDevelopment #UtahMammoth #StrengthAndConditioning #PerformanceCoaching #CoachingPhilosophy #TeamCulture

Jason Kersner is the head coach of the Sioux City Musketeers and a renowned culture builder in the world of hockey. With a coaching resume that spans Junior hockey and elite training programs like Pinnacle Performance and Skipjacks Hockey Academy, he’s known for his ability to shape high-performance teams on and off the ice. A co-author of The Mental Game of Ice Hockey, Kersner brings a deep understanding of leadership, resilience, and mentorship to every arena he enters.

Learn More About Jason:

https://musketeershockey.com/staff-directory/jason-kersner/1

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

thecolonelandthecoach.com

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(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Consultation with The Colonel and The Coach

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Summary

In this episode of On Authentic Leadership, hosts Cam Ellsworth and Matt Smith engage with Jason Kersner, head coach of the Sioux City Musketeers, discussing his unconventional journey in coaching, the importance of leadership and culture, and the challenges faced by elite athletes. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building trust, continuous learning, and creating a positive environment for player development. Jason shares insights from his experiences, highlighting the human element in coaching and the need for intellectual curiosity. The episode concludes with reflections on the pressures athletes face and the importance of relationships in the coaching profession.

Chapters

00:01 Introduction to Jason Kersner

02:16 Jason's Unconventional Path to Coaching

05:27 The Importance of Continuous Learning

09:22 Leadership Philosophy and Performance Pathway

13:05 Building Trust and Creating a Positive Environment

17:43 The Evolution of Coaching Styles

22:35 Intellectual Curiosity and Leadership Laboratory

26:28 The Role of Trust in Achieving Results

32:13 Friendship and Support in Coaching

34:53 Networking and Career Progression

37:54 The Pressure on Young Athletes

42:25 Leadership Lessons from Different Fields

50:00 The Importance of Culture in Sports

59:03 Reflections and Future Conversations

Keywords

leadership, coaching, culture, trust, mentorship, hockey, personal development, athlete pressure, continuous learning, relationships

Callum Jones is a professional lacrosse player for the Ottawa Black Bears, known for his gritty, physical play and relentless energy on the field. Originally from Burlington, Ontario, he discovered lacrosse by chance and quickly embraced its intensity. A dual-sport athlete at Norwich University, Jones played both hockey and lacrosse before committing fully to his professional lacrosse career. Drafted third overall by the New York Riptide in 2023, he brings a team-first mindset, strong leadership, and a deep appreciation for the small moments that shape success.

Learn more about Callum:

https://ottawablackbears.com/news/get-to-know-callum-jones/

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

thecolonelandthecoach.com

[email protected]

(802) 203-3371

Schedule A Consultation with The Colonel and The Coach

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Summary

In this conversation, Callum Jones shares his journey as a dual-sport athlete, transitioning from hockey to lacrosse, and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses his recruitment to Norwich University, the importance of leadership, and the impact of family support during his recovery from a serious injury. Callum emphasizes the significance of teamwork, work ethic, and the lessons learned from both sports and personal experiences, ultimately highlighting the legacy of excellence he aims to leave behind.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Career Overview and Transition to Defense

02:55 Challenges of Position Change

04:32 Recruitment Journey to Norwich University

07:17 Work Ethic and Personal Development

09:19 Leadership Lessons from College

10:29 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership

11:39 Celebrating Team Success and Acknowledgment

17:40 The Impact of Small Gestures

19:26 Coaching Philosophy and Communication

23:37 Future Aspirations in Coaching

24:23 Building a Player-Led Team

32:32 Transitioning from College to Professional Sports

33:23 Overcoming Adversity: A Personal Injury Story

38:59 The Role of Family and Support Systems

40:49 The Joy of Playing Professionally

41:43 Memorable Moments in Sports

44:30 Evolving as a Leader

Keywords

Callum Jones, lacrosse, hockey, Norwich University, leadership, sports, injury recovery, professional athlete, teamwork, coaching