Passing The Torch with Martin Foster

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Blake Stilwell is U.S. Air Force Veteran (combat cameraman), writer, and the Editor-in-Chief of We Are The Mighty. He covers military history, veteran issues, and defense news, and previously worked in film/television production (including ABC News, NBC Olympics, and HBO) and with the White House Communications Agency.

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Timestamps:

00:00 Networking and making business deals

04:05 First-time manager reflections

09:00 Importance of leadership in life

09:54 Leadership and team guidance

13:36 Being fired and fighting back

17:38 Embracing and learning from failure

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People and Names mentioned in the episode:

Jasmin Hurley

Jon Stewart

Marshawn Lynch

Darryl “BullyJuice” Williams

Ken Fisher

Michelle Lang

Fleetwood Mac

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Resources:

Blake's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakestilwell/

We Are The Mighty: https://www.wearethemighty.com/

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Podcast Summary:

Martin Foster and Blake Stilwell during the 2026 Military Influencer Conference. A wide-ranging, candid conversation about leadership, veteran life, career progression, and the value of persistence.

Key Topics & Highlights

⬛ Hometown Connection: The episode opens with a light-hearted discussion about the surprising coincidence that Blake Stilwell’s best friend shares the same name as Martin Foster and also lives in Dayton.

⬛ Military Influencer Conference (MIC): Blake Stilwell reflects on his long-standing involvement with MIC, both as a reporter and now as a participant, underscoring the conference’s unique ability to facilitate real business, networking, and personal advancement for veterans and entrepreneurs (02:08).

⬛ Editor-in-Chief Journey: Blake Stilwell shares his experiences and challenges stepping into his first major leadership role at We Are the Mighty, highlighting the importance of effective leadership, learning from early career missteps, and the satisfaction of growing a brand and team (04:05, 09:00).

⬛ Leadership Lessons: Drawing from past mistakes and observing both good and bad examples, Blake Stilwell discusses the critical role of practical, supportive leadership, aiming to be the type of leader he wished he had in earlier roles (09:00, 10:41).

⬛ Inspirational Encounters: He recounts life-changing moments from past MICC events, particularly interactions with Jon Stewart regarding advocacy for veterans, and highlights ordinary people making extraordinary impacts, such as the Torres family and Michelle Lang (12:19, 14:09).

⬛ Comfort Zones and Growth: Blake Stilwell opens up about his discomfort in the spotlight and how the conference pushes him out of his comfort zone, ultimately helping him grow as a communications professional (16:58).

⬛ Wisdom for the Next Generation: He closes with advice to not fear failure—emphasizing resilience and the importance of bouncing back, as well as his pithy written motto: “Don’t stop” (17:38, 19:08).

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Lyndsey Akers is a highly regarded communications strategist most known for the platforms she curates for impact-focused brands and the authentic relationships she cultivates with a wide range of stakeholders. She is the CEO of Akers&Co, a boutique communications consultancy, and a passionate advocate for military families. With more than 15 years of experience in high-profile communications roles spanning professional sports organizations, Capitol Hill, and national nonprofits, Lyndsey helps leaders and organizations reach new levels of influence through strategic guidance, thoughtful brand amplification, and respected media placements.

After a decade in the industry, Lyndsey stepped away from the traditional corporate communications track to build a business rooted in purpose and impact. She founded Akers & Co in 2020 to partner with mission-driven organizations and visionary leaders whose work aligns with her values. Today, the firm works with some of the most influential impact-focused military and veteran-connected brands, helping them expand their reach, elevate their leadership voices, and strengthen the communities they serve. Akers&Co has grown into a sought-after boutique PR powerhouse known for thoughtful strategy, high-touch advisory, and meaningful results.

A trusted advisor and strategic thought partner, Lyndsey is known by clients for her ability to see the bigger picture while helping leaders clearly articulate their voice, story, and influence. She helps founders, executives, and changemakers identify opportunities they may not see for themselves and equips them with the strategy, confidence, and positioning for meaningful growth. Through carefully aligned media, partnerships, and visibility opportunities, she ensures public relations efforts support broader business goals while building long-term credibility and reputation.

An Air Force spouse, Lyndsey is widely respected in both the military and business communities as a passionate champion for military-connected missions and families. She works closely with the Air & Space Forces Association and currently serves as Senior Consultant of its United Forces & Families program, helping elevate the voices and leadership of military families across the force. In recognition of her leadership and advocacy, Lyndsey was named the 2026 Armed Forces Insurance Air Force Spouse of the Year, a distinction honoring her impact in strengthening the military family community.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

1:21 Armed Forces Insurance Air Force Spouse of The Year Award

2:42 What Left Lyndsey Speechless

4:33 The Military Spouse “Change Makers”

7:16 What People Don't See Behind the Recognition

10:13 Building an Identity Beyond “Military Spouse”

16:21 Where Does the Military Spouse Identity End?

20:15 Gift / Birthday Surprise

20:55 Why Passing The Torch Exists

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Episode Quotes:

True Motivation Behind Military Advocacy: "We're not doing it because there's this shiny thing at the end. We're doing it because we want to help. We want to make things better and like leave an improved military family for those who come behind us." (03:50)

Building Community Among Military Spouses: "it's not even one story that ever sticks out to me, but the culmination and the combination of all those stories where you leave with a sense of just awe, you leave with a sense of unity. And those are the people that I think you and I would continue giving a voice to." (05:30)

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People and Names mentioned in the episode:

Jay-Z

Tom Brady

Mark Wahlberg

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Resources:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndseyakers/

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

Website: https://www.akers.co/founder

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Podcast Summary:

The discussion centers around Lyndsey Akers's achievements, identity, and her evolving role within the military spouse community, highlighting themes of leadership, identity, advocacy, and the often unseen challenges behind public recognition.

Key Topics & Highlights

⬛ Achievements and Recognition

• Martin Foster celebrates Lyndsey Akers's honor as Armed Forces Insurance Air Force Spouse of the Year, acknowledging her multifaceted contributions beyond the title of "military spouse" (01:21).
• Lyndsey Akers describes the challenges of receiving public accolades, admitting it feels unnatural for someone accustomed to working behind the scenes and championing others (02:03).

⬛ Military Spouse Life & Identity

• Both speakers discuss the unique intersection of being recognized for supporting others, and finding fulfillment in building community and championing causes (00:49).
• Lyndsey Akers emphasizes the importance of developing a personal identity beyond the military spouse role, rooting oneself in values and passions that outlast service life (11:17).
• She shares her own journey, notably how becoming a mother brought new challenges and a deeper connection to typical military spouse experiences (16:50).

⬛ The Unseen Work Behind Success

• The conversation explores the effort, late nights, and emotional labor behind visible achievements, debunking the myth that awards tell the whole story (08:11).
• Both discuss the importance of "reps, reputation, and trust” in building credibility in the community, highlighting the need for consistency and support networks (09:17).

⬛ Advocacy & Leadership at Every Level

• Lyndsey Akers delivers an encouraging message to enlisted spouses, stressing that leadership and impact aren’t tied to rank but to initiative and passion (06:51).
• She notes the significance of giving voice to diverse changemakers within the spouse community, and the power of collective advocacy (05:47).

⬛ Personal Connections & Mutual Support

• The importance of partnership—both in marriage and community—is a central theme. Martin Foster and Lyndsey Akers agree: “We are better together,” a mantra extending to all layers of support in military and family life (15:53).
• They share personal anecdotes, including the significance of Martin Foster's wife joining his 100th episode and the shared challenges of post-service identity for veterans and spouses alike (14:15).

⬛ Podcasting as Purpose

• Martin Foster clarifies that his podcast is a "labor of love,” intended as a grassroots movement to add value through amplifying meaningful stories and creating an outlet for leadership and connection (22:03).
• Lyndsey Akers acknowledges the work behind sustaining such a project and voices her gratitude for being part of the conversation (23:27).

⬛ Conclusion

The episode is a dialogue on advocacy, identity, and the unseen dedication of military spouses. It offers validation to those serving behind the scenes, encourages personal growth beyond official roles, and highlights the power of community and storytelling in effecting positive change.

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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General Dave Goldfein (United States Air Force, Retired) was the 21st Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) and a 1983 graduate of the Air Force Academy. 

Over a 37-year career spanning 21 assignments, he accumulated more than 4,200 flying hours and flew combat missions in operations including Desert Storm, Allied Force, and Enduring Freedom.

In 1999, while commanding the 555th Fighter Squadron, his F-16 was shot down over Serbia, leading to a combat search-and-rescue mission that brought him home from hostile territory. 

But before all of that, he was a young cadet who nearly walked away from the Air Force Academy altogether—taking a year off and riding a bicycle roughly 5,000 miles across America before deciding to return.

In this episode we explore his connection to Malcolm Gladwell’s “Bomber Mafia,” the challenges and innovations faced in modern warfare, and the impact of technology, artificial intelligence, and precision in military strategy today. General Goldfein shares personal stories about resilience, mentorship, working alongside legendary leaders, and what it means to “make time count” for the next generation.

Through lighthearted segments, stories about fighter pilot culture, and authentic discussions on character, competence, and international diplomacy, General Goldfein offers inspiring wisdom for leaders at every stage.

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Timestamps:

00:00 - Goldfein’s biography and the path from cadet to Air Force chief

02:29 - Why he is my second favorite CSAF to guest on the show

03:39 - Family ties between General Jumper and the Goldfein family

04:37 - The zero turn lawnmower story and surviving a rollover accident

06:23 - Why great senior officers are shaped by great chiefs

07:55 - “Why is life great right now?” and serving the grandkids

08:23 - First combat mission nerves and the value of Red Flag training

10:32 - Malcolm Gladwell, the air house, and servant leadership

12:01 - Why character and competence are both nonnegotiable

14:04 - Why he still looks up: air power, space power, and obsession

15:19 - Milosevic, the U-2, the B-2, and credible military options

17:43 - How to tell when a bold idea is really the future

18:42 - Team building across the interagency and Chairman Caine

19:57 - Bomber Mafia’s core tension and the AI autonomy debate

23:51 - Precision then and now, from Vietnam to Desert Storm to the B-2

26:50 - Deterrence and the goal of making adversaries say “not today”

28:26 - Finding common ground in space despite tension on Earth

31:06 - What “making time count” means to Goldfein

33:09 - Why open disagreement makes better leaders

36:13 - K Wright, Manny, Jumper, CQ Brown, and Malcolm Gladwell

39:49 - What is more dangerous: SA-3s, rose bushes, Serbia, or the HOA?

40:58 - Flying combat from home in Aviano and the spouse support network

44:22 - Why he would not want a billboard of himself

45:24 - The movie pitch, Danny DeVito, and twin sons of different mothers

46:51 - What Goldfein wants young people to know about military service

49:23 - Why he is proud to be number two behind General Jumper

50:11 - “You get to make lemonade” and closing thoughts

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Episode Quotes:

“We make progress unhindered by custom.”  (Quote to open episode)

“The American people deserve a balance of both competence and character.”

“We want potential adversaries to wake up every morning, look around them and say two words. Not today.”

“Servant leadership is about the gift that is given to you as a leader by those you’re privileged to serve.”

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People and Names mentioned in the episode:

General John P. Jumper 

Kaleth Wright

Manny Piñeiro

Seve Wilson

Jimmy Kelly

General CQ Brown

General Raymond

General Hyten

General Caine

Malcolm Gladwell

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Resources:

USO Website: https://www.uso.org/ 

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Podcast Summary:

The episode features Dave Goldfein, a 1983 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and the 21st Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force. With a 37-year career, over 4,200 flying hours, and combat missions in major operations, Goldfein shares insights from his military service, leadership journey, and ongoing contributions since retirement.

Key Topics & Highlights

⬛ Personal Background & Military Ties

• The episode opens with stories connecting military leaders across generations, touching on Dave Goldfein's father and General Jumper, and family ties with other officers 02:08.
• Dave Goldfein recounts a memorable experience of being rescued after his F-16 was shot down over Serbia, and lighter anecdotes about zero-turn lawnmowers and the trials of retirement 03:32.

⬛ Servant Leadership & Mentorship

• Dave Goldfein emphasizes the crucial role of chiefs and senior NCOs in shaping officers and highlights servant leadership as a lifelong journey that balances competence and character 10:23.
• He shares that servant leadership is defined by earning and re-earning the trust of those you lead every day 41:09.

⬛ Insights from Combat and Training

• Dave Goldfein reflects on his first combat mission, the power of rigorous training (notably Red Flag exercises), and how each generation must prepare the next for the realities of war 07:25.

⬛ Bomber Mafia & Technology

• Drawing from Malcolm Gladwell’s "Bomber Mafia," Dave Goldfein discusses the evolution of precision in military air power, moving from widespread destruction to pinpoint strikes, and the moral implications of artificial intelligence and autonomous warfare 22:09.
• He reiterates that technological advancement should serve clear diplomatic and political goals, not just military objectives 15:58.

⬛ Deterrence, Diplomacy, and Dialogue

• The importance of deterrence in modern warfare is stressed, with air and space power playing central roles in preventing conflict 25:22.
• Dave Goldfein reflects on U.S.-Russian cooperation on the International Space Station as a model for maintaining dialogue and common interests even amidst high tension 26:29.
• He muses about potential future areas, like AI, where U.S. and China might agree on strategic guardrails for global safety 27:50.

⬛ Legacy, Making Time Count & Life after Service

• Dave Goldfein speaks passionately about making a difference for future generations, with a personal focus on his grandchildren 29:29.
• He shares practical anecdotes from his post-retirement life, involvement in the USO, and continued commitment to supporting military families and organizations 35:21.

⬛ Fun & Lighthearted Moments

• The episode features playful segments like the Name Game, candid discussions about HOA “combat,” and hypothetical movie pitches for Dave Goldfein's life story — with a nod to Danny DeVito playing him 42:35.

⬛ Final Messages

• Dave Goldfein encourages young people to consider military service, highlighting the core values, work ethic, and loyalty garnered in the armed forces 44:34.
• He expresses gratitude for the opportunity to support and mentor the next generation, both in and out of uniform 43:39.

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

------------

© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Life rarely follows the path we expect. The question is what we do when it doesn't.

Doug Collins is the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, a former congressman, Air Force Reserve chaplain, attorney, and someone whose career has taken more than a few unexpected turns.

In this live conversation, we explore the experiences that shaped his approach to leadership, what he's learned from the wrong turns, why listening matters more than having all the answers, and what it takes to lead inside one of the largest organizations in the federal government.

We also discuss the future of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the responsibility of serving those who served, and why some of life's most important lessons come from places we never planned to go.

Life is not a straight line. Sometimes the detours are where the real story begins.

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Podcast Chapters:

00:00 Intro

02:09 Why Life is Great Right Now

03:04 Comparing Congress to Professional Wrestling, Working with Hakeem Jeffries, and what their WWE Tag Team Name Would Be

04:39 Impression of Former President Bill Clinton

05:03 What 18-year-old Doug Collins would be most surprised to learn about the life he ended up living

07:42 President Trump's mandate to "Take Care of Veterans" and the hardest part of that sentence to execute

15:28 Reversing Course on a VA Policy after hearing from Veterans and what Doug Collins has to model personally for the VA to become what he wants it to be

21:34 If Doug Collins were moderating a 2028 presidential debate and could ask both major-party candidates one question about America's veterans

23:20 What being a Chaplain, Congressman, and VA Secretary has taught him about listening

26:40 Secretary Collins Secret Weapon

29:25 On the noise that follows loss and how he found drawn to quiet. Also, when the noise in life gets loud today, where he goes to find that quiet?

32:42 What would need to happen for Secretary Collins to look back in 10 years and think these 10 years have been a success

33:58 On how should the VA reach veterans who may go to podcasts, YouTube, or Instagram before they ever go to VA.gov

37:42 Billboard Message for the world to see

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Episode Quotes:

"Motion causes friction."

"With great privilege comes even more responsibility."

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People and Names mentioned in the episode:

Hakeem Jeffries

Former President Bill Clinton

Ryan Manion

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Resources:

VA.Gov website: https://www.va.gov/ 

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Podcast Summary:

This episode features a town hall-style conversation with the Honorable Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, moderated by Martin Foster at the Military Influencer Conference. The discussion blends personal reflections, leadership philosophy, and pressing issues in veteran care, offering a candid look at the role and challenges of leading the VA.

Key Topics & Highlights

⬛ Personal Journey and Leadership

• Doug Collins shares personal anecdotes, from his North Georgia upbringing to his experiences as a pastor, lawyer, congressman, and now VA Secretary, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and learning from "wrong turns" in life 05:26.
• He credits his daughter Jordan, who has spina bifida, as a profound influence on his attitude and approach to life and service 27:00.
• Collins underscores "bloom where you're planted" and taking responsibility as central leadership messages, advocating for giving your best in every situation 38:09.

⬛ The VA’s Mission and Challenges

• Asked about his mandate to “take care of veterans,” Doug Collins outlines the struggle to shift a “bureaucracy under siege” towards a veteran-first culture, moving beyond following outdated processes to actively solving problems 07:56.
• He highlights major organizational reforms, including increased community care options, and the importance of measuring success by outcomes for veterans, not just by budget or size 10:46.

⬛ Listening, Influence, and Adaptability

• Recounting his multiple roles, Doug Collins emphasizes the art of listening and understanding "every story has an alternate story," valuing informed perspectives over one-sided narratives 25:05.
• He cautions content creators and influencers about their responsibility in shaping veteran perceptions, urging them to verify information before sharing to avoid perpetuating negative or incorrect narratives 35:17.

⬛ Addressing Perception and Outreach

• Doug Collins acknowledges that negative perceptions about the VA can prevent veterans from seeking care and stresses the need for open, honest communication, and rapid response to issues 17:00.
• He encourages influencers to understand their power and responsibility in the ecosystem where veterans increasingly turn to non-traditional sources for information before official channels 34:31.
• The VA is proactively engaging with new media and podcasters to improve outreach and transparency 36:29.

⬛ Reflection and Vision for Success

• Success, according to Doug Collins, means the VA continues to put veterans first, fosters a proactive and professional workforce, and is led by people willing to "take the arrows" so front-line staff can do their jobs 32:49.
• He aspires for a VA where leaders and staff aren’t second-guessed, and veterans’ needs are prioritized in all decisions 33:31.

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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BEST OF PTT FROM JULY 2018

One of the many advantages of social media is that it connects the world.  However, in a world where everyone is accessible, why are people so isolated and afraid to talk?

Communication and Human Nature Expert, Award-winning journalist, and Author

Celeste Headlee is an award-winning journalist, professional speaker and author of Heard Mentality and We Need To Talk: How To Have Conversations That Matter. In her 20-year career in public radio, she has been the Executive Producer of On Second Thought at Georgia Public Radio and anchored programs including Tell Me More, Talk of the Nation, All Things Considered, and Weekend Edition.  She also served as co-host of the national morning news show, The Takeaway, from PRI and WNYC, and anchored presidential coverage in 2012 for PBS World Channel.  Celeste’s TEDx Talk sharing 10 ways to have a better conversation has over 15 million total views to date.  

As an NPR host and journalist, Celeste has interviewed hundreds of people from all walks of life.  Through her work, she has learned the true power of conversation and its ability to both bridge gaps or deepen wounds.  In a time when conversations are often minimized to a few words in a text message and lack of meaningful communication and dialogue abounds, Celeste sheds a much-needed light on the lost and essential art of conversation.  Celeste is an expert in human nature, reclaiming common humanity and finding well-being and frequently provides insight and commentary on what is good for all humans and what is bad for us, focusing the best research in neuro and social science to increase understanding of how we relate with one another and can work together in beneficial ways in our workplaces, neighborhoods, communities and homes.  As a mixed race journalist of black and Jewish descent, Celeste also speaks candidly about how to converse on race and other difficult subjects. 

Celeste serves as an advisory board member for Procon.org and is an official spokeswoman for Plenty of Fish.  Her work and insights have been featured on TODAY, Psychology Today, Inc., NPR, Time, Essence, Elle, BuzzFeed, Salon, Parade, and many more.  She lives in Washington, D.C. 

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Timestamps:

00:00 Celeste Headlee's career highlights

03:42 Improving conversational skills

07:28 Starting Conversations at TED Summit

11:16 Impact of phones on socializing

14:41 Discussing societal trends and future outlook

16:48 Engaging short attention spans

21:11 Importance of communication skills

22:31 Adapting leadership to employee needs

27:22 Handling workplace communication issues

29:24 Global divisions and tribalism

35:05 Book recommendations on human behavior

36:38 Cell phone presence effects

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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She Lost Her Husband. Then She Had To Decide What To Do With His Dream.

What happens when the future you planned disappears — and you're left carrying a dream that was never originally yours?

Krista Hollingsworth is the owner of Freedom Whiskey Company, a business founded by her late husband, Marine veteran Zach Hollingsworth. After Zach's death in 2021, Krista found herself navigating grief, motherhood, uncertainty, and an unexpected decision: whether to let his dream end or find a way to carry it forward.

In this conversation, we talk about the difference between inheriting a company and inheriting someone's dream, learning to trust yourself instead of constantly asking what someone else would have done, and why moving forward doesn't mean leaving the people we've lost behind.

We also discuss the uncomfortable reality of suicide loss, what people get wrong about supporting someone who is grieving, recognizing when someone you love is struggling, and how tragedy can unexpectedly create connection, community, and purpose.

But this isn't simply a conversation about loss.

It's about what we choose to build from what remains.

And somehow, we also find time for Justin Timberlake, whiskey, Dayton restaurants, and the billboard Krista would love to see someday.

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Episode Timestamps:

00:00 — Carrying Forward a Dream After Tragedy

02:10 — Why Life Is Great Right Now

07:14 — Inheriting a Company vs. Inheriting Someone’s Dream

09:14 — When Your Spouse’s Dream Becomes Your Mission

11:15 — Stop Asking “What Would Zach Do?”

13:14 — Letting Go of Self-Doubt & Learning to Trust Yourself

14:40 — When Freedom Whiskey Became Bigger Than the Bottle

16:23 — Turning Whiskey Into $300,000 of Impact for Veterans

16:39 — The Unexpected Community Built Through Loss

19:26 — The Biggest Misconception About Suicide Loss

22:03 — Why We Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Talk About Grief

23:00 — What Grieving People Actually Need From Others

24:55 — What to Do When Someone You Love Seems Different

26:09 — Supporting Someone Who Is Struggling

27:53 — The Conversation Takes a Lighter Turn

28:06 — Describing Justin Timberlake as a Whiskey

29:19 — Who Is Krista Outside of Freedom Whiskey?

32:42 — Krista’s Favorite Dayton Restaurants

37:07 — The Dream Freedom Whiskey Billboard

40:00 — What Krista Wants Her Son to Remember

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Krista and Freedom Whiskey Links:

Website: https://haveashotoffreedom.com/ 

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

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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Jon Macaskill is a former Navy SEAL Commander turned mindfulness and meditation teacher. He’s a Naval Academy graduate and has his masters in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School. Jon has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, off the coast of Somalia, and in Panama. Jon brings mindfulness and meditation to high-performing teams to aid in dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression all while increasing focus, creativity, and productivity. 

Since ending his 24-year military career in June 2020, Jon is now dedicated to spreading the practices of meditation and mindfulness to help others live happier and more fulfilling lives. One of the way he accomplishes is through a podcast he co-hosts titled “Men Talking Mindfulness”.

SHOW NOTES:

• Intro
• Story behind the Chemistry Table Shirt
• Getting Started with Men Talking Mindfulness AND what happens when you get a retired Navy SEAL commander and a hippie meditation teacher together to talk about mindfulness
• How did Mindfulness enter Jon’s life, thoughts on the phrase Toxic Masculinity and the misuse of the term
• If mindfulness and meditation came into Jon’s life earlier in his career, how differently it would have shaped him. Also, how fatherhood changed his mentality
• Through all the trials and tribulations over the years, what Jon has learned about fear and anxiety
• Tips for people that do not feel focused and are overwhelmed
• Thoughts and beliefs Jon has changed his mind on over the years
• When depicting an image of leadership, who or what comes to mind
• Having compassion and helping you win as a leader
• Vulnerability being more accepted as a strength
• Who would play Jon in a movie and the celebrity he gets mistaken for
• Jon's Billboard Leadership message
• Funny story about The Rock

More info about the guest:
Connect with Jon on his LinkedIn
Email:  [email protected]
Website: https://macaskillconsulting.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulfrogman/

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Cody Keenan is a bestselling author and one of the most accomplished political speechwriters of his generation. He spent 14 years working with Barack Obama, ultimately serving as the President’s chief speechwriter and helping craft some of the most consequential speeches of the Obama presidency.

But what does it actually take to find the right words when millions of people are listening?

In this conversation, Cody and I discuss the hidden craft of presidential speechwriting, what he learned working alongside Obama, why great communication starts with understanding people, and how storytelling can turn complicated ideas into something people actually feel.

We also explore leadership under pressure, the tension between optimism and cynicism, finding your own voice, the responsibility that comes with writing words for someone else, and why the stories we choose to tell matter.

This is a conversation about far more than politics. It’s about communication, leadership, storytelling, and the difficult work of believing that our words can still make a difference.

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Time Codes:

00:00 Cody's Notable Speeches and Appearances

05:10 Exclusive Interview Highlights

07:50 Oval Office Basement Stress Reflections

10:46 Legacy of War Silence

14:45 Meeting Presidents & Speechwriting Insights

15:41 Anonymity's Decline in Public Service

21:44 "Obama's Skill: Crafting Resonant Narratives"

23:53 Delayed Visit and Unifying Narratives

28:29 Envy of White House Advance Team

31:16 Visualizing Success Through Preparation

35:10 Moonshot Optimism

38:31 "Perseverance and Impactful Living"

39:11 "Milestone Gratitude Acknowledgment"

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Dave is a former navy SEAL and classically trained actor. He is currently Acting and modeling in NYC, LA and the Southeast.

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Podcast Chapters:

00:00 Importance of grit in life

05:40 Military service and personal growth

07:26 Authenticity and self-discovery in acting

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More about David Meadows

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3690667/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialdavidbmeadows/?hl=en

Website: http://www.davidbmeadows.com/

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Podcast Summary:

In this red carpet edition of Passing The Torch, host Martin Foster interviews Navy SEAL and actor David Meadows at the Military and Veteran Entertainment Awards held at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The conversation centers on David Meadows's role in the film "Hollywood Grit," which is nominated in multiple categories at the event, including Best Supporting Actor for himself.

Key Discussion Topics

• Teamwork and Recognition: David Meadows emphasizes his pride in the "Hollywood Grit" team, highlighting that the production involved over 220 people, including 70+ veterans, and expresses deep gratitude for the recognition from the MV Awards 00:46.
• The Meaning of Grit: Explaining what grit means personally, David Meadows connects it to perseverance through setbacks, adaptability, and continuous growth, noting that these qualities are vital in both military and entertainment fields 01:46.
• Authenticity and Respect: The discussion explores the challenges of earning respect in both the SEAL Teams and Hollywood. David Meadows identifies authenticity, honor, doing what you say, and treating others well as universal drivers of respect 02:43.
• Acting Challenges: Reflecting on the roles that pushed him most, David Meadows describes acting as a journey inward, finding and sharing authentic parts of oneself—even those that are vulnerable or unappealing. He shares that his "Hollywood Grit" character, Logan Cowboy, is a particularly close-to-home and demanding portrayal 03:25.
• Identity and Military Service: David Meadows credits his military service—particularly his time in Special Operations—with fostering personal growth, self-discovery, grit, and authenticity, lessons that prepared him to navigate Hollywood’s pressures 05:40.
• Staying Grounded: On avoiding getting labeled or losing oneself in either the military or entertainment industry, David Meadows stresses the importance of self-awareness, studying oneself, and striving to be an authentic first-rate version of oneself rather than a second-rate imitation of someone else 07:26.

The episode closes with mutual appreciation between the host and guest, reinforcing the importance of honoring veterans' contributions to both their country and the entertainment industry.

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

Send us Fan Mail

Waco Hoover is an entrepreneur and investor with over 20 years of experience in venture capital, M&A, entertainment, media and live events.

He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1997-2001 as an infantry Marine, combat water survival instructor and infantry scout. He served several deployments across Southeast Asia.

After separation from the military, Hoover graduated from New York University, cum laude and completed Harvard Business School executive education programs. He then became an entrepreneur and investor who now has over 18 years of experience in venture capital, M&A, entertainment, media and live events.

He is currently Chair of the Be The One initiative for the American Legion. He is also a co-owner of Veteran Entertainment Television, advisor to Founders Factory, a London based venture capital firm, Managing Partner at Xperiential Group, and serves on the board of Irreverent Warriors, a non-profit preventing veteran suicide. He has advised global brands including MGM Resorts, Informa, Vivendi, and Las Vegas Sands Corp. He was a co-founder and investor in businesses sold to Informa, Emerald, Endeavor Business Media and Onstream Media.

Hoover speaks at industry events including VenuesNow, PTTOW!, CEMA, The American Legion, Military Influencer Conference, SXSW, Pollstar, TSE 100, Society for Independent Show Organizers, National Sports Forum and XLIVE.

He lives in Southern California with his wife, son and two yellow labs, Tucker and Winnie. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing, diving, and mountaineering as often as possible. He is a member of The American Legion and recently hosted the Be the One Symposium at the 104th American Legion National Convention in Charlotte.

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Podcast Chapters:

00:00 The impact of VetTix events

06:52 Purpose-driven profitability and social impact

08:35 Importance of mission-based assessments

14:43 Landing an Internship in France

17:57 Addressing Veteran Suicide Rates

18:48 Launching MCON for military support

23:34 Building for Long-term Success

27:17 Reflecting on fatherhood and service

28:29 Reflecting on family and parenting

31:19 Discovering Stoicism and Key Books

35:36 Leadership advice and billboard location

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Quote to open episodes:

“Failure shows us the way – by showing us what isn’t the way.”

– Ryan Holiday from The Obstacle is the Way

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Mentioned in the episode:

Scott Huesing - Episode 127 appearance

Jason Galui - Episode 125 appearance

MCON

Vet Tix

IMPCT Group

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Waco's Resources:

Website: https://impctgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waco-hoover-3928a014/ 

MCON: https://mcon.live/

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Podcast Summary:

The conversation focused on the personal and professional journey of a United States Marine Corps veteran, now CEO and founder of IMPCT Group, and co-founder and partner of MCON. The episode explored key life transitions, organizational impact in the veteran community, and the importance of fostering meaningful connections.

Key Themes and Discussions

⬛ Family and Fatherhood

A key theme that emerged was the importance of family, particularly the joys and challenges of fatherhood. Experiences as a parent to two young boys were described as deeply fulfilling, emphasizing the value of being present for family and children’s formative years. The discussion explored how personal upbringing and a father’s military experience influenced approaches to parenting and personal growth 25:52–29:41.

⬛ Veteran Wellness and Social Connection

The discussion explored the results of a recent study conducted with Vet Tix, highlighting how event tickets for veterans (such as concerts or sports) are less about the event itself and more about fostering connections and a sense of belonging. Several points were raised, including the significant improvements measured: a 70% increase in wellness and 86% improvement in family bonds, demonstrating that social connection is a crucial driver of veteran wellness 02:52–04:21.

⬛ Purpose-Driven Impact and the Role of IMPCT Group

One concept discussed was the idea of “purpose-driven profitability” and how businesses can achieve both financial and social returns by embedding purpose into their core operations. The episode delved into how Impact Group works with organizations to create strategies that generate economic opportunities for the military community, aiming to unlock $1 billion in economic opportunity by 2035 06:52–08:34.

⬛ MCON: Creating Community and Celebrating Military Service

The conversation detailed the creation and growth of MCON, a large-scale event designed to celebrate military culture, facilitate healing, and combat isolation. The motivation for MCON stemmed from a perceived lack of large-scale, celebratory events within the military community similar to those in other industries. The festival’s goal is to both celebrate positive aspects of military service and provide resources and support for those in need 16:11–20:16.

⬛ Leadership and Personal Development Influences

The discussion explored the influence of books such as The Obstacle Is the Way and the Daily Dad newsletter by Ryan Holiday. These works informed perspectives on overcoming adversity, showing up for family, and the ongoing question of personal development: “Who are you becoming?” 25:24–33:13.

⬛ Community, Collaboration, and Legacy

Several points were raised regarding the need for greater collaboration and efficiency among organizations serving the veteran community, especially as funding becomes scarcer. The conversation closed with reflections on legacy, leadership advice (“take an interest in others”), and the ongoing goal to connect with other mission-driven leaders 36:33.

Overall, the episode offered both practical insights and reflections on leadership, family, the veteran experience, and the power of collective action to foster thriving, resilient communities.

Support the show

Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin

More Amazing Stories:

Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure

Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way 

Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel

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© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.