The Real Leadership Brief

What happens when a United States Marine decides pain and fatigue aren’t “just part of getting older”?

In this powerful episode of Spirits and Stories, host Donald Dunn sits down with Marine veteran and entrepreneur Lee Ettinger — a former Special Operations qualified service member who transitioned from the battlefield to business.

After years of pushing through injuries, inflammation, and energy crashes, Lee refused to accept the status quo. Instead, he spent nearly a decade researching natural compounds and scientific studies to develop what he calls the world’s first energized pain reliever — Power Plus Pain Aid.

This conversation goes beyond business.

It’s about:

• Reinventing yourself after the military

• Overcoming physical breakdown at fifty

• The science behind natural pain relief

• Why most energy drinks do more harm than good

• The brutal reality of manufacturing and distribution

• COVID’s impact on small businesses

• And what resilience really looks like after service

If you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, athlete, or someone fighting fatigue and chronic pain — this episode will hit home.

Watch now and discover how one Marine turned frustration into innovation.

Learn more about Power Plus:

DrinkPowerPlus.com

Links referenced in this episode:

1. drink powerplus.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Power plus
2. Jocko Willick
3. Conundrum

How do you successfully lead a remote team without losing connection, culture, or performance? In this episode of The Real Leadership Brief, Donald Dunn sits down with engineering leader Limor Bergman-Gross to break down practical leadership strategies that work in today’s remote and hybrid workforce.

From performance reviews and hiring for culture fit to giving constructive feedback using the SBI framework (Situation-Behavior-Impact), this conversation covers real-world tools leaders can apply immediately. They also explore how to ask better questions, reduce bias, manage remote employees effectively, and build high-performing teams without face-to-face interaction.

If you’re a manager, executive, transitioning veteran, or professional navigating leadership in a changing workforce, this episode will give you actionable insights to grow your influence and improve team performance.

Listen now to learn how intentional leadership drives results — even from a distance.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. CoreyDisson.com
2. barracksmedia.com

What stops high performers from reaching the next level?

In this powerful episode of The Real Leadership Brief, Donald Dunn sits down with serial entrepreneur, executive mentor, and author Robert White to unpack the real mental barriers that hold leaders back — and how to break through them.

Robert shares the deeply personal story behind his book Living an Extraordinary Life, including overcoming childhood trauma, three heart attacks before age twenty-three, crushing self-doubt, and the limiting belief that “I am not enough.” From building the largest training company in Asia to losing everything and rebuilding from scratch, his journey reveals what it truly takes to create success with purpose.

You’ll learn:

1. How the belief “I am not enough” silently sabotages careers and relationships
2. Why fear before performance is actually a competitive advantage
3. The three pillars of sustainable leadership: Purpose, Vision, and Values
4. How entrepreneurs can use failure as fuel instead of identity
5. Why veterans often struggle with identity after service — and how to rebuild it
6. The culture-building lesson behind a multi-million dollar trucking company
7. What separates reactive leaders from transformational ones

This conversation blends leadership psychology, entrepreneurship, personal growth, and veteran identity in a way that is practical, raw, and immediately applicable.

If you’re a business owner, executive, veteran, or leader trying to level up without losing yourself in the process, this episode will challenge you to rethink what drives your decisions — and what’s been quietly holding you back.

1. Robert White’s book: Living an Extraordinary Life
2. Free Eight Principles guide: ExtraordinaryPeople.com

For more conversations on leadership, identity, and building something meaningful after failure, explore more episodes from The Real Leadership Brief and discover additional shows across the Barracks Media Network at:

https://barracksmedia.com

Links referenced in this episode:

1. extraordinarypeople.com
2. ordinarypeople.com
3. amazon.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Scientology
2. Barracks Media Incorporated
3. Living an Extraordinary Life
4. CareerTrack
5. Mind Dynamics
6. Lifespring
7. Establishment EST
8. Landmark Education
9. John Denver

In this episode, we engage in a profound discourse with Chris Scherrian, an entrepreneur whose journey epitomizes resilience, reinvention, and unwavering determination. Chris shares invaluable insights garnered from his extensive experience in navigating the complexities of business ownership, including the emotionally fraught process of downsizing and the inherent challenges of leadership during turbulent times. He elucidates the often unseen sacrifices made by entrepreneurs in their efforts to sustain their teams, emphasizing the critical balance between financial viability and employee morale. Our conversation delves into the importance of fostering a positive organizational culture, where employees feel valued and empowered, thus enhancing overall performance and commitment. As we explore these themes, we aim to provide listeners with actionable lessons in leadership that resonate across various industries and professional landscapes. Resilience and tenacity characterize the extraordinary journey of Chris Scherrian, who has transformed his life and the lives of others through his entrepreneurial ventures. In this enlightening discussion, Chris shares his experiences of battling cancer, completing two Ironman triathlons, and navigating the tumultuous waters of starting and rebuilding businesses across various industries. As the founder of Bootstraps and Battle Scars and the creator of Founders Exchange, he offers invaluable insights into the gritty realities of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of unfiltered leadership lessons. This episode delves into the emotional and psychological toll of business challenges, including the arduous decisions of letting go of employees during tough times. Chris articulates the complexities of maintaining morale within a team while facing financial uncertainties, illustrating how these experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and approach to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs towards success. The dialogue further explores the dichotomy of leadership in corporate environments compared to military contexts. The insights provided by the speakers reveal the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing that effective leaders must blend empathy with a clear focus on organizational goals. The conversation touches on the necessity of maintaining a positive atmosphere while confronting harsh realities, and the pivotal role of communication in fostering a cohesive team culture. As the discussion unfolds, listeners are invited to reflect on their own leadership styles and consider how they can cultivate an environment that encourages growth, accountability, and resilience among their teams. Ultimately, this episode serves as a profound reminder that leadership is not merely about authority or position; it is about inspiring others through actions and decisions that reflect integrity and purpose. Chris's journey embodies the essence of perseverance and determination, offering a beacon of hope and guidance for those navigating their own entrepreneurial paths. Through candid anecdotes and practical advice, the episode imparts essential lessons on leadership, resilience, and the human experience in the pursuit of success.

Takeaways:

1. The episode features Chris Scherrian, an entrepreneur renowned for his resilience and grit in navigating business challenges.
2. Chris's journey includes surviving cancer and completing two Ironman competitions, showcasing his tenacity in both personal and professional realms.
3. The conversation emphasizes the emotional toll on leaders during difficult business decisions, particularly when laying off employees.
4. Leadership in challenging times requires a balance of compassion and practicality to maintain team morale and business viability.
5. Effective leaders must foster a culture of accountability and support, ensuring team members understand their contributions to overall success.
6. The importance of recognizing and appreciating employees' efforts is highlighted as a crucial aspect of effective leadership.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. bootstrapsandbattlescars.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Bootstraps and Battle Scars
2. Founders Exchange

Brad Lehman, a retired U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel and F-35 test pilot, joins The Real Leadership Brief to discuss how leaders make decisions under pressure. Drawing from his experience in high-stakes military environments and his transition into entrepreneurship, Brad shares what preparation, execution, and accountability really look like when mistakes have consequences.

The conversation explores how military leadership principles translate into business, why trust and responsibility matter more than authority, and how leaders adapt when moving from life-or-death decisions to the civilian world. We also discuss Brad’s work as the founder of SwingSesh, and what it means to lead by example while building systems that support performance, teamwork, and resilience.

1. Leadership under pressure depends on preparation and clarity, not authority.
2. Military and civilian leadership require different approaches, but the same accountability.
3. High-stakes decision-making leaves no room for ego or indecision.
4. Transitioning from military to civilian leadership requires adaptation, not reinvention.
5. Strong leaders know when to lead and when to rely on others’ expertise.
6. Building effective systems matters more than individual heroics.

1. https://swingsesh.com
2. https://teamswingsesh.com

Company mentioned: SwingSesh

This episode of Spirits and Stories with Donald Dunn explores the often-unspoken realities of military service and the transition to civilian life through the story of Paul, a veteran who joined the military for practical reasons rather than idealism. He reflects on the motivations that led him to enlist, the financial decisions many young service members face, and the lessons learned through experience, mistakes, and growth.

Through candid and often humorous stories, the conversation examines how military life shapes identity, accountability, and resilience—and how those traits carry over into life after the uniform comes off. The episode also touches on the challenges of adapting to civilian roles, the pressure to appear successful despite personal struggles, and the different paths veterans take as they rebuild purpose and direction, including entrepreneurship.

At its core, this episode is about identity, adaptation, and the human side of life after service.

Takeaways

Many service members enlist for practical or financial reasons rather than patriotism alone.

Young soldiers often struggle with financial responsibility early in their careers.

Military service builds accountability and leadership, but those skills must be adapted for civilian life.

Transitioning out of the military can be challenging and disorienting.

Veterans often find new purpose by applying their experience to business, creativity, or entrepreneurship.

Links

nashvilleadventures.com

Companies mentioned

Singular

Amazon

Nashville Adventures

In this episode of The Real Leadership Brief, we explore what leadership really means beyond the title on your door. Joe Wyrwas joins the conversation to unpack leadership as responsibility—how decisions, ownership, and accountability define real leadership far more than position or authority.

Drawing from his experience developing leadership programs, leading teams, and overseeing high-stakes technology projects tied to national security, Joe shares how effective leadership depends on adaptability, trust, and understanding the human side of teams. We discuss how leaders grow by taking ownership, making decisions with real consequences, and building cultures where people feel supported and motivated to perform.

This conversation examines leadership across industries, focusing on responsibility, relationships, and the practical realities leaders face when outcomes truly matter.

Takeaways

Leadership is defined by responsibility, not titles or authority.

Strong leaders surround themselves with capable, motivated people and trust them.

Early leadership experiences shape how leaders make decisions later in life.

Understanding the human realities of team members strengthens leadership effectiveness.

Growth requires ownership, adaptability, and accountability.

Healthy company culture is built through trust, support, and collaboration.

Links

wyserwithjoe.com

linkedin.com

Companies mentioned

Booz Allen Hamilton

Anthem Engineering

The discourse presented in this podcast episode elucidates the profound interconnection between spirituality and leadership, fundamentally positing that true leadership is forged through adversity and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. The esteemed guest, Ryan Reichardt, embodies the resilience requisite for effective leadership, having traversed nearly five decades of trials, including personal setbacks, addiction, and the quest for purpose. His narrative serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, illustrating that the journey through suffering can yield profound healing and remarkable growth. Through his experiences, we are reminded that leadership is not merely about authority but rather the capacity to inspire and uplift others, particularly those grappling with their struggles. As we delve into this rich dialogue, we are invited to reflect on what it means to lead with authenticity, grounded in spiritual awareness and a commitment to serving others. The conversation delves into the profound interplay between spirituality and leadership, as exemplified by Ryan Reichardt's remarkable journey of resilience and personal growth. Reichardt's narrative is underscored by a steadfast belief that adversity serves not as an end, but rather as a catalyst for transformation and healing. From his humble beginnings in a minuscule town in North Dakota, where he grappled with feelings of isolation and difference, to his pivotal decisions that led him to military service and subsequent recovery from addiction, Reichardt's story is a testament to the power of perseverance. The episode highlights the importance of finding one's purpose through trials and tribulations, elucidating that true leadership is born from the willingness to confront and overcome life's challenges. The discussion encourages listeners to recognize their own potential for growth, urging them to embrace their unique narratives as integral to their leadership journey. Through this lens, the episode invites reflection on how spirituality can inform and enhance one's approach to leadership, creating a framework for understanding and nurturing others in their own struggles.

Takeaways:

1. In the realm of leadership, it is paramount to embrace vulnerability and surrender control to foster authentic connections and growth.
2. The journey of overcoming adversity often reveals one's true purpose, ultimately guiding them towards a path of service to others.
3. Reflecting on past experiences, especially the adversities faced, can illuminate the strength and resilience inherent within oneself.
4. True leadership is characterized by a willingness to listen and understand the unique narratives of those we aim to lead and support.
5. Engaging in continuous personal development and self-reflection is essential for effective leadership and personal fulfillment throughout life's challenges.
6. Finding one's purpose often requires navigating through pain and loss, leading to profound healing and growth that can inspire others.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. ourprotectordevelopment.com
2. ryantreichert.com

This podcast episode delves into the intricate narratives of military service, emphasizing the profound impact that such experiences have on personal growth and career trajectories. Our guests, both veterans, share their unique journeys into the military, recounting how motivations often stemmed from a desire for direction and purpose amidst life's challenges. The discussion further explores the evolution of military medicine and the vital role it plays in contemporary healthcare, particularly in response to modern threats. Noteworthy anecdotes reveal the camaraderie and resilience found within military life, illustrating that the bonds formed in service extend far beyond the battlefield. Through this dialogue, we aim to illuminate the multifaceted lives of veterans, challenging the perception that their stories are solely defined by combat, while also encouraging a greater understanding of their contributions to society. The dialogue between Speakers A and B unfolds in a candid and engaging manner, revealing their personal experiences and reflections on military life, notably their journeys before and after service. Speaker B, a Navy veteran, reminisces about his motivations for joining the military, shaped by a familial legacy of service and a desire for direction in life. The conversation highlights the transformative power of military service, as both speakers recount the impact of their experiences, particularly in the context of camaraderie and personal growth. They reflect on the complexities of transitioning to civilian life, discussing the challenges faced and the skills acquired during their service, which continue to resonate in their current endeavors. The episode encapsulates the essence of veteran narratives, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories that reflect both the trials and triumphs of military life, and the bonds formed through shared experiences. As the discussion progresses, a notable theme emerges regarding the evolution of medical practices within the military, with Speaker B detailing his journey into the medical field post-service. His experiences as a corpsman, coupled with subsequent advancements in emergency medicine, underscore a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. This perspective is particularly relevant given the rapid advancements in medical technology and practices, both in the military and civilian sectors. The exchange serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience required in the face of adversity and the ongoing quest for knowledge and growth, particularly in the context of healthcare. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the notion that the lessons learned in service extend far beyond the battlefield, shaping a lifetime of experiences and contributions to society. Concluding with reflections on the significance of storytelling, the speakers emphasize the cathartic nature of writing and the importance of sharing personal narratives. Speaker B’s journey into writing, spurred by his military experiences, illustrates the therapeutic power of expressing one’s thoughts and emotions through the written word. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their stories, regardless of the medium, highlighting the healing potential inherent in sharing one’s truth. The episode encapsulates a broader message about the necessity of community and connections forged through shared experiences, advocating for a culture of openness and understanding, particularly among veterans. As the speakers navigate their pasts and present, they illuminate the path forward, encouraging others to reflect on their journeys and the narratives that define them.

Takeaways:

1. The speakers reflect on their military backgrounds and the personal motivations for joining the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of direction and purpose in life.
2. They discuss how their experiences in the military shaped their careers and personal lives, illustrating the transformative power of service and camaraderie.
3. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life, particularly in terms of maintaining relevant skills and adapting to new environments.
4. The speakers underscore the significance of storytelling and writing as a therapeutic outlet for veterans, allowing them to process their experiences and share their narratives with others.
5. They note the importance of building relationships within the military community, which often leads to career opportunities and support in civilian life.
6. The discussion touches on the evolving nature of medicine and emergency response, particularly how military experiences have influenced advancements in these fields.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. johnnygilpin.com

Mentioned in this episode:

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