By Zack A. Knight
5
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The podcast currently has 457 episodes available.
Guest: Tessa Arnold, Co-founder of Snapback Energy
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *The Tactical Leader Podcast*, host Zack Knight dives into an inspiring conversation with Tessa Arnold, the co-founder of Snapback Energy. Tessa shares the journey of creating Snapback Energy as a lasting legacy with her late husband, Army combat veteran Michael Arnold, and how they designed their company to provide veterans with clean, effective energy products. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, finding purpose, and navigating unexpected shifts in life and business.
Episode Highlights:
- Mindset of Resilience: Tessa explains the importance of keeping a “kid at heart” mindset and how this playful approach to life has helped her remain adaptive and resilient, especially through challenging times.
- Career Adaptability: From corporate roles to entrepreneurship, Tessa reveals her journey of pivoting careers and embracing change, and how these experiences prepared her for the unexpected.
- Snapback Energy’s Mission: Learn how Tessa and her late husband envisioned Snapback Energy as a purpose-driven business for veterans and active-duty military personnel, focusing on providing a clean, effective, and sustainable energy solution.
- Honoring a Legacy: Tessa discusses building Snapback Energy as a tribute to her husband’s legacy and their mutual commitment to creating something lasting for the veteran community.
Tune In To Learn:
- The challenges and triumphs Tessa faced in growing Snapback Energy.
- The mindset shifts necessary for transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship.
- The impact of building a purpose-driven business and honoring a loved one’s legacy.
Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking inspiration on overcoming life’s hurdles, Tessa’s story is sure to resonate. Don’t miss this episode of *The Tactical Leader Podcast*!
Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and follow @TacticalLeaderPodcast for more inspiring stories of leadership and resilience.
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Connect with Tessa Arnold
[Website: Snapback Energy](https://snapbackenergy.com)
Instagram: [@snapbackenergy](https://instagram.com/snapbackenergy)
In a compelling episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with Jeff Barnes, CEO of Angel Investors Network, to delve into the intricacies of leadership, entrepreneurship, and the ever-challenging world of raising capital. Both military veterans, Zack and Jeff weave personal stories of resilience and lessons learned through hardship into the broader themes of navigating life after the military, building businesses, and helping others unlock financial autonomy.
Overcoming Early Challenges: A Foundation for Grit
Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in adversity. He recalls a tumultuous childhood, where his family fell into homelessness after a failed business partnership. They lived in an old RV, bouncing between California and Colorado, barely scraping by. This early experience, though harrowing, instilled in Jeff an unshakable sense of grit and determination, qualities that would shape his future entrepreneurial success.
Rather than becoming risk-averse from these hardships, Jeff embraced the spirit of entrepreneurship. Watching his father toil as a small business owner taught him valuable lessons in hard work, even if scaling the business remained out of reach for his father. “My dad worked in fancy restaurants and mansions in Aspen doing hardwood floors, but he never grew the business,” Jeff reflects, noting that while his father’s work ethic was inspiring, it also showed him what not to do in business.
From Military to Entrepreneurial Success
Transitioning from military life to the civilian world wasn’t easy for Jeff, a challenge many veterans face. “When you’re in the military, you feel like you’re making an impact. Once you're out, it’s hard to replicate that,” Zack Knight adds. Jeff’s early attempts at finding a foothold after the military included ventures in financial planning, real estate, and corporate leadership. Despite his success in various sectors, Jeff struggled with the rigid structures and authority-driven culture of corporate life.
This disdain for authority pushed Jeff and his wife to build a chiropractic and functional medicine practice. With determination and smart marketing strategies, they grew it into a seven-figure business within months. “Within 90 days, we had a full schedule. That’s when I realized I had the tools to succeed on my own,” Jeff shares. The experience taught him not just how to run a business but how to scale it effectively—a critical skill he now helps other entrepreneurs master.
Angel Investors Network: Creating a Legacy Through Capital
As the CEO of Angel Investors Network, Jeff now helps entrepreneurs raise capital and scale their businesses. His early experiences with financial instability drive his mission to democratize access to capital. “I’ve tried so many things in my life. Now, with Angel Investors Network, I’m helping others find that same freedom,” Jeff explains. Through his organization, he works to build platforms where companies can raise capital and grow, creating what he calls “Torrential Downpour Economics”—the idea that successful companies spawn entire ecosystems of opportunity and job creation.
Zack, reflecting on Jeff's work, recalls attending one of his Nashville events, a space where entrepreneurs can connect with potential investors. With future events planned in Las Vegas and Tampa, the goal is to keep expanding the network and help more business owners secure the funding they need to scale.
Key Lessons for Entrepreneurs: Grit, Clarity, and Leadership
Throughout their conversation, Zack and Jeff emphasize three critical elements for entrepreneurial success:
1. Grit is Essential: Jeff’s rise from homelessness to CEO highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges.
2. Clarity of Vision: Jeff advises entrepreneurs to be crystal clear about their business vision and capital-raising goals. Investors won’t engage if they don’t understand your mission.
3. Leadership Through Action: Both Zack and Jeff stress that leadership isn’t just a title; it’s a role earned through experience and results. In both the military and corporate worlds, Jeff led by doing the work and leading by example.
Jeff also offers three tactical steps to secure capital:
1. Clarity: Clearly define your business goals and capital requirements.
2. Presentation: Hone your pitch and refine your presentation for potential investors.
3. Practice: Constantly practice your pitch, seeking feedback and refining your messaging until you’re ready for investors.
These takeaways are not just theoretical—they are actionable insights that Jeff has used to scale multiple businesses and now teaches others to do the same.
Building a Legacy of Autonomy
One of the most powerful takeaways from the episode is Jeff’s commitment to building a legacy of financial freedom and autonomy. Having lived through the consequences of financial instability, Jeff now seeks to provide others with the tools they need to succeed. Whether it’s through Angel Investors Network or his broader entrepreneurial ecosystem, his goal is to democratize capital and empower more people to create wealth on their own terms.
For veterans, entrepreneurs, or anyone seeking to build a lasting impact, Zack and Jeff’s conversation serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for navigating the road to success. Their discussion offers a blueprint for overcoming personal and professional obstacles, using leadership and resilience as the foundation for entrepreneurial growth.
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Take Action: If you're a veteran or an entrepreneur looking for capital or mentorship, check out the Angel Investors Network (https://angelinvestorsnetwork.com) for upcoming events and resources. You can also visit ATLVets.org (https://www.atlvets.org) for veteran-focused professional development opportunities. Tune into *The Tactical Leader Podcast* for more insights from leaders like Jeff Barnes who are shaping the future of entrepreneurship and leadership.
On the latest episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, Jack Carr, former Navy SEAL, best-selling author, and host of the Danger Close podcast, shared his incredible journey from military service to becoming a top-tier author in the world of thrillers. Carr’s reflections highlight the value of building upon a foundation established by previous generations of authors while adapting to today’s constantly evolving media landscape.
Jack Carr is a former Navy SEAL who served for 20 years, transitioning from military operations to becoming a successful author and podcast host. His military experience, particularly in tactical operations and leadership, deeply informs his writing, lending authenticity to his thrillers. Carr’s time in the Navy SEALs laid the foundation for his post-service career, where he draws on his battlefield experiences to create compelling, action-packed stories. His journey from elite military service to top-tier author showcases his adaptability and commitment to excellence across different fields.
Building on the Legacy of Great Authors
Carr emphasized how crucial it has been for him to recognize and build upon the literary foundations laid by iconic thriller authors. "I’m not just regurgitating things—I’m building off the foundation that’s been built by all these other authors," he explained. He cited classic stories like *The Most Dangerous Game* and *Rogue Male* as significant inspirations, but it didn’t stop there. Carr outlined a timeline of influences, including legendary figures like Ian Fleming, John le Carré, Robert Ludlum, Tom Clancy, David Morrell, and Nelson DeMille.
Carr acknowledges that the works of these authors have allowed him to forge his own path. "These guys gave me this foundation by writing such amazing books, and I build on that," he said, adding that he’s taken lessons from the past and applied them to modern-day storytelling in a way that honors those who came before him.
The Importance of Adapting to the Battlefield of Media
One of Carr’s unique insights in the podcast was how the modern publishing environment requires authors to adapt to new challenges, much like a battlefield. "You couldn’t have done what I’m doing now back in 1985," he said, reflecting on how digital platforms, podcasts, and social media have revolutionized the way creators can engage with their audience.
In Carr’s early career, traditional book tours and limited media appearances were the main avenues for engaging with readers. Today, authors like Carr have an abundance of ways to connect with fans, express gratitude, and contribute value, whether through social media interactions or hosting podcasts. “You might just want to write the book, and that’s wonderful. But for me, I need to build a readership,” Carr shared, explaining his motivation to create content beyond just writing novels.
This approach is more than just business—it’s personal. Carr, who has a middle child with severe special needs, shared that the financial responsibility of caring for his family drives his efforts to engage with his audience consistently. "For me, thanking people, being authentic, and adapting to this new environment is just as important as writing the books."
From Page to Screen
A particularly exciting moment of the conversation came when Carr recounted the story of how his book The Terminal List was adapted into a major television series. As he was writing the book, Carr imagined Chris Pratt playing the lead role, even though Pratt was then known primarily for comedic work on *Parks and Recreation*. After Pratt’s transformation in Zero Dark Thirty, Carr saw him as the perfect actor to embody the main character.
It turns out that Carr’s intuition was spot on. Through a fortunate series of connections—thanks to a friend, Jared Shaw—Pratt ended up reading the book and called Carr in 2018 to option the story. Pratt would not only star in the series but also serve as a producer. Additionally, famed director Antoine Fuqua, known for films like Training Day and Shooter, became part of the project after another friend of Carr’s handed Fuqua a copy of the book.
Reflecting on this journey, Carr emphasized how taking the time to help someone, even in small ways, can lead to unexpected opportunities. "Never miss an opportunity to make someone’s day," he advised, sharing how he had once helped Shaw transition out of the military, which ultimately paved the way for their collaboration.
Navigating the Complexities of Social Media
While the digital era has opened new doors, Carr also highlighted some of its downsides. As an introvert by nature, he acknowledged the challenges of maintaining a social media presence, especially when faced with negative feedback. “People are unkind, generally,” he said, noting how even though 98% of his followers are supportive, it’s the negative voices that tend to stand out.
Carr’s solution is simple but profound: focus on the positive. "If you don’t like something, you don’t have to say anything about it. But if you like something, you can make somebody’s day by just saying that."
A Legacy of Authenticity
In wrapping up the conversation, Carr was asked about the legacy he wants to leave. He admitted that he doesn’t often think about it in those terms, but his actions speak for themselves. Carr’s career, from Navy SEAL to author and podcast host, is a testament to his dedication to building on the foundations laid by others, adapting to new environments, and consistently putting in the hard work to craft stories that resonate with his audience.
Through his writing, his podcast, and his interactions with fans, Jack Carr is leaving behind more than just best-selling novels—he’s building a legacy of authenticity, gratitude, and resilience.
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You can follow Jack Carr’s journey through his website and social media platforms. His latest non-fiction work, *Targeted*, releases on September 24th, 2024.*
In a recent episode of the Tactical Leader Podcast, Zack Knight had an engaging conversation with Jodi Burns, discussing the impact local organizations and veterans’ families have in creating strong communities. One of the key points was how smaller, less known initiatives can drive powerful change, even if their contributions are often underappreciated. This episode highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnerships in supporting veterans and their families.
Veterans and Their Families: The Unsung Heroes
One of the standout moments of the conversation was Jodi's recognition of the pivotal role families play in the lives of service members, particularly Special Operations Forces. As the wife of a Navy SEAL, she shared her perspective on the struggles families face, often handling the emotional and logistical burdens of long deployments. These families wear many hats and form the backbone of support for service members, yet their contributions are often overlooked.
Jodi and Zack both emphasized the importance of organizations that focus not just on the service members but also on their families. These organizations aim to alleviate the stress that comes with military life by creating supportive communities where families can lean on each other. This effort is crucial in ensuring the well-being of both the service members and those who hold the home front together.
Mental Health Support: Breaking the Stigma
A significant part of the discussion revolved around mental health and the importance of accessible, confidential support for veterans. Jodi shared her passion for a program called *Beyond the Battlefield*, which offers anonymous therapy sessions to service members dealing with trauma. This approach allows veterans to seek help without the fear of career repercussions, addressing the stigma that often surrounds mental health in the military.
Zack and Jodi talked about how mental health resources are essential but can be difficult to navigate within the traditional military structure. The anonymous aspect of this program provides a lifeline for veterans, encouraging them to take that first step toward healing.
Tailored Programs for Unique Needs
Throughout the conversation, the focus remained on the idea that every veteran's needs are different. Jodi mentioned how their programs are designed with flexibility in mind, giving veterans the chance to choose how they seek support. Whether it's through small group therapy sessions or one-on-one counseling, the goal is to provide options that best suit the individual.
The Beyond the Battlefield program’s success lies in its ability to offer not just therapy but a sense of camaraderie. Veterans often find comfort in opening up to those who have walked in their shoes, creating a space where they can feel understood and supported.
The Road Ahead
rapped up, both Zack and Jodi reflected on the importance of continuing to raise awareness about these issues. The need for mental health resources and family support is ongoing, and organizations like Special Forces Charitable Trust are stepping up to meet the demand. By forging partnerships with local and national organizations, they hope to expand their reach and help even more veterans and their families.
This episode of the The Tactical Leader Podcast serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from community. Veterans and their families are not just survivors of war; they are resilient, powerful members of society who deserve recognition and support.
If you'd like to learn more about the programs discussed or get involved, check out the Special Forces Charitable Trust and consider supporting initiatives that make a difference in the lives of those who have served.
What services does the U.S. government outsource, and how can your business - veteran-owned or not - capitalize on these often-overlooked opportunities?
In this conversation, your host Zack Knight, invites William Brown, a former JAG officer turned business attorney, to share the often-overlooked world of government contracting. From heart-wrenching stories of international cooperation to practical advice for small business owners, this conversation spans a wide range of topics relevant to both veterans and civilians. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the legal aspects of running a business, the untapped potential of government contracts, and the power of collaboration between veteran and civilian-owned enterprises.
[00:00 - 05:25] From Battlefield to Boardroom: A JAG Officer's Journey
[05:26 - 13:23] A Tale of Two Worlds: Saving Lives and Changing Laws
[13:24 - 22:16] Unlocking the Government Contracting Goldmine
[22:17 - 35:44] The Hidden Opportunities in Local Government Contracting
[35:45 - 44:28] Building Bridges: Veteran and Civilian Business Collaboration
Key Quotes:
"The government doesn't manufacture anything. They buy everything and they buy services." - William Brown
"Everything we're doing in the community is to bring in veterans and veteran supporters to everything we're doing." - Zack Knight
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.
How can military veterans successfully transition their leadership skills and experiences into thriving corporate careers?
In this speaker series conversation, host Zack Knight talks with Gabe Soltero, a former Navy pilot turned program manager for military hiring at Home Depot. Gabe shares his journey from a 25-year military career to the corporate world, offering valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing veterans in transition. The conversation delves into the importance of adapting communication styles, leveraging transferable skills, and the role of support networks in successful career transitions. Gabe also highlights Home Depot's commitment to veteran hiring and retention, shedding light on innovative programs and policies that support military families.
[00:00 - 05:44] From Navy Wings to Corporate Ladders: A Pilot's Journey
[05:45 - 14:32] Charting the Course: Career Path in Naval Aviation
[14:33 - 20:58] Landing in Atlanta: Navigating the Civilian World
[20:59 - 24:35] Home Depot's Veteran-Friendly Initiatives: More Than Just Hiring
[24:36 - 28:55] Mastering the Art of the Humble Brag: Veteran's Guide to Self-Promotion
[28:56 - 39:46] The Backbone of Service: Family Support in Military Transitions
Key quotes:
"When you transition, you need to start talking about the I. And veterans struggle with that." - Gabe Soltero
"Master the art of the humble brag.” Gabe Soltero
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.
How can a national organization like Tunnel to Towers effectively collaborate with local communities to combat veteran homelessness and provide sustainable support?
Zack Knight sits down with Lynda Cox, the VP for Development and Government Affairs at the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, they discuss the organization's mission to eradicate veteran homelessness and provide comprehensive support through their national case management network. Lynda shares the foundation's humble beginnings, inspired by the heroic actions of firefighter Stephen Siller on 9/11, and how it has grown to help veterans and first responders nationwide. She emphasizes the importance of collaborating with local service providers and understanding the unique needs of each community to address the root causes of homelessness effectively. Throughout the conversation, Zack and Lynda highlight the role of organizations like Tunnel to Towers and Advancing in Line in providing holistic support, from housing to workforce development and entrepreneurship opportunities.
[00:00 - 07:06] Advancing in Line's Mission and Growth
[07:07 - 13:26] The Beginnings of Tunnel to Towers
[13:27 - 20:10] Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: A Bold Mission
[20:11 - 31:12] The Power of the National Case Management Network
[31:13 - 37:22] Translating Military Experience to Civilian Success
Key Quotes:
"The very least we can do is make sure that you have dignity and security for the rest of your life." - Lynda Cox
"There's so much opportunity in this room to take action, to take the next step, to advance the line" - Zack Knight
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.
How can faith and resilience help transform personal tragedies into opportunities for growth and service to others?
In this Tactical Friday, host Zack Knight welcomes back Lindsey Graham, known as the Patriot Barbie, to discuss overcoming adversity and finding purpose through faith. Lindsey shares her journey of resilience, detailing how she navigated through dark times and rediscovered her identity. The conversation delves into the importance of prayer, understanding life's challenges as part of a greater plan, and using past experiences to serve others. Zack and Lindsey explore themes of trust in God, the value of relationships, and the power of conviction in one's beliefs. They also discuss the importance of aligning with like-minded individuals and using one's talents and experiences for a greater purpose.
[00:00 - 05:44] The Power of Faith in Adversity
[05:45 - 09:07] Finding Meaning in Life's Challenges
[09:08 - 11:16] The Ripple Effect of Our Actions
[11:17 - 12:09] Building Relationships and Standing Firm in Beliefs
[12:10 - 16:05] Serving a Greater Purpose
Key Quote:
"Everything in your life has played a purpose.” - Lindsey Graham
Connect with The Patriot Barbie:
Website: https://patriotbarbie.com/
Instagram: @the.patriot.barbie
Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?
LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!
If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.
What does it take to stand firm in your convictions when facing overwhelming opposition and personal loss?
In episode 449, host Zack Knight sits down with Lindsey Graham, known as the Patriot Barbie, to discuss her remarkable journey from a successful salon owner to a prominent conservative voice. Lindsey shares her experience of defying COVID-19 lockdowns, facing intense backlash, and ultimately reinventing herself. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and seizing unexpected opportunities in the face of adversity.
[00:00 - 13:35] From Salon Chair to Political Battleground
[13:36 - 18:59] Defying the Mob: Lindsey's Stand Against Threats and Backlash
[19:00 - 26:14] Losing Everything but Gaining Purpose
[26:15 - 30:14] Embracing a New Path and Purpose
[30:15 - 33:39] Crafting a Legacy: Authenticity and Bold Voice in Action
Key Quotes:
"You can seize the moment and seize the opportunity without knowing why." - Lindsey Graham
Connect with The Patriot Barbie:
Website: https://patriotbarbie.com/
Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?
LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!
If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.
How can incorporating voluntary adversity into your life help you build resilience and overcome challenges when real adversity strikes?
In this Tactical Friday, we continue sharing tactics with Kristofor Healy for self-mastery and leadership. Kristofor shares his insights on the importance of embracing adversity, maintaining consistency, and viewing life's challenges as opportunities for growth. He emphasizes the need to create voluntary hardships to build resilience and prepare for the inevitable obstacles that life throws our way. Throughout the conversation, Kristofor shares his 3 most important tactics to encounter adversity and build a strong mindset.
[00:00 - 05:08] Applying Tactical Strategies for Self-Mastery
[05:09 - 08:39] The Power of Consistency Over Time
[08:40 - 11:12] Life is Fire: Turning Adversity into Strength
Key quotes:
"Consistency over time leads to success." - Kristofor Healy
"You have a right to control your attitude, your efforts, your actions, your reactions." - Kristofor Healy
Connect with Kristofor:
Podcast: The Stoic Responder
Website: https://www.kristoforhealey.com/
Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?
LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.
The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!
If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.
The podcast currently has 457 episodes available.