The Tactical Leader

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

• William Brown's transition from 21-year military service to civilian law
• The importance of family legacy in military service
• How JAG officers impact military operations beyond legal matters

[05:26 - 13:23] A Tale of Two Worlds: Saving Lives and Changing Laws

• The story of saving an Afghan girl through international cooperation
• How legal expertise can be used to navigate complex international situations
• The power of quick decision-making in life-or-death scenarios

[13:24 - 22:16] Unlocking the Government Contracting Goldmine

• The basics of government contracting for veteran-owned businesses
• How civilian businesses can partner with veteran-owned companies
• The surprising range of services and products the government outsources

[22:17 - 35:44] The Hidden Opportunities in Local Government Contracting

• Exploring contracts at county and municipal levels
• How small businesses can tap into overlooked contract opportunities
• Real-world success stories of businesses thriving through government contracts

[35:45 - 44:28] Building Bridges: Veteran and Civilian Business Collaboration

• How veteran and civilian businesses can work together for mutual benefit
• The unique value proposition of veteran-owned businesses
• Strategies for networking and finding complementary business partners

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

• Gabe Soltero's 25-year Navy career and passion for flying
• The compelling recruitment pitch that led him to choose the Navy
• Transition from ROTC to flight training and living the dream

[05:45 - 14:32] Charting the Course: Career Path in Naval Aviation

• The rigid yet diverse career progression in the Navy
• Balancing technical skills with leadership responsibilities
• The importance of people and leadership in military retention

[14:33 - 20:58] Landing in Atlanta: Navigating the Civilian World

• The challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life at 47
• Exploring opportunities in Atlanta's corporate landscape
• Learning to translate military experiences for civilian audiences

[20:59 - 24:35] Home Depot's Veteran-Friendly Initiatives: More Than Just Hiring

• Gabe's journey to finding his place at Home Depot
• The company's impressive veteran hiring statistics and retention strategies
• Home Depot's approach to fostering career growth for veterans

[24:36 - 28:55] Mastering the Art of the Humble Brag: Veteran's Guide to Self-Promotion

• The importance of smiling and approachability in job searches
• Learning to speak in terms of "I" instead of "We"
• Tailoring military experiences to civilian job requirements

[28:56 - 39:46] The Backbone of Service: Family Support in Military Transitions

• The crucial role of spousal and family support during career transitions
• Involving family members in decision-making processes
• Balancing military service with family unity

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

• Update on Advancing in Line's recent initiatives, including the VetOps program for professional development
• Advancing in Line celebrates its one-year anniversary as an official 501(c)(3) organization
• Tunnel to Towers Introduction

[07:07 - 13:26] The Beginnings of Tunnel to Towers

• Tunnel to Towers was founded in memory of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life on 9/11
• The foundation initially focused on supporting widows and orphans created that day
• Tunnel to Towers expanded its mission to help injured veterans and first responders

[13:27 - 20:10] Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: A Bold Mission

• Tunnel to Towers declared its mission to eradicate veteran homelessness
• The foundation has helped over 4,000 veterans and their families come off the streets in the last two years
• Lynda emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and collaborating with local communities

[20:11 - 31:12] The Power of the National Case Management Network

• Tunnel to Towers' national case management network 
• The network consists of over a thousand service providers nationwide, addressing veterans' specific needs
• Lynda highlights the importance of not just providing housing, but also addressing the root causes of homelessness

[31:13 - 37:22] Translating Military Experience to Civilian Success

• Veterans often struggle to translate their military experience to the civilian world
• Zack and Lynda discuss the challenges of transitioning from the military to civilian life
• Tunnel to Towers aims to provide holistic support, including workforce development and self-actualization

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

• Prayer is crucial when facing tragedy or trauma.
• Trusting in a higher purpose can provide comfort and direction.
• Shifting from asking "why me?" to "show me why" can be transformative.

[05:45 - 09:07] Finding Meaning in Life's Challenges

• Every experience, good or bad, can serve a greater purpose.
• Writing down life experiences can reveal patterns and lessons.
• Personal struggles can become powerful tools for helping others.

[09:08 - 11:16] The Ripple Effect of Our Actions

• Our experiences prepare us for future challenges and opportunities.
• Seemingly negative events can lead to positive outcomes for others.
• Embracing one's story can inspire and help those facing similar struggles.

[11:17 - 12:09] Building Relationships and Standing Firm in Beliefs

• Forming relationships with like-minded individuals is crucial for success.
• Conviction in one's beliefs can be challenging but rewarding.
• Aligning with those who share your values is important in business and life.

[12:10 - 16:05] Serving a Greater Purpose

• Using talents and resources to serve others creates meaningful impact.
• Personal struggles can become the foundation for helping others.
• True fulfillment comes from serving a purpose beyond oneself.

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

• Lindsey's background as a non-political person
• How COVID-19 lockdowns threatened her livelihood and years of hard work
• The unexpected political spotlight that came from standing up for her business

[13:36 - 18:59] Defying the Mob: Lindsey's Stand Against Threats and Backlash

• Violent threats and community backlash faced for keeping her salon open
• Organizing protection for her business and others in Salem
• The personal and professional cost of her defiance

[19:00 - 26:14] Losing Everything but Gaining Purpose

• Lindsey's loss of business, home, and identity as a successful entrepreneur
• Finding strength in faith during the darkest moments
• Viewing losses as part of a greater plan for her life

[26:15 - 30:14] Embracing a New Path and Purpose

• How faith helped Lindsey see opportunity in her challenges
• The process of exploring new career paths
• Unexpected political connections opening doors to new opportunities

[30:15 - 33:39] Crafting a Legacy: Authenticity and Bold Voice in Action

• Lindsey's current multiple businesses and public speaking career
• Her aim to leave a legacy of authenticity and using her voice for truth
• Encouraging others to seize opportunities without knowing the end result

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

• The importance of having both a strategy and tactics to achieve goals
• Include voluntary adversity in your life to build resilience
• Maintain good habits, like making your bed, to set yourself up for success

[05:09 - 08:39] The Power of Consistency Over Time

• Consistency is key to achieving success
• Cultivate the value of patience, effort, and perseverance
• Focus on effort rather than success and keep your eyes on the long-term goal

[08:40 - 11:12] Life is Fire: Turning Adversity into Strength

• Why life is suffering and how can deal with it 
• Challenges can either burn you down or bring brightness to those around you
• Control your attitude, efforts, actions, and reactions to turn 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.

How does Shepherd Center support veteran care, break down barriers, and encourage veterans to seek treatment?

In episode 448, host Zack Knight sits down with Jackie Breitenstein, the head of the SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Jackie shares how Sheperd Center is working with veterans suffering from brain injuries and other hidden wounds of war. She shares the unique challenges veterans face when seeking care and how Shepherd Center and the SHARE program are working to break down those barriers. Jackie also highlights the importance of involving family members in the healing process and the long-term support SHARE provides to ensure veterans can successfully transition back to their communities.

[00:00 - 06:01] From Boxing Ring to Brain Injury Rehab: Jackie's Journey

• Jackie's past as a professional boxer with an 8-2 record and six knockouts
• How her boxing experience led her to work with brain injury patients at Shepherd Center
• Shepherd Center's world-renowned reputation in treating brain and spinal cord injuries

[06:02 - 12:25] SHARE Military Initiative: Comprehensive Care for Veterans

• SHARE program treats post-9/11 veterans and first responders
• Care provided at no out-of-pocket expense, including travel, housing, and specialist teams
• Zack's personal connection to Shepherd Center through his own experiences

[12:26 - 30:52] Breaking Barriers: Reaching to Veterans

• Challenges of marketing to veterans who don't want to be labeled as "damaged goods"
• SHARE's reliance on word-of-mouth referrals and building trust with veterans
• Importance of finding a new mission and purpose for veterans as they heal and transition

[30:53- 39:29] Link Between Brain Injuries and Veteran Suicide

• Statistics reveal the prevalence of brain injuries among veterans and increased suicide risk
• Addressing root causes of veteran suicide, including misdiagnosed and undertreated brain injuries
• Misconceptions surrounding ongoing conflicts and lack of public awareness about veteran challenges

[39:30 - 45:10] Healing Families, Restoring Connections: SHARE's Holistic Approach

• Involving family members in treatment, educating them on supporting their veteran loved one
• Powerful story of a veteran reconnecting with his daughters during treatment
• Importance of respite care for veteran caregivers supporting loved ones for years

Key Quotes:

"If all we do is talk to the veteran and we don't include their circle of support, we're not setting that veteran up or that family up for success." - Jackie Breitenstein

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 stoicism and learning from adversity help first responders and law enforcement officers build resilience in their personal and professional lives?

In episode 446, host Zack Knight interviews Kristofor Healey, a former DHS special agent, speaker, author, and podcast host. Kristofor shares his journey from aspiring archaeologist to federal law enforcement officer in the wake of 9/11, and how his experiences on the Southwest border and in investigating large-scale fraud cases shaped his perspective on resilience and stoicism. In this conversation, Kristofor also shares his passion for teaching and mentoring others, as well as his new book, "In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders," which aims to provide a practical guide for law enforcement officers to develop a resilient mindset. 

[00:00 - 08:26] The Journey to Law Enforcement

• Introduction to Kristofor Healey 
• Kristofor's post-9/11 desire to serve drove his career change
• Worked on complex federal investigations for 15 years
• Southwest border experiences shaped his views on resilience and stoicism

[08:27 - 14:35] Life on the Southwest Border

• Worked during Gulf cartel chaos and civil war
• Investigated corrupt law enforcement officers
• High-stakes work required tactical awareness and skilled targets

[14:36 - 17:32] Balancing Work and Relationships

• Experience in marriages while on duty 
• Advice to find points in common with your significant other 
• Success requires recognizing strengths, weaknesses, and following when necessary

[17:33 - 22:22] Developing a Stoic Mindset

• Discovered stoic philosophers during challenging times
• Stoicism focuses on controlling attitude, effort, actions, and reactions
• Stoicism helped navigate the transition from law enforcement to entrepreneurship

[22:23 - 27:32] Daily Practices and Balancing Life with a Significant Other

• Law enforcement authority can carry over into personal relationships
• Healthy relationships require recognizing limitations and following the partner's lead
• Checking authoritative communication patterns is an ongoing practice

[27:33 - 30:10] Public Speaking and Sharing Lessons Learned

• Speaks about turning obstacles into opportunities and using adversity as a gift
• Draws on law enforcement and endurance racing stories to encourage resilience
• Believes sharing lessons from global conflict benefits law enforcement and the general population

[30:11 - 33:44] Legacy and Supporting the Next Generation

• Law enforcement faces unique challenges: PTSD, staffing shortages, confidence crisis
• Experienced officers should share stories to help others navigate challenges
• Legacy means helping others climb up, not closing the door behind oneself

Key Quotes:

"What you control is your attitude, your effort, your actions and your reactions. If you can control those things and focus inward on those things, the outcomes take care of themselves." - Kristofor Healey

"You don't turn around and close the door behind you. You put a ladder behind you so that people can climb up behind you." - Kristofor Healey

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.