In this episode, Zack reflects on Monday's episode with Katie Campbell about necessary skills for leadership and success. He ties it to his experience organizing high-profile events featuring General Petraeus and collaborating across teams and organizations. Key themes shared in this episode are bringing self-awareness to conversations, and applying 'soft skills' as an entrepreneur.

[00:00 - 00:56] - Reflecting on Necessary Skills Conversation

• Katie Campbell reframed "soft skills" as "necessary skills" critical for advancement and success
• These skills help garner respect and bring teams together

[00:57 - 04:09] - Organizing High-Profile Events

• Inspiring to see collaboration between organizations, like military units
• Had to quickly build relationships and lead team for Petraeus events
• Applies same necessary skills as deploying with new platoon of soldiers

[04:10 - 07:13] - Working with Different Personalities

• Have to work with people you're given in any organization
• Mentor highlights using people's talents rather than complaining
• Recognizing the challenge in dealing with difficult personalities

[07:14 - 08:06] - Key Themes and Continuing the Conversation

• Friday's episode will cover tactics to increase self-awareness
• As leaders we can always improve our collaborative abilities
• Will explore how to have constructive conversations around necessary skills

Key Quote:

"I didn't get to choose what soldiers I deployed with. I didn't get to choose who my leadership was. You've got what you've got.” - Zack Knight

__________________________________

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Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

"Work the magic on really pulling the goodness out of you so that you're inspired...you know exactly what you need to do. Off you go and you hit success.." - Catie Campbell

In this episode, host Zack Knight chats with executive coach and culture expert Catie Campbell about developing necessary skills like emotional intelligence to become a more effective leader. They explore practical tactics to improve self-awareness, handle difficult emotions, and create positive company cultures. Catie shares wisdom from her extensive experience empowering leaders across various industries.

Catie Campbell is an executive coach who has worked with more than 25,000 leaders (probably more!) to help them build, scale, and deepen their leadership impact. She has worked in nearly every industry and segment studying what excellence in leadership looks like. She uses that experience to influence and shape how leaders take on the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving world of work. She is an emotional intelligence expert, early-stage startup investor, and mentor, and provides pro-bono support for veterans transitioning in their careers. Former military spouse, single mom of 2 girls, excellent cook, practical alchemist, friendly to all, friend to the people who know how to go deep.

[00:01 - 13:58] Enhancing Connections Through Shared Experiences

• Catie supports Stand Beside Them to aid veterans with their civilian transitions
• Experience the benefits of joining organizations and coaching programs
• Hosting retreats allows vulnerable connections to drive business impact

[13:59 - 23:02] Understanding Emotions to Guide Actions

• Deep connections are made through emotional interactions
• Meditation helps slow down and precisely understand emotions
• Determine constructive actions based on the emotions you feel
• Writing feelings down helps process emotions before deciding actions

[23:03 - 29:40] Building Self-Awareness as a Leader

• Soft skills are necessary skills to leadership
• Prioritize psychological safety as part of company culture
• Seek upward feedback from your team regularly
• Consistently follow through on actions around feedback

[29:41 – 31:10] Creating a Leadership Legacy

• Catie aims to help leaders better serve their people
• She wants to create healthier work environments for future generations
• Zack recaps lessons on bringing teams together for a shared mission
• Check out https://www.colibrimagic.com/ 

Key Quote:

"If the emotional stuff is like a stretch for some people, writing it down can be in, not verbalizing it to anybody can be a really safe way. It’s a great tactic to walk into that." - Catie Campbell

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Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

In this episode, Zach Knight interviews Valerie Lavin, founder of Luminary Global, about supporting veteran entrepreneurship in Tampa, FL. They discuss Valerie's background serving over 20 years in the Army, her transition into entrepreneurship and non-profit work after retiring, and the mission behind Action Zone to provide resources, education, and a community for veterans exploring business ownership. Valerie highlights the power of entrepreneurs and small businesses to drive economic growth and social progress. She shares advice for transitioning veterans on finding their niche and remaining agile as entrepreneurs.

[00:00 - 13:20] - Valerie's Background and Transition to Entrepreneurship

• Retired Army First Sergeant after 20+ years of service
• Transitioned to Tampa and fell in love with the city
• Didn't connect much with local veteran community while active duty

[13:20 - 26:00] - Supporting Entrepreneurs and Small Business

• Veterans founding companies can have positive economic impacts
• Entrepreneurs and small business critical for America's success
• Veterans have inherent skills for business ownership

[26:00 - 39:20] - The Mission and Legacy of Action Zone

• Goal is to guide veterans interested in exploring entrepreneurship
• Entrepreneurs need a supportive community to learn and thrive
• Launching online platform connecting mentors and subject matter experts

[39:20 - 47:34] - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

• Asks room for introductions, connections, and spreading the word
• Encourages networking with Valerie and exchanging information
• Challenges audience to take action in supporting veteran entrepreneurs

Key Quote:

"It is the entrepreneur that will continue to make this country great." - Valerie Ellis Lavin

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! 

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Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

This episode focuses on tactics to enhance intimacy and connection in relationships by integrating your partner into your morning routine. Zach and Taylor discuss the importance of including intimacy and affection in busy morning routines. They share examples of how they make time for each other first thing in the morning, even when getting ready for busy days. The key is being willing to interject yourself into your partner's routine playfully and accept attention when your partner does the same.

[00:00 – 8:23] - Maintaining Intimacy in a Busy Routine

• Waking up together sets the tone for intimacy
• Physical touch like a kiss or hug shows affection
• Verbal affirmations reinforce your bond
• Scheduling couple time prevents neglect

[08:23 – 13:38] - Injecting Playfulness into the Routine

• Be willing to lovingly disrupt your partner’s routine
• Accept your partner’s bid for attention
• Surprise affection can make mundane tasks more fun
• Teasing and banter lightens the mood

[13:38 – 20:20] - Balancing Your Needs

• Learn to initiate and receive spontaneous intimacy
• Don’t give up if your partner seems distracted
• Persist playfully if you meet initial rejection
• Your partner will likely reciprocate affection

[20:20 – 23:36] - Closing Thoughts

• Make time for physical and emotional intimacy
• Integrate your partner into your morning ritual
• Be open, playful and persistent with showing love

Key Quote:

"Be playful with your partner." - Taylor Merritt

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.

Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

"Alphas respect alphas. Somebody that is the CEO or C suite is gonna respect a hard charger because they see themselves in that person as a hard charger." - Zack Knight

Get ready to level up your resilience and self-belief as hosts Zack Knight and Taylor Merritt have a no-holds barred conversation on dealing with criticism. They reflect on feedback they've received from a recent viral video that rubbed some viewers the wrong way. They explore overcoming the fear of rejection, accepting worst-case scenarios, and summoning the courage to put yourself out there time and again.

Drawing from their own experiences, Zack and Taylor share hard-won wisdom on building confidence, reaching out to mentors, and maintaining laser focus on your goals. With plenty of lighthearted banter mixed in, they inspire us to believe in our own voice and abilities even when others try to dim our shine. 

[00:00 - 06:28] - Reflecting on Feedback

• Zack and Taylor discuss feedback received on their "moving the car seat" video
• They compare it to the double standard of leaving the toilet seat up
• Zack argues fear of rejection inhibits people more than fear of regret

[06:29 - 20:43] - Dealing with Negative Feedback

• Unexpected negative feedback can feel like a public assault
• Building inner resilience takes time
• Seeking mentorship can provide perspective

[20:44 - 28:12] - Overcoming Rejection

• Accepting worst-case scenarios can empower action despite fear
• Don't take rejection personally, keep working towards goals

[28:13 - 46:14] - Having the Courage to Act

• Introducing yourself to influential people shows initiative
• Picturing and accepting worst-case scenarios allows action despite fear

[46:15 - 50:49] - Asking for Guidance

• Don't be afraid to ask mentors for guidance
• Overcome rejection with team support

Key Quote:

“Who cares? Go freaking do your job, get it done. Feel good about yourself. Move on. You know, your value, you know your worth.” - Taylor Merritt

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.

Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

"Batman's beauty is that he is a regular person without superpowers, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done." - S.A Grant

In this episode, host K.C. Sullivan discusses the power of assessments for personal and professional growth with guest S.A. Grant, a brand and growth strategist. From using the “superhero question” to identify someone’s abilities to optimization on websites, S.A. provides savvy insights on implementing assessments for personal growth and business success.

You’ll be captivated hearing S.A.’s incredible story of surviving a stroke in 2018 that led him to start his podcast “Boss Uncaged.” 

[00:00 - 03:19] - Explaining The Need For Assessments

• S.A. explains assessments allow you to see where you fit in the "game" and then modify, change and adapt.
• He discusses using the "superhero question" to quickly identify someone's characteristics and abilities.
• S.A. shares how to build a balanced team using complimentary personality types

[03:20 - 08:05] - Using Assessments to Identify Abilities 

• K.C. asks how S.A. uses assessments to identify team members' abilities when building an organization.
• K.C. discusses using assessments to pinpoint areas for confidence improvement with clients.
• S.A. emphasizes assessments are used in all aspects of life, from buying a house to getting into college.

[08:06 - 19:31] - Relationships Using Assessments

• S.A. shares how opposites attract and complement each other in relationships and business partnerships.
• K.C. gives examples of using assessments to help clients improve specific areas of confidence related to their goals.
• S.A. suggests involving a professional third party to give assessments for things like parent-teen relationships.

[19:32 - 27:57] - S.A.'s Podcast Journey Inspired by Surviving a Stroke

• S.A. tells the powerful story of how he survived a stroke in 2018 that inspired his podcast journey.
• He explains the meaning behind the Boss Uncaged logo and brand name.
• S.A. shares about his podcast, The Boss Uncaged, and his unique in-depth interview style.

[27:58 - 42:31] - Key Takeaways on Using Assessments Strategically

• S.A. emphasizes that every company website should use data collection and lead generation.
• K.C. concludes with key takeaways about utilizing assessments strategically.
• Assessments provide critical data to set strategic goals when used properly.

Key Quote:

"If I go to your website, and  I can't give you my email address, or I can't make a purchase in two clicks or less, you fucked up." - S.A. Grant

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.

Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

"Fashion is the only venue that we have that is sort of resilient to … these other types of agendas that orbit around us in society ... you can do anything and you can do everything and you can be exactly who you want." - Frederick Taylor 

In this episode of the Tactical Leader Podcast, host KC Sullivan has an engaging conversation with Emmy award winning filmmaker Frederick Taylor about how fashion, film and pop culture shape our self-image and culture. They discuss the power of authentic self-expression through style and using clothes to intentionally project confidence. Frederick shares how fashion allows people to belong and feel represented. 

If you want to learn more about how fashion and film have shaped our culture, and how we can use this to improve our self-confidence, this is the episode for you!

[00:00 - 04:08] Frederick's Background

• Grew up protecting others, believing in equity
• Realized the industry he was in didn't align with his desire to create impactful work

[04:09 - 17:58] Being Yourself and Using Fashion to Build Identity

• Don't get caught chasing superficial goals
• Focus on believing in your abilities and serving others
• Fashion builds identity and pathways to become your best self
• It helps you belong and feel empowered

[17:59 - 38:21] Intentional Style and Diverse Representation

• Style is how you utilize fashion
• Be intentional about the message your style projects
• Benetton's diverse ads were groundbreaking
• Representation matters

[38:22 - 53:07] Enjoying Self-Expression and Teaching Next Generations

• Enjoy and document your fashion journey
• Trends fade, but self-belief lasts
• Teach youth when self-expression needs to align with appropriateness
• Guide them to stay grounded in themselves

Key Quotes:

"When you … fall on your face, you make mistakes … you have your scrapes, that's okay. You're not in this game to try to be perfect. You're in this game to try to be you." - Frederick Taylor 

Connect with Frederick Taylor:

Instagram: @fr3der1ck

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.

“It's a lot of work. It takes a team. And so, I actually incorporated drone work into my work. And I just decided to do aerial photos and videos because it was just less equipment to bring around. But the main challenge, I guess is networking in the business arena because I'm used to being a police officer and those environments, not the business environments.” – Justin Arndt

How do you overcome self-doubt? In today’s episode, Zack and Taylor are joined by Justin Arndt. Justin discusses his journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship and his experience with starting his own business, Our Local Heroes. They talk about how Justin overcame self-doubt by taking risks and connecting with veterans at Post-29 of the American Legion.

Justin explores balancing giving and taking when running a business, the importance of making personal connections, and how to get veterans in front of cameras.

Tune in to this episode of The Tactical Leader, as Justin shares how he was able to transition out of law enforcement into entrepreneurship!

[00:00 - 02:05] Appreciating Frontline Leaders

• If you have a platform and you want to create content that DELIVERS, go over to knightly.productions!
• Zack welcomes, Justin Arndt!
• Justin struggled with transitioning from police officer to business networking

[02:06 - 17:35] Overcoming Isolation And Finding Community

• When he decided to incorporate drone work into his work
• Found a community of entrepreneurs at American Legion Post-29
• Started volunteering and providing photography services for veterans
• Started a passion project which quickly turned into an LLC

[17:36 - 29:05] Capturing The Legacy Of Others And Finding Balance

• Justin shares a story about a missed opportunity to capture a legacy
• The challenges of turning a passion into a business
• Separating personal and professional life
• Making personal connections with veterans can be a challenge

[25:06 – 42:49] Closing Segment

• Closing words and reminders
• Justin shares how to successfully turn your passion into a business!

Key Quote:

“I guess the one thing that I struggled in when I was trying to figure out what to do at my pace. So, I made a decision. I was like, “How can I work at my own pace”, and go by my own rules and try to figure out this next chapter and work for myself because I got limitations now. So, I slowly did my thing. And I first started out, trying to do video and photo work and video equipment is heavy and there's a lot of it.” – Justin Arndt

Connect with Justin Arndt:

LinkedIn: Justin Arndt

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.

"Shoot your shot. You might miss, but at least you showed up." – Taylor Merritt

Ever felt that just 'being there' doesn't cut it anymore? In today’s episode, Taylor and Zack, dive in as we explore why it's crucial to evolve from mere presence to making an impactful presence. They delve into the essence of what it means to show up and the significance of contributing in ways that leave a mark. Zack drives home the idea that merely showing up is only the first step. To genuinely prosper in relationships or any endeavor, one must demonstrate consistent growth and active participation. Taylor shares an experience that resonate with everyone who's faced setbacks. While he didn't hit his mark, he underscores the importance of learning, adapting, and the drive to come back stronger. Zack’s perspective on viewing setbacks as learning curves shines a light on the perils of becoming stagnant and the benefits of venturing outside one's comfort zones. They also touch upon personal evolution, embracing new experiences, and the power of seizing the day. Taylor aptly says, "Shoot your shot. You might miss, but at least you showed up."

[00:00 - 21:42] Exploring New Horizons

• Zack and Taylor discuss why stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections.
• Building relationships often involves assessing whether you genuinely connect with people beyond just business interactions.
• Demonstrating respect by making an effort to be present in someone else's world can lead to stronger business relationships.
• Creating comfort for others and being open to forming connections can enhance your overall experiences in unfamiliar environments.

[21:43 - 41:48] Lessons from Austin: Building Connections

·      First impressions matter; a warm reception can leave a lasting positive impact.

·      Setting expectations for yourself is vital in evaluating relationships and experiences.

·      Genuine gestures and efforts to make others feel comfortable set people apart and build strong connections.

[21:43 - 41:48] Seizing Opportunities and Taking Your Shot

·      Showing up and contributing is key in both personal and business relationships.

·      Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and grow is essential.

·      Trying new things and being open to new experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Key Quote:

“Every fail is an opportunity to learn. You met a failure point, now you have an opportunity to learn something new, get better at something, create a different stance on something." – Zack A. Knight

Connect with Taylor Merritt:

Website: Daddy Tay Fitness

LinkedIn: Taylor Merritt

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 on 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.

Tactical Leadership is brought to you by Knight Protection Services. A veteran-owned and operated company, with extensive experience in risk assessment and crime prevention. Find out more by visiting  https://knightprotectionllc.com/

If you want to learn how to build a better business, check out my website at Beatacticalleader.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

"Speaking on stage for me has always been about elevating my existence. And gaining continued clarity." - Glenn Lundy

Welcome back to another Tactical Friday! In this episode, we welcome back Glenn Lundy, who dives deep into what it takes to command a massive stage in front of thousands of people. Glenn shares insights into the tactics he used to conquer his fear and deliver an unforgettable speech to a live audience of 10,000, plus 50,000 online viewers. He reveals the power of speaking from the heart, sharing personal experiences, and how stages can be platforms for personal growth. Glenn also emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships and friendships, especially when living a busy, entrepreneurial life. He reminds us that the decisions we make today will shape our future selves at 80, so why not invest in lasting friendships and meaningful connections?

[00:00 - 11:03] Sharing What You Learned to Impact Others

[11:04 - 19:22] Meaningful Relationships for a Fulfilling Future

Key Quote:

"Don't go out thinking you're going to save the world. Instead, go in and figure out what it is that you need to learn or that you have learned that saved you and share that, and that will get you more stages and create a bigger impact." - Glenn Lundy

Check out full show notes by clicking “Episode Website” below.

Leave a 5-star Review and help this show reach more people. To find out more about me, visit https://knightprotectionllc.com/