Ever wonder what it really feels like to leave behind an elite military career and try to build a meaningful life on the other side? In this preview from Travis Makes Friends, Travis Chappell sits down with former Marine fighter pilot Dave Berke and former Air Force Thunderbirds pilot Mace Curran to talk about life after service, the challenge of translating hard-earned experience into a new career, and what it takes to keep growing once the mission changes.

Dave and Mace open up about the long, demanding process of writing books and distilling years of experience into lessons others can actually use. What sounds simple on the surface turns out to be a deeply reflective process — one that requires not just expertise, but the ability to look back, connect the dots, and turn lived experience into something teachable. Travis unpacks why that skill matters so much, especially for people whose credibility comes from having done the work at the highest level.

The conversation also digs into what they enjoy most now: making an impact. Mace shares how powerful it is to see the direct effect of her keynotes, whether she’s speaking to a crowd, connecting face-to-face afterward, or hearing months later that something she said changed someone’s life. Dave echoes that same theme from the leadership side, explaining how meaningful it is to teach leadership as a skill anyone can learn, improve, and pass on to others.

You’ll also hear honest reflections on what’s been difficult in the transition out of the military — from missing the camaraderie of a fighter squadron to adjusting to a different kind of social life. Mace talks candidly about the challenge of building friendships outside that world and realizing relationships don’t just happen automatically anymore; they take intentionality and effort. Dave shares a similar perspective, describing how he’s found connection through both work and his family life, while still appreciating the rare bond that comes from serving in an elite, high-pressure environment.

This preview also touches on the unique culture of military aviation, the emotional pull of flying, and the realities of whether they miss it. For Mace, the answer is complicated: she doesn’t miss the flying as much as she misses the people, the language, and the sense of belonging. For Dave, the military is something he looks back on with gratitude, but not longing — because he’s found fulfillment in what he’s doing now.

If you’ve ever wondered how high performers reinvent themselves after a defining career, or how to build a life filled with purpose when your old identity no longer fits, this conversation offers an honest and encouraging look at what that transition really takes.

Hit play to hear how Dave and Mace are building impact, connection, and purpose in the next chapter of their lives.

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