Episoder
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Napoleon "Nap" DeCiutiis is the president of ECFGov, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business specializing in advanced hydrofoil boat manufacturing. A retired Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Master Chief from the U.S. Navy, Nap served for 24 years, including multiple deployments and significant leadership roles. He also founded Emerald Cush Farms, a CBD extraction company. Nap's leadership is informed by a robust operational background and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston, West Virginia.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by a fellow veteran and entrepreneur Napoleon "Nap" DeCiutiis. They discuss leadership, success, failures, and the pivotal moments that have shaped their respective careers. Nap shares his journey from his childhood through a distinguished military career to his transition into entrepreneurship. They delve into the importance of aligning people with the mission, learning from leadership failures, and the essential qualities that define effective leadership. The conversation also touches on Nap's ventures in CBD extraction, real estate development, and innovative hydrofoil boat manufacturing. Listeners gain valuable insights into leadership principles and the resilience required to succeed in both military and business environments.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership and Ego: Both guests highlight that failures in leadership often stem from ego problems. This is a recurring theme in history as well as in personal experiences.
Importance of Care: Successful leadership involves taking care of the people who support you, a key point emphasized multiple times.
Career Transitions: The value of quitting a poor job to find something more fulfilling is noted as a liberating and necessary step for personal growth.
Veteran Support: The enterprise's commitment to supporting veteran foundations such as the Naval Special Operations Foundation and EOD Warrior Foundation is highlighted as a crucial goal.
Resilience and Adaptability: Both guests shared how they adapted and rebounded from significant challenges, showcasing the resilience needed in leadership and entrepreneurship.
Vision and Buy-in: A leader's vision needs to be perpetually communicated and reinforced to ensure that team members are aligned with the mission.
QUOTES
"You can get everyone from loyalty talk out here with an F and shovel."
"The biggest secret to leadership that I've found is always just taking care of my people."
"When you forget about taking care of the people who take care of you, you will not be a leader anymore."
"If that person on your team screws something up and they own their shortcomings, put them on a path for recovery."
"I use my education, my training, and my experience to enable others to accomplish their objectives."
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Lee Milteer is an internationally known entrepreneur, best-selling author, award-winning professional speaker, TV personality, and business mentor. She provides business and success advice to nearly 250,000 people around the world. Lee is the founder of the Alchemist Inner Circle and hosts the Blonde Warrior of Solutions on Rumble. Additionally, she has co-authored several esteemed books and has been an expert on over 1,500 TV and radio shows globally.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by Lee Milteer, an internationally known entrepreneur and business mentor. The episode delves into Lee's unique upbringing in a Virginia farming village, her entrepreneurial journey starting at age 12, and her evolution into a prolific author and professional speaker. Lee shares valuable leadership insights, emphasizing the importance of resilience, empowerment, and recognizing opportunities. The discussion also highlights the significance of personal growth and the impact of leadership on teams. The episode concludes by exploring the power of facing challenges to expand comfort zones and build confidence.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership Fundamentals: Leadership is a perishable skill; continuous practice and learning are essential.
Diverse Experiences: Both Bob Pazzini and Lee Milteer shared experiences from various fields that shaped their leadership styles.
Resilience in Leadership: Overcoming adversity is a crucial part of leadership growth, as seen in Milteer's recovery post-9/11.
Entrepreneurial Journey: Milteer's early life experiences and varied careers demonstrate the importance of leveraging unique skills and opportunities.
Personal Branding: Pazzini's leadership principles are anchored in maintaining a consistent personal brand and nurturing physical and mental well-being.
Value of Mentorship: Both speakers emphasized the impact of teaching, mentoring, and enabling others to achieve their objectives.
Passion-Driven Work: Success is often tied to finding work that aligns with one's passions and interests.
Team Dynamics: Building a strong, cohesive team is vital, and maintaining a steady, positive presence as a leader fosters trust and productivity.
Growth Mindset: Continual learning and adaptability are pivotal for both personal and professional development in leadership roles.
QUOTES
"Leadership is a perishable skill. Use it or lose it."
"We don't raise princesses here, we raise warriors."
"It's called pace-setting. It's a leadership style."
"We live in a reality where every day there are things trying to victimize you."
"As a leader, you have to put aside your personal issues before engaging with your team."
"Leaders are people who see possibilities."
"We don't lead from a place of weakness."
"You've got to be married to what you're doing."
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Manglende episoder?
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Jen Kiggans is a distinguished public servant and the current Congresswoman for Virginia's 2nd Congressional District. A former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, Jen has combined her aviation experience and her background as a geriatric nurse practitioner to serve her country and community with dedication and integrity. Her efforts focus on impactful legislative work, especially in areas such as national security, the economy, and veteran affairs. Jen leads by example, demonstrating a commitment to unifying rather than dividing, and consistently prioritizes the well-being of her constituents.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by Congresswoman Jen Kiggins to share her insights on various critical topics. These include the current challenges within her role as a U.S. Congresswoman, such as the importance of passing appropriations bills, border security, and economic concerns faced by her constituents. Kiggins talks about the divisiveness in politics, her efforts in improving military quality of life, and addresses issues like the economy, national defense, and public safety. The discussion also delves into her experiences in serving in the Virginia State Senate and leading by example in the political arena.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Discussion on the importance of leadership skills and the diversity.
Jen Kiggans talks about the challenges and responsibilities of U.S. Congress members.
The conversation touches on key issues like border security, the economy, national defense, and healthcare.
Notes on bipartisan efforts and specific bills, including the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Emphasis on the upcoming election and the importance of voter participation.
Personal anecdotes from Bob about the impact of economic conditions on his business.
Jen Kiggans shares her views on political leadership versus private sector leadership.
QUOTES
"Leadership is a perishable skill. Use it or lose it." — Robert Pizzini
"You would think the nominee would have to have been selected through an election process. I would think so. The basic foundation of our democracy." — Robert Pizzini
"As leaders, if you don't go and speak to your front line people and see the ground truth firsthand, you will never respond accordingly." — Robert Pizzini
"The media couldn't cover for him anymore. The American people saw that, so you can only lie so much before people are seeing with their own eyes." — Jen Kiggans
"Don't lie about your military service." — Jen Kiggans
"We can disagree without being disagreeable." — Jen Kiggans
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Dr. Ronny Jackson is a U.S. Navy veteran, former White House physician, and current U.S. Congressman from Texas's 13th congressional district. Raised in Texas, Jackson attended Texas A&M University and the University of Texas Medical Branch for medical school before embarking on a distinguished 25-year service in the Navy, where he served in various capacities including emergency medicine and diving medical officer. Notably, he served as the Physician to the President under George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, and later as Chief Medical Advisor to President Trump. He retired as a rear admiral and was elected to the U.S. Congress in 2020.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by Dr. Ronny Jackson, a U.S. Congressman and former White House physician, to discuss his remarkable journey from Texas to the White House. Through personal anecdotes, Dr. Jackson shares leadership lessons learned from his diverse roles, including military service and his time with multiple U.S. Presidents. The discussion also delves into national security concerns, critiquing President Joe Biden's competence and the perceived failures of his administration. Topics include immigration, border security, and the challenges faced by major cities. The conversation concludes with an optimistic view of the need for stronger leadership and effective policies.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership Under Pressure: Dr. Jackson's experiences in emergency medicine and battlefield conditions have honed his leadership skills, which he carried into his roles at the White House and Congress.
Critical Medical Role in the White House: Serving as the Physician to multiple presidents, Jackson was a key figure in maintaining the health and readiness of the nation's leaders, demonstrating the importance of medical expertise in high-stakes environments.
Smooth Transition to Politics: Despite having no initial interest in political office, Jackson's commitment to public service and his detailed understanding of veterans' issues drove him to successfully run for Congress.
State of U.S. National Security: Jackson raises concerns about the current administration's handling of national security, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership and accountability.
Active Participation in Democracy: Jackson encourages listeners to engage actively in the political process, stressing the significant impact each individual can have on the future of the country.
QUOTES
"Everything you've done, you've done with energy, with vigor, with conviction and compassion."
"If you don't like what's happening in our country right now, you have the ability to change it, right? But you have to act."
"Being an emergency medicine physician before I saw a lot of that stuff helped prepare me for that kind of stuff because I'd seen a lot of death and I'd seen a lot of horrible things."
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Robert F. McDonnell, the 71st Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, is renowned for his extensive political career and military service. Having served in various leadership roles and received a multitude of accolades, McDonnell's background includes time in the Virginia House of Delegates, Attorney General of Virginia, and distinguished professor positions at renowned universities. With a focus on law, government, and business development, McDonnell continues to play an active role in shaping political discourse and policy decisions.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by Governor Robert F. McDonnell shares insights on the recent unfortunate assassination attempt on President Trump, delving into the current state of political discourse and the need for civility in leadership. Reflecting on his impactful career from military service to political office, McDonnell touches on defining moments, key leadership lessons, and the importance of bipartisan cooperation. As a seasoned leader, McDonnell navigates through challenges, highlighting the essence of service, sacrifice, and perseverance in driving positive change.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership is about teamwork, perseverance, and empathy, with a focus on service before self.
Civility in political dialogue is essential to bridge partisan divides and uphold democratic values.
Inspirational leadership stems from experiences like serving in the military and engaging with frontline workers.
Addressing critical issues such as gun control, natural disasters, and military deployments require strong decision-making and compassionate leadership.
Advocating for unity, respect, and the preservation of democratic principles is paramount for effective governance.
QUOTES
"Resolving our societal problems requires leaders to transcend partisanship and prioritize the greater good."
"Hard work, good ideas, and perseverance are essential for success in both politics and life."
"Inspiration often arises from witnessing the sacrifices and dedication of our servicemen and women."
"Every decision made in leadership reflects not only policy but also values and the vision for a better future."
"The essence of leadership lies in empathy, humility, and a commitment to serving the people with integrity."
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Dr. Scott Miller is the president of Virginia Wesleyan University with a remarkable 34-year career in higher education leadership. Recognized for his transformative leadership style, Dr. Miller is a seasoned college president guiding institutions towards international recognition. With a background in journalism and a track record of being a change agent, he excels at moving organizations to the next level through innovative strategies and forward-thinking leadership.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini is joined by Dr. Scott Miller to share his insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of education. From his upbringing on the main line of Philadelphia to his four college presidencies, Dr. Miller discusses the importance of transformational leadership and the need to continuously innovate to stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of higher education. He emphasizes the significance of implementing a Blue Ocean Strategy to find new markets and opportunities for growth.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Dr. Miller's leadership philosophy focuses on guiding and impacting outcomes within groups or organizations, emphasizing the importance of being a transformative leader and driving change.
He highlights the concept of a Blue Ocean Strategy to find new market opportunities and revolutionize traditional approaches in higher education.
The discussion touches on the benefits of technology in the classroom, exploring ways to incorporate innovations such as e-sports programs and utilizing advanced tech tools for enhanced learning experiences.
Dr. Miller's approach to leadership involves assembling a team of superior individuals with diverse skills and expertise to drive organizational success and forward momentum.
Changing the landscape of social media, student engagement, and mental health on college campuses, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation and innovation.
QUOTES
"If an institution is standing still, it's really going backwards, and my philosophy of leadership has always been to take what's broken and fix it and to take an organization to the next level."
"I hire superior individuals. I was 31 years old. I had a 67-year-old academic VP who probably... I had people superior in their areas of specialty, and I learned that it was my job; I was ultimately judged not by any one thing but by how the overall organization produced."
Get to know more about Scott Miller:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottd2/
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Jessica Quintero Howard is the founder and general manager of Turnkey Cleaning, a residential and commercial cleaning company focusing on vacant properties. Originally from San Andres Island, Colombia, Jessica migrated to the United States and pursued the American dream with ambition and a growth mindset. She has a strong background in business strategies, organizational development, operations, sustainability, and corporate finance. Jessica is known for her dedication to empowering women, training and developing skilled cleaning professionals, and giving back to the community by assisting those struggling with hoarding issues.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini discusses leadership and business strategies with Jessica Quintero Howard. Jessica shares her journey from starting a cleaning company to transitioning into commercial cleaning projects and empowering other women to start their own cleaning businesses. They delve into the importance of effective leadership, communication, and building trust within teams. Jessica also talks about her commitment to personal growth and embracing challenges for professional development.
Key themes include Jessica's resilient upbringing on a small island, her entrepreneurial spirit, the impact of COVID-19 on her business strategy, and her dedication to helping the Latin community start their own businesses. The episode showcases Jessica's leadership philosophy centered around leading by example, fostering open communication, and empowering her team through mentorship and guidance.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Jessica's journey from starting a cleaning company to empowering other women to establish their own businesses.
The significance of leading by example and creating a culture of trust within teams.
The impact of COVID-19 on Jessica's business strategy and the transition to vacant property cleaning.
The importance of effective communication, asking the right questions, and active listening in leadership.
Jessica's commitment to personal growth, resilience, and perseverance in pursuing her goals.
QUOTES
"Lead by example and always learn something before teaching it to others."
"Effective communication and asking the right questions are essential for guiding team members in the right direction."
"The Latin community is full of smart, hardworking individuals striving for the American dream."
"Building trust with team members starts with genuine care and support for their growth and development."
"Completing challenges like the 75 Hard program requires perseverance and dedication to personal growth."
Get to know more about Jessica Quintero Howard:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-quintero-howard/
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Dave Cooper is a distinguished former U.S. Navy SEAL and an expert in change leadership and complex system science. With a career marked by valor, innovation, and leadership, Dave has been at the heart of critical operations across Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. His leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in some of the most significant special operations missions in U.S. military history. After retiring, Dave pursued advanced education, earning master's degrees in change leadership from the University of Oxford and HEC Paris, as well as a master's degree in complex adaptive system science from Arizona State University. Today, as the founder of Verge, Dave integrates high-performance teaming concepts from his SEAL days with advanced organizational and complex system science theories to guide businesses and teams through complexity and change. He is also the author of the bestselling book, "The Culture Code."
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode, Robert Pizzini Pizzini interviews Dave Cooper, a former U.S. Navy SEAL and expert in change leadership and complex system science. Dave shares insights from his remarkable military career and discusses the importance of leadership, culture, and teamwork in achieving success. He highlights the role of education in personal and professional growth and emphasizes the need for leaders to lead by example and foster a positive organizational culture. Dave also delves into the concept of complex systems and how understanding them can help organizations navigate change and improve performance.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership is about influencing a group of people towards a common goal.
Culture is the collective programming of the mind and shapes how individuals think and act within an organization.
Effective leadership involves leading by example, actively listening to teammates, and co-creating solutions to complex problems.
Education plays a crucial role in personal and professional development, enabling individuals to enhance their skills and contribute more effectively to their teams.
Understanding complex systems and their dynamics can help organizations adapt to change and improve performance.
QUOTES
"Leadership is influence in a group of people aimed at a common goal."
"Culture is where stuff grows. It determines how we act and what we find important in the world."
Get to know more about Dave Cooper:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-cooper-387aaa3b/
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Marty Strong, a three-time guest on the "Elevate Your Leadership" podcast, is a former Navy SEAL, author, and Chief Executive Officer. With three published books – "Be Nimble," "Be Visionary," and "Be Different" – Marty draws on his SEAL experience and corporate leadership to explore unconventional thinking and innovative leadership strategies. He emphasizes the importance of challenging norms, fostering creativity, and embracing change to achieve exceptional results. Throughout the podcast, he discusses crisis leadership in "Be Nimble," strategic vision in "Be Visionary," and the significance of bending rules judiciously in "Be Different." Marty's insights revolve around encouraging leaders to break away from conventional wisdom, nurture creativity, and adapt continuously in a rapidly evolving world, drawing inspiration from historical figures and his own diverse background.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast, Navy SEAL Veteran and CEO Bob Pizzini dives deep into the art of leadership and innovation with Marty Strong, a successful CEO and author. Marty draws from his experiences as a Navy SEAL to discuss his trilogy of books - "Be Nimble," "Be Visionary," and "Be Different." They explore how leaders can bend, break, or ignore conventional rules to drive results, fostering a culture of intellectual creativity, curiosity, and humility. Unveiling the myths around creativity and stability, they reveal how leaders can embrace change, challenge norms, and navigate uncertainty in today's evolving landscape.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership transcends conventional norms and embraces intellectual humility, curiosity, and creativity.
Intellectual humility strips away biases and paves the way for absorbing new information.
Intellectual curiosity involves exploring beyond comfort zones, leveraging diverse perspectives, and industry cross-pollination for innovative thinking.
Intellectual creativity emerges when humility and curiosity converge, birthing novel ideas and disruptive innovations.
Stability is an illusion; leaders must embrace adaptability, flexibility, and a forward-thinking mindset to navigate constant change successfully.
History shows visionary leaders were often young and unburdened by preconceived limitations, challenging norms to drive radical change.
QUOTES
"Stability is an illusion. The universe is in a constant state of change, and leaders who cling to stability get left behind."
"Leadership is about seeing the future and leading that change, not resisting it."
"Innovation thrives when we break free from the constraints of conventional thinking."
Get to know more about Marty Strong.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-strong-9676bb13/
ABOUT ROBERT
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together your will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert.
Website: https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Susan Kilrain is an American aerospace engineer, former United States Navy officer, and a former NASA astronaut. She is the youngest person to pilot a Space Shuttle. She has flown more than 3,000 hours and among her merits she was awarded with the Defense Superior Service Medal.
SHOW SUMMARY
Join host Bob Pizzini in an inspiring conversation with NASA astronaut Susan Kilrain, where she shares her extraordinary journey from a childhood fascination with flying to becoming one of the few women to pilot the Space Shuttle. Susan's remarkable career, from aeronautical engineering to Navy test pilot to two space shuttle missions, reflects her determination to defy barriers and achieve her dreams. Discover her experiences in space, the challenges she overcame, and her inspiring insights on leadership, resilience, and pursuing one's passions.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Susan Kilrain's childhood fascination with airplanes and her journey from obtaining a private pilot's license to becoming an astronaut.
Overcoming gender barriers and challenges in a male-dominated field as a Navy test pilot and space shuttle pilot.
Her experiences in orbit, including missions aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia and the challenges faced during spaceflight.
Balancing a family life with a demanding career, making tough decisions, and transitioning to diverse post-astronaut roles.
QUOTES
"I didn't have any apprehension about being an astronaut and piloting the space shuttle. It was what I wanted to do."
"Flying in space, you know, if you could turn all the noise off from the shuttle, it would be completely quiet, dead silent. You don't feel anything. It's just weightlessness."
"Keeping the family together ultimately was the right decision, but everybody does it differently."
"It's good being on this side of my kids. They don't need me very much anymore."
Get to know more about Susan Kilrain.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-still-kilrain-ba527734/
ABOUT ROBERT
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together your will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert.
Website: https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Rear Admiral Paul Becker is a retired Naval Intelligence Officer with 30 years of experience in the intelligence community. He is the CEO of the Becker T3 Group and a professor at the U.S. Naval Academy. He has received numerous awards for his service, including the National Intelligence Community and Department of Defense's Distinguished Service Medals.
Retired Admiral Paul Becker discusses the importance of leadership and introduces his T3 framework: teamwork, tone, and tenacity. He emphasizes the role of leaders in taking risks and establishing relationships to build trust and loyalty within teams. He also highlights the value of lifelong learning and provides examples of leadership from various fields.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership involves taking risks and doing things differently.
Building trust and loyalty through relationships is crucial for effective leadership.
Lifelong learning is essential for leadership development.
Examples of leadership can be found in various fields, including military, business, and entertainment.
QUOTES
"Leadership is a process of getting a group of people to achieve a common goal."
"Trust and loyalty are the byproducts of relationships."
"Leadership is about progress, not perfection."
"Simplicity is the height of sophistication."
"There are leadership examples to motivate and inspire you every day."
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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Alan Mack, US Army, Chief Warrant Officer Five -- Retired, a native of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, served over 35 years in the US Army before retiring in 2016. His military career included 17 years in Army Special Operations. His awards include the Legion of Merit, 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 3 Bronze Stars, 10 Air Medals (one with Valor Device), and a Combat Action Badge. Additionally, he logged more than 6700 flying hours during his tenure. During Operations Desert Shield and Storm, Mack participated as a CH-47D Chinook pilot. He then flew MH-47s while assigned to the 160th SOAR, the Army’s only Special Operations Aviation Regiment. His crew was one of the first into Afghanistan and the first into Mazar-iSharif as part of America’s Response to the attacks on 9/11. His cargo, a 5th Special Forces ‘A’ Team (ODA 595), aka ‘the Horse Soldiers,’ helped topple the Taliban, capture the country’s capital, and reclaim possession of the US Embassy. As a Special Operations Flight Leader participating in special operations worldwide in support of the Global War on Terror, Mack collaborated with Army Rangers, Delta Force, Special Forces, Navy SEALS, assorted Special Operations Units, and Other Government agencies.
In this episode of Elevate Your Leadership, Robert Pizzini is joined by Alan C. Mack, to share his unique experiences and insights from his 35-year military career. He discusses growing up in New Hampshire, his journey to becoming a helicopter pilot, and his deployments to Afghanistan and other parts of the world. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of serving in Army Special Operations and the importance of teamwork and trust in high-stakes situations. Mack shares a touching story about the significance of a wedding ring during a mission and how it influenced his decision to never carry anything valuable while on duty. He also mentions his upcoming book, which will focus on the perspectives of crew chiefs and flight medics in the military.
Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast.
ELEVATING WISDOM
WHY ALAN LEFT THE MILITARY
“I figured I'm one of the only night stalkers that could write the book because of the way I left, and I'll explain. When you leave a special operations unit, everybody hates you right? Doesn't matter I did 17 years there and if I had just left, you know what guys? I'm gonna give up, I'm gonna retire, everybody hates you, they're mad at you for leaving and I never understood that but it is what it is. But when my wife dies, they know I need a change of venue and they're like “okay” and then the regimen takes care of me. It gets me up there to New York and they've been great.”
WHAT LEADERSHIP MEANS TO ALAN
“I call it the Tom Sawyer style of leadership. Okay, you know the story of Tom Sawyer where he's given the job to paint a fence and wash it right? And he ends up pretending that he likes it and he gets all of the neighborhood kids to paint for him. What are you doing? Huh? I'm painting a fence. Can I do it? No and so that was my idea. The Tom Sawyer style of leadership. Get them to do what you want but they think it's their idea” - Alan Mack
Get to know more about Alan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-c-mack-75b9a667/
Website: https://alancmack.com/
About Robert:
Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone.
Where to find Robert:
Website - https://robertpizzini.com/
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg
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In this most sobering, yet fascinating episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast, Ukrainian Air Force Colonel Hennadiy Kovalenko (Colonel H) discusses the current state of affairs regarding the war with Russia and the potential outcomes, including a total collapse of Russia. He has served Ukraine in uniform for 32 years and is highly experienced and educated. Colonel H discusses how President Putin was told that the Ukrainian people would welcome the invading Russian army with hugs, smiles, and flowers, and how this war really began in 2014 with the illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula. He has been assigned to NATO ACT in the United States since 2019, and will return to fight in his homeland within weeks.
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In this episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast, Michelle Ellis Young, Chief Executive Officer of YWCA South Hampton Roads, discusses her leadership journey culminating in her current role serving people in need in the Hampton Roads community. Michelle shares how her upbringing in New Orleans LA helped shape who she is today. She tells a story of how the YWCA helped save a woman from an abusive relationship, ultimately helping her achieve nursing qualifications, independence, and a career in the medical field. Michelle's energy is high, her demeanor is beyond pleasant, and she said that her flight experience at iFLY Virginia Beach instilled another layer of courage to do something that she did not think she would do.
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What is a Navy EOD Technician and what is it like to become one? Who was the father and founder of Navy EOD and Navy SEALS? In their book Unsung, Joseph Shaffer III and Dr. Paula Kapp Greene share their in-depth interviews with the dedicated men and women of the US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community, who quietly undertake some of the most dangerous missions performed by members of the American military. This first-person narrative incorporates the perspectives of the family members of these brave men and women, revealing the raw emotion of such a demanding military profession. I center my discussion on chapter three, A Brief History, and chapter eight, Leaders and Leadership. You can purchase this most revealing book on Amazon at UNSUNG: Quiet Voices of the US Navy's EOD Warriors and Their Families: Shaffer III, Joseph E., Greene, Dr. Paula Kapp: 9798358155909: Amazon.com: Books
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In this episode of The Elevate Your Leadership Podcast, Holly Duckworth defines mindfulness as we discuss what it means to leaders at work, and at home. Hallmark Holly (explained in this episode) tells us how Google uses mindfulness to allow a moment for arrival at the beginning of meetings and how you can use the same technique to begin any event throughout your day. She shows us how mindfulness can be one of your superpowers. Her positive outlook is demonstrated as she discusses live lines vs deadlines and life list vs bucket list.
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In this episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast, NASA Astronaut Susan Kilrain and I discuss her life and career. Commander Susan Kilrain is a renowned astronaut, a distinguished navy test pilot and aerospace engineer, and a world traveler. She is the youngest person, and one of only three women, to pilot the space shuttle. She served twenty years in the navy paving the way for women. She has flown more than 3,000 flight hours in over 30 different aircraft, and she was awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal. CDR Kilrain flew as pilot of STS-83 and STS-94, both in 1997, onboard the Space Shuttle Columbia, which disintegrated as it reentered the atmosphere over Texas and Louisiana, on February 1st, 2003, killing all seven astronauts on board. She has spent more than 20 days in space. Prior to joining the Navy, Susan was a wind tunnel project officer at Lockheed Corporation and earned her master’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Susan and her husband, retired SEAL Vice Admiral Colin Kilrain are raising their four children in Virginia. She is a consultant and motivational speaker, specializing in encouraging young women and underprivileged teens to excel in STEM careers. She has been a board member for private companies, universities, and non-profits, and is currently a Venture Partner with New North Ventures.
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Why do people come to work at your organization? What is personal vested interest (PVI) and do you know the PVI of those you lead? In this episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast, Chad Brown and I discuss organizational leadership to include culture, ego, fulfillment on and off the job, and how your priorities are where you spend your time and money. Chad Brown is a leadership engagement expert. He coaches executives and entrepreneurs in the art and science of leadership for themselves, their teams, and clients to create new, unprecedented results and experience fulfillment in their work.
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What is hyperbaric oxygen and what can this medicinal treatment do for you? In this episode, Cara Mae Melton and I discuss the use of hyperbaric oxygen to heal wounds, reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even counter the effects of aging. Cara Mae Melton is a dynamic executive who has been applying expertise in business oversight, operations and development over the last 18 years for early stage and start up organizations. She is an innovator and entrepreneur focused on solving consumer and business problems through the creation and delivery of inventive products and solutions.
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Does seeing more clearly help you be a better leader? In this episode, Dr. Alison Tendler discusses her upbringing in South Dakota, experience in medical school, and what it is like to lead her team of 14 people. I called her green eyes blue. You may remember Dr. Tendler from the Restasis eye drop commercials that ran from 2008-2015 or so, with her striking green eyes, which I called blue during our face-to-face discussion. She let me off easy. Alison's story is an inspiration to young ladies who are considering a career as a Medical Doctor as well as medical professionals or anyone considering leaving the comfort of a large organization to start their own business.
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