In this powerful episode of Frontline Voices, Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew shares the realities of community policing, leadership under crisis, and the long road to building trust. From the heartbreaking response to a school shooting to managing protests after George Floyd’s death, Chief Drew reflects on lessons learned, the role of youth engagement, and the urgent need for collective responsibility. His approach reminds us that real public safety isn't built overnight, it’s earned block by block, conversation by conversation. This episode is a masterclass in service, empathy, and resilient leadership.

Recorded on April 14, 2025.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Chief Steve Drew is the Chief of Police for Newport News, Virginia, with over 30 years of law enforcement experience. Known for his deep commitment to community policing, youth engagement, and building trust through service, Chief Drew has led the Newport News Police Department through major challenges, including national crises and critical incidents. His leadership philosophy centers on empathy, partnership, and proactive community involvement, believing that true public safety starts with strong relationships.

In this powerful and personal episode of Frontline Voices, IRON Mike Steadman sits down with Matthew Brown, Navy veteran and founder of Chimney Trail Health, to talk about the often invisible battle veterans and high performers face: mental health. They unpack the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the hidden costs of unresolved trauma, and the real-world impact of suicide in their communities. Mike shares a vulnerable story about personal loss and how it pushed him to seek help. Together, they discuss how to reframe thoughts, find sparring partners for the mind, and train like your life depends on it, because sometimes it does. Whether you’re a veteran, an entrepreneur, or someone struggling silently, this episode is a lifeline.

Recorded on April 8, 2025.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Matthew Brown is the president and CEO of Chimney Trail, a mental health organization focused on preventing anxiety, depression, and suicide through cognitive behavioral therapy. A 2005 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, he served in key operational and strategic roles across the Navy, including command of the USS Scout. His military service and leadership experiences inspired the creation of Chimney Trail, now a trusted resource for the Department of Defense and Fortune 500 companies. He lives in Colorado with his wife and three daughters.

RELATED SOURCES:

• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
• Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam
• Website: Bowling Alone

FOLLOW THE GUEST ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

• LinkedIn: Matthew Brown

In this inaugural episode of Frontline Voices, host “IRON” Mike Steadman is joined by fellow Hoover Veteran Fellow alumnus Greg Eason. Mike opens up about his journey from growing up in a single-parent household, to becoming a Marine Corps officer, entrepreneur, and community leader. Together, they explore the idea of “normalizing excellence,” how their lived experiences shaped their outlook, and what it means to be a change-maker today. They also discuss the power of mentorship, faith, and resilience in overcoming adversity. This episode sets the stage for future conversations with veterans leading impactful work across the country.

Recorded on March 11, 2025.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Gregory Eason is a real estate developer and investor focused on delivering high-quality housing experiences in emerging and underserved markets. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a degree in quantitative economics, he served as a gunnery and training officer in the Navy before transitioning out of the military and into real estate. He currently leads a build-to-rent project in Atlanta, and is an angel investor in a 185-acre development in North Augusta, Georgia. As a Veteran Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Greg explored innovative housing solutions and the intersection of economic mobility, faith, and community investment.

RELATED SOURCES:

• The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy
• The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
• Jim Collins' Stockdale Paradox Concept

FOLLOW THE GUEST ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

• Gregory Eason on LinkedIn