Episodios

  • 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24 - Leadership on and Off the Mat

    2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24 - Leadership on and Off the Mat
    Apr 15 2025
    A view of leadership and character development through the eyes and actions of a world-class athlete. SUMMARY For NCAA Division I heavyweight wrestling champion and newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24, what happens on the mat informs how he manages conflict, planning, strategy and tactics, and most importantly, his development as a leader. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK WYATT'S TAKEAWAYS - Wyatt's journey exemplifies leadership and perseverance. - The Air Force Academy provided a strong foundation for Wyatt. - Pivotal moments can change the trajectory of one's life. - Tattoos can tell a personal story and hold deep meaning. - Winning the NCAA title was a culmination of hard work and strategy. - Mindset and planning are crucial in wrestling and leadership. - Family support plays a significant role in personal success. - Mastering the basics is essential for excellence in any field. - Call signs reflect identity and values in the military. - God's plan often unfolds in unexpected ways. Adversity can lead to personal growth and resilience. - Mental strength is crucial in competitive sports. - Reaching out for help is essential for overcoming challenges. - Building a strong foundation in skills is vital for success. - Wrestling teaches valuable life lessons about failure and perseverance. - Enjoying the journey is as important as achieving goals. - Hard work is the only path to success; there are no shortcuts. - Self-motivation is key to personal and professional growth. - Doing little things right builds good habits and character. - Faith and gratitude play a significant role in success. CHAPTERS 00:00: Introduction to Leadership and Perseverance 02:07: The Journey to the Air Force Academy 05:56: Defining Moments and Personal Growth 09:57: Tattoos and Their Significance 14:03: The NCAA Championship Experience 18:03: Mindset and Training in Wrestling 22:05: Call Signs and Identity 26:00: Family Background and Support 27:06: Overcoming Adversity in Wrestling 30:40: The Mental Game of Wrestling 35:15: Building a Strong Foundation 38:01: Lessons from Wrestling and Military 40:34: Training for the 2028 Olympics 42:08: Finding Joy in the Journey 44:42: Navigating Sponsorships and NIL 47:03: The Importance of Doing Little Things Right 50:48: Self-Motivation and Purpose 54:02: Closing Thoughts and Gratitude ABOUT WYATT HENDRICKSON BIO 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24 is a wrestler known for his remarkable collegiate career and service in the United States Air Force. He gained national attention in 2025 by winning the NCAA heavyweight championship, defeating Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson in a dramatic upset. Early Life and High School Career Hendrickson comes from Newton, Kansas, and is the son of Todd and Lynnette Hendrickson. At Newton High School, he was a standout wrestler, becoming a two-time Kansas state champion and a three-time finalist. He earned All-American honors in freestyle, Greco-Roman, and folkstyle wrestling, and won national titles at the NHSCA Senior Nationals and FloNationals. Collegiate Wrestling Career Air Force Academy Initially hesitant about a military path, Wyatt was persuaded by his father to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. There, he became one of the most dominant heavyweight wrestlers in NCAA history. He was a five-time NCAA qualifier, two-time Big 12 champion, and two-time NCAA All-American, finishing third nationally in both 2023 and 2024. He led the nation in pins for three consecutive seasons and was twice named the NCAA Most Dominant Wrestler. He concluded his Air Force career with a 103–11 record, becoming the program’s all-time leader in pins.​ Oklahoma State University Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wyatt had an extra year of eligibility. As a member of the Air Force’s World Class Athlete Program, he was allowed to delay active-duty service to pursue Olympic training. This enabled him to transfer to Oklahoma State University for the 2024–25 season. Fulfilling a childhood dream, he joined the Cowboys and went undefeated (27–0), culminating in his victory over Gable Steveson in the NCAA finals. Personal Life and Military Service Wyatt holds the rank of second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and is pursuing an MBA at Oklahoma State University. His unique journey from a small-town Kansas wrestler to NCAA champion and military officer exemplifies dedication and perseverance.​ MORE ON WYATT HERE: CONNECT WITH WYATT INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN ALL PAST LBL EPISODES | ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS: Guest, 2nd. Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24 | Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99 KEYWORDS Leadership, perseverance, Air Force Academy, wrestling, NCAA champion, personal growth, mindset, tattoos, family support, call signs, wrestling, ...
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    53 m
  • Jake DeRuyter ’15 - A Leader's Ups and Downs

    Jake DeRuyter ’15 - A Leader's Ups and Downs
    Apr 1 2025
    Jake DeRuyter, a 2015 Air Force Academy graduate, shares a compelling leadership journey marked by unexpected challenges and resilient adaptation. ----more---- SUMMARY Initially aspiring to be a pilot, Jake faced a critical moment when back surgery disqualified him from his dream career, forcing him to quickly choose a new Air Force Specialty Code within just one hour. Despite the uncertainty, he remained calm and strategic, ultimately transitioning to intelligence and then to an ROTC instructor role. His leadership philosophy emerged from these experiences: staying flexible, maintaining a strong network, and focusing on developing others rather than just personal advancement. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK JAKE'S LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS - Always be willing to adapt and stay resilient when unexpected challenges arise, like Jake did when he couldn't become a pilot and had to quickly choose a new career path. - Build and maintain a strong network of connections, as these relationships can help you navigate career transitions and provide support. - Focus on developing the people around you, not just your own career advancement. A great leader lifts up their team and helps others grow. - Stay proactive in reaching out to people, checking in, and genuinely listening to their stories and experiences. - Be willing to take risks on talented individuals, especially those from similar backgrounds or networks, like how Jake was given an opportunity by fellow graduates. - Maintain a competitive spirit and drive, but channel it into continuous self-improvement and supporting others. - Give back to your community, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or leading local chapters and organizations. - Be prepared to put in consistent daily effort, understanding that success comes from habits and persistent hard work. - Stay open to unexpected opportunities and be willing to pivot when your initial career path doesn't work out. - Prioritize relationships and connections over individual achievements, recognizing that your success is often measured by the people you've helped develop. JAKE'S TOP 5 LEADERSHIP LESSONS Here are the 5 best leadership lessons from Jake DeRuyter's interview: Build Others Up, Not Just Yourself Jake emphasized that true leadership is about developing the people around you. As he said, "Don't just worry about your own career and life" - great leaders are judged by the success of those they mentor and support. Stay Adaptable and Resilient When Jake's pilot career was unexpectedly derailed, he demonstrated the critical leadership skill of staying calm under pressure and quickly pivoting. He chose to focus on what he could control rather than getting stuck on what he couldn't change. Maintain Genuine Connections Jake consistently stressed the importance of reaching out, checking in with people, and truly listening. He makes time to connect with classmates, colleagues, and fellow graduates, understanding that relationships are the foundation of effective leadership. Take Calculated Risks and Support Others Jake's career trajectory shows the importance of being willing to take risks - both for yourself and for others. He was given a chance by fellow graduates and now pays it forward by helping other transitioning military members. Give Back Consistently Leadership isn't just about personal achievement, but about contributing to your community. Jake exemplifies this through his role as chapter president, mentoring cadets, and always being available to help fellow Air Force Academy graduates. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Journeys 05:31 Navigating Life's Crossroads 12:01 The Role of Mentorship and Family 17:31 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 20:48 Motivation and Personal Drive 22:02 The Daily Grind: A Shift in Focus 24:31 Building Community: Chapter Leadership 27:29 Challenges of Leadership and Engagement 29:00 Giving Back: The Importance of Community 31:12 Leadership Lessons: Daily Practices 32:53 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 34:25 Reflections on Involvement and Connection 36:40 Final Thoughts and Gratitude ABOUT JAKE BIO As a 2015 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Jake spent six years on active duty serving as an Intel Officer and ROTC Instructor. Having left the service, he now am an Account Executive on the Air Force team at IMPRES Technology Solutions providing active duty units with the tech they need to accomplish the mission. - Copy courtesy of Jake DeRuyter and LinkedIn CONNECT WITH JAKE LINKEDIN | ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES - CENTRAL TEXAS CHAPTER ALL PAST LBL EPISODES | ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS GUEST, JAKE DERUYTER ’15 | HOST, LT. COL. (RET.) NAVIERE WALKEWICZ ’99 Naviere Walkewicz 00:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership ...
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    38 m
  • Christian Evans ’08 - A Leader's Exceptional Spirit

    Christian Evans ’08 - A Leader's Exceptional Spirit
    Mar 18 2025
    In this episode of Long Blue Leadership, Christian Evans shares his journey from a jovial cadet to a dedicated leader focused on uplifting others. SUMMARY Christian reflects on transformative experiences during his time at the Air Force Academy, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of community engagement. Christian discusses navigating career transitions, the power of giving back, and the significance of leading with love. He emphasizes resilience, personal growth, and the need to engage the next generation of leaders. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK TAKEAWAYS Christian emphasizes the importance of humor in leadership.Transformative experiences can lead to personal growth and leadership development.Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding younger generations.Navigating career transitions requires building a supportive network.Giving back to the community enhances personal fulfillment.Engaging the next generation is vital for sustaining leadership values.Resilience is key to overcoming failures and learning from them.Leading with love fosters a supportive environment.Personal growth is a continuous journey influenced by experiences.Finding avenues to contribute to the community is essential for leadership. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Journeys 02:56 Transformative Experiences in Cadet Life 06:10 The Impact of Mentorship and Community 08:52 Navigating Career Transitions 11:49 The Power of Giving Back 14:50 Engaging the Next Generation 17:55 Lessons in Resilience and Growth 21:00 Leading with Love 23:55 Reflections on Personal Growth 26:59 Conclusion and Future Aspirations ABOUT CHRISTIAN EVANS BIO Christian Evans is a Business Development Executive at Olsson where he leads sales and growth efforts in Texas and Colorado. Christian previously worked as Managing Partner of Greenwood Capital lower middle market PE firm, Wealth Advisor at Morgan Stanley, Capital Markets Sales Manager at Highland Capital Management. Prior to joining Highland, he worked as an associate on the Banking, Investing, and Lending team at Goldman Sachs. Christian started his professional career in the United States Air Force as a space operations officer at Cape Cod AFS, MA and an acquisitions program manager at the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles AFB, CA. Christian is an active leader in the Dallas community sitting on the Visiting Nurses Association of Texas Board of Directors on the finance and development committees and on the Friends Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy on the Development committee. Christian is an active member of the Urban Land Institute and The Real Estate Council. Christian is a 2008 Graduate of the United States Air Force Academy where he majored in Management. As a Cadet, he competed on the Fighting Falcon football team, served as President of the Tuskegee Airmen Club, and became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Incorporated. He completed his MBA at the SMU Cox School of Business in 2017. Christian is married to Dr. Candace Evans and they enjoy their time with their son, Cash. - Copy courtesy of the U.S. Air Force Academy Association of Graduates CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN LINKEDIN | ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES ALL PAST LBL EPISODES | ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Guest: CHRISTIAN EVANS ’08 | Host: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99 Naviere Walkewicz 00:00 Welcome to Long Blue Leadership, the podcast where we share insights on leadership through the lives and experiences of Air Force Academy graduates. I'm Naviere Walkewicz, Class of ’99. For Christian Evans, USAFA Class of 2008, the journey was arduous, and even now, though he's dedicated himself to a life of lifting others up, he still thinks of himself as a work in progress, becoming the model for grace, giving back and leadership that he is today. Christian, thanks for being here today. Christian Evans 00:28 Thank you so much for having me. Truly honored and flattered to be here. Naviere Walkewicz 00:34 What were you like growing up? — I guess maybe is the first question. Christian Evans 00:38 I've always been a jovial person. I've always had a sense of humor, and I've always kind of been a strategic thinker, if that makes sense. So, while I was somewhat the life of the party to a certain extent, or someone on the team that would galvanize the teammates, it was mostly through humor or engaging outside of anything serious, because everything's so serious, right? Naviere Walkewicz Right. Christian Evans So, growing up and even at the Academy, I always kind of used humor as a way to put myself out there, so to speak, right? To kind of get people's moods to calm down. Yeah, I just always was more focused on what I was doing, and never focused on “I should be leading in this space,” outside of just knowing if you do well in school, get ...
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    29 m
  • NCLS Special Coverage - Sullenberger Award for Courage

    NCLS Special Coverage - Sullenberger Award for Courage
    Mar 13 2025

    The Association of Graduates and Air Force Academy Foundation just dropped a special episode of Long Blue Leadership, featuring our continuing coverage of the 32nd National Character and Leadership Symposium. ----more----

    Bryan Grossman, senior director of strategic communications and managing editor of Checkpoints magazine, speaks with this year’s Sullenberger Award for Courage recipients. “Atomic,” “Batman,” “Guns,” and “Royal” helped stave off an arial assault on an allied nation. Listen to their stories on any of your favorite podcast apps and watch for more additional coverage in your March Checkpoints.

    (L-R) OUR GUESTS FOR THIS SPECIAL EDITION OF LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP

    Capt. Kyle "Royal" Abraham, USAFA ’19 Capt. Logan "Batman" Cowan, USAFA ‘18 Capt. Carla "Guns" Nava, USAFA ’18 Claire "Atomic" Eddins, USAFA ’18 "...All (four of these) warfighter graduates distinguished themselves in what has been called the largest air-to-air engagement in over 50 years when they helped turn away Iran’s April 2024 attack against Israel. Their extraordinary airmanship contributed greatly to preserving regional stability, protecting Coalition forces, and saving countless civilian lives."

    Copy Credit: USAFA Superintendent's Office

    CHECKPOINTS ONLINE

    ACCESS THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OF CHECKPOINTS - REQUIRES SIGN-IN

    THE LONG BLUE LINE PODCAST NETWORK TEMPORARY STUDIO CADET HONORS CONFERENCE ROOM, POLARIS HALL

    VIEW THE FULL NCLS 2025 SPEAKER AND PRESENTER PLAYLIST

    The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation
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    43 m
  • NCLS 2025 - Warfighters to Win Special Coverage

    NCLS 2025 - Warfighters to Win Special Coverage
    Mar 4 2025

    In this special episode of Long Blue Leadership, we present our Long Blue Line Podcast Network coverage of National Character and Leadership Symposium 2025. ----more----

    SUMMARY

    The theme for this year’s symposium was “Warfighters to Win.” Cadets heard from leaders who model the warrior spirit of our Air Force and Space Force. Host, Ted Robertson, Multimedia and Podcast Specialist for the Air Force Academy Association of Graduates and Foundation, spoke with organizers, speakers, and panelists who came to NCLS from all across the military and academia.

    OUR GUESTS FOR THIS EPISODE

    SEGMENT 1 Topic: a look inside CCLD, the annual production of NCLS, and a preview of who is guesting in this podcast.

    Ms. Danielle Brines NCLS Program Director Dr. Michele Johnson NCLS Speaker Engagement Team Lead

    SEGMENT 2 Topic: the thinking behind NCLS and how the Academy and cadets benefit and gain from the event and year-round programs.

    Dr. Doug Lindsay ’92 Executive Editor, Journal of Character and Leadership Development Author, In Your Moment: Mastering Your Leadership Thresholds

    SEGMENT 3 Topic: Sharing their journeys to careers in support of Strike Eagle Squadrons.

    1st Lt. Gabrielle "DARE" Sutedjo ’21 Intelligence Analyst for the 4th Fighter Wing, Seymour Johnson AFB supporting four Strike Eagle squadrons.

    Capt. Joel Zamot ’18 Lead Weapons Systems Officer, 335th Fighter Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB supporting four Strike Eagle squadrons.

    SEGMENT 4 Topic: Task Force Hope: Crisis Leadership and Moral Injury Recovery. Task Force (TF) Hope equips participants with the tools to face adversity head-on, lead decisively through crisis, and recover with resilience from the lasting weight of moral injuries. Forged in the crucible of operational challenges, it embodies 14 years of relentless refinement, evolving from a 2010 Squadron Officer School (SOS) paper into a powerful SOS elective and further sharpened by the innovative rigor of the 2020 SOS Think Tank. Tested and validated by over 2,000 Air Force captains, three academic years of Air War College students and faculty, the 55th Operations Group Global Squadron Command Summit, and multiple Air Force, Army, and USSOF units, TF Hope empowers leaders to master their craft, make bold decisions amidst uncertainty, and outpace the chaos of crisis. The resounding feedback from participants underscores its impact: “Why didn’t I hear this earlier in my career?”

    Col. Jonathan Sawtelle Founder of Task Force Hope Air Force Weather Career Field Manager at Headquarters Air Force, the Pentagon, Washington D.C.

    Lt. Col. Brandon Murphy ’07 Director of Operations for the 306th Operations Support Squadron at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

    Maj. Tara Holmes Chief of Cadet Development at the Center for Character and Leadership Development at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

    SEGMENT 5

    Dr. John Torres ’82 Topic: "No Excuses." Dr. John Torres is a self-described “Air Force brat” who graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1982. His 32-year military career in the Air Force included active duty as a C-130 Hercules pilot and service in the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve as a flight surgeon. His military service also included a tour of duty in Iraq in 2004, as well as rescue missions at the South Pole and in response to Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita. Leveraging his combined medical and military experience, Torres helped establish training courses for NATO Special Forces soldiers to ensure a high level of consistency across various nations, languages and cultures.

    SEGMENT 6 Topic: Preview of our interview with the four winners of the Capt. Sullenberger Award for Courage. The podcast was hosted by Bryan Grossman, Association of Graduates and Foundation Senior Director of Communications. Publication is set for March 13-16, 2025. Capt. Claire Eddins, USAFA ’18 Capt. Carla Nava, USAFA ’18 Capt. Logan Cowan, USAFA ‘18 Capt. Kyle Abraham, USAFA ’19, All warfighter graduates distinguished themselves in what has been called the largest air-to-air engagement in over 50 years when they helped turn away Iran’s April 2024 attack against Israel. Their extraordinary airmanship contributed greatly to preserving regional stability, protecting Coalition forces, and saving countless civilian lives."

    Copy Credit: USAFA Superintendent's Office

    VIEW THE FULL VIDEO PLAYLIST OF ALL SPEAKERS AND PRESENTERS

    The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation
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    47 m
  • Dr. Heather Wilson ’82 - Integrity, Service and Excellence for Leaders

    Dr. Heather Wilson ’82 - Integrity, Service and Excellence for Leaders
    Feb 18 2025
    Dr. Heather Wilson, a 1982 Air Force Academy graduate, formerly the 24th Secretary of the Air Force, and first USAFA graduate to hold the position, discusses her unexpected journey to the role, emphasizing the importance of integrity, service, and leadership. ----more---- SUMMARY Dr. Wilson shares her unexpected journey into leadership, the importance of integrity, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. She reflects on her family legacy, the influence of mentors, and how her military background shaped her leadership style. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the value of collecting tools for leadership and adapting to different environments while maintaining core values. In this conversation, she discusses the importance of finding purpose in one's mission and the value of relationships, particularly family support. She reflects on her journey as a woman in leadership, the significance of legacy in public service, and her unexpected path to serving in Congress. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the lessons learned in collaboration and the importance of humor in leadership, ultimately encouraging future leaders to uphold high standards and not to shame their families. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK TAKEAWAYS Dr. Wilson's journey to becoming Secretary of the Air Force was unexpected and transformative.Leadership often requires owning failures and focusing on solutions.Integrity is foundational to effective leadership and builds trust.Adapting leadership styles to different cultures is essential for success.Mentorship and influences from family play a significant role in shaping leaders.Collecting tools and knowledge is crucial for effective leadership.Quality management principles can be applied to various fields, including education and social services.Leadership is not linear; it involves navigating different paths and chapters.Building strong teams and hiring the right people is vital for organizational success.Direct communication and honesty are key components of effective leadership. Doing things that matter with people you like is essential.The most important decision in life can be personal, like choosing a partner.Family support enriches life and provides joy.Women in leadership often face unique challenges but can pave the way for others.Legacy is about making lasting changes in systems and strategies.Unexpected opportunities can lead to significant career changes.Collaboration and giving credit to others is key in leadership roles.Humor can help create a relaxed atmosphere in serious environments.Education is crucial for transforming lives and communities.Leadership is not always a straight path; adaptability is important. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Long Blue Leadership 01:25 Unexpected Call to Leadership 03:16 Lessons from Leadership Challenges 08:28 The Importance of Integrity 10:07 Adapting Leadership Styles 12:23 Influences and Mentorship 15:25 Family Legacy and Influence 17:41 Learning from Team Members 21:29 Applying Quality Management Principles 24:07 Navigating Non-Linear Leadership Paths 24:20 Finding Purpose in Mission and Relationships 28:06 The Importance of Family Support 30:08 Navigating Leadership as a Woman 34:30 Legacy and Impact in Public Service 36:29 Unexpected Paths: Serving in Congress 41:03 Lessons in Collaboration and Leadership ABOUT DR. WILSON - IMAGES AND BIO COURTESY OF UTEP BIO Dr. Heather Wilson became the 11th President of The University of Texas at El Paso in 2019 after serving as Secretary of the United States Air Force. She is the former president of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, and she represented New Mexico in the United States Congress for 10 years. Active in community and national affairs, she is a member of the National Science Board, which oversees the National Science Foundation, and serves as a board member of the Texas Space Commission. She was the inaugural Chair of the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities, and is a member of the board of directors of Lockheed Martin Corporation. Dr. Wilson is the granddaughter of immigrants and was the first person in her family to go to college. She graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in the third class to admit women and earned her master’s and doctoral degrees from Oxford University in England as a Rhodes Scholar. UTEP is located on the U.S.-Mexico border – in the fifth largest manufacturing region in North America – and serves over 24,000 students with 170 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs in nine colleges and schools. In the top 5% of public universities in the United States for research and designated a community-engaged university by the Carnegie Foundation, UTEP is America’s leading Hispanic-serving university. It is the fourth largest research university in Texas and serves a student body that is 84% Hispanic. President Wilson is an instrument rated private pilot. She and her ...
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    42 m
  • UNSCRIPTED LIVES: A Long Blue Leadership Retrospective

    UNSCRIPTED LIVES: A Long Blue Leadership Retrospective
    Jan 7 2025
    In this episode of Long Blue Leadership, Co-Hosts Naviere Walkewicz and Wyatt Hornsby reflect on the leadership lessons shared by accomplished graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy over the first two seasons. SUMMARY The hosts highlight key moments and insights from various guests, emphasizing the importance of personal connections, resilience, and the role of mentorship in leadership. They discuss the unique experiences of leaders like Coach Troy Calhoun, Brigadier General Gavin P. Marks, Nicole Malachowski, Madison Marsh, Lieutenant General BJ Schwedo, and Carl Falk, showcasing how their journeys can inspire others in their leadership paths. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK TAKEAWAYS - Leadership is deeply personal and requires understanding your people. - The importance of resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. - Mentorship plays a crucial role in developing future leaders. - Building relationships is essential in leadership roles. - Knowing your craft enhances credibility and effectiveness as a leader. - Leadership is about doing good and positively impacting others' lives. - Embracing vulnerability can lead to personal and professional growth. - It's important to risk failure in pursuit of big dreams. - Support from family and mentors can shape one's career trajectory. - Leaders should encourage others to pursue their passions and dreams. CHAPTERS 00:00 Celebrating Leadership Lessons from the Air Force Academy 02:11 Highlighting Coach Troy Calhoun's Leadership Philosophy 08:09 Insights from Brigadier General Gavin P. Marks 12:59 Nicole Malachowski: Overcoming Setbacks and Embracing Dreams 19:09 Madison Marsh: A Journey of Resilience and Purpose 23:27 Lessons from Lieutenant General BJ Schwedo on Future Conflict 28:23 Karl Falk: The Importance of Support and Grit in Leadership ABOUT THE HOSTS BIOS LT. COL. (RET.) NAVIERE WALKEWICZ ’99 Senior Vice President, Engagement With over two decades in leadership roles, my current focus at the Association of Graduates - U.S. Air Force Academy is fostering a robust network of 50,000+ alumni. This commitment involves igniting a culture of engagement and inclusivity, underpinned by a strong foundation in support of our Air Force Academy. - BIO COPY CREDIT: LINKEDIN.COM MR. WYATT HORNSBY Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications | Executive Editor & Writer Wyatt Hornsby is passionate about developing marketing and communications talent and cohesive, high-performance teams. He is senior vice president of marketing and communications at the Air Force Academy Foundation and the Association of Graduates. He leads the work of the foundation and alumni association marketing and communications division, while also coordinating with various Air Force Academy offices, including Public Affairs and Strategic Communications. - BIO COPY CREDIT: LINKEDIN.COM ALL PAST LBL EPISODES | ALL LBLPN PRODUCTIONS AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR PODCAST PLATFORMS CONNECT WITH THE LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP PODCAST NETWORK TEAM Send your feedback or nominate a guest at: socialmedia@usafa.org TED ROBERTSON: Ted.Robertson@USAFA.org Multimedia and Podcast Specialist | LBL Podcast Network Producer and Editor RYAN HALL: Ryan.Hall@USAFA.org Assistant Director of Multimedia Production | LBL Podcast Network Director BRYAN GROSSMAN: Bryan.Grossman@USAFA.org Senior Director of Strategic Communications and Publications | LBL Podcast Network Copy Editor WYATT HORNSBY: Wyatt.Hornsby@USAFA.org Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications | Executive Editor & Writer | LBL Podcast Network Executive Producer FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Co-Hosts: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99 | Mr. Wyatt Hornsby Guests: Coach Troy Calhoun ’89; Brig. Gen. Gavin P. Marks ’96; Col. (Ret.) Nicole Malachowski ’96; 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh ’23; Gen. BJ Schwedo ’87; Mr. Karl Falk ’98, Mr. Ted Robertson Naviere Walkewicz 00:20 Welcome to our Long Blue Leadership retrospective. We're celebrating our first two seasons and the countless leadership lessons shared by some of the most accomplished United States Air Force Academy graduates. Wyatt Hornsby 00:31 Naviere, seasons 1 and 2 have showcased amazing leadership stories and takeaways. From the very start, Long Blue Leadership has given listeners an inside look at real experiences, insights and advice from seasoned leaders, as well as those just beginning their leadership journeys. These deep dives have explored how leaders not only face challenges head-on but also find ways to inspire and empower those around them. Naviere Walkewicz 00:58 Yes, what really sets this podcast apart is the mix of our guests’ perspectives on leadership. These discussions have touched on teamwork, perseverance, humility, excellence and service before self. Wyatt Hornsby 01:12 In this edition of Long Blue Leadership, we're sharing a few of our favorite moments. ...
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    42 m
  • Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Burt Field ’79 - 5 Values for Leaders

    Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Burt Field ’79 - 5 Values for Leaders
    Dec 10 2024
    In Episode 10 of Long Blue Leadership, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Burt Field ’79, now president and CEO of the Air & Space Forces Association, discusses his leadership philosophy, and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, effective communication, family, and the five core values by which he lives. Listen now! SUMMARY Burt Field, a retired Lieutenant General and CEO of the Air and Space Forces Association, discussed his career and leadership philosophy. He highlighted his upbringing as an Air Force brat, his academic journey at the Air Force Academy, and his early leadership roles. Field emphasized the importance of continuous learning, effective communication, and avoiding being an "asshole" in leadership. He shared impactful experiences, such as leading during the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, and the significance of family support. Field also discussed the Air and Space Forces Association's efforts in advocacy, education, and family resilience, stressing the need for strong national security and defense. LEADERSHIP BITES Values-Driven Leadership: Burt shared his 5 core leadership values - integrity, fortitude, excellence, teamwork, and service. Defining your values and using them to guide your decisions and actions is crucial.Continuous Learning: Burt emphasized that as a leader, you can never stop learning, whether it's about your organization, industry, or even topics outside your expertise. Staying curious and open to growth is key.Empowering Others: Burt stressed that a leader's job is to empower and inspire their team, not try to do everything themselves. Recognizing and rewarding excellence in others is vital.Effective Communication: Burt noted that leaders can never communicate too much or well enough. Repeatedly delivering clear, consistent messages is essential for alignment and buy-in.Humility and Inclusivity: True leadership requires humility, giving credit to others, and making the organization successful. SHARE THIS EPISODE LINKEDIN | FACEBOOK TAKEAWAYS Never stop learning. As a leader, you must continuously learn and expand your knowledge, even in areas outside your expertise.Define your leadership philosophy and values. Burt shared his 5 core values of integrity, fortitude, excellence, teamwork, and service. Having a clear set of guiding principles is crucial.Recognize and reward excellence. Identify and empower those who have put in the hard work to become experts in their fields. This builds a strong, capable team.Communicate effectively, repeatedly. Effective communication is critical, but leaders often underestimate how many times a message needs to be delivered clearly.Burt emphasized the importance of being inclusive, giving credit, and making the organization successful rather than yourself. Avoid toxic, self-serving leadership. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to General Burt Field 01:52 Growing Up as an Air Force Brat 05:40 Choosing the Air Force Academy 10:26 Life as a Cadet at the Academy 19:09 Leadership Development During Cadet Years 23:15 The Integration of Women at the Academy 24:12 Influential Leaders in General Field's Career 28:28 Learning from Subordinates 34:15 Career Path and Leadership Philosophy 37:54 A Chance Encounter: Love and Military Life 41:13 Building Resilient Families in the Military 42:12 The Journey to Leadership: From Air Force to AFA 45:57 Empowering the Next Generation: Education and STEM 49:46 Leadership Lessons: Insights from Experience 5 FRANK KEYS TO LEADERSHIP SUCCESS "You can never stop learning. You have to learn. And whether it's leadership or anything else, you have to always learn.""Everything comes from your values. When I make leadership decisions, or when I look at how we're going to move forward, or what, how we're going to accomplish the mission, it should reflect those values in my decisions, how I act, how I from the biggest thing of creating a here's the strategy, or in objectives on on what we're going to accomplish, to the smallest things, like how I conduct a meeting.""If you want to be a really good leader, you need to be really good at something. So you got to put in the work when you're young to be really good and understand how hard it is to be really good at something.""You cannot communicate enough, and you cannot communicate well enough. So I use this example all the time. I come up with a message. I craft it, I think about it, I write it down, I practice it, and then I deliver it, and it's awesome. I was perfect. I nobody could have misunderstood me when I'm done with that, and I really think that I have hit the mark with maybe 20% I probably got to say that again, that way or differently, about another 10 or 15 times when I can barely stand to hear myself talk anymore, and I'm still not going to get everybody.""I'm going to give the credit and I'm going to take the blame. That's how you become a good leader." - Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Burt Field ’79, October 2024 ABOUT GEN. FIELD BIO Lt. Gen. ...
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