Strip away the urgency.Remove the spotlight.Kill the momentum.
What survives?
In this episode, I reconnect with former teammates who saw me operate at full throttle inside a high-demand plant environment. They saw the intensity. They saw the cracks. And they’re still here.
We talk about:

• Performative intensity vs. real credibility
• How collapse reveals your default actions
• Why quiet seasons feel threatening
• The difference between confusion and decision

⠀If you go backwards after a realization like this, it isn’t confusion. It’s a choice.
This episode is about what remains when everything performative burns.

He shares what it means to raise a son with American values, what he’s learned from leading sailors, and how his time on the Navy football team shaped more than just his toughness — it shaped his legacy.

💬 Final question? “What is your Price of Admission?”
 
🎧 Tune in for a deeply human episode about the values worth living for.

In this powerful episode of Price of Admission, host Tony Haberer reconnects with John Stanikzai—an Afghan-born translator who risked everything during the war in Afghanistan and later became a proud American citizen.

John shares his remarkable journey:
➡️ From growing up in Kabul under conflict
➡️ To working as a combat interpreter for the U.S. Marine Corps
➡️ To legally immigrating and becoming a police officer in Washington State

Together, they unpack John’s views on:
🔹 The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan
🔹 What it really takes to earn U.S. citizenship
🔹 His legal immigration path
🔹 How faith, identity, and service shaped his second chance at life

This episode is a raw and inspiring story of sacrifice, resilience, and patriotism—and a reminder of why America still matters to those who choose it.

👉 Subscribe to the channel for more veteran voices, leadership stories, and life lessons from those who’ve paid the Price of Admission.

#ImmigrantStory #VeteranVoices #AmericanDream #AfghanistanToAmerica #LegalImmigration #ServiceAboveSelf #USCitizenship #PoliceStory #PriceOfAdmissionPodcast

How does giving up alcohol change your mindset? Your relationships? Your perspective on life? We dive deep into the habits we’ve broken, the lessons we’ve learned, and why this shift has been one of the most powerful moves we’ve ever made.

🔹 **Featuring:** Austin Milke, Corey Finnerty, and Matt Nechak

🔹 **Topics Covered:** Sobriety, personal growth, and leadership.

🔹 **Key Takeaway:** Winning in life is about discipline, not just motivation—on and off the field


Drop a comment below—what’s one habit you’ve changed that made a huge impact on your life? 👇

Jeremiah opens up about his struggles after military service, the breakthroughs he experienced through expanded consciousness, and how revisiting past traumas helped him move forward. He also reflects on the importance of having a trusted support system during his journey and how these experiences have reshaped his outlook on life, leadership, and self-discovery.

**Topics Covered:**
* Jeremiah’s path from enlisted Marine to Naval Academy graduate.
* How PTSD and addiction shaped his post-service struggles.
* The role of ibogaine and psychedelics in his healing process.
* Exploring expansive consciousness and revisiting past experiences.
* Jeremiah’s mission to help others through coaching, leadership, and advocacy.

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible and that resilience can emerge from life’s greatest challenges.

Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Through candid reflections, Jeremy opens up about his belief that "some of the best lessons we will learn come through suffering." He discusses his legal challenges, the role of faith and resilience in his life, and how he has transformed personal hardships into a mission of service and healing. This episode dives deep into leadership, personal growth, and the importance of listening during life’s most difficult moments.

Join us for a conversation that will challenge your perspective, inspire your journey, and redefine how you think about the price we pay for growth.

🎙️ Key Topics Include:

• The transformative power of suffering.
• Lessons learned from military service and advocacy.
• Balancing personal accountability with leading a nonprofit.
• Faith, family, and the pursuit of purpose.
• Jeremy’s "Price of Admission" and his advice to "hang tight and just listen."

⠀Tune in and discover how adversity can shape you into the person you’re meant to be.

Now a successful entrepreneur in dog training, Jared shares hard-earned lessons about resilience, humility, and the importance of asking for help. He reminds us that vulnerability is a strength and that isolation is the enemy of growth.

With humor, honesty, and faith, Jared dives into:
* Life after the Navy and rediscovering purpose.
* Breaking free from the stigma of mental health struggles.
* Why community and connection are essential for healing.
* The hilarious—and surprising—side of body hair management (trust us, it’s worth the listen!).

⠀If you’ve ever felt stuck, isolated, or unsure of your path, this episode is packed with experience and practical takeaways to inspire your own thing. #priceofadmission #podcast #military #transition #identity

We discuss:

• His transition from quarterback to A-back and the unforgettable moments of ‘Team Wins’.
• Life-saving experiences that highlight his courage and composure under pressure.
• Lessons from Marine Corps deployments, including eye-opening perspectives gained in Djibouti.
• The transition to civilian life and his career in medical device sales.
• How he balances the demands of his career with being a dedicated father of four and a youth sports coach.

Mike's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and brotherhood. Whether you're a fan of Navy Football, a veteran navigating life after service, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode delivers powerful insights and unforgettable stories.

- Known to many as Drew, he’s a STANDOUT… figure in the the Navy Football Brotherhood and a KEY… character in the renowned book "A Civil War" by John Feinstein…
- Drew’s story is not about what he accomplished on the field but MOST.. about… the profound impact he’s had as a leader, mentor, and friend.
  - So many examples of Servant leadership in this one.  There is no greater passion for Drew T. 
- Whether he’s connecting with teammates, guiding the next generation of leaders, or dedicating himself to his faith and family, 
- Drew is a living… example of what it means to EMBODY strength … and grace in ALL areas of this life. 
- Today, we HIT on the EXPERIENCES that shaped him, 
  - the relationships that defined him, 
  - and the lessons he carries as a man deeply committed to his earthly team and eternal purpose.

This episode touches on themes of resilience, sacrifice, and accountability, providing a lens into Shun's leadership philosophy and life lessons. We explore:

• Navigating Change: How Shun overcame career-defining decisions, like leaving behind NFL dreams for family and service.
• Lessons from the Field: The impact of mentorship, discipline, and a "team wins" mindset instilled by iconic coaches like Paul Johnson.
• The Power of Accountability: Insights on holding oneself and others to high standards, a critical topic in today's evolving leadership landscape.
• Work-Life Balance: Shun's journey in managing the demands of a high-stakes military career while staying true to himself and his family.

Shun’s reflections on authenticity, perseverance, and the price he’s paid to achieve his goals will resonate deeply with listeners striving to balance personal ambition and service to others. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that blends sports, service, and the human spirit.

- a guy who’s the definition of grit, heart, and HUSTLE. 

- Hailing from Garner, North Carolina, Kam’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. 

  - Spending many a night throwing a football through a tire, OVER…and OVER…at his local church 

- From slinging the rock, to shaping young lives as a coach, 

- now getting his hands dirty in construction, 

- he’s lived a life that’s anything but ordinary. 

- Along the way, he’s CAUGHT SOME EXCELLENCE and faced some tough calls—like transferring schools, riding the rollercoaster of coaching changes, and even pushing through a major surgery early in his career. 

- But through every challenge, Kam has leaned into brotherhood… found purpose within the grind, and showed what it means to truly pay the price. 

- This is a story about finding strength in struggle and building something meaningful, no matter what life throws at you. 

From the lessons learned in the locker room to the profound impact of faith, family, and community, Ray reflects on the powerful conviction: "Someone’s paid it for me." He dives into how this belief inspired him to pay it forward and leave a lasting legacy.

Get ready for stories of humble beginnings, a championship mindset built on hard work, and the incredible leadership that helped a “bunch of average guys getting after it” achieve more.

Whether you're a coach, mentor, or just someone looking to leave a positive mark, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a reminder that life’s best runs are often made possible by those who came before us.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Effort Will Beat Talent: Building a culture of perseverance.

Paying It Forward: How gratitude fuels leadership.

Faith, Family, and Legacy: Balancing priorities for an enhanced life.

Lessons from the Field: Leadership that inspires beyond the game.

👉 Don’t miss this conversation with a coaching legend whose story is as impactful as his leadership.

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring stories from the Price of Admission podcast!

• David’s role in Navy’s football dominance

• The Army-Navy rivalry and what makes these teams excel

• Insights into the leadership and teamwork that drive success

🔔 Subscribe for more stories of grit, sacrifice, and service!
#DavidMahoney #NavyFootball #ArmyNavyRivalry #PriceOfAdmission #Leadership #Teamwork #FootballPodcast #CommanderInChiefsTrophy #FourthTurning #Perseverance

Awareness of concussions in sports. Critical work being done. 
Both share personal stories - with Jake discussing his family’s NFL history and Chris reflecting on his wrestling career and brain health journey. 

We also touch on the new documentary about Tyler Sash – “Concussed: The American Dream.”

We explore his journey from being a standout on the gridiron to navigating life post-Academy. Emmett shares his experiences as a Surface Warfare Officer, where he gained invaluable leadership and operational skills while serving on ships. He also discusses his transition to civilian life, where he's taken on roles such as General Manager at Alto and Director of Operations at Deep Imaging, leveraging the discipline and resilience he honed during his time in the Navy.

Throughout our conversation, we dive into the lessons Emmett has learned about leadership, sacrifice, and perseverance. From managing teams and navigating challenges in his professional life to serving as a mentor and officer at the Naval Academy Preparatory School, Emmett’s story is one of relentless dedication.

Join us as we unpack his ‘Price of Admission'—a journey defined by brotherhood, grit, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

Highlights: 
Overcoming challenges at the Naval Academy and finding resilience
Serving as a Cryptologic Warfare Officer on four submarines
Transitioning from military service to a career in real estate
Founding Academy Insider, a non-profit supporting the USNA community
Juggling multiple roles, including real estate, non-profit leadership, and basketball officiating
The value of service, leadership, and giving back to others

A fellow 2010 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Michael has spent time in the intelligence community. Beyond his professional accolades, Michael is remembered by friends as a steadfast and generous individual, always fostering camaraderie and creating lasting memories, whether through his welcoming nature at an Army-Navy game or during adventurous summer trainings. His deep understanding of the cybersecurity landscape, coupled with his ability to connect with people on a personal level, has made him a respected figure both in his field and among his peers

Mike’s Price of Admission… guided by the concept of "Ikigai” - finding balance and purpose in what he loves, what he's good at, what the world needs, and what he can be paid for.

**Key Topics:**
* High school football memories and lessons
* Journey into the tech industry
* Excitement and concerns in AI and robotics
* The dual nature of AI: potential and risks
* The rapid pace of technological advancement
* The role of data and GPUs in AI development
* Competition among tech companies to build GPUs
* The importance of execution in AI development
* Microsoft: leading in the AI space
* Balancing work and family

He reflects on the impact of his wife, Lauren, on his life choices and the sacrifices made by military families. Mike shares his journey through basic training and AIT to become a medic. Mike Cole shares his experience in the Army and his journey to becoming a physician assistant. He talks about the challenges and opportunities he faced along the way, including the demanding nature of military training and the importance of mentorship. Mike also discusses his current role as a practicing PA and the balance he strives to maintain between his career and family.

Currently, he's in the Army's Integrated Physician Assistant Program (IPAP), aspiring to become an Army PA.  Tune in to dive into Michael's inspiring journey from chef to soldier.

Takeaways

• The support and influence of family members can shape life choices and provide guidance.
• Starting a business requires more than just skills in a specific field; it also involves marketing and advertising.
• Transitioning from civilian life to the military can be challenging, but learning to adapt and play the game is essential.
• Military moves can provide unique experiences for children but also come with sacrifices and challenges for parents.
• Finding a career path that aligns with personal passions and values is crucial for long-term fulfillment. The Army provides opportunities for young medics to advance their careers and continue practicing medicine.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional development.
• Finding a balance between career and family is a constant struggle, but it is important to prioritize both.
• The key to success is constantly striving to improve in all aspects of life.

Chris's background - in can manufacturing and filling industry for over 30 years and starting a business, First Op Seamer Service. Chris is creating a flexible and versatile support group that can get things done faster than that of a larger organization.  
We share memories and insights from time partnering together. The conversation highlights the importance of customer service, relationships, and a sense of urgency in the industry. 

Chris emphasizes the need for training and the challenges of starting a business. He also shares his fitness routine and the positive impact it has had on his life.  After hitting the Ironman, it became addicting for him. 

🛠️ What's Inside:

• From Startup to Growth: Chris shares fresh insights into the expansion of FirstOps Seamer Service and how his team's expertise continues to be the backbone of their success.
• Industry Trends: Dive into the latest trends impacting the beverage industry, including the surge in ready-to-drink products and the increasing preference for aluminum cans.
• Entrepreneurial Challenges: Discover how Chris navigates the common hurdles of cash flow management and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in the demanding startup environment.
• The Core of FirstOps: Integrity and results drive the mission at FirstOps Seamer Service. Learn how these values forge strong customer relationships and underpin every project they undertake.

👥 Key Takeaways:

• The critical role of a skilled team in delivering exceptional service.
• Insights into shifts within the beverage industry favoring convenience and sustainability.
• Strategies for balancing the rigorous demands of entrepreneurship with personal well-being.
• How maintaining core values like integrity can lead to lasting success in business.

💡 Join us as Chris elaborates on these topics, sharing valuable lessons and exciting updates that showcase the dynamic nature of the canning industry and entrepreneurship. Whether you're an industry professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply interested in the intersection of innovation and tradition, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

1st Op Seamer Service Website - https://firstopseamerservice.com/
1st Op Seamer Service Contact Info - admin@firstopseamerservice.com

Episode Key Highlights
* Balancing multiple roles and responsibilities is a challenge, but it can be a rewarding journey.
* Vulnerability and authenticity are important in building relationships and supporting others.
* Personal growth and learning are ongoing processes, and it's important to seek knowledge and develop new skills.
* Creating a safe space for others to be vulnerable and share their experiences can make a positive impact.
* Supporting marriages, parents, and families is crucial, and there is a need for resources and guidance in these areas. Nurture children's creativity and entrepreneurial spirit from a young age.
* Mentorship is invaluable in achieving success and personal growth.
* Have clarity on your goals and take the first step towards them.
* Leadership is about being respected and having a positive impact on others.
* Consistency is key in achieving long-term success.
* Learn from failures and keep the end goal in mind.
* Family and relationships should not be neglected in the pursuit of success.
* Leave a legacy as a great leader and a loving family member.

Takeaways
- Omar Nelson had a diverse career journey, from playing football at the Naval Academy to working in business development for an architecture firm.
- He served as a surface warfare officer, a color analyst for Navy football, and a healthcare representative for Pfizer Pharmaceuticals.
- Omar's transition out of the military was influenced by his desire to start a family and explore new opportunities.
- Working in radio and broadcasting helped him develop communication skills and grow as a person.
- He emphasizes the importance of being technically sound in your field and the ability to effectively communicate with different customers. Working in the support staff for Navy football provides opportunities to build relationships and create memorable experiences.
- Networking and positioning oneself are crucial for professional growth.
- Finding the balance between enjoying the journey of life and focusing on career development is a challenge.
- Having an open mind is essential to adapt and succeed in different environments.

Takeaways

• Balancing work and personal life is a challenge, but family should always be a priority.
• Learning from different perspectives and experiences helps develop a well-rounded perspective.
• Coaching is not just about teaching the sport, but also about mentoring and shaping young athletes.
• Transitions in career paths can lead to new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Memories of influential figures, such as Mr. G and coaches, can have a lasting impact.
• Compensating college athletes requires a delicate balance between fair compensation and maintaining the integrity of the sport.
• Listening to understand and being curious about others' perspectives can lead to meaningful conversations.
• Managing emotions and self-awareness are key to maintaining respect and empathy in discussions.
• Coaching can be a fulfilling and challenging role, requiring a balance of various responsibilities.

Jake just seems to seamless integrate his personal interests (like 3D printing) into professional ventures.  I loved learning EVEN MORE from him in this episode on the Price of Admission. 

An engineer in the manufacturing sector, unveils his journey of problem-solving, collaboration, and growth. He dives into his enthusiasm for 3D printing and his venture into a medical device startup during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Highlighting key elements of his career, Jake delves into leadership, teamwork, and the critical role of root cause analysis. He recounts a particular challenge with lemon concentrate, showcasing his problem-solving acumen. Balancing roles in work, family, and the Navy Reserve, he shares insights on boundary setting, team building, and the significance of on-the-ground training. Jake discusses the implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and continuous improvement practices, while also touching on personal challenges like time management and introversion. The conversation leads to the innovative development of a 3D-printed ventilator, emphasizing its potential impact in the developing world. Concluding, Jake reflects on the value of embracing difficult tasks and the transformative power of tackling challenges head-on.  

#PriceOfAdmissionPodcast #EngineeringLeadership #MilitaryExperience #ManufacturingExcellence #CareerJourney #Innovation #PodcastRelease #JakeLunday

Bemi shares his multifaceted journey from the football fields of the Naval Academy to the boardrooms of Atlas Trident Consulting. We get into Babatunde's early life, the impact of his immigrant parents on his values, his athletic and academic experiences at the Naval Academy and Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), and his service in the Navy. We also discuss Babatunde’s transition to civilian life, the challenges he faced, and how he overcame them, including his son’s health issues. Babatunde emphasizes the importance of understanding one's purpose, maintaining focus during adversity, and the transition from being a football player to a leader in service and business.

Key Takeaways:

• Background and Influence: Babatunde's parents, immigrants on academic scholarships, instilled the importance of education and success in him.
• Athletic Journey: Transitioned from soccer and basketball to football, leading to his decision to join the Naval Academy, influenced by his parents and a sense of calling.
• Naval Academy Experience: Faced challenges and growth at NAPS, creating lasting bonds and learning important life lessons.
• Service and Leadership: Emphasized the shift from sports to service, underlining the legacy and pride of being a Naval Academy athlete and the emotional depth associated with it.
• Professional Transition: Discussed the transition to a civilian career, highlighting the relevance of Naval Academy skills in the IT and consulting sectors.
• Personal Struggles and Growth: Opened up about personal challenges, including family health issues, and the importance of flexibility and adaptability in career and life.
• Life Philosophy: Stressed understanding one’s purpose and maintaining mental toughness and focus amidst life's challenges.

Takeaways

• Exploit the strengths of your team members to maximize their talents.
• Collaboration and listening to others are essential for success.
• Taking multiple perspectives can lead to new insights and innovative solutions.
• Directness and kindness are crucial in leadership.
• Embrace failure and learn from it to grow and improve.
• Acceptance and ownership are the price of admission in leadership.

Takeaways

• Lane Jackson was a key leader in the Navy football team's turnaround (as well as a High School team turnaround).
• Lane's leadership and preparation had a significant impact on his teammates.
• Lane's favorite game was against Air Force.
• Lane's childhood and decision to attend Navy and NAPS shaped his journey.
• The 2004 Emerald Bowl was a symbolic milestone bowl game for Navy football.
• Lane's transition to the Seals was challenging but rewarding.
• The mental challenge of BUD/S (Navy Seal right of passage basic training) was intense and required overcoming self-imposed limitations.
• Understanding the brain and how it works can help in developing mental toughness and resilience. Transitioning from the military to civilian life requires adapting leadership styles and embracing a more collaborative working environment.
• The value of relationships and being part of something bigger than yourself is immeasurable.
• Befriending your inner critic and using it as a guide can lead to personal growth and success.

Highlights
- The importance of the off-season
- Culture shift at Liberty Hill
- Coach Vance's coaching philosophy
- Turning the game around
- Simplicity in coaching
- Loyalty of assistant coaches
- Hiring good teachers, and building a coaching staff

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
04:32 - Memories of Coach Jerry Vance
26:26 - Coaching Journey and Philosophy
42:26 - Turning Point at Gregory Portland
45:35 - Playing in the Astrodome
47:14 - Simplicity in Coaching
49:44 - Making Changes for Success
50:15 - The Importance of Keys
52:43 - Building a Coaching Staff
56:04 - The Loyalty of Assistant Coaches
58:13 - Continuity in the Program
59:29 - Appreciating the Support Staff
01:00:43 - Favorite Memory of Jeff Walker
01:01:58 - Remaining Self-Aware
01:24:51 - Price of Admission

They discuss their background, living in Thailand, and their involvement in relief work and missions in Burma. 

• THEMES:  1) Unity.  2)  Power of Forgiveness.  3) Healing and Growth

The Pospisils discuss their experiences and journey of living and working in war-torn countries…. and the importance of making a difference and being a light in the world.

Visit the Pospisil’s website here to support their work:  Home - The Pospisils

Free Burma Rangers Website:  Free Burma Rangers

The Free Burma Ranger’s Documentary can be found on Amazon Prime Video Streaming Service

Takeaways

• Living and working in Thailand with the Free Burma Rangers
• TODAY, there have been +70 years of ongoing conflict and oppression in Burma
• The unity among different ethnic groups in the face of adversity
• Forgiveness has the power to transform hearts and break down walls of hatred.
• Sharing the stories of the oppressed and raising awareness is crucial in helping those in need.
• Asking thoughtful questions can help us gain new insights and perspectives.
• Processing our experiences can lead to personal healing and growth.
• Each person has the power to make a difference and be a light in the world.

⠀Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

03:12

Living and Working in Thailand

12:20

Erinee’s Background and Journey to Thailand

28:54

Missions and Relief Work in Burma

40:18

Impactful Events and Stories

40:29

Impact of Witnessing the Lives of the Burmese People

43:05

The Power of Forgiveness

45:24

Breaking Down Walls of Hatred

46:27

The Impact of Love and Kindness

52:13

Choosing to Love in the Midst of Chaos

56:43

Living for Something Bigger Than Yourself

59:09

The Challenge of Getting the Word Out

01:01:16

How Others Can Help

01:24:19

The Power of Thoughtful Questions

01:26:21

Being a Light

01:28:02

Starting in the single-family home sector and evolving into commercial real estate and consulting, Tyler leverages his data science expertise to ensure the business thrives independently of his military commitments. Co-founding LTG Investments (with his wife … the brains of the operation of course) in Washington, D.C., Tyler also engages in community service, notably with "Unbound Now," an anti-human trafficking nonprofit. 

His journey, marked by determination and a team-first attitude, reflects his commitment to overcoming challenges and contributing positively to every team and community he's part of. Tyler's character, shaped by his experiences ... A-lot-a-bit of “Bringing people together” and “Supporting for others” in this one.

• Bruno highlights the significant evolution and challenges of the manufacturing sector in recent years, underlining the industry's critical role in global supply chains.
• Gilberto emphasizes the importance of teamwork, data-driven decisions, experiential learning, practical problem-solving in daily life, and values perseverance in both professional and personal contexts.
• Freddy, credited with coining the phrase, reflected on the essence of "keep peddling" as finding joy in overcoming challenges, especially during tough times at the plant.
• Sean Fernando highlighted striving for excellence and personal growth, accentuating the balance between personal and professional development.
• Shawn Davies reminisced about a time when the phrase was particularly relevant during an operational challenge, emphasizing the importance of feedback as a tool for growth with a combination belief in doing the right things to eventually achieve success.

All acknowledge sacrifice - like time away from family, associated with relentless dedication in their profession.  On leadership, emphasizing humility as a key component.  

Catch his band perform called “Only Whenever” whenever you can. 

*Fun Fact - Whitney’s fam had a chance to be on Family Feud.  Pretty cool - Family Feud (May 17, 2016, 1 | #15_0185): Boudreaux/McKinney (PART 1/4)

Additionally, if you want to ATTEND a show, get tickets here at sweetnurmusic.com

WANT TO SUPPORT?!?

You can contact Chris at cnurthen45@gmail.com

Music website: SweetNur

Foodtruck website: http://www.sweetnurs.com/

Raised in Bolton, CT, and now residing in Arnold, Maryland, Cliff's journey from Ohio State University to becoming a strength coach at the United States Naval Academy spans over 23 years.  Over these 23 years, he’s bee able to impact a large chunk of this podcast listener group for sure. 

Cliff holds a BS in Health Fitness and an MS in Education and Exercise Science.  Outside of his professional life, Cliff is an enthusiast of motorized hobbies, mountain biking, hunting, and more, while also dedicating time to his children's sports activities.

If approaching Cliff on the sidelines, tread carefully; Carl may come out with a fiery energy you've never seen before. This guy is a good dude.

Key themes in this conversation:

• Nick faced a challenging upbringing, primarily raised by a single mother.
• He witnessed drugs and violence during his early years.
• His friendship with Jordan Eddington and involvement in football were pivotal in keeping him on a positive path.
• He chose the Air Force Academy over other options due to unexpected turns in his life.
• After the military, Nick transitioned to coaching high school football in Texas.
• Nick later ventured into the Salesforce domain, discovering a passion for teaching and coaching in a corporate environment.
• Comedy has served as a therapeutic outlet for Nick.
• Throughout his story, themes of mentorship, risk-taking, and the importance of a strong mindset are evident.

Whether it's his love for building, sports, audiobooks, or working out, Ketric's life is a testament to his belief that "There is no greater investment that we can make than in one another."  “It’s the different seasons” and community.

We close with discussing our “Flow, Wyrd, and Red Threads” from the book “Love + Work” by Marcus Buckingham.  

“Love + Work” by Marcus Buckingham Summary below by ChatGPT:
Love + Work” is a book by Marcus Buckingham that explores the relationship between work and personal fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of pursuing a career that aligns with one’s passions and strengths. The book offers practical advice on how to identify and harness one’s unique abilities in order to create a successful and fulfilling work life. It emphasizes the need for self-awareness, continuous learning, and adaptability in order to thrive in the modern workplace. With engaging stories and actionable tips, “Love + Work” encourages readers to take charge of their career trajectories and find a meaningful balance between their professional and personal lives.

Chaplain Owen’s book - “Into the Fire: A Season of Navy Football, Fortitude and Faith” is a book written by John Owen, chronicling the 2007 season of the United States Naval Academy football team. The book provides an insider’s look at the team, the coaches, and the players, as well as their struggles and triumphs on and off the field.
For most college football players, practice is the most difficult part of their day, and for many of them, playing for the NFL is the goal. At the United States Naval Academy, the twenty-one hours a day the players spend off the field are at least as demanding as the three that they spend on the field, and their post-college futures are determined: serving their country as officers leading Sailors and Marines. For over 130 years, Navy football has maintained a proud tradition of courage, resilience, and never flinching in the face of long odds and a good fight. The 2007 season was a thrilling and timeless example of the inseparable goals of Navy football: winning on the field and developing future officers of character and integrity. Through the words that the team chaplain shared with the team prior to every game, you’ll see why, at Navy, football is about a lot more than just football. “ . . . more than a story about athletics . . . It is a stimulating read” -Roger Staubach, USNA ’65, 1963 Heisman Trophy & Super Bowl VI MVP. “It is inspiring to learn the truths that Chaplain Owen shared with the team prior to each game. The lessons are universal . . . what a great read” -The Honorable John H. Dalton, former Secretary of the Navy

We talk about his son and our brother Blake, shared some memories and stories while discussing ways to support each other through the process. Just call. 
This one goes out to Blake Carter!

"Iron" Mike is the author of "Black Veteran Entrepreneur" Available on Amazon- Professional Business Coach building the next generation of confident, resilient, and badass entrepreneurs & brands @IRONBOUND & @The Lions Pride

If you haven’t seen the HBO documentary “Escape from Kabul”, I recommend you do to get a small glimpse of what the situation looked like on the ground.  ChatGPT summarizes the documentary for us below: 
“Escape from Kabul” is a gripping documentary produced by HBO that recounts the frantic and harrowing events of the evacuation of American citizens, Afghan allies, and other vulnerable individuals from the city of Kabul, Afghanistan in August 2021. With the Taliban rapidly taking control of the country, chaos and confusion reigned in Kabul’s airport as people scrambled to board evacuation flights amid security threats, bureaucratic hurdles, and the fear of being left behind in a war-torn and hostile environment. The documentary provides a detailed account of the challenges faced by the evacuees, the military personnel and aid workers who facilitated the evacuation, and the political decision-makers who were responsible for orchestrating the operation. “Escape from Kabul” offers a vivid and emotional portrayal of a critical moment in recent world history, and sheds light on the complexities of the military and political dynamics that shaped it.