Shows
From Embers To Excellence™Unlock Leadership Excellence with Stephen M. R. CoveyIn this eye-opening episode, join us as Dave Hollenbach, your trusted host for "From Embers to Excellence," engages in a riveting conversation with Stephen M. R. Covey, the acclaimed New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author.Discover the insights from Stephen's groundbreaking books, including "The Speed of Trust" and the recently released Wall Street Journal bestseller, "Trust & Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others."Stephen brings a wealth of practical experience, having served as the former President & CEO of the Covey Leadership Center, where he transformed the organization into the largest...
2024-01-1248 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Unleashing the Warrior Within: Former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author, and Adventure Athlete Don MannJoin us in this gripping interview as Dave Hollenbach sits down with the extraordinary Don Mann, a former Navy SEAL, world-class adventure athlete, New York Times bestselling author, and host of “Surviving Mann”. Don has been a sought-after guest on major networks like FOX, CNN, and ABC, where he has shared his unique insights and knowledge. His powerful "Pushing Beyond Boundaries" presentation has captivated and inspired thousands, leaving an indelible mark on all who hear it.As an accomplished athlete, Don has conquered multiple Ironman triathlons, numerous adventure races, and countless marathons. Learn how his athletic pursuits inte...
2024-01-0143 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Unveiling the Journey with Steve MellorDive into the transformative journey of Steve Mellor, a former Olympic Swim Coach, as he unravels the secrets of success and unleashes the potential of individuals and organizations through his company, Career Competitor. With a rich background in coaching elite performers within high-performance environments, Steve has honed his expertise over nearly two decades, offering invaluable insights as an executive coach, culture consultant, speaker, and author.Hailing from England, Steve Mellor, a former top-50 world-ranked swimmer, brings a unique blend of competitive spirit and compassion to his coaching, nurturing individuals and teams to reach unprecedented heights of success...
2023-11-0735 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Professional MMA Fighter Nicholas McCarty | From Embers to Excellence: A Journey of Leadership and Discipline in the Fighter's WorldJoin us for an insightful conversation with professional MMA fighter Nicholas McCarty as he sits down with the host Dave Hollenbach on the latest episode of From Embers to Excellence. In this episode, they delve into the captivating story of Nick's life, chronicling his journey from the struggles of life to excellence both inside the cage and on the BJJ mat.With a focus on drive, self-leadership, and unwavering discipline, Nicholas McCarty shares the lessons he's learned and the challenges he's conquered in his pursuit of greatness within the fiercely competitive world of professional fighting. Discover the...
2023-10-2142 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Neil “The Media Giant” Haley: Former Professional Wrestler and Media PersonalityNeil joins Dave Hollenbach on From Embers to Excellence for a rare interview. He has done approximately 10,000 interviews for his podcast, radio show, and TV show but rarely has he been interviewed himself. This is a great conversation that will appeal to many because of the many topics Dave and Neil cover. Visit Neil’s website to learn more about him or to connect: https://neilhaley.com/
2023-05-1245 minFrom Embers To Excellence™From Prison Cells to PhD: An Inspiring Interview with Endocrinologist and Professor Dr. Stanley AndrisseIn this inspiring interview, Dr. Stanley Andrisse shares his remarkable journey "From Prison Cells to PhD" with Dave Hollenbach, host of the show "From Embers to Excellence". Dr. Andrisse, an endocrinologist scientist and assistant professor at Howard University College of Medicine, talks about his experience as an inmate in a maximum-security prison and the psychological toll of the justice system that left him feeling hopeless and without a way forward.However, Dr. Andrisse's story takes a turn when a mentor recognized his hard work and determination and took him under his wing. Since then, Dr. Andrisse has...
2023-03-311h 03From Embers To Excellence™Learn Leadership Excellence with Jason Butler, Author of "The Village Mindset"Join Jason Butler, author of “The Village Mindset,” on Dave Hollenbach's show "From Embers to Excellence" to learn how to become a better leader. Jason has 20 years of executive leadership experience and is a keynote speaker and leadership coach. He holds a Master’s in Intercultural Studies, a Doctorate in Leadership from Duke University, and is the author of “The Village Mindset.” Learn how to strengthen your organization's culture and increase belonging by embracing servant leadership. Tune in to hear from Jason Butler now!https://jasonbutler.me/
2023-03-1746 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Renowned Speaker and Author Seth Earley on Achieving Higher Operating Performance with AIIn this episode of "From Embers to Excellence," Dave Hollenbach interviews Seth Earley, a renowned speaker, author, and influencer with over 20 years of experience in Knowledge Strategy, Data and Information Architecture, Search-based Applications, and Information Findability solutions.Seth is the author of "The AI-Powered Enterprise," a book that was released in April 2020, and went on to receive the Axiom Business Book Silver Medal in the Artificial Intelligence / Robotics / Algorithms category in 2021.In this insightful interview, Seth shares his expertise in achieving higher levels of operating performance by making information more findable, usable, and valuable through...
2023-03-1051 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Jim Knight on Achieving Leadership Excellence with Host Dave HollenbachOn this episode, Jim Knight, renowned keynote speaker, author, and training and development expert, is here to discuss his incredible journey of taking organizations from embers to excellence. Jim shares his experience at Hard Rock International, where he led Global Training for two decades, and the methods he used to create and manage staff and management training materials and programs, facilitate Hard Rock’s corporate university, oversee management training locations, and more. Tune in to learn how Jim teaches organizations of all sizes how to become “rock star” teams and leaders, and how to achieve leadership excellence.https...
2023-03-0340 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Dave Hollenbach with Claudia Miller on Rising Up as a Women in Tech LeaderIntroducing "From Embers to Excellence" hosted by Dave Hollenbach and featuring Claudia Miller, a sought-after Career Coach for Women In Tech. With her talents and expertise, Claudia has helped her clients land fulfilling jobs at a senior level, and partnered with companies and organizations in identifying rising stars within their organizations, providing strategic insights and support in developing a leadership and talent pipeline with a focus on Women and Women of Color. Her efforts have been recognized by Top Fortune 500 Clients, World Business Chicago and other organizations. Claudia is also the Creator & Host of her own podcast, "Roadmap To...
2023-02-2439 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Achieving Leadership Excellence with Velma Knowles | From Embers to Excellence with Dave HollenbachWelcome to the "From Embers to Excellence" show with your host, Dave Hollenbach! In this episode, we're joined by Velma Knowles, a leadership expert and membership strategist who works with purpose-driven organizations to drive sustainable growth through membership consulting, leadership coaching and relationship marketing. Velma shares her expertise on how to achieve leadership excellence and how to create sustainable growth using her 4-driver approach: Clarity in Numbers, Alignment in Resources, Relevance in Value, and Accountability in Planning. Plus, Velma provides examples of leadership excellence from her own experience so that you can learn how to implement these strategies in...
2023-02-1744 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Roy Osing: From Embers to Excellence - A Journey to $1 Billion in Sales with Dave HollenbachJoin us for an exciting episode with Roy Osing, former president and CMO, as he shares his 40+ years of unmatched executive leadership experience with show host Dave Hollenbach. As the former president of a major data and internet company, Roy's audacious 'unheard-of ways' took the company from its early stage to a $1 Billion in annual sales. Hear about his journey from embers to excellence and learn from his leadership excellence examples.Roy is not just a successful business leader, he is also a blogger, content marketer and mentor to young professionals. He is the author of the...
2023-02-1158 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Transforming Working Relationships into Great Partnerships with Seth R. Silver, Ed.D., and Timothy M. Franz, Ph.D.Join Dave Hollenbach as he sits down with Seth R. Silver, Ed.D., and Timothy M. Franz, Ph.D., authors of "Meaningful Partnership at Work: How the Workplace Covenant Ensures Mutual Accountability and Success between Leaders and Teams". In this episode, Dave explores the concept of transforming working relationships into great partnerships, with a focus on the importance of mutual accountability, support, and well-being for team members. Additionally, Silver and Franz share how to instill shared purpose, build empathy, respect, trust, alignment, partnership, and create authentic engagement among virtual, co-located, and on-site teams. Discover how to turn leadership excellence...
2023-02-031h 04From Embers To Excellence™From Embers to Excellence Podcast: Special Guest Bryan Gillette on Leadership and Organizational DevelopmentWelcome to the 'From Embers to Excellence' podcast, hosted by Dave Hollenbach. In this episode, we have a special guest, Bryan Gillette, who has over 25 years of experience in Leadership and Organizational Development. With executive and senior-level responsibilities in small and large companies, Bryan has a wealth of knowledge to share. He was a Vice President of Human Resources for a mid-size, global-technology company and has extensive experience in Leadership Development, Organizational Design, Communications, and Mergers & Acquisitions.Bryan's approach is pragmatic and he brings firsthand experience having managed teams of 2 to 270 people and multi-million-dollar projects. He's not...
2023-01-2047 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Transforming Organizations with Data: Insights from Data Literacy Expert Kevin HaneganIn this episode, join host Dave Hollenbach as he sits down with data literacy expert and author, Kevin Hanegan, to discuss how organizations can use data and analytics to transform and improve performance. From understanding the brain's decision-making process to overcoming implicit bias and groupthink, Kevin delves into the intersection of business, technology, learning, and psychology. He also shares his insights on the importance of data literacy and explains how to turn data into wisdom through a clear process and methodology. Additionally, Kevin covers the topic of resilience and the benefits of conflict in the workplace, and the difference...
2023-01-1848 min
Leading with integrity: Leadership talkEp.14: Leadership under stressEp.14: Leadership under stress
In this episode my guest was former Fire Service Battalion Chief David (Dave) Hollenbach, we had a wide ranging discussion about leadership, his career and achievements as a Firefighter (and brief stint in the Navy!) and more. Dave was very candid about a difficult topic that always benefits from more focus: PTSD and other forms of stress. To get in touch with Dave you can find his website here: https://www.hollenbachleadership.com/ or his LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-hollenbach-author-speaker/Speaking of LinkedIn profiles, here's mine too https://www.linkedin.com/in...
2022-11-041h 09From Embers To Excellence™Interview with David Trogdon, Founder of the HOPE ProjectDavid retired from the US Army after 33 years of military service in 2015 and currently serves with the HOPE Project. His many years of military service includes 16 years as an Army Chaplain where he deployed to Iraq twice, Afghanistan, Africa and Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include three Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. David specialized in trauma, combat stress, child loss, and grief counseling. David is a graduate of Welch College, Southeastern Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, the Army Command and General Staff College, US Army Chaplain Basic and Advance Courses, US...
2022-09-1839 minFrom Embers To Excellence™MICHAEL SUGRUE, National Speaker, Author, U.S. Air Force SF Veteran, Retired Police Sergeant, Mental Health AdvocateMichael Sugrue began his law enforcement career in theUnited States Air Force as a Security Forces Officer in 1998. As a SecurityForces Officer, Michael specialized in Law Enforcement, Global ForceProtection, Anti-Terrorism, Nuclear Security, Foreign Air Field Assessments andAir Base Ground Defense. Michael honorably separated from the Air Force as a Captainin 2004.Immediately after the Air Force, Michael was hired by theWalnut Creek Police Department where he served in a variety of assignments including:Patrol Officer, Driver...
2022-06-1545 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Rudy Reyes, Conservationist, Author, and Former Force Recon MarineRodolfo "Rudy" Reyes is an American conservationist, martial arts instructor, actor, and former active-duty United States Marine. We discuss his life growing up, his family, and his path as a warrior and philosopher. He tells me about serving in wartime as a special operations Recon Marine and scout sniper; how he ended up as an actor; his struggle with PTSD and how he has worked to overcome it. That leads to the part of our conversation where he tells me about his conservation work and how to get involved with his team doing some amazing work to save coral...
2022-03-021h 40From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Joshua Shea, Author of “The Addiction Nobody Will Talk About: How I Let My Pornography Addiction Hurt People and Destroy Relationships”Joshua Shea is a coach, author and speaker sharing his story and educating about pornography addiction. Pornography-free since March 2014, he believes that if we can begin to talk more about porn addiction and mental health, others may be able to address their addictions before they devolve to the unhealthy levels that he reached. Joshua also addresses the issues that come with being a partner of a porn addict and raising children in a world of high-speed Internet access. Interviewed more than 250 times, he has written three books, designed an online course for partners and coaches/advises both addicts and...
2022-02-251h 01From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lafontant Dorival, FirefighterLafontant Dorival has 14 years of service as a firefighter with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and has spent the majority of his career in Miami Dade’s 5th Battalion at Firehouse 7. Currently on Charlie tour serving as dedicated nozzleman. He was recruited to join MDFR’s Recruit Training Program as an Instructor, where he has made significant impacts to its program and recruits with his passion and instruction on all disciplines while focusing on “Firemanship”. He is dual certified as a Firefighter/ Paramedic, Technical Rescue Technician as well as a State of Florida Instructor II and Live Fire Training Instructor. Additionally, Lafontan...
2022-02-181h 04From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Karen Hardwick, Author of “The Connected Leader”Karen is the host of the podcast “Saving You a Seat” and Author of “The Connected Leader: 7 Strategies to Empower Your True Self and Inspire Others.” She is also a psychotherapist turned leadership consultant with a Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary.Karen blends psychology and spirituality with leadership in order to transform the lives of countless Fortune 1000 leaders at work and home. Her book, The Connected Leader, shows us humans how to grow emotionally and spiritually using her 7 Strategies of Connection to become our best selves as parents, spouses, and leaders at work. The following is a lis...
2022-02-1156 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jerry Fu, Conflict Resolution Coach for Asian-American LeadersJerry is a conflict resolution coach for Asian-American leaders. He started coaching in 2017 to help other Asian-American professionals deal with the challenges they encounter at work, with their families, and within themselves.Prior to starting his coaching business, Jerry worked as a pharmacist and began facilitating leadership workshops in 2012. Today, Jerry offers a range of coaching services, which includes individual coaching, group workshops, and keynote presentations. Jerry and I discuss some common mistakes people make with conflict, tips to resolve conflict effectively, and what led Jerry to pursue coaching full-time. Jerry talks about his decision...
2022-02-041h 08From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Mark Herschberg, Author of “The Career Toolkit”Mark is the author of “The Career Toolkit, Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You.” Educated at MIT, Mark has spent his career launching and fixing new ventures at startups, Fortune 500s, and academia. He’s developed new software languages, online marketplaces, new authentication systems, and tracked criminals and terrorists on the dark web. Mark helped create the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, MIT’s “Career Success Accelerator”, where he’s taught for twenty years. Mark also serves on the boards of non-profits Techie Youth and Plant a Million Corals.This is an excellent episode. Mark and I dive int...
2022-01-281h 25From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Raamon Newman, Co-founder & CEO of New MavericksRaamon Newman is Co-founder & CEO of New Mavericks, a global leadership development consultancy based in Los Angeles, Melbourne, and Sydney. He has worked with over 50 top CEOs and executives of billion dollar-revenue companies for more than 20 years, providing them with techniques to achieve high leadership capacity, averting problems and seizing growth opportunities. Raamon is also co-author to “The Science of Protection: How Leaders Gain an Unfair Advantage to Create Stellar Success.”He is a former top-three nationally-ranked track athlete, national cross country team winner, state championship-winning rugby player, environmental products entrepreneur, 10-year full-time meditating monk, Meisner trained acto...
2022-01-211h 14From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Michelle Kuei, Author of “Perfectly Normal: An Immigrant's Story of Making It in America”Michelle is the Founder of Elevate Life Coaching and a Clinical Pharmacist at Keck Medical Center of USC who graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy from St. John's University. She is an International Motivational Speaker, a Visibility Confidence Coach, a Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher, an Associate Certified Coach, a Certified Professional Coach, a Certified Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, a Certified Cor. E Transition Dynamic Specialist, and the Author of “Perfectly Normal: An Immigrant's Story of Making It in America.”Michelle is an expert in helping Women Coaches and Thought Leaders in taking a step forward and unstuck from...
2022-01-1445 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lisa Wilson, Leadership Vision CoachLisa Wilson is a Leadership Vision Coach and Human Resources Cultural Consultant. Her passion is teaching leaders to effectively lead their teams by creating exceptional workplace cultures. Witnessing the impact of both poor and great leadership she now devotes herself to coaching leaders so their teams can experience the excellence they deserve. Lisa believes that leadership is not only about the people around you. It’s about leading yourself in a way that allows you to show up for your team as the best version of yourself. Her experience in Human Resources and her own health struggles ha...
2022-01-071h 27From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Geoff Speyrer, Hybrid Athlete and founder of S.E.T. 22Geoff Speyrer is a veteran of the war in Iraq and the founder of the S.E.T. 22 endurance challenge that raises money to help veterans with PTSD. Shortly after Geoff returned home from the middle east he began struggling with the symptoms of PTSD. During our conversation he gives an honest account of how he struggled with addiction, became a fugitive from the law, spent time incarcerated, and time in mental health facilities.His story is inspiring and includes details of his journey through recovery and advice he has applied to his own life. He describes...
2021-12-311h 50From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Corey Poirier, Author of “The Book of Why and How”Corey Poirier is a multiple-time TEDx, MoMondays, and PMx Speaker and International Bestselling Author. He is also the host of the top rated ‘Get Paid To Speak’ Show, founder of The Speaking Program, Author of the For The Love of Speaking Book, founder of bLU Talks, and he has been featured in multiple television specials. A columnist with Entrepreneur and Forbes magazine, he has been featured in/on CBS, CTV, NBC, ABC, is a Forbes Coaches Council member, and is one of the few leaders featured twice on the popular Entrepreneur on Fire show. He has also inte...
2021-12-2453 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Emily Reilly, PLPCEmily is a provisional licensed professional counselor in New Orleans, LA. She specializes in trauma and PTSD and has worked primarily with veterans and first responders. Emily got her master’s in counseling from TCU and her master’s in clinical psychology from UCF, where she trained under one of the country’s leading experts in PTSD treatment, Dr. Deborah Beidel. Emily was born and raised in Columbus, OH and attended TheOhio State University for psychology and neuroscience. After graduation, she moved to Fort Hood, TX for a job working on PTSD research studies with active-duty soldie...
2021-12-1749 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Steve Williams, Corrections Officer and FirefighterSteve Williams started working EMS and Fire in April of 1996, working for an ambulance company and as a volunteer firefighter, ground ambulance, air ambulance flight crew. In the fire arena he was always drawn to wildland firefighting, structure fire and rescue was challenging but, never felt at home like during wildland fire season. Steve went to the academy for the California Department of Corrections in 2000. He was assigned to the High Desert State Prison in Susanville, California. High Desert State Prison is a high security mission prison. Steve promoted to sergeant in 2005, and transferred to the infamous...
2021-12-101h 50From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Drew Neisser, Author of “Renegade Marketing”Drew Neisser is the founder of Renegade, the award-winning strategic boutique for business to business (B2B) innovators and CMO Huddles, the fastest-growing, most engaged community of B2B CMOs on the planet.Considered among the top B2B influencers by Adobe/Marketo, Gartner, IBM and Pega Systems, Drew has been a featured marketing expert on ABC News, CNBC, CBS Radio and Tony Robbins’ podcast among many others. He is also a frequent keynote speaker and moderator at industry conferences.Drew officially founded Renegade in 1996. He earned a BA in history from Duke University, currently si...
2021-12-031h 03From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Firefighter SteveO MichelSteven Anthony Michel, “SteveO” is the son of Haitian immigrants. He grew up in the inner city of Orlando, overcame adversity with the help of some incredible mentors and football. After graduating from Jones High School, SteveO went to Colorado State University where he earned a Bachelors degree in social work and played Division 1 football as an outside linebacker. After college he decided to become a firefighter and serve in the same area he grew up in. SteveO and I discuss what it was like growing up in the area he did and what it is like work...
2021-11-261h 10From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Nate Palmer, Author of “The Million Dollar Body Method”Nate is a fitness and nutrition expert, coach, speaker, and writer who believes that being in incredible shape gives a massive advantage in business, focus, and relationships. He is the #1 bestselling author of “The Million Dollar Body Method” and “Passport Fitness.” Nate helps business owners and entrepreneurs improve their physique, finances, and family time using fitness and nutrition as force multipliers. During our conversation Nate and I discuss why breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and how it can improve your performance across the board. He tells me how his book can help with building...
2021-11-1955 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lathan Craft, Author of “The Leper in the Church: Stories From the Unseen”Lathan is an international bestselling author and host of the podcast The Other Side of the Church. On his podcast, he presents stories of church hurt and hope from familiar voices like author Bob Goff and recording artists Blanca and Matthew West. Lathan is also the founder of Made for Purpose, a coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping people push past corporate molds to uncover what they’re designed to do in this world. He has devoted his life to researching and articulating the importance of belonging.Lathan and I have an amazing conversation ab...
2021-11-121h 20From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Chancellor Jackson, author of “14 Days in Beijing”Chancellor was born in Fulton County, Georgia and grew up in Smyrna, Georgia. He attended Stetson University. He played football at the high school and collegiate level for nine years. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media Studies, Chancellor lived abroad in China from 2018-2019. He began writing after his traumatic experience of being arrested and detained in Beijing for 14 days. His first book, "14 Days in Beijing" has ranked #1 over fifteen times on Amazon in multiple genres.In our conversation Chancellor tells me a little about his life, football career, and the path th...
2021-11-051h 06From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jodi Woelkerling, Author of “World Class Leadership”After teetering on the edge of burnout, she looked towards building her resilience. On her journey, Jodi became a 'Success Principles' certified trainer, health and life coach and neuro-linguistic programming practitioner. She has since paired those skills with her corporate knowledge and understanding of leadership. This paved the way for her to help others overcome their resilience challenges and cultural barriers in their workplaces.Jodi and I talk about what “resilience” means and how to build resilience into culture. Jodi tells me how she helps people gain the ability to self-care and provide self-maintenance? We talk about some...
2021-10-2958 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Dr. Denise Moore Revel, Author of “Own Your Amazing”Dr. Denise Moore Revel is a CEO, founder, an award-nominated, best-selling author, speaker, and personal development coach. For over 25 years, she has literally helped people find their voices. As a speech-language pathologist (therapist), her job has been helping her clients discover their voice.Dr. Denise founded The Own Your Amazing Movement as an extension of the message of finding your own voice and living your worth out loud. Through coaching, mentoring, and workshops, Dr. Denise empowers women to find their unique voice, live their worth out loud, and create amazing lives they love.Dr. Denise...
2021-10-221h 19From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Darrell Williams, Inspirational Speaker, Leadership and Relationship CoachDarrell brings extensive experience as a master certified life coach and a member of the Federal Coaching Network. He is an inspirational speaker and certified facilitator who provides clients with expertise in the realm of leadership, relationships, and purpose. His leadership background includes 30 years of federal service highlighted by his induction into the White House Communications Agency Hall of Fame. His leadership coaching is based on a stellar 20-year military career, where he traveled as an Operations and Vice-Presidential Communications Officer, leading over 500 White House missions. Following the tragedies of September 11, 2001, Darrell was selected as 1 of 5 key leaders, from 30...
2021-10-1558 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview # 2 with Jeremy Sherman, author of “What's up with Assholes?”Jeremy Sherman, PhD is a cradle-to-grave science researcher and writer studying the unbroken chain from the origins of life from chemistry to humankind's grave situation today. He's the author of the Columbia University Press book “Neither Ghost Nor Machine: The emergence and nature of selves.” He has written 1000+ articles with 9 million readers for Psychology Today. For 25 years, he has been a close research collaborator with Harvard/Berkeley neuroscientist Terrence Deacon. His latest book is called "What's up with Assholes? Advanced psychoproctology for beginners. Sherman is all about making advanced ideas intuitive, practical, and funny. This is a great follow up c...
2021-10-0856 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jeremy Sherman, author of “What's up with Assholes? Advanced Psychoproctology”Jeremy Sherman, PhD is a cradle-to-grave science researcher and writer studying the unbroken chain from the origins of life from chemistry to humankind's grave situation today. He's the author of the Columbia University Press book “Neither Ghost Nor Machine: The emergence and nature of selves.” He has written 1000+ articles with 9 million readers for Psychology Today. For 25 years, he has been a close research collaborator with Harvard/Berkeley neuroscientist Terrence Deacon. His latest book is called "What's up with Assholes? Advanced psychoproctology for beginners. Sherman is all about making advanced ideas intuitive, practical, and funny. This is a great conversation wher...
2021-10-011h 16From Embers To Excellence™Interview with John Lee, founder of http://custommobile.app/John Lee is a software product manager and a small-business owner. He is the founder of custommobile.app which is an app designed for podcasts and networks. Additionally, John likes to discuss religion and philosophy. After corresponding, we decided to record this episode to discuss theism and atheism, the requirements for happiness, the relationship between free will and rationality, the relationship between purpose and meaning, and objective morality. It is a very interesting conversation that may illicit some emotion from some listeners. If you are interested in John’s business or you would like to contact him, check out hi...
2021-09-241h 13From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Minerva Salles, Founder & CEO OMG Creative SolutionsMinerva is a dynamic and visionary multicultural leader and storyteller with over fifteen years of multimedia and international relations experience working in the US and Latin America. She helps bridge cultural gaps and language barriers for local and foreign businesses that want to expand in U.S. markets for opportunities to increase brand awareness. She has worked as an independent producer and on-air TV contributor for ABC’s digital cable channel, ABC News Now. In addition, she developed audiovisual news packages for ABC News programs. She is a graduate student at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affa...
2021-09-1744 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lucas Caneda, Team Lead at Uniqorn Incubator + Pro Rugby PlayerLucas Caneda is global team leader at Uniqorn Incubator and a professional rugby player in Sarlat Rugby. Lucas grew up as a die-hard rugby player starting at the age of 5. Even though he suffered what many thought would be a career-ending knee injury, he moved to France and became a professional rugby player. After a few years in France, he joined the Sarlat Rugby Team, where Lucas met Dom Einhorn, the Founder and CEO of the UNIQORN incubator-accelerator. Lucas immediately integrated Rugby into the incubator's program where he now works as a team leader for both the incubator as...
2021-09-1051 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Eric Winters, Author of Swipe Right on Your Best Self: Simple steps to a bolder life with fewer regretsEric is a self-leadership coach, black-belt hand-washer, speaker, and author with deep knowledge in the science of building courageous and emotionally intelligent mindsets.His know-how is a result of over 20 years of international corporate life, two master’s degrees in human behavior change, and over 12 years helping leaders and their teams become their best selves to meet workplace challenges effectively. He spends much of his time developing authentically courageous leadership through keynotes, workshops, and individual coaching. In this episode, Eric tells me about his book and outlines what he calls: the 3 human predicaments, 3 cr...
2021-09-041h 01From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Kyle Sullivan, Unleash the Champ founderKyle Sullivan is the founder of Unleash the Champ. With over 10 years of organizational leadership & team development within ministry leading thousands of people plus a growing desire to learn it all, he strives to inspire people everywhere to unlock the cages they are in to unleash the champ within. Kyle tells me about his organization and how he is able to help shape cultures. He tells me that culture is what you tell, teach, and tolerate.We discuss the Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) Study and the statistics related to it. How do you approach leading a diverse...
2021-08-281h 02From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Trina Martin, Retired Naval Officer and Author of “From a Mess to Amazing”Trina L. Martin is a technologist, author, speaker, leadership coach, and podcaster. An accomplished IT professional and retired U.S. Naval Officer with 30 years of service, she has broken barriers and made strides in her career that many said weren’t possible. Throughout Trina’s career, the common denominator has been her ability to set goals and not only achieve but surpass them. Self-motivation, discipline, and hard work are the driving forces that helped her design a life and career that defied the odds stacked against her. Trina is the author of the book, 'From a Mess to Amazing: 7 Step...
2021-08-201h 03From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Christian de la Huerta, Author, TedX Speaker, Personal Transformation CoachWith 30 years of experience, Christian de la Huerta is a sought-after spiritual teacher, personal transformation coach and leading voice in the breathwork community. He has traveled the world offering inspiring and transformational retreats combining psychological and spiritual teachings with lasting and life-changing effects. An award-winning, critically acclaimed author, he has spoken at numerous universities and conferences and on the TedX stage. His new book, Awakening the Soul of Power, was described by multiple Grammy Award–winner Gloria Estefan as “a balm for the soul of anyone searching for truth and answers to life’s difficult questions.” Christian and I discus h...
2021-08-131h 00From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Robert Raymond Riopel, Author of the international best-selling book "Success Left A Clue"Robert Raymond Riopel is an international Best-Selling author, App Designer, Entrepreneur and Trainer who has spent the past 18+ years travelling around the world sharing his passion. He has also shared the stage with and trained many of the top trainers and thought leaders in the world today.Robert and I discuss his book and he tells me what he means when he says, “Doubt the Doubt.” Robert talks about why defining what you want may not be easy and why celebrating your accomplishments is vital. We discuss the Butterfly Effect and the importance of being your authentic self...
2021-08-061h 13From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Allan J. "Alonzo" Wind, UAID Senior Foreign Service Officer, RetiredAllan J. "Alonzo" Wind is a retired Senior Foreign Service Officer from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and author of “ANDEAN ADVENTURES: An Unexpected Search for Meaning, Purpose and Discovery Across Three Countries.” He has worked on and off with the USAID primarily overseas on diplomatic assignments from 1990 to 1992 and 1999 to 2019 in the Peru, Nicaragua, Angola, Nigeria, Iraq, Afghanistan and South Africa and the Southern Africa USAID Regional Missions. He provided oversight to U.S. government foreign aid development and humanitarian assistance, and supported U.S. Ambassadors as their senior development officer on multiple U.S. Emba...
2021-07-301h 57From Embers To Excellence™Interview with David Shar, founder of Illuminate PMCDavid Shar is the founder of Illuminate PMC and creator of the FTF Burnout-Proof Culture Model. He is a keynote speaker, consultant, and trainer specializing in helping organizations improve their leadership and culture, combat burnout, and design meaningful work. David combines decades of leadership experience with the latest psychological research to help you attract, retain, and motivate top talent.David holds his bachelor's in human resource management from Colorado State University and his master's in industrial / organizational psychology from the University of Maryland – College Park. He is a current doctoral candidate in business psychology at The Chicago Sc...
2021-07-2359 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jennifer Thornton, Founder & CEO of 304 CoachingJennifer has developed her expertise in Talent Strategy & Leadership Professional Development over her exciting 20+ year career as an HR Professional. She’s led international teams across Greater China, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S. to expand into new markets, managing franchise retailers, and developing key strategic partnerships - all while exceeding business objectives and financial results.The rapid growth of her consulting firm 304 Coaching has been largely due to Jennifer’s unconventional approach to building innovative workforce development solutions for companies who are facing breakthrough growth and accelerated hiring patterns.She is a soug...
2021-07-2339 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Tigrilla Gardenia, Nature-Inspired Mentor and Leadership CoachTigrilla Gardenia is a nature-inspired mentor and leadership coach. In our conversation she tells me about how she began her journey in Miami, FL and experienced a polyethnic childhood. She tells me about earning a degree in music and electrical engineering, afterward entering the high-tech corporate world via RealNetworks and Microsoft in the early days of the internet. We talk about her circus, her business that allowed her to produce intentional dance events. We talk about her spiritual influences that led to a time when she taught Kabbalah. Part of the discussion is centered around her life when she...
2021-07-161h 15From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Krishna Mohan, Entrepreneur, Business Coach, #1 Best Selling Author, and President at Genius Visionary Inc.Krishna Mohan is an Entrepreneur, Business Coach, #1 Best Selling Author, and the President at Genius Visionary Inc. Krishna tells me about his life growing in up in a middle-class family in India. He talks about competing as a Championship-level gymnast and how that influenced his drive and philosophy. He has 3 Master’s Degrees and has worked for several Fortune 500 companies. We talk about his business and how he helps others achieve high levels of success. His coaching process involves defining your purpose, developing resilience, and pursuing professional fulfilment. Krishna offers the audience a complimentary consultation at the end of th...
2021-07-1634 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Dr. Marissa Pei aka ‘The Asian Oprah’ -Happiness Coach, Celebrity Host, Motivational Speaker, Corporate Psychologist, #1 Bestselling AuthorDr. Marissa was the Winner of the 2020 Excellence in Media Radio, 2016 Lotus Award, 2014 Asian Heritage Award, 2012 Asian Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the 2017 Iconic Women Creating a Better World for All, she is a sought after Global Thought Leader. Her Balance Tools include the 21 Day Fast from Complaining and Balance Tai QiQong, a moving mediation that promotes Inner Peace One Breath at a Time.Dr. Marissa’s newest book “8 Ways to Happiness from Wherever You Are” has hit 8 Bestseller Lists including #4 Denver Post and #1 Amazon and 4 Book Award Medals, becoming the foundation to her Happy88 Mission, helpin...
2021-07-0955 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Shannon Polson, U.S. Army Apache Helicopter Pilot and Author of "The Grit Factor"Shannon Huffman Polson is author of The Grit Factor: Courage, Resilience and Leadership in the Most Male Dominated Organization in the World (Harvard Business Review Press) and an in-demand speaker who presents to audiences worldwide on leadership and grit. As one of the first women to fly the Apache helicopter in the U.S. Army, Polson led three line units on three different continents before earning her MBA at the Tuck School at Dartmouth and leading teams in the corporate world at Microsoft. She later earned her MFA. Her first book is North of Hope: A Daughter's Arctic Journey...
2021-07-0248 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Dom BrightmonDominique "Dom" Brightmon, DTM is an award-winning speaker and certified member with the John Maxwell Team. He is the author of "Going North!: Tips & Techniques to Advance Yourself", "Stay the Course: The Elite Performer's 7 Secret Keys to Sustainable Success" and contributing author for the book, “Crappy to Happy: Sacred Stories of Transformational Joy.” Dom host's the Going North podcast, a top-rated self-help podcast that interviews authors from all over the world. We have a great conversation about his life, influences, and motivations. Please check out his website for additional information about his podcast, books, and his offerings: https://www.domb...
2021-06-2550 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Dr. Steve YacovelliDr. Steve Yacovelli is an award-winning author, speaker, and catalyst for inclusive leadership in and out of the workplace. He's an entrepreneur, having founded TopDog Learning Group, LLC in 2008, and a thought leader in leadership, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and change management. We have an amazing conversation about his book "Pride Leadership." We explore leadership through the LGBTQ+ lens highlighting the fact that excellent leadership is excellent leadership regardless of sexuality, gender, race, etc. To learn more about Dr. Yacovelli, his offerings, and/or how to purchase his book visit his website: www.topdoglearning.biz
2021-06-1845 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with James Tipton, First SGT USAF, retiredI visited James “Tip” Tipton at his home in Panama City, FL where we recorded this interview. Tip shares pieces of his story with me. James Tipton was medically retired after 23 years of honorable service in the United States Air Force. He was deployed 13 times during our country’s fight against terrorism. This conversation is filled with revelations concerning life, leadership, battling PTSD, discovering purpose, and some of the pros and cons of becoming a paraplegic. There are some emotions revealed and colorful language is not in short supply. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or sui...
2021-06-111h 22From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Ben Baker, Podcast Host and Leadership GuruBen Baker has had his own podcast www.YourLIVINGBrand.live for over three years now and has recorded over 270 episodes. During that same time, he has guested on nearly 200 podcasts around the world. Ben and I discuss leadership in depth and talk about the importance of diversity when shaping the culture of an organization. More specifically we talk about women in leadership roles and how women and men have much to learn from one another when it comes to leadership. This is an incredible conversation that is sure to rattle some cages and yet reinforce what so many leaders...
2021-06-0454 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with John Davis, Corporate Action HeroJohn Davis is an internationally known Speaker, Comedian, Author, and Action Hero. John has traveled extensively throughout the world speaking to audiences of all ages and backgrounds in 28 countries and over 4000 live performances. Using his peak performance methods, John has been a Stuntman, fight director, Comedian, College Professor, and Artistic Director. He did all this though he was born with a debilitating back disorder that would intermittently leave him paralyzed. From 2001-2006 John delivered over one hundred performances on the front lines of Iraq and Afghanistan with the USO. In this episode John and I discuss his...
2021-05-281h 16From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Tyler Foley, Speaker/Actor/EntrepreneurSean Tyler Foley and I discuss his life growing up, how he became an actor, some of the challenges he faced throughout his life, and his influences which led him to be the man he is today. Tyler discusses how he discovered his passion for helping people find their voice so they can get their message out to the world. We talk about his book, "The Power to Speak Naked", and the importance of empowering people to share their stories with others. As a performer, speaker, and a general seeker of attention, he knows how hard it can be...
2021-05-2156 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jerrid Geving, Sacred Mountain Retreat founderJerrid Geving is the president and founder of the Sacred Mountain Retreat Center in Deadwood, South Dakota. Sacred Mountain Retreat Center seeks to honor the service and sacrifice of our Nation’s wounded, ill or injured Veterans, First Responders, & Gold Star families. They serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of these heroes, help to eliminate the noise of everyday life and encourage healing through exposure to nature, alternative healing methods, and open communication with our brothers and sisters in arms. Jerrid tells me about his background, about his family, who his influences are, and what in...
2021-05-1449 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jackie Bruder, Miami Dade Fire Captain, RetiredJackie retired from Miami Dade Fire Rescue as a Captain/Paramedic after more than 30 years of service. We begin our conversation with Jackie telling me about her life growing up and how her family moved from Cuba to Puerto Rico and then to Miami, FL. She tells me about what inspired her to become a firefighter and the importance of not just being mentored but mentoring as well. We talk about Jackie's experiences working in a male dominated environment, her leadership philosophy, and it's progression. She gives several great examples of leading up and leadership in high stress environments...
2021-05-071h 56From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Retired Corporal Mike "Hoppy" Hopkins, OCSOMike "Hoppy" Hopkins retired from Orange County Sheriff's Office with more than 30 years in law enforcement. Much of his career was spent working in or leading the EOD (explosive ordinance disposal) Team, the Clandestine Lab Team, Dive Team, and undercover narcotics. Hoppy shares with me about his childhood growing up in south Florida, playing sports, diving, boating, and fishing. Ultimately, he became a law enforcement officer for Miami Dade where he experienced first hand the devastation caused by Hurricane Andrew while on duty. He talks about his leadership philosophy and the people throughout his career who influenced him. Hoppy...
2021-04-301h 35From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Joe Washington, Retired Battalion ChiefChief Washington is a veteran of the United States Air Force and a 30 year veteran of the fire service. He shares some of his family's history and lessons learned that helped build him into the man he is today. He is a very accomplished chief officer that has spent his career shaping one of the largest fire departments in the state of Florida. We discuss some of the leadership lessons that he taught me and some of the lessons he has learned that resulted in a philosophical approach to leading people in various capacities. Joe is very candid in...
2021-04-231h 12From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Tom "Bull" Hill, Retired Firefighter and President of The Firehood FoundationTom “Bull” Hill is a retired firefighter who is well known in the state of Florida and around the country for “The March of the Bull.” His march from the Zero Mile Marker in Key West, Florida to Tallahassee (Florida’s capital) served so many purposes and helped so many people beyond what is known to the public. Bull and I talk about many different topics: firefighter cancer, PTSD, substance abuse, sexual abuse, and he tells some touching stories about his life and lives that have impacted his. He tells me how “The March” began as him keeping a promise to a b...
2021-04-163h 01From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Jo Terry: Chip Terry Fund FounderJo Terry discusses the loss of her husband, Chip Terry. Chip Terry was a father, husband, son, brother, coach, and firefighter who worked for the City of Covington for nearly 30 years. He, along with many other first responders, struggled with Post Traumatic Stress Injuries. This has lead many to alcoholism, drug addictions, high divorce rates, and sadly, suicide. Unknown to everyone, including himself, Chip struggled for many years with Post Traumatic Stress Injuries and finally lost his battle. He committed suicide on September 15, 2017 leaving behind his wife of 31 years, 6 children, and one grandson. The Chip Terry Fund is on...
2021-04-0947 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Interview with Hugh and Jackie Bruder: How they are saving lives with IASISBeing caregivers at heart, Hugh and his wife Jackie decided to become Certified IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback Providers and open Mended Minds, which is dedicated to helping those who suffer from symptoms associated with neurological disorders or deficits. Mended Minds uses the IASIS MCN Neurofeedback system which helps to balance the brainwave activity that aggravates conditions such as PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, ADD/ADHD, Insomnia and more.Among his many credentials, Hugh is certified in Aircraft Firefighting, Marine Firefighting, Wild Land firefighting, Aero-Medical Treatment/Transportation, Rescue Scuba Diver, and a multitude of other fire and emergency medical...
2021-04-022h 06From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Rick Segrest, Retired Battalion Chief and co-owner of Firesled Functional Fitness and TrainingChief Rick Segrest is a retired battalion chief with 35 years in the fire service. He is co-owner of Firesled Functional Fitness and Training and co-inventor of the Firesled and the Punisher. During his time in the fire service he held several ranks as well as managed a diverse amount of responsibilities. His career started in 1981 as a firefighter, five years later he was promoted to Engineer (driver.) He then rose through the ranks of Lieutenant, Safety Captain, Operations Battalion Chief, and finished his career as the Safety and Wellness Chief. Rick and I discuss his youth, athletics...
2021-03-262h 02From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Will Watts, Fire Chief of Maitland Fire DepartmentChief Watts and I discuss his time in the fire service and his experiences as he moved up through the ranks. He discusses some of his most valuable lessons as a young firefighter and how his time in each rank shaped his approach to leading the Maitland Fire Department. Chief Watts is extremely humble and gracious as he provides background on some of the lessons he has learned throughout his career and expresses his gratitude toward the various influences that have shaped who he is. Toward the end of the conversation we talk about some different aspects of today's...
2021-03-191h 12From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lieutenant/PM Andre Perez, IAFF Local 2057 PresidentSoftware Generated Transcript; may contain spelling and grammatical errorsToday I am talking with Lieutenant paramedic, Andre Perez. He is a 22 year, well, almost 22 year veteran of orange County fire rescue getting hired back in April of 1999. I think you did have some previous [00:01:00] fire department experience before coming to orange County.I did. I did. Yep. I worked at a small department in Palm beach County called Pahokee, and I was there about six and a half years. Did you just make that name up? I did not, but they no longer exist. So...
2021-03-121h 20From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Mauro Porcelli, retired firefighter and author of "Surviving the Firehouse"Mauro Porcelli is a retired Orlando Fire Department firefighter and author of "Surviving the Firehouse." In this episode we discuss his 25 year career in the fire service that began with the Marion County Fire Department. We discuss his amazing book that has become a tool that fire chiefs use to prepare their newly hired firefighters for life in the fire department. Mauro shares his experiences growing up in New York and his trajectory in public safety. We discuss some of the particular lessons that he details in his book as well as some valuable leadership lessons that anyone can...
2021-03-051h 05From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Patrick Fitzgibbons, Host of CJEvolution Podcast and retired LEOPatrick Fitzgibbons is the host of the popular criminal justice podcast CJEvolution. He authored the book "EVOLVE," and is a retired law enforcement officer. He served his community for 23 years as he worked his way up the ranks holding multiple leadership positions. He also served in the US Army in the 82nd Airborne. In this episode Patrick shares a great deal with me regarding his leadership philosophy, his influences, experience with PTSD, and the mindfulness related to effective leadership. Additionally, we discuss the importance of mindset, visualization, and coaching. This is a great, fast paced episode with a great...
2021-02-261h 03From Embers To Excellence™Interview with retired Police Sergeant Tanya Schmell, Director of Peer Support Programs, Crisis Systems Management, L.L.C.Tanya Schmell is a retired police sergeant and currently works to provide first responder resiliency, wellness and peer support training. We discuss her current roles and how she is working toward mitigating first responder suicide. Our conversation covered multiple topics surrounding mental health in the public safety community including overcoming the stigma surrounding asking for help. Tanya tells me about her experience dealing with gender discrimination. She offers advice to women in law enforcement and the fire service as well as provides advice to men who recognize disparities within these communities. You can contact Tanya at Tanya@crisisnegotiation.us
2021-02-191h 36From Embers To Excellence™Interview with FDNY Deputy Chief Austin Horan, retiredAustin Horan retired from FDNY as a Deputy Chief after 37 years of faithful service. We talk about his humble beginnings as a poor Irish kid from the Bronx, getting his work ethic from his father, and learning to be a plumber as a young man. Austin shares advice he received from mentors coming up through the ranks that helped shape his career. He tells me about the three confirmed miracles in his life, some funny stories, and what leaders need to remember when leading in high stress environments. Chief Horan gives his 9/11 story. It is moving. This interview covers...
2021-02-122h 41From Embers To Excellence™Interview with "Changing the Culture" Podcast Host Autumn CliffordIn this episode I have an amazing conversation with Instagram sensation and host of the podcast "Changing the Culture" Autumn Clifford. We talk about the stigma in public safety and the military surrounding getting help with dealing and coping with PTSD. Autumn gives some valuable advice to women who aspire to go into law enforcement or the fire service. We talk about self-leadership, mindset, communication, and resiliency. She and I both share some personal stories and perspectives that will either inspire you, offend you, or just make you laugh. You can check out her website here: https://autumnclifford.com...
2021-02-051h 29From Embers To Excellence™Interview with U.S. Navy SEAL Chief Warrant Officer Don Mann, RetiredDon Mann is a retired Navy SEAL Chief Warrant Officer, a New York Times best selling author, an accomplished adventure racer, a motivational speaker, and a man who cares about making the world a better place for children and wounded veterans. In this episode we discuss Don’s dedication and training, his obsession with being the best, and how he used visualization to achieve his goals. Don tells me about a commitment to himself to never leave anything on the table to the point that he trained hard enough to bleed from at least one orifice. This way he co...
2021-01-291h 44From Embers To Excellence™Interview with U.S. Navy SEAL Ross Munro, MCPO RetiredMaster Chief Petty Officer Ross Munro retired after 31 years in the United States Navy, 27 of which he served operating as a Navy SEAL. He has worked at developing the leadership skills in the cadets of the Citadel Military College in Charleston, South Carolina. He is currently serving his second term as a Camden County, North Carolina commissioner and works for the Cherokee Nation in their Unmanned Aerial Systems division. We talk about his time as a SEAL, his leadership philosophy, and among other things, two non-profit organizations he is passionate about: The Sacred Mountain Retreat (https://sacredmtnretreat.org/) and...
2021-01-221h 30From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Chief Rick LaskyChief Lasky and I discuss his history in the fire service, a little bit about his family history, and talk quite a bit about leadership. Throughout our conversation you can feel the passion Chief Lasky has for the job and for the people who make the fire service one of the greatest professions known to mankind.
2021-01-151h 12From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Author D.A. MichaelsD.A. Michaels, author of “Courageously Broken,” is a veteran of the United States Navy and a veteran law enforcement officer. We discuss her book, which is a memoir about the adversity she has had to overcome in her life. Donna shares some of the traumatic events she experienced as a child, as a young sailor, a mother, and as a law enforcement officer. We discuss PTSD and her dog Saint. Donna shares some great stories that are sure to make you smile if not laugh, along with some that may bring a tear to your eye. Information on how...
2021-01-081h 57From Embers To Excellence™Retired Engineer Dan Horan InterviewRetired Engineer Dan Horan is a 26 year veteran of the Orange County Fire Rescue Department. He shares some of the most memorable moments of his career and some great leadership advice. Dan retired with a reputation for being one of the funniest, most opinionated, argumentative individuals on the department. He talks about his time in the United States Army and some of his life's greatest influences. This is a very candid conversation filled with some colorful language and quite a few laughs. People may not agree with everything he says, but if you listen with an open mind, I...
2021-01-011h 41From Embers To Excellence™Interview with SERE Specialist Mike McCuneMike McCune is a SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) Specialist, former cage fighter, competitive rock climber, and all around bad ass. We discuss his path from changing tires at Sam's Club to becoming a cage fighter, to training military personnel how to survive. He currently trains civilians how to survive in a wide variety of environments as he works on his degree in Leadership.
2020-12-251h 22From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Chief Otto Drozd, IIIChief Otto Drozd, III is the Fire Chief for Seminole County Fire Rescue in central Florida. He began his career in the fire service with the Hialeah Fire Department, worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming HFD’s fire chief in 2001. Additionally, he has served as the fire chief for El Paso Fire Department and Orange County Fire Rescue before taking his current position with SCFR. We discuss how he continues to learn in order to stay ahead of the curve within his role as fire chief. He talks about technology that will enhance services in the future. He...
2020-12-181h 20From Embers To Excellence™Captain Mike Yetter Interview #2Captain Yetter, being the awesome friend that he is, agreed to do another interview with the stipulation that we try a little free-flow conversation and see how it goes. Well it was an awesome conversation. I had to cut out a few parts because of the colorful humor that might be misperceived as serious conversation. Maybe I'll release the gag reel when Yetter retires. If you want a good introduction into the minds of firefighters, this will be a great episode for you. For those on the job, this will hit home for sure. Enjoy.
2020-12-111h 50From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Ret. Battalion Chief Dave AganChief Agan discusses his professional development spanning more than just the 32 years he devoted to the fire service. His time as a principal officer for the IAFF Local 2057 gave him a unique perspective and approach to leading firefighters. We discuss a few of the emergencies we responded to that stand out in our memories and impacted our lives. This is a great episode if you are considering a career in public safety or want to improve as a leader in your department.
2020-12-041h 19From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Retired Lieutenant Derek AlligoodRetired Lieutenant Derek Alligood is a 30 year veteran of the Orange County Fire Rescue Department. He shares some defining moments of his career and some awesome leadership advice for anyone who is striving to be a better leader. Derek is a legendary smart ass that is sure to make you chuckle. He talks about some of his life's greatest influences and how a call less than a month from his retirement almost killed him and 2 firefighters.
2020-11-271h 26From Embers To Excellence™Lieutenant McKnight InterviewLT McKnight discusses his leadership philosophy, offers his perspective on leading in high stress environments, and shares some pivotal experiences that helped shape him personally and professionally.
2020-11-201h 04From Embers To Excellence™Firefighter Marlon Moye-MooreIn this episode Firefighter Moye-Moore talks about his time as a linebacker for the University of Maryland and for the Orlando Predators in the AFL. We discuss leadership and the people who influenced his life and career. As always, we have a conversation centered around opportunities that came out of life changing decisions. This episode is a great one.
2020-11-131h 25From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Lieutenant Julio RamosRetired Battalion Chief Dave Hollenbach interviews Special Operations Lieutenant Julio Ramos. The discussion centers around leadership philosophy and personal development to be better equipped to add value to the members of the team.
2020-11-061h 21From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Battalion Chief Garrett WienckowskiGarrett Wienckowski is a 20+ year veteran of Orange County Fire Rescue, a battalion chief, TF4 Team Leader, special operations technician, and leadership instructor. In this episode Garrett talks about his experiences as an officer in special operations, what has influenced him most in his career, and recommends training courses that are applicable to every firefighter. We discuss Lencioni’s Pyramid and the book “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink. Garrett talks about his son following in his footsteps and how proud he is of him; he gives some advice for new firefighters, a group which happens to include his son.
2020-10-301h 05From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Kelly Savage, Community Outreach Director for the IAFF Center of ExcellenceKelly Savage is the community outreach director for the IAFF Center of Excellence. She assisted with opening the Center of Excellence in 2017. She spends much of the year traveling the U.S. and Canada educating members on behavioral health issues and services available to them through the Center. She has spoken to over 50,000 IAFF members through the International’s peer support program, Partner Education Program (PEP) events, health and safety symposiums and state and district conventions. She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi with a degree in broadcast journalism, specializations in public relations and media management and a...
2020-10-231h 07From Embers To Excellence™Interview with Stuart Cody, MHS, LMHC, CRC, CISMStuart Cody has a Master’s of Health Science and Rehabilitation Counseling from UF and is a licensed mental health counselor in central Florida. He is a rehabilitation / mental health counselor providing EMDR & CBT therapy. We discuss his experience with public safety professionals (Cops and Firefighters); Particularly, the causes and effects of PTSD in those occupations; Treatments like EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy; Polyvagal Theory and the effects of PTSD in effective decision-making processes.
2020-10-1651 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Engineer Tim JonesTim and I discuss Black Lives Matter, Women in the Fire Service, having conversations with people who have different views from our own, and his experiences developing as a fire service leader.
2020-10-091h 40From Embers To Excellence™Officer Jody BeyerIn this episode I talk with Officer Jody Beyer; A 14-year veteran of law enforcement who has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. We talk about her experiences as a patrol officer who has fought against corrupt behavior within 2 different agencies. Also, how she overcame malicious prosecution for acting as a whistleblower. She talks about her philosophy on leadership and we discuss her appearance as a speaker on the TED X stage where she spoke about policing the police. This is a can’t miss episode if you are looking to improve as an ethical leader.
2020-10-021h 15From Embers To Excellence™Michael Freeman, LCSW InterviewIn this episode we discuss the effects of PTSD on leadership, workforce diversity, inclusive culture, and what effective leadership looks like. Michael Freeman has a Master’s Degree in Social Work and is a licensed clinical social worker in central Florida. Not only is he a social worker, but he is an executive coach and a life coach, an organizational consultant and a community social worker. In addition to all of that, he works with teams and organizations in the areas of change management, culturally competent leadership development, and diversity, inclusion, equity and social justice. He served as...
2020-09-221h 30From Embers To Excellence™Captain Mike Yetter InterviewToday’s guest is Michael Yetter, a great friend, a captain with Miami Dade Fire Rescue and a veteran of the United States Army and Army National Guard. Mike began his career in the fire service with Miami Dade in 1998. He worked his way up the ranks, becoming a very well-respected fire officer and paramedic. He has served in some of the busiest stations Dade County has to offer. He has served in leadership positions and been deployed in various capacities on Miami Dade’s USAR team/TF1 which is a state and federal asset. He currently serves his depa...
2020-09-2234 minFrom Embers To Excellence™Major Donahoo, USAF InterviewIn this episode we discuss Dario's personal leadership development; the lessons learned in the various positions he has held in the Air Force and Fire Department; and his growth as a servant to the community, husband, and father.Dario Donahoo is an engineer/driver operator with Orange County Fire Rescue and a close personal friend. Dario began his career in the fire service with Orange County in 2011. He has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida and is a Major in the Air Force Reserve. He has served in some of th...
2020-09-221h 19
Closet CasesSeason 2 Episode 3: David HodorowskiDavid Hodorowski talks about his first kiss with a guy based on a dare, moving in with his first boyfriend immediately and his supportive mother going with him to a Matthew Shephard memorial.
2018-10-1841 min
Closet CasesSeason 1 Episode 5: David HodorowskiDavid Hodorowski discusses his dad in the slammer and the touching side of coming out of the closet.
2010-01-3111 min