Shows
Veteran LedClarity Over Chaos: John Krotec on NeoMasculinity, Leadership, and the Power of SilenceWhat if the biggest challenge men face today isn’t weakness—but noise?In this compelling episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry welcomes John Krotec, a U.S. Army veteran, speaker, and founder of NeoMasculinity Solutions. Together, they explore the dangers of modern misinformation, the collapse of authentic leadership, and how stoicism, silence, and clarity are becoming critical tools for navigating a world drowning in chaos.Krotec introduces the Sentinel Mindset—a model of masculine leadership built on awareness, accountability, and emotional discipline. According to Krotec, today’s leaders aren’t just fighting external t...2025-07-2219 min
Veteran LedCamp Cowboy: Breaking Horses, Healing Humans – A Veteran’s Path to PurposeWhat does it really mean to be a cowboy—and can horsemanship heal the human soul?In this gripping episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry rides into the heart of Texas to meet Lane Robison, Program Director of Camp Cowboy, a powerful 90-day program that uses horses, sweat, and soul-searching to help veterans, active-duty military, and first responders rediscover purpose, rebuild communication, and reconnect with their families.Lane, a second-generation horseman who took over the reins from his father, shares how breaking horses mirrors the process of helping humans overcome trauma and reclaim th...2025-07-1521 min
Veteran LedMake a Difference Every Day: How LTC (Ret.) Scott Robison Turns Purpose into ActionIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with veteran, entrepreneur, and Camp Cowboy founder LTC (Ret.) Scott Robison for a candid and insightful conversation on initiative, leadership, and how to build trust in business and in life.Scott shares how a joke about stolen valor turned into a hard lesson about assumptions and recognition — and how it led to being honored with a Navy Achievement Medal by a stunned general. But this episode goes beyond military stories. It’s about what happens when veterans step back into civilian life and are ready to buil...2025-07-0815 min
Veteran LedLeadership at the Speed of Trust: MG (Ret.) Dusty Shultz’s Mission to Empower TeamsIn this episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry sits down with MG (Ret.) Dusty Shultz, a trailblazing Army officer who’s redefining what leadership looks like after service. From director of intelligence at SOUTHCOM to her current mission advising companies and empowering teams, Dusty brings clarity, compassion, and candor to every conversation.With more than three decades in uniform—and a transition plan that started three years before retirement—Dusty offers hard-earned wisdom on navigating change with intention. She shares what it means to lead without ego, build trust at speed, and stay missio...2025-07-0121 min
Veteran LedFrom Addiction to Impact: Richard Kaufman’s Comeback Story“I started living for what I can do—not what I can’t do.” — Richard KaufmanIn this powerful episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry welcomes Richard Kaufman—Army Veteran, best-selling author, and host of the Vertical Momentum Resiliency podcast—known nationwide as The Comeback Coach. From addiction and homelessness to blindness and recovery, Richard’s incredible journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.Discover how Richard:Survived trauma, addiction, and vision lossGot back into the military after a bad conduct dischargeLaunched a top-ranked podcast with 3M+ downloadsBuilt a brand empoweri...2025-06-2432 min
Veteran LedLeading with Authenticity: Matthew Marsden’s Mission to Honor Veterans Through FilmIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with actor and producer Matthew Marsden, known for his roles in Black Hawk Down, Rambo, and Transformers. Though not a Veteran himself, Marsden has become a passionate advocate for the military community through his work on and off the screen.Marsden shares how his experience training with Army Rangers for Black Hawk Down fundamentally shaped his respect for service members and inspired a lifelong commitment to telling authentic Veteran stories. He discusses the importance of accuracy in military portrayals, his personal connections with Veterans, and the...2025-06-1735 min
Veteran LedMandatory Fun Day: How Humor, Grit, and Service Fuel a Viral Voice for VeteransIn this episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry sits down with Army officer and viral military influencer Austin von Letkemann, better known as Mandatory Fun Day. With a decade as an enlisted soldier before commissioning, Austin delivers raw, hilarious, and brutally honest insights about military life — from barracks blunders to leadership that forgets birthdays but remembers formation at 0500.Austin shares how humor isn’t just a coping tool — it’s a leadership strategy. He’s built a massive online following by “going after bullies,” calling out dysfunction, and giving voice to the frustrations of everyday troops. But be...2025-06-1026 min
Veteran LedTop Leadership MythsThink leaders always eat last? Never take flak? Always confident? Think again. In this raw and real episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry debunks 3 of the biggest leadership myths holding teams back. If you're serious about leading well—especially under pressure—this is the one you can’t miss.2025-05-2718 min
Okie SmokinCooking Beyond Vision: How The Blind Kitchen Empowers GrillersSend John & Dolores a Text Message.Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, shares how her organization helps visually impaired people reclaim their passion for grilling and outdoor cooking through specialized tools and techniques. Having graduated from culinary school as one of the only blind students in her class, Debra now uses her expertise to help others navigate cooking with vision loss.• Adaptive tools for grilling include talking thermometers that announce temperatures aloud• Extended grilling gloves protect arms when reaching over open flames• Double spatulas help secure food when flipping, solving a major challe...2025-05-2647 min
Veteran LedMission-Ready Vendors: Building a Team That Aligns, Delivers, and ElevatesIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry explores the critical role of external partners—your attachments and detachments—in achieving organizational success. Drawing parallels to military operations, John discusses how to identify aligned vendors, assess contracts, manage expectations, and avoid costly mistakes. With firsthand stories of collaboration, failure, and redemption, this episode offers practical frameworks for choosing consultants and vendors who elevate your mission rather than hinder it. Whether you're scaling a business or hiring your first vendor, these lessons will help you lead with clarity and accountability. 2025-05-2025 min
Veteran LedLeading with Urgency: Steven Kuhn’s Journey from the Military to Multimillion-Dollar DealsIn this episode of Veteran Led, host John Berry sits down with Bronze Star recipient and Gulf War Veteran Steven Kuhn—author of Unleash Your Humble Alpha and co-founder of Novascale Partners. Steven shares how military principles like urgency, adaptability, and unwavering purpose fueled his rise from a post-service identity crisis to leading billion-dollar international deals. You’ll hear lessons from the battlefield to the boardroom, the story behind the “humble alpha” mindset, and how Veterans can tap into their authentic identity to lead with confidence, clarity, and conviction. Whether you're transitioning out of the military, leading a business, or findi...2025-05-1344 min
Veteran LedFrom Ecstasy to Educator: A Soldier’s Fall and RedemptionHooked from the first pill, headed for Leavenworth. In this gripping episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with David Mike—former soldier, convicted drug dealer, and now author of Dishonor. From a broken leg at Airborne School to the darkness of addiction and the light of redemption, this is a raw, emotional journey of failure, faith, and finding purpose after disgrace. You won't believe where his story ends—or begins again.2025-05-0630 min
Veteran LedYou Can’t Save a Loser: Why Great Leaders Build Great TeamsYou can’t change the people around you—but you can change who you’re around. John Berry breaks down elite leadership and building A-player teams.2025-04-2206 minOkie SmokinThe Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Debate: Smokers, Grills and GriddlesSend John & Dolores a Text Message.The age-old debate of smoker versus griddle takes center stage as John and Dolores Berry share their strong opinions about which cooking method reigns supreme for different foods. Dolores passionately defends her preference for smash burgers on the griddle – thin, crispy, and stacked double with melty cheese – while insisting steaks belong exclusively on the pellet grill. Meanwhile, John reminisces about how their preferences have evolved through years of outdoor cooking experimentation.The conversation takes a creative turn as the hosts recount some of their strangest cooking experiments, from peanut butt...2025-04-1438 min
Veteran LedConditioned to Win: Why Metrics Matter Less Than MomentsNumbers track our progress, but they don’t tell our story. In this episode, John S. Berry breaks down why true leadership isn’t found in statistics, but in the moments we rise after failure. Learn how veterans are conditioned to win through relentless preparation, resilience, and character under pressure. Subscribe and discover how to turn your toughest challenges into defining victories—both in business and in life. 2025-04-0805 min
Veteran LedFrom Command to Culture: LTG (Ret.) Jody Daniels on Leadership, Readiness & MetricsIn this powerful episode of Veteran Led, host John Berry sits down with trailblazer Lieutenant General Jody Daniels, Ret., the first woman to command the U.S. Army Reserve. With over 41 years of military service and a successful civilian career at Lockheed Martin, Dr. Daniels shares raw insights on what it takes to lead nearly 200,000 service members, challenge outdated systems, and reshape military culture.From battling meaningless metrics to advocating for tough, realistic training done safely, General Daniels walks us through her evolution as a leader—and why embracing transparency, empowering junior leaders, and pushing for policy ch...2025-04-0153 min
Veteran LedLeadership and Strategy: Optimizing Financial Health with Marine Veteran Emery WagerWhat happens when a Marine officer, Silicon Valley engineer, and fintech disruptor builds a better way for law firms to get paid? On this episode of Veteran Led, host John Berry sits down with Emery Wager, co-founder & CEO of Confido Legal. From combat tours in Afghanistan to streamlining cash flow for thousands of law firms, Emery shares why financial clarity is the lifeblood of legal success—and how great leadership starts with ownership. Tune in for real talk on accountability, client experience, and the business side of law that too many attorneys ignore.2025-03-2527 min
Veteran LedBuild vs. Buy: Scaling Your Business with Navy Veteran Travis MackIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Travis Mack, Chairman and CEO of Saalex Corporation, as he shares valuable lessons on scaling businesses. A decorated Navy Veteran turned successful entrepreneur; Travis breaks down the crucial decisions leaders face when growing their organizations.Key Takeaways:• How to identify when to develop internal talent vs. hiring externally • The evolution of company culture through different growth stages • Why structure and oversight increase with organizational growth • The importance of tactical empathy in leadership • Creating equity opportunities to...2025-03-1830 min
Veteran LedFrom Navy Corpsman to Rock Star: Dave Bray's Journey of Continued ServiceIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Dave Bray, former Navy Corpsman and Marine Corps Veteran turned rock star, as he shares his remarkable journey from serving with the Marines to becoming a prominent voice in patriotic rock music. Dave discusses how his military service shaped his music career and his ongoing mission to honor Veterans and first responders through powerful performances.Featured Quote: "You still swore an oath. You still owe that oath to the people of America, and you need to continue some service. Don't just go disa...2025-03-1129 min
Veteran LedFrom Military Intelligence to CEO: Leadership Lessons with Yolanda ClarkeIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Yolanda Clarke, a former Army Intelligence Officer who has successfully transitioned into the role of CEO at Powder River Industries. Named after her Wyoming roots, Yolanda shares how authenticity and transparency shaped her company's identity while navigating the challenges of building a business during frequent PCS moves as a military spouse. Her unique perspective on leadership, shaped by her military experience, offers invaluable insights on pushing high performers beyond their comfort zones and maintaining high standards in the civilian business world.Through compelling stor...2025-03-0435 min
Veteran LedFrom Nuclear Command and Control to Veteran Support: Leadership Insights with Barb CarsonIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Barb Carson, Managing Director of Programs and Services at the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. In this powerful episode of Veteran Led, Air Force Veteran Barb Carson shares invaluable insights on leadership, transition, and Veteran support. As a leader at IVMF (Institute for Veterans and Military Families), Barb discusses how military experience shapes civilian success.Key Takeaways:Translating military skills to civilian careersThe importance of building strong support networksLeadership principles that transcend sectorsHow IVMF suppo...2025-02-2521 min
Veteran LedFrom Military Service to Veteran Support: How IVMF is Transforming Veterans' Lives with Ray ToenniessenIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Ray Toenniessen, Deputy Executive Director of the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. Through IVMF's innovative programs, including Onward to Opportunity and their entrepreneurship initiatives, the institute serves over 20,000 service members, Veterans, and military families annually.Ray offers insights into authentic leadership development, drawing from both his military experience and civilian career. The conversation delves deep into what makes an effective leader, emphasizing the importance of being present and avoiding ego-driven decision-making. Ray's perspective on translating military leadershi...2025-02-1819 min
Veteran LedEmpowering Veteran Entrepreneurs: Insights from JPMorganChase’s Terry HillIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Terry Hill, the Co-Head of Emerging Middle Market and Co-Head of Veteran Initiatives for JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking. Hill – a U.S. Army Veteran and a West Point graduate – helps lead the firm’s efforts to support veteran and military spouse founders and business leaders. Hill plays an active role in CEOcircle, a program for veteran and military-spouse entrepreneurs led by D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University (IVMF) and sponsored by JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking. Berry and Hill delve into the c...2025-02-1122 min
Veteran LedVeteran, Mother, Entrepreneur with Jennifer VollbrechtIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Jennifer Vollbrecht, CEO of J. Volbrecht Consulting and author of My Mom is a Veteran. From her beginnings as a Marine Corps crew chief to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Jennifer shares her story of transformation and leadership.Jennifer discusses a moment in her career that led her to pursue entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. She highlights how military discipline and planning skills translate into effective project management, a crucial element for success in any field. Jennifer also shares her experiences with both...2025-02-0416 min
Veteran LedLeadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship with Kelo MakeleleIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Kelo Makelele, an Army Veteran and Direct of Operations at RedTrace Technologies since 2018. Kelo Makelele successfully transitioned from IT and Cyber Operations in the Army to a cyber security career in the private sector. We delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on modern businesses and how it’s shaping the future. Kelo also discusses his decision to venture into entrepreneurship and the factors that influenced his choice. Drawing from his military background, Kelo talks about the essential leadership qualities that have hel...2025-01-2819 min
Veteran LedSteve Russell - From Capturing Saddam Hussein to Continuing to Serve Through JAARSIn this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Steve Russell, the Army battalion commander who led Task Force 1-22 Infantry in the historic capture of Saddam Hussein. Russell shares the details of tracking Saddam through his network of trusted families and the ultimate successful raid in December 2003.Beyond his military service, Russell discusses his continued dedication to public service as an Oklahoma State Senator and U.S. Congressman, where he championed veteran causes including the Uniform Spouse Protection Act reform. His journey from battlefield commander to manufacturer and elected official demonstrates the...2025-01-2152 min
Veteran LedYour Leadership Legacy – Lessons from Lt. Col. Oakland McCullochIn Episode 104 of Veteran Led, John S. Berry hosts Lieutenant Colonel Retired Oakland McCulloch, renowned leadership expert and author of Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be.Oak dives deep into the timeless principles of leadership, sharing how trust, service, and adaptability can elevate teams and organizations. From lessons learned in the military to adapting those skills in civilian life, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to lead with integrity and purpose.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why trust is the foundati...2025-01-1432 min
Veteran LedBuilding Veteran Support Networks with USMC Scout Sniper Association CEO JT TaylorIn this episode of Veteran Led, John Berry sits down with JT Taylor, CEO of the USMC Scout Sniper Association, to explore the vital work of building support networks for veterans and their families.JT shares his journey from Marine Scout Sniper to veteran advocate, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of leading a nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans. Learn how the USMC Scout Sniper Association provides mentorship, financial assistance, and critical resources while preserving the legacy of Marine Scout Snipers.Learn more about the USMC Scout Sniper Association at scoutsniper.org and the...2025-01-0740 min
Veteran LedIs This the Best You Can Do?In this episode of Veteran Led, John Berry challenges leaders to ask the tough question: “Is this the best you can do?” He dives into the mindset of continuous improvement, explaining why “your best” today should only be a steppingstone to what you can achieve tomorrow.John shares personal stories, including lessons from hiring coaches, building high-performing teams, and developing new skills—even when it meant starting from scratch. This episode is a reminder that great leaders lead by example, embrace growth, and never settle for “good enough”.2024-12-3107 minOkie SmokinUnveiling 2024's Most Mouthwatering MomentsSend John & Dolores a Text Message.We celebrate the end of 2024 by reflecting on our top five culinary creations from the year, sharing highlights and memorable cooking experiences. Join us as we explore the dishes that made it to the top and what inspired their unique flavors.• Dolores shares her top five countdown, starting with the Ultimate Pickled Pepper Sandwich • John's Taco Crunch Wrap joins the list with its convenient, flavorful mix • The perfect New York Strip shines for Dolores, showcasing easy cooking perfection • John’s Alligator Four Cheese Dip introduces a daring delica...2024-12-3026 min
Veteran LedLeading Through the HolidaysIn this episode of Veteran Led, John Berry shares practical advice for leading your team during the holiday season. From bonuses and holiday parties to showing genuine appreciation, John explains how great leadership sets the stage for success in the new year.The best holiday leadership isn’t about extravagant gifts or mandatory fun—it’s about understanding your team, showing genuine appreciation, and setting the stage for success in the new year.2024-12-2410 min
The Business Owner's JourneyJohn DiJulius and Nick Berry Discuss How All Business Problems Are Leadership ProblemsThe '12 Days of Business' Mini-SeriesDay 5: John DiJulius and Nick Berry Discuss How All Business Problems Are Leadership ProblemsGet all '12 Days of Business' here.Episode Summary: In this insightful conversation, Nick Berry interviews John DiJulius, president of The DiJulius Group and a global authority on world-class customer and employee experience. John breaks down the biggest challenge in business leadership: how unprepared “accidental managers” can sabotage team morale. He also explains why leadership today demands two previously overlooked skills: managing remote staff and addressing employee mental health. John’s prac...2024-12-1807 min
Veteran LedTraining vs. FamiliarizationIn this milestone 100th episode of Veteran Led, John Berry tackles a leadership lesson: the difference between familiarization and true training. He shares a personal failure in replacing hands-on training with videos and web-based content, leading to increased mistakes within his team. John breaks down the four essential steps of effective training: familiarization, practical application, mastery through practice, and advancement to higher-level skills.This episode provides leaders with a clear framework for developing robust training programs that go beyond basic familiarization to achieve true operational excellence.2024-12-1704 min
Veteran LedClarity Sells – Lessons in Branding with Reggie OrdonezIn this episode of Veteran Led, John Berry sits down with Reggie Ordonez, Marine Corps Veteran and founder of Forward Brands, to discuss the power of clarity in branding and leadership. Reggie shares his philosophy on why "clarity sells," how simplicity can drive success, and the importance of truly understanding your audience.Drawing from his experiences as a Marine and a branding expert, Reggie reveals how to identify core customer needs, craft messages that resonate, and align your personal and professional goals for lasting impact. Whether you're building a business, refining your brand, or leading a te...2024-12-1034 min
Veteran LedRewiring Your Organization - Breaking Systems to Build Better OnesIn this episode of Veteran Led, John Berry shares insights about organizational evolution and the courage to break working systems to build better ones. Drawing from his experience, John explains why leaders must view organizational growth as chapters, each building upon the last.He reveals how his company intentionally dismantled their administrative structure to become more agile and lethal, emphasizing that previous systems weren't failures but necessary foundations for growth. John challenges leaders to recognize when systems become inadequate and take proactive steps to rebuild them before they fail.2024-12-0303 min