The Jedburgh Podcast

#193: Progressive Traumatic Brain Injury - Silver Star Spouse Bianca Baldwin and Silver Star Mother Fran Wesseling

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:14:56 GMT

Service is an honor and a burden carried by more than just those who don the Green Beret. Service is borne by the family that stands in the shadows every step of the way. Through training, deployments, uncertainty, the highest highs and the lowest lows, it’s the family that waits for their Green Beret to return.

From the 2nd Annual Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with Bianca Baldwin and Fran Wesseling, the spouse and mother of Major Darren Baldwin; a Green Beret who came home from combat, but was never the same.

Darren’s journey began at the United States Military Academy, where he played lacrosse and built the foundation of discipline, teamwork, and commitment that would carry him into Special Forces.

During a deployment, Darren was forced to return home early due to what initially seemed like minor health issues. Further evaluation revealed lesions on his brain, marking the beginning of a long and uncertain fight. Diagnosed with Progressive Traumatic Brain Injury, Bianca and Fran answered a family’s hardest call to service.

They shared with me the critical role a family plays in the success of a Green Beret, why strength is important, and how caregiving gives hope to the wounded and their loved ones.

Darren passed away from his combat-related illness, and to honor his life, Bianca and Fran carry forward his legacy through the MAJ(R) Darren Baldwin Silver Star Families Support Fund and through the support of the Green Beret Foundation, ensuring that other families will never fight alone.

This episode is about the service of a family during, and after that of their Green Beret.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:51 Welcome to the Stars & Stripes Classic
3:38 Who was MAJ Darren Baldwin
10:14 Silver Star Families Fund
15:02 Progressive Traumatic Brain Injury
22:20 Resources Available

QUOTES

“Both of my boys slept with a lacrosse stick.”
“He had a dedication and grit that goes beyond most.”
“Ultimately deeply grateful that his legacy and memory lives on.”
“It was like trying to make a right of a wrong.”
“That’s kind of how our story started and my story as a caregiver.”
“I was always his wife but became his 24/7 caregiver.”
“The vast majority of people, including the military, don’t even know what Silver Star families are.”
“The fund provides all kinds of medical equipment and new technologies.”
“It’s difficult and thankless work to be a caregiver.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by OneBrief; enabling military leaders to make innovative, informed and deliberate decisions faster than ever before. Superhuman command wins wars.

Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

#192: SSG Alex Viola Memorial Car Show - Gold Star Father Frank Viola

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:24:25 GMT

Cars aren’t just a mode of transportation. They’re a passion. An image. A lifestyle. For many families, they are the bond that brings together father and son. For Frank Viola, cars are the legacy of his son, Green Beret SSG Alex Viola.

Alex graduated as a Green Beret in 2011 and then went on to get his Combat Dive Certification. In September 2013, his team deployed to Afghanistan as a part of Operation Enduring Freedom. On November 17, 2013 Alex lost his life to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) while on dismounted patrol.

After the loss of their son, Frank and his family faced the unimaginable challenge of how to move forward. The answer came from something Alex loved deeply: cars. Alex was a true car guy, and restoring vehicles with his dad was one of the ways they spent time together.

What began as a simple idea to honor Alex’s memory turned into the SSG Alex Viola Memorial Car Show. The first event was held in freezing weather with modest expectations, but the community showed up, raising twenty thousand dollars that first year alone.

Today the event has grown into something far greater than anyone imagined. Nearly four hundred cars fill the lot each year, and the show has raised nearly seven hundred thousand dollars to support charitable causes, including the families of Green Berets through the Green Beret Foundation.

Host Fran Racioppi sits down with Frank Viola to share how this fundraiser is more than impressive horsepower and jaw-dropping donations. It’s a powerful story of resilience, community, and how one family's determination not only honors a fallen hero but has also remarkably reunited their own distant family members and created a new, unbreakable bond with Alex’s former Green Beret teammates.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:57 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
2:22 Who was SSG Alex Viola?
6:11 Why a Car Show?
10:05 How loss brought the family together
12:34 Alex’s Team
16:03 The 2025 Show
17:02 Working with the Foundations
18:36 Advice for Future Green Berets

Quotes

“Alex was a father’s dream of a son.”
“His whole thing was to be out there in the ditches with the guys.”
“Alex was a car guy.”
“In a million years, we never expected anything like it.”
“We have a goal of reaching $1,000,000 in donations.”
“There’s been some of my cousins that I’ve never met, but because of this, now we’re really close.”
“They’re like our own kids.”
“Losing Alex was probably the worst thing that could ever happen to any parent.”
“It’s just been a win win all the way around.”
“They know we’re always going to do the right thing.”
“The whole theme of both organizations is supporting the families of fallen and wounded warriors’ families.”
“I don’t think that anyone can just become a Green Beret. You have to be a special kind of person.”
“It’s either you have it or you don’t.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by OneBrief; enabling military leaders to make innovative, informed and deliberate decisions faster than ever before. Superhuman command wins wars.

#191: Last General Standing - Final Commander Of The Afghan National Army, General Haibatullah Alizai

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:04:00 GMT

In August 2021, the world watched in disbelief as Afghanistan collapsed, leaving two decades of sacrifice, hope, and war in question. America’s longest war, forged in the aftermath of 9/11 and costing thousands of lives and billions of dollars, ended in chaos, confusion, and the swift return of the Taliban. But what truly happened in those final, frantic days? Who held the line until the line was irrevocably gone?

In this exclusive interview, host Fran Racioppi sat down with General Haibatullah Alizai, the final Chief of the Afghan National Army, now living in exile. General Alizai offers a raw, firsthand account of the challenges, the political decisions, and the human cost that led to the nation’s swift downfall. From the initial hope sparked by the post-9/11 intervention to the crushing weight of the Taliban's propaganda machine, he confronts the harsh realities faced by Afghan forces and the devastating decisions that altered the course of history.

Discover the candid perspective of a warrior who fought for a country that no longer exists. General Alizai speaks on loyalty, the pervasive impact of corruption, the strategic failures that enabled the Taliban's resurgence, and his powerful message to the American service members who served alongside him.

War provides Warriors perspective. Is it possible to reclaim what was lost? And was the 20-year commitment truly worth the cost? Dive into the complexity of war, the human reality behind America’s longest conflict, and the future of a nation still searching for stability in the shadow of the Taliban. This is the untold story of the Afghan Army's last stand.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:51 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
5:11 Afghanistan, 2001
19:23 America’s Goal In Afghanistan
28:51 Afghan Sentiment
30:00 Taliban Propaganda
36:39 Taliban Today
43:30 US Soldiers in Afghanistan
49:29 Can Afghanistan be reclaimed?
52:51 Leaving Family
59:20 Future of Afghanistan

Quotes:

“You have to have a steel-made ass to be in the Army.”
“Kunduz collapsed in September 2015 because coordination was poor.”
“We are not going to sit. We are going to solve the problem.”
“In the last five days of collapse, I became the Chief of the entire Army.”
“I believe the Americans came to Afghanistan to punish their enemies who coordinated the attack in New York.”
“Who else has fought more than Afghans for freedom.”
“They started with chopping heads.”
“The poppies became popular during the first Taliban term.”
“They all became strength points to the Taliban and weak points to us.”
“When we really understood what was going on, it was a bit too late.”
“The only thing the Taliban is still doing is brutality.”
“Before the US came to Afghanistan, there was a civil war.”
“Now we have thousands of warlords in Afghanistan.”
“We lost thousands of people and all those lives were dedicated to support the humanity and democracy the right way."
“Have we left something unfinished?”
“We should find a way to finish the unfinished business.”
“The Taliban has destroyed the Afghan history and honor.”
“The Taliban are 10 times more vulnerable than 2001.”
“Next is change. It has to happen.”
“It will be a question that will bring hesitation.”
“I believe we are just a whistle away from bringing the change in Afghanistan.”
“What country in the world can do everything on their own?”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by Onebrief; enabling military leaders to make innovative, informed and deliberate decisions faster than ever before. Superhuman command wins wars.

#190: Building The Unified Global Special Operations Alliance - CSM(R) Warren Soeldner

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 10:27:35 GMT

Unified Special Operations commands are critical for allied nations to maintain the advantage over our adversaries. A single command structure enables interoperability at every level, from communications and equipment to tactics and acquisition, ensuring partner forces can train together, fight together, and answer to a common mission.

From the Global Special Operations Foundation Symposium in Athens, Greece, Fran Racioppi sat down with retired Command Sergeant Major Warren Soeldner, a 10th SFG legend who now lives and works in Greece supporting the Global SOF community.

Warren brought home the central tenet of modern allied warfare explaining that Special Operations Forces across nations solve problems together, build trust, and operate as one.

He spoke about the importance of standing up capable national SOF commands, the evolving NATO environment and the realities of today’s threat landscape. From Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the long-term strategic pressure posed by China and Iran, Warren emphasized that modern conflict cannot be viewed through a single lens. War now spans diplomatic, informational, military, and economic domains, and Special Forces play a critical role in shaping outcomes long before conflict becomes visible.

This discussion returns to what Green Berets have always done best: building capability in partners, understanding history and culture, maintaining discipline and professionalism, and quietly shaping global security in ways few ever see.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:41 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
2:48 Building Relationships Across SOF Allies
5:38 Joint Unified Command
9:15 Defining “By, With, and Through”
12:38 Russia-Ukraine War Impact on NATO
15:08 NATO Interoperability Gaps
17:28 NATO’s Biggest Threat
23:14 Students of History
27:50 Special Forces in LSCO
32:38 US Army Generations
41:38 Defining the Green Beret

Quotes

“The whole theme for the week has been strength and unity.”
“The dollar or euro goes a lot further for them when it’s a unified command.”
“The threat isn’t waiting on 30 nations and their parliaments.”
“It’s important that NATO know, fight, train together.”
“When one country is using one standard and the rest of the countries are using another standard, resupply becomes a lot harder for that country.”
“At the end of the day, we’re all out on the same battlefield and they’re seeing what we’re doing, we’re seeing what they’re doing.”
“Russia is a huge threat right now. We may be getting to hyperfocused on that and forgetting other threats like China and Iran.”
“We’ve lost that edge with the adversary. They have a long term plan. We don’t.”
“It requires our Green Berets to be students of history.”
“I came up in an era where we did two things: Unconventional Warfare and Foreign Internal Defense.”
“First you had to learn the culture.”
“When I look at Large Scale Combat Operations, do we need artillery anymore?”
“In that isolation is where you finetune the skills that you need for that mission.”
“There’s nothing special about being a Green Beret.”
“I’ve always been a believer that the Green Beret is a symbol and it attracts greatness.”
“At the end of the day, the Army’s job is to close with and kill the enemy.”

#189: Building Army Warriors - Sergeant Major of the Army Mike Weimer & CSM (R) Rick Merritt

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:32:00 GMT

What separates war fighting from a warrior? Is it skill? Is it experience? Or is it something deeper that only reveals itself when it matters most?

From the Pentagon, Fran Racioppi sat down with Sergeant Major of the Army Mike Weimer and retired Command Sergeant Major Rick Merritt to discuss what it truly means to build and sustain warriors in the United States Army.

CSM Merritt spent over three decades on active duty, including 25 years in the 75th Ranger Regiment, serving in every enlisted leadership position from rifleman to Regimental Sergeant Major. He conducted over 1,500 combat operations under Joint Special Operations Command and served more than five years in combat task forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. His experience spans the full arc of modern warfare.

Together with the SMA, we unpack into the difference between technical proficiency and true warrior mindset, what commitment looks like when compliance disappears, and how leaders enforce standards without eroding trust.

We explore whether resilience is built over time or revealed under pressure, and how purpose sustains Soldiers when motivation begins to fade.

As warfare becomes more technical and systems driven, the SMA is challenging the force to ensure technology enhances the warrior. Future conflict will demand innovation and the technological edge, but victory on the battlefield will still be decided by human judgment, character, and leadership.

This is a conversation about standards, commitment, mental toughness, and the responsibility of leaders to hold the line…not just to engage in the business of war fighting, but to forge warriors ready to close with and destroy our nation’s adversaries.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
4:40 Defining An Army Warrior
14:02 Compliance to Commitment
20:02 What Is The Army Culture?
27:18 Why A Warrior Mindset Matters
38:52 How to Lead the War fighting Profession

QUOTES

“I see a warrior as the reason why we do it.”
“Make a difference with your presence. Otherwise, why are you there?”
“A warrior is a way of life.”
“Technology is not going to make up for the foundation.”
“A warrior is one that is dedicated, disciplined, willing to go the extra mile, will fight for those left and right, and never quit.”
“The best recruiters we have are our service members, our veterans.”
“How much is enough of these key attributes to take a risk on you and bring you in and start developing the rest of that?”
“There’s just some things about human beings that are going to be done on an individual’s basic timeline in life.”
“It’s not normal for this generation.”
“Combat readiness is a way of life.”
“Although I took the uniform off, my oath didn’t go away.”
“The guys on my team know that they’re in the right spot with the right people, with the right culture.”
“You’re consecrated into this culture that I got to find when I retire.”
“What makes that culture is character and character development.”
“That probably makes the difference in the world is where our NCO core is compared to other countries.”
“I’m a firm believer that the noncommissioned officer is the keeper of the culture.”
“I think that was our biggest challenge in Vietnam.”
“This profession, we hand you a machete and we say ‘Take that path.’”
“Grit comes through hardship.”
“At the end of the day, guys got to go on the ground.”
“We’re struggling a little bit in that space.”
“There’s no time limit on honorable service.”
“What is better than being a company commander?”
“Don’t be a pain in the ass. Be value added.”
“This is a journey, not a destination.”
“A legend is nothing but a man or woman who spent their life surrounding themselves with people better than them.”

#188: Veterans...Not Victims - Sheepdog The Movie Filmmaker Steven Grayhm

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:26:00 GMT

War stories are easy to tell. There’s action, adventure, and good vs evil. For most Veterans their service isn’t defined or explained by their war stories. For most Veterans the story that is far most difficult to write...and to live...is the story they have to write themselves.

In this episode, Fran Racioppi sat down with Steven Grayhm, writer and director of Sheepdog, a film dedicated to telling the most difficult story of our Veterans. The story of what happens to us, our families, our friends, and those around us when the war stories fade, reality sets in, and the hard work must actually begin.

Steven explains his 14 year journey to make Sheepdog, the thousands of hours he spent with Veterans of all walks of life, his embedment at VA hospitals across the country, and the reality of independent filmmaking; a blue collar process rooted in grit before the red carpet, where every dollar is raised face to face and every decision carries weight.

The film confronts veteran suicide honestly while reinforcing a simple truth. Ending your life does not end the pain. It ends the possibility of it ever getting better.

What drove Sheepdog was not an interest in war, but a responsibility to understand what happens after it. Steven and his team studied the realities of trauma, addiction, brain injury, generational differences between Vietnam and post 9/11 service members, and the long shadow that war can cast over identity and purpose. They went where the conversations were uncomfortable, where the answers were not clean, and where trust had to be earned. The result is a film that focuses not on combat, but on the war within.

Veterans are not victims. Sheepdog recognizes that service members volunteered, took risk, and earned something that does not disappear when the uniform comes off. A Veteran’s perspective matters. Trauma exists, but it does not eliminate the responsibility of Veterans to continue their personal and professional growth post service.

Sheepdog is a story about redefining purpose, about post traumatic growth, and about the courage required to take the first step forward when the path is unclear. It reflects the reality that transition is not a checklist, that no two experiences are the same, and that finding the right sense of mission after service is critical.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
3:42 Why make Sheepdog?
12:40 Addressing generational differences
16:38 The idea of perspective
21:34 Losing morality
29:52 Veteran Suicide
37:43 VA resources
1:03:40 Was it all for nothing?
1:08:34 Hope for Sheepdog

Quotes

“The hardest thing I ever have done wasn’t to become a Green Beret, it was to not be a Green Beret.”
“They train you so well to do that job that you never really understand what the result of that job actually looks like.”
“Whatever happens on the other side of this, I’m going to leave it there.”
“One of the most challenging things in this journey of Sheepdog was getting it right.”
“The warrior doesn’t get to choose the war they go into.”
“It haunted me in my nightmares for years that crack in the sheep pen wall.”
“The guys that I learned to be more worried about were the guys that smiled through the pain.”
“I get very nervous when people wax poetically about suicide because it comes in all different forms.”
“All the resources in the world can exist, but it doesn’t matter if you’re not willing to use them.”
“Veterans are not victims.”
“In the film you would see, no one feels sorry for themselves.”
“I think we have to do better as a veteran to remove the victim mindset.”
“If we could save a single life with this film, that would be the greatest Hollywood success story."

#187: NATO Leading Innovation - DIANA Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Benitez

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:44:00 GMT

The speed of innovation has long been the difference between military success and failure. Countries and militaries that rapidly develop, deploy and evolve technology thrive. Those who lag…flounder. America, NATO and the world order are being challenged…and innovated against…at a faster pace than ever before.

From the Global SOF Symposium in Athens, Greece, I sat down with Ryan Benitez of NATO DIANA to talk about how innovation, technology, and rapid capability development are shaping the future of defense across the Alliance.

As the DIANA’s Chief Commercial Officer, Ryan explains her work inside one of NATO’s most forward-leaning organizations. DIANA, the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic, connects startups, researchers, and industry leaders to solve some of the most urgent challenges facing allied militaries.

From emerging technologies to dual-use solutions, DIANA is helping NATO move faster, stay adaptable, and maintain an edge in an increasingly competitive global environment.

Ryan also shared how her experience in the Navy and Venture Capital informs her approach to modern innovation, why collaboration between nations and private industry is more critical than ever, and how DIANA is empowering new ideas that can redefine readiness, resilience, and operational effectiveness to not only keep pace, but move faster than our enemies.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:37 Welcome to GSOF Europe
3:06 Defining NATO DIANA
5:25 Companies Supporting NATO
9:23 Filling Technological Gaps
11:15 Time to Technology
13:44 NATO’s Leading Innovators
14:57 Compelling Countries To Invest
16:49 Is NATO behind Adversaries?
20:21 Defining Readiness
22:17 The Next Battlefield
24:40 NATO DIANA Future

Quotes:

“We needed to access the emerging technologies that innovators were putting together.”
“Does this technology align with a critical capability need that an operator and user has brought to the table?”
“Team is everything.”
“Interoperability has different scales.”
“The flavor of the month is Counter-UAS.”
“The Special Operations community has always been early adapters of streamlined acquisition and innovation.”
“We’ve seen the Netherlands do a lot.”
“We’re keeping a pulse on the market and the demand signal.”
“How can we help you with your innovation base?”
“We’re seeing a lot of lessons learned in Ukraine. The innovation cycle there is weeks.”
“The word defense used to not be top of mind. It is now.”
“We need to make sure we’re acting as a bridge to the emerging technology market.”
“Cost is going to become an issue.”
“War isn’t front and center every day like it is in Europe.”
“You’re going to start seeing our ability to really rapidly spin up.”

#186: Communication Wins Wars - Former Chief Technology And Innovation Officer at USSOCOM & US Space Force Dr. Lisa Costa

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:21:00 GMT

Communication is the backbone of every military operation. How well our forces talk to each other across air, land, sea and space is what sets the American military apart from everyone else. Without communication leaders can’t lead, and militaries can’t win.

From the Global Special Operations Symposium in Athens, Greece, Fran Racioppi sat down with Dr. Lisa Costa, a leading technologist, former Chief Information Officer for U.S. Special Operations Command, and the first Chief Technology and Innovation Officer for the U.S. Space Force, to discuss how innovation, cyber, and modernization are reshaping Special Operations across all domains.

Dr. Costa brings decades of experience at the crossroads of defense, technology, and strategic innovation. From running one of the Department of Defense’s largest IT enterprises supporting elite global SOF operations to spearheading digital transformation efforts in the Space Force, she has helped architect the future of how our forces fight, communicate, and adapt.

She addressed the evolving threat landscape, including cyber attacks, space domain challenges and why staying ahead through technology, data, and innovation is no longer optional. She emphasized the importance of agility, integration, and forward-thinking capability as the bedrock of a modern force ready for tomorrow’s missions.

This discussion is about building advantage through technology, strengthening alliances across domains, and protecting America by ensuring the force evolves with the threat.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:36 Welcome to GSOF Europe
3:15 USSOCOM CIO & Space Force's CTIO
6:02 Communications Evolution
8:51 DoD Civilian Workforce
13:43 Special Operations LSCO
16:41 SOF Space Cyber Triad
19:24 The Space Battlefield
22:17 Lunar South Pole
24:35 War Today
26:18 Combatting misinformation
28:38 Defining AI
30:22 Human in the loop
31:33 Guardrailing AI Weaponization
34:06 Advancing Time to Technology
35:48 Citizen Based
37:06 Ground Level Innovation
40:46 Buying Commercial Resources
45:10 The Next Battlefield

Quotes

“I might be the only person wearing both a SOCOM and Space Force pin.”
“Communications is absolutely critical.”
“It has gone from big bulky equipment to a binary signal.”
“Civilians are part of the force.”
“I look at SOF as the tool and capability to prevent us going to war.”
“The best battle space is the one we never have to put a boot into.”
“There is not even a position, navigation, and timing capability on the lunar surface.”
“Is it the person who discovered it or the person who gets there first?”
“We’re fighting for data.”
“It’s not there because we’re using AI.”
“I do not define AI as just Large Language Models.”
“There are going to be mission specific incidents where AI is going to have to be trusted to make that decision.”
“Don’t sign up for Chinese AI.”
“Operation Spiderweb was one pilot to every drone. That is not scalable.”
“It’s going to have to take everyone.”
“It comes down to the operational planners that are doing that risk assessment.”
“I believe that we will rely greatly on commercial assets.”
“There are areas of space that we have not taken advantage of.”
“I hope that the future of the battle space is much more cognitive.”
“I always put the operator in charge of a project, not a PhD.”
“Always prepare for the next unknown mission.”

#185: Air To Ground Integration - Retired LTG Ken Tovo And Chief Warrant Officer Sean McCormick

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Who’s more important? The operators on the ground or the aviators in the sky? It’s hard to seize the objective without boots on the ground; but if you can’t get to the objective in the first place, there’s no mission at all.

The reality is that operators need aviators and aviators need operators. Green Berets and the pilots of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment share bonds that transcend their MOS and their mobility platform.

Live from the 2nd Annual Stars and Stripes Classic, I sat down with Chairman of the Green Beret Foundation retired Lieutenant General Ken Tovo and Chief Warrant Officer Sean McCormick to talk about what it takes to build true interoperability between air and ground units, and why there is no such term as “more important.”

Chief McCormick served as a lead pilot in the 160th SOAR after a career in 75th Ranger Regiment; he also served as General Tovo’s pilot while the General was the USASOC Commander. Their partnership and friendship provides a rare perspective on the leadership, trust, and relentless commitment that define Special Operations.

Together, they shared how those experiences shaped their understanding of teamwork, mission focus, and the ability to take on any challenge. They also share an unknown secret about GBF’s upcoming POW/MIA recovery missions with Project Recover.

The Stars and Stripes Classic is more than a lacrosse game. It’s a moment to honor the warriors who always step forward, the families who support them, and the community that preserves their legacy through the Green Beret and Navy SEAL Foundations. Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting another thrilling game.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:42 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
3:25 Service in the 160th SOAR
4:57 Defining Interoperability
6:15 Planning and Customer Centric in the 160th
10:54 Building a SOF team
14:08 Defining De Opresso Liber
16:00 Honoring MACV-SOG
18:30 Partnering with Project Recover

Quotes

“It was a great honor, great experience, and a lot of good stories about that.”
“Sometimes the most difficult and important part of a mission is actually just getting there.”
“You are the RCO’s representative when you’re the LNO.”
“We’re going to plan and rehearse as much as we possibly can before that mission takes place.”
“You can’t be an expert if you do more than one thing.”
“They’re problem solvers who figure out “What do I need to do to do what I signed up to accomplish.”
“No matter what happens, you’re going to accomplish the mission.”
“99% of the time, we’re working through a partner force to accomplish whatever our mission is.”
“Even in our own community, a lot of what MACV-SOG did is really not even part of the history because it’s been classified until recently.”
“58 Green Berets still are yet to be found in Vietnam from that era.”

#184: Building Elite Warriors - Premier Lacrosse League CEO Mike Rabil (2nd Annual Stars & Stripes Classic)

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Lacrosse is a sport built on passion, precision, and community. It’s also a sport that defines service. Live from the Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with Mike Rabil, co-founder and CEO of the Premier Lacrosse League, to highlight the PLL’s partnership with the Green Beret Foundation and explore how the sport of lacrosse is intertwined with American Special Operators.

A remarkable number of America’s Special Operators come from a lacrosse background. The sport builds toughness, discipline, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. The same qualities that define an elite operator and a key reason why so many lacrosse players serve in the military.

Mike shares his vision for building the PLL into the world’s only professional lacrosse organization. Now in its seventh season, the PLL is deeper, faster, and more competitive than ever, supported by partners who believe in the mission and the athletes who make it possible.

Together, the PLL and the Green Beret Foundation are proving that sport can be a force for impact. This partnership honors the athletes, the warriors, and the families who give so much, and it strengthens the connection between two communities built on grit, excellence, and service.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:21 Welcome to the Stars & Stripes Classic
2:50 PLL Progression
4:51 College to Pro
8:32 Leading up to the Second S&S Game
11:14 Lacrosse Discipline in Special Ops

Quotes

“50% of our games have been decided by just one goal this year.”
“Now the pressure’s on us to make it worthwhile.”
“These are the best lacrosse players in the world but some of the best athletes.”
“To incorporate endurance, strength, physicality, and the hand eye, those are things as a tier one operator you need.”
“Practice is the payoff for the eventual game.”
“The community is actually bigger than we think, the game means something to people and it's actually been misbranded.”
“They’re people of character.”
“I think athletics in general will teach you a certain level of discipline, resiliency, and adaptability that become critical to your ability to succeed.”

#183: Defending Eastern Europe - Romanian Special Operations Forces Commander Major General Claudiu Dobocan

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:19:26 GMT

Romania is one of America’s key allies in the fight for Eastern Europe. Romanian Special Forces are critical to the success of that mission; and the partnership between United States Special Operations and our Romanian counterparts sits at the center of that strategy.

From the Global Special Operations Symposium in Athens, Greece, Fran Racioppi sat down with Major General Claudiu Dobocan, Commander of the Romanian Special Operations Forces, to discuss how Romanian Special Operations are combatting Russian aggression and holding the line in Europe.

General Dobocan shared his perspective on strengthening SOF partnerships, advancing interoperability, and building modern capabilities that allow allied forces to operate seamlessly together. He spoke about Romania’s place within NATO, the importance of trust and shared mission across borders, and the need for Special Operations units to remain agile and prepared for the full spectrum of emerging threats.

From combating hybrid threats to maintaining readiness alongside allied SOF elements, General Dobocan emphasized that success today depends on relationships, shared understanding, and the willingness to stand together in the face of uncertainty.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:26 Welcome to GSOF Europe 2025
3:21 Mission of Romanian Special Operations Forces
8:45 Evolution of technology in SOF
10:45 Eliminating Human-in-the-Loop?
13:35 Changes in military tactics
16:57 Romanian Special Forces Mission
18:44 Why Join the Romanian Army?
20:06 NATO Alliance Importance
25:24 Leading against a Global Threat

Quotes

“We were created by cooperation between Romanian Ministry of Defense and US SOCEUR.”
“Interoperability, no one really talks about what that really means.”
“Words carrying value carry meaning.”
“Industry defines the speed of technological development.”
“The strategic game changer is generative AI.”
“I’m scared of the moment when everything is passed to AI.”
“I don’t think swarming is going to be the next way of doing battle.”
“Our mission is to be a strategic level instrument that helps with reaction to crisis and building partnerships and capabilities in the region.”
“10th Group and 20th Group came around and showed us what right looks like so I signed up.”
“It’s a tool that kind of prevents conflict.”
“NATO is the umbrella under which we share a lot of things that otherwise we cannot discuss about.”
“When you talk about the good work NATO has done, you have to talk about the standards.”
“We have to be deterrent on our part, but capable to move from military assistance type of missions into a very kinetic one.”

Special thanks to the Global Special Operations Foundation for hosting us in Athens.

#182: Special Operations In The Pacific - Philippine's Joint Special Operations Command Commander Brigadier General Eliglen Villaflor

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 09:00:00 GMT

America is not the only nation in a fight for freedom, stability, and security. International threats are complex, the missions are critical, and the operators leading them must think globally while acting locally.

The Philippines is one of America’s longest strategic allies. From their geographical importance of World War II, to their front lines combating Chinese expansion in the Pacific, the military partnership between the United States and the Philippines is an important part of global stability.

At the heart of this collaboration, is the Joint Special Operations Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. A force that has been shaped by decades of counterinsurgency, counterterrorism, and close partnership with America's Green Berets and Special Operations Forces.

From the Global Special Operations Foundation Symposium in Athens, Greece, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Commander of Joint Special Operations Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Brigadier General Eliglen Villaflor, to discuss the evolution of Special Operations in the Philippines, the lessons learned from years of conflict, and the country’s expanding role in regional and international security cooperation.

General Villaflor shared his perspective on leading through complexity, building true interoperability with partners like the United States, and preparing the next generation of Filipino Special Operators to face an ever-changing threat environment.

This episode is about partnership, professionalism, and the shared mission that connects Special Operations Forces around the world to defend freedom wherever it’s challenged.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:45 Welcome to GSOF Europe 2025
3:30 Mission of Philippines Joint Special Operations Command
5:28 JSOC Commander Challenges
8:21 Large Scale Combat Operations in the Philippines
11:48 Building relationships in SOF
15:54 Philippine Armed Forces Culture
18:22 Interoperability in the Philippines
19:33 Philippines’ biggest threat
23:31 Future of JSOC Philippines

Quotes

“We’re a family.”
“The Joint Special Operations Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was formally activated just last May.”
“I am the force employer.”
“The challenges will outweigh the positive impact of having JSOC.”
“The engagement with the U.S. counterpart has been more aggressive than before.”
“Our core mission is to work with other nations to achieve the combined goals of our nations.”
“I’m very glad I was given the opportunity to train with foreign counterparts, especially the U.S.”
“SOF are not only building trust, we are building family. We are family and we take care of each other.”
“People mostly join the Armed Forces because of low economic status.”
“I want to avail of the free education.”
“We are always leader centered.”
“We are now inculcating in our culture the word interoperability.”
"Aggressive, illegal, dangerous, and coercive action of China is very visible in our country.”
“It’s still all about the mindset, attitude, and discipline.”

Special thanks to the Global Special Operations Foundation for hosting us in Athens.

#181: A Badge of Distinction - President John F. Kennedy's Impact On Green Berets - USASOC Historians Dr. Troy Sacquety & Dr. Jared Tracy

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:48:00 GMT

Few leaders have shaped the identity of America’s Special Forces more than President John F. Kennedy. In just three years as Commander in Chief, JFK redefined how the United States would fight, lead, and prepare for an uncertain world, one that demanded unconventional solutions and elite warriors ready to face any challenge.

As the Cold War escalated, President Kennedy saw the need for a new kind of Soldier, one trained to think, adapt, and win in conflicts fought not only on the battlefield, but through influence, innovation, and resilience. His vision for military modernization gave birth to the era of Unconventional Warfare and cemented the role of the Green Berets in America’s national defense strategy.

From his visit to Fort Bragg and the historic meeting with Brigadier General William Yarborough, to the moment he publicly endorsed the Green Beret as “a symbol of excellence, a badge of courage, and a mark of distinction in the fight for freedom,” JFK’s leadership transformed Special Forces from a small experimental group into a cornerstone of American military power.

Today, that legacy continues, honored each year at the JFK Wreath Laying Ceremony, carried forward by generations of Green Berets who live by the same principles of courage, creativity, and service that JFK saw as vital to the nation’s defense.

From the USASOC History Office, Fran Racioppi sat down with two of the historians who’ve preserved and advanced this legacy; Dr. Troy Sacquety and Dr. Jared Tracy. Their work ensures JFK’s vision is never forgotten. We explored the strategic thinking behind Kennedy’s military modernization, the significance of the Green Beret endorsement, and why, decades later, the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School still bears his name. We also discussed the legacy-building moment of JFK’s recent induction as Distinguished Member of the Regiment and the enduring symbolism of the annual wreath laying at Arlington.

This episode is about vision, legacy, and the enduring bond between a President and the warriors he inspired - the Green Berets.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:58 Welcome to the USASOC Historians Office
2:57 JFK and Green Berets
5:34 USASOC Historian role & importance
10:57 JFK’s vision
18:11 USASOC capability in the 1960’s
21:05 JFK’s impact
28:24 DMOR induction
33:54 A world with JFK?

QUOTES

“What really struck us was how great of a speech giver he was.”
“The most important thing we could do is preserve the history of our organization.”
“On any given day, I could be working on something that comes from 1774 to yesterday.”
“Kennedy viewed the Army Special Forces as the natural fit to be able to fill that role.”
“He’s very deliberate in wanting to make Special Forces a part of his program.”
“Can we do this as a nation every time there’s a need to contain the spread of communism?”
“During the Kennedy administration, the term Special Warfare was not very well defined at all.”
“Without the Korean War, you don’t have the ability to do Special Operations in Vietnam.”
“It’s part of the identity of Special Forces.”
“Everyone assumes it was done. When we did the research and looked at it, we realized it hadn’t been.”
“It serves as a reminder for soldiers that are in the Regiment today.”
“What would history be like if Kennedy hadn’t been killed?”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast is an official program of the Green Beret Foundation.

#180: America's Unknown War - MACV-SOG In Southeast Asia, Green Berets Doug Godshall & Jim Shorten

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:36 GMT

There are few chapters in American military history as daring, secretive, and defining as MACV-SOG, the Military Assistance Command-Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group. A small band of elite Green Berets who operated deep behind enemy lines, often without acknowledgment, and always with extraordinary courage.

These men were tasked with missions that had never been done before and might never be done again. Their work in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam forged the tactics, technology, and mindset that would become the DNA of modern Special Operations.

But when they came home, many faced a different kind of battle. The Vietnam era brought with it a complex legacy, one of heroism and heartbreak, pride and pain. Some became business and political leaders; others struggled for decades to find peace. Yet through it all, the brotherhood forged in MACV-SOG never wavered.

Live from the 2nd Annual Stars and Stripes Classic, we sat down with Doug Godshall and Jim Shorten, two veterans of MACV-SOG, to honor their service, preserve their stories, and remind today’s Green Berets what courage, sacrifice, and innovation truly mean.

This episode is about the origins of Special Forces as we know them today, the unbreakable bonds formed in war, and the duty we all share to ensure that the lessons of MACV-SOG live on in every generation of those who don the Green Beret.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:42 Welcome to the Stars & Stripes Classic
3:06 Defining MACV-SOG
5:54 Who were the partner forces?
7:20 MACV-SOG Losses
11:27 Why Become A Green Beret?
14:42 Life Post-Vietnam
19:35 Leadership Lessons from MACV-SOG
22:54 Honoring MACV-SOG Veterans

QUOTES

“We had no identification that we were United States soldiers.”
“MACV-SOG had the highest casualty rate of any US Army unit since the Civil War.”
“We were very dedicated to the Montangards.”
“We wouldn’t be alive but for our indigenous partners.”
“Teams went out and didn’t come back. They were overrun upon landing.”
“The Vietnamese War was highlighted by a lot of enemy infiltration into our ranks.”
“Our generation wasn’t supportive.”
“I’m one of those guys that likes to continue learning.”
“You can never train up enough.”
“You can be whatever you want to be if you put your mind to it.”
“I think the modern GWOT soldier has a lot of history to look back on and they're going to be better soldiers."
“If you really want to run the mission, get all the training you can possibly get.”
“We’re glad that you’re honoring us, but you’re honoring you and the rest of the Regiment as well.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#179: Bringing Home America's Green Berets - Project Recover X Green Beret Foundation

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:29:00 GMT

America maintains a promise to its citizens…we will never leave you behind. The realities of war and conflict challenge that foundational truth and today, regrettably, thousands of American service members remain missing in action; their stories untold, their families still waiting for answers. For most the reality that their loved one has passed has set in; but the promise to bring them home has never faded.

Project Recover is dedicated to locating, identifying, and repatriating Americans missing in action. By combining historical research, advanced technology, and field expeditions across land and sea, they maintain America’s promise to bring closure to families and honor the legacy of those who gave everything for those they will never meet.

To expand the reach of this mission, Project Recover and the Green Beret Foundation have formed a groundbreaking partnership committed to finding Special Forces soldiers still missing in action, reuniting them with their families and ensuring that the sacrifices of America’s Green Berets are never forgotten.

Live from the 2nd Annual Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with Derek Abbey, PhD, President and CEO of Project Recover, and Charlie Iacono, President and CEO of the Green Beret Foundation, to announce this partnership and share how it’s changing what remembrance and recovery mean for the Special Forces community.

This episode is about honoring America’s promise and supporting the families of our missing Green Berets, wherever their final resting place may lie.

QUOTES

“There’s no expiration on that promise.”
“58+ Green Berets MIA’s in Vietnam and now less than 1,600 who are still missing, that’s a pretty significant number.”
“We’re still working on cases related to World War II.”
“This gets to the core essence of what Green Berets do.”
“The work just doesn’t end in Vietnam. I think this is just the starting point.”
“We always work with a sense of urgency and acknowledge time is not our friend in any of these cases.”
“Green Berets are such incredible communicators, particularly with the populations they have worked with.”
“When somebody goes missing, they hold on to hope.”
“The vast majority of the American public have really no understanding that people are missing.”

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:44 Welcome to the Stars & Stripes Classic
3:26 GBF x Project Recover
6:45 MIA Recovery Process
9:47 Partnership Timeline
14:27 Bringing Closure to Families

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#178: Going Where Government Can’t - Grey Bull Rescue Founder Bryan Stern

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:19:00 GMT

Americans are valuable commodities. America’s adversaries know it and too often, when given the opportunity, our enemies kidnap, arrest and hold hostage Americans in an effort to get what they want.

The United States Government maintains robust diplomatic and military programs to bring Americans home; but the process is often slow and bureaucratic. Bryan Stern isn’t waiting around for permission to act. He’s the founder of Grey Bull Rescue, a nonprofit that specializes in pulling people out of the worst situations on Earth including conflict zones, collapsed governments, and failed evacuations where no one else is coming. Since its founding, Grey Bull has led over 700 missions in more than 70 countries, rescuing thousands of Americans and allies left behind.

From SOF Week 2025 Fran Racioppi sat down with Bryan to talk about what it means to lead through chaos. They broke down the rescue of 117 Americans from Afghanistan in 2021, how Grey Bull makes life-and-death decisions with limited information, and why Bryan believes the phrase “No American Left Behind” isn’t negotiable; for the government or its citizens.

We also discussed the future of rescue operations. As global instability increases and our enemies get smarter, the need for fast, precise, off-grid capability is only going up. Grey Bull is filling a gap where the government can't move fast enough and showing what’s possible when the mission comes first.

This episode is about courage, clarity, and acting when no one else can. Because leadership under pressure means getting the job done, no matter how impossible it looks.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:57 Welcome to SOF Week 2025
3:58 The Mission of Grey Bull Rescue
8:03 How do you choose who to rescue?
11:48 Government Entities Relationships
15:56 Founding Grey Bull Rescue
25:03 Making Bad Deals
32:45 Finding The Next Battlefield
47:21 Overcoming Fears of Taking Action

Quotes

“Our mission is to rescue Americans and allies from denied areas, war zones, and natural disasters wherever the government is not.”
“I answer to two people and two people only: God and the families of the people we’re trying to rescue.”
"Bureaucracy doesn’t bleed. People do.”
“I deploy knowing that the first idea I have I know will fail.”
“I’m not trying to be in the way. I’m trying to help.”
“I live every day like it’s September 12th.”
“As an American, we move heaven and earth to get your back.”
“We have never successfully negotiated with anyone.”
“Right now, everyone should be deployed.”
“We got the tools. We just have to think about the problems the right way.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

Our SOF Week 2025 Series is made possible in part by Accrete.ai; solving business’s most complex challenges today through the technology of tomorrow.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

The opinions presented on The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of my guests and myself. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does the Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

#177: Artificial Warfare - Accrete AI Government Founder & CEO Bill Wall

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:19:00 GMT

The war for information, influence, and decision making is paramount on today’s battlefield. Artificial intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it’s essential for America’s national security and military dominance.

From SOF Week in Tampa, Florida, Fran Racioppi sat down with retired Green Beret and Co-founder of Accrete AI Government, Bill Wall, to talk about a fight most Americans never see.

Bill is one of the leading voices redefining how we use AI and how our government is deploying it in the protection of America. Bill explains how Accrete’s Argus platform is actively being used to identify foreign ownership and control in U.S. defense supply chains, and how more broadly AI is helping analysts detect narrative warfare and influence campaigns before they spread.

He shared how dual-use technology is shifting the battlefield, why algorithmic warfare is already here, and how Accrete is giving government agencies the tools to scale human insight without losing control. They also talked about the dangers of siloed innovation, the gap between Silicon Valley and the Pentagon, and what leadership looks like when you’re building tech that needs to work at speed and at scale.

This episode is about changing how we think about war, technology, and leadership; and what it’s going to take to stay ahead in the next fight.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome to SOF Week
3:45 Artificial Intelligence Defined
6:53 AI in War Fighting
9:07 Machine Learning
10:51 Drawing the Line with AI
14:48 Defining the Next Battlefield
18:27 Combatting False Narratives & Misinformation
22:03 Public Private Partnerships
24:29 Accrete in the Corporate World
29:11 Regulating AI
31:05 Why Army
32:55 Innovation changing SOF
37:20 Transition from SOF
51:50 Accrete AI’s future

Quotes

“Artificial intelligence is just using computers and data to think and reason the same way a human would, but just at a much larger scale and speed.”
“Anywhere there’s a decisional situation and they’re overwhelmed by the amount of information they have to sort through, artificial intelligence should be there.”
“Machine learning allows an algorithm or a program to continually absorb new data and learn from that data.”
“Artificial intelligence empowers a human.”
“We’re not engaging in the narrative battle. We don’t even know what’s being said.”
“We don’t necessarily need the National Intelligence Community to tell us where our enemies are, they’re broadcasting it.”
“Is artificial intelligence a general category of something that should have a governmental review on it or not?”
“If you want to know where the next salifist, jihadist, preacher who’s going to lead an uprising in North Africa is, he’s on Youtube.”
“In our community, there’s this ethos of being prepared for change and being able to take advantage of change as it happens.”
“You are what you do. That’s how you identify your self worth and who you are.”
“Something that guys have to think about is what their personal risk profile is.”
“If you’re a checklist driven person that needs to be told what to do to understand your job, then entrepreneurialism is not for you.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

Our SOF Week 2025 Series is made possible in part by Accrete.ai; solving business’s most complex challenges today through the technology of tomorrow.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#176: A New VA Standard - Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs is the second largest government agency. The Secretary of the VA has an operational responsibility to support our Veterans and a moral obligation to ensure that those who defend and protect American interests are returned from service as contributing members of society.

To explore what it takes to transform one of America’s biggest bureaucracies, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Secretary of the VA, Doug Collins. As a former US and Georgia Congressman, and a Chaplain having served in both the Air Force and Navy, Secretary Collins knows what a Veteran needs and how to navigate Washington to get it done.

The Secretary and Fran broke down the pillars of VA support: including the VA Health Care System, the Disability and Pension process, education support programs like the GI Bill and Vocational Rehab, the importance of Veteran-Owned Businesses, and the no down payment VA mortgages.

Most importantly the Secretary shared his vision to stop Veteran suicide and why despite spending billions to reduce it over the years, we must forge a path that actually works.

Fran has personally leveraged almost every single pillar of support the VA has to offer. And although it hasn’t always been perfect, Secretary Collins explains why the VA leads industry in many domains and how under his leadership the VA will be held to a defined standard of excellence.

This episode is about bridging the gap between military service and civilian life, the responsibility the VA has in supporting our nation’s most important asset, and why Veterans are critical to American strength.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:48 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
7:06 Leading the VA
11:09 VA Healthcare
15:12 Reducing wait times
18:20 Partnering with institutions
20:20 Addressing Veteran suicide
29:45 Disability Benefit Claims Process
39:17 Education Benefits
43:10 VA Home Loans
43:57 VA Reduction in size
49:41 Is Veteran Capitalized?

Quotes

“Everybody’s going to have a problem. I’m committed to fixing those problems.”
“We’re the largest physical department in the government.”
“Defense and VA are fraternal twins.”
“60% of every time the phone rings at a Congressman’s office it’s about a VA issue.”
“The VA’s not gonna be a whipping post for anybody anymore.”
“There’s some things that the VA does better than private healthcare.”
“No other hospital system in the world judges wait time. They judge on quality and how they get it.”
“We’re the largest trainer of doctors in the country.”
“The shorter the service time, the higher the risk for suicide.”
“Are we getting them out of the DoD system in a way that we can help them?”
“I don’t want a day to go by that a Veteran that needs help doesn’t feel like they have it.”
“If you’ve just transitioned out, DON’T QUIT.”
“The standard is we’re going to be excellent.”
“I learn every day here and if you quit learning, you’re really in trouble.”
“If you’ve been to one VA, you’ve been to them all. That’s the biggest lie that’s ever been out there.”
“Is the word Veteran capitalized?”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#175: Changing The Wear And Appearance Of The Army Uniform, US Army Directive 670-1 - SMA Mike Weimer, SGM Laurin Nabors, SGM Alex Kupratty

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:45:00 GMT

Standards set the foundation for any professional organization. The baseline for professionalism in the US Army is Army Regulation 670-1; Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia. This regulation dictates the standard for every Soldier, regardless of rank or position. AR 670-1 has long been a hot topic of discussion among Soldiers and leaders at every level; and too often left open to interpretation. Until now…

At the direction of senior Army leadership, Army Directive 670-1 has been released to clarify these standards and provide shared understanding between Soldiers and leaders to know what ‘right’ looks like.

To explain the changes and how they will affect every member of the Army, Fran Racioppi sat down with Sergeant Major of the Army Mike Weimer, SGM Laurin Nabors and SGM Alex Kupratty. The SMA shares the “why” behind personal grooming standards and the importance of doing the little things that develop a culture of commitment from compliance. SGM Kupratty breaks down the definition of professional soldier from the experienced warriors of 75th Ranger Regiment to the new Privates of 4th Infantry Division. SGM Nabors provides the details on what’s changing, when and how the new standards are expected to be enforced. She also shares her journey from an Army Reserve heavy equipment operator to the halls of the Pentagon.

This episode is about redefining what it means to serve in the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen and why development of a war fighting culture starts with how a Soldier presents themself each and every day.

Highlights

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
3:26 Army Directive vs Regulation in 670-1
5:30 Why Now
8:49 Closing Gaps
12:55 Changes to 670-1
21:08 Why Standards Matter
28:25 Analyzing Data
29:42 Beards
34:30 Preparing soldiers
38:10 Active Guard Reserve
44:30 Joining the Ranger Battalion
49:42 The Grace Period
50:33 Daily Habits

Quotes

“Part of the problem is our process is too slow.”
“The first thing I had to figure out is are they educated?”
“Do they understand the standards as they are written?”
“Once you are emplaced in a leadership position, that’s where the commitment piece has to be rock solid.”
"If you can’t do the simple things I’m asking you to do, how are you going to do the hard things in combat?”
“We had to come in and really define “What is military appearance?”
“It’s a direct reflection of your willingness to be compliant to a standard in your leaders.”
“The why reinforces one uniformity.”
“We’re part of something bigger than all of us."
“Really understanding the generational differences that exist is arguably the most challenging thing that I found as a senior leader in the Army.”
“I don’t think anybody knows what large scale combat will look like.”
“The camaraderie that exists in that formation is unlike anything I’ve seen before.”
“Leadership’s not about 'What did I do here today?' It’s 'What did I do for everyone else here to be successful?'"
“You’re only as good as the time you put in.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

#174: Opportunity From Need - Green Beret Foundation President & CEO Charlie Iacono (SOF Week 2025)

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:40:11 GMT

Supporting the Special Forces Regiment isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle. For over 15 years Green Beret Foundation has placed empowering Green Berets of every generation at the forefront. Creating opportunities from the unique needs of our Special Operators is the mission.

Charlie Iacono is the President and CEO of Green Beret Foundation; a role to which he brought seemingly endless new opportunities for our Green Berets. From SOF Week 2025 in Tampa, FL, Fran Racioppi sat down with Charlie to discuss his priorities for the year, how the organization has grown over 44% and what it means to lead in the tasks you excel at.

At the top of Charlie’s list is preparing for victory in this year’s 2nd Annual Stars and Stripes Classic; the newest Labor Day tradition pitting America’s Green Berets against their Navy SEAL rivals on the lacrosse field. Hosted by the PLL, this year’s game is set to be even more physical, faster and sharper as the teams take the field in Philadelphia.

Charlie and Fran also discussed how Task Force Tatonka is balancing mental, physical and spiritual health, why inducting President John F. Kennedy was a pivotal moment in Special Forces history, the growth of the Warrior Sportsmen program and new partnerships that are lighting the course for the remainder of the year.

This episode is about giving back, creating opportunities for Green Berets to thrive, and laying a good stick on your rivals.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:42 Welcome to SOF Week
5:38 The 2nd Annual Stars & Stripes Classic
12:08 Inducting JFK into the Special Forces Regiment
16:55 Task Force Tatanka
25:51 Warriors Sportsmen Program
32:57 New GBF partners
36:48 Looking forward

Quotes

“We really live that first SOF truth, people are more important than hardware.”

“In year two, the interest level of playing is through the roof.”

“We are looking to help the Special Forces Regiment and the NSW Community to recruit the best athletes.”

“If we can win one recruit at a time, we’ll be totally fine.”

“Everything in that evening that we experienced had a connection to the 35th President of the United States of America.”

“If you run from the issues, they’ll eventually catch up with you.”

“I look at needs as well as opportunities.”

“My goal for this foundation is to be the preeminent leader in the things we can do exceptionally well.”

“A big problem that we have is we just don’t get outside enough.”

“It’s the camaraderie that’s built in those quiet moments.”

“We need the support of the American people and industry to ensure that our mission can continuously be fueled.”

“We really have to get ready for that next conflict.”

“We don’t want anybody to buckle under pressure.”

“The American people’s resolve to win has always been there since day one.”

Our SOF Week 2025 Series is made possible in part by Accrete.ai; solving business’s most complex challenges today through the technology of tomorrow.

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#E173: The Global SOF Imperative - Global Special Operations Forces Foundation President Stu Bradin (SOF Week 2025)

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:38:19 GMT

For over three decades, retired Colonel Stu Bradin served on the front lines of some of America’s most critical Special Operations missions from Central America and the Balkans to Northern Africa and Afghanistan. He led Special Forces teams under fire, built NATO’s Special Operations Headquarters from the ground up, and ran multi-national, interagency fusion cells in the heart of combat zones.

But in 2014, Stu Bradin saw a different kind of threat emerging: disconnected allies, stovepiped intelligence, and fragmented Special Operations communities. He knew the next fight against cyberattacks, transnational crime, and terrorist networks would require something we didn’t yet have: a global SOF network. That’s why he created the Global Special Operations Forces Foundation (GSOF); the first nonprofit dedicated to uniting Special Operations military, government, and commercial partners across the world.

Fran Racioppi sat down with Stu during this year’s SOF Week to talk about why he founded GSOF, what it takes to bring together over 60 nations and 85 industry partners, and how his experiences building NATO SOF HQ and leading interagency teams shaped the Foundation’s mission. They explored what elite leadership really looks like at the global level, the danger of operating in silos, and why SOF must evolve its mindset as rapidly as its technology.

Stu also broke down how GSOF accelerates innovation, helps SOF units and partners connect in real time, and creates space for public-private collaboration that can meet the speed and complexity of modern threats to answer the hardest question of today; what must Special Operations become to win the next fight?

This episode is about global leadership, unity of effort, and how one Green Beret’s post-military mission is helping shape the future of Special Operations across the world.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
2:02 Welcome to SOF Week
3:17 Significance of Global SOF Foundation
7:38 Prioritizing Small Businesses
11:02 Defining the Next Battlefield
19:00 NATO SOF
23:05 American’s Propensity to Serve
27:33 Winning the Next Fight
30:55 Getting Equipment to Warfighters
35:35 What it means to be a Green Beret

Quotes

“What makes us different is we’re international and we’re joint and nobody else is that way.”
“Part of what you have to do as a SOF commander in the joint environment is unite your tribes.”
“The innovation comes from small businesses.”
“Most small businesses fail because of catastrophic success not catastrophic failure.”
“If you’re wrapped in metal, you have zero probability of survival.”
“You can’t just assume that your enemy is ignorant because they’re not.”
“I wouldn’t want to be on the modern battlefield.”
“Our deterrent is having the best partners we can.”
“We back into wars, we don’t run to them.”
“They’re going to be our future whether we like it or not, so we’ve got to make sure that they are armed to do the right thing.”
“I think we need to give the NCO corps a lot more latitude.”
“If people know you can get to them quickly, they have to calculate for that.”
“At the end of the day, most of the stuff we’re fielding right now is not going to survive first contact.”
“Ultimately, you have a less trained force.”
“SOF, cyber, intel, information and economics. That’s how you’re going to win the competition fight.”
“I just think this is the Special Ops time.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

Our SOF Week 2025 Series is made possible in part by Accrete.ai; solving business’s most complex challenges today through technology of tomorrow.

#172: The Message No One Wants To Give...or Receive - Major General Gil Ferguson & Gold Star Daughter Dalia Munoz

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 09:48:00 GMT

Memorial Day isn’t about a long weekend and BBQs. It’s about honoring those who gave their lives in defense of America…and it’s about supporting the families they left behind. Across US Army Special Operations Command remembering the legacy and impact of the fallen is a daily duty.

This Memorial Day, Fran Racioppi sat down with Major General Gil Ferguson and Dalia Munoz to share the story of the day that changed, and intertwined, their lives forever. The day SFC Pedro Munoz, Dalia’s dad, was killed in action. General Ferguson was the officer charged with informing her and her family of his death. Delivering a message no one wants to receive and no one wants to give. Dalia, her mother and her grandmother have never been the same.

In this emotional tribute, Dalia and General Ferguson recount that grief-stricken January morning; the planning and preparation behind the casualty affairs process; and the shock, disbelief and sadness that suddenly overcomes a family.

Regulation says the casualty officer and the family shall never meet again; which was the case until General Ferguson became the USASOC Chief of Staff, a role that put him in charge of the Protocol office, the office in which Dalia worked. Confronted with the biggest leadership challenge of his career, General Ferguson had to decide if, and how, to tell Dalia about their encounter years earlier.

This episode is about service. It’s about leadership when it matters most. And it’s about what it means to live a life shaped by loss, and still find purpose on the other side. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s one to never forget.

Special thanks to General Ferguson and Dalia for their openness and willingness to share the rare bond they hold. Thanks to the USASOC Historian’s office for hosting us.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
2:02 Welcome to USASOC
4:01 The Importance of Memorial Day
7:26 January 1st, 2005
11:31 Constructing a plan
28:25 SFC Pedro Munoz
32:30 Navigating Grief
35:45 Dealing with loss of a Green Beret
40:45 Reconnecting
52:31 Gold Star Families
56:25 Remaining a part of the Regiment
59:59 Resources for Mental Health
1:02:50 Memorial Day Message

Quotes

“Memorial Day is an opportunity for us to stop, honor the fallen and take a moment to remember.”
“It takes a deliberate effort to remember folks once there’s no one else in the formation who personally knew them.”
“The Army does such a good job of preparing people for what they tell you is going to be a task for which it is impossible to actually really prepare.”
“You don’t want somebody who’s an early riser waking up and turning on the news and finding out there’s a casualty, and then the next thing you know there’s people calling around and speculation.”
“That’s the system. You deliver the message as the notification officer and then get off the X.”
“Doesn’t matter how much you prepare, you’re not prepared.”
“Everything you think you’ve known is completely shattered.”
“You kind of only get one shot at things that you’re doing and so you have to do them well.”
“The leadership has to be able to understand how to give the formation the room and the space to grieve, but also how to channel that grief into the next step, which is the requirement to potentially go out the door the next day.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#171: World's Best Problem Solvers - Green Beret and PAM Jets CEO Ben Harrow

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Green Berets are America’s best problem solvers. There’s no challenge too great and no solution that cannot be found. This mentality exists in service and beyond.

Ben Harrow solved complex challenges as a West Point Lacrosse star, leading soldiers in Iraq, and as he joined Special Forces to be a Green Beret in the Army. Today he’s the President of PAM Jets solving aviation’s largest logistical problems. But the biggest challenge Ben ever faced was when he stepped on a land mine.

Ben is a double amputee who nearly lost his life in Afghanistan. From the sidelines of the 2024 Stars and Stripes Classic, the first ever lacrosse battle between Green Berets and Navy SEALs, Ben joined Fran Racioppi to share his story. After months of surgery and being told he would never walk again, he took his recovery into his own hands.

Ben explains the meticulous research he conducted, the doctors he challenged and the method he developed to ensure he would walk and move on with life. He explains his resiliency mindset, how he applied it to becoming a Green Beret, solving his recovery challenge and how it drives him in entrepreneurship today.

Most importantly, Ben shows us that there’s nothing special about being Special Forces, you just have to want it more than anyone else.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Gillette Stadium and don’t forget to check out the rest of our series from the inaugural Stars and Stripes Classic as we gear up for the round two on September 1, 2025.

Highlights

00:00 Introduction
1:42 Welcome to Gillette Stadium
2:42 We Met In Iraq
7:40 Joining Special Forces
9:25 What Separates a Green Beret
12:27 Stepping on a Landmine
17:23 The Rehabilitation Process
21:05 Learning how to walk again
27:55 The Most Challenging Part
29:34 SF Guys Building a Business
38:30 What’s Next

Quotes

“As an athlete and competitive person, I’ve always wanted to be on the best teams.”
“That special mindshift puts that special in front of forces.”
“Special Operations in combat, if there was a board game, we’re like chess masters and everyone else is checkers masters.”
“My first thought when I stepped on that bomb was I got hit by a car.”
“Part of the reason I think I was able to get out and start the process of figuring out how to walk again was I took myself off the pain meds so quick.”
“I got injured as a 215 lb tactical athlete to waking up in the hospital bed weighing only like 130.”
“The most challenging part was learning to have patience.”
“As an entrepreneur, you try everything.”
“That’s the biggest thing as an entrepreneur, being able to solve ambiguous problems.”
“It’s better to execute an 80% plan at 100% than waiting to create a 100% plan and executing at 80%.”
“My guidance to my team is consistently we don’t do everything, but we can do anything.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#170: Negotiating With Terrorists - Special Presidential Envoy For Hostage Affairs Ambassador Roger Carstens

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 09:13:00 GMT

America maintains a promise to its citizens. A promise to never leave them behind and stop at nothing to return them to American soil. Over 200 Americans are wrongfully detained or taken hostage each year across the globe. The Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs is responsible for bringing them home.

Ambassador Roger Carstens served as the SPEHA from 2020-2025. A West Point Graduate, Green Beret, Army Ranger, and seasoned security leader, Roger and his team brought home close to 70 Americans during his tenure; including high profile cases such as WNBA star Brittney Griner and Wall Street Journal Reporter Evan Gerskovich.

Roger joined Fran Racioppi from the McCain Institute in Washington, DC for a conversation on the role of the SPEHA, why countries take Americans for leverage, and just how America negotiates with terrorists.

We explore the effects of wrongful detention and hostage taking on America’s national power, how families are turned completely upside down, and why only a Warrior Diplomat has the character required to make deals with America’s adversaries.

Roger and Fran also share the mission of Hostage US; a non-profit instrumental in supporting hostages and wrongful detainees - and their families - through captivity, return and reintegration.

Watch, listen or read our conversation. Special thanks to the McCain Institute for hosting us and sharing their mission to defend and enhance human rights across the globe.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:42 Welcome to the McCain Institute
5:23 What is the SPEHA?
8:53 Terrorists vs nation states
12:59 Deciding which cases
21:38 Negotiating with terrorists
24:38 Drawing the line
27:14 No negotiation approach
34:20 Family impact
41:00 Why Serve In The Army
50:05 Challenges In Transition
57:32 Hostage US Impact
1:00:47 Future of hostage security

Quotes

“A hostage is someone held by a terrorist group. A wrongful detainee is someone held by a nation state.”
“Every case is different. There is no cookie cutter approach.”
“It doesn’t matter if it’s a nation state or terrorist group, if they take you, you’re held hostage.”
“You can never hand a bag of money to a terrorist group and say ‘we want our citizen back.’”
“The United States does not negotiate with terrorists and yet I have.”
“No one comes back when you call for their unconditional release.”
“If we did not negotiate with Russia, they would just take Americans and you would see them stay 14, 15, 16 years there or they’d die in prison.”
“We have to create new tools to be used to compel these countries to not take our citizens.”
“If you want to stop evil. If you want to crush the next Adolf Hitler. Dial 1-800-USARMY.”
“Every Green Beret will leave the service one day.”
“If there’s not that higher mission where you’re allowed to serve and you don’t have that camaraderie, you’re going to have a hard time.”
“If you have a mission you have to approach your next few steps differently than those who just want to be a thing or to have a job.”
“The hardest negotiation I ever did was with the US Government.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#169: The Green Beret Dagger - Stroup Knives Founder Chris Stroup

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Since 2002, graduates of the U.S. Army Special Forces Qualification Course have been awarded the Yarborough Knife; an elite symbol of distinction, identity, and mission.

Named after LTG William P. Yarborough, who was instrumental in solidifying President John F. Kennedy’s support of Special Forces, the blade was forged to mark the moment a soldier became a Green Beret. Each knife was engraved with a serial number, connecting it to the operator who earned it.

But in 2015, that tradition ended. Budget cuts discontinued the official presentation, and for nearly a decade, new Green Berets have crossed the stage without a blade in hand; without that powerful, tangible connection to the generations who came before.

Now, Chris Stroup and the Green Beret Foundation are bringing it back. A former Army Special Operations soldier, Chris, like so many who serve in the elite ranks, battled loss of identity and purpose when he transitioned to civilian life. On came a new mission. He founded Stroup Knives; an American-made, family-run company dedicated to building rugged, high-quality blades for hard use.

I sat down with Chris at his shop in Fayetteville, North Carolina to learn just how he started Stroup Knives, why every part of the process is done in-house, and how his military values of precision, discipline, and purpose now shape every product he makes.

We spoke about his commitment to quality over quantity, employing veterans, and his newest creation: the Green Beret Dagger; a modern descendant of the Yarborough, designed to once again be fielded as a symbol of elite service and brotherhood.

This is about more than a knife. It’s about restoring a tradition, honoring sacrifice, and forging identity through craftsmanship. Watch, listen, or read our conversation from the floor of a veteran-owned shop where steel meets legacy and where a mark of distinction is being brought back.

Head over to greenberetfoundation.org today to get yours. Proceeds support our Green Berets and their families.

Highlights

00:00 Introduction
03:54 The Green Beret Dagger
08:23 Why Enter Special Operations?
10:56 How to start a knife company
14:28 Family involvement in the business
17:02 How hard is entrepreneurship?
20:47 Knife skews and design
21:22 Maintaining quality
23:15 Competitive advantage
24:27 Green Beret Dagger
25:40 What's next?

Quotes

“I get to make knives for the most elite."
“Let’s go find something hard. So I joined the Army.”
“That’s what I was looking for, working with the best there is.”
“If I’m telling my kids they have to do the best that they can, I have to.”
“Transition was hard in a lot of ways that I never expected it to be.”
“I think that’s really what we’re trying to build here, is just a place to build a community.”
“This is fun, making something cool, and I could do it with my family.”
“We can teach you how to make a knife. I can’t teach you how to be a good human and fit into our team.”
“You are well suited as a Special Operator to run a business.”
“Learning in the military, it’s just everything is a problem. We’re just professional problem solvers. It’s kind of what being an entrepreneur is.”
“Everybody wants the best knife possible to come out of here.”
“Just because you graduated the course doesn’t mean that you’re going to be a great Green Beret.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#167: The Legion Has Spoken - 5th Special Forces Group COL Gabe Szody & CSM Travis Esterby

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The Special Forces Groups are where America’s Green Berets get to work. 5th Special Forces Group has been involved in every conflict, known and unknown, across the Middle East since its inception. Doing hard things isn’t considered an ask; it’s the standard.

To dig into the mission of The Legion, Fran Racioppi traveled to Fort Campbell, KY to sit down with the command team, COL Gabe Szody and CSM Travis Esterby, to define what Combat Power means to Special Forces and how the Army’s Warfighting Functions are applied across Special Forces detachments.

They explained why Green Beret’s regional affiliation is critical to expertise, how detachments are simultaneously preparing to combat peer adversaries and terrorist organizations, and how America is tying in cyber and space at the most tactical level.

COL Szody and CSM Esterby also share their perspective on recruiting, how technology is changing the Special Forces teams, and how they are enforcing standards at every level.

Watch, listen or read our chilly spring morning conversation from Gabriel Field as we honor 5th SFG’s sacrifice and contributions to America’s national security.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:22 Welcome to Gabriel Field
5:01 Mission of 5th Special Forces Group
7:01 5th Special Forces Group’s Top Priorities
9:45 Regional Alignment
11:04 By, with, and through
14:10 Crisis in the Middle East
15:49 5th Group’s impact in Afghanistan
17:50 Defining LSCO
22:01 SOF’s role in LSCO
25:32 SOF-Space-Cyber Triad
27:30 LSCO decision making
30:17 Terrorist attack
32:28 Defining Standards and Fundamentals
36:36 Reinforcing the Team Sergeant
38:04 Why the Army
45:13 Special Forces Recruiting Challenges
50:57 Integrating New Technology
57:36 Daily Habits

Quotes

“25 Medal of Honor recipients. More Medal of Honor recipients than any other O-6 headquarters. Some divisions don’t have as many.”
“5th Group’s job is to go forward and win our nation’s battles, whatever that may be.”
“The top priority is to ensure that whatever battalion is going out the door is trained and ready to execute their mission.”
“One of the things we can’t assume risk on is not being good at lethality.”
“By, with, and through, that’s where you gain your rapport.”
”I don’t think there’s a crystal ball available that could tell you what direction the Middle East is going.”
“I’m just proud to be here. I’m proud to be part of this organization and to have the history that we have.”
“If the big one kicks off, we will be what the nation needs us to be”
“It’s our access and placement forward the line of troops that’s unique.”
“In LSCO, you got to be thinking at least 96 hours out.”
“I would rather train for my worst day than anything else.”
“You’re going to be held accountable and you’re going to deploy. Those are my two guarantees.”
“You have to have leaders willing to learn.”
“I made the smartest decision of my life when I was probably the biggest idiot, and that was to join the Army.”
“We are getting the right people. The people that want to serve, that want to be challenged. They’re doing it for all the right reasons.”
“Our secret sauce here at 5th Group is our people. That’s really our superpower.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#166: The Army Fitness Test; A Clear Set Of Standards - Sergeant Major of the Army Mike Weimer & SGM Chris Mullinax

Fri, 23 May 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The Army physical training test has long been a measure of a soldier’s fitness for duty and for combat. For decades it’s been used as the benchmark upon which all other physical fitness has been evaluated. And for decades it has been hotly debated, modified and enhanced to best represent the current mission of the US Army.

SGM Chris Mullinax has been charged with developing the Army Fitness Test; the newest version of the PT test that now replaces the Army Combat Fitness Test and its predecessor, the Army Physical Fitness Test.

From the Pentagon’s US Army Broadcasting Studio, and with a cameo from Sergeant Major of the Army Mike Weimer, Fran Racioppi sat down with SGM Mullinax to breakdown the changes in the test, why combat MOS’s are being held to different sex-neutral standards, and how the grading scale is designed to enhance and enforce a standard that ensures warfighting is at the forefront of every soldier’s fitness.

As a career 75th Ranger Regiment leader, SGM Mullinax also shares why America’s national security is reliant on Rangers, and why Ranger School remains the premier leadership standard in the military.

Watch, listen or read our conversation as SMA Weimer updates us on the Army’s Blue Book and how enforcing the fitness standard is increasing Army readiness.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:36 Welcome to the Pentagon
2:52 Why change the PT test?
4:52 SMA Weimer drops in
5:33 Distributing the Blue Book
6:33 Upholding Army standards
10:44 Implementing a Warfighting Culture
14:53 AFT now five exercises
19:14 Combat vs Supporting MOSs
20:43 AFT Evaluation Metrics
21:56 Gender-neutral standard in Combat MOSs
22:41 Fitness is America’s Advantage
26:14 Ranger Regiment Standards
29:23 Leadership Through Ranger School
32:28 Is the Army Ready?
33:43 Preparing the Army for combat
35:50 Culture of Will
37:56 Daily Habits

Quotes:

“Changing the PT test is not a new idea. We’re always assessing our physical standards.”
“I don’t like to start from the minimum standard. That to me is not a place you start any conversation, especially warfighters.”
“You should be trying to exceed any standard.”
“You can’t put competition on a pedestal.”
“Right now we’re crushing retention. Soldiers want to continue to serve.”
“This is a hard life. This is not easy. You chose the path that needs a machete.”
“We exist to fight and win. We are not a jobs program.”
"Your ability to recover in between them is the true test of your fitness.”
“When we have physically fit leadership, it inspires our ranks.”
“Our ability to fight and win our wars relies heavily on our fitness.”
“As I look at my time in the Ranger Regiment..clear set of standards.”
“Things have evolved, but the standard is still the same.”
“The most important part about Ranger School is you learn a lot about yourself.”
“We’re in a space right now where we’re transforming as an institution.”
“PT might not be the most important thing we do today, but it's the most important thing we do every day.”
“We have to be ready. That’s just the bottom line.”
“Service is hard. It wouldn’t be service if it wasn’t hard.”

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health & Performance, providing our Veterans world-class education and training as fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#165: America's Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Threat - Retired US Army Inspector General Lt. Gen. Leslie Smith

Fri, 16 May 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The biggest threat to America today is too often the one we think about the least. Nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare has been around for decades and the effects of an NBC attack on the homeland or American interests abroad is a very real scenario.

Retired Lt. Gen Leslie Smith spent a career in the Army as a Chemical Officer. He served as the Chief of the Chemical Branch and Commandant of the United States Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear School. He was the first Chemical officer to serve as the Commanding General of the United States Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and the first Chemical officer to serve as the Army's Inspector General. He is now the Vice President for Leadership and Education at the Association of United States Army.

With reports looming about Russian willingness to use NBC weapons in Ukraine, and Iran’s constant desire to acquire them and put them into the hands of terrorist proxies, Fran Racioppi sat down with Lt. Gen. Smith to discuss the real threat America faces.

We broke down the history of America’s Chemical weapons programs, their use in various stages of conflicts, the implementation of international prohibitions, how the US Army prepares for NBC threats, and what we learned about their modern day use through the COVID pandemic.

Lt. Gen. Smith also shared insight into the important role the Inspector General plays in maintaining standards and accountability within the Army, as well as the role AUSA is playing in supporting soldiers both active duty and post-service.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from the Association of the United States Army HQ and don’t miss the rest of our AUSA series.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
4:00 Importance of chemical warfare
7:30 The likelihood of chemical warfare
8:22 Anthrax on 9/11
11:45 Will anyone use NBC weapons
14:07 The lessons of COVID-19
16:18 Joining the Army
19:55 America’s projection of power
22:22 The role of the Army Inspector General
27:36 Do Army Standards Matter
31:11 Have we lost the mission?
33:18 Maintaining the Army
36:50 The role of AUSA
39:26 Daily Habits

Quotes

“The Germans used it, and the Americans were not ready to go.”
“That’s what CBRN stands for: Could Be Right Now.”
“At the higher levels, it’s all about building coalitions of people.”
“We don’t know what’s next, we just have to be prepared to deal with the situation.”
“The leader has to be at the decisive point.”
“When you have boots on the ground, it sends a signal.”
“ A leader’s presence only matters when you are present.”
“What leaders do is talk about what needs to happen in organizations.”
“We have to make sure that the soldiers trust us, the nation trusts us, Congress trusts us, our leaders trust us and the things that we do.”
“Inspector generals are training multiple generations of leaders.”
“Every leader is responsible for enforcing the standard.”
“Climate beats strategy.”
“Everyone is looking for their sense of purpose.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#164: By All Means Available - Former Undersecretary Of Defense For Intelligence Michael Vickers

Fri, 09 May 2025 08:55:00 GMT

The directive given to our Green Berets is to win by All Means Available. To do so, requires a combination of ingenuity, understanding the environment, a clear plan and precision execution.

Mike Vickers built a career on winning America’s shadow wars by All Means Available. Mike started his career as both a non-commissioned and commissioned officer Green Beret before becoming a Paramilitary Operations Officer at the Central Intelligence Agency. Mike later served as the Undersecretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict, as well as the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, where he served as the lead Intelligence official at the Pentagon.

Secretary Vickers joined Fran Racioppi to chronicle his new book By All Means Available, Memoirs Of A Life in Intelligence, Special Operations and Strategy. He has been a part of almost every American known and unknown conflict for the past 50 years; including leading the defeat of the Soviet Union in Afghanistan.

We defined how America collects and uses intelligence in both national security and diplomacy. We discussed America’s will to win large conflicts, when we’ve gotten it right and why we get it wrong. And we went deep on the real enemy facing America today.

Mike sees the United States in a New Cold War that will challenge the nation like never before. He shares the reasons why America got here, and most importantly his Grand Strategy to rebuild a culture of winning global conflict to solidify America’s position as the dominant world power for decades to come.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
6:29 Definition and Significance of Intelligence
8:00 DoD intelligence use
10:59 Joining the Army
15:45 By all means necessary
21:12 Politics in War judgement
28:11 China & Russia
38:00 Defining American power
42:28 Nuclear Weapons in Iran & North Korea
46:06 Mobilization of American troops
48:48 Pakistan
49:38 Media on disunity
50:56 The arms race against China
54:20 Covert action
56:34 Denial of Service
59:48 Regional and Global Deterrence
1:03:07 Transforming out alliances
1:10:49 The Next Threat
1:14:03 SOF integration
1:18:15 America’s overconfidence
1:20:51 10 Principles
1:30:06 Daily Habits

Quotes

“We are in dynamic times. We are in polarizing times.”
“It’s not just military and economic intelligence, it’s economic, scientific, and technical intelligence that can make a big difference.”
“It became the largest covert action program in CIA history.”
“Drive them out by all means available.”
“How are we going to win?”
“Ammunition is what really sustains operational tempo.”
“When America goes to war, we’re going to bring everything and we are going to win.”
“The more you put in it, the more you better win, and win quickly.”
“America is arguably challenged right now, like never before.”
“Once the sleeping giant wakes up, look out, they are going to lose.”
“Strength is Power.”
“There’s economic, military, intelligence, political strength, the power of your ideals, and so you try to aggregate that.”
"We will win the new Cold War.”
“When you think your biggest enemy is another American or group of Americans something’s wrong.”
“Covert action is taking diplomacy operations, paramilitary operations, sabotage and others and just having it be done under title 50.”
“Cyber is this unique weapon that it’s used for espionage. It’s a very powerful collection tool.”
“You need survivable forward presence.”
“I think the greatest threat is the combination of China and Russia and perhaps adding in Iran and North Korea.”

Watch, listen or read our conversation from the Association of the United States Army as Secretary Vickers shares his leadership lessons learned through covert action; and don’t miss the rest of our AUSA series.

#163: America's Only Special Forces - Green Beret Foundation Chairman Ken Tovo & Board Member Chris Robinette

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:46:00 GMT

Green Berets solve complex challenges in service because they’re informed. Yet when they transition out, the civilian world often leaves them looking for answers. The Green Beret Foundation stands ready to ensure our nation's most elite soldiers continue to succeed post service.

From the sidelines of the Stars and Stripes Classic, the first ever lacrosse battle between Green Berets and Navy SEALs, and the brain child of Green Beret Foundation, Fran Racioppi kicked off the game with Chairman of the Board retired Lt. Gen. Ken Tovo and Board Member and Green Beret Chris Robinette.

With penalty markers flying, we talk about the future of Green Beret Foundation support and how the reduction in conflict is creating opportunities to focus on transition support, job preparation and job placement. We also explain GBF’s position as the only VA accredited disability processing team in the Special Forces non-profit sector. Making informed decisions matters in service and beyond.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Gillette Stadium and don’t forget to check out the rest of our series from the Stars and Stripes Classic and the full game highlights. If you haven’t signed up for next year, stay tuned for more information.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:30 Welcome to Gillette Stadium
2:35 Launching the Stars & Stripes Classic
5:31 Supporting VA disability claims
9:03 GBF transition support
11:42 GBF’s acquisition strategy
13:12 GBF’s vision

QUOTES

“We approached this as an opportunity to help the military connect to society.”
“Society needs to know their military.”
“Every Green Beret is going to leave the force at some point.”
“We’re taking care of Vietnam veterans who didn’t get their appropriate VA benefit 30, 40 years ago.”
“For many corporations, the skills piece is less important than the heart and commitment to mission. Whatever the mission is.”
“Green Beret’s understand commitment to purpose and working hard.”
“We’re trying to create a broad, holistic support capability for the regiment.”
“It’s not a matter of if, but when the next major conflict arises.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#162: Break The System - Representative Jake Ellzey (TX-6)

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Congress holds the power of the purse. The United States Government is the largest business in the world, but to conduct business - and national security - Congress has to approve the funds and the money.

Representative Jake Ellzey is now a 3-term Congressman representing Texas’s 6th District. He’s a Naval Academy graduate, a helicopter and fighter pilot, and a member of the House Appropriations Committee, where his decisions determine what the government funds and what it doesn’t. He’s also the co-chair of the bipartisan military Veterans alliance, the For Country Caucus.

With the American government changing at lightning pace, Fran Racioppi asked the Congressman how the Appropriations Committee is prioritizing funding, what that means for national defense, rooting out fraud, waste and abuse; and if there’s ever a way for America to balance the budget and stop overspending.

Representative Ellzey also shares why we need to clearly define America’s next battlefield, funding military readiness and innovation to combat both nation-state adversaries and terror groups, and the critical role he sees our Special Operations Forces playing in the grey war the United States is now in. Plus he shares his leadership lessons from the cockpit and the deck of the USS Ronald Reagan to the halls of Congress.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Ellzey’s office. Don’t miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
6:20 Veterans in Congress
9:12 Why the Navy?
10:50 The Appropriations Committee
14:45 Funding Executive Orders
17:24 DOGE’s impact
22:41 Funding Military Readiness
25:35 Role of SOF in the next conflict
27:20 The sentiment of America
31:50 Shout out to Green Berets
34:08 Defining the Battlefield
38:18 Why Was There An Open Border Policy
39:44 Can America Balance The Budget?
40:42 Is America Ready?
42:41 Military Lessons Taken To Congress

Key Quotes:

“There’s a thing about veterans: it really doesn’t matter which era, what your uniform, or how well you know somebody who’s a veteran…Nobody else gets into that world.”
“With SEALS, Green Berets, most pilots; tell me I can’t do something, and then watch.”
“CR’s are bad. Year-long CRs are terrible. Specifically for defense.”
“Once we know what the priorities of the President are, we’re not going to put something on the floor that ultimately he’s not going to sign.”
“It’s broken. So let’s break it. Let’s break the whole thing.”
“There’s not enough money to do everything we need to do to be completely ready.”
“It’s absolutely essential that our adversaries know that we’ve got the best in the world.”
“The sentiment of Americans is we’re strong again, we’re not to be trifled with, if you attack us, we’re going to hammer you.”
“I’m a huge fan of Green Berets.”
“I see weapons of mass destruction as the compounds that are making Fentanyl.”
“Never pass up the opportunity to shut up.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of my guests and myself. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

#161: Don't Bet Against America - Representative Don Davis (NC-1)

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:39:00 GMT

Veterans are once again dominating Congress. The start of the 119th Congress has 100 Veterans across both sides of the aisle. Veterans by and large focus on teamwork and getting results.

To kick off the excitement behind the new Congress, Fran Racioppi spent a few snowy days on Capitol Hill with the members of the For Country Caucus; a bi-partisan group of House of Representative members who have each served across America’s military.

Representative Don Davis is an Air Force Academy graduate, a two term Congressman representing North Carolina’s 1st District, and the Vice Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, as well as a member of the Subcommittee on Readiness and the Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces.

With the strength of American military power front and center, Fran asked Congressman Davis to explain just what the next battlefield may be, how ready the American military is to combat both terrorist organizations and near-peer nation states, as well as the role of Special Operations in the next conflict.

They also broke down the efforts of DOGE, Elon Musk and the application of the age old military sayings “slow is smooth, smooth is fast” and “speed and violence of action” gets things done.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Davis’s office. Don’t miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
2:05 Welcome to Capitol Hill
4:02 Veterans leading Congress
8:37 Expectations of Veterans in the Cabinet
10:51 Joining the Air Force
15:04 Joining State Politics before Federal Politics
21:37 Military Readiness
24:07 The Next Conflict
28:28 Defining the battlefield
30:43 The Terror Threat
33:28 Investing in Special Operations
36:01 Trump Administration actions

QUOTES

“When the orders came down we didn’t ask, ‘are these Democratic orders or Republican orders.’ We executed the mission.”
“The fundamental basis of that oath is to protect the constitution.”
“What I think was most important going back to eastern North Carolina was an opportunity to really shape future leaders.”
“There’s these potholes people are craving to be filled.”
“When there is a mission…are we capable?”
“We have to make sure the innocent civilians are kept safe.”
“Clearly there’s a willingness to target us.”
“Don’t bet against America.”
“At the end of the day try to make life better in communities.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of guests and host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

#160: Is The US Army Ready? 15th Sergeant Major Of The Army Dan Dailey

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:24:58 GMT

Readiness is the ability to close with and destroy any enemy, anywhere, anytime. The role of the Sergeant Major of the Army is to ensure readiness. Command Sergeant Major Dan Dailey was the 15th Sergeant Major of the Army and the youngest Soldier to ever hold the position. Today, he is the Vice President of Noncommissioned Officer and Soldier Programs at the Association of the United States Army.

SMA Dailey joined Creator and Host Fran Racioppi to define what it really means for the United States Army to be “ready” to fight and win our nation’s wars. To do so, they went deep on each of the components of readiness, including:

Manning and the impacts of the recruiting crisis the Army has endured over the past several years.
Training and the importance of the Combat Training Centers and our combined exercises across the components and with our allies.
Equipping for the next fight and why the current procurement processes must change if America expects to remain ahead in the innovation race.
Leader Development including why softening the messaging of warfighting hurts mission focus and how the Army is closing the experience gap as the Global War on Terror generation of Soldiers retire.

They also cover the important mission of the Association of the United States Army and how as the largest organization supporting our Soldiers their work only continues to grow. Watch, listen or read our conversation from the AUSA headquarters and don’t miss the rest of our AUSA series.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

QUOTES

“Individual readiness is when a soldier themself feels capable to accomplish their mission.”
“If you had one hour before your soldiers went to combat what would you train on.”
“The high percentage of people who serve today come from families who have served in the past….that funnel is getting smaller and smaller.”
“We have lost the value of service to our nation…is it actually a way to achieve the American dream?”
"If we send everybody to college, who’s going to do those jobs?”
“I think there’s a lot of young Americans out there who are fully capable to fight and win, they’re just not inspired.”
“If you create a standard that nobody in America can achieve, it’s not a standard.”
“This nation’s going to have an Army. America, not the Army, is going to decide how we do that.”
“The only more expensive thing than fighting a war is losing one.”
“Our first mission as the United States Military is to deter. Then to defeat.”
“Most people look at war as armed conflict between two entities. War is a conflict of wills.”

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
4:44 Becoming SMA
5:57 Readiness Defined
9:55 How does the Army train at each echelon?
11:49 Why become a Soldier?
13:21 Can the Army bring the American Dream?
19:53 Everyone can’t go to college
22:11 Is recruiting college athletes the answer?
25:14 Is there a reduction in standards?
30:22 Changing the Army’s message
34:13 Are we close to a draft?
36:05 Technology & Force Modernization
42:22 Is China ahead of America?
48:17 Training for every threat
52:48 Interoperability with Allies
55:17 Loss of combat experience
1:01:32 Next Generation Is Ready
1:05:20 Leading AUSA
1:11:01 Daily Habits

#159: America Is Vulnerable - Representative August Pfluger (TX-11)

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:57:00 GMT

Threats to America are at an all time high. Our national security and law enforcement professionals have warned us. Our military leaders are preparing for anything and everything.

Representative August Pfluger is the chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. He is now a 3-term Congressman representing Texas’s 11th District. He is also an Air Force Academy graduate and an F-22 fighter pilot with over 300 combat hours. As a member of the bi-partisan military Veterans alliance, the For Country Caucus, one of his biggest efforts is to build coalitions across the aisle.

With Homeland Security, terror threats and nation-state brinksmanship front and center, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Congressman to ask him what exactly the biggest threats to America are. They dug into the theory of an imminent terror attack, what the battlefield with China really looks like, and why preventing denial of service attacks and the cyber-security risks against America’s critical infrastructure should be at the top of the priority list.

They also discussed the future of SOF on an undefined battlefield, how the reduction of fraud, waste and abuse will open up funds for discretionary spending, and why disagreement should be encouraged; but when the decision is made, everyone needs to get in line and execute.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Pfluger’s office. Don’t miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Introduction
02:55 Veterans in Congress
02:35 Terror Threat To America
04:45 Cyber Threats
10:01 Future role of Special Operations
11:47 Lessons from Service in Congress

QUOTES

“There’s a level of trust when you know that somebody else has served.”
“It starts with just transparency. We live in a dangerous world. It’s not just a terrorism threat.”
“These non-nation state actors and even nation state sponsored cyber activities lie in that grey zone.”
“That’s where we’re really vulnerable is some of the smaller communities, some of the smaller banks, some of the smaller entities that provide these services. Denial of services. That’s what we’re worried about.”
“Every dollar of improper payment that is going somewhere else is a dollar we’re not spending on security.”
“SOF plays a huge role in deterrence. That to me is worth its weight in gold.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are brought to you by University of Health and Performance and are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of my guests and host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy, nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

#158: All or Nothing Won't Work - Representative Jason Crow (CO-6)

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:30:39 GMT

The job of America’s elected leaders is to get things done. The democratic process isn’t always pretty and almost never leaves everyone happy; but the effectiveness of our government and America’s stature as the world’s dominant superpower rest on Congress’s ability to find common ground on the issues.

Representative Jason Crow served in the United States Army 75th Ranger Regiment. He is now the Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Intelligence and Special Operations.

In his 4th term representing Colorado’s 6th district he’s looking to return power to the hands of Congress and has found himself at the center of many of America’s most controversial and important Congressional matters; an area he has learned to navigate through his previous leadership of the For Country Caucus, a bipartisan alliance of military veterans serving in the House of Representatives.

Congressman Crow joined Fran Racioppi to share just how he balances the most polarizing issues facing both sides of the aisle; including the investigation into the withdrawal from Afghanistan, the impeachment of President Donald Trump and the inquiry into the pre-election assassination attempts.

We discussed the impact of budget and personnel cuts to Special Operations and why it’s more important now than ever to invest in our SOF capability to prevent the next major conflict. We also covered border security, the use of active duty military in the enforcement of the border and how countering the cartels and the drug trade aren’t a new mission for Special Operations.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from Congressman Crow’s office. Don’t miss our full coverage from Capitol Hill. Special thanks to For Country Caucus for setting up this series.

The Jedburgh Podcast is brought to you by University of Health and Performance, developing the next generation of fitness entrepreneurs from our Veterans. The Jedburgh Podcast is an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

HIGHLIGHTS

00:00 Introduction
02:07 Jumping into D-Day
03:00 Rangers Lead The Way
04:35 Colorado 6th District
06:05 Veterans lead the 119th Congress
11:28 Role of SOF moving forward
13:10 Cutting SOF funding
16:30 Defending critical infrastructure
18:40 The Immigration Challenge
23:35 Special Forces on the border
25:45 Working across the aisle

QUOTES

“If everyone digs in and takes an all or nothing mentality…everybody gets nothing.”
“Congress has given away its authority for decades.”
“The CT threat is not gone.”
“We are building systems now…that will be completely ineffective on the battlefield of the future.”
“You build political will by leading. That’s in part our job.”
“If someone is committing violent crime in our community, they have no place in our community.”
“There has to be a pathway to citizenship for folks who are living peacefully in our community.”

#157: War Is Failure - Former Special Operator John McPhee

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Serving in Special Forces isn’t supposed to be easy. In fact, becoming a Green Beret is rewarding because it’s supposed to be hard. If it was easy, anyone could do it; but not everyone can, or should, be considered elite.

John McPhee is one of America’s former Special Operators, having served in the Infantry, Special Forces and briefly in Delta Force. The self proclaimed Sheriff of Baghdad tells it like it is and leaves nothing up to interpretation.

The Jedburgh Podcast, the Jedburgh Media Channel and the Green Beret Foundation are proud to announce our partnership with the University of Health and Performance outside of Bentonville, Arkansas. UHP is dedicated to building the world’s most elite fitness and nutrition entrepreneurs out of our Veterans.

John and Host Fran Racioppi climbed into the back of an armored Humvee to reminisce about the impact of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, what America did right, what we did wrong, and why the counter-terrorism battle is far from over.

John also shares his thoughts on the Army today, how to fix recruiting, the Israeli pager war, and why we must never forget that a Special Operator’s job is to close with and destroy the enemy.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from a vehicle many of us spent too much time in. Don’t miss our full Veterans Day coverage from UHP. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:50 Welcome to UHP
2:39 Rangers to Green Beret
4:00 Special Forces in the 90s
5:57 How 9/11 changed Special Forces
10:16 Legacy of Afghanistan
13:12 Sheriff of Baghdad
15:35 Disbanding the Iraqi government
18:20 The difference in Syria
19:42 Israel-Iran Pager War
25:30 Army Recruiting Challenges
27:05 Is the Army woke?
29:55 Next generation of NCOs
32:35 The PTSD debate
37:18 Wear yourself out everyday

QUOTES

"We had no bullets. No money to go train. The Army didn’t have a budget. The 90s Special Forces sucked.”
“This is where nations go to die. What did we think was going to happen?”
“You can’t do that. You can’t just get rid of the whole army like that.”
“We had enough money to buy where Saddam was without ever firing a shot.”
“Syria can never be tamed and it will always be a problem for us.”
“War is only a failure of politicians and politics.”
“We didn’t have an Army before WWII. We fielded 6 million men quick. When America gets pissed off, you’re done.”
“The Army needs to do two things only. Kill the bad guys and break their shit.”
“I would tell anybody to try to be the smartest guy in the room because generally the smartest guy in the room is going to be the best Commando.”
“I personally don’t believe in PTSD. You get stuck in the same chapter of your book.”
“Every human being should be taking an hour to two hours a day on themselves.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#156: Integrated Deterrence - Lt. Gen. E. John Deedrick, Former Commander 1st Special Forces Command & Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:48:00 GMT

Retired Lt. Gen. E. John Deedrick served as the final commander of the Combined Security Transition Command –Afghanistan (CSTC-A). He also held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Security Assistance (DCOS SA) at the Headquarters of Resolute Support; the NATO mission in Afghanistan. He was the United States Military Representative to NATO and commanded 1st Special Forces Command.

The Jedburgh Podcast, the Jedburgh Media Channel and the Green Beret Foundation are proud to announce our partnership with the University of Health and Performance outside of Bentonville, Arkansas.

To kick off our combined investment in the development of our Special Operators post service, Fran Racioppi sat down with Lt. Gen. Deedrick to discuss his take on the Army today, where it came from and where it’s going.

As one of the last senior leaders in Afghanistan he gave his honest assessment of the withdrawal, the impact leaving has had on our allies and Special Forces Operators, and what the void left has done for the Taliban and American national security.

They also discuss the importance of our allies, why NATO works, the Russian-North Korean Alliance in Ukraine, and counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism in the Grey Zone through integrated deterrence.

Finally, they talk about the effect of politics on our military and why our leaders all want the same goal, but have different paths to get there.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from the UHP. Don’t miss our full Veterans Day coverage from UHP. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
2:23 Welcome to University of Health and Performance
5:02 Why did we leave Afghanistan
8:02 Did we abandon our Afghan partners
11:04 Withdrawal Effect
13:24 The Taliban and Al-Qaeda
15:22 Enabling Iran
16:59 NATO’s importance
22:30 NATO vs Russia
28:38 The Ukraine conflict today
32:30 North Korea’s involvement
34:12 What makes a Green Beret different?
38:24 Changes to the ODA
41:14 Is China the next fight?
45:51 Politicizing the military
48:02 US forces deployed across America
49:38 Lt. Gen. Deedrick’s Sergeant
51:53 Daily Habits

QUOTES

04:10 “It was a pretty low cost to keep an eye on Al-Qaeda. And also off chutes that are as dangerous.”
13:23 “I hope we aren’t paying them not to attack us”
17:49 “Nobody freelances at NATO. NATO is an expression of the sovereign will of their capitals.”
26:30 “Don’t start a shooting war with Russia. I mean the two nuclear powers”
29:10 “When you are so reliant on other nations for your supply chains, you put yourself at risk.”
31:09 “You’ve got to go to North Korea to get weapons and soldiers. That’s just sad.”
45:20 “The most difficult fight would be China, so I think you have to use that as your pacing item and optimize your fight for that.”
45:52 “Lethality on the battlefield is critical.”
50:23 “What I would love to see is less personality and more policy.”
52:53 “It is a really bad idea to use the active duty US Military in a domestic capability.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#155: Veterans Don't Need Pity - University of Health & Performance Founder and CEO Matt Hesse

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:38:00 GMT

Transition back to civilian life is the biggest challenge our service men and women will face in their military careers. America invests millions in training our warfighters to be the most competent in the world. That investment shouldn’t end when the uniform comes off.

The Jedburgh Podcast, the Jedburgh Media Channel and the Green Beret Foundation are proud to announce our partnership with the University of Health and Performance outside of Bentonville, Arkansas.

Matt Hesse is the Founder and CEO of University of Health and Performance. This Veterans Day, Fran Racioppi sat down with Matt to share his vision to build a world-class development program to train our Veterans as certified personal trainers. In addition to the hard skills required to build health and fitness in others, UHP is also teaching the business skills needed to become successful entrepreneurs.

Matt explains the process, the details behind each course, why UHP has chosen Arkansas to call home, how he’s building an ecosystem to support all aspects of Veteran transition, and how UHP is leading the way in showing private industry just how valuable our Veterans will be for the next generation of America.

Watch, listen or read our conversation from the UHP gym. Don’t miss our full Veterans Day coverage from UHP. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast, the Green Beret Foundation and UHP on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:43 Welcome to the University of Health and Performance
3:25 Creating UHP
4:37 Why Health and Performance matters
7:46 UHP Programs
12:04 Field of Dreams
17:46 Preparing veterans for business
29:30 Lack of a military transition process
34:40 Future of UHP

QUOTES

“There’s nothing greater than serving democracy. Veterans created this country.”
“The health and performance of your life or your company need to be in balance.”
“You can take the four pieces of the blueprint: how to think intellectually, how to train physically, how to feel emotionally, and how to lead from a values perspective to build a strategy to get after whatever that purpose is.”
“A lot of us carry a lot of shit around that we have not let out yet and a big part of this place is helping people do that.”
“I believe that great visionary leaders are unencumbered by their own “I can’t do its.”
“Failure is not possible if you don’t quit.”
“Anybody can be an entrepreneur. I truly believe that.”
“My personal huge goal right now is to give veterans the opportunity to get out and catch up with their peers as fast as possible.”
“Most Veterans are highly competent, highly skilled, great leaders, who just want to do awesome purposeful work.”
“The DOD’s responsibility is to build a lethal fighting force. Period. End of story.”
“2025 we are going to launch Veterans Future Festival. It is going to be the largest veterans day event in the country, anywhere."

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#154: I Didn't Want To Be It - Leading Through The Boston Marathon Bombing - Boston Police Chief Daniel Linskey

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 10:20:00 GMT

Targeted violence, domestic terrorism and international terrorism are changing. In the past, America has been the victim of large scale coordinated attacks. Today, acts of mass violence are as simple as cars, fireworks and household items.

On April 15, 2013 two terrorists blew up homemade bombs at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Three innocent people were killed. Hundreds were injured. Boston Police Chief Daniel Linskey immediately found himself in charge of a mass casualty event and a multijurisdictional manhunt through the streets of Boston.

Chief Linskey joined Fran Racioppi to share how he overcame fear, panic and the realization that in an instant the entire city was looking to him for guidance and direction. He shares how preparation and training between law enforcement and first responders in the years leading up to the attack was critical in their response. And he explains why in emergency response, there’s no place for egos or credit, just action and results.

Join our conversation from the shores of Plymouth Harbor. Follow us on social media, read the full episode on our website, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch Chief Linskey talk about Team Maureen, an organization he founded to honor his late cousin focused on preventing cancer in our Veterans.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
3:32 Becoming a US Marine
8:47 Joining Boston Police
15:05 Public Perception of Law Enforcement Today
25:12 Are we prosecuting enough crime?
31:07 Immigration policy effect on policing
35:47 You’re It at the Boston Marathon
49:05 The bombing
1:00:20 Standing guard over the victims
1:19:37 The Manhunt
1:35:29 Boston Strong
1:39:04 Mental Health Mechanisms
1:43:00 Biggest Lesson
1:45:44 Thank you

QUOTES

“If you leave a place the same way you found it, you’re not leading.”
"If you want to learn leadership, lead.”
“Cops hate change. The other thing cops hate is the way things are.”
“If you think there’s a problem with policing and leadership…ok…join and see what you can do from the inside.”
“I would like to see any politician who is making policy on law enforcement to make them have to do a two week basic in-service class in law enforcement.”
“If people think there’s no accountability for assaulting a police officer…they’re gonna do it.”
“You can’t just say you’re training. You can’t just pretend you’re training. You can’t just say bang bang you’re dead.”
“Leadership is putting your team to the task.”
“He essentially said “Tag, you’re it boss. And I didn’t want to be it.”
“Along with the devastation was a wave of shame and guilt that washed over me.”
“I froze. I’m a United States Marine. I’m a cop. I’m the chief. I froze. I want to go home. I want to go home with my kids.”
“In crisis there are 5,000 things you got to do, but you need to focus on the five most important right now.”
“If you tell the troops what you want them to do and why they should do it, they’ll do it.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of Green Beret Foundation, supporting US Army Special Forces of all generations.

#153: Deter, Defend, Defeat - US Army Europe-Africa Command Sergeant Major Jeremiah Inman (80th Anniversary D-Day Series)

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 10:27:00 GMT

The United States Army invaded Europe in 1944 and has never left. America’s forward projection of its military was instrumental in the stabilization of Europe and the establishment of the world order that has existed since the end of World War II.

A critical piece of American power is US Army Europe-Africa; a command responsible for over 37,000 soldiers, 104 countries, 10 units and 9 garrisons. Over 70,000 US military personnel operate across Europe and Africa in either permanent positions or deployed in support of national security objectives.

To explain why US Army Europe-Africa is so important, Fran Racioppi sat down with Command Sergeant Major Jeremiah Inman, the command’s senior enlisted advisor.

Sergeant Major Inman breaks down the command’s mission to deter aggression and provide stability in some of the world’s most complicated and dynamic regions. He explains the magnitude of the command’s responsibilities; and also shares his biggest leadership lessons learned from his time in Ranger Regiment and how they prepared him to lead no matter the challenge.

Join our conversation from the bunkers of Pointe Du Hoc in Normandy, France. Follow us on social media, read the full episode on our website, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform for all our D-Day Coverage including our first documentary Unknown Heroes: Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction

1:42 Welcome to Pointe Du Hoc

3:20 The mission of US Army Europe-Africa

4:10 Guidance to the force

4:40 Joint exercises

5:00 The differences between Europe and Africa

6:22 Supporting Ukraine

7:23 Developing young NCOs

8:49 USAREUR-AF Lines of Effort

12:02 The Next Fight

12:52 The role of the Combat Training Centers

14:23 Special Operations & conventional force integration

14:47 Sergeant Major’s lessons learned

16:30 Daily Habits for success

QUOTES

“Our vision is to get up, show up and be ready to assist our partners. Continue to train and maintain that combat readiness in the event we do have to get into something.”
“If we can continue to train and work with our allies and partners now, when we do have to fight, we’ll already have those sets and reps and be a much more lethal force.”
“The young NCOs now are so much smarter than I’ll ever be.”
“We’re only empowered if our officers empower us.”
“We just got to be ready for anything. You don’t know what that next fight is.”
“Colonel Ralph Puckett’s like ‘I didn’t go to ranger school to be better than the next guy, I went to ranger school to be better than myself.’”
“When you show up, show up. Be present. Get after it. 100% and then some.”
“Physical training, marksmanship, battle drills, medical training. Then we added developing leaders of character. I think that’s kind of how I’ve been my entire career, is after those five aspects.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are official programs of the Green Beret Foundation.

#152: Cancer Doesn't Care If You're A Bad**s - Team Maureen Board Members Daniel Linskey, Kelly Welch, and Dr. Emily Penick

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 09:13:00 GMT

The health of our military service members and our Veterans is always a top line issue. Many suffer from illness and injury as a result of their service; and most are believed to be at higher risk for chronic sickness. Some of which is fortunately preventable.

Cancer is a top concern for much of the military community. To dig into the increased risk cancer poses to our Veterans, Fran Racioppi sat down with Team Maureen; an organization focused on bringing attention and prevention of HPV and HPV-related cancers to our Veterans.

Daniel Linskey, Kelly Welch and Dr. Emily Penick lead Team Maureen and founded the organization after the loss of their family and friend Maureen Russo.

Worldwide, a woman dies of cervical cancer every two minutes. It is the second-most frequent cancer in the world. The military community is twice as likely to develop HPV, yet immunization rates among our servicemembers are 50% of the civilian community. 90% of HPV-related cancers are preventable through immunization.

We broke down the facts of HPV, why it’s rising exponentially in our military, how it’s affecting both our women and men service-members, and what every single person, military and civilian, can do to prevent one of the deadliest, and preventable, cancers in society today.

Check out our conversation over-looking Plymouth Harbor and with Cardinals in the air. Follow us on social media, read the full episode on our website, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch this conversation and our follow-up with Danny as he shares how he led the Boston Police Department during the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:50 Welcome to the South Shore
4:44 What is Cervical Cancer?
8:09 How do you get Cervical Cancer?
9:49 What is the effect on men?
11:38 Screening for HPV
12:55 Oral Health importance
14:23 Low vaccination rates
17:40 Why are military at risk?
19:58 Vaccination process
24:57 Who was Maureen?
29:17 How are you educating people?
33:20 How do you get involved?

QUOTES

“Making sure that people know about the importance of prevention of HPV and early detection for cervical cancer is our mission.”
“Nobody should die of cervical cancer. It’s completely preventable.”
“Why not be at the forefront of HPV prevention?”
“This is something that can help your kids not get cancer.”
“Active duty military and Veterans are 2x as likely as civilians to develop cancers associated with HPV.”
“We should be able to get to that point where no one loses a loved one to cervical cancer.”
“You think you’re a badass. Cancer doesn’t care if you’re a badass.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of Green Beret Foundation, supporting US Army Special Forces of all generations.

#151: Strength Is Power - Georgia Congressman Rich McCormick

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 11:16:00 GMT

Voting is a foundation of democracy and key to American power, but also a process that can be ugly and divisive. In what many believe to be the most politically charged election period in modern history, Fran Racioppi took a few minutes to sit down with Congressman Rich McCormick, Representative for Georgia’s 7th district.

Representative McCormick shared his Elementary Issues of A, B, C, D, E: the American dream, the border, crime, debt, education and energy; why it’s dangerous to develop a culture of government giving, balancing compassion with security along our borders, and not hiding from the fact that America has real adversaries who seek to do us harm.

As a Marine Corps and Navy Veteran, emergency room doctor and former American Gladiator, the Congressman knows the importance of earning success and leading through adversity; character traits he has taken from his military service to the halls of Congress.

Join our conversation from Congressman McCormick’s Office. Follow us on social media, read the full episode on our website, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform for all our election coverage.

Stand for something, or stand to the side.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome to Capitol Hill
5:45 Georgia as a swing state
10:20 The Elementary Issues
13:40 Government Giving
17:12 A divided America
22:46 The Open Border Argument
25:20 Balancing compassion with security
30:03 The near-peer fight
32:28 Accepting America has adversaries
40:10 The role of SOF in the next fight
44:26 Why Congress needs more Veterans
51:55 Daily Foundations For Success

QUOTES

“People don’t realize how diverse the south is. Especially Georgia. And the opinions are just as diverse.”
“If you don’t have a good economy nobody thrives.”
“You’re never given value by what you’re given. You’re given value by what you earn.”
“When one party dominates we have more peace. Not necessarily more prosperity; but more peace.”
“If you end up isolated, you will end up at war.”
“It’s important not to think that we can huddle up in our country and think that nothing bad is gonna happen anywhere else.”
“We need to realize that we are less influential than China in about half of the western hemisphere. That’s scary.”
“If you want to be amongst greatness, look for adversity.”

Special thanks to the For Country Caucus for coordinating this interview.

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of our guests and creator and host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy; nor does Green Beret Foundation endorse any political candidate or any political party.

#150: Supporting Green Berets Of Every Generation - Green Beret Foundation President & CEO Charlie Iacono

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 12:27:43 GMT

Charlie Iacono is the President and CEO of Green Beret Foundation. Almost two years into his tenure, Charlie is pushing the foundation, and its staff, to become the premier charitable organization supporting America’s most important asset; our US Army Green Berets.

Charlie joined joined Fran Racioppi from what may be his biggest brain child yet; the Stars and Stripes Classic. An epic battle between Green Berets and Navy SEALS from the home of greatness and the GOAT, Gillette Stadium.

In his first long-form interview since taking charge, he shared his vision for the foundation, where it’s come from, the impact it’s made on Green Berets of every generation and how 2025 is set to become the most important year in its history as it increases investment in programs supporting the careers and health of transitioning operators.

Leading non-profit organizations is hard. Leading one that lives up to the standard of the Green Beret is even harder. So Charlie explains what’s important to him, how he’s transforming the staff, why service is the foundation of the job, and how building relationships is critical to making an impact.

Check out our conversation from the New England Patriots Bubble prior to the Stars and Stripes Classic. Although our snake eating bearded bastards fell to the squids, the intensity of the game looked more like a classic from the 80’s. Plus, there’s always next year.

Follow us on social media, read the full episode on our website, and head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the Stars and Stripes Classic.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
2:06 Welcome to the Stars and Stripes Classic
3:55 GBF progress
8:11 Creating the Jedburgh Media Channel
11:49 Next Ridgeline 2.0
20:20 GBF Scholarships
24:21 Processing VA Disability Claims
30:58 Warrior Sportsmen Salmon Fishing
37:42 Goals for 2025

QUOTES

“There’s just so much cross pollination between the two sports. Between football and lacrosse. And then lacrosse and the SOF world.
“I’m a big believer that there are no days off.”
“We need to do it for the next conflict. We need to be ready to pick up that phone when that phone rings.”
“The team wins as a team. The team loses as a team. The team struggles as a team. The team succeeds and excels as a team.”
“They need to be coached up on it. What does your next job look like? What do you want your next to look like?”
“The biggest piece to Next Ridgeline 2.0 program is it focuses on the promotion of strength of mind, body and spirit.”
“It’s critically important that we as Green Berets talk about who we are, why we’re different, and why it matters..”
“Anybody who serves should not have to pay a dime out of their own personal money to further themselves.”
The 2025 goal is to “continue to make this organization into something that the entire regiment, all generations, as well as their families are proud of.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League, the New England Patriots, and all our sponsors who supported the game. 2025 is here and Green Beret Foundation continues to lead from the front no matter the challenge.

#149: AIRBORNE - US Army Golden Knights Lieutenant Colonel Andy Moffit & Command Sergeant Major Adam Breeding (D-Day 80th Anniversary Series)

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Airborne operations were an essential component of the Allied invasion. And since D-Day, the US Army has stood ready to drop airborne forces anywhere in the world at any time.

The US Army Golden Knights are America’s most proficient parachutists. Led at the time of this recording by Green Beret Lieutenant Colonel Andy Moffit and Command Sergeant Major Adam Breeding, the Golden Knights set the example for airborne insertion onto any drop zone.

LTC Moffit and CSM Breeding joined Fran Racioppi from atop the Normandy Resistance Monument in Saint Marie Dumont to discuss just what it means to be Airborne, both in 1944 and today. They shared what it takes to join the Golden Knights, how they maintain standards and why they are always competing for the perfect jump; especially when the eyes of the world are watching.

Check out our conversation from the birthplace of modern Special Forces and home to one of the largest airborne drops in history; then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media and make sure to tune into our first documentary, Unknown Heroes: Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh available now only on YouTube.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
2:12 Welcome to Normandy
5:03 Golden Knights’ mission
7:00 Why become a Golden Knight
9:05 What is a Golden Knight?
12:56 Building A Great Team
15:31 Maintaining a High Operational Tempo
17:14 Best part of being a Golden Knight
18:04 The meaning of Normandy
22:20 Future of the Golden Knights
27:29 Daily Foundations of Success

QUOTES

“Our mission is to connect America’s people to her Army.”
“I really had to check my ego at the door.”
“Culture is king. Culture is everything.”
“It really comes down to how teachable are you.”
“It’s that healthy level of fear though. That’s what keeps them focused.”
“We jump from thousands of feet. A good portion of the team is afraid of heights.”

#148: America's Grey War - Former Boeing Chief Security Officer and President of Hostage US Dave Komendat

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 09:26:07 GMT

National security isn’t led solely by government entities and the military. Public-private sector partnerships often drive many of our national security decisions.

To dig into the importance of the private sector in defense of America, Fran Racioppi sat down with Dave Komendat; a 36-year Veteran of Boeing; one of the world’s largest defense contractors and a critical component of America’s economy.

Dave retired after serving as The Boeing Company’s Chief Security Officer, where he ensured the safety and security of over 170,000 employees and $77 Billion in annual revenue.

Dave and Fran discussed how private companies partner with the US government, how security has evolved since 9/11, and how to build a culture of security in our companies and as a nation. They also break down the magnitude of Boeing, its impact on the aviation and defense industries, and the future of aviation security across a multitude of threats.

Dave is also the Chairman of Hostage US, a non-profit supporting the families of American hostages and those wrongfully detained, as well as hostages and detainees when they return home. They take a few minutes to unpack hostage diplomacy and how America’s adversaries are using unlawful detention as a tool to compete with American power abroad.

Watch, listen or read our entire National Security series. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Watch the full video version from Epigen Technology in Arlington, VA on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction

2:16 We’re in a grey war

5:52 The Chief Security Officer

7:33 Assessing risk

15:12 Public-Private Security Partnership

20:24 Starting as an intern

24:13 Building a successful team

33:05 Leading in a massive organization

37:15 Embracing a security culture

39:50 The relationship between safety and security

46:36 Duty of care

50:45 The rise of insider threats

55:22 Boeing on 9/11

59:15 Airplane cyber-security

1:04:23 Next generation of security leadership

1:10:34 Hostage US

1:20:00 Daily Foundations of Success

Quotes

“I think we’re in a grey war.”
“The Chief Security Officer at most corporations is a thinker. They’re a strategist. They’re a risk manager.”
“You can’t go into a CEO everyday and the sky is falling. You lose your credibility.”
“Different leaders have different risk tolerances.”
“Be empathetic with people doing jobs that don’t get a lot of fanfare.”
“The longer I was in a leadership role, the more I valued when people told me ‘that wasn’t very good.”
“We ran security like a business. We tried to demystify what we did.”
“I didn’t want to be viewed as a necessary evil. I wanted to be viewed as a necessity.”
“The worst thing you can do is deliver a product that’s already been compromised to the warfighter.”
“If you only call people when you need something, you don’t have a relationship.”

Investing In America's Military Infrastructure: Jumping In With Arkansas Senator John Boozman

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 GMT

On Veterans Day we celebrate our military from every service and every generation. Freedom requires people of character to stand up for America…no matter the challenge.

This Veterans Day, the Jedburgh Podcast, the Jedburgh Media Channel and the Green Beret Foundation are proud to announce our partnership with the University of Health and Performance outside of Bentonville, Arkansas.

Dedicated to providing our transitioning service members with the skills needed to build careers in health and fitness, and as entrepreneurs, UHP is leading the way in showing private industry just how valuable our Veterans will be for the next generation of America.

While at UHP, Fran Racioppi spent some time with Senator John Boozman, an Arkansas native and the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations. Senator Boozman is the son of an Air Force Master Sergeant and has made national security a top priority of his service.

The Senator and Fran discussed his initiatives to improve quality of life for service members and their families, why building world class facilities is critical to recruiting, and how national security is the foundation of a strong economy. They also shared why all leaders need to bring the country together to get things done for the American people.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:50 Welcome to the University of Health and Performance
2:37 Veterans Day in Arkansas
4:52 Modernization of military infrastructure
6:46 Investing for the next fight
8:13 Senate priorities post election
11:53 Bringing America together

QUOTES

“We talk about Veterans. It always is a family affair. The whole family signs up.”
“We’ve got Canada and Mexico as our neighbors. We fight a little bit. It’s like family. You scrabble, but your friends. We like each other.”
“I do think our country’s divided. We need to bring it together.”
“In the Senate the reality is in order to get something passed it has to be somewhat bipartisan.”
“The harder you work to help your teammate, the better off you are.”

Watch, listen or read all our Veterans Day coverage from UHP. The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of the guests and the host. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy.

Arkansas Is Open For Veterans: Jumping In with Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:00:00 GMT

On Veterans Day we celebrate our military from every service and every generation. Freedom requires people of character to stand up for America…no matter the challenge.

While at UHP, Fran Racioppi had the chance to sit down with Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the youngest Governor in America and one of only 13 female Governors across the country. Governor Sanders is a staunch advocate for up-skilling transitioning Veterans and is working hard to ensure Arkansas has the resources and job opportunities to bring Veterans to the state.

The Governor and Fran discussed her Veterans initiatives, her outlook now that the 2024 election is decided, and how it is incumbent upon all leaders to bring the country together to get things done for the American people.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Introduction
1:46 Welcome to the University of Health and Performance
2:12 Veterans Day in Arkansas
3:08 Arkansas is upskilling Veterans
4:22 Women Governors are changing America
5:23 America post-election
6:36 Can America come together?

QUOTES

“Creating an atmosphere that allows us to keep Veterans right here in Arkansas is a great thing.”
“We want this to be the best place for Veterans to call home.”
“Having women in leadership I think is absolutely critical to the long term success of our county.”
“We have to focus on things everybody can agree on and things that lift our country up.”
“Remember where the enemies are; and it’s not within our own country.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Watch, listen or read all our Veterans Day coverage. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform and watch us on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

The opinions presented on the The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are the opinions of the guests and the host Fran Racioppi. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Green Beret Foundation and the Green Beret Foundation assumes no liability for their accuracy.

#147: Hostage Diplomacy: Surviving Venezuelan Captivity - Former Wrongful Detainee Jose Pereira of the Citgo 6

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 13:02:00 GMT

Hostage diplomacy is an ugly game. For decades America’s adversaries have imprisoned US citizens in an effort to leverage diplomatic, economic or military advantage. These cases range from exaggerated charges, to disproportionate penalties, to outright lies. Each case is different. And each case affects both the lives of the incarcerated, their families and ultimately American power.

Jose Pereira was held prisoner by the Venezuelan government for five years. He was the CEO of Citgo and after a Thanksgiving Day meeting in Caracas, he and five other Citgo executives were arrested and charged with bribery, corruption and other false charges. They became known as the Citgo 6.

Jose joined Fran Racioppi to share the story of his captivity, his year long solitary detention in the Submarine, starvation, sickness, sham trials, and his time in a coma. Jose talks about his mental battles with depression and suicidal ideation.

Like all great leaders, Jose sought solutions using the buckets his food was delivered in as a clandestine courier service to exchange letters with his wife. These letters kept him alive, gave him hope and now serve as the foundation to his new book “From Hero To Villain: My True Story of the Citgo 6.”

Special thanks to Hostage US for supporting the families of American hostages and those wrongfully detained, as well hostages and detainees when they return home.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome Home
3:39 Summoned to Venezuela
7:51 Surviving the first 48 hours
16:05 Bargaining chips for oil
20:09 Smuggling letters in food
23:58 The toll on the family
28:07 Captive with Green Berets
30:24 Prisoner Swap
38:47 Hostage Diplomacy
41:34 The challenges of coming home
45:51 The role of Hostage US
49:19 The healing process
51:01 Daily Foundations to Success

QUOTES

For us, Thanksgiving became kind of a nightmare.”
“Nobody was prepared because this was a sham situation.”
“They target high profile people because they need to leverage you.”
“I stayed 10 months in total confinement.”
“In those containers I found that you could put a double bottom.”
“Your family is a hostage even worse than you. They are a spiritual and mental hostage.”
“Bring the American back no matter the tool that you need to use.”
“You are literally caught in a time machine. You are literally in a cage for five years.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Watch, listen or read our conversation from Epigen Technology in Arlington, VA. Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.

Nobody Is Coming To Save You: Jumping In With Green Beret Scott Mann

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 10:47:00 GMT

Nobody’s coming to save you. It’s a simple phrase, but one that can mean the difference between success and failure. Elite performers know that when it’s time to take action, they need to be ready to execute with precision and without excuse.

Scott Mann is a retired Special Forces Officer, the architect of Operation Pineapple Express, and a leader who knows how to get results against the odds.

Scott first joined Fran Racioppi after the withdrawal from Afghanistan to share how he took a stand when few would. Now he’s showing us just how to apply an action first mindset to anything we set out to do.

Our rainy Sunday morning conversation from the banks of New York City’s East River was the perfect backdrop to break down his new book; Nobody’s coming to save you: a Green Beret’s guide to getting big shit done.

Scott defines the churn; the divisiveness, fear-laden complexity of the world that is in our face 24/7 across our devices. He shows us how that has put us all in a trance of distraction, disengagement, disconnection and distrust where transactional relationships focus on performing for each other instead of connecting. As a leader of action, Scott gives us the cure; which rightfully so will be MESSY.

Jump In with Scott and Fran as they wake up New York City, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage of the 2024 election cycle and our national security series with today’s most prominent Special Forces leaders.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome to New York City
2:07 Why is Nobody Is Coming To Save You?
4:05 The Four D’s
6:40 The loss of social connection
17:20 Get MESSY to get s**t done
18:35 Storytelling matters

QUOTES

“We are in our own form of that unprecedented churn.”
“The average attention span of a human in the west is eight seconds.”
“We’ve atrophied the ability to tap into what’s below the waterline of our human nature.”
“Now it’s a verb. ‘I’m going to unfriend you.’”
“We’ve lost the ability to make human connection in a meaningful way..”
“We ignore storytelling at our peril. Everything has become bullet points.”
“It wasn’t the stories they told; it was the stories they asked to hear.”
“All of us are capable of strategic outcomes if we set our mind to it.”

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Solutions Not Problems: Jumping In With Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23)

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 18:53:00 GMT

Everyone has a top button item this election cycle. For some it’s the economy. For others its national defense or healthcare. For Congressman Tony Gonzales it’s the US southern border and immigration.

Representative Gonzales is responsible for Texas’s 23rd district, a district that contains over 800 miles of the US-Mexico border, and by many accounts, ground zero for the immigration policy battle.

Representative Gonzales is also a retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer where he served over 20 years as a cryptologist.

The Congressman and Host Fran Racioppi broke down the border debate from his Texas perspective, including the effects of current policy on both domestic and international security. With the election coming, we discussed the importance of battleground states and why Texas is important from the top of the ticket to the bottom.

Finally we covered leadership, how Veterans are making an impact through the halls of Congress, and why action is critical in a job in which you can do as much or as little as you want.

Check out our conversation then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage of the 2024 election cycle.

HIGHLIGHTS

0:00 Welcome to Capitol Hill
3:06 People are mad?
5:14 Solutions over problems
9:04 From the Navy to Congress
12:04 Is America ready for the next war?
15:00 America in 2023

QUOTES

“I’m doing all the things I’m supposed to do, but somehow I’m in the back of this line.”
“If Republicans are going to be successful we have to be talking about solutions, not just problems.”
“If you’re weak, or perceived as weak at home, that’s when your adversaries are going to take advantage.”
“If somebody comes over illegally, they immediately get their day in court.”
“It isn’t my job to be the cheerleader of the organization. It’s my job to check the organization.”
“The best thing about being a member of Congress is that you can do as much or as little as you want.”
“We will adapt. We will overcome. We will find a way to get to victory.”
“Whatever your thing is, get involved.”

Special thanks to the For Country Caucus for coordinating this interview.

#146: From Jedburgh To Green Beret - 1st Special Forces Command CSM David Waldo & CW5 Felix Mosqueda

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 11:06:35 GMT

The United States Army Special Forces command teams are composed of a commissioned officer, a warrant officer and senior non-commissioned officer. A model has evolved over time and is tributed with being a key component to success on the battlefield of yesterday and today.

To break down just Army Special Forces balances strategy, experience and teamwork, Creator and Host Fran Racioppi sat down with Command Sergeant Major Dave Waldo and Command Chief Warrant Officer Felix Mosqueda; two of the three senior-most leaders of First Special Forces Command.

From atop the Normandy Resistance Monument in Saint Marie Dumont, we broke down what it means to be a Green Beret and how the mission has evolved from the Jedburgh Teams of D-Day to today’s Operational Detachments.

CSM Waldo and Chief Mosqueda shared their priorities and vision for Army Special Forces, how the regiment is adapting in the post Global War on Terror environment, the misconception of the Special Forces mission and how they are tackling the recruiting and manning challenges needed for the next battlefield; whether that be against a peer, near peer or terrorist adversary.

Check out our conversation from the birthplace of modern Special Forces; then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

And don’t miss our first documentary, Unknown Heroes: Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh available now only on YouTube.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction

3:18 Welcome to the Normandy Resistance Monument

7:19 Commissioned Officers, NCOs and Warrant Officers

11:23 Preparing the Regiment

13:57 Solving the recruiting challenge

16:56 Are changes coming to the structure of Special Forces?

18:56 Lessons from GWOT

24:14 Defining the next fight

26:02 Current SF culture

30:23 Vision for the Regiment

34:29 The New Uniforms

35:32 Foundations to success

40:13 Football predictions

Quotes

“They knew they had no choice. There was no can. There was no try. Hope was not a course action. It was only must.”
If it’s important to my boss, it’s important to me. If it’s cool to my boss, it’s fascinating to me.”
“Make no mistake about it. And to our adversaries who are listening to this. We are absolutely the top of the mountain.”
“Are we meeting the numbers? No.”
“Always do more with less. We’re able to do that because of our training pipeline.”
“We have to focus on all the missions because every part of the world is set up differently.”
“First contact should not be human contact. It should be some sort of tech or robotic.”
“Our adversaries are brilliant. They’re also lethal. But do they love each other the way that our folks do?”
“If you build good command teams it never gets lonely at the top.”

Congress Supports Veterans: Jumping In With Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-1)

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Supporting our veterans is a commitment that transcends politics—it’s a matter of national honor. In this episode, host Fran Racioppi sits down with Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a 24-year Army Reserve veteran and representative for Iowa's First Congressional District.

Together, they explore critical issues facing veterans today, including the readiness of the VA to handle the influx of post-9/11 service members, mental health challenges, and the impact of the PACT Act. Congresswoman Miller-Meeks shares her unique perspective on veteran care, the importance of accountability within the VA, and the role Congress plays in ensuring our veterans receive the care and support they deserve. Check out our conversation then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the halls of Congress.

Highlights

0:00 Welcome to Congress

1:40 Veterans top issues in Congress

3:03 Increasing oversight of the VA

4:23 GWOT Veterans influx into the VA

5:50 Expectations of the 2024 election cycle

Quotes

“13 new Gold Star Families that did not have to lose their children.”
“Do we want the VA to do voter registration or do we want them to focus on caring for Veterans?”
“We also added the PACT Act. Any disorder is presumed to be related to your service.”
“Irrespective of who’s at the top of the ticket, you have to make the case for yourself.”

#145: Today's SOF Challenge - US Army Special Operations Command Commanding General LTG John Braga

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 10:41:01 GMT

Army Special Operations Forces are led by LTG John Braga, Commander of United States Army Special Operations Command. General Braga and Creator and Host Fran Racioppi stormed the Utah Beach Communication Bunker responsible for the coordination of German defenses and later the facilitation of the largest amphibious assault in history.

From this iconic setting, we unpacked the significance of World War II on international norms still in play today and challenged at a level not seen since the pre-war era. General Braga shared his vision for Army Special Operations, his focus on threat-informed decision-making, and how Special Operations has evolved; but more importantly where it needs to go and why it’s not there yet.

He also explains how Special Operations are preparing for conflict with nation-states like China and Iran, while also ensuring terrorist organizations have no sanctuary across the globe. Finally, we talk about integration, and why Special Operations is a critical node in the cyber and space fight deep behind enemy lines.

Check out our conversation from underneath Utah Beach. Head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all our coverage from the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

And don’t miss our first documentary, Unknown Heroes: Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh available now only on YouTube.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction

3:25 Welcome to the Le Roosevelt Cafe Bunker on Utah Beach

8:14 Significance of Operation Jedburgh

10:15 Rangers on Omaha Beach

13:35 US Army Special Operations mission

19:10 Role of Psychological Operations

24:10 Winning Cognitive Warfare?

29:43 A change to the Special Forces teams?

32:10 Top priority on the next battlefield?

41:10 Combatting an enemy that doesn’t value life?

44:32 The USASOC culture

49:43 Destroying the enemy

55:28 USASOC’s future

1:00:05 Foundations to Success

Quotes

“Here we have the Jedburghs, with small teams having complete outsized impacts.”
“We challenge the force…to be strategically driven in everything you do.”
“We weren’t created for counter-terrorism.”
“You need to be an information officer.”
“People are the weapon system of USASOC. That’s our greatest investment.”
“Every STEM robotics club in high school in America needs to know we have a home for them in Army Special Operations.
“We have to modernize. We have to change. Or we'll be behind the adversary.”
“The only way to win is a whole of nation and whole of society approach.”
“I want to be surrounded by people who want to push themself.”
“Everyone should be challenging the training calendar. What are you training for?”
“We can’t be afraid of changing because we might get something wrong.”

Choose Elite: Jumping In with Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder Paul Rabil (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:27:00 GMT

There’s a difference between the elite and everyone else. Elite by definition means superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society. Elite is not good. It is not great. It certainly is not above average. To be elite means you’re among the best.

The Stars and Stripes Classic pitted America’s two most elite Special Operations Forces against each other on the lacrosse field.

To talk about what it means to be elite, not just in sports but in anything you do, Fran Racioppi sat down with Paul Rabil. Paul is the co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League and undoubtedly one of the most elite lacrosse players to ever play the game.

Paul is multiple time NCAA champion, a four year All American, he holds NCAA records for the most goals, assists and points. He is a multiple time Player of the Year and two time champion. He holds the most points in professional lacrosse. He is what every young lacrosse player ascribes to be.

Paul is also an elite visionary and businessman. He developed the PLL out of the gaps he saw as a player. Now he’s changing professional sports and how athletes are treated by owners.

Check out our conversation from the endzone of Gillette Stadium to learn how anyone can be elite if you're ready to put in the work and relentlessly execute. Head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters took on the Frogmen.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction

2:33 Stars and Stripes Classic

4:18 The level of play

5:57 Toughness & extra work

8:31 Earn it every day

12:49 Building an elite sports league

18:15 How does it feel?

22:08 How to process the hard times

Quotes

“Lacrosse is sloppy. That’s also the beauty of it.”
“Those that choose to be elite, it’s a lifestyle.”
“Earn the right to stay here and be here.”
“You just don’t really fake integrity. Someone will suss it out.”
“If you don’t go all in, you’ll never reach your potential.”
“Attempting to become a subject matter expert is so important in entrepreneurship.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League and Kraft Sports and Entertainment for hosting the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Toughness is 100%: Jumping In with West Point Lacrosse Head Coach Joe Alberici and Ben Harrow (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:22:00 GMT

Toughness defines Special Operations and the sport of lacrosse. Toughness requires a person to deal with hardship, overcome difficult situations, persevere through mental and physical challenges. Toughness is one part natural, one part learned, and one part the result of consistency. To excel as a Green Beret, Navy SEAL or a lacrosse athlete, you better be tough.

Joe Alberici and Ben Harrow are two tough men. Joe is the head coach of Men’s lacrosse at West Point, and Ben is a West Point lacrosse alumni, Green Beret and double leg amputee.

Coach and Ben joined Fran Racioppi to recap the Stars and Stripes Classic, what it meant for our Green Berets and Navy SEALs to face off on the lacrosse field, how to build teams based on being tough, and what it takes to win no matter the challenge; whether that’s on the playing field, the battlefield or the boardroom.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters took on the Frogmen.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
2:05 Stars and Stripes is in the books
3:17 Break down the game for us
4:57 Ben Harrow is toughness
6:46 Why is toughness important?
10:39 West Point lax is a player
15:01 Put in the extra work
16:22 What did you tell the team after the game?

Quotes

“Clock got a little short on us. Time ran out.”
“Toughness is when you're 100%, 100% of the time.”
“Grateful for everything. Entitled to nothing.”
“If you can be an elite human being…you’ll probably be a pretty darn good Army lacrosse player.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League and the Kraft Group for hosting us the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Putting Players First: Jumping In with Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder Mike Rabil (Stars And Stripes Classic Series)

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:25:00 GMT

The greatest entrepreneurial adventures take a lot of sleepless nights, a bias for action and a commitment to people. Starting a professional sports league is no different.

As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi is joined by Mike Rabil, the co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League. Mike and his brother Paul, started the league with a vision to put the players at the center of the business model.

From better pay, to open marketing, to benefits and equity in the league, they’re redefining how professional sports embraces their athletes.

Mike shared the market opportunity he and Paul saw in lacrosse and how they relentlessly pursued investment and support. He explained how giving players equity, access to marketing content and a seat at the table have created a more inclusive league. And he showed us where the sport is headed with regional affiliation.

They also previewed the Stars and Stripes Classic coming September 2 to Gillette Stadium where the bonds between lacrosse and Special Operations will face off for the very first time.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with the business mind behind the PLL, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen.

Highlights

0:00 Welcome to Fairfield University
4:15 What was the vision for the PLL?
6:21 How do you start a pro sports league?
8:10 How does the open marketing concept help promote the game?
10:20 Why introduce regional affiliation?
12:07 Why keep the 2-point shot?
12:48 How do you recruit the best athletes to lacrosse?
15:46 The Stars and Stripes Classic?

Quotes

“I slept on a lot of hotel floors. Cried, bled a lot.”
“People ask us who our competitors are. I say ‘all the other sports.’”
“We know we need to continue to pay the players more.”
“Each time these guys stop on the field they get five stock options.”
“The lacrosse community is really tied into Special Forces.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Winning Is In The Details: Jumping In with California Redwoods Head Coach Nat St. Laurent (Stars and Stripes Classic Series)

Sat, 24 Aug 2024 10:28:00 GMT

Performing at an elite level isn’t about doing special things. It’s about focusing on the basics and the fundamentals; then executing them with precision. A coach’s job is to harness the energy of the players and direct it towards a common goal.

As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with the Head Coach of the California Redwoods and Army Reservist Nat St. Laurent.

Nat’s primary mission is to take a group of elite alpha lacrosse athletes all capable of big things and get them to focus on the little details; a skill he learned teaching soldiers to throw hand grenades as an instructor. He shares his Army lessons learned and how they made him a better coach.

Nat also provided his perspective on the growth of the Premier Lacrosse League, how regional affiliation has enhanced the fan base, and how everything the PLL does is all out; including the 2-point shot.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of the PLL’s inaugural coaches, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic.

Don’t forget to go to Green Beret Foundation to join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
2:27 Welcome to Fairfield University
3:14 PLL regional affiliation
5:06 Growing the PLL fan base
6:47 What Army lessons do you use as a coach?
9:28 PLL player development
11:32 The 2-point shot
13:12 Staying focused in down times
14:54 Stars and Stripes Classic

Quotes

“Whatever the PLL does it’s all out.”
“Being part of something bigger than yourself…it becomes an honor.”
“It is extremely important to do those little things right and to do it with a purpose that’s bigger than yourself.
“Our mindset every game is 1-0. We can’t do anything about the results from previous games.”
“They’re not going to be able to turn over their compete level.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

We're Not Playing For Second Place: Jumping In with Team USA Head Coach & Premier Lacrosse League Director of Competition Seth Tierney (Stars & Stripes Classic Series)

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:54:00 GMT

The United States doesn’t play for second place. Not on the battlefield and certainly not on the lacrosse field. As we gear up for the first ever Stars and Stripes Classic, Fran Racioppi sat down with Head Coach of Team USA Seth Teirney. Seth is also the Director of Competition at the Premier Lacrosse League and the Head Coach of Hofstra University.

He’s involved in every aspect and level of lacrosse from the pros down to youth. He’s a national champion as a coach and played in the National Lacrosse League as a player.

Seth’s attitude about lacrosse is gold medal or bust. Fran and Seth covered why it takes “feeling the sport” to compete at the highest level as both an athlete and a coach. Seth shared the launch story of the PLL from a broken down bus in Israel and how the PLL honors the Indigenous legacy of lacrosse.

Seth also gives his tips to parents raising athletes and explains what it means to coach the US National Team. Plus he makes his prediction for the battle of the year, as the Green Berets take on the Navy SEALs September 2 at Gillette Stadium.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of lacrosse’s greatest players and coaches, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch all the action from the Stars and Stripes Classic. Head over to Green Beret Foundation and join our 18 Series Match Challenge to support our team as the Snakeeaters take on the Frogmen.

Highlights

0:00 Introduction
1:27 Welcome to Fairfield University
3:30 Setting the lacrosse example
5:16 Growing the PLL
7:12 The origins of lacrosse
8:58 Lacrosse is about feeling
10:49 How have the players evolved?
12:48 Gold medal or bust
14:08 How coaches have changed
16:01 Is junior level competition healthy?
18:00 A tribute to Andy Towers
19:53 The PLL’s next phase
21:48 Recruiting the top athletes
22:46 Stars and Stripes Classic

Quotes

“This whole thing started when a bus broke down in 2018 in Israel.”
“This sport. Where it came from. It was not just playing. It was understanding.”
“It’s not written down in a handbook. You’ve got to be able to feel the game.”
“It’s an all-in sport that is on fire right now.”
“There is no second place. We’re not playing for second place. It’s gold medal or bust.”
“When we get the Stars and Stripes Game going…that’s a forever day.”

Special thanks to the Premier Lacrosse League for hosting us at Fairfield University and for sponsoring the Stars and Stripes Classic.

#144: Leading with Diplomacy - General (Retired) Joseph Votel, Former CENTCOM & SOCOM Commander

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:00:00 GMT

For decades the Middle East has been America’s top national security challenge.

From terrorism, to war, to regional instability, it takes more than a military effort to find solutions.

As America navigates one of the most volatile times in history, Fran Racioppi sat down with retired General Joseph Votel, one of America’s most influential leaders and scholars in Middle East policy.

General Votel served as Commander of United States Special Operations Command, US Central Command, Joint Special Operations Command and 75th Ranger Regiment; organizations critically responsible for America’s Middle East operations.

General Votel unpacked the reasons why Hamas chose to attack Israel, Iran’s malign influence, and the responsibility of the other Gulf states in preventing regional instability.

He also broke down the opportunities the United States has across the diplomatic, information, military and economic spectrum; including America’s ability to mobilize for a peer-to-peer fight. Plus he talked all things Ranger Regiment, the officer-NCO relationship, and keys to effective leadership.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one the Army’s most respected leaders then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch up on our entire national security series from Washington, DC and Fort Liberty, NC.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Odgers Berndtson
3:07 The rise of China and Russia
13:47 Why is Iran on the offensive?
21:14 Using the elements of National Power
24:34 The impacts of the Israel-Gaza War
32:55 General Votel’s call to serve
42:35 Advice to new leaders
47:42 How the NCO corps separates the US military
56:46 The role of Special Forces in the peer-to-peer fight
1:05:09 Solving the recruiting challenge
1:13:28 General Votel's Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

“In a word, they’ve had it and they're trying to reassert themselves.”
“Putin has pretty much told us what he wants to do. He wants to eclipse the United States.”
“The Gulf partners, the other Arab states, aren’t that keen on having a new Palestinian state in the region.”
“We have over-militarized a lot of our foreign policy in these areas. We need to be leading with diplomacy.”
“If you open these humanitarian corridors, are you arming your adversary?”
“When I showed up to West Point…instant buyer’s remorse.”
“To me, leadership has really become about the basics.”
“I had a Sergeant Major. Bill Thetford. We were together for eight plus years; longer than the average American marriage.”

Special thanks to Odgers Berndtson for hosting this conversation.

#143: There's No Do-overs In The Next Fight - Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 09:56:00 GMT

The responsibility for recruiting, training and retaining US Army soldiers sits on the shoulders of the Sergeant Major of the Army; a job in which there is no training course and where experience is the defining factor.

To break down what the Sergeant Major of the Army does, the current state of the Army, and where the Army is headed, Fran Racioppi traveled deep into the center of the Pentagon for a conversation with Sergeant Major Mike Weimer, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Army and the first Green Beret selected for the role.

The SMA defined professional warfighting and the importance of an all volunteer force. He broke down the art and science relationship between commissioned and non-commissioned officers. He shared how his experience in the Special Forces shadows prepared him for the limelight of the SMA role.

And they talked about the future, including his vision for solving the recruiting challenge, how warfare is evolving from the kill chain to the kill web, how he’s planning to retain the right people, and how the integration of Special Operations and the regular Army is more important now than ever.

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction
2:53 The Army is busy
3:52 The Professional Warfighter
11:40 People are the Army’s weapons system
15:53 The relationship between Commanders and NCOs
22:24 SMA Weimer’s transition from the shadows
25:55 The Army’s recruiting challenges
34:51 CTCs and the Kill Web
40:12 Retaining the best and brightest
43:50 Integrating Special Forces and the regular Army
50:36 The Army’s biggest opportunity
52:17 Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“Those that are committed, I remind them; the audio and video has got to match.”
“All of the services are platform centric. The Army’s platform is its people.”
“The non-commissioned officer is the asymmetric advantage.”
“The things that are usually the hardest in life are the things that are usually the most rewarding.”
“Whatever you’ve done prior to coming into this seat is how you’ve prepared.”
“We’re on track to make our numbers this year….We need those numbers to be higher in upcoming years.”
“I have a fair amount of combat…I’ve never been to war.”
“You don’t necessarily get do-overs in the fight that we’re preparing for now.”
“It’s not just about retaining people; it’s about retaining the right people.”
“Standards and discipline can’t just be some whimsical thing we throw around.”

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with the Army’s most senior non-commissioned officer, then head over to our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform to catch up on our entire national security series from Washington, DC and Fort Liberty, NC.

#142: Lethality, Audacity, Creativity - Leading the Special Forces Regiment - Major General Gil Ferguson, Commanding General, 1st Special Forces Command

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 10:35:53 GMT

Lethality, audacity and creativity. That’s the culture of the Special Forces Regiment and the values each Special Operator is expected to live by. They’re also the foundation of what it takes to be the premier partnered irregular warfare force in the arsenal of the United States Military.

Our nation’s Green Berets, Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations soldiers are led by Major General Gil Ferguson; the Commanding General of 1st Special Forces Command. For the final interview of our Fort Liberty series, Fran Racioppi sat down with General Ferguson for a conversation on what it takes to man, train and equip our Special Forces units.

They dug into his goal to enhance the culture of the Regiment, how the Special Forces Groups are preparing for regional conflicts with unknown enemies, at unknown times; and just how Green Berets are solidifying themselves as the go-to option in the deep sensor fight against our peer adversaries.

General Ferguson also explains the SOF-Space-Cyber Triad, where he sees Special Forces in a decade, and as our units evolve, what needs to stay the same.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with America’s top Green Beret, then head over to our YouTube channel to watch General Ferguson share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the JFK Special Warfare Museum
4:04 The premier partnered irregular warfare force
7:18 Man, train, equip for any theater
9:40 The culture of 1st SFC
13:52 The misperceptions of Special Forces
18:50 SOF in the Peer-to-Peer Fight
27:16 How is SOF keeping people first?
34:07 SOF, Space Cyber Triad
39:43 Where are Special Forces in 5-10 years?
42:14 How are Civil Affairs and PsyOps integrating into the SOF battlefield?
50:47 What has to stay the same in SOF?
54:32 Daily Foundations For Success

Quotes:

“The United States fights coalition warfare. We don’t ever want to fight by ourselves.”
“We don’t know where the next fight’s going to be, we don’t know who it’s gonna be with, and we don’t know when it’s gonna start.”
“The guys we are running the Columbian military were all folks that were captains with me when I was a 7th Group Commander.”
“Technology is not going to win the next fight. The side that most effectively and audaciously employs technology is going to win.”
“18x make up more than 50% of our force now; and that is a good thing.”
“I don’t want to spend time in my office. That is not where I’m effective.”

#141: Don't Show Up For The Minimum - USAJFKSWCS Command Chief Warrant CW5 Gary Ostrander

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Special Forces Warrant Officers are subject matter experts in unconventional warfare, operations and intelligence fusion, and planning and execution. They also advise commanders on all aspects of special operations and are responsible for the integration of emerging technologies.

To explore the unique role of the Special Forces Warrant Officer, Fran Racioppi asked the Command Chief Warrant Officer of the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School Chief Warrant Officer 5 Gary Ostrander to join him from the Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty, NC.

With over 30 years in the Army, Gary advises the commander and sergeant major of SWCS on best practices for training and developing our US Army Special Operations soldiers.

After they defined what it takes to succeed as a Special Forces Warrant, they explained SWCS 2030, the importance of duration in assessment and selection, how technology is being integrated into training, how to create a training program that prepares people for anything and innovation in recruiting initiatives.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation with one of Special Forces most experienced leaders then head over to our YouTube channel to watch CW5 Ostrander share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction
3:01 What’s the role of the Special Forces Warrant Officer?
11:51 What is SWCS 2030?
17:11 What technology is paramount on the next battlefield?
19:04 The evolution of the peer-to-peer fight
23:56 What are the innovative ways ARSOF is recruiting?
29:30 What are you most excited about in the next generation?
31:18 Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“The warrant specifically focuses on those long term planning operations and actions.”
“We focus on that end product. How do we produce the best product?”
“More than likely you will be seen by an unmanned system.”
“We’re the melting pot for the operational force’s #1 select cadre to come back and train and mentor the next generation.”
“How do they look at a problem set and become the world’s most adaptive problem solvers?”
“If you show up for the minimums there’s a very slim chance that you are going to be one of the ones selected.”

Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the entire team at the Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

C-47's, War In Europe, Immigration & The State Of Congress - FL Representative Mike Waltz (80th Anniversary of D-Day Series)

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:00:00 GMT

The 80th Anniversary of the D-Day invasion included many reenactment jumps, but none as visually captivating as the one in Mont St. Michel. A jump that featured multiple sorties of C-47s and some of America’s most important leaders donning the battle uniform of our airborne predecessors.

Included in this stick was Florida Congressman and fellow Green Beret Mike Waltz. After a quick exit and soft landing, Congressman Waltz spent some time with Fran Racioppi on the drop zone to talk D-Day, World Order and the current state of Congress.

With Mont-Saint Michel in the background, and jumpers still falling, they dug into our national security challenges in the Middle East, Ukraine and China; and how immigration policy is rapidly becoming the decisive issue. They also unpacked the need for professionalism in Congress, how polarization is affecting getting things done and what we can expect from our political leaders as we gear up for an election cycle that looks more like a night combat jump with high winds and a small drop zone.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation from one of the most surreal spots on the globe then head over to our YouTube channel to as we share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction
02:10 Jumping into Mont St. Michel
5:20 What is NATO’s role in global conflict?
9:35 Can America mobilize a whole of society approach?
12:34 Why is DOD calling for a reduction in Special Forces?
14:14 Why can’t we just close the border?
17:01 What can we expect during the upcoming election cycle?

Quotes:

“Vintage birds. Vintage uniforms. But the parachutes are new Mr. Speaker.” (2:53)
“We can’t keep asking the American taxpayer to dig deeper and deeper into their pocket while the European taxpayer isn’t being asked to do the same thing.” (7:09)
“We should be flooding the world with cleaner, cheaper American oil and gas.” (8:00)
“What I want is that every time Chairman Xi gets out of bed and looks across the Taiwan Strait he says ‘ah…they're still too tough, we’re not ready.’" (10:56)
“The more the Chinese Communist Party are looking over their shoulder, the less they’re looking across the Pacific.” (12:25)
“Those support men and women for the Special Operations community keep us out of wars. Those are the left of bang.” (13:55)
“The cartels are behind all of this…We know from Plan Colombia how to take down cartels.” (16:04)
"The world is a calm place when America is strong.” (18:35)

#140: You Better Be More Than A Good Dude - Medal of Honor Recipient CSM Matt Williams & LTC Dave Lucas, Special Forces Qualification Course MOS Phase

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Stress is the great equalizer in leadership. When you're cold, you're wet, you're tired, your company’s losing money, you have no revenue, you’re pinned down by enemy fire, or you're down by five with two minutes left, great organizations need leaders who stand up, take charge, make decisions and act. America’s Green Berets are the best in the world at leading under stress.

To unpack just how we’re selecting the next generation of Special Forces Operators, Fran Racioppi sat down with the team responsible for training them; LTC Dave Lucas and Medal of Honor Recipient Command Sergeant Major Matt Williams; the command team for 4th battalion, 1st Special Warfare Training Group, otherwise known as the MOS phase of the Qualification Course.

From the JFK Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty’s John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School they cover the Q-course; what it takes to be a successful Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Echo; how they’re upholding the standard and preparing the force for the peer-to-peer battlefield and the difference between motivation and leadership.

Plus CSM Williams shares his account of the Battle of Shok Valley and why sometimes the greatest displays of leadership have nothing to do with rank, position, or tenure.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation then head over to our YouTube channel to watch this episode and watch CSM Williams & LTC Lucas share the lineage of America’s first Special Forces in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

Highlights:

0:00 Introduction
5:35 Succeeding in the Special Forces Qualification Course
10:10 Scenario-based training to a standard
15:30 Preparing Special Forces for the next battlefield
22:15 Motivation isn't leadership
28:57 CSM Williams Medal of Honor battle in Afghanistan
413:40 Daily Keys to Success

Quotes:

“Our job is to teach them the fundamental skills that they will utilize, that they will bring to their operational detachments.” (6:43)
“When it’s cold, it’s wet and it sucks, we want guys that understand why they're here.” (7:56)
“What we really try to do is eek out your capabilities under stress.” (11:48)
“The standard is the standard, is the standard, is the standard.” (13:46)
“We’re sending guys out to the force to do some of the hardest things in the world, and they can’t just be because you're a good dude.” (15:13)
“Motivation and leadership are not the same thing.” (23:42)
“It’s two junior bravos on the side of a cliff figuring out what we’re going to do.” (36:55)

Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the entire team at the Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

#139: SWCS 2030 – Special Warfare Training For The Peer-To-Peer Fight – BG Will Beaurpere & CSM Lee Strong

Thu, 23 May 2024 13:25:23 GMT

One hundred men will test today. But only three win the Green Beret. Developing America’s Green Berets takes a vision for the future, knowledge of the past, and an understanding of the present.

The John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School is the home of both training Green Berets and developing the policy and doctrine our Special Forces operate by. To share the mission of SWCS, Fran Racioppi sat down with Commanding General Brigadier General Will Beaurpere and Command Sergeant Major Lee Strong from the JFK Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty, NC.

BG Beaurpere and CSM Strong explained how SWCS 2030 will develop a more prepared Special Forces Regiment through the establishment of three Branch Schools for Green Berets, Civil Affairs and Psyops, each under their own O-6 level command.

They also break down irregular warfare, why it’s important, and how it’s complemented by psychological operations; another school being developed through SWCS 2030.

Finally they talk recruiting as the GWOT generation of soldiers is retiring and SOF was directed to cut personnel, while enforcing the standard, continuously improving professionalism, and integrating technology and automation into the force.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation about the past, present and future of SWCS. Then head over to our YouTube channel to watch BG Beaurpere and CSM Strong share the importance of the Jedburghs in the Jedburgh Media Channel’s first documentary, Unknown Heroes, Behind Enemy Lines at D-Day, the story of Operation Jedburgh.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Special Warfare Museum
2:27 The SWCS mission
8:42 SWCS 2030
12:03 Commandants, Irregular Warfare & the Psywar School
22:00 SOF’s role in Strategic Disruption
30:33 How do you maintain the Special Forces Standard?
36:08 Integrating technology but building leaders first
49:08 The 3 Keys to Daily Success

Quotes:

“We watch the battlefield of the modern era and we draw that into our doctrine.” (5:02)
“The cadre is where you really achieve mastery.” (8:04)
“Psychological Warfare is something we’ve conducted for the preponderance of our history as a military.” 17:01
“That’s what SOF does…conduct operations and activities forward, before conflict.” (20:06)
“The one place we will not assume risk, and cannot assume is risk, is in the production of world class special forces, civil affairs and psyops soldiers.” (28:37)
“What is the one or two percent we can do to improve to ultimately make this better, myself better, the team better.” (34:45)
“You're only as hard as your last hard thing.” (53:04)

Special thanks to Roxanne Merritt and the JFK Special Warfare Museum for graciously hosting this series.

#138: Un-mythed! No Loyalty Between Veterans - Alpha Elite Performance Founder Travis Wilson (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

Fri, 03 May 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Social Media doesn’t tell the real story. It might look like we’re crushing it online, but the reality is that it’s held together by toothpicks and dental floss. For the final episode of the 2023 Army Navy Game Tailgate Series, Fran Racioppi welcomed back Travis Wilson; fellow Green Beret, entrepreneur, and Green Beret Foundation’s Director of Mission & Program Delivery.

Travis and Fran debunk the myth behind Green Beret to Green Beret support; and why supporting each other’s businesses, families and initiatives is an important part of post-military success. As Green Berets we would have given our lives for the guy next to us; but when we get out, we forget that our brothers need the same level of support in the next chapter.

In a Jedburgh Podcast first, Travis flips the script and asks Fran how he’s doing. Plus they catch up on the newest products from Alpha Elite Performance and how the AEP Outdoors is taking Veterans fishing in Mexico and heli-hunting across the world.

Veterans know better than anyone the challenges other Veterans face in service and beyond; yet they’re often the last to volunteer support physically or financially to Veteran Service Organizations. We need Veterans to match civilian levels of support.

Take a listen, watch, or read our conversation. Then grab a pre-workout, some GBNT Sleep and Rally and Recover.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy Game Tailgate
4:47 The most support comes from those who didn’t serve
7:24 Green Berets need to support other Green Berets
10:46 Extreme outdoors with AEP Outdoors
11:50 Alpha Elite Performance drops Rally & Recovery
13:45 Army by 7
15:18 How’s Fran doing?

Quotes:

“Our biggest support has come from people who didn’t serve.” (5:52)
“The true impact for guys like you and I is it creates an environment for us to get together.” (6:37)
“It’s very healing to get back together with other Green Berets and their families.” (7:47)
“These guys are hurting and struggling because they’re not getting the support of the brotherhood.” (9:50)
“The only person that ever failed is the one that quit. So don’t quit.” (17:29)
“I don’t look at anything and say I can’t do it. I look at everything and I say how do I make it happen.” (17:53)

#137: Screwdrivers Can't Change Tires - Home Base CEO BG(R) Jack Hammond (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:48:00 GMT

America’s military must return our service members back to society ready to lead. Special operators are given the best tools in the military to do their jobs. They’re also completely immersed into the special forces lifestyle with almost no distractions. Yet when they leave service, they’re often left to themselves to find the right tools and to figure out what training they need to be successful in the next chapter.

Two of America’s most important organizations have partnered to bring our Veterans the best tools and training all wrapped up into an immersive, life changing program.

For the third episode of our 2023 Army Navy Game tailgate series Fran Racioppi sat down with retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond, CEO of Home Base. Home Base is founded and supported by the Boston Red Sox and Mass General Hospital; a formidable team dedicated to winning and solving the most complex challenges in medicine and athletic performance.

Home Base provides leading edge clinical care to the medical challenges faced by our veterans; including the effects of prolonged blast exposure, mental trauma, diabetes and even cancer. Veterans train directly with the best medical and athletic performance professionals in the industry with one goal in mind; return our military personnel back to society ready to perform at the highest level and continue to lead others.

Take a listen, watch or read our conversation…and whether you’re from Beantown or not, this is a Red Sox game you want to be a part of.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy Game Tailgate
3:50 Home Base is built by the Boston Red Sox & Mass General
7:06 Two months of therapy in two weeks
11:18 How Home Base is treating Operator Syndrome
16:38 How to support Home Base
17:50 Proven results of the program

Quotes:

“When you look at the opportunity with those two powerhouse organizations and what the potential is to actually bend the curve and make a difference; they had me at hello.” (5:30)
“We have access to the best clinical resources in the world. Bar none.” (6:12)
“We created this 14-day intensive clinical program…that compresses two years of therapy into two weeks.” (8:55)
“We’re gonna be able to figure out what are the downstream chronic illnesses associated with concussive injury.” (13:49)
“If you don’t have the tools to do a job, it’s like a monkey trying to change a tire with a screwdriver.” (19:50)

#136: The Mission, the Men, Me - Life After the Green Beret - Cold Zero Spirits Founder Casey Maxted & Secret Service Agent Bill "Hawk" Albracht (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 12:06:00 GMT

“The mission. The men. Me.” The “3 M’s” of leadership taught to officers in Vietnam and still applicable to building great leaders in any industry. As leaders we put people first, but sometimes the mission must happen regardless of the people.

For the second episode of our 2023 Army Navy Game tailgate party, we warmed up with a little Cold Zero Whiskey and a conversation with two former Green Berets of very different generations who left service for federal law enforcement.

Casey Maxted and Bill “Hawk” Albracht joined Fran Racioppi to share why grit and teamwork were critical to their careers in Special Forces, in the FBI and Secret Service, and now as they build a spirits company.

Grab a glass of Cold Zero then take a listen, watch or read our conversation as Casey breaks down the opportunities and challenges that come with starting a spirits brand, and Bill shares what it was like to go back to Vietnam and walk the battlefield he once fought on.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Army Navy tailgate
3:48 Hawk volunteers for Vietnam
4:32 Casey volunteers after 9/11
5:27 Hawk protected four Presidents in the Secret Service
7:56 Casey joins the FBI
8:48 The character traits needed to build elite teams after Special Forces
12:21 Founding Cold Zero
14:09 Biggest challenge of starting a spirits company
16:27 How Warrior Rising is supporting Veteran entrepreneurs
17:46 The Greatest Generations Foundation takes Veterans back to their battlefields

Quotes:

“I want to join the Army. I want to be a paratrooper. I want to go Infantry. And I want to go to Vietnam.” (4:09)
“Air Force One flew right over me and I don’t know what happened, but that moment is when I was like ‘I’m gonna serve’.” (5:04)
“The protection of Jimmy Carter, or Ronald Reagan, or George Bush, it never varied…time seems to by quicker when you’re with somebody that you admire.” (7:40)
“You look for grit in almost everything that you do. People that are gonna stick with it when the cards are stacked against you.” (9:06)
“There’s the three M’s of leadership: the mission, the men and me.” (10:18)
“If we truly understand our mission….in those moments when we’re under pressure, when there’s chaos, when there’s confusion, we can come back to that guiding fabric.” (11:40)
“It’s not about the individual. It is about the team. The team going forward. The team accomplishing the mission.” (12:15)

#135: A Green Beret's Hardest Mission - Green Beret Foundation CEO Charlie Iacono & Green Beret Nick Lavery (2023 Army Navy Game Series)

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 09:38:45 GMT

There’s a dangerous difference between a Quiet Professional and Silent Professional. We’re conditioned as Green Berets to put the mission first and get the job done. That’s why Army Special Forces are the tip of the spear in both wartime and peace.

For our first tailgate interview, and to kick off The Jedburgh Podcast’s new home as an official program of the Green Beret Foundation, Fran Racioppi sat down with CEO Charlie Iacono and America’s largest Green Beret Nick Lavery.

Charlie shares his vision to enhance educational opportunities, make benefits the easiest part of transition and how he’s preparing the organization for America’s next battlefield. Nick explains how he’s committed to keeping Green Berets first in the fight and why telling our stories is critical to both retention and recruiting the next generation.

Americans in combat may be out of the spotlight, but Green Berets continue their mission in every corner of the world and supporting them and their families will always be the core mission of the Green Beret Foundation.

You decide if we’re in a 1939 moment and never forget… the Boston Tea Party was an Army operation…

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Tailgating from Gillette Stadium
3:27 The Boston Tea Party was an Army operation; NOT Navy!
5:37 Charlie’s vision as CEO of Green Beret Foundation
9:25 Why demand for Green Beret support is greater now than during the War on Terror
12:13 GBF advocates are in every active duty Special Forces Group
17:45 The dangerous difference between Quiet Professional & Silent Professional
27:17 Are we living in a 1939 moment?
30:44 A cameo from US Army Special Operations Command Commanding General LTG Jonathan Braga

Quotes:

“This is where it all started. A couple of guys in a bar with some ideas…and look where we are today.” (4:17)
“We are one of the few organizations that service and support the Veteran community of the Regiment and also the active duty space.” (7:12)
“It’s a commitment I made since day one. When that phone rings we’re gonna pick it up.” (8:55)
“The Special Forces ODA has been the most requested SOF unit of action since the beginning of the Global War on Terrorism.” (9:48)
“Just because it’s not as obvious, do not mistake that for the need to no longer exist.” (11:20)
“Why does it seem like the hardest mission a Green Beret has to deal with is when he gets out he’s trying to get his benefits.” (13:529)
“My biggest challenge that I ever faced was not becoming a Green Beret…it was actually not being a Green Beret anymore.” (15:13)
“There’s a massive difference between being a quiet professional and being a silent professional.” (18:45)

The Jedburgh Podcast and the Jedburgh Media Channel are an official program of The Green Beret Foundation.

#134: Yoga, NYC Body Shaming & Taking Your Own Leg – Combat Wounded Amputees Dan Nevins & Elana Duffy (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Could you make the decision to remove your own leg. What if you’d already lost the other and taking the second meant starting over? For the final episode of the 2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade, Fran Racioppi and Psychotherapist Drew Newkirk were joined by Dan Nevins and Lana Duffy; two Army soldiers who were faced with one of life’s toughest decisions.

Dan nearly lost his life in an IED explosion in Iraq, now after losing his legs, he shares how Yoga and Wounded Warrior Project saved him from depression, substance abuse and suicide. Lana suffered for years with an undiagnosed brain injury that prevented her physical recovery; today she’s the parades honorary Grand Marshal explaining how to navigate NYC’s culture of beauty and perfection with a body that doesn’t look like everyone else.

Life is full of difficult decisions and most often the toughest decisions are thrust upon us. Are you ready to take action and do something when most are unwilling?

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to “Alive Day”
6:53 Dan gets pinned in his vehicle after an IED explosion
21:49 Battling depression, substance abuse and motivation
28:15 How yoga without his legs saved Dan
32:40 The effect of body shame and limiting disabilities after Lana’s IED blast
42:26 Dating in NYC with one leg
57:54 Dan and Lana tell their stories to help others

Quotes:

“The greatest casualty is being forgotten.” (2:35)
“When the explosion happened I could feel and hear the truck basically disintegrate around my body.” (12:48)
“I knew I was going to die. I was making my peace with God. I was just giving up.” (15:19)
“They met me with a backpack and a promise that whatever I needed, whatever my family needed, they’d be there.” (20:54)
“I self-medicated with accomplishment, achievement, doing something.” (23:54)
“Yoga teacher training was the best leadership school I’ve ever been to in my life.” (31:33)
“I was doing limb salvage not just because I wanted to keep my leg, it was ‘I can’t be seen as weak.’” (34:32)
“Keep doing good things because that’s how you’ll be remembered.” (53:43)

Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#133: America's National Will, Bias For Action & Friendless Men - MACV-SOG Green Beret Richard Rice & GORUCK Founder Jason McCarthy (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Great leaders exist in every industry. When we think about great leaders we often remember the things they did. But what’s more important is the impact they had on individuals, teams, organizations and society.

For the second episode of our 2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series, Fran Racioppi and Psychotherapist Drew Newkirk welcomed two Green Berets from very different wars creating impact across generations.

CSM Richard Rice served as a Green Beret in MACV-SOG in Vietnam and later became one of the founding members of Delta Force. Jason McCarthy served in 10th Special Forces during the Iraq war and went on to found GORUCK.

Today they’re swapping roles as mentor and mentee as they apply their lessons from Special Forces to entrepreneurism, fitness, mental health and building community. We show you how to build organizations on character, why we must embrace challenge, how to live a life of bias for action, and how society is shaped by America’s Veterans after their military service.

Drew also explores the difficulty elite performers have as they age and become friendless men; something scary to many of us.

America became the greatest country in the history of the world because of a national call to service since the Boston Massacre. Today, the world is more dangerous than ever. It’s time we bring America’s people back together, rebuild our community and keep America atop the world order.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcoming a legend of the Special Forces Regiment
8:34 Why need to do hard things; especially at GORUCK
10:59 Preventing “friendless men”
15:03 The character traits needed to succeed in elite organizations
16:38 The films that shaped Rich’s perspective on the military
18:00 Why America must maintain our national will in the face of our adversaries
24:14 Veteran service transcends their time in the military and carries into society
25:10 How mentorship builds great organizations
28:18 Making the case for military service

Quotes:

“Throughout my entire life I’ve always looked for the challenge. Something to test me.” (5:02)
“It isn’t so much the military service…it’s what those Veterans bring back and what they put into our society after they’ve served.” (5:30)
“There’s no other way to really know what someone else is made of unless you do something hard with them.” (10:17)
“Have a bias for action in the real world and go get after it.” (13:56)
“If you’re not honest with yourself, you can’t be honest with others.” (15:48)
“We are in a peer-to-peer battle with not one nation, but a number of nation states.” (20:46)
“America needs to come back together. You do that through communities.” (23:04)

Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#132: The Biggest Veterans Day Event In America - NYC Commissioners James Hendon & Zach Iscol, Grand Marshal LTG(R) Mike Linnington, UWVC Chairman Nick Angione (2023 NYC Veterans Day Parade Series)

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:37:00 GMT

Veterans Day is about more than honoring service; it’s about preparing leaders to serve in the military and beyond. For the 104th running of the New York City Veterans Day parade from atop the red carpet Host Fran Racioppi is joined by special guest co-host Drew Newkirk to navigate conversations through the motorcycles, the sirens, the marching bands and the floats.

They kick off the parade with two of New York City's most prominent veterans turned public servants; Commissioner James Hendon's a Reserve Army officer and leads New York City's Department of Veteran Services.

Commissioner Zach Iscol served as a Marine, went on to found the Headstrong Project and now serves all New Yorkers leading Emergency Management. The Commissioners show us how to continue our impact post military service while leading our communities.

We're also joined by Nick Angione and LTG(R) Mike Linnington. Nick's the chairman of United War Veterans Council, the organization charged with producing the parade and bringing 25,000 people to the heart of Manhattan.

General Linnington is the CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project and was honored as the 2023 parade Grand Marshal. Nick breaks down the details of planning and hosting the largest veterans event in the country. LTG Linnington talks about the value that veterans bring to any organization and how hiring veterans isn't a charity move, it's a business decision.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the 104th New York City Veterans Day Parade
5:32 Why America needs Veterans in public service after the military
7:27 There’s no panacea for Veterans mental health
11:00 The excitement of the parade
12:32 Honoring first responders at the parade
16:18 How United War Veterans Council produces the parade
23:50 Developing leaders in the military from the first day

Quotes:

“We look at all we have and how it’s borne on the backs of so few, it’s so critical for us to give these people their roses on days like today.” (4:01)
“The military…is an incredibly effective way to learn the basic tenets of leadership.” (6:47)
“There’s no panacea for mental health…you really have to use what works for the individual.” (7:53)
“There’s 16+ million Veterans across the country. I’m representing them.” (24:18)
“You can’t wait to be told what to do. You’ve got to understand your commander’s intent; your boss's intent. And then you’ve got to be able to act.” (26:03)
“Hiring a Veteran isn’t a charity endeavor, it’s a business endeavor. You want to improve your business; hire Veterans.” (28:23)

Brought to you in partnership with Just Ice Tea, Longtab Brewing & Talent War Group.

#131: NYC Welcomes Home Its Vietnam Vets - The Wall That Heals Comes to Queens - Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:37:00 GMT

America's Vietnam Veterans didn't come home to parades. They didn't come home to standing ovations. They didn't come home to a welcoming public that embraced what they did overseas. When many of our Vietnam veterans came home, they got spit on. They were told that their uniform was a disgrace, they weren't integrated into society, and many people shunned them.

58,281 of our Vietnam veterans never came home at all. Queens, NY bore more than its share of service and of loss. In September, Fran Racioppi had the chance to welcome home our Vietnam Veterans and all those who served from New York when the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund brought the Wall That Heals to New York City.

A 3/4 replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, the wall comes to those who can’t make it to DC. After the police escort, building the wall and the opening ceremony, Fran sat down under the lights with the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans Services James Hendon, Chairman of the New York City Council Veterans Committee Bob Holden, Vietnam Veterans Association National President John Rowan, and Tony Nunciato, one of New York City's bravest veteran families, having lost his brother and Aniello in Vietnam.

They talked about the struggles our Vietnam Veterans faced when they returned, how America's institutions weren't ready for so many who had seen so much, how many of them answered the call to lead in politics and set the foundation for small business and our economy, and what NYC is doing to support Veterans of every generation.

Freedom's never free. It wasn't in the past, it isn't now, and it won't be in the future. To all our Vietnam veterans, thank you and welcome home.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 The Wall That Heals comes to Flushing Meadows, Queens
5:55 Vietnam War by the numbers
8:18 Why Vietnam was a different war than the rest
13:16 The family cost of Vietnam
19:52 How New York supports Veterans
26:29 The biggest improvements in Veteran support since Vietnam
30:14 Continuing to serve for the next generation

Quotes:

“The median age of our Vietnam Veterans right now is 78. We wanted to bring this to folks before it was too late.” (2:18)
“We owe it to the men and women who gave their lives. To have this come to Queens is just a tremendous accomplishment.” (4:37)
“246 is the number of the most casualties in one single day in the Vietnam War.” (8:10)
“We were the flower children. We were the pot kids. Our fathers were the crew cut guys who drank.” (11:08)
“He gave his life, he gave everything, to serve our country. To see his name, to see it memorialized…gives me great homage.” (19:04)
“Many of our Veterans don’t self identify. You see me, there’s three other folks who served who you don't see.” (21:24)

#130: Health, Safety, Intelligence & the Role of the Chief Security Officer - International SOS Sally Llewellyn, Kelly Johnstone & Dr. Mark Fischer

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:29:00 GMT

The security challenges we face today are more complex, less predictable and faster evolving than at any point in recent history. When Fran Racioppi isn’t hosting the Jedburgh Podcast he runs FRsix, his security company. From this year’s industry trade show, Global Security Exchange, Fran sat down with International SOS, the global leader in health and security services, to dig deep on today's biggest threats. International SOS cares for over 9000 organizations in 1000 locations across 90 countries. They field over 11,000 calls for assistance each day.

Sally Llewellyn is the global security Director of information and Analysis. Kelly Johnstone served as the Chief Security Officer at Coca Cola. Dr. Mark Fischer is the Regional Medical Director for the Americas. They explain why intelligence is so important in the decision making process for executives of any organization.

They define Duty of Care and how it's evolved as we've transitioned from workplace to remote work. They also explain the importance of developing networks of influence, whether that be for intelligence to understand what's happening, or medical support to help people in their time of need. Finally, they break down the roles of the Chief Security officer and analysts and how the information they provide to decision makers is critical for the resiliency of an organization.

The world is evolving faster than ever seems to change on a minute-by-minute basis. Our job as leaders is to understand what's happening out there, how it affects our people and our business, and then make decisions and bring in the resources that keep us successful, no matter the challenge.

Protection of our people starts with us as leaders. Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the International SOS Booth as GSX
3:37 Kelly’s lessons from NCIS, to Customs to leading Coca-Cola
4:03 Sally explains why intelligence is the first step to decision-making
10:22 The evolution of “Duty of Care”
17:18 How preparation transitions organizations from react to response
21:25 Mark shares how to respond to medical crisis in the most austere parts of the world
26:52 The influence of the chief security in executive risk management
32:10 The biggest threats to the world today

Quotes:

“The threats we’re looking at today…are just so much more difficult to predict.” (5:34)
“What’s going on in the world? What might happen next? To try and inform really good decision-making.” (7:41)
“Mitigating risk doesn’t eliminate risk. Where there’s a medical case there’s often security. (9:13)
“If you’re on a conference call in your car now, do I have a duty of care if you get in a car wreck?” (12:00)
“Intelligence doesn’t just serve you from a security perspective…it’s a business enabler.” (28:30)
“Our job there is to ensure that the environment is conducive for the business to meet business objectives.” (29:00)
“You are the problem solver, so you get the call on everything.” (30:13)

#129: Why Special Operators Succeed In Finance - 51 Vets Executive Director Lindsey Schiro, Board Member Chris Robinson, Member Victor Reyna

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:00:00 GMT

The biggest challenge America’s Special Operations Veterans face is not becoming a Special Operator. Their biggest challenge is no longer being a Special Operator. This transition, despite its challenges, is also a Veteran’s biggest opportunity.

Data says that 48% of Veterans believe transition was more difficult than they expected, 62% say transition took more time than expected, and 76% say it was stressful. So, how do we create opportunity from challenge?

For this episode Fran Racioppi sat down with 51 Vets, a non-profit committed to connecting veterans from elite military units with leading business professionals in the finance industry. From the American Legion in the iconic New York City Athletic Club, Fran is joined by Executive Director Lindsey Schiro, Board Member Chris Robinson, and Member Victor Reyna to break down 51 Vets pillars of support, how 51 Vet’s is using their City Summits to create opportunities for SOF Veterans to work at financial institutions, and explain why companies who live by the mantra “hire for character, train for skill” are scaling their businesses on the backs of our Special Operators.

Transition is hard, but the first step is defining the difference between what you want to do vs what you can do.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the American Legion and the 51 Vets City Summit
2:30 The biggest challenge of military transition
5:35 Top events that negatively affect Veteran transition
7:44 Chris, Victor and Lindsey transition for business and family
12:22 Implementing the DOD Skillbridge Program
14:00 Why character is the most important component of building a great organization
20:18 Hire for character, train for skill; but don’t overestimate!
35:22 Why doing what you want to do is the sometimes the hardest thing you can do
38:32 Lack of job satisfaction contributes to the Veteran suicide rate
44:46 51 Vets Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“The biggest challenge facing military Veterans is correlating their military service to civilian service.” (3:12)
“America's great because of the military that we have and we have a great military because of capitalism.” (6:32)
“We can have all the resources in the world. If our people suck, our organization’s gonna suck.” (14:17)
“In the Special Operations world the best thing you can be called is a good dude.” (16:35)
“Make sure you can learn, earn and collect a merit badge along the way.” (24:51)
“Get surgical on what you want to do.”
“Proximity to the problem. Proximity to the decision-makers. That’s how we make influence. That’s how we get things done.” (38:19)
“We’re saving lives here. We are creating a sense of community. A sense of purpose.” (41:00)

Taking The Podium: Jumping In with CrossFit Games Masters Bronze Medalist Jenn Ryan

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 10:13:00 GMT

A lot can happen in one CrossFit season. Hosts Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff went from CrossFit rookies to Level 1 Trainer Certificate holders and CrossFit Games media. Jenn Ryan went from withdrawing at Wodapalooza to the CrossFit Games podium standing tall as the Women’s Masters Bronze Medalist.

For the final episode of the 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games and the 2023 CrossFit season Fran, Jessie and Jenn take it full circle as they close out the games from the back of the US Army Fitness Truck.

Jenn explains how she battled through early season shoulder injury which found her on the sidelines during our Episode 97 Wodapalooza discussion. Jenn shares exactly how she listened to her body, how she chose her physical therapists and how the burning desire to compete kept her coming back each day to train.

She also talks longevity, adapting to change, recovery and the off season preparation required to get back to the competition floor in January. Jenn’s bronze medal finish shows us just how important our attitude and focus are in remaining resilient over time.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games Masters Podium
2:21 Starting the season by withdrawing from Wodapalooza
5:10 How to listen to your body and search for right physical therapist
9:35 The competitiveness of CrossFit equals all other professional sports
13:41 How the masters division is changing lives
17:39 The best parts of competing at the games
21:40 Preparing for 2024

Quotes:

“I’m a strong believer that movement is still medicine.” (5:30)
“It’s definitely a little extra work to find someone exceptional but the difference in results that you get is so huge.” (9:22)
“Elite level sport you may see some wear and tear but the fact that these athletes are still coming back and taking the podium is crazy.” (13:12)
“You’re not starting too late in the game because there’s no timeline.” (14:55)
“There’s nothing like bars at a competition.” (19:12)
“If you don’t try to put too much into planning you can adapt and adjust to change a little more easily or readily.” (23:10)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions

#128: Default Aggressive, Humility vs Confidence, and a Little Jocko Fuel - Retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink (CrossFit Games 2023)

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 10:42:08 GMT

Default Aggressive: a leader’s mindset to take deliberate and decisive action. As leaders we face challenges both known and unknown, with real consequences from our action or our inaction. We won’t always get it perfectly right, but doing nothing is almost always wrong.

It’s the final day from the US Army Fitness Truck at the 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games where Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff are joined by Jocko Willink, Founder of Jocko Fuel, bestselling author, leadership coach, podcast host and retired Navy SEAL.

In this conversation, Jocko shows us the power of taking action aggressively and intentionally, and how the greatest leaders have a bias for action while balancing humility with confidence and a little bit of cockiness when they step into the arena of execution. He also shares the vision behind Jocko Fuel, the hole he saw in the energy drink market and how combining the same caffeine as a cup of coffee with fermented sugar cane is providing the right amount of energy without the crash; and it tastes great.

In our drive to be all we can be, doing hard things individually and as teams, combined with a decision-making attitude, humility and some Jocko Fuel is the recipe to make an impact.

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games
1:36 Jocko starts a CrossFit affiliate
3:13 What’s missing in the energy drink market
4:45 We need leaders who are willing to do hard things
7:15 How Jocko assesses his team
9:22 Default Aggressive vs bias for action
12:48 Jocko’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“People that do CrossFit want to get stronger, smarter, faster and better. That’s what Jocko Fuel is for.” (3:10)
“I liked the immediate feeling I would get from energy drinks before, but I would crash and feel like crap afterwards. (4:36)
“If you want to be a better human being…you want to be mentally and physically stronger…you’ve got to put yourself under stressful situations.” (6:05)
“When you want to unify a team, or build a team, it’s very helpful if you as a team get to do hard things together.” (6:15)
“When you step into the arena…you got to get a little cocky.” (8:08)
“You’ve got to make your default mode aggressive. You’re gonna go take action and solve these problems.” (11:12)

Jocko’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Know what you’re going to do tomorrow
Aggressively do it
Assess what you did

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions

#127: Handstands, Extra Work & Saying Yes to Challenge - Power Monkey Fitness Co-Owner Dave Durante (CrossFit Games 2023)

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:52:00 GMT

No one cares about achieving your goals more than you; and no one can do the work for you to get there. You have to own that. It doesn’t matter what industry or what dream you wake up with every morning, you better be the first one in and the last to leave if you want to earn victory.

Power Monkey Fitness Co-Owner and Former USA Gymnastics Team Member Dave Durante believes the key the podium starts with work ethic and saying yes to challenge. Dave joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff from the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games for a conversation on his rise through the gymnastics world, battling to make the US Olympic Team and transitioning from elite athlete to coach and business owner. Dave's philosophy on progress is grounded in progressions; the ability to push forward but take it back to the basics to reinforce our foundations then get back after it.

Dave takes us behind the scenes of US Gymnastics, sharing his personal journey of wins, losses and becoming the ultimate teammate on his bid to compete in the 2008 Olympics.

Dave also shares the impact of Power Monkey Fitness, where he touches on the struggles of athletes figuring out the next step in their career and how CrossFit opened an opportunity for him to bring gymnastics to everyone. From elite athlete to elite entrepreneur, Dave’s perspective on what it takes to win inside and outside the gym will transform your Monday mindset!

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games
2:27 Walking into a gymnastics gym
4:43 Valuing the team over individual performance
8:40 The podium is earned outside of the coach’s workout
13:00 Making the US Olympic Team
20:18 Pushing the idea of failure and saying yes to the challenges
26:03 Using progressions to overcome the twisties, fears and mental blocks
30:58 Transitioning from elite athlete to coaching
44:00 Working together at Power Monkey Fitness Camps
52:43 Moving from camps to equipment and an app
57:02 Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

“My work ethic was something I leaned into.” (8:00)
“Whatever the minimum standard was was not going to allow me to reach my maximum human potential.” (9:22)
“I’m someone who says ‘yes’ to those challenges. I can still achieve even though things are not optimal.” (24:09)
“Who am I without being an athlete.” (32:55)
“Mondays are my favorite day. I despise the idea of retiring.” (39:47)
“When I go to bed right now, nobody cares about it more than I do…and I have to own that.” (42:06)

Dave’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Spend time with my kids
Work out to clear the mind
Check in with my team

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#126: From a Coma to CrossFit Games - Masters Finalist Spencer Whiteley (CrossFit Games 2023)

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:08:41 GMT

The mortar landed at his feet, shredding his leg and torso. Despite immediate medical care, he died twice on the helicopter during medical evacuation. He spent a week in a coma. He was told he would never walk again. This was 12 years ago in Basra, Iraq. In August, he competed in his second CrossFit Games finals.

Meet Spencer Whiteley, the British Army Veteran who walked into a CrossFit gym on cane over a decade ago with no plan except to find a way to walk . Spencer joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff from the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games just after his competition ended to share his story of combat, loss, resilience, perseverance and grit.

Performing at our best often requires perspective and the ability to stack small wins day in and day out towards our goal. Spencer shows us how our approach to training and life is based on seizing opportunities, overcoming physical and mental limitations, and balancing our training mindset with ripping our shirt off and competing to win in some small way each day.

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games Masters Competition
3:23 Spencer dies twice in Iraq after a mortar attack
7:26 Don’t waste the opportunity to live
9:42 Walking into a CrossFit gym with a cane and accepting the layer principle
15:38 The difference between training and competition
21:28 Balancing loading vs deloading period through a season
25:55 Chasing wins every day
32:00 Spencer’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“We came under attack and a mortar landed at my feet. Literally at my feet.” (4:45)
“I felt really determined to do something with my life.” (9:12)
“I didn’t have this plan ’I’ll try and go to the CrossFit Games.’ I didn’t even know what it was.” (9:42)
“It’s all a layer principle. It just happens over a long period of time of just persistence.” (12:23)
“If you start racing or lifting too much beyond your ability, you're on a quick ride to injury.” (19:07)
“Once a week, oh I’m feeling tasty on a Friday, rip your shirt off and go for it.” (20:51)
“You’re always chasing something.” (25:55)
“I believe you should never leave the gym without a win.” (26:49)
“The psychological aspect of it is the difference between winners and losers.” (28:07)

Spencer’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Plan meals for proper fueling
Have a defined routine
Plan your day

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#125: Producing CrossFit Games and Lessons From a Student Athlete - Sr. Director of Sport Operations Heather Lawrence

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Six days. Hundreds of events. Thousands of volunteers. One mission. Crown the Fittest on Earth. CrossFit Games is a production like none other in fitness, requiring a coordinated effort down to the minute and leadership with an unwavering commitment to winning.

CrossFit’s Sport Operations team is charged with making the games happen. They’re also responsible for programming the individual workouts we see in the games, across boxes and on the daily website. Heather Lawrence, CrossFit’s Sr. Director of Sport Operations, joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff from the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games just after the community 5k to break down just how the games are planned, produced, and executed; and how programming workouts is the key to success in CrossFit as an athlete and a coach.

Heather began her athletic career as an Olympic-level diver building an elite career in sport business post competition. She is the author of 20 Secrets for NCAA Student-Athletes & the Event Management Blueprint, as well as a professor of sports administration at Ohio University. As three former collegiate athletes, Heather, Jessie and Fran go deep on what we learn about life from college sports, setting the example for others to follow, and how character is built in micro moments of discipline.

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games and the global 5k
4:03 How CrossFit develops coaches with feedback
7:05 Breaking down the definition of CrossFit
10:20 How CrossFit is programmed each day
14:42 Producing the CrossFit Games?
21:15 Heather’s transition from student athlete to sport business
25:54 What we learn from being a student athlete
29:50 Setting the example through micro-moments
35:50 The future of CrossFit

Quotes:

“They are constantly receiving that feedback and giving feedback. It’s not personal.” (5:28)
“It is training those core movement patterns that you replicate out in real life.” (8:10)
“The majority of your days in the gym are going to be a little bit uncomfortable.” (9:43)
“There are other things that you’re learning through sport that are so much more important than an eventual paycheck or an eventual gold medal.” (23:46)
“One thing I do see with student athletes is a much better ability when the going gets hard.” (27:40)
“Everything that you are doing, you’re a leader in the gym.” (32:56)

Heather’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Appreciating the people around me
Taking responsibility when things don’t well
Consistently ask for input

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#124: The Anti-supplement Supplement Company - Momentous CEO Jeff Byers (CrossFit Games 2023)

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:44:00 GMT

How much do you really know about the supplements you put in your body? Where do they come from? What do they actually do? What are they supposed to do? How much time have you spent understanding what will really enhance your performance?

Jeff Byers spent a career in the NFL with access to the best performance coaching and products in the world; but something was missing from the market. A company that blended science with education and embraced the consumer’s perspective on their own needs. Born was Momentous; the anti-supplement, supplement company.

Jeff joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff from the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games to share his vision for democratizing high performance by developing great products and treating consumers as partners in their own development. Jessie and Jeff show us the benefits of creatine, omega-3s, protein, BCAAs, carbs, fats and collagen in our daily routines while standing firm in the opinion that we should never take anything we can’t fully explain.

Momentous has won 10 research grants from the Department of Defense and supplies over 200 professional and collegiate athletics teams. Fran and Jeff explain why human performance is the core of our national defense and why humans are our most important weapon system on the battlefield. Plus Jeff shares his keys to elite performance; attitude, effort and bone crushing consistency.

Learn more about Momentous and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games and Momentous
3:50 Democratizing high performance with access to the best products
9:33 If you don’t know why you take it, don’t take it
12:30 Balancing Creatine, Omega-3, BCAA’s, Whey Protein, EAA’s
23:45 The result of protein, fat, carbs and collagen on the body
30:15 Humans as a weapon system, longevity and lobbying Congress
38:44 Attitude and Effort: from elite athlete to business owner
44:04 Partnering with CrossFit Games and the GORUCK Trainers

Quotes:

“Our vision is to democratize high performance.” (6:56)
“What we hope to become is the anti-supplement supplement company.” (8:26)
“If you don’t know why you take it you shouldn’t be taking it.” (10:03)
“The consumer doesn’t need it simple, they just need people to tell them what it is in a thoughtful way.” (11:09)
“Bone-crushing consistency creates results.” (28:29)
“Longevity doesn’t happen at the point of injury. Longevity happens at the point of entry into service.” (32:18)
“There’s always someone throwing garbage, trying to blow you up. You just have to keep fighting.” (39:57)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#123: Aerobic Capacity and the Lactic Acid Death Zone - Endurance Coach Chris Hinshaw (CrossFit Games 2023)

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 10:58:00 GMT

Are you ready to take it to the limit to win? Do you even truly know where the limit is? Have you been there, tested it, and fought through the pain, only to make sure you could go there again. But the next time you’ll have the confidence to go there and even further? Our limit isn’t a sustainable pace, but it is a place we need to be comfortable working in.

Endurance Coach Chris Hinshaw joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff on the back of the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games for a discussion on the lifetime of work it takes to build capacity and create the adaptations in your body needed to perform with the best. Chris is the founder of Aerobic Capacity, a 10x Ironman Competitor, and one of the world’s top endurance coaches having coached 35 CrossFit Games Champions, the US Military, and professional and olympic athletes to the podium.

Chis and Fran nerd out on pushing the boundaries of your lactic threshold and how getting comfortable in that "death zone” must be embraced if you expect to win against the world’s best. Jessie pushes Chris on mastering the art of establishing a breathing cadence, pacing yourself effectively, and understanding how rest between intervals is just as important as the work put in during the sets.

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games and Aerobic Capacity
5:04 The definition of Aerobic Capacity
7:40 Training to lactic threshold death zone
13:22 The proper way to actively rest in training
21:07 Breathing cadence for maximum performance
28:08 The psychological impacts of unknown time, unknown distance
33:52 Tips to proper pacing

Quotes:

“Aerobic Capacity by definition is your VO2 max; your maximum oxygen uptake.” (5:08)
“Aerobic Capacity is not a sustainable pace. It’s your peak.” (7:11)
“That’s what fitness does. It changes you.” (8:38)
“Think of lactic threshold as your death zone. You can go above it. But you can’t stay there.” (11:32)
“If your stimulus is nothing, then your adaptation is nothing.” (16:44)
“I won’t coach an athlete that thinks they have it all figured out.” (32:20)
“If I have 15% of my available capacity passive because I didn’t train it, that was a mistake.” (43:02)

Chris Hinshaw’s Tips to Proper Interval Rest

Gain control of breath
Actively move around
Get your head back in the game

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#122: Retention, Great Coaches & Doing Hard Things - NCFIT Founder Jason Khalipa & Wodify CEO Brendan Rice (CrossFit Games 2023)

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Joining a gym is often the most important decision and commitment we make on our fitness journey. Which gym we choose can make or break our attitude and our results. But what makes a great gym? What keeps us there and brings us back day after day? What are the keys to retention for both the gym goer and the gym owner?

Wodify is the leading customer retention platform in the fitness industry. NCFIT was an early adopter and continues to put technology at the forefront of the gym experience.

For this episode, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff invited Wodify’s newly promoted CEO Brendan Rice and NCFIT’s Founder & the 2008 CrossFit Games Champion Jason Khalipa for an early morning coffee on the back of the US Army Fitness Truck at 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games.

Transforming the gym business has been at the center of the Wodify and NCFIT missions. Brendan and Jason share their keys to creating a customer experience and generating results through training the best coaches, never shying from doing hard things and focusing on the athlete over everything else.

Brendan also shares his vision for Wodify as he takes the helm leading with curiosity, investing in the team and maintaining Wodify’s position at the leading edge of innovation and fitness technology; a set of values that has allowed the company to expand into the Jiu-jit-su community.

Jason is one of the best coaches in fitness and explains his keys to becoming a great coach; plus he got the call to announce the games on ESPN!

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube. Then hop into the cold plunge and do hard things!

Transform your gym experience today at www.wodify.com.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games and ESPN
7:30 Transitioning from athlete to gym owner
10:50 Brendan starts his career selling mattresses
12:28 Aiming to solve the retention problem in gyms with Wodify
15:23 Why coaches are keys to retention
30:00 Brendan’s vision as the Wodify CEO
36:05 The real value of the cold plunge and doing hard things

Quotes:

“Anybody who’s an expert in their craft who doesn’t go out and try to learn new skills I think is missing out.” (10:44)
“The problem we were actually solving was retention.” (13:17)
“If gyms provide a better product on the floor by having better coaches their business is going to be healthier.” (20:31)
“No one cares what you have to say until they see how much you actually care about them as a human.” (22:35)
“One of the biggest statistics of lifespan is the ability to get on and off the floor.” (29:06)
“Intentionally choosing to do hard things makes real life things less hard.” (35:53)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#121: Making The Games - CrossFit Semi-Finalist Ellia Miller & US Army Warrior Fitness Team Athlete CPT Joe Pervall (CrossFit Games 2023)

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 09:26:00 GMT

Elite performance knows no boundaries. Whether conquering CrossFit or the battlefield, success requires the relentless pursuit of excellence. Often that relentless pursuit requires the willingness to put our bodies through pain in order for our minds to become stronger and more adaptable. It also requires us to do the dishes!

From the US Army Fitness Truck at the 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff are joined by Ellia Miller and CPT Joe Pervall, two leaders quickly rising in the CrossFit community and the military. Ellia spent years struggling with the perception of her body as she studied to become a doctor. She started CrossFit to lift weights and quickly lost almost 50 lbs, giving her a new take on life and putting fitness at the top of her priority list. She was one of the first women to serve in a US Army Infantry unit, where she physically dominated her male peers. She now follows her passion to compete in the CrossFit Games.

Joe is an athlete on the US Army Warrior Fitness Team and currently commands a US Army Special Forces Team where he leads our nation’s most elite soldiers in the defense of America. He also competes as an elite male in CrossFit using the mental, physical and emotional discipline he learned in Special Forces Selection and Assessment to drive him to earn results on the fitness stage.

Success in anything requires resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Tune in now to push your boundaries and reach new heights.

Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the CrossFit Games sauna
3:30 Ellia and Joe’s journey to CrossFit
7:17 Ellia becomes the only woman in an Infantry unit
14:08 Joe chooses shared suffering and training for Special Forces
16:03 Overcoming body perception to competing in Semifinals
28:28 Never fear making changes if it isn’t working
31:37 Balancing work, life and competing in CrossFit
37:59 Launching RISE Athletes
41:49 Ellia and Joe’s Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“The adrenaline spike came more from going into an Infantry unit as a female and feeling like I needed to prove myself.” (11:10)
“I don’t want to be the female that sets the bad example.” (12:22)
“You can also build a tolerance and comfortability in that place of pain.” (13:39)
“In training you just have to put yourself in uncomfortable situations all the time.” (15:33)
“I learned to be confident in my body for what it’s capable of instead of what it looks like.” (21:52)
“I think it’s important to learn what you don’t like just as much as learning what you do like.” (37:36)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#120: Mastering The Double Under, Jump Rope Champion Mira Wate & US Army Warrior Fitness Team Athlete SPC Ava Georg (CrossFit Games 2023)

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:31:00 GMT

Mastering the double under isn’t just about jumping rope…or is it jump rope? It’s about harnessing a skill that’s often more mental than physical and requires us to just go for it!

Jump rope is also more than just a part of a cardio routine or a CrossFit workout; it’s also an opportunity to bring together teams and build a common connection.

Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff are joined by two Jump Rope experts, German National Champion, Mira Wate and US Army Warrior Fitness Team Member SPC Ava Georg from the US Army Fitness Truck at the 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games.

Together, they share their journeys of competing in jump rope. Mira has leveraged her success in the sport to build corporate development and team building programs around teaching groups how a team that can jump rope together can achieve anything together.

Ava’s career in athletics began with jump rope, leading her to competing in CrossFit, joining the Infantry and becoming a member of the US Army Warrior Fitness Team; an Army job that combines service to our nation with competing as an elite athlete.

Take a listen or watch on YouTube as Fran and Jessie master the double under. Learn more and read the transcript on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Is it jump rope or jumping rope?
2:35 How do you even get into jump rope?
4:05 The different types of jump rope?
7:00 Jump rope at CrossFit Games
9:49 Mira’s corporate jump rope team building events
11:27 International jump rope competition
12:13 Joining the Army Warrior Fitness Team
21:42 The best part of CrossFit Games

Quotes:

“No matter if you want to get physically strong or mentally strong, it helps you either way.” (5:44)
“The double under crossovers from last year…this is insane.” (7:14)
“There’s a lot of options…to motivate people. The rope is the connection.” (11:20)
“I would have never seen myself being able to combine the both of them. It’s a dream.” (15:02)
“You don’t actually know if you're good or bad unless you pin yourself up against some competition.” (16:04)
“There’s many opportunities in the military. You just need to find them.” (20:19)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

The Magic Of CrossFit: Jumping In With CEO Don Faul (CrossFit Games 2023)

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 10:10:46 GMT

Constantly varied, functional movements executed at high intensity. That’s the definition of CrossFit. What started 20 years ago as a challenge to traditional workout routines, has become an institution in fitness revolutionizing the way we think about performance and what the human body is capable of.

CrossFit CEO Don Faul is a year into the job and joins Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff live from the US Army Fitness Truck at NOBULL CrossFit Games 2023 to explain why doing hard things is the staple of CrossFit and critical to achieving our goals; and why the Level 1 Trainer Certificate Course sets the foundation for a long and healthy CrossFit journey.

Don also shares his vision to expand CrossFit’s reach, empower affiliate owners, and appeal the brand to not only the elite athletes but everyone who seeks to be all they can be, regardless of age, fitness level or ability. Central to this expansion is bringing the CrossFit Games back to ESPN and leaving Madison, WI for Fort Worth, TX.

If you’re an OG member of the CrossFit community, or just getting started, take a listen or watch our discussion to chart your CrossFit path and ensure fitness for life. We never know what the CrossFit Games competition will bring, but we can be sure there will be some magic moments we will remember forever.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Jessie and Fran join the CrossFit Community
3:19 Preparing for the Level 1 Certificate Course
7:04 Be All You Can Be & fitness for life
12:02 Scaling, Thresholds and doing hard things
16:26 CrossFit Games are back on ESPN
19:20 The end of an era in Madison…on to Texas!
21:05 The magic will happen

Quotes:

“We’re united in people’s passion for CrossFit.” (3:13)
“It’s not off the cuff. What we do is empirically driven.” (4:00)
“It is constantly varied by design.” (6:54)
“At CrossFit we want to help you realize your full potential. It’s fitness for life.” (9:13)
“This methodology by design meets you where you are.” (12:02)
“Success for most workouts is feeling like you gave what you could that day.” (14:12)
“We’ve been around now for over 20 years; and we’ve been around because we have real impact.” (18:19)
“The magic will happen…and when it does, it’s going to be amazing.” 22:07)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#119: Building A CrossFit Dream Team - Francos Misfits Shaylin Laure, Alexis Johnson, Brandon Luckett, Logan Collins (CrossFit Games 2023)

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Would you cough up blood for your team? Would you die on the competition floor for them so you never let them down. Do you have the courage to train just as hard as you compete when you're doing it for others, not just yourself? That’s the difference between individual and team competition at CrossFit Games.

Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with CrossFit Francos Misfits to prove that love, teamwork, and unwavering dedication can create an unstoppable team. Shaylin Laure, Alexis Johnson, Brandon Luckett, and Logan Collins share their remarkable journeys from individual competitors to an unstoppable team, revealing their formula for training and communication.

They also discuss the art of selflessness, knowing when to step back for the greater good of the team and when it’s their own turn to step up and take more of the load. Don’t miss it live from the US Army Fitness Truck at NOBULL CrossFit Games 2023.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to CrossFit Games 2023
2:04 How Alexis built the team
4:32 Why Brandon chose the team over individual competition
6:11 The difference between competing on a team vs as an individual
7:18 Training to cough up blood for each other
11:50 Competing as an integrated team
13:55 Who’s the best at….?
15:08 The best parts of CrossFit Games
17:12 The test questions!

Quotes:

“I wanted a team…that was willing to lay it all out there.” (3:51)
“Alexis has pulled me out of retirement twice now.” (6:04)
“You don’t get to just think about yourself. If I need to take more of the load for the team…you have to step up.” (6:15)
“The first couple of times we met, the worm as a team just beat me into the dirt.” (8:09)
“I’m willing to cough up blood on the competition floor for the other three.” (10:32)
“We actually each want to take more load. We desire to do more.” (10:57)
“We all have a different role. If everyone had the same role it wouldn’t work.” (13:26)
“I don’t think the beauty’s in the finish line. The beauty’s kind of in the journey.” (15:17)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#118: The Spirit Of The Crossfit Games - Bronze Medalist Roman Khrennikov (CrossFit Games 2023)

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:16:19 GMT

Sometimes it doesn’t go according to the plan. Roman Khrennikov came to CrossFit Games 2023 with one goal in mind…to win at all costs. He led the field in nearly every event for three days opening a commanding lead. Until he scaled a log on the first event of the final day…

In this precursor episode from day two of the games, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with Roman from the US Army Fitness Truck in Madison, WI to dive deep into his journey of drive, dedication, determination, resilience and pursuit of excellence. Roman shares how he overcame visa challenges to even compete in the games, forcing him to leave his wife and unborn son in Russia. He shares his decision to change coaches in the lead up to the games, his training mindset, his focus on competing in the moment instead of comparing himself to the past, and how dancing helped him become a better athlete. Roman also explains his thoughts on injury and how to deal with the adversity of not achieving your goals.

Roman earned the bronze medal and is the recipient of the coveted Spirit of the Games award after a historic performance demonstrating his mindset to compete to win no matter the challenge; which for Roman in these games included competing in the final two events with a broken foot and torn ligament. He’s a true champion on and off the competition floor inspiring others through his incredible story of triumph and perseverance in the world of elite fitness.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to CrossFit Games 2023 Opening Ceremonies
1:48 Roman’s mindset coming into the games as a favorite
3:26 From dancing to CrossFit
6:52 Roman can’t get his visa to come to America
9:51 Why Roman left Russia and his family to train in the US
13:14 Roman’s training mindset to prepare for the games
16:27 Managing training to avoid injury
18:10 Roman’s plan to win the games

Quotes:

“Be kind. Help Others.It really, really makes my soul happy.” (9:34)
“Don’t cheat yourself. Work really hard. Put 100% in.” (15:54)
“Sometimes you can win. Sometimes you can lose. Sometimes you can get injured. It’s a part of the sport.” (16:13)
“When I go to competitions I’m going to win.” (19:36)
“I think about the competition as of today. I don’t compare myself to the past.” (20:03)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK, Yeti & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#117: Leading America's Inner City Youth - Green Beret Project's Adam Kramer, Jaylen Powell & Kaseem Cotton (CrossFit Games 2023 Series)

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Win the fight on the front lines of our inner cities. That’s the mission of the Green Beret Project. In every corner of the world America’s Green Berets win the fight on the front lines of battle, but what if we deployed that same power that builds and empowers foreign armies to empower, mentor, transform and grow leaders in our inner city youth.

Fran Racioppi kicks off The Jedburgh Podcast coverage of the 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Games from the US Army Fitness Truck in Madison, WI with Adam Kramer, Jaylen Powell and Kaseem Cotton of the Green Beret Project. Adam serves as the executive director responsible for turning boys like Jaylen and Kaseem into responsible adults who understand the value of community, hard work and responsibility.

Adam shares how his journey from a federal penitentiary has provided the credibility and experience needed to identify with underserved youth. Jaylen and Kaseem discuss how the program has kept them off the streets and provided an alternative option to crime, drugs and gangs as they prepare for college this fall.

Learn more about Green Beret Project and empower the next generation of leaders.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome toCrossFit Games 2023 and Be All You Be
3:45 Green Beret Project’s Programs
5:09 Getting kids off the streets
10:29 Growing up and learning from the streets, selling drugs and prison
15:29 Bringing inner city kids together with law enforcement
17:30 Learning life skills and growing through CrossFit
22:50 College football and carpentry
31:04 How to support the Green Beret Project
34:21 Adam, Jalyen and Kaseem’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“The mission: identifying young males that need strong men in their life.” (2:48)
“I don’t want to be that. I have a job now…this is gonna get me off the streets.” (6:25)
“It made me become a man. It made me have a bigger mentality than what I had before.” (8:21)
“Working with the local [police department] is helping break down barriers in the community.” (16:21)
“What drives me to be better is knowing that you’re better than me.” (23:24)
“I want to be on his level or stronger. I don’t want him to keep saying he’s stronger than me.” (28:17)
“A lot of kids in my school, their main goal is to be a pro athlete or a gang banger.”(29:31)

This episode is brought to you by US Army, Wodify, Hero Coffee, GORUCK, Yeti & Compass Workforce Solutions.

#116: Educating the Children of Fallen Patriots - Development Officer Jeanette McMahon

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

What happens to the children of our service members when they make the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom and American way of life? Who makes sure they’re taken care of, have a bright future and are afforded every opportunity to be successful in life?

In this episode, Fran Racioppi dives into the incredible work of Children of Fallen Patriots, an organization dedicated to providing educational support to the children of fallen service members. Fran is joined by Fallen Patriots’ Development Officer, Colonel Jeanette McMahon from Pepisco Headquarters to celebrate the 2023 culmination of Rolling Remembrance, Pepsico’s cross-country journey to honor the American Flag, the heroes who defend it, and the children who are left behind.

Jeanette and her children are themselves the Gold Star Family of LTC Michael McMahon. She shares with Fran their “growth of grief” as the emotional toll of loss changes as children grow up. Jeanette was a West Point graduate and one of the first women in US Army Aviation. Today, she works to ensure every child of our fallen has access to an education.

Learn more about Fallen Patriots and get involved in the education of our next generation of leaders.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Rolling Remembrance and Pepsi Headquarters
1:31 Losing a parent in the line of duty
4:10 America’s future relies on the education of our youth
9:21 COL Jeanette McMahon leads women in Army Aviation
12:12 Remembering LTC Michael McMahon
14:43 How children grieve at every milestone of life
19:04 Rolling Remembrance results in over $2M in Pepsico support
23:05 Get involved to support the children of our fallen

Quotes:

“Children of Fallen Patriots provides that debt free college education for those students who have lost a parent in the line of duty.” (2:20)
“Our future of our country relies on our youth.” (7:15)
“I think you just kind of go into automatic survival mode; especially a mom with kids. You have to get them through it.” (14:13)
“It’s a growth of grief…children go through those stages but their brain actually develops and is now able to understand it at a different level. “ (14:55)
“It stops at 60 places across the country. It just literally drives from state to state.” (21:05)
“All the folks that we hire as scholarship administrators are Gold Star Kids themselves and have received scholarships.” (22:27)
“We have 12,000 kids in our system. We know there’s 25,000 out there.” (23:45

This episode is brought to you by Compass Workforce Solutions.

#115: Fist bumps, Volleyball and Running With A Mouthful of Water - GORUCK Games 2023 Champions Carly Wopat & Matt Kempson, GORUCK Founders Jason & Emily McCarthy, Sandlot Founder B.J. Naedele

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Nobody cares what you can do fresh. The GORUCK Games takes grit, endurance and a willingness to run with a mouthful of water. Anything Special Forces are on the table.

To close out the 2nd Annual Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff dive into this two-part episode explaining all things GORUCK Games with the GORUCK founders that created them and the 2023 Champions who tackled the event head on.

GORUCK Founders Jason and Emily McCarthy, as well as Sandlot Technology Founder B.J. Naedele share the theory behind the games, the savage thought-process they took to design the events and why camaraderie is fostered through military-inspired training and a few fist bumps.

In the second part, 2023 Champions Carly Wopat and Matt Kempson shut down the games as they recap their personal journeys that included a 100 lb ruck run, false finishes, knot tying, hand-to-hand combat, and moving 3000 lbs of sandbags. Carly shares her career as a professional beach volleyball player and a firefighter, while Matt explains how building the foundation to his house was the key to winning the final event.

Learn more about Carly Wopat, Matt Kempson and the GORUCK Games.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the 2023 GORUCK Games Finals
2:01 All Special Forces training is fair game
5:38 Making the GORUCK Games grittier while welcoming the masses
8:46 The Sandlot App and the dehumanization of social media
15:33 Defining the “Fist Bump”
21:42 The hidden gem of the FitTalks
29:34 What to expect at the GORUCK Games Finals
34:15 Who is Carly Wopat? Volleyball player, firefighter, athlete
40:21 Matt Kempson leaves a legacy with knots
45:38 GORUCK Games events explained
56:57 Can you run with a mouthful of water, fight and hold sandbags?
1:12:04 Coming back next year?

Quotes:

“Anything that they would train us to do in Special Forces is fair game.” (2:24)
“What’s a fist bump worth? That’s what you do with your friends.“ (11:09)
“Everyone was probably like ok this volleyball girl is gonna tap out on the first endurance race.” (35:36)
“There’s a big difference between 3rd and 1st…I was on a mission.” (42:17)
“I can’t not do my best.” (49:44)
“I can't control how he’s gonna do. I can only control how I’m gonna do. I’m just gonna go until I die.” (1:00:00)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

XPT, Training in Water and Fitness Weirdos: Jumping In With XPT Director Of Performance PJ Nestler (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games Series 2023)

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 09:14:00 GMT

Water is the great equalizer. For most, it’s where our true limits are found, tested and overcome. Where failure becomes the stepping stone to greatness.

In this episode, PJ Nestler, the Director of Performance at XPT: Extreme Performance Training, joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff on the final day of the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to share how the highest achievers embrace discomfort to win no matter the challenge.

PJ coaches athletes in the NFL, NHL, MLB and UFC and reveals the secrets behind XPT's unique training philosophy including their Performance Model of Breath, Move, Recover, Fuel & Connect. Founded by elite athletes Laird Hamilton and Gabby Reese, XPT puts water at the center of their training model, forcing athletes to face their fears early and often to build a foundation of hard work and resilience aimed at dealing with everyday life.

PJ also illustrates how making gains requires a deliberate process, variation in our training and a focus on building connections with ourselves, others and purpose beyond our own goals. We can be great at one thing, but versatility across many things is the key to longevity and overall health.

Learn more about XPT and PJ Nestler on the web or follow them on social media.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version of our conversation on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast and the ice bath
2:42 Laird Hamilton & Gabby Reese found XPT Fitness
6:15 Why breathwork is the foundation of performance
11:47 How variable fitness improves health
15:00 Doing fitness vs having a plan
20:02 The benefits of the ice bath
23:09 How connection increases performance
28:46 How to translate training discomfort to life

Quotes:

“How can we be better parents? How can we be better business people?” (3:05)
“Your breathing can either be a weakness or a weapon.” (6:54)
“Movement should be variable. Let’s look at the things you’re not developing.” (12:37)
“Just doing a bunch of fitness is like driving randomly and hoping you’re going to get to a destination.” (15:05)
“All these people are probably the weirdos in their neighborhood.” (25:10)
“We will find your failure limit very quickly.” (29:47)

PJ’s Three Pillars of Connection

Connection to self
Connection to others
Connecting to something outside themself

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#114: Stop Mistaking Duration For Effort - Street Parking Founder & CEO Miranda Alcaraz (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:18:00 GMT

Getting fit doesn’t require tons of time and equipment. It takes consistency and the commitment to just do something. Fitness knows no boundaries.

Miranda Alcaraz, the Founder and CEO of Street Parking, joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff on the final day of 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to explain how to find a workout out in any location or circumstance. Miranda shared the philosophy behind Street Parking and her vision after years of competing in CrossFit.

She emphasized the need to embrace real-life challenges and adapt workouts to fit our changing lifestyles; which often includes our children in our fitness routines and challenges the notion that interruptions should hinder progress. With Street Parking, there are no excuses, no limitations, and no compromises on their drive to create a supportive and inclusive community that values every member's unique journey.

Learn more about Miranda Alcaraz and Street Parking on the web or follow them on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast
4:21 Getting great results with minimal time and equipment
7:31 Stop putting workouts on the pedestal
12:18 Tailoring workouts and removing the leaderboard
14:44 Redefining virtual training and the Street Parking App
19:38 The explosive growth of Street Parking
25:18 Street Parking In The Wild Tour
27:18 Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“I knew that with very simple workouts, you get really great results with minimal time and equipment.” (4:28)
“What I truly believe is missing for most people is just consistency.” (6:21)
“Don’t mistake duration for effort.” (9:43)
“We got rid of our leaderboard completely.” (13:33)
“On the app today there’s three versions of the daily workout…based on the equipment that you have.” (17:48)
“When the pandemic happened we didn’t have to change anything.” (22:07)

Miranda Alcaraz’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Move
Spend focused, quality time with family
Write down something positive

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#113: Getting Fit Over 40, Dumbbells and the Toilet Trust Fall - Fitness Coach Steph Gaudreau (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 10:04:00 GMT

What happened to the “over the hill” parties of the 80’s and 90’s? Who says we can’t be an athlete at any age regardless of when we start our fitness journey? Fitness Coach for the over 40, Steph Gaudreau, joined Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff on the final day of the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to explain how to get fit at any age.

Steph breaks down why 40 is a milestone we shouldn’t fear, exactly what happens to our bodies post 40 and how we can break the stigma that it’s too late to start. Steph’s process is simple…embrace the dumbbells, add plyometrics, and beware of the “toilet trust fall!”

Learn more about Steph Gaudreau on the web or follow him on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast and fitness over 40
2:38 You can start getting fit over 40!
5:37 The dangers of the “toilet trust fall”
7:56 What actually happens to our body at 40?
11:02 Becoming an athlete at any age and skill level
18:24 Why dumbbells are underrated
22:00 Steph’s new app-based strength program and the de-load
25:55 How to continue plyometrics as you age
28:42 Steph’s Foundations to Success

Quotes:

"Sometimes that barrier to entry can feel so high. (3:34)
“When you’re 40 or older, there’s a lot of misinformation.There’s a lot of fear tactics.” (3:57)
“When I was growing up we were having ‘over the hill’ parties.” (8:11)
“If we can figure out who is the person we are trying to become then that helps to shape the habits we put into place.” (12:55)
“Dumbbells are really accessible for people and are very versatile.” (18:53)
“Plyometrics are the chef’s kiss for building bone.” (22:43)

Steph Gaudreau’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Move
Connect with others
Have a morning ritual (with coffee!)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#112: Meatballs, A Killer Morning Routine & The Relationship Business - Entrepreneur, Restaurateur, Athlete Michael Chernow (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:20:00 GMT

Do what you say you’re going to do. It’s a simple concept that’s too often lost when the times get tough and we’re under pressure. To close out day two of the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games entrepreneur, restaurateur and athlete Michael Chernow joins Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff for a post-apocalyptic rain storm conversation about building businesses, forging relationships and committing to success.

Michael is the founder of Seamores and Kreatures of Habit, and the co-founder of The Meatball Shop. As a New York City native he candidly shares how he entered the restaurant industry to escape a difficult childhood homelife; a decision that began a career of hospitality service, but also led to severe drug and alcohol addiction.

Faced with a decision point about his life at just 23, Michael explains how we overcome adversity by focusing on our choices, setting a killer morning routine, and building meaningful relationships with people who push us to succeed.

An exceptional entrepreneur distinguishes themselves by consistently taking decisive action and by doing what they say they’re going to do; and for Michael that plan includes making the CrossFit Games by 45!

Learn more about Michael Chernow on the web or follow him on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast & keeping your word
3:00 Founding Seamores and CrossFit competition goals
8:30 Michael begins working in restaurants to escape life at home
11:15 Overcoming drug abuse in the restaurant industry
13:55 Opening The Meatball Shop with a great story
19:06 Making healthy food taste good
25:15 Waking up and making the choice to perform with a killer morning routine
35:18 You get out what you put in
38:30 Get back up…it’s the only thing you have to do
49:24 The business of business is relationships
59:26 Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“I’ve made it my mission to have people around me that I’m chasing.” (3:35)
“Connect with and engage with and create environments for people to strive in.” (10:25)
We were opening up a New York City meatball place that had never been done before.” (17:41)
“I like to start my day everyday by pouring a rock solid foundation.” (27:45)
“I’ve made it my mission to learn to love the hard and the hurt.” (41:11)
“If you want to be elite, you’re gonna get hurt.” (41:40)
“People have to like you...The business of business is relationships.” (51:33)

Michael’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Love
Be Loved
Move Your Ass

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#111: Have Humans Become Too Soft? - The Comfort Crisis Author Michael Easter (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 10:50:00 GMT

Have humans become too soft? Has our constant innovation and ingenuity created a society that chooses comfort over the hard work needed to grow to become our best selves? In this episode, Michael Easter joins Fran Racioppi live from the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to discuss the perils of the The Comfort Crisis, Michael's groundbreaking book that confronts one of society's most pressing challenges head-on.

Wearing his 2% hat, Michael shares how we can enhance our mental and physical strength 2% at a time to make small incremental changes that will compound over time without requiring a complex formula of restrictions and activities. Fran and Michael break down the importance of doing hard things, focusing on solving the root causes of our need for comfort and why we have to love the process of discomfort to grow.

Fran also presses Michael on the state of journalism today, the negative impact of internet click bait and how Michael’s focus on normalcy and accuracy is bringing sanity back to journalism today.

Learn more about Michael Easter on the web or follow him on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast
1:38 Have we become soft as a society and losing to cavemen?
3:22 Why we need to do hard things
6:40 You have to love the process for long term gains
9:20 How to build effectiveness by focusing on solving the problem
11:20 Adding 2% to our performance through fitness and not overcomplicating nutrition
15:24 How internet click bait has negatively affected journalism
19:25 Michael’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“For millions of years doing the next easiest, most comfortable thing; that served us.” (1:51)
“Our ancestors, they exercised about 14x more than us.” (2:46)
“The innovations that tend to take off, they tend to make our lives easier.” (4:21)
“It’s almost like inactivity is poison.” (5:41)
“You have to embrace short-term comfort to get a long-term gain.” (5:52)
“100% of those people, they knew that taking the stairs would give them a long-term benefit.” (11:31)
“We overcomplicate the shit out of nutrition.” (12:57)
“Trying to restore some sanity, and normalcy, and accuracy to journalism is kind of my charge.” (19:06)

Michael Easter’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Write first thing in the morning
Be active
Laugh with people

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#110: The SEVENTY2 Survival System - Uncharted Supply Company Founder & CEO Christian Schauf (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Most emergencies last less than 72 hours. Luck favors those who think the most about their preparation before an emergency even occurs. For this episode, Fran Racioppi is joined by Christian Schauf, founder and CEO of Uncharted Supply Company, live from the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games. Christian launched Uncharted with an investment from Shark Tank after pitching the SEVENTY2 survival system; a kit designed specifically to keep you alive for the first 72 hours of a crisis.

Fran and Christian unpack the secrets to securing an investment from the Sharks, the up’s and down’s of entrepreneurism, and just what is in the SEVENTY2. Christian also shares his three keys to successful product design and why there are no life hacks on the road to success.

Learn more about Christian Schauf and Uncharted Supply Company and pick up your SEVENTY2 or follow him on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast
2:30 Christian leads USO music tours through the Middle East
4:31 The SEVENTY2 sells triple expectations on Shark Tank
7:23 What’s in the SEVENTY2?
11:26 There are no life hacks
13:25 Determining new product ideas
15:36 How to get people to think about preparation
22:44 Christian’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“If you were away from home and your 10 year old son was home alone what could you give somebody like that would tangibly change the situation for the better. (4:12)
“I’m a big believer in burning the ships…You go for it if you believe in it.” (5:31)
“I want them talking positively about us because that’s going to drive sales.” (6:12)
“It was about the most likely things that can happen to you…and making sure we had a wide range of products that can sustain life.” (8:35)
“It’s a hack society. A life hack. It gets you nowhere.” (12:39)
“The people that are the most prepared think about it the most.” (15:57)
“Keep doing the right stuff in the right way. It’s gonna work out.” (21:17)

Christian Schauff’s Three Daily Foundations To Success

Take care of yourself through sleep and fitness
Surround yourself with the best people
Focus on high quality

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#109: Freedom and the Non-News Media - Journalist & Bestselling Author Sebastian Junger (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:08:00 GMT

What is Freedom? The human spirit at its core seeks two opposing ideals; to be free from the influence of others, yet to be part of a community of like-minded people. Journalist and Best-Selling Author Sebastian Junger joins Fran Racioppi live from the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to share how his new #1 New York Times Best-Selling book Freedom is exploring this simple, yet complex ideal of the human character.

Through a 400-mile trip along Pennsylvania’s Amtrak line, Sebastian chronicles the nuances of human nature's plight to forge their own path, while remaining reliant on the resources of their communities and government. He defines the differences freedom brings between the wealthy and the poor, and how despite our best efforts to be self-sufficient, there is no complete freedom of the human spirit.

Fran and Sebastian also cover the state of the news media, the negative impact of the non-news commentary on America, and the bond between journalists and soldiers who often share the same experiences in war, but from very different perspectives.

Learn more about Sebastian Junger and pick up your copy of Freedom or any one of his best-selling books on his website or follow him on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast
0:59 The bond between journalists and soldiers
3:56 Reporting on the most violent places on Earth
7:47 How the non-news media is dividing America
14:36 Allowing journalists onto the front lines with American soldiers
19:32 Defining “Freedom”
22:17 Sebastian’s new book: Freedom
27:17 Exploring America’s wealth along the railroad
29:22 The power of the American railroad and trains
33:40 Sebastian’s Three Daily Foundations To Success

Quotes:

“It never occurred to me that the US would wind up in another ground war.” (1:24)
“What I try to do is pick stories that illuminate something important about humans.” (4:59)
“News is an objective delivery of facts and objective analysis of facts.” (8:06)
“What’s not fine is distorting reality to produce pre-formatted conclusions.” (10:22)
“It’s not a news source unless they’re willing to critique their own. And if they’re not…it’s propaganda.” (11:05)
“There is no complete freedom. You either owe your life and your loyalty to your local community or to your government.” (21:10)
“Wealthy people have enormous choices in their lives and that’s a form of freedom..” (27:50)

Sebastian Junger’s Three Daily Foundations To Success

Be emotionally and intellectually present with my family
Remain physically active
Play the accordion

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#108: Eb & Swole - Men's Health Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 08:41:00 GMT

Biceps are earned not given. The evolution of fitness has seen trends come and go; but one thing has never changed…push-ups, pull-ups, squats and going hard still work. Fran Racioppi is joined by Men’s Health Fitness Director Eb Samuel live from the 2023 Sandlot Jax and GORUCK Games to bring fitness back to the basics and dispel the myths of today’s fads.

Eb started his career as a sports journalist covering the NY Giants biggest headlines, but also creating relationships with players based on his unique approach asking questions about workout routines, not just how they played on the field. Fran and Eb cover the evolution of journalism, the rise of social media and how great journalists maintain relationships with the athletes they cover.

They also dig into foundational fitness. Simple movements based on precision execution and hard work. That’s Eb’s simple key to lifelong fitness for everyone from Arnold Schwartzenegger to freshman football. Eb also shares his new YouTube series Eb and Swole where he’s coaching all of us on the basics, teaching us how to manage our training load as we age and instilling the importance of the mind-muscle connection.

Learn more from Eb Samuel on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast and the Dodge WC-51
2:20 Eb becomes a journalist to cover athletics
5:00 How do you develop trust between journalists and athletes
10:16 Why journalists are putting their opinions before the story
13:02 Eb lands his dream job at Men’s Health (and interviews Arnold Schwartzenegger)
17:08 Eb’s theory on building fitness
22:39 Managing an athlete’s threshold training as they age
26:42 The mind-muscle connection to drive muscle development
30:49 What’s next for fitness?
33:12 Eb’s Three Daily Foundations To Success

Quotes:

“To develop a good relationship with those guys it's about being around and being available.” (6:11)
“It’s pretty much my dream job…I wanted to talk to athletes about fitness and I wanted to get as fit as them.” (13:29)
“The very basics of fitness don’t change. Push-ups, pull-ups, squats. They all work.” (16:53)
“The two things we really want to do are build as much muscle and strength as possible.” (19:24)
“When we’re younger we can play in all the tool sandboxes.” (24:50)
“A lot of exercises are skill and you have to feel them in order to be able to do them.” (30:15)

Eb Samuel’s Three Daily Foundations To Success

Pick up something heavy
Build meaningful relationships
Set a written to-do list

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#107: Getting Past Hard on Day 1 - Boston Celtics Great & Slam Dunk Champion Dee Brown (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 10:54:00 GMT

Greatness leaves footprints. But what we are willing to learn from greatness will be the difference in our own success; especially if it involves the legendary Boston Celtics! Fran Racioppi welcomes the first NBA star to join The Jedburgh Podcast as one of Boston’s greatest, Slam Dunk Champion Dee Brown climbs into the back of the WC-51 live from the 2023 Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games.

Dee explains how the Celtics built a dynasty and shares what we can do on our own teams to impart a culture of winning, hard work and no excuses. He takes us back to the start, from his 1990 NBA draft selection, and the lessons he learned as a new guy standing in the locker room with GOATs like Larry Bird. It's time to get past hard on day one!

Dee also shows us the importance of ego in both our success and failure; and how to lead a group of experts when cohesion is the most important factor to winning. He also shares what we learn from competitive athletics, how we can transition from elite player, to manager, to coach, to executive, and the differences in coaching men vs women.

The Reebok Pump is back and just like its debut in the 90’s, Dee Brown is pumping it up to slam it down. Learn more about Dee Brown on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast and a kid’s dream
2:03 What it takes to get drafted in the NBA
3:43 Getting past hard from day one
6:00 Being open to learn from greatness like Larry Bird
11:05 Maintaining curiosity and competitiveness for greatness after the NBA
14:01 How to make the transition from player to coach
18:25 The differences in coaching men vs women
21:20 Why teamwork is based on trust and the most important factor is sports
23:56 How to manage the the egos and how athletes have changed
27:32 Being a dad first and mentoring the next generation of youth players
31:10 The Reebok Pump is back with the Pump Universe
32:21 Dee’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“You don’t make any excuses. There’s not an excuse you can make.” (5:00)
“Make sure you learn how to get past hard from day one. It’s gonna be hard.” (5:10)
“Greatness leaves footprints.” (6:01)
“He [Larry Bird] got great when nobody was watching.” (8:33)
“Even when I retired I wanted to be in situations where I challenged other people; I challenged myself.” (11:44)
“Being around women’s sports…helped me be a better dad.” (19:34)
“The six most important worlds I learned from sports…I will not let you down.” (21:57)

Dee Brown’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Meditate
Communicate
Exercise

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#106: Why the world says move less and eat more - Nutritional Strategist Dr. Mike Roussell (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:35:00 GMT

Why is nutritional discipline so hard? Seriously? Most of us already know what healthy food and healthy eating habits look like. But why do we quit, or never even start, on our eating plan before almost anything else along our journey towards physical, mental and emotional well-being?

Nutritional strategist Dr. Mike Roussell joins Fran Racioppi live from the Sandlot Jax Fitness Festival and the 2nd Annual GORUCK Games to explain why we quit on nutrition well before we quit on exercise itself. They explore his strategy around the mental aspect of nutrition, the psychology of cravings, hedonic hunger, and all the things that keep us from maintaining nutritional discipline.

More importantly, he reminds us how simple and uncomplicated proper nutrition can really be if we’re just willing to commit to it; even if it’s not perfect. From a performance perspective, what we put into our body is often the final few details that separates the good from the great, so take a listen or watch their conversation, then make a few different decisions to improve your nutritional discipline.

Learn more about Dr. Mike Roussell on the web and on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast
2:20 Why is it so hard to be disciplined in nutrition?
5:22 How the different types of hunger affect our consumption
9:30 Why we struggle with our food choices
16:08 The science behind the nutrition mindset
19:20 How to setting realistic goals
24:11 The next nutrition breakthrough
28:15 Dr. Rousell’s Three Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“Why do we have that difference in our brains between this total hard core commitment on the exercise side, and just this fleeting commitment on the nutrition side?” (3:48)
“If you’re eating the right foods, you actually get to eat a ton.” (9:10)
“I’m not a big fan of food guilt.” (10:38)
“The world is out to make you move less and eat more.” (14:41)
“When you say ‘hey I’m gonna eat healthier food’ you’re literally saying “I’m going to eat things that don’t taste as good.” (17:15)
“When I feel my motivation or my effort waning…I read the visceral goal narrative.” (23:35)
“What’s the thing that’s holding you back. Not the 50 things that we could do. What’s the thing that we could do that’s going to make the biggest difference.” (27:48)

Dr. Mike’s Three Daily Foundations

Protein at every meal
Exercise
Fruits and vegetables at each meal

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#105: Objective Secure: Green Beret Nick Lavery On Finding Success One Small Milestone At A Time (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:40:00 GMT

“Objective Secure” doesn’t mean the mission is complete; it means one milestone has been unlocked and it’s time to prepare for the next one. Whether you’re a Green Beret or just trying to navigate life, your mission is going to be achieved by securing one objective after another along your path to achieve your goals.

To close out day one of 2023 Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games, Fran Racioppi is joined by Green Beret Nick Lavery; the first above the knee amputee to return to combat on a Special Forces Team and the author of Objective Secure. In this sunset discussion Nick shares his perspective on persistence in the face of failure and success, and why periods of pain and discomfort are opportunities to excel.

Nick comes to grips with the decisions he made balancing rapport with complacency that resulted in the insider attack in which he lost his leg when an Afghan partner opened fire on his team. He shares his recovery story and how the small goals he set for himself along created the path to his return to full combat duty; something no other Green Beret had been able to achieve. And he shares why we need our own personal versions of “the dungeon;” the place we go to focus and put in the hard work to achieve our goals.

Get your copy of Objective Secure and learn more about Nick Lavery on the web and on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast; we met in a bar!
5:12 Why moments of discomfort are opportunities to excel
12:00 Nick gets shots by an Afghan Army Soldier
20:20 Nick saves his own life
23:00 The Objective Secure mindset
28:04 The road back to combat runs through the dungeon
38:44 Persistence in the face of both failure and success
41:52 Return to Afghanistan and the acceptance of average
47:26 Why we need failure and other people
56:50 Nick’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“I just saw these moments of pain and discomfort and suffering as moments to excel.” (6:29)
“Skill is only earned through thousands of hours of hammering down on a particular craft.” (8:23)
“When you see the wrong thing happen hundreds of times and there’s no negative effect, you can become complacent.” (15:07)
“There’s still work to do. There’s always something you can do.” (21:37)
“It’s focusing on that 25 meter target knowing it’s in line with the 300 meter target.” (25:11)
“Persistence also applies with continuing to move forward in the face of milestones; in the face of success” (40:01)
“The wisdom is located in getting it wrong.” (47:46)
“Success is nothing more than the sum of small efforts performed daily.” (54:58)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#104: Building America's Next Courageous Leaders - +More Perfect Union Founder Jake Harriman (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 08:52:00 GMT

America’s leadership is more politically divided and divisive than almost anytime in our nation’s history. We sit at a generational and societal crossroad that will require leaders of courage, unity and vision to emerge and take charge in the best interest of the country; not for their own fame and fortune.

+More Perfect Union Founder and CEO Jake Harriman spent years abroad solving world hunger and the effects of violent extremism, only to return home to a divided America; something this US Marine has vowed to change. Jake joins Fran Racioppi in the back of the 1944 Dodge live from Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 for a conversation on the state of America today, and why he thinks military Veteran leadership in politics is the key to unifying the fabric of America.

Fran and Jake dive deep into the driving factors for disunity, such as social media, generational change, and the loss of agency in our leaders who have too often become beholden to the extremes, forgetting about the 70% of the population who live in the center. Jake defines the perfect centrist leader and Fran presses him on how everyday Veterans with a passion for change can overcome the funding and support barriers to entry to jump into political races nationwide.

Learn more about +More Perfect Union on the web and on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Jedburgh workout
2:23 Solving societal problems in the “Grey Zone”
9:32 Jake fails in Kenya
12:25 +More Perfect Union mission to close the divide in America
17:28 Why we need Veterans in politics
20:52 The role of social media in fueling political divide
25:17 The role of regulation in social media vs the First Amendment
31:52 How does a Veteran fund a campaign to get involved?
35:27 What does a centrist leader look like today
41:00 Jake’s daily three foundations to success

Quotes:

“The aid groups could not reach people because in these gray zones it’s too dangerous.” (3:28)
“The best ideas I ever had when I was in these communities came from the leaders I worked with.” (8:14)
“I didn’t recognize the country we left to fight for.” (13:13)
“Our political system is set up to incentivize the most extreme behavior to win.” (14:57)
“We gotta do one more tour here at home to help save this country.” (18:02)
“The algorithms that drive profits are the ones that fuel hate and fear.” (23:48)
“70% of the country is in the middle…and they want change.” (34:40)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#103: From Janitor To Tech Leader: Wodify Founder and CEO Ameet Shah (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

The most successful businesses solve a need. The most successful entrepreneurs identify opportunities and display the courage to take action; even if just to prove they just might succeed. Ameet Shah started his professional career as a janitor at Mars Chocolate. Today, he is the Founder and CEO of Wodify; the fitness industry’s leading customer retention platform.

In this opening conversation from Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023, Ameet climbed into the 1944 Dodge WC-51 for a conversation with Fran Racioppi on his vision to empower CrossFit athletes to better track their workouts while providing CrossFit box owners the ability to manage and organize their processes and clients.

Ameet explains the mental hurdles tech visionaries must overcome to develop a product that requires mass adoption and Fran challenges him to explain why bootstrapping the company has been a top priority and a key ingredient to profitability. Through its multiple services from customer retention to tracking to event planning, Wodify is breaking the mold in fitness software, showing everyone there is no such thing as “gymtimidation” and is now making its mark in Jiu-Jitsu.

Learn more about Wodify on the web or at the 5000+ gyms that trust Wodify to run their business.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Sandlot Jax 2023
2:33 What you learn from starting a career as a janitor at Mars
5:21 From engineering to software consulting
8:00 Overcoming excuses to build Wodify
11:02 How Wodify solves problems for owners and athletes
15:09 Solving the funding the challenges for software companies
18:43 How each Wodify product supports the athlete and owners
20:48 How Jiu-Jitsu dojo’s use Wodify
26:37 Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“I was, believe it or not, a competitive janitor. I would say ‘my toilets are cleaner than yours….and people noticed.’” (4:03)
“You can learn something from anyone, anywhere, in any situation.” (5:16)
“I literally had no business model in mind, I just wanted to see for personal satisfaction could I do it.” (10:03)
“I wanted full control on being able to do what I thought was right.” (16:23)
“The sooner we can get it out there. The sooner we can get the feedback to find out that its a bad idea, the sooner we can stop and pivot.” (20:23)
“Our ultimate vision is to have the best customer retention platform in well-tech.” (26:30)

Ameet’s Three Daily Foundations

Invest in personal time
Be responsible and accountable to those who count on you
Remind yourself how lucky you are

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

DREW's WOD: Jumping In with Project D.R.E.W. & CrossFit Saol

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Hero WODs come in all shapes and sizes; but every CrossFitter knows the greater the burn the stronger the bonds. “DREW” is quickly proving to be one of the most memorable for both its physical challenge and the story behind the workout.

“DREW” is named in honor of CPT Drew Ferguson, who lost his battle with mental health after a distinguished career as a Green Beret in the Army Special Forces. Fran Racioppi sits down with Drew’s cousin Mike Winnen and the owner of CrossFit Saol Clint Weigel to share Drew’s workout, why 13 is so important and what it means to have both a buy-in and buy-out.

All proceeds of DREW go to Project D.R.E.W., a Cleveland-based program bringing Veterans and songwriters together to tell their story through one of the most unique methods ever experienced; creating a song about your life. Fran, Mike and Clint relive Fran’s life changing experience at Project D.R.E.W. captured in last fall’s Episode 80 and tie in his song “I Press On.”

In our battle against mental health struggles, it’s critical to build communities and share in ways that are memorable and long-lasting. If you struggle with mental health related concerns, reach out to Project D.R.E.W., get involved with your local CrossFit gym and strive to change your life one small step at a time. You are not alone.

Join us this July 1st for DREW!

Check out The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome back Project D.R.E.W.

4:16 CrossFit Saol embraces Drew’s WOD

5:44 Designing Drew’s WOD progression of 13

8:08 How CrossFit builds community to strengthen mental health

13:46 All proceeds from Drew’s WOD go to Project D.R.E.W

19:06 Drew’s Song - “I Know A Place”

Quotes:

“It’s probably been in the works in my mind for a few years now; since we lost Drew.” (2:25)
“I just wonder, had he found a community like CrossFit Saol and like at the barn with Project D.R.E.W. What might have been.” (6:21)
“Your suffering with them and then the cause of it is for all you guys to be better and healthier together.” (10:42)
“I do believe, fundamentally, CrossFit is for everyone.” (12:52)
“What we can do is sit and listen, and be present.” (16:07)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s and Compass Workforce Solutions.

Delete The Adjective: Jumping In with Army Ranger LTC Lisa Jaster

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Ranger School is the premier leadership development program in the US Army for tactical level leaders. It’s also the most grueling physical, mental and emotional challenge a Soldier can face. Many will try; but only a few will earn the coveted Ranger tab…a designation that for decades could only be sought after by male soldiers.

In this episode, Fran Racioppi brings back fellow Ranger LTC Lisa Jaster; the third female to ever graduate from US Army Ranger School. Lisa is now the author of Delete The Adjective, A Soldier's Adventures In Ranger School.

Lisa shares her journey as she failed each phase multiple times, only to request to try again. They talk about the importance of setting standards based on the requirements of the job instead of what we think a gender is capable of achieving. Fran defines the importance of a never quit attitude while Lisa shares her quit criteria.

Adjectives live all around us, but only when we choose to use them to describe us instead of define us, is when we truly are ready to lead no matter the challenge.

Special thanks to Longtab Brewing Company for hosting this conversation from San Antonio.

Learn more about Lisa Jaster and pick up your copy of Delete The Adjective today!

Check out The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Delete The Adjective from Long Tab Brewing Company

3:28 Adjectives describe you; they don’t define you

4:15 Why go to Ranger School as the first woman

8:46 The importance of the single standard

12:51 The red tape of gender integration at Ranger School

17:25 Life lessons from Ranger School

23:30 Training leaders through following

Quotes:

“By deleting the adjective I’m not trying to be an ‘it’.” (3:33)
“I didn’t want to prove something, I just wanted to say ‘hey listen, we’ve been serving next to you.” (5:40)
“The military isn’t looking for the fastest. They’re looking for a standard. One standard based on the job that needs to be done.” (11:03)
“Would I want to share a foxhole with this person? Yes or no?” (14:53)
“Those little pieces of adversity give you the tools you need to deal with the big pieces of adversity down the line.” (21:36)
“At Ranger School I wrote out my quit criteria.” (26:33)
“If you quit; even if you never quit anything again; you’re still a quitter.” (27:49)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions, GORUCK and Rhone.

#101: How to Brew Great Beer The Special Forces Way - Longtab Brewing Company Founder Dave Holland

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

The Original Special Forces Regiment needs a beer named The Originals. Then again, so does Det-A, Pineland, The Tribe, and of course the Jedburgh. Fran Racioppi travels to San Antonio to spend the day, and share a Jedburgh beer, with fellow Green Beret and Founder of Longtab Brewing Company Dave Holland.

Dave founded Longtab out of a love for beer after a colossal failure of a home brew and to honor the legacy and lineage of US Army Special Special Forces, the Green Berets. Named after the iconic Special Forces special skill badge, Longtab has quickly become a landing spot for current and former special operators, as well as those looking to step into a history lesson on what it takes to be America’s most elite soldier.

Fran and Dave cover what it takes to brew great beer in a classic German style, how Dave and his team weathered the COVID shutdowns just 66 days after their opening, how to complement great beer with great food and robust coffee, and why Longtab is committed to honoring the legendary Green Berets who gave their lives in defense of freedom.

Learn more about Longtab Brewing at longtabbrewing.com and on social media at @longtabbrewing.

Special thanks to the Green Beret Foundation for supporting the production of this episode. Support the Green Berets of all generations today at greenberetfoundation.org.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Longtab Brewing
2:45 The meaning of the Army Special Forces longtab
4:49 Canning “The Originals” Hefeweizen
5:51 The stories behind the name of each beer
8:52 The brewing process started with a home brew kit
11:18 Building the Longtab team
13:25 Opening the doors 66 days before COVID lockdowns
16:43 What’s it mean to be a Green Beret
20:31 Complementing great beer with great food
22:23 Brewing good coffee next to the beer
24:12 Jedburgh Beer and the legacy of US Special Forces
27:36 Dave’s three foundations to success

Quotes:

“The longtab is the longest special skills tab in the Army.” (3:15)
“They started with the #10 to fool the Russians into thinking that there were nine more groups.” (5:34)
“What we try to do is, at least 4-5 times per year, dedicate a beer to a fallen Green Beret.” (8:07)
“Everything that we put in our beer is all manufactured and made right here in the United States.” (9:58)
“The first beer was done on our kitchen stove. It was a colossal failure.” (10:54)
“The food has become as big a component to this business as beer.” (22:12)
“A lot of people that like good beer also like good coffee.” (22:36)

Dave’s three foundations to success

Monday meetings to coordinate the week
Make a list of to do’s every night
Drink beer!

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s & Compass Workforce Solutions

What's Your Murph?: Jumping In with Dr. Josh Appel on Memorial Day Murph Hero WOD (Sandlot Jax & GORUCK Games 2023 Series)

Sat, 27 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day isn’t just about the BBQ. It’s about honoring and remembering all those who have given their lives in defense of America and our freedom. It’s also an opportunity for some shared suffering on behalf of their sacrifice.

To honor Memorial Day 2023, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sat down with Dr. Josh Appel live from the finals at GORUCK Games to share the story of The Memorial Day Murph Challenge; one of the hardest Hero WODs in the CrossFit arsenal:

The Murph:

1 mile run

100 pull ups

200 push ups

300 squats

1 mile run

*body armor optional

Fran, Jessie and Josh share his emotional story of the rescue of Marcus Luttrell and the recovery of LT. Michael Murphy and GM2 Danny Dietz, as well as the loss of the rescue force in Operation Red Wings II. Josh was instrumental in solidifying Murph as the Memorial Day Hero WOD and explains how to scale it to any fitness level.

Learn more about Memorial Day Murph and honor the fallen this Memorial Day at The Murph Challenge.

Check out The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the finals of GORUCK Games

3:30 Operation Red Wings rescue helicopter is shot down

6:58 The rescue of Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell

14:15 CrossFit’s Murph Hero WOD

18:02 The Michael Murphy Foundation

20:07 Scaling Murph for anybody

Quotes:

“The helicopter that was shot down was part of a rescue force.” (5:10)
“As we’re coming in we brown out.” (8:22)
“We flew back in that night and recovered Mike Murphy and Danny Dietz.” (13:19)
“I looked up the workout and was like, ‘that sounds horrible…let me do it.’” (14:34)
“It gave Memorial Day meaning to me.” (15:04)
“Anybody can do a Murph. You don’t have to be a Navy SEAL.” (20:07)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions and GORUCK.

#100: USS Midway Museum - Founding President & CEO John "Mac" McLaughlin, RADM (ret)

Thu, 18 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

An aircraft carrier is one of America’s greatest symbols of freedom and power. It’s a strategic asset in our national defense arsenal. It’s our greatest projection of combat power. It’s a city at sea. And for RADM (ret) John “Mac” McLaughlin it was a challenge he never expected.

For our milestone Episode 100 of The Jedburgh Podcast, Fran Racioppi took over the Hanger Deck of the USS Midway Museum for a conversation with Mac on the history of the American aircraft carrier, the importance of the US Navy, what it was like to fly anti-submarine helicopters, and what’s next in the battle for naval supremacy.

Mac also shares the story of the USS Midway; for decades America’s flagship carrier and host of many American Navy firsts. He explains his vision for the museum and how he led the team that built it from an empty ship towed into San Diego Harbor to one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States.

The USS Midway was built primarily by women in 1942 and later led the coalition in over 3000 sorties in the 1991 Persian Gulf War. Today the ship is tribute to all who serve America; especially those at sea.

Special thanks to the San Diego Military Advisory Council for their support in producing this episode.

Learn more about the USS Midway and theUSS Midway Museum at midway.org and on social media at @ussmidwaymuseum.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the USS Midway Museum, Freedom and Episode 100
3:28 Building the USS Midway in 17 months by women in 1943
5:21 The USS Midway at war in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and the Cold War
8:27 The many “firsts” of the USS Midway
10:16 Mac’s career in the Navy flying helicopters
14:41 The role of United States Navy in America’s national defense
17:15 The peer-to-peer Naval adversary of the Chinese and Russians
20:58 USS Midway comes to San Diego
26:02 The exhibits of the USS Midway
29:34 The USS Midway Foundation
33:54 Mac’s Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“The Midway represents the transformation of the United States Navy from a battleship centric Navy to an aircraft centric Navy.” (5:08)
“It became the most operationally effective aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific despite the fact it was so old.” (7:29)
“As long as America has a responsibility of maintaining its supremacy as an international power we will need to continue investing in a very strong Navy.” (17:04)
“The day you stop investing in your military resources is the day you can ensure that your country is in jeopardy.” (19:32)
“We had nothing. If you see anything on this ship it wasn’t here when we started.” (23:08)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions & Rhone

#099: Coping with Alzheimer's Disease - Alzheimer's San Diego CEO Eugenia Welch & Clinical Care Specialist Preston Stocking

Wed, 10 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Over 10% of the US population is in some way affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. For the second episode of our San Diego Series, and our 99th long form conversation, Fran Racioppi visits Alzheimer's San Diego to discuss Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

Fran is joined by CEO Eugenia Welch and Clinical Care Specialist Preston Stocking to explore what Alzheimer's disease is, what the symptoms are, and how it impacts both patients and their families. They also cover Alzheimer’s San Diego’s pillars of support including a unique program training law enforcement officers on the signs of dementia and how to best handle affected citizens.

Fran, Eugenia and Preston share their personal stories of coping with loved ones affected by Alzheimer’s. Whether you are someone with a personal connection to Alzheimer's disease or just interested in learning more about this topic, this conversation will provide valuable insights and information that can help all of us in the fight against this dark disease.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s San Diego on alzsd.org and on social media at @alzheimerssd.

Special thanks to the San Diego Military Advisory Council for their support in producing this episode.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Alzheimer’s San Diego
2:10 Alzheimer’s by the numbers
5:53 The progression and stages of Alzheimer’s
8:54 The causes of Alzheimer’s
12:57 The importance of caregiver respite
15:30 Identifying the symptoms of Alzheimers
17:32 Alzheimer’s San Diego Educational Programs
18:56 Training first responders to handle dementia patients
21:42 ASD’s Social Work Programs
24:38 The financial burden of Alzheimer’s
28:50 Patient Care at ASD
33:54 Preparing for the “The Silver Tsunami”
39:48 Eugenia & Preston’s Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

“3% suffer from Alzheimer’s. 10% of people are in some way affected by Alzheimer’s.” (2:56)
“If you can have a healthy heart along the way, that's going to improve your chances of living a longer time.” (8:07)
“Alzheimer’s can get very dark.” (10:07)
“The younger you are when you are diagnosed the quicker you’re going to progress through the stages.” (10:55)
“It’s not that you can’t find your keys…It’s when you have your keys in your hand and you don’t know what they do.’” (15:49)
“Somebody with dementia could present as under the influence of drugs or alcohol.” (19:12)
“The system is not prepared for the wave of older adults who are going to continue to have this disease.” (26:21)
“It’s really important to kind of separate what is the disease and what is still your person.” (31:00)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s & Compass Workforce Solutions

#098: The United States Marine Corps - Sergeant Major Of The Marine Corps Troy Black

Wed, 03 May 2023 08:19:00 GMT

For 247 years the United States Marine Corps has fought and won America’s wars. The Marines carry a history, a tradition and a brand focused on winning…no matter the challenge.

Sergeant Major Troy Black, the 19th Sergeant Major Of The Marine Corps joins Fran Racioppi from the Marine Corps Recruiting Depot San Diego Museum for a Jedburgh Podcast exclusive look at what it means to be a Marine past, present and future.

They cover Sergeant Major Black’s 35-year career leading Marines, Talent Management 2030, Force Design 2030, the lessons of the Global War on Terror, and the Marines’ most important mission; returning high-caliber Veterans to America’s civilian workforce.

Whether you were a Marine, want to become a Marine, or never considered the Marines, you will be ready to join after this conversation!

Special thanks to the San Diego Military Advisory Council for their support in producing this episode.

Learn more about SMMC Troy Black at marines.mil and on social media at @19thsmmc.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Marine Corps Recruiting Depot San Diego Museum
2:30 Joining the Marine Corps after Vietnam
4:17 The mission of the United States Marine Corps
6:55 Talent Management 2030
14:35 The relationship between noncommissioned officers and commissioned officers
21:12 Integration of females into the Marine Corps
23:52 The lessons of The Global War on Terror
27:27 Force Design 2030
32:53 Protecting the mental health of our Marines
41:18 Returning Veterans to the civilian workforce
45:20 The next generation of Marine
52:54 Are you ready to be a United States Marine?
55:49 SMMC Black’s Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“Send the Marine Corps. We come with our own logistics, our own aviation, our own artillery, our own ground forces and components to do things now.” (5:17)
“You have to have a competent force that when it has to be called upon, can win…period.” (9:14)
“The private that graduated today is not taught to follow. They’re taught to lead.” (11:37)
“Don’t ever deny me an opportunity. You don’t get to determine if I can do it or not.” (23:17)
“There are only three organizations in any weapons engagement zone in the littorals; it’s Marines, it’s submarines, and it’s SOF.” (32:04)
“Mental fitness. Social fitness. Behavioral fitness. Spiritual fitness…You can’t have one without the other.” (35:58)
“We have to focus more on how to tell people how to be in a team right now.” (49:29)
“We’re looking for something. It’s someone who wants to win…only.” (54:21)

SMMC Troy Black’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

Eat to keep the body fit
Workout to stay strong and create time to think
Read to learn from the past, think and grow

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s & Compass Workforce Solutions

Combating Land Mines and Human Trafficking in Ukraine: Jumping In with Mitzi Perdue

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Abrams tanks, landmines, human trafficking, war crimes and economic collapse. This is the state of the Ukraine-Russia war 14+ months since it started.

Fran Racioppi sits down with Mitzi Perdue, a renowned author, speaker, and philanthropist, who shares her experiences of visiting Ukraine to see firsthand the devastation landmines have brought to the country and its citizens.

Mitzi Perdue, also joined Fran on Episode 19 to share her entrepreneurial spirit garnered from her father, the founder of Sheraton Hotels, and her late husband, Frank Perdue, founder of Perdue Farms.

Mitzi most recently traveled to Ukraine to donate 18 vehicles to the police, tour Chernobyl, and raise awareness, and money, to support Ukrainians as they fight for their existence. She also explains how human trafficking is responsible for the abduction of thousands of Ukrainian children, as she believes Russia continues to suffer from population decline.

Learn more about Mitzi Perdue at https://mitziperdue.com/. Visit DonorSee.com/ukraine to donate and support her mission to free Ukraine of landmines. Mitzi is matching the first $100,000 donated.

Check out The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome back to The Jedburgh Podcast & getting involved in Ukraine

4:41 Why the police are critical to the war in Ukraine

7:29 America’s contribution to Ukraine is greater than the rest of the world combined

10:11 Why America needs to provide Abrams tanks to Ukraine

12:20 Landmines and cluster bombs litter the farmland of Ukraine

14:35 Why human trafficking is widespread in Ukraine

17:45 Supporting The HALO Trust

22:36 How does the war end?

Quotes:

- “They do this because it magnifies the demoralization of the local populace.” (5:30)

- “The US’s involvement is double all of the EU countries combined.” (8:52)

- “Ukraine right now is the most heavily mined country in the world or in history.” (10:00)

- “40% of the land can’t be farmed because of the mines.” (13:49)

- “Russia is in terminal decline; there just aren’t enough babies being born.” (15:48)

- “The goal is $300,000 to go to the HALO Trust, which is the oldest and largest land mine clearing organization in the world.” (19:29)

- “I think that Russia’s gonna fall apart economically.” (26:20)

- “If we negotiate an end, the 56,000 war crimes that we’re aware of would probably be negotiated away. I want defeat.” (27:45)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s & Compass Workforce Solutions.

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s & Compass Workforce Solutions

#097: Eating for Performance: Nutrition Coach Jenn Ryan (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Nutrition is said to be the number one ingredient in performance. It’s also the hardest to achieve, maintain and too often get excited about. Performance Nutrition Coach Jenn Ryan is changing the way we think about what we consume.

In this final TYR Wodapalooza 2023 episode, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with Jenn live from the Modballs booth, to recap the weekend and dig deep into all aspects of what…and how…we eat.

Plus they dig into some Modballs sharing how these nutrient-packed 20-gram energy balls are replacing conventional energy drinks full of the words you can’t pronounce.

Follow Jenn Ryan on Instagram at jenn_ryan. Get involved with CrossFit at crossfit.com.

Follow Jessie Graff on Instagram and Facebook @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Wodapalooza Day 4 & the Modballs booth
4:45 Why CrossFit is for everyone
9:39 Jenn’s transition from an ER nurse to nutrition coaching
16:20 Silencing the inner critic
20:58 Celebrating the small victories
24:05 Nutrition or fad diets
29:25 The importance of fat
34:20 Structured vs unstructured eating
38:11 The dangers of under-eating
46:38 Training with Modballs
51:53 Jenn’s Three Foundations For Success

Quotes:

“You feel like you’re at a nightclub just fitnessing.” (3:30)
“CrossFit has taught me…is what my body can do.” (6:18)
“Teaching people to be strong, and to feel strong; is just awesome.” (8:10)
“Are you purposeful moving from one thing to the next?” (22:11)
“When people do very very low fat, they also end up being low calorie.” (27:43)
“When things are unstructured, it’s like the rest of life, it’s very chaotic.” (35:43)
“This is how I would make an energy bar at home. I would want to add all these things.” (47:36)

Jenn’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Get outside and walk the dogs first
Start my morning with chocolate greens powder
Eat the exact same breakfast

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#096: CrossFit - CEO Don Faul (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Constantly varied, functional movements executed at high intensity. That’s CrossFit. Simple in definition. Complex in the way it’s changed the fitness industry. CrossFit’s not a sport. It’s a lifestyle that has dominated the way elite athletes train, all the while crowning the Fittest on Earth.

Don Faul became the CEO of CrossFit last fall and at the tail end of his 120-day assessment, he sat down with Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff for a conversation live from the TYR Wodapalooza stage. Don shares his transition from Recon Marine to tech, to wearables, to fitness.

They cover the fundamentals of the sport, how it has advanced the way we think about our health, how to become CrossFit certified, and Don’s vision for the CrossFit brand in 2023 and beyond.

Follow Don Faul on Instagram at donfaul. Get involved with CrossFit at crossfit.com.

Follow Jessie Graff on Instagram and Facebook @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Read the full episode transcription on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Wodapalooza day 4
3:55 Lessons learned as a US Marine
7:40 Building careers at Google, Pinterest & Athos
10:22 Becoming the CrossFit CEO
13:50 CrossFit is for everyone
15:36 Qualifying as a CrossFit coach
17:54 CrossFit Fundamentals and scaling
21:35 CrossFit’s vision for 2023 and beyond
26:34 Building a strong and vibrant culture at CrossFit HQ
28:04 Achieving CrossFit Certifications
36:29 Don’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Quotes:

“There are so many moments of inspiration that you get to see and feel first hand.” (3:07)
“As a leader your job is actually to work for and support your people.” (6:04)
“I walked into that workout and got absolutely humbled. I came in dead last in the workout.” (11:45)
“Constantly varied, functional movements executed at high intensity. That is CrossFit.” (17:16)
“Any CrossFit workout can be adjusted to be performed by any athlete independent of their level of fitness or maybe mobility restrictions.” (19:15)
“We can do more to strengthen that partnership and support our affiliate owners.” (24:24)
“I think the higher level goal that we are all working in service of, is changing more lives.” (27:40)
“In five years CrossFit is the largest force for health and performance globally.” (31:17)
“There’s nothing that builds human connection than shared adversity and support through hard circumstances.” (33:30)

Don’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Set intention for the day
Pack my gym bag for the next morning
Sit down for dinner with my family

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

Jumping In with Nick Mathew: 2022 CrossFit Games Rookie of the Year (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 11:33:23 GMT

How do you become the CrossFit Games Rookie of the Year? For Coach Nick Mathew it took setting a goal, maintaining a high standard and loving the burn! Nick joins Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff live from the Modballs booth at TYR Wodaplooza for a conversation on transitioning from olympic lifting to CrossFit.

Today Nick’s a CrossFit affiliate owner where he trains not only himself, but all those looking to push themselves mentally and physically. He shares his tips for training to compete with the world’s best and how his daily dedication to training, even when he didn’t want to, has given him a real shot at the podium in the 2023 CrossFit Games.

Follow Nick Mathew on Instagram at coachnmathew.

Follow Jessie Graff on Instagram and Facebook @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to the Modballs booth
1:50 Getting into CrossFit
4:05 Nick’s standards to achieve Rookie of the Year
7:20 TYR Wodapalooza vs CrossFit Games
8:35 How to love the burn
10:33 Nick’s 2023 goals
11:32 Becoming a CrossFit affiliate owner
15:01 Rocking the crop top
16:22 Nick’s three foundations

Quotes:

“It took seven years before I was able to make it to the CrossFit Games; and it’s been a grind ever since.” (2:48)
“It’s really kind of what’s in between the ears and the story you tell yourself every day when you get to the gym.” (4:25)
“You always build it up in your head that it’s gonna be worse than it actually is.” (8:58)
“I want to podium at the games this year.” (10:36)

Nick’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Hold myself to a higher standard
Discipline in my routine
Be a good person

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

Jumping In on The Banking Crisis with Sultan Meghji - First Chief Innovation Officer at FDIC

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Is the banking system in America collapsing? The recent closure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, combined with the loss of confidence and sale of Credit Suisse has sent shockwaves through the global financial system.

Fran Racioppi brings back Episode 91 guest and former Chief Innovation Officer at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Sultan Meghji, to answer the questions we are all asking: why are banks failing? Should we be concerned about our money? Are taxpayers footing the bill? When should we worry?

Learn more about Sultan Meghji on LinkedIn and Twitter @sultanmeghji.

Check out The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome back to The Jedburgh Podcast

-1:51 Don’t worry about your checking account

-4:26 The banking crisis interest rates explained

-6:37 Mortgage backed securities and the changes since the 2008 financial crisis

-8:14 The failure at Credit Suisse

-9:48 The role of the FDIC

-14:10 Are taxpayers footing the bill?

-15:32 What will cause a run on the banking system?

-17:45 Why Sultan only fears defaulting on the debt ceiling

Quotes:

-”Don’t worry about your checking account….Don’t stress about it. It doesn’t matter if it has $1 in it or a billion dollars in it.” (2:02)

-”Having the single largest increase in federal reserve interest rates in human history has caused a tremendous imbalance in a subset of the banks in the United States.” (3:15)

-”We don’t have a banking crisis. We have a psychological issue right now.” (3:43)

-”You can trace the balance sheet problems for Silicon Valley Bank directly back to the increase in Federal Reserve interest rate hikes.” (6:27)

-”When the US Government took it over, it just took them a few days to reboot the computer.” (11:42)

-”You should have money in one of the big systemically important banks. You should have money in a credit union. And you should have money in a midsize regional or community bank.” (12:57)

-”Literally the only thing that I would ever worry about…is if somehow the US defaulted on the debt ceiling.” (17:45)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness

#095: Mastery Development & NESTRE -2x NFL Pro Bowl Tight End Julius Thomas (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Whole health requires a balance of physical, mental, and emotional strength; but which of these buckets do we focus on the most? In this Saturday sunset conversation live from TYR Wodapalooza, Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with 2-time NFL Pro Bowl Tight End Julius Thomas to talk about his journey from the football field to entrepreneurship to a PhD in Psychology.

Julius shares his three buckets of wellness along with his Five Keys to Success: Commitment, Discipline, Guidance, Quality of Support and Resilience. He shares the importance of training your brain just like we train our bodies for elite performance; and how his new app NESTRE Health and Performance is improving the cognitive capability of leaders at every age. Julius also discusses his journey in building Mastery Development where he coaches others to follow their dreams and take action no matter the challenge.

Follow Julius Thomas on Instagram at Julius_Thomas and on LinkedIn.

Follow Jessie Graff on Instagram and Facebook @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Wodapalooza
4:06 Why elite performers seek “mastery” of their craft
10:10 Working hard to go from college basketball to the NFL
17:45 Transitioning from elite performance to being a novice
20:25 Balancing physical, mental and emotional strength
25:48 Training the brain at NESTRE
36:03 Five keys to success
41:18 Julius’s three daily foundations

Quotes:

“That’s what a lot of high performing people have in common. They’re trying to master what they do.” (5:40)
“I just don’t like to fail.” (6:35)
“Sometimes you gotta get laughed at to get to where you’re going.” (12:18)
“The better you get at one thing, the harder it is to be a beginner at another thing.” (17:02)
“The climb from novice to master; you’ve got to pay the dues all over again.” (18:39)
“If we don’t have whole health we’re not showing up as the best version we can possibly be.” (23:44)
“We want to give people access to tools that are gonna help them better understand the way their mind works.” (29:55)
“Give your miracles a chance to happen.” (45:15)

Julius’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Dream big in the morning
Never make excuses
Don’t procrastinate

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#094: Shaylin Laure - Wodapalooza 2023 Women's Rx Champion & 2x World's Fittest Law Enforcement Officer (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

What does it take to become the World’s Fittest law Enforcement Officer…twice? What about the World’s Fittest Veteran? An FBI Agent? Or the first female to win the Honor Graduate award at the US Army Infantry Officer Basic Course under a single standard for men and women.

Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with Shaylin Laure for a Wodapalooza 2023 conversation on overcoming stereotypes and resistance from superiors who didn’t believe women could keep up with men. In this Day 2 conversation Shaylin also lays out her plans for the CrossFit Games and explains how she intended to win the Women’s Rx…which she did!

Follow Shaylin on IG at Shaylin_Laure.

Follow Jessie on Instagram and FB @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Competing in Women’s Rx at Wodapalooza 2023
6:13 Gaining perspective on training and winning
9:18 Why start CrossFit
11:01 Joining the Infantry as a woman
14:33 Bridging the gender divide in the US Army Infantry
22:23 Jessie Graff on overcoming the gender gap in sports
24:32 Finding the balance between training, nutrition and law enforcement
28:30 Using Modballs in training

Quotes:

“My job puts into perspective competing.” (6:13)
“Making it to the games is not the win this year. Winning the games is the win.” (8:54)
“You want to have a purpose when you’re in the gym because it’s gonna make your workout so much more productive.” (10:39)
“When I said Infantry he just laughed. There were no words.” (15:42)
“No one cares if you’re a male or a female. You either meet that standard or you don’t.” (18:59)
“I just have to be more disciplined, and dedicated and scientific about all of my training.” (23:07)
“Modballs are a Godsend. They are clean fuel. They have phenomenal ingredients but it tastes like a candybar.” (28:30)

Shaylin’s Three Daily Foundations For Success

Have fun
Tell people you love them
Love what your doing

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

Jumping In with Jumptwist Ninja: Founder Christina Gambino, 12x Ninja Warrior Flip Rodriguez & Co-Host Jessie Graff (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Entrepreneurs come in all shapes and sizes and from every background. Some of them are even ninjas! Fran Racioppi & Jessie Graff sit down with Christina Gambino, collegiate gymnast, turned ninja warrior, turned Founder and CEO of Jumptwist Ninja. 12x Ninja Warrior Flip Rodriguez and Jumptwist coach joins in too!

Christina shares the vision behind building an industry-leading ninja gym from the lessons in hard work, commitment, grind and willingness to get her hands dirty she learned as a ninja warrior. She started the gym by criss-crossing the country in a RV visiting the best ninja gyms to figure out her business model. In this conversation she tells Fran and Jessie (and the world) about her plan to franchise Jumptwist for the very first time.

Christina lives her motto “Be Strong and Courageous” every day. Listen to our conversation with Christina and Flip from the mats at Jumptwist Ninja in Boca Raton on your favorite podcast platforms. Watch the full video version with the newest obstacles in full effect on YouTube.

Watch Fran make it up the ninja wall while Jessie and Christina show him the gymnast championship pose.

Follow Christina on IG at christinagambino72 and learn more about her at christinagambino.com. Get involved with Jumptwist Ninja and train with the sport’s best at jumptwistninja.com and @jumptwistninja on IG.

Follow Jessie on Instagram and FB @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Jumptwist Ninja
4:47 Christina becomes a Ninja Warrior
13:19 Transitioning from elite athlete to entrepreneur
14:48 Building a culture at Jumptwist
18:08 Franchising Jumptwist Ninja
23:58 Launching the “Levels” program

Quotes:

“I bought an RV. I drove around the country. Went to every gym.” (6:46)
“Building this gym was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life.” (13:56)
“What we’re really trying to do is create character, discipline, and where things get hard you push forward no matter what.” (15:27)
“Being courageous is not having fear; but it’s having the fear and doing it anyway.” (16:20)
“It’s been two years and I am going to be launching my franchise.” (18:22)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#093: The Man Behind The Mask - Ninja Warrior Flip Rodriguez (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Ninja Warrior Flip Rodriguez was The Man Behind the Mask, until he chose to face his past and flip the script on his life. Fran Racioppi and Jessie Graff sit down with Flip to talk all things American Ninja Warrior, how to compete on the sport’s biggest obstacles and what it takes to win when you know little about the course of your competition.

They also share Flip’s story of childhood sexual abuse, the difficulty of accepting what’s happening, the dangers of normalization, and how he eventually took a stand and walked out. Flip shows us how to take charge of our own lives even when it seems we are all alone in our fight.

Listen to our conversation with Flip Rodriguez from Jumptwist Ninja in Boca Raton on your favorite podcast platform. Watch the full video version as Jessie trains Fran how to become a ninja on YouTube.

Learn more about Flip on Instagram @youngflip7. Read his book The Man Behind The Mask and flip the script on your life. Get involved in the fight against child abuse at fightchildabuse.org and support Flip’s partnership with the Barbara Sinatra Children Center Foundation.

Follow Jessie on Instagram and FB @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Jumptwist Ninja
7:01 Preparing for a Ninja Warrior competition
11:53 Flip finds the mask
15:43 Flip takes off the mask
23:41 Flip’s battle with child sexual abuse
31:48 How Flip took action to end his abuse
42:40 Flip describes why consistency is the key to performance
47:55 “Absolute Best” must be the standard
54:04 Educating for child protection
58:30 Flip’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

“Life doesn’t care what age you are. Life is going to teach you a lesson. A valuable lesson. It’s gonna knock you down on the ground. You have to learn to get back up.” (6:28)
“Having a mask is like Peter Parker and Spiderman. Everyone loves Spiderman but nobody really cares about Peter Parker.” (13:02)
“It made me feel powerful, confident and feel like I could literally take on the world.” (14:24)
“I felt so alone the entire time growing up…I had to be a man, not say anything.” (22:52)
“Once you make a decision on who you want to be, what you want to do and how you want to do, life just gets out of your way.” (29:33)
“Every moment that I spend depressed is a moment that I’ll never get back.” (38:18)

Flip’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

Lead by example
Be real with who I am in the mirror
Lay down at night with a clear conscious

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#092: US Army Recruiting Command - COL Stephen Battle & Author Of Meathead MAJ Allison Brager (TYR Wodapalooza 2023 Series)

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 11:06:00 GMT

TYR Wodapalooza brings the best of the fitness world to downtown Miami for four days of competition, sun, and neon lights. Ninja Warrior & Stuntwoman Jessie Graff joins Fran Racioppi for eight episodes with some of the most elite athletes on the stage today.

In this series launch, they cover US Army Recruiting with Brigade Commander Colonel Stephen Battle and Major Allison Brager, the chief science officer at US Army JFK Special Warfare Center.

Allison shares the importance of sleep in building elite performance and is the author of Meathead: Unraveling the Athletic Brain. Steve explains why fitness is a critical component of leadership and building high functioning teams, and how the Army is developing thought leaders; not just people who standby waiting to be told what to do.

Take a listen to the conversation, then tune into our YouTube channel to watch as Jessie and Fran workout with the US Army Warrior Fitness Team.

Learn more about Allison Brager @docjockzzz.

Find out how you can become one of our nation’s most important assets and impact the world at goarmy.com/wza.

Follow Jessie on Instagram and FB @jessiegraffpwr.

Click here or use code JED for $10 off your first order of Modballs.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to TYR Wodapalooza!
5:30 Why fitness is important to the US Army
10:27 The Army’s focus on developing thought leaders
15:39 What COL Battle and MAJ Brager look for in their leaders
18:38 Using sleep to chase excellence
22:12 The Peak Alert App
22:45 The difference between the athletic brain and the normal brain
25:18 Using our Circadian Rhythm to maximize performance
34:08 The effects of sleep deprivation & high operational tempo
40:00 Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

“We have to engage with American youth at their level, at areas and places that they congregate.” (8:40)
“You don’t have to be an elite fitness athlete to join the military.” (8:23)
“We’re not here to break you down, or embarrass you, or scold you. We’re here to build you up.” (9:22)
“We’re looking for fit, resilient soldiers of character.” (16:19)
“Sleep is the performance enhancing drug.” (18:54)
“If the soldiers are getting about 30% less sleep, they’re only 50% combat effective. It’s an exponential relationship.” (19:32)
“They don’t have to think about the complex movements that they have to do. They just act.” (24:05)
“Shift Work takes anywhere from 10 to 15 years off your life.” (34:41)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Rhone, Modballs, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#91: AI, Web3, Cybersecurity, Quantum Computing & The Meaning Of Tech - FDIC's 1st Chief Innovation Officer Sultan Meghji

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Tech seems to drive our lives these days. We can't do anything without some sort of device in our hand, at our fingertips, and even on our faces. But what does the tech industry actually do?

Fran Racioppi asks Sultan Meghji for his opinion on all things tech. Sultan was the first Chief Innovation Officer at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, he's a Scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a Fellow at the George Mason National Security Institute, a Member of the Bretton Woods Committee, and currently a Professor in the graduate programs at Duke University's Pratt Engineering School teaching AI, Web3 & Cybersecurity.

They cover how FINTECH changed the banking industry and why Sultan’s four innovation themes of Inclusion, Resilience, Amplification and Future are critical to implementing sustainable technology solutions in any business. Plus they cover how technology is being used in America’s peer-to-peer competition with China.

Learn more about him on LinkedIn and Twitter @sultanmeghji.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Washington, DC
5:00 What is tech and the technology revolution
10:19 Leading technology at FDIC
21:51 How FINTECH has advanced the banking industry
27:53 Sultan’s Four Innovation Themes: #1 Inclusion
30:38 #2 Resilience
35:13 #3 Amplification
37:32 #4 Future
40:27 How technology will enable competition with China
56:11 The status of cybersecurity in America
1:01:07 Banking competition
1:04:53 The next big tech innovation
1:06:49 Three Foundations

Quotes:

“We use tech and technology as a placeholder relative to how the caveman first had tools.” (5:24)
“I fundamentally believe that humans plus technology are a different species than humans without technology.” (5:49)
“We’ve started removing people from the processes of our civilization.” (5:32)
“Starbucks would be a multi-hundred billion dollar bank if you just thought about the app as a bank.” (13:06)
“Anybody who says they can predict the future has no idea what they’re doing.” (37:36)
“I want the United States to continue to be the backbone of the global financial system.” (39:10)
“By the time we get to 2040-2050, all the telecommunications infrastructure globally will be Chinese.” (45:08)
“It’s always in cyber going to be easier to be an offensive actor than a defensive actor.” (58:11)

Sultan’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

Get really good sleep
Learn something new and meaningful
Do something to get tired

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#090: Call Your Mother Deli - Founder Andrew Dana

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Call Your Mother! Probably one of the most common phrases many of us have heard or thought about sometime in our lives. It's also one of the fast-growing delis in America and one of Bon Appetit's 50 Best New Restaurants In America.

Fran Racioppi sits down with Founder Andrew Dana to discuss his journey from community banking and window sales to purchasing a pizza oven and a truck on Ebay. Today, Timber Pizza is Andrew's other Bon Appetit ranked restaurant.

They cover the ups and downs of what it feels like to follow your dreams and forge your own path. They talk about the risks entrepreneurs take to develop their product, their team and their value. And they also share how that one event, the one customer, the one meeting can be the single point in time that launches our whole plan and puts us on the map.

Visit Call Your Mother Deli and Timber Pizza the next time you're in DC. Find them both on Instagram at callyourmotherdeli and timberpizzaco. Learn more about their story at callyourmotherdeli.com and timberpizza.com.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to prep time at Timber Pizza
5:50 Eating pizza for market research
7:15 What makes a great pizza?
8:17 From community banking to buying a pizza truck
16:23 Dani joins the team
19:30 Call Your Mother and marketing a bagel deli
26:44 Buying local
28:23 Taking the bank account to $0
32:07 Why split tips
33:22 Scaling to Denver and the Keys to Future Success
37:31 Andrew’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“I at least had this moment where I was like, ok I don’t have to go to culinary school to figure out how to make pizza. It’s not rocket science.” (7:00)
“Let’s just buy a pizza oven and we’ll figure it out.” (9:39)
“We were just relentless in showing up. I truly believe if you show up enough, good things start to happen. You make your own luck.” (11:30)
“Don’t have failure to launch. Start. And then just run through every fricken wall that there is.” (13:17)
“Either the food and the service is good enough to come back, or it’s not.” (24:32)
“We’re gonna pay you all as much as we can until the bank account goes to zero.” (29:34)
“In 2022, when you can get anything delivered to your couch, people are coming to us because it’s an experience.”
“Never forget who your road dogs are. Who’s helped you get to this place.” (37:13)

Andrew’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

Meditate aggressively
Exercise aggressively
Eat healthy…but save room for pizza and bagels in moderation!

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#089: Clarity In Crisis: Leadership Lessons From The CIA - Marc Polymeropoulos

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

The CIA, and any organization for that matter, needs dynamic and impactful leaders that drive results, take care of people and accomplish the mission, when failure is never an option.

Fran Racioppi is joined by one of the CIA's most impactful leaders. Marc Polymeropoulos served 26 years in the CIA leading operations across Europe, Eurasia, Afghanistan, Iraq and many of the world's most dangerous places. Marc recently released his book Clarity In Crisis: Leadership Lessons From The CIA in which he lays out what it takes to inspire and get the best from others; even when asked to do the seemingly impossible.

Fran challenges Marc to show us how to implement his nine strategies for leading when we don't always have all the answers but we have to take action.

Today Marc also fights the biggest challenge of his life after he was attacked by Pulsed Electromagnetic Energy in a Russian hotel in 2017. Known as Havana Syndrome, these attacks have been reported all over the world against American diplomatic personnel, with years of investigation but no consensus as to the reason for the onset of victims' medical conditions.

Learn more aboutMarc Polymeropoulos at marcpolymeropoulos.com and on Twitter @mpolymer.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 The CIA, Jedburghs, Boston Red Sox and the mission of the CIA
10:58 Marc decides to join the CIA and defines leadership
15:50 Developing a values system is the start of leadership
18:10 The Glue Guys
21:45 The difference between failure, mistakes and quitting
26:24 The Process Monkey
31:37 Humility is best served warm
35:05 Why leaders have to win an Oscar
39:00 Leaders create a family within their teams
42:23 Leaders are teachers first
47:55 Employ the Dagger to recognize others
50:12 Bringing Clarity to Crisis
52:24 Havana Syndrome
1:00:24 Marc’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Quotes:

“When we talk about the mission it’s providing information to policymakers, but you do it in such a way where honesty and integrity is the foundation.” (10:24)
“There is a huge distinction between failing, that’s gonna happen; but failure is quitting.” (22:45)
“People remember three things. They can’t remember nine.” (26:49)
“If you think too highly of yourself, I think you’re gonna make mistakes.” (34:02)
“I was crapping my pants. I thought I was going to die that day. I was terrified.” (36:17)
“I woke up in the middle of the night with the room spinning, splitting migraine, tinnitus, which is ringing in my ears, Vertigo…" (53:48)

Marc’s Three Daily Foundations to Success: The Combat Leadership Chassis-focus on what you can control

Coffee
Hydrate
Nutrition
Sleep
Exercise

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#088: Hostage US: Rescued Hostage Jessica Buchanan & Executive Director Liz Cathcart

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:00:00 GMT

About 200 Americans are taken hostage or wrongfully detained each year across the globe. Fran Racioppi traveled to Old Town Alexandria for a conversation on keeping America's promise to its citizens with former hostage Jessica Buchanan and Hostage US Executive Director Liz Cathcart.

Jessica shares her story of being kidnapped by some of the very children she went to Somalia to educate. She explains how she coped with detention and complete loss of control over her life, including her last night in captivity that went from a surreal quiet, to gunfire, to rescue by Navy SEAL Team 6.

Liz shares the four pillars of support Hostage US provides. She describes the difficulty reintegration brings and how Hostage US supplies the necessary resources to help all involved cope with redefining their lives after captivity.

Pick up a copy of Jessica's book, Impossible Odds and her new book Deserts to Mountaintops. Follow her on social media @jessicabuchanan and on the web at jessicabuchanan.com.

Go to hostageus.org to support American hostages, detainees, and their families, as they cope with captivity and reintegration.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Old Town Alexandria
4:44 The mission of Hostage US
8:55 Africa Jess
13:20 The first hours of captivity
21:50 What gave captives and families strength
28:28 Rescued by SEAL Team 6
37:19 The challenges of reintegration
44:04 Hostage US 2023 goals
45:27 Deserts to Mountaintops
47:11 Liz and Jess share their three daily foundations

Quotes:

“Hostage US is a NGO. We support families of Americans taken hostage abroad or wrongfully detained by state actors.” (5:50)
“The cases that are particularly impactful and challenging to manage are those terrorist and wrongful detention cases that last for a long time.” (8:08)
“Our car was overtaken by armed men…and that moment, it changed the rest of my life.” (13:13)
“Somewhere I remembered that if I lived through the first 48 hours then they probably weren’t going to kill me. (15:06)
“I knew I needed IV’s. I needed antibiotics. I needed a doctor.” (30:39)
“For many of us we feel like we have to come back and we have to start all over.” (39:44)
“I’m really committed to supporting and empowering women to reclaim their voices.” (46:20)

Jessica’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Maintain a Sacred Start
Prayer, journal and visualize
Display gratitude

Liz’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Hydrate
Know your limitations and bring in experts
Over-communicate

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

#087: Warrior Diplomat - Florida Congressman Mike Waltz

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Leadership requires the perfect balance of strength, compassion and unity. For this episode Fran Racioppi traveled to Capitol Hill to sit down with Congressman Mike Waltz; the first Green Beret ever elected to Congress. He represents Florida's 6th District and is the author of Warrior Diplomat: A Green Beret's Battles From Washington To Afghanistan.

The Congressman and Fran define the term Warrior Diplomat and what it means to balance raw power with statesmanship. They break down the division surrounding the 2022 election cycle and provide a first look into America's 188th Congress; a Congress which will contain over 90 Veterans - the most since the post-Vietnam era.

Learn more about Congressman Mike Waltz at waltz.house.gov and on social media @repmichaelgwaltz.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media. Watch the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

0:00 Welcome to Capitol Hill
5:27 Defining Warrior Diplomat and building coalitions
9:51 Building a long term national defense strategy to win
15:36 The strategic impact of Green Berets in business
22:32 Becoming the first Green Beret in Congress
25:56 How we reduce hostility in Congress and between parties
28:36 The top priorities of the new Congress and the threat of China
36:17 Lightning Round on domestic policy

Quotes:

“It’s about building coalitions. It’s about having a high emotional IQ. It’s about influencing others. It's about aligning your interests.” (9:14)
“In societies where women are accepted and thriving in businesses and politics, in civil society, you don’t tend to have an overwhelming extremism problem. (12:19)
“We like to find our friends who take care of our enemies for us.” (15:28)
“In the 1970’s…3/4 of the Congress had all served. The number has gone from 75% to 15% today.” (23:05)
“It is a record low number of Veterans in Congress and I think that explains a lot of the record amount of disfunction.” (23:21)
“Being a politician isn’t the most important thing we’ve ever done. Taking men and women to combat, leading, is. And bringing them home.” (26:37)
“If you were willing to sacrifice yourself at 18 years old I think you’d be able to sacrifice some grief for taking a vote that may be controversial or may move the country in the right direction.” (28:25)
"The thing with the CCP is they have the ability to defeat us economically way before it comes to any kind of military conflict.” (35:45)
“You cannot have a sovereign nation without borders.” (38:07)

Congressman Waltz’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

Read to be proficient on the issues
Display humility
Be worthy of those who have sacrificed
And…always look cool!

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness & Compass Workforce Solutions

Jumping In with Wounded Warrior Project & NYC Department of Veterans Services at the NYC Veterans Day Parade

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Here we are in a world without a recognized American conflict. And there we were, on the red carpet of the NYC Veterans Day Parade in the back of the Dodge WC-51, when Fran Racioppi and Sarah Apgar and were joined by two of our nation’s most important organizations in the transition of our Veterans to civilian life.

In this third of three episodes covering the NYC Veterans Day Parade, Fran and Sarah talk to Wounded Warrior Project CEO LTG Mike Linnington and Commissioner James Hendon who is leading NYC Department of Veterans Services.

They cover the resources their respective organizations are bringing to our Veterans through programs focused on recruitment, entrepreneurship, mental health, and medical care. Both Wounded Warrior Project and NYC Department of Veterans’ Services set the example for how non-profits and our communities are embracing our Veteran population and the skills they bring to our civilian workforce.

For more Veterans Day coverage find our two previous episodes with CBS’s SEAL Team lead actor David Boreanaz, Grand Marshall of the parade Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Vince Patton, and NYC’s most famous entertainer the Naked Cowboy!

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to the WC-51 LTG(R) Mike Linnington

-4:00 Everyday is Veterans Day for Wounded Warrior Project

-5:22 What our nation needs in it’s military leaders

-7:44 Bringing Veterans together

-8:55 Welcome Commissioner James Hendon

-10:27 The priorities of NYC Department of Veterans Services

-14:40 Creating opportunities for our Veterans

-17:36 Infantalizing our Veterans

Quotes:

- “Everyday for us is Veterans Day.” (4:06)

- ‘We have incredible technology but leadership at the end of the day is the force multiplier that others don’t have.” (6:30)

- “Folks won’t show up for a mental health appointment but they will show up to regain that sense of cohesion and camaraderie they had in the military.” (7:49)

- “New York City is the only city in the country with its own Veterans Services agency.” (10:54)

- “Our women Veterans is the fastest growing demographic of Veterans.” (14:09)

- “It’s important that we not infantalize our Veterans.” (17:36)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, GORUCK, Retro Fitness, Just Ice Tea, Rhone, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions

Jumping In with Naked Cowboy at the NYC Veterans Day Parade

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Here we are, or there we were, in the final few minutes of setting up the 1944 Dodge WC-51 before the start of the NYC Veterans Day Parade when the Naked Cowboy Jumped In for a quick chat with Fran Racioppi and Sarah Apgar. He’s been a staple of Times Square and NYC biggest events for decades. A true patriot at heart, he rocks his guitar playing your favorite tune to basically whatever comes to his mind.

Naked Cowboy shared his story from modeling on the beach in LA to posing with tourists in Times Square rain, snow or shine; and always in nothing more than a clean set of tighty whities and a cowboy hat.

Take a listen to our conversation on your favorite podcast platform, and check out the video version of this conversation and all our episodes on YouTube.

This is the second of three episodes recorded live from the red carpet at the NYC Veterans Day Parade, so make sure you check out our others episodes with CBS’s SEAL Team lead actor David Boreanaz, Grand Marshall of the parade Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Vince Patton, Wounded Warrior Project CEO LTG Mike Linnington and Commissioner James Hendon who is leading NYC Department of Veterans Services.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to the parade Naked Cowboy

-3:55 The Naked Cowboy’s family history of military service

-4:53 Naked Cowboy’s advice to the kids

-6:01 How Robert Burck became the Naked Cowboy

-8:49 Arrested in 35 other cities before getting to NYC

-9:19 Naked Cowboy’s Three Foundations to Success

Quotes:

- “I want to do the right thing at all time.” (4:15)

- “Get a pair of underwear. Take the easy way out like me!.” (5:08)

- “Two days ago was the 24th anniversary in Times Square. Every single day, winter, spring, summer, fall.” (5:37)

- “I literally go out all day searching for an opportunity to make a big splash.” (6:42)

-”My whole life is wrapped around being here every single day and it’s a 24-hour a day job.” (8:33)

-”I was arrested in 35 other cities before I got here.” (8:49)

Naked Cowboy’s Three Foundations to Success

-Stay focused

-Train

-Live the experience and execute well

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, GORUCK, Retro Fitness, Just Ice Tea, Rhone, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions

#086: NYC Veterans Day Parade 2022 - SEAL Team's David Boreanaz & Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Vince Patton

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Here We Are….or there we were…front and center of the NYC Veterans Day Parade. Fran Racioppi is joined by fellow Army Veteran, Founder of FitFighter and guest from Episode 51, Sarah Apgar in the back of our 1944 Dodge WC-51 to call it all live and spend some time with the parade’s most influential attendees.

They kick off the parade with David Boreanaz, star of TV’s SEAL Team on CBS. David shares the respect he’s gained for our Special Operators, the training he’s gone through to accurately portray their mission, the mental health struggles our nation’s finest endure, and what he’s learned about himself through the process.

Next they spoke to the Parade’s Grand Marshall Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Vince Patton. Vince served as the 8th senior-most enlisted leader of the Coast Guard and the first African American to hold the post. He shares the importance of the Coast Guard’s mission to protect $8.7 billion of trade daily, how the military teaches you to value change and his 3V’s for leading organizations.

Take a listen to this episode on your favorite podcast platforms but take a minute to check out our YouTube version for full video coverage of the parade from the red carpet.

Don’t miss our other parade episodes with Wounded Warrior Project CEO retired LTG Mike Linnington and the Commissioner of the NYC Department of Veterans’ Services James Hendon. Plus one of NYC’s most iconic entertainers, The Naked Cowboy!

Special thanks to parade host United War Veterans Council for another great parade!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

- 0:00 Welcome to the red carpet David Boreanaz

- 11:29 David talks CBS’s Seal Team

- 16:22 The bravery of the first responders of FDNY and NYPD

- 24:58 Welcome to the red carpet MCPO of the Coast Guard Vince Patton

- 29:40 Why join the United States Coast Guard?

-36:30 What exactly HOOAH means!

-41:10 Vince’s defining leadership lessons

-49:08 What we didn’t know about Vince

-52:43 Here We Are!

Quotes:

- “As an actor you have to use what you’re also struggling on in your life. It's really not about chemistry. It’s about developing some sense of a connection.” (13:28)

- “It’s not about the awards and the accolades. It’s when you have an episode and you get a message from somebody that says ‘Thank you for saving my life’.” (21:32)

- “You think this happens in middle America. No, this is happening in our largest city in this country.” (29:08)

- “On an average day the Coast Guard is responsible for the assurance that 8.7 billion dollars of goods are trainsitted through our country” (35:06)

- “With change is the common word of adaptability.” (41:54)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, GORUCK, Retro Fitness, Just Ice Tea, Rhone, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#085: Wreaths Across America - Executive Director Karen Worcester

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 01:33:07 GMT

Freedom isn’t free. This December 17th thousands of volunteers across all 50 states will lay over 2.65 million wreaths on the graves of our fallen soldiers. Remember. Honor. Teach. That's the mission of Wreaths Across America. It's a tradition that started in 1992 when Morrill Worcester looked for a meaningful way to distribute a few hundred excess holiday wreaths. Today convoys of wreaths leave northern Maine for a trek across the country to over 3600 cemeteries.

Wreaths Across America's Executive Director Karen Worcester joins Fran Racioppi for a conversation on how a 2005 snow covered picture from a forgotten part of Arlington National Cemetery changed their lives. She shares the "stem to stone" process and why our generation must remember our fallen, honor those serving, and most importantly teach our children the value of freedom.

The Wreaths Across America convoy will make its way from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC this week. Go to wreathsacrossamerica.org to see the route, get involved and meet the convoy along the way.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast

-4:10 Morrill Worcester’s childhood trip to Arlington National Cemetery

-6:54 The 2005 picture

-10:02 Stem-to-Stone for 2.65 million wreaths

-14:54 Remember, Honor, Teach

-23:46 Wreaths Across America Day 2022

-24:40 The museum, bed and breakfast

-27:28 The characteristics of a wreath

-30:12 Karen’s three Foundations to Success

Quotes:

-”You couldn’t lay a wreath without reading the name and wondering.” (6:18)

-”The Worcester family didn’t have this major plan. We were doing something that mattered to us .” (8:34)

-”The North Pole…Santa’s workshop…got nothing on us.” (12:45)

-“We weren’t just given a gift of freedom. We were entrusted with freedom. We are responsible for freedom.” (16:37)

-”It’s life that they sacrificed so that we can be fat, dumb and happy.” (20:55)

-”Patriotism begins at home and spreads to community and spreads to country.” (32:38)

Karen’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Pray

-Show gratitude

-Don’t sweat the small stuff

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#084: At Home - Chef Gavin Kaysen

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Do you cook At Home? What do you cook at home? How do you cook at home? Why do you cook at home? These are the questions Chef Gavin Kaysen gets asked. Chef Kaysen is the recipient of 2x James Beard Awards. He was named the Rising Star Chef of the Year 2008 and Best Chef in the Midwest 2018. He is the executive Culinary Producer for the reboot of Iron Chef on Netflix and the owner of Spoon and Stable & Demi - two award winning restaurants in Minneapolis; as well as Bellecour Bakery, Mara and Soca Cafe.

For this episode Fran Racioppi sat down with Chef in one of the most iconic, and delicious, restaurants in NYC; Boulud Sud; owned and operated by legendary Chef Daniel Boulud.

Chef Kaysen and Fran answered these questions in a conversation about his new book At Home. Chef talks about creating majestic moments in hospitality and in business; why we need recipes that are simple, yet authentic; why it’s important not to talk down to home chefs; and what essentials make an impact on your daily meals - or holiday feasts.

Pick up a copy of At Home and learn more about Chef Kaysen at gavinkaysen.com and on social media @gavinkaysen.

Special thanks to Chef Daniel Boulud and the entire Boulud Sud staff for hosting Chef Kaysen and our Jedburgh Team.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Boulud Sud

-6:39 Why do you cook at home?

-11:25 From Subway to a chef

-14:50 What do you cook at home: selecting the recipes for At Home

-21:19 How do you cook at home: the essentials

-28:08 Majestic Moments, Clean Slates, First & Last Impressions

-33:34 Why do you cook at home?

-36:20 Gavin’s Commandments for Shopping Lightning Round

-45:59 Three Foundations to Success

Quotes:

-”I realized seven ingredients is what brought everyone together at a table.” (7:05)

-”Food’s food. It’s to bring people together. If we burn something, throw it away and do it again.” (10:29)

-”This business is not a business where you’re gonna work 30 or 40 hours a week and you’re gonna have nights and weekends off.” (14:03)

-”I genuinely want people to use this book. I want to see it dirty. I want to see the pages ripped open.” (16:01)

-”Why should I trust you, or anybody, with a $50 piece of steak if you can’t take care of arugula salad.” (27:26)

-”If we tell you what the menu is ahead of time you will judge it prior to getting there and you will already create an expectation of what you will like and what you will dislike before you even see the food.” (30:19)

-”When anybody critiques what you’re doing it feels very personal.” (32:35)

Chef Kaysen’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Create a routine

-Keep an open and curious mind

-Spend some time in nature

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, Compass Workforce Solutions, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#083: US Army Special Operations Command & Green Beret Foundation - LTG(R) Ken Tovo

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Fran Racioppi travels back to the home of US Army Special Operations, Fort Bragg, NC, to meet with retired LTG(R) Ken Tovo, former commander of US Army Special Operations Command. From the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School’s Special Forces Museum, Fran and Ken discuss how Special Operations has changed over the 80 years since its inception, the strategic importance of the Special Forces Regiment and what it means to be a Green Beret in the peer-to-peer competition we haven't seen since the Cold War.

Today, General Tovo serves as the Chairman of the Green Beret Foundation where he continues his service to our special operators and their families. LTG(R) Tovo recently received a lifetime achievement award for his service.

Learn more about LTG(R) Tovo on LinkedIn. Get involved with Green Beret Foundation and follow them on social media @greenberetfoundation. Become one of our nation’s most elite warriors at soc.mil.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome home to Fort Bragg, NC

-6:30 Starting in the 82nd Airborne

-16:32 What is a Green Beret?

-22:03 Psyops, Civil Affairs and the 160th SOAR

-36:26 Commanding US Army Special Operations through Afghanistan & Iraq

-51:46 GWOT: What we got right & what we got wrong

-1:05:09 “The Why”

-1:09:12 The character of a Green Beret

-1:16:00 Peer-to-Peer conflict with Russia and China & the World Order

-1:32:15 Green Beret Foundation

-1:46:05 Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

-”Green Berets are almost unique in that they are focused by and large on changing something in the human domain.” (17:55)

-”A perfect Green Beret mission looks like going to a complex environment…developing some ways to solve it through an indigenous partner.” (21:34)

-”The quiet work we do outside the combat zone pays as many or more dividends as what we do when we get employed.” (52:21)

-”War is a national effort…not a military effort. It takes a nation to commit to a future.” (1:01:30)

-”Being a Green Beret is to live a life of gravitas. You do things that make a real difference.” (1:07:35)

-”We’re trying to assess and select a complex problem solver.” (1:10:28)

-”We are really in an existential struggle with two powers, for sure, that want to order the world in a way that disadvantages us.” (1:15:46)

-””All our power as a democracy springs from the people.” (1:29:40)

-”Part of this mission of the Green Beret Foundation is to take care of Green Berets and their family past and present.” (1:35:21)

LTG(R) Tovo’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Know your why

-Stay focused on your goals

-Be a lifetime learner

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, GORUCK, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#082: Disasterology - Dispatches From The Front Lines of The Climate Crisis, Dr. Samantha Montano

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 09:00:00 GMT

The world is seemingly ripe with disasters in every corner of the globe. They also seem to be getting worse. Fran Racioppi down with Dr. Samantha Montano; a self-proclaimed Disasterologist and the author of Disasterology: Dispatches From The Front Lines of The Climate Crisis. Samantha holds a PhD in Emergency Management and is an Assistant Professor of Emergency Management at Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

Fran and Samantha break down the Hazard Event Scale explaining what takes an event from an emergency, to a disaster, to a catastrophe. They talk about the driving factors behind the increase in catastrophic events and the effects of our socio-economic policy, decaying infrastructure, lack of policy, and population movement.

Samantha also defines preparedness and shares what it takes to be a successful emergency manager, which government organizations are getting it right, and where we need more leadership with the courage to take action.

Learn more about Samantha at disaster-ology.com and on Twitter and Instagram @samLmontano.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast

-4:59 Becoming a Disterologist

-6:50 The Hazard Event Scale

-11:01 The impact of our decisions on climate change

-17:21 Climate change as a threat multiplier

-25:07 Preparedness and emergencies bring people together

-30:48 Training Emergency Managers

-33:53 The role of FEMA, the Red Cross and non-profits

-42:26 Disaster Justice and the courage to act

-48:00 Disaster Lightning Round

-53:39 Samantha’s 3 Daily Foundations

Quotes:

-”A Disasterologist is anyone who studies disasters. I’m working within the discipline of emergency management.” (5:05)

-”The way you plan for an emergency is going to look very different than the way you plan for a disaster, which is going to look different than the way you plan for catastrophes.” (9:12)

-”We have for decades, and in some cases for centuries, made decisions, written policies and made decisions…without thinking about the future.” (13:33)

-“When you have multiple parts of the country that are all simultaneously in need, resources are strained.” (19:20)

-“I don’t need a survival kit because I have a purse.” (26:31.5)

-”You need someone who has a vision and who isn’t just checking boxes.” (31:21)

-”Respect is really at the core and the foundation of building trust with a community.” (32:17)

-”That is Emergency Management 101…you want as little bureaucracy as possible between you and the resources that you need.” (35:43)

-”We are creating an emergency management system that does not only distribute aid equally to everybody, but actually disperses aid in an equitable way.” (43:02)

Samantha’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Start the day with coffee

-Live by the ‘to do’ list

-Be near the water to clear the soul

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In on the NYC Veterans Day Parade with United War Veterans Council (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Veterans Day is here…and “Here We Are”. Present, in the moment, living our potential…and for this episode…live and guerilla-style from a picnic table on 5th Ave and Broadway!

This Veterans Day, The Jedburgh Podcast is covering the parade from the back of our 1944 Dodge WC-51 podcast studio live from the red carpet. So to kick it off, Fran Racioppi traveled down to Madison Square Park to meet with the parade organizers Mark Otto and Ryan Hegg from the United War Veterans Council.

UWVC has been the steward of the parade for decades and continues to honor the service of our Veterans past, present and future. Mark and Ryan cover the history of the parade, the meaning of the route up 5th Avenue, and what we have to look forward to this year.

Fran’s guest co-host for the Veterans Day Series is Army Veteran, Founder of FitFighter and Shark Tank winner Sarah Apgar. Sarah was Fran’s guest on Episode 51 and is joining him in the back of the truck on the red carpet to interview all the prominent parade guests, volunteers and participants.

The parade’s only a couple of days away so you still have time to make the trip to NYC to be part of the action. Join Sarah and Fran bright and early at the Eternal Light Flagstaff for Chad1000X and stay for the parade.

Register here to join us for Chad 1000X 11/11/22 in Madison Square Park at 6am. Learn more at Chad1000x.com and on the Sandlot App. Learn more about UWVC and get involved in the parade here.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to NYC’s 5th & Broadway

-5:26 History of the NYC Veterans Day Parade

-7:11 “Here We Are” & United War Veterans Council

-10:08 Who’s in the parade?

-12:15 The Route

-13:50 Eternal Light Flagstaff & Wreath Laying

-15:10 Coast Guard as the featured service

-17:03 What to expect on parade day

Quotes:

-”Our team is four people…and we move 25,000 people every year.” (5:52)

-”There have been Veterans marching on this route since Armistice Day.” (6:12)

-”Our job is not just stewards of the parade but to keep Veterans in the conversation.” (8:57)

-”It really will be a snapshot of the mosaic of the Veterans community here in New York.” (11:54)

-”5th Avenue is the heart of New York City…this is the place you do things in New York City.” (13:10)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, GORUCK, Retro Fitness & Rhone.

Jumping In on Chad1000X & Veterans Day with Sara Wilkinson (The Jedburgh Podcast Veterans Day Series)

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 09:00:00 GMT

To kick off The Jedburgh Podcast coverage of the 2022 New York City Veterans Day Parade Fran Racioppi asks one of his favorite Jedburghs, Founder of FitFighter and his guest from Episode 51, Sarah Apgar to join him from the back of the 1944 Dodge WC-51.

Fran and Sarah drop the theme of this year’s Veterans Day, “Here We Are,” and discuss why Veterans Day is about honoring our past and celebrating those still serving.

As the first episode in this series, they are joined by another of our most popular Jedburghs, and Fran’s guest from Episode 55 and Episode 59, Sara Wilkinson. This year The Jedburgh Podcast is proud to support Sara and the Step Up Foundation in Chad1000X , the Hero WOD named in honor of Sara’s husband Navy SEAL Chad Wilkinson. Sara shares the pain Chad1000X brings, but the opportunity it presents to be one with yourself, present and “Here We Are.”

Join Fran and Sarah live at New York City’s Madison Square Park at 6am on 11/11 to feel the pain of Chad. Then stay for the parade and don’t miss us next to the grandstands in the WC-51. Stay tuned to our socials for updates and more information.

Register here to join us for Chad 1000X 11/11/22 in Madison Square Park at 6am. Learn more at Chad1000x.com and on the Sandlot App. Step up the fight against Veteran suicide with The Step-up Foundation.

Find more episodes on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video versions of all episodes on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Start training with FitFighter and the Steel Hose at fitfighter.com and join the action on social media @fitfighter.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Veterans Day & Chad1000X Hero WOD

-7:15 “Here We Are” - 2022 Veterans Day Theme

-10:30 How to “Live Big”

-12:30 Chad 1000X on Veterans Day in NYC

-17:53 The meaning of Veterans Day

Quotes:

-”Here we are…show up…stick together…appreciate the opportunity.” (7:35)

-”Focus on the right things for right now and what we really need.” (9:49)

-”The two rules I would say to live big is just invest in yourself and invest in others.” (11:38)

-”The workout is this poetic representation of the mental struggle that our Veterans have.” (14:37)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, GORUCK, Retro Fitness & Rhone.

#81: Alice Bromage - Empowering Success & The Leadership Of Queen Elizabeth II

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

There's a lot of noise in leadership circles around themes like get comfortable being uncomfortable, bring calm to chaos, control the uncontrollable. But how do we know when we're actually uncomfortable? Or in chaos? Are we supposed to be scared by these times...or do they offer an opportunity to excel and demonstrate our best at a time when everything says we should be at our worst?

To answer these questions Alice Bromage joins Fran Racioppi from London to discuss how we actually know when we're not acting our best and how we first define what our best really looks like. Alice founded a leadership development program focused on what she calls Resilient Leadership - or the ability to determine what's your best, when you are not acting your best, and how to get back to your best.

As an officer in the British Royal Army, Alice served under Queen Elizabeth II, so Fran took the opportunity to ask Alice all about the Queen, her leadership, and how the queen set the example for world leadership for over 70 years.

Learn more about Alice and Empowering Success at www.empowering-success.co.uk and on social media @empoweringsuccessuk.

Read the full episode transcription and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast from London

-5:12 Difference between pressure and stress

-10:17 Operating along the Resilience Spectrum

-19:30 Three Self Assessment Engines (Strength, Challenge, Feedback)

-33:54 Alice joins the British Army

-41:00 Helping people become themselves

-44:05 The diplomacy of Queen Elizabeth II

-52:29 How Queen Elizabeth controlled the narrative

-57:29 Queen Elizabeth’s impact on the military

-1:01:09 Economic changes under Queen Elizabeth

-1:07:06 Lightning round on Alice’s leadership rules and mantras

Quotes:

-”Pressure is where you are in the flow, you’re producing the goods, you’re actually kind of thriving on that high tempo piece.” (7:59)

-”Stress is where you’ve gone off the other end. You’re starting to run unnaturally on adrenaline…Your decision making starts to drop. Your ability to communicate well will often start to drop.” (8:08)

-”The business will never outgrow your personality.” (17:07)

-”The biggest way in which you are going to start to provide stress rather than pressure is also if you break someone’s value chain.” (29:34)

-”When you get that incongruence between what you think you should be and how you actually are…that’s where you often see leaders being inconsistent.” (41:30)

-”If you’re scared of losing your power, you don’t really hold the power in the first place.” (50:04)

-”If you’re in leadership, you can be strong without being noisy.” (1:06:47)

Alice’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Build a great team to fill your weaknesses & say thank you

-Clear the inbox early to stay present throughout the day

-Manage your energy and take a moment away from the noise

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In on the Premier Lacrosse League with Chaos Head Coach Andy Towers (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Head coach of the Premier Lacrosse League’s Chaos Lacrosse Club Andy Towers joins Fran Racioppi for the third time to talk about winning against all odds as he took the Chaos to the PLL Championship for the third straight year with a less than 3% chance of making it.

They cover the challenges the team faced as they started the season without many of their top players due to a schedule conflict between the PLL and the National Lacrosse League Indoor Box season. Andy explains how he had to motivate both himself and his team as they struggled to find their chemistry and play together mid-season while the rest of the league continued to improve at the same pace.

Leadership is about inspiring others towards a common goal. Leadership is about knowing what your true capability is and relentlessly pursuing your path, against all odds.

Learn more about Andy Towers on Twitter at @andytowersPLL and follow the Chaos Lacrosse Club at @PLLCHAOS on all social media.

Find more episodes on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video versions of all episodes on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome back to the Jedburgh Podcast (for the third time!)

-5:05 The personnel shortage Chaos faced to start the season

-8:08 The difference between the NLL and the PLL

-9:37 Andy Towers’ process to keep the team focused on making the playoffs

-14:06 Becoming a dangerous team in the playoffs

-18:50 The Chaos makes the 2022 PLL Championship Game

-24:33 Debriefing 2022 and turning to 2023

Quotes:

-”Our team faced obstacles that no other team in any professional sport has ever had to face.” (5:22)

-”We didn’t even start to get connected until we got our players back.” (8:01)

-”Our challenge was keeping these guys locked in and seeing with a broader lens where we needed to be.” (9:37)

-”I have zero doubt that our team is the best team in the world.” (10:21)

-”We have one goal; and that’s to make the PLL Championships.” (10:57)

-“If we could make the playoffs we were going to be a problem. I was saying it after every game.” (13:13)

-“They gave you a 2.8% chance…a probability of winning the championship.” (14:48)

-”We became a dangerous team because we had nothing to lose.” (14:47)

-”Take the blame yourself for things that go wrong and deflect the credit to the team when they do things well.” (18:37)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

#080: Project D.R.E.W. - Bringing Songwriters And Veterans Together - Brian Ferguson, Marilyn Zeidner, Mike Winnen, Tony McDonagh, J Scott Franklin, & Bill Kraker

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

What would you say if someone asked you to write a song about your life? A song about you. Your story. Who you are and what defines you. Music’s a powerful influence in our emotions and our feelings. But usually, it’s another person’s story. Another person’s journey that we identify with. What if the song was your story? What if the song was about your life?

Fran Racioppi travels to Cleveland for Project D.R.E.W; a program bringing Veterans and Songwriters together and named in honor of Captain Drew Ferguson. Fran first sits down with the founders of Project D.R.E.W. Marilyn Zeidner, Drew’s Cousin Mike Winnen and Drew’ s brother Brian Ferguson to discuss Drew’s life, why we should tell our story through music, and how a barn turned music hall is changing the lives of our Veterans.

Fran also brings back Boston Firefighter Tony McDonagh to sit down with their songwriters, J Scott Franklin and Bill Kraker, to share their experience, the process for turning a full song in 24 hours, and what defines each of us in our path from Boston to the Army to civilian life.

Learn more and get involved with Project D.R.E.W. at projectdrew.org. Listen to our songs throughout this episode and watch the concert and full video version of our conversations on YouTube.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Barnegie Hall

-5:59 Captain Drew Ferguson

-13:20 The power of music and songwriting

-22:13 How Project D.R.E.W. works

-29:30 Attending Project D.R.E.W

-34:16 “I Know a Place” Mike Winnen, Drew Ferguson & Friends

-39:17 The Veteran and Songwriter experience

-47:04 Only 24 hours to write a song

-59:32 “I Press On” Fran Racioppi & Bill Kraker

-1:06:23 “10,000 Holes” Tony McDonagh & J Scott Franklin

-1:17:00 “First World Problems” Tim Driscoll & Ray Flanagan

-1:21:10 “One Choice” Corey Webeck & Bethany Svoboda

-1:26:28 “The Blur Between The Lights” Alejandro Aguirre & Tim Blake

Quotes:

-”I’m going to call it Delivering Restorative Energy to our Warriors and name it after your cousin Drew.” (13:03)

-”I think everyone who comes here, they tell the story they’re ready to tell.” (14:50)

-”I view life as these series of chapters…and how do we position ourselves to achieve our goals and our vision in these different chapters?” (17:24)

-”I think it is part of a multi-part solution to getting people to not even heal, but to feel.” (32:26)

-”When you see something that’s this powerful you just got to dive right in and try to be as open and honest as possible.” (45:06)

-”This is the first time that I haven’t written the song about just your military experience.” (49:49)

-“That’s what Marilyn’s trying to do here. Is really get to the root of it and try to understand why we lose soldiers after the war and what as society are we going to do about it.” (58:00)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#079: Global Security Exchange - Chief Security Officers Rich Davis of United Airlines & Steve Bernard of Sony Pictures l International SOS

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Security is one of our basic, most fundamental needs. To keep up on the latest trends in security Fran Racioppi traveled to the Global Security Exchange in Atlanta to sit down with retired Chief Security Officers Rich Davis of United Airlines and Steve Bernard of Sony Pictures.

Rich oversaw United's response to the 9/11 attacks involving two of United airplanes. Steve led Sony through the North Korean cyber attack after the premier of The Interview starring Seth Rogan and James Franco.

They cover the evolution of the industry, the threats we face in both the physical and cyber domains, how thought leaders are needed in senior security positions, and how we build a security culture in our organizations.

The world is a complex place and today's companies require dedicated support for the protection of their number one asset - their people. International SOS is the industry leader in travel risk management, medical support, evacuations, mental health, crisis management and workforce resilience. On the ground in over 90 countries and 1000 locations, International SOS is there 24/7 no matter the challenge.

Learn more at InternationalSOS.com and @intlsos. Steve Bernard is the Founder of Bernard Global and Rich Davis is the founder of Rich Davis Security Consulting.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Watch the full video version of Fran’s conversation with Steve and Rich on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to the International SOS booth, GSX and ASIS International

-6:29 The chief security officer as a thought leader

-15:01 Rich’s career at United Airlines from the kitchen to chief security officer

-19:27 Steve’s transition from Vietnam Veteran to Corporate Security

-23:30 The evolution of the security industry

-26:00 Prioritizing security at United Airlines and Sony Pictures

-33:47 North Korea’s hack of Sony Pictures

-37:37 The impact of 9/11 on United and the hack on cyber

-45:14 The next generation of security leadership and the remote workforce

-53:05 The role of International SOS

-59:55 Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

-”We’re all about assessing risk, assessing threats and how to counter those threats, because the most important thing we do is protect people and assets.” (10:08)

-”Crisis management begins long before the crisis has arrived.” (12:26)

-”I worked for United Airlines for 40 years. I actually started in the kitchen.” (16:22)

-”A CSO doesn’t have to be the expert in all this. They have to figure out how do they add the greatest value and to set the strategy, lead the team.” (21:28)

-”Everything's a priority, that was my mindset.” (29:39)

-”When you connected, the meltdown on your hard drive started. ” (35:22)

-”They're in 27 different call centers around the world.” (55:10)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#078: Jesse Iwuji - NASCAR Driver, US Naval Officer & Entrepreneur

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

What matters more? Where we start? Where we finish? Or how fast we drive the course we set for ourselves? NASCAR Driver, US Navy Officer and entrepreneur Jesse Iwuji joins Fran Racioppi to show how hard work and focus will close any gap on the open track of life.

Fran and Jesse cover growing up un-athletic in Texas the son of Nigerian immigrants, earning a spot on the US Naval Academy Football Team, deploying multiple times on ships, pursuing his dream to race cars, and his recent partnership with NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith to launch his own NASCAR team; Jesse Iwuji Motorsports.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Watch the full video version of Fran’s conversation with Jesse on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Learn more about Jesse at jesseiuwji.com and follow Jesse on social media @jesse_iwuji.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to The Jedburgh Podcast

-3:28 Why your starting point in life shapes

-7:48 Leadership lessons from the US Navy and getting to know your people

-10:48 Jesse seizes his dream of becoming a race car driver

-15:25 Partnership with Emmitt Smith and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports

-19:27 Confronting and overcoming fear

-21:32 Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series

-23:03 Jesse’s Three Daily Foundations

Quotes:

-”That’s the difference between desire and ambition…desire is just dreaming it up the whole day…ambition is actually coupling action with that desire and trying to execute.” (4:14)

-”Let’s say you are dealt a bad hand; take a drink of water, sit back down and play again.” (4:58)

-”When you are leading this very versatile group of people, you got to understand your people.” (9:05)

-”Effective leaders have to know when to lead and when to get involved.” (10:19)

-”There’s just no limit. You do whatever is necessary to get there.“ (14:31)

-”You have to insanely and obsessively believe that the goal will come true.” (15:08)

-”You can tell the people who are doers…those are the people you want to bet on.” (18:16)

-”Setbacks are setups for phenomenal comebacks as long as you are willing to continue to put action and be creative.” (21:18)

Jesse Iwuji’s 3 Daily Foundations to Success

-Pray and have faith

-Put action and energy into moving forward

-Stay focused on physical health

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#077: Operation Pineapple Express - Founder LTC (R) Scott Mann

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

A year ago the United States withdrew from Afghanistan officially ending the 20 year Global War on Terror. We may never find agreement on whether we failed or succeeded in Afghanistan.

For this episode, Fran Racioppi returned to the place where the Global War on Terror began on the blue sky day of September 11th, 2001 in lower Manhattan. He asked retired LTC Scott Mann to join him on a balcony overlooking the Freedom Tower and the 9/11 Memorial for a conversation on the withdrawal from Afghanistan and his new book, Operation Pineapple Express.

Operation Pineapple Express pulled hundreds to freedom through a hole in a gate in the final days on the ground in Afghanistan.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Watch the full video version of Fran’s conversation with Scott overlooking the Freedom Tower and the 9/11 Memorial on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Learn more about Scott at rooftopleadership.com and scottmann.com. Get a copy and read Operation Pineapple Express where ever you get your favorite books. And follow Scott on social media @rooftop_leadership.

Highlights:

-0:00 Intro & welcome to Ground Zero

-6:10 Scott’s 9/11 story & the evolution of the Afghanistan Mission

-16:35 The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan

-22:55 Scott decides to get involved & his two questions

-30:00 The hole in the fence and the decision to leave

-40:49 Abby Gate explosion

-43:08 What it all means

-59:04 Recommendations to step up and lead from the front

-1:06:30 Last Out, The Hero’s Journey & Rooftop Leadership

-1:20:54 Scott’s three daily foundations to success

Quotes:

-”It started by working by, with and through true indigenous clans and tribes.” (7:47)

-”I think it’s a real shame that we left that force abandoned because I think they could have held the line.” (10:30)

-”I don’t understand that our partner force is getting left behind.” (15:17)

-”Why didn’t someone just throw their stars on the table and say ‘not on my watch.’” (22:01)

-”Everything about my time in Afghanistan hinged on whether he lived or died.” (24:49)

-”What does a promise mean to you? And how far would you go to honor it.” (27:20)

-”They were gonna pull people in until the very end.” (41:47)

-”There are people who are trying to fall this tower.” (46:30)

-”To leave them…in the way that we left them…I don’t know how you can live with that.” (56:11)

Scott Mann’s 3 Daily Foundations to Success

-Prepare for every engagement

-Connect with people where they are

-Recover between engagements

This is episode is in honor of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom in the Global War on Terror…and their families. De Oppresso Liber.

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In on Stuckey's with CEO Stephanie Stuckey (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Most family businesses fail in the third generation. Stephanie Stuckey is determined to make sure Stuckey’s not only survives, but scales. Fran Racioppi Jumped In with Stephanie to catch up on their Episode 28 conversation from last September and to discuss just how she continues to rebuild the Stuckey’s brand taking their candy products from 1000 to 5000 stores.

She bought her grandfather’s roadside stop and candy business out of near bankruptcy in 2019 because she knew only a Stuckey could save the iconic foundation of the American road trip. Stuckey’s was a fond memory for many of us growing up in the backseat of our parent’s cars. Stephanie’s making sure our kids have the same experience.

Learn more about Stephanie and Stuckey’s at stuckeys.com and follow them on social media @stuckeystop.

Find more episodes on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video versions of all episodes on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Atlanta

-6:40 Not the start-up, the scale-up

-9:10 Reinventing the road trip

-12:05 From tree to table business model

-15:45 The best Stuckey’s products

-19:22 Branding is about creating an emotional connection

-24:17 The A.I.R method for successful social media posts

Quotes:

-“We’ve had to reinvent the brand.” (6:58)

-”I had to come up with a way to make money when we don’t own or operate any of the stores.” (7:30)

-”In order to move the brand forward I have to be almost brutally honest and realistic about where the brand is today.” (9:43)

-”The more you control the supply chain the better.” (14:05)

-”My favorite is a flavor that we don’t have out yet..and that’s the teriyaki pecan.” (15:53)

-”People don’t like to be sold to. People are more interested in emotion.” (20:32)

-”I’m not in the business of simply making a profit.” (21:15)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

#076: The Onion - Co-Founder Scott Dikkers

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Fake news is everywhere. Fran Racioppi traveled to Minneapolis to meet the pioneer of all things false, the founder of The Onion Scott Dikkers. Scott and Fran cover his book, Outrageous Marketing, where he challenges conventional wisdom on building brand loyalty, making your own rules and connecting with consumers.

An introvert by nature, Scott spent decades leading a team of creatives without an organizational chart, no corporate policies, giving no credit, and getting quality from quantity. Scott and Fran discuss the evolution of the media industry, the rise of commentary over objectivity, top Onion headlines and 13 tips to being OUTRAGEOUS!

Learn more about Scott at scottdikkers.com and @itsscottdikkers. And get your fill of fake news at TheOnion.com and @theonion on social media.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Minneapolis and Scott’s house

-5:30 Outrageous marketing is being the most extreme version of yourself

-12:48 Humor is the thing that animals can’t do

-15:08 The 11 things that make it funny

-18:35 The five themes of Outrageous Marketing

-32:02 Attention economy vs love economy

-39:45 The importance of brand character

-43:41 The factions of the media industry

-58:30 Curiosity keeps us ahead of the competition

-1:03:21 Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable

-1:10:12 Top Onion headlines

-1:17:45 Scott's 13 Tips to becoming Outrageous

-1:28:40 What’s next & Daily Foundations

Quotes:

-”The Onion was just a format for the comedy. It was kind of an accident of history that it was fake news. That it was in the format of a newspaper.” (9:07)

-”We were obsessed with doing the best comedy we possibly could.” (10:55)

-”Humor is the highest functioning thing our brains can do…it’s the thing that animals can’t do.” (13:19)

-”There are 11 different kinds of jokes. That’s the only kind of jokes there are.” (15:41)

-”My compulsion to do comedy…It’s literally the only way I knew how to relate to other people.” (22:31)

-”In comedy, quantity really is the path to quality.” (25:00)

-”My goal at The Onion was to make the reader and the advertiser…feel absolutely unconditionally loved.” (35:33)

-”Anything I watch; especially on TV…like in the mainstream media…I just don’t believe any of it.” (48:06)

-”I think what the repeal of the fairness doctrine has really done is basically unleash the worst of humanity.” (48:32)

-”Do you honestly think things will never get better? No, a better idea is gonna come along.” (59:03)

-”Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” (1:03:45)

Scott’s 3 Daily Foundations to Success

-Write comedy every day

-Help someone else get better at comedy

-Enjoy some comedy as an audience member

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#075: Boston Firefighters Union Local 718 - President Sam Dillon & Tower Ladder 10

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

For over 344 years the Boston fire department has led America and set the example for excellence, standards and service to others. Boston's firefighters are supported and empowered by Local 718, the Boston firefighter's union. For this 9/11 special edition episode, Fran Racioppi goes home to Boston to sit down with a group who know no other mission than to preserve and protect life.

Fran spends part one of the episode with newly elected President of Local 718 Sam Dillon discussing his service in the US Marines, why his three pillars of Solidarity, Advocacy, and Respect are essential to the next generation of firefighter and the mental health of first responders.

In the post 9/11 world, the Boston Fire Department maintains one of the strongest Veteran communities in the country. In part two Fran and Sam are joined by fellow Veterans turned Boston firefighters Greg Kelly, Tony McDonagh and Josh Stuart-Shor on what it means to serve their country and their city, no matter the challenge.

Learn more about the Local 718 and the Boston Fire Department www.bostonfirelocal718.org and follow them on social media @bostonfirefighters.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

-0:00 Welcome to Egleston Square Firehouse

-6:44 Local 718 advocates for the firefighters of Boston

-7:45 Sam answers the call to run for Local 718 Union President

-9:35 History of Boston Fire Department

-12:51 The mission and standards of a Boston Firefighter

-21:30 The leadership of the fire department has been passed to the post 9/11 generation

-23:39 Sam’s career in the Marine Corps & being awarded the Purple Heart

-28:47 First responder mental health and transition

-30:11 The impact of COVID on the Boston Fire Department

-34:40 Sam’s Three pillars of Solidarity, Advocacy & Respect

-38:41 A tribute to first responders

-47:00 Crisis leadership in Boston

-51:58 Greg, Tony and Josh join to discuss a lifetime of service and the impact 9/11 had on each of them

-1:10:10 The camaraderie of the fire department

Quotes:

-”Firefighters are this city’s lifeline; and this union…it’s the lifeline for firefighters and their families.” (6:49)

-”When I came on this job I was just happy to be a Boston firefighter…my life long ambition.” (7:47)

-”You don’t always get to pick your time. Sometimes your time picks you.” (9:11)

-”Boston was at the forefront of America; and Boston firefighters are at the forefront of firefighting.” (11:39)

-“Mission, team, self…in that order.” (16:34)

-”We are willing to lose our lives for each other. We are willing to lose our lives for the city of Boston.” (17:59)

-”You cannot sit idly by when your country and your way of life is attacked.” (25:34)

-”If you spend the rest of your life trying to erase them, those things are eventually just gonna erase you.” (29:41)

-”I don’t pray for fires, but if there’s a fire I want them to call me.” (1:18:46)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#074: Special Olympics - 2022 & 2026 USA Games – Christine Sovereign, Joe Dzaluk and Dave Dorn

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The Special Olympics exists in every corner of the globe and has supported over five million athletes. Fran Racioppi travels to Minneapolis to sit down with the leaders of the 2022 and the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, Joe Dzaluk, Christine Sovereign and David Dorn.

The 2022 USA Games in Orlando, through partnership with Jersey Mike's Subs, set a record and a new standard for financial support to the games. Jersey Mike's CEO Peter Cancro is an original member of our Jedburgh Team and committed 100% of sales during the Annual Day of Giving to the 2022 Games, this totaled $20 million.

The group covers the history of the Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver's call to action, the Special Olympics place as the leader of inclusion before inclusion was even a term in mainstream society, Jersey Mike's unprecedented leadership and example in giving, and what to expect for 2026.

Learn more about Special Olympics at specialolympics.org and @specialolympics.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Joe, Christine and Dave share why they got involved with Special Olympics and how Special Olympics opens its doors to athletes of all backgrounds, disabilities and abilities. (9:15))

-The group explains why Special Olympics has led society in diversity, equity and inclusion over the past 50 years. (18:10)

-Jersey Mike’s gave 100% of revenue from the annual Day of Giving to Special Olympics totaling $20 million. (27:32)

-Joe reflects back on the 2022 Games in Orlando discussing both the athletic events and the over 13,000 health exams provided to the athletes. (33:46)

-Christine and Dave share the focus for the 2026 Games and Jersey Mike’s commitment to continued support. (40:32)

Quotes:

-”Most people think about it as just a track and field event, and now you see it is really a movement about inclusion.” (6:59)

-”Unified sports is people with and without disabilities playing on the same field, playing on the same team.” (7:45)

-”You can run the 50 yard dash in eight seconds or you can run the 50 yard dash in 8 minutes. We’re still going to take you.” (14:10)

-”The Special Olympics oath…talks about ‘if I can’t in let me be brave in the attempt.” (20:30)

-”He looked at me. He goes, “Joe, are you listening to me? I’m giving to give.”(30:19)

-“It was just a great overall experience, a great partnership, and a great example of what corporate America can do.” (32:52)

-”It ultimately comes down to acceptance. Inclusion has to be there to be accepted.” (44:32)

Special Olympics Three Daily Foundations to Success

-Keep the mission of acceptance in the forefront

-Surround ourselves with a dedicated team

-Remember the legacy of Special Olympics

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#073: Rhone - Co-Founder And CEO Nate Checketts

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Athleisure is one the fastest growing and most competitive retail segments. The days of suits and tight jeans have passed. Fran Racioppi heads to New York City to sit down with Nate Checketts, Co-Founder and CEO of Rhone.

Built on the mantra "we aren't just selling a product, we are selling a lifestyle," Fran and Nate discuss the three pillars of Rhone, building brand loyalty, the importance of intentionality, goals, standards and holding ourselves accountable to metrics.

Nate and Rhone are also unrelenting supporters of men's mental health and reducing the stigmas around a man's ability to be open, vulnerable and in need. Fran and Nate dig deep on the importance of being there for each other and accepting that it's ok to not be ok. Plus, Fran sticks around for Rhone’s first Mind and Muscle Event.

Learn more about Nate and Rhone at Rhone.com, @rhone and @natechecketts.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out the full video version on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Fran & Nate sit down in Rhone’s flagship store on 5th Avenue in the Flatiron district of New York City.

-Nate shares how competition drives us away from each other. (7:52)

-Intention, comfort and quality form the foundation of Rhone’s products and the culture in the company; Nate is the biggest critic and hardest on the products. (10:5)

-Nate’s time at the NFL taught him valuable lessons on branding. (15:57)

-Fran and Nate discuss the importance of quality, planned longevity of clothing, and why we always pick the same things out of our closets. (32:53)

-Fran asks Nate to provide his assessment on the Athleisure industry. (41:05)

-Nate credits his parents for instilling in him leadership lessons, hard work and an adherence to standards. (45:10)

-Nate shares his methods to make mental health a toolkit to be used in difficult times. (56:20)

Quotes:

-“I don’t think my mom believed we had a real business until we opened a store on 5th Avenue.” (3:41)

-”Don’t get caught up in the past. Don’t get caught up in the future. But just keep kind of progressing.” (5:56)

-“There was a lot of thought and intention behind everything that we do.” (11:40)

-”We want to make things in a way that’s perfect for our customer.” (32:19)

-“If I give you one of our shorts it’s gonna be the first thing out of your closet every single time.” (34:00)

-”The lessons they taught me…I could not function as a leader without the principles that they instilled upon me.” (47:07)

-“If you are struggling…the best thing you can do is talk about it with someone.” (52:48)

-”Mental health should be viewed as developing a toolbelt when things get hard.” (56:20)

-”Goal setting is the easy part…what’s really really hard is monitoring that.” (1:01:42)

Nate’s three daily foundations to success:

-Start the day with spirituality and gratitude

-Move the body

-Journal for mental health and reflection

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In On Escaping the Taliban with Asma Paigeer (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It’s been a year since the United States withdrew from Afghanistan. A year ago Asma Paigeer was standing outside Kabul International Airport, evading the Taliban and desperately trying to make contact with the American military to save her life. Today she is a student at Virginia Tech studying computer science and advocating for the importance of education in defining freedom.

Fran Racioppi Jumps In with Asma to discuss her escape, her new life in America and what it’s like to be a Hokie now.

America’s job isn’t done and if the last year has shown anything, it’s that the kindness and generosity of the American people will never be defeated. Take a listen to Fran’s conversation with Asma and support her Go Fund Me to pay for her education here.

Learn more about Asma on LinkedIn and on Twitter @asma_paigeer.

Listen to more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video versions of all episodes on YouTube. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-Asma shares the emotional account of evading the Taliban and making contact with US Military forces at the Hamid Karzai International Airport. (3:06)

-Asma’s father served in the Afghan Army, missing much of her childhood to defend their country; something she is incredibly proud of. (4:37)

-Fran asks Asma to describe the situation in Afghanistan today and what she is hearing from her family still there. (6:23)

-The generosity and kindness of the American people has been essential to the integration of the Afghan people into the United States. (10:04)

-Asma now attends college at Virginia Tech where she is studying computer science, looking for an internship and planning her return to lead Afghanistan into the next chapter. (14:40)

-Asma explains how education is the key to freedom and how her victory over the Taliban comes down to her ability to complete her education. (19:00)

Quotes:

-”It was really rapid the way the government collapsed and the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan. It became a shocking reality to all of us. (3:36)

-”They threatened to shoot us. To kill us. They beat our driver to create fear.” (4:11)

-“It’s more horrible than you can see on the news.” (7:09)

-”No one has the right to speak against the government of the Taliban.” (7:58)

-”When I entered the United States I had only one dress…that I was wearing. I had nothing else with me.” (9:30)

-”It’s such a great thing to save a human being’s life…I’m grateful for all of them.” (14:00)

-”Education is not a privilege. It’s a basic human right.” (19:55)

-”I just don’t want to survive, I want to live.” (20:53)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

#072: Sage Spoonfuls - Founder & CEO Liza Huber

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Liza Huber is the founder and CEO of Sage Spoonfuls, a healthy and simple solution to making your own baby food. Fran Racioppi travels home to suburban Boston to meet Liza to discuss creative financing to retain equity, transition from acting to manufacturing and how an order from Buy Buy Baby launched the brand to a new level.

Liza also discusses her son's diagnosis with Cerebral Palsy and what it taught her family about finding solutions when you won't take no for an answer.

Liza starred on NBC's hit daytime television show Passions. Today Sage Spoonfuls is available in Buy Buy Baby, Pottery Barn, Target, Walmart, Bed, Bath & Beyond and on Amazon. Liza is one of Forbes “Female Entrepreneurs Rocking The World." Learn more about Liza at sagespoonfuls.com and @sagespoonfuls and @lizahuber.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Why as parents we research the best of everything until it comes to solid food. (5:51)

-Liza shares her emotional story of giving birth to her son Brendan, who was born premature and with Cerebral Palsy. (9:07)

-Sage Spoonfuls started as a cookbook and storage jars; Liza’s launch plan very quickly put them in Buy Buy Baby propelling the brand into the market. (15:25)

-Fran challenges Liza to break down her process for scaling Sage Spoonfuls across people, process and technology. (19:31)

-Liza shares her lessons in accountability and how not focusing on verifying the details resulted in cost overruns and lost productivity. (22:02)

-Creative financing is imperative for entrepreneurs to raise capital without giving up equity; Liza shares methods she has leveraged to fund the business. (33:43)

-Liza discusses the importance of fear, failure and how to make your mistakes early and inexpensively. (42:30)

-Liza shares her favorite memories of daytime TV, her four lessons for starting your own business and her assessment of current economic policy on small businesses. (48:25)

Quotes:

-“There really must be a better way for busy parents to provide the healthiest food possible for our children.” (7:19)

-”The point was just to keep him alive.” (9:22)

-”I am the epitome of the true entrepreneur who just builds the plane as she flies it.” (15:58)

-”Right from the get go I knew that I wanted to remain 100% owner.” (20:11)

-”Don’t ever take your finger off the pulse of every single level of your business.” (23.21)

-”Try to keep your mistakes as inexpensive as possible.” (42:57)

-”You have to fall in love with failure, because failure is how we learn.” (46:03)

-”There’s never gonna be a day without problems. And there’s never gonna be a day without a little success.” (47:23)

-”Keep it to yourself…launch, land and expand as fast as you can.” (55:54)

-”There is no one solution when every single link in the chain is broken.” (1:02:18)

Liza’s three daily foundations to success:

-Commit to the critical task list

-Do the thing you would do if you had 20 seconds of wild courage

-Put away the phone and spend time with the kids

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#071: Sailahead: Healing Wounded Veterans Through Sailing

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

There’s solace in being on the water. met. Sailahead is a Veteran Service Organization that’s changing lives. For this episode Fran Racioppi traveled to Centerport Yacht Club for Sailahead’s annual event of over 150 people, almost 40 boats and Veterans spanning every conflict from WWII to today.

Fran sat down with Kilian, Sean and Jenny Duclay who started Sailahead to bring Veterans the healing power of the water, bring awareness to PTS and Veteran Suicide, and to honor our mates.

He also shared a moment with the The Day Family, who’s son Ryan served as an Army Ranger, deployed multiple times to Afghanistan, and died by suicide as he struggled with the emotional toll endless conflict takes on us.

Finally, Fran talked the oath we have to each other with a group of Army Rangers who never sailed before joining Sailahead.

It’s time to stop Veteran suicide. It’s time to accept and acknowledge that it's ok to not be ok.

Learn more about Sailahead at sailahead.org and on social media @sailahead.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Sailahead was started by 16 year-old Kilian and 14 year-old Sean after taking a Vietnam veteran sailing in the winter. (5:30)

-Sailahead operates under three pillars: using the ocean as a healing power, raising awareness for Veterans’ Mental Health, and to honoring Our Mates. (8:30)

-Sailing provides Veterans an outlet to build and work on a team, learn new skills, and regain some of the competitive atmosphere lost when they leave service. (29:30)

-Fran and Jim, Linda & Justin Day share their memories of Ryan, his legacy and why Veterans struggle with being able to turn off. (31:23)

-Jim shares the importance of the phrase “we live with it” and how we must accept what has happened to be able to move forward. (40:26)

-Linda explains how the concept of “it’s ok to not be ok” allows for respect and perspective in finding and accepting help. (42:25)

-Fran sits down with Ron, James and Mike; three former Army Rangers, to discuss the importance of community both in the military and post-service. (50:46)

Quotes:

-”For 20 years he’d been going to therapy to treat his PTSD and that was the best therapy that he’d ever had.” (7:06)

-”If 22 lives are lost a day, there’s not just 22 people who are suffering.” (10:36)

-”An immediate goal is spreading that awareness and making sure people understand that they are not alone.” (25:35)

-”We don’t just want to take someone for a boat ride. We want them to gain a new perspective on life.” (28:15)

-”To see this happen because of some part of his being, not being satisfied, and not be able to turn off the energy that was put into him by the military is a travesty,” (34:00)

-”This never ends…as time goes on what you have to do is learn to live with it. There Is no other choice.” (40:35)

-”It’s easy to fall into the pit of emotion that comes with loss. It’s what you do with it after it happens.” (41:30)

-”It’s ok not to be ok…but it’s not ok to keep it to yourself.” (1:05:32)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In On PLNT Burger, Eat The Change & Honest Tea With Seth Goldman (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:44:54 GMT

Seth Goldman spent 24 years building Honest Tea from an idea to a leading global beverage. But on May 23 Coca-Cola announced they were discontinuing the brand citing supply chain and COVID-19 impacts.

Over the last few years he launched Eat the Change and PLNT Burger, extending a career that has been spent providing us with a healthy - and environmentally friendly - choice in what we consume.

For this episode Fran Racioppi asked Seth to Jump In to discuss Coke’s decision, what he learned from building a brand that changed the way we drink, the rapid growth of PLNT Burger and which mushroom jerky and carrot chews to try first.

Seth’s not done with tea yet. He’s fighting back to refill the hole the loss of Honest Tea will create in the market as he just announced the launch of Just Ice Tea - coming soon to a store near you.

Learn more about Eat the Change and PLNT Burger at eatthechange.com and PLNTburger.com - and on social media @eatthechange & @plntburger.

Find more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-PLNT Burger is now in 12 locations; 10 located in Whole Foods and two new stand alone locations in New York City. (4:30)

-Seth explains the importance of democratizing healthy eating options and making it available to all consumers. (6:45)

-Coca-Cola has decided to discontinue Honest Tea (the brand Seth built from scratch) citing supply chain issues and further investment in Gold Peak. (8:19)

-Seth explains how the market opportunity, producers and consumers still exist for a brand like Honest Tea. (9:03)

-Seth is launching Just Ice Tea to fill the gap being left by the closure of Honest Tea and explains the theory behind the name. (10:50)

-Fran asks Seth to share the lesson from Honest Tea. (15:01)

Quotes:

-”I love healthy and wealthy consumers; but that’s not the goal of the businesses I run.” (6:03)

-”We’ve got to make these products taste great, be price accessible and fun.” (6:32)

-”A small group of business people decided that shouldn’t be around anymore. It doesn’t mean the market opportunity disappeared.” (9:03)

-”That’s how we have to respond; because we know the market opportunity is there.” (10:31)

-“All the core ingredients…the tea and the sweeteners…will be fair trade certified.” (11:26)

-”There’s no downside to acting on the things that you believe in.” (15:25)

-”There is such a thing as Karma in business.” (16:36)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

Jumping In on The War In Ukraine with Special Operations Association of America CEO Daniel Elkins (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

For an update on the war in Ukraine, Fran Racioppi Jumped In with Daniel Elkins, CEO of Special Operations Association of America and our guest from Episode 33, where we covered SOAA’s mission, his career as a Green Beret in the Special Forces, SOAA’s commitment legislative advocacy and their work supporting Afghan refugees.

SOAA just signed an agreement with the Ukrainian government to train their soldiers in basic combat fundamentals. They are one of the first non-profits to be authorized to officially train the Ukrainians and they’re working on US government approval right now. Daniel and Fran talk Ukraine, SOAA’s efforts in the region and the toll the war is taking on the people. We also circle back on Afghanistan, SOAA’s calls for a full investigation and what they are doing to continue to support Afghan refugees.

Learn more about SOAA and get involved at SOAA.org. Follow them on social media @soaaorg.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here. Subscribe to us and follow @jedburghpodcast on all social media.

Highlights:

-Daniel credits his time serving at the US embassy in Ukraine for his dedication to the Ukrainian people and their fight (5:02)

-To meet the demand for soldiers, Ukraine was forced to reduce its basic training time to under a week for new soldiers. (7:37)

-SOAA is following a deliberate certification process to ensure they are fully authorized by the US government to conduct training of the Ukrainian forces. (9:40)

-SOAA is calling for a full investigation into the Afghanistan withdrawal and the lasting affects on the Afghan refugees. (14:41)

Quotes:

-“When everything kicked off I knew we were going to be a part of it.” (5:53)

-”That’s really what SOAA’s all about, it’s about being able to bring the ground truth back to the halls of congress.” (6:45)

-”The fighting force that’s now going to the front is well equipped…but they’re lacking trainers to teach them basic soldiering skills.” (8:34)

-”We have the ability to move the needle now and that’s what we’re going to do.” (13:55)

“We were successful from August to the end of January in helping rescue about 7000 of our Afghan allies and American citizens and their families.” (15:27)

-”How did it happen and now is the time to ask that question.” (16:14)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

#070: You're It - Crisis, Change & How To Lead When It Matters Most - Co-Author & Associate Director of NPLI Eric McNulty

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Crisis will strike and we as leaders will have prepared ourselves and our organizations or we will fail in our response.

In this Boston-based episode, Fran Racioppi sits down with Eric McNulty, Co-Author of “You're It: Crisis, Change and How to Lead When it Matters Most” and Associate Director of the National Preparedness Leadership Institute, to explain how success in crisis comes down to Meta-Leadership and our ability to lead down, up, across and beyond. Fran and Eric also discuss strategies to make sense of complexity, the perspective of the cone in the cube, knowns, forces, and a lightning round of crisis leadership do’s and don'ts.

Read Eric's book, "You're It: Crisis, Change and How To Lead When It Matters Most."

Find him on Twitter @richerearth & LinkedIn. Learn more about the National Preparedness Leadership Institute at Harvard at npli.sph.harvard.edu and on Twitter @harvardnpli.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Meta-Leadership requires a broad view of the crisis at hand and connections up, down, across & beyond. (5:57)

-People find themselves as “it” by position, default or appointment. Fran asks Eric to describe the type of leaders who rise to the challenge vs those that falter from the start. (8:47)

-Eric breaks down the difference between the four types of knowns and how we separate what is known from what can be known. (18:01)

-Fran and Eric discuss how “Swarm Leadership” defined the response to the Boston Marathon bombing, yet no one was clearly in charge. (23:45)

-Leading in a crisis requires an understanding of systems, complexity and adaptation. (33:30)

-Eric explains why chaos is natural and important; but how it must be balanced with order. (38:58)

-The POP-DOC Loop (a descendant of the OODA Loop) allows leaders to separate the complex from the complicated. (59:35)

-Fran challenges Eric to a quick-hit session on crisis leadership. (1:14:08)

Quotes:

-”You can’t always prevent the initial incident…You can always prevent the secondary crisis of a fumbled response.” (7:02)

-”Failure is always an option. It may not be your preferred option…but things can go wrong.” (12:33)

-“You always want to know who you’re going to call upon to be on your team.” (15:38)

-”Simplicity is an antidote to complication…get the complication out of the system.” (35:32)

-”When you try and control everything you often actually create more chaos.” (40:08)

-”Whenever someone is yelling at you, there’s a lot to learn.” (43:45)

-“We humans make sense of the world through pattern making.” (1:01:12)

-”No complex crisis is solved by one person acting alone.” (1:05:30)

Eric’s 3 Foundations to Success

-Hydrate

-Conduct a horizon scan of the day’s news and events

-Walk the dog without a phone to be present and find calm

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#069: Readocracy: Co-Founder & CEO Mario Vasilescu

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We live in a world completely consumed by information. Mario Vasilescu says society is in the middle of an information epidemic in which we suffer from Infobesity, Information Pollution, and how we are the victims of Information Warfare.

In this episode Fran Racioppi met Mario at the Betaworks Studios in New York City to discuss the epidemic, the importance of the information commons, and Mario’s keys to freedom, resilience and control of what information comes our way.

Mario is the founder of Readocracy, a knowledge management platform giving users credits for consuming real information, by real people, in real time. Our first amendment gives us the right to free speech; but shouldn't we also have the right to choose what we are forced to consume?

Find out more about Mario at Readocracy.com and follow him on Instagram and Twitter at @1upm.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-An information epidemic has arisen as social media platforms push viewers content based on their engagements and interactions vs the quality of the content. (4:33)

-Mario explains how the validity of the Information Commons has degraded as the information commons has shifted from expert-based to anyone with a cell phone. (8:46)

-Mario breaks down his three lenses on the information crisis: Infobesity, Information Pollution and Information Warfare. (25:54)

-Fran and Mario discuss Brandolini’s Law and the difficulty in refuting trolls and misinformation. (47:24)

-Freedom of speech is an inherent right that is solidified when we are given the opportunity to choose what we consume. (55:18)

-Mario challenges us to consider how much of what we consume should be classified as entertainment vs news. (1:00:39)

-Readocracy is Mario’s way of fighting back to create freedom, control and resilience in our information consumption. (1:10:17)

Quotes:

-”This system doesn’t really care about quality. It cares about quantity. And that is where it becomes a race to the bottom.”

-”The internet is our collective conscience. It’s our collective mind. Our hive mind basically.”

-”Nobody is telling you what to believe. At least they are just giving you the context. That’s the ultimate freedom because you can think for yourself.”

-“What about our information diet and how we feed our minds.”

-”Your identity becomes ‘how can I pull more attention and these simple metrics.’”

-”Is it normal that somebody with over 100,000 followers should have zero responsibility?”

-”You do need to be more vigilant when you’re online and taking information.”

-”Brandolini’s Law…the bullshit asymmetry principle.”

-”You should be allowed to say whatever you want, but that doesn’t mean that everybody else should be forced to listen.

-”Readocracy is making how you inform yourself matter.”

Mario’s 3 Foundations to Success

-Think at 90 degree angles to remain at the leading edge of curiosity

-Maintain emotional calm

-Workout and play hockey

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solution s

#068: Taking The Helm - Oakcliff Sailing Executive Director Dawn Riley

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Sailing teaches us to lead, follow, or get out of the way. Dawn Riley, Executive Director of Oakcliff Sailing is the first woman to win an America's Cup. She led two Whitbread Round the World races, was the US Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year and the former President of the Women's Sports Foundation.

To sit down with Dawn, Fran Racioppi docked in Oyster Bay alongside Maiden, the boat Dawn sailed around the world to talk leadership, Title IX, the evolution of the sport, winning the Cup, leading an all women's team around the world and what it will take to put US Sailing back on top.

Find out more about Dawn at dawnriley.com, oakcliffsailing.org and @oakcliffsailing on social media. Her book is “Taking The Helm.”

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Dawn discusses the vision of Oakcliff Sailing, the support given by the Lawrence Family and how they have grown into a premier sailing development school by growing Saplings, Acorns and Mighty Oaks. (6:35)

-Dawn was the only woman on A3, the 1992 America’s Cup winning team; she describes what it was like being a woman in a male-dominated sport, what they saw in her and how we reach gender equality in sports. (15:34)

-Fran and Dawn engage in critical conversation on raising middle school kids, why Dawn entered sailing in the first place, and how her initiative America True is helping kids. (19:00)

-The importance of diversity in building great organizations. (29:19)

-”Taking The Helm” is Dawn’s autobiography highlighting the 1993 Round The World Race and how Dawn was thrust into the skipper role to lead the team. (35:22)

-Dawn shares her unique leadership style, how to balance empathy with authority and what America needs from the next generation of politicians. (41:08)

-Fran challenges Dawn to explain how the evolution of sailboat design has changed the sport, but the basics of sailing are still critical to winning at every level. (51:51)

Quotes:

-”We’re building American leaders through sailing.”

-”The only things that were super upsetting, like in a weird way, I was tired of wearing men’s clothing.”

-”I just hit the sweet spot between competent, determined, not phased by a bunch of bs, able to handle it, give as good as I took and I love the sport of sailing.”

-“I was told by the person who was hired to select the team that I would never be in the back of the boat.”

-”Everything I’ve done in my life, I truly enjoy the process.”

-”Having a diverse team…diverse thought, diverse background…will make your company stronger.”

-”I want to be proud to be an American. I want to be emotional when the Star Spangled Banner goes.”

-“You need to have women in decision-making across the board.”

-”You need to have a space to clear your brain…sailing and on the water engages all your senses.”

Dawn’s 3 Foundations to Success

-Wake up and create task list

-Work out

-Look at (or be in) the water

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solution s

Jumping In on the Assassination of Japanese Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe: Boston University Professor Bill Grimes (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Japan’s former Prime minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated on July 8. Japan is one of the world’s safest countries, has some of the strictest gun laws and has lived by a culture of pacifism since the end of WWII.

Fran Racioppi asked Boston University Professor Bill Grimes to join him for a conversation on Prime Minister Abe, his conservative policies on national defense and economics, his place in Japan’s history of charismatic leaders, and where Japan goes from here internationally and domestically.

Professor Grimes teaches international relations and political sciences, has authored a number of books on Japanese politics and economics, and has served in the Japanese Ministry of Finance and at the Bank of Japan.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Professor Grimes expects Prime Minister Abe’s policies on nationalism, military defense and his economic program called Abenomics to continue.

-Japan is one of the safest countries in the world with less than ten gun violence deaths per year in a population of 127 million people.

-Fran asks Bill to break down Japanese military capability following the WWII policy of pacifism and how Prime Minister Abe pushed to expand Japanese defensive military capability.

-Prime Minister Abe was keen on preventing Chinese encroachment in the region but also maintaining China as a strategic trade partner.

-Bill shares why Japan is critical to US influence in the Asia-Pacific region across economic, political and defense fronts; including the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

-Fran challenges Professor Grimes to define what it takes to be a great world leader.

-Bill provides the lesson of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and how just being a good person was the key to his success.

Quotes:

-”The Abe that we see after say 2013-2014 was a pragmatist, an internationalist.”

-”The basic story of Abe doesn’t disappear.”

-”Until China really started its naval build-up 10-15 years ago, Japan had arguably the second-most capable navy in the entire world.”

-”This goes way back with this desire to prevent Chinese encroachment and pressure.”

-”Japan is absolutely the linchpin of US Asia-Pacific strategy.”

-”Japan is becoming economically weaker relative to China.”

-”He learned…that’s not that easy to do…Learning is extraordinarily important.”

-“He was an extremely effective inside player.”

-”He was the one person in Japan…who had both the inside game and the outside game.”

-”Over eight years you make enough incremental change you changed the country.”

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, & Analytix Solutions.

Jumping In with Shure Microphones: Market Development Manager Laura Davidson (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Sat, 16 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Sound quality is the lifeblood of podcasting. Podfest finally gave Fran Racioppi the opportunity to meet someone from Shure in real life; even though he chose to exclusively use Shure products for The Jedburgh Podcast.

Fran and special guest co-host Juliet Hahn not only interview Shure’s Laura Davidson, but they also bought Shure’s newest portable microphone, the MV88+.

Laura shares the history of the company, how they are leading in microphone design and gives an inside look into what equipment is used to produce The Jedburgh Podcast and Your Next Stop.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Fran shares why he chose Shure Microphones for The Jedburgh Podcast and how Bay Eight Studios in Miami showed him just how easy it could be to set up and record in any location. (3:00)

-Laura provides the history of Shure, their commitment to building products to military specification, and their start in building microphones for fighter jets. (5:00)

-The Jedburgh Podcast uses the Shure SM7B; Laura provides the technical breakdown of the microphone and why it is so effective in isolating voice. (6:41)

-Laura explains the difference between a condenser microphone and a dynamic microphone. (8:07)

-Fran & Juliet talk about why they each bought Shure’s newest portable microphone the MV88+. (9:07)

Quotes:

-”We got our start making radio parts and microphones that then went into fighter pilot microphones.” (5:40)

-”After World War II we actually continued building to military spec…that’s kind of what sets us apart.” (5:57)

-”It’s just become kind of the standard for vocals, and speech, and music…Michael Jackson’s Thriller was recorded on an SM7.” (7:27)

-”The 88+ is great for content creators, run and gun interviews, or podcasting from the studio.” (9:25)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In with Katie Brinkley, Host of NFT Ninjas & Founder of Next Step Social Communications (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

NFTs, Blockchain, The Denver Broncos and morning traffic! Katie Brinkley, host of NFT Ninjas and Founder of Next Step Social Communications joins Fran Racioppi and special guest host Juliet Hahn for this Podfest conversation on building a podcast, branding and digital marketing. Plus Katie tested their knowledge of NFTs and Fran asked the question on all our minds…why is there so much traffic?

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Katie shares her entry into podcasting, love of audio and why voice platforms create a deeper connection between hosts and listeners. (6:24)

-Katie talks about her three podcasts: Rocky Mountain Marketing, Across the Pond NFL, & NFT Ninjas (13:17)

-Fran & Juliet test their knowledge of Web3, NFTs and Blockchain as Katie explains the difference and why we need to pay attention to their rise. (13:55)

-NFTs are providing access to communities and networks while increasing transparency in proof of ownership. (16:40)

-As host of Across the Pond NFL, Katie provides her outlook on the 2022 season for the Denver Broncos and the AFC West. (19:55)

-Fran asks Katie (a former traffic reporter) to explain why there is traffic and why people don’t understand the basic rules of the road. (22:43)

Quotes:

-“I’m an only child. As a kid growing up I would sit in my room and do radio shows.” (6:32)

-“There’s something authentic by hearing someone speak.” (9:39)

-“Non-fungible means I need to have that exact $20 bill back.” (15:14)

-”The only way I get access to that community is by owning an NFT.” (17:14)

-”I love the fact that we got Russell Wilson.” (20:31)

-”Most of the time that there is traffic is because people don’t know how to understand the basic rules of the road.” (22:50)

-”Everyone wants to see the weather. Everyone wants to see what’s going on with traffic.” (25:42)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In with Picked Cherries: Co-Founder Stuart Goffman (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

While at Podfest, Fran Racioppi and special guest co-host, Juliet Hahn, Jumped In with Stuart Goffman, Co-Founder of Picked Cherries to discuss how he is disrupting podcasting promotion, how a life-changing stroke in his mid-30’s gave him a new perspective, how a friend’s death has driven him to help others who suffer from addiction, and what it’s like to produce a reality TV show.

Take a listen, download Picked Cherries, and share your favorite part of this episode with all your friends. If you are not picking cherries, are you really listening to podcasts?

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Stuart explains the vision behind Picked Cherries and how the platform is streamlining the way listeners and podcasters share content they find engaging. (3:47)

-Picked Cherries bridges the gap between podcasters and listeners very much the same way that Co-Founder Jeff Hoffman built Priceline.com and Booking.com to bring travelers and hoteliers together. (5:38)

-Fran and Juliet explain from a podcasters perspective how Picked Cherries is solving the biggest challenge podcasters face when distributing content.” (7:27)

-Stuart suffered a massive stroke at 35 years old after taking a recalled medicine tablet after which he lost his speech and was paralyzed for over three months. (11:54)

-Stuart founded a rehabilitation center after losing his friend, Paul, to substance abuse. (16:44)

-Addiction Unplugged was a TV show on A&E started by Stuart to humanize the addiction and mental health of those struggling with substance abuse. (18:33)

Quotes:

-”Picked Cherries…I’m picking a 60 second clip called a Picked Cherry.” (4:48)

-”Share podcasts like never before.” (7:16)

-”You are solving one of the biggest challenges that podcasters have.” (7:27)

-”We took an isolated event…listening to podcasts…and made it a shared experience.” (9:09)

-”I had a major stroke. It took me about three months to say anything.” (13:26)

-”It humbled me. Apparently I was a little bit arrogant.” (13:46)

-”As an entrepreneur I wanted to learn and then help people.” (18:20)

-”Everybody’s voice needs to be heard.” (20:03)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#067: Podfest 2022 - Podcast Hosts Larry Roberts, Michael O'Neal, and Jennifer & Paul Henczel

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 08:11:00 GMT

Podfest is the world’s largest community of podcasters. This year, host Fran Racioppi was invited to speak at, and emcee, the military track, so he invited our guest from Episode 53 (and fellow Podfest speaker) Juliet Hahn to co-host a combined Jedburgh Podcast - Your Next Stop series of Podfest episodes.

In this Podfest compilation Fran and Juliet sat down with Podfest Newsletter Editor Larry Roberts, longtime podcast host & creator Michael O’Neal, and podcasting couple Jennifer & Paul Henczel to talk Podfest, branding, interviewing, YouTube and how being crushed alive led to a career in podcasting.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Larry explains how Podfest has grown from a small group of podcast hosts sharing their best practices to a Guinness Book of World Records record-holder for event size. (7:45)

-Fran and Juliet ask Larry to explain his branding and why it is important to develop and live a unique quality that stands out. (10:45)

-Larry discusses the importance of sticking with your passion, being adaptable, learning and his new show Bitcoin Impact. (16:25)

-Michael shares how to compete in podcasting and the balance between providing value and being an entertainer. (26:30)

-Fran, Juliet and Michael discuss the importance of interview preparation, guest experience and how to ask questions that foster deeper conversation. (30:39)

-Michael describes the challenge YouTube poses to content creators and shares his lessons on how to build a channel without “friends, fakes or family.” (38:00)

-Paul was crushed alive by 12,000 lbs of wood in a workplace accident, changing his life, his relationship with Jennifer, and bringing him to international speaking. (50:48)

-Fran, Juliet, Jennifer & Paul discuss parenting and how working together has brought Jennifer & Paul closer together; especially after Paul’s accident. (1:07:51)

Quotes:

- “I’ve landed speaking gigs because of the red hat.” (12:04)

- “Find that one thing that stands out and own it. Live it. Be it.” (13:38)

- “Find your niche. Find your drive. Find your desire. And find your message.” (17:22)

- “If someone’s gonna flip over from NPR to my show, I don’t want there to be a drop off.” (27:09)

- “I focused on being interested and not interesting.” (30:21)

- “You’ve got to use the platform in the way that the platform was designed.” (40:16)

- “My journey actually started with my traumatic near-death workplace accident where I was crushed by 12,000 lbs of wood.” (50:48)

- “That’s what my story did. It took me from injured mill worker to international speaker.” (54:03)

- “We’ve always very decisively chosen to stay positive.” (1:08:52)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#066: Abacus Wealth Partners - Co-Founder Spencer Sherman

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Money is always on our minds. Abacus Wealth Partners Co-Founder Spencer Sherman joins Fran Racioppi to discuss money, how we think about it, what we do with it, and where the economy is going.

Spencer oversees $4B in assets. He is the author of The Cure For Money Madness and the creator of Fearless Finance, a course designed to teach us how to effectively manage and handle our views and decisions about our money.

He abides by Buddhist principles and the simple concept that the road to financial freedom is long and boring. Take a listen then check out Spencer's courses to unleash your money wisdom at S pencer-Sherman.com.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Why the topic of money is taboo. (5:45)

-Spencer’s entry into financial advisory to become an ally of the client vs a salesman of financial products. (8:13)

-A fire destroyed Spencer’s first firm. He re-entered the building to save his client files and changing his life. (11:17)

-Fran asks Spencer to apply the core teachings of Buddhism to financial planning: Impermanence, Mindfulness, Equanimity, Interdependence/Interconnectedness. (28:18)

-Spencer explains how simplicity in your portfolio is the key to long term wealth and why women are outperforming men in portfolio management. (37:46)

-Emotional intelligence is essential to financial decisions and includes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. (45:31)

-Fearless Finance: Financial Freedom on the Road to Enough is Spencer’s new course; determining your inner compass, overcoming fear, why we must think about death, how to define “enough” and the importance of generosity. (51:21 & 1:22:46)

-Spencer defines the four negative emotions that lead to lost money: anxiety, envy, shame or fear, selfishness. (1:06:38)

Quotes:

-”We have this idea that my self worth is equal to my net worth.”

-”I know that the most important thing in my life is in that building…and if I don’t get it I know that my life is worthless.”

-”Meditation is this training for the mind.”

-”Mindfulness is really about being present with what’s happening and letting go of any judgment.”

-”Have a boring portfolio. Live an exciting life.”

-”If all of us could take on that beginner's mind, the world just opens up.”

- “The problem with going for more and more and more is it trains our brain to be in a place of scarcity, a place of fear because we’re never arriving.”

-“We’re actually thinking that we need more to get happy, when really we can be happy right now.”

-”I think more about what’s possible.”

Spencer’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Sit quietly to center self

-Take a cold shower to shock the system

-Complete a compassion practice

-Spencer’s bonus: journal then throw it out so you write anything down without hesitation

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

#065: Holding Hands - Author & Photographer Diane Conn

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Over the last seven years Diane Conn has taken tens of thousands of pictures of people holding hands. As the COVID-19 pandemic broke apart so much of the fiber of our community she was motivated to put her pictures into a book, called Holding Hands, showing us all just how important holding hands actually is in our lives.

Fran Racioppi sits down with Diane to discuss the impact the loss of her mother to suicide had on her. She shared her battles with depression and a severe concussion that changed her outlook on life. And she talked about the film industry, her late husband, Mace, and how she captures pictures of total strangers holding hands in New York City.

Take a listen to our conversation then check out our YouTube, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to Fran and Diane searching for the perfect shot.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Fran asks Diane to define connection and the power of touch; yet why we never touch for long. (5:04)

-Diane describes her process for taking photos from behind and how her technique has only gotten her caught once. (8:08)

-The science behind holding hands has a medical explanation and benefits to our entire emotional physiological system. (11:10)

-Fran and Diane break down Holding Hands (and Diane’s life) into its three sections: Childhood, Love Together; as well as Diane’s key words for each of these parts of our life. (15:10)

-Diane’s mother died by suicide throwing Diane into a blackness and depression that lasted much of her life, bringing her to her own thoughts of suicide. (19:43)

-The movie industry has been a big part of Diane’s life as she worked in film finance, met her husband (Mace) working on the set of Patriot Games with Harrison Ford and spent a career in Hollywood production. (29:01)

-Diane explains how Mace, a Pulizter runner-up, taught her photography and what makes the perfect photo. (30:30)

-A blackout concussion five years ago resulted in a year straight of headaches, dizziness and a relapse of severe depression. (38:50)

Quotes:

-”People don’t hold hands for long…There’s not one case where people just kept on walking for blocks and blocks and never let go.”

-”I don’t want to look at their faces and I don’t want to see the front of them.”

-”Sometimes there are unique hand holds that you can’t even imagine.”

-”That hunger for connection has driven humans forever.”

-”It never occurred to me that I wouldn't have two parents.” )

-“I spent, in my head, the next 25 years trying to save her. Trying to figure out how to rewind time.”

-”He taught me how to see that one shot.”

-”Even in that state, I felt better when I looked at the photos of people holding hands.”

-”We all need somebody.”

Diane’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Mediate in the morning no matter what

-Exercise

-Connect with somebody

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions

Jumping In with Wodapalooza's Aaron Anderson - VP of Business Development at Loud and Live (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

For the final conversation of the 2022 GORUCK Games Fran Racioppi asked Aaron Anderson, the VP of Biz Dev at Loud & Live to join him for a discussion on Wodapalooza. Taking place in Downtown Miami in January, Wodapalooza hosts over 3000 athletes and over 45k fans. Competitors range from the elite to the regular joe.

Aaron breaks down the different events, provides his opinion of what the future has in store for the fitness industry, the importance of gratitude and gratification and why the best part of working out is being done.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Aaron and Fran breakdown Wodapalooza’s history, the community it builds and the inclusivity around it’s variety of events. (3:20)

-Wodapalooza allows athletes of all levels to come to Miami in January to participate at their level on the same course. (4:40)

-Aaron shares his history in producing live events and the excitement behind them. (9:40)

-The evolution of functional fitness is changing the fitness industry, competition and how Wodapalooza designs the competition. (14:15)

-Fran asks Aaron to predict where the fitness industry is going and what we can expect in the next phase of working out. (16:00)

-Aaron defines the need to balance functional fitness, bodybuilding and endurance work.” (18:18)

Quotes:

-”Wodapalooza is focused on the community of fitness.”

-”It doesn’t have to happen on the competition floor. It can be cerebral.”

-”Under the Miami lights. Under the neon lights.”

-”There’s very few of these athletes where this is a hundred percent their day job.”

-“They're not just there to compete, collect a check and go home.”

-”The best part about my workout is when I’m done."

-”Keeping the event unique is always a very exciting challenge.”

-“If we can continue to create that wow moment, then we are doing a good job.”

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#064: Mike Vallely - Founder of Street Plant Skateboards & Lead Singer of Black Flag

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Some icons dominate multiple industries, leaving their mark not on just one part of society, but on all of society. Mike Vallely is the Founder of Street Plant Skateboards and the lead singer of rock band Black Flag.

Mike revolutionized the way society embraces skateboarding and skateboarding culture while he built a side career as a singer, playing with some of punk’s greatest artists.

Mike joined Fran Racioppi on the last day of the GORUCK Games to share his personal story, how he had to borrow skateboards to teach himself to ride, why going as hard as you can whenever you have a chance is a recipe for success, and what he has learned leading generations of punk rockers and skateboarders to skate, create and enjoy.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Mike shares his decision to become “punk” (5:58)

-Mike describes his entry into skateboarding after viewing a Thrasher magazine and accepting a challenge to jump off a car. (9:35)

-Street skating was pioneered as Mike went pro with Powell-Peralta and has evolved across culture, proficiency and skateboard design. (28:24)

-Fran asks Mike to describe the creativity and expression behind skateboard artwork, including his first design, the African Elephant. (38:50)

-Mike discusses his entrepreneurial journey, finding support from his daughter to start Street Plant Skateboards.” (49:02)

-Mike’s music career spans Mike V and The Rats, his love for Black Flag and a childhood run in with Henry Rollins. (55:00)

-Greg Ginn, the founding member of Blag Flag, showed him the importance of partnership. (1:07:57)

-Mike shares his upcoming schedules with Black Flag, The Complete Disaster, Revolution Mother & The Morning Trail, as well as a collaboration with GORUCK. (1:26:35)

Quotes:

-”It was when I started skating that I felt that I actually took my first real breaths.”

-”That’s cool, come with us. The coolest words ever f***ing spoken to me.”

-”My life before that moment was in black and white, or sepia tone. And then I saw these pictures of guys skating in the streets.”

-”I would crunch down into the 30 seconds what they had spent all day doing…I would just go animalistic on the thing.”

-”I wasn’t going to take what I was being handed. I had to have it my way.”

-”But when I started my company it was a purposeful return to being very sincere and earnest in creating boards that had a heart and soul.”

-“All I really needed was a little help and a little encouragement…and someone to believe in me.”

-”Rise Above became the mantra of my life.”

-”You can do anything you want in this life. They just proved it right in front of me.”

-“If the well of inspiration is there, you tap into it.”

Mike’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Skate: take action and do something

-Create: bring artistic expression and be free

-Enjoy: love what you are doing

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

Jumping In with Alpha Elite Performance Founder & Green Beret Travis Wilson (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Fran Racioppi had the chance to Jump In with Alpha Elite Performance Founder Travis Wilson while covering Sandlot Jax and the GORUCK Games. Alpha Elite Performance is a supplement company dedicated to the Special Operations Truth #2: quality is more important than quantity.

Travis and Fran catch up on their time in 10th Special Forces Group, Travis shares his motivation to start Alpha Elite Performance, and how his new sleep aid is making an impact across the supplement industry.

They also talk about the lessons learned from his nine deployments, the importance of integrity and being honest, raw and flawed; and how a canopy collapse during a night training jump changed his life.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Travis shares the vision behind Alpha Elite Performance and how he started the company based on quality over quantity. (4:47)

-GBNT Sleep is the latest release in the line of Alpha Elite Performance products and is helping people get the REM sleep they need. (5:49)

-ODA Supergreens detoxes the body. (7:36)

-Travis entered the military to follow in his parents footsteps, serving first as a medic in the Army before being selected for Special Forces. (8:28)

-Travis describes how the integrity and character he learned in the military are applied to his entrepreneurial efforts. (11:35)

-Fran asks Travis to share what he has learned from his parachuting accident which resulted in 13 surgeries and a new take on life. (13:10)

-Travis describes what it means to be honest, raw and flawed; and how at 47 he is still learning. (17:21)

-Fran & Travis reminisce about being on the same base in Iraq, FOB Paliwoda, during 2005-2006 and the type of combat operations they conducted there. (20:41)

-Rally & Recover is the newest oral rehydration supplement by Alpha Elite Performance. (23:45)

-Travis reveals the upcoming event trailer that is about to launch. (25:17)

Quotes:

-”It’s not my first time in the back of an FLA with another man.” (3:47)

-”There has to be a problem and we come up with that solution” (5:45)

-”I wanted to be in the Air Force. I wanted to be a PJ like my Dad.” (8:38)

-“I just always wanted to be more than what I was. (10:17)

-”Your reputation precedes you and integrity goes along with that.” (12:36)

-”They said it sounded like two rocks slapping together when I hit the ground.” (14:08)

-”I haven’t grown, but I’ve just decided to keep moving.” (17:05)

-“I think that we’re all flawed. I haven’t been perfect.” (17:30)

-”I’m 47 years old…I’m still learning from the things I messed up in life.” (18:05)

-”If you didn’t get hit on the way down, you were getting hit on the way out.” (23:03)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#063: The Ready State - Co-Founder Dr. Kelly Starrett

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 08:23:00 GMT

Mobility is one of those areas where preparation can’t be faked and it can’t be shortcutted. While down at Sandlot Jax and the GORUCK Games Fran Racioppi sits down with Dr. Kelly Starrett, Co-Founder of The Ready State, bestselling author, and physical trainer for many of the most elite athletes in professional and olympic sports for a conversation on movement, mobility and human performance.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Longevity is something everyone can work towards and not something that requires money or access to special resources. (4:00)

-Our daily routine affords us opportunities to adjust our behavior to get more out of each activity; such as sitting on the floor vs the coch, or fidgeting vs remaining still. (7:32)

-Kelly forces Fran to define stretching and mobility in his own terms and puts him on the spot to understand his own bad habits and longevity-limiting practices. (7:50)

-Training is about challenging positions in a way that stresses your systems in a variety of different environments. (14:30)

-Kelly compares the ease of extending the longevity of professional athletes to our military service men and women; explaining the ease by which we can extend the service-lives of our operators if we focus on mobility. (18:50)

-Fran asks Kelly to describe how we ingrain performance longevity principles into youth athletes and junior leaders. (24:55)

-Pain is the ultimate diagnostic tool and indicator of performance potential; Kelly describes how to use pain in the development of fitness and nutrition programs. (30:01)

-Kelly explains how constraining our environment to do the right thing allows for ease of decision-making and removes the reliance on will-power. (46:16)

Quotes:

-”How do we come out unharmed…or less unharmed…really with the view of being 100.” (4:05)

-”Position is the root of everything. Do you have access to your positions and shapes.” (5:11)

-”How do I get seven bottom lines out of a single practice.” (7:21)

-”Let me ask you this…do you stretch…no you don’t.” (7:58)

-“If position is the thing, then I’m using exercise and training to challenge position.” (13:42)

-”Speed is the great arbiter…speed is the sport of position.” (14:19)

-”Resting state of the human being is pain free… let’s use pain as a diagnostic tool.” (30:15)

-”People are durable…and we don’t have to get it right the first time. We just have to get it right, better, tomorrow.” (38:07)

-”Supple Leopard was this idea…let’s just give you your access back.” (39:36)

-”Oftentimes I’m trying to constrain the environment so I don’t have to make another choice.” (46:17)

Kelly’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Protect sleep to maximize potential

-Walk around and move more throughout the day to decongest tissues

-Eat enough fruits, vegetables and proteins

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

Jumping In with F45 Training: Military Director Michael Nichols (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:52:00 GMT

F45 Training debuted their new training trailer at Sandlot Jax right next to The Jedburgh Podcast. After a day of watching group after group pushing themselves to the limit, host Fran Racioppi brought Michael Nichols, the F45 Director of Military Operations into the Land Rover Ambulance for a discussion on F45, working alongside Mark Wahlberg, and their newly launched Veteran Impact Program.

Mike and Fran also discussed Mike’s career in the Marines and how fitness, and F45, gave him a new purpose in life after his military career. Take a listen then check out our YouTube page as Mike gives Fran the grand tour of the trailer before enjoying some Jersey Mike’s Subs.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-F45 currently has 3300 studios in 67 countries across the globe; including Iraq and Afghanistan. (3:20)

-Mike transitioned from a career in the Marine Corps to leading a convenience store franchise, something he knew nothing about, but pursued with an open mind and willingness to learn. (4:35)

-Mike shares his entrepreneurial story of building a fitness business while working at the Department of Veteran Affairs. (7:40)

-The F45 Veteran Impact Program consists of five initiatives: Provide employment opportunities; DOD Skillbridge program; DOL-approved Master Fitness Trainer Program; Franchise ownership; Place an F45 training program on every military base. (13:05)

-Mike’s three daily foundations of success consist of waking up early, working out and giving thanks. (22:30)

-F45’s investment in software technology and optimization is a differentiator in scaling fitness programs across all franchise locations. (26:20)

Quotes:

-”Don’t let what you can’t do stop you from what you can do.” (6:32)

-”Be committed, not inspired.” (8:26)

-”F45 brings people together for the common cause, which is fitness, and they build a community around it.” (10:23)

-”The long term goal is to place an F45 training solution on every military installation around the globe.” (16:26)

-”We are partnering with MWR/MCCS to provide them combat readiness solutions.” (17:33)

-”We can’t help every service man and woman, but every starfish that we can grab and throw back in the water…we are changing the game.” (24:35)

-”Failure is inevitable, progress is optional.” (27:41)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#062: Sean Lake - Co-Founder of BUBS Naturals, Professional Athlete, Marketing Executive

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Sean Lake and Glen Doherty grew up best friends, teammates and roommates as they chased their childhood dreams of adventure. Glen became a Navy SEAL. Sean became a professional athlete and marketing executive at Burton Snowboards and DC Shoes.

In 2012, Glen lost his life in Libya defending American interests and freedom. To honor Glen, Sean helped launch the Glen Daugherty Memorial Foundation. Sean co-founded BUBS Naturals as a tribute to his best friend, Glen "BUB" Doherty, who was heroically killed in Benghazi. They produce supplements for athletes, the Boston Red Sox, and just about anyone who has pain in their body and joints.

Host Fran Racioppi and Sean Lake hop into the back of the Land Rover Ambulance at Sandlot Jax to talk about Glen, their life together as extreme athletes, the importance of collagen protein and MCT Oil, and what it means to truly live in the service of others. Take a listen, then try Sean's morning routine for a clear mind, from meditation to lemon water.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-The value of collagen on the body, its effect on youthfulness and longevity, and how it improves joint and gut health. (3:00)

-Sean breaks down the components of collagen, what it’s made of and why it’s important to supplement our diets. (7:50)

-BUB Naturals gives 10% back to The Glen Doherty Foundation.

-Glen and Sean were both fueled by adrenaline and extreme sports as they moved to Utah to become pro skiers and snowboarders. (12:10)

-As Glen went on to become a Navy SEAL, Sean worked for Burton Snowboards alongside the biggest names in extreme sports like Shaun White and Tony Hawk. Sean later worked for DC Shoes. (13:50)

-The fitness community is built on shared hard moments; something GORUCK and CrossFit have set the example for. (19:57)

-Fran asks Sean to expand on his first foundation of daily success and explain how he meditates each day. (41:00)

-Sean talks about the importance of responding vs reacting to situations. (41:56)

Quotes:

-”Joint health. Gut health. Sign me up for the joint health.” (4:31)

-”The amount of amino acids that’s in collagen is through the roof.” (8:03)

-“Whatever we do, we gotta do something cool for charity.” (9:17)

-”If I haven’t made it as a pro skier by the time I’m 25, I’m gonna join the Navy and become a SEAL.” (13:14)

-”If you knew him, and you guys cracked a beer; Fran he’s your best friend.” (17:25)

-”When you choose a hard moment, you’re truly seeing what you are capable of.” (22:30)

-”You have to suck; and then gradually you learn a new skill.” (24:50)

-”Little known fact…we are the collagen provider for the Boston Red Sox.” (37:17)

-”I want to build a life where I am responding to situations.” (41:57)

Sean’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Active meditation to establish focus

-Make the bed to complete one task

-Drink a warm glass of lemon water before anything else

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

Jumping In with United War Veterans Council (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 30 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The United War Veterans Council is the keeper of the New York City Veterans Day parade. Their lineage dates back to the Spanish American War of 1898. Today they are led by Veterans of modern conflicts, Executive Director Mark Otto and Chairman Nick Angione. Host Fran Racioppi had the privilege to serve as the UWVC Treasure and emcee of the parade in 2018 and 2019.

Mark, Nick and Fran Jump In for a conversation on the parade, the history of UWVC, their careers as devil-dogs and what it means to continue to serve our veteran community through health and wellness programs.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-UWVC organizes and manages the Veteran’s Day Parade in New York City; a tradition that dates back to the armistice of World War I. (3:00)

-Mark and Nick share the history of the parade, how Vince McGowan saved it from failure and the size it has grown to today. (4:00)

-Nick shares his career in the Marines. (5:58)

-In addition to the parade, UWVC runs a Health and Wellness program designed to aid any Veteran in need through integrating them into a community of other Veterans. (7:58)

-Mark shares his the incredible story of his birth to an American soldier father and Vietnamese mother during the Vietnam War Tet Offensive. (10:10)

-Mark recounts his service during the Powell Doctrine days in some of history's most prominent conflicts: Panama, Grenada, Desert Storm and the Border Wars. (14:21)

-Mark carried the American Flag for 1000 miles to raise money and bring awareness to Veteran mental health. (17:02)

-Fran, Mark and Nick discuss why meaningful relationships are the core of community building. (19:10)

-UWVC provides the much needed connection to others that many Veterans lost when they left service; including partnership with Jon Bon Jovi. (23:20)

Quotes:

-”It’s the largest parade in the country that honors Veteran service.” (4:51-Mark)

-”Though we didn’t do things at the same time, we did a lot of the same things.” (6:29-Nick)

-”Our commitment to service is not just about celebrating Veterans on Veterans Day. It being able to outreach to the most needing of Veterans.” (8:07-Nick)

-”I am a war child. I was actually conceived in Vietnam.” (10:19-Mark)

-”You also have a nickname though…you are Green Beret Burrito Guy.” (18:55-Mark)

-”Everyone who’s here…to help the team…is here because I asked them.” (20:54-Fran)

-”They’re just not used to someone saying ‘hey, thank you.’” (27:16-Nick)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#061: Earl Granville - Obstacle Course Racer, Marathon Runner, Triathlete, Combat Wounded Veteran

Thu, 26 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Earl Granville is an obstacle course athlete, marathon runner, triathlete, and speaker. He ran for Congress. He has won numerous awards for his kindness and generosity. And he is a disabled Veteran. Earl lost his left leg in Afghanistan in roadside bomb attack. Earl’s twin brother Joe, his best friend, died by suicide while serving on active duty in 2010.

Earl joins host Fran Racioppi in the back of the WWII British Royal Air Force Land Rover Ambulance to talk about resiliency, drive, and adaptability. Earl has had every reason in life to close up, go internal and quit. Yet he wakes up every day with a purpose. He wakes up with the goal of never quitting, learning from his past and helping others define their path in life.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-Earl joined the Army to get free college when 9/11 occurred 11 days into his basic training experience changing his perspective on service to the nation. (7:12)

-Volunteering to go to Iraq showed Earl that the military is about serving each other, not yourself. (10:30)

-Earl describes in detail the decisions and events that led to the loss of his leg in Afghanistan. (14:21)

-Rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Medical Center was over 18 months long, testing every part of Earl’s mental and physical strength. (27:30)

-Earl’s brother Joe died by suicide pushing him into severe depression. (31:00)

-CrossFit, obstacle course racing and marathon running became a passion for Earl after Joe’s death. (36:15)

-Operation Enduring Warrior & the Oscar Mike Foundation afford Earl the opportunity to help other wounded and disabled Veterans identify and achieve their goals. (38:30)

-Earl explains why he carries Cindy (a cinder block with chains) to symbolize strength through adversity. (44:08)

-The 3P’s and the recipe to find them. (46:45)

Quotes:

-”I was one of those guys that literally joined the National Guard for college…my mindset was ‘what can this do for me.’” (7:13)

-”Going to Iraq, I realized this isn’t about me. It’s about us.” (11:09)

-“My feet are backwards and I’m full of blood….we just hit a roadside bomb.” (18:26)

-”I said to him ‘don’t let me die alone.’’” (19:14)

-”How could I get this second chance at life and have my own twin brother take his away.” (30:55)

-”You got to run across the finish line. You don’t walk.” (37:13)

-”OEW helped me through that Spartan Race; however, now I’m gonna help other people.” (40:55)

-”Cindy is a reminder that we don’t have to carry the weight by ourselves. We all carry this together.“ (46:00)

-”You must have a purpose. You have to have a passion. And you must be part of something bigger than yourselves.” (46:45)

Earl’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Meditation

-Journaling

-Physical fitness

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

Jumping In with The Green Beret Foundation & 18A Fitness (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Mon, 23 May 2022 09:13:00 GMT

De Oppresso Liber. The motto of the Green Berets. To free the oppressed. The standard for excellence, the commitment to mission and the bonds developed through the hardest times define the Special Forces Regiment.

While down at Sandlot Jax and the Go Ruck Games host Fran Racioppi Jumps In with Brent Cooper, Executive Director of the Green Beret Foundation, and Kevin Edgerton, Founder of 18A Fitness, to discuss the mission of The Green Beret Foundation, their focus on supporting Green Berets of every generation and conflict, the Next Ridgeline military transition program and GBF’s recent accreditation by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Special thanks to our partners Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective for donating the Defender ambulance and supporting our live recording at Sandlot.

Get involved and donate to the Green Beret Foundation to support our Special Forces past and present.

Learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website and check out our video YouTube versions of all episodes here.

Highlights:

-Green Beret Foundation’s Pineland Initiative has expanded support to Green Beret’s of all generations and conflicts. (3:50)

-Brent discusses the program pillars including casualty support, health and wellness, family support and transition support. (8:08)

-GBF has recently been accredited by the Department of Veterans affairs. (12:48)

-GBF now has a Veteran Service Representative in each of the Special Forces Groups focused on supporting transitioning Green Berets in their VA disability claims. (13:15)

-Fran, Brent and Kevin reminisce about their days in Special Forces as Brent shares his career story from the civilian world into the military. (16:00)

-Brent talks about the expectation of excellence within Special Forces and how the community expects GBF to live that standard each day. (23:43)

-The Wall of Honor at GBF headquarters honors all 192 fallen Green Berets since 9/11. (27:46)

Quotes:

-”If we’re not growing, we’re dying…we were just helping the same amount of Green Berets each year. But for me, that’s not enough.” (4:45)

-”Since inception we have helped over 15,000 families.” (9:48)

-”The bloodline of Special Forces is our community. That brotherhood.” (11:39)

-”We are the only SOF benevolent organization that is accredited by the VA.” (12:52)

-“We ensure that all of our fallen brothers are honored. Never forgotten” (15:17)

-”The Green Beret Foundation was looking for a new executive director. And it was like, in an instant, 20 years of my life made sense.“ (18:55)

-“The most important thing on any team is trust.”(21:31)

-”That’s what our community expects. Anything less is a failure on our part.” (23:52)

-“You walk in there and you see your friends on there. You see your brothers on there.” (28:12)

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#060: Josh Bridges - Navy SEAL, CrossFit Athlete & Founder Of Good Dudes Coffee

Thu, 19 May 2022 09:34:00 GMT

Serving in Special Operations doesn’t require special abilities or superhuman powers. It requires an adherence to a standard that most people don’t have the discipline to enforce.

In our first long-form episode at Sandlot Jax and the GORUCK Games, Host Fran Racioppi sat down with Josh Bridges, Former Navy SEAL, Crossfit Athlete, Creator of the Pay Him fitness program and Founder of Good Dudes Coffee.

Josh and Fran talk the importance of not putting goals on pedestals; training not until you get it right, but until you can’t get it wrong; how the fear of failure or inability to do something motivated Josh to train harder and with more focus; and the difference between training hard and training to win. Josh shares his entrepreneurial adventure into the coffee business with Good Dudes Coffee.

In partnership with Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective who provided the WWII British Royal Air Force Land Rover Ambulance Podcast Studio.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-How college wrestling prepared Josh for the Navy SEALs and instilled in him a sense of discipline and work ethic.

-Lacking direction and losing himself during his college years resulted in Josh quitting athletics and becoming a loan officer.

-Josh reminisces about knowing nothing about the Navy SEALS growing up and the importance of not putting goals on a pedestal that becomes too high to reach.

-There is nothing special about being special forces. Becoming a Navy SEAL or competing at the highest levels is not due to superpowers or superhuman capability; it comes down to hard work, discipline and drive.

-Josh talks about the need to enjoy the process it takes to prepare ourselves to achieve a result and the discipline needed to train until you can’t get it wrong.

-Josh launched Good Dudes coffee with the intent to “go pro” by providing a high quality product with good people doing cool things.

Quotes:

-”Wrestling was a demanding sport. I always said college wrestling was harder than BUDS.”

-”He was like ‘I’m going to go be a Navy SEAL’ and I was like ‘what’s that?’”

-”Lesser men than you have come and gone and made it through this course; so why can’t you?”

-“It’s a mindset going into it. If that guy can do it, so can I.”

-”I trained so much harder than I knew the competition would be, so that when competition came there was never even a question.”

-”Sweat in training so you don’t have to bleed in war.”

-”If you don’t enjoy the process, the process that takes you to those places, you’re never going to get to those places anyway.”

-”I’m not gonna do it until I get it right. I’m gonna do it until I can’t get it wrong.”

-”Winners work really really hard and think they didn’t do enough.”

-”People who are awesome, doing awesome stuff out there, and they like really good coffee.”

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#059: Sandlot Jax - GORUCK Games Champions Hunter McIntyre & Katie Knight, Sandlot Technology Co-Founder BJ Naedele, GORUCK Head of Community Emily McCarthy, Gold Star Spouse Sara Wilkinson

Thu, 12 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The Jedburgh Podcast goes on location to the 1st GORUCK Games & the Sandlot Jax Fitness Festival. This compilation episode is the first of 12 interviews with some of the most prominent personalities in fitness and entrepreneurship; all recorded in the back of a WWII Land Rover British Royal Air Force Ambulance in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

Host Fran Racioppi shares the GORUCK Games story as he talks to the winners, veteran Hunter McIntyre and newcomer Katie Knight. They discuss their fitness journeys as Katie transitions from ultramarathons to obstacle course racing and Hunter candidly shares how fitness helped him win his battle with drug addiction.

Fran also brings in the Co-Founder of Sandlot Technology BJ Naedele to explain how the Sandlot Fit app is democratizing fitness and breaking down the barriers between trainers and trainees. Finally, Fran learns from GORUCK’s Head of Community Emily McCarthy & Gold Star Spouse Sara Wilkinson how the vision for Sandlot Jax became a reality.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website. Check out our video versions on YouTube.

Highlights:

-BJ talks about building four fitness apps at Nike and how he has applied that knowledge to building Sandlot Fit to bring trainers and trainees together to streamline the fitness journey.

-Emily & Sara describe the birth of Sandlot Jax and the GORUCK Games.

-Sara & Fran reminisce about completing Chad1000X and preview the Boston Frogman Swim.

-Emily shares the tough days of building GORUCK and the vision behind Sandlot.

-Katie comes from an ultramarathon background having just entered obstacle course racing; Hunter is a seasoned Veteran with 100+ podiums and several world records.

-Hunter shares his personal journey balancing raw potential with emotion, not being accepted into the Navy, and how addiction to heroin shaped his mindset.

Quotes:

-”To unite and democratize fitness.” (BJ)

-”It’s good to stick with something and not give up on it.” (Emily)

-”By far the most brutal experience was that ruck. The twelve mile ruck is not fair to any human being; even fit human beings.” (Hunter)

-”I like to go after titles that I really have a connection with.” (Katie)

-”To be the best in the world you really have to stay in your lane.” (Hunter)

-”My kind of saving grace was coming out of drug use and getting back into athletics.” (Hunter)

-”I had to have that moment where I had a loss and I realized the difference between greatness and myself was that I was doing drugs.” (Hunter)

-”My purpose and passion is really getting people to be where they want to be.” (Katie)

Katie Knight’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Work hard

-Focus on what’s important

-Love everyone

Hunter McIntyre’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Do tons of research

-Assess yourself honestly and raw

-Push your limits in way that helps you grow

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions, Jaguar Land Rover of Fairfield and The Readiness Collective.

#058: Palantir - Global Defense Lead Doug Philippone

Thu, 05 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Data is the ammunition of the future. What we do with that data, how we understand and interpret it, and the decisions we make with it are what make data the most powerful tool in the modern day arsenal of both countries and companies.

Host Fran Racioppi sits down with Doug Philippone, Global Defense Lead for Palantir, to define big data as a decision-making tool. As a former Army Ranger and West Point graduate, Doug started and has led Palantir's Global Defense division to scale while competing with some of the world's largest defense contractors.

Doug shares Palantir's rise, the hole in the market they've exploited, the challenges they've faced breaking into the government procurement system, why a technology strategy is not IT Transformation, and how AI and ML are changing the world order.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Data is the lifeblood of any organization or country. Doug explains how data is used in decision-making and the differences between enterprise software and data harnessing.

-Doug lives by the mantra “a lifetime of service to the nation” describing his career as an Army Ranger and transition to Palantir to develop tools to enhance the effectiveness of the military.

-Doug credits his parents with developing a rebel spirit inside him as he provides his lessons in figuring out ways to win in complex situations.

-Risk-based decision-making is the end result of data aggregation and analysis; Fran & Doug discuss General Stan McChrystal’s Risk Immune System from Episode 34 and how data enhances a leader’s ability to classify and understand risk in their environment.

-The entrepreneurial spirit is changing the way the government conducts the procurement process, allowing for increased commercial technologies.

-Doug shares the importance of investing in technology start-ups that create impact and shape the future.

Quotes:

-”Why does data matter? It’s when it's turned into information that you can make decisions on.” (7:34)

-“We make the architecture that moves the data around and protects it so that you can make informed decisions.” (9:56)

-“Where did this information come from? Why do you know it?” (21:52)

-”You're seldom trained for the thing that you are having to do.” (30:46)

-”If you do something useful or you're producing outcomes, people will leave you alone.” (33:39)

-”The closest that a civilian will come to war is living in the startup world where you have to figure it out.” (34:35)

-”That’s the challenge of modern warfare. You're trying to make the best decision as quick as you can.” (37:53)

-”Err on the side of just doing something and be bold.” (39:36)

-”In software, we’re the best in the world…period…and second is like ten levels behind us.” (57:07)

-”You have to make a decision, a really important decision, before this happens…or else you already lost.” (1:00:57)

-“How do you process it in a way that you can make a meaningful decision in a time period where it actually still matters.” (1:01:57)

Doug’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Focus on your superpower

-Focus on what moves the needle

-Focus on what it takes to win

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions .

#057: The Performance Curve - Dr. Laura Watkins

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 09:43:00 GMT

What if we could have both high performance and well-being. What if we could look back having achieved our goals and having enjoyed the process.

Host Fran Racioppi is joined by Dr. Laura Watkins, author of the recently released book The Performance Curve, Co-Founder at The Cognitas Group & Jumpstart Development, and former McKinsey consultant. Laura advises some of the world's most high-profile leaders in finding the balance between performance and well-being by living on The Performance Curve instead of the Boom-and-Bust Curve.

Laura and Fran break down The Performance Curve along its three catalysts, define the inner operating system, talk about vertical development and paradoxical thinking, and explain the benefits of living in Explore Mode instead of Protect Mode.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The performance curve is our ability to perform effectively while also maintaining our well-being.

-The Boom-and-Bust curve is “crisis-triggered effectiveness.”

-The inner operating system is composed of three catalysts: wisdom, fuel & communication.

-Mindsets, emotions and habits form our default attitudes towards life and challenges.

-Habits are the foundation of our actions in different situations; how we train and develop habits affect our effectiveness and performance.

-Laura shares how the “iceberg” exercise helps identify behaviors, habits and hidden drivers.

-Performance rests in our ability to remain in an ‘explore’ state instead of a ‘protect’ state.”

-Mindset can be broken into ‘accountable, growth and big picture’ attitudes.

-Laura’s five-step process to building a series of micro-habits which become long-lasting, life-changing behaviors.

-Paradoxical thinking unlocks performance more than binary thinking.

Quotes:

-”We spend a lot of time pushing ourselves to perform, but often it comes at the cost of our well-being.” (4:40)

-”How can I actually show up better or differently to this meeting to get a slightly different result?” (9:11)

-”Emotion equals energy in motion.” (13:07)

-”The key is that we are able to recognize an emotion.” (15:00)

-”The performance curve is a way of being able to survive and thrive in the VUCA world.” (24:30)

-“This isn't about having a feedback culture, it's about having a learning culture, a development culture, and those mindsets that go with it.” (40:51)

-”We’re never going to get our habit 100% right. We’re always going to make mistakes.” (58:30)

Laura’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Monitor balance between protect and explore state

-Practice developmental relationships

-Make sure those you care about know you care about them

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, and Analytix Solutions .

#056: GoRuck - Founder Jason McCarthy

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The ruck march can be a leisurely walk to the store, or it can be a grueling test of personal strength, perseverance and drive. Jason McCarthy is the founder of GoRuck, a gear company turned international fitness movement.

Host Fran Racioppi takes a detour off I-95 and stopped in Jacksonville Beach to meet Jason and and reminisce about 10th Special Forces Group, the relentless pursuit of quality and what you owe when you admit it was your first time.

Join us for this episode and check us out live at GoRuck's First Annual Sandlot Jax Fitness Festival April 22-24 in downtown Jacksonville, FL. Jason's goal has always been to bring people together to do fun - and hard - things. Sandlot Jax will be no different. The Jedburgh Podcast team will be there in force covering the entire event and putting in the work. We'll see you there.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Sandlot Jax brings together leaders in fitness to focus on in-person, community building through working out, live events, Ted-style talks and a party scene.

-The virtual nature of the last two years has impacted people’s ability to forge meaningful connections.

-COVID-19 has created an opportunity for people to exhibit agency in their lives, identify what is important to them, simplify and focus on what makes them happy.

-Fear is part of our daily lives that forces us to classify and understand the risks we are willing to take.

-Jason talks about the founding of GoRuck, creating something that would bond people together, giving back to the Special Forces Regiment and honoring those he served with.

-Quality is more important than quantity. Jason and Fran highlight the Special Operations Truths and how they have applied to building GoRuck and The Jedburgh Podcast.

-Sandlot Technology is a geo-spacial fitness app disrupting the fitness industry by bringing together trainers with trainees anywhere, anytime.

-Jason shares how his entrepreneurial lessons from building GoRuck are being applied to Sandlot Technology.

-Fran & Jason discuss the Green Beret Foundation.

Quotes:

-“The social fitness component of our lives is the glue.”

-“When everything is virtual a tremendous dehumanization occurs.”

-“Give the time to the people that you really respect and care about.”

-“Most things are best when you view them as action verbs.”

-”Life has risk and you have to learn how to navigate what you’re willing to accept and what you are not.”

-”If you are going to say you were in Special Forces, you better carry that torch well, because if you don’t it’s everlasting shame.”

-”I hate everything until I don’t.”

-”We think that the world needs more trainers, not fewer.”

-”We need to over communicate the value statement.”

-”Nobody wants to be bravo right rifle on a patrol.”

-“The technology is meant to be a community of communities.”

-“Those to whom much is given, much is expected.”

Jason’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Ruck somewhere

-Set aside time to focus internally

-Be deliberate about priorities

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions and The Readiness Collective.

#055: Chad1000X - Gold Star Spouse Sara Wilkinson

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 10:30:00 GMT

At some point in our lives we'll lose someone or something that defines our very being. How we respond to that loss will test our character to its foundation.

Sara Wilkinson lost her husband when he died by suicide in 2018. Navy SEAL Chad Wilkinson was one of our nation's finest Special Operators, having served 21 years in the Navy, with many of those on Seal Team 6. Sara joined host Fran Racioppi to share the love story between her and Chad, reducing the stigmas around Veteran suicide, what it takes to serve as a military spouse and the Chad1000X WOD.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Sara and Chad met in high school and continued their love story through college and a long distance relationship.

-We are wired to do exactly what we want to do. Sara discusses Chad’s calling to the Navy SEALS and his love for the unit and service.

-Sara explains how military spouses must be fearless, independent and resilient.

-Operator Syndrome and the continuous drive of elite performers to compartmentalize suffering and pain is both necessary for success but detrimental to their health.

-Why we need to change the language and stigma around death by suicide.

-Chad suffered from Interface Astroglial Scarring which contributed to Post Traumatic Stress.

-Sara’s advice to military spouses and the spouse’s role as a first responder in the health of the service member.

-The CrossFit community is life changing for many as shared suffering develops the habits to improve both mental and physical fitness.

-Chad1000X is the WOD tribute to Chad Wilkinson; Fran challenges Sara to join him in completing the workout together at Sandlot Jax.

-Sara defines “Live Big” and talks about this year’s Boston Frogman Swim June 12.

Quotes:

-”He had this blue collared shirt on. I saw his profile. I was done.”

-”I think you have to be incredibly independent because you are going to spend an exorbitant amount of time alone.”

-You have to be “fearless because your person is gonna be gone and you’re not going to know what they’re doing.”

-“Resilient because you have to go through all these hardships on a daily basis and keep pushing yourself forward regardless.”

-”People commit burglary. People commit murder. People do not commit suicide. People die by suicide.”

-”If you’ve made the decision to marry this person you love, who’s an operator for 20 years serving our country, your job is to safeguard his health whether you realize it or not…If you see something, say something.”

-”If you doubt me then I am 100% gonna do it, just to prove to you that I can do it.”

-“If you are a very good CrossFit trainer it means you are designed with the unique ability to allow others to find the best within themselves.”

-”Anyone can do this workout…but you do have to have a little bit of grit.”

-“For me, living big means not holding back.”

Sara’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Write because the written word is powerful

-Exercise

-Ride my skateboard to feel free

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions and The Readiness Collective.

#054: As Many Reps As Possible - CrossFit Games Champion & Founder of NCFIT Jason Khalipa

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

What happens when you have no choice but to win. When losing is simply not an option. When winning no matter the challenge means doing whatever it takes.

Jason Khalipa earned the title of World's Fittest Man when he won the 2008 CrossFit games. In 2009 he won the Spirit of the Games award after collapsing mid-competition then picking himself up and finishing. Jason built his career on never quitting and winning at all costs.

But in 2016 Jason's daughter Ava was diagnosed with Leukemia; the toughest challenge he would ever face. For this episode, Host Fran Racioppi met with Jason in his flagship gym, NCF IT, to discuss his As Many Reps As Possible mentality for winning no matter the challenge.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-What As Many Reps As Possible (AMRAP) means and how to increase focus in our life.

-The five parts of AMRAP: Know Your Why, Focus On What You Can Control, Work Hard, Shift Gears & Re-Evaluate.

-Jason’s daughter, Ava’s, battle with Leukemia and how his family used the AMRAP mentality to combat it.

-Honesty, self-expression and a real connection to community are the values used to remain grounded.

-CrossFit is a community built on shared values and shared suffering.

-Jason embraced CrossFit and started his own gym.

-Focusing on the controllable instead of the uncontrollable.

-Micro-adversities train our mindset to overcome challenges.

-The difference between earned vs perceived confidence.

-The 2009 CrossFit games showed Jason the importance of never quitting.

-Effort Over Everything.

-Why Jason started NCFIT, his focus on core competencies and the entrepreneurial journey scaling across the globe.

Quotes:

-”I was spending too much time not reaching my potential by being one foot in and one foot out in everything I was doing.”

-”If you are doing something just because of money and fame, or if you are doing it for some superficial reason, when things get tough you won’t be successful at it.”

-”I got to be better. Otherwise I’m not going to have this family. I’m not going to have these things. I have to do better about being present and focused.”

-”I thought CrossFit was doing a better job because it had the coach that created the community, which ultimately created that shared suffering.”

-”I focused on things that were outside my control…By the time I actually had to go out there and perform, I wasn’t able to perform.”

-”Through these micro-adversities you start building up the mindset of learning how to positive self-talk, learning how to win, ultimately because you stayed calm and collected.”

-“Winners stay calm and channel that stress into productive energy. Losers complain, fly off the handle, and lose their cool. In my experience, this comes down to a fault in focus."

-“If I was not mentally prepared to finish the task at hand…then I just wouldn’t even do it.”

-”Find something you are really bought in on and become the world’s best at it.”

Jason’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Workout to focus the mind

-Set intention for the day

-Talk to the family about their day

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions and The Readiness Collective.

#053: Your Next Stop - Storyteller, Creator & Coach Juliet Hahn

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Before a leader can make an impact, they must first know who they are impacting. And to know someone requires both the art of listening and the gift of storytelling.

Juliet Hahn is an entrepreneur, a podcast host, a performance coach, a consultant, a speaker, a mother, a wife, and a friend to many. Her impact is felt across industries and by thousands of listeners and fans. Juliet is the host of Your Next Stop Podcast and was voted #12 in the top 50 moms in podcasting and #27 in the Hot 50 podcasts by Podcasting Magazine.

Host Fran Racioppi traveled to Long Island for a conversation on the importance of listening in storytelling, the opportunities growing up with severe dyslexia provided her, Juliet’s tips on pursuing dreams, and how to go hard for five days then take two days to enjoy the beach or whatever makes you happy.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Juliet and Fran share why storytelling is the foundation to creating impact; although it begins with actively listening, the desire to learn more about people and the importance of vulnerability in sharing your story.

-Dyslexia affects many talented people in society. Juliet shares the impact of growing up with Dyslexia, how it shaped her learning and how she turned the disability into an opportunity.

-Fran and Juliet discuss the importance of leveraging people’s strengths in organizations vs trying to fix their weaknesses.

-Juliet’s experiences with weight gain during pregnancy provided a catalyst to change the way she thought about her health and provided an outlet to transition her career to helping others improve their own habits and behaviors.

-Juliet explains the motivation behind the Your Next Stop Podcast and why helping women gain the confidence to take chances and pursue their dreams continues to drive her.

-Podcasting is a unique opportunity to connect with people. Fran and Juliet bond over their experiences starting their podcasts as Juliet shares her top 10 tips to starting a podcast.

-Juliet & the Your Next Stop Podcast have partnered with NFL Thread to highlight the important work and voice of the wives of NFL players.

-Fran asks Juliet to share her Formula for a Fulfilled life.

Quotes:

-”There is a story behind all of us and we can learn from every single person.”

-”Some people will listen but they’re not really hearing.”

-”I believe we’re all one question away from a different life.”

-”I’m Dyslexic…you struggle in school. School sucks.”

-”Not everyone wants to talk about their weaknesses. Not everyone wants to say ‘no, I’m not good at this.’”

-“I am an all or nothing person. I was basically like ‘I’m changing it now.’”

-“We all need to find that place that we can daydream.”

-“I’ve always been positive. Even when I was getting yelled at by teachers that I wasn’t smart.”

-”You can create things in your brain, but if you don’t take action it’s not going to go anywhere.”

-”There is a lot for a girl to do at the Super Bowl.”

-“Monday to Friday I am balls to the walls.”

Juliet’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Move my body for my brain

-Get up before the house gets up

-Follow your creative passion

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#052: Newt's World - Former Speaker of The House Newt Gingrich

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 08:56:00 GMT

The World Order which has stood since 1945 is today being tested in every corner of the globe and affecting our economy here in America.

Host Fran Racioppi is joined in this episode by Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich to speak strategy across the Elements of National Power, the effectiveness of our diplomacy in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the precedent set for our dealings with China, North Korea, Iran and other nuclear capable nations.

They also discuss the point at which the US economy cracks into a recession, the decision to take the military option off the table and how education is critical for the next generation of American leaders.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Speaker Gingrich and Fran break down the current war between Ukraine and Russia along diplomatic, informational, military and economic fronts.

-The Speaker provides his assessment of the Biden Administration’s handling of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and America’s relationship with Iran.

-Fran asks the Speaker to explain the precedent being set by not directly intervening in the conflict.

-Speaker Gingrich compares the leadership of Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky and Joe Biden.

-Fran presses the Speaker on his economic outlook for America, the drivers and impacts of inflation and the likelihood of a recession.

-Military force is the last line of diplomacy. Speaker Gingrich assesses the capability of the Russian Army, the strength of American Armed Forces and what China is learning from watching.

-Speaker Gingrich speaks about America’s next generation of leaders, what they must do to keep America safe and free, the importance of improving our education system and why competition with China is the long game.

Quotes:

-“Virtually every medium-sized country is going to conclude that they need to get nuclear weapons.”

-”Putin is behaving like the Russian bear. Zelensky has proven that the Ukrainians are lions.”

-”People should not think this is incompetence….they are doing what they want to do. And they are doing what they believe in”

-“I’ll be very surprised if we aren’t in a recession by 2023.”

-”The non-commissioned officers, the sergeants, the warrant officers…they really drive the system.”

-”I suspect (Xi Xingping) is asking himself ‘am I really as confident that the People’s Liberation Army could effectively cross 160 miles of The Taiwan Straits and be successful.”

-“This is an ideological worldview which is extraordinarily dangerous and runs a real risk, I think, of degenerating into a major war. “

-“It’s not so much superpower in the arrogant sense as it is sustaining a capability to ensure that freedom and safety survive.”

-”I would say the number one challenge we have is the education system because we are literally not producing people today capable of competing with the Chinese.”

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Read 3-6 hours per day to remain informed

-Have a defined process for Listening, Learning, Helping and Leading to plan around vision, strategy, projects and tasks

-Focus on the most important tasks to bring value to a cause

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#051: FitFighter - Founder & CEO Sarah Apgar

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 08:55:00 GMT

General George Patton famously said "you fight as you train." On The Jedburgh Podcast we say "how you prepare today determines success tomorrow."

Sarah Apgar found the gap between the way firefighters trained and the way they fought fires. To fill this gap she created the FitFighter Steel Hose. An All-American Rugby Player turned Iraq War Veteran turned firefighter, Sarah took her idea to Shark Tank where she landed a partnership with Daniel Lubetzsky, the founder of Kind.

Sarah invited host Fran Racioppi to her Long Island studio for a conversation on entrepreneurism, the fitness industry, her two minute uninterrupted pitch to the Sharks, how leadership in the Army set her up for the highs and lows of building her own business and the importance of partnering with Tunnel to Towers to give back to first responders.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Sarah shares the founding of FitFighter, which started as an idea to address differences between training and real world fitness requirements.

-The FitFighter Steel Hose is built from recycled firehouse and steel shot. Sarah explains the importance of sustainability in the production model and the various iterations the product has gone through; including partnership with Sorinex Fitness Equipment.

-Shark Tank provided Sarah the opportunity to scale the business while bringing awareness through additional distribution channels.

-Sarah shares the top mentorship lessons on business and entrepreneurship she has received from Shark Investor & Founder of Kind Snacks Daniel Lubetzsky.

-Fran and Sarah discuss the importance of collegiate athletics in forming the foundation of work ethic, team ability and skill building as they prepared for their military careers.

-Fran challenges Sarah to explain the perspective gained from leading soldiers in combat, the loss of camaraderie upon leaving the Army and her difficult decision to leave Warby Parker.

Quotes:

-”I noticed there was this big chasm between the training that we were doing in the gym and the truck bays and what was really happening out there in the fire ground.”

-”I joined the volunteer firehouse to get back some of the camaraderie that I missed from military days.”

-“I’m an inventor. I’m stubbornly curious. I’m someone who, if there is something that seems good we need to make it 15 times better.”

-”Weightlifting in general is the single most important practice for our long term health. Period. Hands down. Every single day of the week and twice on Sunday.”

-”I had decided that if offered the opportunity for a partner from any one of the Sharks that I would walk out of there with it.”

-”I wholeheartedly reject the idea that early on in a company that the only way is to pick that one path and trajectory.”

-“I was getting less and less exceptional at the job I was doing…that was pretty scary.”

Sarah’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Create moments of Curiosity

-Integrate movement into everything we do

-Speak to at least one family member and one friend in your village

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#050: The Jedburgh Podcast One Year Anniversary Special With Cleo Stiller & Fran Racioppi

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 10:17:00 GMT

In this one-year anniversary special, Fran Racioppi takes the hot seat as guest host Cleo Stiller, author of Modern Manhood, takes over the mic. Cleo turns the table, pushing Fran to finally tell his story from his days growing up in New England and Florida, to Boston University and the Army. They cover what drove him to study journalism, why rowing was so impactful and what he actually did in the Special Forces.

They also talk about his difficult post-Army career. The highs of business school and the lows of hard lessons learned in corporate America; plus his path to finding maturity to become the person he always wanted to be.

Thank you to all of our listeners, our guests, our sponsors and The Jedburgh Podcast Team for joining us on this journey. We are one year old with this episode. Let's celebrate then get back to work on the next 50!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran explains why he was drawn to journalism, what he learned watching some of the greatest journalists of all time and how Geraldo Rivera showed him he needed to join the Army instead of becoming a reporter.

-Cleo asks Fran to talk about how his career in the Army first as an infantry officer and later a Special Forces Green Beret was the result of the discipline and teamwork he learned rowing at Boston University.

-Fran describes what he learned working in Africa, the importance of perspective and how his experiences shaped his view of himself and the world.

-Fran’s transition from the military was not the easiest road as he struggled to find himself professionally and personally through a variety of different roles; including Merrill Lynch, Snapchat and a foray into cannabis.

-Fran honestly addresses past questionable behavior, the drivers behind his decisions and what he has learned about himself through his commitment to change.

-The Jedburgh Podcast was born out of Fran’s desire to create impact in people’s daily life. He describes the process of launching the show, the impact it has had on his life and listeners, and a preview of what's to come through the rest of 2022 including the GoRuck Sandlot Jax Fitness Festival and Podfest.

Quotes:

-”I want to be one of those people. I can make an impact there now and later on if I want to be a journalist I can be a journalist.”

-”There were some terrible days in selection…even in the most darkest moments when I was like I don’t know if I am going to be able to do this I would say to myself ‘at least I am not on the erg rowing.”

-”We are really fortunate here in America to say and do all the things we get to say and do. Other countries don’t operate like that.”

-”I applied to a lot of jobs and had a lot of rejection.”

-”I cried when I was in the car. I looked in the rear view mirror and I realized everything I know in life is behind me. Your identity in so many ways is lost.”

-”What highly successful people tend to do is develop an alter-ego.”

-“We’ve taken the long-game approach on this podcast.”

Fran’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Make an action oriented list every day

-Communicate effectively across the sender, receiver and the message itself

-Act deliberately and with intention

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

Jumping In with CIA Operations Director Jack Devine on Ukraine, Russia, Putin & war in Europe in 2022 (The Jedburgh Podcast Short-Form Series)

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 06:39:00 GMT

The Russian invasion into Ukraine is unprecedented in modern times and something Europe has not seen since World War II. Tensions between the United States, NATO and Russia are at the highest levels in decades.

Host Fran Racioppi and legendary Cold Warrior, Former CIA Operations Director and Author Jack Devine "Jump In" to a conversation on Russia, Ukraine, Putin and land war in Europe in 2022.

Fran and Jack cover:

-Why Vladimir Putin and Russia want Ukraine back

-Putin's mental state and psychology

-The threat of nuclear war and the American red line

-What it will take to end this conflict

-How NATO and the United States are responding

Learn more about Jack and his career on Episode 13.

Check out Jack's newest book Spymaster's Prism about Russian aggression, Putin and information warfare.

About Jack Devine:

Jack Devine spent 32 years in the Central Intelligence Agency serving as both the Acting Director and Associate Director of the CIA's global operations.

Devine joined the agency in 1967, after his wife gave him a book about the CIA and its role in U.S. national security. During his tenure, Jack led the Afghan Task Force where he covertly supported the Afghan mujahideen in their fight against the Soviet Union tipping the balance of power during the Cold War in favor of the United States. Jack also led the CIA's Counter Narcotics Center and the Latin America Division where he led the effort in the war against international drug kingpins like Pablo Escobar.

Jack has made and changed history in every corner of the world. He is currently the President of The Arkin Group, where he provides boutique consulting on international intelligence and investigative services. He is a member of The Council on Foreign Relations and is seen regularly on all major new networks and publications.

Jack recently released his second book, Spymaster's Prism, where he provides his in-depth analysis of intelligence, counter-intelligence and covert action activities between Russia and the United States.

#049: The Establishment - Founder & CEO Anita Bitton

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Anita Bitton is one of the fashion industry's most iconic and leading drivers of talent. Anita is the Founder and CEO of The Establishment, the go-to casting director for brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Bottega Veneta, Marc Jacobs, and Balenciaga. She was instrumental in the rise of Alexander Wang.

Anita was born in South London. She was raised by foster parents. She modeled as a kid to find a way out of London and a better option than her job at TGI Friday's. For this episode Anita invited host Fran Racioppi to her Brownstone on Manhattan's Upper West Side for a chat in her parlor about defining trends, being bold and disruptive, evaluating talent, resiliency in life and business, raising kids in New York City and her dedicated Spotify channel.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Anita defines the fashion industry, it’s meaning in society and how designers are artists whose style represents their current attitudes and feelings about society.

-Fashion is a subjective industry. As the coordinator and facilitator Anita must define what is actually fashionable while bringing out the best in people.

-Anita describes the importance of being bold and creative; driving clients to explore new and different ways to represent their visions, but without being pushy.

-Fran challenges Anita to describe disruption, fighting the mundane and how growing up in South London with foster parents and adversity shaped her drive and accountability as she consistently looked for ways to move to New York City.

-Anita explains the good and bad of social media, how luxury brands use the platforms, the ease of access and the hard work required to make a name for yourself.

-Resilience is a key component of success. Anita shows us the importance of rejection in our growth and evolution; which allows for our longevity.

Quotes:

-”When I think about fashion…it dictates the era that we have been through. It predicts the future that we are going into.”

-”Fashion leans into politics. It leans into identity. It leans into rebellion…It all starts with where we are in the world.”

-“Fashion is a reaction to what’s going on in the world.”

-“There is no right or wrong answer in what we do, there’s just ideas.”

-”My job here is to help you be the best version of yourself.”

-”I try to meet the talent where they are…one size does not fit all.”

-”My biggest fear in life is working in an arena that is irrelevant and mundane.”

-”I’m not into the idea of generic. It’s not interesting to me…if they think it’s too bold, that’s exciting to me.”

-”I wasn’t good at not being good.”

-“There is always a part of society that just wants to put people down.”

-“I don’t want to live in the past. That’s done. I did that. I still remember the headache.”

-“There is no fast track.”

-“Resilience isn’t about taking a job for no money. It’s about knowing your next five moves.”

-“There is a solution to every problem. It’s just how you choose to get there.”

Anita’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Create a gratitude list at the start and end of the day (because it changes)

-Meditate to find space

-Walk my son to school

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#048: Cast Inc: Founder & CEO Julia Samersova

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Talent evaluation is difficult in any industry. We make decisions every day on performance that not only affect people's lives, but also affect their emotions and often their physical and emotional well-being. Effectively operating in the world of talent management requires both empathy and a high level of emotional strength.

For this episode, host Fran Racioppi traveled to the heart of Brooklyn to spend the day with Julia Samersova; Founder and CEO of Cast Inc. - the leading casting company for kids who have what it takes to star in commercials, advertisements and shows. Julia is trusted by the fashion industry's most iconic brands like Maybelline, Calvin Klein, Gap and Carter's.

In definitely our most relaxed episode to date, Fran and Julia talk casting, entrepreneurism, talent management, helicopter parenting, the impact adults have on kids and how we can be the best parents we can be.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Julia and Fran discuss defining your self-worth as an entrepreneur, the loneliness of building something from nothing in your vision and how to deal with down times.

-Julia defines “busy” and what it means to devote yourself to your passion and dreams.

-Julia challenges us to think about parenting differently and incorporate the way kids are learning today through technology into how we parent.

-Casting kids requires a mix of energy, uniqueness and empathy, as well as patience to manage their often overbearing parents known as “Mom-agers.”

-In a heartfelt exchange Julia credits her high school guidance counselor with forcing her to believe in herself and pursue what she loved.

-Julia explains her career in talent management and how the 2008 market crash showed her a gap in the fashion industry.

-Parenting is the hardest job we have. Julia and Fran discuss the act of parenting, the importance of time and attention and the risk aversion between kids today vs yesterday.

Quotes:

-”If I changed even one kid’s life then it was all worth it.”

-“My favorite thing to do was to cut up magazines and make collages out of supermodels.”

-“I don’t know what would have happened to me had Mrs. Graham not sat me down and been like you’re a loser, what are you doing with your life, what’s your love, what’s your passion.”

-”It’s the honesty in a kid that is mostly attractive to me.”

-”The kids usually do better when the parents are in another room.”

-”Nobody else is responsible for your success…If you didn’t get that job that you wanted, that’s on you. But also, if you did get the job, that’s on you.”

-”Whatever you are busy with, did it produce some sort of satisfaction.”

-“Busyness as a badge of honor…no…Rest is the badge of honor.”

-”Kids are exactly what you put into them. You are going to get out what you put in.”

-”We put iPads in their hands at two years old. What did we think was going to happen? We need to change the way we think about it vs changing the behavior.”

Julia’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Wake up at the same time every day with gratitude

-Never procrastinate; have a sense of urgency all the time

-Schedule time to rest and recover

-Plus Julia adds a fourth - fight for what you want!

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#047: Baptist Parking Lot - Country Music Singer Songwriter Mary Heather Hickman

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 07:10:00 GMT

For this episode host Fran Racioppi leapt down to Music City to spend the day with up and coming recording artist Mary Heather Hickman at the famed RCA Studios.

Mary Heather hit the iTunes Country Top 10 with her don't mess with Texas style. She has opened for Toby Keith, Eli Young and Hank Williams Jr. She has played at ATT Stadium so naturally Fran challenged her to describe her mentors and role models; and also explain what happened to the Cowboys this year!

Mary Heather not only shared her story and her lessons on building a career in country music, but she gave our team a solo concert including a sneak peak of an upcoming yet-to-be released track and her newest hit Baptist Parking Lot, which hit radio on February 14. Take a listen to our conversation and stay tuned until the end to hear for yourself.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Mary Heather describes how she fell in love with Country music and how singing has come naturally, but she has had to work hard to learn the guitar and piano.

-As a senior in high school Mary Heather competed on The Voice proving she could make music a career.

-Mary Heather explains her songwriting process, how she chooses the topics for her songs, the importance of being meticulous in developing the storyline and how studying journalism shaped her communication style.

-Fran challenges Mary Heather on her “sassy, irreverent, don’t mess with Texas” style, why Country music remains optimistic & hopeful as compared to her peers in pop music and which established artists have influenced her.

-Mary Heather was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age four. She shares with Fran her battle with diabetes, how she pretended she didn’t have it, and how she finally accepted it as a fact of her life and advocates for others who suffer from the disease.

-Fran and Mary Heather talk Dallas Cowboys football and what it will take to win a Super Bowl in Dallas.

-Mary Heather ends the episode with a live performance of her unreleased song Late Night Lonely.

Quotes:

-”What initially drew me to country music actually was listening to The Dixie Chicks Wide Open Spaces Album.”

-”I see that these people are doing it. I’ve always wanted to do it. Why can’t I take that leap and give it a shot.”

-”If you want something you have to put in the work.”

-”I’m very meticulous about everything adding up.”

-”When it comes to music, fans can tell when you are being true to yourself.”

-”Knowing what I am not good at has been more helpful to my career than anything else.”

-”I wanted to be known as cool or popular. Not the girl with diabetes.”

-”I work at a restaurant so I can write during the day…you gotta do what you gotta do.”

-”I think everyone should find what gets them excited every day and chase that.”

-”I would love to be able to see the Cowboys win a Super Bowl sometime that I actually remember.”

Mary-Heather’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Start every day with a list

-Write everyday to get the creativity going

-Find a few moments of “me time”

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#046: Beijing 2022: US Snowboarding - Lucas Foster

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:00:00 GMT

The halfpipe is the marquis event in snowboarding; launching riders 20 feet into the air while rotating up to four and half times. Or as the newest member of the US Olympic Snowboarding team explained - nailing a 1620.

In our second episode of our coverage of the 2022 winter olympics, Lucas Foster joined host Fran Racioppi just before hopping his plane to Beijing. Lucas has his eyes set on making an impact at the games and in the sport - a sport in which America has dominated since its Olympic debut in 1998.

We cover the halfpipe and how to combine amplitude, variety and execution to convince the judges of your performance. Lucas shares what it's like to stand beside snowboarding legends like Shaun White and how growing up without a halfpipe taught him to be creative, resilient and adaptable. Lucas also shares how organically growing in the sport has kept him grounded, humble and gracious to be considered one of the sport’s best.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Lucas talks about making the US Olympic Snowboard Team and what it means to represent the United States in Beijing.

-The United States has dominated Olympic snowboarding since it became a sport in 1998. Beijing 2022 will feature both the next generation of American snowboarding in Lucas, Taylor Gold & Chase Josey and legends like Shaun White.

-Fran asks Lucas to discuss the dynamics between competing with your teammates but also driving each other to perform at their best.

-Snowboarding is a judged sport. Lucas breaks down the criteria for evaluation and what tricks gain the most attention from the judges.

-Lucas talks about the importance of mind and body synergy while showing us the importance of flow state once standing atop the halfpipe.

-Growing up in the skier dominated town of Telluride, CO forced Lucas to approach training and competition for snowboarding with a sense of grit and determination.

-Lucas explains his thoughts on making an impact and how becoming too elite will prevent him from becoming a role model for kids and helping others grow to achieve their goals.

Quotes:

-”I always knew in the back of my mind that I would be able to do it.”

-”You can pull value from everyone’s career.”

-“That’s the ultimate dream. Make it to the Olympics and have the best run of your life.”

-“The criteria for judging is amplitude, variety, execution and overall impression.”

-“There is no difference between the body and the mind. The body is the mind.”

-”Your physical is always going to be feeding your mental game.”

-“The cool thing about snowboarding is that you have to be fully present. Every hit requires full stillness, full presence and full attention.”

-”You gotta have people from different walks of life to make this sport unique and to make it more of a culture rather than just some cookie cutter sport.”

-“Snowboarding has helped me really discover who I am and discover my path in life.”

Lucas’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Meditate to find space and remain grounded

-Movement to train the body

-Develop meaningful connections with others

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#045: US Skiing - Alpine Ski Racer & World Cup Champion Steven Nyman

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 11:00:00 GMT

World Cups and Olympic medals are won and lost by hundredths of a second by skiers hurling themselves down ice covered mountains with only a thin metal edge to control decent.

These feats of speed, athleticism and precision breed competition, a healthy dose of fear, and awe for all of us who watch and have dreamt of standing atop the winner's podium. Beijing 2022 is here...and it's time to kick off The Jedburgh Podcast tribute to the Winter Olympics.

Steven Nyman, is an American legend in downhill Olympic and World Cup skiing. He has reached 11 podiums, earned three World Cup titles, and did something no other American downhiller has ever done—reaching the podium four times in a row in the run up to the 2018 Olympics. He has been on the US Ski Team for over two decades.

Steven joined host Fran Racioppi from the World Cup circuit in Switzerland to discuss the importance of preparation, the fear of failure, the courage to act, the grit needed to recover from devastating injuries and the drive to win after 20 years of competition.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Steven talks about his longevity in the sport, the perspective he has gained as he has matured on the circuit, and what it would take to continue competing at the Olympic level as he turns 40.

-Fran breaks skiing down into three component parts: physical, technical, and mental capability.

-Steven explains how training under fatigue sets him apart from the competition, as pushing the body for peak performance in the last 30 seconds is essential to winning.

-The technology in skiing has rapidly advanced over the last 20 years; Steven talks about his battles with skiing equipment and how he has had to adapt equipment made for smaller athletes to work at his size.

-A skier’s mental preparation must be constant throughout the year; something Steven explains takes discipline and a focused approach to each movement and each run.

-Steven talks about early days in skiing, how his brothers pushed him to compete and how chasing the BYU ski team growing up instilled in him a sense of grit and fierce determination.

Quotes:

-”I’ve shown a lot of speed, but I have made a lot of mistakes. If I can refine some of those mistakes I can be right in there with the big boys.”

-”If you can focus when you are pushed against a wall, that’s when you are going to set yourself apart.”

-“Crashes are brutal. If you can take a hit and get back up, that is going to allow you to race more and more.”

-”There’s not a lot of controllable things outside of your equipment.”

-”There is not a lot of thought. There’s a feeling and there’s a drive.”

-”It was just step by step goals…and I reached for it and pushed for it every single year.”

-”That grit. That desire to compete. That desire to win is what drives me.”

-"If I commit to that and hammer through it with intention and drive, instead of a little hesitation, I'm going to come out way faster."

-“Active and drive. Those are my two words.”

Steven’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Set deliberate goals

-Step away, honestly critique and assess yourself

-Ask myself if I still love what I am doing - then go do it!

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#044: Taking The Hill - The Honorable Patrick Murphy - Congressman, Secretary Of The Army, Vetrepreneur

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT

The word service is defined as the action of helping or doing work for someone. The Honorable Patrick Murphy has served...and led...in many arenas. He was America's first Iraq War Veteran elected to Congress. He was later appointed by President Obama to serve as the Undersecretary of the Army and the acting Secretary of the Army. He was the youngest professor to ever teach at West Point.

Today, Patrick is a Vetrepreneur, where he serves as an angel investor for Veteran-owned businesses, advocates for mental health programs, and mentors the next generation of our nation's leaders.

Patrick joins this episode to discuss his journey from Soldier to Congressman to leading the Army's over one million people. We cover his thoughts on leading in combat, why he felt compelled to enter politics and run for Congress, and how service to others is the greatest role a leader can play in any organization.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Growing up as a blue-collar kid in Pennsylvania showed Patrick the importance of service and the need for structure; driving him to join the Army.

-Patrick was the youngest professor ever to teach at West Point.

-Patrick talks about the difference between the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and how they shaped his perspective on elected leaders.

-Fran challenges Patrick to show us how to work across the aisle, enhance collaboration and bridge the divide between our views and those who disagree with us.

-Patrick defines leadership in America, what we need moving forward and how leaders of character lead no matter what.

-Patrick was known as the Soldiers’ Secretary and describes his “leader first” concept.

-Patrick championed ground-breaking legislation such as the 21st Century GI Bill, the Repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, and Hire Our Heroes.

-Patrick describes the importance of investing in Veterans and Veteran-owned businesses.

Quotes:

-”West Point is the Athens and Sparta of America…you cannot leave West Point without love of country.”

-“I knew I had to get involved in political public service to be a voice of reason and to fight for my brothers and sisters…to fight to do what’s right.

-”I love the quote hire for talent, train for skill.”

-”We can disagree on things but you never become disagreeable.”

-“I do think that we need more veterans in office; because they work as teams. They tend to put the country first. They tend to not answer to political bosses or parties.”

-”We are not perfect. We are never going to be perfect. But we are a good country. Partially because we are always trying to make it better…that’s our solemn duty.”

-“What leadership is…you inspire others to do things they wouldn’t otherwise do.”

-“We develop leaders of character for a lifetime of service. Character is how you are when no one is looking.”

-”I don’t just talk about it. I am the embodiment of it.”

Patrick’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Be a curious and voracious reader

-Stay physically fit

-Know and commit to what is most important

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#043: Hollman Lockers - CEO Travis Hollman

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Grit is defined as courage, resolve, or the strength of our character. We develop grit through the difficult times in our lives. The times we got knocked down, passed over or left behind.

Host Fran Racioppi visited Travis Hollman, President & CEO of Hollman Lockers; the world's largest manufacturer of locker rooms, including those of the Dallas Cowboys, Equinox, The New York Times, J.P. Morgan and Alabama Football.

Hollman is a family business that Travis has grown 8x since he took it over in 2011. Growing up, Travis suffered from severe dyslexia and a rare bone disease that bound him to a wheelchair. He was bullied, rejected and called the dumbest kid his teachers ever taught. Today, he is one of the most successful and influential CEOs in business.

In an on-location episode inside the Hollman manufacturing plant, Travis and Fran discuss locker rooms, scaling businesses, entrepreneurship, the importance of family, his dedication to giving back, and how Grit has been the key to overcoming adversity and finding success.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Travis discusses the history of Hollman, his relationship with his father and how he immediately implemented a turnaround culture of growth based on doing the right thing; something that proved itself during the COVID-19 downturn.

-Travis discusses the various roles at Hollman and how he evaluates talent based on what people want to do vs what he thinks they should be doing.

-Travis credits a childhood physical disability that left him in a wheelchair, combating severe dyslexia and being shunned by others as pivotal in developing toughness and grit.

-Travis talks about the details of manufacturing, the fundamentals of volume, the importance of technology and how Hollman wins on quality.

-Travis provides his advice to young entrepreneurs who struggle to choose a clear direction.

-Fran and Travis open up about parenting, raising kids, the differences between when they grew up and the importance of balance.

-The Hollman Family Foundation provides locker rooms and funds school improvements to impact local communities.

Quotes:

-“There was no one in charge. Whoever put their hand up that day was in charge.”

-”My thought process is that everyone wants to be worth $100M one day. That’s not true.”

-“We are all wired differently. We are all wired for exactly what we want to do.”

-“He’s the dumbest kid I ever taught. He can’t come back to this school next year.”

-”You’re the best person, that’s who we hire. When you do that, that's how you develop the right culture.”

-”It doesn’t matter what you do, but find that idea you really love.”

-”We used to get hurt by rocks and pavement…how they are hurting kids now is through social media and making them feel bad.”

-”We are going to give free college tuition to everyone that works here and their spouses and their kids.”

-“When I make money, the people around me should all make money. Let’s keep the money moving through society.”

Travis’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Show up

-Never walk alone

-Focus on the good, learn from the bad

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#042: Wounding Warriors: How Bad Policy Is Making Veterans Sicker And Poorer - Daniel Gade

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT

The Department of Veterans Affairs is one of the most complex organizations in government. At the center of this complexity is VA disability ratings and compensation; a program developed over 200 years ago to compensate service members while they recovered from service. Today, this program is convoluted, lengthy and often the most challenging process a Veteran must endure during transition to civilian life.

Daniel Gade, a retired Army Officer, combat-wounded amputee and author of Wounding Warriors: How Bad Policy is Making Veterans Sicker and Poorer joins host Fran Racioppi to challenge the current one-size fits all approach to VA disability compensation calling it outdated and antiquated; as well as providing recommendations for reform.

Daniel served in the Bush and Obama administrations and was the Republican nominee in the 2020 election to represent Virginia in the US Senate.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Daniel breaks down the VA disability claims process through a personal account of his combat and non-combat related injuries, including a detailed account of being wounded twice in Iraq and the events leading to the loss of his leg.

-We explain the numbers behind the VA, the increase in disability claims over the last two decades, the addition of bi-partisian policy and the cost of disability claims as related to other VA education and health programs.

-After losing his leg in Iraq, Daniel explains how he took control of his rehabilitation by focusing on the future, what factors would aid in his recovery and what must be done to “self-rescue.”

-Daniel used extreme sports like triathlons and cross-fit to prove he could recover and raise his expectations of himself and his ability to thrive as an amputee.

-The concept of “Stolen Valor” demonstrates how too many people misrepresent their service, the level of their injuries and their disabilities to increase their payments from the VA leading to increased policy complexity and bureaucracy.

-Daniel defines the term “permanent and total” and shows how it allows veterans to avoid treatment to ensure continued compensation.

-The path to reform requires three initiatives: focus on employment, link compensation to treatment, separation of military-related injuries vs those incurred while in the military.

Quotes:

-”It causes veterans to see themselves as sick, or as disabled, or as useless and worthless.”

-”We should be much more careful about how we use the word disability. The current process uses disability for anything wrong with a veteran.”

-”The VA spends more on veterans staying sick than veterans getting better.”

-”The VA’s priority is on paying people disability benefits. Not on rehabilitating them, educating them, housing them, or helping them in other ways.”

-“It ripped a chunk out of my thigh and I woke up in a ditch.”

-”I was in a surgeon's care in 37 minutes and my blood pressure was 60 over 0.”

-”My philosophy has always been find a solution and engage in whatever the solution might be.”

-“I realized right then that I wanted to be a person who can do anything.”

-”The veterans’ Iron Triangle is the most difficult Iron Triangle in all of politics.”

Daniel’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Hug my kids

-Connect to something greater than yourself

-Find a way to serve others

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#041: The Attributes - Navy SEAL Rich Diviney

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT

How do we define the term "best performance?" Is it elite? Is it peak? Is it simply human? For our first episode of 2022, host Fran Racioppi starts 2022 with a conversation on first defining “optimal performance” and second on understanding the core fundamentals that make up our character and our personality...The Attributes.

Fran is joined by Rich Diviney; a former Navy SEAL who revolutionized the way Navy SEALS are assessed and selected for our nation's premier counter-terrorism forces. He has taught leadership and the concept of optimal performance to thousands of businesses, and recently launched his new book called The Attributes.

2020 and 2021 tested many of our attributes. We may not have even realized it. We don't know what 2022 will bring, but we know that any success starts with our ability to understand ourselves.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Rich distinguishes between traits and attributes, defines optimal performance vs peak performance, separates skills from attributes, and shows the importance of selecting those who “could” do the job vs those who know “how” to do the job.

-How the lessons of the US Navy SEAL assessment & selection process can be used in any organization and how to apply it today. Plus a short history of the SEALS and the evolution of training through today’s Hell Week.

-Fran and Rich cover 22 of The Attributes through a discussion on the five categories: Grit, Mental Acuity, Leadership, Drive, and Team Ability.

-A detailed breakdown of discipline vs self-discipline, sympathy vs empathy, decisiveness vs decision-making; and how they each affect our roles as leaders.

-Rich provides the “how-to” assessment to understand our core values to determine which attributes are most important to our organizations.

-START is the five-step process to improve ourselves and the quality of our attributes.

-Fran gets Rich to pick the attribute that best defines him; and what he is looking to improve in 2022.

Quotes:

-”If you want to understand human performance—yours and others’—the first step is to understand attributes.”

-”Personality traits are who we are on any given day.”

-”Optimal performance is about doing the best you can in the moment.”

-“Skills are not inherent to our nature…skills direct our behavior in known situations.”

-”Attributes…inform our behavior. They don’t direct our behavior.”

-”Talent is a dynamic dance between skills and attributes.”

-”Grit can be described as the ability to push through and achieve those acute challenges and goals.”

-“Mental Acuity is the one that all of these are actually inter-related.”

-“When someone leaves the group of a narcissist, that person is immediately enemy #1.”

-“Self-Discipline involves those things that the external world has no say in. Discipline involves those things that the external world does have a say in.”

-“The confusing thing about leadership is that we often think of leadership as a noun…in fact is a verb. It’s a behavior”

-”A decisive person understands that a decision can be final, but not permanent.”

Rich’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Hug my wife and kids

-Tell them I love them multiple times

-Keep moving forward; even if just a small step

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#040: Sharpen The Edge - 18A Fitness Founder Kevin Edgerton

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 11:00:00 GMT

The New Year is the time we all commit to eating less and working out more. We commit to improving our fitness and health. For some, it lasts all year. For many a few months, maybe a few weeks, and for others - just a few days.

To talk about fitness and goals in 2022, host Fran Racioppi asked Founder of 18A Fitness, and fellow Green Beret, Kevin Edgerton to join him on this New Year's episode to reminisce about their glory days as Green Berets, discuss a renewed commitment to fitness as the clock strikes January, and to share what it takes to try out for, and become, one of nation's most precious assets - a Special Operations Warrior.

Kevin served 26 years in the US Army as both enlisted and as an officer. He developed the human performance training programs for Army Special Forces Groups and the Air Force Special Operations Air Wings. He has since retired and founded 18A Fitness, an app-based, customized training platform to prepare any warrior for the grueling selection courses of the Green Berets, Army Rangers, Navy SEALS, Marine Raiders or Air Force Special Operations Air Wings.

It's like we always say...How You Prepare Today, Determines Success Tomorrow.

Happy New Year!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Kevin & Fran reminisce about their days in the United States Army Officer Candidate School and how prior enlisted soldiers like Kevin set the example for college entry officer candidates like Fran.

-18A was born out of Kevin’s experience in Special Operations selection courses, physical training certifications and I desire to help the next generation succeed in both fitness and the military.

-Kevin’s career in fitness started when his father suffered a heart attack in the gym and required a triple bypass surgery.

-Fran and Kevin break down the importance of physical vs mental training and preparation; and how higher levels of physical fitness allow for enhanced mental clarity when solving mental challenges.

-Kevin explains the importance of character in Special Operations and the differences in missions between Green Berets, Navy SEALS, Marine Special Operations, and Air Force Special Warfare.

-Fran asks Kevin what we learn from the best and worst leaders.

Quotes:

-”You have to know what their desired end state is, then put a program together that fits that need…that fits that scope…so they can pass that with ease.”

-”You have to come up with your why. Why you want to do this.”

-”When you see that second plane hit…it just got real…it changed the whole dynamics of what I was going to do.”

-”When you are a team leader your integrity has to be the utmost in anything that you do.”

-”The best leader I ever had was Darsie Rogers…he challenged you to do things that were outside the norm.”

-”Just worry about what’s down and in. I will worry about up and out.”

-”War brings out the worst, the ugliest in you. Now that it’s post-war, now this should bring out the best of Americans; and I only want the best that’s going to be in Special Operations to lead that charge.”

Kevin’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Structured mobility and breathing exercises every morning to wake the body.

-Eat healthy; not perfect, but well.

-Put the phone down and move!

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#039: The United States Army - Vice Chief of Staff - General (Ret.) Peter Chiarelli

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Some organizations are so vast, so large, and so dynamic that it is often almost impossible to comprehend the scale and complexity; making leadership the most important factor in performance.

General(R) Peter Chiarelli served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Army, an organization of over 1.1 million employees and a budget of $240 billion dollars. General Chiarelli is one of our nation's most innovative leaders; always challenging the way the Army operated. He transitioned the Army from Vietnam, through the Cold War and into the modern Army of today.

General Chiarelli and Host Fran Racioppi discuss the General’s career, his days as a professor at West Point, how he led the medical industry in changing the way we view post traumatic stress, how COVID has set the example for collaboration and teamwork, the importance of wearables in tracking our health, the lessons of the war in Iraq, and what type of leaders we need in our nation today.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-GEN Chiarelli recounts his early days in the Army in the post-Vietnam era and how not getting into law school changed his life.

-GEN Chiarelli explains how the West Point Department of Social Sciences forces leaders to think differently about challenges which leads to innovation.

-Traumatic brain injury was relatively unstudied prior to the war in Iraq; GEN Chiarelli questioned the doctors and forced them to think differently about how the Army treated these cases.

-GEN Chiarelli breaks down the stigma behind post traumatic stress, and how he has led the medical industry in dropping the word “disorder” from the diagnosis.

-Fran and GEN Chiarelli discuss the importance of wearables in the reduction of Veteran suicide; including Nightware, a product replacing the use of prescription drugs.

-The COVID vaccine development is used as an example of how teamwork in medical research can advance medical innovation and save lives.

-GEN Chiarelli explains how he prepared the 1st Cavalry Division, the US Army’s heaviest division, to fight in Baghdad and how his leaders adapted to learn about basic services and providing essential training to the Iraqi defense forces.

-Fran and GEN Chiarelli examine the lessons of the war in Iraq, the importance of a whole-of-government approach to conflict and the impact of General Colin Powell and Norman Schwarzkopf.

Quotes:

-”I came in for four and it ended up being 40.”

-“That’s the essence of team building, to not be in the transmit mode all the time. You never learn anything when you’re talking.”

-”How can you go up to a woman who has been violently sexually assaulted…and say she has a disorder because of that.”

-“I’m a big fan of wearables. I think they are going to be particularly useful in the military population who is tired of being given a bag of pills.”

-“Leadership is about listening.”

-”I always tell young leaders, remember what really upset you.”

-”We did not fight these wars with a whole-of-government approach.”

-“We need to break some of the molds that have guided us in the past.”

GEN Chiarelli’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Make my bed to complete one task

-Dedicate 60 minutes to read something outside of my comfort zone

-Determine what my team needs from me to achieve their mission

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#038: Midnight Express Powerboats - President Harris Glaser

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 20:02:40 GMT

Midnight Express sets the standard as the leader in luxury center console powerboats. In this episode, Host Fran Racioppi travels to Miami to combine his passion for boats, journalism, and the beach as he sits down with Harris Glaser, President and Owner of Midnight Express.

Harris, along with his brother Eric, bought Midnight Express in 2006 and have since redefined the boating industry bringing unparalleled design and construction, elaborate color schemes, flawless precision and unmatched performance.

Fran and Harris discuss entrepreneurism, building an iconic brand, precision engineering, high-level customer experience, the importance of human capital, and the keys to building a successful family business. We also discuss the impact the loss of his father had on the company and his family; and how COVID has propelled the boating industry into uncharted seas.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Harris explains the history of Midnight Express, the rebranding efforts after the company was acquired by his family, and how their design and color patterns have changed the boating industry.

-As a family business, Harris and his brother Eric jumped into building a boat manufacturing company and have complementary skill sets as an entrepreneur and an engineer. Harris credits his father, Bert, in mentoring and leading them in the early days of the company and describes the details of how he and Eric split responsibilities and resolve brotherly disputes.

-Fran and Harris break down the proprietary construction methods used to build each custom boat, as well as some of the wildest requests the team has been asked to build.

-Harris gives The Jedburgh Podcast the exclusive first look, never publicly released details on the brand new Midnight Express 52’ coming this winter.

-Government and law enforcement have different requirements for their boats; Harris explains how Midnight Express worked with Customs and Border Patrol to customize the boats to their needs.

-Harris shows the importance of access as the owner of a premium brand, how he empowers his team to take ownership, and his thoughts on making mistakes.

-Despite supply chain disruption, Harris describes how boating has skyrocketed since the start of COVID, but also how Midnight Express has weathered multiple industry setbacks throughout the years.

Quotes:

-”You see it and you know it’s a Midnight Express.”

-”We can adapt the boat to be able to get what they want out of it.”

-“We don’t throw many marketing dollars out there, but social media has been very impactful.”

-“Content, content, content...create new content. Create better content.”

-”I don’t think there is any one master plan for family businesses...communication is key to even having a hint of hope to making it successful.”

-”It took me time to learn humility. Certainly when I was 22, humility was not oozing out of my veins.”

-”Even when you are right, sometimes you give anyways.”

-”I’m ok if you make a mistake...you lie to me...that’s when we have problems.”

-”We found our way around without having to sacrifice quality.”

Harris’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Communicate effectively and openly

-Show gratitude to all people, regardless of role and level

-Think macro but get micro quickly when needed

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#037: Championship Formula – Jack Stark

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Winning teams and companies aren’t built overnight. Leadership and a championship formula are needed for an organization to win. Dynasties are created when leaders apply this formula year in and year out without compromise.

In this episode, Fran Racioppi discusses how championship dynasties are built with renowned performance psychologist Dr. Jack Stark. Jack has been a part of 22 national championships, eight NASCAR championships with Hendrick Motorsports, as well as multiple Olympic and professional teams. He has authored or co-authored 12 books, treated over 10,000 patients as a psychologist, and worked with over 100 companies, many in the Fortune 500.

This episode is filled with lists that any leader, in any organization, in any industry can bring to their teams today to make an impact.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Jack defines a dynasty and explains how DYNASTY=P4 (People, Personality, Process, Purpose)

-Dynasties require four specific roles within the organization: Thinker, Promoter, Coordinator, and a Corps of Action Oriented Staff.

-Fran and Jack compare Jack’s nine C.H.A.R.A.C.T.E.R attributes to the nine characteristics of elite performance used by Special Operations to evaluate talent.

-Jack breaks down the importance of analytical thinking using induction vs deduction in our problem solving process in an effort to develop breakthrough ideas.

-Jack builds dynasties through the SPEED process (Select, Plan, Execute, Educate, Document).

-Assessment is an integral part of building teams and talent. Fran and Jack describe different methods to assess talent and performance including Jack’s Behavioral Assessment and Selection Survey (BASS).

-Purpose guides us and consists of a dream, a love, and a mentor.

-Jack describes his diamond-shaped mental process to approaching competition.

-Fran coins the term Jack’s “Factors of Failure” to identify how the stages of moral development can determine a leader’s likelihood of failure.

Quotes:

-”Culture is how we behave as a group. Our values. Our attitudes.”

-“One player, one play, one game, can determine a season.”

-”Leadership is a word used by many but truly understood by few.”

-”If you don’t have character, you can’t lead.”

-“You get up every day and decide your attitude.”

-“The greatest leaders are great teachers.”

-“It’s not just hard work; it’s the focus you have.”

-“People fail not because they are not smart...they fail because of some sort of moral flaw.”

“Make sure you do one thing with your kids...teach them how to love and be loved.”

“40% of college athletes actually suffer from some form of a psychological disorder or mental health issue.”

Jack’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Evaluate my dream and pursue it daily

-Look to my mentors for guidance

-Share my life with someone who loves me

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#036: Sana Health - CEO Richard Hanbury

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Richard Hanbury is the CEO and founder of Sana Health, the company behind the Sana device. It's an innovative audiovisual device that trains brain pathways to reduce pain. Richard founded the company to save his own life after he was forced to drive his car off a bridge in Yemen. He was 19 and he lost the use of his legs. Richard developed Sana as a long-term solution to the root causes of pain and as an alternative to prescription drugs; which often only mask the pain and cause untold adverse effects on patients.

Find out how Bruce Willis saved his life and how he dove into wearable technology. Learn more about his clinical trials on fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. Richard also shares three of the most profound daily foundations of success we have heard to date on the podcast.

Sana has won numerous medical industry awards including the MedTech Innovator Award and the Under Armour Innovation Award. Richard joins host Fran Racioppi to tell his entrepreneurial story of resilience, adaptability, innovation, and his mission to save not only his life, but the lives of all those suffering from chronic pain and opioid addiction.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Richard describes the life-changing car accident in Yemen which left him paralyzed, in a coma, clinically dead and diagnosed with less than five years to live.

-Richard explains how he took his medical future into his own hands studying the extent of his injuries and associated nerve damage to develop a non-invasive and non-narcotic solution to reduce the pain and improve sleep.

-Fran and Richard walk through the entrepreneurial story of Sana Health as they discuss the first versions of the hardware and software, as well as the iteration of the technology required to support the around-the-world flights of Sir Richard Branson and Bertand Piccard; including sitting in a lobby to cold approach engineers!

-Sana is described in detail providing a first hand, founder look at how it was designed, how it helps to clear a busy mind, support enhanced relaxation, improve sleep management, reduce stress and enhance recovery from fatigue.

-Richard discusses receiving FDA breakthrough status legitimizing the need for a device like Sana.

Quotes:

-“It stayed laptops, wires and boxes until Bertrand Piccard.”

-“I used that as an excuse to harass everyone coming into the building.”

-“Wearables were just not a thing...next year I will finally have what I wanted to build.”

-“The more pain you are in the more you are going to damage your sleep...and once you damage your sleep, you are damaging everything.”

-“Where is the pill that I can pop that is going to solve my problem. The human body and human brain don’t work like that.”

-“However bad a day is, I can guarantee you anybody can find one thing or one person that did something to help them that day.”

Richard’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Journal to express gratitude to determine what brings you happiness

-Make your bed

-Spend time doing the things that make you happy (and not work!)

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#035: Velontra Hypersonics - Major General Craig Whelden & Rob Keane III

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:00:00 GMT

The rapidly growing industry of hypersonic propulsion requires both sage experience and youthful vigor. The team at Velontra Hypersonics has both. Host Fran Racioppi is joined in this episode by their President, retired Major General Craig Whelden, and their founder and CEO, Rob Keane.

General Whelden brings 40 years of leadership and experience in the defense industry. Rob brings engineering and innovation. Together they are propelling objects at five times the speed of sound and disrupting an industry that has long been dominated by major defense contractors. Pushing the sound barrier has not been done since the 1950's. It was an area the United States once dominated, but today we are losing ground to China.

Rob shares the technology needed to move faster than we ever have, how he has implemented the FAST model to problem solving, and why bringing in Craig was so integral to compete. Craig provides his command philosophy, the importance of character in choosing your team, and his top leadership quirks that bring organizations, and people, all the wrong attention.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran presses Craig and Rob on the importance of senior leadership in young companies and the value young leaders get from bringing in seasoned leadership to their executive teams.

-Craig defines inspired leadership and provides examples of both right and wrong when taking over organizations and instilling your work ethic.

-Rob explains the FAST model of innovation (Fast, Attritable, Scalable, Tangible)

-Craig delivers his leadership quirks to building organizations built on transparency and standards.

-A deep conversation about hypersonic propulsion, America’s race against China in the development of hypersonic technology, and a history of the innovation of propulsion systems in the defense sector.

Quotes:

-“We are vertically aligned so we design both the aircraft and the propulsion system.”

-“We are currently flat out behind the Chinese in the field of hypersonics and hypersonic propulsion.”

-“I’ve got lots and lots of rocks in my rucksack that I have picked up over decades… you use the experiences of your life to shape what you might do in the future.”

-“I trust you until you demonstrate that you are not worthy of that trust. That puts a healthy pressure on people.”

-“Character is a foundation, without which, just about everything else fails”

-“You really see the strength of a person’s character when they are under pressure. It holds or you see it fall apart.”

-“If they don’t have character it almost doesn’t matter what technical skills they bring to the table.”

-“When Craig came on the team the very first feedback he gave us was that Rob is doing too much.”

-“The team is the number one reason startups fail. That is the number one risk.”

-“You have to put yourself in the shoes of the other person...how is your message going to be received?”

Craig’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Make a List

-Work the List

-Be thankful

Rob’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Never quit

-Do something

-Have fun

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#034: Risk: A User's Guide - General Stan McChrystal

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Risk exists in every corner of our professional and personal lives. Risk is something we as leaders cannot - and should not - shy from. How we choose to detect, assess, respond and learn determines if our organizations (and we as leaders) succeed or fail.

In this episode General Stan McChrystal joins Host Fran Racioppi and special guest host Lisa Jaster, to break down Stan's new book "Risk: A User's guide." They define the Risk Immune System and explain how the 10 Factors of Control guide us in understanding and mitigating risk by taking action. They tie-in Afghanistan as Stan provides his assessment of the 20-year Global War on Terror. Stan explains the decisions behind the withdrawal. And he shares his insight on the next battlefield.

This is our Veteran's Day episode. In honor of all those who have served our nation Fran, Stan and Lisa share their thoughts on America today, our position as the bastion of hope and freedom, and how we all come together as Americans to build a resilient future.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Stan defines risk as a simple mathematical equation and how buying into risk analysis breeds responsibility, accountability and ownership in organizations.

-The Risk Immune System is made up of our ability to Detect, Assess, Respond and Learn from the threats that come to us.

-The 10 Factors of Control are the levers leaders use to respond to and mitigate risks.

-Stan challenges traditional thought on recruiting mid to senior level military leaders from the civilian workforce, in addition to growing talent from the junior levels.

-Stan discusses the priorities of the war in Afghanistan providing his assessment of the risk checklist President Biden faced when determining strategic policy and its effect on diplomacy, military action and people.

-Fran asks Stan to provide an After Action Review of the Global War on Terror, the 9/11 response and the invasion of Iraq resulting in the toppling of Saddam Huseein and the effect on the entire Middle East.

-Fran, Stan and Lisa provide their assessment of the state of America, the next battlefield of cyber & hybrid warfare, and the role of politics and disunity today.

Quotes:

-”If we can do away with all our threats, good on us. Because anything times zero is zero. But we can’t do that.”

-“We put leaders in positions to take very difficult, sometimes hazy situations and make bold but probability-based rational decisions.”

-”Each of these 10 Factors forms into a system...you don’t have to max all of them perfectly in your plan, but any you violate...you’ve got a gaping hole of vulnerability.”

-”Whether it’s the right decision, or the wrong one, I think President biden’s decision was courageous because he was going to get attacked no matter what he did.”

-“We are viewed as less reliable partners, less consistent, less resolute than we would like to be considered...but we have to navigate from where we are; not from where we wish we were.”

-”I would describe America as a promise...a promise that we can be stronger, more prosperous, safer...if we unite.”

Stan’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Work out to remain centered

-Take care of the family

-Fulfill promises made to others

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#033: SOAA - Daniel Elkins, Founder

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Special Operations Forces volunteer to answer the call to protect our nation and its people in every corner of the world. They look out for us so we can live our lives in freedom and liberty. Daniel Elkins founded Special Operations Association of America to give a voice to our Special Operators in policy and legislative affairs.

This episode is our lead up to the first Veterans Day in two decades in which our nation is not in a declared war. However, brave men and women stand ready to serve - and take action - each and every day. Daniel joins host Fran Racioppi to discuss the founding of SOAA and their work supporting Special Operators, displaced Afghan refugees, those affected by burnout and Operator Syndrome, as well as to share his personal story of service as a Green Beret.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The history of SOAA and its goal to provide policy advocacy as the voice of Special Operations Forces on legislative affairs.

-Daniel shares how his early career in anti-human and sex trafficking shaped his views on injustice in the world instilling in him the Special Forces motto of “De Oppresso Liber” - free the oppressed.

-Fran and Daniel have an in-depth conversation about violence in the world, how it affects our Special Operators, how different cultures in the world view violence as a part of life, and why military action is the final step of diplomacy.

-A breakdown of current SOAA initiatives to include advocating for changes in policy that currently restrict Special Operators from decision-making on the ground, the rise of Operator Syndrome among high-level performers, and the application of VA benefits.

-SOAA’s efforts to relocate and resettle Afghan refugees displaced by the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, as well as their assistance to continue to assist and evacuate many still there.

-Daniel shares his emotional personal story of supporting friends with Operator Syndrome and how quickly it has debilitated high performers around him.

Quotes:

-”The idea was formed around being a voice for the SOF community.”

-”The goal is to get operators who have recently transitioned and people with the ground truth that have dirt under their fingernails into the highest levels of policy makers and decision makers to help them make informed decisions.”

-”I was confronted with the reality of the world we live in.”

-”If you engage in violence in war should you be happy about that, or should you be ashamed?”

-”I realized that...there was a vast disconnect between the ground truth and what policy-makers and decision-makers were considering and why.”

-”Many people who we have resettled are from the Afghan National Army or the Commando Force.”

-”Walking someone through that process galvanized me...if no one does this, who will?”

-“Suicide is 30% higher in the SOF community than it is in the rest of the military...these people are not coming into this program and these pipelines broken.”

Daniel’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Wake up before the sun and conduct physical activity

-Do the most important task of the day first

-Learn continuously

(And do all this before breakfast!)

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#032: WHOOP - Kristen Holmes, VP Of Performance Science

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

WHOOP has changed the game in human performance and our ability to understand what our body is telling us so we can make actionable decisions about our physical, mental and emotional health.

In this episode WHOOP's VP of Performance Science, Kristen Holmes joins host Fran Racioppi to break down human performance, the evolution of data and how we use it to reach our peak levels, the importance of rest as the driver of workload, her four characteristics of elite performance, how to build successful teams and athletes for the long term, and what we have coined Kristen’s Pathways to Attention.

WHOOP just closed a $200m funding round and is the fastest growing wearable technology in the world. They are now valued at over $3.6 billion. Kristen spent 13 years as the Head Coach of Princeton University's Women's Field Hockey Team where she won 12 Ivy League Championships and the school's first National Championship. She is a 2021 Iowa Athletics Hall Fame Inductee, 3 x All American, 2 x Big 10 Athlete of the Year competing in both Field Hockey and Basketball and a 7-year member of the U.S. National Team.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-WHOOP’s rise to incredible valuation, the focus on data as a leading indicator of performance, and their positioning in the wearables market.

-Our choices affect our behavior, including our sleep patterns, nutritional choices and how we choose to recover mentally and physically.

-Kristen breaks down her decision to join WHOOP after winning 12 championships in 13 years as a Division 1 collegiate coach.

-Kristen provides insight into her coaching mindset, developing a culture of performance, and the principles she instilled in the organization to set a foundation for winning.

-Why tolerance, innovation, presence and internal fitness are Kristen’s core leadership values.

-Fran coins the term “Kristen’s Pathways to Attention” and she explains the importance of breathwork.

Quotes:

-”It’s not data for the sake of data, it’s data so we can coach you to a better future.”

-“We see incredible behavior modification...data really helps you face the truth.“

-”You can’t just talk yourself into a better future. You really have to get your physiology on track.”

-”We can’t perceive our own cognitive and physical declines.”

-”I’ve never been one to chase security and happiness…those are kind of illusions.”

-”I chase personal growth, professional growth and intellectual growth...I chase impact.”

-”Tolerance is just a reminder that I don’t necessarily have the answer to everything.”

-”I love the idea of being able to discover. I love the idea of being able to innovate.”

-”Being present is the path to peace.”

-”If I understand who it is I want to be, I can align my behaviors in the right way.”

-”If you come to training with capacity, and you then train with quality, it is very hard to lose.”

Kristen’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Go to bed and wake up at the same time to set a repeatable pattern

-Find sunshine within 20 minutes of waking up

-Breathe through your nose to control your physiology

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#031: Head Of The Charles - Olympic Medalist Gevvie Stone

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

The Head of The Charles is rowing's premier international competition. The sport requires the highest standards of physical and mental drive, discipline, toughness, preparation and the need for precision execution.

In this episode, host Fran Racioppi is joined by one of rowing's fiercest competitors and the greatest of all time on the Charles River. Gevvie Stone is a three-time Olympian and the 2016 Rio Games Silver Medalist in the women's single. She has won the Head of The Charles 10 times in the Championship Single, including six in a row from 2014-2019.

Gevvie lays out the importance of physical, mental and emotional strength; how a dedication to standards is essential to compete at the highest levels; and why trust and confidence in yourself and your team are developed one stroke at a time over years.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran and Gevvie recall the history of The Head of The Charles, the importance of the event to the sport of rowing, and the community developed through shared purpose.

-Gevvie breaks down the race course, explains her mental approach to the competition and how to effectively execute a race plan.

-As the all-time leader in wins, Gevvie talks about the expectations of winning and her decision to step away from the elite category.

-Gevvie’s parents were both national team members and her father is her coach. She shares the importance of being able to ‘choose’ rowing for herself, her lessons for parents raising athletic children and the dynamic relationship with her father.

-In 2008 Gevvie was cut from the US National Team; something that lit a fire in her to earn three Olympic appearances.

-Gevvie’s 2016 Silver Medal Olympic experience was the result of controlling the uncontrollables as a freak storm forced her to adapt and focus her energy on the fundamentals.

-Fran and Gevvie dig deep into the mental, physical and emotional aspects of performance in rowing and how the sport is filled with some of the toughest athletes on the planet.

Quotes:

-“Head of The Charles holds a special place in my heart.”

-”If I feel nauseous. If I feel butterflies. That is a good thing. It means that my body is ready to go.”

-”My parents put no pressure on me to row. In fact, avoided rowing at first because it was their thing and I didn’t want to do what my parents did.”

-“On the National Team you make it or you don’t. Only half the team will actually race...I don’t think I was mature enough to understand that.”

-“I didn’t make the team. I shouldn’t have made the team.”

-”Rowing is hard...hard things bond people together more than easy things.”

-”Being a successful rower is more up to the mental side of things than the physical side of things.”

-”I couldn’t have asked for a better year in my career to be in the double. It strengthened my weaknesses.”

-“We came to practice every day wanting to improve and with intent; and put it all on the table in the run up to Tokyo.”

-”People need to find what fuels them up...for me it was the underdog.”

Gevvie’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Stretch the mind and the body

-Communicate a major goal for the day and talk through challenges

-Keep a journal with a focus on achieving expectations

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#030: American Ninja Warrior - Jessie Graff

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

The highest levels of physical performance require the utmost mental and emotional strength. To achieve the impossible, we must first believe that the impossible can be achieved if we only put our minds - and our bodies - to the test. Jessie Graff is an American Ninja Warrior, a stuntwoman, a martial arts expert and an inspiration to all those who seek to defy physics and elite performance.

Jessie joins host Fran Racioppi to share her leadership lessons on competition, the mental approach to negotiating complex problems, combatting failure through expectation management and how every setback is an opportunity to grow.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Jessie describes how her affection for flying, love for the freedom of weightlessness, and the open air has been a driving force in her career and decision-making.

-Effective training is guided by purpose, but clarity of purpose is not required to generate positive results.

-Jessie explains how preparation and planning for the unknowns is the key to handling the uncontrollables. We cannot control all aspects of a competition but we can control how we prepare and how we react.

-Fran and Jessie discuss effective ways to handle the pressure of the moment when all eyes are on us to perform. Jessie explains her ability to focus on the details of the task at hand vs the noise around her when in the spotlight.

-No stranger to injury, Jessie is one of the most resiliency and adaptive competitors. She provides a glimpse into her mental approach to recovery from injury, how she focuses on expectations, ad her focus on small victories.

-Jessie shares how her love for learning, exploring new skills, and building new capability has helped her through injury, become a better strength trainer herself, and learn sign language during “Signing Sundays.”

Quotes:

-”I’m willing to do the work if it gets me to this amazing goal.”

-”There is this community of ‘if I help you become a better performer, we work together as a better team when we get hired on a job.”

-”Engineering comes into so much stunts and so much Ninja Warrior.”

-“I assume there is a trick in every obstacle. If you look at something and think, ‘I should be able to do that...you are missing something.”

-“I love impossible goals...those are the ones that drive me the most.”

-”If I don’t respect the challenge..it will surprise me.”

-”Having a specific purpose you are passionate about is almost a luxury.”

-”When I fall it can initially feel really heartbreaking...so I really have to look at ‘what is the purpose of this training.’”

-”You can blame a lot of outside sources., but does that make me better?”

-”What thought process is going to give me the best results. What situations does that pressure help me...and when does it hurt me.”

-”I’ve been able to grow from every injury I’ve had.”

Jessie’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Sleep to enhance focus and drive

-Hydrate to maintain nutrition and balance

-Exercise to stay active and engaged

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#029: Chaos - 2021 PLL Champions - Andy Towers

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

On August 11, the Chaos were given a 3.2% chance of winning the Premier Lacrosse League. They were the sixth seed going into the playoffs and were given no respect. Today, they are the 2021 PLL champions.

Head Coach Andy Towers joins host Fran Racioppi on the first follow-up episode of The Jedburgh Podcast proving that his goal to peak at the right time was achievable.

Coach Towers explains how he focused the team to play the same style of game, how he valued chemistry over raw talent in personnel decisions, the resiliency the team showed after starting the season 0-3, and how the best players prepared relentlessly for precision execution.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The importance of creating a team culture in which every player is playing the same style and with the same goals.

-How chemistry was the critical component to success on the 2021 team; a value that led to difficult personnel decisions for some of the top-rated players.

-Coach Towers provides a detailed breakdown of the playoff run, the resiliency in the semifinal game after going down in the second quarter, and the tactics he used to keep the team focused on the big picture and playing their game.

-Fran and Andy highlight the leadership and work ethic of some of the key players, including PLL MVP Blaze Riorden and Defenseman Jack Rowlett.

-Coach Towers evaluates his performance in the league after initially being deemed an alternate head coach and having gone on to win Coach of the Year, a PLL Championship and second place finish.

Quotes:

-“The only opinions that matter are the opinions of the people in your locker room.”

-“Balance in all areas is something that you strive for.”

-“Finding that commonality, that binding element that creates a better group than they are a group of individuals “

-“A team that is connected can become dangerous very very quickly”

-“We were able to peak at the right time and prove that chemistry is the most important factor as it relates to winning the PLL championship.”

-“Responsibility is for the group. Accountability is for yourself.”

-“It’s easy to be team first when you are in the lineup…you find out who is truly, authentically in it for team success when you take them out of the lineup.”

-“Everything in our locker room is a conversation.”

-“Instead of us going into the locker and losing our minds, it was us going into the locker room and regaining our mind.”

-“Make them have to manage us…make them have to deal with us.”

-“The 2021 Chaos Lacrosse Club accomplished its goal…but we go into 2022 with the 2022 Chaos Lacrosse Club.”

Chaos Lacrosse Club Offseason Foundations to Success:

-Don’t forget the importance of remaining connected

-Next season is a new and unique opportunity

-Have fun and enjoy playing

This episode is brought to you by 18A Fitness and Analytix Solutions.

#028: Stuckey's - CEO Stephanie Stuckey

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Stuckey's has been a staple of America's highways. At its peak, Stuckey's pecan rolls, Texaco gas, and homemade candies dotted almost every interstate across every state. But a series of buy-outs and lack of attention shuttered this iconic American staple.

In this episode, Fran Racioppi is joined by Stephanie Stuckey - the third generation Stuckey to run the brand after buying it out of near bankruptcy two years ago. Stephanie is a lawyer by trade now leading not only a chain of franchised roadside stops and a pecan snack company, but also the resurgence of the American road trip.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Stephanie explains the opportunity in owning and scaling family businesses, recounts the history of how Stuckey’s grew, and lays out her path to turn the company around.

-The Stuckey’s brand is an example of a company’s need to continuously evolve and pivot to meet changing customer requirements, while maintaining quality control and brand value.

-Stephanie provides her views on entrepreneurship, failure and the definition of “The Girl Boss.”

-Stephanie shares her perspective on storytelling, building a community on social media and how she grew her following from 0 to over 60,000 in 18 months.

-Fran and Stephanie show the importance of brands placing focus on their strengths and the value they bring to their customers through an in depth discussion on Pecans.

Quotes:

-”Initially it was just making money. It was his side hustle...When he started to get the vision was when he realized he was starting to solve a problem.”

-“The visionary founder was no longer around to help steer the direction of Stuckey’s...it lost the magic.”

-”There is a reason that family businesses fail. It’s because that sense of excitement and entrepreneurial spirit gets lost over the generations.”

-“Handing wealth to the next generation does not instill hard work ethic at all.”

-”I focused on my strengths. I’m a big believer in strength building and looking at what is your core competency; and then you compliment that with others who fill in your gaps.”

-”The great thing about being at the bottom is that you have nothing to lose.”

-“I think it’s poor manners if all you ever do is post about yourself and you don’t comment on other people’s posts.”

-”Empowering a smart, energetic management team to then filter down to the people they supervise is what is going to help create the brand.”

-”In any good brand you are building a community internally and externally.”

-“For every ‘yes’, there are four to five ‘no’s.’ You are constantly having to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep going.”

-”When you are small and scrappy, you have to distinguish yourself. You cannot win the volume game.”

-”If you are not failing, you are not truly an entrepreneur.”

Stephanie’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Do something creative

-Keep a gratitude journal

-Exercise to maintain consistency

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#027: Letters To My White Male Friends - Dax-Devlon Ross

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Race is an uncomfortable conversation. Recent events like the death of George Floyd and Breana Taylor sparked race conversations, racial tensions, movements like Black Lives Matter, and corporate action. These events have forced us to look inward and challenge our thoughts, perspectives and views on race and the role race plays in our conscious and unconscious bias. In this episode, host Fran Racioppi joined by investigative journalist, Dax Devlon-Ross to discuss his new book, Letters To My White Male Friends.

Dax and Fran break down the race divide between black and white. They define and analyze present day examples of systemic racism and why they exist. Dax shares his personal experiences of growing up in Washington, DC. We lay out Dax's LENS (Listen, Empathize, Notice, Speak) framework for how we move forward...together. And in a section called, Dax's Decision-Points, he lays out his checklist for solving any complex issue.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Dax provides examples of systemic racism in America, an explanation of how we got here, and how we change it.

-We tie the Special Operations nine characteristics of elite performance into Dax’s seven core beliefs of Bravery, Community, History, Honesty, Humility, Inquiry, and Story.

-Fran and Dax discuss the role of charities in society, the gap they fill and the impact many do (and do not) have.

-Identity, and how a person identifies themself, is an important factor in how they view dominance, subordination and their role in society.

-Dax explains the current, and dangerous, tendency of leaders to not make important decisions, default to group think and their genuine fear of taking action that some people may not agree with.

-How to develop diversity, equity and inclusion programs that are not a result of woke culture, but focused on accepting the current norms, identifying the true goals and empowering community in the organization.

-Dax shares an emotional personal account of becoming a victim of racism and violence towards black youth.

Quotes:

-”I resist the idea that I was well off. I embrace the idea that I was middle class.”

-”A system can pivot to create opportunity, or a system can pivot to close off opportunities.”

-”Systemically racist policies typically have an effect on a disparate group of people, even though the writing or the letter of the policy may appear to be neutral.”

-”I have to be convinced of the belief of a racial hierarchy in order for me to subjugate other human beings.”

-”These are societal problems that society must solve. This is the role of government.”

-“If you are born into poverty the likelihood is that you will live in poverty, die in poverty, and your children will live and die in poverty.”

-”When you create more diversity you create more equity.”

-”I don’t just want to hear about your success...what I want to know is how you navigated your shortcomings.”

Dax’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Love my family

-Set aside time for deep reflection

-Movement (exercise)

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#026: Eat The Change - Seth Goldman

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Driving change begins with the need to build something you believe in. Seth Goldman is the founder and Chief Change Agent at Eat The Change. He is also the Chairman of the Board at Beyond Meat and the Co-founder and former Tea-EO of Honest Tea.

Seth joins this episode to break down entrepreneurism, how to build something from nothing and how the nine characteristics of elite performance are required to scale and exit a successful business.

Seth also shares his 3-P's of Entrepreneurship, how the Boston Red Sox taught him important lessons on resilience and adaptability, the selection process for choosing the right business partner, and how entrepreneurs cannot delegate anything in the very beginning.

Seth and Fran also discuss his New York Times bestseller Mission in a Bottle, written with Honest Tea Co-Founder Professor Barry Nalebuff, and Seth’s newest initiatives around plant-based burgers and mushroom jerky!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Seth quantifies ‘drive’ and the need to be all-in on the risks behind starting a business; including his journey at Honest Tea which he started and led for 21 years from nothing to sales of over 100 million units/year and acquisition by Coca-Cola.

-Seth explains his 3-P’s of Entrepreneurship, the need to remain resilient and adaptable, and the importance of being fiscally responsible.

-Fran presses Seth on his most challenging moments building Honest Tea and Eat the Change, and what he learned from each of these experiences.

-Team ability and partnership define Seth’s career as an entrepreneur. He shares his lessons on role clarity, how to pick the right business partner, and how he selects his team.

-Seth shares insights into his new initiative creating mushroom jerky and plant-based burgers alongside Chef Spike Mendelsohn.

Quotes:

-“Change is about moving from where we are to where we should be. It’s an aspirational vision.”

-“You can’t wait for the world to change. You must be changing it.”

-”Every time we eat a meal we have a chance to make an impact.”

-“For all entrepreneurs we have to be optimists. You wouldn’t start something if you didn’t have the hope that it would work out.”

-”The most important resource an entrepreneur has isn’t time…it’s energy.”

-”If I had said I can only get in with a big distributor the business wouldn’t have gotten off the ground.”

-”Understand the terrain. Understand your tools. Don’t try to compete with someone else’s tools.”

-”Can a business be a vehicle for change? If we are meeting the consumers' needs then we get to pursue the issues we care about.”

-“Unless you have humility, you are not really going to empower your team.”

-”As long as there is clarity of roles then co-founders can be great...As long as we have clarity of roles then we can be complementary to each other.”

Seth’s Three Daily Foundations to Success

-Make the bed with my wife to achieve something together.

-Exercise to clear my head and connect with myself.

-Do what I say I am going to do.

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#025: No One Left Behind - Afghanistan And The Global War On Terror

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:06:00 GMT

September 11, 2001 changed the world forever. The United States of America was attacked by Osama Bin Laden and the Al-Qaeda Terrorist Network. They were provided safe haven and protection by the Taliban. Within weeks of the attack, United Special Forces - the Green Berets launched an offensive into Afghanistan backed by the power of the US Air Force. The Taliban was defeated in weeks.

Since then, the United States and the international community have built and supported the Afghan government and the Afghan military as part of the Global War on Terror. Now, 20 years later, the United States has left Afghanistan. The Taliban is back in control of the country. Thousands of Afghans are displaced and back under threat by an oppressive regime. An unknown number of American citizens remain stranded. And the world is left wondering both...how did we get here...and where do we go from here.

Host Fran Racioppi is joined by former Secretary of Defense Chris Miller, No One Left Behind Board Members Mariah Smith and JD Dolan, and Sonia Nawrooz - an Afghan immigrant whose family remains stranded in Kabul. Secretary Miller was one of the first Green Berets into Afghanistan in 2001. Mariah, JD and Sonia lead No One Left Behind and its mission to support the relocation, resettlement and humanitarian efforts to aid displaced Afghan refugees. Mariah and JD have each served in Afghanistan three times. Sonia is an Ambassador to incoming Afghan immigrants to the United States.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The group shares their 9/11 stories of where they were, the impact the attack had on each of them and how they have answered the nation's call since.

-We break down the rise of the Taliban and how 200 Special Operators and Paramilitary Officers defeated them in 2001.

-We analyze how America’s investment and presence for 20 years in Afghanistan has still resulted in a chaotic withdrawal, the resurgence of the Taliban and an equally dire situation in Afghanistan now.

-The group lays out the next steps politically, diplomatically and militarily for the United States and the international community in Afghanistan.

-No One Left Behind explains their mission to resettle Afghan refugees now displaced, how the Special Immigrant Visa process works, and how we can all get involved.

Quotes:

-”My heart and my mind are with all the women and girls stuck there...history is repeating itself.”

-”We trained them to fight a different way...it was completely predictable to me.”

-”I had hoped that there would be a way that the international community and us, the US, would have stayed involved for multiple generations.”

-“This is what we created Special Forces for. The mission of the Special Forces Regiment was to go behind enemy lines, link up with insurgent, surrogate forces and overthrow tyrannical regimes.”

-”My translator’s still there. My friend is still there. What can I do? What should I do?”

-“If I don’t do this, who will perish? This becomes a moral obligation.”

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#024: Country Music Television – Lauryn Snapp

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Music generates an emotional response in all of us. Music can motivate us and make us smile. It can transport us to the past and make us cry. Music can bring us together. Or...it can remind us when it's time to move apart.

Country music has taken center stage in the battle for musical dominance. In this episode, Lauryn Snapp, writer, producer and on-air personality at Country Music Television, shows us how Country is built on connecting fans and artists through meaningful connection, community, and how the days of boots, spurs, hats and tumbleweeds have evolved into a genre we can all identify with.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Lauryn explains the rise in popularity of country music, its inclusivity and its ability to bring people together in meaningful ways.

-Fran and Lauryn break down the entertainment industry’s adoption of social media as the primary means of communication with fans and how the shift from CDs to streaming has advanced the pace and authenticity of the industry.

-Lauryn defines the importance of building in person relationships on our teams and within our organizations; relationships that cannot be replicated remotely.

-How Tik-Tok has changed how artists connect with their audience.

-Lauryn shares her “Space to Create” and “Makes You Feel” campaigns aimed at driving creative spirit and innovation at Warner Media.

-Fran challenges Lauryn’s leadership lessons on a segment called Lauryn’s Leadership Chords:

--"Realize the things that you are really good at and what you are not good at - and own it"

--"Problem solve something until you know you cannot find the answer"

--"I would rather have someone ask a million questions and do a knockout job then not ask any questions and do quasi"

--"Act with integrity"

--"We are always in edit mode"

--"Be a part of now. There is freedom in presence"

Quotes:

-”Country music is a human genre...if you have a heartbeat, there is going to be a song for you in country music.”

-”We are all human and we want to feel emotion.”

-”I got to grow up with people who were constantly challenging me.”

-”Nashville is a relationship-based town.”

-”I want to make music visual. I want to be telling stories. I want to help curate the future of country music.”

-”It’s our responsibility to find innovative ways to bring people together.”

-”Empower the people...invigorate the process...find ways to lead the industry.”

-”If you are a leader...do it with a people first mentality.”

-“Show up fully and be completely prepared.”

-”Luck is founded fully in people who are prepared to take on a new opportunity.”

-”People want to work with people who work hard and have a great attitude.”

-”There are going to be times in your life where you need to be present or you are going to miss out on an opportunity.”

Lauryn’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Do what is needed for overall wellness

-Be vulnerable and intentional

-Show up fully...put everything you have into everything you do.

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#023: Soulbbatical - Shelley Paxton

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Most of us wake up every day and should all over ourselves. In fact we should all over ourselves all day every day. We rarely ever take a step to do the things we actually want to do. Instead, we do all the things we think we should do. What if we decided one day to stop the madness. To stop shoulding all over ourselves, and on everyone else, and pursue our own dreams along our own path.

Shelley Paxton spent 26 years as one of the world's top marketing and advertising executives. She led iconic brands like Harley-Davidson, Visa, McDonald’s, and AOL. But in 2016 she walked into her boss's office and declared she was mentally, emotionally, and physically sick from pursuing the goals and agendas of everyone else. She was "soul-sick." She left the corporate world to become the Chief Soul Officer of her own life and launched Soulbbatical, her movement to liberate the souls of one billion people by showing us that we have a choice in how we live our lives and nurture our souls.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Shelley defines Soulbbatical and the need to stop rebelling against tradition and corporate norms and start rebelling for our own lives, fullment and paths forward.

-Shelley walks us through an exercise to define our Soul Fuels and our Soul Sucks to identify what in our life gives us passion and purpose vs what makes us miserable.

-Fran & Shelley lay out the S-O-U-L Process as the starting point to take action.

-How do we liberate ourselves from the shackles of should and get comfortable cutting out that which makes us unhappy.

-Our why-dentity defines our decision-making process and allows our ego to affect our decision-making.

-Courage and confidence are needed to convert fear into fuel.

Quotes:

-”Soulbbatical is a forever journey of living our truth.”

-”Rebellion…is often unsuccessful because it’s on someone else’s terms.”

-”It’s about what lights you up from the inside out. That’s what ‘successful’ looks like.”

-”Is that someone else’s goal? Is that someone else’s expectation? Is that in alignment with my values?”

-”What is that shackle of should?

-”Every badass accomplishment is a series of tiny steps.”

-“What surprises you. What scares you. What inspires you. What do you want more of or less of. Where are the ‘shoulds’?”

-”I’m doing more things that fuel my soul than suck my soul.“

-”I worked 25 years to get to this point and I feel empty.”

-”What are you pretending not to know?”

-“The strongest leaders in the world know how to ask for help.”

-”Am I moving closer to who I want to become, or further away?”

-“Busyness was a badge of honor for me.”

-“We are not going to be playing big in the arena if we let fear in the driver seat.”

-”Show up as who you want to be every day.”

Shelley’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Start the day with Soul Statements that define my reality.

-Remind myself of my values - freedom, authenticity and courage.

-Check in with myself to understand what I need to do to show up as my best self today.

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#022: Premier Lacrosse League - Chaos Head Coach Andy Towers

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Coaches are teachers, mentors, role-models, friends, and parents to many athletes. For most of us, Coaches impact and influence our lives during our most impressionable years. They drive us to be our best and give it everything. They show us that winning is the product of the team effort. They push us back out there when we fail. No matter what sport we play, or what level we play at, coaches lead.

Andy Towers is the Head Coach of the Chaos Lacrosse Club in the Premier Lacrosse League. He is a member of the United States Lacrosse Connecticut Hall of Fame ,as well as the Brown University Sports Hall of Fame. He is a world champion, multiple time All American, All Ivy and All New England; and the Ivy League Player of the Year. He was the 2019 coach of the year in the PLL's inaugural season.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Andy recounts the start of the Premier Lacrosse League, how he was selected as a coach, and how the PLL is the highest level of competition in lacrosse.

-The characteristics coaches look for in building a team from scratch and the difficulty in selecting and managing the best players in the world.

-Andy shares the lessons of bounceback through his difficult Junior year at Brown where despite his lacrosse All-American status, he failed out of school and was forced to re-apply after demonstrating a change in attitude and behavior.

-Andy defines the ‘the decision to fail’ and explains that success is the product of proactively doing everything you can to succeed.

-The importance of the athlete-coach partnership today and what coaching style works best for today’s teams.

-How to display authenticity and real-ness to build trust, community and ownership among the players, coaches and staff.

Quotes:

-”Our only goal is to win the PLL championship.”

-“You don’t have to be a great player. You have to be a great teammate. You have to be a great competitor. You have to choose focus. You have to choose toughness.”

-“It was the most humiliating experience I have ever had, but the best thing that has ever happened to me, because it created a bounceback opportunity.”

-”What sets you free is knowing you did everything you could proactively.”

-”As coaches, your players and the culture of the program are going to take on the characteristics you consistently show them.”

-“Everything that we do, we are going to have a purpose to it and we are going to be able to verbally defend why we are making these decisions.”

-“There is no other way to be with people, than to be straightforward; and honest; and proactive.”

-“Your success is the team’s success. And the team’s success is your success.”

-“The best players are the ones who appreciate the importance of being zero maintenance as people, players and teammates.”

Coach Towers's Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Get a workout in

-Handle my business administration

-Make sure my family knows I love them

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#021: NFL To RPA – Wide Receiver Austin Collie

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Professional football requires its players to be fast, strong, and smart. It's a sport, but it’s also a $16B business where results are the only thing that matters.

Austin Collie played wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots. He was drafted in the 4th Round of the 2009 draft and is a member of the Brigham Young University Hall of Fame.

Austin joins host Fran Racioppi to discuss how our drive for perfection is based on competition, the identification of our faults, and the need to correct those faults quickly, without compromise and without delay - or risk having our weakness exploited.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Austin and Fran break down the importance of chemistry on a team and how the greatest of all time demonstrate personal accountability and responsibility to their team before themself.

-Austin discusses the series of devastating concussions and injuries that slowly forced the end of his playing career. He explains the difficulty we face in accepting the end, but also how we can embrace new opportunities if we bring the same level of passion, dedication and drive to our new endeavors.

-An NFL wide receiver turned technology start-up executive in Remote Process Automation at JOLT Advantage Group, Austin proves that we are the only ones who can control how hard we work. He is the definition of our core tenets... "hire for character, train for skill."

Quotes:

-”The only way you are going to get better is if you put yourself in an uncomfortable position.”

-”I wasn’t ever afraid to lose because I knew at the end of the day I was going to find out what my weaknesses were.”

-”Practice was where you found the most competition; where your job was on the line.”

-”Competition is what catapults you to figure out who you are.”

-”There is one thing that I could control and that is how hard I worked.”

-”I can’t talk enough about the selflessness that went on being on the Colts.”

-“How can I help the team? How can I make the team better? Not how can the team make me better?”

-“You put in the work, you become the best.”

-“They wanted to be the best. They wanted to win every game they played in. So they prepared like it.”

-“Talent wasn’t given. It was earned. Wins weren’t given. It was earned.”

-”Whatever corrections need to be made are made the same day the mistakes are realized.”

-”What makes elite athletes elite is they have one mind track...one center focus...becoming the best.”

-”Robotic Process Automation is replicating what humans do.”

Austin’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Communicate; especially when I need help.

-Remain humble; don’t be afraid to say you don’t know it all.

-Don’t get outworked; the only thing I can control is the amount of work I put into it.

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#020: Desert Energy – CEO Of Dii Desert Energy Cornelius Matthes

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Over 80% of the world is still powered by fossil fuels like oil, natural gas and coal. The Middle East and North Africa are home to over 90% of proven fossil fuel reserves. There is shelf life on fossil fuels and limited availability means higher prices.

In this episode host Fran Racioppi is joined by Cornelius Matthes, CEO of Dii Desert Energy; the world's leader in the development and enhancement of renewable energy. Fran and Cornelius describe how the world's largest oil producers are becoming the world's largest renewable energy providers, how green hydrogen is changing our lives and an initiative to link the solar and wind power generated in North Africa to Europe through a series of underground power distribution systems.

Cornelius also provided his keys to successful product development, launch, scale and funding.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Renewable energy is a diversification play for economic and political security in the traditional fossil fuel-driven countries of The Middle East & North Africa.

-History of Dii Desert Energy; its place as a consortium of renewable expertise and community, and its history of bold action and development seeking to bring renewable energy to Europe.

-Why 2050 is the critical year for significant energy transformation.

-Cornelius explains the importance of green hydrogen, how industries are harnessing and using it, the economics behind the reductions in cost, and the benefits of the near 100% clean production and use.

-How energy start-ups are rapidly advancing innovation and technology in renewable energy.

-Cornelius shares his leadership lessons from Pawame, where he led a company bringing solar power to the residents of the most remote regions of Kenya while also helping them develop credit and financial security.

Quotes:

-”This decade will be the decade of disruption; positive disruption.”*

-”The game changer of green hydrogen is the affordable price.”

-”Green hydrogen is nothing else than converting water via electrolysis to water and hydrogen.”*

-“The Middle East has a huge opportunity because there is extremely low cost wind energy, extremely low cost solar energy, and abundant space.”*

-”In 1910 you saw one car in the middle of many horses. In 1920 you saw one horse in the middle of many cars.”

-”Over the last five years we have electrified something like 20,000 households.”

-“I’ve learned to be persistent in many things in my life...there is no golden recipe.”

-“This is a wonderful way to focus on what is essential in life; nature, silence, respect, respect of nature, respect of knowing your limits.”

-”The impossible is possible. Everything is possible. You have to aim high. Be ambitious. Believe in your objectives. Just do it.”*

Cornelius’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Communicate effectively

-Extreme persistence in everything you do

-Exercise and sports to clear your mind

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#019: Founder of Win This Fight, Author, Philanthropist & Heiress to Sheraton Hotels - Mitzi Perdue

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Over 40 million people are the victims of Human Trafficking. It's the fastest growing crime in the world, a $150B industry, and disproportionately affects women and children. Mitzi Perdue is the founder of Win This Fight!, a non-profit dedicated to eradicating this vicious crime. She is the heiress of Sheraton Hotel Chain, widow of another family business poultry magnate, Frank Perdue, a businesswoman in her own right, and an author.

Mitzi joins host Fran Racioppi for a candid discussion on how we must all jump in to combat labor and sex trafficking, the keys to running and scaling a successful family business, and in a surprising twist, Mitzi calls out her rival in the battle for hotel chain heiress superiority - Paris Hilton.

Join the fight to raise $100M by visiting winthisfight.org or text ELEVATE to 55312.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran & Mitzi define human trafficking, its unacceptable practices, and it’s impact of victims and the labor market.

-Win This Fight! has pioneered a method of donation through auctioning high-value items their owners just don't really need.

-Mitzi shares the keys to success in Sheraton's rise to the largest hotel chain in the world through a commitment to empowering people and organizations.

-How implementing “The Great Failed Project Award” allows for bottom-up input in organizations while fostering innovation and creativity.

-The lessons of Frank Perdue in investing in the development of employees and a leader’s need to focus on the present in order to fully understand and solve complex issues.

-Mitzi turns the tables and forces Fran to define his thoughts on failure and the importance of encouraging teams to learn through pushing past their limits.

-Embracing an attitude of lifelong learning will allow us to continue to grow, be genuine, human, authentic and personable; something Mitzi learned as she has overcome her fear of public speaking and being in large crowds.

Quotes:

-”If you are a trafficker, you are really trying to ‘break’ the person that you are trafficking.”

-”People live up to or down to your expectations.”

-”If you are focused on what am I going to get out of this, you are probably going to be disappointed.”

-”If I were Paris Hilton and I was reading that Mitzi Perdue - she is the Sheraton heiress - wanted to meet me, I wouldn’t believe it.”

-“To make somebody feel important, listen to them.”

-”I don’t want them to know what I want to hear. I want their ideas.”

-”95%of an award is communicating to the rest of the company what we value and what is important.”

-“People like you a lot more for being human, than they like you for being perfect.”

Mitzi’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-”Eat a live frog” - do the hardest thing you need to do today first

-Make a list of tasks to be completed

-Focus on that which energizes us and provides positive mental energy

This episode is brought to you by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#018: Operator Syndrome - Dr. Chris Frueh

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

What happens when we push ourselves too hard - over too long a period of time? What happens to our mental, physical and emotional states? Even the most elite performers reach a point when they can't go any further. We are not talking about a single event, or a single day. We are talking about years, or decades, of driving to the limit, pushing through, and winning; only to wake up one day with nothing left in the tank.

This is called Operator Syndrome - and it affects the most successful champions in the world, first responders, doctors, lawyers, restaurateurs, and the rest of us driving to make it in the world. Dr. Chris Frueh is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawaii and a leader in the research and clinical evaluation of Operator Syndrome.

He joins host Fran Racioppi on this episode to show us that even as we push ourselves to the limit every day, we must be conscious of the cumulative effect of stress over long periods of time; and how sleep, nutrition and mindfulness are the "survival skills" we need to combat Operator Syndrome and its negative effects on our performance.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Chris and Fran define “Operator Syndrome” and list the “impairments” that are associated with it’s evaluation.

-Evaluation can be as easy as self-evaluation, but also may involve a team of specialists that can assess a person's holistic health across mental, physical and emotional contexts.

-Operator Syndrome affects all types of high performers in a variety of industries such as emergency services, first responders, law enforcement, financial services, lawyers & the military, among others.

-Chris explains how sleep, nutrition and mindfulness are the “survival skills” needed to combat Operator Syndrome, aid recovery and increase a balanced perspective on life.

-Most high performers are unable to identify they suffer from Operator Syndrome, postponing needed medical treatment, or even conversations about the stress they consistently live under.

Quotes:

-”The natural consequences of an extraordinarily high allostatic load; the accumulation of physiological, neural, and neuroendocrine responses resulting from prolonged chronic stress; and physical demands.”

-”What I recommend is a framework that takes the whole person and all of the systems into account as simultaneously as possible.”

-”These things are all connected and causative. We can have vicious cycles and virtuous cycles.”

-”If you are not sleeping, it is really hard to heal your brain. It’s not just about getting enough sleep. It is about getting the right sleep.”

-”We don’t need sugar. We don’t need soda. We don’t need fast food. Junk food. Processed food.”

-”Find the ability to sit, be quiet, and notice what’s going on.”

-”We have some agency. We have some control over our lives.”

-"You are not crazy because you have some of these symptoms, but you can learn to deal with those symptoms with a multi-tiered approach."

This episode is sponsored by Analytix Solutions; improving the efficiency of your business across people, process and technology through multi-divisional outsourcing solutions.

#017: Night Stalkers Don't Quit - Special Operations Warrior Foundation CEO - Major General Clay Hutmacher

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Are leaders born or made? Major General Clay Hutmacher believes that leadership is a learned skill. He spent 41 years in the United States military and commanded the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment; one of the most lethal projections of combat power the world has ever seen.

Precision execution is required every second of every day to assume - and succeed - at the extreme level of risk at which this unit operates.

Major General Hutmacher is now the President and CEO of The Special Operations Warrior Foundation where he has dedicated his post-military career to providing education to the children of our fallen Special Operations warriors and Medal of Honor recipients.

MG Hutmacher joins host Fran Racioppi, and special guest host TWG Founder and Navy SEAL Mike Sarraille, to discuss raising the standards of leadership, the importance of organizations creating expertise across functional, technical and strategic thought domains, realistic training, and the balance between mission and people when the mission calls for relentless dedication.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-How a motto like “Night Stalkers Don’t Quit” unifies an organization around a common purpose and mission.

-Standards are required in any organization, but it is the adherence to the standards that separates the elite from everyone else.

-Lessons on managing elite performers who have a very high operational tempo, a no fail mission and the effects of prolonged operation.

-MG Hutmacher shows us how leaders evaluate risk, and how longevity and experience of an organization’s personnel will allow a leader to assume more risk in their operations.

-Special Operations Warrior Foundation empowers the families and children of our fallen and severely wounded Special Operators and Medal of Honor recipients. Learn how you can support their mission at specialops.org.

-MG Hutmacher provides an invaluable history lesson of combat aviation in special operations throughout the world including Somalia, South America, and The Middle East.

Quotes:

-”You lead by example in your personal and professional life”

-” I learned a lot through that process, about change, being an agent of change. Land mines that are out there that you need to be careful of. But taking the long view on change.”

-”I have learned more hearing things that I wanted to hear the least.”

-”That policing and enforcing of standards isn’t just me at the top, it’s all throughout the depth and breadth of your organization.”

-”At one level it is understandable they are doing this based on fatigue, but it is unacceptable, regardless. “

-”I believe leadership is a learned skill. I don’t buy into the natural leadership thing. And I still learn.”

-I didn’t shy away from making hard decisions and holding people accountable, but I was also very cognizant of the perspective of a young soldier.”

-”There is an argument to be made that when you come into an organization your most productive time is that first three to six months.”

-“If we put you in, you can bank on it, we will come get you. I don’t care what it takes.”

MG Hutmacher’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Pray everyday

-Workout Everyday

-Spend time with family everyday

#016: Delete The Adjective - Lisa Jaster

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Ranger School, and the Ranger ethos have defined military leaders, and leadership in general, for over 70 years. But until 2016, the opportunity to earn a Ranger qualification was limited only to men. In this episode, host Fran Racioppi is joined by Lisa Jaster, one of three women to attend the first integrated Ranger School class.

Most attendees of Ranger School are in their 20's, men and and from the Infantry or Special Forces. Lisa graduated at 37 years old, a mother of two, a woman, and an engineer. She also faced the utmost mental and physical challenges of resilience as she recycled every phase of the course; being forced to do every exercise again.

We highlight the difference between those who say and those who do; the importance of physical preparation; the optionality of quitting; and what it means to truly build an organization on uncompromised standards.

Lisa shares her three C's of leadership, what it means to #deletetheadjective when it comes to women leaders; and how leaders must earn respect every damn day. Ranger School graduates, Fran & Lisa also show us how the Ranger ethos can be applied to any organization. Rangers lead the way!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Explanation of the leadership lessons taught and learned in Ranger School and how they are needed in any organization.

-How living by the six stanzas of the Ranger Creed create world class leaders.

-Fran and Lisa bond over the shared pain and suffering of Ranger School and the differences in their experiences while attending the school.

-Physical fitness is a controllable aspect of our lives in that we ourselves directly determine how fit we are. Being in a higher state of physical fitness allows us to focus our mental capacity on other challenges we face.

-Lisa challenges all organizations and leaders to create one standard and hold everyone accountable to it; there should not be women standards and men standards.

-Fran asks Lisa to describe her 3 - C’s of leadership and how displaying them on a daily basis will set us apart.

Quotes:

-”If women are even in the discussion that we can be capable leaders, then to deny us access to the Army’s most rigorous leadership course would be saying the opposite.”

-”Can I add value without taking away the shine.”

-”I’ve been constantly competing against the status quo, against the norms, against the nay-sayers.”

-”Always be prepared also includes always being willing to do what you need to do to reach your goals, to be a creative thinker, to think outside the box.”

-”We often forget when you have an under-represented population that the over-represented population is also affected by these changes.”

-”You can’t let the quit in...if it's not in your head it's not there.”

-”When you are not winning, you are learning.”

-”A title helps me understand what you do for a living, but it doesn't help me respect you.”

-”Once you lose respect words have no meaning and you have to start rebuilding from the foundation up.”

Lisa’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Write down must dos and want to do’s (having a plan)

-Executing the plan vigorously (conduct the plan)

-Adapt the plan (change the plan when needed)

#015: How To Be Alive - Author Colin Beavan

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Colin Beavan is a man of impact. Or no impact. Author, transformational coach, and instigator of thought and action, Colin lived in New York City for a year with a net zero impact on the environment. He joins host Fran Racioppi on this episode to discuss his mission in life to drive people to take action for what they believe in, even if at first it doesn’t seem important. He shows us that we should become Lifequester’s and drive ourselves towards personal change before we can try to change others.

Colin challenges us to break through the limiting beliefs and the standard life approach that society has defined for us. He also explains the importance of servant leadership, the pressure fame puts on your voice and podium, and how Zen philosophy can help us to understand that we may not be able to change the world, but we can certainly try.

Colin is the author of How to Be Alive: A Guide To The Kind Of Happiness That Helps The World, No Impact Man, and one of the best historical accounts of Operation Jedburgh. Colin has been named one of MSN’s Ten Most Influential men and one of Elle Magazine’s Eco-Illuminators.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The importance of being a “doer” vs a “sayer”

-The difference between an organization’s mission and their vision. Mission is an action. Vision is an idea.

-The four tenets of being a “Lifequester” and their need to take a stand for what they believe in within society.

-How to challenge the “Standard Life Approach” society has defined for us as what we need and want.

-Limiting beliefs are false pretenses that prevent us from taking action. We must break through these.

-The importance of “servant leadership” and “engaged citizenship” to drive change in ourselves and society.

-The loss of “agency” if you put your fate in the hands of others.

-“Ukulele Approach” to learning new skills and driving change.

-Zen philosophy and how Zen can teach us to try.

Quotes:

-"To make change we need to think about taking gentle first steps that aren’t so huge and are more manageable. It’s a training-wheel approach to changing your life. The big things can come later.”

-“Just as I have to accept certain things about the world…the world has to accept certain things about me.”

-“In community when one person floats up we pull others up with us.”

-“I didn’t want to write a book about how all of you people should change. I thought I maybe should write a book about how I can change.”

-"The old concept of leadership conflated leadership with status. Real leadership is based in listening.”

-“The real expertise of a leader is to listen to the concerns of their various stakeholders.”

-“Sometimes the most generous act we can do is accept the fact that we can be publicly wrong.”

-“To make change the first thing you have to do is measure where you are.”

-“People can be more forgiving than you think if you are really sincere about making change.”

-“We can’t insist that we are praised.”

Colin’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Daily meditation to calm anxiety and worry

-Envision the world as loving, kind, safe and equitable to determine how I can help the world get there today

-Talk to my daughter

#014: Seen Better Days - Comedian Selena Coppock

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Stand-up comedy is not just about making people laugh. It is about creating a connection with a group of strangers to evoke an emotional response and influence them; something critical to leaders at every level and in any organization. Comedian and Author Selena Coppock, is the artist behind Seen Better Days, a comedy album that hit #1 on the iTunes Comedy chart.

She is ranked one of the 8 funniest feminists on Twitter and joins host Fran Racioppi to unpack the leadership characteristics required to stand up in front of total strangers and make them like you.

She showed the differences between improv and a team's ability to hide your flaws vs stand-up, where there is no one but yourself to blame for failure. She explained how you pick yourself up off the floor, forget about the times the audience threw tomatoes, and grab the mic for another round.

Selena also highlighted her book, The New Rules for Blondes, where she and Fran challenged stereotypes about women, their place in society, and how we all can learn to shine if we believe in ourselves first.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The characteristics needed to build a career as a comedian when competition is fierce and options are endless.

-Subjective vs objective results in performance.

-The team aspect of Improv comedy and how the team can hide an individual’s flaws.

-Stand-up comedy as an individual’s need to perform in the moment based on detailed preparation and planning.

-New York City as the epicenter of the comedy industry.

-How you present yourself to an audience matters in how they interpret what you are saying.

-How to approach difficult and controversial topics with care, but also in a way that resonates with the audience; off limit topics; what makes a good joke.

-Building an audience and following that resonates with you, your brand and your message.

-Rejection of the negative connotations associated with blonde women.

-Feminism and the need to focus on becoming good people.

-Men’s need to break out of the stereotypical characteristics society has placed on male behavior.

Quotes:

-“I am a firm believer that the universe will open up to you if you are on the right path.”

-“You don’t really take things personally because it’s so subjective.”

-“If you have an audience of 100 people, you can’t somehow not offend someone.”

-“You can’t please everyone, but you can be mindful of your position on things.”

-“It’s not fun or enjoyable to punch down.”

-“I had a bad set Tuesday. Oh well...I have another one Wednesday.”

-“The best jokes are self-effacing.”

-“If you're a blonde, cute woman, people don’t take you seriously.”

-“I am who I am without apologies”

-“Some people are going to like you. Some people are not going to like you. It’s ok to just do your thing.”

-“The goal of feminism is to get rid of these rigid notions of what is man and what is women.”

-“The first step is finding your voice.”

-“The most wonderful feeling in life is feeling understood.”

-“Comedy is earned 10 minutes at a time over decades.”

Selena’s three daily foundations of success:

-Make your bed everyday

-Go outside everyday

-Be upbeat, positive and be aware of what is coming into your life (especially on social media)

#013: Spymaster's Prism - Jack Devine

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 15:16:00 GMT

Hollywood has James Bond, Jason Bourne, Jack Ryan, and Jack Bauer. But the real world has Jack Devine and he has a far more interesting story to tell. The author of Spymaster’s Prism, Jack spent 32 years in the CIA as the Acting Director and Associate Director of the agency’s Global Operations directorate. In those three decades he has led and orchestrated some of the most well known clandestine operations, including providing covert support to the Afghan mujahedeen fighting against the Soviet Union and hunting down drug kingpins like Pablo Escobar. Today he is fighting the next war in the cyber and information domains.

Perhaps no one will ever be more qualified than Jack to talk about strategic thinking and leadership in dynamic environments. In this episode he joins our host, Fran Racioppi, to talk about the history of leadership in an ambiguous world, how to manage a host of various and eccentric personalities, and how the future security of our nation lies in our ability to protect our phones, computers and the information we consume on a daily basis.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights

-How organizations unify around a common mission, purpose and sense of importance around their work

-The characteristics that make the best spies

-History of the OSS, CIA, Jedburghs and the importance of intelligence in business and national security.

-The different lenses leaders look through based on the experiences of their past.

-The dangers of looking too myopically at our jobs, organizations and goals.

-The importance of information in our problem evaluation and problem solving; and how to remove bias from our decision-making process.

-The rise of insider threats to organizations, the risks posed from the loss of sensitive information, and how to develop controls to combat them.

-The history of traitors within the CIA.

-Tips and methods to manage a team of high performers with unique personalities.

-The future threat of cyber and information warfare and how Russian meddling in US political affairs is on the rise.

Quotes

-“It’s not that you can mass produce leadership.”

-“To be an effective person you have to think strategy.”

-“Information is what allows leaders to make informed decisions.”

-“You need to have a culture.”

-“Just give me the facts. I may not like them; but I will deal with them.”

-“If you are going to be a leader, people need to say’ he is the real thing’.”

-“If there is no upside to the risk, don’t take it.”

-“It helps to have a persona.”

-“If you strive for mass popularity you might not be able to make the tough decisions.”

-“There were rules; called the Moscow Rules.”

-“We did not meddle in each other’s internal affairs.”

-“Both parties need to come to a position of strength to have a real conversation.”

Jack’s three daily foundations of success

-Take 10 minutes to think about what you are going to do strategically today

-Have a strong handshake

-Never take a picture with a drink in your hand

#012: Rhyme Antics - Founder & CEO Chantel Calloway

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 10:00:00 GMT

What we do after we find rock bottom is what defines us. Chantel Calloway is the creator and CEO of Rhyme Antics, a fun, engaging and educational game inspired by the roots of hip-hop artistry. Chantel developed the game sitting in jail on New Year’s Eve 2010 after she robbed a bank to provide for her son. Today, Rhyme Antics is the first black-owned game to be sold in big-box retailers, Target and Walmart.

Chantel joins Fran Racioppi as she talks about her fall, her learnings, her path to entrepreneurship and how taking responsibility for your actions and accepting when you’re at rock bottom can inspire you to do more. Chantel also provides her lessons on successful crowd-funding and how iteration is critical to developing a product your audience wants, regardless of what the creator thinks it should be. Dive into an inspiring journey of self-development and be motivated to sing your own path, never letting poor choices define your life or your character.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran and Chantel play a heated round of Rhyme Antics

-Rhyme Antics as a literacy game to build vocabulary and command of word usage

-Rhyme Antics is the first black-owned board game in Walmart and Target

-The literacy crisis in the United States

-Chantel describes her decision to rob a bank to provide for her son

-Bounceback and recovery from hard times

-Make personal development a priority

-The effective use of crowdfunding and how to develop a crowdfunding campaign

-The first steps in developing a concept, pilot products, market research and focus groups

-The need for founders to remain true to their vision but accept feedback in the iteration of their products

Quotes:

-“The hardest work a person has to do is the self development work.”

-“As long as you stay the course and stay committed to your goal, you will achieve it.”

-“When you have no money, you have to be super creative.”

-“I was lost spiritually. Not focused, I forgot my potential, wasn’t living for my purpose...I was just lost and fell upon hard times.”

-“It was the best and worst thing that ever happened to me. Through the dark time and having that fall, I rebuilt myself to the person I am today and that would have never happened without that incident happening.”

-"Will people you don't know support the product - great test of viability - before you waste your time and money - are you market ready?"

-"The thing that separates this product from everything else is that it is fun and educational"

-“I turned down the first licensing deal that I was offered because the company didn’t understand the community that this product talks to."

-"There will never ever be a little girl that’s black, that will say I can’t be a board game developer because you did it. It was your destiny, you were the one that was supposed to do it.”

Chantel’s Daily Three Foundations of Success

-Meditation

-Make your bed

-Set aside undistracted time to focus on work

#011: The Pursuit Of Gold - Olympic Gold Medalist Laura Wilkinson

Thu, 27 May 2021 10:00:00 GMT

“The task ahead of you is never greater than the power behind you.” Olympic Gold Medalist Laura Wilkinson, shares her “#DREAMCHASER” journey to compete in her fourth Olympic Games in 2021. Laura joins host Fran Racioppi to provide her lessons on facing fear, the unknown, the pressure of the moment and the drive to not only win, but also to become better versions of ourselves.

Laura is the first woman in history to win Olympic Gold, World Cup Gold and the World Championships in 10 meter platform diving. Motivated to reach for her dreams after being cut from her high school team, she won the gold medal on a broken foot. Get ready to be inspired by Laura’s story of courage, determination and longevity at the top.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The mentality of an Olympic athlete

-The need for elite performers to focus on the fundamentals

-It is not about being special; it is about doing the basics better than everyone else

-Laura’s high school diving experience and her ‘call to action’ after being cut from the team

-Failure as a needed part of success

-The humility needed to accept failure and the path to improve

-Taking ownership of your performance

-Winning the gold medal at the Sydney Olympics, Laura’s pep talk she gave herself, and how suffering the broken foot was the catalyst to winning the gold

-Dream Chaser mentality and the drive to push towards our dreams

-Her neck surgery and recovery during her return after nine years in retirement

-Laura’s thoughts on fear and moving past it

-Preparing to qualify for Tokyo

-Dealing with the ‘uncontrollables’

-Finding balance in life

-Achieving longevity in sports

-Channeling the pressure of the moment

-Laura’s ‘Pursuit of Gold’ podcast

Quotes:

-"Fate and Determination separate the good from the great"

-“It’s not comfortable. It’s not easy. And it may take time. People don’t want to do that. But that is how you move past fear.”

-“Every time I fail, it gives me the opportunity to learn.”

-“If you are not humble enough to receive corrections, you are never going to accept what you need to do to make a change to become better.”

-“It’s about the pursuit. It’s about the hunt. It is about who you become. If you have these dreams, chase them.”

-“The challenges that we face are what equip us for what’s ahead.”

Laura’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Love your family

-Be active and move your body

-Stay hydrated

#010: Slingshot Leadership - Organizational Psychologist Dr. Alan Echtenkamp

Thu, 20 May 2021 12:00:00 GMT

We live in a world full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity. As leaders we must manage our teams and organizations, but we must first learn to manage ourselves and our responses.

In the first of a “how-to guide” episode, host Fran Racioppi sits down with organizational psychologist Dr. Alan Echtenkamp to understand the elements that build a strong and effective leader in times of challenge and transition. They discuss the four keys to effective communication and how leaders should approach planning with an agile and versatile attitude. They also delve into how leadership must set the conditions for a return to normalcy and how empowering employees will provide them a voice in their future while building trust across the organization.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Fran & Alan define a VUCA environment (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity)

-Leadership in VUCA and during crisis (COVID as an example)

-VUCA requires leadership, character and caring for other people

-VUCA Prime tells us that in times of crisis and confusion, our natural tendency is to become insular and worry only about ourselves

-Discussion on the ways to look outward in crisis leadership

-Alan defines crisis leadership and tell us how to transform fear action into desire for action

-Importance of not downplaying threats and risks to organizations

-Transparency among the ranks is about empowerment, not providing all the dirty details of the company

-NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as examples of effective leadership during the early days of COVID-19

-In crisis times, leaders must act with urgency, communicate with transparency, respond productively to missteps, continuously update

-Strategies to assess when our teams are ready to return to a new normal

-Teams will be empowered to have a voice if they are given a choice, connected to a purpose, and given a bridge

Quotes:

-”A good and authentic leader recognizes the role and responsibility that comes along with being a leader and becomes the best version of themselves in that.”

-“Part of the emotion you are trying to evoke from people depends on the behavior you need from them.”

-“In any communication there is the sender, the receiver and the message.”

-”There are as many definitions of leadership in the world as there are snowflakes.”

-”Leadership is not an equal dynamic.”

-”The challenge for leaders is managing your own emotional experience.”

-“90% of people consider themselves self-aware. The real number is about 15%.”

-”The paradox of senior leadership is that the more senior you are in an organization the less likely people are to give you honest feedback.”

-“Clarity and agility help people move through complexity and ambiguity.”

-”Any organization at best only has the best strategy for right now.”

-”Do I punish failure, or do we reward failure?”

-”What are the metrics for performance that we want.”

-”Part of what we need from leaders...is to recognize what’s changing and what’s not.”

-”People are willing to give more than their share as long as they feel supported and I think loved.”

#009: 977 Days As A Hostage of Somali Pirates - Michael Scott Moore

Thu, 13 May 2021 10:00:00 GMT

“Curiosity killed the cat.” Journalist and novelist Michael Scott Moore, was captured and held hostage for 977 days by Somali pirates during a research trip to Somalia in his effort to write a book about Somali Pirates.

As told in incredible detail in his bestselling book, The Desert and the Sea: 977 Days Captive on the Somali Pirate Coast, Michael recounts his memories of the initial shock of being captured, the harsh conditions, forging bonds and connections with the other hostages, the failed escape attempts, how captivity provided the time and space for much needed personal introspection, and how his perspective on life and its challenges has changed.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Drive: Michael’s “drive” to survive struck even his captors. After two and a half years many would have resigned themselves to failure and hopelessness, but Michael did not. His constant failed attempts to escape his captors showed how willing he was to fight to get his life back.

-Resiliency: To say that the conditions Michael endured were harsh is an understatement. It was literally the definition of adversity. Michael survived the years of captivity through stimulating his mind, constantly believing in rescue by United States Special Operations and looking to ransom negotiations.

-Adaptability: Michael had to structure his time despite the uncertainty of each day by creating small goals one day at a time. After captivity, Michael had to adapt to “normal” society, which he had been detached from for so long that his return actually made his head hurt from thinking about topics he had long forgotten.

-Humility: 977 days was plenty of time for Michael to reflect on his past and humbly accept his mistakes, while making him more vulnerable, aware and conscious of what really matters in life.

-Integrity: Michael found it in his heart to forgive his captors, but he never forgot. He was able to get over his feelings of anger and resentment, but he did not buckle in his own sense of good and bad. A Stockholm syndrome skeptic, Michael remained steadfast in his commitment to hold his captors accountable for their actions.

-Team Ability: Everything is about relationships, even on a pirate ship. Michael saw his situation as captors and captives alike being forced to play on a team that none of them chose to be on. Building relationships with fellow captives, and even his captors, helped Michael endure even the hardest of days.

-Effective Intelligence: Michael’s experience provided a new lens through which to view the world. It changed his perspective on life and gave him a deeper center of gravity. For better or for worse, he is less single-minded and more focused.

-Emotional Strength: Depression, anxiety, and even suicide ideation hounded Michael every day, but Michael coped by stepping aside from those emotions and giving himself room to think, analyze and find solutions to his captivity. Through yoga, meditation and writing.

-Curiosity: It was what put Michael into the chaos, but it was also one thing that kept him going during captivity.

Michael’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Make coffee every morning

-Dedicate a few hours to focus on work - productive, focused work

-Create a list of tasks to complete each day

#008: Tackling The Cannabis Conundrum On Talent Acquisition - Hunter + Esquire

Fri, 07 May 2021 13:50:00 GMT

Building a business is tough. Building a business in the yet-to-be-defined cannabis economy is even tougher. One of the biggest conundrums in the cannabis industry is talent acquisition and culture clash between legacy cannabis purveyors and formalized business structure.

In this episode, Fran Racioppi lights up the challenges and opportunities in this fast-moving industry. He's joined by Bryan and Jessica Passman, Founders of Hunter + Esquire, a leading cannabis executive search and consulting firm, to discuss how cannabis companies recruit, assess, select, and retain top talent. They also highlight the barriers preventing elite talent from entering cannabis, the preconceived notions around the industry, the cultural challenges faced by operators, and the paths to becoming a successful founder in the industry.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The opportunities and risks the cannabis industry offers to potential employees.

-The legalization of cannabis in different states and at the federal level.

-How legalization is affecting the growth of the market and companies in the supply chain.

-Combatting stigmas and perceptions of the cannabis industry; equating cannabis to prohibition.

-The barriers preventing top talent from entering cannabis.

-Structuring a talent management cycle in an industry that has both former drug dealers and wall street executives.

-Overcoming the lack of industry experience in cannabis and how the legacy players are accepting new talent in the market.

-The culture clash between legacy and new cannabis purveyors.

-The business cycle of cannabis and where the major companies lie (existence, survival, early success, rapid growth, maturity, decline/re-launch).

-The role of founders in start-ups and how entrepreneurs accept when it is time to step aside as the leader but still contribute to the vision of the company they created.

-Positive effects of COVID on cannabis and the designation as an “essential service.”

Quotes:

-”Your human capital is your most valuable asset, if not your only appreciating asset.”

-”She is a CEO. Not a She-CEO.”

-”We focus our recruitment process on education.”

-”You need the cannabis OG’s and the suits.”

-”You do not have to be a consumer to be an effective leader in the industry, but you must respect other people’s consumption.”

-”The existence of the illicit market keeps costs down for consumers.”

-”If we want to properly monetize this thing, we need to level-up.”

-”Open your ears and listen. If you have that self-awareness.”

-”Be sure you are clear on what skill gaps you are filling.”

-”There has been a huge push for diversity, women in leadership roles.”

-”There are companies focused on optic hiring. They are choosing to hire a woman for the sake of hiring a woman.”

-”None of our clients want a slate full of the ‘pale male’ candidate.”

-”We have clients who doubled revenue and headcount (through COVID).”

Bryan’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Get up early and get organized

-Communicate candidly and with transparency

-Act - be in motion

Jessica’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Make your bed, wash your face, get dressed

-Get up early and get organized

-Make a list of tasks

#007: Modern Manhood - Cleo Stiller

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:00:00 GMT

For centuries society has clung to the classic archetype of men as protectors, providers, hunters, and gatherers absent of emotion and unable to form meaningful relationships. This perception has impacted the interaction and communication not only between men and women but also between men themselves. In today’s world of rising gender equality, many men have lost the ability to understand what it means to be both a “good man,” and a “good human.”

In this episode, Author & Journalist Cleo Stiller joins Fran Racioppi to discuss her new book, Modern Manhood: Conversations About The Complicated World of Being a Good Man Today, and share her thoughts on the artificially constructed “Man Box” in which too many men are caught. She explains how her work in journalism, culture, and anthropology has explored the less discussed topics of sex, relationships, money, and workplaces. Most importantly, Cleo discusses how the #MeToo Movement can help men become comfortable having uncomfortable conversations through an introspective look at their past behaviors and a willingness to do better in the future.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-The importance of, and how to, get comfortable having uncomfortable conversations about gender equality, race, sex, relationships, money, self-help, health.

-Cleo’s rise through the journalism ranks at Bloomberg. How she pitched and started her show “Sex.Right.Now” on Univision; ultimately being nominated for a Peabody Award for Public Service Journalism.

-Deep dive into the book’s 8 core topics: Dating, Sex, Work, Money, Parenting, Friends, Self/Health/Porn, and Media.

-Fran comes to grips with his past poor behaviors and commits to being better.

-The need for introspection without stigma, blame or judgment to accept that at times in our lives we have not acted appropriately, but we can accept that and move forward.

-Fran and Cleo break down societal notions that men and women must act in certain ways towards each other; a concept that prevents them from building meaningful relationships.

-The danger of “locker-room talk” in male-male relationships.

-The concept of “call up your friend...not call out your friend” for poor behavior.

-Fran forces Cleo to challenge common stereotypes about women in a rapid-fire opinion game.

Quotes:

-”I did not want to miss the opportunity for us to come together and look at our past, future, and not uplevel our behavior.”

-”Even if you are a good, modern man, you are going to mess up.”

-”I always say no stigma, no judgement. I trust the viewer to interpret this. Just tell them what’s going on.”

-”What are the new rules? What can I do?”

-”They certainly care that they don’t get dinged for something they did in their past.”

-”The amount of money they made had such an impact on their feeling of worth as men.”

-”Introspection and communication can change your relationship in meaningful ways.”

-”Am I not allowed to talk about the bodies of the people I have been with?”

-”When your friend says something shitty, what they are trying to do is bond with you.”

-”Everything right now is very awkward and very uncomfortable.”

Cleo’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Journal

-Have coffee

-Exercise

#006: Healing Hands - Dr. Claudius Conrad

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Connecting two unrelated fields can lead to world-changing discoveries. Dr. Claudius Conrad has led both the medical and music industry in combining music and surgery, revolutionizing laparoscopic robotic surgery and the approach surgeons take to building their teams and healing their patients.

Joining Fran Racioppi as the first in-person guest of the podcast, Dr. Conrad explains how the use of music can not only facilitate the healing process in patients, but also improve the performance of surgeons and other healthcare professionals in the operating room itself. Listen in to learn how being a Steinway & Sons music composer and a German Special Forces Sniper have propelled him to lead the world in minimally invasive pancreatic surgery; and vice-versa!

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-An explanation of the connection between music and surgical medicine in terms of skill comparison, precision, zero tolerance for failure and both as a “performance.”

-Dr. Conrad talks about his recruitment into the German Special Forces Sniper unit and his double major in medicine and music.

-Discussion on the mindset and preparation required to become an elite surgeon and an elite pianist; the need to work everyday towards the goals.

-Dr. Conrad details how to create a recording album and speaks about his piano album Healing Hands.

-Fran & Dr. Conrad engage in a detailed discussion on Minimally Invasive Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Robotic Laparoscopic surgery and how Dr. Conrad leads the medical industry in the use of robots in this field.

-Discussion on the Whipple Procedure and the increase of pancreatic cancer diagnosis over the last 30 years.

-Dr. Conrad discusses how he organizes and builds his teams of elite surgeons. What he looks for and how he uses music to form bonds between the team.

-Tips on how to manage a group of top performers in a multi-disciplinary team unified by the medical profession tenets of “do no harm” and “for the best of the patient.”

-Analysis of the generational shift in medicine from the baby boomers to Gen X and now Gen Z; including the rise of AI & Machine Learning.

Quotes:

-”If everybody thinks it’s a bad idea, yet your heart tells you to pursue it, it’s a clear sign that this is a perfect idea, and you should go for it.”

-”I am certainly a master at failure. But I am also a master at getting back up again.”

-”You have to learn how to learn and make it a habit to be uncomfortable.”

-”Being a surgeon helps me become a better pianist, and being a pianist helps me become a better surgeon. Science and art, precision and creativity, discipline and transcendence. In the end, both are about connection.”

-"Surgeons, who have to execute prolonged motor performance, often enjoy so-called ‘activating’ music."

-”Give yourself three goals in life, ideally ones that you are not already excelling in, and make it a point to get better at those. By doing so you will become a better person.”

-”I am looking for people who are better than me in at least one aspect.”

-“Find what motivates each member on your team.”

Dr. Conrad’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Improve your technical skill set

-Maintain a welcoming personality

-Increase knowledge

#005: Twice Social Founder & CEO – Emily Sandberg Gold

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Your personal brand means everything in digital marketing, especially on social media. But, do you know who your audience is? From her years as a top fashion model, Emily Sandberg Gold knows that building a personal brand takes understanding first yourself, then your audience. Emily combines this balance with the need to listen before speaking, an attribute that has led her to success in both her modeling career and as the founder of her digital marketing agency, Twice Social. Emily attributes success to her never-ending drive and her ability to form meaningful relationships.

She joins Fran Racioppi on the podcast to share her whole journey – from the glitz of the runway to the shadows of depression and anxiety – and how she took what she learned from modeling and entrepreneurship to help others build their brands and leverage social media to achieve growth.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Emily explains her transition from a small Minnesota town to the New York City modeling scene and the importance attitude plays in developing confidence in yourself and your abilities.

-When entering any new environment we must first listen to understand what is asked of us. Once we are clear, it is time to render an opinion (if an opinion is even sought).

-Emily describes her definition of work ethic and drive as the reasons behind her rise to the covers of Vogue and Elle, and becoming the face of Fendi, Versace, DKNY, Clinique and Gap.

-All careers have a shelf life, modeling was no different and required Emily to continuously assess the next steps of her career and her relevancy in the modeling industry.

-Emily candidly shares her battle with anxiety and depression, the factors behind it including burnout and constant workload, and how rehab in Los Angeles helped move past these setbacks and get back to modeling.

-After a short stint selling shoes and handbags at Nordstrom, Emily leverages her experience building her own personal brand to start Twice Social, her digital marketing agency.

-Emily explains the opportunities and challenges in starting a social media business, the value proposition of small teams and a boutique experience.

-Defining an audience that resonates with us is the most important aspect of building a brand that requires continuous engagement, community building and partnerships.

Quotes:

-”Don’t walk into a room thinking that you know what’s up.”

-”Listen and pay attention. Do what’s in front of you and educate yourself as much as possible on what it is that you need to learn.”

-”The first relationship you build is with yourself.”

-”I will pay these contractors twice as much as anyone is paying them and charge clients half as much. That is where I can compete. I can compete on people and I can compete on price.”

-”As long as I kept my mouth shut, people would project themselves onto me and they would do the talking for me. I didn't have to sell myself, they sold me to whoever.”

Emily’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Wake up in the morning and make your bed

-Call or text three people every morning to create connections with others

-Ask yourself each day; “do I want to give today, or do I want to get today.”

#004: The Enneagram – Psychologist Drew Newkirk

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 16:51:00 GMT

The characteristics that set high-performers apart fascinate Drew Newkirk, a New York City psychotherapist who uses the Enneagram Theory of personality assessment to help people unlock the secret to achieving their goals. Drew focuses on elite performers’ ability to remain proactive and out front. Rather than being on the defense, he coaches on strategies to push forward while never letting others bring them down.

In this episode, Drew joins host Fran Racioppi to share his transition from client to the therapist and how he helps others find joy, happiness, freedom, and fulfillment through a quest to understand life’s purpose. An avid music lover, Drew uses music as a language to connect with his clients, as well as to inspire himself and others. He shares his new docuseries called “The Songs That Saved Your Life” where he explores music as inspiration to those who find solace in specific songs. He also debuts his new YouTube channel where he blends lessons from music and literature.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Drew describes how he was bullied as a child resulting in insecurity, which he shielded by developing a “fighter” spirit.

-Drew provides his theory of life as a table with four legs, each representing a different passion but each needing to remain in balance with each other to find completeness and fulfillment.

-Fran & Drew break down the Enneagram, it’s nine core personality types, and the primary and secondary wings.

-Fran describes himself as an “8,” while Drew is classified as a “sexual 4” bringing into the conversation the three centers of “instinct, feeling, and thinking.”

-The Enneagram “Instinctual Stack” is used to identify what character traits people display in times of safety and comfort vs times of stress and confusion.

-Fran questions Drew on the drivers behind his passion for music and the rationale behind the development of “Songs That Saved Your Life” in partnership with recording artist Darrell McDaniels from RunDMC.

-Envy is an emotion that Drew describes as his ‘dark passenger’ through which he professes his jealousy for Hugh Jackman.

Quotes:

-”Your ‘why’ is the root system. If the tree doesn’t come out of the root system, it is not authentic. If a company is doing it well, they’re putting the ‘why’ first.”

-”As a man...I resist the idea that I am a scrapper because I think that was about being defensive, feeling insecure, feeling small and weak.”

-”Your ‘why’ is different than the ‘how’ or ‘what’ you do.”

-”It’s not if, it’s when. And I have wrestled with that for six years.”

-”My way of dealing with envy is to get competitive...but envy also drives me.”

-”The idea behind the Enneagram is that you develop both sides of yourself.”

-”Most of life's problems are because man cannot sit in a room by themself.”

-”The purpose is the core, and the ‘what’ is going to follow that purpose if you are doing it right.”

-“You have this opportunity. Who cares what he says? You have to put this into the universe.”

Drew’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Communicate with compassion

-Target your efforts

-Move and take action

#003: The Boston Red Sox Second Baseman and Broadcaster – Jerry Remy

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 17:56:00 GMT

In loving memory of our friend, mentor and member of our Jedburgh Team - Jerry Remy (1952-2021). We will miss you.

In Major League Baseball the glory you see on the field is a very small part of the whole story. As a player, there must exist a dedication to greatness and a commitment to excellence that transcends the field; even at the end of a baseball career. Second Baseman Jerry Remy became a legend in the game and in the broadcasting booth having been inducted into the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame, elected President of Red Sox Nation, and his 32 years as the NESN color analyst for the Red Sox.

In one of his last full length interviews, Jerry shows us how to overcome inexperience and lack of skill by focusing on our core strengths and dedicating ourselves to perfecting the fundamentals. He shares the mentality required to perform in the moment and under extreme pressure, and how we can overcome devastating injury, depression and anxiety. Jerry also explains why the 2004 Red Sox team is the best team in history, how managers have been forced to evolve to coach a younger generation of athletes, and the importance of mentors in our professional and personal lives.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Jerry shares how nearly being released in his first spring training after being drafted in 1971 forced him to realize how much work was required to be competitive at an elite level and how a dedication to preparation is required to improving his personal skills on the field and in the broadcasting booth.

-Analysis of playing in an environment like Boston where winning and perfection is an expectation; how do we as leaders consistently rise to the challenge and not be overcome by the moment.

-As a five-time cancer survivor, Jerry shows us how to take life’s challenges one day at a time and apply focus to small victories that compound to achieve a goal and overcome extreme adversity.

-Hire for character, train for skill is a fundamental aspect of building elite teams; a challenge NESN accepted when it hired Jerry as the color analyst. -Despite a rough start and inexperience, Jerry explains how we apply our previous knowledge to new tasks and demonstrate effective intelligence.

-Depression affects even the most elite performers. Jerry provides his lessons on overcoming depression and anxiety when your life is on camera and in the spotlight every day.

-Based on 50 years of MLB experience, Jerry gives us the inside baseball on the best Red Sox leaders like Jason Varitek and David Ortiz, the best teams, mentors, and the advice he has for the recently retired Dustin Pedroia.

Quotes:

-”I had so far to go. My talent was so far below all these other guys.”

-”If these guys can play there, I can play there. I just have to work harder. I have to do more work. It will all pay off in the end.”

-”You had to have a short memory because you could really dislike a lot of these guys who wrote some bad stuff about you. You win them over by playing better.”

-“I was terrible. I was awful. And I wanted to drop it. But I never quit anything in my life.”

-“They felt like they had nothing to lose and they go on to win this thing.”

Jerry’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Preparation

-A love for the game

-Be yourself and don’t be afraid to be wrong

#002: Jersey Mike’s Founder & CEO – Peter Cancro

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 19:36:00 GMT

Peter Cancro is the Founder and CEO of Jersey Mike's Subs. In 1971 at the age of only 17, Peter raised $125,000 to purchase the single store sandwich shop called Mike's Subs. Today, Jersey Mike's has over 2000 stores across the globe, and is closing in on over $2 billion in annual sales. Entrepreneur Magazine has ranked Jersey Mike's #7 in the 2021 Franchise 500 Ranking.

In this episode, Peter joins host Fran Racioppi to share his recipe for building a franchise empire, and his foundation on a “SubAbove” culture of giving and a commitment to its people - investing over $150 million back into its store owners to update and modernize. Peter was named to the 2021 Power List by Nation's Restaurant News.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Peter explains the importance of equity in a business and a founder’s role in identifying funding sources, partners and those able to provide capital while allowing the founders to pursue their vision.

-Growing a business from a single store to multiple stores, then a franchise requires founders to understand how their people, process and technology must operate at different points in the business cycle.

-The normal franchise model puts the responsibility for adherence to standards on the franchisee; Peter speaks about his selection criteria for successful franchisees, his dedication to their training, and how the reinvestment by Jersey Mike’s corporate office in the modernization of the individual stores has empowered owners to work harder.

-Peter places focus on location when selecting markets and individual stores for inclusion into the growth phase of Jersey Mikes. He explains that simple and replicable designs reduce the time and cost barriers to entry for new franchisees.

-Fran & Peter provide the keys to overcoming business shock as Peter discusses how he pulled Jersey Mike’s out of near bankruptcy twice and how he has responded to COVID-19.

-The development of a strong team culture is the most important aspect of leadership to Peter. He provides his thoughts on leading by example and from the front, pulling others along towards your goals.

-Community is built through engagement like the Annual Day Giving and the Month of Giving during March.

Quotes:

-”Show up every day. Go to work and go after it aggressively. Make great products and great service. Get involved in the community and care. That’s the motto.”

-”Does it make common sense? This is how we go forward.”

-”Don’t walk when you can run.”

-”You enjoy it when you are doing your best. Putting it out there. Trying to serve your community. Trying to serve others in the store.”

-”It was a good long time I was flatlined. ‘91, ‘92, ‘93. We just didn’t grow.”

-“That’s what people love. When they can just be real and genuine. Not some script by the company.”

-”We go after it very aggressively. Get the right people...we work hard. Try and get involved in the community. Make great products and great service.”

-”Cause-related marketing is what the experts will tell you you should be doing.”

Peter’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Be ready

-Be prepared

-Focus on the small details

#001: The Talent War Authors – Mike Sarraille and George Randle

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 11:00:00 GMT

What can business organizations learn from the military when it comes to talent management and leadership development? Those who have been in the trenches, leading people through some of the most difficult and risky missions in the world know that people are everything. Mike Sarraille and George Randle are two of the authors of The Talent War, an incredibly insightful work that examines the parallels between the talent management practices of special operations forces and the most successful organizations in the world.

Aiming to empower small and medium businesses to achieve excellence every day, Mike and George founded the Talent War Group, a cadre of highly-experienced SOF leaders and business executives who understand the critical importance of human capital management. Listen in as they share some of the principles they talked about in their book as they join Fran Racioppi on this first episode of The Jedburgh Podcast.

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Why Special Operations uses nine characteristics of elite performance to recruit, assess, select and train its people and how the nine are required to build elite performers in any organization.

-What it means and why organizations must “hire for character, train for skill.”

-Entrepreneurs exist at all levels of an organization; Mike & George explain how encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit drives productivity and innovation.

-Assessing people’s response after failure is an important indicator of their character and potential for future success; George describes the most common results of failure given by candidates in the interview process.

-Mike provides the tools leaders need to determine and accept risk in order to see risk as opportunities to improve the organization.

-The keys to introspective leadership and self evaluation on a continuous basis.

-Mike candidly describes the importance of a “tribe” and how the strongest people and organizations rely on a strong sense of community, camaraderie and team.

-How the "whole-man" concept requires leaders to evaluate talent on the totality of what they bring to the organization and how they enhance all aspects of the team in addition to their personal skill set or subject-matter expertise.

Quotes:

-”A transformational leader builds genuine relationships with their people. They are willing to pay the rent.”

-”What are we doing? What should we be doing.”

-”What makes Special Operations so special is that they have to be experts in potential-based hiring.”

-”I want everyone to be a disruptive thinker. I want everyone to have a sense of autonomy over their lives and their jobs. Ownership to make decisions at their respective level.”

-“99% of people see risk and it automatically triggers fear.”

-“Everyone has failed at something they tried.”

“Iron sharpens iron.”

Mike’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Develop a growth mindset

-Demonstrate humility

-Maintain your tribe

George’s Three Daily Foundations of Success:

-Persistence in personal growth

-Have faith in self, tribe and your team

-Love and appreciate those around you

Welcome to the Jedburgh Podcast

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 20:49:00 GMT

Organizations will fail without transformative leaders. The Jedburgh Podcast is a conversation with prominent visionaries, drivers of change and those dedicated to winning.

In May 1943 the Allied Forces determined a new type of leader was required to win World War II as an Axis victory seemed certain. These leaders would be assessed using a specific set of character traits, but selected using the “whole-man” concept; a combination of traits needed to simply get things done and win no matter the challenge. Code-named Jedburghs, three-man teams parachuted behind enemy lines onto the shores of occupied France during the nighttime hours before D-Day. Their only directive...Win the war at all costs. With little guidance and scarce resources, 200 specially selected, highly trained, innovative leaders helped turn the tide of the war.

Hosted by former Special Forces Green Beret, Fran Racioppi, each episode is an in-depth discussion with trailblazers who have earned success through a dedication to talent development, preparation, introspection and the drive to get things done. Our conversation will empower listeners to define success and operate at an elite level, regardless of the task at hand. Jedburghs lived by the mantra that how you prepare today, determines success tomorrow.

The Jedburgh Podcast is sponsored by Talent War Group, an executive search firm and talent advisory. We work with your organization to attract, retain, and develop top talent. We’ll drive you to attract, retain, and develop top talent. With services like talent acquisition, leadership development, training, and seminars we work with you to create talent solutions to business problems. To get started, visit www.talentwargroup.com