How can military veterans successfully transition their leadership skills and experiences into thriving corporate careers?

In this speaker series conversation, host Zack Knight talks with Gabe Soltero, a former Navy pilot turned program manager for military hiring at Home Depot. Gabe shares his journey from a 25-year military career to the corporate world, offering valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing veterans in transition. The conversation delves into the importance of adapting communication styles, leveraging transferable skills, and the role of support networks in successful career transitions. Gabe also highlights Home Depot's commitment to veteran hiring and retention, shedding light on innovative programs and policies that support military families.

[00:00 - 05:44] From Navy Wings to Corporate Ladders: A Pilot's Journey

• Gabe Soltero's 25-year Navy career and passion for flying
• The compelling recruitment pitch that led him to choose the Navy
• Transition from ROTC to flight training and living the dream

[05:45 - 14:32] Charting the Course: Career Path in Naval Aviation

• The rigid yet diverse career progression in the Navy
• Balancing technical skills with leadership responsibilities
• The importance of people and leadership in military retention

[14:33 - 20:58] Landing in Atlanta: Navigating the Civilian World

• The challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life at 47
• Exploring opportunities in Atlanta's corporate landscape
• Learning to translate military experiences for civilian audiences

[20:59 - 24:35] Home Depot's Veteran-Friendly Initiatives: More Than Just Hiring

• Gabe's journey to finding his place at Home Depot
• The company's impressive veteran hiring statistics and retention strategies
• Home Depot's approach to fostering career growth for veterans

[24:36 - 28:55] Mastering the Art of the Humble Brag: Veteran's Guide to Self-Promotion

• The importance of smiling and approachability in job searches
• Learning to speak in terms of "I" instead of "We"
• Tailoring military experiences to civilian job requirements

[28:56 - 39:46] The Backbone of Service: Family Support in Military Transitions

• The crucial role of spousal and family support during career transitions
• Involving family members in decision-making processes
• Balancing military service with family unity

Key quotes:

"When you transition, you need to start talking about the I. And veterans struggle with that." - Gabe Soltero

"Master the art of the humble brag.” Gabe Soltero

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.

How can a national organization like Tunnel to Towers effectively collaborate with local communities to combat veteran homelessness and provide sustainable support?

Zack Knight sits down with Lynda Cox, the VP for Development and Government Affairs at the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, they discuss the organization's mission to eradicate veteran homelessness and provide comprehensive support through their national case management network. Lynda shares the foundation's humble beginnings, inspired by the heroic actions of firefighter Stephen Siller on 9/11, and how it has grown to help veterans and first responders nationwide. She emphasizes the importance of collaborating with local service providers and understanding the unique needs of each community to address the root causes of homelessness effectively. Throughout the conversation, Zack and Lynda highlight the role of organizations like Tunnel to Towers and Advancing in Line in providing holistic support, from housing to workforce development and entrepreneurship opportunities.

[00:00 - 07:06] Advancing in Line's Mission and Growth

• Update on Advancing in Line's recent initiatives, including the VetOps program for professional development
• Advancing in Line celebrates its one-year anniversary as an official 501(c)(3) organization
• Tunnel to Towers Introduction

[07:07 - 13:26] The Beginnings of Tunnel to Towers

• Tunnel to Towers was founded in memory of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life on 9/11
• The foundation initially focused on supporting widows and orphans created that day
• Tunnel to Towers expanded its mission to help injured veterans and first responders

[13:27 - 20:10] Eradicating Veteran Homelessness: A Bold Mission

• Tunnel to Towers declared its mission to eradicate veteran homelessness
• The foundation has helped over 4,000 veterans and their families come off the streets in the last two years
• Lynda emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and collaborating with local communities

[20:11 - 31:12] The Power of the National Case Management Network

• Tunnel to Towers' national case management network
• The network consists of over a thousand service providers nationwide, addressing veterans' specific needs
• Lynda highlights the importance of not just providing housing, but also addressing the root causes of homelessness

[31:13 - 37:22] Translating Military Experience to Civilian Success

• Veterans often struggle to translate their military experience to the civilian world
• Zack and Lynda discuss the challenges of transitioning from the military to civilian life
• Tunnel to Towers aims to provide holistic support, including workforce development and self-actualization

Key Quotes:

"The very least we can do is make sure that you have dignity and security for the rest of your life." - Lynda Cox

"There's so much opportunity in this room to take action, to take the next step, to advance the line" - Zack Knight

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran professional development. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org/22aday and take action to support our veterans.

How can faith and resilience help transform personal tragedies into opportunities for growth and service to others?

In this Tactical Friday, host Zack Knight welcomes back Lindsey Graham, known as the Patriot Barbie, to discuss overcoming adversity and finding purpose through faith. Lindsey shares her journey of resilience, detailing how she navigated through dark times and rediscovered her identity. The conversation delves into the importance of prayer, understanding life's challenges as part of a greater plan, and using past experiences to serve others. Zack and Lindsey explore themes of trust in God, the value of relationships, and the power of conviction in one's beliefs. They also discuss the importance of aligning with like-minded individuals and using one's talents and experiences for a greater purpose.

[00:00 - 05:44] The Power of Faith in Adversity

• Prayer is crucial when facing tragedy or trauma.
• Trusting in a higher purpose can provide comfort and direction.
• Shifting from asking "why me?" to "show me why" can be transformative.

[05:45 - 09:07] Finding Meaning in Life's Challenges

• Every experience, good or bad, can serve a greater purpose.
• Writing down life experiences can reveal patterns and lessons.
• Personal struggles can become powerful tools for helping others.

[09:08 - 11:16] The Ripple Effect of Our Actions

• Our experiences prepare us for future challenges and opportunities.
• Seemingly negative events can lead to positive outcomes for others.
• Embracing one's story can inspire and help those facing similar struggles.

[11:17 - 12:09] Building Relationships and Standing Firm in Beliefs

• Forming relationships with like-minded individuals is crucial for success.
• Conviction in one's beliefs can be challenging but rewarding.
• Aligning with those who share your values is important in business and life.

[12:10 - 16:05] Serving a Greater Purpose

• Using talents and resources to serve others creates meaningful impact.
• Personal struggles can become the foundation for helping others.
• True fulfillment comes from serving a purpose beyond oneself.

Key Quote:

"Everything in your life has played a purpose.” - Lindsey Graham

Connect with The Patriot Barbie:

Website: https://patriotbarbie.com/

Instagram: @the.patriot.barbie

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LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on

What does it take to stand firm in your convictions when facing overwhelming opposition and personal loss?

In episode 449, host Zack Knight sits down with Lindsey Graham, known as the Patriot Barbie, to discuss her remarkable journey from a successful salon owner to a prominent conservative voice. Lindsey shares her experience of defying COVID-19 lockdowns, facing intense backlash, and ultimately reinventing herself. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and seizing unexpected opportunities in the face of adversity.

[00:00 - 13:35] From Salon Chair to Political Battleground

• Lindsey's background as a non-political person
• How COVID-19 lockdowns threatened her livelihood and years of hard work
• The unexpected political spotlight that came from standing up for her business

[13:36 - 18:59] Defying the Mob: Lindsey's Stand Against Threats and Backlash

• Violent threats and community backlash faced for keeping her salon open
• Organizing protection for her business and others in Salem
• The personal and professional cost of her defiance

[19:00 - 26:14] Losing Everything but Gaining Purpose

• Lindsey's loss of business, home, and identity as a successful entrepreneur
• Finding strength in faith during the darkest moments
• Viewing losses as part of a greater plan for her life

[26:15 - 30:14] Embracing a New Path and Purpose

• How faith helped Lindsey see opportunity in her challenges
• The process of exploring new career paths
• Unexpected political connections opening doors to new opportunities

[30:15 - 33:39] Crafting a Legacy: Authenticity and Bold Voice in Action

• Lindsey's current multiple businesses and public speaking career
• Her aim to leave a legacy of authenticity and using her voice for truth
• Encouraging others to seize opportunities without knowing the end result

Key Quotes:

"You can seize the moment and seize the opportunity without knowing why." - Lindsey Graham

Connect with The Patriot Barbie:

Website: https://patriotbarbie.com/

Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?

LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

How can incorporating voluntary adversity into your life help you build resilience and overcome challenges when real adversity strikes?

In this Tactical Friday, we continue sharing tactics with Kristofor Healy for self-mastery and leadership. Kristofor shares his insights on the importance of embracing adversity, maintaining consistency, and viewing life's challenges as opportunities for growth. He emphasizes the need to create voluntary hardships to build resilience and prepare for the inevitable obstacles that life throws our way. Throughout the conversation, Kristofor shares his 3 most important tactics to encounter adversity and build a strong mindset.

[00:00 - 05:08] Applying Tactical Strategies for Self-Mastery

• The importance of having both a strategy and tactics to achieve goals
• Include voluntary adversity in your life to build resilience
• Maintain good habits, like making your bed, to set yourself up for success

[05:09 - 08:39] The Power of Consistency Over Time

• Consistency is key to achieving success
• Cultivate the value of patience, effort, and perseverance
• Focus on effort rather than success and keep your eyes on the long-term goal

[08:40 - 11:12] Life is Fire: Turning Adversity into Strength

• Why life is suffering and how can deal with it
• Challenges can either burn you down or bring brightness to those around you
• Control your attitude, efforts, actions, and reactions to turn adversity into strength

Key quotes:

"Consistency over time leads to success." - Kristofor Healy

"You have a right to control your attitude, your efforts, your actions, your reactions." - Kristofor Healy

Connect with Kristofor:

Podcast: The Stoic Responder

Website: https://www.kristoforhealey.com/

Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?

LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or join Our BATL Space and become part of the community.

How does Shepherd Center support veteran care, break down barriers, and encourage veterans to seek treatment?

In episode 448, host Zack Knight sits down with Jackie Breitenstein, the head of the SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Jackie shares how Sheperd Center is working with veterans suffering from brain injuries and other hidden wounds of war. She shares the unique challenges veterans face when seeking care and how Shepherd Center and the SHARE program are working to break down those barriers. Jackie also highlights the importance of involving family members in the healing process and the long-term support SHARE provides to ensure veterans can successfully transition back to their communities.

[00:00 - 06:01] From Boxing Ring to Brain Injury Rehab: Jackie's Journey

• Jackie's past as a professional boxer with an 8-2 record and six knockouts
• How her boxing experience led her to work with brain injury patients at Shepherd Center
• Shepherd Center's world-renowned reputation in treating brain and spinal cord injuries

[06:02 - 12:25] SHARE Military Initiative: Comprehensive Care for Veterans

• SHARE program treats post-9/11 veterans and first responders
• Care provided at no out-of-pocket expense, including travel, housing, and specialist teams
• Zack's personal connection to Shepherd Center through his own experiences

[12:26 - 30:52] Breaking Barriers: Reaching to Veterans

• Challenges of marketing to veterans who don't want to be labeled as "damaged goods"
• SHARE's reliance on word-of-mouth referrals and building trust with veterans
• Importance of finding a new mission and purpose for veterans as they heal and transition

[30:53- 39:29] Link Between Brain Injuries and Veteran Suicide

• Statistics reveal the prevalence of brain injuries among veterans and increased suicide risk
• Addressing root causes of veteran suicide, including misdiagnosed and undertreated brain injuries
• Misconceptions surrounding ongoing conflicts and lack of public awareness about veteran challenges

[39:30 - 45:10] Healing Families, Restoring Connections: SHARE's Holistic Approach

• Involving family members in treatment, educating them on supporting their veteran loved one
• Powerful story of a veteran reconnecting with his daughters during treatment
• Importance of respite care for veteran caregivers supporting loved ones for years

Key Quotes:

"If all we do is talk to the veteran and we don't include their circle of support, we're not setting that veteran up or that family up for success." - Jackie Breitenstein

Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?

LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect

How can stoicism and learning from adversity help first responders and law enforcement officers build resilience in their personal and professional lives?

In episode 446, host Zack Knight interviews Kristofor Healey, a former DHS special agent, speaker, author, and podcast host. Kristofor shares his journey from aspiring archaeologist to federal law enforcement officer in the wake of 9/11, and how his experiences on the Southwest border and in investigating large-scale fraud cases shaped his perspective on resilience and stoicism. In this conversation, Kristofor also shares his passion for teaching and mentoring others, as well as his new book, "In Valor: 365 Stoic Meditations for First Responders," which aims to provide a practical guide for law enforcement officers to develop a resilient mindset.

[00:00 - 08:26] The Journey to Law Enforcement

• Introduction to Kristofor Healey
• Kristofor's post-9/11 desire to serve drove his career change
• Worked on complex federal investigations for 15 years
• Southwest border experiences shaped his views on resilience and stoicism

[08:27 - 14:35] Life on the Southwest Border

• Worked during Gulf cartel chaos and civil war
• Investigated corrupt law enforcement officers
• High-stakes work required tactical awareness and skilled targets

[14:36 - 17:32] Balancing Work and Relationships

• Experience in marriages while on duty
• Advice to find points in common with your significant other
• Success requires recognizing strengths, weaknesses, and following when necessary

[17:33 - 22:22] Developing a Stoic Mindset

• Discovered stoic philosophers during challenging times
• Stoicism focuses on controlling attitude, effort, actions, and reactions
• Stoicism helped navigate the transition from law enforcement to entrepreneurship

[22:23 - 27:32] Daily Practices and Balancing Life with a Significant Other

• Law enforcement authority can carry over into personal relationships
• Healthy relationships require recognizing limitations and following the partner's lead
• Checking authoritative communication patterns is an ongoing practice

[27:33 - 30:10] Public Speaking and Sharing Lessons Learned

• Speaks about turning obstacles into opportunities and using adversity as a gift
• Draws on law enforcement and endurance racing stories to encourage resilience
• Believes sharing lessons from global conflict benefits law enforcement and the general population

[30:11 - 33:44] Legacy and Supporting the Next Generation

• Law enforcement faces unique challenges: PTSD, staffing shortages, confidence crisis
• Experienced officers should share stories to help others navigate challenges
• Legacy means helping others climb up, not closing the door behind oneself

Key Quotes:

"What you control is your attitude, your effort, your actions and your reactions. If you can control those things and focus inward on those things, the outcomes take care of themselves." - Kristofor Healey

"You don't turn around and close the door behind you. You put a ladder behind you so that people can climb up behind you." - Kristofor Healey

Connect with Kristofor:

Podcast: The Stoic Responder

Website: https://www.kristoforhealey.com/

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What are the three key mistakes entrepreneurs make when it comes to their wealth, and how can they be avoided?

In episode 445, host Zack Knight interviews Cannon Carr, a wealth management strategist, CEO, and business owner of Corner Cap Wealth Advisors. Carr shares his expertise on building resilient teams, fostering a positive company culture, and the common pitfalls entrepreneurs face when managing their wealth. The conversation dives into the importance of planning for the future, maintaining liquidity, and achieving a healthy work-life balance. Carr also emphasizes the significance of small businesses in driving economic growth and innovation. Throughout the episode, Zack draws parallels between the experiences of veterans transitioning to civilian life and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

[00:00 - 09:57] Starting a Business and the Entrepreneur Journey

• Cannon Carr’s Introduction and early steps in the entrepreneurial world
• How does stability work in entrepreneurship?
• Cannon’s company nowadays

[09:58 - 15:04] Building Resilience in a Team

• Focus on building a team that can make decisions independently
• Hire people based on shared values and culture
• Encourage honest communication and vulnerability within the team

[15:05 - 21:19] Ego and Loyalty in Business and The Military

• Recognize that ego can create unnecessary conflict and distraction
• Understand that loyalty is a double-edged sword; sometimes, you need to let go of team members who have outgrown their roles
• Strive for a balance between personal life and professional obligations

[21:20 - 35:27] The 3 Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make with Their Wealth

• Not planning for an exit strategy
• Lack of liquidity to navigate through disruptions
• Failing to maintain independence from the business

[35:28 - 41:39] The Importance of Giving Back and Building Trust

• Inspire others by giving forward and sharing knowledge
• Acknowledge that success is not achieved alone; be willing to help others
• Foster trust within your team and in your relationships

Key quotes:



"Culture means you set the values about how your company or your business makes decisions." - Cannon Carr

"There's no way I would be where I am now without the help of others, right? So you have to share, and it's a joy to do that." - Cannon Carr

Did you love the value that we are putting out in the show?

LEAVE A REVIEW and tell us what you think about the episode so we can continue putting out great content just for you! Share this episode and help someone who wants to expand their leadership capacity or click here to listen to our previous episodes.

The Tactical Leader is powered by Advancing the Line for Veterans, a 501c3 supporting veteran entrepreneurship. If you or someone you know is passionate about supporting the veteran community, please head over to ATLVets.org and get involved!

If you want to learn how to build a better business, you can connect with me at ZackAKnight.com. You can connect with us on LinkedIn,