On Authentic Leadership Podcast

The Colonel and The Coach
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On Authentic Leadership is a podcast where real-world experience meets practical wisdom. Hosted by a USAF Colonel (r) and a championship hockey coach, we explore what it takes to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact across teams, organizations, and communities.

  1. FEB 19

    Breaking Barriers and Building Leaders with guest JoAnne "Jo" Bass

    Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass joins the conversation to share leadership lessons drawn from the highest enlisted position in the United States Air Force. From mentorship and professional development to communication, influence, and navigating social media, this episode explores what it truly means to lead in complex and evolving environments. The discussion covers the importance of flat communication, training and development in the military, empowering the next generation of leaders, and the responsibilities that come with influence. Chief Bass also offers perspective on personal growth, mentorship, and trailblazing as a female leader in one of the world’s most demanding institutions. Learn More About Jo Bass: https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/2314276/joanne-s-bass/ Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership 06:59 Navigating Social Media as a Leader 09:12 The Importance of Flat Communication 15:15 Training and Development in the Military 21:59 The Role of Mentorship in Leadership 28:40 Trailblazing as a Female Leader 31:07 The Importance of Leadership and Influence 32:03 Personal Influences and Lessons Learned 33:02 Navigating the Dark Side of Social Media 37:12 Empowering Women in the Military 42:01 Adapting Education for the Younger Generation 46:04 The Future of Military Leadership 49:31 The Journey Ahead and Personal Growth

    58 min

  2. JAN 20

    Make-A-Wish CEO on Finding Purpose Through Helping Others

    In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Jamie Hathaway to explore a powerful journey from service and conflict to compassion and nonprofit leadership. Jamie shares how his experiences in Vietnam and humanitarian work shaped his values, sense of integrity, and commitment to helping others find hope and purpose. The conversation dives into the heart of Make-A-Wish, highlighting the lasting impact of kindness, community support, and servant leadership. From lessons learned through children and families to insights on leadership, motivation, and love over fear, this episode offers meaningful reflections for anyone striving to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jamie Hathaway and Make-A-Wish 03:42 Jamie’s Journey: From Vietnam to Nonprofit Leadership 06:01 The Impact of War: Unexploded Ordnance and Humanitarian Work 08:40 The Challenges of Nonprofit Work and Integrity 11:09 Transitioning from Clear Path International to Make-A-Wish 13:54 Finding Purpose in Helping Others 15:24 The Power of Kindness and Community Support 17:15 Personal Reflections on Leadership and Integrity 19:44 The Lasting Impact of Make-A-Wish on Families 22:13 Building a Personal Brand in Nonprofit Work 28:08 The Impact of Make-A-Wish on Families and Communities 30:17 The Essence of Make-A-Wish: Love Over Fear 33:42 The Role of Donors in Making Wishes Come True 38:50 Understanding Human Motivations in Leadership 43:13 Servant Leadership: Empowering Others for Success 50:51 Lessons from Life: Wisdom from Children and Community This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/

    55 min

  3. 2025-12-09

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep. 21 Brian Daliege on Leadership in the Fire Service

    Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Brian Daliege, Fire Captain of James City County Fire Department, to explore the realities of modern firefighting, the evolution of leadership in fire services, and the life-changing impact of mentorship in high-stress professions. Brian opens up about his early life, his path into fire service, and the intense world of wildland firefighting. He breaks down how climate change is reshaping fire seasons, why community support matters more than ever, and the critical role volunteer firefighters continue to play. This episode also dives deep into leadership. How to guide teams during crisis, connect with the next generation of firefighters, and build a culture rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability. Whether you're interested in firefighting, public service leadership, emergency response, or the power of mentorship, this conversation delivers valuable insight from a leader who lives it every day. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian Daliege 01:20 Brian's Journey: From Childhood to Firefighting 05:02 Wildland Firefighting: A Different World 09:52 The Impact of Climate Change on Fire Seasons 13:59 Family Life and Community Service 15:43 The Rigorous Path to Becoming a Firefighter 21:06 The Role of Volunteer Firefighters 24:39 Challenges Faced by Volunteer Firefighters 26:32 Understanding Emergency Response 28:41 Management Styles in Fire Services 34:14 Connecting with the New Generation 38:03 Acknowledging Mentorship and Support This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/ Keywords firefighting leadership, fire captain interview, wildland firefighting, fire service mentorship, emergency response, volunteer firefighters, first responder leadership, climate change fire season, leadership podcast, public service leadership

    41 min

  4. 2025-11-25

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep. 20 Rich Schneider on Leadership That Endures

    In this episode, we speak with Dr. Richard W. Schneider, Rear Admiral,(Retired) and President Emeritus of Norwich University. He shares his journey from the U.S. Coast Guard to higher education leadership, along with the lessons he learned about emotional intelligence, values, mentorship, and preparing future leaders. Dr. Schneider reflects on the challenges of guiding an institution through change, building strong teams, and maintaining a culture rooted in service. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Background 02:40 Journey to Norwich University 05:14 Transitioning from Military to Higher Education 07:40 Leadership Lessons from Experience 10:09 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 12:38 Navigating Challenges in Higher Education 15:12 Building Relationships and Mentorship 17:26 Understanding Institutional Values 20:01 Preparing Future Leaders 22:16 The Role of Every Employee in Success 24:34 Conclusion and Reflections on Leadership 25:44 Vision and Resources: The Foundation of Leadership 29:01 Building Relationships: The Importance of Team Dynamics 32:19 Values and Consistency in Leadership 39:02 Navigating Change: Overcoming Resistance in Culture 45:54 Streamlining Operations: The Path to a Unified Campus 47:14 Building Community and Morale 48:38 Cultural Transformation in Education 49:46 Promoting Gender Equality in Sports 50:59 Leadership and Tradition 52:43 The Importance of Hope in Leadership 54:43 Flexibility and Adaptability in Leadership 57:24 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 01:01:47 Gratitude and Acknowledgment of Mentorship This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/

    1h 9m

  5. 2025-11-17

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep. 18 - Tony Bilich on Leadership, Service, and Success

    In this week’s episode of The Colonel and The Coach Podcast, we sit down with Tony Bilich, a three-time Veteran’s Golf Association Champion and Purple Heart recipient, to talk about leadership, resilience, and the mental game that connects military service, golf, and life. Tony shares his story of growing up in Hancock, Michigan, serving in the Purple Heart Division, and carrying the lessons of discipline, mindset, and teamwork from the battlefield to the championship fairways. We also dive into the challenges of transitioning home, the power of relationships, and the importance of finding purpose beyond service. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tony Bilich and His Achievements 01:03 Growing Up in Hancock, Michigan 03:48 Military Journey and Personal Growth 07:45 Transitioning to Business and Leadership 11:24 Experiences in the Purple Heart Division 17:33 Winning the VGA Championships 24:07 Celebrating Success and Camaraderie 26:49 The Struggles of Transitioning Home 32:19 Support Systems: Family and Relationships 37:00 The Beauty of the Upper Peninsula This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/

    44 min

  6. 2025-10-28

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep 17 -Adam Doucette on Finding Positive Stories in Sports

    This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/ In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Adam Doucette—creator, storyteller, and the force behind Default Positive. From the sidelines of college athletics to capturing the heart of the Boston Marathon, Adam shares how positivity can shape teams, athletes, and everyday lives. We explore what it means to lead with optimism, the balance between sacrifice and happiness, and how finding the right story can inspire entire communities. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership and Adam Doucette 02:03 Adam Doucette's Journey and Background 05:02 The Importance of Positivity in Sports 09:35 Starting Default Positive: The Vision Behind It 11:58 Discovering Positivity in Unfamiliar Sports 13:13 Finding and Creating Stories in Sports 16:11 Highlighting Personal Stories: Jaren Duran's Journey 22:14 The Balance of Sacrifice and Happiness in Sports 28:19 Cultural Perspectives on Work-Life Balance 30:05 Connecting with Athletes and Their Stories 30:09 The Spirit of the Boston Marathon 33:49 Running Goals and Community 36:53 The Power of Positivity in Sports 39:54 Advice for Aspiring Creators 46:59 Future Aspirations and Growth 52:16 Closing Thoughts on Positivity

    56 min

  7. 2025-10-14

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep 16 - Adam Pfeifer and Chris Taylor on Leading Vermont Green FC

    This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/ In this episode of The Colonel and The Coach, we sit down with Vermont Green FC Sporting Director Adam Pfeifer and Head Coach Chris Taylor to talk about the challenges and lessons behind their journey to the 2025 USL League 2 Championship. They share how collaboration, trust, and authentic leadership shaped their season, and how working closely with staff, players, and the community helped turn a vision into a championship. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vermont Green Soccer Club 00:49 Journey to Vermont and Club Formation 06:29 Building a Winning Team Culture 12:40 Coaching Philosophy and Player Development 19:27 Vision and Community Engagement 25:09 Cultural Impact of Soccer in Vermont 34:04 The Journey of Coaching at Different Levels 36:20 Building Credibility and Authenticity as a Coach 39:21 The Importance of Team Culture and Player Relationships 41:09 Embracing Adversity The Comeback Mentality 43:50 The Role of Fans and Community in Team Success 51:09 The Emotional Toll of Coaching and Support Systems Keywords Team Culture, Empowered Teams, Inspiring Leaders, Values Driven Leadership, Coaching Legacy

    1h 6m

  8. 2025-09-30

    On Authentic Leadership Podcast | Ep 14 - Rob Dow on Mentorship, Values & Team Building

    This Episode is Sponsored by Cloche Hockey Proud supporters of leadership, teamwork, and giving back. Authentic leadership meets championship culture. Founded by Colonel Matt Smith (USAF, Ret.) and Coach Cam Ellsworth, The Colonel and The Coach bring decades of military command and elite coaching experience to help build authentic leaders who create lasting impact. Our apparel carries that mission forward — representing resilience, authenticity, and team spirit. 20% of all sales are donated to AirPeyton and child cancer research. https://the-colonel-and-the-coach-apparel.itemorder.com/shop/home/ Learn More About Cloche: https://clochehockey.com/ In this episode of On Authentic Leadership, we sit down with Rob Dow, Head Men’s Soccer Coach at the University of Vermont. Rob shares his journey to UVM, the emotional highs and lows of championship games, and the philosophy that drives his coaching and leadership. From building a competitive program to balancing family life, Rob opens up about the values and vision that have shaped his career. Follow The Colonel and The Coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Colonel-and-The-Coach-LLC/61574148098223/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolonelandthecoach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106794699 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0PwaqNdtEijgwMYh3aShzZ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-authentic-leadership-podcast/id1815956469 BlueSky: @colonelandthecoach.bsky.social‬ TikTok: @thecolonelandthecoach thecolonelandthecoach.com leadership@thecolonelandthecoach.com (802) 203-3371 Schedule A Meeting with The Colonel and The Coach https://calendly.com/d/cs26-dq6-f73/meeting-with-tcatc Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authentic Leadership 01:06 Rob Dow's Journey to UVM 04:26 Community and Connection in Sports 09:29 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Championship Games 13:34 Coaching Philosophy and Early Challenges 19:32 Core Values and Mission Statement 22:58 Building a Team Culture 23:10 Building a Competitive Program 26:28 Recruitment Strategies and Player Development 30:29 Balancing Coaching and Family Life 35:25 Leadership and Mentorship in Coaching 39:34 Creating a Lasting Legacy Keywords Team Culture, Empowered Teams, Inspiring Leaders, Values Driven Leadership, Coaching Legacy

    42 min
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About

On Authentic Leadership is a podcast where real-world experience meets practical wisdom. Hosted by a USAF Colonel (r) and a championship hockey coach, we explore what it takes to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact across teams, organizations, and communities.

Information

  • Creator
    The Colonel and The Coach
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Colonel and The Coach
  • Show Website
    On Authentic Leadership Podcast