Tales of Leadership

Joshua K. McMillion
  • 5.0 (22)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Tales of Leadership is a veteran-owned podcast built to help you learn, grow, and tell your story—so you can lead with purpose, integrity, and inspired action. If you’re ready to expand your influence, sharpen your character, and become a more Purposeful Accountable Leader (PAL), you’re in the right place. This is your tribe—real conversations, real lessons, and practical tools to become the leader your family, your team, and your future deserve.   

  1. 4d ago ·  Video

    # 126: Joshua McMillion - Defining Failure

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Failure can either harden you or sharpen you, and the difference usually comes down to what you believe failure means. I’m Josh McMillian, an active duty Army officer, and I’m kicking off a new leadership series called Defining Failure to help you stop treating setbacks like a verdict. If you’ve ever wondered, “Could I have avoided this?” or felt crushed by a label someone else put on your work, your career, or your character, this conversation gives you a steadier way to lead through it. We build a foundation using the FAILING acronym and seven myths about what failure is not. I share how my view changed through self-reflection and systems engineering, where iteration and incremental improvement are the point. We talk growth mindset research, why repetition beats retreat, and how setbacks rarely happen in a vacuum. We also dig into the stories and quotes that reshape perspective, from John Maxwell’s Failing Forward to Winston Churchill, plus examples like MacArthur’s comeback and the lesson behind changing your language from “I failed” to “I learned.” Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits  Visit Tale of Leadership  Support the show

    # 126: Joshua McMillion - Defining Failure

  2. Aug 24 ·  Video

    #125: Jason “Buzz” Lewis - Formation-Based Leadership

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Jason “Buzz” Lewis is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, coach, mentor, and leadership practitioner with more than 26 years of experience developing people and leading organizations. Today, he serves through youth sports, faith-based leadership development, and business consulting while co-founding Home Team Standard alongside his wife, Des. His passion is helping strengthen the homes, teams, and relationships that shape future leaders. Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits  Support the show

    #125: Jason “Buzz” Lewis - Formation-Based Leadership

  3. Aug 10

    # 124: Joshua McMillion - Transformational Leadership

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Most teams don’t fail because they lack talent. They fail because leaders chase quick wins, cling to control, and create distance from their people. We’re raising the standard above the bar and getting specific about transformational leadership: the kind that builds trust, grows future leaders, and chooses significance over temporary success.  I walk through 10 concrete traits you can practice right away, starting with leading like a shepherd who guides, guards, and grows without needing the spotlight. From there I dig into operating in the gray, building a real feedback loop when candid input gets scarce, and strengthening resilience so problem solving becomes a shared habit. I also unpack perspective and responsibility, plus HUGS: humility, understanding as empathy, gratitude, and a servant heart that serves without an agenda while still holding a high standard.  Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits  Support the show

    # 124: Joshua McMillion - Transformational Leadership

  4. Jul 26

    #123: Christina Flach - More Than Makeup

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Christina Flach is a makeup artist and the CEO and founder of Pretty Girl Makeup. Her celebrity clientele includes Condeleeza Rice, Hilary Swank, Isiah Washington, Melissa McCarthy, Rita Moreno, Renee Zellweger, Tyler Florence and more. She has worked with high end brands such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton, has been featured in campaigns for Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue , and Bloomingdales, and has been featured in magazines including Vogue, Time, People, and Elle. In addition, Christina also writes articles about the best tips, tricks, and hacks in makeup and is featured as a beauty expert on California Live on NBC.  In addition to her career, she is a devoted single mother of four, philanthropist, actively raising funds and awareness for Sepsis. She also started the Beau Friedman outdoor classroom at the Edna McGuire school in Mill Valley, California, raising money for the Baby Beau and Ken Flach educational funds at the Northern Light School in Oakland California.  Christina uses her platform to promote the importance of feeling beautiful from the inside out. She inspires women to be the best version of themselves and how to overcome life's greatest obstacles.  Connect with Christina Flach:  -Website: https://www.prettygirlmakeup.com  -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Christinaflachmakeup/  Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits  Support the show

    #123: Christina Flach - More Than Makeup

  5. Jul 12

    # 122: Joshua McMillion - Do Good Work

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion challenges listeners to stop waiting for the "right time" and start doing the work they were created to do. If you've ever felt busy but unfulfilled, capable yet stuck, this conversation will help you find the clarity to move forward with purpose. Joshua introduces a practical leadership framework built on passion, purpose, and precision—showing how each one plays a critical role in becoming the leader you're meant to be. Drawing from his own experiences, he shares how journaling, reflection, and intentional action shaped both his personal mission and the vision behind Tales of Leadership. The episode also explores how identifying your unique strengths can help you make a greater impact in the lives of others, while offering a military-minded perspective on overcoming obstacles that block, redirect, or challenge your path. Joshua leaves listeners with practical reflection questions and actionable steps to lead with greater clarity, conviction, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that meaningful leadership doesn't begin with a promotion or permission—it begins the moment you choose to do good work where you are. Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support the show

    # 122: Joshua McMillion - Do Good Work

  6. Jun 14

    #121: Jason Sharp - What if Suffering is Your Path to Growth

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Jason Lee Sharp (born November 23, 1986) is a Chicago native, businessman, author, and soldier. He is the founder and CEO of Sharp Leader and Sherris Lounge, an infantry company commander in the Kansas Army National Guard, and the author of Eyes Wide Open: Learning to Suffer. Sharp also serves as a principal program manager at Leonardo DRS and is a member of the board of trustees at St. John’s Northwestern Academies. With a diverse background in leadership, business, and military service, he has focused his career development, growth, and mentorship. Sharp’s journey began in Chicago, where he survived a challenging childhood marked by drugs, homelessness, and the streets. After graduating from St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, he pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, earning a bachelor’s degree in social welfare. Sharp went on to complete an executive MBA at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. His career spans multiple roles, including positions at Honeywell Aerospace and St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy, before he founded his consulting firm. He joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 2018 and later became an infantry company commander. In addition to his business and military leadership roles, Sharp launched the non-profit gritKC in 2023 to support youth in Kansas City. Connect with Jason Sharp: -Website: https://www.learntosuffer.com/  -Books: https://www.learntosuffer.com/books  Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support the show

    #121: Jason Sharp - What if Suffering is Your Path to Growth

  7. May 31

    # 120: Joshua McMillion - Be All In

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 In this solo episode of Tales of Leadership, Joshua McMillion breaks down what it truly means to be “all in” as a leader, husband, parent, teammate, and human being. Leadership is not built in comfort. It’s forged through adversity, discipline, accountability, and the willingness to move forward even when life feels heavy. Joshua shares the mindset and routines that have helped him navigate pressure, uncertainty, failure, and toxic leadership environments while staying committed to a mission bigger than himself. This episode challenges listeners to stop waiting for the perfect moment and start taking purposeful action right now. The episode dives into building an unreasonable mission, developing steadfast resolve through daily habits, surrounding yourself with unbreakable relationships, and cultivating resilience through deliberate discomfort. Joshua also discusses the real cost of toxic leadership and why developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders matters more than ever. This episode is a reminder that the world does not need perfect leaders — it needs leaders who are present, committed, and willing to step fully into the arena. Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours. Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Visit Tale of Leadership  Support the show

    # 120: Joshua McMillion - Be All In

  8. May 24 ·  Video

    Trailor - Tales of Leadership

    We Want To Hear From You 🫡 Tales of Leadership is a leadership platform dedicated to developing Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs) through real stories, shared experiences, and practical insight. Each episode breaks down the decisions, failures, and defining moments that shape leaders in the arena—offering honest, experience-driven lessons you can apply immediately. It’s built for those who want to grow with intention, elevate how they lead, and make a lasting impact—because leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, and the greatest leaders live by one principle: deeds, not words.  👉🏽 Leadership Armory: https://www.talesofleaderships.com/ 🏔️ Looking for an incredible bourbon or spirit? 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits is a craft distillery that keeps the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division alive—bold, smooth, and built with purpose. 🎖️ Get 10% off with code: pandocommando 👉🏽 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits: https://10thwhiskey.com Every day is a gift. Don’t waste yours.  — Joshua K. McMillion ✅ SHARE & SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST ✅ LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW ✅ APPLY ONE LESSON FROM THIS EPISODE THIS WEEK Support the show

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Trailer

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Tales of Leadership is a veteran-owned podcast built to help you learn, grow, and tell your story—so you can lead with purpose, integrity, and inspired action. If you’re ready to expand your influence, sharpen your character, and become a more Purposeful Accountable Leader (PAL), you’re in the right place. This is your tribe—real conversations, real lessons, and practical tools to become the leader your family, your team, and your future deserve.   

Information

  • Creator
    Joshua K. McMillion
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    126
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Tales of Leadership
  • Show Website
    Tales of Leadership