The Tactical Leader

Zack A. Knight
The Tactical Leader

Zack started his leadership journey working in the metro-Atlanta area as a police officer and SWAT Operator. After seven years serving his local community, he transitioned to the role of an Infantry Leader in the U.S. Army and continued to serve during a combat deployment to Afghanistan and locally with the Georgia National Guard. In between time away with the military, Zack has been able to build six businesses ranging from a security consulting firm, a domestic violence awareness non-profit, to an international dance competition he and his business partner grew to 140 countries in the first seven months of operation. At the center of his journey, Zack is focused on two things, service and leadership. His podcast, Tactical Leadership, furthers this journey and his service, helping him and his audience learn and grow from leaders across the world.

  1. 2 天前

    Beneath The Service with Heather McCarty

    Episode Recap: ATL Vets Atlanta Speaker Series Featuring Heather McCarty Key Points Heather McCarty, guest speaker from St. Louis, Missouri, is a veteran ally with a decade of experience in the veterans' space.McCarty previously worked at The Mission Continues, where she developed and oversaw programs, and taught at a military school in St. Louis.Her connection to the military comes from family members, including her husband, who is a Marine Corps veteran.Through her experiences, McCarty feels a sense of belonging in the veteran community and is passionate about bringing learning and programs to those who need them. Women Veterans Leadership Program (WVLp) Origin and Evolution:Research at The Mission Continues revealed a disproportionate number of women veterans were drawn to the organization due to feeling welcomed and belonging.This led to the creation of a three-day summit in 2016, followed by yearly summits and the development of a 5-6 month cohort-based program.The program launched in March 2020 and transitioned to a virtual format due to the pandemic.In 2023, The Mission Continues narrowed its focus, leading to the transition of WVLp to Beneath the Service, an organization focused on identity-based leadership.Objectives:Empowerment:  The program empowers women veterans by embracing their identity, boosting confidence, and changing their sense of purpose.Connection:  It provides a network for women veterans to connect and support each other, expanding beyond the cohort.Skill Building:  The program focuses on communication skills, recognizing the nuances that come with being a woman and a woman veteran.Action Planning:  Participants develop a plan to apply their skills and confidence in their communities or workplaces.Target Audience:Women veterans ready to invest in themselves and lead from a place that feels authentic.The program is not for those seeking job placement or still figuring out basic needs.Eligibility is open to women veterans living in the United States.Future Success and Partnerships:Future success includes offering a Virginia Tech certificate to program graduates and expanding alumni opportunities.Partnerships with organizations like ATL Vets provide additional support and resources for women veterans. Q&A Funding and Resources:The program relies on sponsorships, grants, and creative ways to capitalize on the value of the cohort.The goal is to keep the program free for women veterans.Alumni Program:Alumni ambassadors play a vital role in shaping the program and providing support to future cohorts.They contribute to content, lead conversations, and serve as mentors.Ideal Number of Participants:While the ideal scenario is to reach all women veterans, the program focuses on quality and impact.The current cohort is limited to ensure a successful transition under Beneath the Service. Additional Information The application for Cohort 8 is open until January 31st.The program kicks off in May in D.C., transitions to virtual, and culminates in D.C. in September.Beneath the Service offers other leadership development programs and resources.Contact information and website details are provided for further engagement.

    55 分鐘
  2. 1月13日

    Leadership, Transition, and the Power of Storytelling with Scott Mann

    Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with retired Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann, a former Green Beret turned entrepreneur, storyteller, and author of Nobody’s Coming to Save You. Scott shares his journey from a bullied small-town kid to a decorated Special Forces officer and, ultimately, a successful civilian leader. Together, Zack and Scott delve into topics like the challenges of transitioning out of the military, the importance of finding purpose, and how veterans can channel their skills into entrepreneurship. Scott also discusses the creation of Rooftop Leadership and Task Force Pineapple, highlighting their missions to empower individuals and advocate for others. With candor and wisdom, Scott underscores the power of storytelling as a leadership tool and the significance of managing energy—for yourself and those you lead. Key Topics Covered: Scott’s Early Life and Military Aspirations: Meeting a Green Beret at 14 and how that encounter shaped his future.Transitioning Out of Uniform: The personal challenges Scott faced and how he navigated the dark periods.Finding Purpose: The human need for meaning and how Scott discovered new relevance post-service.Rooftop Leadership: Its foundation, mission, and why leadership is about managing energy—yours and others'.Entrepreneurship for Veterans: Why veterans are well-suited for entrepreneurial paths and how Scott created a life by design.Nobody’s Coming to Save You: Scott’s latest book and why storytelling is central to his work.Self-Care and Recovery: Insights on the importance of unplugging, recharging, and maintaining mental health. Memorable Quotes: “Leadership is the management of energy—yours and those around you.”“You spend your whole life serving a purpose bigger than yourself. The challenge is finding that same level of meaning outside the uniform.”“Veterans have an entrepreneurial mindset because we’ve been thrown into situations where we had to adapt and thrive.” Resources Mentioned: Scott Mann’s Website: Rooftop LeadershipScott’s Book: Nobody’s Coming to Save You (Available on Amazon)The Hero’s Journey: Advocacy and storytelling for veterans. Connect with Scott Mann: LinkedIn: Rooftop Leadership Facebook: @ScottMann Instagram: @scottmannauthor Twitter: @RooftopLeader YouTube: Rooftop Leadership https://youtu.be/_szAosvdWdM https://scottmann.com https://rooftopleadership.com http://theheroesjourney.org https://lastoutplay.com https://operationpineappleexpress.com https://linktr.ee/rooftoppodcast Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to...

    33 分鐘
  3. 2024/12/30

    Marketing Yourself and Finding Purpose with David Lee Jensen

    Key Discussion Points: Self-Marketing and Storytelling:Why it Matters: Self-marketing is crucial for career advancement and entrepreneurship, but many veterans struggle with it due to a focus on teamwork and humility during their service.Overcoming the Challenges: Public speaking and self-promotion can be learned and improved with practice.The Power of Storytelling: Effectively communicating your story and accomplishments is key to standing out in the civilian world.Finding Purpose and Passion After the Military:The Transition Challenge: Many veterans struggle to find their purpose and passion after leaving the structured military environment.Discovering Your Strengths: Self-reflection and identifying your skills and interests are crucial for finding fulfilling work.Creating Your Own Future:  Don't be afraid to take risks and pursue your dreams; entrepreneurship can be a viable path for veterans.The Naked Truth About Hiring:Diligence Over Desperation: Take the time to find the right candidate who not only has the skills but also fits the company culture.The Importance of Reference Checks: Don't skip this crucial step in the hiring process; it can reveal valuable information about a candidate's work ethic and personality.Cultural Fit: A candidate's ability to mesh with the company culture is just as important as their skills and experience.Collaboration and Community:The Power of Networking: Building relationships and collaborating with others can open doors to new opportunities and support.Collaboration as Currency: Helping others and building a strong community can lead to mutual success.Bridging the Gap Between Veterans and Civilians:Common Ground: Veterans and civilians share many of the same struggles and aspirations.Breaking Down Stereotypes: It's important to challenge misconceptions about veterans and recognize their diverse skills and experiences.Mutual Support: Both veterans and civilians can benefit from supporting and learning from each other.Resources for Veterans:CreateYourFuture Website: Offers free resources, including a book download on interviewing and a course on hiring.Additional Support: Connect with David Lee Jensen and Zack Knight on social media for ongoing guidance and support. Key Takeaways: Effective self-marketing and storytelling are essential for career success.Finding your purpose and passion after the military requires self-reflection and exploration.Collaboration and community are crucial for personal and professional growth.Veterans and civilians can benefit from mutual support and understanding.There are valuable resources available to help veterans transition to civilian life and achieve their goals. Call to Action: Visit createveterans.com for free resources and support.Connect with David Lee Jensen and Zack Knight on social media.Share this episode with veterans and entrepreneurs who could benefit from the discussion.Support ATL Vets and their mission to empower veterans. Links and Social Media https://www.davidleejensen.com/a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidleejensen/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    50 分鐘
  4. 2024/12/09

    Rediscovering Joy After the Uniform with Garret Biss

    In this episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with Garret Biss, a retired Marine Corps pilot, addiction recovery coach, and motivational speaker. Together, they delve into the challenges veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life and the strategies to find joy, purpose, and fulfillment beyond the uniform. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeGarret’s Journey from Marine to Motivational Leader How his service as a C-130 Hercules pilot shaped his worldview.The personal challenges he faced transitioning out of the military.His life-changing perspective after surviving a near-fatal accident as a child. The Challenge of Transition Why many veterans experience anxiety, depression, and a sense of displacementGarrett’s personal struggles and how he turned to service and charity to heal. The Three Fundamental Needs for Emotional Well-Being Connection: Building relationships with oneself and othersAuthenticity: Living true to your values without fear of judgment.Meaning: Finding purpose in work and personal pursuits. The Power of Storytelling and Vulnerability How sharing experiences can help veterans reclaim their narratives.Zack and Garret’s personal reflections on the cathartic power of storytelling. Actionable Insights for Veterans and Civilians Lean into passions that bring joy and fulfillment.Build strong, supportive communities.Seek out meaning and purpose in all areas of life. Memorable Quotes“Service doesn’t end when we leave the military. In many ways, it’s just beginning.” – Garret Biss“It’s okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to stay silent.” – Garret Biss“Garret’s story shows us how to turn our experiences—good and bad—into opportunities to lead and inspire.” – Zack Knight About The Tactical Leader PodcastThe Tactical Leader Podcast, hosted by Zack Knight, shares transformational stories and actionable insights from leaders who tackle life’s toughest challenges. From veterans to entrepreneurs, each episode is designed to inspire you to lead with purpose, resilience, and authenticity. Subscribe now to The Tactical Leader Podcast and never miss an episode where leadership meets life’s defining moments!

    40 分鐘
  5. 2024/10/31

    The Heart of Entrepreneurship with Tessa Arnold

    Guest: Tessa Arnold, Co-founder of Snapback Energy Episode Summary: In this episode of *The Tactical Leader Podcast*, host Zack Knight dives into an inspiring conversation with Tessa Arnold, the co-founder of Snapback Energy. Tessa shares the journey of creating Snapback Energy as a lasting legacy with her late husband, Army combat veteran Michael Arnold, and how they designed their company to provide veterans with clean, effective energy products. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, finding purpose, and navigating unexpected shifts in life and business. Episode Highlights: - Mindset of Resilience: Tessa explains the importance of keeping a “kid at heart” mindset and how this playful approach to life has helped her remain adaptive and resilient, especially through challenging times. - Career Adaptability: From corporate roles to entrepreneurship, Tessa reveals her journey of pivoting careers and embracing change, and how these experiences prepared her for the unexpected. - Snapback Energy’s Mission: Learn how Tessa and her late husband envisioned Snapback Energy as a purpose-driven business for veterans and active-duty military personnel, focusing on providing a clean, effective, and sustainable energy solution. - Honoring a Legacy: Tessa discusses building Snapback Energy as a tribute to her husband’s legacy and their mutual commitment to creating something lasting for the veteran community. Tune In To Learn: - The challenges and triumphs Tessa faced in growing Snapback Energy. - The mindset shifts necessary for transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. - The impact of building a purpose-driven business and honoring a loved one’s legacy. Whether you’re a veteran, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking inspiration on overcoming life’s hurdles, Tessa’s story is sure to resonate. Don’t miss this episode of *The Tactical Leader Podcast*! Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and follow @TacticalLeaderPodcast for more inspiring stories of leadership and resilience. --- Connect with Tessa Arnold [Website: Snapback Energy](https://snapbackenergy.com) Instagram: [@snapbackenergy](https://instagram.com/snapbackenergy)

    43 分鐘
  6. 2024/10/17

    Unlocking Grit, Capital, and Leadership: Insights from Jeff Barnes

    In a compelling episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with Jeff Barnes, CEO of Angel Investors Network, to delve into the intricacies of leadership, entrepreneurship, and the ever-challenging world of raising capital. Both military veterans, Zack and Jeff weave personal stories of resilience and lessons learned through hardship into the broader themes of navigating life after the military, building businesses, and helping others unlock financial autonomy. Overcoming Early Challenges: A Foundation for Grit Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in adversity. He recalls a tumultuous childhood, where his family fell into homelessness after a failed business partnership. They lived in an old RV, bouncing between California and Colorado, barely scraping by. This early experience, though harrowing, instilled in Jeff an unshakable sense of grit and determination, qualities that would shape his future entrepreneurial success. Rather than becoming risk-averse from these hardships, Jeff embraced the spirit of entrepreneurship. Watching his father toil as a small business owner taught him valuable lessons in hard work, even if scaling the business remained out of reach for his father. “My dad worked in fancy restaurants and mansions in Aspen doing hardwood floors, but he never grew the business,” Jeff reflects, noting that while his father’s work ethic was inspiring, it also showed him what not to do in business. From Military to Entrepreneurial Success Transitioning from military life to the civilian world wasn’t easy for Jeff, a challenge many veterans face. “When you’re in the military, you feel like you’re making an impact. Once you're out, it’s hard to replicate that,” Zack Knight adds. Jeff’s early attempts at finding a foothold after the military included ventures in financial planning, real estate, and corporate leadership. Despite his success in various sectors, Jeff struggled with the rigid structures and authority-driven culture of corporate life. This disdain for authority pushed Jeff and his wife to build a chiropractic and functional medicine practice. With determination and smart marketing strategies, they grew it into a seven-figure business within months. “Within 90 days, we had a full schedule. That’s when I realized I had the tools to succeed on my own,” Jeff shares. The experience taught him not just how to run a business but how to scale it effectively—a critical skill he now helps other entrepreneurs master. Angel Investors Network: Creating a Legacy Through Capital As the CEO of Angel Investors Network, Jeff now helps entrepreneurs raise capital and scale their businesses. His early experiences with financial instability drive his mission to democratize access to capital. “I’ve tried so many things in my life. Now, with Angel Investors Network, I’m helping others find that same freedom,” Jeff explains. Through his organization, he works to build platforms where companies can raise capital and grow, creating what he calls “Torrential Downpour Economics”—the idea that successful companies spawn entire ecosystems of opportunity and job creation. Zack, reflecting on Jeff's work, recalls attending one of his Nashville events, a space where entrepreneurs can connect with potential investors. With future events planned in Las Vegas and Tampa, the goal is to keep expanding the network and help more business owners secure the funding they need to scale. Key Lessons for Entrepreneurs: Grit, Clarity, and Leadership Throughout their conversation, Zack and Jeff emphasize three critical elements for entrepreneurial success: 1. Grit is Essential: Jeff’s rise from homelessness to CEO highlights the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges. 2. Clarity of Vision: Jeff advises entrepreneurs to

    50 分鐘
  7. 2024/09/19

    Behind the Books: A Conversation with Navy SEAL Jack Carr

    On the latest episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, Jack Carr, former Navy SEAL, best-selling author, and host of the Danger Close podcast, shared his incredible journey from military service to becoming a top-tier author in the world of thrillers. Carr’s reflections highlight the value of building upon a foundation established by previous generations of authors while adapting to today’s constantly evolving media landscape. Jack Carr is a former Navy SEAL who served for 20 years, transitioning from military operations to becoming a successful author and podcast host. His military experience, particularly in tactical operations and leadership, deeply informs his writing, lending authenticity to his thrillers. Carr’s time in the Navy SEALs laid the foundation for his post-service career, where he draws on his battlefield experiences to create compelling, action-packed stories. His journey from elite military service to top-tier author showcases his adaptability and commitment to excellence across different fields. Building on the Legacy of Great Authors Carr emphasized how crucial it has been for him to recognize and build upon the literary foundations laid by iconic thriller authors. "I’m not just regurgitating things—I’m building off the foundation that’s been built by all these other authors," he explained. He cited classic stories like *The Most Dangerous Game* and *Rogue Male* as significant inspirations, but it didn’t stop there. Carr outlined a timeline of influences, including legendary figures like Ian Fleming, John le Carré, Robert Ludlum, Tom Clancy, David Morrell, and Nelson DeMille. Carr acknowledges that the works of these authors have allowed him to forge his own path. "These guys gave me this foundation by writing such amazing books, and I build on that," he said, adding that he’s taken lessons from the past and applied them to modern-day storytelling in a way that honors those who came before him. The Importance of Adapting to the Battlefield of Media One of Carr’s unique insights in the podcast was how the modern publishing environment requires authors to adapt to new challenges, much like a battlefield. "You couldn’t have done what I’m doing now back in 1985," he said, reflecting on how digital platforms, podcasts, and social media have revolutionized the way creators can engage with their audience. In Carr’s early career, traditional book tours and limited media appearances were the main avenues for engaging with readers. Today, authors like Carr have an abundance of ways to connect with fans, express gratitude, and contribute value, whether through social media interactions or hosting podcasts. “You might just want to write the book, and that’s wonderful. But for me, I need to build a readership,” Carr shared, explaining his motivation to create content beyond just writing novels. This approach is more than just business—it’s personal. Carr, who has a middle child with severe special needs, shared that the financial responsibility of caring for his family drives his efforts to engage with his audience consistently. "For me, thanking people, being authentic, and adapting to this new environment is just as important as writing the books." From Page to Screen A particularly exciting moment of the conversation came when Carr recounted the story of how his book The Terminal List was adapted into a major television series. As he was writing the book, Carr imagined Chris Pratt playing the lead role, even though Pratt was then known primarily for comedic work on *Parks and Recreation*. After Pratt’s transformation in Zero Dark Thirty, Carr saw him as the perfect actor to embody the main character. It turns out that Carr’s intuition was spot on. Through a fortunate series of connections—thanks to a friend, Jared Shaw—Pratt ended up...

    52 分鐘
  8. 2024/09/13

    Speaker Series Featuring Jodi Burns and SFCT

    In a recent episode of the Tactical Leader Podcast, Zack Knight had an engaging conversation with Jodi Burns, discussing the impact local organizations and veterans’ families have in creating strong communities. One of the key points was how smaller, less known initiatives can drive powerful change, even if their contributions are often underappreciated. This episode highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnerships in supporting veterans and their families. Veterans and Their Families: The Unsung Heroes One of the standout moments of the conversation was Jodi's recognition of the pivotal role families play in the lives of service members, particularly Special Operations Forces. As the wife of a Navy SEAL, she shared her perspective on the struggles families face, often handling the emotional and logistical burdens of long deployments. These families wear many hats and form the backbone of support for service members, yet their contributions are often overlooked.  Jodi and Zack both emphasized the importance of organizations that focus not just on the service members but also on their families. These organizations aim to alleviate the stress that comes with military life by creating supportive communities where families can lean on each other. This effort is crucial in ensuring the well-being of both the service members and those who hold the home front together. Mental Health Support: Breaking the Stigma A significant part of the discussion revolved around mental health and the importance of accessible, confidential support for veterans. Jodi shared her passion for a program called *Beyond the Battlefield*, which offers anonymous therapy sessions to service members dealing with trauma. This approach allows veterans to seek help without the fear of career repercussions, addressing the stigma that often surrounds mental health in the military. Zack and Jodi talked about how mental health resources are essential but can be difficult to navigate within the traditional military structure. The anonymous aspect of this program provides a lifeline for veterans, encouraging them to take that first step toward healing. Tailored Programs for Unique Needs Throughout the conversation, the focus remained on the idea that every veteran's needs are different. Jodi mentioned how their programs are designed with flexibility in mind, giving veterans the chance to choose how they seek support. Whether it's through small group therapy sessions or one-on-one counseling, the goal is to provide options that best suit the individual. The Beyond the Battlefield program’s success lies in its ability to offer not just therapy but a sense of camaraderie. Veterans often find comfort in opening up to those who have walked in their shoes, creating a space where they can feel understood and supported. The Road Ahead rapped up, both Zack and Jodi reflected on the importance of continuing to raise awareness about these issues. The need for mental health resources and family support is ongoing, and organizations like Special Forces Charitable Trust are stepping up to meet the demand. By forging partnerships with local and national organizations, they hope to expand their reach and help even more veterans and their families. This episode of the The Tactical Leader Podcast serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from community. Veterans and their families are not just survivors of war; they are resilient, powerful members of society who deserve recognition and support. If you'd like to learn more about the programs discussed or get involved, check out the Special Forces Charitable Trust and consider supporting initiatives that make a difference in the lives of those who have served.

    44 分鐘
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簡介

Zack started his leadership journey working in the metro-Atlanta area as a police officer and SWAT Operator. After seven years serving his local community, he transitioned to the role of an Infantry Leader in the U.S. Army and continued to serve during a combat deployment to Afghanistan and locally with the Georgia National Guard. In between time away with the military, Zack has been able to build six businesses ranging from a security consulting firm, a domestic violence awareness non-profit, to an international dance competition he and his business partner grew to 140 countries in the first seven months of operation. At the center of his journey, Zack is focused on two things, service and leadership. His podcast, Tactical Leadership, furthers this journey and his service, helping him and his audience learn and grow from leaders across the world.

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