Passing The Torch with Martin Foster

Martin Foster
  • 4.8 (25)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Passing The Torch is a TORCH LEAP® podcast featuring long-form conversations with leaders, veterans, entrepreneurs, and culture-shapers focused on growth, identity, and transition. --- Welcome to Passing The Torch, a personal development podcast that’s about the journey, not just the destination.This show is a conversation with people who inspire me — thought leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, and others who are constantly evolving and learning about themselves. I’m not pretending to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes this podcast different. As I navigate my own personal growth and discover new tools, insights, and stories that are helping me, I’m bringing you along for the ride.I believe that when it comes to self-improvement, we don’t always need to hear from someone who has already "arrived" at their ideal self. Instead, we can find power in connecting with people who are in the trenches alongside us, figuring things out as they go. Passing The Torch is an opportunity for both of us to learn, grow, and share in real-time.Every episode, I sit down with individuals from all walks of life — from CEOs and best-selling authors to Special Forces Operators, friends, and elite athletes — and we dive deep into the lessons they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Along the way, I’ll be sharing my own experiences and insights from my personal development journey.Whether you’re someone who’s looking for guidance or simply enjoy hearing raw, honest stories of transformation, Passing The Torch offers something for everyone. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about sharing what we’ve learned and helping each other move forward.Join me on this adventure. Let's pass the torch together. --- © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

  1. Ep. 135: The Light Foundation Buckeye Blast

    4d ago

    Ep. 135: The Light Foundation Buckeye Blast

    Send us Fan Mail In 2001, former NFL player and 3x Superbowl Champion, Matt Light, and his wife Susie, established The Light Foundation to help young people develop the skills, values, and mindset they need to create a meaningful and productive future. The mission of The Light Foundation mission is to take young people out of their everyday environments and provide them with unique opportunities that ignite their passion, purpose, and motivation to succeed. - Quick Episode Summary: Buckeye Blast celebrates youth mentorship, outdoor fun, and community leadership together. - 🔥 Torch Takeaways Include: ◼ Insights from Buckeye Blast: athletes, mentors, and veterans unite at the Light Foundation event to inspire youth, leadership, and community impact. ◼ Inspiring stories about the impact of the Light Foundation on young lives and communities ◼ Candid conversations about mentorship, the great outdoors, and the values needed for future generations ◼ Lighthearted debates on who would survive in the wilderness—Buckeyes, Boilermakers, or pro athletes! ◼ Reflections on leadership, service after the military, and building a legacy of purpose - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Appreciating team support and fun 01:05 Matt Light 05:36 The importance of genuine experiences 07:17 Leadership Academy goals and programs 11:54 Susie Light 13:04 The Light foundation's impact on youth 13:59 Event fundraising with incentives 15:40 Troy Eden 20:17 Intense overnight obstacle course 20:59 Struggling with national identity 25:56 Foundation's programs and volunteering info 26:56 Joey Eden 29:50 Tyler Farr 30:18 Visiting military bases abroad 32:40 Nate Ebner 32:53 Matt Light's impact on the community 35:12 Bobby Carpenter 35:30 Bobby Carpenter riding in an F18 fighter jet 38:53 Community role in youth development 41:06 Bronze star recipient introduction 43:46 Ohio State Wrestling Coach Tom Ryan 46:47 Looking forward to next year's event - Light Foundation Resources: Website: https://www.mattlight72.com/  Ways to Give: https://www.mattlight72.com/ways-to-give/  - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torchfoster Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    47 min
  2. Ep. 134: Manny Piñeiro - The Hard Truth About Time, Identity and What Really Matters

    Jun 4

    Ep. 134: Manny Piñeiro - The Hard Truth About Time, Identity and What Really Matters

    Send us Fan Mail Manny Piñeiro is a certified executive coach and professional speaker who is skilled in leadership and character development at all levels of management.  He is also on the USO Board of Governors and the President and Founder of MAKING TIME COUNT, LLC which focuses on making the most of our humanity count every second, through human involvement and meaningful change for C-Suite Executives and their employees.  Manny is an extreme advocate of transitioning military members to seek their highest potential both in and out of uniform, while identifying and anticipating common struggles for veterans coming out of active duty. - Quick Episode Summary: Manny Pineiro discuss leadership, family, values, and making time count. - 🔥 Torch Takeaways Include: ◼ Reflections on transition, legacy, and making time for what matters most ◼ Stories about the power of mentorship, from family roots to Air Force mentors and lifelong friends ◼ Honest takes on loss, resilience, balancing high-impact leadership with personal fulfillment, and advice for those feeling disconnected or in search of new direction ◼ The importance of intentionality, presence, and community—for military members, CEOs, parents, and more. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Reflecting on Altus Air Force Base 12:02 Facing a cancer diagnosis 17:32 Veterans and identity post-service 24:58 Learning from my children 26:10 The impact of a music MUSE 32:44 Missing moments with the kids 38:49 Making time count in life 46:36 Finding personal motivation 49:02 Maria Perez's mental health journey  01:02:58 Reflecting on the impact of connections 01:20:16 Reflecting on personal motivations 01:34:16 The fragrance's bold scent profile 01:37:36 Learning a lesson in gratitude 01:42:08 Appreciating people in our lives 01:46:22 Acknowledging spousal support - Quotes to open episodes: The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time." – Abraham Lincoln "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”  - Aristotle “Life is Love” – Pro Boxer Danny Garcia’s Dad "There are moments in life that call you back to your roots, not to dwell, but to remember, to realign, and to move forward with purpose." - Manny's Resources: Website: https://makingtimecount.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manny-pi%C3%B1eiro-629a1b44/  USO: https://www.uso.org/about/manny-pineiro  - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torchfoster Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    1h 47m
  3. Ep. 133: Weapons of Mass Deception: Adam Jones Unmasks the Pressures Facing Modern Leaders

    May 28

    Ep. 133: Weapons of Mass Deception: Adam Jones Unmasks the Pressures Facing Modern Leaders

    Send us Fan Mail Army Veteran Adam Jones shares his journey from military service to personal transformation, highlighting the importance of identity, mental health, and living with purpose. He discusses the concept of weapons of mass deception, the power of grace, and how to find fulfillment beyond achievement. - Quick Episode Summary: Adam Jones discusses freedom, identity, achievement, and overcoming silent struggles. - 🔥 Torch Takeaways Include: ◼ Leaders aren’t responsible for results—they’re responsible for the people who drive those results. Empower your team, and the outcomes will follow. ◼ Achievement without fulfillment leaves you empty. Seek alignment with your true self, not just the next promotion or trophy. ◼ Hidden struggles often hide behind smiles. Look deeper—learn to recognize when your people need support, not just applause. ◼ True freedom isn’t about your job or circumstances—it’s about your mindset. Learn who you are beneath your roles, and you’ll thrive anywhere. ◼ Growth starts with giving yourself grace. Perfection isn’t the goal. Progress, self-compassion, and presence—these build resilient, high-performing cultures. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Struggling with hidden emotions 04:10 Understanding weapons of mass deception 07:24 Early life influences and lessons 12:42 Discussing personal struggles and growth 14:36 Feeling unfulfilled despite success 17:42 Struggling with time and podcast demands 20:28 Struggling in their relationship 24:09 The importance of giving grace 28:27 Shifting from self-criticism to growth 31:20 Embracing identity beyond career 33:08 The cycle of comparison 37:48 Understanding personal freedom 39:50 Working with military communities 42:52 Building excitement for a mission - Adam's Resources: Website: https://www.kingdomoperatives.com/workshop  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadwithadam/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeadWithAdam  - Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torchfoster Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    43 min
  4. Ep. 132: Vet Tix CSO - The Seats We Leave Empty | Steven Weintraub on Vet Tix, Belonging & Veteran Purpose

    May 21

    Ep. 132: Vet Tix CSO - The Seats We Leave Empty | Steven Weintraub on Vet Tix, Belonging & Veteran Purpose

    Send us Fan Mail Vet Tix Chief Strategy Officer Steven Weintraub. Steve's dedication to service began in 1987 when he enlisted as a Combat Engineer in the Marine Corps Reserves. Following his 1989 graduation from Arizona State University, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and served as a Logistics Officer. His active-duty career took him across the Western Pacific and the Persian Gulf, including a deployment to Somalia for Operation Restore Hope aboard the USS Rushmore Continuing his education, he earned an MBA in 2000. While in the Marine Corps Reserves, Steve answered the call to active-duty multiple times, completing two combat tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. After over three decades of service, culminating in his retirement as a Colonel in 2019, Steve remains deeply committed to the veteran community. Through his involvement with numerous organizations and initiatives in Arizona and nationally, he passionately works to connect transitioning service members and veterans with vital resources. This unwavering dedication was acknowledged with his inclusion in We Are The Mighty's MIGHTY 25 in 2021 and his induction into the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. - Quick Episode Summary: In this episode, host Martin Foster sits down with Steven Weintraub to explore how shared experiences, connection, and community can profoundly impact the lives of veterans and first responders. Through the story behind Vet Tix, Steven discusses the hidden challenges many veterans face after service, the importance of belonging, and why something as simple as attending an event can help restore purpose, identity, and hope. - 🔥 Torch Takeaways Include: ◼ Belonging is essential after service Many veterans struggle not because they lack discipline or skill, but because they lose the sense of tribe and connection they once had in the military. ◼ Small experiences can have a massive impact A concert, game, or family outing may seem simple, but shared experiences can improve mental health, strengthen relationships, and help veterans reconnect with life. ◼ Purpose doesn’t end with the uniform Steven Weintraub shares how service can evolve into new forms of impact through community-building and helping others. ◼ Generosity creates ripple effects Vet Tix demonstrates how one act of giving can positively affect veterans, families, donors, and entire communities. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 – Why Vet Tix exists Steven Weintraub explains how Vet Tix became more than “free tickets” and evolved into a mission centered on belonging, reconnection, and veteran wellbeing. 06:30 – Losing identity after military service Discussion around the difficult transition from military life to civilian life, and how many veterans struggle with the loss of tribe, mission, and purpose.14:20 – The hidden power of shared experiences Steven shares why concerts, sporting events, and family outings can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and positively impact mental health.24:10 – How Vet Tix scaled to millions of veterans Breakdown of how Vet Tix grew into one of the largest veteran-focused nonprofits in the country, distributing tens of millions of tickets nationwide. 34:45 – Why community prevents isolation Conversation about loneliness, reintegration, and why veterans need environments where they still feel seen and connected.44:00 – Service after the uniform Steven reflects on how service does not end after military retirement — it simply changes form through mentorship, leadership, and helping others.- Get In Touch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@torchmartin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torchfoster Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    52 min
  5. Ep. 131: Kate McKinnon - Redefining Company Culture, Conversations on HR, Sports, and Empathy

    May 14

    Ep. 131: Kate McKinnon - Redefining Company Culture, Conversations on HR, Sports, and Empathy

    Send us Fan Mail Kate McKinnon is the former Head of Human Resources at Playfly Sports, a leading sports media and marketing company. There, she led the People function through a fast-paced, high-growth phase - helping the company earn recognition as both a Most Loved Workplace and one of the Best Employers in Sports.  Today, she leads her own consulting practice focused on empowering organizations by prioritizing their most valuable asset: people. Her work centers on: Leadership DevelopmentHR Strategy & Culture BuildingPersonalized Career Coaching- Quick Episode Summary: Kate McKinnon shares Human Resource insights, Philly sports, and kindness stories. - 🔥 Torch Takeaways Include: Kate shares hard-earned lessons on: ◼ Hilarious stories about being mistaken for the other Kate McKinnon ◼ Why exclamation points (and emojis!) matter in emails ◼ The myth that HR is just the “company police” ◼ Lessons from Philly sports, The Office’s Toby, and a memorable story of airline biscotti ◼ Her upcoming book, From Classroom to Career, for anyone navigating big career transitions ◼ Plus: Kate’s advice for young professionals, her take on evolving workplace culture post-pandemic, favorite Maya Angelou & Mr. Rogers quotes, and why we all need to give each other a little more grace. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Experience with Playfly Sports 06:11 Email communication in organizations 08:21 Corporate culture misconceptions 11:16 Communicating career growth expectations 13:49 Post-pandemic workplace challenges 17:13 Flight attendant shares snacks 20:25 Discussing favorite quotes and insights 25:08 First impression of Connor Barwin 27:10 Iconic game and Eagles parade 29:42 Being a passionate Philly sports fan 36:05 Importance of giving grace and Billboard Message Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    41 min
  6. Ep. 130: 25 Lessons after 130 episodes of Passing The Torch Podcast

    May 7

    Ep. 130: 25 Lessons after 130 episodes of Passing The Torch Podcast

    Send us Fan Mail Lessons learned after over eight plus years of podcasting.  Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    26 min
  7. Ep. 129: Andy Riise - What It Really Takes to Win in Life and Leadership

    Apr 30

    Ep. 129: Andy Riise - What It Really Takes to Win in Life and Leadership

    Send us Fan Mail Andy Riise (Reece) is an Army Veteran, West Point graduate, and former Army football fullback with 20+ years leading Soldiers in combat, earning two Bronze Stars.  A pioneer in military mental fitness, he helped launch resilience programs and later coached MLB and NFL teams, including the Chicago Bears.  With advanced training in sport and performance psychology, he now works with leaders across business, healthcare, and athletics.  He’s a bestselling co-author, adjunct professor, and founder of Design to Perform, known for blending behavioral science, leadership experience, and practical tools to help people perform under pressure. - Quick Episode Summary: Andy Riise discusses mental fitness, leadership, resilience, and personal growth. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways Include: Andy shares hard-earned lessons on: ◼ Build on Character, Not Just Results: Your identity and values are the foundation for success, whether in athletics, the military, or any field. Stay anchored to your "why"—it fuels resilience during transitions and tough times. ◼ Work Smart, Not Just Hard: Grit is important, but so is self-awareness. There’s a time for perseverance and a time to pivot—balance ambition with well-being, and don’t be afraid to adjust course when it serves your bigger purpose. ◼ Commit to Service: The measure of a life is in its service to others. Whether you're leading a team, raising a family, or working with special needs students (shout-out to all the educators and military spouses), meaningful impact comes from showing up for people around you. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Common connections 06:59 Figuring out next career steps 18:38 Finding clarity and growth 23:44 Building a culture of excellence 29:18 Understanding mental fitness components 34:03 Discussing Ryan Leaf's NFL career 40:53 Finding balance in perseverance 42:58 Learning from personal setbacks 48:55 Deciding on career sacrifices 54:59 Reflecting on personal growth 01:01:48 Recognizing an inspiring ambassador 01:06:09 Billboard Message and more Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    1h 19m
  8. You Don’t Need More Discipline, You Need Better Connection - George Hayworth - Ep. 128

    Apr 23

    You Don’t Need More Discipline, You Need Better Connection - George Hayworth - Ep. 128

    Send us Fan Mail George Hayworth is the Founder of Elite Sentinel Coaching where he “forges leaders and builds legacies”. He also leverages his expertise in leadership through over a decade of military experience, corporate experience and skills like emotional intelligence and conflict resolution developed through over a decade of therapy and healing. - Quick Episode Summary: George Hayworth explores legacy, leadership, emotional regulation, and personal growth. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways Include: George shares hard-earned lessons on: ◼ Emotional regulation isn’t about suppressing feelings—it’s about facing them and choosing your response. The most respected leaders anchor their teams with calm, not just strength. Growth starts on the inside. ◼ Legacy isn’t trophies or titles. It’s what you build into others—your kids, your friends, your teams. Focus less on reputation, more on what you leave in people’s hearts. That’s impact. ◼ Most of us are running from the past. True growth begins when you own your story—childhood wounds and all—rather than letting it own you. Be the one who breaks the cycle. ◼ Humility is strength. It’s not thinking less of yourself, but seeking wisdom from others and stepping back to listen. Healthy leaders ask for input, not approval, to build something greater than themselves. ◼ Want to improve life? Start each day with gratitude. Even on the toughest days, thankfulness shifts your mindset from defense to offense and prepares you for real, lasting change. - Podcast Chapters: 00:00 Deepening faith and personal peace 05:28 Starting the day with gratitude 11:15 Early adulthood challenges and realizations 20:12 Managing anger and personal growth 23:12 Focusing on emotional regulation 26:44 Getting over self-doubt 35:07 Working through marriage challenges 36:53 Importance of strong family foundations 43:00 Reflecting  51:18 Balancing leadership with family life 57:06 Billboard Message - Closing Thoughts: If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who carries responsibility for others. Because leadership isn’t just what you say, it’s what you carry. Support the show Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin More Amazing Stories: Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure Episode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way  Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel ------------ © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

    1h 4m
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4.8
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Passing The Torch is a TORCH LEAP® podcast featuring long-form conversations with leaders, veterans, entrepreneurs, and culture-shapers focused on growth, identity, and transition. --- Welcome to Passing The Torch, a personal development podcast that’s about the journey, not just the destination.This show is a conversation with people who inspire me — thought leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, and others who are constantly evolving and learning about themselves. I’m not pretending to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes this podcast different. As I navigate my own personal growth and discover new tools, insights, and stories that are helping me, I’m bringing you along for the ride.I believe that when it comes to self-improvement, we don’t always need to hear from someone who has already "arrived" at their ideal self. Instead, we can find power in connecting with people who are in the trenches alongside us, figuring things out as they go. Passing The Torch is an opportunity for both of us to learn, grow, and share in real-time.Every episode, I sit down with individuals from all walks of life — from CEOs and best-selling authors to Special Forces Operators, friends, and elite athletes — and we dive deep into the lessons they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Along the way, I’ll be sharing my own experiences and insights from my personal development journey.Whether you’re someone who’s looking for guidance or simply enjoy hearing raw, honest stories of transformation, Passing The Torch offers something for everyone. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about sharing what we’ve learned and helping each other move forward.Join me on this adventure. Let's pass the torch together. --- © 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.

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