Centurion Lounge Podcast

Centurion Lounge Podcast

Centurion Lounge is the premier U.S. Army Reserve podcast, delivering authentic conversations on military life, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by Captain William Stroud and Staff Sergeant Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe, it shares real experiences with insight, humor, and candor. Grab a coffee and join the discussion!

  1. Jan 20

    Centurion Lounge Episode 15: A Legacy of Service with CSM Kisseeisode 15: A Legacy of Service with CSM Kissee

    In this special episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Command Sergeant Major Kissee as she reflects on an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades of dedicated military service, just ahead of her retirement. From her early life and entry into the Army to shaping policy, mentoring Soldiers, and helping lead the force toward greater inclusion, CSM Kissee shares powerful insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Soldiers. Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction05:31 Leadership Style07:10 Early Life & Background13:42 Early Service & Education18:55 Judge Advocate General Recruitment Experience23:37 Paralegal Warrior Training Course26:44 Growing as a Versatile Enlisted Paralegal31:12 The Most Rewarding Aspects of the Job34:14 The Army’s Path Toward Inclusion38:18 Career Awards & Recognition46:25 Future Policy Considerations50:34 Reflections & Closing Remarks A must-listen episode honoring leadership, service, and a remarkable career. Video by Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe

    56 min

  2. 12/29/2025

    Centurion Lounge Episode 14 w/ Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., SOTO. AT 311TH ESC

    In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge Podcast, we sit down with Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., Staff Operations Training Officer (SOTO) at the 311th ESC, for a powerful conversation on service, leadership, and mindset. With three decades of experience, Mr. Ortiz shares his journey from the Army Reserve to becoming a Department of Defense civilian, offering insight into his day-to-day responsibilities and the lessons learned along the way. He reflects on the lasting influence of his mother’s legacy, the importance of family support, and the core principles that continue to guide his life and service..This episode is a thoughtful discussion on purpose, resilience, and maintaining the right mindset every day..Timestamps:00:00 Introduction05:22 Three Decades of Service18:05 From Army Reserve to DoD Civilian25:43 Day-to-Day Responsibilities35:35 Carrying Forward a Mother’s Legacy43:23 Family Support and Service48:18 Core Principles for Life and Service54:24 Daily Mindset01:01:49 Closing Remarks.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, service, and personal growth.

    1h 7m

  3. 12/03/2025

    🎙️ Centurion Lounge Episode 13 w/ Brig. Gen. Earl C. Sparks IV

    In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Brig. Gen. Sparks, former Commanding General of the 311th ESC, for an open and powerful conversation about leadership, family, service, and the mindset that shapes great Soldiers. From his early motivations to join the Army to the values that guided his command, Brig. Gen. Sparks reflects on character, integrity, and the pursuit of a “Culture of Better.” He shares personal stories about family days, road trips, work-life balance, and the lessons learned over a distinguished career—along with insights on Mojave Falcon 2025 and the future of the force. Timestamps00:00 – Introduction03:20 – The Man Behind the Uniform09:40 – Friday & Sunday Family Days15:39 – The Spark That Led to the Army23:06 – Work-Life Balance31:13 – Military Occupational Specialty35:15 – Family Time & Road Trips40:54 – Mindset, Character & Growth47:49 – Mojave Falcon 202501:04:23 – The Culture of Better01:12:43 – Leading with Law & Integrity01:22:41 – Brig. Gen. Sparks’s Legacy01:25:09 – Closing Remarks & Shoutout Tune in for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptsite)

    1h 29m

  4. 11/25/2025

    🎙️ Centurion Lounge Episode 12 w/ Command Sgt. Maj. Kristy L. Hawkins

    Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge recaps our conversation with Command Sergeant Major Kristy Hawkins of the 311th ESC. She shares her journey from the Marine Corps to the Army Reserve, the lessons that shaped her leadership, and her perspective on serving soldiers at every stage of their careers. This episode offers a rare look into her path, her purpose, and the mindset behind leading one of the most dynamic sustainment formations in the Army Reserve (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction & Background Story07:39 - Leadership Style Evolution11:05 - Advice on Opportunities15:40 - Life-work balance19:31 - Being a new Grandma 21:45 - Resource Management Challenges29:45 - Support Systems and Family Readiness38:08 - Empowering NCOs41:03 - Planning and Resources48:10 - More on leadership52:14 - Contact Info 53:45 - Future Episodes and Guest Plans01:00:15 - Closing Remarks

    1h 2m

  5. 10/07/2025

    Centurion Lounge Episode 11: Total Readiness

    In Episode 11 of the Centurion Lounge, the panel examines readiness across mental, spiritual, medical, and personnel areas. 311th ESC Chaplain Yoon leads the discussion with Col. Zschaschel, Command Surgeon for the 79th TSC; Mr. Garcia, 311th Human Resources Officer; and Mrs. Martinez, Suicide Prevention Manager at the 311th ESC. . They discuss the importance of medical and dental readiness, break the stigma around mental health, and share personal stories that promote help-seeking. The conversation also looks at how leadership, teamwork, and the battle buddy system foster a culture of resilience, while exploring spirituality, purpose, and the inherent value of every Soldier. Finally, the panel emphasizes new suicide prevention training, the power of empathy, and the vital role of personal connections in supporting each other. . (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) . 00:00 - Introduction and Panelist Introductions 07:39 - Readiness & Its Impact on Soldiers 17:23 - Connection and Teamwork 25:23 - Fighting Stigma and Behavioral Health Awareness 35:14 - Closing Remarks & Personal Reflections 45:20 - Commitment to Soldier Well-being

    46 min

  6. 10/07/2025

    Centurion Lounge Episode 10 w/ Col. James G. Osowski

    In this episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Col. James G. Osowski, whose journey goes from enlisting as a Private in the Marine Corps to becoming a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. With decades of experience connecting military service and aerospace engineering, Col. Osowski shares a unique perspective shaped by leadership on the front lines of both fields. Tune in as we explore his story of perseverance, innovation, and the lessons learned from a life dedicated to service and ongoing growth. (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste)

    1h 14m

  7. 09/03/2025

    Centurion Lounge Episode 9 w/ Lt. Col. Shepherd & Cadet Chavez

    Episode 9 of The Centurion Lounge brings you a powerful conversation with Lt. Col. Don Sheppard, Professor of Military Science at UCLA, and Cadet Alex Chavez. Hosted by Capt. Stroud and Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, this episode dives into leadership, service, mentorship, and life in the UCLA ROTC community, providing valuable insights for aspiring officers and anyone interested in ROTC opportunities in the Greater Los Angeles Area. (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction and Guest Backgrounds00:27 - Military Journey and Family Influence02:30 - Path to ROTC and Scholarship Experience06:38 - ROTC Experience and Commissioning10:13 - ROTC Branching and Academic Standards15:44 - Overview of UCLA ROTC Program20:34 - Balancing Training and Fun Activities at UCLA ROTC27:07 - Leadership Philosophy34:35 - Advice for Career Growth and Officer Development38:36 - Rewarding Aspects40:43 - Partnership Between UCLA ROTC and 311th ESC45:09 - Why Choose UCLA ROTC50:23 - UCLA ROTC Community53:42 - LT. Col. Sheppard Family and Personal Life55:46 - Challenges and Rewards of Military Family Life01:01:32 - Acknowledging the Cadre and Civilian Staff 01:03:23 - Legacy and Future Aspirations01:07:09 - Family Support and Background01:08:49 - Closing Remarks and Wrap-up

    1h 11m

  8. 08/12/2025

    🎙️ Centurion Lounge Episode 8 w/ Master Sgt. Felipe Pacheco

    In Episode 8 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Master Sgt. Felipe Pacheco to explore his journey from Colombia to New York and the experiences that shaped his leadership style. Serving as the G4 DMC NCOIC for the 311th ESC from 2021 to 2025, he played a key role in enhancing logistical operations and readiness. Known for his passion for fitness and dedication to mentoring others, Pacheco reflects on the values that define his legacy and the impact he hopes to carry forward as he moves on to his next assignment (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background 02:16 - Early Military Career and Deployments 03:47 - Motivation to Join the Army 06:36 - Fitness Culture and Mentality in the Army 10:09 - Transition from Active Duty to Reserves 11:11 - Family and Relationships 15:24 - Family Dynamics and Soldier Relationships 20:01 - Fitness Journey and Inspirations 22:56 - Fitness Philosophy 26:42 - Personal Fitness Routine and Motivation 31:09 - Leadership and Fitness Training in the Army 32:53 - Challenges and Mindset About Fitness 34:50 - Getting Started with Fitness 37:40 - Structuring Workouts for Different Fitness Levels 45:33 - Running and Physical Training Experiences 47:56 - Swimming and Combat Fitness Challenges 50:13 - Fitness Competitions and Challenges 51:12 - Leadership Style and Communication 53:26 - Family Background and Upbringing 55:47 - Career Choices and Army Life 56:56 - Fitness Goals and Future Aspirations 57:51 - Upcoming Assignment 59:01 - Commitment and Motivation 1:00:04 - Impact of the Army on Life and Legacy 1:01:40 - Self-Perception and Humility 1:08:04 - Contact Information and Closing Remarks

    1h 11m
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About

Centurion Lounge is the premier U.S. Army Reserve podcast, delivering authentic conversations on military life, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by Captain William Stroud and Staff Sergeant Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe, it shares real experiences with insight, humor, and candor. Grab a coffee and join the discussion!

Information

  • Creator
    Centurion Lounge Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Centurion Lounge Podcast
  • Show Website
    Centurion Lounge Podcast