Passing The Torch with Martin Foster

Martin Foster

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. 125: From Service to Civic Engagement - Jason Galui on Leadership and Overcoming Fictional Fear

    2D AGO

    Ep. 125: From Service to Civic Engagement - Jason Galui on Leadership and Overcoming Fictional Fear

    Send us Fan Mail Jason J. Galui is the former Director for Veterans and Military Families at the George W. Bush Institute and the Director, Center for Civic Participation, Endicott College.  Throughout a unique military career, Galui led soldiers in combat, taught economics to West Point cadets, advised senior military leaders in the Pentagon, and served in both the Obama and Trump White Houses. As Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Security Council and Chief of Staff to the National Security Advisor, Galui served as a key point of national security continuity during the 2017 Presidential Transition.    - Quick Episode Summary: Leadership, transition, overcoming fear, civic duty, and making service matter. - SEO Description: Army veteran Jason Galui discusses leadership, service, and civic duty on Passing The Torch, sharing insights from his military and public service career. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways Include: Why family, consistency, and community are the foundation of a good life and great leadershipReflections on working with four U.S. presidents and lessons learned from General Martin DempseyThe dangers of "fictional fear" (and how to overcome it by engaging your community)The social contract America has with its veterans — and what we owe those who serveWhy hope is stronger than fear in times of uncertaintyThe importance of principle-based decision making under pressure- Chapters: 00:00 Talking before the podcast starts 05:14 Importance of strong core values 07:38 Introducing Jason Galui's military career 10:03 Life feels great right now 13:14 Talking about fictional fear 17:33 Harnessing fear and managing emotions 21:24 Guesting the Strategist podcast 28:04 What Lincoln might say today 36:13 What makes a true leader 39:34 Consistency in leadership 41:25 Discussing obligations to U.S. veterans 45:33 Adams and Jefferson's reconciliation 48:08 Overcoming fear and engaging others 51:54 Reflecting on military service 54:28 General Dempsey's "Make It Matter" story 58:22 Hosting live podcast events - Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com 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.

    1 hr
  2. 4D AGO

    BONUS Throwback Episode - General John P. Jumper, Retired, USAF, from January 2018

    Send us Fan Mail ****DISCLAIMER**** The views and comments made by host and guest do not represent the views nor are they in association with the United States military.  **** NOTE: This episode was recorded on another podcast by same host. The new Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/passingthetorchwithmartinfoster/ Retired Air Force Chief of Staff, General John P. Jumper, provides thoughts on mentorship and leadership. Mr. Jumper served in the military for 39 years and gained plenty of knowledge along the way. Like a true mentor, he shares that knowledge to carry on the Air Force Legacy. For more information, please see his bio:  http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/Biographies/Display/Article/104697/general-john-p-jumper/ Topics include: - Advancement of technology - Leaders leveraging social media to their advantage - Working twice as hard today to develop leadership skills - SNCOs having face-to-face contact - What his leadership approach would be in current Air Force - People confusing mentorship with sponsorship 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.

    22 min
  3. Ep. 124: Super Frenchie Matthias Giraud on Mastering Fear, Extreme Skiing & Life Lessons

    MAR 26

    Ep. 124: Super Frenchie Matthias Giraud on Mastering Fear, Extreme Skiing & Life Lessons

    Send us Fan Mail Matthias Giraud is a Professional Skier and Base Jumper, 2 X World Record Holder, and the man known as Super Frenchie.  - Quick Episode Summary: Matthias Giraud discusses fear, passion, and mastering extreme mountain sports. - SEO Description: Explore extreme sports, fear, passion, and mindset with Matthias Giraud, pro skier and BASE jumper, on Passing the Torch. Insightful, inspiring conversation. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: The Power of Intentional LivingFear as Your SuperpowerEmotional Regulation & MasteryLessons from the AlpsBoring Habits Matter- Chapters: 00:00 Super Frenchie: Extreme Fulfillment 06:09 Chamonix: Birthplace of Adventure 07:36 My Son Respects My Work 13:08 Rules Shape Life and Society 14:18 Outsider Turned Pro Skier 16:55 Skiing Passion and Perseverance 21:26 Fear as a Catalyst 29:34 Passion for Craft 32:18 Regimented Life and Goals 36:03 A Life-Changing Mentor 38:28 Dare to Maximize Life 41:59 Philosophy and Impactful Quotes 44:36 Alpine Ski Base Jump Series - Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com 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.

    50 min
  4. BONUS Throwback Episode - Heath Trepanier Interview from January 2019

    MAR 24

    BONUS Throwback Episode - Heath Trepanier Interview from January 2019

    Send us Fan Mail Heath Trepanier- Resilience is making mistakes and coming back from them In January of 2017, US Air Force Technical Sergeant Heath Trepanier (“Trep”) was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer when a cantaloupe-sized tumor was found in his abdomen. He continues to exceed the doctors’ expectations and was recently able to travel to Hawaii for an Air Force Wounded Warrior event. Trep has a very realistic, but optimistic outlook on his life.  His illness has provided him with a new perspective of life and taught him to be resilient. Rather than taking things for granted, he is now more intentional about leaning into his family, friends, and faith for the support he needs as he approaches each new challenge with the intention to learn from it and make the best of what is presented to him. Recognizing that everyone has their own struggles, he encourages everyone listening to be the best they can be, lead by example, and follow through on the goals they set. Trep emphasizes the importance of being involved in a community and having friends to hold you accountable and encourage you to carry on. Show Notes: Trep discusses overcoming challenges and what resilience means to him (3:33)Important skills that will help you face hardship (6:01)How the Air Force Wounded Warrior project has helped Trep (8:30)The benefits of lessons from his childhood in developing mental toughness (10:28)Trep’s words of encouragement to a teammate after their basketball game (13:00)What perseverance looks like when lived out (14:54)Other wounds that veterans deal with but society doesn’t understand (16:00)How Trep has turned trial into triumph (17:43)What Trep’s billboard would say (22:09)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.

    25 min
  5. Ep. 123: Becoming the Lighthouse: Mary Howe on Service, Legacy, and Choosing Your Own Path

    MAR 18

    Ep. 123: Becoming the Lighthouse: Mary Howe on Service, Legacy, and Choosing Your Own Path

    Send us Fan Mail Mary Howe is a writer, nurse, and military veteran whose work explores identity, transition, faith, and personal growth.  Drawing from a multigenerational military family legacy, she reflects on purpose, resilience, and the quiet work of becoming.  Through her Substack, she shares thoughtful essays on wellness, optimism rooted in history, and the journey from external achievement to internal alignment. - Quick Episode Summary: Mary Howe explores self-worth, transition, legacy, and choosing growth. - SEO Description: Join "Passing The Torch" as Mary Howe and Martin Foster discuss military transition, identity, legacy, and choosing your path to growth and service. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: Navigating military-to-civilian transitionsThe power of internal leadership and self-compassionGrowth during life’s “middle”How history gives us perspective for todayCrafting your own path and legacy- Chapters: 00:00 Intro 05:01 Finding Self-Worth and Stability 09:28 Focus on Your Own Path 10:26 Comparison Is the Thief of Joy 15:48 Identity Beyond Legacy 19:09 Blending Creativity and Professionalism 20:12 Family Patterns and Personality 29:20 Choose Positivity, Embrace Growth 36:27 Grounded Self-Love Practices 42:02 Mark Wahlberg Walk Comparison 45:21 Billboard Message - Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com 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.

    50 min
  6. Ep. 122: Nick Lavery - The Quiet Skill That Makes Great Leaders Dangerous

    MAR 11

    Ep. 122: Nick Lavery - The Quiet Skill That Makes Great Leaders Dangerous

    Send us Fan Mail Nick Lavery is a Special Forces Warrant Officer who returned to combat after losing his leg in a 2013 insider attack in Afghanistan. Refusing medical retirement, he became the first amputee in military history to complete multiple elite Special Forces qualification courses, including Combat Diver. A Silver Star recipient with three Purple Hearts, he speaks on resilience, leadership, and performing at the highest level after adversity. - Quick Episode Summary: Nick Lavery shares lessons on resilience, discipline, leadership, and failure. - SEO Description: Green Beret Nick Lavery talks resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity with host Martin Foster on Passing the Torch.  - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: How to use failure as an opportunityWhy humility and empathy are superpowersThe value of discipline in achieving your goalsStories of mentorship, leadership, and perseverance- Chapters: 00:00 Resilience, Leadership, and Triumph 09:27 Humility as Human Superpower 12:16 Embracing Constant Change 16:35 Choosing Long-Term Over Short-Term 21:20 Embracing Failure to Grow 27:08 Investing in Humans Over Tech 30:06 Building Resilience Through Repetition 34:01 Actions Define Leadership and Influence 38:08 Jocko 41:19 Boston Skit, Worcester Connection 46:56 Evolving Value Beyond Physical Limits 50:02 Selfless Service and Tough Love 52:57 Planting Seeds of Inspiration 55:24 Nick's Billboard Message Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com 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 1m
  7. Ep. 121: Charlynda Scales - Resilience, Rock Bottom, and Rising

    MAR 5

    Ep. 121: Charlynda Scales - Resilience, Rock Bottom, and Rising

    Send us Fan Mail While serving on active duty, Charlynda Scales inherited her grandfather’s (a Korean and Vietnam War Veteran) 1956 barbecue sauce recipe. She realized it;s true power wasn’t the ingredients, but the legacy behind it. Driven by gratitude, she now honors his sacrifice and celebrates the strength binding her family for generations. - Quick Episode Summary: Charlynda Scales shares resilience, entrepreneurship, and authentic leadership lessons learned. - SEO Description: Explore resilience, entrepreneurship, and authentic leadership with Charlynda Scales on Passing the Torch. Real stories, practical advice, and inspiration! - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: From Family Recipe to Entrepreneurial Success: Discover how a 1956 handwritten sauce recipe became a thriving business — complete with an Amish-made first batch and a surprise police encounter!Real Talk on Resilience: Charlynda shares why resilience isn’t just about bouncing back, but about recognizing that overcoming pain can lead to profound gratitude and growth.Bust Down the Box: “You are wonderfully and beautifully made in a perfect image.” Charlynda urges us to break free from suffocating boxes and live unapologetically as ourselves.Finding Your People: The value of like-hearted (not just like-minded) people shines through, with Charlynda giving shoutouts to the friends she’d call at 2am — and advice on choosing your own inner circle.Celebrating Unsung Heroes: Learn about the unsung story of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion and how Charlynda is preserving their legacy in Dayton through the 6888 Kitchen.Vulnerability & Rock Bottom: Why sometimes, the quiet after chaos reveals who we are, and how just showing up (even when it’s hard) can be a win for yourself and your community.- Chapters: 00:00 Intro 06:01 Family Legacy Through Barbecue Sauce 13:49 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 18:36 Be What You Seek 21:43 Finding Strength in Stillness 29:12 Respecting Privacy During Hard Times 34:35 Break Out of the Box 38:26 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance 46:35 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing 50:24 Sweet Friendship and Genuine Respect 55:59 Teacher Inspires Ambitious Future 59:37 Navigating Single Motherhood Challenges 01:04:43 Leadership, Vision, and Application - Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  danguzman 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 18m
  8. Ep. 120: Kellen Mond - From NFL QB to Artist and Photographer

    FEB 26

    Ep. 120: Kellen Mond - From NFL QB to Artist and Photographer

    Send us Fan Mail Passing The Torch is a leadership podcast from TORCH LEAP® featuring long-form conversations on leadership, identity, transition, resilience, and culture. - Kellen Mond shares his journey from surviving the chaotic world of professional football to finding peace and passion in photography and art. Hear about his upcoming debut show, the lessons learned from high-pressure NFL environments, and how his unique lens helps him capture the beauty in imperfection and chaos. - Quick Episode Summary: Kellen Mond discusses NFL challenges, art, photography, and embracing chaos. - SEO Description: Former NFL quarterback Kellen Mond shares his journey from pro sports to art, exploring growth, mental health, and finding beauty in chaos on Passing The Torch. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: How photography helped Kellen Mond rediscover himselfThe transition from NFL quarterback to artist and photographerThe impact of leadership and environment on personal growthHonest discussion about depression, expectations, and redefining successFun, behind-the-scenes anecdotes about NFL teammatesKellen’s dream photography projects and his philosophy on capturing history- Chapters: 00:00 Journey to Mastering Photography 06:07 Football Chaos vs. Photography Peace 10:04 Finding Balance: Hustle and Gratitude 12:40 Reflections on Missed Opportunities 20:20 Flexible Quarterback Coaching Philosophy 21:47 "The Insanity Behind Greatness" 27:21 Football: Not As It Seems 31:07 "Finding Beauty in Imperfection" 33:00 "Passion, Photography, and Life's Paths" 36:22 Snakes, Danger, and Urban Photography 40:30 "Mastering Complexity: NFL vs. Photography" 42:01 "Kirk Cousin's Unique Leadership Style" 46:58 Southern Spain Architecture Tour Plans 49:40 "Historic Moments to Photograph" 54:34 "Never As Bad Or Good" 56:04 "J Cole's Reverse Storytelling" 59:54 "From NFL to Artistry" - Looking for someone to host your event, emcee, or conduct a live podcast, please email passingthetorchpod@gmail.com - Episode Sponsor: Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.  If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com - TORCH LEAP® is a registered trademark of TORCH LEAP®, LLC. 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 1m
4.8
out of 5
23 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.