Passing The Torch with Martin Foster

Martin Foster
  • 4.8 (23)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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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.

  1. Ep. 118: Better Has No Finish Line - Joe Bogdan on Growth and Meaning

    7H AGO

    Ep. 118: Better Has No Finish Line - Joe Bogdan on Growth and Meaning

    Send a text Joe Bogdan is a remarkable teacher, mentor, and Air Force leader turned business innovator. We talked about resilience, finding purpose after military service, and the real, sometimes messy journey of leadership. Joe shared insights from his book, “Better Has No Finish Line,” and how facing life’s toughest moments can spark true growth. If you’re looking for encouragement, actionable leadership wisdom, and a reminder that consistency beats perfection every time, this episode is for you. Don’t miss it! - Quick Episode Summary: Joe Bogdan shares leadership lessons, resilience, and personal growth insights. - SEO Description: Air Force veteran Joe Bogdan shares leadership lessons, resilience, and insights from his new book, "Better Has No Finish Line," on Passing The Torch. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: Meet Joe Bogdan: Air Force vet, mentor, podcaster, and authorHis turning point moment: when life knocked (literally)Why he feels blessed in this new chapter of lifeLeadership, purpose, and the myth of the "Instagram life”New book alert + a special discount just for you!“Name Game” rapid-fire: from Marcus Aurelius to Mr. Rogers- Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:42 Celebrating Peerless Consistency 09:42 Teen Finds Out House Foreclosed 13:35 Struggles with Paternal Truth 15:20 Latchkey Childhood and Self-Reliance 18:03 Overcoming Leadership Drift 22:38 Inspiring Leadership Over Impressing 27:05 Living in Achievement's Tension 30:32 Filling the Void Within 34:15 Actions Over Words Matter 38:59 Fred Rogers: Redefining Real Man 41:14 Marcus Aurelius vs. Fred Rogers Moments 44:27 Books Joe Frequently Gifts 51:54 Billboard Message 55:34 Encouragement Through Life's Challenges - 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 - ➡︎ Order BETTER HAS NO FINISH LINE and use promo code Torch for 25% off until February 19th, 2026: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/better-has-no-finish-line ➡︎ Companion Workbook: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/better-has-no-finish-line-workbook 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

    1 hr
  2. Ep. 117: From Cuba to CIA - Ric Prado on Service, Sacrifice, and Black Ops

    FEB 5

    Ep. 117: From Cuba to CIA - Ric Prado on Service, Sacrifice, and Black Ops

    Send a text On this edition of Passing the Torch, Martin Foster welcomes legendary CIA operations officer and bestselling author Ric Prado to the show. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes in clandestine operations, this episode is an absolute must-listen. - Quick Episode Summary: CIA legend Ric Prado shares life, service, sacrifice, and powerful lessons. - SEO Description: CIA veteran Ric Prado shares insights on covert operations, resilience, and life lessons with host Martin Foster on Passing The Torch podcast. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: You’ll hear Ric reflect on: The inspirations and the adversity that shaped him—from Cuba to clandestine combat.The real truth about life in the CIA, dispelling Hollywood myths about covert operations and the people behind them.Stories behind his book "Black Ops" and the movement to bring it to the screen as a TV series.Hard-won lessons about integrity, faith, service, and facing moral grey areas when the stakes are highest.His personal legacy, giving back by mentoring the next generation of special operators and intelligence officers.Fun anecdotes about baseball, collecting autographs, and memories from Miami to Japan.- Chapters: 00:00 Victor Frankl: Choosing Growth 06:11 CIA's Stories and Misrepresentation 09:49 CIA Misconceptions and Hollywood 12:19 Flawed Characters Undermine Aspirations 16:59 Espionage Work Under Cover 20:31 Faith, Resilience, and Adversity 21:22 From Cuba to Resilience 24:48 Resilience and Mentorship Reflections 29:02 Friendship and Human Nature 32:53 Faith, Conviction, and Resilience 35:52 Insanely Tough and Polished 37:35 Honoring an Exceptional Connector 41:55 Baseball Memories and Connections 44:27 Baseball, Poverty, and Resilience 48:14 Faith, Gratitude, and Guidance 51:34 Keep Inspiring Positive Influence 53:46 Passing the Torch Impact - 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 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

    56 min
  3. Ep. 116: From Small Beginnings to Big Impact - Ken Coleman’s Insights on Purpose and Transformation

    JAN 29

    Ep. 116: From Small Beginnings to Big Impact - Ken Coleman’s Insights on Purpose and Transformation

    Send a text Ken Coleman elaborates on the role of podcasts in shaping culture and providing on-demand content that influences listeners.  He highlights the importance of clarity in building confidence and courage, sharing his personal experiences of transitioning from a political career to broadcasting.  The episode wraps up with light-hearted segments, including a fun name game and Ken's reflections on influential figures in his life, showcasing his gratitude and the impact of mentorship on his journey. - Quick Episode Summary: Ken Coleman shares insights on purpose, clarity, confidence, and podcasting. - SEO Description: Ken Coleman shares lessons on purpose, clarity, self-awareness, and career growth in this inspiring Passing The Torch podcast episode with Martin Foster. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: Ken Coleman’s definition of wealth and gratitudeHow to prioritize wants vs. needs (advice for teens & adults!)The influence of podcasting on cultural shiftsWhy clarity is essential before confidence and courage are possibleThe hidden bridge between humble beginnings and lasting successKen’s “proximity principle” and finding your purpose in any fieldOvercoming self-doubt and dreaming big—at any ageFun rapid-fire questions (including Ken’s wrestling tag-team name with George Kamel!)- Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Best Hair at Ramsey? 05:45 Balancing Desire with Practicality 06:40 Logic and Emotion in Spending 11:23 Self-Awareness and Root Causes 13:42 Military Retirement Insurance Solutions 18:32 Leaving Politics with Peace 20:55 Living with Purpose and Integrity 25:24 Pursuing Passion Despite Sacrifices 27:21 Driven Despite the Struggles 30:58 Confidence, Vulnerability, and Self-Belief 33:25 Self-Doubt in Ambition 36:39 Early Career-Shaping Interview 41:13 Exploring News Behind the Why 44:33 Ken and George Kamel's Tag Team Wrestling Name 47:21 Lessons on Purpose and Clarity - 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 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

    48 min
  4. Ep. 115: Ray Cash Care - Why Vulnerability Is a Leadership Weapon

    JAN 27

    Ep. 115: Ray Cash Care - Why Vulnerability Is a Leadership Weapon

    Send us a text True strength isn’t pretending you have it all together. Ray “Cash” Care explains why vulnerability builds trust, strengthens teams, and creates leaders people actually want to follow. - Quick Episode Summary: Ray Cash Care shares leadership lessons, vulnerability, and life reflections. - SEO Description: Passing the Torch podcast: Navy SEAL Ray Cash Care shares leadership, mindset, vulnerability, and success stories with host Martin Foster. Listen now! - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: In this episode, Ray opens up about: The pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership and mindsetWhy kindness and vulnerability are strengths, not weaknessesHow he balances faith, family, fitness, and giving backLessons from the SEAL teams, CIA, and life as an entrepreneurThe importance of betting on yourself and building your own futureStories about renowned mentors like Tim Grover and Bedros Keuilian- Chapters: 00:00 Funny Intro 03:46 Why life is great right now 08:58 Everything Works Itself Out 11:10 Stage Shirt Story 20:15 Belief, Process, and Results 21:09 Creating a Masterpiece Every Day 22:47 How Vulnerability Equals Strength 26:21 Overcoming Addictions Through Push-Ups 28:09 Ray’s Childhood and his Dad (Sons being reflections of their father) 32:53 Self-Reflection and Accountability 37:49 Ethical Wealth Through Leadership 46:17 Finding Purpose Beyond the Roof 52:27 Tribute to a Generous Soul 57:19 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 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

    1h 2m
  5. Ep. 114: Edgar Jones on Transformation, Forgiveness, Growth, Life Lessons, and Football Stories

    JAN 22

    Ep. 114: Edgar Jones on Transformation, Forgiveness, Growth, Life Lessons, and Football Stories

    Send us a text Meet Edgar Jones. He is a seven-year NFL Veteran, Professional Speaker, John Maxwell Certified Coach, and Author.   Edgar helps high performers apply championship-level strategies to lead more effectively without burning out.  - Quick Episode Summary: Edgar Jones discusses growth, vulnerability, resilience, and healthy masculinity. - SEO Description: Passing The Torch podcast: Martin Foster interviews Edgar Jones on lessons in growth, transition, healthy masculinity, and the power of asking the right questions. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights:  Healthy masculinity and regulating emotionsThe impact of asking better questions in personal and professional growthLessons learned from NFL experiences, addiction recovery, and mentorshipThe power of writing letters to your younger selfThe role of faith in navigating adversityA fun "Name Game" highlighting positive influences and leadershipActionable takeaways for building resilience and serving your community- Chapters: 00:00 Connections and Friendships 07:43 Permission Before Pouring Insights 11:46 Curiosity Fuels Growth 20:12 Rumble Strips: Guidance and Accountability 25:41 Journey of Self-Discovery 30:16 Seeking Validation: The Red Dot 35:46 Edgar's Letter to Younger Self 42:05 Tragedy, Pain, and Coping 45:03 Checking In on High Achievers 50:55 "64: The Underdog Story" 54:55 Effort That Changed Everything 01:02:12 The Importance of Connection 01:04:53 Professional Speaker and Executive Coach - 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 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

    1h 9m
  6. Ep. 113: Austen Alexander - Engineering Confidence After the Uniform Comes Off

    JAN 15

    Ep. 113: Austen Alexander - Engineering Confidence After the Uniform Comes Off

    Send us a text Meet Austen Alexander, a Navy veteran turned entrepreneur and fitness influencer.  In this episode, we discuss Austen's unique approach to fitness, his journey to YouTube success, and the importance of gratitude and self-belief.  Austen shares insights on overcoming self-doubt, the significance of authenticity in content creation, and his commitment to inspiring the next generation.  - Quick Episode Summary: Austen Alexander shares wisdom on confidence, fitness, entrepreneurship. - SEO Description: Navy Veteran Austen Alexander talks fitness, entrepreneurship, and overcoming self-doubt. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: YouTube journeyLessons learned from military life and overcoming fearStory behind the unique spelling of “Austen”Life-changing perspective shifts and personal development momentsBuilding Battle Bunker, leading Hybricon Games, and scaling businessesImpact of raw, authentic contentAdvice for anyone struggling with self-doubt or anxiousShoutouts to influential leaders and friends from his military journeyLighter moments, fun stories, and rapid-fire questions- Chapters: 0:00 Intro  2:30 Why life is great right now  6:45 Spelling Austen with an “E” and what Google says about it  8:37 What inspired Austen to mentor high school students 10:25 Message to 14-year old self and for people who do not value themselves 12:25 Self-imposed limits during Navy Career and YouTube Journey 14:28 Go-To mindset when experiencing self-doubt and pivotal life moment 18:48 On his content having INVISIBLE POSITIVE IMPACT 21:16 Reflections on his first trip home to Alabama after leaving the Navy 23:49 Striking balance between authenticity and creating engaging content  26:14 Advice to people afraid of being their authentic selves 28:45 Excitement about upcoming 2026 projects 31:26 Movie Image depicting leadership that comes to mind 33:09 Navy Leader that had the most impact on Austen  35:41 Which Veteran Austen would team up with on The Amazing Race  37:08 Name Game and Admiral Acorn  43:05 Billboard  44:15 Wisdom for future guests  - 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 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

    55 min
  7. Ep. 112: Reinventing Yourself - Jessica Meuse Talks Military Service, Ambitions, and Staying True

    JAN 8

    Ep. 112: Reinventing Yourself - Jessica Meuse Talks Military Service, Ambitions, and Staying True

    Send us a text In a world where change is the only constant, Jessica Meuse's journey from a civilian to an officer in the Coast Guard serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and authenticity. In a recent podcast episode, she shares her experiences, challenges, and the surprising joys of military life, all while maintaining her unique sense of humor and passion for music. - Quick Episode Summary: Jessica Meuse shares military journey, music, friendships, and future plans. - SEO Description: Jessica Meuse returns for her second episode of Passing The Torch! Hear her Coast Guard journey, life changes, music, gaming, and inspiring advice. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: Reflections on the importance of leaving your hometownThe oddities of military humor and finding “your people”Making new friendships that truly matter, especially during tough timesHer musical roots, plans for new music, and even a potential Coast Guard project!Fun personal questions: Which movie character would she write a crush letter to? Which TV world would she join?Wisdom on empathy, unity, and leaving a positive mark- Chapters: 00:00 Balancing Coast Guard and Passion 03:41 Life Challenges in Juneau 07:24 Adjusting After OCS Mentality 12:06 Seeking Change and Inspiration 15:06 Pursuing Goals Through Education 18:08 Unexpected Encounter on Journey 21:35 Impacting One Life Is Enough 24:54 Unity Over Division 28:41 Impactful Lyrics and Connection 30:06 Studio Setup and Music Plans 33:08 Grateful for Your Kindness - 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 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

    33 min
  8. Ep. 111: From the CIA to Storytelling - Tessa Robinson on Leadership, Resilience, and Service

    JAN 6

    Ep. 111: From the CIA to Storytelling - Tessa Robinson on Leadership, Resilience, and Service

    Send us a text Tessa Robinson is seasoned communicator and storyteller with a rich background in public service and the military community joins Martin Foster on Passing The Torch.  They discuss the importance of storytelling, the challenges of navigating bureaucracy, and Tessa's leadership philosophy shaped by her experiences.  Tessa shares personal anecdotes about her family life, her work with military spouses, and the impact of community connections.  The conversation also touches on her series, The Deployment Diary, which offers a candid look at military family life, and concludes with reflections on legacy and the joy of living authentically. - Quick Episode Summary: Tessa Robinson shares leadership, storytelling, and resilience from remarkable experiences. - SEO Description: Join Martin Foster as he interviews Tessa Robinson, award-winning author and storyteller, about leadership, authentic storytelling, and impactful mentorship. - 🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights: Everyone has a story, and the most important stories are often the ones that aren’t being told.Leadership means seeing—and appreciating—the people who keep things moving forward, whether they’re in the spotlight or behind the scenes.Vulnerability, authenticity, and mentorship are powerful gifts: give them and seek them.- Chapters: 00:00 Dancing, Stress, and Super Bowl 04:25 Storytelling Through Animated Design 10:21 Leadership's Most Important Question 13:02 Burnout, Transition, and Gratitude 14:43 Passion for Supporting Military Spouses 18:57 Storytelling's Power in Leadership 21:49 Embracing Imperfection and Authenticity 25:43 Surround Yourself with Inspiring People 30:59 The Power of Mentorship 32:08 Support Through Life Transitions 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

    34 min
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4.8
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

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.

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