The Tactical Leader

Zack A. Knight
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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. APR 9

    The Marine Corps and the Entrepreneurial Mindset with T. Shane Johnson

    In the latest episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with Marine veteran, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur T. Shane Johnson to discuss his extraordinary journey from military service to business success. T. Shane's story is one of resilience, survival, and a relentless commitment to helping others, particularly in the veteran community. From surviving an MS-13 gang attack to launching Big Guns Coffee, his path is both inspiring and deeply impactful. The Marine Corps and the Entrepreneurial MindsetT. Shane shared his motivations for joining the Marine Corps, emphasizing the discipline, determination, and brotherhood that shaped his character. The mindset of a Marine—adapt and overcome—proved invaluable in his transition to entrepreneurship. Zack and T. Shane discussed how veterans possess a unique drive and resilience that make them natural leaders in the business world. A Harrowing Near-Death ExperienceOne of the most gripping moments in the episode was T. Shane’s recounting of a brutal attack by MS-13. While riding his motorcycle, he was deliberately hit by a car, leaving him with severe injuries, including broken bones, internal organ damage, and punctured lungs. Despite flatlining multiple times, he fought his way back, determined to use his second chance at life to make a difference. A New Mission: Helping Others Find PurposeAfter recovering, T. Shane faced another challenge—transitioning to civilian life. He initially found success in the mortgage industry, but when the 2008 financial crisis hit, he lost everything and found himself homeless. Rather than giving up, he rebuilt from the ground up, using his story to inspire others through books, public speaking, and initiatives like Hike Across America, where he ran 12,000 miles to raise awareness for homeless veterans and suicide prevention. Redefining Homelessness: The Power of IdentityT. Shane spoke passionately about the need to rebrand homelessness and help those affected regain their sense of self-worth. He proposed an initiative where homeless individuals could write and publish books, sharing their stories as a way to reclaim their identity and generate income. Zack resonated with this idea, emphasizing how purpose and identity are critical for personal and professional growth. Big Guns Coffee: A Business Born from Family and PurposeT. Shane’s journey took another turn when his 10-year-old daughter, Charlie, inspired him to start a business. Together, they launched Big Guns Coffee, a venture that not only supports veterans but also revolutionizes the coffee industry by being the first indoor hydroponic coffee farm in the U.S.. Big Guns Coffee isn’t just a business; it’s a movement—one focused on empowering people through high-quality coffee and a mission-driven brand. T. Shane and Charlie have worked tirelessly to scale their business, and now, they’re preparing for a major national launch. Exciting News: Big Guns Coffee Goes National!🚀 May 2025 – Big Guns Coffee will be available in 427 Sprouts Farmers Market stores 🚀 July 2025 – Expanding to 300 Walmart stores in North & South Carolina This incredible milestone is a testament to hard work, resilience, and family-driven entrepreneurship. Final Thoughts: Leadership, Purpose, and ServiceThroughout the episode, T. Shane and Zack emphasized the importance of leadership, storytelling, and service. Whether in the military, in...

    52 min

  2. MAR 31

    From Delta Force to Business Force with CSM Andy Wilson

    Episode Description: In this special episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, recorded live at the ATLVets Tampa Speaker Series, host Zack Knight sits down with retired Command Sergeant Major Andy Wilson—former Delta Force operator and the powerhouse founder of Quiet Professionals. Andy shares his incredible journey from dropping out of high school in Maine, to climbing the ranks of the most elite military units in the world, to building a multi-million-dollar defense contracting company from the ground up. This conversation is packed with insights on leadership, risk-taking, entrepreneurship, and the mindset required to transition successfully from the military to business. Andy gets real about the early struggles of starting multiple businesses, why reinvesting in systems and people has been the key to his success, and how he's navigated the world of government contracts, private equity, and rapid growth—all with a relentless focus on discipline and serving others. 🔥 Key Takeaways: How Andy’s military career shaped his entrepreneurial mindsetLessons learned from founding and exiting multiple businessesThe power of reinvesting in people, systems, and scalabilityWhy the term “self-made” doesn’t tell the full storyHow to manage risk, failure, and keep moving forwardTransitioning from Special Operations to Special Operations in businessThe realities of private equity partnerships and scaling toward a billion-dollar valuation Featured Guest: Andy Wilson Retired Command Sergeant Major (Delta Force)Founder & CEO, Quiet ProfessionalsSerial entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist Host: Zack Knight Founder of ATLVets & The Tactical Leader Podcast Join ATLVets Events Nationwide: Don’t miss out on our monthly events spotlighting veteran leaders across the country. Learn more: atlvets.org/events Connect with Us: Follow @TheTacticalLeaderPodcast + @ATLVets for more leadership insights and upcoming speaker events. #TheTacticalLeader #ATLVets #AndyWilson #QuietProfessionals #VeteranLeadership #DeltaForce #Entrepreneurship #GovCon #Leadership #PrivateEquity #TampaBusiness #MilitaryTransition #PurposeDrivenBusiness

    47 min

  3. MAR 20

    Embracing the Fight with Tommy Richardson

    Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, Zack Knight sits down with Tommy Richardson, a Marine veteran and Navy SEAL, to dive into his incredible 26-year military career, his transition to civilian life, and how he’s now helping veterans find purpose and leadership beyond the uniform. From his journey through Marine Corps infantry to the elite Navy SEAL teams, to launching Divine Savagery, Tommy shares insights on faith, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of physical fitness as a tool for reintegration. This episode is brought to you by ATL Vets, the premier organization for veteran workforce development and entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways from This Episode1️⃣ Military Service & Transition to Navy SEALs26 years in uniform: Tommy served in both the Marine Corps and Navy SEAL teams, experiencing combat at the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.From Marine to SEAL: Initially aiming for Force Recon, Tommy instead found his calling in the SEAL teams, making the switch in 2007 with the help of fellow operators.Passion for the field: His decision to stay in the fight, rather than being stuck behind a desk, led him to special operations, where he thrived in a high-intensity environment. 2️⃣ The Mental & Spiritual Battle After ServiceFaith kept him going: Tommy credits his faith in God as his ultimate source of strength, guiding him through both war and transition.Understanding the daily battle: He breaks down the constant war between spirit and flesh, helping veterans realize they’re still in the fight, but in a different way.Helping veterans find purpose: Tommy believes veterans are wired for leadership and that transitioning means finding a new mission, not losing identity. 3️⃣ Finding a New Tribe: Westside Barbell & Physical FitnessHealing through movement: After suffering injuries and surgeries, Tommy turned to powerlifting as a way to rebuild physically and mentally.Westside Barbell connection: Through an invite-only process, Tommy joined the legendary Westside Barbell gym, finding a new brotherhood of strength that mirrored the team environment of the military.Physical health as mental therapy: He emphasizes that fitness, discipline, and competition give veterans a way to regain structure and camaraderie. 4️⃣ Building Divine Savagery: Veteran Leadership & WellnessTommy's company, Divine Savagery, is built around three pillars: ✅ Speaking & Leadership Training – Helping organizations and veterans develop elite-level leadership skills. ✅ Business Optimization & Consulting – Applying military discipline and structure to corporate success. ✅ Wellness & Tactical Training – Offering physical training, nutrition coaching, and tactical skill development for veterans and civilians. 🔹 Westside Barbell training programs 🔹 Fitness, nutrition, and recovery coaching 🔹 Special operations & tactical training for military and law enforcement 🔥 Notable Quotes from Tommy Richardson💬 “The flesh is...

    39 min

  4. FEB 13

    A Powerful Conversation with Scott Mann

    In this episode of The Tactical Leader podcast, host Zack Knight sits down with retired Green Beret, entrepreneur, and author Scott Mann for an impactful conversation about leadership, the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life, and the transformative power of storytelling. Key Topics Covered: Scott’s Early Life and Military Aspirations: Scott talks about meeting a Green Beret at the age of 14 and how that moment inspired his future in the military.The Challenges of Transitioning Out of Uniform: Scott opens up about the personal and professional struggles he faced when leaving the military and how he overcame these challenges.The Search for Purpose Beyond Service: Scott emphasizes the importance of finding meaning after service and the steps he took to rediscover his purpose in civilian life.Rooftop Leadership: Learn about Scott’s initiative, Rooftop Leadership, and his approach to leadership, which centers around managing energy—both your own and that of others.Veterans in Entrepreneurship: Scott shares why veterans are uniquely equipped for entrepreneurship and how he designed his life after military service.The Power of Storytelling: Scott dives into why storytelling is such an important tool for veterans and anyone looking to share their journey, heal from past struggles, and connect with others.Mental Health and Self-Care: Scott discusses the importance of self-care and maintaining mental well-being as a critical part of leadership and personal recovery. 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) Want to learn more from Scott Mann? Check out his book Nobody’s Coming to Save You and visit Rooftop Leadership for more on his leadership programs, speaking engagements, and resources for veterans. About The Tactical Leader Podcast: The Tactical Leader is dedicated to helping leaders, especially veterans, develop the skills needed for success in their personal and professional lives. Hosted by Zack Knight, the podcast features conversations with experts in leadership, resilience, and overcoming adversity.

    51 min

  5. JAN 20

    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 min

  6. JAN 13

    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 min

  7. 12/30/2024

    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 min

  8. 12/09/2024

    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 min
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5
out of 5
90 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Zack A. Knight
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    206
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Zack A Knight
  • Show Website
    The Tactical Leader

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