HeroFront Josh White

Today, we have the honor of speaking with Colonel Bree Fram, a trailblazing astronautical engineer, active-duty officer, and the highest ranking trans member in the United States Space Force. Not only is she a decorated leader in her field, but she's also a co-host of the groundbreaking podcast 'Forged in Fire: LGBTQ+ Leadership,' where she and her colleague explore the transformative power of adversity in shaping exceptional leaders. Together with Liz Cavallaro, Bree co-authored 'Forging Queer Leaders,' (which just came out!) a compelling exploration into the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and leadership development, showcasing how embracing diversity drives remarkable outcomes. From her pivotal role in space acquisition policy to her advocacy for LGBTQ+ military service, Bree's journey is one of courage, resilience, and unyielding determination.

During our discussion, she discusses her experiences breaking down barriers and stereotypes as one of the first openly transgender service members. Bree also explores the unique leadership skills developed through experiences in the LGBTQ community, such as authenticity, self-awareness and creating supportive environments. Listeners gain insights into her pivotal role in space acquisition policy and advocacy for LGBTQ military service. Bree also reflects on the opportunities and challenges of building the new Space Force, including managing change while protecting core missions. Throughout the discussion, Bree emphasizes the importance of inclusion, community and paying experiences forward to pave the path for future generations. Her story is one of inspiration that shows the power of overcoming adversity through grit and representation.

Get her book on Amazon here:

https://a.co/d/ePKGLyI



Check out her Podcast here:
https://www.breefram.com/forged-in-fire-podcast.html

Talking Points:

0:00 - Introduction

5:00 - Importance of inclusion and retention in the military
15:00 - LGBTQ leadership experiences and personal growth
25:00 - Space Force importance and opportunities

30:00 - Transgender stereotypes and coming out experiences

35:00 - Resilience through adversity and community

45:00 - Being a trailblazer and overcoming challenges

This special bonus episode of the HeroFront Podcast features an insightful and candid conversation with EOD legend CMSgt Diana Rogers in honor of Memorial Day. Team HeroFront will always have a special EOD Memorial episode that captures the incredible stories of our EOD brothers and sisters. We cover a range of topics including emotional trauma, mental health struggles, leadership challenges, gender barriers in the military, and the importance of vulnerability and mentorship.

We have the privilege of sitting down with CMSgt Diana Rogers, a remarkable leader in the United States Air Force with over two decades of service. Her journey into the Air Force began with a desire to serve something greater than herself, inspired by her stepfather and the allure of civil engineering and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Throughout her career, she has navigated numerous challenges, displayed unwavering commitment, and emerged as a trailblazer in her field. CMSgt Rogers has disarmed more than 200 explosive devices, including 10 IEDs in a single day in Baghdad. She has had incredible mentors like Jason Knapp guide her career and has also endured the loss of wingmen like Walter Moss. Her perseverance in a dangerous and male-dominated career has been exemplary. From her early days grappling with skepticism to becoming the second female Chief Master Sergeant in Air Force EOD history, CMSgt Rogers' story is one of resilience, leadership, and inspiration. Today, we have the opportunity to delve into her experiences, insights, and the remarkable journey that has shaped her into the leader she is today.

In the first segment, Josh White and Diana Rogers share their personal experiences of coping with emotional trauma and mental health struggles, leadership, and impostor syndrome, with Josh and Diana discussing their experiences and the importance of resilience and mentorship. The conversation shifts to breaking gender barriers in the military, reflecting on the challenges faced by women in leadership positions.

The second segment focuses on meaningful missions and emotional moments, including Diana's experiences recovering the remains of soldiers. Diana discusses overcoming gender barriers and sexual harassment in the military, sharing personal stories of perseverance, leadership, mentorship, and career advancement, with Diana talking about the challenges in a male-dominated field and her plans for a women's leadership conference.

The Final segment addresses deployment experiences and loss, highlighting the intense emotions and challenges faced during deployments. Josh and Diana discuss mental health struggles and coping strategies, emphasizing the importance of support. They highlight the role of vulnerability in leadership, with Diana sharing her philosophy on empathy and mental health.

Choosing Hope In The Shadows of Grief: Nicholas Taylor's Tribute to his Daughter's Legacy through Heartfelt Leadership, Empathy, and Authentic Connection

This episode is in loving memory of Denesha Carmella Taylor

Chief Taylor serves as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. In this role, he stands as the foremost enlisted advisor to the Wing Commander, overseeing the well-being, readiness, and development of over 8,000 military and civilian personnel.

Introduction:
Command Chief Master Sergeant Nicholas Taylor takes delves into the realms of leadership, resilience, and the delicate balance between military duty and family life.

Leadership Insights:
(00:08:45 - 00:11:20) Chief Taylor emphasizes the importance of respect, trust, and empathy in effective leadership.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity:
(00:15:30 - 00:18:10) Chief Taylor recounts personal stories of overcoming setbacks and challenges, highlighting the importance of resilience.

Prioritizing Family and Service:
(00:22:55 - 00:25:40) Chief Taylor discusses the balance between military service and family life, emphasizing the importance of investing time and energy in family relationships.

Building Trust and Relationships:
(00:30:15 - 00:32:50) Chief Taylor shares insights on building trust and rapport, stressing the importance of authenticity and integrity.

Nicholas Taylor's legacy looms large, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. Through the prism of leadership, resilience, and familial bonds, Chief Taylor imparts timeless wisdom, illuminating our path with clarity and purpose.

Let's Talk About Military Transition w/Billy Pugh from The Post Military Playbook Podcast!

This special crossover episode brings together Josh White, an active duty serviceman and 'Hero Front Podcast' host, and Billy Pugh, post-military podcast host, for profound dialogues about transitioning out of military service and leaning into their next chapters as fathers. They discuss mental health in the veteran community, touching on depression, ADHD, and handling trauma.

Shedding light on Billy's journey after a brain injury that ended his military career, they reveal how he found a renewed sense of purpose through therapy and a re-evaluation of his life's path. The discussions underpin the importance of community and holistic decision-making in facilitating smooth transitions, and the significance of military skills in civilian life.

The conversations also explore the art of deriving personal value beyond work and finding purpose outside military service, emphasizing personal growth and networking.

Follow Billy Pugh on The Post Military Podcast!

0:00 Josh White - TPMP #51
04:37 How Did HeroFront Get Started?
10:52 What Was It Like Learning To Produce HeroFront? 14:12 The First Guest On The Post Military Podcast
18:02 What Inspired The Post Military Podcast
27:15 What Are Some Impactful Moments Josh Has Experienced With HeroFront?
33:05 How To Have Healthy Conversations
35:31 Becoming Comfortable In Your Own Skin
42:39 The Boys Talk Video Games
51:01 Why Billy Thinks Getting Out Of The Military Was Good 56:29 What Are You Grounding Your Identity In?
01:09:43 How Has HeroFront Prepared Josh For Transition? 01:12:00 Finding Value In Things That Are Outside Of Your Job
01:29:42 What Advice Would Billy Give Himself Before Transition

Josh and Andrew dive deep into the experiences and insights gained during Andrew Cormier's time at the Air Force Academy. They explore Andrew's journey of transformation from a lacrosse player to an Air Force cadet, shedding light on the challenges and growth he experienced along the way. Moreover, they discuss Andrew's motivations for launching For The Zoomies podcast and the impact he hopes to make within military culture.

Identity Shift and Purpose (00:45 - 04:12)

Andrew's transition from a dedicated athlete to a committed Air Force cadet underscores the profound identity shifts often experienced within military institutions. Embracing this change requires a strong sense of purpose and dedication. Military life demands a clear understanding of one's identity and purpose, as these elements form the foundation for resilience and determination amidst the rigorous training and responsibilities.

Leadership and Discipline (04:15 - 08:30)

Through Andrew's reflections on influential leaders at the Air Force Academy, we gain valuable insights into the qualities that define effective leadership within the military context. Balancing relationships and personal growth while adhering to the discipline and structure of military training presents its own set of challenges, highlighting the importance of adaptability and perseverance.

Podcasting Journey and Motivation (08:35 - 13:20)

Andrew's decision to start The Zoomies podcast stemmed from a desire to bridge the gap between cadet life and the broader military community. By sharing stories and insights, he aims to inform and inspire fellow cadets about the diverse career paths available within the armed forces. The podcast serves as a platform for meaningful discussions that delve into the realities of military life, providing listeners with valuable perspectives and resources to navigate their own journeys.

Military Culture and Personal Growth (13:25 - 17:50)

Exploring military culture reveals its profound impact on personal development, shaping individuals into resilient, adaptable, and disciplined professionals. Trust and transparency serve as cornerstones of effective communication within military settings, fostering camaraderie and mutual understanding among service members.

Memorable Guests and Conversations (17:55 - 22:10)

The Zoomies podcast has featured a diverse array of guests, each offering unique insights and experiences related to military life and service. Through these conversations, listeners gain access to a wealth of knowledge and wisdom, empowering them to navigate the complexities of military careers with confidence and clarity.

Conclusion (22:15 - 24:30)

Andrew’s podcasting journey exemplifies the power of storytelling in shaping military culture and inspiring the next generation of service members. By sharing his own experiences and amplifying the voices of others, he has created a platform that fosters connection, understanding, and growth within the military community. As listeners tune in to The Zoomies, they embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment, guided by Andrew's unwavering commitment to service and purpose.

"Choosing Purpose Over Promotion: The Resilient Leadership Blueprint of Abi Scott"

Chief Scott, Chief of Enlisted Force Development at Headquarters United States Space Force, brings a wealth of experience and insight. From strategic vision to advising top leadership, he's shaping the future of enlisted Guardians. With a diverse background spanning satellite communications, cyber defense, and intelligence operations, Chief Scott's perspective is invaluable.



Here's what you can expect in this episode:

- The importance of authenticity and caring in leadership roles, and how genuine connections can significantly impact motivation and well-being.

- Strategies for navigating challenges and conflicting values in leadership, with an emphasis on resilience and continuous growth.

- The pivotal role of teamwork and collaboration in leadership success, and the positive impact of supportive environments on individual and collective achievement.

- The transformative power of mentorship and genuine relationships in personal and professional development, and how they contribute to resilience and self-awareness.

- Strategies for overcoming setbacks and finding purpose amidst challenges, highlighting the journey from adversity to success.

- The intersection of personal and professional identities, as exemplified through anecdotes about family life and self-discovery in the military context.

- Innovative approaches to leadership education and the importance of experiential learning and connection-building among enlisted personnel.



0:00 - Intro

4:00 - Authenticity and caring in a pep talk7:19 - Leadership, values, and motivation in the Air Force
13:15 - Leadership lessons learned and prioritization
10:03 - Teamwork, leadership, and collaboration in the military
25:07 - Leadership, mentorship, and friendship
33:14 - Personal growth and relationships
37:42 - Leadership perspectives and providing meaning to Air Force personnel
43:09 - Air Force and Space Force leadership
46:17 - Background, leadership, and Space Force experience
52:33 - Career setbacks and personal growth in the military
58:02 - Marriage, family, and self-discovery
1:02:18 - Parenting, PME, and service branch differences
1:08:25 - Creating a new type of leadership program
1:12:53 - Leadership and education innovation
1:15:57 - Leadership, courage, and purpose