Words from the Wise

Send us a text A career isn’t a straight line—it’s a wake, and sometimes the seas are rougher than the chart suggests. Gary sits down with Master Chief Mike “Kaz” Kaszubowski to trace three decades of Navy life from Chicago sidewalks to Seventh Fleet, from learning damage control on Treasure Island to stabilizing a crew after the FITZ collision. What emerges is a rare, unvarnished look at mentorship, advancement, and the real cost of leadership when the headlines fade and the deck plates still need answers. Kaz shares how a young DC2 became the kind of senior enlisted leader who could run the plant, guide a mess, and hold a standard without losing the human. We talk about building platform expertise, why EL letters once defined engineering credibility, and the difference between doing maintenance on paper and owning it in the spaces. We confront culture shifts head-on: the end of “work hard, play hard” as a shield, the long shadow of Fat Leonard on liberty and trust, and the operational grind that shaped sailors in Japan long before it made front pages. Fairness is a theme throughout—how boards actually read records, how influence can distort detailing, and why compensation still lags responsibility for command master chiefs. This episode isn’t nostalgia. It’s a field guide. You’ll hear practical truths about 3M realities, manning myths, and how to share the load across departments so casualty response is a ship’s sport. You’ll hear how to pick mentors who tell you what you need to hear, not what you want, and why three rules can carry you through chaos: lead yourself exceptionally well, create opportunities for others to succeed, and keep a positive attitude. If you care about leadership, loyalty, and doing the right thing when it’s costly, you’ll find something to carry back to your team. If this conversation hit a nerve or gave you a tool you can use today, share it with a shipmate and leave a quick review. Subscribe for more candid, useful leadership talks that respect your time and your intelligence. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text A creative kid from Memphis taught himself to record raps in a closet, signed an indie deal in high school, and then made a decision everyone told him was unlikely: he joined the Navy to buy time, structure, and a ticket to the wider world. We sit down with Marteverick “Shears” to trace how standing watch in a windowless CIC in Japan sharpened his grit, why leadership choices like barracks access change morale, and how a rough start in San Diego—complete with an early DUI—forced a reset that ultimately saved his creative life. The pivot came with a camera. He started shooting free to build a portfolio, priced modestly, reinvested in gear, and learned the business of saying yes to small gigs. Film school followed, where cinematography gave him the technical fluency to see a story in light and lenses, and directing unlocked something deeper: alignment. He found his voice not in bravado, but in nuance—masculinity, faith, fear, and the quiet ways trauma travels through families. That voice powers his first feature, Within Strength, set during the 2008 recession and rooted in Memphis neighborhoods that shaped him. It asks a hard question: what happens when men don’t heal? The South isn’t just cheaper than LA—it’s truer for this story, with textures you can’t fake on a backlot. We talk funding strategy, from investor outreach to table reads and documenting the entire journey so the audience joins early. We swap lessons from the watchfloor and the film set: perseverance beats perfection, adaptability prevents endless “bounce backs,” and timing meets preparation in rooms where someone who knows you speaks your name. Along the way, we hit fatherhood, faith without clichés, and the practical blueprint for building a career after service without losing your soul to the hustle. If you felt this conversation, follow, rate, and share it with someone who’s balancing duty and a dream. Subscribe for more real talk at the intersection of military grit and creative work, and tell us: what city should back Within Strength first? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Orders said “Guam,” and Ashley’s world changed overnight. What followed was a whirlwind of a temporary hotel room, a toddler, a pregnancy, and a husband who left again within a week for a year-and-a-half stretch tied to submarine maintenance in San Diego. Instead of folding, she found a way forward—thanks to an ombudsman with a welcome bag, a community that shows up at the airport, and a choice to step into leadership when it mattered most. We trace Ashley’s path from Michigan to Groton and Washington, then across the ocean to Guam, where the contrast with stateside life is unmistakable. She explains how ombudsman training connected her HR background with the realities of deployment support, and how COVID stress-tested everything: supply runs for crews at sea, constantly shifting rules, commissary lines that wound like a maze, and families who needed battle buddies as much as they needed groceries. The lessons are clear—communication beats assumptions, community beats isolation, and resourcefulness beats uncertainty. Ashley also opens up about transforming volunteer service into a professional role at Fleet and Family Support—first on island coordinating ombudsmen, deployment briefs, FRG support, and TAP, then on a remote team delivering virtual workshops and one-on-one consultations across time zones. We talk candidly about parenting far from home, a spouse stepping into the COB pipeline, and a looming homeport change that will ripple through every family on board. Her advice for new overseas spouses is practical and direct: get out of the house, meet your neighbors, and build roots where your feet are. Whether you’re eyeing overseas orders, navigating a tough deployment, or considering a career pivot that aligns with service, you’ll walk away with strategies you can use today. If this conversation helps you or someone you love, follow the show, share it with a military family, and leave a review so more listeners can find these stories. What’s your best tip for thriving far from home? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Navy Senior Chief (Ret.) Mike Savant spent 23 years turning weather into warfare — from forecasting off Iraqi oil platforms to keeping a three-star calm while the flagship’s comms melted down on the flight deck. He made Chief at 11 years, Senior Chief at 14, consistently ranked #1 EP, and helped stand up new commands… only to watch the advancement goalposts move — twice. In this episode Mike pulls no punches: How tactical meteorology decides what aircraft fly and how far sonar can actually “see” The surreal months living on a barge tied to Iraq’s burning oil terminals The night the USS Blue Ridge went dark and the only comms was an Iridium phone and an angry captain Why he finally walked away from a sure shot at Master Chief when his autistic son needed him more than the Navy did The civilian market that happily pays for calm-in-chaos leadership (spoiler: Amazon paid better than Fleet Master Chief) Hard-earned lessons on talent management, gentle pressure parenting, and knowing when to take the uniform off for good If you’ve ever felt the promotion ladder get yanked out from under you, or you’re trying to decide where family actually ranks against another set of orders, this one’s for you. Subscribe, drop a review, and tell us: where would YOU draw the line? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does it take to go from a San Diego kid sleeping on potential to a Master Chief ET shaping ship readiness across Seventh Fleet? Dom Taylor joins us to unpack a career built on grit, clear standards, and the kind of leadership that keeps gear up and teams together. From a Subway job behind bulletproof glass to freezing mornings in Great Lakes, Dom learned to troubleshoot deeper than the checklist and to carry that discipline onto a small frigate through 9/11 and into the carrier world where he became an LPO who lifted his division by giving sailors the wrench. Japan changed the game. At SRF Yokosuka, Dom saw how ships truly improve: precise job writing, strong relationships, and technical honesty. He lived through the 2011 earthquake and watched a community choose calm and care. On Mustin he corrected a “counseling sheet culture,” rebuilt trust with an LDO, and prepared for INSURV with a simple rule—if the gear is up, the brow is down. When an EMO hoarded troubleshooting, Dom pushed repairs back to the level that makes future experts. Then came Blue Ridge: a long yard period, a sprint to sea, heavy comms, and watchstander training just after two crushing collisions. Dom helped turn a ship back into a ship, and he never forgot that industrial spaces don’t forgive complacency. Today, as a civilian leader at SRF, he runs interior comms, radar, nav, and TSCE teams, green-lighting assistance only when ships truly try. He still teaches antenna standards, insists on clean spaces, and draws a hard line between subject matter knowledge and real troubleshooting. The takeaway is clear: platform depth beats thin familiarity, chiefs must protect time to think, and nothing stops you except you. If you lead sailors, manage maintenance, or just want a sharper leadership edge, this one will sharpen your standards and your story. Enjoy the episode? Subscribe, share with a shipmate, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text A Bay Area kid keeps a promise to his mother and steps into a Navy that will test everything—grit, heart, and the courage to say “no” when “make it happen” would be easier. From recommissioning the battleship Wisconsin and learning the hard truths of old powder in big turrets, to swapping coasts, choosing Boatswain’s Mate, and owning the deck with shiny boots and higher standards, Pete Santos charts a career built on character rather than convenience. We walk through shore security in Italy during the Gulf War surge—12-on/12-off watches, real incidents, and a blunt look at manning that still hasn’t caught up. EOD Mobile Unit duty adds the discipline of systems—3M, HAZMAT, SNAP—and the humility to learn a new culture. Alameda’s reserve center reveals the civilian muscle behind the uniform. Destroyer life on 9/11 redraws the map of normal, and Coronado brings anchors and an initiation that forges purpose instead of theatrics. Higgins delivers BMCS and that coveted OOD letter. Amphibs demand respect for steel, sweat, and Marines who keep you honest. As a Command Master Chief, Pete frames a clear compass: listen to senior enlisted counsel, tell the CO the truth without varnish, and take care of families where they actually live. ESG7 in Japan makes the politics plain, but people come first. The Fukushima crisis becomes a defining test—midnight airport runs, one-screw underways, ash falling, and a choice to hold the line for mission and home. COVID magnifies leadership styles: corrosive control vs. calm competence. Adm. Cooper changes the weather—awards from memory, sailors elevated on merit, and a command climate that breathes. We finish with a meaningful pivot: degrees, SHRM-SCP, PMP, and a challenge to leaders and parents alike—paint your canvas on day one. Decide the picture your team will remember, then build the daily habits that make it true. If you value real leadership, raw stories, and lessons you can use tomorrow—press play, share it with a shipmate, and leave a review telling us what moment hit home. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does it take to turn a restless teenager into a leader who can steady a room in a crisis and still laugh with his team after? Gary opens up about ten reasons he’s deeply grateful for the Navy, starting with faith and flowing through family, community, and craft. From two sons born at naval medical centers—without the crush of medical bills—to a marriage that found its footing amid deployments and long watches, the story is grounded, specific, and full of hard-won joy. We unpack the Chiefs Mess as a true home base: not just a rank but a tribe that teaches standards, loyalty, and how to fight for your people. Gary shares how engineering and damage control became his gateway to confidence—learning to troubleshoot under pressure, mastering manuals, and finding that calm gear that changes everything. The post‑9/11 years shaped purpose as he deployed in support of the global war on terror and Iraqi operations, carrying Marines to combat and returning with fewer than he left. Pride in service lives alongside the honest work of “putting it back in the box” after tempo and loss. The journey stretches across twelve years overseas in Yokosuka, Sasebo, and Guam, where living abroad became a family superpower—adaptability, gratitude, and a wider view of the world. Retirement at 45 reframed success: a pension and benefits that reduce pressure so he can choose purpose, teach JROTC, and build young leaders. And the education arc—from GED to associate’s, bachelor’s, and a master’s in organizational leadership—shows how tuition assistance and the GI Bill turn opportunity into generational change. If this story resonates—service, second chances, and finding your people—tap follow, share it with someone who needs the push, and leave a review with the moment that hit you hardest. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners who are ready to lead with heart. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does it take to turn a “dirty ship” into the crew everyone else calls when things get tough? We sit down with Master Chief Jeffrey “JB” Brooks—raised in Fort Payne, Alabama by his grandparents, recruited by accident, forged on deckplates after 9/11—to unpack the real mechanics of culture change, readiness, and trust. JB planned on law school. Instead, he learned craft at the Naval Academy, qualifying as a craftmaster under low‑viz radar drills and teaching midshipmen the art of navigation. Forward deployed on USS ESSEX in Sasebo, he shouldered relentless ops, clashing personalities, and the grief of losing a sailor. The hinge of his story is USS ASHLAND: he arrived to a toxic climate and a failing readiness picture, reset leadership roles based on performance, and rebuilt standards from the ground up. When manning cratered, he and the mess engineered a shipwide solution—cross‑qualified watchstanders and clear, honest expectations. The results were undeniable: improvement at MCA and a green INSURV without a stand‑down, because readiness became a daily habit, not an event. We also follow JB to Millington, where he learned the system behind billets, hot‑fills, and the human realities of detailing, then to Yokosuka, where he serves as Brig OIC and even stepped in as acting base XO. New domain, same principles: read the book, run the what‑ifs, and decide with character. Along the way, JB shares practical leadership tools—“yes if” framing, steady strain over whipsaw, standards before optics—and how to parent teenagers without treating them like sailors. If you care about deckplate leadership, amphib ops, FDNF tempo, inspections that matter, and culture that sticks, this conversation delivers both playbook and proof. If this resonated, share it with a shipmate, subscribe for more real leadership stories, and leave a review with the lesson you’ll apply this week. Your feedback helps more listeners find conversations that make teams better. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text A single decision can redraw an entire life. Danielle Wiley walked into a recruiter’s office with a toddler at home and chose purpose over certainty. That step led from DCFN on USS Comstock to Chief Warrant Officer, from ER09 tag-outs and Halon head checks to carrier fire marshal authority, and finally to AIRPAC N7 where she now shapes how carriers train, certify, and fight. This conversation is an unfiltered look at what shipboard readiness truly demands—and the faith, humility, and loyalty required to sustain it for nearly three decades. We start with family roots in service, the shock of boot camp’s communal grind, and the raw reality of early damage control work. Danielle explains how she turned DCPO from a dumping ground into a shipwide contract: departments own their spaces, QA is non-negotiable, and readiness is a habit, not a hero moment. At ATG San Diego she saw the fleet’s real baseline and learned to turn inspections into mentorship. Precom on USS Anchorage forged a Senior Chief who built rank and culture together, and commissioning brought the carrier crucible: IET musters, Zebra discipline, and direct lines to the CO when safety needed top cover. From Essex she scaled DC rigor into maintenance management for an LHD: project plans, funding fights, 3M truth-telling. Lincoln added back-to-back deployments that show what resilience looks like on a calendar. Today, in AIRPAC N7, Danielle aligns TLOs, ATG teams, and TYCOM standards across coasts and Japan—and she recently helped overhaul the DC PQS by bringing every platform voice to the table. Along the way we talk parenthood across oceans, faith in waves, and the leadership choices that matter: listen before you speak, follow before you lead, and protect sailors with clarity, not just compliance. If you care about leadership, damage control, Navy culture, or the way training becomes survival, you’ll find lessons you can use tomorrow. Subscribe, share this episode with a teammate you trust under pressure, and leave a review with the moment that hit you hardest. Your story might be the next one someone needs. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text A senior chief once looked a captain in the eye and saved a young sailor’s career. That moment—anchored in truth and courage—sits at the heart of this conversation with Tony Cook, a Chicago kid turned Navy chief whose life was forged by failure, faith, and the fire of real work. We walk through the knucklehead years, the undesignated grind, and a near-disastrous DUI with an unregistered firearm at the gate—then the comeback fueled by one leader’s advocacy and Tony’s decision to earn ESWS and own his path. From Sasebo storms on a rescue salvage ship to the relentless reality of “fixed systems” on a carrier, Tony lays out how damage control truly works: Halon, AFFF, HPLF stations, dailies that never end, and the 3M math that too often doesn’t add up. We dig into emergency management in Djibouti, the odd little miracle when the “rain stopped,” and how quiet faith steadies a crew when the sea gets mean. You’ll hear how the chiefs’ mess at SWOS pushed him to the edge until it finally clicked—why community matters if you want to protect sailors for real. We get honest about a destroyer tour with thin support, the perfect storm of grief and divorce, and the hard choice to retire without a ceremony because the tank was empty. Then we switch to transition tactics: pay down debt, build a three-month runway, expect pay hiccups, and find mentors who’ve already crossed the bridge. Tony shares how he parents a teenager with time, questions, and stories he wishes he’d heard sooner—and why guarding against “the other guy” requires consistent faith and better habits. If you care about leadership, shipboard readiness, or the messy, meaningful work of becoming a better man, this one will hit. It’s deckplate truth, told with humility: don’t stop, keep digging, and when someone saves you, pay it forward with action. If this moved you, tap follow, share it with a shipmate or friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. Your voice helps others find the show. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text A mechanic from Wyoming walks into a recruiter’s office and walks out on a path that leads to P-3 flight engineer, deployments over Bahrain and Diego Garcia, Chief in Hawaii, instructor in Jacksonville, test and research at Pax River, and ultimately the command seat in Guam during one of the toughest stretches the Navy’s seen. That arc belongs to retired Master Chief Mike Marler, and it’s a masterclass in choosing hard roads, learning fast, and owning outcomes when the plan explodes at lunchtime. We start with the family decision to join at 22, studying through A School with a spouse and kids at home, and advancing early by sheer preparation. Mike breaks down the brutal, brilliant FE pipeline—aircrew school, SERE in winter, and a 10‑month systems marathon that only counts when you can translate book knowledge into touches, switches, and calm decisions at altitude. He shares the thrill and gravity of surveillance flights and how instructor duty forged his voice and standards. Then we turn to leadership in the deep end: rate conversions that slowed promotions, Pax River’s test world where you learn to speak engineer and operator in the same sentence, and the pivot to the Command Program. In Guam, he inherits a mission that never sleeps—embarked security teams, Mark VI patrol boats, and a PERS tempo that punishes families. His approach is simple and rare: “You’ll never hear no from me. You’ll get the true cost.” We unpack extreme ownership expressed as extreme communication—listening to second classes, reframing asks to higher, counting ROM as deployed time, and protecting the force by telling the truth up and down. Finally, we go full circle to CNATT in Pensacola, leading a training enterprise that graduates tens of thousands each year, and talk about the identity shift after retirement. Mike’s lessons land for sailors, parents, and managers alike: meet people where they are, win in the environment you have (not the one you wish you had), and don’t confuse a failure with being a failure. Perseverance over performance theater; clarity over comfort. If this conversation sharpened your mindset or gave you a tool you can use today, share it with a teammate, hit follow, and leave a quick review—then tell us: what’s the hardest lesson you owned this year? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Gary Wise and his guest retired US Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Gary Harn sit down and trade a lifetime of lessons—funny, raw, and precise. We start in Honeywell, Missouri, where a town shrinks to a post office and a kid takes his first flight to boot camp. From there, the story punches straight through 9/11: a young yeoman lands on the Abraham Lincoln, rides an 11-month deployment from Afghanistan to a flight deck repair to shock-and-awe into Iraq, and learns what it means to keep a floating city fed, paid, and moving. Along the way, marriage gets hard, letters arrive that nobody wants, and the only way forward is to do the job and take care of your people. Then the machine gets messy. Recruiting duty delivers real wins and real landmines; a single bad call at MEPS triggers mast and a long climb back. Bahrain proves most of what we’re told about the Middle East is wrong—community thrives, culture is rich, and good messes make space to be human after hours and sharp at quarters. A frigate deployment to South America turns “logistics is leadership” into a survival line; Transcom, chief season, and detailing whiplash reveal how much a phone call and honest context can change a family’s life. In Guam, leadership turns practical: fix DTS where it breaks, push YNs forward, get MAs out of heat stress with proper gear, and reopen Spanish Steps the right way. That’s what sailors remember—problems solved at the point of pain. The ending is the hardest and the most hopeful. BUMED during COVID feels like policy without purpose; a civilian screams; a Senior Chief refuses to be small; and retirement becomes a decision to keep integrity and serve where it counts. He buys a house near home, takes a classroom of tough kids, and discovers the joy of being needed every single day. Threaded through are clear takeaways for any leader: lead from the middle, protect basics (food, rest, dignity), separate mission from ego, respect swim lanes but work the seams, and never forget that every move on a spreadsheet is a move on a family. If you’ve ever wondered whether the machine forgot the human, this conversation will feel like oxygen. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs straight talk, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—we read every word. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text When Gary Wise and Matt Klipfel served together aboard the USS George Washington forward-deployed in Japan, they faced what both describe as the most challenging tour of their military careers. Now, years later, they reconnect to share sea stories, leadership lessons, and the remarkable journey from military service to civilian success. Matt's story begins with joining the Navy at 17, seeking direction after high school. What follows is a compelling narrative of growth, from boot camp through his assignment to the aircraft carrier's damage control division. Working with critical firefighting systems under intense pressure, Matt and his shipmates managed complex inspections, emergency drills, and maintenance challenges with limited manpower. Through their conversation, we witness how these experiences forged resilience and technical expertise that would serve Matt long after his military service ended. The discussion reveals how military relationships evolve into lifelong connections. Matt met his future wife Melissa aboard the George Washington, and together they navigated the transition to civilian life. His path after the Navy led to an unexpected career in water quality monitoring near Lake Tahoe, where he applies the same work ethic and attention to detail that defined his military service. As Matt reflects, "The amount of work we were doing in the Navy is nothing compared to any civilian job ever." For veterans and civilians alike, this conversation offers powerful insights into leadership, resilience, and finding purpose after military service. Gary and Matt discuss the importance of knowing your team, leveraging individual strengths, and maintaining clear communication when stakes are high. Their shared experiences demonstrate how military service creates adaptable professionals capable of thriving in any environment. Ready to hear more sea stories and leadership lessons from veterans who've successfully navigated the military-to-civilian transition? Subscribe now and join our community dedicated to sharing these valuable perspectives. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text From working the frigid loading docks to commanding a warship, Captain Steve Wasson's 26-year naval journey showcases the power of persistence and authentic leadership. In this candid conversation, he opens up about his unconventional path through college, his unexpected entry into naval service, and the defining moments that shaped his leadership philosophy. Wasson shares the raw reality of his early career, including a ship grounding in the Suez Canal just 60 days into his first assignment. Rather than being derailed by this challenge, he demonstrates how facing adversity head-on became the foundation for his future success. His progression from Division Officer to Commanding Officer reveals valuable lessons about leadership, personal growth, and organizational excellence. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is Wasson's refreshingly honest perspective on leadership. He explains how his philosophy of "instilling in others a willingness and desire to follow you" transformed ship culture and performance. His approach of "paying it forward" with his sailors created an environment where people were intrinsically motivated rather than merely compliant – a lesson applicable far beyond military contexts. The discussion also provides fascinating insights into naval operations around the world, from Japan to Bahrain to Guam, including Wasson's role coordinating naval assets during operations against Iran. His consistent desire to serve in challenging overseas assignments reveals a character defined by embracing difficulty rather than avoiding it. As he prepares for retirement and a second career teaching Navy Junior ROTC, Wasson's story reminds us that leadership is fundamentally about relationships and influence rather than position or authority. If you're interested in leadership, military service, or how to navigate career challenges with grace and determination, this conversation offers wisdom that transcends the naval context. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Leadership isn't a position—it's the ability to transform challenges into opportunities and inspire others through authentic action. Dan Martin embodies this truth, tracing his extraordinary evolution from a self-described teenage troublemaker to an accomplished EOD Master Chief whose leadership was tested in the most dangerous environments imaginable. This deeply personal conversation reveals how Martin's rebellious nature—once his greatest liability—became his greatest asset in naval special operations. After joining the Navy as a Radioman in 1995, Martin's path took him through multiple specialties, deployments, and leadership positions across the globe. His candid reflections on his early disciplinary issues, including restriction for breaking curfew during his first deployment, highlight a pivotal realization: the military offered him a path to become someone better, if only he would embrace it. What makes Martin's story particularly powerful is his perspective on leadership development through crisis. During multiple Iraq deployments as an EOD technician, his teams responded to hundreds of improvised explosive device calls—work where mistakes could be fatal. These experiences crystallized his leadership philosophy: "Everything starts and finishes with you." This accountability-centered approach emphasizes that leadership isn't about perfection but about building trust through consistency, admitting mistakes, and continuously improving. Now retired and pursuing seemingly contradictory passions—beekeeping for peace and leadership development through his company SpecOps Solutions Group—Martin offers invaluable insights for anyone in a leadership position. His discussion of how organizations often focus on developing visionary leaders while neglecting to teach managers leadership skills addresses a critical gap in most leadership development programs. Whether you're a veteran navigating the transition to civilian life, a parent trying to connect with teenage children, or a manager seeking to inspire your team, Martin's combat-tested wisdom offers a roadmap to more authentic and effective leadership. Connect with Dan through SpecOps Solutions Group to learn how his unique approach can transform your leadership journey. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Leadership at sea demands resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to grow through adversity. Senior Chief Petty Officer PJ Ernst's 26-year Navy journey showcases this evolution perfectly, from his spontaneous enlistment in 1991 to his retirement as a respected leader in 2017. PJ takes us through the transformative experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy—from the shock of boot camp in Orlando to his first deployment aboard USS Peleliu during the Somalia pullout operation. His candid stories about crossing the equator ceremonies, port visits in Australia where locals paid for sailors' meals in gratitude for WWII service, and the brotherhood formed in engineering spaces paint a vivid picture of Navy life in the 1990s. The conversation shifts to deeper leadership terrain as PJ discusses his growth through various roles, including Command Fitness Leader for over a thousand sailors and 3M Coordinator on multiple platforms. His detailed account of Chief's initiation—occurring while his pregnant wife awaited his return from deployment—illuminates how the Navy's leadership development process creates resilient leaders capable of handling immense pressure. Most compelling are PJ's unvarnished accounts of leadership challenges, including confrontations with difficult commanding officers and the decision to retire after his wife suffered a brain aneurysm. His reflections on maintaining accountability, avoiding single points of failure, and balancing mission and family responsibilities offer universal leadership wisdom applicable beyond military contexts. Whether you're a veteran, active duty service member, or civilian leader, PJ's journey demonstrates how leadership principles forged at sea create unshakable foundations for success in any environment. What leadership lessons will you take from his remarkable story? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What would happen if we stripped away the religious context from Jesus' parables and viewed them purely as leadership lessons? Gary and Chris take us on a fascinating journey through four powerful biblical stories that reveal timeless leadership principles still relevant in today's complex world. Starting with the Good Samaritan, they unpack how this ancient tale challenges our perceptions of who deserves our attention and service. As they explain, true leadership means breaking through artificial boundaries and extending help beyond our comfort zones—something both men have experienced in their military and professional careers. Through personal anecdotes about difficult leadership moments, they demonstrate how showing compassion to those outside our "circle" creates powerful opportunities for impact. The conversation shifts to the Parable of Talents, where they explore accountability, initiative, and the danger of a blame mentality. "Why is it always the boss's fault that you're afraid to try?" Gary asks, highlighting how this parable teaches leaders to maximize opportunities rather than making excuses. Chris adds depth by connecting the story to both spiritual growth and professional development, creating a multi-dimensional understanding of this ancient wisdom. Perhaps most compelling is their examination of the Faithful Servant and Unforgiving Servant parables, which reveal profound truths about consistency and forgiveness in leadership. Through vulnerable stories from their own leadership journeys, both men illustrate how these principles have transformed their approaches to mentoring, accountability, and creating healthy boundaries. Whether you're leading a military unit, classroom, business team, or family, these ancient stories offer practical wisdom for navigating complex human dynamics. This episode will challenge you to examine your leadership motivations and inspire you to lead with greater purpose, compassion, and consistency. The wisdom isn't new—it's been around for millennia—but its application might just revolutionize how you influence others. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does it take to transform adversity into opportunity? Alex Wright's journey from Coast Guard rescue swimmer to Navy deep sea diver reveals the remarkable resilience needed to navigate life's unexpected turns. In this powerful conversation, Wright candidly shares his military odyssey – from his stubborn persistence to join the Coast Guard despite recruiter resistance, to the crushing disappointment of medical separation after an accident. Rather than surrendering to circumstances, Wright pivoted, using his GI Bill to pursue education while searching for his next mission. When opportunity knocked in the form of a chance gym conversation, Wright answered, finding his way back into uniform as a Navy diver. His subsequent career across multiple tours in Guam showcases the adaptability essential for military leadership – particularly during the COVID-19 crisis when he helped coordinate the emergency response for USS Theodore Roosevelt sailors. Perhaps most valuable is Wright's transparent discussion about mental health challenges faced during his service. His decision to prioritize wellbeing over immediate promotion opportunities offers a powerful lesson about sustainable leadership and personal boundaries that resonates far beyond military contexts. Throughout the conversation, Wright distills leadership wisdom applicable to any challenging environment: find what motivates people and remind them of their purpose; balance direction with autonomy; and recognize when personal priorities must shift. His story illuminates how the military develops leaders capable of thriving amid uncertainty while reminding us that true strength often emerges from our most difficult struggles. How might you apply these leadership principles to navigate your own challenges? What unexpected opportunities await if you persist through obstacles with clarity of purpose? https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What truly separates effective leaders from those who merely survive in today's chaotic environment? In this captivating discussion on perseverance and resilience, Gary Wise hosts leadership experts Chris Cahill and Jeremy Moore to unpack the crucial distinction between these complementary qualities. The conversation begins with a fascinating historical detour as Chris shares insights from his recent trip to Rome, illuminating how leadership lessons are woven throughout theological history. This sets the stage for a deep exploration of perseverance as the relentless forward momentum that keeps leaders moving toward their vision, contrasted with resilience as the capacity to recover when knocked down. "Perseverance isn't sexy," notes Gary, highlighting how our culture often celebrates resilience while overlooking the grinding determination required for sustained success. The group examines how overreliance on either quality creates blind spots—too much focus on perseverance leads to burnout, while excessive emphasis on resilience keeps you "rocked by waves" without forward progress. The highlight emerges when they introduce adaptability as the essential third component that balances the equation. Through personal stories from military service, healthcare leadership, and entrepreneurship, they outline a practical four-step framework any leader can implement: assess and align, commit and practice, build support systems, and focus on sustainment. For anyone wrestling with leadership challenges or questioning how to maintain momentum through adversity, this episode offers both philosophical wisdom and actionable strategies. How might your leadership transform if you stopped merely recovering from setbacks and instead developed the perfect balance of perseverance, resilience, and adaptability? Listen now and discover the approach that truly exceptional leaders embody. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text When a teenage clarinet player from Puerto Rico stepped forward to audition for the U.S. Navy Band in 1996, no one could have predicted the remarkable 29-year journey that would follow. Master Chief Luis LeBron's story is one of unexpected opportunities, overcoming language barriers, and finding leadership roles he never sought out. From his first days at boot camp struggling with English to becoming a Command Master Chief, LeBron's path demonstrates how saying "yes" to opportunity can transform a life. His career spans across continents - from Great Lakes to Jacksonville, Naples to Japan, and Hawaii to Millington - each assignment bringing new challenges and growth. What makes LeBron's leadership philosophy unique is his authentic approach. "Take care of what you own, what you can control," he advises, highlighting character and communication as cornerstones of effective leadership. Throughout his career, he discovered that being honest with the people you lead inspires them to follow you. The conversation weaves through professional achievements and personal milestones, including his marriage to Eileen (whom he'd known since age 14) and raising two successful sons while navigating military life's demands. Their relationship, predicted in a shared dream as teenagers, has weathered numerous relocations and deployments. As LeBron approaches retirement, his story provides valuable insights for leaders at all levels. His journey proves that sometimes the best leaders are those who didn't seek leadership positions but instead focused on excellence in their craft and caring for those around them. The surprising path from musician to master chief reveals how service can take us places we never imagined. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text The difference between good organizations and exceptional ones often comes down to a single factor: people taking true ownership of their roles. In this thought-provoking episode, Gary Wise and Jeremy Moore unpack the crucial distinction between basic accountability and genuine ownership, revealing why this shift transforms both individuals and teams. When team members view their responsibilities as "belonging" to them rather than tasks assigned from above, everything changes. But how do leaders facilitate this mindset without sacrificing control? Gary and Jeremy tackle this paradox head-on, exploring how setting clear boundaries actually creates the freedom people need to take ownership. They share personal experiences from military leadership where finding this balance proved essential for mission success. The conversation delves into practical strategies that leaders can implement immediately: establishing two-way communication channels, providing appropriate autonomy, handling inevitable failures constructively, and recognizing wins authentically. You'll discover why trust forms the foundation of ownership culture and how leaders must model the very behaviors they wish to see in their teams. Perhaps most valuable is their candid discussion about the psychology behind ownership—why some people instinctively take ownership while others hesitate, and how leaders can adapt their approach to different personality types. They address the common fears that prevent leaders from delegating meaningful ownership and provide a roadmap for overcoming these barriers. Whether you're leading a military unit, managing a corporate team, or guiding your family, these insights will transform how you think about empowerment. The ownership mindset isn't just about getting better results—though it certainly does that—it's about creating environments where people can find purpose, meaning, and growth in their work. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does it mean to navigate a military career when life throws unexpected challenges your way? Gary sits down with James Thompson, a retired Navy Lieutenant with an unconventional journey that spans from the hallowed halls of MIT to the engine rooms of Navy warships. Thompson's story begins with a strong naval heritage as a fourth-generation sailor who seemed destined for officer ranks through an ROTC scholarship. When family circumstances forced him to withdraw from MIT, he faced a pivotal choice: repay $86,000 in scholarship funds or enlist in the Navy. This decision placed a college-educated young man into the demanding role of machinist mate on an aging steam-powered amphibious ship. Despite this detour, Thompson's natural abilities and academic background propelled him through the ranks at remarkable speed. The conversation reveals how mentorship played a crucial role in his development, particularly during his time at Afloat Training Group San Diego, where he earned the nickname "Six" for achieving Chief Petty Officer rank in just six years. His subsequent selection for the Limited Duty Officer program opened new opportunities on warships like the USS Cape St. George and USS America, where he faced complex engineering challenges and leadership responsibilities. Perhaps most valuable is Thompson's candid discussion about mental health challenges that ultimately led to his medical retirement. His willingness to seek help when needed demonstrates true courage and offers important lessons about resilience and self-awareness. Now thriving in the financial services industry, Thompson shares his "Three T's of Leadership" philosophy that guided his naval career and continues to serve him well in civilian life. Whether you're currently serving, a veteran navigating transition, or simply interested in authentic leadership principles, this conversation offers valuable insights about adapting to changing circumstances while maintaining your core values and purpose. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What does three decades of Navy service really look like? Through typhoons, volcanic evacuations, nuclear disasters, and war deployments, Master Chief Mike Piazza lived a career most can only imagine. From his early days dreaming of Navy service as a 13-year-old in small-town New Jersey to becoming a respected senior enlisted leader on some of the Navy's most powerful vessels, Piazza's journey reveals the extraordinary challenges and profound rewards of military service. Working his way up from Boiler Technician to auxiliary engineering roles across multiple platforms—LSTs, amphibious ships, cruisers, and ultimately aircraft carriers—his story traces both the evolution of a sailor and the transformation of the modern Navy. During our conversation, Mike shares what it was like living through pivotal historical moments: evacuating civilians after the Mount Pinatubo eruption, responding to the 9/11 attacks while stationed overseas, and coordinating emergency operations during the 2011 Fukushima disaster aboard USS George Washington. His firsthand accounts of port-and-starboard watch rotations, Chief Petty Officer initiation, and forward-deployed operations paint a vivid picture of Navy life few civilians ever glimpse. Beyond sea stories, Mike offers timeless leadership wisdom distilled from mentoring countless sailors. His mantra—"Attitude, attitude, attitude"—helped him navigate everything from rigorous inspections to personal challenges. His practical advice on leadership, teamwork, and professional growth applies whether you're manning a warship or leading a corporate team. Whether you're a Navy veteran reconnecting with your heritage, a prospective sailor curious about what service truly entails, or simply someone who appreciates authentic stories of leadership under pressure, Mike's experiences illuminate the human dimension behind military service—where technical expertise meets character, and where ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things through teamwork and resilience. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text Leadership's darkest moments rarely make it into motivational speeches or training manuals. For this former Command Master Chief of Naval Base Guam, what began as a stellar career culminated in a 10-month nightmare that pushed him to the brink. After successfully navigating COVID-19 challenges as the only operating base in the Pacific—receiving awards and recognition for exceptional leadership—everything changed with new regional leadership and a mandated command climate survey. What followed was an investigation that dragged on without transparency, updates, or resolution for nearly a year, all while he continued performing his duties managing barracks, security forces, and the welfare of hundreds of sailors. The psychological toll was devastating. "I would never let this happen to one of my sailors," he reflects, revealing how he considered self-harm while trying to understand why no one would advocate for him. Between losing his father, being placed on medication, and facing expanded investigations for increasingly trivial matters, he found himself isolated in a system that seemed designed to break him rather than resolve legitimate concerns. This raw account exposes the "deep state" of military installations—entrenched civilian employees and senior enlisted who create self-serving ecosystems where politics trumps people. It shows how the JAG Corps can weaponize regulations against individuals rather than seek justice, and how leaders who fail to stand up for their people ultimately fail the entire organization. Have you witnessed similar leadership failures? Are there systems in your organization that allow extended investigations without accountability? Whether in uniform or civilian leadership, this story challenges us to consider how we protect people from becoming casualties of bureaucratic politics and personal vendettas. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/

Send us a text What happens when three military veterans with over 75 years of combined experience tackle one of today's most polarizing topics? In this explosive conversation, Gary Wise, Chris Cahill, and Enrique flip the script on DEI, reframing it as an IED—Inclusion, Equity, Diversity—examining how these concepts can become landmines when mishandled. These battle-tested leaders cut through the noise with practical wisdom that transcends political divides. "If you summarize everything we've said, it goes back to where we started—it's merit-based," says Chris, capturing the essence of their straight-shooting approach. The veterans share raw, unfiltered perspectives from decades of leadership in environments where excellence wasn't optional and lives depended on performance. Rather than dwelling on divisive aspects, they offer a powerful alternative framework: replace Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity with Opportunity, Ability, and Unity. As Gary explains, "I want everybody on my team to know they have a fair opportunity based on their abilities to accomplish whatever is being asked of them." This shift in perspective puts accountability back in focus while acknowledging genuine leadership responsibilities. Whether you're leading a military unit, a corporate team, or a community organization, you'll find actionable insights on creating high-performing teams where standards remain high while everyone gets what they need to succeed. Discover why these veterans believe that with clear communication, proper support, and unwavering standards, we can move beyond divisive rhetoric toward genuine team excellence. https://www.wordsfromthewise.net/