Centurion Lounge Podcast

In this special episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Command Sergeant Major Kissee as she reflects on an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades of dedicated military service, just ahead of her retirement. From her early life and entry into the Army to shaping policy, mentoring Soldiers, and helping lead the force toward greater inclusion, CSM Kissee shares powerful insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose.This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Soldiers.Episode Timeline00:00 Introduction05:31 Leadership Style07:10 Early Life & Background13:42 Early Service & Education18:55 Judge Advocate General Recruitment Experience23:37 Paralegal Warrior Training Course26:44 Growing as a Versatile Enlisted Paralegal31:12 The Most Rewarding Aspects of the Job34:14 The Army’s Path Toward Inclusion38:18 Career Awards & Recognition46:25 Future Policy Considerations50:34 Reflections & Closing RemarksA must-listen episode honoring leadership, service, and a remarkable career.Video by Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge Podcast, we sit down with Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., Staff Operations Training Officer (SOTO) at the 311th ESC, for a powerful conversation on service, leadership, and mindset. With three decades of experience, Mr. Ortiz shares his journey from the Army Reserve to becoming a Department of Defense civilian, offering insight into his day-to-day responsibilities and the lessons learned along the way. He reflects on the lasting influence of his mother’s legacy, the importance of family support, and the core principles that continue to guide his life and service..This episode is a thoughtful discussion on purpose, resilience, and maintaining the right mindset every day..Timestamps:00:00 Introduction05:22 Three Decades of Service18:05 From Army Reserve to DoD Civilian25:43 Day-to-Day Responsibilities35:35 Carrying Forward a Mother’s Legacy43:23 Family Support and Service48:18 Core Principles for Life and Service54:24 Daily Mindset01:01:49 Closing Remarks.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, service, and personal growth.

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Brig. Gen. Sparks, former Commanding General of the 311th ESC, for an open and powerful conversation about leadership, family, service, and the mindset that shapes great Soldiers.From his early motivations to join the Army to the values that guided his command, Brig. Gen. Sparks reflects on character, integrity, and the pursuit of a “Culture of Better.” He shares personal stories about family days, road trips, work-life balance, and the lessons learned over a distinguished career—along with insights on Mojave Falcon 2025 and the future of the force.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction03:20 – The Man Behind the Uniform09:40 – Friday & Sunday Family Days15:39 – The Spark That Led to the Army23:06 – Work-Life Balance31:13 – Military Occupational Specialty35:15 – Family Time & Road Trips40:54 – Mindset, Character & Growth47:49 – Mojave Falcon 202501:04:23 – The Culture of Better01:12:43 – Leading with Law & Integrity01:22:41 – Brig. Gen. Sparks’s Legacy01:25:09 – Closing Remarks & ShoutoutTune in for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptsite)

Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge recaps our conversation with Command Sergeant Major Kristy Hawkins of the 311th ESC. She shares her journey from the Marine Corps to the Army Reserve, the lessons that shaped her leadership, and her perspective on serving soldiers at every stage of their careers. This episode offers a rare look into her path, her purpose, and the mindset behind leading one of the most dynamic sustainment formations in the Army Reserve (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction & Background Story07:39 - Leadership Style Evolution11:05 - Advice on Opportunities15:40 - Life-work balance19:31 - Being a new Grandma 21:45 - Resource Management Challenges29:45 - Support Systems and Family Readiness38:08 - Empowering NCOs41:03 - Planning and Resources48:10 - More on leadership52:14 - Contact Info 53:45 - Future Episodes and Guest Plans01:00:15 - Closing Remarks

In Episode 11 of the Centurion Lounge, the panel examines readiness across mental, spiritual, medical, and personnel areas. 311th ESC Chaplain Yoon leads the discussion with Col. Zschaschel, Command Surgeon for the 79th TSC; Mr. Garcia, 311th Human Resources Officer; and Mrs. Martinez, Suicide Prevention Manager at the 311th ESC..They discuss the importance of medical and dental readiness, break the stigma around mental health, and share personal stories that promote help-seeking. The conversation also looks at how leadership, teamwork, and the battle buddy system foster a culture of resilience, while exploring spirituality, purpose, and the inherent value of every Soldier. Finally, the panel emphasizes new suicide prevention training, the power of empathy, and the vital role of personal connections in supporting each other..(Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction and Panelist Introductions07:39 - Readiness & Its Impact on Soldiers17:23 - Connection and Teamwork25:23 - Fighting Stigma and Behavioral Health Awareness35:14 - Closing Remarks & Personal Reflections45:20 - Commitment to Soldier Well-being

In this episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Col. James G. Osowski, whose journey goes from enlisting as a Private in the Marine Corps to becoming a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. With decades of experience connecting military service and aerospace engineering, Col. Osowski shares a unique perspective shaped by leadership on the front lines of both fields. Tune in as we explore his story of perseverance, innovation, and the lessons learned from a life dedicated to service and ongoing growth. (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste)

Episode 9 of The Centurion Lounge brings you a powerful conversation with Lt. Col. Don Sheppard, Professor of Military Science at UCLA, and Cadet Alex Chavez. Hosted by Capt. Stroud and Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, this episode dives into leadership, service, mentorship, and life in the UCLA ROTC community, providing valuable insights for aspiring officers and anyone interested in ROTC opportunities in the Greater Los Angeles Area. (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction and Guest Backgrounds00:27 - Military Journey and Family Influence02:30 - Path to ROTC and Scholarship Experience06:38 - ROTC Experience and Commissioning10:13 - ROTC Branching and Academic Standards15:44 - Overview of UCLA ROTC Program20:34 - Balancing Training and Fun Activities at UCLA ROTC27:07 - Leadership Philosophy34:35 - Advice for Career Growth and Officer Development38:36 - Rewarding Aspects40:43 - Partnership Between UCLA ROTC and 311th ESC45:09 - Why Choose UCLA ROTC50:23 - UCLA ROTC Community53:42 - LT. Col. Sheppard Family and Personal Life55:46 - Challenges and Rewards of Military Family Life01:01:32 - Acknowledging the Cadre and Civilian Staff 01:03:23 - Legacy and Future Aspirations01:07:09 - Family Support and Background01:08:49 - Closing Remarks and Wrap-up

In Episode 8 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Master Sgt. Felipe Pacheco to explore his journey from Colombia to New York and the experiences that shaped his leadership style. Serving as the G4 DMC NCOIC for the 311th ESC from 2021 to 2025, he played a key role in enhancing logistical operations and readiness. Known for his passion for fitness and dedication to mentoring others, Pacheco reflects on the values that define his legacy and the impact he hopes to carry forward as he moves on to his next assignment (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background02:16 - Early Military Career and Deployments03:47 - Motivation to Join the Army06:36 - Fitness Culture and Mentality in the Army10:09 - Transition from Active Duty to Reserves 11:11 - Family and Relationships15:24 - Family Dynamics and Soldier Relationships20:01 - Fitness Journey and Inspirations22:56 - Fitness Philosophy26:42 - Personal Fitness Routine and Motivation31:09 - Leadership and Fitness Training in the Army32:53 - Challenges and Mindset About Fitness34:50 - Getting Started with Fitness37:40 - Structuring Workouts for Different Fitness Levels45:33 - Running and Physical Training Experiences47:56 - Swimming and Combat Fitness Challenges50:13 - Fitness Competitions and Challenges51:12 - Leadership Style and Communication53:26 - Family Background and Upbringing55:47 - Career Choices and Army Life56:56 - Fitness Goals and Future Aspirations57:51 - Upcoming Assignment59:01 - Commitment and Motivation1:00:04 - Impact of the Army on Life and Legacy1:01:40 - Self-Perception and Humility1:08:04 - Contact Information and Closing Remarks

This episode welcomes the talented 92G teams from the 79th TSC and 311th ESC as they share insights from the Culinary of the Year Competition, discuss the future of Army Food Services, and dive into topics like performance evaluation, team dynamics, and more. 👉 Like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments!.(Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe & Jean-Baptiste).⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & Team Acknowledgment00:35 – Celebrating Competition Success04:37 – Performance Evaluation & Team Dynamics11:56 – Reflections on the Competition Experience25:01 – The Future of Army Food Service30:50 – Culinary of the Year Competition Recap34:56 – Welcoming Chief Luttrell57:33 – How to Join the Culinary of the Year Competition58:22 – Prizes & Recognition1:01:00 – Closing Thoughts & Future Aspirations

The Centurion Lounge panel sat down with Maj. Gen. Del Rosso, commanding general of the 79th TSC, to talk family, movies, leadership, readiness, and the upcoming Operation Mojave Falcon—the largest and most comprehensive training exercise ever conducted by the U.S. Army Reserve.🎙️ Click the link below to watch the full episode on YouTube..(Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) 

We’re honored to welcome Brigadier General Brandi Bryan Peasley—currently serving as Chief of Staff for the U.S. Army Reserve Command, headquartered at Fort Bragg, North Carolina—to this episode of The Centurion Lounge. A West Point graduate, top-tier logistics expert, and one of the most approachable and people-centered leaders in the Army Reserve, Brig. Gen. Peasley brings over three decades of military service, from deployments in Bosnia and Central America to commanding sustainment and training units across the globe. Her journey reflects a career of unwavering commitment, innovation, and servant leadership. Tune in as we explore her insights on service, transformation, and the future of the Army Reserve.(Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste)

Juan C. Valencia is the Nutrition Services Director for Romoland School District and a passionate advocate for school nutrition across Southern California. With over 22 years of leadership in the U.S. Army and more than a decade in food service, including time as a restaurant executive chef, Juan brings a wealth of experience and heart to every plate. Juan Valencia holds a B.S. in Culinary Management and an MBA, and serves as a member at large on the CSNA Public Policy & Legislation Committee. On this episode, we dive into his mission to elevate school meals, empower culinary education, and drive policy that supports students' health and success..(Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste)

In this episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Command Sgt. Maj. Melissa Walker to discuss her extraordinary military journey, from the Navy to the Army Reserve, and through diverse leadership roles in culinary operations, human resources, and equal opportunity. She shares insights on resilience, adapting to change, and balancing service with family. Command Sgt. Maj. Melissa Walker also opens up about the recent passing of her husband, Command Sgt. Maj. Denny J. Walker, reflecting on his legacy as a leader and partner. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a leader who has dedicated her career to supporting soldiers and serving her community through both law enforcement and the United States Army Reserve. .(Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) 

Join us as Captain Jackson, Commander of the 311th ESC HHC, sits down with Captain Stroud and Staff Sergeant Kanangwe. They dive into his Army journey, key lessons learned, the importance of mentorship, taking care of Soldiers, and more. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brig. Gen. Earl Sparks as he shares insights on family, his vision for the future, and his priorities for the 311th ESC