Journeys Through Leadership

I am thrilled to announce that the final episode for season 3 is available for streaming!In this finale, I have the privilege of sharing the extraordinary journey of Maj Tuan Truong, an officer and a gentleman!  From humble beginnings in a clay house to a successful career in the Air National Guard, Tuan's story is one of grit, resilience, and unwavering dedication.Join us as we uncover the remarkable twists and turn that have shaped Tuan's journey, from childhood dreams to military excellence.  His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams with passion and determination.#Grit#Resiliency#Attitude

Exciting news!  I am honored to spotlight an extraordinary Air Force member who embodies resilience, strength, and positivity.  In this episode Lt Col Elizabeth Goebel (Ely) has shown unwavering resilience, strength, and a remarkable positive attitude despite facing immense challenges during her journey.  Through this journey, she not only inspired those around her but also reminds us of the importance of embracing family and love in every aspect of life.  Let's celebrate the power of love and resilience together.  Listen to Ely and share her message with others!#PositivityLoveStrengthFamily

In this episode of JTL podcast we explore the intersection of leadership, family, and service.  Today's episode features a dynamic duo: Christopher is a retired Air Force veteran who continues to serve and his equally inspiring and energetic partner Sandy.  Both radiate positive attitudes and outlooks, embodying the values of leadership, dedication, and the importance of family.  So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be inspired as we delve into their journey and glean valuable insights along the way.#FamilyIsLife

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Joleah Samaripa-Lopez whose passion for volunteering has not only transformed her own life but is also toughing the lives of countless others.  Joleah has found her passion for volunteering at a young age and has found fulfillment in making a positive impact in her community.Through her volunteer work, Joleah witnessed firsthand the power of collective action and the profound impact that even small acts of kindness can have on individuals and communities.  Whether it is mentoring at-risk-youth or organizing fundraisers, Joleah's efforts are driven by a deep-seated desire to give back and make a difference in the world.Join us as we celebrate Joleah's inspiring journey of service and dedication, a testament to the transformative power of volunteering and the profound impact that one individual can make when they choose to live with purpose and compassion.

In this special episode of "Family Foundations", we pay tribute to a member of Air National Guard Command Chief Team 13, MSgt Brandon King.  A former OTS Military Training Instructor who attributes his strength, values, and discipline to the unwavering guidance of his mother, Ms. Theresa.  Join us as we delve into the heartwarming journey of a person shaped by maternal love, and discover the profound impact a mother's influence has on the character of a military professional.#FamilyFoundations

In this powerful episode, I sit down with TSgt Emilio Bermonty, a true testament to resilience.  He shares his harrowing journey of surviving a devastating hurricane to becoming a valued member of the Air National Guard.  But this story isn't just about one man's story; it's about the unwavering support of his incredible wife, Angelica, who stands firmly by his side through any and every thing!I hope you enjoy the gripping narrative of Emilio's strength, the challenges he faced, and the remarkable love and determination of his wife, Angelica.This episode is a tribute to the courage of our military heroes and the resilience of the human spirit.  Tune in to be inspired by a tale of leadership, love, and unwavering support that will leave you in awe.

Exciting News!  This episode features our first member from 1st Air Force, SMSgt Alejandro Velez.Senior Velez is a remarkable individual whose journey embodies the essence of resilience.  From overcoming challenges to achieving remarkable feats, his story is an inspiration to us all.  Get ready to be inspired and empowered by his incredible journey of perseverance and triumph.  Stay tuned for an episode filled with lessons, insights, and a whole lot of motivation! 

Chief Richardson welcomes Colonel Paul Bishop, commander of the Eastern Air Defense Sector in Rome, New York. Col. Bishop explains his path to leadership, beginning as an enlisted Airmen to 35 years later as the commander.Chief and the colonel discuss leadership styles, and the importance of care, competency, consistency and kindness, why leaders need to hold Airmen accountable and how that leads to an organization that can healthily express emotion. Col. Bishop ends with his words of advice- be good to each other and always stay in the hunt. 

Chief Richardson kicks off season 3 with the first married couple on the podcast.MSgt Matthew Gleason is a member of the 109th Airlift Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron and his wife, Joni is the founder and CEO of a non-profit that pairs shelter dogs with veterans and first responders and provides a free guided training program for PTSD and mobility service dogs. The couple discusses what life is like as a military family and how they support each other, advice they would give others and what lies in the future for them both.

The journey continues...

Chief Richardson recounts the guests he had during season 2.Season 3 coming soon!

In the final episode of season 2, Chief Richardson travels to the 106th Rescue Wing to interview PJ Samuel Roda.The two talk about his journey to becoming a PJ and how surrounding yourself with motivated, high achieving people can help you live up to what they believe you can be.The two also discuss the importance of prioritizing family and Roda shares his thoughts that there are always a lot of opportunities, the hard part is deciding what you want- that you can do anything you want if you decide the sacrifice is worth it.

Senior Amn Karlie Foster, a member of the Civil Support Team based at the 109th, joins Chief Richardson to talk about being the top graduate from basic training, how crucial it is to set goals an advice she gives to other Airmen looking to succeed (hint- it includes setting goals and finding mentors!)

Chief welcomes MSgt "Oz" to the podcast from the 107th Attack Wing, Niagara, New York. They discuss the value of experience and friendship and how the Guard becomes family over time, the challenge of taking care of your people by asking for help and opinions and being open to them.Why it is important to adapt, adjust and find the good in things even when they don't always work out.Stay tuned for the end when Chief gets asked a couple of questions- including his top three book recommendations that he thinks benefit people the most.

Failure is not failing.This is what Tony German wants others to understand.  Chief welcomes his first retiree to the podcast, former Adjutant General for New York State, Major General (Ret.) Tony German.German gives his background, including his failures that led him to the where he is today. Chief and the retired general also discuss the difference between hearing and listening, mentoring and lecturing- and having the confidence in your leadership ability to change  and adapt without sacrificing your standards.Also, the importance of being able to do the things you ask others to do and to take the time being happy in the job you are doing before trying to move on to something else.The two also discuss book recommendations.Tony German spent 36 years in the military and spent many of his years at the 109th Airlift Wing as a navigator and commander before leading the entire New York National Guard.

Chief Richardson welcomes SSgt Jessica Cruz, N.Y.  ANG  Airman of the Year for 2022 and Air Transportation Specialist at the 109th Airlift Wing.The pair discuss how to thrive when you have a big personality and the importance that your reputation can have.  She also talks about why she never gives up- even when she knows she might fail. 

In this episode, Chief Richardson travels to the 174th Attack Wing Syracuse, New York to talk with SMSgt Christine Wiesen, the Host Aviation Resource Manager for the unit. The pair discuss football (Wiesen used to play woman's tackle football!) what is a Chiweenie!? How Wiesen came to be in the Air Guard after serving on Active Duty, some book recommendations, what enlisted troops need from leaders (listening and no judgements) and why everyone should make an effort to know their people and make sure they feel heard. 

Chief travels to the 106th Rescue Wing in Long Island to interview TSgt Jacquelyn Fisher, a Communications Specialist who works full-time on State Active Duty.The pair discuss future plans, rumor control, the importance of family support and resources when serving as a single parent, learning to say "yes" and move beyond your comfort zone and bucket list items!

Chief travels to the 107th Attack Wing, Niagara, New York to interview A1C Harry Hartman. Hartman is currently a Security Forces Airman who just returned from a deployment in Africa.  He has been selected to be a RPA pilot.The two discuss why first impressions matter and how  followership and having a character is fundamental to success.