Veteran Led

What if the trust, growth, and future of your team depended on addressing the one issue you’re most afraid to talk about?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry, U.S. Army Veteran and CEO of Berry Law, reveals why leaders must face tough conversations head-on. Drawing lessons from military command structures and his own experience leading teams in business, John explains how silence erodes trust, slows growth, and pushes good people out the door.He shares the story of tolerating incompetence at a key leadership level—and the heavy price paid when no one had the courage to speak up. From the battlefield to the boardroom, the message is the same: leaders must shape the narrative or risk losing it.Key takeaways:Why fear keeps leaders from addressing the obviousThe cost of ignoring incompetence on your teamWhy silence creates more problems than open dialogHow military leadership balances support and open discussionWhy shaping the narrative is every leader’s responsibility

What does it mean to lead with honor after 30 years in the Marine Corps?In this episode of Veteran Led, guest host Trevor Nealy interviews MGySgt Martin Duarte, USMC (Ret.), about the timeless leadership principles he carried from the Corps into civilian life. Now serving as Outreach Coordinator at Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS.org), Duarte shares candid lessons on discipline, integrity, and accountability—plus the life-changing impact of programs like Mobility is Freedom and the Veterans Welding Program.Together, they explore how Veterans can apply military values to business, community, and family—and why leading with honor never ends when the uniform comes off.Key takeaways:How the Marine Corps instills discipline that lasts a lifetimeWhy integrity is the foundation of leadership on and off dutyLessons every business leader can learn from military serviceThe role of accountability in building high-performing teamsHow Veterans can lead with honor in civilian lifeThe impact of Wounded Warriors Family Support programs

What if your paycheck—and job security—depended only on the value you deliver?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry reveals why traditional job security is a myth—and how Veterans are uniquely built for success in a performance-based world.From military expectations to the business world, John shares lessons learned during the 2008 recession, the rise of AI job disruption, and the transformation of Berry Law’s own internal model. It’s a call to action for Veterans and leaders to take ownership of their outcomes, raise their standards, and stay valuable in an economy that rewards performance—not promises.Key takeaways:Why “job security” is outdated in today’s economyWhat the military teaches about results-driven performanceLessons from contingency-based models in law and businessHow Veterans can thrive in a performance-pay systemPreparing for the future of work and AI-driven disruption

When was the last time someone you trusted let you down?Every leader faces betrayal—by a colleague, partner, or even a friend. The test isn't what happens. It's how you respond. In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry shares how he handled leadership betrayal in both military and business settings.Drawing from stories in combat and the courtroom, John explores what to do after trust is broken—how to lead through loss, protect your mindset, and get your mission back on track.This episode is for Veterans, entrepreneurs, and anyone who's ever had to lead after being blindsided.Key takeaways:Why betrayal is part of leadershipWhen to forgive—and when to walk awayHow to protect your team, mindset, and missionTurning pain into purpose without revengeResilience strategies for high-stakes leadership

Can Army supply chains really prepare you to fight cyber threats?In this episode of Veteran Led, CPT Edward Tuorinsky, U.S. Army (Ret.), shares how military problem-solving shaped his journey from leading troops to leading one of the most trusted cybersecurity and compliance firms in the Defense Industrial Base.Ed explains how the Army taught him to lead through uncertainty, improvise under pressure, and protect what matters most. He breaks down the state of government contracting, what businesses need to know about cyber defense, and why Veterans have the skills to thrive in GovCon.You’ll also hear:How Army logistics experience led to a career in cybersecurityThe story of founding DTS and growing it into a leading government contractorKey differences between military and civilian leadershipMentorship, mission focus, and core values in businessWhy Veterans belong in GovCon and cyber defense👉 Who should watch/listen: Veterans considering entrepreneurship, business leaders navigating cybersecurity, and anyone curious about how military service translates into business success.🔗 Learn more about DTS: dothesecurity.com

What would you pay to protect your focus, your family, and your mission?In this episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry tells the true story of a Marine Veteran who wrote a $97,000 check—not to keep fighting a legal battle, but to take control of his peace and focus. It’s a leadership lesson on knowing when to press forward and when to let go.John breaks down how leaders can recognize when a problem is doing more harm than good—and how making the hard call can help you lead stronger.Whether you're a Veteran, entrepreneur, or team leader, this episode will help you think differently about where you spend your time, energy, and focus.Key topics covered:When the cost of holding on is too highLeading under pressure without burning outTactical decision-making for long-term successWhy letting go can protect your missionMental health and stress management for leaders

Ethical leadership isn’t about saying the right things—it’s about setting the standard and living by it.In this episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry explains the difference between values, morals, and ethics—and why leaders must define them clearly for their teams. Drawing from military experience and legal ethics, Berry outlines a tactical approach to building trust, accountability, and alignment in any organization.Learn how to build ethical clarity, create core values that actually mean something, and why empowering your team to say “no” is a sign of real leadership.Whether you’re leading a small business, a legal team, or a Veteran nonprofit, this episode gives you a framework to lead with integrity—and help others do the same.Key topics covered:Why values and ethics are not the sameHow to establish clear, consistent ethical standardsCore values that drive the Berry Law cultureThe leadership power of saying “no”How to build an ethical organization from the ground up

CAPT Mark Fava, USN (Ret.)—Navy Veteran, aviation attorney, and senior Boeing executive—joins Veteran Led to discuss how military precision fuels legal and corporate leadership.From serving as aide to a Navy admiral to managing legal fallout during 9/11 at Delta Air Lines, Fava shares real-world leadership lessons rooted in military discipline. Now a Vice President at Boeing, he explains how Veterans can leverage their training to lead with clarity, make high-stakes decisions, and mentor the next generation.In this episode, host John S. Berry explores how preparation, humility, and mission-focus drive success beyond the uniform—and why those who served are uniquely equipped to thrive in business.Key topics covered:Leadership lessons from being an admiral’s aideCrisis management during 9/11 at DeltaTransitioning military skills into law and businessHow to mentor (and be mentored) effectivelyDecision-making under pressure at Boeing

What does it take to grow a small, underfunded nonprofit into a $4 million-per-year force for veteran support?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Kate McCauley, CEO of Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS), to explore how operational clarity, disciplined leadership, and heartfelt dedication can scale a mission—without losing the soul behind it.Based in Omaha, Nebraska, WWFS was founded over two decades ago by retired Marine Colonel John Folsom. What began with passing the hat in a military unit has grown into a nationally respected organization supporting severely wounded veterans and their families. Kate shares the powerful origin story, the strategic pivots that led to explosive growth, and how they’ve maintained a 100% transparency rating while keeping overhead low and impact high.This episode unpacks WWFS’s flagship program, Mobility is Freedom, which equips catastrophically wounded veterans with adaptive vehicles that preserve independence and prevent isolation. Kate reveals how the program combats veteran suicide and why aging veterans—many missing multiple limbs—face overwhelming financial barriers to mobility.From food insecurity to caregiver burnout, WWFS doesn’t stop at veteran care—they provide respite programs, home assistance, and direct family support, including for children and secondary caregivers.Key themes include:🔑 How small nonprofits can scale without losing control💡 The dangers of overpromising (and how to stay mission-aligned)🔎 Why transparency, not branding, wins long-term donor trust📈 Lessons in leadership, CRM systems, and fundraising in a noisy marketKate also offers tactical advice for veterans looking to give back or start a nonprofit: be mission-focused, start at the bottom, and partner with others who share your values. She emphasizes that growth isn’t about ego—it’s about helping more people.Whether you're a nonprofit leader, veteran entrepreneur, or supporter of military families, this episode will challenge you to think bigger—and do better.📍 Learn more or donate at wwfs.org

What if the biggest challenge men face today isn’t weakness—but noise?In this compelling episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry welcomes John Krotec, a U.S. Army veteran, speaker, and founder of NeoMasculinity Solutions. Together, they explore the dangers of modern misinformation, the collapse of authentic leadership, and how stoicism, silence, and clarity are becoming critical tools for navigating a world drowning in chaos.Krotec introduces the Sentinel Mindset—a model of masculine leadership built on awareness, accountability, and emotional discipline. According to Krotec, today’s leaders aren’t just fighting external threats—they're battling a sea of disinformation, social noise, and internal confusion. From AI-generated “truths” to performative social media, Krotec challenges listeners to reject distractions and instead live with conviction, authenticity, and purpose.The episode dives into actionable frameworks for emotional self-control, including:🛑 The importance of silence when triggered🧠 How to filter information for value over volume🫱 Why emotional reactions erode leadership credibility🧭 The Sentinel's duty to lead with intuition, clarity, and courageBerry and Krotec also reflect on personal failures, courtroom lessons, and the significance of choosing to pause rather than explode. This episode is an essential listen for veterans, fathers, business leaders, or anyone looking to lead with integrity in a noisy world.💡 Want to protect your headspace, command your energy, and earn trust as a leader? Tune in.🔗 Learn more: johntkrotec.com or neomasculinity.solutions

What does it really mean to be a cowboy—and can horsemanship heal the human soul?In this gripping episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry rides into the heart of Texas to meet Lane Robison, Program Director of Camp Cowboy, a powerful 90-day program that uses horses, sweat, and soul-searching to help veterans, active-duty military, and first responders rediscover purpose, rebuild communication, and reconnect with their families.Lane, a second-generation horseman who took over the reins from his father, shares how breaking horses mirrors the process of helping humans overcome trauma and reclaim their lives. With roots that trace back to legendary rodeo champion Larry Mahan, Lane’s approach combines traditional horsemanship with emotional intelligence, consistency, and one foundational principle: unconditional love.Camp Cowboy is more than a riding school—it’s an immersive leadership experience. From groundwork and stall care to energy control and nonverbal communication, students don’t just learn to ride—they learn to lead. The horses act as emotional mirrors, teaching veterans how to calm their inner storms and engage with the world again.Lane opens up about the emotional breakthroughs he’s witnessed in the round pen—where hardened warriors reconnect with themselves for the first time in years—and the transformation of entire families who participate together, creating a level playing field for mutual growth. Whether it’s a veteran and their child learning side by side, or a former service member finding their voice again, Camp Cowboy offers an unmatched opportunity for healing.This episode also dives into the free online curriculum of Camp Cowboy University, which includes 250+ courses from graphic design to workplace communication, all designed to support veterans on their next mission in life.Listen to discover:Why horses are powerful teachers for those coping with PTSD and anxietyThe real cost (and value) of running a free veteran programHow Camp Cowboy builds lasting community through mentorship and reintegrationStories of personal growth, discipline, and family connectionWhat it means to “make a difference every day”For anyone searching for connection, peace, or a new sense of purpose after military service, this episode is a must-listen.📍 Learn more or donate: campcowboy.org

In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with veteran, entrepreneur, and Camp Cowboy founder LTC (Ret.) Scott Robison for a candid and insightful conversation on initiative, leadership, and how to build trust in business and in life.Scott shares how a joke about stolen valor turned into a hard lesson about assumptions and recognition — and how it led to being honored with a Navy Achievement Medal by a stunned general. But this episode goes beyond military stories. It’s about what happens when veterans step back into civilian life and are ready to build again — only this time, from the ground up.Scott's philosophy is simple and powerful: show up in person, look people in the eye, and ask for what you want. In a world driven by digital resumes and impersonal job boards, Scott offers timeless advice that works even better today — initiative and authenticity are irreplaceable.He also opens up about life on the ranch and how he's been able to blend purpose with peace, running multiple ventures from a guesthouse while helping veterans reset their lives through Camp Cowboy. Whether he's offering temporary work, mentorship, or simply a place to breathe, Scott embodies the idea that leadership is service.In this episode, you'll hear:The surprising truth behind military assumptions and real-world credibilityWhy showing up in person still beats sending in a resumeHow relationships — not résumés — drive business and opportunityWhat real trust looks like, and how it's built over time and actionWhy “Make a Difference Every Day” isn't just a motto, it's a missionScott doesn’t just talk leadership — he lives it daily, helping other veterans transition, heal, and rebuild. His example is a reminder that the most powerful leadership isn't loud or flashy. It’s in the small things: a conversation, a connection, a challenge met with clarity.If you're a veteran looking to reconnect with your sense of purpose, or a leader trying to create more meaningful relationships in your organization, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry sits down with MG (Ret.) Dusty Shultz, a trailblazing Army officer who’s redefining what leadership looks like after service. From director of intelligence at SOUTHCOM to her current mission advising companies and empowering teams, Dusty brings clarity, compassion, and candor to every conversation.With more than three decades in uniform—and a transition plan that started three years before retirement—Dusty offers hard-earned wisdom on navigating change with intention. She shares what it means to lead without ego, build trust at speed, and stay mission-focused even when the mission shifts.Together, John and Dusty explore the realities of senior leadership, the toll of transition, and the urgent need to prepare for life beyond the rank. She also opens up about losing a fellow general officer to suicide—and how that loss reshaped her purpose moving forward.Whether you're preparing to separate, leading in uncertain terrain, or simply looking for a new perspective on resilience, this episode delivers insight, heart, and a powerful reminder: your service isn't over—it’s evolving.

“I started living for what I can do—not what I can’t do.” — Richard KaufmanIn this powerful episode of Veteran Led, host John S. Berry welcomes Richard Kaufman—Army Veteran, best-selling author, and host of the Vertical Momentum Resiliency podcast—known nationwide as The Comeback Coach. From addiction and homelessness to blindness and recovery, Richard’s incredible journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.Discover how Richard:Survived trauma, addiction, and vision lossGot back into the military after a bad conduct dischargeLaunched a top-ranked podcast with 3M+ downloadsBuilt a brand empowering Veterans, entrepreneurs, and comeback storiesLives life fully—working 6 months a year and inspiring others daily🎧 Listen to learn:5 steps to podcast success from The Podcasting BlueprintLife lessons from A Hero’s Journey: From Darkness to LightWhy every setback can become your setup for a comeback#VeteranLed #RichardKaufman #ComebackCoach #VeteranPodcast #VeteranLeadership #AddictionRecovery #BlindVeteran #Resilience #MilitaryLeadership #PodcastSuccess #VerticalMomentum #AHerosJourney

In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with actor and producer Matthew Marsden, known for his roles in Black Hawk Down, Rambo, and Transformers. Though not a Veteran himself, Marsden has become a passionate advocate for the military community through his work on and off the screen.Marsden shares how his experience training with Army Rangers for Black Hawk Down fundamentally shaped his respect for service members and inspired a lifelong commitment to telling authentic Veteran stories. He discusses the importance of accuracy in military portrayals, his personal connections with Veterans, and the motivation behind his film I Am That Man—a movie created with direct feedback from Veterans to ensure realism.From taking pride in uniform details to pushing back on Hollywood inaccuracies, Marsden explains why getting it right matters. He also opens up about leadership on set, lessons learned from Michael Caine, and why he believes Veterans make outstanding actors and filmmakers.Whether you're a Veteran, an aspiring actor, or someone who believes in honoring service through story, this episode is packed with insight, authenticity, and appreciation for those who’ve served.