Moments in Leadership

Leadership in the Marine Corps is often associated with uncompromising toughness and strict command. But the most impactful leaders learn to balance high standards with genuine empathy, recognizing that an organization’s true strength comes from investing directly in the success of its people. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on the evolution of military culture, and today’s Marines are sharper, highly observant, and deeply focused on purpose and authenticity. In this conversation, LtGen Watson and I dive in to his three-decade career in the United States Marine Corps: from his early days as an ROTC midshipman to commanding the 1st Marine Division and Training and Education Command and explore the critical transition from "tough guy" leadership and the lessons learned from leading through high-visibility commands like 8th & I and the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory. Whether discussing the "reverse Pony Express" mentality of leadership turnover or the duty to stay connected to junior Marines, LtGen Watson emphasizes that a leader's ultimate mandate is to set their people up to win. Today's episode offers a meaningful masterclass in character, humility, and modern military command.

Most people think of a Marine general and picture a lifetime of infantry commands and combat deployments. They'd be right about Dave Bellon but they'd be missing half the story. In this conversation, Lieutenant General Dave Bellon (Ret.) pulls back the curtain on the parts of his career he rarely talks about: switching from JAG officer to infantry lieutenant, back to JAG, and into a capital murder defense case that put him at the center of one of Camp Pendleton's most high-profile court martials defending a Marine convicted of killing a fellow officer in broad daylight. Then there's the story of Task Force Scorpion, a rocket strike that took out a regimental commander within days of his arrival, and a chaplain who cleared the room and gave two majors communion before sending them back to fight. Dave and I have been friends since TBS, and this episode is about what you learn watching someone you've known since they were a lieutenant become a three-star general and what he learned along the way about command, compassion, humility, and what actually matters when the uniform comes off. FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SUPPORT Join the Moments in Leadership Supercast community https://mil.supercast.com/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moments-in-leadership/id1547856712 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1hQl53NzCiJwlWS9xQZFw9 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MomentsinLeadership Official Website https://www.momentsinleadership.com

Leadership is often viewed through the lens of decisiveness. Direct orders and quick thinking. But the most impactful modern leaders are those who prioritize collaboration, and remain present in their leadership roles. I’ve been thinking about the future, and today’s junior Marines are different: researchers, thinkers, and seekers of authenticity. They aren’t afraid to ask the hard questions. In this candid conversation, Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz and I explore why leaders must shift from issuing orders to showing genuine interest and investing in an individual Marine’s life through the "one Marine" theory: how a single individual can turn an entire battalion around. Whether discussing the evolution of "field day" or the weight of addressing mental health and fitness, Carlos emphasizes that the Marine Corps is a tribe that must constantly be taught its ethics, its culture, and its worth. We talked about executive presence, senior enlisted slating, and the "Message to Garcia" mindset. Today’s leadership has a mandate to ensure every Marine whether staying in or transitioning out is prepared for the life that follows their service. Watch the full video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ip9JCSQ7x5U

John Bentivegna didn’t plan to spend 30 years in the military. He joined the Air Force with a simple goal: serve a few years, earn veteran’s preference, and come back to New Jersey to become a firefighter. Instead, that four-year contract turned into a career that eventually led him to become the Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force, the senior enlisted leader of the newest branch of the U.S. military. In this conversation, Bentivegna looks back at the moments that shaped how he leads. The early mistakes. The confidence he had to grow into. The uncomfortable jump from working tactical problems on base to sitting at the table where strategy and national security decisions happen. He also shares the lesson many leaders learn the hard way: the job eventually changes. You stop climbing the ladder yourself and start building it for the people coming behind you. FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SUPPORT Join the Moments in Leadership Supercast community https://mil.supercast.com/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moments-in-leadership/id1547856712 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1hQl53NzCiJwlWS9xQZFw9 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MomentsinLeadership Official Website https://www.momentsinleadership.com

Most leadership conversations center on the person out front. The one giving the orders. The one standing on the stage. I’ve always been fascinated by another side of leadership. The people who make the mission possible long before anyone sees the result. In this conversation, Rear Admiral James McNeal and I talk about a career spent supporting complex missions across the Navy. Logistics rarely grabs headlines, yet every operation depends on it. Ships move, teams deploy, and missions succeed because thousands of details line up exactly when they need to. James shares what decades of service taught him about responsibility, preparation, and the discipline required to lead in roles where success often goes unnoticed. We talk about the mindset of reservists, the trust required across teams, and the kind of leadership that holds an entire system together.

Former Under Secretary of the Navy Vic Minella shares his remarkable 38-year journey from enlisted sailor in rural Mississippi to the Department of the Navy's second-highest civilian position. We discuss how 9/11 rewired his approach to leadership and personal responsibility just three months into his naval intelligence career, what it was like managing dual Pentagon roles during a presidential transition, and the moment he found out about his promotion while sick in bed. Vic offers hard-earned lessons on self-care, delegation, staying in your lane, and why showing up every day with energy and a willingness to contribute is the real recipe for advancement. He closes with a powerful message: take the oath seriously, don't be afraid to make that first step, and find a way to contribute no matter what your job is. As always, thank you to the supporters on Supercast who help keep Moments in Leadership ad-free and sustainable. GUEST BIO LINKS Vic Minella on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-minella/ FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SUPPORT Join the Moments in Leadership Supercast community https://mil.supercast.com/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moments-in-leadership/id1547856712 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1hQl53NzCiJwlWS9xQZFw9 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MomentsinLeadership Official Website https://www.momentsinleadership.com

Lieutenant Colonel retired C. Scott “Sonny” Duncan joins me for one of the more thought-provoking conversations I have hosted on Moments in Leadership. Sonny’s path is anything but typical. He enlisted in the Navy, earned an ROTC scholarship, commissioned as a Naval Officer, transitioned into the Marine Corps, became an F/A 18 pilot, graduated from Top Gun, instructed at NAWDC, and was slated to command an F35 squadron before the COVID mandate brought his career to a crossroads. We cover how he learned to lead through fear, how aviation culture built his approach to performance and accountability, why he and his wife made a values based decision during the mandate, and how he now serves at the senior executive level inside the Department of the Navy. There are hard moments in this episode, and there are leadership lessons that apply across every community. As always, thank you to the supporters on Supercast who help keep Moments in Leadership ad free and sustainable. GUEST BIO LINKS SES Bio, C. Scott “Sonny” Duncan https://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/About/Senior-Executives/Biographies/Duncan,%20C.%20Scott.pdf FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SUPPORT Join the Moments in Leadership Supercast community https://momentsinleadership.supercast.com Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moments-in-leadership/id1553443301 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4x3tDCrWkRikPrKShKeXGf YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@MomentsinLeadership Official Website https://www.momentsinleadership.com

Command Sergeant Major Joanne Naumann, Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Army Special Operations Command, shares hard-earned lessons on humility, trust, and leadership in high-pressure environments. She joins Moments in Leadership for a powerful conversation about what it means to lead when the stakes are highest. Currently serving as the Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) , CSM Naumann has spent nearly three decades guiding and mentoring soldiers in the Army’s most elite formations. From her beginnings as a Voice Language Analyst and Arabic linguist to multiple assignments in Special Mission Units, she brings hard-won insight from fourteen deployments across CENTCOM and AFRICOM. In this episode, she and host David B. Armstrong , retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, explore the mindset that sustains great leaders through long careers of pressure, sacrifice, and accountability. Topics include: Building authentic trust within high-performing teams Balancing empathy with discipline The role of radical candor in developing future leaders How great mentors challenge and shape your growth Why humility remains the cornerstone of elite leadership This conversation offers a rare look inside the human side of senior military leadership — one defined not by bravado, but by the quiet strength of service and self-awareness. Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organization, the lessons in this episode apply to anyone who believes that leadership is about people first. 📬 SUPPORT THE PROJECT & STAY CONNECTED Support Moments in Leadership on Supercast: https://bit.ly/3C8g7Ua Visit the Moments in Leadership website: https://bit.ly/3SA2XHe Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eO4kTi Email: themiloffice@gmail.com If you’ve been listening for a while and want to support the project, consider becoming a Supercast supporter. Your contributions help offset the real costs of production and keep the show ad-free for emerging leaders.

Retired Major General Matt Smith shares candid lessons on leading through combat, crisis response, civil unrest, and personal trials at the highest levels of Army command. In this episode of Moments in Leadership , I sit down with retired Major General Matt Smith, US Army, to reflect on the leadership lessons earned over a three-decade career in uniform. From commanding troops in Afghanistan to steering large organizations through hurricanes, civil unrest, and the COVID-19 pandemic, General Smith’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and character. We discuss the weight of command at scale, the challenges of shifting from tactical to executive leadership, and the cultural differences between active duty and National Guard formations. General Smith also shares raw insights from the Pentagon during crises like Black Lives Matter protests, January 6th, and the early days of COVID, offering a rare look inside the Army’s decision-making under pressure. Later in the conversation, he opens up about the personal strain of being under investigation while still in command — and the moral courage it took to stay focused on his people, his duty, and the institution. His advice on composure, trust, and standards will resonate with leaders across every profession. Finally, we explore his new mission leading the Master in Business for Veterans program at Emory University, helping seasoned enlisted and officers translate their military leadership into business success. Support the Show & Stay Connected: Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website: https://bit.ly/3SA2XHe Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eO4kTi Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

LtCol (Col Sel) Cameron McCoy, Marine veteran, historian, and author of Contested Valor , shares leadership lessons from his service, academic career, and research into race and representation in the Marine Corps. In this episode of Moments in Leadership , host David B. Armstrong sits down with LtCol Cameron McCoy , a Marine veteran, historian, and author of Contested Valor: African American Marines in the Age of Power, Protest, and Tokenism . LtCol McCoy’s journey spans combat deployments, leadership in academia, and a distinguished research career focused on the untold stories of African American Marines. Dave and Cameron first met during a Reserve ITX event and reconnected after Dave read Contested Valor . Their conversation blends personal experience with historical analysis, offering listeners a candid look at leadership in the face of complex issues—including race, representation, and institutional change. What you’ll hear in this episode: How military service shaped LtCol McCoy’s leadership philosophy Leadership lessons from addressing race and representation in the Marine Corps The challenges of researching and telling underrecognized histories The parallels between leading in combat and leading in academia Why adaptability, empathy, and historical perspective matter for leaders today Whether you’re a student of history, a leader in uniform, or someone committed to equity and inclusion, this episode offers practical wisdom and thought-provoking perspectives. Support the Show & Stay Connected: 🎙 Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast 🌐 Visit the Moments in Leadership website: Website 📷 Follow on Instagram: Instagram 📩 Email the show: themiloffice@gmail.com

Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer shares how failure, realism in training, and ruthless self-assessment shaped his leadership journey and what the Army must do now to prepare for tomorrow. In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer joins Moments in Leadership to talk about what it truly takes to lead in today’s military—and why the journey never ends. From his early days as a driven, overconfident PFC to becoming the Army’s senior enlisted leader, SMA Weimer reflects candidly on his own formative moments, including failure during pre-scuba and the lessons that followed. He offers real talk on leadership, humility, building trust with junior leaders, and why “empathy isn’t soft—it’s tactical.” We dive deep into what makes leadership in special operations uniquely difficult, the myth of the “gold-plated lesson,” and the difference between mission command and micromanagement. You’ll hear his take on complacency, the pitfalls of artificial readiness, and what leaders can do—right now—to reclaim white space, raise standards, and forge the kind of disciplined, lethal teams the future demands. This is a must-listen episode for anyone serious about servant leadership, readiness, and building winning teams. Support the Show & Stay Connected: 🎙️ Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast 🌐 Visit the Moments in Leadership website: https://bit.ly/3SA2XHe 📷 Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eO4kTi 📩 Email the show: themiloffice@gmail.com Resources: "Combat Doesn’t Care: How Ready Are You?" By 17th Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael R. Weimer

In this episode, SgtMaj David Wilson, Command Senior Enlisted Leader of II MEF, shares hard-earned leadership lessons from over 30 years in the Marine Corps. From being meritoriously promoted through the ranks to leading Marines in the Battle of Fallujah, SgtMaj Wilson reflects on mentorship, emotional intelligence, and why some combat lessons shouldn't be “gold-plated.” A must-listen for any emerging leader. Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow on Instagram : Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

In this episode, Major General Bill Bowers, Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruiting Command, shares powerful leadership lessons from his time as a young lieutenant to a two-star general, reflecting on mentorship, peer accountability, recruiting challenges, and the evolving responsibilities of military leadership. Welcome to the first Moments in Leadership episode of 2025! This episode marks four years of the podcast , and we’re honored to feature Major General Bill Bowers , Commanding General of Marine Corps Recruiting Command. A longtime friend of host David B. Armstrong , General Bowers reflects on his leadership journey, the critical role of mentorship, and how peer accountability shaped his career from his early days as a young lieutenant to his current role leading Marine Corps recruiting. In this engaging and insightful conversation , General Bowers and Dave discuss: The power of peer accountability and why young leaders need idealism Lessons from early leadership mistakes and the importance of learning from failure How mentorship from senior enlisted leaders can shape careers The challenges of recruiting and retaining the right Marines in today’s environment The role of awards and recognition in motivating Marines How young officers can prepare for command and build lasting relationships General Bowers also shares incredible stories from his time in the field, including a mess night surprise that changed a Marine’s future and how recruiting is more than just numbers—it’s about changing lives . Whether you’re a junior officer, an aspiring leader, or someone interested in the inner workings of Marine Corps leadership, this episode delivers practical leadership lessons, personal anecdotes, and deep insights from one of the Marine Corps’ top generals. Support the Show & Stay Connected: Support the project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website: Website Follow on Instagram: Instagram Email: themiloffice@gmail.com If you found value in this episode, please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify —it only takes a few seconds and helps more listeners discover these important leadership lessons!

Welcome to another powerful episode of Moments in Leadership. In this episode, host Dave Armstrong delves deep into the experiences and insights of our distinguished guest, Fleet Master Chief Dave Isom. Join us as we explore the changing dynamics of leadership in the military, the culture of questioning among junior personnel, and the integral role mentorship plays in shaping great leaders. Fleet Isom shares his journey through the ranks, from his initial service in the regular Navy to his esteemed position in the Navy SEALs, highlighting the unique leadership challenges within SEAL teams. He reflects on the invaluable lessons learned from mentors and discusses the balance between formal authority and personal connection in effective leadership. We also uncover the importance of the Chief's Mess, the impact of diverse career experiences, and practical advice for junior officers and enlisted leaders. Fleet Isom opens up about his career decisions, the significance of taking care of team members, and the essential nature of planning for retirement. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on building a leadership culture that thrives on trust, learning from failure, and fostering a supportive network. Whether you're in the military or seeking leadership insights, Fleet Isom's experiences and advice will leave you inspired and equipped for your own leadership journey. Tune in as we honor the journey of a remarkable leader and explore the defining moments that shaped his career. Welcome to “Humans Are More Important Than Hardware"– let's dive in.

SgtMaj Cuadro is my first female enlisted leader and was a recommendation from several other SgtMajs, so I knew this would be a good one. And it is. Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow on Instagram : Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

This episode is with retired LtCol Isaac G. Lee, call sign Whiskey and the author of Hanger 4, a memoir of a combat aviator and CH53 pilot. I read it cover to cover and passed it along to an active duty infantry Captain and company commander because of the leadership lessons in the book. While I think the book is great for any emerging leader to read, if you are a current Capt and getting ready to promote to Major, I think there are some great perspectives contained in the pages. Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow on Instagram : Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

In this episode, BGen Jackson discusses why leaders don’t always need a bias for action and how the Marine Corps has to go on, so not everyone is going to get what they want. We also dive into mentorship between genders and how leaders at all ranks can learn from her experiences - specifically where she was successful in receiving mentorship in a male dominated organization. Join us for a frank discussion on both active duty and reserve leadership. Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow on Instagram : Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

In this episode of Moments in Leadership, retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant Scott Stalker discusses the lessons learned over his career, including his time in the Defense Intelligence Agency, United States Cyber Command, the National Security Agency, and in his final assignment with United States Space Command. Hear the story of how a MGySgt became a CSEL, a billet normally filled by a SgtMaj and his philosophy on “Best Player”. Additionally, we chat about his time in the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command and Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC). Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow on Instagram : Email: themiloffice@gmail.com

In this episode of Moments in Leadership, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret) MajGen Jim Lukeman and host David B. Armstrong discuss both MajGen Lukeman’s Marine and civilian careers, showing duty does not end after time in uniform is concluded. his life and career, including his time as a Platoon Commander time in 1st Bn 2nd Marines, a Company Commander in Lima 3d Bn 6th Marines, the Battalion Commander of 2nd Bn 5th Marines, and Commanding General 2nd Marine Division. Additionally, we chat about his time as a Marine Officer Instructor at Uni Texas NROTC Unit, the Commanding Officer of Security Battalion, Quantico Virginia, and his current role at the President & CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. His insights on having ‘arrested development’, dealing with burnout, and how to deal with laxes of standards provide useful lessons about how to manage complex organizations and those who help lead those organizations. Reflecting on his early career, MajGen Lukeman recounts his formative experiences as a second lieutenant, emphasizing the profound influence of his platoon sergeant. These early experiences underscored the importance of mentorship and set the foundation for his career. MajGen Lukeman’s journey as an officer instructor and inspector of Marine Security Guards is highlighted by the critical role discipline and adherence to Marine Corps standards play in maintaining excellence, especially in diverse and challenging environments. These positions tested his leadership skills and commitment to the Corps' values, to include relieving almost an entire detachment of Marines. Central to MajGen Lukeman’s narrative is the significance of building strong relationships within the Marine Corps. MajGen Lukeman emphasizes learning from exemplary leaders and mentors can profoundly impact one’s career and personal development. These relationships and the influence of good examples are crucial for growth and success in the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, as MajGen Lukeman explains, is instrumental in preserving the history and traditions of the Marine Corps. Through donations and planned giving, individuals can contribute to the Foundation’s mission, ensuring the legacy of the Marine Corps is maintained for future generations. The upcoming 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps in 2025 is a focal point of celebration, with various events and initiatives planned. The Foundation, in collaboration with the Marine Corps, is working on commemorative projects, including coins, to honor the Corps' enduring legacy and values. The Marine Corps Museum, managed by the Heritage Foundation, stands as a testament to the experiences and milestones of Marines. It serves as a living space where Marines can celebrate their heritage, with the museum providing a unique venue for events, ceremonies, and gatherings. This fosters a sense of pride and camaraderie among Marines, reinforcing their shared history and achievements. MajGen Lukeman’s diverse career path—from infantry roles to embassy duties and officer instruction—showcases the adaptability and flexibility required in the Marine Corps. His ability to learn and excel in various roles highlights the leadership skills and determination he developed throughout his career. This adaptability is a core attribute for any Marine, illustrating the importance of being versatile and resourceful in different assignments. Collaboration and effective communication are also pivotal themes in MajGen Lukeman’s discussion. The Marine Corps relies on strong relationships and partnerships, both within the organization and with other branches of the military and government agencies, to fulfill its mission. These collaborations are essential for maintaining and strengthening the Marine Corps’ operational effectiveness and strategic goals. MajGen Lukeman’s narrative underscores the enduring values of the Marine Corps and the importance of preserving its legacy for future generations. Support this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow us on Instagram : Email us: themiloffice@gmail.com

Please consider supporting this project on Supercast: Moments In Leadership Supercast Want to support the project AND look cool at the gym or when you take your blouse off for a working party? Grab a cool tee shirt here from Mission Essential Gear, where every order supports this project AND donates back to Patrol Base Abbate Relevant Resources What is Moments in Leadership? Moments in Leadership is a podcast where you will hear firsthand about the careers of senior military leaders as they share their unique and individual experiences. Moments in Leadership will immerse you in real-life stories where you will learn about the challenging situations these accomplished leaders faced and discover the lessons they learned early in their careers that were the most influential in developing their overall leadership style. Conceptualized by a group of friends who served together as young officers in the early to mid-1990s sitting around a firepit telling funny leadership stories, Moments in Leadership is designed to provide some relatable context to the formal leadership training leaders of all ranks and services receive throughout their military careers through the power of storytelling. Why Should You Support this project? I realize all of the leaders who listen to the episodes are at different levels of life, and my goal is to be able to have this project remain free and available to anyone who wants it and your donations help go towards that. Your donations go towards offsetting my costs of producing high-quality episodes. Additionally, since this is a part-time hobby project for me, I'm forced to outsource a good deal of work to others to maintain a regular publishing schedule. Your donations help offset these costs as well. Check out my Supercast site and see if any level is a good fit for helping : Connect with Us: Visit the Moments in Leadership website : Follow us on Instagram : Follow us on Twitter : Email us: themiloffice@gmail.com Other Podcasts Interviews with David B. Armstrong Scuttlebutt Podcast EP 38 Former Action Guys Podcast EP 161 Former Action Guys Podcast EP 141 Former Action Guys Podcast EP 60 Former Action Guys Podcast EP 54 About the Host: David B. Armstrong, CFA, is President and Co-Founder of Monument Wealth Management, an independent wealth management firm he started in 2008 in Alexandria, Va. David received his BA from the University of South Carolina in Government & International Relations and his MBA at the University of South Carolina's Moore School of Business in International Finance. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the Navy ROTC program and served on Active Duty in the Marine Corps from 1990-1997 as an Artillery Officer and then received a secondary MOS as a Tank Officer. He re-entered the Selected Marine Corps Reserves in 2003 and served in several billets across the Artillery, Tank, and Light Armored Reconnaissance communities. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in late 2018.