From Airman to Soldier to CEO…Walk the Floor

In this episode of the Acknowledge 2 Action Podcast, I sit down with John Kerkhoff to explore his journey from the Air Force to the Army and into the business world and how his experiences shaped a leadership philosophy rooted in awareness, accountability, and action.John reflects on navigating change, uncertainty, and growth in real time throughout his military career. Those lessons didn’t end with service, they became the foundation for his work as CEO and founder of Frago 22, a veteran-led consultancy that helps bridge the gap between military experience and business value. At Frago 22, John and his team translate veteran-honed skills into strategies that help organizations strengthen leadership, team dynamics, and operational resilience.This conversation goes beyond titles and roles. We dig into the realities of military transition, the mindset required to thrive in civilian leadership, and why accountability starts with self-reflection. As John says, “Your actions will show well before anything you say.” We also unpack the idea of “walking the floor”, a leadership approach centered on presence, engagement, and genuine connection with teams.Whether you’re navigating your own transition, building a team, or striving to lead with greater authenticity, this episode offers practical insight grounded in real experience.Key Themes• Military service and transition from Air Force to Army to post military life• Leadership built on awareness and accountability• The realities of military-to-civilian transition• How veterans’ skills translate to business success• Organizational culture and retention• Why leaders must “walk the floor”Memorable Quotes“Your actions will show well before anything you say.”“Accountability starts internally.”“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”“Make no time for excuses.”About the PodcastThe Acknowledge 2 Action Podcast explores the connection between awareness, ownership, and action. Through conversations with leaders, veterans, entrepreneurs, and professionals across industries, the show focuses on practical insight and lived experience that helps turn awareness into meaningful action.Follow and ConnectSubscribe for more conversations on leadership, transition, and growth — and share this episode with someone who values accountability and leadership grounded in real action.Access to connect with JohnJohn's LinkedIN page- https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kerkhoff-pmp-cplc/Frago 22- https://frago22.com/