Kishla Askins on Service, Leadership, and Running for Congress

What does 30 years of service in uniform teach you about leadership — and how does that shape the decision to run for Congress?In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry speaks with Kishla Askins, a Navy Veteran who served 30 years as a Physician Associate, including extensive service with the Marine Corps. A Mustang who began her career enlisted and rose to senior leadership roles at the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs, Kishla shares how her journey from corpsman to senior executive shaped her perspective on service and governance.The conversation explores combat medicine, the burden of command, leadership in large bureaucracies, and the importance of listening before leading. Kishla discusses her time writing legislation in the U.S. Senate, serving as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the VA, and why she believes Veterans bring a critical lens to public service.From battlefield triage to policy reform, this episode highlights how purpose, humility, and constitutional stewardship continue long after the uniform comes off.Guest Links:Kishla Askins for CongressLearn more at ptsdlawyers.com