The Soldier Who Became Florida’s Lieutenant Governor

When life knocks you down, do you get up and fight — or give in?Florida’s Lieutenant Governor, Jay Collins is a former Green Beret, amputee, and decorated veteran whose life story defines grit, service, and purpose.From growing up on a small family farm to surviving life-altering injuries in Afghanistan, Jay shares how faith, family, and resilience shaped his journey from soldier to statesman, serving as second-in-command of one of America’s most influential states. He opens up about losing his leg, rebuilding his life, and proving that anything valuable in life isn’t given — it’s earned. Could a future run for Governor be on the horizon?What you'll learn in this episode of Common Denominator: - The mindset that carried Jay through combat and loss- Lessons in resilience, leadership, and faith- The meaning of service and sacrifice- How to raise the next generation with purpose and accountability- The importance of community, family, and freedomLike this episode? Leave a review here: https://ratethispodcast.com/commondenominatorLearn more about Lt. Gov. Jay Collins: https://www.flgov.com/eog/leadership/people/jay-collinshttps://www.senatorjaycollins.com/@jaycollinsfl https://www.instagram.com/jaycollinsfl🎙️ About Common Denominator:Hosted by entrepreneur and philanthropist Moshe Popack, Common Denominator is where extraordinary people share the universal values that make us all human — perseverance, kindness, curiosity, and courage.Website: https://moshepopack.com/podcast/YouTube: @mpopackInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpopackFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoshePopackNewsletter: https://moshepopack.com/newsletter/Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & initial thoughts01:03 – Jay Collins’ path to Lieutenant Governor02:13 – Growing up on a family farm & early life lessons04:25 – Military service: Korea, Colorado, California & RAF Molesworth06:30 – Surviving combat & amputations, returning to active duty08:53 – Requalifying as a Green Beret: lessons in perseverance13:49 – Leadership priorities: faith, family, freedom15:42 – Veterans & government accountability21:35 – The role of family & community support22:15 – Transitioning to Florida & nonprofit work29:22 – Leading during crisis: Israeli evacuations30:50 – Economy, insurance & property tax priorities34:49 – Education: tailored solutions & critical thinking36:36 – Gratitude, resilience & lessons for all