Simsation Nation

In the season finale of Simsation Nation, the host, and guest, Colonel Joe Clancy, discuss the application of the yoke and rudder in leadership. They draw parallels between the tools used in flying a plane and the skills required in leadership. The yoke, which controls the aircraft's pitch and yaw, is likened to the ability to make immediate corrections in leadership. The rudder, which controls the aircraft's yaw, is compared to the need for subtle adjustments in leadership. They also explored the balance between leading from the front and from the rear, the importance of managing people and the mission, and the role of the crew in providing feedback. The conversation concluded with discussions on the roles and responsibilities of a commander and a director of operations, the importance of leadership and followership, and the importance of balance and control in leadership.

In this episode of Simsation Nation, Simsation and his guest, Lieutenant Colonel Gilberto Perez, discuss the importance of journey over destination. Lieutenant Colonel Perez, the commander of the 502nd Communications Squadron, shares his personal journey, including his family life, his passion for service, and his pursuit of a doctorate in education. He emphasizes the importance of being a good person, being present in the moment, and understanding one's history. The conversation also touches on the significance of education, as Perez's grandfather only had a 3rd-grade education but wanted to go to school. Simsation and Gilberto discussed the best and worst parts of their journeys. Gilberto emphasized the importance of people in his journey, highlighting the impact of mentors, coaches, and family members. He also shared that the worst part of his journey was the growing pains of learning and making mistakes for the first time in various aspects of his life, such as marriage, fatherhood, and leadership roles. Simsation agreed, noting the importance of humanizing oneself and learning from mistakes.

In this episode, Lt Col Michael Newson discusses how he feels after successfully completing a Squadron Command tour. He offers advice via the 5 R's. 1. Relax. 2. Relinquish. 3. Review. 4. Reset. 5. Restart. This is for you if you are going into command, currently in command, or finishing a command tour.

Want to create healthier digital habits? This week I offer 8 tips to help you control the urge to check those pesky notifications. 1. Improved Focus and Productivity 2. Enhanced Mental Health 3. Better Sleep Quality 4. Improved Relationships and Social Connections 5. Better Emotional Regulation 6. Boosted Creativity and Problem-Solving 7. Increased Autonomy and Control 8. Healthier Digital Habits By limiting your interaction with notifications, you can significantly enhance your quality of life, mental clarity, and relationships while boosting productivity and well-being. Learn more on this week's episode.

In this episode, I discuss the power of the word "NO". If you have trouble saying no, this episode is for you. I will teach you the importance of saying no and how it can help you reclaim your time.

In this episode, the host of Simsation Nation allowed his wife to take over as host for an episode to be interviewed about his new book. "It Takes H.E.A.R.T!" by Henry L. Sims Jr. is a self-help memoir and personal development book that uses the H.E.A.R.T. acronym to outline key principles for impactful living. The acronym stands for: Hard work Education Adaptability Resiliency Time What you are going to read will make you smile, laugh, wonder, and cry. I guarantee you. Order your copy here: https://a.co/d/9bEMQKH

Simsation Nation is back! To kick us off, Brig Gen Novotny was asked the following questions: - Tell us a little about your background and current role/responsibility. - Could you give us your own definition of A.I.? - Do you believe A.I. has the power to make the world better? If so, how? - Why do you believe A.I. makes some people fearful? - Does A.I. infringe upon the job market? - Can A.I. fill manning gaps in the workforce? - In what ways do you believe A.I. can help the military? - I believe that with every technological advancement comes an equal or greater vulnerability. Do you agree or disagree? - Are there any final thoughts you’d like to leave the audience? Welcome back to a whole new season!

Season finale!!! In this episode, I thanked the listeners, viewers, guests, and behind-the-scenes team that helped make Simsation Nation what it is today. If you have been involved with this podcast in any form or fashion, THANK YOU! I also took an opportunity to recap the great episodes recorded this season. Please take a few minutes to watch/listen so you can determine the best episode for you. See you next season!

In this episode, Micah Poulson shares how he overcame life challenges to become a lawyer. He advises all to work hard, pursue their dreams, and never give up! He shared his life journey and was asked to answer the following questions: Why did you want to become a lawyer? Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a lawyer. Are you happy with the decision? What are your goals within the legal system? Talk to me about quid pro quo regarding the legal system. Prosecutors versus defense. Innocent or guilty vs best storytelling. Advice for others who may want to become a lawyer, seeking a good lawyer. Watch this episode for a feel-good success story.

In my O'Jay's voice, "Money, Money, Money, Mooooney....MONneyyy"!!! In this episode, we sat down with Marcus Smith (a financial expert) to help us understand the best way to become financially sound. He highlights the balance between spending and investing to ensure you are set up for future success. Investing money is not a new concept so he mentions how it dates back to biblical times. To help unpack this topic he was asked the following questions: Would you consider yourself a financial expert? What is the most common financial pitfall? How does one balance the work hard, play hard mentality with smart investments? What is the best way to gain financial stability: stocks, real estate, savings? How much should a person put away each week/month? Any advice for couples who may have conflicting financial philosophies? What is the best way to get out of debt? Any final advice? If you want to get your money right, invest your time in watching or listening to this podcast.

In this episode, Dr. Sean Hoggs shares what it means to own your failures. He is an accomplished and productive member of society who teaches us the difference between hard failures and soft failures. As a successful author, leader, mentor, veteran (officer and enlisted), educator, radio personality, speaker, activist, husband, father, grandfather, etc. he is more than qualified to educate us on how failures can propel us to success. He was asked to answer the following questions: How do you define failures? Should we own our failures or simply move on past them? Elaborate… Can you recall your biggest failure? Did you own it? How did you overcome it? Did it make you better? What advice do you have to help others overcome failures? You can find his book at the link below. The Bastard Child: A Story of Hope, Resiliency and Perseverance. https://a.co/d/7ebaO0C Watch, listen, learn, share, like, subscribe!

Thinking about retiring? In the process of retiring? Recently retired? Retired for a while? This episode is for you!!! Col Marc Packer, USAF Retired, provides his perspective on ways to help with this transition. He was asked the following questions: Are you enjoying life post-military? If so, what do you enjoy the most? On a scale of 1-10, how hard was the transition? What was hard/easy about it? What is the best way to prepare for the transition? Do you miss the military? What do you miss the most? Any regrets? Joining, staying in too long, not staying in long enough? How does one know when it is time to start the next chapter? What advice do you have for those soon to transition, transitioning or already transitioned? Please take advantage of this opportunity to hear some great advice from s great leader.

Charito Corvin shares her experience with the Career Intermission Program in this episode. She shared the pros and cons of stepping away from the job and advised those looking to find the right time to pause. She answered the following questions: Regarding work, what does it mean to you when you hear “it’s okay to take a knee”? Taking a knee (reactive) vs. taking a strategic pause (proactive) What is the Career Intermission Program (CIP)? What are some of the pros and cons of CIP? How long did you take off? What did you do during that time? Looking back, what was the worst part of taking a knee? Would you recommend CIP or something similar to others? Any closing thoughts or advice about taking a knee, a strategic pause, or CIP? This is an episode that civilians and military members don't want to miss.

I know Dr. Seuss' One Fish, Two Fish comes to mind when you read the title. However, in this case, we are talking about leadership in various environments. Chief Walkes was asked the following questions: What do you think when you hear the phrase “Big Fish in a Little Pond” Would you rather be a: 1. Big Fish in a Little Pond 2. Little Fish in a Little Pond 3. Big Fish in a Big Pond 4. Little Fish in a Big Pond Why did you choose that option? Throughout your career have you found yourself in any of those phases? How did you transition to another phase? Are there pros and cons to each? Advice for others? Be sure to watch this episode if you want to know the difference or want to determine what situation you are in.

In this episode, Dan displayed leadership by being vulnerable enough to share his story of perseverance. He has overcome the challenges of life and is here smiling today to help others. He was asked the following questions: Tell us a little about your history and current role/responsibility What does it mean to persevere? What have you persevered? How did you do it? How would you have turned out without your trials and tribulations? Are you happy with where you are? What advice do you have for those enduring difficulty and looking for ways to persevere? Any closing thoughts?

Atlas Aultman has experience in war zones, Special Ops, and the White House and he tells me how they all shaped him. Additional questions he answered: Your given name is Joshua, how did you get to be called Atlus? How did you become so passionate about amplifying winning leadership? Looks like you are a #1 best-selling author x13, how many books have you written? What are the concepts of your books? I recently watched your TEDx called “Start with Who”...It’s not only a tribute to your parents, it’s your life’s lessons rolled into 13 minutes. Talked to me about that. You have a business called Leaders-KIT.com. What is that about? https://leaders-kit.com/about What are your ultimate goals? Advice for leaders that want to win and be effective? Any advice for aspiring book writers or TEDx enthusiasts? Want my latest book? *** “RULE OF 3 - How elite leaders win” is only 99 cents on Kindle right now in celebration of hitting #1 in twelve (12) Bestseller categories on Amazon to include Leadership, Management, Motivation, Memoirs, Personal Transformation, etc. Want my TEDx talk? *** “Start with WHO” my talk given at TEDx SouthLakeTahoe, was just dropped on TEDs 40-million-strong subscribers channel - google “Atlas TEDX talk” and you’ll see the title “Start with WHO…” Want my KIDS leadership books? *** “Fox in the box” was recently translated into Spanish! It is sure to join “The Boxing Fox, The Fox in the Talks, and The Fox in the Lies” on the worldwide bestseller lists when it drops soon - if you want it 1st, let me know.

Season finale!!! Brig Gen Joy Kaczor is closing out this season AND this YEAR. As you head into 2024, reflect on this past year and ask yourself what benches are you still guarding that you need to let go of?During this epic episode, we discussed: - The guarded bench- The importance of buy-in and building intent collectively- The need to provide clear guidance - Discerning specific vs loose guidance - Knowing your people- Why you can never tell her, "That’s how we have always done it"- Leading organizational change - Her personal story about the "petting zoo"....animals versus equipment - Importance of communication - The importance of asking questions and/or being inquisitive in an acceptable way This is one you don't want to miss!!!

In this episode, we sat down with Myles Davis, an artist who has a passion for drawing. During our talk, we discussed: - How he developed his love for drawing - Differences between traditional and more modern art - Some of his earlier drawings and how his skills have been sharpened - How he uses art in his day job - How drawing makes him feel and what it does for his peace - Why he chooses not to sell his art - Advice for those looking to get started with drawing Please sit back and appreciate this art!

Time is money!!! In this episode, we sat down with the man, the myth himself Col/Dr. Gumbo Coughlin to help us with time management. We were able to discuss: How he manages 9 children, a spouse, a military career, professional education, personal development, community involvement, podcasting, writing books, teaching grad school, and so much more! He is the king of time management!!! - How he defines time management - What priority management is and how it ties into time management - Work/life balance...how to allocate your time and for how long - Value the most time out of the things you commit to - Why time management is important to those who are less organized - How you spend your 24 hours in a day - Having the grace to understand that time management is different from person to person - Clock watching - A personal story on how he got it wrong...ouch!!! Please take some time to learn from him.

In this episode, we sat down with Col (ret) Michael Black to talk about the subject of "Your Brand". A few years ago I was professionally agitated by another Col, Michael Boswell when he often asked me, "Shooter, what is your brand?" For some reason, none of the answers I gave seemed to ever scratch the itch. We brought Col Black on to dissect the topic of "The Brand." He was able to share: - What he believes the definition of Brand is - The beauty of Brand Ambassadors - What he defines as his Brand - When he discovered he had a Brand - How he effectively uses his Brand - Examples such as Kobe, Lebron, and Michael Jordan - His "Five Fs" command philosophy - His role in AFCEA and AFCOMA - and so much more!!! Take some time to listen/watch and discover your Brand.

In this episode, we sat down with Command Chief Master Sergeant (ret), Lou Moyer to talk about one of our favorite subjects: The People! His 30+ years of military experience qualify him to help dissect such an important topic. We were able to discuss: - How his wife has helped him take care of The People - Some examples of how The People have changed his life - Some examples of how he has been able to change the lives of others - The comparison of mission versus the people - The importance of getting to know The People - How he got down in the trenches with The People - And so much more You don't want to miss out on this wealth of knowledge!

In this episode, we sat down with Lytic to discuss two types of homebrew (coffee and beer). These two items are quite different from one another but both provide the same pleasure of controlling how you want the finer things in life to taste. Here we discuss: - How he got into roasting his own coffee beans - How he got into brewing his own beer - How to distinguish between cheap coffee/beer and good ones - His worst batch of beer ever made - How he burned the throats of his co-workers - How went from hating the smell of coffee as a kid to his current love for it - The way his grandfather made the house smell when brewing his own beer And many other fun and interesting stories. Here's a link he referenced to get started on your own home roasting starter kit. https://www.sweetmarias.com/roasting/drum-roasters/drum-roasting-starter-kit.html

We are happy to round out Cyber Security Awareness Month with none other than Brig Gen (ret) Greg Touhill. He is the director of the world-renowned Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute’s (SEI) Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) Division. Brig Gen Touhill is one of the nation’s premier cybersecurity and information technology executives and was appointed by former President Barack Obama to be the first chief information security officer (CISO) of the United States government. In this episode, we discuss: - Why he believes complexity is the greatest risk to cyber security - The importance of assessing cyber security risks versus threats - The memories of the CIA triad and the OSI model - How zero trust can help with insider risks - His definition of cyber - His definition of a cyber threat - The way in which he continues to protect this nation - Avoiding the pitfalls of marketing

Season Finale! I could not think of a better way to end the season than with the guy I have been "ridin'" with for the majority of my life. Although I am not a motorcycle rider, Antonio Kitchens aka Tony aka Big Kitch has been riding for years. He knows the ups and downs (literally) of being a motorcyclists and offers great advice for riders and none-riders. He discusses how riding helps him to connect and disconnect at the same time. If you are a rider or know a rider, this episode is jam-packed with inspiration and laughter.

Chief Bob Vasquez is the author of many books and he hosts several podcasts. He is "a wisdom seeker, igniter, storyteller, author, musician, inspirational/motivational speaker, life coach, and mentor." Through his works, he has found an effective approach to principles of leadership. The “Heirpower!” concept is suitable for anyone in a position of leadership. Join Simsation Nation as we discuss several leadership topics that will surely improve your followership/leadership skills. The book can be downloaded for free at: https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/Portals/10/AUPress/Books/B_0100_VASQUEZ_HEIRPOWER.pdf If you want to make contact, he can be reached at: http://bobvasquez.com/ or [email protected]

***As with most vices, all things should be done in moderation. Simsation Nation does not encourage behavior that is contrary to your healthy living.*** Have you ever heard cigars be compared to steak and side dishes? In this episode, Simaation Nation sat down with Q. Everage to share our love for smoking the occasional cigar. He reminisces on how he got started with smoking cigars and recalls some great advice his late father provided him. As a seasoned cigar smoker with an admirable cigar collection, he is able to describe the different types of cigars and can readily distinguish between cheap cigars and expensive ones. The questions most ask are, "am I supposed to inhale the cigar smoke?, should I use a punch or a cutter?, how should I store them?", etc. Q can help!

Employees ANNND Employers, Students ANNND Educators, Young ANNND Seasoned....this episode is a must-watch!!! I sat down with Mr. Lee Buoy to discuss what hustle culture means and why it exists. We discuss unconventional career paths and why there have been such drastic changes since the ways of old. We discuss recruiting and retention and what organizations can do to make their employees want to stay and why it may be okay not to stay in current positions at all. We also discuss traditional education versus trade school. This episode is jam-packed with knowledge bombs and you must watch/listen! You will not be disappointed!

What does it mean to leave your mark? Well, when I depart an organization I always hope to: 1. leave the place better than I found it 2. leave with something I did not have when I arrived I could not think of a better person to help me discuss what it REALLY means to leave your mark other than Brig Gen Chad Raduege. He is on the verge of retirement and his 29-year military career offers ample opportunity to share examples of how he left his mark on people and organizations. He utilized the concept of Mission, People, and Culture to explain his leadership philosophy. Those that know him may be wondering what is next for him. Watch to find out!

Gen. Anthony J. Cotton is the Commander, United States Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. He is responsible for one of 11 Unified Commands under the Department of Defense. USSTRATCOM is comprised of 150,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and civilians who operate globally performing the command’s missions. The command also provides the Secretary of Defense and President a range of options to deter adversaries and assure allies. Even with so much responsibility, he still finds ways to create an effective work-life balance. He is the epitome of a great leader and a great family man. In this episode, he shares some valuable lessons learned and offers advice for people of all stages to avoid the pitfalls of an imbalanced work-life relationship. He took the time to humanize himself and has an important message for those striving to be productive members of society. This is a message you don't want to miss!

In this episode, we had a great time discussing our love for guitars and music in general. Bori has been playing the guitar for 29 years and hopes to start a family tradition by passing his guitar love over to his son. He shares how he got started playing, how many he owns, and the most he ever paid for one. Bori also offers great advice for beginner to veteran guitarists. Music is the universal language and is good for the soul. Organizations such as the one listed below are utilizing guitars to help veterans with PTSD. https://guitars4vets.org/

Beginner or experienced runners/fitness enthusiasts this episode is for you!!!!! Join Simsation Nation as we sit down with Amy Natalini to discuss how she developed a passion for running that ultimately led to her completing 60+ full marathons and 500+ days of consecutive running. During this episode, she shares how she overcame a personal health scare and learned the importance of the rest/run ratio. She also shares advice for shoes, clothing, and diet. Don't miss out on this education!

"Behind every success is effort...Behind every effort is passion...Behind every passion is someone with the courage to try." On this episode, the owner and cook behind the Saucy, Saucy food truck talks to us about his passion behind the business and what it takes to garner the courage to take the first step in following your dreams. If you like passionate people, BBQ, and sauce, this episode is for you. He's definitely got the sauce!!!

Are you Greek? Did you pledge? Joining a fraternity is one of the things I wish I would/could have done. Join Simsation Nation as we sit down with Mike Ward to discuss the pros and cons of joining a fraternity, what it takes to join, and advice for choosing the right one. Shout out your fraternity in the comments!!!

Do you like Whiskey, Whisky, Scotch, or Bourbon? Do you like single malt, on the rocks, neat, or with a splash? So many choices!!! What is the best way to enjoy your libation? Is it about the drink or the people you enjoy it with? We can help. Join us as Simsation Nation stops by "The Squadron" to discuss this fun topic. Also, check out the story of Uncle Nearest (link below). https://unclenearest.com/unathome/ Disclaimer: always drink responsibly. All things in moderation.

In this episode Chaplain Terry Owens shares his journey to answer the call on his life as he transitioned from Airman to Officer to Chaplain in the United States Air Force. We also discuss roles and responsibilities of a Chaplain, day-to-day life, and religion in the workplace. Disclaimer: The content of this podcast does not represent the views of the DoD and are solely the views of the participants.

In this episode I brought on my very own daughter Deja Sims to help wrap-up season 1 and celebrate the Month of the Military Child.    "The Defense Department celebrates military children during the month of April. There are more than 1.6 million military children who face many challenges and unique experiences as a result of their parents' service.   While military members serve around the world, we often forget the challenges faced by their children. Military families move on average every two to three years, impacting military children through changing schools and support networks.   Each year, the DOD joins national, state and local government, schools, military serving organizations, companies and private citizens in celebrating military children and the sacrifices they make."   https://www.defense.gov/Spotlights/Month-of-the-Military-Child/#:~:text=The%20Defense%20Department%20celebrates%20military,result%20of%20their%20parents'%20service. Deja's business can be located at: https://www.styleseat.com/m/v/essentialbeauty

How many pairs of Jordans does he have? Watch/listen to find out. One of the coolest Colonels talks about the importance of being an authentic leader. He is able to show his authentic self by expressing his love for sneakers. He is a true sneakerhead and shares how his passion for sneakers was developed, the most he has ever paid for sneakers, and how he avoids creasing them.  He actually has more shoes than his wife Holly and his son Brady is looking to keep the sneakerhead tradition going by balling in new Jordans.   If you like sneakers, this is a must-see.

Simsation Nation is a platform that adds positivity to the world by discussing random topics. We have more similarities than we do differences and open conversations create unity. Be ready to listen to discussions about music, movies, fear, goals, ancestry, education, military, mentorship, leadership, fitness, beer, cigars, whisky and so much more!!! At Simsation Nation, the goal is to inspire viewers through shared experiences for awareness, support, and encouragement! The mission is to create a fun and safe platform for all viewers and guests. Kick back and enjoy the show. Subscribe today!!!!

Have you ever met someone who knows EVERYTHING there is to know about movies? They can recite famous quotes, tell you the producers, identify directors, and name the entire cast. Is it you? We all at least know someone. Well, Chris Robinson is that movie head. What is your favorite movie?  What is your favorite genre?   Who is your favorite actor/actress?

The barbershop is more than just a place to get a haircut. Just think back to movies like "Coming to America" or Ice Cube's "Barbershop". The barbershop is a safe haven to get therapy, discuss world events, and simply hang out. It is not easy to become a certified barber and requires ample training/education.  Join us as the host of Simsation Nation chats with his "big" little brother about what it is like being a barber. Royce Sims is the founder of "Presentable Trim" and explains how he got his start and what is in store for his future. Checkout Presentable Trim at:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048743936127&mibextid=LQQJ4d  and https://instagram.com/presentable_trim?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

During this episode, I sat down with my good friend Stevo Joyce to discuss Fitness and Lifestyle. Stevo was an ambassador, then representative, turned athlete for Military Muscle, an organization that focuses on helping people live their best lives. Fitness is more than what meets the eye. It starts internally. Steve opens up about the ups and downs of competitive bodybuilding and shares some personal stories that can help every viewer.   Now, I am about to go to some situps...lol    Go follow him at  https://www.youtube.com/ @stevojoycefitnessandlifest8530 

When climbing the ladder of success, which one is it?   "What got you here won't get you there."  OR  "Keep doing what you are doing, it got you this far."   Gabe "GabeRock" Avilla joins me to discuss this very topic and share some treasures from his book, No Pressure, and his podcast, Constant Elevation. Link below includes all of his details.    https://constantelevation.co/

Have you ever been asked the question, "Hey, where'd you go to school?" Were they just curious or were they sizing you up? Education can be pursued in many ways. Do you prefer traditional, non-traditional, trade school or none at all? Do what works for you and don't hate on the paths of others.

New Year, who dis?!?! With 2023 approaching, some may choose to make New Year's resolutions and others may simply set some goals. Either way, make sure you make S.M.A.R.T. goals. They should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. Decide what you want to do, what it will take to do it, and GET-IT-DONE!!! Happy New Year!

If there is something you want to do and you are scared to do it, do....it....scared!!! Start today and do it better tomorrow. Don't be discouraged!  "A good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan executed next week." George S. Patton

This episode is part 2 of my first podcast created by Simsation Nation. It is a conversation between Father and Son (old and young) to discuss the evolution of music.

This episode is the very first Podcast created by Simsation Nation. It is a conversation between Father and Son (old and young) to discuss the evolution of music.