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by Robert Pizzini
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In this episode, host Robert "Bob" Pizzini interviews retired Navy Commander and PhD Joseph Dituri, also known as "Dr. Deep Sea." Joseph, a Navy diver and engineering duty officer, served 28 years, during which he earned a master’s in astronautical engineering and led deep submergence and submarine rescue capabilities. He later contributed to the development of the SEAL Dry Combat Submersible at SOCOM. Joseph shares his background, which involved growing up between New York and Italy, developing a strong work ethic, and entering Navy diving through early assignments and mentorship. Following his Navy career, he obtained a PhD in biomedical engineering, specializing in life support and hyperbaric/hypobaric medicine, and authored works, including hyperbaric medicine guidance. He achieved a Guinness World Record with Project Neptune 100 by living underwater for 100 days. This endeavor aimed to study the prolonged effects of hyperbaric conditions, promote ocean preservation, and inspire STEM education. Dr. Joseph also recounts his recovery from a traumatic brain injury using a multimodal protocol, discusses the safety and mechanisms of hyperbaric treatment, and defines leadership as a practice of giving back through knowledge and mentorship. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Work ethic is foundational — Joe's parents modeled relentless hard work with zero tolerance for laziness, which made military culture feel natural from day one. Diversity of thought is what actually solves problems — background and upbringing shape how you think, not just who you are. Healing TBI (and most serious injuries) requires a combination approach — no single treatment works; hyperbaric oxygen, CBT, physical therapy, neurofeedback, and grounding all played a role in Joe's recovery. Residual self-image is a hidden danger after major life transitions — losing your military identity without replacing it can lead to crisis; look inward and redefine yourself early. The ocean is an untapped pharmacy — a compound discovered at the bottom of the Mariana Trench showed partial Alzheimer's-fighting properties; we've barely explored what's there. Living underwater proved hyperbaric pressure improves mental health markers — PTSD, anxiety, and sleep scores all improved after 100 days at depth. Leadership is knowledge transfer — accumulate wisdom, then give it away generously; your name is irrelevant, but what you pass on lives forever. Constant, never-ending improvement — the only goal is to be better than you were yesterday. QUOTES Leadership is basically giving back to whoever you're around, whatever knowledge you have." — Dr. Joe Dituri "Diversity of thought — that's where we miss the boat. I don't care about your color or your gender. I care that we solve the problem." "Nobody will remember my name in a hundred years. But hopefully some of that wisdom left me and went to somebody." "The drug company model is change one thing. The real human model is change everything and fix the f***ing problem." "Hyperbaric oxygen doesn't cure anything. It just helps your body heal itself." "I'm looking at the man in the mirror — and I'm asking him to change his ways. That's the work." "Science wins over BS. You gotta do the science." "Permission granted, Aquanaut — fix the problem." — Admiral McRaven to Dr. Dituri "When I went into the military, it was like — you want me to wake up early and never quit? I can do this. This is like being at home." Connect and learn more from Joseph Dituri.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-dituri-ph-d-5099789/ Website: https://drdeepsea.com/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Alexandra (“Big Perm”) Mensing, U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot. Alexandra recounts growing up in Raleigh, the influence of sports and coaching, choosing the Naval Academy, and completing leadership and survival training including NOLS and SERE. She explains aviation and jet selection, E/F single- vs two-seat aircraft, and carrier operations, including Arctic Circle “blue nose” deployment, NATO exercises, and later Middle East operations. She describes combat defensive counter-air missions and becoming the first female naval aviator to employ an AIM-120 to destroy a one-way attack drone threatening the USS Harry S. Truman, alongside the stresses of events like a friendly-fire shootdown and ejections. Alexandra discusses leadership as building team commitment, transitioning to the Navy Reserve, and starting a NASA Langley SkillBridge internship while exploring airlines and business. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sports build crucial leadership foundations - volleyball coach Lee demonstrated the balance of pushing hard during practice while being supportive afterward Naval aviation selection is merit-based and gradual - grades, performance, and timing determine assignments from basic flight school through specific aircraft SERE school's psychological training proves invaluable - the mental aspects of survival and humanizing yourself in capture scenarios matter more than physical skills Combat deployments require flexibility - from Arctic operations to Red Sea drone defense, naval aviators adapt to rapidly changing global threats First female naval aviator to employ AIM-120 in combat - shot down one-way attack drone threatening USS Harry S. Truman with radar-guided missile after IR missile failed Leadership means building commitment, not compliance - great leaders make people want to be part of something rather than forcing them through authority Career transitions require accepting when you're "complete" - knowing when you've accomplished your goals allows confident movement to the next chapter QUOTES "Just work hard during practice, but then be super friendly afterwards. So a good balance of being tough to get you to work hard, but then like congratulatory when you did something well" "The standards are the same... If a woman can meet the same standard, then there shouldn't be a difference" "A good leader is someone who can bring everyone together to be on the same team and want to be on the same team" "I felt complete. Like I was content with my career... and I was like proud of all the things I got to do" Connect and learn more from Alexandra "Big Perm" Mensing.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-mensing-4a6109203/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Cheryl Zonkowski, founder and owner of Catalyzt Nutrition, LLC. Cheryl shares her extensive experience ranging from her role as a performance dietician for Naval Special Warfare to her tenure as the Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of Florida. The discussion focuses on how proper nutrition can optimize cognition, energy levels, and longevity. Cheryl explains her methods, including evaluating biomarkers, developing personalized meal plans, and the importance of reestablishing a healthy relationship with food. Additionally, they discuss Catalyzt Nutrition’s offerings, including custom meal preparation and delivery, and how these services can benefit not only elite athletes and military personnel but also executives seeking high performance in their professional lives. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Performance nutrition is highly individualized; there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Tracking biomarkers and personal health metrics over time is essential for optimizing performance and longevity. Hydration and timing of fueling (meals/snacks) are foundational for mental clarity and sustained energy. Supplements should only fill gaps; focus on whole foods first. Meeting clients where they are and customizing plans leads to better outcomes. Team culture and leadership are shaped by modeling behavior and supporting each other. QUOTES “No human is one size fits all.” “If you can measure it, you can manage it.” “Supplements are meant to supplement the diet, not replace it.” “Teams, just like children, are always watching—they’re always a sponge.” “You always want to be helpful, not hurtful.” “Hydration is a huge one… fatigue, irritability, and lethargy are the first signs of dehydration.” “The beauty of fueling is that no human’s life is the same every single day.” Connect and learn more from Cheryl Zonkowski.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-zonkowski-ms-rd-cssd-a7378520/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by LaTonya Warren, CEO and founder of Armintia, LLC, a veteran-owned cannabis research, development, and education company. Throughout the conversation, LaTonya shares her personal journey from military service to becoming a leader in the cannabis industry. She discusses her grandmother's influence as a holistic cannabis healer, her academic and professional pursuits in chemistry, and the creation of Arminia. The discussion covers LaTonya's work with educational institutions, local government, and the senior community, emphasizing the importance of safe, regulated cannabis products. Latonya also delves into her leadership philosophy, underscoring the importance of asking for help and continuous learning. Lastly, they touch upon LaTonya's current participation in the Founders Institute program aimed at accelerating her business growth. The episode is an insightful look at leadership, perseverance, and innovation in an emerging industry. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Leadership means not being afraid to ask for help, keep learning, and seek advice from others. The cannabis industry is evolving, requiring a blend of science, advocacy, and education. Safe, tested, and regulated cannabis products are essential, especially for new and older users. Education and research are critical to advancing cannabis understanding and opportunity. Personal experience and family legacy can inspire impactful business and community work. QUOTES “Leadership is not being afraid to ask others for help.” “I really do care about this product, and I want people to have the safest product, especially if they're deciding to consume it.” “When it comes to leadership, you have to be okay with asking, exploring, reading more, learning more, and then if you see other leaders, ‘How did you accomplish this?’” “The best leaders know that they have a lot to learn.” “Education was needed. That was my ‘let’s go to the drawing board and figure this thing out’ moment.” “I want people to have the safest product, and I think Virginia Beach is the best place for a lab setting.” Connect and learn more from LaTonya Warren.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ltwarren/ Armintia Website: https://www.armintia.com/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Ava Heil, an 18-year-old division one soccer player and daughter of a retired US Navy SEAL. The discussion highlights Ava's upbringing in a military family, touching on the unique challenges and resilience required, her experiences with her father's deployments, and how her parents inspired her. Ava shares her perspective on growing up in a military community, her aspirations to study biology and eventually become a dermatologist, and her diverse employment experiences. The conversation also covers the importance of discussing and processing the emotional toll of military life. Ava’s story serves as an informative and heartfelt insight into the life of military children and families. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Military families develop resilience through sacrifice and support. Open communication and expressing feelings are vital for mental health. Community and friendship provide essential support for military families. Role models at home inspire strength, grit, and ambition. QUOTES “Resilience is a key word in military families.” “If he could do that, I could do this.” “She did everything in silence. That example of quiet resilience left a lasting mark.” “It’s really important to express your feelings and talk about them.” About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
John Reid is a lifelong Virginian, trusted conservative voice, and proven leader with the skills to deliver results for the Commonwealth. For the past eight years, he’s hosted WRVA’s award-winning Morning Show—one of America’s longest-running conservative radio programs—where listeners tune in for his clear, common-sense takes on issues that matter. He also founded and chairs The Virginia Council, bringing parents, educators, and community leaders together to protect cultural heritage, promote civic education, and uphold Virginia’s values. John began his public service career as one of President Ronald Reagan’s final interns, then became Communications Director for U.S. Senator George Allen. He later led national messaging as Chief Communications Officer for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, the nation’s largest new-generation veterans group. As a Richmond TV news anchor and investigative reporter for over a decade, he exposed crime, corruption, and waste. Now living in Richmond with his partner, Alonzo, John is running for Lieutenant Governor to restore trust, protect Virginia’s values, and ensure the Commonwealth remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. SHOW SUMMARY In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini welcomes John Reid, Republican candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, to discuss his leadership journey. From interning under Ronald Reagan and working in broadcast journalism, to advising U.S. Senator George Allen, John shares compelling stories and insights from a diverse career. He also speaks candidly about being a gay man in public life, offering perspective on identity, leadership, and resilience. Key political topics include economic growth, right-to-work laws, and gender identity debates. John emphasizes authenticity, individual freedom, and integrity in governance—urging leaders to stand firm in their values while building bridges and seeking common ground. KEY TAKEAWAYS Leadership is a perishable skill—use it or lose it. Authenticity and resilience are vital in public service. Personal adversity shapes effective leadership. Protecting children and upholding values are central to John’s platform. Economic opportunity and job creation strengthen communities. Strong convictions matter—especially when under pressure. Societal progress requires unity and shared purpose. QUOTES “Leadership is a perishable skill. Use it or lose it.” “Don’t tell me why it can’t be done. You just gotta figure it out.” “Find people who build, unite, and improve society.” “If you indulge foolishness, you’ll make bad policy.” “I have nothing to hide. That’s how you must lead.” “Great societies create a population that feeds and clothes themselves.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
ABOUT THE GUEST(S) Matt and Johan Suyderhoud are twin brothers, both retired F-18 fighter pilots. Both served on active duty for many years and are now commercial pilots. In addition to their flying careers, they have a wealth of experience and insight into military culture and aviation, which they share candidly in discussions about the current state and future of military aviation. SHOW SUMMARY In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by the twin brothers Matt and Johan Suyderhoud, both recently retired F-18 fighter pilots turned commercial pilots. The discussion centers around whether the US military has become less elite over the years, touching on topics such as the increase in administrative bureaucracy and its impact on tactical proficiency and unit culture. They highlight key points including the over-reliance on data and administrative tasks that detract from combat readiness and fitness, which are essential for maintaining an elite force. The episode also covers the positive changes under the new administration focused on enhancing combat effectiveness, meritocracy, and physical fitness, while addressing the challenges posed by a deeply ingrained bureaucracy. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Culture and Leadership: The significance of strong, cohesive culture and effective leadership in creating a highly functional military unit cannot be overstated Risk and Readiness: The current military culture's lack of engagement with real-life risks is leading to excessive bureaucracy and decreased combat readiness. Recruitment and Retention: Adjusting the recruitment process and criteria to focus on merit and combat readiness can help attract and retain ideal candidates. Administrative Overhead: Excessive administrative tasks and bureaucratic bloat are hindering military effectiveness and should be minimized to focus on core combat skills. New Military Vision: The current administration's vision for the military—emphasizing combat readiness, fitness, and lethality—is critical for reversing the negative trends. Historical Lessons: Historical examples show that over-reliance on bureaucracy in critical circumstances can lead to devastating results, emphasizing the need for practical and lean operational culture. QUOTES "Leadership is a perishable skill. Use it or lose it." "War is very unfair. The military needs to win wars, not accommodate everyone with special issues." "The military doesn't need to accommodate anyone with special issues. The military needs to win wars." "We don't have time to go cowboy on this stuff, but the burden of paperwork has gone far too far." "Combat is the standard bearer for military entry requirements." "We've lost our relationship with risk." "The military's purpose is to kill bad guys and break their stuff, not worry about the carbon footprint." "Rules frame the culture, but values give it life." About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
George Allen is the 67th Governor of Virginia who served from 1994 to 1998. He was also a U.S. Senator from 2001 to 2007. As a seasoned politician, Allen is well-known for his leadership in instituting major reforms in education, the economy, and public safety during his tenure. Besides his political career, Allen is the current president of George Allen's Strategies, LLC. On today's episode, he shares his experiences, lessons, and insights from his extensive and varied career in public service. SHOW SUMMARY In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by George Allen, the 67th Governor of Virginia and former US Senator. They delve into the intricacies of leadership, public policy, and personal experiences. Governor Allen recounts his journey from a football-centric upbringing to his tenure as governor and senator. He shares pivotal moments, from initiating the nation's first public-private transportation funding system to navigating post-9/11 America. The conversation touches on essential principles of leadership, the importance of integrity, and the impact of sports and teamwork in shaping societal values. Allen also discusses Virginia's political landscape, the challenges of governance, and lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Leadership and Integrity: Leadership involves having clear principles, genuine commitment, and assembling a capable team to achieve meaningful goals. Economic Development: As governor, Allen prioritized economic development, emphasizing job creation and regulatory reform. Crisis Response: Post-9/11 and during COVID-19, leadership required balancing security, public health, and individual freedoms. Political Challenges: Navigating partisan politics and promoting bipartisan support were crucial for passing significant legislation. Educational Standards: Implementing high academic standards and accountability in Virginia’s education system was a major achievement. Diversity and Merit: Success in governance and business should be based on meritocracy and equal opportunity, not imposed equality of outcomes. QUOTES "Leadership is a perishable skill. Use it or lose it." "The best social program of all is a job." "Never make a promise unless you intend to keep it." "Equal opportunity to compete and succeed on a level playing field is what we should aspire to in our country." "It's amazing how much can get accomplished if you don't worry about who gets the credit." "You need to have a passion and an enthusiasm coming from the genuineness of your mission." "If you're going to shut this down, all these vendors and concessionaires deserve compensation because it's a public purpose." "Focusing on the evidence and facts rather than just following orders blindly is crucial." About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Welcome to the Elevate Your Leadership podcast with me, your host, Bob Pizzini. This podcast will enable you to immediately advance your ability to lead others, as well as yourself. As a 26 year US Navy Special Operations veteran, and as the owner of a multimillion-dollar business I discuss issues that I know you face daily, because I also face them. We tackle leadership challenges head on. Leadership is a perishable skill… use it or lose it. Lifelong leadership requires lifelong learning and a commitment to health, fitness, and intentional wellness. Join me, along with entrepreneurs, industry executives, academics, public figures, and other highly successful professionals who share their formulas for success with you. We will discuss leadership success, failure, defining moments, and hard lessons learned with guests who are intentional in their approach to leadership.
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