024: Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast

One of the most important lessons I learned during Pararescue training is the idea that “Slow is Smooth and Smooth is Fast.”  We heard this almost everyday from our instructors and eventually came to understand just how true this is, not just during physical performance but also during times of crisis and even daily life.  In today’s episode, we’ll take a look at the connection between speed, simplicity, learning, performance, and even life itself. Download this episode (right click and...

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023: A Warrior’s Farewell

Over the years, I have said farewell to a great number of warriors.  Some have died, and others retired or just moved on.  It is never easy, especially when they are not ready to go.  In this episode, I read a farewell speech I wrote for one such man.  It is short and sweet, and it touches on the restlessness that many veterans feel when they leave the service.           Download this episode (right click and...

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022: Deep Thoughts

Why is it so hard to be happy, content, and fulfilled?  We are really blessed to live in an age and a country where we aren’t struggling for survival every single day.  Yet, so many of us are frustrated and discontented with our lives.  At least, I know I am.  I feel like there must be something more, that I’m missing something.  I guess it all goes back to the age old questions about the meaning of life.  Today I’ll share a few of my thoughts on the subject and will hopefully give you something to think about this weekend. Download this episode (right click and...

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021: Combat, Cruising, and Carpe Diem

Today’s guest is a good friend who has certainly lived an interesting and dangerous life.  Jim Ellis is a twenty year combat vet who served as a helicopter gunship pilot and maintenance test pilot.  During his tour in Iraq in 2003, Jim took stock of his life and was not happy with what he saw.  Two years later, he retired, bought a boat, sailed the Caribbean, bought a marina in Guatemala, met the love of his life, and eventually set off to accomplish his lifelong dream of crossing the Pacific Ocean in a sail boat.  This is a wide ranging interview and I think you will agree that Jim’s story is an inspiration for us all.  Also, check out the links below. Enjoy! Download this episode (right click and save) Books and Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Dove, by Robin Lee Graham Patrick O’Brian Books, a classic series of books about the age of tall ship sailing Don’t Stop the Carnival, the story of a man who faces middle age by reinventing himself on a Caribbean island Endurance: Shackelton’s Incredible Journey, by Alfred Lansing Nigel Calder’s Cruising Handbook: A Compendium for Coastal and Offshore Sailors, by Nigel Calder The Bumfuzzle Blog, Pat and Ali’s seemingly endless journey Mopelia (also Maupihaa), an atoll in the Society Islands west of Bora Bora.  Population 10 and a great place to...

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020: 1,440 Minutes, Part 3 (Scheduling)

Today we wrap up our series on time management.  In this episode we look at tips and techniques to help up build and manage our schedules. Download this episode (right click and...

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