Joel Gandara - The Greatest Lessons in Leadership and Resilience from a Military Lawyer with Michael Waddington

The Greatest Lessons in Leadership and Resilience from a Military Lawyer with Michael Waddington

08/16/24 • 63 min

I’m thrilled to share the latest episode of our podcast, where I had an incredible conversation with Michael Waddington who has a fascinating journey from military service to law practice. This episode is packed with insights, challenges, and encouragements that will resonate deeply with anyone on a path of self-improvement. Here are the key takeaways:
1. From Steel Town to Army JAG: A Journey of Resilience
Background**: Our guest grew up in Newcastle, Pennsylvania, a struggling steel town, and enlisted in the Army at 18.
Military Service**: He became an Army JAG lawyer, inspired by the film "A Few Good Men," and faced rigorous training and ethical challenges.
Leadership Ethics**: He shares a powerful story about confronting unethical behavior, emphasizing the importance of leading by example.
2. Transitioning to Civilian Life: New Challenges, New Growth
Private Practice**: After his military service, he transitioned to defending military personnel in civilian courts.
Differences in Law**: He explains the nuances between military and civilian law and the importance of having a military background for effective defense.
3. Personal Growth and "Battle Mind"
Book Insights**: His book "Battle Mind" explores themes of personal growth and overcoming life's ruts.
Self-Awareness**: He stresses the importance of recognizing when you're stuck and taking proactive steps to change your circumstances.
4. The "Yeah Butters" Mentality
Excuses vs. Action**: He challenges the mindset of making excuses and emphasizes the need for honesty and self-reflection.
Positive Influences**: Surrounding yourself with motivated and positive individuals is crucial for personal development.
5. Overcoming Personal Struggles
Sobriety Journey**: Inspired by a podcast and a book, he quit drinking and took up jiu-jitsu, transforming his life.
Constructive Criticism**: Accepting and acting on constructive criticism is essential for growth.
6. Fatherhood and Resilience
Raising Kids**: He shares the challenges and triumphs of raising children while pursuing demanding careers.
Building Toughness**: Facing adversities, like dealing with bullies, builds resilience and prepares one for life's challenges.
7. Ethical Dilemmas in Military Operations
Operation Iron Triangle**: He recounts a mission with ethical conflicts and the subsequent legal battles.
Accountability**: The importance of moral responsibilities and navigating a system rife with corruption.
8. Embracing Physical Fitness and Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu Journey**: Starting at 45, he emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and the mental aspects of the sport.
Health and Well-being**: Jiu-Jitsu motivates a healthier lifestyle, pushing practitioners to stay active and fit.
9. Cultural Adaptation and Personal Growth
South Florida Experience**: Moving to a diverse community enriched his personal growth and adaptation.
Reconnecting with Passions**: Embracing childhood joys, like wrestling, can lead to fulfilling and joyful experiences.
10. Legal Practice and Community Engagement
Reach Out**: He offers his contact information for those in need of legal advice in Florida, specializing in criminal and family law.
This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Whether you're looking to break free from a rut, embrace new challenges, or simply find inspiration in someone else

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Previous Episode

The Art of Shaving: From Failure To Fortune with Eric Malka

Unleash Your Potential with Eric Malka's Inspiring Journey!
I’m thrilled to share some golden nuggets from my latest podcast episode with Eric Malka, the co-founder of The Art of Shaving and a serial entrepreneur. If you're a man on a mission to improve yourself and conquer new heights, this episode is a must-listen. Here’s a sneak peek into the wisdom Eric shared:
Key Takeaways from Eric Malka’s Journey:
From Morocco to Manhattan:
Eric’s story begins as a first-generation American who immigrated from Morocco. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience and ambition.
At 17, with just $100, he took a Greyhound bus to NYC, marking the start of his entrepreneurial adventure.
Turning Adversity into Fuel:
Financial struggles and cultural adjustments shaped Eric’s drive for success.
He faced feelings of inadequacy but used them as motivation to prove himself.
Building The Art of Shaving:
Eric identified a gap in the luxury men’s grooming market and turned it into a thriving business.
Despite initial insecurities, he embraced the philosophy: “Think big, start small.”
Lessons in Resilience:
Eric’s journey wasn’t smooth. He faced a failed business and financial insecurity but bounced back stronger.
His story underscores the importance of perseverance and learning from setbacks.
Strategic Growth and Acquisition:
The Art of Shaving’s acquisition by Procter & Gamble was a game-changer, teaching Eric the synergy of creativity and disciplined business practices.
Health and Mindset:
Eric emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health for sustained success.
He practices transcendental meditation, which has significantly improved his productivity and decision-making.
Financial Freedom:
True wealth, according to Eric, is about not worrying about money and enjoying the freedom it brings.
He shares his conservative investment philosophy, focusing on long-term growth and stability.
Fatherhood and Personal Growth:
Eric’s reflections on fatherhood and his relationship with his own father offer deep insights into balancing personal and professional life.
Creating Opportunities:
Eric’s story is a powerful reminder that luck favors the prepared. He created opportunities through hustle and resourcefulness.
New Book Alert:
Eric’s new book, “On the Razor’s Edge,” chronicles his life story and offers invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Why You Should Listen:
Be Challenged and Encouraged:** Eric’s journey will push you to rethink your approach to challenges and inspire you to take bold steps.
Learn from the Best:** Gain insights from a man who turned a small shop into a luxury brand acquired by a global giant.
Practical Wisdom:** Eric’s lessons on resilience, health, and financial freedom are actionable and relevant.
Tune In Now!
Don’t miss out on this incredible episode. Eric Malka’s story is not just about business success; it’s about personal growth, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
Stay strong and keep pushing your limits!

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Next Episode

Navigating the Complex World of Foster Care: Insights from Joshua Cox

I'm thrilled to share some incredible insights from our latest podcast episode featuring the remarkable Josh Cox. This episode is packed with wisdom, challenges, and inspiration that you won't want to miss. Here are the key takeaways:
🎯 Lessons from a Javelin Thrower
Discipline and Mental Strength**: Josh's journey in javelin throwing taught him the importance of discipline and mental resilience. He emphasizes how these skills are crucial not just in sports, but in every aspect of life.
Height and Leverage**: Did you know that taller athletes often have an advantage in javelin throwing due to better leverage? Josh, standing at 6'4", shares fascinating insights into the physical dynamics of the sport.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fatherhood and Family Dynamics
Adoption Journey**: Josh and his wife have adopted six children, adding to their two biological kids. Their story is a testament to the power of love and commitment.
Foster Care Realities**: Josh sheds light on the complexities of the foster care system, particularly in Louisiana. He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a foster parent.
💼 Business and Motivation
Family as Motivation**: For Josh, his family is his driving force. He shares how the responsibility of providing for his children keeps him motivated in his business endeavors.
Overcoming Challenges**: Josh talks about the importance of setting aside past mistakes and treating each new experience as a fresh start, a lesson he learned from sports and applies in his business and family life.
🏡 Life with Eight Kids
Structure and Routine**: Managing a household with eight children requires a lot of structure and routine. Josh shares how he and his wife have created a system that works for their large family.
Community Support**: Josh emphasizes the importance of community support for foster families. Simple acts of kindness, like buying a meal or offering babysitting services, can make a huge difference.
🌟 Why You Should Listen
Inspiration and Encouragement**: Josh's story is a powerful reminder that we can all make a difference, whether through fostering, adopting, or simply supporting those who do.
Practical Wisdom**: From sports to business to family life, Josh offers practical advice that you can apply to your own journey of self-improvement.
🎧 Tune In Now!
Don't miss out on this incredible episode. Listen to the full conversation with Josh Cox and get inspired to take on new challenges and make a positive impact in your community.
Stay strong and keep pushing forward!
P.S. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your friends and family. Let's spread the wisdom and encouragement far and wide! 🌍💪