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Oak McCulloch returns to the podcast for another discussion on servant leadership and its lasting impact. His ability to drive change continues to inspire, and his book Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be remains a valuable resource.

In this episode, we catch up on Oak’s journey, the impact of his leadership principles today, and what’s changed since our last conversation. Whether you’re leading a team or seeking growth, this episode is full of wisdom from Oak’s 40+ years of experience.

About Our Guest:

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch is an internationally recognized speaker and author of Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be. With 40 years of leadership experience, including 23 in the U.S. Army, Oak’s servant leadership philosophy inspires professionals to lead with integrity and purpose.

Key Topics:

• Oak’s latest projects and updates since our last conversation
• The power of servant leadership today
• Lessons from Your Leadership Legacy for 2025
• Overcoming leadership challenges in today’s world
• Practical advice for becoming the leader you were meant to be

Resources:

• Connect with Oak: https://www.ltcoakmcculloch.com/
• Your Leadership Legacy: https://a.co/d/fj9xnXU
• Previous episode: https://www.youtube.com/live/O3-l-gTJTfw

If you enjoy this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who would benefit from Oak’s insights!

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

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In this episode, we chat with Richard Parker, a former college professor who became a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Commissioned at 43 in 2013, he left academia to serve and embraced every chance to support the Navy's global mission.

Richard’s toughest battle wasn’t on the frontlines—it was for his life. In January 2022, complications from a medical procedure led to septic shock, and he nearly died twice. After 88 days in the hospital, losing 45 pounds, and relearning to walk, his recovery was miraculous, thanks to his wife’s love, prayers, and God’s grace.

Despite the ordeal, Richard returned to active duty as a public affairs officer for Navy Recruiting Command during a challenging time. Now back in Nashville, he serves in the Navy Reserve and is working on a book about his 2022 health struggles. Richard, author of Leadership Lessons from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, is a living example of resilience, service, and faith. Tune in for a deep dive into his journey—his academic career, decision to serve, near-death experience, and powerful return to duty.

Episode Highlights:
• The moment Richard chose military service over academia
• How he survived septic shock and 88 days in the hospital
• The mental and physical battle to recover
• His role in Navy Recruiting Command during a historic challenge
• The lessons he’s learned about leadership, perseverance, and faith

Find Richard - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-d...

Read his book - https://a.co/d/bhnaYHh

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

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I’m beyond thrilled to welcome Sam Shoemate to the show—one of the most fearless voices in military whistleblowing today. If you believe in due process for those who’ve sacrificed for our nation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

You may remember Sam from The Shawn Ryan Show this past January—one of the many who received an email from the Cybertruck driver who detonated his car outside a Las Vegas Trump hotel. But what you might not know? Sam is often the first to break stories from those too afraid to speak out, using his TerminalCWO IG page and other platforms to expose corruption and misconduct at the highest levels.

And here’s the kicker—Sam himself is a whistleblower. He’s turned down multiple big-name podcasts, yet he’s chosen to join us for this powerful discussion. What an honor!

⚡ Set your reminders, spread the word, and join us LIVE! You won’t want to miss this one. 🚨

Find Sam on X - https://x.com/samosaur?s=21&t=98_03W6...

Find Sam on IG - https://www.instagram.com/terminalcwo...

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text

Are you buying or selling a home in Central Ohio? If so, you need a trusted expert who understands the market inside and out. Karen Mavis, owner of the Karen Mavis Home Team with RE/MAX Achievers, joins us to talk about what makes a great real estate experience and how she’s helped clients navigate the process for over 22 years.

Not only that, she’s a dear friend from high school!

In This Episode, We Cover:

🏡 The Journey of a Real Estate Pro – Karen’s passion for real estate and serving others since 2001.
📈 Negotiation & Market Expertise – Why strong negotiation skills are essential when buying or selling.
🔍 The Importance of Education & Technology – How staying ahead benefits her clients.
🤝 A Client-First Approach – How Karen and her team ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

With over $200 million in closed real estate deals, Karen has helped countless buyers and sellers find success. Whether you’re looking for a new home, selling your current one, or just want expert advice, Karen Mavis and her team are here for you—today, tomorrow, and for a lifetime!

📞 Contact Karen Mavis
📍 RE/MAX Achievers
📧 SoldbyKarenMavis@gmail.com
📱 614-499-9595

Tune in now to learn how to navigate the Central Ohio real estate market like a pro!

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text

This is a show I wish I didn’t have to do. But the truth is, the command investigation system is broken, and if no one else will fix it, we’re going to shine a light on the harm it causes—directly from those who have lived it.

It’s our love for the military that compels us to speak up. We believe in accountability, justice, and taking care of our own. This episode features firsthand accounts from survivors of sexual assault, harassment, and bullying—not just about what happened to them, but about the systemic failures that followed.

We’ll focus on three major issues:
1. Lack of Adequate Legal Aid – Victims and complainants often face an uphill battle without proper legal support.
2. Systemic Vulnerabilities – How administrative investigatory and punishment tools can be misused or weaponized.
3. Command Incentives to Dismiss Complaints – Why substantiating complaints is often against a command’s interests.

While my guests’ experiences are deeply personal and painful, this episode isn’t just about their individual stories. The real story is what happened after—the betrayal by DoD and Coast Guard leadership when they failed to act with integrity, accountability, and justice.

This show represents the opinions and beliefs of our guests. They speak for themselves, not on behalf of any entity.

It’s time to tell the truth. Tune in.

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text

In this episode, we sit down with Amber Kulesza, an Air Force Disabled Veteran and the Chief Adventure Officer (CAO) of AmbersAdventures, LLC. Amber’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and an unwavering passion for helping others.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

• Military Career: Amber’s diverse roles, including serving as a Crew Chief for the F-16 and A-10, as well as positions in Postal Management and Cyber Career Fields.
• Navigating the VA System: Amber’s expertise in understanding the VA system and helping other veterans access benefits and resources.
• Finding Strength in Community: How Amber used support from organizations like Wounded Warrior Project and No Barriers to improve her physical and mental health.
• Personal Triumph: Amber’s inspiring journey from riding one mile on a recumbent bike to completing a 52-mile ride on a two-wheel bike, highlighting her determination and the impact of community support.

Fun Facts About Amber:
• She’s a SUPER AUNTIE who treasures quality time with her nieces and nephews, from building Legos to sharing donuts.
• Her happy place is scuba diving in Okinawa, Japan, and collecting sea glass along its beautiful beaches.

Connect with Amber:
Be sure to follow Amber on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for free resources on accessible travel, updates on her new website launching this year, and inspiring stories to help you embrace your next adventure. Amber will also be hosting “Lunch and Learn” sessions to empower veterans in navigating the VA system and beyond!

Get ready to be inspired by Amber’s journey and the incredible work she’s doing to support her fellow veterans. Tune in now!

Find Amber - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-kul...

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text

In this episode, we chat with Rebecca McFadden, a creative force and founder of Fresh Pointe Studio, about her journey from sketching animals as a child to becoming a successful designer. She shares her path through art, fashion design, and interior design, including her experiences in NYC, corporate roles, and how motherhood and the pandemic inspired her to create Fresh Pointe Studio.

Rebecca discusses the power of individuality and design’s impact on mental health and well-being.

Tune in for a conversation about resilience, passion, and staying true to yourself!

About Rebecca McFadden
Rebecca McFadden is a designer, mother, and eternal optimist with a passion for individuality and self-expression. As co-founder of Fresh Pointe Studio, she helps clients create functional, beautiful spaces that enhance their lives. Her journey from fashion design to interior design is a testament to her adaptability, creativity, and commitment to living a life aligned with her values.

Links & Resources:
• Connect with Rebecca: https://www.instagram.com/freshpointe...
• Fresh Pointe Studio: https://www.freshpointestudio.com/about
• Follow the podcast for more inspiring stories!

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text

In this episode, we chat with Andrea Goldstein, a senior executive and national security leader, whose career spans from active-duty U.S. Navy officer to shaping policy at the highest levels of government. Andrea has driven cultural transformation in major U.S. institutions, including her pivotal role in passing the Deborah Sampson Act, which improved services for women veterans.

She’s served in leadership roles across the Biden-Harris Administration and continues her military service as a Navy Reserve commanding officer. Andrea is also an award-winning writer and a member of prestigious organizations like the Council on Foreign Relations.

What You’ll Learn:
• Andrea’s journey from Navy service to national security policy influence.
• Her leadership in driving cultural change within government.
• Insights into the drafting of the Deborah Sampson Act.
• Balancing military service, leadership, and writing.
• Andrea’s thoughts on leadership, resilience, and national security’s future.

About Andrea: Andrea is from New York State and holds degrees from the University of Chicago, Tufts University, and the Naval War College.

Connect with Andrea:
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreango...
• Learn more about here work: https://andreangoldstein.substack.com/

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on Andrea's remarkable career and impact on national issues!

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76