Always in Pursuit
Always in Pursuit
Fueling your Purpose with Herman Estrada
CSM Herman Estrada opens this episode with his origin story as a troubled young kid who got into a lot of trouble, which resulted in him moving out of the home as a teenager. Homeless and struggling, he eventually was able to get a construction job. After a life changing injury, he knew he needed to make a change and this wasn’t how life was supposed to be lived.
He made the decision to join the Army, but enlisting wasn’t that simple. Working 12 hours a day, doing school another 6 hours, and riding back and forth for a year so that he could get his GED. From that, he learned that consistency pays off.
He originally planned to only do four years and take his college money and run. However, after working with amazing people and leaders, he made the decision early on that this was going to be a career and since then, he has never looked back.
Herman talks about how leaders can use social media as a tool to extend their influence beyond normal reach. It can serve to hold yourself and others accountable as well. Consistency is key and your personal example is the most important thing you will do as a leader.
Along with all the amazing influence that CSM Estrada has had in the Army, he has also raised 9 children and 16 grandchildren. He talks about how he has integrated them into his military life and some of the lessons he has learned from raising his children.
Herman gives the back story beyond mega-Hooah and it has become something like a brand/calling card that leaders have adopted across the Army. Its mission is that any individual can overcome any obstacle on the battlefield of life.
Herman closes out the episode by talking about transitioning out of the Army and some of the effects it is having on him. One thing that has helped him is realizing that the Army has been part of his life, but not defined it. Also, he has some sage advice for others that will eventually transition.
Find CSM Estrada on social media: