Passing The Torch with Martin Foster
Welcome to Passing The Torch, a personal development podcast that’s about the journey, not just the destination.
This show is a conversation with people who inspire me — thought leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, and others who are constantly evolving and learning about themselves. I’m not pretending to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes this podcast different. As I navigate my own personal growth and discover new tools, insights, and stories that are helping me, I’m bringing you along for the ride.
I believe that when it comes to self-improvement, we don’t always need to hear from someone who has already "arrived" at their ideal self. Instead, we can find power in connecting with people who are in the trenches alongside us, figuring things out as they go. Passing The Torch is an opportunity for both of us to learn, grow, and share in real-time.
Every episode, I sit down with individuals from all walks of life — from CEOs and best-selling authors to Special Forces Operators, friends, and elite athletes — and we dive deep into the lessons they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Along the way, I’ll be sharing my own experiences and insights from my personal development journey.
Whether you’re someone who’s looking for guidance or simply enjoy hearing raw, honest stories of transformation, Passing The Torch offers something for everyone. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about sharing what we’ve learned and helping each other move forward.
Join me on this adventure. Let's pass the torch together.
Passing The Torch with Martin Foster
Ep. 19: Simple Guiding Truth on a Historic Path
Summary: On this episode of Passing the Torch, Host Martin Foster introduces someone who understands deeply that we ignore history at our peril - Matt Ziemann, which is why the conversation in this episode of Passing the Torch is so robust. A love of history cultivated early in his life has been a guiding light throughout a remarkable career. The discussion touches on the many ways in which history gives context and how understanding decision-making from an experiential point of view can completely change the way we judge others. Enjoy this fun conversation, which includes everything from interesting fun facts about the Battle of Britain to what combo of historical figures would make for the best dinner party. You’ll also find out what popular adventure character (Hint: Indy, for short) might make the best model on which to base Matt’s life story!
Key Takeaways:
- The big picture: Belief that history is important to good leadership and decision-making
- Person in history who was inspiring
- Sharing a simple, guiding truth: We can choose to learn from our own mistakes or learn from what others can teach us through experiences they’ve already had.
- History provides a template for the many ways in which human decision-making and motivation intersect.
- A project interviewing legendary pilots as a kid gave Matt a window into the humanity and tactical brilliance behind the airmen he idolized.
- Realizing that everyone has a story set Matt on the path uncovering the real story behind notable aviation figures, starting with Robin Olds, a Vietnam era “triple ace” fighter pilot who agreed to be interviewed as did many others.
- Thoughts about two historical figures whose critical decisions were made based on a depth of knowledge about mistakes made in the past: Dwight D. Eisenhower and Robin Olds. Both were committed historians with a tremendous grasp of military campaigns through the ages.
- If Matt could time travel back to witness any moment in all of history he would be most interested to witness the crucifixion of Jesus; in terms of air power history, he would most like to revisit the Battle of Britain.
- Significance of the Battle of Britain and how it’s relevant to modern air campaigns.
- Three dinner guests from all of history:
-
- Jesus Christ
- Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Robin Olds
- A deeper
Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin
More Amazing Stories:
Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure
Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership
Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance
