Centurion Lounge Podcast

Centurion Lounge Episode 15: A Legacy of Service with CSM Kisseeisode 15: A Legacy of Service with CSM Kissee

In this special episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Command Sergeant Major Kissee as she reflects on an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades of dedicated military service, just ahead of her retirement. From her early life and entry into the Army to shaping policy, mentoring Soldiers, and helping lead the force toward greater inclusion, CSM Kissee shares powerful insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Soldiers. Episode Timeline * 00:00 Introduction * 05:31 Leadership Style * 07:10 Early Life & Background * 13:42 Early Service & Education * 18:55 Judge Advocate General Recruitment Experience * 23:37 Paralegal Warrior Training Course * 26:44 Growing as a Versatile Enlisted Paralegal * 31:12 The Most Rewarding Aspects of the Job * 34:14 The Army’s Path Toward Inclusion * 38:18 Career Awards & Recognition * 46:25 Future Policy Considerations * 50:34 Reflections & Closing Remarks A must-listen episode honoring leadership, service, and a remarkable career. Video by Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe

Centurion Lounge Episode 14 w/ Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., SOTO. AT 311TH ESC

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge Podcast, we sit down with Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., Staff Operations Training Officer (SOTO) at the 311th ESC, for a powerful conversation on service, leadership, and mindset. With three decades of experience, Mr. Ortiz shares his journey from the Army Reserve to becoming a Department of Defense civilian, offering insight into his day-to-day responsibilities and the lessons learned along the way. He reflects on the lasting influence of his mother’s legacy, the importance of family support, and the core principles that continue to guide his life and service..This episode is a thoughtful discussion on purpose, resilience, and maintaining the right mindset every day..Timestamps:00:00 Introduction05:22 Three Decades of Service18:05 From Army Reserve to DoD Civilian25:43 Day-to-Day Responsibilities35:35 Carrying Forward a Mother’s Legacy43:23 Family Support and Service48:18 Core Principles for Life and Service54:24 Daily Mindset01:01:49 Closing Remarks.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, service, and personal growth.

🎙️ Centurion Lounge Episode 13 w/ Brig. Gen. Earl C. Sparks IV

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Brig. Gen. Sparks, former Commanding General of the 311th ESC, for an open and powerful conversation about leadership, family, service, and the mindset that shapes great Soldiers. From his early motivations to join the Army to the values that guided his command, Brig. Gen. Sparks reflects on character, integrity, and the pursuit of a “Culture of Better.” He shares personal stories about family days, road trips, work-life balance, and the lessons learned over a distinguished career—along with insights on Mojave Falcon 2025 and the future of the force. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 03:20 – The Man Behind the Uniform 09:40 – Friday & Sunday Family Days 15:39 – The Spark That Led to the Army 23:06 – Work-Life Balance 31:13 – Military Occupational Specialty 35:15 – Family Time & Road Trips 40:54 – Mindset, Character & Growth 47:49 – Mojave Falcon 2025 01:04:23 – The Culture of Better 01:12:43 – Leading with Law & Integrity 01:22:41 – Brig. Gen. Sparks’s Legacy 01:25:09 – Closing Remarks & Shoutout Tune in for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptsite)

🎙️ Centurion Lounge Episode 12 w/ Command Sgt. Maj. Kristy L. Hawkins

Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge recaps our conversation with Command Sergeant Major Kristy Hawkins of the 311th ESC. She shares her journey from the Marine Corps to the Army Reserve, the lessons that shaped her leadership, and her perspective on serving soldiers at every stage of their careers. This episode offers a rare look into her path, her purpose, and the mindset behind leading one of the most dynamic sustainment formations in the Army Reserve (Video by Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste).00:00 - Introduction & Background Story07:39 - Leadership Style Evolution11:05 - Advice on Opportunities15:40 - Life-work balance19:31 - Being a new Grandma 21:45 - Resource Management Challenges29:45 - Support Systems and Family Readiness38:08 - Empowering NCOs41:03 - Planning and Resources48:10 - More on leadership52:14 - Contact Info 53:45 - Future Episodes and Guest Plans01:00:15 - Closing Remarks

Centurion Lounge Episode 11: Total Readiness

In Episode 11 of the Centurion Lounge, the panel examines readiness across mental, spiritual, medical, and personnel areas. 311th ESC Chaplain Yoon leads the discussion with Col. Zschaschel, Command Surgeon for the 79th TSC; Mr. Garcia, 311th Human Resources Officer; and Mrs. Martinez, Suicide Prevention Manager at the 311th ESC. . They discuss the importance of medical and dental readiness, break the stigma around mental health, and share personal stories that promote help-seeking. The conversation also looks at how leadership, teamwork, and the battle buddy system foster a culture of resilience, while exploring spirituality, purpose, and the inherent value of every Soldier. Finally, the panel emphasizes new suicide prevention training, the power of empathy, and the vital role of personal connections in supporting each other. . (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptiste) . 00:00 - Introduction and Panelist Introductions 07:39 - Readiness & Its Impact on Soldiers 17:23 - Connection and Teamwork 25:23 - Fighting Stigma and Behavioral Health Awareness 35:14 - Closing Remarks & Personal Reflections 45:20 - Commitment to Soldier Well-being