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Episode 260 of the Transition Drill podcast explores military transition, leadership, and rebuilding purpose for veterans and first responders navigating life after a long career of service. You’ll hear retired Navy Chief Warrant Officer 5 David Sledge on leaving behind 33 years of structure and identity, and what it takes to build purpose beyond the uniform.
Growing up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Sledge initially joined the National Guard to help pay for college before switching to active-duty Navy service during the Gulf War, even though he couldn’t swim. What began as a two-year commitment became a career spanning five ships, deployments, 9/11, the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami response, and assignments around the world. Along the way, he became a Gunner’s Mate, Recruit Division Commander, instructor, Chief Petty Officer, and ultimately a Chief Warrant Officer 5, carrying forward lessons in mentorship and leadership first demonstrated by the sailors who invested in him.
Sledge also explains what happened when that career stopped. After retiring in 2023, he discovered that slowing down created space for memories, questions of identity, and the struggle to replace the routine and purpose military service had provided. He turned toward consulting, continued education, mentoring, coaching basketball, public speaking, and writing.
Today, Sledge is the author of Leadership Alchemy and Hurry Up and Wait, using decades of experience to teach leadership, patience, empathy, listening, and the value of genuinely connecting with people.
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SPONSORS:
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Blue Line Roasting: Premium, law-enforcement-owned coffee roasted to fuel the shift. A portion of every order directly supports law enforcement families facing line-of-duty injury or loss. Save 10% at bluelineroasting.com with promo code Transition10
Frontline Optics: Premium eyewear founded by a firefighter and built to withstand the job. Every single purchase helps support the First Responders Children’s Foundation, serving families who’ve paid the ultimate price. Save 10% off your pair at frontlineoptics.com using promo code Transition10
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