Leadership Elevated:
A Long Blue Leadership Retrospective
Summary
This season's guests included Dr. Heather Wilson ’82, former Secretary of the Air Force; Dr. John Torres ’82, NBC News Senior Medical Correspondent; Maj. Gen. Thomas Sherman ’95, Vice Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy; and 2nd Lt. Wyatt Hendrickson ’24, NCAA wrestling champion and more!
Takeaways
- Leadership is about collecting tools over time.
- Your identity is not defined by your profession.
- Intentionality in actions leads to personal growth.
- Leadership can be practiced at any level.
- Admitting mistakes quickly is crucial for growth.
- Respect and loyalty are earned through care.
- Every moment is an opportunity to make an impact.
- Legacy is built in real-time interactions.
- Conversations can unlock deeper insights about leadership.
- Sharing stories fosters connection and learning.
Episode chapters
00:00 Celebrating leadership lessons from Season 3
03:07 Insights from Dr. Heather Wilson ’82
05:47 Chad Hennings ’88 on identity and leadership
08:55 NCAA wrestling champion Wyatt Hendrickson's ’24 journey
11:51 Jemal Singleton ’99: Leading where you are
14:53 Emma Przybyslawski ’10 on leadership beyond the uniform
17:49 Dr. John Torres ’82: Earning respect and loyalty
20:37 Maj. Gen. Tom Sherman ’95 on courage and legacy
23:47 Looking ahead to Season 4
About our hosts

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99
Senior vice president, engagement
With over two decades in leadership roles, Col. Walkewicz’s current focus at the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation is fostering a robust network of 50,000+ alumni. This commitment involves igniting a culture of engagement and inclusivity, underpinned by a strong foundation in support of our Air Force Academy.
Mr. Wyatt Hornsby
Senior vice president, marketing & communications | executive producer
Wyatt Hornsby is passionate about developing marketing and communications talent and cohesive, high-performance teams. He is senior vice president of marketing and communications at the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation. He leads the work of the foundation and alumni association marketing and communications division while also coordinating with various Air Force Academy offices, including Public Affairs and Strategic Communications.