MCFA podcast
LEADERSHIP BLUEPRINTS
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.
Memorial Day isn’t just the start of summer—it’s a time to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. Every Memorial Day, BJ has decided to play an episode he recorded two years ago to honor his late friend and everyone who has given their lives to service.
In this tribute episode, we speak with Marion Zilinski, known as Mama Z, about the true meaning of Memorial Day through the eyes of someone who lost a loved one in service. She shares the story of her son Dennis, his journey to West Point, the impact of 9/11 on his life, and his incredible generosity.
Marion reflects on the pain of losing him and the signs she still receives from him today. We also highlight Run with Dennis and the Dennis Zilinski Memorial Fund, and how you can get involved. Mama Z leaves us with a powerful reminder of what this day is really about.
To hear all this and be inspired to honor the brave men and women who give you your freedom this Memorial Day, tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Dennis Zilinski, and his life of service.
• Marion reflects on the events of 9/11 and how they impacted Dennis
• The touching revelations about Dennis’ selflessness and generosity found in his will.
• The motivation behind creating Run with Dennis and the Dennis Zilinski Memorial Fund.
• Insights into the service dog initiative and its role in supporting veterans with PTSD.
• Where to find out more about these incredible volunteer-run organizations.
• A powerful reminder of the true meaning of Memorial Day and the cost of our freedom.
Quotes:
“[Dennis] was the protector. Always the protector.” — Marion Zilinski
“[Dennis] said, ‘I would never leave West Point, especially now when my country needs me the most.’” — Marion Zilinski
“I was so angry [when my son died]. I have never been so angry in my life.” — Marion Zilinski
“We want people to understand the dedication of our military.” — Marion Zilinski
“Freedom is not free. It’s bought and paid for only by our military – not by anybody else.” — Marion Zilinski
“22 warriors a day commit suicide because of post-traumatic stress and/or TBI injuries.” — Marion Zilinski
“Our freedom is bought and paid for by men and women that pledge to each of [us] their lives. And not all of them will come home. Many will be killed – or – wounded and their lives will be so impacted.” — Marion Zilinski
Longer Quotes:
“The worst thing that anybody could ever say to me is, ‘Happy Memorial Day’. It’s not a happy day. It’s not the first day of summer. It’s not all about the beach and the sales, it’s about your freedom. It’s about the men and women that step up, raise their right hand, and take that oath to give us our freedom.” — Marion Zilinski
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: