Podcast - MCFA

MCFA podcast

LEADERSHIP BLUEPRINTS

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.

After you retire, the most important thing you take from your career is the legacy you leave.

In this episode, we’re joined by John Carter, a retired Navy Captain and the Founder of the Leadership Bridge Institute, for a deep dive into the power of leadership and legacy, from the key skills that facilitate organizational impact to the paradox of becoming a confident leader who keeps their people both accountable and protected. Although he takes great pride in having commanded ships in the Navy, John shares that the Junior Officers he mentored coming to the pinnacle of their careers today are his greatest source of joy.

Our conversation also explores John’s approach to leadership and the practices that keep him connected to his people. Tune in for plenty of insights from a seasoned leader who continues to create a powerful legacy!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Navigating the transition from active duty to a new chapter of purpose.

• Why leadership skills are key for organizational impact.

• What the Leadership Bridge is and who it’s built for.

• How great leaders empower others by letting them make mistakes.

• Staying grounded in day-to-day operations while keeping your eyes on the future.

• Why focusing on what you stand to gain is more powerful than fixating on what’s missing.

Quotes:

“After you retire, the most important part and piece is your legacy.” — John Carter

“Confidence is generated [through] action.” — John Carter

“Lead by example. You set the standard.” — John Carter

“You’ve always got to have one hand in the day-to-day operations and one hand in the future.” — John Carter