Veterans, Leadership, Choosing Life That Honors Truth

By Lesley Pazdzioch

We live in a world that demands quick fixes, microwaved healing, surface-level gratitude, and productivity without purpose. But healing isn’t fast, and leadership isn’t loud. This conversation with veteran and leadership mentor Dave Rordell reminded me of that truth in the most grounding way. It also reminded me how easy it is for society to say “thank you” while quietly dismissing the needs of those who have sacrificed the most.

Veterans Deserve More Than Thanks

Before the Americans with Disabilities Act, no one thought about ramps, curb cuts, or elevator widths. Why? Because no one had to. Until it was mandated, society ignored what wasn’t convenient. It’s the same story found with veterans that carries over to our everyday lives.  Despite companies claiming they “hire veterans,” over 50% leave their jobs within the first year, and as many as 80% within two years. Why? Because there’s no real support, no real understanding, no environment that meets them where they are. The trauma, hyper-vigilance, and radical transition veterans face isn’t something you just “re-assimilate” from.

“They don’t have any appreciation for that,  Dave shares in this one-of-a-kind podcast episode. “And when I speak out, I get gaslit. Instead of responding to the message, they critique the presentation.” Veterans don’t need more platitudes. They need structure, respect, and meaningful reintegration. Either society steps up willingly, or we legislate the changes required. All areas of the military, the Air Force, Navy, Marines, etc. Put all who enter through a period of “basic Training.” However, they are sent home with only a duffle bag and maybe a “thank you for your service, son”.

Real Leadership Meets People Where They Are

We often associate leadership with power, titles, or charisma. But as Dave shared, “the greatest leaders don’t sit at the top, they kneel, they listen, they wash feet.” Jesus washed feet. “Jesus met people where they were,” he said. “Nobody does that anymore. They judge you by your title, your bank account, or your access.” Leadership isn’t just influence—it’s empathy in action. It’s modeling accountability. It’s owning your mistakes. And it’s choosing to give back without strings.

Giving Shouldn’t Be Transactional

At this stage in his life, Dave offers his mentorship, talks, and time for free, not because he has to, but because he chooses. “Everything I do now, I offer for free. If you respect me and think I can contribute, I’ll show up.” He’s not building a brand. He’s building people. And that’s a radical act of love in a world that profits from burnout and isolation.

You Are the Starting Point

This entire conversation kept circling back to one truth: You are the beginning and end of your healing. “99 out of 100 things that happen to us, we swung the bat,” Dave said. “Stop gaslighting people. Own it.” Healing isn’t passive. It’s a choice, daily. It’s about finding inner peace through honesty, purity, and connection. And if you want clarity, if you want your wings, you’ve got to keep doing the work. We’re all putting our pieces together. We’re all on different timelines. But if we could meet each other with more grace, if we could stop assigning value based on status, we might actually start to heal forward, together. As one race, the human race.

Legacy Is the Real Measure of Success

As we both reflected on age, Dave turning 60 soon, I turning 58 today, we weren’t talking about time with fear. We were talking about what we choose to do with the time we have left. Do we leave a legacy of harm, disrespect, and self-service? Or do we leave something better—a culture of giving, truth-telling, and human-centered leadership?

As Dave shared, “You’re not defined by how many friends you have. You’re defined by how you make yourself feel.” That’s the work. And that’s the invitation for all of us.

Closing Thought

Whether you’re a veteran, a leader, or someone trying to build a meaningful life, it all begins and ends with you. Own the good. Own the bad. Do the work. Make the connection to your almighty Divine, and let them begin showing you the way.    “This is what healing forward looks like.”

Watch the entire podcast interview here.

 

In graceful gratitude,

~ Lesley pazdzioch