Passing The Torch with Martin Foster
Welcome to Passing The Torch, a personal development podcast that’s about the journey, not just the destination.
This show is a conversation with people who inspire me — thought leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, authors, and others who are constantly evolving and learning about themselves. I’m not pretending to have it all figured out, and that’s what makes this podcast different. As I navigate my own personal growth and discover new tools, insights, and stories that are helping me, I’m bringing you along for the ride.
I believe that when it comes to self-improvement, we don’t always need to hear from someone who has already "arrived" at their ideal self. Instead, we can find power in connecting with people who are in the trenches alongside us, figuring things out as they go. Passing The Torch is an opportunity for both of us to learn, grow, and share in real-time.
Every episode, I sit down with individuals from all walks of life — from CEOs and best-selling authors to Special Forces Operators, friends, and elite athletes — and we dive deep into the lessons they’ve learned, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the wisdom they’ve gained. Along the way, I’ll be sharing my own experiences and insights from my personal development journey.
Whether you’re someone who’s looking for guidance or simply enjoy hearing raw, honest stories of transformation, Passing The Torch offers something for everyone. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about sharing what we’ve learned and helping each other move forward.
Join me on this adventure. Let's pass the torch together.
Passing The Torch with Martin Foster
Ep. 77: Every Sunset Eventually Leads to Sunrise with Rachel Oswalt
Rachel Oswalt is a US Navy veteran who served 6.5 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician. In her time served she not only experienced her own challenges within the military mental health system, but also witnessed countless shipmates who dealt with similar struggles. After losing 3 shipmates to suicide in a short span of time she decided that enough was enough and created a platform for military and veterans to share their stories, speak their truth, and bring awareness to the many issues surrounding military mental health. Your Story Doesn’t End Here was launched in 2021 and Rachel continues to use the podcast as well as a voice to advocate for those who can’t advocate for themselves.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster talks with Rachel Oswalt, a passionate advocate for mental health within the military community. Rachel shares insights from her journey as a U.S. Navy veteran and host of the podcast "Your Story Doesn't End Here." They dive into topics like transitioning to civilian life, the challenges of maintaining mental wellness, and the power of vulnerability in storytelling.
Rachel reveals her plans to shift her podcast to a nonprofit model to further support military mental health. She reflects on her personal growth over the past few years and how sharing stories can help others feel less alone. The episode is filled with inspiring moments and reminders about resilience and self-compassion.
The conversation wraps up with lighthearted questions about personal growth and Rachel's thoughts on the future. Overall, Rachel's story and insights provide meaningful takeaways for listeners about embracing change and supporting mental health in the military community.
Topics:
05:07 Purposeful Business for Community Impact
06:57 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
11:16 Changing the World: A Collective Effort
15:20 Mixed Feelings on Military Service
17:54 Inauthenticity Among People
21:18 Generational Stigma: Embracing Vulnerability
26:05 Healing Through Sharing Stories
29:55 Military Life: Daily Dopamine Rush
33:30 Stagnant Post-Military Journey
36:17 Overcoming Stagnation Through Small Changes
38:35 Overcoming Uncertainty and Stuckness
42:34 "Inspiration Needed on Military Bases"
Connect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartin
More Amazing Stories:
Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You Insecure
Episode 49: Ryan Hawk – Crafting a Legacy of Leadership
Episode 52: Riley Tejcek – Mission of Empowerment and Endurance
Rachel Oswalt is a US Navy veteran who served 6.5 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician. In her time served she not only experienced her own challenges within the military mental health system, but also witnessed countless shipmates who dealt with similar struggles.
After losing 3 shipmates to suicide in a short span of time she decided that enough was enough and created a platform for military and veterans to share their stories, speak their truth, and bring awareness to the many issues surrounding military mental health.
Your Story Doesn’t End Here was launched in 2021 and Rachel continues to use the podcast as well as a voice to advocate for those who can’t advocate for themselves.
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🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Passing The Torch," host Martin Foster talks with Rachel Oswalt, a passionate advocate for mental health within the military community. Rachel shares insights from her journey as a U.S. Navy veteran and host of the podcast "Your Story Doesn't End Here." They dive into topics like transitioning to civilian life, the challenges of maintaining mental wellness, and the power of vulnerability in storytelling.
Rachel reveals her plans to shift her podcast to a nonprofit model to further support military mental health. She reflects on her personal growth over the past few years and how sharing stories can help others feel less alone. The episode is filled with inspiring moments and reminders about resilience and self-compassion.
The conversation wraps up with lighthearted questions about personal growth and Rachel's thoughts on the future. Overall, Rachel's story and insights provide meaningful takeaways for listeners about embracing change and supporting mental health in the military community.
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A few highlights you don't want to miss:
- Family and Life Changes: Rachel shares why life is truly great right now and how her family plays a pivotal role in that joy. With a daughter turning three and another child on the way, life’s changes are a profound reminder to embrace the present.
- Podcast Milestones: Congratulations are in order as Rachel's podcast marks its three-year anniversary. Discover how she’s successfully nurtured over 160 episodes, fostering a community centered around honesty and healing.
- The Nonprofit Journey: Rachel opens up about her plans to transition her podcast to a nonprofit model in 2024. She discusses her motivations, the challenges she’s faced, and why this move aligns with her mission to maximize impact in military mental health advocacy.
- Resilience and Growth: Martin and Rachel discuss the importance of evolving through personal growth and how storytelling can empower others. Rachel candidly shares how her own story continues to shape her perspective on resilience.
- Vulnerability as a Healing Tool: Gain insights into why vulnerability is essential for healing—for both the storyteller and the listener. Rachel offers advice to those hesitant about sharing their stories and emphasizes the strength found in transparency.
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🔥 Resources
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Website: https://ysdeh.com/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ysdeh/
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🔥 Timecodes
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05:07 Purposeful Business for Community Impact
06:57 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
11:16 Changing the World: A Collective Effort
15:20 Mixed Feelings on Military Service
17:54 Inauthenticity Among People
21:18 Generational Stigma: Embracing Vulnerability
26:05 Healing Through Sharing Stories
29:55 Military Life: Daily Dopamine Rush
33:30 Stagnant Post-Military Journey
36:17 Overcoming Stagnation Through Small Changes
38:35 Overcoming Uncertainty and Stuckness
42:34 "Inspiration Needed on Military Bases"
