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. 114: Edgar Jones on Transformation, Forgiveness, Growth, Life Lessons, and Football Stories
Meet Edgar Jones. He is a seven-year NFL Veteran, Professional Speaker, John Maxwell Certified Coach, and Author.
Edgar helps high performers apply championship-level strategies to lead more effectively without burning out.
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Quick Episode Summary:
Edgar Jones discusses growth, vulnerability, resilience, and healthy masculinity.
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SEO Description:
Passing The Torch podcast: Martin Foster interviews Edgar Jones on lessons in growth, transition, healthy masculinity, and the power of asking the right questions.
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🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights:
- Healthy masculinity and regulating emotions
- The impact of asking better questions in personal and professional growth
- Lessons learned from NFL experiences, addiction recovery, and mentorship
- The power of writing letters to your younger self
- The role of faith in navigating adversity
- A fun "Name Game" highlighting positive influences and leadership
- Actionable takeaways for building resilience and serving your community
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Chapters:
00:00 Connections and Friendships
07:43 Permission Before Pouring Insights
11:46 Curiosity Fuels Growth
20:12 Rumble Strips: Guidance and Accountability
25:41 Journey of Self-Discovery
30:16 Seeking Validation: The Red Dot
35:46 Edgar's Letter to Younger Self
42:05 Tragedy, Pain, and Coping
45:03 Checking In on High Achievers
50:55 "64: The Underdog Story"
54:55 Effort That Changed Everything
01:02:12 The Importance of Connection
01:04:53 Professional Speaker and Executive Coach
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Episode Sponsor:
Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.
If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com
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 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way
Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel
Meet Edgar Jones. He is a seven-year NFL Veteran, Professional Speaker, John Maxwell Certified Coach, and Author.
Edgar helps high performers apply championship-level strategies to lead more effectively without burning out.
-
Quick Episode Summary:
Edgar Jones discusses growth, vulnerability, resilience, and healthy masculinity.
-
SEO Description:
Passing The Torch podcast: Martin Foster interviews Edgar Jones on lessons in growth, transition, healthy masculinity, and the power of asking the right questions.
-
🌟 Torch Takeaways and Key highlights:
- Healthy masculinity and regulating emotions
- The impact of asking better questions in personal and professional growth
- Lessons learned from NFL experiences, addiction recovery, and mentorship
- The power of writing letters to your younger self
- The role of faith in navigating adversity
- A fun "Name Game" highlighting positive influences and leadership
- Actionable takeaways for building resilience and serving your community
-
Edgar's Resources:
➡︎ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonesedgar/
➡︎ Website: https://www.thelitcode.com/
➡︎ The High Performer's Reset: A Journal with 7 Essential Daily Prompts to Take You to the Next Level: https://amzn.to/49uRtiK
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Episode Mentions:
Maurice P. Kerry
Todd Simmons
Lakeydra Houston
Kaleth Wright (K-Wright)
Clint Bruce
Daniel Brenneman
Courtney Anderson
Jalen Parmele
Dez Bryant
Sean Lee
Marshawn Lynch
Patrick Willis
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Quotes:
“Your strength can be your kryptonite.”
“Treat everything like it’s your first project.” – Notorious BIG
“Do you have people in your life that they can handle the fuel you are pouring out?”
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Chapters:
00:00 Connections and Friendships
07:43 Permission Before Pouring Insights
11:46 Curiosity Fuels Growth
20:12 Rumble Strips: Guidance and Accountability
25:41 Journey of Self-Discovery
30:16 Seeking Validation: The Red Dot
35:46 Edgar's Letter to Younger Self
42:05 Tragedy, Pain, and Coping
45:03 Checking In on High Achievers
50:55 "64: The Underdog Story"
54:55 Effort That Changed Everything
01:02:12 The Importance of Connection
01:04:53 Professional Speaker and Executive Coach
-
Episode Sponsor:
Are you retiring or separating from the military soon? Looking for an alternative to Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)? Reach out to Dan Guzman Life Solutions, Dan is a 27-year United States Air Force veteran and retired Command Chief.
If you want coverage that makes sense, reach out today at danguzmanlifesolutions.com
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Podcast Summary: Passing The Torch – Edgar Jones Episode
In this compelling episode of Passing The Torch, host Martin Foster welcomes former NFL linebacker Edgar Jones for an honest, insightful conversation that interweaves personal growth, veteran transition, mental health, masculinity, and leadership.
The discussion opens with Martin Foster reflecting on his own recent military retirement and experiences in the veteran space, seamlessly connecting the journey to Edgar Jones’ background in both football and family's history with law enforcement. Edgar Jones shares how intentionality and thoughtfulness are key to showing appreciation and connecting with others.
A highlight is their deep dive into the meaningful “lawnmower story,” previously shared by Edgar Jones on another podcast, which resonates profoundly with Martin Foster. The story sparks reflection on healthy masculinity, self-worth, and questioning whether we’re pouring enough into others. Edgar Jones emphasizes the importance of asking permission before offering advice, showcasing the impact of quality questions in building genuine relationships.
The conversation shifts to growth and stagnation, with Edgar Jones explaining that growth begins with self-awareness and curiosity, while stagnation arises from defending old beliefs and not questioning oneself. Together, they explore how successful teams and individuals thrive by continuously evaluating and questioning both themselves and their processes.
Throughout, the pair emphasizes internal validation over external applause. Edgar Jones vividly describes his struggle with craving the “red dot” of recognition in the NFL, candidly sharing his battles with alcohol and painkillers, as well as the critical need for self-acknowledgement and forgiveness.
Key themes from the episode include:
- The power of thoughtfulness and attention as “currency”
- Pouring into others—asking if they’re ready, and being open to quality feedback
- The difference between healthy transition and true transformation beyond roles
- How strengths developed for survival can later become challenging to manage
- The importance of “rumble strips”—mentors and systems that keep us on track by asking tough questions
- The value of writing letters to your younger self as a healing and self-reflective exercise
- Internal validation, self-forgiveness, and the journey of personal growth after a major life transition
To wrap up, Martin Foster plays the “name game,” prompting Edgar Jones to share quick insights about influential people in his life and career, illustrating the importance of authenticity, passion, and thoughtfulness in personal and professional relationships.
The episode is packed with actionable wisdom, relatable stories, and a message of resilience. Whether you’re a former athlete, veteran, leader, or someone navigating change, this conversation will inspire you to reflect deeply, ask better questions, and invest in your own becoming.
Noteworthy Quotes & Takeaways:
- “Your strength can be your kryptonite.” – Edgar Jones
- “Do you have people in your life who can handle the fuel you are pouring out?” – Edgar Jones
- “Growth starts with awareness about yourself—and being curious enough about why you’re doing what you’re doing.” – Edgar Jones
- The “three (or five) C’s” for daily living: Create, Connect, Contribute, Compete, Contemplate
If you’re interested in coaching or a speaker with a message of connection and transformation, Edgar Jones welcomes referrals and future collaborations.
This episode is a masterclass in self-reflection, leadership, healthy masculinity, and moving from transition to genuine transformation.
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I appreciate all of you. - MF
