S10E6 - Badges, Beers, and Big Pivots; What If Your Network Is Your Mission?!?

A badge check at a conference door turned into a friendship and then into a mission. We crack open beers and a big story with James: from his early Air Force days in tactical communications to earning a Bronze Star, to laying down the wiring (literal and figurative) that keeps communities connected. 

The path runs through Podfest’s early years, the mentors who made room, and the hard-won lessons that turn “event planning” into community architecture.

We dig into why creators in and around the military need their own stage, and how Military Creator Con is being built to serve them. Think practical workshops for podcasters and new‑media makers, real talk from founders and inventors solving tough problems, and space for comedians and musicians to bring the culture alive. 

Expect opening socials, a Friday party with military‑connected performers, a casino night for easy connection, and programming designed to turn chance meetings into real collaboration. If you’re a veteran, spouse, ally, or supporter with something to build or a story that teaches then this is your room.

There’s heart here too. We honor the legacy of Navy veteran and podcasting pioneer Todd Cochrane, and we talk honestly about the nomad life, partnership, and the grit it takes to keep moving without losing your center. The through line is simple: people first, ego last, and an open door for independent voices who want to make useful work. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to step up—pitch a talk, sponsor with purpose, or book that trip—consider this your nudge. Subscribe, share this with a creator who should be on that stage, and leave a review with the one connection you’re most excited to make.

Here’s the link to learn more about Military Creator Con 

Chapters

• 0:00 Mic Check, Cold Beers, Warm Banter
• 2:10 The Badge Standoff That Sparked a Friendship
• 6:55 Inside Podfest: History and Evolution
• 9:40 Birth of Military Creator Con
• 12:20 Why Build Events Despite the Grind
• 16:30 Power of Community, Not Just Money
• 19:50 Service Story: Air Force to Bronze Star
• 24:30 Ebola Response and Quiet Leadership
• 28:10 Season Ten: Growth, Pivots, Rebrands
• 31:00 Gifts, Inside Jokes, and Gratitude
• 34:20 How Relationships Shape Careers
• 38:15 Nomad Life, Partnership, and Balance
• 43:20 Calling Creators: Speakers, Sponsors, Acts
• 47:10 What We’re Curating in Texas 2026
• 51:30 On Stage or Backstage: Using Your Voice
• 55:40 Remembering Todd Cochrane