In this episode of Forged in Fire, we sit down with Major General (Ret.) Tammy Smith, a trailblazing leader whose career was shaped not only by service, but by the courage to lead authentically in moments of profound institutional change.

From her early years navigating leadership in a rigid and tradition-bound military, to becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ general officer following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” Tammy shares what it means to lead while carrying both visibility and responsibility. She reflects on “leading from the closet,” the personal cost of compartmentalization, and the pivotal moments that forced her to reconcile identity, values, and service.

This conversation explores the evolution from honesty to true authenticity, the weight of being first, and the reality that leadership is not just about outcomes, but about how fully you show up. Tammy also offers insight into inclusive leadership, the power of representation, and why resilience continues to drive both the veteran and LGBTQ+ communities forward.

This is a conversation about courage, growth, and the kind of leadership that doesn’t separate identity from service—but integrates it fully.

In this powerful return to Forged in Fire, retired U.S. Space Force Colonel Bree Fram joins the team—this time on the other side of the mic—to reflect on a leadership journey shaped by service, identity, and courage under pressure. From helping build the Space Force from the ground up to navigating deeply personal and institutional challenges, Bree shares what it truly means to lead with authenticity in environments that don’t always make space for it.

The conversation explores the tension between tradition and innovation, the responsibility of leaders to challenge broken systems, and the reality that integrity is often tested in quiet, uncomfortable moments—not just bold, visible ones. Bree offers candid insights into advocating for change from both inside and outside institutions, the emotional weight of public service, and why vulnerability is not weakness, but one of leadership’s greatest strengths.

Grounded in lived experience, this episode is a call to action for anyone striving to lead with purpose. Whether you’re in uniform, public service, or your local community, Bree reminds us that leadership isn’t about status or noise—it’s about character, connection, and the courage to stand up, again and again, for what’s right.

In this episode of Forged in Fire, Dr. Liz Cavallaro and guest co-host Eduardo Placer sit down with Milwaukee Alderman Peter Burgelis to explore what leadership looks like when it happens in full view of the people you serve.

From knocking on thousands of doors to pointing out potholes on a neighbor’s street, Peter reflects on leading in one of the most immediate and accountable forms of government. Local office, he reminds us, isn’t about party labels — “We don’t have Democratic potholes or Republican snowplows.” It’s about problem-solving, public safety, and earning trust one conversation at a time .

Peter shares how his immigrant roots, his grandmother’s quiet wisdom, and his early career in community lending shaped his belief that leadership is fundamentally about service. He discusses becoming the first out elected official on the Milwaukee County Board, launching a sweeping recognition effort for LGBTQ+ leaders, and passing legislation to ensure the Intersex Progress Pride flag flies at every county and city building during Pride Month. A letter from an intersex resident who finally felt “seen” by government captures why representation — and visibility — matters.

This conversation weaves together themes of neighborliness, courage, accountability, and endurance. It’s about showing up. It’s about refusing to give up. And it’s about understanding that leadership isn’t forged in grand speeches — it’s forged in daily decisions, shared streets, and the commitment to serve every neighbor, every route, every time.

If you’ve ever wondered what leadership looks like at ground level, this episode is for you.