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.

Season Four of Forged in Fire begins by turning the spotlight inward.

In this welcome episode, host Liz Cavallaro is joined by rotating co-host Itay Bailey and members of the Forged in Fire volunteer team for a candid, reflective conversation about the leadership culture behind the season. Rather than focusing on titles or credentials, this episode explores the yes moments—the personal, often quiet decisions that lead people to step up, serve, and build something meaningful together.

Executive Producer Kirsten Pecua, guest researcher Trinity Downing, and guest relations lead Robert Garrett share why they said yes to this work, how lived experience shapes their leadership, and what it looks like to lead without recognition, authority, or a microphone. Together, they reflect on empathy, trust, patience, burnout, boundaries, and the kind of leadership that happens behind the scenes—especially in uncertain times.

This episode sets the tone for Season Four: leadership shaped through challenge, reflection, and lived experience, built by people who believe leadership begins long before a title and often without applause.

Leadership coach and educator Jon Lovitz joins Forged in Fire to talk about growth, humility, and what it really means to lead over time. From navigating uncertainty to learning when to step back and create space for others, Jon’s perspective challenges traditional ideas of authority and success. He shares lessons on self-awareness, trust, and adaptability, and reminds us that leadership is not about control or titles, but about presence, curiosity, and protecting what matters most. Jon’s journey reinforces that leadership is a practice—and that leading well starts with knowing yourself.

Tech leader, author, and trans advocate Erica Vogel joins Forged in Fire to talk about authenticity, vulnerability, and how a lifetime of solving problems shaped her leadership. From growing up without the language to describe her identity to leading global change initiatives at a Fortune 25 company, Erica’s journey shows that self-acceptance is both personal work and professional superpower. She shares lessons on storytelling, self-awareness, and the balance between openness and self-protection and reminds us that the key to leading well is to protect your peace.

Former Palm Springs mayor Lisa Middleton has spent her life breaking barriers—from working-class roots to the halls of California politics. In this episode, she joins Bree, Liz, and Eduardo to talk about courage, self-acceptance, and the art of listening as a tool for leadership. Lisa shares what it means to stand firm against hate, to build coalitions across difference, and to leave the next generation with a brighter, braver torch to carry forward.

“Our uniqueness isn’t a problem to solve—it’s what makes the world interesting.”

-Lisa Middleton

JD Schramm’s journey, from a Kansas childhood steeped in faith, through addiction and despair, to becoming one of the country’s foremost voices on authentic communication, is proof that the darkest nights can forge the brightest leaders.

JD reveals the personal crucible that shaped his philosophy: surviving a suicide attempt, reclaiming authenticity, and helping others find their voice. JD breaks down his audience-intent-message model, his “four C’s” of competence, confidence, clarity, and connection, and how queer leaders can balance empathy with impact. His call to action is simple but profound—be the torchbearer when the world feels dark.