For as long as he can remember, Derek Oaks wanted to fly fighters in the Air Force. After graduating from the Air Force Academy, he realized that dream...and then some. He wound up flying the fearsome A-10 "Warthog" close air support fighter -- a friend to "ground pounders" and a nightmare to any enemy tanks foolish enough to challenge it.

During his 25 year career in the Air Force, Derek learned a thing or two about leadership and how to be successful in business. In this episode, Neal and Derek unpack these leadership lessons and how to become a leader of purpose. Hint: it starts with having a vision and being able to effectively communicate your vision to your team and stakeholders across the enterprise.

From his early days fresh out of college, Jim Hundley discovered a passion for building successful businesses. From marine construction, medical devices, and then on to commercial construction, Jim has continually exhibited the drive and entrepreneurial spirit needed to both survive--and thrive--in the business world. In this episode, Jim talks about his journey in construction, being an entrepreneur, and what it takes to be a senior leader in a growing construction enterprise (Thomas Construction). One key to success: focusing on your talent and investing in their growth!

Paul Carney, the Chief HR Officer of Carter Bank & Trust, is "The Great Triangulator. He thrives at the intersection of business, HR, and technology. He's also the author of the best-selling book "Move Your Ash." Listen to Paul talk about his various "course corrections" as a business builder and integrator and what it takes to be successful in business and the HR discipline.

Bo Burch is not your typical HC professional. He took the path less traveled by way of farming and construction to eventually land in corporate HR after graduating from college. Along the way, he's "been there, done there" to include working in manufacturing, unionized environments, and starting his own successful executive search and consulting business. Tune in to hear about Bo's journey within the world of Human Capital management and discover how you can promote honor and respect in your workplace.