February 3, 2025

Dear Friends and Partners:


As February arrives, we find ourselves in the heart of winter, where life slows under heavy skies, yet expectations often burn brightly. Last month, I went on a memorable solo drive of over 20 hours to reconnect with friends and participate in a hunt in one of America’s most beautiful regions. While I always look forward to this trip, the hunt is unpredictable, influenced by weather and migration patterns.


During my drive through snow-covered landscapes, I wondered whether to hold onto grand expectations for the hunt or to temper them, understanding that life rarely offers certainty. As we enter February, many of us wrestle with the goals we set on New Year's Day. For some, January brought joy, while for others, it was a rocky start. If things haven't gone as planned, it's easy to feel disheartened, but it doesn't have to be this way.


The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:11-13 that our peace should not depend on outcomes but on a mindset of gratitude and faith. Leaders, like us all, are challenged to focus on what is rather than what could have been, utilizing the resources and opportunities at hand.


On my trip, the hunt didn’t go as hoped—the weather and migration patterns were against us. However, the camaraderie, laughter, and stories shared around the campfire became the true rewards. This experience taught me that when we embrace the moment rather than cling to unmet expectations, we find a different kind of abundance.


As leaders, friends, and individuals striving for fulfillment, we must learn to let go of rigid expectations. By doing so, we open ourselves to unexpected blessings and the richness of the present. As February unfolds, I encourage you to reflect on your expectations and seek the good in what you have. Celebrate small victories, warm friendships, and the beauty around you—these are the true gifts of life.

Stay Max Fab,


Dave


Dave Nordel, CMSgt, USAF (ret), RN, BSN, MS

Military Transition Coach, Keynote Motivational Speaker & Leadership Coach


CEO of Vet READY, a veteran-owned nonprofit (501c3) Give Today!


CEO of MaxFab Consulting

Phone: (307) 757-6310


getvetready.org  maxfabconsulting.com

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WHAT I'VE BEEN UP TO

This photo is of my unpredictable hunting trip in Arkansas. Taken from the duck blind!

THE KANGAROO LEADERSHIP PODCAST: NEW EPISODES

Episode #34: Sam Mitchell: Autism Rocks. A True Perspective


Sam Mitchell, creator, owner, host, voice, editor & Executive Director of Autism Rocks and Rolls was a fantastic guest. In high school, he found his podcasting passion and started his own. What started as a hobby soon got the world's attention. Sam now wants to change the perspective of autism, destigmatizing the negativity that often surrounds this type of brain wiring through his nonprofit Autism Rocks and Rolls. Tune in!

Episode #33: Henry Woodman: From the Lost City to American Entrepreneur


As a teenager, Henry embarked on an adventurous quest in the Honduran jungle, searching for a lost city—a journey that profoundly shaped his life and career. Henry is the co-founder of WoodMark Productions and creator of ICE Portal, a groundbreaking tech company in the travel industry. Henry's passion for storytelling culminated in his recent book, The Reincarnation of Marie, which he's developing into a TV series. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about adventure, creativity, and leadership!

Tune in!

Episode #32: Blanca Rodriguez: Don't Accept Your Situation, Change It!


I spoke with Blanca Rodriguez, the owner and CEO of Wounded Healer, LLC. Blanca's mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages. With 19 years as a licensed massage therapist and 8 years as a certified canine massage therapist, she also brings over 40 years of experience as a fitness and Zumba instructor. In our conversation, Blanca shares her inspiring journey from personal adversity to becoming a healer for others with similar experiences.

Tune in!

Real Conversations with Patricia:


In this compelling episode of Real Conversations with Patricia, we dive deep into my extraordinary journey in the United States Air Force as Command Chief Master Sergeant, emergency manager, mentor, and bestselling author. I talk about my humble beginnings in rural Northern California, leading nuclear missile forces and managing city-level emergencies. Tune in!

Get VET READY

The Vet READY training program engages all levels of organizations to strategically align veterans with their mission and values. VET READY reduces the cost of turnover and grows your bottom line. Build an inclusive environment for our veterans. Vet READY covers some costs through grant funding. Get Vet READY today!

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