How Carrying the Load Built Unshakable Leadership – Justin Baucum on Resilience, Special Ops, and Rewriting Your Path
SEND DAN A TEXT In this powerful episode of The Unbreakable Mission, Dan sits down with Justin Baucum, former Special Forces operator, leader, and mission-minded professional, to unpack what it really takes to build resilience, own your story, and lead through uncertainty. From growing up in China as a missionary kid to working his way up from the fry line at Chick-fil-A to managing a team, Justin shares how each experience shaped his adaptability, leadership, and mindset. He opens up about t...
In this powerful episode of The Unbreakable Mission, Dan sits down with Justin Baucum, former Special Forces operator, leader, and mission-minded professional, to unpack what it really takes to build resilience, own your story, and lead through uncertainty.
From growing up in China as a missionary kid to working his way up from the fry line at Chick-fil-A to managing a team, Justin shares how each experience shaped his adaptability, leadership, and mindset. He opens up about the grueling process of becoming a Green Beret, being told “you’re not going to pass” day after day, and how he used those moments to fuel his growth instead of back down.
Whether you're facing your own transition, navigating the unknown, or simply want a blueprint for showing up when you're the most junior person in the room, this episode delivers. You’ll hear stories of grit, humility, and action—from tying knots in selection to choosing to carry the heaviest load—literally and figuratively.
Topics we cover:
- Growing up between cultures and developing global awareness
- How Chick-fil-A became an unexpected leadership training ground
- What Special Forces selection teaches about true value and team dynamics
- Lessons in failure, feedback, and carrying your weight
- Course-correcting when life doesn’t go as planned
Listener Challenge: What’s one area in your life where you can stop waiting and start carrying the load today?
Want to be a guest on The Unbreakable Mission? Send Dan Woerheide a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1744747257604091467993f04
Thank you for listening!
I'd love to invite you to share any feedback or insights with me dan@danw.us
To your success!
Dan
Justin Baucum
GM
Raised in China as a missionary kid, I learned to navigate diverse cultures, a skill I now apply to lead a precision machine shop in Dallas. Podcast listeners will discover how global perspectives fuel innovation in today’s tech-driven world. As a former US Army Special Forces Operator, I led teams through complex missions, sharpening creative problem-solving under pressure. Your audience will learn how military discipline translates to business, driving bold decisions and efficiency.
With an MBA and Master of Organizational Leadership, I’ve transformed operations at Credera, streamlining processes, and enhanced delivery programs at Amazon. These experiences offer practical insights for entrepreneurs and leaders navigating change. As a husband and father of two daughters, I balance ambition with purpose, sharing relatable lessons on leading with integrity.
Whether your audience loves tech, leadership, or inspiring stories, my journey—from China’s vibrant streets to combat zones to the factory floor—delivers actionable takeaways for thriving in a fast-changing world.