Ep. 153: Alani Bankhead - Break Free of the Mindsets that Keep You Hostage

Today, on the 23rd anniversary of the day following the 9/11 attacks, we remember one of the most heinous terrorist attacks in our history. In our final episode of the Unbeatable podcast, I'm honored to share Mark Clookie’s powerful story of resilience and bravery. As a former NCIS special agent, Mark was in the Pentagon when the building was attacked, and he lived through the chaos and uncertainty that followed. Mark will also take us through his time with NCIS, including his deployments in Bahrain and Okinawa, and his roles in Washington, D.C. Don’t miss our final episode of Unbeatable Podcast. Stay connected through our mobile app and on TV, where we'll launch new content soon.You’ll hear:Mark highlights the differences between the TV show NCIS and the real work of NCIS agents.The NCIS has a broad mission that includes investigating felony crimes, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and counter-trafficking operations.Mark shares his experience of being in the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks and the importance of intelligence gathering and communication during times of crisis.How he was involved in combating human trafficking through organizations like the International Justice Mission and Prevention Now.What you can do to combat human trafficking in your own way.Learn More About Mark ClookieJoin Jeff Struecker Ministries CommunityLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

Imagine losing your dad to cancer, and watching your family's multi-billion dollar real estate business crumble during the Great Recession. It's a devastating combination that would shake anyone's foundation. But for Damon Lembi, this was just the beginning of his journey. From the diamond to the boardroom, Damon Lembi's journey is one of unlikely twists and turns. A former pro baseball player turned CEO of Learn It, he's learned that success is not just about achieving your dreams, but about persevering through failures and setbacks. In this conversation, Damon shares his unorthodox path, from battling imposter syndrome to embracing hard work and deliberate practice. He'll also discuss the importance of transferable skills, leadership, and resilience - and how these lessons can be applied to any field or situation.You’ll hear:How to handle challenges with resilience and determination.Why failure is a valuable learning opportunity.He shares his unorthodox path, from battling imposter syndrome to embracing hard work and deliberate practice. Damon discusses the humbling experience of starting at the receptionist level in his family's company and the valuable lessons he learned from it. How he started his company- Learn It. Visit LearnItFollow Damon LembiLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

With a lack of self-confidence and a fear of being alone, Jenny settled into her first marriage, only to discover that her husband was a serial adulterer. For years, she struggled to come to terms with the pain and betrayal she felt, and it wasn't until she found the courage to leave that she began to rebuild her life. Today, Jenny shares her incredible story of transformation, from feeling trapped in an unhappy marriage to finding happiness and self-worth again.You’ll hear:Going through a painful divorce can be worse than death, as it involves the death of a dream and the challenge of self-blame.The importance of facing the pain and allowing oneself to grieve.Leaving a marriage takes courage and a belief in one's self-worth, even in the face of societal judgment.Rebuilding after divorce requires self-reflection, counseling, and support from loved ones.Creating a list of desired qualities in a future partner can help individuals make informed decisions and avoid repeating past mistakes.Follow Jenny AlexanderLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

Samantha was living her best life, thriving as a successful author, single mom, and business owner. She was in her prime, with a bright future ahead of her. But everything changed in 2017 when she was involved in a devastating car accident after a truck collided with her vehicle. The injuries she sustained from the accident left her with chronic pain, and further diagnosis revealed that she had Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and cranial cervical instability (CCI). In this episode, Samantha shares how she fought for her life and used crowdfunding to raise almost £750,000 for life-saving surgery.Learn about Samantha's experience with crowdfunding and raising funds for life-saving surgeryHear about her journey with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and cranial cervical instability (CCI)Discover the challenges she faced in getting a proper diagnosis and treatmentFind out how she maintained a positive mindset during her recoveryGet inspiration from her story of resilience and determinationFollow Samantha LouLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

In one of the most critical and intense missions of her career, Alani Bankhead was part of a team that neutralized three females wearing suicide vests and plotting an attack. This daring operation required precision, skill, and bravery, and high-stakes espionage. But Alani's work didn't stop there. She has also dedicated herself to fighting human trafficking and exploitation, using her expertise to identify and disrupt trafficking networks around the world. Her work has taken her to the darkest corners of the internet, where she has tracked down and dismantled criminal organizations that prey on the vulnerable.But what's striking about Alani's story is her admission to struggling with imposter syndrome throughout her career. Despite her impressive accomplishments, she often felt like she didn't truly belong in the male-dominated field of military intelligence. She shares with us how she learned to overcome these doubts and find her confidence, and how she became one of the most respected agents in the business.Alani's experience as the daughter of a foreign affairs officer in South America where she witnessed the impact of narco-trafficking.The challenges and rewards of working in the field, including the difficulty of developing trust with sources.Learn how Alani Bankhead uses her expertise to track down and dismantle criminal organizations that prey on the vulnerable.Listen to how you can help possible victims of trafficking by observing and acting.Alani's experience with imposter syndrome will resonate with anyone who's ever felt like they don't belong in their own skin.Follow Alani BankheadLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

What would you do if you woke up one day unable to move? That’s the reality Matthew Lemke faced on January 5th, 2016, when a life-changing surgery left him a quadriplegic at just 23 years old. Diagnosed with Arnold Chiari malformation, syringomyelia, and an arachnoid cyst in 2015, Matthew made the difficult decision to undergo brain decompression surgery. The procedure, intended to alleviate his condition, instead brought an unimaginable challenge—he had to relearn everything from scratch.But Matthew is no stranger to perseverance — he refused to give up, turning his greatest challenge into a story of resilience and faith.The intense daily struggles that people with Arnold Chiari malformation often face, including significant physical pain and emotional adjustments.The toughest challenge of living with paralysis and having to relearn everything from the ground up.The impact of Matthew's medical journey on his relationships.Matthew highlights the significance of faith and trusting in God during tough times.How his resilience is captured in his book, Faith Over Fear, which he successfully placed in Walmart and even caught the attention of actor Chris Pratt.Get a Copy of Faith Over FearFollow Matthew LemkeLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

When Diane Sorensen's 17-year-old daughter began self-harming, Diane confronted their generational trauma. Growing up constantly scrutinized, Diane sought approval through performance, a pattern she carried into adulthood. Now a certified transformational life coach, she emphasizes self-love and acceptance. Founder of the Beautiful Behavior Coaching Programs and host of the Beautiful Behavior Podcast, Diane helps others break free from destructive patterns and embrace authenticity. Tune in to hear her inspiring story of transformation.You’ll hear:Find out how to break free from inherited behaviors and cycles that have shaped your life.See how understanding your actions as a parent can help you build a stronger bond with your children.How her lowest point became her catalyst for real change.Discover what inspired Diane to start the Beautiful Behavior Coaching Programs.Get tips on how to embrace and love yourself unapologetically.Learn more about Diane SorensenLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

A DUI accident led Adam Hill to Alcoholics Anonymous, where he began his transformation from addiction to Ironman triathlete. Struggling with anxiety and alcoholism, Adam found strength in community and therapy. He shares insights on overcoming fear, the pressures of leading a multi-generational family business, and the importance of clear communication and structure. Discover how Adam turned his life around, embracing fear to achieve personal and professional success.You’ll hear:How his casual drinking turned into severe alcoholism and took a toll on every part of life.Why facing fear and pushing through discomfort is essential for growth. How he navigated the pressure of upholding a successful family legacy.His secret on how he leads his 100 year old company through economic change, cultural change, and leadership change on the path from 8 to 9 figures. How he started his podcast– The Flow Over Fear Podcast.Learn more about Adam HillLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

Colonel Richard “Bucky” Mendelow opens up about the profound impact of losing his best friend and roommate, George, and how this tragedy taught him about resilience and the importance of relationships. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Colonel Mendelow recalls his family's move to the United States in 1976 and the pivotal moments that led him to join the military. He shares captivating stories from his time as a pilot, especially the intense challenges of landing on an aircraft carrier.Richard also talks about his personal faith and how it transformed his life. Tune in as we dive into the extraordinary life of Colonel Mendelow, filled with lessons on perseverance, faith, and the power of human connections.You’ll hear:The importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities in Colonel Mendelow's move to the US.Colonel Mendelow's dedication to service and leadership as a Marine Corps pilot.Reflections on resilience and the impact of relationships in overcoming adversity.How Colonel Mendelow's experience with grief led to personal growth and deeper understanding.Colonel Mendelow's journey to a personal relationship with God and how he shares his faith in his podcast “Courageous Christianity.”Learn more about Richard MendelowLeave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE

Daniel Corbett III, a former elite Navy SEAL from SEAL Teams 5, 6, and 17, has transitioned into authorship and entrepreneurship. Enlisting in 2002, Corbett served in Iraq and globally with SEAL Team 6, experiencing the intense demands and rigorous standards of the unit. Post-Navy, he faced an 18-month wrongful imprisonment in Serbia, accused of plotting to assassinate the president. His book, 'American Mercenary,' explores his journey from military service to private contracting, offering a unique insider's perspective.Daniel shares insights on:Life within a SEAL team, highlighting the rigorous training process, the selection criteria, and the notorious Hell Week.The harrowing ordeal of his wrongful imprisonment in Belgrade, Serbia.The relentless pace and high standards of SEAL Team 6.The challenges faced by Private Military Contractors.How his book, 'American Mercenary,' sheds light on the transition from military life to private contracting.Get your copy of American Mercenary Leave a review of this podcast on your favorite platform; it helps us get these stories out to more people who need to hear them!To give specific feedback directly to us on what you like about the podcast and what you don’t, fill out this 5-minute survey.Don’t let fear win. Get your FREE copy of the Unbeatable Army Survival Guide HERE