Going Big! with Kevin Gentry

On this episode of the Going Big! Podcast, host Kevin Gentry welcomes Brendan McCord—submariner, AI entrepreneur, and deep thinker—for a bold conversation on the biggest force shaping our future: artificial intelligence. Brendan helped write the Pentagon’s first AI strategy, built and sold two tech companies for over $400 million, and now leads the Cosmos Institute—a nonprofit reimagining AI’s role in advancing human flourishing. In this episode, he unpacks how we can go big with AI without losing what makes us human. You’ll hear Brendan’s journey from 610 days beneath the ocean to the front lines of defense innovation and finally to the frontiers of philosophy and public purpose. From decentralization and truth-seeking to why specialization is for ants, Brendan offers a radical vision for how builders and leaders can shape a future worth believing in. If you're serious about doing meaningful work at scale, this conversation will challenge you to aim higher—and go bigger.

At just 24 years old, Daniel Houghton became CEO of Lonely Planet, the world’s largest travel publisher—leading its transformation into the digital age and redefining what it means to explore the world. Now, as founder and CEO of The Travel Library, Daniel is curating an ever-growing collection of editorial travel content, personal destination guides, and inspirational itineraries for adventurers around the globe. In this episode of Going Big!, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Daniel to explore how bold thinking, creative risk-taking, and a deep passion for discovery shaped his extraordinary career. From humble beginnings in photojournalism to high-stakes leadership and cross-continental storytelling, Daniel shares what it really means to go big—on the road, in business, and in life. This is a conversation about trusting your gut, betting on your gifts, and building something meaningful in a world that moves fast. Whether you're dreaming of your next big trip or your next big leap, this episode will leave you inspired to go further than you thought possible.

What if everything you think you know about trade, tariffs, and the American economy is wrong? In this powerful and timely episode of Going Big, host Kevin Gentry sits down with renowned economist Don Boudreaux—former chair of the economics department at George Mason University and co-author of The Triumph of Economic Freedom—to dismantle some of the most persistent economic myths of our time. From the misunderstood trade deficit to the real impact of tariffs, Don makes the case for free exchange, open markets, and why true prosperity depends on economic freedom. Whether you're a policy wonk, business leader, or just someone trying to understand why prices are rising at the grocery store, this episode is a masterclass in clear economic thinking—and a reminder that going big means embracing ideas, not fear. 🎯 Want to go deeper? Don Boudreaux’s new book with former U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, The Triumph of Economic Freedom: Debunking the Seven Great Myths of American Capitalism, releases May 13, 2025. It’s a powerful, data-driven takedown of the most common misconceptions about trade, inequality, poverty, and more—and it reinforces exactly why economic freedom matters now more than ever. 📖 Pre-order it now on Amazon: The Triumph of Economic Freedom Let it challenge you. Let it equip you. Let it inspire you to Go Big with the truth. Click here:https://a.co/d/7ArScbk

How does someone with no media background build one of the most trusted conservative voices in America? Erick Erickson’s journey is a bold reminder that with faith, grit, and purpose, you don’t have to follow a traditional path to make a lasting impact. In this episode of the Going Big! Podcast, host Kevin Gentry talks with Erick about his unconventional rise from lawyer to blogger, from behind-the-scenes campaign work to national talk radio host. Along the way, he built a platform rooted in conviction—not popularity—and stayed true to his calling, even when it came at a cost. Erick shares the defining moments that shaped him—from walking away from law, launching RedState, and guest hosting for Rush Limbaugh, to speaking openly about his faith, battling personal trials, and trusting God with each step. Through it all, he reminds us that Going Big! isn’t about geography, credentials, or conformity—it’s about taking the leap, telling the truth, and leading with integrity. 🎧 Whether you're discerning your next step, facing a hard decision, or simply needing a reminder to stay the course, this conversation will inspire you to Go Big! with your voice, your values, and your life.

What does it take to not only believe in big ideas—but to win with them? In this episode of the Going Big! Podcast, host Kevin Gentry sits down with conservative icon Morton C. Blackwell, founder and president of the Leadership Institute, for a remarkable conversation about a life spent shaping leaders, building institutions, and going all-in for the causes that matter. With a career that spans decades—from being the youngest delegate for Barry Goldwater in 1964 to serving in the Reagan White House, and training over 320,000 conservative activists through the Leadership Institute—Blackwell shares timeless insights on what it truly means to Go Big! in life, leadership, and public service. Morton’s story is one of courage, strategy, humility, and impact. He reveals how effective change isn’t just about having the right philosophy—it’s about learning how to win. From mentoring future U.S. senators to cultivating a global network of values-based leaders, he reminds us that vision without action isn’t leadership—it’s wishful thinking. Whether you're an emerging leader, a seasoned strategist, or simply someone who wants to live with greater purpose, this episode is a roadmap to Going Big! the right way: with clarity, conviction, and a commitment to serving others. 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to build your foundation, study how to win, and Go Big! with your life’s work.

What does it mean to Go Big when the odds are stacked against you? In this powerful episode of the Going Big! Podcast, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Scott Strode, founder of The Phoenix, a free sober active community that is redefining recovery across the country. Scott shares his personal journey from addiction and adversity to climbing literal mountains—and building one of the most impactful recovery movements in America. With over 800,000 lives already touched and a bold goal to reach 10 million people, Scott opens up about the mindset, strategy, and heart it takes to scale something that truly matters. From boxing gyms to Himalayan peaks, from grassroots beginnings to national innovation, this episode is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose, and purpose into impact. Whether you're leading a nonprofit, building a business, or just taking your first step out of struggle, this is what Going Big looks like.   🌐 Learn more at ThePhoenix.org 📚 Read Scott’s story in Rise, Recover, Thrive 📱 Find support or get involved through the New Form app

In this landmark episode of the Going Big! Podcast, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Dr. Douglas Bradburn, historian and President & CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, for a sweeping conversation on leadership, legacy, and the enduring relevance of America’s founding father. What does it mean to Go Big! in a way that’s rooted in humility, preparation, and purpose? Through the life and character of George Washington, we explore not just how to lead—but how to lead well. From battlefield courage to political restraint, from nation-building to stepping away from power, Washington modeled a leadership philosophy grounded in merit and honor. And in this episode, Dr. Bradburn brings that philosophy to life in ways that speak directly to our own moment. We also dive into the story of Mount Vernon itself—how a group of visionary women preserved Washington’s home without government funds and helped establish America’s historic preservation movement. Under Bradburn’s leadership, Mount Vernon has become not just a symbol of the past, but a forward-facing institution using research, innovation, and storytelling to inspire a new generation. If you’ve ever wondered what principled, courageous, and honorable leadership looks like—or how to prepare yourself for your own moment to Go Big!—this episode offers both timeless wisdom and practical challenge. 🎧 Listen now and be reminded that real leadership doesn’t demand success—it earns it.

In this powerful episode of the Going Big Podcast, Tim Kersten sits down with host Kevin Gentry for a candid, wisdom-filled conversation about leadership, legacy, and the lifelong pursuit of excellence. With more than 40 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and marketing, Tim brings a rare combination of creative brilliance and deep humility to his role as Chairman and CEO of RKD Group—America’s largest direct response fundraising agency. From helping iconic institutions like the Salvation Army and the Smithsonian raise hundreds of millions of dollars to crafting messages that have moved hearts and sparked action, Tim has spent his career proving that the right words, delivered at the right moment, can change the world. But Going Big, as Tim shares, isn’t just about scale. It’s about courageous leadership, the power of storytelling, and staying rooted in purpose. He reflects on the mentors who shaped him, the importance of surrounding yourself with people smarter than you, and why real leaders must be both fearless and humble. This episode is a masterclass in building something that lasts—whether you’re leading a team, launching a cause, or simply trying to make your work more meaningful. If you’ve ever wondered how to move people, inspire trust, or lead with bold conviction, Tim’s story is one you won’t forget.  

What would you do if you weren’t afraid to fail? For Emily Seidel, that question reshaped everything—from her earliest doubts about leading a national grassroots movement to becoming the CEO of Americans for Prosperity, one of the most influential citizen-powered organizations in the country. In this episode of Going Big, Emily shares the deeply personal journey that brought her from answering phones on Capitol Hill to leading a team of 500 and mobilizing people across all 50 states. With vulnerability, wisdom, and resolve, she reflects on the power of saying yes to the uncomfortable, stepping into challenges without knowing all the answers, and trusting in a mission bigger than herself. Her story is a powerful reminder that real leadership isn’t about having all the credentials or a perfect plan—it’s about showing up, being willing to grow, and surrounding yourself with people who believe in the cause. Along the way, Emily unpacks the urgency behind protecting tax reform, the quiet strength of citizen advocacy, and how real change happens not from Washington headlines—but from the voices of everyday Americans who dare to believe they can make a difference. If you’ve ever felt the tug between playing it safe and stepping into something greater, this conversation is for you. It’s about conviction. It’s about courage. And it’s about what happens when you stop letting fear define your future—and start choosing to Go Big.

In a lively conversation, Jimmy Hutcheson, CEO of SPIN and Next Management Partners, shares his inspiring journey from a small-town upbringing to leading iconic brands. He delves into the impressive revitalization of SPIN, boosting its revenue and digital presence, while emphasizing the importance of innovation. Jimmy discusses the impactful One Million Strong initiative, merging art with addiction recovery in the music industry. He also explores the future of music amid AI advancements, urging bold moves and meaningful connections for success.