Frontline Voices

Army veteran Robin Phoenix Johnson, Hoover's Veteran fellow from the class of 2024-2025, shares her journey from enlisted soldier to officer, mom, stand-up comedian, and mental health advocate. After a 26-year military career, Robin found her new mission: helping others heal through humor. She discusses the origins of her comedy journey, the science behind laughter as therapy, and how her program Hilarious helps veterans and frontl...

In this episode, Mike sits down with Chris McKay, founder of Maginative, to unpack the urgent need for AI literacy, especially in underserved and underrepresented communities. They discuss how AI is reshaping work, education, warfare, and daily life, and why just knowing what AI can do isn’t enough. From building chatbots to reimagining classrooms, this is a candid conversation about the world we’re already living in and the future...

Two Marine Corps veterans and Hoover Fellows, Dave Winnacker and Donnie Hasseltine, break down California’s wildfire crisis—not from a sensational angle, but with sharp insight on what’s really at stake. They reveal how outdated fire strategies, rising insurance costs, and inaction are creating a perfect storm that could implode the state’s housing market. Drawing from their Hoover fellowship capstone, they explain why the solution...

In this powerful episode, Navy veteran and middle school principal Trevor Clayton joins Frontline Voices to share how his military service prepared him for the battle to transform public education. Trevor opens up about his childhood influences, the moment he knew he wanted to teach, and the challenges students face in Title I schools. From celebrating small wins to fighting harmful labels, Trevor breaks down how he and his team in...

In this inspiring episode of Frontline Voices, Dr. Condoleezza Rice joins the show to discuss the origins of the Hoover Institution’s Veteran Fellowship Program and the themes from her book Extraordinary, Ordinary People. She reflects on the power of mentorship, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why every veteran, regardless of background—deserves a seat at the table. Dr. Rice also opens up about her upbringing in segregated Birmin...

In this powerful episode of Frontline Voices, Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew shares the realities of community policing, leadership under crisis, and the long road to building trust. From the heartbreaking response to a school shooting to managing protests after George Floyd’s death, Chief Drew reflects on lessons learned, the role of youth engagement, and the urgent need for collective responsibility. His approach reminds us...

In this powerful and personal episode of Frontline Voices, IRON Mike Steadman sits down with Matthew Brown, Navy veteran and founder of Chimney Trail Health, to talk about the often invisible battle veterans and high performers face: mental health. They unpack the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the hidden costs of unresolved trauma, and the real-world impact of suicide in their communities. Mike shares a vulnerable st...

In this inaugural episode of Frontline Voices, host “IRON” Mike Steadman is joined by fellow Hoover Veteran Fellow alumnus Greg Eason. Mike opens up about his journey from growing up in a single-parent household, to becoming a Marine Corps officer, entrepreneur, and community leader. Together, they explore the idea of “normalizing excellence,” how their lived experiences shaped their outlook, and what it means to be a change-maker ...