Airman Pulse

A weekly podcast featuring analysis of issues critical to Airmen with experts currently serving in and retired from the U.S. Air Force.

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What You Can’t Teach About Leadership

Airman Pulse
Mike Manning and Debra Lovette
August 20, 2026

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Episode Notes:

Debra Lovette sits down with Col. Mike Manning (ret.), whose 34-year Air Force career carried him from prior enlisted security forces through acquisitions, satellite programs, and instructing at Officer Training School. They discuss the difference between management and real leadership, why the hardest conversations are often the most caring ones, and how a single mentor can shape the kind of officer someone chooses to become.

Image: Robert Dantzler via DVIDS