In this special episode of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Command Sergeant Major Kissee as she reflects on an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades of dedicated military service, just ahead of her retirement. From her early life and entry into the Army to shaping policy, mentoring Soldiers, and helping lead the force toward greater inclusion, CSM Kissee shares powerful insights into leadership, resilience, and purpose.

This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a trailblazer whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of Soldiers.

Episode Timeline

• 00:00 Introduction
• 05:31 Leadership Style
• 07:10 Early Life & Background
• 13:42 Early Service & Education
• 18:55 Judge Advocate General Recruitment Experience
• 23:37 Paralegal Warrior Training Course
• 26:44 Growing as a Versatile Enlisted Paralegal
• 31:12 The Most Rewarding Aspects of the Job
• 34:14 The Army’s Path Toward Inclusion
• 38:18 Career Awards & Recognition
• 46:25 Future Policy Considerations
• 50:34 Reflections & Closing Remarks

A must-listen episode honoring leadership, service, and a remarkable career.

Video by Jean-Baptiste Kanangwe

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge Podcast, we sit down with Mr. Steve R. Ortiz Jr., Staff Operations Training Officer (SOTO) at the 311th ESC, for a powerful conversation on service, leadership, and mindset. With three decades of experience, Mr. Ortiz shares his journey from the Army Reserve to becoming a Department of Defense civilian, offering insight into his day-to-day responsibilities and the lessons learned along the way. He reflects on the lasting influence of his mother’s legacy, the importance of family support, and the core principles that continue to guide his life and service..This episode is a thoughtful discussion on purpose, resilience, and maintaining the right mindset every day..Timestamps:00:00 Introduction05:22 Three Decades of Service18:05 From Army Reserve to DoD Civilian25:43 Day-to-Day Responsibilities35:35 Carrying Forward a Mother’s Legacy43:23 Family Support and Service48:18 Core Principles for Life and Service54:24 Daily Mindset01:01:49 Closing Remarks.Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, service, and personal growth.

In Episode 13 of The Centurion Lounge, we sit down with Brig. Gen. Sparks, former Commanding General of the 311th ESC, for an open and powerful conversation about leadership, family, service, and the mindset that shapes great Soldiers.

From his early motivations to join the Army to the values that guided his command, Brig. Gen. Sparks reflects on character, integrity, and the pursuit of a “Culture of Better.” He shares personal stories about family days, road trips, work-life balance, and the lessons learned over a distinguished career—along with insights on Mojave Falcon 2025 and the future of the force.

Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
03:20 – The Man Behind the Uniform
09:40 – Friday & Sunday Family Days
15:39 – The Spark That Led to the Army
23:06 – Work-Life Balance
31:13 – Military Occupational Specialty
35:15 – Family Time & Road Trips
40:54 – Mindset, Character & Growth
47:49 – Mojave Falcon 2025
01:04:23 – The Culture of Better
01:12:43 – Leading with Law & Integrity
01:22:41 – Brig. Gen. Sparks’s Legacy
01:25:09 – Closing Remarks & Shoutout

Tune in for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. (Video by U.S Army Staff Sgt. Kanangwe, Jean-Baptsite)