Episode 217

full
Published on:

23rd Jul 2026

Success Isn't What I Thought It Was

When I was younger, I thought success meant promotions, rank, titles, money, and checking every box on the career ladder.

After 21 years in the Marine Corps, retirement, rebuilding my life, becoming an entrepreneur, helping veterans navigate the VA system, and mentoring families toward financial security, I've come to realize something...

Success looks very different than I imagined.

In this episode of The Field Op, I share how my definition of success has changed, why comparison is a losing game, and why legacy, purpose, and service have become the measures that matter most.

Whether you're a veteran, an entrepreneur, or simply someone trying to figure out what really matters in life, I hope this conversation gives you something to reflect on.

Because in the end, success isn't about what you accumulate.

It's about the difference you make.

The Field Op Links:

https://linktr.ee/thefieldop

#TheFieldOp

#Success

#Leadership

#VeteranVoices

#MarineCorps

#PersonalGrowth

#Purpose

#Legacy

#Entrepreneur

#VeteranEntrepreneur

#MilitaryTransition

#Mindset

#ServeOthers

#KeepMovingForward

#SemperFi

Listen for free

Show artwork for The Field Op

About the Podcast

The Field Op
Provide a place for service members and veterans to go listen, share, and get information on many different topics i.e. sharing funny stories, info about transitioning out of the service, mental health, VA claims and benefits, suicide prevention, etc.
Provide a place for service members and veterans to go listen, share, and get information on many different topics i.e. sharing funny stories, info about transitioning out of the service, mental health, VA claims and benefits, suicide prevention, etc.

About your host

Profile picture for Brian Colburn

Brian Colburn

Brian Colburn is a media strategist, podcast producer, content creators coach and consultant. Founder of Sitch Radio, and Growth & Partnership Director at EMN. With over 20 years of experience across media, corporate, and public service sectors.