From logging timber in the rugged mountains of western Virginia to navigating dual-military life in the wilds of Alaska and rising to Technical Division Director (GS-15), Mike Sherer’s path is a masterclass in resilience, deliberate preparation, and quiet grit.

In this episode of Catalyst Comms, Phil and Dan sit down with Mike to unpack the pivotal chapters that built his no-excuses mindset:

• Roots & Early Lessons: Growing up rural with no military background, earning his first paycheck logging in the mountains, and the grounding influence of his grandfather.
• The Air Force & Alaska: Trading the East Coast for the frontier of Alaska, navigating dual-military family dynamics, and balancing service with raising kids.
• Bouncing Back from Pink Slips: Facing layoffs head-on, stepping out independently as an instructor, and transforming career uncertainty into a blueprint for resilience.
• The Federal Ascent: Transitioning from contractor back to civilian service, mapping out a direct target on GS-15 from day one, and the leadership philosophy driving his work in Information Technology.
• Discipline in the Field: Mike’s passion for hunting, his mindset on gear and calculated preparation, and how time in the backcountry parallels professional execution.
• Lighter Moments & Legacy: Dan puts Mike on the hot seat with a couple of inside-track questions (including the infamous rule of what happens after saying "STOP" three times), followed by the core philosophy that ties it all together: why every day is an interview.

Whether you are navigating a career pivot, climbing the federal or corporate ranks, or seeking grounded advice on handling setbacks, Mike shares candid takeaways on discipline, adaptability, and earning your seat at the table every single day.

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