#307: Combining Military Experience with Pastoral Wisdom to Transform Organizations and Develop Leaders with Gabe Smith, USMA '99

Need financing for your next investment property? Visit: https://www.academyfund.com/ ____ Gabe Smith is a leadership strategist and organizational development expert who blends military discipline, pastoral insight, and business acumen to drive transformational growth. As the founder of Altitude Consulting, LLC, he coaches leaders to navigate challenges and achieve strategic clarity. A West Point graduate and Ranger-qualified Infantry Officer, Gabe served eight years in the Army, including leading operations in Mosul, Iraq, and during the 9/11 Pentagon response. Post-military, he held leadership roles at Forest Hill Church, Mesa Global, and New City Church, managing budgets and driving organizational growth. Gabe also co-founded the nonprofit East Mountain in South Africa and Pangea, focusing on leadership development. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, he is dedicated to helping leaders clarify purpose and create lasting impact. In this episode of the SABM podcast, Scott chats with Gabe about: The Vision Behind Altitude Consulting: Transforming Leadership with Purpose Gabe's Journey: From Army Infantry Officer to leadership strategist and coach. Defining Moments: How military and pastoral experiences shaped his coaching philosophy. Innovative Methods: Leadership lessons inspired by French culinary fundamentals. Collaborative Ventures: Partnering with his wife Janet in real estate and developing unique methodologies with Nicole Eunice. Purpose-Driven Focus: Helping leaders and entrepreneurs achieve clarity and growth. Looking Ahead: Expanding Altitude Consulting's impact on purpose-driven leadership. Timestamps: 01:10 Gabe's Entrepreneurial Journey 02:06 Janet's Real Estate Ventures 04:27 The Birth of Altitude Consulting 05:37 Gabe's Coaching Philosophy 10:51 From Infantry to Chaplaincy 14:47 Leadership Development in South Africa 17:20 Future Goals and Challenges 24:07 How You Can Help Connect with Gabe LinkedIn Altitude Consulting If you found value in today's episode, don't keep it to yourself—share it with a colleague or friend who could benefit. And if you're a Service Academy graduate ready to elevate your business, we'd love for you to join our community and get started today. Make sure you never miss an episode—subscribe now and help support the show: Apple Podcasts Spotify Leave us a 5-star review! A special thank you to Gabe Smith for joining me this week. Until next time! -Scott Mackes, USNA '01

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