EP63 * Mike Brooks * Lessons Earned, a lifetime of excellence in Leadership, Cybersecurity, and Command of military
EP63 * Mike Brooks * Lessons Earned, a lifetime of excellence in Leadership, Cybersecurity, and Command of military  
Podcast: TARGETED Podcast
Published On: Mon Feb 23 2026
Description: In this episode of Targeted podcast, Atlas Aultman sits down with a former U.S. Air Force cyber operations officer, commander, and senior military leader Michael "Mike" Brooks turned though leader and author to discuss cybersecurity leadership, military-to-civilian transition, identity after service, and his upcoming book Lessons Earned. Mike Brooks spent 22 years in the Air Force, serving in elite units including the Thunderbirds, intelligence agencies, a combat command, special operations, and the White House Communications Agency. After commanding in a high-tempo operational environment and supporting presidential missions, he transitioned into the private sector — where he found another real battle with identity, purpose, and redefining leadership. In this powerful conversation, we cover: • Cybersecurity leadership in the Defense Industrial Base • CMMC and federal cybersecurity compliance • Military leadership lessons that translate to corporate America • Identity loss after the military • Truth, values, and rebuilding purpose • Lessons from Air Force One & combat command • Why “Leaders Serve. Results Matter.” • A preview of Mike’s upcoming book Lessons Earned If you are a cybersecurity professional, defense contractor, veteran, leader, or entrepreneur — this episode will challenge how you think about mission, precision, trust, and excellence. Connect with Mike Brooks on LinkedIn (CISSP, PMP, MPA): https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdb-michael-brooks/ Subscribe for more life changing REAL conversations. Until next time, AIM for excellence and stay on target. SPECIAL OFFERS & SPONSORS: - BUCKED UP Supplements: 20% off with code ATLAS25 at www.buckedup.com  Targeted MERCH: https://blackeaglecustoms.us/collections/targeted-podcast SPONSOR THIS SHOW/GUEST APPLICATIONS: https://calendly.com/atlasaultman Thank you for supporting TARGETED Podcast. Every watch/listen helps us grow, reach more champions, and bring you powerful life and mindset lessons from men who've won already. This isn't story, it's REAL-LIFE lessons for our growing community. Until next time, aim for excellence, and STAY ON TARGET.