Find Your Beetle

Episode notes

Episode Description — Find Your Beetle In this episode of the Northbound Podcast , Chris shares a powerful story from his Air Force days—one that began with an unexpected "you're fired" moment and ended with a new role he never saw coming: speechwriter for a general. Thrown into a job he'd never done before, Chris was given the freedom to choose anyone he wanted for his team. His pick was immediate: a friend and colleague everyone knew as Beetle . Creative, skilled, and gifted in all the ways Chris wasn't, Beetle was the kind of teammate who elevated everyone around him. This episode is an invitation to "find your Beetle"—the person who complements your weaknesses, shares your mission, and makes you better. Chris reflects on why bringing people with you matters, how to spot the right teammate, and why great leaders aren't afraid to surround themselves with people who may even outshine them. The episode also closes with a heartfelt tribute to Beetle, who passed away several years ago but left an enduring legacy of talent, friendship, and faith.