Leadership, Faith, and Transformation Talks with Ryan Reichert & Lisa Sander

Leadership, Faith, and Transformation Talks with Ryan Reichert & Lisa Sander

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All right. Welcome back to The Daily Mastermind, George Wright III with your daily dose of inspiration, motivation, and education. And I am super excited today because we've got a group podcast. This is gonna be super great. We've got Ryan Reichert and Lisa Sanders on with us. How are you guys doing today?

Fantastic. Good morning George. Thank you so much for having us on.

Yeah, I'm excited about the topic because, first of all, you guys are a great team. You've got a lot of things going on—more than even, and I say this about myself all the time, but more than we can even handle. So let me give everybody a little bit of a framework and a background for who you are, so that everybody kind of gets to know what you're doing here, because we're gonna talk about some really transformational things today. You guys have got some great stuff.

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Who Are Ryan Reichert and Lisa Sander?

So for those of you that are just listening, we always want you to subscribe to the podcast, make sure you don’t miss any episodes. That’s why I do The Daily Mastermind, right? It’s a daily effort. Our idea here is: how can we help you create your best life? We’re bringing you all kinds of different topics—and the one today is going to be very transformation-based.

Ryan is a 23-year U.S. Army veteran, retired Lieutenant Colonel, a former Fortune 500 advisor, author of God Only Knows When the Devil Comes for You, and founder of Our Protector.

Lisa Sanders is a 24-year registered nurse and life coach. She co-hosts the podcast Our Healer, Our Protector and has a remarkable story of faith, family, and frontline trauma. Both are divorce survivors who now help others navigate pain into purpose.

Let’s take a minute for you to lay the backdrop of who you really are. I think it’s important for people to understand who you are because your mission and what you’re doing in transformation is so important.

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Ryan Reichert—From Combat to Coaching

Yeah, absolutely. And I have to go back even further, George. I'm from Hoople, North Dakota—Tater Town, USA—population around 350. I graduated with 11 kids. When people say they're from a small town, and they mean 3,000 or 4,000, I just laugh.

I was raised Catholic and wrestled with all the rules. I later joined the Army through the University of North Dakota. People ask, “Are leaders made or born?”—I think it's both. I was in the infantry, did Airborne and Ranger training, and served in Afghanistan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia—four years total deployed in combat.

I learned quickly that if you don't surround yourself with the right people and leadership, you'll end up in a ditch. I wrote a thesis in the Command General Staff College on leadership development—built around three pillars: communication, trust, and legacy. Those three things create any leader.

Today, I use that same framework, along with my faith and recovery, to guide others. I’m a recovering addict and alcoholic, and a father who wants his kids to know that no matter how badly you fall, you can come back. My company now is called Our Protector LLC, which stands for Legendary Leadership Companies. It's all about leading from a legacy perspective.

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Lisa Sander—Healing Through Faith and Experience

Since I was a little girl, I’ve always had a strong imagination and this dream that I was meant for something bigger. I led youth groups in high school, organized worship Thursdays before school, and even had guest speakers come in.

I became a nurse and was always the one who loved sitting with dying patients—helping them spiritually as they transitioned. When COVID hit, I was doing CPR daily, watching patients die alone. I lost seven people in my family during that time. My grandma died of COVID, and I couldn’t even be by her side.

So I became that person at the hospital who would sit with people who had no one—because someone had to do that for my grandma.

That shifted everything.

One day I hiked Flatiron in Arizona. On the trail, I hit a breaking point. I prayed, “God, I don’t know how to move forward.” Out of nowhere, a stranger reached his hand out and helped me place my feet. And then he disappeared. That moment changed my life. I realized I was meant to do more.

After my divorce, I started practicing podcasts with my nurse friends. I’d always wanted to inspire people. Even in sixth grade, I was pretending to host Oprah interviews. And now, with Ryan, we’re doing just that through Our Healer, Our Protector.

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Faith, Recovery, and the Road to Transformation

It’s interesting because people transform to the best version of themselves most often through hard experiences—through trauma. And when that happens, people tend to lean into faith. I want to ask both of you: were you always faith-based? Or did your experiences take you that direction?

I would say it solidified for me over time. I was raised Catholic, baptized Catholic. Later I married into Lutheranism. But somewhere along the way, we got caught up in idol worship—Disney, vacations, material stuff. We spent more time at Disney World than in church while raising our daughters.

As an addict and alcoholic, I was already deeply immersed in worship—the wrong kind. I would do anything for a drink or prescription meds to numb the pain. I tried to fill that God-sized hole with money, travel, or whatever I thought would make me happy. But it didn’t work.

Even in the Fortune 500 world, making triple what I earned in the military, I still felt empty. Eventually, I broke. I had committed every one of the seven deadly sins. I gained 50 pounds in 17 months. I drank every day, abused prescription drugs, and spiraled.

Then one day, it was as if God just put a spotlight on me and asked: “Are you done? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired?” And that was it. It was like I was struck sober.

My dad’s a recovering alcoholic with over 40 years of sobriety. He used to talk about being “struck sober.” I didn’t believe it until it happened to me. My sobriety date is November 26. That was my last drink—and God willing, I just keep following Him daily.

Lisa, you’ve always had a strong faith background. Was your connection with God consistent all your life, or did it deepen through your own personal trials?

I think I was born with Jesus in my heart. There was never a time I doubted Him—not even during my darkest days. People often ask, “Why did God do this?” I never asked that. I always asked, “God, what is my blessing in this?”

I’ve seen a lot I shouldn’t have seen growing up—alcoholism, divorce, trauma. But even then, we’d sit down for meals and pray as a family. I went to church alone during college. I stayed involved. I led others in worship at school. My faith never left me.

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Launching a Purpose-Driven Podcast

You both have such powerful stories—different paths, but a shared foundation in transformation and faith. Let’s pivot into the podcast. You created a show called Our Healer, Our Protector. It’s an interesting name. Ryan, can you explain the meaning behind it?

Yeah, the scientific answer is that Lisa’s a healer—she’s a nurse—and I’m a protector—being a soldier. That part is pretty straightforward.

But on a deeper level, “Our” refers to our God. He is our healer, our protector, our redeemer.

Our podcast blends science and spirituality. We’re real. We don’t sugarcoat things. We’re both still healing, still growing. We don’t script our episodes—we talk about what’s happening in our lives right now. The struggles. The victories. The confusion. The healing.

We also bring guests on to share their walk through trauma or adversity. Many of them have been in valleys and found purpose through the pain. Those are the stories that change lives.

I love that. Because post-COVID, especially, people just want connection. They want to feel like they’re not alone. You’re building a community around real conversation, which is so needed right now.

Exactly. You know what’s amazing? We’ve found that when one person shares their trauma, thousands of others relate to that same story. That’s the power of vulnerability—it multiplies hope.

Lisa, tell us what makes your podcast stand out in the crowded space of self-help, relationships, or transformation. What’s your format and why does it work?

What makes us different is that we are still healing too. We’re not preaching from a pedestal—we’re walking with our audience.

If you’re just getting started with your healing or faith journey, start at the beginning of our podcast. Grow with us. Heal with us.

We want people to know there’s more to life than just going to work, making dinner, watching TV, and going to bed. That’s not living—that’s surviving.

We want to inspire people to start living. To find their joy, their spark, and their purpose. Our podcast gives them practical tools, yes—but more importantly, it shows them real examples.

‍I do think it’s important to note, because I’ve been in the personal development space for decades now—growth and progress come from a mix: coaching, personal stories, practical guests, and shared struggle. And you two bring all of that in your show.

Yes—and it’s not about having all the answers. It’s about walking with people. Some of our most powerful episodes are the ones where we’re just figuring it out alongside the listeners. We're still in the healing. We're still in the learning. And people appreciate that transparency.

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A Book Born From Pain—“God Only Knows When the Devil Comes for You”

Ryan, I know you’ve got a new book out. Tell us what it’s about and how it came to be.

The book is titled God Only Knows When the Devil Comes for You: A Second Chance at Life. I started writing it the same day I received my final divorce decree from Hennepin County here in Minnesota.

Thirty days later, I had the manuscript finished. It’s published by Trilogy Christian Publishing, part of the TBN network.

The book walks readers through my personal experience of addiction, PTSD, divorce, career collapse—and the redemption that followed. It’s structured like a devotional, with chapters on:

• The power of pain
• The attitude of gratitude
• Building yourself to break (and rebuild)
• Shifting your power back to self
• Mindfulness, prayer, and spiritual awakening
• Creating a Life Map through vision work
• Loving your neighbor—even the ones who hurt you
• And ultimately, becoming fireproof

It’s not about perfection—it’s about perseverance.

You talked about losing everything, going through your darkest moments, and still coming out on the other side. I think that message is powerful. You’ve really channeled your “mess” into your message.

Absolutely. I’ve had nights where I was passed out drunk in the basement, my family asleep upstairs, wondering how I became the man I swore I’d never be.

I’ve had to look in the mirror and decide: am I going to be the broken soldier forever? Or am I going to be the man my children deserve?

And that’s where my faith, sobriety, and coaching work all came together. That’s where I started to rise. Like a phoenix from the ashes.

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Life Maps, Vision Boards, and Living with Intention

You also mentioned Life Maps—and Lisa, I know this is a tool you both use. Tell us about that and how it helps people create the life they want.

We started using Life Maps about four or five months ago. It’s kind of like a vision board, but more dynamic. It includes:

• Personal goals
• Career ambitions
• Spiritual intentions
• Health milestones
• Relationship values

And we update them regularly.

At first, one of mine said: “Become a published author.” When that happened, I updated it: “Become a #1 bestselling author.” We hit that. Now it says: “Speak on stage with Tony Robbins, Ed Mylett, Ben Newman.”

It’s not about bragging. It’s about visualizing the life God is calling us to live.

Lisa, how has the Life Map changed things for you?

It’s been a complete game-changer. It gives you clarity. It gives you excitement. And most importantly, it reminds you that your past doesn’t define your future.

I have a section on mine that says: “Create retreats for couples and blended families.” We’re working on that right now. When you write it down and see it every day—it becomes real.

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Shifting Focus from the Past to the Future

I’ve always believed your past doesn’t define you, but you do need to address it. You need to do the work. And once you do, you can start to shift your focus to the future. The more you focus on your future self, the less your past has power over you.

Exactly. And it starts with telling the truth. That’s what I always say. Tell the truth—even when it hurts. Especially when it hurts.

I lied for 33 years while I was drinking—lying to others, lying to myself. I didn’t want anyone to see the scared little boy inside the uniform. But when I finally started living in truth, I got free.

It’s not easy. You’ll lose people. You’ll disappoint people. But you’ll find your people—the ones who lift you up, who love you where you are, but won’t let you stay there.

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Building the Future—Coaching, Retreats, and Purpose

Lisa, let’s talk about what’s next. You’ve got some exciting projects underway for Our Healer, Our Protector, including retreats and coaching. Tell us about what’s coming and how people can get involved.

Yes—absolutely. We’re planning our first couples retreat this October. It will be focused on strengthening relationships and helping blended families navigate their dynamics.

Because let’s be honest: life doesn’t stay clean and simple. Sometimes you have six grandparents, multiple parenting styles, competing traditions, and a lot of unspoken emotions. We want to help people find clarity and connection—together.

We also want to help couples grow stronger emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Our retreat will include:

• Guided transformation exercises
• Faith-based discussions
• Communication and co-parenting strategies
• Space for healing and reconnection

Beyond that, I run LisaSanders.com as a life coach for women—especially those aged 35–55 who are navigating the "midlife pivot." I call it “finding your midlife happiness.”

I love that phrase—“midlife happiness.” You’re rewriting the narrative. People call it a crisis; you call it an opportunity.

Exactly. I believe women deserve joy, laughter, and fulfillment—not just routine.

That’s what I coach around. Whether you’re post-divorce, facing burnout, or just know deep down something needs to change—I’m here to help you tap into your passion and reframe your life.

And I’ve lived it. I’ve been through heartbreak, healing, and awakening. So when I say “I get it”—I really do.

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A Second Chance at Life

One thing I love about your message is this: everyone deserves a second chance. Not just in marriage or business—but in life itself.

Absolutely. Just because someone’s gone through a dark chapter—addiction, divorce, failure—doesn’t mean they can’t build a beautiful future.

I want people to know: you’re not disqualified. You’re not too late. You’re not broken.

Sometimes, what breaks you is what frees you.

That’s why I wrote the book. That’s why we host the podcast. That’s why we’re building coaching programs, retreats, and more. We want to be the people we needed during our darkest times.

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Leading With Love—and Letting Go of the Past

Lisa, one of the most powerful things you said today was about wishing your ex happiness. That’s rare. That takes strength. That’s growth.

It’s part of the healing journey. Look, not every relationship is meant to last forever. But I do believe every person deserves love and healing.

Sometimes, two people just don’t bring out the best in each other. And that’s okay.

I want the father of my children to find someone who makes him his best self—because that means my kids will experience better energy from both of us.

You can’t move forward if you’re constantly looking backward. Let it go. Bless it. And build the life you’re meant to live.

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The Podcast Mission—Grow With Us

So let’s tie it all together. If someone’s new to Our Healer, Our Protector, what’s the best way to get started?

Check out our YouTube channel: Our Healer, Our Protector. That’s where all our episodes live, and you can start from the beginning to grow and heal alongside us.

We also post updates about upcoming retreats and coaching opportunities there. We’ll be adding more downloadable tools, vision mapping resources, and possibly live workshops down the line.

You can also connect with Lisa directly at LisaSanders.com, and Ryan’s book is available on Amazon.

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Final Words of Encouragement

As we wrap up, Ryan, what’s your message for someone who’s really struggling—whether it’s with addiction, trauma, divorce, or simply feeling lost?

Talk to someone. Find a coach, therapist, pastor, or trusted friend. You cannot do this alone.

And tell the truth. Even if it hurts. Even if it’s messy. It will set you free.

Get honest with yourself and those around you. Get honest with God.

And then start surrounding yourself with people who want to grow—people who’ll call you out, build you up, and walk with you through the fire.

Your old circle might not get it. That’s okay. Find your new one.

Lisa, your final thought?

If you feel like you were made for more—you were.

This life isn’t just about surviving. It’s about finding joy. Laughing. Loving again. Healing. Moving forward.

And if you need someone in your corner—we’re here. Whether it’s through the podcast, coaching, or our community—we’d love to walk with you.

So if you’re listening to this right now, whether you’re thriving or barely holding on, just remember: it’s never too late to start creating the life you’re meant to live.

Follow Ryan and Lisa on YouTube, check out Ryan’s book on Amazon, or visit LisaSanders.com to learn more.

Want help creating a life map, facing your past, or stepping into purpose?

Start today. Take the next step. And don’t do it alone.

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About Ryan Reichert and Lisa Sander:

Ryan Reichert, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, and Lisa Sander, a dedicated Christian nurse and coach, have transformed their personal journeys through divorce and addiction into a mission of healing and faith. Together, they co-host the podcast Our Healer, Our Protector, offering guidance on overcoming trauma and finding purpose.

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Resources:

• Podcast: Our Healer, Our Protector
• YouTube Episode: New Beginnings, Faith, and Healing Together

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About George Wright III:

George Wright is a Proven, Successful Entrepreneur- and he knows how to inspire entrepreneurs, companies, and individuals to achieve Massive Results. With more than 20 years of Executive Management experience and 25 years of Direct Marketing and Sales experience, George is responsible for starting and building several successful multimillion-dollar companies. He started at a very young age to network and build his experience and knowledge of what it takes to become a driven and well-known entrepreneur. George built a multi-million-dollar seminar business, promoting some of the biggest stars and brands in the world. He has accelerated the success and cash flow in each of his ventures through his network of resources and results driven strategies. George is now dedicated to teaching and sharing his Prosperity Principles and Strategies to every Driven and Passionate Entrepreneur he meets. His mission is to Empower Entrepreneurs Globally to create Massive Change and LIVE their Ultimate Destiny.

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