In this episode of The Legacy Project with Jim Copple, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Beal joins us for a powerful and timely conversation.

From serving five combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan to reflecting on leadership, civility, and the future of democracy, Andrew shares lessons learned on the battlefield and in life.

We also explore one of the most pressing issues of our time: the rise of political violence in America. In light of the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, this episode challenges us to ask: Can America return to civility, courtesy, and genuine dialogue across our divides?

Jim and Andrew’s friendship is proof that people with different experiences and political beliefs can still break bread, share values, and shape a better legacy together.

This isn’t just a podcast about history—it’s about the legacy we choose to leave for our families, communities, and nation.

The Legacy Project is a series of conversations that focuses on legacy, the one we inherit and the one we can create. It is value based and not material based. We interview a wide range of individuals who reflect on key influencers in their lives.

Please subscribe to our podcast to hear future episodes. Please also consider leaving us a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts. You can learn more on our Facebook Page.

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Roberto “Taz” Villaseñor: Faith, Policing, and the Power of Listening

In this episode of The Legacy Project, host Jim Copple sits down with Roberto “Taz” Villaseñor, former Chief of the Tucson Police Department and a key member of President Obama’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

Taz shares his journey—from growing up in a multi-generational immigrant family in Tucson, to finding faith as a teenager, and ultimately leading one of Arizona’s largest police departments. He speaks openly about the conflict between suspicion and trust, what it's like to be a police chief in a post-George Floyd world, and how his faith continues to shape his life and legacy.

You'll hear real stories—some painful, some redemptive—and gain insight into what it takes to lead with integrity in law enforcement. Whether you're a cop, a reformer, a community advocate, or someone seeking deeper understanding, this episode will make you think.

Check out some of Taz's work at 21CP Solutions. https://www.21cpsolutions.com

The Legacy Project is a series of conversations that focuses on legacy, the one we inherit and the one we can create. It is value based and not material based. We interview a wide range of individuals who reflect on key influencers in their lives.

Please subscribe to our podcast to hear future episodes. Please also consider leaving us a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts. You can learn more on our Facebook Page.

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Eric Mills, CEO of Thrive in Martin County, Kentucky, shares his remarkable journey of turning trauma into purpose, addiction into opportunity, and legacy into action. In this interview with Jim Copple, Eric unpacks what it means to "give it all you’ve got" — not just for your family, but for your entire community.

From pioneering recovery-to-workforce programs to teaching his kids the power of faith and service, Eric’s story is a blueprint for rural transformation in America. Don’t miss his insights on faith, fear, and what he’d save if his house were on fire.

Check out some of Eric's work at Thrive Coalition Community and consider becoming involved. https://www.thriveserves.com.

Learn more: servantforge.org
Subscribe to The Legacy Project on Apple, Spotify & all podcast platforms.

The Legacy Project is a series of conversations that focuses on legacy, the one we inherit and the one we can create. It is value based and not material based. We interview a wide range of individuals who reflect on key influencers in their lives.

Please subscribe to our podcast to hear future episodes. Please also consider leaving us a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts. You can learn more on our Facebook Page.

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#LegacyProject #EricMills #Appalachia #AddictionRecovery #FaithAndPurpose #JimCopple #ThriveKY #RuralRevival #PurposeDrivenLife #PodcastClips #CommunityLeadership

The Legacy Project is a series of conversations that focuses on legacy, the one we inherit and the one we can create. It is value based and not material based. We interview a wide range of individuals who reflect on key influencers in their lives.

Please subscribe to our podcast to hear future episodes. Please also consider leaving us a rating and a review on Apple Podcasts. You can learn more on our Facebook Page.

#LegacyProject #JamesCopple #Interview