In a heartfelt episode of Stories of Service, host Theresa Carpenter welcomes Dr. Mike Hackney—a distinguished Army veteran, corporate leader, coach, author, and pilot. Their conversation, timed just before the Fourth of July, is a celebration of patriotism, purpose, and the many ways service can manifest across a lifetime. From paratrooper to plant manager, from combat boots to business suits, Mike’s journey exemplifies how military values like leadership, resilience, and adaptability can translate far beyond the battlefield.
Guest Bio: Dr. Mike Hackney
Dr. Mike Hackney is an Army veteran with eight years of active duty service and continued contributions in the Army Reserve. He transitioned into the corporate world through PepsiCo’s junior military officer program and rose to executive leadership roles at companies like Sara Lee and Conagra, where he managed the iconic Hebrew National brand. Mike is also a published author of both fiction and non-fiction, a doctoral graduate in organizational psychology, and a certified pilot. He continues to coach, write, and collaborate on projects that fuse military wisdom with corporate innovation.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
🇺🇸 A Lifelong Spirit of Service: Mike’s call to military service began in childhood, inspired by patriotic books and movies like The Green Berets. He chose the infantry because he wanted to be “part of the main event,” a decision shaped by powerful mentors like Colonel Paul Revere O’Meara and Sergeant Major Curtis M. Duco.
🌍 Learning Leadership on the Front Lines: Stationed in Germany during the Cold War, Mike’s early experiences as a young rifle platoon leader tested and shaped his leadership. Though he admits to struggling initially, it was the guidance of seasoned noncommissioned officers that helped him grow. He later commanded a unique 320-person headquarters company, managing a wide range of functions from logistics to heavy weapons—an experience that directly translated to corporate leadership.
💼 Civilian Transition with Purpose: Mike’s first civilian job managing second-shift potato chip production at Frito-Lay was humbling yet formative. Transitioning from the military to the private sector wasn't glamorous, but it offered growth. Over time, he moved into executive roles and eventually ran a company for a golf-loving owner who trusted Mike to take the reins.
📚 From War Rooms to Writing Rooms: Mike’s passion for writing led him to publish a fiction trilogy under the pen name Shayde Michaels, as well as co-author leadership anthologies with fellow veterans. He is currently working on a new project called Shift—focused on changing organizational mindsets—with Dr. Alexandra McMurtry.
✈️ A Sky-High Dream Realized: After years of dreaming about it, Mike became a licensed pilot in his retirement—joined by his wife, a medical doctor, who also earned her pilot’s license. Their story is a testament to embracing lifelong learning and saying “yes” to bold new challenges, no matter your age or stage in life.
🧭 Leading with Integrity and Humanity: One of the most touching stories Mike shared involved General Norman Schwarzkopf taking time to speak with him one-on-one before a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. That moment underscored for Mike the enduring value of mentorship and personal connection—principles that guide both his military and civilian leadership philosophies.
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Dr. Mike Hackney’s story is not just about career success—it's about continuously choosing to lead, serve, and grow. Whether commanding troops, managing brands, mentoring peers, or soaring the skies as a pilot, Mike embodies the spirit of purposeful reinvention.
As Theresa prepares for her own transition from active duty, this conversation serves as both a tribute and a toolkit. The courage to pivot, the discipline to lead, and the passion to serve—these are timeless virtues for veterans and civilians alike.
