I Looked Successful on the Outside — But I Was Falling Apart Inside | @LisaTauai cover art

I Looked Successful on the Outside — But I Was Falling Apart Inside | @LisaTauai

I Looked Successful on the Outside — But I Was Falling Apart Inside | @LisaTauai

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FROM MILITARY LEADER TO MISS USA INTERNATIONAL

Lisa Tauai’s Unbelievable Transition Story | HeroFront Podcast


What happens when a 20-year Air Force commander trades her uniform for a crown? In this epic episode, we sit down with Lisa Tauai — a retired Lt. Colonel, nationally recognized dietitian, and current Miss USA International 2025 — to explore what it really takes to reinvent your life after military service.


Whether you’re navigating transition, battling imposter syndrome, or dreaming bigger than your circumstances, Lisa’s story is your roadmap to rising strong.


00:00 – Intro Trailer

04:50 – Lisa’s Joyful Energy and “Flow” Mentality

05:31 – Fish-Forward Nutrition and Sustainable Wellness

06:49 – True Crime TV and America’s Most Wanted Story

09:39 – Instagram Growth and Meta Verification Secrets

14:50 – Pageant Queen Origins: First Time on Stage

18:44 – Air Force to Runway: How She Did It

22:54 – Squadron Commander Lessons on Leadership

29:50 – Veteran Depression and Finding Post-Service Identity

34:35 – Launching “Vegas Saints” and Creating Legacy Content

39:52 – Why Veterans Need to Prioritize Health Now

46:15 – Purpose and Longevity: What Blue Zones Teach Us

52:13 – Lisa’s NICU Trauma and Motherhood Resilience

1:04:09 – Parenting, Perspective, and Post-Military Healing

1:16:04 – Where Lisa’s Going Next (Cosmetology and Coaching)

1:21:04 – Military vs Civilian Mindset: Owning Your Voice

1:24:04 – Final Message: “You’re Not Too Late — Start Now”


GUEST: LISA TAUAI

Miss USA International 2025

Registered Dietitian, Veteran, Speaker

Instagram: @lisatauai


If Lisa’s story inspired you, be sure to follow, rate, and share this episode. Your support helps us continue amplifying the voices of veterans, leaders, and everyday heroes.


Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

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