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Breaking Formation

Breaking Formation

By: Merryl TENGESDAL
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About this listen

 The world is changing fast. How do you navigate the constant pressure of social media, AI, and an uncertain future? Welcome to Breaking Formation, the podcast that gives you a strategic flight plan for modern life.


Hosted by retired Air Force Colonel Merryl Tengesdal and youth psychology expert Shea Phinney, each 15-25 minute episode is a mission debrief. We tackle the toughest topics facing young people today—from managing online pressure and "sharenting" to building resilience, navigating career anxiety, and handling unfair criticism.


Our mission is to give you the strategic tools of a pilot and the psychological insights of a therapist so you can break formation from harmful scripts and lead with courage.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Merryl TENGESDAL Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Topic 2: Shatter the Sky

    Topic 2: Shatter the Sky
    Jan 2 2026

    Ever wondered what it takes to bring a 30-year-old dream to life? In this special episode of Breaking Formation, the tables are turned as co-host Shea Phinney, MFT, interviews Merryl Tengesdal, Col, USAF (ret.), about her incredible journey creating the graphic novella, "Shatter the Sky."


    Join them for an inspiring conversation that peels back the curtain on the creative process. Merryl shares the story behind the story—from a long-held idea to finding the right collaborators and navigating the challenges of independent publishing. This episode is a masterclass in persistence, the power of community, and trusting your vision against all odds.

    Discover the lessons Merryl learned about patience, building a team, and the emotional journey of reliving her experiences to create something new. If you've ever had a passion project you've wanted to pursue, this discussion will give you the motivation to take the next step.


    Don't miss out on more inspiring stories. Subscribe and follow "Breaking Formation" wherever you get your podcasts.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    23 mins
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