38. Rod Rodriguez: Finding Brotherhood

Rod Rodriguez, owner of PSG Security, @psgrodrodriguez, joins the show to discuss find brotherhood, life transformation, and making a lasting impact.

In this powerful episode of the Leading Forward podcast, hosts Nick and Jeremy sit down with Rod Rodriguez, a military veteran, former law enforcement officer, and the owner of PSG Security. Rod transparently shares his remarkable life journey, touching on the dark realities and negative coping mechanisms often found in high-stress professions, the profound tragedy of losing two wives, and reaching a point of absolute rock bottom. Ultimately, this is a story of redemption. Rod explains how surrendering his life to faith and surrounding himself with a healthy brotherhood fundamentally shifted his trajectory. Now in his 50s, he views his past not with shame, but as a "pruning process" that has equipped him to mentor young men, lead his family biblically, and pull others out of the darkness he once knew. Show Notes & Highlights Guest Profile: Rod Rodriguez Owner of PSG Security: A private security firm catering to high-profile and high-net-worth clients, prioritizing discretion, efficiency, and problem-solving. President of the Swordsman Foundation: A non-profit dedicated to mentoring young men on biblical marriage, household leadership, and healthy living. Veteran & Former LEO: Served 6 years in the U.S. Army (Tank driver/gunner) and 12 years in law enforcement. Key Takeaways The Danger of the "Criminal Mindset" in Law Enforcement: Rod discusses how high-stress environments without healthy outlets often lead officers down destructive paths, including high divorce rates and substance abuse. Changing Your Environment: Real change didn't occur for Rod until he stopped mirroring negative behaviors and actively sought out a different kind of brotherhood that pushed him toward the light. Tragedy as a Superpower: Taking a cue from superhero origin stories, Rod and the hosts discuss how mastering your deepest pain allows you to utilize it as a superpower to serve others and glorify God. The Cost of Faith: Rod bravely opens up about the current trials he faces—including a strained relationship with his eldest daughter because of his bold faith—proving that stepping into your calling doesn't mean the battles stop; it just means you're fighting for the right side. The Pruning Process: Referencing John 15, the hosts explain that life's trials and tragedies are often God's way of "pruning" us so that we can ultimately bear more fruit in our lives and the lives of others. Resources Mentioned The Standard: A networking/brotherhood group connecting high-level male leaders. Rise of Kings: A brotherhood and mentorship organization that helped Rod re-align his life. PSG Security: Reach out via email at rod@psgsecurity.net or follow on Instagram at @psg_rodrodriguez The Swordsman Foundation: swordsmanfoundation.com