My Story

James "JR" Lyda

As a 30-year military veteran, I dedicated my entire professional life to the development of the next generation of leaders, assembling successful teams, and building growth opportunities for members at every level. I spent years as the executive advisor to numerous senior leaders in the military and have studied under some of the greatest minds.

In 2021, I created Guidon Leadership to help me share this knowledge and my experiences with corporate teams. I do this through dynamic presentations and utilizing unique storytelling to help business teams improve leadership skills, reinforce culture, improve retention, and build happier motivated people.

Meet the Team

160+ Years of Service Grounded in Dedication, Expertise, and Passion.

Since 2021, We have assembled a team of the most dynamic teachers, leaders, and storytellers from my three decades of service. We have served together around the world, in garrison and combat, through some of the toughest assignments. Together we've developed people, led teams, and inspired the next generation of military leaders. Guidon Leadership brings 160+ years of military experience to your organization.

20-Year Veteran

Ron Lenz

Ron is a certified Master Instructor, Air Traffic Controller, and licensed Pilot.

He was responsible for teaching a generation of Air Traffic Controllers and later, from the U.S. Pentagon, he led the Air Forces only enlisted pilot program.

23-Year Veteran

Joey Menendez

A 23-year Air Force Chief Master Sergeant

He has lead teams around the world, helped build new training requirements, and overhaul leadership classes for the entire Air Force Air Traffic Control career field.

28-Year Veteran

Scott Shrier

Scott led Airmen into hostile and uncertain environments, developing and identifying future leaders, providing strategic and operational advice to senior leaders; ensuring the health, morale, and welfare of the force. He has dedicated his life to the study of leadership and developing those around him to be better; earlier than himself.

23-Year Veteran

Raul Torres

A 23 year Chief Master Sergeant, Raul is highly experienced at leading large organizations and building high performing teams. He served as an advisor to senior operational leaders and helped organize, train and equip Air Force personnel.

He served as an Air Force Instructor and his passion is to develop leadership skills in people at all levels.

20-Year Veteran

Steve Haro

Steve has served as an Air Traffic Controller and as a Master Instructor where he taught thousands of military and coalition students. He also served as a First Sergeant, where he not only advised senior leaders but cared for Airmen and families around the globe.

In every role, he served to develop the next generation of Airmen and leaders. Steve has a deep passion for leadership and mentorship and believes in making strong personal connections and lifting up those around him.

23-Year Veteran

Patricia Lyda

Patricia is the backbone of Guidon Leadership and has been here from the very beginning. She grew up in a military household, served 23-years of active duty, 2-years of Government Service, and 15-years as a military spouse...she brings an entire lifetime of military experience to the Guidon Leadership team.