About the episode:

This week, ADS Federal Sales Director Sean Johnston brings his story of career growth, challenges, and leadership to the podcast. After serving eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, including a deployment as a military police officer in Iraq, Sean navigated a transition into the civilian workforce, taking on roles in bartending and auto claims before joining ADS in 2015. It took three job applications, but his persistence paid off. 

Starting at ground level, Sean worked his way up through sales roles to become our Director of Federal Sales, where he oversees contracts that equip federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, Secret Service, and DHS. In this episode, Sean shares valuable lessons from the military, insights on leading high-performing teams, and advice for anyone chasing career growth: Raise your hand, look for opportunities to go outside your lane to help, put in the work, and never stop pushing forward.

Connect With This Week’s Hosts:

Jen Weir Edwards | Director, Army Sales, ADS, Inc.

Hilary Stallings Warren | Inside Account Manager, Army Team, ADS, Inc.

Sean Johnston | Federal Sales Director, ADS, Inc.

This podcast, including all discussions and examples, is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government agency or company.