From Military Leadership to Life Coaching: The Inspiring Journey of Chas Higgins

In this episode of the L3 Perspective, Chas Higgins (aka Coach Chas) joins Cam and Glenn for an inspiring conversation. The atmosphere is warm, genuine, and filled with camaraderie as Chas who has made a lasting impact on both the hosts and many others shares his journey and insights on life, leadership, and personal growth.

Getting to Know Chas: From Laughter to Leadership

The episode started light—banter about fake backgrounds, shared merch, and a quick look back on how Chas’s influence has rippled through Cam and Glenn’s business and personal lives. Way before he became “Coach Chas,” he was shaping lives in the military, coaching wild spirits like Cam back when he was tearing it up in Korea.

Chas described his military leadership style as “hands-off, love first.” He reflected:

“You gotta love people to lead people. If you’re going to give them ownership, step back and let them have ownership.”

The Real Chas: Roots, Family, and Lessons from a Tough Childhood

Before the stripes and titles, Chas’s story began with adversity. Growing up between Michigan and Texas, he experienced love but also hardship—a stepfather struggling with addiction, feelings of not fitting in, and the drive to run from pain and embarrassment. It wasn’t always pretty, but Chas credits those early lessons for making him who he is.

A pivotal moment came much later. In 2015, Chas battled suicidal thoughts. He openly shared how, sitting in inpatient therapy, he realized that healing would require getting out of his comfort zone, reconnecting with his roots, and intentionally building stronger relationships with his wife and daughter.

A New Purpose: From Struggle to Suicide Prevention Advocacy

Chas’s battle with mental health transformed into a mission. He dove headfirst into suicide prevention, first as a government professional, then as an outspoken advocate.

He dropped a powerful truth on the podcast:

“Suicide is 100% preventable. Just say, ‘I’m not doing good,’ and people will come out of the woodwork to walk with you.”

He emphasized the ripple effect of suicide—it immediately impacts 137 people. His message: Talk about it, build your network, and never try to heal alone.

Marriage, Family, and Being Intentional

Chas got candid about his marriage. He called himself a “horrible husband” in the past—not out of malice, but out of ignorance and an obsession with financial control that left little room for joy. The shift? Making his wife a part of every decision, bringing her along on work trips, and relinquishing control so they could both thrive.

His approach to family is now grounded in presence and intention—being there for his wife, daughter, and three beloved grandchildren.

The Entrepreneurial Leap: Frame Shaping

The podcast then explored how Chas made the jump from federal service to entrepreneurship. At the encouragement of a wing commander, Chas chose to “monetize what you do.” Thus, his coaching business, Frame Shaping, was born—a metaphor for surrounding your best self with a life that fits.

Chas’s daughter designed his logo, deepening the family connection. His philosophy? You must “go to grow,” never settle, and be consistent even if the journey is uncomfortable.

He shared:

“You might have to get comfortable being uncomfortable.”

Community engagement runs deep for Chas—especially supporting elementary education with programs like All Pro Dad, which helps fathers build emotional bonds with their kids.

Coaching Wisdom: Keys to Growth and Healing

Throughout the episode, Chas repeated his major lessons:

Lead with love.

Be intentional in marriage and relationships.

Build a support network of people who make you better.

Talk about mental health openly.

Consistency and dreaming big are vital—people should laugh at your dreams!

Chas wrapped up by reminding listeners to focus on what truly matters: family, gratitude, and embracing the present moment.

Key Takeaways for Listeners (and Readers!)

If you’re looking for actionable lessons, this episode delivers:

Lead with love and intention, both in business and at home.

Talk openly about mental health—breaking the stigma saves lives.

Build your support network with people who genuinely care and challenge you to grow.

Consistency and dreaming big are vital, even if others laugh at your ambitions.

Engage in your community, especially with youth and education.

Sharing and Educating: Why This Episode Matters

For anyone struggling with life’s challenges, questioning their path, or seeking fresh inspiration for leadership and personal growth, Chas’s story is essential listening. As a reviewer, I urge readers to take these lessons to heart—and to share them widely. Whether you’re a parent, leader, or just someone working on your own story, the wisdom in this episode is both approachable and transformative.

If you want to connect with Chas or learn more, check out FrameShaping.com or find Coach Chas on social media. And don’t forget to reach out for help when you need it—because, as this episode reminds us, sometimes the bravest thing you can do is to say, “I’m not doing good.” That single step could change your life—and inspire those around you.