Hazard Ground

At eighteen, Ian Fritz joined the Air Force out of necessity and was soon selected to become an Airborne Cryptologic Linguist in the war in Afghanistan. Over the course of two tours, Fritz listened to the Taliban for hundreds of hours, all over the country night and day, in moments of peace and in the middle of battle. WHAT THE TALIBAN TOLD ME (Simon & Schuster; November 7, 2023) is the powerful memoir of his harrowing experiences coming of age in a war that is lost. Fritz's fluency in Dari and Pashto, the main languages of Afghanistan, is his greatest asset to the military, yet it becomes the greatest liability to his own commitment to the cause. His eavesdropping is critical to supporting Special Forces units on the ground, but there is no training to counter the emotional complexity that develops as you listen to people's most intimate conversations. In WHAT THE TALIBAN TOLD ME, Fritz grapples with pride for his service and despair that he is instrumental in destroying the voices that he hears. Looking back on his service in the Air Force, Fritz shares what he learned about the people of Afghanistan, the war, and himself. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Patrick Brown joined the Army in 2005 as an Infantryman in the US Army, deploying to multiple combat zones throughout his service. Immediately after service, he became a US Army Survival, Escape, Resistance, Evasion (SERE-C) instructor to soldiers who were at high risk of being captured while overseas. Patrick would go on contract work for various government agencies teaching survival techniques. Patrick is married with 4 kids, now residing in Atlanta GA assisting the veteran population transition from military service in the state of GA. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Mikael Cook is a former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and veteran of the war in Afghanistan. During the August 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan, Mikael was a part of the #DigitalDunkirk team that saved thousands of Afghan allies who had been left behind. He was personally responsible for the evacuation of 20 of our allies, most of whom have now joined him in Michigan. Mikael is an active member of the veteran community and continues his advocacy work for the Afghan allies left behind. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Nickolas Yost spent a total of 13 years between the National Guard and Active Duty for the U.S. Army before exiting as a Staff Sergeant. Nickolas had multiple deployments to Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He was injured in Iraq, awarded a Purple Heart, then returned to duty to deploy to Afghanistan. After his military career, Nickolas decided to work in the pharmaceutical industry. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Scott Mann is a former U.S. Army Green Beret with tours all over the world including Colombia, Iraq, and multiple tours in Afghanistan. He is a warrior storyteller and the founder of Rooftop Leadership where he shares the rapport-building skills he learned in Special Forces to help today's leaders make better human connections in high-stakes, low-trust engagements. Scott is the author of the instant New York Times Best-Seller, Operation Pineapple Express, a third-person narrative detailing the harrowing stories of the veterans, volunteers, and Afghan Allies who navigated the US abandonment of Afghanistan in August of 2021. He has since founded Operation Pineapple Express Relief, a 501c3 to help support the emergency needs of our Afghan Allies such as safe passage out of Afghanistan, plus unforeseen resettlement needs. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Sergeant First Class Chris Corbin entered military service in July 1995. Prior to becoming a Green Beret with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), he served in various Army units such as the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division (1995-1999), and the 1st Battalion, and 75th Ranger Regiment (1999-2002). On February 17th, 2011, Corbin was on his third tour to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). That day, he was on patrol with his Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) through a village in the Helmand Province, when he stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and suffered injuries to both legs resulting in a bilateral, below-the-knee (Bilat BK) amputation. On March 24th, 2012, 13 months after his injury, Chris, with his Green Beret father, Master Sergeant Nelson Corbin, ran his first 5K race to benefit the Fisher House on Eglin Air Force Base. His determination and will coupled with the support and motivation provided by his father and teammates enabled Chris to finish his first race in 27 minutes and 34 seconds. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Chris Corbin

John Ballenger comes from a background of 20 years in the US Marine Corps where he primarily served as a CH-53E helicopter pilot during 4 combat tours, and was one of 7 pilots to fly Marine One for two Presidential administrations over the course of his last 5 years in uniform. Preceding his decorated military career, John had experience in railcar logistics and marketing for Trinity Chemical Industries out of Tulsa, OK. John majored in Business Marketing and minored in Management at Oral Roberts University and is currently working on advancing his education towards CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member).  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: John Ballenger

Sergeant Major Jamie Karnes enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in August of 1988 and spent 30 years in the military. Jamie served two deployments to Iraq and multiple overseas assignments throughout his career, including in Mortuary Affairs. Jamie spent time as a civilian law enforcement officer and part of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, working Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and multiple other tasks. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jamie Karnes

Ryan Neel is a retired U.S. Army CW3 who spent almost 25 years in uniform, 17 of those years with the Green Berets. Ryan had eight total deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, plus multiple other deployments around the world. Ryan Neel had his alive day back in 2005. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Ryan Neel

Ben Bateman, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sportsmen For Warriors, is a Veteran of the United States Army. After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Ben served for nine years as a Commissioned Officer initially as an Infantry Officer, and then after being selected serving as a Special Forces officer, "Green Beret." Ben is married to Cresta, also a West Point graduate and Army Combat Veteran. Ben gained extensive leadership and combat experience while serving on combat tours in support of Operation Iraq Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. After deciding to leave the military, Ben faced many of the hardships that most Warriors face after leaving the service experience in trying to gain employment. In 2014, Ben realized that the Warrior community needed an organization committed to tackling the problems our Warriors face. He and his family are fully dedicated to honoring and serving our Warriors.  Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Jay Dorleus joined the military in 2003 as a 12B combat engineer and completed basic training and AIT in July 2003. In 2003, Jay deployed in support of Iraqi freedom and redeployed in 2004. After his second Iraq deployment, Jay applied to attend Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) and was selected to attend the qualification course. Once he graduated the qualification course, Jay was assigned to 3rd Special Forces Group where he deployed 4 additional times in support of operations enduring freedom. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jay Dorleus

Daniel Fielding is a former Special Forces Green Beret, a loving husband, a father of three children, a celebrity bodyguard, and a bestselling author. He developed the tools he puts forth in his book, 'The Asset Mindset', through his life experiences, including his time in the Special Forces. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Neil Hansen began his aviation career as a pilot for Teamster boss Jimmy Hoffa. He later spent more than a decade in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War era as a captain for Air America, the CIA's airline that operated there during the Vietnam era and the ‘Secret War' in Laos. Neil reveled in the risky flying that fed his adrenaline addiction. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: The Veterans Channel

Richard 'Dick' Stroud joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 during World War II, and he continued his service through the Korean War. Richard served as a U.S. Naval Aviator with seven years active duty plus ten years of service in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He was selected to be a member of the U.S. Blue Angels – the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron — in 1951 after the Korean War but was released to inactive duty in August of 1951 because the Navy temporarily canceled the Blue Angels due to budget cuts by the U.S. Department of Defense. Richard began his career at the then-Lockheed Georgia Company in 1952 and retired at age 88 years young in 2015 (62 years and 4 months). At Richard's retirement party, Shan Cooper (then the Marietta site vice president and general manager) said she was willing to tear up his resignation letter because of Richard's commitment to excellence, honor, and respect – all of which had been shown and proven over and over throughout his years of service with the company. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Richard Stroud

Brian Tally is a former Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps who enlisted in 1994 and served active duty from 1995-99. He was stationed in Camp Lejeune NC; Okinawa Japan; and Camp Pendleton California during his service while also serving abroad in six different countries. Brian was a successful small business owner prior to his life changing VA medical malpractice injury in 2016. Brian now spends his time advocating for Veteran(s) reform and authored 4 bills in Congress that effectively closed a 74 year VA legal loophole that destroyed the lives of Veterans and their families for generations. President Trump signed the Brian Tally VA Employment Transparency Act also known as the Tally-Bill into law on January 5th, 2021. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Brian Tally

Michael Cataldi joined the U.S. Marine Corps in January of 2003 and would go on to serve in the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion as a Light Armored Vehicle Repairman from August of 2003 to February of 2007. When vehicles weren't broken, Michael deployed as a Dismount Scout (Infantry), Vehicle Driver, Vehicle Commander, and a Designated Marksman. Michael was honorably discharged in February 2007 as a Corporal. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Hazard Ground

Jason Roncoroni graduated from West Point and spent over 20 years in the United States Army reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and served in multiple high level roles including battalion command, brigade executive officer and deputy director for strategic plans and policy. Jason also deployed his battalion to Afghanistan along with several other deployments in his career. It was those deployments that led Jason down a dark path that he knew he needed help to change course. Once he found the help he needed, he dedicated the next chapter of his life to helping others and preventing suicide in the veteran population. Jason eventually founded his own organization called “Ordinary Hero Coaching.” As a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) from the International Coach Federation, he provides executive coaching for current and future executive leaders. His specialty includes transition coaching for senior leaders and members of the special operations community and executive development for leaders in the corporate world. He is the best-selling author of the book Beyond the Military: A Leader's Handbook for Warrior Reintegration, and he has also created innovative, award winning programs designed to reframe the process of military transition to help leaders achieve a more empowering life beyond the military. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jason Roncoroni

JJ Leonard was born in Dallas, Texas in 1972. JJ received a nomination to the US Naval Academy in 1991, and began his college career there on Induction Day. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1995. He then served as an intelligence officer in the US Marine Corps for five years, specializing in aviation intelligence and strategic targeting. Currently, J.J. is the managing director of the Dallas division at Stream Realty Partners and has more than 18 years of commercial real estate experience. J.J. serves on Carry The Load's Operation Committee and lives in the Dallas area. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: JJ Leonard

Pamela Zembiec is the Gold Star Spouse of Major Douglas Zembiec, a.k.a. “The Lion of Fallujah.” Major Zembiec served in “the Ground Branch of the CIA's Special Activities Division in Iraq when he was killed by small arms fire while leading a raid in Sadr City, a neighborhood of Baghdad, on May 11, 2007. Zembiec was leading a unit of Iraqi forces he had helped train. Reports from fellow service members that were present when he was killed indicate that he had warned his troops to get down before doing so himself and was hit by enemy fire. The initial radio report indicated "five wounded and one martyred" with Zembiec having been killed and his men saved by his warning. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his actions that day. Pamela's first book, 'Selfless Beyond Service, A Story about the Husband, Son, and Father Behind the Lion of Fallujah', is a brutally honest account of her journey through her life, love, and loss with Major Zembiec. This book has since been adapted into a screenplay for development into a major motion picture. She is working on her second book, 'The Shattering, Why We Still Suffer Years After Their Death'. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Pamela Zembiec

This week's guest is Barclay Murphy, the wife of late Army Major, Ed Murphy. Ed spent 16 years in the U.S. Army; his last assignment was in Afghanistan in 2005. He was killed in a helicopter accident on April 6th, 2005. Since her husband's passing, Barclay has worked extensively with The Gold Star Wives of America to change laws that were written many years ago for survivors' benefits and spouses' benefits after their spouse was killed in combat. Barclay sits down with Mark to share Ed's story and her story, and the sacrifice of her family. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Barclay Murphy

Peter Strzok spent four years on active duty in the US Army's 101st Airborne Division. Peter served in the FBI from 1996 to 2018, rising to the deputy of its Counterintelligence Division. During his career, Mr. Strzok worked around the world against national security threats. He is the New York Times bestselling author of Compromised: Counterintelligence and the Threat of Donald J Trump, and co-host of the Cleanup On Aisle 45 podcast. Strzok is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, from which he holds master's and bachelor's degrees in international affairs. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Pete Strzok

Chris Irwin is a retired Navy SEAL Commander who suffered from severe mental and physical chronic illness after his time in the military. Through an extensive journey of self-discovery, he overcame these conditions and now teaches mind fitness through his brand, RARE SENSE. He publishes content through Substack, including weekly training, monthly articles, and podcast episodes. His work is changing the paradigm and stigma around mental health and human performance. Chris is also a singer/songwriter whose original works include the score and song “Sacrifice” from the film Murph: The Protector about Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient Michael Murphy. Both made the shortlist for the 86th (2013) Annual Academy Awards in the categories of “Best Original Score” and “Best Original Song,” respectively. https://www.navysealfoundation.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Chris Irwin

Matt Payne spent over 9 years in the United States Air Force as a Combat Controller and is now the Founder of Inner Circle Solutions. He is a Global Leader with 30 years of experience identifying and managing security risks for Fortune 500 companies. Matt is keenly interested in emerging trends in the corporate sector and seeks to find and implement innovative processes, controls, and tools to help reduce risk for companies. Career highlights include being a retired USAF 24th Special Tactics Squadron (Joint Special Operations Command) Combat Controller, Retired Chief Humane Law Enforcement Officer, and Former Chief Security Officer (financial, technology, entertainment, and engineering). https://1innercircle.com/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Matt Payne

After graduating high school in 1990, Darrell Utt joined the U.S. Army. During his service, Darrell was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with 'Valor' for heroic actions and leadership during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq in 2006. He was also awarded four Bronze Star Medals for achievement and service in Iraq. As a Special Forces Team Sergeant, his Operational Detachment Alpha was recognized and awarded the 2006 Larry Thorne Award for best Operational Detachment in 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). Master Sergeant Darrell Utt retired from the U.S. Army Special Forces in January of 2017. In February 2022, the President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation selected Darrell Utt to be the Chief of Business Operations. https://mohmuseum.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Darrell Utt

James Bruton is a former U.S. Army Green Beret, retired Lieutenant Colonel, who spent 28 years in the Army between Active Duty and Reserves. James has multiple deployments to Southeast Asia, including a two year stint in Vietnam, as well into Thailand and worked a secret covert mission in Laos with the Lao Army, training and advising them. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: James Bruton

Byron Rodgers is a dedicated Executive Protection Agent, Video Blogger, Published Author, and Veteran with a decade of private security experience across over 60 countries. A former US Marine Corps infantry Squad Leader with two deployments to Iraq, Byron transitioned seamlessly to civilian life, becoming an Executive Protection Agent and authoring "Finding Meaning After the Military." Byron serves as CEO of Bravo Research Group, a boutique private security firm, and founded Protector Nation, a training company for first responders, private security professionals, and civilians. He operates The League of Executive Protection Specialists, an executive protection school and training organization, and consults for high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Byron Rodgers

Theresa Carpenter is an active-duty Navy Commander with 27 years of service, including 10 years as an enlisted aviation electrician on the S-3B Viking aircraft. She currently serves as public affairs branch head for the maritime arm of NATO, responsible for all seagoing operations under its oversight. Upon her commissioning in 2006, she became a Surface Warfare Officer and was subsequently accepted into the public affairs community in 2008. She's deployed three times to combat zones and was assigned with the Navy Seals and Army Special Forces in the Philippines in 2008-2009. After that tour, she served as a media and plans officer for the U.S. Indo-Pacom from 2010-2013, one of three tours in a joint environment. She brings extensive experience working in humanitarian missions across the Asia Pacific, including the first land-based iteration of the Navy's Pacific Partnership mission, coordinating with multiple Embassies, Non-Governmental Organizations, and USAID. Her award-winning programs across multiple commands have resulted in 18 Navy awards for public affairs excellence. https://beacons.ai/theresacarpenter Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Theresa Carpenter

Gary Volkman spent a total of 24 years in the U.S. Army, between active duty and the Army National Guard. Gary served as a military technician and retired as a first sergeant. He was a combat medic and a flight medic who had multiple deployments, including Afghanistan and Bosnia. Gary also spent time in his career teaching Rescue and recently retired as a firefighter in the state of California. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Gary Volkman

Lieutenant Colonel Jason Smith retired from the US Marine Corps on 1 Sept 2016 after 22 years of service.  He joined the Marine Corps in January of 1995 after graduating from Louisiana State University. As an infantry officer, Jason commanded Marines at every rank during his service, including two combat deployments to Iraq as a company commander. He was in charge of Marine Corps recruiting for the state of New Jersey from 2007-2010 and served in units from North Carolina, California, Virginia, Louisiana and the country of Bahrain. Jason's last posting was as the senior USMC exchange officer with the Royal Marines of the United Kingdom. His personal decorations include the Silver Star medal, Bronze Star medal and the Combat Action Ribbon.  Jason is a distinguished graduate of the Naval War College, was selected as the Basic School's instructor of the year for 2000-2001, and was awarded the Marine Corps University Rose Award for teaching excellence. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jason Smith

David Hollis grew up in a small town in eastern Oklahoma that was little more than a fuel stop along Interstate 40. At the age of seventeen, he resolved that his escape from the purgatory of middle America would be to join the U.S. Army. Throughout his Army career, David served in tough units, completed challenging leadership and tactical training courses, deployed to five countries, and led 189 combat missions in Iraq. His military experience and the soldiers he served with have inspired the characters and stories in his writing. David retired from the Army in 2010 and has worked for the Department of the Army, the Department of Veterans Affairs and served on advisory councils for the executive certificate program, Transformative Leadership in Disruptive Times at both, The George Washington University and Seton Hall University. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: David Hollis

Dan Kostrzebski was born and raised in rural western New York State. His humble, small-town beginnings blossomed into a noteworthy 40 years of military and government service. While working his way up the enlisted ranks, Dan served in various Military Occupational Skills, including Military Police, Ordinance, and Special Operations, finishing his military career with the infamous 5th Special Forces Group. Dan's service in Special Operations took him to the Middle East and East Africa, along with numerous military exercises throughout the United States. Dan is also the author of the book, 'No One is Fatherless'. The book features 365 Daily Devotionals. https://nooneisfatherless.com/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Dan Kostrzebski

Ayman Kafel survived civil wars in Africa and Lebanon before immigrating to the United States in 1988. After witnessing the horrors of September 11, 2001, Ayman enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and deployed to Iraq in 2005. While there, he conducted over 30,000 miles of combat patrols and military missions. He coordinated and worked with various units in the Army due to his ability to speak Arabic. After returning from war and being medically discharged from the military, Ayman decided to continue serving his country and community by becoming a police officer, and he has been on the job for over 15 years. Recognizing a need in the training program for police officers, Ayman started Hybrid Wolf Blue Line Strategies, LLC and began writing extensively about his experiences. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Ayman Kafel

After an inter-service transfer and cross-commissioning from the U.S. Air Force to the U.S. Navy in 1992, John Doolittle transferred into the Navy. From 1996 to 2017, John was assigned to various SEAL Teams and conducted multiple deployments throughout the European, African, Pacific, and Middle East theaters of operations. Most of his Navy career was focused on our military's reaction to 9/11; a busy time for John and his family. John's last duty station in the Navy was at U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), where he led the Preservation of the Force and Family (POTFF) program supporting the 73,000 personnel making up the USSOCOM enterprise. After 25 years in the Navy, he retired from the SEAL Teams, and started speaking to organizations and teams about the importance of resilience, leadership, and trust. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: John Doolittle

New York Times bestselling author Dan Schilling, Lt. Col., USAF (ret.) spent more than 30 years in special operations, primarily as a Combat Controller and Special Tactics Officer, but began his military service as an infantry paratrooper. His numerous combat, clandestine, rescue and humanitarian missions have taken him around the world and include Operation Gothic Serpent, popularly known as Black Hawk Down, where he is credited with saving the lives of a Ranger and Team Six SEAL while under heavy enemy fire. Since leaving the military, Dan has pursued a renaissance existence, authoring multiple books. Based on his groundbreaking personal safety book, The Power of Awareness, he founded The Power of Awareness Institute, committed to making humans safe from crime and combating hate. https://www.danschillingbooks.com/ https://www.mypoa.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Dan Schilling

A decorated combat veteran with multiple deployments, LT. Col. Jason Pike, served 31 years in the US Army including nine years overseas in five countries. Jason earned over 30 service awards & badges and his diversity of Army jobs, assignments, and schools from age 17 to 48. His book A Soldier Against All Odds compiles all his life events in an inspiring storytelling format with the ups and downs of a life in uniform. With a straightforward account of one man's journey, he inspires audiences nationwide and shows how to be resilient and to persevere no matter what disadvantages and life struggles may happen. http://jasonpike.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jason Pike

Allison Jaslow is an Iraq War Veteran, nationally-recognized veterans advocate, dedicated public servant, and the CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). A former Army Captain, Allison was branched as a Quartermaster Officer which in the Post-9/11 wartime environment meant she'd quickly become a multi-functional logistician, including becoming a guntruck platoon commander on her first deployment to Iraq. She served two combat tours in Iraq from 2004 - 05 and then again from 2007-08 for 15 months during "the surge." Nationally, Allison has been a loud voice on the need to bridge the military-civilian divide and around the unique challenges faced by women service members and veterans. https://iava.org/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Allison Jaslow

Jamie Efaw graduated from West Point with a BS in Psychology in 1993. He retired from the Army in 2019 and transitioned from the Army using the resources of the COMMIT Foundation. Jamie's military assignments include numerous jobs with Army Engineers, serving as a professor at West Point, and various jobs within Psychological Operations. Jamie was selected for command at the company, battalion and brigade levels and served at nearly all echelons in the military. Jamie now works for the non-profit organization, Young Life, and has also served as a transition coach with The Commit Foundation since 2019. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jamie Efaw

Aubrey McDade served in the United States Marine Corps for over 18 years on active duty, until he was medically retired. For his actions in Fallujah, Iraq in 2004, Aubrey was awarded the Navy Cross; becoming the 2nd African American to receive the award since Doris Miller of World War II and the first African American to receive the Navy Cross post 9/11. Aubrey currently serves as the Vice President of Programs alongside LaDanian Tomlinson at the Tomlinson Center. The Tomlinson Center establishes high production cultures and creates elite citizens; working with student athletes and troubled youth, grades 7-college. Aubrey is also starting a non-profit organization called "Life Changer", with one of his Marine brothers, to help young men and women, ages 21 and younger, without fathers and/or who are in foster care. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Aubrey McDade

Brady Myers joined the U.S. Marines at 18 and served as an Infantry Mortarman. After leaving the military, Brady worked as a private security contractor and pursued a career in law enforcement. After leaving law enforcement, due to the political climate, Brady found his passion in the recruiting space. He is the Director of Recruiting for Corehire, a veteran owned business that places veterans and former first responders with business clients across the United States. Brady is also the Foreman at Stillwater Ranch, which is a non-profit horse ranch that provides services to local veterans in Colorado. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Brady Myers

Major General Patrick Donahoe, US Army Retired, culminated more than 33 and a half years in uniform as the Commanding General of the US Army Maneuver Center of Excellence and Fort Benning. He entered the retired rolls on January 1, 2023. General Donahoe served as a career Armor and Cavalry Officer and served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kuwait, Jordan, Germany and Korea as well as throughout the United States. His awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star and the Combat Action Badge. 1st Battalion of the 67th Armor earned the Valorous Unit Citation for actions against the enemy in 2005 and 2006 in Iraq while General Donahoe was in command. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Patrick Donahoe

Jacob Edwards started his professional career in 2003 as a Combat Engineer/Sapper in the United States Marine Corps. Jacob served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant from the Marine Corps Reserves in 2009. In 2010, he was hired as a civilian Combat Skills Instructor to help support requirements for military troops deploying to hostile/austere environments. In 2012, he transitioned to an advisor based training command and within one year rose to the ranks of Assistant Chief Instructor where his training supported military advisors deploying to over 140 countries. In 2017, he founded Threat Response LLC dba LEAD Tactics. Jacob has collaborated with some of the top professionals in the security/crisis management industry. LEAD Tactics is a training/development organization that specializes in training adults and children the appropriate action for life's most challenging moments. https://threatresponsetraining.com/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jacob Edwards

Heidi Langbein-Allen is an author and the daughter of a former soldier in the German army. Heidi wrote a book titled, 'Save The Last Bullet - Memoir of a Boy Soldier in Hitler's Army'. The book is a story of how her father was taken away by the Nazis at thirteen years old during World War II and sent off to fight in the German army for the Third Reich against the Americans. https://www.heidilangbeinauthor.com/ Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Heidi Langbein-Allen