S.O.S. (Stories of Service) - Ordinary people who do extraordinary work

Send us a text The story opens at a dinner party and ends with a near-unheard-of legal result: dismissal with prejudice. In between is retired Colonel Dan Wilson's toughest battle—how a decorated Marine became the target of a false allegation, why the case grew despite exculpatory DNA, and what happens when command climate, politics, and process collide. We trace Dan's life from childhood in Africa through four decades of Marine command, the accusation, and months under a gag order as headlines spread. He recounts being sent to the brig, choosing general population, and finding purpose there, then explains a military justice system civilians rarely see—small panels, nonunanimous verdicts, command influence, and pressure that drives overcharging. Even after an appellate court dismissed the key conviction with prejudice, the fight continued through administrative penalties and retirement disputes. Dan lays out needed reforms—ending command influence, requiring unanimous verdicts, opening voir dire, raising evidence standards, and providing real post-exoneration relief—while sharing how faith, sobriety, routine, and writing rebuilt his life.  If you care about military justice, due process, and the gap between headlines and truth, this conversation doesn't pull punches. Listen, share, tell us which reform you'd start with—and if it hits home, subscribe, review, and pass it on. Stories of Service presents guests' stories and opinions in their own words, reflecting their personal experiences and perspectives. While shared respectfully and authentically, the podcast does not independently verify all statements. Views expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the host, producers, government agencies, or podcast affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA hard conversation worth having: we sit down with retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Gade to examine how the VA disability system, built with noble intent, can trap veterans in dependency and distort how America sees its warriors. Drawing on his combat wounds, hospital experience, academic work, and policy roles, Daniel makes a clear distinction between having a condition and becoming that condition—and shows how incentives, ratings, and advocacy ecosystems can push veterans toward the latter.We trace why claimed conditions increased across generations even as sustained direct combat remained limited for most. Daniel explains the politics behind expanding the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities and why ratings like sleep apnea at 50% undermine public trust when compared to losing an eye or a below-knee amputation. He challenges the emotional “1% served” shield, arguing that service is a voluntary civic duty already compensated with pay and benefits, not a lifetime blank check on taxpayers.Most importantly, we focus on fixes. Daniel proposes linking mental health compensation to active treatment so care drives recovery rather than pay driving identity. He urges redefining disability to align with activities of daily living and high standards like SSDI, while shifting resources from marginal payouts to high-impact transition: SkillBridge access without command vetoes, employer pipelines, reskilling, and entrepreneurship. We discuss how work sustains identity, how Individual Unemployability can backfire, and why every dubious claim delays care for those with amputations, TBI, sexual assault trauma, and acute PTSD.If you care about veterans' dignity, purpose, and long-term outcomes, this conversation offers a roadmap that prioritizes treatment, transition, and true service-connected disability. Listen, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a review with the reform you'd implement first.Stories of Service presents guests' stories and opinions in their own words, reflecting their personal experiences and perspectives. While shared respectfully and authentically, the podcast does not independently verify all statements. Views expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the host, producers, government agencies, orSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA forgotten reformer changed how we think about military education, then got written out of the story. We dig into Alden Partridge's bold vision for the citizen-soldier, why his mastery-based model threatened entrenched interests, and how his practical ideas—shorter paths for proven mastery, rigorous field training, and decentralized leadership—can still fix what's broken in today's force.Franklin Annis walks us through Partridge's rise at West Point during the War of 1812, the political crossfire that led to his court-martial, and his pivot to building militia-focused academies that influenced Norwich and VMI. We connect the dots to modern pain points: time-in-seat schooling that bores high performers, career assembly lines that miss real talent, and a headquarters culture that mistakes long hours for results. You'll hear how competency-based progression, pretesting, and mission command can restore merit, accelerate excellence, and respect the only irreplaceable resource—time.We also ground the conversation in philosophy and practice. Stoicism offers a leader's toolkit for fair discipline, self-accountability, and resilience under pressure. A constitutional view of defense argues for a lean active force backed by a trained, capable militia—an approach that can lower costs and improve readiness by leveraging real-world civilian skills found across the Guard and Reserve. And we wrestle candidly with standards and inclusion: equal dignity, equal rules, transparent consequences, and selection by performance.If you care about military education, talent management, or building better leaders faster, this conversation gives you a roadmap rooted in history and tested by experience. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review with the one change you'd make first—what would you accelerate, and what would you cut?Stories of Service presents guests' stories and opinions in their own words, reflecting their personal experiences and perspectives. While shared respectfully and authentically, the podcast does not independently verify all statements. Views expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the host, producers, government agencies, or podcast affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textImagine trading a wall of meetings for a calendar with white stripes where thinking, planning, and decisive action actually happen. That's the shift we explore with Juliet Funt—keynote speaker, author, and founder of the Juliet Funt Group—whose work helps teams cut busy work and create the bandwidth to do their best thinking.We dig into why white space isn't idleness; it's a performance tool. Juliet shows how modern work confuses motion with progress, burying judgment under email, back-to-back calls, and task churn. She shares simple, sticky tools that change behavior fast: the wedge (short breaks between commitments that let you digest and decide), the yellow list (batching non-urgent asks to slash message sprawl), and the re-entry day (protecting the first day back from leave so real disconnection is possible). The throughline is practical: waste less, think more, and reinvest saved time into the work that moves the mission.We also examine a striking divide in the military: absolute precision outside the office versus sprawling inefficiency inside it. Juliet connects the dots between sleep, judgment, and readiness, arguing that saved hours only matter when they're translated into training, rehearsal, and strategic thought. She makes a case for intact-unit change, embedding skills in PME and ROTC, and building norms that outlast leadership rotations. The goal isn't fewer meetings for their own sake; it's better decisions, stronger teams, and outcomes people are proud to ship.If you've ever felt trapped by your calendar, this conversation offers a way out—and a way forward. Listen, steal a tool, and start small. Then tell us: which meeting will you shorten, and what will you do with the time you win back? Subscribe, share with a teammate who needs breathing room, and leave a review to help others find the show.The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textWhat does it really cost to lead with integrity when the system leans the other way? We sit down with Forrest, a former naval flight officer and mission commander, whose career bends from high school dropout to strike planner for Kosovo—and later into the crosshairs after he refused to hide a serious security breach on a remote island base. The stories move fast: carrier decks and air tasking orders, isolated duty stations that no one wanted, and the everyday creativity required to keep crews motivated and safe.Forrest opens up about the moment a civilian smuggled a pistol and ammo onto San Nicolas Island to kill feral cats, how his CO ordered him to bury the report, and why he said no. That choice triggered nineteen charges, an NCIS probe, a revoked clearance, and threats of prison and pension loss. With a sharp JAG at his side and a website full of documents, he fought back, demanded a court-martial, and watched the case crumble. Along the way, we talk Desert Storm's waning days, the grind of multinational targeting in Kosovo, and the hard truth that institutions can honor your work on Monday and disown you by Friday.Beyond the uniform, Forrest built a thriving charter operation in California, rescued people at sea, and eventually traded the coast for Idaho, where a wolf encounter became a courtroom headline. The through line is steady: tell the truth, document everything, and keep showing up for the people who count on you. If you care about military leadership, whistleblower courage, and practical strategies for advocacy when the process turns against you, you'll find real tools here—plus candid advice on writing a memorable military memoir that sticks to facts and reads like lived experience.If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a lift, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find these stories. Your support helps us bring forward voices that remind us why service, courage, and clarity still matter.The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completenesSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textPower reveals character, and nowhere is that more visible than inside military sexual assault response. We sit down with Jeff Goris—career aviator, senior SHARP advocate at Fort Hood, and later a Department of the Army civilian—to unpack how a program meant to protect survivors gets kneecapped by backlogs, weak command emphasis, and investigations run by the very people with skin in the game. From the McQueen scandal to the wake-up after Vanessa Guillén, Jeff traces the specific mechanisms that fail victims and also crush the falsely accused: preliminary inquiries used to pre-shape outcomes, administrative actions that sidestep due process, and clearance removals that quietly end careers.Across an unflinching conversation, Jeff explains the ethics of real advocacy: know the policies cold, focus on the victim's needs, and document every step. He shares hard-won tactics for anyone at risk of retaliation—professional liability insurance, early legal counsel, and meticulous records—while making the case that true reform depends on independent investigations outside command influence. We talk about culture honestly: why achievement often trumps character at senior levels, how retaliation silences truth-tellers, and why the “court of public opinion” sometimes becomes the only path to accountability when internal systems stall.This episode offers a practical roadmap and a challenge. If leaders want safer formations, they must separate adjudication from command interests, empower IGs to investigate retaliation, and give both accusers and accused the right to present evidence and witnesses. Until then, advocates and allies can still win small, meaningful battles—supporting survivors, protecting whistleblowers, and telling verified stories that make indifference costly. Listen, share, and help push for due process, independent investigations, and culture that rewards courage over convenience. If this resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what reform would you mandate first?The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy oSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA 62-mile race that lets you sleep at night and still pushes you to your edge? We're bringing a new kind of endurance event to the Colorado backcountry to honor Navy SEAL Ryan Larkin and fund life-changing sleep recovery through 62 Romeo. Over three days from Montrose to Telluride, ten fire teams face rugged terrain, military-style navigation, and surprise challenges that reward strategy and teamwork—not just speed.Rob Sweetman, a former SEAL and founder of 62 Romeo, shares how Ryan's legacy fueled nearly a decade of work in sleep science and why sleep performance sits at the core of mental health, hormones, energy, relationships, and long-term success. We walk through the race format—bronze, silver, and gold medals for day-by-day finishes and a platinum winner crowned by points—plus a design choice that flips the endurance script: planned overnight rest to model healthy recovery while still testing grit. It's built to be hard, safe, and meaningful.We also dig into the technology bringing the story to life. Our media team engineered custom LoRaWAN trackers and 3D maps so friends and family can follow teams in real time, watch live check-ins from aid stations, and experience the landscape from afar. With up to 80 volunteer roles—from registration and gear issue to camp operations and hydration points—there are countless ways to join the mission. Prefer to compete? Applications open for four-person fire teams and solo candidates who want to be placed, with a fair, safety-minded selection process.More than a race, this is a movement that turns grief into action, connects people through the outdoors, and funds sleep scholarships and nature retreats at Happy Canyon Ranch. If you believe in the power of nature, teamwork, and real rest to heal, you'll feel at home here.Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a purpose-filled challenge, and leave a review to help more listeners find the mission. Ready to volunteer, watch live, or apply to race? Your move.Race details - https://www.rliar.org/Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textHeadlines say the VA system is broken and rife with abuse. Our conversation with Marine veteran Clayton Sims tells a different story—one grounded in lived experience, policy fluency, and a community-first approach to getting claims right without fear or costly consultants.Clayton shares how a rough transition and a hurried VSO visit pushed him to learn the language of 38 CFR and the evidence behind service connection. We unpack the realities of infantry life—miles in boots under load, daily wear that wrecks feet, ankles, and backs—and why conditions like flat feet and sleep apnea aren't punchlines, they're predictable outcomes. We also go deeper than combat. MST, toxic command climates, uneven medical boards, and administrative limbo can all drive mental health injuries that are real and compensable when documented properly.We cut through the noise about “rampant fraud” with data: far fewer veterans file than most assume, and only a portion reach 100 percent. The bigger problem is confusion. Clayton maps the routes that actually win—direct, secondary, aggravation, presumptive, MUCMI—and the kinds of evidence that matter: deployment health assessments, awards narratives, buddy statements, specialty opinions, and clear medical links. He explains how CivDiv helps veterans self-advocate or meet VSOs prepared, flipping the script on an industry that profits from complexity.If you've felt overwhelmed by forms and jargon, you'll walk away with a clearer path and a stronger mindset. And beyond claims, Clayton leaves a vital reminder: don't isolate. Find your circle—online, at a VFW, through church, or with a few trusted friends—because community can save time, money, and lives.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a veteran who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest question about VA claims. Your story might guide our next episode.The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, orSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA university president tells faculty to “keep doing what you're doing” on DEI and critical race theory—just don't get caught. That's the moment Dr. Rick Adante, a cognitive neuroscientist and NASA analog mission lead, decided to blow the whistle. What follows is a rare, unvarnished look at how policy theatre and word swaps can allegedly shield millions in federal and state funds while undermining the very laws and standards meant to protect students, researchers, and the public.We walk through Rick's path from a turbulent childhood to leading-edge work with NASA's HERA and NEEMO missions, where merit and team performance are non-negotiable. He explains how DEI shifted from stopping discrimination to empowering it, why “diversity of what?” is the only honest starting point, and how institutions can weaponize language—changing course titles and catalogs—while preserving the same outcomes in practice. With Supreme Court rulings narrowing race-based admissions and executive orders tying compliance to funding, the stakes are no longer theoretical. They are legal, operational, and ethical.You'll hear the mechanics of an alleged “comply in secret” plan, the risks of decoupling selection from merit, and the downstream impact on defense research, GI Bill dollars, and military training. Rick describes refusing hush money, losing his tenured position, and gaining momentum as donors, journalists, and policymakers take notice. His message is blunt and hopeful: enforce the law, audit for real compliance, define diversity in terms that improve performance, and reward excellence with transparency. Courage is a muscle; use it daily so it's strong when it counts.If this conversation challenged you—or clarified the stakes—share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe for more candid, evidence-driven episodes. Your voice helps bring sunlight to the places that need it most.The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, pSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text A decorated field artillery officer and former West Point garrison commander says one strange night derailed 27 years of service—and exposed how fragile due process can be on a military post. Tony Bianchi recounts leading a week of storm recovery, an alumni dinner where a trivial carving-station moment sparked a rumor, and a late drive home later portrayed as a gate run. Hours after he went to bed, senior MPs gathered behind his house and colleagues woke him at 2:45 AM—an entry a DMV judge would later label a Fourth Amendment violation.  We trace the aftermath: suspension, relief, and a permanently filed GOMOR before any federal charge; no AR 15-6 despite conflicts; and video the government held that undercut its narrative. Tony describes why he refused chemical tests, what happened in the station, and how leaders leaned on “legally sufficient” while ignoring common sense. In court, a jury acquitted him of DWI and disorderly conduct, leaving only a stop-sign violation. A Grade Determination Review Board kept his O6 retirement. His FTCA claim and GOMOR appeal continue.  This is a candid inside view of military justice shaped by command-level turf fights, MP overreach, and leaders outsourcing judgment to legal advisors. Tony isn't trying to burn the institution—he's a West Point grad who loves the Army. He's asking for better investigations, real accountability, and leaders willing to weigh facts over optics. If a garrison commander can be pulled into a federal case on such thin grounds, what protects everyone else?  Subscribe for more stories that push for reform with receipts, not rhetoric. If this conversation resonated, share it with a teammate and leave a review with the one change you'd make to strengthen due process on base. The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a text This episode pulls back the curtain on a NATO headquarters usually seen only through press releases. Marine officer and Foreign Area Officer Andres Caceres explains how honest analysis on Afghanistan, ISIS's rise, and Russia's moves toward Crimea collided with a staff culture that valued appearances over results—and what happened when he refused to go along.  Andres contrasts early command lessons—where clear standards cut alcohol incidents to zero in Japan—with a Joint Operations Center focused on tracking numbers instead of real effects. He outlines overlooked signs of the Afghan Army's fragility, how Maliki's repression helped ISIS reemerge, why Mosul fell so quickly, and the pre-Crimea indicators many ignored. His point is stark: when institutions avoid hard truths, surprise becomes inevitable.  The conversation's second half tackles the personal cost of speaking up. After asking for a fair reassignment aligned with his FAO role, Andres faced a complaint, a limited investigation, and pressure to accept punishment without full access to evidence. He describes selective witness lists, a suspended clearance, a late allegation that swayed a board, and a later letter admitting coercion. We also discuss altered medical records, downgraded PTSD diagnoses, and why due process must be real, not rhetorical.  For those focused on NATO accountability, leadership, and whistleblower protections, this episode offers practical reforms—from enforcing perjury penalties at boards to safeguarding medical documentation—and a reminder that integrity still matters.  If this resonates, subscribe, share, and leave a review with the one reform you'd prioritize. Your ideas help push this conversation into the rooms where it needs to be heard. The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textThe story begins where many people stay silent: a brutal childhood, a foster system that felt like survival training, and the desperate need to belong somewhere that demanded the best. Daniel Odell found that place in the Army, even as he served in a role many overlook. As a cook in Iraq, he learned how a hot meal and five minutes of kindness could hold fear at bay. He also chased perspective—volunteering for flights, witnessing the shock of medevac tents, and carrying images that didn't fade when the noise stopped.Stateside, ambition met accident. Advanced training led to a fall, a damaged spine, and a season of hiding pain to avoid failing the mission. One blunt truth from a leader—if someone died picking up your slack, you'd live with that—reframed what duty meant. The next chapter was slower and darker: repeat therapies, heavy meds, and a mind that wanted out. A surgeon refused to promise miracles, only a tiny improvement. That centimeter of motion and a surge of feeling in his fingers were enough to break the cycle. Fate then brought a partner with paws: a white standard poodle trained to help and impossible to ignore, complete with a green “hat” dyed on his head. The Fluffy Poodle got Daniel out of the house and into conversations that mattered.What finally stopped the noose was a line from a fellow veteran: ending your life would be a disservice to those who never got the chance to come home. That sentence anchors Daniel's mission today. We walk through how he built Motafate (motivate.com), turned daily recovery into purposeful content, and scaled service through social media. From practical PTSD coping tools and service dog training to adapting routines for chronic pain, this episode is a guide for veterans and civilians navigating trauma, transition, and identity. We also share the Today Show surprise that celebrated his ongoing service and the communities—American Legion, VFW, church groups—where healing becomes possible.If you've felt alone in the aftermath of trauma, this conversation offers steps, not slogans. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—what small action will you choose today?Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA submariner's guide to fixing family policy does not begin in a committee room; it begins in a NICU. Jeremy Hilton joins us to share how his daughter's complex medical needs reshaped his Navy career and pushed him into a mission to reform the Exceptional Family Member Program and modernize Tricare for military kids. He walks through how lived experience can drive real policy change, from filing an IG complaint that actually moved the needle to finding mentors who opened Hill doors and building coalitions that delivered wins like hospice access for military children.We break down what EFMP is meant to be, a readiness tool for families with medical and educational needs, and why inconsistent execution across services forces too many families to rebuild care at every PCS. Jeremy explains the real cost of each move, from securing specialists to restarting therapies and navigating new school systems. We cover why standardization matters, how a tiered approach could support the most complex cases, and why portability should anchor reform. On Tricare, we address pediatric gaps built into Medicare-based policy, the challenges of aging out, and practical fixes that match how children actually grow and recover.From MOAA to NMFA, from report language to statutory change, this conversation shows how to frame issues for both political parties without losing the human story. The closing challenge is clear. EFMP staffing, transparent assignments, and care portability are not perks for families. They are national security requirements. Share this with teammates navigating EFMP and tell us what reform should come first. The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest's own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates. Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA decorated OSI agent who helped capture Taliban fighters and aided disaster survivors should be building a life in his forties. Instead, Robert Condon has spent 12 years behind bars, sentenced to 30, while his mother—retired Toledo police officer Holly Yeager—keeps fighting a case she believes was built on pressure, politics, and broken process. We open the file and follow the twists: a drug ring investigation that put Robert at odds with command priorities, a single accuser whose SANE exam reportedly found no injuries consistent with her extreme account, and two more “victims” cultivated through interviews that steered words toward charges and dangled immunity for unrelated misconduct.Holly walks us through the evidence gaps that still haunt the record: a second phone noted but never collected, weeks of exculpatory messages lost when Robert's device was destroyed after chain-of-custody issues, and discovery that surfaced a concealed felony history too late to test at trial. We talk Article 32 anomalies, special victims counsel influence, and a panel of superiors deciding guilt under the shadow of congressional pressure. Non‑unanimous verdicts, repeated speedy‑trial slippage, and unsworn statements shaped a path to a 30‑year sentence far above average. On appeal, mismatched and sealed record-of-trial pages made it harder for judges to validate citations or see context, dimming the chance for dissent and relief.Beyond the legal maze lies a family's cost: a son who lost his thirties, a 92‑year‑old grandfather running out of road trips, and a parole process that hinges on treatment requiring admissions he won't make. Holly's message is blunt and humane: protect real survivors and protect due process. Stop manufacturing narratives to save weak cases. Build independent evidence integrity, require unanimous verdicts, insulate panels from command, and hold investigators to the same standards we demand in civilian courts.Listen, share, and weigh in with your perspective on military justice reform. If this story moved you, subscribe, leave a review, and send the episode to someone who cares about truth over optics.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA single afternoon changed everything. Lisa Regina—actor, filmmaker, and founder of A Right to Heal—was assaulted by her fiancé, then thrust into a tabloid cyclone that made recovery even harder. What followed wasn't a rebrand; it was a rebuilding. With a legal pad and a pen, she wrote her way out of shock, turned fragments into a monologue, and found a voice that could lift others who felt alone.We dive into Lisa's creative roots, the grind of early set life, and the quiet lessons she learned watching James Gandolfini transform before a take. Then we sit with the hard part: the violence, the ER, the media's appetite for “the shot,” and the slow, stubborn work of healing. From that crucible came a mission—to use storytelling and film as a path back to agency—and an unexpected bridge to veterans. When Retired Army Captain Leslie Nicole Smith stepped onto Lisa's set, the room felt like a platoon: clear roles, mutual trust, mission focus. That shared DNA led to a bigger idea.Enter drones. As a Part 107 pilot, Lisa saw how flight taps veterans' strengths—systems, calm, precision—and created the Veterans Drone Training Program to deliver real credentials, not platitudes. We talk candidly about funding wins and gaps, why aerial skills open doors in film, real estate, inspection, agriculture, and search and rescue, and how disabled veterans can pilot from a chair and still build a business. You'll hear stories of lives nudged back on course: an Air Force amputee trading Uber shifts for commercial flights, a Marine captain capturing stunning yacht footage to grow his brand.All of this momentum feeds Heroic Episodes, Lisa's scripted series executive produced by Joe Mantegna. Framed around a multigenerational military family's neighborhood bar, the show adapts true veteran stories with heart and honesty, weaving in resource links and spotlighting veteran‑owned businesses. We discuss why independence matters—crowdfunding five dollars at a time to ensure veterans are hired on set and the storytelling stays authentic.Listen for the practical takeaways on PTS language and support, for the blueprint that connects art to employment, and for the reminder that community is built one skill, one story, one person at a time.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textHeadlines rarely match the ground truth. We sit down with retired Lt Col Lenore Hakinos to unpack what it took to stand up Camp Delphi in Donna, Texas during the 2021 surge of unaccompanied minors. As a joint planner with deep logistics and emergency management experience, Lenore helped build an expeditionary base camp—dorms, medical intake, process flow—all under HHS leadership with ORR and FEMA in support. What she found was a system designed for care but strained by scale: no biometrics at intake, thin sponsor vetting, rotating leaders, and case managers overwhelmed by tens of thousands of children needing placement.We walk through how federal roles actually worked on the ground, why intake relied on paper notes and consulate calls, and the risks that come with speed without verification. From “recycled” identities to a transitory school built for kids who were supposed to stay mere weeks, the picture is complex and deeply human. Lenore's team imposed order where they could—stop‑movement censuses, daily reconciliations—but the bigger tension remained: how to balance humanitarian urgency with anti‑trafficking safeguards and accountability that follows a child beyond the tent line.The conversation doesn't stop at the border. After retiring, Lenore channeled that same mission mindset into the American Legion, reviving a local post, supporting veterans' services, creating scholarships, and rebuilding community traditions in a rapidly growing Texas county. It's a reminder that while national policy can feel distant, local service is always within reach. Listen for a candid, expert look at HHS, ORR, FEMA coordination, migrant child placement, logistics under pressure, and what it means to serve when duty meets doubt—and stay for practical hope about building strong communities.If this resonated, subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who cares about border policy, child safety, and real‑world public service.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textWhat would you do when the order on your desk contradicts the conviction in your gut? We sit down with former Green Beret captain John Frankman to unpack the moment duty collided with conscience during the COVID vaccine mandate—and the ripple effects that followed. From early pressure cues and deployment rules to a surreal JRTC pause where troops were told to decide in the woods, John walks us through the machinery of coercion as he experienced it: shifting policies, career threats, and a system that prized compliance over competence.John's path gives the story rare texture. Before Special Forces, he spent four years in Catholic seminary, steeped in philosophy, pastoral care, and daily prayer. That formation shaped his refusal, but it also informed a broader critique of leadership: if irregular warfare selects thinkers who challenge assumptions, why did the culture abandon critical thought at home? We talk lost missions, a missed West Point ethics billet, an exemption that languished for over a year, and a town hall exchange where he pressed senior leaders on EUA versus FDA approvals. The result is a human account of policy made real—how trust erodes, how moral injury forms, and what it takes to step away from a career you love.We also look forward. John shares cautious optimism about a reinstatement task force, the need for transparent processes, and why accountability matters if the military wants disillusioned veterans to return. Along the way, we step into his inner life—how discipline, tradition, and prayer sustained him—and wrestle with the central question any leader should ask: are we building a force that can win without breaking the people who serve?If you value straight talk about leadership, ethics, and service in uniform, this one's for you. Listen, share with a friend who cares about the military's future, and leave a review to help more people find the show.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textA uniform shouldn't cost a parent their child. We sit down with retired Army officer, attorney, and parent advocate Erhan Bettistani to unpack how military service collides with family court—and why a little-known administrative process, the Family Advocacy Program's Incident Determination Committee (FAP IDC), can tilt custody decisions without basic due process. Erhan brings research published in Family Court Review and Military Law Review, plus firsthand stories from Warrior Family Advocacy, to show how “substantiated” findings spill into civilian courts, inflame stress, and even factor into veteran suicide risk.Across an hour, we trace four forces that often work against service members: media narratives of extremes, the stigma of deployments and constant PCS moves, assumptions around PTSD and mental health, and the shadow-court mechanics of FAP IDC. We compare FAP procedures to the old Title IX campus model—informal, opaque, and vulnerable to error—and highlight reforms that state courts and the Department of Education have already embraced: clear notice, access to the evidence file, counsel in the room, cross-examination, written findings, and recorded hearings. The takeaway is stark but hopeful: the Department of Defense can integrate these protections now, without waiting on Congress, and still support victims with clinical care while improving fairness for all parties.We also get practical. If you're navigating divorce or custody as a military parent, you'll hear strategies for documenting stability, addressing PTSD stigma, planning around deployments, and securing counsel early in the right jurisdiction. Erhan explains how Warrior Family Advocacy funds initial attorney consults and offers grounded guidance so you can breathe, plan, and protect your bond with your child. Abuse must be taken seriously—and so must process. Better rules mean better outcomes for families, for justice, and for the mental health of those who serve.If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a military family, and leave a review with your biggest question about fixing FAP. Your voice helps push the right reforms forward.Resources & Links: •

Send us a textWhat does leadership look like when control disappears? We sit down with Jeff Moss—Bronze Star Army aviator, bestselling author of My Leading Edge, Pfizer veteran, and Inc. 5000 franchise owner—to trace a life built on moral courage, mentorship, and service that lasts. From piloting AH-1 Cobras in Desert Storm to refusing to field unsafe aircraft under pressure, Jeff explains how clear standards and documented truth protect people and missions. Then we pivot from the flight line to the family room: his daughter Mallory's intractable epilepsy, two brain surgeries, and the night a hospital chaplain asked the question that reframed Jeff's faith. If you've ever wondered how to carry purpose through a season that feels like autorotation, this story will meet you where you are.We also get practical about the civilian runway—19 years inside big pharma, what most people miss about drug access, and why pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) complicate care with needless switches. Jeff opens the books on small business realities: lawfare, soaring insurance premiums, and the discipline it takes to build a values‑driven moving and junk removal company that still invests in people. Along the way, we talk tech and trust (autopilot doesn't replace a pilot, it demands one), media skepticism, and what it means to judge less by first impressions and more by character.Threading through it all is a simple flight plan: pre‑flight your life with mentors and values, commit on takeoff, build systems for normal flight, stay calm in autorotation, and debrief for legacy. If you care about leadership, faith, veteran transition, small business, healthcare access, or just becoming the kind of person others can trust when the air gets thin, this conversation belongs in your queue. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a lift, and leave a review to help others find the show. What part of Jeff's story challenged you most?

Send us a textWhat do you do when the institution you served closes ranks—and you're left to fight alone? We sit down with Marine veteran and former Nevada National Guard member Andy Lindstrom to unpack a hard, complicated story: years of reporting alleged misconduct, a firing justified as “not a good fit,” and a hearing that arrived nearly three years late. From claims of fraternization and sexual harassment to allegations of wage suppression and payroll fraud on the state side, Andy walks through the paper trail, the “inquiry” that wasn't called an investigation, and why he believes the system is designed to delay until witnesses disappear and the public moves on.The conversation gets specific. Andy alleges unlawful CJIS access, the wiping of his personal device after termination, and coordinated efforts to block subpoenas and keep key witnesses off the stand. He explains why he chose not to testify in a forum he believed was structurally biased and how the decision letter praised his presentation while ruling that state misconduct wasn't proven—effectively sidelining the payroll issues he raised. We also explore the FOIA battles, the IG pathways that went quiet, and the venue fight for an impartial court, including questions of recusal and the optics of former military attorneys presiding over Guard-adjacent matters.This episode is about more than one case. It's about how self-policing fails without independent oversight, how selective enforcement corrodes trust, and how retaliation—legal, professional, and social—chills reporting. You'll hear the human cost too: a father determined to show his daughter that truth is worth defending. If you care about whistleblower protections, military accountability, and how state-federal hybrids handle misconduct, this is a detailed, unflinching listen.If this resonates, share the episode, leave a review, and subscribe so more people can find stories that test systems—and push them to do better.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textJustice should not depend on who's most afraid of a headline. We sit down with nationally recognized trial lawyer and former Air Force JAG Davis Younts to examine where military justice goes off the rails—and how to bring it back on track. Davis shares the moment a 15‑minute acquittal at the Air Force Academy changed his career path from prosecution to defense, revealing what happens when allegations gain momentum and no one can find the off‑ramp.We dig into the uneasy balance between command authority and legal oversight, why the Office of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC) is slowing cases while pulling commanders away from discipline, and how political risk trains leaders to push weak cases to court rather than make hard calls. You'll hear specific, practical fixes: raising the evidentiary bar to open administrative investigations, creating an affirmative defense for leaders who are strictly enforcing published standards, and finally training investigating officers to recognize bias, weigh credibility, and document decisions with rigor.On the UCMJ side, Davis makes the case to restore Article 32 preliminary hearings as a real evidentiary gate that protects true victims from re‑traumatization and the innocent from trials doomed by thin evidence. We also spotlight the “titling” trap—when simply being investigated can plant a damaging FBI record without charges or notice—along with common‑sense safeguards like notification and appeals. The through line is standards: physical readiness, professional conduct online, and the moral clarity to seek peace through strength without rewarding victimhood or punishing honest leadership.If you care about due process, warrior ethos, and a military that can command trust at home and deterrence abroad, this conversation is for you. Listen, share with a teammate, and tell us where you think reform should start. And if this resonates, follow the show, leave a review, and pass it to someone who needs to hear it.

Send us a textWhat happens when a Marine JAG officer trades combat zones for campaign trails? Chris Burnett is finding out firsthand as he runs for Maryland's 6th congressional district.After 22 years in the Marine Corps navigating the complexities of international and operational law across multiple deployments to Iraq, Burnett now faces a different kind of challenge. His military career taught him to translate complex legal frameworks into practical guidance for commanders making high-stakes decisions. Now he's applying those same analytical skills to the regulations strangling opportunity in his community.The spark for his congressional run came from an unexpected place—his wife's attempt to open a small laundromat. As a military family of six settling in Maryland after his retirement, they discovered that Montgomery County's regulations and requirements made entrepreneurship virtually impossible. "There is just no opportunity for families, small businesses, and farmers to push back on what has become an overbearing county and state government," Burnett explains with the measured precision of someone who's spent decades evaluating risk and identifying solutions.His campaign strategy mirrors his military approach—systematic, phased, and mission-focused. From securing seed money to building name recognition in a community where he's relatively new, Burnett embraces the challenge with the same attitude that drew him to the Marines: "It's the hardest thing you can do." He's translating military concepts like accountability and transparency into a political context, explaining to voters why these principles matter for effective governance.For veterans considering public service after military life, Burnett's journey offers valuable insights on leveraging military experience in a political landscape. Despite the challenges—limited community connections, financial constraints, and explaining military expertise to civilian audiences—veterans bring unique problem-solving abilities and leadership experience that can restore trust in government.Want to learn more about bringing common-sense leadership to complex problems? Visit burnettforcongress.com to connect directly with Chris about his campaign, military experience, or the transition to civilian serviSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

When a nation asks its warriors to defend freedom and uphold justice abroad, shouldn't those same warriors expect justice at home? This powerful episode unravels the harrowing journey of Keith Barry, a decorated Navy SEAL whose 25-year military career crumbled under the weight of a false accusation and a system corrupted by political pressure.Keith opens up about his transition from elite special operator to facing unimaginable accusations without evidence. His conviction—secured without NCIS testimony and based solely on an accuser's statements—exposes critical flaws in our military justice system. The raw emotion of his 30-month confinement, where he refused to falsely admit guilt even when threatened with solitary confinement, reveals both the personal cost and the remarkable resilience of someone fighting for truth.What makes this story truly extraordinary is the unprecedented intervention that saved him. A whistleblower's courage combined with a retired admiral's confession of yielding to unlawful command influence ultimately led to Keith's exoneration. Yet even after the Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces overturned his conviction and dismissed the case with prejudice in 2018, the Navy has failed to fully honor the court's order to restore his rights and privileges.Joining Keith are two remarkable witnesses to his ordeal: Jennifer Ballard, former commanding officer of the Naval Consolidated Brig where Keith was confined, and Rodney Johnson, who worked with prisoners during Keith's incarceration. Their perspectives offer a rare inside look at how those within the system recognized the injustice unfolding before them.This isn't just one man's fight for justice—it's a window into how our military handles due process when political agendas and command pressure collide with constitutional rights. Whether you're active military, a veteran, or a citizen concerned about justice, this conversation challenges us to examine how we protect both victims of sexual assault and the falsely accused while preserving the integrity of the system designed to serve them both.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

The aftermath of national tragedy provides a somber backdrop as Navy SEAL veteran Bill Brown joins us to discuss his fight for veteran equality – a battle that extends from courtrooms to state legislatures and strikes at the heart of how America treats those who served.Bill's journey began at prestigious law firm McCarter & English, where his outspoken conservative views and veteran advocacy allegedly made him a target. While parts of his discrimination lawsuit continue moving forward under federal protections, a New Jersey judge delivered a critical message: comprehensive workplace protection for veterans requires legislative action.This revelation sparked Bill's current mission – amending New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination to include veterans as a protected class. The irony isn't lost on him: "They have these protected classes... based on haircuts. You won't give men and women who serve this country those same rights?" His frustration deepened when two promising bills stalled despite clearing committee approval.The contrast is stark. While state laws shield numerous groups from workplace discrimination, veterans – who write "a blank check to put everything on the line" – lack comparable safeguards. This gap proves particularly harmful as veterans already face unique challenges reintegrating into civilian life, from rebuilding professional networks to combating stereotypes about their service.Our conversation shifts to the New York City Navy SEAL Swim, now in its seventh year, which exemplifies how veterans continue serving long after removing the uniform. The event honors fallen teammates and 9/11 victims while supporting the Navy SEAL Foundation. It brings together diverse communities – SEALs, first responders, survivors, and supporters – in a powerful demonstration of unity.As we reflect on tragedy and resilience on this September 11th, Bill's advocacy reminds us that supporting veterans means more than symbolic gestures – it requires ensuring they receive the same protections afforded to other Americans. Join us as we explore discrimination law, patriotic service, and one SEAL's refusal to stand down when fighting for his brothers and sisters in arms.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

A life's trajectory derailed by a single night, a textbook case of injustice unfolding at one of America's most prestigious military academies. This urgent special episode of Stories of Service brings to light the troubling case of Joseph Fernau, a wrestler and former Air Force Academy cadet fighting to save his military career and avoid crushing debt after being falsely accused of sexual assault.When a devastating ankle injury sidelined Fernau from his beloved wrestling team, he made a mistake while heavily medicated - fraternizing with a freshman cadet. What followed defies belief: months later, after he began dating someone new, came an accusation of sexual assault that threatened everything he'd worked for. Despite text messages clearly showing consent before and satisfaction after their encounter, and despite OSI investigators finding the assault allegation unfounded, Fernau now faces disenrollment and $240,000 in debt while his accuser transferred to Stanford without consequences.The episode reveals disturbing inconsistencies in how military discipline is administered, with numerous examples of cadets committing similar or worse violations receiving far lighter punishments. Captain Adam DeRito, himself a veteran of a 15-year battle with the Academy over his own case, provides crucial context about potential bias and command influence affecting the proceedings. The conversation raises profound questions about who receives second chances in our military, and whether factors like identity politics might be corrupting the process of justice.Whether you're connected to military service or simply care about fairness in our institutions, this case demands attention. As Fernau's appeal reaches the Secretary of the Air Force, the fundamental question remains: Should one mistake, immediately self-reported and followed by exemplary conduct, end a promising military career? Listen now and decide for yourself.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

A decorated Navy corpsman's career derails when military justice turns against him. Eric Gilmette served 21 honorable years, deploying as a medic with Marine infantry and special operations forces, only to find himself embroiled in a four-year legal nightmare stemming from a New Year's Eve incident in Iraq.After an altercation at a bar in Erbil left a civilian contractor unconscious, Gilmette's medical training kicked in. He monitored the man throughout the night, performing neurological checks and positioning him to maintain his airway. Despite these efforts, tragedy struck when the contractor stopped breathing the next morning and later died.Rather than treating this as the accident autopsy evidence later confirmed it to be, military authorities charged Gilmette and two Marine Raiders with homicide. What followed exposed shocking flaws in the military justice system, particularly when a senior JAG officer made threatening comments to Gilmette's defense team, creating an untenable conflict of interest.The case became a fight not just about what happened that night in Iraq, but about fundamental fairness in military courts. COVID delays stretched the ordeal to four years while Gilmette remained in limbo, unable to practice his medical skills or advance his career. The military's highest court eventually dismissed all charges, recognizing the violation of due process.Gilmette's story reveals the personal toll when systems designed to protect service members fail them instead. Now retired in Michigan, he's pursuing his master's degree and speaking out about needed reforms. His journey reminds us how quickly lives can change and the courage required to stand firm when facing injustice from the very institution you've devoted your life to serving.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

The most meaningful connections in military service often come from those who guide us through our most challenging moments. Ron Dean represents this kind of transformative mentorship—a Vietnam-era Navy veteran whose expertise in aircraft electrical systems made him legendary among maintainers across four decades of service.Born to a World War II B-25 radio gunner, Ron joined the Navy in 1965 under the draft, deliberately choosing a different path than his Air Force father. As an Aviation Electrician's Mate, he quickly distinguished himself through exceptional troubleshooting abilities and a practical approach to maintenance that prioritized aircraft readiness over procedural orthodoxy. "I enjoyed fixing aircraft. I enjoyed making the maintenance chiefs happy," Ron explains, describing how he would take technicians directly to the flight deck to repair planes before returning to consult the manuals—reversing the traditional approach and keeping crucial combat aircraft flying during wartime operations.Ron's impact extended far beyond technical innovation. During a particularly challenging 2003 deployment to Iraq, he specifically requested Theresa Carpenter—then a young aviation electrician struggling with workplace tensions—as his troubleshooting partner. This professional pairing evolved into a decades-long friendship that survived career transitions, including Theresa's commissioning as an officer and Ron's move to civilian technical representative roles with Lockheed. Their paths continued to cross at significant life moments, from commissioning ceremonies to retirement celebrations, demonstrating how military connections often become life's most enduring relationships.From Vietnam-era deployments to supporting the historic moment when President Bush landed on the USS Abraham Lincoln, Ron's career spans significant chapters in American military history. Now enjoying retirement in Nevada, he remains engaged through political activism, community service, and even competitive bowling—continuing his lifelong pattern of service in new forms. Listen to this heartfelt conversation between mentor and mentee as they reflect on shared experiences, technical challenges overcome, and the lasting impact of showing up for others when it matters most.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when a sailor takes his leadership philosophy beyond the quarterdeck and into the podcast studio? Command Master Chief Damo McCullough's story illuminates how authentic conversations can transform military culture.From his Philadelphia roots to becoming a respected Navy leader, Damo shares the unfiltered journey that led him to create a podcast platform now boasting over 550,000 YouTube views and 100,000 downloads. His approach—speaking the "quiet parts out loud"—has created a unique space where sailors and leadership alike can engage in honest dialogue about military life, leadership challenges, and cultural issues that often remain unaddressed in formal settings.Damo's early career experiences with exceptional leaders who valued open communication shaped his philosophy that every sailor deserves a voice. When confronted with communication barriers between leadership and junior sailors around sensitive issues, he didn't just identify the problem—he created a solution through podcasting that has evolved into a thriving community over five years.The conversation explores how maintaining authenticity while advancing through the ranks presents both challenges and opportunities. As Damo notes, his podcast serves as an "integrity test," ensuring he embodies the leadership principles he advocates. What began as a way to help junior sailors see chiefs as relatable humans has expanded to influence leadership across the Navy, proving that speaking honestly doesn't hinder professional growth when done respectfully.For today's military members navigating service life, Damo's journey offers a compelling blueprint—demonstrating how traditional leadership values can adapt to connect with a new generation through digital platforms while preserving what matters most: mentorship, guidance, and mutual respect.Follow PTSF podcast - https://linktr.ee/PtsfpodcastSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when a decorated Army officer discovers her family is being poisoned by contaminated water on a military base – and then faces retaliation for speaking out? Major Mandy Feindt takes us inside one of the largest toxic exposure cases in U.S. military history, revealing how the Red Hill fuel facility in Hawaii contaminated drinking water for over 93,000 military and civilian families.With raw honesty, Mandy shares the devastating health impacts her family experienced – from her 13-month-old son developing mysterious rashes and respiratory issues to her own unexplained symptoms that left doctors puzzled. When military leadership insisted the water was safe despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, Mandy made the courageous decision to become a whistleblower, risking her nearly 20-year military career and upcoming promotion to lieutenant colonel.The institutional betrayal she experienced was profound. Overnight, her standing in her unit plummeted. Her evaluation reports were downgraded. But instead of staying silent, she filed a Department of Defense Inspector General complaint that was ultimately substantiated after a three-and-a-half-year investigation – a remarkable outcome in a system where less than 2% of such complaints favor service members.Beyond her personal vindication, Mandy's advocacy has driven meaningful change. She spearheaded a landmark federal lawsuit that held the Navy legally responsible for the contamination, helped secure a National Academy study on health impacts, and established a registry for affected families. Now, she's working on transparency legislation to ensure future military families aren't kept in the dark about environmental hazards.Perhaps most powerfully, Mandy opens up about her journey through PTSD, moral injury, and finding healing through specialized trauma programs and adaptive sports – ultimately becoming a 10-time medalist at the DoD Warrior Games. Her story illuminates not just the fight for justice, but the profound resilience required to transform betrayal into purpose.Listen now to this essential conversation about courage, accountability, and what happens when duty calls you to fight the very institution you've pledged to serve.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

When you're a young service member preparing for your first PCS, finding honest information about where you'll live and eat can be nearly impossible. Military barracks and dining facilities remain one of the most significant blind spots in our support system for junior enlisted personnel.Rob Evans, an Army veteran and software developer, experienced this firsthand during his 12 years of service. After transitioning to civilian life, he noticed something critical was missing: a platform where service members could openly discuss the conditions of their living quarters and dining facilities. This realization, coupled with a 2023 Government Accountability Office report highlighting widespread problems in military housing, sparked the creation of Hots and Cots – an app that's transforming how we address quality of life issues for our troops.During our conversation, Rob shares powerful stories of service members living with mold-covered ceilings, broken HVAC systems, and unreliable dining options who found their voices through his platform. The app's anonymity feature has proven crucial, allowing personnel to document conditions without fear of retaliation. What began as a simple idea has now collected over a thousand reviews and caught the attention of military leadership at the highest levels – including the Secretary of the Army.Perhaps most compelling is how Hots and Cots creates accountability where traditional systems have failed. Rob describes instances where installation commanders reached out directly after seeing negative reviews, resulting in immediate fixes to problems that had lingered for months. His recent addition of a leadership dashboard allows vetted military leaders to engage with reviews and address concerns while maintaining user anonymity.As someone who's witnessed the transformative power of good leadership and proper resources, Rob's mission extends beyond building an app – he's building a bridge between those who serve and those who lead them. His work reminds us that taking care of our service members isn't just about equipment and training but ensuring they have decent places to live and nutritious food to eat.Ready to see what's happening at military installations nationwide or share your own experience? Download Hots and Cots today and join the movement to improve quality of life for those who serve our country.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when you refuse to let the world put you in a box? Marine Corps officer Riley Compton reveals the extraordinary journey that unfolded when she decided to pursue every passion without limitation.Riley's story begins in the Midwest, where she never saw women serving in the military while growing up. After earning a Division I softball scholarship, a chance encounter with a Marine recruiter opened doors she never knew existed. What followed was a remarkable balancing act—commissioning as a Marine officer while simultaneously pursuing a spot on Team USA's bobsled team.For five years, Riley competed internationally in bobsled, achieving a world ranking of 14th and winning a North American Cup gold medal, all while maintaining her active duty status. When a deployment opportunity to Baghdad arose, she volunteered for a billet typically filled by officers ranking above her. Upon returning from deployment, she went straight from the combat zone to competing on the world's fastest bobsled track in Canada—a testament to her unwavering dedication and resilience.The conversation explores Riley's difficult decision to step away from bobsledding to focus on her Marine Corps career, her upcoming marriage to a Royal Marine, and her bestselling children's book "If You Can Dream It, Be It." With refreshing candor, she shares the behind-the-scenes struggles of publishing, including countless rejections, while maintaining her "never quit" mentality.What makes Riley's perspective particularly valuable is her humility. Despite her achievements across multiple domains, she emphasizes that anyone can follow a similar path with enough courage and persistence. As she puts it, "Your job, the things you do, is what you do. It's not who you are." Her definition of wealth—measured in relationships, experiences, and discipline rather than financial gain—offers a refreshing counterpoint to conventional success metrics.Ready to break out of your own self-imposed limitations? Listen now to discover how one Marine officer's story might just inspire you to dream bigger than you ever thought possible.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Military psychiatrist Dr. Robert Moretta exposes the hidden flaws in our armed forces' mental healthcare system—where administrative convenience often trumps genuine healing. From the overuse of adjustment and personality disorder diagnoses to avoid benefits, to a culture that discourages sailors from seeking help, Dr. Moretta reveals how these practices harm trust and recovery.He shares firsthand accounts of blurred confidentiality, where providers are told to avoid diagnosing PTSD to keep paperwork simple, and how fragmented records across clinics and agencies leave struggling service members to piece together their own care.Drawing on experience across multiple branches and the VA, Dr. Moretta outlines how standardizing policies could ensure consistent, recovery-focused care for all who serve.Listen now, then explore his book Reflections of a Military Psychiatrist for deeper insights and solutions.Whether you're a veteran, military family member, or someone interested in the realities of military medicine, this conversation offers an unfiltered and compassionate look at the challenges—and hope—within the field of military psychiatry.Buy Robert's book - https://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Mi...Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when a warrior who's dedicated to never leaving anyone behind is forced to witness a fellow airman lost at sea? Aaron Love's journey from elite Air Force Pararescueman to outspoken veterans advocate reveals the profound cost of service and the power of principle-based leadership.In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Aaron takes us through his 22-year military career, from his post-9/11 enlistment to becoming part of the elite Air Force special warfare community. With remarkable candor, he shares the traumatic events that ultimately led to his medical retirement – including the heartbreaking story of combat controller Cole Condiff's training accident and how military process prevented Aaron's qualified team from attempting recovery."I'll be damned if I wasn't there fighting for him until the very end," Aaron reflects, revealing the deep commitment to mission that defined his service and continues to guide his civilian life. This powerful statement encapsulates the core ethos that drove him through five combat deployments and now fuels his work mentoring the next generation through podcasting and in-person training events.The discussion ventures beyond personal storytelling as we explore the tensions between military hierarchy and operational effectiveness, the evolution of accountability in the digital age, and the crucial need for transparent leadership. Aaron's perspective on military reform balances patriotic reverence with unflinching criticism – a refreshing approach in today's polarized landscape.Whether you're a veteran seeking connection, an active duty member navigating today's military culture, or simply someone curious about the human experience behind the uniform, this conversation offers rare insight into the mind of someone who's lived at the tip of the spear. Connect with Aaron through his "One's Ready" podcast or at upcoming events like MCON in Las Vegas to continue the conversation about service, leadership, and active citizenship.Connect with Aaron - https://linktr.ee/aaron_loves_america?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=6cff43a8-e493-4e6a-a02f-4a68b8d162f7Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when a system designed to protect our warriors becomes their greatest threat? In this powerful conversation, retired Air Force Colonel Doug James exposes the devastating impact of false allegations in military justice—a crisis he knows firsthand.As the former President of Save Our Heroes, Colonel James witnessed hundreds of cases where innocent service members faced career destruction from unsubstantiated claims. The patterns were disturbingly consistent: allegations emerging during contentious divorces, after relationship breakups, or when service members sought career advantages. Even more alarming was how the military justice system seemed designed to prevent fair outcomes."These general officers are more scared of Congress than they are the bad guys," James reveals, explaining how political pressure created a climate where securing convictions became more important than finding truth. He points to the case of Lieutenant General Susan Helms, whose distinguished career ended after she determined there was insufficient evidence in a sexual assault case—a decision that cost her a fourth star and sent shockwaves through military leadership.The structural problems are profound. Military courts require only a 75% majority to convict, defense counsel are typically inexperienced compared to prosecution teams, and cases drag on for years before collapsing over basic evidentiary issues. Even after exoneration, many service members face the permanent stigma of "titling," affecting everything from employment opportunities to basic rights.Colonel James doesn't just identify problems—he offers solutions. Requiring unanimous verdicts, properly resourcing defense counsel, and creating conviction integrity units would restore balance to a system currently failing those it should protect. Until then, his advice to accused service members is clear: "Get a civilian attorney and fight like hell."This isn't just about individual injustice—it's a national security threat. Talented warriors are being lost to service, others avoid command positions entirely, and the system that should uphold our highest values is undermining trust in the very institutions responsible for our defense. Listen now to understand why military justice reform must become a priority for anyone who values both justice and military readiness.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

The military justice system is failing our warriors through a perfect storm of bias, incompetence, and political pressure. In this eye-opening episode, Mike Konzachi—Army veteran, retired homicide detective, and private investigator—pulls back the curtain on how false allegations destroy military careers.After nearly three decades in specialized law enforcement units and investigating over 500 military cases, Konzachi delivers a scathing assessment of military investigative practices. "The objective is not to learn the truth of what occurred, but to gather sufficient evidence that will sustain a conviction," he reveals, highlighting a fundamental flaw in the approach to military justice.We explore the shocking realities behind these cases: investigators who fail to collect basic evidence like cell phone records, prosecutors who suppress exculpatory evidence, and commanding officers whose careers are threatened if they don't push cases to court-martial regardless of merit. Konzachi walks us through how this broken system emerged, from politically-motivated survey manipulation to congressional pressures that prioritize conviction rates over truth and fairness.What makes this conversation particularly powerful is that it comes from someone who loves the military. Konzachi shares fond memories of his service with the elite 82nd Airborne Division, making it clear his criticism stems from a desire to protect the institution, not tear it down. His advocacy has resulted in over 100 formal complaints to oversight bodies including the Department of Justice, FBI, and United Nations.For anyone concerned about justice, due process, or the wellbeing of our service members, this episode provides crucial context for understanding one of the most significant issues facing our military today. Subscribe now and share this episode to help bring attention to these warriors who need our support.

In this powerful episode, Frank Sunius takes us on a remarkable journey—from a difficult childhood in Amsterdam to wrongful imprisonment in Australia, and ultimately, to his rebirth as an inspirational speaker and author.Born to a mother who survived Japanese concentration camps and a father who valued success over connection, Frank grew up feeling unseen. To cope, he created what he calls his “Shadowland”—an imaginary refuge where he felt safe and valued.As a highly sensitive child in a world that rewarded toughness, Frank found his footing in sports. He became a skilled basketball player and tennis coach, known for his ability to unlock potential in others. But while he gave endlessly to those around him, his own needs went unmet. Burnout hit hard while working on a methadone research project in Amsterdam, leading to a severe mental health crisis.Prescribed powerful medications that caused dissociation, Frank was vulnerable. A well-meaning suggestion to take a “timeout” in Australia became a nightmare when he landed in Sydney and discovered his luggage had been tampered with—filled with drugs. Despite reporting the damaged suitcase himself, Frank was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to 11 years in prison.What followed were four harrowing years behind bars—but paradoxically, it was in prison where Frank began to heal. Writing became his lifeline. His words helped medical professionals realize he had been misdiagnosed and overmedicated.When he was unexpectedly released, he faced the world homeless, penniless, and disoriented. But a chance meeting with a former tennis student led to a coaching opportunity that sustained him for 17 years. Encouraged by mentors like Nick Vujicic, Frank turned his pain into purpose—sharing his story in his book Trapped in a Dream and inspiring audiences as a motivational speaker.Frank's message is clear and unforgettable: “Doubt less, fail more, dream bigger, and find your support team.” His story is a powerful reminder that our darkest chapters can lead to our most meaningful purpose.

In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, decorated veteran and military justice reform advocate Adam DeRito takes us through his remarkable journey from Air Force Academy cadet to the frontlines of a battle few civilians understand: the fight against military retaliation.Adam's story begins with his post-9/11 commitment to service, arriving at the Air Force Academy with real-world experience as a firefighter and EMT. After becoming an OSI confidential informant reporting cadet misconduct, his life took a devastating turn when he experienced sexual assault off-campus—and faced dismissal rather than support from his command. What followed was a systematic campaign of retaliation culminating in falsified medical records dated after he'd already left the Academy, an illegal tactic designed to permanently block his military career.Despite these obstacles, Adam persevered through multiple administrative appeals, federal court battles, and political advocacy while continuing to serve in the National Guard and Army Reserves. His experiences led him to draft the Military Mental Health Protection and Justice Act (known informally as the "DeRito Act"), which would prevent commanders from weaponizing command-directed evaluations against service members who report misconduct.The conversation exposes critical gaps in military accountability where commanders operate with minimal oversight, creating a chilling effect that damages readiness and unit cohesion. Adam's documentation of his case—including medical records falsified by someone without proper licensing—reveals how military mental health evaluations can be weaponized to silence whistleblowers and assault survivors.For anyone concerned about veterans' rights, military readiness, or constitutional protections, this episode provides rare insight into how our military justice system actually operates and why reforms like the DeRito Act are desperately needed. Visit adamdorito.com to review the evidence and join the fight for accountability that affects thousands of service members.

The remarkable journey from combat Infantry officer to veteran advocate unfolds as Troy Carrico shares his extraordinary path of service beyond the battlefield. A highly decorated, service-connected disabled Army veteran, Troy reveals how childhood dreams of becoming a fighter pilot evolved into a distinguished military career after learning his eyes weren't suitable for flight.Troy's storytelling captivates as he recounts his transition from Infantry operations to tactical human intelligence following 9/11. With refreshing candor, he describes his work with the elite Iraqi Survey Group—traveling on blackout flights with "suitcases full of money" while searching for weapons of mass destruction. These operations, now declassified, provide rare insight into the complex realities of intelligence gathering during America's most challenging military engagements.The conversation shifts to Troy's innovative leadership at the US Army Corps of Engineers, where he established an intelligence fusion center that revolutionized collaboration between engineers and intelligence agencies. His matter-of-fact descriptions of creating unprecedented partnerships between traditionally siloed organizations demonstrate the practical impact of service-minded leadership. Perhaps most surprising are his revelations about Fort Knox, where he discloses that more foreign gold is stored than domestic—a testament to international trust in American security.Now focused on veteran advocacy through Alabama Veteran Nation, Troy is mobilizing the state's 444,000 veterans into a unified political voice. His investigation into misused suicide prevention funds highlights the critical need for veteran leadership in policy decisions. Troy's straightforward leadership philosophy—"If we have a dog food factory and make dog food, we better be feeding it to our dogs"—encapsulates his commitment to authentic service and accountability.Follow Troy's continuing mission through his political commentary at 1819 News Alabama, and join the movement to ensure veteran voices shape the policies affecting their lives. His story reminds us that true service never stops when the uniform comes off—it simply finds new battlefields.*Sorry we got cut off at the end, but we appreciate all of you who watched or are watching the replay!*Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

What happens when political pressure infiltrates military justice? Navy veteran Darin Lopez and retired Navy SEAL Keith Barry pull back the curtain on one of the most troubling chapters in modern military history - a period when false accusations could destroy careers without meaningful due process.Lopez, who held high-level intelligence positions requiring FBI clearance, found himself convicted of sexual assault despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence. The shocking details of his case reveal a system where truth became irrelevant - military prosecutors were explicitly instructed to pursue charges "even if the elements cannot be proven" merely to demonstrate being "tough on sexual assault." Barry, whose conviction was eventually overturned, shares how a Rear Admiral later admitted in writing that he believed in Barry's innocence but approved the conviction anyway due to political pressure.Together, these veterans expose the devastating human cost of unlawful command influence (UCI) that corrupted military courts between 2012-2014. Their stories highlight a disturbing reality: in a rush to correct legitimate problems with sexual assault reporting, the military created a different injustice that continues to affect thousands of service members today.This powerful conversation isn't about diminishing genuine sexual assault cases - both men emphasize their support for legitimate victims. Rather, it illuminates how abandoning due process harms everyone. The military's 2023 creation of an Independent Office to reduce UCI represents a tacit admission of past wrongs, but does nothing for those still carrying convictions or serving sentences.For anyone concerned about military justice, veteran welfare, or the intersection of politics and law, this episode provides rare insight into a largely hidden injustice. If you've faced false accusations or know someone who has, you'll find valuable resources and a supportive community ready to help.How the Largest Case of UCI in Military History Unfolded:  https://tinyurl.com/bdf63v5dBuy Darin's book: https://a.co/d/062h77N False Accusations: https://www.theresatapestries.com/false-accusationsSupport the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

“It doesn't matter, you can't sue anyway.”From Battlefield to Birth Trauma: Lauren Palladini's Fight for Justice in Military MedicineThis week's guest, Lauren Palladini, is a former paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division whose life took a harrowing turn—not on the battlefield, but in a military hospital. At just 22 years old, Lauren experienced a catastrophic case of military medical malpractice during childbirth at Womack Army Medical Center. A lacerated uterine artery was left undiagnosed and concealed, leading to weeks of life-threatening hemorrhaging, multiple emergency surgeries, and a permanent hysterectomy.But Lauren refused to stay silent.In response, she co-founded Coalition of Heroes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to confronting medical malpractice in the military. The Coalition works to raise awareness, educate the public, and advocate for the voices of those harmed by preventable errors within the military healthcare system.In this powerful episode, Lauren shares her story of trauma, resilience, and advocacy—and why she's determined to spark lasting reform.In This Episode, You'll Learn: • What happened during Lauren's traumatic childbirth experience & the chilling words of those who were charged with her care • The systemic issues behind military medical malpractice • Why accountability is so difficult to achieve in the military healthcare system • How Coalition of Heroes is helping victims and driving change • What civilians and veterans alike need to know about this often-hidden issueMentioned in This Episode: • Womack Army Medical Center • Coalition of Heroes (cofounder) • Military medical justice and reform effortsConnect with Lauren Palladini & Coalition of Heroes:Website: https://www.coalitionofheroes.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coalition_of_heroes?igsh=azVtNHVsOTZxOTY=Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CSWVDpkpC/?mibextid=wwXIfrSubscribe & Review:If Lauren's story moved you, please share this episode, leave a review, and help us spread the word. Every voice raised brings us one step closer to justice.Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

In this powerful episode of Stories of Service, host Theresa Carpenter sits down with Dr. Michael Hackney—Army veteran, business leader, coach, and author—to explore the dynamic intersections of military service, organizational leadership, and personal reinvention.Dr. Hackney shares his journey from commanding infantry units in Germany and supporting operations during the Gulf War to leading corporate turnarounds at Fortune 500 companies like PepsiCo, Sara Lee, and ConAgra. With a doctorate in organizational psychology from USC, he brings a unique perspective on what it takes to sustain meaningful change in both military and business environments.Now the founder of ShaydeTree Enterprises in Nashville, Mike coaches executives and advises organizations on cultivating motivated, high-performing cultures. He also speaks candidly about his role as a veteran advocate, pilot, and writer—showing how a life of service can evolve in powerful and unexpected ways.

In this episode, Stories of Service host Theresa Carpenter talks with Navy SEAL veteran Bill Brown and his attorney Chris D'Alessandro about Bill's firing from McCarter & English. What began with a LinkedIn post reveals a deeper story of alleged discrimination and retaliation tied to Bill's military service and beliefs.Chris breaks down the legal side as Bill shares what it's like to challenge a system that preaches diversity but often excludes veterans.

Send us a text

Send us a textTuesday show:

Send us a textIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Paul Pearson, a seasoned IT professional and mission-driven leader whose journey took a life-altering turn after he unintentionally blew the whistle while contracting for the Department of Defense. What followed was a deep dive into ethical leadership, digital justice, and community empowerment.Paul brings over 15 years of IT experience, including a decade of service in the U.S. Air Force with expertise in digital forensics and cyberspace operations. He now leads Running Name LLC, a veteran-owned business offering cybersecurity, managed IT, and digital strategy to nonprofits and small businesses.But Paul's work doesn't stop there. He also serves as: • President of Eduruna • Vice President of Whistleblowers of America • Director of Information at Blacks in CyberHis 2019 whistleblower experience involving corporate espionage retaliation now fuels his advocacy for safer, more inclusive, and tech-enabled workplaces.Topics Covered: • Paul's transition from military to IT entrepreneur • Blowing the whistle: what really happened and what came next • The importance of ethical leadership in tech • Building secure, scalable solutions for nonprofits and small businesses • The mission of Eduruna and empowering through education • Why community matters in cybersecurity • Lessons in resilience, retaliation, and redemptionConnect with Paul: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpearson85?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app • Running Name LLC: https://www.runningname.com/ • Eduruna.org: https://www.eduruna.org/Support the showVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textBack by popular demand, Neil Jurd OBE returns to Stories of Service to explore leadership, service, and the changing needs of those who lead—both in and out of uniform.A former British Army officer and Sandhurst instructor, Neil is the founder of Leader Connect and author of The Leadership Book, aiming to make leadership accessible, values-led, and impactful across all sectorsIn this episode, Neil dives deeper into: •

Send us a textIn today's episode, we sit down with Chris Greco — a dedicated father, husband, and executive performance coach whose journey is as inspiring as it is instructive. Known for his unwavering faith, grit, and perseverance, Chris brings a boundless energy and a core-values approach that has helped transform both people and organizations.Chris shares his experiences leading high-stakes turnarounds, including his role as CEO in 2023, where he revitalized a struggling retail tech company — saving jobs and delivering investor returns in under four years. Praised by a former food industry CEO as someone who “took a company from nothing and turned it into an industry-wide success,” Chris's story is one of resilience and results.We also dive into earlier milestones, like the $1.3 billion exit he led as the sales and marketing head in 2016 at a mobile tech provider, and his pivotal 2008 go-to-market strategy during Apple's landmark launch era, which brought in 1,000+ new subscribers daily. With leadership experience at AT&T, Location Labs, Symantec, and Avast, Chris offers powerful insights into what it really takes to grow businesses in competitive markets.Through it all, Chris remains grounded in his belief that trust, people, and purpose-driven leadership are the pillars of any thriving team — whether in the boardroom or at home.What You'll Learn: • How faith and values fuel Chris's leadership style • Lessons from turning around a company during tough times • Strategies for scaling growth in tech and telecom industries • Why trust and vision are non-negotiables in high-performing teams • The mindset shifts that separate good leaders from great He is also the author of 8 Steps to Overcoming Adversity, a Maxy Award Winner book that Admiral Bill Owens called “Faith-based advice underscored by a powerful story of suffering and perseverance.” Connect with Chris - https://www.grecospeaks.com/aboutVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textImagine dedicating 30 years to the Air Force, retiring with honors, and returning to serve again—only to be abruptly terminated without explanation. Publicly shamed, later vindicated, and still left in limbo more than a year later. This is the reality for today's guest: Doug “Cinco” DeMaio.Doug's story is not just about personal resilience—it's a stark indictment of a broken administrative system within the U.S. military. In this powerful episode, he shares his experience, exposes systemic failures, and explains why transparency and accountability are crucial for restoring trust in our armed forces.What You'll Hear: • The events leading to Doug's sudden dismissal • His experience navigating the military's opaque administrative system • The emotional and professional toll of being silenced and sidelined • Why systemic reform is urgently needed • How Doug continues to advocate for integrity and innovation in defenseAbout the Guest:Douglas D. DeMaio is CEO of All Domain Solutions LLC, consulting with the DoD, industry leaders, and academia on integrating AI into military operations. A retired Air Force and Alabama Air National Guard officer, Doug commanded at multiple levels, flew over 3,200 hours (including 500+ in combat), and helped shape strategy on space warfare, AI, and multi-domain operations. He holds advanced degrees from the Eisenhower School and SAMS and has authored influential work on defense innovation and strategy.

Send us a textIn this in-person episode of Stories of Service, Theresa Carpenter speaks with Christopher Lamy—veteran, dog trainer, and her SkillBridge provider—about his journey from Air Force K-9 handler to community advocate. Growing up as the oldest of seven, Chris developed leadership skills and a bond with animals early on. After 10 years in the military, including deployments with Navy SEAL Team 2, he pursued a law degree but ultimately returned to dog training after a mentor's passing. Now based in Long Beach, MS, he runs Canine Coaching with Chris, leads a nonprofit for shelter dogs, and co-hosts the Whiskey and Wolves podcast.  In this episode, you'll hear about: • Chris's early days as the “dog guy” in a big family • His intense military journey and work with elite teams in combat • The emotional and physical toll of service—and how he kept going • Why he walked away from a legal career to follow a different calling • How he's making a difference in the lives of dogs and veterans alike • His ongoing mission to serve through storytelling and canine advocacyFollow and Support Chris Lamy: • Canine Coaching with Chris - https://www.caninecoachingwithchris.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caninecoach... • Podcast: Whiskey and Wolves:    • Whiskey and Wolves Podcast 

Send us a textCan a Navy SEAL serve in our toughest military roles, launch multiple companies, speak hard truths, and still have the heart to lead a movement in wellness? Rob Sweetman is living proof.In this episode, I sit down with Rob — a former Navy SEAL turned sleep scientist and founder of 62Romeo and Sleep Genius — who's on a mission to radically improve how veterans, first responders, and high-performers sleep, recover, and live.After serving with SEAL Team Seven and navigating injuries including PTSD and TBI, Rob took a pivotal turn into sleep science following the tragic loss of a fellow SEAL. What he's built since then is not just science-backed — it's soul-driven. Rob now speaks globally, leads retreats at Happy Canyon Ranch, and team lead for the NYC Navy SEAL Swim as a voice for warrior advocacy and transformation.This is more than a conversation about performance — it's about resilience, purpose, and staying the course when others give up.We talk about: • Rob's SEAL background and personal story of transition • The silent epidemic of sleep dysfunction in military and high-stress careers • How sleep and mental health are deeply connected • Leading from the front in wellness advocacy • The mission behind Sleep Genius and 62Romeo • Why Rob believes healing is the new warfareRob Sweetman is a former Navy SEAL, sleep scientist, and the founder of 62Romeo and Sleep Genius. He combines elite training with scientific insight to help others optimize sleep, recovery, and performance. After losing a fellow SEAL to suicide, Rob dedicated his life to solving the hidden struggles that plague our warriors and leaders.

Send us a textIn this powerful episode, we follow Sgt. Andrew “Andy” Lindstrom — a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Nevada National Guardsman — as he takes on the military establishment in a courageous solo legal battle.After reporting military sexual trauma (MST) and financial misconduct within the Nevada National Guard, Lindstrom faced harsh retaliation and was removed from both his military and civilian roles. Refusing to back down, he chose to represent himself pro se, navigating a complex legal fight without an attorney.Key Topics:US Veteran turned whistleblower ⚠️ Reporting MST & financial abuses