The Freedom First Podcast

Tragedy to triumph! Episode 37 w/ Champion Barrel Racer @amberleysnyder —Amberley Snyder is a championship barrel racer. She also competed in pole bending and breakaway roping. In 2010, Snyder suffered a car crash that paralyzed her from the waist down. She adapted to the injury and kept competing. Amberley's father, Cory Snyder was a Major League Baseball player with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Indians, Giants, Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago White Sox. In 2019, Netflix released the film Walk Ride Rodeo, a biopic based on her life that has reached over 350 million wordwide. Amberley returned to the screen in 2020, this time inspiring characters in the Paramount Network show Yellowstone, Season 3 episode 10 “The World is Purple”.________FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform.  Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show

Described as one of the most influential female boxers of all time, helping legitimize women's participation in the sport, Christy Martin shocked the world by becoming a superstar after winning a blood-soaked undercard match at the Mike Tyson/Frank Bruno fight in 1996. Christy Martin was a trailblazer as the first great female boxing champ. But her life outside the ring may be even more inspirational. After her meteoric rise, Christy's had an incredible fight for survival both in and out of the ring as she battled substance abuse, domestic violence and a harrowing brush with death. We also see Christy's struggle with her sexual orientation and her journey of self-discovery. This is a story stranger than fiction, that must be seen to be believed.Christy became the first female boxer inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. In total, she has been inducted into six Halls of Fame, including the International Boxing Hall of Fame. She has appeared on “Leno”, “Letterman”, “Good Morning America,” the “Today” show, and others.Christy is the CEO of Christy Martin Promotions, a boxing promotion company, and is the founder of Christy's Champs, an organization that supports victims of domestic abuse. Following her retirement, Christy also worked as a substitute teacher and as a domestic violence victim's advocate. In 2017 she married former ring rival and world champion boxer Lisa Holewyne.________FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform.  Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show

Joe Roberts known as the "Skidrow CEO" is a Canadian motivational speaker, author, youth homelessness advocate and co-founder of The Push for Change Foundation. Roberts experienced drug addiction and chronic homelessness as a youth and entered drug treatment in 1991. Roberts worked in sales and web development before he became an inspirational keynote speaker. Roberts is the author of four books.What is most amazing about Joe is that in 1989 he was living on the streets of Vancouver as a homeless skid row addict. Through perseverance, determination and his resilient human spirit, Joe pulled himself out of the darkness and despair, to become a highly respected business and community leader of today.Today Joe Roberts (aka The Skidrow CEO) is an award-winning Inspirational Keynote Speaker armed with unwavering determination and 20+ years of speaking experience. His mission has been, is, and always will be to instigate a ripple effect of positive change everywhere he goes by reminding people of their unlimited potential.Since 1989, Joe has acquired two college diplomas, became the CEO of one of Vancouver's leading multimedia companies, walked across Canada and achieved more success than he could ever have imagined.  Joe has been recognized by MacLean's Magazine as one of “10 Canadians who make a difference,” won the BC Courage to Come Back Award, received The Ontario Premier's Award for Business, was given an Honorary Doctorate from Laurentian University and was recognized by the Senate of Canada with their Canada 150 Medal.Ultimately, Joe's deep resonating “WHY” is to empower people to step into a life of infinite possibility, to understand “there is truly more to each and every one of us than what we see”.________FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform.  Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Leslie Morgan Steiner is a domestic violence survivor, New York Times best-selling author ,columnist for The Washington Post, consultant and thought leader on women's leadership, work-life balance, inspirational parenting, overcoming adversity and surviving violence against women. Her corporate experience includes The Washington Post, Johnson & Johnson, Leo Burnett and Seventeen Magazine. In 2009 Her  memoir about surviving domestic violence, Crazy Love, was a New York Times bestseller, People Pick, Book of the Week for The Week magazine, and subject of the first TED Talk by a domestic violence survivor. She also speaks on work/family balance, domestic violence, leadership, parenting and more. You can follow Leslie on Facebook via Leslie Morgan Steiner, or via @lesliebooks on Instagram and Twitter, or visit her Amazon to purchase her books.Support the show

Episode 33 with writer and author of "Unveiling Alice" Mary Crocker (@marycrocker)—Mary Crocker has a zest for life that has led her to experiences filled with adventure, excitement, chaos and heartbreak. Her go getter spirit lights up the room, gets the job done, and produces results.As a sales training manager, her passions are centered around helping others reach their full potential. When she isn't helping colleagues crush sales quotas, you can find her running the streets, talking fashion with friends, traveling with family, or enjoying a spicy margarita.Her biggest inspirations are drawn from those who have remained resilient in the hardest of times and supported her every journey. She believes everyone should make the most of their story and that everyone has the power to create a magical ending.Book SummaryAlice has it all. The handsome fiancé, the successful job, and a beautiful wedding ahead. Then, life throws her a curveball. When her fiancé calls off their engagement merely days before their wedding, Alice finds herself single, lost, and unsure of what her future holds. She finds strength through running and decides to rewrite her new life in Nashville, but is it possible to outrun the past?Unveiling Alice is inspired by a true event in author Mary Crocker's life and is her opportunity to share her story and own her past and the broken road that led to beautiful new beginnings.Unveiling Alice reveals the inner strength that lives and breathes within everyone choosing to embrace life's challenges, control how we respond, and move forward. It explores the intersections of redemption, grief, and unconditional love. It acknowledges that our actions and decisions toward others can have lasting impacts. In the end, it illustrates the power of forgiveness, even when forgetting is impossible.Purchase the book here:https://www.amazon.com/product-reviews/1637308019/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_paging_btm_next_2?ie=UTF8&filterByStar=five_star&reviewerType=all_reviews&pageNumber=2#reviews-filter-barFollow Mary Crocker (@marycrocker)________FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform.  Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

EP 32 Now Available w/ former Navy Seal and founder of Sunga Life swimwear company Jeff Gum (@Jeffgum)—Jeff Gum is a Navy Seal and founder of Sunga Life Swimwear. He was a part of Seal Team 5 where he deployed to Fallujah Iraq, was selected for the Navy SEAL Breacher and Sniper Schools and worked with the Secret Service.In 2015, Jeff began his transition out of the Navy by participating in The Honor Foundation's 120 hours of Executive Education at UCSD Rady School of Management. The program inspired him to launch his own swimwear line partnering with 2-time ESPY award-winning adaptive athlete, Kyle Maynard, called Sunga Life.The company is focused on achieving double bottom line goals of purpose and profitability, where 10% of profits go to veteran charities — specifically those that benefit wounded and amputee Special Operations Forces. Jeff transitioned out of the Navy in June 2017, traveled the world for a year and received his masters degree from the UCLA Anderson School of Management with a focus on Entrepreneurship.FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform.  Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

A Doctor at War! @docwilkes1 —Our guest is a Medical Doctor and a California native. Dr. Donnelly Wilkes is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He obtained his bachelor's degree from the University of California, Irvine, and his medical degree from Tulane School of Medicine on a full Navy Scholarship. Following medical school, he was commissioned in the U.S. Navy, completed residency training in family medicine at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, and served seven years on active duty. He served two combat tours in Iraq in 2004 and 2008 and was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Valor for his actions in the battle of Fallujah in April of 2004. As the Senior Medical Officer at Port Hueneme Naval Clinic, where he was responsible for the medical oversight of active duty members, their families, and local Veterans. Upon completion of his Naval service, he was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant Commander and opened his own family medicine practice, Wilkes Family Medicine in August of 2009. Today he serves as the president and medical director of Summit Health Group in Thousand Oaks, California. He is a devoted husband, father, and Christian. “My faith and family are everything to me, and I have dedicated this practice to them.” He is the author of, Code Red Fallujah: A Doctor's Memoir at War, about his experience during the Battle of Fallujah.FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on SpotifyListen on any podcasting platform. The Freedom First Podcast | EP 31 . Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 030 w/ @kajlarsen & @seanbonnerusa—On this episode we are joined by the founders of @guild_financial , US Navy Seal Kaj Larsen and Navy Intelligence Officer Sean Bonner. Kaj Larsen is a US Navy Seal, award winning Journalist, Harvard Graduate and owner of a @crossfitsantamonica . Sean Bonner is a Navy Intelligence Officer and former financial professional with extensive experience in the financial industry. Their new company, Guild Financial is a trusted investment platform inspiring the military community to secure financial freedom through training and education. On this episode we talk about both mens childhood growing up, military experience, investing, experience in the financial world and their new financial company Guild Financial. FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on Spotify➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 029 w/ Coach Chris Likewise—On this episode we sit down with football Coach Chris likewise in the studio. Coach Likewise has over 25+ years of coaching experience with stops at the high school level and as an assistant coach at Fresno State under Jim Sweeney. On this episode Likewise talks about his coaching journey, old school stories from the past, the life of a coach, Jim Sweeney and much more. FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/freedomfirstusTIK TOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@freedomfirstamericaFACEBOOK | FacebookAPPLE PODCAST | Apple PodcastSPOTIFY | The Freedom First Podcast on Spotify➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 028 w/ Dennis Townsend —Dennis Townsend is an Architect and the District 5 Supervisor. On this episode we discuss his upcoming election, childhood growing up, leadership, service, faith, wrestling, forest management, water, architecture and much more. Townsend's District 5 includes Porterville, Springville, Terra Bella, Alpine, Ducor, Camp Nelson, California Hot Springs, Posey, Kennedy Meadows, Ponderosa, Sequoia Crest, and surrounding areas of southeast Tulare County. He was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2018. Supervisor Townsend is a licensed architect and owner of Townsend Architectural Group in Porterville. A graduate of Monache High School, Townsend was a standout wrestler who went on to wrestle at College of the Sequoias. Townsend earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Supervisor Townsend was employed by Wayne F. Harris and Associates, R.L. Schafer and Associates, and Hobbs Architectural Group before opening Townsend Architectural Group in 2001. Working and living in Porterville and Springville, Supervisor Townsend is involved in numerous community and volunteer organizations, including the Habitat for Humanity Building Hope in Porterville Board as well as the Man Alive planning board for the annual men's event. He is also a member of the Springville Chamber of Commerce and was honored by that organization as “Man of the Year” in 2009. Supervisor Townsend married his wife Cece in 1982. They were both born and raised in Porterville and currently reside in Springville.•••Facebook: @DennisTownsendWebsite: www.trusttownsend.comwww.townsendgroup.net••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 027 w/ @holliesmckay—Hollie McKay is an Australian born journalist who is a policy expert, correspondent, war crimes investigator, and best-selling author. She was an investigative and international affairs/war journalist for Fox News Digital for over fourteen years where she focused on warfare, terrorism, and crimes against humanity. in 2021 she founded international geopolitical risk and social responsibility firm McKay Global. Her latest book, Only Cry for the Living: Memos From Inside the ISIS Battlefield, is now available.Hollie has worked on the frontlines of several major war zones and covered humanitarian and diplomatic crises in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Turkey, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Burma, Russia, Africa, Latin America, and other areas.Her globally-spanned coverage, in the form of thousands of print articles and essays, has included exclusive and detailed interviews with numerous captured terrorists, as well as high-ranking government, military, and intelligence officials and leaders from all sides.She has spent considerable time embedded with US and foreign troops, conducted extensive interviews with survivors of torture, sex slavery and forced child jihadist training, refugees, and internally-displaced people to communicate the complexities of such catastrophes and war crimes on local populations.Hollie's columns have additionally been featured in the Wall Street Journal and her writings referenced in innumerable mainstream publications and academic journals. Additionally, McKay has reported on Clint Eastwood, Anthony Bourdain, and the Ferguson unrest of 2014 . she has won numerous foreign press and humanitarian awards. She is acclaimed by her peers as one of the most diligent reports in her field.Follow Hollie McKay: Instagram: @holliesmckayTwitter: @holliesmckayWebsite: www.holliemckay.com➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 26 w/ @thechriscaulk—Chris Caulk is a former USC walk-on wide receiver who personifies the quality of tenacity. He defied the odds to become a member of the legendary USC football program whose story will help anyone who wants to achieve a goal. ••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show

Episode 25 w/ @adamcarolla—Adam Carolla is an American radio personality, comedian, actor and podcaster. He hosts The Adam Carolla Show, a talk show distributed as a podcast which set the record as the "most downloaded podcast" as judged by Guinness World Records in 2011. Carolla is most known for co-hosting the syndicated radio call-in program Loveline with Dr.Drew Pinsky. He was the co-host and co-creator of the television program The Man Show (1999–2004), and the co-creator and a regular performer on the television show Crank Yankers (2002–2007, 2019–present). Carolla has also appeared on the network reality television programs Dancing with the Stars and The Celebrity Apprentice. Adam's most recent book is titled, “I'm Your Emotional Support Animal: Navigating Our All Woke, No Joke Culture”.On this episode we talk about Adam's childhood growing up, getting started in the entertainment industry, his career in entertainment, navigating cancel culture and his passion for automobiles.••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show

Episode 24 w/ @joesoto135 —Joe Soto fought at the bantamweight division in the UFC. A professional competitor since 2006, Soto has also formerly competed for Bellator Fighting Championships, where he was the inaugural Bellator Featherweight World Champion and first ever winner of their Featherweight Tournament, and for Tachi Palace Fights where he is the former Tachi Palace Fights Bantamweight Champion.At the time Soto was born, the fourth son, his parents were struggling financially, with his father working as a garbage man and his mother as a house cleaner. Soto went to Porterville High School in Porterville, California where he was on the wrestling team and won a California state title under coach Tim Vanni. Soto got an athletic scholarship to Iowa Central Community College where he was a 2x NJCAA All-American. There, Soto wrestled with @jonnybones and @colbycovmma . Soto, Jones and Covington were also roommates during their freshmen and sophomore years.Soto began training mixed martial arts after meeting Paul Estrada who agreed to train him in his garage. Soto began training and took his first fight at a Gladiator Challenge event. Soto won the fight midway in the first round via technical knockout. Soto compiled a 4-0 record before getting signed to Bellator Fighting Championships (@bellatormma). In August 2014 Soto signed a deal with the UFC. Soto was expected to face Anthony Birchak on August 30, 2014 at UFC 177. However, the day of the weigh-ins, @renanbaraoufc had to be admitted to the hospital as a result of his attempts to cut weight. Soto stepped up and faced champion @tjdillashaw in the main event. Soto recently opened up a wrestling and MMA gym in Porterville, CA called @cencalsportsandfitness ••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

In this episode we sit down with Angélica Franganillo-Diaz who is a Political Science graduate from Florida International University. Before moving to Miami, Florida, Angélica studied at the University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez campus. Angélica considers herself a Puerto Rican-born-Cuban due to the enrichment of Cuban culture throughout her life. Her grandparents immigrated from Cuba in the 1970's to Puerto Rico, the place where they had her mom and uncle. Angélica's mother met her dad on one of her trips to Cuba with her grandmother. They fell in love, moved to Puerto Rico together, and had Angélica and her sister, Alejandra. A Majority of Angélica's family still lives in Cuba.An interest for Latin America arose mainly from Angélica's attachment towards Cuba. Growing up listening to stories about the ruthless Fidel Castro and his communist regime that led thousands of brave migrants, like her family, to risk their life in search, for what she believes to be the most valuable facet of our humanity–Freedom. As Angélica pursued her degree in Political Science during her first two years in Puerto Rico, there was a recurrence of people her age falling for the same populist rhetoric and politics that Fidel Castro once promised for Cuba. Sadly this recurrence is not unique only to Puerto Rican students at the University of Puerto Rico, but throughout the whole Latin American region. When Angélica came to Miami a hotspot of immigrants, the recurrence was still sadly the same. As someone who has experienced first hand the consequences of these rhetorics Angélica believes it is her duty to tell the stories of Cubans.Website: https://freedompoliticslatinamerica.org••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show

Ricardo Lamas is a retired Professional MMA Fighter who competed as a Featherweight in the UFC, with wins over current UFC lightweight Champion Charles Oliveria, Darren Elkins, Diego Sanchez, Cub Swanson and many more. He is the youngest of six brothers and was a college wrestler, earning All-American honors at the NCAA Division III Men's Wrestling Championships at 157 lbs. During his collegiate wrestling career (2001–2005), he racked up over 100 wins. Ricardo recently retired from the UFC in 2020 after his fight of the night win bonus over Bill Algeo. He currently runs and operates UFC Gym Naperville where he trains and coaches mixed martial arts. His father is Cuban and his mother is Mexican. The flags of these two countries are often displayed on his clothing during his fights. His father was the leader of a Cuban resistance movement under the Castro regime, eventually managing to hide in the Brazilian embassy in Cuba before escaping to the United States. Ricardo and his father are major voices and advocates against the violent, oppressive communist Regime in Cuba. On this episode Ricardo shares his fathers story of escaping Cuba and what is currently happening in Cuba with the violence between the oppressive Cuban government and the Cuban people. Please welcome Ricardo “The Bully” Lamas.Ricardo LamasWebsite: http://www.ricardolamas.com/UFC Profile: https://www.ufc.com/athlete/ricardo-lamasInstagram: @ricardolamasmmaThe Freedom First Podcast@freedomfirstusaSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Maria Bello is a young conservative activist who was born and raised in Venezuela. She actively denounced the human rights violations of Hugo Chavez and Nicolas Maduro while living in Venezuela. At the age of 17, Maria fled her home country due to the destructive democratic socialism implemented. Since her arrival in the United States, Maria has continued to be active in the fight against socialism and communism. She was the Coalition Director for Young Americans Against Socialism. Maria has also been featured in PragerU videos, including ''Americanos''.  Maria is also starting a non-profit that will be launching soon.Maria's Instagram: @mariafbelloFreedom First America@freedomfirstusafreedomfirstamerica1@gmail.comwww.freedomfirstusa.orgBlain Smothermon (Host)@blain6blain.smothermon@gmail.comSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 20 w/ the owner and founder of @n.a.g_industries Erik Heine.In this episode we sit down with Erik Heine, the founder and owner of NAG Industries, a military veteran, Gunsmith and an all around great human being. N.A.G Industries is a premium, local, veteran, and family owned company in Bakersfield, CA. They offer expertise in sales, repair, enhancement, and service of a wide variety of firearms, ammunition and equipment with a focus on Law Enforcement and Government Agencies. For more information you can visit them on instagram @n.a.g_industries, through email, info@nagindustries.com or give them call at (661) 364-9726. NAG Industries - Pride in what we do!Instagram: @n.a.g_industriesWebsite: www.nagindustries.comFacebook: NAGindustriesContact Information:661.364.97261803 Elzworth StreetBakersfield, CA 93312For more episodes and content visit: https://linktr.ee/freedomfirstSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Brent Gleeson is a Navy SEAL combat veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author of “Embrace the Suck”, "Taking Point" and CEO of Taking Point Leadership. He is an acclaimed speaker on topics ranging from leadership and building high performance teams to culture, resilience, and organizational transformation. Website: http://www.takingpointleadership.comInstagram: @brent_gleeson Support the show

Episode 18 with Major Williams! (@majorwilliams)In this episode we sit down with California gubernatorial candidate Major Williams to talk about his run for Governor of California in 2022, the recall Gavin Newsom efforts, his story growing up from rags to riches and why Californians should vote for him in the 2022 election. We also discuss his plans to restore the state of California if he is elected as governor.Instagram: @majorwilliamsWebsite: www.majorforgovernor.comSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Jack Carr is a New York Times bestselling author and former Navy SEAL. He is the author of The Terminal List, True Believer, and Savage Son. Jack Carr led special operations teams as a Team Leader, Platoon Commander, Troop Commander and Task Unit Commander. Over his 20 years in Naval Special Warfare he transitioned from an enlisted SEAL sniper, to a junior officer leading assault and sniper teams in Iraq and Afghanistan, to a platoon commander practicing counterinsurgency in the southern Philippines, to commanding a Special Operations Task Unit in the most Iranian influenced section of southern Iraq throughout the tumultuous drawdown of U.S. Forces. Jack retired from active duty in 2016 and lives with his wife and three children in Park City, Utah. On April 13th Carr released his newest book “The Devil's Hand”, so make sure to check it out. You can Visit Jack at OfficialJackCarr.com and follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook at @JackCarrUSA. Join the Team and subscribe, leave a rating, review and comment. Hit the link in bio to listen or watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. •And, remember, new episodes of THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCAST w/ hosts Blain Smothermon & Eric Hearn will drop every other Thursday.•Thank you for joining us on this Freedom First JourneyJack Carr's Website:https://www.officialjackcarr.com/Jack Carr's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jackcarrusa/Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

David Meltzer is the Co-founder of Sports 1 Marketing and formerly served as CEO of the renowned Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment agency, which was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire.His life's mission is to empower OVER 1 BILLION people to be happy! This simple yet powerful mission has led him on an incredible journey to provide one thing…VALUE. In all his content and communication that's exactly what you'll receive.  He is a three-time international best-selling author, a Top 100 Business Coach, the executive producer of Entrepreneur‘s #1 digital business show, Elevator Pitch, and host of the top entrepreneur podcast, The Playbook. His newest book, Game-Time Decision Making, was a #1 new release, David has been recognized by Variety Magazine as their Sports Humanitarian of the Year and awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.•Join the Team and subscribe, leave a rating, review and comment. Hit the link in bio to listen or watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. •And, remember, new episodes of THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCAST w/ hosts Blain Smothermon & Eric Hearn will drop every other Thursday.•Thank you for joining us on this Freedom First JourneyDavid Meltzer's Website:https://dmeltzer.com/David Meltzer's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/davidmeltzer/Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

John Nores is a recently retired game warden with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. While serving he helped develop the Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET) and Delta Team, the first comprehensive special operations tactical team and sniper unit, with a mission to combat the marijuana cartel's destruction and decimation of California's wildlife resources. He is the bestselling Author of “Hidden War” and “War in the Woods” which you can purchase using this link below. John is also a musician who plays in the band Area 56, competes in triathlons, marathons and even racing in the Baja 500. •John discuses some of the most dangerous moments he has encountered as well as the very rewarding side to preserving the United States of America and its Public Lands. We talk John Nores's Game Warden Career, firearms, Illegal Drug Cartel Grows, Environmental destruction on public lands, special operations, music, and more. Check out the podcast for more! •Join the Team and subscribe, leave a rating, review and comment. Hit the link in bio to listen or watch on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. •And, remember, new episodes of THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCAST w/ Blain & Eric drop every other Thursday. •Thank you for joining us on this journey.  Always have a Freedom First Mentality. •Check out Johns Book " Hidden Warhttps://www.amazon.com/Hidden-War-Operations-Reclaiming-Wildlands/dp/1946267619John Nores Website:http://www.johnnores.com/​Follow John on IG:https://www.instagram.com/johnnores/​Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Coach Mike Machado is entering his 17th year of coaching football and 11th year teaching. Coach Machado and many other coaches, players and parents in CA have been vocal about getting all youth and high school sports back playing, citing the negative effects the lack of athletics has had on our kids. Mike Machado has coached at Tulare Western, Mission Oak, Porterville High School, El Capitan (Merced) and Mt. Whitney. He recently spent 3 seasons as Head Football Coach for the Porterville Panthers, where he rebuilt the program from a (2-8) record too back to back playoff appearances in 2018 and 2019, going a combined 20-14 in three seasons with the program. Coach Machado has been known to run a wide-open offense that scores quick and often. This past year Machado returned to his old stopping grounds at Mission Oak High School in Tulare, CA being named the Head Football Coach, where he previously spent time as a former Hawks assistant under Mark Gambini. This decision, Machado says, was a personal decision to spend more time with his two children.•Executive Producer: Blain Smothermon (@blain6)Hosts: @blain6 / @_erichearn•Let Them Play California: https://twitter.com/letthemplayca1Coach Machado's Twitter: https://twitter.com/_CoachMachadoMake sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Tyson Durfey is a Rodeo Cowboy who competes as a Tie-Down Roper. He won the National Finals Rodeo WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP in 2016 and has qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 14 times. Tyson has gone broke twice in pursuit of a World title, from sleeping on couches to the back seat of his truck. His back has been against the wall his entire life, growing up poor and having to work for everything he has. Tyson Durfey is a prime example of the Freedom First mentality.  • Producer: @grimsleezy Hosts: @blain6 / @_erichearn • Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Marion Reneau is a Mixed Martial Artist currently competing in the UFC . She is the #10 Ranked Women's Bantamweight. Marion Reneau is a graduate of California State University Long Beach with a degree in sports medicine and she is a high school teacher. She owns and runs @trifecta_mma_visalia in Visalia, CA where she trains and fights out of. Reneau began her professional mixed martial arts career in 2010. After winning several professional fights she attempted to try out for The Ultimate Fighter 18. However, she was allegedly told by UFC brass that she was too old to be a contestant on the show, but to keep pressing on and to win a couple of more fights. On the heels of her submission victory over Maureen Riordan in July 2014 at Resurrection Fighting Alliance 16, she was signed by the UFC. On February 27th the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt will fight @macychiasson in Las Vegas, NV which was originally scheduled for February 6th, but pushed back due to a positive COVID-19 test.•Producer: @grimsleezyHosts: @blain6 / @_erichearn•Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Dr. Mark Gordon is an expert in the field of Neuroregenerative medicine, the treatment of traumatic brain injuries and is recognized as a top leader worldwide in interventional endocrinology. He is the founder of the Millennium Health Center, and in 2006 and 2007 he participated in ESPN outside the line programs where he shared his clinical experience assessing and treating both professional Boxers and NFL players who had complications arising out of their sports.  He has appeared on several episodes of the Joe Rogan experience and most recently appeared on the @joerogan Experience w/ his partner Andrew Marr for episode #1589. •Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and all other streaming platforms.

Episode #10 -  DR. JONATHAN HERNANDEZ "H" (@rise2itpro_h)Professor of CommunicationFounder, Speaker, RISE 2 IT PRODUCTIONSBig thanks to @rise2itpro_h and @rise2itpro for coming on the show! We had a blast.••" Dr. Jonathan Hernandez is a Professor of Communication and the Founder, Speaker, of RISE 2 IT PRODUCTIONS, The #1 Motivational Speaking Company in Central California. Dr. H has earned national attention for being ranked the fifth highest-rated professor in the United States according to NBC News, NBC Latino, and USA Today. Jonathan has also been nominated and selected as Business Street Online's “40 Under 40” class, that highlights outstanding business professionals in the private and public sectors who have yet to reach the age of 40. Dr. H thrives on getting others to see beyond their limitations and to truly be relentless in achieving their goals. He is humble at heart and has an exceptionally well-known reputation for giving it his maximum effort(s) inside and outside of the classroom.•IF YOU CAN RISE 2 IT, YOU CAN RISE THROUGH IT!”•Host/Producer: @blain6Digital Art: @ohgod.jenks•TOPICS: LEADERSHIP, COMMUNICATION, ACHIEVING SUCCESS & MORE•Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Episode 8: Tattoo Artist: Joey Mullen (@inkbyjoeymullen89)We had an amazing conversation with Tattoo Artist and competitive shooter Joey Mullen (@inkbyjoeymullen89) about tattoos, business, firearms, growing up on the East Side of Bakersfield and much more. Joey Mullen is 31 years old and was raised in East Bakersfield. He has been raising his family since he was 16 years old, leaving high school and working for his Family tattooing since he was 14 years old. Joey came from a concrete and construction background in order to support his family at a young age until he decided tattooing was his true calling. This week we had a special guest host @jeffriesfirearmstraining join us on the Podcast.Hosts: Blain Smothermon (@blain6) Eric Hearn (@_erichearn) Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, YouTube and all other streaming platforms.

Episode 7: Therapist, Erika Nicole Jackson (@erikanicolejackson) & Educator, Fernando “Gonzo” Gonzalez (@fgj_24)•Our Guests this week, Tulare, CA Native and @fresno_state Graduate, Erika Nicole Jackson is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with children and families treating a wide range of clinical diagnosis including depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, schizophrenia, grief and loss, relationship conflicts and much more.Fernando “Gonzo” Gonzalez is also a Tulare, CA Native and @fresno_state Graduate. Fernando is a revolutionary educator who specializes in relationship building and the social and emotional aspects of education.•Hosts: Eric Hearn (@_erichearn) & Blain Smothermon (@blain6)•TOPICS: MENTAL ILLNESS | EMOTIONS | THERAPY | SOCIAL MEDIA | SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL LEARNING | ADVICE FOR PARENTS W/ KIDS STRUGGLING W/ MENTAL ILLNESS | TIPS FOR DEALING W/ MENTAL ILLNESS |•Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, YouTube and all other streaming platforms! (LINK IN BIO)Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 6: Special Episode dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month and all those who have or are currently battling breast cancer with Margie Britton. Margie Britton has been an educator for over 35 years making an impact like few have, she has spent time as a teacher, administrator and many other roles. Margie is a breast cancer survivor who tells her story fighting breast cancer in this episode of the Freedom First Podcast. As a world traveler Margie has spent time in countries all throughout the world. She is one of the most selfless and hard working people I have ever met. I hope you enjoy this episode with the always inspirational Mrs. Margie Britton.-TOPICS: BREAST CANCER • LEADERSHIP • EDUCATION • TRAVELING • -Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Episode 5: This  Special Episode is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month w/ @missvalkondos.•How does a professional dancer become one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history? She cares for her athletes and teaches them to have fun. The The Freedom First Podcast is proud to welcome Valorie Kondos Field to this week's epic show. Valorie Kondos Field also known as Miss Val is a former Professional Ballerina Dancer turned Gymnastics Coach and the recently Retired Head Coach of the UCLA Women's Gymnastics Team.  Miss Val is a 7 Time NCAA National Champion, 22-time Regional and 18-time Pac12 Champion UCLA Women's Gymnastics team, Miss Val was inducted into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010. The four-time “National Coach of the Year” was recently named “West Region Coach” of the Year, Pac-12 Coach of the Year, and “Coach of the Century” for her solid track record as a preeminent coach. She has coached many Olympic Medalists and National Champions during her 37 year career. In 2014 she was Diagnosed with an aggressive form of Breast Cancer, however she is now cancer free. Miss Val is the Author of “Life is Short, don't Wait to Dance.” •TOPICS: BREAST CANCER • MENTAL HEALTH • COACHING • LEADERSHIP • YOUR WHY AND PURPOSE BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS •Follow Miss Val on Instagram (@missvalkondos) and visit her website (www.officialmissval.com) for more information.•Make sure to subscribe and give a rating on  Apple Podcast, YouTube and all other streaming platforms.Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 4: “From Prison To The Olympics” with Tony Hoffman. Tony Hoffman is our guest on EP 4 of The Freedom First Podcast. This Special Episode is dedicated to National Suicide Prevention Month.•Tony Hoffman's viral story of his triumphant journey through sports stardom, mental health struggles, substance use disorder, homelessness & his quest to coaching in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. It's a story that pierces the hearts and minds of it's listeners, It simply CHANGES LIVES. Tony has been sober since May 17th, 2007. His BMX career started in high school, as he was a top-ranked BMX amateur with multiple endorsements. As a native of Clovis, Ca, where he attended Clovis High School, Tony started drinking alcohol, smoking marijuana, and using prescription painkillers such as Vicodin and Oxycontin by his senior year. His life took a turn for the worse as he became addicted at such a young age, losing everything.In 2004 Tony committed a home invasion armed robbery, and was ultimately sent to prison for two years in 2007. Tony had violated his probation and knows the depths of addiction, and understands the despair addicts go through as even a ten-year prison sentence threat, could not stop him from using during his probation. Tony began rebuilding his life's purpose while he spent two years in prison. As soon as he was released, he used the positive and negatives of his life to get to where he is, today. Today, Tony is a changed man, and inspires so many to live their life with purpose. Tony is a former Professional BMX racer, top BMX coach, Olympic coach, founder of a non profit organization called the @freewheelproject, along with several other business. Tony has been sober for over 12 years and is now one of the top motivational speakers in the country, traveling over 200 days a year to speak at schools, conferences and business all over the United States. Tony has dedicated his life, to bringing awareness around the country, describing how dangerous prescription pill and heroin abuse are, as well as advocating a shift in thinking towards current addiction-recovery processes. •DRUG ADDICTION • MENTAL HEALTH • RECOVERY • FAITH • TRIUMPH•Follow Tony Hoffman on Instagram @tonymhoffman and visit his website www.tonyhoffmanspeaking.com for more information.•Make sure to subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify, iHeart Radio, YouTube and all other streaming platforms (LINK IN BIO)

Episode 3: Officer Ronnie Jeffries (@jeffriesfirearmstraining) a current police officer, military veteran and fire arms instructor joined us on the @freedomfirstusa Podcast this week to discuss his story of becoming a police officer and his ideas on community policing and police reform. We discussed police reform, community relations, firearm safety, mental health and much more. Ronnie has spent time in the SWAT team, Gang Unit, as a Range master, community relations officer and patrol officer. As the owner of Jeffries Firearm Training, Ronnie instructs all levels of fire arm training and safety courses.--If you're looking for firearm training and safety courses make sure to contact Jeffries Firearm Training. Anywhere From intro and basic courses for men and women to classes for the most advanced Firearm experts, Ronnie Jeffries will take care of your needs. Make sure to Contact Jeffries Fire Arm Training on instagram https://www.instagram.com/jeffriesfirearmstraining/ or through email: jeffriesfirearmtraining@gmail.com. --Some of the mentors and supports of Officer Ronnie Jeffries are:Mike Leupold (https://www.instagram.com/knockoutlights/)https://www.instagram.com/kawa_m_official/https://www.instagram.com/mullet_operandi/https://www.instagram.com/chandla_bang/https://www.instagram.com/j3perez26/https://www.instagram.com/flashpoint_actual/https://www.instagram.com/traviskennedy267/https://www.instagram.com/theoperationalathlete/--Sponsors:https://www.salomon.comhttps://www.us-elitegear.comhttps://www.dfndrarmor.comhttps://www.gatorz.comhttps://nagindustries.comhttps://ufpro.comSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 2: Fernando "Gonzo" Gonzalez. Fernando is a revolutionary educator, coach and fitness fanatic. In this episode we discussed school closures, distance learning and the future of education.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fgj_24/ ( @fgj_24) Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mr_Gonzo_  (@Mr_Gonzo_) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxWW4pEUyFQVC4xNAVdJcQSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

Episode 1: Guest: Kassandra Gutierrez (Insta: @kassgutierreztv)Follow Kassandra Gutierrez on Instagram @kassgutierreztv Moved from Lindsay, CA to Eugene, Oregon for her dream job in 2019.Media Journalist, News Reporter, Weekend Weather Anchor Eugene, Oregon - NBC16 - KVAL - UCSB In this episode we had on Miss Kassandra Guitterez. Kassandra is a Central Valley native who is a reporter and journalist for NBC16 and KVAL in Eugene, Oregon. She has done extensive reporting and journalism work on topics such as Coivid-19 and sex trafficking. We had the opportunity to sit down with Kassandra to discuss her story of going from a Central, CA kid, to achieving her dream at a young age of becoming a prominent reporter in Oregon. We discussed her work, experiences and knowledge on the most important issues our World is currently facing, Covid-19 and Sex traffkciing. Please welcome, the amazing, miss Kassandra Guiterrez ladies and gentleman. Links mentioned in this Episode:Polaris Project: https://polarisproject.orgOperation Underground Railroad: https://ourrescue.orgKassandras Projects: https://kval.com/news/local/lane-county-against-human-trafficking-rallies-ahead-of-super-bowl-sunday-02-03-2020 https://nbc16.com/news/local/survivor-speakout-gives-human-trafficking-victims-chance-to-heal-and-find-comforthttps://nbc16.com/news/local/if-it-wasnt-for-you-guys-id-be-dead-hope-ranch-helps-sex-trafficking-survivorsInstagram: @freedomfirstusaFacebook: Twitter: @freedomfirstusWebsite: https://www.freedomfirstusa.orgYoutube: Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)

The Freedom First Podcast Preview TrailerSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)