Cavalry Agency, Navy Federal Credit Union, Purdue University Global and Veterans United Home Loans proudly present Your Next Mission™ podcast with the 12th Sergeant Major of the Army and Co-Founder of the American Freedom Foundation, Jack L. Tilley. Your Next Mission™ is a new program initiative of the American Freedom Foundation. where you will be listening and enjoying outstanding and interesting guests who will provide insights and real take-a-ways for our Veterans, military service members, military spouses and families as it relates to their transition from military to civilian life. We'll be addressing topics and issues either you, a family member or friend may already be dealing with; this podcast will be a place where we can laugh and cry together and have frank and honest conversations about questions we’re all trying to answer and have some fun along the way. To learn more about the Your Next Mission, please visit YourNextMission.org. You can even send SMA Tilley a message by leaving him a message or sending him an email. He'd love to hear from you! Send him your questions and stories. Message | 844.424.1134 Email | smatilley@yournextmission.org

Military retirement sounds like the finish line, but the next battle begins after you take off the uniform. Welcome to Your Next Mission®, the nation's #1 video podcast on military transition and leadership.In this episode, host and the 12th SMA (R) Jack L. Tilley sits down with Stacy Holt, @usaa Military Affairs Director Spouse Engagement & 30+ year Marine spouse and the 15th MCPON (R) Russell L. Smith to pull back the curtain on the intense, unexpected, and often unsettling challenges of military retirement.From the reality of financial readiness under the Blended Retirement System (BRS) to personal mental health battles post-command, this raw and honest conversation gives Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families the blueprint to survive and conquer their "second act."On the second half of the episode where Master Chief Smith shares a jaw-dropping story about how USAA proactively hunts down active-duty Servicemembers to refund them thousands of dollars using the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) , and Stacy shares a raw, heart-wrenching account of how a single community event literally saved a military spouse's life.If you are Servicemembers, a Veteran, or a Military Spouse navigating life after service, this raw, honest, and vulnerable conversation will give you the blueprint to find your "second act" and remind you that you are never alone.

On this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast,SMA Tilley welcomes Jessica Manfre, LCSW — Military Events Manager at Recurrent Military, Director of MilSpouseFest, licensed therapist, author of Never Alone, and proud Coast Guard spouse of 21+ years. Jessica oversees 8+ MilSpouseFest events a year (presented by USAA) on bases across the country and now internationally and works alongside founder Curtez Riggs on the Military Influencer Conference (MIC). In this episode, Jessica and SMA Tilley dig into: The biggest challenges facing Military spouses today (community, child care, mental health, employment). Why the Military Spouse is the ultimate force multiplier. How MilSpouseFest brings free, family-friendly programming to bases nationwide. Upcoming 2026 stops: Norfolk Naval Base May 12, Osan AB & Camp Humphreys South Korea Oct 20–21, and Puerto Rico in December. What MIC 2026 in Tampa really is (hint: "influencer" means LEADER, not TikTok dancer). Real talk on PCS, deployment, isolation, and finding your people. This year the MIC 2026, is September 23–26 at the JW Marriott in Tampa, FL, where nearly 4,000 attendees are expected. Whether you're a Servicemember, Veteran, Milspouse, Milpreneur, content creator, or military-connected brand, this is THE event of the year. Eligible to attend MilSpouseFest? Active, Guard, Reserve, AND Veteran Spouses — all welcome, kids included. milspousefest.com | militaryinfluencer.com | yournextmission.org

No Airman Left Behind. Inside the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, that promise is more than words. It is a mission that never ends. On this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley goes inside the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (AFW2) with MSG (R) Marsha Hoskins of AFW2, Leslie Santiago Rodriguez and CMSgt (R) Jason David of Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Federal Employee Program, and to reveal exactly how this program is changing lives and why no Airman is ever left behind.The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program (AFW2) is the lifeline for wounded, ill, and injured Airmen, Guardians, and their Families. From the moment of injury through every stage of recovery, AFW2 walks alongside warriors with personalized care, advocacy, mentorship, and a community that refuses to let anyone heal alone. And when partners like Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program stand shoulder to shoulder with that mission, the impact multiplies. This is the inside look every Airman, Guardian, caregiver, Veteran, and Military Family needs to hear.CMSgt (R) Jason David shares the warrior's perspective. Marsha Hoskins breaks down how the program actually works and who it serves. Leslie Santiago Rodriguez explains how Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP partners with AFW2 to extend care and resources to those who served. Three voices. One mission. Zero filters. Because heroes don't heal alone, and no Airman is ever left behind.LEARN MORE / GET INVOLVEDAir Force Wounded Warrior Program: https://www.woundedwarrior.af.milBlue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program: https://www.fepblue.orgWhat you will hear in this episodeInside the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program and exactly who qualifies for AFW2 supportHow AFW2 walks with warriors and Families from the moment of injury through every stage of recoveryWhy CMSgt (R) Jason David says the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program saved more than just his careerHow Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program partners with AFW2 to extend care, advocacy, and lifelong resourcesWhat caregivers and Military Families need to know about the support available to them right nowWhy the transition from active duty to civilian life is one of the hardest battles a wounded warrior fightsThe role adaptive sports, mentorship, and community play in the healing process inside AFW2How the partnership between BCBS FEP and the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program is reaching Airmen who did not know help existedWhy corporate America stepping up matters and what real partnership looks like in actionThe honest truth about what wounded warriors and their Families need most and how you can be part of the solutionHow to connect a wounded, ill, or injured Airman or Guardian to AFW2 todayWhy no Airman is ever left behind and what every Veteran should know about asking for helpWhat is the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program?Who qualifies for AFW2 support?How does the Air Force support wounded, ill, and injured Airmen?What does No Airman Left Behind mean in the Air Force?How does Blue Cross Blue Shield partner with the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program?What benefits do wounded warriors get through Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program?How does AFW2 help with the transition to civilian life?What support is available for Air Force wounded warrior families?How do I connect a wounded Airman to the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program?What is the role of caregivers in AFW2?How do adaptive sports help wounded warriors heal?What resources are available for Air Force veterans with PTSD or TBI?How does the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program work with the VA?What is the impact of AFW2 on Airmen and Guardians?How can civilians support wounded warrior programs?What does Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP cover for federal employees and veterans?#NoAirmanLeftBehind #AirForceWoundedWarrior #AFW2 #BlueCrossBlueShield #BCBSFEP #FederalEmployeeProgram #WoundedWarrior #YourNextMission #SMATilley

The NCO Corps does not need compliant Soldiers. It needs committed warfighters. On this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, 12th Sergeant Major of the Army (R) Jack L. Tilley sits down with 17th Sergeant Major of the Army Michael R. Weimer to break down exactly what turns compliance into commitment and why the difference is the why. Two SMAs. Zero filters. The truth that every Soldier, NCO, Veteran and Military Family needs to hear right now. SMA Weimer said it straight. "You could be really fit, really tough, and still be a one trick leader". And in 2026 that is not enough. The NCO Corps needs Soldiers who are adaptive, curious, continuously learning and committed from the inside out. Not because they have to be. Because they understand why they should be.These two leaders go beyond the manual to discuss merit-based retention, Transforming in Contact, and how the Army is using Artificial Intelligence to update doctrine at light speed. Whether you are an active duty NCO or a Veteran transitioning to civilian life, this is the "No Filter" truth about the state of the force.What you will hear in this episodeWhy SMA Weimer says brilliance at the basics is the only foundation that makes technology lethalHow Transforming in Contact is putting new equipment directly into the hands of Soldiers and taking real time feedback on the spotWhy the Army's new merit-based retention strategy is finally rewarding committed Soldiers instead of treating everyone the sameWhat the journey from compliance to commitment actually looks like across a 20 to 30 year careerWhy adaptability and continuous learning are the most critical skills for the NCO of 2026 and beyondHow Combined Arms Center is using artificial intelligence to update doctrine and training at a speed this Army has never seen beforeWhat SMA Weimer witnessed at minus 20 degrees in Alaska that made him proud of this generation of NCOsWhy the warrior mindset that made you successful in uniform will make you successful the day you take it offThe honest truth about barracks healthcare and food strategy and what Army leadership is doing about it right nowWhy leaders who explain the why are the ones who turn compliant Soldiers into committed war fightersWhat both SMAs say every young Sergeant must master that is completely different from what was required of their generationHow home station training before CTC rotations is transforming readiness across the entire forceWhy you cannot be a one trick leader in today's Army and what that means for your career right nowWhat SMA Weimer means when he says the Army is on a war path to eliminate ridiculous rules so Soldiers can train and fightWhat is the difference between a compliant Soldier and a committed Soldier?How do Army leaders build commitment in their Soldiers?What does SMA Weimer say about NCO leadership in 2026?How do you turn a compliant Soldier into a committed war fighter?What is merit-based retention and how is the Army changing it?How does the Army use artificial intelligence in NCO training today?What is Transforming in Contact and how does it impact Soldiers?What skills does a sergeant need in 2026 that were never required before?How do you build trust with this generation of Soldiers?What is the journey from compliance to commitment in the Army?How is the Army updating doctrine faster using artificial intelligence?What did SMA Weimer say about NCO grit and the next generation?How does home station training prepare Soldiers before CTC rotations?What is Combined Arms Center doing with artificial intelligence right now?What does every battalion Sergeant Major need to be doing before a Soldier reaches their ETS window?How does the warrior mindset translate from military service to civilian life?What is the Army doing about barracks healthcare and food strategy for Soldiers and Families?How do you go from one enlistment to 20 plus years of committed service?

What does it look like when a bank actually understands the mission? What if your financial institution spoke your language, operated with discipline, and had your six the way your unit did? On this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, Jill Castilla joins SMA Tilley to break down how Citizens Bank of Edmond is redefining banking for Veterans, Servicemembers, and Military Families and how the Roger app is changing the way people manage money in real time. This isn't just about banking. This is about readiness, trust, and leadership applied to your finances...the way you can understand! Are you tracking?.....What is the Roger app and how does it work?How does Citizens Bank support Veterans and Military Families?What banks are best for Servicemembers and Veterans?How can Military Families improve financial readiness?What financial tools are designed for the military community?Who is Jill Castilla and why is she important in banking?What makes a bank military-friendly?How can Veterans better manage money after service?What are the best banking apps for budgeting and saving?How does leadership translate from the military to banking?What is the Roger app?What are the best banking apps for Veterans?How Jill Castilla leads with purpose in the financial sectorWhy Citizens Bank of Edmond is different from traditional banksHow the Roger app is helping simplify finances for everyday AmericansThe real financial challenges facing Veterans and Military FamiliesWhy financial readiness is just as critical as mission readinessLeadership lessons from the battlefield to the boardroomIf you're a Veteran, Servicemember, Military Spouse, or someone who supports the military community—this conversation is for you.#Veterans #MilitaryFamilies #Servicemembers #VeteranBenefits #MilitaryLife #FinancialFreedom #Banking #Leadership #YourNextMission #JillCastilla #RogerApp #MoneyManagement #TransitionSuccess #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition

Question? What Do PCSing Military Families Really Face? On this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes 1SG (R) Patrick Reed and wife Maria Reed, creators and hosts of the VetstreamTV.com series “Moving With The Military.” They expose the real, unfiltered truth behind military life on the move and discuss the unbelievable ways they are supporting many Military Families. What do Military Families REALLY go through during a PCS move?What is it like to uproot your life every 2–3 years?What does constant relocation do to marriages, careers, and children?Why do so many Military Spouses struggle to maintain careers?This conversation goes beyond the highlight reel.This is about the weight carried by Military Families every single move.WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE:The emotional and financial toll of PCS movesThe reality of starting over again and againHow Military Families build resilience through uncertaintyThe silent sacrifices of Military Spouses and ChildrenThe truth about employment challenges for Military SpousesThe mission and impact behind “Moving With The Military.”Why these stories matter for both the military and civilian communitiesWhat is a PCS move in the military?How often do Military Families PCS?Why is PCS so stressful for Military Families?What do Military Spouses struggle with the most?How do you prepare for a PCS move?What are the hardest parts of military life?How do Military Children handle moving so often?What support is available for Military Spouses?Can Military Spouses have stable careers?What is “Moving With The Military” TV show about?Who are the hosts of “Moving With The Military?”How do Military Families stay strong during transitions?What does life after a PCS look like?How do you rebuild community after moving?What are PCS entitlements and benefits?How does PCS affect mental health?What is the biggest challenge of Military Family life?How do you transition out of the military successfully?What is Your Next Mission® podcast?Who is SMA Jack L. Tilley?WHY THIS MATTERS:Behind every Servicemember is a Military Family that serves alongside them.PCS moves are not just logistics.They are life resets.New schools.New jobs.New communities.Over and over again.If you have ever worn the uniform, supported someone who has, or want to understand the true cost of service, this episode is for you.

Comedian Jeff Allen opens up about Marriage, Family Chaos, and Faith that Hits Home is exactly what audiences are searching for when it comes to real, relatable, and hilarious comedy rooted in truth and Faith.In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, comedian Jeff Allen joins SMA Tilley for a conversation that blends humor, real-life experience, and Faith in Christ. From marriage struggles to family chaos, Jeff Allen delivers comedy that hits home because it's real and relatable.Jeff Allen is one of the most recognized comedians in America, known for stand-up centered on marriage, parenting, and everyday life. What sets him apart is how his Christian Faith shapes his comedy by bringing perspective, honesty, and meaning behind the laughter.What makes this episode stand out is the dynamic between Jeff Allen and SMA Tilley. Their back-and-forth is natural, unscripted, and at times hilarious. You'll see moments where SMA Tilley is genuinely caught off guard laughing, as Jeff connects through shared truths about life, leadership, marriage, and Faith.Also• Jeff Allen on marriage, family chaos, and real-life humor• How Faith in Christ shapes his comedy and message• Why clean comedy still connects in today's culture• A real and funny conversation with SMA Tilley• Humor that hits without crossing the lineQuestions:Who is Jeff Allen, comedian?Is Jeff Allen a Christian comedian?Is Jeff Allen a clean comedian?What is Jeff Allen known for?What are Jeff Allen's best marriage jokes?Where can I watch Jeff Allen stand up comedy?Is Jeff Allen on Dry Bar Comedy?What comedians talk about marriage and family?Who are the best clean Christian comedians?Is clean comedy still funny today?Why is Jeff Allen so relatable?What podcast is Jeff Allen on?Who is SMA Tilley?What is Your Next Mission podcast?

On this week's episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes back Chris Davis, Assistant Vice President of Field Mortgage at Navy Federal Credit Union. Together they highlight the powerful role the VA Home Loan plays in supporting Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families on their path to homeownership, amplifying the value of this earned benefit and the real impact it continues to have across the military community.

Access to instant emergency money for Soldiers and their families. What is Army Emergency Relief (AER) and why has it been called the Army's safety net for Soldiers and their Families? How does Army Emergency Relief provide financial support when Soldiers face unexpected hardships? In this powerful episode of the Your Next Mission® Video Podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes 16th SMA (R) Michael A. Grinston, the CEO of Army Emergency Relief, to unpack the mission, resources, and impact of one of the most important organizations supporting the U.S. Army community.For decades, Army Emergency Relief has quietly helped Soldiers, Retirees, and Military Families overcome financial emergencies through grants, interest-free loans, scholarships, and assistance programs.But many in the Army community still ask:• What exactly does Army Emergency Relief do?• Who qualifies for AER assistance?• Can active duty Soldiers receive grants or loans from AER?• How does Army Emergency Relief help Military Families during emergencies?• What types of financial hardships does AER cover?• Does Army Emergency Relief help with rent, travel, or medical expenses?• What scholarships does Army Emergency Relief offer for Military Children and Spouses?• How does AER support Soldiers during PCS moves or unexpected financial crises?• Why do Army leaders say AER is one of the most important resources Soldiers should know about?• How has Army Emergency Relief impacted the lives of thousands of Soldiers across the force?Under the leadership of 16th SMA (R) Michael A. Grinston, Army Emergency Relief continues its mission to ensure no Soldier faces financial hardship alone.If you are a Soldier, Retiree, Military Spouse, leader, or someone interested in how the Army takes care of its people, this conversation will give you insight into one of the most powerful support programs in the military.You will learn: How Army Emergency Relief supports Soldiers financially Why leaders across the Army trust AER in times of crisis How to apply for Army Emergency Relief assistance What programs AER offers to Military Families and Children The long-term impact of Army Emergency Relief on Army readinessArmy Emergency Relief (AER) is the official nonprofit of the U.S. Army, providing financial assistance to Soldiers, retirees, and their families when they need it most. Through grants, interest-free loans, and scholarships, AER helps maintain Army readiness, morale, and family stability.Hosted on the Your Next Mission® video podcast, where we bring together military leaders, Veterans, and organizations making a real difference for the military community.What is Army Emergency Relief?How does Army Emergency Relief help Soldiers?Who qualifies for Army Emergency Relief assistance?Can Soldiers get financial help from AER?How do you apply for Army Emergency Relief?What grants does Army Emergency Relief provide?Does AER offer scholarships for Military Families?#ArmyEmergencyRelief#AER#MichaelGrinston#YourNextMission#USArmy#MilitaryFamilies#SoldierSupport#MilitaryBenefits#Veterans#ArmyLife

Do you want to know how Veterans can benefit in $500 million in funding?In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes MG (R) Robert F. Whittle Jr., Senior Vice President, Head of Military Affairs at USAA, to break down the Honor Through Action initiative: a $500 million commitment dedicated to strengthening Veterans, Military Families, Transitioning Servicemembers, and those organizations committed to helping them.This conversation answers the question thousands are asking:What Veteran funding programs are available in 2026?Are there Veteran grants through USAA?How can Veterans benefit from $500 million in support?Does USAA offer financial assistance to Veterans?Are you searching for Veteran grants in 2026?The USAA Honor Through Action initiative is one of the largest private investments in the military community. This $500 million Veteran funding commitment focuses on:• Veteran grants and nonprofit partnerships• Military spouse employment programs• Transition assistance for Servicemembers• Financial readiness and education• Mental health and community support• Veteran entrepreneurship and economic opportunityIf you are a Veteran looking for funding, a nonprofit seeking partnership opportunities, or a military family searching for financial resources in 2026 and this episode explains how the USAA $500 million initiative works and how it supports the military-connected community.We discuss:• What is Honor Through Action?• How does the USAA $500 million commitment work?• Who qualifies for Veteran funding support?• How can nonprofits apply for partnership opportunities?• What does this mean for Transitioning Servicemembers and Military Families?• How does this strengthen long-term Veteran financial stability?Veteran funding in 2026 is not just about assistance, it is about opportunity, access, and action.If you are part of the military community, this may be one of the most important funding conversations you will hear this year.Watch now and learn how Veterans can benefit from $500 million through USAA's Honor Through Action initiative.

80,000 Soldiers training for war every year. That is the mission at Fort Leonard Wood, one of the United States Army's most important training installations.In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, we go inside Fort Leonard Wood with:• Major General Christopher G. Beck – Commanding General, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood• Command Sergeant Major Jorge Arzabala – CSM of the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard WoodTogether they discuss how Fort Leonard Wood prepares more than 80,000 Soldiers annually to serve across the Army and Joint Force.Known as the Home of the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, Fort Leonard Wood is responsible for training Soldiers in some of the Army's most critical warfighting specialties including:• Army Engineers• Military Police• Chemical Corps Soldiers• Transportation professionalsBut the story of Fort Leonard Wood goes far beyond modern training.Few people know that during World War II, the installation housed German and Italian prisoners of war, while simultaneously preparing American Soldiers for combat operations overseas.Since its establishment in 1940, Fort Leonard Wood has remained one of the Army's most vital training centers, shaping generations of Soldiers and leaders.In this episode we explore:• How 80,000 Soldiers train at Fort Leonard Wood every year• Why the installation is critical to the Army's warfighting mission• Leadership insights from MG Christopher Beck and CSM Jorge Arzabala• The future of Army training and readiness• The legacy and history of Fort Leonard WoodWhether you are a Veteran, Soldier, Family Member, or supporter of the U.S. Army, this conversation provides a rare look inside one of America's most important military installations.What happens at Fort Leonard Wood?How many Soldiers train at Fort Leonard Wood each year?Why is Fort Leonard Wood important to the Army?Who is the Commanding General of Fort Leonard Wood?Who is the Command Sergeant Major of Fort Leonard Wood?What MOS training happens at Fort Leonard Wood?Where do Army Engineers train?Where do Military Police train?Where do Chemical Corps Soldiers train?What is the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence?Did Fort Leonard Wood hold prisoners of war during WWII?What is Army training like at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri?Why do Soldiers train at Fort Leonard Wood?

In this episode of Your Next Mission®, SMA Jack L. Tilley sits down with LTG Chris Mohan and CSM Jacinto Garza, the leadership team of United States Army Materiel Command (AMC), to answer the question many ask but few fully understand:Who actually keeps the Army ready?AMC is the backbone behind the force.They sustain global operations.They modernize equipment.They rebuild the Organic Industrial Base.They power readiness through advanced manufacturing and data-driven sustainment.If you've ever wondered:• How does the Army maintain readiness between wars?• Who ensures equipment is modernized and fielded on time?• What role does innovation and data play in future warfighting?• Where does institutional leadership shape the future fight?This episode provides the answers.For Transitioning Servicemembers and Veterans, this conversation also reveals how enterprise-level leadership, logistics, manufacturing, and sustainment translate directly into civilian industry, federal service, and defense-sector careers.This is not just a discussion about logistics.It's a conversation about national readiness.If you care about the future of the force, modernization, and leadership at scale — this episode is for you.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Steven Grayhm, writer, director, and star of the new movie, “Sheepdog,” along with his co-star, Matt Dallas. The film follows a Veteran's emotional journey as he confronts the effects of trauma while transitioning back into civilian life.Together, they explore how real Veteran stories shaped the film—and why listening without judgment matters. They also share the demanding path behind the project: years spent listening, earning trust, carrying the responsibility of representing lived experience, and choosing authenticity over convenience to ensure these stories were told with honesty, respect, and care.

Health is the foundation of every successful transition after military service. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley sits down with John “JJ” Pinter, Deputy Director of Team Red, White & Blue and U.S. Army Veteran, to discuss why health, consistency, and community are critical long after the uniform comes off.Many of the negative outcomes we see in the Veteran space don't appear overnight. They often stem from a transition that lacked structure, connection, and a focus on physical and mental wellness. In this conversation, we explore how prioritizing daily movement, sustainable habits, and human connection directly impacts long-term performance, clarity, and overall well-being.

Invisible wounds can follow Warriors long after the uniform comes off. How do mission, purpose, and leadership evolve after service? In this week's Your Next Mission ® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Kevin Weaver, Co-Founder, President & CEO of The Warrior's Journey, and U.S. Air Force Veteran, for a powerful conversation about peer-to-peer support, the invisible battles Veterans face, and the importance of connection, purpose, and community beyond service.

A Veteran's Journey through Healing and Recovery begins this week on the Your Next Mission® video podcast where SMA Tilley welcomes MSG (R) Pasha Palanker. A U.S. Army Combat Veteran, whose journey is forged in moments where life and death stood eye to eye with an insurgent in a split second that forever changed this warrior's life. Together, they unpack the mindset required to survive, the weight of accountability, and the hard-earned steps Pasha took through healing and recovery to move forward as trauma, loss, and the echoes of war followed him home.

How do Mission, Purpose, and Leadership evolve after the uniform comes off? In this week's Your Next Mission ® video podcast episode, SMA Tilley sits down with SFC Johnny Vargas, also known as “Viva La Vargas” across Social Media, for a powerful conversation about impact, responsibility, and choosing to be a light in a dark world. Johnny shares why real leadership isn't about rank, platforms, or recognition. It's about showing up for people, leading with empathy, and using your influence to help others win. This episode speaks to Veterans, leaders, and anyone searching for meaning, connection, and direction in their next chapter.

The $1 Mission changing the Military is happening behind the scenes and most people never hear about it. In this week's episode on Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Robert Irvine, Chef, Entrepreneur, Author, Philanthropist, Tireless Supporter of our Nation's Veterans, Military, Families and First Responders and Founder of the Robert Irvine Foundation. Together, they explore how modernizing the military food service, improving nutrition, and focusing on human performance directly impact readiness across the Joint Forces. From major installations to daily life for Servicemembers and their Families, this conversation highlights why fuel, recovery, and leadership matter.

In this week's Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley explores with SFC (R) William A. “Stevo” Stephens Jr., Founder of 1821 Productions Voice of the Voiceless, the Three Pillars outlined in his books: The Mirror, The Broken Mirror, and No Filter.Through his Three Pillars—therapeutic poetry, coping mechanisms for military transition and self-development, and advocacy—Stevo shares how creative expression, personal growth, and continued service play a critical role in Veterans Wellness, helping them rediscover their identity and sense of purpose after leaving military service.

Evolving to meet the fight for the future of our Force: In this week's Your Next Mission® video podcast episode, SMA Tilley sits down with CSM Chad B. Harness from the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force-Africa (SETAF-AF) to discuss how the Army is evolving to adapt to tomorrow's future operational landscape

Inside the VA: Straight Talk brings you a direct, honest conversation as SMA Tilley sits down with The Honorable Dr. Paul R. Lawrence, Deputy Secretary of the VA, for a powerful episode focused on the future of Veteran care.Together, they break down the VA's next-generation electronic health record system and why seamless DoD-to-VA connectivity is essential for faster access, safer care, and a better experience for every Veteran.


Service, security, and confidence matter when navigating Open Enrollment Season. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley outlines the steps Retired Veterans and Military Families need to take to protect their dental & vision coverage with Senior Manager of Community Relations & Field Strategy for Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program, FLTCM (R) Paul Kingsbury, and Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Uniformed Services Advisory Board Member, 15th SMA (R) Daniel A. Dailey .Transitioning from active duty brings new responsibilities, and understanding your options is critical. SMA Tilley shares practical advice and firsthand insights to help you make confident choices as you retire, ensuring your benefits meet your needs.Your service doesn't end after active duty — your health and your family's security matter now more than ever. Watch and take charge of your next mission with confidence!


In this week's Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Victoria Kelly and Karin Tanabe, writers and producers of the PBS Documentary Atomic Echoes: Untold Stories from World War II. This powerful conversation uncovers the human impact behind the dropping of the atomic bomb in Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Don't miss this riveting discussion filled with historical insights, compelling storytelling, and the long-term repercussions for the survivors.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, titled Journey For A Cause, SMA Tilley welcomes Michael Kendall, President and Founder of No One Fights Alone Foundation & Christopher Farrington, Chief Operations Officer at Courser Racing Foundation. In this dynamic conversation, these Veterans highlight their heroic journey rowing across the Pacific Ocean to bring awareness to the national tragedy of Veteran suicide. Tune in to hear the physical and mental challenges they faced during this 35 day, 2,800 mile expedition.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, titled “Voice of the Army”, the 15th SMA (R) Daniel A. Dailey, the VP of NCO & Soldier Programs at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) joins SMA Tilley for a dynamic conversation about the incredible work being done by AUSA—the Voice of the Army. As we gear up for the Annual Meeting kicking off next week, they dive into how AUSA continues to advocate for Soldiers, Families, and Army initiatives around the globe. Tune in to hear stories, insights, and why AUSA remains such a vital force in supporting and representing our Army community.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes MG Daryl O. Hood, Commanding General, and CSM William M. Shoaf, Command Sergeant Major, of the U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson as they dive into what it takes to lead and train America's future Soldiers. From Civilian to Soldier — it all starts at Fort Jackson.

Healing from the Heart. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Claire Lawless, Former Senior Director, Quality Assurance & Brandi Salvatore, Case Manager, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Alaska Behavioral Health at Cohen Veterans Network. They highlight Cohen Veterans Network's mission to provide accessible, barrier free, high-quality mental health care for Veterans and their families.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Judy Isaacson Elias, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heroes to Heroes Foundation. They discuss the organization's unique one-year program for Veterans built around rediscovering values, relationships, and finding spiritual healing.

Transformation Journey. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes LTC(R) JC Glick, Author, Speaker and Chief Executive Officer of the COMMIT Foundation. In this candid and revealing conversation, they share LTC Glick's journey through transition that led to four suicide attempts and how he found identiy, purpose and community that gave him strength moving forward.

Break The Silence. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley sits down with Babs Chase, Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation & Executive Director of Face the Fight™. Together, they have a candid conversation uniting diverse voices to break the stigma around the national tragedy of suicide in the Military and Veteran community.

In this special episode of the Your Next Mission® videopodcast, SMA Tilley goes it alone with thoughts about his life from humble beginnings, journey through military service, and the challenges he faced transitioning to civilian life. Along the way, he shares how faith and family arethe two pillars that have guided him throughout his life.

In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes LTG Brian S. Eifler, Deputy Chief of Staff, U.S. Army G-1, and SGM Christopher P. “Smoke” Stevens, U.S. Army G-1 Senior Enlisted Leader. They discuss their primary focus on Army personnel and outline the development of effective policies designed to sustain personnel readiness—recognizing that people are the Army's greatest mission.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® videopodcast, SMA Tilley sits down with Jerome Tennille, U.S. Navy Veteran and Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Community Impact at Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU). Together, they explore how NFCU goes beyondbanking—serving their members, Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families with long-term support, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to community impact.

In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley interviews Chris Hale, CEO of VIQTORY and the Vetrepreneur Academy, as well as a U.S. Navy Veteran.Their discussion focuses on the ways military experience prepares Veterans for entrepreneurial success and examines how the Vetrepreneur Academy facilitatestheir transition into business ownership.

In this special episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast celebrating the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps 250th birthday, SMA Tilley is joined by the leaders of the Corps; command team, Chaplain (MG) William Green, Jr. and RSGM Meaghan B. Simmons. Together, they honor the Army Chaplain Corps' legacy of guiding Servicemembers and Families through life's battles with care, compassion, love and respect setting the conditions for them to help us as a nation towin!

In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley is joined by two distinguished guests: Leslie Santiago-Rodriguez, Manager of Uniformed Services Community Relations at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association(BCBSA) and U.S. Army Veteran and Jason David,Executive Director of Ibis Public Sector, Board Advisor for Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and Retired U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant. Together, they explore how Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program goesabove and beyond to ensure that Active-duty Servicemembers, Retired Veterans, and their Families fully understand their vision and dental benefits—and how tomake the most of them.

In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley sits down with SGM (R) Mark Reilly, CEO & President of The Washington Tattoo. Together, they dive into the healing power of music and its ability to empower Veterans and Transitioning Servicemembers byrestoring identity, offering purpose, and creating a sense of belonging in the face of mental health challenges.

In this episode of the Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley welcomes Amy More, Clinical Director, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock in Colorado Springs and Ashley Jensen, Senior Manager, Clinical Practice, Cohen Veterans Network. Together, they explore how military children often face many of the samemental health challenges as their parents who serve and how Cohen Veterans Network is working to address these unique needs through compassionate,evidence-based care.