Podcasts about Bagram Airfield

This is the VIC 4 VETS, Weekly Honored Veterans. SUBMITTED BY: Christopher Slater _____________________________________________________________ Good morning Ken, Thank you to you and Vic for honoring our military members. My veteran is Specialist (Corporal) David Bixler, Specialist Bixler was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. On September 30, 2010, Specialist Bixler was on patrol in heavily mined farmland in the Arghandab(AR-CON DOB) River Valley in Afghanistan. He was leading a team of three Afghan National Army Soldiers, when his unit was ambushed and heavy gunfire ensued. When Bixler saw that one of the Afghan soldiers had veered toward uncleared ground, he ran after him and pushed him to safety. While doing so, Bixler stepped on an improvised explosive device. He suffered the loss of both legs, damage to his spinal cord, traumatic brain injury, and other serious injuries. For his heroic action, Bixler was awarded the Silver Star, as well as a Purple Heart for his wounds. Bixler was the 2011 USO Soldier of the Year. Bixler was evacuated on or about October 1st, 2010, by an Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 tanker aircraft, configured for an aeromedical evacuation flight from Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, to Ramstein Air Base, Germany (close to Landstuhl Military Hospital, Germany, Bixler's destination). Bixler survived his catastrophic wounds, and has since accepted a smart home from Tunnels to Towers (2016) and become successful in the computer industry, owning his own small business, specializing in 3D printed components. American warrior. Respectfully,. Technical Sergeant Christopher Slater (retired) United States Air Force/Illinois Air National Guard ________________________________________________________________ This Week’s VIC 4 VETS, Honored Veteran on NewsTalkSTL.With support from our friends at:Alamo Military Collectables, Gemini Wealth Group H.E.R.O.E.S. CARE, Inc. Michel's Funeral Home and Freddie's Market See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the VIC 4 VETS, Weekly Honored Veterans. SUBMITTED BY: Christopher Slater _____________________________________________________________ Good morning Ken, Thank you to you and Vic for honoring our military members. My veteran is Specialist (Corporal) David Bixler, Specialist Bixler was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. On September 30, 2010, Specialist Bixler was on patrol in heavily mined farmland in the Arghandab(AR-CON DOB) River Valley in Afghanistan. He was leading a team of three Afghan National Army Soldiers, when his unit was ambushed and heavy gunfire ensued. When Bixler saw that one of the Afghan soldiers had veered toward uncleared ground, he ran after him and pushed him to safety. While doing so, Bixler stepped on an improvised explosive device. He suffered the loss of both legs, damage to his spinal cord, traumatic brain injury, and other serious injuries. For his heroic action, Bixler was awarded the Silver Star, as well as a Purple Heart for his wounds. Bixler was the 2011 USO Soldier of the Year. Bixler was evacuated on or about October 1st, 2010, by an Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 tanker aircraft, configured for an aeromedical evacuation flight from Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, to Ramstein Air Base, Germany (close to Landstuhl Military Hospital, Germany, Bixler's destination). Bixler survived his catastrophic wounds, and has since accepted a smart home from Tunnels to Towers (2016) and become successful in the computer industry, owning his own small business, specializing in 3D printed components. American warrior. Respectfully,. Technical Sergeant Christopher Slater (retired) United States Air Force/Illinois Air National Guard ________________________________________________________________ This Week’s VIC 4 VETS, Honored Veteran on NewsTalkSTL.With support from our friends at:Alamo Military Collectables, Gemini Wealth Group H.E.R.O.E.S. CARE, Inc. Michel's Funeral Home and Freddie's Market See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Col Valerie Sams, MD is an Air Force trauma surgeon, surgical critical care expert, and the Director of the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS) at the University of Cincinnati. Her path to the operating room was anything but ordinary.   Before medical school, she served as an Air Force line officer in logistics and fuels, learning how the operational side of the service actually works at the flight line. That bilingual fluency in operations and medicine now shapes how she advocates for resources, leads hospitals, and prepares the military health system for the next fight.    In this conversation, she walks through her two tours as the trauma czar at the Bagram role three hospital straight out of fellowship, where she was responsible not only for clinical excellence but for leading every nurse, emergency medicine physician, and surgeon doing trauma care across the theater. She talks honestly about the weight of that role, especially during her second deployment with junior surgeons on their first downrange experience, the rise in U.S. casualties, the green-on-blue threat, and her work standing up Medic-X as a force multiplier for limited deployed medical crews.     Col Sams makes a powerful case for the strategic importance of military-civilian partnerships like C-STARS, the only Air Force critical care air transport advanced training course, and explains how the Air Force, Army, and Navy are converging through the Joint Trauma System, the Mission Zero Act, and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book to professionalize military-civilian integration. She is direct about the skill sustainment crisis inside military treatment facilities, the shift from 65 percent beneficiary care to 20 percent, the urgency of the Military Unique Curriculum, and the need to train outside-the-tent skills deliberately rather than by accident.   Dr. Sams lays out a clear-eyed vision for large-scale combat operations: faster trauma registry feedback loops, autonomous and decision support tools, closed-loop control ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and a hard end to the wax pencil and TCCC card as battlefield documentation. She closes with what should remain the center of gravity for every military medicine decision — the warfighter — and the conviction that they deserve the best clinical care available anywhere in the country.     Chapters (00:47-05:47) From Fuels Officer to Trauma Surgeon (05:47-12:49) Two Tours as Trauma Czar at Bagram (12:49-24:46) ECMO Forward, C-STARS, and the Skill Sustainment Crisis (24:46-35:42) Joint Military-Civilian Integration and the Military Unique Curriculum (35:42-49:26) LSCO Readiness, Force Multiplication, and Battlefield Technology (49:26-58:30) Female Leadership, Clinical Excellence, and Legacy     Chapter Summaries (00:47-05:47) From Fuels Officer to Trauma Surgeon Col Sams describes her unconventional path from Air Force line officer in logistics and fuels to general surgery and trauma fellowship. She credits her operational background with giving her a bilingual fluency between line and medical worlds that strengthens how she advocates for resources, leads hospital operations, and earns credibility with non-medical commanders.   (05:47-12:49) Two Tours as Trauma Czar at Bagram She unpacks the weight of deploying as the trauma czar at the Bagram Role 3 immediately after her fellowship and the lessons that came from leading mass casualty events, debriefing young teams, and dealing with the green-on-blue threat. She explains the stand-up of Medic-X under Lt Gen Hogg as a deliberate force multiplier for limited deployed medical crews.   (12:49-24:46) ECMO Forward, C-STARS, and the Skill Sustainment Crisis Col Sams details her work projecting ECMO capability into austere environments and around the globe, then explains the mission, history, and structure of the three original C-STARS programs. She is direct about the skill sustainment crisis, with beneficiary care in military treatment facilities dropping from roughly 65 percent to 20 percent over two decades.   (24:46-35:42) Joint Military-Civilian Integration and the Military Unique Curriculum She describes the progress driven by the Mission Zero Act, the Joint Trauma System military-civilian work group, and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book. She makes the case for a robust Military Unique Curriculum that develops both surgical fundamentals and the outside-the-tent skills that today's young military surgeons need before they take their first leadership role downrange.   (35:42-49:26) LSCO Readiness, Force Multiplication, and Battlefield Technology Col Sams turns to large-scale combat operations and the blind spots that the counterinsurgency generation may carry into the next fight. She calls for faster trauma registry feedback, autonomous decision support tools, closed-loop ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and a hard end to the TCCC wax pencil as the primary battlefield documentation tool.   (49:26-58:30) Female Leadership, Clinical Excellence, and Legacy She offers candid advice to young female military surgeons on imposter syndrome, unconscious bias, and the discipline of staying clinically excellent. She closes with the conviction that patient-centered leadership, lifelong learning, and protecting clinical talent are the foundations of how military medicine should remember her work.     Take Home Messages Operational Fluency Strengthens Medical Leadership: Time spent on the line side of the military — understanding logistics, fuels, and how the operational force actually fights — builds credibility with non-medical commanders and sharpens advocacy for resources. Surgeons who speak the operational language sit at the right tables and make better decisions for their teams and their patients.   The Trauma Czar Role Demands Leadership Before Stride: Being responsible for an entire theater of combat casualty care immediately after fellowship is a heavy and unforgiving assignment. Clinical excellence is the floor; the real work is leading nurses, emergency medicine physicians, and surgeons through mass casualty events, debriefs, and the green-on-blue threat with junior teammates who have never deployed before.   Skill Sustainment Requires Military-Civilian Partnership: Military treatment facilities now deliver only a fraction of the beneficiary care they once did, and that volume cannot sustain combat-ready trauma teams. Embedded military-civilian partnerships like C-STARS, supported by the Mission Zero Act and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book, are the realistic path to keep wartime skills sharp.   Outside-the-Tent Skills Must Be Deliberately Trained: Today's young military surgeons need more than technical readiness. They need a deliberate Military Unique Curriculum that develops the non-clinical leadership skills required to run a theater trauma system, manage resources, and lead teams under pressure. Picking those skills up on the fly is no longer good enough.   LSCO Will Not Wait on the Wax Pencil: The next fight will not give the medical force three years to figure out what changed or seven years to update clinical practice guidelines. Force multiplication through MedicX, autonomous decision support tools, closed-loop ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and modern battlefield documentation are non-negotiable investments now, before large-scale combat operations force the lesson.   Col Valerie Sams, MD Biography    Colonel Valerie Sams is the Director of the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (CSTARS) Cincinnati and serves as Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCAT) Training cadre. Originally from Georgetown, KY, she was commissioned into the Air Force in 2000, initially serving as a supply and logistics officer, which included a deployment supporting Stabilization Forces in the Balkans.    Transitioning to medicine, she earned her medical degree from St. George's University in 2008. Col Sams completed her General Surgery Residency at the University of Tennessee Medical Center (2013) and a Trauma Critical Care fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center (2015).    As a trauma surgeon and ECMO physician, Col Sams deployed twice as the Trauma Czar for Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Her extensive leadership roles include Trauma Medical Director, Assistant Chief of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Ground Surgical Team Pilot Unit Leader, and director of various military trauma research programs.   Episode Keywords WarDocs, military medicine, military trauma surgery, combat casualty care, trauma czar, Bagram role three, Air Force trauma surgeon, C-STARS Cincinnati, critical care air transport, CCATT, Joint Trauma System, military civilian partnership, Mission Zero Act, military unique curriculum, large scale combat operations, LSCO, prolonged casualty care, MedicX, ECMO in combat, battlefield documentation, TCCC card, closed loop ventilation, military medical leadership   Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #CombatCasualtyCare, #TraumaSurgery, #JointTraumaSystem, #LSCOReadiness, #CSTARS, #MilCivPartnership   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine    WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

Megyn Kelly is joined for this Memorial Day special episode by Army master aviator Alan C. Mack, author of "Chinooks in the Dark," to talk about the "Horse Soldiers" mission, fighting the Taliban as part of the Night Stalkers, Donald Rumsfeld's blunt message, the deadly and tragic "Operation Anaconda," the incredible rescue mission of Marcus Luttrell, why rescuing a good guy is so rewarding, the Biden administration's disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal, what we should have done differently with Bagram Air Base, the connection to the Iran War now, what led him to his career in the Army, his experience as a mechanic, his transition to pilot and the success he had early on, dealing with stress while flying, the personality needed to succeed, staying calm even in a firefight, deployments after 9/11, and more.    More from Alan Mack:https://alancmack.com/   Birch Gold: Text MK to 989898 for a free info kit and to see if you qualify for up to $10,000 back through May 29. ARMRA: go to https://tryarmra.com/MEGYNto get 30% off your first subscription order Ethos Life Insurance: Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at: https://ethos.com/MK The Wellness Company: Don't let a sudden illness derail your summer—secure your peace of mind and save $45 on a Medical Emergency Kit today by visiting https://UrgentCareKit.com/MK and using promo code MK.     Follow The Megyn Kelly Show on all social platforms: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MegynKelly Twitter: http://Twitter.com/MegynKellyShow Instagram: http://Instagram.com/MegynKellyShow Facebook: http://Facebook.com/MegynKellyShow  Find out more information at:https://www.devilmaycaremedia.com/megynkellyshow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At stake in the Bagram bombing case is whether contractors retain broad immunity when supporting military operations and how much legal distance the government can place between itself and the work it assigns. The outcome could shape how the Defense Department handles oversight and risk‑sharing in future conflicts. I talked with Lisa Himes, of counsel with Rogers Joseph O'Donnell.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

SPONSORS: 1) MIZZEN & MAIN: Get 20% off your first purchase at https://mizzenandmain.com with promo code JULIAN20. 2) AMENTARA: Visit https://amentara.com/go/JULIAN and use code JD22 for 22% off your first order. 3) PROTECT MY DATA: Go to https://protectmydata.com and use code JULIAN for 30% off all annual plans. JOIN PATREON FOR EARLY UNCENSORED EPISODE RELEASES: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey CLIPPERS DISCORD: https://discord.gg/8QmWEKJ3BT (***TIMESTAMPS in description below) ~ Chad Robichaux is a former Force Recon Marine and Department of Defense (DoD) contractor with eight deployments to Afghanistan as part of a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) Task Force. CHAD's LINKS: IG: https://www.instagram.com/resilientshow/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@UCW73J_l3IHmtyNqJvPQujag BOOD: https://www.tyndale.com/p/riptide/9781496488756 WEBSITE: https://chadrobichaux.com/ FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY IG: https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://x.com/juliandorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 00:00 - Patriotism, 9/11 Doubts, War Profits, Ukraine, Aid Politics 10:14 - Afghanistan Collapse, China, Lithium, Bagram, Kabul Chaos 20:23 - Taliban Funding, Executions, US Aid, Media Silence 30:15 - DC Corruption, Term Limits, Military Complex, Lobbying 40:43 - System Corruption, Insider Trading, Political Wealth 50:19 - Veteran Disillusionment, War Ethics, Regime Change 01:01:17 - Iran Debate, Tribalism, DC Money, Outsiders 01:10:28 - Epstein Theory, Espionage, Moral Gray Zone 01:19:31 - War Atrocities, Mass Graves, Corruption 01:30:46 - Upbringing, Marines, 9/11, Recon Path 01:42:02 - Family, Faith, Recon Marines 01:51:09 - Undercover Police, Shooting, Trauma 02:03:28 - Shooting Aftermath, PTSD, Emotional Fallout 02:12:04 - Contractor Path, Taliban, Moral Questions 02:22:45 - War Futility, Tier One Ops 02:31:25 - Bin Laden, Motives, Interrogation 02:41:44 - Capture, PTSD, Identity Loss 02:50:55 - Suicide Attempt, PTSD, Family Impact 03:00:29 - Faith, Redemption, Veteran Mission 03:08:58 - Chad's work CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef - https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 412 - Chad Robichaux Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when your identity gets stripped away and you have to rebuild from scratch? I sit down with Jenna Rene Soto, a professional barrel racer, military intelligence analyst, author, and real estate investor who has lived through that exact challenge. You will hear how she moved from ranch life to the military, faced failure and financial collapse, and rebuilt her life with a stronger sense of purpose and self-worth. Jenna shares powerful lessons on identity, resilience, mentorship, and why chasing meaning matters more than chasing titles. I believe you will find this conversation both grounding and inspiring as you rethink what truly defines you and how to move forward when life forces a reset. Highlights: 00:39 – Discover how growing up on a ranch built discipline, work ethic, and a deep connection to horses 15:41 – Learn how making decisions without full information builds confidence under pressure 22:16 – Understand why focusing only on what you can control reduces fear and overwhelm 43:52 – Hear how hitting rock bottom can become the starting point for rebuilding your life 53:41 – Discover why your identity must go beyond your job or title to create real confidence 1:00:52 – Learn how changing your environment and taking small steps can help you break out of feeling stuck Bottom of Form About the Guest: Jenna René Soto is a real estate investor, author of Not Enough, professional barrel racer, and Mrs. Oklahoma City 2026. After serving nine years in the United States Air Force in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance roles, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, she transitioned into entrepreneurship and built a business focused on real estate investment and redevelopment. Her journey has not been linear. Following her military service, Jenna experienced financial hardship that forced a complete reset. Through real estate, discipline, and personal development, she rebuilt her life and business from the ground up. That experience became the foundation of her work today—helping others understand the connection between identity, decision-making, and long-term success. In addition to her business pursuits, Jenna has remained deeply connected to the rodeo industry as a competitive barrel racer. The lessons from that world—consistency, resilience, and performance under pressure—continue to shape her approach to both business and life. She is also a strong advocate for coaching and lifelong learning, crediting mentorship as a key factor in accelerating her growth. As Mrs. Oklahoma City 2026, Jenna uses her platform to speak to students, professionals, and community groups about identity, resilience, and rebuilding after adversity. She believes service is not limited by age or circumstance and is committed to helping others recognize their value and take ownership of their future. Ways to connect with Jenna: Website: https://jennarenesoto.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarenesotoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jennarenesotoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennarenesotoEmail: jennarenesoto@gmail.com About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:04 What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't what's in front of you, but rather what you believe Welcome to unstoppable mindset where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. I'm your host. Michael hingson, speaker, author and advocate for inclusion and possibilities. This podcast explores how the beliefs we carry shape the way we live, lead and connect with others. Each week, I talk with people who challenge assumptions, face adversity head on and show what's possible when we choose curiosity over fear, together, we focus on mindset resilience and the small shifts that lead to meaningful change. Let's get started. Well, hello, everyone, wherever you happen to be today? Or if I were playing Walter Winchell, I'd say Good evening, Mr. And Mrs. America and all the ships at sea flash. Anybody know who Walter Winchell was? If you don't know he was a reporter, did a lot of coverage in the world of radio and some on television. If you ever watched the old TV show, The Untouchables, with Eliot Ness, Walter Winchell was the narrator for that. He was a a pretty big reporter back in the day, as they say. But anyway, that's a different story, and we're not here to talk about Walter much today, but I want to thank you all for being here. Our guest today is Jenna Rene Soto. And Jenna has, well, she doesn't have a very exciting life. She's only been a barrel racer, Mr. Or Mrs. Northam, Mrs. Oklahoma City. She's been in the military. She's written a book. So you know, not much anyway. We're we're really glad that Jenna consented to be with us here on unstoppable mindset, and I think we'll have fun for the next hour or so. So, Jenna, welcome to unstoppable mindset. Thanks for joining us. Jenna Rene Soto  02:09 Thank you so much for having me. It's such an honor to be on your show, and I'm really excited to chat with you today. Michael Hingson  02:17 Well, and anything you want to talk about, we can talk about scandal is always a good thing, I'm sure. But anyway, that's another story too. Well, I'm glad you're here. Why don't you tell us a little bit about maybe the early Jenna growing up and some of that stuff. Speaker 1  02:33 Okay, so I grew up in western South Dakota on a rant that my great granddad homesteaded great great granddad actually in 1909 so my family grew up raising cattle and sheep, and then we ended up getting into the buffalo industry. But my love of horses really began at an early age, because we had horses to work on the ranch in South Dakota, it snows all the time, and the snow gets so deep, a lot of the areas where the cows would go to hide out from the weather you couldn't even access with a vehicle. So we had horses mainly to work, and my whole family ended up rodeoing, and I really just fell in love with it at an early age, and continued it all the way through college and competed on the equestrian team, and then I joined the military, and kind of got out of the military to pursue rodeo again, and ended up as a professional barrel racer. But horses have been a really big influence on my life and a huge passion of mine since I was just barely old enough to sit up, I'd been on the back of a horse. Michael Hingson  03:46 Well, what is barrel racing? I'm not familiar with it. I'm not sure if I've heard of it or not, but I'm not familiar with it. So what is barrel racing? Speaker 1  03:55 Well, barrel racing is the only women's event in the sport of rodeo, and you can think of it basically like a drag race, except instead of with cars, you've got horses. There are three barrels, and you can go around them from the left or the right first, but you make a clove release pattern, and the fastest time wins. The only penalty you might have is if you tip over a barrel. Yeah, five seconds. But if you are tipping over a barrel, the competition is so so close these days that we're down to the 100th of a second, so five second penalty, you're totally out. Michael Hingson  04:31 Yeah, so that's the only women's sport. So women typically don't participate in in other sports, or that's just the only exclusive women's sport. Speaker 1  04:43 That's the only professional level women's sport in rodeo. There are other organizations where women can actually ride bulls and ride broncs and rope, but in the main rodeo organization, it's only the barrel racing for the women. And it is exclusive to women as well, so you won't see any male competitors, but there are other organizations that allow that crossover. Why is that? I think it's tradition. Honestly, it's one of the oldest women's professional organizations in the country, and I think that is probably going to change in the future, because at least from my perspective, if I want to say that I'm the best in the world, I want to be competing against men, women, young and old. So I think they should do away with the age limits, first of all, and also the gender requirements. But I know that's a little bit controversial, but I think in the future, we'll see more male competitors trying to get involved with with this level of competition, Michael Hingson  05:49 but I would think also that women are capable of roping and riding bulls and so on. So I'm wondering why they're fewer and Speaker 1  05:58 further between. That's for sure. Writing is so physically demanding, it is a very, very challenging sport, but there are opportunities for women to compete, but I think the numbers just aren't there to make it more mainstream. But there, there are organizations where they can, yeah, but I will say I don't know, but maybe one or two, one or two people that do it, and I, I have tried riding a bull before, not a very aggressive one, and I don't care to get back up there again, because no matter what you're coming off, even if you make eight seconds, you're going to hit the ground. And it's not near as soft as it looks when you see other people. Michael Hingson  06:39 Yeah, the ground is not very forgiving, 06:43 is it not well? Michael Hingson  06:45 And I would rather make friends with an animal than ride it and get it mad at me. So I'm with you, in a sense. I like horses. I've petted bulls and cows and try to be friendly to them. And so I'm not, I'm not enamored with going up to one that's really likely to want a gourmet. Speaker 1  07:09 Yeah, yeah, I don't blame you. It is actually funny, though, a lot of the best bucking horses and bulls are really docile and pretty friendly when they're outside of the arena. And that's part of pro rodeo is born to buck program. So just like any other animal athlete, they have to instill you want to perform at that level and have the athleticism to be able to even get the cowboy off. So not every bull is even capable of doing that. And it is funny too, because if they don't want to, they won't, and there's nothing that you can really make them, you know, try any harder than they want to, but, but the top pro bucking bulls and pro bucking horses, they know their job. They're very athletic and prompted, and they really turn it on when the lights in the crowd are, you know, are over them. Michael Hingson  08:00 So they're smart and they know they're in a performing environment, as opposed to just always wanting to do it. I'm sure there are some that always want to, but mostly it's a performing thing, and they're smart enough to know that. Speaker 1  08:13 Yep, they are, and it's so cute. Each horse, at least, all of them that I've ever met, have such distinct personalities, yeah, and they're almost like a dog, if you're around them enough, you really get to know them and their preferences and their likes and dislikes. And it's really fun to get, to get that connection with your with your animal, Michael Hingson  08:32 yeah, and that's that's fine. So I didn't really know that, that it was more of a of a sport where the animals really do know what they're supposed to do and and they do it when they have to and when they don't have to, they're not necessarily feeling empowered to do that. They want to visit with people. Speaker 1  08:54 Yep, yep. That's right. That's cool. Michael Hingson  08:57 Well, there you go. Well, learn, learn something about that well and barrel racing that that keeps you busy. So how well do you do a barrel racing? Speaker 1  09:08 Well, I love it so much. I've been trying my whole life, honestly, and I I've won a lot, and I've had several setbacks, but it's something that I really enjoy, and the progress and the connection that I had with my horse in pursuit of greatness is is what I'm truly addicted to and keep coming back to. And I've had a couple of really great horses during my lifetime, but the thing I find the most rewarding is taking a young horse and watching them grow up on my ranch, and then finally, being able to get to ride them when they're big enough, and to see them learn and grow with you, and know that you know they had that experience because you you taught them and you gave it to them, and to see them be willing and proud of themselves. And that's pretty cool to me, and that's what, that's what I really enjoy. So I'll always have horses. Whether I'm able to compete or not. I think I'm a lifelong, you know, horse trainer, and just enjoy it so much. It's definitely something that I want to keep in my life. Michael Hingson  10:11 Well, it's also I would think about building a level of trust. And the reason you can be successful with a horse or whatever is that you you create and you develop that level of trust where you both know how to work with each other, you know how each other thinks. And, you know, I find that with every guide dog that I get, it's the same sort of thing. You've got to develop the relationship and make it work. Speaker 1  10:39 Yep, I can imagine this similar and just asking, you know, that animal to trust you and to, you know, take care of you as well. And something a lot of people don't think about in the rodeo world is that you're you're actually running full speed into an arena that you're not sure what the ground is going to be like, and there is a lot of responsibility on the horse to be able to find his footing and act quickly. And while I am hoping that we are able to turn the barrel as close as possible, if they're not able to do that because of the ground, that's where you'll see, some horses kind of be a little bit wider or maybe stumble, but a lot of times we'll just taking care of their rider. And so it is kind of cool how you you can work together and and there's always seems like there's more to do, but, but having that initial trust and bond is so important, because you really are asking a lot of them to go just totally full speed into arena lights and music and applause and to take care of you, and they eat it up. Yeah, they do. There are some that like it more than others, honestly. And just like the bucking bulls and the bucking horses, if they don't actually enjoy it, they're not going to perform well. And the sport is so competitive that they've really got to love it, and you also have to truly love it. And kind of, when you get to the rodeo, if you're showcasing what you've done at home, that's the fun part. But you've got to love the whole entire process, and more of it's going to be at home working through things than it is, you know, with the fringe flying at the at the arena and the performance, Michael Hingson  12:19 and again, like anything, it's a two way trust. So you both have to trust each other and learn to work together, which, which is so important. And I wish more people would recognize that with their pets, that that's what it's really about, and it's about developing a deeper, true trusting relationship than most of us realize. Speaker 1  12:38 Yep, that is right. And I've actually, I've actually got a little rodeo dog that I take with me too, and he's part of the family as much as any of the horses, but I don't know that I have near the trust in him to run off or to take care of me if he's awfully so I really admire that the dogs and the work that you do with That's really incredible. Michael Hingson  13:03 Well. So you, you went to college, right? Yes, yep. Where did you go and what did you study? Speaker 1  13:12 I went to South Dakota State, and that was part of the military. When I joined, they would pay tuition anywhere in the state that I wanted to go. So that's the college that I decided on, and I actually got a partial scholarship for the equestrian program there as well. But I ended up studying political science, and that was part of my military journey as well. I was in intelligence, so I was most interested in foreign policy and and things like that, kind of in that Intel Avenue. Michael Hingson  13:47 I was wondering what got you into the military, so that that kind of led you into then working and being a part of the military for a while? Speaker 1  13:57 Yeah, I think the main draw for the military, to me was to get out of the small town that I grew up in and get to see the world. And I didn't really know what career field I should go in. That was kind of by chance, but it ended up totally changing my life, and it's been a part of my life since then, and I'm really glad that that happened for me, because I had no idea what Intel meant. And I really didn't know a fighter yet, from an aircraft carrier, from anything. I just had no clue when I went in. So it was totally eye opening experience, but I ended up being very fortunate in finding a job that I actually do like. Michael Hingson  14:37 So what attracted you to intelligence and how did, how did you use that? How did it change your life? Speaker 1  14:45 Well, they had a signing bonus, which was very significant, especially at an at an age of 18, to get college paid for and have that sign on bonuses put you so far ahead of most of your peers. Financially, that that was truly what, what drew me to it, and my as that scores were high enough where I did qualify. And I think that's one of the reasons why that career field was so scarce, because it is tough to get into. The training is very long, and a lot of people don't, don't end up being good at it, even if they do qualify. So they're always looking for people who are going to be able to progress and stay in the career field a long time. But I ended up, you know, doing nine years in the military as an intel analyst, which is very interesting to me, and then I got out to Rodeo, but ended up coming back to do surveillance and reconnaissance, which is right underneath that Intel umbrella. And then any of the jobs that I would find here, you know, in the US would be right underneath that too. And an Intel is such a huge career field. There's so many different ways you can go with it. One of the things I'm looking at now is human trafficking in Oklahoma, which I didn't realize was, you know, such a big problem, or a big department, but the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics has several intel analyst positions to just battle the human trafficking that's happening here, which I thought was very interesting. But so Michael Hingson  16:14 what makes a person really good at Intel? You said you were good at it. There are a lot of people who may qualify, but they're not really good. What does that mean? Speaker 1  16:23 Yeah, well, I think you have to have a natural ability to make decisions without all of the information, to excel in intelligence that and being able to speak in front of you, know, your commander or a unit and talk about what you think and why based on just the information that's given is a unique thing for a lot of people, especially somebody who's younger. So I've always been comfortable in front of a crowd. I've done, you know, pageants, rodeo and things like that. So just the nature of being in front of a crowd isn't super intimidating to me. But once I learned, you know, the process, I wasn't afraid to study and once I would study enough, it gave me confidence to get up in front of people and make decisions. And I found it very rewarding once you get to actually see what those decisions mean, as far as the Intel cycle and the whole operation that's going on overseas. It's pretty cool to be a part of such a big thing. And and I really did enjoy that, and it keeps it super interesting, because the battlefield is ever changing and that the enemy is ever changing, and no operation is exactly the same. So just super dynamic, clear field well, actually, a lot of pressure and keep you awake. Michael Hingson  17:44 Yeah, fun. Well, I know we're all dealing with, of course, now, the whole issue of a war in Iran and all that that must, must be a really intelligence pressured situation, because there's so much that can happen and go wrong and and go right, but that must be a challenge. Speaker 1  18:05 Yeah. And it's funny, I'm not, not really involved anymore in intelligence, so I, I always do wonder, you know, what is the real picture? What are we really doing? What are we preparing for, and what's going on that the public hasn't found out about yet, yeah, but it has surprised me some of the things that have come out just because the the world that I grew up in the Internet didn't quite exist, and I was going through school and we never put anything online press wasn't, you know, even something we considered or talked about, Just wasn't, wasn't part of our world. So to see some of the capabilities that we're using to, like, find a down pilot, or to go in and knock out communications and electricity, that's crazy to me that they're able to talk about that on an unclassified network. But I think it also serves a purpose, just in, you know, a show of force. And there's always more to the story than is ever, you know, put on the news. So there's, there's actually a lot of analysis that everybody needs to do, just as far as where they get their news, and trying to determine what is actually the point, and what are we doing really, and what are some of the outcomes? It's just a very dynamic and uncertain world to dive into, Michael Hingson  19:24 yeah, because I'm sure all of that is true, and there's a lot that we don't know. And to put it this way, it'd be nice to be a fly on the wall and know some of those things, but at the same time, I also know why not everything is put out, and then that's fine there. There are things that that really shouldn't necessarily be disclosed. The other side of it is though, that people want to disclose, or they want everybody everything to be disclosed, and that just doesn't work all the time. Sometimes we really need to learn to respect silence. There's value in that. Speaker 1  20:01 Yeah, Yep, absolutely. And you can't give away all of your capabilities, or it changes the battlefield entirely. Just so not, yeah, you know, the rest of the world will be prepared to deal with deal with us, and I think should have an upper hand and keep our hearts kind of close to our chest. But at the end of the day, those decisions are so far out of my hands. And it's funny, even when I was, you know, actively working in a combat zone, they would usually only tell us just enough where you can succeed in your role. You didn't necessarily know the full picture or get to see outside of, you know, your little tunnel vision, but the people in charge, you know, you really had to have faith and trust in them, and what you're doing greater good and serves a purpose that we believe in and and it's interesting to think things back now on. You know, my earlier days in Intel, you just you have no idea what's going on truly, and how many different working pieces there are, and you're just doing your best to get this briefing out, but it's such a big, you know, wheelhouse, and there's so many parts, and it's a little overwhelming. Actually, they think they put 18 year olds out into that, and yeah, and expect them to thrive. Well, the other Michael Hingson  21:19 part of it is that just focusing on what you are are supposed to do probably makes a lot of sense, because you don't need to worry about everything so you so you were I didn't get the last of what you were saying. Speaker 1  21:36 I was saying that, you know, in your in your career field, you try to do the very best of the things that you can control, and you have to have a lot of faith in your team, the guy sitting next next to you, that they're going to also do their best. And you know, at the end of the day, you can't worry about the factors that you can't control, and that's something that's very challenging and in Intel to realize and to sit with, because there are so many dynamic moving pieces that it it will make you crazy if you try to read every single thing or know every single thing, and that kind of goes with rodeo too. You try to be as prepared as you can, but there's a lot you can't control. The more comfortable you can be in that the the better operator that you would be. Well, one of Michael Hingson  22:24 the mantras that I have lived by, especially since September 11, and have talked about on this podcast some, is that whole concept, don't worry about what you can't control. Focus on what you can. And one of the reasons that that's so important is especially for people who don't really know how to do this, well, if you just worry about everything in you, what if everything to death? You're going to create so much fear in your life, you won't really be able to cope with anything. And we all ought to learn to just focus on the things over which we really have control. That doesn't mean that we shouldn't be aware of other things, but we need to learn not to worry about them and only worry about the things over which we have control, because those are the things that will really be able to help you deal with any fear that you may have, and also deal with being able to control fear and not focus on stuff that doesn't make sense. Speaker 1  23:20 Yeah, I like that a lot, and it is sometimes easier said than done, but it is, Michael Hingson  23:29 well, it is, it is something that one can learn, however, how to do? You can learn to control, sir, you can learn to deal with just the things over which you have control and learn not to what if or not to what ifs in an emotional way, the things that you can't. I gave a speech a couple of years ago to the business continuity Institute, and business continuity as they just as the people who are in it describe it, they're the what if people. They're the ones that are always looking to analyze and consider what could happen to their business, or the business they work for that could cause it to crash or not succeed or or have a problem. And they're the ones that have to put in place the things that will allow a business to continue. So like with the wars over in in the Middle East and so on, businesses over there have to deal with finding ways to have business continuity, whether it's backing up computer data, other forms of communications, or whatever, and they've got business continuity people to help them do that. But the reality is that those business continuity people have been thinking about that for a while. The difference is they don't get emotionally involved, and they don't let it worry them, because all they can do is deal with what they can deal with, and they recognize that, and it's and it's really so important to focus on the things over which you really do have control, and the rest even, although you may be aware. But you need to learn to filter it out and not let it worry you, because that's just going to drive you crazy. And the reality is, like over 95% of the things we worry about will never happen, and there are things that we don't have any control over anyway. Speaker 1  25:15 That is very true. Yep, that is very true. Michael Hingson  25:20 So you, you eventually did get kind of out of the military, but you've built a lot of different life. You've been in the rodeo, military, real estate, involvement and author. What connects all of that? Speaker 1  25:37 Well, I think that, you know, I'm, I'm always interested in progressing and working towards something so if I feel like one avenue isn't isn't serving me anymore, I'm not afraid to pivot and try something new. And I think I just have the personality type where I want to, you know, live a meaningful life and create impact. And whether it's rodeo or real estate, I've always enjoyed giving back and sharing with you know people who are like me or people who are on a similar journey, some of the lessons that I had learned along the way to help them kind of skip through some steps with this class at all possible, but I know when I really made the most progress. It was because of the thing, what I had around me, or a coach or a mentor, or some type of educational content that I got a hold of that really catapulted me, or at least got me into the state where I could find the answers. You know myself, but just having a an environment where it encourages you to do more, be more. That's something that you know, that you're called to, getting around the right people can make a huge difference. Then I think it's it's fun to pursue different things that we're interested in, whether it's career related or just something because you love it, like rodeo. I don't know that I'll ever be just a full time cowgirl again, but I love it so much that I've found a way to make it part of my life. And I think that's important for people to know too, because a lot of people their passion isn't, maybe going to make them money, and they may not be able to pay the bills doing this, but that doesn't mean that you can't, you know, fill your life with things that you enjoy. And so it's been a difficult, you know, balance, to try to figure out how it's all going to work together, but, but I really do enjoy different different facets in different areas, and I feel like if I had more time, I would pick up even more hobbies, but really maxed out with what we've got going on currently. Michael Hingson  27:39 How did Mrs. Oklahoma come into it? Speaker 1  27:43 Well, I grew up doing rodeo Queen pageant, and it was actually one of the things I wrote about in my book, because it was the first time I really faced, you know, loss and judgment and the feeling of you just aren't good enough, and there are no other options, was to compete at Miss Troy to America and to not win. And I had set my sights and my goals on that since I was just a little girl. And it's unique in the rodeo world, because you only get to try one time, and there's no other organizations. There's no other options, actually. So it's just heartbreaking to realize that that dream is, you know, that dream is put to bed, and to figure out what's next ended up led it led to, you know, other pageant systems and other ways to give back and make a difference. And having been Miss Rodeo, you know, I know that with the crown and with that visibility is a huge avenue to make a difference. It gets you in a lot of the right rooms. It gives you credibility, and it it allows you, you know, the connection and the support to do whatever it is that you are passionate about, and more so in the pageant world than the rodeo world, because the rodeo world, your job is to represent Professional Rodeo for for that sport and to advocate for that organization. But in the pageant world, you can pick, you can actually go after whatever platform means the most to you, and the year is yours to do with it what you will. And so with my book coming out, it just seemed like an easy no brainer to kind of combine the two, and it's allowed me to go to different schools and speak, to get on different podcasts, and it's been a really great combo. So the book that I've written will be, you know, further than just this year, but Mrs. Oklahoma City is a year long title, and I'll get to get go compete for Mrs. Oklahoma here in about two months. Michael Hingson  29:40 Wow. Well, that'll be, that'll be kind of fun. Do you? Obviously, you enjoy the pageant world some Speaker 1  29:48 I do. And actually, even if you don't end up winning the ultimate title, it's so fun to be around like minded women that are, you know, similar in age, or also live in your. State, because those are the people that I really enjoy collaborating with, connecting with, and end up being lifelong friends with. I remember, you know, when I was Miss Rodeo, I was like 2013 I want to say so it's been several years ago, but the girls that I served with that year are actually some of my best friends this day, and I don't know that we ever would have crossed paths otherwise, but to get in a room with other high achievers that have similar interests, that is actually that is worth it, in my eyes, even if you don't take home the actual crown. So it's fun, and I love it, and it just seems like a really good fit, and I'm glad that they don't put age limits on it across the board, because I'm married now, I'm I'm definitely older than, you know, winning as a teenager or even early 20s. So it's fun to get to do it at this stage. And I actually think it's more beneficial, because they have a lot more to say now and have a lot more lessons and that I've learned a little bit more perspective and just a an overall better package, I think, Michael Hingson  31:03 is there a lot of politics in those contests or or do you there is? Speaker 1  31:09 Yeah, yes, there definitely is. And it just depends, you know, what system and honestly, what year, and that's what drew me to barrel racing, because it's no one's opinion. It is against the clock. There's, there's not a lot of room for excuses. You're either the fastest that day or you're not. So I do love bear racing for that reason, but I also love what pageants bring. So I'm still active in both, but there are definite pros and cons. Michael Hingson  31:41 Do they measure the time in barrel racing? And she did us down to hundredths of a second with with all the movements of the animals. How do they measure the time so accurately? Speaker 1  31:52 Well, there's an electric eye that senses when the horse's nose crosses it, so that starts to clock digitally. So there is no room for error. So it used to be a flag, and a judge would stand at the line and try to accurately throw the flag down, and then the timer would stop by a secretary holding a clock in their hand. But the competition has just gotten so close that even to do that would be so inaccurate. So the electric eye is is awesome, and they've got so much technology now that they can even overlay your run with with the winner and see where they were faster. Maybe it's around the first world, maybe it's around second, and segment it down so you can break up, you know, your time to first, or your time to second, and see, you know, really, where you where you need to make improvements, or where you got beat, and it's ever so polite, I mean, just a little hesitation and you're out. Michael Hingson  32:47 Yeah, fascinating. It's, it's interesting. And I've never attended a rodeo. I know it's a lot more visual than probably typically I am used to, but it would be fun to, you know, to do it one of these days, so we'll have to come and watch you in Oklahoma. Speaker 1  33:04 Yeah, absolutely. And a lot of times the announcers do such a good job at explaining it, because they never know exactly what the crowd is. So they always do a good job of explaining exactly what's going on in the arena and like, what the penalties might be, or who this cowgirl is. That is enjoyable to listen to as well, cool. Michael Hingson  33:24 Well, so you, you are married. We, you talked a little bit about that, and your husband and you met in Afghanistan. Tell me about that. We did Speaker 1  33:34 romantic city of Bagram. There you are. Yeah, we, we both did the same job as contractors, but my husband was actually one of the guys who would be on the ground doing more of the hands on part of the operation, so it was cool to get to fly with him eventually, because he had, he had a lot to teach me, and I definitely became a student of his, and asked a lot of questions, and we really connected in in the sky, and with the platform that I was on, we would be up there for several hours, and that environment is secure, so you can't have you know your phone or music or movies or things like that, so you really just have your crew to talk to, and it was just him and I Really and we got to know each other for, you know, several months with no distractions of the civilian world, no, you know, makeup or horses or social media. So I just felt like our connection was so raw and honest that, you know, we just it was pretty simple. And the day that we met, we pretty much became best friends and inseparable system. So it's fun for him to get to come to Oklahoma and see a lot more about my background once we got out of Afghanistan. Jimmy definitely come from different different upbringings. He grew up in the city, and hadn't really been on a horse or even around horses until he met me, but. But now he, you know, he's got some booths and drop there. It's funny to see the the change. But yeah, we, we both bring different things to the table, but found a lot of similarities and ended up both really enjoying real estate. And now what we do full time is flip and renovate houses here in Oklahoma. So that's just very busy. Michael Hingson  35:22 How long have you been married? Speaker 1  35:24 We've been married for three years, and we've been flipping full time for one year. And I will say that if you are ever trying to test your marriage, just go ahead and buy a house together and see if you can renovate it, because it is a lot of collaboration and uncertainty and problem solving honestly at the end of the day, and a lot of hard work, but it's ended up bringing us a whole lot closer, because we've been able to see some of the fruits of our labor and make some really great deals happen. And we love it, just in that we can kind of control our schedule and get to be home all the time. So we're we're definitely going to keep going on the real estate path. Michael Hingson  36:06 My wife and I were married for 40 years before she passed in November of 2022 and we bought over our lifetime, several houses. We were pretty we were pretty aligned on all of that. And one of the things about Karen is that she was in a wheelchair her whole life, so a lot of what we did was based around either finding a house that we could modify to be accessible for her, or what we liked better was when we could find property and build a house. Because if you build a house, oh, okay, and you make the house accessible as you're building it. It doesn't cost anything to do that. You design in lower counters, you design wider doors, you design level entryways and so on. Whereas, if you buy a house and then you modify it, it costs hundreds of 1000s of dollars. But we had a couple of times where we knew we were going to be in an area where we couldn't find property to build a home, and when it came down to looking with real estate agents to find a home that we could modify, the problem is with some of them, if they just didn't get it, they took us to a house and we said, this is why this won't work. This is why that won't work. And then the next house they took us to was the same thing. And they said, Well, this is different. Well, no, it's not. It's the same thing. And so yeah, it does get to be a challenge come Speaker 1  37:34 by honestly, and it's such a big market, everybody's real to these days or knows somebody, but it is definitely a skill to to have a good realtor on your side and and we've definitely learned that through selling, selling different houses, because, yeah, lots of different ones, and definitely know how to appreciate a good one, Michael Hingson  37:54 yeah, and we were, you know, sometimes it took a little effort, but we were able to find good Realtors eventually, that we could, that we could work with. And then, you're right, they're such a blessing, we had to go through some bad one, not bad ones, but just lack of perceptive I won't say they're bad, because they probably did all right, but they they didn't get what we needed. But we learned a lot and and had a lot of fun. So we were pretty aligned on what we we needed in a house, because a lot of it was based on accessibility for Karen, because for me, it's not as magical kind of thing. But by the same token, we we learned a lot, and it worked well. But when we could build a house like this home I'm in now, we built in 2016 we moved down to Southern California in 2014 and lived in an apartment for almost two and a half years, and we were it wasn't overly accessible, but it was accessible enough for Karen to be able to do most things in it, but we were waiting to get a construction loan, and then we got it. And by June or July of 2016 they started building or working on the house. Maybe it was like May of 2016 and I remember one day, I think it was in July, we came over from the apartment, and we're watching as they put the big trusses up on the where the roof, for the roof, all the big beams and all that. We just kind of watched that for a while, but they did make it accessible, and that's what we needed, which was cool. Speaker 1  39:37 Well, good, yeah, that's such a feat to do all of that, and I've definitely gained some appreciation for contractors and people who work in the houses and on the houses, because it is such a fun experience for every homeowner, but to be new in it, there's just so much to learn. Yeah, it's a huge, huge world and a huge undertaking. Earn to build, for sure, but even to own a home and and it is fun and very rewarding when we get to, you know, make somebody's dream homes come to life, or to be able to do the deal with them and help them along their journey. And I think even if you're not, you know, innately interested in real estate, it is something that everybody should consider, because you do have to have some somewhere to live for your whole life. So to learn about it and to make a proactive decision, rather than kind of reactive, is is fun. And I like sharing our real estate journey with people from like rodeo world or the military world, because, you know, they end up, you know, thinking maybe this is something I'd like to do or learn more about, when initially they just probably thought, you know, I'll just rent and see how it goes. But there's a lot of value in buying early. And especially in the military, there's some cool programs that can really help, help the service members out and get into a house. Michael Hingson  40:56 Yeah, well, for you, being in the rodeo world, and I would think in the military and intelligence and so on, you have had a lot of issues dealing with pressure and identity and resilience and so on. What have you learned from these different kinds of environments that you've been in that really helps you do better at coping with pressure and being more resilient? Speaker 1  41:22 Well, the military is definitely a great teacher for a lot of those things. And that was kind of the first time that I had to ask myself, you know, who are you? Who are you without the military? And for a long time, I thought that was a barrel racer, until that was taken and then I was forced to look a little bit deeper and figure out, you know, what makes me happy, what makes me sick? What do I want with my life? Where would I like to live? Things like that? And I realized that a lot of it wasn't tangible. It's not necessarily the things that you have, but more than things you're surrounded with, and how you feel on a daily basis. And for me, it always ended up being with horses and connecting with animals and being out in nature and having a little bit of land and kind of getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. But it took, you know, it took several years to learn that about myself and and I had to, you know, really see the world and try out a lot of different roles before I I kind of feel like I figured I figured myself out. I got to know myself a little bit better, but pivoting and getting that identity taken away from you that you you really just resonate with, like I'm a military member or I'm a professional cowgirl, to take that away can be life changing, and it can be very shocking for people emotionally, and lead to a lot of depression or questions and and the thing that the military, you know, teaches us all the time, and I didn't realize that without some reflection, but is is to shift flexibility. Is that the key to air power and something doesn't work out. That doesn't mean that you failed, and it doesn't mean that you need to quit. You just got to readjust, re attack, get a better plan and continue on. So I know the military teaches that without people realizing it, but it that is a lifelong skill, and it's a skill for people who aren't even in the military to take off on and to and to practice, because you can use it so many times throughout your life, and it's in different scenarios too, but, but for me, the the craziest thing ever was to think that I'm no longer in the military, or I'm no longer a barrel racer, and to ask just who are you? Who are you really? What makes you happy? Have you Michael Hingson  43:41 ever had a time where you kind of really hit rock bottom and what did, how did that all go? Speaker 1  43:46 Yeah, yes, I definitely have, and I go into a lot of detail about it in my first book, but it was, you know, when I ended up quitting the military or getting out to pursue pro radio I thought that was my fairy tale ending. I thought that was my Cinderella story. I thought that, you know, this was the time that I was going to make it, but instead, I ended up spending all of my money over leveraging my assets and totally going broke, and my horse ended up getting hurt. So it was, to me, it was devastating in a lot of ways, and I felt like I didn't have any options. And you know, when that state is so hard to see past this year or this hurdle or this, you know, difficulty, but what I did was to go back to Afghanistan, to go back to the work that I know that I was good at, that actually does pay and give it all up. I basically had to strip away everything that I loved about my life and kind of start over. And the the main thing that helped me was that stability of a long term job where, you know, in the military, they. Take a lot of care of you. They give you a bed, they give you food, they give you a job and a paycheck. And it might not be the most glamorous or most fun thing, and there's, you know, there's definitely some sacrifice that goes into deploying long term. I think I was there initially for about a year, and that was really hard for me to do, but it gave me that stability and the time and the space to just start over and think about what, what exactly I wanted to do with my life and where we could go from here. And I felt like I truly, you know, was at my lost bottom. I felt like I didn't have a purpose anymore or or anything to strive for. But that wasn't the case at all. And so it was a good experience looking back. What do you want to go through again? And I would hope you know, others can pick themselves up quicker than I was able to. But yeah, that's a definite lesson that I wanted to share with others. And I know a lot of people feel that to some degree when they go through major life changes, and that's a lot of about what my book is based on, and definitely the first one that is titled not enough, or just that feeling that you failed and that you're not good enough, when maybe you know your whole world is is crumbling, but, but there is a way forward. There is a path, and there's different tools you can use and you can get back up again, Michael Hingson  46:25 but you talk about not enough a lot. Where did that belief first show up in your life? Speaker 1  46:32 Well, I think it was ingrained, honestly, at an early age, and maybe people don't realize it, but the feelings of lack and obscurity, you know, you pick up throughout your lifetime. And for me, it just be, got became too heavy to even hold, and I just completely broke down. But I think that you know, whether it's a teacher that tells you, you know you're not, you're not a smart kid. You know, spelling isn't your thing, math isn't your thing. They kind of plant these little seeds of doubt along our lives. And maybe it's a parent, or maybe it's a friend or, you know, a lot of people go through a lot of trauma when they break up with a loved one or a partner, especially for the first time, and they start to maybe believe those things that they're being told, or they let the doubt get louder than their self confidence and their self worth and and for me, it it just slowly chipped away little by little until it just was all that I knew, and I ended up just totally believing that, yeah, I don't. I don't deserve to be out rodeoing. I I don't have any worth. There's nothing that I bring to the table, you know, I just completely shut down and felt just totally not enough and and that's not the case. And even if you feel like that, you know, there, the sun will shine again if you allow it. And it's a mental cage that I think we build for ourselves, but just kind of facing that and realizing, well, you're not alone in those thoughts, and that even some of the great, even some of the best athletes you'll ever follow, or some of the people on social media will just look like they have it all together, that their life is perfect. You know, we all have our ups and downs, and we all have battles and struggles, and not everybody shows that, and that's kind of the thing I didn't realize when I had first gotten to that place, is that I thought maybe I was alone or my story was somehow the worst. And that's totally not the case. And there's different things you can do to kind of pull yourself out of that mental state, but but definitely being open to learning from others, and collaborating and honestly giving back. And those are some of the things that I that I talk about in my book, that that helped me, but I maybe didn't realize it at the time, but looking back now, I can definitely say point to a couple of different things, but that definitely Michael Hingson  48:58 helped to turn it around. Yep, yeah. So you said your first book. Have you written other books since Speaker 1  49:07 I have. I've actually written four, and part of the reason I wrote four was because I was writing for several years. I think it was seven years ago that I had the concept for the book, and I wanted it to be a four part book, but it just got so big that it turned into four different books. So the first one is not enough. Had enough, am enough, and then never enough was the last one. And they all kind of talk about different different things, but the central theme is similar throughout all of them. So you can definitely enjoy each book individually, but it is more fun, I think, to read the series, and I really do think they get better as I go. I'm excited for the first one, but I'm the most excited for the last one, and they are all written, and I plan to release them one month. In between. So I just want to get it out into the world and get it off my desk, because it's been here for seven years. Michael Hingson  50:06 So not enough is released. Speaker 1  50:09 It will be released April 23 and then a month after that will be the second, and then a month, and then another month, and then they'll all be out. Wow. Michael Hingson  50:18 Well, congratulations. Are you self publishing, or are you self publishing? Or do you have a publisher? Speaker 1  50:25 I'm doing a hybrid publish, okay? And I looked at a couple different options. I wasn't sure which way to go, and it's certainly overwhelming as the first time author, but I thought, you know, I definitely could use some help as far as the admin side goes, or future, everything's set up correctly, but I know I do have an audience that wants to hear my story and maybe wonders where I went, as far as Pro rodeoing, or what happened to my horse, really, when he got hurt. And hopefully picked up a few new listeners too that haven't been with me as long. But yeah, think that that it'll be a good combo to just do a hybrid model. Michael Hingson  51:06 So how is your horse? Speaker 1  51:09 Well, I still have him. That was one of the things that I refused to do, was basically sell out, even though, you know, I had, I had trained him. He was worth a lot at the height of his career, and I turned down a lot of money for him just because I feel like I owe him my my life, my career, and a lot of my happiness. So he will always have a place in my pasture, but he will never probably be sound enough to run consistently again. He had a what's called navicular and easiest way to describe that is basically the really small bone in his foot. Kind of looks like Swiss cheese. And on the edges of the bone, it kind of sticks out, and the more that he uses it, it kind of severs a really important tendon in his leg, so as he runs more or strains himself too hard to get sore, and so he's just gonna stay at my house and ease around, eat a lot of hay, keep the others alive. Michael Hingson  52:10 Do you ride him every so often? Speaker 1  52:12 I don't, just because I don't want to put any pressure. Yeah. Pressure on his foot. Yeah? But I do what's called Liberty with him. So it's where he doesn't have any halter or saddle or anything on, and I'm also on the ground, and we just work together. You take a walk around, and as fast as he would want to go, yep, take a walk. Yeah. Injury is kind of in his front feet. He likes to come up off the ground. So I'm working on teaching him to rare up. Michael Hingson  52:45 Well, there you go. That's that's cool. How many horses do you have? 52:50 I have five with one on the way. Michael Hingson  52:53 Well, there you go. Now, is your husband in the rodeo circuit as well? Speaker 1  52:58 Anywhere? Definitely not okay to ride, if he can help it, but he is really handy, and can do everything that I would need to take care of him, but he prefers to be inside a car with a lot more horsepower. Michael Hingson  53:17 Um, well, maybe you'll still convert convert him at some point to be a little bit more horse oriented. Yeah. Well, you see, you say that most people tend to operate from the wrong identity. What do you mean by that? And how did you shift out of it, whatever it is? Speaker 1  53:35 Well, I think growing up, you get this idea of who you are and associate it with a label, and for most people, it's what their profession is. And so it's really jarring when you take that away and just operating from a place of tangible assets or a job that you do that actually isn't who you are, it is what you do, but to look a little bit deeper and figure out what makes you you is kind of the theme of the identity first framework. And I think that you know it becomes evident later on in life if you if you try to figure that out. But I think a lot of people are unhappy, and they realize that maybe in a job that they don't like and they realize they've done it for 20 years. Or, you know, they they wake up with a partner that isn't serving them, or they're just unhappy. And I think a lot of it has to do with their identity and realizing that they are enough. You know, in this job without, this job, with this partner or without, and the thing that makes you you actually can't be taken away only if you let it. And it's just building that mental you know, resilience and confidence to understand that no matter what setback you're looking at, you can rise again, because nobody is going to define you by some. Seems silly, like a like a job or even a title beside your name. You're much more than that, much deeper than that. And the passion the things that make you happy, taste those things and figure out a way to put those in your life consistently and to progress towards those things, is what I've found makes me the most fulfilled in my day to day. Michael Hingson  55:22 You've talked about coaching and mentoring, and you clearly value that. Why is trying to do stuff alone not a good idea? Speaker 1  55:33 Well, you don't have to spend so much time figuring things out the hard way. You can actually just find somebody who's been down that path before and take their advice and go where they where they point you. And I think it's really undervalued, but the people who aren't quite there yet, but they're a few steps ahead of where you are, those are the most valuable teachers to me, because they remember that struggle that you're experiencing, you know right now, they remember what it's like, and they have that next step, or however they figured it out, they've got it in their back pocket now, and it's not, it's not really something that that you need to pay for. There's a lot of mentors that are in your community or in your network, or they should be that you can reach out to. And I think a lot of people you know, when they're not taught to be a coach, they don't feel like they should be and but I've found so much value in giving back when I'm not the expert yet, but I can tell you how I've gotten to where I am, because I just loved it and and those are the people that I want to encourage to reach back and to mentor and to help. And I've found it very fulfilling to be able to help somebody else. It's not too much skin off my back to help you out, because I I know how to do it, but it can make a world of difference for somebody who's struggling, or somebody who wants to get where you are, and I think we're oftentimes too humble to think that. You know people do look up to you, even if you haven't made it yet, even if you're not entirely where you want to be. There are people who look to you as someone they want to be like and to reach back for them and send the elevator back down. That makes life so much more fulfilling. Michael Hingson  57:22 Well, so you you do real estate, you flip houses and so on. Do you also coach? Can people hire you as a coach? Speaker 1  57:30 Well, I'm working on building my coaching leg of my website. I do have some coaching options more in the horse space, but my husband and I have learned so much about real estate that we are always available through, you know, email or DM. We don't have an official program yet, but we would like to move towards that. But we are absolutely involved in different coaching programs in real estate. If you're interested at all, we can show you where, where we've learned, and you can also just reach out to us for some tips and tricks too. We'd love to connect. We'd love to help, help you. If you're interested in some of the same things that we are doing. Michael Hingson  58:07 Me, I'll be interested when I find out that your husband rides a horse and is in the rodeo business. Speaker 1  58:14 You made me wait in a while. I don't know if I know. I know, yeah, funny that the last time you rode a horse, I was busy trying to take a picture of him, and his horse ended up laying down in a lake. I could have seen it coming if I was paying better attention, but I was trying to take his picture so he had a couple boots full of water and a ruined cell phone. So I don't know if we're going to get it back on anytime soon, but I promise to pay better attention of the day. Michael Hingson  58:45 Stay away from the water. It's one effort. What do you say to people who say, Well, I'm too old to change direction and do things differently? Speaker 1  58:58 Well, I would say that's a really poor attitude, because there's so many examples around us of people who have succeeded when they only started at 45 or, you know, 60. And it just depends what industry you're in as to who you can can look to to be an example. But even if you don't have an example, why not you? And I think the biggest key to success is putting the right people and mentors in place to ensure that the path you're on is correct and kind of help you over some of those hurdles. But no matter what it is you you're still able to pivot and go in that direction and find a way to make it a part of your life, even if that might have to change just a little bit, like in the rodeo world, you can, you can still have horses. So you're, you're super old, like, I think the oldest gal to make it to the finals was 62 or 64 so don't be intimidated. There's always somebody a little bit older and a little bit busier. Than you that's making it happen. So don't be afraid to think you know, why not you and just go after, go after the dreams. Because if you don't even try, you're definitely not going to get there. I think you'll find along the way that the progress you're going to make and the friends you make along that journey is actually what you're after anyway, not necessarily the goal of the buckle or winning the rodeo, but to train a great horse or to meet some people along the way that you're gonna be lifelong friends with, that's the that's the stuff that I'm that I'm chasing. And I definitely have realized that over the last couple years, well, Michael Hingson  1:00:35 if somebody says to you, I really just feel stuck or I'm behind, what would you advise them to do. It sort of relates to what you just said, but still fair question to ask. Speaker 1  1:00:46 Yeah, I would say you've got to change your state, and that may look different, just depending on the person, but if you can get in an environment where you feel a little bit more empowered, you feel a little more optimistic, then you can start finding the answers for yourself. And it may be to go to a seminar to you know, go to a meetup, get around other high achievers that are doing what you want to do, or it may just be calling a friend who's uplifting, who asks you the right questions and provokes you to really explore a little bit deeper in your mind as to, what is it that is causing you to shut down, like, what is it truly? What are you afraid of? Is it, you know, judgment by others? Is that why you don't want to try or or, what are you what are you truly scared of? And to face that head on, and to put a name on it, a lot of times, you realize it's not so scary and not the end all, be all, and to just kind of work, work through it one day at a time, just don't, don't expect to go zero to 100 overnight. There's a lot to be said for showing up consistently and just making incremental progress over time. A lot of people are so impatient and they want it all right now, or they're comparing their year one to somebody else's year 20. But just realizing, you know, in the beginning you're you're not going to be very good at whatever it is, and that's expected, that's okay, but just showing up every day for several years, you're going to pass a lot of people, because there's just so much impatience these days, the way the internet, you know, advertises and hustle culture we've got, I think there's a lot of under appreciation for commitment and hard work and just putting in the time, Michael Hingson  1:02:41 if people want to reach out to you, how can they do that? Speaker 1  1:02:46 You can find me on any platform by just clicking my full name, Jenna Renee Soto, and that's my email as well. Jenna Renee Soto, at Gmail and also my website, just to play safe. Michael Hingson  1:02:59 Can you spell all that? Jenna Renee Speaker 1  1:03:00 Soto, sure it's j, e n, n, a Renee R, E N, E, Soto, s, O, P, O, okay. Michael Hingson  1:03:11 So Jenna Renee soto@gmail.com or on any of the platforms like LinkedIn and and so on, yep. Well, I want to thank you for being here. This has been a lot of fun. We've been doing this for over an hour. Can you believe it? Speaker 1  1:03:25 Oh, excellent. No. That actually flew by. Michael Hingson  1:03:28 It did well. I want to thank you, and I want to thank all of you for being out there and listening and watching the podcast. Love to hear from you. Please feel free to email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com, that's S, P, E, A, K, E, R, at, m, I C, H, A, E, L, H, I N, G, s, O, n.com, love it

On this episode we're diving into the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Inevitably that conversation involves a little bit of drone technology talk, but we focus mostly on the human demands of this kind of warfare. When every single piece of equipment, food, etc. has to travel the last several miles on foot, what does that require of the individual soldier? When there is near constant visual and thermal surveillance, how do operations have to adapt? We break down all that and more, with some time saved at the end to talk about the ACFT implementation, since our guest played a key role in that as well. Major General Kline graduated from Shippensburg University, Pennsylvania in 1992 and was commissioned as a Field Artillery officer where he served three years as a Fire Support Officer and later a MLRS platoon leader before transferring to the Aviation branch until his promotion to Major General.Major General Kline commanded tactical aviation units at the company, battalion, and brigade levels. His aviation command assignments include A Company, 5th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment in Germany; 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment (Task Force Eagle Assault) in Fort Campbell, Kentucky and the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade located at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia. In combat, Major General Kline served as the Executive Officer for 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment in Tikrit, Iraq from 2005-2006; Deputy Brigade Commander for 101st Combat Aviation Brigade in Bagram, Afghanistan in 2008; Battalion Commander of 5th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment at FOB Wolverine near Qalat, Afghanistan from 2010-2011; and Commander of Task Force Forge in Helmand, Afghanistan from 2015-2016. Uniquely, he also represented the United States in direct communication with the Taliban Political Commission (TPC) in Doha, Qatar in 2021. Specific to this podcast, he was Alex's commander at CIMT as his final command, overseeing the implementation of the ACFT and H2F. After leaving command but before retiring, he was the Army lead for the Ukraine/Russia Lessons study focused on capturing the lessons from that conflict, which is what we'll be focusing most of today's conversation on.

  This episode of WarDocs features Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Dr. Charisma Evangelista, the Air Force's leading voice on refractive surgery and an expert in ocular trauma. The conversation begins with her upbringing in the Philippines and her unique path to military medicine, driven by a desire for service and the supportive, collaborative culture she found at the Uniformed Services University. Dr. Evangelista explains her transition from a prospective general surgeon to an ophthalmologist, highlighting the precision of microscopic surgery and the profound impact of sight restoration. She provides a detailed look at the "shield and ship" protocol for managing ruptured globes in combat environments, emphasizing the critical importance of preventing further injury at the point of care.    Dr. Evangelista also shares her experiences as the sole ophthalmologist deployed to Bagram, Afghanistan, where she managed severe, multi-system trauma cases while navigating limited resources. A pivotal moment in the interview occurs when she describes her own experience as a patient; she suffered a retinal detachment while performing surgery, an event that deepened her empathy for those facing vision loss and shaped her leadership style. Currently serving as the Refractive Surgery Consultant to the Air Force Surgeon General, she discusses the technological advancements in corneal collagen cross-linking and refractive standards that maintain pilot and warfighter readiness.    The episode concludes with her leadership philosophy of trust, empathy, and perseverance, alongside her advice for the next generation of military physicians. This comprehensive discussion highlights the technical expertise, emotional resilience, and deep compassion required to protect the vision of the American warfighter, offering listeners an inspiring look at the intersection of high-stakes surgery and humanitarian service. Chapters   (00:00-01:11) Introduction of Lt Col Charisma Evangelista, MD (01:12-05:13) Foundations in Medicine and the Choice of Ophthalmology (05:14-09:32) Specialized Training and Combat Deployment to Afghanistan (09:33-17:00) Ocular Trauma Protocols and Innovations in Refractive Surgery (17:01-22:35) Personal Resilience as a Patient and Leadership Philosophy (22:36-27:10) Advice for Future Medics and Defining a Military Hero Chapter Summaries   (00:00-01:11) Introduction of Lt Col Charisma Evangelista, MD: The episode opens with a tribute to the delicate nature of eye surgery in combat. Host Dr. Doug Soderdahl introduces Dr. Charisma Evangelista as a deeply compassionate healer and a leading expert in military ophthalmology and refractive surgery standards. (01:12-05:13) Foundations in Medicine and the Choice of Ophthalmology: Dr. Evangelista shares her journey from a small town in the Philippines to the Uniformed Services University, highlighting the family-oriented culture of military medical training. She discusses her transition from general surgery to ophthalmology, sparked by a love for microscopic precision and the collaborative nature of the specialty. (05:14-09:32) Specialized Training and Combat Deployment to Afghanistan: The discussion follows Dr. Evangelista through her prestigious civilian fellowship and her subsequent deployment to Bagram Airfield. She details the challenges of serving as the sole ophthalmologist in a combat theater, managing severe ocular trauma and multi-system injuries with limited resources. (09:33-17:00) Ocular Trauma Protocols and Innovations in Refractive Surgery: This section focuses on the "shield and ship" protocol for point-of-injury care and the rewarding outcomes of sight-restoring surgeries. Dr. Evangelista also explains her role as a consultant for the Air Force Surgeon General, detailing how advancements like corneal collagen cross-linking keep service members mission-ready. (17:01-22:35) Personal Resilience as a Patient and Leadership Philosophy: Dr. Evangelista provides a moving account of her own retinal detachment and the traumatic recovery process that followed. She explains how being a patient informed her leadership at the Department of Defense's largest eye center, prioritizing trust, empathy, and perseverance. (22:36-27:10) Advice for Future Medics and Defining a Military Hero: In the final segment, Dr. Evangelista offers encouragement to pre-med and medical students, emphasizing the unique opportunities for growth in military medicine. She reflects on her "Hero of Military Medicine" recognition and her desire to leave a legacy of inspiration and compassionate service. Take Home Messages Protecting the Ruptured Globe: In cases of severe ocular trauma, the most critical step for non-specialists is the "shield and ship" protocol, which involves placing a hard, protective shield over the eye without applying any pressure to the globe. Preventing additional injury at the point of care is essential for giving specialists the best chance to restore a service member's vision. Refractive Surgery as a Readiness Multiplier: Laser vision correction and specialized treatments for conditions like keratoconus are more than elective procedures; they are essential for warfighter readiness. By reducing dependence on eyeglasses and stabilizing corneal conditions, military ophthalmologists ensure that pilots and ground troops can perform their duties with maximum agility and precision. Empathy through the Patient Experience: True compassion in medicine often stems from understanding the fear and uncertainty of the patient. Experiencing a serious medical crisis personally can transform a surgeon's perspective, allowing them to lead with greater empathy and build deeper trust with those under their care. The Collaborative Power of Military Medicine: The military medical system thrives on a culture that prioritizes collective success over individual competition. This foundation of unit cohesion ensures that physicians work together across specialties to provide the highest standard of care in both domestic hospitals and austere combat environments. Persistence in the Face of Adversity: Success in high-stakes fields like ophthalmology requires the ability to persevere through personal health crises, professional challenges, and the rigors of deployment. Growth and innovation often occur as a direct result of these struggles, making a leader more resilient and effective in their mission to serve.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Ophthalmology, Ocular Trauma, Eye Surgery, Refractive Surgery Standards, LASIK, PRK, K-LEX, Corneal Collagen Cross-linking, Keratoconus, Bagram Airfield, Combat Medic Training, Eye Injury Protocols, Shield and Ship, Retinal Detachment, Uniformed Services University, Air Force Surgeon General, Hero of Military Medicine, Surgical Leadership, Medical Humanitarian Missions, WarDocs Podcast, Dr. Charisma Evangelista, Sight Restoration, Combat Surgery, Military Healthcare. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #Ophthalmology, #CombatSurgery, #EyeHealth, #WarDocs, #AirForceMedicine, #RefractiveSurgery, #VeteransHealth   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

An American hero, seriously wounded, survives 36 hours in the Zagros Mountains while evading Iranian bounty hunters. The daring story of courage, resilience, and military skill unfolds as details emerge about the mission, the firefights, and the stakes involved.

    This episode of WarDocs features an in-depth conversation with LTG Mary K. Izaguirre, DO, the 46th Army Surgeon General and Commanding General of U.S. Army Medical Command. LTG Izaguirre shares her personal journey from a residency at Madigan Army Medical Center to serving in a tent in Bagram, Afghanistan, during the early stages of the war. She discusses how these early experiences shaped her understanding of the "why" behind military medicine: maintaining the trust of the American soldier by providing world-class care shoulder-to-shoulder on the battlefield. A central theme of the interview is the fundamental difference between civilian and military healthcare; while civilian systems often optimize for profit or specific health outcomes, military medicine must optimize for the mission, sometimes reprioritizing traditional medical metrics to ensure the Army remains effective in dangerous and dynamic environments.  The discussion also explores the evolving role of the Army Surgeon General as an "integrator," a position codified to synchronize medical capabilities across the entire Army and joint force. LTG Izaguirre highlights the 250-year heritage of the Army Medical Department and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, emphasizing that this history of overcoming "hard things" provides the foundation for today's leaders to tackle modern challenges. Looking toward the future, she identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool rather than a distant prospect, advocating for "human-machine teaming" to decrease cognitive loads and improve clinical decision-making for medics in the field. By combining these technological advancements with a flexible mindset and a commitment to people, LTG Izaguirre outlines a vision for an Army health system that is lethal, cohesive, and consistently ready to support the nation's heroes. Chapters (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care   Chapter Summaries (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine: LTG Izaguirre discusses her early interest in biology and how her path led from veterinary aspirations to human medicine within the U.S. Army. She explains how the Army's broad range of opportunities and scholarship programs provided a meaningful way to serve something bigger than herself. (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines: This chapter details LTG Izaguirre's deployment to Afghanistan in 2002 and how it shifted her focus from academics to the practical realities of operational medicine. She reflects on the critical "why" of her service: providing shoulder-to-shoulder support to maintain the faith and trust of the American soldier. (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage: LTG Izaguirre reflects on the 250-year history of Army Medicine and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps as sources of inspiration for today's challenges. She describes her role as an "integrator," tasked with synchronizing medical capabilities across the entire Army to support the joint force. (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System: The discussion focuses on how military medicine differs from civilian systems by optimizing specifically for the mission and operational outcomes. LTG Izaguirre emphasizes the need for a flexible mindset and curiosity as the Army undergoes significant structural changes to reflect the National Security Strategy. (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care: LTG Izaguirre identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool that can decrease cognitive loads and assist with clinical decision-making in austere environments. She concludes with a vision for the future of Army Medicine that focuses on vibrant training, strengthened partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the soldiers and civilians who serve.   Take Home Messages Optimizing for the Mission: The fundamental difference between military and civilian healthcare lies in what the system is optimized for: military medicine prioritizes mission readiness and operational outcomes over profit or standard health metrics. This may require reprioritizing certain medical strategies to ensure the soldier is best postured for the fight and the joint force remains effective. The Role of the Integrator: Modern medical leadership in the Army requires serving as an integrator who synchronizes capabilities across diverse commands and joint partners. This role extends beyond direct command and control to influence the entire Army health system, ensuring it is properly postured to support national defense strategies. The Power of Trust and Heritage: A 250-year heritage of overcoming difficult challenges provides the foundation for today's medical leaders to build trust within their communities and with the soldiers they serve. This trust is maintained by acting in ways consistent with the identity of both a soldier and a clinician, ensuring that the best possible care is always available on the battlefield. Human-Machine Teaming in Medicine: Artificial intelligence is a present-day tool that should be utilized through human-machine teaming to improve decision-making and reduce the mental burden on medical personnel. While technology can get a clinician to the starting line, human judgment and the "human voice" remain essential to successfully providing care in complex environments. Learning Through Listening: Effective leadership during periods of intense transformation requires being a good listener who is willing to hear difficult or differing perspectives. By understanding these viewpoints before attempting to "explain away" problems, leaders can foster curiosity and synchronization throughout their organizations.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Army Surgeon General, Lieutenant General Mary K. Izaguirre, WarDocs Podcast, Combat Casualty Care, Army Medicine History, Healthcare Transformation, Medical Leadership, AI in Medicine, Military Healthcare, Army Nurse Corps, Veteran Health, Bagram Afghanistan, Medical Residency, Physician Leadership, Integrated Healthcare, Medical Technology, Trauma Care, Clinical Decision Support, Human-Machine Teaming, Military Strategy, National Security Strategy, Healthcare Trust. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #ArmyMedicine, #Leadership, #WarDocs, #ArmySurgeon General, #MedicalInnovation, #HealthcareLeadership, #CombatMedic   LTG Izaguirre Biography Lieutenant General Izaguirre serves as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Medical Command. A career physician and leader, she previously commanded Medical Readiness Command, East, and Tripler Army Medical Center.  Commissioned in 1991, LTG Izaguirre earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is board-certified in Family Medicine with advanced degrees in Public Health, Military Arts, and National Security Strategy. Her distinguished service includes deployments to Iraq (4th Infantry Division) and Afghanistan, as well as key leadership roles at the Pentagon and various Army medical centers.   A recipient of the Army Distinguished Service Medal and the Bronze Star, LTG Izaguirre is also an Army Flight Surgeon and a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit. She remains dedicated to the health, readiness, and resilience of the Total Army Force   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

Pete Hegseth insists the Iran conflict is different from Iraq and Afghanistan, Israel strikes Lebanon after Hezbollah launches missiles, Donald Trump criticizes Keir Starmer over a delay in approving the use of U.K. military bases against Iran, Canada's Mark Carney meets with Narendra Modi, France announces plans to expand its nuclear arsenal and end warhead disclosure, at least 169 people are killed in an attack in South Sudan, a Pakistani airstrike on Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base is reportedly thwarted, the U.K. reduces the refugee protection period to 30 months, Anthropic's Claude AI suffers a major outage, and Brigid Kosgei wins the Tokyo Marathon in record time. Sources: Verity.News

Europeans have been sharply critical of President Trump for his insistence that U.S. security requires actual ownership of Greenland. Formerly Great Britain is, however, giving everyone an object lesson on why that's so. The UK's hard-left Prime Minister Keir Starmer is currently in Beijing negotiating a new “strategic partnership” with Communist China. Simultaneously, he's seeking parliamentary approval to surrender British sovereignty over – and, inevitably, U.S. use of – Diego Garcia, a strategically vital base in the Indian Ocean.  The Chinese would be the principal beneficiary of such a betrayal, and probably ultimately the inheritors of that base, as they were Afghanistan's Bagram. The President has rightly called Starmer's sellout on Diego Garcia an act of “great stupidity.” He must now inform the Brits that the United States formally rejects the deal and will take ownership of the island if they relinquish it.  This is Frank Gaffney.

In part 1 of a 3-part conversation on the fall of Afghanistan, Major Ian Wookey shares his first-hand account of the Afghanistan drawdown, from closing Kandahar Airfield to becoming the last Canadian on the ground.

Edward Ford and Alan Chiasson came to Afghanistan with long résumés in uniform and out. Ford was a Force Recon Marine with combat tours in the Gulf War, Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan before moving into high-end security contracting. Chiasson was a Navy Hospital Corpsman and Texas paramedic who'd spent years providing high-risk medical support on PSD and convoy details in Iraq and Afghanistan. When the private security firm SOC (Special Operations Consulting) expanded its mobile operations in Afghanistan, both men ended up on armored Ford F-550 gun trucks running some of the most dangerous roads in the country. At first, their teams hauled critical supplies—ammo, fuel, food, equipment—to isolated Special Forces sites and small outposts the regular military couldn't cover. Then SOC picked up the Department of Defense contract to move something that sounded almost ordinary: the mail. Ford, Chiasson, and their teammates suddenly became the unofficial “Pony Express” of Afghanistan, hauling letters and care packages from Kabul and Bagram along the notorious Ring Road to places like Ghazni, Sharana, Orgun-E, and tiny dirt compounds with nothing but Hesco walls and a few tents. Troops took the mail for granted; few ever thought about the chain of convoys and gun trucks that got a letter from a stateside mailbox to a cot in Kandahar. Postcards Through Hell tells that story from the inside. The “Pony Express” ran four teams in a three-on, one-off rotation so three could be on the road at any time. One team took the long hauls, another ran the shorter Kabul ring route while standing QRF, and a third trained, refit, and got ready to swap in. A “good” day might mean an 18-hour, thousand-kilometer push with no major incidents—what they jokingly called the “Thousand Kilometer Club.” Most days weren't like that. They drove flat-bottom F-550s with level-seven armor and twin turrets, strong against small arms but vulnerable to anything placed directly underneath. Once the Taliban figured out that weakness, a well-buried mine or IED under the chassis could flip a truck or tear it in half. The book is anchored in specific days and events. Ford saved incident reports, op orders, and run paperwork; Chiasson kept a journal. Together they rebuilt a timeline that lets them write, “On April 30 we were here; on May 1 this happened,” instead of “sometime that spring.” Around those convoy stories they layer the wider war: the Camp Chapman suicide bombing; Special Forces “kill teams” at outposts like Ramrod; Italian forces paying the Taliban not to attack them, which meant somebody else—often the Pony Express—became the target. They were there when other contractor convoys got hit, when friends died in F-550s blown apart by stacked anti-tank mines, and when gun trucks limped back into Kabul with wounded men inside and burned-out hulks left behind on the road. Their daily life was built around a simple idea: keep your brothers alive. When they weren't running missions, they were on QRF. When they weren't on QRF, they were working out. When they weren't working out, they were training. They ate together, lived on top of each other in cramped villas and compounds, and used the long Afghan “fighting season”—April through October—to sort out who really belonged there. The easy-sounding mail run weeded people out fast. Some new hires lasted one fighting season, some one mission, some one week. Others stayed for years, until they hit what Ford calls “the wall”—that private moment when you look at a body on a slab, or feel age and accumulated blast damage catching up with you, and decide it's time to go home. Postcards Through Hell doesn't ignore the business side of contracting. Ford and Chiasson talk frankly about companies weighing the cost of vehicle upgrades against death-benefit payouts, replacing seasoned expatriate drivers with cheaper local nationals, and relying on Afghan “expediters” whose loyalties sometimes ran in more than one direction.  The story doesn't end when the convoys stop. The contract itself ran, under different companies, into 2016, and Ford and Chiasson had to cut whole chapters from the book because of classified work and units involved.  At heart, Postcards Through Hell is a book about a very unglamorous, absolutely vital piece of America's longest war.  We're grateful to UPMC for Life  for sponsoring this event!

The Strategic Failure of Abandoning Bagram for HKIA: Colleagues Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson discuss the catastrophic decision to shutter Bagram Air Base, forcing an evacuation through an indefensible civilian airport in Kabul, describing the immediate collapse of security, the release of terrorists from prisons, and the desperate measures US troops took to maintain order during the evacuation. 1910 PESHAWAR

 Identifying the Bomber and the Complex Attack Theory: Colleagues Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson assert the administration concealed the identity of the Abbey Gate bomber because he was a known terrorist released after the US abandoned Bagram, questioning the official narrative and presenting evidence from service members suggesting the event was a complex attack involving gunfire, not just a suicide vest. 1950 KABUL

Attack Incident We begin with the recent violent attack of two National Guard members that were shot by an Afghan national who allegedly entered the U.S. through Biden’s resettlement program. One guard member died, and the other was critically injured. Criticism of Biden Administration The administration prioritized political optics over security during the Afghanistan withdrawal. Accusations of incompetence and ideological blindness to radical Islamic terrorism. Suggests that the administration lied about vetting refugees. Historical Context The chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, including abandoning Bagram Airfield and conducting evacuations from Kabul Airport. Mentions the drop in Biden’s approval ratings after the withdrawal. Predicted Consequences The speakers argue that they warned of these risks in 2021, predicting terror attacks and humanitarian issues. Quotes past tweets and op-eds as evidence of prior warnings. Humanitarian Concerns Discusses cultural practices in Afghanistan such as child marriage and domestic abuse. Raises concerns about Afghan men arriving with child brides and cases of sexual abuse in intake centers. Ideological Critique Frames the administration’s approach as driven by left-wing ideology, claiming Democrats ignore radical Islamic terrorism and prioritize political goals over safety. Mentions Rashida Tlaib’s refusal to condemn “Death to America” chants at a rally in her district as an example of ideological extremism. Additional Security Risks Notes other incidents, such as an Afghan national arrested in Texas for making terroristic threats. Links refugee resettlement issues with broader border security concerns, including illegal immigration and potential terrorist infiltration. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Full audio of the Supreme Court oral argument in Hencely v. Fluor Corp (No. 24-924), argued November 3, 2025. In this case, an Army specialist injured in a Bagram Airfield bombing sues defense contractor Fluor, and the Justices probe whether "uniquely federal interests" and the FTCA's combatant activities exception can preempt state tort claims against military contractors—even when the contractor allegedly breached its contract and violated military orders. The argument goes to the core of contractor immunity, battlefield accountability, and who pays the price when private companies help wage war. Check out the official Crime Talk merch at the Crime Talk Store: scottreisch.com/crime-talk-store. #HencelyvFluor #SCOTUS #SupremeCourt #OralArgument #MilitaryContractors #CrimeTalk

Hencely v. Fluor Corp. | 11/03/25 | Docket #: 24-924 24-924 HENCELY V. FLUOR CORP. DECISION BELOW: 120 F.4th 412 CERT. GRANTED 6/2/2025 QUESTION PRESENTED: Former U.S. Army Specialist Winston T. Hencely was critically and permanently injured by a suicide bomber inside Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. The bomber, Ahmad Nayeb, worked on base for a government contractor. An Army investigation found that the attack's primary contributing factor was the contractor's actions in breach of its Army contract and in violation of the military's instructions to supervise Nayeb. Hencely sued the government contractor for negligence under South Carolina law. He did not sue the military under the Federal Tort Claims Act. Even so, the Fourth Circuit held that Hencely's state claims are preempted by unspoken "federal interests" emanating from an FTCA exception. Invoking Boyle v. United Technologies Corp. , 487 U.S. 500 (1988), the court of appeals held that the FTCA's exception immunizing the government for "[a]ny claim arising out of the combatant activities of the military or naval forces ... during time of war," 28 U.S.C. §2680(j), barred Hencely's South Carolina claims against the contractor . The decision below reaffirmed a 3-1-1 split among the Second, Third, Fourth, Ninth and D.C. Circuits over Boyle 's reach when contractors defend against state tort claims by invoking §2680(j). The question presented is: Should Boyle be extended to allow federal interests emanating from the FTCA's combatant-activities exception to preempt state tort claims against a government contractor for conduct that breached its contract and violated military orders? LOWER COURT CASE NUMBER: 21-1994

00:00:55 – Trump's War on FarmersOpening segment frames Trump's tariffs as a betrayal of the middle class, driving family farms into collapse and pushing farmers toward welfare dependency. 00:31:40 – Frankenbutter & Gates' Food AgendaBill Gates funds lab-grown “Frankenbutter” made from CO2, mocked as expensive technocratic food control. Knight argues the goal is to eliminate family farming and force populations onto synthetic foods. 00:52:57 – Trump–Pfizer Deal SecrecyClosing sections highlight secrecy around Trump's Pfizer agreements, comparing them to Epstein files, and framing them as crony capitalism with Big Pharma shielded from accountability. 00:55:21 – Trump–Pfizer Deal SecrecyPfizer's $70 billion deal with Trump sparks outrage over secrecy. Watchdogs file FOIA requests while critics say Trump is letting Big Pharma gouge Americans under his “TrumpRX” brand. 01:04:44 – Trump's Faith Advisor SentencedPastor Robert Morris, a former Trump faith advisor, gets a light sentence for child sexual abuse. Knight blasts Trump's ties to corrupt megachurch leaders and compares the leniency to Epstein deals. 01:11:49 – FBI Cuts SPLC, ADL Still EmbeddedReports say the FBI will sever ties with the Southern Poverty Law Center but continues working with the ADL. Critics argue the ADL acts as an unregistered foreign agent enforcing Israeli interests in the U.S. 01:46:25 – Trump Escalates Ukraine WarTrump pushes to arm Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, allowing deep strikes into Russia. Critics warn this is reckless escalation toward World War III under the guise of “peace through strength.” 01:59:07 – Trump Threatens China Over BagramTrump demands the U.S. retake Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, framing it as leverage against China. Taliban vows never to surrender it, while China warns such a move would destabilize the region. 02:10:19 – Endless Wars & Occupy PeaceKnight condemns America's permanent state of war before bringing on Gerald Celente to discuss his Occupy Peace rally, where turnout was the lowest in over a decade and dominated by older attendees. 02:23:20 – Trump's Police State & Media ControlCelente and Knight criticize Trump for deploying the military in U.S. cities and highlight media consolidation, censorship, and FCC overreach as signs of authoritarian control. 02:37:17 – Farmageddon & Economic CollapseDiscussion turns to Trump's tariffs crushing family farms, parallels to lockdown stimulus, and forecasts of a dot-com style bust driven by AI hype, global debt, and looming geopolitical crises. 02:50:01 – Gaza, Israel & U.S. ComplicitySegment covers Israel seizing Gaza aid boats, Trump issuing ultimatums to Hamas, Netanyahu rewriting Trump's UN plan, and how U.S. policy follows Israeli interests. 03:58:28 – Fourth Turning & War CycleKnight and Celente argue the world is in a “fourth turning” of financial collapse and war, with elites exploiting generational crises to push censorship, militarism, and global conflict. Follow the show on Kick and watch live every weekday 9:00am EST – 12:00pm EST https://kick.com/davidknightshow Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silverFor 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHTFind out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-david-knight-show--2653468/support.

Subscribe now to skip the ads and get more content. Don't forget to vote for AP in the 2025 Signal Awards! Danny is back on American soil and joins Derek to bring you the news. This week: Trump circulates a Gaza ceasefire proposal with Hamas' response pending (2:39), Israel issues its final evacuation notice for Gaza City (9:30), and the Samud flotilla is intercepted (11:04); Trump forces Netanyahu to apologize to Qatar while also giving Doha a NATO-style defense pledge (14:06); the UN reimposes sanctions on Iran (16:55); Trump pushes to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan as the country briefly loses internet access (20:49); starvation worsens in Sudan's al-Fashir (27:02); “Gen Z protests” erupt in Madagascar and Morocco (29:56); Trump declares Ukraine can retake all lost territory (33:13) while the EU eyes frozen Russian assets (37:04); Argentina's Milei seeks a U.S. bailout (39:51); Washington considers strikes inside Venezuela (42:51); and Pete Hegseth's generals' rally falls flat as Trump muses about using the military in U.S. cities (44:01). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One great power (China) has a relentless thirst to build that comes with a terrible human cost, while its main rival (America) is a more lawyerly and free society that's prone to stifling ideas both good and bad. On the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Dan Wang, a Hoover Institution research fellow and author of the bestseller Breakneck: China's Quest to Engineer the Future, joins GoodFellows regulars Niall Ferguson and H.R. McMaster to discuss what the future holds for the two Cold War 2 rivals, plus Wang's firsthand experiences witnessing China's engineering boom and enduring its draconian pandemic policies. After that, the fellows weigh in on President Trump's recent United Nations address and the state of that institution, the likelihood of Trump's Gaza peace plan coming to fruition, the provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, plus the merits of a US military strike inside Venezuela to counter narco-terrorism. In the lightning round: why America's military brass gathered at Quantico; National Guard troops head to Portland, Oregon; Scotland's frustration with illegal immigration; and the feasibility of the US regaining Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base.  Subscribe to GoodFellows for clarity on today's biggest social, economic, and geostrategic shifts — only on GoodFellows.

00:00:55 – Trump's War on FarmersOpening segment frames Trump's tariffs as a betrayal of the middle class, driving family farms into collapse and pushing farmers toward welfare dependency. 00:31:40 – Frankenbutter & Gates' Food AgendaBill Gates funds lab-grown “Frankenbutter” made from CO2, mocked as expensive technocratic food control. Knight argues the goal is to eliminate family farming and force populations onto synthetic foods. 00:52:57 – Trump–Pfizer Deal SecrecyClosing sections highlight secrecy around Trump's Pfizer agreements, comparing them to Epstein files, and framing them as crony capitalism with Big Pharma shielded from accountability. 00:55:21 – Trump–Pfizer Deal SecrecyPfizer's $70 billion deal with Trump sparks outrage over secrecy. Watchdogs file FOIA requests while critics say Trump is letting Big Pharma gouge Americans under his “TrumpRX” brand. 01:04:44 – Trump's Faith Advisor SentencedPastor Robert Morris, a former Trump faith advisor, gets a light sentence for child sexual abuse. Knight blasts Trump's ties to corrupt megachurch leaders and compares the leniency to Epstein deals. 01:11:49 – FBI Cuts SPLC, ADL Still EmbeddedReports say the FBI will sever ties with the Southern Poverty Law Center but continues working with the ADL. Critics argue the ADL acts as an unregistered foreign agent enforcing Israeli interests in the U.S. 01:46:25 – Trump Escalates Ukraine WarTrump pushes to arm Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, allowing deep strikes into Russia. Critics warn this is reckless escalation toward World War III under the guise of “peace through strength.” 01:59:07 – Trump Threatens China Over BagramTrump demands the U.S. retake Afghanistan's Bagram Air Base, framing it as leverage against China. Taliban vows never to surrender it, while China warns such a move would destabilize the region. 02:10:19 – Endless Wars & Occupy PeaceKnight condemns America's permanent state of war before bringing on Gerald Celente to discuss his Occupy Peace rally, where turnout was the lowest in over a decade and dominated by older attendees. 02:23:20 – Trump's Police State & Media ControlCelente and Knight criticize Trump for deploying the military in U.S. cities and highlight media consolidation, censorship, and FCC overreach as signs of authoritarian control. 02:37:17 – Farmageddon & Economic CollapseDiscussion turns to Trump's tariffs crushing family farms, parallels to lockdown stimulus, and forecasts of a dot-com style bust driven by AI hype, global debt, and looming geopolitical crises. 02:50:01 – Gaza, Israel & U.S. ComplicitySegment covers Israel seizing Gaza aid boats, Trump issuing ultimatums to Hamas, Netanyahu rewriting Trump's UN plan, and how U.S. policy follows Israeli interests. 03:58:28 – Fourth Turning & War CycleKnight and Celente argue the world is in a “fourth turning” of financial collapse and war, with elites exploiting generational crises to push censorship, militarism, and global conflict. Follow the show on Kick and watch live every weekday 9:00am EST – 12:00pm EST https://kick.com/davidknightshow Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to https://davidknight.gold/ for great deals on physical gold/silverFor 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to https://trendsjournal.com/ and enter the code KNIGHTFind out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.com If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-david-knight-show--5282736/support.

Subscribe now to skip the ads and get more content.Don't forget to vote for AP in the 2025 Signal Awards!Danny is back on American soil and joins Derek to bring you the news. This week: Trump circulates a Gaza ceasefire proposal with Hamas' response pending (2:39), Israel issues its final evacuation notice for Gaza City (9:30), and the Samud flotilla is intercepted (11:04); Trump forces Netanyahu to apologize to Qatar while also giving Doha a NATO-style defense pledge (14:06); the UN reimposes sanctions on Iran (16:55); Trump pushes to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan as the country briefly loses internet access (20:49); starvation worsens in Sudan's al-Fashir (27:02); “Gen Z protests” erupt in Madagascar and Morocco (29:56); Trump declares Ukraine can retake all lost territory (33:13) while the EU eyes frozen Russian assets (37:04); Argentina's Milei seeks a U.S. bailout (39:51); Washington considers strikes inside Venezuela (42:51); and Pete Hegseth's generals' rally falls flat as Trump muses about using the military in U.S. cities (44:01).Our Sponsors:* this is a paid advertisement from BetterHelp. Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/THENATIONAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

HEADLINE: Afghanistan Hostage Release, Bagram Debate, and Skepticism on Gaza Peace Plan GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani 50 WORD SUMMARY: American citizen Amir Amiri was released by the Taliban, though likely at the cost of a US prisoner. The concept of reclaiming Bagram is viewed as a risky, impractical negotiating ploy. Discussion covered tens of thousands of Afghans left behind. Experts expressed skepticism regarding the Gaza 21-point plan due to many moving parts and Hamas's goals. 1872 TAJIKISTAN

HEADLINE: Afghanistan Hostage Release, Bagram Debate, and Skepticism on Gaza Peace Plan GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani 50 WORD SUMMARY: American citizen Amir Amiri was released by the Taliban, though likely at the cost of a US prisoner. The concept of reclaiming Bagram is viewed as a risky, impractical negotiating ploy. Discussion covered tens of thousands of Afghans left behind. Experts expressed skepticism regarding the Gaza 21-point plan due to many moving parts and Hamas's goals. 1910 DAMASCUS

CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR THE SHOW BEGINS IN THE DOUBTS ABOUT THE FATE OF GAZA.. 1945N GAZA RAILROAD 9-29-2025 FIRST HOUR 9-915 BILL-ROGGIO-HUSAIN-HAQQANI-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Afghanistan Hostage Release, Bagram Debate, and Skepticism on Gaza Peace Plan GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani 50 WORD SUMMARY: Americancitizen Amir Amiri was released by the Taliban, though likely at the cost of a US prisoner. The concept of reclaiming Bagram is viewed as a risky, impractical negotiating ploy. Discussion covered tens of thousands of Afghans left behind. Experts expressed skepticism regarding the Gaza 21-point plan due to many moving parts and Hamas's goals.   915-930 BILL-ROGGIO-HUSAIN-HAQQANI-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Afghanistan Hostage Release, Bagram Debate, and Skepticism on Gaza Peace Plan GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani 50 WORD SUMMARY: Americancitizen Amir Amiri was released by the Taliban, though likely at the cost of a US prisoner. The concept of reclaiming Bagram is viewed as a risky, impractical negotiating ploy. Discussion covered tens of thousands of Afghans left behind. Experts expressed skepticism regarding the Gaza 21-point plan due to many moving parts and Hamas's goals. 930-945 MORSE-TAN-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: South Korea Faces "Techno-Totalitarianism" After Suspicious Data Center FireGUEST NAME: Morse Tan 50 WORD SUMMARY: A suspicious battery blaze paralyzed over 600 South Koreangovernment services, raising questions about server security and the destruction of intelligence. The timing is critical, disabling background checks on Chinese entrants. President Yoon Suk Yeol is strongly allied with the CCP, having purged military leadership. This incident, likened to the Reichstag fire, poses a grave threat to democracy and fosters "techno-totalitarianism."945-1000 MARK-CLIFFORD2-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Jimmy Lai's Imprisonment Highlights UK's "Stovepiped" Diplomacy with China GUEST NAME: Mark Clifford 50 WORD SUMMARY: Jimmy Lai, a jailed British citizen and prominent Hong Kong dissident, is a litmus test for freedom. The Starmer government is now showing movement, potentially working with the US for his release. The UK faces criticism for "stovepiping" diplomacy, failing to link Lai's freedom to economic issues, such as China's desired mega embassy. China asserts ownership over Lai based on his ethnicity. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 JANETYN-SAYEH-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Iran Faces Full UN Sanctions Snapback; Gen Z Leads Domestic OppositionGUEST NAME: Janet Sayeh 50 WORD SUMMARY: The West successfully enacted UN sanctions "snapback," reimposing sanctions lifted since 2015. The economy is already shocked, though enforcement against illicit networks depends on Washington. Iran may risk Israeli military action by continuing its nuclear program. Gen Z has categorically rejected the regime, leading major uprisings. The opposition is actively working to encourage defections within the security establishment.V 1015-1030 JANET-SAYEH-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Iran Faces Full UN Sanctions Snapback; Gen Z Leads Domestic OppositionGUEST NAME: Janet Sayeh 50 WORD SUMMARY: The West successfully enacted UN sanctions "snapback," reimposing sanctions lifted since 2015. The economy is already shocked, though enforcement against illicit networks depends on Washington. Iran may risk Israeli military action by continuing its nuclear program. Gen Z has categorically rejected the regime, leading major uprisings. The opposition is actively working to encourage defections within the security establishment.1030-1045 DAVID-DAOUD-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: IDF Faces Urban Combat; Hezbollah Rearms Aided by Iran; Golan Heights Non-Negotiable GUEST NAME: David Daoud 50 WORD SUMMARY: IDF operations in Gaza face difficulties due to urban fighting, personnel shortages, and international pressure. Hezbollah is actively rearming, supported quietly by Iranian funds and weapons smuggling efforts. The Lebanese government is failing to disarm Hezbollah. Israelmaintains the strategically vital Golan Heights are non-negotiable for the foreseeable future, despite security discussions with the Syrian government. 1045-1100 DAVID-DAOUD-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: IDF Faces Urban Combat; Hezbollah Rearms Aided by Iran; Golan Heights Non-Negotiable GUEST NAME: David Daoud 50 WORD SUMMARY: IDF operations in Gaza face difficulties due to urban fighting, personnel shortages, and international pressure. Hezbollah is actively rearming, supported quietly by Iranian funds and weapons smuggling efforts. The Lebanese government is failing to disarm Hezbollah. Israelmaintains the strategically vital Golan Heights are non-negotiable for the foreseeable future, despite security discussions with the Syrian government. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 BLAINE-HOLT-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Russian Probes, European Escalation Rhetoric, and the Threat of Drone Swarms GUEST NAME: General Blaine Holt 50 WORD SUMMARY: Russian aircraft regularly probe the Alaskan ADIZ, met by US F-16s. Standardized procedures minimize miscalculation risk. Reckless rhetoric from European allies threatens escalation by suggesting shooting down Russian jets violating NATO airspace. European defense ministers are planning a "drone wall" to counter massive Russian drone swarms, which Ukraine currently cannot defeat. 1115-1130 BLAINE-HOLT-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Russian Probes, European Escalation Rhetoric, and the Threat of Drone Swarms GUEST NAME: General Blaine Holt 50 WORD SUMMARY: Russian aircraft regularly probe the Alaskan ADIZ, met by US F-16s. Standardized procedures minimize miscalculation risk. Reckless rhetoric from European allies threatens escalation by suggesting shooting down Russian jets violating NATO airspace. European defense ministers are planning a "drone wall" to counter massive Russian drone swarms, which Ukraine currently cannot defeat. 1130-1145 ALEJANDRO-PENA-ESCLUSA-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Venezuela's Crisis and Maduro's Drug Cartel: US Intervention Anticipated GUEST NAME: Alejandro Peña Esclusa 50 WORD SUMMARY: Venezuela is enduring a humanitarian crisis under Nicolás Maduro, leader of the Cartel of the Suns. The elected opposition, Edmundo González and María Corina Machado, have publicly authorized US intervention. Maduro's desperate letter to Trumpwas rejected as full of lies. Regional allies like Lula and Petro fear US action and indirectly try to save Maduro. 1145-1200 ALEJANDRO-PENA-ESCLUSA-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Venezuela's Crisis and Maduro's Drug Cartel: US Intervention Anticipated GUEST NAME: Alejandro Peña Esclusa 50 WORD SUMMARY: Venezuela is enduring a humanitarian crisis under Nicolás Maduro, leader of the Cartel of the Suns. The elected opposition, Edmundo González and María Corina Machado, have publicly authorized US intervention. Maduro's desperate letter to Trumpwas rejected as full of lies. Regional allies like Lula and Petro fear US action and indirectly try to save Maduro. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 AHMAD-SHARAWI-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Al-Sharaa Seeks Normalization at UN Amid Sanctions and Domestic Tensions GUEST NAME: Ahmad Sharawi 50 WORD SUMMARY: Syrian strongman Al-Sharaa visited the UNseeking international normalization and to consolidate domestic power. He met world leaders and sought removal of Caesar sanctions, though Congress must approve this. World leaders mostly ignored questions about massacres. Major powers remain in Syria, and Kurds are negotiating integration, while Israel pursues a security agreement. 1215-1230 AHMAD-SHARAWI-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Al-Sharaa Seeks Normalization at UN Amid Sanctions and Domestic Tensions GUEST NAME: Ahmad Sharawi 50 WORD SUMMARY: Syrian strongman Al-Sharaa visited the UNseeking international normalization and to consolidate domestic power. He met world leaders and sought removal of Caesar sanctions, though Congress must approve this. World leaders mostly ignored questions about massacres. Major powers remain in Syria, and Kurds are negotiating integration, while Israel pursues a security agreement. 1230-1245 BRIDGET-TOOMEY-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Houthi Attacks Escalate: Targeting Shipping and Deploying Cluster Munitions GUEST NAME: Bridget Toomey 50 WORD SUMMARY: The Houthis struck a Netherlands-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden. The international community is quiet, as the Houthis interpret the US ceasefire as full permission to target Israel. They are also deploying cluster munition warheads on ballistic missiles against Israel. Houthisystems seem to be improving, penetrating Israeli defenses. CENTCOM considers the current US hands-off policy a strategic defeat. 1245-100 AM KEVIN-FRAZIER-9-29.mp3 HEADLINE: Russian Spy Ships Target Vulnerable Undersea Communication CablesGUEST NAME: Kevin Frazier 50 WORD SUMMARY: Undersea cables are highly vulnerable to sabotage or accidental breaks. Russia uses sophisticated naval technology, including the spy ship Yantar, to map and potentially break these cables in sensitive locations. The US is less vulnerable due to redundancy. However, protection is fragmented, relying on private owners who often lack incentives to adopt sophisticated defense techniques.

On this episode we start off talking about the shootings in New Hampshire and the ICE facility in Dallas. We then shift towards the situation between Venezuela and America. President Trump endorses thwe Argentinian President for re-election, and the Taliban rejects Trumps proposal to reclain Bagram Air Base in Afganistan. Speaking of Trump, we then talk about some of the claims being made by his administration in regards to tylenol being used by pregnant women, then we spend a minute talking about birthing practices in the United States. The DOJ is attempting to indict James Comey for purgery before the statute of limitations runs out in a few days. Kamala Harris has a new book where she blames the Demopctratic party for her lose in the 2024 election...because that's why she lost. We then shift the conversation over to Europe where Russia has their hands full. Not only did they violate Estonian air space (again), and not only did Ukraine successfully destroy critical fuel and energy infastructure, but the Russian authorities also arrested three young adults for shooting content in front of one of the fires for content! Finally we talk about the floatilla making its way to Gaza being protected now by Italian naval vessels, which leads us to a biblical history conversation about the validity of some of the stories from the Old Testiment. To join us next wednesday night at 9pm cst, come to patreon.com/CajunKnightBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cult-of-conspiracy--5700337/support.

- Introduction and Overview of Key Topics (0:11) - Analysis of Trump's Post and Its Implications (2:34) - Critique of NATO and Western Propaganda (15:31) - Special Report on World War III (21:03) - Interview with Michael Yon on Charlie Kirk's Assassination (47:15) - Historical Context and Strategic Implications (1:06:41) - Bagram Air Base and Geopolitical Tensions (1:11:43) - Trump's UN Speech and Military Strategy (1:22:17) - Challenges of Invading Iran (1:22:44) - Economic and Political Implications (1:38:57) - Turkey's Military Preparations (1:47:04) - The Role of Zionists and Christian Zionists (1:52:00) - The Future of Israel and the Middle East (1:53:27) - The Role of the United Nations and International Organizations (1:59:40) - The Impact of Economic and Political Changes (2:00:48) - Preparing for Future Conflicts (2:04:10) For more updates, visit: http://www.brighteon.com/channel/hrreport  NaturalNews videos would not be possible without you, as always we remain passionately dedicated to our mission of educating people all over the world on the subject of natural healing remedies and personal liberty (food freedom, medical freedom, the freedom of speech, etc.). Together, we're helping create a better world, with more honest food labeling, reduced chemical contamination, the avoidance of toxic heavy metals and vastly increased scientific transparency. ▶️ Every dollar you spend at the Health Ranger Store goes toward helping us achieve important science and content goals for humanity: https://www.healthrangerstore.com/ ▶️ Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://www.naturalnews.com/Readerregistration.html ▶️ Brighteon: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/hrreport ▶️ Join Our Social Network: https://brighteon.social/@HealthRanger ▶️ Check In Stock Products at: https://PrepWithMike.com

PREVIEW: Al-Qaeda-Linked Taliban Use Bagram Air Base as Military Location GUEST: Bill Roggio SUMMARY: The al-Qaeda-linked Taliban use Bagram Air Base as a military base, maintaining the abandoned Afghan aircraft and helicopters, likely supported by the Pakistanis or the Chinese. 1919 KABUL RIVER

HEADLINE: Bagram Air Base Inaccessible as Saudi Arabia Seeks Pakistani Nuclear Umbrella for Regional Security Assurance GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani discuss President Trump's unlikely ambition to retake Bagram, analyzing the new Saudi-Pakistan nuclear umbrella pact as a strategic signal against perceived US unreliability. 2940 KHYBER PASS

HEADLINE: Bagram Air Base Inaccessible as Saudi Arabia Seeks Pakistani Nuclear Umbrella for Regional Security Assurance GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani discuss President Trump's unlikely ambition to retake Bagram, analyzing the new Saudi-Pakistan nuclear umbrella pact as a strategic signal against perceived US unreliability.

CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR 9-22-25 THE SHOW BEGINS AT BAGRAM AIRBASE 1960 FIRST HOUR 9-915 HEADLINE: Bagram Air Base Inaccessible as Saudi Arabia Seeks Pakistani Nuclear Umbrella for Regional Security Assurance GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani discuss President Trump's unlikely ambition to retake Bagram, analyzing the new Saudi-Pakistan nuclear umbrella pact as a strategic signal against perceived US unreliability. 915-930 HEADLINE: Bagram Air Base Inaccessible as Saudi Arabia Seeks Pakistani Nuclear Umbrella for Regional Security Assurance GUEST NAME: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani SUMMARY: Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani discuss President Trump's unlikely ambition to retake Bagram, analyzing the new Saudi-Pakistan nuclear umbrella pact as a strategic signal against perceived US unreliability. 930-945 HEADLINE: Israel's Dual Crisis: Analyzing Netanyahu's Conflict with the Activist Supreme Court and the Post-October 7th Tragedy GUEST NAME: Peter Berkowitz SUMMARY: Peter Berkowitz details Israel's crisis: the activist Supreme Court, Netanyahu's trial/judicial reform, and the high optimism before the October 7th attack, stressing balanced leadership. 945-1000 HEADLINE: Israel's Dual Crisis: Analyzing Netanyahu's Conflict with the Activist Supreme Court and the Post-October 7th Tragedy GUEST NAME: Peter Berkowitz SUMMARY: Peter Berkowitz details Israel's crisis: the activist Supreme Court, Netanyahu's trial/judicial reform, and the high optimism before the October 7th attack, stressing balanced leadership. SECOND HOUR 10-1015 HEADLINE: Houthi Daily Attacks on Israel Continue, Underscoring Failure to Deal with Militia and Impact on Red Sea Shipping GUEST NAME: Bridget Toomey SUMMARY: Bridget Toomey reports Houthi daily attacks against Israel continue, disrupting Red Sea shipping. Ending the threat likely requires an international ground offensive, which currently remains beyond imagining. 1015-1030 HEADLINE: Syrian President al-Sharaa Attends UN General Assembly, Lobbies US Officials for Sanctions Relief, Including the Caesar Act GUEST NAME: Ahmad Sharawi SUMMARY: Ahmad Sharawi discusses Syrian President al-Sharaa's unprecedented UN visit to lobby for sanctions relief, including the Caesar Act, despite concerns regarding human rights and necessary guarantees for justice. 1030-1045 HEADLINE: Venezuelan Opposition Authorizes US Military Action as Maduro Writes to Trump Amid Economic Collapse and Political Persecution GUEST NAME: Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: Alejandro Peña Esclusa details Venezuela's economic crisis, reports the opposition supports US military action against Maduro, and notes troubled Colombian President Petro's drug links. 1045-1100 HEADLINE: Venezuelan Opposition Authorizes US Military Action as Maduro Writes to Trump Amid Economic Collapse and Political Persecution GUEST NAME: Alejandro Peña Esclusa SUMMARY: Alejandro Peña Esclusa details Venezuela's economic crisis, reports the opposition supports US military action against Maduro, and notes troubled Colombian President Petro's drug links. THIRD HOUR 1100-1115 HEADLINE: Escalation Risk: NATO Allies Accuse Russia of Airspace Violations, Raising Concerns Over Miscalculation GUEST NAME: General Blaine Holt SUMMARY: General Blaine Holt analyzes escalating NATO-Russia tensions from alleged airspace violations, stressing the danger of miscalculation. He advocates for non-military, de-escalatory approaches to avoid a nuclear flashpoint.1115-1130 HEADLINE: Escalation Risk: NATO Allies Accuse Russia of Airspace Violations, Raising Concerns Over Miscalculation GUEST NAME: General Blaine Holt SUMMARY: General Blaine Holt analyzes escalating NATO-Russia tensions from alleged airspace violations, stressing the danger of miscalculation. He advocates for non-military, de-escalatory approaches to avoid a nuclear flashpoint.1130-1145 HEADLINE: IDF Advances in Gaza City; Expert Cautions Against Incoherent Hostage Deals and Untrustworthy Multinational Policing Forces GUEST NAME: David Daoud SUMMARY: David Daoud analyzes IDF Gaza operations, noting Hamas links a ceasefire deal to gaining legitimacy. He cautions against relying on new anti-Hamas militias or a multinational policing force. 1145-1200 HEADLINE: IDF Advances in Gaza City; Expert Cautions Against Incoherent Hostage Deals and Untrustworthy Multinational Policing Forces GUEST NAME: David Daoud SUMMARY: David Daoud analyzes IDF Gaza operations, noting Hamas links a ceasefire deal to gaining legitimacy. He cautions against relying on new anti-Hamas militias or a multinational policing force. FOURTH HOUR 12-1215 HEADLINE: Iran's Nuclear Standoff Continues; Tehran Seeks Russian Help and New Iraq Smuggling Routes to Support Proxies GUEST NAME: Jonathan Sayah SUMMARY: Jonathan Sayah analyzes Iran's difficult juncture with the IAEA regarding nuclear transparency and reconstitution fears, noting Russian aid and Iranian efforts to sustain proxies via new smuggling routes through Iraq. 1215-1230 HEADLINE: Iran's Nuclear Standoff Continues; Tehran Seeks Russian Help and New Iraq Smuggling Routes to Support Proxies GUEST NAME: Jonathan Sayah SUMMARY: Jonathan Sayah analyzes Iran's difficult juncture with the IAEA regarding nuclear transparency and reconstitution fears, noting Russian aid and Iranian efforts to sustain proxies via new smuggling routes through Iraq. 1230-1245 HEADLINE: Strategic Partnership: Russia Barters Advanced Military Technology, Including Nuclear Submarine Capabilities, for North Korean Munitions GUEST NAME: Professor Bruce Bechtol SUMMARY: Professor Bruce Bechtol details the North Korea-Russia strategic partnership. Russia pays for North Korean munitions with military technology, including nuclear submarine capability, while their special operations forces fought fiercely in Ukraine. 1245-100 AM HEADLINE: Strategic Partnership: Russia Barters Advanced Military Technology, Including Nuclear Submarine Capabilities, for North Korean Munitions GUEST NAME: Professor Bruce Bechtol SUMMARY: Professor Bruce Bechtol details the North Korea-Russia strategic partnership. Russia pays for North Korean munitions with military technology, including nuclear submarine capability, while their special operations forces fought fiercely in Ukraine.

Today's episode dives into a storm of global and domestic crises threatening America's security. We start with breaking news of a massive foreign telecommunications network discovered near the UN General Assembly, capable of crippling 911 systems and targeting U.S. leaders. Then, we unpack the strategic necessity of reclaiming Bagram Air Base, Trump's post-midterm plans, and ongoing threats from terror training camps in Afghanistan, including a resurgence of al Qaeda. Domestically, we explore escalating left-wing violence at ICE facilities in Chicago, Portland, and beyond, exposing how law enforcement in sanctuary cities often fails to respond, leaving federal agents and citizens at risk. From cyberattacks and international espionage to civil unrest and political betrayals, this episode connects the dots on how national security, foreign policy, and domestic lawlessness intersect—and what it means for the future of the United States.

In this explosive episode, we cover breaking national security threats and political turmoil from New York to Afghanistan. The Secret Service uncovers a massive telecommunications plot near the UN General Assembly, revealing the vulnerabilities of U.S. networks and potential foreign interference. We dive deep into the strategic importance of Bagram Air Base, Trump's plan to reclaim it, and the threats posed by resurgent terror camps in Afghanistan. From cyberattacks linked to foreign actors to the escalating left-wing insurrections against ICE facilities in U.S. cities, this episode examines the intersecting crises threatening American safety, sovereignty, and order. Prepare for a full-spectrum look at geopolitics, homeland security, and domestic unrest—because doing nothing is not an option.

In this high-stakes episode, we dive into the latest breaking national security developments. The Secret Service has uncovered a massive plot involving hundreds of thousands of SIM cards capable of disabling cell towers, 911 systems, and encrypted communications—potentially targeting U.S. leaders during the UN General Assembly in New York. We break down what this means, the ongoing investigation, and the implications for American cybersecurity in a world of nation-state threats. We also examine the strategic significance of Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. With China, Iran, and Russia all maneuvering for influence, we analyze why reclaiming this base is critical for countering threats and maintaining global military leverage—and why fewer troops may still be enough to hold this tactical jewel. From cyber vulnerabilities to global military strategy, this episode gives a deep look at the complex threats facing the U.S. today and the bold moves being considered to keep America secure.

In this episode, we break down the strategic urgency of reclaiming Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. Far from a full-scale invasion, modern technology and drone capabilities make retaking this critical base a precise operation—key for countering terrorist training camps and projecting power across the Middle East and beyond. We explore how the previous Biden administration's withdrawal left the base in the hands of the Taliban and China, the implications for Al Qaeda and emerging terror networks, and why Trump sees Bagram as a linchpin for future operations against Iran's nuclear program. From border security to global military strategy, this episode examines why “doing nothing” is not an option—and how modern warfare changes the game.

In this week's episode of China Insider, Miles Yu covers the latest developments surrounding the US-China TikTok deal that reached a proposed framework for the US to secure protections for American user data in the hands of Oracle Corp. including algorithm management, application development, and source code review. Next, Miles reviews President Trump's move to impose a fee for US companies on all new H1-B visa petitions, and what this move means for Beijing's planned rollout for their new K visa program. Lastly, Miles unpacks the recent bid by the Trump administration to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, and how this move relates to larger US strategic interests to secure a regional foothold to counter increased Chinese influence and military mobilization. China Insider is a weekly podcast project from Hudson Institute's China Center, hosted by China Center Director and Senior Fellow, Dr. Miles Yu, who provides weekly news that mainstream American outlets often miss, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis on the China challenge and the free world's future.

Back To Bagram Trump Threatens To Re-Occupy Afghanistan! by Ron Paul Liberty Report

-- On the Show: -- Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania, joins us to discuss political violence, free speech, discerning fact from fiction online, and much more -- At Charlie Kirk's memorial, Donald Trump, Erika Kirk, Stephen Miller, and others turn the service into a showcase for authoritarian themes -- Trump rambles about vaccines and corruption during a bizarre late-night press event -- Gavin Newsom signs the No Secret Police Act to stop masked ICE raids and challenges Trump's deportation regime -- Karoline Leavitt vanishes from press briefings as Trump's White House spirals into chaos -- Trump stumbles through an interview with Peter Doocy while joking about violence and media control -- Trump shields Tom Homan after he is caught on video taking a $50,000 bribe -- David contrasts Jimmy Kimmel's censorship with Roseanne Barr's firing following MAGA allegations of hypocrisy -- Trump claims negative media coverage of him is illegal while ignoring free speech protections -- On the Bonus Show: Trump wants Bagram air base back from the Taliban, lawmakers want trans people Institutionalized, AOC weighing Senate or presidential run, and much more...

In this episode of The President's Daily Brief: Russia once again tests NATO, as three fighter jets violate Estonian airspace in the most serious breach in years. We'll explain why leaders say the alliance is edging closer to direct conflict. President Trump warns Afghanistan's Taliban leaders: return Bagram Air Base to U.S. control—or face consequences. The New York Times reports Trump's Justice Department shut down an FBI probe into border czar Tom Homan—after he was caught on tape accepting a bag of cash. And in today's Back of the Brief—the National Counterterrorism Center warns al Qaeda's threat to the U.S. hasn't gone away, and may even be growing. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com.Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief.YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Birch Gold: Text PDB to 989898 and get your free info kit on goldAmerican Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. NMLS 182334, https://nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.327% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-885-1881 for details about credit costs and terms. Visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/PDB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Monday Headline Brief of The Wright Report, we cover Charlie Kirk's memorial service and its powerful messages of faith and forgiveness, Trump's crackdown on Harvard and Berkeley, fresh threats from al Qaeda inside the U.S., Trump's push to retake Bagram air base, TikTok's murky new ownership deal, Argentina's fight against socialism, and what's ahead this week on the Wright Report. Quick hits to launch your week with the facts shaping America and the world.   Charlie Kirk Memorial in Arizona: Erika Kirk vowed, “No one will ever forget my husband's name — and I will make sure of it.” She forgave the assassin, telling the crowd, “That man… I forgive him.” Trump honored Kirk as a man of grace but joked, “Charlie did not hate his opponents. That's where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponents, and I don't want the best for them.”   Trump Hits Harvard and Berkeley: The White House placed Harvard on a federal watchlist restricting access to $550 million in funds, citing civil rights violations and leftist violence. UC Berkeley handed over names of 160 students and staff after pressure to expose antisemitic and radical faculty. Bryan says this is Trump waging the fight “where it belongs — in their pocketbooks.”   Al Qaeda Plot Inside the U.S.: The National Counterterrorism Center warns AQ operatives from Yemen are in multiple American cities. Rumors suggest they may pose as police or medics during future attacks. Bryan urges vigilance: “While we may be done with Radical Islam — it is not done with us.”   Trump Demands Afghanistan Return Bagram Air Base: The president warned the Taliban, “Bad things are going to happen” if the U.S. is not given control of the base, citing the need to monitor China's nearby nuclear sites. Kabul insists “not one inch” will be ceded.   TikTok's U.S. Ownership Deal: Fox's Murdoch, Oracle's Larry Ellison, and Dell's Michael Dell will sit on TikTok's new U.S. board, with one seat reserved for a Chinese official. Trump insists user data will be controlled on U.S. soil, but skeptics warn Xi will not give up his propaganda tool without concessions.   Argentina's Milei Meets Trump: With inflation down from 250 percent to 34 percent, Milei still faces socialist backlash at home. Trump may use the U.S. Exchange Stabilization Fund to provide a financial lifeline. Bryan warns, “Never underestimate a death cult. Marxists don't get tired of fighting.”   Looking Ahead This Week: Trump promises revelations about autism and Tylenol, a bailout for struggling farmers and truckers, and big updates on immigration, Biden's mental decline, and global conflicts from Gaza to the Pacific.   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Charlie Kirk memorial Erika Kirk forgiveness, Trump joke Charlie Kirk opponents, Harvard federal funds restriction, UC Berkeley antisemitic faculty names, al Qaeda AQAP U.S. cities plot, Trump Bagram air base Taliban threat, TikTok U.S. ownership Murdochs Ellison Dell, Xi Jinping propaganda TikTok, Argentina Milei Trump Exchange Stabilization Fund, Trump autism Tylenol link, U.S. farmers truckers tariff bailout, Biden mental decline cognition

Charlie Memorial; H1B; corruption; Pentagon; Baltic; Bagram; Argentina; Palestine | Yaron Brook ShowSeptember 22, 2025Yaron takes on the deep contradictions in America's political culture, the fragility of free speech in an age of coercion, and why the West's survival depends on clarity, courage, and moral confidence.

Four years after America's chaotic retreat from Afghanistan, President Trump has said he wants U.S. forces back at Bagram — or as Bill and Tom call it: a fantasy. They explain why the Taliban will never allow it, China wouldn't tolerate it, and Washington still hasn't learned. From Doha to Abbey Gate, they retrace how America's exit empowered jihadists—and why talk of going back is pure madness.

Hi to all the Charlie Kirk memorial attendees. We got your back.Politics, Charlie Kirk Memorial Event, Andrew Kolvet, TDS Mental Health Issue, Home Purchase Sharing, TikTok Purchase, Elon Musk, AI Simulated Microsoft, Autism Cause Speculation, Stephen A. Smith, Kamala Harris Career, Tom Homan, MSNBC Hit Piece, Abby Phillip, democrat Cancellation Policy, Jimmy Kimmel, FCC Fairness Doctrine, Kimmel's Ultra-Woke Wife, Gavin McInnes, AOC Presidential Campaign, Thomas Massie, Epstein Client List, Soros Funding Gatekeeper, Alex Soros, Gavin Newsom's Technique, Minnesota Massive Fraud, Local Government Fraud, Corruption Design Problem, Manilla Corruption Protests, UK Palestine State Recognition, UK MAGA, China Covid Whistleblower, Ukraine War, Drone Warfare, Cartel Del Sol, Venezuela Drug Boats, President Trump, Bagram Air Base, Soccer Brain Injuries, Baltimore School System, Scott Adams~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~If you would like to enjoy this same content plus bonus content from Scott Adams, including micro-lessons on lots of useful topics to build your talent stack, please see scottadams.locals.com for full access to that secret treasure.

On Friday's Mark Levin Show, WREC's Ben Ferguson fills in for Mark. No, President Trump didn't act like a dictator and get late-night hosts Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel fired or canceled. Colbert's show was axed due to financial losses of $40 million annually, low ratings, and audience alienation from anti-conservative bias, with CBS executives confirming the decision was made months earlier and unrelated to Trump or regulatory approvals.  Similarly, Kimmel's suspension stemmed from money-losing operations, a drastic drop in viewership and affiliates like Nexstar and Sinclair refusing to air the show after Kimmel spread lies about Charlie Kirk's killer being MAGA-linked, despite evidence showing the assassin was a leftist. Also, government shouldn't be limiting free speech, particularly those seeking to silence critics via the FCC, as this could backfire severely. Declining mainstream media influence, bolstered by social media and figures like Elon Musk, allows bypassing echo chambers; tolerating opposing views preserves a free country. Later, Trump's announced that his administration is negotiating to reclaim Bagram Air Base from the Taliban because of its national security importance due to its location just an hour from China's nuclear weapons production sites. The Biden administration's Afghanistan withdrawal was chaotic, they abandoned the massive, strategically vital base, allowing China to occupy it. This would be a key achievement in protecting American interests against terrorists and adversaries like China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

-Donald Trump celebrates rising poll numbers, promises to reopen Bagram Air Base, and pushes to officially designate Antifa a terrorist group. -On the Newsmax Hotline, Tony Kinnett (Daily Signal) joins to discuss Charlie Kirk's murder, Antifa, Democrat rhetoric, and the spiritual revival sweeping America. Today's podcast is sponsored by : BIRCH GOLD - Protect and grow your retirement savings with gold. Text ROB to 98 98 98 for your FREE information kit! To call in and speak with Rob Carson live on the show, dial 1-800-922-6680 between the hours of 12 Noon and 3:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday…E-mail Rob Carson at : RobCarsonShow@gmail.com Musical parodies provided by Jim Gossett (www.patreon.com/JimGossettComedy) Listen to Newsmax LIVE and see our entire podcast lineup at http://Newsmax.com/Listen Make the switch to NEWSMAX today! Get your 15 day free trial of NEWSMAX+ at http://NewsmaxPlus.com Looking for NEWSMAX caps, tees, mugs & more? Check out the Newsmax merchandise shop at : http://nws.mx/shop Follow NEWSMAX on Social Media:  -Facebook: http://nws.mx/FB  -X/Twitter: http://nws.mx/twitter -Instagram: http://nws.mx/IG -YouTube: https://youtube.com/NewsmaxTV -Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NewsmaxTV -TRUTH Social: https://truthsocial.com/@NEWSMAX -GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/newsmax -Threads: http://threads.net/@NEWSMAX  -Telegram: http://t.me/newsmax  -BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/newsmax.com -Parler: http://app.parler.com/newsmax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

-Donald Trump, speaking in England, vows to reclaim Bagram Air Base and blasts Biden's Afghanistan withdrawal. -Guest on the Newsmax Hotline: Christian Toto (Hollywood in Toto) joins to discuss Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, cancel culture, and Hollywood hypocrisy. Today's podcast is sponsored by : BIRCH GOLD - Protect and grow your retirement savings with gold. Text ROB to 98 98 98 for your FREE information kit! To call in and speak with Rob Carson live on the show, dial 1-800-922-6680 between the hours of 12 Noon and 3:00 pm Eastern Time Monday through Friday…E-mail Rob Carson at : RobCarsonShow@gmail.com Musical parodies provided by Jim Gossett (www.patreon.com/JimGossettComedy) Listen to Newsmax LIVE and see our entire podcast lineup at http://Newsmax.com/Listen Make the switch to NEWSMAX today! Get your 15 day free trial of NEWSMAX+ at http://NewsmaxPlus.com Looking for NEWSMAX caps, tees, mugs & more? Check out the Newsmax merchandise shop at : http://nws.mx/shop Follow NEWSMAX on Social Media:  -Facebook: http://nws.mx/FB  -X/Twitter: http://nws.mx/twitter -Instagram: http://nws.mx/IG -YouTube: https://youtube.com/NewsmaxTV -Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NewsmaxTV -TRUTH Social: https://truthsocial.com/@NEWSMAX -GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/newsmax -Threads: http://threads.net/@NEWSMAX  -Telegram: http://t.me/newsmax  -BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/newsmax.com -Parler: http://app.parler.com/newsmax Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During his state visit to the UK, President Donald Trump expressed interest in the US reclaiming Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan, which is now in the hands of the Taliban and would likely require negotiations to retake. Also, a look at the status of democracy in Turkey as opposition mayors remain in jail. And, the US has now destroyed three ships off the coast of Venezuela, claiming they were tied to drug cartels; we look at the legal arguments around the airstrikes. Plus, new data from the World Meteorological Organization finds that the hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica is continuing to heal, and is expected to close entirely by mid-century.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices