Podcasts about Officer candidate school

     What drives someone to transition from aspiring Marine to a leading figure in military and federal healthcare? Dr. Leith States' journey is marked by pivotal moments, including a personal tragedy that redirected his path toward medicine. In a candid conversation, Dr. States shares his unique experiences, from attending Officer Candidate School with the Marines to serving as a Battalion Surgeon during Operation Enduring Freedom. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the essential role preventive medicine plays in military settings and how these high-stakes environments shape healthcare practices.    As Dr. States' career unfolds, his story exemplifies adaptability and leadership in both military and federal healthcare contexts. He reflects on leading a preventive medicine unit in the Pacific, where he effectively tackled communicable disease threats aboard the USS America. Such experiences laid the groundwork for his transition to federal healthcare roles, where collaboration and problem-solving across departments became key. Dr. States discusses the importance of building relationships in public health, offering insights into the challenges and successes of interagency cooperation.    The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Dr. States addresses public health innovations and mental health support for veterans. With marijuana rescheduling proposals and the exploration of psychedelic-assisted therapies, he provides an informed perspective on these evolving areas. Dr. States passionately advocates for comprehensive mental health care and emphasizes the need for stigma reduction and resilience-building among veterans. His reflections on leadership, personal growth, and legacy inspire listeners to pursue meaningful careers while maintaining a commitment to service and growth. Chapters: (00:04) Military Medicine Journey of Dr. States (13:14) Preventive Medicine and Federal Healthcare (20:38) Public Health Service and Interagency Collaboration (31:27) Mental Health Support for Veterans (38:30) Psychedelic Therapy for Veterans (49:25) Leadership, Personal Growth, and Legacy   Chapter Summaries: (00:04) Military Medicine Journey of Dr. States     Dr. Leith States' journey from military family to Navy preventive medicine physician, including his experience in combat and reflections on leadership and service.   (13:14) Preventive Medicine and Federal Healthcare    Nature's challenges in preventive medicine, interagency collaboration, and transitioning from military to public health roles.   (20:38) Public Health Service and Interagency Collaboration    Rescheduling marijuana in the US from Schedule I to III, role of US Public Health Service, collaboration with other agencies.   (31:27) Mental Health Support for Veterans     Stakeholder engagement, legislative processes, data evaluation, mental health support for veterans, community role, resources for PTSD.   (38:30) Psychedelic Therapy for Veterans     Veteran healthcare faces challenges in opioid alternatives and mental health treatment, with efforts for trust-building and exploring psychedelic therapies.   (49:25) Leadership, Personal Growth, and Legacy     Assuming best intentions, meeting people where they are, learning from failure, and leaving a positive legacy.   HOW TO WATCH Check out the full episode featuring Dr. States on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/QTjkw0lKWAk   Take Home Messages: Transformative Journeys and Career Shifts: The episode highlights the inspiring journey of a military medicine leader who transitioned from an aspiring Marine to a significant figure in military and federal healthcare. His path was shaped by personal experiences, such as witnessing a friend's severe illness, which redirected him towards a career in medicine. This story underscores the power of personal experiences in influencing career choices and the impact of transformative journeys on professional development. The Role of Preventive Medicine in Military Contexts: Preventive care is emphasized as a crucial component of military medicine, particularly in maintaining the health and readiness of warfighters. The episode delves into the unique challenges faced in delivering healthcare in combat zones and how preventive measures are essential for mission success. It also highlights how military experiences can prepare individuals for leadership roles in public health by developing skills like adaptability and problem-solving. Public Health Advancements and Interagency Collaboration: The discussion touches on significant public health initiatives, such as the rescheduling of marijuana to facilitate research and the role of the U.S. Public Health Service in addressing systemic health challenges. The importance of interagency collaboration, particularly between military and federal entities, is underscored as vital for managing public health emergencies and improving healthcare delivery. Mental Health Support for Veterans: The episode explores the evolving landscape of mental health resources for veterans, including innovative therapies like psychedelic-assisted treatments as alternatives to opioids. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive care, community support, and ongoing engagement with stakeholders to ensure effective mental health outcomes for veterans, highlighting the challenges of scaling and accessibility. Leadership, Legacy, and Personal Growth: The episode concludes with reflections on leadership and personal growth, advocating for resilience, trust-building, and learning from both successes and failures. The importance of assuming best intentions, building trust, and choosing challenging paths for long-term success is highlighted, along with the significance of leaving a lasting legacy through service and personal values.   Episode Keywords: military medicine, veteran healthcare, preventive care, public health leadership, mental health support, psychedelic therapy, healthcare innovation, veteran resilience, combat medicine, leadership legacy, Dr. Leith States, military aspirant, federal healthcare, veteran mental health, Operation Enduring Freedom, RIMPAC, marijuana rescheduling, PTSD treatment, Navy preventive medicine, USS America, veteran mental health resources    Hashtags: #wardocs #military #medicine #podcast #MilMed #MedEd #MilitaryMedicine #VeteranHealthcare #PreventiveCare #PublicHealthLeadership #MentalHealthSupport #PsychedelicTherapy #HealthcareInnovation #VeteranResilience #CombatMedicine #LeadershipLegacy      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  

Send us a textIn this powerful conversation, award-winning journalist turned Army officer Sarah Blake Morgan joins Joe for a raw and reflective discussion on identity, purpose, and what happens when we step away from the life we always thought we wanted.From chasing stories as a national correspondent for the Associated Press to standing in formation at Army basic training at age 31, Sarah opens up about what led her to leave a successful journalism career behind—and what she's discovered about herself in the process.In this episode, they explore:The slow erosion of purpose that pushed her out of journalismWhy sitting still has been more terrifying than the hardest assignmentThe painful process of letting go of titles, identities, and egoWhat she's learning about storytelling in uniformHow walking into the metaphorical (and literal) woods helped her find her next chapterWhether you're navigating a major transition or simply questioning what's next, Sarah's story will remind you that growth often begins where the path ends—and that it's okay to not know exactly where you're going.Sarah Blake Morgan is a storyteller and U.S. Army Reserve officer whose unconventional path took her from a successful career in television news to military service. After nearly a decade reporting for stations in Texas, North Carolina, and The Associated Press, Morgan felt stuck in a life of routine. That changed in 2020 when, inspired by a reporting trip with the 82nd Airborne Division, she decided to enlist in the Army.At 31, she completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and earned her commission through Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, beginning her journey as a military intelligence officer. Today, she balances her work serving in the special operations community with her ongoing mission to give voice to the unheard — and to discover her own evolving sense of purpose along the way.In addition to her military and journalism careers, Morgan is the creator and host of The Forgotten: After Helene, a powerful podcast uncovering the overlooked stories of those affected by Hurricane Helene.Follow her journey at @StorytellerSBM.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. 

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn welcomes Drew Sinclair, retired U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer No. 700, to share his incredible journey through the ranks of military service and beyond.From growing up as part of an Army family to earning his place among the elite as a Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer, Sinclair recounts the milestones and life-changing moments that shaped his career. He walks us through his very first rescue—a dramatic case where a car plunged off a bridge, and only a Coast Guard helicopter crew could reach the victims. That mission left a deep impression on him, and he reflects on the emotional weight that often accompanies such rescues, as well as the deep camaraderie shared among rescue swimmers.As his career progressed, Sinclair found himself in another unforgettable operation while stationed in Mobile, Alabama—just before attending Officer Candidate School. He details a rescue that involved saving nine people and two dogs, showcasing the intensity and complexity of real-world missions.Transitioning to officer, Sinclair's perspective broadened further. He shares a gripping story from his time overseeing a pollution response mission when a vessel suddenly capsized. This incident underscores the unpredictability of the marine environment and reinforces the critical importance of readiness, leadership, and teamwork.Beyond his time in uniform, Sinclair opens up about his personal transformation post-retirement. He dives into the lifestyle changes he's made, including his commitment to fitness, clean nutrition, and sobriety. With candor and passion, he talks about motivation, accountability, and a good positive mindset in his life—and how he hopes to inspire others to take control of their own health and well-being.This powerful conversation covers everything from daring rescues to personal growth, and it wraps with Drew's heartfelt advice for future generations: Stay prepared, stay motivated, and never stop striving to be your best self—both personally and professionally. Enjoy!This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Airbus, Axnes, Centum, ReadyBAR, and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.

In this riveting episode of So There I Was, we sit down with John “Apache 2-3” Haugen, a Vietnam-era Army aviator with stories that span from the draft line in 1968 to combat flying in the Mekong Delta. John shares how he dodged a ground-pounder fate by heading to Officer Candidate School, ultimately flying slicks and accumulating over 900 hours of combat flight time. With humor, humility, and gripping detail, he recounts narrow escapes, night missions, forced landings, and his close call in a mangrove swamp that led to a surreal “third man” experience. From learning in OH-23s and flying Hueys to coordinating strikes with Cobras and Puff the Magic Dragon, John's stories highlight the courage, camaraderie, and absurdities of combat aviation in Vietnam. Bonus tales include bar tabs in Manhattan, unexpected rat-kebabs, and the elusive “Hawk's” little black book. This is an episode packed with history, grit, and a whole lot of heart!

#BeAGoodFriend and check out episode #134 of #FeeneyTalksWithFriends featuring Rick Wells. It was great to talk with my good #friend, Rick! He is a financial advisor at Baystate Financial. We talked about:Ryan's Softwash (minute 1)Being a male elementary school teacher  (minute 2)Anthony's favorite teacher was Dr. Wells (minute 5)Recess games (minute 7)Dorian from Doro (minute 9)Patriotic songs  (minute 11)Earning a Doctorate in Education from The University of Hartford (minute 13)Covenant Prep (minute 16)Being the guest speaker at The All-State Riflery Dinner (minute 15)Being in the military (minute 23)Officer Candidate School (minute 26) Medal of Honor recipient, Paul Bucha (minute 28)West Point (minute 30)Being a financial advisor at Baystate Financial (minute 33)Podcast sponsors (minute 35)3 Keys (sponsored by West Hartford Lock) to being a financial advisor (minute 37)Rick's children (minute 42)Feeney at Wolcott Park (minute 49)Rob Oliver is good #friend (minute 50)Upcoming events (minute 54)Ball 4 A Cure (minute 55)Rick's favorite teachers (minute 56)“Are you down with OPP?” (minute 57)Podcast Sponsors: The Fix IV - www.thefixivtherapy.comWest Hartford Lock - www.westhartfordlock.comKeating Agency Insurance - www.keatingagency.comGoff Law Group - www.gofflawgroup.netParkville Management - www.parkvillemanagement.comLuna Pizza - www.lunapizzawh.com/lunas-menuPeoplesBank - www.bankatpeoples.comFloat 41 - www.float41.comMaximum Beverage - www.maximumbev.comSally and Bob's - www.sallyandbobs.com

In this episode, U.S. Army Maj. Kyle Schulz, a recent graduate from NPS Defense Analysis program, joins Trident Room Podcast host U.S. Army Maj. Eric Czaja for a discussion on his path to service, career trajectory leading up to his studies at NPS, and a deep dive into his research exploring sustainable agriculture in the Philippines, and how sustainable agricultural practices support a whole of government approach to advancing the Resistance Operating Concept, strengthening resilience and resistance through food security and economic stability. Maj. Schulz completed undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He received his commission as a Signal Officer through Officer Candidate School, and spent the first few years of his career supporting Psychological Operations at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After successfully completing the Civil Affairs Qualification Course he has served as a Team Leader, Company Civil Military Operations Chief, and HHC Commander within the 95th Civil Affairs Brigade and the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. He completed his master's degree in Defense Analysis, as well as a certificate in Applied Cyber Operations at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in December 2024. NPS Trident Room Podcast host U.S. Army Maj. Eric Czaja commissioned from Marquette University in 2011 as an Infantry Officer. After serving in 2nd ID at Fort Lewis, Wash., Czaja attended Special Forces Assessment and selection. After completing the Special Forces Qualification Course, Czaja was an Operation Detachment Alpha Team Leader in 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Czaja graduated from NPS in 2024, and is currently assigned to NPS as a research faculty member in the NPS Department of Defense Analysis.

This week, I catch up with Johnathan Rudy who successfully leveraged his military cyber law practice into civilian gigs, including with Geico where he now works. In this episode he recounts how his own lack of knowledge resulted in both a boot camp and Officer Candidate School experiences, and his journey from active duty Marine to working in the corporate world. John is on LinkedIn.

Kurt Schlichter is a lawyer, author, and retired Army Colonel. He served for 28 years in the Army and today is a weekly senior columnist for Townhall Media. He is also a TV commentator and the author of numeraous books including the Kelly Turnbull series. His latest novel, THE ATTACK, is available now. After college, Kurt joined the United States Army and received his commission as a second lieutenant through Officer Candidate School. While stationed in West Germany, Kurt was deployed to Operation Desert Storm serving as a platoon leader. After leaving active duty, he joined the California Army National Guard and served in various command and staff positions. Kurt served in Kosovo and was mobilized for the Los Angeles riots, the Northridge earthquake, and the 2007 San Diego fires. He is a graduate of the Army's Combined Arms Staff Service School and the Command and General Staff College and earned a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the United States Army War College. Kurt is a graduate of Loyola Law School, where he was a law review editor. To learn more about Kurt, follow him on X @KurtSchlichter. SPONSORS CRY HAVOC – A Tom Reese Thriller https://www.officialjackcarr.com/books/cry-havoc/ Bravo Company Manufacturing: Visit us on the web at http://jackcarr.co/bcm and on Instagram @BravoCompanyUSA.com SIG: Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the legendary SIG SAUER P226. Learn more here - https://jackcarr.co/SIG40thP226 Jack Carr Gear: Explore the gear here - https://jackcarr.co/gear Kurt Schlinchter,jack carr,targeted,jack carr book,the terminal list,targeted:beirut,danger close podcast,military decline,America military crisis,war strategy,battlefield readiness,leadership crisis,American dominance,military preparedness,military edge,accountability in military,defense strategy,America's readiness,Tucker Carlson,Sean Hannity,Candace Owens,Collapse,silent crisis,u.s. military,military,no one talks about,crisis,war,israel,hamas,iran

In this intimate conversation, Stephen Chamberlain, a former U.S. Coast Guard officer, small business owner, and writer, candidly discusses his personal struggles and victories. From navigating anxiety disorders to his cathartic discovery of writing and poetry, Steve opens up about his life journey. He delves into the complexities of moral injury, the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, his 40-year relationship with disordered eating and anxiety, and his pursuit of contentment through nomadic living and creative expression.Steve's raw honesty provides a unique lens into the challenges of coping with men's mental health issues while striving for fulfillment. His writing not only serves as a personal outlet but also connects him to a broader community of writers and readers interested healing and self-reflection.Timeline:* 01:28 Background and Early Life* 03:04 Struggles with Disordered Eating, Anxiety, and Joining the Coast Guard* 04:22 Life in the Coast Guard and Personal Challenges* 05:47 Post-Retirement Life and Discovering a Nomadic Writing Journey* 07:35 Exploring New Ventures and Digital Nomadism* 09:50 Writing as a Cathartic Experience* 12:41 Peer Support and Mental Health Advocacy* 17:56 Moral Injury in the Coast Guard* 38:56 Struggles with Weight and Anxiety* 40:00 Understanding Male Anorexia and Its Impact* 40:47 The Battle Between Rational and Irrational Voices* 42:38 Poetry as a Means of Control* 45:14 Exploring Psychedelics for Treatment* 47:28 The Transformative Impact of Psychedelic Experiences* 58:13 Embracing Mortality and Planning Ahead* 01:03:28 Future Plans and Other Pursuits* 01:07:13 Connecting with the AudienceConnect with Steve and his writing @ Steve's Substack Steve's Collections of Poetry: My Raven and My BlackbirdAI Machine Transcription - Enjoy the Glitches!Steve: Right off the bat, anyone who tries to write understands that writing is very difficult, but what I could do is write about my experiences. The things that I find easiest to write about are things I'm most familiar with, and the thing I'm most familiar with is what I'm feeling and thinking inside. This sounds clichéd, but it's true, cathartic and I found that relatability they feel less alone and that just encouraged me to write more. And quite frankly, if I have one person tell me that, "hey, that thing you wrote really resonated with me or helped me," I'm like a score! if I can help somebody, then it was worth putting out there.Even if nobody reads them, it felt good to get them out. And it did feel cathartic to get it out. ​I've come to the conclusion that, what I want to get out of life in my remaining years is as many moments of contentment and fulfillment as I can.[Music] Leafbox: Good afternoon, Steve. Before we start, I wanted to thank you. Even though you're a smaller publisher and you're just starting off on your journey of writing.One of the things that really stood out to me about your writing is that it feels like it's coming from a very authentic place. And, my own writing and my own efforts across life. That's one of the hardest things to find and be true to so thank you for at least expressing in a way that feels genuine and true and in today's world I think that's a harder thing to do.Before we start, why don't you just tell us, Steve, a little bit about who you are, maybe what you're writing about why you came to writing.Steve: Yeah, yeah, absolutely. I'm 57 years old, so I've been around for a little bit and my background is pretty varied.I grew up in a suburb of Boston. Irish Catholic family, first generation to move into the suburbs from South Boston and second generation of my family to actually go to college. I went to a public school, and it, it was a pretty benign suburban existence.I would say right up through my university years, I went to a commuter school, UMass University of Massachusetts in Lowell, Mass, and something I could afford in that day and age by working part time and lived at home and really had no, what I would call significant life experience. Until I left home and went to the Coast Guard's Officer Candidate School after college.But I think it is noteworthy to say that like a lot of typical families of that era, I had, it was dysfunctional, but most people have some sort of dysfunction in their family. Alcoholic dad, very much a perfectionist. Everyone in the family seemed to be driven by anxiety created by their predecessors and I picked that up as well.And it's notable to say that I developed an eating disorder in my high school years, which is a male in the 1980s I think was very eating disorders are stigmatized. Among all genders, even today, but being a guy in the 80s when there was really no infrastructure set up to, to diagnose, recognize, or treat it made it particularly challenging.And I really got into triathlons and long distance running and marathons. Got to a really unhealthy weight. And, my mom did her best to get me in with psychologists and psychiatrists, but none of them really had a handle on how to deal with somebody like me. And it, it caused quite a bit of isolation for me in high school.College was a little bit better simply because it was a commuter school and I would go do my work and come home. So I became quite a loner, but, for reasons that I can't describe other than just being impulsive in my early years, I applied after college to the Coast Guard's Officer Candidate School and somehow got in and spent about four months down in Virginia in basic training and then the next 25 years in the Coast Guard and the eating disorder I somehow managed.Gained some weight was always a little odd with my eating habits, but and very excessive with my exercise habits and very rigid as I am to this day. But those 25 years in the Coast Guard were both fulfilling and beset by a little bit of inertia. I think it's a challenging job, but and as you get more.Responsibility more senior becomes more challenging and more all encompassing, but by the same token, it's a secure job where even though you move every couple of years, the culture remains the same. So for a guy with anxiety and quite frankly, anorexia nervosa is an anxiety disorder when you get right down to it.The Coast Guard was a relatively comfortable place for me. In 2015 I was serving in Alameda and living in San Francisco, which is where you and I met. And I also retired from the Coast Guard that year. At the time I was married, but my anxiety, which demonstrated itself in those days, I think is more of a extreme dedication to work kind of a workaholism, if you would call it that really, destroyed my marriage. And by 2017, 2018, we were divorced, which was really, for me, the point in time in which I think I gained a level of self awareness that A lot of my peers do not seem to have, and I'm not trying to be, I'm not trying to brag or anything like that because I tend to surround myself with friends like you who are self aware and do look inward and do understand they have egos and those egos are rather hard to control.And but having that self awareness. This is really a great way to determine when your ego is getting the better of you. And it was the divorce that kind of opened my eyes to the fact that I had not been a good husband. That my dedication to work was one of these fleeting needs for professional affirmation that came at the expense of any sort of long term personal contentment.And it was that self awareness obtained relatively late in life, my late forties, early fifties, that led me to writing and led me to trying several other Endeavors. I worked a little bit in the wine industry for three years and learned what I could at a small five person wine startup.I impulsively bought Airstream trailer and spent about a year and a half, 2020 at the Covid years. As a matter of fact I launched my digital nomadism, as I called it in March of 2020. No, great plan to do that, but at the same time, the whole country. Pretty much shut down and spent a little over a year place really enjoying that kind of existence.And fortunately with a military pension and a small business running some companies, alcohol compliance operations, I was able to support myself. And not like minutes overhead on the Airstream trailer I had I decided to stop and go back to Massachusetts for a couple of years, rented a small house.And my mom and dad are there. They're older now. They're still in the same town I grew up in. My sisters are there. But I found after about three years there, my eating disorder had I guess I'd say I relapsed a little bit, not full scale after decades of it being more or less managed, but not certainly cured.Realized that I was going to be stuck with that for the rest of my life, but also thinking my time in Massachusetts was a good time to really become introspective, maybe more present, practice meditation investigate psychedelics which you helped me with Three years later, to be honest I didn't do it while I was there, just thought about it a lot and and really work on myself.And quite frankly, after those three years had passed I felt that I honestly, I've been inside my own head so much time that I was feeling worse, not better. And I was also feeling restless, which I did not expect to feel after decades of moving every couple of years. I thought I'd be quite ready to settle and I wasn't.So I very impulsively decided that rather than using a trailer, I'd try and see if I could do the same Nomadic existence with Airbnbs, if I could find Airbnb hosts who would rent long term to me. And right off the bat, I found somebody who gave me a two year lease on a place in Florida.But the writing really started I'd say around the time I launched in the Airstream 2020, where I started a blog about, my trip. And right off the bat, anyone who tries to write understands that writing is very difficult. In all people who write fiction I cannot write dialogue.I it's way too challenging for me. But what I could do is write about my experiences. And I think what you were getting at the beginning of this conversation was that, the things that I find easiest to write about are things I'm most familiar with and the thing I'm most familiar with is what I'm feeling and thinking inside again, something I never could have done before my divorce.But it helped me get to a place where I felt it was almost, and this sounds clichéd but it's true, cathartic to write about things that I was feeling, I was thinking and then publishing them in different venues like Substack and where I am now and Medium where I was before and getting not a lot of feedback, some feedback.And I found that relatability was on one hand, a really good hook for a personal essay because people enjoy reading things that are relatable to them. They feel less alone. I enjoy getting that feedback for obvious reasons. Somebody liked what I wrote, but also because I feel less alone while somebody else feels this way too.And that just encouraged me to write more. And I, I am not particularly skilled at poetry, and I'm really honest, I don't love reading poetry, but I decided I like the structure of poems. And I Picked up a pen and tried to write a few poems. I don't think my poetry is particularly good or particularly musical or the right words, but I do the challenge of trying to find the right words to condense into a particular structure to convey a certain idea.And that idea really shot back to relatability and I started writing some short haiku, some tankas and a couple of other poem forms about my anxiety, about not so much the eating disorder, although I have written a couple of essays about the eating disorder, but just the way I was feeling in the world.And even if nobody reads them, it felt good to get them out. And it did feel cathartic to get it out. And I haven't written poetry in a little while, but for a couple of years it was really an obsession of mine and I did get some good feedback and there were people who could relate to some of the things that I wrote and some of the metaphors that I used for my anxiety.And for, since that. Point in time, I have started a peer support company with a couple of Coast Guard veterans. Even though I've given up on myself in terms of therapy helping, I do feel better just not by not struggling so much to try and get better. That probably made me feel 10 percent better overall, but I do realize there's a need forMore health care, mental health care workers and as a component to any sort of a treatment plan peer support really resonated with me because there's evidence that shows that it works. Look at any. Substance abuse group. That's the strength in it is sitting around with people with shared experience, but it gets back to my writing too, which is relatability.If you don't feel like you're the only one feeling that way, or you're the only one with a, an addiction, or the only one who's experienced sexual trauma, and you can't tell anyone about it, but then you're in a room with people who have stories that are remarkably like yours, who feel remarkably like you do.Who who went through the same journey that you're going through. That in and of itself has a healing aspect. When I had the opportunity to start this company called Mindstrong Guardians earmarked towards the Coast Guard and Coast Guard people fall in the cracks between Department of Defense and first responders.So many folks are traumatized and don't get help. We. We felt we'd found a niche, and that leads me to today. Leafbox: Steve, could I just interrupt you? I want to talk about your poetic forms and your kind of nomadic lifestyle. But I want to go back to when you were after college, why did you just impulsively join the Coast Guard?Was that an escape for you? Or what were you looking for? Were you looking for? I'm just curious. Steve: I think I had romanticized the Coast Guard, Robert. I grew up outside of Austin. The Coast Guard Academy was in Connecticut. And There was nothing complex about it. I got my hands on a Coast Guard Academy bulletin, the front of the bulletin being the kind of booklet that describes the Coast Guard Academy to potential applicants.And the front cover was the Coast Guards has America's tall ship the Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, which is a three masted barb. And it's a sailing vessel. Very old school and it looked really cool to me. And I had spent my summers working. near my hometown in Concord, Massachusetts at a place called Minuteman National Historical Park, the old North Bridge, but they also had the homes of Emerson and Hawthorne and places where Melville had written.And I really got, and Thoreau and I really got into their writings and the idea of this. The ship that looked like it came right out of, to me at that stage, Moby Dick really appealed to me. And that's as deep as it got. I thought to myself, I'm going to go here. This is a cool school.I'm going to have this maritime life by I grew up really enjoying our, the family's annual trip from the suburb to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the seashore. And part of the reason for that is the two weeks a year, my family was on Cape Cod and we were rigid and religious about going there, nothing bad ever happened.My, my aunt and uncle were there. My cousins were there. My dad didn't drink. He hung out with us people didn't fight. They loved it. And I just associated. Even though I wasn't an ocean going guy and didn't have that background, I associated those two, two weeks a year on the beach with a calm serenity that I didn't have the 50 other weeks of the year, the 50 other weeks of the year.I was anxious about, what's my dad going to be like tonight. I don't want to go to school tomorrow. It's one thing or another. And then I'd have this two week long exhale. And for some reason, I taught that to the Coast Guard Academy. So I applied for the Academy and I didn't get in, which was no shocker.I didn't have great grades. But I kept that idea in my head and after graduating from UMass, I thought there must be another way in and there was so I drove myself to a recruiter in Boston and submitted an application and, Lo and behold, they accepted me and the acceptance wasn't a deeply thought out thing.It was just, I'll have a job and I won't have to live at home. And that's that it'll buy me a few years time because there was a three year active duty commitment after you got out. And I thought this is what I need. Otherwise, what am I going to do? Just, live in Boston all my life, or I had no plans, no aspirations, no nothing.So this was something. Yeah. I'm glad I took it, but that's as deep as it went. Leafbox: Steve, one of the essays that I really enjoyed was, maybe I have a bias too, I, I've interviewed another author who was a Coast Guard vet, and they're the forgotten branch, like you said, of the military, but one of the things you wrote about was your concept of moral injury in the Coast Guard and across I guess government employees and all branches of, employees across all groups and organizations. Could you expand on what you mean by moral injury and maybe some of the personal experiences you had during the Coast Guard? Steve: Absolutely. I'm glad you brought up moral injury because.Moral injury in general is not something that most people think about when they think about trauma. And when they do think about it, they think about the most obvious examples of moral injury. Moral injury is basically having to do something that is counter to your personal values. And having to do it, when I say that, as A matter of carrying out your responsibilities, which in public service can happen quite often.So the first place you go with that is you teach people. And I think people inherently know that killing other people or hurting other people is wrong. And suddenly you train somebody, whether they're in the army or the Marine Corps. Maybe whatever to kill other people and you put them in a position where they are, that's their job to kill other people and they end up killing other people.They have done something essentially at cross purposes with their internal values and that creates a conflict which in and of itself can develop into trauma. There are other ways that moral injury can occur, and the one I've seen most often with Coast Guard veterans is search and rescue, and my role was not being out on a boat, pulling people out of the water.My role was basically planning searches, approving search areas, figuring out What resources to send, but most of all figuring out when you had to suspend or end a search, not having found the person you're looking for and to tell the family that you're suspending the search which I've had to do three times in my career.And I've, plenty of people who have done it much more frequently than that, but you remember every time. And that there's a huge vulnerability to moral injury in. In that sort of work, because you feel like I am in a life saving organization, I joined the organization because I want to save lives, at least that's part of what the Coast Guard does.And here I am telling somebody that not only have I not saved their loved one's life, but I'm giving up.People obviously don't react well to that. That really, Increases that feeling that I have fundamentally failed at my job. I have fundamentally violated one of my core values. I would not want somebody to give up looking for my best friend, my brother, my sister, my parent, and this guy here is telling me he's given up.Now, when we suspend a search, we don't do it lightly. We keep them informed throughout the search process and prepare them for the possibility. But, we look at how long can somebody survive in water at that temperature? What are the odds of finding them? This search area expands every hour and on.So you reach a point where continued searching really isn't going to yield results. You are damn near confident that you're not going to find that person. My essay was a little bit different and surprised me because it was nothing like that and just to touch on the area that really saying it scarred me or it definitely created moral injury for me, but it was such a relatively benign event that two decades later, I still scratch my head and say, why did, why does this to this day?still make me feel emotional. And essentially, I was the, working in the U. S. Embassy in the Bahamas, which I was the Coast Guard's liaison officer there. So my job was to interact with Bahamian officials when we had essentially cross border operations going on or interdictions of smugglers and that sort of thing.And in one particular case a U. S. Coast Guard vessel intercepted a raft of Cuban refugees in Bahamian territorial seas, so we returned those people to the Bahamas. And my job was to meet the Coast Guard ship at the pier in the Bahamas to make sure there was an orderly transfer of the Cuban refugees from the U.S. Coast Guard to the Bahamian immigration officials. Thank you very much. This particular group of refugees came in on a Christmas morning. So I was in my uniform on the pier waiting for the Coast Guard ship. Coast Guard ship comes in Coast Guard. Immigration authorities are there with their vans.And I knew they would take these people to a detention center in the center of new Providence Island, where Nassau Bahamas is located. And eventually transport them back to Cuba. I'd done this before and it was routine, but there were, I remember there were 26 people and I, they came off the gangway of Coast Guard ship to the pier and there was a little girl, maybe five or six who had a doll and.I was on the gangway, and she was struggling to get up on the gangway, so she just looked at me and handed me the doll, and then I helped her up, and then walked her over the gangway and got her to the pier, and she looked at me and put her arms out again for the doll, and I gave her the doll back, and then she and the rest of the people got in the van and went to the detention center, and I never saw them again.I went home that day after that, and 20 years later, that still makes me feel sad, and I still wonder about that girl, and I feel like this isn't what I signed up to do. I didn't sign up to take this person whose family had placed her on this unsafe raft, pushed her into the water, to head to the U.S. with an unknown outcome. And suddenly she's in the Bahamas, not even her family's intended location for her and going to a detention center at age of five or six. And it wasn't a brutal detention center, but it wasn't pleasant. I had been there several times. It was barracks, basically, in the middle of the island with razor wire around it.And then back to Cuba, where she may or may not be. Reintroduced to whatever family she had, and it just felt so out of line with any reason I had to have joined the Coast Guard or any personal value. I felt at the time and throughout my 25 years, I compartmentalize things and. desensitize myself to things like this, but that one I was never able to do it.And like I said, I've done Mexican notifications that haven't bothered me that much. Yeah I wrote my essay on that, but I think the Coast Guard really does, as you said, is the forgotten service because people assume that, hey, if you're not being shot at, what do you have to complain about?And I see Coast Guard veterans all the time with untreated PTSD from doing the things that Coast Guard people do which are very similar to things first responders do. And often they're 18, 19 year old people out there in the front lines, and they're either, shooting an engine out of a smuggling vessel to stop it, or they're trying to find somebody that they don't end up finding, or they find somebody after they passed away, or they find somebody after a horrible boating accident and, all of these things are traumatic in their own right, but when When you say that, Hey, I didn't sign up to come out and shoot people.I signed up to save people and I didn't save this person. I guess that's where my story comes home to roost is I didn't save this person. I just made life a lot worse for this person and it doesn't feel good. I just didn't expect it to not feel good. 20 years later. Leafbox: Does the Coast Guard now have the same culture? You wrote another essay about I think it's called mental personal protective equipment, the mPPE. What's the current state of like when you talk to vets at your officer level, are you finding the same kind of Moral injury and trauma that's manifesting. How are they expressing it? Or are they, alcoholism? What are the issues that other vets are really facing now? Steve: Yeah, that's a great question. Because I think culturally there have been incremental changes, but the Coast Guard, like the other services is very much suck it up type environment always has been. It's a little less. So now the Coast Guard has created a cadre of mental health providers that are accessible.Mental health is a little less stigmatized, but it's far from where it needs to be. And I think it's worth noting that particularly an officer in the military, and that includes the Coast Guard, we all know and refer to our careers as zero defect environments. And I knew that, and that just stokes up anxiety that you're going to make a mistake.And a mistake is, hey, my search pattern was wrong and somebody drowned. You start to become more worried about your career than somebody drowning. The slightest mistake can end your career. And it really is your defect. So when it comes to the stigmatization of mental illness, no officer wants to acknowledge it.And what the Coast Guard has done is created a little more access. to mental health support, but has done nothing substantial about changing the culture. So if I were in the Coast Guard right now I would never acknowledge having a high level of anxiety, never acknowledge having an eating disorder.I never acknowledge any sort of mental illness as an officer in the military, because that is a career ender in most cases. Less so now, but still culturally, there is a fear. I'm going to lose my security clearance if I go to see, seek help. If I go to a therapist, I know a lot of what they do now, Robert and have done for years is go out privately and pay out of pocket.And yeah, I have a good friend who is an excellent Coast Guard lawyer, but he suffers from severe depression. And the Coast Guard doesn't know this. He is on SSRIs, and the Coast Guard doesn't know this. And he has, in his particular case, SSRIs, antidepressant drugs, pharmaceuticals, and therapy.He views them as having been life saving. For him knowledge to the Coast Guard that he is receiving therapy or using this medication because real or not, he is fearful that it would end his career and so that's one way of coping with it. And that's probably the healthiest way of coping with it. Outside of the Coast Guard, I've met veterans who are alcoholics or use alcohol as a crutch.And simply don't seek help because we fall into that trap too, where we feel like we're sucking resources away from some young combat vet in the army. If I see a therapist at the veterans administration, and I may be entitled to do that, I am. Because I'm one of the five, six armed services now, but most Coast Guard people I've talked to when we were developing our company, our peer support company felt like I don't want to steal resources from, from the army, from the Marines, from these people who really deserve it when I don't deserve it.And that's, and as a result, they're untreated. And when you're untreated and you've suffered trauma, you live a life of suffering. That is in many cases, unnecessary if you the right treatment. So I think in the Coast Guard, this is particularly acute, but I think across all the services, when you look at the suicide rate of military veterans in general there's no argument that something isn't happening here and it's not just.I was in a combat area and I saw really bad things. It's that you have to move every couple of years that families are always under strain. That, it's hard enough to maintain a marriage when you're in a more stable environment. It's really challenging when one person's At home and unable to start a career because you're moving every couple of years for your career and deployments are extremely stressful where you don't see your family for, 12, 15 months at a pop.It's a stressful existence in general. It's worthwhile and fulfilling in many ways, but from a personal standpoint it's, it can be. That's the best answer I can give. And then Steve, you didn't do any writing when you were in service, right? So this became a post divorce liberation escape?Steve: Yeah. It, I couldn't have done it, Robert. I utterly lacked the introspection that I needed to do. I, that I needed to sustain my marriage. I didn't, I realized that my being a workaholic was not good for my marriage, but it was a blind spot for me. I thought in the future.And I, I don't think I would have it's funny because had we stayed married, I'd still be rather obtuse when it came to introspection. I probably never would have started writing. So it's the divorce spurred the self awareness and the self awareness spurred the writing. Leafbox: And then what's the response? You're writing a Medium and Substack. Have you shared essays and poems and other writing with vets or how are they responding to writing as a release? Steve: There are some vets who see my writing and it's funny because on Substack they usually come to me via email directly if they like something or something resonated with them rather than say anything on Substack directly.But it hasn't really resonated in particular with veterans. Some of the things I write about, anxiety is universal in, in our culture anyway. It, I would say extreme anxiety, anxiety over things that you look at and you're like, why am I anxious over this, that I had to do this today when this is relatively easy to get time.But I've also found that, if you eliminate and avoid the big things, then the anxiety is just as intense with the little things. So that's some of the stuff that I write about. But I will say I really hesitated to put anything out there about the eating disorder because of the stigma associated with men.And eating disorders. I only recently put something out on Substack because I just got to a point where I'm like, you know what, if it helps somebody, great. If a few folks didn't know about it haven't come across it, then they can ask me questions about it. But I do feel awkward. I feel embarrassed.I'm a guy, I'm not supposed to have an eating disorder. I even feel that way. And I've had it for 40 years. But I also realized that, you know what, if I live another 20, 30 years I'm going to have it. It's not going away. So I think I just have to come to some sort of accommodation. An acceptance of that. I'm not saying it's untreatable. It is treatable. It's tough to treat anorexia, but I've just decided that, therapies I've tried for anxiety haven't been particularly effective for me. So that's just a personal choice I've made. Leafbox: I think, all the writers I gravitate towards and I interviewed, I think one of the main things I appreciate is when they're truly honest.And even though you have these issues of shame and anxiety, I think it resonates that it's coming from a place that feels very genuine. So thank you. For listeners, can you give us, I don't know much about male anorexia. What does that manifest as? Is that kind of like an Adonis complex similar to bodybuilders or what does this mean? . Steve: Yeah, that, that was spot on. There is. Another disorder, and I don't know the name of it, for young male adolescents who want to get big, so to speak. They're obsessed with getting large. For me, it was more insidious than that. And in my teens, I saw my dad as an alcoholic.Now I look back at my dad and I'm like, wow, we're exactly the same. He was a highly anxious perfectionist like me. And like most anxious people, he didn't like uncertainty and like it's full of uncertainties and he would self medicate with alcohol. And I thought, I don't want to be anything like that.I want to be the opposite. Right at the beginning of the running craze in the U S I decided I don't know. I was maybe 15, 16 I was gonna start running. And I started running and the reason was, so I, cause I didn't want to be like my dad. I wanted to be healthy. And then that kind of transitioned into, I'm going to eat healthier too.And I'm going to make my own food. And then I got very strict about what I ate, not with an intent to lose weight just to with, I'm not going to eat junk anymore. In the 70s and the 80s, that was particularly tough. Everything was processed and prepackaged. But I found so I became very choosy.And because of the running and the desire to eat healthy, which were honest and good and benign at first. I lost weight for some reason. As I lost weight, Robert, I found it anathema to, I just didn't want to gain it again. I didn't even think of it as a disorder. It was like, no, if I'm losing weight and I'm out participating in triathlons, which were evolving in the eighties as a thing.And, I was doing five or six triathlons a summer up in Massachusetts and I was 19 by the time I really hit my peak triathlon years. And I ran Boston marathon in 1990 in two hours and 40 something minutes. And that was walking a lot the last six miles. And I thought I could really do something here.And the weight loss, while I don't think contributing to it, probably undermining my performance. I looked at that as. Helping me excel. I'm like if I'm losing weight and I'm running sub two Boston marathons, what could I do if I lost more weight and trained more? So that is how it came on. I didn't even really think of it as an eating disorder, and it wasn't really discussed in those days.But when I look at some of the I've destroyed every photograph I could find of myself in those days because I looked emaciated. I saw my high school yearbook picture and Honestly, Robert, I was, I'm six foot tall. I think I had gotten down to about 128, 127 pounds. I was obviously malnourished, but I didn't think of it that way.I thought this is the path to better performance, more exercise. More strictness with my food. And of course all my triathlon heroes were eating this way. And I thought this is the way I got to go. The Coast Guard interrupted that. And somehow I got up to by my thirties, about 170 pounds.I was happy with that. I was okay with it. I even wanted to gain more, I felt healthy. I felt good. And then. As I gained more responsibility in the Coast Guard I my anxiety drove me less or drove me away from strength training, which was the only thing really maintaining my, my, my physique to just endurance training, which eased my anxiety.And, my weight dipped a little bit, but it was okay when I left the Coast Guard. And then, COVID comes along and I'm in the airstream and starting to feel really weak and never weighing myself because I had anxiety about getting on scale. It was either too heavy or too light, one or the other.But I sat for a year in the airstream when I went to see the doctor about why I felt so exhausted all the time that I dropped I don't know, 12, 13 pounds from the time I started the airstream and that just re sparked the whole thing in my head. So the thing that I thought I was at least managing, I wasn't managing, but anorexia to answer your question, because I straight away from that is it's the same.It's, bulimia is where you purge anorexia is got its purge element, but the purges exercise and calorie control. And I it's the same in men as it is in women. It's a control thing. It's an anxiety disorder. It is the, I've got no control over what's happening in the world. I can't control what's happening in my body, but it's not articulated that way.And I think the best way to articulate it every man or woman I've talked to with anxiety with anorexia. Has, and I've written about this. I don't know if I've published the most recent one yet as two voices in their head, and I call it a rational voice, which knows what I should be doing to live a healthy life.And the fact that I am undernourished even to this day and the irrational voice, which is. Hey you're doing fine. You're surviving like this. Why would you want to gain any more weight? It's irrational, but it wins every time. It, my metaphor is the irrational voice always ends up with it.It's booed on the neck of the rational voice. And I, I don't know how to overcome that, but I have found that to be universal with anorexia sufferers, and they have the two voices in their head, and the irrational voice always seems to win and people who don't have it, they don't win.Can't understand how I can look in the mirror or anyone who's under nurse can look in the mirror and feel that they are overweight. Even when your rational voice is there, you screaming at you that you are fine. In fact, you need to gain a few pounds that living a life where you're under 6 percent body fat every day.Maybe that's why you're cold all the time. Steve, is not a healthy way to live. I have osteoporosis now. If I had been a smoker or had been somebody who ate bad foods and had a heart disease, I'd do something. But with the osteoporosis, the irrational voice just argues it away. And I'm like, no, but that came because I've been undernourished and over exercising.And that's going to be a problem as I age. It's an irrational disease that's born of anxiety and control. And unless you're there, you can't really get it, but I will say it. It's got the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, I think even more so than depression. Leafbox: Steve going back to your poetry, I just, do you see a parallel?I was surprised by all the poems have very structured, you have haikus, tankas, minkas, something called the cinquain , which I've never heard of before. But all these very structured. So is that a release? How does it interact with your control issues? Steve: It's, it's a manifestation of control issues.It's; I'm glad you brought that up. You're the first person to actually see that. As I said earlier, I'm not a poet. I don't, I'm not particularly creative from my perspective. What attracted me to poetry and in particular to very structured poems, haiku is simple, but I'm like, wow, you have to say as much as you can say using that 5, 7, 5 syllable structure.I like that. It's, it feeds that desire to be in control. It's a challenge and it is spot on. A manifestation and one could say you're not doing anything to, do some free verse. And it's now I don't want to do free first. I, that scratches my itch to do a haiku or a tanka and yeah, you're spot on.It's. You call it OCD, call it anxiety, call it what you will. That's what it is. But I, I honestly don't, I've accepted it. I'm like, fine. It gives me a moment of fulfillment to get that out there. It gives me, however long it takes me to generate the poem a period of contentment. And I've come to the conclusion that, what I want to get out of life in my remaining years is as many moments of contentment and fulfillment as I can.Because what else is there, and I, struggling to fix myself wasn't working. So writing a haiku and spending a couple of hours on it or whatever it takes does that for me. And I'm like, fine, I'll take it. If my OCD, pursuing my OCD and straightening up the picture on the wall gives me a feeling of contentment, I'll take it.Because. Time is finite, and you really begin to realize that when I think for me, when you get close to 60, you're like, wow, there, there's a window of time here, just be as content as possible for as often as possible and accept the discontent is just a contrast. So you appreciate the contented periods, Leafbox: Steve, maybe we could talk about, I wanted to see how you would. Free flow for prose, but maybe we can talk about your experience with psychedelics and how that maybe was the opposite of control. Steve: Yeah, absolutely. I became interested in psychedelics during my period in Massachusetts that affixed me period as a potential cure for anxiety, OCD, is like many people you're watching documentaries about the effectiveness of psychedelics for certain mental health conditions.But when I got to that point where I'm like, you know what, I'm just going to accept myself as I am, I still was interested in psychedelics as an experience, but I didn't want to hang my head on the idea that I'd come out of a, a trip and be suddenly cured of anxiety. That to me would have just led to disappointment.It's unrealistic. And I actually talked to you and my big concern was trying to sort a good guide. Who would provide me with good support. I didn't want a therapist at this period of time with, because the psychedelic trip to me was about preparation. It's about set and setting.It's about being self aware. It's about being a lot of things and not just taking some mushrooms and, wherever you happen to be and saying, wow, that was a great trip. Like you would drink a beer or something. So I found you helped me find a location in Oregon. And I hired a good guide and we did a lot of preparation and a lot of attention setting, and because I was flying from Florida to Portland, I decided to have two trips during a 10 day period.And I self prepared, the location, the setting was incredible. And that, that was huge. I couldn't have done this in an improper location. It was quiet, it was peaceful. It was a port Portland craftsman house and the room was comfortable and safe. And my guide was with me the whole time.And the first.I, and it became this battle with me. It was a moderate dose of psilocybin. It was it was for, therapeutic dose, but not extreme. And I just, For some reason went into it, not really having expectations, but thinking as soon as it hit me, I'm like, I'm, it was Steven anxious, Steve, they're saying, I'm not going to let something control.I'm not going to let it control me. I flexing and unflexing my muscles the whole time. And while I felt it was a significant event, I certainly didn't get the most out of it. So three days later, I go back. We agree on a much larger dose and I had really focused on not fighting it. The most significant experience I ever had in my life, Robert, why I couldn't articulate it to you.It's like I was saying about anorexia. If you haven't been there, you don't get it. People who have experienced psychedelics will get it. It wasn't easy for it, but it was definitely ecstatic. It was unifying, but not in a blissful way. It was, if I had to describe it physically, it was a series of fever dreams that would start and stop with the guide's soundtrack, every new track would end one fever dream and start another, I don't even remember a lot of what was going on, but I do remember feeling so gratified that I hadn't tried to fight it, that I did feel this unification, this oneness that I.I had what you call an afterglow for several days. On my flight home, I was talking to people at the airport bar while waiting for my flight. I don't do that. I was had striking up conversations with people. I'm a good flyer, but I don't like turbulence. When the plane hits turbulence, I get anxious about it.Plane hit a lot of turbulence in the way home. It didn't. latest, it was just this acceptance. What happens for the next week. I would say I was more clearly not just, I think I'm more empathetic. It was, I was more empathetic and a nicer person. Did it wear off? Yeah. But, Oh my God. The fact that a week after this experience.I still feel this glow is just incredible. And I would say coming out of the trip that afternoon I felt exhausted and it's like finishing a marathon, if you ask me as I'm just ending the run, if I'm going to do it again, I'm going to tell you, no, never, that's, it was horrible.Never. But if you ask me two hours later, I'm going to be like, yeah, absolutely. Yeah. That this is the most significant experience of my life. I could go into detail about what I experienced, but there's nothing really to tell that would knock anybody's socks off. I think it's just, if you've done it you get what I'm saying.And if you haven't done it I look around at people, my peers, ex military guys who I know will never try it. I feel bad for them. I'm like you're never going to get to, wow. And I want to do this. It's something I don't want to do frequently, but I want to do it regularly. And did it cure my anxiety?No, but I wasn't trying to cure my anxiety. It was to this day, I will be, I am grateful that I did it. And I'm interested in trying, ketamine or, Nor am I a PTSD sufferer who might benefit from MDMA, which I think shows great promise, but psilocybin and hallucinogenics strike me as just very cliché and mind opening and they are.Leafbox: Steve, when you came back from your trip, how has it affected your creativity in writing? You keep saying that you're not creative, but you're sharing and producing. So did you feel more free? Steve: Yeah, I think I've always felt free and open with my writing. And I think I was self aware enough that some folks said did you have any revelations when you were dripping?And I thought, no, not really. I, I kind of have explored all that stuff, but I wasn't expecting that. Yeah, there was this I did, I wrote a poem or two about the experience. I was exuberant and excited about the world of psychedelics. I think I even talked to you about what more can I do in this field?It, my, my writing has always been open, but I think done it, and then I wrote an essay about it on Substack Ever. I don't think, for example, I would have published. A piece on my eating disorder. Had I not just gone through that and thought, why not? Again if the idea is somebody may benefit from it.And a few people may think less of me because of it, then it's worth putting it out there. And I don't think I would have done that had I not had the psychedelic experience. I think there is an element of a psychedelic trip that kind of, I don't want to say green lights you to be more expressive and more open, but reveals to you the fact that there's minimal downside and a lot of upside to being more open and honest.And quite frankly, if I have one person tell me that, hey, that thing you wrote really Resonated with me or helped me. I'm like, if there were 10 haters out there, I've written some things on white privilege, and there are a lot of haters who have gotten back to me on that. But 10 haters to one person saying that you helped me.I'm like a score, if I can help somebody, then it was worth putting out there. So I think it just pushed me over the edge, Robert, where I felt comfortable on that. In writing about the eating disorders and putting it out there. Leafbox: Do you also, I think, some of your writing I'm curious about, you have a lot of animals in your poetry.Do you ever think about that? Or, there's a psychedelic parallel. Some of the the tropes of psychedelics, the coyote. So I'm curious if there's any, what's the use of animals in your poetry and writing? Steve: The animals and the most frequent one I use are actually just literary metaphors that resonate with me. That that no one would be surprised that, a coyote, even if it's a relatively benign animal. It's it's, it implies a threat. For me, the raven and the blackbird are the animals I go to the most in part, because I do the of Edgar Allen Poe. And of course, he's, most famous for the raven, but the raven struck me as the perfect metaphor for anxiety, a raven circling over your head and digging its talents into you the blackbird.Struck me as a perfect metaphor for depression. I can't tell you why, not really, the origins of these metaphors are not in, in psychedelics as much as they are in just starting out with a literary interest that I fancy in terms of being great ways in my head to articulate an abstract idea. And I don't know if everybody gets it, the Raven being a metaphor for anxiety is a way to make anxiety physical and real.And they'reobviously a good way to to express anxiety. But the raven, I think works and it works for me. And I've often wondered, Robert, I'm like, I wonder if anybody even understands what I'm putting out, not because it's particularly complex, but just because it's particularly personal and people may not, I think the poem you referred to with the coyote was serenity, where I was describing a benign, serene walk or something like that.And then the coyote appears. I'm like it's, That's the uncertainty of anxiety, even butting into that moment and always around the bend, like what's going to happen now, Leafbox: What's paradoxical is all of those animals are also quite free, right? And then going back to what you said about joining the Coast Guard, there's an element of that freedom in the ocean, the sailing, the kind of, And I think you have another poem that I enjoy called Quietus this about good sailing.Yeah. Yeah. And it seems like there's a, you're always, I don't want to personalize it or psycho Freudian read it, but there seems to be an element of desire for freedom and exploration. And the coyote itself is an animal that's quite stoic and free from exploring the West, and the Raven as well.Steve: They are. And you're, Your insightfulness is pretty remarkable because throughout my period of time working with a therapist several years ago, I kept telling the therapist, I'm like, the guy I want to be is the guy who just, I want to put on some weight. I want to relax a little bit.I want to smoke an occasional cigar, a little vice that I like. I don't want to worry about everything. I ride a motorcycle now. Why? Because I feel a sense of freedom on that motorcycle, a sense of happiness and contentment on that motorcycle that I don't get any other time of the day. While I say I've accepted my anxiety, I have because I'm tired of struggling against it.You're spot on and I hadn't really thought of the freedom of the animals that way, but the guy I want to be is, I, you look at motorcycle culture and yeah, there's the outlaw motorcycle culture, but there's also this, Motorcycle clubs originated not to break the law, but just this people who just didn't want to be tethered.The way I live now, I can pack all my belongings in a Subaru hatchback. I don't own stuff and that's by choice. But there's an element of, I'm struggling to be this guy who is that freak coyote, but also burdened with this anxiety that, that lashes me to a routine that is predictable and secure.Leafbox: You know what? It's a contradiction. Yeah. One of the freeing things that interests listeners is that you told me the story about grave buying and how that might be an act of freedom. Steve: Yeah. Yeah. This is something that most people don't understand. I referring back to earlier in our conversation when I say Cape Cod was our vacation place where nothing bad ever happened.There is that town on the Cape that we. We always visited Brewster, Massachusetts. I got it in my head that, I want a green burial. I articulate this to family and friends who I brought into the conversation as I just don't want to be a burden. I'm a single guy with no kids.And if something happens to me, I don't want it to be a pain in the neck for anybody to have to deal with it. So that's why I'm doing this. But the real reason I'm doing it is because I'm picking my place. And I bought a, the only real estate I own is a 10 by 10 plot in an old sea captain's cemetery in Brewster, Massachusetts on Cape Cod.And it gave me such a feeling of happiness to do it and they're like what that's, we don't talk about that in, in our society. But for me, it's no I went out this summer, I was up visiting and I went to see it. And it made me happy to know I had it. And the gentleman who I who's on the cemetery commission said, if there's a stone cutter in town, this is Cape Cod's old school stone cutter who can, do a tombstone for you if you want it.And I'm like sure. I, why not design my own tombstone? And I hate to admit, I paid a lot of money, like 10, 000 bucks for an old colonial slate tombstone. And I am in a joking way, using an image from Poe's poem the Raven on that tombstone. And a Raven. And the word nevermore, which anyone who's read the poem will understand.And, then my information and this stonecutter is going to put it up for me. I've told very limited people that because people really think it's over the top. But again, my, my family members who would be left handling it. I'm like this way, exactly where it is and you can, it just makes it easier for you.But you, I am serious in that. I'm going to have a small celebration of life party, for myself at that location next year with that tombstone up. It might be just me and my sisters or my niece, or, the folks who gather down there every year.But I thought what's the point of not being there for that? It, there is it's a place to rest and I don't mean this. And I tell people this, I look at death as a. When I'm feeling particularly anxious as there'll be an end to it, just like I opened my eyes during the psychedelic experience when I was getting fatigued.I'm ready for it. And then I saw my guide there. And I'm like, we talked about this. It does end. Don't panic. It will end. And right now you want it to end because you've been at it for six hours or so. And I look at death the same way. There's an end. I don't look at it. It's not a suicidal ideation.And that's, if I tell anybody that, Robert, that's straight, that's the place to go. Is or you're gonna hurt yourself. I'm like, no, I'm not gonna hurt myself. It just calms me down to know that there's an end. You And I don't want to struggle like this forever. So yeah I'm a member of a Swiss organization called Dignitas, which performs assisted suicide.My fear is Alzheimer's, like if that hits me and I'm still cognizant, but diagnosed that to me is a relief. I'm like, okay, I feel better. And I am, as I said earlier, trying to find ways to feel more contented. And I'm like, I've taken care of these things. Part of it is I'm on planner.That's what anxiety does. But there is an element of fulfillment in doing these things that is indescribable. And I it's just so out of bounds for what we can talk about in our culture that it's hard to really describe that to people without them thinking, Oh, you bought a grave and a tombstone and you signed up for this Dignitas company and assisted suicide and people just assume the worst.And it's no, this is the best. This is the best. I hope I live another 30 years if I'm not lucky. That's my plan. But if something intervenes, I'm okay with this. I guess the way I put it is I'm terrified of dying, but I have no fear of death. If that makes sense. The moment itself is.Creates some anxiety as it should. But the after part of it, I'm like, no, it's, call it what you want, call it a Buddhist Nirvana. But yeah, that's I've done that. And I'm just waiting to see what the stone cutter comes up with. Leafbox: Steve, you said for positive reformation that you want to live in another 30 years, what do you imagine filling the next 30 years with? You have your peer support group you've started and what other projects do you want to focus your attention on more writing, less writing, more trips. So what do you imagine for the next 30 years? Steve: And I'm just putting that out. So I know one thing I learned when I left the coast guard, which might be a surprise is I will never see that my schedule was very structured there, and I think that was helpful.To me in anybody's schedule at work, you've got to be a place from this hour to that hour. And then if you lose that structure, a lot of people are lost. I thought I'd be one of them, but I'm really, I'm not I will not cede my schedule to anybody else, but what. And, but I think I did struggle a little bit with when I left the winery, which was a full time job I was in the airstream.So that occupied a lot of my time, but there was this notion of, what are you going to do for the rest of your life? But I've resolved that. And I think I'll write about the same. I'll be at that same level of productivity that I am right now, but I dabble in a variety. You and I've talked about this small businesses that I think matter.I've done some venture capital in areas that are meaningful to me. Climate and healthcare. I am always looking for opportunities to do work. That's interesting to me. I'm helping a buddy in town with a brewery startup, a distillery. Didn't have to do that. I just find these opportunities to occupy myself and I don't get so hung up on having to leave some sort of a legacy.It's just what I pursue, the things that make me curious right now. And the things that make me curious right now may or may not make me curious in a couple of years. I've got motorcycle trips planned. I might go back to the Airstream thing when I can't ride motorcycling. I've got these things laid out that will occupy me, but none of them are of the traditional.I gotta go back and get a job, so I'm not bored all the time. I seem to find an endless number of things that are of interest to me. And I'm not really thinking out that I glance at it every now and again, 20 to 25 years, but my days seem pretty full and I just don't worry about it. I think I'll be in this house in St.Augustine for the next two years. Where am I going to go after that? What's the next Airbnb going to be? And. And that's, in fact, I was out in Portland for the psychedelic experience and I thought how it is freeing knowing I could come up with Portland. I want to. Nothing's binding me to any particular place.And these it's future thinking. Yes. But not 20 to 25 year future thinking. I don't have a 20 to 25 year plan. And that to me is way less overwhelming. It's just a loose structure for the next couple of years. And I think the thing I just occurred to me as I was saying that is there are elements in my life that are so controlled that it's, calcified my daily routine.And then there are areas of my life that are so impulsive that it's it's 180 degrees from my calcified day. And I'd be at a loss to explain why except one is a reaction to the other. Leafbox: It's just coming back to the animals. I just keep thinking of the coyote. Steve, how can people find you? What's the best way for them to read your essays and connect with you? Steve: I would love more free subscribers on Substack. I have no intention of making any money on Substack. And I think you just have to type in my name which, Is Steven with a P H and Chamberlain C H A M B E R L I N. And do a search for a guy with a beard was my photo.And I would also love anyone who subscribes to be open and free about commenting or criticizing or starting a conversation I'd like. Some more engagement on some stack for no other reason than I like to engage with people that way. And I'd like to know I'm helping people or what I could do better.So sub stack is really the predominant location for me. And the easiest way to find me and DM me if you're a bit interested in that. Leafbox: Great. And Steve, anything else you want to share? Steve: Gratitude that you asked me to do this, Robert, I've always looked up to you and considered you a role model and a mentor and so appreciate.And I'm honored that you felt it was something worth taking your time today to talk to me. Leafbox: No, no, I really appreciate the like raw and honest writing that you're doing. And everyone's on a journey, so I appreciate your struggle. Get full access to Leafbox at leafbox.substack.com/subscribe

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Marine veteran and author Isaac Lee. From the crucible of Officer Candidate School to the intense challenges of combat, Isaac shares his experiences of leadership, brotherhood, and overcoming adversity. Discover how journaling and a strong support network helped him balance military life with family and find purpose after service. Learn practical strategies for building resilience, fostering teamwork, and prioritizing mental health. This episode offers a powerful blend of personal narrative and actionable insights.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE How Isaac's meticulous habit of journaling throughout his military career laid the groundwork for his book, “Hangar 4” Difficulties Isaac faced in juggling a demanding military career and family life, and how he overcame them. Importance of intense training and the unbreakable bonds formed with fellow pilots A gripping account of Isaac's first combat flight experience The value of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in the military   RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED Hangar 4 by Isaac G. Lee | Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback   Subscribe to Ready 4 Pushback's YouTube channel and Spitfire Elite's newsletter for a chance to win a FREE copy of Isaac's book, “Hangar 4.” Email proof of subscription to podcast@spitfireelite.com within 5 days of this episode's publication, and you could be the one to win!   ABOUT LIEUTENANT COL. USMC (Ret.) ISAAC G. LEE  Isaac G. Lee grew up in Lubbock, Texas. A graduate of Texas Tech University, he departed for Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in the summer of 1997. His two decades as an officer and aviator resulted in seven overseas deployments, which included four combat tours of duty in the Middle East. The veteran combat aviator served as the Commanding Officer of an operational CH-53E squadron prior to his retirement from the Marine Corps in 2017. Isaac and his family reside in San Diego, California, where he works as an operations executive. When he isn't volunteering to help his fellow veterans, he spends his free time with loved ones and enjoys baseball and football.   CONNECT WITH LIEUTENANT COL. USMC (Ret.) ISAAC Website: Isaac G Lee   CONNECT WITH US Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don't wait until it's too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!   If you want to recommend someone to guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!   SPONSOR Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US. If you're a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call 704-717-9300 ext 120 to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®. Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.

Finding and fighting against national security threats is a crucial job. In any election cycle, it's even more necessary as political enemies and disinformation can pose serious threats to our democratic process. As a career veteran and defense specialist, Vance Cryer helps spotlight the threats we may face in the intersection between polarization and national defense and how we can overcome them. Vance describes America's external threats, what they stand to gain by a weakened America, and how they are using America's division as a tool to undermine democracy.Vance Cryer was born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1968. To help pay his way through school, Vance worked as a journeyman plumber and also helped his grandfather in a business that prewired new houses for telephone service. During his first semester of school, he joined the Air Force ROTC. He then got a job at the local airport filling airplanes with gas and scraping bugs off windshields, using the cash he earned to pay for flying lessons thereby fulfilling his lifelong dream of being a pilot. By the end of that first semester, he contracted with the Marines to compete for one of two slots in north Texas for Officer Candidate School. Vance's 27-year career with the Marines took him through flight school in Pensacola, Florida; to Top Level School at the National War College in Washington, D.C., where he earned a master's degree in national strategic studies; to four AV-8B squadron tours, including as the commanding officer of Marine Attack Squadron 211. He completed six combat tours in Iraq and served two tours of duty at the Pentagon-Headquarters Marine Corps in the Department of Aviation. In 2013, he was promoted to colonel and commanded the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Pendleton. In 2016, he was handpicked by Secretary Ray Mabus as the Marine Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy.In August 2018, Vance retired from active duty in the Marine Corps and is now serving as a Director for Special Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control (MFC). He serves as the liaison between MFC and Lockheed Martin Aerospace, working on the leading edge of missile and sensor technologies and future capabilities.Thank you to Starts with Us for their collaboration on this series. Starts with Us is an organization committed to overcoming extreme political and cultural division. Check them out at startswith.us.

Bill Peters was commissioned in the Marine Corps via Officer Candidate School.  After completing the Basic School at Quantico, Virginia, he was assigned to Vietnam as a platoon commander in First Force Reconnaissance Company in 1969.  Peters conducted twenty-three long-range patrols in enemy-controlled territory, was wounded, and decorated for bravery. He tells the story in “First Force Recon Company: Sunrise at Midnight.”

In Episode 10 of Ninety-Pound Rucksack, host Christian Beckwith explores how John McCown and his fellow citizen-soldiers overcame traditional military doctrine to prepare for mountain warfare—and in the process, reshaped the Old Army into one of the mightiest forces the world had ever known. Show Notes and Resources: www.christianbeckwith.com The episode includes interviews with Ninety-Pound Rucksack Advisory Board Members: Lance R. Blyth: Command Historian of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM); Adjunct Professor of History at the United States Air Force Academy. David Little: “living historian” for the Tenth Mountain Division Foundation. Sepp Scanlin: military historian and museum professional; served as the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Museum's Museum Director. Key Points: The draft and the enlistment of citizen soldiers changed the US Army from a rigid, authoritarian, all-volunteer institution into one of the mightiest forces the world had ever known. The development of Officer Candidate School (OCS) created an industrial-style assembly line that produced junior leaders to lead the citizen army into combat. The innovative Junior Officers' Plan, which was developed to train officers for the mountain troops and then return them to the unit, preserved institutional knowledge critical to the mountain troops' ability to fight in cold weather and mountainous terrain. A specialized division designed to fight in extreme conditions had to adapt the Army's standard flatland, warm-weather military strategies to mountain warfare. Featured Segments: A vivid recreation of a conversation between John McCown and his peers at Ft. Benning, Georgia, highlighting: their takeaways from Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union and the impact of winter on his army's defeat their frustrations with traditional Army tactics and its inability to recognize the importance of specialized training their resolve to embody the change they knew the mountain troops would need in order to fulfill its mandate An overview of the Army's transformation from an all-volunteer force into one led by citizen-soldiers like John McCown. Detailed analyses of Officer Candidate School, the Junior Officers Plan and the need for a purpose-built encampment for the mountain troops. Patron Support: A special thank you to our community of patrons for making our research possible. Join us at www.patreon.com/NinetyPoundRucksack to support the show and access exclusive content. Sponsorship Acknowledgments: CiloGear: Makers of the finest alpine backpacks. Visit cilogear.com and use code "rucksack" for a 5% discount and a matching donation to the American Alpine Club. Snake River Brewing: Wyoming's oldest and America's most award-winning small craft brewery. Discover their beers at snakeriverbrewing.com. Partnership Acknowledgments: The 10th Mountain Division Foundation: The mission of the Tenth Mountain Division Foundation is to honor and perpetuate the legacy of the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division past, present, and future by doing good works that exemplify the ideals by which they lived.  American Alpine Club: Supporting climbers and preserving climbing history for over 120 years. Learn more at americanalpineclub.org. The Denver Public Library: The Denver Public Library: The Denver Public Library's 10th Mountain Division Resource Center is the official repository for all records and artifacts related to the World War II-era 10th Mountain Division. The 10th Mountain Division Descendants: The 10th Mountain Division Descendants: The 10th Mountain Division Descendants, Inc. exists to preserve and enhance the legacy of the WWII 10th Mountain Division and 10th Mountain Division (LI) for future generations.

The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association. During this episode, US Army Major Michael Zequeira discusses his Army Command and General Staff research entitled: the Effects of Social Media on Military Recruiting. More and more Americans receive information from social media. This work looks at the effects of social media's rise on U.S. Army recruiting. The primary research question was “Is the increased reliance on social media for information negatively affecting the U.S. Army's ability to recruit?” The secondary research questions were “What role do foreign mis, mal, and disinformation play in decreasing the propensity to serve in the Army of the United States population?” and “How do the negative effects of social media on mental health affect the Army's ability to meet its' recruiting goal?” The researcher answered these questions through a hermeneutics approach, analyzing existing research and correlating it to the past 10 years of recruiting trends. The researcher supplemented this by conducting open coding of videos on YouTube to assess the narratives portrayed based on various Army-related keywords. Based on this research, the increase in information speed of social media allows foreign adversaries to perpetuate mis, mal, and disinformation at speeds that decrease trust in the U.S. Government and Army. The well-documented negative effects of excessive social media use on mental health are decreasing the qualified youth available faster than any other discriminating factor.  Recording Date: 20 Jun 2024 Research Question: Mike Zequeira suggests an interested student examine:  For narrative/misinformation academic researchers, does the TikTok algorithm push content harmful to, or counter to, a positive US military outlook? For military researchers, how can Social Media feeds be integrated into the targeting cycle to enable real time/near real time targeting? Resources Active Measures: The Secret History of  Disinformation and Political Warfare by Thomas Rid LikeWar: The Weaponization of Social Media by Peter Singer My Share of the Task: A Memoir by Stanley McCrystal Link to full show notes and resources Guest Bio:  Major Michael (Mike) Zequeira was born and raised in the Fort Lauderdale, FL area. He commissioned through the Officer Candidate School at Fort Moore in 2013 as a branch-detailed Military Intelligence Officer. MAJ Zequeira served as a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer and Battalion Logistics Officer in 1-68AR, in the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division in Ft. Carson, Colorado. Post graduation from the Military Intelligence Captain's career course, he served as Brigade Assistant Intelligence Officer at 2nd IBCT, 10th Mountain Infantry Division, 2-14 Infantry Battalion Intelligence Officer, and Military Intelligence Company Commander for the 41st Brigade Engineer Battalion at Fort Drum, New York. He also served as the Headquarters, Headquarters Company Commander, and as an Operational Test Officer at the Intelligence and Electronic Warfare Testing Directorate at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. MAJ Zequeira is currently transitioning to his next assignment in the Division Intelligence section of 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell KY. MAJ Zequeira's military education includes the North Georgia University/MCOE Mandarin Language Course, Airborne Course, Military Intelligence Officer Captains Career Course, Digital Intelligence Systems Master Gunners Course, Army Basic Space Cadre I & II, the CENTCOM Foreign Disclosure Officer Course, and the Information Advantage Scholars Program at the Resident Command and General Staff Officer Course at Fort Leavenworth, KS. His civilian education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Economics from Anderson University (SC), a Master of Arts in International Security Studies from the University of Arizona, and a Master in Military Arts and Sciences with a concentration in Information Advantage from the Command and General Staff College. MAJ Zequeira's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (3), the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal (2), NATO Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Rotational Forces Lithuanian Medal, Romanian Partner of Defense Medal 3rd Class, Order of the Gold Spur, Order of the Silver Spur, Combat Action Badge and the Parachutists Badge. He is also the winner of the CGSOC Class 24 Excellence in Information Warfare writing award. He is married to his wife Laura, who has her own career in finance and the couple shares a young son, Matthew, age 2. Mike and Laura are both avid sports fans of baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and both enjoy skiing. Mike also enjoys working out and fishing in his free time. About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain. For more information, please contact us at communications@information-professionals.org. Or, connect directly with The Cognitive Crucible podcast host, John Bicknell, on LinkedIn. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, 1) IPA earns from qualifying purchases, 2) IPA gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Being a life-long blind person I have never served in the military and thus only understand the military way of life vicariously. There is reading about it, of course and there is talking to military people about their lifestyle. Today you get to hear a conversation not only about military life, specifically the army world, as it were, from a 20-year career soldier, Chase Spears who recently retired from the military as a major in the army. Chase grew up always interested in the news and what was going on in the world around him. He attended college, both undergraduate studies and later graduate work at universities in Tennessee. Along the way an army recruiting officer persuaded him to join the army. By that time, he was well married to a woman who, surprising to him, supported his decision to leave college and join the army. Chase's telling of this story is wonderful to hear. As you will see, he is quite the storyteller.   He and I talk a great deal about the world of a soldier, and he puts a lot of things into perspective. For those of you who have served in the military much of what you hear may not be totally new. However, since Chase served in public affairs/relations duties throughout most of his army career, you may find his observations interest. Chase and I had a good free-flowing and informative conversation. I personally came away fascinated and look forward to talking with Chase again in the future. A few months ago, Mr. Spears retired and entered into a doctoral program at Kansas State University where he is conducting research concerning how military life impacts the citizenship of those who serve. You will get to hear a bit about what he is finding.   About the Guest:   U.S. Army Major (Ret.) Chase Spears is first and foremost a Christian, Husband, and Father to five children who help to keep him and his wife young at heart. Having grown up with a passion for news and policy, Chase spent 20 years in the Army as a public affairs officer, trying to be part of a bridge between the military and the public. He merged that work with a passion for writing to become one of the Army's most published public affairs officers, often to resistance from inside the military. Chase continues that journey now as a doctoral candidate at Kansas State University, where his dissertation research explores how military life impacts the citizenship of those who serve. His other writings focus on topics including civil-military dynamics, communication ethics, and the political realities of military operations.   Ways to connect with Chase:   LinkedIn/X/Substack/Youtube: @drchasespears www.chasespears.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 also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.   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 ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Hi there and welcome once again to unstoppable mindset. And we have a I think really interesting show today are interesting episode we get to chat with major retired Chase Spears. I've been saying ret all morning because he's got Rhett in parentheses. And I didn't even think about it being not a name but retired. But anyway, that's me. Anyway, he has been involved in a lot of writing in and out of the military. He was a major military person for 20 years. He's now in a doctoral candidate program, Kennedy C candidacy program. And my gosh, there's a lot there, but we'll get to it also. Major Rhett major Chase spears. Welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're here.   Chase Spears ** 02:13 just thrilled to be with you, Michael. Thanks for having me. Now   Michael Hingson ** 02:17 that now that we've abused you with Rhett, but that's okay.   Chase Spears ** 02:20 I think God worse. Well, there   Michael Hingson ** 02:22 you are. And by your friends, I bet. So that's what really makes them more fun. But we're but I really am grateful that you were willing to come on and spend some time with us. Why don't we start I love to, to start this way to give people a chance to get to know you. Why don't you tell us some about the early Chase spheres and growing up and all that stuff?   Chase Spears ** 02:44 Well, it's yeah, it's been quite a journey. I grew up in the southeast us My family was out of Florida. And when I was a teenager, we ended up moving we went out to Texas, which was really just kind of a an entire change of culture for us. If you can imagine going from the kind of urban parts of Florida that are really highly populated a lot of traffic, a lot of tourism, a lot of industry. And we went up to North Central Texas in my teen years. And if you can imagine going from from that, you know, Florida to a town of about 9000 people it was a an oil and agricultural cattle town, and Graham, Texas and it was really kind of a culture shock at first, but turned into some of the best and most formative years of my life where I I really learned the value of hard work working on the fields with my dad really got to kind of connect with nature and just taking some gorgeous sunsets in the evenings out working in the fields enjoying the views of the wildlife Hall. I was out working. But one thing that I did learn from hard manual labor, was it made sure that I kept on track for college. And so I ended up going to Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee in 1998. Right after I graduated from high school, I was homeschooled and met my Hi my sweetie there, Laurie. We were married by senior year we decided neither one of us we wanted to graduate and leave the other one behind. So we got married start a family pretty young afterwards. Went on to the University of Tennessee at Knoxville afterwards because I thought, hey, I want to work in journalism. And it'd be great to have a master's degree in journalism to prove my commitment to the field make people take me seriously. And it was during that time that I ran into an army recruiter while I was working my part time job at a law firm. I was working at the courthouse one day filing paperwork. And this gentleman and I just struck up a conversation in an elevator he was there in his full dress uniform was very impressive to me as a civilian at the time. And so I started asking him questions about what he did. In what army life was like just trying to be friendly, conversational, I was genuinely curious, though I was not looking for a military career. Well, as a good recruiter does, he managed to coax a phone number out of me. And seven months later there I am raising my right hand, swearing into the army in Knoxville, Tennessee. And so we were in the army for 20 years, we moved to several different parts of the nation, we've landed in northeastern Kansas, just on the outskirts of the Greater Kansas City, Missouri area. And now we're kind of starting a new phase of life after the army enjoying being kind of planted Gayndah. Watch our kids grow in a smaller community. And we're excited about what's next. So   Michael Hingson ** 05:42 what is the postdoc? Where are the doctoral degree in, that you're seeking.   Chase Spears ** 05:47 So I am in a program entitled leadership communication. But I'm kind of a misplaced public policy scholars what I've learned, but the faculty there have been so wonderfully gracious to me, and I've been very supportive of my research agenda. So I'm a career communicator. In the army, I was a public affairs officer. So everything I did was about stuff like this. I didn't community engagement, I did interviews, I was did social media strategy, I was part of the bridge that the military tries to build between it and the public, which is incredibly important in our form of governance. And so I love all things communication. And I also love team leadership, small organizational leadership, I had the chance to, to lead teams, I had the chance to lead a company while I was in the army, so fell in love with that. So when I saw a degree program that merged both of those, you know, they had me at hello, I was a sucker from the get go when I saw the marketing. So I applied and they very kindly accepted me. So I've been studying leadership communication, but my research agenda is actually more in the policy realm. My dissertation work is studying how did we come to this concept that the military isn't a political and air quotes institution, when it is funded by the government when it is commanded by elected leadership? When when we exert our national will, on other nations with it there absolutely political connotations to all of that. And And yet, we kind of say the opposite. So I was curious, I was like, this would be something fun to explore, how did we How did we get to where we believe this in spite of what we do? And so that's what my research Jind agenda is all about. And I'm having a lot of fun writing.   Michael Hingson ** 07:37 Well, and I guess we could go right to why well, so why do you think the reason is that we are not a political but we say we are? Oh, are you still researching it to the point where you're not ready to answer that yet? Well, I   Chase Spears ** 07:57 have, I have some theories and what I believe are pretty educated guesses. I'm trying to make sure that I don't bore your audience going too deep in the weeds on this. It's really kind of comes out of the Second World War. When you look at the history of the United States. Traditionally, we are a nation, our ancestors were part of a nation that were really cautious about the idea of having large standing military forces during peacetime. Because there had been this historical observance over hundreds of years, particularly in Europe, that large forces during peacetime ended up causing problems for society and the nations that bred large armies inevitably found ways to use them, that might not always be to the benefit of the populace. So we come out of the Second World War, and the nation has decided we're going to become the global military superpower, we didn't want to be caught off guard again, like we were for what Germany had done in the years after the First World War. And we also have a rising Russia, we need to counter that. So we decided as a nation, yeah, we will become a global, permanent, large, highly industrialized, highly institutionalized force. Well, how do you gain public support for that when the public has traditionally for hundreds of years been very, very suspect of that and very much against it? Well, Samuel, in walk Samuel Huntington, a brilliant political scientist who writes the book, the soldier in the state, and in it he proposed a theory of military supervision in which officers would abstained from voting and then over time that grew legs into Okay, well, now we're just not involved in politics and then in time that grew legs into where a political, but if you go around the force and ask most people what that means, if you ask them to define that word, few would actually be able to define it. It's one of those kind of discursive terms that we've come up with kind of like for the public good. Well, what is for the public good? Can you actually define that, and it's largely often in the eyes of the beholder. So that that's where I believe it came from, I'm still doing quite a bit of work and reading in that. But historically, it's very fascinating to see where we've come and just 70 years on that topic. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 10:25 And also, we're in a phase of all of that, where it seems to be at least that it's changing and morphing again, I mean, with what's happened in the last seven years in this country, and the, the lack of desire for discourse, the the desire on some people's parts to really involve the military and a lot of things. It seems like we're possibly changing again, or perhaps even strengthening the military in some way. And I'm not sure what that is.   Chase Spears ** 11:04 We there's really kind of been somewhat of a public backlash, the last, I'd say, five to 10 years, we saw an increasing comfort with military members publicly advocating for political policy for political parties, which is absolutely within their constitutional right to do, George Washington himself said, we did not lay aside the citizen to assume the soldier. But again, that that discourse coming out of the Second World War, really kind of conditions the American public to think that when you're in the military, you do give up your rights to expression that you do give up your rights to citizen agency, and, and, and meaningful involvement in civic processes. And while we do rightly give up some expressive rights, and that is captured and codified in military regulations, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice, there's some legitimacy to that argument. But I would say, you know, if you're, if you're holding a ruler in your hand, the regulations kind of restrict us somewhere between the two and three inch mark on the ruler, whereas the perception that's just kind of come out of the repetition of these terms and ideas is more that we're up around the nine or 10 inch mark on the ruler, if that makes any sense for you. So we we've seen in the last few years, more military people being willing to get involved politically, and there has been somewhat of a backlash to it. And therein is the problem. You if you're going to hold to a belief to a doctrine to a discursive claim, then you have to match it. And the military is really kind of at a point right now they have a decision to make, are we going to hold on to this discourse to this idea? Or are we going to acknowledge that? Well, the regulations are much less restrictive than what people have been led to believe? It's it's a tough spot to be there's not a perfect answer, to help the institution requires cracking down on constitutional freedoms. And well, what is the institution there to serve? So it's a very sticky issue?   Michael Hingson ** 13:11 Well, it does seem to me that in no way, because the person becomes a soldier. And even in their oaths, do they give up the right to be a citizen of the country? So I'm with George Washington?   Chase Spears ** 13:26 Oh, absolutely. No, I am with with George Washington himself, you know, the greatest American? And I think we would, it's a, it's a good reminder of the importance of knowing our history and knowing where we came from. It's in my interviews with military members on this topic. In my research, I'm finding that that like me, most of them were just kind of told these things verbally. They were never pointed to the actual rules. They were never actually pointed to the actual laws. I only know the regulations because I have a personal fascination on the topic. And I went and looked them up. But no one ever told me where to find them. That was research on my own team and figure out where do I look for this. So it's, we really need to do better, nationally, to know our history and know where we came from.   Michael Hingson ** 14:14 We do have a really interesting paradox in the world, because we've gotten in the last two government administrations, to different views of not only how to govern, but to a degree how the military needs to be a part of it, and that's gonna not be very helpful to things either.   Chase Spears ** 14:34 Absolutely. The the military at the end of the day is controlled by the Civilian governance. Now. I'll acknowledge that General Mark Milley didn't really seem to think so and there have been other figures in military history who MacArthur being one of them who who seemed to challenge who was actually in charge of the military. But at the end of the day, constitutionally, we We are governed by by civilians. And that that is right, that is proper any anything else would be a coup and you don't want that. So we, it comes down to how does the military try to hold a consistent line? When you have governments that change every two to four to eight years and have drastically different perspectives on policy? How do you as a military hold an even keel and another wise stormy sea. And in previous generations, we had senior general officers who were pretty good at that they were pretty good at saying, regardless of what the ship of state is doing, the ship of military is going to remain on a heading to serve everyone. And there's been somewhat of a lack a breakdown of discipline at the senior ranks in the last probably 10 years, that's really kind of shuttered the ship of the military. And I think the current some of the recently promoted, general officers understand that I think General GA is the new Chief of Staff of the Army, I think he understands that and he's trying to do some things to reintroduce some stability, but it's a hard thing.   Michael Hingson ** 16:16 Yeah. And the other part about it is that the military, in some ways is a part of society. So we've had things like the whole Don't Ask, Don't Tell dealing with LGBTQ types of issues. And, and of course, even women in the military, and there's been a lot of things that haven't necessarily been as visible as they have become, and are issues that we are starting to face and deal with more. But it seems to me that the military, like it or not, is part of society. And we do need to recognize that collectively, as well.   Chase Spears ** 17:02 We were absolutely drawn from society. We serve society, we exist, you know, for the protection of society. But I will say there's one thing that's all always kind of set Western militaries apart a little bit, and the US military hails from that Western tradition of understanding that just because society chooses to take a move in one direction, doesn't necessarily mean that it's in the national security interest of the United States for the military, to follow suit. And then there's kind of a reason that the military has always tried to, in some way, set itself apart, of acknowledging that there's some things that society will do or want to that are affected by the times as Shakespeare himself noted, there's always a tide in the affairs and man, the tide comes in the time tide goes out the the, the winds shift. And but one thing that was said at the military part was this idea of, at the end of the day, if it's a societal change that enables us to better defend the nation, then that's the direction we'll move. If it's a societal change that could potentially be a friction point or cause additional challenges in securing the nation, we might, we might think on that one a little bit harder, we might be a little more a little slower to adopt that. And we've seen that has kind of broken down the military is very much going out of its way to be reflective of society. And in some ways that can be good in some ways that's caused additional unnecessary frictions to the force and is rightly being having questions asked about it.   Michael Hingson ** 18:45 And that's where having good solid leadership in the military at the highest echelons, has to be an important part of it, because that's where ultimately, the direction that the military goes, is at least in part, going to be authored. Yes, there is a civilian government that and civilian commander in chief, but still the military leaders have to really be the ones mostly to figure out where the military should go in terms of policies and how it deals with different issues or not, I would think.   Chase Spears ** 19:27 And the key word that you hit on there, Michael is leadership. Back a few months ago, I wrote a piece that was published by real clear defense called seven new things the new Sergeant Major of the Army could do to restore trust in the force. And the argument that I made his predecessor was one who was very kind of reactive to the, to the whims you might say, of a the younger generation of soldiers. He was very much all over Twitter about telling me your issues. Let me get involved in your issues. And he was, in some ways a very divisive, senior official in the military. And I equated it to you, you want to look at kind of the British constitutionalist position, the British Crown, if you're looking overseas, it has traditionally been something that it's kind of the rock, unmovable, unshakable, the parliament will do what parliament will do that the Tories and Labour will do what they will do, but the crown is unmovable the crown serves all. And that's kind of something that the military reflected, and I call out to the new rising generation military leaders to remember that, to remember that we don't own this, we owe nothing in the institution, we all leave it one day, as I left it a matter of weeks ago. All I have are my memories and and hopes that I was able to leave some things better than I found them and that the people I served that I hope I served them well. But at the end of the day, we hand it off to someone else. And it's so important for to have good leaders who recognize that we we steward the profession, that we we want to do the best we can with it in our time, and recognize the decisions that we make, will impact those who serve long after our time and do our best to hand it off in the best possible condition that we can for them. Because then to the to society, we returned. And then we depend on this who came after us for our national defense. And so it's the steward mindset to me as key.   Michael Hingson ** 21:41 Yeah. Well, and going back a little bit. So you're in graduate school you got recruited in and accepted and went into the military. What did you do? What was it like when you first went and that certainly again, had to be quite a culture shock from things that you would experience before? Ah,   Chase Spears ** 22:02 yeah, I figured absolutely was you'll never forget your first shark attack at basic training for for anyone who's unfamiliar with that, it's when you once you've done your initial and processing there, whatever base you get your basic training at, for me, it was Fort Jackson in South Carolina. And then they eventually buss you off to your your training companies, which is where you will actually conduct your combat training. This is after you've received your uniforms and done all your finances, paperwork, and life insurance and all that. And then the buses stop and the drill sergeants, they're just there waiting for you. And it's a moment you never forget. And of course, you jump off the bus and they're giving you all these commands that they know it's impossible for you to, to execute to any level of satisfaction. And then when you fail, as you inevitably will, you know, the entire group just gets smoked over and over and over again. And I remember that moment just having that realization of I have not in Kansas anymore, like the next next few months of my life are about to be very different than anything I've ever experienced. And it was it absolutely was. I got through that. And I think the first thing that was really kind of shocking to me be on to the training environment was the use of last names. So yeah, I go by chase my friends call me chase people who know me call me chase. I'm I'm not hung up on titles. I'm a simple guy. In the military, you are your rank and last name. I was specialist Spears sergeants First Lieutenant spears or LT Captain spears, major spears. And I remember at my first unit, there were other other people who in my unit there were the same rank as me. And so I thought were peers I'd call them by their first name. And they never gave me problems about it. But our higher ups would you know, people have rank spears, we don't go by first names spears. And I never I never 20 years and I still never really adjusted well to that I learned how to how to keep myself from getting as many talking to us about it over the years is I had in previous times. But that was a culture shock. And, and just the the constant what we call the military, the battle rhythm, you know, civil society would call it your work schedule, while in the military. It never really ends your day start very early. You have physical training that you're doing with your unit at 630. Depending on what unit you're in, you may be off at a reasonable time in the late afternoon, early evening, or you may be there. I've remember staying at work one night till 4am Just because the boss gave us a job to do. Frankly, it was an unreasonable job. But he gave us a job to do and an extraordinarily tight deadline and it took us till 4am to get the job done and And I was at work by 630, the next morning. So you never, ever really do get used to that in some ways, because you kind of come to accept it. But it's been really eye opening to me in the last nearly three months now that I've been now, looking back and having some control over my schedule now for the first time in 20 years, and realizing, wow, that was such a foreign existence I lived. But when you're when you're swimming in a fishbowl, you don't know you're wet. So every time you do adapt to it, but it's been neat being on the other side and realizing, you know, can kind of breathe in and start to have some say over what a schedule looks like, because I'd forgotten what that was, what that'd be like.   Michael Hingson ** 25:44 But as you rose in the ranks, and I assume took on more responsibility, did that give you any more flexibility in terms of how you operate it on a day to day basis.   Chase Spears ** 25:56 It all depended on the position, there were there were some jobs I had, where were, regardless of the rank, I had flexibility. And then there were other jobs, where I absolutely did not even as a major want, there was a job that I had, where the boss was very adamant. This is the time you will be here and you will be sitting at this desk between these hours and you are authorized authorized is a big term in the military culture, you are authorized a 30 minute lunch break period. And you will be here until this time every day. And this was when I had you know, I think I was at my 1718 year mark. And I remember thinking to myself, golly, do I need to ask permission to go to the bathroom to see, it seemed I didn't. So it really kind of depended on your job. There's a perception a lot of times that the higher you go in rank, the more control you have over your life. And I observed that the opposite is actually true. The higher you go, typically, the more the more demands are placed on you. The more people are depending on the things that you're doing. And and the bigger the jobs are. And the longer the days are was my experience, but it had been flooded depending on what position I was in at the given time.   Michael Hingson ** 27:17 Now, when you first enlisted and all that, what was Laurie's reaction to all of that.   Chase Spears ** 27:23 I was shocked. She was so supportive. She actually grew up in an Air Force household. And so she knew military life pretty well. Her dad had been been in, he spent a lot more time in the air force than I did the army. And then even after he retired from the Air Force, he went on and taught at the Naval Academy as a civilian. So she is just always had a level of familiarity with the military as long as she can remember. She joked with me that when she got married to me and then had to give up her dependent military ID card that it was kind of a moment of mourning for she didn't want to give that thing up. So one day, there we are Knoxville, Tennessee, and I approached her. And I'm trying to be very careful, very diplomatic, very suave, and how I bring it up to her and let her know I've been thinking about the army. And I'm kind of curious what she might think about that. Because it'd be such a drastic lifestyle change from everything we've been talking about. And I was bracing for her to look at me and be like, are you insane? And instead, she was like, Oh, you won't get in the military. And I get an ID card again. Yes. She was she was supportive from from Jump Street. And so you talk about a wife who just was there, every minute of it, and loved and supported and gave grace and rolled with the punches. milori Did she was absolutely phenomenal. Though, I will admit when it got to the point that I was starting to think maybe 20. I'll go ahead and wrap this up, because my original plan had been to do 30. But when I started talking with her about that she was she was also ready, she was ready to actually start having me home regularly for us to be able to start making family plans and be able to follow through with them. Because we had the last three years we had not been able to follow through with family plans, because of the different positions that I was in. So she was very, very supportive of me joining and then she was equally very supportive of me going ahead and and calling it calling it a day here or the last just at the end of this year. But what a what a partner could not have done it   Michael Hingson ** 29:41 without her. So where did she live when you were going through basic training and all that.   Chase Spears ** 29:46 So she stayed in Knoxville for nonGSA. Yeah. And then from there, she actually ended up moving up to her dad's and his wife's place up in Maryland because my follow on school after base See training was the Defense Information School. That's where all the Public Affairs courses are taught. And it's so happens that that is located at Fort Meade, Maryland, which is just about a 45 minute drive traffic dependent from where her dad lived. So while I was in basic training, she went ahead and moved up there to Maryland so that while I was in school up there, we could see each other on the weekends. And then from there, we didn't have to go back to Tennessee and pack up a house or stuff was already packed up so we could get on the road together there to wherever our next duty station was. And it turned out funny enough to be Colorado Springs, Fort Carson. And here's why that's funny. When, when I approached Laurie, about joining the army, one of the things that she was really excited about was seeing the world if you're in the military, you get to see the world, right. And my first duty assignment was the town that she had grown up in, because her dad had spent the last few years of his career teaching at the Air Force Academy there on the northern end of Colorado Springs. So so her her dreams of seeing the world with me, turned out that our first tour was going to write back home for her.   Michael Hingson ** 31:14 Oh, that has its pluses and it's minuses.   Chase Spears ** 31:17 Yep. So it was neat for me to get to see where she had grown up and learn the town little bit.   Michael Hingson ** 31:23 I've been to Fort Meade, and actually a few times I used to sell technology to folks there. And then several years ago, I was invited to come in after the World Trade Center and do a speech there. And so it was it was fun spending some time around Fort Meade heard some wonderful stories. My favorite story still is that one day somebody from the city of Baltimore called the fort because they wanted to do traffic studies or get information to be able to do traffic studies to help justify widening roads to better help traffic going into the fort. So they call it the fort. And they said, Can you give us an idea of how many people come through each day? And the person at the other end said, Well, I'm really not sure what you're talking about. We're just a little shack out here in the middle of nowhere. And so they ended up having to hire their own people to count cars for a week, going in and out of the fort was kind of cute.   Chase Spears ** 32:23 Well, there's quite a bit of traffic there. Now that basis when   Michael Hingson ** 32:26 I was then to there wasn't just a little shack, of course, it was a whole big forest.   Chase Spears ** 32:32 Yeah, yeah, it's I was back there. Golly, I want to say it wasn't that long ago. But it was about five years ago now is back there. And I almost didn't recognize the place. There's been so much new built there. But oh, I know, as far as army assignments go, it's a it's a pretty nice place.   Michael Hingson ** 32:50 Yeah, it is. And as I said, I've had the opportunity to speak there and spend some time dealing with folks when we sold products and so on. So got to got to know, people, they're pretty well and enjoyed dealing with people there. They knew what they were doing. Yeah,   Chase Spears ** 33:07 yeah, that's a it's a smart group of people in that base.   Michael Hingson ** 33:10 So you went through basic training and all that and what got you into the whole idea of public relations and what you eventually went into?   Chase Spears ** 33:20 Well, I had studied in college, my undergraduate degree was in television and radio broadcasting. My master's was in journalism, I'd grown up kind of in the cable news age, and the at the age of the emergence of am Talk Radio is a big, big tool of outreach. And I grew up thinking, this is what I want to do. I love communication. I actually thought it'd be really neat to be an investigative reporter on if, if you remember, back in the 90s, it was this big thing of, you know, Channel Nine on your side, yeah, had this investigative reporter who tell you the real deal about the restaurant or the automotive garage. And I always thought that would be amazing, like what a great public service like helping people to avoid being ripped off. And so I wanted to be a news. I'm sure you're familiar with the Telecom Act of 1996. That That caused a tremendous consolidation of media for your audience who might not be familiar with it. It used to be that really, if you had the wherewithal to buy a media station or a television station or radio station, you were unlimited in what you could you there were limits, I should say on what you could buy, so that you couldn't control too much, too much media environment, the Telecom Act of 1996, completely deregulated that and so large media companies were just swallowing up the nation. And that meant there's a tremendous consolidation of jobs and the my junior year in college. I was in the southeast us at the time at Lee University. Atlanta. Nearby was our biggest hiring media market, my June Your year CNN laid off 400 people. So I could tell really quick, this is going to be a chat and even more challenging field to break into than I thought. And that's why I ended up working part time in a law firm was in, in Journalism School. Afterwards, because I was looking great. I was looking for a backup plan. I thought if journalism doesn't work out, I also love the law. It'd be nice to get some experience working in a firm to see if I want to go to law school. So it was a natural fit for me when the army recruiter started talking to me. And he was asking me what I was interested in. And I told him, Well, here's what my degree is in, here's what my career plan had been, here's who I really want to do with my life. And he said, we have public affairs, I said, What's that? It turns out, the military has radio stations, and they have television networks and you PR, I had no idea. I was a civilian. And I was like, Well, that sounds good. And so I thought, yeah, sure, I'll I will enlist for that come in, do one four year contract, I'll build a portfolio and and then I'll be able to take that portfolio out into the civilian realm. And hopefully that will make me more competitive for a job in the news market. And of course, a couple of years into that. I was in Kuwait deployed to camp Arif John. And my brigade commander sat me down to lunch one day, and made it very clear that he expected me to apply for Officer Candidate School, which was nowhere on what I was interested in doing was nowhere on my radar, I applied, I really didn't have a lot of confidence. I thought, I looked at officers and I thought they were people who are way, way more intelligent than me, way more suave than me. And I really didn't know if I'd get in, well, I got in. And after I commissioned officer candidate school is about like basic training all over again. So that was fun. And I ended up being assigned to a combat camera unit. And then afterwards, I was able to put my paperwork in to branch transfer right back into public affairs, it was a perfect mess was everything I wanted to do. I didn't get to work in news directly. I wasn't a reporter. But I got to work with reporters, I got to be an institutional insider and help facilitate them and help to tell the stories of what some great American patriots were doing, and wanting to serve their countries. And so it was, for the most part, more often than not, it was a really, really fun way to earn a living living.   Michael Hingson ** 37:34 I collect as a hobby old radio shows I'm very familiar with but back in the 40s was the Armed Forces Radio Service, then it became Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. And so I'm aware a little bit of, of the whole broadcast structure in the military, not a lot, but but some and know that that it's there. And it does, I'm suspect, a really good job of helping to keep people informed as much as it can as they can with the things that they have to do in the world. It's   Chase Spears ** 38:04 definitely it's a comfort over the years, if you're spending a lot of time overseas to have kind of that that taste of home and our forces network does a really good job of that letting I think we're starting to see some debates inside the military. Now. What do we want to continue of it? Because now information is so ubiquitous, if you will, you can pull it down, you can stream whatever you want, wherever you are in the globe. So I kind of wonder in the next 1020 years, will it still be a thing, but during my early career during my early deployment before he could stream stuff, it was really cool to have an AFN radio station to tune into is really cool to have an AFN television network to tune into to be able to get a taste of home. That was much a comfort,   Michael Hingson ** 38:52 right? Yeah, it is. It is something that helps. So you can't necessarily stream everything. I spent a week in Israel this summer. And there were broadcasts I could get and pick up through the internet and so on. And there were stuff from here in the US that I couldn't get I suspect it has to do with copyright laws and the way things were set up but there was only so much stuff that you could actually do.   Chase Spears ** 39:20 And what a time to be in Israel you will I bet that trip is even more memorable for you now than it would have been otherwise.   Michael Hingson ** 39:27 Fortunately, it wasn't August. So we we didn't have to put up with the things that are going on now. But still Yeah, it was very memorable. I enjoyed doing it. spending a week with excessively over there and got into getting to meet with with all the folks so it was definitely well worth it and something that that I will always cherish having had the opportunity to do get   Chase Spears ** 39:51 for you. If it's on my bucket list. I've always wanted to spend some time over there.   Michael Hingson ** 39:56 Hot and humid in the summer, but that's okay. Let's say but they love breakfast. Oh, really? So yeah, definitely something to think about. Well, so you, you joined you got you got the public relations, jobs and so on. So how did all that work for you over? Well, close to 20 years? What all did you do and what, what stories can you tell us about some of that?   Chase Spears ** 40:25 It was it was fascinating. It was fascinating because everything that I got to touch was, in some way a story. And so my first job was in radio and television production. I did quite a bit of that in Kuwait. And it was actually there that I got my first taste of crisis communication, and I was immediately addicted. Do you remember back in? It was December 2004. Donald Rumsfeld said you go to war with the Army you have not the army want or might wish to have it another time? Yeah. I was there. That that was uttered in camp you're in Kuwait. And that was such an interesting moment. For me in terms of a story to tell. I was with the 14 Public Affairs Detachment we were deployed to camp Arif John to provide public affairs support for for Third Army's Ford headquarters. This was back during the height of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. And so there's a lot of military going over there. We were part of that. And I remember hearing this tasking that had come down that the Secretary of Defense is going to come out here is going to do this town hall meeting with the troops. There's going to be no question that you can't ask. You're going to be allowed to say anything you want to say to the Secretary of Defense, nothing's going to be scripted, nothing's going to be put through for review. And by the way, 14 pad you guys are going to make sure that it can be televised live back to the United States. And so here I am thinking what can possibly go wrong. And so we helped we all the event, Secretary Rumsfeld hindered and handled it really, really well. They set up this big, you know, fighting machinery display, they're in a in a big aircraft hangar epic camp bearing which is in northern Kuwait, just not too far south from the Iraqi border. And he gets up he gives the speech. He's well received by the troops. And it goes to the q&a part. And soldiers were asking him all sorts of questions. Most of them are jovial, you know, hey, when when do we get to go to Disney World, stuff like that. They were kind of big jocular with them.   Michael Hingson ** 42:42 Seems a fair question.   Chase Spears ** 42:44 Yeah, you know, I felt them right. And so finally, this one guy, I'll never forget his name, especially as Thomas Wilson from the 2/78 Regimental Combat Team. Tennessee National Guard asks him a question about when are they going to get the body armor that's needed? And in true Rumsfeld style, he's he says, Well, I'm not quite sure I understood the question. Can you ask it again, which is a great technique. He used to buy him some time to think the answer. And then it came back after the second question. And the whole hangar about 1000 of us in there. It was hast. I'll bet you could have heard a plastic cup hit the floor at the back back of the room. I mean, everyone was like, what? Oh, no, what just happened? What's about to happen? And Rumsfeld makes that remark, you go to war with the army have not the one you want or need. Yeah. And and then the questions went on. And there was not be after that. There was no awkward moment for the rest of the time. And I and I thought, wow, that could have gone south. But it didn't cool. It was just it was neat to watch. I was running the television camera that caught the moment. I was in the room. And so we me and my sergeant had to stay up there the rest of the day because there were some other television network interviews with other officials that we were running the satellite transponder for. And it was a long day our commander was kind of being a jerk to us. So by the end of the day, we were tired we'd been up there sleeping on cots for a couple of days, we were kind of just ready to get back to data camp Arif, John to our beds and put the whole mission behind us. And then we drive to three hours through this pouring pouring rainstorm in Kuwait, and a Canvas side Humvee that's leaking. All you know, water just pouring into this thing on us. So we're done. We're done. We're done. We're like, we just want to get a bed. We get back to our base. We're offloading all the equipment, putting everything away. And at this point in time, I forgotten about the moment earlier in the day when that question was asked, and I walk in and there we had this wall of televisions you know, tracking all the different news networks back in the US and on all of them Their Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, you go to war with the army have not the army won or wish to have another time. And at that moment, I was like, it's about to be an interesting few weeks around here. And it turned out, it turned out indeed to be an interesting few weeks, an interesting few months. And I got to be on the front end of what the public affairs response to that looks like. And I can tell you, I've never seen armored vehicles flow into a place as quickly as they did in the following month. So the power of a message transmitted is a real thing. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 45:39 so whatever happened to specialist Wilson?   Chase Spears ** 45:44 I don't I don't know. I know that news coverage. When that news reporters were asking that very question and coverage that I saw said, Oh, his unit, his assured that nothing bad will happen to him. He was a national guardsmen, so he kind of fall under a different, different command structure than us. From time to time, I have wondered that and I've tried to look him up online, and just try to find out what happened to the sky and what was life like for him? I'd love to talk to him and ask alright, what was it like, man, what is your unit do? But I, I have no idea. I can't find him. I presume he's gone about his life and doesn't want to be famous about it. But it also goes back to National Guard culture versus active duty culture. We talked earlier about the citizenship aspect. And the National Guard gets that way more than the active component. At the end of the day, they demobilize. And they go home. Right, you're running into the same people you serve, with the church, at the grocery store, at the grocery store, at the PTA, places like this, some of them might be your neighbors. And so they have an entirely different outlook. This is what they do to serve the country when needed. And then they go on about their lives. I don't think you would have seen an active duty soldier ask that question. I really don't because the culture is so so markedly different. And there's a level of kind of freedom of thought and expression, present that guard that that is much more lacking in the active component.   Michael Hingson ** 47:19 Should there be more freedom, in that sense in the active component? Or do you think that it's really appropriate for there to be the dichotomy that you're describing?   Chase Spears ** 47:32 And the act of force you need discipline? You need a discipline force, who, when they're given a lawful order, will carry it out hastily, because lives could hang in the balance. That's absolutely important, and we can never lose that. But sometimes we can use discipline I say sometimes, often, more is the more appropriate term often we confuse discipline with silence. We confuse discipline with a lack of willingness to ask tough questions. We confuse discipline with just saying Yes, sir. When you know, in the back of your mind, there might be something you need to dig into more. We we need, unfortunately, since the end of the Second World War, going back to my comments earlier about this large, industrialized, institutionalized force we have it breeds careerists. It breeds a mindset that's fearful to ask tough questions, even if you know they need to be asked. Because you want to be promoted. Right? You want to get assignments, right. And it breeds a culture where you really are much more timid. Or you're much more likely to be timid than someone who's maybe a reservist or National Guard member. We need people who will ask tough questions. We don't need indiscipline, we don't rush showmanship, we don't need people who are being performative just to be seen. But there are valid questions to be asked is, you know, is US defense policy? Better set for a 400? Ship navy or a 300? Ship? Navy? That's a valid question. Is it better for us to use this route of attack versus that route of attack? Given the Give Me Everything we know, those are valid questions. We need people in the military who who are willing to be critical thinkers, and there are a lot of extraordinarily brilliant people in today's armed forces, as there always has been. But there is on the active duty side a culture that works against original thought and that's really to our detriment. And I think the manner in which the evacuation of Afghanistan ended is one more blatant indicator of that.   Michael Hingson ** 49:48 It was not handled nearly as well as it could have been as we have seen history tell us and teach us now   Chase Spears ** 49:56 Absolutely. i It broke my heart. I'm A veteran of that conflict I'm not one who cries easily, Michael but I can tell you that morning when I saw the some of the images coming out of cobbles especially there's a video of a C 17 cargo jet taking off and people literally hanging to and falling to their deaths. Just i i fell off, I fell off my on my run into a sobbing human being on this on the ground for a little bit it is there's a lot to process and it has continued to be a lot to process. And there again, there's a great example of why you gotta be willing to ask tough questions. There was no no reason at all. We should have abandoned Bagram and tried to evacuate out of downtown Cabo. But that's a whole nother conversation. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 50:52 Well, speaking of you, I understand that you weren't a great fan of jumping out of airplanes, but you got used to doing them? I   Chase Spears ** 51:01 sure did. Oh, yeah. I always thought that would just be something that no, I don't want to say no sane person would do. I mean, I enjoy watching skydivers, I think it's really cool. And obviously, they're saying, I never thought I'd be among them. I thought, Nah, that's just something, I don't think I'm gonna do that. And when I was an officer candidate school, I was roommates with a guy who had been to Airborne School earlier in his career. And he was like, man, don't do it. Don't let him talk you into going to Airborne School, though, you'll be stuck at Fort Bragg, you'll just you'll be broke all the time, you'll be hurting all the time, the army takes the fun out of everything. And he's right. To an extent the army does take the fun out of most things that touches. But I got to my first unit as an officer. So I'd done enlisted time for three years, then I went to Officer Candidate School. And then my first job as an officer was at the 55th combat camera company, which is not a full airborne unit, but it's a partial airborne unit. And they had a hard time keeping enough active duty paratroopers on hand. And so I remember day one, when I was in processing the unit, there are all these different places you go, when you're in process, you gotta go see the training room, and you got to go see the administrative room, and you got to go see the Transportation Office and all these places, and they're just checking your paperwork. And so I see the training room, and there's the sergeant in there. And he's looking through my list. And he's asking me all these questions, you know, when was your last PT test? Where's the last physical, you know, making notes on me for the unit record? And then he says, Do you want to go to Airborne School? And without thinking, I said, Absolutely not. I have no interest in going to Airborne School. And his reply to me was go ahead and get an airborne physical. And I thought, There's no way I'm ever getting an airborne physical because I'm not going to Airborne School. So a few weeks later, I'm in the unit, I'm more comfortable. And I'm across. I'm in a different office across the hall from where this guy worked. And I'm joking around with this other sergeant. And I'm like, sir, and you're just such a cool guy. Like you've got all together, you're, you're like everything I want to be when I grow up. What how do you do it? He said, Well, sir, you got to go to Airborne School. That's step one. The other guy across the hall ever hears that, you know, mouse ears, I don't know how. But he darts out of his office across the hall into this opposite we're in, looks me straight in the face and said, Did you say you want to go to Airborne School? Like no, is not what I said, I absolutely have no interest. I'm not going to Airborne School. And he again replies with schedule your physical. And I thought, I'm not going to disappoint me scheduling a fiscal. So I get back to my office that later that day. And I thought this guy is not going to give up. So I came up with this brilliant plan. It was smart, smartest plan you'll ever hear of, I'm going to pretend I'm going to get my airborne physical and then he'll forget about me, leave me alone. So I called him and said, Hey, Sergeant, what's the phone number I have to call them schedule an airborne physical and it gives me the phone number and the the name of the person to talk to and I said, Great. I'll talk to him. There were two or three other lieutenants set to show up to the unit next in the next month. So I thought he will assume I'm getting a physical which I'm not getting and there's other guys will show up and he will convince them to go and I will fall off his radar. I was incorrect. That was a bad bad miscalculation on my part, you might say a flawed operation   Michael Hingson ** 54:39 with your the and you were the one who was talking about brilliant people in the army Anyway, go ahead.   Chase Spears ** 54:43 I know I know. Right? Yeah, I am a paradox. And so that within an hour I get an email from him with my he's already put me in for school. I already have orders generated to go to jump school. And then he calls me he's like Hey, by the way, your report in like three weeks, I need your physical as soon as you can get it. And I thought this guy, I told him I'm not going to Airborne School. Well, at the same time, our unit commander was a paratrooper, and he loves jumping out of airplanes. And I had two or three paratroopers in my platoon who were underneath me. And I thought, There's no way I can go now. Because if I, if I get the commander to release me, one, I'll lose face with the old man. And I'll lose face with the troops that I lead because the soldiers have to compete for this. They're just giving it to me. And so I went, protesting, kicking, screaming the whole way. I hated ground week. I hated tower week. And then they put took me up to the 250 foot tower and dropped me off the side of it under a parachute. And I loved it. I was like, Oh, this is fun. I actually asked if I can do it again. And they said, they don't get what's right. So the next week, we go into jump week in there I am in the back of an airplane, and it comes to my turn to get up and exit it. And I do, and I get to the ground and I survive. And I literally just sat there and laughed uncontrollably because I couldn't believe I just jumped out of a plane. And it was my first of 40 jobs. So I was I was absolutely hooked from that moment on.   Michael Hingson ** 56:20 And what did Lori think of that?   Chase Spears ** 56:23 She was a little bit surprised. She She again, was supportive. But she was surprised she never thought it's something that I would take to and it ended up being a great thing for us. Because having been on jumped status, it opened the door for me to request the unit and Alaska that we ended up going to for six years, you had to be on airborne status to be able to go to that job. And so had I not going to jump school, I would not have qualified to go into Alaska for that particular job. And so it ended up being a wonderful, wonderful thing. But I would have never guessed it, it just it's another one of those poignant reminders to me that every time that I think I've got a plan, it's God's way of reminding me that he has a sense of humor, because what's going to work out is always going to be very different from what I think.   Michael Hingson ** 57:10 And you help Laurie see the world. So well worked out. Absolutely.   Chase Spears ** 57:15 Yeah, she we never, we never got to spend time together overseas. But Alaska was an amazing adventure. And, gosh, if if no one in your listeners haven't been there yet to go see a Sunday?   Michael Hingson ** 57:29 Yeah, I went there on a cruise I didn't see as much as I would have loved to but still, I got to see some of them. It was great.   Chase Spears ** 57:38 It's nothing like it. No. Now you   Michael Hingson ** 57:42 as you advance in the ranks, and so on you, you started being in public relations, being a communicator, and so on. But clearly, as you advanced, you became more and I'm sure were viewed as more of a leader that was kind of a transition from from not being a leader. And just being a communicator and doing what you were told to be more of a leader, what was that transition like?   Chase Spears ** 58:07 That was another one of those things that I would have never seen coming. After I did my three years as the spokesman for the Airborne Brigade. In Alaska, I ended up becoming the deputy communication director for US Army, Alaska, which was the highest army command there in the state responsible for 11,000 troops and their families in multiple locations. And I remember one day, my boss came to me and saying, hey, the general is going to give a speech to the hockey team at the University of Alaska, about leadership. And so I need you to write it. And I looked at him and I said, boss, all right, whatever he told me to write, but the general has forgotten more about leadership than I know, like, how do where do I start with this? And I don't remember the exact words, I think it was something to the effect of, you're smart, you'll figure it out. And so I put together a speech, it was by no means anything glorious, but it was the best I had to give that moment in time and what leadership was fully convinced that I was not one. And then over time, I there are people who spoken to me at their headquarters who called out leadership that I didn't see they were pointing out influence that I had there pointing out people who I was able to help steer towards decisions that I didn't realize that I didn't know and it made me start looking back in other parts of my career and realizing, Oh, my goodness, I actually led that team. This man actually looks to me for decisions. I actually I am a leader, I had no idea. There's something I always thought if if you were in the military and you're a leader, you were some grand master, you know, like, like Patton or Eisenhower and I didn't think think myself anything like that. And so finally, in 2015, I was offered A chance to take command of a company which in civilian terms, that's kind of like being the executive director, if you will, of an organization of 300 people. And I was so excited for it. Because by that point in time, I finally made the mental transition of saying, I'm not, I'm not merely a communicator, communicating is what I've done. But occasionally it's I've worked on delivering us on passionate about, by came to realize, I love that so much because communicating is a part of leading and, and I, I am a leader, it's just something. Looking back. Of course, my life has always been there, I just never knew it. I never saw it, I never believed in it. And so by the time I was offered the chance to command, I was very excited for it, I was very eager for it, because I realized this is going to be an a wonderful adventure getting to lead a team at this level of this size. And it was the hardest job I ever did in the army, and the most rewarding. I don't know if you've ever watched any of the Lord, Lord of the Rings movie. But there's this moment where Aragon is being chided, is set aside the Ranger Be who you were meant to be to be the king. And that meant that came back to my mind several times I had to challenge myself that just because I only see myself as a communicator all these years doesn't mean that I can't do other things. And so it was a joy to actually walk into that. Believing is not easy. There's there are a lot of hard days or a lot of hard decisions. Especially when I was a commander, I agonized every decision. So I made because I knew this will have an impact on a person, this will have an impact on a family this, this will change the directions and plans that people had. And so it's a heavy weight to bear. And I think it's good that those kind of decisions come with weight. And I would question someone who who can make those kinds of calls without having to wrestle with them.   Michael Hingson ** 1:02:01 When you look at all the things that you've done, and the work that you do, and the work that you did, at the end of every day, or at some time during the day, I know you were pretty busy. But did you ever have the time to just kind of sit back and reflect on how did this go today? How did that go? What could have been better? Did you do any kind of introspection? Or did you feel you had time to do that?   Chase Spears ** 1:02:24 I didn't really feel I had time. And it would be easy for me to blame the unit, it'd be easy for me to blame people. But that responsibility rests with me. It's a discipline that I didn't develop until way too late in my career. And I eventually did develop it, I eventually came to realize the importance of reflection of introspection of taking a mental inventory of what I've accomplished I didn't accomplish and what I can learn from it. But it was sadly something that I didn't do as much as I should have. And I didn't do it as early, I was really, really bad at assuming well, because the unit needs this right now. I can't take care of this thing that I need to take care of that will that will allow me to be the leader that I need to be you know, I get in a car, someone slams on my car, and I need to get them to take care of it. Why don't have time unit Scott has to have me We gotta move on. Well, I've got six screws in my left hand and my left shoulder right now because I was always too busy to listen to the physical therapist and take care of myself, you know, the unit needs me the unit needs me the men need me. And so it, it was a hard, hard learned lesson. The importance of sitting back and reflecting is something I wish I would have learned much sooner. But once I did, it served me well. And it's a discipline that I still practice now.   Michael Hingson ** 1:03:46 Yeah, yeah, it's, I think a very important thing. And a lot of things can can stem from that. What's the best position your favorite position in the army and why?   Chase Spears ** 1:03:59 The best thing I ever got to do is company command. And it's hard to say that because it's really it's really closely tied with being a brigade director of communication. And t

Mark Greene is passionate about building networks and guiding high performers in their new careers. A former Navy SEAL, his experiences offer invaluable insights into the human spirit's resilience and the power of support and community in navigating life's transitions. Despite facing a career-ending injury in football and dropping out of college, Mark's resilience led him to become a Navy SEAL. He completed BUD/S in 1997 and served on SEAL Team FIVE from 1997 to 2002. After graduating from Officer Candidate School in 2004, Mark served as a Sniper Instructor at the Naval Special Warfare Sniper School, Assistant Officer in Charge of SEAL Team EIGHT, and Detachment Officer in Charge of Special Boat Team TWENTY. In 2008, he earned his MBA in Defense Focused Financial Management from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, and then served as Officer In Charge of SEAL Team EIGHT. Since transitioning from the military, Mark has dedicated himself to supporting those in the Special Operations community in their journey to civilian success. He is an esteemed author and speaker, and his story will resonate profoundly with your audience, providing both inspiration and practical wisdom for facing life's toughest challenges. Mark is the author of “UNSEALED: A Navy SEAL's Guide to Mastering Life's Transitions.” Amid his accomplishments, his true happiness lies in being a devoted father to four wonderful children.    In this episode of The Next Level, we discuss:   Mark's upbringing as a military brat and his experience playing college football  His journey from flunking out of college to becoming a SEAL  Mark's experience at BUD/S and his mindset and approach to the preparation and training  The lessons learned as an instructor at Naval Special Warfare Sniper School and how Mark grew as a leader  Mark's leadership style and how it has evolved throughout his career and life experiences    Connect with Mark:  https://www.themarkgreene.com/  On all social media platforms @themarkgreene    The Next Level Podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.     To book Mark as a Featured Keynote Speaker for your next event, please visit https://teamperformanceinstitute.com/keynote/.

Mark Greene is passionate about building networks and guiding high performers in their new careers. A former Navy SEAL, his experiences offer invaluable insights into the human spirit's resilience and the power of support and community in navigating life's transitions. Despite facing a career-ending injury in football and dropping out of college, Mark's resilience led him to become a Navy SEAL. He completed BUD/S in 1997 and served on SEAL Team FIVE from 1997 to 2002. After graduating from Officer Candidate School in 2004, Mark served as a Sniper Instructor at the Naval Special Warfare Sniper School, Assistant Officer in Charge of SEAL Team EIGHT, and Detachment Officer in Charge of Special Boat Team TWENTY. In 2008, he earned his MBA in Defense Focused Financial Management from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, and then served as Officer In Charge of SEAL Team EIGHT. Since transitioning from the military, Mark has dedicated himself to supporting those in the Special Operations community in their journey to civilian success. He is an esteemed author and speaker, and his story will resonate profoundly with your audience, providing both inspiration and practical wisdom for facing life's toughest challenges. Mark is the author of “UNSEALED: A Navy SEAL's Guide to Mastering Life's Transitions.” Amid his accomplishments, his true happiness lies in being a devoted father to four wonderful children.    In this episode of The Next Level, we discuss:   Mark's upbringing as a military brat and his experience playing college football  His journey from flunking out of college to becoming a SEAL  Mark's experience at BUD/S and his mindset and approach to the preparation and training  The lessons learned as an instructor at Naval Special Warfare Sniper School and how Mark grew as a leader  Mark's leadership style and how it has evolved throughout his career and life experiences    Connect with Mark:  https://www.themarkgreene.com/  On all social media platforms @themarkgreene    The Next Level Podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.     To book Mark as a Featured Keynote Speaker for your next event, please visit https://teamperformanceinstitute.com/keynote/.

I was very happy to catch up with my Marine Corps' Officer Candidate School bunk mate on this episode of the podcast.  Pete is a great guy and he, along with Brian Sullivan, helped me get through OCS. The three of us remain close friends to this day.  After receiving his Marine Corps' commission, Pete served as a Marine Corps officer for many years before moving to the DEA for the rest of his professional career.  Here is the thing that I have always liked about Swick – in the email he sent to me about scheduling this podcast, he puts this on the bottom of his email signature, and I couldn't love this any more than I do!

Brian and I met under very unique and stressful circumstances when we were 20 years old at the US Marine Corps' Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia. This article in the Washington Post made me question my decision to attend OCS.  I then ended up  watching this movie, Baby Blue Marine, with Jan Michael Vincent, the night before leaving for Quantico.  As a result, I was extremely concerned about my upcoming fate at Quantico!  Sully and my bunkmate, Pete Swicker, made the time and stress at OCS manageable and the three of us still talk to this day. It is hard to believe that over 40 years have passed by since we first met. I enjoyed catching up with Brian on this episode.  

In this final part of his interview, Kim talks about the Battle of Anzio, earning the Distinguished Service Cross, and his feelings about the war.  – Young Oak Kim was born in Los Angeles to a Korean family in 1919. He tried enlisting prior to World War II, but was denied due to his race. When war finally broke out in Europe, Congress passed the Selective Training Service Act of 1940, requiring all men between the ages of 21 and 45, regardless of race, to register for the draft. Kim was among the first group of men allied up, and he entered the Army in January 1941. Racism, exacerbated by Japan's role in the war, was commonplace both in and out of the military. Despite proving himself to be an exceptional shooter during training, Kim was initially denied the opportunity to fight in the war because he had the “wrong color skin and wrong color eyes”. Eventually, Kim's skill was recognized by his superiors and he was elected for Officer Candidate School, graduating in February 1943. From there, Kim was assigned as the second platoon leader of Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion. The 100th was a racially segregated unit composed mostly of second generation Japanese Americans (known as Nisei) from Hawaii. Following the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the 100th was removed from Hawaii and sent to the mainland for training.  Kim and the 100th Infantry Battalion were sent to Italy in September of 1943. They fought in the Battle of Monte Cassino and the Battle of Anzio, and earned the nickname “The Purple Heart Battalion” due their high casualty rate. Kim was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for an incredible midnight infiltration mission, which he talks about in the next episode.  After leaving Italy, the 100th Infantry Battalion became part of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, another segregated Nisei regiment, and sent to France. Kim was injured by enemy fire at Biffontaine, and was sent back to the US, later earning a Silver Star and the French Croix de Guerre for his actions in France. Germany surrendered before he was able to return. Kim left the Army following World War II, but when war broke out in Korea, he rejoined. He commanded a South Korean guerrilla unit, and was awarded another Silver Star for his actions there.  Kim left Korea in 1952. He then worked as an instructor at Fort Benning, and at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth. He retired in 1972 at the rank of colonel as one of the most highly decorated Asian American soldiers in U.S. history with a total of 19 medals.  The 100th also made history, becoming one of the most highly decorated units of World War II. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this first part of his interview, COL Kim talks about joining the Army, serving as a Korean American in World War II, and the Battle of Monte Cassino – Young Oak Kim was born in Los Angeles to a Korean family in 1919. He tried enlisting prior to World War II, but was denied due to his race. When war finally broke out in Europe, Congress passed the Selective Training Service Act of 1940, requiring all men between the ages of 21 and 45, regardless of race, to register for the draft. Kim was among the first group of men allied up, and he entered the Army in January 1941. Racism, exacerbated by Japan's role in the war, was commonplace both in and out of the military. Despite proving himself to be an exceptional shooter during training, Kim was initially denied the opportunity to fight in the war because he had the “wrong color skin and wrong color eyes”. Eventually, Kim's skill was recognized by his superiors and he was elected for Officer Candidate School, graduating in February 1943. From there, Kim was assigned as the second platoon leader of Company B, 100th Infantry Battalion. The 100th was a racially segregated unit composed mostly of second generation Japanese Americans (known as Nisei) from Hawaii. Following the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the 100th was removed from Hawaii and sent to the mainland for training.  Kim and the 100th Infantry Battalion were sent to Italy in September of 1943. They fought in the Battle of Monte Cassino and the Battle of Anzio, and earned the nickname “The Purple Heart Battalion” due their high casualty rate. Kim was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for an incredible midnight infiltration mission, which he talks about in the next episode.  After leaving Italy, the 100th Infantry Battalion became part of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, another segregated Nisei regiment, and sent to France. Kim was injured by enemy fire at Biffontaine, and was sent back to the US, later earning a Silver Star and the French Croix de Guerre for his actions in France. Germany surrendered before he was able to return. Kim left the Army following World War II, but when war broke out in Korea, he rejoined. He commanded a South Korean guerrilla unit, and was awarded another Silver Star for his actions there.  Kim left Korea in 1952. He then worked as an instructor at Fort Benning, and at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth. He retired in 1972 at the rank of colonel as one of the most highly decorated Asian American soldiers in U.S. history with a total of 19 medals.  The 100th also made history, becoming one of the most highly decorated units of World War II.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education and military training, partnerships between academic institutions and the armed forces have become increasingly crucial. Penn State has one such partnership with the Marine Corps in the form of a fellowship program. Today we are joined by Lieutenant Colonel Michael ‘Adam' Taylor and Major Sean O'Rourke to discuss Penn State's Marines Corps Logistics Fellowship Program and how it has honed their professional skillsets and helps support their military strategies for agile supply chains.   About Guest(s) Lieutenant Colonel Michael “Adam” Taylor Lieutenant Colonel Taylor attended the University of West Florida in Pensacola, FL where he received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After graduation, he attended Officer's Candidate Course in Quantico, VA and was commissioned to Second Lieutenant in March 2005. Lieutenant Colonel Taylor's education includes: Officer Candidate School, The Basic School, Ground Supply Officer's Course, Combined Logistics Captains Career Course, Air Force Command and Staff College, Logistics Support to Sensitive Activities, U.S. Navy Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape School, Finnish Defence Forces Civil Military Cooperation Course, Theater Special Operations Command Course, Recruiter Management Course, and the UNC LogTech Advanced course.  Most recently, from June 2021 to June 2023, LtCol Taylor served as the Commanding Officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 2 in Camp Lejeune, NC. During his tenure, his command participated in cold-weather exercises in Norway, Sweden, Bridgeport Ca, and deployed to Quantico, VA to set up a sustainment camp and provide all logistical support for 5,000 Afghan refugees fleeing Taliban rule in 2021. After relinquishing command in June 2023, LtCol Taylor reported to Pennsylvania State University as a Commandant of the Marine Corps Fellow to pursue a Master in Science in Supply Chain Management. Major Sean O'Rourke Major Sean O'Rourke is a Logistics Officer from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and a graduate of the University of Minnesota.  Over his 15 years of active service, he has served in command and staff positions in all elements of the MAGTF, including two combat deployments to Helmand Province Afghanistan and a sea tour in the Pacific.  His previous Fleet Marine Force units include 1st Battalion, 8th Marines; the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit; 3d Maintenance Battalion; and Marine Aircraft Group 26; serving as a Company Commander and Group Executive Officer. His logistics billets include Maintenance Management Officer, Motor Transport Officer, S-4A, S-4, and Intermediate Maintenance Company Commander.  In the Supporting Establishment, he served as a Faculty Advisor, Academics Officer, and Company Commander at Logistics Operations School and Officer Candidates School. He is currently attending Penn State as a Marine Corps Logistics Fellow.

-Mark Swinger is a retired Naval Aviator and former Left Wingman (#3) for the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels -After the completion of Officer Candidate School and U.S. Navy Flight School, he became Designated Naval Aviator in July of 2002, and went on to serve just under 23 years on Active Duty flying the F-14D Tomcat and all variants of F-18 Hornet and Super Hornet-He completed a total of 7 Aircraft Carrier Deployments, including multiple combat deployments in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. During this time he logged over 3700 flight hours and over 800 successful Air Craft Carrier landings-From 2008 to 2009, he flew as the Left Wingman (#3) and Slot Pilot/Training Officer (#4) for Blue Angels, a flight demonstration squadron of the US Navy. It was here where he traveled country to demonstrate the aerial capabilities of the Super Hornet-He holds an undergraduate degree from University of Delaware, a Masters in Business Administration from Washington State University, and is currently a 737 pilot for United AirlinesFirstNet Built with AT&T:http://www.firstnet.com/healthandwellnessBuilding Homes for Heroes:https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:app.o2x.comLet us know what you think:Website - http://o2x.comIG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

In Episode 2, we hear from CW5(R) Chris Haynes, the Course Manager for Warrant Officer Candidate School at USAWOCC, Ft. Novosel, AL. Mr. Haynes talks about WOCS curriculum modernization, intended learning outcomes, academic rigor, and preparation for success during WOCS.To learn more information about WOCS and Warrant Officership, visit USAWOCC here: https://armyuniversity.edu/wocc/courses?p=OverviewResults of the Academic Rigor Working Group, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8c7LZziInvYThe foundational basis for CFDIC can be found at https://www.moore.army.mil/CFDP_INST_HW/content/Adult%20Teaching%20and%20Learning%20Users%20Guide%20ver%203.pdfFor current PDFs of resources discussed (FM 3-0, ADP 6-0, ADP 6-22, FM 6-22, FM 7-22), please reference https://armypubs.army.milYou can find more information about the Warrant Officer Historical Foundation at https://www.warrantofficerhistory.org . Please visit us on Instagram @WOHF1918, Twitter @WOHF1918, and on the Warrant Officer Historical Foundation LinkedIn page. Visit warrantofficerhistory.org to learn more about how you can help support the foundation and programs like this.Stay current with Warrant Officer ideas! All current Strength in Knowledge Journal Issues are posted at https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/Warrant-Officer-Journal/Please also feel free to connect with the United States Army Warrant Officer Association at https://usawoa.org and visit their Facebook page @UnitedStatesArmyWarrantOfficerAssociation or the US Army Warrant Officer Career College @TheU.S.ArmyWarrantOfficerCareerCollegeTheme music (intro &  outtro) composed by SFC(R) Joshua DiStefano. https://joshdistefano.com/ Ceremonial music provided by https://www.usarmyband.com/ceremonial-music-guide

Kathy joins Dawn breaking down the path forward for Vivek, the state of the Trump campaign, the Vivek NY Post story breaking down his NFL opinions, is the league rigged to prop up Biden and Taylor Swift? State of the border... and what Trump can do to gain moderates and overcome the Democrat messaging in 2024...  Kathy Barnette is a conservative, Black, mother, and wife. She is a veteran, a former adjunct Professor of Corporate Finance, a conference speaker, and a Conservative political commentator. She served her country proudly for ten years in the Armed Forces Reserves, where she was accepted into Officer Candidate School. Her corporate career includes working with two major financial institutions and in corporate America. Kathy sat on the Board of a pregnancy crisis center for five years. Tune in weekdays 10 AM - 12 PM EST weekdays on Talk Radio 1210 WPHT; or on the Audacy app!

Sergeant Jim Purvis served in the Army as an infantryman during the Vietnam War. In this interview, he recounts being kicked out of Officer Candidate School, his time in Vietnam, and how Vietnam differed from previous American military conflicts. “Anytime you have a war, it's a very, very sad experience.” - SGT Purvis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marty joined the United States Navy (USN) in 1975 and served 20 years as a Navy SEAL (Sea, Air and Land). Completing 10 years as an Enlisted SEAL, and then becoming an Officer for a further 10 years, reaching the rank of Lieutenant (LT). In this episode Marty talks about joining the U.S. Navy and being talked into becoming a Navy SEAL, after his orders got mixed up during Boot Camp. He gives some great information about the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, and his time in SEAL Team 2. He talks about working with other Special Forces around the world, including the British Special Boat Service (SBS), all before becoming a BUD/S instructor himself. Marty also shares his mindset behind moving from his Enlisted position, and going through Officer Candidate School, to become an Officer in the SEAL teams. His time at SEAL Team 4 was a testament to his leadership abilities, which lead to him being assigned to the SEALs Strategy and Tactics Group, before transitioning out of the U.S. Navy. Since leaving the military, Marty has become an author and released many SEAL Novels and Business Books.Watch Episode on YouTubePart 1: youtu.be/TtPAmnZbc0YPart 2: youtu.be/WxdmPgtg5zcTikTok:tiktok.com/@militaryveteranspodcastInstagram:instagram.com/militaryveteranspodcastTwitter:twitter.com/MilVetPodcastLinkedIn:linkedin.com/company/military-veterans-podcastMerchandise:milvetpodcast.com/merchIf you've enjoyed any episode from the show, please head over to Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and give the show a 5 star rating. It really will help the show be found by others. Many thanks! Message at the end of the recording is from your host Gav, giving you information on how you can support the show through Patreon.Supporting monthly would help the show record future episodes and help with the upkeep of previous recordings. £5 a month will give you access to bonus recordings, where Gav and the guest chat about things that don't make it into the main recording. Thank you.Support the show

Candace enlisted in the military, attending Officer Candidate School to earn her commission in the U.S. Army. Her assignments include service with the Joint Special Operations Command and the 18th Airborne Corps. She is a combat veteran and was part of both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.     For the past 15 years, Candace has served at both the local and international level through mission trips and service projects. In August 2021, Candace and her husband joined other volunteers in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., to assist with the evacuation of our Allies from Afghanistan. She served as the site manager for the Emirates Humanitarian City in Abu Dhabi, serving approximately 15,000 Afghans.  She is currently the Chief Operations Officer for The Black Feather Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on helping refugee children acclimate to their new environment through sports.   Candace has been married for 23 years to retired Special Forces (SF) Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Joe Cieslo.  They have three biological children and are also the legal guardians of three Afghan Refugee minors.  She was awarded a 4-year, full scholarship to play for Georgetown University Women's Basketball Team, that became the Big East Co-Champion and a Sweet 16 participant in 1993. Sponsored By: Diesel Jack Media: https://dieseljackmedia.com/ Warrior Rising: http://www.warriorrising.org The Neutral Position is Hosted by Nick Palmisciano Nick Palmisciano is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Filmmaker, Founding Board Member of the international rescue non-profit Save Our Allies, and the CEO of the full-service marketing agency Diesel Jack Media. Nick is a Graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and received his MBA from Duke University. He received the prestigious “Entrepreneur of the Year” award from the Entrepreneur Organization in 2015 and is a proud recipient of the U.S. Army Ranger Tab. You can find this episode wherever podcasts are streamed:  Itunes: https://apple.co/3MrPlNE Spotify: http://bit.ly/43dBUGS Facebook: https://bit.ly/3mf56wD Instagram: https://bit.ly/3ZRY7Hq TikTok: http://bit.ly/3A0bhrL Nick Palmisciano Facebook: https://bit.ly/43h4erR Twitter: https://bit.ly/40SKQ2N

It was a humbling opportunity to have Coast Guard, Captain Taylor Lam as the guest on this episode. Taylor models powerful servant leadership describing how the Sector San Francisco Command Philosophy was developed in collaboration with those he has been called to lead. He also illustrates some powerful examples on the importance of connection that highlight how vital that is today for keeping top talent and engaging the people we have. We dialogue about communication and provide some great food for thought for ALL to consider on how effective communications really are at every level in our organizations. Taylor inspires people to take on challenges from a safe place because he models that behavior and shares some insights on how we can do that too.  Captain Lam assumed command of Sector San Francisco in June 2021. Prior to this assignment, he completed an assignment as a national security fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.  While in command, he recently completed a one-year Executive Leadership Program at the Naval Postgraduate School's Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) in Monterey, CA.  Captain Lam is a native of Riverside, CA and enlisted in the United States Coast Guard in 1996 through the College Student Pre-commissioning Initiative (CSPI) and graduated from Basic Training in Cape May, NJ. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, he graduated from Officer Candidate School.   His previous operational units include service as Deputy Commander of Sector Boston, Commanding Officer of Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) Los Angeles – Long Beach, Command Center and Enforcement Chief at Sector Miami, Detachment Officer-in-Charge (OIC) and plank owner of MSST Seattle, Law Enforcement Detachment OIC at Tactical Law Enforcement Team North, and Deck Watch Officer on the Cutter MUNRO in Alameda, CA.  Captain Lam's previous staff and advanced education assignments include service as Special Assistant to the 30th Vice Commandant, Coast Guard Fellow in the late U.S. Senator Thad Cochran's personal staff addressing homeland security appropriations, the Atlantic Area Commander's staff managing six MSSTs, and attending a fully-funded advanced education program in Williamsburg, VA.  He is a graduate from the University of California, Riverside, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, a graduate from Boston University's Master of Arts program in criminal justice, and a graduate from the College of William and Mary's Master's program in public policy.  Resources: Brené Brown - Video on Empathy  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Evwgu369Jw Bryce Ward - Washington Post Opinion - Americans are spending more time alone. Here's why we should reverse that.  https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/11/23/americans-alone-thanksgiving-friends/ Naval Postgraduate School - Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) Leadership Programs  https://www.chds.us/c/ Admiral William H. McRaven - he Wisdom of the Bullfrog:  Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy)  The Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy)   Leonard J. Marcus, Eric J. McNulty, Joseph M. Henderson, & Barry C. Dorn - You're It:  Crisis, Change, and How To Lead When it Matters Most You're It: Crisis, Change, and How to Lead When It Matters Most 

Welcome to The Nonlinear Library, where we use Text-to-Speech software to convert the best writing from the Rationalist and EA communities into audio. This is: About my job: "Plans Officer", published by Weaver on September 10, 2023 on The Effective Altruism Forum. I've been a plans Officer for the United States Army Reserve since 2021. People have no clue what reservists do and much less what "Active Guard Reserve" Soldiers do, and I see it's Career Week, so here's my job. Also I'm shamelessly stealing Lizkas format, so thank her for me writing this. Note that anything written here is my opinion and does not represent the department of defense, or any US Government agency. My background & how I got here I studied Computer Science in college and graduate into the great recession of 2008. After not getting the exact job I wanted (Marine Officer), I went to the Army recruiter and they gave me the option to be an Army Reserve Quartermaster Officer. I wanted something more active, but since Officer Candidate School was very competitive I wasn't in the top. I served part time as a Platoon Leader, Company Commander and Company Executive Officer. I interviewed with a different unit to change my branch to Civil Affairs, transferred to the unit and then served there as a Battalion Logistics Officer (S4) until I got called to go to first deploy, then school. My small school team of four Captains placed in the top six(Commandants List) of our approximately 60 person class and I was a Civil Affairs(CA) Officer after about 8 years. I credit my time working alongside CA officers as a large part of how well I did. At the same time I worked as a state department contractor full time. I also was going through Nursing school for most of it, though I didn't make it through. During my deployment, I was always trying to quantify how much we were doing and I had problems doing so. I read books like Dead Aid and Toxic Charity, trying to get a sense of how to 'do international development' and 'foreign aid'. You might think that this is why I joined EA. Nope. My writing partner made me read Harry Potter and the Methods of Rationality and then, yes you can guess the rest. I got picked up for a 3 year tour of AGR and decided to put my civilian career on hold and see if I liked it. What I actually work on There is a very specific scope of things that only I do, mostly long range planning, facilitation, writing policy and working on strategy/prioritization for my organization. This includes everything that is mandated for the unit I work for to do to what is directed at a local level for us to do. Most of my work is office work, over various lovely software, and some of it is field work. Here is what I do normally: Field questions from people inside the unit Answer Requests for Information (RFIs) from higher echelons or sister units Write Operations Orders and iron out short term plans Be the telephone between two organizations that need to talk. I also run several meetings that are ad hoc or weekly dependent. I've had to work with a lot of people and I have met so many good people. It's not EA, but they all want to make a difference. Reflecting on the Role I opted into a very specialized career field in an already specialized group. I love the people and the unit culture is great, but they ask a lot of the part timers. Some things I value: I'm expected to work independently. If the work is done, then it's done. I'm not waiting around for someone's input normally. I get to work with top performers regularly. I get to mentor a lot of junior Officers and Enlisted, which is a big draw. Some things that can be hard: I'm not in charge, I just work here. Even though I plan a lot in advance, sometimes the commanders will choose to take a different path, upending a lot of my work. There's a lot of things that need to be on a regulatory timeline that I can not change. This is fine, except when people try to get around it. Some Skills I develop in this job: Lan...

The Everyday Sniper Podcast: Maj Land Sniper Cup  Coming up, Oct 7 & 8 2023 in Virginia at the Black Bear facility, the Major Land Sniper's Cup.  We had Gary Conner, Ryan Brandt, Joel Russo and Ron Kuykendall on the Zoom Call.  Major Land,  The honorary match director is one of the most influential men in the Sniper community. Major Land joined the Marine Corps at the age of 17. Land went on to become a Staff Sergeant and drill instructor before his selection to Officer Candidate School in 1959. As a commissioned officer assigned to the 4th Marine Regiment Land demonstrated his aptitude for competitive shooting and was selected for the Marine Corps Rifle Team. In 1961 he founded the first modern Marine sniper course.  The Match,  Unique for the East Coast, this match will challenge shooters of all skills sets. As well, those participating as Range Officers can shoot and walk the prize table.  Ryan Brandt of Big Dog Steel will be working on Match Director alongside Maj Land and Gary Conner. Targets will be from pistol ranges to beyond 1 Mile.  Average range is 800 to 1200 yards.  https://majorlandsnipercup.com/ https://armysniperassociation.org/ https://bigdogsteel.com/ https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/major-land-sniper%E2%80%99s-cup-2023.7167395/ https://terminusactions.com/ Thanks for listening, thanks for sharing, thanks for being a part of the Everyday Sniper podcast.  Sniper's Hide Website  https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/   For the Serious Tactical Marksman #snipershide #Lowlight #precisionrifle #practicalmarksmanship  #sniper #practicalmarksmanship #military #LawEnforcement  #LongRangeHunting #Hunt #FirearmsTraining #2ndAmendment #TheHide #Rifleman #EvilLeprechaun   

Episode 2 with guest medical operations planner (70H) and Observer Coach trainer (O/CT), MAJ(P) Jessica Maxim we discuss personal observations and experiences from the perspective of an O/CT from the Mission Command Training Program (MCTP) to help you in your assignment on the Division Surgeon Cell as a medical operations planner.   MAJ(P) Jessica L. Maxim graduated from the University of Wyoming with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Health Sciences and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2002. She enlisted in the Army in 2006 and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 2007.  MAJ(P) Maxim served in the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team (ABCT), 4th Infantry Division (2/4ID) at Fort Carson as the Treatment Platoon Leader (PL) in Charlie Company, 204th Brigade support Battalion (BSB). She deployed with 2/4ID to Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) 08-10 where she was a Detachment OIC and Treatment PL. Upon return from Iraq, MAJ(P) Maxim served as the Delta Troop, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment Forward Support Company Executive Officer (XO), the Charlie Company, 204th BSB Medical Company XO, the Support Operations (SPO) Supply and Services Officer, and Battalion Operations Officer (S3). MAJ(P) Maxim deployed to Afghanistan in 2011 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) 11-12 where she commanded Charlie Company, 204th BSB, 2/4ID. She and her organization provided area medical support and augmented Special Operations Task Force 310 with cultural support teams (CST) in the Kandahar Province. After relinquishing command in 2013, MAJ(P) Maxim served at the Maneuver Center of Excellence, Directorate of Training as the Medical Operations Instructor at Fort Moore, GA. She served as the 3rd Battalion, 11th Infantry Regiment (Officer Candidate School) XO from 2014-2015, and at Martin Army Community Hospital (BMACH) as the Chief of Medical Readiness and Training before serving at Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), WA in 2017. MAJ(P) Maxim served as the Chief of Medical Operations at 7th Infantry Division and America's First Corps. MAJ(P) Maxim is currently stationed at Fort Leavenworth where she is an Observer Coach/Trainer (OC/T) for the Mission Command Training Program (MCTP).  MAJ(P) Maxim's military schooling includes Officer Candidate School, Basic Officer Leader's Course Phase II (BOLC II), the Medical Service Officer Basic Course (MSOBC), Combatives Levels 1 and 2, Unit Movement Officer, Battle Command Sustainment Support System (BCS3) Operator Course, Commander/1SG Course, Digital Training Management System Operator Course, Army Basic Instructor Course, Faculty Development Course, AMEDD Captain's Career Course, Command and General Staff College, Joint Medical Planners Course, and Joint Medical Planners Tool (JMPT) / Medical Planners Toolkit (MPTk). Her awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2OLC), Army Commendation Medal (1OLC), Army Achievement Medal (2OLC), National Defense Service Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal (2 campaigns), Afghan Campaign Medal (2 campaigns), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbons, and a NATO (ISAF) Medal. Her unit awards include the Valorous Unit Award and the Meritorious Unit Citation. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are the guests and host's alone and do not reflect the official position of the Medical Service Corps, the Department of Defense, or the US Government. All information discussed is unclassified approved for public release and found on open cleared sources.For more episodes listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube @ Be All You Can Be MSC For more information, suggestions, or questions please contact: beallyoucanbemsc@gmail.com

Welcome to episode 61 of "So There I Was"! Get ready to be captivated by an extraordinary tale that starts with a group of Vietnam buddies, hunting pheasants and sharing stories on a family farm. Little did they know, these gatherings would ignite a passion in a young boy, propelling him to become a Marine helicopter pilot. But here's the twist - Doober already had a staggering 1000 hours of flight time before he even attended Officer Candidate School! His journey continued as a high school student, working alongside his father as a ground controller for heavy lift operations. The foundation was being laid for something truly remarkable. In flight school, Doober's extensive flight experience couldn't stay hidden for long. A daring move that shouldn't be repeated revealed his true skills, setting the stage for his entrance into the legendary Ugly Angels, HMH-362, and earning the callsign "Doober" along the way. But that was just the beginning. Doober's career took an unexpected turn as he found himself flying the President and Vice President in HMX-1, the prestigious Marine Helicopter Squadron responsible for such crucial duties. And when it seemed like the story had reached its climax, Doober made a life-altering decision. He retired from the Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel and returned to the family farm, where his journey had all begun. Throughout his incredible journey, one person stood out as a guiding force - his dad. Prepare to be inspired as we delve deeper into Doober's extraordinary life. This episode of "So There I Was" is brought to you by Hello Fresh, America's #1 Meal Kit. Get ready to indulge in delicious, hassle-free cooking. Visit hellofresh.com/sothereiwas16 for an exclusive offer of 16 free meals and free shipping. Stay tuned for more details about Hello Fresh during the show! Doober & Dad in the simulator Dad & Doober Go in the Corps Doober in Front of Marine 1

Are you ready for another heartwarming episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin? We're honored to have Dr. Walt Larimore join us as he shares his touching tribute to his late father. In this emotional discussion, we'll hear about the incredible life lessons that Dr. Larimore learned from his dad, and how those lessons continue to shape him today. As a renowned physician, author and speaker, Dr. Larimore has inspired countless people with his wisdom and compassion - but it all started with the guidance of his beloved father. Join us as we dive into their relationship and explore the profound impact that fathers can have on their children's lives.So grab your tissues and get ready for an unforgettable conversation! Tune in to Chats from the Blog Cabin to experience this heartfelt tribute firsthand - trust us, you won't want to miss it

Hello to you listening in Teaneck, New Jersey!Coming to you from Whidbey Island Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Motivate Your Monday and your host, Diane Wyzga.As the younger brother my dad did what all younger brothers do: follow their older brothers. In this case dad enlisted in the US Navy to fight in World War II. He was underage. How did he get in? He lied. He had a piece of paper in his shoe with the number 18 written on it. When dad was asked if he was over 18 he truthfully replied, Yes.Dad served as a radioman. All 5 brothers saw action, were honorably discharged and came home in good condition. I have an ancient newspaper clipping with a photo of my grandmother receiving a medal from the mayor thanking her for sending her boys to help Uncle Sam.Having fallen in love with this family story and the movie, South Pacific, there was no other choice for me but to apply to Officer Candidate School after graduating from college. I was commissioned as an Ensign and reported for duty to Portsmouth Naval Hospital, Surgical Pediatric ward. I number these years as a USNavy nurse among the finest of my life. Today I say “Thank you with gratitude!” to my dad, my uncles, and all servicemen and women for the privilege of military service.  You're invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe, share a 5-star rating + nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out What I Offer,✓ Arrange your free Story Starter Session + Bonus gift,✓ Opt In to my monthly Newsletter for valuable tips & techniques to enhance your story work, and✓ Stay current with Diane and on LinkedIn.Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present: for credit & attribution Quarter Moon Story Arts

How do you advocate without being an activist in the military? Are they separate?  Can you rock the boat without tipping it over? How do you move the needle on inclusion in spaces that are dead set against your presence?  How do you criticize a policy and maintain your obligation to the chain of command from leadership?  How do you use media to tell your story when seeking a broader change?We will address these critical topics as I chatted with Blake Dremann about how he succeeded on active duty and became a face of a cause. At the same time, the politicians debated what was then (and still is) a controversial issue. He has taught me so much in my advocacy journey and how to push for change correctly. Commander Blake Dremann serves as the Supply Officer and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul – Logistics Deputy Director at Fleet Readiness Center – East in Cherry Point, NC. Commander Dremann is a native of St. Louis, MO.  He is a 2003 graduate from Ozark Christian College, received his commission through Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, FL, in 2006, and attended Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA. Dremann's operational assignments include Supply Officer, USS Maine (SSBN 741), earning Maine's second Logistics Excellence Award and recipient of the 2015 Vice Admiral Robert F. Batchelder Award and division officer afloat as Food Service Officer, Disbursing Officer and Assistant Supply Officer, USS Denver (LPD 9). Dremann's personal decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2), the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (4). He is qualified as a Submarine and Surface Warfare Supply officer and an Acquisition Corps member.  Commander Dremann received the 2018 Department of Defense Pride Military Leadership Award, Modern Military Association of America's “Outstanding Advocate” Honoree for their 25th Anniversary, and was named a 2019 Out in National Security Next Generation Leader.In 2019, he testified before the HASC Personnel Committee along with four other trans service members and the current President of the American Medical Association Jesse Ehrenfeld. He was also president of the non-profit SPARTA from 2016-2019, whose mission is to advocate for inclusive military policy, provide peer support and develop transgender military service educational resources.Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com

There are some people who can pack so much living into life. My guest today is certainly one of those people. Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver has lived an extraordinary life. Growing up in Georgia, he loved "playing army" on the large expanse of land, some 3500 acres of family farm. But, even then, he never dreamed of a military career that spanned nearly 40 years! What's makes his journey even more extraordinary is that he initially enlisted in the Army as a private and worked his way up through the ranks, all the way to General! You'll enjoy the way it all started, with a Sergeant Major "suggesting' he fill out the paperwork for OCS, Officer Candidate School. From there, we will talk about his military experiences until he received the nod and entered the ranks of the elite club of Generals. And though he was near the top of the pyramid in rank, he admits that his wife always did, and still does, outrank him! Don't miss the leadership takeaways from the army that has served him both in life and business. You'll also hear his interesting story of what lured him and his wife, to the lake. And that, despite his intentions to take a well-deserved retirement and spend his days fishing, a 4 Star General and a different call to duty, were partly responsible for him starting a brand new business and fulfilling an incredibly important function. This was first for the army, then other military, and then the government and now across many industries. When you hear what his company is capable of doing, you will wonder how it is not in Silicon Valley or another large research center. But the General found a way to make it work right here in Eatonton, GA and after 15 years is one of the most respected firms in his industry. The work they do will blow your mind, and make you proud knowing that the important work they do is done right down the road! General Rodeheaver demonstrates an exemplary life of serving. It's time to meet this remarkable man! Guest - Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver https://www.vizitechusa.com/ Sponsors - Farmers & Merchants Bank; Lake Oconee Bistro; Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://www.lakeoconeebistro.com/ https://www.mydowntownagency.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tbprotectincome https://ibankfmb.com/

In this episode Jeb talks with Brigadier General (R) Harrison B. Gilliam - Outreach & Development Director of Special Forces Charitable Trust. Brigadier General (R) Harrison B. Gilliam was commissioned as a second lieutenant in June 1991 following attendance at Officer Candidate School. He completed the Special Forces Qualification Course in 1993 and served in a variety of positions within the Special Forces community over the last 30 years. To learn more about Special Forces Charitable Trust, please visit https://www.specialforcescharitabletrust.org/

There are some people who can pack so much living into life. My guest today is certainly one of those people. Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver has lived an extraordinary life. Growing up in Georgia, he loved "playing army" on the large expanse of land, some 3500 acres of family farm. But, even then, he never dreamed of a military career that spanned nearly 40 years! What's makes his journey even more extraordinary is that he initially enlisted in the Army as a private and worked his way up through the ranks, all the way to General! You'll enjoy the way it all started, with a Sergeant Major "suggesting' he fill out the paperwork for OCS, Officer Candidate School. From there, we will talk about his military experiences until he received the nod and entered the ranks of the elite club of Generals. And though he was near the top of the pyramid in rank, he admits that his wife always did, and still does, outrank him! Don't miss the leadership takeaways from the army that has served him both in life and business. You'll also hear his interesting story of what lured him and his wife, to the lake. And that, despite his intentions to take a well-deserved retirement and spend his days fishing, a 4 Star General and a different call to duty, were partly responsible for him starting a brand new business and fulfilling an incredibly important function. This was first for the army, then other military, and then the government and now across many industries. When you hear what his company is capable of doing, you will wonder how it is not in Silicon Valley or another large research center. But the General found a way to make it work right here in Eatonton, GA and after 15 years is one of the most respected firms in his industry. The work they do will blow your mind, and make you proud knowing that the important work they do is done right down the road! General Rodeheaver demonstrates an exemplary life of serving. It's time to meet this remarkable man! Guest - Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver https://www.vizitechusa.com/ Sponsors - Farmers & Merchants Bank; Lake Oconee Bistro; Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance https://www.lakeoconeebistro.com/ https://www.mydowntownagency.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tbprotectincome https://ibankfmb.com/

US Navy Commander Blake Dremann epitomizes the Navy core values. His career has had so many shocking turns that it deserves a full length feature film. Brought up in a faith environment and attending bible school, Blake found the military. He was in the first group of (perceived) women to integrate submarines and then became instrumental in opening up the military to transgender service. He led SPARTA, a non-profit advocacy organization, when President Trump attempted to fire all trans service members via tweet. Through it all, Blake won performance awards, changed perceptions, and fought to be the best version of himself. His journey is an inspiration. This is Blake's Official Navy Biography - COMMANDER BLAKE M. DREMANN SUPPLY CORPS UNITED STATES NAVY Commander Blake Dremann is assigned as the Ammunition Supply Chain Strategy Deputy and the Ordnance Audit Program Manager, NAVSUP Ammunition Logistics Center at Navy Supply Systems Command Headquarters, Mechanicsburg, PA. Commander Dremann is a native of St. Louis, MO and is a 2003 graduate of Ozark Christian College, earning his Bachelor of Biblical Literature. He received his commission through Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, FL in 2006 and after commissioning attended Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA. He earned his Master of Business Administration from Norwich University in 2019. Dremann's operational assignments include: division officer afloat as Food Service Officer, Disbursing Officer and Assistant Supply Officer, USS DENVER (LPD 9); and Supply Officer, USS MAINE (SSBN 741), earning MAINE's second Logistics Excellence Award and recipient of the 2015 Vice Admiral Robert F. Batchelder Award.  His most recent shore assignment was as Readiness Officer, Nuclear Enterprise Support Office at Defense Logistics Agency Headquarters in Fort Belvoir, VA.  Previously he was a Navy Intern, Joint Staff, Logistics Directorate, Washington, DC; where he became the Deputy Branch Chief for Capabilities, was co-lead for the biennial logistics war game and Combatant Command Integrated Priority Lists and Issue Nominations; served an Individual Augmentation tour as Assistant Coordinator, Commander's Emergency Response Program; Combined Joint Task Force - 101, Bagram, Afghanistan; and division officer ashore as Food Service Officer, Billeting Officer, and Sales Officer for Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia. Dremann's personal decorations include two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. He is qualified as a Submarine Warfare Supply officer, a Surface Warfare Supply officer and is a member of the Acquisition Corps.  Commander Dremann has also received the 2018 Department of Defense Pride Military Leadership Award, Modern Military Association of America's “Outstanding Advocate” Honoree for their 25th Anniversary, named a 2019 Out in National Security Next Generation Leader in National Security.

Commander Matthew Kroll, U.S. Coast Guard Matthew currently serves as the Chief of Media Relations and is the primary spokesperson for the U.S. Coast Guard. He has more than 18 years of operational and public relations experience in the military. Originally from Southern California, Matthew received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications Studies from Sonoma State University and a Master of Arts in Communications from San Diego State University. He began his professional career as a radio broadcaster before enlisting in the Coast Guard. Shortly after joining, Matthew was selected for Officer Candidate School, received his “wings of gold”, and flew the MH-65 “Dolphin” helicopter as aircraft commander and instructor pilot. He served as the unit public affairs officer at Air Station San Francisco and Air Station Atlantic city before being selected for the Coast Guard's public affairs advanced education program. Upon completion of his graduate degree, Matthew managed all external communications for the Eleventh Coast Guard District, which includes the states of California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, as well as all rescue and counter-narcotics operations in the international waters of the Pacific Ocean off Central and South America.            Specializing in crisis communications, he led public information teams for multiple national-level incidents including Hurricane Harvey in Texas, Hurricane Lane in Hawaii, and the Conception Dive Boat fire in California. An expert on Coast Guard public affairs history, Matthew researched and published multiple articles documenting the service's notable communicators and overall public relations program.            Matthew holds a Public Information Officer (PIO) qualification for type-I incidents (highest level), is an adjunct communications professor, and has been recognized with multiple awards from the Coast Guard.Commander Kroll's book  - Public Relations in the MilitaryCommander Kroll's LinkedInSponsored by the Social Media Strategies Summit. Check out their website to learn more about their upcoming social media conferences for Public Safety and Government professionals. https://bit.ly/3IrRdDL

Rob Hughes anchors “First News” on KMBC ABC 9/KCWE CW 29 in Kansas City, Missouri, weekdays from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m., and noon. He previously served as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor at KMBC's sister station, KOCO ABC 5 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Rob has worked as an anchor, reporter and producer at KSWT CBS 13 in Yuma, Arizona, KRGV ABC 5 in McAllen Texas, and KJCT ABC 8 and KKCO NBC 11, both in Grand Junction, Colorado.Hughes earned his MBA from Emporia State University. He's a lifetime member of Beta Gamma Sigma, the premier honorary organization for students in business, and recognized worldwide as an indicator of outstanding achievement. Beta Gamma Sigma chapters are limited to schools of business that are accredited by AACSB International. To earn membership, graduate students must be in the top 20% of their class. Hughes also graduated from the University of Southern California with Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science and communication.Hughes was on the Dean's list and a recipient of the Order of Troy, presented to the top 140 out of 4,000 graduating seniors for superior academics, leadership and service.While at USC, Hughes was host of “Political Platforum” and “CU@USC,” which was voted best college television talk show by Spin Magazine. The show reaches nearly 2 million homes in the greater Los Angeles area. For his work, Hughes was voted best male host and best senior host. Some of his most memorable interviews include Star Wars creator George Lucas, actors Gary Sinise and Laurence Fishburne, Grammy Award-winning band Train and former USC quarterback Mark Sanchez.Hughes serves as an infantry officer in the Kansas Army National Guard. He's currently a division operations staff officer, and previously served as a battalion operations staff officer, human resources/administrative officer, company executive officer and rifle platoon leader. Hughes deployed to Ukraine in 2016-2017 as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, European Reassurance Initiative, Joint Multinational Training Group Ukraine, Task Force Tomahawk. Hughes helped train the Ukrainian Army, and worked with the Canadian, Polish, Lithuanian, British and Danish militaries to help build Ukraine's first ever Combat Training Center.His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Certificate of Achievement and a Citation of Commendation from the Oklahoma State Senate and Oklahoma House of Representatives for being 1 of 16 out of a total 64 soldiers to graduate from Officer Candidate School, and for his commitment to education.Hughes emcees multiple charity events annually. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Kansas City Autism Training Center/Astra Day School. Hughes enjoys spending time with his wife Rhea, children Robbie, Rowan, and Rhen. He also enjoys playing guitar, surfing, snowboarding, running and volunteering. National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com #NeverAloneAlwaysForward

It's Springfest weekend on the Heights and BC baseball and softball are coming off midweek walk-offs in Brighton as they both prepare to host the Duke Blue Devils at the Harrington Athletics Village. Catcher and captain Maddy Carpe joins "Turning Two" to discuss Team 40 and her offseason training in Officer Candidate School. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we are honored and delighted to speak with Mark Divine, a former Commander of the SEALs!  Mark is an amazing individual! He is spent 20 years with the Navy SEALs and is a business entrepreneur and a New York Times Bestselling author! In this exciting episode, he discusses how to get to know yourself, knowing how to breathe, how to focus, and how to control your thoughts. We hope you enjoy listening to today's fascinating interview with Mark Divine! Mark Divine Speaker Bio:  Mark Divine is an entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, philanthropist, and one of the world's top leadership and coaching experts.  After a successful 20-year career as a Navy SEAL and SEAL Commander, Mark was hired by the Navy to create a nationwide coaching and leadership program for the SEALs. The bold goal of this program was to give the SEALs the best leadership and mental-management tools in the world – to help them forge unbeatable SEAL teams that achieve mission success in the most stressful, challenging environments on earth.  Divine's leadership and coaching program for the SEALs was so effective that it's now being used outside of the Navy by top CEOs, Fortune 100 companies, USA Olympics, elite universities, major league sports franchises, celebrities, and successful individuals from all over the world.  Mark Divine is the author of 5 best-selling books, including his latest book Staring Down The Wolf: 7 Leadership Commitments That Forge Elite Teams. He hosts a #1-ranked podcast on iTunes (Mark Divine's Unbeatable Mind) and is the founder of 5 successful companies: Unbeatable Mind, SEALFIT, NavySEALs.com, CrossFit, and the award-winning Coronado Brewing Company in California.  Divine believes that any individual, team, or company can unlock 20X performance with the right tools and training. His company, Unbeatable Mind, helps millions of people achieve their full potential in life and business through their free training resources and advanced training programs for leaders, corporate teams, coaching professionals, and high-achieving individuals.  As a philanthropist, Mark Divine founded the Courage Foundation to help our wounded Veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS). Recently Divine and his Courage Foundation team set a world record by completing over 22 million burpees to raise awareness, support, and funding for our Veteran heroes. Mark's story While getting his MBA at New York University Stern School of Business and working toward becoming a CPA, Mark began meditating under the auspices of his martial arts instructor, who was also a Zen practitioner. He discovered he was physically amenable to the meditation practice and started training daily. Six to nine months later, he began experiencing intense flow states and sensing energy moving through his body. He also started coming out of meditations feeling that he was accessing who he truly was and bringing back information. He saw that he had been following someone else's script and understood that he was not supposed to be the CPA, MBA financial guy making a ton of money.  Finding his calling Mark began journaling and asking questions about his true calling before meditating. Then, after meditating, he began sensing the idea that he was meant to be a warrior. Through that, he learned that one's calling in life is not a job or career. It is what you are, and it has an archetypal energy to it. Becoming a warrior The notion of the warrior kept coming back to him. So he accepted it and began to imagine different ways of becoming a warrior. When he saw a poster in a Navy recruitment office about the Navy SEALs, he knew that would be his path to becoming a warrior. He decided to finish his MBA and CPA studies and apply what he had learned with the SEALs. A sense of certainty Mark applied for the SEALs but did not get his hopes up because they only take two civilians a year into Officer Candidate School and Navy SEAL training. After about nine months of visualizing himself as a Navy seal, a sense of certainty washed over him. Two or three days later, the recruiter called to tell him he was accepted. Visualization  The essence of visualization is creating a “future memory” by tapping into who you are and focusing on the purpose of what you are doing and how you will use it to serve others. The more you focus on that future memory, the more you create a magnetic pull, and the more real whatever you visualize becomes. The Mind Gym After being accepted by the Navy, Mark knew he needed to do everything in his power; physically, mentally, and emotionally, to get through the SEAL training. So, inspired by the book Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill, he developed a visualization practice to help him succeed. He later developed that practice even further to become the Mind Gym. The Mind Gym is a mental place you go into to do meditation and visualization. In it, you build an imaginary sacred place where you are held and protected, and your mind is held steady. You can invite imaginary advisors and your future self to join you and share information in your Mind Gym.  SEALFIT After getting married, Mark transitioned into the reserve SEAL teams and launched SEALFIT to teach the skills he had learned to other SEALs, operatives, business professionals, and corporate teams. The Big Four Mark refers to the skills he developed, refined, and taught as the Big Four. When practiced for 20 minutes daily, those skills help people reconstruct their lives and achieve goals they previously believed were insurmountable.  They are: Breath Control (Box breathing) Mental control (With positive thoughts and internal dialogue) Imagery (Imagining or visualizing the desired outcome) Focusing wholly on the task at hand and breaking it down into micro-goals The SEALFIT Academy Mark created a 30-day in-house training program called the SEALFIT Academy to teach his Big Four skills to the “Western Warriors” who wanted to learn them. Out of that, he developed another three complete training programs: SEAL FIT, Kokoro Yoga, and Unbeatable Mind. Those programs are so effective that 90% of the Navy SEAL candidates who complete them get through the Navy SEAL training!  Mark's Six Pillars To overcome the training programs of consumerism, corporatism, and social media, Mark teaches his trainees to notice where they get conditioned and how to deconstruct that conditioning. To do that, they must create healthy habits around nutrition, sleep, exercise, time in nature, stress management, and community practices. He calls these the Six Pillars.  Mental toughness People develop mental toughness when they learn how to control their thoughts and emotions. That can be achieved by practicing mindfulness and meditation. The future To overcome unhealthy societal conditioning and create a new and non-violent culture, we need to take back control of our lives. Mark recommends doing that positively. So, we should not fight back against the government or corporate interests. Rather, we should ignore all the negativity and violence, develop and cultivate a positive mindset, and have a positive view of the world and the future.  The Courage Foundation Mark created the Courage Foundation about five or six years ago to raise awareness about the high suicide rate among veterans, to support veteran organizations, and to help veterans with PTSD. Connect with Eric On LinkedIn On Facebook On Instagram On Website Connect with Mark Divine On his website  SEALFIT Training    On LinkedIn  The Courage Foundation   Books mentioned: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Jim McDonough spent 26 years in the United States Army and retired as a Colonel. Jim was originally commissioned as an Air Defense Artillery Officer upon graduation from Officer Candidate School, Class 1-82 on March 11th, 1982. He had combat deployments in both the Gulf War and the invasion in Iraq. In Jim's post military career, he was the Chief Executive Officer of the Veteran's Outreach Center and he is currently the CEO of The Headstrong Project, one of the most notable veteran organizations around. theheadstrongproject.org Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Jim McDonough

Michael Albright grew up in Colorado and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. In 2000, at the age of 23, Michael was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and shortly afterward joined the U.S. Navy, earning his Commission as a Supply Corps Officer after completing Officer Candidate School in Florida. He attended several Training Commands before serving tours in California and Hawaii, leaving active duty military service in 2006 to attend graduate school at Brigham Young University. Michael has served in several elders quorum presidencies, as a Primary, youth, and Sunday School teacher, a membership clerk, a ward emergency preparedness & employment specialist, and is now an assistant executive secretary for youth. He and his wife Oriah have three boys and their family resides in Texas. Highlights 02:30 Michael went to the May 2022 men's retreat, Warrior Heart and he shares his story and how he ended up there. 05:00 Michael explains why he thinks that going to a third party retreat, like Warrior Heart, is important apart from the normal week to week elders quorum meetings. 07:30 Michael was called as an assistant executive secretary, specifically for the youth. The ward wanted to do something to focus more on the youth. Michael shares what he does in his calling. 10:45 The day to day focus and main priorities of Michael's calling. He keeps track of what activities are going on and informs everyone through email He sends out reminders for appointments Follow up with people for interviews Keeps track of youth that need temple recommends that will expire soon Gets interviews for new youth in the ward so that the bishop can get to know them 13:30 There are about 100 youth members in Michael's ward. Having a youth executive secretary helps the bishop and the other executive secretary so that no one slips through the cracks. 13:50 Michael is basically the part of the bishop's brain that focuses completely on the youth. 15:05 The dynamic of setting up appointments with the youth. 16:20 Michael considers himself a gate keeper of the bishop's time. He is there to help the bishop not get overloaded. 17:00 Michael explains the dynamic with the other executive secretary and how they work together and coordinate all the appointments. 21:00 Michael shares his principles of leadership. Principle one - Ownership and stewardship 23:40 Principle two - Communication 25:30 Principle three - Being respectable and adaptable as you are working with people 31:30 Michael's focus is creating better relationships with the youth. He isn't great with technology and with the platforms that the youth are on but he works to connect with them in their interactions. 33:00 God loves us no matter what. What does change is our ability to feel His love because of the choices that we make. This is the message that Michael loves to share with the youth that he works with. 35:00 How being a leader has helped Michael become a better follower of Jesus Christ. Links Is Elders Quorum Working? Warrior Heart Bootcamp Read the TRANSCRIPT of this podcast Listen on YouTube Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library The Leading Saints Podcast gets over 300,000 listens each month and has nearly 10 million total downloads as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help latter-day saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, J. Devn Cornish, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, DeAnna Murphy, Michael Goodman, Richard Ostler, Ganel-Lyn Condie,

Michael Albright grew up in Colorado and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wyoming. In 2000, at the age of 23, Michael was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and shortly afterward joined the U.S. Navy, earning his Commission as a Supply Corps Officer after completing Officer Candidate School in Florida. He attended several Training Commands before serving tours in California and Hawaii, leaving active duty military service in 2006 to attend graduate school at Brigham Young University. Michael has served in several elders quorum presidencies, as a Primary, youth, and Sunday School teacher, a membership clerk, a ward emergency preparedness & employment specialist, and is now an assistant executive secretary for youth. He and his wife Oriah have three boys and their family resides in Texas. Highlights 02:30 Michael went to the May 2022 men's retreat, Warrior Heart and he shares his story and how he ended up there. 05:00 Michael explains why he thinks that going to a third party retreat, like Warrior Heart, is important apart from the normal week to week elders quorum meetings. 07:30 Michael was called as an assistant executive secretary, specifically for the youth. The ward wanted to do something to focus more on the youth. Michael shares what he does in his calling. 10:45 The day to day focus and main priorities of Michael's calling. He keeps track of what activities are going on and informs everyone through email He sends out reminders for appointments Follow up with people for interviews Keeps track of youth that need temple recommends that will expire soon Gets interviews for new youth in the ward so that the bishop can get to know them 13:30 There are about 100 youth members in Michael's ward. Having a youth executive secretary helps the bishop and the other executive secretary so that no one slips through the cracks. 13:50 Michael is basically the part of the bishop's brain that focuses completely on the youth. 15:05 The dynamic of setting up appointments with the youth. 16:20 Michael considers himself a gate keeper of the bishop's time. He is there to help the bishop not get overloaded. 17:00 Michael explains the dynamic with the other executive secretary and how they work together and coordinate all the appointments. 21:00 Michael shares his principles of leadership. Principle one - Ownership and stewardship 23:40 Principle two - Communication 25:30 Principle three - Being respectable and adaptable as you are working with people 31:30 Michael's focus is creating better relationships with the youth. He isn't great with technology and with the platforms that the youth are on but he works to connect with them in their interactions. 33:00 God loves us no matter what. What does change is our ability to feel His love because of the choices that we make. This is the message that Michael loves to share with the youth that he works with. 35:00 How being a leader has helped Michael become a better follower of Jesus Christ. Links Is Elders Quorum Working? Warrior Heart Bootcamp TRANSCRIPT coming soon Listen on YouTube Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library The Leading Saints Podcast gets over 300,000 listens each month and has nearly 10 million total downloads as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help latter-day saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, J. Devn Cornish, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, DeAnna Murphy, Michael Goodman, Richard Ostler, Ganel-Lyn Condie,

I have a tremendous amount of respect for Major Brian Hubert. He leads by example, utilizing the principles of servant leadership. Brian and I met over a decade ago at Officer Candidate School. Since then, he's served deployments in Yemen and Afghanistan's Helmand Province. Between deployments, he was the Officer in Charge and Executive Officer for several advanced infantry courses at the School of Infantry - West. And currently, Brain is in recruiting, serving as the Commanding Officer of eleven substations and two officer selection teams in Cleveland, Ohio. In this episode, we discuss his life as a Marine, and how he's inspiring young people to join the cause.  Brian on Instagram 

Scott spoke with retired U.S. Army Captain John Vaughn about the Military's recent recruitment troubles. Vaughn gives an insider's take on why interest in joining up has been dropping and highlights some relevant statistics. He reflects on his own experience enrolling at West Point before deploying to Kuwait, Afghanistan and Poland.  Discussed on the show: “Evacuation Eyewitness: What I Saw in Kabul” (Libertarian Institute) “A Veteran Explains Why People Aren't Joining the Military” (Libertarian Institute) “Every branch of the military is struggling to make its 2022 recruiting goals, officials say” (NBC News) John Vaughn is a retired United States Army Captain. He graduated from West Point in 2013 and commissioned as an Infantry officer before becoming an Information Technology Systems Engineer for the U.S. Army. He has served as a Platoon Leader at Fort Bliss, TX, as a Company Commander at Fort Benning, GA, and as an instructor at the Army's Officer Candidate School. He has deployed to Kuwait, Afghanistan and Poland and has been published in the Army's Signal Magazine. This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: The War State and Why The Vietnam War?, by Mike Swanson; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom; ExpandDesigns.com/Scott; EasyShip; Free Range Feeder; Thc Hemp Spot; Green Mill Supercritical; Bug-A-Salt and Listen and Think Audio. Shop Libertarian Institute merch or donate to the show through Patreon, PayPal or Bitcoin: 1DZBZNJrxUhQhEzgDh7k8JXHXRjYu5tZiG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Winslow served in the US Marine Corps for 21 years. Enlisting in the late 1980s, Joe’s career took him to Germany as the Berlin Wall fell, to reserve status and then back to active duty and Officer Candidate School through multiple deployments, to the last years where he was Combat Historian in Iraq for […]