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Gun Lawyer
Episode 274-State Police RPO Cover-Up

Gun Lawyer

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2026 34:10


Episode 274- State Police RPO Cover-Up  Also Available OnSearchable Podcast Transcript Gun Lawyer — Episode Transcript Gun Lawyer Transcript – Episode 274 SPEAKERS Teddy Nappen, Evan Nappen, Speaker 2 Evan Nappen 00:17 I’m Evan Nappen. Teddy Nappen 00:19 and I’m Teddy Nappen. Evan Nappen 00:21 And welcome to Gun Lawyer. So, our good friend, John Petrolino, who writes about many, many important topics, particularly as well concerning New Jersey, has an article that was in Bearing Arms. And I want to talk about what he’s raised here. The article’s title is “New Jersey State Police Tight Lipped Over Retired Police Permits”. (https://bearingarms.com/john-petrolino/2026/01/21/new-jersey-statepolice-tight-lipped-over-retired-police-permits-n1231288) So, what John has done is he’s used the New Jersey form of OPRA (Open Public Records Act), the Freedom of Information Act, asking the authorities in New Jersey for the number of permits issued to retired police officers. Evan Nappen 01:15 You may recall the then Attorney General Platkin did put up that dashboard and released the data of public statistics regarding carry permits, the number of permits issued. There’s been over 92,000 approved applications for carry permits in New Jersey, and of those approvals, 64,000 are non-expired permits. Now it’s interesting that the State puts out that data, but they don’t put out the data as to the RPO permits. The Retired Police Officer permits, and we want to find out how many folks carry that are not law enforcement, right? That are civilian. And let’s face it, Retired Police Officers are still civilians, even though they were formerly law enforcement. Originally carry was outside of being law enforcement and outside of New Jersey’s insane carry permit system back then, where you had to show “justifiable need”, which, as you may recall, meant showing of urgent necessity. This meant showing that a gun was necessary for you to defend yourself from death or serious bodily injury and that carrying a handgun was the only means that could do it. I mean, it was a standard that was so extreme that basically, if you’ve been shot and killed, you then qualified for a New Jersey carry permit. Evan Nappen 03:08 Now that went away thanks to the Bruen decision, and New Jersey jumped from less than 600 carry permits to now 64,000 valid permits and 92,000 valid, approved permits. But it does not include the RPOs. Now, RPOs had the ability to carry before Bruen, and during that time period when regular old civilians who weren’t retired law enforcement could not defend themselves with a firearm and carry in that manner, right? They were deemed to have to be victims instead of defenders. But now, for some reason, the State Police and such will not release the number of RPO permits. We’re not asking for names. John went forward here, and he didn’t ask for names. He didn’t ask for anything. He just wants to know how many? How many of the RPO permits are out there as well. This should be looked at in the aggregate with all the other carry permits that are out there, and yet that doesn’t happen. Page of 1 8 Evan Nappen 04:25 In December of 2025, John sent a request for the number of RPO permits, and it was denied. And the request was denied weirdly and strangely for reasons that just don’t make any sense. And I’m going to tell you. It makes you wonder, why is there a cover up? The reason they denied it, the reason the State Police have put in writing for the denial. Well, get a load of this. “Improper and Overbroad” was the main reason. Can you believe that the information is supposedly improper and overbroad? Why would wanting to know a statistical fact such as the number of RBO permits be considered overbroad? And why would it be considered in any way improper? It is strictly information. It is based on a record. It absolutely should be released. Evan Nappen 05:52 How come they are releasing the numbers for civilian carry permits, right? The 92,000. How come that’s not “improper and overbroad”? No, the Attorney General does it. Go ahead. Why? Tell me. Why do you think? Teddy Nappen 06:10 So, going back to because John also, if I recall, broke the story about denials where, what was it? Blacks were five times more likely to be denied to their carry. Evan Nappen 06:22 Yes, institutionalized racism. That exists in New Jersey. Teddy Nappen 06:31 So, add into the fact that you have the, well, here’s the trick. The Left have always been anti-police. That is a fact. They were the ones that wanted to defund the police. They were the ones for that. So, now we have the first factor of showing the absolute racism of the gun laws. But also the fact that they were supporting the only carry which, by the way, how much you want to bet they were all for the RPOs under all the Democrat Governors who allowed those carries to come into play. How much of that look, if it shows that there’s this massive amount of RPOs being issued. And because the Left are Marxists who absolutely hate police and hate law and order, this would make them look like absolute elitists and hypocrites. Evan Nappen 07:19 So, the fear is that, arguably, in the defund the police mentality, that if retired police are being armed, they don’t want any police armed, even if they’re retired, because of the perceived threat that they put out there that law enforcement creates toward minorities. In their view, not in my view. Not in my view. It’s the opposite. I mean, the fact is, they’re out there as protectors, defenders of the good people of our State. Every retired officer is somebody who’s not only armed, but also is experienced in armed defense, having served as a law enforcement officer. They’re a resource. They’re a positive benefit to our society. Yet, they’re probably scared of the politics. I mean, why else? What? There’s nothing about it that makes it “improper”. And it sure isn’t “overbroad”. It would be overbroad, maybe, if you want to know the name and address and Dox every carry RPO that’s out there. That’s not being requested. We just want the damn number. How many RPO carry permits? Teddy Nappen 08:41 Page of 2 8 It honestly reminds me, Dad, of that poster you had hung up. It was the joke where it shows if the Left could rewrite the Second Amendment. And I think, and I remember, you remember that. They crossed out, remember, they crossed out militia. And it says, like, military and police, employed police only. We’re kind of that logic where like, well, they’re not in the service, so why should they be armed? Not because there’s massive doxing websites, and that’s why ICE has to have their mask on for that exact reason. But. Evan Nappen 09:17 Exactly. Well, the fight is still ongoing and the question is raised. Why not just give us the number so we all know? And I would like to see a huge number of RPOs. I hope there’s lots of them out there. The more trained law-abiding folks that have firearms, the safer we are. And retired police are perfect in that regard. That’s exactly what we want to see. So, whatever their basis is, it just creates more of a conspiracy, and it just politicizes it so unnecessarily. It’s ridiculous. Release the number. Let us know. Let’s join in showing how many armed folks are out there. Maybe that’s another reason. They’re afraid that if that number, you know is even more, now, more and more people are carrying and suddenly the BITS argument they love to make right? Blood In The Streets. BITS. There’ll be blood in the streets with civilian carry, you know. No, it didn’t happen. And it’ll be the Wild West. It’s not the Wild West. And look at how many folks have carries when you combine the numbers. Maybe they’re afraid of that political aspect. But, you know, we have a right to know these numbers. It’s not a secret. It’s not improper. It’s not overbroad. Just let us know, and we deal with the facts. Evan Nappen 10:47 I also want to bring a couple very interesting things out that I’ve recently learned about. An important one here is the old “Bang or Bong – You can’t have both”. Well, shortly, at least a greater degree, you may be able to have both because President Trump, through his administration, folks, keep that in mind. Through the Trump administration, they have proposed, through ATF, revision of their regulation concerning the interpretation of what a “user of drugs” as a disqualifier, what it means. You know, for almost 30 years, ATF has said they treat even a single incident, a single past admission of marijuana use, or a failed drug test, or one misdemeanor marijuana conviction as evidence of a person being an unlawful user. They have now put forward an administrative reg that when it becomes finalized, which should be happening within the next few months, it will make it so that those things no longer will be deeming a person “an unlawful user”. And this should be of great help. Evan Nappen 12:25 From an article in AmmoLand, written by Dean Weingarten, which is entitled “ATF Finally Admits: One-time Drug Use Isn’t Grounds to Strip Gun Rights.” (https://www.ammoland.com/2026/01/atf-finally-admitsone-time-drug-use-isnt-grounds-to-strip-gun-rights/) It makes it really interesting here regarding that. In 2025, NICS denied 9,163 firearm transfers under the “unlawful user” category, okay? So, in other words, denials, denials of over 9,000 transfers, more than half of those denials, more than half, were single-incident drug inferences. Well, under this rule, those will no longer be denials. That’s over what? Four thousand people that will not be denied their gun rights, just in that one year, no less. Of people being denied over this nonsense. And furthermore, in this article, ATF admitted that 8,893 cases, it declined to investigate, prosecute, or retrieve firearms because of a single-drug incident. So, they’re denying individuals and not prosecuting. Yet, they’re using it as a base for denial. So, finally, we’re getting a reg of common sense that clears it up. Evan Nappen 14:05 Page of 3 8 And it even, to me, appears to go further. Now this may take a little bit more analysis, but in my reading of the reg, and I’m going to have to see how it pans out, it also talks about those that use drugs that are lawfully prescribed. That becomes an exemption. I’m going to be looking further into whether this reg also directly impacts individuals with a medical marijuana card. Because if it’s prescribed and it’s legal in the state and it’s by a lawful prescription, then maybe that, too, gets covered by this new regulation. It remains to be seen, but it sure seems like it. So, this is good. It progress in the right direction of helping protect our gun rights. And, of course, it’s happening under the Trump administration. It didn’t, this didn’t happen under, you know, the senile sock puppets for years. This is Trump, and yet it’s in the area of marijuana. I mean, oddly, it’s going to essentially remove what got Hunter Biden in trouble, you know. Now, of course, I don’t think he had a single individual use, but still. It’s that disqualifier that’s being addressed by the Trump administration. Evan Nappen 15:40 I also want to point out something that caught my attention, and I think it is just great when something illustrates the absurdity of the gun laws. As you know, we’re fighting over with the big, beautiful lawsuit with NFA over suppressors. Of course, there’s no more $200 tax, which is nice, and they have made it much more efficient online to be able to get federally registered through the National Firearm Act, when acquiring suppressors. And I appreciate the progress, but we all know that there shouldn’t be any NFA at all. It shouldn’t exist. There should be no registration of suppressors or silencers. And it’s so stupid the way silencers are regulated. And I just love this. Apparently, this fellow here, regarding the National Association for Gun Rights, registered a potato as a suppressor. That’s right, a potato. (https:// www.facebook.com/share/v/1Aadb9chUS/) It’s the classic potato silencer that they used to be, mythologically, I guess, accredited to the IRA even. A potato on the end of a gun will act as a suppressor, and to a certain degree, it does. So, he registered a potato, an actual potato, as a suppressor, and then proceeded to utilize it. The only problem with the potato silencer is it’s good for about one shot, and then you end up with a lot of mashed potatoes after you use it. But there you go. They did, in fact, register the potato as a silencer. Teddy Nappen 17:31 There’s a slang term for it, too it’s called a Paddy can. Evan Nappen 17:35 There you go. A Paddy can. Well, he registered a Paddy can. And you know, ATF, also, in the past, registered a shoelace as a machine gun, because you could wrap it around the trigger and the bolt. Then you could do a quasi bump fire deal with it. So, there is a bona fide, if you go on the internet, see a bona fide ATF registered shoelace as a machine gun. We have potatoes as silencers, and I think it illustrates just how stupid the NFA is. Evan Nappen 18:07 Hey, let me tell you about our friends at WeShoot. WeShoot, as you know, is a range where Teddy and I both shoot, and they have been lately featuring some biographies of their instructors. You see, WeShoot has fantastic instructors, and one of their instructors that they’ve taken a focus on is Todd Friedman. Now, their instructors are fantastic and Lieutenant Todd (Retired) is an elite tactical instructor at WeShoot. He has over 25 years experience with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. And he didn’t just serve there. He commanded. He was Special Operations Group, Range Master, PTC Certified Range Instructor. His training and background is really something. He’s completed all the advanced coursework and tactical shot sub gun, tactical rifle, tactical narcotics operations. He is an amazing guy, Page of 4 8 and this is just one of the many fantastic instructors at WeShoot. WeShoot is the place to go. Todd, by the way, also served as a Sergeant First Class in the New Jersey National Guard and supporting the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division. So, this is the kind of guy you want training you, you know, and we shoot has these fantastic trainers. You can take advantage of this by belonging to WeShoot. You can take these courses and really, really learn and hone your skills. You need to check out WeShoot at weshootusa.com, weshootusa.com. It’s a beautiful range right there in Lakewood, conveniently located easy to get to, right off the Parkway, right there in Central Jersey. You have this fantastic resource of a range. So, make sure you check out WeShoot. Evan Nappen 20:24 And of course, our friends at the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs have been very busy. They’ve been battling in the courts. We should see some more progress there, and I’ll be reporting on that. They’ve been keeping an eye on what’s going on in Trenton and letting us know about these fights we’re fighting. We’ve made an impact. We’ve made an impact. But man, it is a tough slog. And without the Association, we would be even worse. So, make sure that you join the ANJRPC.org, the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol clubs. anjrpc.org. They are the premier gun rights group in New Jersey. You need to be a member. You’ll get the email alerts, and you’ll stay on top of what is going on in the crazy state of New Jersey, where the fun just never ends when it comes to oppression of our rights and the fight for our liberties. Evan Nappen 21:22 And by the way, this is where I shamelessly promote my book New Jersey Gun Law, which is the Bible of New Jersey gun law. You’ve got to get a copy. Go to EvanNappen.com. It’s over 500 pages, 120 topics, all question and answer. It is the book used by everybody, and the only book that describes and explains the complex matrix of insanity called New Jersey gun law. Get your copy today. Go to EvanNappen.com. When you get it, scan the front cover. Make sure you get on my private subscriber base, where you can immediately access the archives for any updates. A new update will be coming out very shortly, the 2026 Comprehensive Update of these new laws that Murphy gave us as his farewell present. I’ll be talking about those and explaining those soon. Get your copy today and join in with the subscriber base, which is free, which is free, by the way. So, that your book stays current, and you’ll know what’s going on and be able to keep yourself from becoming a GOFU. Evan Nappen 22:35 Teddy, what do you have for us today? Teddy Nappen 22:38 Well, as you know, Press Checks are always free. And I want to remind everyone that the Democrats and the Left are, in fact, the real racists. No matter. They do not care what bounds they have to do. They don’t care about what lines they have to cross. They hate you, and they want to take away your rights. You know. Evan Nappen 23:06 Well, Teddy, historically, historically the KKK were Southern Democrats. That was a KKK. The Democrats. Teddy Nappen 23:15 Yep, and apparently. Page of 5 8 Evan Nappen 23:16 Well, it hasn’t changed, apparently. Go ahead. Teddy Nappen 23:19 Well, even better, they’re getting back to their roots. We had previously discussed how the they tried to do that whole argument against Bruen and even citing to like, you know, all the racist laws that would deny blacks their rights to carry and ability to possess firearms. Well, sure enough, from The Daily Caller by Harold Hutchinson. Justice Jackson defends Jim Crow laws during Second Amendment case hearing. (https://dailycaller.com/2026/01/20/ketanji-brown-jackson-jim-crow-law-during-2a-case-argument/) If you have that on your bingo card today, you win. So. Evan Nappen 23:59 Your bingo card is Judge Jackson defends Jim Crow racist Black Codes. Teddy Nappen 24:05 Black Code. Specifically Black Codes. Yes, yes. So, this is about the Hawaii challenge. Remember, they’re trying to attack Bruen. And this is our opportunity to really strengthen and end that insanity. Evan Nappen 24:20 Your talking about the Wolford case. Teddy Nappen 24:20 Correct. Evan Nappen 24:22 About sensitive places. Which is very important. That can have great impact on New Jersey, too. Teddy Nappen 24:28 Oh, we’re all very too familiar about the various sensitive places in New Jersey. But this was the part that caught me. During the forum, where the justices are allowed to ask questions and probe the issues of the facts of the case of the law. So, Justice Jackson then turned and decided to go on and say. I just laugh every time I read it. So, I guess I really don’t understand your response to Justice Gorsuch on the Black Codes. I mean, I thought the Black Code, this is Jackson, were being offered under the Bruen test to determine the Constitutionality of this regulation, and that, because we have a test, and that asks us to look at the history and tradition, the fact that the Black Codes were at some point determined themselves unconstitutional, it doesn’t seem to me to be relevant to the assessment that Bruen is asking us for anyway. So, can you say more about that? So to. Evan Nappen 25:35 Do you believe this person is a justice? Teddy Nappen 25:40 Well, I can, I can believe it, because Biden said it himself. He was going to appoint a black woman and regardless of that. So, just take a step back though. Let’s unpack that line right there. It’s not relevant to the fact the laws were found unconstitutional, not relevant to the fact of the constitutionality of the Second Amendment and the and the fact that you are citing, and this is the war on Bruen they are Page of 6 8 making, where they try to say history, text and tradition. Where does history begin? Well, to the Left, apparently, the history begins in the 1860s where you have the various Black Codes and racist gun laws, but you know, to us with the, you know, traditionalists and go and have a little bit further knowledge of history, go back to the very foundation of our country and when the Second Amendment was born. And not only that, this shows you the degree that they hate us and hate guns and are willing to pursue a second amendment oppression agenda, even to the degree that they will utilize unconstitutional purely racist laws of the past to justify prohibitions now that are themselves we can show utilizing institutionalized racism in their enforcement, no less. I mean, they don’t care, as long as they can get the guns and take away the rights. So what if they have to be on the side of racism? That’s fine with them there. Teddy Nappen 27:28 Well, and here’s the reason why I pulled from The Trace where, you know, they absolutely loathe Bruen. This is why they hate it, and this is why they don’t care where length they have to go they cite in. This is from The Trace. (https://www.thetrace.org/projects/bruen-tracker-supreme-court-gun-laws/) 1100 plus. The number of people with felony convictions have used Bruen to challenge the ban on the possession of guns. So, in other words, people that were lawful possession and have unconstitutional laws currently putting them in jail? Oh, now there’s a hammer that is Bruen that can actually help them defend themselves and not be prosecuted. Amazing. Well. And it goes back to race, because blacks are six to one felons to whites, and what is the left pushing? Oh, the disqualifier of a felon, you are sure, because it gets a racial discrimination. It’s six to one again, always pushing the one side of their mouth, claiming to fight for civil rights. Teddy Nappen 28:37 And yet, when it really comes down to the truest of civil rights, they immediately sell it out to pursue a second amendment oppression agenda, yeah, and also the fact they highlight, they highlight this rate of 48% of Republican appointed judges have struck down various gun laws under Bruen, as opposed to the 13 Democrat appointees. So there is political bias for that, you where they’re actually applying the law versus them ignoring the Constitution. But you know, that’s a separate but this is something I want to highlight to everyone. The fact is, if the Left ever take power back, and James Carville has said this, they will pack the court. He said, we’re going to pack the court. We’re going to make a gonna make Puerto Rico a state like everything they can to maintain power. Teddy Nappen 29:30 What are they going to do when they pack the court? Go ahead and read the dissenting of Bruen. I pulled the line right here from buyers, which all of them agree with buyers on this. They refuse, when considering the SEC refuse to consider government interests and just and the challenge to gun regulations regarding the compelling interest to be, in our view, when the court interprets the Second Amendment, it is constitutionally proper and in often necessary. Necessary to consider the serious danger and consequences of gun violence that lead states to regulate when you when they consider gun laws, they have to factor in the gun violence. You know, the propaganda they promote, race manufacturers on a daily basis, by the way, right? That’s what they have to consider when exercising. So whenever you want to exercise the First Amendment, always consider the hate speech. This is why Reagan said, you know, freedom is only what one generation away from being lost. You know, paraphrasing, but that’s what it means. If they get power, they get total power. We’re in for it, so be vigilant, folks. Make sure you vote. Make sure you do your part in our republic, in defending our rights. Page of 7 8 Evan Nappen 30:55 Hey, let me tell you about this week’s GOFU, which is the Gun Owner Fuck Up. We always like to talk about GOFUs, because these are expensive lessons, real cases, real individuals have learned. And I don’t want you, my listeners, to have to repeat these mistakes. And this one is, this comes up at any number of cases, even just this week. And here’s the bottom line on this GOFU, folks. Know what you have. Let me tell you what I mean by that. I get cases all the time where people end up with their property seized and their house gets searched. Now you may say, well, no one has searched my house. Yeah, except it’s so easy in New Jersey to have that happen. All it takes is just some allegation by any party. You don’t even get a chance to say anything till afterwards. After they do the search that red flags you, or puts an unjustified restraining order on you, or just your house has a fire, and the firemen come in there. We’ve seen this happen so many times, so many ways, and something gets discovered that you didn’t even remember that you had. Evan Nappen 32:17 Because remember, New Jersey has turned things into crimes where there was no grandfathering. If you had old magazines that held over 10 rounds, in other words, you could even if you complied with Florio way back in the day and made sure your mags only held 15. Well, if you’ve got 15 round Florio mags, you’ve got felony charges on your hands. Even though they were made compliant way back. Because now it’s 10. That’s just one example. If you have firearm that became non-compliant under New Jersey law and didn’t realize it, there’s just a multitude of things that New Jersey can screw you over with. Please make sure you know what you have and not have anything that you shouldn’t. Because it’s so easy to have boxes of accessories, boxes and you know, lo and behold, what’s in it? An old bump stock or an old large capacity magazine or a trigger crank, or any of the things that were legal, but then New Jersey unilaterally decided it is intrinsically evil and must be turned into felonies for possession. So, folks, know what you have. Evan Nappen 33:37 This is Evan Nappen and Teddy Nappen reminding you that gun laws don’t protect honest citizens from criminals. They protect criminals from honest citizens. Speaker 2 33:48 Gun Lawyer is a CounterThink Media production. The music used in this broadcast was managed by Cosmo Music, New York, New York. Reach us by emailing Evan@gun.lawyer. The information and opinions in this broadcast do not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state. Page of 8 8 Downloadable PDF TranscriptGun Lawyer S5 E274_Transcript About The HostEvan Nappen, Esq.Known as “America's Gun Lawyer,” Evan Nappen is above all a tireless defender of justice. Author of eight bestselling books and countless articles on firearms, knives, and weapons history and the law, a certified Firearms Instructor, and avid weapons collector and historian with a vast collection that spans almost five decades — it's no wonder he's become the trusted, go-to expert for local, industry and national media outlets. Regularly called on by radio, television and online news media for his commentary and expertise on breaking news Evan has appeared countless shows including Fox News – Judge Jeanine, CNN – Lou Dobbs, Court TV, Real Talk on WOR, It's Your Call with Lyn Doyle, Tom Gresham's Gun Talk, and Cam & Company/NRA News. As a creative arts consultant, he also lends his weapons law and historical expertise to an elite, discerning cadre of movie and television producers and directors, and novelists. He also provides expert testimony and consultations for defense attorneys across America. Email Evan Your Comments and Questions  talkback@gun.lawyer Join Evan's InnerCircleHere's your chance to join an elite group of the Savviest gun and knife owners in America.  Membership is totally FREE and Strictly CONFIDENTIAL.  Just enter your email to start receiving insider news, tips, and other valuable membership benefits.   Email (required) *First Name *Select list(s) to subscribe toInnerCircle Membership Yes, I would like to receive emails from Gun Lawyer Podcast. (You can unsubscribe anytime)Constant Contact Use. Please leave this field blank.var ajaxurl = "https://gun.lawyer/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php";

Vermont Viewpoint
November 24th, 2025 - Brad Ferland with Wreaths Across America, Sergeant First Class Niels Hulsman, and Senator Thomas Chittenden

Vermont Viewpoint

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 93:25


This episode of Vermont Viewpoint was published 11/24/25.Brad Ferland talks with Ginny Sweetzer with Wreaths Across America, a national 501(c)(3) whose mission is to have every veteran's grave covered with a wreath, still has 2,718 wreaths that need to be sponsored in Vermont Wreaths Across America, a national 501(c)(3) whose mission is to have every veteran's grave covered with a wreath, still has 2,718 wreaths that need to be sponsored in Vermont.This includes 239 at the Vermont Veterans' Home Cemetery in Bennington. On Dec. 13, at noon, Wreaths Across America will be at the Vermont Veterans'' Home Cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud. Then, Sergeant First Class Niels Huisman has served with the 40th Army Band since 2004. His duties have included narrator and announcer for the concert band, leader and bass player for the Department of Jazz Septet, Drum Major for the marching band, and performer on bass and percussion with multiple other small ensembles. Finally, Thomas Ira Chittenden grew up in South Burlington, Vermont. Thomas has a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Vermont and his Vermont family lineage traces back nine generations to Bethuel Chittenden, the brother of Vermont's first governor Thomas Chittenden.

Mission Brief: The Official Podcast of the Israel Defense Forces
Faces of War: A Reservist's Journey Two Years Later

Mission Brief: The Official Podcast of the Israel Defense Forces

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 28:52


In this episode of the 'Mission Brief' podcast, the host interviews Sergeant First Class in the Reserve A, who shares his harrowing and inspiring experiences from October 7, 2023. A recounts his journey from Baltimore to his deep connection with Israel, joining the Paratroopers in 2011, and his surprising reassignment to a search and rescue unit. He describes the mental challenges of preparing for and executing missions to retrieve fallen soldiers from behind enemy lines, including the fateful day of October 7th, when he was called for duty amidst the Hamas attacks. Throughout the episode, A emphasizes the importance of resilience, the power of positivity, and the dedication required to serve and protect. His testimony provides a poignant reminder of the realities of war and the unyielding spirit of those who serve.

Sasquatch Chronicles
SC EP:1174 The Vagrant

Sasquatch Chronicles

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2025 77:39


Chad writes "Back in 1992, I was stationed at Ft. Lewis in the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). We were running a force-on-force training operation. I don't recall the exact location—maybe an hour's drive from Lewis. Our task was to defend a simulated Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) site consisting of a trailer and container meant to resemble a rocket launcher. We had two Special Forces Operational Detachment Alphas (ODAs) involved, roughly 20 guys total, plus a few support personnel. The site was backed up against the “no play zone,” so any attacking team could only approach from the west. It was fortified: two M-60 machine gun nests, a perimeter of seasoned operators, M-16s for each of us, a couple of HF radios—basic gear for a simulated “enemy” approach. No high-speed tech, no grenade simulators that I can recall. The terrain was layered: a track in front of the site, then woods, then a clean trail parallel to a ridge 150 meters to the west. Beyond that, a large field of tall grass. Ferns covered the ridge slope—dense and knee-to-hip high. Our mission was to intercept and resist any attempt to assault the SAM site, likely between dusk and sunrise. We ran rotating two-man patrols along the trail, each covering a three-hour shift. The night of the encounter, I was paired with a Sergeant First Class—an 18D medic whom I'll call “Guy.” He'd been in group for years. I was 22 at the time, on of the youngest on site. Moonlight was strong—brilliant enough to allow stealth movement. We paced slowly, stopping every few meters to kneel and scan. After an hour, we paused under a shadowed area. Guy lit a cigarette with quiet precision—no glow exposed. I asked how he did that. He smirked and said, “Sniper check.” Then it happened. A deafening scream rang out from the ridge. At first, I thought it was an animal. But then came a bizarre shift: halfway through, it took on a human tone. Eight to ten seconds of sustained vocalization that morphed into a frantic, incoherent babble… and finally, a coyote-like cackle or laughing sound. The volume never dropped. We scanned the ridge. I spotted a silhouette—a massive figure, turning swaying side to side near a tree at the top of the ridge. It looked human. I thought, “Who in group is that size?” We went guns up. The figure turned north and walked away. We pursued him, assuming a diversion tactic to draw us away from the site. But despite jogging, we couldn't close the gap. He moved quickly—strangely so. This went on for nearly a kilometer and a half. The forest thickened. The ridge narrowed – bottle necked. And then the figure veered east—straight toward us—charging downhill like a bipedal rhino through underbrush. Not sticks snapping… limbs breaking. I think at this moment, I realized It wasn't human and started to categorize it. We veered northwest off the trail to intercept. It turned north, the woods were dark – perfect place for a kill zone, an ambush, I could still track its movement. Then… silence. It stopped moving. Total quiet. We crept forward—as noted this was textbook ambush territory. But nothing came. The smell did. It hit in layers. First: wet dog tangled with decay. Then: putrid infection, feces, rot. It overwhelmed me. As the stench peaked, dread set in. Danger. Immediate and primal. I glanced at Guy. He nodded: time to back out. We backed out—me facing rear, unwilling to turn my back. I feared a charge. Surprisingly, Guy was only 15 feet behind. I suspect he walked backward too. Eventually we hit the trail again, dazed. We stood in silence. Not tactical—just stunned. I have no concept of how long we stood there. I remember being totally surprised by how far we went, and how far off the trail we went. Almost like an unexplainable time warp. We never spoke of it again. The only time I had heard what Guy had experienced was later that morning as he debriefed the CO and some of the others. There is much more to this encounter that I would like to discuss with you.”

Not THAT Problematic
NTP Episode 56 (feat. SFC Baker)

Not THAT Problematic

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2025 34:19


This week on NTP, I sit down with my friend and fellow soldier, a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army, for a real conversation between two comrades. We talk about what's been going on with the recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran, how it feels from inside the ranks, and what civilians often miss when tensions rise. We also reflect on how Army life has changed since I got out in 2018, the realities of leadership, and the mental toll of service. Of course, we keep it light too—with a fun round of This or That: Army Edition and some solid takeaways on purpose, discipline, and staying grounded through it all.Socials:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ntppodcast/Sponsored by:Black Gator Productions:https://www.blackgatorproduction.comhttps://www.instagram.com/blackgatorproduction/Theme Song:Performed by: https://www.instagram.com/whocamille/Arranged by: https://www.instagram.com/escaneli/

Life Liberty Happiness
Veteran Voices: Sergeant First Class Brian "Mayor" Keaton

Life Liberty Happiness

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 56:17


Elevate Your Leadership
Struggles with Traumatic Brain Injury: Treatment and Awareness

Elevate Your Leadership

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 195:23


Sergeant First Class retired Josh Lindstrom is a former US Army Infantryman and Green Beret who served with distinction during the Global War on Terror, earning two bronze stars and a purple heart. After leaving the military, Josh became an adaptive sports athlete and coach, as well as an advocate for wounded veterans through his work with the Blast Foundation, focusing on traumatic brain injury recovery. SHOW SUMMARY In this episode, Robert “Bob” Pizzini is joined by Josh Lindstrom, a retired US Army Infantryman and Green Beret, who shares his deep insights into the enduring impact of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) on veterans. Josh recounts his military career, his struggles with TBI, and how it almost led him to take his own life. Despite the severe challenges, Josh found hope and significant improvement through innovative stem cell treatments. Now, as the founder of the Blast Foundation, he advocates for better TBI treatment and awareness, aiming to help veterans receive the care they need. The discussion also touches on leadership, resilience, and Josh's passionate mission to continue serving his fellow veterans. This episode is a heartfelt and informative journey through the invisible wounds of war, the complex path to recovery, and the spirit of relentless leadership. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in the Military: Josh Lindstrom highlights the severe impact of TBI among service members, often leading to unrecognized and untreated mental and physical health issues, contributing to high suicide rates. Stem Cell Treatment for TBI: Josh passionately advocates for stem cell treatment as an effective solution for TBI recovery, sharing his own success with the procedure. Challenges in Seeking Help: Josh shares his personal struggles in obtaining proper treatment through traditional military and VA channels, underscoring a systemic issue in recognizing and addressing non-visible injuries like TBI. Importance of Humility in Leadership: Josh emphasizes that true leadership involves humility, understanding that failures are part of the journey, and learning to accept and grow from them. Human Life Value: The initiative to provide stem cell treatment underscores the immense value of human life and the need to address medical needs beyond conventional approaches. QUOTES "Pain is the body asking for stem cells." "Leadership is getting people to know to do what you know must be done." "Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a prevalent yet often invisible injury in the military, leading to severe long-term consequences if untreated." "Prepare to have your ass kicked because it's going to happen." About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mission Brief: The Official Podcast of the Israel Defense Forces

In this episode of Mission Brief, Sergeant First Class in the reserves D sits down with Shani farhi (lourie), Head of pedagogy section in the International Institute for Holocaust Educationto talk about “Netzer Aharon”- The holocaust survivors who were the last descendants of their family. They fought for the establishment of the state of Israel.These were men and women who emerged from the horrors of the Holocaust and went on to fight for the survival of a newly established Jewish state. Their stories are not only a testament to survival, but to the power of rebuilding, defending, and believing in something greater.When they died, they had no family to remember them. Now they're remembered by the nation, and we have to make sure their stories are heard.To learn more about the last descendants, read their stories and light a memorial candle, visit this link: https://www.izkor.gov.il/en/b9b30e34960ba665bc7e5ab4401422cf/life-storiesMay their memory be a blessing.

America's Heroes Group
Ep. 766 - America's Heroes Group: Afghan Refugee Crisis and Veteran Advocacy with John Moses and Stephanie Kalota

America's Heroes Group

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2025 30:07


In this episode of America's Heroes Group, Stephanie Kalota, U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Veteran and creator of The Political Veteran Podcast, reconnects with her longtime friend and fellow veteran John Moses. John is a retired Sergeant First Class and co-founder of the Massachusetts Afghan Alliance (MAA). Together, they explore the critical issues surrounding the suspension of the Afghan Refugee Program, moral injury, and the unique role veterans play in advocacy and sponsorship efforts for Afghan families.With nearly two decades of shared service and experience, Stephanie and John highlight the ongoing struggles of Afghan refugees, especially those affected by recent executive orders halting resettlement programs. They also shed light on the emotional and logistical challenges faced by veterans who sponsor Afghan families, the impact of the crisis on veterans' mental health, and how communities across the U.S. can help.

FIDF Live
FIDF LIVE Briefing: Update on Israel's Multi-Front War w/ Ruthie and Andy Weiser, Grandparents of sergeant First Class Roey Weiner, Z”L

FIDF Live

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2024 43:53


FIDF CEO Steven Weil is joined by Ruthie and Andy Weiser, Grandparents of sergeant First Class Roey Weiser, Z”L, a combat solider in Battalion 13 of the Golani Brigade, who was killed on October 7th, 2023, to talk about loss and the mixed emotions they and their family have experienced over the last 15 or so months. Andy explains the heroics of Roey, who defended his base, Erez, from Hamas terrorists for hours. He was ultimately overrun by Hamas after having run out of bullets. Roey and his comrades saved 12 soldiers. Roey was 21 years old. The loss beared a heavy burden upon Ruthie and Andy, who participate in a grandparents support group, where they share each other's thoughts and experiences about loss, and explore the uniquely challenging role of being the parent of a parent of a fallen soldier. However, Ruthie explains, this isn't a tragedy. Roey was doing his job, and Ruthie takes great pride in her grandson and what he did on that tragic day.  Donate NOW at FIDF.org for the fastest and most direct way to give IDF Soldiers what they need most. 100% of your contribution will go to meet their emergency humanitarian needs.

WBT's Morning News with Bo Thompson
Retired Sergeant First Class Jason Frost On Good Morning BT

WBT's Morning News with Bo Thompson

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2024 12:29


Bo and Beth welcome Retired First Class Sergeant Jason Frost to the show to reflect on Veterans Day as well as to talk about what he's doing to help honor Gold Star families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raven Conversations
Raven Conversations: Episode 132 - How I Direct Commissioned - 2LT Taylor Anderson

Raven Conversations

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024


In this episode of Raven Conversations, 2LT Taylor Anderson, a member of A Co, 1-161st Infantry Battalion talks about how he direct commissioned from Sergeant First Class to Second Lieutenant in the Washington Army National Guard.

Inspire People, Impact Lives with Josh Kosnick
Change the World One Word at a Time with Andy Weins | Spartan Leadership Ep. 179

Inspire People, Impact Lives with Josh Kosnick

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2024 94:14


We were honored to have Andy Weins, Owner & Founder of Camo Crew, Sergeant First Class in the United States Army Reserves, Author of ‘Words Fucking Matter, leader, speaker, and coach, on the Spartan Leadership Podcast!He is an absolute wealth of knowledge on the topic of leadership, public speaking, and being extremely mindful of how and why we make the choices we make. Follow Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyweins...Read ‘Words Fucking Matter': https://a.co/d/aDxIRBYFollow Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkosni...Follow Josh on Instagram: https://kairos.joshkosnick.com/aboutCONNECT WITH ME HERE:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTwitterTikTokYouTube SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST HERE:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube

Inspire People, Impact Lives with Josh Kosnick
Change the Word One Word at a Time with Andy Weins | Spartan Leadership Podcast Ep. 179

Inspire People, Impact Lives with Josh Kosnick

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 94:14


We are honored to have Andy Weins, Owner & Founder of Camo Crew, Sergeant First Class in the United States Army Reserves, Author of ‘Words Fucking Matter, leader, speaker, and coach, on the Spartan Leadership Podcast!He is an absolute wealth of knowledge on the topic of leadership, public speaking, and being extremely mindful of how and why we make the choices we make. We learned a lot and have plenty more to learn from him and we are confident you will be a better person after listening to this episode. Follow Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyweins?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appSubscribe to Andy's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/words-fucking-matter-7072224025543929856Read ‘Words Fucking Matter': https://a.co/d/aDxIRBYFollow Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkosnick?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appFollow Josh on Instagram: https://kairos.joshkosnick.com/aboutKairos Coaching & Consulting - We specialize in helping business leaders scale their businesses without losing sight of what matters most – their health, relationships, and personal fulfillment: https://kairos.joshkosnick.com/aboutCONNECT WITH ME HERE:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTwitterTikTokYouTube SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST HERE:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube

United Public Radio
Science And ParaNormal -Lyn Buchanan- REMOTE VIEWING The Challenges And Protection

United Public Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2024 65:06


Science and ParaNormal Ep. 43 Date: 08.20.24 Guest: Lyn Buchanan Discussion: REMOTE VIEWING: The Challenges and Protection http://irva.org http://crviewer.com About The Guest: Bio: Leonard (Lyn) BuchananLeonard (Lyn) Buchanan, author of The Seventh Sense, is a retired Sergeant First Class who served in the United States Army and a founding member of the International Remote Viewing Association (IRVA). As a remote viewer, he served as a trainer in the United States Army Remote Viewing Unit from 1984 to 1992 and currently serves on the board of directors of IRVA, and leads a controlled remote viewing training Enterprise based in New Mexico

Solid Steps Radio
#439 Green Beret Pedro Munoz, "I Don't Get Ready, I Stay Ready!" With Guest Jason Deming 6:28:24

Solid Steps Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2024 48:30


“He was better than us at everything.” “If he's around, everything is going to be OK.”- Jason Deming, Green Beret, United States Army, speaking about Pedro Muñoz. “I don't get ready, I stay ready.”- Pedro Muñoz, Sergeant First Class, Green Beret, United States Army So imagine this: you're in the 82nd airborne, you're a Green Beret, you are a future 3rd generation Silver Star recipient, and you're still not the baddest man in the room. On a special 4th of July edition of Solid Steps Radio, Kurt and Chad talk with returning guest (episode #405 https://podcasts.apple.com/.../solid.../id1086366166... ) Jason Deming, retired Green Beret in the US Army, who speaks about the “greatest soldier he's ever known” and how his life was impacted being with and around the man who has his name hanging on the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Group, Headquarters building on Eglin Air Force Base, FL, named Muñoz Hall. As one of the best soldiers that have ever put on the uniform, Pedro had to face the reality that every mission could be his last. Staying ready is essential, whether you are in a battle or waiting for one. Jason's life was never the same after meeting Pedro. So much so, that he asks these 2 questions: Who is your “Pedro”? Who are you a “Pedro” to?

UFO Paranormal Radio & United Public Radio
Science And ParaNormal -Lyn Buchanan -Remote Viewing & The 7th Sense

UFO Paranormal Radio & United Public Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 61:35


Science and ParaNormal Ep. 34 Date: 06.18.24 Guest: Lyn Buchanan Discussion: Remote Viewing and the 7th Sense http://irva.org http://crviewer.com About The Guest: Bio: Leonard (Lyn) BuchananLeonard (Lyn) Buchanan, author of The Seventh Sense, is a retired Sergeant First Class who served in the United States Army and a founding member of the International Remote Viewing Association (IRVA). As a remote viewer, he served as a trainer in the United States Army Remote Viewing Unit from 1984 to 1992 and currently serves on the board of directors of IRVA, and leads a controlled remote viewing training Enterprise based in New Mexico.

United Public Radio
Science And ParaNormal -Lyn Buchanan -Remote Viewing & The 7th Sense

United Public Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 61:35


Science and ParaNormal Ep. 34 Date: 06.18.24 Guest: Lyn Buchanan Discussion: Remote Viewing and the 7th Sense http://irva.org http://crviewer.com About The Guest: Bio: Leonard (Lyn) BuchananLeonard (Lyn) Buchanan, author of The Seventh Sense, is a retired Sergeant First Class who served in the United States Army and a founding member of the International Remote Viewing Association (IRVA). As a remote viewer, he served as a trainer in the United States Army Remote Viewing Unit from 1984 to 1992 and currently serves on the board of directors of IRVA, and leads a controlled remote viewing training Enterprise based in New Mexico.

Borderland with Vincent 'Rocco' Vargas
Exiled Patriots: The Untold Stories of Deported U.S. Veterans

Borderland with Vincent 'Rocco' Vargas

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2024 65:08


On today's episode, Vince continues to dive deeper into the cases of deported veterans with guests Alex Murillo and Livier "Livvy" Lazaro. Alex Murillo, a Navy veteran and son of Mexican immigrants, was brought to the U.S. as a toddler and served two tours in Iraq as a jet mechanic. After returning home in 2000, he struggled with PTSD and civilian life, leading to a 2009 conviction for marijuana possession with intent to distribute. Deported to Mexico in 2011, he was separated from his family of four but was allowed to return to the U.S. in 2022. Now, he seeks to assist other deported veterans. Livier "Livvy" Lazaro, a first-generation Mexican American, joined the military at 17 and served as an Army Combat medic in Iraq during the 2003 invasion and again in 2007. She retired as Sergeant First Class after 20 years and became the first female Commander of VFW Post 7420 in San Diego. As part of the VFW, a nonprofit veterans service organization, Livvy played a key role in passing a national directive to help bring home deported veterans. Follow VFW Post 7420 at https://www.instagram.com/vfwpost7420/?hl=en Borderland is an IRONCLAD Original.

The Ross Kaminsky Show
5-24-24 *INTERVIEW* Phil Stemple Stepfather of US Army Ranger Sergeant First Class Tomas Avey

The Ross Kaminsky Show

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 11:49


Vietnam Veteran News with Mack Payne
Episode 2788 – Medal of Honor tribute to Sergeant First Class John Baca

Vietnam Veteran News with Mack Payne

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2024 9:30


Episode 2788 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about Sergeant First Class John Baca and his Congressional Medal of Honor award honors. The featured story comes from The We are the Mighty website and was titled: … Continue reading →

The Tina Ramsay Show and Podcast
S10 Ep252- S10 Ep252- Meet Fa'apepele Hunkin,

The Tina Ramsay Show and Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 21:06


Fa'apepele Hunkin, affectionately known as "Pele," hails from the beautiful island of American Samoa. She was born in Nu'uuli, American Samoa, and raised by her cherished grandparents, Fa'apepele and Leauma Auva'a, in Vaiusu & Pesega, Samoa. Her profound faith, life journey, and remarkable experiences are a testament to the sacrifices and guidance of her parents and grandparents. Above all, Pele attributes her journey to the love, mercy, and grace of God. As a devoted mother, Pele is blessed with five children: Dominique, Nicole, Dean Jr., Victoria, and Isabella. She's also a proud grandmother to Milan and Nalani and a loving fur baby parent to Deabo. Her life is a vessel of love and positivity. Pele is a retired United States Army Combat Veteran who served with honor and distinction in various organizations and deployments, ultimately achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. Today, Pele has emerged as a dynamic speaker and an international best-selling author, known for her book "HEART OF A WARRIOR, The Humble Journey of a Samoan Warrior." She's also a Contributing Author to eleven bestselling and international bestselling anthologies. Pele is the founder of Pele Inspire-Embracing Authentic Love. In November 1994, Pele enlisted in the United States Army. She married Deanne Ignacio Tajalle, the man she had fallen in love with and the father of her three biological children (Nicole, Dean Jr., and Victoria). Tragically, Deanne suffered a catastrophic accident while serving as an Army contractor in Ballad, Iraq, which left him in a coma for six months before he passed away. Pele's life has been marked by multiple losses, including becoming a single parent and widow. She also navigated the challenges of a subsequent divorce. She serves as a National Campaign Team Member and Alumni of the Wounded Warrior Project. Pele holds a Master's in Health Care Administration (MHA) from the University of Management and Technology. In October 2023, Pele was interviewed about her book by Simone Riley of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in Manchester, UK. She also had the privilege of speaking to junior students at the Manchester Enterprise Academy (MEA) in Manchester, UK, addressing the theme "DREAMS DO COME TRUE." Pele is a resilient individual who possesses an unwavering passion for making a positive impact in the lives of those she encounters. Her mission is to live to the fullest and leave a meaningful legacy, embodying the principle of "live full and die empty." Pele's divine purpose is to inspire and empower women to recognize their worth as vessels of love and positivity as they fulfill their God-given purpose. Daily, Pele lives by two guiding words: LIVE and LOVE. For her, it means embracing life fully, pursuing one's passions, and seizing every opportunity for personal growth. Her journey has given her the strength to share her story and the glory of God with the world. https://www.amazon.com/Heart-warrior-Pele-Hunkin-ebook/dp/B0B8LLLSWV/ref=sr_1_1crid=3C4OZLTQHFXGB&keywords=pele+hunkin+heart+of+a+warrior&qid=1660675589&sprefix=pele+hunkin+heart+of+a+warrior%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-1 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thetinaramsayshow/message

Making Sense with Sam Harris - Subscriber Content

Share this episode: https://www.samharris.org/podcasts/making-sense-episodes/366-urban-warfare-2-0 Sam Harris speaks with John Spencer about the reality of urban warfare and Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza. They discuss the nature of the Hamas attacks on October 7th, what was most surprising about the Hamas videos, the difficulty in distinguishing Hamas from the rest of the population, combatants as a reflection of a society's values, how many people have been killed in Gaza, the proportion of combatants and noncombatants, the double standards to which the IDF is held, the worst criticism that can be made of Israel and the IDF, intentions vs results, what is unique about the war in Gaza, Hamas's use of human shields, what it would mean to defeat Hamas, what the IDF has accomplished so far, the destruction of the Gaza tunnel system, the details of underground warfare, the rescue of hostages, how noncombatants become combatants, how difficult it is to interpret videos of combat, what victory would look like, the likely aftermath of the war, war with Hezbollah, Iran's attack on Israel, what to do about Iran, and other topics. John Spencer is an award-winning scholar, professor, author, and combat veteran. He currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. He is also a founding member of the International Working Group on Subterranean Warfare. John served 25 years in the U.S. Army, having held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. He was an active duty Army officer during two combat tours in Iraq. His research focuses on military operations in dense urban areas, megacities, and urban and subterranean warfare. Spencer holds a Master of Policy Management from Georgetown University, and his writings have appeared in the Time magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and many other publications. He is considered one of the world’s leading experts on urban warfare and has served as an advisor to everyone from top four-star generals to world leaders. He is the coauthor of Understanding Urban Warfare. Website: www.johnspenceronline.com Twitter: @SpencerGuard Learning how to train your mind is the single greatest investment you can make in life. That’s why Sam Harris created the Waking Up app. From rational mindfulness practice to lessons on some of life’s most important topics, join Sam as he demystifies the practice of meditation and explores the theory behind it.

The Unbeatable Mind Podcast with Mark Divine
What's Really Happening at the Southern Border? (with Vince Vargas)

The Unbeatable Mind Podcast with Mark Divine

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 37:28


The stories that you hear about the border from mainstream media might not be showing the full picture. If you want to know what's really going on, it's often best to go directly to the source. Vincent “Rocco” Vargas is an Army veteran and former Border Patrol agent who served three combat tours with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. After leaving active duty, he joined the U.S. Border Patrol in 2009. In recent years, Vargas discovered passions for screenwriting and acting, landing a major role on FX's "Mayans M.C.". Today, Vargas continues serving in the Army Reserves as a Sergeant First Class. When not on duty, he runs Light the Fuse, Beteran, and enjoys staying active through Brazilian jiu-jitsu while being a dedicated husband and father to his eight children in Dallas, Texas. Key Takeaways:   Border Patrol's Role: Border Patrol agents play a critical yet underappreciated role as patriotic defenders keeping America's borders secure and serving as the first line of defense against terrorist threats. Their importance for national security is immense. Reality vs Perception: There are major gaps between the reality of a Border Patrol agent's daily duties and life on the frontlines versus the public's perception shaped by misinformation and politicization. Vargas wrote his book to close these gaps. Policy Impacts: Flawed policies and incentives exacerbated the border crisis, overflowing resources and limiting agents' capabilities despite their best efforts. Resolving issues requires multilayered policy changes. Ranger Combat Tours: Vargas brings unique experience from serving three combat tours as a U.S. Army Ranger. This firsthand experience of being on the frontlines against terrorist threats shaped his perspective on defending America's borders.   Order Vincent's Book: https://a.co/d/4jW6abC   Links for Vincent Vargas: Instagram Facebook Website  

The RADD Podcast
The Price Of Freedom - Jeff Dawson, American Hero

The RADD Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2024 69:02


Meet Jeff Dawson, the most decorated soldier of the Army's 28th Ordnance Company. Sergeant First Class, 28th Ordnance EOD, Purple Heart recipient, Distinguished Service Cross Recipient, Distinguished Member of the Ranger Regiment, husband, father, and American Hero are all ways to describe Jeff's life and legacy. Jeff is a legend among his peers, and there is a push by many in the special operations community to award Jeff the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions and inspiring perseverance. Jeff tells the miraculous story of his time in Afghanistan, the two most life-changing moments, his amazing recovery, and life after service in this episode of The RADD Podcast.---------------------------------------------------Buy Money Shackles: The Breakout Guide To Alternative Investing:https://moneyshackles.com/Learn more about Done-For-You Real Estate Investing : https://raddiversified.com/Ready to Invest in the REIT? :https://raddiversified.com/Want to Partner on Deals? Become an Inner Circle Member: https://icradd.com/join/SEC Filing : https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1721469/000110465922005564/tm223896d1_253g2.htm-----------------------------------------------------Dutch Mendenhall | Social Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/TheRealDutchMendenhall/https://www.instagram.com/dutchmendenhall/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dutchmendenhall/Subscribe to The RADD PodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kS2Mtu6rGt5xBezh526yH#PurpleHeart #Entrepreneurs #Veterans #PTSD #FinancialIndependence #KetamineInfusions #AyahuascaCeremony #DistinguishedCross #SpecialOperationsWoundedWarriors #SOWW #TaskForceDagger #ExplosiveOrdnanceDisposal #JeffDawson #DutchMendenhall

Hazard Ground
Ep. 346 - Chris Corbin (U.S. Army Special Forces / Sergeant First Class)

Hazard Ground

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2023 117:57


Sergeant First Class Chris Corbin entered military service in July 1995. Prior to becoming a Green Beret with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), he served in various Army units such as the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division (1995-1999), and the 1st Battalion, and 75th Ranger Regiment (1999-2002). On February 17th, 2011, Corbin was on his third tour to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). That day, he was on patrol with his Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) through a village in the Helmand Province, when he stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and suffered injuries to both legs resulting in a bilateral, below-the-knee (Bilat BK) amputation. On March 24th, 2012, 13 months after his injury, Chris, with his Green Beret father, Master Sergeant Nelson Corbin, ran his first 5K race to benefit the Fisher House on Eglin Air Force Base. His determination and will coupled with the support and motivation provided by his father and teammates enabled Chris to finish his first race in 27 minutes and 34 seconds. 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: Chris Corbin

The Tactical Empire
Vincent Vargas - Examining the Border Line

The Tactical Empire

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2023 44:11


Meet Vincent "Rocco" Vargas, a versatile individual with a diverse background. He began his journey by enlisting in the United States Army in 2003 and served three combat deployments with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Vincent also held the role of an infantry Drill Sergeant. Following his active duty service, he transitioned to the reserves with the rank of Sergeant First Class. After leaving active duty, Vincent worked in special operations as a medic with the Arizona Department of Corrections and later the U.S. Border Patrol. In 2013, he chose to pursue a career as an entertainer, marking a significant turning point in his life.What You'll Learn:The challenges of working at the US southern borderVincents background and experience with immigrationThe heart behind vincents new book "BorderlineContact Information: To connect with Vincent "Rocco" Vargas, visit his website: Vincent "Rocco" Vargas. If what you heard resonated with you, you can find Jeff on Instagram, Facebook.And don't forget to visit us on Apple Podcasts to leave a review and let us know what you think! Your feedback keeps us going. Thanks for helping us spread the word! 

The Fire You Carry
142: SFC Retired, Donald Francisco, The Intersection Of History & Music.

The Fire You Carry

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2023 67:17


In this episode, Kevin and Nole are joined by Don Francisco. Don retired from the U.S. Army after a 30-year career with the rank of Sergeant First Class. He spent that time in the service doing a very unique job, he was a fifer with The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. If you don't know what that means, don't worry, we get into it in the episode. Because of this experience, he now works as a  Historical Interpreter at George Washington's Mt. Vernon. We get into a lot of great stuff in this podcast, Mr. Francisco has a wonderful perspective on life that you are sure to enjoy. Make sure to follow the links in the show notes to see more. Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecordsDon Francisco on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/don.p.francisco/Don Francisco on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/flute4jesus/?hl=enDon Francisco running and fifing!https://www.mountvernon.org/blog/2018/08/running-and-fifingDon Francisco jamming with The Mountain Fifes and Drums.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9UbivKyCN4Amazing Grace at George Washington's Tomb with Don Francisco. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nEh3rN3DrYTaps at George Washinton's Tomb with Don Francisco. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ijfcs9PRJwThe Fire Up Progam video.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I__ErPW46Ec&t=12s&ab_channel=FireUpProgramThe Fire You Carry Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/thefireyoucarry/Sign up for a class at The Fire Up Program!https://www.fireupprogram.com/programsDonate to The Fire Up Program.https://www.fireupprogram.com/donateThe Fire Up Program Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/fireup_program/Kevin's Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/kevinpwelsh/?hl=enNole's Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/nolelilley/?hl=enJoin us on Discord.https://discord.gg/rkDa9Ae27qBuy us a coffee to support the podcast.https://discord.gg/rkDa9Ae27qBuy podcast apparel.https://thefireyoucarry.threadless.com  

The OneCast
Fulltime Soldiers and Warriors on the Water Army Outdoor Team Member Master Sergeant Josh Watkins and Sergeant First Class Daniel Hodge talk about their lives, mission, and fishing for the U.S. Army.

The OneCast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 91:31


This week on The OneCast Ben, Pete, and Trey are joined by US Army Outdoor Team Members Master Sergeant Josh Watkins and Sergeant First Class Daniel Hodge.   These two men are using tournament bass fishing, to achieve the Army's mission and to show soldiers of the future the opportunities the US Army can provide them.   MSG Josh Watkins is an active-duty soldier who is currently fishing the NPFL and talks about his first tournament, how he got into bass fishing, and how the Army is helping him to achieve a lifelong dream. SFC Daniel Hodge is an active-duty soldier in the Army and currently fishing MLF BFLs and talks about his journey to fish with the Army Outdoor team.  These two men share the Army Outdoor Teams mission, how they are working towards mission success, and the other areas the AOT has soldiers.   There is a ton of really great information in this one so be sure to listen along! Follow the team on their socials! Army Outdoor Team on Facebook Army Outdoor Team on Instagram US Army Marketing and Engagement Brigade on Twitter     Join the snagless revolution head to onecastfishing.com and use the code TheOneCast to save 10% off your order.  Catch more fish and lose less tackle!

Real Ones with Jon Bernthal
Vincent "Rocco" Vargas is an actor, content creator who served on three combat deployments with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment

Real Ones with Jon Bernthal

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2023 133:51


Vincent "Rocco" Vargas is an actor, producer, and writer, known for Range 15, the MBest11x YouTube channel and the Vinny Roc podcast. Rocco went on to serve three combat deployments with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. Vargas also served as an infantry Drill Sergeant. He then left active duty and entered the reserves with the rank of Sergeant First Class. After leaving active duty, Vargas worked in special operations as a medic with the Arizona Department of Corrections and then the U.S. Border Patrol. ⁠Join Real Ones on Patreon⁠ OR FOLLOW US on  ⁠YouTube⁠ + ⁠Instagram⁠ + ⁠Tik Tok⁠ OR FOLLOW @jonnybernthal on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Twitter⁠ Sunwarrior is a proud sponsor of Real Ones Visit ⁠www.sunwarrior.com/realones⁠ for 15% off the best plant-based protein and collagen on Earth

Danger Close with Jack Carr
Vincent Vargas: Borderline

Danger Close with Jack Carr

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2023 99:48


Vincent “Rocco” Vargas is a special operations combat veteran, former Homeland Security Federal Agent, actor, writer, and producer. During his 12 years of service, Vincent went on three combat deployments with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. After leaving active duty, he joined the Army Reserves as Sergeant First Class. In 2009, he became a Federal Agent with the Department of Homeland Security, where he worked extensively on the United States-Mexico border, serving as a medic with the Special Operations Group. After his time in the military, Vincent experienced severe bouts of PTSD. In an effort to help other veterans, Vincent founded Beteran, an apparel company where 50% of all proceeds go toward helping veterans seek treatment for trauma and transition back to civilian life. As an actor, Vincent is known for his role as “Gilly” on Mayans MC, as well as in films including Range 15, Lucy Shimmers and the Prince of Peace, and Dark of Light. Today, Vincent is the Head of Marketing at the security services firm The North Group. His new book, Borderline: Defending the Home Front, will be released in November. You can learn more about Vincent at vincentroccovargas.com and beteran.com You can follow Vincent and Beteran on Instagram @vincent.rocco.vargas and @beteran.hq Navy Federal Credit Union: Today's episode is presented by Navy Federal Credit Union. Learn more about them at navyfederal.org Protekt: Get 25% off at protekt.com/dangerclose Black Rifle Coffee Company: Today's episode is also brought to you by Black Rifle. Purchase at http://www.blackriflecoffee.com/dangerclose and use code: dangerclose20 at checkout for 20% off your purchase and your first coffee club order! SIG: This episode is sponsored by SIG Sauer. You can learn more about SIG here. Aimpoint: Visit https://aimpoint.us/promotions/2022/jackcarr/ and use code JACKCARR and receive a free signed hardcover of The Devil's Hand, the latest in the Terminal List Series. Featured Gear: SIG SAUER P365 Montana Knife Company Black Rifle coffee Exclusive Coffee Club Subscription Park City Gun Club Code of the West

Hot Takes With Matt Gaetz
Episode 89 LIVE: America's Bravest (feat. Sergeant First Class Martin Acosta) – Firebrand with Matt Gaetz

Hot Takes With Matt Gaetz

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2023 25:15


Today on FIREBRAND: Congressman Matt Gaetz is joined by his special guest to the State of the Union address, retired Green Beret Sergeant First Class Martin Acosta, to discuss his service and what patriotism means to him. Watch on Rumble: https://rumble.com/v28na1a-episode-89-live-americas-bravest-feat.-sfc-martin-acosta-firebrand-with-mat.html

The First Degree
Episode 230: Bennie William Schuck

The First Degree

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2023 54:13


In the early 2000s, the US Army opens a misconduct investigation on Bennie William Schuck II. Bennie's teenage daughter is accusing him of sexually molesting her seven years ago when she was only five years old. But, when the Criminal Investigation Division struggles to secure an interview with the daughter, they close the investigation. Eleven years later, Bennie retires from the US Army as a respected Sergeant First Class. During his military tenure, Bennie was deployed twice, received multiple medals for excellent service, and was an esteemed expert among his peers. His record was spotless. But on August 8th, 2019, 45-year-old Bennie William Schuck II is arrested for creating and distributing child pornography with his girlfriend, 35-year-old Amber K. Talley. One of their victims is Amber's 9-year-old daughter. In episode 230, Jac and Alexis discover the shocking truth behind why Bennie William Schuck II was able to escape justice for so long while working for the US Army.

Training4Manhood
Men, Two Words: Finish Well

Training4Manhood

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2022 31:57


Guest: Robert Christian CW5 Robert Christian was raised in McAllen, Texas.  He reported to Basic Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina in 1996.  Attending Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Gordon, Georgia, he was assigned the MOS of 25U, Signal Support Systems Specialist. During his 10 years enlisted time, Rob served in the ranks of Private thru Sergeant First Class.   Rob holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management and is a graduate of the Army Warrant Officer Senior Service Education (WOSSE) course.  His combat deployments include Afghanistan, Iraq, and East Africa.  His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (1BOLC), the Meritorious Service Medal (2BOLC), the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (1BOLC), the Army Achievement Medal (3BOLC), the Combat Action Badge, the Parachute Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. Rob has been married to his wife Leilani for 22 years.  They have 5 children ages 17-2.   If Robert could go back, what advice would he give himself to avoid some of life's pitfalls? Robert's words - “It ain't worth it.”   Excellent resource - Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices by Thomas Brooks   Have you seen another man who really lived out his faith in Christ - spent time in the Word, in prayer, speaking truth and fighting against sin in their own life?   You must understand this truth: you will reap what you sow. If you plant apple seeds, don't expect to eat oranges later in life. God's Word says this in Galatians 6:7-9: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. What is it about those “middle-ages” from 40-50 years old - you are either going to make it or break it - what will be the difference in your journey? Consider the small “crack” in your windshield of life - if you don't address it early, if you leave it alone and just wish it away, that small crack will most likely spread across your life and cost you the integrity of your windshield, which is a metaphor for your life!   1 Peter 5:8-9 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.   Man Alive: Transforming Your Seven Primal Needs into a Powerful Spiritual Life by Patrick Morley Robert - two things to address everyday - obedience and sacrifice. Robert - finish well. There are too many examples of guys who are taken out of the race of life and don't finish well - and how do you finish well…cling to Christ.   T4M guys - just a reminder that Training4Manhood is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) ministry and you can make donations either via Zelle (info@training4manhood.com) or by visiting the Training4Manhood website. Huge thank you to Jared Wood for allowing T4M to use his music in our intro and outro selections.

Dudes Talking Freedom
DTF58 Veteran's Day Special with Retired Sergeant First Class, US Army, Daniel Ornelas

Dudes Talking Freedom

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2022 66:13


The Dudes invite their video producer and Retired Sergeant First Class, US Army, Daniel Ornelas to the other side of the camera to discuss life both during his stint in the US Army as well as back home state-side. Daniel volunteers his time at his local VFW in Frisco, Texas helping fellow veterans.Follow us on Social Media! Like/Subscribe/Share!MerchandiseSponsor: Warriors for Freedom[INTRO] “Stomp It Away” by Silent Partner is licensed under CC-BY-NC 2.5[OUTRO] “Ever Felt pt 2” by Otis McDonald is licensed under CC-BY-NC 2.5

Cleared Hot
Episode 255 - John Spencer

Cleared Hot

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2022 168:43


John Spencer is an award-winning scholar, professor, author, combat veteran, and internationally recognized expert and advisor on urban warfare and other military-related topics. Considered one of the world's leading experts on urban warfare, he served as an advisor to the top four-star general and other senior leaders in the U.S. Army as part of strategic research groups from the Pentagon to the United States Military Academy. Spencer currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies with the Madison Policy Forum. He recently served as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. He also served as a Colonel in the California State Guard with an assignment to the 40th Infantry Division, California Army National Guard as the Director of Urban Warfare Training. Serving over twenty-five years in the active Army as an infantry soldier, Spencer has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. His assignments as an Army officer included two combat deployments to Iraq as both an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander, a Ranger Instructor with the Army's Ranger School, a Joint Chief of Staff and Army Staff intern, a fellow with the Chief of Staff of the Army's Strategic Studies Group, and Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point. Spencer holds a Master's of Policy Management from Georgetown University. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, LA Times, NY Daily News, Wired Magazine, Politico, The Hill, Foreign Policy Magazine, Defense One, Army Magazine, and many other publications. Spencer is also a regular military analyst and commentator for CNN, MSNBC, BBC, and numerous news and media organizations. He currently lives in Colorado Springs, CO, with his wife and three children.

Leadership BITES
John Spencer, Connected Soldier

Leadership BITES

Play Episode Play 60 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 10, 2022 47:35 Transcription Available


John Spencer is an award-winning scholar, professor, author, combat veteran, and internationally recognised expert and advisor on urban warfare and other military related topics. Considered one of the world's leading expert on urban warfare, he served as an advisor to four-star generals and other senior leaders in the U.S. Army as part of strategic research groups from the Pentagon to the United States Military Academy.We talk about:LeadershipCultureSocial CohesionCommunityTribeTeam DynamicGroup IdentityShared AdversityLiving up to historyCreating the narrativeProximity leadershipArtifactsPrideSpencer currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies with the Madison Policy Forum. He recently served as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. He also served as a Colonel in the California State Guard with assignment to the 40th Infantry Division, California Army National Guard as the Director of Urban Warfare Training.Serving over twenty-five years in the active Army as an infantry soldier, Spencer has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. His assignments as an Army officer included two combat deployments to Iraq as both an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander, a Ranger Instructor with the Army's Ranger School, a Joint Chief of Staff and Army Staff intern, fellow with the Chief of Staff of the Army's Strategic Studies Group, and Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point.

Constructing Greatness
Swinging At Curveballs, Regardless of the Odds with Mike Ward

Constructing Greatness

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2022 24:17


Being medically discharged from the Marine Corps certainly felt like one of life's curve balls for our guest, Mike Ward. Still, his calling for public service wouldn't be silenced by that; it'll just remain dormant for a time. Following his father and grandfather's steps, he'd become a Union electrician, which years became a critical piece for developing his career as a first responder. Meet Mike Ward, New Jersey State Police's brand new Sergeant First Class, former Hazardous Materials Specialist, Task Force Officer at the ATF, and Electrical Aspects of Fire Investigation Instructor at the National Fire Academy. In this episode, Mike shares his journey from the Army to the trades and then back to public service. We talk about his experiences as a first responder, the pros and cons of such a taxing activity, and his drive to prioritize passion over profit. We also delve into Mike's hobbies, his unique philosophy of dealing with life's curve balls, and much more. Some Questions I Ask:How you got into the Union and became an electrical journeyman? (3:07)In August of 2012, you became an instructor for the ATF on explosive safe handling and disposal. Could you talk a bit about that? (7:12)In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Mike's decision to work in the trades (4:13)How is it like being a first responder when tragedies hit (10:12)The benefits of setting the bar as high as we can (13:39)Some of Mike's passions and hobbies (17:48)Why putting passion before profit always pays off (20:29)Connect with Mike:LinkedInLet's Connect!LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Petty is Dying
How to Win on the Battlefield of the Mind: A Wounded Warrior's Story, with Army Ranger Sergeant First Class Ryan Davis

Andrew Petty is Dying

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2022 66:13


Just three years ago, in the dark of night on a battlefield in a foreign land, Army Ranger Sergeant First Class Ryan Davis was hanging on to life by the very slimmest of threads.  The tale of heroism, selfless love and courage, and perseverance in the midst of profound physical, emotional, and psychological suffering that unfolded on and after that battlefield incident is nothing short of mindblowing. It's the stuff for which Medals of Honor are awarded. In fact, Medal of Honor petitions have been submitted for individuals involved in Ryan's rescue. It's the stuff out of which new battlefield protocols and medical interventions are developed. In fact, new protocols and interventions have been developed as a result of lessons learned. And it's the stuff on which Hollywood blockbusters and award-winning documentaries are based.   In short, it's the kind of story for which I have absolutely no frame of reference, and neither do most of you, I would imagine. Ryan was pushed to the extremes of human experience and lived to tell the tale. And tell the tale he does--in this episode, for you and me.   It would be easy to spend an entire episode and then-some on the battlefield incident itself and the harrowing ups and downs of his recovery from it. But I did my best to manage my curiosity about those chapters of Ryan's story so that we could also explore what Ryan has learned on the extreme frontiers of human experience that we can integrate into our lives now--before a crisis hits or Mortality makes a surprise appearance. Because those who venture to the outer limits of human experience and return have knowledge that the rest of us need.  Today, in some of the most fundamental ways, 10-year Army Ranger veteran Ryan Davis is literally and figuratively a new man. Precisely how will become clearer as you listen to our conversation.  As you listen, though, don't fail to look for how Ryan's Story has insight that you can put into Action in your own life. Insight + Action = Transformation. Don't overlook the Transformation potential available to you in Ryan's harrowing tale--as different from your own Story as it may be.  Because no matter how different the specific circumstances of each of our Stories may be, we are all caught up in the same Big Story of humans trying to find their way through Life on Planet Earth. That's where Ryan's story and your story converge.  Tune in to the full episode for the whole story and all of Ryan's hard-won wisdom for your life.  Highlights from This Episode Ryan shares a blow-by-blow account of the battlefield encounter that changes his life forever Ryan shares the two moments that turned the tide in his recovery.  Ryan shows us how the body follows the mind–for better or for worse. The choice is yours.  Ryan explains how to use our pain to propel us forward in life.  How to transform your minutes into “moments” Separating your job from your Purpose What Ryan knows because of his experience that the rest of us need to know What's most important to Ryan now   Redeeming Ryan's Suffering In Your Own Life "We've stared this in the eye and we've cried at it and we've screamed at it and we've fought with it and we do not fold to it." Ryan said this in reference to how he and his son have responded to Ryan's new reality. This, my friends, is sometimes what it takes to keep moving forward in life. Resolve. Grit. An unwillingness to give in or give up, no matter what life throws at us. An unwavering determination to keep going. The spirit of a warrior.  Among many, many things, this sticks with me from Ryan's story. I want to embody and exhibit the spirit of a warrior in life--battered and bruised but undefeated to the end, triumphant in death.  What sticks with you? How will Ryan's Story change your Story for the better? Search your heart, be honest, and be specific.  Let Ryan's suffering be redeemed in the fruit that it produces in your life.  May Ryan's sacrifice be redeemed in all of our lives.    The Graveyard Group: Win on the Battlefield of Your Mind and Die With No Regrets Don't wait to encounter your Mortality until you have to. By then, it's too late to change anything. There's no do-over.  In the Graveyard Group, you intentionally confront the reality of your Mortality to tap into its incomparable power to motivate you to give what matters most the attention it deserves NOW. You do this with the help of your own personal, confidential board of advisors. Along the way, you overcome obstacles, mend relationships, make dreams a reality, become the person you were made to be, and live the life you were made to live with guts, gusto, and abandon. In short, you fulfill your destiny and set the stage to die with no regrets.  New groups for men and women are forming now.  Go Here to learn more, or email me. I'm so glad you tuned in today. Don't forget to follow this show, and I'll see you next time on Andrew Petty is Dying.   Let's Connect As your personal coach, I can help you win on the battlefield of your mind so you win on the battlefield of Life. Find me on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, visit my website, or email me.    Connect with Ryan Email | Instagram | Facebook   Follow Andrew Petty is Dying & Leave a Review Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher   If You Liked This Episode, I Think You'll Like These, Too Ep. 012 | How to Harness the Winds of Discomfort to Get Where You Want to Go: Becoming a Seasoned Sailor on the Seas of Life Ep. 044 | Lessons from the Chair: Redefining Disability, Avoiding the Victim Cave, and the Path to Personal Power Ep. 051 | Risk and Reward: How to Create a Life That You Love, With Andrea Green

Becoming Your Best | The Principles of Highly Successful Leaders
Episode 338 - Colonel John Spencer. Life, Leadership, and Social Connections in Modern War

Becoming Your Best | The Principles of Highly Successful Leaders

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2022 33:36


During a battle, the side with more chances of getting out of it victorious isn't always the best equipped, experienced, or brave; generally, it is the one with the most cohesive team. Our guest, Colonel John Spencer, divides cohesion into two groups, social and task cohesion. In his over 25 years of experience in the military, he learned that leadership is critical to guaranteeing a team's cohesion, success, and survival.Colonel John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute, is a veteran, a widely published author, considered one of the leading experts in military operations in cities, a teacher, and a leader with a Master of Policy Management from Georgetown University. In his over 25 years in the military, John has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major.As an Army officer, he was deployed twice in Iraq as an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander. Colonel John Spencer is also the Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point.In this episode, we delve into Colonel John's journey in the military and how serving his country and traveling the world changed his perspective on life, purpose, and vision. He describes his realization of how writing can change lives, his passion for studying, researching, and teaching about war and its intimate connection with leadership.We also have a closer look at his family life and the experience of staying home with his children while his wife, whom he met in Iraq, was deployed for combat. Tune in to Episode 338 to discover a world where leadership and survival go hand in hand.Some Questions I Ask: How did you end up in the military? (4:44) If there's a young person that ranges 16 or 17, what advice do you have for them as they consider joining the military? (9:23) If you look back and think about the things that bring you satisfaction, what would those things be? (19:43)In This Episode, You Will Learn: Colonel John's dream job and the opportunities he got thanks to his military career (6:13) Colonel John describes the experience of staying at home with his children while his wife was deployed for combat (11:10) The importance of forming cohesive teams (12:13) The differences between the two forms of cohesion (18:43) Colonel John talks about the search for identity and purpose (22:01) The two ways in which people form strong bonds (27:29)Resources: Colonel John Spencer's website Colonel John Spencer's booksConnect with Colonel John Spencer: LinkedIn Instagram Twitter YouTube FacebookBecoming Your Best Resources: Becoming Your Best WebsiteEmail: support@becomingyourbest.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Imigrandes
Como é a carreira militar nos Estados Unidos? Com Antônio Caiado | #017

Imigrandes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2022 55:42


Os Estados Unidos são um país que oferece muitas oportunidades para quem deseja trabalhar em diferentes áreas e também empreender, mas o que muita gente não imagina é que a carreira militar e o serviço público federal também oferecem muitas oportunidades para imigrantes. Neste episódio do podcast “ImiGrandes” você vai conhecer a história de Antônio Caiado, imigrante brasileiro que saiu do interior de Goiás e se tornou Sergeant First Class do Exército americano. Antônio conta como conseguiu alcançar um cargo de destaque nas forças armadas, a importância da persistência para a sua carreira, e a sua missão de levar informações para brasileiros que desejam trilhar o mesmo caminho. Acompanhe nas redes: https://idolink.bio/imigrandes Siga nosso convidado: oantoniocaiado Produção: Voz e conteúdo | www.vozeconteudo.com.br - @vozeconteudo

Savage Wonder
Phillip Kennedy Johnson

Savage Wonder

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022 137:58


It's ironic that the festival spawned by this podcast is the very thing that caused this podcast to go dark for the past two months, but thank you all very much for staying with us as I got thru the final months of festival planning to pull off a successful year 1 of the Savage Wonder Festival of Veterans in the Arts. That said, I knew we needed to come roaring back with a kick-ass guest. We got one. https://www.phillipkennedyjohnson.com/ (Phillip Kennedy Johnson) is an Eisner-nominated writer and musician living in the Washington, DC/Baltimore region. His comics work has been published by DC, Marvel, BOOM! Studios, Archaia, IDW, Aftershock, and Scout Comics. He is the creator of comic series The Last God from DC Black Label, Last Sons of America, Warlords of Appalachia, Smoketown, and many more. Outside of writing, Johnson has a full-time career as a soldier, trumpet player, composer, arranger, and teacher. As a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army, he regularly tours the continental United States with The U.S. Army Field Band and the Federal Brass of Washington, DC. Prior to joining the Army Field Band, he toured the world with the Glenn Miller Orchestra from 2004-2005, and has performed with the Moscow Ballet, the Dallas Opera, Washington Symphonic Brass, the Lexington Philharmonic, and the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Johnson is a devoted lover of American art forms, especially jazz, comic books, and mixed martial arts. Follow Phillip https://www.instagram.com/phillip_kennedy_johnson/ (here).

The Daily Dose
Ep. 62 Sergeant First Class Andy Anderson & Master Sergeant Matt Collins from the US Army Join us for some discussion on US military training tactics

The Daily Dose

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2022 47:52


Sergeant First Class Andy Anderson & Master Sergeant Matt Collins from the US Army Join us for some discussion on US military training tactics, where we see pitfalls in their current training regimen, how they would suggest military personnel handle their training outside of required PT. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-daily-dose6/support

GovExec Daily
Building a Cohesive Team Under Duress

GovExec Daily

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2022 23:00


Building cohesion can be difficult, but it's even more arduous under distressing circumstances like that of urban warfare. Our guest today writes in a forthcoming book about the benefits of primary group cohesion on performance and how it can be applied throughout the non-military world. Col. John Spencer is the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies with the Madison Policy Forum. Spencer has served over 25 years in the Army and has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. He's also the author of the upcoming book Connected Soldiers: Life, Leadership, and Social Connections in Modern War. He joinedthe podcast to talk about his book and creating and managing a cohesive team. *** Join GovExec Daily on Clubhouse! https://www.clubhouse.com/club/govexec-daily-group

War Stories by Preston Stewart
197: Modern Day Urban Combat with John Spencer

War Stories by Preston Stewart

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2022 62:38


Preston and Sayre are joined today with John Spencer–one of the world's leading scholars and experts in the field of urban warfare. He has studied, taught, and written about urban warfare for over a decade. John is the creator of The Mini-Manual for the Urban Defender and currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies with the Madison Policy Forum. He recently served as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. This was a great conversation coming from a scholar and warrior with first hand experiences on both fronts as Spencer has one of the most infantry resumes possible. Serving over twenty-five years in the active Army as an infantry soldier, Spencer has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. His assignments as an Army officer included two combat deployments to Iraq as both an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander, a Ranger Instructor with the Army's Ranger School, a Joint Chief of Staff and Army Staff intern, fellow with the Chief of Staff of the Army's Strategic Studies Group, and Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point. We hope you enjoy.

Mat Talk Podcast Network
2021 Distinguished Member Dremiel Byers

Mat Talk Podcast Network

Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2022 19:51


One of only two Americans to win three medals at the Greco-Roman World Championships, Dremiel Byers is considered one of the best Greco-Roman wrestlers in U.S. history. Byers won a gold medal at the 2002 World Championships and is one of just five Americans to win a gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling. He added a bronze medal in 2007 and a silver medal in 2009 joining Distinguished Member Matt Ghaffari as the only Americans to medal three times. His 2007 bronze medal helped the United States win its first and only Greco-Roman World team title, by a single point over Russia. Between 1999 and 2011, Byers made eight World Greco-Roman and two Olympic teams, finishing seventh in 2008 and ninth in 2012. He is the winningest wrestler, in any style, in Dave Schultz Memorial International history with six gold medals and 11 total medals. He was named USA Wrestling's Greco-Roman Wrestler of the Year in 1999, 2002 and 2009. Byers attended Kings Mountain High School in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, where he was an All-State wrestler and won the North Carolina state high school heavyweight championship in 1993. He attended North Carolina A&T on a football scholarship, but was forced to leave college to take care of family matters. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and joined the Army's World Class Athletes Program in 1996. He retired from the Army as a Sergeant First Class and currently serves as an assistant coach for the WCAP team. Byers was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum's Alan and Gloria Rice Greco-Roman Hall of Champions in 2015. For his record-setting performances during his storied Greco-Roman wrestling career, Dremiel Byers is named as a Distinguished Member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Bio via the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Parenting in Uniform
Urban Warfare Expert Discusses Ukraine & Deploying as a Parent w/COL John Spencer

Parenting in Uniform

Play Episode Play 44 sec Highlight Listen Later Apr 5, 2022 53:45


John Spencer is an award-winning scholar, professor, author, combat veteran, and internationally recognized expert and advisor on urban warfare and other military related topics. Considered the world's leading expert on urban warfare, he served as an advisor to the top four-star general and other senior leaders in the U.S. Army as part of strategic research groups from the Pentagon to the United States Military Academy. Spencer currently serves as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point and as host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast. He also serves as a Colonel in the California State Guard with assignment to the 40th Infantry Division, California Army National Guard as the Director of Urban Warfare Training. Serving over twenty-five years in the active Army as an infantry soldier, Spencer has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major. His assignments as an Army officer included two combat deployments to Iraq as both an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander, a Ranger Instructor with the Army's Ranger School, a Joint Chief of Staff and Army Staff intern, fellow with the Chief of Staff of the Army's Strategic Studies Group, and Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point.In his new book, Connected Soldiers: Life, Leadership, and Social Connections in Modern War (July 1, 2022, Potomac Books), Col. Spencer delivers lessons learned about effective methods for building teams in a way that overcomes the distractions of home and the outside world, without reducing the benefits gained from connections to family. Spencer holds a Master of Policy Management from Georgetown University. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, LA Times, NY Daily News, Wired Magazine, Politico, The Hill, Foreign Policy Magazine, Defense One, Army Magazine, and many other publications. Spencer is also a regular military analyst and commentator for CNN, MSNBC, BBC, and numerous news and media organizations. He currently lives in Colorado Springs, CO, with his wife and three children. He looks forward to connecting via Twitter@SpencerGuard.

The Leadersmith
AN URBAN WARFARE EXPERT TELLS US HOW TO DEFEND A CITY [EPISODE 211]

The Leadersmith

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2022 47:25


The Russian-Ukraine war had raged for over a month now. I asked urban warfare expert, John Spencer, to come on the show to tell us how he would defend a city from a hostile force. If you are not familiar with John, here are some highlights of his bio: -Award-winning scholar, professor, author, combat veteran -Internationally recognized expert and advisor on urban warfare and other military related topics -Considered the world's leading expert on urban warfare -Advisor to the top four-star general and other senior leaders in the U.S. Army as part of strategic research groups from the Pentagon to the United States Military Academy -Chair of Urban Warfare Studies with the Madison Policy Forum -Recently served as the Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point -Co-Director of the Urban Warfare Project, and host of the Urban Warfare Project podcast -Served over twenty-five years in the active Army as an infantry soldier, Spencer has held ranks from Private to Sergeant First Class and Second Lieutenant to Major -His assignments as an Army officer included two combat deployments to Iraq as both an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander, a Ranger Instructor with the Army's Ranger School, a Joint Chief of Staff and Army Staff intern, fellow with the Chief of Staff of the Army's Strategic Studies Group, and Co-Founder, Strategic Planner, and Deputy Director of the Modern War Institute at West Point. -Spencer holds a Master of Policy Management from Georgetown University -Spencer is also a regular military analyst and commentator for CNN, MSNBC, BBC, and numerous news and media organizations -Connect via Twitter @SpencerGuard In this episode, he will talk about :  -The power of small groups -Making yourself invisible -Closing the castle gates -Looking down and digging tunnels -How to keep the enemy out -Using surprise to your advantage as the defender -What is more likely to kill you (it's not bombs or bullets) -And much more… Listen to his Urban Warfare Project podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/urban-warfare-project/id1490714950   As you know, we are focused on the topic of Leadership in the Russian-Ukrainian war. I wrote a book focused on Zelenskyy' leadership and you can find it here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Need-Ammunition-Not-Ride-Volodymyr-ebook/dp/B09VVW3NSV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=6YHOEVZ983NQ&keywords=i+need+ammunition%2C+not+a+ride&qid=1647625321&s=digital-text&sprefix=%2Cdigital-text%2C4098&sr=1-1 If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and tell others who might benefit from this podcast. I would like to hear from you. You can leave a comment below.  I would like to hear if this was useful. Contact me on Twitter or Gettr @daringerdes or leave a video message: https://flipgrid.com/leadersmith  Join our FACEBOOK COMMUNITY and continue the discussion there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/learnleadership/ or Join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13966891/ WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO HEAR? Reach out with a comment or question: https://forms.gle/fJP6ym4LDxJrKX2c8  

Redpill Project - Waking Up The World
Psychic Spies & Controlled Remote Viewing w/ Lyn Buchanan | Conversations On The Fringe

Redpill Project - Waking Up The World

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2022 89:44


Psychic Spies & Controlled Remote Viewing w/ Lyn Buchanan | Conversations On The Fringe   Lyn Buchanan joins the conversation tonight to discuss Remote Viewing. Lyn Buchanan, the author of The Seventh Sense, is a retired Sergeant First Class who served in the United States Army and a founding member of the International Remote Viewing Association (IRVA). As a remote viewer, he served as a trainer in the United States Army Remote Viewing Unit from 1984 to 1992 and currently serves on the board of directors of IRVA.   Guest Websites: https://crviewer.com/   Book: https://www.amazon.com/.../ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi...   JOIN US ON THE Social Redpill - A Private Social Network -  www.socialredpill.com   Check Out All Our Shows And Get Great Information On Guests At www.redpills.tv   Use Promo Code: RPP at  MyPillow.com to get even lower prices. www.redpills.tv/mypillow   My Patriot Supply Be Prepared When Disaster Strikes redpills.tv/patriot   The Redpill Project.. Find Us and Subscribe! Web https://redpills.tv   Telegram http://t.me/RedpillsTV   Rumble https://rumble.com/c/RedpillProject   CloutHub https://clouthub.com/redpills   GETTR https://gettr.com/user/redpill   TikTok https://tiktok.com/@realjoshreid   Foxhole App:  https://pilled.net/#/profile/127862   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redpillproje...   DLive:  https://dlive.tv/RedpillProject   HELP SUPPORT The Repill Project! [Tip Jar] Bitcoin: 39Wbf3ScFxegBsqXZoNhiZ5N553HhrbYH9 Ethereum: 0xCAaBDc59CA49eBAC74bF6C5da41B557378e30Da0   Donate Using Give Send Go: https://givesendgo.com/redpills

The Victory Podcast
043: Michael "Dream Chaser" Smith | Above Elbow Amputee | Para Triathlete | US Army Sergeant First Class Retired

The Victory Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2021 120:22


In this episode Michael and I talk about his Race Across America  (RAAM) endeavor. (he is the first above-elbow amputee to complete RAAM )We discuss racial issues in America and overcoming adversity through cooperation and unity with the non-profit he founded Run Bike Swim 4 Equality, where their mission is simple and straight forward: At Swim Bike Run 4 Equality Foundation we strive to increase diversity and inclusion in the sport of triathlon. https://www.swimbikerun4equality.com/Michael ask if you wish to contact or follow him on Social media that you do so through his foundation pages on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/569332837056757Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swimbikerun4equality/Michael "Dreamchaser" Smith's bio:Michael first joined the military in September 1998. While working as a station commander stationed in Nashville, Tennessee, he was involved in a hit and run accident that left me with an above elbow amputation. Facing medical retirement, Michael made the 12 decision to fight for what he knew he wanted, which was to remain on active duty with the United States Army. After a lengthy rehabilitation, Michael fought his way to stay an active duty member despite having lost his arm by completing all physical agility and marksmanship assessments, often outperforming able-bodied soldiers. After a board review, Michael was allowed to remain on active duty, making him the first above-elbow amputee to return to active duty in the United States Army. It was during the process of fighting his way back to active duty that Michael discovered endurance sports. He was an athlete before joining the Army, so he was always very physically fit and competitive. Losing his arm, while difficult to process and maneuver, was not going to be something that would keep Michael from continuing to compete. He began with Spartan obstacle races, then moved into cycling and eventually triathlon. As an Elite Athlete Team Captain For USAT Ambassadorship Program, Michael is training to land a spot on the 2024 Paris Paralympic Team. Understanding that minorities (specifically black Americans) are underrepresented athletes in the sport of triathlon, Michael founded Swim Bike Run 4 Equality to bring more diversity to the sport. Michael is currently retired from the United States Armed Forces. Still, he will continue to pursue his dream of landing a spot on the United States Paralympic Triathlon Team with the assistance of PlayTri DFW and Coach Morgan Hoffman.