Oscar Mike Radio

Jeff Nelligan, a U.S. Army Reserve Veteran, applied military discipline principles to parenting, emphasizing punctuality, follow-through, and modesty in his children. He believes in preparing his sons for real-world challenges, encouraging them to complete tasks independently, like navigating public spaces and handling financial transactions. This approach aims to foster self-reliance and problem-solving skills, setting clear expectations and enabling personal growth.

Jeff values humor in parenting, using it to ease tensions and enhance learning experiences. He asserts that humor can be an effective tool to reinforce lessons and values.

The discussion touches on broader themes:

Confidence and Resilience: Jeff’s military-inspired parenting approach highlights the importance of instilling confidence and resilience in children, preparing them for life's challenges.

The Power of Humor: Humor can significantly impact parenting and leadership, fostering connection and education.

These insights underscore the importance of support, resilience, and a positive approach to life's complexities. The episode's lessons encourage learning, laughter, and growth, emphasizing the impact of humor and the significance of solidarity and support in various aspects of life.

This week features John Michael Ferrari, an Army veteran turned celebrated musician. John's journey from a San Francisco youth to a national recording artist embodies resilience and passion. Starting with a right-handed guitar despite being left-handed, he mirrored Elvis's iconic posture, showcasing the adaptability that marked his life, including during his military service.

John was drafted into the Army unexpectedly, which led to intense training and combat experiences in Vietnam. These experiences deeply influenced his music, as seen in songs like "Dust Off," inspired by rescue helicopters. After nearly two years in Vietnam and teaching at Fort Gordon, John left the military, facing post-service challenges. Music remained his constant, leading him from cover performances in Las Vegas to creating his songs, guided by industry mentor Pepper Jay.

John's music, often reflecting his military experiences, resonates with listeners for its emotional depth. Advising fellow veteran musicians, he stresses goal setting, industry knowledge, and the importance of mentorship and community, particularly in Nashville.

This week features returning guest, Stephen Russell, creator of the "Tales of Nihilism" comic series. Stephen’s artistic path highlights the immense potential within our community. "Tales of Nihilism" has since amassed over 7,000 page reads, proving its appeal beyond conventional superhero tales.

Stephen's involvement in Plastic City Comic-Con was pivotal, turning his passion project into a serious business endeavor. The convention scene, while showcasing creative work, also presents opportunities for direct audience engagement.

Our discussion also touched on Stephen’s forthcoming memoir, "Troublemakers: The Greatest Dog and Pony Show in Iraq," which promises an unfiltered look at his deployment experiences, offering insights often overlooked in mainstream war narratives. This memoir addresses the broader cultural and societal impacts of the Iraq War, shedding light on the chaos and consequences of the conflict.

Reflecting on personal and broader veterans' transitions from military to civilian life, it’s clear that support in career shifts is vital. From veterans turning into truck drivers to programs aiding skill development, these initiatives are essential for harnessing veterans' skills post-service.

Inspired by Stephen’s dedication to storytelling and the veteran experience, I look forward to his future appearances at comic conventions and the release of his memoir. His journey from soldier to artist and writer is a testament to the varied paths veterans can pursue, blending entertainment, education, and thought-provoking narratives that bridge the military and civilian worlds. Keep an eye out for Stephen's impactful work, which enriches our national narrative.

This week’s show highlighted the legacy of Japanese American World War II service members through a conversation with Dr. Mitchell T. Maki, Executive Director of the Go For Broke National Education Center. This center, founded by veterans 35 years ago, aims to preserve the history and contributions of Japanese Americans, focusing on their extraordinary service during a period of severe discrimination following the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. Despite facing forced relocation to internment camps, many Japanese Americans volunteered for military service, showcasing their unwavering loyalty and honor to the United States.

Dr. Maki emphasized the soldiers' resilience, especially the "little men of iron" of the 100th Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, whose heroic efforts in Europe are legendary. They played key roles in breaking the Gothic Line, rescuing the Lost Battalion in France, and were recognized as the most highly decorated unit for their size in U.S. military history, earning 21 Medals of Honor.

Beyond combat, these soldiers contributed significantly as interpreters, translators, and intelligence officers in the Pacific, helping shorten the war and save lives. Their post-war efforts in Japan and leadership roles in Hawaii further exemplify their impact.

Despite their contributions, returning soldiers faced racism and prejudice, but remained determined to rebuild their lives and communities. Advocacy efforts eventually led to the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which apologized and provided reparations for the internment.

The "Go For Broke" mentality, a commitment to give one's all despite adversity, encapsulates the spirit of these service members. The Go For Broke National Education Center continues to share their stories, inspiring future generations and preserving their legacy. Dr. Maki's discussion underscores the importance of remembering these veterans' sacrifices and contributions, inviting us to explore their enduring legacy and the center's efforts to honor them.

This episode features an interview with Cody Howell, a Navy veteran turned country music artist. Howell shared his riveting experiences as a mass communication specialist, from serving on an aircraft carrier to engaging in special operations. His transition to music was a testament to the healing power of creativity, and he gave us a glimpse into the soulful stories behind his songs.

“Any Way You Go” gets you thinking about choices in life. You come to a fork in the road, you have to go some way. I enjoyed hearing Cody’s perspective on life and how his military transition worked.

Cody, I appreciate the relationship you have with Jason Johnson of Project K-9 Heroes. I know he values your friendship and support of his mission.

This episode was a tapestry of voices, some clear and others not, including a musical interlude that reminded us of the power of art. Each story, each insight, is a thread in the larger narrative of service, sacrifice, and the human spirit's resilience.

You can find out more about Cody by going to these links.

Joe Klaunberg’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his days as a Marine Corps chemical biological radiological nuclear defense specialist to his current endeavors in the acting industry, Joe exemplifies the versatility of military training. His skills in martial arts and critical thinking have found new expressions in film. His involvement with Veteran Powered Films and his creative response to the loss of a friend highlights the therapeutic power of storytelling.

Michah Haughey, Producer of Silver Rose Entertainment and Veteran Powered Films connected me with Joe and the story behind their newest project Homestead.

Homestead is a dramatic horror film. It is in a dystopian setting but takes a couple of different twists from other films in this genre. I won’t spoil it for you, watch the trailer!

Joe talked with me about being in a project like this and how important it was to have a way for Veteran actors to have a place to showcase their talents and grow their acting careers.

I am excited to see Homestead, check out the trailer here - https://veteranpoweredfilms.com/homestead/

You can find out more about Veteran Powered Films and Joe Klaunberg by going to the following links.

This week Jeffrey Meshel talks about profound insights from his book, “Trust Is a Double-Edged Sword: Trust Me”. Trust is the foundation of all our relationships, both personal and professional. Jeffrey eloquently discussed the impact of trust, the repercussions of its absence, and the need for informed decision-making.

Jeffrey and I talked about the building blocks of Trust: Integrity, Consistency, and Reliability. These form the core of healthy relationships.

This episode was a journey through one of the core aspects of the human experience, which is the essence of trust.

We wrapped up the episode by emphasizing the significance of integrity, consistency, and reliability in fostering trust.

This show features Dr. Aaron Bryant, a multifaceted individual who has served in the U.S Army became a mental health professional, and author.

Growing up in Compton, California, Dr. Bryant's life took a significant turn when he joined the military and became a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger. His transition back to civilian life was fraught with challenges, but it was also a period of self-discovery and growth. He spoke candidly about the high standards and expectations of the military and the difficulties he faced reintegrating into civilian society.

Dr. Bryant's journey is a powerful narrative of personal development and professional evolution. He shared with us the inspiration behind his books, "Permission to Heal" and "Mental Health," which offers guidance for mental wellness and reflects his personal experiences. Breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health is a cause close to his heart, and he's dedicated to fostering open conversations about these challenges.

As a developmental coach, Dr. Bryant goes beyond the surface, helping individuals grow and develop by understanding their expressions, actions, and backgrounds. He recounted a touching story about connecting with a young lady who was also a veteran, despite being miles apart. This story highlighted the importance of genuine conversation and tailored support.

Helping others has had a profound impact on Dr. Bryant's personal growth. He acknowledged the continuous learning process and the ongoing journey of self-improvement. His commitment to mental health advocacy is unwavering, and he plans to continue sharing his experiences and insights through future books.

I had the pleasure of talking with Johnny Moody, a Marine Corps veteran whose story is as inspiring as it is informative.

Johnny's journey began in the Marine Corps, where discipline and dedication shaped his character. After serving our country, he transitioned to a firefighter role, but his passion for helping others didn't stop there. He pursued a career in nursing, driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's health.

During our conversation, Johnny shared his dissatisfaction with traditional medicine's quick-fix approach. This led him to discover bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) at Optimal Bio. Unlike synthetic drugs, BHRT uses hormones identical to those our bodies naturally produce, sourced from soy and yams.

At Optimal Bio, Johnny and his team take a unique approach to healthcare. They prioritize education, and spending time with patients to explain the intricacies of their bodies and the profound effects of hormone optimization.

We discussed how BHRT could potentially improve marriages by addressing hormonal imbalances that affect intimacy and libido. Johnny shared stories of patients experiencing renewed energy, cognitive clarity, and relief from menopausal symptoms.

Johnny stressed the importance of personalized treatment, tailoring hormone dosages to everyone’s body chemistry. This customized approach ensures that patients receive the most effective care possible.

Access to BHRT can be challenging through traditional healthcare systems. Optimal Bio aims to change that, offering veterans and others a path to holistic wellness. Johnny outlined the payment structure, emphasizing the organization's commitment to expanding awareness and accessibility.

As our conversation wrapped up, Johnny reflected on his growth as a practitioner. He drew parallels between his military training and his dedication to providing honorable, courageous, and committed care to his patients.

On "Oscar Mike Radio," we not only talk about challenges but also solutions and hope. I extend my gratitude and welcome two incredible guests, Dana Spain, and Jessica Baker, to discuss the pressing issue of veterans' homelessness and the power of advocacy.

Dana shares her inspiring journey of serving those who served. Her passion led to the founding of the Veterans Village; a concept born out of the desire to provide a supportive community for veterans. She explains the motivation behind this initiative and the impact it has on the lives of our nation's heroes.

Jessica, a veteran of the US Navy, continues to serve her country, but now in a different capacity. Her story is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our veterans, and her work in advocacy is making a tangible difference in the lives of her fellow servicemen and women.

In this episode, we've covered a lot of ground regarding providing homes for Veterans in need, but the central theme remains: support, connection, and advocacy can transform lives. Whether it's for individuals with special needs, those struggling with suicidal thoughts, or veterans facing homelessness, our community's strength lies in our ability to come together and lift each other.

Wreaths Across America Day, a day to honor and remember our fallen heroes took place on December 16th, and in the spirit of understanding the immense effort that goes into this heartwarming tradition, we continue our series by interviewing Courtney, the Manager of Transportation and Industry Relations for Wreaths Across America. Courtney, a civilian with over 20 years of experience in the transportation industry, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that wreaths reach their intended destinations, covering the United States and beyond.

Courtney's role involves coordinating with over 400 partner organizations, each with a unique set of logistical challenges. As we sat down with Courtney, she shed light on the dedication and hard work required to make Wreaths Across America a success.

She shared stories of the challenges they face, from unpredictable weather conditions to the sheer scale of the operation. But Courtney and her team are relentless in their pursuit of making Wreaths Across America Day a memorable and meaningful experience for all.

Beyond the logistical aspects, Courtney emphasized the emotional significance of the day. Seeing the impact on families and communities is what keeps her motivated year after year. It's not just about delivering wreaths; it's about honoring the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families.

We can't help but be grateful for individuals like her who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that Wreaths Across America Day is a heartfelt and touching tribute to our nation's heroes. Her passion for her work and her commitment to honoring our veterans make her an integral part of this cherished tradition. We salute Courtney and everyone involved in making Wreaths Across America Day a truly special and meaningful event.

Darriel Swatts, a former cameraman in the California National Guard, discovered his own path to tranquility and camaraderie through an unexpected avenue: duck hunting.

After serving his country as a cameraman in the National Guard, Darriel Swatts transitioned back to civilian life. Like many veterans, the camaraderie and shared experiences with fellow service members were deeply missed.

Fortunately, Swatts found The Fallen Outdoors, an organization with a mission that deeply resonated with him. The Fallen Outdoors is dedicated to organizing outdoor adventures for veterans, providing them with opportunities to reconnect with nature and their comrades. The best part? These outdoor excursions come at no cost to the veterans involved.

David, Kelly, and Rick from the Veterans Brotherhood Motorcycle Club, asked me to come with them to southern Massachusetts to meet not one, but two World War II Veterans.

Bill is 99, going on 100, and George is not too far behind. The interesting thing is that both served under General Patton during WWII before they were deployed elsewhere.

George was a combat engineer and Bill was in artillery. They talked about different aspects of serving during that time and what General Patton was like.

Listening to them talk about coming home, I realized they faced challenges all Veterans face. Both talked about how great the Veterans Administration has been with them.

We talked a little football. The New England Patriots will honor George next month, and they had some commentary on how the Patriots could improve their standing!

It is one thing to read the books, watch the movies, and play the video games. It is another matter to listen to these stories from the people who lived them. We can't ever let these stories be forgotten.

Lee grew up in New Orleans and served as a Communications Officer in the U.S. Army.

After getting out, Lee used his experiences to write about 12 Perspectives to Inner Peace. “Look To The Warriors” demonstrates how military experiences and services can be lessons to everyone regardless of the challenges they are facing.

Talking with Lee, I learned that “Look to the Warriors” takes real military experiences from Lee and others and distills them into the 12 Perspectives.

These perspectives allow someone who is not in the military to get an in-depth look at how adversity and challenges were turned into victories.

You can get “Look to the Warriors: 12 Perspectives to Cultivate Inner Peace” on Amazon now (Link Below).

Tony served in the Navy and started his Veterans’ Advocacy in 2013.

He rides his motorcycle across the United States to bring comfort to Gold Star Families.

When Tony connects with Gold Star Families the time spent lets them know that they are not forgotten. If possible Tony will use the support given to the Gold Star Foundation to assist families where needed.

This conversation is another example of a Veteran taking what he has and using it to bring comfort to others. Gold Star Foundation is a non-profit and is funded through donations. Consider supporting Tony today.

Carroll Harris served in the Marine Corps and retired as a Lt. Colonel before joining the US Postal Inspection Service.

I learned a lot about how The US Postal Inspection Service works to keep Americans safe. Operation Protect Veterans is a way to ensure our nation's heroes are not scammed out of their benefits.

The US Postal Inspection Service & AARP worked together to create Operation Protect Veterans, ...." and provide valuable information and resources that veterans, their loved ones, and their friends can use to help protect against scammers."

According to Carroll, all Americans need to be vigilant in protecting others from scammers and bad actors who would take advantage of Veterans and other Americans. I liked how the Marine has never quit protecting against enemies foreign and domestic.

Veterans must file a PACT Act claim or submit an intent to file by August 9, 2023, to have their benefits backdated to August 10, 2022, the day the legislation was enacted.

The PACT Act is a significant expansion of VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This Act includes over 20 new presumptive conditions associated with burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. It also adds new presumptive locations for exposure to Agent Orange and radiation.

Anyone that has done anything in the military content creation space has run into Michael Madsen at one point or another. We connected a while ago when I was making the switch from being strictly a podcast to video. I asked him to come on because he is an example of someone who continues to serve.

Michael joined the Army as a Private and then got into flying helicopters. His career is an example of what one can do when they take advantage of every opportunity afforded to them.

After retiring in 2014, Michael started working as a Veterans Service Officer. I have always liked that you are getting information from someone who has personally gone through the VA system.

At minute 23:50 Mike says something about the Volunteer VSO Program that I have never heard. Trust me, you will have the same reaction I did!

As if Michael was busy enough, he also works with Operation Rallypoint V.P. of the Valkyrie Initiative in Birmingham, Al. and is the owner of the Foxhole Internet Radio Network, LLC.

Listening to Michael, I realized he could have chosen to retire, and taken it easy as he rode off into the sunset. Instead, he has chosen to keep serving by sharing his knowledge with others.

You can find out more about the organizations Michael supports by going to the links below.

Joe came on Oscar Mike Radio for number 327 – Nothing is Louder than Silence.

351 – Brandi Pett – Yes, I am The Veteran Podcast

I had a different direction in mind for number 351. I was going to do a Fourth of July special with me repping Adam Semonick’s 016 Oscar Mike Radio Car. That was the plan until I saw a Facebook post from Air Force Veteran and fellow military podcaster Brandi Pett.

Brandi hosts the "Yes, I am a Veteran Podcast". Brandi came on a Livestream special to talk about her story. Brandi was a Staff Sergeant in the USAF as a Medic. A severe medical situation in the Ari Force almost killed her. Due to her medical situation, she had to leave the Air Force.

After getting out of the Air Force, Brandi focused on her health and recovery. She started finding ways to advocate for Veterans and her life took off.

Brandi was Ms. Veteran America finalist and 2020 Hot Mama of the Year! She is also a journalist, published author, and podcaster. I hope you enjoy this live stream as this is a story of resilience and overcoming challenges in many forms. The best aspect is we just scratched the surface so you will see Brandi again on Oscar Mike Radio.

Subscribe to Yes, I am The Veteran Podcast on Apple Podcasts

I would like to start off by saying thank you to David Danforth and John Kennedy and the rest of the Veterans Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club for connecting me with Ben Hendricks and Luke Young, the founders of The Garrison Speed Shop.

Luke, U.S. Army, and Ben, USCG, met after they left the service through the Nam Knights of America Motorcycle Club.

The Garrison Speed Shop was created to get Veterans and Community members in a space where they can be together while working on motorcycles. I ride a motorcycle. The idea of a place where I can go and work on my ride while socializing with others and learning some new skills is a type of advocacy, we in the Veteran community need. Turning a wrench or learning a new skill in metal fabrication from Luke and Ben will allow Veterans to engage in a hands-on way that can’t be done in other places.

You can get skin grafts for your hands, but I can’t find confirmation for palms. Wear gloves when riding a motorcycle.

Thank you for a great conversation, Ben and Luke, kickstand up and rubber down.

I got connected to Mike Utschig through Stephen Russell who came on in March of this year to talk about his work with “Tales of Nihilism”. Mike and Stephen served together in the Army, so it is cool that we got connected in this way.

Even before we talked Mike helped me when I was thinking about getting RedFall. He advised against it and was right. Diablo IV was the better choice.

Mike’s After-Action Reports is a way for Mike to tell people what he loves about all things movies, television, anime, and video games. He has successfully grown his YouTube Channel by producing relatable content that connects with his viewers.

You can find everything to do with Mike After Action Reviews by going to the following links.

There is a lot about the end of life that I didn’t know anything about. Carlos and I got connected because he serves Veterans with the hospice program he runs for Frederick Health Hospice. I was very interested to learn more.

Carlos joined the Army where he was a Radio Operator and deployed to Grenada. After serving, he worked in the healthcare field and then transitioned to hospice care.

The Veterans Health Hospice Program was created by Carlos to help Veterans get end-of-life care in a way that dignified their service during the end of life.