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. Now an independent artist, John relishes the creative freedom and joy of music-making, from selecting songs to designing album artwork. His narrative is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and authenticity. Sharing the Vietnam Veteran’s story is not just a privilege but a profound source of inspiration. Go to https://johnmichaelferrari.com/ to learn more! Thank you, John and Pepper, for an amazing experience!
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. Go to https://goforbroke.org/ to learn more about these amazing Americans. Thank you, Dr. Maki, for sharing with us!
I talked with returning guest, Audrey McHugh, the “Amazonian Warrior,” a veteran and founder of the Amazonian Warrior Foundation. Audrey’s foundation supports military personnel impacted by sexual assault and PTSD, while her advocacy extends to a pressing issue: deported veterans. This conversation had a different focus because Audry is helping Veterans who are not American citizens. There are documented cases where these Veterans get deported. Historically, immigrant veterans were guaranteed citizenship as recognition for their service, a practice dating back to the War of 1812. However, policy changes—shifting deportation oversight from the Department of Defense to ICE—have jeopardized this promise. Audrey outlines how this issue is often politicized, overshadowing its foundation as a matter of veteran rights. Audrey shares heartbreaking stories, including Arturo, a deported veteran denied life-saving care, whose death underscores the system’s failings. She emphasizes that these veterans served honorably and deserve both recognition and the benefits they’ve earned. Through coalitions with organizations like the VFW and American Legion, Audrey is driving legislative efforts such as the Richard Starr Act and HR 4569 to protect veteran citizenship rights. She stresses the need for bipartisan support, as this issue transcends political divides and impacts military recruitment and morale. Audrey’s advocacy is a rallying cry for action. She urges listeners to contact their representatives and push for legislative change. By uniting as a community, we can ensure these veterans receive the citizenship and support they deserve, honoring their sacrifices and fulfilling the promises made to them. Go to https://amazonianwarriorfoundation.org/ to learn more and connect Thank you for talking with me Audry. We are Oscar Mike, Mission in Flight!
This is part three of a four-part conversation with Army veteran and Green Beret Ben Monette about his new venture, Resilience Recon—a coaching and consulting service focused on mental health and personal development. The Vision Behind Resilience Recon Ben’s journey began with his work at Treehouse Recovery, which inspired his mission to address mental health challenges through community and vulnerability. Resilience Recon emphasizes Connection, Communication, and Collaboration, which form the foundation of his coaching approach. Overcoming Challenges and Taking the Leap Starting a new venture can be daunting. Ben credits community support for guiding him through uncertainties. His philosophy—"success is a marathon, not a sprint"—reflects his commitment to ethical practices and patience. Holistic Growth Through Tailored Services Resilience Recon offers five distinct coaching packages: 1. Strategic Decision-Making: Build a problem-solving mindset. 2. Stress Management: Combat burnout through self-care. 3. Personal and Professional Growth: Develop actionable goals. 4. Accountability: Foster growth through clear expectations. 5. Communication and Connection: Strengthen relationships by sharing struggles. Core Themes: Balance and Resilience Ben highlights the need to balance personal and professional lives, stressing that leaders must care about their team’s well-being. His approach integrates emotional intelligence, community support, and a biopsychosocial-spiritual model to promote holistic well-being. A Roadmap for Self-Discovery Ben encourages reframing challenges and shifting perceptions to foster positivity and resilience. He aims to create lasting impacts on individuals' lives, emphasizing authenticity and growth over metrics. For more information about Resilience Recon, connect with Ben Monette via social media or visit his website (https://resiliencerecon.com/). Thank you, Ben, for talking with me.
A short podcast I did talking about Christmas and my time at the Wreaths Across America Ceremony at Mount Wollaston Cemetary in Quincy, MA. Thank you to the Quincy, MA Veterans' Service Officer, Christine Cugini for this honor. I also read the Christmas story from Luke Chapter from the Bible. Christmas 2024 was a special this year.
Wreaths Across America Radio has been an amazing platform for Oscar Mike Radio. Jeff Pierce, Director of Broadcast and Media Partnerships at Wreaths Across America has built a place for Veterans to tell their stories and be heard. This is how I was connected to USMC Veteran Tabitha Bartley and her show, the Oath We Took Podcast. Tabitha's path to the Marine Corps began unexpectedly with a chance encounter with a recruiter. Drawn to the field of public affairs, she found her calling in storytelling through photography and journalism. Tabitha thrived at Quantico, covering diverse events and fostering camaraderie within her unit. Tab discussed the disbandment of the Marine Corps' last newspaper, raising concerns about preserving military storytelling in the digital age. Tabitha underscored the importance of sharing authentic narratives to strengthen connections within the military community. Her transition to civilian life brought challenges, including navigating health issues after an injury. This experience inspired her to form a support group for women veterans, addressing shared struggles and advocating for healthcare reforms. Encouraged by her community, Tabitha ran for office, focusing on veterans’ needs and holding politicians accountable for their support—or lack thereof—of veteran issues. As a sexual assault victim advocate, Tabitha highlighted the power of honest conversations in addressing sensitive topics and fostering trust and understanding. She continues this work through her podcast, using her platform to amplify veterans' voices. The episode concluded with a shared commitment to storytelling and advocacy, celebrating the resilience and impact of veterans like Tabitha. Her journey reminds us that by sharing our stories and standing for change, we can inspire others and leave a legacy. Listen to The Oath We Took on (https://www.podpage.com/oath-we-took/) and all streaming platforms and follow Tabitha’s advocacy journey on social media. Thank you, Tabitha, for talking with me and sharing so openly. Semper Fidelis
I’m thrilled to share the latest episode of Oscar Mike Radio with you. I talked with Shannon Walker, the incredible founder of Northwest Battle Buddies. Key Takeaways from Our Chat: • Sh annon’s Journey: From a lifelong passion for dog training to founding an organization that has placed over 250 service dogs with veterans, Shannon’s story is one of dedication and heart. • Matching Dogs with Veterans: It’s not just about finding a dog; it’s about finding the right dog. Shannon explains the meticulous process of matching dogs to veterans to ensure a successful partnership. • Ethical Practices in the Industry: We discuss the importance of high standards and ethical practices in the service dog industry, and why it’s crucial for veterans to do their homework when seeking a service dog. • Heartwarming Stories: Shannon shares moving stories of veterans whose lives have been transformed by their service dogs, including a veteran saved from a suicide attempt by his loyal companion. • Training and Support: Learn about the rigorous training process for both dogs and veterans, and the ongoing support that Northwest Battle Buddies provides to ensure lasting success. • Community and Advocacy: Shannon’s vision for the future includes expanding their reach and educating the public about the vital role of service dogs. Plus, an exciting opportunity to support them in winning a Defender 130 Range Rover to help transport service dogs! Why You Should Listen: This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the bond between veterans and their service dogs. Shannon’s insights and stories are not just informative but deeply moving. Whether you’re a veteran, a dog lover, or someone who cares about mental health, this conversation will resonate with you. Call to Action: Tune in to hear Shannon’s inspiring journey and learn how you can support veterans and service dog organizations. And don’t forget to vote for Northwest Battle Buddies starting December 2nd to help them win a Defender 130 Range Rover! Thank you for being part of the Oscar Mike Radio community. Your support means the world to me and to the veterans we serve. Stay safe, stay strong, and keep moving forward. Semper Fi, Travis
I was excited to welcome Carolee Hagstrom, a remarkable mother of two Marine sons and the host of Conversations with the Vet to Oscar Mike Radio. We delved into the unique challenges and joys of parenting children in the military. Carolee shares her deeply personal journey into motherhood, from navigating an unexpected pregnancy to adopting her oldest son. She reflects on the profound emotional experiences of raising sons who chose to serve, including how military life shapes family dynamics. The conversation also touches on her youngest son's post-COVID vaccine health challenges, providing a candid look at the ripple effects of service life and health decisions on families. Through it all, Carolee highlights the strength and resilience it takes to support loved ones in uniform. This episode is a touching reminder of the vital role of community and support networks in helping military families navigate their unique journeys. Use the following link (https://www.youtube.com/@ConversationswithaVet-tt8jb) to watch Carolee. Make sure you subscribe! Thank you, Carolee, for sharing a mother’s perspective on military service. You must be one of the most awesome mothers I have met. Semper Fidelis
In the second installment of our four-part series on Ben Monette, we dive deeper into his journey and mission. If you missed Part 1 (episode #416 - https://oscarmikeradio.com/416-ben-monnette-move-to-purpose/), we explored Ben’s powerful story of overcoming addiction and finding purpose in his recovery. In this episode, Ben shares his experiences with Tree House Recovery, a program that embraces a holistic approach—mind, body, and soul—to helping individuals move beyond addiction. Through Tree House Recovery, Ben not only found the support he needed to rebuild his life but also discovered a calling: guiding others on their paths to healing. To learn more about Tree House Recovery and its impactful work, visit www.treehouserecoverytn.com.
This week on Oscar Mike Radio, I welcomed back Steven Vincent was on Oscar Mike Radio 410 in August 2024. We dove into the unique challenges veterans encounter when transitioning to civilian careers—a timely discussion as we approach Veterans Day. Steven Vincent, a Navy veteran with 25 years of service, and Caitlin Yelinek, Executive Director of Talent Management at T.I.G. Stephen and Caitlin bring a wealth of experience and insight into helping veterans succeed in the civilian workforce. I learned a lot about how companies work with their Veteran employees to improve the career options available to Veterans. Steven emphasized the power of networking and the critical role that leadership support plays in a veteran's transition. Caitlin discussed the importance of building effective veteran hiring programs and highlighted the resources available to support these efforts. Together, they explored practical tools like LinkedIn, the DOD SkillBridge, and the Microsoft SSA program to bridge the gap for veterans entering the civilian sector. Throughout the episode, Steven and Caitlin stressed the importance of relationship-building with employers and leveraging available support systems. Watch and listen in to gain valuable advice for veterans, and anyone seeking to support them in their career journeys. Please go to https://tiag.net/ to learn more and check out a company actively working to support Veterans. Thank you, Caitlin and Steven, for talking with me.
I recently had the privilege of speaking with Major Theresa Drag, a fellow Marine and veteran of the 1st LAAM (Light Anti-Aircraft Missile) Battalion, Alpha Battery, where she served as a crew member on the HAWK Missile System. It’s always meaningful to connect with someone who understands both the military experience and the craft of creating something with their hands. Our conversation spanned Major Drag's military career, her transition back to civilian life, and her continued service with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in South Paris, Maine. Through her active role in VFW Post 9787, Major Drag is helping shape a vibrant community space that supports veterans and their families, fostering connections that reach beyond military service. As a dedicated quilter, Major Drag also shared her involvement with the Quilts of Valor initiative. This inspiring program provides handmade quilts to veterans, offering warmth, comfort, and a tangible reminder of appreciation. Hearing about how these quilts are made, I found myself drawn to the process. Like my own experience with crochet, quilting requires time, dedication, and an understanding of the importance of each stitch. Quilts of Valor serves as a testament to the fabric of service, community, and pride, creating something that will be cherished for generations. Thank you, Major Drag, for your service, your artistry, and your continued dedication to veterans. You can follow VFW Post 9787 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/VFW9787) to see more of the great work happening in South Paris, Maine. Learn more about the Quilts of Valor Foundation at qovf.org.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Garrett Biss, a fellow Marine Corps veteran. Garrett flew C-130s during his 16-year military career, but now, his mission has taken a different direction—helping veterans recover and reconnect with themselves after service. From the moment we started talking, it was clear that Garrett’s passion for the Marine Corps runs deep. But, as Garrett and I both know, leaving that family behind after service can be one of the hardest parts of transitioning to civilian life. Garrett opened up about the emotional toll of losing those connections. It’s not just about leaving behind a job; it’s leaving behind a way of life, and a sense of identity. This loss can leave veterans feeling isolated and unsure of who they are without their uniform. We dove into how this struggle with identity often becomes a barrier to recovery for veterans dealing with trauma or mental health challenges. What struck me most during our conversation was Garrett’s emphasis on the importance of authenticity in recovery. For him, it’s not just about following a prescribed path to healing, but about reconnecting with who you are at your core. Garrett’s work in the recovery space is all about helping veterans find that reconnection. He talked about the Warrior Reset program, an initiative that offers veterans the tools and support to heal emotionally and mentally. Garrett also shared his TED Talk on the unspoken trauma many veterans carry with them—issues that often don’t get the attention they deserve. If you’re interested in learning more about Garrett’s speaking and coaching services or want to invite him on your podcast, head over to his website at garretbiss.com. Thank you, Garrett, for this important conversation. Your dedication to supporting veterans on their path to recovery is truly inspiring!
In a thought-provoking episode, Oscar Mike Radio recently featured Charles Moxley, an attorney and Fordham Law professor specializing in nuclear weapons law. Professor Moxley tackles the complex issue of nuclear deterrence and mutually assured destruction (MAD), often seen as a safeguard against nuclear conflict. However, Moxley challenges this conventional view, arguing that it promotes a dangerous readiness to use nuclear weapons rather than preventing their use. In March 2024, Moxley published his latest book, Comprehensive Study of the Law Concerning the Threat and Use of Nuclear Weapons, where he emphasized the critical need for a more robust legal framework to manage these global risks. He contends that law can play a key role in shaping policies that deter nuclear threats in a more structured and controlled way. The episode ends with a powerful call to action, encouraging deeper engagement with the legal aspects of nuclear weapons to mitigate their dangers. For more insights on this crucial topic, check out Professor Moxley's work on his website, www.nuclearweaponslaw.org. Thank you, Professor, for talking with me and sharing this unique perspective about the role law plays in humanity’s survival.
This conversation features Kristin Leon, an active-duty Navy officer and nurse, and Dog Tag Diva podcast host. Kristin shares her journey into the Navy, her experiences as a medical professional in a military setting, and the challenges of balancing her civilian nursing career with her reservist duties. The conversation covers the importance of health and wellness, the emotional impact of deployment, and the camaraderie among service members. Kristin also discusses her podcast, Dog Tag Diva Podcast, which aims to raise awareness about veterans' issues and inspire positive change. Kristin got her start in television and has enjoyed the transition to podcasting. As a Military Broadcast Radio network member, she credits MBR Manager and Founder Joel Hunt for supporting her efforts. You can find Kristin and the Dog Tag Diva on YouTube, Facebook, and wherever you enjoy your podcasts! Thank you, Kristin, for talking with me!
This is part one of a four-part series. Part two will be released on November 14th, 2024. Travis talks with Ben Monette, an Army veteran and Green Beret. Ben shares his journey from growing up in Ohio and playing Division I soccer to becoming a Green Beret. They discuss the unique role of Green Berets, the rigorous selection process, and the challenges veterans face, particularly regarding mental health. Ben was connected with Tree House Recovery and credits this organization for helping him battle his fight with alcoholism. Now Ben has started Resilience Reconnaissance. Resilience Reconnaissance is a platform Ben has created to provide coaching and access to mental health and addiction resources. This platform combines everything Ben has learned and experienced into a series of offerings that someone can use to get the help they need. You can visit (https://resiliencerecon.com/) to learn more and connect with Ben. The conversation highlights the societal differences in how veterans from various eras are treated and emphasizes the importance of community and support networks for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Thank you Riccoh from ParadeDeck for connecting me with Ben!
In this episode of "Oscar Radio," Travis discusses a recent incident involving the unauthorized use of a Starlink network on the USS Manchester, a U.S. Navy ship. He humorously critiques the situation while explaining the serious cybersecurity implications. Travis also promotes an upcoming fundraiser for "I Got Your Six: Two Lives at Once," emphasizing community support. The episode blends humor, personal anecdotes, and serious commentary on military protocol and cybersecurity, highlighting the risks of unmonitored networks on military vessels and the importance of adhering to security measures. The name “Stinky” was given by Elon Musk for the Starlink Access Points, and in this case, it was in fact stinky. You can read the full article here - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/09/03/how-navy-chiefs-conspired-to-get-themselves-illegal-warship-wi-fi/ IGY6 – Two Lives at Once is doing its fourth annual fundraiser on October 5th, 2024 at the Whitman, MA Knights of Columbus. There is still time to get tickets. Use the QR on the poster below or the Evenbrite Link (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/igy6-two-lives-at-once-4th-annual-benefit-tickets-971488497247) We are Mission in Flight!
This episode features Michael Sodini, founder of Walk the Talk America, an organization focused on suicide prevention within the firearms community. Michael emphasized the importance of discussing gun safety and mental health. Michael shares his journey from the firearms industry to establishing Walk the Talk America, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to support gun owners in crisis. I appreciated the connection to Michael through Keith Hayes of Sinista1 Productions. Keith had Travis guest host on his show, “The Booth” with Grant Magers of American Rounds (https://www.americanrounds.com/). American Rounds will have Walk the Talk America as part of their ammo kiosks. The theme of Oscar Mike Radio in 2025 is how relationships can power advocacy. Michael built relationships with the Veterans Administration and other firearms companies to make mental health a priority for those who purchase and use firearms. The episode underscores the significance of open dialogue and collaboration between different communities to address the complex issues surrounding gun ownership and mental health, aiming to reduce stigma and improve support. Go to https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ to learn more and connect with this mission. Thank you Michael for talking with me about this important issue.
This was a first for me. Anna Castle from Kore PR reached out and asked if I was interested in talking with Nashville recording artist Matthew Oakley. Anna told me Matt Oakley, was the son of a military veteran with a new single dropping called, “Soldier’s Son”. I haven’t interviewed a military son or daughter who was a recording artist, so Matt and I met and started talking. His story is wide-ranging, and I could tell he was proud of his father’s service. Matt shared insights into his creative process, the emotional connection to military families, and the significance of authenticity in music. The conversation highlighted the unique perspective of a military child and the impact of military life on personal identity, offering a heartfelt tribute to military families. As we discussed Matt's music career, he talked about his experiences as a military child, and the inspiration behind his song "Soldier Son," which honors his father's service. “Soldier’s Son” drops on September 12th, 2024. I look forward to listening to the show of love from a son to a father. Check out the links below to get to know Matt and his music. • Linktree - https://linktr.ee/MattOakley • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mattoakleymusic/ • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mattoakleymusic • TikTok - mattoakleymusic (@mattoakleymusic) | TikTok Thank you, Matt, for sharing with us.
I talked with U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard Lieutenant Colonel Les Carroll, an author, filmmaker, and writer. We discussed Les’s military career, focusing on his time at Dover Air Force Base, where he was involved in the “Dignified Transfer” of fallen service members. I had seen the ceremony and had an understanding, but didn’t know what went on behind the scenes. Lt. Carroll described the intense focus and bearing required to maintain professionalism during this time of loss for families and our nation. Les shared insights from his book "This Troubled Ground," which explores the emotional and human aspects of military service. The conversation also touches on Les's filmmaking journey and the importance of storytelling in honoring the sacrifices of service members and their families. “This Troubled Ground” will bring you, the reader, into what the soldier and family experience as their loved one comes home. Les wanted people to see what he experienced. Go to https://lescarroll.com/ to learn more and see some of Les’ other work. Thank you, Sir, for sharing with us. “Dignified Transfer” has taken on a new meaning for me.
This is a different kind of conversation. My guests and I talk about suicide in a very personal way. You will understand that a mother’s pain is only outmatched by a love that can’t be described. However, Susan Cleland has done just that in her book, “Mission Vigilant”. As I talked with Susan Cleland, Sherye Greene, and Karen White from Mission Vigilant I realized we rarely hear about what happens to those left behind because of PTSD. Susan shared the tragic story of her son Michael, an Air Force veteran who took his own life. Sherry, a writer, and Susan’s friend collaborated on “Mission Vigilant about Michael's story. Karen, a counselor to Susan, and now involved with the outreach by Mission Vigilant, discussed the importance of faith and community support in healing. Susan’s faith is an important part of her story, and I appreciated how candid she was about how her faith in God helped her and her family. The conversation emphasized the significance of seeking help, especially for men, and highlighted Mission Vigilant's efforts to provide free counseling for military members, their families, and first responders. You can purchase “Mission Vigilant” from this Amazon using this link – (https://a.co/d/3l3OBDj) . Please go to https://www.missionvigilant.org/ to learn more about the outreach Susan’s outreach. Thank you, Susan, Sherye, and Karen, for sharing with us and showing that hope can be found in the darkest situations. Mission in Flight