S.O.S. (Stories of Service) - Ordinary people who do extraordinary work

Sometimes, you need somebody to tell you the unvarnished truth, share their story filter-free, and provide insights you never considered. Tab does just that. Her authentic, vulnerable, and raw personal storytelling style put you in the room with her like a trusty confidant. Join us on this episode as we discuss her plight to restore her mental health and what she feels veterans need. I always know that when I explore Tab’s content, I get to know her better and learn something new. Tabitha Bartley served eight years as a public affairs specialist in the Marine Corps. While in the Marine Corps she served as a Press Marine for the Quantico Sentry, the assistant director for the Base Community Relations Program at MCB Quantico, the Marketing and Public Affairs Director for Recruiting Station Columbia, S.C. and as Uniformed Sexual assault victim advocate.Tabitha was the first pregnant woman to run for Indiana State Senate and first mentally and physically disabled Marine Corps female veteran to run for Indiana State Senate.She was a project manager for unit campaigns at the Purdue for Life Foundation before returning to the National Capital Region. She is a public affairs specialist for USDA Agricultural Marketing Services.Tabitha serves as the President for the Dept. of Agriculture’s Veteran Employee Organization (first female president), on the Board of Directors for Minority Veterans of America, as the Marking and Public Affairs Officer for the Jack Maas Marine Corps League Detachment. She also hosts the Oath We Took Podcast.Find Tab - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tabbartley?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appOath We Took Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/3ndHktxRzUuFoj4FkNWZC8?si=c3vcY_DCSoO8OHfOj1VMQAVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

If you want to know how to build a digital brand, there’s nobody better to ask than my friend Rich. He’s been an invaluable help as I navigated the podcasting world these last few years. His work combines authenticity, craftsmanship, accountability, and a love of storytelling, which make him stand out as a sought-after thought leader.Join us as we discuss how he transitioned so radically from his military life as a helicopter pilot to building a company in the digital space. We’ll also cover how you can build your own brand in the digital landscape.Rich Cardona, a first-generation American and retired Marine Corps attack helicopter pilot, found his passion for media after transitioning from the military and earning his MBA. After working in a leadership role at Amazon and consulting with Claude Silver from VaynerMedia, Rich launched his own company, Rich Cardona Media (RCM), focusing on helping executives become more visible.Rich garnered a lot of attention through “The Leadership Locker” a Top 50 ranked podcast, in which influencers and industry leaders shared their insights, particularly aimed at helping transitioning service members and veteran entrepreneurs. He also achieved recognition for his subsequent show "NFTs for Newbies" which gained 1 Million downloads in less than 8 months.Rich creates long-term content strategies for high profile content creating CEOs to advance their brand and business visibility. Among many brand services, RCM offers video podcasting, video production, and content repurposing.The company’s approach to business and content creation is influenced by Rich's military background, with an emphasis on simplicity, urgency,and rigor—and serve leading with their core values;  the “ABCs” -  Accountability, Be Better and Clarity in Communication.Through an unwavering dedication to content creation and scaling, RCM has produced dramatic results for clients. Find Rich - https://www.richcardonamedia.com/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

My next guest has endured sexual assault, bullying, and retaliation in and out of the military.  She now shares her story to help others heal and make systemic change. I often observe people who have endured incredible hardships and become beacons of change. They seem gifted with a superpower to go against the tide, shining light in the darkest parts of society, places most prefer to stay hidden. Her story is one of many overarching themes—how powerful people silence others, how she fights against the system for what she believes is just, and how she sets an example for others and her children. Master Sergeant Crystal C. Romero retired after serving 16 1⁄2 years in the US Army National Guard, serving full-time Active-Duty Operational Support primarily in her home state of New Mexico. Today, she is an activist for veterans’ causes and has had a significant role in passing legislation related to military sexual assault and veterans’ mental health.  Crystal obtained four Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), held various positions, and successfully ran many programs, such as the DoD Innovative Readiness Training Program, throughout her military career, beginning in logistics and later transferring to a Public Affairs Detachment. She then transitioned to the 64th Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Specialist. There, she helped run operations and was activated for the Space Shuttle Columbia recovery efforts in 2003 and Hurricane Katrina, Rita, and Ike. Concurrently, she served with the New Mexico Counter Narcotics Task Force, serving as the Finance and Executive Assistant to the commander. In her final years in the military, she was a Senior Human Resources Specialist, Platoon Sergeant, Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, member of the Safety Council, National Guard Bureau Counterdrug Program Evaluation team member, and the Joint Substance Abuse Program Coordinator for the State of New Mexico where she ran the drug testing program for all National Guard service members.  After her honorable discharge in 2014, Crystal struggled to adjust to civilian life and found herself battling depression and PTSD. That struggle prompted her to volunteer to help other veterans, presumably worse off than her. This was her path to redemption and how she plans to make her mark in the veteran community through advocacy. SheVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

My next guest has been on a mission to bridge the gap between generations who serve the Armed Forces. Through her painstakingly detailed analysis, she has uncovered findings that contextualize the problems service members face in so many arenas. Join us as we unpack some of the larger cultural forces impacting our troops and ways we can better understand one another. Corie Weathers, licensed professional counselor (LPC), is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and award-winning author of Military Culture Shift: The Impact of War, Money & Generational Perspective on Morale, Retention & Leadership and Sacred Spaces: My Journey to the Heart of Military Marriage.Corie has focused her career for the last 20 years as a clinician specializing in marriage, the military culture, special forces, and leadership development. She has traveled internationally to visit troops and report on deployment conditions and has taught service families across the globe. In addition to providing subject matter expertise on military culture, Corie consults organizations and institutions on building trust, creating impactful programming, and working within a multi-generational team. Her advocacy has included being a part of Second Lady Karen Pence’s Military Spouse’sEmployment Working Group and contributing to passing a Congressional Bill for licensure portability.Find Corie - https://www.corieweathers.com/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

I believe the biggest fight comes from wrestling with the demons inside us - those past unhealed traumas. My next guest is a former shipmate I served with during a very stressful carrier tour, which has now transformed his life. He has created a holistic environment around him based on the hard work we must all do when we suffer. Dave Snell is a retired Navy Cryptologist who spent the majority of his career focused on the Pacific theater but enjoyed deployments to the European theater and multiple deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Philippines. Relatively early in his career, Dave began dealing with depression and anxiety.  It got so bad that he saw suicide as the only option. He did not talk about the subject with many of his peers because of fear of stigma and the lack of opportunities presented to him in his career.  He was able to continue his career with a second tour at the National Security Agency, followed by the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Special Operations Command, Pacific where he could again deploy to the Afghanistan theater after a deployment to the Philippines. After his naval career, Dave went into industry conducting risk management assessments of Fortune 500 company cybersecurity programs to ensure they met different regulatory requirements.  And yet, he could not shake the traumas.  The traumas began adding up and he eventually found himself in therapy again, and again, and again.  Finally, the pandemic offered an extreme period of self-reflection for Dave and he found a means of getting beyond his traumas and associated depression and anxiety.  Dave found that Movement, Mind, Meditation, and Meaning were four areas he was able to integrate to ensure that he kept the depression and anxiety at bay. Having lost a lot of weight during the pandemic, Dave focused on a near 30-year goal of running the Marine Corps Marathon and eventually did in 2022 and again in 2023.  These marathons culminated in working through the 4Ms and putting them into action when things during the races didn’t go as planned.  And yet, he was able to make it through both and looks forward to doing more in the coming years. Today, Dave is a security consultant, combining his experiences in cybersecurity, intelligence, and private investigations to help companies protect their critical information and infrastructure from internal and external threats.  Simultaneously, Dave has continued his service, shaVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

I always love learning from people who do hard things. They show us how to overcome life’s setbacks. As a fighter pilot, carrier commanding officer, and Strike Group commander, he worked in the world’s highest-stress jobs.  Find out how he stayed calm under immense pressure to inspire many people in this show. We’ll also discuss how you can get momentum to achieve your goal. Retired Rear Admiral Mike Manazir served in the United States Navy for thirty-six years, retiring in July 2017, joining The Boeing Company in September 2017. Mike is a Vice President with Boeing, headquartered in Washington, DC.In the US Navy, Mike was trained as a naval aviator and ship captain, flying 3,750 fighter hours in the F-14 Tomcat and F-18 Super Hornet. Mike has 1,240 arrested landings on different aircraft carriers with fifteen overseas deployments. Mike is a graduate of TOP GUN.During ever-increasing leadership responsibilities, leading 350 people to more than ten thousand, Mike commanded a Navy fighter squadron, a supply ship, the aircraft carrier, USS NIMITZ, and Carrier Strike Group EIGHT, embarked in USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER.Mike is the best-selling author of Learn How To Lead To Win, thirty-three powerful stories of leadership and learning; Mike’s Maxims, a companion to the Lead To Win book, and two short e-books about fate and trust. All can be found on Amazon and other retail outlets. Mike also authors a weekly newsletter on discrete leadership topics. Visit Mike at www.mikemanazir.comVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

In this video, I address the prevailing narrative that there are only victims and perpetrators. However, I believe the issues are much more complex than that. It’s time we have a conversation about this.Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

I first saw Tim’s work when he represented retired Navy Seal Eddie Gallagher. Gallagher was accused of 10 UCMJ offenses while serving in a war zone. During this period, I never saw a team so adeptly defend themselves against charges within the military justice system. Later, he represented Stuart Scheller. Scheller spoke out on the Afghanistan withdrawal and faced time in the brig for his offenses. Again, this same professionalism was on full display throughout this public ordeal. Timothy Parlatore is the founder and Managing Partner of Parlatore Law Group. He is a nationally recognized attorney who practices criminal defense and civil litigation. Throughout his career, Mr. Parlatore has avoided pigeonholing himself into representing only certain types of clients or cases in favor of maintaining an interesting and eclectic portfolio of cases.  He initially rose to prominence through his representations of the former Police Commissioner of New York City, the men who parachuted from the World Trade Center, and organized crime figures. Though already well-known, he skyrocketed to worldwide recognition through his successful defense of Navy SEAL Edward Gallagher in the most significant war crimes trial in the history of the U.S. Navy.  He has gone on to represent several significant and high-ranking current and former government officials including state and federal legislators, a former state governor, a mayor, a 4-star Admiral, and even a former U.S. President.  Though he enjoys representing political figures, he is rigid in his focus on the facts, evidence, and the law, as opposed to politics, and is equally comfortable representing people on both sides of the political aisle.While he is known for handling cases in the spotlight, he does not seek it and his preference is to handle cases quietly, without any headlines, to protect his clients’ images and reputations. Mr. Parlatore’s career path began by working for smaller criminal firms in New York City. It was there that he had the opportunity to work with and learn directly from several iconic defense attorneys, before running a successful solo practice.Mr. Parlatore has been recognized by several organizations for his accomplishments. He is a regular commentator on CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC.In addition to his remarkable legal experience, Mr. Parlatore is heavily influenced by his military background as a former Naval Officer and veVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Without psychological safety, organizations fail. Yet the mainstream narrative has tried to destroy this idea, calling anybody who fosters inclusivity “woke” “weak” and getting an unfair advantage. We’ll discuss this concept, breaking down what these terms mean and why your organization's success depends on embracing them. Dr. Zakiya O. Mabery, is an author, international speaker, independent consultant who helps businesses, colleges, universities, and communities design programs that address mental health, diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, (DEIA) in addition to social justice issues. Her expert opinion is frequently sought after by the media, the federal government, the United States military, and professional organizations. Dr. Mabery is well-known for initiative programs that address mental health issues, overcoming adversity, bias, inclusive leadership, intersectionality, psychological safety, and bystander intervention.Find Zakiya here - https://www.thezakiyamabery.com/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

My next guest uses the power of language to speak out against systemic problems facing the Armed Services, with a steadfast dedication to shedding light in dark places. A consummate professional, her voice has led to far-reaching action, consistently delivering her points with respect and reverence for the organizations she’s calling on for change. She sets the example by supporting her positions with compelling arguments and factual information. K. Denis Rucker Krepp is an Army brat who started her career as a Coast Guard officer. She then served as a Transportation Security Administration attorney, Congressional staffer, federal agency chief counsel, adjunct professor, private sector lobbyist, and locally elected DC official. Krepp is currently the DC Ambassador for the Military Women’s Memorial and a National Maritime Historical Society Trustee.Krepp uses her voice and pen to advocate for sexual assault survivors.Find her here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-denise-rucker-krepp-61273a47?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

I believe the biggest roadblock to personal growth is getting in our way. Be that through endlessly questioning ourselves, sabotaging an opportunity to stay comfortable, or letting fear take over. My guest this week fought for her happiness, divorcing, changing careers, and now living with her purpose of helping others. She is now on a mission to assist you in doing the same. Christy Holt is a self-proclaimed Happiness Hussy, adventure guide, podcast host (Create Your Happy, inspiration for conscious women, available wherever you listen to podcasts), and international best-selling author (Unstuck For Women, available on Amazon) who loves to show people how to get out of survival mode so that they can consciously create the happy life, relationships, and impact they desire. Christy mentors whole-ass humans — using her signature CREATE method, she journeys alongside her soul-led clients to support and love them as they discover and unlearn. Christy’s mentorship helps her clients to connect with their soul-aligned desires and become unf*ckwithable so that nothing stops them from making the massive impact they are meant to create!Website: www.coachchristyholt.comBook: http://www.gtfu.caPodcast https://lnkd.in/eMVSjmRhFacebook: https://lnkd.in/eqftZDqgVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Imagine taking the worst tragedy a parent can live through and using that story to inspire others and help them through their pain?That’s exactly what my next guest’s life work is now all about after her son was killed while serving in Afghanistan. Join us as we discuss the profound impact this experience had on her family and how she has transformed others' lives through the power of storytelling. Holly is the Gold Star Ambassador/Liaison to Families of the Fallen and a Storytelling Coach for The Heroes Journey. She is a Gold Star Mom whose 23-year-old son, SrA Daniel J Johnson, was KIA on Oct. 5, 2010, in Kandahar Province, Dand District, Afghanistan. Her son Danny was an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Technician in the United States Air Force. His traumatic and tragic death sent her on a spiritual journey of growth with grief as her companion. She has discovered that grief is not something harmful to avoid, that drags us down.Instead, Holly looks at grief as a gift that assists us in mourning our loved ones and can teach us and give us spiritual gifts. Some surprising gifts grief has given Holly are greater purpose and meaning, unshakable peace and faith, more profound appreciation, and increased joy for what remains in her life.Holly is a wife, a mom of seven, and a granny of eight. Professionally, she worked as a Registered Nurse and a Social Worker in the mental health field for over 20 years. As a Social Worker, Holly primarily worked as a Forensic Specialist for those who were found not guilty because of mental disease or defect. She also Supervised Drug Court for Women in Dane County WI, and in her last professional position, Holly was the Director of a Homeless Shelter for Women in Madison, WIHolly’s son’s courage, patriotism, integrity, and passion inspire her every day to be a person worthy of all that he sacrificed for the country he loved enough to die for. Daniel is her inspiration and her hero.Last Man Out Play - https://lastoutplay.com/Storytelling workshops - https://theheroesjourney.org/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Where do you turn when your organization commits fraud, waste, or abuse? How do you cope with retaliation after you decide to speak up? Being a whistleblower is one of the most traumatic experiences in one’s life. It can often lead people into a dark depression or even to consider suicide. Fortunately, resources are available, and trained professionals can assist should one decide to “blow the whistle.” My next guest is one of them. Ms. Garrick founded Whistleblowers of America (WoA) as a nonprofit in 2017, providing voluntary peer support to those suffering workplace trauma. She developed the Whistleblower Retaliation Checklist© (WRC) to identify negative psychosocial impacts on victimized employees and provide forensic testimony. Over the last few years, Professor Garrick has taught for the University of Southern California School of Social Work and has supervised interns from the University of West Florida. She is also the founder of the Workplace Promise Institute, which opened in Pensacola, FL, in 2021, the annual conference WoA hosts.Previously, she served as a US Army Officer and in executive positions at the American Legion and the Departments of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Defense (DoD) and with the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. Her areas of expertise include policy and program development for disabled veterans/wounded warriors, whistleblower mental health, suicide prevention, and organizational leadership development. She is a recognized public servant who has received awards from several distinguished organizations. She founded the FAR Group, which provides consultation to public and private organizations that need development, advocacy, and educational support.Ms. Garrick is a published author, media source, and international public speaker. She has also worked on projects in the former Soviet Union, for the US military in Germany and Afghanistan, and for the World Health Organization in Switzerland. She has been an invited speaker in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Israel because of her co-authored book, The Psychosocial Impacts of Whistleblower Retaliation.She is a social work master’s graduate from Temple University with additional training at Johns Hopkins and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.  She is a licensed social worker (LCSW-C) in MD. She is credentialed through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP), a Board-Certified Expert in TraumatiVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Today, I share three random acts of kindness and ask for your feedback. I have scheduled a future podcast episode with my dear friend Ryan Sweazy. We will turn the tables, and I will be the interviewee.  Find out my motivation behind sharing Stories of Service, what makes me tick, particularly featuring those agents of change. Do I have an ax to grind, or is there a deeper reason behind my work? Moreover, you get to ask me anything you want. Nothing is off-limits. So, please leave your questions in the comments section below or via my social media profiles. As with all my shows, the interview will be live, unscripted, unredacted, and always authentic. Thanks, everyone!My chat with the Sultan of Slowjamistan - https://www.youtube.com/live/Da2Hxb0Zlk8?si=LrrARTUjUaLTYWduVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Climbing the Army ranks from enlisted to Lieutenant Colonel with a tapestry of rich life experiences; I am honored to have Francesca Graham on the S.O.S. podcast. Join me as I discuss Francesca’s diverse Army career and how she overcame multiple obstacles to be the person you see today. Furthermore, we’ll discuss her formal complaint against a civilian SES supervisor, where, according to Graham, she endured sexual harassment, reprisal, and retaliation. Join us as we discuss what process takes place when one finds themselves faced with abusive behaviors and what actions you can take to protect yourself. Francesca enlisted in the Army at 17, just over 26 years ago. She is the daughter of two hardworking and loving parents, the sister to three incredible brothers, a United States Military Academy graduate, a senior jumpmaster, the holder of three master’s degrees, a strategic intelligence officer, and a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army. Her service in the Army offers her a life that makes her proud of her contributions to our nation. Find Francesca here -https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescagraham/Sign the petition to reform the DoD Investigative General System - https://www.change.org/p/creation-of-an-independent-inspector-general-outside-of-the-dodVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Think you can’t fix the system? My next guest embodies the warfighter spirit.  Meet Chris McGhee. A man who took on the defense industry inspired by his own survival story enduring a toxic work environment. Chris McGhee enlisted in the Air Force, fixing fighter jets in the Air Force rising to the top of the enlisted ranks. After leaving the Air Force, he embarked on a law career and began his advocacy journey to tackle command climate issues using his blog, podcast, and FOIA requests. Working with his State Senator, his efforts after three years of dogged persistence led to a DoD-wide study in the 2023 NDAA to help tackle the problem of suicides. Join me as we discover how he did it and what’s next for this incredible change agent.  Chris McGhee is a VA disability attorney and former Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force whose life epitomizes resilience and dedication to advocacy. Overcoming challenges in his early years, Chris forged a path of service and transformation. His 20-year military tenure, primarily as an aircraft mechanic, sharpened his leadership and technical skills while instilling a deep awareness of systemic issues within the military. This awareness fueled his commitment to advocacy and systemic reform, a theme that has been a constant in his professional journey.After retiring from the Air Force, Chris pursued a career in law, advocating for veterans and servicemembers. He recently founded Falcon Forward Law Group, where he continues to dedicate his efforts to championing the rights of those who have served. Additionally, through his "20 Years Done" blog and podcast, Chris addresses critical issues in military culture, mental health, and systemic changes. His advocacy achievements include successfully lobbying for a study of military suicides by job code, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of impactful change. Chris's transition from military service to founding his law firm reflects his enduring commitment to advocacy and making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans and service members. Find Chris here - https://www.fafo-law.com/Chris 20 years and done blog - http://www.20yearsdone.com/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Military influencers are the new truth tellers, often acting as citizen journalists covering stories the mainstream media won’t. Join me we dig deep into the issues our most junior troops and veterans care the most about. Nicky MGTV breaks the stories around the Internet and beyond with humor, analysis and a healthy sense of humor for the absurd. Join us as we discuss social media policies, COVID mandates, the many calls for accountability of our senior leaders, forever wars and so much more. Nick McClellan has been a notable military commentary content creator for the past 7 years with a primary focus on video content creation. Most of the topics he covers include military culture, social issues, and military policy. He has been a US Navy sailor for the past 15 years as a Hospital Corpsman. He specialized the last six years as an Independent Duty Corpsman seeing patients and performing duties as a primary care provider. He has been recognized and was awarded the 2019 Military Youtuber of the Year. He has a Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration.Nicky MGTV - https://www.youtube.com/@NICKYMGTVVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

At the age of 11, Jose was sent on a 2,000-mile, month-long journey through three countries to come to America. He left behind the only family he ever knew to escape conscription in the Nicaraguan military and have a chance at a better life. This is one of those stories that illustrates why I started this podcast. It’s about overcoming immeasurable odds and making things happen no matter what life throws at us. Lieutenant Colonel (LtCol) Jose L. Montalvan, originally from Nicaragua, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1995 from his adopted home of Hialeah, FL. He graduated from the Broadened Opportunity for Officer Selection and Training Program in 2000. Upon graduation, he was selected for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program. LtCol Montalvan attended Florida State University as part of the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Criminology. LtCol Montalvan was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 2002.As a company grade officer, LtCol Montalvan served as the Motor Transport and Assistant Logistics Officer for the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, where he deployed to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. He subsequently served as the Executive and Operations Officer for Recruiting Station Albuquerque, NM. As a field grade officer, LtCol Montalvan was the Expeditionary Branch Officer-In-Charge at the Marine Corps Logistics Operations Group. He then completed his Joint tour at Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense, United States Strategic Command, where he served as an Integrated Missile Defense Watch Commander and later as the Global Ballistic Missile Defense Training, Education, and Exercise Director. Upon completing his Joint tour, LtCol Montalvan served as the 6th Marine Corps District Recruiting Operations Officer. LtCol Montalvan is currently the Assistant Chief of Staff G-4 for Marine Forces Japan.He is the recipient of numerous awards and volunteers himself in countless civic organizations, most notably the Association of Naval Services Officers, where he is currently the President and Marine Corps service representative.More on Jose and ANSO - https://www.ansomil.org/Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Think you can’t fix your life? It's not easy. However, Mike shows how it’s possible even when you have been struggling with the most difficult experiences. His life is an inspiration. I was so struck by his ability to capture such hardships with vulnerable rawness but in a resilient and powerful manner. I knew he’d have a big impact on anyone who listens. Not many men I know can share this way while staying strong and grounded. Tune in and see what I mean. Mike Ergo was raised in Walnut Creek and attended Northgate High School. He served in the Marine Corps infantry from 2001-2005 and deployed to Iraq twice. After returning home, he found meaning and fulfillment in endurance sports and events. He has been involved in endurance sports and has completed 4 full Ironman triathlons, including the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, in 2017. He will return to Kona in October of 2023 to compete once again. Mike now carries an American flag each Ironman in honor of a Gold Star Family and their fallen son or daughter. He lives in Petaluma with his wife and two children. Mike is the director of the North Bay Vet Center, a VA mental health counseling center for combat veterans and victims of military sexual trauma. More on Mike - https://medium.com/military-transition/my-transition-40-mike-ergo-marine-infantry-to-vet-center-counselor-dd6dc2552c16Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

I recorded this last time we were in Portugal as I reflected on the holidays and how so many of us are not with our families around this time, especially those in the military. It’s a bit long at eight minutes, but if you are struggling this season, I hope the words can inspire you and bring peace and comfort. Happy holidays, everyone. Take care of yourselves (and each other).Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76