Shows
The Burton Experience PodcastGame Changers with Blain Smothermon and Albert SolisIn this inspiring episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we sit down with Blain Smothermon, District Athletic Director and ELOP Coordinator, and Albert Solis, PE teacher at Burton Middle School. These two passionate educators share their personal journeys through sports — from the life lessons learned on the field to how athletics shaped who they are today. Blain and Albert dive into how their love for sports fuels their work with students, creating opportunities for growth, discipline, teamwork, and leadership across the district. Discover how they’re using their experiences to build programs that not only strengthen physical fitne...2025-05-0336 min
Quest for SuccessKurt Takahashi | Coaching Beyond the Diamond: Cultivating Champions in Baseball and LifeJoin the conversation with California's High School Baseball Coach of the Year, Kurt Takahashi, as he steps up to the podcast plate to share his extraordinary journey from the youthful fields of glory to the dugouts of mentorship. Discover the invaluable lessons of routine, mental preparation, and consistency that Kurt imparts, reflecting on his days under the sun with the San Francisco Giants and how stepping back from the batter's box led him to cultivate the next generation of champions. With humble beginnings, a rise through the minor leagues, and an inspiring state championship story, Kurt's narrative is a...2024-01-121h 23
Quest for SuccessVictor Leva | From NFL Glory to Coaching Future Stars: A Tale of Passion, Mentorship, and Life Lessons from the GridironVictor Leva's legacy reaches far beyond the football field, and as we welcome him to our podcast, he shares a lifetime of wisdom from his journey as an NFL player to a coach and Highway Patrol Officer. The heartbeat of his story is the dedication to the sport and the relentless spirit he champions, serving both as a guide to young athletes and a testament to the power of passion. As he reminisces about the influence of sports titans like Pat Tillman and Tom Brady, Victor's narrative becomes a playbook for success, full of strategies for not just winning...2023-12-291h 02Quest for SuccessAJ Watts | Athletic Director at Porterville Unified School District: Building a Winning Mentality in SportsWhen you think athletics, you think competition, resilience, discipline, and above all, the thrill of the game. Our chat with AJ Watts, the Athletic Director at Porterville Unified School District, encapsulates all of this and much more. AJ is no stranger to the pulse-pounding world of sports, boasting a career filled with unforgettable moments, victories, and lessons learned both on and off the field. From being an admirer of baseball great Ryan Sandberg to coaching a championship-winning team, AJ's journey is an inspiring tale of passion and dedication.Imagine standing at the helm of a struggling team...2023-12-151h 20
Quest for SuccessDavid Shimer | Superintendent of Burton Schools: A Profound Discussion on Leadership, Technology, and the Future of EducationWhat happens when you put a visionary superintendent, a technology pioneer and a fervent advocate for education in the same room? You get an enlightening conversation with David Shimer, the superintendent of Burton Schools, who has seen the transformative power of technology in the education field. In this riveting conversation, David takes us through his journey, from the inception of computer labs to the successful implementation of a one-to-one device program. He unpacks the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the immense satisfaction of seeing students flourish with these integrated tools.David also dives deep into the...2023-12-011h 36Quest for SuccessAlia Alvarez | Head Coach of the Porterville College Women's Basketball Program: A Fresh Perspective on Basketball, Personal Growth, and the Power of Parental Support in AthleticsWhat if a fresh perspective on the game of basketball could change the trajectory of your sports career? This enlightening episode with our guest, Alia Alvarez, Head Coach of the Porterville College Women's Basketball Program, promises to do just that! Alia’s unique coaching philosophy, her transition to coaching, her relentless determination, and her mission-focused approach to take her players to the next level are nothing short of inspiring. This isn’t your usual sports commentary. Alia is candid about her frustrations with lack of basketball IQ among players and the diminishing importance given to secondary defense. Her a...2023-10-201h 12Quest for SuccessJacob Wright | 4x NCAA Wrestling Tournament Qualifier at The University of Wyoming and Fresno State: Unwrapping the Journey to Elite Wrestling and the Vision to Shape Future ChampionsGet ready to grapple with the intricacies of wrestling as we engage in an intense conversation with Jacob Wright, a four-time NCAA Wrestling Qualifier at the University of Wyoming and Fresno State and the proud owner of Wright Wrestling Academy. If you've always wondered what it takes to reach the pinnacle of wrestling, Jacob's insights, drawn from a lifetime of dedication to the sport, promise to illuminate the path to success. Wrestling, for Jacob, is more than a sport; it's a discipline that shapes individuals, and you'll learn just how it does that.The narrative takes us...2023-10-061h 04Quest for SuccessMauricio Mejia | BJJ Black Belt and Muay Thai Kickboxing Instructor: Unveiling the Power of Jiu-Jitsu in Personal Development and Community BuildingEver feel like you're stuck in a rut and need some fresh and invigorating inspiration? Join us as we sit down with the exceptional martial artist and instructor, Mauricio Mejia, who not only holds a black belt in Jiu Jitsu but has honed his skills in the disciplines of Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. Together, we trace the lineage of the black belt, celebrate the growth of the Elite Team, and engage in a lively debate about the top three greatest martial artists of all time. As the conversation flows, we venture into the astounding potential nestled w...2023-09-222h 01Quest for SuccessRudy Ramirez | IFBB Classic Physique Pro Bodybuilder: An Intimate Exploration into the World of Competitive BodybuildingMeet IFBB Classic Physique Professional Bodybuilder, Rudy Ramirez, as he takes us through a captivating journey of the bodybuilding world. From a young admirer of Arnold Schwarzenegger to a certified professional, Rudy inspires with his tales of triumph, challenge, and resilience. He unravels the mystery surrounding bodybuilding, debunking myths, shedding light on his favorite exercises, and sharing the importance of conditioning and nutrition for success in this field.Join us as Rudy uncovers the grit and determination required for competitive bodybuilding. He delves into the rigorous process of preparation for competitions, stage presentation, and the critical role...2023-09-081h 34Quest for SuccessSteve Cox | A journey to the Major Leagues: A Candid Dive into the Life and Baseball Career of Steve CoxWhat would you do if you had the chance to sit down with a former professional baseball player and dive deep into their journey? You don't have to imagine, because that's exactly what we're serving up in our latest episode with Steve Cox. From his early days at Monache High School to playing at the highest levels of professional baseball, Steve gives us an insider's look into his impressive journey. He reveals the intense pressure of decision-making during his high school senior year, his experience being drafted in the fifth round, and the challenges of minor league baseball.2023-08-251h 22
Quest for SuccessBear Pascoe | From the Super Bowl to Rodeo: The Unyielding Spirit and Athletic Journey of Bear PascoeFrom the gridiron to the rodeo arena, former Super Bowl champion and rodeo athlete Bear Pasco's journey is a testament to the unyielding resolve of the human spirit. Our conversation delves into the role of quality coaching in the world of sport and how it has been a cornerstone of Bear's successful athletic career. Through the lens of his personal experiences, Bear highlights the critical importance of technique, fairness, respect, and integrity in coaching, reiterating the profound impact his own mentors had on his development as an athlete.Embark on this riveting journey as Bear takes us...2023-08-111h 26Quest for SuccessQuest for Success Season Finale | Season One Recap w/ Blain Smothermon & Zac Aguilar |Season Finale! The Final episode of Season 1 of the Quest for Success Podcast. Hosts @zac5aguilar & @blain6 sit down to recap season 1, talk about how Quest for Success all started and what’s to come for season 2 and beyond. Some big announcements will come out in this epsiode including a Quest merch drop, guests for season 2 and much more. We want to thank each and every one of you who has supported this project. We couldn’t keep this operation going at the quality we have without your tremendous support, from sharing our content, to listening or watching each epis...2022-09-071h 05Quest for SuccessEbony Madrid-Brown | Professional Soccer Player | Astra Hungary FCEbony Madrid-Brown is a professional international soccer player who recently signed to play in Hungary for Astra Hungary FC. Coming from a military family, Ebony moved and lived all over the world, including in South Korea, Germany and Hawaii. She would receive many awards which included Stars and Stripes Athlete of the Year, Osan Korea Athlete of the Year and the Ramstein, Germany Athlete of the Year. Ebony would eventually receive a scholarship offer to play at Hawaii Pacific University where as a Senior Madrid would be named the PacWest Conference Player of the Year. She was also named F...2022-08-2454 minQuest for SuccessJoe Soto | Former UFC Fighter and MMA Champion“Quest for Success Podcast” w/former @ufc fighter and @bellatormma champion Joe Soto (@joesoto135). We had a great time sitting down and talking to Joe about his childhood growing up, wrestling career, fighting in the UFC, being roommates with Jon Jones and Colby Covington.—Joe Soto fought at the bantamweight division in the UFC. A professional competitor since 2006, Soto has also formerly competed for Bellator Fighting Championships, where he was the inaugural Bellator Featherweight World Champion and first ever winner of their Featherweight Tournament, and for Tachi Palace Fights where he is the former Tachi Palace...2022-08-101h 40
The Freedom First Podcast#37 - Amberley Snyder | Tragedy to TriumphTragedy to triumph! Episode 37 w/ Champion Barrel Racer @amberleysnyder —Amberley Snyder is a championship barrel racer. She also competed in pole bending and breakaway roping. In 2010, Snyder suffered a car crash that paralyzed her from the waist down. She adapted to the injury and kept competing. Amberley’s father, Cory Snyder was a Major League Baseball player with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Indians, Giants, Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago White Sox. In 2019, Netflix released the film Walk Ride Rodeo, a biopic based on her life that has reached over 350 million wordwide. Amberley returned to the screen in 2...2022-08-0535 minQuest for SuccessTiffanie Yabut | Women's Head Golf Coach & Founder of the ImpacTour Golf TourThe “Quest for Success Podcast” w/ Cal State Bakersfield Women’s Head Golf Coach Tiffanie Yabut (@tiffanie_yabut) who is the founder of the @impactourgolf and an LPGA Professionals Member. It was a great pleasure having Tiffanie on the show to talk about her journey, golf career, being a head golf coach and her new journey with her Non Profit. Tiffanie is an amazing person who makes those around her better. She is the definition of what a great leader and role model should be. —Tiffanie Yabut is in her second season as Head Coach of the C...2022-07-271h 04The Freedom First Podcast36 - Christy Martin | The Fight for Her Life | The Life and Near death of Champion Boxer Christy MartinDescribed as one of the most influential female boxers of all time, helping legitimize women’s participation in the sport, Christy Martin shocked the world by becoming a superstar after winning a blood-soaked undercard match at the Mike Tyson/Frank Bruno fight in 1996. Christy Martin was a trailblazer as the first great female boxing champ. But her life outside the ring may be even more inspirational. After her meteoric rise, Christy’s had an incredible fight for survival both in and out of the ring as she battled substance abuse, domestic violence and a harrowing brush with death. We also...2022-07-2151 minQuest for SuccessSteve Brown | The All AmericanWe sat down and had a great conversation with Steve Brown, the Oregon State Hall of Famer and former All American Linebacker. We discussed Steve’s early childhood, work ethic, lifting weights, his playing days and what motivates him to continue coaching today! Steve Brown is a man’s man who lives and breaths football, but more importantly a man of faith, family and service! —Steve Brown, a 1969 Porterville High graduate and a member of the Porterville High Athletic Hall of Fame. He’s also a member of the Oregon State Athletic Hall of Fame. During h...2022-07-131h 18Quest for SuccessZhanique Lovett | The Ultimate American Ninja WarriorAre you an American Ninja Warrior fan? Zhanique Lovett (Zee) is the ultimate Ninja Warrior! We got to sit down with Zhanique Lovett (Zee) and had a great conversation with the American Ninja Warrior competitor. We learned a lot about her early childhood and perseverance to overcome many obstacles in throughout her life, experience on America Ninja Warrior, being vegan, mother, and an absolute beast of a human being. She is the ultimate Ninja Warrior! Zhanique is a personal trainer who first competed in Los Angeles in American Ninja Warrior 9. She has since been on 4 seasons of American Ninja...2022-06-291h 13Quest for SuccessJim Short | Former University of Nevada Football Standout, High School Teacher & CoachGrateful and humbled to announce Episode 4 of the “Quest for Success Podcast” w/ the great Jim Short. We caught up with Jim and had an absolutely incredible and humbling conversation with the former @nevadafootball standout, High School Teacher, coach and one of the greatest, most humble men you’ll ever meet. We call him coach, teacher, friend and a role model.—Jim Short grew up in the small town of Poplar, California. When Jim entered Monache High School in 1977, his childhood friend Jeff Brown was already blazing the sports trail, so Jim did what Jeff had, and...2022-06-151h 33Quest for SuccessRob Haynes | Fresno City College Men's Basketball Head Coach & College ProfessorEpisode 3 of the “Quest for Success Podcast” w/ @fresnocitycollege Head Mens Basketball Coach @rob81_04. We had an eye opening and deep conversation with Coach Haynes about growing up, his journey, playing career, coaching career and lessons learned along the way. —Rob Haynes is the head men’s basketball coach and professor at Fresno City College. Haynes previously served as head coach @portervillecollege . Rob Haynes inspires his fellow staff members and commands a presence in any basketball arena he enters. In addition, he is strongly committed to his family and community. In 7 seasons at Porterville, Haynes was know...2022-06-012h 02Quest for SuccessZack Grasmick | Small Town Hoops to Big Time SuccessEpisode 2 of the “Quest for Success Podcast” w/ Cal State Bakersfield Women’s Basketball coach and former CSUB basketball standout Zack Grasmick (@zgrasmick). We had a great conversation with Zack about his childhood, playing career, coaching career and what it takes to succeed and get recruited at the next level. —Zack Grasmick journey to success began at Granite Hills High School in Porterville, CA & continued on to Cal State Bakersfield where he will begin his 11th season as an assistant coach on the CSU Bakersfield women’s basketball coaching staff in the Fall of the 2022. Grasmick moved over...2022-05-181h 18Quest for SuccessTim Vanni | 2x Olympian, Team USA WrestlingWe are thrilled to announce the release of Episode 1 of the “Quest for Success Podcast” with 2x Olympic Wrestler Tim Vanni. We had an amazing conversation with this absolute legendary man, one of the all time greats, the one and only Mr. Tim Vanni! Tim Vanni is a two-time U.S. Olympic wrestler. He finished fourth in the '88 Games in Seoul and fifth in the '92 Games in Barcelona. Vanni also has six world championships placings, and is a five-time Senior U.S. national champion. He is currently a physical education teacher and wrestling coach for Porter...2022-05-042h 02The Freedom First Podcast#35 - Joe Roberts | Skid Row to CEOJoe Roberts known as the "Skidrow CEO" is a Canadian motivational speaker, author, youth homelessness advocate and co-founder of The Push for Change Foundation. Roberts experienced drug addiction and chronic homelessness as a youth and entered drug treatment in 1991. Roberts worked in sales and web development before he became an inspirational keynote speaker. Roberts is the author of four books.What is most amazing about Joe is that in 1989 he was living on the streets of Vancouver as a homeless skid row addict. Through perseverance, determination and his resilient human spirit, Joe pulled himself out of the...2022-04-281h 12Quest for SuccessQuest for Success TrailerQuest for Success Podcast hosted by Gym Owner and Trainer Zac Aguilar and Educator, coach, and Athletic Director Blain Smothermon. Sharing stories of people on the quest for success. Support the showQuest for Success Links | https://linktr.ee/questforsuccess2022-04-2100 minThe Freedom First Podcast#34 - Leslie Morgan Steiner | Crazy Love: Why victims stay with their abusers, finding the courage to leave and break the silenceLeslie Morgan Steiner is a domestic violence survivor, New York Times best-selling author ,columnist for The Washington Post, consultant and thought leader on women’s leadership, work-life balance, inspirational parenting, overcoming adversity and surviving violence against women. Her corporate experience includes The Washington Post, Johnson & Johnson, Leo Burnett and Seventeen Magazine. In 2009 Her memoir about surviving domestic violence, Crazy Love, was a New York Times bestseller, People Pick, Book of the Week for The Week magazine, and subject of the first TED Talk by a domestic violence survivor. She also spe...2022-04-071h 00The Freedom First Podcast#33 - Mary Crocker | Author of "Unveiling Alice" | The power of owning itEpisode 33 with writer and author of "Unveiling Alice" Mary Crocker (@marycrocker)—Mary Crocker has a zest for life that has led her to experiences filled with adventure, excitement, chaos and heartbreak. Her go getter spirit lights up the room, gets the job done, and produces results.As a sales training manager, her passions are centered around helping others reach their full potential. When she isn’t helping colleagues crush sales quotas, you can find her running the streets, talking fashion with friends, traveling with family, or enjoying a spic...2022-03-171h 02The Freedom First Podcast#32 - Jeff Gum | Former Navy Seal and founder of Sunga Life SwimwearEP 32 Now Available w/ former Navy Seal and founder of Sunga Life swimwear company Jeff Gum (@Jeffgum)—Jeff Gum is a Navy Seal and founder of Sunga Life Swimwear. He was a part of Seal Team 5 where he deployed to Fallujah Iraq, was selected for the Navy SEAL Breacher and Sniper Schools and worked with the Secret Service.In 2015, Jeff began his transition out of the Navy by participating in The Honor Foundation’s 120 hours of Executive Education at UCSD Rady School of Management. The program inspired him to launch his own swimwear line part...2022-03-041h 21The Freedom First Podcast#31 - Dr. Donnelly Wilkes | A Doctor at WarA Doctor at War! @docwilkes1 —Our guest is a Medical Doctor and a California native. Dr. Donnelly Wilkes is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine, and his medical degree from Tulane School of Medicine on a full Navy Scholarship. Following medical school, he was commissioned in the U.S. Navy, completed residency training in family medicine at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, and served seven years on active duty. He served two combat tours in Iraq in 2004 and 2008 and was awarded the...2022-02-171h 01The Freedom First Podcast#30 - Kaj Larsen & Sean Bonner | Financial FreedomEpisode 030 w/ @kajlarsen & @seanbonnerusa—On this episode we are joined by the founders of @guild_financial , US Navy Seal Kaj Larsen and Navy Intelligence Officer Sean Bonner. Kaj Larsen is a US Navy Seal, award winning Journalist, Harvard Graduate and owner of a @crossfitsantamonica . Sean Bonner is a Navy Intelligence Officer and former financial professional with extensive experience in the financial industry. Their new company, Guild Financial is a trusted investment platform inspiring the military community to secure financial freedom through training and education. On this episode we talk about both mens childhood growing up, mi...2022-02-041h 08The Freedom First Podcast#29 - Chris Likewise | They Call Him CoachEpisode 029 w/ Coach Chris Likewise—On this episode we sit down with football Coach Chris likewise in the studio. Coach Likewise has over 25+ years of coaching experience with stops at the high school level and as an assistant coach at Fresno State under Jim Sweeney. On this episode Likewise talks about his coaching journey, old school stories from the past, the life of a coach, Jim Sweeney and much more. FOLLOW THE FREEDOM FIRST PODCASTYOUTUBE | The Freedom First Podcast YouTubeINSTAGRAM | @freedomfirstusaTWITTER | https://twitter.com/fr...2022-01-271h 44The Freedom First Podcast#28 - Dennis Townsend | The ArchitectEpisode 028 w/ Dennis Townsend —Dennis Townsend is an Architect and the District 5 Supervisor. On this episode we discuss his upcoming election, childhood growing up, leadership, service, faith, wrestling, forest management, water, architecture and much more. Townsend’s District 5 includes Porterville, Springville, Terra Bella, Alpine, Ducor, Camp Nelson, California Hot Springs, Posey, Kennedy Meadows, Ponderosa, Sequoia Crest, and surrounding areas of southeast Tulare County. He was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2018. Supervisor Townsend is a licensed architect and owner of Townsend Architectural Group in Porterville. A graduate of Monache High School, Townsend was a stand...2022-01-131h 56The Freedom First Podcast#27 - Hollie McKay | Only Cry for the LivingEpisode 027 w/ @holliesmckay—Hollie McKay is an Australian born journalist who is a policy expert, correspondent, war crimes investigator, and best-selling author. She was an investigative and international affairs/war journalist for Fox News Digital for over fourteen years where she focused on warfare, terrorism, and crimes against humanity. in 2021 she founded international geopolitical risk and social responsibility firm McKay Global. Her latest book, Only Cry for the Living: Memos From Inside the ISIS Battlefield, is now available.Hollie has worked on the frontlines of several major war zones and covered humanitarian and di...2021-12-301h 09The Freedom First Podcast#26 - Chris Caulk | Former USC Wide Receiver, Walk on, defying the oddsEpisode 26 w/ @thechriscaulk—Chris Caulk is a former USC walk-on wide receiver who personifies the quality of tenacity. He defied the odds to become a member of the legendary USC football program whose story will help anyone who wants to achieve a goal. ••➡️Please subscribe and leave feedback on Apple Podcast. Let us know what you think about the podcast.Support the show2021-12-161h 19The Freedom First Podcast#25 - Adam CarollaEpisode 25 w/ @adamcarolla—Adam Carolla is an American radio personality, comedian, actor and podcaster. He hosts The Adam Carolla Show, a talk show distributed as a podcast which set the record as the "most downloaded podcast" as judged by Guinness World Records in 2011. Carolla is most known for co-hosting the syndicated radio call-in program Loveline with Dr.Drew Pinsky. He was the co-host and co-creator of the television program The Man Show (1999–2004), and the co-creator and a regular performer on the television show Crank Yankers (2002–2007, 2019–present). Carolla has also appeared on the network reality television programs...2021-10-2135 minThe Freedom First PodcastJoe Soto | UFC Fighter, Former Bellator Champion, Gym Owner, CA State Wrestling ChampionEpisode 24 w/ @joesoto135 —Joe Soto fought at the bantamweight division in the UFC. A professional competitor since 2006, Soto has also formerly competed for Bellator Fighting Championships, where he was the inaugural Bellator Featherweight World Champion and first ever winner of their Featherweight Tournament, and for Tachi Palace Fights where he is the former Tachi Palace Fights Bantamweight Champion.At the time Soto was born, the fourth son, his parents were struggling financially, with his father working as a garbage man and his mother as a house cleaner. Soto went to Porterville High School in Porterville, Ca...2021-09-301h 25The Freedom First PodcastAngélica Franganillo Díaz | The Truth about Cuba, the destruction of socialism and communism, Cuban-American, Defender of Freedom, JournalistIn this episode we sit down with Angélica Franganillo-Diaz who is a Political Science graduate from Florida International University. Before moving to Miami, Florida, Angélica studied at the University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez campus. Angélica considers herself a Puerto Rican-born-Cuban due to the enrichment of Cuban culture throughout her life. Her grandparents immigrated from Cuba in the 1970’s to Puerto Rico, the place where they had her mom and uncle. Angélica’s mother met her dad on one of her trips to Cuba with her grandmother. They fell in love, moved to Puerto Rico together...2021-09-161h 15The Freedom First PodcastRicardo "The Bully" Lamas | UFC Fighter, MMA Gym Owner, A voice for CubaRicardo Lamas is a retired Professional MMA Fighter who competed as a Featherweight in the UFC, with wins over current UFC lightweight Champion Charles Oliveria, Darren Elkins, Diego Sanchez, Cub Swanson and many more. He is the youngest of six brothers and was a college wrestler, earning All-American honors at the NCAA Division III Men's Wrestling Championships at 157 lbs. During his collegiate wrestling career (2001–2005), he racked up over 100 wins. Ricardo recently retired from the UFC in 2020 after his fight of the night win bonus over Bill Algeo. He currently runs and operates UFC Gym Naperville where he trains and co...2021-08-1956 min
That's How You Feel? PodcastTHYF? x Freedom First America - Back To School Backpack DriveTHYFAMILY!!
We made it to Episode 50! Want to thank all of our supporters, whether you've been here since day 1 or just listening for the first time, it's all love. We couldn't have gotten this far without ya'll!
This week, we partnered up with Freedom First America to give back to the kids in our community by starting a Back To School Backpack Drive. On the show, we had Blain Smothermon, who is the host of Freedom First America Podcast, come by to talk how his podcast originated, linking up with Don-B to create the backpack...2021-08-0643 minThe Freedom First PodcastMaria Fernanda Bello | Political Activist, Freedom Fighter, Born and raised in Venezuela, Survivor of Socialism, Public SpeakerMaria Bello is a young conservative activist who was born and raised in Venezuela. She actively denounced the human rights violations of Hugo Chavez and Nicolas Maduro while living in Venezuela. At the age of 17, Maria fled her home country due to the destructive democratic socialism implemented. Since her arrival in the United States, Maria has continued to be active in the fight against socialism and communism. She was the Coalition Director for Young Americans Against Socialism. Maria has also been featured in PragerU videos, including ''Americanos''. Maria is also starting a non-profit that will be launching soon.2021-07-2952 minThe Freedom First PodcastErik Heine | Owner of NAG Industries, Gunsmith, Military VeteranEpisode 20 w/ the owner and founder of @n.a.g_industries Erik Heine.In this episode we sit down with Erik Heine, the founder and owner of NAG Industries, a military veteran, Gunsmith and an all around great human being. N.A.G Industries is a premium, local, veteran, and family owned company in Bakersfield, CA. They offer expertise in sales, repair, enhancement, and service of a wide variety of firearms, ammunition and equipment with a focus on Law Enforcement and Government Agencies. For...2021-07-011h 02The Freedom First PodcastBrent Gleeson | A Navy SEAL's guide to "Embracing the Suck" and "Taking Point" of your lifeBrent Gleeson is a Navy SEAL combat veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author of “Embrace the Suck”, "Taking Point" and CEO of Taking Point Leadership. He is an acclaimed speaker on topics ranging from leadership and building high performance teams to culture, resilience, and organizational transformation. Website: http://www.takingpointleadership.comInstagram: @brent_gleeson Support the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)2021-05-2745 minThe Freedom First PodcastMajor Williams | 2022 Candidate for Governor of CaliforniaEpisode 18 with Major Williams! (@majorwilliams)In this episode we sit down with California gubernatorial candidate Major Williams to talk about his run for Governor of California in 2022, the recall Gavin Newsom efforts, his story growing up from rags to riches and why Californians should vote for him in the 2022 election. We also discuss his plans to restore the state of California if he is elected as governor.Instagram: @majorwilliamsWebsite: www.majorforgovernor.comSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)2021-05-0628 minThe Freedom First PodcastJack Carr | New York Times Bestselling Author, Navy SEAL Sniper, OutdoorsmanJack Carr is a New York Times bestselling author and former Navy SEAL. He is the author of The Terminal List, True Believer, and Savage Son. Jack Carr led special operations teams as a Team Leader, Platoon Commander, Troop Commander and Task Unit Commander. Over his 20 years in Naval Special Warfare he transitioned from an enlisted SEAL sniper, to a junior officer leading assault and sniper teams in Iraq and Afghanistan, to a platoon commander practicing counterinsurgency in the southern Philippines, to commanding a Special Operations Task Unit in the most Iranian influenced section of southern Iraq throughout the...2021-04-1537 minThe Freedom First PodcastDavid Meltzer | CEO Sports 1 Marketing, Speaker, Entrepreneur, AuthorDavid Meltzer is the Co-founder of Sports 1 Marketing and formerly served as CEO of the renowned Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment agency, which was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire.His life’s mission is to empower OVER 1 BILLION people to be happy! This simple yet powerful mission has led him on an incredible journey to provide one thing…VALUE. In all his content and communication that’s exactly what you’ll receive. He is a three-time international best-selling author, a Top 100 Business Coach, the executive producer of Entrepreneur‘s #1 digital business show, Elevator Pitch, and host of...2021-04-0224 minThe Freedom First PodcastJohn Nores | Retired Special Ops Game Warden, Best Selling Author, SniperJohn Nores is a recently retired game warden with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. While serving he helped develop the Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET) and Delta Team, the first comprehensive special operations tactical team and sniper unit, with a mission to combat the marijuana cartel's destruction and decimation of California's wildlife resources. He is the bestselling Author of “Hidden War” and “War in the Woods” which you can purchase using this link below. John is also a musician who plays in the band Area 56, competes in triathlons, marathons and even racing in the Baja 500. •John discus...2021-03-181h 52The Freedom First PodcastCoach Mike Machado | Head Football Coach, Teacher, Getting High School & Youth Sports Back PlayingCoach Mike Machado is entering his 17th year of coaching football and 11th year teaching. Coach Machado and many other coaches, players and parents in CA have been vocal about getting all youth and high school sports back playing, citing the negative effects the lack of athletics has had on our kids. Mike Machado has coached at Tulare Western, Mission Oak, Porterville High School, El Capitan (Merced) and Mt. Whitney. He recently spent 3 seasons as Head Football Coach for the Porterville Panthers, where he rebuilt the program from a (2-8) record too back to back playoff appearances in 2018 and 2019...2021-03-041h 35The Freedom First PodcastTyson Durfey | Back against the wall | Rodeo Cowboy, 2016 NFR World Champion, 14x NFR QualifierTyson Durfey is a Rodeo Cowboy who competes as a Tie-Down Roper. He won the National Finals Rodeo WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP in 2016 and has qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 14 times. Tyson has gone broke twice in pursuit of a World title, from sleeping on couches to the back seat of his truck. His back has been against the wall his entire life, growing up poor and having to work for everything he has. Tyson Durfey is a prime example of the Freedom First mentality. • Producer: @grimsleezy Hosts: @blain6 / @_erichearn • Make sure to subscribe on Apple...2021-02-161h 04The Freedom First PodcastMarion “The Belizean Bruiser" Reneau | UFC Fighter, Teacher, Gym OwnerMarion Reneau is a Mixed Martial Artist currently competing in the UFC . She is the #10 Ranked Women's Bantamweight. Marion Reneau is a graduate of California State University Long Beach with a degree in sports medicine and she is a high school teacher. She owns and runs @trifecta_mma_visalia in Visalia, CA where she trains and fights out of. Reneau began her professional mixed martial arts career in 2010. After winning several professional fights she attempted to try out for The Ultimate Fighter 18. However, she was allegedly told by UFC brass that she was too old to be a contestant...2021-02-0429 minThe Freedom First PodcastDr. Mark Gordon | Neuroregenerative Medicine, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Interventional EndocrinologyDr. Mark Gordon is an expert in the field of Neuroregenerative medicine, the treatment of traumatic brain injuries and is recognized as a top leader worldwide in interventional endocrinology. He is the founder of the Millennium Health Center, and in 2006 and 2007 he participated in ESPN outside the line programs where he shared his clinical experience assessing and treating both professional Boxers and NFL players who had complications arising out of their sports. He has appeared on several episodes of the Joe Rogan experience and most recently appeared on the @joerogan Experience w/ his partner Andrew Marr for episode #1589. •2021-01-281h 12The Freedom First PodcastDr. Jonathan Hernandez: Founder of Rise 2 It Productions, Professor, Speaker, EntrepreneurEpisode #10 - DR. JONATHAN HERNANDEZ "H" (@rise2itpro_h)Professor of CommunicationFounder, Speaker, RISE 2 IT PRODUCTIONSBig thanks to @rise2itpro_h and @rise2itpro for coming on the show! We had a blast.••" Dr. Jonathan Hernandez is a Professor of Communication and the Founder, Speaker, of RISE 2 IT PRODUCTIONS, The #1 Motivational Speaking Company in Central California. Dr. H has earned national attention for being ranked the fifth highest-rated professor in the United States according to NBC News, NBC Latino, and USA Today. Jonathan has also been...2021-01-211h 09The Freedom First Podcast#9 - Councilman Daniel Peñaloza: Community Organizer, Porterville City Councilmember, Small Business Shutdowns, Local Politics & MoreEpisode #9 - Local Politician: Daniel Penaloza (Facebook:@CouncilmemberDanielPenaloza)"Daniel Penaloza is an elected official in California’s San Joaquin Valley, located in the City of Porterville, CA. In 2018, Daniel was elected to Porterville City Council (District 1) and became the youngest person to be elected in the city’s history”, and currently the youngest city council member in Tulare County. Daniel resides in Porterville and graduated from Porterville College with an Associate of Science Degree and an Associate of Arts. In college he got involved with various community-based clubs and he discovered his love for public...2021-01-071h 39The Freedom First PodcastJoey Mullen: A Tattoo ArtistEpisode 8: Tattoo Artist: Joey Mullen (@inkbyjoeymullen89)We had an amazing conversation with Tattoo Artist and competitive shooter Joey Mullen (@inkbyjoeymullen89) about tattoos, business, firearms, growing up on the East Side of Bakersfield and much more. Joey Mullen is 31 years old and was raised in East Bakersfield. He has been raising his family since he was 16 years old, leaving high school and working for his Family tattooing since he was 14 years old. Joey came from a concrete and construction background in order to support his family at a young age until he decided tattooing was his true calling. 2020-11-191h 25The Freedom First PodcastErika Jackson & Fernando Gonzalez: Mental Health with a Therapist and TeacherEpisode 7: Therapist, Erika Nicole Jackson (@erikanicolejackson) & Educator, Fernando “Gonzo” Gonzalez (@fgj_24)•Our Guests this week, Tulare, CA Native and @fresno_state Graduate, Erika Nicole Jackson is a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with children and families treating a wide range of clinical diagnosis including depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, schizophrenia, grief and loss, relationship conflicts and much more.Fernando “Gonzo” Gonzalez is also a Tulare, CA Native and @fresno_state Graduate. Fernando is a revolutionary educator who specializes in relationship building and the social and emotional aspects of education.•Hosts: Eric Hearn (@_eri...2020-11-051h 18The Freedom First PodcastMargie Britton: Breast Cancer Survivor, Educator, World TravelerEpisode 6: Special Episode dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month and all those who have or are currently battling breast cancer with Margie Britton. Margie Britton has been an educator for over 35 years making an impact like few have, she has spent time as a teacher, administrator and many other roles. Margie is a breast cancer survivor who tells her story fighting breast cancer in this episode of the Freedom First Podcast. As a world traveler Margie has spent time in countries all throughout the world. She is one of the most selfless and hard working people I have ever...2020-10-2934 minThe Freedom First PodcastValorie Kondos Field: Retired UCLA Women’s Gymnastics Coach, 7X NCAA National Champion, Breast Cancer SurvivorEpisode 5: This Special Episode is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month w/ @missvalkondos.•How does a professional dancer become one of the greatest coaches in NCAA history? She cares for her athletes and teaches them to have fun. The The Freedom First Podcast is proud to welcome Valorie Kondos Field to this week’s epic show. Valorie Kondos Field also known as Miss Val is a former Professional Ballerina Dancer turned Gymnastics Coach and the recently Retired Head Coach of the UCLA Women’s Gymnastics Team. Miss Val is a 7 Time NCAA National Champion, 22-time Regional and 18-time Pa...2020-10-151h 18The Freedom First PodcastTony Hoffman: Prison to the Olympics, Drug Addiction, BMX Racing, HomelessnessEpisode 4: “From Prison To The Olympics” with Tony Hoffman. Tony Hoffman is our guest on EP 4 of The Freedom First Podcast. This Special Episode is dedicated to National Suicide Prevention Month.•Tony Hoffman’s viral story of his triumphant journey through sports stardom, mental health struggles, substance use disorder, homelessness & his quest to coaching in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. It’s a story that pierces the hearts and minds of it’s listeners, It simply CHANGES LIVES. Tony has been sober since May 17th, 2007. His BMX career started in high school, as he was a top-rank...2020-09-291h 59The Freedom First PodcastOfficer Ronnie Jeffries: Police Officer, Army Veteran, Business Owner, Fire Arms InstructorEpisode 3: Officer Ronnie Jeffries (@jeffriesfirearmstraining) a current police officer, military veteran and fire arms instructor joined us on the @freedomfirstusa Podcast this week to discuss his story of becoming a police officer and his ideas on community policing and police reform. We discussed police reform, community relations, firearm safety, mental health and much more. Ronnie has spent time in the SWAT team, Gang Unit, as a Range master, community relations officer and patrol officer. As the owner of Jeffries Firearm Training, Ronnie instructs all levels of fire arm training and safety courses.--If you’re...2020-09-171h 33The Freedom First PodcastFernando "Gonzo" Gonzalez: Revolutionary Educator, School Closures , Distance Learning, Future of EducationEpisode 2: Fernando "Gonzo" Gonzalez. Fernando is a revolutionary educator, coach and fitness fanatic. In this episode we discussed school closures, distance learning and the future of education. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fgj_24/ ( @fgj_24) Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mr_Gonzo_ (@Mr_Gonzo_) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmxWW4pEUyFQVC4xNAVdJcQSupport the show (https://venmo.com/u/freedomfirstusa)2020-09-031h 29The Freedom First PodcastKassandra Gutierrez: Reporter & Journalist, Human Trafficking, COVID -19Episode 1: Guest: Kassandra Gutierrez (Insta: @kassgutierreztv)Follow Kassandra Gutierrez on Instagram @kassgutierreztv Moved from Lindsay, CA to Eugene, Oregon for her dream job in 2019.Media Journalist, News Reporter, Weekend Weather Anchor Eugene, Oregon - NBC16 - KVAL - UCSB In this episode we had on Miss Kassandra Guitterez. Kassandra is a Central Valley native who is a reporter and journalist for NBC16 and KVAL in Eugene, Oregon. She has done extensive reporting and journalism work on topics such as Coivid-19 and sex tra...2020-08-2046 min