Shows
Unarmored TalkMario & Nicole’s Holiday Reflections - UNARMOREDSend us a textAs this year draws to a close, I had the privilege of sitting down with my incredible wife, Nicole, to record a very special episode of Unarmored Talk.This one is different—it’s unstructured, raw, and straight from the heart. We share stories from the early days of our relationship, including the unforgettable moment we first met and our initial impressions of each other. We also reflect on the journey that has brought us to an incredible milestone: our upcoming 30th wedding anniversary.Check it out and let us k...2024-12-2406 min
Unarmored TalkFrom Sergeant Major to Entrepreneur: The Bar Book Mobile AppSend us a textWhat if exploring alcoholic beverages was as personalized and effortless as streaming music?Meet Mike Waskewich Jr., a retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major turned entrepreneur, who, alongside his wife, created the Bar Book mobile app. In this episode of Unarmored Talk Podcast, Mike shares their journey from military service to launching an app that uses flavor-matching technology to recommend personalized cocktails, beers, and spirits.Explore the challenges and rewards of transitioning to civilian entrepreneurship, the camaraderie among veterans in the alcohol industry, and the power of networking and...2024-12-0217 min
Unarmored TalkColonel (Ret.) Mark Shuster’s Journey Through Post-Military StrugglesSend us a textWhat happens when a distinguished Marine Corps Colonel transitions to civilian life?In this episode of the Unarmored Talk Podcast, retired Marine Corps Colonel Mark Shuster shares his journey from a 33-year military career to civilian life. He discusses the emotional and financial challenges of this transition and the importance of handling obstacles with composure. Mark also explores the often-overlooked struggles veterans face, such as identity loss and depression, comparing past and present support systems. With practical advice on reading, networking, and building a personal support network...2024-09-1621 min
Unarmored TalkPart 2: From War-Torn Vietnam to Decorated MarineSend us a textWhat does it take to escape post-war Vietnam and become a decorated Marine Sergeant Major?Listen to Retired Sergeant Major Chuong Nguyen share the final moments of his inspiring journey from Vietnam to America. Discover how his family's unwavering support fueled a life of resilience and service.A story of courage and hope!This episode offers a raw and intimate look at the challenges Chuong faced in his early life and how his military career profoundly shaped him.Guest Link:...2024-07-1528 min
Unarmored TalkFrom War-Torn Vietnam to Decorated Marine: Part 1Send us a textWhat does it take to escape post-war Vietnam and become a decorated Marine Sergeant Major?Get ready to witness the resilience, courage, and resourcefulness required in the relentless quest for freedom. From navigating treacherous seas to finding refuge on a remote island, retired Sergeant Major Chuong Nguyen joins me to recount his extraordinary journey.Experience the tension and desperation of Chuong’s first escape attempt, the relief of reaching land, and the makeshift survival strategies on an island devoid of modern comforts. Feel the heartbreak of a shattered dream as...2024-07-0826 min
Unarmored TalkMarine Corps Veteran Reveals Why Money Isn't EverythingSend us a textWhat happens when a Marine Corps veteran says goodbye to his corporate job and follows his passion into the entertainment world?Join us as Victor Cannon, owner of CAN-DO Productions, Inc., shares his remarkable 30-year journey from the Marines and trash industry to the entertainment sector. Victor talks about the mixed reactions from family and friends, the strategic seven-year plan he crafted with his wife and the highs and lows of his path to creating Can-Do Productions. Hear about his work as a DJ, where he spreads love and joy at...2024-06-1728 min
Unarmored TalkA Sergeant Major Unveils His Jaw-Dropping Life's JourneySend us a textJoin us for an inspiring episode of the Unarmored Talk Podcast featuring Sergeant Major (Ret.) Timothy 'T.O.' Clay. Hear about his jaw-dropping and inspirational journey chronicled in his book, 'From Here to There: The Prodigal and Back.' Through Timothy's heartfelt reflections, we explore the invaluable lessons learned from every experience and the transformative power of helping others. Discover how shared human connections have shaped Timothy's path and contributed to his recent sold-out event. This event serves as a testament to the collective growth found in our connections....2024-04-0224 min
Unarmored TalkFrom 35 Years in the U.S. Marine Corps to Civilian LifeSend us a textFrom the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps to the introspective pathways of civilian life, retired Sergeant Major Cortez Brown graces our show with tales of his remarkable transition. His story isn't just one of change, but a testament to the power of self-reflection to learn and improve, when transitioning out of the military. Cortez shares his journey, and we're reminded that leaving the uniform behind doesn't mean abandoning the brotherhood forged in service. Tune in for a candid look at the struggles, triumphs, and profound personal gr...2024-02-2626 min
Unarmored TalkEXCLUSIVE - The 'Full Metal Jacket' Documentary: Behind the ScenesSend us a textJoin me for an exciting journey behind the scenes of Full Metal Jacket. Hear untold stories from Kevyn Major Howard (aka ‘Rafterman’) and Steven Riggs about their upcoming documentary, A Modern Art Masterpiece | Full Metal Jacket. Explore art design, scriptwriting, casting, and challenges during the UK shoot. Discover Stanley Kubrick's genius and the film's global military impact. Lou Pizarro from "Operation Repo" shares insights. Learn about fundraising and the heartfelt tribute to Vietnam and the Fueled by the Fallen tribute car. Don't miss this unforgettable episode for Full Metal Jack...2023-09-2924 min
Unarmored TalkPaying Tribute to our Fallen HEROES: Rafterman from Full Metal JacketSend us a textI am humbled to share the stage with Kevyn Major Howard, a Canadian actor best known for his role as "Rafterman" in Stanley Kubrick's blockbuster film, Full Metal Jacket. He is also the founder of Fueled By The Fallen, a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides support to Veterans, First Responders, and their families.Also joining us is his amazing wife Tiffany Kalisz, and business partners Chuck Conder, and James Kochevar in paying tribute to fallen heroes. From the 1963 Chevrolet Nova, a symbol of respect for the Marines, to the trio...2023-09-1222 min
Unarmored TalkBecoming an Author: Lessons from Rod Bourn's JourneySend us a textEver wonder how does one navigate the challenging journey of writing a book? That's exactly what our guest, Rod Bourn, founder of Down Set Lead, and author of Down Set Lead, shares in this intriguing episode. Rod highlights the importance of mentorship and sharing personal stories in this endeavor. With firsthand experience, he emphasizes meticulous organization, effective networking, and asking the right questions. He also highlights the significance of ensuring the book is a smooth read that positively mirrors the author.Finally, we delve into the nitty-gritty of Rod's b...2023-09-1024 min
Unarmored TalkDevastating Combat Injuries Didn't Stop this Marine from LEADINGSend us a textWelcome to another episode of the Unarmored Talk Podcast, where I was privileged to host retired Master Gunnery Sergeant (USMC), Adam Walker, a Marine veteran who served with valor for over 25 years. Adam's story takes a deep dive into the emotional turmoil of leadership on the battleground, from the overpowering fear of failing to protect his squad to the profound pride in their mutual protectiveness. Listen as he divulges the heart-wrenching tragedy of losing a fellow Marine and the daunting task of returning to the battlefield post-evacuation. Adam turned...2023-08-3021 min
Unarmored TalkHitting the 'Restart Button' after 30 Years of Marriage: The JourneySend us a textCould you imagine hitting the 'restart button' after 30 years of marriage and an empty nest looming over the horizon? That's precisely the journey that our guest for today, Cynthia Schwartzberg, a certified brainspotting therapist, author, and trainer, undertook. Engage with her enlightening narrative as she takes us through her journey of life's transitions, from trying to figure out dating again after a long-term marriage to the strange sensation of starting a new life chapter single again.Moving onto the second part of our chat, Cynthia sheds light on her...2023-08-2124 min
Unarmored TalkFrom the U.S. Marine Corps to Real Estate Agent: Resilience Through CrisisSend us a textWhen life knocks you down, how do you bounce back? Join us in an engaging conversation with Eric Sandoval, a Marine Veteran and now a real estate agent in North Carolina, who inspires us through his story of resilience and determination. His riveting journey takes us from the battlefield to the real estate world, revealing how he emerged from the ruins of losing four revenue streams during the COVID crisis, just 15 days post maternity leave. In a raw, honest account, Eric shares his battle with hopelessness and the arduous task of...2023-08-1517 minUnarmored TalkShared Vision: How Joshua and Bree Cox Sustain Their Business RelationshipSend us a textEver wondered how a married couple can run a successful business together while also challenging each other to grow on a personal level? Meet Joshua and Bree Cox, a dynamic duo who are not just partners in life but also in business. Joshua, a military veteran, takes us on his journey from serving in the Army to becoming the entrepreneur he is today. Bree, with her rich background in sales and customer service, shares how she has evolved her mindset to become a better partner and friend.In a...2023-08-0530 min