PUNK BRATS PODCAST

From growing up as a Navy brat to spending his formative years in Guam, Joey Swatzell’s journey is anything but ordinary. Living overseas from middle school through high school, Joey was shaped by a unique blend of cultures, experiences, and the resilience that comes with military family life.In Season 4, Episode 2 of Punk Brats, Joey shares how those early years abroad helped shape his perspective, discipline, and love for sport, ultimately leading him down an unexpected path to becoming an International World Rugby Referee.From the islands of Guam to the global stage of rugby, Joey’s story is one of adaptability, passion, and pursuing purpose wherever life takes you.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

On this powerful season opener of Punk Brats, we sit down with YouTube creative content creator Paul Brickey of Easy Acres Homestead to unpack a life defined by grit, growth, and grit again. From growing up an USAF Brat, to running away in high school while living in Seoul, to serving as an Army combat nurse, Paul’s journey is anything but ordinary.Now living off the grid and leading a thriving homesteading community, Paul shares how adversity shaped his resilience, how service transformed his purpose, and why self-reliance is more than a lifestyle, it’s a mindset.This is a raw, real conversation about survival, second chances, and building a life on your own terms. Check out Paul's YouTube Page!WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

In the final episode of Punk Brats Season 3, we sit down with USAF Brat, Brett Gentile, who shares how growing up as a military brat shaped his path from Army veteran to actor, writer, and producer. Brett reflects on how resilience, adaptability, and constant change prepared him for both military service and life in Hollywood, including his work on movies such as We’re the Millers, Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, and TV hits such as The Walking Dead, Army Wives, and Showtime’s Homeland. A meaningful close to Season 3, this episode celebrates shared roots, grit, and the lasting impact of the military brat experience.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Lincoln Millstein is an accomplished news executive and a current member of the Stars and Stripes Publisher’s Advisory Board. The son of a Taiwanese mother and an American service member, he grew up as a military brat and learned English by reading Stars and Stripes while living in Taiwan. His upbringing instilled in him a lifelong passion for journalism and the role of a free press in democracy.Millstein’s distinguished media career spans both traditional and digital journalism. He served as Senior Vice President and Special Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer at The Hearst Corporation, a role he had held until 2018. Prior to that, he served as Executive Vice President and Deputy Group Head of Hearst Newspapers and also held the position of Senior Vice President of Digital Media. He played a pivotal role in guiding Hearst’s transformation into the digital age.Before joining Hearst, Millstein served as Executive Vice President of New York Times Digital, where he oversaw the digital platforms for The New York Times(NYTimes.com) and The Boston Globe(Boston.com). He was instrumental in the founding of Boston.com in 1995 and served as its first general manager. In 2000, he was named Chief Operating Officer of New York Times Digital. His transition to digital leadership began in 1994 when he left a 25-year newsroom career to spearhead The Boston Globe's digital strategy, which culminated in the launch of the highly acclaimed Boston.com.In recent years, Millstein has returned to his roots in community journalism, transitioning from national media leadership to hyperlocal reporting. His deep belief in the power of local news to strengthen civic engagement continues to drive his work today.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

From Base to Backwoods: Army Brat Andrew Scott Shares His Journey to Frontline Heroes Outdoors. Andrew is a proud Army Brat and co-founder of Frontline Heroes Outdoors. Growing up, Andrew moved from place to place, like many military kids do. Through all the change, one thing remained constant: his pride in his father’s service and his identity as an Army brat. Tune in as Andrew shares how his upbringing shaped his values, his love for the outdoors, and the passion behind creating a nonprofit that gives back to veterans and first responders.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

From Air Force Brat to the Stars and Stripes, Max Lederer shares about his extraordinary journey through Law School, his military service in the U.S. Army, and how he became the publisher of the Stars and Stripes newspaper.Stars and Stripes is an independent news organization that serves the U.S. military community. It primarily provides news and information to members of the U.S. Armed Forces, their families, and other Department of Defense personnel, especially those stationed overseas. The Punk Brats are stoked to dive into this personal and captivating interview!WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

In Season Two, Episode Three of Punk Brats, we hear from the Hawes sisters, Kayla and Julia. They share their experiences of constant change, saying goodbye to friends, and starting over, as well as the deeply personal challenges of living with a father struggling with PTSD.  Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation about the unique journey of military kids and how one sister ultimately found purpose working for the nonprofit organization Children of Fallen Patriots.  April is the Month of the Military Child, a time to honor the strength and resilience of military kids. Our flower, the dandelion, may seem like a simple weed, but it’s a powerful symbol of our spirit—rooted deeply, surviving through change, and blooming wherever life takes us.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of the Punk Brats!! Larry "Scott" Teakell, a distinguished Army Brat, embarked on his military career by enlisting in the United States Army in 1995. With a commitment to service, he dedicated himself to the vital role of a medic, providing critical care and support to his fellow soldiers. Throughout his career, he completed three tours in Iraq, as well as deployments in Bosnia and Macedonia, demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication in various challenging environments. In July 2007, during his service in Iraq, Sergeant Teakell displayed extraordinary bravery when he heroically extinguished a fuel fire that threatened the life of Army Specialist Marisol Heredia. This selfless act of valor earned him the Soldier's Medal, the Army's highest award for heroism in non-combat situations. His experiences as a combat medic have profoundly shaped his perspective on leadership, courage, and the importance of teamwork in high-pressure situations.After a commendable military career, Teakell retired as a Sergeant First Class in 2015. Following his retirement, he continued to suffer from PTSD. But he pursued a passion for craftsmanship, specifically in the art of knife forging and overcame his fear of fire. This newfound endeavor led him to establish Junkyard Tactical, a company dedicated to creating high-quality tactical knives. Through Junkyard Tactical, Teakell continues to exemplify the values of dedication and excellence that he upheld during his time in the Army, contributing to the community of knife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.This episode also features surprise guest, Army brat, and Hollywood Storyboard Artist, Craig Holloway. Follow Craig on Instagram and Facebook.Punk Brats is a community project brought to you by Hats Off For Veterans, dedicated to empowering Texas veterans through higher education scholarships, professional development grant opportunities, and access to mental health counseling resources. Our mission is to honor their service by equipping them with the tools and support needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Get ready for the explosive season two finale of Punk Brats Podcast! We’re bringing you the incredible Chris Soriano – a true trailblazer in the world of filmmaking, acting, and entrepreneurship. Known for his dynamic contributions to both entertainment and social causes, Chris has made waves on major platforms like CNN, ABC News, and NBC. But that’s not all – in 2018, he shattered records by creating the world’s largest car air freshener, earning a Guinness World Record and using his platform to spotlight environmental issues. He created The Master Chief, The Wedding Hustler, and Almighty Zeus, executive produced by boxing world champion Manny Pacquiao. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!Punk Brats is a community project brought to you by Hats Off For Veterans, a nonprofit organization committed to providing financial assistance to Texas veterans pursuing their first higher education degree and supporting professional development for those seeking certification or licensure in skilled trades. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for those who have bravely served our country.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Natassia Cherne is commander of the United States Air Force's 361st Recruiting Squadron, a landmark achievement that not only highlights her exceptional leadership skills but also serves as an inspiration to countless others striving to break through barriers in the military. Her journey to this prestigious position is a testament to her unwavering hard work, relentless perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Now, as she leads the 361st Recruiting Squadron, Natassia not only embodies the spirit of the Air Force but also paves the way for future generations of women in the military. Her story is one of triumph, inspiration, and a vivid reminder that with dedication and tenacity, anything is possible. As she takes on this monumental role, she is set to inspire a new wave of recruits, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to serve their country and achieve their dreams. The sky is truly the limit for Commander Cherne!WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Get ready for an electrifying episode as the Punk Brats sit down with none other than Mark Smith—a social media powerhouse who's racked up over 2.1 million followers and counting! Mark is the creative genius behind the viral sensation "Glad I'm Not A Fish!"—a brand that's taken the internet by storm with its quirky humor and relatable content. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious about the magic behind his meteoric rise, this is one interview you can’t afford to miss!Mark’s lens doesn’t just capture images—it brings the wild to life! With every shot, he immerses you in breathtaking scenes of wildlife, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary visual stories. His unique vision reveals the untamed beauty of nature, creating stunning pictures and videos that leave you in awe and make you feel like you’re right there, in the heart of the wilderness.Punk Brats is a community project brought to you by Hats Off For Veterans, a nonprofit organization committed to providing financial assistance to Texas veterans pursuing their first higher education degree and supporting professional development for those seeking certification or licensure in skilled trades. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for those who have bravely served our country.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Marc McKinney experienced moves during his childhood as a result of his father’s career in the USAF. Despite his early travels, he continued to relocate an additional 21 times later in life.After his father’s honorable discharge, he transitioned into a notorious role as a drug dealer in Texas. This prompted Marc’s family to traverse various locations across the state, ultimately culminating in Marc completing his high school education in Sulphur Springs, Texas.Join the Punk Brats as they interview Marc, delving into his nomadic upbringing and exploring the unique challenges and experiences of life on the move.This episode is brought to you by https://www. MajiConsulting.com.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Taiyo Reimers began documenting the demolition of the Negishi Heights Naval Housing Area in Yokohama during the summer of his senior year at Kinnick High School (Yo-Hi), Yokosuka, Japan. From 2021 to 2023, he filmed at Negishi over the course of 16 trips and interviewed over 40 past community members, in producing a 26-minute video on the values that defined the Negishi Heights experience. A Negishi resident from 2013 to 2015, he currently lives in, and attends college in Yokosuka, Japan.Watch By Fair Winds (a story of Negishi Heights).WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Brat Legacy Films is a military brat-run film company in pre-production for the documentary, Brat Ambition, about military-dependent life. Marine Brat Kimberly McKay started Brat Legacy Films in 2021 with old Kubasaki High School classmates John Schwab and Brad Heath. Brat Ambition will feature an “American Idol” runner-up, professional athletes, musicians and actors, along with everyday people.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Cynthia Doss is an Army brat, but she refers to herself as a different vintage kind-of-a brat. Her father was inducted into the segregated United States Army in 1947 and served during integration and the turbulent 1960's. After 21 years of service, he retired in 1968. Continuing to work with Veterans for over 30 years, he went on to become the state of Kansas' Commander for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization.Cynthia will share about her brat stories including living in Kaiserslautern, Germany and reminiscing about family trips to Holland with her brothers and sister.Cynthia is a published author who released "That Quiet Voice: A Memoir of Hope.Out now, Black Officer, White Army: A Father's Legacy of Forgiveness and Tolerance. Click here purchase your copy today.______________________________________________This episode is brought to you by Maji Consulting. With each consultant having over 25 years of experience in their expertise field, Maji Consulting has the answers that will provide a solid beginning foundation or streamline your company, backing our pledge of always adding value. Let our consultants come in and show you how to improve your communication and networking skills. Ask about our one-on-one and group training sessions. Professional development is an important aspect of continuing your career growth and striving to reach your goals. It can be instrumental in growing a stronger team. Employers who encourage their employees to seek out professional development opportunities are in turn encouraging higher productivity and job satisfaction.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Deployed to Vietnam in July 1967, Brigadier General Kenneth Fleenor‘s F-4 Phantom was shot down on December 17. During his captivity at the infamous Hanoi Hilton, he endured starvation and torture. Patti shares what it was like to be a military Brat of a Veteran who was a POW. She was 10 years-old when he was captured and 16 when he was released. Let us never forget those who never came home.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

An Army Brat born in Germany, Matt Gamble is one of the founders of the Korea-U.S. fashion brand, Diazable. Recently recognized in The Korea Times Newspaper for his creative brand, Matt shares about his Army Brat years with the Punk Brats. If you catch him at one of his stands, Gamble may introduce himself as Guksu, a Korean word for noodles. What is Diazable? In its purest essence, Diazable is the handiwork of two amazing friends coming together to share their talents and genuine love of death metal and hardcore music with the world. Just take a look at his designs, and you'll see why. Many of them bear his most popular character, Baby Noodle, a bashful little creature with a black hat, puffy cheeks, a wispy mustache, snakebite piercings and lots of tattoos.Want to advertise on the Punk Brats website or on an episode? Learn more here!WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

In Writer-Director Donna Musil's film, BRATS: Our Journey Home, U.S. military brats share intimate memories about their unique childhoods - growing up on military bases around the world, then struggling to fit into an American lifestyle with which they have little in common. Narrated and featuring songs by Kris Kristofferson. Interviews include the late General Norman Schwarzkopf; military brat author Mary Edwards Wertsch, the first to identify brats as a hidden American subculture; and brats of all ages, races, and branches of service.   This episode is brought to you by Brats Without Borders, a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded in 1999. Their mission is to provide educational outreach, support, materials, and research to enrich the lives of Military "Brats" and other "Third Culture Kids" of all ages.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

In his book, ‘Dear Military Teen,’ Marine Corp Brat Shanon Hyde explores crucial life lessons in the obstacles that military brats face. Reflecting on the moves and deployments that his own family endured, Shanon provides honest advice for military teens looking to take their next steps in high school, college, and beyond. Shanon also equips military teens with the essential skills of maintaining friendships over distance, navigating new social environments, and effectively chasing their dreams no matter where the military takes them. This is a one-of-a-kind comprehensive guide that military teens everywhere need in their bookshelf. Currently, Shanon attends Penn State and is the host of his own podcast "The Shanon Show" available on YouTube.This episode is brought to you by Maji Consulting. Professional development is provided by experienced professionals with over 20 plus years of leadership training. Ask about our one-on one services. Virtual services are available. For more information, visit www.MajiConsulting.com.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Maji ConsultingProfessional Development Training for Leadership, Management, Staff and Board of Directors.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Overseas Brats⁠ is considered one of the largest U.S. military brat organizations. Created in 1986 by Joe Condrill, his mission was to bring ALL brats around the world together in one place for camaraderie, fun, and sharing about each other's brat heritage. Son of an Army officer, Joe lived in 21 locations in his 19 years as an Army Brat. He attended DoDDS schools in Boeblingen, Germany and Orleans, France, and spent a summer near Verona, Italy. He attended schools in Hawaii, the international schools in Bangkok, Thailand followed by Tehran, Iran where he graduated from high school. The next few years takes Joe on a journey as he joined the USAF. After his service, he joined the Princess and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Ships, where he carried on his passion for traveling around the world.This episode is brought to you by ⁠Country Anchor Photography.⁠ Bright. Bold. Colorful. Whatever you want, Sabrina can take care of you for any occasion. "I am a full-time dreamer, a golden hour light chaser, and the love for what I do runs deep. My greatest hope is that when you see your images, long after our time together, they will be visual reminders that will make your heart travel and feel what life and love felt like in that moment." Serving the Greater Austin and Lampasas County Areas.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Shawna Kenney is the author of the award-winning memoir I Was a Teenage Dominatrix (Last Gasp), editor of the anthology Book Lovers: Sexy Stories from Under the Covers (Seal Press), co-author of Imposters (Mark Batty Publisher), and co-author of the new oral history Live at the Safari Club: A History of HarDCore Punk in the Nation’s Capital 1988-1998 (Rare Bird Books). She is a Contributing Editor with Narratively and her nonfiction work has appeared in The New York Times, Playboy, Creative Nonfiction, Vice, The Rumpus, Bust, Salon and more. Episodes 5 is brought to you by Hats Off For Veterans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Learn more at www.HOFV.org.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Jon Coker is an Emmy-nominated producer and the audience engagement specialist for KENS 5, San Antonio’s CBS affiliate. He was born in Germany on a U.S. Air Force base and says he was “raised on an airplane” in a military family. Experiencing different cultures and countries around the world at such a young age contributed to his fascination with people and their stories. Since his early childhood, Jon has been a multi-tasker, managing several projects at once. Apart from his TV work, Coker and his wife, Jaymee, direct student ministry initiatives for their church, lead several business ventures, and develop character education programs for schools across the country through their nonprofit organization, Creative Hearts Entertainment.This episode is brought to you by Operation Homefront, a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since 2002, Operation Homefront has been proudly serving America’s military families. Nominations Open for Military Child of the Year® 2024.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time, Sage Scott is addicted to travel. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 countries. Meet Sage!This episode is brought to you by Caitlyn Adams, a one-stop-realtor for all of your Texas real estate needs. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, give Caitlyn a call at 512-661-2478 or visit her website at https://caitlynadams.brayreg.com.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

Sit tight after the podcast to hear our first Punk Brat voicemail! He used to be called Littlejohn by his friends because Dwight “Andre” Littlejohn was short at Camp Zama middle school. However, after eating all of his Wheaties and a growth spurt, Littlejohn became the big man on campus at the Capitol working for Capitol Police and looking out for Congress leaders. Ambition runs high for Littlejohn, so he found himself on an episode of Shark Tank pushing his unique and innovative idea of a tie holder called ⁠Total Tie Keep⁠.  This episode is brought to you by Total Tie Keep.WWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.

We invite you to join Rose and Lisa for their pilot episode of Punk Brats featuring Army Brat and Kansas City KMBZ’s #1 Radio Host, Mr. Scott Parks. Scott has lived in several states and Germany. Listen as he shares his personal brat experiences and what he’s up to when he’s not on the #1 radio station in Kansas. This episode is brought to you by Maji Consulting. Professional development is an important aspect of continuing your career growth and striving to reach your goals. It can be instrumental in growing a stronger team. Call Maji today to learn more at 512-682-5333 or visit www.MajiConsulting.com.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/punkbrats/messageWWW.PUNKBRATS.COM | 512.254.5989Hats Off For VeteransNonprofit 501c3 Organization Helping Veterans with Higher Education and Professional Development.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showCommunity Project by Nonprofit Organization Hats Off For Veterans. Produced by MNKY BOO Productions.