The Lost Art Project: Veterans’ Voices

Tune in as John Crouch shares his experiences training Naval officers and what it truly takes to shape future leaders. He walks through the process, offering insight into the expectations, challenges, and responsibilities that come with the role of a Drill Instructor in this unique environment. Through story after story, John brings his time to life—highlighting not only the discipline and structure required, but also the lighter moments and humor that come along the way with officer candidates. His perspective provides a deeper understanding of leadership, adaptability, and the impact an instructor can have on those preparing to serve. Don’t miss this engaging episode as John reflects on his time in Pensacola and the lasting impressions it left on both him and those he trained.

Marine Veteran Jerry Mullen returns to finish his story, picking up where his time in the Marine Corps came to an end and his next chapter began in law enforcement. After becoming a police officer, he soon received the call that would change everything—the opportunity to become an FBI agent. Ready for the challenge, Jerry stepped into a new level of service and responsibility. After completing training, he was assigned to Wisconsin, where he went on to build an incredible career with the FBI. In this episode, Jerry shares stories from his life after the Corps, offering insight into the transition, the challenges, and the experiences that shaped him along the way. It’s a powerful continuation of his journey and a look at what service can become beyond the uniform.

After completing his second tour as a Drill Instructor, John Crouch returned to the fleet once again, but this time his stay was short. With a continued passion for the drill field, he was ready to step back into the role for a third time. However, that path wasn’t in the cards, and instead he was given a new opportunity—serving as a Drill Instructor for Navy officer training. In this episode, John shares how this unexpected assignment turned into something he truly enjoyed. From the differences in training officers compared to enlisted recruits, to the unique challenges and rewards that came with the role, he brings his experiences to life through story after story. This chapter highlights adaptability, leadership, and the ability to embrace new opportunities while continuing to make an impact.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are. Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people. Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are. Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people. Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you. Everyone has a story. Every voice matters.

In this episode, we find John Crouch wrapping up his time as a Drill Instructor and transitioning back to the fleet, where he returns to serve with the Air Wing. Now a Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, John steps into new leadership roles, leading in different capacities and continuing to grow as a Marine. It’s here that he truly begins to flourish, applying the lessons he learned on the drill field in a whole new environment. Before long, John realizes the impact he can make and makes the decision to return to the drill field for a second tour. He shares what led him back, along with the differences between his first and second time as a Drill Instructor. This chapter of his journey highlights growth, leadership, and the drive to continue challenging himself while shaping the next generation of Marines.

Jerry Mullen, Marine Veteran, began his journey through JROTC before earning his commission and stepping into the next chapter of his military career. In this episode, he shares his story from college to commissioning, offering insight into the path that shaped him as a leader. Presented with an incredible opportunity, Jerry went on to become a pilot—but not just any pilot. He earned his place as a helicopter pilot, where he excelled and steadily rose through the ranks. His journey is one of perseverance, discipline, and determination, showing what can happen when you commit to the process and refuse to quit. This is an incredible story of grit and seeing things through to the end, serving as a powerful example for anyone facing challenges and needing the motivation to keep moving forward.

Tune in as Navy Veteran Bill Barowsky shares his journey through military service and beyond. Starting his career in Great Lakes, he soon discovered his role as a Damage Controlman, learning the skills that would shape his time in the Navy. During a WestPAC deployment, he experienced both the highs of life at sea and the challenges that come with injury, testing his resilience along the way. Continuing his service in the reserves, Bill found himself stepping into a completely different role as a Corpsman, gaining a new perspective on care, responsibility, and adaptability. Outside of the military, his work in civilian firefighting further reinforced the importance of responding to trauma and helping others in critical moments. These experiences ultimately led him to discover the powerful impact horses can have in healing, inspiring his work with Horses for Heroes. This is a story of growth, transition, and purpose—one you won’t want to miss.

🔥 Fireside Chat Episode Description In this episode, we sit down for a relaxed and authentic fireside chat, diving into real stories, meaningful experiences, and honest conversation. With no scripts and no filters, this discussion brings forward personal insights, lessons learned, and perspectives that connect us all. Whether we’re reflecting on past challenges, sharing moments of growth, or exploring what lies ahead, this episode is all about genuine dialogue and human connection. Pull up a chair, settle in, and join us by the fire for a conversation that’s as engaging as it is inspiring.

In Part 4, we continue the conversation with retired 1stSgt John Crouch as he shares more of his experiences as a Marine Corps Drill Instructor. His ability to tell a story will keep you engaged from beginning to end, drawing you into the realities of life on the drill field. From his successes to the challenges he faced along the way, John maintained a positive mindset and a relentless drive to be the best at everything he did. His journey reflects the standards, discipline, and leadership expected of Marines, while also highlighting the personal growth that comes through adversity. John’s story not only serves as an example for Marines to look up to, but also showcases what it means to be a true leader and a gifted storyteller.  

Don’t miss Part 3 of Marine Veteran John Crouch as he shares his journey to becoming a Drill Instructor. From learning not to show up early, to developing true command presence—this episode dives into what it really takes to lead from the front. Hear how he got his first experience on the streets, shaping recruits and stepping into one of the most demanding roles in the Marine Corps.

Join us for Part 2 with Marine Veteran 1stSgt John Crouch (Ret.) as he continues sharing stories from his incredible career in the Marine Corps. In this episode, John talks about his time in the Marine Air Wing and the unique experience of being selected as the General’s Driver. From the responsibilities of the job to the unforgettable moments that came with it, John’s stories from that assignment are nothing short of entertaining. His ability to tell a story pulls you right in and gives you a glimpse into a side of the Marine Corps many people never see. Be sure to tune in and hear more from this motivated Marine and his outstanding career.

Tune in tonight for a powerful and informative discussion with the team behind the effort to upgrade Major James Capers’ award to the Medal of Honor. This episode offers a rare look into what it truly takes to pursue an award upgrade—shedding light on the process, the challenges, and the persistence required to see it through. You’ll hear firsthand about the trials and tribulations involved, as well as the dedication and commitment of those working to ensure that acts of valor receive the recognition they deserve. Joining the conversation are LtCol (Ret.) Brooks Tucker, SgtMaj (Ret.) Scott Frye, and SgtMaj (Ret.) Bryan Battaglia. This is a discussion you won’t want to miss—both impactful and deeply informative.

Grab a seat and pull up to the fire for another Fireside Chat with the Crew. 🔥 These conversations are all about real talk—stories, lessons learned, and the kind of discussions you’d normally hear when veterans get together and start swapping experiences. Nothing scripted, nothing fancy… just good conversation and a few laughs along the way. Tonight we’ll be talking about what’s going on in the veteran community, sharing some perspectives, and probably telling a few sea stories while we’re at it. If you’ve been part of the show before or you’re new to the community, jump in and join the conversation. Your thoughts and experiences are always welcome here. Tune in, say hello in the comments, and be part of the chat. Stay motivated and change your socks.

Join me as I sit down with Marine Veteran and former officer Adam Castillo as he shares his journey into the Marine Corps and the lessons he learned along the way. Not growing up around the military, Adam wasn’t sure which path to take, so he turned to friends for advice. Ultimately, he chose the Marine Corps simply because, in his words, they “looked the best.” After earning his commission and attending Officer Candidate School, Adam quickly learned the realities and responsibilities that come with leading Marines. Along his journey, he realized that staying on active duty wasn’t the right path for him and eventually transitioned out of the service. Like many veterans, he faced challenges finding his direction after the military, but through perseverance he found a career he believes in and a new mission to pursue. Adam has also written a book titled Finding Our Voice: A Story of Leadership in Crisis and the American Spirit Abroad, where he shares insights on leadership, adversity, and service. The book is available on Amazon. Don’t miss this great conversation and another powerful veteran story.  

Join me as I sit down with 1stSgt John Crouch, USMC (Ret.), who shares his journey before joining the Marine Corps and the challenges he faced in boot camp. Feeling at times like he was falling short and calling himself a “subpar Marine,” John pushed through the doubts and adversity to become the motivated leader he is today. Hear how perseverance, determination, and the drive to improve shaped his career and the Marines he would later lead. John has a way of telling his story that pulls you in and makes you feel like you were right there beside him. Don’t miss this powerful conversation and another incredible veteran story.

Justin Roopnarine, Air Force Veteran, shares a truly unique veteran story. After earning his college degree, Justin made the bold decision to join the military—despite having little prior knowledge or experience with military life. Determined to serve, he pursued a commission and became an officer in the Air Force. Using his engineering talents, Justin was assigned to work on rocket systems, contributing to critical projects and gaining opportunities to be involved in some truly special work during his time in service. His experiences highlight both the challenges and excitement of stepping into a highly technical role within the military. After a rewarding career in the Air Force, Justin eventually transitioned into the civilian sector, taking the skills and lessons he learned in uniform with him and now serves as a managing partner for Limitless Capital. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation and the story of a veteran whose path into military service was anything but typical. limitlesslp.com

Tune in for another episode of Jarhead Jabber, the official podcast of the Marine Corps League. This show brings Marines together to talk about the issues, stories, and experiences that connect the Marine Corps League. With great conversation, plenty of Marine Corps humor, and insight from Marines who have served in the League, Jarhead Jabber keeps the spirit of the Corps alive while highlighting the people that make the Marine Corps League what it is. Don’t miss this episode of Jarhead Jabber — where Marines come together to talk, laugh, and keep the brotherhood strong. Semper Fi.

Join us Sunday evening for another FireSide Chat with the Crew as we wrap up the week with good conversation, plenty of laughs, and stories you never know are coming. These chats are a chance for the crew to sit back, talk about what’s been going on during the week, share a few military stories, discuss the veteran community, and just enjoy some good old-fashioned conversation. FireSide Chats are always relaxed and unscripted, which means the conversation can go just about anywhere. Whether it’s talking about life after the military, current events, lessons learned from service, or just giving each other a hard time, it’s always a good time around the fire. Grab a seat, relax, and join us for this week’s FireSide Chat with the Crew.

Join us for another FireSide Chat with the Crew as we sit back, relax, and talk about whatever is on our minds this week. These episodes are always a good time as the crew gets together to share stories, discuss current events, talk about the veteran community, and of course throw in a few laughs along the way. Whether it's stories from our time in service, conversations about what veterans are dealing with today, or just some good old-fashioned banter, you never know where the conversation will go. That’s what makes these chats so enjoyable. So grab a seat by the fire and join the conversation. You never know what might come up during a FireSide Chat with the Crew.

Dan Gross, Navy Veteran, returns for Part 4 of his veteran story, where he dives deeper into his deployments and the challenges of finding the right role while serving in the reserves. Navigating the balance between leadership, responsibility, and the realities of reserve life wasn’t always easy. Known for speaking his mind, Dan shares how his honesty sometimes got him into trouble—but he never backed down from doing what he believed was right. Above all, he remained committed to taking care of his team and standing up for those under his leadership. Tune in as Dan continues sharing sea stories, hard lessons learned, and the leadership principles that guided him throughout his Navy career.

Dan Gross, Navy Veteran, continues sharing sea stories and lessons learned from an incredible military career. From his time serving as a Navy officer to navigating the unique challenges of the reserves, Dan reflects on the leadership, responsibility, and dedication required to balance military service with civilian life. With honesty and humor, he talks about the realities of being a reservist, the importance of strong leadership, and the experiences that shaped him along the way. His stories highlight the commitment and resilience of those who serve both in and out of uniform. Tune in for another great conversation filled with sea stories, insight, and a few lessons learned along the way.

Join us for another powerful episode I sit down with Marine Corps Veteran David Porter. Following in his father’s footsteps, David chose to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. Becoming a Marine infantryman and TOW gunner (anti-tank missileman), he quickly learned the responsibility and skill required to operate one of the Corps’ powerful weapons systems. Serving as a Marine reservist, David’s path was a little different from many active-duty Marines. Balancing civilian life with military service, he trained one weekend a month and two weeks each year while continuing to sharpen his skills with a unit that had recently returned from Desert Storm, gaining valuable knowledge and experience from seasoned Marines. After completing his time in the Marine Corps, David continued his life of service by joining the police force. There he excelled, serving in several specialized units throughout his career. Eventually, his leadership and experience led him into a mentorship role, helping fellow officers navigate stress and deal with the challenges and post-traumatic experiences that can come with the job. This is a must-watch episode as David shares stories from the Marine Corps, law enforcement, and the lessons learned from a lifetime of service.

Join us once again for another FireSide Chat w/ the Crew as we gather around and talk about everything going on with The Lost Art Project: Veterans’ Voices. These conversations are always a great chance to sit back, share some laughs, and talk about the stories and experiences that make this project so special. Tonight the Crew dives into a mix of topics, including updates on the podcast, recent guests, and some of the great veteran stories that continue to come through the show. As always, the conversation takes a few turns along the way with plenty of humor, reflection, and appreciation for the veterans who have shared their experiences with us. Grab a seat by the fire and tune in for another relaxed and entertaining conversation with the Crew as we keep the mission going—preserving and sharing the stories of those who served.

Join us once again for another FireSide Chat w/ the Crew as we gather around for a great conversation and an exciting announcement. Tonight’s episode brings some news many of us have been waiting for — SgtMaj (Ret.) Mark O'Loughlin has officially completed his book, and it is set to be released next week.   Mark has shared many great stories and lessons from his time in service over the years, and now those experiences have been brought together in his new book. During this episode, we talk about the journey of writing the book, what listeners can expect when it releases, and why preserving these stories is so important.   Be sure to tune in, join the conversation, and hear all about the upcoming release. It’s another great night around the fire with the Crew you won’t want to miss.

Marine Corps Veteran Christian Flores grew up in California where he stayed active playing sports, running track, and developing a passion for music by learning and performing on several instruments. Like many young people, he faced challenges along the way, but he was fortunate to have strong mentors and good people in his life who helped guide him in the right direction. As his musical abilities continued to grow, Christian caught the attention of a Marine musician who encouraged him to audition for the United States Marine Corps. That moment sparked a new path, and he decided joining the Marine Corps might be exactly what he needed. During his time in the Marine Corps, Christian focused on doing his job well and staying out of trouble, often joking that his main goal was simply to avoid getting his butt chewed out. However, that dedication to doing things the right way quickly set him apart from his peers and helped him rise through the ranks. Through hard work and leadership, he eventually became a Marine Band Officer, leading Marine musical units around the world and representing the Corps with pride and professionalism. Don’t miss this incredible story of service, music, and leadership.

James Ridenour, Navy Veteran, had a fairly difficult upbringing in Oklahoma. With several family members who had served in the military, James knew he needed a change of direction before heading down the wrong path. Determined to build a better future, he chose to join the United States Navy and see the world. During his time in the Navy, James worked in aviation support, preparing pilots for flight by ensuring all of their safety gear, including parachutes and flight equipment, was properly inspected and ready for use. It was a job that required precision, responsibility, and trust, knowing that a pilot’s life could depend on the work done behind the scenes. After serving aboard several ships and completing his time in the Navy, James decided it was time to return home to Oklahoma, bringing with him the lessons, discipline, and experiences gained during his service.

Join us for a great conversation with Air Force veteran David Bradford as he shares the story of his unique journey through military service and beyond. Growing up as an Air Force brat, David was inspired by his father’s service and eventually chose to follow in his footsteps by joining the United States Air Force. Working in Administration, he quickly proved himself through his dedication and professionalism, eventually being hand-picked for an assignment overseas. After serving his country, David stepped away from the Air Force for a time before returning once again to continue his service. Ultimately deciding it was time for a new chapter in life, he transitioned out of the military again and pursued higher education. David went on to become a college professor, teaching at several universities across the country. His passion for learning and enthusiasm for teaching made a lasting impact on the many students who passed through his classrooms. Don’t miss this episode as David reflects on service, change, and the drive to keep moving forward in life. 🎙️ Real stories. Real veterans. Real conversations. 🔥 Stay motivated. 🧦 And as always… change your socks.

Join us for another great episode of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew as we gather around for a relaxed conversation filled with stories, laughs, and a few lessons learned along the way. This week the Crew dives into a mix of topics from the veteran community, sharing perspectives from their time in service and discussing some of the things veterans experience after hanging up the uniform. As always, you never quite know where the conversation will go—but that’s what makes these chats so much fun. Expect plenty of sea stories, some good-natured ribbing between the Crew, and the kind of honest conversation that only happens when veterans get together and start talking. So grab your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and join us around the fire for another episode of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew.

Tune in for Part 4 of Army Veteran Robin DeLeon as he continues sharing his incredible veteran story. Throughout his journey, Robin faced many twists and turns, but one constant remained—his drive toward the medical field and helping others. The experience and expertise he gained over the years prepared him for the leadership roles he would eventually step into. Known for always striving to improve the mission and those around him, Robin pushed himself and his fellow soldiers to be better every day. His dedication to leadership, service, and mentorship helped shape the teams he worked with and the people he led. Don’t miss this episode as Robin continues sharing the next chapter of his unique and inspiring story.

Tune in for the latest FireSide Chat with the Crew as we welcome Adam Castillo to the show to talk about his new book. A Marine Corps Veteran, Adam took the drive and determination he developed in the military and applied it to finding success in the civilian job market. Using the lessons he learned along the way, he discovered how veterans can remain relevant, competitive, and effective after transitioning out of the service. Now he’s sharing those insights with others through his book and conversations like this one. Join us as Adam sits down with the Crew for a great discussion about leadership, transition, and the lessons that can help veterans succeed beyond the uniform. Don’t miss this great episode of FireSide Chat with the Crew. "Finding Our Voice: A Story of Leadership in Crisis and the American Spirit Abroad" Get your copy now!

Tune in for a great conversation with Navy veteran OB Brewer as he shares his unique journey through military service and beyond. Growing up in Southeast Oklahoma, OB had a solid upbringing that helped shape his work ethic early on. With a background in construction, he made the decision to join the Navy and became a Seabee, where that skillset was put to the test in real-world conditions. Throughout his career, OB spent the majority of his time overseas, grinding day in and day out—often working seven days a week alongside his fellow Seabees. His story is one of hard work, dedication, and the kind of resilience that only comes from living it. Don’t miss this episode as OB brings his experiences to the table, sharing lessons learned, challenges faced, and the reality of life in the Seabees. 🎙️ Real stories. Real veterans. Real conversations. 🔥 Stay motivated. 🧦 Change your socks.

Janeen Baggette, Air Force Veteran, had a unique and meaningful career that began in the medical field. Serving in both the Reserve and on Active Duty, she later became attached to an AeroVac unit, where she played a vital role caring for wounded service members. During that time, she was deployed in support of Desert Storm, serving overseas in Kuwait. After returning home and completing her time in service, Janeen continued her commitment to helping others by beginning a career in law enforcement. Her dedication to service didn’t stop there. She eventually founded K9s for Veterans, an organization focused on bringing specially trained dogs into the law enforcement community as companions to help locate and assist individuals who have survived traumatic events. Janeen’s story is one of sacrifice, compassion, and continued service long after the uniform comes off. To learn more about her work, visit k9sforveterans.org.

Roger Thurber, Marine Corps Veteran, grew up in eastern Oklahoma where he enjoyed a good childhood that helped shape his strong work ethic from an early age. After joining the Marine Corps, Roger carried that same dedication into his service. Though his time in the Corps was relatively short, it was productive, and he made it a point to show everyone around him just how hard he was willing to work. Following his military service, Roger returned home to Oklahoma where he focused on what mattered most—his family—working hard to provide for them and do right by those closest to him. Tune in to hear Roger’s story and the values that guided him through service and life afterward.

Join us for another great FireSide Chat with the Crew as we sit down to talk about the journeys, challenges, and experiences that shape the lives of those who have served. Growing up, many of us faced different obstacles and turning points that helped guide us toward military service. During this episode, the crew reflects on the paths that led to joining the armed forces, the mentors and influences that helped along the way, and the lessons learned during those formative years. From the early days of figuring things out, to learning discipline, responsibility, and leadership, the conversation highlights how service in the military can shape a person’s life in ways they never expected. Tune in as the crew shares stories, laughs, and real conversations about service, growth, and the experiences that continue to bring veterans together long after the uniform comes off. You won’t want to miss this episode.

Get ready for an exciting and informative FireSide Chat. This episode features the founders of the non-profit Fox Bravo Overland as they join us to talk about their mission and what their organization is all about. Paul Zambelli, Marine Corps Veteran, and Greg Walton, Army Veteran, are two outstanding examples of the leadership our veteran community needs. Through Fox Bravo Overland, they are building something meaningful that gives back to fellow veterans and continues the spirit of service beyond the uniform. You won’t want to miss this great conversation as we dive into their story, their mission, and the impact they are making. Be sure to tune in for this episode of FireSide Chat. fboverland.com

Army Veteran Jimmy Owens is the definition of motivation and resilience. From skydiving at 85 years young to continuing to inspire fellow veterans, Jimmy proves that determination and spirit never fade. Jimmy joined the Army with one goal in mind—he wanted to jump out of airplanes. Even though he was a little on the light side and once found himself stuck in a tree during a jump, he pushed through the challenges and ultimately earned his wings. Later in life, Jimmy faced a traumatic car accident that resulted in the loss of his leg. It was a difficult chapter that could have stopped many people in their tracks, but Jimmy refused to stay down. During that time, meeting his wife became a turning point that helped him push forward and continue his recovery. After his military service, Jimmy dedicated many years to education and ultimately retired from teaching as a principal in Oklahoma, continuing his commitment to guiding and inspiring others. This is a compelling and honest story from a true American patriot. You won’t want to miss this one.

During this important Medal of Honor Day, members of the Marine Corps League Albert E. Schwab Detachment 857 visited local gravesites to pay their respects to those who have passed on and are no longer with us to share in the celebration of their sacrifice to this great nation. Taking time to stand at their resting places, we honored their courage, their service, and the legacy they left behind. Their actions remind us that freedom has always come at a price, and it is our duty to never forget those who gave so much. Today, and every day, we remember them. 🇺🇸

If you missed the live airing of the Medal of Honor Day Ceremony with the Marine Corps League Charles E. Schwab Detachment 857, here is your chance to watch and honor the incredible warriors who have been forever etched into history by earning our nation’s highest military award. Their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty represent the very best of what this country stands for. While we take time each year to recognize Medal of Honor Day, the truth is that their legacy is something we should remember and celebrate every single day. Take a moment, watch the ceremony, and join us in honoring these heroes who have become part of our nation’s living history. 🇺🇸

Listen to the story of Robbie Farrell, Army Veteran, who grew up in the small country town of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, where life was simple and close to home. After graduating high school alongside her sister, the two made the decision to join the Army together. Initially trained as administrators, they were later sent overseas where they were trained and served as switchboard operators, playing an important role in keeping communications running. Following her time in service, Robbie returned home to Oklahoma and settled back into the slower pace of small-town country life, carrying with her the memories and experiences from her time in the Army.  

Welcome back Army Veteran Robin DeLeon as he shares more great stories from his time in service. Robin has a unique and entertaining way of telling stories that brings his experiences to life, making them both meaningful and fun to listen to. His storytelling captures the moments, lessons, and memories that come with serving in the military. You won’t want to miss this continuation of his veteran story. Be sure to tune in and enjoy another round of great stories from Robin’s time in uniform.

Fireside Chat with the Crew – Tonight    Tonight we’re gathering around the virtual fire once again for another episode of Fireside Chat with the Crew. These conversations are all about real talk, real experiences, and the stories that veterans carry with them long after the uniform comes off.   Whether it’s lessons learned in service, challenges faced after coming home, or the humor that keeps us all going, this is a place where the conversation is honest and the stories matter.   So grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and join us as we keep the tradition alive—sharing stories, supporting one another, and preserving the voices of those who served.  

🔥 Fireside Chat with the Crew 🔥 Pull up a chair and settle in for another powerful episode of Fireside Chat with the Crew. This week, we’re bringing real conversations, real experiences, and the kind of honest perspective you only get when veterans sit down and talk without a script. From lessons learned in service to the challenges and victories that come after, this episode dives into leadership, resilience, and the stories that don’t always make it into the spotlight. Expect some laughs, a little grit, and insights that hit home whether you served or not.

Navy veteran Dan Gross returns to continue his incredible story. After being stationed in San Diego, Dan deployed multiple times, earning recognition for his hard work while also facing his fair share of trials and tribulations along the way. Through it all, he learned valuable lessons from the leaders around him—both good and bad—and began developing his own leadership style. After being encouraged to apply for the highly competitive Seaman to Admiral Program, Dan was ultimately selected, earning the opportunity to return to the fleet as a Navy officer. However, life had other plans. Due to unexpected circumstances, Dan was forced to cut his Navy career short after just over eight years of service. Don’t miss Part 2 of this powerful and inspiring Navy journey as Dan reflects on leadership, perseverance, and the lessons learned along the way.

Tune in for a powerful and inspiring story from Navy Veteran Anthony “Token Squid” Price. Growing up in an incredibly small town, Anthony knew early on that he wanted more. He wanted to leave, to explore, to see the world. The Navy seemed like the perfect path. Ironically, his journey to “see the world” started just 500 miles from home. But as many veterans know, it’s not just about geography — it’s about growth. After his time in service, Anthony’s mission took an unexpected turn when he participated in a motorcycle ride with the Gold Star Ride Foundation. What began as a ride quickly became something much bigger. Witnessing firsthand the strength of Gold Star Families — and the importance of standing beside them — changed him. That moment wasn’t just impactful. It became his calling. Since then, Anthony has logged countless miles across the country, riding to support Gold Star Families, raise awareness, and help generate funding for those who have sacrificed the most. His passion is real. His commitment is relentless. And his mission is clear. Don’t miss this incredible conversation as he shares how one opportunity turned into a lifelong purpose. An inspiring example for veterans and civilians alike. goldstarride.org

Dan Gross, Navy Veteran, shares a candid look at growing up, getting into trouble, and realizing he needed discipline in his life. He figured the Marines were a little too hard-core for him. The Air Force told him he had too much baggage. Army green just didn’t look right on him. And growing up landlocked, the Coast Guard wasn’t even on his radar. That left one clear choice — the United States Navy. After boot camp, Dan trained as a specialized electrician and was eventually assigned to one of the Navy’s smaller ships. But getting there wasn’t completely smooth sailing. A few missteps along the way nearly derailed his arrival — yet through persistence and determination, he made it to his ship and began carving out his place in the fleet. Don’t miss Part 1 of his veteran story as he shares his unique and entertaining introduction to Navy life.

Join us this week for another FireSide Chat with the Crew, where the conversation is relaxed, the stories are real, and the camaraderie feels just like sitting around the fire with fellow veterans and friends. Each week the Crew gets together to talk about current events, life after the military, leadership lessons, and the everyday experiences that continue to shape us long after service. There’s always plenty of laughs, a few sea stories, and honest conversations that only happen when veterans get together. Whether you served, support those who did, or just enjoy hearing authentic stories and perspectives, pull up a chair and join the conversation. Grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy this week’s FireSide Chat with the Crew.

Tune in for a little behind-the-scenes look at what happens after the cameras stop rolling. During the latest FireSide Chat, the conversation kept going once the recording ended—and the discussion was just too good not to share. So we decided to bring you some of the insight, laughs, and honest conversation that normally happens in the after show. Sometimes the best conversations are the ones that weren’t originally planned. Hope you enjoy this extra look behind the scenes.

Join the Crew and AJ as they sit down with these special guests for a relaxed evening of stories, laughs, and the kind of conversations that naturally happen whenever veterans get together. It’s a chance to hear about leadership, camaraderie, and the shared experiences that keep the brotherhood strong. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite drink, and enjoy another great FireSide Chat.

George Chester grew up in Poteau, Oklahoma, where he enjoyed a good childhood rooted in small-town values. In 1954, after finishing school, he chose to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, training as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate. After completing his initial enlistment, George decided to step away from military life — but it didn’t take long for him to realize the Navy was where he belonged. He reenlisted and continued building his career in naval aviation. Over time, he became a loadmaster with a C-130 squadron, logging countless hours flying in and out of Vietnam. His role required precision, responsibility, and trust — ensuring aircraft were properly loaded and missions were executed safely in a demanding operational environment. After years of dedicated service, George retired from the Navy as a Chief Petty Officer — a testament to his leadership, experience, and commitment to those he served alongside.