Tuxes & Tomahawks Podcast

🎙 Free Speech, Retaliation, and the Cost of Integrity | Erik Holt's Story   After 18 years in federal service, Erik Holt became Fire Chief of a small rural Colorado department in 2022. In less than a year, he helped grow the department from 5 to over 60 trained firefighters with the support of a dedicated board and community.   Everything changed after the May 2023 election, when all five board seats were up for vote. Following citizen complaints, Erik reviewed surveillance footage and uncovered clear evidence of coordinated election misconduct. Fulfilling his legal and moral duty, he reported it to the District Attorney. The individuals under investigation were then sworn in as the new board. They immediately ordered Erik to delete the surveillance footage. He refused.   Days later, the board illegally froze the department's bank accounts, disrupting emergency services and payroll, then fired Erik for refusing to destroy evidence. Erik filed a federal lawsuit citing First Amendment protections for reporting corruption. While the court acknowledged wrongdoing, it ruled his actions were part of his job and not constitutionally protected, dismissing the case before a jury could hear it. Even more disturbing, Erik uncovered deep corruption within the District Attorney's Office.   The defense attorney hired to represent the accused conspirators was the father of the DA's second in command. Just days after being hired, the investigation into election fraud was abruptly shut down. Now Erik is fighting back. He is currently on appeal to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals after exhausting over $150,000 of personal funds.   This case sends a dangerous message: speak up against corruption and you may lose your career and your constitutional rights.   📂 Case Dockets Federal Case (U.S. District Court – Colorado): 👉 1:23-cv-01798   Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals 👉 25-1159   📲 Follow & Support Erik Holt    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justiceforholt   (Twitter): https://x.com/JusticeForHolt TikTok:   / justiceforholt     💰 Legal Defense & Support GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/free-speec...   GiveSendGo: https://www.givesendgo.com/JusticeFor...   If you believe in: ✔ Free speech ✔ Protecting whistleblowers ✔ Government accountability ✔ Due process ✔ Ethical leadership   Please share Erik's story and support the fight for constitutional rights. Integrity should never cost someone their career.

Episode 76 | How Homegrown Terrorists Are Created with Dr. Richard J. Hughbank (Major, U.S. Army Retired) What turns an ordinary American into a terrorist? In Episode 76 of Tuxes & Tomahawks, I sit down with Dr. Richard J. Hughbank, retired U.S. Army Major, terrorism expert, author, professor, former military police officer, and someone who personally shaped my leadership journey as my Squadron Commander for CS-18 at the United States Air Force Academy. Dr. Hughbank's groundbreaking book, "The Dynamics of Terror and Creation of Homegrown Terrorists: Volume 1, Second Edition," pulls back the curtain on how radicalization really happens inside the United States. Not through sudden ideology shifts. Not through foreign influence alone. Through a slow, human process rooted in fractured identity, emotional vulnerability, social pressure, narrative manipulation, and moral disengagement. This episode explores his powerful Fracture-to-Fusion Radicalization Model (FFRM), a framework that maps the step by step journey from personal fracture to full ideological fusion where violence becomes acceptable. He also introduces the FFRM Terrorist Variant (FFRM-TV), showing how this same pathway fuels extremist violence across ideologies, cultures, ages, and backgrounds. We break down: • Why terrorism is a human process, not just an ideological one • How identity fractures create openings for radicalization • The role of grievance, belonging, online communities, and emotional manipulation • How ordinary people are gradually conditioned toward violence • Real-world case studies, including the ISIS-inspired 2015 Garland, Texas attack • Why most prevention efforts fail by focusing too late in the process • How early intervention can disrupt radicalization before it turns deadly This conversation challenges the common narrative that terrorism is something that happens "over there." Dr. Hughbank makes it clear that the most dangerous radicalization often happens right here at home, quietly, over time, within communities that never see it coming. This isn't theory. This isn't politics. This is the reality of how extremism is built. If you care about national security, community safety, free societies, or understanding the real roots of violence, this episode is a must-listen.

Rugged individualism is not a slogan. It is a responsibility. This episode exemplifies what real American leadership and innovation actually look like. In Episode 75, I sit down with AG, CEO of Toehold, to talk about building from nothing, leading through uncertainty, and taking ownership when the stakes are real. This conversation is about the kind of leadership that does not wait for permission, does not hide behind excuses, and does not fold under pressure. American innovation was never born from comfort or consensus. It was built by people willing to take risks, solve real problems, and stand first when others hesitated. AG's story is a case study in that mindset. Create value. Take responsibility. Leave something stronger behind.No hype. No shortcuts. Just grit, accountability, and leadership the way it used to be done. Episode 75 is live.

Blake Jones, a Catholic student and leader in Turning Point USA at Colorado State University, experienced hostile reactions while writing Bible verses with chalk on a public plaza during a campus protest. He says he was harassed and spat on by another student amid ideological clashes. This episode unpacks faith, free speech, ideological conflict on campus, and what this moment says about modern college culture.

Adam DeRito has worn many uniforms in service to others. He has served as an Army Reserve officer, an intelligence analyst deployed to the Middle East, a firefighter and first responder, an oil and gas professional working to protect America's energy security, a Colorado farmer who understands the struggles facing rural families, and a substitute Catholic school teacher dedicated to forming the next generation of young Americans. Every chapter of Adam's life has been shaped by responsibility and fortified by resilience. Colorado's 8th District is facing real challenges. Energy uncertainty, pressure on local farms, rising costs, overloaded roads, veterans who cannot access care, and a political class that has forgotten who they work for. Adam is stepping forward to restore accountability, revive our local economy, support our agricultural communities, defend our energy workers, and stand firmly with the families who call District 8 home. With an introduction from Aaron Love, one of America's most respected Pararescuemen, this campaign launch is a call to action for all who believe in service, truth, and courage. Together we can save Colorado's 8th District and build a future worthy of the people who live here. Join Team DeRito and be part of a movement grounded in service to solutions. Learn More: www.deritoforcongress.com Follow the Campaign: X: @DeRito4Congress Instagram: @DeRitoForCongress Facebook: DeRito For Congress #TeamDeRito #CO08 #VeteransForDeRito #EnergyStrong #FarmersForDeRito #ServiceToSolutions #DeRitoForCongress

🎙 *Episode 73 — Christopher Hill: Redefining Travel Through Luxury and Purpose* In this transformative episode of *Tuxes & Tomahawks**, we're joined by **Christopher Hill**, the visionary founder behind **Hands Up Holidays* and **Impact Destinations**, two groundbreaking travel brands that merge **luxury experiences with meaningful philanthropy**. Based in New Zealand with his wife, two boys, and their dog Zola, Christopher serves a largely US-based clientele who are seeking more than just another vacation. His mission is to reshape the way people travel — blending high-end comfort with hands-on opportunities to create lasting impact in communities around the world. We explore: 🌍 How Christopher built a **global movement that fuses luxury travel with service and purpose**. 🧠 The inspiration behind launching *Hands Up Holidays* and **Impact Destinations**, and how he turned a personal calling into a thriving international enterprise. ✈️ Real stories of travelers who combined **volunteering with unforgettable adventures**, changing both their lives and the lives of those they served. 🧭 Why modern travelers are increasingly seeking *transformational experiences* rather than just destinations. 💡 How purposeful travel can inspire leadership, empathy, and a broader sense of global responsibility. Christopher's work reminds us that **true luxury isn't just about where you stay — it's about the legacy you leave behind**. His story is a powerful example of entrepreneurship guided by values, and a call to action for anyone looking to make their journeys matter. 🔗 *Listen now* on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.   #TuxesAndTomahawks #LuxuryTravel #Philanthropy #PurposeDrivenTravel #ImpactDestinations #HandsUpHolidays #Leadership #GlobalCitizenship #Podcast #ChristopherHill

🎙️ Episode 72: "The Marine Who Wouldn't Stay Silent" — Andrés H. Cáceres In this gripping episode, we sit down with Dr. Andrés H. Cáceres, a former U.S. Marine officer who refused to be silent when truth and integrity were on the line. From the battlefields of Iraq and the southern Philippines to the front lines of Fukushima's disaster relief, Andrés built a career defined by courage and service. But his greatest fight came not against an enemy abroad — it came from within the institution he swore to defend. While assigned to NATO Headquarters in the Netherlands from 2013 to 2015, Cáceres warned of the Taliban's resurgence, the weakness of the Afghan National Army, the rise of ISIS, and Russian maneuvering ahead of the 2014 invasion of Ukraine. His warnings were ignored. His reports destroyed. And when he refused to back down, the command retaliated — fabricating charges, destroying his reputation, and stripping him of his security clearance. He was accused of mutiny, disobedience, and harassment — accusations that would later unravel when the same officers who lied against him confessed to fabrications. Yet, despite clear evidence of perjury and falsified medical records, the Department of the Navy refuses to make it right. Now a Ph.D. in International Law, a researcher on the law of armed conflict, and a youth soccer coach, Andrés continues to fight — this time for truth, accountability, and justice for those who wear the uniform with honor. This is not just a story of military injustice. It's a story about what happens when good men tell the truth — and the system tries to destroy them for it.   #TuxesAndTomahawks #DeRitoAct #MilitaryJustice #Whistleblower #Veterans #TruthMatters #AndresCaceres #USMC

🎙️ Episode 71 — Arvis Owens: Fighting for Justice in Uniform Arvis Owens, a 1995 U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Navy Commander, was falsely accused and wrongly convicted of sexual assault. Today, he's exposing how the military justice system strips service members of basic rights civilians take for granted: no probable cause, no unanimous juries, no access to evidence, and no innocence projects. His story is a powerful call for due process, truth, and reform. ⚖️ Real victims deserve justice. So do the wrongly accused.  #TuxesAndTomahawks #Episode71 #MilitaryJustice #DueProcess #Veterans #InnocenceProject #JusticeForAll 

🎙️ Episode 70: Brady Knowlton — Building Businesses, Wrestling Catfish, and Living Without a Comfort Zone On this episode of *Tuxes and Tomahawks*, we sit down with Brady Knowlton, a man whose life is anything but ordinary. A proud graduate of Southern Methodist University and the University of Denver Law School, Brady has spent over 20 years driving strategic investments in the oil & gas sector as Executive Vice President at Monarch Financial. But boardrooms are just one arena he thrives in. Brady is a serial entrepreneur who has built companies across energy, technology, real estate, finance—and even a thriving restaurant in Mexico. Beyond the balance sheets, Brady is a fearless adventurer. His campaign to legalize handfishing in Texas landed him on Animal Planet's *Catfishin' Kings*. He has freedived, spearfished, and explored 60 countries, often pushing the limits in some of the world's most dangerous waters. He's lived in tents for over a year in Africa, wrestled giant catfish, and carries with him the traditions of Native American mentors from Oklahoma. His storytelling, honed through *The World's Most Interesting Podcast*, is fueled by these wild experiences. Fluent in Spanish and armed with a global perspective, Brady's voice carries lessons of perseverance, cultural fluency, and the courage to face risk head-on. Brady has also endured wrongful prosecution as a January 6 defendant, yet continues to advocate for truth, integrity, and resilience. This conversation isn't just about business or adventure—it's about embracing life fully, refusing to play it safe, and learning from challenges both in and out of the spotlight. 📌 *Where others see risk, Brady sees the next frontier. Tune in to hear why.*

🎙️ Episode 69 — From the Crescent to the Cross: Ismail Youssef's Journey to Christ On this gripping episode of Tuxes and Tomahawks, we sit down with Ismail Youssef—a former devout Muslim who risked everything to follow Christ and now stands as a bold Catholic witness to the power of truth, grace, and courage. Born into Islam and raised in a culture where conversion is often met with rejection or worse, Ismail's story isn't just about leaving a religion—it's about discovering a Person. From his earliest questions about God to his ultimate embrace of the Catholic Church, this is a raw, unfiltered conversation about faith, freedom, and the cost of discipleship. We talk about: What drew him to the Gospel after years of Islamic devotion How the Catholic Church offered the fullness of truth The emotional, theological, and cultural battles of conversion Why clarity and charity must go hand-in-hand when evangelizing Muslims The dangers of watered-down witness—and the call to bold truth in a confused world Ismail doesn't shy away from the hard topics—Islam, Catholicism, identity, persecution, mission. But every word is delivered with grace, love, and an unmistakable fire for the Gospel. If you've ever wondered what it really means to take up your cross, this episode will leave you humbled, inspired, and challenged to live your faith louder. This is not just testimony. It's a call to arms. 📍 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and wherever you stream.

We are back again this week with an important update about Cadet Joseph Fernau. The United States Air Force Academy is disenrolling Cadet Fernau, charging him over $240,000 after claims of sexual assault by a self-identified transgender Cadet were found unfounded by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. It was discovered in the evidence that this person lied and made a false official statement. They were never held accountable and are intentionally trying to destroy Joe's life. His chain of command picked USAFA politics over integrity. More details are revealed of a chain of command at the Air Force Academy that do not uphold the standards we expect of military commanders, and clear violations of case precedent. Cadet Fernau is appealing to the Secretary of the Air Force to overturn the Superintendent's decision, and we fully support his efforts of seeking justice in Colorado Springs so he can finish his degree and become a commissioned officer. We need everyone involved. Voice your concerns and demand justice for Cadet Fernau by calling these offices and demanding action NOW! Congressman Jeff Crank CO -5: (202) 225-4422 Congresswoman Lauren Boebert CO-4: (202) 225-4761 Air Force Public Inquiries: 703-697-3039 #SecWar #SecAF #USecAF #USECAF #SecAFOfficial @SecWar @SecAFOfficial @matthewlohmeier

🇺🇸✈️🇮🇪🇬🇧 Touchdown in Ireland and the UK and let me tell you, this trip hits different. I'm not here just to snap pics of castles or sip pints in pubs. I'm here to sit with workers, farmers, students, and families in Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, and London to hear what life is really like. The stories are raw, unfiltered, and real. People are worried about jobs, culture, and the future of their kids, but they're also proud, resilient, and ready to fight for what matters. 🎙 At Trump Doonbeg, I'm teaming up with the Irish Political Roundup to make sure these voices are heard loud and clear. Alliances aren't just made between presidents and parliaments. They're built when real people connect, share struggles, and back each other up. That's how America, Ireland, and the UK can stand strong together. From the streets of Belfast to the energy of Dublin, from the history of Edinburgh to the pulse of London, the message is the same. Protect what makes us who we are, and never let our culture or freedom slip away. This isn't just a trip, it's a movement. And you're coming along for the ride. Stay tuned, what we're building here will echo across the Atlantic. 🌍🔥 #Ireland #UK #Scotland #NorthernIreland #England #TrumpDoonbeg #IrishPoliticalRoundup #AmericanInIreland #CelticConnections #DublinCity #BelfastLife #LondonCalling #VisitScotland #YoungVoices #CultureMatters #ProtectOurFuture #StrongerTogether #BuildingBridges #GlobalAllies #AmericanAbroad #PodcastLife #NextGenLeadership #UnitedWeStand #HistoryInTheMaking

🎙️ Episode 67: The Mission Isn't Over – Colonel George Markert's Next Battle: The U.S. Senate In Episode 67 of Tuxes & Tomahawks, host Adam DeRito sits down with a true warrior, patriot, and visionary leader: Colonel George Markert, USMC (Ret.). With over 30 years of global service, Colonel Markert's career reads like a living history of America's modern military operations—from East Timor to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Horn of Africa. But now, this decorated Marine is answering a new call: to serve the people of Colorado in the United States Senate. Born in Virginia Beach and forged through three decades of leadership under fire, Colonel Markert's record is unmatched. He led logistics and combat operations across five continents, supported operations following 9/11, commanded battalions in the fight against terrorism, and served as a strategic advisor inside U.S. Central Command. His personal decorations—among them the Bronze Star, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit—reflect not just courage under fire, but principled, results-driven leadership at the highest levels of national defense. But Colonel Markert's dedication didn't stop at retirement. He recently served as Director of Operations for GeoStabilization International, applying military precision to safeguard America's critical infrastructure. With four master's degrees—from Penn State to the Naval War College—this is a man who understands strategy, economics, and security from both the battlefield and the boardroom. Now, Colonel Markert is stepping into the arena once again—this time to fight for Coloradans fed up with career politicians, weak borders, crumbling infrastructure, and a federal government that has lost touch with real American values. With a proven record of service, sacrifice, and strategic leadership, George Markert is the statesman Colorado needs to restore honor, accountability, and strength in Washington. Why He's the Right Senator for Colorado: He has defended America abroad—he'll defend Colorado at home. He brings unmatched executive and crisis leadership from the Pentagon to the Pacific. He understands both national security and economic security—and he knows how to lead in both. He's not a politician. He's a Marine. He's a builder. He's a fighter. And he's just getting started. 🎧 Tune in now to hear why Colonel George Markert is ready to be Colorado's next great senator—and how his mission to serve has only just begun. #TuxesAndTomahawks #VeteranLeadership #AmericaFirst #GeorgeMarkert #ColoradoSenate #MilitaryToMission #SemperFiSenator #FaithFamilyFreedom #DeRitoForDemocracy

🎙️ Episode 66: From Battlefield to Heartsville: A Marine Colonel's Mission to Resettle Ukraine's Best and Brightest In this gripping episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, host Adam DeRito sits down with Colonel Curtis Lee, USMC (Ret.), a decorated Marine with 29 years of service spanning Operation Provide Comfort, OIF, and OEF. But his mission didn't end with retirement—it evolved into a fight for hope, dignity, and opportunity for families fleeing war. As Chair of Carolinas for Ukraine (C4U) in Hartsville, SC, Col Lee has led a groundbreaking grassroots effort to resettle 30 Ukrainians—integrating them into a rural American town of just 7,500. In a candid conversation, Col Lee unpacks how this tight-knit community welcomed these families with open arms, and how Ukrainians became thriving neighbors, workers, entrepreneurs, and contributors to local schools, churches, and charities. But the clock is ticking. Col Lee exposes the unintended crisis brewing as the expiration of humanitarian parole and work authorizations looms—threatening to cast these hardworking newcomers into undocumented limbo, or force them to flee once more. He argues for a common-sense extension of legal protections that would keep America's door open to talented, vetted refugeesbolstering communities across the country. 🪖 Key Highlights: How a Marine colonel leveraged his civil affairs and logistics experience to build a model for successful refugee resettlement Why bipartisan support is essential for a blanket extension of Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) humanitarian parole Lessons learned from Afghanistan's chaotic evacuation—and what they taught Col Lee about resettling people from war zones The economic and cultural benefits Ukrainians have brought to rural South Carolina—and why America should replicate this success story nationwide A frank discussion on immigration policy, conservative principles, and balancing compassion with security. 🌎 Why It Matters: With 240,000 Ukrainians resettled across the U.S. under U4U, the stakes are high not just for these individuals—but for America's identity as a nation of opportunity. Col Lee makes a powerful case that extending their legal status isn't just the right thing to do—it's the smart thing. 🔥 About Our Guest: Col Curtis Lee is a retired Marine colonel who commanded logistics and civil affairs units across three decades of service, including combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. A veteran of charitable missions in Africa and Asia, he now channels his leadership into transforming rural communities at home. Proving that service doesn't stop at the uniform's edge. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite streaming platform and learn how one Marine's post-service mission is reshaping America's heartland.

🚨 **EPISODE 65: LT Kegan "SMURF" Gill — Phoenix Rising** 🚨   🎙️ Dive into the incredible story of LT Kegan "SMURF" Gill, USN (Ret.), a former Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet pilot who survived the **fastest ejection in naval aviation history — at 695 mph.** 🚀   Despite **severe injuries, 13 surgeries, PTSD, and a traumatic brain injury**, Kegan's journey didn't end with survival. He faced years of darkness, but through **holistic therapies** — including **psychedelic-assisted treatments** — he discovered a path to profound healing.   Today, Kegan is a **motivational speaker, author, coach, and family man**, dedicated to inspiring others to conquer their own challenges. His memoir, *Phoenix Revival: The Aftermath of Naval Aviation's Fastest Survived Ejection*, reveals a raw, honest account of pain, perseverance, and ultimate transformation.   🔥 In this episode of **Tuxes & Tomahawks**, you'll hear: ✅ What it's like to eject at nearly Mach 1 — and survive. ✅ The brutal reality of injuries, surgeries, and battling PTSD. ✅ How innovative treatments are changing lives for veterans. ✅ Why faith, family, and resilience matter more than ever.   📚 **ORDER THE BOOK**: *Phoenix Revival* — a must-read memoir for anyone facing life's toughest battles.    🎧 **LISTEN NOW**: Episode 65 of Tuxes & Tomahawks — streaming wherever you get your podcasts!   👉 Follow Kegan on Instagram: @kegansmurfgill  for more stories of courage, recovery, and hope.   #Veterans #MentalHealth #Resilience #PhoenixRevival #FighterPilot #PTSDRecovery #MilitaryPodcast #TuxesAndTomahawks  

🎙️ EP64: Scott Bottoms – Faith. Fire. Fearless. Colorado Rep. 🇺🇸 | Pastor 🙏 | GOP Gov Race Candidate 🏛️ From the pulpit to the Capitol—and now vying for Colorado's top job—@repscottbottoms brings 🔥 and truth in a time when both are under attack. He launched his 2026 gubernatorial bid early this year, declaring a mission to combat "reckless spending, rising crime, and failing schools," and introducing his plan for a "Department of Governmental Efficiency" (D.O.G.E.) to bring transparency to tax dollars 💰  We dig deep into why he's running, what's next for Colorado, and why faith-driven leadership matters now more than ever. 🛡️ "You don't get to pick the consequences—but you do get to choose how to respond." 🎧 Listen now + catch all the campaign insights. 🔗 Link in bio. 🌐 scottbottoms.com 📲 Follow: @repscottbottoms @scottbottomsco #FaithAndFreedom #ScottBottoms #Colorado2026 #TuxesAndTomahawks #ReclaimColorado #ConstitutionFirst #PastorInPolitics #GubernatorialRace #UnapologeticTruth  

🎙️ Episode 63: Joel White – Engineering Policy, Shaping Power 🏛️💊🧠 Tuxes & Tomahawks Podcast In the halls of Congress, behind closed doors in D.C.'s highest-stakes meetings, and across major healthcare policy battles—you'll find Joel White at the center of it all. In this high-impact episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with one of America's most trusted political strategists and policy architects. Joel White, founder and CEO of Horizon Government Affairs, has not only advised Congress and Fortune 100 companies—he's helped pass over 50 federal laws that affect millions of Americans. 🔍 In this episode, you'll discover: How Joel went from the Ways and Means Committee to the war rooms of national health reform What it takes to navigate the storm of Washington politics—and win The real story behind Medicare Part D, HSAs, and how policy is weaponized or wielded for good The inner workings of political coalitions, industry advocacy, and how power is truly brokered in America How his firm Horizon Government Affairs is reshaping the future of healthcare—and how that affects you Why policy expertise + strategic messaging = unstoppable influence Joel's mission to combat poverty and mental health stigma through his nonprofit work in Virginia Whether you're inside the Beltway or watching from a distance, this episode will leave you with a whole new appreciation for the people and strategies that shape our laws—and our lives. 💬 "Policy is where ideals become real. The question is: who's writing the rules?" – Joel White 🎧 Tune in for a masterclass in influence, strategy, and public service from one of the most respected minds in American politics. Follow Joel on X: @jwhite_health

🎙️ Episode 62: Morgan Lerette – Inside Blackwater: Guns, Girls, and Greed in Iraq 💣🕶️🇺🇸 Strap in for one of our most gripping episodes yet. This week on Tuxes and Tomahawks, we sit down with Morgan Lerette — author, Air Force vet, Army intelligence officer, and former Blackwater mercenary. From the deserts of Iraq to the halls of Tufts University, Morgan has lived the kind of story Hollywood couldn't invent. What You'll Hear: His wild ride from Air Force deployments to becoming a private military contractor in Iraq with Blackwater, the most infamous PMC on earth. Firsthand accounts of hundreds of combat missions — gunning, driving, and leading tactical teams in the chaos of post-invasion Iraq. The truth about PMCs, the power, the danger, and the blurred lines between military and corporate warfare. Protecting diplomats and aiding the Regime Crimes Liaison Office, gathering evidence used in the trial of Saddam Hussein. His transition from warfighter to Army intelligence officer leading HUMINT, SIGINT, and CI teams back in Iraq. Why he wrote Guns, Girls, and Greed — and what America needs to know about the privatization of war. How he narrowly missed the Boston Marathon bombing after completing the race in 2013. 🧠 🎖️ From battlefield to boardroom, Morgan exposes the gritty truth of modern warfare, corporate ambition, and the price of survival. 📚 Grab your copy of Guns, Girls, and Greed, and tune in now — because this is one story you won't believe until you hear it. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

🎙️ Episode 61: Miles Spencer — From Kayaks 🛶 to Capital 💰, a Life of Curiosity 🤔 and Courage 💥 In this episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with the endlessly fascinating Miles Spencer — a man who proves that curiosity isn't just a trait, it's a compass 🧭. Miles is a digital media entrepreneur 📱, angel investor 👼, and explorer 🌍 who co-created the trailblazing PBS show MoneyHunt — a pre-Shark Tank 🦈 staple that schooled entrepreneurs across America before reality TV got the memo. He's helped launch and grow companies that created over 1,100 jobs 👷‍♀️👨‍💻, advised founders for three decades ⏳, and raised two kids 👧🏉👦 who are learning that their dad is equal parts adventurer and sage. But this conversation goes way beyond the boardroom 🧳. From leading 1,500 people across open sea by kayak 🌊, to trekking 1,100 miles through Middle Eastern deserts 🐪, to writing the Amazon bestseller A Line in the Sand 📖🔥, Miles lives the kind of life that reads like an epic… and paints like one too 🎨. We talk mentorship 💬, startups 🚀, raising kids 🏡, life after the pandemic 😷➡️🌅, and why playing rugby with your son 🏉 or painting with your daughter 👩‍🎨 might be just as important as building your next company 💡. This is a story about how far questions can take you — if you're willing to stray from home 🏞️, put in the miles 🥾, and never stop asking ❓. 🎧 Tune in for: Business lessons from a pre-Shark Tank pitchmaster 💼 What kayaking and venture capital have in common 🛶💵 Raising kids and coaching startups (spoiler: not so different) 👨‍👧‍👦👨‍🏫 The art of starting over — and painting what you see 🎨🔁 How to live a life that's actually worth writing about ✍️🌟 📍 Whether you're in a business leader, adventurer, entrepreneur, or somewhere in between — this one's for the curious. Connect with Miles:  -Instagram: @ milesspencer - www.milesspencer.com

🎙️ Episode 60: Aaron "AG" Gregoroff – From Fugitive to Flip-Flop King 🇺🇸🥋🥿 What do you get when you mix a troubled past, a military contracting career, martial arts discipline, and an obsession with craftsmanship? You get Aaron Gregoroff—the man behind Toe Hold®, America's most badass luxury flip-flop brand. In Episode 60 of Tuxes & Tomahawks, AG sits down with us for an unfiltered, all-American redemption story that punches as hard as it inspires. 🔥 In this raw and riveting episode, you'll hear: How a busted pair of flip-flops in San Diego sparked a global search for perfection The journey from Okinawa's master leather artisans to crafting record-setting footwear in the USA AG's transformation from fugitive to founder, and why second chances matter Why Toe Hold® isn't just a sandal—it's a symbol of grit, honor, and American pride Behind the leather: sourcing, stitching, and the sacred process of building something that lasts How BJJ and martial arts philosophy shaped AG's leadership, recovery, and resilience Whether you're walking through fire or walking in hand-cut American leather, this story reminds you: your past doesn't define you—what you build next does. 💬 "Toe Hold isn't about sandals. It's about standing for something." 🧵 Made in America. Forged in adversity. Walk the path with AG. 🎧 Tap in. This one stays with you.   SHOP THE WORLD'S BEST FLIP FLOPS NOW! https://shoptoehold.com/pages/about-us  

🎙️ Episode 59: Christian Ray Flores – From Refugee to Renaissance Man 🇺🇸🌍🎧 Tuxes & Tomahawks Podcast This week on Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with Christian Ray Flores—a man whose life reads like a modern-day odyssey. From fleeing political unrest in Chile as a child refugee to becoming a chart-topping pop star in Eastern Europe… from boardrooms and startups to global mission fields—Christian's story is one of grit, faith, and unstoppable reinvention. 🎤 In this riveting episode, you'll hear: How Christian went from war-torn childhood to international fame—and why he walked away. His journey launching media ventures that blend storytelling, strategy, and soul. The secrets behind coaching elite CEOs, artists, and entrepreneurs to peak performance. Why resilience and reinvention are the cornerstones of every truly impactful life. His mission with Xponential and Third Drive Media to merge innovation with purpose. What drove him to write Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America—and why gratitude fuels greatness. Christian brings four languages, one faith, and a global mindset to everything he touches. Whether you're building a business, recovering from setbacks, or just trying to live more meaningfully—this conversation will ignite your purpose. 🧠 Leadership. Mindset. Mission. This episode has it all. 🎧 Listen now. And prepare to see your story through a whole new lens. Connect with Christian and elevate your life now! www.christianrayflores.com https://www.xponential.life/talk Grab the Book! https://www.amazon.com/Little-Book-Reasons-Love-America/dp/B0DQWVZN1H  

🎙️ Episode 58 – Government Gone Rogue: One Man's Battle Against FBI Corruption 🔥🇺🇸 In this jaw-dropping episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we uncover a harrowing tale of injustice, entrapment, and survival inside the belly of the American federal justice system. Our guest—an investigative reporter turned whistleblower—shares a firsthand account of how the FBI and DOJ shattered the Constitution to build a false narrative, destroy a man's life, and nearly cost him everything, including his life. 🎧 What You'll Hear: The real story behind the fabricated federal charges: pipe bombs, silencers, "militia ties," and more—all lies. How federal prosecutors exposed their own agents: stating clearly in court that there was no evidence of racism, extremism, or violence. A gut-wrenching story of torture and neglect at MDC Los Angeles—including a brutal beating, brain injury, and denied medical care. Why taking the case to trial was a life-threatening decision, and how fear of being killed behind bars shaped the path to justice. An inside look at the $5 million civil rights settlement after a separate investigation exposed destruction of critical evidence by the FBI and local law enforcement in a false child abuse case. The shocking reality: After all the smoke cleared, the U.S. government sent this man to a minimum-security camp with no fences, volleyball courts, and TVs in every room. 👁️ This isn't just a story—it's a warning. When federal power goes unchecked, when due process is replaced with press conferences and smear campaigns, the government becomes the accuser, judge, and executioner. 💥 If you care about truth, justice, and the future of American freedom, this is the episode that will shake you to your core. 🔗 Tune in now. And ask yourself—what would you do if the FBI came for you? #TuxesAndTomahawks #WrongfullyAccused #DOJCorruption #FBIWhistleblower #AmericanInjustice #StandForTruth #CivilRights #TacticalTruth #ExposeTheCorruption #PodcastAlert #DarkSabreProductions

🎙️ Episode 57 – Baker Leavitt: The Strategist Behind Black Rifle Coffee's Bold Rise 🇺🇸☕️🦅💼🔥 In this no-holds-barred episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with Baker Leavitt — the sharp-shooting 🤠, relationship-building 🤝, strategy-wielding 🧠 Director of Strategic Relations at Black Rifle Coffee Company. If you've ever wondered who helps steer the brand that fuels America's warriors and patriots ☕️💣 — look no further. Baker doesn't just connect dots — he builds alliances that move mountains ⛰️. From cutting-edge collabs 🧢 to veteran-driven missions 🎯, Baker has helped expand Black Rifle from a bold coffee brand to a cultural force 🇺🇸⚔️. An advocate for SmokelessVets, KillCliff, and a BitCoin guy, Baker lays down his expertise. 💥 In this high-octane convo, we cover: How Baker fuels BRCC's mission one handshake at a time 🤝🔥 His past ventures: CrossFit branding 🏋️‍♂️, sports recovery drinks 🧃, and outdoor storytelling 🦌📸 What it takes to keep a brand authentic in a world of filters and fluff 😎🧢 Why freedom, grit, and loyalty never go out of style 🦅🫡 Whether he's in the boardroom 💼, in the woods 🌲, or on the ground building veteran connections 🇺🇸, Baker Leavitt is a force — and this episode pulls no punches. 🎧 Lock in for Episode 57 of Tuxes & Tomahawks — where strategy meets soul, coffee meets country, and every story hits like a double shot of BRCC's boldest brew. 🚀☕️🇺🇸

EPISODE 56: CARL WHELESS 🎙️ Tuxes and Tomahawks — Episode 56 Title: From Marine to Tank Commander: The Carl Wheless Story 🇺🇸🔥 Description: In Episode 56 of Tuxes and Tomahawks, we sit down with the remarkable Carl Wheless — a Texas-born warrior whose life has been defined by service, sacrifice, and unshakable resolve. 💪 Carl's journey began in high school when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and took him from the sands of Okinawa to the battlefields of Iraq as an M1 Abrams Tank Commander. 🪖🚀 After 9/11, Carl felt the call to serve again, rejoining the military and deploying multiple times in defense of our nation. Despite being forced into medical retirement just shy of 20 years of active duty, Carl's fight didn't end. ⚖️ He's now taking on a new battle — a legal one — to receive the retirement benefits he earned through blood, sweat, and sacrifice. 🎯 Highlights: Enlisted in the Marine Corps while still in high school Served across Okinawa, Quantico, and Camp Lejeune Returned to military service post-9/11 as a Tank Gunner & Commander Deployed to Iraq in 2005 and 2007 🚓🔥 Battled for justice after being denied full retirement benefits Decorated with over 20 awards and medals 🏅🇺🇸 ✨ Awards Include: Meritorious Service Medal, Combat Action Badge, Marine Corps Expert Rifle Badge (10x), and many more. This is more than a military story — it's a testament to perseverance, patriotism, and purpose. 💥🇺🇸 🎧 Listen now on all major platforms! #TuxesAndTomahawks #VeteranStories #MilitaryLife #TankCommander #CarlWheless #PodcastEpisode56

EPISODE 55: WELLS JONES 🔥From Antarctic Skies to Middle Eastern Sands – The Untamed Life of Wells Jones 🔥 This episode isn't just a conversation—it's a full-throttle journey through some of the most extreme, exhilarating, and inspiring adventures on the planet. Wells Jones has lived more lives than most can dream of: US Navy Antarctic Pararescue Team 🏔️ – Mastering extreme survival, skydiving over the South Pole, and pushing the human body to its limits. Actor & Producer 🎭 – From Off-Broadway to TV screens, under the stage name Tad Jones, bringing stories to life. Elite Explorer 🌍 – Scaling 14,000-foot peaks, solo hiking Santa Fe Baldy, and conquering Deception Peak before sunrise. Middle Eastern Expedition Leader 🐪 – Trekking across the desert via camel, scrambling up ancient walls, and navigating 39 security checkpoints across Jordan, Syria, and Israel. MoneyHunt & "A Line in the Sand" 📖 – Co-host of the PBS series MoneyHunt and co-author of the upcoming book A Line in the Sand, a gripping fusion of history and real-life adventure. Kayak for a Cause 🚣‍♂️ – Organizing a Guinness World Record event, launching 313 kayaks in a single event to raise $50,000 for charity. Running with the Bulls 🏃‍♂️ – Facing the legendary Spanish bulls head-on in Pamplona, Spain (July 2023). 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ How extreme survival training in Antarctica shaped a fearless mindset. ✔️ The power of adventure as a tool for storytelling and self-discovery. ✔️ What it's like to cross war-torn borders and retrace T.E. Lawrence's path through the Middle East. ✔️ How to turn personal experiences into films, books, and impact-driven projects. 🎧 This is not just a story—it's a masterclass in resilience, adventure, and pushing past limits. Buckle up, because this episode will leave you breathless and inspired. 📢 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! 🔗 Follow Wells & Stay Connected: 🎥 Tad Jones IMDB 📖 A Line in the Sand 🌍 MoneyHunt PBS 🚣‍♂️ Kayak for a Cause 🔥 Join the Conversation: #AdventureUnleashed #ExtremeSurvival #LineInTheSand #WellsJones #DarkSabreProductions #TuxesandTomahawks  

EPISODE 54: KIJUAN AMEY 🚀 From the Skies to the Stage – Kijuan Amey's Unstoppable Journey 🚀 In this deeply inspiring episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we bring you the story of Kijuan Amey, a man whose vision extends far beyond what the eyes can see. From fueling fighter jets mid-air to fueling human potential, Kijuan's journey is one of service, survival, and success. 🔥 Inside This Episode: 🌍 From Durham, NC, to the US Air Force, where he spent a decade as an in-flight refueling specialist, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. ⚡ A life-changing moment—how a motorcycle accident in 2017 took his eyesight but not his vision. 🎖️ His leadership role as Vice President of the Carolina Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association and his work as a mentor and ambassador for the Air Force Wounded Warriors Program. 🥁 Beyond the battlefield—his 25+ years as a drummer, his talent for on-stage acting, and his upcoming bestseller, Don't Focus on Why Me. 🎤 How he turned adversity into a platform for empowerment, motivation, and transformation, speaking to audiences of 1,500+ and mentoring individuals one-on-one. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ "I may have lost my sight, but I did not lose my vision."—How Kijuan redefined his life's purpose. ✔️ Overcoming obstacles—Lessons from the Air Force, personal tragedy, and rebirth through resilience. ✔️ How to turn pain into power—the mindset shifts necessary for unstoppable growth. ✔️ Why service never stops—mentorship, advocacy, and impacting lives beyond the uniform. 📢 Don't miss this conversation! Kijuan is not just a speaker—he's a catalyst for transformation, ready to ignite the fire within you. Whether you're a veteran, entrepreneur, or someone searching for purpose, this episode will change the way you see challenges. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms! 📩 Connect with Kijuan Amey: 📞 Phone: 919-808-4348 📧 Email: [email protected] 🔗 Website: Amey Motivation LLC 🔥 Follow & Share Your Thoughts: #AmeyMotivation #DarkSabreProductions #Tuxes&Tomahawks  

🎙️ Inside CO-3: Janet Hidalgo Exposes Political Power Plays in Colorado's Largest District   In this episode, we sit down with Janet Hidalgo — a passionate mother, dedicated caseworker, and vocal advocate for transparency in Colorado politics. Janet, a mother of three adult children and proud grandmother (with another grandchild on the way!), holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Library Science, as well as a Master's in Military and First Responder Psychology.   Her professional mission? Helping adults secure the waivers they need to remain independent as long as possible. But today, she's pulling back the curtain on something far more political. As a member of the Teller Committee in Colorado's Congressional District 3 — the largest in the state — Janet gives us an unfiltered look into the recent reorganization meeting that's raising serious questions.   From external influence by elected officials, to violations of Robert's Rules of Order, to suspect ballot collection and voting technology, Janet lays out the concerns she witnessed firsthand. Her motivation is personal and powerful: Colorado failed her children, pushing them to seek better opportunities elsewhere.   Now, she's stepping up to demand change — not just for her family, but for every conservative in Colorado. "I believe in standing up for the truth," she says. And in this episode, that's exactly what she does.   🎧 Tune in for: An insider's perspective on the controversial CD-3 elections   Why local politics matter more than ever How one mom's personal story turned into political action 💥 This is not just a story — it's a call for accountability.   Available Now on All Platforms!   https://rumble.com/v6r990o-colorado-politics-janet-hidalgo.html   https://www.youtube.com/live/bI_If4IVRLE?si=bLHAI5rVBf0rPDjG   https://x.com/AdamDeRito/status/1905065824769175969

EPISODE 53: JEREMY GOODALL 🎙️ "Boots on the Ground & Eyes on the Stars" with Jeremy Goodall In this electrifying episode, we sit down with a true political powerhouse and entrepreneurial visionary—Jeremy Goodall. With nearly two decades of service fueling the grassroots engine of Colorado Republican politics, Jeremy has become a cornerstone in the fight for conservative values from the precincts of El Paso County to the national stage. As the current Republican Chairman of Congressional District 5 and a trusted voice on bylaws and strategy, Jeremy has recruited and mentored an army of political leaders, candidates, and grassroots organizers across the state. With a résumé that includes managing campaign workforces of 150+ people, placing over two dozen amendments on the Colorado ballot, and earning an official endorsement from the Trump Campaign as a 2024 National Delegate, his impact on the political landscape is undeniable. But Jeremy's influence doesn't stop at politics. He's the founder of a space technology company, the president of an award-winning event and video production firm, and a key figure in multiple startup ventures—helping raise hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding. His creative talents have powered campaign ads and advocacy spots supporting pro-life and pro-family causes. A founding board member of Protect Kids Colorado, Jeremy is a fierce defender of women's sports and spaces, standing at the front lines of cultural and legislative battles that shape the future of the next generation. Join us as we dive into Jeremy's dynamic world—where politics, media, faith, and innovation collide. From his roots in grassroots mobilization to launching initiatives in orbit, this is one conversation that will leave you fired up, focused, and ready to make an impact. 🎧 Tune in now. 📍 Episode 53 — Tuxes & Tomahawks: Where the culture war meets the campaign trail.

EPISODE 52: DARCY SCHOENING 🔥Political Firebrand or Policy Powerhouse? The Unstoppable Rise of Darcy Schoening 🔥 In this must-listen episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, I sit down with Darcy Schoening, a Colorado political figure and unapologetic force in conservative activism. As the Director of Special Initiatives for the Colorado Republican Party, Darcy has led the charge on highly controversial issues, from banning medical transitions for minors to fighting for parental rights in schools. 🚀 Inside This Episode: The Moms for Liberty Takeover – How Darcy turned a local chapter into a policy powerhouse, influencing dozens of school boards to reject mask mandates, vaccine policies, and state-imposed screenings. The Battle Over Homelessness – Why she fought to block low-income housing and continues to push for the removal of homeless encampments near residential areas. Law & Order Agenda – How she's rallying local governments to reject sanctuary city policies and protect their communities. Trump's Colorado Endorsement Shockwave – The behind-the-scenes look at how she convinced the Colorado Republican Party to back Donald Trump in 2024, a move previously unheard of in state GOP politics. Guns, Governance, and Grassroots Power – Her role in the Colorado Federation of Republican Women, Pikes Peak Firearms, and local government boards. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ Parental rights, medical freedom, and conservative policies—why they matter now more than ever. ✔️ The fight against progressive policies in Colorado—what's next? ✔️ How grassroots movements can shake the foundations of local and national politics. ✔️ What it takes to push back against an ever-changing political landscape. 📢 Whether you love her or love to hate her, one thing is certain—Darcy Schoening is a political force to be reckoned with. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! 🔗 Follow & Stay Connected: 🌎  www.darcyforchair.com 📢 Moms for Liberty     🔥 Join the Conversation: #PoliticalFirebrand #MomsForLiberty #ColoradoPolitics #Trump2024 #DarkSabreProductions #Tuxes&Tomahawks  

EPISODE 51: LORI SAINE 🔥Taking on the Deep State, Open Borders, and the War on Energy – The Unstoppable Lori Saine Fighting for America First!🔥 In this hard-hitting episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with Lori Saine, a battle-tested conservative warrior who has never backed down from a political fight. As a staunch ally of President Donald J. Trump, Lori has fought on the frontlines for election integrity, constitutional rights, and individual liberty—and she's here to break down the biggest battles ahead. 🚀 Inside This Episode: Fighting the Government Machine – How Lori took on reckless spending, job-killing policies, and out-of-control leadership—and won as a Weld County Commissioner and Colorado State Representative. The Border Crisis & National Security – Why Lori believes open borders are a direct threat to American families and how she's working to stop it. The War on Energy – What the radical left doesn't want you to know about the fight against America's energy independence. Weaponization of Government – How the federal overreach is destroying small businesses, targeting conservatives, and threatening free speech. Promises vs. Action – Why Lori delivers results while others just talk. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ Election integrity and why it still matters in 2024. ✔️ How the government's economic policies are driving inflation—and what must be done to stop it. ✔️ The America First movement's biggest challenges—and how conservatives can fight back. ✔️ Faith, family, and country—why these values are at the heart of Lori's mission. 📢 This is more than a political conversation—it's a battle cry for every patriot who refuses to back down. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! 🔗 Follow Lori & Stay Connected: 🌎 Website: www.lorisaine.com 📢 Election Integrity Watch 🔥 The Energy Independence Fight 🔥 Join the Conversation: #AmericaFirst #ElectionIntegrity #BorderSecurity #LoriSaine #DarkSabreProductions #Tuxes&Tomahawks  

  EPISODE 50: CASEY WEST 🔥From Combat to Consciousness – A Story of Survival, Transformation, and Alternative Healing 🔥 What happens when a Marine, a motorcycle club member, and a terminal diagnosis collide? A story so intense, so raw, and so life-changing, that you won't be able to stop listening. In this episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, we sit down with a former combat Marine, adrenaline junkie, and unconventional healing advocate who has lived through war, destruction, and his own body turning against him—only to come out stronger, wiser, and on a mission to help others reclaim their power. 🚀 Inside This Episode: From a broken home to the battlefield – How growing up between Richmond, VA, and East Texas shaped an unstoppable warrior. The Marine years – 94 combat missions in 160 days, serving as a helicopter mechanic and gunner in Helmand, Afghanistan. The dark side of adrenaline – Post-military life led to a 1% motorcycle club, but running from the past only led to more pain. A wake-up call like no other – How a terminal cancer diagnosis forced a radical shift in mindset and purpose. Breaking away from the system – Why he refused traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and took healing into his own hands. The biohacking blueprint – Exploring hyperbaric oxygen, methylene blue, cold plunges, sauna, and red light therapy as powerful alternatives. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ You can't outrun your trauma—but you can face it head-on. ✔️ Cancer and emotional wounds are more connected than we think. ✔️ Alternative healing is real—and sometimes, it's the only way. ✔️ Survival isn't just about the body—it's about mindset, discipline, and radical self-awareness. 💭 This is more than a story—it's a call to arms for anyone who refuses to be a victim of circumstance. If you're ready to take your healing, your health, and your mindset to the next level, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your inspiration fix! 📢 Join the conversation: #WarriorMindset #HealingWithoutLimits #UnbreakableMinds  #DarkSabreProductions #Tuxes&Tomahawks Instagram: @transmute_that_innerg GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/a6bfc591 Website: www.transmutethatinnerg.com  

COLORADO POLITICS: Carol Riggenbach Carol Riggenbach on Fighting for Southern Colorado: A Vision for Colorado District 3  In this bold and unfiltered episode, we sit down with Carol Riggenbach, the unapologetic voice for Southern Colorado and former Republican candidate for House District 62 and a candidate for CD-3 Chairman. Representing a stretch of Colorado that includes Pueblo County, Alamosa, and numerous rural communities, Carol is on a mission to shake up the status quo at the Capitol. With key endorsements from Rocky Mountain Gun Owners and the National Federation of Independent Business, Carol brings a firebrand message of freedom, family, and economic common sense—a platform rooted in the values that matter most to the people she hopes to serve. 🔥 Inside the Episode: Carol doesn't hold back. She breaks down her approach to tackling the cost-of-living crisis, rising crime, and the need to stand up for Colorado's forgotten communities. Whether it's advocating for veterans and seniors, pushing for parental rights and school choice, or defending Colorado's energy and agriculture sectors, Carol brings a pragmatic—and passionate—vision for the future. 💡 Top Highlights Include: The real story behind the CD-3 Reorganization Meeting — and who's getting left behind Her no-nonsense stance on anti-corruption in CD-3 Why revitalizing rural economies starts with small business, energy, and ag Fighting for kids, seniors, and veterans—not bureaucracy If you're ready for a dose of political reality from someone who's ready to fight for the underdog, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in now to hear how Carol plans to flip the script for CD - 3—and why she believes Southern Colorado deserves a stronger, louder voice under the Gold Dome.  

EPISODE 49: JOEL & KARMELA WALDMAN 🔥 From Network News to True-Crime Royalty – The Incredible Story of Surviving the Survivor 🔥 What happens when an Emmy Award-winning journalist and his Holocaust survivor mother launch a podcast together? A mix of true crime, raw storytelling, and deeply personal revelations that has taken the world by storm. In this gripping episode of Tuxes & Tomahawks, Joel Waldman, former Fox News Washington correspondent and Fox 5 investigative reporter, shares his journey from covering Capitol Hill to uncovering the most compelling survivor stories. Alongside his mother, Karmela Waldman, a Holocaust survivor and psychotherapist, the duo delivers riveting, emotional, and sometimes laugh-out-loud moments as they navigate life, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. 🚀 Inside This Episode: From Breaking News to Podcasting Stardom – Why Joel left network news and found his true calling. The True-Crime Phenomenon – How Surviving the Survivor became a must-listen hit in the world of true crime. Karmela's Untold Story – How she survived World War II by hiding in a boys' Catholic school and the emotional toll of losing a son and facing life without her husband of 63 years. The Art of Mother-Son Podcasting – The hilarious, touching, and brutally honest dynamic between Joel and Karmela. Mastering Life's Biggest Questions – A rare, unfiltered look at aging, parenthood, grief, and what it really means to survive. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✔️ What true crime can teach us about resilience and the human condition. ✔️ Behind the scenes of investigative journalism and why some stories haunt reporters forever. ✔️ Why survival isn't just about escaping danger—it's about finding meaning in tragedy. ✔️ How an unlikely podcast turned into a life-changing experience. 📢 If you love true crime, gripping storytelling, and heart-to-heart conversations, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! 🔗 Follow & Stay Connected: 📚 Book: Surviving the Survivor 📸 Instagram: @survivingthesurvivor 🎙️ Podcast: Surviving the Survivor 🔥 Join the Conversation: #SurvivingTheSurvivor #TrueCrime #Resilience #PodcastingWithMom #DarkSabreProductions #Tuxes&Tomahawks  

Michael Herrick is a Midwest-based director and producer who has become a driving force in the music industry, most notably for the chart-topping band Hot Mulligan. With an impressive portfolio of collaborations with major labels like Elektra Records, Sony Music, Columbia Records, and Pure Noise Records, Herrick has built a reputation for crafting innovative music videos and media that resonate deeply with both new and nostalgic audiences. His work stands at the intersection of creativity and emotion, offering a fresh yet familiar perspective that has reinvigorated the post-emo music scene. Through his visionary direction, Herrick has brought new life to a genre while honoring its roots, creating music videos that not only captivate but inspire a new generation of listeners. His transformative work with bands like Hot Mulligan has helped shape the sound and aesthetic of modern rock, bringing back the raw, unfiltered energy of post-emo while drawing in a fresh fan base. With every project, Michael Herrick continues to push boundaries, blending nostalgia and innovation to create a dynamic fusion that has forever altered the landscape of music media.

Join me as an undercover operative infiltrates ANTIFA during the election cycle in Portland and exposes them!   Documentarian, Independent Journalist, Videographer, Editor, Graphic Artist, Writer & Producer "WULF" is a documentarian and creator of the original docu-series "A Night With Antifa: Escape From Portland" in which he infiltrated an antifa cell in Portland Oregon in August of 2024 and filmed his journey of spending a week on the streets going deep undercover.   In the film his infiltration climaxes when the Antifa group members commit arson (and he films it) at which point, things go sideways… Along with his two hour series which is split into four parts, he's also conducted 5 hours of interviews both on the streets of Portland and with people related to the crimes committed in the film. In his journey Wulf explored the psychology of what "drives" the typical Antifa member.   We only had an hour to get this story down in the podcast interview today but it gets deeper explored in his coming interviews on THE WULF CHANNEL. The overarching "theme" of what Wulf learned while documenting his time with Antifa is what he considers the "driving force" behind the "woke" movement.. So what is the driving force behind Antifa? Find out in today's episode of Tuxes and Tomahawks as host Adam DeRito gets to the bottom of this question.. Watch their conversation and tune in to THE WULF CHANNEL to see the whole series of events as they actually happened…   "THE WULF CHANNEL" @VVVLF on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@VVVLF Instagram: @official_cursed_content   https://www.instagram.com/official_cursed_content/   Follow him on X @vvvlfwulf https://x.com/VVVLFWULF WULF's "SMELL-O-GRAM" 👃:   https://t.me/+8yPqKSkGVpNjNmJh WULF'S MERCH (shop) https://06f541-8d.myshopify.com/ [purchases help support his journalism]

Today, I wanted to have a one on one discussion with my listeners after a rather hectic 18 months.  Enjoy! Instagram: adam.derito2010 X: @AdamDeRito YouTube: @AdamDeRito TikTok: adamderito2010 www.adamderito.com

Kathy Reeves is a Colorado native, and both parents were immigrants. Her dad was born in Canada, and her mom in Hungary. They met and married in Budapest, moved here and both became U.S. Citizens through Naturalization. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother to a wonderful family and homeschooled her children for a few years. Her career was in Information Technology for HewlettPackard and later for State Farm Insurance. She has been a missionary, a volunteer educator and a client advocate. She is dedicated to serving the people of Colorado as a Representative for House District 11.   https://www.reevesforcolorado.com/

Joseph Gibson is a successful entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist with a unique journey from a wrongful conviction to becoming a prominent figure in the world of business and finance. Known for his early and strategic investment in Bitcoin, which catapulted him to financial success, Joseph now uses his platform to inspire and uplift others. As the author of the book *"From Felon to Philanthropist,"* Joseph shares his transformative story and the lessons learned along the way. His passion for justice, economic empowerment, and community development has driven him to become a vocal advocate for policies that foster equality and opportunity for all. In this podcast, Joseph will delve into strategic approaches for engaging the Black community in political discourse, drawing from his personal experiences and deep understanding of socioeconomic dynamics. He believes in the power of informed and inclusive strategies to bring about meaningful change and will discuss how these can be leveraged to garner support for political movements, including potential pathways for Donald Trump to gain traction within the Black electorate.

Ken DeGraff is a 27 year AF veteran of the Air Force Active Duty, Guard and Reserve. With his wife Kim they are blessed with three wonderful children and one outstanding son-in-law. They had the bitter-sweet opportunity to change military postings about 20 times, to include Canada and Germany.  DeGraff began his Air Force career at the Air Force Academy where he earned a degree in Aerospace Structures, then went on to earn his Masters of Science in Structural Dynamics as a Guggenheim Fellow at Columbia University. During his career, he flew a whole spectrum of aircraft--Attack, Tanker/Transport, Trainer & Remotely Piloted. Ken was an Environmental Manager for five years, working cooperatively with state and federal environmental agencies. As a Flight & Ground Safety Manager, Ken helped develop Explosive Site Plans and worked with peace officers from across the state on ATV and snowmobile operator courses.  Ken concluded his military service career teaching advanced calculus and powered flight at the USAF Academy. After retirement from the USAF, Ken resumed his career in commercial aviation that began after leaving Active Duty. In 2022, Ken DeGraff was elected to serve in the Colorado House of Representatives.  Having helped hold the line against "foreign enemies of our Constitution," Representative DeGraff is now engaged against the domestic variety.

John is a retired member of the Senior Executive Service and former Field Office Director (FOD) for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO). The jurisdiction John oversaw includes Colorado and Wyoming, covering 200,000 square miles and more than 200 federal employees. John began his career of service by joining the United States Air Force. During his 4 years in the Air Force, John served as a Security Police and Security Forces member. John began his civilian federal career in 1996 with the Federal Protective Service (FPS) as a police officer for the General Services Administration (GSA), where he was assigned to the New York Terrorist Trials Operations Command in New York City. In 1997, FPS sent him to Denver, Colorado, to work on both Oklahoma City Bombing trials. Two years later, he became an officer for the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) in Denver. In 2003, John was selected as an instructor for the newly formed U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Academy at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, where he taught in the Physical Techniques Division and the ERO Fugitive Operations Academy. In 2005, John was promoted to Supervisory Officer for the ICE Denver Field Office. There, he helped establish the Criminal Alien Program and numerous fugitive task forces. He was promoted in 2011 to Assistant Field Office Director (AFOD), where he presided over Criminal Prosecutions and Fugitive Operations. He later served as the AFOD over Field Operations, Emergency Management, and Intelligence. During this time, John attended the United States Marshals Service Training Academy and completed the Fugitive Investigator Course. John greatly impacted the State of Colorado, as he served as the Denver Field Office, Deputy Field Office Director from 2017 to 2020, when he was then promoted to Field Office Director. During this tenure, John was detailed for six months to the DHS Joint Task Force West in San Antonio, Texas, where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff. John oversaw the initial rollout of Operation Opioid Counterstrike, a multi-agency, cross-corridor operation at the federal, state, local, tribal, and international level to disrupt Transnational Criminal Organizations' trafficking in opioids. In 2021, he was detailed to Washington, DC, to work in the DHS Operations section as the Director of Independent Departure for the Afghanistan Refugee crisis, Task Force Operation Allied Welcome. In 2023 he received the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Silver Medal for Meritorious Service Award. He was also awarded the Meritorious Life Saving Medal from Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office for saving a life in a fire. John retired from ICE on July 31, 2022 and now resides in Aurora, CO. He is happily married to Eileen and has two beautiful children, Olivia and Symon. They also have two rescue pups named Thor and Layla. In John's free time, he trains in Brazilian Jiu jitsu, provides self-defense training to the local communities, and enjoys hunting on his property in Craig, CO.

There was an audio processing error on my microphone and I was unable to fix it, so I apologize for sounding like a mouse. However, it's still a great interview! LTC Larry Brock Jr is a native Texan, father and Christian. After finishing the Academy, he went to pilot training, and was assigned the A-10. He served in Afghanistan and Iraq flying the winning multiple decorations. He peacefully protested the stolen election of 2020 and was convicted in 2023. He served 2 years in prison with over 130 days being spent in the Hole for forming the 5th Allied PPOW Wing and urging patriots to remain loyal to President Trump. He is currently working to register voters in Texas and see that President Trump wins in November.

Jaime Gallardo is a Marine EOD Technician that has spent majority of his career in MARSOC and now teaching at the Defense Nuclear Weapons School. He was born in Colombia which drove him to become an EOD Technician. As he transitions out of the military he has committed to change the course of service member finances.   Instagram: Financial.Enabler

SFC Chris Fronk joined the Army in 1989 into the Signal Corps. He was initially assigned at Fort Carson, Colorado. From there he deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1996 during Operation Joint Endeavor while being assigned to Darmstadt, Germany. He then PCSed to Fort Hood from 1997-1999, and eventually to Camp Carroll in Korea from 1999-2000. He went back to Fort Caron in early of 2001 and ETSed from the Active Duty. In July of 2001, re-enlisted in the Colorado Army National Guard right before 9/11. He was mobilized for deployment with the 143rd Signal Company out of Grand Junction, Colorado and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004-2005. After returning to the United States, he became a Recruiter for the Colorado Army National Guard. In 2015, he met Adam DeRito and learned about his case with the USAF Academy, and found a way for him to serve again and get around the red tape of the Department of Defense. Since leaving the military in 2016, he was worked as a blue collar worker as a tower climber for Battner Energy working on solar and wind turbine sites. In 2019 he transitioned to working in the plumbing, heating, and electric business as an accountant and as an inventory control specialist. Finally in 2023, he retired from his life of service to spend more time with his wife and six children.

This is one of the most indepth leadership discussions I've had openly with a field grade officer concerning the Air Force Academy, West Point, Annapolis, and our operational military. Modern leadership is so important, and the younger generation is striving for that conversation. Well, here it is! Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch is the author of the 2021 release, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be. Oak is also an internationally recognized speaker who gives talks on leadership and success. Both his books and his talks are based on his 40+ years of leadership in the U.S. Army and subsequent civilian positions, Oak highlights principles that will benefit today's leaders and inspire the leaders of tomorrow. Reach out to LTC Oakland McCulloch directly! Find him on LinkedIn, give him a call, and learn leadership now! LTC (Retired) Oakland McCulloch (386) 290-8088 [email protected] https://www.ltcoakmcculloch.com/ Episode 39: Oakland McCulloch is available now on all platforms! Rumble: https://rumble.com/v59z0ro-episode-39-lt-col-oakland-mcculloch.html X: https://x.com/AdamDeRito/status/1820897399797379373 YouTube: https://youtu.be/TplMroAqm8E?si=YCjO54-1jnbALZs8    

CPT Christopher Kuehne served his country honorably as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. He is now being sent to Federal Prison. His crime? Being present at the Captiol Building on January 6th. After having his home raided by Federal Agents and his family terrorized, CPT Kuehne needs our help to secure justice. GiveSendGo | Fight for Freedom https://givesendgo.com/kuehne Home - Patriot Freedom Project https://patriotfreedomproject.com    

Meghan Klement is a former member of the U.S. Coast Guard who was sexually assaulted and subjected to extreme forms of retaliation by her chain of command. Her story gained national attention, and was most recently talked about in the Senate Committee Hearing with Senator Blumenthal when the Commandant of the Coast Guard was questioned about the unethical practices divulged by "Operation Fouled Anchor". Born and raised in Hockinson Washington, she was the youngest of four and have three older brothers. She grew up in an extremely patriotic family with a long line of veterans and a mother who dedicated her entire career caring for veterans on hospice at the VA. Meghan left for the Coast Guard a month after her nineteenth birthday in September of 2012. She served until her medical discharge in may of 2015. Meghan married her husband in February of 2013 at 19. She has been married eleven years. They have three sons that are being raised on a small farm in rural Oregon. She now has followed her dream of running a photography business and has for the last six and a half years.

Who is in my next exciting episode? Betty Freakin' Luther! Nanny, as we so fondly call her, is my grandmother. She turns 100 on September 14.  Born in 1924, my grandmother has lived through the Great Depression, World War 2 (where she met my grandfather Edward Luther), the Korean War, the Civil Rights Movement, JFK, the Vietnam War, the Desert Storm, 9/11 and so much more! I thought it was really important to talk about longevity, what makes a Great God Damned American, raising families, having babies, and what American's today have forgotten so easily. Patriotism! I hope you all enjoy this episode as much as I did, and I hope younger Americans today can learn something from the Greatest Generation!

Valdamar Archuleta is a candidate for Congress in CD-1 in Denver, Colorado. He was born and raised in Colorado, and went on to graduate from George Washington high school. After spending several years living in New York City working with his church, he decided to return home to help out his community here. Returning from the Big Apple, he witnessed the gradual destruction of a place that that he called home almost all of his life. From uncontrolled crime, rampant homelessness, and unaffordability, Denver is a reflection of where America is at today. He is not a millionaire. He doesn't have a fancy degree. He is not a politician. He is a proud Denver resident who knows that we can't afford to fall short due to the failings of D.C. yet again. It's time to do something different in Washington.

Ron Hanks is running for Congressional District 3 in the State of Colorado.  Ron Hanks is a combat veteran who served in the military throughout the world and across the United States.  Looking forward to retirement our out-of-control government forced him back in to public service because Ron could not stand idly by doing nothing. Ron retired from the U.S. Air Force at the end of 2017 after more than 32 years of active and reserve service, serving as an enlisted man and as a commissioned officer.  He worked as a linguist in Desert Storm and during multiple operations, including Northern Watch, Southern Watch, and Earnest Will.  During the Global War on Terror, Ron served as an intelligence officer, performing duties in Iraq, Kuwait, and United Arab Emirates. Ron served in several other capacities during his career, to include as a treaty escort for foreign inspectors from Russia and other countries, as a counterdrug officer in Kazakhstan working to stop the flow of drugs out of Afghanistan that funded the Taliban and Al Qaeda, and as a badged, credentialed counterintelligence agent. When not deployed or in uniform, Ron worked fracking in the oilfields of North Dakota, witnessing first-hand the benefits of American energy  independence, the merits of hydraulic fracturing, and the spirit and know-how of Blue-Collar America.

Natalie Abshier is running for Colorado State Senate District 23. She is a Colorado native who grew up in Berthoud and graduated from Northglenn High School. She furthered her education at Metro State, University of Colorado and Colorado Christian University. She has lived in Mead for 26 years, married to her wonderful husband, Jerry, for 28 years. They have raised their children in Colorado and are now watching their many grandkids grow up as well. She has traveled throughout the country, telling everyone she meets that there's no better place to live in than Colorado. Natalie looks forward to being part of the change to bring sensible policies back to Colorado.