Damo and Tisha are joined by AS1 Justin Kramer. They open the episode with a conversation about the ups and downs of social media. Damo breaks down his extroverted introversion. Is perception really reality, or is that just an overused adage? An AS is a pretty rare rate in the Navy, and Damo wonders if it was Justin’s first choice. What does an AS do? AS1 did a tour with the Blue Angels and detailed his experience. What is the margin for error for a Blue Angel? AS1 details his “hardest day” as a Blue Angel. How does an AS with the Blue Angels compete for evaluations? After the Blue Angels, Justin did an IA tour in Bahrain; he broke down the mission. Justin was in Bahrain during the “Day of Rage,” which doubles as one of his worst experiences in the Navy. AS1 details his initial reporting and check-in experiences on the USS Bonhomme Richard (BHR) in 2019. He also gives us a new term: T.E.D.S - Typical Enlisted Dudes. AS1 just so happened to be in the off-going duty section the morning of the fire on the BHR. He played a role in the firefighting efforts as a Team Leader and details his first-hand experiences while attacking the casualty. He describes the physical, mental, and emotional impact that this experience had on him. How was the command climate affected by the fire? How did the command deal with the aftermath of how it played out in the media? AS1 talked about wanting to stay on the ship until she decommissioned. AS1 details living with PTSD, the support of his family, and the therapy he’s been receiving. AS1 Kramer gives his “Do Better.” Justin asks Damo and Tish a couple of questions. Damo introduces a game to AS1. Don’t miss this packed episode, and be sure to follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.       To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast         Links and more from the episode:         Book of the Week: Speak Like a CEO (Suzanne Bates) https://www.porchlightbooks.com/product/speak-like-a-ceo-secrets-for-commanding-attention-and-getting-results--suzanne-bates/isbn/9781260117486         Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damo and Tisha are joined by Naval Flight Officer LCDR Frank “Siri” Bonner for an insightful and inspiring episode. Fresh off completing his PRT, Damo kicks things off by sharing how it went down. How did LCDR Bonner earn the call sign “Siri”? Why did he choose the path from enlisted Sailor to officer? Frank dives into his journey, from growing up in South Central L.A. and dispelling common misconceptions about the neighborhood in the 90s to breaking barriers as he transitioned into the Navy.   LCDR Bonner also reflects on his time as a recruiter in one of California’s wealthiest areas, sharing how he overcame challenges and thrived in the role. Throwing it back, Frank recalls the days of Blackberrys, his time as a DJ at Howard University during hip hop’s blog era, and his impressive rise from Junior Enlisted to Chief, Chief to Officer, and Officer to Howard before returning to the Wardroom. He opens up about adversity in flight school, the unique dynamics LDOs navigate early on, and how the internet has reshaped the sense of community within the military.   Other highlights include Frank’s favorite Navy moment, advice for maintaining a strong relationship during deployment, and a lively debate on whether Chiefs should be technical experts. Damo also shares his thoughts on the “lost generation” in today’s Navy and asks if recruiters are equipped with the right tools to inspire in 2024. Siri wraps up with his “Do Better” and “Book of the Week” segments.   Don’t miss this packed episode, and be sure to follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.       To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast         Links and more from the episode: Siri’s Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/kingsiri06/       Books of the Week: Work The System (Sam Carpenter) https://www.workthesystem.com/       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

This episode is dedicated to Clayton Traywick. Fair Winds and Following Seas Brother.   About Our Guest:   A three-time National Collegiate Boxing Champion from the United States Naval Academy, Mike also served as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, with deployments to Afghanistan and Japan/the Philippines. Mike’s dedication to the community and his corporate partners unwaveringly reflects his military background. A champion for community, entrepreneurship, social impact, and economic development, Mike has established himself as a high-profile, relentlessly vocal advocate for Veterans and opportunity youth.     About The Episode:   Enterpreneur, Author, Community Leader and Marine Officer, Mike Steadman joins Damo and Tisha. They start the episode with a few deep, introspective questions before Mike Steadman makes a unique confession about military service and how competitive life can be after it’s over. Mike talks about his humble beginnings in Tyler, Texas, and how he made it to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Mike, Tisha, and Damo discuss growing up as “working poor.” What got Mike into boxing? Mike reflects on life as a midshipman and the power of networking. How much does rank matter on the battlefield as a Marine infantry Officer? What does it feel like to be relieved in combat? Mike talks about how hard being a Marine was for him. Damo tries his best to get a step-by-step guide to transitioning from active duty military to legitimate entrepreneur. Why did he pick Newark as the city to begin his journey as a community leader and boxing coach? How were the early days in Newark, when all he had was a “hope and a wish”? Mike details his experience with Stanford Ignite. He covers the “Trojan Horse” business strategy and how it led to adding companies like Spotify and WeWork to his resume. “Iron” Mike discusses his motivation behind teaching youth boxing in an inner city neighborhood. What are the pros and cons of crowdfunding? Why did Mike start his podcast, “Confessions of a Native Son,” and what is the inspiration behind the name? The guys discuss the current state of podcasts and controlling your algorithm. Mike covers his various businesses/projects to include his THRIVE program. Mike discusses his book, “Black Veteran Entrepreneur” and the importance of representation in the things we consume. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com     Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast         Links and more from the episode: Mike’s Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iron-mike-steadman-%F0%9F%A5%8A%F0%9F%8F%B4%E2%80%8D%E2%98%A0%EF%B8%8F-3387586a/     MIke’s Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/ironmikesteadman/       Books of the Week: The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18144590-the-alchemist   The Spook Who Sat by the Door (Sam Greenlee) - https://wsupress.wayne.edu/9780814349571/   Black Veteran Entrepreneur (Mike Steadman and Alana M. Abernethy) - https://www.amazon.com/Black-Veteran-Entrepreneur-Validate-Greatness-ebook/dp/B0BHV5799B?dplnkId=bbefd549-b286-4a2e-b99e-587f9a2cfa7e&nodl=1         Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

About Our Guest:   Dr. John Cordle is a retired Navy Captain with 30 years of service. He commanded two Navy warships, USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS San Jacinto (CG 56). He was the 2010 recipient of the Navy League John Paul Jones Award and the BUMED (Bureau of Medicine and Surgery) Epictetus Award for Innovative and Inspirational Leadership, and the 2019 ASNE (American Society of Naval Engineers) Solberg Award Winner for his research in the area of Crew Endurance and Human Systems Engineering.   About The Episode:   Human Factors Engineer and Retired Navy Captain Dr. John Cordle joins Damo and Tish. John begins the conversation by explaining where his LinkedIn title, “Prolific Disruptive Thinker,” comes from.  He discusses how the book “Black Officer, White Navy,” and his relationship with its author, Reuben Keith Green, impacted his outlook on Diversity. John deeply dives into beards and why he feels the current beard policy negatively impacts African American Sailors. John discusses his efforts to introduce the Circadian Rhythm to the Navy and the issues that servicemembers have regarding sleeping. Does anyone remember the “operational pause” that happened due to the collisions in 2017? John details the concept of a “Pirate Ship” and the benefits of prioritizing rest in the command’s plan of the day. The GAO Report is revisited. Can the “fix-it” mentality negatively impact a SME? Whatever happened to adding “respect” as a Navy core value? Dr. Cordle talks about his campaign for the USS Stennis to be renamed and why a namesake can be so important to a ship’s crew. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com   Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       Follow Dr. Cordle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordlejp?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app       Links and more from the episode:   Article: “It’s Time For the Navy to Allow Sailors on Shore Duty To Have Short Trimmed Beards” by Dr. John Cordle - https://www.navytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2022/04/16/its-time-for-the-navy-to-allow-sailors-on-shore-duty-to-have-short-trimmed-beards/   Article: “Captain, Gets Some Sleep!” by Dr. John Cordle - https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2019/february/captain-get-some-sleep   Article: “Op-Ed: It's Time to Add Respect as a Core Navy and Marine Corps Value” by Dr. John Cordle - https://maritime-executive.com/editorials/op-ed-it-s-time-to-add-respect-as-a-core-navy-and-marine-corps-value   Article: “R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Find Out What It Means To Me” by Dr. John Cordle - https://blog.usni.org/posts/2022/03/22/r-e-s-p-e-c-t-find-out-what-it-means-to-me   Article: “The Case for Renaming the USS John C. Stennis” by Lieutenant Commander Reuben Keith Green, U.S. Navy (Retired) - https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2020/june/case-renaming-uss-john-c-stennis       Book of the Week: Black Officer, White Navy (Reuben Green) - https://goodreads.com/book/show/38320012-black-officer-white-navy         Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

[Recorded on 29 October 2024] It’s our anniversary, y’all! Thanks to the best listeners in the world for helping us make it to 4 years! The guys start the episode by defining and discussing the phrase “waiting it out” in the Navy. Damo recalls his experience “meeting” the CNO. Since checking into the carrier, Damon notices some changes that he’s compelled to discuss. Damo discusses a recent Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). Does DRB still work? Would you hold it down for the homie and take an NJP award? After standing CMC for a 96, Damon has a newfound respect for Command Master Chiefs. The guys discuss why it’s so hard to correct small things like uniform infractions nowadays. Tisha pops in, and the trio discusses some TV shows. The guys break into sports to discuss Navy Football and the WNBA Rookie of the Year. With Donald Trump and Kamala Harris both appearing in podcasts recently, Damo wonders why more Navy leadership are not doing long-form content with independent media platforms. The Navy has began tests on a device called the TRAM and it’s a game changer. A 55-year father reenlisted into the Navy after being inspired by his son who recently joined. What’s going on a the Newport News Shipyard with these faulty welds? The GAO released an eye-opening report about Sailor-led maintenance. Can we find out more about the EMPLOY program? Can one toxic Chief impact a command’s #1 EP First Class Petty Officer? A #DoBetter from a listener about leader development training is read. What happens when you get screened in the marketplace but placed on OPHOLD prior to your planned promotion date? These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com   Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast   Links and more from the episode:   Navy testing a device called the TRAM - Tranferrable Reload-at-sea-Method Device - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/10/16/game-changing-navy-reloads-cruisers-missiles-at-sea-for-first-time/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_nt&fbclid=IwY2xjawF9svtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHQAG9qGgp-JzXWafNj-n-wqdWuJZz5mLdbnRzynAq5pyXmuUMrkgeafcRw_aem_EAOZohx3CkrFqZ4SYO4s1Q   USS New Jersey (First Sub designed for Women crew members - https://www.stripes.com/branches/navy/2024-09-15/navy-submarine-commission-new-jersey-15181263.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2hkLG6iTNqBEyd1aQkfDjapBQbsXv0OKwZU_nY1uqp6aj-9ddOpYDZfEI_aem_4ToSNp6TsmzEQIgmzL_YYw   Do we need to carry Rifles during Boot Camp like the Air Force? https://taskandpurpose.com/news/air-force-recruits-rifles/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1e3hDItnEnLBQlY2bVIoFOnQQNJjSlIhioVo5iw2CvKfwACEpEtKQW0RM_aem_EObYUHOFzq-5fckM6DC97Q   Father reenlisted in Navy inspired by his son https://taskandpurpose.com/news/navy-father-son/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR222IIj5eYuXjo326W4rAESN0R-lix-G9sRShcGHjjCuIxibuaLgh8Ppko_aem_5Akeb63810DYYm0mMAhAqg   Intentional Faulty Welds (Newport News Shipbuilding) https://www.foxnews.com/us/newport-news-shipbuilding-suspects-intentionally-faulty-welds-multimillion-dollar-naval-vessels   Sailor Led Maintenance Report (Governement Accountability Office) https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-24-106525#summary_recommend       Book of the Week:   Armed with Good Intentions (Wallo267) https:/www.wallo267.comarmedwithgoodintentions         This episode contains a snippet of: Song: Welcome Back Artist: Mase Producer: The Movement Label: Bad Boy   Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon, Damo, and Tisha are joined by Catherine Butler and Jamal Mays, who share their stories of joining the Navy, the challenges they faced, and their reflections on service and retirement. The discussion highlights the diverse paths individuals take within the Navy and the impact of their experiences on their lives. This conversation explores the experiences of military veterans as they transition to civilian life, highlighting the camaraderie, challenges, and lessons learned during their service. The discussion includes personal anecdotes about life in the Navy, the importance of preparation for leaving the military, and insights into programs like SkillBridge that assist in this transition. Catherine reflects on what she misses about military life and the support she received while serving, emphasizing the value of teamwork and personal growth. They share personal experiences related to education, job opportunities, and the cultural shifts within the military. The conversation delves into the importance of the TAPS program for military personnel transitioning to civilian life, discussing its structure, benefits, and the necessity of early planning. Damon shares insights on how modern Sailors are better prepared for their transitions, emphasizing the significance of having a plan and exploring various career options, including SkillBridge. They reflect on the challenges of leaving military life, the value of pursuing one's passion, and the importance of community support during this significant life change.   Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast         Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damo and Tisha open the episode by discussing workplace arguments. Damo reads a comment responding to a PTSF YouTube short. Tisha explains why she “quit” social media. Is retirement really so hard? Prayers to everyone who has been impacted by this current Hurricane season. The Navy is celebrating our 249th birthday! Make sure you do it in accordance with the policy. The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) has had some major changes that everyone isn’t pleased with and we want to understand why. Damo and Tisha review the updates to MyNavyPortal. What’s the difference between GMT and CMT? The Navy has surpassed our recruiting goals this year! This is definitely a win, considering we were not expecting it. It’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month and we want to highlight the Family Advocacy Program (FAP) again. A “Do Better” from a listener is read. Damo and Tisha provide a little feedback. Tisha takes Damo on a personal journey about a “Karen” at her job. A Guardsman is trying to sue the government for Malpractice following a botched surgery in Walter Reed. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast   Links from this episode: U.S Navy Birthday Resources - https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/commemorations-toolkits/navy-birthday.html   Dissolution of EFMP Categories - https://mccareer.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/dissolution-of-navy-efmp-program.pdf   Common Military Training - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24209.txt?ver=s2MalZl5dN1qGOqyeF0Brw%3d%3d   Navy surpassed Recruiting Goals: https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/10/02/navy-bounces-back-surpasses-recruiting-goals-for-fiscal-year-2024/   Family Advocacy Program Resources - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Support-Services/Culture-Resilience/Family-Advocacy/   Malpractice Suit: https://www-military-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.military.com/daily-news/2024/06/24/paralyzed-during-surgery-walter-reed-guardsman-asks-supreme-court-consider-feres-doctrine-challenge.html?amp       Books of the Week: Damo - Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers into Leaders (L. David Marquet)- https://davidmarquet.com/turn-the-ship-around-book/   Tisha - Damaged but Not Destroyed: From Trauma to Triumph (Michael Todd) - https://www.iammiketodd.com/damaged-but-not-destroyed       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

DISCLAIMER: The speaker(s) are NOT health professionals and do not intend any of the content of this podcast as health advice. If you need professional health advice, please seek out your closest military or civilian health providers immediately.   DISCLAIMER: The speaker(s) are NOT mental health professionals and do not intend any of the content of this podcast as mental health advice. If you need professional mental health advice, please seek out your closest military or civilian mental health providers immediately.   Retired Master Chief, Will Foster, host of the ‘Don’t Give Up The Ship’ podcast comes back to PTSF to chop it up with Tisha and Damo. First, have you seen that video about hitting our recruiting goals floating around on social media? Did we hit our recruiting goals? Is everyone in the navy wearing the wrong color socks? Damo starts his journey of weight gain, weight loss, and personal growth from early childhood to his most recent experiences at his current command. Will shares his story of how compounding responsibility and the need to work led to some compounded health complications in his life. He talks about his experience with cancer and mental health. Tisha discusses her transition from Sailor to Civilian and the impact it has had on her mental health. DGUTS discusses some of the cultural separation between Chiefs and junior Sailors and the need to build trust through vulnerability and transparency. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       More information on the ‘Don’t Give Up The Ship’ podcast: Don’t Give Up The Ship Podcast is a weekly podcast for the professional and leadership development and education of military members and veterans. The leadership lessons, however, can be translated to everyone’s professional and personal leadership challenges. We’re fiercely committed to your leadership development and education, to developing leaders as authentic leaders of people, who build trust amongst their teams to push a team in the direction of mission accomplishment.      DGUTS Links and Social Media: DGUTS Podcast Website: dgutspodcast.com DGUTS Podcast Apparel: dgutsapparel.com Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Listen on Soundcloud:  / usailorwillis   Support on Patreon:  / dgutspodcast  Watch on YouTube:  / dontgiveuptheshippodcast   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DGUTSpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgutspodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/dgutspodcast/ Wisdom App:  @dgutspodcast Discord: @dgutspodcast Email: dontgiveuptheshippodcast@gmail.com Store: dgutsapparel.com/shop       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

OSC Maurice Gibson, also known as Sir Lunchtime, joins the pod to chop it up with Damo in the absence of Damon and Tish. Though Sir Lunchtime is a food influencer by night, his day job is as an inspector for the Afloat Training Group (ATG) in San Diego. They start the discussion by discussing the role of inspectors and the impact they can have at a command. We can’t get together without at least bringing up the latest news about Sean “P. Diddy” Combs. Damo talks about two new NAVADMINS, one about uniforms and the other about BAH. The BAH NAVADMIN is a positive change for Sailors who have to execute duties in a Geographical Bachelor status. Is Geobaching always a choice? There are hundreds of new predatory lending apps putting junior Sailors in the same hole that the payday loans used to put us in. Do we need more financial literacy in the Navy, or do we need to attend the training and webinars that are already being offered? Sir Lunchtime discusses how he started doing food reviews. The guys rewind a bit and discuss what made OSC Gibson join the Navy and stay in, as well as what he learned from his biggest moment of adversity. The guys discuss some of their favorite foods in San Diego. Much love to our Filipino brothers and sisters. What are the logistics of putting together a food critique video? The guys discuss the San Diego food scene and what neighborhoods are the best places to get food from. How do you stay healthy as a food influencer? The guys discuss how physical and mental health are closely related. Sir Lunchtime discusses finding his “why” and dream destinations for food. Should lunchtime be protected? Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       Catch up with Sir Lunchtime social media: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sirlunchtime YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SIRLUNCHTIME Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@sirlunchtime       Links From This Episode: NAVADMIN 192/24: Basic Allowance for Housing Flexibility - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24192.txt?ver=WkKibwK4TQqFtQN3BYBsMA%3d%3d   NAVADMIN 194/24: Uniform Policy and Uniform Initiative Update - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24194.txt?ver=tntk-qYOrNWS1P0aE1tVhQ%3d%3d       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Commander Desmond Walker (USS Stout) checked into the pod for a conversation that we’d been waiting to have. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, they touch on the importance of mental health awareness, going into a very stressful holiday season. They also discuss the disconnect between some Navy policies and their implementation at the command level. Commander Walker discusses his personal experience of joining the Navy and whether his upbringing in Mississippi had an impact on his outlook as an African American Sailor. Damo asks him about any experiences with racism in Mississippi. He discusses his enlisted life, including his deployments and the challenges of being separated from his wife. Cdr. Walker also talks about his transition to becoming an officer and the importance of mentorship and teamwork. He highlights his various assignments and leadership roles, emphasizing the need for empathy and open communication within the command structure. CDR Walker details his leadership philosophy. Damo opens up a discussion on the “us versus them” mentality and the importance of seeing leaders as part of the team. What are the biggest differences between an XO tour and a CO tour? They also touch on the importance of using social media to celebrate and engage with sailors, as well as the different standards of accountability for khaki and junior enlisted personnel. Damo highlights his appreciation for the growth of the podcast’s audience. Are Khaki and junior enlisted Sailors held to different standards when it comes to corrective actions for disciplinary issues? The pod has a convo about the need for leaders to make timely decisions, have difficult conversations, and take appropriate action to maintain discipline and uphold standards. CDR Walker details what a “loss of confidence” means for a Commanding Officer. They also touch on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the Navy and the challenges faced by African-American officers. Cdr. Walker reflects on a mentor who inspired him in his early as an enlisted Sailor. Cdr. Walker honors the hard work of his crew on the USS Stout. He emphasizes the need for transparency, communication, and mentorship in creating a positive and inclusive culture. As a CO, how does he prepare his crew and family for deployment? Cdr. Walker reflects on the mentors and leaders who have influenced his career, from his early days in the Navy to his current command. He highlights the importance of investing in others and the impact that strong leadership can have on personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the need for leaders to see and appreciate the individuality of their team members and to assess their performance based on a known metric. Cdr. Walker concludes by sharing his motivation to continue serving in the Navy and the responsibility he feels to be an example and representation for others. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.   To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.     Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast   Cdr. Walker’s Book Recommendations: The Right to Lead (John C. Maxwell) - https://lifeandleadership.com/book-summaries/maxwell-the-right-to-lead/ Black Officer, White Navy (Reuben Keith Green) - https://www.kentuckypress.com/9781985900295/black-officer-white-navy/ It Worked For Me (Colin Powell) - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/it-worked-for-me-colin-powell?variant=32129897431074       Suicide Prevention Month Resources: The following resources are available 24/7 for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual support:   - National Suicide Hotline: Dial 988   - Veterans/Military Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1) or Text 838255   - Psychological Health Outreach Program (PHOP): 1-866-578-PHOP (7467)    - Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 / [www.militaryonesource.mil](https://www.militaryonesource.mil)   - Vet Centers: 877-WAR-VETS (877-927-8387) / [www.vetcenter.va.gov](https://www.vetcenter.va.gov)   - DON Civilian Employee Assistance Program (DONCEAP): 844-DONCEAP (1-844-366-2327) / [www.magellanascend.com](https://www.magellanascend.com)   - Local Resources: Fleet and Family Support Centers, Marine and Family Services, Military Family Life Counselors, chaplains, and your leadership       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

ITCM Amaury Ponciano returns to the show to discuss various topics, including his book 'Anchored in Resilience'. He also touches on sensitive subjects such as sexual assault and family dynamics. Amaury shares his motivation for writing the book and challenges in discussing certain aspects of his life. He recalls the reactions of family members to the book and the importance of sharing one's truth. Amaury shares his experiences with relationships and cultural identity. He has a crazy story about how he ended up between a mother and daughter. He discusses the fear of African Americans he had growing up and how his time in the military helped him overcome those biases. Amaury reflects on his relationship with his brother and the challenges they faced growing up. He also discusses the abusive stepfather his mother was involved with and the impact it had on their family. Amaury shares his perspective on American culture and how media influenced his perception of different racial groups. Amaury talks about his experiences growing up in the Dominican Republic and his early connections with American culture through entertainment. The conversation then shifts to the culture and leadership within the Navy, with the gang discussing the changes they have observed in the expectations and trust placed on first classes and Chiefs. Some relationships are toxic, some are great - he reflects on many of them. Is watching porn cheating? The life of a young Sailor is filled with fun and chasing that one lover who ain’t feeling you like that. It’s always one of those. Amaury also opens up about the sexual assault he experienced and how it affected his self-esteem and relationships. Amaury's experiences shaped his approach to fatherhood, as he strives to be a loving and present father to his children, especially his daughter. Closing the conversation, Amaury discusses the importance of intention and purpose in his personal and professional life. He shares how he has cultivated a strong and positive relationship with the mothers of his children, emphasizing the importance of respect and communication. Amaury also talks about his role in promoting warrior toughness and resilience in the Navy and the need for a culture shift in how we approach mental health. Congrats on the book, Amaury! Thanks for the motivation and inspiration! Good luck preparing for and executing your retirement. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       Get in touch with ITCM Ponciano: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/amaury.ponciano Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amauryp17/     Buy the Book: Paperback - https://www.amazon.com/Anchored-Resilience-Overcoming-Adversity-Awareness/dp/1662947216 Audiobook - https://www.audible.com/pd/Anchored-in-Resilience-Audiobook/B0DBMQ4VXY   Previous ‘Permission To Speak Freely’ Episode: Permission To Speak Freely Ep 44 | The One About 12 October 2000 (Feat. ITCM Amaury Ponciano) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AC8J07jElis&t=847s&ab_channel=PermissionToSpeakFreelyPodcast       Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

DCC Cody Osgood came by to discuss the life of a Recruit Division Commander (RDC) at Naval Station Great Lakes. He went from an E5 to an E6 while stationed in Great Lakes. Cody begins by discussing why he joined the Navy. Damo goes left and gets on his soapbox very early in this episode. Cody returns to his story, detailing how he initially felt about being an RDC. Is RDC “C” School as difficult as people claim it is? Does RDC School fault a person for not being “hard” enough? What are some of the common misconceptions of being an RDC? What happens when a Recruit tries to fight an RDC? Do Drill Instructors pick the roles they want to play before they get a “Push”? Are RDCs to blame for newly reported Sailors who don’t seem to understand basic military customs and courtesies? What does it mean to make a Sailor live out of their seabag? Cody talks about making a decision that he now regrets to turn a recruit in the right direction. Cody responds to a question from a listener regarding the ASVAB. Damo asks Cody to “fact-check” some of the reported incentives for an RDC. Cody discusses the challenges of his integrated push. How was the experience of “pushing boots” during Covid? What changed after Covid? What is financial literacy training for a Sailor in Boot Camp? Has Cody ever had personal feelings regarding a Recruit, whether good or bad? What’s a normal day for a division of recruits? What’s the purpose of the 12-minute meal time for a recruit division? How are RDCs evaluated? Cody details the craziest Great Lakes story that he remembers. What is I.T.E? Is Great Lakes getting soft? How do RDCs choose the RPOC?  Cody speaks on whether he would do another tour as an RDC. Navy Boot Camp is now 10 weeks long, but why? How is Warrior Toughness being inculcated into recruits? What’s the real deal with recruits being able to use their cell phones?  Cody gives a “Do Better.” How easy is it to quit Navy Boot Camp? Cody details his favorite thing about being an RDC. Damo asks the pod what are things they wish they would’ve known before they went to Boot Camp. Why do people seem to get so upset about changes when it comes to boot camp? Why do Sailors have to shave on leave? How real does it get at the Navy Ball? Do we always have to speak to the people that didn’t make it when we congratulate the people that did? Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.       Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast       Links From This Episode:         Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0