HeroFront

FROM MILITARY LEADER TO MISS USA INTERNATIONAL

Lisa Tauai’s Unbelievable Transition Story | HeroFront Podcast

What happens when a 20-year Air Force commander trades her uniform for a crown? In this epic episode, we sit down with Lisa Tauai — a retired Lt. Colonel, nationally recognized dietitian, and current Miss USA International 2025 — to explore what it really takes to reinvent your life after military service.

Whether you’re navigating transition, battling imposter syndrome, or dreaming bigger than your circumstances, Lisa’s story is your roadmap to rising strong.

00:00 – Intro Trailer

04:50 – Lisa’s Joyful Energy and “Flow” Mentality

05:31 – Fish-Forward Nutrition and Sustainable Wellness

06:49 – True Crime TV and America’s Most Wanted Story

09:39 – Instagram Growth and Meta Verification Secrets

14:50 – Pageant Queen Origins: First Time on Stage

18:44 – Air Force to Runway: How She Did It

22:54 – Squadron Commander Lessons on Leadership

29:50 – Veteran Depression and Finding Post-Service Identity

34:35 – Launching “Vegas Saints” and Creating Legacy Content

39:52 – Why Veterans Need to Prioritize Health Now

46:15 – Purpose and Longevity: What Blue Zones Teach Us

52:13 – Lisa’s NICU Trauma and Motherhood Resilience

1:04:09 – Parenting, Perspective, and Post-Military Healing

1:16:04 – Where Lisa’s Going Next (Cosmetology and Coaching)

1:21:04 – Military vs Civilian Mindset: Owning Your Voice

1:24:04 – Final Message: “You’re Not Too Late — Start Now”

GUEST: LISA TAUAI

Miss USA International 2025

Registered Dietitian, Veteran, Speaker

Instagram: @lisatauai

If Lisa’s story inspired you, be sure to follow, rate, and share this episode. Your support helps us continue amplifying the voices of veterans, leaders, and everyday heroes.

Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🧭 Veterans are quietly leaving the United States… and never looking back.

In this emotional conversation, John H. Davis — combat veteran, Harvard grad, and author — shares why he left America and how life abroad is saving veterans’ lives.

He opens up about:

• The mental health crisis in America

• Why veterans abroad rarely die by suicide

• The dating scene overseas

• Cost of living and living like royalty

• How to start fresh in another country

Could moving abroad be the answer?

📍 TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – Why so many veterans are leaving the U.S.

05:15 – What it’s really like to live abroad

10:42 – Mental health and PTSD abroad vs U.S.

14:35 – “I started sleeping through the night again…”

18:00 – Freedom, peace & perspective

22:55 – Cost of living abroad as a veteran

28:20 – Dating, relationships & lifestyle

35:48 – Suicide rate overseas: near zero

42:10 – Roadmap: how to move abroad

48:36 – Advice for veterans on the edge

54:02 – The retreat idea that could save lives

1:01:05 – Final thoughts & where to find John

🔗 FIND JOHN H. DAVIS

🌍 Website & Free Guide → johnhdaviswriter.com

📚 Books: Combat to College, 365 Days of Veteran Affirmations

📸 Instagram → instagram.com/johnhdaviswriter

🎥 TikTok → tiktok.com/@johnhdaviswriter

🎙️ Subscribe for more powerful veteran stories.

New episodes every other week.

#VeteransLivingAbroad #LifeAfterMilitary #PTSDRecoveryForVets

#VeteranSuicidePrevention #VeteranDatingAbroad #AmericanExpatLife

#JohnHDavis #LoveOverseas #LivingAbroad #HeroFrontPodcast

💬 “I’ve never heard of a veteran suicide overseas.”

In this powerful HeroFront episode, Chief Master Sergeant Jason Stone Weiss shares the raw truth behind real leadership in the military. From losing his hearing twice to serving with elite Special Operations teams, Chief Weiss reveals how rank is earned through trust, service, and sacrifice—not chased.Bottom Line: In this military podcast, Chief Jason Weiss reveals why defaulting to your training is more powerful than motivation. His Air Force leadership story will challenge what you think you know about rank, mentorship, and purpose. Explore veteran stories like never before on HeroFront — the podcast that gives service members a voice.Hear how he turned setbacks into strengthDiscover the philosophy behind “Default to your level of training”Learn why every Airman deserves to be heardWhether you’re active duty, a veteran, or a leader in any field, this conversation will change how you think about purpose, mentorship, and resilience.Hosted by Josh WhiteFilmed at Eglin AFB, FL Medical Group⸻Chapters / Timestamps0:00 - Kadena Hearing Loss + Promotion Setbacks 10:24 - “Your Stripes Don’t Belong to You”: Leadership Truths 14:28 - The Joy of Notifying a Promotion 18:04 - Mentorship From Combat Medic Chief Jason Robbins: Know the Regs 25:52 - From Special Ops to Senior Enlisted Leader 31:49 - Family, Fatherhood, and Finding Balance 35:22 - Parenting Wisdom: Just Love Your Kids 42:13 - Why Purpose Outranks Pain in Training (TCCC) 46:01 - “You Default to Training, Not Expectations” 54:31 - The Books That Changed His Life 1:07:17 - A Trying Time (Cliffhanger Moment) 1:18:25 - History’s Boldest Young Military Leaders 1:20:22 - Civil War & Modern Decentralized Leadership 1:22:12 - AI & Adaptation in the Military Future 1:24:06 - Gratitude, Legacy, and a Leadership Salute ⸻Mentioned in this episode: • The Alchemist • The Daily Stoic • The Way of the Peaceful Warrior • National Defense Strategy • Real-world TCCC Training Insights⸻Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.#Leadership #SpecialOps #HeroFront #MilitaryPodcast #AirForce #JasonWeiss #ChiefWeiss #Resilience #PurposeDriven #VeteranVoices #TCCC #MilitaryMentorship #PodcastChapters⸻

🎙️ Voice for Valor – Leadership, Resilience, and the Power of Storytelling

Out now on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@voiceforvalor?si=YJhTVL_pbufmqdXo

🔊 In This Episode:

In this powerful conversation, Mike Komorous lays the foundation for his new podcast, Voice for Valor, a platform dedicated to sharing the stories of those who serve—past, present, and future. Through candid reflections on leadership, sacrifice, and the emotional toll of military service, Mike explores how authentic storytelling can inspire the next generation and support those transitioning beyond the uniform.

🔥 Key Themes & Takeaways:

The Purpose Behind “Voice for Valor” – Why sharing military stories matters and how it can shape the future of service.

The Hidden Costs of Leadership – The emotional weight of command, the impact of tough decisions, and the burden of responsibility.

The Importance of Seeking Help – A reflection on mental health in the military and the advice Mike would give his younger self.

Personal Branding & Legacy – Why networking, mentorship, and storytelling are vital for those transitioning from military to civilian life.

Resilience & Faith in the Process – Why not everything can be quantified, and how success often comes from trust, persistence, and meaningful connections.

💡 Why This Matters:

The military is more than just service—it’s a lifelong commitment to leadership, resilience, and taking care of those who come after you. Through Voice for Valor, Mike aims to amplify the voices of those who have walked this path, ensuring their experiences continue to inspire and guide future generations.

🎧 Tune in to this compelling discussion and join the movement to honor service through storytelling. 🚀 #VoiceForValor #Leadership #Resilience #ServiceBeyondTheUniform

In this powerful episode of the HeroFront Podcast, host Josh White sits down with Kelsey Danner, a former United States Navy member who served from 2004 to 2014 as a damage control specialist. 0:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction 0:02:59 - Memorable Basic Training Story 0:05:38 - Challenges of Being a Female Veteran 0:07:24 - Advice to Younger Self 0:09:14 - Prideful Military Moment 0:15:41 - Medical Retirement Journey 0:20:08 - Transitioning Out of the Military 0:24:59 - Leadership Lessons 0:32:03 - Challenges of Being a Female Veteran 0:41:59 - Addressing Stigma and Misconceptions 0:48:23 - Importance of Sharing Military Experiences 0:54:05 - Efforts to Enhance Quality of Life in the Military 1:19:53 - Personal Reflections and Gratitude 1:22:50 - Challenges and Resilience in Transitioning Out of the Military 1:24:23 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement Kelsey shares her inspiring journey, from the memorable stories of basic training to the challenges she faced as a female veteran. She opens up about the difficult decision to medically retire from the military due to a rare heart condition, and the emotional and mental health struggles she navigated during her transition to civilian life. Throughout the conversation, Kelsey provides valuable insights on effective leadership, the importance of community and support for veterans, and the need to educate others about the contributions of women in the military. Her resilience and determination shine through as she recounts her proudest moments, including her ship's response to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the experiences of veterans, especially female service members. Kelsey's story is a testament to the strength, courage, and perseverance that define the military community. Listeners will be left inspired and empowered to support and advocate for those who have served.

Dale R. Marks, the Executive Director of the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, to discuss his extraordinary journey of leadership, resilience, and perseverance. From a childhood shaped by the values of a World War II POW great-uncle and a NASA rocket scientist father to a career marked by 15 deployments and profound personal struggles, Dale’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. 0:00 - Introduction 4:00 - Office Tour 6:20 - Dale’s Upbringing & Early Influences 10:40 - The Importance of the Journey 14:00 - “Bump the Lamp” Philosophy 16:30 - Dale’s Career & Deployments 20:10 - The Impact of 9/11 & Personal Sacrifices 24:30 - Resilience After Traumatic Experiences 28:40 - The Role of Support & Community 32:30 - Leadership Philosophies: Value, Purpose, and Perspective 36:20 - Dale’s Leadership Style & Impact 41:00 - Final Thoughts & Conclusion Dale opens up about a life-changing IED explosion in Iraq, the chronic pain that followed, and how those experiences reshaped his leadership approach. He emphasizes the importance of value, purpose, and perspective in both personal and professional life, highlighting the power of small acts of excellence, like “bumping the lamp,” and the critical role of community and support in overcoming life’s toughest challenges. In this episode, we dive deep into Dale’s philosophy of leadership, resilience, and how to turn adversity into a source of strength. Learn how he leads with empathy, seeks purpose beyond self, and encourages others to push through pain while embracing hope and perspective. Join us for a conversation filled with wisdom, heart, and an inspiring reminder of what it means to lead with integrity and purpose.

Today, we have the privilege of speaking with a true legend - Jim Clash, the renowned adventure journalist from Forbes magazine. 0:00 - Intro

3:11 - Jim Clash's Background and Early Life


4:02 - Transition to Journalism and Joining Forbes


6:46 - Expanding Adventure Writing at Forbes


8:03 - Dangerous and Memorable Adventures


9:33 - Space and Aviation Adventures


13:09 - Interviews with Famous Figures


14:35 - More Memorable Interviews and Experiences


16:38 - Future Aspirations and Legacy


18:49 - Closing Remarks and Gratitude


20:09 - Discussing Perceived vs. Actual Risk


25:00 - Lessons Learned from Adventurous Mindset


30:00 - Inspiring Others Through Storytelling


35:00 - Navigating Challenges and Setbacks


40:00 - The Allure of the Unknown and Unexplored


45:00 - Maintaining Passion and Curiosity Over Time


50:00 - Advice for Aspiring Adventurers and Risk-Takers


55:00 - Final Thoughts and Legacy Reflections
For over 30 years, Jim has been pushing the boundaries of what's possible, traveling the world to cover the most extreme and daring feats imaginable. From surfing 60-foot waves in Portugal to flying fighter jets at Mach 2, Jim has done it all in the name of captivating storytelling. But Jim's journey is more than just a series of adrenaline-fueled escapades. It's a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit of adventure. As an average guy who has achieved the extraordinary, Jim's story is one that will inspire you to reach for your own dreams, no matter how lofty they may seem. So buckle up, because you're about to embark on a wild ride through the life and times of the one and only Jim Clash. Articles on Jim: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimclash/2025/01/20/career-paths-less-taken-are-they-da-bomb-or-do-they-bomb-you-judge/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimclash/2025/01/18/finding-unexploded-wwii-bombs-in-germany-is-run-of-the-mill-huh/ https://www.kathysullivanexplores.com/podcast/the-life-of-a-participatory-adventurer-and-journalist-with-jim-clash

General Michael "Johnny Bravo" Rowley, a true living legend in the Air Force. From his humble beginnings as a military brat to his rise through the ranks, this decorated pilot shares his remarkable journey - from navigating the fog of war in the A-10 Warthog to leading at the highest levels of the Pentagon. Discover the leadership lessons he learned under fire and the mental resilience he developed in combat, Hear how his chance encounter with leadership guru Simon Sinek shaped his approach to guiding airmen, and learn why the brotherhood of ground and air forces is so vital to mission success. 0:00 - Intro

02:55 - Connection with Simon Sinek and leadership development
04:25 - Josh's experience meeting Simon Sinek at Whiteman Air Force Base
08:40 - Josh's Airman of the Year experience and breakfast with Simon Sinek
12:25 - General's TED Talk experience and leadership philosophy
14:40 - Hesitation to do the TED Talk and Simon Sinek's encouragement
18:00 - Generational shift and personal reflections on feeling "old"
20:10 - Josh's transition to civilian life and the challenges of adapting
22:40 - General's upbringing as a military brat and journey through the Air Force
26:25 - Significant events in the General's career, including 9/11
30:10 - The General's experience at AFOTECH and the team dynamics
33:00 - Importance of relationships and communication at AFOTECH
35:00 - General's combat experience and the mission discussed in his TED Talk
38:10 - Navigating through weather and engaging enemy forces
42:10 - Importance of mental resilience and combat stress management
45:00 - Role of informal support systems and having a "wingman"
48:25 - Balancing high-level decisions and staying connected to airmen
52:00 - Communicating the "why" behind decisions to the team
54:40 - General's message to airmen about adaptability and resilience
1:00:10 - Challenges and responsibilities in the global context
1:04:00 - Emphasis on leadership development and professional competence
1:08:00 - Josh's firsthand experience and observations in Israel
1:10:25 - General's call sign story and personal anecdote
1:13:40 - Closing remarks and gratitude

A 1996 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Maj. Gen. Drowley is a command pilot with more than 2,400 flight hours in the iconic A-10 Warthog, including over 200 combat hours. His combat experiences, particularly in close air support, exemplify the deep bond between air and ground forces. Throughout his career, he has commanded at every level—flight, squadron, group, and wing—while also holding pivotal roles at the United States Air Force Academy, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Beyond his operational excellence, Maj. Gen. Drowley is a passionate advocate for leadership, mental resilience, and teamwork. From delivering a TEDx talk to collaborating with Simon Sinek, he has inspired countless individuals within and beyond the military.

In this insightful episode of the HeroFront Podcast, host Josh White welcomes Major General Alice W. Trevino, a distinguished leader and trailblazer in the United States Air Force and Space Force. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Contracting in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, General Trevino oversees a staggering $825 billion portfolio, guiding over 8,000 contracting professionals who execute programs valued at approximately $70 billion annually. Commissioned from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1993, her extensive career includes deployment experiences supporting combat, humanitarian, and peacekeeping operations worldwide, and leadership roles such as the senior contracting official in Afghanistan for U.S. Central Command.

In this episode, General Trevino shares insights on personal growth, leadership, and resilience, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and authenticity. She discusses her health journey and the lessons she’s learned, including her memorable mantra, "squeeze your glutes," which has guided her recovery and approach to life. General Trevino also opens up about her mission to inspire and recruit the next generation of contracting professionals, offering invaluable advice for junior Airmen, Guardians, civil servants, and potential recruits interested in contracting.

Join us as we explore Major General Trevino’s inspiring journey, her philosophy on leading with authenticity and inclusivity, and the transformative power of valuing every individual’s contribution. Whether you’re navigating your own path in the military or seeking motivation in personal growth, this conversation is packed with lessons and inspiration that will resonate with all.

The AFSA Summit 2024 special episode! Check out the live feed from https://www.facebook.com/AFSAHQ

In this special episode of the AFSA Summit Podcast, join Josh White (HeroFront Podcast), as he speaks with AFSA influencers Kai Billings, and Mike Manning (CRE8 FORCE) who are capturing the AFSA Summit experience and interviewing our Airmen and Guardians. They also have backup support from Martin Foster from Passing the Torch Podcast and Miguel Estrella from The Mentorship. Keep an eye out for these folks to share your story!

Join us in this episode as we dive deep into leadership, innovation, and empowerment within the Air Force culture. The conversation explores a range of key topics, from fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to the challenges of mental health and authenticity as a content creator.

The hosts share personal anecdotes and experiences on the importance of treating people as humans, embracing storytelling as a leadership tool, and overcoming comparison. They also highlight the role of allyship and how empathetic, supportive leadership can foster growth and success. From the funny moments of podcasting mishaps to more serious discussions on workplace bias and military retention, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, personal growth, and how to create positive change in the Air Force and beyond.

Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt conversation that reminds us of the power of empathy, storytelling, and authentic leadership.

Juneteenth Special! This is a co-led interview as the talk with Abigail Curtis is based off her incredible article she released through the legendary ‘COME-UNITY Magazine’. Check out her article here: https://issuu.com/kmcclure/docs/come_unity_abigail_cover_2/s/50272045? "COME-UNITY Magazine and Podcast led by the CEO Kitara Johnson, is proudly presented as a program of the nonprofit COME-UNITY Education and Empowerment Center. Our nonprofit is made possible through the generous support of veterans, community leaders, and changemakers who are deeply committed to fostering UNITY, INCLUSION, and providing crucial support to underrepresented community members. Their dedication and contributions drive our mission forward, ensuring that COME-UNITY remains a platform for positive change, celebration of diversity, and empowerment for all." Intro: Lt Col Abigail S. Curtis stands as a beacon of inspiration within the halls of Fairchild Air Force Base, serving as the distinguished Commander of the 92d Maintenance Squadron. Her remarkable journey is not just about rank and accolades, but a testament to the enduring values of diversity, inclusion, resilience, and leadership. Join us as we delve into her story, exploring the trials and triumphs that have shaped her into the exemplary leader she is today. From her humble beginnings as a military child to her current role as squadron commander, she has defied expectations and shattered stereotypes at every turn. As we reflect on her story, let us not only celebrate her achievements but also heed the lessons she imparts. For in Lt Col Curtis's journey, we find inspiration and hope for a future where diversity is not just embraced but celebrated, and where resilience knows no bounds. Talking Points Include: —Early Life and Military Upbringing— Lt Col Curtis's upbringing was steeped in the rich tapestry of military life, where diversity was not just a concept but a lived reality. Growing up in a close-knit military community, she absorbed the values of service, sacrifice, and solidarity. The influence of her father, a military serviceman, was profound, instilling in her a sense of duty and discipline from a young age. His commitment to his country and his family laid the foundation for Lt Col Curtis's own journey of service. —Embracing Diversity and Overcoming Adversity— Lt Col Curtis's personal journey as a woman of color in an interracial relationship is a testament to her resilience in the face of adversity. She reflects on the obstacles she encountered and the strength she drew from her experiences. Through hardship and discrimination, Lt Col Curtis emerged stronger, her resolve unshaken. Her story underscores the importance of embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, not just within the military but in society at large. —Leadership Journey in the Air Force— Lt Col Curtis's ascent through the ranks of the Air Force is a testament to her leadership prowess. From her early days as a young officer to her current role as squadron commander, she has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication. Her assignments and deployments have taken her to the far corners of the globe, where she has played a vital role in global airlift operations. —Advocacy and Impact— In her capacity as a Defense Legislative Fellow in Congress, Lt Col Curtis has wielded her influence to effect change and shape policy. Her advocacy for women, children, and families has left an indelible mark on the defense landscape. Through her leadership philosophy and vision for the 92d Maintenance Squadron, Lt Col Curtis continues to inspire those under her command to reach for new heights and push beyond perceived limitations. Her legacy is not just one of rank and title, but of service and sacrifice, of breaking barriers and blazing trails for future generations to follow.

(Disclaimer: HeroFront is privately owned and operated. This episode is not sponsored by DoD, USAF, or Fairchild AFB)

Choosing Hope In The Shadows of Grief: Nicholas Taylor's Tribute to his Daughter's Legacy through Heartfelt Leadership, Empathy, and Authentic Connection This episode is in loving memory of Denesha Carmella Taylor Chief Taylor serves as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. In this role, he stands as the foremost enlisted advisor to the Wing Commander, overseeing the well-being, readiness, and development of over 8,000 military and civilian personnel. Introduction: Command Chief Master Sergeant Nicholas Taylor takes delves into the realms of leadership, resilience, and the delicate balance between military duty and family life. Leadership Insights: (00:08:45 - 00:11:20) Chief Taylor emphasizes the importance of respect, trust, and empathy in effective leadership. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: (00:15:30 - 00:18:10) Chief Taylor recounts personal stories of overcoming setbacks and challenges, highlighting the importance of resilience. Prioritizing Family and Service: (00:22:55 - 00:25:40) Chief Taylor discusses the balance between military service and family life, emphasizing the importance of investing time and energy in family relationships. Building Trust and Relationships: (00:30:15 - 00:32:50) Chief Taylor shares insights on building trust and rapport, stressing the importance of authenticity and integrity. Nicholas Taylor's legacy looms large, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. Through the prism of leadership, resilience, and familial bonds, Chief Taylor imparts timeless wisdom, illuminating our path with clarity and purpose.

"Choosing Purpose Over Promotion: The Resilient Leadership Blueprint of Abi Scott"

Chief Scott, Chief of Enlisted Force Development at Headquarters United States Space Force, brings a wealth of experience and insight. From strategic vision to advising top leadership, he's shaping the future of enlisted Guardians. With a diverse background spanning satellite communications, cyber defense, and intelligence operations, Chief Scott's perspective is invaluable.

Here's what you can expect in this episode:

- The importance of authenticity and caring in leadership roles, and how genuine connections can significantly impact motivation and well-being.

- Strategies for navigating challenges and conflicting values in leadership, with an emphasis on resilience and continuous growth.

- The pivotal role of teamwork and collaboration in leadership success, and the positive impact of supportive environments on individual and collective achievement.

- The transformative power of mentorship and genuine relationships in personal and professional development, and how they contribute to resilience and self-awareness.

- Strategies for overcoming setbacks and finding purpose amidst challenges, highlighting the journey from adversity to success.

- The intersection of personal and professional identities, as exemplified through anecdotes about family life and self-discovery in the military context.

- Innovative approaches to leadership education and the importance of experiential learning and connection-building among enlisted personnel.

0:00 - Intro

4:00 - Authenticity and caring in a pep talk
7:19 - Leadership, values, and motivation in the Air Force 13:15 - Leadership lessons learned and prioritization 10:03 - Teamwork, leadership, and collaboration in the military 25:07 - Leadership, mentorship, and friendship 33:14 - Personal growth and relationships 37:42 - Leadership perspectives and providing meaning to Air Force personnel 43:09 - Air Force and Space Force leadership 46:17 - Background, leadership, and Space Force experience 52:33 - Career setbacks and personal growth in the military 58:02 - Marriage, family, and self-discovery 1:02:18 - Parenting, PME, and service branch differences 1:08:25 - Creating a new type of leadership program 1:12:53 - Leadership and education innovation 1:15:57 - Leadership, courage, and purpose

BONUS HALLOWEEN EPISODE!

0:00 - Intro

2:55 - My talk with Luke

50:25 - Wartime Stories Full Episode (featuring Josh's grandfather Col Guy Frost Hicks)

In the immersive podcast episode - host Josh White engages in a riveting dialogue with YouTuber Luke, delving deep into a tapestry of intriguing themes, from UFO sightings and unexplained phenomena to the interplay between military service and paranormal encounters. Unveiling the inexplicable nature of ghostly encounters and haunted military locations, the conversation peels back layers of mystery, highlighting the profound impact of emotions on these enigmatic settings. With detailed accounts of UFO sightings and a contemplative exploration of supernatural beliefs, the episode masterfully weaves together personal narratives, theories, and the importance of storytelling. It culminates in a poignant reflection on the lessons learned from experiences in the Marine Corps, leaving audiences with a powerful testament to the significance of humility and narrative in unraveling the mysteries that surround us. This podcast serves as a captivating journey through the unknown, inviting introspection and appreciation for the enigmatic wonders of the world.

Luke Lamana is a Marine Corps Reconnaissance veteran whose quiet passion for listening to and sharing stories, combined with his fascination with the strange and unexplained, has led to the creation of Wartime Stories, a channel dedicated to reliving the terrifying, mysterious and often unexplained paranormal experiences of military service members from around the world.

Hearing a story being narrated is one thing, but Luke was raised on radio dramas. He recognizes the immersive effect that environmental sound has on the context of any narrative. As such, his storytelling style is made unique not only through the style of animated artwork but through his use of audio production to immerse his audience in the sound environment of the story. Listeners feel as if they are reliving the stories from the perspective of the witnesses telling them.

Whether from a time of war or during peace time military operations, whether on base in or close proximity to military installations, Wartime Stories' growing audience never tires of listening to new stories involving military encounters with the dark, mysterious and paranormal.

DOES NOT REPRESENT THE DOD OR ANY OF ITS COMPONENTS - THIS IS PERSONAL STORIES AND OPINIONS

This is a special SUMMIT edition podcast episode! Join us in talking with the legendary Influencer - Riley! Known as Rye.Roast on Instagram and most notably RyeRoast on TikTok!

"RyeRoast" and Her Journey of Relentless Grit: How Riley is Positively Impacting The USAF and The World

Intro In this captivating podcast episode, we embark on a journey through the lives of individuals connected to the Air Force. From personal struggles to remarkable accomplishments, these interviews shine a light on the diverse experiences of those who serve our nation. Get ready to be inspired as we dive into their stories, discovering the true strength and resilience of the Air Force. Becoming a Medic in the Military (5:43) Joining the military for a higher purpose, influenced by a dedicated father who served as a police officer, Riley shares the journey of overcoming physical and mental challenges. The proudest Air Force moment is a testament to unwavering commitment and determination. Riley's Social Media Journey (10:09) Riley's path to social media success is a fascinating one, intricately intertwined with past relationships and a mental health journey. Through content creation, including the famous pants, Riley discovered a unique voice and a supportive community. Her ability to connect with ideal subscribers highlights the therapeutic aspect of social media. Sharing Stories to Help Others (20:55) Riley's battle with PTSD and the long road to diagnosis transformed personal trauma into a means of support for others. Her journey underscores the importance of embracing bravery and strength in adversity and advocating for mental health within the Air Force. The Real Strength of the Air Force (26:00) In a critical incident that prompted action and advocacy, we gain insight into the life of an Air Force instructor. This incident unveiled hidden knowledge gaps among airmen, emphasizing the importance of peer-to-peer connection and sharing experiences. It's a reminder that the true strength of the Air Force lies in its ability to adapt, learn, and grow together. Leadership Style and Proud Moments (31:41) A unique leadership approach is explored, emphasizing mentorship and education for airmen. Acknowledging the diversity of knowledge and skills within the Air Force, the narrative highlights a proud career moment that underscores the power of nurturing talent and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Riley's Impact and Commitment (36:35) Riley's advocacy journey has left a profound impact on those she connects with. Her unwavering commitment to supporting others, especially those in need of someone to talk to, demonstrates the power of compassion and empathy within the Air Force community. She is a beacon of hope and a source of strength for many. Final Thoughts In this podcast episode, we've embarked on a remarkable journey through the lives of individuals whose connection to the Air Force goes far beyond duty. These stories, marked by resilience, determination, and compassion, inspire us to embrace our own journeys. The lessons remind us that, in unity, we find our greatest power. Dive deeper into these inspiring SUMMIT discussions and stories by tuning in to the full episode, and let the spirit of the showing up for yourself guide your own journey of service and resilience.