Left Face

What does it take for a veteran to transition from military service to the political arena? Today, we are thrilled to be joined by Mike Pierson, a seasoned veteran who's running for House District 22 in Colorado. Mike sheds light on his unique journey, sharing his rich background in political science, journalism, and public affairs during his Air Force career. We also delve into the inner wor...

What if your city banned something that had overwhelming public support? Join us as we unpack our recent experiences and delve into the heated debate over recreational cannabis legalization in Colorado Springs. Despite huge public backing, the city counsel is trying to ban recreational sales in the city charter. Drawing from Dick Wilkinson's firsthand experiences in New Mexico, we explore the...

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Pablo Capistrano, Veteran Outreach Committee Chair for the El Paso County Democratic Party, and Jeremy Dowell, a passionate District Attorney candidate. Pablo recounts the unexpected yet heartwarming experiences at the Pikes Peak Regional Air Show, where his team connected with a broad spectrum of veterans and military community members. This episode sh...

Why did Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin make a controversial move to rescind the plea agreement for the 9/11 attackers? In this episode of the All Things Military Veteran Podcast, we unpack the intricacies behind this significant decision. We'll explore Austin's unexpected hospital stay last December and its potential influence on his actions. This move, which has far-reaching implicat...

Curious about how political ideologies evolve through personal experiences? Our new co-host, Dick Wilkinson, shares his journey from a conservative upbringing in Texas to a broad-minded perspective shaped by his military service.  We'll explore the intricate balance veterans face between libertarian principles and governmental necessities. Hear firsthand how personal and ethical dilemmas unfo...

Drawing from the profound experiences of military life and the complexities of parenting, Megan—a military spouse and mother to three—joins me to share her unique perspective on the highly charged debate around arming teachers in Colorado Springs' District 20. Our discussion ventures beyond the mere policy implications, touching upon the emotional and psychological effects such measures could...

Have you ever wondered how veterans continue to shape our political landscape post-service? Join me as I sit down with Pablo Capistrano from the El Paso County Democratic Party Veterans Outreach Committee to unravel the depths of veterans' political activism and the pressing need for their voices in today's democracy. Pablo sheds light on the importance of dispelling myths about party al...

Join us as we traverse the volatile terrain of global conflicts and American politics with Joe Reagan from the Welcome Party. Unpack the complex Ukraine-Russian war, its ripple effects on international relations, and the potential influence on the Israel-Hamas conflict. We dive into the intricate details of the war, exploring its impact on both nations and the global community, while highlighting...

Get ready for a riveting exploration into the treacherous waters of school board politics as our guest, Rob Rogers, the first vice chair of El Paso County Democratic Party, sheds light on the recent elections and their implications. Discover how conservative extremists have seized control of the two largest school districts of El Paso County, D11 and D20, and what that means for public education....

What if you could transform your biggest traumas into your greatest strengths? Join us in a deep dive as Matt Simpson, author of 'Worth the Fight: Acting for a Better World,' charts a remarkable course from corporate America to an empowering servant to the military and veteran community. Matt’s story is one of selfless service, donating all the profits from his book to veteran charities...

Ever wondered how a yes or no vote on Proposition HH could change the future of your property taxes? Ponder no more! I'm your host, Adam Gillard, and in this episode, we're breaking down the impacts of Proposition HH - a legislation aimed at reducing property taxes for homes and businesses for at least a decade. We'll walk you through what voting 'yes' or 'no' wo...

Imagine, as a veteran, finding solace not just in the understanding companionship of fellow veterans but also in the healing embrace of nature and its adventures. This captivating episode introduces you to Mark Fruehling, an Army veteran who is on a mission to create such a space. Mark and other members of the Paso County, Colorado Progressive Veterans group share a common goal – to alleviate the...

Join us as we navigate the labyrinth of VA benefits with our guest, Mike Walljasper, a seasoned veteran of the VA DBA office. Mike, who's been with the VA since 2006, provides an insider's view into the transformative shifts that the VA has undergone, from paper to digital, and how these changes have significantly improved the way veterans are served, even amidst a global pandemic.  Prep...

What if your mailbox was your ballot box? That's the revolutionary idea we explore with our passionate guest, Rich Lins, more affectionately known as The Stamp Guy. After a personal experience hunting for a 71 cent stamp to mail his ballot, Rich was awakened to the pivotal role of accessible voting. Uncover the lesser-known US Postal Service policy that ensures ballots are delivered regardles...

The fine line between news and propaganda is blurring, with biased sources and echo chambers dominating the American political landscape. This episode takes you on a journey through this maze, shedding light on the right's repackaging of pro-life messaging and the alarming possibility of democracy's end game. Get ready for a deep dive into how to determine valid news and spot hidden bias...

Gabe and I talk about leaving behind past traumas and focusing on the future. Gabe talks about how he copes with his PTSD. He speaks candidly about how microdosing ketamine  has helped keep him here with us. Tune in for his story. Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social https://www.facebook.com/epccpv www. EPCCPV.org or info@epccpv.org

This one gets intense! I was fortunate enough to speak with a new friend this last  week. In Part I, Gabe tells us about how he was raised in a Neo-Nazi family. His family was close with a leader of the KKK/Aryan Nation. We talk about the issue and some things he saw growing up.  Next time, we will discuss his breaking away from the ideology and his time in the Air Force. Thanks for listening, Sta...

Local political activist, John Morris, talks about the process for being a candidate and making changes. Colorado Springs is booming! Your Democratic Party is always looking for strong candidates. If you are interested please reach out on the website. Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social https://www.facebook.com/epccpv www. EPCCPV.org or info@epccpv.org

My wife, Hartini, joins me to talk about our time up in Cripple Creek for Donkey Derby Days. We also talk about the Space Command staying in Colorado Springs and Sen Tuberville's hold on military promotions.  Find out out what is going on with your local Progressive Vets group. Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social https://www.facebook.com/epccpv www. EPCCPV.org or in...

My good friend and local author, Robert Rogers, joins me in the studio to talk about how  he became an author and entrepreneur. Robert shares his secrets to success. Find out what helped him, and me, stay on target. Find all 3 of Rob's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Robert-Rogers/author/B089LX6QZT?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnab...

My wife, Hart, joins me as we were very fortunate to be able to talk with David Torres. David is running for Congress against Rep. Lamborn. We talk about his inspiration for running and some of his thoughts on how to effectively govern. We also address Rep Lamborn's recent  tweets at USAFA leadership curriculum. Find out what Mr. Torres has to say about these topics and more... Send us a text...

I speak with the founder of the Government Contracting Academy, Randy Wimmer. Randy is on a mission to teach people how to land contracts with the world's #1 purchaser of goods. The US Government.  As vets we have a leg up, and Randy explains how he leveraged his Navy experience into a couple start-up companies. (One of which he sold for 8 figures!)  Find out how Randy did it. Randal Wimmer C...

Today we welcome to the show C. David Cain - the CEO and Chief Hero Evangelist of Heroes Home Advantage. He has over 20 years of experience as a top-producing Loan Officer, but is on a mission to create brand awareness for the largest hero rebate program in the country when buying or selling real estate! Learn how you can save big money when buying a home! CONNECT WITH DAVID David@HeroesHomeAdvant...

Adam is joined by Jose and another Vet, Israel Parkinson. The three of them discuss transitioning from a high paced operational environment to a more "normal" way of life. Israel also talks about the program he used to get his welding schooling in San Diego, CA.  Listen how these vets transitioned into civilian life. Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social https://...

Finally! The party has begun. Today, I talk with Naomi Wyatt. She is the Chief of operations for The Welcome Party.  Her organization is looking to bring democrats and non-affiliated voters together  to Win the Middle and keep pushing democratic agendas. Send us a text https://bsky.app/profile/leftfaceco.bsky.social https://www.facebook.com/epccpv www. EPCCPV.org or info@epccpv.org