Chat 62

In the final chapter of his story, Darwin GlavezDiaz takes us through life after Okinawa — the long road home, the frustrations of missed reenlistment, and the hard lessons of transitioning back to civilian life. From the pride of earning his Corporal chevrons overseas to coming home to an empty base, Darwin opens up about the challenges, the humor, and the growth that come with hanging up the uni...

We continue with Part Two of Corporal Darwin Glavez Diaz’s story — picking up right after boot camp as he returns home in uniform, full of pride, and ready for what’s next. Darwin talks about the highs of recruiter’s assistance, the humbling realization that life keeps moving while you’re gone, and the wild ride that followed at Marine Combat Training and Camp Johnson . From red-taped lockers to l...

Season Three of the Chat 62 Podcast kicks off with Corporal Darwin GlavezDiaz. From his roots in LA and Central California to the yellow footprints at MCRD San Diego, Darwin shares the ups and downs of his path to becoming a Marine. He opens up about life as the son of Salvadoran immigrants, nearly losing his shot at enlistment after being falsely named in a gang stabbing, and the challenges of DE...

September 11th, 2001 changed everything. Twenty-four years later, the memories live on through the voices of Marine & Navy Veterans who served before, during, and after that day. In this bonus episode of the Chat 62 Podcast, we revisit powerful moments from Season 2—featuring Paul Stringer, Henry Rodriguez, Dani Mercy, Gunny Moon, and Lyndon Walker—as they share reflections shaped by that day...

“Life After the Corps.” In the final chapter of Lyndon Walker’s journey, he reflects on life after the Marine Corps —but not before finishing strong. Walker shares what it was like trying to find his place in the civilian world after wearing the uniform. He opens up about making up for lost time after the Brig, his first marriage , becoming a father , and eventually finding love and stability late...

“Brig Time and Redemption.” In Part Two of Lance Corporal Lyndon Walker’s journey, things take a turn. Walker shares what led to his time in the Brig , the demotion in rank, on-base restriction , and how he fought to rebuild his reputation and finish his enlistment with dignity. From joining the PAC to facing the consequences of one bad night—this is a story about accountability, resilience , and...

“From the Lost Coast to the 62 Area.” In Part One of Lance Corporal Lyndon Walker’s journey, we trace his beginnings in Humboldt County—aka The Lost Coast . Walker opens up about growing up in a small town in Northern California and the culture shock he felt when he reported to his first duty station. He walks us through MCRD, MEPS, PA School, and finally reporting to 1st Combat Engineer Battalion...

In the conclusion of her three-part journey, Navy veteran Dani Mercy opens up about life after the uniform. Medically retired due to the trauma she endured during service, Dani had to rebuild—not just her life, but her identity. In this episode, we talk about where that road has led: marriage, motherhood, and finding her voice through podcasting. From co-hosting various shows to now running her ow...

Some stories are heavier than others. In Part 2 of Dani Mercy’s interview, she shares the painful truth about what happened during her time in uniform—and how she’s finding her voice through it all.  Content Warning: Military Trauma #chat62tuesdays #VeteranVoices #WomenVeterans #USN #navyveteran #USMC #MilitaryLife #militarysurvivor #veteransspeak #StayTheCourse #Chat62Podcast #TheRabbitHolePodcas...

In this special episode, we welcome our first Navy veteran and first female guest, Dani Mercy , host of The Rabbit Hole: Conspiracy Theories podcast. Before she was exploring wild conspiracies, Dani was navigating her own life-changing journey—from Color Guard routines and working at Jamba Juice to standing in line at MEPS and heading off to Navy boot camp at Great Lakes, Illinois. Join us as Dani...

In the final installment of Gunnery Sergeant Moon’s story, we explore the quieter, heavier aftermath of combat—and the unshakable call to lead. Gunny shares what the “decompression period” really looked like for him. He opens up about the emotional toll of war—PTSD triggers—and the lack of mental health resources available at the time. After completing his second enlistment, Moon transitioned into...

We’re back with Gunnery Sergeant Moon for Part Two of his story—and things heat up fast (literally). From the legendary La Tiendita runs and the stomach-wrecking consequences of Mama’s Burritos to an unexpected trip to see the infamous Doc Brock at the Regimental Aid Station, Gunny keeps it real. He reflects on his time with 5th Marines, making the move to I&I duty, and where he was on the day the...

In this episode, we sit down with Gunnery Sergeant Moon as he reflects on the path that led him to the United States Marine Corps— after finishing college. Gunny shares the motivation behind his life-changing decision to enlist at a more mature age and how that shaped his outlook from day one. From stepping onto the Yellow Footprints at MCRD San Diego to the humbling realization that Marines come...

In this final chapter of Corporal Henry Rodriguez’s story, we follow his return from deployment and his transition back to life in the U.S. A blind date for the Marine Corps Ball turns into a life-changing moment, shaping his future in unexpected ways. As fate would have it, Henry’s last year in the Marine Corps is spent at the PAC, where he picks up the rank of Corporal. With his promotion comes...

In this episode, we continue the story of Corporal Henry Rodriguez as he arrives to Camp Pendleton and reports to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (3/5) and experiences his first-ever La Tiendita visit, capturing the quintessential Marine Corps experience if you were stationed on the northern side of Camp Pendleton. We follow his deployment journey with 3rd Battalion 5th Marines (3/5), NTA, Jungle Warfa...

In this episode, we sit down with Corporal Henry Rodriguez for the first part of an in-depth conversation about his journey. Henry shares his early memories of growing up in Oceanside, his decision to join the Marine Corps, the benefits of the Buddy Program, and what it was like to train as a pre-Crucible Marine. He also gives some hard-earned advice on the importance of getting everything in writ...

Oh, there you are! It’s been a minute since the guys last recorded. Join Monarca and Almanza as they catch up and recap the past three months. They talk about visiting MCRD San Diego and their old stomping grounds at Camp Pendleton, reflect on the recent Southern California fires, and share personal updates. Expect a classic Monarca rant and an insightful conversation on mental health from Almanza...

In this special episode of Chat 62, we take you to the heart of the 2024 Veterans Day Celebration and Resource Fair. Join the team as we hear messages from veterans, veteran families and gracious civilians as well as a behind-the-scenes look at how we celebrated this import day with the people who inspire us the most. #Chat62Tuesdays #veterans #vets #USMC #semperfi #military #militaryfamilies

Redemption, Renewal, and Purpose: Paul Stringer's Conclusion Paul's final episode is a powerful exploration of: The struggles and triumphs of his last year in the Corps. Finding love and stability amidst chaos The transformative power of faith and redemption Building a new life and discovering purpose. Join Erik and Martin on Chat 62 as Paul shares his remarkable story of resilience and rebirth. D...

Paul Stringer's Marine Corps journey continues! In Part 2, Paul shares more unforgettable stories from his time in the 1/5, including: Life in the 1/5 barracks - where camaraderie meets chaos The highs and lows of deployment, and typhoon parties in Okinawa - the ultimate combination of stormy weather and Esprit de Corps! And a visit from the Internet Slayer... #Chat62Tuesdays #Stringer #VeteranPod...

Season 2 Premiere: "A Legacy of Service" Join hosts Erik Monarca and Martin Almanza as they welcome Marine Corps Veteran Corporal Paul Stringer to the Chat 62 Podcast. In this unforgettable conversation, Paul shares his remarkable journey: From sun-kissed Southern California to the other side of country in Kentucky, Paul recounts his life-changing move and the cultural shock that came with it. Dis...

In this special bonus episode of Chat 62, we honor the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 by sharing personal stories from five Marines who reflect on their experiences during that pivotal moment in history. #chat62podcast #911 #usmc #veterans #vets #marinecorps #Nevarez #Ramsey #Tippins #Monarca #Almanza #988

In this Bonus Episode of Chat 62, we explore the intricate relationships between connection, wellness and vulnerability. Join us as we delve into the way in which forming genuine connections with our fellow Marines can impact our overall well-being, and how embracing vulnerability can be a powerful tool for building deeper more meaningful relationships. #chat62podcast #chatsixtytuesdays #bonusepis...

Welcome to Chat 62. In this episode, we conclude Erik Monarca's story. He discusses life, post-Marine Corps, 9/11, becoming a father, marriage(s), becoming a father, acclimating to life in a new city, life in Nevada, and a devasting, life-altering event that changed life forever. #chatsixtytuesdays #chat62podcast #mrEAS #marinecorps #veterans #USMC #redrock #fatherhood #hiking #hikemonarkhike...

In this special bonus episode of Chat 62, we dive into the importance of Wellness Checks for mental health. Join as we explore the significance of regular check-ins, self-care, and support networks. Tune in as we emphasize the importance of proactive mental health care and encourage listeners to take control of their Wellness Journey. Remember, checking in on your mental health care and encourage...