Stephen Konopka & Georgia Varoucha

Guard 2 Guard podcast

Leisure EN ↓ 20 episodes

Welcome to the Guard2Guard Podcast — your inside source for everything related to the Army National Guard. Whether you’re considering joining or you’re already serving, this podcast offers real stories, real insights, and real conversations from soldiers across the country. Each episode dives into why people chose to join the Guard, the benefits and career opportunities they’ve unlocked, and how the National Guard has shaped their lives. From education and financial perks to service experiences and personal growth, Guard2Guard is your guide to understanding the full value of wearing the unifor...

Be sure to visit the podcast's website and support the creator: www.buzzsprout.com

Author

Stephen Konopka & Georgia Varoucha

Category

Leisure

Podcast website

www.buzzsprout.com

Latest episode

May 16, 2025

Where to listen?

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Episodes

11A: The Infantry Mindset w/ CPT Majied 16.05.2025

From SMP cadet at Rutgers Army ROTC to Infantry Commander with deployments to Africa and Syria, CPT Majied has lived the full spectrum of leadership in the Army National Guard. In this season of  Guard 2 Guard: Inside the MOS , we sit down with CPT Majied to unpack the 11A Infantry Officer experience — the mindset, the missions, the growth, and the grind. He breaks down what it means to lead troop...

The 09M Path: Inside the Future Soldier Prep Course 09.05.2025

This season on the Guard 2 Guard Podcast , we're covering every single MOS in the Army National Guard and we're kicking it off at the very beginning: the 09M Future Soldier Preparatory Course. SPC Varouchas shares how he entered the Army National Guard through the 09M Future Soldier Preparatory Course , a program designed to help recruits meet the ASVAB academic standards — and how he di...

🎙️ Season 2 Premiere – "No Excuses: Every MOS, Every Soldier" 08.05.2025

Welcome to Season 2 of the Guard 2 Guard Podcast — where we’re doubling down on what matters most: the soldiers . This season, we’re going beyond the surface. Every episode, every MOS, every soldier — , no excuses. From cannon crewmembers to cyber specialists, medics to mechanics, we’re sitting down with the people who keep the mission moving — one story at a time. Whether they joined straight out...

17: Insights from a New Army Guard Officer and His Mentor 13.09.2024

 In this episode, we sit down with a newly commissioned Second Lieutenant from Seton Hall ROTC as he embarks on his journey as a young officer in the U.S. Army National Guard in Field Artillery. Joining him is his Assistant Professor of Military Science, CPT Hunter, a seasoned officer currently serving in the National Guard with tons of experience in the civilian world as a police officer and in u...

Dynamic Duo: Twins Balancing Guard, Nursing School, ROTC and Business 15.06.2024

Welcome back to the Guard2Guard Podcast! In this special episode, we're thrilled to feature an extraordinary duo—THE LOZA TWINS (Madison and Brooke) who are redefining what it means to serve and succeed. These remarkable women are not only dedicated members of the Army National Guard and proud recipients of the prestigious Minuteman Scholarship, but they are also standout nursing students at...

15: From Recruit to Leader: Inside the World of a National Guard Drill Sergeant 07.06.2024

Join us as we interview Drill Sergeant Robinson  for a unfiltered conversation as we dive into the world of the Army National Guard with  a seasoned drill sergeant. In this episode, we explore the journey from recruit to drill sergeant, uncovering the challenges, triumphs, and unique experiences that come with this demanding role. Discover what it takes to train and mentor new recruits, the daily...

14: Making #HERstory with SFC Cat 15.03.2024

Happy Women's History Month: This episode is not just about the battles fought on foreign soils but also about the internal battles against prejudice, stereotypes, and the fight for equality within the ranks. SFC Cat's story is a testament to the courage and resilience of women who dare to step into roles long deemed off-limits. Her achievements have not only earned her medals and commen...

13:What happens at MEPS? (featuring SSG Hyman) 08.03.2024

From the anxious moments of early morning to the decisive steps of the oath of enlistment, "this episode unravels the real steps that define this life-changing experience. Witness firsthand the challenges faced during medical examinations, the intense anticipation of aptitude tests, and the shared camaraderie that emerges when individuals from all walks of life come together with a common goa...

12: How To Use Your VA Home Loan with Oscar Sime 23.02.2024

In this enlightening episode, Oscar breaks down the VA Home Loan process, starting from the basics of eligibility to the intricacies of securing the best rates and navigating the housing market as a veteran. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance your home, Oscar shares invaluable insights and tips to maximize your benefits. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understan...

11: From obesity to Air Assault, Mountain Warfare and Senior Gunner with SSG Mohammed Masood 05.02.2024

Real take on diversity and a deep dive into the heart of military excellence with SSG Mohammed Masood on Battle-Tested: Schools & Skills. Explore the rigorous training and elite skills honed at Army schools like Air Assault, Mountain Warfare, and Senior Gunner. Join us on the frontline of knowledge, where courage meets capability. Thank you for listening! Nominate the next guest here! (Name &a...

10: Did You Know? Exploring the benefits of Army National Guard with SFC Larobina 27.01.2024

We are making a new series of the podcast called "Did You Know?",  where we will talk about many subjects but TODAY we delve into the multifaceted world of the Army National Guard with the help of a special guest, Sergeant First Class (SFC) Larobina. With years of experience and a wealth of knowledge, SFC Larobina helps us unravel the unique features and benefits that the Army National G...

9: The Dual Life as Miss California USA 2023 and Army National Guard Soldier 12.01.2024

In this captivating podcast episode, we have a phone call with the remarkable SGT Tiana Clark, Miss California USA 2023. Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey of balancing two distinct worlds – being a successful model and a dedicated soldier serving in the California Army National Guard. SGT Clark shares insights into the challenges she faces, the unique experiences she's encountere...

8: Meet a Female Infantry Soldier in OSUT 22.12.2023

It has been 5 years since the ban on women in combat was lifted in 2015 and women began integrating previously closed combat arms billets in January 2016. Join us as we dig deep with PFC Mullin, a soldier in Infantry OSUT at Fort Moore, Georgia.  The Army National Guard (ARNG) requires at least one female leader in the same career field and one female leader in any career field at the company leve...

07: Becoming a U.S Army Ranger in the National Guard 15.12.2023

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the journey of Jeff Staudt, a dedicated member of the New Jersey National Guard who graduated from one of the military's toughest training schools. Despite facing adversity and undergoing collar bone surgery, Jeff enlisted as an 11B Infantry and set his sights on an extraordinary challenge – U.S Army Ranger School. He helps us uncover the physical and m...

06: Advice from an Infantry Officer 10.12.2023

32 minutes of wisdom from 23 years of service with CPT Hardin!  Explore the multifaceted journey of a military leader, academic professor, and father in this podcast. Join us as we delve into pivotal moments shaping leadership philosophy, the delicate balance of military and academia, and lessons from Iraq applied to life. Discover insights into fostering teamwork, the influence of fatherhood on l...

05: Becoming a National Guard Recruiter 24.11.2023

A quick debrief on ARNG SQI4 aka Recruiting school & a conversation about the Army National Guard Recruiting Journey! Whether you're considering a career in the Army National Guard or simply intrigued by the stories of those who bridge the gap between civilian and military life, this episode offers a unique perspective. Join us for a cool conversation that unveils the untold stories of tw...

04: From Private to Warrant Officer: A Journey of Leadership with CW3 Jardinico 13.10.2023

In this episode, we explore the steps to becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army National Guard, following the inspiring story of one warrant officer and delving into the motivating factors that led them to join this elite group of military leaders. Thank you for listening please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guard2guardpodcast Our Guests' Warrant O...

03: Go Hard Go Guard with @sgtknucklehead 29.09.2023

Through humor, compassion, and a genuine love for his community, SSG Jacoby has become a beacon of hope for many. He uses his platforms with over 1+ million followers to not only to humanize the uniform but also to shine a positive light on the National Guard. Growing up against all odds, SSG Jacoby  faced adversity and challenges that could have easily deterred him from his dreams. Instead, he ov...

02: Special Guest Interview with @Butterworthdasyrup 22.09.2023

Step into the world of the Army National Guard like you've never seen it before with SFC Butterworth, the military's very own social media sensation! If you've ever wondered what it's like to serve your country while still keeping your sense of humor intact, this podcast is your backstage pass to the lighter side of duty. SFC Butterworth is not your typical soldier. Through hil...

01: Meet your Host & Co-Host! 17.09.2023

Welcome! This isn't your average  podcast. We provide an unfiltered look into the army national guard lifestyle, health, fitness,  and human optimization through the perspectives of the world's most incredible individuals (our guests). These are powerful, deep conversations designed to educate, inspire, and challenge you to unlock your full potential.  Please rate and review the podcast...

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