S.O.S. (Stories of Service) - Ordinary people who do extraordinary work

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this powerful episode, we follow Sgt. Andrew “Andy” Lindstrom — a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Nevada National Guardsman — as he takes on the military establishment in a courageous solo legal battle. After reporting military sexual trauma (MST) and financial misconduct within the Nevada National Guard, Lindstrom faced har...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better!  This week, we're joined by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Robin "Phoenix" Johnson—combat veteran, international comedian, and leadership expert. With 20+ years in the U.S. Army and five combat deployments, Robin now uses humor to inspire and lead across the globe. From Armed Forces Entertainment to Stanford classrooms, she shares h...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this powerful episode, we sit down with T.Shane Johnson—U.S. Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and best-selling author. T.Shane opens up about his extraordinary journey from surviving a brutal gang attack and homelessness to building a successful business empire and making a national impact. What You’ll Le...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! This week’s guest is Randall Surles—a retired Sergeant Major with over 40 years of experience bridging elite military service and the literary world. From leading missions as an infantryman in the 75th Ranger Regiment and a Green Beret, to crafting bestselling books as a Story Grid Certified Editor, Randy’s journey is nothing short...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we sit down with Captain Gervy Alota, a decorated Surface Warfare Officer, Naval Academy graduate, and proud son of a Navy Chief. He shares his journey from playing Navy football to commanding multiple amphibious warships and pioneering the Navy’s first LCS Mine Countermeasures Mission Package Detachment. With over...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! Why is military transition so difficult? Kerron Andrews captures it perfectly: “It’s the loss of our entire identity.” For so many of us, the military isn’t just a job—it’s our foundation, our purpose, and at times, the only constant we’ve had. Even when we felt alone, even when we doubted ourselves, service gave us a sense of belon...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! There’s nothing better than connecting with fellow active duty content creators—especially when they’re active duty senior naval officers! When Andrew first reached out months ago asking how to “do both”—serve our country and show up authentically on social media—I knew he was onto something powerful. Since then, it’s been amazing t...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! 🎙️ New Episode Drop! Restoring Military Justice: Inside Nevada Senate Bill 95 ⚖️🇺🇸 Should National Guard members have the right to demand a court martial instead of facing non-judicial punishment? Nevada lawmakers think so — and we’re diving into why. 💥 Highlights: ✔️ Allison Bailey’s case & the push for due process ✔️ Zero fis...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! What better people to shape policy than those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to serve their nation?  In this episode, we discuss the critical nature veterans can play within the political arena- think politics is not for you? You may change your mind after this episode!!! Jason Loughran is a United States Navy veteran and a de...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! The wounds of war must never be forgotten—but for many, that pain becomes a driving force for something greater. This Tuesday, I welcome back returning guest Michael Meyers, II, who joins us to discuss an ambitious new filmmaking project with Nicole Amelio. We also welcome Robert Vincent O’Berg whose own story of hope and healing is...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, Jean Payne, a Navy vet and MST survivor, shares her journey of empowerment. As CEO of TI Verbatim Consulting, she advocates for systemic change, including VA House Bill 2520. Jean is also the author of Reclaim Your Worth and Jean and the Magnificent Mirror , promoting self-worth and justice.  🔹 Tune in to hear: ✔️...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we sit down with Mark C. Fava, an author, speaker, and career aviation lawyer who currently serves as a Vice President at The Boeing Company. Mark’s career spans decades in both the military and corporate worlds. He served as a Naval Flight Officer and Mission Commander in the P-3 Orion, accumulating over 3,000 flig...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! When two fellow military podcasters get together, ones who are both deeply passionate in fighting the mental health stigma by taking better care of Sailors, well you know it’s going to be a great conversation! Ladies and gentleman, is my honor to bring you the man behind the Don’t Give Up the Ship podcast! In this episode, we sit do...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! Is there a link between brain injury and suicide or other mental health challenges? Could mandatory MRI scans help identify those at risk? In this episode of the S.O.S. Podcast, Dr. Kenneth Davis discusses his research on large-scale brain injury testing for veterans, especially those with non-combat-related injuries. We explore wha...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! Can we hold starkly different views on hard-hitting issues while staying respectful? I believe so—and my guests do too. This week, we tackle the controversy surrounding the dismissal of the Judge Advocate Generals from the Air Force, Army, and Navy. Is this a dangerous move to install Trump loyalists, or a much-needed reform of mili...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! Oak McCulloch returns to the podcast for another discussion on servant leadership and its lasting impact. His ability to drive change continues to inspire, and his book Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be remains a valuable resource. In this episode, we catch up on Oak’s journey, the impact of his leader...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we chat with Richard Parker, a former college professor who became a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Commissioned at 43 in 2013, he left academia to serve and embraced every chance to support the Navy's global mission.  Richard’s toughest battle wasn’t on the frontlines—it was for his life. In...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! I’m beyond thrilled to welcome Sam Shoemate to the show—one of the most fearless voices in military whistleblowing today. If you believe in due process for those who’ve sacrificed for our nation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss! You may remember Sam from The Shawn Ryan Show this past January—one of the many who receive...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! Are you buying or selling a home in Central Ohio? If so, you need a trusted expert who understands the market inside and out. Karen Mavis, owner of the Karen Mavis Home Team with RE/MAX Achievers, joins us to talk about what makes a great real estate experience and how she’s helped clients navigate the process for over 22 years. Not...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! This is a show I wish I didn’t have to do. But the truth is, the command investigation system is broken, and if no one else will fix it, we’re going to shine a light on the harm it causes—directly from those who have lived it. It’s our love for the military that compels us to speak up. We believe in accountability, justice, and taki...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we sit down with Amber Kulesza, an Air Force Disabled Veteran and the Chief Adventure Officer (CAO) of AmbersAdventures, LLC. Amber’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and an unwavering passion for helping others. In this episode, you'll learn about: Military Career : Amber’s diverse roles, including...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we chat with Rebecca McFadden, a creative force and founder of Fresh Pointe Studio, about her journey from sketching animals as a child to becoming a successful designer. She shares her path through art, fashion design, and interior design, including her experiences in NYC, corporate roles, and how motherhood and th...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we chat with Andrea Goldstein, a senior executive and national security leader, whose career spans from active-duty U.S. Navy officer to shaping policy at the highest levels of government. Andrea has driven cultural transformation in major U.S. institutions, including her pivotal role in passing the Deborah Sampson...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Major Mandy Feindt, an active-duty Army officer, devoted mother, and fearless advocate for military and civilian families affected by the 2021 Red Hill Water Crisis in Hawaii. As one of 93,000 individuals impacted by the crisis—including her own children—Major Feindt has ded...

Let us know what you think of the show and what we can do better! In this episode, we sit down with Brad Miller, a former lieutenant colonel in the United States Army, to discuss his inspiring journey of service, principles, and standing up for his beliefs. Brad graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2003 and went on to serve nineteen years on active duty. His career to...