Permission To Speak Freely

This wasn't supposed to become an episode.

A guest canceled at the last minute, but the guys were already rolling.

Figured they'd talk for a few minutes before packing everything up.

Somehow that turned into conversations about Chief Initiation, being "just an E7," Christopher Nolan, LeBron, podcast chemistry, PFB, and a whole lot more.

It wasn't planned.

It wasn't polished.

It just felt too good to delete.

The crew is joined by returning guest 2K Kenny, who is back nearly two years after his first appearance on Episode 136. With Damon away, Damo, Aaron, and Kenny begin by discussing the cost of CMC initiation events, “integrity counting” during the PRT, and the technical difference between a Sailor’s rate, rating, and paygrade. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging people, lessons from suicide-intervention training, and why something as simple as saying hello can carry more weight than we realize. The crew then catches up on everything Kenny has accomplished since his first appearance. He discusses making second...

One of the biggest Navy policy changes of the year is here, and we're breaking it all down. This week, we discuss NAVADMIN 140/26 and NAVADMIN 162/26, covering the Navy's updated guidance on religious accommodations, grooming standards, and facial hair policy. Joining us is retired Navy Captain Dr. John Cordle, who explains what Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB) is, how it's commonly treated, who it affects, and what these changes could mean for Sailors and the Fleet. We also discuss barracks and BAH challenges for first-term Sailors, Congress looking into the hard fouls on Caitlin Clark, Reserve Chief selection results, truth in reporting...

**Listener Discretion** This episode contains discussions about suicide, mental health, prostitution, pornography, trauma, and religious faith that may be difficult for some listeners.

This week, the guys sit down with Army veteran and author Devin Fish, whose memoir, Answering the Hard Questions, takes readers through a life marked by poverty, constant change, broken relationships, self-hatred, and ultimately, redemption. Devin opens up about growing up in Rockford, Illinois, moving from school to school, joining the Army to escape his circumstances, and the experiences that forced him to confront some of the darkest moments of his life. T...

We were definitely UA last week, and we're sorry about that. This week, the guys are back—minus Damon—but joined by NCC Quintavious Nelson (aka Que Nels) to catch up on everything that's happened across the Navy over the past few weeks.

Damo kicks things off with his latest gripe: having to shave every single day. The conversation quickly shifts into the time Que got the pod in trouble around Christmas, which naturally leads into a discussion about his relationship with social media and life as an influencer.

The crew shares...

Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by LCDR Jeff “Migs” Migdal. Jeff is a Cryptologic Warfare Officer, prior-enlisted Sailor, and longtime commissioning mentor who has helped countless Sailors navigate the path from enlisted service to the officer ranks. The conversation begins with Jeff sharing his journey from joining the Navy as an undesignated Airman to eventually earning a commission after multiple application attempts. He discusses the lessons he learned along the way, including how setbacks, preparation, and persistence shaped his career. The group explores common misconceptions about officer programs and why being eligible does not necessarily make someone competitive. Jeff...

Damon is out this week, but the show rolls on as Damo, Aaron, and CS1 Burns sit down for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from Navy policy changes and leadership lessons to deployment experiences, career growth, and why Seafood Newburg somehow became part of the discussion. We discuss LTB reviews, Master Chief pay, recruiting concerns surrounding Genesis, the Murph, the new UFC event fitness requirements, PRT alternate cardio, bad day chits, the CNO's recent email on grooming standards, the absence of women selected for Admiral, the relief of an entire triad in Japan, the Warrior Toughness rollout, and changes...

The guys are back with no guest and plenty to discuss. Damo recaps his recent trip and shares a few new Navy terms he picked up along the way before the conversation shifts to television, film, social media, and the impact online culture is having on military leadership. They discuss Black cinema, mental health resources, Warrior Toughness, Human Performance Optimization, E-8 and E-9 results, Memorial Day plans, and the latest developments in Admiral Robert Burke’s bribery case. The episode also features a Do Better segment, Picks of the Week, and listener questions covering disconnected leadership, driving change within or...

This episode of Permission to Speak Freely Podcast is dedicated to retired Command Master Chief Shay Robbie Farnsworth. Her influence helped shape careers, strengthen Sailors, and remind people what real leadership looks like. She poured into others, stayed connected long after transferring, and remained someone whose guidance and support never stopped mattering. We honor her life, legacy, service, and the countless people she impacted throughout her career and beyond.

Fair winds and following seas, Command Master Chief Farnsworth.

No guest pod. Let’s go.

Damo starts with smoke for Tyra, Aaron, and Damon (ki...

Retired NCCS Nikki Lozano joins the guys for one of the most personal and powerful conversations the podcast has ever had. Nikki reflects on her early days as a Personnelman (PN), the differences between the early 2000s Navy and today’s Navy, and what it was like to be one of the first women assigned to an all-male ship. Before the Navy, she opens up about growing up in Utah in a trailer park, navigating an abusive household, the complicated lessons she learned from her father, and the mindset that ultimately pushed her toward military service. The conversation moves th...

Command Master Chief Aquinor “Kedia” Hollingsworth is back! This time, she and MC1 Tyra Watson lead an episode with Command Master Chiefs Jacelyne “Jay” Augustin and Stephanie “Cocoa” Canteen, guiding a conversation centered on leadership, personal growth, and the realities that come with carrying responsibility at the highest enlisted level. The episode opens with a discussion on leadership identity and the expectations that come with the role, including the pressure to consistently show up, maintain standards, and lead in environments where perception, respect, and credibility are constantly being evaluated. From there, the conversation moves into the balance between authority and approach...

Damo, Damon, and Aaron are joined by Commander Desmond Walker and Commander Frank “Siri” Bonner for a conversation that moves from everyday Navy life into deeper discussions on leadership, pressure, and personal growth. The episode opens with a light debate before the group gets into real-world leadership challenges, including communication breakdowns around a last-minute barracks town hall and the expectations that come with coordinating across commands. That conversation leads into a broader discussion on standards and perception, sparked by a viral photo that had the Navy talking. From there, Commander Walker reflects on his recent deployment, sharing insight on crew...

Capt. Charles R. Harmon, Branch Head of Enlisted Plans and Policy (OPNAV N132), joins the Permission to Speak Freely Podcast for a conversation on SEM, billet-based advancement, and what Sailors are experiencing across the fleet.

The discussion moves through how the system is designed to work, where confusion is coming from, and how decisions are being made at the command and detailer level. Questions from the fleet drive the conversation, touching on ETPs, marketplace dynamics, command involvement, and the gap between policy and understanding.

When Capt. Harmon leaves, Career Counselor Chief Jo...

Retired Navy Captain and author of Letters to Myself, John Cordle joins the show to talk through leadership, experience, and the perspective behind his book.

Damo sits down one-on-one with Cordle, a former Commanding Officer and long-time surface warfare officer, to get into the lessons that come from time in the Navy, the realities of decision-making, and how those experiences shaped what he chose to put on paper. The conversation moves through leadership at different levels, how mindset shifts over time, and the challenge of turning real-world experience into something others can learn from. They a...

About our Guest:

Master Chief Green was born in Westerly, RI, and raised in Woodbine, GA. He graduated from Camden County High School in 2004. He entered the Navy through the Delayed Entry Program in March 2006 as a Culinary Specialist. He is a graduate of the United States Senior Enlisted Academy, Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat course. Master Chief’s sea duty assignments include USS Annapolis (SSN 760), USS Virginia (SSN 774), USS Greeneville (SSN 772). In October 2022, he reported to USS Hampton (SSN 767) as Chief of the Boat. During that COB tour, he completed a Western Pacific Deployment, tw...

This Reflash is a double feature.

Two conversations brought back together in one episode, centered on accountability, perception, and how Sailors navigate the system. Featuring ABCM (Ret.) Alquin Parker, the discussion takes a deep dive into the CPO selection board process and the decisions that shape a career.

From how board members are selected to what should be included in your package, the conversation breaks down the process in a way that’s direct and practical. The team also explores what really matters when preparing for advancement. Sustained superior performance versus early promote, the role of...

Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by AZ2 Makel Jackson, a listener-turned-guest and active duty Navy Aviation Maintenance Administrator. The episode kicks off with Damo discussing question submissions for an upcoming episode, board eligible results, a discussion on Maintenance Master Chiefs, and military vs. civilian education. The hosts then dive into Makel’s background, tracing his journey from the south side of Chicago to Houston and ultimately to the Navy. They debate pizza, discuss what drew him to enlist, and break down his boot camp and A School experiences. The conversation turns to his biggest misconception about the fleet, hi...

About our Guest:
Master Chief Hollingsworth, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, enlisted in the United States Navy on 27 October 1998 after graduating from Alcee Fortier High School in 1998. She attended Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois, and completed Cryptologic Technician Communications training in Pensacola, Florida. After seven years as a Cryptologic Technician Communications, she converted to Information Systems Technician in 2005. Her sea duty assignments include COMSEVENTHFLT permanently embarked aboard USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19), USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), and USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77). Her shore assignments include NSGA Pensacola, NSGA Misawa, Commander Task Force 72 (two tours...

No Aaron. No guest. No worries. Damon and Damo were built for an impromptu episode. LOL. Damo starts by reflecting on an event he held with a small group of Sailors at his command. Somehow, that leads to a conversation about restricted barracks. Are those even still a thing? Damo has been working toward another qualification and is getting closer to finally being able to go out on funerals. Damon gets a little deeper this episode and reflects on a recent trip to the hospital. He’s also been dealing with health issues with his dog, and the conversation tu...

Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by CDR Charles Ferguson. CDR Ferguson is an active duty Navy Chaplain and the author of the book Presidential Seclusion. The episode begins with the hosts sharing their thoughts about recording the podcast during Operation Epic Fury. They discuss how the conflict could affect their respective jobs even though they are not currently stationed on ships, and reflect on where they were when they first heard the news. The team also takes time to honor the lost and missing servicemembers, recognizing them as this episode’s Heroes of the Week. Damon stresses the im...

Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by NC1 Alex Sewell. Damo opens with smoke for Aaron over the lack of coverage on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson before the guys take a moment to honor his legacy and impact. They also give flowers to retired CSCM William Foster for the run of the “Don’t Give Up The Ship” podcast as he transitions the platform to Chief Ariana LaChuisa. The conversation shifts to communication flow and how newly announced information is being pushed out. Aaron doubles back on “FCPO Package Rodeos,” and Alex reflects on crossrating from Naval Aircrewman...

The episode opens with a lighthearted conversation about Valentine’s Day plans before shifting to the Super Bowl, which, despite best efforts, felt underwhelming. The commercials did not deliver either, but the halftime show definitely sparked discussion. With J. Cole releasing his long-anticipated retirement album The Fall Off, there was no avoiding a conversation about what this moment means in hip-hop. The discussion moves to comedy, including a review of Katt Williams’ latest special, and a reflection on being grateful that 2026 is not starting as turbulent as it has for Corey Holcomb. A recent trip to San Diego for a wo...

Coming off of a major winter storm on the East Coast, Damon and Damo get a bit nostalgic. Enjoy. 

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PTSF Theme Music: Produced by Lim0

Joined by Madison Farr, Damon and Damo sit down for a wide-ranging conversation on accountability, leadership, and the lasting effects of how Sailors are treated after mistakes. The episode opens with a brief check-in and an apology for a previous error before Madison shares her experiences in the Navy, including two separate Masts and a tragic incident that shaped how she viewed discipline, leadership, and her own career. The discussion covers fraternization, issues with her LPO, and the idea of not letting getting in trouble define you, along with what accountability should look like after NJP. Damon, Damo, and...

About our Guest:

Frank Rice Jr. is an award-winning filmmaker, director, and founder of FJR Films, blending over two decades of military leadership with cinematic artistry. A U.S. Navy veteran and Tyler Perry Dreamers Collective Top 100 Finalist, Frank has collaborated with a range of production companies and creative teams across the U.S. and Japan to produce emotionally resonant and visually striking work. His short films, The Tunnel, Quietus of Man, and Juncture, have garnered multiple international festival awards for their depth, storytelling, and craft. His latest project, JUMPER, (post-production) is an emotionally charged psychological film...

***PLEASE READ** **CORRECTIONS**

Correction 1: “Weight measurements are required for ALL SAILORS regardless of Step-1 outcome.” - From PRP Guide-4. (Dec 2025)

Correction 2: “Waist measurements are to be measured at the umbilicus (belly button) from the right side of the body, keeping the tape parallel to the deck.” - From PRP Guide-4. (Dec 2025)

Troy Johnson pulled up to check the temperature after Aaron’s comments about ATG. Aaron was around so the guys were able to get into a bunch of things. Why would we not open an episode out primary about fitness with recoll...

Joined by Marc Tinaz, retired Limited Duty Officer Commander, the guys sit down for a wide-ranging conversation shaped by 33 years of Navy service and leadership across multiple eras. Marc reflects on how often the Navy has changed during his career, from uniforms and culture to expectations placed on leaders. The discussion explores the stressors of the retirement process, how senior leaders cope with bad news, and what it means to understand your role as a Command Master Chief fully. Throughout the episode, New Year’s resolutions surface naturally as the conversation touches on the value of awards, fairness versus le...

Happy New Year to all of our viewers, listeners, and supporters.

The guys start the year off joined by April Beldo-Lilley, retired Fleet Master Chief of the U.S. Navy. April discusses her transition from uniformed service, her early upbringing, and the influence of her father. She discusses her decision to join the Navy, her early years in uniform, and key moments that shaped her career, including becoming Chief and realizing that the Navy would become a long-term profession. She reflects on serving as a Command Master Chief, including challenging moments, and offers the guys p...

We had to pull up on y’all this Christmas, but please don’t call this a Christmas special. Damo finds himself in yet another sticky situation, this time it’s with Aaron. Before the results came out, the quotas were released, leaving many Sailors pissed about the low numbers. The guys discuss the disgust and what Billet-Based Advancement has to do with all of this. The Navy recently announced “The Trump Class,” complete with rail guns and laser beams. President Trump was feeling generous this holiday season and gave us two days off and “warrior dividends.” Oh yeah, what the hell...

Damon and Aaron are joined by OSC Kenneth Batchler for a conversation centered on his firsthand experience aboard the USS John S. McCain during the 2017 collision. Ken walks through the environment leading up to the incident, including operational tempo, fatigue, and the conditions present in the hours before the collision. The discussion covers what the moment of impact felt like from the deckplate, the immediate emotional response onboard, and how training and watchstanding took over once it became clear this was not a drill. Ken explains the purpose of General Quarters training, what was first heard over the 1MC...

Aye, no long talk! Just check out this bonus episode. We love y'all and appreciate your continued support.

Music featured:
“Gotta Do It” by Big K.R.I.T.
Courtesy of Big K.R.I.T. / Multi Alumni / EMPIRE
All rights belong to the original artist.

The crew returns from the holiday break with a full plate of stories, starting with Thanksgiving hangovers and Aaron’s crockpot rebuttal that finally closes the loop from the last episode. The team moves into this week’s Do Better, covering everything from the need for a computer access POAM for CMCs to Damon’s latest run-in with the high-school system. They break down a recent article on the USS Truman and the importance of realistic observations in after-action reports before Damo steps in to double down on the FaceTime conversation. The guys discuss what it is, what it isn’t...

Fresh off Thanksgiving, the episode opens with a full holiday recap as Country Living releases its Top 10 Thanksgiving foods list. The team compares those dishes to what actually hit the table this year, talks about holiday routines, family visits, and what everyone watched over the break. The conversation expands into Thanksgiving vs. Christmas, holiday phone etiquette, and moments from the past year in the Navy that inspired gratitude. The hosts also share their “Win for the Week.” The episode transitions into major headlines: an Airman indicted for plotting to take over an island in Haiti and enslave its population, a Fo...

Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by AOCM (Ret.) Tyese ‘Ty’ Pressley, founder of the ‘Goat Locker Hall of Fame’ and ‘At Ease Podcast.’ The conversation starts with a follow-up to a listener regarding “elevating problems.” After Ty breaks down his history of assignments, the guys don’t hesitate to get into Ty’s organization, the ‘Goat Locker Hall of Fame,’ and some of the drama that has surrounded it as it gets more popular. Ty discusses the early days of the GLHOF and his inspiration behind the idea. What has been done to make the GLHOF a legitimate organization, and is the...

The guys open by clearing up a discrepancy from the last show before getting into the recent Brooks Brothers cancellation and catching up on what’s been happening in their lives. They recognize the Marine Corps Birthday, welcome back a government employee returning after the shutdown, and show love for Damon’s birthday. The conversation shifts into how people battle personal demons and what leaders often miss when they only look at the surface. The team discusses whether commands should “roll out the red carpet” for inspectors and what people misunderstand about what a Command Master Chief actually does. Damo sta...

The crew is back and covering everything from government shutdown rumors to backlash about the bump serum. Damo gives his two-week review of Charles Johnson’s “The Bump Serum,” and the team unveils their “Don’t Come to the All Hands” lists. The hosts catch up on life since the last episode and recognize Veterans Day before diving into the latest news on USS Nimitz and the questions surrounding extended deployments—including whether Sailors should get liberty back after standing holiday duty. They discuss the sudden retirement of another 3-Star General, the rumor that 168 commissaries may be closing, and Damo introduce...

As I was prepping these episode notes, I got a call about a matter concerning my Sailors that I needed to address. With that said, enjoy these ChatGPT-generated notes and enjoy this episode. You'll see very early in the episode that we put our hearts into it.

- Damo

Episode Description:

This episode kicks off with weather talk and Halloween banter before shifting into reflection as Damo asks, “When’s the last time you were let down?” The conversation evolves into leadership mode as he introduces The Vibe Check—a new way...

This episode starts with the epitome of locker room talk, as Damo questions whether his latest decision at the gym means he’s getting old. Damon recaps his experience listening to Episode 163, and the guys catch up on their weeks. Admiral Alvin Holsey recently announced his retirement in a story that swept across military social media circles. A recent dispute between Marc Lamont Hill and Queenzflip of the Joe Budden Podcast leads to a conversation about who “should” and “shouldn’t” be in certain spaces. Damo responds to a comment regarding understanding our roles as leaders, which morphs into a discussion...

About Our Guest — Courtney A. Barber

Courtney A. Barber is a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, motivational speaker, three-time published author, and certified life purpose coach with over 25 years of military leadership experience. A Fayetteville, North Carolina native, Courtney is the founder of Sapphire Veteran HR, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women veterans in Hampton Roads transition from service to civilian life with confidence and community.

After a decorated Navy career, Courtney transformed her journey of adversity, faith, and resilience into a personal mission to empower others through her bra...

Damon and Damo catch up as Damon highlights his first week as a CMC. Damo had to shave his mustache and did not like it one bit. The guys discuss the impact of the current furlough on servicemembers and civilian teammates, along with available resources for anyone in need. Diddy was sentenced to four years in prison after a guilty verdict in a prostitution case, and Damon makes a plea against political violence and mass shootings. Earlier this week, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and President Trump called top military generals and admirals to Quantico for a brief, summit...