Unarmored Talk
Welcome to the Unarmored Talk Podcast with Sergeant Major (Ret.) Mario P. Fields! Join the host and guests for candid conversations where emotional barriers are left at the door. In this unfiltered and intimate setting, guests and viewers alike engage in open dialogue, sharing personal stories, thoughts, and feelings without reservation. From touching personal stories to profound introspection, each episode promises genuine connection and authentic exchange. Tune in as we explore the raw and real, forging bonds through vulnerability. It's time to strip away the armor and embrace the power of honest conversations where authenticity reigns supreme.
Why Walking Away Isn’t the Same as Giving Up - Sean Frost
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What does it mean to leave a legacy?
For Ottawa entrepreneur Sean Frost, it starts with refusing to compromise on passion. From music producer to real estate broker, Sean's journey was anything but linear. Despite early success in a contracting business, he battled depression until he returned to his creative roots.
Sean shares his unique view on failure: “Failure only happens when you give up.” He urges listeners to see pivots not as defeats, but as necessary steps toward alignment and growth.
Now thriving in multi...
Beyond Talent: A Father, A Son, and an Unbreakable Legacy
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In this heartfelt Unarmored Talk Podcast episode, we explore the inspiring story of Lance Jones, son of Eric Jones, whose unwavering work ethic and passion for basketball set him apart.
Under the guidance of his father—his coach and mentor—Lance pushed beyond natural limitations, proving that relentless dedication and discipline could outshine raw talent. Their bond extended beyond sports, shaping a philosophy of perseverance that applied to all aspects of life.
However, tragedy struck when Lance’s promising future was cut short in a devastating car accident while he was i...
How My Guest Found Meaning and Purpose After Military Service
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In this episode of Unarmored Talk, we explore the profound challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, including the identity crises that often accompany it. Marine Corps Veteran Garret Biss shares his powerful story of confronting mental health struggles and highlights the transformative role of authenticity in the healing process.
Key takeaways include:
The impact of identity loss after military servicePersonal insights into anxiety and mental health challengesHow authenticity can help veterans rediscover purposeThe complex nature of military identity and its dualitiesGuest Links:
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Mario & Nicole’s Holiday Reflections - UNARMORED
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As this year draws to a close, I had the privilege of sitting down with my incredible wife, Nicole, to record a very special episode of Unarmored Talk.
This one is different—it’s unstructured, raw, and straight from the heart. We share stories from the early days of our relationship, including the unforgettable moment we first met and our initial impressions of each other. We also reflect on the journey that has brought us to an incredible milestone: our upcoming 30th wedding anniversary.
Check it out and let us k...
Are You Living Intentionally or Just Going Through the Motions?
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Curiosity drives self-discovery and growth, helping us align our choices with our authentic selves. In Cynthia Schwartzberg's updated book, "The Curious Voyage to Authenticity," she shares how curiosity fosters intentional living, exploring:
*Evaluating life choices
*Bridging the gap between intentions and actions
*Building healthy coping mechanisms
*Journaling for self-reflection
*Simple practices to spark curiosity
Cynthia's Website: https://cynthasis.com/
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From Sergeant Major to Entrepreneur: The Bar Book Mobile App
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What if exploring alcoholic beverages was as personalized and effortless as streaming music?
Meet Mike Waskewich Jr., a retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major turned entrepreneur, who, alongside his wife, created the Bar Book mobile app. In this episode of Unarmored Talk Podcast, Mike shares their journey from military service to launching an app that uses flavor-matching technology to recommend personalized cocktails, beers, and spirits.
Explore the challenges and rewards of transitioning to civilian entrepreneurship, the camaraderie among veterans in the alcohol industry, and the power of networking and...
Surviving Sibling Loss: Grieving an Army Medic Brother Lost in Combat
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In this episode of Unarmored Talk Podcast, Dr. Dawn DiRaimondo, a Clinical Psychologist, shares her journey through sibling loss after her brother Michael, an Army flight medic, was killed in Iraq.
Together, we explore the often-overlooked grief of surviving siblings, who are frequently overshadowed by society's focus on parental loss. Dawn reflects on how this experience reshaped her career and her insights as a therapist, as detailed in her book, Surviving Sibling Loss: The Invisible Thread that Connects Us Through Life and Death. Through personal stories and expert insights, this episode...
Embracing Neurodiversity as a Strength
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Traci Neal’s story is one of resilience and triumph. She's an inspiring author and professional Christian poet who opens up about her journey of embracing autism and ADHD as unique strengths rather than obstacles.
Escaping societal expectations, Traci pursued her passion for poetry, a love instilled by her mother, and transformed her life with newfound clarity after her diagnosis.
Discover how she harnessed her high energy and neurodivergence into a powerful force for creativity and success, earning recognition in the New York Times. Traci's insights into the advantages of...
🎉 4 Years of Unarmored Talk Podcast! 🎉
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🎉 4 Years of Unarmored Talk Podcast! 🎉
Nicole and I are beyond grateful for your support over the past four years. With 130+ episodes, 12,000 downloads across 49 countries/territories and 762 cities, and 112,000 YouTube views with 7,600 watch hours, the journey has been incredible!
This year, expect fresh content, new guests, and a twist—some of them will even be interviewing me! As we celebrate personal milestones (I’m turning 50 and we will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary in 2025), we’re excited to keep bringing you real, 'unarmored' discussions. Stay tuned!
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Marine Veteran Battles Cancer with Wife
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What if life’s toughest challenges could be transformed into hope and inspiration?
Meet James and Jess Ash, a resilient couple who embody strength and compassion. James, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, channels his upbringing into empowering others through self-defense, while Jess, a physician assistant and adventurer, takes on physical challenges to better understand her patients. Together, they created the Unbroken from the Ashes podcast, blending their love for adventure with a commitment to making a positive impact.
When James was diagnosed with cancer, they faced the news wi...
Colonel (Ret.) Mark Shuster’s Journey Through Post-Military Struggles
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What happens when a distinguished Marine Corps Colonel transitions to civilian life?
In this episode of the Unarmored Talk Podcast, retired Marine Corps Colonel Mark Shuster shares his journey from a 33-year military career to civilian life. He discusses the emotional and financial challenges of this transition and the importance of handling obstacles with composure.
Mark also explores the often-overlooked struggles veterans face, such as identity loss and depression, comparing past and present support systems. With practical advice on reading, networking, and building a personal support network...
When the Decision Comes: Choosing Between Military Duty and Family
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How do you choose between a remarkable military career and putting family first?
Keyth Pankau, a retired U.S. Coast Guard officer, shares his journey from serving in Fallujah with the Navy Seabees to leading humanitarian missions after Hurricane Katrina. Despite a passion for disaster response and crisis management, Keyth’s most defining moment came when he prioritized his daughter’s future over his career.
In this Unarmored Talk podcast episode, Keyth reflects on the emotional challenges of this decision and the lessons he learned about leadership, sacrifice, and iden...
From Troubled Marine to Motivational Speaker
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🤔Can Mindset Truly Transform a Life?
Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Demetrius Thigpen, also known as Meech Speaks—a Marine Corps Staff Sergeant, acclaimed motivational speaker, and the host of the Talkin' Crazy Podcast.
Demetrius's journey is a powerful testament to resilience, change, and the influence of effective leadership. In this episode, he candidly shares his evolution from being labeled a "shitbag Marine" to becoming a top-tier performer. His story offers profound insights into how a mindset shift can completely redefine one’s life path.
From Classroom to 2024 District Court Judge Candidate
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What happens when a ninth-grade civics teacher decides to switch careers and becomes an attorney, CPA, or campaigns for an appointment to district court judge?
Attorney and CPA Kimberly A. Herrick gives us a backstage pass into her dynamic career and journey as a Cabarrus County, NC, 2024 District 25 Court Judge - Seat 3 candidate who is redefining justice with empathy. This segment underscores the crucial role of empathy in judicial decisions, affecting not just the defendants but the entire community.
She shares heartfelt personal stories and family influences that have s...
The Future of Podcasting: AI as Your Digital Companion
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Ever wondered how AI can revolutionize your podcasting workflow? In our latest Unarmored Talk Podcast episode, discover the transformative power of AI with ChatGPT and its newest iteration, GPT-4. Learn how AI can generate content ideas, draft scripts, summarize episodes, and create engaging social media posts.
As your host, I share my approach to blending human creativity with AI assistance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a unique human touch. We explore the benefits of viewing AI as a "digital companion," with insights from Dr. Jerry Washington on artificial intelligence.
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Part 2: From War-Torn Vietnam to Decorated Marine
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What does it take to escape post-war Vietnam and become a decorated Marine Sergeant Major?
Listen to Retired Sergeant Major Chuong Nguyen share the final moments of his inspiring journey from Vietnam to America. Discover how his family's unwavering support fueled a life of resilience and service.
A story of courage and hope!
This episode offers a raw and intimate look at the challenges Chuong faced in his early life and how his military career profoundly shaped him.
Guest Link:
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From War-Torn Vietnam to Decorated Marine: Part 1
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What does it take to escape post-war Vietnam and become a decorated Marine Sergeant Major?
Get ready to witness the resilience, courage, and resourcefulness required in the relentless quest for freedom. From navigating treacherous seas to finding refuge on a remote island, retired Sergeant Major Chuong Nguyen joins me to recount his extraordinary journey.
Experience the tension and desperation of Chuong’s first escape attempt, the relief of reaching land, and the makeshift survival strategies on an island devoid of modern comforts. Feel the heartbreak of a shattered dream as...
Marine Corps Veteran Reveals Why Money Isn't Everything
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What happens when a Marine Corps veteran says goodbye to his corporate job and follows his passion into the entertainment world?
Join us as Victor Cannon, owner of CAN-DO Productions, Inc., shares his remarkable 30-year journey from the Marines and trash industry to the entertainment sector. Victor talks about the mixed reactions from family and friends, the strategic seven-year plan he crafted with his wife and the highs and lows of his path to creating Can-Do Productions. Hear about his work as a DJ, where he spreads love and joy at...
Podcast Discussion with ChatGPT-4o: The Military Veteran Brand
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If you're a military veteran seeking to navigate the job market, tune in for an enlightening discussion on leveraging your unique skill set. ChatGPT-4o brings to light the robust attributes veterans possess in high demand in the civilian workforce.
From leadership and teamwork to problem-solving and communication, we cover the soft skills that define the veteran brand and underscore how these can eclipse the need for a college degree in many fields.
This episode isn't just about identifying skills; it's a beacon of encouragement and a resource guide fo...
I Met My Boss to Resign and the Unthinkable Occurred!
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When integrity collides with professional expectations, the fallout can be a true test of character.
Pastor Willie Collins, Chief Petty Officer (retired) United States Navy, a man whose life has been defined by service to his country and his faith, walks us through the respectful and principled steps he took to exit gracefully, only to be met with an employer's scrutiny that put his religious integrity under the microscope.
His story is not merely about the act of leaving, but the journey through a tumultuous sea of questioning that ch...
Struggling with an Addiction? This Marine's Story of Triumph may HELP!
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Larry Hamilton, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran turned philanthropist and aspiring medical researcher provides an insider's perspective on why programs like Alcoholics Anonymous may miss the mark for some, and how a multifaceted approach to recovery is often the key to real progress.
When Larry Hamilton speaks, you can almost hear the echoes of a past life in the military, mingled with the wisdom of someone who's been through the crucible of addiction and emerged with a hope to heal others.
Through his generosity with Still Serving, Inc. an...
Forgiveness Changed Me FOREVER: A Journey of Healing and Growth
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King Jaquell Martin, a U.S. Army veteran, director, author, producer, motivational speaker, survivor of police brutality, and actor known for 'A War on Friendly Grounds' (2020), joins us for an 'unarmored' discussion about the delicate intricacies of forgiveness and its vital role in mending the emotional fabric of our lives.
Together, we explore the nuances of public perception and racial stereotypes, highlighting the importance of discovering individuality in a world quick to generalize. Our conversation emphasizes the courage required to extend forgiveness, especially when it is hard-earned.
King shares...
Embracing Courage: First Sergeant Beth Abbott's Journey
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The courage to face one's truth can be a harrowing journey, especially within the rigid confines of tradition and expectation. Today, we are humbled to share the raw, unfiltered story of First Sergeant Beth Abbott of the United States Marine Corps, who bravely navigated the waters of coming out as gay to her parents at 28.
Her tale isn't just about the struggle for acceptance; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, underscored by her gripping experiences in the military, including surviving IED blasts, subsequent battles with survivor's guilt...
Everyday Realities of Teaching High School Students: Daniel Flint
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This unarmored discussion is with Daniel Tobias Flint, originally from Chatham, New York and now teaching in the heart of Jacksonville, Florida. The 2022 Gilder Lehrman U.S. History Teacher of the Year for the State of Florida, takes us on a journey into the everyday realities of impactful teaching.
We navigate through diverse school settings, discussing the challenges of building connections in an environment where violence and loss are sometimes as common as textbooks and chalkboards.
Daniel shares his insights on the importance of parental involvement, the art of...
From the U.S. Army to Entrepreneurship: The Journey of Nike Roach
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Embark on an inspiring odyssey with the extraordinary Author, Veteran, and Entrepreneur Nike Roach, as he unveils the rich tapestry of his life, from his African village origins in South Carolina to the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Army, and beyond into the entrepreneurial arena.
Nike's narrative, peppered with humor and wisdom, serves as an audacious guide through the labyrinth of business ownership and the entrepreneurial mindset. He shares insights on the vital role of mentorship for those embarking on a business voyage, and how facing adversity can temper the s...
A Sergeant Major Unveils His Jaw-Dropping Life's Journey
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Join us for an inspiring episode of the Unarmored Talk Podcast featuring Sergeant Major (Ret.) Timothy 'T.O.' Clay. Hear about his jaw-dropping and inspirational journey chronicled in his book, 'From Here to There: The Prodigal and Back.'Through Timothy's heartfelt reflections, we explore the invaluable lessons learned from every experience and the transformative power of helping others. Discover how shared human connections have shaped Timothy's path and contributed to his recent sold-out event. This event serves as a testament to the collective growth found in our connections.
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Whoa! Rejected From the U.S. Navy: What's Next?
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Christine Mantyla, Paralegal, Realtor, and Co-founder of a Veterans' Series Virtual Forum, never donned a naval uniform. Yet, her passion resonates with the same devotion as those who have served.
We delve into the crucible of authenticity, confront addiction, and grapple with inherited trauma, all the while recognizing the silent battles against invisible illnesses like Fibromyalgia.
By sharing these vulnerabilities, Christine and I aim to light a beacon for those navigating tumultuous life challenges, affirming the transformative power of service and the strength we gain when we work together.
NFL Hero to Zero: A Heartbreaking Episode You Need to See!
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Have you ever witnessed the rise, fall, and rebirth of a titan? Join us as we delve into the extraordinary life of Dave Des Rochers, a former NFL offensive lineman turned entrepreneur, as he recounts a life teeming with victories and defeats, both on the gridiron and beyond.
Dave's career saga is nothing less than a rollercoaster, encompassing the thrill of professional football, a foray into acting, and the tumult of financial upheaval. However, his remarkable recovery—rooted in faith and a profound sense of purpose—will capture your heart and soul...
We Heard of Stress but Peri-menopause?
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Stress isn't merely a term we throw around; it's a daily adversary many of us grapple with. And for women, there's an additional challenge: peri-menopause. Yes, peri-menopause! And it can begin in some women in their 30s.
In this episode, we delve into how peri-menopause, often shrouded in secrecy, affected our guest, Amita Sharma, Co-founder of NourishDoc , leaving her bewildered and fearful.
We aim to contribute to breaking the silence surrounding women's health issues like peri-menopause, particularly for those juggling the triple demands of career, family, and personal well-being.<...
From a Military Family to 7-Time Award-Winning Filmmaker
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Ever feel like the odd one out in a family of tradition and expectation?
A'Noelle Jackson, the award-winning filmmaker, actress, and entrepreneur, recently shared her remarkable tale of growing from the artistic "black sheep" in a military family to a beacon of creativity in Hollywood.
Her infectious humor and heartwarming stories about her father's bewilderment over her career choice bring laughter and encouragement to anyone wrestling with the pressure of family legacies.
A'Noelle's journey is a testament to the power of following your heart and breaking the mol...
Doctor, are you SERIOUS? Leyna’s POWERFUL Story
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As we commemorate International Women's Day 2024, Leyna Marie Topete embodies the essence of faith, a positive mindset, and resilience.
Her journey is deeply rooted in her mother's courageous battle with breast cancer. Leyna's mother, a retired United States Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant, sadly passed away on September 11, 2019.
Leyna vividly illustrates her triumphs against all odds. She chose this podcast as the platform to publicly disclose her recent diagnosis of stage 1 breast cancer, discussing the emotional impact and how she is using it to uplift other women.
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From Marine Colonel to Advocate for Justice: Tim Dunn
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Imagine sitting down with a man whose life story is as impactful as the punches his golden glove boxer father once threw. That's what we're bringing to the table today, with Tim Dunn, a Marine Corps veteran and North Carolina Attorney General candidate.
In an armor-less conversation, Tim peels back the layers of his life, from the football fields of his youth to the legal battles he fights for juvenile defendants. Get ready to be moved by the humor and heartache, the dedication and determination, and the sheer resilience that has...
From 35 Years in the U.S. Marine Corps to Civilian Life
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From the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps to the introspective pathways of civilian life, retired Sergeant Major Cortez Brown graces our show with tales of his remarkable transition.
His story isn't just one of change, but a testament to the power of self-reflection to learn and improve, when transitioning out of the military. Cortez shares his journey, and we're reminded that leaving the uniform behind doesn't mean abandoning the brotherhood forged in service.
Tune in for a candid look at the struggles, triumphs, and profound personal gr...
Years of Adversity and Doubt: The Moment Everything Changed
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Have you ever encountered a life story so compelling it unfolds like an epic novel, where daunting hurdles are masterfully transformed into pathways of triumph?
Meet Dr. Jennifer James, the visionary Principal of Innovation Early College High School in Greenville, North Carolina, and the distinguished 2023 Pitt County Schools Principal of the Year.
Today, Dr. James candidly shares her journey, illuminating the dark shadows cast by her parent's divorce and the stark challenge of growing up without emotional support, leading up to the pivotal moment that changed everything!
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Overcoming Promotion Stressors: Insights from U.S. Army Vet. Michael Harris
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From military service to impactful community leadership, Michael Harris, International President of Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity Inc., takes us through his inspiring transition. Discover how he navigated and overcame numerous promotion stressors and learn about the fraternity's steadfast commitment to supporting veterans.
This episode isn't just about listening to a success story; it's about delving into Michael's thought process and understanding how he maximized unexpected opportunities, standing firm in his decisions to drive positive change. Join us to gain insights that could shape your path to leadership and personal growth.<...
Chaplains Face Adversity Too!
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Chaplain Michael Washington's story counters the notion that chaplains are exempt from life's trials, emphasizing the importance of their honesty in facing challenges.
This episode unveils his journey through military service, battling COVID-19, and lymphoma, showcasing the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in a chaplain's role.
Our conversation highlights how honesty in sharing personal struggles, unloading emotional burdens, and seeking mentorship can be transformative within the military and universally. These insights extend to anyone seeking resilience and gratitude in adversity.
Concluding the episode, we reflect on the...
Special Episode #1: The Moment I Started Saying “I’m Sorry.”
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Ever found yourself tongue-tied when it's time to say "I'm sorry? " You're not alone. My wife Nicole and I, peel back the curtain on our marriage to explore the healing power of a heartfelt apology in a heart-to-heart conversation that's as real as it gets.
Join us as we reminisce about a critical turning point in our relationship, where Nicole's resolve pushed us toward a deeper understanding and better communication. We'll share the laughter and the learning that has shaped us, offering up our experiences as a mirror for your personal g...
2023 Holiday Humor & Message
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🎙️Thank you for making 2023 an unforgettable year for the Unarmored Talk Podcast. 🙌💖 Stay tuned for what's to come, because together, we're going to make 2024 even more phenomenal! 🎉🎊
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Fighting to Stay Alive: Stage IV Kidney Failure - The Michael White Story
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Join me on a journey that's both heartbreaking and inspiring as I talk with Michael White, a U.S. Army veteran courageously fighting stage four kidney failure. Hear him bare his soul about this challenging ordeal and the impact it's having on his life. Michael’s story is raw, real, and a shining example of the power of human resilience. His hope and determination in the face of such adversity is nothing short of extraordinary.
Michael not only seeks a potential kidney donor but also hopes to inspire, educate, and encourage ot...
A U.S. Marine and YouTube Success: An Interview with Joey Nguyen
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Meet today's guest, Joey Nguyen, a Marine, YouTuber, and Positive Influencer who started his career as a Personal Assistant and is now the COO of Charlie Chang's thriving YouTube channel.
He shares his inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of persistence and consistency that led to the channel's success, which now has a follower count of over 60,000 subscribers. Joey's openness about his first-ever interview experience, the nerve-wracking excitement that it entails, and his dedication to educating people about interesting topics like life in the military and finance, are sure to inspire you.<...
