The Roger Sarnt Podcast

Send us a textThe unspoken truth about Army leadership firings lies in the coded language we often see in headlines. When senior officers are relieved for "loss of confidence" or "prohibited relationships," there's always a deeper story. This episode breaks down five recent high-profile cases where military careers came crashing down—from a four-star general to battalion commanders—all over inappropriate relationships.We dive into the shocking case of Major General Michael Turley, demoted from two-star general all the way to lieutenant colonel, erasing decades of rank progression and drastically reducing his retirement pay. You'll hear about General Charles Hamilton, whose firing marked the first time in nearly 20 years that a four-star general was removed from command. The standards apply regardless of gender, as Colonel Megan Sullivan discovered when allegations of sexual misconduct against male subordinates ended her groundbreaking command position.The military's professional boundaries exist for a reason, and these cases demonstrate that even consensual relationships can destroy careers when they create the appearance of favoritism or misuse of rank. The higher you climb in military leadership, the more devastating the fall when those boundaries are crossed. For junior soldiers watching these leaders face consequences, the message is clear: accountability applies at every level of the chain of command.Whether you're currently serving or simply interested in military leadership culture, these stories provide a sobering reminder that integrity matters. When leaders fail to maintain professional relationships, they undermine the very foundation of military discipline. Share your thoughts—are these firings proof the Army holds leaders accountable, or does the system only react once situations become too problematic to ignore?Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Send us a textEver wondered if your military benefits could do more than just help you buy a house? What if your VA loan could actually eliminate your personal debt while getting you into your dream home? This eye-opening episode reveals a powerful, legitimate strategy that transforms how military members approach homebuying.We dive deep into the secret weapon within VA loans – seller concessions that can be used to pay off personal debt. Unlike any other loan program, VA loans allow up to 4% of the home's value in seller concessions that can be directed toward paying off credit cards, car loans, or other debts. For a $300,000 home, that's potentially $12,000 to eliminate financial burdens! This strategy works whether you initially qualify for the loan or need the debt reduction to improve your debt-to-income ratio to meet qualification requirements.The episode breaks down exactly how this works through the VA Lender's Handbook, walking through real-world scenarios and calculations. You'll learn what counts toward the 4% limit, how to calculate potential savings, and the critical differences between using concessions for debt payoff versus interest rate buydowns. We even explore how this approach differs from conventional and FHA loans, highlighting why the VA loan truly stands as the most powerful mortgage option available to service members.Whether you're actively house-hunting or planning for the future, this knowledge gives you a financial advantage that few military members fully understand. Share this episode with your fellow service members – this information could literally save them thousands while improving their financial future. Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck if you've got the right tools in your ruck!Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Send us a textYour NCOER support form holds more power over your military career than you realize, yet most soldiers treat it like meaningless paperwork. Sergeant Cruz breaks down the harsh reality that eight out of ten NCO raters completely ignore this critical document, leading to watered-down evaluations and career stagnation for countless soldiers.We explore the strategic importance of the DA Form 2166-9-1-Alpha and how it serves as your roadmap to evaluation success. From setting realistic goals within your first 30 days to documenting daily accomplishments, this conversation reveals why smart soldiers use the support form proactively rather than reactively. You'll discover how pages three and four contain hidden guidance on Army Leadership Requirements that directly impact your evaluation ratings.The discussion covers the sobering truth about rater control over evaluations and why appeals processes fail without proper documentation. Sergeant Cruz shares practical strategies for maintaining monthly records, aligning with rater expectations, and protecting yourself from evaluation disputes. We also address the knowledge gap in professional military education, explaining why these critical skills aren't taught at BLC or ALC, leaving soldiers to learn through trial and error.Whether you're transitioning from specialist to sergeant or looking to improve your evaluation outcomes, this episode provides actionable insights for taking control of your NCOER process. Subscribe for more essential military knowledge that fills the gaps in formal training.Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Send us a textAre you struggling to write NCOER bullets that truly capture your leadership impact? The difference between mediocre and exceptional Army leaders comes down to understanding three critical competencies: Leads, Develops, and Achieves.In this essential episode, we break down exactly what these competencies mean beyond the official language of DAPAM and AR 623-3. Your rater and senior rater aren't just looking for buzzwords—they're evaluating how effectively you influence others, build trust, communicate purpose, and deliver results under pressure. I share concrete examples of powerful bullets that demonstrate each competency in action, helping you transform vague accomplishments into quantifiable impacts.The "Develops" competency deserves special attention as it represents your leadership legacy. When you properly develop subordinates, you create a force multiplier effect that extends your impact throughout the organization. Too many NCOs fail here due to misguided concerns about job security. I explain why the opposite is true—strong development of your replacement actually accelerates your own advancement.What separates truly exceptional leaders is how they bring everything together through the "Achieves" competency. It's not just about checking boxes; it's about taking ownership and delivering measurable results that elevate your entire organization's performance. Whether someone's watching or not, these competencies should inform every aspect of your leadership.Ready to transform your leadership approach? Join me in this practical, no-nonsense breakdown of Army leadership fundamentals. Share this episode with your battle buddies, follow the show for weekly Army insights, and connect with me on social media to discuss your specific leadership challenges. Remember—you don't have to embrace the suck if you've got the right tools in your ruck.Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Explore the core attributes that distinguish great Army leaders: character, presence, and intellect. Understand how character builds trust and accountability, while presence reflects professionalism and resilience. Discover actionable advice for showcasing these skills in evaluations, with concrete examples to enhance your NCOER. Delve into the importance of mental agility and innovative thinking in fostering effective leadership. Elevate your leadership game by mastering these essential qualities, essential for every aspiring leader.

Send us a textAre today's soldiers truly soft, or are they simply adapting to systems that haven't evolved with the times? This thought-provoking episode dives deep into the generational divide shaping today's Army culture.When senior NCOs claim that Generation Z soldiers lack discipline or respect for tradition, they're often misinterpreting critical thinking as defiance. The younger generation's tendency to question "why" before action isn't necessarily about avoiding work—it's about seeking efficient solutions and understanding purpose. From customs and courtesies to training methodologies, what looks like resistance to authority often reveals a deeper desire to modernize outdated approaches.The digital native generation brings technological fluency that could revolutionize military operations if properly leveraged. Yet when they suggest using cloud-based tools instead of whiteboards, or question why PT doesn't match the actual requirements of the Army Fitness Test, they're frequently dismissed with "this is how we've always done it." Meanwhile, the Army preaches modernization while clinging to traditional methods that fail to engage today's soldiers effectively.Perhaps most concerning is how the Army sends mixed messages about mental health—encouraging awareness and self-care while simultaneously expecting soldiers to "suck it up" when they actually seek support. Similarly, feedback systems break down when leadership doesn't create safe spaces for honest critique, shutting down the very innovation they claim to value.The solution isn't for one generation to simply adapt to the other, but for the Army as an institution to evolve in ways that harness the strengths of all its members. Whether you're an NCO frustrated with changing norms or a junior soldier seeking better systems, this conversation will challenge your perspective on what true military readiness looks like in the digital age.Subscribe now for more no-fluff discussions about the real challenges facing today's Army. What outdated military practice do you think needs to evolve? Share your thoughts in the comments!Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Facing a military promotion board can be daunting, but knowing what to expect makes a world of difference. Learn the nine key elements that can set you apart, from mastering your chain of command to crafting a compelling personal biography. Discover the importance of appearance, confidence, and etiquette in making a lasting impression. Mock boards can help you practice under pressure, while understanding critical regulations boosts your readiness. Plus, get tips on responding gracefully to tricky questions and presenting your unique value.

Send us a textConfused about the Army's new facial hair policy? You're not alone. The recently released Directive 2025-13 has created waves throughout all Army components, with soldiers debating what it really means for their grooming standards. Join me as I cut through the confusion and give you a straight-talking breakdown of what's actually written in the policy.Many soldiers are misinterpreting the directive, claiming it doesn't explicitly require shaving. I carefully analyze the actual language: "all male soldiers will maintain a clean, shaven face when in uniform or on duty in civilian attire." While it may not literally say "you must shave," the meaning becomes crystal clear when you connect all the pieces of the memorandum. More importantly, once your command issues an order based on this policy, you're legally obligated to comply or face potential UCMJ action.The policy introduces a significant change to how shaving accommodations work. All existing profiles must be re-evaluated within 90 days, with the ultimate goal of eliminating traditional shaving profiles entirely. Instead, soldiers will need to follow a new Exception to Policy (ETP) process that requires medical evaluation, treatment plans, and approval from an O5 commander. I walk through exactly how this process works and why you should be proactive about scheduling your medical appointment.As a leader or soldier, understanding this directive isn't optional. I encourage you to read the policy yourself rather than relying solely on others' interpretations. Develop informed questions, consult legal resources if needed, and prepare for implementation deadlines that many units are already establishing. Whether you agree with the policy or not, knowing exactly what it requires will help you navigate the changes successfully and avoid unnecessary disciplinary issues.Have you started the process of getting an ETP? Are commanders at your installation already announcing implementation dates? Share your experience in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more straight-talk about Army regulations and policies that affect your military career.Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Send us a textWhat separates excellence from mediocrity in military service? It all comes down to your relationship with standards. While the Army establishes baseline requirements for physical fitness, marksmanship, and professional competence, truly exceptional soldiers view these minimums as merely the starting point—not the destination.In this candid exploration of military standards and expectations, we dissect the Sergeant Major of the Army's powerful statement: "I don't like to start from the minimum standard. That, to me, is not a place you start any conversation, especially as warfighters." Too often, we encounter soldiers approaching their Army Combat Fitness Test with a dangerous mindset: "As long as I do my minimum, I'm good." This checkbox mentality fundamentally misunderstands what military service demands.The conversation expands beyond physical fitness to examine how competitive spirit shapes military excellence. When you consistently push yourself beyond requirements—whether in PT, weapons qualification, or professional development—you're building the resilience and capability that combat situations demand. As the SMA reminds us, "This is a hard life. This is not easy. You chose the path that needs a machete."We also explore the journey from basic compliance to genuine commitment that represents the maturation of a soldier. New recruits rarely fully comprehend what they've signed up for, but effective leadership helps them understand the deeper purpose behind standards and expectations. The Army isn't merely a jobs program—it's a profession with real consequences for national security.Have you fallen into the minimum standard trap? Are soldiers in your unit sandbagging their performance? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like and subscribe as we continue exploring what it means to serve with excellence rather than adequacy.Video is from The Jedburgh Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@jedburghpodcastSupport the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b

Send us a textThe military grooming standards debate has reached a critical turning point. A bombshell Military.com article reveals the Army's upcoming policy that could separate soldiers diagnosed with pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB)—a condition affecting up to 94% of Black men—if they require shaving exemptions for more than 12 months in a two-year period.What makes this policy particularly contentious is the clear demographic impact. PFB occurs when tightly coiled hair curls back into the skin after shaving, causing painful bumps and potential scarring. While the Army plans to implement treatment plans, including possible laser removal (which can cause pigmentation changes), critics—including an anonymous senior NCO—claim the policy is "racially motivated" with "no tactical reason" behind it.The timing raises eyebrows against recruitment statistics showing Black Americans representing 25% of Army recruits while white recruitment has plummeted 43% over five years. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a review of grooming standards across services, claiming standards have "fallen" in recent years despite a 2021 military study finding no conclusive evidence that well-groomed beards compromise gas mask function.This isn't just about shaving—it's about the intersection of military standards, medical realities, and racial equity. As a leader with almost 18 years of service, I've seen standards evolve, but professional implementation remains crucial regardless of personal opinions. What's your take on this controversial policy? Does maintaining traditional grooming standards justify potentially losing qualified soldiers over a treatable skin condition? The conversation continues as we await the official guidance and its impact on the force.Resources:https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/06/27/new-army-shaving-policy-will-allow-soldiers-skin-condition-affects-mostly-black-men-be-kicked-out.htmlhttps://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/03/14/marines-can-now-be-kicked-out-skin-condition-affects-mostly-black-men.htmlhttps://www.uspharmacist.com/article/pseudofolliculitis-barbae-prevention-and-treatmenthttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hirsutism/symptoms-causes/syc-20354935Support the showThanks for listening, please download and leave a review.Remember, you don't have to embrace the suck, if you have the right tools in your ruck! If you have any question comments, or ideas for the show you can send them to my Gmail account: rogersarnt@gmail.com Follow the show on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Discord: Lintree: https://linktr.ee/rogersarntIG: https://www.instagram.com/roger_sarnt/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rogersarntTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rogersarntDiscord: https://discord.gg/sA5cYD2N7b