The Roger Sarnt Podcast

Send us a textOn this episode of the Roger Sarnt Podcast, join me, Sarnt Cruz, as I confront the stark realities of mental health issues within the military, a topic that's alarmingly urgent yet often shrouded in silence. Starting with a somber reflection on a holiday weekend, we unravel the distressing statistics from 2023, where nearly a third of our troops were hospitalized for mental health issues, and 523 tragically lost their lives to suicide. Our discussion is not just about numbers but the real struggles of young enlisted men facing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, and how these challenges demand immediate and proactive engagement from all of us.We take a hard look at the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health in the military, especially when it comes to seeking help. Personal stories of heavy drinking and the journey to sobriety highlight the cultural barriers that deter troops from embracing behavioral health services. This isn’t about pointing fingers but understanding that reaching out is a profound act of courage, not a weakness, and that it doesn’t compromise military readiness. Leadership plays an indispensable role here, and we emphasize the importance of creating an environment where prioritizing mental health is not only encouraged but supported without fear of judgment.Navigating the mental health care system can be daunting, but it is a journey worth the patience and effort. Much like investing in our futures, finding the right mental health professional requires time and an open mind. Through this episode, we explore the power of addressing feelings, peeling back layers, and gaining insights into personal behaviors. As we wrap up, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our listeners and invite you to continue this important conversation. Remember, with the right tools and support, mental health challenges don’t have to be so overwhelming.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

Dive into the impact of President Trump's executive order on workplace diversity and hiring practices. Explore the distinction between DEI and the Army Equal Opportunity Program, including their roles and implementation in the military. The discussion touches on the effects of these policies on women in combat and recent changes to promotion boards aimed at reducing bias. With insights on both sides of the DEI debate, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of inclusivity in the Army.

Send us a textIn this episode, we explore how the FDA's recent approval of Zyn nicotine pouches is changing military habits. With these pouches becoming popular, the traditional 'spitter' bottles used for chewing tobacco might become a thing of the past. I'll discuss what this shift means for service members and reflect on the role of 'spitters' during the Global War on Terror and speculate on a potential change in the regulation to accommodate for the "new trend." Join us as we say goodbye to an old tradition and welcome a new era. https://taskandpurpose.com/culture/fda-zyn-nicotine-pouches-gwot-spitter/?fbclid=IwY2xjawIKPIZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHU5kvbz9HUSnXkzY9Zt6PN0ZsHRE5bBbzcLNjdQ1F89PbFT_I7Ie12vMaQ_aem_2DLs6U5Q5kpGsONVnOGkQAhttps://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-marketing-20-zyn-nicotine-pouch-products-after-extensive-scientific-reviewhttps://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/market-and-distribute-tobacco-product/premarket-tobacco-product-applicationshttps://www.npr.org/2025/01/17/nx-s1-5265627/zyn-nicotine-pouches-fda#:~:text=Zyn%20nicotine%20pouches%20can%20be,What%20does%20this%20mean%3F&text=Federal%20health%20officials%20have%20authorized,user's%20gum%20and%20upper%20lip.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 textDid you know military families can get financial help for child care?  With the rising cost of living, the DoD Fee Assistance Program can save service members thousands on child care expenses. In this episode, I break down how the program works, who qualifies, and how you can take advantage of these benefits. Don’t miss out on these savings! Tune in now and secure the best care for your little ones while serving your country. https://www.moaa.org/content/publications-and-media/news-articles/2024-news-articles/advocacy/child-care,-spouse-licensure,-and-more-how-the-fy-2025-ndaa-will-help-military-families/ https://childcare.gov/consumer-education/military-child-care-financial-assistance https://public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil/mcc-central/mcchome/mccyn/army https://public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil/mcc-central/mcchome/child-care-in-your-homeSupport 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 Army's new Operational Deployment Pay is designed to give extra financial support to Soldiers during deployments. It recognizes the hardships of being in high-risk, high-stress environments and helps ease the financial strain on both Soldiers and their Families. This initiative shows the Army’s commitment to valuing service and ensuring troops are better supported while away from home.https://youtu.be/P-pnqcVGraESupport 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 textIn this episode, we delve into a surprising trend impacting the future of military leadership—more than half of Senior Army Officers are opting out of command consideration. What’s driving these experienced leaders to step away from such pivotal roles? From operational challenges and work-life balance concerns to shifts in career aspirations, we explore the deeper factors influencing this decision. Join me as we unpack the implications for the Army’s Chain of Command, readiness, and recruitment strategies. Don’t miss this crucial conversation about the changing dynamics of military leadership in the 21st century. https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/12/13/more-half-of-senior-army-officers-are-turning-down-command-consideration.htmlhttps://www.federalpay.org/military/army-ranks-to-gs-gradehttps://soldierforlife.army.mil/Documents/ChangeOfMission/ChgOfMission_Oct2021-v2.pdfhttps://hbr.org/2021/01/work-life-balance-is-a-cycle-not-an-achievementSupport 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 textAs we wrap up 2024, it’s time to reflect on the highlights, growth, and memorable moments from this incredible year. In this special Year in Review episode, we’re taking a look back at the most popular episodes, the biggest milestones, and the unforgettable guests and conversations that made this year one to remember.Join me as I dive into the stories that resonated most with you, our listeners, share insights, and look ahead to the exciting things we have in store for 2025. Whether you’ve been with us since the very beginning or just tuned in recently, this episode is a celebration of you—our amazing community.Don’t miss it! And stay tuned for even bigger things in the year to come.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 textIn this episode, we dive into the complex realities of working overtime in the Army. For service members, the demands of military life often extend far beyond the standard 9-to-5, with overtime becoming a common part of the job. But is it always a good thing? We explore the benefits of working extra hours—like the opportunity for career advancement, skill-building, and increased pay—while also examining the potential downsides, such as burnout, stress, and the impact on personal life. From my perspective, I offer a balanced look at how overtime affects both the body and mind, and discuss strategies for managing workload, maintaining morale, and ensuring work-life balance in a high-pressure environment. Whether you're in the service or just curious about military life, this episode sheds light on the hidden costs and rewards of going above and beyond the call of duty.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 U.S. Army's new reimbursement policy for childcare transportation costs aimed at easing financial burdens for active-duty service members. Learn how this initiative supports families newly arriving at installations with non-availability of childcare. Key insights include eligibility criteria, maximum reimbursement limits, and common challenges in the claim process. Sergeant Cruz also provides practical tips on documenting proof of non-availability and submitting claims, ensuring parents can maintain childcare while fulfilling military duties.

Send us a textIn this episode, I talk about the latest updates on the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP) revision. Join me as I dive into the new standards, guidelines, and strategies designed to ensure our soldiers are in peak physical condition. Whether you're an active-duty soldier, a fitness enthusiast, or just curious about military fitness, this podcast will keep you informed and motivated. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and be the best version of yourself!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