

Ones Ready
Aaron Love, Trent Seegmiller, and Jared "Peaches" Pietras
A team of active duty Combat Control (CCT), Pararescue (PJ), and Special Reconnaissance (SR) leveraging our 69 years of special operations experience to make the next generation of operators smarter, faster and stronger than we ever were. We are the PREMIERE resource for all things Air Force Special Warfare. The Ones Ready Podcast is honest talk about what it is like to go from a know-nothing high school graduate to an elite Special Operator. We will cover important practices for success including physical training, nutrition, recovery, and mindset traits essential to any team. Join us in The Team Room to get all your questions answered!! With battle-tested operators from across USAF SPECWAR and far-reaching web of recruiters, subject matter experts, and friends, there are no questions we can’t answer- and if we can’t, we know exactly where to look. See you in The Team Room!Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the OnesReady team are those of the team and do not reflect the official policy or position of the DoD. Any content provided by our Podcast guests, bloggers, sponsors, or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign the DoD, any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 20, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep 311: Combat Rescue Officer JMac
Send us a textThis one gets spicy immediately! JMac has been on the podcast a couple times before and the Ones Ready Team couldn't wait to get the most BRO that ever went CRO to sit down again! The conversation was filled with fascinating topics that will inspire you to become a better leader. It covered the unofficial nature of the podcast, which adds an element of authenticity and free-flowing conversation. The importance of podcasts in bringing military conversations to the public cannot be overstated, as it helps to bridge the gap between military personnel and the public.The conversation also highlighted the need for problem-solving and emotional intelligence in leadership, which are critical skills that every leader should possess. The issue of personnel problems in the military was also discussed, emphasizing the importance of leaders and managers in creating a positive work environment.Furthermore, the conversation delved into the focus on social issues rather than important matters, the stratification of the force, and its impact on competition. The importance of humility and competence in individuals was also stressed, and the need to cut through the madness and lead with common sense was emphasized.Overall, the conversation was insightful, inspiring, and motivating. It will make you think about your own leadership skills and encourage you to strive for excellence in all that you do.Chapters00:00 The Unofficial Official Podcast, Aaron steals the intro13:52 Focusing on Important Matters, Not Social Issues30:35 Emotional Intelligence and Tough Decision-Making39:00 Managing Expectations and Taking Charge of Your Destiny46:11 Avoiding the Need for Approval53:23 Dealing with Haters and Staying True to YourselfJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Apr 13, 2024 • 53min
Ep 310: What Is Deploying in the Air Force REALLY like?
Send us a textWe checked out the archives and realized that Peaches and Aaron dropped a banger and forgot to release it. Peaches did, Aaron was passable (shout out Aaron Love Hate Club). What are deployments really like? It is 99% really boring minutae spiced up with moments of combat and sheer terror. The process leading up to the deployment is a horse of a different color. Deployment lines, training cycles, and all the rest of what it's like to deploy not only in the Air Force Special Warfare Career fields but for all the jobs you can do in th USAF!!!We hope you guys like this one! Leave us questions in the comments! Chapters00:00 Introduction and Merchandise00:38 Cones and Quitters01:27 Stolen Valor03:23 Deployment Preparation04:45 Deployment Line and Training06:01 Pre-Deployment Challenges08:29 Training and Team Dynamics09:25 Supporting Families and Home Life10:51 Vehicle and Bill Management13:40 Leaving for Deployment23:55 Leaving Vehicles and Keys27:07 Discussion about hoist and ramen28:00 Lack of hoist left by Wyatt28:23 Availability and popularity of hoist28:57 The allure of gunfights and adrenaline rushes29:19 The addictive nature of near-death experiences29:43 The validation and career impact of deployments30:44 The negative consequences of chasing deployments31:14 The impact of deployments on individuals and teams31:47 The thrill and addiction of troops in contact32:46 The importance of the first deployment experience33:29 The impact of deployments on career trajectory34:28 The destruction of historical sites in Iraq35:11 The fascination with warfare and historical archetypes36:12 The surreal and otherworldly experiences of deployment37:09 The impact of warfare on cultural heritage38:18 The lingering insecurities and need for validation39:11 The balance between vigilance and paranoia40:43 The transformation of political beliefs over time41:42 The experience at a Republican bar45:48 The dangers and habits of dipping tobacco49:53 The cautionary tale of trying dip and getting drunk51:43 Promotion of Ones Ready and 18 Alpha Fitness52:09 EncouragSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Apr 13, 2024 • 50min
Ep 309: Air Force Special Warfare Frequently Asked Questions
Send us a textYou have questions about Air Force Special Warfare. We have answers. This episode is the frequently asked question episode. That's it. That's the whole description.Thanks so much for your continued support! Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Apr 9, 2024 • 55min
Ep 308: UPDATE - Air Force Lowers Body Mass Index (BMI) Entrance Standards
Send us a textThe Team isn't super pumped with the news. From the Air Force Times:"The Air Force has loosened its restrictions on body fat for new recruits, one of the latest moves to grow the pool of potential applicants amid the military’s recruiting crisis.In the past, men and women’s bodies needed to be 20% or 28% fat, respectively, to be eligible for service. Air Force Recruiting Service spokesperson Leslie Brown said Monday that benchmark is now 26% for men and 36% for women."So why did the Air Force make the decision?! And most importantly, how does the team feel about it? Uh, not good. Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinChapters00:00 Ambush intros and Cheshire Cats01:07 Air Force Misses Recruiting Goals and Loosens BMI Standards21:48 Importance of High Standards and Leadership26:45 Discussion on Exceptions and Cyber Command28:09 Story of Scottie Gearing's Survival28:37 The Importance of Maintaining High Standards29:35 The Negative Consequences of Lowering Standards35:20 The Need for Disciplined and Highly Qualified Candidates40:34Addressing the Issue of Obesity in the MilitarySupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Apr 6, 2024 • 56min
Ep 307: Ones Ready Fixes Officers
Send us a textHow would Trent fix officers (and how will Peaches avoid being fired after the episode)? Find out with this one. Up next? We will fix NCOs, too. Make sure to catch this episode by becoming a member of our YouTube channel. Exclusive content, early access, discounts on merch- everything you need on your journey. We have multiple tiers from Development to Pipeline to Team tier, with perks at each level that are focused specifically on you and your success. Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinChapters00:00 Introduction and Officer Accessions02:02 The 18X Program and Green Berets04:17 The Proposal: Enlisted First, Warrant Officers, and Officer Selection06:07 Restructuring Enlisted Ranks and Eliminating Chiefs08:20 Discussion on Leadership and Rank Structure21:26 Unintended Consequences of Leadership and Officer Intentions25:18 Enlisted-Officer Gap and Education Levels27:20 Sponsor Promotion28:41 Conclusion and Sponsor Promotion28:50 Bougie Drinking Habits29:01 Enlisted Officer Debate30:00 Revisiting Enlisted Pay31:24 The Role of Service Academies32:05 Removing Duty, Honor, and Country33:09 The Importance of Service and Duty34:24 Colonel Nathan R. Jessup35:07 Decisions Made Without Understanding36:25 The Value of Dive School37:24 Diving in Humanitarian and Operational Missions38:04 The Unique Access of Air Force Spec Ops39:47 The Divide Created by Social Media and Media43:48 The Lack of Focus on Squadrons44:21 Accountability and Getting Rid of Ineffective Leaders46:01 The Need for Clear Responsibilities and Standards48:24 The Need for Change and Feedback51:28 The Role of Chiefs and Senior Officers54:23 The Need for Flexibility in Career Progression55:15 Promotion and Training OpportunitiesSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 3min
Ep 306: Chief Master Sergeant Josh Leonard
Send us a textWelcome back to the team room! Chief Master Sergeant Josh Leonard is returning for his second episode with a lot of updates from Washington, D.C.In this conversation, Chief Master Sergeant Josh Leonard talks about his experience working on the Hill and his transition back to the Pentagon. He highlights the importance of relationships and bipartisanship in Congress, discusses the challenges of passing legislation, and emphasizes the value of experience over education. He also stresses the need for better communication between different levels of leadership.Chief Leonard, Peaches, and Trent discuss the infrastructure and military construction issues faced by the military and the efforts to address them. They also talk about the new Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force and the challenges he will face as he takes the seat.Join our YouTube channel to catch this episode. We offer exclusive content, early access, and free merch before anyone else! Subscribe today and be part of the team!Chapters00:00 Introduction, Background, and Aaron catches strays for no reason01:08 Working on the Hill03:22 Transitioning to the Pentagon04:15 Advising Top Air Force Officials05:30 Relationships and Bipartisanship on the Hill07:38 Performative Aspects of Congress08:09 Transitioning to the Hill10:17 Learning and Humility on the Hill11:43 Roles and Responsibilities of Staffers13:45 Education vs. Experience15:19 Leadership Knowledge and Experience17:29 Communication and Feedback between Levels19:02 Infrastructure and Military Construction21:05 Showing Congressional Staffers the Reality23:02 Congressional Dynamics and Funding27:32 Transitioning to a New Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force31:57 Challenges for the New Chief Master Sergeant36:22 Addressing Disparities in Pay and Compensation39:33 Disparities in Job Opportunities for Retired Enlisted vs. Officers40:16 Pay Disparity in the Civilian Sector43:48 Difficulties in Moving Funding47:48 Congressional Directed Spending57:48 Surprises in Congressional Funding01:01:34 Advice for Those Joining the MilitarySupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Mar 30, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep. 305: Special Tactics Officer, Prior CCT Capt Marc Esposito
Send us a textWelcome back to the team room! This week, Trent sits down with Purple Heart recipient, prior Combat Control Tech Sergeant and current Flight Commander, Special Tactics Officer Marc Esposito! From his time in Afghanistan, the unfortunate event that injured him, his recovery and move to officer, Capt Espo has a wealth of knowledge that he hopes to communicate to everyone that thinks they might want to give Air Force Special Operations a go. Make sure to follow Capt Esposito on Instagram at Esposito_Unbroken, and thanks to all of you for your continued support. Want early access to these podcasts and a whole lot more? Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinChapters00:00 Introduction and Appreciation01:25 Motivation to Join the Military05:13 Training in the Pipeline07:39 First Assignment in Okinawa, Japan10:07 Deployment to Afghanistan13:03 Injury from an IED28:25 Meeting a Vietnam Veteran30:24 Recovery at the Center for the Intrepid32:17 Going to College and Finding a New Passion34:02 Cross-Country Bicycle Ride for Wounded Warriors36:27 Returning to the 2-1 and Facing New Challenges37:53 Running the Battle Program and Training Future Operators40:43 Training at Athletes Performance (EXOS)42:10 Becoming an Officer and Returning to the Teams45:02 Working at the Special Warfare Training Group46:01 Returning to the 2-2 STS and Deploying53:42 Returning to ATC and Improving the Pipeline59:06 Starting the Esposito_Unbroken Instagram PageJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Mar 23, 2024 • 1h 8min
Ep 304: New Boot Goofin' with TSgt Mark "Funky" Bunkley!
Send us a textWhat's up to all the NorCal Bad Boys out here for this episode with the man, the myth, the legend, TSgt Mark "Funky" Bunkley. In this conversation, Mark Bunkley discusses his transition from being an operator to a special operations recruiter. He highlights the challenges and misconceptions of recruiting for special warfare and emphasizes the importance of educating the public about the benefits and skills gained in these career fields. Mark shares his strategies for selling special warfare to potential recruits, particularly athletes, and emphasizes the need for consistency and proper training. He also expresses his job satisfaction in mentoring and seeing recruits succeed in their training and careers. Mark shares his experiences in Air Force Special Warfare and the impact he has had on recruits' lives. He emphasizes the importance of progress and taking responsibility for one's actions. Mark discusses the challenges he faced and the character traits that contribute to success in training. He also highlights the opportunities for advancement and personal growth in special warfare. Mark addresses the role of parents in the decision-making process and offers advice on overcoming doubts. Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9aFBBZoBcQk8UUN_pO7nDA/joinChapters00:00 Introduction and Best Recruiting Event01:34 Transition to Recruiting and Challenges03:03 Misconceptions and Benefits of Special Warfare04:26 Lack of Knowledge and Awareness06:29 Transitioning from Operator to Recruiter08:25 Skills Gained in Special Warfare09:23 Intrinsic Motivation and Expectations10:59 Selling Special Warfare and Personal Experiences14:38 Recruiting Strategies and Target Audience19:08 Importance of Baseline Athleticism23:57 Common Mistakes in Physical Training26:45 Preparing for Special Warfare at a Young Age29:08 Importance of Consistency and Avoiding Overtraining33:06 Job Satisfaction and Impact of Mentoring34:14 Changing Lives and Progress35:00 Mark literally doxxes some dudes and we all laugh about it36:12 Taking Responsibility and Building Confidence37:31 Character and Success39:19 AdvancSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Mar 23, 2024 • 43min
Ep 303: UFC Fighter, Combat Controller Connor Matthews
Send us a textWelcome back to the team room! We have some exciting news. Our team member, Connor Matthews, is fighting in the UFC on March 30th. Ones Ready is proud to be one of his sponsors for this incredible journey!In this episode, Connor shares his journey to the UFC and the challenges he has faced along the way. He highlights the importance of maintaining focus, making sacrifices and the mindset needed to overcome setbacks. Connor also discusses his role as a T3I developer and how he imparts lessons to aspiring candidates. He emphasizes the significance of developing a winning mentality and creating a culture of excellence.Connor's story inspires us to work hard and never give up on our dreams. He reminds us that building a team with diverse skill sets is crucial to achieving success. He also highlights how important it is to earn respect every day and put aside ego. His story teaches us the value of hard work, sacrifice, and team bonds.We are thrilled to support Connor in his journey to the UFC. If you want to be a part of this journey, check out his website and show your support. Remember, with hard work, dedication, and a winning mindset, anything is possible.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:06 Connor's Journey to the UFC03:38 Maintaining Focus and Making Sacrifices06:07 Overcoming Setbacks and Staying Motivated09:27 Imparting Lessons to Aspiring Candidates11:26 Incorporating Pipeline Antics into Training Camps13:38 Handling Setbacks and Moving Forward17:33 Developing a Winning Mentality21:01 Inspiration from Georges St-Pierre25:11 Creating a Culture of Excellence27:01 Preparing for the Fight29:07 Feeling Grounded and Focused32:25 The Team Environment and Nothing is Impossible Mentality33:25 Building a Team34:09 Competition Mentality35:23 Earning Respect36:35 Diversity in Fighting37:30 Team Bonds in MMA38:52 Sacrifices for Teammates40:18 Supporting ConnorSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...

Mar 16, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ep 302: F-35 Pilot Col Charles "VICE" Fallon
Send us a textIn this inspiring conversation, Col "Vice" Fallon talks about his journey in the Air Force and the importance of staying connected with one's tactical roots. He emphasizes the exciting adventure and endless opportunities that come with serving in the Air Force and living overseas. The conversation also covers the harsh realities of combat and highlights the importance of teamwork and staying in a flow state during high-stress situations. Col Fallon stresses the significance of training and muscle memory and the continuous need for optimized training models and improvement. He also discusses the importance of providing tailored instruction and improving instructors. The conversation concludes on an optimistic note, emphasizing the need for lifelong growth and development in the military. In this conversation, Peaches and Vice also discuss the importance of breaking assumptions and continuously improving in the military. They highlight the significance of focusing on service in retention and recruitment efforts rather than just practical considerations. The conversation concludes with an encouraging message for young people considering a military path, reminding them to hit the 'I believe' button and embrace the opportunity to serve. Overall, this conversation is a reminder of the exciting and rewarding journey of service in the military. It inspires us to stay connected to our roots, prioritize growth and development, and embrace the opportunities that come with serving our country.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Appreciation01:06 Transition to F-35 and Tactical Roots03:13 The Adventure and Opportunities in the Air Force05:06 The Importance of Teamwork in Fighter Aviation06:24 The Realities of Combat and the Business End of Operations08:47 Appreciating the American Military Might09:45 The Personal Growth of Living Overseas13:08 The Significance of Combat Time16:00 The Intensity and Flow State of Combat17:35 The Importance of Training and Muscle Memory19:04 The Value of Synthetic Training and AI20:32 The Need for Continuous Improvement in Training33:35 The Revelation from Playing Video Games38:18 The Need for Optimized Training ModelsSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page: HERECollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code: ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code): ATACLeteCardoMax - Promo Code: ONESREADYDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYDFND Apparel - Promo Code: ONESREADYHoist - Promo Code: ONESREADYKill Cliff - Pr...