It's A Blast Podcast

Mike sits down with Jeff Truex, a retired Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician, and discusses his military career and the creation of the nonprofit organization, After the Long Walk, aimed at reducing EOD veteran suicide. After the Long Walk was founded in 2015 in response to the suicide of an EOD technician. The organization provides a 24-hour hotline manned by EOD technicians for EOD technicians in need of support. After the Long Walk is a program created by and for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians to provide support and prevent suicide within the EOD community. Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

In this conversation, Mike interviews Michael Norton, a recruiting battalion commander, to debunk misconceptions about the state of Army recruiting. Norton emphasizes that the Army does not have a recruiting problem band highlights the success of his recruiting battalions in achieving their missions and overproducing. Norton addresses concerns about compromised standards, explaining that the army has not changed its standards but has provided more opportunities and support for test-taking skills. He also discusses the role of social media in recruiting and the benefits of joining the Army.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

Military legend SGM Mike Vining discusses his time as an EOD tech in Vietnam and founding Delta Force. Topics include intense EOD training, Vietnamization mission in Cambodia, specialized military training, mentorship, enforcing ship duties, 'The Hurt Locker' impact, and bomb disposal training evolution.

SPC Christian Sutton, also known as the bone marrow guy, discusses his work in promoting bone marrow donation within the Army. He explains the importance of the bone marrow registry and how it helps individuals with cancer or blood disorders find a match for a life-saving donation. SPC Sutton shares his journey of getting involved in the bone marrow registry and the challenges he faced in establishing a sustainable program within the Army. He emphasizes the need for education and awareness about bone marrow donation and hopes to make the Army the largest source of bone marrow donors in the United States.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

Mike sits down with Eric and Nick, two Special Forces Lieutenant Colonels, to discuss their article on online mentorship and their involvement in the Harding Project. They explore the importance of mentorship in the military and how it can be facilitated through digital platforms. They emphasize the need for a board of advisors rather than relying on a single mentor and highlight the value of feedback and self-improvement. The conversation also touches on the role of NCO mentors and the impact of mentorship on career success.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

Chuck Ritter, Silver Star Recipient, shares his military journey from troubled youth to serving in Special Forces. He discusses struggles in basic training, a harrowing mission in Afghanistan, and surviving an IED attack. Chuck emphasizes mental health awareness, the impact of combat, and the value of education and mentorship. He reflects on humility, confidence, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.

Luke Whitwell, a Cadet at Florida State University, shares his journey towards joining the military and his decision to pursue a career in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Luke's upbringing in a military town and his family's military background influenced his interest in the military. He initially joined Army ROTC out of curiosity and gradually developed a passion for it. Luke highlights the competitive nature of the EOD branch and the rigorous selection process. He expresses his excitement for commissioning and attending Chemical Corps school before eventually transitioning to EOD school. Luke recommends the military to those who enjoy a team-oriented environment and value the sense of community it offers.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

The podcast features Michael Grinston, 16th Sergeant Major of the Army and CEO of Army Emergency Relief. They discuss AER's mission, expanding to National Guard, variety of assistance offered, and leadership's role in suicide prevention. Grinston emphasizes AER's commitment to helping soldiers in need.

Rob Evans, the creator of Hots and Cots, discusses the concept and impact of his app that allows service members to review their living and dining facilities. The conversation covers the inspiration behind Hots and Cots, the 2023 Government Accountability Office report on barracks, and the accountability and responsibility for barracks issues. Rob also shares positive outcomes from the app, the expansion to other facilities, and the importance of anonymous feedback. The discussion highlights the Army's focus on improving quality of life and the role of culinary specialists.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!

In this episode, Mike sits down with Andy, also known as the MEDPROs Center of Excellence on Twitter, to discuss his military career and leadership philosophy. Andy shares his experiences of joining the military at a young age and serving during the Global War on Terror. He also opens up about his struggles with PTSD and the importance of seeking behavioral health help. Andy emphasizes the need for senior leaders to promote an environment that encourages soldiers to prioritize their mental health. He also discusses the benefits of engaging with soldiers on social media and empowering subordinates in leadership roles.Mike is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officer in the Army. Prior to commissioning, he served as an enlisted Soldier for 10 years. He is an advocate for mental health and taking care of the force. You can follow him on X @EODHappyCaptain and Instagram @EODHappyCPT   Thank you for listening! Be sure to follow along for new episodes and leave a review!