Cleared Hot

xNormal Friday programming today, some real-world challenges submitted by listeners. 1.  A father reflects on losing his cool with his kids in a chaotic Costco moment and seeks advice on managing stress and anger under pressure.  2. A jiu-jitsu practitioner questions his skill level and gym promotion practices—wondering if he's ahead of the curve or just a product of attendance-based promotions. 3. A young federal law enforcement officer opens up about the mental toll of confronting humanity's worst while grappling with the decision to start a family

Chris Skates is a man whose life journey is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of storytelling. Starting as a coal plant worker for 30 years, Chris harbored a dream of becoming a writer, keeping a journal of short stories since the 1980s. His persistence paid off when he published a heartfelt story about his grandfather in 2000, leading to over 200 published pieces and a career that took him from the coal mines to the corridors of political power. Chris shares how he wrote his way out of the plant to become an advisor and speechwriter for Governor Matt Bevin of Kentucky, and eventually penned speeches and tweets for President Donald Trump. But his journey took a harrowing turn in 2020 when he collapsed on a D.C. sidewalk and was diagnosed with the deadliest form of leukemia. Defying medical odds, Chris not only survived but was dubbed "the toughest SOB" by his oncologist at Johns Hopkins. Chris shares the inspiration behind his latest book, Moonshine Over Georgia, a riveting account of his grandfather's fight against the deadly moonshine epidemic during and after Prohibition. Armed with unparalleled courage and tracking skills, his grandfather was a legendary Revenue Agent who, according to a 93-year-old moonshiner he once arrested, "shut down the whiskey business pretty much by himself." Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

We return to our Andy Vs. Michael series, but first, we open with a discussion on the ginger's first trip outside of the United States, and his unwillingness to hit on any Italian women. We (mostly me) have decided to solicit for help from the audience, please submit any and all suggestions for Michael's companion here: sheltonm204@gmail.com The remainder of our episode was the traditional A V M format, discussing some politics, current events, social commentary, and just general jackassery. Enjoy Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Bill Thompson served 21 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer Four, specializing in Special Missions and technology development for the Department of Defense. He founded Spartan Forge, an AI-driven hunting tool that applies military intelligence methods to enhance hunting effectiveness. Bill is a lifelong hunter dedicated to conservation and ethical practices, as well as an active supporter of the Boot Campaign, which aids veterans through health and wellness initiatives. https://spartanforge.ai/ Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Normally scheduled Friday Q and A for today: 1. First, a listener's concern about a controversial statement: "I love killing people." What are the realities of combat, and what does such a declaration truly mean within the context of military service and its psychological impact.  2. Guidance to a young man wrestling with the stigma of quitting. After leaving Army training just weeks before completion, he's now engaged and considering a career in law enforcement. What are some strategies to overcome self-doubt and rebuild confidence to face new challenges head-on. 3. An ethical dilemma faced by a government employee who's discovered a covert plan that could unjustly harm his manager's career just weeks before retirement. Torn between protecting his own position and doing what's right, he seeks advice on how to proceed without repeating past mistakes. Check out the newest Cleared Hot Gear here: https://shop.clearedhotpodcast.com/  

Andrew Milburn, a retired Marine Corps Colonel and former Deputy Commander of Special Operations Command Central, shares riveting insights from his extensive military career. He discusses the complexities of modern warfare and the ethical dilemmas faced in combat. With a focus on leadership, he contrasts effective and toxic styles while recounting personal stories of loss and resilience. Milburn also highlights the evolving dynamics of military training post-combat and the importance of local knowledge in military operations. His reflections illuminate the emotional toll on service members and the ongoing journey of adjusting to life after war.

We will have the normal Friday Q and A, but first, a few words on the debate... Did it matter? Do we know any more about the candidates? Does the format serve the intended purpose? Could we make the format better? Switching gears to normal Friday programming: Embracing Life's Big Changes: A 30-year-old listener is on the brink of several life-changing events—marrying the love of his life, becoming a homeowner, and launching his own land surveying business. How do you navigate these milestones successfully while minimizing missteps along the way? Cross-Border Concerns: An audience member from Eastern Canada raises concerns about gun trafficking and the influence of U.S. gun laws on Canadian crime rates. Citing statistics about firearms from the U.S. being involved in crimes in Ontario, how could changing gun laws help reduce criminal access to weapons? Growing a Passion Project: A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, fire captain, paramedic, and podcaster shares his struggle to expand his podcast's audience and attract guests. Despite positive feedback from listeners, growth has been slow. How can you amplify a message and sustain a passion project?

Larry Turner, a former Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel and current SDPD Community Relations Officer running for mayor of San Diego, shares his insights on leadership and community issues. He discusses the urgent challenges of homelessness and public safety in the city, advocating for assertive, integrated solutions. Turner’s military background influences his perspective on civic engagement and the need for accountability in local governance. He highlights the emotional toll on law enforcement and the importance of collaborative approaches to address the complex issues facing San Diego.

A Marine Infantry veteran shares gripping tales from Helmand province while navigating the complexities of post-military life and relationships. He tackles the question of whether shared hobbies are essential for connection. Meanwhile, a determined police officer wrestles with a fitness crossroads: the intensity of CrossFit versus the discipline of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, exploring how best to stay fit for law enforcement. The discussion wraps up with advice for a father guiding his son on the responsibilities of concealed carry, emphasizing safety and awareness.

Lanny Snodgrass, MD, PhD, is a distinguished psychiatrist, and Department of Defense physician, veteran, and respected authority on military mental health. His impressive career spans over four decades of experience treating military personnel, both active duty and veterans. Dr. Snodgrass has established himself as a leading voice in advocating for the psychological well-being of our nation's heroes. As a civilian psychiatrist, Dr. Snodgrass has devoted much of his career to serving veterans at VA hospitals nationwide. His compassionate care and deep understanding of military personnel's unique challenges have earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. In a remarkable display of dedication, Dr. Snodgrass joined the U.S. Army at 63, becoming the oldest to do so. During his assignment within the Department of Defense and active duty, he provided crucial mental health support to soldiers during the Gulf War and beyond, earning numerous accolades for his tireless efforts. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Snodgrass is a sought-after speaker and consultant on military mental health issues. He has presented his research at international conferences and has been published in numerous prestigious medical journals. With his groundbreaking book, "The Ageless Call to Serve: Rethinking Military Service for a Changing World," Dr. Snodgrass challenges outdated notions about age restrictions in the military. Drawing on his own experiences and the stories of other late-life enlistees, he makes a compelling case for tapping into the vast reservoir of talent and expertise among older Americans who wish to serve their country. Through his work as a psychiatrist, soldier, and author, Dr. Snodgrass is committed to improving mental health support for our military and breaking down barriers to service. His unique perspective, born of decades of dedication and personal sacrifice, makes him an invaluable voice in the ongoing dialogue about the future of our armed forces. Buy The Ageless Call To Serve:  https://www.amazon.com/Ageless-Call-Serve-Rethinking-Military/dp/1636244173/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3E5FBPAJFXAW0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.9HZn22EL8nn2R5k5N_3LqvCIw4RLNHht4p5gRdQ_Mbp9FEs1x7cuhmM_ZYySgK0yTfrhsIBER5HkHbDMWbWM23fbKWMUWlvhjnxGhrKmxsC1xbFjEGK4wGJaLxD4tlRZIXr-jux7trSE7bg1K-BLK5QUYs0UlR4TiMjcsYyMDrQ.935M3gK5g9ZJPC3Xk3YCsfMsVXvrSKnBVKt6UdzOPy0&dib_tag=se&keywords=ageless+call+to+service&qid=1725239715&sprefix=ageless+call+to+servic%2Caps%2C230&sr=8-1