Episode Start Minute 2:10 In this episode, Tyler and Jose bring you a captivating interview with Ben Fortier. Together, they explore the profound experiences that Ben encountered during his time in Fallujah, Iraq, around 2006, and the lasting impact it had on his life. They delve into the depths of his journey, discussing not only the war but also the events and influences that shaped him during his childhood. The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Ben shares his unwavering passion for art, music, and writing. He opens up about his creative journey and how these outlets have played a pivotal role in his post-war life. Join us for an insightful and engaging discussion that delves into the complexities of war, personal growth, and the transformative power of artistic expression. Benjamin Fortier, a multi-talented writer, musician, and technology geek, has embarked on a creative journey that has shaped his artistic identity over the years. From a young age, Benjamin's exceptional authorship caught the attention of his writing mentors, leading to the honor of being named Class Poet by his graduating High School class. His innate talent and passion for storytelling propelled him towards a path of self-expression. In 2009, Benjamin made his mark in the literary world with the release of his debut poetry collection, "The Silent Whispers of Omens." This collection marked the beginning of his exploration of profound themes such as mental health, mysticism, the supernatural, surrealism, and social issues through the captivating medium of poetry. The collection received recognition for its evocative verses and poignant exploration of the human experience. Building on the success of his debut, Benjamin independently released his sophomore poetry collection, "Stones of the Wooded Valley," in 2019. This collection showcased his growth as an artist and demonstrated his unwavering commitment to self-expression. Through his poetry, Benjamin continues to captivate readers, delving into the depths of emotions and creating poignant narratives that resonate with audiences. Beyond his creative pursuits, Benjamin's life is filled with diverse passions and responsibilities. He hails from the northern part of Rhode Island, where he was born and raised. Alongside his writing, Benjamin has delved into the realm of sports photography, capturing moments that reflect the intensity and beauty of athletic endeavors. Furthermore, he has embarked on a healing journey after a combat deployment to the volatile city of Al-Falluja, Iraq, around 2006. This experience, coupled with the impact of the September 11, 2001 events, has shaped his perspective and influenced his creative expression. When not immersed in the world of writing, Benjamin finds solace in the company of his partner Emily and their rescue dog, Princess Peppa Pig, an American Bully. They share their lives with love and care, nurturing their furry companion alongside their own growth and exploration. Benjamin also indulges in his love for hockey, video games, guitar playing, and technology tinkering, finding joy and inspiration in these diverse interests. To explore Benjamin Fortier's captivating works and stay updated on his upcoming projects, visit his website at https://www.benjaminfortier.com/. There, you can delve into his published collections, including "The Silent Whispers of Omens" and "Stones of the Wooded Valley," which showcase his talent for weaving vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes. Additionally, Benjamin shares short fictional memoirs on his website's blog section, allowing readers to immerse themselves in captivating worlds such as the Jolan District and the Al Andalas District, including the intriguing piece titled "The Pizza Slice." Keep an eye out for Benjamin's upcoming book, "Phantoms," which promises to take readers on a gripping exploration of the war in Iraq. Set in 2006 within the infamous Sunni Triangle, "Phantoms" delves into the battles fought in the urban landscapes of cities like Ramadi and Fallujah. It uncovers the thin and opaque battle lines and the lasting scars left on those who experienced the war firsthand. Published by Dead Reckoning Collective, this upcoming release is sure to captivate and enlighten readers. Where you can find Ben's work. Instagram: @Benfo Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benfortier https://www.youtube.com/@UCt0r7AIWyjp2-mnk2_Mz5nA Website: https://www.benjaminfortier.com/ Short fictional memoirs: https://www.benjaminfortier.com/post/stories-from-the-jolan-district https://www.benjaminfortier.com/post/stories-from-the-al-andalas-district-the-pizza-slice Host- Jose Herrera Host-Jose Herrera Editor- Julian P. Seddon Music-Danny Akers

(Lab 2 Begins at Min 4:38) In Lab 2, join Gary Hess, Tyler, and Jose for a profound and powerful exploration of Gary's wartime experiences and his journey out of darkness. Learn about his life mission to lead others towards healing through non-western approaches, such as medical marijuana and psychedelics. This conversation is a game-changer for veterans and trauma communities who no longer have to rely solely on the western model of medicine to find paths to recovery, stability, and post-traumatic growth. Delve into the concepts of balance, alignment, and reconnection as the trio discusses the true nature of trauma – it's not what happens to us, but what remains inside of us. Many veterans never truly make it home, with painful, unprocessed emotions causing disassociation, isolation, and avoidance. This perpetual state of fight or flight can lead to chronic conditions, broken homes, and suffering families. The pharmaceutical strategy, aimed at treating mental and physical conditions, often only suppresses symptoms without addressing the root cause. This can lead to dependency, substance abuse, addiction, and even suicide. With staggering statistics – over 200,000 veterans and service members lost to suicide since 2001 – it's clear that real options for healing are desperately needed. Veterans, Spouses, and Family Members to support this initiative and find the help you or a loved one may need, follow this link: https://www.vahahealth.com/

Episode Begins at Minute 2:18 Join Tyler and Jose in this engaging episode as they sit down with Ray Funderburk III, a highly respected community leader, retired teacher, and dedicated advocate for students and veterans. As the child of LtCol Ray Funderburk, a decorated Marine, and the father of Maj Sophie Funderburk, a fellow Marine who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, Ray brings a unique perspective to our conversation. Together, we delve into a range of important topics, including mental health, student advocacy, and the current state of affairs. Tyler and Jose are honored to have had the opportunity to speak with Ray, and grateful that he took time out of his busy schedule to share his insights and experiences with us. Semper Fidelis, and much love to all.

Understanding the mechanisms, threat actors, and multi-tiered impacts of the security and operational environment is essential to cultivating strategies of stability and resilience. The 03XX Series Lab provides insight into the mechanics of a meta-modern battlespace by interviewing outliers in the field. Our guests, Mr. Bocker and Mr. Ryan, share their analyses based on their expertise in their respective fields and lived experiences. We are grateful to Mr. Bocker and Mr. Ryan for allowing us access to their insights and taking the time to address the Veteran community and operating force. Semper Fidelis Semper Fidelis Jose Tyler Julian The Beast (From "Sicario") · Jóhann Jóhannsson JFK'S SPEECH AT THE U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY IN WEST POINT, NEW YORK (JUNE 6, 1962) Filmora 12 Pro (Non-Monetized Video) Educational Purposes Only Semper Fidelis Jose Tyler Julian The Beast (From "Sicario") · Jóhann Jóhannsson JFK'S SPEECH AT THE U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY IN WEST POINT, NEW YORK (JUNE 6, 1962) Filmora 12 Pro (Non-Monetized Video) Educational Purposes Only

Episode begins at minute 2:22 In this episode, Tyler and Jose interview Lee Novotny, a United States Army Engineer, and multi-tour Combat Veteran. After serving his country in different capacities, Lee returned home to pick up his old passions in field craft, weapons training, and field testing products. Throughout this episode, we traverse many topics, unfiltered and raw. We appreciate Lee taking time out of his schedule to sit with us and talk shop. Lee Novotny is in the process of crystallizing his craft more formally. His work can be found on Youtube and Instagram under the @Trashfireactual handle. Lee moderates online forums and discussions about field craft, weapons training, handling, and field testing with a diverse group of individuals, from beginners to professionals. He is unfiltered and on point with his craft. If you have any questions regarding weapons, gear, and packing, Lee is the man for the job. https://www.youtube.com/@TrashfireActual/featured @Trashfireactual Instagram

In this episode, Jeremy Stalnecker (CEO) of The Mighty Oaks Foundation and members of The Veterans Resiliency Project discuss faith, resilience, and mental health. Over the past ten months, the founding members of The Veterans Resilience Project, based out of Wilmington, NC, have come together to address the compounding issues within the veteran community in the Cape Fear Region. Today's episode discusses an approach to further reach our veterans. The 03XX Series would like to thank Mr. Stalnecker for dedicating his time and expertise. Please follow the links below and get involved to support the impactful work that he and The Mighty Oaks Foundation are doing. In addition, I would like to thank Mark Mosher for making this connection possible. Mark has been critical to my personal development and continues to set an example by leading from the front. Semper Fidelis, all my love My Brother Tyler could not make this episode as he runs his business; he will be back in the shop in our next episode. https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/ https://www.jeremystalnecker.com/

Tyler and Jose catch up with their Brother Bryan Laney in this episode. Laney shares his love for teaching, its impact on his post-service outlook, and how it pertains to a cycle of meaning, passion, and purpose. I'd like to thank Laney for spending a couple of hours out of the day to share a piece of his life. I don't like to put words in others' mouths, but at the current moment, 2/8 finds itself with the loss of two Marines. Not even a year ago, I received a phone call from Laney, telling me Andrew Swoveland had passed over. Not long after, we both linked up and drove to Indiana to Swove's memorial service. Once there, we met with 2/8 Marines and gave our final respects to Swove. Picking up the pieces after a loss has not been easy, and some of us, more than others, feel that heaviness. I respect Laney because amidst Covid, teaching, and losing his Brother, he is still here making an impact on America's next generation of young citizens. For those out there on the edge, we're still here, and you're not alone. Semper Fidelis Jose Tyler Julian

Episode 36: In this episode, Tyler and Jose interview Josh Vance, a fellow 2/8 Marine, who served in Echo Co. Diving deep into various subjects about life, death, and Operation Khanjar, Josh explains the intricacies of combat, brotherhood, leadership, and lasting implications. We are truly honored and thankful for Josh's service, leadership, and willingness to converse openly about his wartime experiences. Enjoy this episode. Interview begins at Min 1:58 About Josh Vance: Josh Vance is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He served with 2nd Battalion 8th Marines Echo company as third platoon team leader and assistant squad leader. During his time on active duty, he was deployed in active combat operations in Iraq in 2007 and Afghanistan in 2009. Later he volunteered to go to the Republic of Georgia in 2010 on a foreign military training unit to assist and train over 180 Georgian Army soldiers to deploy to Afghanistan. Since his honorable military discharge, he has previously worked as a field service engineer with a medical robotics company and is now an Implementation Project Manager. He is married with two children. Semper Fidelis Tyler Jose Julian

11 years ago, on June 6, 2011, Sgt. Joseph M. Garrison made the ultimate sacrifice. On that day, he saved the lives of his Marines by taking charge as he always did to inspect metallic hits on IEDs. I am honored and privileged to have lived, fought, and learned at Joe's side. So, in keeping tradition with his legacy, I asked Carmen Medina and Dr. Mossbridge if they could take some time out of their schedule to sit with Tyler and me to discuss their life experiences. And the current mental health battle within the operations and the Veteran community. Long has the suicide epidemic cast its shadow over our lives and too long has it decreased our ranks. Hermanos, y Hermanas don't lose faith. Episode 35: In this episode, Tyler and Jose sit down with Carmen Medina and Dr. Mossbridge to discuss mental health, leadership, unconditional love, and the complex overlays that tether a life together. To skip introduction go to Min:1:58 Carmen Medina is a former CIA Deputy Director of Intelligence. A 32-year veteran of the Intelligence Community, she is also the author of Rebels at Work: A Handbook for Leading Change from Within. You can find Carmen's work at the following sites. https://www.rebelsatwork.com/. Rebels at Work: A Handbook for Leading Change from Within https://www.amazon.com/dp/1491903953/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_907D5X1GK5ND1GMJYS6C Dr. Mossbridge is the executive director of The Institute for Love and Time (TILT), a fellow at the Institute of Noetic Sciences, and an associated professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies. Her research focuses on how time works, how events in time are perceived by our unconscious and conscious minds, and the power of unconditional love to positively influence human lives. You can find Dr. Mossbridge's work at the following sites. https://loveandtime.org/ https://www.timemachine.love/

In this episode, Tyler and Jose interview Sergio Cepeda (Doc). Sergio was attached to 2/8 Golf Co. from 2007-2010. In this conversation, Sergio shares his origins story and his journey into the U.S. Navy to become a Greenside Corpsman. We learn about the nuances of traversing the rituals of earning an FMF Pin, the fleet, and his transition to Blue Side Navy, where he began his transformation into becoming the best version of himself and eventually a firefighter. Sergio also shares his passion and best practices for dealing with life after the war by remaining physically fit and maintaining relationships with fellow veterans. Finally, we thank Sergio for taking time out of his day to spend with his fellow brothers and keeping the tradition of Semper Fidelis to country, community, and brothers.