Permission To Speak Freely (Damon Leggins and Andamo McCullough)

On this episode, Damon and Damo are joined by Alana Abernethy. She is a poet, Amazon bestselling author, journalist, United States Naval Academy graduate, and just a super dope person overall. The guys met her while she was serving a Department Head tour for two different departments on their last ship. They discuss everything from dealing with major health issues while still trying to operate at the highest professional levels as possible to the relationship between a Departmental LCPO and a Department Head. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this Episode:

Keep up with Alana Abernethy:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/alanamabernethy/

Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/alanamabernethy

Alana's Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/Alana-M.-Abernethy/e/B0865T9T1C%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Damo opens this episode addressing his recent issues with trying to get his Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) completed. Damon’s #DoBetter shines a light on the lack of the “teamwork” aspect that he’s witnessed during his recent ship visits. The guys discuss the importance of choosing the right mentor as opposed to finding someone that agrees with everything that you say. What are the pros and cons to choosing a mentor that’s in the same division as you? The guys play catch up, discussing Damon’s schedule as an assessor and Damo’s “Retirement Ceremony Uniform Mix Up.” Do you know how many ribbons you should have on your ribbon rack? If so, how do you know? Damo asks Damon a few “Integrity Questions.” Question No. 1: Have you ever ducked out of colors? Question No.2: Do you have any qualifications that you know you didn’t earn? The conversation leads Damo to reflect on the time he earned his Letter of Instruction (LOI). Congratulations to all our Reservist that made Senior Chief and Master Chief! Have you ever heard of a Spiritual/Non-Religious Chaplin? The guys haven’t either; they discuss. A former Navy Officer who was executed for the murder a junior Sailor will have his remains removed from Arlington National Cemetery. Our “Heroes” for this week is a Navy Search and Rescue team who that saved a snowmobiler in Washington. How do you prioritize? Damo discusses his theory about conversations. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

FY24 Navy Reserve E8 and E9 Advancement Selection Boards - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23085.txt?ver=DQa9IaaQ4edUDtdzy-8NfA%3d%3d

Sailor’s Killer To Be Removed from Arlington - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/04/12/sailors-killer-to-be-removed-from-arlington-thanks-to-new-law/

Hero of the Week:

Search and Rescue Team saves Snowmobiler - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/04/07/navy-search-and-rescue-team-saves-snowmobiler-in-washington/

Book of the Week:

I Don’t Want to Talk About It (Terrence Real) - https://terryreal.com/product/i-dont-want-to-talk-about-it/

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

If you’re a veteran and are experiencing post traumatic stress disorder, please visit:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

If you are having suicidal ideation and require immediate support please call: 1-800-273-8255

**Trigger Warning** This episode includes very specific detailed commentary about death, PTSD, and acts of terror onboard a US Naval vessel. This episode is the direct account from a Sailor who was stationed onboard the USS Cole during the terrorist attack in 2000. As vital as this history is for today, please be advised that some of this may be hard to listen to and digest. 

On this episode, Damon and Damo are joined by ITCM Amaury Ponciano who was an E1 stationed on the USS Cole (DDG-67) on October 12, 2000. This was the day that the ship was attacked by terrorist suicide bombers, leaving 17 Sailors deceased, another 37 wounded, and tore a forty by sixty foot hole in the ship’s hull.  ITCM reflects on his early days in America, the Navy, and on the ship before that fateful day. Masterchief gives a real time account of his experience on the day of the attack and how he initially responded. There is some discussion about divine intervention and purpose. The fellas discuss the power of understanding your purpose in the moment. Damon highlights the importance of damage control and engineering casualty control. ITCM discusses life after the USS Cole, adjusting to a new normal and living with PTSD. The trio chop it up about the CPO Season, mentors, boat boos, and not taking history for granted. These and more topics are discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More Information From This Episode:

Hero of The Week:

Sergeant Darryl S. Cole

https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/darrell-s-cole

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Front Burner: Al Qaeda’s Attack on the USS Cole (Kirk S. Lippold, USN, Retired CDR)

https://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/titles/kirk-lippold/front-burner/9781610392341/

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

**TRIGGER WARNING**

Depending on your life experiences, this episode may contain topics that have an emotional affect on you. We didn’t get too deep into details, but some of the conversations in this episode deal with domestic violence, abuse, and mental health conditions. Listen at your own discretion.

About Our Guest:

Charles “Chip” Huth is a retired executive commander of the the Kansas City Missouri Police department with 30-years of law enforcement experience. He led an internationally-recognized Tactical Enforcement Team for a decade and has planned, coordinated and executed over 2500 high-risk tactical operations. He is a licensed national defensive tactics trainer, a court-certified police practices expert, and the state of Missouri’s defensive tactics subject matter expert.

Chip currently serves a senior consultant for The Arbinger Institute.  He is an adjunct professor for the University of Missouri—Kansas City and serves as a consultant for the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office. He was recognized as the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association’s Trainer of the Year in 2020, and is a member of the National Tactical Officers Association.

Chip is the President and CEO of CDH Consulting L.L.C., serving international law enforcement, military, and corporate clients. He is the past-president of the National Law Enforcement Training Center, a not-for-profit corporation delivering effective training to the international law enforcement, corrections, security and military communities.

Chip has 35-years of experience in the martial arts, with a background in competitive judo and kickboxing. He is an accomplished author and co-wrote “Unleashing the Power of Unconditional Respect-Transforming Law Enforcement and Police Training,” a text book used in promotional processes and graduate programs. Chip is a veteran of the United States Army.

About This Episode:

Damon, Damo, and Tisha talk with Chip about his turbulent childhood and how he went from sleeping is station-wagons to becoming a senior consultant for The Arbinger Institute, a recognized world-leader in improving organizational culture, conflict transformation, and changing mindset. Our most personal episode to date; everyone shares stories about their past, forgiveness, and dealing with issues with fathers. Chip discusses how the “Outward Mindset” changed his life and how it affects everything from professional to personal relationships. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

To Keep up with “Chip” and find out more about the Arbinger institute:

Arbinger’s Website: www.arbinger.com

Chip’s Email: Chuth@arbinger.com.

Chip’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chip_Huth

For the Book: Unleashing the Power of Unconditional Respect: Transforming Law Enforcement and Police Training (Jack Cowell / Charles “Chip” Huth): https://www.amazon.com/Unleashing-Power-Unconditional-Respect-Transforming/dp/0367864487/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=UpRys&content-id=amzn1.sym.22f5776b-4878-4918-9222-7bb79ff649f4&pf_rd_p=22f5776b-4878-4918-9222-7bb79ff649f4&pf_rd_r=141-8466750-3997215&pd_rd_wg=HOzkr&pd_rd_r=3354873b-e6c3-414d-8373-a2253d24e4a3&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk

“The Importance of Mindset in Policing” | Chip Huth | Tedx Talks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_29TS6jjsA&t=26s&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” (Produced by Lim0)

About This Episode:

Tisha and Damo are joined by Buddy Shorey. Buddy is a military veteran, husband, father, and “dog dad.” Buddy also has an amazing story. He details his personal growth story of overcoming an addiction to prescription pills which ultimately resulted in him being separated from military service  — to where he is today. He reflects on past mistakes, near death experiences, and finding the strength to self report. He talks about his best/worst experiences in the Navy, what keeps him grounded, and what he’s “addicted” to today. All of this and so more more a this episode that you do not want to miss. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To get in contact with Mr. Shorey:

Instagram: @la_shorey14

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

After discussing scams and their warning signs, Damon, Damo, and Tisha debate whether the glorification of liberty can potentially hurt the outlook of Sailors.   If you want to watch/hear full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, check out our merchandise, or connect with us on social media, please visit our website. https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Damon and Damo are joined by LT. Joseph Soloman II. The trio begin the episode by honoring the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. They discuss how they believe that MLK would want us to celebrate his holiday. They discuss Lt. Solomon’s life before, during, and his plans after his career in the Navy. From his fitness journey to being one of two black Sailors in dive school, to not always feeling like “himself” in the Wardroom, and understanding and adapting to change by not attaching yourself to any role. As fellow “Cerealphiles,” Lt. Solomon and Damo have a quick conversation about top 5 cereals. Lt. Solomon discusses his fitness transformation and his approach to helping other people shed weight both physically and mentally. They also discuss Joseph’s podcast, ‘Just Keep Livin.’ Be sure to check that podcast out as well. These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Get ‘Permission To Speak Freely Merchandise’ here: https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/

Links for Lt. Joseph Solomon II:

Social Media:

Personal & Business

IG: https://www.instagram.com/kingsolo_1983/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/joseph.solomoon

Website: www.mbstransformfit.com

Just Keep Livin’ Podcast

IG: https://www.instagram.com/just_keep_livin_podcast/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/JustKeepLivinPodcast

Website: www.justkeeplivinpodcast.com

Damo’s Book Suggestion: 

The Body Keeps the Score (by. Bessel Van Der Kok, M. D.)

https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/resources/the-body-keeps-the-score

Movie Reviewed (Television Series): 

Band of Brothers Ep.2: Day of Days

https://www.hbo.com/band-of-brothers/episodes/2-day-of-days

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Did you miss us? We missed you. The guys are back! Permission to Speak Freely kicks off Episode 10 with Damon and Damo discussing every event that transpired since Episode 9 was recorded. They discuss what happened with the “2020 Wrap Up” episode. Damon talks about his very close to home bout with COVID-19. Damo gets on his self-proclaimed “soapbox” and discusses everything that has happened to him from pregnancy to miscarriage, to quarantine, to leaving his command. This episode is very personal and covers a lot of the real life that has been happening since the last episode aired. The guys have a small conversation about competition. What are your thoughts on competition? They close out this heartfelt conversation by touching on Navy Seals and issues with monetization of trade secrets. Again, the PTSF Podcast is so happy to be back and hope that you enjoy Episode 10! 

Links and more information:

Dollar Art Club:

https://www.dollarartclub.art/

SEALS Cashing in on the brand: 

https://special-ops.org/regular-seals-about-famous-navy-seals-who-cash-in-on-the-brand-post-service/

DOD Coronavirus Spotlight:

https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/DOD-Response-Ti-/

Maintenance of Physiological Health in Military Operations:

https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/649005p.pdf

Audiobook of the Week:

Autobiography of Malcolm X: As told by Alex Haley (Narrated by Laurence Fishburne)

https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Autobiography-of-Malcolm-X-Audiobook/B084YVRDJX

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

All smoke no gas! We are on b.s. all episode! To our sophisticated listeners, go ahead and skip this one. We are having some fun on this episode. Damo checks in with Damon and Tisha to see about their recent activities on the internet. The trio discusses a clip from a recent episode of the Joe Budden Podcast about the Navy being seen as the “soft” branch of the military. Next up, those estranged family members that ask to borrow money every time they see you. Being in the military does not make us millionaires. Shout out to all of our new followers on TikTok. PTSF had a mini moment in the comments. Damon owes Aviation Department an explanation. We hope it’s accepted. We do not want any smoke with Aviation! Damo highlights the “one guy who works in the ship’s office.” Much love to the ladies, these are all jokes. Damon went to a Lil Wayne concert but Lil Wayne didn’t. Damon tells exactly how he feels about this. Damo addresses an irresponsible article that was shared on the PTSF Facebook page. Are “No Shave Chits” unfair? Is it easier for a black Sailor to get a chit for PFB than a white Sailor? Have you ever been told by your Chief that you wouldn’t get in much trouble at NJP and you got the book thrown at you? Everyone shares their “DRB” stories. The Navy recently welcomed 'Sage', an operational stress control dog, aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford for deployment. The story of Master Chief Charlie gets highlighted. Damon has an issue with LCS manning. Is there any value in having a command motorcycle safety program in today’s time? What’s going on in schools these days? The team tackles another round of “questions from listeners.” Damo details a few things that came up in a recent leadership panel that he sat on. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Damon’s Blenders:

You can’t be serious, but if you are, hit his facebook page up. No we aren’t giving you the link.

Operational Stress Control Dog - https://www.wsaz.com/2023/05/08/uss-gerald-r-ford-welcomes-aboard-therapy-dog-during-deployment/

Navy Captain Fired/ Goat Story - https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3071209/Navy-captain-loses-job-GOAT-kept-board-missile-cruiser-chained-stern-2-600-mile-voyage.html

Damo’s Book Suggestion:

Make Your Bed (Admiral William H. McRaven) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31423133-make-your-bed

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon and Damo discuss "Diversity" and what it means to them. 

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

With Tisha on vacation, Damon and Damo hold it down with a few critical topics. The conversation starts with Damo discussing his experience as a Resident Advisor living in the barracks. The guys provide updates on their personal lives and quickly get into the MCPON’s Call to Action to Chief Petty Officers addressing “Warfighting Competency.” A US Soldier, Pvt. Travis King, fled from South Korea to North Korea and the question is why. Who does that? Recruits are now enjoying concerts at Great Lakes? Damon’s “Do Better”: People with big trucks that are scared to drive them. Who knew the guys would ever talk about feedback reports? Quotas for selection to CPO are out. Best of luck to all to all who are eligible. NAVADMIN 168/23 just dropped accompanied by gripes, cheers, and a very funny social media back n’ forth. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

MCPON Call To Action: Warfighting Competency - https://www.navy.mil/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=zl2V3pCbyY4%3d&portalid=1

Pvt. Travis King - https://people.com/who-is-travis-king-american-soldier-detained-north-korea-7563138

NAVADMIN 168/23 - https://navadmin-viewer.github.io/?type=NAVADMIN&year=2023&number=168

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Up From Slavery (Booker T. Washington) - https://www.amazon.com/Up-Slavery-Dover-Thrift-Editions/dp/0486287386

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Welcome to the wonderful world of Permission to Speak Freely. In and out of topics on this episode, Damon and Damo tackle the topic of what goes through the minds of Sailors when they get informed about a short notice DESRON visit. They move on to discuss Top Gun 2. Damo highlights one of the weirdest weeks in his life. Damon holds DRB on Damo after Damo confesses a wrongdoing. Somehow projectile vomit is the climax in this story.  What’s a joke really? Straying away from naval topics, the guys discuss T.I. running on the stage to stop a lady comedian from making a joke about sexual assault allegations that were made against him. They also discuss cancel culture and the grammy’s. This conversations moves toward what happens when the Sailor of the Year gets in trouble after receiving the recognition. NC1 Erica Martinez checks in to discuss the Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy (DPAP) Program. Hero of the week and Damo’s book are discussed. These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and More Information From This Episode:

Hero of the Week - Fireman Second Class Telesforo De La Cruz Trinidad - https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/2912

Gino’s (Best Onion Rings EVER!!!!) - http://www.ginosgiant.com/

Damo’s Book of the Week: 

The Measure of a Man (A Spiritual Autobiography) (Sidney Poitier) - https://www.amazon.com/Measure-Man-Spiritual-Autobiography-Oprahs/dp/0061357901

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

**LISTEN TO EPISODE 104 BEFORE LISTENING TO THIS*

Please forgive us for any issues, however, the final 12 minutes was cut off of Episode 104 (Feat. Captain Gervy Alota) and we want to make sure you hear it. Sorry for any confusion. 

On this episode: How Damo got scammed out of $200 (2:31), the guys discuss the recent ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline (13:46), panic buyers, and hoarders. The new DOD guidance for wearing a mask on base (23:30) and the latest changes from the CDC are discussed. Will you turn away a costumer for not wearing a mask? J. Cole released his sixth studio LP, The Off Season (34:30) and Damon and Damo spoke about the album briefly. The guys campaign for all the streaming companies to figure out a way for deployed military members to be able to still enjoy subscription services after 30 days of no Wi-Fi (36:06). Damon and Damo give their reflections on the recent Extremism stand down (42:00). Can one demographic make any decisions or have any discussions regarding a multi-demographic mass (53:56)? Why it’s important that words like ‘Faddish’ are being removed from grooming standards and policies (1:02:10), board prep (1:07:32). Damon responds a a listener question (1:15:39) regarding mental health and issues with care providers. The guys discuss Kwame Brown latest internet onslaught (1:26:15) and the affects of dealing with mental health issues for long term periods. The two close the podcast with a lengthy discussion about Micheal B. Jordan’s latest movie, Without Remorse, and where they currently see him in the Hollywood pecking order or leading actors (1:30:13) and MUCH MORE! Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Exclusive PTSF Merchandise:

https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/

From This Episode

Links and more information:

DOD Lifts Mask Mandate:

https://www.defenseone.com/policy/2021/05/dod-lifts-mask-mandate-fully-vaccinated-personnel/174044/

CDC New Mask Guidline:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.cnbc.com/amp/2021/05/20/cdc-mask-guidelines-could-actually-increase-risk-of-spreading-covid-at-work-and-in-public-scientists-say.html

Extremist Training:

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2021/03/22/some-troops-disappointed-by-check-the-block-extremism-stand-downs-others-laud-commanders/

J. Cole - The Off Season

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/j-cole-the-off-season-1173332/ 

Faddish and other policy changes:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.military.com/daily-news/2021/04/05/navy-deletes-phrases-faddish-and-complement-skin-tone-grooming-regs.html/amp

Selection Boards:

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Boards/Active-Duty-Enlisted/CPO-Selection-Boards/

Kwame Brown Social Media Feuds:

https://nypost.com/2021/05/21/explaining-kwame-browns-multiple-social-media-feuds/ 

Movie Reviewed: Without Remorse

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VFD1Y3B/ref=DVM_US_DL_SL_GO_AST_WOR21%7Cm_HEXV0QNEm_c517627693599_nodl?gclid=CjwKCAjwtJ2FBhAuEiwAIKu19pgHMudjhrqlm4qXNVZPueDQ-lHzYqDGeQi9szoX2tHMb3TSPX_7qRoCBTYQAvD_BwE

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

No Tisha on this one as Damon and Damo start this episode talking about RA duty. Damo has an update on the five year old feedback report that he’s been dealing with. The two discusses their most embarrassing moments as Chiefs, that happened in front of junior Sailors. It’s about time to finally address why you always see Chiefs hanging out at the places that they tell you to stay away from. Do Better - Damon: Taskers with unrealistic timelines. Government travel cards with unrealistic timelines. Damon gets personal when discussing his source of pride. Should SKED, OMMS and RADM be prerequisites to making Chief. A Navy Chief attacks his girlfriend at his promotion dinner. Is the Navy headed in the right direction with mandatory leadership training as a prerequisite before being promoted. The guys answer a question from a listener about CSEL packages and their experiences with the process. The guys finally discuss the relationship between the CPO Mess and the Wardroom. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Florida Navy Chief Punches Girlfriend - https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-navy-chief-drunkenly-punches-girlfriend-3-times-at-his-own-promotion-dinner-deputies-say

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Dichotomy of Leadership (Jocko Willink and Leif Babin) - https://echelonfront.com/books/dichotomy-of-leadership/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon, Damo, and Tish celebrate reaching the 100th episode milestone by reminiscing on the early days of the ‘Permission To Speak Freely’ podcast. Damo gives an update on the baby and upcoming guests. Guess what guys, it’s an election year! Do we care? Do we not care? Who the hell are you voting for anyway? Tisha asks the guys what major life experiences happened to them since starting the podcast. This episode transitions to the Instagram live episode, “Countdown to Episode 100.” On live, The trio starts the conversation wishing fair winds and following seas to the two SEALS that were lost at sea, PO1 Christopher Chambers and PO2 Nathan Gage Ingram. Damo asks Tish why the male Sailors were so upset that the women were able to. get a NAVADMIN changed in less than 24 hours. Damon has another moment in which he is recognized on the pier. Damon provides an update on his career status. What are the top 3 qualities of a leader? The hosts are joined in the live by CDR David Pagan (Executive Officer, USS New York [LPD-21]) to have a short conversation about Executive Officers. They ask him about how he contributes to the ship’s schedule daily. What are the pros and cons of fleeting up to Commanding Officer on a vessel? Have you ever heard of “Rope Yarn” before? CDR Pagan explains. The crew asks the listeners to provide a “Do Better” during the live. How effective is the Transition Assistance Program? How’s Tisha handling retirement? Do Chiefs go overboard with pride swag? Another conversation about beards because you can never talk enough about beards. Who is on your cleaning stations playlist? All of the top enlisted leaders from every branch of the DoD went to the White House to testify about living conditions. What do we hope was discussed? What’s really going on in the Barracks? These and more are covered in this episode of ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Featuring a special guest appearance by CDR David Pagan (XO, USS New York)

Links and more from this Episode:

Lost SEALs Pronounced Dead - https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/navy-identifies-two-seals-lost-sea-raid-later-declared-dead-rcna135076

Episode Artwork:

Elvrich Castane (IG: Castane Arias) - https://www.instagram.com/castanearias/?hl=en

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Surprised by the events that transpired during last night’s Oscars ceremony, Damon and Damo wanted to discussed a few of their initial thoughts. Will slaps Chris, Will wins Oscar, Damo's sick, is a prank a joke? Who knows. 

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Damo and Tish have the helm on this one, opening the episode up with a discussion on some of the latest uniform policy changes (NAVADMIN 031/24). One of the major changes is that Sailors can now put their hands in their pockets, but do we really care? Damo reads a message from a Sailor regarding DMAP Phase IV before a deep dive into the new NAVADMIN (017/24) and what it means for Sailors. Is this directly connected to the new OBLISERV authorization changes? A confidential reporting option for sexual harassment has been added to the equal opportunity policy (NAVADMIN 022/24). Damo checks off another line on his “Navy Bucket List” by attending his command’s holiday party. Tisha got a job! Tish is looking for some women interested in doing a panel for Women’s History Month to discuss the life and times of women in the armed forces. MIa Khalifa crashes out again with a statement about how being in the army is worse than being on Onlyfans. Single-parent veterans are struggling to access benefits after completing their military careers. The Air Force is trying to entice retirees to re-enlist for a limited time period, but is it worth it? More Commanding Officers were relieved from their duties last week. Marines claim that there is a limited amount of amphibious vessels to transit troops to areas where they are needed. Service members are encouraged to go off-base for mental health care, however, are they being seen in a timely matter? Do Better: Section Leaders doing too much on duty (Damo), stop trying to do things the “Navy way” as a civilian (Tisha). Stop calling the command to investigate your cheating spouse, we are fighting wars over here. Should men be able to leave deployment for the birth of their children? Should SOY nominees always be previous SOQ recipients? Damo asks a question about tampons. These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

NAVADMIN 031/24 - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24031.txt?ver=MdZk1Rryjsh1saE1hOQezA%3d%3d

NAVADMIN 017/24 - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24017.txt?ver=3hgfVK1f9lqSwrLopvsgEw%3d%3d

OBLISERV Authorization Changes - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Career/Detailing/MyNavyAssignment/MNA%20OBLISERV%20AUTH%20CHGS.pdf?ver=L4_5WX_nAFEMPdsSrPRmxQ%3D%3D

NAVADMIN 022/24 -  Implementation of Confidential Reporting Option for Sexual Harassment - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24022.txt?ver=oE8nDFUEH7ExB23hTh9ozg%3d%3d

MIA khalifa: army is worse than Onlyfans https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12748233/Ex-porn-star-Mia-Khalifa-slammed-repeating-bizarre-claim-army-worse-OnlyFans-selling-body-government.html

Veteran Single Parents- https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1363-6.html and https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2024/01/24/single-parent-vets-struggle-to-access-post-military-benefits/

Air Force trying to get Retirees back - https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2024/02/07/air-force-seeks-retirees-to-come-back-to-active-duty/?fbclid=IwAR3vnm41-L02NdINBKpuYZkk7yp_fzea_3rBwrH3HY3_VHMuaoXWbntXvck_aem_ATVEiUfHs3_vRuOf9J7M2UR-csO51I2Dk9fmlPN3JNqRFcKeTVU9LicAgFj7O5-twXE

Skip the Trip for IDs - https://www.militarytimes.com/pay-benefits/2024/01/19/skip-the-trip-more-military-id-cardholders-can-now-renew-online/

More Commanders Fired - https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/01/24/female-army-colonel-fired-over-sexual-assault-harassment-allegations/ and https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/02/06/navy-fires-commander-of-uss-howard-just-6-months-after-relieving-predecessor-soft-grounding.html?amp

Marines’ claim of limited Amphibious Fleet for deployment.- https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/01/25/top-general-says-theres-shortfall-navy-ships-carry-marines-no-clear-solution-sight.html?amp

Off-Base Mental Healthcare shortfalls - https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/02/07/troops-are-still-waiting-weeks-for-off-base-mental-health-appointments/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damo is solo on this special Father’s Day bonus episode discussing some of his favorite books and how they impacted him as a father, leader, and human. *Clarification: Damo was skipped from the second to the third grade. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

If you are a dedicated fan of 'Permission To Speak Freely' and just love coming here every drop to read the episode notes; please forgive us. We just want you to go into it blind and enjoy the episode (for the most part at least). Of course, we highlight the life and works of Secretary / General / Legend Colin L. Powell. After that it's a tour de force in journalism ranging from dog humping and pooping before the PRT to Damo celebrating his retirement eating edibles with Damon (this is wishful thinking, of course). Ok. That is it. That is all. Please listen to the episode and enjoy! Remember to drop a review. Also, if you take the time out and read these; you're in luck. The first 3 people to send us an email with your shirt size will receive free merchandise on our next "merch" drop. Hint: It's will be sooner than you think. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and more information from this episode:

Hanks Cinnamon Buns

https://hankscinnamonbuns.com/

Isolated Tribe Clothing

https://isolated-tribe.myshopify.com/

Alana M. Abernathy

https://www.alanamabernethy.com/

Books of the Week:

Damo - Between the World and Me (Ta-Nehisi Coates)

https://ta-nehisicoates.com/books/between-the-world-and-me/

Damon - We All Should Be Millionaires (Rachel Rodgers)

https://www.amazon.com/We-Should-All-Be-Millionaires/dp/1400221625

Movie Reviewed:

The Forgotten Battle 

https://www.netflix.com/title/81166791

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Commander Desmond Walker (USS Stout) checked into the pod for a conversation that we’d been waiting to have. In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, they touch on the importance of mental health awareness, going into a very stressful holiday season. They also discuss the disconnect between some Navy policies and their implementation at the command level. Commander Walker discusses his personal experience of joining the Navy and whether his upbringing in Mississippi had an impact on his outlook as an African American Sailor. Damo asks him about any experiences with racism in Mississippi. He discusses his enlisted life, including his deployments and the challenges of being separated from his wife. Cdr. Walker also talks about his transition to becoming an officer and the importance of mentorship and teamwork. He highlights his various assignments and leadership roles, emphasizing the need for empathy and open communication within the command structure. CDR Walker details his leadership philosophy. Damo opens up a discussion on the “us versus them” mentality and the importance of seeing leaders as part of the team. What are the biggest differences between an XO tour and a CO tour? They also touch on the importance of using social media to celebrate and engage with sailors, as well as the different standards of accountability for khaki and junior enlisted personnel. Damo highlights his appreciation for the growth of the podcast’s audience. Are Khaki and junior enlisted Sailors held to different standards when it comes to corrective actions for disciplinary issues? The pod has a convo about the need for leaders to make timely decisions, have difficult conversations, and take appropriate action to maintain discipline and uphold standards. CDR Walker details what a “loss of confidence” means for a Commanding Officer. They also touch on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the Navy and the challenges faced by African-American officers. Cdr. Walker reflects on a mentor who inspired him in his early as an enlisted Sailor. Cdr. Walker honors the hard work of his crew on the USS Stout. He emphasizes the need for transparency, communication, and mentorship in creating a positive and inclusive culture. As a CO, how does he prepare his crew and family for deployment? Cdr. Walker reflects on the mentors and leaders who have influenced his career, from his early days in the Navy to his current command. He highlights the importance of investing in others and the impact that strong leadership can have on personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the need for leaders to see and appreciate the individuality of their team members and to assess their performance based on a known metric. Cdr. Walker concludes by sharing his motivation to continue serving in the Navy and the responsibility he feels to be an example and representation for others. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Cdr. Walker’s Book Recommendations:

The Right to Lead (John C. Maxwell) - https://lifeandleadership.com/book-summaries/maxwell-the-right-to-lead/

Black Officer, White Navy (Reuben Keith Green) - https://www.kentuckypress.com/9781985900295/black-officer-white-navy/

It Worked For Me (Colin Powell) - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/it-worked-for-me-colin-powell?variant=32129897431074

Suicide Prevention Month Resources:

The following resources are available 24/7 for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual support:

  - National Suicide Hotline:

Dial 988

  - Veterans/Military Crisis Line:

Dial 988 (press 1) or Text 838255

  - Psychological Health Outreach Program (PHOP):

1-866-578-PHOP (7467) 

  - Military OneSource:

800-342-9647 / [www.militaryonesource.mil](https://www.militaryonesource.mil)

  - Vet Centers:

877-WAR-VETS (877-927-8387) / [www.vetcenter.va.gov](https://www.vetcenter.va.gov)

  - DON Civilian Employee Assistance Program (DONCEAP):

844-DONCEAP (1-844-366-2327) / [www.magellanascend.com](https://www.magellanascend.com)

  - Local Resources:

Fleet and Family Support Centers, Marine and Family Services, Military Family Life Counselors, chaplains, and your leadership

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

On this episode, Damon and Damo are joined by HTC Joe Volz, the creator of the “Ask The Chief” Facebook group, currently boasting 17,500 subscribers. Two of the page’s administrators, AC1 Jamie Britt and ET3 Reid Smith, also join in on the conversation. They speak about the early days of the page and some of the growing pains in getting it to where it is today. They also get into a few random topics. From the reports of suicide on the USS George Washington to the fragility of respect, the group covers a lot of ground and shares some interesting thoughts and ideas. These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and More Information From This Episode:

Listen to AC1 Britt’s E-14 Podcast: https://e14podcast.com/

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Damon and Damo are joined by CMDCS Aaron Paul. They off talking about the upcoming season (of course). Not just the football season, it’s about to be some new Chiefs in the mess! Congratulations to the FY-23 Selectees! They chop it up with Aaron about his entry into the Navy and the two times that he considered separating. Another installment of the “Do Better” segment about waivers, doing “too much” to go viral, and communication. Damo asks Aaron for a non-incriminating regret of his. This leads to a conversation about CFLs and the responsibility of owning your role. DRB is discussed and the guys give their opinions on their different approaches to the process. Damo briefly discusses Navy Seal recruit, Kyle Mullen who recently passed away following “Hell Week.” You know we had to discuss Serena Williams. Congratulations on a great career. Who really should be taking out the trash? The guys discuss a recent post on social media about taking out the trash for the TRIAD. Th guys ask Aaron about lessons learned in his career and the process to become a Command Senior Enlisted Leader. These and more topics are discussed on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this Episode

Hero of the Week: MasterChief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Edward C. Byers - https://www.navy.mil/MEDAL-OF-HONOR-RECIPIENT-EDWARD-C-BYERS-JR/

Kyle Mullen Story - https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2022/09/navy-seals-kyle-mullen-death-investigation.html

Aaron’s Book Suggestions:

The Death of Expertise (Tom Nichols) 

https://www.amazon.com/Death-Expertise-Campaign-Established-Knowledge/dp/0190469412

Willful Blindness (Margaret Heffernan) 

https://www.amazon.com/Willful-Blindness-Ignore-Obvious-Peril/dp/0802777961

Ego is the Enemy (Ryan Holiday)

http://egoistheenemy.com/

We Return Fighting (National Museum of African American History) (Edited by Kinshasa Holman Conwill)

https://www.amazon.com/We-Return-Fighting-Shaping-Identity/dp/1588346722

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Steve Jobs (Walter Isaacson)

Steve Jobs: Isaacson, Walter: 9781501127625: Amazon.com: Books

Movie Review of the Week:

TV Series:  The Terminal List | Ep 4 | Detachment 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HYNH8TK/?ref=DVM_US_DL_SL_GO_AST_TLIST22_mkw_sM0XZ351s-dc&mrntrk=pcrid__slid__pgrid_1239149879340397_pgeo_90209_x__ptid_kwd-77447083494618:loc-190

PLEASE BE ADVISED: This episode starts with a discussion of very sensitive topics that can be traumatic to your listening experience. Please fast forward as you see fit.

Damon and Damo return from a three week hiatus and immediately start with a conversation about the massacre in Uvalde, Texas at Robb Elementary School which resulted in the loss of life for 19 children and two adults. They discuss mental health, bullying, and their opinions on gun laws in the United States. They reflect on the targeted killing of African Americans in Buffalo, New York. Rest In Peace to actor, Ray Liotta, who passed away in his sleep on May 26, 2022. What is going on in Fort Hood? The guys discuss Sgt. Jewel Scott’s accusations against her leadership and Fort Hood’s current reputation. The CNO recently made changes to his suggested reading lists, resulting in the removal of the “woke” books that were previously listed. What is “woke” anyway and why does it feel like a “dirty” word now? After all this talking, the guys finally catch up on what’s been going on in their personal lives. Damon’s son, Mark made a surprise visit to the family (that wasn’t much of a surprise), Damon reacts. The Navy’s number of deserters is currently higher than every other branch of the military and higher than it’s been in four years. This conversation develops into a debate about contractual obligations. Damo recaps the weight of an audiogram for an aging engineer in the fleet. Congratulations to all of the newly appointed SCPOs and MCPOs. Top Gun 2 is finally here! Damo takes a deep dive into the world of Tom Cruise and how he believes this new film will impact Hollywood and the Navy. Would you let your team fail to prove how important your role is? Damon speaks about the absence of senior leadership in the positions that matter. These and more topics are discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Listen to us on the E-14 podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/e-14-podcast-has-permission-to-speak-freely/id1549635265?i=1000564406161

Links and More Information From This Episode:

80 Minutes of Horror at Robb Elementary School - https://www.cnn.com/2022/05/29/us/uvalde-texas-elementary-school-shooting-week/index.html

Gunman Kills 10 at Buffalo Supermarket - https://www.nytimes.com/live/2022/05/14/nyregion/buffalo-shooting

Sgt. Jewel Scott / Fort Hood - https://shinemycrown.com/fort-hood-responds-to-sgt-jewel-scotts-allegations-she-was-arrested-and-tormented-on-base/

CNO Removes Woke Books - https://gcaptain.com/gilday-removes-woke-books-cno-reading-list/

Increase in Navy Deserters - https://www.npr.org/2022/05/21/1100512920/navy-deserters-more-than-doubled-indicator-of-bigger-problem

Who Was the real Charles Monroe King? - https://www.thefocus.news/movies/charles-monroe-king-journal-for-jordan/

Damo’s Book of the Week:

BMF: The Rise and Fall of Big Meech and the Black Mafia Family

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780312674151

Movie Reviewed:

A Journal For Jordan (Directed by Denzel Washington) 

https://www.sonypictures.com/movies/ajournalforjordan

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Damo and Tisha are joined by AS1 Justin Kramer. They open the episode with a conversation about the ups and downs of social media. Damo breaks down his extroverted introversion. Is perception really reality, or is that just an overused adage? An AS is a pretty rare rate in the Navy, and Damo wonders if it was Justin’s first choice. What does an AS do? AS1 did a tour with the Blue Angels and detailed his experience. What is the margin for error for a Blue Angel? AS1 details his “hardest day” as a Blue Angel. How does an AS with the Blue Angels compete for evaluations? After the Blue Angels, Justin did an IA tour in Bahrain; he broke down the mission. Justin was in Bahrain during the “Day of Rage,” which doubles as one of his worst experiences in the Navy. AS1 details his initial reporting and check-in experiences on the USS Bonhomme Richard (BHR) in 2019. He also gives us a new term: T.E.D.S - Typical Enlisted Dudes. AS1 just so happened to be in the off-going duty section the morning of the fire on the BHR. He played a role in the firefighting efforts as a Team Leader and details his first-hand experiences while attacking the casualty. He describes the physical, mental, and emotional impact that this experience had on him. How was the command climate affected by the fire? How did the command deal with the aftermath of how it played out in the media? AS1 talked about wanting to stay on the ship until she decommissioned. AS1 details living with PTSD, the support of his family, and the therapy he’s been receiving. AS1 Kramer gives his “Do Better.” Justin asks Damo and Tish a couple of questions. Damo introduces a game to AS1. Don’t miss this packed episode, and be sure to follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode:

Book of the Week:

Speak Like a CEO (Suzanne Bates) https://www.porchlightbooks.com/product/speak-like-a-ceo-secrets-for-commanding-attention-and-getting-results--suzanne-bates/isbn/9781260117486

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!

It’s our anniversary! Two years of ‘Permission to Speak Freely.’ Thanks everyone for your continued support and love! We are definitely taking a shot, so get your glasses ready!

Damon and Damo begin the episode by shouting out the Marines. Happy 247th birthday Marines! If you’ve been listening a while, you know how the guys feel about Veteran’s Day deals. They quickly get into to all the woes of these “so-called” discounts. They highlight a few offers and critique them. What are “23 Things Veterans may carry for life:? The guys discuss. They also toe the line of being cancelled with their “coffee mug” opinions. “Everyday Heroes” are highlighted. A Marine Corps Drill Instructor may be charged in the death of a recruit. Should he be charged? Damon and Damo reflect on some of their favorite moments from last year. The movie “Purple Hearts” is discussed at length. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this Episode

Rate and Read off Veterans Day deals - https://www.military.com/veterans-day/restaurants-veterans-day-military-discounts.html

23 Things Veterans may carry for life - https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2022/05/12/23-things-veterans-may-carry-for-life/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_mct&fbclid=IwAR1KKUGr-q0ien6xdIWq5XnL7xmsRmnV-DwY91BFhabzogizuXlYI0HQ92w

Marine Drill Instructor may be charged in recruits death - https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2022/11/09/marines-considering-charging-drill-instructor-in-2021-recruit-death/

Heroes of the Week:

Servicemembers Save Couple From Burning House - https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-army/2022/10/24/soldier-and-airman-save-couple-from-burning-house/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_nt

Navy Sailors to the Rescue - https://www.stripes.com/branches/navy/2022-11-09/navy-sailors-medals-rescue-naples-7978821.html?fbclid=IwAR1j5JdZakSOALLBDdB7M8c9Z_vOcIpgziK6FzGOvkR-WZpoxYhbDzFWEnI

Movie Review:

Purple Hearts

https://www.netflix.com/title/81043665

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

On this episode, the trio are joined by active-duty Yeoman Second Class Petty Officer Alonzo “Lonzo” Robinson for a conversation about culture and some differences between Senior and junior enlisted Sailors. Veteran’s Day deals are briefly covered. Congratulations to all Sailors of the Year, but why is Damo so tight? A discussion around the privileges of rank comes up. Should rank have its privileges? YN2 discusses his observations regarding if junior Sailors trust senior leadership. This leads to a conversation about “old school” discipline. Damo asks what are junior Sailors looking for from Senior Leadership. The dynamics of providing correction and being corrected are explored. Lonzo details the negative connotation associated with the phrase, “let’s pull out the instruction.” Were you actually singled out or did you single yourself out? What’s a “Well, Technically” person and how can they impact standards? Lonzo’s “Do Better”: FCPOs that wait until the very last minute to get their records together. Damon asks Lonzo about the cultures that he’s experience during his time in the Navy. Tisha gets a personal with YN2, learning about his life and the reasons why he chose to join the military. YN2 discussed the regulation that he would get rid of if he had the ability to. Detailing Marketplace Assignment Policy (DMAP) is discussed as well as the 30 month time-in-service policy. YN2 turns the tables around and asks Damon, Damo, and Tisha some questions. Damo shares his internal conflict when it comes to initiative vs opportunity. Lonzo asks the podcast what can junior Sailors do for them. The "evaluation conversation" is revisited again. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.  

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast  

Links and more from this Episode:

Keep up with YN2 Robinson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/itslonzo_playa/

Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

[Recorded on 29 October 2024] It’s our anniversary, y’all! Thanks to the best listeners in the world for helping us make it to 4 years! The guys start the episode by defining and discussing the phrase “waiting it out” in the Navy. Damo recalls his experience “meeting” the CNO. Since checking into the carrier, Damon notices some changes that he’s compelled to discuss. Damo discusses a recent Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). Does DRB still work? Would you hold it down for the homie and take an NJP award? After standing CMC for a 96, Damon has a newfound respect for Command Master Chiefs. The guys discuss why it’s so hard to correct small things like uniform infractions nowadays. Tisha pops in, and the trio discusses some TV shows. The guys break into sports to discuss Navy Football and the WNBA Rookie of the Year. With Donald Trump and Kamala Harris both appearing in podcasts recently, Damo wonders why more Navy leadership are not doing long-form content with independent media platforms. The Navy has began tests on a device called the TRAM and it’s a game changer. A 55-year father reenlisted into the Navy after being inspired by his son who recently joined. What’s going on a the Newport News Shipyard with these faulty welds? The GAO released an eye-opening report about Sailor-led maintenance. Can we find out more about the EMPLOY program? Can one toxic Chief impact a command’s #1 EP First Class Petty Officer? A #DoBetter from a listener about leader development training is read. What happens when you get screened in the marketplace but placed on OPHOLD prior to your planned promotion date? These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode:

Navy testing a device called the TRAM - Tranferrable Reload-at-sea-Method Device - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/10/16/game-changing-navy-reloads-cruisers-missiles-at-sea-for-first-time/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_nt&fbclid=IwY2xjawF9svtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHQAG9qGgp-JzXWafNj-n-wqdWuJZz5mLdbnRzynAq5pyXmuUMrkgeafcRw_aem_EAOZohx3CkrFqZ4SYO4s1Q

USS New Jersey (First Sub designed for Women crew members - https://www.stripes.com/branches/navy/2024-09-15/navy-submarine-commission-new-jersey-15181263.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2hkLG6iTNqBEyd1aQkfDjapBQbsXv0OKwZU_nY1uqp6aj-9ddOpYDZfEI_aem_4ToSNp6TsmzEQIgmzL_YYw

Do we need to carry Rifles during Boot Camp like the Air Force? https://taskandpurpose.com/news/air-force-recruits-rifles/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1e3hDItnEnLBQlY2bVIoFOnQQNJjSlIhioVo5iw2CvKfwACEpEtKQW0RM_aem_EObYUHOFzq-5fckM6DC97Q

Father reenlisted in Navy inspired by his son https://taskandpurpose.com/news/navy-father-son/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR222IIj5eYuXjo326W4rAESN0R-lix-G9sRShcGHjjCuIxibuaLgh8Ppko_aem_5Akeb63810DYYm0mMAhAqg

Intentional Faulty Welds (Newport News Shipbuilding) https://www.foxnews.com/us/newport-news-shipbuilding-suspects-intentionally-faulty-welds-multimillion-dollar-naval-vessels

Sailor Led Maintenance Report (Governement Accountability Office) https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-24-106525#summary_recommend

Book of the Week:

Armed with Good Intentions (Wallo267) https:/www.wallo267.comarmedwithgoodintentions

This episode contains a snippet of:

Song: Welcome Back

Artist: Mase

Producer: The Movement

Label: Bad Boy

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

About Our Guest:

Dr. John Cordle is a retired Navy Captain with 30 years of service. He commanded two Navy warships, USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS San Jacinto (CG 56). He was the 2010 recipient of the Navy League John Paul Jones Award and the BUMED (Bureau of Medicine and Surgery) Epictetus Award for Innovative and Inspirational Leadership, and the 2019 ASNE (American Society of Naval Engineers) Solberg Award Winner for his research in the area of Crew Endurance and Human Systems Engineering.

About The Episode:

Human Factors Engineer and Retired Navy Captain Dr. John Cordle joins Damo and Tish. John begins the conversation by explaining where his LinkedIn title, “Prolific Disruptive Thinker,” comes from.  He discusses how the book “Black Officer, White Navy,” and his relationship with its author, Reuben Keith Green, impacted his outlook on Diversity. John deeply dives into beards and why he feels the current beard policy negatively impacts African American Sailors. John discusses his efforts to introduce the Circadian Rhythm to the Navy and the issues that servicemembers have regarding sleeping. Does anyone remember the “operational pause” that happened due to the collisions in 2017? John details the concept of a “Pirate Ship” and the benefits of prioritizing rest in the command’s plan of the day. The GAO Report is revisited. Can the “fix-it” mentality negatively impact a SME? Whatever happened to adding “respect” as a Navy core value? Dr. Cordle talks about his campaign for the USS Stennis to be renamed and why a namesake can be so important to a ship’s crew. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Follow Dr. Cordle on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordlejp?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Links and more from the episode:

Article: “It’s Time For the Navy to Allow Sailors on Shore Duty To Have Short Trimmed Beards” by Dr. John Cordle - https://www.navytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2022/04/16/its-time-for-the-navy-to-allow-sailors-on-shore-duty-to-have-short-trimmed-beards/

Article: “Captain, Gets Some Sleep!” by Dr. John Cordle - https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2019/february/captain-get-some-sleep

Article: “Op-Ed: It's Time to Add Respect as a Core Navy and Marine Corps Value” by Dr. John Cordle - https://maritime-executive.com/editorials/op-ed-it-s-time-to-add-respect-as-a-core-navy-and-marine-corps-value

Article: “R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Find Out What It Means To Me” by Dr. John Cordle - https://blog.usni.org/posts/2022/03/22/r-e-s-p-e-c-t-find-out-what-it-means-to-me

Article: “The Case for Renaming the USS John C. Stennis” by Lieutenant Commander Reuben Keith Green, U.S. Navy (Retired) - https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2020/june/case-renaming-uss-john-c-stennis

Book of the Week:

Black Officer, White Navy (Reuben Green) - https://goodreads.com/book/show/38320012-black-officer-white-navy

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

On this episode: Damon and Damo begin this episode with a recap on the Floyd Mayweather Vs. Logan Paul fight.  The two quickly discuss the Lamar Odom Vs. Aaron Carter fight. Damon reflects on his son’s high school graduation and the graduation celebration of it. Damo discusses the responsibilities of his new role as an Alcohol and Drug Control Officer (ADCO). The Goats reiterate why they started the podcast and talk about camaraderie on watch. Damo explains to Damon how he celebrates “Pride Month” and discuss ALNAV 031/21 and Executive Order 14004, Enabling all Qualified Americans to Serve the Country in uniform. Who loves the “101 Days of Summer” Safety stand down? Welcome home to the Theodore Roosevelt and every ship that came home from deployment. The goats discuss the upcoming initiative to make the COVID vaccine mandatory. Why doesn’t the NEX have chip readers yet? Internet should never go down on shore duty. Damo asks Damon what made him become a “Lifer.” Is it still cool to be a lifer? The Sgt. Jonathan Pentland conversation finally happens. How should you wear your military uniform in public? The right way. The two discuss their opinions on the best approach to what to do when you see a shipmate violating uniform policy in public. Why is Damo talking about Aliens again? Is there a reason why some commands are asking for periodic evaluations 3 to 4 months early?Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Exclusive PTSF Merchandise:

https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/ “On Time Is Late” Ballcap

From This Episode

Links and more information:

OPNAVINST 5350.4D Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Control

https://www.secnav.navy.mil/doni/Directives/05000%20General%20Management%20Security%20and%20Safety%20Services/05-300%20Manpower%20Personnel%20Support/5350.4D.pdf

Navy 101 Days of Summer

https://navalsafetycenter.navy.mil/Media/News/Article/2578879/naval-safety-center-launches-annual-101-critical-days-of-summer-safety-campaign/

Cicadas Emergence 

https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/23/world/cicadas-2021-emergence-scn/index.html

USS Theodore Roosevelt Returns Home

https://www.cpf.navy.mil/news.aspx/130864

Latest DOD Coronavirus Guidance

https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Latest-DOD-Guidance/Movie

Sgt. Jonathan Pentland Update

https://www.wltx.com/article/news/crime/jonathan-pentland-hearing-viral-video-hearing/101-d80efe02-9b3f-419f-bc2a-702770344170

UFOs and The Navy

https://www.foxla.com/news/new-footage-allegedly-shows-us-navy-ship-swarmed-by-ufos

Navy Petty Officer Steroid Trafficking Network

https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/pr/us-navy-petty-officer-pleads-guilty-participating-multi-state-anabolic-steroid

Damo’s Book of the Week: A Promised Land (By Barack Obama)

https://obamabook.com/

The History of the Black Baptist Church (By Wayne E. Croft Sr.)

https://www.amazon.com/History-Black-Baptist-Church-Tired-ebook/dp/B08CZXXBBY#:~:text=Dr.,evolution%20of%20distinctively%20black%20denominations

Movie Reviewed: In The Heights 

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

The whole gang is here this go-round! Why not start with a conversation about summer safety. Damon addresses his absence. This is Damon’s first official PCS since the podcast began. The Presidential debate happened but what can we say about it? Damon asks for some advice on how to manage the Instagram algorithm. He also recaps his experience watching Caitlyn Clark play live. Shout out to the people who know the Navy isn’t for them and make the right decision to move on. The guys have a debate about who they believe will be the WNBA’s “Rookie of the Year.” Damo received a phone call that inspired him. A photo of a junior Sailor with pink hair has been floating around - the cast discusses the picture. They discuss the need to uphold standards as a leader and a peer. A young Soldier made a DIY video transforming her barracks room into an aesthetically pleasing space. What’s going on in the MIltok community? We want to know. Thousands of Airmen are facing an inspection to raise standards in one of the biggest commands in the Air Force. NAVADMIN 123/24 discusses new guidelines on the documentation of failed physical fitness assessments. A Commanding Officer with too much time on his hands gets caught up posing as his ex-girlfriend on the internet. What’s a healthcare desert and how does that pertain to service members? Are Officers being treated better than junior Enlisted at military hospitals? Music Festival SXSW dropped the Army as a sponsor due to other collaborators threatening to pull out of the event. Are there still “Sundown Towns” in 2024? The cast discusses what’s better between the long commute and the short drive to work. Are Sunday duty days “clutch” for Sailors in their 20s? How do you plan to celebrate your “AAA” Sailors? Damo has a couple of updates from some of our previous episodes. Responding to a social media post, the trio discusses dealing with loneliness. Do military families need to move so much? A question from a listener is answered. Everyone shares their “Do Better.” Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links From This Episode:

Air Force (Mass Inspection) https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2024/06/18/thousands-of-airmen-face-inspection-as-4-star-warns-of-lax-standards/

NAVADMIN 123/24: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24123.txt?ver=AOpdxhH0MhDkgBcHto3AWg%3d%3d

Navy Captain Catfishing as Ex-Girlfriend https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/06/21/navy-captain-convicted-for-ex-girlfriend-cyberstalking-and-id-theft/

Half of the military bases in the country are in healthcare deserts https://www.npr.org/2024/06/13/g-s1-4187/military-bases-shortage-health-care-troops-army-navy-marines#:~:text=An%20NPR%20analysis%20found%20that,called%20%E2%80%9Chealth%20care%20deserts.%E2%80%9D

The disparity of care at Military Hospitals: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/05/17/officers-higher-rank-get-better-care-those-lower-ranks-military-hospitals-study-finds.html

Operation Fouled Anchor https://taskandpurpose.com/news/coast-guard-official-resigns/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1vrgptGPsDoFATDTMtoGA0RawkBZ_sN5_3HprZyq75qvV_P7OK0ukHQ7Q_aem_04pnmxCoQ_Q5WRJM-n2JSA

SXSW Booted the Army as a Sponsor because artists said they would drop out https://taskandpurpose.com/news/army-booted-festival-sponsor-protests-over-war-profiteers/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1RfIpEJ95Ej3BbDQNodeNxfWV4vQQhUsYO4jI16covzrMCCFRxe511Or8_aem_K-40UrXOrDV-sNn3vMi0pA

Still Sundown Towns? https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/06/21/active-duty-families-seek-transparency-hate-crimes-and-racism-military-communities.html?utm_content=buffer5b406&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2DGd9IjVd0URxuyvBSbUK1fBzNqbR4RCd64bPfqT8Z3TpQbFRkOB90_gk_aem_AaPHUa27anrh9fd4i4M6Kw

What it means for an Amphibious Warship to be Ready https://news.usni.org/2024/06/25/navy-marine-corps-agree-on-readiness-standards-for-amphibious-warships

Navy Chief Sentenced for Espionage https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/05/30/former-navy-chief-sentenced-to-18-years-on-attempted-espionage-charges/

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Supercommunicators: How to unlock the Secret Language of Connection (Charles Duhigg) https://www.charlesduhigg.com/supercommunicators

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

We are joined by “The People SUPPO,” LCDR James Ball. Damo opens up by admitting a mistake he made in our previous episode. Are sneakers the key to leadership? Damo vents a bit about frustrations stemming from recent events and why he doesn’t talk about politics. Politics vs. Humanity becomes a topic of the conversation. Damo shares his thoughts about Elon Musk. Congratulations to NSA Annapolis for winning the Regional Installation Excellence award for Naval District Washington for the second year in a row! Rest in peace to ENAVFIT; it’s been a short and horrible run. Is Wi-Fi beneficial for morale on deployments? President Trump promised to bring back troops removed due to Covid, but will they want to return? LCDR Ball talks about why he joined and his early years as an enlisted Sailor in the Navy. He speaks about the three people that he wanted to show that he can be successful. James compares Carrier life to Cruiser life and reflects on his favorite command. He details his fitness journey from beginning to work out to competing in and winning multiple bodybuilding competitions. He talks about diet during and meals after competitions. JB outlines his retirement plans. Damo reflects on his past weight loss journey. Damo asked LCDR Ball about his leadership philosophy, as he shares his own. LCDR details his worst experience as a leader. James gives his “Do Better.” Follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode:

DEI - https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing/

Telework - https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/return-to-in-person-work/

Regional Installation Excellence - https://ndw.cnic.navy.mil/News/News-Detail/Article/4040183/nsa-annapolis-wins-2024-ndw-installation-excellence-award-moves-to-navy-wide-co/

NAVFIT Modernization - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2025/NAV25012.txt?ver=w5vO8IUh_Bmw9R2mpWoTmg%3d%3d

Troops Released due to Covid Offered to Return - https://www.militarytimes.com/news/pentagon-congress/2025/01/20/trump-promises-to-bring-back-troops-booted-for-refusing-covid-vaccine/

Book of the Week:

Damo - Good Energy (Casey Means, MD/ Calley Means) https://www.caseymeans.com/goodenergy

LCDR Ball - The Motive (Patrick Lencioni) https://www.tablegroup.com/product/themotive/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon, Damo, and Tisha are joined by COMNAVSURFPAC CMDCM Charles “Chubbs” Smith for an episode full of jewels. The crew starts just catching up with each other to see how things are going. Chubbs talks about the power of having a squared-away uniform, remembering a sea story from his time as an undesignated Seamon. He then discusses passing on the legacy of service to his son, who’s currently enlisted in the Navy. Damo talks to Chubbs about being the “first-generation” of family members to achieve certain things. They discuss the idea of unapologetically being yourself. Tisha asks Chubbs about the differences between being a TYCOM Command Master Chief and being the CMC of a vessel/command. Chubbs remembers one of his craziest DRB experiences and talks about how he holds his Chiefs accountable in the event they violate UCMJ. Has the Navy recovered from COVID? Damo and Chubbs have a light debate about the differences they’ve seen in the recovery process. We can’t talk about Covid without discussing extremism. How did Chubbs’ TRIAD handle the protests? Experiences with racism are expressed. Chubbs drops some jewels for any Senior Enlisted Leader going to their first command. Board Eligible results are out! What’s next for eligible Sailors? Chubbs gives advice to all the Sailors that are up for Chief. Tish asks about marriage and personal life. Chubbs provides an entry to our #DoBetter segment about collateral duties and manning issues. Damon has a “selfish” #DoBetter for retirees.

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

** Originally released 23 February 2022**

On this episode, Damo sits down with one of his longtime friends and business partner, Wesley Pinkney. Wesley Pinkney is a retired Navy Chief with a really interesting story. He talks about it all from what made him join the Navy, how he was able to retire in only 13 years, and his inspiration behind the Pizza Restaurant in which he founded and owns; Plank Owner Pizza Bar. The two served at three commands together so they quickly breeze through shipboard shenanigans, wax poetic about getting fired from K-Mart, and how hard it was to go to high school when Bow Wow was running the game. There is so much more in this episode, but of course, they talk pizza! If you enjoyed this episode, please remember to review, like, subscribe, comment, and share.

All social media for the Fan Room: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Plank Owner Pizza:

Instagram - https://instagram.com/plankownerpizza?utm_medium=copy_link

Facebook - https://m.facebook.com/plankownerpizza

Email (For serious inquiries only) - info@plankownerpizza.com

Wesley Pinkney: IG - https://instagram.com/wespink86?utm_medium=copy_link

The guys kick things off with a discussion about evaluation preferences (00:01:35). Happy 246th Birthday to the United States Navy (00:07:35), Damon and Damo discuss what they did to commemorate the special day. With sea duty being so demanding, are we all taking consideration into how much we are demanding on ourselves and our Sailors during Shore duty (00:24:08)? More updates on the case of Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller (01:04:38). Damon addresses leaders being uncomfortable with address Sailors with strong personalities (01:08:10), Damo offers his “2 cents.”  With NAVADMIN 225/21, Big Navy solidifies its stance on service members who refused to get immunized for COVID-19 (01:32:45) and breaks down the roles of the CCDA.  These and more topics are covered on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and more information from this episode:

CNO Birthday Message to the Fleet

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2021/NAV21224.txt?ver=5bJK-nqA6C7sDD3Jv8rC5g%3d%3d

Ordinary Seaman Robert Augustus Sweeney -  Medal of Honor

https://face2faceafrica.com/article/robert-augustus-sweeney-the-only-african-american-to-earn-the-medal-of-honor-twice

Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller (Update)

https://taskandpurpose.com/news/marine-corps-lt-col-stuart-scheller-sentenced/

NAVADMIN 225/21

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2021/NAV21225.txt?ver=EfkG2psijI2X0IEKSId_5w%3d%3d

Meritorious Advancement Program

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Community-Management/Enlisted-Career-Admin/Advancement/MAP/

Damo’s Book of the Week: 

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! (Written by Robert T. Kiyosaki)

https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194

Movie Reviewed: 

Cherry (Directed by Joe an Anthony Russo)

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9130508/

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

**DISCLAIMER**

The thoughts and views expressed in this episode are the thoughts and views of the speakers and shall not be in any form associated with views of the Department of Defense and its components.

**PLEASE READ**

We recorded an episode in March, however, due to multiple issues, we will not be able to release the episode. There were a few topics discussed that were we felt we needed to share, so we decided to release bits and pieces of the episode as “bonus episodes.” This is the first installment.

About This Episode:

Damon, Damo, and Tisha debate about four-day work weeks and discuss “pressure” when it comes to Sailors in the Navy.   Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

On this episode, Damon and Damo discuss the importance of family understanding the sacrifices that come along with a long term career in the armed forces. Damo has another, "...that one time on liberty story." The guys have a short discussion about crying. 

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Damo is on a solo mission. Discussing the "goings on" in the country, fleet, and at home. 

Captain Gervy Alota joins the show for an obviously epic episode! He starts from the beginning - Southeast, San Diego. He recounts stories of escaping a lifestyle in the streets and getting into football at an early age. He speaks about how his Father introducing him to football turned into him becoming a starter on the USNA Football team where he became a team captain and was later inducted into the Academy’s Hall of Fame. He recalls his experience on ‘Fear Factor’ and remembers his time representing the Army in a combative fighting tournament. As a Chief Engineer (CHENG), he experienced a very significant moment that would impact him for the rest of his life. The Captain talks about his first day as a CO and when it finally set in his head that he was the Commanding Officer of a warship. How did Capt. Alota and the crew of the USS John P Murtha (LPD 26) handle the period of political and racial unrest following the murder of George Floyd and the Jan 6th riots? How vital is the Chief’s Mess when it comes to shaping and sustaining a culture? Capt. Gervy discusses the value of having a positive sea story. Who came up with the idea for “Club 26”? How does Capt. Alota approach CO’s Mast and holding Sailors accountable? What exactly is the “Bag of Balls?” What is the value of a cohesive TRIAD? Capt. Alota recounts why he started an Instagram page and some of the benefits the crew and their families saw from the usage of social media. He talks about dealing with internet trolls and negative feedback. Has Capt. Gervy ever been told to take a post down? Capt. has a funny story about getting “checked” while walking on base. The crew talks Filipino Mafia and what it’s all about. Capt. Alota gets into Gervy and discusses his family and the impact his father has on him. Capt. Gervy dishes on some disappointing professional news that he recently received. Capt. Alota’s “Do Better” (Addressed to COs): Love, listen to, recognize, care, uplift and make your Sailors better. What does “Win Everyday - B GREAT” mean? These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Keep up with Capt. Gervy on his social media platforms:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/captaingervy/?hl=en

Links and more from this Episode:

Capt. Alota’s Book Recommendation:

The Energy Bus (Jon Gordon) - https://www.theenergybus.com/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/paulo-kalazzi/heros-time

License code: DD4KCRBFQ8NXE5TP

Tisha and Damo are joined by ITSN Mario A. Litano. ITSN Litano is a recent graduate from the Navy's Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. They ask him what made him decide to join the military as a 39-year old married man with children and an already established lifestyle. He discusses his day-to-day experiences while serving as a recruit during the pandemic. Of course, Tisha and Damo wanted to compare boot camp experiences and discusse differences between now and when they went through. These and more topics are discussed on this bonus episode. Enjoy!

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

Damo starts this episode with a disclaimer. Let’s protect our junior Sailors and ensure they can have transparent conversations about leadership and military lifestyle. The Navy’s official Instagram account recently went viral for all the wrong reasons. The guys discuss. Damo has finally processed that he’s leaving one place and headed to another. He has some thoughts about that. Damon is also going through a transition. He’s making a cross-country transfer and has been asked to check in early for an underway. What should he do? Fair winds and following seas to Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Oriola Michael Aregbesola, declared lost at sea on 20 March 2024. OJ Simpson has passed away at 76 due to prostate cancer. The guys give flowers to women’s basketball. Kendrick Lamar and Drake are at war. Who’s gonna come out on top? Where does J. Cole fall out after his public apology? Can you aspire to be the best at what you do without being competitive? After 100 years, the British Army’s soldiers can grow beards, however, there are some contingencies. Marines living on Camp Pendleton can now self-repair their barracks rooms utilizing a new “self-help” program. What’s happening on the USS Boxer? A former Marine Corps reservist was sentenced to prison for selling over 300 fake COVID cards. The guys try to have an objective conversation about the Chief’s Mess. They address issues pointed out by junior Sailors and highlight what they believe are ways the Navy is addressing some of those points. Damon and Damo answer a couple of listeners’ questions. #DoBetter - NFCU and the VA facing discrimination lawsuits (Damo). Companies that practice “quantity or quality” (Damon). Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Navy Backwards Scope - https://www.dailydot.com/debug/navy-backwards-scope-instagram/?amp

Sailor Lost at Sea - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/03/24/navy-ids-sailor-who-died-while-underway-in-the-red-sea/

British Army Soldiers can now have beards - https://www-dailymail-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13250981/amp/Army-British-soldiers-grow-beard-King-Charles-military-chiefs-permission-end-ban.html

What’s going on on the USS Boxer? - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/03/19/least-3-engineering-incidents-and-poor-leadership-kept-uss-boxer-deploying-investigations-reveal.html?amp and https://www.dvidshub.net/news/466708/uss-boxer-earns-combat-readiness-excellence-awards

Self-Help Program for Marines on Camp Pendleton - https://taskandpurpose.com/news/marines-self-repair-barracks/

Should they do time?  - https://americanmilitarynews.com/2024/04/300-fake-covid-vaccine-cards-were-sold-by-fmr-marine-reservist-nurse/?utm_source=amn&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=alt&fbclid=IwAR2N9q4Gce3IN7ImOAR6x4IC1KnlaU61yQ7O-bvzBJUVzj84amFPtGE_6CQ_aem_ATX8kSpNb3epIIzZkmMzBqyFcAc-J5I6BLwZH9rInMvnGdrf2cXDvt34a42_3H62sjU#561pzda46qw

Navy Federal doing people bad on these mortgages - https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/18/business/class-action-lawsuit-navy-federal-invs/index.html

VA doing people bad on these disability claims  - https://www.militarytimes.com/veterans/2024/04/01/court-oks-lawsuit-accusing-va-of-discrimination-in-disability-claims/

Book of the Week

Surf When You Can (Brett Crozier) - https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Surf-When-You-Can/Brett-Crozier/9781982191009

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Tisha kicked out the guys for our Women’s History Month panel and the ladies chop it up on this one! The panel, hosted by Tisha, includes ABE2 Marina Griffin, YN1 Ashlie Beaver, LCDR Emily Curran, YNCS Ashley Williams, and LS1 Stephanie Confer. They discuss the importance of having female representation in male-dominated fields. Ashlie Beaver talked about the challenges of being one of the boys while staying true to her femininity. Marina discussed being a "cold Princess Warrior.” Stephanie expressed her frustration with the constant uniform changes. Ashley emphasized the significance of morale and how small things, such as nail color, can boost it. The women also talked about how men often rely on women to correct uniform issues. Tisha shared an instance where the Uniform Matters Officer criticized her Sailor's ponytail. Stephanie talked about being ostracized by the mean girls. Emily, who is married to an LCDR, feels that he automatically gets respect while she has to earn it. The ladies discussed the challenges of balancing family and career while debunking the myth that female leaders are tougher. These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Follow the ladies on the respective social media channels:

Marina Griffin (ABE2) - IG: @marina.delreyy Ashlie Beaver (YN1) - IG: @twiz_05 Emily Curran (LCDR) - IG: @see.em.run Ashley Williams (YNCS) - IG: @almondeyesdontlie Stephanie Confer (LS1) - IG: @stephanie_a_86

Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Tisha is actually a part of this episode. It’s just very hard to hear her. CPO Initiation season is officially upon us and Damon discusses feeling disconnected from season events due to his job schedule. Football season is upon us as well! Damon is finally picking Master Chief billets. He explains why he wouldn’t want to serve on the same ship as his son. Do Better: Damo - (1) his ability to shine his boots. (2) Your bad experience is not the Navy experience. Damon - Stop questioning the process. Damo reveals why he removed about 15 minutes for the last episode. Fact: Our young Sailors are survivors. Damo reviews a “Navy centric” app that he recently discovered. Damo recalls his “blackout” experience in Millington, questioning the military’s preparedness when unforeseen circumstances arise. Damon questions the amount of “red tape” that comes into play when you’re trying to make changes. The guys clarify some information from our last episode about enclosures for the “Letter to the Board” submission to ESSB. Rumor Mill for the first time on the pod! Let’s hear what’s the people are talking about on these deckplates. Should CMDCMs get more money? Do they even deserve it? Can an LCPO have 51% of the decision making process in his/her division? The concept of “disconnect” is explored going both up and down the chain of command. The guys address the MCPONs current focus on Chief Petty Officers and the CPO Initiation. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

MCPON CPO Initiation Introduction Letter -https://media.defense.gov/2023/Aug/16/2003282009/-1/-1/1/CPO%20INTRODUCTION%20TO%20INITIATION%20LETTER.PDF

MCPON Targeting Hazing to Combat Leadership Problems -https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/29/navys-top-enlisted-sailor-targeting-hazing-combat-leadership-problems.html

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Before The Episode:

“988” is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Veterans can press “1” after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

On this Episode:

Damo is joined by Eric Frohardt. Eric is a husband, father, entrepreneur, and a former Navy Seal with nearly 12 years of service, on various Teams including the highly revered Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DevGru). Over the course of his career, he’s deployed numerous times to hot spots around the world including Iraq and Afghanistan. While on active duty, he climbed El Capitan and 2 of the 7 Summits: Denali and Aconcagua. Now, Eric works as the COO of Defy, a performance beverage company with nationwide distribution in over 11,000 locations.

Eric’s story begins on a Hog Farm in Sac City, Iowa. He reflects on his upbringing on the farm and the vital lessons that he learned from observing his parents while working long hours at a young age. Eric talks about his stint as a high school and junior college football player. Then, at some point he joined the Navy and became a SEAL, because someone bet him that he wouldn’t do it. Is BUD/S more of a test of will than a test of strength? How does it feel to go through BUD/S while passing a kidney stone? Eric discusses his experience while enlisted as a Navy Seal, which was full of as much action as despair. Rest well to all the brothers that we’ve loss along the way. Eric was eventually awarded a Purple Heart, which ironically, played a major part in his exit from the military. He recaps his experience after ending his military service to figuring out is path and eventually landing in his current role at Defy. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Eric Frohardt Social Media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ericfrohardt/?hl=en

More Information Defy (and Defy Products):

Website: https://drinkdefy.com/

Company IG Profile: https://www.instagram.com/defy/

Community IG Profile: https://www.instagram.com/defynation_/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Hope you enjoyed your Christmas! Welcome to another episode of Permission to Speak Freely. There are so many topics covered here. The "Beard" conversation is brought back up. The guys discuss how they joined the Navy and picked their rates. From Space Force to the Colin Kaepernick, there is just too much to discuss to outline in this episode. Just listen up and remember to like, follow, comment and share. 

Links and More Information:

Army Navy Game

https://www.google.com/search?q=army+navy+game&rlz=1C1GCEB_enUS885US885&oq=army+navy+game&aqs=chrome..69i57.5575j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

Ford Hood Top Enlisted Soldier

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/12/19/fort-hoods-top-enlisted-soldier-suspended-investigation-pending.html

Space Force Sailor Busted

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/12/17/space-force-member-was-busted-down-rank-bailing-pt-get-playstation-5.html

COVID Vaccine

https://www.military.com/video/sailors-distribute-some-of-first-covid-19-vaccine-doses-san-diego

Women in Special Forces

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/12/22/two-women-are-currently-attempting-special-warfare-training-air-force-says.html

Space Force Growth

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/12/20/space-force-poised-see-major-growth-new-uniforms-2021.html

Navy Hospital

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/12/16/va-has-hospital-named-slavery-supporting-confederate-doctor-and-it-wont-change-wilkie-says.html

Nasty Chief

https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/12/18/chief-charged-with-trying-to-record-female-servicemembers-in-private-area-in-bahrain/?fbclid=IwAR27319snhfDlRPbqZPeloxnbKxSKnfM1fekJbMzOPkZVfNLHdg1NzeBQcQ

Captain Amy N. Bauernschmidt

https://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/lpd22/Pages/bio1_9September2019-21October2020.aspx

Intro music produced by: Limo

Logo artwork/design by: Natashya Vince

Damo and Tisha show up on this Halloween episode. They get right to it starting with a brand new #DoBetter segment. Both of these are focused on the Khaki Ball. Damo had to learn him something about Air Department on the Carrier and give them their flowers. During a recent trip to the Airport, Tisha finds out that she’s been “cut off” from her active duty perks. The USS Carney downed 3 land attack missiles from Yemen. The US Navy has just promoted its first female Senior Chief Mortician. Have you ever felt like your ship was haunted? Tish and Damo discuss the scariest movies they’ve ever seen. Another NAVADMIN about Senior enlisted billets is released, but what’s the difference between this one and the last one? Have you ever used the CO suggestion box? The duo discusses dealing with stinky Sailors. Damo discusses rapper Jeezy’s childhood as a military brat. Courting as an E1 is discussed. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

-USS CARNEY downed 3 land attack missiles from Yemen. https://news.usni.org/2023/10/19/u-s-destroyer-used-sm-2s-to-down-3-land-attack-missiles-launched-from-yemen-says-pentagon?fbclid=IwAR1DcWdFhClkiH-AidqbvH2t7OX5J5oDxzgnFdqaT644UNfQr0Yw74ggkDk_aem_AVxvpXrhGzK6ZjHJbTJtaJBz6piMhYRiOQ8aLZTFWmd14s95nevdYyeS3Bj5B3HHuk&mibextid=Zxz2cZ

-First female Senior Chief Mortician: Jessica Zugzda. https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/10/24/navy-promotes-first-female-mortician-to-senior-chiefpettyofficerfbclid=IwAR1Jk2GjsZQXhOzgMLgTyRP2aTQbKueU7oS0hPS27EiVhxBpoXK2XFtF5w_aem_AWHJMhT9TNeYSZnJjeSNoCVVo7N8DB9qHIRqeLqT3XNUGoU8BoDLP9k_-G_W9ciJ968&mibextid=Zxz2cZ

-NAVADMIN 254/23 (Senior Enlisted Billet Optimization): https://forum.navyadvancement.com/topic/9375-fy24-senior-enlisted-assignment-optimization/

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Adversity For Sale: Ya Gotta Believe (Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins) - https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/9781400236251/adversity-for-sale/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

This episode is dedicated to one of our fallen shipmates, Jorden Burleson—Fair Winds and Following Seas.

Major shoutouts to our listeners—we missed y’all! Damo and Tisha catch up on date nights and cheering for your Sailors outside of the office. Damo opens up about his current command, while Tisha shares some details about her job. Damo reveals a medical issue he finally got some answers for. Shout out to Tricare for holding it down. All hail Simone Biles! We discuss her recent accomplishments and why her story is important for today’s children. It’s DEOCS season, so go ahead and knock those surveys out. The FY25 SELRES results are out, and the quotas have been released for active-duty CPO candidates. A past guest asks the show a question about the CPO Season. A Microsoft outage means so much more than just a “blue screen of death.” A SWO Department Head retention bonus has been announced. An economic hardship bonus has been announced for junior Sailors, but is it enough? CNIC has relaxed some restrictions on attire in shore-based galleys. Tish and Damo discuss politics for a bit. Before diving too deep into politics, let’s make sure we review ALNAV 061/24, the guidance on political activities for all DoD personnel. Rest well to Sonya Massey. The Army arrests another military scammer. A $78 million project is underway at HII Newport News Shipyard to add and upgrade facilities that will improve the quality of life and work for Sailors in RCOH. An E4 in the Marines stands out for his mechanical expertise. Damo doesn’t like being called “Sir.” Comments from listeners are read. Damo and Tisha share their “Do Betters,” and a listener’s “Do Better” is also read.

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links From This Episode:

Command Climate Assessment https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24152.txt?ver=NOwKiP0GCRjkh0ye5WaEpA%3d%3d

SWO Dept head retention bonus https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Detailing/Officer/Pers-41-SWO/Pay-Incentives/SWO-DH-Retention/

Heard about the Sailor who searched for the President’s Medical Record? https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2024/07/09/sailor-searched-for-bidens-electronic-health-records-navy-says/

ALNAV 061/24 https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/ALNAV/ALN2024/ALN24061.txt?ver=arJyClji_Wrz_pXO0NBUpA%3d%3d

Rest Well to Sonya Massey https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/23/us/sonya-massey-police-shooting-what-went-wrong/index.html

Economic Hardship Bonuses https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/07/19/economic-hardship-bonuses-are-finally-coming-troops-they-might-be-smaller-expected.html?amp

US Army worker who stole nearly $109 million to buy mansions and luxury cars is sentenced https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/24/us/us-army-worker-mello-sentenced/index.html

Carrier Refueling Overhaul Workcenter https://news.usni.org/2024/07/15/navy-issues-hii-78m-contract-mod-that-includes-quality-of-life-facility-at-newport-news

Sailors can wear regular clothes to the Galley on base https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/07/17/sailors-can-now-wear-regular-clothes-when-they-eat-in-shore-galleys/

Marine Corporal (E4) earns medal for finding flaws in tech manual https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2024/05/16/marine-corporal-earns-prestigious-medal-for-saving-military-140m/

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Anchored In Resilience (Amaury Ponciano) https://www.amazon.com/Anchored-Resilience-Overcoming-Adversity-Awareness/dp/1662947216?dplnkId=a52fb6d3-d187-4886-8a73-7adda03742dc&nodl=1

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Congratulations to all the CPO Selectees! Remember, you only get ONE season so soak it up and take advantage of the opportunity.

Damon and Damo are joined once again by CMDCS Aaron Paul. Damo and Aaron were both members of the current CPO Selection boards and they are here to tell the tale. Damo’s visit to Millington started out pretty eventful as a storm caused a blackout on the base and all over town. He rushed through the story as he recaps his time in Memphis, highlight restaurants, and the foods that he ate. The guys then get into sitting the Selection board, breaking down the process to the best of their recollection. They discuss their pros and cons regarding the Selection Board Process. What should you be thinking about as you’re planning for your next evaluation report? Is the Career Summary Letter necessary to be submitted with your LTB? Should you split your LTB to give the panel member an easier grading process? “Sustained Superior Performance” vs “Early Promote;” Damo asks Aaron for his opinion of which one holds more weight. Who made Chief within 5 years of going through Mast and being awarded a punishment? Is the “5 Year Penalty Box” a myth? Damon asks if is it possible to give feedback to every “Non-Select.” These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Board Life Pt. II - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bgif0zvzKfo

Board Life Pt. II - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlHtztMpnJQ

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Welp, Football is back! It’s definitely an exciting time of the year for Damon. Another Disciplinary Review Board (DRB) to start of the episode. What do you think is the best command coin?Have you ever wondered what’s it’s like to stand Resident Advisor (RA) watch in the barracks? What does it mean to let “power go to your head” in an organization as structured as the Navy? The term “micromanagement” is discussed. An update on a NAVADMIN that was released and discussed last week. Damo shares his “profound” story. How’s life treating you on that Aircraft Carrier? “Day After Duty” is discussed. Do you prefer “IET” or the normal duty section? Is the era of remote work coming to an end? Who cooks better - People from up north or people from the south? This initiates an age old conversation about who makes the best burger. Two US Navy Sailors were arrested for allegedly spying for China. Is battlestations supposed to be a secret? Damon discusses the woes of aging and trying to stay fit. Do Better: Taking leave to get out of getting underway (Damon), dropping NAVADMINs and programs without much context (Damo). The guys get into a few non-Navy topics, including writing down your goals and most surprising tv or film moment. Words of Wisdom: “The Command will survive without you.” An encounter with an old shipmate leads to a conversation about legacy and leaving a lasting impact on people. The MCPON publishes another “Call to Action,” this one is about Professional and Character development. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

MCPON’s Call to Action: Professional and Character Development - https://www.navy.mil/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=J-6EPo1JU7A%3d&portalid=1

Damo’s Book of the Week:

The Tipping Point (Malcolm Gladwell)- https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

This episode is dedicated to Andamo’s stepmother, Mrs. Stephanie McMillian, who recently passed away. In addition, this episode is dedicated to the service members and civilians who lost their lives in the deadly Kabul airport attack. 

On this episode: Damon and Damo are joined by LTJG Charles Davis to discuss the importance of the relationship between the Division Officer and the LCPO. They begin by discussing fraternization. The guys take the time out to recognize the service-members and civilian that were killed in the Kabul airport attacks. Medal of Honor recipient, BMC Edwin Joseph Hill, who was fatally wounded during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Damo asks a question about CDBs and Midterms. Ways to create more diversity amongst the higher ranks in the Navy are discussed. LTJG Davis describes his worst and favorite moments as a Division Officer. Of course sea stories are traded like challenge coins on this episode. Should leadership always be held accountable for the actions of their subordinates. These and more topics are covered on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and more information from this episode:

Become a commissioned Officer

https://www.navy.com/joining-the-navy/ways-to-join/become-a-commissioned-officer

Kabul Airport Attack

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.wsj.com/amp/articles/afghanistan-kabul-airport-explosion-11629976397

BMC Edwin Joseph Hill Medal of Honor Citation

https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/edwin-j-hill

Information on Midterms

https://work.chron.com/navy-midterm-evaluation-requirements-30293.html

Career Development Boards

https://askinglot.com/what-is-a-career-development-board

Fleet and Family Support Services

https://www.cnic.navy.mil/ffr/family_readiness/fleet_and_family_support_program.html

Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans 

https://m.imdb.com/title/tt1095217/

Damo’s Book of the Week: 

It’s Your Ship: Management Techniques From The Best Damn Ship in the Navy (by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff)

https://www.amazon.com/Its-Your-Ship-Management-Anniversary/dp/145552302X/ref=asc_df_145552302X_nodl/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312111907622&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15116845824737301318&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007736&hvtargid=pla-434386265225&psc=1

Movie Reviewed: 

Top Gun

https://m.imdb.com/title/tt0092099/

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

No guests in this episode, so let the shenanigans ensue. Damo led his first FLDC and had an eye-opening experience. Damon is supporting local businesses. Tisha is telling men if they are men or not. Should Damo get OC sprayed for the culture? Damon reminisces all his OC horror stories. The trio revisits the idea of a 4-Day work week as the Bernie Sanders-led bill moves to Congress. Another topic is revisited as the TikTok ban is gaining steam. The CNO just unveiled ‘Culture of Excellence 2.0,’ what’s it all about? Sailors will soon have 24/7 access to Navy fitness centers throughout the world. As good as this is, let’s be responsible. Damon pulled up with facts about the Navy’s retention numbers. A ‘Women’s Initiative Team’ has been introduced. A Master Chief onboard the USS George Washington gets exposed with multiple accusations. What American Institutions do Americans trust? Damo has a message for people who defend sexual assault. Do you think the MCPON has hands? Tish compares TikTok sensation Reesa Teesa to military members who rush to get married for BAH. Should people get the day off before the advancement exam? Do Better: Damo - Laundry room etiquette in the barracks. Damon - GMTs, period. Damon asks a question about women in special operations. Damon returns to the ‘Book of the Week’ segment and reviews a familiar book. These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Update on 4-Day Work Week: https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Business/bernie-sanders-proposed-32-hour-workweek-pass-congress/story?id=108152411

Update on Tik Tok Ban: https://www.npr.org/2024/03/14/1238435508/tiktok-ban-bill-congress-china

Culture of Excellence 2.0: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24051.txt?ver=aYWH8mhDa9OIM-O_NY5Y1A%3d%3d

COE 2.0 Fact Sheet: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/FACT_SHEETS/Fact_Sheet_NAV_051_24.pdf?ver=EF_FmmJRGcnQHRvDlJgu7A%3d%3d

COE 2.0 Playbook: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Support/Culture%20Resilience/COE/Culture_of_Excellence2_playbook.pdf?ver=s0FpL66RJpXUjjS20flM1w%3d%3d

Navy to keep base gyms open 24/7: https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/display-pressreleases/Article/3702096/navy-base-mwr-fitness-facilities-to-offer-24-7-access/

Navy hit retention goals: https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/02/03/navy-surpasses-fy22-retention-goals-amid-recruitment-challenges/

Women’s Initiative Team: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24037.txt?ver=Ebh0yPTRIJ9cn2EnuHb7vw%3d%3d

MMCM Don Paredes Accusations: https://www.instagram.com/janae_perfectlyflawed/reel/C4TiRjrR59J/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/navy/comments/1bapvdh/really_love_the_navy/

Gallup Confidence List: https://news.gallup.com/poll/1597/confidence-institutions.aspx

Books of the Week:

Front Burner (Kirk Lippold) - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kirk-lippold/front-burner/9781610391252/?lens=publicaffairs

The Energy Bus (Jon Gordon) - https://www.theenergybus.com/

The Coffee Bean (Jon Gordon) - https://jongordon.com/book/the-coffee-bean/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

DCC Cody Osgood came by to discuss the life of a Recruit Division Commander (RDC) at Naval Station Great Lakes. He went from an E5 to an E6 while stationed in Great Lakes. Cody begins by discussing why he joined the Navy. Damo goes left and gets on his soapbox very early in this episode. Cody returns to his story, detailing how he initially felt about being an RDC. Is RDC “C” School as difficult as people claim it is? Does RDC School fault a person for not being “hard” enough? What are some of the common misconceptions of being an RDC? What happens when a Recruit tries to fight an RDC? Do Drill Instructors pick the roles they want to play before they get a “Push”? Are RDCs to blame for newly reported Sailors who don’t seem to understand basic military customs and courtesies? What does it mean to make a Sailor live out of their seabag? Cody talks about making a decision that he now regrets to turn a recruit in the right direction. Cody responds to a question from a listener regarding the ASVAB. Damo asks Cody to “fact-check” some of the reported incentives for an RDC. Cody discusses the challenges of his integrated push. How was the experience of “pushing boots” during Covid? What changed after Covid? What is financial literacy training for a Sailor in Boot Camp? Has Cody ever had personal feelings regarding a Recruit, whether good or bad? What’s a normal day for a division of recruits? What’s the purpose of the 12-minute meal time for a recruit division? How are RDCs evaluated? Cody details the craziest Great Lakes story that he remembers. What is I.T.E? Is Great Lakes getting soft? How do RDCs choose the RPOC?  Cody speaks on whether he would do another tour as an RDC. Navy Boot Camp is now 10 weeks long, but why? How is Warrior Toughness being inculcated into recruits? What’s the real deal with recruits being able to use their cell phones?  Cody gives a “Do Better.” How easy is it to quit Navy Boot Camp? Cody details his favorite thing about being an RDC. Damo asks the pod what are things they wish they would’ve known before they went to Boot Camp. Why do people seem to get so upset about changes when it comes to boot camp? Why do Sailors have to shave on leave? How real does it get at the Navy Ball? Do we always have to speak to the people that didn’t make it when we congratulate the people that did? Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links From This Episode:

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Shout to all of our followers and supporters.  Thank you for a great year!  Damon and Damo are back to close out the year. The guys catch up on their respective holidays. In dire need of advice, Damo brings up relationship dynamics to Damon. Right before Christmas, news of a government shutdown had some people concerned. Damon is finally convinced about life outside of this planet. NAVADMIN 255/24 was released before the holidays. This one is about Billet-Based Advancements - the guys take a deep dive. He may also believe that AI is going to take over the world. What the hell is going on in the Red Sea when it comes to these friendly fire incidents? Do you know what to do if you see a drone flying over your installation? The USS George Washington is taking precautionary measures when it comes to alcohol following a few deaths in a matter of days. Tom Cruise was awarded a top honor from the US Navy for his contributions to the Navy and Marine Corps. The guys switch gears and discuss Kendrick Lamar’s recently released surprise album, ‘GNX.’  How were those Christmas games on Netflix? The guys give Beyonce her flowers.  The guys discuss taking chances, not giving tips, and what they would tell a younger version of themselves if they had the opportunity. Damon questions if the military is failing in our approaches to suicide prevention. Damo reads a listener’s #DoBetter and Damon provides one of his own. The guys have a special movie review for this episode. Y’all remember those? Follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode

Government Shutdown Update: https://nlihc.org/resource/congress-passes-funding-deal-and-disaster-aid-package-prevent-government-shutdown

NAVADMIN 255/24 (Billet-Based Advancements): https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24255.txt?ver=iAry9Hr5TRS54TXRA3yDSA%3d%3d

BBA NAVADMIN Fact Sheet: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/FACT_SHEETS/Fact_Sheet_NAV_255_24.pdf?ver=5uaM6idbLELqyWwL1fE5ng%3d%3d

BBA Handbook: dvidshub.net/r/bm8asv

Uss Gettysburg https://abcnews.go.com/amp/International/2-navy-pilots-shot-red-sea-friendly-fire/story?id=117025025

Drone Incursions.  https://www.twz.com/news-features/multiple-drone-incursions-reported-over-marine-corps-base-camp-pendleton

Alcohol is banned on the GW.  https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/12/04/alcohol-banned-for-uss-george-washington-crew-following-sailor-deaths/

Tom Cruise Gets Top US Navy Honor https://apnews.com/article/tom-cruise-top-gun-navy-honor-britain-973f508e7d1359f5f473a6697c3e5984

Movie Review

The Six Triple Eight (Tyler Perry) - https://www.netflix.com/title/81590591

Book of the Week

Black Veteran Entrepreneur (Mike Steadman/ Alana Abernethy) - https://www.amazon.com/Black-Veteran-Entrepreneur-Validate-Greatness-ebook/dp/B0BHV5799B

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

On this episode: Damo opens up about working without a division. The guys discuss how crucial the first 48 hours at a new command can be. E4 through E6 qoutas have been released! But wait, there was an issue! The importance in not making some mistakes is discussed. Are you the “work horse”? Do you feel overloaded? Are ups burning yourself out to make an impression on the ranking bored? These and more topics are discussed on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Exclusive PTSF Merchandise:

https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/ “On Time Is Late” Ballcap

From This Episode

Links and more information:

E4 - E6 Advancement Results (The Real Lists)

Active:

https://media.defense.gov/2021/Jul/10/2002760037/-1/-1/1/CYCLE251_MEDIA_AD.PDF?fbclid=IwAR23hqE4bz1t_DnkZDv1u1XxAIp7XOaOICBnKZ0kpt57TS24ZuakP3zqFsM

FTS:

https://media.defense.gov/2021/Jul/09/2002759416/-1/-1/0/CYCLE251_MEDIA_FTS.PDF/CYCLE251_MEDIA_FTS.PDF?fbclid=IwAR3W1QHzktxzYOQetXTPuLnYAmk9g5Q6X5aMY51Y1zqlheLsMrC1J0qSubo

Damo’s Book of the Week: 2034: A Novel of the Next World War (by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral James Stavridis, USN)

Movie Reviewed: American Sniper

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

About our guest:

Paul Kingsbury is a retired Fleet Master Chief (U.S. Fleet Forces Command) with 31 years of service. He currently serves as the Director of Uniformed Service Relations at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. He’s the host of the ‘Cutlass Podcast,’ a podcast specializing in leadership lessons and guidance. He’s authored or co-authored the 2nd Edition of the Chief Petty Officer’s Guide, the Petty Officer’s Guide, and the latest edition of the Bluejacket’s Manual. He’s served as the President of the Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) and the co-director of Outreach and Brand Ambassador for the U.S. Naval Institute. He’s published several articles on Navy policy and issues in Proceedings, the USNI Blog, and Joint Forces Quarterly, receiving awards in both the U.S. Naval Institute General Essay and Enlisted Essay Contests.

About the Episode:

Congrats are in order for the newly selected Command Master Chiefs and Command Senior Chiefs. Damo made it y’all. Damon and Tish poke a little fun and congratulate Damo on his selection as a Senior Enlisted Leader. He discusses his thoughts and anticipation about going into a new role. They briefly discuss the story about the Chief who’s recently been accused of espionage.

Retired Fleet Master Chief, Paul Kingsbury joins the show to just chat it up with the gang. He talks about his upbringing as a catholic altar boy in a blue-collar family in South Florida in the 1980s. He discusses his early days as an Electrician’s Mate (EMN) in the Nuclear Power Plant. How do you even become a Fleet Master Chief? What’s the difference between a Force and a Fleet Master Chief? How easy is it for a Fleet Master Chief to make changes? This leads us down a dark rabbit hole about who really runs the military. How’s the work/life balance of a CMC moving up to FLTCM? How did Paul get the opportunities to write (and co-author) the CPO Guide, Petty Officer Guide and Bluejacket’s Manual? How is the transition to a civilian after 31 years of Military Service?  Paul details the craziest thing that he’s seen on a ship while underway. How difficult is it to sustain relationships the higher you climb up the leadership level? Paul explains why he thinks the CPO Selection board has an impact on CPO behavior. Paul’s #Dobetter - “What got you here, won’t get you there.” These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Listen to The Cutlass Podcasty (by Paul Kingsbury) - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/paul-kingsbury03

Keep up with Paul Kingsbury on his social media platforms:

U.S. Naval Institute - https://www.usni.org/people/paul-kingsbury

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kingsbury-3bb8a8b3/

Cutllass Leadership (Website) - https://www.cutlassleadership.com/paul

X - https://twitter.com/kingsburypaul1?lang=en

For the Books:

The Chief Petty Officer’s Guide (Paul Kingsbury) - https://www.usni.org/press/books/chief-petty-officers-guide-2nd-edition

Petty Officer’s Guide (Paul Kingsbury & Daniel Richard) - https://www.usni.org/press/books/petty-officers-guide

The Bluejacket’s Manual, 26th Edition (Thomas J. Cutler, Mark T. Hacala, and Paul Kingsbury) - https://www.usni.org/press/books/bluejackets-manual-26th-edition-0

Links and more from this Episode:

Navy Chief Charged with Espionage - https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13110621/amp/us-navy-chief-japan-charged-espionage.html

Air Force Member Set Himself on Fire Outside Israeli Embassy - https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/us-air-force-member-set-fire-israeli-embassy-dc-died-rcna140455

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Happy Woman’s History Month. We proudly honor all of our sisters-in-arms and our queens on the home-front always leading with flawless execution.

After a very short emergency vacation, the fellas are back! This time they are joined by YN1 Ann Geiman. Back in 2012, as an E3, YN1 created the Gay, Lesbian and Supportive Sailors association (GLASS). This year marks the association’s 10-Year Anniversary. Her acknowledgment of the need for this association took her from being a frustrated A-School student to the White House in less than two years. She gives Damon and Damo the details on the formation of GLASS and how to start a chapter of glass at your respective command. She also talks about some of her struggles being a gay woman trying to make a name for herself in a male dominated division. Damo gets a lesson on pronouns and YN1 talks about where GLASS is now and shares a few sea stories. These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and More Information From This Episode:

GLASS (Chicago Tribune) - https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2012-05-07-ct-met-gay-navy-support-20120507-story.html

Hero of the Week: 

Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester - https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/3885

How to reach YN1 Geiman:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ann.foster.5205

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graysailor/

YN1 Geiman’s Book Suggestion: 

What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat (Aubrey Gordon)

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/645819/what-we-dont-talk-about-when-we-talk-about-fat-by-aubrey-gordon/

Movie Reviewed (Television Series): 

Band of Brothers Ep. 7: The Breaking Point

https://www.hbo.com/band-of-brothers/episodes/7-the-breaking-point

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Damon just got surgery on his back and Damo's having a tough time adjusting to the world post his Jamaica vacation, so here's the deal: Just listen to the damn episode. Things are discussed. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Happy New Year People! We wanted to start this episode off by talking about some Navy stuff. However,  Damo had a weird exchange on Twitter and wanted to share the story. Additionally, another crazy thing happened; a brother shoots his brother for killing their sister because she stopped them from arguing over Christmas gifts. The guys chop it up about Senior Enlisted Marketplace Expansion and the reaction from various servicemembers on social media regarding the announcement. Does MyNavyHR read the comments? Should our Sailors be a little more well-informed regarding Fleet Master Chiefs and their missions? If you’re interested in sitting on the FY-25 Selection and screening boards for E7-E-9, NAVADMIN 296/23 has recently been released with details on how to submit your name for the opportunity. Some Sailors aren’t feeling the new 8-year military service obligation that was announced in NAVADMIN 303/23. Military base pay will increase by over 5% this year. Let’s talk about it. The Pentagon has announced that investigations of serious crimes will be taken out of the hands of the command and overseen by independent investigators. If you’re a recruiter, pay close attention and click the link below. You may be in for a pay bump! The new 2POC uniform is discussed. The Robots are attacking (again)! But how often are these attacks being reported? The guys get caught up on their holidays and weeks. Do Better: McDonalds’s Genie Pass (Damon). The guys discuss the things that they are tired of going into 2024. They also talk about their favorite Navy moments of 2023. What were our favorite personal moments of the year. Favorite books, music, and movies are discussed. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Florida Teen Kills Sister - https://www.cbsnews.com/news/florida-teen-shoots-sister-christmas-argument-abrielle-baldwin-pinellas-county/

Senior Enlisted Marketplace Expansion (NAVADMIN 305/23) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23305.txt?ver=k2UeQXlBl024s0Fefmgohg%3d%3d

FY-25 E7-E9 Selection/Screening Board Message (NAVADMIN 296/23) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23296.txt?ver=x-_4VUvadfxsag1xQDNmSg%3d%3d

8-Year Military Service obligation (NAVADMIN 303/23) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23303.txt?ver=p-DNPlgsb3SxsZsWwnYCfQ%3d%3d

2024 Military Pay Charts - https://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/charts

Overhaul in how we investigate serious crimes https://taskandpurpose.com/news/ucmj-chain-of-command/?

Army Fires Top Prosecutor - https://taskandpurpose.com/news/army-fires-lead-sexual-assault-prosecutor/

Recruiter Incentive Pay expanded - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/459546/navy-recruiting-command-expands-incentive-pay-recruiters

More new uniform distribution in 2024 - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/12/27/new-in-2024-new-flame-retardant-uniform-to-hit-more-ships/

Tesla Robot attacks worker -  https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-12869629/Tesla-robot-ATTACKS-engineer-companys-Texas-factory-violent-malfunction-leaving-trail-blood-forcing-workers-hit-emergency-shutdown-button.html

McDonald’s Opens Cosmc’s - https://corporate.mcdonalds.com/corpmcd/our-stories/article/mcdonalds-welcomes-cosmcs-to-its-universe.html

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Lucky Me (Rich Paul) - https://www.carminegallo.com/books/talk-like-ted/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Recently retired Senior Chief Yeoman, Coby Turner joins the podcast to talk about retirement. He and Damo highlight how they met as CPO Season leads for their respective commands. He details a rare story about how the Navy messed up his government name at MEPS. The pod has a small discussion about planning and executing a CPO Initiation season. Coby reflects on what made him choose to retire when he did. He had a rough retirement year which led to some awesome breakthroughs. Coby was finally able to deal with a past loss as he received therapy during his retirement process. With a son who has recently enlisted in the Navy, Coby talks about how it feels to pass down the legacy of service. The gang plays a game of “This or That.” These and more topics are covered in this episode of the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Mississippi stand up! In this episode Damon and Damo begin by discussing five (Navy related) things that they are thankful for. Damo exposes himself once again with a story of how he passed out in the club in Hawaii and what he regrets most about it. He also discuss his “best 8 days” in his career and his own personal story about depression. Damon provides predictions for the Mike Tyson/ Roy Jones Jr. fight and provides a story about a time that he got into trouble (finally!). After a brief discussion about human trafficking, the goats are joined (via phone call) by ABCM Alquin Parker for a deep dive on the CPO board process. From how to submit to be a board member to what to submit in your package, they discuss everything “CPO Boards” and try to leave no stone unturned. 

Links and more information:

4 Depression Symptoms

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.military.com/spouse/military-life/4-symptoms-of-depression.html/amp

Cisco (Fact Sheet)

http://www.bumwine.com/cisco.html

Courts-Martials Explained 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.military.com/benefits/military-legal-matters/courts-martial-explained.html/amp

CPO Selection Board Page (NPC)

https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/boards/reserveenlisted/Pages/CPOSelectionBoards.aspx

Damo’s Book of the Week

A Promised Land (written by Barack Obama)

https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/a-promised-land-unabridged/id1540585069

Movies Reviewed: The Outpost

https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_outpost_2020

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0 

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

[Recorded on 31 October 2020] Damo gives his reflection about his most recent periodic evaluation. Can children safely “Halloween” during COVID? The Goats debate the topic. Damon and Damo both reflect on their experiences with submitting officer packages. Damo takes a stand against restaurant that act “stingy” with Veterans Day sales. Is staying in for shore duty really worth it? The guys discuss programs that the military offers that they personally were able to take advantage of. Main topics: The past, present, and future and the mark they believe the next generation will leave the Navy with. Damon talks about his issues with the CMEO and DAPA positions on ships and much more…

Links and more information:

Matthew Burns (STA-21): 

https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2392653/a-seaman-to-admiral-story/

Seaman to Admiral-21 Program:

https://www.netc.navy.mil/Commands/Naval-Service-Training-Command/STA-21/

LDO Program:

https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/officer/communitymanagers/active/ldo_cwo/Pages/applicantinformation.aspx

Thrift Savings Plan: 

https://www.tsp.gov/

USMAP Homepage:

https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/

VA Loans:

https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/

Tuition Assistance:

https://www.military.com/education/money-for-school/tuition-assistance-ta-program-overview.html

GI Bill:

https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/

Damon's Book of the Week: 

A Country Boy to City Boy (Written by James Cooley) 

https://www.amazon.com/Country-Boy-City-Journey-that/dp/163393909X#:~:text=COUNTRY%20BOY%2C%20CITY%20BOY%20is,feast%20no%20one%20should%20miss!

Damo's Book of the Week: 

Extreme Ownership (Written by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin) 

https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Ownership-U-S-Navy-SEALs/dp/1250067057

Movie Reviewed: Crimson Tide

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

OSC Maurice Gibson, also known as Sir Lunchtime, joins the pod to chop it up with Damo in the absence of Damon and Tish. Though Sir Lunchtime is a food influencer by night, his day job is as an inspector for the Afloat Training Group (ATG) in San Diego. They start the discussion by discussing the role of inspectors and the impact they can have at a command. We can’t get together without at least bringing up the latest news about Sean “P. Diddy” Combs. Damo talks about two new NAVADMINS, one about uniforms and the other about BAH. The BAH NAVADMIN is a positive change for Sailors who have to execute duties in a Geographical Bachelor status. Is Geobaching always a choice? There are hundreds of new predatory lending apps putting junior Sailors in the same hole that the payday loans used to put us in. Do we need more financial literacy in the Navy, or do we need to attend the training and webinars that are already being offered? Sir Lunchtime discusses how he started doing food reviews. The guys rewind a bit and discuss what made OSC Gibson join the Navy and stay in, as well as what he learned from his biggest moment of adversity. The guys discuss some of their favorite foods in San Diego. Much love to our Filipino brothers and sisters. What are the logistics of putting together a food critique video? The guys discuss the San Diego food scene and what neighborhoods are the best places to get food from. How do you stay healthy as a food influencer? The guys discuss how physical and mental health are closely related. Sir Lunchtime discusses finding his “why” and dream destinations for food. Should lunchtime be protected? Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please contact us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Catch up with Sir Lunchtime social media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sirlunchtime

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SIRLUNCHTIME

Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@sirlunchtime

Links From This Episode:

NAVADMIN 192/24: Basic Allowance for Housing Flexibility - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24192.txt?ver=WkKibwK4TQqFtQN3BYBsMA%3d%3d

NAVADMIN 194/24: Uniform Policy and Uniform Initiative Update - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2024/NAV24194.txt?ver=tntk-qYOrNWS1P0aE1tVhQ%3d%3d

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

On this episode, Damon and Damo catch up with each other by discussing what they've been doing in the past few weeks. They talk about the breaking news regarding the drone strike in Kabul, Afghanistan. They both share stories from their CPO Seasons and discuss September 11, 2001.

Remember to answer our two questions:

Where were you on September 11, 2001?

What noticeable changes did you experience in your career following the events of 9/11?

Send all responses to ptsfpodcast@gmail.com or comment on any of our social media networks. 

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Be sure to pick up a copy of Stephen’s book (available on March 7th, 2023 on Amazon); Life on the X: A Navy SEAL’s Guide to Meeting any Challenge with Courage, Confidence, and Readiness - https://stephendrum.com/book-page/

27-Year Navy SEAL Master Chief (SOCM) Stephen Drum (retired) joins this episode and speaks with the guys about the difference between the “best” and the “greatest.” He reflects on his upbringing in the special warfare community from young Sailor, to a leader in his community. He breaks down the training process for Navy Seal candidates. Damo asks Stephen what he would do in a “Liam Neeson Movie” style scenario. If you’re in the Navy, we are sure that you heard of the “Warrior Toughness” program. This program was aimed to help Sailors with the ability to persevere and perform under danger and high stress scenarios. You’ve probably heard that this program was developed by a chaplain, psychologist, and a SEAL. Well Stephen is the SEAL that was a part of that Warrior Toughness development group. The trio discusses the importance of family and shows some love to military spouses. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Connect with Stephen Drum:

Website - www.stephendrum.com

Book - Life on the X. A Navy SEAL’s Guide to Meeting any Challenge with Courage, Confidence, and Readiness - https://stephendrum.com/book-page/  (Available on Amazon on March 7th, 2023)

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/stephen.drum.967

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-drum-643695135/?trk=people-guest_profile-result-card_result-card_full-click

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stephen.drum/

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

Damon is back and in full effect! He didn’t actually go anywhere, however, he explains why he hasn’t been very “long in the tooth.” Damo adds another installation to his epic saga about human feces. We apologize in advance for the content and we are working as hard as we can to ensure this never happens again. A huge shoutout to Quizlet for helping service members worldwide with “studying” and achieving success in respective areas. There are so many things going on the month and the guys highlight a few of them. Coming off another inspiration “Hero of the Week,” the guys dissect the notion of making peace with death. Habitability has been a major ‘eyesore’ for the military in 2022; is this a new issue or are we finally speaking about it? Damo goes on his routine passionate rant about “caring.” Are you brave enough to be the outcast? Since it is Mental Health Awareness Month, the fellow take the time out to do a “Sanity Check’ on one another. Are we trading “Sailor Proof” for “DIY?” HARP, OHARP, and SEMINAR are outlined. These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More Information From This Episode:

Hometown Area Recruiting Program (HARP) (NAVADMIN 105/22) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22105.txt?ver=BGVg0zkzrk7AD3qE6F-GCg%3d%3d and https://www.cnrc.navy.mil/

Navy Coach Program (NAVADMIN 109/22) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22109.txt?ver=IfEGUk9eQoBEmXn-bDXjDg%3d%3d

Hero of the Week: 

Sergeant Joseph Charles Rodriguez - https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/joseph-c-rodriguez

WATCH: Band of Brothers (Complete Series Review) (Feat. @MallyDangerous) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPNHAomJRjU

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Let’s start this one with a little bit of transparency. Who the hell messes up the SAPR acronym anyway? Damo clears the air on his fumble. CY257 Active Duty E8 and E9 quotas are out. Good luck and well wishes to all. Do you want to become a hitman? Well, that’s as easy as hitting up a website and putting your application in. Just call the prison and ask the Tennessee Air National Guardsman that tried to do it. For this week’s “Do Better” segment, Damon talks about his issues while requesting his upcoming travel event. How does an increase in Family Separation pay sound? The guys talk through the culture of “Spot Checks” and discuss the importance doing it right. Was CPO 365 more effective than Sailor 360? The guys discuss character traits that they have that they know may piss other people off. Should everyone be thanked for their service? The guys discuss what advice they would give a “younger version” of themselves if they were joining the Navy today. What does Damon and Damo consider a “successful” tour? Round 3 of answering questions from listeners. This time it’s about approaching the CPO mess post initiation season. What happened to our “Movie of the Week”? Damon and Damo discuss why they haven’t been reviewing movies/tv shows and discuss plans moving forward. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Active Duty E8 CY257 Quotas:

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Boards/Active%20Duty%20Enlisted/Documents/FY-24%20AD/FY24_AE8_QUOTAS.pdf?ver=oMHGZiBDDraScP0qpmDJNg%3d%3d

Active Duty E9 CY 257 Quotas:

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Boards/Active%20Duty%20Enlisted/Documents/FY-24%20AD/FY24_AE9_QUOTAS.pdf?ver=OOlSSCpu8zPbftn7yT_bJw%3d%3d

Guardsman Applies to Be a Hitman:

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2023/04/14/help-wanted-guardsman-applies-to-be-hitman-gets-arrested-instead/

Book of the Week:

Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity (Peter Attia, MD/ Bill Gifford)

https://peterattiamd.com/outlive/

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

This episode starts with Damon getting a much deserved Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). The trio plays a little catch up to see how each other’s weeks were. Damo details the day that he spent with MCPON James Honea. Listen to Damo’s “bacon” story. Are we counting this against him or not? Tisha details her bittersweet Big Bear vacation. The trio discusses what they would do if the weren’t in the Navy. Do Better: Damo defines the term “goatfishing.” Damon explains to all the frugal Divos and Dept Heads, that it is not your money. Nasty Chief’s mugs are discussed again. Do you prefer a clean or dirty cup? Damon and Tisha shares sea stories of mugs being cleaned without express permission from their owners. Tisha talks about a personal issue going on at her command. Damo complains about “Big Navy” requiring essays for every little thing that you want to pursue. Why are CMDCMs so damn wise? The team gives Command Master Chiefs their flowers. With Tisha and Damo both going through major transitions in their careers, Damon asks them what their biggest concerns are. The purpose of having a board for “Sailor of the Year” is dissected. Are qualifications easier to attain when people are needed to stand the respective watches? Damon confesses his guilt regarding qualifying people before they were ready. The crew reflects on some things they regret from their last sea tours. Are too many Sailors being held accountable for things that they were never trained to do? With the recent shooting of Ralph Yarl, by 84-year old Andrew Lester, the team discusses guns, violence, and the state of the country when it comes to these topics. Congrats to Stephen Drum on the release of his book, “Life On The X” in audio format. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Ralph Yarl Shot by 84-Year Old Homeowner: https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/19/us/kansas-city-ralph-yarl-shooting-wednesday/index.html

Book of the Week:

Life On The X (Stephen Drum) - https://stephendrum.com/book-page/#

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

**THIS EPISODE WAS RELEASED 1 JANUARY 2021**

Andamo sits down with his wife, Angelene, to discuss all things 2021. They talk about early pain and late victories. They also discuss their top movies, tv shows, and albums (or artists, or songs, or whatever) of the year.

If you enjoyed this episode, please remember to review, like, subscribe, comment, and share.  All social media for the Fan Room: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

[Recorded on 18 October 2020] Damon and Damo catch up on new beginnings for Damon and exactly what goes down during INSURV. The Goats debate the CNP Vice Admiral's message regarding beards in the Navy and Damon declares himself "An Official Beard Hater." What is the worst watch in the Circadian Rhythm? "Boat Boos" are defined and addressed. Operational stress and suicide awareness are the main topics of this episode. Damon and Damo have an honest discussion about handling Sailors dealing with stress and provide different outlets for all Sailors in need of assistance with Mental Health, and much more on the debut episode.

Damon's Book of the Week: The Dichotomy of Leadership (Written by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin)

Damo's Book of the Week: A Knock at Midnight (Written by Brittany K. Barnett)

Movie of the Week: Antwone Fisher

Introduction music produced by Lim0

Make sure to drop a review, subscribe and comment. 

Have you ever had a Navy nightmare? Damo starts this episode recapping a nightmare that he had during his first week at the Senior Enlisted Academy. Damon details his recent issues with a Wendy’s crew member. Happy Pride Month! The guys discuss the “101 critical days of summer” and why it is important. Damon talks about attending his youngest son’s eight grade graduation. Please hit us up and let us know where all the good restaurants in Rhode Island are. What is the most valuable rate in the Navy? Damon and Damo provide their “MVP Rates.” The Navy is naming a ship after one of our recent “Hero’s of the Week” and we can’t be more excited! Is there a reason for the big uproar about the Pride Month Image that was posted by the Marine Corps Instagram account? If so, please let us know. The guys introduce a new segment called “Do Better.” if you have a story about a person or system that you believe needs to do better, please reach out to us so that we can talk about it on the podcast. NAVADMIN 124/22 has been released and there are a few more uniform and grooming updates. Damo finally opens up about why it’s important for young servicemembers to take care of their feet. Sexual harassment claims are taken out of Commanders hands and are forced to be sent off of the ship. The guys discuss study habits and practices for qualifications and advancement. Multiple aspects of poor leadership is discussed following the ALNAV 036/22 directed towards leadership and accountability issues. These and more topics are discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More Information From This Episode:

Marine Corps Pride Month Backlash

https://taskandpurpose.com/analysis/marine-corps-pride-month-social-media/

NAVADMIN 124/22 (Uniform policy changes) 

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22124.txt?ver=SrSTuGnrzwJ5drCRdZML6g%3D%3D

Sexual Harassment out of Commander’s hands

https://taskandpurpose.com/news/navy-marine-corps-harassment-claims-commanders/

NAVY COOL

https://www.cool.osd.mil/usn/

Advance-To-Position Program

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2019/NAV19230.txt?ver=HSt0_L4vA3YZ8UkXLFnMVQ%3D%3D

Do Better:

Dying Veteran Denied Treatment

https://www.navytimes.com/veterans/2022/05/31/va-hospital-denied-emergency-care-to-dying-vet-because-staff-couldnt-verify-his-military-service/

Hero of The Week:

Senior Chief Britt Kelly Slabinski

https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/britt-k-slabinski

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Good To Great (Jim Collins)

https://www.harpercollins.com/products/good-to-great-jim-collins?variant=32116997292066

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

'Permission to Speak Freely' presents... Oh, By The Way

'Oh, By The Way' is a short extension of an episode where Damon and Damo call a friend, mentor, or subject matter expert (SME) for more detail into something that may have been mentioned in a previous episode. 

In Coyote Brown, Damon and Damo speak with friend and fellow Chief; Matt Rivas (GSMC) and his wife, Kelcy. They discuss the Rivas' family business, Steel Beach Designs and talk about a few more personal thoughts. 

Parental advisory is a MUST. The language used in this episode is explicit. 

For more information on Steel Beach Designs and Matt & Kelcy Rivas (see below):

Steel Beach Designs Instagram Page - https://www.instagram.com/steelbeachdesigns/

Matthew Rivas Instagram Page - https://www.instagram.com/_m_rivas1/

Kelcy Rivas Instagram Page - https://www.instagram.com/kelcy_r/

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks:

https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

MUCS Jeremy “JB” Bustillos joins Damo and Tish. He’s a 27-year Senior Chief Petty Officer whose outside Navy accomplishments include tours in multiple major arenas, including Madison Square Garden and a No. 1 selling Blues album. Coming off of a season to celebrate, there are always those we must also mourn. Fire in LA and snow in the northeast; the team covers some of the major weather stories of the season. What would you put in your “emergency preparedness kit”? Where were you during the “Great Toilet Paper War” of 2020? Some Bidet stuff starts, but Damo quickly exits the conversation. Should temporary housing be available for Sailors who receive BAH but need to look for housing after they report to a command? Damo urges leaders to stop holding mandatory events on holidays. ALNAV 001/25 was recently released. We will discuss changes in a bit more length in our next episode. JB clears up some misconceptions about advancement in the MU rating. Is it difficult to crossrate to become a Navy musician? What instruments have Damo played in his life? Does Tisha have a musical background? How’s MU A-School? What jobs do Navy Musicians pursue after they retire? Do musicians get in trouble for making mistakes during performances? How do MUs compete for evaluations? Tish and JB discuss their favorite personal music moments. JB talks about a few of his “worst days” as a Navy musician. Damo asks JB about his accomplishments outside of his military uniform. JB expounds on his career path and talks about his family of seven. He speaks about the most impactful commands he’s been to in his 27-year career. How long does it take an MU to make Chief? Will the Senior Enlisted Marketplace be beneficial for Navy musicians? Damo talks about whether he has any plans when it comes to music. JB joins the  #DoBetter segment.

Follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode

Jeremy “JB” Bustillos’ Social Media & More:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jbharpnsax/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jbharmonica/

Navy.mil - https://www.c7f.navy.mil/band/band-leadership/assistant-director/

Jeremy’s Podcast ‘Same As It Ever Was’ - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/same-as-it-ever-was/id1504319945

Book of the Week:

Lead Like Lasso (Marnie Stockman, Ed.D & Nick Coniglio) - https://www.leaditlikelasso.com/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

[Recorded on 14 November 2020] The fellas acknowledge all the listeners and viewer since the PTSF “Launch Day” and respond to a few questions from listeners.  Damo asks Damon what kind of inspector he plans to be.  Damo gives a PSA on Powerpoints. Who really likes those things anyway? The Goats discuss the results of the recent President election and congratulate Kamala Harris on making history. They touch on working as a military member under a President that you may not particularly agree with.  Congrats to Sydney Barber on becoming the Naval Academy’s first black woman Brigade Commander.   Tired of squinting to see rank tabs on the Type III NWUs? The Navy has instituted a change that has been heavily debated since the announcement; the Goats give their takes on the update. The two discuss “smokers” and Damon shares one of the craziest experiences that he witnessed in a Repair Locker. Navy Seal “winning.” Main topics: Diversity at the naval academy, importance of diversity training and the “Fat Leonard” scandal. These topics plus many more on this week’s episode.

Links and more information:

Steel Beach Designs: 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/SteelBeachDesigns?fbclid=IwAR2vo4GkvZRqWzG7UqxYFMIVlXSIqvnU_cdfTKrQhfN9PFreiAvwlp50PBc

Sydney Barber: 

https://www.npr.org/2020/11/19/936638167/the-1st-black-female-brigade-commander-at-naval-academy-i-have-the-heart-to-do-i

Military Pay Charts:

https://militarybenefits.info/2021-military-pay-charts/

Alternate Rank Tab:

https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/10/30/sailors-will-now-have-an-alternative-rank-insignia-option-for-navy-woodland-cammies/

Navy Seals Nigeria Hostage: Seal Team 6 (Oct 31): 

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2020/10/31/us-forces-rescue-american-hostage-in-nigeria/

Midshipman Racist Post: 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.capitalgazette.com/education/naval-academy/ac-cn-chase-standage-naval-academy-lawsuit-20201001-ucldd5yhxfb4rcljjdt6rc2h6y-story.html%3foutputType=amp

Diversity training & Task Force One:

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/11/06/navy-orders-halt-diversity-training-discrimination-study-will-continue.html/amp

Fat Leonard Scandal:

https://timesofsandiego.com/military/2020/10/30/former-navy-chief-petty-officer-sentenced-for-role-in-fat-leonard-bribery-scheme/amp/

Damon's Book of the Week: 

Building A StoryBrand (Written by Donald Miller)

https://buildingastorybrand.com/

Damo's Book of the Week: 

Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter (Written by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson)

https://www.amazon.com/Hustle-Harder-Smarter-Curtis-Jackson/dp/006295380X

Honorable Mention: 

Pre-Order Intermission II: A Poetry Collection (written by Alana M. Abernethy)

https://www.alanamabernethy.com/

Movie Reviewed: Lone Survivor

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Damo and Tisha are joined by Naval Flight Officer LCDR Frank “Siri” Bonner for an insightful and inspiring episode. Fresh off completing his PRT, Damo kicks things off by sharing how it went down. How did LCDR Bonner earn the call sign “Siri”? Why did he choose the path from enlisted Sailor to officer? Frank dives into his journey, from growing up in South Central L.A. and dispelling common misconceptions about the neighborhood in the 90s to breaking barriers as he transitioned into the Navy.

LCDR Bonner also reflects on his time as a recruiter in one of California’s wealthiest areas, sharing how he overcame challenges and thrived in the role. Throwing it back, Frank recalls the days of Blackberrys, his time as a DJ at Howard University during hip hop’s blog era, and his impressive rise from Junior Enlisted to Chief, Chief to Officer, and Officer to Howard before returning to the Wardroom. He opens up about adversity in flight school, the unique dynamics LDOs navigate early on, and how the internet has reshaped the sense of community within the military.

Other highlights include Frank’s favorite Navy moment, advice for maintaining a strong relationship during deployment, and a lively debate on whether Chiefs should be technical experts. Damo also shares his thoughts on the “lost generation” in today’s Navy and asks if recruiters are equipped with the right tools to inspire in 2024. Siri wraps up with his “Do Better” and “Book of the Week” segments.

Don’t miss this packed episode, and be sure to follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube for more great content.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode:

Siri’s Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/kingsiri06/

Books of the Week:

Work The System (Sam Carpenter) https://www.workthesystem.com/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon and Damo are joined by CMDCM Joseph “Jay” Montenero. After a short discussion about Facebook hackers and being a Good Samaritan, the fellows get right to it. The trio discusses everything from the day to day role of a Command Master Chief to if CMC Montenero ever had to deal with a “road program” Chief. The “China Lake Ninja” story resurfaces and Jay discusses some of the other weird things that happen on “the biggest base in the middle of nowhere.” Ever wonder how CMCs pick orders? Why do impromptu meetings always seem to happen at lunch? These and more topics discussed on this episode of ‘PTSF.’ Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. 

Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our episode of “Don’t Give Up The Ship”:

https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/inaNUmGERpCiNzs89

Links and More Information From This Eposode:

Damo’s Book Suggestion: 

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom 

https://www.miguelruiz.com/the-four-agreements

Movie Reviewed (Television Series): 

Band of Brothers Ep. 4: Replacements

https://www.hbo.com/band-of-brothers/episodes/4-replacements

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

In this jam-packed episode, Damon and Damo recap their weeks and Damo owes a few people some apologies. A question from a listener leads to a very inspired conversation about being competitive within your rank (peer) group. Salute to Captain Kimberly Johnson Jones, the first African-American woman to assume the duties as Reactor Officer of a nuclear powered aircraft carrier. The brother of a marine killed during the evacuation of Afghanistan committed suicide at annual memorial of the passing of his brother. What’s one change that the Navy has made that you wish they didn’t? Damo has an interesting “Do Better” segment. Y’all already know we had to talk about this $115k giveaway. Let’s take a deeper dive into A2P. This leads to a conversation about college tuition assistance which leads to a conversation about De’reek Banks (a modern day “Robin Hood”?) The Marine Corps is doing away with “tape” for calculating BCA and modernizing the process using advanced technology. Damon and Damo discuss hospitality and greeting strangers. Damo brings up a thought about the criteria to be an Officer in the Navy and contemplates the value of a degree when it comes to ability to lead. These and more topics are discussed on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this Episode

Hero of the Week:

PO1 Charles Jackson French - https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/people-african-american-history/charles-jackson-french-1919-1956/

Brother of Marine Killed Commits Suicide - https://www.foxla.com/news/brother-of-marine-killed-in-afghanistan-withdrawal-commits-suicide-at-memorial-for-fallen-service-member

Dine, Dash, and Helo Trash - https://www.foxnews.com/us/brother-marine-killed-afghanistan-withdrawal-commits-suicide-memorial-service-fallen-soldier

$115,000 Incentives for Veterans - https://www.wtkr.com/news/u-s-navy-offers-more-than-100k-in-bonuses-loan-repayment-for-future-sailors-prior-servicemembers

Senior Enlisted Advance-To-Position Pilot Program (NAVADMIN 178/22) - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22178.txt?ver=1LkpP-DwDANeMZ7Q5gg4EA%3d%3d

Marines Modernizing Body Fat Computation Standards - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/08/23/corps-will-stop-punishing-marines-based-tape-test-start-using-modern-scanners-measure-body-fat.html?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR2nSZ_TqLlREtkCjLBrLNLNVZDSuW1opio5ENuTGYUgzoZZ1nR38HxOd1c#Echobox=1661279961

Student Loans/Disabled Vet Scam - https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/georgia-man-student-loan-disabled-veterans-scam

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action (Simon Sinek)

https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/

Movie Review of the Week:

TV Series:  The Terminal List | Ep 3 | Consolidation 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HYNH8TK/?ref=DVM_US_DL_SL_GO_AST_TLIST22_mkw_sM0XZ351s-dc&mrntrk=pcrid__slid__pgrid_1239149879340397_pgeo_90209_x__ptid_kwd-77447083494618:loc-190

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0 

On This Episode:

Damon and Damo are joined by Chicago Attorney; India Rios, Esq. The conversation starts off with a quick reflection on the verdict from the Kyle Rittenhouse case. India talks her upbringing in Youngstown, Ohio and everything that led to her joining the U.S. Navy. The fellas dive into her career, including some experiences with sexual harassment and bias views. Her journey took a major turn when she decided to separate from the Navy. Overcoming fears and other people’s negative projections, she eventually separated and pursued a career as a lawyer. 

This episode is dedicated to all of the Sailors that have realized that they will not make the Navy a career. Hopefully this will help you know that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you came from, your dreams are attainable. Serving the country is a great responsibility and your service will always be appreciated and your story will be written by you. Keep on writing it! Enough said from us, listen to this episode now! Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Podcast’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on Youtube. 

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

New merchandise has been released. Get it now: https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/

Links and more information from this episode:

VII-XI Law Group (Linktree)

https://linktr.ee/711_Law_Group

VII-XI Law Group (Instagram)

https://www.instagram.com/711_law_group/?hl=en

India Rios, Esq.

https://www.instagram.com/the_professional_hoodrat_esq/

India’s Book Suggestions: 

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! (Written by Robert T. Kiyosaki)

https://www.richdad.com/

The Apple Experience

https://www.carminegallo.com/books/the-apple-experience-2/

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

Damon, Tisha, and Damo give their thoughts on the movie 'The Hurt Locker,' directed by Kathryn Bigelow The film stars Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackey.

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

First off, Merry Christmas!

The guys kick off this special holiday episode with Christmas vibes! From a holiday song to discussing their Christmas memories as they’ve transitioned from junior enlisted to senior enlisted Sailors. Oh my, how time changes things. Damon and Damo reminisce about their grandmothers who are no longer here. Remember, to cherish your family and cherish these moments. The guys play a round of “All I Want For Christmas.” A lot of new movies have premiered that are worth a little conversation about. Are there any good ones? Are there any really bad movies that were recently released? The rapper, Scarface just did a Tiny Desk concert, accompanied by Mike Dean that provided another classic hip-hop moment for Mr. Brad Jordan. A listener asked for thoughts on why people commit acts of stolen valor. Damo asked if he was wrong about a particular decision he made (or didn’t make) on his last duty day. Go Navy, Beat Army - but we gotta win one? What happened to eNAVFIT? On a recent episode of The Joe Budden Podcast, military housing, BAH, and military came up. The guys decided to address the commentary from that conversation. Damon asks Damo what is his “first take” as a brand new father. Is Navy Federal favoring White applicants over African American applicants for home loans? Do we have time for some end-of-the-year “Do Betters”? What’s this story about a Soldiers on Fort Carson not being able to make appointments before 0900? An update from the last episode regarding the Squadron Commodore of PHIBRON 5 clears up a lot of speculation.  Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Restricted Hours on Fort Carson - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/11/29/fort-carson-officer-restricts-hours-mental-health-care-and-other-services-make-time-physical.html

PHIBRON 5 Commodore fired - https://coronadotimes.com/news/2023/12/06/navy-squadron-commodore-fired-after-thanksgiving-eve-dui-hit-and-run/

Second Drill Sergeant found dead in 8 days - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/12/18/second-fort-jackson-drill-sergeant-found-dead-base-month.html?utm_content=buffercc952&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwAR2JVyRkFLIxmUX3YGUF9nyg7dKUKg0FC4lgQ69l6i8ccUI1UD8vx18GI6o_aem_AcThacBMkKI2gDCUcJDcDJ8xIWWtq8WVsj1RDmBL4aDgxxtug_ssstropS4mabo5rdc

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Talk Like Ted (Carmine Gallo) - https://www.carminegallo.com/books/talk-like-ted/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Intro Music:

Artist: Robin Thicke

Song: Merry Little Christmas

Album: A ROC Christmas

Label: Roc Nation Records LLC

IMPORTANT:

The holidays aren’t happy for everyone. It’s okay if you aren’t feeling your greatest this season. Please remember that if you are thinking about harming yourself or others, reach out and talk about it. The following are resources if you are considering self-harm or having suicidal ideations:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK(8255)

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

Crisis Text Line: Text CONNECT to 741741

Contains an excerpt of The Joe Budden Podcast, Patreon exclusive episode, “Freezer Burn.”

Congratulations to all newly selected LDOs and CWOs!

Damon and Damo begin this episode on a serious note, shouting out all of the brave service members that have been called to action (in transit to Europe) in light of the recent events in Ukraine. They talk about war and give their thoughts on if they feel it is a necessary option in our modern age. Damo grips about the cost of Netflix and streaming services as a whole. Do Engineers show up to Duty Section turnover? Damo explores the topic with a funny story about being motivated by a First Class Petty Officer. The guys discuss the importance of taking care of yourself. There is also a discussion about competitive nature and pride in performance. 

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Damon and Damo are back with another packed episode, diving into some of the biggest stories making waves. They kick things off with a moment of respect for Angie Stone before jumping into the controversial outcome of Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ latest fight. Was it really a loss? The guys break down the fight, the backlash, and what it means for Tank’s future—especially with retirement talk already in the mix. On the military front, leadership transparency takes center stage. Are top military officials failing to communicate the reasons behind major decisions? The guys discuss why clear communication is critical for service members and how secrecy can impact morale. The episode also explores reports that China is developing “super soldiers”, raising concerns about the future of warfare and whether enhanced soldiers could become a reality. The transgender military ban is back in the news as policy changes continue to impact service members. Meanwhile, the guys question how long military podcasts and social media content will be allowed, with increasing restrictions on active-duty personnel sharing their perspectives online. They also dive into leadership culture, discussing whether calling someone “boss” is a term of respect or just reinforcing unnecessary hierarchy. These topics and more are covered in this episode of Permission To Speak Freely.

📢 Follow ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for more great content.

💬 Want your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode? Email us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Links and more from this episode:

What Did You Do Last Week Emails https://www.cbsnews.com/news/second-what-did-you-do-last-week-goes-out-some-federal-workers/

Trump Zelensky Oval Office Clash https://time.com/7263376/trump-zelensky-oval-office-clash-us-lawmakers-react/

DoD Social Media Scrub https://defensescoop.com/2025/02/27/dod-memo-scrub-dei-content-across-websites-social-media-sean-parnell/

Transgender Troops Prepare for Military Ban https://www.newsweek.com/transgender-military-trump-hegseth-pentagon-defense-ban-2037930

LDO/CWO Results https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2025/NAV25041.txt?ver=RRmMbnSX7Cx8T2VylUNBhw%3d%3d

Gene Hackman RIP https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/02/us/gene-hackman-betsy-arakawa-santa-fe/index.html

Healthcare Flexible Spending Account https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/flexible-spending-accounts/

Angie Stone RIP https://apnews.com/article/angie-stone-singer-tributes-d5df19e384b03f1fd4094e11321ff4ed

Gervonta “Tank” Davis Fight Controversy Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Fight Ends in Controversy

China’s Development of “Super Soldiers” China Conducts Tests to Create Enhanced Soldiers

🎶 Additional Credits: PTSF “Theme Music” – Produced by Lim0

📌 Subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast!

Have you ever been in the head on the toilet - never mind, let’s not even get into that one. It’s only right to start this episode with a #DoBetter. Damo has smoke for Amazon giving away janky products. Damon want’s electric vehicles to be available for purchase. Medical is going for the “Do Better Record,” causing Tisha all kinds of problems while dealing with one of her children’s medical issue. The three discussed Air Force General Mike Minihan’s statements about potential war with China that went viral and made the Shade Room. A marine in Japan who refused the COVID-19 vaccine is in the brig facing new allegation. Did she do anything wrong? Is whatever she did considered “Brig-worthy”? Why are we so behind on technology? Is there a such thing as too much information? Don’t you hate when you “ask the Chief” and the Chief tells you to “Go figure it out.” The PTSF Crew gives their versions of “advice” to young Sailors. Damo introduces a game called “Pick One” These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this episode:

Air Force General Predicts War in 2025 https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/us-air-force-general-predicts-war-china-2025-memo-rcna67967

Marine Who Refused Vaccine in Brig https://www.stripes.com/theaters/asia_pacific/2023-01-23/marine-arnett-iwakuni-japan-vaccine-8866784.html

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

The guys start by analyzing the latest in hip-hop beef. One of the Sailors who stormed the Captial is asking for a lighter sentence so that he can continue service in the military. Should he be awarded that opportunity? An Army Reserve Major has pleaded guilty to scamming Gold Star Families in millions of dollars. The rest of the episode is dedicated to the people, places, and things that impacted Damon and Damo throughout their lives and careers in the Navy. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

This episode contains as snippet of "SHED TEARS (Feat. Lena Bird Myles) (Killer Mike & Mozzy)"

WARNING: Explicit language throughout this episode. Do not listen with children around.

Tisha is running late. Damo had a few drinks. Damon will be the “Designated Driver’ for this ride! The guys get caught up on why they’ve been missing for a few weeks. Spoiler Alert: Blame Damon. Haha. Are HTs the DCs big bros? Recruiters were ordered to work 6 days a week but that was quickly shut down. A Class “C” fire was recently reported on the USS Abraham Lincoln, but why? Should rank “have its privileges”? Damo has an update (and more jokes) about the CMDCM that told his command to “clap like you’re in a strip club.” Is the “Division in the Spotlight” program necessary or a waste of time? Damon asks when will we have a woman be selected as the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy? Should 100% disability be awarded to every veteran that served over 20 years? The crew talks about their initial experiences when they checked into their first ships and walked into berthings for the first time. This leads to a conversation about women vs men berthing cleanliness. Damo reflect on his “shart” story. Is there a such thing as “too much liberty”? A 14 year old girl was found in a Marine barracks on Camp Pendleton. The family is alleging a human trafficking attempt. The opposition is claiming that she lied about her age. A Sailor was caught trying to engage in sexual relations with a minor. An armed Navy veteran was recently arrested near the Obama’s home. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Aircraft Carrier Fire - https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/military/story/2023-06-29/fire-abraham-lincoln-san-diego-bay

14-Year Old Girl Found in Barracks - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/07/11/14-year-old-girl-found-pendleton-barracks-may-have-met-marine-tinder-new-documents-show.html

Fort Polk NCO Charged - https://www.stripes.com/branches/army/2023-06-02/fort-polk-nco-child-porn-adultery-10316556.html

Jan 6th Rioter Arrest Near Obama's Home - https://www.militarytimes.com/flashpoints/extremism-disinformation/2023/07/07/jan-6-rioter-arrested-near-obamas-home-is-navy-veteran/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Seems like we’ve been doing a lot of random things. We hope you’ve been enjoying some of the extra content. Damon is back from vacation and fired up to get back in the gym. Damo is on a pescatarian diet so he’s gonna need some motivation from all of us because he’s struggling already. Tisha had some things to take care of, but the guys have a special announcement to make. Was Damon really almost abducted in Fort Lauderdale, or was it some kind of “ride share” hustle going on? What’s going on in FL? Damon shares his vacation experience. The guys discuss “post leave energy.” What kind of “leave person” are you? Do you need time to adjust or are you giving it 100% on the day you return from an extended leave period. How do you accept criticism? Does the messenger matter sometimes? These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

PTSF “Theme Music” (Produced by Lim0)

Damon and Damo both enjoyed their Thanksgiving weeks in two completely different ways. Damon had an intimate meal with his family, even though his son Mark is missing due to mission requirements. Damo had a chance to visit his Grandfather in Florida and interview him about his life. Good luck to all E6’s getting ready for the E7 exam. But damn, why is the test right after the holiday break? We can never appreciate our audience enough. Thank you all so much for the love and appreciation. The holiday season can be a rough time for service members and their families. The guys take a moment to acknowledge that and provide a few resources for anyone in need. NAVADMIN 261/22 was just released and it’s a game changer for senior enlisted Sailors hoping to make Master Chief. The guys take a deep dive on the instruction, discussing how the feel about it, amongst other things. In a very personal conversation Damo challenges himself to a weight loss journey and asks for your help. Damon expresses how he feels about potentially retiring without making Master Chief. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Hero of the Week: Sergeant Major John Canley

https://mohmuseum.org/medal_of_honor/john-canley/

Links and More from this Episode:

NAVADMIN 259/22 Evaluation Manual Changes

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22259.txt?ver=9P5bAXs9rbeixpzOKvhOXg%3d%3d

NAVADMIN 261/22 Senior Enlisted Marketplace - E9 Billet Based Advancement

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2022/NAV22261.txt?ver=xB246uOEnCrphXz2S2UtMQ%3d%3d

Damo’s Book of the Week: The 5 Love Languages: Military Edition (Dr. Gary Chapman with Jocelyn Green)

https://5lovelanguages.com/store/the-5-love-languages-military-edition

Movie/TV Review: Echo 3

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12762512/

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

This episode is dedicated to Clayton Traywick. Fair Winds and Following Seas Brother.

About Our Guest:

A three-time National Collegiate Boxing Champion from the United States Naval Academy, Mike also served as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, with deployments to Afghanistan and Japan/the Philippines. Mike’s dedication to the community and his corporate partners unwaveringly reflects his military background. A champion for community, entrepreneurship, social impact, and economic development, Mike has established himself as a high-profile, relentlessly vocal advocate for Veterans and opportunity youth.

About The Episode:

Enterpreneur, Author, Community Leader and Marine Officer, Mike Steadman joins Damo and Tisha. They start the episode with a few deep, introspective questions before Mike Steadman makes a unique confession about military service and how competitive life can be after it’s over. Mike talks about his humble beginnings in Tyler, Texas, and how he made it to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Mike, Tisha, and Damo discuss growing up as “working poor.” What got Mike into boxing? Mike reflects on life as a midshipman and the power of networking. How much does rank matter on the battlefield as a Marine infantry Officer? What does it feel like to be relieved in combat? Mike talks about how hard being a Marine was for him. Damo tries his best to get a step-by-step guide to transitioning from active duty military to legitimate entrepreneur. Why did he pick Newark as the city to begin his journey as a community leader and boxing coach? How were the early days in Newark, when all he had was a “hope and a wish”? Mike details his experience with Stanford Ignite. He covers the “Trojan Horse” business strategy and how it led to adding companies like Spotify and WeWork to his resume. “Iron” Mike discusses his motivation behind teaching youth boxing in an inner city neighborhood. What are the pros and cons of crowdfunding? Why did Mike start his podcast, “Confessions of a Native Son,” and what is the inspiration behind the name? The guys discuss the current state of podcasts and controlling your algorithm. Mike covers his various businesses/projects to include his THRIVE program. Mike discusses his book, “Black Veteran Entrepreneur” and the importance of representation in the things we consume. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from the episode:

Mike’s Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iron-mike-steadman-%F0%9F%A5%8A%F0%9F%8F%B4%E2%80%8D%E2%98%A0%EF%B8%8F-3387586a/

MIke’s Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/ironmikesteadman/

Books of the Week:

The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18144590-the-alchemist

The Spook Who Sat by the Door (Sam Greenlee) - https://wsupress.wayne.edu/9780814349571/

Black Veteran Entrepreneur (Mike Steadman and Alana M. Abernethy) - https://www.amazon.com/Black-Veteran-Entrepreneur-Validate-Greatness-ebook/dp/B0BHV5799B?dplnkId=bbefd549-b286-4a2e-b99e-587f9a2cfa7e&nodl=1

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damon and Damo start this episode making excuses for why they haven’t released an episode for a while. Tisha joins the episode a little late and adds value to the “excuse” conversation.  Happy 248th birthday to the Navy! Rest well to all the Sailors we lost on the USS Cole on 12 Oct 2000. What the hell did Will Smith do to get him in the eternal dog house? Tisha has been doing some very interesting things in her free time. The trio talks about it. Damo talks about the plight of being new at a command when social events are going down. He also takes back his shoutout of the ‘Chow Call” app. Damon takes 60 seconds (or more) to talk about football. Simone Biles is back in the news for being the GOAT! Damo comes to the realization that his greatest weapon is Microsoft Outlook. Have you seen the one TikTok video? You know, where the Sailor is blatantly violating the Electrical Safety program. What are the rates/department that you do not want any smoke with? Is there any better access than the access to qualify people in RADM? The Navy will miss its recruiting goals all around the board this year, with active duty numbers being approximately 7,000 less than our goal. Tisha celebrates 100% disability. Do Better: Damon - The heads at the NGIS and Navy Lodge. Damo -  Adults with immature restroom habits. Tisha - a personal do better regarding a realtor in the San Diego area. How important is it to discuss big global news stories with your division? Damo questions the necessity of celebrities to speak out after every issue. A comment from the last episode sparks a conversation. What’s really going on with the Senior Enlisted Marketplace? Is “trust but verify” a dead figure of speech? A lot of comments were left under the CNOs video post about Suicide Prevention awareness. What exactly is it that we can do to help decrease ideations and suicides? A barrage of random questions ensues. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Chow Call Website - https://www.chowcall.net/glue/landing

Navy To Miss Recruiting Goals - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/09/14/navy-will-miss-recruiting-goals-by-7000-sailors-this-year/?

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Tuesday’s With Morrie (Mitch Albom) - https://www.amazon.com/Tuesdays-Morrie-Greatest-Lesson-Anniversary/dp/076790592X

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

The gang kicks off this episode with a quick “Wellness Check.” It’s been a while since the team connected so Damon, Damo, and Tisha all get caught up on each other’s Valentine’s Days. The NAVADMINs for CMDCM and CMDCS and CWO/LDO were released. Congrats to everyone that was selected. The Army’s “first full time rap artists just started basic training” but what do we think about it? Can you be a stripper and/or have an OnlyFans account if you’re in the Military? This leads to a story about a Command Master Chief that stepped down from his role after receiving some backlash for trying to be just a little too cool. More objects have been seen in the sky. Are we taking these reports seriously? The DoD released a warning against poppy seed intake due to traces of codeine in multiple servicemember’s urinalysis results. Is “physical fitness” in the Navy becoming less of a priority than ever before? NAVADMIN 042/23 is discussed. A larger conversation about leadership responsibility, personal responsibility, and overall health gets a deep dive. Another discuss about “EPs,” Damo plays “Devil’s Advocate” on a few takes. How far away are we from an African American and/or woman Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. The crew discusses maintaining personal relationships with your family while being in the Military. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this episode:

Army’s First Full Time Rappers

https://coffeeordie.com/army-rap-artists-basic/

Navy Stripper

https://popularmilitary.com/sailor-says-the-navy-doesnt-care-she-is-raking-in-thousands-while-dancing-at-night/

CMC Told Sailors to “Clap..”

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/05/07/navy-leader-who-told-sailors-clap-were-strip-club-has-resigned.html

DOD Poppy Seed Warning

https://media.defense.gov/2023/Feb/21/2003164614/-1/-1/1/POPPY-SEEDS-WARNING-MEMO-SIGNED-CONTACT-REDACTED.PDF

NAVADMIN 04/23: Physical Fitness Assessment Failure Reset

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23042.txt?ver=ydPsZ-hLizh4e4PjLGBCWQ%3D%3D

Damo’s Book of the Week:

The Creative Act: A Way of Being (Rick Rubin)

https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Act-Way-Being/dp/0593652886

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

Tish went to go see the new Beyoncé movie.  Of course, Damo has some pressure for her fandom. It’s commissioning ceremony season. Congratulations to everyone making their transitions! What’s a food you love that you weren’t introduced to until you joined the military? Damon shows up a little late and fires off from the jump! How old is too old for ‘Big Mama’ to be in the kitchen? Our President just celebrated his 81st birthday. The guys are all cheers but Tisha has some thoughts. Damo puts his B.O.O.K. on an indefinite pause. The trio catches up on each other’s weeks. Damo takes a moment to talk to the social media critics. This transitions into a conversation about a recent incident between the entertainer, T.I. and his son, King. The Navy is testing the idea of letting recruits use cell phones during basic training. Is this a good or a bad thing? Why are troops lying about their service to get girls? An update on Al Pacino and his “baby mama.” The Amphibious Squadron 5 Commodore was fired and the general public doesn’t know why. But, they definitely have a bunch of assumptions. Ivan Snook feels like mustangs shouldn’t exist. Is there any validity to his thoughts? Do Better: Damon doesn’t have a “Do Better” as he is finally appreciative of the Navy Lodge. Damo’s “do better” is him. He speaks about his lack of information for what he needs to do directly after having the baby. Damon discusses the Senior Enlisted Marketplace grading criteria and how he really feels about it. Why is the cell phone carrier required for leave requests? Damo expresses his current struggles with getting qualified on his ship. A few questions from Sailors about MAP, Evals, and a previous episode. These and more topics are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Recruits allowed cellphone usage in boot camp: https://m.facebook.com/story.php/?id=100064746698772&story_fbid=

Lying about your career to get a date is crazy: https://www.navytimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2023/12/01/why-some-troops-consider-military-service-a-red-flag-on-dating-apps/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_nt&fbclid=IwAR2vhplFm_D1LndCvSh9nbr05Nu744o9WUysD1Dr7mdAsoDI6rHQRla54IE_aem_Acd2_h_O9VE-Tr4hXK1r1ekmUvDckDhM0lmT545QUHsNYNLJvjlW8_FkJFJGLhheVYE

(Need Damon) Saw Pacino got hit with Child Support: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/al-pacino-agreed-pay-girlfriend-134809121.html

Amphibious Squadron 5 Commodore Fired: https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/12/02/navy-fires-amphibious-squadron-5-commodore/

Critics are saying that the Extremism training was a check in the box: https://www.militarytimes.com/flashpoints/extremism-disinformation/2023/11/30/extremism-stand-down-checked-a-box-with-no-lasting-result-critics-say/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_mct&fbclid=IwAR0hRx368iSYV6nZIkN2YwRExDz6rehX0ibmQb5-71L6wVB0qNYv5eJRlEQ_aem_AdWXx7f2LdtGLQT9UEb1IkJU_bGqpyVmxuqLV06f9zsL8aY6VRzpNxJs3C5odD-4y7g

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Red Rising (Pierce Brown) - https://www.amazon.com/Red-Rising-Book-ebook/dp/B00CVS2J80/ref=sr_1_1?nodl=1&adgrpid=1239149915018541&hvadid=77447036270080&hvbmt=bp&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=67036&hvnetw=s&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-77447104447034%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=20628_13426635&keywords=red+rising&qid=1701611709&sr=8-1&dplnkId=1f54d726-874a-4901-bba4-cd27b7c89676

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Damo and Tisha begin the episode discussing a comment they received on Instagram regarding “E4 and Junior” Sailors. A comment from a YouTube subscriber is highlighted and responded to. An Officer goes ballistic on a neighbor over trash cans. A 7th Fleet Officer was arrested for stealing sushi. A former Navy CO was killed during a child sex sting operation. A Commanding Officer was fired for making racist comments. A Chief was found guilty of espionage and is currently awaiting his sentence. Tisha and  Damo discuss adultery in the Navy, following a conversation on Facebook. Do Better: Ride share drop-offs at Naval Station Newport (Damo), Southwest Airlines seating process (Tisha). The Navy has authorized combat awards for recent Red Sea operations. Speaking of awards, would you prefer an award or a monetary reward? What does Tisha really think about Plantation Tours?  Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Officer Stealing Sushi - https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/society/general-news/20240420-181618/

Former CO Killed in Sex Sting - https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/seattle-child-sex-sting-meneley.amp

CO Fired for Racial Comments - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/04/22/former-uss-howard-co-was-fired-after-racially-harassing-comments/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_nt&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1LQZJBk9IYLlvWH8wpCgZH_CM2ugTOIRF3wOI4b_TPlLRmWqFcsGQQ-Rw_aem_AX_IpjdRV0-ZM-0DaHoSXpTbf8W9XpeGdXSCsxtVmuAxfJjZONg3Nnkz6O8hYx1cG3B4Mi3atdPCS67oMJtH0_Vq

Navy Chief Found Guilty of Espionage - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/04/24/navy-chief-found-guilty-of-attempted-espionage

Combat Awards for Red Sea Operations - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/04/25/navy-authorizes-combat-awards-and-devices-for-red-sea-operations/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

The guys start by getting caught up on how they bought in their New Year’s. Damon’s turning over his roles as he’s waiting to hear what his next command is. Damo talks about returning to work following an extended period of leave. He also talks about coming back and having to directly deal with adversity. The internet was set ablaze last week with the unsealed Jeffrey Epstein documents and Katt Williams’ viral interview. The crew of the USS Carney were awarded the Combat Action Ribbon for their actions in the Red Sea. The US Army has ended a policy that allows Soldiers to store vehicles and household goods for free while deployed. A new system promising to improve shipments of household goods has been delayed. Is it finally over for Fat Leonard? Royal Caribbean is currently hosting a 9-month cruise, which sounds crazy, but we pretty much do it all the time, with fewer perks. Do Better: The iPhone alarm/ electricians fighting over material ownership (Damo). Being more proactive with assignments from school (Damon). Do Better leads to a question about how we can prioritize, encourage, support, measure, and evaluate training. The guys break down OSTC and Vessel Exception, expounding on the concepts that were introduced in Ep. 96. What are some things an LCPO may want their Sailors to gain from the NJP process? Should Sailors always receive the same disciplinary reward if they committed the same offense or is there a case-by-case basis that should be considered? Damon and Damo reflect on the most useless pieces of equipment they ever had to use at work. Is the USN a “what have you done for me lately” organization? Is that Damon with the surprise book review? Let’s go! Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

USS Carney Sailors awarded for battling Houthi attacks - USS Carney sailors awarded for battling Houthi attacks in Red Sea

Army no longer storing cars for deployed Soldiers - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/12/27/army-no-longer-storing-cars-and-other-belongings-of-soldiers-free-while-theyre-deployed.html

New system to improve shipments of household goods - New system to improve shipments of troops’ household goods delayed

Fat Leonard is back in court - https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/courts/story/2024-01-04/fat-leonard-returns-san-diego-court

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Be The Dad She Needs You To Be (Dr. Kevin Leman) - https://www.christianbook.com/needs-indelible-imprint-father-leaves-daughters/kevin-leman/9780718097028/pd/097020

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Entrepreneur/Author/Writer Alana M. Abernethy joins the show again. This makes her our first official “Repeat Guest,” which is another first for Alana! She discusses her life now from where she was the last time we spoke. She talks about her reason for traveling and the joy of being able to travel with zero restrictions. She reflects on an incident with negative criticism due to the title of her recently release book, “Black Veteran Entrepreneur,” in which she co-wrote with Mike Steadman. She also talks about the “most important” message that she believes this book conveys. “Muting your femininity” gets a deep dive from Tisha and Alana. Alana reflects on being falsely accused of having a sexual relationship with a junior Enlisted Sailor (by that Sailor). Alana breaks down her Valentine’s Day plans for this year. What is Imposter Syndrome? How’s life with two mother figures? What does treating women unfairly look like? Damo asks Alana about a particular time in which she was accused of giving an African American women a position in her department “just because she was a black woman.”  How should Tish have taken that “The People’s Champ” comment? She’s on her own with the “Mafia” talk, huh? A discussion on culture and the importance of establishing connections with people whom you might not naturally gravitate towards. How does it feel to be asked to be the spokesperson for all African Americans? These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More from this episode:

Keep up with Alana Abernethy:

Get the book Now!

Black Veteran Entrepreneur (Authors: Mike Steadman and Alana Abernethy)

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Veteran-Entrepreneur-Validate-Greatness-ebook/dp/B0BHV5799B

Alana’s Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/alanamabernethy/

Alana’s Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/alanamabernethy

Alana's Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/Alana-M.-Abernethy/e/B0865T9T1C%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Listen to ‘Permission To Speak Freely” Episode 51: “Icebergs” (Feat. Alana Abernethy) now (well whenever you finish this one).

Intro Music Produced by Lim0

Additional Music Featured on this Episode: Song: Best Part  Performed by: Daniel Ceaser (Feat. H.E.R.) Album: Freudian Label: Golden Child Recording Distributed by: Tunecore

*Recorded in October 2020 in Damon's dining room in California - "Where it all started"*

You know how we always say that we started the podcast with the second episode that we recorded? Well, in commemoration of our 100th episode, we decided to finally release the episode that we thought was so bad that we didn't want you to hear it in the first place. 

We really hope you enjoy this. 

As always, keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

We have some exciting news! Virginia is giving away a FREE audiobook copy of ‘The Soldier's Guide to PTSD’ to everyone who joins her newsletter. Here's the link to GET YOURS NOW!: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/oia1vyk3pm

Virginia is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor specializing in Military Issues and Combat-Related Trauma. She provides crisis intervention and evidence-based treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Moral Injury, Depression, Combat Operational Stress, and other diagnoses. Virginia is a certified clinician in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy and has 20+ years’ experience serving Active Duty Military, Veterans, Military retirees and family members. She is a Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) and active American Group Psychotherapy Association member. Virginia is an Army Reserve Officer, Combat Veteran, and published re-searcher. She has one amazing husband, Jay, and one terrible dog, Peanut.

Damon and Damo sit with Virginia and discuss PTSD, suicide, evidence based treatments, hallucinations, and believing that you can survive. These and more topics are discussed on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Link to all Social Media and our Youtube page: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and More for Virginia Cruse:

Website: www.thesoldiersblog.com

Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/5d67884cb98c/stay-connected

Facebook: @thesoldiersguide

Instagram: @the_soldiers_guide

Twitter: @soldierguide

The Soldier's Guide to PTSD: https://www.amazon.com/Soldiers-Guide-PTSD-Reclaiming-Your-ebook/dp/B08VRD2Y8X

The Soldier's Guide to PTSD Workbook: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1734806702/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1

Acknowledge & Heal: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B1M8QKSR 

Damo’s Book of the Week:

The Soldier’s Guide To PTSD: How to No-Shit Reclaim Your Life (Virginia Cruse LPC, NCC) https://www.amazon.com/Soldiers-Guide-PTSD-Reclaiming-Your-ebook/dp/B08VRD2Y8X

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0 

YN1 CJ Pride joins Damon and Damo, and with YN1 up for Chief this year, the conversation naturally starts with a talk about the FY25 CPO Season. To everyone who heard your name called today, congratulations, and best of luck through the season. Continue to lead. Fingers crossed that YN1 becomes YNC Select today. Damo asks YN1 for his opinion on the current competitive nature between First Class Petty Officers. Damon shares a story of an incident between a Master Chief and a junior Sailor following a Disciplinary Review Board. Double back to the conversation about being competitive, the guys discuss “truth in reporting.” The MCPON recently released a new message to all Chiefs about Self-Awareness. The guys speak on how they self-assess and self-regulate. Did Dwayne “The Rock” run off with the bag? CJ details what a “long day” is for a Yeoman and answers some YN-specific questions. Fatherhood is discussed. Damo asks how close to the ground CNP is and shouts out MyNavyHr again. YN1 highlights the joys of working for CNP. Damon remembers the time he got some book recommendations from FLTCM Terrell. Internet culture is getting out of hand. Damon opens up about his experience checking into a new ship. Did Damon deserve the turnover that he received? We’re still not over J. Cole bowing out of the “Battle of the Big Three.” Damo reads some listener-submitted “Do Betters.” Is Command Indoc necessary? I command PT burned out? Damo reveal that he was recently dealing with some health issues and what he’s learned. Shaving techniques are discussed. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, and Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube. To have your “Do Better” reviewed on a future episode please get in touch with us at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and YouTube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links From This Episode:

Disney Wrongful Death Lawsuit - https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/disney-says-man-cant-sue-wifes-death-agreed-disney-terms-service-rcna166594

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

[Recorded on 24 October 2020] Damon gives his opinion on computer based learning. Damo opens up about the time that he cheated on the Physical Readiness Test and got caught. The Goats have a deep dive about mentorship. Khalili “The Barking Dog” provides a very detailed perspective on this topic. The Sailor of the Year Program changes are highlighted. The bros talk about getting selected for Chief and Damo gets honest about his response to not being selected on his first time up. Remember when the Navy wanted to take our rates away? The long awaited “EVAL” conversation is had. Main Topic: “A Fleet Without a Rudder.” Is training prioritized? All these topics and so much more…

Links and more information:

Sailor of the Year Program Instruction: 

https://www.secnav.navy.mil/doni/Directives/01000%20Military%20Personnel%20Support/01-700%20Morale,%20Community%20and%20Religious%20Services/1700.10P.pdf

A Fleet Without a Rudder (Written by LTJG Artem Sherbinin): 

https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2020/october/fleet-without-rudder

Damon's Book of the Week: 

LLC Quick Start Quite (Written by John Knight & TBD) - https://books.apple.com/us/book/llc/id1502926702?ign-gact=1

Damo's Book of the Week: 

Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope (Written by Nicholas D. Kristoff & Sheryl WuDunn) - https://www.amazon.com/Tightrope-Americans-Reaching-Nicholas-Kristof/dp/0525655085

Movie Reviewed: Greyhound

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

On This Episode:

Damon and Damo are back with another week of reflection, sea stories, and even laughter (even if it’s at their own expense). Every episode title has a purpose, even this one. Find out why…

To all of our active listeners, we truly LOVE you and hope you’ve enjoyed our episodes up until now. Please remember, you can always reach out and let us know  how you feel. Until next time. 

Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Please send all questions to: ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

New merchandise has been released. Get it now: https://ptsfmerch.bigcartel.com/

Damo’s Book Suggestion: 

The Five Love Languages

https://www.5lovelanguages.com/

Movie Reviewed: Hacksaw Ridge

https://www.lionsgate.com/movies/hacksaw-ridge

Intro Music Produced by: Lim0

Logo Artwork/Design by: Natashya Vince

On this episode Damon and Damo discuss the value of Reddit and how it's been helping Sailors get messages out in a less traditional way. They cover a few breaking news stories, to include the recent reports about the MCPON having some sort of investigate, but maybe not, or maybe it's open, but it could be closed, we don't know. All we know is that whatever happened, it wasn't as bad as "the other guy." All of this information coming out of a report in Navy Times. Should we practice any form a restraint when covering major topics with little to no information? The guys discuss. They also talk about a breaking story regarding living conditions on a major military installation. Damo has a question for anyone that can help. The second half of this episode is all about sports. You know Damon loved this. The duo discusses everything from Damo's issues with sports fans (please don't kill him for this), to Brian Flores, to the retirement of the other one that we call the GOAT; Tom Brady. These topics and more are covered on this episode.

For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

**DISCLAIMER**

The thoughts and views expressed in this episode are the thoughts and views of the speakers and shall not be in any form associated with views of the Department of Defense and its components.

**PLEASE READ**

We recorded an episode in March, however, due to multiple issues, we will not be able to release the episode. There were a few topics discussed that were we felt we needed to share, so we decided to release bits and pieces of the episode as “bonus episodes.” This is the first installment.

About This Episode:

With the recent death of Pvt. Ana Balsalda Ruiz, the PTSF team discusses Fort Hood and what they perceive to be be flaws in the installations’ criminal investigation tactics.  Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Pvt. Ana Balsalda Ruiz (The New York Times) - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/17/us/fort-hood-death-investigation-ana-basaldua-ruiz.html

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” (Produced by Lim0)