Military Veterans Podcast
This portable podcast is hosted and edited by Gavin Watson, a British Army veteran of 16 years. He talks to other military veterans, allowing them to share their stories and experiences from before, during and after service. This podcast will give non-military personnel the chance to gain a better understanding of military life and gain an insight into what the transition back to civilian life can be like. These strong individuals may inspire, after dealing with diversity, resilience and possibly life changing injuries or illnesses. If you’re a veteran missing your time in the military, this is a great way to rekindle that fire. Regardless of service, rank or time served....every veteran has an experience to share. Sometimes, they just need an opportunity to do so. This podcast is recorded and edited in Gav’s free time.
Episodes
Original Episode: Ep 032 - Sgt William Taylor from 10th January 2023.
In this Viewpoint: William talks about how his book 'On Full Automatic: Surviving 13 Months in Vietnam' came about, and how when writing this book, it was helpful and healing for him on a personal level.
William - aka Bill - also shares some good advice for people thinking of joining the military, and also some good advice for veterans out there, especial...
Original Episode: Ep 031 - LBdr Ryan Yates from 10th December 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Ryan shares founding a not-for-profit Community Interest Company called Veteran’s Army, where they help veterans and their family.
He also gives advice for people thinking of joining the military, plus some good advice for people as a veteran.
Watch Full Episode on YouTube:
Part 1: youtu.be/Sg86jFIE7yg
Part 2: youtu.be/6hTzCq-ayNU
<...
In 2008, Gerry enlisted in the Royal Air Force (RAF) as an Aerospace Systems Operator and served for nine years, attaining the rank of Corporal (Cpl).
In this episode, Gerry discusses his decision to join the Royal Air Force (RAF) and his subsequent training to become an Aerospace Systems Operator. He provides insights into the operational locations of this trade, including RAF Boulmer, where he spent the majority of his career, and...
Original Episode: Ep 030 - Maj Alex Gardiner from 10th November 2022
In this Viewpoint, Alex discusses his aspiration to become a civilian photographer, with the intention of travelling to Afghanistan to gain a unique perspective on the world and potentially provide assistance in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, given his prior knowledge of the region’s vulnerability.
Over the years, Alex had conceived several ideas for writing boo...
Aaron joined the United States Navy (USN) in 1999 as a Mess Management Specialist (Cook), and later transferred to the United States Army (USA) as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist, serving for a combined 14 years. Aaron reached the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG).
In this episode Aaron talks about his time joining the U.S. Navy, and graduating Navy Boot Camp, before completing the Navy “A” School for his trade. Aaron sha...
Original Episode: Ep 029 - SSG Diana Soriano from 10th October 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Diana talks about her transition out of the U.S. Army back into civilian life, which included tackling mental health issues, after suppressing many thoughts and feelings from her time in the military.
She also speaks about how writing her book - In Loving Memory - really helped her, which ended up getting published, and was a g...
Jo joined the British Army in 1995 and served for 24 years in the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC), reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSgt).
In this episode, Jo talks about joining up and going through training, which was during the terrible times at Deepcut, but after getting through this part of training, she moved onto the famous driver training school, being the Defence School of Transport (DST) Leconfield. She shares bei...
Original Episode: Ep 028 - Sgt Joe O'Connor from 10th September 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Joe talks about wanting to challenge himself, away from the Royal Engineers, and in 1999 went on Special Forces Selection. During training with the SF team, late at night with bad weather and visibility, Joe gets taken to hospital after being blown off the side of a cliff, which ended up breaking his neck.
He shares the c...
Ian joined the Royal Navy in 1975, and served for 16 years as part of the Fleet Air Arm (FAA), reaching the rank of Leading Aircraft Engineering Mechanic (Weapons Electrical) (LAEM(WL)).
In this episode Ian talks about his journey in joining the Royal Navy, and what it was like being one of the last courses to go through basic training, at HMS Ganges. He also shares some insights into life at RNAS Lee-on-Solent (HMS Daedal...
Original Episode: Ep 027 - Lt Tom Moore from 10th August 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Tom talks how the end of his career came to be, and how this was difficult for him to come to terms with, causing him to be depressed. However, through help, he came to terms with it all and tackled his thoughts to move back to civilian life...which included leave without pay.
This was a challenge to get a new job, away from the mili...
Tony joined the British Army in 1995, as a Probationary 2nd Lieutenant on a Short Service Limited Commission, and later joined both the Regular and Reserve services. He served a total of 19 years, reaching the rank of Major (Maj).
In this episode Tony talks about growing up and his ambition to join the British Army, sharing his journey with courses at Sandhurst on multiple occasions, and being part of Regular Army units as...
Original Episode: Ep 026 - SNO Sue Warner from 10th July 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Sue talks about returning from Afghanistan and needing to take a career break, due to a tough period in her life, and after this break she returned to nursing.
Sue also shares how sport has helped her recovery, with the support of Help for Heroes. Plus during the crazy times of COVID-19, she stepped forward and used her nursing skill...
Gary joined the Royal Regiment of Artillery (RA) in the British Army twice, once in 1999 and again in 2004. He served for 12 years in total, reaching the rank of Bombardier (Bdr).
In this episode Gary talks about his journey in joining the British Army, and why he left and then rejoined a few years later. He shares his time completing many courses, which prepared him for operational tours of Iraq and 2 deployments to Afgha...
Full Episode: Ep 025 - Cpl Barney Gillespie from 10th June 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Barney shares his journey after leaving hospital and going through rehabilitation, since his incident with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). There were darks days, but he battled through, learning how to use his new prosthetic leg.
With his new mindset, he managed to set new goals and challenges, including taking part in the Sy...
Bob joined the United States Army (USA) in 2002 as part of Airborne Infantry, and served for 4 years, reaching the rank of Specialist (SPC).
In this episode Bob talks about his journey in joining the U.S. Army, and what it was like going through Basic Training, then onto Army Airborne School. He shares what it was like being sent to the 1st Battalion, 508th Infantry Regiment (1st of the 508th - Red Devils), in Italy, befor...
Full Episode: Ep 024 - Capt Phil Klay from 10th May 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Phil talks about using the G.I. Bill to help getting a writing degree and go to teachers college, when leaving the U.S. Marine Corps. This included going into a graduate creative writing program.
He also shares some of the books that he has written, which have done well enough, for him to become a writer full time. These books include Red...
Mike joined the United States Navy (USN) in 2003, as part of the Aviation branch, before becoming a Navy SEAL. He served for 10 years, reaching the rank of Petty Officer First Class (PO1).
In this episode Mike talks about his ambition to become a Navy SEAL at a young age, and his journey in joining the Navy, to begin this pursuit. There were challenges to over come, including going through the Basic Underwater Demolition/S...
Full Episode: Ep 023 - LH(Police) Larry Roke from 10th April 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Larry shares the abrupt end to his career in the Royal Navy, and how he had to cope with the realisation that he won't continue within the military, and what could he do as a civilian.
He had a hobby with fixing vehicles, which he really enjoyed, and therefore looked into becoming a mechanic as a new career. Looking into the...
Ben joined the Parachute Regiment within the British Army in 1997, and served 23 years across multiple areas including, the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (REME), Pathfinders (PF), and finishing with the British Special Air Service (SAS), reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSgt).
In this episode Ben talks about growing up and wanting to join the Royal Marines, before ending up joining the Parachute Regiment,...
Full Episode: Ep 022 - WO2 Joey Jordan from 10th March 2022.
In this Viewpoint: Joey shares his transition back into civilian life, after achieving his big goal in his military career, to become a Warrant Officer Class 2.
He talks about the courses he looked at, the difficulty with buying a house for the first time, and other steps he had to take ready to move away from his military life. During this time, he saw ...
Popular Podcasts
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Welcome to "Decisions, Decisions," the podcast where boundaries are pushed, and conversations get candid! Join your favorite hosts, Mandii B and WeezyWTF, as they dive deep into the world of non-traditional relationships and explore the often-taboo topics surrounding dating, sex, and love. Every Monday, Mandii and Weezy invite you to unlearn the outdated narratives dictated by traditional patriarchal norms. With a blend of humor, vulnerability, and authenticity, they share their personal journeys navigating their 30s, tackling the complexities of modern relationships, and engaging in thought-provoking discussions that challenge societal expectations. From groundbreaking interviews with diverse guests to relatable stories that resonate with your experiences, "Decisions, Decisions" is your go-to source for open dialogue about what it truly means to love and connect in today's world. Get ready to reshape your understanding of relationships and embrace the freedom of authentic connections—tune in and join the conversation!
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
ALL THE SMOKE pairs two of the most outspoken and controversial players of their time. Known as fiery, intense competitors during their on-court careers, Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson are now two of the most widely respected voices by today’s crop of NBA stars. Serving as mentors to numerous players throughout the league and with their hands firmly on the pulse of the game, they have first-hand insight into the minds, lives and pressing issues facing today’s players. Barnes and Jackson, who have played alongside two generations of All-Stars, will dish on the latest news and drama from on and off the court without boundaries.