Mandatory Fun

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we speak with Scott Huesing, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Infantry Major with 24 years of service as an enlisted and commissioned officer. During his career spanning ten deployments, he operated in over 60 countries worldwide. Throughout his numerous deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Horn of Africa he planned, led, and conducted hundreds of combat missions under some of the most austere and challenging conditions. Before the Marines on-the-ground could consider fighting an unconventional war, they first had to demonstrate using unconventional tactics to fight the War on Terror in Iraq — that's exactly what retired Marine Scott Huesing did. "When I say "unconventional," I was willing to think outside of the box to some degree," Scott Huesing states. "If there was a Marine, soldier, sailor, airman, contractor that had a rifle, knew how to shoot it, I didn't care. If they wanted to come out in the combat zone and fight with us, that was an enabler." The Marine

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we speak with poet, activist, filmmaker, actor, and Navy SEAL veteran of 22 years, Mikal Vega. Mr. Vega joined the Navy at 17, entered the EOD profession for roughly nine-years, deployed multiple times throughout the world in support of a few SEAL teams when he decided that's what he wanted to do with the rest of his career. At 28, Vega earned a spot on the SEAL teams and added a few more tours of duty to his already impressive resume. After being honorable discharge in 2012, Vega started a nonprofit called Vital Warrior, providing Kundalini Yoga for veterans, first responders, and active duty service members. But, this wasn’t enough for this motivated sailor. Mr. Vega went on to express his creative side by entering the world of film and television and now serves as a military advisor on the hit NBC military-drama The Brave. As veterans, we hold a surplus of talents and personal creativity that we can draw from our unique military service and experiences. Like ma

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we speak with respected book author, speaker, publisher, and Vice President of Production at Warriors, Inc — Julia Dye. Warriors, Inc. is a unique organization that provides technical advice to the entertainment industry.  Mrs. Dye is the daughter of a World War 2 bomber pilot and is married to Hollywood’s drill instructor Capt. Dale Dye — who is featured in episode 37 of the Mandatory Fun podcast. Although growing up as a military brat has its issues, the advantages can form several unique traits within the individual. "Many of them speak more than one language, know more cultures, have seen more of the world, which is great for any kid," Julia said. Julia's book titled Through My Daughter's Eyes is a one-of-a-kind, much-needed look at what it means to come of age in a military family today. Book Excerpt: Dad wasn’t feeling the emptiness like we were. He was busy, I’m sure, fighting the war and leading his soldiers. You're probably wondering what it's like over

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we once again speak with Army veteran, national speaker, and acclaimed author of the 2017 Independent Publishing Award-winning book The Frontline Generation: How We Served Post 9/11 — Marjorie K. Eastman. Marjorie is also an accomplished executive and operational professional with over 20-years experience in leading people and various organizations. Her award-winning book began as a personal memoir for her son. Marjorie's goal was to capture the lessons and inspirations she learned serving beside men and women who represent the very best of what it means to be American — the 1% of the population in the military. She respectfully identifies this group as the Frontline Generation and notes that it is an untapped reservoir of leaders who have been strengthened by their Post 9/11 service. [2:00] Here's the reason why this acclaimed author decided to join the military. [7:25] Marjorie explains how she received her direct Army officer commissioning. [11:50] What gave M

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we talk to former Air Force Chief of Staff, General Merrill A. McPeak, who served as a military adviser to the Secretary of Defense, National Security Council, and the President. He’s also a career fighter pilot with more than 6,000 hours under his belt, including time as a solo pilot with the elite Thunderbirds. The General currently has three books out, Below The Zone, Roles and Missions, and Hangar Flying, about his time being ringside during one of the most tumultuous moments in recent history: the Vietnam War, where Gen. McPeak was an attack pilot and high-speed forward air controller.

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks formerAir Force Chief of Staff General Merrill A. McPeak who served as a military adviser to the secretary of defense, National Security Council, and the president. He’s also a career fighter pilot with more than 6,000 hours under his belt, including time as a solo pilot with the elite Thunderbirds. The General's book Hangar Flying is about his time being ringside during one of the most tumultuous times in recent history as an attack pilot and high-speed forward air controller over Vietnam. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [1:35] The Mandatory Fun crew introduces General McPeak and his epic resume. [4:00] How allied troops managed to set traps on their North Vietnamese enemy. [7:00] The general discusses what it was like kicking off Operation Desert Storm. [10:30] The reasons behind why air doctrine changed since the Vietnam War ended. [13:45] The general breaks down the stats of the fighter pilots who have been shot down

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks once again with Jimmy Blackmon, the author of Pale Horse, a book about his time commanding an Army aviation task force with the 101st Airborne Division at the height of combat in the Afghan War. Set in the very valleys where the 9/11 attacks were conceived, and where 10 Medals of Honor were earned. These are the stories of the pilots behind the lethal Apache helicopters who strike fear into the heart of their enemies as they work with medevac crews who risk their lives to save their fellow troops. Jimmy was also in the area when Pvt. Bowe Bergdahl decided to go for a stroll in Afghanistan. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [1:45] Jimmy humorously explains why he decided to join the military. [5:50] How growing up in Georgia prepared Jimmy for a career in the Army. [7:55] This is how playing Cowboys and Indians as a child helps develop skills for combat operations. [11:45] Jimmy compares his life as an enlisted soldier to g

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, we talk to veterans Mike Lui and Buck Jordan from RMR Laboratories, an over-the-counter cannabis pharmaceutical company about the best qualities investors love in veteran entrepreneurs. RMR Laboratories produces cannabinoid oil that's applied as a topical cream to relieve pain and other medical ailments. Mike served in the Army for eight-years and deployed to Iraq where he led teams that helped rebuild the country by setting up its first democratic elections. Buck served also served in the Army a but as an officer and Blackhawk Pilot. After exiting from his military service, he began working as a venture capitalist and now is an RMR Laboratory investor. [1:55] Mike's unique career path from college, through the military, and into the cannabinoid industry. [4:13] Buck tells us how about his military service and what businesses he's helped build from the ground up. [7:03] We get a solid explanation of what the business term "quick exit" means and how we can get in

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with Army veteran turned co-founder and CEO of RMR Laboratories, Mike Lui, about his over-the-counter cannabis pharmaceutical company. RMR Laboratories produces cannabinoid oil that's applied as a topical cream to the skin for pain relief and to treat other medical alignments. Mike served in the Army for eight-years and deployed to Iraq where he led teams to help rebuild the country by setting up its first democratic elections. Even our WATM podcast producer O.V (who suffers from arthritis in his knees) tried out the CBD lotion. "It tingles," O.V. humorously states. "But it [his knees] feels better." [1:14] An introduction to RMR laboratories' CBD lotion that's designed to treat chronic pain. [3:20] The population of who using this new CBD based lotion and the immediate results. [5:45] Why and how Army veteran Mike Lui decided to enter the cannabis market. [8:45] Why some veterans wish cannabis treatments were more accepted the general population and

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with Jimmy Blackmon the author of Pale Horse a book about his time commanding an Army aviation task force with the 101st Airborne Division at the height of combat in the Afghan War. Set in the very valleys where the 9/11 attacks were conceived, and where 10 Medals of Honor were earned. These are the stories of the pilots behind the lethal Apache helicopters who strike fear into the heart of their enemies as they work with medevac crews who risk their lives to save their fellow troops. We get an understanding of how warriors learned selflessness and found the closest brotherhood they ever known through the crucible of war. Jimmy was also in the area when Pvt. Bowe Bergdahl decided to go for a stroll in Afghanistan. "Every soldier out there has a mom and dad that loves them and they all make stupid mistakes at some point," Jimmy humorously states. "Thank goodness I didn't decide to go for a walk in Afghanistan." In this episode, we talk on a wide-range

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake, Tim, and O.V.  speak with Army veteran and fitness expert Jennifer Campbell on what veterans can do during their busy day to stay in shape when going to morning PT isn't an option. "Veterans have a 70 percent higher chance of developing obesity than the general public," Jennifer Campbell says. The reason for this statistic is due to the change is a service member daily habit. The majority of the veteran community have been known to cease fire on their work out plans which creates a negativity jolt the body's system. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [2:00] The daily regiment of a fitness instructor to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but still staying "loose." [2:40] Information about the growing fitness trend between troops and professional athletes called "Merging Vets & Players." [4:50] Some positive traits of working out versus taking certain medications. [6:20] What "Overtraining Syndrome" consists of and how to avoid it

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with Marine veteran and "Terminal Lance" creator Max Uriarte about his newest projects and other current events. Related: 'Terminal Lance' creator talks about the Marine Corps and the future of his comic "When I first started 'Terminal Lance' I was convinced I was going to get my sh*t pushed in," Max humorously explains. "I knew I was going to get in trouble. I was waiting for that phone call." Soon, Max was releasing hundreds of “Terminal Lance” comics covering a wide range of topics, including military customs, the most popular (and the most disgusting) MREs, long-distance relationships, and other aspects of life in the Corps. His latest book "Terminal Lance Ultimate Omnibus" delivers the complete collection of Abe's shenanigans. It features over 500 serialized comics published on terminallance.com, with additional comics previously published only on the Marine Corps Times newspaper, and new, never before published comics. The Omnibus will also in

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with Army veteran Jennifer Campbell who is currently the Second Vice Commander of the American Legion Post 43 in Hollywood, Ca. Recently, Jennifer and the commander of Post 43, Fernando Rivero were featured in a Wall Street Journal article about how they engineered a plan to bring some fresh energy to the post. The young veterans of the post managed to fuse and honor old military traditions with the new generation of combat veterans. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [1:05] Jennifer states why she decided to join the Army after growing up in a Navy family. [4:00] We talk about the path on how to join the leadership of an American Legion. [9:50] Insightful advice for other post-military organizations that are struggling to stay afloat. [11:23] Jennifer briefly explains "Operation the First Reformational Congress" is all about. [15:30] We get an update on the modern and exciting renovations legendary Post 43 is getting. [17:0

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake, Tim, and O.V. talk with stand-up comedian and Marine veteran Mitch Burrow about what their favorite military movies are broken down by branch. Everyone loves to watch movies from all genres. Veterans and service members have a unique connection to military films for various reasons other than great characters and storylines. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [0:55] Mitch humorously plugs monster energy drink for sponsorship and advises how to avoid drinking sip cans on accident. [4:10] Who was more badass? Maverick or Iceman from "Top Gun." [4:37] What scene in "Top Gun" made Mitch go straight to Mach-3 and our favorite Navy movies. [6:30] Our take on the only thing the film "Hurt Locker" got right. [11:30] What Army movies our considered our all-time favs. But not Army movies in Vietnam like Blake tried to get us to talk about. [15:11] We create the perfect list of Marine Corps movies that are freaking epic [21:00] How awesome

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake, Tim, and O.V. talk with stand-up comedian and Marine veteran Mitch Burrow about a communist Army cadet, a cannibal dictator and make a smooth segway into Ken Burns' Vietnam documentary. General Idi Amin dethroned the government of Milton Obote and declared himself President of Uganda. During his 8-years of ruthless leadership, its estimated he massacred approximately 300,000 civilians. Then its rumored, the Ugandan president was a closet cannibal and like munch on human remains. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [1:10] The WATM crew discuss the Army cadet who is reported to be of the communist party. [3:35] Mitch and Blake attempt to create a list of historical dictators that weren't considered dicks [5:45] Blake talks about the dictator of Uganda who decided one-day to start eating people. Yew. [6:35] Mitch puts in his two cents on why capitalism is better than communism. [8:11] Blake attempts a smooth segway into discussing Ken

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake, Tim, and O.V. once again speak with stand-up comedian and Marine veteran Mitch Burrow about what fantasy benefits vets would love to receive. We asked Mitch what fantasy benefits or one law he would love to get exempted from, his response wasn't surprising for a Marine Corps veteran. "Murder. I would kill so many people," Mitch humorously states. "Do you know how clear the [highway] 405 would be? I wouldn't have been late today." Also Read: How to kidnap Marines — according to a combat training role player When service members exit the military, they will receive an essential document nearly as important as their birth certificate — the DD-214. Veterans won't be able to file for any monthly compensation or post-service healthcare until they have the paperwork in hand and are registered at the V.A. Contact your local Veteran Service Officer for more details. In this episode, we talk on a wide-range of topics including: [03:07] Mitch Burrow's new podcast w

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Tim, O.V., and Blake speak with The Marine Rapper a.k.a. TMR about all the A-level training our service members receive but don't capitalize on it when they get out. Every veteran's journey after the military is different. While some of us pursue the career along the lines in which the military trained us for, others take a different path and sometimes fall short of their full potential. "They [veterans] have a set of skills, they have leadership abilities, and there is so much more we can do," Blake passionately states. "Granted, I'm a writer, and I have five degrees, and none of them have to do with writing." A veteran finding his or her purpose is essential to life outside of the military. So when did TMR decide to become a rapper after serving the Corps? "When I started getting better at it," TMR jokingly admits. "In the Corps, I wasn't at the level I am now. If you've ever surfed the internet looking for military rap songs, chances are you've come across

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with The Marine Rapper a.k.a. TMR about how he went from wrapping tacos to rapping music lyrics. "I joined the military because I was working at Taco Bell and ironically as a [taco] wrapper," TMR recalls. "I wanted more, so I became the manager. I'm going to do the same route as the [Taco Bell] founder did and become a Marine." If you've ever surfed the internet looking for military rap songs, chances are you've come across the unique sound of "The Marine Rapper." Known for sporting a red mohawk and wearing an American flag bandana, TMR served 10 years in the Marine Corps as a Combat Correspondent where he earned a Combat Action Ribbon and two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals during his service. After successful tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, TMR left the Marine Corps in February 2014. After entering back into civilian life, TMR began focusing on music as a profession and for cathartic expression. The Marine Rapper 's Action Figure is a bouncy

In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake speaks with Kelvin Garvanne about his life as an Arabic/Iraqi role player who took training U.S. ground troops to a whole new level — even conducting mock kidnapping scenarios. During these training drills, Marines are "killed" (taken out of play for a period of time) or held hostage by the role players if they're caught off on their own. "We kidnapped Marines," Mr. Garvanne explains. "One of the things we wanted to do in real time was capture a Marine." Before U.S. forces deploy to a foreign region like Afghanistan, pre-deployment training is conducted in environments similar to the terrain in which they'll be exposed. Since the landscape and elevation of 29 Palms almost mirrors that of Afghanistan, Marines are sent there to partake in Mohave Viper — an intense, five-week long training course. The Marines live there for the scenarios and receive cultural training from experts — immersing themselves in war games against native speaking role players for an al

Role players are an essential element for troops preparing to travel overseas and face-off with the enemy. They provide a cultural boost immersing troops in a violent world in which they're about to deploy. Role players submerge themselves into training scenarios commonly setting up mock firefights, ambushes, and suicide bombings — all for the troop's benefit. In this episode of the Mandatory Fun podcast, Blake discusses with Kelvin Garvanne about his life as an Arabic/Iraqi role player for U.S. ground troops heading into combat. For the last nine years, Garvanne has provided Islamic culture and language training to military and civilian personnel deploying overseas. "A role player is basically there to interact with the battalion's training," Garvanne explains. "There are different levels on how you can interact. We were all characterized as 'meat puppets' which were basically folks who were just there to do whatever was told of us to do. " These mock up firefights consist of loud gunfire (blanks), firework