Veteran Made

Old Glory Ultra Relay w/ Mike Erwin | Founder & Executive Director of Team RWB (Red, White, & Blue)

In an exhilarating episode of Veteran Made, host Carey Kight sits down with Mike Erwin, the founder and executive director of Team Red, White and Blue (Team RWB), to discuss the upcoming Old Glory Ultra Relay. This ambitious event, set to take place in May 2025, will see a team of 12 veteran runners attempt to set a world record by relaying an American flag across the country in just 15 days, covering 3,000 miles from San Diego to Washington D.C.

The Old Glory Ultra Relay represents a bold evolution of Team RWB’s signature event, transforming from a member-based relay into an epic challenge that showcases the strength, determination, and unity of the veteran community. Starting at the USS Midway in San Diego with a flag that has flown over a combat zone, the team will push themselves to cover an astounding 200 miles per day. This grueling journey will test not only their physical limits but also their mental resilience and teamwork as they navigate the challenges of living and recovering together in close quarters for two intense weeks.

Listeners will be captivated by the high stakes and numerous obstacles the team must overcome to achieve their monumental goal. From potential injuries and extreme weather conditions to the mental and physical fatigue that sets in during the later stages of the relay, every aspect of this challenge embodies the spirit of perseverance that defines the veteran community. The episode offers a tantalizing preview of the upcoming series, which will follow the runners’ preparation and culminate with live updates during the event itself, allowing audiences to experience the excitement and inspiration of this unprecedented feat in real-time.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

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GOD TALKS w/ Ed Rush | USMC Fighter Pilot, Author, & Speaker

In this high-octane episode of Veteran Made, Carey speaks with Ed Rush, a former Marine Corps fighter pilot turned entrepreneur and author, who shares his insights on pursuing one’s true calling and achieving personal and professional fulfillment. Rush emphasizes the importance of following one’s desires and wants in life, arguing that these often align with God’s plan for an individual. He challenges the conventional wisdom of pursuing careers solely based on qualifications or societal expectations, instead encouraging listeners to explore their genuine passions and interests.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Rush and host Carey Kight discuss the concept of work-life integration rather than balance. Rush advocates for operating at “100% efficiency” in all aspects of life, rejecting the notion of compartmentalizing work and personal time. He illustrates this idea through examples from his military experience and entrepreneurial journey, demonstrating how one can achieve a state of flow and ease even in high-pressure situations by aligning with one’s true purpose.

Throughout the episode, Rush and Kight explore the idea of resisting the cultural pendulum swing between extreme hustle culture and passive acceptance of circumstances. Instead, they propose a middle ground of intentional, efficient action guided by a clear understanding of one’s mission in life. Rush shares personal anecdotes, including his experience with adrenal fatigue, to underscore the importance of finding this balance and operating from a place of rest and receptivity rather than constant striving. This thought-provoking discussion offers listeners a fresh perspective on achieving success and fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.

Episode Sponsors:

• VM Merch
• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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Experience Your Life w/ Drew Billings | General Manager of Anthem Snacks

In this sobering episode of Veteran Made, Drew Billings, a former EOD technician and current GM of Anthem Snacks, lays bare the harsh realities of military service and the crushing disappointment of unfulfilled expectations. Drew’s candid account of his time in the Air Force and Army is a stark reminder that not every service member gets to fulfill their combat aspirations. His heartbreaking admission that the deployments he chased “never materialized” serves as a sobering wake-up call to those who romanticize military service.

The episode challenges listeners to confront the uncomfortable truth that sometimes, despite our best efforts and intentions, life doesn’t unfold as planned. Drew’s journey from a motivated EOD tech to veteran forces us to reckon with the idea that our military experience might not define us in the ways we initially hoped. His transition into the corporate world and entrepreneurship demonstrates that there’s life beyond the unfulfilled military dreams, but it doesn’t sugarcoat the emotional toll of unrealized ambitions.

This powerful conversation is a call to arms for veterans and civilians alike to embrace the long, often frustrating journey of personal growth and professional development. Drew’s story demands that listeners question their own expectations, confront their disappointments head-on, and find the courage to forge new paths when old ones are blocked. It’s a challenge to let our veteran status inform us, but not define us, and to find meaning and purpose in the face of shattered dreams and unexpected turns. This episode isn’t for the faint of heart – it’s for those ready to grapple with the harsh realities of service and the complex journey of self-discovery that follows.

Episode Sponsors:

• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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An American Experience w/ Mark Holtzman | President of West Coast Aerial Photography

In this special episode of Veteran Made, Carey Kight interviews Mark Holtzman, an aerial photographer who has captured iconic images of military flyovers at the Rose Bowl for over 15 years. Holtzman’s journey began in 2009 when he serendipitously photographed a B-2 bomber flying over the stadium during the national anthem. This image, which went viral and earned international recognition, sparked a tradition that has become a hallmark of American sports culture.

The conversation delves into the intricate process of capturing these breathtaking moments, blending the precision of military aviation with the pageantry of college football. Holtzman describes the challenges of coordinating with Air Force pilots, navigating complex airspace, and timing his shots to perfection. His photographs encapsulate the essence of Americana, showcasing the convergence of military might, collegiate tradition, and national pride in a single frame.

Throughout the episode, the veteran and civilian find common ground in their appreciation for these uniquely American experiences. They discuss the significance of the Rose Bowl as “The Granddaddy of Them All,” the pride of university marching bands performing intricate formations, and the awe-inspiring sight of a stealth bomber soaring over a sea of cheering fans. Holtzman’s work not only commemorates these moments for the pilots and spectators but also serves as a powerful symbol of the shared values and experiences that unite Americans across different walks of life.

Episode Sponsors:

• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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https://www.instagram.com/westcoastaerialphotography/

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Big Dad Energy w/ Ryan Kutscher | Co-Founder of Dad Strength Brewing

In this captivating episode of Veteran Made, two old friends, Carey Kight and Ryan Kutscher, dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship and creative pursuits. Their conversation is a masterclass in learning by doing, challenging the conventional wisdom that success comes from accepting the advice of professors and executives at face value. Ryan’s journey from advertising to launching his own beer brand, Dad Strength Brewing, serves as a powerful testament to the value of hands-on experience and the courage to pursue one’s vision.

The episode is a rallying cry for aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives to break free from the shackles of traditional career paths and educational models. Ryan’s experiences, from dropping out of ad school to take an unpaid internship, to launching multiple businesses, highlight the importance of seizing opportunities and learning through real-world challenges. The conversation emphasizes that true growth and innovation come from taking risks, making mistakes, and constantly adapting to new situations – not from sitting in classrooms or boardrooms.

Listeners will be challenged to question their own career trajectories and comfort zones. This episode isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s a wake-up call for those who’ve been playing it safe or waiting for the “right time” to pursue their dreams. Ryan and Carey’s frank discussion about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, the value of failure, and the importance of solving real problems for niche markets will inspire listeners to take action now. If you’re tired of theoretical knowledge and ready to embrace the messy, exhilarating world of doing, this episode is your starting gun. Don’t just listen – let it ignite the fire to start your own journey today.

Episode Sponsors:

• Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order.
• True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order.
• Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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Just Another Dude w/ Aaron Love | Co-Host of Ones Ready and The War Room Podcast

In this intimate and candid conversation, Aaron Love, a recently retired Air Force Pararescueman, shares his challenging journey transitioning from a 22-year military career to civilian life with his friend Carey Kight. Aaron opens up about the profound mental and emotional shifts required to adapt to a world without the structure, purpose, and camaraderie that defined his military experience. He emphasizes the humbling process of going from being a highly skilled operator and leader to feeling like a novice in his new civilian role, highlighting the importance of managing expectations and being brutally honest with oneself during this transition.

Aaron details his experience with the Special Operations Transition Foundation (SOTF), crediting the organization with saving his life by helping him navigate the complexities of civilian job searches and workplace dynamics. He describes the lengthy interview process for his current position, revealing the stark differences between military and civilian hiring practices. Aaron stresses the need for veterans to recognize that their military accomplishments, while valuable, do not automatically translate to civilian success, and that humility and a willingness to learn are crucial in this new chapter of life.

Throughout the conversation, Aaron and Carey explore the broader implications of veteran transitions, touching on the importance of maintaining connections with the military community while adapting to civilian life. They discuss the responsibility veterans have in accurately portraying both the challenges and rewards of military service to the next generation. Aaron’s parting advice to fellow veterans is poignant: resist cynicism, maintain hope, and actively engage with your local community. His journey serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and adaptability required of those who transition from the highly specialized world of special operations to civilian life.

This episode is sponsored by Go Pills. Use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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Kick Back w/ Trevor Spiers | Co-Founder of oo-Lah

This episode of Veteran Made features a conversation with Trevor Spiers, a Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of oo-Lah, an RTD (ready-to-drink) beverage company. The discussion delves into the importance of building genuine relationships in business as opposed to superficial networking. Trevor emphasizes how leveraging real connections and shared experiences, particularly those from military service, can open doors and create opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The episode underscores the importance of humility and continuous learning for veterans transitioning into business. Trevor advises veterans to leverage their military background when building relationships, but also to be open to new ideas and perspectives. By combining their inherent strengths with a willingness to adapt and learn, veterans can successfully navigate the business world and create thriving enterprises. The key is to focus on building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships rather than simply collecting contacts.

Veterans excel at falling back on their training when faced with challenges, a skill that translates well into the business world. Trevor highlights how military experience instills resilience, adaptability, and the ability to work effectively in teams – all valuable traits for entrepreneurs. However, veterans can improve by learning to put aside their ego, be open to killing their “darlings” (favorite ideas that may not work), and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit of taking calculated risks.

This episode is sponsored by Go Pills. Use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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Valor Provisions w/ Pat Montgomery | Founder of KC Cattle Co.

In this thought-provoking episode of Veteran Made, host Carey Kight welcomes back Pat Montgomery, founder of KC Cattle Company and Valor Provisions, in a discussion that serves as a call to action for citizens to become more engaged in their communities, support local agriculture, and make informed decisions that align with their values, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more resilient American food system. Montgomery passionately argues for a return to more ethical and sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the importance of connecting consumers directly with local producers. He introduces Valor Provisions, a co-op model designed to support small purveyors while offering customers high-quality, ethically sourced products at competitive prices.

The conversation delves deep into the current issues plaguing the American food system, including the consolidation of power among a few large corporations, the decline of family farms, and the increasing reliance on imported meat products.

Throughout the episode, Kight and Montgomery stress the critical role that individual Americans play in shaping the future of the country’s food landscape. They challenge listeners to take greater responsibility for their food choices, encouraging them to seek out local producers, understand the origins of their food, and prioritize quality over convenience.

This episode is sponsored by Go Pills. Use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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https://www.instagram.com/kccattlecompany/

https://www.instagram.com/valorprovisions.us/

 

Screaming Eagles Wings w/ David Rose | Author at Dead Reckoning Collective

In this thought-provoking episode of Veteran Made, host Carey Kight interviews author David Rose about his latest novel published by Dead Reckoning Collective, Screaming Eagles Wings, and delves into the deeper cultural implications of storytelling rooted in personal experience. Rose, a former Marine who served in Iraq, discusses how his book aims to counter the prevailing narrative about the Iraq War by highlighting the heroic aspects and the sense of brotherhood that many veterans fondly remember.

The conversation takes a critical turn as Rose and Kight explore the concept of cultural decline in America. They argue that the current societal shift towards a “victim culture” has negatively impacted veterans, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of struggle and victimhood. Rose emphasizes the importance of recognizing the extraordinary achievements of their generation and rejecting the notion that veterans are inherently victims of their experiences.

Both Kight and Rose advocate for a return to personal responsibility and reconnection with the broader civilian community. They stress the value of specific, experience-based storytelling as an antidote to the superficial, high-level perspectives that dominate modern discourse. By sharing authentic, deeply personal narratives, they believe veterans can contribute to a more nuanced understanding of their experiences and help combat the cultural decline they perceive.

This episode is sponsored by Go Pills. Use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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Work That Works w/ Maggie Malek | CEO of Crispin

In this compelling episode of Veteran Made, Maggie Malek, CEO of Crispin, shares her journey from the military to the top of the advertising industry. Joining the Army Reserves after 9/11, Maggie credits the military with saving her life and providing the structure she needed during a challenging time. Her experience in the Army Reserves, combined with her pursuit of education and various jobs, laid the foundation for her successful career in advertising.

Maggie’s military background has profoundly shaped her leadership style at Crispin. She emphasizes three key pillars: being worthy of your post, seeing your people, and embodying the mission. These principles, deeply rooted in her military experience, translate seamlessly into the advertising world. Maggie’s approach to leadership focuses on taking care of her team, understanding diverse perspectives, and driving results - skills honed during her time in the Army Reserves. Her ability to work with diverse teams, think on her feet, and solve complex problems under pressure are direct results of her military training.

For hiring managers in the advertising industry, Maggie’s story illustrates the unique value veterans can bring to roles at every level within ad agencies. Her emphasis on teamwork, mission-focused strategies, and adaptability showcases how military skills can be leveraged in a creative, fast-paced environment.

For veterans considering a career in advertising, Maggie’s journey demonstrates that the industry values the leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills developed in the military. Her success at Crispin proves that veterans can not only thrive in advertising but also rise to top leadership positions, bringing a unique perspective that can drive innovation and success.

This episode is sponsored by Go Pills. Use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order.

Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9.

SOCIALS:

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