DTD PODCAST

By DJ KELLYHealth & Fitness Mental Health

DTD PODCAST episodes

June 12, 2024 Episode 167: Derek Mensen "MARSOC RAIDER/ Trident Coffee"
This week in the studio a guest with a story of unwavering commitment to duty and country.

On January 31, 2001, my guest took his first steps into a world of service, donning the uniform of the United States Marine Corps. As a platoon sergeant in conventional infantry operations, he led with integrity and compassion, guiding his fellow Marines through the trials of war and ensuring their readiness for whatever challenges lay ahead. As a Marine Raider within Marine Special Operations Command, Derek's valor knew no bounds. For over 12 years, he faced the crucible of combat with unyielding resolve, navigating the chaos of war with grace and determination.

On January 31, 2021, my guest bid farewell to his 20-year career with the United States Armed Services, leaving behind a legacy of honor and sacrifice. But his journey was far from over. Today, Derek stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, embracing a new mission as the Co-Owner and Director of Operations at Trident Coffee Roasters LLC in Imperial Beach, CA and a graduate of the University of Southern California MBV program. His unwavering spirit continues to inspire all who encounter him. Join us in the studio this week as we explore and celebrate the indomitable spirit of those who serve. Please welcome into the studio Derek Mensen.
1 hr 42 min
May 20, 2024 Episode 166 Seth Gehle "82nd Airborne/Child Abuse Survivor/Go Beyond the Shadows"
Please Be Advised This episode contains GRAPHIC Description of Child Abuse
Seth's journey is one of resilience and redemption. From enduring extreme poverty, violence, and prolonged sexual abuse as a child, Seth has faced more than his fair share of trials. Yet, through unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, he has risen above his circumstances to become the incredible individual he is today.
But Seth's story doesn't end with his personal triumphs. Instead, he has chosen to become a champion for all victims of abuse, using his own experiences to advocate for mental healthcare and support systems for those who have suffered similarly.
In this episode, Seth opens up about his past, sharing the raw and often difficult moments that have shaped him. Join us as we explore how adversity has molded Seth into a beacon of strength and resilience, and how his journey is not just about surviving, but thriving, and making a profound difference in the lives of others.
1 hr 49 min
May 05, 2024 Episode 165: Tim Demaio “US Navy Veteran, Pentagon Contractor, Berserker Built Boards”
Tim DeMaio served in the US Navy where he operated as a Squad Leader at the Presidential Retreat Camp David providing support to high level USG officials, foreign dignitaries, and the Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America. After a tour at Camp David, Tim was chosen to shoot for the US Navy Marksmanship team. He then deployed around the world under the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command with Seal Team 17, EOD Mobile Unit 5, and NMCB 4. Finishing up his Naval career, Tim DeMaio was assigned to US Embassy Athens, Greece where he served under Diplomatic Security Services performing missions on behalf of DoS & OGA all over South East Europe, the Middle East, and HOA. While on mission, Tim was thrown into multiple world conflicts in austere locations and warzones including the Armenian/Azerbaijan war, Civil War in Ethiopia, the Israeli/Palestine conflict, and the war on terror in Lebanon and Iraq. After a career in the Navy, Tim
became a Private Contractor for the US Pentagon where he served the Joint Chiefs of Staff as a member of the Intelligence Community. Moving forward Tim became an overseas contractor representing DS/OGA and the IC traveling all over the world as a countermeasures specialist safeguarding our nation's interests. Tim is a world traveler with real life experience in over 38 countries with a fresh and raw perspective of how the world truly operates.
1 hr 36 min
April 22, 2024 Episode 164: Taylor Cavanaugh “Navy SEAL/French Foreign Legionnaire”
This week in the studio, an extraordinary individual whose life's journey transcends the boundaries of adversity, resilience, and redemption. From a turbulent past marked by brushes with the law, the U.S. Navy SEALs, and subsequent turmoil that led to a downward spiral, His story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for transformation. After hitting rock bottom and grappling with homelessness and despair, a pivotal moment guided him across the Atlantic to the French Foreign Legion. It was here, amidst discipline and self-restraint, that he discovered redemption, inner peace, and the profound fortification of mind and body. My guest stands as the sole individual to have walked the path of both a United States Navy SEAL and a French Foreign Legionnaire, embodying a remarkable narrative of personal evolution and triumph. With a guiding mantra of "Training the body and mind for the divine design," he inspires others to commence their journey towards realizing their dreams despite life's most formidable obstacles.

2 hr
March 25, 2024 Episode 163: Ben Wallick “Navy SEAL/Vanilla Gorilla Security”
Ben Wallick, aka the “Vanilla Gorilla” (a nickname he was given in the SEAL teams), joined the Navy immediately after graduating high school in July 2001. He went through BUDS (SEAL) training class 242 and after completion was assigned to SEAL Team 2 where he served as a Lead Breacher, Team Leader, and other various capacities for multiple combat deployments overseas to the Middle East. He detached from SEAL Team 2 in 2009 where he then spent his last year on active duty at Naval Special Warfare Training Detachment assault cell teaching all the east cost SEAL teams close-quarter combat tactics. After leaving active duty in 2010 he still remained attached to SEAL Team 18 (reserve team) until 2012. Since leaving the SEAL teams, he has spent the last 12 years doing hired gun security contract work INCONUS and overseas. Here at home, he has worked for multiple security/tactical training companies teaching firearms instruction, small unit tactics, and CQC. Overseas he has worked as a GRS agent in a high-risk detail providing personal security assessments and mobile personal security protection for CIA field agents in combat environments in the Middle East. He has also worked overseas as an APASS operator deploying aboard container vessels in international waters in high-threat areas conducting anti-piracy operations.
1 hr 51 min
March 11, 2024 Episode 162: Joe Hahn “Navy SEAL/The Bearded Frogman”
Joseph Hahn was raised in central Texas under the care of Child Protective Services as a foster child in multiple homes from age five until he graduated high school. He was accepted into Texas A&M following graduation where he studied Biomedical Science for a pre-med degree. While attending Texas A&M University for a Biomedical Science Degree, he volunteered to serve after our great nation was attacked. Joseph spent 14 years in the United States Navy as a Special Operator First Class (SEAL). After completing Basic Underwater Demolition /SEAL training Class 252, he was stationed on a west coast team where he deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) from 2005-2009. In 2009 Joseph Hahn completed Selection and Training for Naval Special Warfare Development Group where he was assigned at NSWTACDEVRON 4. At DEV 4 he deployed three times to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and other undisclosed locations worldwide. During these deployments, he was involved in hundreds of capture/kill missions of the top terrorist worldwide, as personal security detail for US generals, state officials, and foreign officials. Joseph Hahn also conducted multiple advanced special operations which utilized tracking, following, and surveillance of various persons of interest. He also developed and coordinated foreign internal defense (FID) training of Iraqi, Afghanistan, and other foreign special forces units. Some of his awards include the Purple Heart, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, 3x Navy/Marine Corp Commendation Medal w/ Combat V, 2x Combat Action, 2x Presidential Unit Commendation, 2x Joint Unit Commendation, 4x Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Global War on Terror Service, Global War on Terror Deployment, Iraq Campaign, Afghanistan Campaign, 5x Sea Service Deployment, ISAF NATO, Expert Rifle, and Expert Pistol. Currently, Joe conducts weapons and tactics training for law enforcement and active duty military.
1 hr 56 min
February 26, 2024 Episode 161: Liam Cogan “Navy SEAL/Silent Butt Deadly”
Meet Liam Cogan, a man whose journey has been marked by unwavering dedication, resilience, and a unique blend of military precision and entrepreneurial spirit. A retired Navy SEAL, Liam's career is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate the most challenging environments. Having served as a Navy SEAL, Liam honed his skills in elite special operations, where he undoubtedly faced adversity and triumphed through rigorous training and real-world missions. His experience and leadership within the SEAL teams equipped him with a set of values that extend far beyond the battlefield. Post-military service, Liam has seamlessly transitioned into the business world, emerging as the CEO of "Silent Butt Deadly." This venture, no doubt bearing a touch of humor, suggests a strategic and calculated approach, mirroring Liam's military background. As the leader of this endeavor, he brings a unique perspective, combining his SEAL training with a keen business acumen. Liam Cogan's story is one of continued service, this time in the corporate landscape, where he applies the principles of discipline, teamwork, and precision that defined his military career. As the CEO of "Silent Butt Deadly," he showcases the adaptability and leadership qualities that make him a force to be reckoned with in both military and entrepreneurial circles.
1 hr 56 min
February 12, 2024 Episode 160: Nicholas Ige “U.S. Army Ranger/The Flying Hawaiian
This week in the studio, a remarkable individual whose journey spans from the tranquil shores of Hilo, Hawaii, to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, California. His life took a pivotal turn at the tender age of 10, marking the beginning of a series of extraordinary experiences. At 18, Nicholas embarked on a new chapter, enlisting in the Army and subsequently serving with distinction for a decade.
Within the Army, Nicholas became an integral part of the esteemed 82nd Airborne and later joined the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, where he honed his skills as an Army Ranger. During six deployments, his unwavering dedication and courage earned him both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with Valor, testament to his commitment to duty and the sacrifices he made for his country.
Currently, Nicholas is a junior at Harvard College, pursuing a degree in neuroscience with a profound mission—to advocate for non-standard forms of therapy. Amidst his academic pursuits, he has set his sights on a unique and challenging goal: becoming the first actively enrolled student in Harvard's history to summit the tallest mountain on every continent. This ambitious endeavor serves a dual purpose—raising awareness about student mental health and inspiring fellow veterans to pursue education after completing their military service.
Nicholas's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As he navigates the academic landscape at Harvard and scales towering peaks, his story unfolds as a beacon of inspiration and a call to action for mental health advocacy and educational pursuits post-military service.
2 hr
January 22, 2024 Episode 159: Mark Greene “Navy SEAL/ UnSEALed”
With a robust background spanning two decades as a Navy SEAL across SEAL Team FIVE, SEAL Team EIGHT, and Special Boat Team TWENTY, my guest ventured through multiple combat theaters in the Pacific, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Graduating from the revered BUD/S training in August '97 (Class 212), my guest charted a path from an enlisted Mineman to a commissioned Navy SEAL Officer. His journey is peppered with milestones – from sniper training to guiding teams in combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Post-retirement, he navigated to the University of Southern California, steering veteran programs as the Director of Development and standing tall within the President's team as the Manager of Military and Veteran Services. My guest’s academic journey includes an outstanding thesis at Naval Postgraduate School and a Masters of Public Policy, culminating in his current role as a Corporate Security Analyst at Dominion Energy, based right here in Virginia Beach. He lives by the motto “Transition is Temporary please welcome Mark Greene into the studio
2 hr 21 min
January 08, 2024 Episode 158: Adam Bardwell “Green Beret/Nonstandard Inc.
Adam Bardwell, a name synonymous with resilience and innovation, embodies the epitome of service and advocacy. With a distinguished 11-year tenure as a Special Forces Medic, Adam's journey extends beyond valor on the battlefield. As the Security Operations Supervisor at Global Rescue and the visionary founder of NONSTANDARD 501(c)(3), he stands as a beacon for change and progress in the veteran community. His unwavering voice echoes through the corridors of the Department of Defense (DOD), tirelessly advocating to bridge cultural divides and usher in life-saving policy reforms. A survivor in every sense, Adam's triumph over cancer and disabilities fuels his impassioned crusade for Nonstandard Therapies, transforming lives and reshaping paradigms. NONSTANDARD, under Adam's guidance, embodies fearlessness and serves as an agent of positive change, offering constructive solutions and alternative therapies to empower veterans, the DOD, and the greater good. With Adam Bardwell at the helm, NONSTANDARD stands as a relentless force multiplier, championing a brighter future through innovative approaches and unwavering advocacy.
1 hr 40 min

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My name is Dustin Kelly, but everybody calls me DJ. I am former Army, serving as both a Forward Observer and a Military Police Officer. I have spent the last 16.5 years as a Police Officer and…