Echo Oscar Delta

In episode 20, LT(ret) Robert Pizzini, Navy EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) veteran, shares his initial fascination with diving to becoming a second-class diver and how that lead him to attend EOD school. He discusses the differences between the diving community and the EOD community, highlighting the love-hate relationship within EOD teams that we all are so fond of and recount deployments involving mine countermeasures operations, experience using the 2 Alpha underwater detection system, and the unique opportunities for EOD work in Guam.

The interviewee reflects on their transition from being Chief to becoming an Ensign and serving as the OIC of a nuclear EOD detachment, emphasizing the importance of properly equipping and training the team. Bob addresses challenges with funding and facility improvements, expressing concerns to their operational commander.

The speaker's upbringing and childhood experiences shaped their character and prepared them for their journey. They discuss their involvement in building and running the IFLY wind tunnel facility, emphasizing the significance of facility design and customer satisfaction.

Leadership development is another aspect our guest prioritizes, discussing their leadership program for their team and the need for leadership training in the private sector. They share insights from their book, "Elevate Your Leadership," and their motivation for writing it.

Community involvement is a passion for the speaker, particularly in supporting the military and youth programs. They emphasize the importance of facing fears and challenges for personal and professional growth.

Throughout the podcast, the interviewee shares their insights on leadership, the importance of learning from superiors, and the parallels between their business endeavor and running a marathon. They emphasize the need to face fears and challenges for personal and professional growth. The episode concludes with a reminder to seek guidance and support in pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors and express gratitude for the military community and the importance of staying connected and supporting one another.

Links:

Robert Pizzini MSIR | LinkedIn

Elevate Your Leadership: Company Page Admin | LinkedIn

Book-Podcast- Blog Elevate Your Leadership - Robert Pizzini - Award Winning CEO

Elevate Your Leadership - YouTube

Robert Pizzini (@bobpizzini) | Instagram

Personal Facebook

Elevate Your Leadership | Facebook

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EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

In episode 19 we step into the extraordinary world of EODCS Scott Weaver as he shares stories from his time in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and Bahrain. Join us as we uncover the triumphs and challenges faced by Weaver and his team during intense combat operations, including their critical role in defusing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Gain valuable insights into the rigorous training, the bond between EOD and SEAL teams, and the profound importance of urgency and safety in life-or-death situations. But this podcast goes beyond the battlefield. Discover how Weaver found solace and therapy through his passion for custom car painting and learn about the pivotal role of having an outlet for mental decompression. Explore the significance of leadership, continuous learning, and supporting mental health in high-stress professions. Get inspired by Weaver's resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence, both in his military career and personal pursuits. Join me for an engaging conversation that explores the profound impact of service, the power of passion, and the indomitable spirit of EODCS Scott Weaver.

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EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

Episode 18 is a bit different. EODCS (soon to be EODCM) Harvey Fisher joins me and instead of talking about what he's done in his career, he talks about the "World by Harvey." What is that? It is how he personally has approached the various aspects of EOD. From training to getting ready to operate downrange in a warzone. He talks about the EOD operators he's served with and how they affected his career.

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EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

In Episode 17, EODC (ret) Kyle Masur talks about how he found out about EOD on Guam as a fleet sailor, went through the pipeline, and ultimately joined the ranks of Navy EOD. Once at EOD Mobile Unit 12 he was put on an NSW EOD team and did a grueling workup.

Once deployed to Afghanistan he encountered many IEDs, multiple firefights, exhaustion from a heavy workload, and had to take care of injured EOD and SEAL teammates. An intense 11-month deployment was made tolerable by the bond that hard times create. Somehow a heavy amount of laughter was enjoyed during those hard times.

After returning from the deployment he soon found his way to another team and deployed to Somalia. Not as intense as Afghanistan, he was able to enjoy some extracurricular like swimming with a whale shark.

Finishing out his navy career at Det Kings Bay, he talks about the Medical Board process that leads to his medical retirement. Once retired from the military his injuries didn't just go away. The physical and mental injuries he sustained caused a toll on his life. Kyle didn't just give in and was able to find some treatments that helped him significantly. He talks about those unconventional treatments in hopes to share them with others.

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EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

From scattered beginnings to an impressive legacy, CDR (ret) Lawrence (Larry) Ronan in episode 16 of the Echo Oscar Delta Podcast, quite literally made EOD his life's work. Joining the Navy in 1950, going to EOD school in 59', and finally retiring in 1979, that's not where his EOD career ended. After a 10-year break, he dove back into the field as a UXO tech to continue his love for EOD. He only just retired in 2015, giving him more than 49 years as an EOD operator and technician.

In this captivating podcast, join us as we delve into the fascinating history and evolution of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Underwater Demolition Teams (UDT). Discover firsthand accounts from a seasoned veteran who experienced the challenges, triumphs, and transformations of these specialized Navy units during pivotal moments in history.

Highlights include:

• Early days of limited resources, lacking senior officers, and scattered operations

• The crucial role of the Vietnam War in shaping the growth and development of EOD and UDT

• Personal experiences in training, deployments, and encounters with hazardous ordnance

• Reflections on the current impressive state of EOD, with captains, commanders, and admirals at the helm

• Navigating through the unique challenges of setting up AOD Navy capabilities in Vietnam

• Exploring the post-military career in UXO clearance, including impactful missions in Bosnia and Iraq

EPISODE SPONSOR: NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

In episode 15 EODCM (ret) Nap de Ciutiis recounts his 24 years of service including time in Iraq, various deployments, and the obstacles he encountered. The importance of humility, active listening, and effective teamwork is highlighted. Additionally, we explore the challenges of managing emotions and the pressure to conceal vulnerabilities. The Nap reflects on his personal growth, drawing wisdom from others, and recognizing the significance of self-care. They stress the value of maintaining a peaceful and loving demeanor, while also asserting oneself when necessary. Navy EOD veteran suicide is a big part of the work Nap is doing now, including working on a book project with another author, with the purpose of gaining a better understanding, combating NEOD suicides, and moving forward to helping the NEOD community. He expresses profound gratitude for the people they encountered and the invaluable lessons garnered throughout their military tenure.

Emerald Kush Farms Website

Real Estate in the Emerald Coast and Forgotten Coast, FL

[email protected]

EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

Mason McCabe is a former Navy EOD Lieutenant who served 8 years before trying his luck on the outside. During the episode, we talked about his first IED call, surviving a VBIED attack, and why finding the people you want to work with is so important. He also discusses the role of an EOD officer, the similarities and differences between an EOD team and a Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) team, as well as the process of getting out of the military.

Lots of laughs and a great conversation that is entertaining, but also informative.

EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

Nick Kush, retired Chief Navy EOD Operator with 20 years of service, talks about how he found Navy EOD, deploying with Navy SEALs, the Brotherhood of both communities and the Triple 7 Expedition. His mindset in everything he does focuses on packaging what he’s learned and passing it to those behind who can benefit.

https://legacyexpeditions.net

https://foldsofhonor.org

https://americasmightywarriors.org

 @njk_237   @foldsofhonorfoundation   @LegacyExpeditions   @americasmightywarriors8829 ​

EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF - Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all thetools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know theyare never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

Episode 12 of the podcast is with Tom Fischer, a retired Navy EOD Master Chief with 26 years of service and over 7 deployments. During the podcast, he talks about training for war during peacetime, which is becoming relevant yet again. We discuss the changes in how Navy EOD Master Boards are run, making Chief in 96, what it was like to be the LCPO of his first team, and what the difference is between having a mentor and purposeful mentoring. An insightful 75 minutes and a glimpse into how Tom Fischer viewed his time in EOD and beyond.

EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ

Rich Mahone joins us for episode 11 of the podcast. During his 30 years of service, he rose through the enlisted ranks and was then commissioned, ultimately making Lieutenant Commander. During the podcast, Rich talked about the people that influenced his career, helped him achieve what he was capable of, and guided him when he needed it. From using his skills cutting grass, finding himself trying to outrun an Iranian boat, or getting dropped off with one other person in the middle of Afghanistan, Rich Mahone has stories that each one of us can learn from.

EPISODE SPONSOR:

NSOF Navy Special Operations Foundation

"We exist to ensure our operators and their families are provided with all the tools necessary to overcome any challenges they may face and let them know they are never alone in the fight"

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/roman/arctic-river

License code: 9CLBRSNPUN0RVAUQ