In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I sit down with filmmaker Stephen Grayhm to talk about his powerful new movie, Sheepdog. The film explores the experiences of U.S. veterans, post-traumatic growth, and the importance of empathy in storytelling.

Stephen shared how his grandfather’s WWII service and a chance encounter with a veteran profoundly influenced his work. Those moments sparked his mission to tell veterans’ stories with honesty and respect, capturing both the pain and growth that come after service.

Bringing Sheepdog to life took rigorous research and deep collaboration with real veterans and mental health professionals. Stephen and his team wanted to ensure the film accurately represents both communities — avoiding stereotypes while focusing on authentic emotion and human connection.

Our conversation dives into what it means to tell these stories responsibly, how filmmakers can use empathy as a guiding principle, and why portrayal matters, especially when dealing with trauma and recovery.

At its heart, Sheepdog is about understanding, compassion, and connection. Stephen’s vision is to bridge the gap between civilian and military communities through open, honest storytelling. By fostering empathy, he hopes to build a framework where people can engage in supportive conversations about veterans’ healing journeys.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio celebrates more than just a movie — it’s about the mission of storytelling as a form of service. Stephen’s work reminds us that sharing the real stories behind those who served helps foster resilience, community, and dialogue that can heal divides.

To learn more about Stephen’s film, visit sheepdogthemovie.com.

Thank you, Stephen, for joining me and for your dedication to honoring the voices of veterans everywhere.

I did a livestream using the OneStream Live Platform. I had a good time bringing in the New Year.

Recorded at Island Grove Park in Abington, MA, Episode 473 of Oscar Mike Radio was one for the books, cold, windy New England weather and all! Despite the headwinds, the mission continued.

As I looked back on 2025, I couldn’t help but feel proud of how far Oscar Mike Radio has come. This year marked incredible growth from expanding veteran storytelling and teaching podcasting to embracing video content and reaching new audiences.

Through every challenge, the message stayed the same: keep moving forward and share powerful stories that inspire.

With 2026 on the horizon, I’m excited to celebrate a major milestone, our 500th episode. Each conversation and story brings us closer to our mission: amplifying the voices of veterans, advocates, and community leaders who continue to make an impact long after their service.

As we prepare for this milestone, Oscar Mike Radio remains focused on highlighting veterans’ advocacy, employment challenges, and the importance of community support across the country.

Veteran storytelling continues to be at the heart of Oscar Mike Radio. Whether it’s through audio, video, or teaching others how to podcast, every voice matters. These stories remind us that resilience and connection are what keep our community strong especially when times get tough.

Even out in the cold, recording at Island Grove Park was a reminder that the mission never stops. We adapt, overcome, and keep pushing — because service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m thankful for everyone who’s supported Oscar Mike Radio: listeners, guests, partners, and the veteran community. Your encouragement fuels this mission of engagement, education, and empowerment.

We are Mission in Flight, always moving forward, no matter the obstacles.

Merry Christmas and thank you for being part of the journey!

In this episode, I sit down with Sean Loosen from PDS Optical to discuss his remarkable journey from West Point graduate to CEO of a company dedicated to supporting U.S. veterans through high-quality, affordable prescription eyewear.

Sean’s path from military life to the optical industry is one defined by service, discipline, and purpose. After his time at West Point and his service in the armed forces, Sean transitioned into civilian life with a commitment to continue serving leaders and heroes, the veterans who have given so much to our nation.

Through VA contracts, PDS Optical manufactures and delivers durable, affordable eyeglasses for veterans across the United States. Their mission goes far beyond just making glasses; it’s about restoring dignity, independence, and quality of life for those who served.

At the heart of PDS Optical lie three guiding principles: Pride, Dignity, and Service. These values influence everything the company does, from product quality and craftsmanship to customer care and community involvement.

Sean explains how these values guide his leadership style and company culture, ensuring that every pair of eyeglasses reflects unwavering respect and care for veterans. The pride PDS Optical takes in its work extends beyond the lab, as the team consistently engages with veteran organizations nationwide.

Our conversation also explores the challenges of leadership and innovation in the optical industry. Sean shares insights on embracing new technology, maintaining top-tier quality control, and managing a mission-driven organization while scaling production through government contracts.

For Sean, leadership means balancing operational excellence with human connection treating employees, customers, and veterans as part of one community bound by shared values.

PDS Optical’s story is one of service through innovation, showing that business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand. As the company continues to grow, its commitment to helping veterans see clearly and live fully remains at the forefront.

To learn more about their mission and explore their products, visit pdsoptical.com.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I sit down with Rick Dungey from the Christmas Spirit Foundation to explore the heartwarming mission behind Trees for Troops. This incredible program delivers real, farm-grown Christmas trees to military bases across the United States, bringing joy, comfort, and a touch of home to service members and their families during the holiday season.

Rick and I dive into how the foundation coordinates this massive effort every year. From working with tree farmers to organizing shipments to bases nationwide, the logistics behind Trees for Troops are impressive. It takes planning, precision, and a passionate community to make it all possible.

We talk about how:

Tree growers donate thousands of beautiful Christmas trees

Volunteers step up to prepare, load, and distribute them

Generous donors fund the mission

And partners like FedEx provide essential transportation support

It truly is a nationwide act of generosity—and every tree carries a message of appreciation.

One of the most meaningful parts of our conversation is hearing Rick share the stories of gratitude he’s heard over the years. For many families, especially those with deployed loved ones, receiving a Christmas tree is more than a gift—it’s a reminder that their service and sacrifice are recognized.

These moments of connection and celebration bring holiday spirit to installations where it’s needed most.

Throughout the episode, Rick explains several ways people can get involved:

Donate directly to the Christmas Spirit Foundation

Visit participating tree farms

Volunteer during the collection and distribution events

Share the mission with friends, family, and community groups

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support military families during the holidays, this is it.

You can learn more or get involved by visiting the Christmas Spirit Foundation website:
https://www.christmasspiritfoundation.org/

Talking with Rick reminded me how powerful small gestures can be—especially during the holidays. These trees bring families together, lift spirits, and remind our military community that they are supported and appreciated.

Thank you, Rick, for joining me on the show and for everything you and your team do to spread Christmas cheer to those serving far from home.

Merry Christmas!

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I reflect on nearly 25 years of career milestones, personal growth, and the support I’ve received from veterans, family, and friends. Recorded in Boston, this heartfelt episode captures the true meaning of gratitude, resilience, and community.

I share my personal and professional journey. I want to share the moments that shaped me and the people who stood by me along the way. Throughout the episode, I  express deep appreciation for:

These reflections set the tone for a powerful, emotional Thanksgiving message.

Understanding that the holidays can be difficult for many, I wanted acknowledge those facing hardship during this season. He extends a special thank-you to:

Their service and dedication remain central to the mission and values of Oscar Mike Radio.

I encourage you all to take time to appreciate meaningful moments with family, friends, and their wider community. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.

More than a holiday message, this episode celebrates the strength of community, the power of gratitude, and the importance of supporting one another, especially in challenging times. Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode delivers heartfelt perspective and encouragement.

In this Thanksgiving episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I take a moment to reflect on almost 25 years of career milestones, personal growth, and the support I’ve received from so many incredible people, veterans, family, friends, and my amazing community.

Recording here in Boston, I can’t help but feel grateful for how far I’ve come and the people who have lifted me throughout my journey. Whether through shared stories, meaningful conversations, or moments of quiet reflection, these connections remind me of what truly matters.

Over the years, weightlifting has become more than just physical training — it’s a source of mental and emotional resilience. As I continue this journey, I’m reminded that strength isn’t just built in the gym, it comes from overcoming challenges, learning from failure, and pushing forward with purpose.

I’m especially grateful for my sons. They’ve been a constant source of inspiration, courage, and love. They remind me why staying strong every day matters.

Living in the United States reminds me daily of the freedoms we too often take for granted. I owe a deep debt of gratitude to our military personnel, veterans, and first responders. These are the brave men and women who keep our communities safe and uphold the values we hold dear.

As someone who has served and continues to advocate for veterans, I will always be thankful for their dedication and sacrifice.

I know that the holidays aren’t always easy. For some, this time of year can bring challenges or reminders of what’s missing. That’s why I believe it’s so important to reach out, to pick up the phone, share a meal, or simply listen.

Connection is powerful. A simple act of kindness can make all the difference. As I share this Thanksgiving message, I hope you take a moment to appreciate the people who make your life richer, just as I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me and Oscar Mike Radio.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I had the privilege of speaking with Marine Corps veteran and journalist Chas Henry, author of Fuji Fire. Together, we revisited the 1979 Camp Fuji fire in Japan, one of the most devastating peacetime disasters in Marine Corps history.

This tragedy, triggered by a powerful typhoon, claimed the lives of several Marines and left a lasting scar on those who survived. My conversation with Chas brought this painful yet important chapter of military history to light, ensuring that the courage and sacrifice of those Marines are never forgotten.

Chas took me through his in-depth investigative process behind Fuji Fire, uncovering the systemic failures that led to the disaster and exploring the leadership lessons that remain relevant today. His storytelling is both powerful and sobering, a reminder of how history can shape the standards and safety we uphold in the service today.

As we talked, it was clear that this story isn’t only about tragedy, it’s also about resilience, courage, and brotherhood, the very essence of the Marine Corps.

This conversation with Chas reminded me why preserving these stories is so important. The Marines who endured Camp Fuji displayed extraordinary strength in the face of chaos, showing true leadership and unity.

By revisiting this story, we honor not just those who were lost, but also those who carried on, the ones who rebuilt, learned, and continued to serve. It’s a testament to the eternal Semper Fidelis spirit.

To dive deeper into this powerful story, I encourage you to visit chashenry.com/fujifire to learn more about Chas Henry’s investigative work and his dedication to honoring Marine Corps history.

Thank you, Chas, for joining me and sharing your insights, and thank you to everyone who continues to remember and honor our brothers and sisters in arms.

Semper Fidelis.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I had the honor of speaking with Vladislav Shapiro, a Ukrainian veteran, mathematician, and proud U.S. immigrant. Vlad shared his remarkable life journey from growing up in Kyiv, serving as a movie projectionist in the Soviet military, to starting a new life in America.

As we spoke, I was genuinely inspired by his resilience and deep perspective on freedom, identity, and what it means to serve and rebuild after conflict.

Vlad opened up about the ongoing war in Ukraine, reflecting on how it has reshaped his homeland and challenged the global community. Our conversation dove into Russia’s imperial ambitions, the human cost of the invasion, and why U.S. support continues to be essential, not just militarily but also morally and culturally.

He reminded me that the fight for Ukraine is also a fight for democracy, sovereignty, and human dignity values that unite veterans and patriots everywhere.

Beyond his military and academic background, Vlad is the founder of the Ukrainian Cultural Initiative, a nonprofit that promotes Ukrainian art, music, and cultural awareness across the United States.

Through his organization, he’s building bridges between Ukrainians and Americans by showcasing the beauty, creativity, and resilience of his people. Vlad emphasized that supporting Ukraine isn’t just about the battlefield; it’s about preserving a culture that refuses to be silenced.

As Vlad shared, there are many ways to make an impact — whether through advocacy, awareness, or humanitarian aid. Every act of support helps sustain the spirit of Ukraine and the people who continue to persevere against overwhelming odds.

I want to personally thank Vlad for joining me and sharing his story, wisdom, and heart. His message is one of courage, hope, and unwavering determination.

Слава Україні — Glory to Ukraine.