Oscar Mike Radio

This Military Creator Con 2026 episode of Oscar Mike Radio is one I won’t forget.

I had the chance to sit down with Robin Johnson, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who made a bold and inspiring transition, from 20 years of military service to stepping onto the stand-up comedy stage.

That’s not a small leap. And Robin didn’t sugarcoat what it took to make it happen.

Robin retired in 2020, at a time when the world itself felt uncertain. Instead of playing it safe, she chose to pursue something completely different, comedy.

We talked about what that transition really looked like. The doubt, the risk, and the reality of starting over in a completely new field.

But we also talked about something deeper, how her time in the military shaped her voice as a comedian.

Because leadership, resilience, and perspective don’t go away after service. They evolve. And in Robin’s case, they found a new outlet through humor.

Stand-up comedy isn’t easy. It takes courage, consistency, and the willingness to fail in public and keep going anyway.

Robin shared the real challenges of building a career in comedy, from finding your voice to earning your place in a competitive space.

And what stood out to me most was this: humor isn’t just entertainment, it’s connection.

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation was exploring how humor can help us heal.

Robin explained how laughter connects directly to neuroplasticity, how our brains adapt, recover, and grow. That connection between humor and mental wellness is something we don’t talk about enough, especially in the veteran community.

But we should.

Because sometimes laughter is more than a reaction, it’s a release. A bridge. A way forward.

Robin also talked about her work with the Best Medicine Brigade, a support network for military-affiliated comedians.

This community is creating space for veterans and service members to express themselves, tell their stories, and support each other through comedy.

It’s another reminder that none of us have to navigate these transitions alone.

Beyond comedy, Robin is doing impactful work as a certified humor professional and a veteran fellow at Stanford’s Hoover Institution.

She’s taken her experiences, both in and out of uniform, and turned them into something that continues to serve others.

That’s a mission I can get behind.

This conversation is about more than comedy.

It’s about reinvention.

Robin’s story is proof that your next chapter doesn’t have to look anything like your last—and that’s a good thing.

If this conversation resonates with you, there’s still time to be part of something bigger.

Military Creator Con 2026 is bringing together veterans, service members, and creatives who are ready to take their ideas and passions to the next level.

Learn more and get your tickets here:

Robin, thank you for sharing your story, your honesty, and your perspective. Conversations like this matter, and I know it’s going to inspire others to take that next step, even when it feels uncertain.

We are Oscar Mike, Mission in Flight.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is one of the most emotional and urgent conversations I’ve had.

I sat down with Elizabeth Dubois, MBA, Ph.D. She is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Albany and the cousin of Army National Guard veteran JJ Millet, to talk about a situation that raises serious questions about how we treat veterans in crisis.

What we discussed isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.

JJ is currently facing domestic terrorism charges following a psychiatric crisis. A crisis that was reportedly triggered by a change in medication prescribed through the VA system.

As Elizabeth walked me through the timeline, one thing became clear: JJ didn’t act out of malice; he reached out for help.

Those actions don’t look like a threat; they look like someone asking for help.

One of the most troubling parts of this conversation was learning how JJ’s personal therapeutic journals were characterized.

What were intended as private tools for healing were initially labeled as a “manifesto.”

That kind of mischaracterization carries serious weight, and serious consequences.

Because it raises a difficult but important question:

What message does this send to other veterans?

If someone in crisis does everything we encourage, calls for help, surrenders weapons, seeks support, yet still faces severe criminal charges, what does that do to trust in the system?

Elizabeth and JJ are united in one message:

This is about:

Because when the system fails, even once, it creates hesitation for others who might be on the edge of reaching out.

And hesitation, in moments of crisis, can be dangerous.

What stayed with me most after this conversation was the need for compassion.

Veterans should never feel like asking for help could lead to punishment.

That’s the standard we should be holding ourselves to.

You can make a difference.

Start by sharing JJ’s story.

Because change begins when people are willing to speak up.

JJ, you are not alone.

And to Elizabeth, thank you for your courage in telling this story and standing up for your family.

This conversation is a reminder that we still have work to do, but it’s also a call to action.

We are Oscar Mike, Mission in Flight.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is deeply personal to me.

I’m dedicating it to the memory of Jessie Liu and Justin Gingeleskie, two individuals who faced pancreatic cancer with incredible strength and courage. Although they lost their battles, their stories continue to inspire us to keep fighting, to keep showing up, and to keep pushing forward for ourselves and for others.

Their legacy is a reminder that even in the hardest moments, purpose can still rise.

In this episode, I sit down with my colleague Brian Howson, whose journey into marathon running began during the COVID-19 pandemic’s uncertainty.

What began as a way to stay active quickly became something much more meaningful.

Brian shares how running the Boston Marathon became deeply personal for him. That connection turned every mile into something bigger than just a race. It became a mission.

Brian’s journey eventually led him to support Project Purple, an organization dedicated to pancreatic cancer research and patient support.

Hearing why he chose this cause, and how committed he is to make a difference hit home for me. This isn’t just about running. It’s about fighting back against a disease that impacts so many families, including those in the veteran community.

During our conversation, we dove into topics that matter:

One thing became clear: no one fights alone. And when people come together with purpose, real impact happens.

This episode is about more than running.

It’s about perseverance, purpose, and finding a way to turn pain into something meaningful.

Brian is doing exactly that by taking his personal journey and using it to raise awareness and support for a cause that truly matters.

Brian is currently raising funds for Project Purple, and I’m proud to stand behind him.

If you feel moved to support this mission, you can donate here:

Every contribution helps push research forward and supports those affected by pancreatic cancer.

Brian, thank you for sharing your story, your heart, and your purpose. You’re making a difference, and I know your journey will inspire others to keep moving forward no matter what they’re facing.

And to Jessie and Justin, we remember you. We honor you. And we carry your strength with us.

We are Oscar Mike, Mission in Flight

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is one of the most personal and emotional conversations I’ve ever had.

I sat down with Courtney Millett to talk about her brother, Joseph “JJ” Millett. Not as a headline, not as a court case, but as a human being. A brother. A veteran. Someone who served his country and came home carrying wounds most people will never fully understand.

Courtney speaks openly about JJ’s military service and his ongoing battle with PTSD. She shares what happened when everything changed, and how what should have been a cry for help turned into something far more painful for their family: confusion, fear, and the shock of watching a mental health crisis treated like a crime instead of a call for compassion.

This episode isn’t just about JJ. It represents something much bigger.

It’s about veterans who feel like they have to suffer in silence. It’s about families trying to stay strong while watching someone they love struggle. And it’s about the urgent need to respond to mental health challenges with empathy, understanding, and real support, not punishment.

If you listen to one episode that reminds you how powerful compassion can be, let it be this one.

Because behind every headline is a human story.

We are JJ Strong.

This one means a lot to me.

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with James and Marah Van Prooyen. They are the powerhouse couple behind Military Creator Con,  nd I can honestly say this conversation was something special.

From the moment we started talking, it was clear that what they’re building isn’t just an event. It’s a movement. A community. A place where military service members, veterans, spouses, and creatives can come together and realize that their voice, their story, and their creativity truly matter.

If you’re an active-duty service member, veteran, military spouse, or simply someone with a creative passion, you need to know about this.

Military Creator Con is designed specifically for people like us. People who want more than just ideas. People who want to turn those ideas into something meaningful.

During our conversation, we talked about how the event has evolved into a thriving, supportive community where creators can connect, collaborate, and grow.

One of the biggest takeaways for me was this: creativity is powerful, especially within the military and veteran community.

For many of us, creativity becomes an outlet. A way to process experiences, share stories, and build something new beyond our service.

James and Marah emphasized how important it is to create spaces where that creativity is not only welcomed—but encouraged and supported.

And that’s exactly what Military Creator Con does.

What makes this conference different is the people.

It’s not just about attending workshops; it’s about building relationships. It’s about networking with like-minded individuals who genuinely want to see you succeed.

We talked about:

This isn’t surface-level networking. These are real conversations, real connections, and real opportunities.

If you’ve been sitting on an idea…

This is your moment.

Military Creator Con is built to help you take that next step; with the tools, guidance, and community you need to move forward.

The conference is happening:

You can expect:

If you’re planning to attend, I’ve got something for you.

Use code: OMR202650

I truly hope to see you there.

And to James and Marah, thank you again for taking the time to come on the show. This conversation genuinely meant a lot to me, and I know it’s going to impact so many others as well.

We are Mission in Flight!

This week on Oscar Mike Radio, host Travis Partington sits down with Ben Read, a British Army veteran and former Rotary Wing Technician, for an insightful conversation on military service, career transition, and innovation in veteran support.

With 12 years of experience working on military helicopters, Ben brings a unique perspective on both the technical demands of service and the challenges of life after the military.

Ben Read’s military career focused on maintaining and supporting rotary wing aircraft—an essential and highly specialized role within the British Army. However, like many veterans, transitioning out of the military came with its own set of challenges.

In this episode, Ben discusses:

His story highlights a common issue: veterans often possess valuable skills but struggle to communicate them effectively in the civilian workforce.

One of the biggest barriers veterans face is translating their military roles into language that employers understand. Technical expertise, leadership, and problem-solving abilities don’t always fit neatly into traditional resumes.

This disconnect can lead to underemployment, frustration, and a difficult transition process.

To address this gap, Ben created Redeployable.io, a platform designed specifically to help veterans bridge the divide between military and civilian careers.

Using AI and personalized simulations, Redeployable.io helps users:

The platform supports veterans in both the United Kingdom and the United States, making it a valuable international resource.

During the episode, Travis shares his own experience using Redeployable.io. The process took approximately 60 minutes and involved a series of guided prompts designed to capture both military and professional experience.

While the platform requires detailed input, the outcome provides meaningful insights and actionable direction, making the time investment worthwhile.

One of the most compelling aspects of Redeployable.io is accessibility. The platform is completely free for veterans, removing financial barriers and making it easy for anyone to get started.

For veterans navigating uncertainty after service, this kind of tool can be a game-changer.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is especially valuable for:

Ben Read’s work is a strong example of how innovation and lived experience can come together to solve real-world problems.

Transitioning out of the military is never simple, but tools like Redeployable.io are helping make the process more structured, personalized, and effective.

Ben Read’s story is not just about his own journey. It’s about creating solutions that empower others. His work is helping veterans move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

If you’re a veteran, or know someone who is, this episode is well worth your time.

In this inspiring episode of Oscar Mike Radio, host Travis Partington sits down with Marie Henriksen, a former U.S. Army combat medic, to share a deeply personal story of struggle, healing, and transformation.

Marie’s journey is one of resilience—navigating the challenges of military service, overcoming trauma, and rebuilding her life through recovery.

As a combat medic in the U.S. Army, Marie Henriksen experienced the realities of military life firsthand. But like many veterans, the battles didn’t end when her service did.

She opens up about her experiences with trauma and addiction, shedding light on the often-unseen struggles veterans face after returning to civilian life. Her honesty creates a powerful space for understanding and connection.

A central part of Marie’s story is her recovery journey. Now approaching nine years of sobriety, she reflects on the work, commitment, and support it takes to maintain long-term recovery.

Her story offers hope to anyone facing similar challenges, proving that healing is possible—even after the darkest moments.

One of the most compelling aspects of Marie’s journey is how she found healing through creativity. She shares how:

These creative outlets became more than hobbies—they became essential tools for recovery and self-expression.

Marie emphasizes that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Community and faith played a crucial role in her recovery, providing support, accountability, and purpose.

Through connection with others, she found strength—and now encourages others to seek out community in their own healing journeys.

A key message from this episode is the importance of sharing your story. Marie believes that vulnerability is not weakness—it’s a bridge that helps others feel less alone.

By speaking openly about her experiences, she continues to inspire others to confront their struggles and begin their own path toward healing.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is a must-listen for:

Marie Henriksen’s story is a reminder that healing is possible—and that sharing your journey can make a difference in someone else’s life.

Through honesty, creativity, and connection, Marie Henriksen demonstrates what it means to rebuild a life with purpose. Her journey is not just about recovery—it’s about transformation and helping others along the way.

If you’re looking for a story of hope, resilience, and real-world healing, this episode delivers.

In a compelling episode of Oscar Mike Radio, host Travis Partington welcomes P.K. Edgewater—veteran, author, and teacher—for a deeply meaningful discussion on military life, legacy, and the long-lasting impact of war.

This episode offers more than just a conversation—it provides insight into the emotional realities veterans face and the healing power of storytelling.

P.K. Edgewater begins by sharing his family’s remarkable military history, a legacy shaped by generations of service. This foundation not only influenced his life but also inspired his writing, particularly his novel Passages.

Through this lens, listeners gain a deeper understanding of how military culture and generational experiences shape identity, duty, and personal struggle.

One of the central themes of the episode is the psychological and emotional toll of war—especially for Vietnam veterans. P.K. speaks candidly about:

This honest reflection highlights an often-overlooked aspect of military service: the enduring mental and emotional impact long after the battlefield.

P.K.’s novel Passages serves as a powerful vehicle for exploring trauma, healing, and human connection. The book delves into:

By blending fiction with emotional truth, Passages offers readers a relatable and compassionate perspective on the veteran experience.

Travis Partington, a Marine veteran and podcast host, reflects on his own journey and the mission behind Oscar Mike Radio. His work centers on one key belief: stories matter.

Through storytelling, veterans can:

This episode reinforces that storytelling is not just therapeutic—it’s transformative.

A major takeaway from this conversation is the importance of empathy. By listening to and sharing veteran stories, we can create stronger connections between military and civilian communities.

P.K. and Travis emphasize that understanding begins with listening—and that every story has the power to inspire, educate, and heal.

This episode of Oscar Mike Radio is a must-listen for anyone interested in veteran experiences, mental health, and the power of storytelling. P.K. Edgewater’s insights, combined with Travis Partington’s perspective, create a conversation that is both thought-provoking and deeply human.

Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or simply someone who wants to better understand the realities of military life, this episode offers valuable perspective and meaningful takeaways.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I sit down with Andrea Gayle-Bennett, Deputy Secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services and a retired Brigadier General, in honor of Black History Month.

We have an important conversation about the vital contributions of Black veterans across Massachusetts. Together, we reflect on the legacy of trailblazers like Marvin Gilmore and highlight the leadership of changemakers such as Nicole McClain and Catherine King.

This episode is about more than history; it’s about responsibility.

We talk about why these stories must be told, preserved, and elevated. By sharing the voices and lived experiences of Black veterans, we help educate the public, promote inclusion, and strengthen advocacy for equity, recognition, and opportunity within both the military and veteran communities.

Deputy Secretary Gayle-Bennett brings insight not only from her leadership role in state government, but also from her distinguished military service. Her perspective underscores the importance of representation, mentorship, and continued progress.

These conversations matter. They shape policy. They inspire action. And they ensure that the service and sacrifice of Black veterans are never overlooked.

I’m honored to help bring these stories forward.

To learn more about how veterans are served in Massachusetts, visit the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services website. (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services)

Deputy Secretary Bennett, thank you for taking the time to speak with me and for your continued service.

In recognition of the third week of Black History Month, this episode of Oscar Mike Radio examines the extraordinary legacy of the 369th Infantry Regiment, widely known as the Harlem Hellfighters.

This episode draws extensively from the research of Elizabeth De Pompei in Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Magazine. (https://digital.dav.org/publication/?i=858943&p=20&view=issueViewer) Her work significantly informed this discussion, and I am grateful for her contribution to bringing this important history to light.

The Harlem Hellfighters served with exceptional courage during World War I, spending more time in continuous combat than any other American unit of their era. Despite their bravery and battlefield success, they endured profound discrimination both within the military and upon returning home. Recognition of their service was delayed for decades, a reflection of the racial injustices of the time.

This episode underscores why it is so important to commemorate the achievements of Black veterans and to acknowledge the ongoing pursuit of equality in our nation. The story of the Harlem Hellfighters is not just military history; it is American history.

I encourage listeners to explore this significant yet often overlooked chapter further. Additional insights can be found in Smithsonian Magazine’s reporting (https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/one-hundred-years-ago-harlem-hellfighters-bravely-led-us-wwi-180968977).

Thank you to our sponsors and supporters for helping us continue to tell these important stories.