There is no such thing as a podcast without a Beyoncé debate. Here is ours. Are we ready for a Fleet Week in Miami? Should an E2 be driving around in a Tesla? The trio discusses some of the most toxic Navy eras that they can remember. Damon and Tisha debate if Cecily Aguilar’s 30-year sentence was fair or unfair. Damo asks if anyone has ever supported a command sports team. Are there any benefits to going outside of your rate for a package review? The team talks negative stereotypes about their rates and departments. Do Better: Damon - discusses his sleep doctor. Tisha - SoFi or ticket master. “Favoritism” is discussed. Is it once a Chief, always a Chief, right? Is the connection between the CPO Mess and the Wardroom in need of a boost? Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Tisha is actually a part of this episode. It’s just very hard to hear her. CPO Initiation season is officially upon us and Damon discusses feeling disconnected from season events due to his job schedule. Football season is upon us as well! Damon is finally picking Master Chief billets. He explains why he wouldn’t want to serve on the same ship as his son. Do Better: Damo - (1) his ability to shine his boots. (2) Your bad experience is not the Navy experience. Damon - Stop questioning the process. Damo reveals why he removed about 15 minutes for the last episode. Fact: Our young Sailors are survivors. Damo reviews a “Navy centric” app that he recently discovered. Damo recalls his “blackout” experience in Millington, questioning the military’s preparedness when unforeseen circumstances arise. Damon questions the amount of “red tape” that comes into play when you’re trying to make changes. The guys clarify some information from our last episode about enclosures for the “Letter to the Board” submission to ESSB. Rumor Mill for the first time on the pod! Let’s hear what’s the people are talking about on these deckplates. Should CMDCMs get more money? Do they even deserve it? Can an LCPO have 51% of the decision making process in his/her division? The concept of “disconnect” is explored going both up and down the chain of command. The guys address the MCPONs current focus on Chief Petty Officers and the CPO Initiation. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

MCPON CPO Initiation Introduction Letter -https://media.defense.gov/2023/Aug/16/2003282009/-1/-1/1/CPO%20INTRODUCTION%20TO%20INITIATION%20LETTER.PDF

MCPON Targeting Hazing to Combat Leadership Problems -https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/29/navys-top-enlisted-sailor-targeting-hazing-combat-leadership-problems.html

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Congratulations to all the CPO Selectees! Remember, you only get ONE season so soak it up and take advantage of the opportunity.

Damon and Damo are joined once again by CMDCS Aaron Paul. Damo and Aaron were both members of the current CPO Selection boards and they are here to tell the tale. Damo’s visit to Millington started out pretty eventful as a storm caused a blackout on the base and all over town. He rushed through the story as he recaps his time in Memphis, highlight restaurants, and the foods that he ate. The guys then get into sitting the Selection board, breaking down the process to the best of their recollection. They discuss their pros and cons regarding the Selection Board Process. What should you be thinking about as you’re planning for your next evaluation report? Is the Career Summary Letter necessary to be submitted with your LTB? Should you split your LTB to give the panel member an easier grading process? “Sustained Superior Performance” vs “Early Promote;” Damo asks Aaron for his opinion of which one holds more weight. Who made Chief within 5 years of going through Mast and being awarded a punishment? Is the “5 Year Penalty Box” a myth? Damon asks if is it possible to give feedback to every “Non-Select.” These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Board Life Pt. II - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bgif0zvzKfo

Board Life Pt. II - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlHtztMpnJQ

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Tisha and Damo hold down this episode, covering a wide range of topics, to include what to expect from our next episode. The cat’s out the bag as Damo confesses that he sat this year’s CPO Selection board and cannot wait to talk about it next week. A Virginia Beach Sailor recently hit the jackpot for 1.8 million. What would you do if you were in his shoes? The power of embracing new initiatives is discussed. Damo asks Tisha how her military experiences have impacted her personality. This leads to a conversation about past jobs and experiences. Tisha brings up the fact that there are people out there married military members for benefits. Why are there so many rumors of infidelity in military households? Well, because unfortunately in a lot of cases, it’s true. Tisha admits that she struggles with tardiness and it trying her best to “do better.” Damo admits that he gets nervous when people that he knows check out the podcast for the first time.  The duo speaks about professionalism when it comes to initially greeting senior leadership. Is it over for “technical expertise”?

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Tisha is back off of her vacation so the gang is in full form! To celebrate the 50th birthday of Hip Hop, the trio discusses their favorite eras of the music genre. There was a big time riverboat fight in Alabama that everyone is discussing. Is the “ball cap toss” a universal sign of distress? What is your worst (non-casualty related) fear on a Navy Vessel? Damon asks everyone what’s the thing that they sacrifice as they strive to be good leaders. Damo discusses his experience after reaching out to a Facebook group for Electrician’s Mates. Barracks room inspections are pretty interesting, especially when you find plastic bags over smoke detectors. Tisha catches the guys up on what she’s been doing on her break. She also talks about her next moves as she’s officially entering the world as a retired military veteran. A few of last week’s topics are revisited to include IET vs. duty section watches, southern cooking, and Damo’s statement about Chief Petty Officers being “middle management.” Is leadership a “role” or a “mindset”? Big salute to Admiral Lisa Franchetti on her selection as our new Chief of Naval Operations! “The Brandon Act” and the importance of having conversations regarding mental health is discussed. President Biden signed historic order moving prosecution of military sexual assault outside chain of command. With all these Unions being formed, what do we think about military unions? What in the world is going on in Fort Cavazos… now? Damo reviews the “Shellback” application that can be found in the Navy App Locker. Do Better: Damo - Not leveraging his Sailor’s work lists to do favors for fellow Chiefs. Tisha - TMO not understanding the “moving” assignment. Damon - People blindsiding him by tasking his people without reaching out to him first. Was Damo wrong for how he handled a situation with a Sailor during his RA duty? Damon asks are we seeing an end to the CPO Season. PTSF introduces another term, “Gatekeeper.” What is a gatekeeper and why gatekeepers can have a negative impact on their division. Should we be letting our people try to “work us out of our jobs?” These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

First Woman CNO https://www.defenseone.com/policy/2023/07/franchetti-chosen-become-first-woman-lead-navy/388748/

The Brandon Act https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/display-pressreleases/Article/3455609/department-of-navy-implements-brandon-act/

Prosecution of Military Sexual Assault Outside of the Chain of Command https://apple.news/AE093F-TwQ8Gg6c2fgq6q7w

With all of these unions being formed, what are you thoughts on military unions https://www.gao.gov/assets/fpcd-77-55.pdf

Fort Cavazos Soldiers Without Access to Proper Food for Months https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/08/fort-cavazos-soldiers-have-been-without-proper-access-food-months.html

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Revisit: You Owe You (Eric Thomas, PhD) - https://www.amazon.com/You-Owe-Ignite-Power-Purpose/dp/0593234987

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

Welp, Football is back! It’s definitely an exciting time of the year for Damon. Another Disciplinary Review Board (DRB) to start of the episode. What do you think is the best command coin?Have you ever wondered what’s it’s like to stand Resident Advisor (RA) watch in the barracks? What does it mean to let “power go to your head” in an organization as structured as the Navy? The term “micromanagement” is discussed. An update on a NAVADMIN that was released and discussed last week. Damo shares his “profound” story. How’s life treating you on that Aircraft Carrier? “Day After Duty” is discussed. Do you prefer “IET” or the normal duty section? Is the era of remote work coming to an end? Who cooks better - People from up north or people from the south? This initiates an age old conversation about who makes the best burger. Two US Navy Sailors were arrested for allegedly spying for China. Is battlestations supposed to be a secret? Damon discusses the woes of aging and trying to stay fit. Do Better: Taking leave to get out of getting underway (Damon), dropping NAVADMINs and programs without much context (Damo). The guys get into a few non-Navy topics, including writing down your goals and most surprising tv or film moment. Words of Wisdom: “The Command will survive without you.” An encounter with an old shipmate leads to a conversation about legacy and leaving a lasting impact on people. The MCPON publishes another “Call to Action,” this one is about Professional and Character development. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

MCPON’s Call to Action: Professional and Character Development - https://www.navy.mil/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=J-6EPo1JU7A%3d&portalid=1

Damo’s Book of the Week:

The Tipping Point (Malcolm Gladwell)- https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

With Tisha on vacation, Damon and Damo hold it down with a few critical topics. The conversation starts with Damo discussing his experience as a Resident Advisor living in the barracks. The guys provide updates on their personal lives and quickly get into the MCPON’s Call to Action to Chief Petty Officers addressing “Warfighting Competency.” A US Soldier, Pvt. Travis King, fled from South Korea to North Korea and the question is why. Who does that? Recruits are now enjoying concerts at Great Lakes? Damon’s “Do Better”: People with big trucks that are scared to drive them. Who knew the guys would ever talk about feedback reports? Quotas for selection to CPO are out. Best of luck to all to all who are eligible. NAVADMIN 168/23 just dropped accompanied by gripes, cheers, and a very funny social media back n’ forth. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

MCPON Call To Action: Warfighting Competency - https://www.navy.mil/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=zl2V3pCbyY4%3d&portalid=1

Pvt. Travis King - https://people.com/who-is-travis-king-american-soldier-detained-north-korea-7563138

NAVADMIN 168/23 - https://navadmin-viewer.github.io/?type=NAVADMIN&year=2023&number=168

Damo’s Book of the Week:

Up From Slavery (Booker T. Washington) - https://www.amazon.com/Up-Slavery-Dover-Thrift-Editions/dp/0486287386

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

WARNING: Explicit language throughout this episode. Do not listen with children around.

Tisha is running late. Damo had a few drinks. Damon will be the “Designated Driver’ for this ride! The guys get caught up on why they’ve been missing for a few weeks. Spoiler Alert: Blame Damon. Haha. Are HTs the DCs big bros? Recruiters were ordered to work 6 days a week but that was quickly shut down. A Class “C” fire was recently reported on the USS Abraham Lincoln, but why? Should rank “have its privileges”? Damo has an update (and more jokes) about the CMDCM that told his command to “clap like you’re in a strip club.” Is the “Division in the Spotlight” program necessary or a waste of time? Damon asks when will we have a woman be selected as the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy? Should 100% disability be awarded to every veteran that served over 20 years? The crew talks about their initial experiences when they checked into their first ships and walked into berthings for the first time. This leads to a conversation about women vs men berthing cleanliness. Damo reflect on his “shart” story. Is there a such thing as “too much liberty”? A 14 year old girl was found in a Marine barracks on Camp Pendleton. The family is alleging a human trafficking attempt. The opposition is claiming that she lied about her age. A Sailor was caught trying to engage in sexual relations with a minor. An armed Navy veteran was recently arrested near the Obama’s home. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this Episode:

Aircraft Carrier Fire - https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/military/story/2023-06-29/fire-abraham-lincoln-san-diego-bay

14-Year Old Girl Found in Barracks - https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/07/11/14-year-old-girl-found-pendleton-barracks-may-have-met-marine-tinder-new-documents-show.html

Fort Polk NCO Charged - https://www.stripes.com/branches/army/2023-06-02/fort-polk-nco-child-porn-adultery-10316556.html

Jan 6th Rioter Arrest Near Obama's Home - https://www.militarytimes.com/flashpoints/extremism-disinformation/2023/07/07/jan-6-rioter-arrested-near-obamas-home-is-navy-veteran/

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

On the inaugural edition of "Highlighting Our Heroes," the trio discusses the heroic effort of Captain David S. McCampbell, a.k.a. the "Ace of Aces." 

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Damon, Tisha, and Damo give their thoughts on the movie 'The Hurt Locker,' directed by Kathryn Bigelow The film stars Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackey.

Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0