Puddle Pirate Sea Stories

What does a Coast Guard Marine Science Technician (MST) actually do? Lucas Loe explains how he joined the Coast Guard and why he chose the MST rate. He talks through his unit assignments, A School and how the job ties back to regulations. He also covers MST qualifications, pollution response missions and day-to-day life on the job. To close, he shares the career benefits of becoming an MST and what his current recruiting role involves. If you're weighing your Coast Guard rate options, this one's for you.

A conversation with Brooke Millard, CEO of Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) and former Coast Guard Commander — covering her time aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, how technology is reshaping command at sea, and CGMA's mission supporting Coast Guard members and their families. Real stories of CGMA stepping in to help, what the annual golf tournament is like, and how to get involved.

What will the National Coast Guard Museum mean for generations of Coast Guardsmen, veterans, families, and the American public?

In this special episode of the Puddle Pirate Podcast, we traveled to New London, Connecticut, for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the future National Coast Guard Museum. Joining us is Retired Captain Wes Pulver, President of the National Coast Guard Museum, who shares the vision behind this long-awaited project, the stories it will preserve, and why it's so important to honor the Coast Guard's legacy.

In this episode of the Puddle Pirate Podcast, I sit down with Lt. Boyd, Regional Leader at Coast Guard Recruiting Headquarters, to talk about what it really takes to recruit the next generation of Coasties — and how that mission has evolved over the years.

We dive into:

• How Coast Guard recruiting has changed in today’s environment

• The challenges and opportunities facing recruiters right now

• What it means to represent the service in a digital-first world

• His role as an Ambassador for the Coast Guard Marathon

• The discipline behind training for 26.2 miles

• And yes… his legendary sneaker collection

Lt. Boyd is more than a recruiter — he’s someone using his platform to positively influence, educate, and inspire. Whether you’re thinking about joining, currently serving, or just love seeing Coasties chase big goals, this conversation hits on leadership, resilience, and staying mission-focused both in uniform and on the pavement.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of Coast Guard recruiting — or what it takes to prepare for the Coast Guard Marathon — this one’s for you.

Semper Paratus. And maybe lace up those shoes.

In this episode, we sit down with AST3 Cimoli from Air Station Atlantic City, the new lead for the Aviation Workout to Remember—a powerful annual event created to honor the fallen crew of CG6535, lost on February 28, 2012.

AST3 Cimoli shares his journey into the Coast Guard, what drew him to become a rescue swimmer, and how service, sacrifice, and remembrance continue to shape his career. We also dive into what the Aviation Workout to Remember is all about, why it matters to the aviation community, and how it continues to honor those we’ve lost while strengthening those still standing the watch.

This is a conversation about purpose, legacy, and what it truly means to be Always Ready.

What do 35 countries, a Coast Guard passport, and a cup of Guatemalan coffee have in common? Coffee Mike.

In this episode, retired Coast Guard Chief Coffee Mike shares the story of how a little-known unit took him around the world — and unexpectedly led him to his next calling. From humanitarian missions to high-altitude farms, this journey blends service, culture, and the spark that launched a post-military coffee career.

If you're active duty, a veteran, or just love a good sea story with a strong brew, this one's for you.

In this special Small Business Saturday episode, we're answering one of the most common questions we get: "Who is Puddle Pirate?"

We’re diving into how this Coast Guard-inspired brand got its start, where the name came from, and why community means everything to us. From late-night ideas to standing up a mission-driven business, this episode is all about the people behind the gear and the purpose that keeps it going.

If you've ever worn our tees, stood a watch, or supported a small business—this one’s for you.

Thanks for being part of the crew.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Hyacinthe and Tyler Way of HAS HEART to explore how storytelling, design, and purpose come together to honor our nation's veterans. From the evolution of HAS HEART's mission—partnering directly with veterans—to Puddle Pirate’s focus on elevating Coast Guard voices, the conversation dives deep into the shared passion behind both brands.

We cover the behind-the-scenes challenges of running a purpose-driven store, and the healing power of art in the veteran community. Plus, hear about HAS HEART’s inspiring Art Prize initiative and their bold vision to transform the veteran community. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in design, service, and meaningful impact.

Join us as we sit down with a Coast Guard Avionics Electrical Technician to get an inside look at the work that keeps our aircraft mission-ready. From troubleshooting complex systems to keeping the fleet flying, he shares what a typical day looks like, the challenges of the job, and the pride that comes with serving in this critical role. Of course, no conversation with a shipmate would be complete without a few sea stories—tales that will make you smile, nod, and remember why the Long Blue Line runs strong through every rate.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with the team from The Mikey Foundation — a nonprofit born from one Coast Guard member’s personal battle and survival. What began as a story of darkness has become a beacon of hope for others still navigating theirs. Built by Coasties, for Coasties, The Mikey Foundation provides critical support to those facing mental health challenges, offering connection, purpose, and a lifeline when it’s needed most. Tune in to hear how this organization is saving lives, building community, and reminding every service member that they’re never alone.