What is it really like to police one of the most violent eras in American history — and then bring law and order to countries shattered by war?

In this powerful interview, former law enforcement officer and author Mike shares what it was like working the streets of New York City during the height of the crack epidemic — a time when violent crime surged and officers faced life-or-death decisions daily. But his career didn’t stop there.

Mike went on to help rebuild policing systems in war-torn nations where governments had collapsed, infrastructure was destroyed, and communities were struggling to survive. From responding to violent crime in NYC to training police forces overseas, this conversation reveals the realities of law enforcement that most people never see.

You’ll learn:

✔ What policing was REALLY like during the crack epidemic

✔ How extreme street experience prepares officers for global missions

✔ What happens when a country has no functioning police force

✔ The psychological toll of high-risk law enforcement

✔ Leadership lessons from chaos, conflict, and rebuilding order

✔ The biggest myths about policing — and the truth behind them

Whether you're interested in law enforcement, military experience, leadership under pressure, or real-world stories from dangerous environments, this episode delivers raw insight from someone who has lived it.

If you enjoy conversations about service, resilience, and the realities behind the badge, make sure to subscribe for more interviews with veterans, leaders, and professionals operating in high-stakes roles.

http://jbbyrnenypd.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen on Apple

What do New Yorkers really think about Andrew Cuomo, politics, and the culture surrounding power and accountability?

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Sara Alessandrini, creator of the documentary miniseries This Is What New Yorkers Say, to unpack the real conversations happening on the streets of New York. Filmed over five years, her project captures unfiltered public opinion during and after the controversial tenure of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Rather than pushing a political agenda, Alessandrini’s work explores the human side of modern politics—examining women’s empowerment, cancel culture, due process, and how public perception collides with media narratives. Through candid interviews with everyday New Yorkers, the series exposes the complexity, contradictions, and emotional weight behind political opinion in one of the most influential cities in the world.

This conversation dives into the challenges of political filmmaking, the responsibility of storytelling, and why listening—rather than labeling—matters more than ever in today’s polarized climate.

Takeaways:

1. Filmmaker Sara Alessandrini explores the intricate intersection of New York politics and personal narratives in her documentary.
2. The documentary investigates how the resignation of Andrew Cuomo impacted everyday New Yorkers and their perspectives on governance.
3. Through Candid Conversations, the series delves into critical issues such as women's empowerment and the implications of cancel culture.
4. The project emphasizes the necessity of nuanced dialogue, allowing marginalized voices to be heard beyond mainstream narratives.
5. Sara's work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths regarding societal norms and the application of due process.
6. The documentary serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding the complexities of modern political landscapes and social justice movements.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. thisiswhatnew Yorkerssay.com
2. apple tv on demand
3. youtube
4. zoomo

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Candid Conversations
2. Fox
3. CNN

Mentioned in this episode:

Build your website today and start reaching Customers

Contact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

Lets build a show that will inspire generations!

Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

This episode of Spirits and Stories with Donald Dunn explores the often-unspoken realities of military service and the transition to civilian life through the story of Paul, a veteran who joined the military for practical reasons rather than idealism. He reflects on the motivations that led him to enlist, the financial decisions many young service members face, and the lessons learned through experience, mistakes, and growth.

Through candid and often humorous stories, the conversation examines how military life shapes identity, accountability, and resilience—and how those traits carry over into life after the uniform comes off. The episode also touches on the challenges of adapting to civilian roles, the pressure to appear successful despite personal struggles, and the different paths veterans take as they rebuild purpose and direction, including entrepreneurship.

At its core, this episode is about identity, adaptation, and the human side of life after service.

Takeaways

Many service members enlist for practical or financial reasons rather than patriotism alone.

Young soldiers often struggle with financial responsibility early in their careers.

Military service builds accountability and leadership, but those skills must be adapted for civilian life.

Transitioning out of the military can be challenging and disorienting.

Veterans often find new purpose by applying their experience to business, creativity, or entrepreneurship.

Links

nashvilleadventures.com

Companies mentioned

Singular

Amazon

Nashville Adventures

This podcast episode delves into the intricate narratives of military service, emphasizing the profound impact that such experiences have on personal growth and career trajectories. Our guests, both veterans, share their unique journeys into the military, recounting how motivations often stemmed from a desire for direction and purpose amidst life's challenges. The discussion further explores the evolution of military medicine and the vital role it plays in contemporary healthcare, particularly in response to modern threats. Noteworthy anecdotes reveal the camaraderie and resilience found within military life, illustrating that the bonds formed in service extend far beyond the battlefield. Through this dialogue, we aim to illuminate the multifaceted lives of veterans, challenging the perception that their stories are solely defined by combat, while also encouraging a greater understanding of their contributions to society. The dialogue between Speakers A and B unfolds in a candid and engaging manner, revealing their personal experiences and reflections on military life, notably their journeys before and after service. Speaker B, a Navy veteran, reminisces about his motivations for joining the military, shaped by a familial legacy of service and a desire for direction in life. The conversation highlights the transformative power of military service, as both speakers recount the impact of their experiences, particularly in the context of camaraderie and personal growth. They reflect on the complexities of transitioning to civilian life, discussing the challenges faced and the skills acquired during their service, which continue to resonate in their current endeavors. The episode encapsulates the essence of veteran narratives, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories that reflect both the trials and triumphs of military life, and the bonds formed through shared experiences. As the discussion progresses, a notable theme emerges regarding the evolution of medical practices within the military, with Speaker B detailing his journey into the medical field post-service. His experiences as a corpsman, coupled with subsequent advancements in emergency medicine, underscore a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. This perspective is particularly relevant given the rapid advancements in medical technology and practices, both in the military and civilian sectors. The exchange serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience required in the face of adversity and the ongoing quest for knowledge and growth, particularly in the context of healthcare. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the notion that the lessons learned in service extend far beyond the battlefield, shaping a lifetime of experiences and contributions to society. Concluding with reflections on the significance of storytelling, the speakers emphasize the cathartic nature of writing and the importance of sharing personal narratives. Speaker B’s journey into writing, spurred by his military experiences, illustrates the therapeutic power of expressing one’s thoughts and emotions through the written word. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace their stories, regardless of the medium, highlighting the healing potential inherent in sharing one’s truth. The episode encapsulates a broader message about the necessity of community and connections forged through shared experiences, advocating for a culture of openness and understanding, particularly among veterans. As the speakers navigate their pasts and present, they illuminate the path forward, encouraging others to reflect on their journeys and the narratives that define them.

Takeaways:

1. The speakers reflect on their military backgrounds and the personal motivations for joining the armed forces, emphasizing the importance of direction and purpose in life.
2. They discuss how their experiences in the military shaped their careers and personal lives, illustrating the transformative power of service and camaraderie.
3. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life, particularly in terms of maintaining relevant skills and adapting to new environments.
4. The speakers underscore the significance of storytelling and writing as a therapeutic outlet for veterans, allowing them to process their experiences and share their narratives with others.
5. They note the importance of building relationships within the military community, which often leads to career opportunities and support in civilian life.
6. The discussion touches on the evolving nature of medicine and emergency response, particularly how military experiences have influenced advancements in these fields.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. johnnygilpin.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen on Apple

Our guest, Danny Johnson, embodies the essence of clean, relatable comedy, having dedicated nearly two decades to the art of making people laugh while maintaining a sincere and genuine approach. Throughout his illustrious career, he has traversed the nation, performing at various venues including clubs, churches, and corporate events, where he draws upon his personal experiences with mental health challenges and physical struggles to craft humor that resonates deeply with audiences. His profound desire to momentarily alleviate the burdens of life for others underscores the heartfelt nature of his comedy. Danny's performances have garnered comparisons to iconic comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld and Kevin James, showcasing his exceptional writing skills, impeccable timing, and memorable facial expressions. As we engage in a revealing conversation, we explore the intricacies of maintaining a clean comedic style and the unique challenges that accompany it, all while celebrating the joy of laughter and connection within the audience. The podcast features an enlightening dialogue with Danny Johnson, a seasoned comedian renowned for his clean and relatable humor. With nearly two decades of experience, Danny has traveled extensively, showcasing his comedic talents in diverse venues, including clubs, churches, and corporate events. His humor is deeply rooted in his own experiences, encompassing struggles with mental health and the quest for self-improvement, which resonates profoundly with audiences seeking genuine and uplifting entertainment. Throughout the conversation, we explore the essence of clean comedy, the challenges and joys of making people laugh in a wholesome manner, and the significance of connection between the comedian and the audience. Danny's approach to comedy is not merely about eliciting laughter; it is about creating a shared moment of respite from the troubles of daily life. He emphasizes the responsibility comedians have to their audiences, especially when performing in environments where expectations for clean content are paramount. The episode not only highlights Danny's impressive career and notable performances but also delves into the nuances of crafting jokes that are both funny and appropriate, offering insights into the art of stand-up comedy that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Takeaways:

1. The podcast features Danny Johnson, a comedian renowned for his clean and relatable humor, accumulated over nearly two decades.
2. Johnson's comedy draws inspiration from his personal struggles with mental health, offering audiences a momentary escape from their own troubles.
3. He has performed at a variety of venues, including clubs, churches, and corporate events, showcasing his versatility as a clean comedian.
4. The discussion highlights the challenges of maintaining audience engagement, particularly in environments not solely focused on comedy, such as bars or casinos.
5. Johnson emphasizes the importance of building a connection with the audience to enhance their experience during performances.
6. The episode also touches upon the evolution of comedy in the age of social media, where content creators often leverage their online following to transition into live performances.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. dannyjohnson.com
2. youtube.com
3. apple.com
4. amazon.com
5. peacock.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Comedy Central
2. Dry Bar Comedy
3. Netflix
4. Cobra Kai
5. Amazon
6. Peacock
7. Jim Gaffigan

What if the thing blocking your book isn’t craft, time, or talent—but identity? In this episode of Authors After Action, bestselling author and transformational coach Nina Amir reveals why most writers fail long before page one—and how inner alignment is the real publishing advantage.

Nina shares her journey from childhood horse stories to magazine journalism, book editing, and ultimately walking away from industry-defined success to reclaim purpose. She explains why publishing is a business, how authors sabotage themselves by skipping platform and planning, and why personal growth is the hidden engine behind every meaningful book.

This conversation bridges the practical and the personal—covering self-publishing vs. traditional deals, the dangers of vanity presses, how to think like a publisher, and what actually happens when writers face rejection. Nina reframes “no” as data, not destiny, and shows how authors can step into the identity required to do the work.

If you’ve ever said “someday I’ll write my book,” this episode shows you why someday is the enemy—and what it really takes to become the author you say you want to be.

1. Publishing is a business—whether you self-publish or sign a traditional deal, you must think like an entrepreneur.
2. The biggest mistake new authors make is skipping audience-building and platform work.
3. Self-publishing means owning all the risk: editing, design, marketing, and distribution.
4. Rejection isn’t personal; it’s feedback about product-market fit.
5. You can learn every step of publishing—but you must be willing to grow.
6. You don’t become an author after you publish—you publish after you become an author.

1. Nina Amir (Main Site): https://ninaamir.com
2. Write Nonfiction Now: https://writenonfictionnow.com
3. Books by Nina Amir: https://booksbyninaamir.com
4. Change the World One Book at a Time (New Book): Available at all major booksellers
5. Nonfiction Writers University – via https://ninaamir.com
6. Inspired Creator Community – via https://ninaamir.com
7. Free 15-Minute Session with Nina – available on her website

1. Amazon
2. Barnes & Noble
3. IngramSpark
4. Draft2Digital
5. Smashwords
6. Syracuse University
7. Self Magazine

1. 00:00:02 – Welcome to Authors After Action & Meet Nina Amir
2. 00:00:58 – Childhood Stories and the First Call to Write
3. 00:02:24 – From Journalism School to Publishing
4. 00:05:23 – Psychology, Coaching, and the Inner Path
5. 00:06:41 – The Most Common Author Mistake
6. 00:07:22 – Why Publishing Is a Business
7. 00:08:10 – Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Deals
8. 00:16:38 – IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and Distribution Reality
9. 00:18:16 – Vanity Presses & Costly Traps
10. 00:23:39 – What Writers Do Next With Nina
11. 00:27:52 – Handling Rejection Without Quitting
12. 00:32:07 – Why “Fit” Matters in Publishing
13. 00:35:12 – Where to Find & Work With Nina Amir

Authors After Action reveals the human journeys behind the books—and this episode proves that every real story begins with an inner decision.

In this episode of Authors After Action, we bring you a powerful storytelling podcast experience grounded in real life stories, inspiring interviews, and the depth of the human experience. We sit down with Elise Allison—sailor, author, and adventurer—whose personal journey carried her from a New Jersey horse farm to life on the open ocean.

Alison has sailed through forty-six countries across four continents, transforming each port, culture, and challenge into stories for adults and children alike. Through deep conversations, she shares how living on a boat strips life down to its essentials—survival, connection, and wonder—and how that simplicity reshaped both her worldview and her writing.

This episode explores overcoming adversity through reinvention: leaving stability behind, embracing uncertainty, and discovering freedom in motion. Alison resilience stories reveal how adventure becomes art, how the sea teaches humility, and how storytelling can spark curiosity and environmental awareness in the next generation.

These life lessons remind us that purpose often waits beyond comfort. Whether you’re drawn to travel, creativity, or stories of transformation, this conversation offers a moving portrait of what happens when you trade routine for the horizon and let experience become your teacher.

Takeaways:

1. A bold leap can turn dreams into lived reality.
2. Life at sea simplifies priorities and deepens human connection.
3. Real adventure fuels authentic storytelling.
4. Travel inspires curiosity, empathy, and environmental awareness.
5. Creativity flows when rooted in lived experience.
6. Write what excites you to keep passion alive.

Links Referenced in This Episode:

AlisonGeishen.com

Sailmates.org

Companies Mentioned in This Episode:

Defiance Press

The primary focus of this podcast episode centers on the transformative power of storytelling and its profound impact on personal growth and confidence-building. We engage in a compelling conversation with Simone Canego, who shares her diverse journey from a background in accounting to her current passion for storytelling and podcasting. Through her experiences, she emphasizes that one’s career path need not be linear, and encourages listeners to embrace their unique stories as vital components of their identity. Furthermore, we explore the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal narratives, particularly in the context of mental health and self-acceptance. This episode serves as an enlightening reminder that our individual stories can resonate deeply with others, fostering connection and understanding in an increasingly disconnected world.

Takeaways:

1. The journey of personal growth often encompasses unexpected twists, as evidenced by my transition from a career in accounting to pursuing storytelling, which I am genuinely passionate about.
2. Engaging in open discussions about our life experiences can profoundly impact others, as sharing our stories fosters connection and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges.
3. Podcasting serves not only as a platform for sharing narratives but also as a therapeutic outlet, allowing us to explore our emotions and experiences in a supportive environment.
4. The importance of confidence cannot be overstated; it is a skill that can be cultivated through practice and experience, as highlighted in our discussions about the growth of my daughter during our podcasting journey.
5. Each episode we produce serves as an opportunity for growth, both for our guests and ourselves, as we navigate the complexities of storytelling and the authentic sharing of experiences.
6. The realization that our struggles resonate beyond our immediate circles is crucial; many listeners relate to the narratives shared, prompting reflection and connection in their own lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. simonecanego.com
2. realconfidencebook.com
3. ordinary.simonecanego.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. ABC

Mentioned in this episode:

Listen on Apple

In this episode of The Healing Side, we deliver a powerful storytelling podcast experience rooted in real life stories, deep conversations, and the evolving human experience of healing. We sit down with Lincoln Stoller—physicist turned psychotherapist—whose personal journey bridges science, spirit, and psychology into a unified approach to understanding the mind.

Lincoln shares how quantum mechanics, mountaineering, cultural immersion, and therapy converge in his work. Through deep conversations, we explore the hidden language of dreams, the nature of trauma, and why altered states of awareness reveal truths ordinary thinking cannot reach. We talk about PTSD and anger, symbolism and self-actualization, and why “empty space”—not constant productivity—is where true growth begins.

This episode is about overcoming adversity at the inner level. Lincoln explains the difference between chosen risk and imposed trauma, why anger works in war but fails in civilian life, and how fear and projection become tools for healing. These resilience stories reveal that dreams are not random—they are symbolic maps guiding us back to wholeness.

You’ll walk away with meaningful life lessons about awareness, creativity, and the courage to listen to what the mind is already saying. If you’ve ever wondered how science and spirituality truly meet—or how healing actually begins—this conversation invites you to expand how you understand yourself.

🌐 Learn more about Lincoln:

mindstrengthbalance.com

Show Notes Highlights:

1. Lincoln’s path from physicist to psychotherapist
2. Shared roots of trauma in academia, business, and combat
3. Chosen risk versus imposed trauma
4. Dreams as symbolic language (and why dictionaries mislead)
5. The role of “empty space” in healing and creativity
6. PTSD, flashbacks, and altered states of awareness
7. Why anger works in war but fails in civilian life
8. Using fear and projection as therapeutic tools
9. Science, spirit, and symbolism as one model of the mind
10. Self-actualization as modern enlightenment

What does it really take to build leaders inside a small business—without burning people out or losing your culture?

In this episode of The Real Leadership Brief, Donald Dunn sits down with Rich Ashton, a Navy veteran and entrepreneur with more than four decades of experience building, fixing, and selling companies across multiple industries.

Rich breaks down why most small businesses struggle with leadership development, how military leadership must evolve in civilian environments, and why growth stalls when companies fail to invest in people before processes.

This conversation is built for:

1. Veterans transitioning into business
2. First-time supervisors
3. Founders trying to scale without losing culture
4. Entrepreneurs stuck at a growth ceiling

You’ll learn:

1. Why leadership in business is different than in the military
2. How to identify a person’s “leadership ceiling”
3. The hidden danger of authoritarian middle management
4. Why communication must be circular, not top-down
5. How personal growth and professional leadership are inseparable
6. Why investing in people changes everything

Rich also introduces his book Growing Your Own, a practical guide for small business owners who want to build leaders from within instead of importing them.

This episode isn’t theory—it’s real-world leadership from the trenches.