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Southern California’s second wildfire season is here, fueled by Santa Ana winds and utility shut-offs. In this episode, I update my Emergency Preparedness Bag for winter 2025—what I’ve added, removed, and why. I cover evacuation lessons, prepping for multi-day outages, and how I pack for fast movement (including with my dog).

Key Takeaways

• Build seasonally: match your kit to your most likely risks (here: wind-driven fire spread + power shut-offs).
• Plan the boring logistics: documents, spare keys, pet needs, and where you’ll actually go if shelters aren’t pet-friendly.
• Test gear before you trust it (some “emergency” items are one-and-done in real life).
• Keep hygiene & simple medical tools—small habits prevent big problems.
• Comms matter: even a basic radio can keep you informed when cell/data fails.

Disclaimers
I’m not a fire science or CBRN specialist. This video reflects my professional background in security/emergency response and my personal preparedness approach. If you’re a subject-matter expert, please drop clarifications/tips in the comments so we can all learn.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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In this powerful continuation of our conversation, Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of Tiwaz Awakening, Luke Jensen, returns to take us deeper into the world of brain mapping, neurofeedback, and the science behind trauma healing.

We go beyond plant medicine in this episode—exploring the cognitive and neurological impacts of PTSD, depression, and emotional trauma. Luke breaks down how QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback can provide visible, measurable improvements in brain function—often helping clients recover from years of trauma without pharmaceuticals.

We also talk about:
🧠 What your brain waves reveal about your mental health
🌿 The role of neuroplasticity in healing
🧬 Luke’s published studies on ayahuasca, San Pedro, and coca leaf
🎬 His award-winning documentary Cross Paths
🇮🇸 Upcoming retreats in Peru and Iceland
👨‍🔬 And why science is finally catching up to what ancient traditions knew all along

Luke is not only contributing groundbreaking research to this field—he’s also leading by example, bringing together plant medicine, martial arts, and brain science to create one of the most integrative healing retreats in the world.

🔗 Learn more about upcoming retreats: https://twasawakening.com
🧠 Brain mapping & neurofeedback: https://neuroenlightenment.com
📖 Read Luke’s article in W3 Magazine: https://jessievirga.com/w3magazine
🎥 Watch Part 1 here: https://youtu.be/44WGX0zV7Ds

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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From the battlefield to the sacred circle, Marine Corps veteran Luke Jensen shares his powerful journey of healing through ayahuasca, jiu jitsu, and deep spiritual work. In this episode, we explore the origins of Tiwaz Awakening, a retreat in the Peruvian Andes that blends plant medicine, martial arts, hiking, and neurofeedback to reconnect the soul with the body.

Luke and I dive into the discipline behind real shamanic practice, the importance of preparation, and the sacred nature of these ancient rituals—far from the trendy fads we often see in pop culture.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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In this episode, I break down the latest U.S. Intelligence Community assessment on Iran—and why the threat is more serious than ever. Following Iran’s successful attack on Israel and the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, we take a deeper look at Iran’s military ambitions, cyber warfare, proxy networks, and internal instability. This isn’t just about the Middle East—this is a global threat that demands attention. Stay informed. Stay prepared.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

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Featured on Fox News and now on the Dr. Virga Podcast

In this powerful new episode, Marine Corps veteran Joey Mac Dizon shares how he turned his love for cigars and camaraderie into The Mobile Cigar Lounge — a nationally recognized, veteran-owned business that delivers curated cigar experiences to weddings, private events, and corporate celebrations across the country.

More than just cigars, Joey’s story is about brotherhood, nostalgia, and building a business rooted in service. From lighting cigars at retirement ceremonies to honoring family memories, his team has created a unique and meaningful way to connect with others — one celebration at a time.

🎙️ Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.
 🎁 Book now and mention The Dr. Virga Podcast for 20 extra cigars with your package.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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In this episode, I break down my full EDC backpack—what I call my "get-me-to-safety" bag.
Built for real-world emergencies, this isn’t about flashy gear—it’s about medical essentials, survival tools, dual-use items, and smart packing that could save your life if home is compromised.

From my Leatherman ARC and Nitecore power bank to my Grail water filter and MSR Pocket Rocket stove, I walk you through what I carry, why it matters, and how I’ve built this bag to adapt with the seasons.

🔧 Real gear. 💡 Real use. ❤️ Real tribute to a Marine who never stopped checking in.
 Don't forget to subscribe and drop a comment—what’s in your EDC bag?

#EDC #GetHomeBag #EverydayCarry #Preparedness #SurvivalGear #VeteranOwned #DrVirgaPodcast

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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From full-size sidearms to a mission-ready Garmin Tactix 7 Pro watch — this is my everyday carry (EDC) setup built from years of real-world experience as a medic, veteran, and first responder. Every piece has a purpose. Stay agile. Stay ready. Let’s break it down.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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From the front lines to figurines — in this episode of the Dr. Virga Podcast, I sit down with retired Army combat medic and owner of Tactics 2 Toys, Anthony Ciotti. We dive into his 30+ years of military service, how he turned a love for pop culture into a thriving collectibles business, and the ups and downs of veteran entrepreneurship. If you're a fan of horror, hip hop, D&D, or just a good underdog story — this one’s for you.

🎧 Available on:
 YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio

🛒 Check out Anthony’s store: https://www.tactics2toys.com

--

Anthony Ciotti, Tactics 2 Toys, Dr. Virga Podcast, veteran entrepreneur, combat medic, military to business, Army Reserve, pop culture collectibles, e-commerce success story, horror collectibles, action figure business, D&D community, board game seller, veteran small business, military transition, veteran-owned business, toy collector, entrepreneurship for veterans, online toy store, collectible toys

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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Special Guest: Anthony Ciotti, US ARMY Combat Medic, Retired

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine

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Think EDC is just a trend? Think again. In this episode, we uncover the real history of Everyday Carry—how humans have been carrying essential tools from the Stone Age to the digital age. From Roman satchels to modern pocket dumps, EDC has always been about survival, identity, and readiness.

Whether you're minimalist or tactical, your gear tells a story.
So what’s in your pocket?

Watch now and discover how EDC evolved into a culture—and a way of life.

More from Jessie Virga:
Website: https://www.jessievirga.com
W3 Magazine: https://www.thew3mag.com
MB Security: https://www.mbsecurityusa.com
K&L Animal Rescue: https://www.klrescue.org

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not legal, medical, security, financial, fitness, business, or professional advice. Some links may be affiliate links.

#DrVirgaPodcast #Preparedness #Security #Resilience #W3Magazine