Welcome to the O2X limited series Optimizing Parenthood - A Guide to Leading the Next Generation.

Over this 5 episode limited series we will explore the science, strategies, and practical wisdom behind raising healthy, confident, and resilient young adults. Hosted by O2X Vice President of Government Brendan Stickles, this podcast brings together leading experts in sleep science, nutrition, fitness, psychology, and personal development to help parents navigate the complexities of modern parenting.

Episode #2 features O2X Sleep & Fatigue Management Specialist Jaime Lee Tartar. Dr. Tartar is a Professor of Neuroscience at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). She serves as the neuroscience program director and research director for the NSU College of Psychology. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from NSU and a Master of Arts degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University where she used EEG measure to detect subclinical neurological impairments. She earned her Ph.D. in the Behavioral Neuroscience program at the University of Florida where the focus of her research involved discovering long-term changes that occur in neurobiological pathways involved in stress responses and developing animal models of stress. During graduate school Dr. Tartar also served for 6 years in the U.S. Army Reserves. Dr. Tartar completed Postdoctoral Training at Harvard Medical School where she studied neurological consequences of sleep perturbations using in vitro electrophysiological recording techniques. She also received training in Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School. In her professional career Dr. Tartar was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from NSU based on her work and contributions to NSU and the scientific community. She was also the NSU Professor of the year at NSU in 2018 and received the NSU Excellence in Teaching Award in 2009. Dr. Tartar has received multiple funding grants through the Department of Education and has received research funding from the Department of Defense. She has published over 55 original research articles and has written several book chapters. Based on her expertise, she consults for multiple prestigious organizations and served on the scientific advisory board for the National Academy of Sports Medicine and regularly serves as a peer review panelist for NASA. Dr. Tartar is also a scientific advisor for Enchanted Wave, LLC where she oversees their research in using single channel EEG. She is the co-founder and President of The Society for NeuroSports — an academic organization for the field of Sports Neuroscience. Dr. Tartar’s current research is focused on stress, sleep, and athletic performance in humans.

Be sure to tune into the following episodes over the following weeks...

Episode 1: Dr. Katy Turner on building confidence and resilience within young adults 

Episode 2: Dr. Jaime Tartar on optimizing sleep schedules for the whole family  

Episode 3: Josh Lamont on creating fitness habits in our youth

Episode 4: Dr. Nick Barringer on developing sustainable and healthy eating habits

Episode 5: Adam La Reau on introducing goal setting and habit building to young adults

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to the O2X limited series Optimizing Parenthood - A Guide to Leading the Next Generation.

Over this 5 episode limited series we will explore the science, strategies, and practical wisdom behind raising healthy, confident, and resilient young adults. Hosted by O2X Vice President of Government Brendan Stickles, this podcast brings together leading experts in sleep science, nutrition, fitness, psychology, and personal development to help parents navigate the complexities of modern parenting.

Episode #1 features Dr. Katy Turner who discusses building confidence and resilience within young adults. Dr. Katy Tran Turner is the Manager of Curriculum and Learning Design at O2X, where she is responsible for compiling content, researching relevant background information, and helping create world-class training materials for a variety of clients and events. Additionally, Katy serves as an O2X Mental Performance Specialist, specializing in developing mental skills that optimize performance in high-pressure, fast-paced, and dynamic environments. Her expertise focuses on enhancing decision-making, confidence, self-regulation, and present-moment focus during high-stress performance moments. Dr. Turner served as the mental performance coach for the Buffalo Sabres for five seasons and spent two seasons with the Buffalo Bills, where she contributed to multidisciplinary teams providing holistic support. Before her time with professional athletes in Western New York, Katy worked with soldiers at Fort Bragg, NC, providing mental performance training for tactical athletes. Her experience also includes working in NCAA Division I athletics departments in student-athlete services and supporting a wide range of sports. Dr. Turner holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology from Florida State University. She also earned a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Kent State University and undergraduate degrees in Biology and Exercise & Sport Science from UNC-Chapel Hill. 

Be sure to tune into the following episodes over the following weeks...

Episode 1: Dr. Katy Turner on building confidence and resilience within young adults 

Episode 2: Dr. Jaime Tartar on optimizing sleep schedules for the whole family  

Episode 3: Josh Lamont on creating fitness habits in our youth

Episode 4: Dr. Nick Barringer on developing sustainable and healthy eating habits

Episode 5: Adam La Reau on introducing goal setting and habit building to young adults

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to the O2X limited series Optimizing Parenthood - A Guide to Leading the Next Generation.

Over the next 5 episodes we will explore the science, strategies, and practical wisdom behind raising healthy, confident, and resilient young adults. Hosted by O2X Vice President of Government Brendan Stickles, this podcast brings together leading experts in sleep science, nutrition, fitness, psychology, and personal development to help parents navigate the complexities of modern parenting.

Each episode will dive deep into a crucial aspect of child development—from establishing sleep routines and building healthy eating habits to fostering confidence, resilience, and goal-setting skills. Whether you're dealing with a picky eater, struggling with bedtime battles, or wondering how to help your child build lasting habits, this podcast offers actionable insights grounded in research and real-world experience.

Be sure to tune into the following episodes over the following weeks...

Episode 1: Dr. Katy Turner on building confidence and resilience within young adults 

Episode 2: Dr. Nick Barringer on developing sustainable and healthy eating habits  

Episode 3: Josh Lamont on creating fitness habits in our youth  

Episode 4: Dr. Jaime Tartar on optimizing sleep schedules for the whole family   

Episode 5: Adam La Reau on introducing goal setting and habit building to young adults

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population.

"The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.

Part 5 features O2X Human Performance Program Manager w/ U.S. Navy's Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Atlantic (HSCWL) Mike Vidas and Senior Chief Naval Aicrewman Josh Baldwin.

Senior Chief Naval Aicrewman - Helicopter (AWSCS NAC/AW/SW) Josh Baldwin currently serves as the Senior Enlisted Aircrewman at HSC-7, where he plays a key leadership role in training, mentoring, and operational readiness for the squadron’s aircrew community. With over two decades of experience in Naval Aviation, he has deployed extensively and brings a deep understanding of what it takes to lead high-performing teams in dynamic environments. Known for his commitment to excellence and building a culture of accountability, Senior Chief Baldwin is a driving force behind HSC-7’s mission success and professional development efforts.

Mike Vidas is an O2X On-Site Human Performance Specialist and Program Manager specializing in Strength and Conditioning at HSWCWL-Norfolk. With a passion for leadership and personal development, Mike is committed to helping others reach their full potential. His role involves designing and implementing performance programs tailored to the specific needs of tactical athletes, ensuring they remain fit, functional, and ready for their demanding roles. Before joining O2X, Mike spent over a decade as an entrepreneur, opening and managing three CrossFit gyms, including two in Taiwan and one in New Jersey. Additionally, Mike served four years in the Navy as an Aviation Ordnanceman and Aviation Warfare Systems Operator, deploying in support of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). His diverse background spans professional, collegiate, and high-level high school athletes, where he collaborated with orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and athletic trainers to create personalized fitness plans. Mike has also worked with individuals in the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and law enforcement to optimize their physical performance for operational readiness. 

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

-Will Gervin is a 22 year veteran of the law enforcement community and currently serves as a Captain on Virginia Beach Police Department.

-He graduated from Norfolk State University with his Bachelors Degree and from Troy University with his MPA. He joined the Virginia Beach Police Department in 2003 and has risen to the rank of Captain where he currently serves as the Commanding Officer of the 4th precinct. The 4th precinct is comprised of approximately 135,000 residents within the City of Virginia Beach - with 4th precinct command consisting of about 100 personnel, sworn and professional staff combined. This includes 3 Lieutenants and 12 Sergeants who make up the leadership team a long with him.

-He is also a graduate of the FBI's National Academy and from the Virginia Association of Chief's of Police, Professional Executive Leadership Program (PELS).

-He’s a firm believer in living a fit lifestyle that includes good nutrition that feeds the body, soul, and spirit. He believes in the mirror principle and being intentional about controlling what is going on inside of you, because that will reflect outwards in the physical realm in your real life. His goal in leadership is to influence/inspire and to leave people & places better than he found them.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

-Marlon Moraes is a UFC veteran and a law enforcement officer with Coral Springs (FL) Police Department.

-From 2014 to 2016, he won 5 world titles in The World Series of Fighting - which eventually became The Professional Fighters League or PFL.

-After his success in the PFL, he was signed to the UFC in 2017. From November of 2017 to February of 2019 he rattled off a 4 fight win streak which ultimately resulted in shot at the UFC Bantamweight title.

-Some notable wins from his career include former UFC Champion Jose Aldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA Featherweights of all time, and former UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling.

-Now, in retirement, he has joined the law enforcement community, recently becoming a member of Coral Springs Police Department.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population.

"The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.

Part 4 features O2X Program Manager Brendan Stickles and Captain David "Heavy" Ganci.

Captain David "Heavy" Ganci, a Naval Flight Officer who commissioned through OCS in 1999, has served as a cornerstone of the VAQ Electronic Attack community for over two decades. His operational career spans combat deployments with four distinguished squadrons—the "Gauntlets" of VAQ-136, "Patriots" of VAQ-140, "Gray Wolves" of VAQ-142, and as commanding officer of the "Zappers" of VAQ-130—participating in Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, New Dawn, and Inherent Resolve. Between operational tours, he served as a tactics instructor at the Electronic Attack Weapons School, worked as Assistant Aviation Officer Community Manager at PERS-43, earned his Master's degree at the Naval War College, and served in the Pentagon's Office of Legislative Affairs before being selected as Aide-de-Camp to Secretary of the Navy Kenneth Braithwaite. Currently serving as Deputy Commodore of Commander Electronic Attack Wing U.S. Pacific Fleet, Captain Ganci's decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Individual Action Air Medal with combat "V," and Strike Flight Air Medal with six awards, reflecting a distinguished career leading the Airborne Electronic Attack Community across the globe.

Brendan Stickles currently serves as Program Manager for Federal Government Accounts at O2X Human Performance, following a distinguished career that blended military service with high-level government advisory roles. A Navy Commander with over 18 years of jet flying experience and more than 550 carrier landings, he commanded an EA-18 squadron aboard the USS Eisenhower that earned consecutive "Battle E" awards for combat efficiency during Operation Inherent Resolve. After his military career, Stickles transitioned to serve as Special Advisor for Defense to Vice Presidents Kamala Harris and Mike Pence, where he managed a comprehensive portfolio including veterans' issues, national security, defense innovation, and military readiness as Director on the National Security Council. A Naval Academy graduate with degrees in history, an MBA from UNC, and an MPA from Harvard, he later served as a consultant with Boston Consulting Group before joining O2X in 2023, bringing his unique combination of operational military experience, senior government advisory expertise, and business acumen to the human performance sector.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population.

"The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.

Part 3 features O2X Human Performance Program Manager w/ U.S. Army Reserves 81st Readiness Division Mark Christiani and Chief Warrant Officer 4 LaTonya Y. Pettigrew.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 LaTonya Y. Pettigrew serves as the Army Reserve Medical Command's Senior Warrant Officer Advisor to the Commanding General and G4 Senior Property Accounting/Logistics Management Technician. Since enlisting in 2000, she has built an impressive military career spanning active duty, reserves, and Active Guard Reserve positions, including roles with the 4th Psychological Group (Airborne), 863rd Engineer Battalion, 416th Engineer Command, 472nd Chemical Battalion, 518th Regional Support Group, and 300th Military Police Brigade before joining ARMEDCOM in 2021. CW4 Pettigrew holds a BS in Integrated Supply Chain Operations Management and a Master of Divinity in Christian Apologetics, complemented by extensive military education including the upcoming Warrant Officer Senior Service Education graduation. Her expertise in logistics, property management, and supply chain operations has earned her multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. Beyond her distinguished military service, she is married to James Pettigrew and is a mother of three sons.

Mark Christiani serves as an On-Site Human Performance Specialist focusing on Strength and Conditioning at the 81st Readiness Division, bringing over a decade of military and civilian expertise to the role. As an Army Veteran and former Brigade Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach for GAP Solutions, Inc., he managed performance programs for more than 3,000 soldiers while demonstrating exceptional leadership in resource management and regulatory compliance. His professional background spans operations management, executive support, and project coordination, with a proven track record of connecting organizational vision to tangible results through strategic empowerment. Mark holds a Master of Science in Sports Medicine from Georgia Southern University and maintains certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), complemented by ongoing studies in High-Performance Collaboration at Northwestern University. His career highlights include leading operational improvements, conducting research in exercise physiology and biomechanics, and implementing large-scale conditioning initiatives that optimize military personnel performance through his technical expertise in injury rehabilitation, coaching, and sports science.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population.

"The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.

Part 2 features O2X Human Performance Integration Manager & former Program Manager w/ DEA Training Academy Dan Williams and the former Unit Chief of the Tactical Training Unit at the DEA Academy Scott Seeley-Hacker.

Scott Seeley-Hacker is DEA veteran with nearly 26 years of service, most recently serving as Unit Chief of the Tactical Training Unit at the DEA Academy, where he oversaw all Basic Agent training in Tactical Operations, Defensive Tactics, and Human Performance while managing instructor certification programs and the tactical training budget. His distinguished career includes service as Country Attaché at the US Embassy in Rome, where he coordinated drug trafficking investigations across Southern Europe; Group Supervisor for a New England task force combating heroin and fentanyl distribution; Special Agent in Bangkok building international partnerships; operations in New York focusing on organized crime; a brief assignment as a Federal Air Marshal following 9/11; and initial service in Seattle targeting multi-jurisdictional drug cases.

Dan Williams is the Human Performance Integration Specialist Manager for O2X on the West Coast. Starting as an On-Site Human Performance Specialist specializing in Strength & Conditioning, Dan has cultivated extensive expertise in supporting tactical athletes. With over 12 years of experience in the human performance field, Daniel has a deep passion for working with tactical athletes, helping them achieve peak performance and resilience. Since 2015, Daniel has served as a Human Performance Specialist in the special operations community. His career began with the Air Force Special Operations Command, working with the 24th Special Operations Wing, Special Tactics Training Squadron (STTS). After two years with STTS, Daniel transitioned to Naval Special Warfare Group 1, where he spent over four years supporting Navy SEALs in optimizing their performance and readiness.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population.

"The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.

Part 1 features O2X Program Manager w/ D.C. Fire & EMS Joshua Davies & D.C. Fire’s Union President David Hoagland (IAFF Local 36).

Dave Hoagland is a 17 year veteran of the District of Columbia Fire Department and currently holds the rank of Captain. He was hired in 2007 and appointed to 7 Engine. After his probationary period he transferred to 30 Engine where he eventually became a Technician. As a Sergeant he was assigned to the Special Operations Division, beginning with the Hazardous Materials Unit and then Rescue Squad 3. He then served as a Lieutenant at 9 Engine for 3.5 years until his Promotion to Captain in the fall of 2022. Shortly after his promotion he was elected President of the DC Firefighters Association (IAFF Local 36). He assumed that role in January of 2023 and is currently in his second term as Local 36 President where advocates for the almost 2000 uniformed firefighters of the DCFD and manages an Executive Board of 6 like-minded individuals who are mission driven to protect the health, safety, and working conditions of DC Firefighters. Local 36 maintains a proactive mindset, focusing on strategies to prepare themselves not just for the fight right now, but the fight in the future.

Joshua Davies is an O2X On-Site Human Performance Specialist and Program Manager specializing in Strength and Conditioning with the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services (DCFEMS). With a wealth of experience in professional sports, Joshua brings his expertise to this role, enhancing the physical performance of first responders. His most recent position was as a Performance Coach for Future, where he worked for a year and a half, focusing on optimizing the athletic abilities of individuals. Prior to that, Joshua spent two significant tenures with the Scarlets, a prominent professional rugby club in Wales, where he served as a strength and conditioning coach. Joshua’s career has also taken him beyond the rugby field, most notably as the head of performance for the Chinese Olympic Committee. In this role, he was instrumental in crafting the training program for the Chinese wrestling team in preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, further showcasing his versatility in the sports performance domain. Additionally, Joshua spent three years in Australia, where he contributed significantly to a leading training facility, honing his skills and knowledge of sports performance in a different cultural and competitive context. Joshua holds a master’s degree in Strength and Conditioning, and his deep-rooted passion for sports and fitness is the driving force behind his work.

Building Homes for Heroes:
https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/

Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:
app.o2x.com

Let us know what you think:
Website - http://o2x.com
IG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f