Top Game Podcast

Discover the intricate dance of leadership and camaraderie within the Marine Corps as we sit down with Top Le, the senior enlisted leader from Company H, MCSB. Listen to tales of navigating various assignments, including SIOC instructor duty and recruiting, and balancing the dual responsibilities of independent mission execution and leading a team of 48 Marines. Our guest shares how previous professional relationships, like the one with his commanding officer, ease transitions and foster growth, both personally and within the organization. This episode promises to reveal the nuances of leadership and the impact of mentorship on shaping future Marine Corps leaders.

As we journey through the complex layers of balancing foundational Marine Corps skills with specialized intelligence roles, you'll learn how communication emerges as a critical tool. Our conversation tackles the tension between maintaining traditional customs and embracing necessary change, illustrated by the resistance to altering a cherished military tradition. Through personal anecdotes, our guest provides insight into the evolving roles of senior enlisted leaders and the importance of preserving the integrity of military service while fostering young talent in a modernizing force.

Finally, we explore the adaptability of the Marine Corps in the information age. From heartwarming stories of heroism that extend beyond the battlefield to exciting new initiatives like the "Fighting Smart" docu-series, this episode underscores the timeless values of courage, duty, and readiness. Uncover the significance of storytelling and communication in the development of future leaders and gain an understanding of how strategic deployments are shaping the Corps in the modern era. Join us for an episode that celebrates the essence of Marine Corps values and leadership.

Fortitudine,

Sammy Castro

In episode 33 of Top Game, I had the distinct honor of sitting down with my brother in arms, Master Gunnery Sergeant Jeff Rooke. Over the past 24 years, Jeff and I have shared a bond forged through the challenges and triumphs of our Marine Corps careers, as well as our shared roots as fellow Texans. During his tenure as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader at the Presidio of Monterey, Jeff left an indelible mark on countless Marines, shaping their careers and lives in profound ways. Last year, I had the privilege of speaking at the Marine Corps Birthday Ball for his unit, a testament to the deep respect and camaraderie we share.

In our conversation, we delve into the evolution we've witnessed during our time in uniform, the obstacles we've overcome, and the milestones we've reached. Jeff's passion for leadership development shines through as we discuss the vital role of mentorship and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement. Whether you're a seasoned Marine or someone interested in the principles of leadership, this episode offers valuable insights into the journey of two Marines committed to excellence.

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In this insightful episode of Top Game, host Sammy Castro sits down with Chief Warrant Officer Trebor Whitehead to explore the multifaceted world of military leadership and the evolving landscape of warfare technology. Join us as we delve into personal growth, mentorship, and the importance of staying ahead in the dynamic field of military operations.

1. Introduction to Chief Warrant Officer Trebor Whitehead

   • Opening thoughts and the significance of today’s discussion.

2. Early Career and Personal Growth

   • Reflections on the initial stages of military careers and the importance of foundational experiences.

3. Leadership and Mentorship

   • Discussion on the roles and responsibilities of leadership within the military.
   • The impact of mentorship on career development.

4. The Role of Podcasting in Sharing Military Experiences

   • Insights into how the medium of podcasting serves as a tool for knowledge sharing and mentorship within the Marine community.

5. Challenges and Representation of Women in the Marines

   • A candid look at the experiences and challenges faced by female Marines.

6. Technological Evolution in Modern Warfare

   • In-depth conversation on the role and impact of technology in modern military operations.

7. Balancing Military and Family Life

   • Insights into the challenges of managing a military career alongside family responsibilities.

8. Future Outlook and Leadership in the Marine Corps

   • Discussions on the future directions of the Marine Corps and the preparation of the next generation of military leaders.

9. Closing Thoughts and Reflections

   • Final reflections on the conversation and the ongoing journey of learning and leadership in the military.

• “The strength of the tribe is that we strengthen our tribe.” – Sammy Castro
• "It's not really about what we do, it's about who we are." – Trebor Whitehead
• "You're always learning, always experiencing. It’s about being open to change and embracing the new challenges." – Trebor Whitehead

Nate & I sat down at my basement bar in Virginia to connect. We never had the opportunity to serve together in the same unit, so we took advantage of a conference to set time aside to record this interview. Initially, he was reluctant because he thought he had nothing to offer the audience. I knew better. His views on agency, mindset, and leaving it all out on the field are crucial takeaways.

Our conversation covers topics spanning family readiness, the natural tension between the information & intelligence warfighting functions, and the need to tailor the application of leadership fundamentals to distinct audiences. We nerd out about science fiction, whisky, artificial intelligence & of course, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu!

As I roll out exclusive content, I've determined Patreon as the easiest way to engage with the audience. Any tier will suffice, and you can still reach me on Reddit, Facebook, LinkedIn, Discord, or at [email protected].

The website needs a touch-up, but I did add some merchandise there in the form of T-shirts & hoodies. You can find it under the Game Theory link at the top of the page.

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Episode 30 has been a long time coming. Top Bailey & I first "met" on Reddit when he reached out to say thanks for creating a forum for us to discuss to us. Since we've been in contact, he's been a great sounding board to help provide insight into what our community needs to hear: "Intimate conversations with Marines exploring their journeys, perspectives & experiences." Nate & I discuss courage, being a perpetual novice, as well as the link between humility & empathy. Thanks for tuning in.

Marshall Troy is a close personal friend and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt. He is a stalwart ambassador for jiu jitsu as therapy, particularly for veterans battling ptsd and struggling to cope with suicide ideation.

Marshall & I met back in August 2019 at the in Maine at the Origin Immersion Camp.

Hailing from the great state of Oklahoma, we shared an Uber from Portland to Camp Laurel and established an immediate connection. 

In August of 2021, we were able to meet up again In Maine for our second Immersion Camp. We grew our circle of friends, most notably in the Towhees Cabin, and shared quite a bit of time together on and off the mats.

While there, we carved out some time to sit down, press record and reflect on some of our experiences and observations since the last time we were together two years ago. 

In the interview, we cover our common close ties with LGBT family members, how that has impacted our dealings with those around us and the influence we can make on those coping with a lack of acceptance, ostracism and targeted hate.  We also dive into how we have learned to navigate the sometimes turbulent discourse taking place on social media platforms.

Episode 28 brings us to SSgt Antuan Martin. We first met in Hawaii when I was visiting as an evaluator for a 3d Radio Bn field exercise in 2017. He was a Sgt at the time, and an adage I learned from the dog men I grew up around fit perfectly. "There were some big paws on that pup." Since that initial encounter, we've stayed in contact. It was immediately apparent during subsequent conversations that he had been heavily influenced by quite a few of my peers who I have been close with over the years.

We cover a spectrum of topics spanning strength training, jiu-jitsu, learning styles, audio production, and even video games in our conversation. Themes that emerged in the discussion include our distinct takes on the individual Marine's value to the institution and the dynamic nature of camaraderie through the Corps.

Much like many of the young professionals who fill out our middle ranks, SSgt Martin demonstrates a thirst for a greater challenge that influenced his decision to go deeper than he would have otherwise. His perspective on the value of initiative is a tacit reminder of the importance for senior leaders to cultivate an environment whereby their subordinates are permitted to "dare greatly" without fear.

SSgt Martin provides an intimate look into his childhood being raised by a single mother. He goes on to illustrate how key SNCOs, ostensibly serving as paternal surrogates, directly invested time and energy towards his personal and professional growth. I genuinely enjoyed this interview with such an intelligent and insightful young leader. I look forward to following his career, as I am absolutely certain of his status as an emerging titan. As I write this, I am reminded of another axiom from my hometown: "Game recognizes game."

Following a hectic PCS move from Okinawa to the Pentagon, we're finally back up and running with plenty of high value targets in the vicinity to link up with. Thanks for all your support. Thanks for your patience. Fortitudine.

JP 3-85 JEMSO

Gen Krulak's 1997 Speech on the Marine Corps' Future

Top Game Podcast Patreon

Episode 26 is one of the first episodes I ever recorded during a trip to San Angelo for an OCCFLD working group. The delay was primarily technical and partially content. I deliberated quite a bit about what, if anything, I needed to pull from the interview. What you hear in this conversation is all Tom, unfiltered…mostly! Tom promoted me to Sgt back in 2002 before I even hit the Fleet. During our interview, we discuss quite a range of topics that cover the influence of the Senior Enlisted on command climate, the impact of technology on operations, the sometimes opposing perspectives between the strategic, operational & tactical, the importance of staying in touch with our fellow Marines, and the unique bond we as Marines enjoy in spite of the demanding and competitive environment we maintain.

In Episode 25, I finally sit down with the outgoing Operations Chief of III MEF Information Group, MGySgt Rich Deuto. As he heads back to familiar territory as the incoming Senior Enlisted Leader for Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, we investigate his passion for history, the impact of growing up as a Marine brat, as well as the impact that has had on his won family as his son later joined the Marine Corps.

His arrival on Okinawa two years ago was my opportunity to have a 2691 MGuns on island with me that I could engage with regularly for much the same kind of professional discussions you hear on this podcast. I held off as long as I could to record this episode because I wanted to have as much observation time before the interview. Personally, the interviews which focus on a guest with whom I have a strong personal relationship are the most intimate. I’m sure you’ll agree the exchange was value added to the show.