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Christine Mantyla, Paralegal, Realtor, and Co-founder of a Veterans' Series Virtual Forum, never donned a naval uniform. Yet, her passion resonates with the same devotion as those who have served. 

We delve into the crucible of authenticity, confront addiction, and grapple with inherited trauma, all the while recognizing the silent battles against invisible illnesses like Fibromyalgia. 

By sharing these vulnerabilities, Christine and I aim to light a beacon for those navigating tumultuous life challenges, affirming the transformative power of service and the strength we gain when we work together.

Guest Links:

• Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-mantyla-ab12bb66/
• Watch: https://youtu.be/lmbIc5Bl9iw?si=oGra-FkfdLF4G7Co

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
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• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Have you ever witnessed the rise, fall, and rebirth of a titan? Join us as we delve into the extraordinary life of Dave Des Rochers, a former NFL offensive lineman turned entrepreneur, as he recounts a life teeming with victories and defeats, both on the gridiron and beyond.

Dave's career saga is nothing less than a rollercoaster, encompassing the thrill of professional football, a foray into acting, and the tumult of financial upheaval. However, his remarkable recovery—rooted in faith and a profound sense of purpose—will capture your heart and soul.

Our conversation unwraps Dave's deeply personal narrative, revealing how hitting rock bottom became the cornerstone of an inspiring journey back to hope and a passion for helping military veterans and more!

Guest Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-des-rochers-path2/
• The 1st&Goal Project: https://the1standgoalproject.com/

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Stress isn't merely a term we throw around; it's a daily adversary many of us grapple with. And for women, there's an additional challenge: peri-menopause. Yes, peri-menopause! And it can begin in some women in their 30s.

In this episode, we delve into how peri-menopause, often shrouded in secrecy, affected our guest, Amita Sharma, Co-founder of NourishDoc , leaving her bewildered and fearful.

We aim to contribute to breaking the silence surrounding women's health issues like peri-menopause, particularly for those juggling the triple demands of career, family, and personal well-being.

Links:
Watch: https://youtu.be/2XTbC_DCRmk?si=Ci0hNk8UN_lj9pPt
Visit: https://www.nourishdoc.com/
Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amita-sharma-nourishdoc/

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Ever feel like the odd one out in a family of tradition and expectation? 

A'Noelle Jackson, the award-winning filmmaker, actress, and entrepreneur, recently shared her remarkable tale of growing from the artistic "black sheep" in a military family to a beacon of creativity in Hollywood. 

Her infectious humor and heartwarming stories about her father's bewilderment over her career choice bring laughter and encouragement to anyone wrestling with the pressure of family legacies. 

A'Noelle's journey is a testament to the power of following your heart and breaking the mold, making this episode an inspiration for all seeking to claim their individuality.

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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As we commemorate International Women's Day 2024, Leyna Marie Topete embodies the essence of faith, a positive mindset, and resilience.

Her journey is deeply rooted in her mother's courageous battle with breast cancer. Leyna's mother, a retired United States Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant, sadly passed away on September 11, 2019.

Leyna vividly illustrates her triumphs against all odds. She chose this podcast as the platform to publicly disclose her recent diagnosis of stage 1 breast cancer, discussing the emotional impact and how she is using it to uplift other women.

This dynamic conversation peels back the layers of womanhood, revealing the intricate balance of hard work, faith, and determination, transforming obstacles into stepping stones.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wvmy1Ou66dI

Guest Links:
IG - https://www.instagram.com/leynatopete/?hl=en
Impromptu - https://www.impromptu.life/
HERtoo - https://hertoobreastcancer.org/

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
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• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Imagine sitting down with a man whose life story is as impactful as the punches his golden glove boxer father once threw. That's what we're bringing to the table today, with Tim Dunn, a Marine Corps veteran and North Carolina Attorney General candidate.

In an armor-less conversation, Tim peels back the layers of his life, from the football fields of his youth to the legal battles he fights for juvenile defendants. Get ready to be moved by the humor and heartache, the dedication and determination, and the sheer resilience that has defined Tim's journey and fueled his passion for advocating for the vulnerable in our society.

🌟Please share this episode with your networks and consider supporting Tim Dunn for the next North Carolina Attorney General in 2024.

Guest Link:
Tim Dunn for NC Attorney General - https://dunnfornc.com/


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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
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• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
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From the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps to the introspective pathways of civilian life, retired Sergeant Major Cortez Brown graces our show with tales of his remarkable transition. 

His story isn't just one of change, but a testament to the power of self-reflection to learn and improve, when transitioning out of the military. Cortez shares his journey, and we're reminded that leaving the uniform behind doesn't mean abandoning the brotherhood forged in service. 

Tune in for a candid look at the struggles, triumphs, and profound personal growth unfolding when a life of orders becomes a self-guided reflection.

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Have you ever encountered a life story so compelling it unfolds like an epic novel, where daunting hurdles are masterfully transformed into pathways of triumph?

Meet Dr. Jennifer James, the visionary Principal of Innovation Early College High School in Greenville, North Carolina, and the distinguished 2023 Pitt County Schools Principal of the Year.

Today, Dr. James candidly shares her journey, illuminating the dark shadows cast by her parent's divorce and the stark challenge of growing up without emotional support, leading up to the pivotal moment that changed everything!

In this 'unarmored' conversation, she reveals how overcoming these personal trials shaped her and fueled her innovative leadership and compassionate approach to education. Dr. James' story is a powerful reminder that the foundation of a brighter future for the next generation is often laid by the vision and care of just one individual.

As you listen, consider: Who has been that 'one person who cares' in your life, and how have you transformed adversity into your pathway of triumph?

Guest Links:
Watch on YouTube - https://youtu.be/_7s1tRZ0qfI
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-james-edd-68691630/
2023 Pitt County Schools Principal of the Year Article - https://www.stillservinginc.com/jenniferjames

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• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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From military service to impactful community leadership, Michael Harris, International President of Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity Inc., takes us through his inspiring transition. Discover how he navigated and overcame numerous promotion stressors and learn about the fraternity's steadfast commitment to supporting veterans.

This episode isn't just about listening to a success story; it's about delving into Michael's thought process and understanding how he maximized unexpected opportunities, standing firm in his decisions to drive positive change. Join us to gain insights that could shape your path to leadership and personal growth.

Guest Links:
Mu Beta Phi Military Faternity Inc. - http://www.mbphikings2017.org/

Support the show

• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]

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Chaplain Michael Washington's story counters the notion that chaplains are exempt from life's trials, emphasizing the importance of their honesty in facing challenges.

This episode unveils his journey through military service, battling COVID-19, and lymphoma, showcasing the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in a chaplain's role.

Our conversation highlights how honesty in sharing personal struggles, unloading emotional burdens, and seeking mentorship can be transformative within the military and universally. These insights extend to anyone seeking resilience and gratitude in adversity.

Concluding the episode, we reflect on the impact of simple daily tasks and connections, and the wisdom from mentors like Chaplain Washington, underscoring the strength of living an open, honest, and unarmored life.

Guest Links:
Hargrave Military Academy - https://hargrave.edu/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-washington-18a84021a/

Support the show

• Watch: Unarmored Talk Playlist
• Mario's Socials: Parade Deck
• Support My Nonprofit: Still Serving, Inc.
• Email: [email protected]