In this compelling episode of The World's Finest Strike Podcast, host Patrick Riley sits down with author and spiritual counselor Dr. Stephen Edwards for a deeply vulnerable and transformative conversation. Dr. Edwards shares his profound personal journey, starting from a traumatic childhood and a harrowing experience in a mental asylum at age 16, to navigating four marriages and surviving a deeply toxic relationship.

Dr. Edwards unpacks the core philosophy behind his latest book, emphasizing that life's greatest challenges don't happen to us—they happen for us. He explores how toxic relationships serve as mirrors, reflecting the unconscious patterns we formed in childhood and offering us the opportunity to heal and grow.

Throughout the episode, Patrick and Dr. Edwards discuss:

•The hidden power of vulnerability and why hiding our shame holds us back from our true potential.

•How to recognize and break destructive relationship patterns.

•The difference between temporary spiritual awakenings and the continuous work of self-awareness.

•The concept of the "reverse society" and the vital importance of moving out of our minds and back into our hearts.

•Navigating the complex reality of loving someone with borderline personality disorder.

Whether you've experienced a toxic relationship, are seeking to understand your own life patterns, or simply want to learn how to live more authentically from the heart, this episode offers invaluable insights and tools for your journey.

Guest Links:

•Book: The Venus Flytrap (Available on Amazon and at VFT23.com)

•Free Guide: Learn the 7 signs of a toxic relationship at VFT23.com

Tune in to discover how to embrace your past, heal your wounds, and step into your full power.

The First 3 Chapters

https://bit.ly/4mYUixp

Coaching and Counseling

https://vft23.com/coaching-and-counselling/?utm_source=Patrick+Riley&utm_medium=World%27s+Finest+Strike+Podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast+Interview+-+Patrick+Riley

In this episode, host Patrick Riley sits down with Anya Eydman, founder of Aria Energy and author of the upcoming book Trust Infrastructure. They dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of AI, energy consumption, and the critical need for "trust infrastructure" as technology outpaces our ability to process it.

Anya shares her unique perspective on the intersection of data centers, renewable energy, and human impact, emphasizing the importance of energy affordability and the social consequences of technological expansion. Beyond the infrastructure, Anya reveals her personal journey of rediscovering her voice as a writer and "cyber poet," detailing how she uses AI tools like voice recording and LLMs to unlock creativity, overcome self-doubt, and enhance her professional communication.

Whether you're interested in the future of energy grids, the ethical dilemmas of outsourced intelligence, or practical tips for using AI as a creative partner, this conversation offers a profound look at how we can maintain our humanity and build trust in an AI-dominated world.

Key Topics Covered:

•The reality of AI's energy consumption and the rise of data centers.

•The concept of "Trust Infrastructure" and the last-mile delivery of innovation.

•Energy sovereignty, climate justice, and the cost of technological advancement.

•Anya's journey from a corporate career to becoming a "cyber poet."

•Practical ways to use voice AI (like WhisperFlow and Tactic) and LLMs for writing, journaling, and professional growth.

•Navigating the ethical dilemmas of AI and the fear of human irrelevance.

•Anya's upcoming book, Trust Infrastructure (expected September 16th!).

About the Guest:

Anya Eydman is the founder of Aria Energy, focusing on trust building and the commercialization of innovation in the renewable energy space. She is an advocate for energy justice, a writer, a cyber poet, and the author of the forthcoming book Trust Infrastructure.

Listen to discover how to stay grounded, find your voice, and use AI to amplify your unique human experience.

Discussion with Esha Clements on developing her children's book, "When an Elephant Brings You a Mango," while being an officer in the US Marine Corps.

www.underwaybooks.com

www.eshaaclements.com

Testing of the Adobe Podcast Studio. Let's see how it looks after I edited the video through the transcript update.  

Launching of the second season of the World's Finest Strike Podcast. Looking for new guests to share their stories and experiences. Also, what to share the upcoming projects that include "Targeting Underway", "My Fasting Journey", and the "Greyjackets' Manual".

Episode 7: 

Join host Patrick Riley as he sits down with Jim Espinoza, Commander of VFW Post 4266 in Parker, Colorado a,nd recent recipient of the Douglas County Community Foundation Military/Veteran Hero Award for 2025. In this compelling episode, Jim shares his remarkable military journey from following in his father's footsteps, a Korean War veteran who served at the Chosin Reservoir, to his own service as a Marine infantryman during the Gulf War era.

Listen as Jim recounts his Pacific deployments (Westpac) aboard the USS Ogden, crossing the equator to become a shellback, and memorable liberty calls in Australia, Philippines, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The conversation takes a serious turn as Jim describes being pulled from Hong Kong when Iraq invaded Kuwait, leading to his deployment during both Desert Shield and Desert Storm operations in the Persian Gulf.

Jim opens up about the long-term health impacts of Gulf War service, including toxic air exposure and the development of asthma decades later, while discussing the importance of the PACT Act in supporting veterans. The episode also explores Jim's transformation from struggling with alcohol after service to finding purpose through his wife, family, and ultimately his leadership role in the VFW, where he advocates for veterans and builds community connections.

This episode highlights the bonds between sailors and Marines, the realities of shipboard life in the pre-internet era, and the ongoing mission to support veterans through organizations like the VFW. Jim's story demonstrates how military service shapes character and how veterans can continue serving their communities long after hanging up their uniforms.

Get your copy of "Deception Underway" now available in paperback at underwaybooks.com

Don't forget to subscribe to "World's Trying to Find a Strike" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with fellow veterans, military families, and anyone interested in real sea stories and veteran experiences. Your support helps us continue bringing these important stories to light.

Join host Patrick Riley as he sits down with longtime friend Marc Marx, a former Navy signalman who transformed from a small-town Kansas kid with a graduating class of just 32 people into a world-traveling sailor who has visited an incredible 43 countries and 48 states.

In this captivating episode, Marc shares his extraordinary Navy journey spanning 10 years (1987-1997) across five different ships, including the USS Oldendorf, USS Hoel, USS Elliott, and USS Hewitt. From his early days learning Morse code and semaphore as a signalman to navigating diplomatic incidents in Diego Garcia and exploring the vibrant nightlife of Roppongi in Tokyo, Marc's stories showcase the transformative power of military service.

Discover how Marc's wanderlust continued long after his Navy career, including an epic 11-week backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia where he stayed with a Vietnamese family in their village, recent trips to the Philippines for whale shark swimming and canyoneering, and even participating in Brazil's Carnival as a grand champion with the Vadoro Samba Club in 2020.

Marc's tales span from the mundane to the magnificent - from getting into bar brawls with the British in Diego Garcia to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, from skiing in Japan to cooking barbecue for tailgate companies across Texas. His post-Navy career in catering and concessions has kept him traveling while maintaining the friendships and adventurous spirit forged during his decade at sea.

Support the Show:

• Subscribe & Like our YouTube channel for video episodes
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• Rate us on Apple Podcasts to help others discover veteran stories

Get the Book: Order "Deception Underway" by Patrick Riley at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or UnderwayBooks.com. The paperback edition will be released on September 2nd!

Whether you're a veteran, active duty, or simply love great adventure stories, this episode captures the essence of what it means to see the world through Navy eyes and never stop exploring.

Join host Patrick Riley as he welcomes fellow VFW member Stuart "Dragon" Draughon to share incredible stories from his submarine service in the U.S. Navy. In this gripping episode, Dragon takes us deep beneath the waves to experience life aboard a nuclear submarine during some of the most dramatic moments of his five deployments.

Hear the heart-pounding account of launching Tomahawk missiles from the Mediterranean during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where the compression from underwater missile tubes made ears pop and the entire submarine shudder. Dragon shares what it was really like to be part of the "Silent Service" during wartime operations, from a sailor's perspective who was still learning the ropes.

But the military action is just the beginning. Dragon recounts one of the most harrowing sea stories you'll ever hear, when their submarine traveling at 50+ knots underwater struck and split a whale in half, causing an 80-degree roll that launched him from his top rack and cracked his ribs. Listen as he describes the dangerous underwater welding operation to free massive whale bones from the propellers, complete with shark watch and no decompression chamber aboard.

From the Arctic ice where footsteps could be heard across the silent frozen landscape, to the comedy of errors that left the crew eating nothing but noodles for three months straight, Dragon's tales capture both the extreme danger and unexpected humor of submarine life. You'll also hear about charity missions in Tunisia, ports of call around the world, and the unique challenges of living underwater for nine months at a time.

Whether you're a military history buff, submarine enthusiast, or just love incredible true stories, this episode delivers unforgettable tales from the depths. Hey, I need to continue to promote the book "Deception Underway" and share updates about the VFW Post 4266 in Parker, Colorado.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Visit UnderwayBooks.com for more military stories and Patrick's published works.

Join host Patrick Riley as he sits down with longtime friend and USS Hewitt shipmate Rob Gage for an in-depth conversation about naval life in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Rob shares his journey from joining the Navy in 1987 as a sonar technician to serving on two ships - the USS England (CG-22) and USS Hewitt (DD-966) - before transitioning to shore duty as base security in Japan.

In this episode, Rob recounts his experiences from boot camp in San Diego to his adventures across the Pacific, including memorable port visits to the Philippines, Thailand, Egypt, and extensive time stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. He discusses the challenges of making rank as a "non-push button" sailor, the camaraderie of shipboard life, and the unique experiences of being base police in Japan during the early 1990s.

Rob also reflects on liberty adventures in places like Subic Bay, Roppongi, and climbing Mount Fuji, while sharing insights into the cultural differences and memorable moments that shaped his nearly nine-year naval career. The conversation touches on his post-Navy life with the postal service, his passion for competitive shooting, and how military service prepared him for civilian success.

Whether you're a Navy veteran, military history enthusiast, or simply enjoy hearing authentic stories of service and adventure, this episode offers a genuine glimpse into Pacific Fleet operations during a pivotal time in naval history.

Part of the World's Finest Strike Podcast series, featuring stories from USS Hewitt veterans and their naval experiences.

In this episode of the World’s Finest Strike Podcast, host Patrick Riley reconnects with longtime shipmate Dave Knapp from the USS Towers (DDG-9). Together, they revisit life underway in the late '80s and early '90s—from crossing the Pacific and pulling into exotic ports, to the unforgettable liberty adventures in Hong Kong, Thailand, and Italy. Dave recounts his journey from boot camp to the USS Seattle and reflects on what it meant to serve as an Electronic Warfare Technician during one of the Navy’s most operationally intense periods.

This candid conversation covers everything from outrunning Liberty boats in Pattaya, laughing uncontrollably on Japanese trains, to the quirks of East vs. West Coast duty. Packed with humor, history, and heartfelt memories, this episode is a reminder of the bond that never fades between shipmates.

Ship served: USS Towers (DDG-9), USS Seattle (AOE-3)
Era: 1988–1994
Keywords: Navy Liberty, Sea Stories, Yokosuka, Hong Kong, EW Techs, USS Towers, Pattaya, 7th Fleet