Explore every episode of the podcast The Protectors® with Jason Piccolo

We sit down with crime thriller author Peter James to talk about why research is the secret ingredient that makes a story feel real and why smart readers can spot shortcuts fast. Peter shares how a single burglary led to lifelong police friendships, the creation of Roy Grace, and the kind of access that changes how you write every scene.

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Jason Allison is a writer and former detective who spent twenty years with the NYPD. His award-winning fiction has appeared in journals and anthologies. THE KILLING YARDS is his first novel. 

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 We catch up with New York Times bestselling author Alma Katsu on her new novel, Incarnate, a modern reimagining of The Picture of Dorian Gray that explores AI, identity, beauty, and the darker side of our digital lives. We also talk about her path from a 30+ year career in intelligence at the CIA and NSA to becoming an award-winning author, and how that experience shapes the stories she tells. 

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We catch up with Jack Stewart on the leap from Navy fighter pilot to high-output thriller author and what it takes to earn a seat in the Tom Clancy universe. 

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We catch up with indie author Eric Bishop on how he's built a growing thriller catalog — nearly 10 books deep — while working a full-time job and doing everything himself. We talk the real tipping point that got The Body Man written, why he chose the indie route over traditional publishing, the writing routine (or lack of one) that keeps him producing, and his new release, Downfall. Along the way we get into live music, bucket-list concerts, and the advice he'd give anyone thinking about writing their own book.

Link to DOWNFALL https://a.co/d/05zPn7JO

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We catch up with director William Kaufman on how he keeps his action films grounded in real tactics while still making audiences care about the people on screen. We talk New Orleans as a home base, Man Of War as his latest swing, and the teams and habits that make lower budget filmmaking hit like a bigger box office movie. 

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We sit down with our friend Garrett to talk through a real 24-year CIA career and why it looks nothing like the movie version people expect. We also unpack what happens after retirement and how intelligence tradecraft can translate into business intelligence, networking, and travel security. 

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We talk with Ward about moving from A-10 fighter pilot life to airline flying and then into a full-time career as a thriller author. We dig into what it takes to write authentic military fiction and how he handles the pressure of writing in the Tom Clancy Jack Ryan universe.

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We catch up with Doug Brunt on the leap from cybersecurity CEO to full-time author and the surprising pressures that come with building a second-act career. We also dig into his research-driven storytelling on Emmanuel Nobel and how power can erase people from history.

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The ticking clock. The pressure to keep sprinting like you're 30. The moment you realize your resume isn't your identity. Brad and I get into all of it — legacy as parents, discipline that shifts from external rules to internal standards, and what it actually means to build a creative career that depends on self-direction.

We also get honest about fitness after 50: staying consistent, adapting, and respecting recovery when old injuries stop bouncing back overnight.

Plus — what younger people are chasing that deserves a warning label, the hardest parts of raising kids when you've seen what the world can do, and a practical reset for anyone who feels stuck but not broken: protect time for something that's only yours, no audience required.

We wrap with Japan travel picks for teenagers and a deep tease of Brad's new Pike Logan thriller, Shadow Strike.

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We dig into Royal Diamonds, the real mechanics of self-publishing, and what it takes to build a writing career from scratch.

Jack's a retired Army colonel who treats writing like discipline — wide reading (Clancy, Griffin, Cussler, Carr, Taylor), professional editing, repeatable process. Then we open the hood on indie publishing as a business: LLCs, cover design, Amazon, marketing. Writing the book is one part. The rest is operations.

The story: Jake Steed, former Marine with an Oxford PhD, chasing a family piracy legend across the Caribbean. A British royal hunting a blood diamond. Enemies everywhere. Pure action-adventure — with an audiobook narrated by Tucker Smith on the way.

Building a second career or planning life after the uniform? This one's for you.

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After 536 conversations on Protectors, one thing keeps showing up: every guest has a moment where life demands a pivot. Not always a catastrophe, not always a dramatic turning point — but a real shift where career, identity, or purpose has to change direction.

We're still bringing incredible guests, still keeping it human, but we're done glossing over the most meaningful part of the story. We dig into how people recognize the moment, what they do when certainty disappears, and how they build the next chapter — whether that's a military-to-civilian shift, a leadership change, a mental health struggle, or a recovery journey. No politics. Just practical lessons and real-world resilience.

You'll also keep hearing from authors who've pivoted into writing — shorter, straight-to-the-point conversations covering who they are, the book, and how they got there.

Main guest conversations drop bi-weekly. We want your input on who to bring on and what to ask — follow @DrJasonPiccolo on IG and send suggestions. Then subscribe, share, and leave a review so these pivot stories reach the people who need them most.

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• The powerful impact of peer pressure in drinking culture, especially among first responders
• How alcohol addiction can become intertwined with personal identity and social connection
• The physiological effects of alcohol consumption including weight gain, poor sleep, and depression
• Nick's journey from losing his police career due to drinking to becoming a licensed mental health professional
• Frank's experience maintaining sobriety while still serving as an active NYPD officer
• The challenges of red flag laws and how seeking help can sometimes create professional consequences
• Different paths to recovery including AA, therapy, fitness, and personalized approaches
• The transformative benefits of sobriety including improved physical health, better relationships, and being present as fathers

If you're struggling with alcohol or substance use, remember you're not alone. Reach out to Reps for Responders or visit a local AA meeting. There are multiple pathways to recovery, and finding the right support system can change your life.

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Tom Young joins the Protectors podcast to discuss his ninth novel and third World War II standalone work, "The Mapmaker," which explores the dangerous operations of the French Resistance.

• The novel follows Charlotte Deneau, a French-American woman who uses her artistic skills to create maps of German positions for the Resistance
• Charlotte becomes hunted by the Gestapo for her exceptional mapping abilities
• The second protagonist is Philippe Girard, a French pilot flying dangerous moonlight missions for the RAF's special operations squadron
• Philippe must locate and extract Charlotte from occupied France while determining if intelligence is reliable or a Nazi trap
• Tom draws inspiration from real-life resistance figures like Virginia Hall and Violette Sabo
• Tom describes his writing process as "by the seat of his pants" rather than outlining extensively
• Writing daily with a goal of 500-1000 words helps maintain progress on long-term writing projects
• Tom's writing career began unexpectedly during an aircraft emergency layover in South Korea
• Research for historical fiction includes nonfiction books and WWII training films on YouTube
• Tom's next potential novel may explore the little-known story of Jewish teenagers who escaped Germany to Virginia before joining the US military
• Advice for aspiring writers: attend conferences, network with the writing community, and remember it's normal for first drafts to need improvement

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We often limit ourselves by age, thinking our best contributions are behind us, but life offers multiple opportunities for reinvention regardless of your current age or stage.

• Different versions of ourselves emerge throughout life's journey – from career phases to parenthood to retirement
• Finding your "why" creates the foundation for discipline when motivation inevitably fades
• Consistency matters more than intensity when building new habits or pursuing new paths
• The transition from high-adrenaline careers requires having a clear purpose ready for the next chapter
• Shifting from "I have to" to "I get to" transforms obligations into opportunities
• Physical fitness serves as both literal and metaphorical preparation for life's challenges
• Taking care of others provides powerful motivation beyond personal achievement
• Preparation before major life transitions prevents destructive mindsets and behaviors
• Success in one area often indicates how you'll approach challenges in completely different domains
• The discipline to show up, especially on days you don't want to, separates those who thrive from those who merely survive

Whatever season of life you're in, remember that your story isn't over – it's just entering a new chapter that requires the right mindset and consistent action.

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Bill Frost joins the podcast to discuss the crisis of toxic leadership in law enforcement and the importance of finding purpose after retirement.

• Morning walks as physical therapy and mental health practice after career-ending injury
• The increase in toxic leadership across law enforcement agencies in recent decades 
• How rushing promotions and political influence create poor leadership
• The problem of promoting people who aren't ready for leadership positions
• Why mentorship is critically important for developing future leaders
• The connection between good leadership and agency recruitment/retention
• How police leaders can stay true to their mission while dealing with political pressures
• The importance of having a mission after retirement to avoid destructive behaviors
• How legacy matters and why authentic leadership is remembered positively
• Frost's book "Leadership in Law Enforcement" and its focus on 10 key leadership traits

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Derek Jackson shares his journey from Air Force jet engine mechanic to OSI special agent, revealing the intense personal and professional challenges of federal law enforcement, and how these experiences inspired his crime thriller novel "Shadow One."

• Starting as an enlisted jet engine mechanic before getting recruited to OSI
• Discussing the reality of FLETC (Federal Law Enforcement Training Center) and the demanding training process
• Transitioning from mechanic to criminal investigator and the mental shift required
• Balancing investigative work with personal life and relationships
• Using music to inspire creative writing and developing characters
• Exploring how traumatic cases affect agents psychologically
• Turning real-life experiences into a crime thriller novel
• Finding the courage to follow your own path despite others' doubts

Find Derek Jackson's book "Shadow One" on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million, and Walmart online.

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Jason and Denny share candid reflections on veteran mental health, personal growth strategies, and the journey toward authentic living after military service.

• Veterans don't need to define themselves by brokenness or past trauma
• Mindfulness and meditation can be powerful alternatives to long-term medication for anxiety
• Creative outlets like photography and growing plants provide therapeutic benefits and new perspectives
• Physical activity, starting with simple daily walks, significantly improves mental wellbeing
• Building authentic relationships requires healing yourself first and understanding your attachment patterns
• Podcasting and media creation offer veterans ways to share stories and create community
• Focus on daily positive experiences can shift perspective and create resilience
• The "internal critic" can be acknowledged without letting it control your thoughts and actions
• Content that is authentic and serves a clear purpose will find its audience

If you're struggling, reach out. Whether through the Special Forces Foundation or Security Hall Podcast, there are resources to connect you with support specifically designed for veterans and first responders.

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We delve deep into the reality of battling depression, challenging the stereotypes and exploring practical approaches for navigating mental health struggles.

• Depression is an invisible force that can affect anyone regardless of external success or appearance
• First step to healing is recognizing and admitting you're struggling
• Treatment requires multiple approaches—medication, therapy, exercise, meditation
• Recovery isn't linear—setbacks happen and that's normal
• Building a "Strong Enough List" can help restore confidence during difficult times
• Finding activities that require full presence (like painting or horseback riding) helps manage depression
• Healing from trauma doesn't mean it disappears, but learning better ways to respond to triggers
• The difference between making decisions from your head versus your heart

If you're struggling with depression, make a commitment today to take one small step. Whether it's researching therapists, starting a daily walk, or reaching out to a friend - every positive action creates momentum toward healing.

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Marcus Torgerson joined the show to discuss his new book.  We also talk about faith and moving forward.  *We do discuss suicide.  

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Jason shares his personal journey toward better physical and mental health, emphasizing how taking the first step outside your door can lead to transformative change in your life.

• Starting small with just a walk around the block can build momentum toward bigger health goals
• Physical movement directly impacts mental clarity and problem-solving abilities
• Protectors (law enforcement, military, first responders) have a duty to maintain physical fitness for those they serve
• Consistency is more important than intensity when building healthy habits
• Alternative approaches like meditation and therapy are valuable companions to physical exercise
• The STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) helps candidates excel in job interviews
• Visualize the new version of yourself rather than trying to recapture past versions

Get up and move today - even if it's just for five minutes. Your body, mind, and those who depend on you will thank you for it.

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David Brown, former Navy SEAL and retired federal agent, joined the show to talk about his new book, AND GOLIATH:  THE LITTLEST NAVYS SEASL 

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We explore redefining wellness within the first responder community, focusing on the integral connection between mental and physical health. Eric shares personal insights and strategies for cultivating a well-rounded approach to wellness.

• The importance of defining wellness beyond just physical health 
• Strategies for engaging in peer support within first response teams 
• Insights on avoiding burnout through lifestyle choices 
• The significance of seeking help and breaking stigma around mental health 
• Rethinking recruitment practices to support new entrants into public safety 
• Strategies for personal health planning for long-term success 
• The necessity of creating a supportive culture around wellness 
• Discussion on insights from Eric's personal experiences in the field 
• The impact of good nutrition and exercise habits on overall well-being 

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This episode provides an exploration of the often overlooked mental health issues facing rural law enforcement officers. Stressors like isolation, limited resources, and the pressures of the job create significant mental health challenges. We share stories from the field and emphasize the importance of seeking help before reaching a breaking point. Our guest highlights the necessity of mental health training within law enforcement culture and discusses various accessible resources for mental wellness.

• Examining the realities of rural law enforcement
• Discussing mental health challenges unique to rural officers 
• Importance of seeking preventative mental health support 
• Finding the right mental health professional 
• The role of peer support programs 
• Importance of incorporating mental wellness into basic and ongoing officer training
• The journey towards better mental and emotional well-being 
• Strategic insights for managing job-related stress 
• Recognizing that mental health is an ongoing journey, not just a response to crisis

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In our latest episode, Mark Greaney reflects on the profound responsibilities of being a protector in a rapidly changing world. 
 
• Mark shares his experiences transitioning to fatherhood during challenging times 
• The impact of social media on personal and professional relationships 
• Emphasizing the need for family involvement in safety plans 
• Discussing practical firearm training and preparedness in crisis situations 
• The relevance of storytelling in shaping perspectives on protection 
• Insights on the upcoming release of Mark’s new book and genre shift

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This podcast episode explores the life of a submariner during the Cold War, sharing insights into the challenges of isolation, situational awareness, and the importance of teamwork aboard a submarine. The conversation unveils personal stories that highlight the unique mental and physical demands of serving in the Silent Service, creating a vivid depiction of life beneath the waves. 

• Life transitions from aspiring doctor to submariner 
• Experiencing isolation during extended underwater missions 
• Maintaining morale through meals and movies aboard 
• Navigational challenges in the Arctic 
• Importance of situational awareness and mental maps 
• Teamwork and protocols that ensure safety 
• Reflections on military experiences and writing 

Make sure to check out Henry's book "Submerged: Life on a Fast Attack Submarine in the Last Days of the Cold War" available on Amazon!

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This episode explores the transformative journey individuals have taken from being passive to proactive in their safety and self-defense, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our guest, Scott, shares his experiences from closing his gym to embracing the firearms world, reflecting on the cultural shift in civilian gun ownership and training needs.

• Discussing the impact of COVID-19 on personal livelihoods 
• Transitioning from fitness coaching to firearms training 
• The surge in civilian firearm ownership during civil unrest 
• Comparing training experiences of law enforcement and civilians 
• The importance of ongoing training for officers and civilians alike 
• Advocating for honest and informed consumer choices in the firearms market 
• Exploring community engagement through firearms training 
• The significance of a personalized approach to training and preparedness 
• Emphasizing the need to vet instructors and seek genuine knowledge 
• Building confidence through practice in varied environments

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In this episode, Doyle Glass shares his unique journey from Assistant District Attorney to sculptor and author, exploring the importance of preserving military history through story-telling. He reflects on the roles of prosecutors, the heroism of veterans, and the significance of remembering and honoring those who have served.
• Discusses the critical role of prosecutors and the legal system
• Emphasizes the importance of chain of custody in prosecution
• Shares personal reflections on the influence of the Alamo
• Highlights transition from sculpting to writing
• Explores challenges and approaches to interviewing veterans
• Discusses the camaraderie and faith of Marines in combat
• Urges listeners to remember and honor Vietnam veterans
• Advocates for recording veteran stories for future generations
• Highlights the lessons learned from military leadership and experiences

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*Sensitive Topics Covered (Suicide & Addiction)*

Brent talks candidly about the gritty realities behind the badges and uniforms, and the trials of balancing duty with mental health. He shares the importance of peer-based support systems and proactive mental health strategies in combating burnout and post-traumatic stress among first responders.

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Matt Dawson, founder of Dawson's Peak Foundation and author of "Strength in Surrender." A former investment banker turned extreme adventure athlete, Dawson has conquered some of the world's most formidable challenges – from summiting the highest peaks on every continent to skiing the South Pole and rowing across the Atlantic Ocean. 

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Brian Andrews, one half of the writing duo Andrews and Wilson, joins the show once again to discuss their latest contribution to the legendary Jack Ryan series, "Defense Protocol." 

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Joint Episode with Eric Bishop discussing our recent book launches! 

For those navigating the world of indie publishing, Eric Bishop joins us to share insights from his book "Babylon Will Rise" and the hustle behind self-publishing success. Our conversation highlights the creative storytelling and marketing strategies crucial for indie authors, along with the importance of feedback, community support, and transitioning from military to civilian life. From mentoring veterans to supporting fellow writers, we emphasize the power of collaboration and the impact of giving back, leaving listeners with valuable advice and inspiration.

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Frank Larkin, a prominent advocate for veterans and their families, joins us to unravel the pressing issues of brain trauma and veteran suicide. Through his personal journey, we explore the complex realities facing those who have served in conflict zones over the last two decades, highlighting the unseen wounds of post-traumatic stress disorder and moral injury. Frank candidly discusses his own heartbreaking loss, sharing the story of his son Ryan, a Navy SEAL, to underscore the stakes involved and the vital need for increased public awareness and comprehensive care.

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Jeremy opens up about the role of faith in his life, offering a personal reflection on how belief systems can fortify resilience in the harshest of conditions. From early familial influences to deeply personal convictions, Jeremy's spiritual journey underscores the importance of faith not only for survival in combat but as a foundation for leadership and care. The discussion broadens into how organizations like the Mighty Oaks Foundation provide veterans and first responders with hope and purpose, especially when grappling with trauma and identity loss.

Feeling disconnected or cynical isn't uncommon for veterans, but Jeremy highlights the transformative power of peer-to-peer support networks. By sharing authentic experiences and fostering genuine relationships, veterans can combat isolation and rebuild their sense of identity and confidence. Jeremy introduces the empowering philosophy of "March or Die," encouraging individuals to move forward despite life's adversities. Through compelling stories and actionable insights, this episode offers a roadmap for overcoming challenges and finding peace through faith and community.

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Unlock the secrets of transitioning from military service to thriving entrepreneurship with our guest, Conor Donahue, as he shares his  journey from Navy SEAL to the founder of Ace Virtual Shooting. Alongside his old friend A.M Adair (and Protectors co-host!), Conor recounts stories from their military days, filled with camaraderie and humor, like the quirky training exercises that saw them role-playing as a married couple. Discover how Conor's military experience has been a guiding force in his approach to building a startup, where leadership, teamwork, and adaptability are paramount.

Explore the cutting-edge world of virtual shooting simulators and how they are revolutionizing training for law enforcement and military personnel. We delve into the pivotal moments and challenges that Conor and his team faced while creating a product that spans 60 countries. 

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In this powerful rewind episode (original air date July 17, 2022), we sat down with Aaron Williamson, the elite fitness coach whose journey from Marine Corps veteran to Hollywood's go-to trainer has inspired thousands. Aaron's remarkable ability to transform lives through his innovative training approaches has earned him a client roster including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Josh Brolin, and Jamie Foxx.

The episode kicks off with Aaron sharing his deeply personal story of transformation. "Enlisting in the Marine Corps out of high school saved my life," he reflects. "I was a broken kid with no direction. It taught me strength, courage, and mental fortitude." This military foundation would later become the bedrock of his training philosophy and the acclaimed Intense 90 program.

Aaron helped me personally with a detailed training and meal plan that helped me shed almost 50 pounds!! 

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The Gun Experiment podcast hosts, Mike and Keith, join the show. From Mike's initial spark of interest in podcasting during the pandemic to Keith's hesitant yet rewarding leap into co-hosting. 

Gun ownership carries both passion and responsibility, and this episode brings that duality to the forefront. With candid discussions on the intricacies of gun laws and the societal perceptions that shape them, we tackle controversial topics head-on. This episode underscores the critical importance of training, safety, and education in navigating today's complex firearm landscape.

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In this episode of The Protectors® Podcast, David Blalock shares his experience with boots-on-the-ground experience discussing Hurricane Helene:

1.     Importance of basic survival skills, especially land navigation without technology

2.     Lessons from Western North Carolina and the value of educators like Kevin Estela

3.     Community collaboration, featuring contributions from Tulsi Gabbard and her sister Vrindavan

4.     Support for local law enforcement and hurricane relief in areas like Scotland County 

5.     Challenges faced by smaller law enforcement agencies

6.     Potential for mobilizing federal employees in disaster relief

7.     The impact of grassroots efforts and community-driven responses in crises

8.     Celebrating protectors like the TOA Group who serve communities nationwide

The episode emphasizes the power of preparedness, community action, and the need for more efficient disaster response systems.

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Daryl Hornbeck, a retired U.S. Army EOD 1SG, reveals the profound impact motorsport can have on veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Daryl, a fellow veteran and leader of the After Action Racing Team, shares his evolving philosophy on training drivers. The nonprofit transformation of After Action Racing into a 501c19 organization has paved the way for bigger support networks, emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. It's more than just racing; it's about building a support system that lifts veterans, fostering a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

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HOSTS:  Gene O'Neill (filling in as a special host of The Protectors® Podcast) and Eric Bishop host of A Tale Of Two Scribes.

On this episode of A Tale Of Two Scribes, we welcome Jack Carr to the program. In 2018 Jack Carr burst onto the writing scene with his debut novel, The Terminal List. Optioned by Christ Pratt and turned into a successful series on Amazon Prime, Jack has released 7 novels featuring his protagonist, James Reece. And now, he has delved into the world of non-fiction with his latest, Targeted Beirut. To learn more about Jack, please visit: https://www.officialjackcarr.com

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The memory of September 11, 2001 must never fade. We owe it to future generations to preserve the truth of that day - unfiltered and uncensored. They need to know about the brave protectors who, without hesitation, ran towards danger. These heroes - firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens - embodied the very best of humanity; true protectors.

But our duty to remember goes beyond that fateful day. Even now, over two decades later, many first responders continue to fight a silent, insidious battle against cancers and other illnesses stemming from their service. Their sacrifice didn't end when the dust settled; for many, it was just beginning.

About Niels: Niels Jorgensen, a retired FDNY Lieutenant from Ladder Company 80, was inspired by his firefighter father to join the department. On 9/11, though off-duty, he responded to the World Trade Center attacks, assisting in rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero for four days.

Years later, Jorgensen developed health issues, eventually being diagnosed with a rare leukemia likely caused by exposure to toxic air at Ground Zero.

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DJ Williams, a thriller writer, shares his journey from a Hong Kong childhood to a successful writing career, highlighting how global experiences and work in unscripted television shaped his unique storytelling style. He discusses his transition from being a fan of authors like John Grisham to creating his own narratives, and offers insights into the publishing industry, including trends in book formats and release schedules. Williams reveals strategies for audience engagement, the importance of industry connections for film adaptations, and creative approaches to content creation, such as developing story universe websites and incorporating unexpected elements like auto auctions into his narratives.

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Ever wondered why seeking mental health support is often stigmatized in military communities? Join us as Marine Corps veteran Tim Meleski and mental health expert Trisha Houghton tackle these pressing issues head-on. Tim bravely recounts his struggles with PTSD and anger management, sharing the challenges he faced seeking help without jeopardizing his career. Trisha offers valuable insights into her programs that provide critical support to veterans, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and proactive strategies to combat stigma.

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Ever wondered how a childhood love for military history can shape a remarkable career in naval intelligence? Join us as we sit down with MP Woodward to trace his journey from naval intelligence to authoring the newest Tom Clancy novel. 

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What happens when you hang up the badge and try to start anew? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Sean Curtis, who shares his deeply personal journey of transitioning from a law enforcement career. We tackle the financial and emotional challenges officers face when they leave the force, including the struggle to redefine one's identity. Sean also sheds light on the generational shifts in job loyalty and how this impacts law enforcement recruitment. We get candid about the significant sacrifices made for often inadequate compensation, and the need for better resources and support for those who protect our communities.

Ever wondered how to balance a creative passion with financial stability, especially in writing? Sean and I dig into the importance of consistent practice for writers and the need for creative outlets for mental well-being. We discuss platforms like Substack that provide modern avenues for sharing work without restrictions and reflect on the journey from traditional media to influential digital publications like Pew Pew Tactical. 

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What drives someone to join the CIA after 9/11, and how does their sense of duty shape their journey? Tune in as we welcome back author Taylor Moore to the Protectors Podcast, with co-host Gene O'Neill. We uncover the fascinating motivations and impactful experiences behind joining such an agency, sharing emotional reflections and highlighting the profound camaraderie between CIA operatives and military personnel. Taylor provides a glimpse into his personal story, revealing how his unfulfilled desire to serve in the military found a new path post-9/11 with the CIA, bringing a deep sense of purpose and duty to his role.

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Discover the evolution of Marine Corps special operations with our special guest, John Dailey, a seasoned Force Recon and MARSOC Marine. John narrates his journey through the ranks, culminating in the transformative period post-9/11. His firsthand accounts of deployments, particularly in Afghanistan, shed light on the dramatic shift in military tactics and the increasing value of MARSOC in high-stakes direct action operations. John's upcoming book, "Tough Rugged Bastards," serves as a testament to the resilience needed in these elite roles.

With John, we unravel the intense, multifaceted training of special operations units. He shares how rigorous preparation, mental rehearsals, and learning to handle high-stress physiological responses are crucial for success on the battlefield. 

Cohost:  Author Eric Bishop.  

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Through a candid discussion, Josh navigates the often-overlooked concept of being an exceptional team player and finding gratification in roles that don't always bask in the limelight. Together, we dissect the behavior of both effective and ineffective leaders, challenging conventional wisdom and showcasing the importance of leaders who genuinely support and collaborate with their teams.

Josh's book, BURN OUT, is out August 13th! 

We also delve into effective firearms training, combat Tupperware vs Staccato. 

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