In the opening segment of the episode, Bill sets the stage by discussing the vital role of Rangers serving beyond the 75th Ranger Regiment. He emphasizes how these Rangers have a profound impact not only within their units but also across the entire military landscape.

As the conversation progresses, we delve into the concept of accountability among Rangers. Specifically, we explore how Rangers hold themselves and their peers accountable, particularly during the rigorous RASP (Ranger Assessment and Selection Program) process, which is known for its demanding standards.

Bill then shares personal anecdotes about the influential leaders who left a lasting imprint on his career. These mentors played a pivotal role in guiding him towards the path of becoming an officer.

The discussion naturally transitions to Bill's own journey, recounting his experiences during his transition to an officer and his initial deployment to the Iraq war.

The conversation broadens to include the impact of Forward Operating Bases, shedding light on how these bases provided essential comforts that extended the presence of American forces in various countries.

Bill also offers a unique and vivid perspective on the Valley of Fire, sharing his experiences and struggles during that intense period. He mentions that many of these operations and moments were captured in the book, "The Hardest Place" by Wes Morgan.

A significant highlight is Bill's explanation of how his unit developed a unit award matrix. He attributes the success of this process to the reason why three soldiers in his Battalion earned the Medal of Honor.

Lastly, we briefly touch on some exciting upcoming features and ideas for the Legends Podcast.

In closing, Bill imparts valuable advice to all Rangers. He underscores the importance of understanding the rich history of the Ranger community, living out the principles of the Ranger Creed in every facet of life, and maintaining a journal to preserve the unique history and experiences of the Ranger brotherhood.

One of the key topics that emerge is the unique ethos within the Ranger Regiment. Ian explains that unlike being mere consumers, everyone within this specialized group is a contributor. This distinctive approach fosters a sense of ownership and a deep desire to contribute to the organization's success.

Faith has been a steadfast companion throughout Ian's military journey. He delves into how his faith not only supported him during his service but also provided strength during the difficult times of transition.

The conversation turns to the concept of imposter syndrome, the feeling that one doesn't truly deserve their achievements. Ian shares how this phenomenon, while challenging, also drives individuals to constantly strive for excellence.

The monumental impact of 9/11 is a turning point discussed in the episode. Ian elaborates on how this event not only shaped his path but also inspired his brothers to join the military, creating a profound family legacy of service.

A poignant chapter in Ian's story involves serving alongside his brother in the same platoon within the Ranger Regiment. Memories of jumping into northern Iraq and the sacrifices their families made highlight the deep bonds forged among servicemen and their families.

The brothers' camaraderie extends into competing together in the rigorous Best Ranger Competition, showcasing their shared determination and unbreakable connection.

Ian's journey takes a new direction when major TBI injuries necessitate a career transition. Through this challenge, he finds a renewed sense of purpose, underscoring the adaptability and resilience that military experience cultivates.

Leadership and its role in pushing individuals out of their comfort zones come under the spotlight. Ian's insights shed light on how organizations can foster growth by challenging their members to adapt and evolve.

A heartfelt reflection on fatherhood reveals Ian's wisdom on raising children. He emphasizes the importance of humility in becoming the fathers our children need, a lesson gleaned from his own experiences.

The episode concludes with a discussion about the aftermath of the Afghanistan pullout and the programs designed to support veterans. It's a reminder of the ongoing dedication to those who have served and the complexities of the global stage.

Join us as we uncover SGM(R) Ian Hunter's journey, one marked by sacrifice, faith, leadership, and personal growth, offering profound insights for listeners from all walks of life.

https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/

The episode commences by delving into the profound significance of the Ranger Creed and its indispensable role in one's life. The conversation highlights the dwindling emphasis on instilling the Ranger Creed deeply within individuals' minds as compared to the past.

The discussion then transitions to underscore the vital importance of shared comprehension and effective communication in leadership. Current challenges facing the military force are examined, shedding light on the reasons behind the ongoing difficulties in maintaining optimal force levels.

The centerpiece of the episode revolves around a comprehensive exploration of the disparities between the broader Army culture and the distinctive culture within the Ranger Regiment. The hosts candidly share their personal experiences within both spheres, discussing the merits and drawbacks of each. Notably, Chris reflects on the influential leaders who played pivotal roles in shaping his journey.

The episode takes a turn to offer insights into leadership perspectives during deployments, particularly the observations made as leaders encountering new Rangers on Forward Operating Bases (FOBs).

Chris's trajectory from his service in Korea to ultimately joining the Ranger Regiment is elaborated upon. Initially destined for RRD, his unique skill set as an 11C led to a redirection to 2/75. The narrative delves into his challenges during Ranger School, including a medical setback that led to his departure.

The episode culminates with a deep dive into senior-level leadership, a realm where Chris possesses extensive experience, having served for over 31 years in the Army.

In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of young Ranger Leaders during the early days of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). We explore the revolutionary essence of the 75th Ranger Regiment and how its unique culture nurtures innovation and growth. Our conversation uncovers essential themes that have shaped us as leaders over the years.

Episode Highlights:

1. Pioneering Beginnings: We kick off by reminiscing about our coming-of-age experiences as fledgling Ranger Leaders at the onset of the GWOT. The 75th Ranger Regiment's groundbreaking approach takes center stage as we discuss its role in fostering a distinct organizational culture that fuels progress.
2. Learning from Failure: A pivotal aspect we explore is the creation of environments that embrace failure as a means of learning and advancement. We unravel how the willingness to take calculated risks and learn from mistakes contributes to personal and organizational growth.
3. Fundamentals Breeding Innovation: Our conversation delves into the mastery of fundamentals as a cornerstone of innovation. We dissect how a solid foundation in core skills and principles becomes a springboard for groundbreaking ideas and practices.
4. Formative Initial Years: Reflecting on the significance of our early years, we underline how these foundational moments shape our trajectory as leaders over time. The importance of these years in sculpting our leadership approach becomes evident.
5. The Temptation of GWOT: We explore the allure and challenge of being part of the GWOT during its nascent stages. The fear of missing out on the unfolding events of that era is a sentiment we candidly discuss.
6. Agents of Change: Our conversation shifts to spotlight individuals who played instrumental roles in revolutionizing the 75th Ranger Regiment. Their contributions and influence in shaping the organization's evolution are highlighted.
7. A Momentous Role: We delve into the profound experience of being a Ranger Platoon Sergeant (PSG), a pinnacle in our Ranger careers. The multifaceted role's impact on leadership development is a focal point of this discussion.
8. Stepping Beyond Comfort Zones: We share anecdotes about venturing into non-infantry roles or leaving our battalion – instances that pushed us out of our comfort zones and contributed to our growth as leaders.
9. The DCO 1SG Experience: One of us recounts the experience of serving as the Deputy Commanding Officer (DCO) 1st Sergeant (1SG) and the receptiveness of leaders to new ideas and feedback. This illustrates the Regiment's adaptability and openness to innovation.
10. Memories of 2/75: We indulge in reminiscing about our time at 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. We dissect the advantages, disadvantages, and unforgettable moments shared with remarkable individuals.
11. The Humbling Return: The episode takes a reflective turn as we discuss the humbling experience of being selected to return to the Ranger Regiment as a Command Sergeant Major (CSM). The responsibilities and privileges of this role are examined.
12. Closure of Afghanistan: Our conversation culminates in a heartfelt reflection on being part of the Afghanistan closure. We delve into the myriad emotions, thoughts, and reflections that surround this significant event, including thoughts on the rapid withdrawal.
13. Closing out 20 years: Explore the intricate process of transitioning from military service to civilian life, discussing the challenges of adapting to new identities, finding purpose, translating skills, and building support networks. We delve into the emotional struggles and triumphs of this journey, offering insights for veterans and those supporting them.

Tune in as we navigate through personal anecdotes, leadership insights, and heartfelt reflections, tracing the evolution of young Ranger Leaders and the indelible impact of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

CSM ( R) Jesse Navarro delves into his life as a Ranger, taking listeners on an emotional journey from his motivations for joining the military to his struggles during and after his service, ultimately finding purpose and meaning in the post-service life.

The episode begins with Jesse reflecting on the profound impact of mentors who guided him towards the right path in the military. He talks about his decision to join 3/75 instead of 2/75 after completing the Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP), which earned him the amusing nickname "Momma's Boy." As a young private in the Ranger Regiment, he shares stories of camaraderie and pivotal moments that contributed to their unit's success.

An essential aspect discussed in this episode is the urgency of capturing Ranger stories. Jesse emphasizes that these stories must be preserved, as they hold valuable insights and experiences that may disappear with the passing of a Ranger.

As Jesse progressed through the ranks and became a senior non-commissioned officer (NCO), he navigated the complexities of balancing military responsibilities while also grappling with the impact it had on his family life. He candidly shares the challenges and sacrifices associated with leadership in the military.

The conversation then shifts to the intersection of passion and desire among Rangers, leading to tough decisions that leaders must make in the best interests of their fellow comrades. Jesse offers unique perspectives from his time leading the Dog Program, illustrating how such experiences can transform one's understanding of the Ranger Regiment.

Recounting his first combat jump and deployment to Afghanistan, Jesse reveals the anti-climactic nature of the experience, which almost drove him to leave the Ranger Regiment. His plans to attend KAG Selection were altered due to the unexpected invasion of Iraq, leading him to be part of the lead effort for Haditha Dam.

Throughout his career, Jesse encountered leaders who left a lasting impression, showing him the importance of possessing common sense as a virtue for senior leaders. He attributes peer-to-peer mentorship as a key factor in surviving the challenging environments they faced.

Jesse's journey is not without its trials and tribulations. He opens up about dealing with the devastating loss of teammates and how it affected him emotionally, despite his ability to typically shut off his emotions.

The episode concludes with Jesse candidly discussing his struggles during and after serving in the military. He highlights the significance of finding purpose, keeping the mind engaged, and reconnecting with family in post-service life.

In this special episode, recorded in person, hosts Clay and Mike engage in a heartfelt discussion with MAJ (R) Rich Thompson. The episode delves into Rich's early beginnings, his military enlistment, and the formative experiences that paved the way for his successful career. The conversation highlights the unique leadership development within the Ranger Regiment and explores the profound impact of the Ranger pipeline in nurturing exceptional leaders.

The hosts and guest also reflect on their personal journeys and discuss what they would change if they could go back in time. They share regrets about missed opportunities to connect with esteemed Rangers from the past, emphasizing the value of learning from those who came before them.

Rich provides insightful accounts of his arrival at 3/75 following the Somalia conflict and how this experience influenced his initial years in the regiment. The conversation takes a significant turn as they delve into Rich's involvement in the Iraq invasion, where he served with the 3rd ID. Rich offers a unique perspective on the integration of Rangers from an external standpoint, highlighting the valuable insights gained during his time overseeing operations as a conventional officer within the community.

An inspiring aspect of the discussion centers around Rich's triumphant return to the Ranger Regiment following open heart surgery. His resilience and determination serve as a testament to the unwavering spirit of these elite soldiers.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as they explore the topic of loss, the weight of taking lives, and the internal struggles faced by soldiers in quiet moments. They candidly address the challenges of self-reflection and the constant battle against one's own demons.

Join Clay, Mike, and MAJ (R) Rich Thompson for an episode filled with introspection, valuable insights, and a deep appreciation for the extraordinary journey of a Ranger.

Note: This episode marks the first in-person recording featuring Clay and Mike, adding an extra layer of authenticity and connection to the conversation.

In this episode, we have the honor of sitting down with the Conklin brothers, all of whom served in the 75th Ranger Regiment. Join us as we delve into their unique journeys and explore the factors that led them to serve in the Army and ultimately join the prestigious Ranger Regiment. While family ties played a significant role in their decision, each brother reveals that their motivations for enlisting were varied and deeply personal.

During our conversation, we also address the immense pressures that the Conklin family endured, but their strong familial bonds proved to be an unwavering support system throughout the challenging times. We delve into the complexities of trying to keep track of one another amidst deployments and reflect on the profound emotions experienced when witnessing a brother in a faraway land.

Furthermore, two of the Conklin brothers served as medics, and we dedicate a portion of our discussion to the demanding role of being a medic and the unique struggles associated with this profession. Through their firsthand experiences, they provide insights into the physical and emotional challenges faced on the battlefield and shed light on the resilience required to fulfill their crucial medical duties.

Join us as we gain a deeper understanding of the Conklin brothers' remarkable journeys, the impact of family dynamics, and the profound experiences they encountered while serving as members of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

CSM (R ) Tommy Williams joins us to discuss his motivation for joining the renowned 75th Ranger Regiment and the transformative impact it had on his life. We explore the early days that shaped him into a leader, and he highlights the influential leaders who played a significant role in his success.

Our conversation delves into the realm of deployments, where Tommy provides insights into the challenges, missions, and camaraderie that define the 75th Ranger Regiment's operations. Additionally, we touch upon the remarkable Ranger greats who have left an indelible mark on the unit's history.

Tommy shares his deep love for the 75th Ranger Regiment and explains what sets it apart from other military units. He highlights the unique characteristics and values that make it a special brotherhood.

We also delve into the important topic of mental health, discussing the challenges that service members face during their time in the military and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. Tommy offers valuable advice for transitioning from military to civilian life and emphasizes the significance of maintaining one's mental health throughout the journey.

Join us as we gain valuable insights from CSM (R) Tommy Williams, exploring his journey in the 75th Ranger Regiment, the significance of leadership, and the vital aspects of mental health both during and after service.

In this captivating episode, we have the extraordinary privilege of sitting down with MSG (R) Leroy Petry, a true American hero and recipient of the Medal of Honor. Leroy takes us on a profound journey as he shares his remarkable experiences during his time in the esteemed 75th Ranger Regiment.

Throughout the conversation, we gain a profound understanding of Leroy's immense impact on the Special Operations community and his relentless commitment to giving back. His dedication to serving his country and his fellow service members shines through every word.

The discussion delves into pressing societal issues and the challenges that currently plague the military. Leroy fearlessly addresses these concerns and offers thought-provoking insights on what steps need to be taken to rectify these issues before they have dire consequences.

One of the most poignant moments of the episode is when Leroy walks us through a deeply personal and intimate account of the heroic actions that transpired on the day he was awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor. His narrative is gripping, emotional, and serves as a testament to the incredible bravery displayed by Leroy and his comrades.

This episode is an absolute treasure trove of wisdom, courage, and inspiration. Leroy Petry's words resonate deeply as he shares his invaluable insights and experiences. Prepare to be moved and inspired by the extraordinary journey of one of our nation's greatest Americans, Leroy Petry.

Video Leroy Talks about in the Episode: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DrVK3PQZgg

Find Leroy on social media: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leroy-petry-3298b8a9/

In this podcast episode, we are joined by CSM (R) Adam Nash, who has served in all the Ranger Battalions and recently retired as the 4th Infantry Division CSM. We discuss his time as the 2/75 CSM and how his Senior NCO newsletter, Sage Rants, indirectly led to the creation of the Legends of the 75th. We also touch on the significance of capturing the stories and experiences of Senior NCOs.

Adam shares his humble beginnings and how he joined the Army to avoid taking out college loans. He fell in love with being a Ranger and the exciting experiences that came with it. We also explore some of the more lighthearted moments of being a Ranger in the 90s and some of the silly things they did.

We delve into how we grow as leaders to meet the expectations of our organizations and the mentors who helped shape Adam's career. Despite feeling inadequate compared to other Rangers, he learned to lead with a mindset that elevated the entire organization.

Adam shares his experiences leading efforts on Objective Rhino, where his squad was assigned to breach the first compound. It was a pivotal moment that made him realize what it meant to be in combat. Despite the seriousness of the situation in Afghanistan, Rangers still found ways to be humorous.

We also talk about the Best Ranger competition, in which Adam participated three times and won once. He shares his journey and what the event means to him.

Adam emphasizes the importance of using the talk of formations to elevate the entire organization, both inside and outside of the Regiment. He believes in recognizing that others may be smarter, faster, or stronger and using that as motivation to achieve more.

••Finally, a correction is made regarding LTC John Staeheli, who was actually Mike's commander in Cco 2/75.