The Lost Art Project: Veterans’ Voices

Marine Corps Veteran Christian Flores grew up in California where he stayed active playing sports, running track, and developing a passion for music by learning and performing on several instruments. Like many young people, he faced challenges along the way, but he was fortunate to have strong mentors and good people in his life who helped guide him in the right direction.
As his musical abilities continued to grow, Christian caught the attention of a Marine musician who encouraged him to audition for the United States Marine Corps. That moment sparked a new path, and he decided joining the Marine Corps might be exactly what he needed.
During his time in the Marine Corps, Christian focused on doing his job well and staying out of trouble, often joking that his main goal was simply to avoid getting his butt chewed out. However, that dedication to doing things the right way quickly set him apart from his peers and helped him rise through the ranks.
Through hard work and leadership, he eventually became a Marine Band Officer, leading Marine musical units around the world and representing the Corps with pride and professionalism.
Don’t miss this incredible story of service, music, and leadership.

James Ridenour, Navy Veteran, had a fairly difficult upbringing in Oklahoma. With several family members who had served in the military, James knew he needed a change of direction before heading down the wrong path. Determined to build a better future, he chose to join the United States Navy and see the world.
During his time in the Navy, James worked in aviation support, preparing pilots for flight by ensuring all of their safety gear, including parachutes and flight equipment, was properly inspected and ready for use. It was a job that required precision, responsibility, and trust, knowing that a pilot’s life could depend on the work done behind the scenes.
After serving aboard several ships and completing his time in the Navy, James decided it was time to return home to Oklahoma, bringing with him the lessons, discipline, and experiences gained during his service.

Join us for a great conversation with Air Force veteran David Bradford as he shares the story of his unique journey through military service and beyond.
Growing up as an Air Force brat, David was inspired by his father’s service and eventually chose to follow in his footsteps by joining the United States Air Force. Working in Administration, he quickly proved himself through his dedication and professionalism, eventually being hand-picked for an assignment overseas.
After serving his country, David stepped away from the Air Force for a time before returning once again to continue his service. Ultimately deciding it was time for a new chapter in life, he transitioned out of the military again and pursued higher education.
David went on to become a college professor, teaching at several universities across the country. His passion for learning and enthusiasm for teaching made a lasting impact on the many students who passed through his classrooms.
Don’t miss this episode as David reflects on service, change, and the drive to keep moving forward in life.
🎙️ Real stories. Real veterans. Real conversations.🔥 Stay motivated.🧦 And as always… change your socks.

Join us for another great episode of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew as we gather around for a relaxed conversation filled with stories, laughs, and a few lessons learned along the way.
This week the Crew dives into a mix of topics from the veteran community, sharing perspectives from their time in service and discussing some of the things veterans experience after hanging up the uniform. As always, you never quite know where the conversation will go—but that’s what makes these chats so much fun.
Expect plenty of sea stories, some good-natured ribbing between the Crew, and the kind of honest conversation that only happens when veterans get together and start talking.
So grab your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and join us around the fire for another episode of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew.

Tune in for Part 4 of Army Veteran Robin DeLeon as he continues sharing his incredible veteran story.
Throughout his journey, Robin faced many twists and turns, but one constant remained—his drive toward the medical field and helping others. The experience and expertise he gained over the years prepared him for the leadership roles he would eventually step into.
Known for always striving to improve the mission and those around him, Robin pushed himself and his fellow soldiers to be better every day. His dedication to leadership, service, and mentorship helped shape the teams he worked with and the people he led.
Don’t miss this episode as Robin continues sharing the next chapter of his unique and inspiring story.

Tune in for the latest FireSide Chat with the Crew as we welcome Adam Castillo to the show to talk about his new book.
A Marine Corps Veteran, Adam took the drive and determination he developed in the military and applied it to finding success in the civilian job market. Using the lessons he learned along the way, he discovered how veterans can remain relevant, competitive, and effective after transitioning out of the service.
Now he’s sharing those insights with others through his book and conversations like this one. Join us as Adam sits down with the Crew for a great discussion about leadership, transition, and the lessons that can help veterans succeed beyond the uniform.
Don’t miss this great episode of FireSide Chat with the Crew.
"Finding Our Voice: A Story of Leadership in Crisis and the American Spirit Abroad"
Get your copy now!

Tune in for a great conversation with Navy veteran OB Brewer as he shares his unique journey through military service and beyond.
Growing up in Southeast Oklahoma, OB had a solid upbringing that helped shape his work ethic early on. With a background in construction, he made the decision to join the Navy and became a Seabee, where that skillset was put to the test in real-world conditions.
Throughout his career, OB spent the majority of his time overseas, grinding day in and day out—often working seven days a week alongside his fellow Seabees. His story is one of hard work, dedication, and the kind of resilience that only comes from living it.
Don’t miss this episode as OB brings his experiences to the table, sharing lessons learned, challenges faced, and the reality of life in the Seabees.
🎙️ Real stories. Real veterans. Real conversations.🔥 Stay motivated.🧦 Change your socks.

Janeen Baggette, Air Force Veteran, had a unique and meaningful career that began in the medical field. Serving in both the Reserve and on Active Duty, she later became attached to an AeroVac unit, where she played a vital role caring for wounded service members. During that time, she was deployed in support of Desert Storm, serving overseas in Kuwait.
After returning home and completing her time in service, Janeen continued her commitment to helping others by beginning a career in law enforcement. Her dedication to service didn’t stop there. She eventually founded K9s for Veterans, an organization focused on bringing specially trained dogs into the law enforcement community as companions to help locate and assist individuals who have survived traumatic events.
Janeen’s story is one of sacrifice, compassion, and continued service long after the uniform comes off.
To learn more about her work, visit k9sforveterans.org.

Roger Thurber, Marine Corps Veteran, grew up in eastern Oklahoma where he enjoyed a good childhood that helped shape his strong work ethic from an early age.
After joining the Marine Corps, Roger carried that same dedication into his service. Though his time in the Corps was relatively short, it was productive, and he made it a point to show everyone around him just how hard he was willing to work.
Following his military service, Roger returned home to Oklahoma where he focused on what mattered most—his family—working hard to provide for them and do right by those closest to him.
Tune in to hear Roger’s story and the values that guided him through service and life afterward.

Join us for another great FireSide Chat with the Crew as we sit down to talk about the journeys, challenges, and experiences that shape the lives of those who have served.
Growing up, many of us faced different obstacles and turning points that helped guide us toward military service. During this episode, the crew reflects on the paths that led to joining the armed forces, the mentors and influences that helped along the way, and the lessons learned during those formative years.
From the early days of figuring things out, to learning discipline, responsibility, and leadership, the conversation highlights how service in the military can shape a person’s life in ways they never expected.
Tune in as the crew shares stories, laughs, and real conversations about service, growth, and the experiences that continue to bring veterans together long after the uniform comes off. You won’t want to miss this episode.