S.O.S. (Stories of Service) – Ordinary people who do extraordinary work

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Mark C. Fava, an author, speaker, and career aviation lawyer who currently serves as a Vice President at The Boeing Company.Mark’s career spans decades in both the military and corporate worlds. He served as a Naval Flight Officer and Mission Commander in the P-3 Orion, accumulating over 3,000 flight hours. After 30 years in the Navy Reserve, he retired as a Captain, having commanded three units, including a P-3 squadron.Beyond the military, Mark built a distinguished legal career. He previously led a national aviation law practice at a major law firm and served as chief operations attorney for Delta Air Lines from 2001 to 2004.Now, Mark brings his wealth of experience to the world of leadership and storytelling with his first book, Lessons from the Admiral: Naval Wisdom and Sea Stories for Leaders, published in January 2025 and already an Amazon bestseller.Join us as we discuss:✔️ His journey from military aviation to corporate leadership✔️ Lessons in decision-making from the cockpit and the courtroom✔️ The leadership principles in his new book✔️ The importance of resilience and adaptability in high-stakes environmentsTune in for an insightful conversation packed with wisdom, leadership insights, and real-world stories from a career that has navigated the skies, the seas, and the boardroom.📖 Get the Book: Lessons from the Admiral https://a.co/d/4BXklCn🔗 Connect with Mark C. Fava: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcfava... 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textWhen two fellow military podcasters get together, ones who are both deeply passionate in fighting the mental health stigma by taking better care of Sailors, well you know it’s going to be a great conversation! Ladies and gentleman, is my honor to bring you the man behind the Don’t Give Up the Ship podcast! In this episode, we sit down with DGUTS, a retired Master Chief Petty Officer with 21 years of experience in the submarine service. Throughout his distinguished career, he served in critical leadership roles, including Division and Departmental Leading Chief Petty Officer, Command Career Counselor, and Senior Enlisted Leader of CS “A” School. His expertise spans Naval Military Training, Supply Management, and Equal Opportunity, making a lasting impact on those he served with.Since retiring in September 2022, DGUTS has embarked on a new mission—pursuing a graduate degree in counseling with the goal of becoming a licensed mental health counselor for veterans. Join us as we discuss his transition from military service to mental health advocacy, the challenges veterans face, and the importance of support systems in post-military life.Tune in for insights on leadership, service, and the power of giving back.🔹 Topics Covered: • DGUTS’ submarine service and leadership experience • The transition from military to civilian life • Why mental health support for veterans is crucial • His journey to becoming a licensed counselor📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!Find DGUTS - https://www.instagram.com/dgutspodcas...Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textIs there a link between brain injury and suicide or other mental health challenges? Could mandatory MRI scans help identify those at risk?In this episode of the S.O.S. Podcast, Dr. Kenneth Davis discusses his research on large-scale brain injury testing for veterans, especially those with non-combat-related injuries. We explore what this could mean for veteran care and mental health support.Join us for this important live discussion.About Our Guest – Dr. Kenneth T. DavisDr. Davis is the founder of the BIED Society and has extensive national security experience, including serving as a U.S. Marine Corps Officer and Economic Growth Officer with USAID. As a Behavioral Economist, he’s worked in 77 countries.Dr. Davis is passionate about mentoring the next generation of policy professionals and helping students reach their career goals.Don’t miss this vital conversation—tune in now!Watch the documentary trailer: BIED Society TrailerVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textCan we hold starkly different views on hard-hitting issues while staying respectful? I believe so—and my guests do too.This week, we tackle the controversy surrounding the dismissal of the Judge Advocate Generals from the Air Force, Army, and Navy. Is this a dangerous move to install Trump loyalists, or a much-needed reform of military justice? My guests bring opposing perspectives to the table in a conversation that challenges, informs, and seeks common ground.Guests:🔹 Col Don Christensen, USAF (Ret.) – Former Chief Prosecutor of the U.S. Air Force, longtime advocate for military justice reform.🔹 Timothy C. Parlatore – Nationally recognized defense attorney, veteran, and former counsel to high-profile political and military figures.Join us for this first-ever debate-style episode—let’s see where we land.Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textOak McCulloch returns to the podcast for another discussion on servant leadership and its lasting impact. His ability to drive change continues to inspire, and his book Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be remains a valuable resource.In this episode, we catch up on Oak’s journey, the impact of his leadership principles today, and what’s changed since our last conversation. Whether you’re leading a team or seeking growth, this episode is full of wisdom from Oak’s 40+ years of experience.About Our Guest:Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch is an internationally recognized speaker and author of Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be. With 40 years of leadership experience, including 23 in the U.S. Army, Oak’s servant leadership philosophy inspires professionals to lead with integrity and purpose.Key Topics:Oak’s latest projects and updates since our last conversationThe power of servant leadership todayLessons from Your Leadership Legacy for 2025Overcoming leadership challenges in today’s worldPractical advice for becoming the leader you were meant to beResources:Connect with Oak: https://www.ltcoakmcculloch.com/Your Leadership Legacy: https://a.co/d/fj9xnXUPrevious episode: https://www.youtube.com/live/O3-l-gTJTfwIf you enjoy this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who would benefit from Oak’s insights!Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textIn this episode, we chat with Richard Parker, a former college professor who became a public affairs officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Commissioned at 43 in 2013, he left academia to serve and embraced every chance to support the Navy's global mission. Richard’s toughest battle wasn’t on the frontlines—it was for his life. In January 2022, complications from a medical procedure led to septic shock, and he nearly died twice. After 88 days in the hospital, losing 45 pounds, and relearning to walk, his recovery was miraculous, thanks to his wife’s love, prayers, and God’s grace. Despite the ordeal, Richard returned to active duty as a public affairs officer for Navy Recruiting Command during a challenging time. Now back in Nashville, he serves in the Navy Reserve and is working on a book about his 2022 health struggles. Richard, author of Leadership Lessons from Monty Python and the Holy Grail, is a living example of resilience, service, and faith. Tune in for a deep dive into his journey—his academic career, decision to serve, near-death experience, and powerful return to duty.Episode Highlights: • The moment Richard chose military service over academia • How he survived septic shock and 88 days in the hospital • The mental and physical battle to recover • His role in Navy Recruiting Command during a historic challenge • The lessons he’s learned about leadership, perseverance, and faithFind Richard - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-d...Read his book - https://a.co/d/bhnaYHhVisit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textI’m beyond thrilled to welcome Sam Shoemate to the show—one of the most fearless voices in military whistleblowing today. If you believe in due process for those who’ve sacrificed for our nation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!You may remember Sam from The Shawn Ryan Show this past January—one of the many who received an email from the Cybertruck driver who detonated his car outside a Las Vegas Trump hotel. But what you might not know? Sam is often the first to break stories from those too afraid to speak out, using his TerminalCWO IG page and other platforms to expose corruption and misconduct at the highest levels.And here’s the kicker—Sam himself is a whistleblower. He’s turned down multiple big-name podcasts, yet he’s chosen to join us for this powerful discussion. What an honor!⚡ Set your reminders, spread the word, and join us LIVE! You won’t want to miss this one. 🚨Find Sam on X - https://x.com/samosaur?s=21&t=98_03W6...Find Sam on IG - https://www.instagram.com/terminalcwo...Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textAre you buying or selling a home in Central Ohio? If so, you need a trusted expert who understands the market inside and out. Karen Mavis, owner of the Karen Mavis Home Team with RE/MAX Achievers, joins us to talk about what makes a great real estate experience and how she’s helped clients navigate the process for over 22 years.Not only that, she’s a dear friend from high school! In This Episode, We Cover:🏡 The Journey of a Real Estate Pro – Karen’s passion for real estate and serving others since 2001.📈 Negotiation & Market Expertise – Why strong negotiation skills are essential when buying or selling.🔍 The Importance of Education & Technology – How staying ahead benefits her clients.🤝 A Client-First Approach – How Karen and her team ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.With over $200 million in closed real estate deals, Karen has helped countless buyers and sellers find success. Whether you’re looking for a new home, selling your current one, or just want expert advice, Karen Mavis and her team are here for you—today, tomorrow, and for a lifetime!📞 Contact Karen Mavis📍 RE/MAX Achievers📧 SoldbyKarenMavis@gmail.com📱 614-499-9595Tune in now to learn how to navigate the Central Ohio real estate market like a pro!Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textThis is a show I wish I didn’t have to do. But the truth is, the command investigation system is broken, and if no one else will fix it, we’re going to shine a light on the harm it causes—directly from those who have lived it.It’s our love for the military that compels us to speak up. We believe in accountability, justice, and taking care of our own. This episode features firsthand accounts from survivors of sexual assault, harassment, and bullying—not just about what happened to them, but about the systemic failures that followed.We’ll focus on three major issues: 1. Lack of Adequate Legal Aid – Victims and complainants often face an uphill battle without proper legal support. 2. Systemic Vulnerabilities – How administrative investigatory and punishment tools can be misused or weaponized. 3. Command Incentives to Dismiss Complaints – Why substantiating complaints is often against a command’s interests.While my guests’ experiences are deeply personal and painful, this episode isn’t just about their individual stories. The real story is what happened after—the betrayal by DoD and Coast Guard leadership when they failed to act with integrity, accountability, and justice.This show represents the opinions and beliefs of our guests. They speak for themselves, not on behalf of any entity.It’s time to tell the truth. Tune in.Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Amber Kulesza, an Air Force Disabled Veteran and the Chief Adventure Officer (CAO) of AmbersAdventures, LLC. Amber’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and an unwavering passion for helping others.In this episode, you'll learn about:Military Career: Amber’s diverse roles, including serving as a Crew Chief for the F-16 and A-10, as well as positions in Postal Management and Cyber Career Fields.Navigating the VA System: Amber’s expertise in understanding the VA system and helping other veterans access benefits and resources.Finding Strength in Community: How Amber used support from organizations like Wounded Warrior Project and No Barriers to improve her physical and mental health.Personal Triumph: Amber’s inspiring journey from riding one mile on a recumbent bike to completing a 52-mile ride on a two-wheel bike, highlighting her determination and the impact of community support.Fun Facts About Amber: • She’s a SUPER AUNTIE who treasures quality time with her nieces and nephews, from building Legos to sharing donuts. • Her happy place is scuba diving in Okinawa, Japan, and collecting sea glass along its beautiful beaches.Connect with Amber:Be sure to follow Amber on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for free resources on accessible travel, updates on her new website launching this year, and inspiring stories to help you embrace your next adventure. Amber will also be hosting “Lunch and Learn” sessions to empower veterans in navigating the VA system and beyond!Get ready to be inspired by Amber’s journey and the incredible work she’s doing to support her fellow veterans. Tune in now!Find Amber - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-kul...Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTERRead my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.comWatch episodes of my podcast:https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76