Permission To Speak Freely

PTSF Podcast returns with another hosts-only episode as Damo checks in from Navy Week in Delaware while Damon joins from Fallon, Nevada. The guys kick things off with Damo sharing his experience learning the Navy Ceremonial Guard’s four-man drill, then get into a discussion about healthy conflict, leadership, and knowing when to let people work through their differences. The conversation shifts as the guys respond to a listener question about burnout in the military and how leaders can manage it for themselves and their Sailors. Also, the two discuss establishing boundaries between work and personal life, accountability, personal relationships, and whether someone’s mistakes should change how they’re viewed. Later, Damon addresses the military’s tendency to overload dependable Sailors with additional responsibilities, leading Damo into a passionate discussion about the Navy’s evaluation system, legacy rankings, reporting senior averages, and the lack of honest performance assessments. The guys also debate whether the evaluation system itself is broken or if the real problem lies with how leaders use it. Plus, personal stories, plenty of laughs, and much more!

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Pick of the Week:

No Excuses: The Power of Hard Work and Discipline (Mike Stevens) - https://noexcusesthepowerofhardworkanddiscipline.com/

PTSF Theme music: Produced by Lim0

What happens when a Navy Sailor turns his passion for fitness into a business while navigating the transition from enlisted Sailor to commissioned officer?

This week on Permission to Speak Freely, Damo, Aar on, and Damon welcome Ensign Beniah Williams, founder of True Fitness, for a conversation that goes well beyond the gym. When we originally booked Beniah for the podcast, he was a First Class Petty Officer. By the time we sat down to record, he had earned his commission and was beginning an entirely new chapter in his Navy career. Throughout the conversation, Beniah shares his journey from struggling with his own weight to becoming a fitness instructor, entrepreneur, and Naval Officer. He discusses the challenges of building a business while serving on active duty, his experiences aboard Navy ships, and how his approach to fitness has evolved over the years. The crew also gets into the Navy’s physical readiness culture, whether fitness scores should carry more weight in evaluations, the realities of maintaining fitness while deployed, and the difference between preparing Sailors to pass a test and building a culture of genuine physical readiness. From military leadership and personal accountability to entrepreneurship, nutrition, and the importance of finding a fitness routine that works for you, this episode covers plenty of ground.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

ENS Beniah Williams | Naval Officer | Founder, True Fitness

Ensign Beniah Williams is a United States Navy officer, fitness entrepreneur, and experienced group fitness instructor. Before earning his commission, Beniah served as an enlisted Yeoman, gaining experience across multiple Navy assignments, including sea duty and service at the Pentagon. His passion for fitness began with his own personal transformation. After facing weight challenges early in life, he pursued fitness instruction and eventually earned certifications across more than ten fitness programs and specialties. In 2023, he founded True Fitness, a veteran-owned fitness business focused on making wellness accessible through personalized training, group instruction, and online workouts. Through the True Fitness Workouts platform, Beniah continues to help individuals develop sustainable fitness habits regardless of their experience level, location, or physical starting point. His philosophy is straightforward: fitness isn’t about everyone looking the same. It’s about becoming a healthier version of yourself.

CONNECT WITH BENIAH & TRUE FITNESS

• Official Website: http://truefitnessdc.com
• True Fitness Workouts App: Available for iPhone and Android.
• LinkedIn: Beniah Williams
• True Fitness LinkedIn: True Fitness | Online Workouts

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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What does it take to succeed in spaces where people believe you don't belong? In this episode of Permission to Speak Freely, Damo and Aaron welcome retired U.S. Navy Captain Dr. Barbara Bell for a conversation about perseverance, leadership, breaking barriers, and the lessons learned throughout an extraordinary career. As a member of the fourth class of women to enter the United States Naval Academy, Barbara experienced firsthand the challenges of entering an institution that was still learning to accept women. Her journey eventually took her into naval aviation, the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, and efforts to expand opportunities for women in military service. Throughout the conversation, Barbara reflects on the importance of mentorship, the responsibility of being a trailblazer, and why standing out can sometimes be more powerful than fitting in. The discussion also explores leadership development, the role of artificial intelligence in education, and the importance of ethical leadership. Drawing from her book, Flight Lessons: Navigating Through Life's Turbulence and Learning to Fly High, Barbara shares perspectives on navigating adversity, embracing opportunities, and preparing the next generation of leaders.

About the Guest

Dr. Barbara Bell is a retired U.S. Navy Captain, naval aviator, author, educator, and leadership speaker. A 1983 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, she was among the institution's earliest female graduates and later attended the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. Throughout her distinguished Navy career, she accumulated more than 1,600 flight hours across 35 types of U.S. and allied aircraft. She also participated in efforts to remove combat exclusion restrictions that limited opportunities for women in military aviation and other combat assignments. Dr. Bell holds a Doctor of Education from Vanderbilt University and currently serves as an adjunct instructor at the United States Naval Academy, continuing her commitment to developing future leaders. She is the author of Flight Lessons: Navigating Through Life's Turbulence and Learning to Fly High, a book that draws on her personal and professional experiences to explore resilience, courage, and leadership.

Support and Connect With Barbara Bell

Purchase Flight Lessons:

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Flight-Lessons/Barbara-Bell/9781642253603

Official Website:

https://captainbarbarabell.com/

Connect on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-bell-ed-d

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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Captain Marcus A. Canady joins Damon and Damo for a conversation about leadership, connection, trust, and what it means to truly know the people you lead. The conversation centers on Canady’s concept of “Intrusive Leadership,” a leadership style built around intentional engagement with people beyond their professional responsibilities. Canady explains why leaders should understand what is happening in the lives of their people, how trust has to be earned before those conversations can happen, and why being intrusive does not mean ignoring personal boundaries. As he explains during the conversation, leaders can put themselves “on the porch,” but the other person still has to invite them inside. The group discusses emotional intelligence, listening, accountability, mentorship, family, parenthood, diversity, mental health, suicide prevention, and the responsibility leaders have to understand perspectives different from their own. Canady shares stories from throughout his career, including leaders who intentionally invested in him, the impact his wife and family have had on his development, and a conversation with Gen. C.Q. Brown Jr. about a leader who considered Brown’s family while helping map out his career. Damo reflects on his own leadership experiences and how his approach has changed over time, including learning more about the interests of younger Sailors at his command and finding ways to meet them where they are. Canady also challenges military organizations to think more deliberately about how they develop leaders of people, not simply leaders capable of accomplishing the mission.

About CAPT Marcus A. Canady:
Marcus Canady is a U.S. Coast Guard captain, aviator, author, leadership educator, and founder and CEO of Canady Leadership Group. A 2000 graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, Canady completed Naval Aviation Flight Training and spent much of his career flying MH-65 helicopters. His operational experience includes search and rescue, hurricane response, and counter-narcotics missions. He later served as commanding officer of Coast Guard Air Station Houston and as the Coast Guard Chair and a military instructor at the National Defense University’s Eisenhower School. Canady holds graduate degrees from Duquesne University, Syracuse University, and the National War College. He is the author of Intrusive Leadership: How to Become THAT Leader. The second edition was released in 2025 and expands his examination of leadership built around trust, emotional intelligence, listening, intentional engagement, and making people feel seen and valued.

Get the book:
Intrusive Leadership, 2nd Edition — Curry Brothers Publishing
Intrusive Leadership, Edition 2 — Apple Books
Intrusive Leadership, 2nd Edition Military Version — Google Books

Learn more about Marcus Canady:
Canady Leadership Group

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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This week on Permission to Speak Freely, Damon and Damo sit down with NC1 Corey Brennan for a conversation that starts with Navy recruiting and ends up going way beyond it. Corey breaks down what life is really like on recruiting duty, from competing for contracts and managing Future Sailors to MEPS, waivers, Genesis, recruiting ethics, and the things recruiters deal with that the Fleet rarely sees. He also opens up about his transition from QM to career recruiter, his aspirations to make Chief, and the uncertainty surrounding his future in the Navy as he navigates the service’s beard and PFB policies. But somewhere along the way, the conversation leaves recruiting behind. The crew gets into social media, burnout, learning to take care of yourself when everyone depends on you, marriage, fatherhood, separation, and the challenge of finding space for yourself when life never seems to stop. Corey also turns the tables on Damo and Damon with a few questions of his own, leading to conversations about what the anchors actually give a Chief, leadership as access and influence, and what people really mean when they tell Sailors to “drink the Kool-Aid.” Plus: recruiting house calls gone wrong, a 47-pound applicant, Equinox refusing to leave Damo alone, expensive one-year-old birthday parties, and Damon reveals the veteran husband strategy of simply standing up when your wife starts cleaning. Another conversation that went exactly where it was supposed to go.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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200 episodes. Damn.

Damo, Damon, and Aaron are all together for a milestone episode of Permission To Speak Freely. There’s no big guest and no attempt to turn Episode 200 into another Navy news show. This one is about the podcast.

The guys look back at the road from recording in the house to 200 episodes, revisiting some of the guests, conversations, arguments, ridiculous moments, and people who helped PTSF become what it is today. They talk about how the show has evolved without ever boxing itself into one type of conversation, covering everything from Navy policy and leadership to mental health, life after service, music, movies, relationships, and sometimes just three friends talking shit.

Damo also breaks down the growth of the podcast over the years, gives flowers to some of the people who helped along the way, and reflects on what it means to reach a number that most podcasts never see.

But more than anything, Episode 200 is about the people behind the microphones. Damo, Damon, and Aaron talk about their chemistry, their friendship, how much life has changed since the beginning, and why after all these years they can still turn the mics on and somehow make an episode out of damn near anything.

No big celebration. No victory lap. Just the fellas appreciating the fact that somehow, some way, we made it to 200.

It’s Episode 200.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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Damo and Aaron are back for a guest-free episode covering Navy leadership, quality of life, money, artificial intelligence, and everything that happens when the conversation goes completely off script.

The episode begins with a discussion about the latest CNO and MCPON town hall, including Sailor concerns about advancement exams, retention, housing, childcare, financial literacy, grooming standards, and whether Navy leadership is hearing what Sailors actually need. Damo and Aaron debate personal responsibility versus the Navy’s responsibility to provide resources and support.

The conversation shifts to artificial intelligence and the growing capabilities of AI agents before taking a more personal turn when Aaron shares how he used AI to imagine a conversation with his late mother. From there, the guys get into movies, television, music, hip-hop, and the usual PTSF randomness.

The episode closes with a powerful leadership lesson inspired by the voice of Optimus Prime and the importance of being “strong enough to be gentle,” before Damo’s Do Better challenges Sailors to invest in their own careers.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Pick of the Week:

Driving While Black (Gretchen Sorin) - https://wwnorton.com/books/9781631495694

Batman: Knightfall Part 1 (Jeff Wamester) - https://www.warnerbros.com/movies/batman-knightfall-part-1-knightfall

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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Damo and Aaron are joined by retired YNCS Coby Turner and Lieutenant Commander Kris Hodge for a conversation about Navy leadership, career development, family, identity, and life beyond the uniform. Kris shares her journey from enlisted Sailor to Navy officer and discusses mentorship, race, gender, raising four children, and pursuing professional goals without allowing the military to become her entire identity. Aaron opens up about his decision to reenlist, while Coby reflects on retirement and finding purpose after active-duty service. The conversation also explores the realities of geo-bachelor life and the sacrifices military families make when career opportunities require separation. Damo, Kris, and Coby share their experiences and question whether the Navy should provide more support for Sailors navigating geo-baching. The episode closes with a leadership discussion about demanding excellence, avoiding career comparisons, sharing knowledge, and why gatekeeping creates weaker teams and burned-out Sailors. Damo also recommends Questlove’s Hip Hop Is History during Pick of the Week.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Pick of the Week:

Hip Hop is History (Questlove) - https://questlove.com/hip-hop-is-history/

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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In this episode of Permission To Speak Freely, Damo and Aaron are joined by ITC Raven Douglass and HMC Josh Mackey for a wide-ranging conversation about Chief Season, leadership, Navy culture, and the policies shaping today’s Sailors. The crew starts with Chief initiation and debates whether the process has become too dependent on location, personalities, and individual Messes, or whether a more standardized approach would create a better experience for Chief Selects. From there, they get into package reviews, selection-board feedback, physical readiness expectations, and what Sailors are actually supposed to do with the advice they receive after not being selected. The conversation expands into military social media and the responsibility that comes with having a platform, including where the line should be drawn when Sailors create content in uniform or while at work. The group also discusses accountability, leadership after mistakes, barracks conditions, uniform standards, and some of the everyday issues that continue to frustrate Sailors across the fleet. Later, things get heated when the conversation turns to how the Navy handled COVID, vaccine mandates and separations, and whether lessons from those decisions have anything in common with the Navy’s current approach to beards. Damo and Aaron strongly disagree, Raven weighs in, and Doc brings another perspective to a debate that becomes one of the episode’s most spirited exchanges. Somewhere along the way, the crew also manages to argue about AI-generated content, influencers, back pockets on khakis, engineers stuffing everything imaginable into their uniforms, and whether people can still recognize what’s real on the internet. Four voices. Plenty of disagreement. No shortage of jokes. And nearly three hours of Permission To Speak Freely.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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Captain Stacy Wuthier, Commanding Officer of Naval Station Everett, joins Damo for a conversation about the Green Ribbon Program and how commands can create stronger support networks for Sailors. Captain Wuthier shares her journey from enlisting in the Navy and entering the nuclear power pipeline to earning her commission, serving aboard ships, commanding USS Jackson Blue Crew, and eventually taking command of Naval Station Everett. She and Damo discuss installation leadership, relying on subject matter experts, verifying information, and maintaining standards while leading organizations with multiple programs and responsibilities. The conversation shifts to the Green Ribbon Program, why Captain Wuthier brought it to Naval Station Everett, and the problems it is designed to address. She explains how Green Ribbon representatives are selected and trained, the role of the command chaplain, why junior Sailors and civilians can be valuable participants, and why representatives must genuinely want to help people rather than participate for recognition or evaluation purposes. Damo and Captain Wuthier discuss the Navy's tendency to tell Sailors to ask for help while placing most of the responsibility on the Sailor to initiate the conversation. They talk about recognizing when someone may be struggling, creating additional avenues for Sailors to seek support, confidentiality, knowing when a problem requires professional assistance, and why Green Ribbon representatives are connectors to resources rather than counselors. They also discuss how Green Ribbon complements deckplate leadership, what success looks like when measuring prevention and connectedness, taking care of those who consistently help others, and why Captain Wuthier believes commands should never mandate participation in the program. The discussion expands into the difference between creating another Navy program and building something that becomes part of a command's culture. Later, Captain Wuthier shares some of the books that have influenced her leadership and discusses imposter syndrome, confidence, and lifelong learning. For the Do Better segment, she talks about becoming a better listener and being more present during conversations. Damo shares a recent experience that reminded him that solving a Sailor's problem and making sure the Sailor feels heard are not always the same thing. Before closing, Captain Wuthier reflects on her approaching retirement and answers what Navy memory she would keep if she could only keep one.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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What happens on a Saturday night when we’re bored with nothing to do? We go live.

Damo and Aaron are joined on IG Live by recent guest OSCS William Morris and one of the show’s OG guests, ABCM (Ret.) Alquin Parker, host of the “Legendary Moments” podcast.

The conversation goes everywhere.

Mo checks Damo for allegedly faking being sick to get out of recording a podcast, and the guys talk about the daily grind of a Sailor in the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard. Alquin Parker pops in and asks about the recruiting process for the Ceremonial Guard, while the crew reflects on Mo’s recent episode of PTSF and whether he plans to stay in Japan after retirement.

Damo questions social media “stitch culture” and the dangers of publicly airing people out online, giving listeners a preview of a conversation coming on a future episode. AP tells the story of correcting someone’s uniform in the supermarket. Damo somehow ends up having to talk to one of his Sailors about using his picture as their profile photo. The guys also discuss how COVID changed communication, connection, and fellowship.

Those conversations, plenty of randomness, and much more happened during this live edition of “Permission To Speak Freely.”

Check out 'AP' on "Legendary Moments podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcast, Spotify and more...

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/legendary-moments/id1881213522

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2IsY1P0MZKfqCoYSRmUal1DUQOqk1dRE

https://open.spotify.com/show/1p2XOMIbxKT00wAHRf1EMi?si=cN9BY7-oRHS0WojEfGv2tw&nd=1&dlsi=7ff5bac2812e41be

https://www.instagram.com/legendarymomentspod/

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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OSCS William Morris stops by the podcast for a conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the responsibility that comes with leading Sailors. The discussion covers life in Japan, making Chief while deployed, building future leaders, the value of meaningful checkout conversations, and why leadership is about more than rank or position. The conversation also explores retention, communication across the fleet, leading through constant change, and what today's Navy can do to better support both leaders and Sailors. Later, the focus shifts to what still gives leaders hope, what the Navy continues to get right, the opportunities military service provides, work-life balance, gratitude, and the importance of genuinely caring about people. These and more topics are covered in this episode.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

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This wasn't supposed to become an episode.

A guest canceled at the last minute, but the guys were already rolling.

Figured they'd talk for a few minutes before packing everything up.

Somehow that turned into conversations about Chief Initiation, being "just an E7," Christopher Nolan, LeBron, podcast chemistry, PFB, and a whole lot more.

It wasn't planned.

It wasn't polished.

It just felt too good to delete.

The crew is joined by returning guest 2K Kenny, who is back nearly two years after his first appearance on Episode 136. With Damon away, Damo, Aaron, and Kenny begin by discussing the cost of CMC initiation events, “integrity counting” during the PRT, and the technical difference between a Sailor’s rate, rating, and paygrade. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging people, lessons from suicide-intervention training, and why something as simple as saying hello can carry more weight than we realize. The crew then catches up on everything Kenny has accomplished since his first appearance. He discusses making second class, earning his ESWS qualification, enduring repeated deployment extensions, and turning the realities of sea duty into music that connects with Sailors. Kenny explains how he learned to embrace being called corny, respond to criticism with confidence, and lean further into the creativity that made him stand out. The conversation moves through vintage Navy uniforms, content days, guerrilla marketing, getting recognized around base—and while driving Uber—and the growing community of Sailors creating their own lanes through social media. Kenny also opens up about his family, his evolving relationships with his parents, and the responsibility that came with growing up as the oldest of ten children. He reflects on the leader he wants to become, the sponsor who made his arrival in Hawaii memorable, and the importance of correcting Sailors while still advocating for them. From opening for Trey Songz and growing his streaming audience to removing music that no longer represented him, strengthening his faith, studying harmonies, and pursuing an opportunity to perform at Fleet Week, Kenny shares how his goals have matured without losing the passion that started everything. Along the way, the crew debates the Navy’s most respected rates, revisits Love & Basketball, explores the stories behind Kenny’s music, and offers a few ideas for where his sound could go next.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links to follow 2K Kenny:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ofPPFgZgYPtLajjoLtOx6?si=f26HTx2KSFGfxoZG-Ibw4A

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/2k-kenny/1518348938

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLqp0kj5XZBAMfb24k_KJbg/community

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@2kkenny1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2kkenny/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2kkenny/

PTSF Theme music: Produced by Lim0

One of the biggest Navy policy changes of the year is here, and we're breaking it all down. This week, we discuss NAVADMIN 140/26 and NAVADMIN 162/26, covering the Navy's updated guidance on religious accommodations, grooming standards, and facial hair policy. Joining us is retired Navy Captain Dr. John Cordle, who explains what Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (PFB) is, how it's commonly treated, who it affects, and what these changes could mean for Sailors and the Fleet. We also discuss barracks and BAH challenges for first-term Sailors, Congress looking into the hard fouls on Caitlin Clark, Reserve Chief selection results, truth in reporting, a Navy Senior Chief charged with child pornography, and honor the life of CMDR Gabriel Edwards. Plus, we respond to listener comments, discuss what went wrong with Damo's Instagram story, talk about joining the military later in life, Aaron's first official PTSF DRB, Damon's apartment search for his son, Damo's retirement trip to Norfolk, this week's Do Better segment, and our Picks of the Week.

Referenced Resources:

• NAVADMIN 140/26 – Updated Guidance on Grooming Standards and Religious Liberty

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2026/NAV26140.pdf

• NAVADMIN 162/26 – Facial Hair Groom Standards Update

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2026/NAV26162.pdf

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Picks of the Week:

Intrusive Leadership (Marcus A. Canady) - https://www.cgaalumni.org/s/1043/21/interior.aspx?sid=1043&gid=1&pgid=6893

Turn the Ship Around - (L. David Marquet) - https://davidmarquet.com/books/turn-the-ship-around-book/

The Captain Class (Sam Walker) - https://www.bysamwalker.com/the-captain-class

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**Listener Discretion** This episode contains discussions about suicide, mental health, prostitution, pornography, trauma, and religious faith that may be difficult for some listeners.

This week, the guys sit down with Army veteran and author Devin Fish, whose memoir, Answering the Hard Questions, takes readers through a life marked by poverty, constant change, broken relationships, self-hatred, and ultimately, redemption. Devin opens up about growing up in Rockford, Illinois, moving from school to school, joining the Army to escape his circumstances, and the experiences that forced him to confront some of the darkest moments of his life. The conversation explores mental health, loneliness, romance scams, pornography, prostitution, faith, identity, and what it really takes to rebuild yourself after believing you're beyond saving. The guys also dive into the creative process behind writing a deeply personal memoir, the discipline required to tell your story honestly, and why helping just one person can make sharing your story worth it. Whether you've ever struggled with purpose, questioned your faith, battled your own inner voice, or simply wondered how someone finds hope after years of self-destruction, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Stay connected with Devin Fish:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devin.fish.79

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@9d7fish

Picks of the Week:

Answering the Hard Questions (Devin Fish) - https://www.youtube.com/@9d7fish

A Man at Arms (Steven Pressfield) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0393540979?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

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We were definitely UA last week, and we're sorry about that. This week, the guys are back—minus Damon—but joined by NCC Quintavious Nelson (aka Que Nels) to catch up on everything that's happened across the Navy over the past few weeks.

Damo kicks things off with his latest gripe: having to shave every single day. The conversation quickly shifts into the time Que got the pod in trouble around Christmas, which naturally leads into a discussion about his relationship with social media and life as an influencer.

The crew shares their Father's Day After-Action Reports before Damo asks what the big deal is about Love Island? That opens the door to a rabbit hole about the TV shows everyone's watching right now.

Aaron talks about launching his "Standard Bearer" run challenge and reflects on attending his final Corpsman Ball. The release of the E-5 and E-6 advancement results sparks another conversation as Sailors wonder where the BBA results are. That leads Damo to share his thoughts on why some Sailors feel they aren't given enough time to truly learn so many new Navy policies—and what could be done to fix it.

Since it's Men's Mental Health Month, the guys discuss whether it's actually being taken seriously. They also debate whether Barack Obama should have responded after an MMA fighter publicly insulted his wife. Que shares a personal sea story about an experience that completely changed his perspective on mental health.

Damo reminds everyone that Permission to Speak Freely has always been a lifestyle podcast—not just a leadership show. Que then dives deeper into his journey as a social media influencer and what he's learned along the way.

Other topics include:

• Why some of y'all were way too excited about those tropical uniforms?
• The tragic death of a 21-year-old woman who was thrown from a bungee jump attraction by staff, and whether it was truly an accident.
• Questions surrounding the recent shooting death aboard the USS John F. Kennedy.
• A Navy service member stationed in Virginia is being charged after a missing Louisiana teenager was found connected to him in Norfolk.
• General Daniel "Chappie" James Jr. in this week's Highlighting Our Heroes segment.
• NAVADMIN 140/26 and the Navy's updated guidance on religious accommodations for facial hair.
• The Navy's new selection board feedback process, beginning with the latest Chief Petty Officer board, and whether the feedback will actually satisfy those who receive it.
• Que is asking Aaron and Damo for their thoughts on Career Summary Letters.
• Aaron discusses stereotypes often assigned to leaders who aren't married.
• What's really going on with the growing popularity of run clubs?

This week's Do Better segment covers:

• Stop underestimating senior leadership.
• Establish an ETP task force.
• Build morale within the Career Counselor community.

To wrap things up, Que gives a firsthand review of Project Compass and leaves listeners with an important message about the power of connection. All this and much more on this week's episode of Permission to Speak Freely.

Do you have “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptstpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with us: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Stay connected with NCC Que Nelson:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@que_nels?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/que_nels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qnelsonuint

Links and more from this Episode:

E5/E6 Advancement Results - chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Career/EnlistedCareerAdmin/Advancement/EnlistedResults/Cycle%20271%20AC%20E5_E6%20Quotas.pdf?ver=dyGNaH7uZFB10zh3DBMo3g%3D%3D

Men’s Mental Health - https://www.nami.org/stay-connected/events/awareness-events/mens-health-month/

Woman Dead after Bungee incident - https://www.nbcnews.com/world/south-america/three-instructors-charged-bridge-jumping-death-woman-not-secured-rope-rcna350192

Navy Tropical Uniforms - https://nara.getarchive.net/topics/tropical+white/navy+uniforms

Shooting Death Onboard USS JFK - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2026/06/08/navy-investigating-shooting-death-of-sailor-aboard-uss-john-f-kennedy/

Missing Louisana Teen Found - https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/mycity/norfolk/virginia-navy-norfolk-charged-teen-found-virginia-beach/291-d42d35b9-e7c9-4fa2-bf5e-e3394e760711

NAVADMIN 140/26 - chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2026/NAV26140.pdf?ver=k-7zlZ6LnqhlJUb9A8mBjA%3d%3d

Hero of the Week:

General Daniel Chappie James Jr. - https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/106647/daniel-james-jr/

Pick of the Week:

Celestine Propechy (James Redfield) - https://miravalshop.com/products/the-celestine-prophecy

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Damon, Damo, and Aaron are joined by LCDR Jeff “Migs” Migdal. Jeff is a Cryptologic Warfare Officer, prior-enlisted Sailor, and longtime commissioning mentor who has helped countless Sailors navigate the path from enlisted service to the officer ranks. The conversation begins with Jeff sharing his journey from joining the Navy as an undesignated Airman to eventually earning a commission after multiple application attempts. He discusses the lessons he learned along the way, including how setbacks, preparation, and persistence shaped his career. The group explores common misconceptions about officer programs and why being eligible does not necessarily make someone competitive. Jeff provides insight into the commissioning process, discussing OCS, LDO, STA-21, motivational statements, appraisal interviews, OAR scores, and the importance of understanding program authorizations before submitting a package. The hosts examine the role mentorship plays in professional development and discuss the difference between mentors who guide and individuals who expect others to do the work for them.

The discussion also turns to social media, information sharing, and how technology has changed the way Sailors seek career advice. Jeff explains why many applicants fail before their package ever reaches a selection board, while Damo reflects on lessons learned from his own experiences pursuing advancement and career opportunities. Later in the episode, the conversation broadens into leadership, standards, and accountability. The hosts discuss the importance of correcting Sailors, maintaining good order and discipline, and why seemingly small standards can have a larger impact on organizational culture. Damo introduces his “Get the Fries Right” analogy as the group explores the relationship between attention to detail and effective leadership. The episode closes with reflections on service, mentorship, and the responsibility leaders have to help others succeed. Jeff shares why he has dedicated so much time to helping future officers, while the hosts discuss the importance of preparation, ownership, and personal accountability. Jeff also shares the advice he would give any Sailor considering a commission and explains why, in the end, nobody is going to do it for you. These topics and more are covered in this episode.

Do you have a “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

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Damon is out this week, but the show rolls on as Damo, Aaron, and CS1 Burns sit down for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from Navy policy changes and leadership lessons to deployment experiences, career growth, and why Seafood Newburg somehow became part of the discussion. We discuss LTB reviews, Master Chief pay, recruiting concerns surrounding Genesis, the Murph, the new UFC event fitness requirements, PRT alternate cardio, bad day chits, the CNO's recent email on grooming standards, the absence of women selected for Admiral, the relief of an entire triad in Japan, the Warrior Toughness rollout, and changes to evaluations at terminal paygrades. CS1 Burns shares stories about growing up in Wilmington, North Carolina, dealing with the loss of a close friend in high school, his first deployment in Japan, how his views changed as he advanced in rank, and some of the most important leadership lessons he's learned throughout his career. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on radical candor, relationships between Chiefs and First Classes, why leaders should defer to expertise, why different doesn't mean wrong, why failure is sometimes necessary for growth, and this week's Do Better segment featuring a Sailor bypassing the process, a gas station "federal crime" investigation, and a few leadership lessons along the way. These and more topics are covered in this episode.

Resources & Links

No Women Promoted to Admiral
https://taskandpurpose.com/news/navy-women-promotion-2026/

Entire Triad Relieved in Japan
https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2026/06/04/navy-fires-leadership-trio-of-ship-repair-facility-in-japan/

Warrior Toughness Rollout (NAVADMIN 134/26)
https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2026/NAV26134.pdf

Periodic Evaluation Changes / Terminal Paygrade (NAVADMIN 132/26)
https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2026/NAV26132.pdf

Do you have a “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with the PTSF Podcast: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Picks of the Week:

The Checklist Manifesto – Atul Gawande
https://a.co/d/07S3X6hL

Leadership Strategy and Tactics – Jocko Willink
https://echelonfront.com/leadership-books/leadership-strategy-and-tactics/

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The guys are back with no guest and plenty to discuss. Damo recaps his recent trip and shares a few new Navy terms he picked up along the way before the conversation shifts to television, film, social media, and the impact online culture is having on military leadership. They discuss Black cinema, mental health resources, Warrior Toughness, Human Performance Optimization, E-8 and E-9 results, Memorial Day plans, and the latest developments in Admiral Robert Burke’s bribery case. The episode also features a Do Better segment, Picks of the Week, and listener questions covering disconnected leadership, driving change within organizations, and investing energy where it matters most. To close things out, Damo puts Damon and Aaron in the hot seat with a series of personal questions that lead to honest conversations about buying into the Navy, career setbacks, staying beyond 20 years, life after service, family sacrifices, and the moments they wish they could get back.

Do you have a “Do Better” that you want us to review on a future episode? Reach out at ptsfpodcast@gmail.com

Stay connected with the PTSF Podcast: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Picks of the Week:

Damo: Start with Yourself (Emma Grede) https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/start-with-yourself-emma-grede/1148547712

Damon: Kobe Bryant & The Mamba Mentality (Alex Karadzin) https://www.audible.com/pd/Kobe-Bryant-The-Mamba-Mentality-Audiobook/B0DJCJ6GGC

Aaron: Remi Adeleke | One54 Africa Podcast https://youtu.be/GZu-2l4V29k?si=Nt3jEt-b2ulGfW-s

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