DTD PODCAST - podcast cover

DTD PODCAST

My name is Dustin Kelly, but everybody calls me DJ. I am former Army, serving as both a Forward Observer and a Military Police Officer. I have spent the last 16.5 years as a Police Officer and Detective in a large metropolitan Police Department. Throughout my career I have learned two things. 1. Everybody has a story to tell, and 2. The Best Stories Are True. This is the DTD Podcast.
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Episodes

Episode 217: From "Wookie" to Guardian: Green Beret Travis Wilson on Loss, Ego, and Healing the Brain

What happens when the legend of “Wookie”—the 6’3” Green Beret who outworks everyone, jumps out of planes for fun, and lives hard on and off the battlefield—collides with reality, loss, and a broken body? In this episode, Travis “Wookie” Wilson sits down with DJ to unpack a 21-year Army career, including 13 years in Special Forces, and the moments that nearly destroyed him—and then remade him.We walk through:-Growing up the son of an Air Force pararescueman and an Air Force nurse-Being immature, ...

Nov 27, 20251 hr 51 min

Episode 216: Byron Russell "From CIF Hits to Startup Grit"

Byron Russell didn’t run from hard things—he ran toward them. Abused childhood. Infantry to Special Forces CIF in 5th Group. Afghanistan’s invasion, Iraq’s hardest nights, and the moral calculus of war. Then the toughest chapter: coming home, grieving, and unlearning the habits of combat to become a better dad, husband, and builder. Today he leads Black Armor Guns and Greybeard Syndicate, teaches drone defense and land navigation, and shares the lessons that kept him alive—and honest.We talk sel...

Oct 24, 20252 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 216

Episode 215: Mike 'Mac' McNamara“The Lie About ‘Getting Over It’ | A Marine’s Truth on Trauma, Faith, and Redemption”

When combat veteran and Marine officer Mike “Mac” McNamara came home from war, he faced a new battlefield — trauma, family tragedy, and the broken systems meant to help him heal. Through pain, he discovered purpose, creating the Post-Traumatic Winning program and authoring From Trauma to Joy. In this episode, Mac joins DJ to talk about the truth behind healing, survivor’s guilt, faith, leadership, and learning to fight for joy again. #FromTraumaToJoy #PostTraumaticWinning #MentalFitness #DTDpodc...

Oct 10, 20252 hr 8 min

Episode 214 Joshua Shores MARSOC "Haunted by Ramadi"

What happens when the war never ends?Marine combat veteran Josh Shores sits down with us to share one of the rawest and most vulnerable conversations you’ll ever hear about mental health, survivor’s guilt, and the price of war. At 19 years old, Josh was thrown into Iraq’s deadliest battles in Ramadi. He came home alive, but not whole. Haunted by the men he lost, by the decisions he made, and by the weight of combat trauma, Josh spiraled into anger, alcohol, and multiple suicide attempts. In this...

Oct 03, 20252 hr

Episode 213: Chad White "Blood On My Hands, A Green Beret Medic's Story"

Chad White spent over a decade as a Green Beret medic, carrying the impossible dual burden of saving lives while taking them in combat. From failed attempts at BUD/S, to surviving an insider attack that claimed his brother Roberto “Tico” Skel, Chad’s story is one of sacrifice, resilience, and healing. In this raw conversation, he opens up about the cost of war, moral injury, and finding purpose beyond the beret.🎧 Full interview on Dynamic Tales Delivered Podcast.🔗 Subscribe: https://www.youtub...

Sep 26, 20252 hr 18 min

Episode 212: Dane "Dutch" Van Oosten - On Combat, Numbness, and Redemption

Marine infantry veteran Dane “Dutch” Van Oosten unpacks first contact in Iraq, the numb years that followed, and the moment he chose life over darkness. Watch for hard-won tools to climb out: routine, gratitude, and killing the “negative me.”#USMC #Veterans #MentalHealth #Resilience #PTG #IraqWar #Brotherhood #Recovery #Leadership #DTDPodcastCHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS AT THE LINKS BELOWNOMADIC RESEARCH: https://nomadicresearch.com/HATCHET BREWING: https://hatchetbrewing.com/Stay connected and never ...

Sep 11, 20251 hr 39 minSeason 212Ep. 212

Episode 211: From Green Beret to Medical Retirement | Nicholas Allen’s Story of Resilience

Nicholas Allen’s journey from aspiring Green Beret to navigating medical retirement is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and rebuilding life after the military. From the grueling challenges of Special Forces training to the lasting impact of traumatic brain injury, Nicholas shares the raw truth about military service, mental health, and finding purpose beyond the battlefield. 👉 In this episode:What it takes to be a Green Beret The realities of Special Forces training Overcoming traumatic brain ...

Sep 04, 20251 hr 56 min

Episode 210: Ivan F. Ingraham "MARSOC RAIDER"

In this conversation, Ivan Ingraham shares his journey from a military upbringing to becoming a Marine Raider, reflecting on the emotional weight of service, the impact of 9/11, and the complexities of war. He discusses the evolution of MARSOC, the challenges faced in combat, and the lessons learned from his experiences in Afghanistan. Ivan emphasizes the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of understanding the realities of military service. In this conversation, Ivan F. Ingrah...

Aug 29, 20252 hr 17 minSeason 1Ep. 210

Episode 209: Eric Gilmet "Court-Martialed by the System "The Untold Story of the MARSOC 3"

In this conversation, Eric Gilmet shares his journey from a decorated military career to the legal battles he faced as part of the MarSoc 3. He discusses the importance of player safety in sports, reflects on his childhood influences, and the emotional toll of military service. Eric recounts his experiences in combat, the incident involving Rick Rodriguez, and the subsequent legal ramifications. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the significance of camaraderie, personal accountability, an...

Aug 22, 20252 hr 6 min

Episode 208: Sean Murphy "Naval Special Warfare Development Group"

In this conversation, Sean Murphy shares his incredible journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL. He discusses the influence of his mother, the importance of resilience, and the sense of belonging he found in the military. Sean reflects on his experiences in BUD/S training, the grueling Hell Week, and the camaraderie among SEALs. He emphasizes the lessons learned from overcoming adversity and the significance of teamwork in achieving greatness. Sean's story is a testament to ...

Aug 15, 20252 hr 29 minSeason 1Ep. 208

Episode 207: Derrick McManus " Australia Special Tasks and Rescue"

In this conversation, Derrick McManus shares his incredible journey from a young boy inspired by his brother to becoming a police officer and eventually a member of the Special Task and Rescue Group. He discusses the challenges and experiences he faced in law enforcement, including a life-altering incident where he was shot 14 times during a high-risk warrant execution. Derrick emphasizes the importance of resilience, accountability, and personal growth throughout his career, providing insights ...

Aug 08, 20252 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 207

Episode 206: Kent Solheim "Green Beret/ Operation Volcano 2"

In this conversation, Colonel Kent Solheim shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leader in the Special Forces. He discusses his motivations for joining the military, the pivotal moments in his career, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. Colonel Solheim reflects on the impact of combat experiences on his perspective of life and the value of human existence, culminating in a life-changing injury during Operation Volcano 2. In this conversati...

Aug 01, 20252 hr 9 minSeason 1Ep. 206

Episode 205: Joey "B" Brackett "Navy SEAL, Brotherhood, Battles, and Becoming Whole"

In this conversation, Joey B shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL. He discusses the meaning of brotherhood, the impact of loss, and the importance of mentorship in the military. Joey reflects on his friendship with Brandon, the training process, and the realities of deployment, providing insights into the mental and emotional challenges faced by service members. In this conversation, JoeyB shares his experiences as a Navy SEAL, discussing the complexities of na...

Jul 25, 20253 hr 14 minSeason 1Ep. 205

Episode 204: Tom Marble "DEA FAST TEAMS IN AFGHANISTAN"

In this conversation, Tom Marble shares his extensive career in law enforcement, detailing his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a DEA agent. He discusses the early days of tackling methamphetamine production in Phoenix, the evolution of his career, and the significant operations he participated in, including counter-terrorism efforts in Afghanistan. Marble emphasizes the importance of disrupting drug funding to combat terrorism and shares insights into the complexities of drug tr...

Jul 11, 20251 hr 43 minSeason 1Ep. 204

Episode 203: Ajay James "Navy SEAL, Actor, Model, All Around Patriot"

In this captivating episode, Ajay James shares his extraordinary journey from Trinidad to becoming a Navy SEAL. He reflects on his challenging childhood, the impact of his father's tumultuous relationships, and how martial arts became a refuge from bullying. Ajay's unexpected modeling career provided financial support for his martial arts training in Thailand, leading him to face the rigorous challenges of Navy SEAL training. Throughout his journey, Ajay emphasizes the importance of resilience, ...

Jul 04, 20252 hr 29 minSeason 1Ep. 203

Episode 202: Tom Spooner 82nd Airborne, Green Beret, Delta Force

In this conversation, Tom Spooner shares his remarkable journey from a soldier in combat to a voice for healing among veterans. He discusses his early life, the challenges he faced growing up, and how his military career shaped him. Spooner opens up about his struggles with alcoholism, the turning point of getting sober, and the importance of therapy in his emotional healing. He also delves into the complexities of moral grief and the cost of war, emphasizing the need for open discussions about ...

Jun 20, 20252 hr 29 minSeason 1Ep. 202

Episode 201: Chris "Dutch" Moyer "Delta Force, Discipline, Just Dutch"

-SUMMARY- In this episode of the DTD Podcast, DJ talks with Chris Dutch Moyer, a 31-year Army veteran and Delta Force legend. They discuss Dutch's military career, leadership experiences, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Dutch shares insights on the importance of resilience, the impact of military life on personal relationships, and the culture of excellence within the Ranger Regiment and Delta Force. The conversation highlights the complexities of military service and the p...

Jun 13, 20251 hr 56 minSeason 1Ep. 201

Episode 200: Tyler Grey "Forged in Chaos

-SUMMARY- In this conversation, Tyler Grey shares his powerful journey from a troubled childhood marked by neglect and violence to becoming a member of Delta Force. He discusses the importance of vulnerability in storytelling, the impact of family dynamics on self-worth, and the struggles of transitioning from military life to civilian life. Tyler reflects on his experiences in combat, the decisions he faced, and the profound effects of his injuries, ultimately emphasizing the ongoing journey of...

Jun 05, 20252 hr 29 minSeason 1Ep. 200

Episode 199: Josh Martin 160th SOAR Pilot/Invictus Games

-CHAPTERS-00:00 Introduction to Josh Martin's Journey02:44 Early Life and Influences05:40 Impact of Family Dynamics08:35 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges11:23 Pursuing Military Aspirations14:34 West Point Experience17:15 Transitioning to Military Life20:28 Leadership Development at West Point23:21 Career Path in Aviation26:15 The Kiowa Helicopter Experience29:25 Transition to the 160th SOAR32:20 Assessment and Acceptance into the 160th35:28 Training and Challenges Ahead41:17 The Weight of Le...

May 16, 20252 hr 14 min

Episode 198:TOMMY RICHARDSON “I SHOULDN'T BE ALIVE—HOW PAIN, WAR, and a BRAIN TUMOR MADE ME WHOLE”

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction to Resilience 10:59 Overcoming Low Self-Worth 11:48 The Turning Point: A Moment of Crisis 16:45 Military Journey Begins 24:52 The Marine Experience and Identity 36:35 The Desire for Deployment 37:39 Experiences in Korea and the Reality of Combat 38:48 The Harsh Realities of Haiti 41:00 The Smell of War and Its Impact 42:58 The Challenges of Deployment 44:40 The Complexity of Hearts and Minds 53:02 Trust Issues in Combat 54:27 The Bonds Formed in War 56:46 Transition...

May 09, 20252 hr 17 min

Episode 197: Mark Dallas "The HERO Cop Who Stopped a School Shooting"

-SUMMARY- In this conversation, Mark Dallas shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Dixon, Illinois, to a distinguished 27-year career in law enforcement. He reflects on the profound impact of his upbringing, the lessons learned from his family, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including stopping an active shooter at Dixon High School. Dallas discusses the evolution of policing, the challenges faced in different communities, and his experiences in establishin...

May 02, 20251 hr 49 minSeason 1Ep. 197

Episode 196: Ty Smith "Navy SEAL Finding Light in Dark Times: Ty Smith's Experience"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction and Updates on Ty Smith 03:02 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth 06:01 The Impact of Divorce and Co-Parenting 08:59 Spiritual Awakening and Personal Transformation 12:02 Reflections on Military Experiences and Faith 18:13 Lessons from the Military and Bravery 20:59 Fatherhood and Breaking the Cycle 23:56 The Role of Spirituality in Parenting 30:03 Confronting the Reality of War and Morality 40:52 Understanding Insecurity and Self-Love 43:14 The Purpose Behind...

Apr 18, 20251 hr 41 minSeason 1Ep. 196

Episode 195: Clint Bruce "Navy SEAL from the Ball Field, Battlefield, Board Room, and the Breakfast Table

- CHAPTERS- 00:00 The Journey of Relationships and Growth 03:48 Navigating Life's Challenges and Lessons Learned 06:41 The Impact of Family and Fatherhood 09:31 The Role of Humility and Self-Awareness 12:45 The Importance of Process and Learning 15:32 Balancing Life's Maps: Family, Career, and Self 18:34 Understanding Balance Beyond Time 21:37 The Power of Perspective and Experience 32:13 Reps Over Time: A New Approach to Balance 35:07 The Importance of Defining Goals in Relationships 39:37 Unde...

Apr 11, 20251 hr 35 minSeason 1Ep. 195

Episode 194: Nate Cornacchia: "Green Beret/Valhalla VFT

=CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:53 The Journey to Becoming a Green Beret 05:49 Life Experiences and Their Impact 09:08 Family Legacy and Military Heritage 11:51 The Role of Purpose in Life 14:50 Navigating Personal Challenges 18:03 The Importance of Storytelling 20:57 Reflections on Military Service and Legacy 28:10 The Journey to Special Forces 32:20 Overcoming Personal Challenges 36:51 The Reality of Combat 42:45 Integrity in the Military 50:08 Exposing Stolen Valor 57:11 The D...

Apr 04, 20252 hr 5 min

Episode 193: Andrew Impson "Ranger, Green Beret, Security Specialist"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction to Andrew Impson's Military Journey 06:56 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Careers 12:34 Experiences in Iraq: First Impressions and Realities 18:42 Reflections on Military Responsibility and Autonomy 22:42 Lessons Learned from Deployments and Their Implications 24:45 Comparing American Democracy with Foreign Cultures 28:02 The Role of Protests and Civil Rights in America 38:52 The Role of Useful Idiots in Protests 40:38 Career Reflections and the Drive to Serve 41:23 ...

Mar 21, 20251 hr 53 minSeason 1Ep. 193

Episode 192: AJ Jackson "A Green Beret With a Story to Tell"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:12 Military Journey: Air Force to National Guard 09:11 Becoming a Green Beret 15:06 Personal Life and Support System 19:51 Navigating Criticism: The Response to Controversial Opinions 24:14 The Consequences of Public Scrutiny in the Veteran Community 26:46 The Weight of Memory: Truth and Accountability 28:22 The Value of Authenticity in Military Stories 29:45 The First Mission: Preparing for Red Wings 31:49 The Emotional Journey: Anxiety and Respon...

Mar 14, 20252 hr 6 minSeason 1Ep. 192

Episode 191: Travis Worlock "A Green Beret With a Story to Tell"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Military Background 03:00 The Impact of Military School on Leadership Development 05:53 Camaraderie and Teamwork in Military Training 08:53 Group Punishment: A Double-Edged Sword 12:02 Cultural Differences in Military Operations 14:46 Transitioning from Enlisted to Officer 18:00 The Importance of NCO and Officer Collaboration 20:46 Real-Life Examples of Leadership Challenges 24:14 Understanding Different Military Cultures 26:50 Personal Experiences...

Mar 07, 20251 hr 55 minSeason 1Ep. 191

Episode 190: Trey Lindsey "DEVGRU Navy SEAL"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 From Service to Empowerment: Trey Lindsey's Journey 05:22 Generational Differences in Military Communication 09:51 The Path to Becoming a Navy SEAL 15:33 The Transition from Trainee to Team Member 22:13 Navigating Leadership and Team Dynamics 26:23 Balancing Personal Life and Military Career 32:16 Cherishing Life After Combat Experiences 35:24 Transitioning to Development Group: Mindset and Challenges 37:24 Deployment Differences: SEAL Team 4 vs. Development Group 38:48 Preparat...

Feb 28, 20251 hr 40 minSeason 1Ep. 190

Episode 189: Jason Morrison USMC Force Recon "I Am the Dragon "

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction to Jason Morrison's Journey 03:09 Growing Up in Indonesia: A Unique Perspective 08:26 The Courage of a Missionary Life 13:02 Family Influence and the Drive for Service 17:22 Transitioning to Military Life: A Culture Shock 27:22 Becoming Elite: The Path of a Recon Marine 37:59 The Balance Between Grind and Mental Health 40:35 The Burden of Service and Self-Recognition 42:44 The Dynamics of Training and Selection 49:25 The Evolution of Identity in the Marines 53:55 Th...

Feb 21, 20251 hr 59 minSeason 1Ep. 189

Episode 188: Philip Tuttle "A Cold War Green Beret in Berlin"

-CHAPTERS- 00:00 Introduction to Philip Tuttle's Military Journey 02:39 The Cold War Era and Special Forces in Berlin 08:33 Personal Motivations and Family Influence on Military Career 11:49 Transitioning to Special Forces Selection 21:45 The Global Military Landscape in the Late 1970s 25:00 Tensions and Military Readiness During the Cold War 29:37 Crisis in Berlin: The Art Nicholson Incident 32:17 Iranian Hostage Crisis: Standby and Alert 35:40 The 1980s: Tensions Rise with Reaganomics 38:47 Te...

Feb 14, 20251 hr 35 minSeason 1Ep. 188
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