Great Big Podcast - podcast cover

Great Big Podcast

U.S. Army Garrison Fort Cavazos Public Affairsfortcavazospao.podbean.com
The Great Place, also known as Fort Cavazos, needs a Great Big Podcast. And this is it! This podcast seeks to shed a light on what Fort Cavazos has to offer its Soldiers, family members, civilians and contractors. It peels back the layer that separates the U.S. Army from our civilian family to inform listeners. And of course, it provides a weekly source of entertainment with monthly feature segments of ”Book & Movie of the Month” and ”Traveling Soldier.” Episodes vary every week as Fort Cavazos offers a variety of services and hosts a multitude of amazing personnel. Listeners can expect Soldier features, an illuminating light on directorates across the installation, and a lot of laughs from the co-hosts.
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Episodes

Unveiling the Cavazos Connector: A New Era of Base Transit

This week on the "Great Big Podcast," we explore the Cavazos Connector, Fort Cavazos' innovative transit solution. Learn how this program, featuring micro transit vehicles and circulator buses, offers on-demand, Uber-like services to enhance base mobility. Our discussion with experts from the Hill Country Transit District - Central Texas HOP and the Army Field Support Battalion - Cavazos highlights the program's benefits for service members and their families, ensuring convenient transportation ...

Feb 22, 202440 minSeason 4Ep. 8

III Armored Corps Chief of Staff Rocks Out on the Great Big Podcast

The crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with the III Armored Corps Chief of Staff, Col. Chad Foster, to discuss his passion for playing the guitar. Col. Foster brought in his Gibson Les Paul and amplifier to play a few musical selections, discuss how his passion for music came about and gave advice to our listeners who might be interested in learning how to play guitar themselves. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosa...

Feb 15, 202455 minSeason 4Ep. 7

The Fort Cavazos Religious Support Office provides much more than just religious support

This week the crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with chaplains from the Fort Cavazos Religious Support Office. The chaplains highlighted the Chaplain Family Life Training Center and the many cutting edge techniques and services the center offers to support the Fort Cavazos community. Listen to learn more about the resources and services the CFLTC offers Soldiers, families and civilians. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fort...

Feb 08, 202436 minSeason 4Ep. 6

”Borderline”: A Veteran’s story of duty, transition and transformation

In this episode of "The Great Big Podcast," we're privileged to sit down with the incredible Vincent Vargas. His journey is truly remarkable. Vincent is not only an actor but also a writer, producer, entrepreneur, and military veteran. Join us as we dive into his powerful book, "Borderline: Defending the Home Front," where he sheds light on the Border Patrol's crucial role and emphasizes the importance of wellness during life transitions, particularly for fellow veterans. We'll also explore Vinc...

Feb 01, 202433 minSeason 4Ep. 5

Inside the 3rd Cavalry’s Pre-Deployment Town Hall and South Korea Mission

On this episode of the Great Big Podcast, we have a candid discussion with Col. Jeffrey Barta and Command Sgt. Maj. Mikeal A. McInroy from the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, exploring their military journey and the upcoming deployment to South Korea. We talk about the regiment's deployment fair and town hall before their deployment to South Korea. Listen as they share insights on leadership, the impact of service on personal life, and the future of military engagements. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com ...

Jan 25, 202432 minSeason 5Ep. 4

STIs: Let’s talk about it

Sexually Transmitted Infections, or STIs, are on the rise and though it's a topic that carries a negative stigma and is rarely discussed in public, CRDAMC Army Public Health Nursing officials assert it's time to have an open and honest dialogue. The crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with representatives from APHN to have a candid discussion about what STIs are, who is at risk, methods to protect yourself and how to get tested. Please be advised that this recording contains sensitive content...

Jan 18, 202447 minSeason 5Ep. 3

American Red Cross: A beacon for those in crisis

This week, the crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with representatives from the American Red Cross to discuss the organization's resources and services, how the more than century-old staple provides support for the unique needs of the military community and the importance of volunteers to the organization's mission. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr...

Jan 11, 202443 minSeason 5Ep. 2

Garrison commander talks plans for Cavazos in 2024

The crew of the Great Big Podcast kicked off the new year with a visit from U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Cavazos Commander Col. Lakicia Stokes. Stokes discussed the great strides made in the previous year to improve overall quality of life at the Great Place for Soldiers and their families, her plans to build upon that momentum going into the new year and what the Fort Cavazos community can expect moving into 2024. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosa...

Jan 04, 202437 minSeason 5Ep. 1

The Garrison Religious Support Office is here to help during the holidays and year-around.

The holidays can be both joyous and overwhelming, but the Fort Cavazos Garrison Religious Support Office can help manage the hustle and bustle of the season. The crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with Garrison Chaplain (Col.) Luis Kruger, and Garrison NCOIC Sgt. 1st Class Kendra Brandon to talk about the services and resources the organization provides, ways to manage stress during the holidays and the importance of quality time, maintaining traditions and even creating new ones. SUBMIT : F...

Dec 14, 202342 minSeason 4Ep. 50

UFC President Dana White visits Fort Cavazos

The crew of the Great Big Podcast took the show on the road this week and sat down with UFC President Dana White live from the Fort Cavazos Main Exchange. White was in town for the UFC Lightweight bout in Austin and stopped by the Great Place for a meet and greet with his fans in uniform. Listen as he shares his unwavering support for the military and his philosophy on life and success. We will also talk about some of our favorite Traveling Soldier destinations in Texas that you can get out and ...

Dec 07, 202347 minSeason 4Ep. 49

Fisher House: Fort Cavazos’ Hidden Gem

This week, the crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with Candice Ualesi, business manager at the Fort Cavazos Fisher House, to talk about how the establishment, affectionately considered the installation's "hidden gem", supports service members undergoing medical treatment and their families. Listen to learn more about the Fort Cavazos Fisher House and how it provides all the comforts of home. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @...

Nov 30, 202340 minSeason 4Ep. 48

The Fort Cavazos Armed Forces Wellness Center promotes health and wellness

This week the crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with representatives from the Fort Cavazos Armed Forces Wellness Center to talk about the variety of services the center offers to help military members stay healthy in mind, body and spirit. The center offers services from body composition testing to stress management education and health and wellness classes. Listen to learn more! SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazos...

Nov 22, 202339 minSeason 4Ep. 47

Thousands Worth of Scholarship Dollars Available

This week, the Great Big Podcast crew is talking cold, hard, cash, in the form of merit based scholarships, that is. The Fort Cavazos Family Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to high school seniors and military spouses who are beneficiaries of active duty, veterans, and Gold Star families. Learn all about the various scholarships available and how to apply. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained...

Nov 16, 202336 minSeason 4Ep. 46

Army Ten-Miler Team

The crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with Chaplain (Maj.) Luke Basler and Staff Sgt. Peter Koskey of the Fort Cavazos Army Ten-Miler Team to talk about their stellar performance at this year's Army Ten-Miler event in D.C. , how the team trains and prepares for competition and their shared passion for running. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "G...

Nov 09, 202340 minSeason 4Ep. 45

The Dos and Don’ts of PCS moving

This week, the crew of the Great Big Podcast sits down with the representatives from the Fort Cavazos Personal Property Transportation Division to discuss the process of completing a successful permanent change of station and what service members need to know to make their next PCS move as seamless as possible. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "Gun M...

Nov 02, 202335 minSeason 4Ep. 44

Energy Action Month inspires conservation

Join the crew of the Great Big Podcast as we sit down with Christine Luciano and Amber Dankert from Fort Cavazos DPW to talk about Energy Action Month, ways to conserve energy and events and activities coming up on post. Listen to hear more about how to conserve energy at the office and at home, how to save money and establish conservation best practices everyone can do to support the environment. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER :...

Oct 26, 202332 minSeason 4Ep. 43

A Day Just for Retirees: Retiree Appreciation Day

The 48th Annual Retiree Appreciation Day will take place Oct. 28 here at Fort Cavazos. Learn all about the upcoming event, what it means, why it happens and what will be taking place in this week's edition of the podcast. The opening ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. Oct. 28 at Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, including a golf tournament Oct. 27 at The Courses of Clear Creek, to draft wills with the III Armored C...

Oct 19, 202333 minSeason 4Ep. 42

The Fort Cavazos USO is a home away from home

Join the crew of the Great Big Podcast as we sit down with Benjamin Griffin, center operations and program manager for the Fort Cavazos USO, to talk about what the USO offers, events and activities available for Soldiers and their families and what makes the Fort Cavazos USO a home away from home. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "Gun Metal Grey" - D...

Oct 12, 202332 minSeason 4Ep. 41

Breaking the silence of domestic violence and spreading awareness

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month, this week, the crew of the Great Big Podcast sat down with Rhonda Shabazz, victim advocate program manager for the Fort Cavazos Family Advocacy Program and City of Killeen Mayor Debbie Nash-King to discuss the signs of domestic violence, how to recognize them and what support services and resources are available. Mayor Nash-King recounts her personal experience with domestic violence and her journey to becoming a survivor. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gm...

Oct 05, 20231 hr 16 minSeason 4Ep. 40

It pays to be the BOSS: Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers

This week the Great Big Podcast sits down with the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program to discuss community involvement, future plans for the program and what it takes to become a member. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "Gun Metal Grey" - Delicious Allstars; "Learning By Doing" - Niklas Olovso. This podcast is a production of U.S. Army ...

Sep 28, 202322 minSeason 4Ep. 39

Garrison commander talks family and career on the Great Big Podcast

The Great Big Podcast had the opportunity to sit down with U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Cavazos commander, Col. Lakicia Stokes. Stokes provided a behind the scenes glimpse into her upbringing in Alabama, sharing how her military career began with inspiration from her older brother, the importance of family and her passion for mentoring young Soldiers. Listen to hear more about the new commander and her plans and initiatives for the Garrison. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarm...

Sep 21, 202328 minSeason 4Ep. 38

Rev Up Your Road Safety IQ : Vital Traffic Tips

In this week's episode of The Great Big Podcast, join host Samantha Harms as she takes the show on the road to discuss an essential topic that affects us all: road safety. Sam sits down with Captain Eric Yahnel, the supervisor for the traffic section with the law enforcement division for the Directorate of Emergency Services. Captain Yahnel's mission is to protect and educate Soldiers, residents, family members, workers, and visitors about the importance of responsible driving. To report missing...

Sep 14, 202329 minSeason 4Ep. 37

You Are The Light in Somebody’s Life: Suicide Prevention Month​

This week, the Great Big Podcast features the Fort Cavazos Suicide Prevention Program managers. They are on to share about Suicide Prevention Month, why it is critical to talk about suicide, what to do if you feel suicidal or know someone who is, and important resources. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "Gun Metal Grey" - Delicious Allstars; "Learnin...

Sep 07, 202348 minSeason 4Ep. 36

Leading From The Front: A 1st Sgt. Plan To Reenlist As Many Soldiers as possible

Join the crew as we talk with 1st Sgt. Amanda Guerra's impactful guidance inspired a handful of her Soldiers to extend their service. We learn the steps she took to keep those Soldiers in uniform and how she hopes it keeps and brings others into the United States Army. Listen in as we dive deep into these soldiers' stories, exploring the military community's profound bonds, shared aspirations, and unwavering spirit. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortca...

Aug 31, 202346 minSeason 4Ep. 35

The Federal Voting Assistance Program: What It Is and Why It Matters

In this episode of the Great Big Podcast, Capt. Adam West, the installation voting assistance officer at Fort Cavazos, joins the hosts to delve into the world of the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP). This essential program guarantees that service members, their eligible families, and overseas citizens remain informed about their voting rights and are equipped with the tools and resources to exercise that right, no matter where in the world they are. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACE...

Aug 24, 202334 minSeason 4Ep. 34

Service Style: A Conversation with ODYD & Fort Cavzos Spouses Club

In this week's episode, join our crew as they sit down with representatives from Operation Deploy Your Dress (ODYD) and the Fort Cavzos Spouses Club. Discover the empowering mission behind ODYD, a non-profit organization managed by dedicated military spouses with a mission to ease the financial burden of attending military formal functions—particularly for junior service members. Plus, get an inside look at the vibrant community that is the Fort Cavzos Spouses Club, a must-join group that foster...

Aug 17, 202327 minSeason 4Ep. 33

Fresh Start, Fresh Superintendent – School’s Back in Session

Join us on the Great Big Podcast as we delve deep into the captivating journey of Dr. Jo Ann Fey and her appointment as the first female superintendent of the Killeen Independent School District, the biggest school district that services Fort Cavazos With over two decades in the Texas educational landscape, she has tackled challenges head-on, turned around underperforming schools and set high standards for educators and students alike. We learn her vision for the partnership with Fort Cavazos, t...

Aug 10, 202344 minSeason 4Ep. 32

Leading From The Front: The Role Of A First Sergeant

Join the crew as they dive into an engaging conversation with a First Sergeant from the 1st Cavalry Division on this episode of The Great Big Podcast. They explore the essential role of a First Sergeant in the Army, discussing leadership, noncommissioned officers, and everything you need to know to thrive in the military. Listen in as they share personal stories, lessons, and valuable insights into building strong, cohesive teams and fostering high morale within the unit. Discover how leadership...

Aug 03, 202330 minSeason 4Ep. 31

Housing Service Office Becomes ”MVP” During Peek PCS Season

As permit change of station season surges and housing queues lengthen, this week's podcast peeks into the Military Value Program, or MVP, which assists Soldiers and their families with affordable temporary living arrangements upon arrival in Central Texas. The MVP's playbook reveals how the strategic use of local hotels, Airbnb, and decked-out corporate apartments keep wallets happy while making moving less of a battle. Hop on board, and let's uncover how the MVP is making waves in military hous...

Jul 27, 202329 minSeason 4Ep. 30

U.S. Army Antiterrorism Program: Why It matters and how you can help

This week's episode highlights the Army Antiterrorism Program, where members of the Fort Cavazos Antiterrorism office shed light on how everyone in the community can contribute to preventing terrorist attacks. SUBMIT : FortCavazosPAO@gmail.com FACEBOOK : fortcavazosarmy INSTAGRAM : @fortcavazosarmy TWITTER : @fortcavazosarmy All music obtained, royalty-free, through Filter by Songtradr : "Gun Metal Grey" - Delicious Allstars; "Learning By Doing" - Niklas Olovso. This podcast is a production of U...

Jul 20, 202320 minSeason 4Ep. 29
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