In this inspiring episode of the Two Promises Podcast, we sit down with Brian Ricketts, veteran, advocate, and author of Blood, Tears, and Purple Hearts . Brian shares his mission to highlight the mental health challenges faced by veterans—especially female soldiers—and to combat the stigma that often follows service. He delves into the psychological aftermath of combat, the healing role of support animals, and the urgency of veteran advocacy. His message is clear: “If you send them, you must me...
Jun 30, 2025•39 min•Season 2Ep. 17
In the final part of our powerful three-part series with Cheyenne Zoelle, we confront the darkest chapters of her story. Cheyenne shares the trauma of multiple kidnappings, emotional and physical abuse, and the heartbreaking failures of the justice system to protect her. She reflects on the pain of being unheard, the devastating effects of psychological manipulation, and how faith, boundaries, and advocacy became the lifelines that pulled her back. This episode isn’t just about survival—it’s abo...
Jun 23, 2025•33 min•Season 2Ep. 16
In this second part of our deeply moving conversation with Cheyenne Zoelle, we explore the heartbreaking but empowering journey of recognizing and breaking free from generational trauma. Cheyenne opens up about finding herself in toxic relationships with men who mirrored the very abuse she endured from her mother—realizing she was unconsciously reliving that same cycle. With raw honesty, she shares how self-awareness, boundaries, and a commitment to healing helped her reclaim her power and begin...
Jun 16, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this emotional and powerful episode of the Two Promises Podcast, we sit down with Cheyenne Zoelle, an author and survivor who shares the raw truth of her childhood filled with abuse and neglect. From a life of pain and brokenness, Cheyenne forged a path of self-taught resilience and found purpose in advocacy and healing. Her story is a testament to courage, and this is only the beginning. 👉 This is Part 1 of a 3-part series. Stay tuned for the next two episodes to continue her journey. What ...
Jun 09, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 14
In Part 2 of this compelling conversation on the Two Promises Podcast, we continue exploring the powerful transition from military life to entrepreneurship with Juan "Gonzo" Gonzalez. He expands on essential lessons in personal security, deliberate business growth, and living a purpose-driven life. The episode dives deeper into mentorship, community engagement, and how real-world security situations have informed his unique leadership approach. If Part 1 was about identity and mindset, Part 2 is...
Jun 02, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 13
In this episode of the Two Promises Podcast, we sit down with Juan Gonzalez—known to many as "Gonzo"—a retired Navy SEAL and founder of Eagle Eye Protection. From his early life in South and Central America to his path into one of the most elite military units, Gonzo shares how mindset, identity, and resilience shaped who he is. We explore how communication, adversity, and personal growth continue to fuel his leadership both in and out of uniform. This is part one of a two-part series. Stay tune...
May 26, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this episode of the Two Promises podcast, we sit down with Joel Lambert —former Navy SEAL and star of the Discovery Channel show Man Hunt . Joel walks us through his incredible journey from elite military service to consulting and acting in Hollywood. We discuss the real-world applications of SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) training, the intense yet humorous experiences on Man Hunt, and the deeper motivations behind his book The Bug-in Guide . Joel reminds us that preparednes...
May 19, 2025•40 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this second part of our conversation with Dennis Bollier, we dive deeper into his remarkable story. Dennis opens up about his battles with adversity, the importance of mentorship, and how faith helped him through some of his darkest moments. He shares how his passion for wellness and helping others grew stronger after hitting rock bottom. This episode is a powerful reminder that reinvention is always possible—and that our greatest setbacks can often lead to our biggest breakthroughs. 👉 Misse...
May 12, 2025•35 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this first part of a two-part series, we sit down with Dennis Bollier, a man with a rich and diverse background. From his beginnings as a military veteran to becoming an airline pilot and a successful real estate entrepreneur, Dennis shares his life experiences, challenges, and the lessons he learned along the way. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, the impact of fate and luck, and the importance of networking and personal growth. Dennis’s journey is a testament to overcoming ...
May 05, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode, we meet with Dakota Wortman —military veteran, cinematographer, and storyteller. We explore his path from serving as an IT specialist in the Army to becoming a full-time filmmaker. Dakota shares the real-life struggles of pursuing film school during the pandemic, how he brought his first feature film The Cowboy Capital to life in just ten days, and what it meant to see his work on the big screen. This episode is about following your passion, trusting the messy process, and creat...
Apr 28, 2025•35 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this second installment with Chris Warnes—combat veteran, entrepreneur, and mission-driven leader—we go beyond personal growth and into purpose. Chris opens up about the origin story of The Warrior Ranch, a veteran retreat and education center built in honor of Sergeant Carlton Clark, and the deeper mission behind the movement. He takes us back to a life-altering moment in Iraq that sparked this journey—an encounter that taught him what legacy truly means. Chris reveals how loss became leader...
Apr 21, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this powerful two-part episode, we sit down with Chris Warnes—combat veteran, entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of multiple ventures—to explore growth, grit, and the power of giving back. In this episode, Chris shares his personal journey from wounded warrior to purpose-driven leader, revealing how trauma became a catalyst for transformation. We dive into the realities of transitioning from military to civilian life, building leadership outside the uniform, and how overcommitment, perfection...
Apr 14, 2025•45 min•Season 2Ep. 7
BD and Dr. Barry continue their deep dive into the challenges of the U.S. healthcare and insurance systems, focusing on the emotional and practical realities of navigating coverage, handling denials, and advocating for oneself. They explore the role of persistence, community support, and systemic reform, while highlighting how mindset, perception, and energy influence outcomes—both in health and in life. This episode weaves together personal stories, expert insights, and a call to action for lis...
Apr 07, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode, Dr. Amelie Barry sets the stage for part two, diving into the pressing issues surrounding healthcare and insurance in light of recent events. The discussion expands to personal security, cybersecurity, and practical self-defense techniques, including the importance of firearms training. Dr. Barry also shares her experience with Krav Maga as an effective self-defense method. This episode aims to empower listeners with essential knowledge and tools to navigate these critical areas...
Apr 01, 2025•27 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In the final part of our conversation with Tortugas Games co-founders Nick Raynor and Jon Micah Tyson, we take a deeper dive into the philosophy behind game design. They discuss the struggle of maintaining creative authenticity while ensuring a game is commercially viable, as well as the hard lessons learned in the business side of launching a game. From marketing challenges to the creative process behind their unique artistic style, Nick and Micah share their perspectives on what it takes to br...
Mar 24, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 4
We continue our conversation with Nick Raynor and Jon Micah Tyson, co-founders of Tortugas Games , as they share the journey of taking Red Tides: A Tale of New Caribbea from an idea to a full-fledged board game. They dive into the challenges of refining mechanics, balancing realism with fun, and the lessons they’ve learned in game publishing. Nick’s expertise in game mechanics and business operations, combined with Jon Micah’s background in art and storytelling, brings a unique approach to board...
Mar 17, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode, we kick off the first of a three-part conversation with Nick Raynor and Jon Micah Tyson, co-founders of Tortugas Games . They share their journey from being longtime friends to developing Red Tides: A Tale of New Caribbea —an immersive pirate-themed tabletop experience that blends history, strategy, and storytelling. Meet Our Guests Nick Raynor – A game designer and entrepreneur with over 18 years of experience in interactive entertainment, having worked at Rockstar Games , Beth...
Mar 10, 2025•31 min•Season 1Ep. 2
In this episode, BD shares a heartfelt update on his health journey, discussing the challenges he faced in accessing healthcare, the emotional turmoil that ensued, and the lessons learned through recovery. He emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the need for a supportive community, while also expressing gratitude for the support received during his struggles. The conversation highlights the complexities of navigating the healthcare system, particularly for veterans, and the resilience ...
Mar 07, 2025•30 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In this episode, BD starts out by recognizing the newly signed federal holiday, Juneteenth, and explained the essence of this celebration, honoring the African American heritage. He continues on sharing some principles from a book about the Hawaiian forgiveness ritual that he wants to keep improving on. He also honors how the African Americans have shaped the United States’ whiskey industry as he talks about Nathan Nearest Green and Mrs. Fawn Weaver. So, listen in now, and let us give honor as w...
Jun 21, 2021•11 min•Season 1Ep. 37
In this Memorial Day episode, BD dedicates this time to honor and celebrate the lives of an incredible couple, Master Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Reinold Lloyd “Nick“ Benzschawel and Mary Alice Benzschawel. BD had the privilege to meet the couple through their son, Spicy Nick the Pirate who sought a life of adventure away from the sea. Get to know them in this episode and take a moment to honor their legacy as patriots and Special Operations pioneers. Please, raise a glass in honor of them and al...
May 31, 2021•21 min•Season 1Ep. 36
In celebration of Women’s History Month, this episode talks about the women in the history of Greece and how they helped shape the Greco-Persian war. BD talks about the epic saga of the 300 Spartan Warriors fighting the Persian invaders at Thermopylae, and explores the state of the sea campaign at Salamis. He heroes two women and shares a story of the swirling sea. Tune in now and listen to this exciting saga and be reminded of the power that resides inside of each of us. MENTIONS https://two-pr...
Mar 29, 2021•18 min•Season 1Ep. 35
In this episode, BD takes us in a more relaxed conversation sprinkled with humor and showing how humor can greatly help people cope and ease out from stress brought by a challenging situation. He also shares a great book that depicts the therapeutic power of humor. Tune in now and take this time to just sit back and relax while learning bits of helpful tips. MENTIONS https://two-promises.com/ Gates of Fire , book by Steven Pressfield https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inguinal-hernia...
Mar 22, 2021•29 min•Season 1Ep. 34
In this episode, we have a special guest from last month back, Julie of Renew You Mobile Massage. Julie is back to share a little bit about her experience as a massage therapist from a different angle. She will share good tips and knowledge that will help to prepare yourself when you’re considering massage therapy as part of your self-care routine. You will surely enjoy this episode so go ahead and click play now! MENTIONS https://two-promises.com/ Swedish Massage SHOW NOTES [00:00:56] Greetings...
Mar 15, 2021•30 min•Season 1Ep. 33
In this episode, we have a woman who empowers others to gain more confidence and make the best decisions for their lives. BD is joined by Dr. Dee Ann who has 34 years of experience in the field of education. She taught school for several years, and then became an assistant principal of a middle school, then K3 principal of a school, and then in the last decade, she was a district office administrator, the Director of Curriculum in Instruction Assessments. Together with BD, Dr. Dee Ann talks abou...
Mar 08, 2021•46 min•Season 1Ep. 32
In this episode, BD is joined by a special guest, Momma Cheryl in a beautiful conversation about life and lessons learned as Momma Cheryl went through different experiences as a mom and a person who has seen lives being lived meaningfully as well as some that fell apart. Hop right into this conversation and gain nuggets of wisdom and understand the power of appreciating the beauty that’s born in a tragedy as well as the simple beauty around us. MENTIONS https://two-promises.com/ Meditations by M...
Mar 01, 2021•28 min•Season 1Ep. 30
In this episode, as BD continues with his series on interviewing successful women in different industries, we have an exciting guest, Nor Pangulima. Nor is the podcast editor/manager of Two Promises Podcast. Yes! We get to have this awesome chance to get to know her all the way from the Philippines. So, you better tune in now and gain wisdom in the podcasting industry and enjoy knowing a little bit of Nor’s culture and her success stories. MENTIONS https://two-promises.com/ Kopiko Brown Coffee S...
Feb 22, 2021•37 min•Season 1Ep. 29
In this Valentine's Day Special episode, we are honored to be with an incredible lady boss, Magda Khalifa. Magda is the founder of the first veteran owned luxury fragrance line, Triangle Fragrance. She is also a best-selling author, speaker, and a US Army Combat Veteran. You will get to know Magda through her experiences while learning the beauty and power of your own inner strength as you face challenges and grow through the struggles in life. Magda also shares the essence of being confident in...
Feb 14, 2021•34 min•Season 1Ep. 28
In this episode, we are joined by a passionate entrepreneur and totally amazing person, Julie of Renew You Mobile Massage. Julie is a licensed massage therapist from the Great White North - Ontario, Canada. Julie graciously shares her journey as a massage therapist and the experiences that helped her build and grow her business from 5 to almost 80 clients now. She also gives advice to those who want to know more or start out their massage therapy journey, and some quick tips for your self-care. ...
Feb 08, 2021•27 min•Season 1Ep. 27
In this episode, BD sheds light on the topic of fear and breaks it down for you as he shares some questions that will help you ponder on, challenge your beliefs, and gain understanding on how to deal with and eventually overcome those deathly phobias as well as your day to day “Real” fears. Listen in now and take this time to reflect and dig deeper into your beliefs and feelings about different things and make a step toward freedom and peace. MENTIONS https://two-promises.com/ SHOW NOTES [00:00:...
Feb 01, 2021•25 min•Season 1Ep. 26
In this episode, BD expounds on a leadership concept, “If you break it, build it.” You will understand the value of responsibility and accountability in the daily activities and interactions you do as well as in your work. You will learn principles on how to effectively handle tensions and difficult situations especially when you’re dealing with other people or services. Make sure to tune in now and get the benefits of the insights that BD generously shares with you. MENTIONS https://two-promise...
Jan 25, 2021•32 min•Season 1Ep. 25
