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Ep 350- SERE Specialist, Ultra Runner John Fischer Aug 30, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room! This week, Trent meets with John, a SERE Specialist, and they cover a lot of ground.
John shares his journey from joining the Air Force to becoming a SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) specialist, inspired by his older brother’s military service. John highlights the importance of persistence, learning through adversity, and sticking with your goals despite the challenges. He reflects on the rigorous SERE training, the lessons learned, and how the experience shaped him both personally and professionally. John also offers valuable advice on excelling in your primary role while navigating the path to retraining into a different career field, stressing the importance of maintaining strong relationships along the way.
In addition, John opens up about his own story of resilience and finding purpose through his experience as a SERE specialist, as well as his passion for ultra-running. He discusses the mental and physical challenges of pursuing his SERE dream and the role of leadership and mental health support in helping him overcome those obstacles. He also emphasizes the courage needed to step outside comfort zones and embrace difficult, transformative experiences. He shares compelling personal stories from his training and the camaraderie he built within the SERE pipeline, highlighting the power of pushing oneself to new heights.
Chapters
00:00 Trent hits the intro
04:40 The Challenges of Joining and Training for a Specialized Career
09:26 The Reality of SEER Training and Lessons Learned
17:42 Seeking Opportunities and Making the Decision to Become a SEER Specialist
23:45 The Importance of Being Self-Sufficient and Figuring Things Out
26:57 The Process of Retraining and the Challenges Faced
30:42 Resilience and Acceptance
36:07 Leadership and Support
39:29 Transforming Through Challenges
52:40 Finding Purpose in Ultra-Running
55:20 Overcoming Depression and Choosing Life
59:40 Motivation and Encouragement

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Ep 349- Obstacle Course Runner, Awesome Human Rachel Watters! Aug 23, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room everyone!
In this episode, Rachel Waters returns with even more insights than her first appearance, offering a powerful message for those looking to push their limits—especially hopeful Special Warfare candidates. As a professional obstacle course racer, Rachel breaks down how the sport blends physical endurance with mental grit, drawing from military-style challenges. She shares how a single Spartan race sparked her passion and led to a journey of growth through consistency, resilience, and facing discomfort head-on.
Rachel dives deep into how mental toughness is often a matter of showing up and pushing through negative self-talk. She recommends practices like journaling to process emotions, clear the mind, and stay mission-focused. Whether it’s embracing the grind with a killer workout playlist or finding the mental clarity of running without distractions, Rachel emphasizes the power of habits and positive routines.
Rachel also opens up about her personal battles, including overcoming bulimia, and how that struggle reshaped her mindset for success. Her story serves as a reminder that overcoming adversity is a choice, and those choices build the warrior’s mindset. She drops valuable advice on the importance of self-reflection, learning from setbacks, and being intentional with your goals—key traits for any SOF candidate.
If you’re serious about growth, Rachel’s insights on accountability, staying motivated during tough moments, and tackling life’s obstacles will resonate with you. Tune in, get inspired, and continue striving to be everything you can be.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:25 Getting Into Obstacle Course Racing
06:43 The Motivation to Keep Going
17:07 Consistency and Mental Toughness
22:14 The Power of Writing
27:23 Running Without Distractions
34:22 Overcoming Challenges and Making Positive Changes
36:14 The Power of Self-Reflection and Learning from Mistakes
40:07 Choosing a Strong Mindset and Making Intentional Choices
46:48 Using Mantras and Strategies for Focus and Motivation
57:36 The Importance of Accountability
01:03:50 Joining the Military and Taking on Challenging Endeavors

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Ep 348: Laura Gordon from Deep End Fitness- What is Grit? Aug 23, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room everyone!
Get ready for a deep dive into mental toughness and fitness like never before. In this episode, Jared sits down with Laura Gordon, a psychotherapist and coach at Deep End Fitness, to explore how pushing your limits in the water can unlock new levels of mental health and resilience.
Laura breaks down the mind-body connection and how holding your breath underwater can be a game-changer for regulating your nervous system. They also touch on how Deep End Fitness builds community, why nutrition is key to performance, and how polyvagal theory helps us understand anxiety and disconnection.
From understanding the science behind stress to creating a space where veterans, military members, and first responders can thrive, Laura shares the real benefits of blending mental health practices with intense physical training. 🚀
Plus, hear about exciting initiatives like Operation Resilience and group therapy sessions designed to support those who serve.
Tune in and discover how combining breath-holding with high-intensity workouts can help you find your inner calm, build resilience, and improve cognitive function – all while feeling connected to a community that’s got your back.
Don't miss out – hit play now! #OnesReady #DeepEndFitness #MentalHealth #usaf
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
02:00 Experience with Deep End Fitness
05:44 The Role of Nutrition in Performance
08:29 Deep End Fitness as a Tool for Mental Health
21:33 Understanding Anxiety and Disconnection with Polyvagal Theory
26:31 Regulating the Nervous System
28:23 Deep End Fitness and Chronic Anxiety
29:49 Accessing the Parasympathetic State
31:16 Tapping into Both States
32:22 Deep End Fitness vs. HIIT Workouts
33:45 Stress Inoculation for Tactical Athletes
35:33 Practicing Internal Dialogue
37:44 Creating a Sense of Safety
39:06 Down-Regulation Practices
41:59 The Circle of Trust
44:22 Operation Resilience
47:43 Group Therapy Sessions
50:01 Pioneering a New Approach

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Ep 347: The Local PipeHITTERS Union Takeover the Team Room! Aug 16, 2024

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In this dynamic episode of the Ones Ready Podcast, we’re thrilled to have an all-star lineup of Air Force recruiters who know what it takes to get into the elite ranks of Special Warfare. Join us as we sit down with MSgt Kris Tomes, MSgt Gerald Romo, and Master Sergeant Select Mark "Funky" Bunkley for an in-depth conversation that pulls back the curtain on the recruitment process and offers invaluable insights for anyone aspiring to join the Air Force.
These seasoned recruiters share their unique perspectives and experiences, breaking down the dos and don'ts of the recruitment process, the qualities they’re looking for in candidates, and how you can set yourself apart from the competition. Whether you’re just starting to consider a career in the Air Force or you’re already deep into your preparation, this episode is packed with the guidance and advice you need to succeed.
MSgt Kris Tomes, a veteran recruiter with a wealth of knowledge, discusses what it takes to meet the rigorous standards of Special Warfare. MSgt Gerald Romo shares his expertise on navigating the challenges and opportunities of the recruitment journey, while Master Sergeant Select Mark "Funky" Bunkley brings his signature energy and insight, offering tips on how to stay motivated and focused throughout the process.
But it’s not just about recruitment—our guests dive into the broader picture of what it means to be part of the Air Force Special Warfare community. From the mental toughness required to excel, to the importance of physical preparation, to the camaraderie that comes with being part of an elite team, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone serious about making it in Special Warfare.
We also explore the latest trends and updates in the recruitment world, including changes in policies and how they might affect your path to becoming a Special Warfare Airman. Our guests provide an insider’s look at what’s happening behind the scenes and what you can do to stay ahead of the curve.
Get ready for an episode that’s as informative as it is motivating. Whether you’re aiming to be the next Combat Controller, Pararescueman, or Tactical Air Control Party Specialist, this conversation with MSgt Kris Tomes, MSgt Gerald Romo, and Master Sergeant Select Mark "Funky" Bunkley is your roadmap to success. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to launch your Air Force career to new heights!

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Ep 346: TF_Voo_Doo Dr. David "Wally" Walton! Aug 15, 2024

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In this riveting episode of the Ones Ready Podcast, we sit down with Dr. David Walton, a retired Army Special Forces Officer who brings a wealth of experience from both the battlefield and the academic world. Dr. Walton takes us behind the scenes of Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS), shedding light on the often misunderstood and misrepresented aspects of the process. He’s here to clear the fog and set the record straight for all aspiring candidates.
Dr. Walton dives deep into the purpose and framework of selection processes, explaining the crucial role of the generating force in shaping and preparing the next wave of special operators. This conversation is more than just a look at the challenges faced by operators; it’s a masterclass in understanding the universal truths that every special operator must grasp.
Ever wondered why certain physical fitness standards exist, like the number of pull-ups or push-ups? Dr. Walton and the hosts discuss the origins of these requirements, revealing how they’re influenced by the demands of other military schools and the mission-critical tasks that operators must be ready to perform.
But the conversation doesn't stop there. We explore the role of masculinity, character, and mentorship in the selection process, and the importance of accurately guiding the next generation of operators. Dr. Walton and the hosts tackle the complex challenge of bridging the generational gap within the special operations community, ensuring that the lessons learned by today’s operators are passed down to those who will carry the torch into future conflicts.
As societal changes impact recruitment and training—think the over-prescription of medications and shifts in the education system—Dr. Walton emphasizes the need for effective communication and messaging to attract and train the right candidates. This episode is a powerful exploration of what it takes to prepare the next generation of warriors, and it’s packed with insights that you won’t want to miss.
Whether you're a seasoned operator, an aspiring candidate, or someone interested in the inner workings of special operations, this conversation with Dr. Walton is guaranteed to engage, inform, and inspire. Tune in and discover what it truly means to prepare for the ultimate test in Special Warfare.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:04 The Desire for Special Operations
10:00 Rebuilding SFAS and the Q Course
17:06 The Tension Between the Operational and Generating Force
24:01 The Perception of Changes in Selection
30:44 Uncovering the Origins of Training Practices
36:43 The Debate Over Standards
45:12 The Role of Mentorship and Guidance
54:59 The Significance of Masculinity and Character
59:46 Preparing the Next Generation of Operators
01:01:07 The Gap in Experience and Knowledge
01:02:15 Planting Seeds for the Future
01:03:43 The Power of Sharing Experiences
01:07:58 The Importance of Life Skills
01:14:30 Immediate and Positive Feedback Expectations
01:15:28 Tailoring Selection and Assessment Pipelines
01:19:12 The Need for Effective Communication
01:20:44 Addressing the Shrinking Pool of Candidates
01:22:12 The Impact of the Education System
01:23:34 Resources for Preparation and Training

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Ep 345: FAQ- Cross Training into Air Force Special Warfare Aug 11, 2024

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In this episode of the Ones Ready Podcast, we're diving deep into the world of cross-training within Air Force Special Warfare—a topic that's as challenging as it is rewarding. Our hosts break down why tech sergeants often face hurdles when attempting to cross-train and the unique challenges higher-ranking individuals encounter in the pipeline. But it’s not all about the obstacles; it’s about the opportunities to bring your maturity, sharp writing skills, and ability to serve as a critical liaison between the cadre and your team to the forefront.
We’re sharing hard-earned insights and personal stories to help aspiring cross-trainees bring real value to the pipeline. From understanding the Air Force’s quotas and allocations for cross-training to navigating the sometimes murky waters of career field changes—think JTAC and EOD—we’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need.
But that’s not all. We’re taking a closer look at the distinct archetypes of Special Reconnaissance (SR) and Combat Controllers (CCT). Which TV and movie characters nail these roles? What unique skills and abilities do these airmen bring to the battlefield? And why is a diverse skillset critical in these career fields?
Whether you're a seasoned operator or someone eyeing a cross-training opportunity, this conversation is packed with valuable insights, cautionary tales, and motivational advice to help you navigate your Air Force career with precision and purpose. Don’t miss out—this episode is your roadmap to understanding the intricate dynamics of cross-training in Special Warfare. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your career.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Bagel Sponsorship
05:19 Challenges of Cross-Training Tech Sergeants
10:39 Bringing Value as a Cross-Trainee
16:27 The Role of Cross-Trainees in the Pipeline
18:55 Advice for Cross-Trainees
23:44 Air Force Quotas and Allocation Spreadsheet
24:19 Understanding Cross-Training Quotas and Placeholders
26:26 Navigating Rumors and Misinformation in Career Fields
27:27 The Importance of Clean Data in the Military
35:20 Exploring the Nuances of Different Missions and Challenges
38:19 Flexibility and Adaptability in the Military
48:00 Exploring the Archetypes of Special Reconnaissance and Combat Controllers
49:03 Movie and TV Show Characters that Embody the SR and CCT Archetypes
50:17 The Impact of SR and CCT Roles on the Battlefield
51:38 The Importance of Diverse Skillsets in SR and CCT
56:37 The Ability of PJs, CCTs, and SR Guys to Affect the Battle Space

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Ep 344: Aaron and Peaches Chop It Up! Aug 09, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room everyone!
Join Peaches and Aaron as they embark on an exhilarating journey through their recent experiences and adventures! In this episode, they recount their visits to Cali and Deep End Fitness, sharing thrilling stories and insights that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Listen in as they discuss their impactful involvement with the Special Operations Transition Foundation (SOTF), highlighting the crucial support it provides to veterans transitioning to civilian life. Their tales from the military, including intense smoke sessions and the invaluable role of instructors, offer a unique glimpse into the heart of special operations.
Peaches and Aaron emphasize the power of mentorship and the importance of soft skills, professional development, and storytelling. 📚 Their candid conversation covers military training methods, the need for transparency, and the challenges of recruiting and enlisting. 🛡️
Don’t miss out on the chance to hear from the hosts who are dedicated to helping every special warfare hopeful succeed! Whether you’re a veteran, an aspiring special operator, or just someone who loves a great story, this episode has something for you.
**Follow our page, leave a review, and subscribe to the Ones Ready Podcast today!** Let’s build a community that supports our veterans and enriches the special operations community. Your engagement helps us bring more incredible content to you!
🎧 **Tune in now and be part of the Ones Ready mission!** 🎧
Chapters
00:00 Intro and Worrying about Trent
02:03 Recapping Recent Adventures
09:38 Special Operations Transition Foundation (SOTF)
13:01 Instructors Getting Involved in Smoke Sessions
26:53 The Value of Mentorship
33:29 The Importance of Soft Skills and Real-Life Learning
35:33 The Value of Professional Development and Knowledgeable Speakers
37:27 The Need for Transparency in the Military

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Ep 343: Kevin from 18A Fitness in the Team Room! Aug 09, 2024

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The title says it all- Trent and Kevin chopping it up in the team room!
Join Trent and Kevin in an inspiring and dynamic conversation as they delve into their unique experiences within the Air Force Special Warfare pipeline. Discover the contrasting training methodologies between the Army and Air Force, and the significance of support personnel engaging in physical training to foster camaraderie with operators. Hear about the rigorous challenges faced during Air Force training, the crucial role of proper recovery, and the value of individualized training approaches.
Trent sheds light on the often misunderstood intensity of military training, stressing the importance of gradually building capacity. He also bridges the gap between military personnel and civilians by sharing insights into the battlefield's stress and challenges, underlining the vital role of experience.
The discussion also tackles the importance of effective leadership and decision-making, especially among officers. Trent opens up about his personal journey in the military and his motivations for launching 18 Alpha Fitness. His program champions consistency, recovery, and personalized coaching, aiming to help individuals achieve their fitness goals.
Get ready for a motivating and enlightening session that underscores the importance of dedication, effective leadership, and personalized support in achieving success both in the military and beyond.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and OnesReady Merch
01:28 Differences Between Army and Air Force Training
03:22 The Challenges of the Air Force Training Pipeline
05:20 The Misconception of Training Intensity
10:36 Building Capacity Over Time
29:09 Gaps in Understanding Between Military and Civilians
30:08 The Importance of Leadership and Decision-Making
31:09 The Challenges Faced by Military Personnel
32:34 The Need for Practical Training
33:34 The Role of Officers in the Military
34:59 Success in Combat Control School
41:13 The Decision to Start 18 Alpha Fitness
44:08 Being Authentic and True to Yourself
48:00 The Importance of Consistency in Fitness
51:24 Personalized Coaching and Adjustments
54:20 Dealing with Impersonators and Scammers
55:15 The Goal of Making Individuals Better

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***Sneak Peek*** MBRS 13: The Team Fixes Military Public Affairs Aug 02, 2024

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We aren't going to sugar coat it- the public affairs folks in the Air Force aren't the best. As a matter of fact, they're the folks that usually stand in the way of the content you want to see and hear.
Don't worry- we have the fix.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
02:53 The Frustration with PAO
09:07 The Need for Authenticity and Transparency
15:26 PAO's Control Over the Message
23:46 The Importance of Authenticity and Transparency
24:03 Airborne School: Camaraderie, Chaos, and Jumps
27:37 Misconceptions about Jump Wings
33:54 Critiquing Public Affairs in the Military
45:06 The Need for Transparency and Valuable Content in PA
46:10 Working with PAOs and Other Agencies
48:05 Commanders and Authority
53:52 The Problem with Commanders
55:06 The Concept of Safety
59:45 The Power of Social Media
01:06:43 Ending on a Lighthearted Note
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The views and opinions expressed by the OnesReady team and all guests are those of the team and themselves, and do not reflect the official policy or position of the DoD. Any content provided by our Podcast guests, bloggers, sponsors, or authors is their opinion and is not intended to malign the DoD, any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone.

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***Sneak Peek*** MBRS 10: That Others May Live Aug 02, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room!!! Members- thanks for hanging out. We think ya'll are the bees knees. We covered a lot of ground on this one, but we left the title cause it made me (Aaron) so worked up.
Anyway- here is wonderwall!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and YouTube Subscriptions
04:15 That Others May Live
19:14 The Need for a Unified Command for Air Force Ground Forces
21:15 the King for a Day Questions
24:14 The Value of a Leader with Shared Experiences
29:02 The Significance of a Shared Baseline and Context
30:54 Introduction and Discussion of Chief Kelly's Appointment
37:06 The Lack of Reverse Diversity in Leadership Positions
43:55 The Importance of Context and Personal Experience in Leadership
48:16 The Inappropriateness of Non-Special Warfare Leadership in the Training Wing
54:57 Maximizing Capability and Supporting Field Personnel
57:46 Critique of the Video Reel and Closing Remarks
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