Ones Ready

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Ep. 305: Special Tactics Officer, Prior CCT Capt Marc Esposito Mar 30, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room! This week, Trent sits down with Purple Heart recipient, prior Combat Control Tech Sergeant and current Flight Commander, Special Tactics Officer Marc Esposito!
From his time in Afghanistan, the unfortunate event that injured him, his recovery and move to officer, Capt Espo has a wealth of knowledge that he hopes to communicate to everyone that thinks they might want to give Air Force Special Operations a go.
Make sure to follow Capt Esposito on Instagram at Esposito_Unbroken, and thanks to all of you for your continued support.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Appreciation
01:25 Motivation to Join the Military
05:13 Training in the Pipeline
07:39 First Assignment in Okinawa, Japan
10:07 Deployment to Afghanistan
13:03 Injury from an IED
28:25 Meeting a Vietnam Veteran
30:24 Recovery at the Center for the Intrepid
32:17 Going to College and Finding a New Passion
34:02 Cross-Country Bicycle Ride for Wounded Warriors
36:27 Returning to the 2-1 and Facing New Challenges
37:53 Running the Battle Program and Training Future Operators
40:43 Training at Athletes Performance (EXOS)
42:10 Becoming an Officer and Returning to the Teams
45:02 Working at the Special Warfare Training Group
46:01 Returning to the 2-2 STS and Deploying
53:42 Returning to ATC and Improving the Pipeline
59:06 Starting the Esposito_Unbroken Instagram Page
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Ep 304: New Boot Goofin' with TSgt Mark "Funky" Bunkley! Mar 23, 2024

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What's up to all the NorCal Bad Boys out here for this episode with the man, the myth, the legend, TSgt Mark "Funky" Bunkley.
In this conversation, Mark Bunkley discusses his transition from being an operator to a special operations recruiter. He highlights the challenges and misconceptions of recruiting for special warfare and emphasizes the importance of educating the public about the benefits and skills gained in these career fields. Mark shares his strategies for selling special warfare to potential recruits, particularly athletes, and emphasizes the need for consistency and proper training. He also expresses his job satisfaction in mentoring and seeing recruits succeed in their training and careers.
Mark shares his experiences in Air Force Special Warfare and the impact he has had on recruits' lives. He emphasizes the importance of progress and taking responsibility for one's actions. Mark discusses the challenges he faced and the character traits that contribute to success in training. He also highlights the opportunities for advancement and personal growth in special warfare. Mark addresses the role of parents in the decision-making process and offers advice on overcoming doubts.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Best Recruiting Event
01:34 Transition to Recruiting and Challenges
03:03 Misconceptions and Benefits of Special Warfare
04:26 Lack of Knowledge and Awareness
06:29 Transitioning from Operator to Recruiter
08:25 Skills Gained in Special Warfare
09:23 Intrinsic Motivation and Expectations
10:59 Selling Special Warfare and Personal Experiences
14:38 Recruiting Strategies and Target Audience
19:08 Importance of Baseline Athleticism
23:57 Common Mistakes in Physical Training
26:45 Preparing for Special Warfare at a Young Age
29:08 Importance of Consistency and Avoiding Overtraining
33:06 Job Satisfaction and Impact of Mentoring
34:14 Changing Lives and Progress
35:00 Mark literally doxxes some dudes and we all laugh about it
36:12 Taking Responsibility and Building Confidence
37:31 Character and Success
39:19 Advancement and Personal Growth
44:37 Overcoming Challenges and Learning Life Skills
46:11 Dealing with Mistakes and Accountability
48:28 Interacting with Parents and Overcoming Doubts
55:14 Future Plans and Events

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Ep 303: UFC Fighter, Combat Controller Connor Matthews Mar 23, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room! We have some exciting news. Our team member, Connor Matthews, is fighting in the UFC on March 30th. Ones Ready is proud to be one of his sponsors for this incredible journey!
In this episode, Connor shares his journey to the UFC and the challenges he has faced along the way. He highlights the importance of maintaining focus, making sacrifices and the mindset needed to overcome setbacks. Connor also discusses his role as a T3I developer and how he imparts lessons to aspiring candidates. He emphasizes the significance of developing a winning mentality and creating a culture of excellence.
Connor's story inspires us to work hard and never give up on our dreams. He reminds us that building a team with diverse skill sets is crucial to achieving success. He also highlights how important it is to earn respect every day and put aside ego. His story teaches us the value of hard work, sacrifice, and team bonds.
We are thrilled to support Connor in his journey to the UFC. If you want to be a part of this journey, check out his website and show your support. Remember, with hard work, dedication, and a winning mindset, anything is possible.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:06 Connor's Journey to the UFC
03:38 Maintaining Focus and Making Sacrifices
06:07 Overcoming Setbacks and Staying Motivated
09:27 Imparting Lessons to Aspiring Candidates
11:26 Incorporating Pipeline Antics into Training Camps
13:38 Handling Setbacks and Moving Forward
17:33 Developing a Winning Mentality
21:01 Inspiration from Georges St-Pierre
25:11 Creating a Culture of Excellence
27:01 Preparing for the Fight
29:07 Feeling Grounded and Focused
32:25 The Team Environment and Nothing is Impossible Mentality
33:25 Building a Team
34:09 Competition Mentality
35:23 Earning Respect
36:35 Diversity in Fighting
37:30 Team Bonds in MMA
38:52 Sacrifices for Teammates
40:18 Supporting Connor

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Ep 302: F-35 Pilot Col Charles "VICE" Fallon Mar 16, 2024

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In this inspiring conversation, Col "Vice" Fallon talks about his journey in the Air Force and the importance of staying connected with one's tactical roots. He emphasizes the exciting adventure and endless opportunities that come with serving in the Air Force and living overseas. The conversation also covers the harsh realities of combat and highlights the importance of teamwork and staying in a flow state during high-stress situations.
Col Fallon stresses the significance of training and muscle memory and the continuous need for optimized training models and improvement. He also discusses the importance of providing tailored instruction and improving instructors. The conversation concludes on an optimistic note, emphasizing the need for lifelong growth and development in the military.
In this conversation, Peaches and Vice also discuss the importance of breaking assumptions and continuously improving in the military. They highlight the significance of focusing on service in retention and recruitment efforts rather than just practical considerations. The conversation concludes with an encouraging message for young people considering a military path, reminding them to hit the 'I believe' button and embrace the opportunity to serve.
Overall, this conversation is a reminder of the exciting and rewarding journey of service in the military. It inspires us to stay connected to our roots, prioritize growth and development, and embrace the opportunities that come with serving our country.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Appreciation
01:06 Transition to F-35 and Tactical Roots
03:13 The Adventure and Opportunities in the Air Force
05:06 The Importance of Teamwork in Fighter Aviation
06:24 The Realities of Combat and the Business End of Operations
08:47 Appreciating the American Military Might
09:45 The Personal Growth of Living Overseas
13:08 The Significance of Combat Time
16:00 The Intensity and Flow State of Combat
17:35 The Importance of Training and Muscle Memory
19:04 The Value of Synthetic Training and AI
20:32 The Need for Continuous Improvement in Training
33:35 The Revelation from Playing Video Games
38:18 The Need for Optimized Training Models
44:03 Improving Instructors and Tailored Instruction
46:01 Continuing Development and Improvement
47:26 The Expectations and Training for Experienced Pilots
48:20 The Need for Lifelong Improvement
49:19 Continuous Improvement and Breaking Assumptions
50:18 The Journey of Service
51:21 The Importance of Service in Retention and Recruitment
52:47 The Emotional Decision to Stay in the Military
54:13 The Shortness of Time and the Value of Military Experience
55:38 Balancing Red Lines and Service in the Military
56:07 The Human Connection and Service in the Military
57:36 The Loss of Capability When People Leave the Military
58:58 The Importance of Belief and Taking the Opportunity to Serve
59:28 Advice for Young People Considering a Military Path
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Ep 301: USAF CCT Functional Manager CMSgt Geoff Ikert- CCT UPDATES Mar 13, 2024

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You could say that Ones Ready *REALLY* puts the FUN in FUNctional manager, you know what I'm saying!!!! We have fun here.
Combat Control Trainees- listen up, this one is for you. Combat Controller, Chief Master Sergeant Geoff Ikert has a 20 year career full of accolades. Chief Ikert sat down with Aaron and Peaches to talk about every single update you need for the pipeline.
Thanks to Chief Ikert for providing the ground truth on what's happening in the world of Combat Control, both pipeline changes and in the career field.
We really take pride in being the Air Force's official UNofficial podcast, and we want to say thanks to all our members for always supporting us!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Combat Control Career Field
01:33 Background and Journey to Combat Control
03:27 Military Experience and Deployment
05:22 Interest in Air Force Special Operations
06:20 Role of Combat Control in Air Force
07:44 Transitioning to Air Force and Challenges
09:38 First Assignment at Mildenhall
12:19 Experience as an Overseas Airman
13:15 Maturity and Responsibility in Special Operations
15:07 Role of Special Operations in Low Intensity Conflict
16:54 Forecasting the Future of Special Tactics
25:51 Consolidation and Efficiency in Air Force Special Warfare
32:59 The Value of Joint Terminal Attack Control (JTAC)
35:22 The Evolution of Global Access and Force Projection
38:18 Consolidation and Efficiency in Air Force Special Warfare
42:05 Expectation Management and Opportunities
46:58 Combat Diver Qualification
50:13 Training and Qualifications
53:06 Advice for Joining
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Trent and Aaron's Mixtape Mar 09, 2024

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This week, buckle up as Aaron and Trent duke it out over the last remaining brain cell they share. It's a showdown you won't want to miss!
In this episode, Trent and Aaron dive into a wide range of military and personal topics. From debunking stereotypes about ciders and beers to waxing nostalgic about mixtapes and cassette recorders, they cover it all. They also get real about the impact of age on self-perception and the importance of focusing on the journey rather than the destination.
But that's not all! They also tackle common questions about career choices, training, and seeking advice. Sharing their experiences with SIF teams and torch rotations, they stress the value of adaptability and seizing opportunities. Plus, they emphasize the significance of mastering the basics and progressing in training.
Oh, and did we mention their gripes about DMs and lengthy questions? They'll make you think twice before hitting send.
Join Trent and Aaron for a conversation filled with positivity, insights, and plenty of laughs. Get ready to level up your training game and take charge of your journey like never before!
Chapters
00:00 Admitting to yourself that Cider is dope
08:01 Age and Self-Reflection
27:52 Training with SIF Teams and Torch Rotations
29:14 Being Flexible and Recognizing Opportunities
29:50 The Importance of Basics and Progression
31:14 Gripes About DMs and Questions
34:04 Having Two Ideas at the Same Time
35:13 Understanding Complexity and Nuance
36:19 Seeking Advice from Peers and Similar Experience Levels
37:47 The Limitations of Answering Specific Questions
39:36 The Unlikelihood of Pursuing Multiple Career Paths
41:04 Positivity and Self-Coaching
42:22 The Importance of Research and Peer Support
46:23 We're Just Normal People
49:59 Working Ourselves Out of a Job
51:11 Appreciating the Support and Positivity
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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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Ep 300: Don't Be Weird and Other Life Lessons Mar 02, 2024

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Welcome to "The Ones Ready Podcast," your ultimate source of inspiration and guidance on the journey through the Air Force Special Warfare community. This week, join Aaron, Peaches, and Trent as they dive into crucial life skills essential for your success not just in the military, but specifically in the rigorous assessment and selection process of Air Force Special Warfare.
We've observed a common trend among candidates, and in this episode, we unpack the importance of seemingly mundane yet indispensable skills like driving a stick shift, mastering the art of doing laundry, and even the basics of ordering at restaurants and engaging in normal conversations.
Remember, it's not just about being extraordinary; it's about being exceptionally prepared. The takeaway? Embrace your uniqueness, but never underestimate the power of being grounded and relatable. Tune in, subscribe, and embark on this transformative journey with us. Don't miss out on future episodes packed with invaluable insights and advice. Like, subscribe, and join us as we elevate ourselves to new heights together!
Also, thanks to each and every one of you that helped us get to 300 episodes. That's pretty rad, and we are all very aware that it has nothing to do with us, and everything to do with you.
Say something nice in the comments about Trent's hair.
Chapters
00:00 The most chaotic introduction of any introduction in the history of introductions
02:38 The Importance of Communication Skills
03:47 The Need for Realistic Expectations
06:19 The Importance of First Impressions
09:02 The Dangers of Over-Preparation
12:47 The Role of Parents in Preparing Recruits
16:04 The Changing Landscape of Adulthood
21:59 The Importance of Being a Good Roommate
25:26 The Impact of Financial Responsibility
27:53 The Need for Self-Sufficiency
28:25 The Futility of Pointless Debates
29:38 Don't Be Weird
30:35 Baseline Human Skills
33:24 Act Normal
35:23 Cleanliness and Personal Hygiene
38:16 Self-Motivated Fitness
41:14 Dating and Interpersonal Skills
46:49 Financial Literacy
51:51 Investing and Finance
52:13 Effective Communication
53:10 Managing Finances and Responsibilities
54:07 Writing Emails and Communication Etiquette
55:33 Maintaining Balance and Managing Money
56:47 Hierarchy and Professionalism
58:07 First Impressions and Respect
59:43 The Importance of Structure and Hierarchy
01:04:05 Building a Hierarchy and Structure
01:07:13 Pressure and Expectations in the Military
01:09:18 Reflection on 300 Episodes

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Ep 299: Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator Jared "Diesel" Harrison Feb 28, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room! Today, we're excited to share an inspiring conversation between Peaches and MSgt Jared "Diesel" Harrison, a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator.
In this conversation, Jared shares his journey of joining the Air Force and the incredible career growth opportunities he has experienced as a sensor operator. His passion for his job is truly infectious as he highlights the critical thinking skills and trust required to be successful in his role.
Jared emphasizes the importance of continuous training and adapting to the changing mission requirements. He shares his advice for those looking to join the Air Force, encouraging them to surround themselves with people who have a growth mindset and who are committed to self-improvement and community betterment.
Peaches and Jared also discuss the concept of service and servant leadership, emphasizing the pride that comes with representing the community. The challenges and rewards of flying in multiple Areas of Responsibility (AORs) are also discussed in this conversation.
This conversation is sure to motivate you and leave you with the drive to pursue your dreams. So, whether you're considering a career in the Air Force or just looking for inspiration, you won't want to miss this conversation with MSgt Jared "Diesel" Harrison.
Chapters:
00:00 Peaches suspects Diesel is *not* a real name
03:00 Joining the Air Force
06:20 Becoming a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator
10:09 Career Growth and Name Changes
13:26 Expanding Locations for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations
15:47 The Cockpit and Communication
19:34 Executing Real-World Missions
25:41 Advanced Instructor Course and Weapons School
28:35 Recruiting Sensor Operators
32:18 The Relationship Between Sensor Operator and Pilot
42:21 Characteristics of a Sensor Operator
47:13 The Importance of Training and Communication
51:18 Flying in Multiple AORs
52:16 Advice for Joining the Air Force
53:36 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People
54:00 Self-Improvement and Community Improvement
55:27 Service and Servant Leadership
56:47 Taking Pride in Your Organization
57:16 The Power of Many Hands

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Ep 298: Combat Control Legend and T3i Developer CMSgt (ret) Aaron May! Feb 24, 2024

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When we called on the listeners to recommend a T3i developer for the podcast, one name came up immediately and often- Aaron May.
Aaron May is a legend in the Combat Control career field, and he's still giving back to AFSPECWAR as a T3i developer. His career spans more than 26 years in the Kentucky Air National Guard and Air Force, and his immense skill and knowledge is on full display in this podcast!
From intense missions to mentoring, Aaron discusses the power of storytelling and unlocking potential. Plus, Jared dives into purposeful training and offers valuable advice for those interested in development careers. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!
Thanks for following along, and if you're liking what we are doing please let us know by liking, subscribing, and commenting on the video. It doesn't take any time at all and it really does help us get the word out.
We appreciate you!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
08:06 Discovering Combat Control
16:52 Choosing Air Force Special Warfare
23:00 Continuing to Serve and Give Back
30:23 Negative Traits in Development Candidates
47:20 The Importance of Purposeful Training
49:15 Preparing for a Career in Development
52:00 The Benefits of Commitment and Teamwork
56:45 The Strengths and Weaknesses of the Current Generation
01:04:21 The Importance of Planning and Prioritizing
01:14:07 Building Habits and Following a Schedule
01:21:25 Training for Mental Toughness

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Ep 297: SOF TACP, Author Wes Bryant Feb 21, 2024

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Welcome back to the team room! This week is special because Trent and Peaches had the opportunity to sit down with former SOF TACP, Wes Bryant. In this conversation, Wes shares his journey from joining the Air Force, to operating at the highest levels of SOF, to transitioning out and finding a new way to serve. His book, "Hunting the Caliphate: America's War on ISIS and the Dawn of the Strike Cell" is live now on Amazon and Wes has been hitting on all cylinders.
Wes discusses his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, highlighting the importance of JTACs in air-ground operations. He explains the role of JTACs as air power integrators and advisors to ground commanders. Wes also talks about the establishment of the kinetic strike cell and the transition from being on the ground to working with screens.
During the conversation, Wes Bryant working with General Pittard and the leadership qualities he admired in him. Wes shares his insights on the challenges of the approval process for air strikes and the complexities of relationships in combat zones. He offers advice for those looking to join Air Force Special Warfare and emphasizes the importance of research and perseverance.
We hope you liked this one and make sure to pick up Wes's book, Hunting the Caliphate: America's War on ISIS and the Dawn of the Strike Cell here - https://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Caliphate-Americas-ISIS-Strike/dp/1642930555 -
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:28 Entering the Air Force and Transitioning to TACP
03:16 Challenges in Dive School and Transition to TACP
06:08 Returning to Dive School and Graduating
07:45 Transitioning to PJ Pipeline and Leaving
08:41 Returning to TACP and Deploying to Iraq
09:24 Transitioning to ST TACP and Selection
13:55 Experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan
17:51 Importance of JTACs in Air-Ground Operations
19:18 Role of Air Force JTACs in Ground Maneuver Units
21:49 Understanding ROE and Decision-Making
23:12 The Complexity of the JTAC Role
25:23 The Kinetic Strike Cell and Targeting Operations
33:32 Establishment of the Strike Cell and Transition to Screens
37:56 Frustrations and Challenges in the Strike Cell
39:43 Hunting the Caliphate
40:32 Working with General Pittard
41:23 General Pittard’s Leadership
42:16 Running Strike Operations in Syria
43:16 Writing the Book with General Pittard
45:09 Editing the Book
46:13 The Enlisted Perspective
47:40 ROE Challenges in Iraq
48:59 Approval Process for Air Strikes
50:04 Communication Challenges with Strike Cells
52:20 Personal Conflicts in Combat Zones
53:19 The Complexity of Relationships in Combat Zones
55:26 Green on Blue Incidents
56:20 Transitioning to Civilian Life
59:30 Identity Crisis after Retirement
01:05:24 Advice for Joining Air Force Special Warfare

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