Palmetto Guardian

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Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 6 Jul 02, 2025

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In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain John Denny welcomes Lt. Col. Javier Yudice, the state training officer and battalion commander of the 4th Battalion, 118th Infantry Regiment in the South Carolina National Guard. Yudice shares insights into his dual roles and the responsibilities that come with them, particularly focusing on the significance of combined arms operations, which involve heavy military equipment like tanks and bradleys. The conversation touches on leadership philosophy and the importance of resilience and spiritual strength among military personnel. Tune in to hear Yudice’s experiences and the stories that shape his worldview and leadership approach.

Palmetto Guardian - Episode 173 Jun 22, 2025

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On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian, we continue our conversation with Maj. Gen. Robin Stilwell, the 30th Adjutant General of South Carolina. We delve into the significance of family support in the military, the value of relationships, and leadership insights. Gen. Stilwell shares personal reflections and advice for service members, emphasizing the importance of enjoying and appreciating the present moment in their military careers. He encourages listeners to focus on making a difference rather than solely seeking promotions or higher ranks. Tune in for valuable insights from experienced leaders in the South Carolina National Guard. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver and Maj. Karla Evans with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.

Palmetto Guardian - Episode 172 Jun 13, 2025

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On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian we talk with Maj. Gen. Robin Stilwell, the 30th adjutant general of the South Carolina. We discuss Gen. Stilwell's vision for the South Carolina National Guard and his strategic priorities for the future. Gen. Stilwell, a Greenville native, has a distinguished military career that began in 1985 and includes numerous leadership positions and deployments. His accolades include the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. This episode provides an in-depth look at Gen. Stilwell's extensive experience and insights into the direction of the South Carolina National Guard. Tune in for part one, a compelling conversation about leadership, service, and the future of the National Guard. Join us next week for the continuation of this interview in part two. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver and Maj. Karla Evans with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.

Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 5 May 15, 2025

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In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain Denny interviews Sgt. 1st Class Carlos Vargas, a dedicated member of the South Carolina National Guard. With a heartfelt introduction, Denny expresses admiration for Carlos’s deep care for soldiers, highlighting the genuine passion he brings to his role. Carlos shares his journey from Costa Rica to the United States, revealing that his desire to become a citizen in the early 2000s led him to join the military. He reflects on the significant opportunities he received through education and service, as well as how a part-time military commitment has evolved into a fulfilling 19-year career. Tune in to hear more about Carlos’s inspiring story and the impact of military service on his life.

Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 3 Apr 21, 2025

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In this episode of the Chap Chat, Chaplain Denny welcomes Capt. Lisa Allen from the South Carolina Air National Guard, 169th Fighter Wing. She shares her unique journey from the Navy to the Air Guard, with 11 years of experience in the Navy Reserves, specifically in Public Affairs, Captain Allen discusses the challenges she faced while managing her military responsibilities alongside her family and civilian career. She highlights the lack of integration between the reserve and active components, which ultimately led her to seek a more fulfilling role in the Air Guard. Capturing her passion for public affairs, she explains how her transition was motivated by a desire to hone her skills and serve effectively. Tune in to learn more about the significance of public affairs in the military and the personal journey of a dedicated service member.

Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 4 Apr 10, 2025

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In this episode of Chap Chat, Chaplain Denny welcomes Sgt. Travis Duncan, the State Resiliency Coordinator with the Service Member Family Care Directorate of the South Carolina Army National Guard. Travis shares his insights on various support programs available for service members and their families, including suicide prevention, behavioral health, and family programming. With a military career spanning since 2009, Travis recounts his journey through different military police units, reflecting on his experiences and the importance of resilience in service. Tune in to hear valuable keys to staying grounded during challenging times.

Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 2 Apr 03, 2025

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In this episode of CHAP Chat, we welcome Staff Sgt. Jamie Beaman, who works in the G3, the state-level division responsible for training and mobilization. Jamie shares her military journey, her love of reading, and how literature helps her cope with stress. Jamie candidly shares her decade-long struggles with anxiety and depression, insights from her deployment to Afghanistan, and the challenges she faced as a female in a predominantly male environment—including the valuable lessons learned from Afghan women in authority roles. She also recounts her transformative experience at the Big Red Barn, a nonprofit supporting veterans and first responders, emphasizing the importance of personalized mental health care and the courage to seek help. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, mental health, and the power of community support.

Palmetto Guardian - Chap Chat Ep 1 Feb 18, 2025

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Welcome to CHAPCHAT, the new segment of the Palmetto Guardian Podcast hosted by Chaplain Denny—a series dedicated to exploring the personal stories behind military service. In this inaugural episode, Chaplain Denny, the full-time staff chaplain for the South Carolina National Guard, introduces the podcast's mission to delve into the lives of soldiers beyond their uniforms. Joining him in episode 1 is Greg Brown, a pastor at St. David's Lutheran Church and chaplain for the 678th Brigade, who shares his inspiring faith journey and the motivations that drive his service to our troops. Tune in to gain insight into the resilience and personal growth of military personnel as they navigate the challenges of life and service. Join us for an inspiring conversation that reveals the strength found through faith and the heart of those who serve.

Palmetto Guardian - Episode 170 Aug 04, 2024

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On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver aka Hollywood, heads to the field to cover the Child and Youth Program 2024 Youth Camp. She talks with campers, junior/senior counselors and staff about their experience during the week long camp. They dive into their favorite activities, what they look forward to most next year and a little advice to those future first time campers. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the SCNG child and youth programs hosting the youth camp at Camp Bob Cooper. The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.

Palmetto Guardian - Episode 169 Jul 31, 2024

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On this episode of the Palmetto Guardian we talk with Jennifer Settlemyer, South Carolina National Guard Integrated Primary Prevention Manager, about integrated primary prevention. Join us and explore the world of integrated primary prevention! In this episode, we delve into the importance of preventing harm before it occurs, focusing on proactive strategies that build safer communities. From understanding the role of integrated primary prevention to implementing successful programs, our episodes cover it all. Join us as we discuss how these approaches create resilient systems, reduce risks, and foster a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone. Tune in to discover the power of proactive prevention and its impact on our future! The Palmetto Guardian is hosted by Staff Sgt. Chelsea Weaver with the South Carolina National Guard Public Affairs office.

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