Permission To Speak Freely - Damon Leggins and Andamo McCullough

Latest Episodes:

”The Things That Are Not Pretty” (Feat. Dezarae Brigham) May 08, 2023

Show notes

In the first episode of Mental Health Awareness month, Damo is joined by Dezarae Brigham, an active duty first class petty officer and the host of the ‘Seeds of Triumph’ podcast. They discuss her mental health journey, fitness journey, and her current experience as a podcaster. She starts of by sharing her troubling experiences with leadership early in her career while deployed in Afghanistan. Dezarae used competing in and winning bodybuilding tournaments as a way to cope with stress. She discusses her continued mental health journey at her current command. Damo discusses his newfound “preventative stress practice” and the importance of saying “No” sometimes. The two discuss treatment and talk about the reasons why people be reluctant to seek help. How was Dezarae able to get an interview with a FLTCM in just 10 episodes. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with Dezarae:

Instagram - https://instagram.com/dezarae.anne?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Keep up with the ‘Seeds of Triumph’ Podcast:

Instagram - https://instagram.com/seedsoftriumphpodcast?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dezarae-brigham-8624a9267/

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/seedsoftriumphpodcast

Be sure to reach out to Dezarae for a copy of the ‘Seeds of Triumph Mental Health Resource’ Handbook.

Dezarae’s Book Suggestions:

Start With Why (Simon Sinek) - https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/

Can’t Hurt Me (David Goggins) - https://davidgoggins.com/book/

A Little Life (Hanna Yanagihara) - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22822858-a-little-life

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

”I Committed It To Memory” May 01, 2023

Show notes

Let’s start this one with a little bit of transparency. Who the hell messes up the SAPR acronym anyway? Damo clears the air on his fumble. CY257 Active Duty E8 and E9 quotas are out. Good luck and well wishes to all. Do you want to become a hitman? Well, that’s as easy as hitting up a website and putting your application in. Just call the prison and ask the Tennessee Air National Guardsman that tried to do it. For this week’s “Do Better” segment, Damon talks about his issues while requesting his upcoming travel event. How does an increase in Family Separation pay sound? The guys talk through the culture of “Spot Checks” and discuss the importance doing it right. Was CPO 365 more effective than Sailor 360? The guys discuss character traits that they have that they know may piss other people off. Should everyone be thanked for their service? The guys discuss what advice they would give a “younger version” of themselves if they were joining the Navy today. What does Damon and Damo consider a “successful” tour? Round 3 of answering questions from listeners. This time it’s about approaching the CPO mess post initiation season. What happened to our “Movie of the Week”? Damon and Damo discuss why they haven’t been reviewing movies/tv shows and discuss plans moving forward. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Active Duty E8 CY257 Quotas:

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Boards/Active%20Duty%20Enlisted/Documents/FY-24%20AD/FY24_AE8_QUOTAS.pdf?ver=oMHGZiBDDraScP0qpmDJNg%3d%3d

Active Duty E9 CY 257 Quotas:

https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Boards/Active%20Duty%20Enlisted/Documents/FY-24%20AD/FY24_AE9_QUOTAS.pdf?ver=OOlSSCpu8zPbftn7yT_bJw%3d%3d

Guardsman Applies to Be a Hitman:

https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2023/04/14/help-wanted-guardsman-applies-to-be-hitman-gets-arrested-instead/

Book of the Week:

Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity (Peter Attia, MD/ Bill Gifford)

https://peterattiamd.com/outlive/

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

”Goatfishing” Apr 24, 2023

Show notes

This episode starts with Damon getting a much deserved Disciplinary Review Board (DRB). The trio plays a little catch up to see how each other’s weeks were. Damo details the day that he spent with MCPON James Honea. Listen to Damo’s “bacon” story. Are we counting this against him or not? Tisha details her bittersweet Big Bear vacation. The trio discusses what they would do if the weren’t in the Navy. Do Better: Damo defines the term “goatfishing.” Damon explains to all the frugal Divos and Dept Heads, that it is not your money. Nasty Chief’s mugs are discussed again. Do you prefer a clean or dirty cup? Damon and Tisha shares sea stories of mugs being cleaned without express permission from their owners. Tisha talks about a personal issue going on at her command. Damo complains about “Big Navy” requiring essays for every little thing that you want to pursue. Why are CMDCMs so damn wise? The team gives Command Master Chiefs their flowers. With Tisha and Damo both going through major transitions in their careers, Damon asks them what their biggest concerns are. The purpose of having a board for “Sailor of the Year” is dissected. Are qualifications easier to attain when people are needed to stand the respective watches? Damon confesses his guilt regarding qualifying people before they were ready. The crew reflects on some things they regret from their last sea tours. Are too many Sailors being held accountable for things that they were never trained to do? With the recent shooting of Ralph Yarl, by 84-year old Andrew Lester, the team discusses guns, violence, and the state of the country when it comes to these topics. Congrats to Stephen Drum on the release of his book, “Life On The X” in audio format. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Ralph Yarl Shot by 84-Year Old Homeowner: https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/19/us/kansas-city-ralph-yarl-shooting-wednesday/index.html

Book of the Week:

Life On The X (Stephen Drum) - https://stephendrum.com/book-page/#

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

[BONUS EPISODE] ”Piggybacking The Piggyback” Apr 23, 2023

Show notes

*Recorded on April 13th*

Damon is back on ships and excited about his new experiences. Damo had a very close call with a bunch of poppy seeds. It could’ve gotten very bad for him. The guys discuss the prospects of TikTok being banned and weigh the pros and cons of the social media platform. Are civilians taking a potential war with China as seriously as they should? Actor Jonathan Majors has recently been in hot water due to an incident of domestic violence. This led to the Army removing a commercial in which he was the star. Nine soldiers were killed in an aerial collision, they guys send condolences to their families and honor them. Damon promised to give a shout out to everyone that let him know they made board. Unfortunately, Damon will not be shouting anyone out this episode. Recently a Fort Sill Commanding General was suspended as a result of violating hunting regulations. Tisha shows up and talks about how her cousin just checked into her command. Should board results be celebrated or is acknowledgment enough? Tisha questions the state of US currency. Damon and Damo are lost on this topic of course. Do Better: Damon address overly entitled Sailors who expect handouts and don’t want to “put the work in.” Damo talks about people who do anything for “clout.” A recent annual report was released covering sexual assault and sexual violence at military academies. The guys discuss. In analyzing the differences between “Battlestations” of the past and what we are doing now, the team discusses their battlestations experiences. These topics and more are covered in this special bonus episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Jonathan Majors’ Scrubbed Army Campaign - https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/jonathan-majors-arrest-scrubbed-army-ad-campaign-1235360997/

Black Hawk Training Incident - https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/31/politics/army-identifies-soldiers-killed-black-hawk-accident/index.html

Fort Sill Commanding General Suspended - https://www.kswo.com/2023/02/03/fort-sill-commanding-general-suspended-amid-investigation/#:~:text=Kenneth%20Kamper%20was%20suspended%20from,regulations%20around%20hunting%20on%20post

Military Academies Sexual Assault Survey - https://www.npr.org/2023/03/12/1162861309/military-academies-sexual-assault-survey

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

For PHAs - Press ”2” Apr 17, 2023

Show notes

Damo opens this episode addressing his recent issues with trying to get his Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) completed. Damon’s #DoBetter shines a light on the lack of the “teamwork” aspect that he’s witnessed during his recent ship visits. The guys discuss the importance of choosing the right mentor as opposed to finding someone that agrees with everything that you say. What are the pros and cons to choosing a mentor that’s in the same division as you? The guys play catch up, discussing Damon’s schedule as an assessor and Damo’s “Retirement Ceremony Uniform Mix Up.” Do you know how many ribbons you should have on your ribbon rack? If so, how do you know? Damo asks Damon a few “Integrity Questions.” Question No. 1: Have you ever ducked out of colors? Question No.2: Do you have any qualifications that you know you didn’t earn? The conversation leads Damo to reflect on the time he earned his Letter of Instruction (LOI). Congratulations to all our Reservist that made Senior Chief and Master Chief! Have you ever heard of a Spiritual/Non-Religious Chaplin? The guys haven’t either; they discuss. A former Navy Officer who was executed for the murder a junior Sailor will have his remains removed from Arlington National Cemetery. Our “Heroes” for this week is a Navy Search and Rescue team who that saved a snowmobiler in Washington. How do you prioritize? Damo discusses his theory about conversations. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

FY24 Navy Reserve E8 and E9 Advancement Selection Boards - https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Portals/55/Messages/NAVADMIN/NAV2023/NAV23085.txt?ver=DQa9IaaQ4edUDtdzy-8NfA%3d%3d

Sailor’s Killer To Be Removed from Arlington - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/04/12/sailors-killer-to-be-removed-from-arlington-thanks-to-new-law/

Hero of the Week:

Search and Rescue Team saves Snowmobiler - https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/04/07/navy-search-and-rescue-team-saves-snowmobiler-in-washington/

Book of the Week:

I Don’t Want to Talk About It (Terrence Real) - https://terryreal.com/product/i-dont-want-to-talk-about-it/

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” - Produced by Lim0

”Through The Fire” (Feat. Buddy Shorey) Apr 07, 2023

Show notes

About This Episode:

Tisha and Damo are joined by Buddy Shorey. Buddy is a military veteran, husband, father, and “dog dad.” Buddy also has an amazing story. He details his personal growth story of overcoming an addiction to prescription pills which ultimately resulted in him being separated from military service — to where he is today. He reflects on past mistakes, near death experiences, and finding the strength to self report. He talks about his best/worst experiences in the Navy, what keeps him grounded, and what he’s “addicted” to today. All of this and so more more a this episode that you do not want to miss. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

To get in contact with Mr. Shorey:

Instagram: @la_shorey14

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Oh, By the Way Ep. 11 - Popping Tall At Walmart Apr 04, 2023

Show notes

The thoughts and views expressed in this episode are the thoughts and views of the speakers and shall not be in any form associated with views of the Department of Defense and its components.

About This Episode:

Damon opens this with a question about if women have to be “perfect” to be able to compete in the work force. Damon shares a sea story about a woman Sailor feeling like her remarks were dismissed by a senior leader as a male who said the same thing had his points considered. This leads to a conversation about communication and how people receive language. Tisha gives her opinion about what she would do if she was in a situation in which she felt like she was being “looked over.” She talks a little more about “muting her feminine” nature.” Is there any value in “face time”? The crew gives their opinions on face time and how to effectively be seen without feeling like you’re kissing ass. Damon and Damo agree that they have to work on their tempers. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Are We Ready for A Four Day Work Week? Apr 02, 2023

Show notes

**DISCLAIMER**

The thoughts and views expressed in this episode are the thoughts and views of the speakers and shall not be in any form associated with views of the Department of Defense and its components.

**PLEASE READ**

We recorded an episode in March, however, due to multiple issues, we will not be able to release the episode. There were a few topics discussed that were we felt we needed to share, so we decided to release bits and pieces of the episode as “bonus episodes.” This is the first installment.

About This Episode:

Damon, Damo, and Tisha debate about four-day work weeks and discuss “pressure” when it comes to Sailors in the Navy. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Dear Fort Hood: We Need Answers Mar 31, 2023

Show notes

**DISCLAIMER**

The thoughts and views expressed in this episode are the thoughts and views of the speakers and shall not be in any form associated with views of the Department of Defense and its components.

**PLEASE READ**

About This Episode:

With the recent death of Pvt. Ana Balsalda Ruiz, the PTSF team discusses Fort Hood and what they perceive to be be flaws in the installations’ criminal investigation tactics. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

Pvt. Ana Balsalda Ruiz (The New York Times) - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/17/us/fort-hood-death-investigation-ana-basaldua-ruiz.html

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” (Produced by Lim0)

”The Outward Mindset” (Feat. Charles ”Chip” Huth) Mar 24, 2023

Show notes

**TRIGGER WARNING**

Depending on your life experiences, this episode may contain topics that have an emotional affect on you. We didn’t get too deep into details, but some of the conversations in this episode deal with domestic violence, abuse, and mental health conditions. Listen at your own discretion.

About Our Guest:

Charles “Chip” Huth is a retired executive commander of the the Kansas City Missouri Police department with 30-years of law enforcement experience. He led an internationally-recognized Tactical Enforcement Team for a decade and has planned, coordinated and executed over 2500 high-risk tactical operations. He is a licensed national defensive tactics trainer, a court-certified police practices expert, and the state of Missouri’s defensive tactics subject matter expert.

Chip currently serves a senior consultant for The Arbinger Institute. He is an adjunct professor for the University of Missouri—Kansas City and serves as a consultant for the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office. He was recognized as the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association’s Trainer of the Year in 2020, and is a member of the National Tactical Officers Association.

Chip is the President and CEO of CDH Consulting L.L.C., serving international law enforcement, military, and corporate clients. He is the past-president of the National Law Enforcement Training Center, a not-for-profit corporation delivering effective training to the international law enforcement, corrections, security and military communities.

Chip has 35-years of experience in the martial arts, with a background in competitive judo and kickboxing. He is an accomplished author and co-wrote “Unleashing the Power of Unconditional Respect-Transforming Law Enforcement and Police Training,” a text book used in promotional processes and graduate programs. Chip is a veteran of the United States Army.

About This Episode:

Damon, Damo, and Tisha talk with Chip about his turbulent childhood and how he went from sleeping is station-wagons to becoming a senior consultant for The Arbinger Institute, a recognized world-leader in improving organizational culture, conflict transformation, and changing mindset. Our most personal episode to date; everyone shares stories about their past, forgiveness, and dealing with issues with fathers. Chip discusses how the “Outward Mindset” changed his life and how it affects everything from professional to personal relationships. These topics and more are covered in this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast on TikTok, Facebook, Discord, Instagram, Twitter, and subscribe on YouTube.

Links and more from this episode:

To Keep up with “Chip” and find out more about the Arbinger institute:

Arbinger’s Website: www.arbinger.com

Chip’s Email: Chuth@arbinger.com.

Chip’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chip_Huth

For the Book: Unleashing the Power of Unconditional Respect: Transforming Law Enforcement and Police Training (Jack Cowell / Charles “Chip” Huth): https://www.amazon.com/Unleashing-Power-Unconditional-Respect-Transforming/dp/0367864487/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=UpRys&content-id=amzn1.sym.22f5776b-4878-4918-9222-7bb79ff649f4&pf_rd_p=22f5776b-4878-4918-9222-7bb79ff649f4&pf_rd_r=141-8466750-3997215&pd_rd_wg=HOzkr&pd_rd_r=3354873b-e6c3-414d-8373-a2253d24e4a3&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk

“The Importance of Mindset in Policing” | Chip Huth | Tedx Talks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_29TS6jjsA&t=26s&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

Keep up with the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast:

Our social media and Youtube - https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Additional Credits:

PTSF “Theme Music” (Produced by Lim0)