Join us on this captivating episode as we delve into the remarkable journey of Austin Berner. From his enduring aspiration to serve in the military since age five, through his unexpected path into the world of combat documentation, Austin's narrative is a unique blend of ambition, service, and creativity.

Listen in as Austin recounts his time documenting military operations in Afghanistan, the camaraderie with fellow soldiers, and the crucial role of combat cameramen in capturing history. Discover his candid insights into the filming battlefield dynamics and his contributions to missions ranging from humanitarian efforts in Central America to commemorative jumps on historic World War II sites.

Also, take a leap with Austin as he transitions from military service to soaring the skies with Delta Airlines, sharing stories from both the battlefield and the cabin. This episode is a tribute to resilience, dedication, and the enduring spirit of service across different arenas.

___________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary
#173rdInfantry

#comcam

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-390 | Austin Berner: Through the Lens of Combat

This episode dives into the origins and impact of the Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB). We unravel the fascinating journey of SFAB from its controversial inception, battling perceptions of trying to imitate Special Forces, to becoming a respected advisory unit within the military.

Our conversation touches upon the early challenges SFAB faced, including initial resistance from conventional military units and the importance of its unique mission in contemporary warfare. We also explore the significance of SFAB as a career opportunity for soldiers seeking to redefine their roles and attain new skills within the Army.

Join us as we share anecdotes, uncover insights into the SFAB's place within the broader military landscape, and reflect on its evolving legacy and relevance today.

___________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary


Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-391 | Origins and Impact of the Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB)

In this captivating episode, hosts delve into an engaging conversation with John Hensley, a veteran and talented musician. John shares his remarkable journey from his time in the Army Reserve to becoming a dedicated professional musician with a unique story to tell.

Listeners will be inspired by John's transition from military service to pursuing his passion for music, as he opens up about the challenges and triumphs along the way. The episode features insightful discussions about the therapeutic power of music and how John's personal experiences influence his songwriting.

John also treats listeners to live performances of his original songs, providing a glimpse into his creative process and the stories behind the lyrics. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the intersection between military life, personal growth, and the healing power of music.

___________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary


Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-392 | John Hensley: Veteran Musician and the Healing Power of Music

This episode dives deep into the journey of a seasoned veteran who transitions from high-stakes military operations to confronting personal struggles. Despite the challenges, he finds new purpose and meaning by leveraging his military skills to aid in disaster relief and impact the lives of others. Through candid discussions, discover the power of identity, mission, and community in reclaiming one's life after service. Join us for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, understanding self-worth, and the ongoing battle to make a positive impact in the world.

Adam Smith, a former Green Beret with 17 years of service, is outspoken in leadership, disaster relief, and operational consulting. As the founder of Savage Freedoms, he has built a movement that empowers individuals and businesses to operate at the highest levels of resilience, preparedness, and efficiency.

When Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, Smith didn’t wait for bureaucratic red tape—he mobilized a massive number of Special Operations Veterans and civilian volunteers which resulted in the formation of Savage Freedoms Relief Operations.

Their effort executed over 2,500 air sorties and countless ground missions to deliver life-saving supplies where FEMA and State Authorities dropped the ball. Since Helene SFRO has deployed to VA, WV, KY, CA, and Texas to provide support and assistance to those who have lost everything.

His expertise in logistics, crisis response, and leadership under pressure has made him a sought-after speaker and consultant, helping organizations and communities build the mindset and infrastructure to thrive in chaos.

__________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/


EP-393 | Adam R. Smith: U.S. Army Green Beret, Hurricane Helene and South Texas Disaster Relief

Part One of a 3-Part Series for 2025 as we approach the anniversary of Operation Gothic Serpent - "Black Hawk Down"

In this episode, Tara Harris, daughter of First Sergeant Glenn Harris, talks about her father and all of the men who served with him as part of Operation Gothic Serpent in Mogadishu, that became known as The Battle of Black Hawk Down based on the movie.

Today, Tara gathers photos, interviews, and archives to preserve the stories of her father, but also of all of B Company, 3rd Ranger Battalion before and after Operation Gothic Serpent, Somalia — including the Somalia deployment, the training and daily lives of Rangers of that period, and life then and now at the B Company 3/75 day room. She digitizes records and connects veterans and families so the Rangers’ experiences and legacies from Task Force Ranger are remembered and shared.

If you or someone you know has 75th Ranger Regiment photos, especially those from Mogadishu, email Tara at tharris75thrgrhistory@gmail.com 


__________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#taskforceranger #operationgothicserpent #armyrangers #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-397 | Daughter of Black Hawk Down Ranger First Sergeant: Preserving 1SG Glenn Harris’s Legacy

A Ranger recounts the sudden shift from training to chaos after the “boom” — helicopters struck, smoke and gunfire, and a race through Mogadishu to extract teammates. They focused on the Ranger Creed.

The episode traces Colonel Larry Perino's (then Lieutenant) path from West Point and Ranger training to Task Force Ranger in Somalia, describing fast‑rope assaults, ambushes, downed aircraft, and the desperate vehicle and foot exfil under heavy fire.

He reflects on the losses, survivor’s guilt, the duty to remember fallen comrades, and how the experience shaped leadership and care for soldiers afterward.

__________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#taskforceranger #160thsoar #operationgothicserpent #armyrangers #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-399 | Larry Perino, Never Leave a Fallen Comrade: A Ranger’s Account of Mogadishu

Episode 400 celebrates the podcast’s origin and impact: founders and early guests recount how honest, living-room conversations grew into a show focused on transition, purpose, PTSD, and real solutions. The episode revisits pivotal stories, treatments like stellate ganglion blocks, and the raw, organic approach that built an engaged community. Hosts invite listener topics and preview upcoming episodes while thanking supporters for helping the show reach this milestone.

A huge thank you to everyone who has listened and who follows us.

__________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#taskforceranger #160thsoar #operationgothicserpent #armyrangers #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-400: Reflecting on Our Roots and the Impact - Celebrating Our Journey and Community

In this episode, Zahraa shares her harrowing journey growing up in a strict village in Iraq, her decision to flee at 19, and a violent attack that led to an unexpected rescue by American soldiers at Baghdad International Airport.

She explains how faith and chance carried her through, her arrival in the United States, learning English, pursuing engineering studies, and ultimately joining the U.S. Army where she rose through the ranks as an enlisted cavalry scout and now as an officer in flight school who found purpose serving others.

Zahraa reflects on gratitude, the people who helped her, the losses that motivate her, and her commitment to inspire and protect other women and girls facing similar dangers. She is a proud American and also shares how fortunate Americans are to live in this country.

_________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#taskforceranger #160thsoar #operationgothicserpent #armyrangers #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-401 | Zahraa’s Escape from Iraq to Freedom and the U.S. Army

In this episode Alfred recounts his unexpected journey into the Marines, training as a K-9 handler, and the harrowing experience of an IED explosion in Afghanistan that cost him his dog, Grief, and left him seriously wounded. He shares the chaos of combat, the bond between handler and dog, and the long road of recovery.

Alfred also reflects on recruitment, boot camp, canine school, the losses among his unit, the healing power of reunions, and his decision to write Surviving with Grief to honor those who cannot speak for themselves.

_________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#marine #usmc #caninehandler #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-402 | Alfred Brenner: I Felt Like I Was Dying - A Marine K-9 Handler’s True Story

This episode explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping warfare — from ISR, targeting, drone swarms and decision support to the ethical risks of losing human control.

Guests share lessons from Ukraine and the Pacific, discuss limits like range and networks, and stress modernization, industry partnerships, and why leadership and soldiering fundamentals remain essential.

_________
Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mentors-for-military-podcast/id1072421783
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w4RiZBxBS8EDy6cuOlbUl

#drones #AI #artificialintelligence #mentors4mil 
#mentorsformilitary

Mentors4mil Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mentors4mil
Patreon Support: https://www.patreon.com/join/Mentors4mil 

Intro music "Long Way Down" by Silence & Light is used with permission.
Show Disclaimer: https://mentorsformilitary.com/disclaimer/

EP-403 | AI on the Battlefield: Who Pulls the Trigger?

Imagine a bunch of veterans sitting around a living room with their favorite adult beverage and someone brings up a topic that takes the conversation down a rabbit hole. That's our show. Grab a chair and your favorite beverage and join in on an awesome topic. Our hosts are military veterans and our guests are real people with a message to share. Real Talk. Real People. (aka Mentors4Mil)

New tracks tagged #jsoc