I would like to kick-off this final episode for this season of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life by saying thank you to everyone who listens to this podcast for continuing to listen, and to those entities which help to support this podcast by lending their support. Next season will include more of my experiences as a private security contractor overseas, as well as some more of my experiences as a private security contractor Stateside, and additional guests.
\n\nSo, then, until the next season, I wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving, a merry Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. And, remember, folks: it takes a team; the grass is not always greener on the other side; be careful what you wish for...you might just get it. Stay humble, stay safe, and keep others safe, by being aware and staying frosty. Until next time, keep it real!
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-11-07T10:15:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/107b5f6b-3aef-458d-b891-d4a938e0997d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":20253325,"duration_in_seconds":1032}]},{"id":"2b1ba6a7-2fca-491f-9e7c-0c95f4286865","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-29","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e29","content_text":"In this episode, I cover down, in a brief format, on the compilation of my seven years contracting overseas in four seasons -- acknowledging that, yes, in hindsight, I could have relatively easily stretched it out such that there was a clear season for each of the years contracting. I also, briefly, reference each of those years with the various companies on the various contracts and projects, promising that in the next season, season-5, next year (2025), to go back and do just that. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this episode, episode-29 of the fourth season of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life. Thank you for tuning in. And, if you like what you're hearing, pass it along to those you know.","content_html":"In this episode, I cover down, in a brief format, on the compilation of my seven years contracting overseas in four seasons -- acknowledging that, yes, in hindsight, I could have relatively easily stretched it out such that there was a clear season for each of the years contracting. I also, briefly, reference each of those years with the various companies on the various contracts and projects, promising that in the next season, season-5, next year (2025), to go back and do just that. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this episode, episode-29 of the fourth season of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life. Thank you for tuning in. And, if you like what you're hearing, pass it along to those you know.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-10-31T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/2b1ba6a7-2fca-491f-9e7c-0c95f4286865.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28165457,"duration_in_seconds":1415}]},{"id":"59467682-7af7-4670-b897-f764ffc7de12","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-28","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e28","content_text":"In this episode, I deviate from my story telling of some of the private security projects I was a part of in the States. I'll back to those at some point. In the meantime, I talk about what happens, physically, mentally, emotionally, psychologically when we return home for the final time and the dopamine and the adrenaline wear off? What happens when we recognize that we are not going back and now have to deal with different, sometimes completely different, issues?","content_html":"In this episode, I deviate from my story telling of some of the private security projects I was a part of in the States. I'll back to those at some point. In the meantime, I talk about what happens, physically, mentally, emotionally, psychologically when we return home for the final time and the dopamine and the adrenaline wear off? What happens when we recognize that we are not going back and now have to deal with different, sometimes completely different, issues?
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-10-17T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/59467682-7af7-4670-b897-f764ffc7de12.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27186203,"duration_in_seconds":1410}]},{"id":"75e13aac-b334-4ed9-b5d2-9fdbd2f0442c","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-27","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e27","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in the previous episode. In this episode I talk about, mostly, my experiences working on the Japanese Consulate project in Seattle, Washington. I also talk about, to some extent, again, about the failures of the standard private security model in the U-S -- as I see it.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in the previous episode. In this episode I talk about, mostly, my experiences working on the Japanese Consulate project in Seattle, Washington. I also talk about, to some extent, again, about the failures of the standard private security model in the U-S -- as I see it.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-10-10T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/75e13aac-b334-4ed9-b5d2-9fdbd2f0442c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30949970,"duration_in_seconds":1591}]},{"id":"64dbd63e-8182-4978-8cef-5fc90e963835","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-26","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e26","content_text":"I want to begin this episode by saying that I hope you enjoyed my previous episode with my special guest, Heath Hansen, as we talked about some of his experiences as a journalist, writing for Soldier of Fortune magazine, while along the Southern Border of the U.S.A. and Mexico. That said, in this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in the previous episodes. I continue talking about some of my private security project experiences in the United States. I talk about the reality of security, and the failed experiments of the standard private security model and the standard security mentality.","content_html":"I want to begin this episode by saying that I hope you enjoyed my previous episode with my special guest, Heath Hansen, as we talked about some of his experiences as a journalist, writing for Soldier of Fortune magazine, while along the Southern Border of the U.S.A. and Mexico. That said, in this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in the previous episodes. I continue talking about some of my private security project experiences in the United States. I talk about the reality of security, and the failed experiments of the standard private security model and the standard security mentality.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/64dbd63e-8182-4978-8cef-5fc90e963835.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30510706,"duration_in_seconds":1568}]},{"id":"69585e48-e1ad-4699-9655-e394c704dc81","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-25","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e25","content_text":"In this episode, I talk again with Heath Hansen -- former member of airborne infantry in the U-S Army, former LEO, private security contractor, and author/writer for Soldier of Fortune Magazine -- regarding his continued experiences covering down on the real goings on along the U-S/Mexico border, AKA: The Southern border. Heath Hansen has published at least thirty articles on the subject. His articles are available for reading at the SOF Magazine website at [ https://sofmag.com ]. What is going on down there for almost four years now might just surprise you -- especially to learn just how dire it really is.Special Guest: Heath Hansen.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk again with Heath Hansen -- former member of airborne infantry in the U-S Army, former LEO, private security contractor, and author/writer for Soldier of Fortune Magazine -- regarding his continued experiences covering down on the real goings on along the U-S/Mexico border, AKA: The Southern border. Heath Hansen has published at least thirty articles on the subject. His articles are available for reading at the SOF Magazine website at [ https://sofmag.com ]. What is going on down there for almost four years now might just surprise you -- especially to learn just how dire it really is.
Special Guest: Heath Hansen.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-09-26T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/69585e48-e1ad-4699-9655-e394c704dc81.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34483106,"duration_in_seconds":3192}]},{"id":"d7d6916d-98b6-4b69-8fff-daedd249f8f6","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-24","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e24","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I put a few finishing touches on the LCR/Three Dams project before discussing on a cursory level some of the many private security projects I have been a part of in the United States since and before.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I put a few finishing touches on the LCR/Three Dams project before discussing on a cursory level some of the many private security projects I have been a part of in the United States since and before.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-09-19T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/d7d6916d-98b6-4b69-8fff-daedd249f8f6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30181100,"duration_in_seconds":1526}]},{"id":"553967e3-0b78-4ae1-a271-0d6983336c72","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-23","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e23","content_text":"In this episode, I essentially put a wrap on my seven years as a PSC overseas, transitioning, for now, to some of my experiences as a PSC in the States. I will spend the next three to five episodes, maybe more, in this season talking mostly about some of my experiences as a PSC here in the States. I begin this episode talking a little bit about a project that I was tapped for to spend three days on a site visit for a federal contract along the borders of Washington and Oregon that a guy I know was bidding on.","content_html":"In this episode, I essentially put a wrap on my seven years as a PSC overseas, transitioning, for now, to some of my experiences as a PSC in the States. I will spend the next three to five episodes, maybe more, in this season talking mostly about some of my experiences as a PSC here in the States. I begin this episode talking a little bit about a project that I was tapped for to spend three days on a site visit for a federal contract along the borders of Washington and Oregon that a guy I know was bidding on.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/553967e3-0b78-4ae1-a271-0d6983336c72.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29310910,"duration_in_seconds":1511}]},{"id":"883c7df7-2adc-43f7-83ab-fca28f09d66c","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-22","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e22","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode -- mostly (I hope you enjoyed the previous episode with my guest Heath Hansen). In this episode, I pick up from there and continue my discussion on my experiences as camp site security manager for a base in North/Northwest Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode -- mostly (I hope you enjoyed the previous episode with my guest Heath Hansen). In this episode, I pick up from there and continue my discussion on my experiences as camp site security manager for a base in North/Northwest Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-08-28T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/883c7df7-2adc-43f7-83ab-fca28f09d66c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25262175,"duration_in_seconds":1280}]},{"id":"3791bc36-cd21-4bfd-be26-d3b1f4b9c082","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-21","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e21","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Heath Hansen, former member of airborne infantry in the U.S. Army. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Heath is a former police officer. He is currently a private security contractor in California and Texas, as well as writer for Soldier of Fortune magazine. We spend time discussing a great number of topics, including, to some extent, what is really going on along the southern border of the U.S. and Mexico, and some of the results of failed policies.Special Guest: Heath Hansen.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Heath Hansen, former member of airborne infantry in the U.S. Army. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Heath is a former police officer. He is currently a private security contractor in California and Texas, as well as writer for Soldier of Fortune magazine. We spend time discussing a great number of topics, including, to some extent, what is really going on along the southern border of the U.S. and Mexico, and some of the results of failed policies.
Special Guest: Heath Hansen.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-08-15T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/3791bc36-cd21-4bfd-be26-d3b1f4b9c082.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":54548484,"duration_in_seconds":5016}]},{"id":"02fbc9e0-bbc5-419b-aedd-d5b327d08033","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-20","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e20","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussions of my experiences as a private security contractor overseas while working for the company Blue Hackle in the country of Afghanistan, on this particular mission, in the role of acting camp site security manager.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussions of my experiences as a private security contractor overseas while working for the company Blue Hackle in the country of Afghanistan, on this particular mission, in the role of acting camp site security manager.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-08-08T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/02fbc9e0-bbc5-419b-aedd-d5b327d08033.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26123945,"duration_in_seconds":1319}]},{"id":"8d2bd19b-de64-426c-b800-e0402e9d1268","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-19","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e19","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, as I continue talking about my then current experiences as the acting camp site security manager at a special base North/Northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, as I continue talking about my then current experiences as the acting camp site security manager at a special base North/Northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-07-25T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/8d2bd19b-de64-426c-b800-e0402e9d1268.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28217861,"duration_in_seconds":1462}]},{"id":"1f72d059-8750-430d-957e-52d6fa2cc5cc","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-18","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e18","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, talking about my experiences as a private security contractor for the company Blue Hackle. At this point, I am the acting site security manager for a special camp on a base north/northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, talking about my experiences as a private security contractor for the company Blue Hackle. At this point, I am the acting site security manager for a special camp on a base north/northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1f72d059-8750-430d-957e-52d6fa2cc5cc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27744433,"duration_in_seconds":1439}]},{"id":"305b6254-ab40-485e-8776-e459cb5bf545","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-17","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e17","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my discussion of my time and experience as the acting camp site security manager on a special base north/northwest of Kabul in the country of Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my discussion of my time and experience as the acting camp site security manager on a special base north/northwest of Kabul in the country of Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/305b6254-ab40-485e-8776-e459cb5bf545.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29014035,"duration_in_seconds":1480}]},{"id":"3846f373-de87-48f2-816a-e6435c6a4248","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-16","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e16","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, talking about my time and experiences as a camp site security manager for Blue Hackle at a military installation north/northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, talking about my time and experiences as a camp site security manager for Blue Hackle at a military installation north/northwest of Kabul, Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-07-04T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/3846f373-de87-48f2-816a-e6435c6a4248.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27402111,"duration_in_seconds":1432}]},{"id":"f02b93b5-200c-451d-9ac6-1b60ac8a0dc0","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-15","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e15","content_text":"In this episode, I put a wrap on the physical security project I was doing as my last assignment at the Bagram Air Base prior to transitioning to a camp site security manager's position at a special base two to three hours northly of Bagram.","content_html":"In this episode, I put a wrap on the physical security project I was doing as my last assignment at the Bagram Air Base prior to transitioning to a camp site security manager's position at a special base two to three hours northly of Bagram.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/f02b93b5-200c-451d-9ac6-1b60ac8a0dc0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27730665,"duration_in_seconds":1361}]},{"id":"77e13804-20f3-42c6-b151-ac2c7eb89e06","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-14","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e14","content_text":"In this episode, I continue where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussion on my experiences with the PSC Blue Hackle while in afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I continue where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussion on my experiences with the PSC Blue Hackle while in afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-06-13T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/77e13804-20f3-42c6-b151-ac2c7eb89e06.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26032448,"duration_in_seconds":1331}]},{"id":"ab19d7e0-915d-4f4c-b63e-ff25cc40b6c4","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-13","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e13","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, correcting a few imbalances, talking briefly about my new job and role, the promise to come, and the utter surprise from those remaining on the ground that I was back.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, correcting a few imbalances, talking briefly about my new job and role, the promise to come, and the utter surprise from those remaining on the ground that I was back.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-05-23T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/ab19d7e0-915d-4f4c-b63e-ff25cc40b6c4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":22824646,"duration_in_seconds":1196}]},{"id":"7c5588a8-e3ae-44a3-a361-de5d20abdd37","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-12","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e12","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode. I briefly recap my departure from Bagram Air Base for a rotation home, my return, and the continuation of unprofessional conduct until the arrival of our third site security manager.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode. I briefly recap my departure from Bagram Air Base for a rotation home, my return, and the continuation of unprofessional conduct until the arrival of our third site security manager.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-05-16T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/7c5588a8-e3ae-44a3-a361-de5d20abdd37.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28934512,"duration_in_seconds":1528}]},{"id":"887a3d88-ece8-4a55-bebc-617b879a4023","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-11","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e11","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussion with the three failed site security managers we had while on project for Blue Hackle in the Bagram area of Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode as I continue my discussion with the three failed site security managers we had while on project for Blue Hackle in the Bagram area of Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-05-09T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/887a3d88-ece8-4a55-bebc-617b879a4023.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30198007,"duration_in_seconds":1539}]},{"id":"6984eebc-c499-4b51-aac1-7de7e82c6962","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-10","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e10","content_text":"In this episode, I resume where I left off in the previous episode as I continue the discussion of my experiences with the company Blue Hackle in the country of Afghanistan and, to some extent, of the failures of leadership and the struggles and challenges, and the tempers that occur when you are operating in a hostile region.","content_html":"In this episode, I resume where I left off in the previous episode as I continue the discussion of my experiences with the company Blue Hackle in the country of Afghanistan and, to some extent, of the failures of leadership and the struggles and challenges, and the tempers that occur when you are operating in a hostile region.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-05-02T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/6984eebc-c499-4b51-aac1-7de7e82c6962.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29245286,"duration_in_seconds":1411}]},{"id":"3acfc614-6908-4352-8f3c-9cb6c7213d35","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-9","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e9","content_text":"In this episode, I continue my discussion on the first of three security projects I was a part of with Blue Hackle in the Bagram and Kabul areas of operation. On the first project in Bagram, I pick up roughly week four. This is about the time when things started to show signs of cracks and break-downs, as well as the severe lack of leadership.","content_html":"In this episode, I continue my discussion on the first of three security projects I was a part of with Blue Hackle in the Bagram and Kabul areas of operation. On the first project in Bagram, I pick up roughly week four. This is about the time when things started to show signs of cracks and break-downs, as well as the severe lack of leadership.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-04-18T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/3acfc614-6908-4352-8f3c-9cb6c7213d35.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28022610,"duration_in_seconds":1431}]},{"id":"24984902-83d1-4cb9-989a-0fef88785176","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-8","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e8","content_text":"In this episode, I continue my discussion on my experiences with the private security contracting company Blue Hackle while working, again, in Afghanistan. In this episode I pick eup where I left off in the previous episode, somewhere between week two and week four of the project. I also speak to some leadership aspects and the failings of and how they can affect the outcome of a project or a mission.","content_html":"In this episode, I continue my discussion on my experiences with the private security contracting company Blue Hackle while working, again, in Afghanistan. In this episode I pick eup where I left off in the previous episode, somewhere between week two and week four of the project. I also speak to some leadership aspects and the failings of and how they can affect the outcome of a project or a mission.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-04-12T13:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/24984902-83d1-4cb9-989a-0fef88785176.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":23908400,"duration_in_seconds":1178}]},{"id":"358466f3-4af3-4a04-a2f3-2ca94d38839d","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-7","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e7","content_text":"In this episode, I continue my talk of my experiences as a PSC in Afghanistan while working in the Bagram area at the Bagram air base for the company Blue Hackle.","content_html":"In this episode, I continue my talk of my experiences as a PSC in Afghanistan while working in the Bagram area at the Bagram air base for the company Blue Hackle.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-04-04T13:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/358466f3-4af3-4a04-a2f3-2ca94d38839d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":20617578,"duration_in_seconds":1102}]},{"id":"fdbe154f-5c09-4572-9e8b-7d1a18a2a143","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-6","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e6","content_text":"In this episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life I talk with return guest Greg \"Doc\" Hesch, a veteran of the United States Air Force, a paramedic, private security contractor, and project consultant.Special Guest: Greg Hesch.","content_html":"In this episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life I talk with return guest Greg "Doc" Hesch, a veteran of the United States Air Force, a paramedic, private security contractor, and project consultant.
Special Guest: Greg Hesch.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-03-28T18:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/fdbe154f-5c09-4572-9e8b-7d1a18a2a143.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":45729698,"duration_in_seconds":4413}]},{"id":"fdde1405-92ed-4bc4-9ea6-41b2c85d13ad","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-5","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e5","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Damien Keenan, a veteran of the USMC and PSC. We had a great exchange on his experiences as a Marine, a cop, and as a contractor overseas -- along with the life lessons he's learned as a result.Special Guest: Damien Keenan.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Damien Keenan, a veteran of the USMC and PSC. We had a great exchange on his experiences as a Marine, a cop, and as a contractor overseas -- along with the life lessons he's learned as a result.
Special Guest: Damien Keenan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-03-21T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/fdde1405-92ed-4bc4-9ea6-41b2c85d13ad.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35063420,"duration_in_seconds":3053}]},{"id":"1d47aa2a-9d0b-4ab1-8cfb-bbdff8036e96","title":"OTCL: Season-4_Episode-4","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e4","content_text":"In this episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my talk about my experiences as a PSC/PMC, back in Afghanistan working with Blue Hackle.","content_html":"In this episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my talk about my experiences as a PSC/PMC, back in Afghanistan working with Blue Hackle.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-03-14T11:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1d47aa2a-9d0b-4ab1-8cfb-bbdff8036e96.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27131910,"duration_in_seconds":1379}]},{"id":"41e09724-d8ce-4e9b-ab7f-a203f63a6066","title":"OTCL: Season-4 Episode-3","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e3","content_text":"In this episode, I conclude my time with the WPS training regimen and transition into my next contract assignment in Afghanistan with the PSC company Blue Hackle. I spent nearly three years with Blue Hackle -- the same amount of time I spent my last years in Afghanistan. Which means that this will likely spill over into the next season.\n\nThanks for listening!","content_html":"In this episode, I conclude my time with the WPS training regimen and transition into my next contract assignment in Afghanistan with the PSC company Blue Hackle. I spent nearly three years with Blue Hackle -- the same amount of time I spent my last years in Afghanistan. Which means that this will likely spill over into the next season.
\n\nThanks for listening!
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-03-07T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/41e09724-d8ce-4e9b-ab7f-a203f63a6066.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26161359,"duration_in_seconds":1154}]},{"id":"0a495a28-0ec7-4b8c-a872-6a1dfe646ff8","title":"OTCL: Season-4 Episode-2","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e2","content_text":"In this episode, I almost complete this diversion of my next assignments to Afghanistan by almost concluding the WPS training program in New Mexico that I attended.","content_html":"In this episode, I almost complete this diversion of my next assignments to Afghanistan by almost concluding the WPS training program in New Mexico that I attended.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-02-29T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/0a495a28-0ec7-4b8c-a872-6a1dfe646ff8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":32250164,"duration_in_seconds":1438}]},{"id":"4dca9820-185c-4e0a-953a-43f16aad8915","title":"OTCL_Season-4_Episode-1","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls4e1","content_text":"In this episode of season-4 of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I pick up where I left off in season-3's final episode at approximately week-3 of the WPS instruction and training program for the State Department.","content_html":"In this episode of season-4 of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I pick up where I left off in season-3's final episode at approximately week-3 of the WPS instruction and training program for the State Department.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2024-02-23T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/4dca9820-185c-4e0a-953a-43f16aad8915.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":22385152,"duration_in_seconds":1110}]},{"id":"5a8f006c-e932-4835-b88c-1b3fa35e2fae","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-14","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e14","content_text":"Welcome everybody to the 14th episode in the 3rd season of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life. In this episode, I pick up where I left off in episode-13.\n\nThis is the final episode for this season as OCONUS: The Contractor's Life will be taking its usual seasonal break for the remainder of this year, resuming sometime next year, on or about the month of February in 2024.\n\nThat said, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life wishes you a very happy Thanksgiving, a very merry Christmas, and, hopefully, a very happy upcoming New Year. Remember, folks, it takes a team; the grass is not always greener on the other side; be careful what you wish for because you might just get it. Stay frosty. And, until next time, keep it real.","content_html":"Welcome everybody to the 14th episode in the 3rd season of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life. In this episode, I pick up where I left off in episode-13.
\n\nThis is the final episode for this season as OCONUS: The Contractor's Life will be taking its usual seasonal break for the remainder of this year, resuming sometime next year, on or about the month of February in 2024.
\n\nThat said, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life wishes you a very happy Thanksgiving, a very merry Christmas, and, hopefully, a very happy upcoming New Year. Remember, folks, it takes a team; the grass is not always greener on the other side; be careful what you wish for because you might just get it. Stay frosty. And, until next time, keep it real.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-11-22T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/5a8f006c-e932-4835-b88c-1b3fa35e2fae.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29197808,"duration_in_seconds":1386}]},{"id":"a6524b56-a527-4190-a2eb-ebc022ef7c8f","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-13","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e13","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my experiences in the WPS program prior to heading back overseas.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episode, continuing my experiences in the WPS program prior to heading back overseas.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a6524b56-a527-4190-a2eb-ebc022ef7c8f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":27683960,"duration_in_seconds":1321}]},{"id":"e6249c0c-1495-49bc-bf65-1435285bf2ed","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-12","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e12","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episdode as I continue my adventure on the WPS training program with the company Aegis.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up where I left off in the previous episdode as I continue my adventure on the WPS training program with the company Aegis.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-11-09T13:30:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/e6249c0c-1495-49bc-bf65-1435285bf2ed.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29233660,"duration_in_seconds":1396}]},{"id":"d59a8eab-c5f7-4031-8951-926488975438","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-11","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e11","content_text":"In this episode, I skip going back to Iraq -- been there, done that. I will go back to Iraq, along with other areas, in a compilation series that will comprise all the topics and subjects that I either skipped, forgot to mention, or otherwise left out. For now, I'm back to Afghanistan, on another project for another company but only after taking a detour through the State of New Mexico for seven weeks of instruction and training in the run-up for the WPS program.","content_html":"In this episode, I skip going back to Iraq -- been there, done that. I will go back to Iraq, along with other areas, in a compilation series that will comprise all the topics and subjects that I either skipped, forgot to mention, or otherwise left out. For now, I'm back to Afghanistan, on another project for another company but only after taking a detour through the State of New Mexico for seven weeks of instruction and training in the run-up for the WPS program.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/d59a8eab-c5f7-4031-8951-926488975438.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":21588784,"duration_in_seconds":1515}]},{"id":"741f79a9-a5db-421c-bee8-6d7d88ba8c04","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-10","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e10","content_text":"In this episode, I finally get back to Iraq. I discuss, briefly, in this episode, my initial introduction to the new company, Torres, and its culture after having left the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan with the company EODT.","content_html":"In this episode, I finally get back to Iraq. I discuss, briefly, in this episode, my initial introduction to the new company, Torres, and its culture after having left the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan with the company EODT.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-10-19T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/741f79a9-a5db-421c-bee8-6d7d88ba8c04.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":18175797,"duration_in_seconds":1263}]},{"id":"413a5121-9cab-4e34-b8bf-e9091bbdddcd","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-9","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e9","content_text":"","content_html":"","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-10-12T14:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/413a5121-9cab-4e34-b8bf-e9091bbdddcd.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":17798511,"duration_in_seconds":1273}]},{"id":"997f6233-6064-4fc4-8443-ce4daeb9ff4b","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-8","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e8","content_text":"In this episode, I put a wrap on my time in the Country of Afghanistan for now as I transition to my time, again, in the Country of Iraq. I conclude with some talks of what it takes to be a private security contractor OCONUS.","content_html":"In this episode, I put a wrap on my time in the Country of Afghanistan for now as I transition to my time, again, in the Country of Iraq. I conclude with some talks of what it takes to be a private security contractor OCONUS.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/997f6233-6064-4fc4-8443-ce4daeb9ff4b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":20796234,"duration_in_seconds":1483}]},{"id":"7b780493-58f1-4ec2-b254-be59d2d75669","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-7","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e7","content_text":"In this episode, I continue my discussions/recollections of my time as a private security contractor in the area of the Nangurhar Province/Jalalabad region of Afghanistan.","content_html":"In this episode, I continue my discussions/recollections of my time as a private security contractor in the area of the Nangurhar Province/Jalalabad region of Afghanistan.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-10-03T12:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/7b780493-58f1-4ec2-b254-be59d2d75669.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":16765981,"duration_in_seconds":1175}]},{"id":"9ae7a177-c3e7-43d8-8b26-7899b9866398","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-6","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e6","content_text":"In this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in episode five of season three as I talk more of some of my experiences while working in the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan while with EODT. I also talk, to some extent, about some of my experiences working CONUS.","content_html":"In this episode, I pick up, more or less, where I left off in episode five of season three as I talk more of some of my experiences while working in the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan while with EODT. I also talk, to some extent, about some of my experiences working CONUS.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-08-24T12:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/9ae7a177-c3e7-43d8-8b26-7899b9866398.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":21141529,"duration_in_seconds":1544}]},{"id":"09f02c37-ea41-4cce-9dce-44f9b0e9bbf3","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-5","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e5","content_text":"In this episode, I return to where I left off, more or less, in Season-2, discussing some of my time and experiences while working in Afghanistan as a private security contractor.","content_html":"In this episode, I return to where I left off, more or less, in Season-2, discussing some of my time and experiences while working in Afghanistan as a private security contractor.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-05-25T11:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/09f02c37-ea41-4cce-9dce-44f9b0e9bbf3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":12581765,"duration_in_seconds":1261}]},{"id":"08fe88c4-1372-42e9-9268-bc39a87443d3","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-4","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e4","content_text":"In this episode, I talk more of the benefits of physical conditioning, the mind, body, spirit synergy, embracing the pain, as well as some of the considerations one should look to when deciding who to select for your bodyguard and or security team.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk more of the benefits of physical conditioning, the mind, body, spirit synergy, embracing the pain, as well as some of the considerations one should look to when deciding who to select for your bodyguard and or security team.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-05-11T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/08fe88c4-1372-42e9-9268-bc39a87443d3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":39287581,"duration_in_seconds":2059}]},{"id":"007e4ee5-cb36-43bf-9749-11ea8c3fb415","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life Season-3 Episode-3","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e3","content_text":"In this episode, I clarify what was, apparently, a confusing statement in the previous episode before waxing long on one of the keys in the PSC industry -- physical fitness.","content_html":"In this episode, I clarify what was, apparently, a confusing statement in the previous episode before waxing long on one of the keys in the PSC industry -- physical fitness.
","summary":"A discussion on the life of a private security contractor overseas, away from his or her country, in a foreign land, often contrary and hostile to his or her way of life.","date_published":"2023-05-05T13:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/007e4ee5-cb36-43bf-9749-11ea8c3fb415.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35061046,"duration_in_seconds":1834}]},{"id":"05a152ff-be9e-4a1f-bb3e-38685241cd2d","title":"OTCL: Season-3 Episode-2","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e2","content_text":"In this episode, I recap the thread I ended on near the end of Season-2, expounding on a few topics, with a promise to pick up where I left off and continue the march forward in a coherent thread.","content_html":"In this episode, I recap the thread I ended on near the end of Season-2, expounding on a few topics, with a promise to pick up where I left off and continue the march forward in a coherent thread.
","summary":"A discussion of life overseas as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2023-04-27T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/05a152ff-be9e-4a1f-bb3e-38685241cd2d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":31523706,"duration_in_seconds":1641}]},{"id":"27cea72c-7ba6-41b8-a025-be6d0fcf669c","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life Season-3 Episode-1","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/otcls3e1","content_text":"In this episode, I talk, briefly, about what contractors do in their down-time, and how we are different but not so much so on a humanitarian level. From our past-times and hobbies to our passions for freedom and individual liberties.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk, briefly, about what contractors do in their down-time, and how we are different but not so much so on a humanitarian level. From our past-times and hobbies to our passions for freedom and individual liberties.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk, briefly, about what contractors do in their down-time, and how we are different but not so much so on a humanitarian level.","date_published":"2023-04-20T14:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/27cea72c-7ba6-41b8-a025-be6d0fcf669c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25713599,"duration_in_seconds":1258}]},{"id":"80420de9-9cb7-4e87-84f9-6d60f12fdf93","title":"Season-2 Episode-29","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e29","content_text":"Douglas Hardman is a former member of the U.S. Army, and a private security contractor. While in the Army, he deployed to Eastern Europe. Since then, he has worked stateside on various private security projects. Douglas is currently employed by a a well known executive protection company. He is also chasing down another college degree. Ultimately, unless another war kicks off, requiring private security contractors, Douglas is eyeing the WPS program with the State Department.Special Guest: Douglas Hardman.","content_html":"Douglas Hardman is a former member of the U.S. Army, and a private security contractor. While in the Army, he deployed to Eastern Europe. Since then, he has worked stateside on various private security projects. Douglas is currently employed by a a well known executive protection company. He is also chasing down another college degree. Ultimately, unless another war kicks off, requiring private security contractors, Douglas is eyeing the WPS program with the State Department.
Special Guest: Douglas Hardman.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Douglas Hardman -- former member of the U.S. Army, and private security contractor.","date_published":"2022-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/80420de9-9cb7-4e87-84f9-6d60f12fdf93.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":28180715,"duration_in_seconds":4328}]},{"id":"1485cd12-72a5-4a17-8c39-34ba514f2f75","title":"Season-2 Episode-27","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e27","content_text":"","content_html":"","summary":"In this episode I digress and rant about the abysmal state of the standard private security model -- primarily in the U.S.","date_published":"2022-11-10T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1485cd12-72a5-4a17-8c39-34ba514f2f75.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":37549951,"duration_in_seconds":2017}]},{"id":"73f844ba-2b85-4ab0-ac15-87549aad3ff4","title":"Season-2 Episode-26","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e26","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Ken Gouchi, former U.S. Army and host of Wienerfied dot com, and David Maestas, retired U.S. Army, and founder of Discover Maestro.\n\nThis episode also prefaces upcoming changes and or new items as I and the two men who contributed to this episode have agreed to start another podcast, arguably more likely a videocast, that will be available across numerous platforms. I hope you enjoy it.Special Guests: Dave Maestas and Ken Gouchi.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Ken Gouchi, former U.S. Army and host of Wienerfied dot com, and David Maestas, retired U.S. Army, and founder of Discover Maestro.
\n\nThis episode also prefaces upcoming changes and or new items as I and the two men who contributed to this episode have agreed to start another podcast, arguably more likely a videocast, that will be available across numerous platforms. I hope you enjoy it.
Special Guests: Dave Maestas and Ken Gouchi.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Ken Gouchi, former U.S. Army and host of Wienerfied dot com, and David Maestas, retired U.S. Army, and founder of Discover Maestro.","date_published":"2022-11-03T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/73f844ba-2b85-4ab0-ac15-87549aad3ff4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":85089613,"duration_in_seconds":8509}]},{"id":"e09512eb-1b74-4bb9-978a-cc96f7c8c205","title":"Season-2 Episode-25","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e25","content_text":"In this episode, I take an unceremonious departure from Afghanistan, going back to Iraq. I will be going back to Afghanistan in order to revisit and complete the segment for that portion of my time in Afghanistan prior to going back to Iraq. And, then, back to Afghanistan for the final two years or so that I spent there prior to calling it quits.\n\nOnce that is completed, I fully intend to jump around the map, so to speak, in order to cover down on subjects obliquely referenced, and talking about subjects as they come to mind, as well as talking with guests and contributors.\n\nThis podcast has been, and likely always will be, a work in progress. I appreciate your patronage.","content_html":"In this episode, I take an unceremonious departure from Afghanistan, going back to Iraq. I will be going back to Afghanistan in order to revisit and complete the segment for that portion of my time in Afghanistan prior to going back to Iraq. And, then, back to Afghanistan for the final two years or so that I spent there prior to calling it quits.
\n\nOnce that is completed, I fully intend to jump around the map, so to speak, in order to cover down on subjects obliquely referenced, and talking about subjects as they come to mind, as well as talking with guests and contributors.
\n\nThis podcast has been, and likely always will be, a work in progress. I appreciate your patronage.
","summary":"In this episode, I take an unceremonious departure from Afghanistan, going back to Iraq.","date_published":"2022-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/e09512eb-1b74-4bb9-978a-cc96f7c8c205.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":26766198,"duration_in_seconds":1980}]},{"id":"d70c9ea1-a61f-40e9-a1e0-be72f87b7900","title":"Season-2 Episode-24","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e24","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.Special Guest: Dave Maestas.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
Special Guest: Dave Maestas.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with friend Dave Maestas, and founder of Discover Maestro.","date_published":"2022-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/d70c9ea1-a61f-40e9-a1e0-be72f87b7900.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":50931248,"duration_in_seconds":4761}]},{"id":"68d1a037-135b-4d85-a565-4c9209eb6b9f","title":"Season-2 Episode-23","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e23","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk about, primarily, the differences between standard private security and non-standard private security.","date_published":"2022-10-06T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/68d1a037-135b-4d85-a565-4c9209eb6b9f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46106486,"duration_in_seconds":2404}]},{"id":"7f627bf3-71d0-40d8-be93-9b8ac80f5211","title":"Season-2 Episode-22","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e22","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk more of my time and experiences while working in the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan.","date_published":"2022-09-29T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/7f627bf3-71d0-40d8-be93-9b8ac80f5211.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42998762,"duration_in_seconds":2226}]},{"id":"861fec2d-c6b8-4784-ae2a-d8109b239d73","title":"Season-2 Episode-21","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e21","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk more of my time with EODT while working in the Jalalabad region of Afghanistan.","date_published":"2022-09-22T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/861fec2d-c6b8-4784-ae2a-d8109b239d73.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49322707,"duration_in_seconds":2430}]},{"id":"9c8b2c16-8428-4655-9abd-78cf089aaba3","title":"Season-2 Episode-20","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e20","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I continue with my experiences as a PSC in Iraq, moving from my relatively brief time with then SOC-SMG and moving over to EODT.","date_published":"2022-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/9c8b2c16-8428-4655-9abd-78cf089aaba3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49827373,"duration_in_seconds":2619}]},{"id":"b955c717-dba0-423e-92fd-fe996ab51deb","title":"Season-2 Episode-19","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e19","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk more about my first deployment to Iraq as a PSC. I also clarify my comments on the distinction between OCONUS and Overseas. I also talk about some of the differences between contracting overseas and working stateside.","date_published":"2022-07-28T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/b955c717-dba0-423e-92fd-fe996ab51deb.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48592030,"duration_in_seconds":2617}]},{"id":"2dafbe08-67f0-49c6-b07f-184a9e08011b","title":"Season-2 Episode-18","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e18","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I finally transition from Kuwait to Iraq. I also talk, briefly, about my experiences between Kuwait and Iraq prior to deploying as a PSC to Iraq, as well as my initial experiences the first couple of weeks on the ground in Iraq.","date_published":"2022-07-21T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/2dafbe08-67f0-49c6-b07f-184a9e08011b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46782297,"duration_in_seconds":2362}]},{"id":"71dc5c33-ec81-4417-a5de-770c4cfe0807","title":"Season-2 Episode-17","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e17","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I put a more or less final wrap on my experiences as a PSC in Kuwait. Future episodes for this season will revolve around Iraq and Afghanistan. Occasional reminders of my time in Kuwait when and as it seems relevant and or pertinent to the conversation.","date_published":"2022-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/71dc5c33-ec81-4417-a5de-770c4cfe0807.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":60885624,"duration_in_seconds":3097}]},{"id":"0e15ed15-6edf-44b7-921c-e003c864efd4","title":"Season-2 Episode-16","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e16","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, among other items of discussion, I talk about private security contracts around the globe.","date_published":"2022-07-07T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/0e15ed15-6edf-44b7-921c-e003c864efd4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47283517,"duration_in_seconds":2389}]},{"id":"1fad8906-1232-4dd0-9b9c-a43355b24afa","title":"Season-2 Episode-15","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e15","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, among other things, I discuss what motivates a person to leave their happy life and work in a foreign country as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2022-06-30T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1fad8906-1232-4dd0-9b9c-a43355b24afa.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":40068797,"duration_in_seconds":2110}]},{"id":"45ba969c-927d-4786-8c0a-b23c566e30e6","title":"Season-2 Episode-14","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e14","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk about the differences between instruction and training; to some extent, the drive and motivation it takes to make it; giving others a chance -- if they deserve it; and why military veterans and LEO veterans are sought for high-risk, high-threat security.","date_published":"2022-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/45ba969c-927d-4786-8c0a-b23c566e30e6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":40214268,"duration_in_seconds":2100}]},{"id":"ea75dea8-bfba-428e-9257-1b52a9ccfd99","title":"Season-2 Episode-13","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e13","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk about the legendary and mythical status heaped upon the PSC industry; the levels of instruction and training; and the plethora of smack talkers and talk the talkers.","date_published":"2022-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/ea75dea8-bfba-428e-9257-1b52a9ccfd99.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":39361488,"duration_in_seconds":2054}]},{"id":"cc9aae49-6bde-4c3b-9673-87b2dc31063a","title":"Season-2 Episode-12","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e12","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk about the advantages of being a truly independent I9 private security contractor; taxes; all the Jason Bournes; and other items.","date_published":"2022-06-09T10:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/cc9aae49-6bde-4c3b-9673-87b2dc31063a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":45905416,"duration_in_seconds":2345}]},{"id":"8904b3ef-65a3-4dd9-bcb9-117e8b425aab","title":"Season-2 Episode-11","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e11","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.Special Guest: Tarek Kadourah.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
Special Guest: Tarek Kadourah.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with my friend Tarek Kadourah about his experiences -- from emigrating to the U.S. to contracting.","date_published":"2022-06-02T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/8904b3ef-65a3-4dd9-bcb9-117e8b425aab.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":61240614,"duration_in_seconds":6409}]},{"id":"ebc21fbc-40d1-43fa-b5a9-ad86d957ee66","title":"Season-2 Episode-10","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e10","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode I discuss more of the things one should consider prior to becoming a private security contractor or a mercenary OCONUS/overseas.","date_published":"2022-05-26T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/ebc21fbc-40d1-43fa-b5a9-ad86d957ee66.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42711420,"duration_in_seconds":2175}]},{"id":"1c0519a5-76df-4980-872a-c3b0fb54ee1f","title":"Season-2 Episode-9","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e9","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode I jump around a bit -- from Kuwait to Iraq to Afghanistan then back to Kuwait -- like a former PSC who has had too much coffee.","date_published":"2022-05-19T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1c0519a5-76df-4980-872a-c3b0fb54ee1f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34688072,"duration_in_seconds":1777}]},{"id":"daa28220-f9a3-426d-b0c4-fd770c54d63b","title":"Season-2 Episode-8","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e8","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is now a seasonal and mostly weekly podcast that explores the often murky and sometimes shadowy world of the private security contractor. Private security contractors exist in nearly every nation. They work on land, on the sea, and in the air. The duties they perform are almost limitless. At times, skewing the traditional divisions between military and civilian.
\n\nDuring the first season, OCONUS: The Contractor's Life interviews and discusses with other private security contractors, showcasing their unique perspective and experiences. In this, the second season, while there will be some of that, the focus is on the experiences of the host of the podcast.
\n\nSo, what is it really like to be a private security contractor -- especially outside your home country? Tune in to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life to find out.
","summary":"In this episode, amongst other topics, I discuss the requirements for instruction, training and experience for many to most private security contractors in a hostile, war-torn zone.","date_published":"2022-05-12T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/daa28220-f9a3-426d-b0c4-fd770c54d63b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48088113,"duration_in_seconds":2382}]},{"id":"2ea070b7-7534-46b1-b653-0a22080f1383","title":"Season-2 Episode-7","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e7","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is a podcast that talks about, discusses, and occasionally interviews others, life as a private security contractor in hostile, war torn zones. We talk about, discuss the real-life, practical aspects of a PSC. From multi-days flights to extended lay-overs, to the sights, sounds, and scents -- experiences -- of those who served in the capacity of a private security contractor durint times of war. And, yes, occasionally those who were not nor have any plans of being a private security contractor but worked with and or interacted with private security contractors. We talk about, and discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly in private security contracting.\n\nIt is not our intention to be selacious. We are not whistle blowers. We don't divulge secrets. But we do attempt to tell it like it was, and how it is.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life is a podcast that talks about, discusses, and occasionally interviews others, life as a private security contractor in hostile, war torn zones. We talk about, discuss the real-life, practical aspects of a PSC. From multi-days flights to extended lay-overs, to the sights, sounds, and scents -- experiences -- of those who served in the capacity of a private security contractor durint times of war. And, yes, occasionally those who were not nor have any plans of being a private security contractor but worked with and or interacted with private security contractors. We talk about, and discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly in private security contracting.
\n\nIt is not our intention to be selacious. We are not whistle blowers. We don't divulge secrets. But we do attempt to tell it like it was, and how it is.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk some more about the nuances, the little things, about being a private security contractor in a hostile, war-torn zone.","date_published":"2022-05-05T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/2ea070b7-7534-46b1-b653-0a22080f1383.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42387261,"duration_in_seconds":2128}]},{"id":"19376dc5-486b-4bfb-8e1a-22396186a04b","title":"Season-2_Episode-6","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e6","content_text":"","content_html":"","summary":"In this episode, I inadvertently stray away from Kuwait and discuss the experience of friends, friends, and more friends, and their importance, sometimes unbeknown to us, in life.","date_published":"2022-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/19376dc5-486b-4bfb-8e1a-22396186a04b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42865552,"duration_in_seconds":2149}]},{"id":"205c5ed8-948c-4a75-af05-94ea9e8055b8","title":"Season-2_Episode-5","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e5","content_text":"","content_html":"","summary":"In this episode I discuss the value of friendship while working overseas, as well as a few, or more, of my experiences as a private security contractor working OCONUS.","date_published":"2022-04-21T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/205c5ed8-948c-4a75-af05-94ea9e8055b8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49517299,"duration_in_seconds":2476}]},{"id":"9d53d880-487d-4930-b61f-e143e7e8b5d8","title":"Season-2 Episode-4","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e4","content_text":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life takes a look at the real-world lifestyle and experiences of those who serve the interests of the United States in the roles of private security contractors. In this, the second season, primarily, my experiences as a private security contractor working OCONUS. While not an expose nor a whistleblower forum, the podcast does, to some extent, discuss the difficulties and challenges that everyone faces at some point in their life as a private security contractor. I/we do discuss some of those issues, and to some extent, in detail.\n\nHowever, because PSC comprises only approximately ten percent of the overall contractor pool, it only seems fitting that some to many of the guests would be those who fulfilled roles other than private security.","content_html":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life takes a look at the real-world lifestyle and experiences of those who serve the interests of the United States in the roles of private security contractors. In this, the second season, primarily, my experiences as a private security contractor working OCONUS. While not an expose nor a whistleblower forum, the podcast does, to some extent, discuss the difficulties and challenges that everyone faces at some point in their life as a private security contractor. I/we do discuss some of those issues, and to some extent, in detail.
\n\nHowever, because PSC comprises only approximately ten percent of the overall contractor pool, it only seems fitting that some to many of the guests would be those who fulfilled roles other than private security.
","summary":"In this episode, I continue my solo discussion of my experiences OCONUS as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2022-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/9d53d880-487d-4930-b61f-e143e7e8b5d8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":40539946,"duration_in_seconds":2113}]},{"id":"4585a695-d6e1-43ba-847f-c108f6505381","title":"OCONUSTCL: Season-2_Episode-3","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/season-2-episode-3","content_text":"In this episode, while I make oblique references to Iraq and Afghanistan, my focus is still on my experiences as a private security contractor on my first contract in the country of Kuwait.\n\nWhy spend so much time detailing my time in Kuwait, you ask? Especially when the juicy stuff awaits? Perhaps it is because it is analagous to one's first love. If you understand that analogy then you will understand why I am spending so much time in Kuwait, laying the groundwork, so to speak. Because everything I became in my latter years as a private security contractor, save my military experience in the 1980's, was a direct result of my experiences in Kuwait.","content_html":"In this episode, while I make oblique references to Iraq and Afghanistan, my focus is still on my experiences as a private security contractor on my first contract in the country of Kuwait.
\n\nWhy spend so much time detailing my time in Kuwait, you ask? Especially when the juicy stuff awaits? Perhaps it is because it is analagous to one's first love. If you understand that analogy then you will understand why I am spending so much time in Kuwait, laying the groundwork, so to speak. Because everything I became in my latter years as a private security contractor, save my military experience in the 1980's, was a direct result of my experiences in Kuwait.
","summary":"In this episode, I continue the discussion of my experiences as a private security contractor overseas.","date_published":"2022-04-07T14:45:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/4585a695-d6e1-43ba-847f-c108f6505381.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36660418,"duration_in_seconds":1940}]},{"id":"a4b03abb-7657-4793-82b8-c19c8b8fda26","title":"Season-2 Episode-2","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e2","content_text":"As promised previously, this season's eisodes will be shorter -- on average, around 30-minutes in length. To be sure, there will be episodes that are longer, particularly those with guests.\n\nIn this episode, I start just before my enlistment into the United States Marine Corps, transitioning into my first contract OCONUS in the Summer of 2007.","content_html":"As promised previously, this season's eisodes will be shorter -- on average, around 30-minutes in length. To be sure, there will be episodes that are longer, particularly those with guests.
\n\nIn this episode, I start just before my enlistment into the United States Marine Corps, transitioning into my first contract OCONUS in the Summer of 2007.
","summary":"In this episode, I begin the discussion of my experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2022-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a4b03abb-7657-4793-82b8-c19c8b8fda26.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":45248811,"duration_in_seconds":2010}]},{"id":"44cd8efc-7002-4357-8ee3-e270e58fd63f","title":"Season-2 Episode-1 with Ken Gouchi","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s2e1-ken-gouchi","content_text":"Ken is a former member of the U.S. Army. Ken made it through SFAS, made it to the Q-course but was subsequently released prior to completion of the Q-course due to a medical injury.\n\nKen has worked as a private security contractor Stateside in the United States, and now owns a construction firm. He is also the owner and host of Inked Warrior Ministries and Wienerfied: Real Talk with Real Men.Special Guest: Ken Gouchi.Links:Wienerfied — Wienerfied dot com is owned and hosted by Ken Gouchi -- an American patriot, U.S. military veteran, PSC, and general contractor in the construction industry. His podcast can also be found at Rumble. Search for \"Wienerfied: Real Talk with Real Men.\"","content_html":"Ken is a former member of the U.S. Army. Ken made it through SFAS, made it to the Q-course but was subsequently released prior to completion of the Q-course due to a medical injury.
\n\nKen has worked as a private security contractor Stateside in the United States, and now owns a construction firm. He is also the owner and host of Inked Warrior Ministries and Wienerfied: Real Talk with Real Men.
Special Guest: Ken Gouchi.
Links:
In this epsisode I talk with the dynamic duo of Greg "Doc" Hesch and Mike "Doc" Riche. Both are veterans of the United States Military, former Private Security Contractors overseas, and Paramedics. Both have spent time overseas in war zones. Neither are strangers to the damage violence can impart to the human body.
\n\nWe spend the bulk of our time discussing many of the medical issues of contracting from the tactical perspective. We also discuss the differences between tactical medicine as practiced in conflict zones versus medical treatment practiced in non-conflict zones -- such as in the United States.
Special Guests: Greg Hesch and Mike Riche.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with \"Doc\" Hesch and \"Doc\" Riche about their combined experiences.","date_published":"2021-04-16T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/5a20aee7-24c4-4486-a52d-b10db67f084c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":80829183,"duration_in_seconds":7627}]},{"id":"7ca5f1d1-092f-4fb9-a92f-cee99f1afa9d","title":"Episode 40 with Greg Hesch","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode40","content_text":"In this episode, I talk again with Greg Hesch -- former member of the United States Air Force, Paramedic, Wild Land Firefighter, and Private Security Contractor. Greg and I recap his background and history prior to becoming a private security contractor. We briefly spend time discussing his experiences as a private security contractor overseas, spending the bulk of the time discussing a variety of topics related to the private security industry as a whole.Special Guest: Greg Hesch.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk again with Greg Hesch -- former member of the United States Air Force, Paramedic, Wild Land Firefighter, and Private Security Contractor. Greg and I recap his background and history prior to becoming a private security contractor. We briefly spend time discussing his experiences as a private security contractor overseas, spending the bulk of the time discussing a variety of topics related to the private security industry as a whole.
Special Guest: Greg Hesch.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk again with Greg Hesch -- former member of the United States Air Force, Paramedic, Wild Land Firefighter, and Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2021-04-09T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/7ca5f1d1-092f-4fb9-a92f-cee99f1afa9d.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48273151,"duration_in_seconds":4655}]},{"id":"558479d9-d48c-4f3e-a197-32a7a474a2f6","title":"Episode 39 with Dave Williams","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode39","content_text":"Dave Williams is a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and a Private Security Contractor. I talk with Dave about his experiences as a PSC. We also spend a fair amount of time discussing what new people in the industry should consider and why.\n\nPreviously, we discussed, primarily, his experiences working overseas. While we re-cap most of his experiences in this episode, we spend the brunt of our time talking about the things new people in the industry should consider.\n\nDave is currently on contract in a supervisory and instructor role with Triple Canopy in the State of Colorado. working under the auspices of the DHS.Special Guest: Dave Williams.","content_html":"Dave Williams is a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and a Private Security Contractor. I talk with Dave about his experiences as a PSC. We also spend a fair amount of time discussing what new people in the industry should consider and why.
\n\nPreviously, we discussed, primarily, his experiences working overseas. While we re-cap most of his experiences in this episode, we spend the brunt of our time talking about the things new people in the industry should consider.
\n\nDave is currently on contract in a supervisory and instructor role with Triple Canopy in the State of Colorado. working under the auspices of the DHS.
Special Guest: Dave Williams.
","summary":"Dave Williams is a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and a Private Security Contractor. I talk with Dave about his experiences as a PSC. We also spend a fair amount of time discussing what new people in the industry should consider and why.","date_published":"2021-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/558479d9-d48c-4f3e-a197-32a7a474a2f6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":68121592,"duration_in_seconds":6219}]},{"id":"3825a212-2a40-49b1-9ccc-533a35c5f7fc","title":"Episode 38 with Mike Morton","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode38","content_text":"Mike Morton is a former member of the United States Army as an infantry medic. He spent twenty years in law enforcement, parts of that time as a police SWAT medic. Mike retired after 20-years service in 2013. After working three years private security in the U-S, Mike began contracting OCONUS in Mexico as a police instructor and adivsor on a Department of State contract. He is currently awaiting contract award in another country.\n\nWhile our primary topic of discussion in this episode is the goings on south of the border, in particular how they pertian to a law enforcement and security stand point, we also take on several other topics and their spill-over affect.Special Guest: Mike Morton.","content_html":"Mike Morton is a former member of the United States Army as an infantry medic. He spent twenty years in law enforcement, parts of that time as a police SWAT medic. Mike retired after 20-years service in 2013. After working three years private security in the U-S, Mike began contracting OCONUS in Mexico as a police instructor and adivsor on a Department of State contract. He is currently awaiting contract award in another country.
\n\nWhile our primary topic of discussion in this episode is the goings on south of the border, in particular how they pertian to a law enforcement and security stand point, we also take on several other topics and their spill-over affect.
Special Guest: Mike Morton.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk again with Mike Morton regarding his experiences as an OCONUS contractor. While our primary focus is on the goings on south of the border as they pertain to law enforcement and security, we also take on a number of other topics.","date_published":"2021-03-26T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/3825a212-2a40-49b1-9ccc-533a35c5f7fc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":66440644,"duration_in_seconds":6417}]},{"id":"91ddf400-6cb4-4f0f-98aa-f31337cf7d56","title":"Episode 37 with K'ram Noori","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode37","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with K'ram Noori -- Afghan native on private security contracts since 2004. In fact, he is still on contract, this time with a company at the Ukranian embassy.\n\nK'ram's experience begins in 2004. Since that time, he has held positions from Security Supervisor and armored vehicle driver at Megaviation Helicopter in Afghanistan. Interpreter for convoy security teams, site supervisor, guard supervisor, member of a mobile security team, a guards commander.\n\nDuring the multi-decades wars in Afghanistan, most notably since the Soviet invasion in 1979, K'ram has seen many family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues die -- mostly as a result of terrorist activity, namely the Taliban.\n\nK'ram speaks openly about the subject of the on the ground situation in Afghanistan.Special Guest: K'ram Noori.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with K'ram Noori -- Afghan native on private security contracts since 2004. In fact, he is still on contract, this time with a company at the Ukranian embassy.
\n\nK'ram's experience begins in 2004. Since that time, he has held positions from Security Supervisor and armored vehicle driver at Megaviation Helicopter in Afghanistan. Interpreter for convoy security teams, site supervisor, guard supervisor, member of a mobile security team, a guards commander.
\n\nDuring the multi-decades wars in Afghanistan, most notably since the Soviet invasion in 1979, K'ram has seen many family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues die -- mostly as a result of terrorist activity, namely the Taliban.
\n\nK'ram speaks openly about the subject of the on the ground situation in Afghanistan.
Special Guest: K'ram Noori.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with K'ram Noori -- Afghan native on private security contracts since 2004.","date_published":"2021-03-19T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/91ddf400-6cb4-4f0f-98aa-f31337cf7d56.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49120176,"duration_in_seconds":4176}]},{"id":"550c56ff-8b17-4d0c-9dab-4c8cbf042830","title":"Episode 36 with Mike Riche","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode36","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set.\n\nMike's overseas work experience includes positions with Triple Canopy, Aegis, and Global Strategies. His work experiences include security specialist, force protection, protective security specialist, executive protection specialist, and emergency response team. Mike finished overseas work in 2013 for Aegis. \n\nHis stateside experience includes multiple positions with multiple companies in the roles of investigator, protection specialist, executive protection agent, firearms and first aid instructor, and, currently, owner of Survival Mind Set Training where he is also the lead instructor. His company can be found on the World Wide Web at [ survival mind set training dot com ].Special Guest: Mike Riche.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set.
\n\nMike's overseas work experience includes positions with Triple Canopy, Aegis, and Global Strategies. His work experiences include security specialist, force protection, protective security specialist, executive protection specialist, and emergency response team. Mike finished overseas work in 2013 for Aegis.
\n\nHis stateside experience includes multiple positions with multiple companies in the roles of investigator, protection specialist, executive protection agent, firearms and first aid instructor, and, currently, owner of Survival Mind Set Training where he is also the lead instructor. His company can be found on the World Wide Web at [ survival mind set training dot com ].
Special Guest: Mike Riche.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set.","date_published":"2021-03-12T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/550c56ff-8b17-4d0c-9dab-4c8cbf042830.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":79399847,"duration_in_seconds":7013}]},{"id":"459db7c1-6a9f-4059-9a49-8332c42ca9c7","title":"Episode 35 with Robert O'Dowd","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode35","content_text":"My guest for this episode is Robert O'Dowd \n\nSpent 24-years in the armed forces. Attained Warrant Officer class-1. \n\nHe spent nearly two years in Baghdad, Iraq in a management position -- where Robert and I met. As I recall, that was 2011. I will let him go in to detail on that if he so wishes. \n\nHe has held multiple management positions since then, and in various locations. Some of those positions include: Project Consultant, Project Manager, Logistics Manager, and Area Manager. \n\nRobert is a SCRUM master. Not sure what that is. I know of one other person who has that title. I'm fairly certain Robert will fill us in on that. \n\nRobert is currently on contract in Iraq as a camp manager.Special Guest: Robert O'Dowd.","content_html":"My guest for this episode is Robert O'Dowd
\n\nSpent 24-years in the armed forces. Attained Warrant Officer class-1.
\n\nHe spent nearly two years in Baghdad, Iraq in a management position -- where Robert and I met. As I recall, that was 2011. I will let him go in to detail on that if he so wishes.
\n\nHe has held multiple management positions since then, and in various locations. Some of those positions include: Project Consultant, Project Manager, Logistics Manager, and Area Manager.
\n\nRobert is a SCRUM master. Not sure what that is. I know of one other person who has that title. I'm fairly certain Robert will fill us in on that.
\n\nRobert is currently on contract in Iraq as a camp manager.
Special Guest: Robert O'Dowd.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Robert O'Dowd -- former member of the British Armed Forces, and overseas contractor.","date_published":"2021-02-26T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/459db7c1-6a9f-4059-9a49-8332c42ca9c7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":19925489,"duration_in_seconds":3774}]},{"id":"23cf865d-d372-4e38-b69c-572f4367ecd0","title":"Episode 34 with Mike Riche","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode34","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set Training.\n\nMike's overseas work experience includes positions with Triple Canopy, Aegis, and Global Strategies. His work experiences include security specialist, force protection, protective security specialist, executive protection specialist, and emergency response team. Mike finished overseas work in 2013 for Aegis. \n\nHis stateside experience includes multiple positions with multiple companies in the roles of investigator, protection specialist, executive protection agent, firearms and first aid instructor, and, currently, owner of Survival Mind Set Training where he is also the lead instructor. His company can be found on the World Wide Web at [ survival mind set training dot com ].Special Guest: Mike Riche.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set Training.
\n\nMike's overseas work experience includes positions with Triple Canopy, Aegis, and Global Strategies. His work experiences include security specialist, force protection, protective security specialist, executive protection specialist, and emergency response team. Mike finished overseas work in 2013 for Aegis.
\n\nHis stateside experience includes multiple positions with multiple companies in the roles of investigator, protection specialist, executive protection agent, firearms and first aid instructor, and, currently, owner of Survival Mind Set Training where he is also the lead instructor. His company can be found on the World Wide Web at [ survival mind set training dot com ].
Special Guest: Mike Riche.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Mike Riche -- former member of the United States Navy, overseas private security contractor, and owner of Survival Mind Set Training.","date_published":"2021-02-19T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/23cf865d-d372-4e38-b69c-572f4367ecd0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":67366505,"duration_in_seconds":5834}]},{"id":"9cf568fb-f108-4435-8fe6-bebbf3be3f39","title":"Episode 33 with Jon Reed","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode33","content_text":"Jon Reed is a former law enforcement officer who transitioned to overseas contracting in 2005, doing securty work in Haiti. In 2009 his transition was complete. Since then, he has been a staff instructor, WPS Assistant Team Lead, Senior Project Manager, Moble Team Lead, Global Anti-terrorism Assistance Diplomatic Mission. He is still an overseas contractor.Special Guest: Jon Reed.","content_html":"Jon Reed is a former law enforcement officer who transitioned to overseas contracting in 2005, doing securty work in Haiti. In 2009 his transition was complete. Since then, he has been a staff instructor, WPS Assistant Team Lead, Senior Project Manager, Moble Team Lead, Global Anti-terrorism Assistance Diplomatic Mission. He is still an overseas contractor.
Special Guest: Jon Reed.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Jon Reed -- former law enforcement officer and overseas contractor.","date_published":"2021-02-12T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/9cf568fb-f108-4435-8fe6-bebbf3be3f39.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":37297164,"duration_in_seconds":6039}]},{"id":"a0e7d174-dae1-4674-a651-d11146fe036e","title":"Episode 32 with Joshua Siebold","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode32","content_text":"In this episode I talk with Joshua Siebold -- overseas contractor/private security contractor for the past ten years. Joshua got his start like many by working private security in the States, getting the certifications and training he needed prior to his first contract overseas in 2010.\n\nJoshua and I talk about how he got into overseas contracting, his experiences stateside and overseas, and some of the challenges and issues faced and how one can overcome those challenges and issues.\n\nJoshua's credentials include...ISR, program management, INL affairs, Director of Armory Services, Bio-metrics, weapons instructor, and global security manager. Joshua's self professed highest level of private security training was his executive protection training through Trojan.Special Guest: Joshua Siebold.","content_html":"In this episode I talk with Joshua Siebold -- overseas contractor/private security contractor for the past ten years. Joshua got his start like many by working private security in the States, getting the certifications and training he needed prior to his first contract overseas in 2010.
\n\nJoshua and I talk about how he got into overseas contracting, his experiences stateside and overseas, and some of the challenges and issues faced and how one can overcome those challenges and issues.
\n\nJoshua's credentials include...ISR, program management, INL affairs, Director of Armory Services, Bio-metrics, weapons instructor, and global security manager. Joshua's self professed highest level of private security training was his executive protection training through Trojan.
Special Guest: Joshua Siebold.
","summary":"In this episode I talk with Joshua Siebold -- overseas contractor/private security contractor for the past ten years.","date_published":"2021-01-29T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a0e7d174-dae1-4674-a651-d11146fe036e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":52774551,"duration_in_seconds":4930}]},{"id":"f1924717-bd5d-4ba3-bcab-d609025ffb69","title":"Episode 31 with Paul Rossi","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode31","content_text":"In this episode I continue my discussions with Paul Rossi on his experiences as a private security contractor. We had such a great time in the previous episode that we just couldn't help ourselves from doing a second episode shortly afterwards. If you liked our first go-round in episode-30 you will likely enjoy this one as well. If you haven't listened to episode-30, I highly encourage you to do so.Special Guest: Paul Rossi.","content_html":"In this episode I continue my discussions with Paul Rossi on his experiences as a private security contractor. We had such a great time in the previous episode that we just couldn't help ourselves from doing a second episode shortly afterwards. If you liked our first go-round in episode-30 you will likely enjoy this one as well. If you haven't listened to episode-30, I highly encourage you to do so.
Special Guest: Paul Rossi.
","summary":"In this episode I continue my discussions with Paul Rossi on his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2021-01-22T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/f1924717-bd5d-4ba3-bcab-d609025ffb69.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":56928048,"duration_in_seconds":5037}]},{"id":"47335f83-2135-43bd-953c-e8e736333f23","title":"Episode 30 with Paul Rossi","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode30","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Paul Rossi, former member of the United States Navy, private security contractor, actor and model. Paul served in the U.S. Navy from 1995 until 2000. He attended college at Manchester Community College and Asnuntuck Community College. His career spans a multitude of industries and disciplines. On the security side of things, his resume includes...\nMaritime Security Shift Leader \nTeam Leader of Force Protection / Armed Security Guards \nLead Investigator \nProgram Manager \nSenior Project Manager \nHead of Security for a major hotel chain \nU.S. Navy 1995-2000 \nManchester Community College and Asnuntuck Community College Special Guest: Paul Rossi.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Paul Rossi, former member of the United States Navy, private security contractor, actor and model. Paul served in the U.S. Navy from 1995 until 2000. He attended college at Manchester Community College and Asnuntuck Community College. His career spans a multitude of industries and disciplines. On the security side of things, his resume includes...
\nMaritime Security Shift Leader
\nTeam Leader of Force Protection / Armed Security Guards
\nLead Investigator
\nProgram Manager
\nSenior Project Manager
\nHead of Security for a major hotel chain
\nU.S. Navy 1995-2000
\nManchester Community College and Asnuntuck Community College
Special Guest: Paul Rossi.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Paul Rossi, former member of the United States Navy, private security contractor, actor and model.","date_published":"2021-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/47335f83-2135-43bd-953c-e8e736333f23.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43421085,"duration_in_seconds":4049}]},{"id":"93934879-e6f1-44c8-b5ef-28dcafefde62","title":"Episode 29 with Patrick Sovie","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode29","content_text":"Patrick Sovie is a native of Sierra Leone. Patrick worked as a contractor in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan as a TCN (Third Country National). When he completed his overseas contracting, Patrick finished his education at Northeastern University, ultimately obtaining a PhD in International Law.Special Guest: Patrick Sovie.","content_html":"Patrick Sovie is a native of Sierra Leone. Patrick worked as a contractor in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan as a TCN (Third Country National). When he completed his overseas contracting, Patrick finished his education at Northeastern University, ultimately obtaining a PhD in International Law.
Special Guest: Patrick Sovie.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Patrick Sovie -- Sierra Leone native, former overseas contractor, Bushmaster, and a holder of two Bachelor's degrees, a Master's degree, and a Doctorate in International Law.","date_published":"2021-01-08T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/93934879-e6f1-44c8-b5ef-28dcafefde62.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47819122,"duration_in_seconds":5120}]},{"id":"b00d0030-d9ca-4009-8d97-c5e364cb803b","title":"Episode 28 with Steve Shuback","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode28","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Steve Shuback -- former member of the United States Marine Corps, State Patrolman, Sheriff's Deputy, and private contractor overseas.\n\nSteve began his military career in 1988, culminating with his retirement from the reserves in 2016. We discuss his beginnings, his path to where he is now -- how he got there, and the experiences he's had as a result of that path.Special Guest: Steve Shuback.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Steve Shuback -- former member of the United States Marine Corps, State Patrolman, Sheriff's Deputy, and private contractor overseas.
\n\nSteve began his military career in 1988, culminating with his retirement from the reserves in 2016. We discuss his beginnings, his path to where he is now -- how he got there, and the experiences he's had as a result of that path.
Special Guest: Steve Shuback.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Steve Shuback -- former member of the United States Marine Corps, State Patrolman, Sheriff's Deputy, and private contractor overseas.","date_published":"2021-01-01T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/b00d0030-d9ca-4009-8d97-c5e364cb803b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":63772799,"duration_in_seconds":5354}]},{"id":"e9ee19b1-37a2-4275-82aa-6c5be86b5702","title":"Episode 27 with Vern Messer","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode27","content_text":"Vern Messer is a former member of the United States Army, retired, I might add. After retiring, he spent twenty years as a private contractor overseas. He is currently in the State of North Carolina. \n\nVern began his military career in 1967. His specialty was logistics; deployed to desert storm in 1992, beginning his private contracting career that same year. He retired from private contracting in 2012. During his time as a private contractor, Vern spent time in Kuwait, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Congo, Afghanistan, and Egypt.Special Guest: Vern Messer.","content_html":"Vern Messer is a former member of the United States Army, retired, I might add. After retiring, he spent twenty years as a private contractor overseas. He is currently in the State of North Carolina.
\n\nVern began his military career in 1967. His specialty was logistics; deployed to desert storm in 1992, beginning his private contracting career that same year. He retired from private contracting in 2012. During his time as a private contractor, Vern spent time in Kuwait, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Congo, Afghanistan, and Egypt.
Special Guest: Vern Messer.
","summary":"In this episode, I speak with Vern Messer, a former member of the United States Army, retired, and twenty years veteran of overseas contracting.","date_published":"2020-12-25T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/e9ee19b1-37a2-4275-82aa-6c5be86b5702.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":65997997,"duration_in_seconds":3663}]},{"id":"b813e54a-ccb0-4691-a3cc-cf2dd07d7dc9","title":"Episode 26 with Morgan Lerette","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode26","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Morgan Lerette -- former member of the United States Air Force, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book \"Welcome to Blackwater.\"\n\nMorgan joined the U.S. Air Force in 1999. In the Summer/Fall of 2004, Morgan signed on with Blackwater, working in Iraq. Years later, he returned as a member of the U.S. Air Force. Morgan currently speaks on the open circuit.Special Guest: Morgan Lerette.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Morgan Lerette -- former member of the United States Air Force, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book "Welcome to Blackwater."
\n\nMorgan joined the U.S. Air Force in 1999. In the Summer/Fall of 2004, Morgan signed on with Blackwater, working in Iraq. Years later, he returned as a member of the U.S. Air Force. Morgan currently speaks on the open circuit.
Special Guest: Morgan Lerette.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Morgan Lerette -- former member of the United States Air Force, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book \"Welcome to Blackwater.\"","date_published":"2020-12-18T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/b813e54a-ccb0-4691-a3cc-cf2dd07d7dc9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":51835080,"duration_in_seconds":4692}]},{"id":"baccfa76-d5d1-4365-a048-62865472a1dc","title":"Episode 25 with Joe Wright","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode25","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Joe Wright, a retired federal special agent and current contractor, regarding his experiences as both a federal agent and a private contractor.\n\nJoe Wright began his federal carrer in 1977 as a Border Patrol agent in San Diego with INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service), an Insepector in San Ysidro, Miami International Airport, Deportation Officer. He worked with the Customs Service, and FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigations), retiring in 2007 -- later that year, beginning his contracting career as a private contractor that year. Joe has spent four (4) years in Iraq & Afghanistan, and is currently on contract with DOS (Department of State).Special Guest: Joe Wright.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Joe Wright, a retired federal special agent and current contractor, regarding his experiences as both a federal agent and a private contractor.
\n\nJoe Wright began his federal carrer in 1977 as a Border Patrol agent in San Diego with INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service), an Insepector in San Ysidro, Miami International Airport, Deportation Officer. He worked with the Customs Service, and FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigations), retiring in 2007 -- later that year, beginning his contracting career as a private contractor that year. Joe has spent four (4) years in Iraq & Afghanistan, and is currently on contract with DOS (Department of State).
Special Guest: Joe Wright.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Joe Wright, a retired federal special agent and current contractor, regarding his experiences as both a federal agent and a private contractor overseas.","date_published":"2020-12-11T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/baccfa76-d5d1-4365-a048-62865472a1dc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":33640413,"duration_in_seconds":4118}]},{"id":"5c1521e2-6ff0-4a0a-8186-dc6d47c5f9e7","title":"Episode 24 with Steven Luisi","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode24","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Steven Luisi. Steven is a South Carolina resident of Italian descent who spent nearly three years contracting overseas for U.S. entities in the Middle East as well as other locations in Southwest Asia and Africa.Special Guest: Steven Luisi.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Steven Luisi. Steven is a South Carolina resident of Italian descent who spent nearly three years contracting overseas for U.S. entities in the Middle East as well as other locations in Southwest Asia and Africa.
Special Guest: Steven Luisi.
","summary":"Steven Luisi is a New Jersey resident of Italian descent who spent nearly three years contracting overseas in the construction trades.","date_published":"2020-12-04T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/5c1521e2-6ff0-4a0a-8186-dc6d47c5f9e7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":31892365,"duration_in_seconds":5050}]},{"id":"768621d1-9d04-4cb0-8b10-3cab5bd733e7","title":"Episode 23 with Patrick Batchelder","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode23","content_text":"Patrick Batchelder is a former member of the United States Army. While serving in the Army, Patrick attained the rank of O-3 (Captain), served as an armorer, tank commander and, later, worked in PsyOps. After getting out of the Army, he turned to contracting overseas. He's worked in Iraq, Kuwait, and in Tunisia. In fact, he is still contracting.Special Guest: Patrick Batchelder.","content_html":"Patrick Batchelder is a former member of the United States Army. While serving in the Army, Patrick attained the rank of O-3 (Captain), served as an armorer, tank commander and, later, worked in PsyOps. After getting out of the Army, he turned to contracting overseas. He's worked in Iraq, Kuwait, and in Tunisia. In fact, he is still contracting.
Special Guest: Patrick Batchelder.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Patrick Batchelder, former member of the United States Army, and private contractor overseas.","date_published":"2020-11-27T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/768621d1-9d04-4cb0-8b10-3cab5bd733e7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36999213,"duration_in_seconds":4888}]},{"id":"6219db3c-84ca-4a45-8881-f9e030fecaa7","title":"Episode 21 with Mike Morton","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode21","content_text":"Mike Morton is a former member of the United States Army as an infantry medic, and a police SWAT medic. He retired after 20-years service in 2013. After three years private security work in the U-S, Mike began contracting OCONUS in Mexico as a police instructor and adivsor on a Department of State contract.Special Guest: Mike Morton.","content_html":"Mike Morton is a former member of the United States Army as an infantry medic, and a police SWAT medic. He retired after 20-years service in 2013. After three years private security work in the U-S, Mike began contracting OCONUS in Mexico as a police instructor and adivsor on a Department of State contract.
Special Guest: Mike Morton.
","summary":"Mike Morton is a former member of the United States Army as an infantry medic, LEO SWAT medic, and private security contractor in Mexico.","date_published":"2020-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/6219db3c-84ca-4a45-8881-f9e030fecaa7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25756508,"duration_in_seconds":3235}]},{"id":"a935fe3b-d6cc-47ce-a334-3a2fb88f7122","title":"Episode 22 with Jeff Aster","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode22","content_text":"Jeff joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 1980, serving for 10-years as a Combat Engineer. Concurrently, he served in the Philadelphia Police department as a Detective, and a special agent to the AG Office in the narcotics and crimes division. Jeff was also a member of the SWAT team.\n\nJeff retired from law enforcement in 2010, moving into the world of contracting with the EPM -- Embedded Police Mission. He was a class mate of the EPM-308 mission, then went to Kandahar, Afghanistan where he worked for DynCorp Int'l.\n\nMike currently owns his own private security company -- personal security solutions, llc. His company website is currently personal security solutions dot net, soon to be getoffthe-x.com.Special Guest: Jeff Aster.","content_html":"Jeff joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 1980, serving for 10-years as a Combat Engineer. Concurrently, he served in the Philadelphia Police department as a Detective, and a special agent to the AG Office in the narcotics and crimes division. Jeff was also a member of the SWAT team.
\n\nJeff retired from law enforcement in 2010, moving into the world of contracting with the EPM -- Embedded Police Mission. He was a class mate of the EPM-308 mission, then went to Kandahar, Afghanistan where he worked for DynCorp Int'l.
\n\nMike currently owns his own private security company -- personal security solutions, llc. His company website is currently personal security solutions dot net, soon to be getoffthe-x.com.
Special Guest: Jeff Aster.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Jeff Aster, former member of the United States Army, Law Enforcement Officer, and Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-11-13T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a935fe3b-d6cc-47ce-a334-3a2fb88f7122.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43649054,"duration_in_seconds":5828}]},{"id":"9c624abb-e43d-4437-86db-a67b067d3388","title":"Episode 19 with Christine Tenzycki","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode19","content_text":"Christine Tenzycki is a former law enforcement officer in Okaloosa County, Florida, and a private security contractor. She is currently general manager of a nightclub, as well as miscellaneous duties for the owner's varied business entities.\n\nChristine spent two (2) years in Ecuador on a Peace Corps mission. She holds a bacalaureate degree in Criminal Justice, and she maintains a YouTube channel.Special Guest: Chrstine Tenzycki.","content_html":"Christine Tenzycki is a former law enforcement officer in Okaloosa County, Florida, and a private security contractor. She is currently general manager of a nightclub, as well as miscellaneous duties for the owner's varied business entities.
\n\nChristine spent two (2) years in Ecuador on a Peace Corps mission. She holds a bacalaureate degree in Criminal Justice, and she maintains a YouTube channel.
Special Guest: Chrstine Tenzycki.
","summary":"Christine is a former Sheriff's Deputy and Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-11-06T06:00:00.000-08:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/9c624abb-e43d-4437-86db-a67b067d3388.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":61521925,"duration_in_seconds":5304}]},{"id":"da6661e6-c7e9-4f03-83cc-43c3f5a9621b","title":"Episode 20 with Robert Fox","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode20","content_text":"Robert Fox is a former member of the United States Army -- field artillery and intelligence analyst. After getting out of the Army, Robert turned his passions into one of food service. Robert spent over ten (10) years overseas contracting food services to troops and contractors from every coalition member country that went through his AO in Iraq.Special Guest: Robert Fox.","content_html":"Robert Fox is a former member of the United States Army -- field artillery and intelligence analyst. After getting out of the Army, Robert turned his passions into one of food service. Robert spent over ten (10) years overseas contracting food services to troops and contractors from every coalition member country that went through his AO in Iraq.
Special Guest: Robert Fox.
","summary":"Robert Fox is a former member of the United States Army, and private contractor.","date_published":"2020-10-30T08:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/da6661e6-c7e9-4f03-83cc-43c3f5a9621b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":25013794,"duration_in_seconds":4090}]},{"id":"5e2f7ec5-94ce-4c9d-8c17-296128c9b3e2","title":"Episode 18 with Bill Moses","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode18","content_text":"Bill Moses is a former member of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. Bill retired from the Army Reserves in 2002 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Since then, Bill has worked as a New York Police Officer and as a consultant, mentor and advisor to numerous organizations, public and private overseas and in the United States.\n\nBill is a Vietnam War veteran. He spent 24-years as a Law Enforcement Officer, joining the INL (International Narcotics & Law Enforcement) mission overseas in 1997 for Dyncorp Int'l. He has worked for USAID as security coordinator, and was a Police instructior in Jordan for 27-months; spent 23-months with the ATA program, as well as numerous other programs and missions around the world.Special Guest: Bill Moses.","content_html":"Bill Moses is a former member of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. Bill retired from the Army Reserves in 2002 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Since then, Bill has worked as a New York Police Officer and as a consultant, mentor and advisor to numerous organizations, public and private overseas and in the United States.
\n\nBill is a Vietnam War veteran. He spent 24-years as a Law Enforcement Officer, joining the INL (International Narcotics & Law Enforcement) mission overseas in 1997 for Dyncorp Int'l. He has worked for USAID as security coordinator, and was a Police instructior in Jordan for 27-months; spent 23-months with the ATA program, as well as numerous other programs and missions around the world.
Special Guest: Bill Moses.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Bill Moses about his experiences as a Private Security Contractor overseas.","date_published":"2020-10-30T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/5e2f7ec5-94ce-4c9d-8c17-296128c9b3e2.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":64682270,"duration_in_seconds":3882}]},{"id":"bca1a26a-d5b3-4239-b5bc-fc76f701dbc5","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 17 with Thomas C","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode17","content_text":"In this episode I talk with Thomas C about his experiences as a private security contractor, his past and current endeavors, as well as some of the many issues and challenges facing military veterans and private security contractors.\n\nAlas, I apologize for the background distractions during this episode. I live in the foothills of a mountain range. As such, my cell phone reception is come and go. As utilizing a VOIP call was not practical for this particular episode, I had to hit the road for this episode.Special Guest: Thomas C.","content_html":"In this episode I talk with Thomas C about his experiences as a private security contractor, his past and current endeavors, as well as some of the many issues and challenges facing military veterans and private security contractors.
\n\nAlas, I apologize for the background distractions during this episode. I live in the foothills of a mountain range. As such, my cell phone reception is come and go. As utilizing a VOIP call was not practical for this particular episode, I had to hit the road for this episode.
Special Guest: Thomas C.
","summary":"In this episode I talk with Thomas C about his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-10-23T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/bca1a26a-d5b3-4239-b5bc-fc76f701dbc5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":41887297,"duration_in_seconds":4853}]},{"id":"203e26d3-17ae-4434-bebe-83398e9178e4","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 16 with Trevor Ritchie","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode16","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Trevor Ritchie and his beginnings, starting with his time in the U.S. Army, transitioning to his experiences as a private security contractor overseas. We wind up this episode with what he's been doing since quitting overseas contracting.Special Guest: Trevor Ritchie.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Trevor Ritchie and his beginnings, starting with his time in the U.S. Army, transitioning to his experiences as a private security contractor overseas. We wind up this episode with what he's been doing since quitting overseas contracting.
Special Guest: Trevor Ritchie.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Trevor Ritchie and his experiences as a PSC.","date_published":"2020-10-16T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/203e26d3-17ae-4434-bebe-83398e9178e4.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":37807978,"duration_in_seconds":4613}]},{"id":"3ec5d199-ac60-463e-9631-5b328663bc16","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 15 with Larry Wilson","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode15","content_text":"In this installment of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I talk with Larry Wilson, former member of the USMC, LEO, Owner of MVX Security Solutions, and Private Security Contractor.\n\nLarry Wilson spent eight years as a U.S. Marine, Special Guest: Larry Wilson.","content_html":"In this installment of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I talk with Larry Wilson, former member of the USMC, LEO, Owner of MVX Security Solutions, and Private Security Contractor.
\n\nLarry Wilson spent eight years as a U.S. Marine,
Special Guest: Larry Wilson.
","summary":"In this installment of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life, I talk with Larry Wilson, former member of the USMC, LEO, and Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-09-18T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/3ec5d199-ac60-463e-9631-5b328663bc16.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":31374054,"duration_in_seconds":3830}]},{"id":"07eed258-200a-4f36-921f-ae37e433092c","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 14 Part 2 with Travis Haworth","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode14pt2","content_text":"Mister Haworth is a former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Deputy Sheriff, State Game Warden, currently, a Federal Law Enforcement agent, and Private Security Contractor.Special Guest: Travis Haworth.","content_html":"Mister Haworth is a former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Deputy Sheriff, State Game Warden, currently, a Federal Law Enforcement agent, and Private Security Contractor.
Special Guest: Travis Haworth.
","summary":"In this second part of the fourteenth episode I conclude my discussion with Travis Haworth and his experiences as a Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-09-11T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/07eed258-200a-4f36-921f-ae37e433092c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":32233091,"duration_in_seconds":3716}]},{"id":"c9106d7e-15c0-4f57-9ea8-816f16917b00","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 14 Part 1 with Travis Haworth","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode14pt1","content_text":"Travis Haworth is a former U.S. Marine, Deputy Sheriff, and State Game Warden. He is currently a Federal Law Enforcement agent. We talk about Travis's beginnings prior to becoming a Private Security Contractor through his experiences in the Middle East, and what he's doing these days.Special Guest: Travis Haworth.","content_html":"Travis Haworth is a former U.S. Marine, Deputy Sheriff, and State Game Warden. He is currently a Federal Law Enforcement agent. We talk about Travis's beginnings prior to becoming a Private Security Contractor through his experiences in the Middle East, and what he's doing these days.
Special Guest: Travis Haworth.
","summary":"In Part-1 of this fourteenth episode, I discuss Travis Haworth's experiences as a Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-09-04T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/c9106d7e-15c0-4f57-9ea8-816f16917b00.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36354971,"duration_in_seconds":3630}]},{"id":"b6ff8a9b-f92f-4a99-9066-d7c17cdc479e","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 13 with Dave Williams","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode13","content_text":"Dave Williams is a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and Private Security Contracotor. His expericnes span CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) contracts. During Dave's time as a PSC, he spent time with Blackwater, Blackhawk, TLW Jamaica, Meridian Global, and Nexus Consultancy, as well as others which will be divulged at a later date in another episode.Special Guest: Dave Williams.","content_html":"Dave Williams is a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and Private Security Contracotor. His expericnes span CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) contracts. During Dave's time as a PSC, he spent time with Blackwater, Blackhawk, TLW Jamaica, Meridian Global, and Nexus Consultancy, as well as others which will be divulged at a later date in another episode.
Special Guest: Dave Williams.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Dave Williams, and his his experiences with private security contracting.","date_published":"2020-08-28T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/b6ff8a9b-f92f-4a99-9066-d7c17cdc479e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42123635,"duration_in_seconds":4230}]},{"id":"0f261ab0-75fd-4f2a-8ff2-8868e14d7d6b","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 12 with William Ledford","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode12","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with William Ledford about his experiences during his time as a Private Security Contractor in Kuwait as a Force Protection Officer, and his time in Iraq as a OSINT specialist.\n\nWilliam Ledford is a former member of the United States Army. He served in both an infantry role, an MP role, and a suveillance role. He worked overseas in Kuwait and Iraq for three years. In between, and since, he worked on contract for ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) and FPS (Federal Protective Services). He is currently on contract with FPS, and seeking a private security contract stateside with LEO credentials or to get back on contract overseas.Special Guest: William Ledford.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with William Ledford about his experiences during his time as a Private Security Contractor in Kuwait as a Force Protection Officer, and his time in Iraq as a OSINT specialist.
\n\nWilliam Ledford is a former member of the United States Army. He served in both an infantry role, an MP role, and a suveillance role. He worked overseas in Kuwait and Iraq for three years. In between, and since, he worked on contract for ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) and FPS (Federal Protective Services). He is currently on contract with FPS, and seeking a private security contract stateside with LEO credentials or to get back on contract overseas.
Special Guest: William Ledford.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with William Ledford, former member of the United States Army, and Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-08-21T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/0f261ab0-75fd-4f2a-8ff2-8868e14d7d6b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35191909,"duration_in_seconds":3875}]},{"id":"68b7a5b7-1a8a-4ccf-a216-cc7e777b846f","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 10 Pt 2 with Robb Krott","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode10pt2","content_text":"In this second of a two part series, I talk with Rob Krott, former member of the United States Army, Special Forces, Private Security Contractor, and author of the books \"AR-15 Operator's Build Manual (2017)\" and \"Save the Last Bullet for Yourself (2008)\". We discuss his experiences as a private security contractor.Special Guest: Rob Krott.","content_html":"In this second of a two part series, I talk with Rob Krott, former member of the United States Army, Special Forces, Private Security Contractor, and author of the books "AR-15 Operator's Build Manual (2017)" and "Save the Last Bullet for Yourself (2008)". We discuss his experiences as a private security contractor.
Special Guest: Rob Krott.
","summary":"In this episode, I conclude my discussion with Rob Krott and his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-08-14T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/68b7a5b7-1a8a-4ccf-a216-cc7e777b846f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43939139,"duration_in_seconds":4350}]},{"id":"2c359056-d6ea-4471-91ca-c9a2c9080c9f","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 10 Pt 1 with Rob Krott","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode10pt1","content_text":"In this two part series, I talk with Rob Krott, former member of the United States Army, Special Forces, Private Security Contractor, and author of the books \"AR-15 Operator's Build Manual (2017)\" and \"Save the Last Bullet for Yourself (2008)\". We discuss his experiences as a private security contractor.Special Guest: Rob Krott.","content_html":"In this two part series, I talk with Rob Krott, former member of the United States Army, Special Forces, Private Security Contractor, and author of the books "AR-15 Operator's Build Manual (2017)" and "Save the Last Bullet for Yourself (2008)". We discuss his experiences as a private security contractor.
Special Guest: Rob Krott.
","summary":"In part one of this episode I talk with Rob Krott about his varied experiences as a Private Security Contractor.","date_published":"2020-08-07T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/2c359056-d6ea-4471-91ca-c9a2c9080c9f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":41588626,"duration_in_seconds":4045}]},{"id":"42864af0-f4da-4f39-b925-fad920a97c74","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Episode 11 with Jim Sierawski","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/episode11","content_text":"Jim Sierawski is a U.S. Navy veteran, Law Enforcement Officer, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book, \"Bear the Sword\".\n\nJim was a BUDS graduate of class-109. He served with SEAL teams 5, 6, and 8. He was also a LEO for 4-years. Jim worked for Blackwater, initially, as a part-time instructor, eventually going full-time. He rekons that he was the 5th or 6th member of Blackwater to be hired -- prior to 9/11.Special Guest: Jim Sierawski.","content_html":"Jim Sierawski is a U.S. Navy veteran, Law Enforcement Officer, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book, "Bear the Sword".
\n\nJim was a BUDS graduate of class-109. He served with SEAL teams 5, 6, and 8. He was also a LEO for 4-years. Jim worked for Blackwater, initially, as a part-time instructor, eventually going full-time. He rekons that he was the 5th or 6th member of Blackwater to be hired -- prior to 9/11.
Special Guest: Jim Sierawski.
","summary":"In this episode, I speak with Jim Sierawski, former member of the U.S. Navy, Private Security Contractor, and author of the book, \"Bear the Sword\".","date_published":"2020-07-31T22:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/42864af0-f4da-4f39-b925-fad920a97c74.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":45445134,"duration_in_seconds":4486}]},{"id":"336ac225-6f57-4837-b5f8-580bcae8c599","title":"Season-1 Episode-9 with Marc Fortin","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e9","content_text":"I talk with my good friend Marc Fortin, former member of the United States Marine Corps and Army, and Private Security Contractor. We briefly discuss his beginnings, his transition from the military to contracting, and his experiences as a private security contractor.Special Guest: Marc Fortin.","content_html":"I talk with my good friend Marc Fortin, former member of the United States Marine Corps and Army, and Private Security Contractor. We briefly discuss his beginnings, his transition from the military to contracting, and his experiences as a private security contractor.
Special Guest: Marc Fortin.
","summary":"A discussion with Marc Fortin and his experiences as a PSC.","date_published":"2020-07-24T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/336ac225-6f57-4837-b5f8-580bcae8c599.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34302764,"duration_in_seconds":3919}]},{"id":"794eb84a-5f75-4795-bfd3-2b04dfc4c0db","title":"Season-1 Episode-8 with Jeff Pall","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e8","content_text":"Tune in as I talk with Jeff Pall -- former member of the United States Army, and private security contractor from 2004 until 2012.Special Guest: Jeff Pall.","content_html":"Tune in as I talk with Jeff Pall -- former member of the United States Army, and private security contractor from 2004 until 2012.
Special Guest: Jeff Pall.
","summary":"A discussion with Jeff Pall and his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-07-17T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/794eb84a-5f75-4795-bfd3-2b04dfc4c0db.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49105550,"duration_in_seconds":4466}]},{"id":"e317a7bf-5141-425d-abf2-d32536a7fa35","title":"Season-1 Episode-7 with Steven Hackworth","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e7","content_text":"I talk with Steven Hackworth, former member of the United States Air Force, Paramedic, and private security contractor. We discuss his history as a private security contractor, beginning in 1986 through his departure in 2018.Special Guest: Steven Hackworth.","content_html":"I talk with Steven Hackworth, former member of the United States Air Force, Paramedic, and private security contractor. We discuss his history as a private security contractor, beginning in 1986 through his departure in 2018.
Special Guest: Steven Hackworth.
","summary":"An interview discussion with guest Steven Hackworth.","date_published":"2020-07-10T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/e317a7bf-5141-425d-abf2-d32536a7fa35.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":37008739,"duration_in_seconds":4370}]},{"id":"4f018a4d-1959-4494-80dd-f4aee75eb3a5","title":"Season-1 Episode-6 with Giuseppe Squillante","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e6","content_text":"A full-length interview-discussion with Giuseppe Squillante, former member of the Italian Navy and private security contractor. Giuseppe worked in Iraq from 2004 until 2014. I spend time talking with him about his background and experiences while working in Iraq, and his decision to go back.Special Guest: Giuseppe Squillante.","content_html":"A full-length interview-discussion with Giuseppe Squillante, former member of the Italian Navy and private security contractor. Giuseppe worked in Iraq from 2004 until 2014. I spend time talking with him about his background and experiences while working in Iraq, and his decision to go back.
Special Guest: Giuseppe Squillante.
","summary":"An interview-discussion with Giuseppe Squillante and his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-07-03T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/4f018a4d-1959-4494-80dd-f4aee75eb3a5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35248038,"duration_in_seconds":4426}]},{"id":"c0fdb540-2456-43da-973b-b7f07c9b2116","title":"Season-1 Episode-5 with Dwayne Thompson","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e5","content_text":"Tune in to this special edition of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life as I interview/discuss private security contracting overseas with Mister Dwayne Thompson, former member of the UK Defense Forces and private security contractor. We discuss what he did prior to becoming a PSC and his perspective of private security contracting, particularly as how the industry has changed over the years and the utter professionalism currently in play. We also discuss the stresses, strains, and challenges of the contractor and the support back home.Special Guest: Dwayne Thompson.","content_html":"Tune in to this special edition of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life as I interview/discuss private security contracting overseas with Mister Dwayne Thompson, former member of the UK Defense Forces and private security contractor. We discuss what he did prior to becoming a PSC and his perspective of private security contracting, particularly as how the industry has changed over the years and the utter professionalism currently in play. We also discuss the stresses, strains, and challenges of the contractor and the support back home.
Special Guest: Dwayne Thompson.
","summary":"An interview-discussion with Mister Dwayne Thompson, former member of the UK Defense Forces and private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-06-26T06:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/c0fdb540-2456-43da-973b-b7f07c9b2116.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":37767132,"duration_in_seconds":4492}]},{"id":"1685e3a9-b93d-4537-8240-4e708670fb3f","title":"Season-1 Episode-4 with Recalled","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e4","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Recalled, former member of the U.S. Army's MP corps and private security contractor. We start with what he did prior to becoming a private security contractor, his transition from the military to private security contracting, and his challenges and experiences as a private security contractor overseas.Special Guest: Uncle Tom.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Recalled, former member of the U.S. Army's MP corps and private security contractor. We start with what he did prior to becoming a private security contractor, his transition from the military to private security contracting, and his challenges and experiences as a private security contractor overseas.
Special Guest: Uncle Tom.
","summary":"A discussion/interview with Recalled, and his experiences as a private security contractor overseas.","date_published":"2020-06-21T13:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/1685e3a9-b93d-4537-8240-4e708670fb3f.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":33459518,"duration_in_seconds":4064}]},{"id":"a943d121-0f34-4ba9-8f63-bdd5c8dc378a","title":"Season-1 Episode-3 with Darin Reid","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e3","content_text":"In this episode, I talk with Darin Reid -- former fire chief, paramedic, and private security contractor. We talk about his beginnings prior to contracting, how he got into the industry, and his experiences overseas as a private security contractor working overseas, especially while embedded with the local populace, outside the wire.Special Guest: Darin Reid.","content_html":"In this episode, I talk with Darin Reid -- former fire chief, paramedic, and private security contractor. We talk about his beginnings prior to contracting, how he got into the industry, and his experiences overseas as a private security contractor working overseas, especially while embedded with the local populace, outside the wire.
Special Guest: Darin Reid.
","summary":"An interview-discussion with Darin Reid and his experiences as a private security contractor overseas.","date_published":"2020-06-17T03:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a943d121-0f34-4ba9-8f63-bdd5c8dc378a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34658572,"duration_in_seconds":4112}]},{"id":"a28e9982-c2c3-4d82-b909-2e446550fb4c","title":"Season-1 Episode-2 with Myles White","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e2","content_text":"In this episode, we discuss some of the issues and challenges facing the American private security contractor as well as some the barriers we must overcome and some of the stereotypes that perpetuate our industry. Our guest is Myles White, former U.S. Army Airborne and Green Beret, and private security contractor. With more than 13-years in Special Forces and 22-years as a private security contractor to DoD and DoS contracts -- currently under contract in Kandahar, Afghanistan, Myles brings a wealth of experience to this episdoe.Special Guest: Myles White.","content_html":"In this episode, we discuss some of the issues and challenges facing the American private security contractor as well as some the barriers we must overcome and some of the stereotypes that perpetuate our industry. Our guest is Myles White, former U.S. Army Airborne and Green Beret, and private security contractor. With more than 13-years in Special Forces and 22-years as a private security contractor to DoD and DoS contracts -- currently under contract in Kandahar, Afghanistan, Myles brings a wealth of experience to this episdoe.
Special Guest: Myles White.
","summary":"In this episode, I talk with Myles White, a former United States Army Green Beret and current private security contractor about his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-06-12T06:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/a28e9982-c2c3-4d82-b909-2e446550fb4c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35212757,"duration_in_seconds":4230}]},{"id":"568cb71f-34a5-4f78-a2a4-bf4dd907b412","title":"Season-1 Episode-1 with Greg \"Doc\" Hesch","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/s1e1","content_text":"This inaugural episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life opens with a discussion/interview on the experiences of Greg \"Doc\" Hesch -- how he got his start in private security contracting, a look into what he did and where he did it, and what he is up to now. The discussion delves into the issues PSCs frequently endure while working overseas as well as their struggles reintegrating back into civilized society.Special Guest: Greg Hesch.","content_html":"This inaugural episode of OCONUS: The Contractor's Life opens with a discussion/interview on the experiences of Greg "Doc" Hesch -- how he got his start in private security contracting, a look into what he did and where he did it, and what he is up to now. The discussion delves into the issues PSCs frequently endure while working overseas as well as their struggles reintegrating back into civilized society.
Special Guest: Greg Hesch.
","summary":"A full interview/discussion with Greg \"Doc\" Hesch, a former member of the United States Air Force, paramedic, and former private security contractor. We talk about his experiences as a private security contractor.","date_published":"2020-06-07T03:30:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/568cb71f-34a5-4f78-a2a4-bf4dd907b412.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46849251,"duration_in_seconds":4351}]},{"id":"07668b7b-945c-4f41-85d4-31034b29640c","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Trailer 3","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/trailer3","content_text":"A longer and final trailer/teaser for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.","content_html":"A longer and final trailer/teaser for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.
","summary":"Third of three trailers for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.","date_published":"2020-06-06T12:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/07668b7b-945c-4f41-85d4-31034b29640c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":2182175,"duration_in_seconds":154}]},{"id":"d82f6233-6b5c-4206-8d20-56a8780df4d5","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Trailer 2","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/trailer2","content_text":"Second short trailer/teaser to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.","content_html":"Second short trailer/teaser to OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.
","summary":"Second of three trailers for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.","date_published":"2020-06-04T12:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/d82f6233-6b5c-4206-8d20-56a8780df4d5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":606065,"duration_in_seconds":42}]},{"id":"649172eb-5301-4729-9569-ccb2adb66c3b","title":"OCONUS: The Contractor's Life -- Trailer 1","url":"https://oconus.fireside.fm/trailer1","content_text":"A short trailer/teaser for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.","content_html":"A short trailer/teaser for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life.
","summary":"First of three trailers for OCONUS: The Contractor's Life","date_published":"2020-06-02T17:00:00.000-07:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/346cbf07-b771-447d-b374-a057c5a5dbdb/649172eb-5301-4729-9569-ccb2adb66c3b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":505054,"duration_in_seconds":33}]}]}