Top Game Episode 32 - CWO Trebor Whitehead
Top Game Podcast
In this insightful episode of Top Game, host Sammy Castro sits down with Chief Warrant Officer Trebor Whitehead to explore the multifaceted world of military leadership and the evolving landscape of warfare technology. Join us as we delve into personal growth, mentorship, and the importance of staying ahead in the dynamic field of military operations. Key Highlights: Introduction to Chief Warrant Officer Trebor Whitehead Opening thoughts and the significance of today’s discussion. Early Career and Personal Growth Reflections on the initial stages of military careers and the importance...
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Top Game Episode 31 - CWO4 Nate Cherubini
Top Game Podcast
Nate & I sat down at my basement bar in Virginia to connect. We never had the opportunity to serve together in the same unit, so we took advantage of a conference to set time aside to record this interview. Initially, he was reluctant because he thought he had nothing to offer the audience. I knew better. His views on agency, mindset, and leaving it all out on the field are crucial takeaways. Our conversation covers topics spanning family readiness, the natural tension between the information & intelligence warfighting functions, and the need to tailor the application of leadership...
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Top Game Episode 30 - MSgt Nate Bailey
Top Game Podcast
Episode 30 has been a long time coming. Top Bailey & I first "met" on Reddit when he reached out to say thanks for creating a forum for us to discuss to us. Since we've been in contact, he's been a great sounding board to help provide insight into what our community needs to hear: "Intimate conversations with Marines exploring their journeys, perspectives & experiences." Nate & I discuss courage, being a perpetual novice, as well as the link between humility & empathy. Thanks for tuning in.
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Top Game Episode 29 - Marshall Troy - BJJ Black Belt
Top Game Podcast
Marshall Troy is a close personal friend and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt. He is a stalwart ambassador for jiu jitsu as therapy, particularly for veterans battling ptsd and struggling to cope with suicide ideation. In the interview, we cover our common close ties with LGBT family members, how that has impacted our dealings with those around us and the influence we can make on those coping with a lack of acceptance, ostracism and targeted hate.
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Top Game Episode 28 - SSgt Antuan Martin
Top Game Podcast
Episode 28 brings us to SSgt Antuan Martin. We cover a spectrum of topics spanning strength training, jiu-jitsu, learning styles, audio production, and even video games in our conversation. Themes in the discussion include the individual Marine's value to the institution and the dynamic nature of camaraderie. His perspective on the value of initiative reminds us of the importance for senior leaders to cultivate an environment whereby their subordinates are permitted to "dare greatly" without fear.
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Top Game Episode 27 - MSgt Samuel Castro - 2020 SITREP
Top Game Podcast
Following a hectic PCS move from Okinawa to the Pentagon, we're finally back up and running with plenty of high value targets in the vicinity to link up with. Thanks for all your support. Thanks for your patience. Fortitudine.
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Top Game Episode 26 - MSgt Tom Dean (Ret.)
Top Game Podcast
Episode 26 is one of the first episodes I ever recorded during a trip to San Angelo for an OCCFLD working group. Tom promoted me to Sgt back in 2002 before I hit the Fleet. In conversation, we discuss a range of topics from the influence of the Senior Enlisted, the impact of technology on operations, the opposing priorities between the strategic & operational spheres, the importance of maintaining contact with fellow Marines, and the bond we enjoy with one another.
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Top Game Episode 25 - MGySgt Rich Deuto
Top Game Podcast
In Episode 25, I finally sit down with the outgoing Operations Chief of III MEF Information Group, MGySgt Rich Deuto. As he heads back to familiar territory as the incoming Senior Enlisted Leader for Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, we investigate his passion for history, the impact of growing up as a Marine brat, as well as the impact that has had on his won family as his son later joined the Marine Corps.
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Top Game Episode 24 - MGySgt Leon Ransom, Jr.
Top Game Podcast
Episode 24 highlights Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion’s Senior Enlisted, MGySgt Leon Ransom, Jr., a single father currently preparing his family for assignment overseas in Okinawa, Japan. MGuns highlights the dangers of Retirement On Active Duty (ROAD), how to engage with the monitor, and the significance of advocacy and proponency. A central component to his message is the interdependency between family readiness and national security. In his words, “Family is the basis of all things.”
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Top Game Episode 23 - MSgt Saul Barajas (Ret.)
Top Game Podcast
Episode 23 brings us to Saul and Claudia Barajas. Our paths diverged for many years but our bond remained intact. Tragically, his family suffered the devastating loss of their daughter, Caprice, in 2011. What followed was a combination of denial, anger, and depression coupled with redemption and restored faith. In the course of our conversation, we explore the beauty of the military community and the support system that guided them through the “worst of times.”
info_outlineIn Episode 25, I finally sit down with the outgoing Operations Chief of III MEF Information Group, MGySgt Rich Deuto. As he heads back to familiar territory as the incoming Senior Enlisted Leader for Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, we investigate his passion for history, the impact of growing up as a Marine brat, as well as the impact that has had on his won family as his son later joined the Marine Corps.
His arrival on Okinawa two years ago was my opportunity to have a 2691 MGuns on island with me that I could engage with regularly for much the same kind of professional discussions you hear on this podcast. I held off as long as I could to record this episode because I wanted to have as much observation time before the interview. Personally, the interviews which focus on a guest with whom I have a strong personal relationship are the most intimate. I’m sure you’ll agree the exchange was value added to the show.