The MisFitNation

Richard LaMonica
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The MisFitNation Show: Empowering Stories of Resilience and Growth Welcome to The MisFitNation Show, hosted by Rich LaMonica, a proud US Army Veteran. Alongside a fellow Veteran and a prominent business leader, our mission is clear: to inspire and empower you to become a better human being. We spotlight the remarkable stories of Veterans and First Responders, showcasing their journeys of resilience, strength, and triumph over adversity. Each episode features captivating interviews with guests from diverse backgrounds, including authors, entrepreneurs, coaches, motivational speakers, and health & fitness professionals. Listeners will gain valuable insights, life lessons, and actionable advice from those who have faced challenges and achieved success. Whether it's the grit of our Veterans and First Responders or the expertise of thought leaders, The MisFitNation Show is a vibrant community dedicated to personal growth and collective well-being. Join us for an episode or become a regular listener! If you believe your story can inspire others, reach out to us to be a guest on the show. Accolades: 2025 Veteran Podcast of The Year - American Freedom Fund 2022 - Top 40 Over 40 - Podcast Magazine 2021 - Best Society and Culture Podcast - Veteran Podcast Awards Tune in to The MisFitNation Show, your ultimate platform for inspiration, motivation, and transformation. Discover stories that uplift and empower—because every voice matters! https://linktr.ee/themisfitnation

  1. 1D AGO

    200 Combat Rescue Missions | Air Force Pilot John Mangan on Leadership, Courage & The Three Rings Mindset

    What does it take to fly into the most dangerous situations on earth… to save someone else? On this episode of The MisFitNation Show, host Rich LaMonica sits down with Lt. Col. (Ret.) John Mangan, a decorated U.S. Air Force Combat Search and Rescue pilot who spent 25 years flying missions around the world. John flew the HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter, conducting some of the most dangerous missions in military aviation—rescuing downed pilots and wounded soldiers in hostile environments. Over the course of his career, he: • Flew over 200 combat missions • Deployed eight times to Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria • Commanded the 33rd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron in Kandahar • Flew alongside Pararescuemen, SEALs, Delta Force, Rangers, SAS and Australian Commandos His courage and leadership earned him some of the military’s most prestigious awards, including: 🏅 Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor (twice) 🏅 Air Medal (12 times) 🏅 Aerial Achievement Medal (twice) 🏅 The prestigious Cheney Award John’s missions and actions have been documented in books like Not a Good Day to Die, None Braver, Zero Six Bravo, and Dead Men Risen. Today, he continues serving others by sharing lessons from combat through writing and speaking. His latest book, The Three Rings Mindset, teaches readers how to train their minds, master emotions, sharpen focus, and perform at their highest potential—whether in combat, business, athletics, or everyday life. This conversation dives deep into leadership under pressure, resilience, focus, and the mindset required to perform when everything is on the line. What it’s really like to fly combat rescue missions The pressure of rescuing teammates in hostile environments Leadership lessons learned in combat How elite performers control emotions under pressure The Three Rings Mindset and how anyone can apply it Building resilience in high-stakes situations 🌐 Websitehttp://www.johnmanganbooks.com 📚 Books Into a Dark Frontier The Three Rings Mindset 🎥 YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@The_MisFitNation Join The Forge Leadership Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/4p7kx64z If this conversation helped you rethink leadership, resilience, or performance under pressure, drop a comment below: 👉 What lesson from John’s story stood out to you? 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📢 Share this episode with someone chasing excellence. 🎙️ In This Episode🔗 Learn More About John Mangan🔥 Follow The MisFitNation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 20m

  2. 2D AGO

    Army Veteran Omar Ritter: PTSD, Brain Surgery & Leadership Truth

    What does real leadership look like when everything falls apart? In this powerful episode of The ToosDay Crüe, hosts Jake Holland and Stephen LaMonica sit down with Omar Ritter, a West Point graduate, Bronze Star recipient, and former corporate executive who has led both soldiers in combat and billion-dollar operations in the financial world. From the battlefields of Iraq to boardrooms at major institutions, Omar’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and truth. But behind the success lies a story few talk about—surviving an 18-hour brain surgery, battling PTSD, and choosing to confront the realities of mental health head-on. Today, Omar is on a mission to redefine leadership—showing that strength is not about silence, but about authenticity, courage, and connection. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll discover: Leadership lessons from combat and corporate America The hidden cost of high performance and success Overcoming PTSD and reclaiming identity Why vulnerability is the new leadership advantage How to build resilience without losing yourself This is more than a conversation—it’s a wake-up call for leaders, veterans, and anyone navigating pressure, purpose, and personal growth. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, inspire, and build leaders: The MisFitNation & ToosDay Crüe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 7m

  3. 4D AGO

    He Survived a Brain Injury… Then Found His True Purpose

    On this episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes David E. Reddick — a leader whose life journey connects military service, faith, leadership, science, and personal transformation. David served six years in the United States Navy as an aviation ordnance specialist working with F/A-18 Hornet weapons systems, earning multiple commendations including the Stand-Out Warrior Award for decisive action under pressure. After his military service, David continued to serve his community in powerful ways — from earning his education at Jacksonville State University to serving as Anniston, Alabama’s Ward 2 City Councilman and contributing to several civic leadership boards. But one of the most powerful parts of David’s story is his journey as a veteran living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) — and how he found purpose, growth, and a deeper perspective through the challenges that followed. Today, as an author of nine books, speaker, mentor, and media host, David shares lessons on resilience, faith, leadership, and unlocking human potential. In this powerful conversation, we discuss: • Life in the Navy working with F/A-18 Hornet aviation weapons systems • Living as a veteran navigating traumatic brain injury (TBI) • How adversity can create unexpected growth and purpose • Leadership lessons from military service and public office • Using faith, humor, and wisdom to inspire transformation David’s mission is simple but powerful:Help individuals and communities discover resilience, purpose, and higher potential. Learn more about his work:www.davidereddick.com Subscribe to The MisFitNation for conversations with veterans, leaders, and changemakers who turn adversity into strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr

  4. APR 3

    Purple Heart Veteran Fighting for His Rights | Jeremy Jackson’s Story of War, Injury & Justice

    What happens when a soldier survives combat overseas only to face a different battle at home? In this powerful episode of The MisFitNation Show, host Rich LaMonica sits down with Purple Heart combat veteran Jeremy Kevin Jackson. Jeremy served in the United States Army and was severely wounded in Iraq on August 13, 2005, when a 7.62mm sniper round struck his left arm, causing permanent nerve damage and paralysis. The injury ultimately led to his medical retirement from the Army. Despite living with these disabilities, Jeremy focused on rebuilding his life and raising his two sons. But according to Jeremy, his life took a dramatic turn when legal actions and allegations led to criminal charges and the removal of his children from his custody. Those charges were later dismissed, yet Jeremy says the legal battle continued. Jeremy is currently the plaintiff in an active federal civil rights lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania (Case No. 2:25-cv-00420). His lawsuit alleges constitutional violations, due process concerns, malicious prosecution, and misconduct related to his case. In this conversation, Jeremy shares his story, his perspective on what happened, and why he believes his experience highlights larger issues within family courts and legal systems that affect parents across the country. ⚠️ Important Note: The matters discussed in this episode involve an ongoing legal case, and all allegations discussed reflect Jeremy Jackson’s claims and perspective. Jeremy’s military service and combat injury in Iraq Living with permanent disability after war The challenges veterans face when returning home His ongoing federal civil rights lawsuit The emotional impact of family court battles Why he is speaking publicly about due process and accountability 🎥 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@The_MisFitNation 🔥 Join The Forge Leadership Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/4p7kx64z 📩 Send questions or guest suggestions through our social media channels. What are your thoughts on due process, parental rights, and accountability in legal systems? Drop a comment below and join the conversation. 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📢 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this story. 🎙️ In This Episode We Discuss🔗 Follow & Support The MisFitNation💬 CALL TO ACTION Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 5m

  5. APR 2

    Thanks for hanging with us tonight!

    On this episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes Daryl Dittmer, a man whose philosophy on life and leadership is built on real experience rather than ideology. Raised in a blue-collar family where hard work and responsibility were non-negotiable, Daryl learned early the lessons that come from long days, discipline, and personal accountability. Over the years he has worked as a farmhand, carpenter, sales professional, business owner, builder, landlord, investor, and consultant — building multiple businesses while learning firsthand what creates success and what quietly destroys it. After decades of hard-earned lessons, mentorship, and personal rebuilding, Daryl returned to the fundamentals that most people overlook: honesty with oneself, daily structure, and the simple power of keeping your word. Today, through his writing, speaking, and coaching at Daryl Dittmer Coaching, he helps people who are tired of drifting rediscover discipline, clarity, and self-respect. In this powerful conversation we discuss: • Why discipline is the foundation of a meaningful life • The hidden danger of drifting through life without structure • Lessons learned from building and exiting multiple businesses • The importance of personal honesty and accountability • Why the most important question in life might be: “Are you ready to show up?” Daryl now lives with his wife Kristina in the mountains of North Georgia, where a quieter life reinforces the same timeless principles he teaches. If you are searching for clarity, purpose, discipline, and leadership, this episode delivers hard truths and powerful insights. Learn more:https://www.daryldittmer.com/ Subscribe to The MisFitNation for conversations with leaders, veterans, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who turn adversity into strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  6. MAR 31

    Life, Death & Healing: Hospice Expert Leann Thrapp Shares Wisdom

    On this episode of The ToosDay Crüe, hosts Jake Holland and Stephen LaMonica welcome Leann Thrapp, a nurse, speaker, and compassionate guide who has spent 40 years helping individuals and families navigate life’s most profound transitions. Leann’s remarkable career spans high-risk obstetrics, labor and delivery, and hospice care, where she has supported people through both the beginning and the end of life. As a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Administrator, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that patients and families experience dignity, peace, and compassion during life’s final chapter. Through her work with New Haven Healing, Leann blends traditional medical experience with holistic practices such as Reiki, sound healing, and biofield therapy, supporting emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Leann has also worked closely with veterans at the end of life and is recognized as a veteran champion, advocating for the unique needs of those who served our nation. In this powerful and thoughtful conversation, we discuss: • What an end-of-life doula does and why the role is growing • Lessons learned from decades beside patients and families • Helping veterans find peace and dignity at the end of life • The role of compassion, forgiveness, and healing in life’s final chapter • How holistic approaches like sound healing and Reiki support well-being Leann is also the author of the forthcoming book Cradled on Both Sides, a moving collection of bedside stories from veterans and civilians reflecting on life, loss, and love. This episode offers a powerful reminder that life is meant to be lived fully, with compassion, openness, and connection until the very end. Learn more about her work: Newhavenhealing.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 3m

  7. MAR 26

    Veterans Need Purpose: Shamika White on Life After the Uniform

    On this episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes Shamika White, a powerful voice advocating for veteran connection, purpose, and mental wellness. As the Executive Director of the Rod Lemon Foundation, Shamika leads programs designed to support veterans navigating life after military service. Her work focuses on helping former service members rediscover identity, rebuild community, and embrace non-traditional approaches to mental wellness. Shamika believes that service does not end when the uniform comes off. Through speaking engagements, mentorship, and advocacy, she challenges veterans to redefine strength, reconnect with purpose, and continue supporting one another long after their time in uniform. In this powerful conversation we explore: • The hidden struggles many veterans face after transition • Why identity and purpose are critical to veteran mental health • The importance of community and connection for former service members • Non-traditional approaches to mental wellness for veterans • How organizations like the Rod Lemon Foundation are helping veterans thrive This episode is a powerful reminder that the mission doesn’t end when military service does—it simply changes. Learn more about the Rod Lemon Foundation:www.rodlemonfoundation.org Subscribe to The MisFitNation for more conversations with veterans, leaders, and changemakers who turn adversity into purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr

  8. MAR 24

    Lisa Bradley: R. Riveter CEO Empowering Military Spouse Careers

    In this powerful episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes Lisa Bradley, CEO and Co-Founder of R. Riveter, a mission-driven company creating meaningful employment for military spouses across the United States. What began as a small group of military spouse artisans has grown into a nationally recognized lifestyle brand, combining timeless American design with purpose-driven manufacturing. Through a distributed manufacturing model, R. Riveter now supports hundreds of military families, proving that entrepreneurship can also be a mission of service. Lisa’s leadership blends creative storytelling with data-driven strategy. With a background in marketing, commercial sales, and data management—and an MBA to match—she has built teams that transform bold ideas into real impact. Today, the brand operates across direct-to-consumer, wholesale, Amazon, and retail channels, reaching customers in all 50 states. Lisa has become a national voice for military spouse entrepreneurship and resilient leadership, sharing her story on major media outlets including Fox & Friends and Varney & Co.. In this episode we explore: • Building a mission-driven brand with purpose • Supporting military families through entrepreneurship • Scaling a company while staying true to mission • Leadership lessons from growing a national brand • Turning service and resilience into business success If you believe in leadership, entrepreneurship, and supporting the military community, this episode will inspire you. Subscribe to The MisFitNation for powerful conversations with leaders, veterans, entrepreneurs, and difference-makers who are stacking victories and forging impact.  🎯 Subscribe | Like | Share | 📌 Watch the FULL episode right here: https://www.YouTube.com/@The_MisFitNation 🌐 Connect with us at www.themisfitnation.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 min
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About

The MisFitNation Show: Empowering Stories of Resilience and Growth Welcome to The MisFitNation Show, hosted by Rich LaMonica, a proud US Army Veteran. Alongside a fellow Veteran and a prominent business leader, our mission is clear: to inspire and empower you to become a better human being. We spotlight the remarkable stories of Veterans and First Responders, showcasing their journeys of resilience, strength, and triumph over adversity. Each episode features captivating interviews with guests from diverse backgrounds, including authors, entrepreneurs, coaches, motivational speakers, and health & fitness professionals. Listeners will gain valuable insights, life lessons, and actionable advice from those who have faced challenges and achieved success. Whether it's the grit of our Veterans and First Responders or the expertise of thought leaders, The MisFitNation Show is a vibrant community dedicated to personal growth and collective well-being. Join us for an episode or become a regular listener! If you believe your story can inspire others, reach out to us to be a guest on the show. Accolades: 2025 Veteran Podcast of The Year - American Freedom Fund 2022 - Top 40 Over 40 - Podcast Magazine 2021 - Best Society and Culture Podcast - Veteran Podcast Awards Tune in to The MisFitNation Show, your ultimate platform for inspiration, motivation, and transformation. Discover stories that uplift and empower—because every voice matters! https://linktr.ee/themisfitnation

Information

  • Creator
    Richard LaMonica
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    635
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Richard LaMonica
  • Show Website
    The MisFitNation