The Two-Promises Podcast

BD
  • 4.8 (21)
  • Philosophy
  • Updated Weekly

When you're out for a night with the BD, it's bound to be an adventure. Along the way you'll likely encounter myths, moonshiners, and mad mojo. With experiences like these, where deep roots are formed and you never know where the adventure may lead next, it's bound to lead to deep connections and lots of laughter. Having been overseas and out of touch with the USA for the last 14 years, a lot has changed. With your help, BD can better understand a world that was once familiar but is now somewhat foreign, his home… America. So what do you have to lose? Join us on the journey by simply entering your email below for access to the weirdness, wild times, bourbon and all sorts of other curious shenanigans. This is our story. If you want to know more about what it is going to be like, well we can only make you Two Promises.

  1. 21h ago

    Brian Simcoe (Part 2): Inside the B-29 Superfortress, the Cinco de Mayo Crash, and the Reality of Evasion

    🎬 Brian Simcoe (Part 2): Inside the B-29 Superfortress, the Cinco de Mayo Crash, and the Reality of Evasion Episode Summary "All those guys every day got on that plane and went and did the same thing day after day after day, knowing what could happen... Those are some brave or crazy sons of bitches." In Part 2 of this 4-part series, Air Force veteran Brian Simcoe joins host Brent Loyd to dive deeper into the technical marvel of the B-29 Superfortress and the tragic story of his great-uncle's final mission during World War II. Brian details the cutting-edge technology of the B-29—from pressurized cabins and advanced fire-control computers to remote-controlled gun turrets. The conversation shifts to the Pacific Theater campaign, tracing the brutal island-hopping operations, Seabee engineering feats, and the realities of operating out of Guam. Brian walks through the fateful night of May 5, 1945 (Cinco de Mayo), when his great-uncle's B-29 bomber was struck in a mid-air collision near Kyushu, Japan, forcing the crew to eject over enemy territory. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights Engineering the B-29 Superfortress: Pressurized cabins, remote weapon systems, advanced bomb sights, and 12 .50-caliber machine guns. Evolution of Remote Weapon Systems: Comparing 1940s remote gun turrets to modern military CROWS (Common Remotely Operated Weapon Stations). Guam & Pacific Operations: The vital role of Seabee engineers in building roads, airfields, and staging bases across rugged Pacific islands. The Cinco de Mayo 1945 Mid-Air Collision: The tragic collision between a Japanese fighter and a B-29 bomber 15 miles off the Japanese coast. Egress & Evasion over Enemy Territory: Bailout procedures, midnight depressurization, and the grim reality facing bomber crews jumping over Japan. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:02:07] B-29 Advanced Systems: Pressurized flight suits, early fly-by-wire, and remote gun turrets. B29 Superfortress Pressurized Cabin [00:03:40] 1940s vs. Modern Remote Weapons: Host BD compares B-29 remote turrets to modern military CROWS systems. CROWS Remote Weapon System History [00:05:03] Payload & Evolution: B-29 bombing capacities and the rapid transition to jet-powered B-52s. B29 vs B52 Bomber Payload [00:06:40] Pacific Theater Realities: Island history in Guam, Okinawa, and the Philippines during WWII. WWII Pacific Island Hopping History [00:09:56] The Role of the Navy Seabees: Building critical airfields, roads, and infrastructure under fire. Navy Seabees World War II History [00:12:10] The Military as a Symbiotic Machine: How logistics, Seabees, Marines, and Air Corps relied on each other. WWII Military Logistics Integration [00:14:07] The May 5, 1945 Mission: Staging out of Guam, bombing Tachiarai Airfield, and the return flight. Tachiarai Airfield Bombing May 1945 [00:16:23] Kamikaze vs. Mechanical Failure: Examining the Japanese account of the mid-air collision over Kyushu. WWII Mid Air Collision Kyushu [00:20:13] Midnight Depressurization & Bailout: The chaotic seconds inside the burning B-29 before crew ejection. B29 Bomber Bailout Egress Procedures About the Guest Brian Simcoe is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served as a vehicle operator, completing duty at Dover Air Force Base and deploying to Saudi Arabia. He is dedicated to preserving military history and honoring the service of his great-uncle and grandfather during World War II. Closing Message & Call to Action "Follow your training, keep your faith, and honor the crew." Understanding the extreme risks faced by WWII aircrews reminds us of the true cost of aviation history. Keep the Story Going: Preserve Military History: Document local or family military stories before historical accounts fade. Support Veteran Organizations: Back initiatives assisting veterans with service-connected brain injuries and physical recovery. Share the Episode: Send this show to an aviation enthusiast, history buff, or veteran. #BrianSimcoe #B29Superfortress #WorldWarTwo #PacificTheater #GuamHistory #AviationHistory #NavySeabees #MilitaryAviation #TwoPromisesPodcast #AirForceHistory #CincoDeMayo1945

  2. 21h ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Also Like: Adventures of Curiosity Cove

    Introducing The Roughest Day of the Year from Adventures of Curiosity Cove. Follow the show: Adventures of Curiosity Cove Sadie's Summer Series is a screen-free children's audio story perfect for bedtime, car rides, and quiet time. In Entry 1, Sadie opens her diary on the last day of summer camp, and it's the roughest day of the year. She takes us through everything that makes camp the single most amazing place in the world: banana boating, mud pits, bouncy houses, campfire nights, and most importantly — friends. But now her parents are here to take her home, and the feelings are big, messy, and very real. Curiosity Cove's Sadie's Summer Series is a diary-style audio story for kids ages 4-12 that helps children navigate big emotions like change, transition, belonging, and the bittersweet feeling of loving two different worlds. No screen needed! Just ears and imagination. Perfect for parents looking for screen-free storytime, audiobooks for kids, and children's podcasts that actually mean something. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

    You Might Also Like: Adventures of Curiosity Cove

  3. Aug 31

    Brian Simcoe (Part 1): Upstate Roots, Overseas Service, and the Prelude to the Pacific War

    "He was in his mid-twenties. He was already married and his wife was pregnant when he left. So he ended up with a daughter that he never met... Super tragic story there." In the first installment of this 4-part series, Air Force veteran Brian Simcoe joins host BD to share the story of his great-uncle's service as a B-29 Superfortress crew member during World War II. Brian recounts growing up in Upstate New York, detailing his family's deep roots, outdoorsman lifestyle, and local high school hijinks before the outbreak of World War II sent his grandfather to the Marine Corps and his great-uncle to the Army Air Forces. Brian reflects on his own Air Force service at Dover Air Force Base—honoring fallen service members coming home—and his deployment to Saudi Arabia. The conversation builds into an analysis of the Pacific Theater, comparing European and Pacific war dynamics, Japanese imperial expansion, the extreme cost of the B-29 development program, and the strategic importance of modern global allies. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights Upstate New York Roots: Growing up in the Utica area—hunting, fishing, sports, and community life before World War II. Service at Dover Air Force Base: The somber honor of receiving flag-draped caskets and honoring fallen service members. Life in Saudi Arabia: Vehicle operations, war readiness material, and historical perspectives on U.S. presence in the Middle East. The B-29 Superfortress Program: The technological marvel that cost $3 billion—surpassing the $2 billion price tag of the Manhattan Project. Pacific Theater vs. European Theater: Comparing the scale, brutality, strategic complexities, and resource battles of World War II. Geopolitical Connections: Examining historic imperial expansions alongside modern energy security, economic stability, and international alliances. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:01:10] Meet Brian Simcoe: Reconnecting after meeting on a music video set and introducing his family's World War II history. Brian Simcoe Two Promises [00:01:54] Upstate New York Beginnings: Life near Utica, hunting, fishing, and close family bonds before the war. Upstate New York WWII Veterans [00:03:50] Rowdy Youth & Local Hijinks: Growing up playing hockey, football, racing motorcycles, and high school pranks. 1930s Upstate New York Life [00:05:08] Brian's Air Force Service: Enlisting in 1992, serving at Dover AFB, and honoring fallen service members. Dover AFB Mortuary Affairs Honor [00:07:12] Deployment to Saudi Arabia: Hauling munitions, fuel, heavy equipment, and managing war readiness gear. Air Force Vehicle Operations Saudi Arabia [00:10:10] Choosing the Branch: Why Brian selected the Air Force over the Marine Corps and Navy. Air Force vs Marine Corps Enlistment [00:12:44] Pre-WWII Global Dynamics: Isolationist U.S. policies, Pearl Harbor, and expanding Pacific conflicts. Pre WWII American Foreign Policy [00:15:05] Japanese Imperial Expansion: Resource gathering, petroleum needs, and Pacific island-hopping in the early 20th century. WWII Pacific Theater History [00:18:47] Pacific vs. European Theaters: Comparing the scale, documentation, and human toll of both WWII fronts. Pacific War vs European War [00:24:21] Modern Alliances & Currency: Post-war Japanese-American relations, regional security, and global economic stability. US Japan Strategic Alliance [00:25:20] The Engineering of the B-29: How the pressurized bomber program outpaced the cost of the Manhattan Project. B-29 Superfortress Production Cost About the Guest Brian Simcoe is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served as a vehicle operator, completing duty at Dover Air Force Base and deploying to Saudi Arabia. He is a passionate military history enthusiast dedicated to preserving the legacy and stories of his family members who served in World War II. Closing Message & Call to Action "Don't let their stories be forgotten." Understanding the sacrifices of past generations helps us navigate the complexities of the modern world. Keep the Legacy Alive: Explore Family History: Ask your elders about their service and record their stories before they are lost to time. Support Veteran Mental Health: Traumatic brain injuries and service-related challenges affect countless veterans. Help raise awareness in your local community. Subscribe & Share: Send this episode to a history buff, veteran, or friend who appreciates authentic military storytelling. #BrianSimcoe #WorldWarTwo #B29Superfortress #PacificTheater #AirForceVeteran #DoverAFB #MilitaryHistory #VeteransStory #TwoPromisesPodcast #AmericanHistory #WWIIAviation #NeverForget

  4. Aug 24

    Rob Sweetman (Part 3): The Crucible of Failure, Spy Games, and the Rhythm of Nature

    "Without risk of death or total failure, a lot of things aren't even worth doing." In the final chapter of our 3-part series, retired Navy SEAL operator and sleep scientist Rob Sweetman joins host BD to break down the philosophy of human resilience, the necessity of failure, and his upcoming calendar of events designed to fund veteran brain health. Rob discusses why half the field dropped out during the inaugural Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR) and why he refuses to make the 62-mile Colorado Backcountry course any easier for future competitors. He explains the psychological mechanics of using a fixed "crucible date" (like a race or a jujitsu tournament) to eliminate rudderless living and force daily discipline. Rob also unveils upcoming 62Romeo initiatives, including Father-Son retreats at Happy Canyon Ranch, an exclusive Telluride gala, and "Spy Games"—an immersive tactical surveillance auction item in an unnamed U.S. city leading directly into RLIAR 2027. In the final Debrief & Cocktails (DB&C) segment, host BD synthesizes three core life takeaways: applying the SEAL operational priority hierarchy (Team, Buddy, Self), setting hard calendar dates to force personal transformation, and starving allostatic load through nature-based circadian resets. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights Forcing Human Resilience: Why high-stakes physical challenges with a genuine risk of failure are essential for building purpose and group cohesion. The 2027 RLIAR Blueprint: Behind-the-scenes adjustments for upcoming race cycles, including secret challenges, enhanced foot care, and augmented search-and-rescue capabilities. The Journey vs. The Finish Line: Reframing a DNF (Did Not Finish) from a stopping point into a data point for self-development and lifelong bonding. Father-Son Wilderness Retreats: Addressing the modern crisis of male connection by teaching young men values, leadership, and outdoor survival skills. Spy Games & Gala: An exclusive look at 62Romeo's high-stakes fundraising events—from black-tie galas in Telluride to urban tactical surveillance experiences. The SEAL Priority Hierarchy: Applying the team-first mentality (Team Gear First, Buddy's Gear Second, Personal Gear Last) to corporate leadership, marriages, and friendships.   ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:01:11] The Architect of Pain: Rob reflects on watching teams hit rock bottom within six hours of race start. RLIAR Race Cutoffs [00:03:00] The Platinum Points System: Balancing 62 miles of alpine navigation with secret physical side challenges. Backcountry Race Strategy [00:05:24] Why Failure is Mandatory: The necessity of putting athletes into no-shit scenarios to build resilience. Psychology of Extreme Failure [00:08:14] Lessons for the DNF Athletes: Processing race failure as a multi-month journey of team bonding rather than an outcome. Overcoming Mental Setbacks [00:11:42] Sleep as the First Domino: How setting a hard competition date eliminates rudderless living. Sleep Science and Performance [00:14:01] The Jujitsu Tournament Analogy: Why committing to a fixed crucible forces daily training discipline. High Performance Mindset [00:17:23] Where 62Romeo Funds Go: Funding 501(c)(3) SLEEP101 scholarships and Happy Canyon Ranch retreats. 62Romeo Veteran Scholarships [00:18:38] Father-Son Leadership Retreats: Rebuilding masculine mentorship and outdoor connection for young men. Father Son Wilderness Retreats [00:20:18] The Legacy of SO1 Ryan Larkin: Remembering how a SEAL's brain donation revolutionized blast-injury research. Ryan Larkin TBI Research [00:25:20] Spy Games & Telluride Gala: Unveiling 62Romeo's flagship auction item—a live tactical surveillance experience. Spy Games Tactical Experience [00:27:10] The Backcountry Homecoming: Giving veterans and first responders the parade and recognition they deserve. RLIAR Telluride Finish Line [00:32:11] Debrief & Cocktails (DB&C): Host BD breaks down three core life takeaways from the episode. Two Promises Debrief and Cocktails [00:32:35] Takeaway #1 - Team Gear First: Applying the SEAL priority hierarchy to build trust in your daily life. Navy SEAL Leadership Ethos [00:33:50] Takeaway #2 - Put a Hard Date on the Crucible: Ending vague goals by putting a non-negotiable challenge on the calendar. Setting Hard Goals Discipline [00:35:14] Takeaway #3 - Starve the Allostatic Load: Escaping concrete boxes to reset nervous systems in nature. Resetting Allostatic Load Nature About the Guest Rob Sweetman is a retired Navy SEAL operator, sleep scientist, and founder of 62Romeo and the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR). Following his service in Special Operations, Rob dedicated his career to researching sleep health, brain performance, and nervous system recovery for veterans, first responders, and high-performers. To learn more about the race, review live tracking, or support veteran scholarships, visit the official site at rliar.org . Closing Message & Call to Action "Ounces equal pounds, and vague goals yield vague results." Stop saying you'll get healthier or fix your recovery—put a hard date on your calendar, step into the arena, and carry the weight for your team. Support the Mission & Join the Arena: Donate & Sponsor: Head to rliar.org to back 501(c)(3) initiatives providing 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive scholarships for Veterans and First Responders. Apply for RLIAR 2027: Applications for the next Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (June 11–13, 2027) open on January 11 at rliar.org . Assemble your 4-person team and start training. Inquire About Retreats & Galas: Learn more about Father-Son retreats and the Telluride Gala/Spy Games experience by reaching out via rliar.org . Starve Your Load: Block out time this weekend to leave your phone in the car, get out into nature, and let your nervous system reset under the open sky. #Hashtags for SEO #RobSweetman #RyanLarkin #RLIAR2027 #62Romeo #SLEEP101 #NavySEAL #OperatorSyndrome #SpyGames #FatherSonRetreat #ColoradoBackcountry #VeteranHealth #TBIRecovery #TwoPromisesPodcast #DebriefAndCocktails #CrucibleMindset

  5. Aug 17

    Rob Sweetman (Part 2): Systemic Failures, The Non-Benzo Epidemic, and Resetting the Nervous System in Nature

    "All of us have wrong turns and bad stuff that happens in life, but not all of us take our lives." In Part 2 of this 3-part series, retired Navy SEAL operator and sleep scientist Rob Sweetman joins us to dive into the uncomfortable truths surrounding veteran healthcare, systemic medical failures, and the root causes of the suicide epidemic among elite operators. Rob expands on the tragic downfall of his platoon mentor, Navy SEAL SO1 Ryan Francis Larkin, exploring how chronic blast exposure, allostatic load, and institutional betrayal can beat down even the most resilient warriors. He delivers an unfiltered critique of the pharmaceutical industry and the VA healthcare system, warning of an underrated "non-benzo epidemic" caused by long-term sleep prescriptions (like Ambien and Lunesta) given without root-cause analysis. Rob outlines how his 62Romeo online sleep curriculum and the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR) utilize diurnal temperature shifts, sunlight, and natural microbials to reset human circadian rhythms in just four days without drugs. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Critical Mass of Operator Syndrome: How the cumulative weight of traumatic brain injuries (TBI), combat stress, and systemic command betrayal leads to mental health crises. The Non-Benzo Epidemic: Why taking FDA-approved sleep aids (Ambien, Lunesta) for years instead of weeks creates severe neurological dependence and health risks. Flow State Leadership: Applying Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's flow state model (balancing skill competency against challenge degree) to direct high-performing teams. Nature as Medicine: The scientific evidence behind wilderness exposure—how breathing in natural forest microbials boosts the human immune system for weeks. The Critique of the Medical System: Why insurance-driven healthcare models focus on profit-based labeling and pill-dispensing over nutrition, exercise, and nervous system regulation. 62Romeo SLEEP101 Scholarships: How funds raised through RLIAR directly sponsor intensive recovery programs for Veterans and First Responders. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:01:33] The Old Guy/New Guy Dynamic: Rob recalls his early days in Alpha Platoon at SEAL Team Seven. Navy SEAL Platoon Initiation [00:03:54] The Downfall of SO1 Ryan Larkin: Examining the combination of TBI, personal setbacks, and command betrayal. Ryan Larkin Navy SEAL Story [00:05:30] The Suicide Epidemic in Special Ops: Why even top-tier "pipe hitters" succumb to cumulative service injuries. Veteran Suicide Prevention Research [00:07:56] The Morning Bullhorn: Rob credits BD for managing the 4:00 AM launch and keeping racers motivated. RLIAR Race Logistics [00:10:02] Resetting the Circadian Rhythm: How four days in the wilderness resets human sleep patterns naturally. Resetting Circadian Rhythm Nature [00:12:28] Flow State in Event Operations: Applying Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's framework to team leadership. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi Flow State [00:15:56] The Flaws of Modern Healthcare: Why the pharmaceutical industry prioritizes lifetime prescriptions over root cures. Pharmaceutical Critique Veterans [00:18:19] The Danger of Non-Benzos: Examining the long-term health consequences of chronic Ambien and Lunesta use. Ambien Side Effects Long Term [00:20:40] Labeling vs. Healing: Why traditional DSM-5 psychiatric diagnoses often fail military veterans. DSM 5 Military Critique [00:26:46] The 2027 RLIAR Challenge: Rob opens the challenge to 4-person adventure teams for the next race cycle. Ryan Larkin Invitational Application About the Guest Rob Sweetman is a retired Navy SEAL operator, sleep scientist, and founder of 62Romeo and the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR). Following his service in Special Operations, Rob dedicated his career to researching sleep health, brain performance, and nervous system recovery for veterans, first responders, and high-performers. To learn more about the race, review live tracking, or support veteran scholarships, visit the official site at rliar.org . Closing Message & Call to Action "Nature does everything else for me." Rob Sweetman reminds us that healing doesn't come from a pill bottle—it comes from stepping into the woods, fixing your sleep, and leaning into the community around you. Support the Mission & Apply for RLIAR: Fund a Veteran Scholarship: Visit rliar.org to donate directly to 501(c)(3) initiatives providing 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive scholarships for Veterans and First Responders. Take the Challenge: Applications for the next Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race across the Colorado Backcountry open on January 11 at rliar.org . Gather a 4-person team and test your limits. Step Outside: Audit your recovery tonight. Turn off the screens, step out into nature, and restore your nervous system naturally. #RobSweetman #RyanLarkin #RLIAR2026 #62Romeo #SLEEP101 #NavySEAL #OperatorSyndrome #CircadianRhythm #NonBenzoDependence #SleepScience #ColoradoBackcountry #VeteranHealth #TBIRecovery #TwoPromisesPodcast

  6. Aug 10

    Rob Sweetman (Part 1): The Operator Syndrome, Sleep Science, and the Legacy of Navy SEAL Ryan Larkin

    "They say SEAL training is the hardest training in the world... but the truth is, we're not robots." In the Season 3 premiere of this 3-part series, retired Navy SEAL Rob Sweetman joins host BD to debrief the inaugural Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR)—a grueling 62-mile military simulation through the rugged Colorado Backcountry. Rob pulls back the curtain on the inspiration behind the race: the life, service, and tragic loss of his platoon mentor, Navy SEAL SO1 Ryan Francis Larkin. We explore how Ryan's death nearly a decade ago catalyzed Rob's life mission into Sleep Science and nervous system recovery. Rob breaks down the reality of Operator Syndrome—the "allostatic load" of blast exposure, chronic sleep deprivation, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) that plagues both elite military operators and civilian first responders. From why nature resets the human nervous system to how live predictive gaming brings donors into the "brotherhood," this episode is a tactical look at turning grief into systemic healing. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The 62-Mile Colorado Backcountry Challenge: An insider's look at the brutal terrain, alpine elevation, and escape-and-evasion mechanics from Montrose to Telluride. Understanding Operator Syndrome: Dr. Chris Frueh's concept of "allostatic load"—the accumulation of physical, neurological, and emotional stress in elite military personnel. The Sleep Science Connection: How chronic sleep deprivation directly accelerates TBI symptoms, PTSD, and suicidal ideation in veterans. The Legacy of SO1 Ryan Larkin: Remembering a second-generation Navy SEAL sniper and medic whose brain donation revolutionized blast-related TBI research. Nature as the Ultimate Reset: Why bringing veterans out of chaotic urban environments and into the wilderness eliminates acute nervous system stress. The SEAL Platoon Ethos: The unwritten rule of operational priority: Team gear first, buddy's gear second, personal gear last. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:01:03] Debriefing the 62-Mile Challenge: Rob Sweetman reflects on the brutal Colorado Backcountry course. Ryan Larkin Invitational Race [00:02:44] Why Half the Teams Dropped: Realities of wilderness foot trauma, limited water, and alpine elevation. Backcountry Adventure Race Survival [00:04:15] The City vs. Nature: How urban chaos overloads the human nervous system and why wilderness resets it. Resetting Nervous System Nature [00:05:05] Connecting Donors to the Platoon: Using live predictive tracking to bring supporters into the brotherhood. RLIAR Live GPS Tracking [00:07:43] Memories of Ryan Larkin: Rob recalls showing up to SEAL Team Seven as a 30-year-old "new guy." Navy SEAL SO1 Ryan Larkin [00:10:07] Defining Operator Syndrome: Allostatic load, blast exposure, TBI, and the laundry list of operator injuries. Dr Chris Frueh Operator Syndrome [00:12:26] The Echo of Ryan's Loss: How a mentor's suicide sparked Rob's decade-long commitment to sleep science. Veteran Suicide Prevention Research [00:14:48] The Standard of Personal Conviction: The character traits selected for in the SEAL Teams. Navy SEAL Character Traits [00:18:16] Team Gear First: The operational priority hierarchy that builds trust in high-stakes platoons. Navy SEAL Team Ethos About the Guest Rob Sweetman is a retired Navy SEAL operator, sleep scientist, and founder of 62Romeo and the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR). Following a distinguished career in Special Operations, Rob dedicated his life to researching sleep health, brain performance, and nervous system recovery for veterans, first responders, and high-performers. To learn more about the race, review live tracking, or support veteran scholarships, visit the official site at rliar.org . Closing Message & Call to Action "We're not robots." Rob Sweetman reminds us that even the toughest warriors carry an overbearing load. True strength isn't pretending the weight isn't there—it's having the courage to step out into nature, fix the baseline of your sleep, and lean into the brotherhood. Support the Mission: Fund a Veteran Scholarship: Visit rliar.org to donate directly to 501(c)(3) initiatives providing 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive scholarships for Veterans and First Responders. Explore the 2026 Event: Learn more about the upcoming June 12–14, 2026 race across the Colorado Backcountry from Montrose to Telluride at rliar.org . Fix Your Baseline: Audit your sleep hygiene tonight. Turn off the screens, step outside, and give your nervous system the recovery it earned. #RobSweetman #RyanLarkin #RLIAR2026 #OperatorSyndrome #SleepScience #NavySEAL #TraumaticBrainInjury #62Romeo #ColoradoBackcountry #VeteranHealth #AllostaticLoad #TwoPromisesPodcast #MentalHealthRecovery #TBIResearch

  7. Aug 3

    No Zero Days Team (Part 3): Hallucinations, 16-Pound Packs, and the "Desert Shuffle" – The RLIAR Final Debrief

    "You don't conquer the mountain—you conquer the next ten feet." In this final series of our 3-part debrief on the Two Promises Podcast, Brent wraps up his roundtable with the No Zero Days race team (Sam Piccolotti, Sean Pechon, Matthew Anderson, and Jon Habert) following their performance in the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR) in the Colorado Backcountry. The crew gets brutally honest about the extreme physiological breakdown caused by heat, dehydration, and heavy packs in the backcountry. Jon Habert shares how physical exhaustion led to "audible mirages" and hearing voices on the trail, while Sam Piccolotti recounts catching himself falling asleep on his feet during a brief rest stop. The team reflects on the "Desert Shuffle"—Sean Pechon's survival method of micro-landmarking from tree to tree—and how the race morphed from a competition into a single, unified community across all participating teams. In a special post-interview Debrief & Cocktails (DB&C) segment, host BD breaks down three crucial life lessons from 62 miles in the backcountry: why "ounces equal pounds" in both backpack weight and mental baggage, the danger of pride-driven dehydration, and how restoring sleep through RLIAR's 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive scholarships serves as the first domino in healing Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and PTSD for Veterans and First Responders. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights The Physiology of Extreme Fatigue: Understanding heat exhaustion, dehydration, and the psychological impact of sleep deprivation during high-altitude endurance events. Audible Mirages on the Trail: Jon Habert and Sam Piccolotti candidly discuss auditory hallucinations and mental fatigue when pushing past normal human limits. The "Desert Shuffle" & Micro-Landmarking: Tactical mindset strategies for breaking down overwhelming 62-mile challenges into manageable 10-foot steps. Pack Weight Optimization: Why carrying a 35+ pound pack compromises agility, and key takeaways on ultra-light gear strategies for wilderness survival. The Community of "Misfit Toys": How solo racers and broken teams merged on Days 2 and 3 to support each other across the Telluride finish line. Sleep as the Catching Mit: Host BD and the team explore how 62Romeo SLEEP101 scholarships provide a safety net for veterans struggling with TBI and complex trauma. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:00:29] The Value of Shared Suffering: Transitioning from linear road races to multi-element backcountry endurance. Backcountry Adventure Racing [00:01:12] Team Dynamics Under Stress: Assessing communication and cohesion when pushing physical limits. Team Dynamics in Races [00:02:12] Managing In-Race Injuries: Sam's knee injury coming down the canyon ledge and the mental toll of physical breakdown. Managing Trail Injuries [00:03:38] Hydration Mistakes and Gear Lessons: Running out of water and the lesson of unboxing gear before race day. Wilderness Water Filtration [00:05:04] Facing a DNF (Did Not Finish): Processing the gut check of missing race cutoffs for the first time since 1986. Overcoming Race DNF [00:06:04] In Good Company: Recognizing the extreme difficulty of the terrain as Tier 1 operators and half the field withdraw. RLIAR Course Difficulty [00:07:53] The Salty 60-Year-Old Finisher: How Sean Pechon completed all three days and his high-volume weekly training regimen. Master Athlete Conditioning [00:09:30] "Put You Back in the Fight": Medical support on the trail and the dedication of Navy Corpsmen and Army Medics. Military Corpsman Trail Medicine [00:10:58] Carrying the Psychological Weight: Translating field suffering to overcoming TBI, PTSD, and complex life trauma. Psychological Resilience [00:13:07] More Than a T-Shirt: Why race purpose and lifelong relationships outweigh simply crossing a finish line. Purpose Driven Endurance [00:15:00] Coast-to-Coast Volunteer Support: The national turnout of support honoring Ryan Larkin and Rob Sweetman's mission. RLIAR Volunteer Network [00:16:35] Sleep as the First Domino: How RLIAR fundraising and 62Romeo SLEEP101 scholarships restore lives and families. Veteran TBI Sleep Recovery About the Guests The No Zero Days race team is an elite roster of athletes, veterans, and healthcare professionals based in the Rocky Mountains. Composed of Sam Piccolotti (Founder of No Zero Days), Sean Pechon (Retired Marine & Structural Engineer), Matthew Anderson (Air Force Special Operations Wing), and Jon Habert (Endurance Cyclist), the team represents the peak of longevity, discipline, and communal service. Learn more about their movement and secure gear at NoZeroDays.com . Closing Message & Call to Action "Ounces equal pounds. If a thought doesn't serve your mission, leave it on the side of the trail." Whether you're hauling 35 pounds up an alpine pass or carrying old grudges in your daily life, success requires shedding extra weight and locking into the next ten feet. Support the Pack & Follow the Mission: Support Veterans & First Responders: Head to the official event site at rliar.org to donate to the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race, support Team No Zero Days, and help fund 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive scholarships for TBI recovery. Follow the Event: Visit rliar.org to explore the live tactical map application, follow real-time GPS tracking during the June 12–14, 2026 race across the Colorado Backcountry (Montrose to Telluride), and learn how to get involved. Practice the Desert Shuffle: Feeling overwhelmed by a project or life challenge? Stop looking at the full 62 miles. Pick one micro-landmark, take action today, and keep moving forward. Grab the Field Manual: Check out Sam Piccolotti's new book The No Zero Days 10 Tenets at NoZeroDays.com to lock in your daily fitness and mental resilience habits. #RLIAR2026 #RyanLarkinInvitational #NoZeroDays #ColoradoBackcountry #DesertShuffle #62Romeo #SLEEP101 #TwoPromisesPodcast #TraumaticBrainInjury #MarineCorpsVeteran #AirForceSpecialOps #EnduranceMindset #DebriefAndCocktails #TellurideColorado #BeTheCatchersMitt #MicroLandmarking

  8. Jul 27

    No Zero Days Team (Part 2): Lessons from the Canyon – Injury, Gear Reality Checks, and the Power of the Crew

    "If your only focus is to finish, be careful—you might just end up with a t-shirt. If you aren't open and aware during the process, you miss the whole journey." In Part 2 of our 3-part debrief with the No Zero Days race team (Sam Piccolotti, Sean Pechon, Matthew Anderson, and Jon Habert), the crew offers an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at their experience during the Ryan Larkin Invitational Adventure Race (RLIAR) in the Colorado Backcountry. The team opens up about the brutal physical realities of navigating 62 miles of unforgiving alpine terrain from Montrose to Telluride. Founder Sam Piccolotti recounts sustaining a severe knee injury coming down a canyon ledge on Day 1, running out of water, and confronting his first DNF (Did Not Finish) since 1986. He shares the humbling lesson of carrying a unused LifeStraw in his pack and why missing race cutoffs was softened by the realization that five out of ten teams—including Tier 1 SEAL Team Six operators—were pushed to their absolute limits by the course. The conversation highlights 60-year-old team member Sean Pechon, who pushed past the team's cutoff to complete all three days of the race. We also explore the incredible impact of the event's volunteer network, the hands-on care of Navy Corpsmen and Army Medics patching feet at 4:00 AM, and how RLIAR's fundraising directly powers 62Romeo SLEEP101 scholarships to restore sleep for Veterans and First Responders struggling with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and PTSD. 🔍 Key Topics & SEO Insights Managing In-Race Trauma: The physical and mental cascade of dealing with a joint injury while descending into an isolated Colorado canyon. Gear Preparation vs. Field Reality: A crucial lesson on unboxing and testing survival gear (like water filtration) before entering the backcountry. The Psychology of a DNF: How high-performing master athletes process missing cutoffs, redefine success, and separate ego from purpose. The Salty 60-Year-Old Finisher: Sean Pechon's relentless weekly routine (15 miles running, 150 miles cycling) and what it took to complete all 3 days of the RLIAR course. Frontline Trail Medicine: The vital role Navy Corpsmen and Army Medics play in keeping racers operational under severe physical degradation. Sleep as the First Domino: Host BD and the team discuss how restoring REM sleep through 62Romeo programs breaks the cycle of TBI/PTSD rumination and heals entire family units. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:00:29] The Value of Shared Suffering: Transitioning from linear road races to multi-element backcountry endurance. Backcountry Adventure Racing [00:01:12] Team Dynamics Under Stress: Assessing communication and cohesion when pushing physical limits. Team Dynamics in Races [00:02:12] Managing In-Race Injuries: Sam's knee injury coming down the canyon ledge and the mental toll of physical breakdown. Managing Trail Injuries [00:03:38] Hydration Mistakes and Gear Lessons: Running out of water and the lesson of unboxing gear before race day. Wilderness Water Filtration [00:05:04] Facing a DNF (Did Not Finish): Processing the gut check of missing race cutoffs for the first time since 1986. Overcoming Race DNF [00:06:04] In Good Company: Recognizing the extreme difficulty of the terrain as Tier 1 operators and half the field withdraw. RLIAR Course Difficulty [00:07:53] The Salty 60-Year-Old Finisher: How Sean Pechon completed all three days and his high-volume weekly training regimen. Master Athlete Conditioning [00:09:30] "Put You Back in the Fight": Medical support on the trail and the dedication of Navy Corpsmen and Army Medics. Military Corpsman Trail Medicine [00:10:58] Carrying the Psychological Weight: Translating field suffering to overcoming TBI, PTSD, and complex life trauma. Psychological Resilience [00:13:07] More Than a T-Shirt: Why race purpose and lifelong relationships outweigh simply crossing a finish line. Purpose Driven Endurance [00:15:00] Coast-to-Coast Volunteer Support: The national turnout of support honoring Ryan Larkin and Rob Sweetman's mission. RLIAR Volunteer Network [00:16:35] Sleep as the First Domino: How RLIAR fundraising and 62Romeo SLEEP101 scholarships restore lives and families. Veteran TBI Sleep Recovery About the Team The No Zero Days race team is an elite roster of athletes, veterans, and healthcare professionals based in the Rocky Mountains. Composed of Sam Piccolotti (Founder of No Zero Days), Sean Pechon (Retired Marine & Structural Engineer), Matthew Anderson (Air Force Special Operations Wing), and Jon Habert (Endurance Cyclist), the team represents the peak of longevity, discipline, and communal service. Learn more about their movement and secure gear at NoZeroDays.com . Closing Message & Call to Action "If you go down, who gets you out of here?" The backcountry doesn't care about your resume, but it will show you who your brothers are. The men of No Zero Days proved that when physical bodies break down, true strength is found in shared purpose and community. Support the Pack & Follow the Mission: Donate directly to the Cause: Head over to the official race platform at rliar.org to back Team No Zero Days, power their ongoing fundraising goals, and directly support 501(c)(3) initiatives like the 62Romeo SLEEP101 intensive recovery scholarships for Veterans and First Responders. Track the Race & Mission: Visit rliar.org to review course details, check race leaderboards, and learn more about how the annual June event in the Colorado Backcountry supports Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) research and recovery. Test Your Gear: Don't wait until you're out of water in a canyon to read the instructions. Take 15 minutes today to audit your preparation, your habits, and your mindset. Share the Episode: Send this episode to a runner, veteran, or friend who needs perspective on overcoming setbacks and turning a DNF into a victory of character. #RLIAR2026 #RyanLarkinInvitational #NoZeroDays #AdventureRacing #ColoradoBackcountry #LeadvilleColorado #ImogenePass #MasterAthletes #MarineCorpsVeteran #AirForceSpecialOps #EnduranceTraining #TraumaticBrainInjury #TwoPromisesPodcast #62Romeo #SLEEP101 #NavyCorpsman #OvercomingDNF

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About

When you're out for a night with the BD, it's bound to be an adventure. Along the way you'll likely encounter myths, moonshiners, and mad mojo. With experiences like these, where deep roots are formed and you never know where the adventure may lead next, it's bound to lead to deep connections and lots of laughter. Having been overseas and out of touch with the USA for the last 14 years, a lot has changed. With your help, BD can better understand a world that was once familiar but is now somewhat foreign, his home… America. So what do you have to lose? Join us on the journey by simply entering your email below for access to the weirdness, wild times, bourbon and all sorts of other curious shenanigans. This is our story. If you want to know more about what it is going to be like, well we can only make you Two Promises.

Information

  • Creator
    BD
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Two-Promises 2020
  • Show Website
    The Two-Promises Podcast