Vets And Badges

Robert Asencio
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Vets And Badges delivers real stories of service, sacrifice, and triumph—from the battlefield to the badge. Join host Robert Asencio (Army vet/retired Police Captain) and featured co-host/Neuroscientist Dr. Pamela Seraphine as they bridge the gap between heroism and healing. Explore raw interviews with veterans and first responders alongside expert insights into the science of PTSD and trauma recovery. Discover the truth behind the uniform and the blueprint for resilience. New episodes weekly. Real Stories. Real Heroes. Real Science. Visit: https://www.vetsandbadges.com

  1. 4d ago

    'I Would Rather Die Than Quit": A Green Beret’s Code for Success

    Would Rather Die Than Quit: A 56 green beret ‘s Code for Success | MAJ Dan Kronz, 7th Group. What keeps a green beret driving forward when his body and mind are broken? MAJ Daniel “Dan” Kronz, U.S. Army special forces (7th Special Forces Group), shares his veteran stories from 9/11 inspiration to combat and back — and the code that refused to let him quit. Inspired at 13 by September 11th, Dan earned his Green Beret through the Q-Course and Ranger School — including getting hit by 30-40 hornets and refusing to quit. He deployed with the 10th Mountain Division and army special forces to South America on counter-narco missions and to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, one of the war’s highest-casualty zones. Dan breaks down resilience under fire, the reality of TBI, 60 ptsd veteran struggles, and tbi recovery — and how that lived experience fuels his mission now with Sharp Performance: coaching veterans and first responders on wellness, self-regulation, and first responder mental health. Real Stories. Real Heroes. Real Science. This is Vets and Badges. Learn more: Sharp Performance: https://www.sharpperformance.com/ Subscribe for weekly veteran stories + the science of leadership under pressure. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Cold Open: Rather Die Than Quit 01:37 Inspired by 9/11 at 13 02:58 Q-Course: Hardest Challenge to Become green beret 03:22 Ranger School: Hornets Couldn’t Make Him Quit 08:21 First Deployment: 10th Mountain Division 08:47 Earning His Place in 7th Group 10:21 South America Counter-Narco Ops 14:03 Helmand Province: Leading in Combat 18:45 Afghanistan Withdrawal: Purpose Tested 20:40 TBI, Injury and the Road to Recovery 23:32 Sharp Performance: Coaching Veterans & First Responders 25:58 Suicide Prevention and Lived Experience 🎙️ Podcast Description Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

  2. Sep 11

    Thought it was a bomb: Pentagon attack survivor story #911 #survivor #history

    US Army LTC. Mike Hogan (Ret) describes what it was like inside the Pentagon on 9/11 after American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building. WATCH THE REST OF THE CONVERSATION: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAVdyrW7Q7o Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

  3. Sep 10

    Battle of Ramadi: What Really Happened During the Iraq War?

    Experience the raw reality of the Battle of Ramadi through the eyes of US Army MAJ Miguel N. Sanata (Ret) depicted in his newly released bool titled “Unheard Voices The Battle For Ramadi – A Soldier’s Memoir From Combat Outpost Falcon. For those studying Iraq war history, this conversation provides a firsthand look at the high-stakes decisions made on the ground alongside company leadership. Hearing these combat veteran stories offers crucial perspective on the pressure of active duty engagements. We focus on the tactical environment and the human element of service, providing a clear picture of what transpired during this critical deployment. Subscribe for veteran experience breakdowns and comment below on which historical engagements you want us to cover next. Chapters: 00:00 – The Firefight in Missoula Talafa 03:28 – Leadership and Camaraderie in Combat 07:40 – The Importance of Writing a Memoir 09:47 – The Role of the Infantry in Combat 17:41 – Mechanized Infantry and Tactical Advantages 22:51 – The Symbiotic Relationship in Combat 24:44 – Inside the Infantry Experience 28:34 – The Burden of Leadership 29:57 – Individual Experiences in Combat 32:21 – The Importance of Soldier Welfare 36:01 – Technology’s Role in Modern Warfare 40:03 – Filling the Gaps in Military History 4 1:05 -A Soldier’s Memoir: Unheard Voices For more about “Unheard Voices The Battle For Ramadi – A Soldier’s Memoir From Combat Outpost Falcon” VISIT: https://www.MiguelNSantana.com Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING – a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB – 2026

  4. Aug 22

    "Who Am I When the Uniform Comes Off?" - Delta Force Operator

    Hear Sergeant Major Tamir Ransom discuss the realities of veteran transition. Learn how to manage the shift from service to civilian life. Sergeant Major Tamir Ransom shares his personal journey after retiring as an EOD specialist. This conversation covers the mental hurdles of leaving the military and the process of redefining personal identity outside of uniform. For those currently navigating military retirement or supporting someone who is, Ransom provides honest perspective on confronting buried emotions and finding purpose after a long career in service. As the first African American in Special Forces operational detachments, Ransom offers a unique viewpoint on service and leadership. He explains how his historic role shaped his outlook on his current work in veteran support. Whether you are facing your own veteran transition or simply interested in the life of a decorated veteran, this interview offers clear takeaways on resilience. Subscribe for weekly veteran experience breakdowns and comment below on which transition topic you want us to cover next. Chapters: 00:00 - The Journey of Identity After Service 02:48 - EOD Training and Mindset 06:08 - Confronting Fear and Radical Acceptance 08:46 - Coping Mechanisms and Mental Resilience 12:13 - Experiences in EOD School and Deployments 15:02 - Understanding the Enemy and Post-Blast Analysis 17:58 - Life in Afghanistan and Syria 21:02 - The Aftermath of War and Mental Health 24:01 - Advice for Fellow Veterans Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ Info@VetsAndBadges.com www.VetsAndBadges.com AB - 2026

  5. Aug 1

    Delta Force Operator on PTSD: Veterans Aren’t Broken

    He survived over 40 concussions, failed Special Forces selection twice, and still made it into Delta Force. In this episode, SGM Taamir Ransome sits down with Robert Asencio to unpack what the military doesn’t prepare you for: the war that starts after the uniform comes off. From growing up on the streets of Newark to leading operators in combat, Ransome breaks down moral injury, the stigma that keeps veterans and first responders silent, and why he believes veterans “aren’t broken — we’re changed.” This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about trust, trauma, and what real reintegration actually requires. Ransome is the author of “Mind of a Soldier: 34 Laws for the War After the War,” written to help veterans, first responders, and the employers and families around them understand what reintegration really looks like. – https://www.amazon.com/Mind-Soldier-Laws-War-After/dp/B0GSRYS5B5 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Finding Purpose in Protecting Others 00:14 What Is Moral Injury? (Not What Clinicians Think) 01:45 Balancing the Scales: Mentoring the Next Generation 02:09 The Hero-or-Villain Myth: How America Misunderstands Veterans 04:34 Why Cops & Soldiers Hide Their Struggles 05:04 Peer Support vs. Traditional Therapy — Why Trust Matters 07:39 Officer vs. NCO: Who’s Really the Better Leader? 09:29 The “Ambush” Effect: Why Asking for Help Feels Like a Trap 11:09 From Newark Streets to the Military: His Origin Story 17:20 Hardwired for Success: How Structure Saved His Life 19:40 Failing Selection, Reclassifying, and Earning His Spot 22:03 An Intimate Relationship With Death 27:39 40+ Concussions: Living With the Physical Toll 29:58 Mindset, Resilience, and Finding Grace 32:01 Finding Humor in Combat 34:22 Inside “Mind of a Soldier”: Why He Wrote the Book 35:35 “We’re Not Broken, We’re Changed” — The Truth About Reintegration 37:50 Closing Thoughts Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING – a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ Info@VetsAndBadges.com www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

  6. Aug 1

    The IRS Can't Touch Them: A Veteran IRS Attorney Exposes

    Get an inside look at tax secrets for the ultra-wealthy. Learn how high net worth tax planning works for celebrities and sports owners. Earle Ford shares his journey - from US Army veteran to state prosecutor to IRS Attorney assigned to the IRS Estate and Gift Trust Program. Working in tax at the highest level involves far more than just filling out forms. This perspective covers the reality of handling assets for movie stars, sports team owners, and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. If you have ever considered a career in high net worth tax or wondered how top-tier firms manage the portfolios of the world's most famous people, this breakdown provides the necessary context. We discuss the unique pressures and environments, such as meeting clients near Mar-a-Lago, that come with billionaire accounting. You will understand how celebrity tax returns differ from standard filings and why the attention to detail required in this field is unmatched. This is an honest look at the professional demands of wealth management career paths. Subscribe for weekly career breakdowns, and comment which industry role you want to hear about next Chapters: 00:00 - Exploring the World of High Net Worth Taxation 02:58 - The Role of the IRS in Estate and Gift Tax 05:59 - Challenges in Tax Enforcement for the Wealthy 09:05 - From Law School to IRS: A Personal Journey 12:07 - Military Service and Its Impact on Career Choices 14:59 - Values of Service and Commitment to Country Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ Info@VetsAndBadges.com www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

  7. Jul 3

    The Hidden TBI Epidemic Destroying Veterans and First Responders

    Are you treating traumatic brain injury as a mental health issue? Learn why brain imaging is critical for veterans and first responders and HBOT is proving to make a life saving difference. Many professionals face high-risk environments that can cause lasting physical damage. This discussion clarifies why the brain is often misdiagnosed when symptoms appear. We examine the physiological reality of brain health, specifically how the organ's fragile consistency makes it susceptible to injury during service-related activities. Understanding the physical nature of traumatic brain injury changes how we approach recovery. By prioritizing proper brain imaging before assuming a mental health diagnosis, veterans and first responders can better advocate for their long-term wellness. Knowing the difference between psychological and physical trauma is the first step toward effective care. Definition of HBOT: Hyperbarric Chamber Oxygen Therapy Chapters: 00:00 - Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries in Veterans 03:07 - The Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy 06:09 -The Impact of Brain Imaging on Treatment 08:50 - Personal Stories and Experiences with TBI 12:10 - Addressing Mental Health and Behavioral Issues 15:10 - The Need for Awareness and Diagnosis 18:06 - The Journey of Healing and Hope 21:04 - The Future of Treatment and Support Takeaways: -The brain is fragile and can be injured easily. -Many veterans are misdiagnosed with mental health issues instead of TBIs. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can aid in brain healing. -Brain imaging is crucial for understanding TBIs. -Veterans often feel hopeless due to lack of diagnosis. -There is a significant reduction in suicidal thoughts after treatment. -The 22 Project aims to reduce veteran suicides through effective treatment. -Personal experiences can shape understanding and empathy in treatment. -Community support is vital for veterans' recovery. -Awareness and education about TBIs are essential for better outcomes. The 22 Project: https://support22project.org/ About Ashley Williams, LCSW: https://www.ashleywilliamslcsw.com/ About Vets And Badges Host: Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience. Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ Info@VetsAndBadges.com www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

  8. Jun 3

    Lost Both Legs. Gained 2 World Records. Never Gave Up

    What does it take to forge an elite warrior — and what does neuroscience reveal about that transformation? U.S. Army Special Forces CPT Benjamin Harrow joins Robert Asencio and Dr. Pamela Seraphine for a conversation that goes beyond the battlefield. Dr. Pamela Seraphine decodes the neuroscience behind CPT Harrow's evolution of excellence — from the mental crucible of Special Forces selection to the leadership wiring built under pressure.This is more than a veteran's story. It's a master class in resilience, identity, and the science of what the human brain does under extraordinary stress. 🧠 In This Episode - How Special Forces training rewires the brain for sustained high performance - The neuroscience of identity: Why CPT Harrow's evolution mirrors what Dr. - Seraphine calls "the warrior transformation arc" - What sacrifice, dedication, and service actually look like at the cellular level - The leadership lessons that don't show up in a military manual ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 From Hockey to Heroism 02:48 The Journey of a Green Beret 06:06 Overcoming Adversity and Identity 08:52 The Evolution of Excellence 11:51 The Power of Mindset and Resilience 14:47 Building a New Life After Injury 18:04 The Importance of Support Systems 21:00 Patient Zero: A Journey of Recovery 23:55 The Role of Spirituality in Healing 27:00 Teaching the Next Generation 30:10 The Impact of Love and Family 32:49 Conclusion and Reflections About Ben’s military service: How The US Special Forces Actually Work | Authorized Account | Insider https://youtu.be/UNbuDKQTgRg?si=JRW19cFci2lm6BEH CPT Ben Harrow Final Cut #1million https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYBAorEedlU&t=11s 👥 About Your Hosts: Robert Asencio — Retired Police Captain, Army Veteran, Former Florida State Representative Dr. Pamela Seraphine — Neuroscientist & Science Officer, decoding the "why" behind the story Follow us on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, IHEART @VetsAndBadges Real Heroes. Real Science.#specialforces #GreenBeret #VeteranPodcast #CPTBenHarrow #MilitaryMindset #Neuroscience #VetsAndBadges #ArmyVeteran #EliteSoldier #ResilienceUnderFire 🔥 Core: special forces, green beret, army special forces, veteran podcast, military mindset 🎯 Growth: special forces mindset, neuroscience of leadership, elite soldier, military leadership, army veteran story📈 Long-tail: CPT Ben Harrow, evolution of excellence, special forces training, veteran resilience, Dr Pamela Seraphine, Vets and Badges, combat veteran interview, PTSD neuroscience, warrior transformation Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders. For more visit: https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/ Info@VetsAndBadges.com www.VetsAndBadges.com VAB - 2026

See All (104)

Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Vets And Badges delivers real stories of service, sacrifice, and triumph—from the battlefield to the badge. Join host Robert Asencio (Army vet/retired Police Captain) and featured co-host/Neuroscientist Dr. Pamela Seraphine as they bridge the gap between heroism and healing. Explore raw interviews with veterans and first responders alongside expert insights into the science of PTSD and trauma recovery. Discover the truth behind the uniform and the blueprint for resilience. New episodes weekly. Real Stories. Real Heroes. Real Science. Visit: https://www.vetsandbadges.com

Information

  • Creator
    Robert Asencio
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Robert Asencio
  • Show Website
    Vets And Badges