RealTOC Podcast with Cameron Hardin

RealTOC

RealTOC: The Tactical Operations Center for Life In and After Service RealTOC is a veteran-led show built for the next generation of service members and veterans. We bring accomplished veterans together for honest conversations about career, money, family, identity, and life after the uniform. If you’re active duty, transitioning out, or early in civilian life wondering, “Am I doing this right?” — this channel is for you.

  1. 4d ago

    Restoring Boots and Vietnam Memories with Gary Mandigo | Ep. 14

    Refurbishing Cowboy Boots, Vietnam Era Service & Life Lessons with Gary Mandigo In this compelling episode, host Cameron Hardin sits down with Gary Mandigo to dive into his unique world of refurbishing vintage cowboy boots. Gary walks us through his meticulous process, from sourcing unique materials online and sanitizing them in direct sunlight to applying creative, custom touches like gold-plated bottoms and artistic leather dyes for his "Gary Wayne Studio" brand. Beyond the workshop, Gary shares powerful, intimate stories from his life. He recounts his journey into the Air Force in 1972 to avoid the draft during the Vietnam era, reflections on military camaraderie, and his experiences working near notable figures like General Risner. Gary also opens up about his personal struggles, including memory challenges and past relationships, offering profound wisdom on the importance of human connection in a digital age. He challenges younger generations to step away from screens, prioritize genuine conversation, and find purpose through faith and community. This conversation is a fascinating blend of practical craftsmanship, raw history, and deep philosophical insights. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠RealTOC.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bIczd7⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6⁠⁠⁠⁠ Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan):⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0⁠⁠⁠⁠ Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH⁠⁠⁠⁠ Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4cY013P⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30):⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0⁠⁠⁠⁠ 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30):⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #CowboyBoots #MilitaryHistory #VeteranStories

    1h 17m

  2. May 28

    How to Build Wealth After the Military | Ep. 13

    In this powerful episode of RealTOC, host Cameron Hardin sits down with Chad Armstrong for an unfiltered look at his remarkable life journey. From being a bullied teenager who turned to kickboxing for survival, to navigating the complexities of military service, contracting in Iraq, and training Ugandan forces, Chad’s story is one of profound resilience. Beyond the combat and training, Chad shares the harsh reality of transitioning from the military to civilian life, the struggles of the National Guard, and his experience dealing with abandonment and mental health challenges after 15 years of service. Now, as a dedicated financial advisor and founder of ACE Veteran Consulting, Chad is on a mission to fill the gaps he experienced himself. He provides invaluable insights into VA claims, tax benefits, and the importance of advocating for veteran well-being. Whether you’re a veteran, active duty, or someone overcoming your own obstacles, Chad’s story of turning adversity into purpose is an inspiration. Tune in for lessons on leadership, resilience, and finding your identity after service. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠RealTOC.com⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Chad Armstrong: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aceveteranconsulting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadjarmstrong/ Website: https://aceveteranconsulting.com/ Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bIczd7⁠⁠⁠ Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6⁠⁠⁠ Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan):⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0⁠⁠⁠ Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH⁠⁠⁠ Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4cY013P⁠⁠⁠ Special thanks to Full Throttle Fitness https://fullthrottlemma.com/ Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30):⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0⁠⁠⁠ 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30):⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #ResilienceJourney

    1h 19m

  3. May 21

    Stroke Survivor to Team USA: Jamie’s Incredible Adaptive Golf Journey | RealTOC Ep. 12

    In this episode, host Cameron Hardin sits down with Jamie Scrubas, a U.S. Navy veteran whose life changed in an instant when he suffered a massive stroke while playing golf. Jamie takes us through the harrowing moments of losing his mobility, the grueling days of intensive rehab at the Shepherd Center, and the stubborn determination that fueled his refusal to accept a "never walk again" prognosis. Jamie’s story isn't just about survival; it’s about a profound rehabilitation of the soul. From serving 26 years in the Navy and Navy Reserves to battling the pressures of recruiting duty, he opens up about the lifestyle hurdles that led to his health crisis and the radical changes he made to reclaim his life. Today, Jamie is back on the green, not just as a player, but as a coach for visually impaired golfers and children on the spectrum. We wrap up with his most exciting chapter yet: representing the USA in the Cairns Cup, the adaptive golf version of the Ryder Cup. Jamie’s message is clear: you are exactly where you are supposed to be, and there is always a way forward. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc Website: RealTOC.com Disability Golf: www.TheCairnsCup.com Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: https://bit.ly/4bIczd7 Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates: https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6 Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan): https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0 Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save: https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans: https://bit.ly/4cY013P Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30): https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30): https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #AdaptiveGolf #StrokeRecovery #VeteranStories

    1h 14m

  4. May 14

    Josh Carson: From Navy Service to Winery Owner | Ep. 11

    What happens when a Navy Avionics Technician decides to trade helicopter maintenance for winemaking? Meet Joshua Carson, the founder of Broken Anchor Winery in Acworth, Georgia. In this episode, host Cameron Hardin joins Josh as he takes us behind the scenes of his 12-year journey from hobbyist to professional vintner, cashing out his 401k to build a community hub that is anything but a traditional "stuffy" winery. Josh breaks down his unique winemaking philosophy, using minimal oak to let the Georgia grapes shine, and shares the hilarious (and slightly chaotic) reality of running a small-batch winery, from hand-corking bottles when the pneumatic machine fails to the story behind their famous "Unicorn Tears" label. We also dive into his life in the Navy, from the dangerous flight decks of the USS Truman to the monotony of deployment care packages. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a veteran, or an aspiring entrepreneur, Josh’s story of grit, community support, and "the Bud Light of wine" is proof that you can build something incredible right in your own backyard. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠RealTOC.com⁠⁠ Connect with Josh: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokenanchorwinery/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBrokenAnchor1 Website: https://brokenanchorwine.com/ Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bIczd7⁠⁠ Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6⁠⁠ Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan):⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0⁠⁠ Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH⁠⁠ Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4cY013P⁠⁠ Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30):⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0⁠⁠ 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30):⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #VeteranOwned #VeteranStories #USNavy

    1h 15m

  5. May 7

    From Marine to Mindset Coach: Andy Robinson's Real Story | Ep. 10

    Join host Cameron Hardin as he uncovers Andy Robinson's journey from a Marine Corps veteran to a world-class mindset coach, which is a masterclass in resilience and the power of human will. In this episode, Andy shares his incredible story, from serving two tours in Iraq and surviving a life-altering Humvee explosion to rebuilding his life as a successful entrepreneur and coach. After sustaining severe injuries, including a broken neck and legs, Andy faced a pivotal choice: succumb to his limitations or design a new, fulfilling future. He chose the latter, moving across the country to San Diego and later Georgia, transitioning from finance into high-impact mindset coaching. Today, he helps small business owners and realtors rewire their thinking to achieve their "next version" of themselves. This conversation dives deep into the "light bulb moment" that changed his trajectory and explores how he maintains an unwavering belief in a better version of life, regardless of circumstances. Whether you're feeling stuck or looking to level up, Andy's insights on desire-based decision-making and mental fortitude will provide the blueprint you need to move forward. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc⁠ Website: ⁠RealTOC.com⁠ Connect with Andy: Email: andy@lfgmind.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lfgmind Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lfgmind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedIn.com/lfgmind Website: https://www.lfgmind.com Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: ⁠https://bit.ly/4bIczd7⁠ Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates:⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6⁠ Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan):⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0⁠ Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save:⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH⁠ Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans:⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4cY013P⁠ Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30):⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0⁠ 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30):⁠ ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #MindsetCoach #VeteranStories #MarineCorps

    1h 19m

  6. May 1

    These Marines Left the Corps but Continue Serving

    Rally Point Grille isn’t just a place to grab a burger, it’s a "mission" and a "ministry" for those who served. In this episode, host Cameron Hardin sits down with owners Ralph and Carrie, two U.S. Marine Corps veterans who have turned their Woodstock restaurant into a living museum and a sanctuary for the veteran community. From the "Missing Heroes Table" displayed 365 days a year to the "Knights of the Round Table" group of Vietnam veterans who meet every Friday, Ralph and Carrie share the profound impact of creating a space where service members feel seen and understood. You'll hear the incredible story of two veterans who reunited after 50 years at the grill, and how Carrie broke barriers as one of the first female Marines to earn gold jump wings. Whether you’re a veteran looking for your "tribe" or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration on building a culture-first business, this conversation covers the heart of what it means to serve your country and your community, during and after service. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc Website: RealTOC.com Connect with Rally Point Grille/Semper Fi Bar: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RPGWoodstock Instagram: https://instagram.com/SemperFiBar15 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rallypointgrille Website: https://woodstock.rallypointgrille.com Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: https://bit.ly/4bIczd7 Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates: https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6 Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan): https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0 Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save: https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans: https://bit.ly/4cY013P Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30): https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30): https://bit.ly/3PglBqe

    1h 18m

  7. Apr 23

    Anthony Abbott: From Combat to Family Life | RealTOC Ep. 8

    In today's episode of RealTOC, host Camerin Harden sits down with Anthony Abbott, known to many as Gunny, to talk about his fascinating and deeply personal journey. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Gunny joined the Marine Corps at 19, dedicating 21 years of service to his country. From infantry roles and challenging recruiting duty toprestigious assignments at the United States Embassy, Gunny shares the stories behind his storied career. He provides a candid look at the adjustments of military life, from personal relationships to parenting two daughters while moving around the globe, from Japan to Syria. Hear about Gunny's transitions, changing MilitaryOccupational Specialties (MOSs), and the mentorship that shaped him. He also gives us a glimpse into his "Marine room," where he keeps prized possessions like his KA-BAR. Most importantly, we celebrate Gunny's achievements, whichinclude being gifted one of the most interesting awards of his career: a quilt of valor. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc Website: RealTOC.com   Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest:https://bit.ly/4bIczd7   Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates:https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6 Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan):https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0 Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save:https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans:https://bit.ly/4cY013P   Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30):https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30):https://bit.ly/3PglBqe   #MarineCorps #VeteranStories #SemperFi

    1h 12m

  8. Apr 19

    Jason Quinn: Marine Corps to Skateboards | RealTOC Ep. 7

    Cameron Hardin sits down with Jason Quinn, a retired Marine and the founder of Bunker Skateboards. Jason shares his powerful journey of service, faith, and resilience, starting with his "Shred Cancer" event at Veterans Skate Park. Inspired by the loss of his mother, Jason has partnered with Restoration Farm to raise funds for cancer research, turning personal grief into a mission for the community. Jason opens up about his challenging upbringing, his elite military career in Marine Recon, and the life-altering TBI he sustained during a double IED attack in Afghanistan. He discusses the concept of the "stone mask", the emotional armor developed for combat, and the difficult but necessary process of removing it to find healing through faith and family. Beyond the board, Jason highlights his work with Shepherd’s Men, advocating for veterans dealing with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. Whether he’s unveiling a "new era" for Bunker Skateboards or discussing the importance of "mind, body, and spirit," Jason’s story is a testament to surrendering control and finding purpose in the fight. Connect with RealTOC: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtocpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtocpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtocpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realtoc Website: RealTOC.com Connect with Jason Quinn: Website: https://bunkerskateboards.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bunkersk8co/ Nominate a veteran to be a RealTOC guest: https://bit.ly/4bIczd7 Find the Best Deals and Maximize Your Benefits: Veteran Auto Insurance Rates: https://bit.ly/4rCwuA6 Buy a Home with $0 Down (VA Loan): https://bit.ly/4bi5pO0 Compare Home Insurance Rates & Save: https://bit.ly/3PfSFyH Top Credit Cards & Perks for Veterans: https://bit.ly/4cY013P Support Veteran-Owned: 30% Off Black Rifle Coffee (Code: GET30): https://bit.ly/4sNxNx0 30% Off BRCC Subscriptions (Code: COFFEE30): https://bit.ly/3PglBqe #MarineCorps #TBI #VeteranStories

    1h 18m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

RealTOC: The Tactical Operations Center for Life In and After Service RealTOC is a veteran-led show built for the next generation of service members and veterans. We bring accomplished veterans together for honest conversations about career, money, family, identity, and life after the uniform. If you’re active duty, transitioning out, or early in civilian life wondering, “Am I doing this right?” — this channel is for you.

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