The MisFitNation

Richard LaMonica
  • 5.0 (48)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

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

    22 Years in the Navy to Building Veteran Culture | Matt Johnson’s Leadership Journey

    What happens when the mission doesn’t end with retirement from the military? On this episode of The MisFitNation Show, host Rich LaMonica sits down with US Navy Veteran Matt Johnson, a retired Senior Chief Petty Officer who served 22.5 years in the United States Navy. Matt’s military journey began as a Seabee, one of the Navy’s legendary construction battalions known for building critical infrastructure in some of the toughest environments around the world. Over the course of his career, Matt grew into leadership roles and eventually finished his service as a Navy recruiter, helping guide the next generation of sailors into service. But like many veterans, the real question came after the uniform came off: What’s the next mission? Today Matt is channeling his leadership, discipline, and passion for service into multiple ventures. He is the owner of GOTUR6IX CULTURE LLC, an apparel company that creates original designs, outfits businesses, and partners with nonprofits to help raise funds for causes that matter. He also works alongside his wife as she launches her art business and continues serving the veteran community as co-host of the Triple Threat Vets Podcast, where real conversations about life after service take center stage. This conversation dives into leadership, entrepreneurship, family, culture, and building a mission-driven life after the military. Matt’s journey growing up in a military family Life as a Seabee and Navy leader The transition from military service to civilian life Building a mission-driven business Supporting nonprofits and the veteran community The importance of culture, purpose, and family 🌐 Websitehttps://www.sameflagsameoath.com 👕 GOTUR6IX CULTURE Apparel 🎙 Triple Threat Vets Podcast 🎥 Subscribe on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@The_MisFitNation 🔥 Join The Forge Leadership Communityhttps://tinyurl.com/4p7kx64z Veterans often ask themselves one question after leaving the military: “What’s my next mission?” Drop a comment below and tell us: 👉 What mission are YOU building in your life right now? 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📢 Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration. 🎙️ In This Episode 🔗 Connect with Matt Johnson 🔥 Follow The MisFitNation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 49m

  2. 6D AGO

    Marine Pilot Hit Rock Bottom… Then Built a Path to Recovery | Garret Biss

    What happens when the mission ends… but the battle inside your mind begins? On this episode of The ToosDay Crüe, hosts Jake Holland and Stephen LaMonica sit down with U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Garret Biss—a retired Marine Corps pilot, TEDx speaker, recovery coach, and founder of ValiantPath™. After retiring from the Marine Corps in 2015, Garret faced a struggle many veterans quietly battle: anxiety, depression, and the loss of identity after service. Like many others, he turned to alcohol to cope. But when suicidal thoughts began to take hold, Garret realized something had to change. Instead of relying solely on traditional recovery programs, Garret’s transformation came through mentorship, rediscovering self-worth, and focusing on the strengths already inside him. That journey not only helped him overcome addiction—it gave him a new mission: helping other veterans reclaim their lives. Today Garret works with veterans through his program ValiantPath™, blending coaching, emotional processing, and evidence-based recovery tools rooted in positive psychology and human flourishing. Garret has also: • Co-founded an addiction recovery residence in North Carolina • Delivered a powerful TEDx talk – Unspoken Trauma • Become an award-winning author and speaker • Served as a pilot for the Civil Air Patrol • Leads a global water charity One Million Goal, Inc. This conversation dives deep into identity, recovery, purpose, and what it truly means to rebuild your life after service. The hidden struggles many veterans face after leaving the military Garret’s battle with alcohol, depression, and suicidal ideation The turning point that changed his life Why mentorship played a critical role in recovery Building ValiantPath™ to help veterans heal Finding purpose again after losing identity 🌐 Websitehttps://garretbiss.com/ 🎤 TEDx Talk – Unspoken Traumahttps://UnspokenTrauma.vet 🎥 Watch all episodeshttps://www.youtube.com/@The_MisFitNation Hosted by: 🇺🇸 Jake Holland – US Army Veteran 🎙 Stephen LaMonica – Business Leader & Veteran Advocate Many veterans struggle in silence. If Garret’s story resonated with you, drop a comment below: 👉 What helped YOU rediscover purpose during a hard season? 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📢 Share this episode with someone who needs it. 🎙️ In This Episode🔗 Connect with Garret Biss🔥 Follow The ToosDay Crüe💬 CALL TO ACTION Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 22m

  3. APR 21

    From PTSD to the Racetrack | Army Veteran Tia May Found Healing at 120 MPH

    Some battles follow you long after you leave the military. On this episode of The ToosDay Crüe, hosts Jake Holland and Stephen LaMonica sit down with US Army Veteran Tia May, a telecommunications systems operator who joined the Army in 2001 and faced challenges that pushed her mental health to the edge. During her time in service, Tia experienced disrespect from fellow soldiers and constant body size shaming. The emotional toll built up over time, leading her to turn to alcohol to cope. Nightmares, anxiety, and the weight of unresolved trauma eventually brought her close to a breaking point. But her story didn’t end there. Tia found an unexpected path toward healing—motorsports. What started as an outlet became a lifeline. Getting behind the wheel gave her focus, adrenaline, and a sense of control that helped quiet the chaos she was battling internally. Now, Tia is using motorsports as a platform for mental health advocacy, helping raise awareness and encouraging veterans to find their own paths toward healing. Her mission is simple but powerful: get veterans out on the track, open the conversation about mental health, and prove that recovery is possible. Life in the Army as a telecommunications operator The mental health challenges many soldiers face but rarely talk about Coping with trauma, nightmares, and alcohol The breaking point that forced change How motorsports became therapy Using racing to help other veterans find healing 📱 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/Crazycarchik 🎥 Watch all episodeshttps://www.youtube.com/@The_MisFitNation 🎙️ Hosted by US Army Veteran Jake Holland Business Leader Stephen LaMonica If Tia’s story resonates with you, drop a comment below: 👉 What activity helps YOU clear your mind and stay grounded? And if you know a veteran who might need this conversation—share this episode with them. 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📢 Share the mission 🎙️ In This Episode🔗 Follow Tia May🔥 Follow The ToosDay Crüe💬 CALL TO ACTION Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 12m

  4. APR 16

    From Warzones to Writing Thrillers | US Army Veteran Dean Davidson on Survival, Leadership & “The Amir”

    What does it take to survive warzones, near-death experiences, and come back with a story powerful enough to inspire others? On this episode of The MisFitNation Show, host Rich LaMonica sits down with US Army Veteran Dean Davidson—author, adventurer, and leader forged through some of the most dangerous environments on earth. Dean spent nearly 15 years supporting Department of Defense operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, working alongside special operations forces and mentoring Afghan Commandos. His journey includes surviving mortar attacks, a chlorine gas SVBIED attack, and a life-altering pursuit by insurgents that resulted in severe spinal injuries. Now, he channels those real-world experiences into gripping military thriller fiction, including his debut novel “The Amir”, with his upcoming series Code Name CHAOS on the way. 🔥 In this episode, we dive into: Leadership lessons from combat zones Resilience after trauma and injury The mindset required to operate in chaos Turning real-life experiences into powerful storytelling What civilians can learn from military leadership Dean’s story is not just about survival—it’s about transformation, purpose, and continuing the mission in a new way. 🌐 Website: https://www.deandavidson-author.com 🎯 The Forge (Exclusive Content & Community): https://tinyurl.com/4p7kx64z 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMisFitNation 📱 Follow us on all social platforms: @TheMisFitNation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  5. APR 14

    Noah May: Turning Mental Health Struggles Into a Voice of Hope

    On this powerful episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes Noah May — a podcaster, writer, and mental health advocate who turned years of depression, anxiety, and self-doubt into a mission to help others feel less alone. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in journalism, Noah’s journey hasn’t been easy. From feeling like an outcast to battling suicidal thoughts at a young age, he knows firsthand how heavy life can feel when mental health struggles go unseen and unheard. Today, Noah hosts three podcasts, using his voice to create honest conversations around mental health, self-worth, and healing. In this episode, he opens up about: Living with depression and anxiety from a young age Nearly reaching a breaking point — and what stopped him Finding purpose through writing and podcasting Why vulnerability is strength, not weakness How sharing your story can save lives This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt invisible, not good enough, or afraid to speak up. 🎧 Learn more about Noah and his podcasts: https://noahspodcasts.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 min

  6. APR 10

    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

  7. APR 9

    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

  8. APR 7

    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
See All (640)

5
out of 5
48 Ratings

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
    640
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Richard LaMonica
  • Show Website
    The MisFitNation