Fragout Podcast

Eric Toney Fond Du Lac County District Attorney and Attorney General Candidate for Wisconsin. Eric came on the podcast to talk about his passion about protecting our Law Enforcement and being the Top Cop for Wisconsin. We also talked about some current DNR Law regarding the Wolf hunt. Eric was very open to talk about so much.

Wisconsin State Senator Andre Jacque. Andre came on the podcast to talk about veteran issues, community issues, state finance, PTSD Bill, and his amazing recovery from COVID. He's a great person and really loves his community. This was a special podcast.

Scott Griffith- Government Relations Director for Paralyzed Veterans of America Wisconsin Chapter, Inc.. Retired Chief Warrant Officer 2.. served 25 years. Scott was stationed in Germany when the Berlin Wall came down. He was served in Desert Storm, in supporting roles during the GWOT. Scott has an incredible story and passion for what he does. I am glad to know him and call him a friend.

Brendan Schaub and Mark Harley came on the podcast today! 2 hours of learning more about the UFC, stand up comedy, content creation, and so much more. It was such an honor to meet 2 great podcasters at the top of their game and making an impact around the country and world. Check out Mark's YouTube channel Haters Will Say and his Instagram. They both have amazing content.

My new friend Ignacio "Nacho" Enriquez. Nacho is a Behavioral Health Officer for Appleton Police Department. He has served Appleton police department for almost 15 years as a patrol officer, SWAT Crisis Responder, School Resource Officer. He responds to active cross situations with the public and for officers in the department. He is full of empathy and a great listener. His story is mind boggling and it was amazing to meet and chat with him.

Jason Turner- 2 tours in Iraq and 1 in Afghanistan. Executive Director of Salute the Troops, Inc in Fond Du Lac, WI. We had a lot of fun on this Episode. Lots of laughs, serious conversations about the veteran community. Jason also shared their upcoming Veteran Entrepreneur program they are starting. This was a great podcast

Very Passionate podcast with Sam Rogers of Concerned Veterans for America - Wisconsin. We talked about politics and policies that hurt our country and veterans but they don't hold anyone accountable. Probably one of the most political episodes but still has a lot of important information.

We sat down with Tyler and Ryan from Extreme Customs and the Wheels For Warriors program and we tried to call 5 veterans, unfortunately we only got ahold of 2 on the phone but we went a surprised a local veteran at his job.

Jon Schnabl co-owner/founder of Lake Geneva Party Bus Company. He has lived in 13 countries, owned 4 houses, divorced, remarried, 3 prior business, lost it all in 2015, lived in a van 2016 for months. Built a massive empire now, and currently writing a book. We talked about so much more!! Very fun and entertaining podcast.

Brian Sikma- Afghanistan War Veteran and still actively serving in the Wisconsin Army Guard as a Company XO soon to be Company commander. Brian shared his unconventional path into the Army and what was the genesis of his enlistment and his time at State Officer Candidate school. Brian and I also talked about the Afghan withdrawl and how they affect him just 1 year after he left. This was a fun and really informative podcast.

Dean Johnson- Iraq war veteran and owner of The Tailgate Foodie. They make incredible spices designed for tailgating and outdoor lifestyle. Dean was a combat medic for about 8 years. He was was an ICU nurse for 5 years. His robust experience within the military, college, healthcare was incredible to listen to. We also share a huge passion for fine dinning and talked about our love for nice meals.

Anthony Anderson 2X Iraq war veteran and owner of Lit Beard Co. Anthony also walked from Milwaukee to California in 2013 with another veteran. The walk was 2700 miles over a course of 5 months. Anthony came on the podcast we talked in-depth about the walk, Iraq, transitioning, entrepreneurship, and so much. This one was so much fun. Please check out the documentary that was made "Almost Sunrise" and his beard oil company.

Ben VanHaren- Iraq war veteran, full time police officer was on the podcast. We talked in-depth about gun ownership, his tour in Iraq, transition, long range precision shooting, and we had a special drop in guest today. Jordan Leitsch. All 3 of us shoot precision rifles together. Ben is a phenomenal mentor of mine and helped me find my long range skills after 6 years. It was so great to host him and hear his stories and share a ton of laughs!

Appleton Police Department Chief Todd Thomas was on the podcast today! Almost 40 years of policing under his belt. Today we talked about some of the biggest changes in policing from the 80s to present. We talked about the importance of supporting our officers and making sure they have equal access to Mental Health services. The military/LEO communities are not separate but, tethered together. #disruptiveimpact #WisconsinVeteran #backtheblue

Lisa and Scott Rogers owners of Wisconsins Drink LLC, Wisconsin based company that puts veterans on the side of their Old Fashion cans. Name, rank, conflict/era. Scott is a proud Army Airborne veteran and Lisa and an incredible MIL/Vet supporter. They both shared a lot about how they created the company and their personal lives and struggles thay drives them to create something so amazing. It was a pleasure to meet them. Please check them out their old fashioned in a can are super amazing https://wisconsinsdrink.com

Cody Umentum came on the podcast today. Cody is on the newest season Deadliest Catch and worked on the Wizard. Cody had a phenomenal story about traveling the world and having incredible encounters with corrupt police officer, grizzly bears, Hiking in the Amazon, and so much more. Cody is from Denmark, WI.

My friend Ryan Off The Grid came back on the podcast after 2 years. Ryan "Buddha" is a Marine Corps Veteran/ Iraq War veteran. We caught up and share our excitement about upcoming hunts, events, our shared passion for hunting and outdoors but also watching others succeed. It's always fun to chat with Buddha about life and the things that surround/influence us.

Jay Retzer Owner of LedgeRock Distillery in Fond Du Lac, WI. Jay came on the podcast today to talk about being a fairly new distillery and all the grown pains that they've endured. Jay also talked about how they converted the distillery to make hand sanitizer during the lockdown period. Jay is an incredible farmer, entrepreneur, and community member.

Brian Seidl was on the podcast. Marine Corps Infantry Officer- 4 Combat deployments, and was Dakota Meyer's Company XO. Brian is a full time commercial Real estate Attorney. Brian grew up in Anchorage, Alaska. Brain and I talked about his story, experiences, and fellow veterans that aren't here anymore. This was a blended podcast about his story but also Memorial Day.

Tarra Gundrum Marine Corps Veteran. She was a Drill Instructor and the First Female MCMAP Instructor for the Far East Region. Tarra shared some very personal stories about her service, transitioning, and professional development. She is a phenomenal ambassador to our MIL/Vet Community. She also has a podcast called The Possible Project.

Co-Owner and President of HHA Sports, Inc. Chris Hamm was back on the podcast. We talked about the upcoming HHA USA Archery shoots that raise money for various grassroots veteran orgs and all chapters of the Honor Flights. Chris talked about his 3rd trip as a guardian on a recent honor flight. Chris has a massive heart for our MIL/Vet community and I call him my "Archery godfather".

Deedra Irwin 2022 Winter Olympian, National Guard service member, and Wisconsin Native. Deedra came on the podcast today to talk about going to the Olympics, her training, the media, her famous bowl of cake, and so much more! Deedra is an incredible athlete and ambassador to our MIL/Vet community. She shared her passion to encourage and empower young girls and other women to pursue their goals and dreams.

Katie Sweeney CEO of AIME Association of Independent Mortgage Experts and on the board of directors for VettedVa. Came on the podcast to talk about their advocacy and the VA Home Loan program and how they are dedicated to educate realtors, lenders, and the community. The VA Home loan is the best program out there but theres a lot of misconceptions and discrimination towards it. This is a very educational and powerful podcast.

Jesse Cuff- Afghanistan War veteran and Waupaca County Veteran Service Officer came back on for his 3rd podcast with me. We talked about pretty much everything under the Sun. politics, policing, COVID, veterans, etc.

Ashley Smits Air Force Veteran and Founder of the Manitowoc County Veterans facebook group which is doing amazing things. Ashley shared her brutally honest opinion about being a female service member and being a single mom on Active duty in Germany. Ashley served 8 years and did a 6 month CONUS mission with US Centcom. She shared alot very personal stories and experiences with the hope to encourage fellow women veterans.

Dale Kooyenga Wisconsin State Senator and actively serving officer in Army Reserves. Dale is a Iraq war veteran. Dale came on the podcast to talk about his experiences, stories, and some amazing things he's apart of. He is incharge of the new "Monuments Men/Women" that direct commissions individuals that are subject matter experts in Art, Energy, foreign language, etc. He is also behind the amazing Hero Cards that showcases American service men and women and their stories of sacrifice and service. This was a great podcast filled with history and humor.

Jon Bornemann was on the podcast today. Jon has spent total 22 years in the Army and is still serving. His first 7 year was with 10th and 5th Special Forces Group as an Intel guy. He also spent 20 years in law enforcement. Jon facilitates an amazing program called Reboot Recovery for veterans, first responders, and there are course for everyone else. Jon share his story and experiences today with the intent to make an impact on his community as a whole. This was a powerful podcast.

Cody Krepline was on the podcast today. 2 deployments to Iraq and 1 to Afghanistan. Cody and I deep dived into his extremely personal story and experiences. He talked about his addictions and his 4 separate suicide attempts. He is an avid hunter and loves to fish. This was the second time he's ever share his story. It was deeply emotional and healing for Cody and myself. Your story is yours, and that's all. When you are ready to share, there are people willing to listen.

Today on the podcast Tyler Reilly and I called 5 veterans in Wisconsin and throughout the country and gave away 6 sets of tires apart of the Wheel For Warriors program. https://www.wheelsforwarriors.com

Nathan Martin joined me on the podcast today! Nate served 4 years Active duty as a Heavy Equipment Operator at Fort Knox. He shared his story and his experiences with his service, transitioning, and our shared love for coffee. Nate wasn't treated the best by fellow veterans or civilians cause he never deployed. Nate is a dedicated father and husband and owns Bearded Veteran Wood Works.

Veterans don't miss this chance at small business training, mentors and cash for your business! Are you a Veteran who owns a small business? Are you a Veteran with an idea for a business? Yes? Then apply to be part of the Innovation Accelerator for Veterans Program at Fox Valley Technical College. This entrepreneur and small business training immerses you in the process of business model design and small business management. Phase One includes a three-day workshop and Phase Two includes the business planning E-seed Training Series and during Phase Three you choose: Financial Management for Entrepreneurs OR Website Design and Promotion series. Upon successful completion in the Innovation Accelerator for Veterans Program, each Veteran receives $1,000.00 towards the launch and/or growth of their small business! This program kicks off on April 22 with limited availability for 25 Veterans. Apply NOW. Log on to www.FVTC.edu/VentureCenter or call Amy at 920-735-2594 to apply!

Founder/CEO of Tri-Bolt Defense David Marrero was on the podcast. 13+ years and still serving in the Army Reserves as a Human Intelligence Collection Officer. He's an Iraq War veteran and did some Contracting work in Afghanistan. David has a great story, grew up in Milwaukee, had a band and then ended up in the Army. His company empowers veterans and has a passion to hire veterans. Our conversation was very casual and we shared a lot of great ideas and some frustrations. We also spoke about the origins of Tri-Bolt and his efforts to improve the security industry by providing a place for veterans to put their unique skillsets in action.

Loison Kast came on the podcast today. 2 tours- 1 in Kuwait and 1 in Iraq. Served 20 years in the Wisconsin Army Guard. Loison shared his very personal and private story and many of things we talked about he hasn't even thought about in many years. He also shared a very personal story about a lie he told for 13 years and owned it. Loison is an incredible veteran because of how he has owned his past and allowed it to propel him forward. This was a very cerebral and thought provoking conversation.

Chad Stillman Former SWAT Operator/Sniper- Law Enforcement/FBI Task Force member. Chad came on and he shared his very personal and emotional experience as a police officer. We also talked about the day that changed his life and families. Chad talked about his PTSD and how he finds therapy and positive outlets elsewhere. We also talk about finding Empathy and how to harness that into everyday life. He shared his passion to help others and bowhunting. It was an honor to have him visit the studio and share his story.

Founder Paul House and his friends Warren and Jeff were on the podcast today. House in The Woods is a nonprofit located in Maine that helps facilitate Bear hunts, Moose Hunts, fishing, and much more. Paul is a gold star father, his son was killed in Iraq. He founded this organization in honor of his son and all those who didn't make it home. This was a emotional, educational, and fun podcast.

Adam Howarth Iraq War veteran- Combat Medic came on the podcast. We talked in depth about his amazing life before the military. We talked about his time in Iraq that greatly affected him and emotional stories about loosing teammates. His transition and his awesome podcast called Fight Or Die Podcast. Adam is phenomenal veteran ambassador for Wisconsin.

Kyle Arneson is a Marine Corps Veteran and the found of Objective Veteran Smile. A Wisconsin Nonprofit that is assisting veterans with dental services. Dental services are the second most requested service in the VA and most do not qualify for those services.

Adam Alexander- Afghanistan/Army Veteran. Adam served in Civil Affairs and work along side Special Forces ODA while deployed. Adam was shot in the head and lost the usage of his right eye. Adam's story is incredible, inspiring, and humbling.

Bryan Simmons came on the podcast to talk about his passion of helping local businesses with his company Rely Local North & West Greater Milwaukee Areas. We shared some ideas and concepts that hinder businesses and veteran orgs. He has a massive heart and loves to connect to others. Lots of fun! https://www.relylocal.com/north-mke-area-counties

Custom-made, heirloom-quality furniture is more available than you think. Louis VandeHey, over at Willow Tree Woodworking, custom-builds high-quality, handmade furniture that will stand the test of time, right here in Northeast Wisconsin. Weather you're looking for something special to fit a unique space, a piece that you can pass down some day, or that statement piece of furniture to put in your home to let everyone know that you appreciate quality and craftsmanship - Willow Tree Woodworking can help. https://www.willowtreewood.com

Jeff Hein was on the podcast today! Served 20 years as an Infantryman. Retired as a First Sergeant. Deployed to Bosnia twice, Korea, and Operation Desert Shield. He served as County Veteran Service Officer for Taylor County Wisconsin for 6 years. He is also a new author of fictional book called The Cimbri Appear.

Josh Schoemann OG Iraq Veteran and current Washington County, WI County Executive came on the podcast today! Josh and I had a very relaxed podcast about veterans community, professional development, stolen valor, bow hunting, and much more.

Veterans Day Podcast with former Green Beret Greg Stube. Spent 20+ years by in Special Forces. We talked about life, combat, injuries, veteran community, etc. Greg is an avid fisherman and hunter.

Matt Swanson and I had a great podcast on the Marine Corps birthday last week. Matt was apart of the invasion into Iraq in 2003 and was General Mattis's Driver. Matt has some amazing stories and experiences and it was an honor to meet him and collaborate with him.

Duwayne Schwartz on the podcast today to talk about his Nonprofit Operation K9 Hero. His organization takes therapy dogs to firehouses, police depts, and many other places to provide and positive outlet. Duwayne has been a firefighter/ paramedic for 22 years. This was a great podcast centered around mental health.

Aaron Hunnel came back for a follow up about his journey across America. Aaron rode his bike from California to Maryland in 21 days. Average 141 miles per day. Conquering Deserts, mountains, dehydration, hillbillies, and mean dogs. Please check out Ride to Stop Suicide and all the recap videos. I am very proud of Aaron and his crew.

Thought provoking podcast with Kevin Nicholson . Kevin is a Marine/ Iraq & Afghanistan veteran. He runs No Better Friends Corp. We chatted about so much… Veteran transitioning, politics, Afghan Exit, failures of government at different levels, we dabbled with CRT, and much more. It was an honor to host him and his team!

Had the honor to call 11 veterans today on my podcast and surprised them with free tires/wheels from Wheels For Warriors with a massive donation from Fallen Grafix. Direct impact on their quality of life. This episode will be live on Veterans Day!

I'm proud that I was asked and invited to do a podcast at the Horicon Marsh Veterans Hunt. I had the amazing honor to have a handful of veterans and some board members to share some insight about the annual hunt. Most only shared 5 mins or so of their thoughts and excitement after their first morning.