Afleveringen
-
On this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger dives deep into the does and don'ts of credit wisdom with US Army SGM Bayon Harris (RET) and CEO of the YCAP PROGRAM. They discuss the good, bad, and ugly decisions Service Members make when they return home from deployment.
What does good credit look like and why it is importantDecisions Service Members make and how it can impact their financial future.How to maintain good credit scores and proper balances on your cards.Why you should pay of your interest free credit debts before the due date.The myths behind paying off credit cards completely.Why buying a brand new car off the service lot is a costly mistake.The one soldier who actually invested her deployment money and actually bought a [email protected] and why SGM Harris doesn't take clients on unless they are willing to change their lives and change their habits.Regrets from a friend who purchased a 60K vehicle when he already had two good forms of transportation that were already paid for.Why making money as we get older becomes easier. .Why each Service Member must have plan and a vision of the future when they return from deployment.Closing statement; Like and share.Please leave a comment at [email protected] If you would like to see more of our continuing series on reflections of my military career, email me at the above address and I will try to accommodate my listeners. Was there anything that caught your attention from Bayon Harris's comments and why? 👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch? Apple Podcasts v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
The Military Historian iheart Radio Lloyd Shellenberger The Military Historian Podcast offers a deep dive into the complexities of military history through engaging interviews with military veterans, respected leaders, and knowledgeable experts. Each episode explores a range of compelling topics, including:
In this episode we sit down with BG Vincent Buggs, host of Embrace the Power and and discuss where we are from a legacy media perspective and our shared experiences with media as well.
As a former Brigadier General Vincent Buggs has extensive experience dealing with the military and navigatings its pitfalls.
**Pivotal Battles and Strategic Turning Points**: Delve into significant conflicts that changed the course of history, examining the strategies, decisions, and consequences that shaped nations and societies.**Lesser-Known Missions**: Discover intriguing, often overlooked military operations that have played a crucial role in shaping our contemporary world. These missions highlight the bravery and ingenuity of service members in challenging situations.**Leadership Lessons from Service Members**: Gain insights into the leadership qualities and strategies that military personnel develop in high-pressure environments. Learn how these lessons can apply to various aspects of life, both in and out of uniform.**Human Stories Behind Military Operations**: Explore the personal narratives and experiences of those who have served, shedding light on the sacrifices, challenges, and triumphs that define military life and operations.Through thoughtful discussions and storytelling, the podcast brings history to life, offering listeners a richer understanding of the military’s impact on our world.Through The Military Historian Podcast, Shellenberger interviews military veterans, leaders, and experts to explore: Pivotal battles and strategic turning points Lesser-known missions that shaped modern history Leadership lessons from service members The human stories behind military operations 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/48570251...
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected]
This episode includes AI-generated content. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
What is it like to grow up amid war, survive unimaginable violence, and rebuild your life in a new country? In this episode of The Military Historian Podcast, I speak with Ahmed Al Abbasi about his extraordinary childhood in Iraq — losing his father, living through brutal attacks, and eventually finding safety and a future in America.
1. Ahmed opens up about: The day his father was killed while trying to secure passports for the family Living under constant threat, learning to defend his home as a child
2.The terrifying raids, ambushes, and survival tactics in a war zone
3. The cultural richness of Iraq — family, food, and deep historical roots
4. Starting over as a refugee and adapting to life in the U.S.
5. Lessons of resilience, identity, and hope
🕒 Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & introduction by host Lloyd Shellenberger
00:39 – Starting the conversation; Ahmed introduces himself
01:06 – Background on Ahmed’s father and mission to Baghdad
02:25 – The day of the attack — losing his father and brother
05:00 – Family’s immediate survival plans and self-defense as children
07:38 – Fear, community danger, and early trauma in wartime Iraq
10:00 – Violence and survival culture — letters with bullets, constant threats
11:06 – Psychological toll of war on childhood
12:10 – Learning to defend the family home with weapons and dogs
16:58 – Timeline of leaving Iraq and journey to America
20:00 – Family’s struggle to make a living in war-torn Iraq (scrap metal, survival jobs)
22:22 – Cultural identity and navigating ethnic/religious divisions
24:04 – Ahmed’s father’s defiance against Saddam’s regime and consequences
27:14 – Ahmed’s mother’s resilience and survival strategies
28:28 – Arrival in the U.S. and adapting to a new life
29:34 – Importance of allies and support from American soldiers and friends
30:00 – Closing reflections on identity, resilience, and hope
👉 If Ahmed’s story moved you, hit like and subscribe — we bring real, human stories from conflict and survival to life.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — what part of Ahmed’s journey stayed with you? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim&pp=gAQB0gcJCaIEOCosWNin 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What’s the real difference between serving in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Navy? On this episode of The Military Historian Podcast, I sit down with my brother Jim Shellenberger, a Navy veteran who served in the Middle East in the early 1990s. Together, we break down the roles, missions, and capabilities of every branch of the U.S. military — from boots on the ground to aircraft carriers acting as floating cities.
Jim served aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) with the VF-31 Tomcatters, working with F-14s, F-18s, A-6s, and more. His firsthand knowledge of carrier operations, fleet defense, and global power projection gives incredible insight into what the Navy actually does — and how it differs from the Army’s mission on land.
We cover: Life aboard a massive aircraft carrier (5,100 personnel!)How carrier groups dominate global airspace Fleet defense, strike packages, and modern Navy aircraft China’s “anti-access bubble” and why it mattersThe American military’s technological edge The roles of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force & Merchant Marines How AI is transforming future warfare Why logistics decide every war 🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Army vs Navy on The Military Historian
00:32 – Introducing Jim Shellenberger
00:53 – Jim’s service timeline and Desert Storm era
01:09 – Boot camp (1992), San Diego, and joining VF-31 Tomcatters
01:41 – Life on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70)
01:49 – 5,100 people on a floating military city 02:14 – Lloyd’s Army vs Jim’s Navy: Mission comparison
02:46 – What aircraft carriers actually do
03:28 – Supporting the Marines and expeditionary units
04:01 – Amphibious operations explained
04:30 – F-14 squadron duties and fleet defense
05:36 – Gen-4 aircraft and Navy aviation evolution
06:26 – F-14 history and retirement
06:32 – Comparing global airpower (Russia, China, US)
06:56 – China’s rapid development and anti-access “bubble”
07:54 – Island-building and missile sponge strategy
08:41 – Why China pushes the maritime bubble outward
09:24 – What a U.S. carrier can dominate (California to Nevada example)
10:00 – The role of AI in modern warfare
10:40 – Material science, radar advancements, and future tech
11:21 – Why humans will stay in the kill chain
12:40 – Golden Dome, Iron Dome, and future defense systems 1
2:53 – Why Russia is not a true superpower
3:42 – China’s emerging power in the Pacific
4:13 – Breaking down each military branch (Army first)
14:25 – Army: capturing & holding territory
14:40 – Marines vs Army in offensive operations
15:22 – Navy: controlling seas & commerce 15:50 – Carrier dominance and airspace control 16:11 – Air Force: missiles, strategic bombers & logistics
16:38 – Heavy bombers and recent uses
17:01 – Fighter support & global airlift
17:28 – Merchant Marines & Coast Guard roles
17:57 – Marines as rapid assault forces
18:30 – Deception tactics and amphibious warfare
19:19 – Closing reflection: Life, service & family
20:07 – Final sign-off and gratitude
👉 If you enjoy these breakdowns, hit like and subscribe — we simplify complex military topics every week. 💬 Comment: Which branch do you think has the hardest mission? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim&pp=gAQB0gcJCaIEOCosWNin 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
On this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger goes back to post war Berlin to talk about what Berliners went through, what he saw on my visit to Checkpoint Charlie decades later!
What was it like during my early military years and what leadership did to teach a young impressionable soldier? Basic at Fort McLellan and what has happened to it since BRAC realignment. Germany and the culture. The best duty station I ever served at.207th Aviation Company Heidelberg Germany. What has happened to this once great military post and unit since it was relocated, and why the post was closed and abandoned. General Alexander Haig as the Commander of U.S. European forces from 1974-1979. The importance of assimilating to the German culture. We discuss our time in Iraq and the things we saw as soldiers.The beauty of Berlin, a city bathed in sadness and occupationOne look in the eyes of an east German youth and what life lesson it taught me.Why didn’t communism work back then and why it will never work.The importance of choosing your leaders wisely and why you should believe your elected officials when they tell you something.Please leave a comment at [email protected]
If you would like to see more of our continuing series on reflections of my military career, email me at the above address and I will try to accommodate my listeners.
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What was it like to guard declassified nuclear weapons during the Cold War — while officially “not existing”? In this episode of The Military Historian, host Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with Crystal Turner, a former U.S. Army Military Police officer whose service in Germany placed her at one of the most secretive and dangerous assignments of the era.
Crystal shares her journey from growing up in Milwaukee to joining the Army nearly five decades ago, becoming a female MP in a male-dominated MOS, and serving at isolated nuclear sites that never appeared on any map.She opens up about racism in basic training, the pressure of 24-hour nuclear security shifts, facing armed responses even while in uniform, and living under constant Cold War threat from terrorist groups like the Baader-Meinhof Gang.This episode explores: - Life at classified nuclear sites in Cold War Germany -Being the only woman on isolated military assignments - Armed encounters, strict security protocols, and constant drills - Racism, resilience, and breaking barriers as a Black female MP -The reality of Cold War terrorism targeting U.S. forces -Faith, service, and Crystal’s lifelong motto: “God First” 🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Crystal Turner and her Army service
01:10 – Why Crystal joined the Army as a single mother
02:45 – Choosing a male-dominated MP MOS
04:30 – Basic training at Fort McClellan and early challenges
06:10 – Racism and leadership pressure during training
08:20 – Assignment to isolated nuclear weapons sites in Germany
10:50 – “We were never on the map” — life at classified locations
12:05 – Guns drawn on Crystal while in uniform
13:45 – Constant drills, heightened alerts, and nuclear security
15:00 – Cold War terrorism and the Baader-Meinhof threat
18:10 – Living near active terror cells while pregnant
20:55 – The pressure that broke many soldiers
22:30 – Faith, strength, and surviving the mission
25:10 – Breaking barriers as a Black female MP
26:45 – “God First” — Crystal’s lifelong motto
28:30 – Closing reflections and final thoughts
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value real military history told by the people who lived it. 💬 Comment: What part of Crystal’s story surprised you the most? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim&pp=gAQB0gcJCaIEOCosWNin 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
Letters From Baghdad. Fatima’s story Part 2.
In this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with former Iraqi war refuge and Widow Fatima Al Abase turned proud American.
We dive deep into her new life and the struggles she has endure to crave out a life in America for her family.
We discuss the newfound freedoms and what Iraq still means to her in a post war era. Fatima Al Abase, and Ahmed Al Abase, native Iraqis talk about what they have seen in their recent visits to Iraq and the future of their beloved country and 21 years later since they left Iraq.
Ahmed and Fatima remember the days when Iraq wasn’t so friendly a place to be and the dangers he and his family navigated to leave Iraq and escape certain death.
Fatima talks about the murder of her sister by the Iraqi regime and Saddam. Both Fatima and Ahmed believe she is dead and will never be seen again.
Fatima discusses January 16, 2005, the day her husband was murdered and her son Omar was also believed to be dead.
Her initial reaction and her call to action to save her family and children from certain death. Despite the lingering US "Do Not Travel" advisory, the city's physical appearance has shifted dramatically in the last 3 years.
Since this time, Fatima and Ahmed have visited family members back in Iraq. They give us their impression of Iraq today and where it may be going in the future.
Fatima speaks directly to the people of Iraq asking them to have patience and believe in the process and to keep hope alive for the future of Iraq while progress slowly erases T-barriers and U.S. military bases.
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
On this episode of the Military Historian Host Lloyd Shellenberger does a deep dive into the Hormuz Conflict and the severe long-term friction over nuclear and proxy activities. What events led up to the military conflicts within the region?
The Irgc is believed to have killed 30-50 thousand of its own citizens. While actual numbers may never be verified, the mass genocide of its own people has been verified.Pathway Defunct: Iran's primary potential source for weapons-grade plutonium was the heavy-water research reactor at Arak. Under the original 2015 JCPOA, under this framework, the core of this reactor was rendered inoperable (filled with concrete).Focus on Uranium: All mid-2026 U.S. intelligence and IAEA tracking data focus strictly on Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles. As of early 2026, Iran held an estimated 440 kg (970 lbs) of uranium enriched up to 60% (near-weapons grade)Declassified U.S. intelligence assessments and statements from the IAEA continue to state that while Iran possesses the technical capacity to produce fissile material quickly via uranium, there is no evidence the Supreme Leader has ordered the resumption of a structured, systematic nuclear weaponization program.What was the deal that Trump made with Iran yesterday and do we get the enriched Uranium and was there money exchanged?On Wednesday, June 17, 2026, President Trump officially signed a 14-point temporary framework and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the G7 summit in France. What are the particulars?The details regarding the uranium and the financial terms of this preliminary deal outline a distinct shift from the administration's initial demands:The Retaliation (March 4, 2026): Within 48 hours, Iran officially declared the Strait of Hormuz "closed," immediately targeting civilian merchant shipping. Major global shipping conglomerates suspended all routine operations.The Counter-Blockade (April 13, 2026): While Iran initially tried to continue exporting its own oil while denying passage to others, the U.S. Navy implemented a strict "blockade of the blockaders," systematically stopping and disabling unauthorized tankers.The Tactical Hardware: Asymmetric Warfare vs. Naval SupremacyThe battle in the Strait of Hormuz is a classic conflict between high-tech conventional defense and cheap, distributed, asymmetric offense.Loitering Munitions (Drones): Anti-Ship Ballistic & Cruise Missiles Swarming Fast Attack Craft (FAC) Smart Sea Mines Dusting off the A-10 Warthogs for duty. AEGIS Combat System: Deployed on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. "Naval Overwatch" & Omani Coastal Escorts Phalanx CIWS & RIM-116 Rolling Airframe MissilesKharg Island is the single most important geographic location to understand regarding the economic leverage of this war. . Kharg Island handles over 90% of Iran's total crude oil exports. It holds massive storage tank farms, loading docks, and deep-water berths capable of loading massive Supertankers (VLCCs).The 5,000 personnel ordered to the Middle East by Defense Secretary Pete HegsethRegional Strategic Hubs: Elements are tasked with supporting U.S. Central Command objectives, which includes reinforcing the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and securing maritime transit corridorsThe Broader Macroeconomic Ripple Effects. The closure of the Middle East's primary maritime corridors—with both the Strait of Hormuz blocked and the Suez Canal disrupted by simultaneous drone warfare—has triggered a global economic supply shock.The Veins of Global Commerce If the global economy has a circulatory system, maritime chokepoints are its major arteries.The Other Global Chokepoints: Economic & Military ProfilesWith upcoming Midterms a few months away, only time will tell if this conflict remains in the forefront of American voters minds come election time. here’s what's at stake: Voters will decide the composition of Congress, including all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 33 of the 100 seats in the Senate, alongside numerous state and local offices. • Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026. • Scope: All 435 House seats, 33 Senate seats, and 36 gubernatorial races. • As of June 18, 2026 this is where standThe Enriched Uranium (Nuclear Terms)
Please leave a comment at [email protected] If you would like to see more of our continuing leadership series, email me at the above address and I will try to accommodate my listeners. 👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What goes through your mind when you find out you’re deploying to Iraq — and you’re not sure you’re ready? In this episode of The Military Historian.
1. Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with Josh Klundt, a former Army specialist with B Company, 141st out of North Dakota, who deployed to Iraq alongside Grant Wills and Shane Beckert, serving as Shane’s driver. Josh opens up about:
2. Receiving the news that he was going to Iraq The fear and disbelief that set in before deployment Life in miserable, unfamiliar conditions overseas Brotherhood forged through shared hardship Learning fast in a combat zone with no room for mistakes.
3. The reality of war versus expectations back home This episode captures the raw, unfiltered perspective of a young soldier thrown into a war zone — not as a hero from a movie, but as a human being learning to survive, trust his team, and do his job under pressure.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Josh Klundt
00:42 – Meeting Josh and confirming his unit and role
01:12 – Deploying with Grant Wills and Shane Beckert
01:15 – Serving as a driver in Iraq
03:13 – Miserable living conditions and early experiences
03:23 – Finding out about deployment to Iraq
03:27 – Fear, disbelief, and mental preparation
05:10 – Equipment shortages and harsh realities
07:45 – Brotherhood and reliance on teammates
10:30 – Adjusting to life in a combat zone
13:15 – Lessons learned early in deployment
16:40 – The emotional weight of war
19:20 – How Iraq changed Josh permanently
22:05 – Reflections on service and brotherhood
24:00 – Closing thoughts
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think is the hardest part of deploying for the first time? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What does it mean to grow up in the middle of a war zone? In this episode, I sit down with Zuheer, who shares his powerful story of survival, displacement, and the search for safety as a child caught in the chaos of conflict.
Through his eyes, we see the reality of:
Life as a child during wartime The dangers and struggles of escaping a war zoneThe lasting impact of displacement on identity and growthHow resilience and hope can carry us through the darkest timesThis conversation contrasts the perspective of a child enduring war with that of a veteran who lived it from the other side, creating a raw, human dialogue about struggle, resilience, and the will to survive.
👉 If Zuheer’s story moved you, hit like and subscribe for more unfiltered conversations that reveal the human side of history. 💬 Share in the comments: what part of Zuheer’s journey resonated most with you? 🔔 Don’t forget to turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
On this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with Omar Alabase, one year after the original interview.
1. What has happened in that year, the triumphs and tragedies!
2. He was just 13 years old when terrorists ambushed his father in Iraq.
3. Omar was left covered in his father’s blood, and presumed dead — only to survive and return home to protect his family.
4. Omar delves in deeper than ever before about the day his father was ambushed and murdered.
5. Covered in his father's blood he was left for dead as a child.
6. Eventually, becoming the protector of his family at 13. Living under constant threat and learning survival early.
7. How Jordan and his children have helped him move on.
8. His hopes for the future and starting over in America. Building a life rooted in gratitude, responsibility, and faith.
9. This is a human story — about loss, resilience, and what it means to grow up far too soon.
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value real stories of survival and truth. 💬 Comment: What part of Omar’s story impacted you most? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
On this episode of The Military Historian:
Why woke can be fatal on the battlefield. A full breakdown of the direction of the Department of War and its new directives!
In September, Pete Hegseth addressed senior military leaders with a message that shook the system: woke ideology, DEI programs, and lowered standards have no place in combat.In this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger explains why that statement isn’t political — it’s reality. Drawing on 43 years of military experience, Lloyd breaks down why physical fitness, discipline, and apolitical service are non-negotiable on the battlefield.Using real-world examples from Fallujah, military fitness standards (APFT vs ACFT), and the evolution of readiness requirements, this episode explains what actually keeps soldiers alive — and what puts them at risk.This episode covers: Why combat is the ultimate equalizer How lowered standards endanger livesWhy physical fitness is inseparable from leadership The danger of social engineering inside the military APFT vs ACFT and what combat readiness really meansWhy the military must remain apolitical Brotherhood, trust, and why ideology breaks unit cohesionThe real cost of abandoning standards — measured in lives, not feelings This is not about hate. This is not about politics.This is about protecting the men and women who serve. 🕒 Timestamps (Clean / No Transcript Links)
00:00 – Intro: why this conversation matters
00:50 – Pete Hegseth’s message to military leadership
02:20 – Why “woke” equals failure in combat
03:30 – Fallujah example: moving with purpose saves lives
04:36 – “Bullets are equal-opportunity killers”
05:25 – Why lowered standards endanger soldiers
06:17 – How social engineering infiltrated the military
07:40 – What social engineering really means
08:47 – The military’s true mission: lethality and readiness
09:28 – Trust, brotherhood, and covering your sector
09:47 – Why physical fitness standards exist
10:58 – APFT explained
11:05 – ACFT explained and why it matters
12:44 – Body fat standards and combat effectiveness
13:50 – Why appearances can be deceiving
15:45 – Why the ACFT predicts battlefield performance
16:57 – Policy shifts and social influence over time
17:53 – Why taxpayers should care
19:41 – Progress vs ideology: where the line is
21:23 – Cost to taxpayers and readiness impact
22:41 – Readiness decline and recruiting challenges
24:09 – Military careers and transferable skills
25:40 – Leadership, accountability, and moral courage
26:22 – Protecting soldiers — even at personal cost 27:53 – Brotherhood and what veterans miss most
28:42 – Final warning: combat has no room for ideology
29:06 – Thank you to viewers and supporters
30:45 – Closing thoughts and call to action
👉 Like & Subscribe for unfiltered discussions on military service, leadership, and history. 💬 Comment: Do standards still matter in today’s military? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod 📧 Contact: [email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
In this powerful and deeply informative episode of The Military Historian Podcast, host Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with licensed acupuncturist Dr. Kathleen Rosenblatt to explore PTSD, alternative healing, and the limits of medication inside the VA system.Y
1. Dr. Rosenblatt shares decades of experience working with trauma, acupuncture, electromagnetic medicine, and holistic recovery.
2. This conversation dives into what really happens inside the nervous system after war — and why many veterans remain trapped in fight-or-flight long after returning home.
3. In this episode, you’ll learn about: Why PTSD is rooted in both the brain and the body.
4. How acupuncture and electromagnetic therapy help reset the nervous system Why certain psychiatric medications have been linked to fatal heart risks
5. The truth behind “dead in bed” cases tied to PTSD drugs
6. How trauma imprints across generations. Why veterans struggle to deactivate hyper-focus after combat
7. The role of diet, breath, posture, and emotion in long-term healing. Why real recovery must address the root — not just the symptom
8. This episode is not anti-medicine — it’s pro-truth, pro-healing, and pro-veteran.
Like and share this important episode with fellow service members searching for real answer, not just prescriptions and plattitudes!
You can find Dr. Kathleen Rosenblatt & Brain Body Bliss: https://brainbodybliss.com/ Is modern medicine truly healing our veterans — or just masking the symptoms?
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
On this episode of The Military Historian, we talk to Brigadier General Vincent E. Buggs (RET) about motivation, mentorship, and giving back in our continuing leadership series.
We find out what Embrace the Power is about and the catalyst for motivation change the organization preaches about.What Aspire to Inspire Podcast is why Vincent Buggs is commited to helping others around the world and in his community.We talk to about Southern Georgia University and his family. Is U.S. Army Public Affairs a dying profession? What General Buggs did as a commanding General to promote it during his time at the 79th TSC and the 364th ESC. General Buggs comments on Societie's pivot on morality and our roles as men.Culture and traditions that service members must obey while in another country and protecting Iraq woman and children through non-contact.We discuss out time in Iraq and the things we saw as soldiers. I ponder the philosophical question of one universal truth and its consequences. Brigadier General (RET) Vincent Buggs gives his company, telephone number, and website contact information. What part of this interview with Brigadier General Vincent E. Buggs (RET) caught your attention?
Please leave a comment at [email protected]
If you would like to see more of our continuing leadership series, email me at the above address and I will try to accommodate my listeners.
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value honest, ground-level military stories. 💬 Comment: What do you think? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod IHEART RADIO SPREAKER LINK BELOW https://www.spreaker.com/show/7001526/episodes/feed
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
Former AFN reporter, SSG Lloyd Shellenberger produced and edited an hour-long documentary. This was produced in 2004 for the DOD on Terrorism and his units fight against an unseen and vicious enemy at the height of Zarqawi's reign of terror. From the Left Behind series to documentaries and movies depicting war, SFC Lloyd Shellenberger shares his deeply personal and private experiences in a war zone.
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: YouTube Playlist
📲 Instagram: @themilitaryhistorian 🎬
TikTok: @themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
My Perspective of a National Tragedy My Birthday September 10, 2025. God Bless you Charlie Kirk. Charlie Kirk was a national treasure and a true patriot. I will miss him and his sage advice!
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What makes a great leader — and why do some service members choose the Warrant Officer path over traditional enlisted or officer careers? In this powerful episode of The Military Historian Podcast, host Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with Don Morrison, a seasoned military and law-enforcement professional whose résumé spans MP, CID, Homeland Security, and high-level corporate security.
Don opens up about: The real differences between Enlisted, Officer, and Warrant roles How bad leaders pushed him to study leadership and become better
Life inside CID and the realities of major military investigations
How the military shaped his work ethic, discipline, and career success Leadership lessons from 4-star generals and the value of humility
Why promoting others’ success is the cornerstone of strong leadership The transition from military to law enforcement to corporate security
What young people should know before joining the military
This episode is a master class in leadership, mentorship, and the mindset required to succeed across multiple demanding careers.
🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: What makes a leader
0:50 – Introducing Don Morrison
01:30 – Don’s vast background: MP, CID, Homeland Security, corporate security
02:26 – Learning leadership from the military
03:24 – Promoting others’ success vs. leading through fear
04:18 – Why Don studied leadership after encountering toxic leaders
05:03 – Lessons from generals: humility & people-first leadership
06:41 – Training others to replace you — the military mindset
07:29 – Leaving “operator mode” for “big picture” leadership
08:27 – Government vs. corporate leadership environments
09:25 – How Don got into CID as an E-7
11:41 – What people don’t know about CID
12:31 – CID’s investigative + protective missions
13:07 – Don’s parallel careers in law enforcement & the military
14:22 – Becoming a trainer at Homeland Security
15:37 – The diverse career path that shaped him
16:00 – How Don defines himself today
17:04 – Running major regional security operations
17:57 – What military culture instills permanently
18:39 – Why appearance and standards matter
19:44 – Leadership = removing obstacles so others succeed
20:59 – Fixing broken systems & corporate climate
22:21 – Why law enforcement must confront danger
23:37 – Pulling out of Iraq and memories of deployment
25:09 – Brotherhood in combat
26:01 – Why veterans gravitate toward police, fire, EMS
27:40 – Coordination with Burbank PD & emergency response
28:33 – Leadership exists beyond titles
29:41 – Why Don became a Warrant Officer at age 40
32:07 – Helping younger soldiers through experience
33:52 – How different MOS backgrounds shape candidates
38:11 – Selling points: Enlisted vs Officer vs Warrant
42:26 – What Warrants actually do
43:36 – Advice for young people considering joining
45:02 – Why VA benefits & military structure matter
46:11 – Long-term physical toll & the value of VA care
47:09 – Don’s life philosophy: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
48:03 – Closing remarks
48:17 – Like, subscribe, and final sign-off
👉 Like & Subscribe if you value real stories of service, leadership, and resilience. 💬 Comment: Would you choose Enlisted, Officer, or Warrant — and why? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_rz7hFJGQ8&list=PL1rLt9IdAnJ8_q7EV9VKt6FMoguD5uVim&pp=gAQB0gcJCaIEOCosWNin 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themilitaryhistorian/ 🎬 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What happens when a child is forced to become the man of the family overnight?
In this episode of The Military Historian, Lloyd Shellenberger sits down with Omar Alabase, who was just 13 years old when terrorists ambushed his father in Iraq.Omar was left covered in his father’s blood, and presumed dead — only to survive and return home to protect his family.Omar recounts: The day his father was ambushed and murdered. Being shot at and left for dead as a child.Becoming the protector of his family at 13. Living under constant threat and learning survival early.The bravery of his mother holding the family together.How U.S. soldiers risked their lives to save them.Escaping Iraq and starting over in America.Building a life rooted in gratitude, responsibility, and faith. This is not a political story. It’s a human story — about loss, resilience, and what it means to grow up far too soon.
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
The Military Historian breaks down the qualities that made our Great Grandparents and Grandparents the greatest generation.
1. What made The Greatest Generation truly great? In this heartfelt episode of The Military Historian Podcast, host Lloyd Shellenberger reflects on the legacy of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather — men who fought world wars, survived the Great Depression, and built the moral and physical foundation of modern America.
2. Drawing inspiration from a conversation with friend Stephen Kimbrough, Lloyd redefines what greatness really means through work ethic, personal responsibility, and unwavering faith.
3. He speaks candidly about: How his father buried his brother — then went to war days later The unshakable values of duty, faith, and family that shaped an era
4. Why entitlement and comfort have eroded what earlier generations stood for How real men and women pass down their beliefs through example.
5 The moral code that held America together — and why we must reclaim it.
This episode is part reflection, part challenge, and part tribute to those who never ignored responsibility, never lost faith, and never backed down.
Like and share the latest edition of The Millitary Historian. I can be reached at
[email protected]
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] -
What happens when a soldier’s mission goes beyond survival — when it becomes about keeping a promise and saving lives? In this emotional episode of The Military Historian Podcast, I sit down with Captain Grant Wills, who served as a U.S. Army engineer officer clearing IEDs and protecting convoys on Iraq’s deadly roads. But Grant’s story is more than combat — it’s about an extraordinary bond with an Iraqi man named Majeed Al Abbasi and a life-changing promise that reshaped everything.
Grant shares: Commanding engineer units and facing daily IED threats on MSR Tampa Meeting Majeed Al Abbasi, a brave Iraqi who risked his life to help U.S. forcesThe moment Majeed asked him and fellow soldier Shane Beckert to protect his family if he didn’t survive The intense danger of combat — losing soldiers and surviving deadly ambushesHow he and Shane worked tirelessly to fulfill their vow after Majeed was killedThe emotional journey of bringing Majeed’s widow and children safely to AmericaHealing after war, fatherhood, and the meaning of honor and loyalty🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome & introduction by host Lloyd Shellenberger
00:33 – Introducing Captain Grant Wills and his Iraq deployment
02:15 – Daily danger of IEDs and command responsibilities on MSR Tampa
05:28 – Meeting Majeed Al Abbasi and forging an unexpected friendship
08:14 – The moment Majeed asked Grant & Shane to protect his family
11:26 – Combat intensity: deadly ambushes and surviving explosions
14:35 – Losing soldiers and the weight of command in war
18:00 – Returning home and honoring the promise to Majeed
21:12 – Navigating military channels and fundraising to help the family
25:10 – Emotional reunion with Majeed’s widow Fatima and children in America
29:08 – Lessons on brotherhood, honor, and post-war healing
33:00 – Fatherhood and how war changed Grant’s life perspective
36:40 – Closing reflections on promises, sacrifice, and hope
👉 If Captain Wills’ story inspires you, like and subscribe — we bring raw, human stories of war, sacrifice, and hope every week. 💬 Comment: What part of this journey hit you the hardest? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🔗 Links & Resources 🎥 Watch more episodes: YouTube Playlist 📲 Instagram: @themilitaryhistorian 🎬 TikTok: @themilitaryhistorianpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-military-historian-podcast--7001526/support.
Like and Share the Military Historian as he shares stories from service members and those who have seen the tip of the spear and survived!
[email protected] - Laat meer zien
