DTD PODCAST DJ KELLY

This week in the studio, an extraordinary individual whose life's journey transcends the boundaries of adversity, resilience, and redemption. From a turbulent past marked by brushes with the law, the U.S. Navy SEALs, and subsequent turmoil that led to a downward spiral, His story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for transformation. After hitting rock bottom and grappling with homelessness and despair, a pivotal moment guided him across the Atlantic to the French Foreign Legion. It was here, amidst discipline and self-restraint, that he discovered redemption, inner peace, and the profound fortification of mind and body. My guest stands as the sole individual to have walked the path of both a United States Navy SEAL and a French Foreign Legionnaire, embodying a remarkable narrative of personal evolution and triumph. With a guiding mantra of "Training the body and mind for the divine design," he inspires others to commence their journey towards realizing their dreams despite life's most formidable obstacles.

Ben Wallick, aka the “Vanilla Gorilla” (a nickname he was given in the SEAL teams), joined the Navy immediately after graduating high school in July 2001. He went through BUDS (SEAL) training class 242 and after completion was assigned to SEAL Team 2 where he served as a Lead Breacher, Team Leader, and other various capacities for multiple combat deployments overseas to the Middle East. He detached from SEAL Team 2 in 2009 where he then spent his last year on active duty at Naval Special Warfare Training Detachment assault cell teaching all the east cost SEAL teams close-quarter combat tactics. After leaving active duty in 2010 he still remained attached to SEAL Team 18 (reserve team) until 2012. Since leaving the SEAL teams, he has spent the last 12 years doing hired gun security contract work INCONUS and overseas. Here at home, he has worked for multiple security/tactical training companies teaching firearms instruction, small unit tactics, and CQC. Overseas he has worked as a GRS agent in a high-risk detail providing personal security assessments and mobile personal security protection for CIA field agents in combat environments in the Middle East. He has also worked overseas as an APASS operator deploying aboard container vessels in international waters in high-threat areas conducting anti-piracy operations.

Joseph Hahn was raised in central Texas under the care of Child Protective Services as a foster child in multiple homes from age five until he graduated high school. He was accepted into Texas A&M following graduation where he studied Biomedical Science for a pre-med degree. While attending Texas A&M University for a Biomedical Science Degree, he volunteered to serve after our great nation was attacked. Joseph spent 14 years in the United States Navy as a Special Operator First Class (SEAL). After completing Basic Underwater Demolition /SEAL training Class 252, he was stationed on a west coast team where he deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) from 2005-2009. In 2009 Joseph Hahn completed Selection and Training for Naval Special Warfare Development Group where he was assigned at NSWTACDEVRON 4. At DEV 4 he deployed three times to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and other undisclosed locations worldwide. During these deployments, he was involved in hundreds of capture/kill missions of the top terrorist worldwide, as personal security detail for US generals, state officials, and foreign officials. Joseph Hahn also conducted multiple advanced special operations which utilized tracking, following, and surveillance of various persons of interest. He also developed and coordinated foreign internal defense (FID) training of Iraqi, Afghanistan, and other foreign special forces units. Some of his awards include the Purple Heart, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, 3x Navy/Marine Corp Commendation Medal w/ Combat V, 2x Combat Action, 2x Presidential Unit Commendation, 2x Joint Unit Commendation, 4x Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Global War on Terror Service, Global War on Terror Deployment, Iraq Campaign, Afghanistan Campaign, 5x Sea Service Deployment, ISAF NATO, Expert Rifle, and Expert Pistol. Currently, Joe conducts weapons and tactics training for law enforcement and active duty military.

Meet Liam Cogan, a man whose journey has been marked by unwavering dedication, resilience, and a unique blend of military precision and entrepreneurial spirit. A retired Navy SEAL, Liam's career is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate the most challenging environments. Having served as a Navy SEAL, Liam honed his skills in elite special operations, where he undoubtedly faced adversity and triumphed through rigorous training and real-world missions. His experience and leadership within the SEAL teams equipped him with a set of values that extend far beyond the battlefield. Post-military service, Liam has seamlessly transitioned into the business world, emerging as the CEO of "Silent Butt Deadly." This venture, no doubt bearing a touch of humor, suggests a strategic and calculated approach, mirroring Liam's military background. As the leader of this endeavor, he brings a unique perspective, combining his SEAL training with a keen business acumen. Liam Cogan's story is one of continued service, this time in the corporate landscape, where he applies the principles of discipline, teamwork, and precision that defined his military career. As the CEO of "Silent Butt Deadly," he showcases the adaptability and leadership qualities that make him a force to be reckoned with in both military and entrepreneurial circles.

This week in the studio, a remarkable individual whose journey spans from the tranquil shores of Hilo, Hawaii, to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, California. His life took a pivotal turn at the tender age of 10, marking the beginning of a series of extraordinary experiences. At 18, Nicholas embarked on a new chapter, enlisting in the Army and subsequently serving with distinction for a decade.
Within the Army, Nicholas became an integral part of the esteemed 82nd Airborne and later joined the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, where he honed his skills as an Army Ranger. During six deployments, his unwavering dedication and courage earned him both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star with Valor, testament to his commitment to duty and the sacrifices he made for his country.
Currently, Nicholas is a junior at Harvard College, pursuing a degree in neuroscience with a profound mission—to advocate for non-standard forms of therapy. Amidst his academic pursuits, he has set his sights on a unique and challenging goal: becoming the first actively enrolled student in Harvard's history to summit the tallest mountain on every continent. This ambitious endeavor serves a dual purpose—raising awareness about student mental health and inspiring fellow veterans to pursue education after completing their military service.
Nicholas's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As he navigates the academic landscape at Harvard and scales towering peaks, his story unfolds as a beacon of inspiration and a call to action for mental health advocacy and educational pursuits post-military service.

With a robust background spanning two decades as a Navy SEAL across SEAL Team FIVE, SEAL Team EIGHT, and Special Boat Team TWENTY, my guest ventured through multiple combat theaters in the Pacific, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Graduating from the revered BUD/S training in August '97 (Class 212), my guest charted a path from an enlisted Mineman to a commissioned Navy SEAL Officer. His journey is peppered with milestones – from sniper training to guiding teams in combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Post-retirement, he navigated to the University of Southern California, steering veteran programs as the Director of Development and standing tall within the President's team as the Manager of Military and Veteran Services. My guest’s academic journey includes an outstanding thesis at Naval Postgraduate School and a Masters of Public Policy, culminating in his current role as a Corporate Security Analyst at Dominion Energy, based right here in Virginia Beach. He lives by the motto “Transition is Temporary please welcome Mark Greene into the studio