Morning Motivation

Next up is retired Army EOD tech, Jeff Truex. If you’re wondering what an EOD tech is- it’s a highly trained professional who locates, identifies, and disposes of explosives. Jeff is a representative for “After the Long Walk”, a Suicide Prevention Hotline for EOD Techs. For more of his story, you know what to do- sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!This episode is an installment of our Over, Never Out Series. Donate Here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=VJFC2CNJWPUKJ The Over, Never Out Concert for the Military and our Veterans 21 FEB 2025 Jon Bon Jovi’s Nashville On Friday the 21st of February 2025 our band will take part in a concert at JBJ’s Nashville to honor our military and veteran communities and raise awareness of the suicide crisis, while highlighting solutions and the organizations across the country that stand ready to help. Purpose: To build more synergy among veterans, current military members, non-profits that are assisting our military communities, medical professionals in the mental health fields, interested citizens, and current and future donors that want to help us strengthen our patriots and reduce the occurrences of suicide.

Marisa Colwell is the surviving spouse of Air Force Master Sergeant Aaron Colwell. Marisa is such a strong and beautiful woman. On October 24, 2021, Marisa came home to discover her husband had taken his own life. Since then, she has navigated grief and has committed herself to healing, hoping, and helping others. For more of her story, sit back, relax, and get your pens ready.This episode is an installment of our Over, Never Out Series. Donate Here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=VJFC2CNJWPUKJ The Over, Never Out Concert for the Military and our Veterans 21 FEB 2025 Jon Bon Jovi’s Nashville On Friday the 21st of February 2025 our band will take part in a concert at JBJ’s Nashville to honor our military and veteran communities and raise awareness of the suicide crisis, while highlighting solutions and the organizations across the country that stand ready to help. Purpose: To build more synergy among veterans, current military members, non-profits that are assisting our military communities, medical professionals in the mental health fields, interested citizens, and current and future donors that want to help us strengthen our patriots and reduce the occurrences of suicide.

Up Next, is retired Lieutenant Colonel, who served 20+ years as an Army Aviation and Acquisition Corp Officer, John Schmitt. He is now CEO and co-founder of iXpress Genes, which is a PTSD diagnostic test focusing on RNA biomarkers. iXpress Genes is a simple blood test that can inform clinicians of inflammation and cellular stress caused by PTSD. For more of John’s story, sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!

Up next, we are pleased to welcome the esteemed Steve Scofes, a true luminary in the industry. Steve is not merely a lobbyist; he embodies the roles of both consultant and industry expert. With extensive experience in high-stakes negotiations involving Fortune 500 companies, he has made significant contributions to federal procurement, particularly with the Department of Defense and more recently worked diligently on President Trump’s campaign. You know what to do, sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!

Up next is former running mate for Florida House of Representatives, Logan Luse. Logan is an old friend of mine from University of Florida  and moved to Brevard County shortly after graduating. He is a young professional knowledgable in all things agriculture, environment, and natural resources. Logan has developed a conservative approach at preserving Florida’s natural environment and is dedicated to improving the industry standard. For more of his story, sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!

Today, we are thrilled to introduce a special guest who embodies versatility, creativity, and resilience: Mike Ellison. Mike is an African-American recording artist, actor, and activist whose journey is as dynamic as his talents. Though currently based in Detroit, Mike's roots and life experiences span continents, giving him a unique and rich perspective. Born in Ethiopia and raised in Virginia, Mike's early adult years were spent in the professional sports world before he transitioned into a full-time artist in Detroit. Mike discusses his passion project, The AfroFlow Tour. This tour combines music and outreach programs in the U.S. and Africa, earning Mike international acclaim and underscores his dedication to using art as a vehicle for social change. The AfroFlow Tour has extended further- partnering with the American Cancer Society. Together, they aimed to empower the youth to prioritize their well-being and make informed decisions for a tobacco-free future. We are honored to have Mike Ellison with us, sharing his journey and insights with our community. https://mikeellison.me/full-bio/  

Lauren Jackson is such a special young woman. She has been through unimaginable grief, as she experienced losing her baby daughter Myla, at only a few months old. Lauren has navigated through pain, anguish, and confusion. She has fought each day to grasp hope. Lauren is passionate about leaving a legacy for sweet Myla and encouraging people to reach out for hope. You know what to do, sit back, relax and get your pens ready! @laurenjackson5@widpod

Tim Maratta, Brooke's dad, takes over @widpod_ to interview Brooke about her weekend in South Florida's Prison System. She recounts stories of inmate encounters, God's forgiveness, and the brevity of life. Tim also dives into her recent travels abroad and what it was like being across the world in Australia. You won't want to miss this father-daughter special. Sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!!

On the mic today is special guest Ronika Stone. Ronika is a professional volleyball player for the San Diego Mojo and former middle blocker for the University of Oregon. Her career was unmatched at Oregon as she finished as the all-time career leader in block assists with 429. She is the only player in program history to reach 400 career block assists. Ronika chats with us about her volleyball journey, family ties, and her sweet relationship with NFL quarterback, Jordan Love. You know what to do, sit back, relax, and get your pens ready! @ronikastone@widpod@vpr_branding

Ryan Ochoa is one of Hollywood's most precious childhood stars. However, his career in the spotlight doesn't end there. Instead, it was just the start. Ochoa is a talented actor, producer, singer, and songwriter. I am so thankful I met Ryan, not only because he was on one of my memorable childhood tv shows, iCarly, but rather his kindness and electric energy. Wherever Ryan goes, he brings joy and a contagious drive towards excellence. You won't want to miss this episode, as we discuss the recent SAG strike, his favorite people in the industry, and the future of Ryan Ochoa. Sit back, relax, and get your pens ready!! @widpod@ryanochoa