After returning to Riverside, CA (post-EAS), Alex Mendoza knew it was time for a change. With the help of fellow Marine Andy Escanuela, he packed his seabag and headed for Oak Cliff, Texas in search of a new beginning. This final chapter of Alex’s story is about second chances, growth, and the brotherhood that keeps showing up—even years after the Corps.

Special thanks to guest contributor Gunny Moon, once again, for lending his voice and perspective to this episode!

General Email: chat62podcast@gmail.com

From Camp Lejeune, Camp Pendleton to Kuwait and back to Camp Pendleton, Alex Mendoza reflects on the highs and lows of his Marine Corps journey. In this installment, we dive into his post-boot camp transition, adapting to new environments, dealing with homesickness, and navigating the cultural shock of military life far from home. Alex also shares leadership lessons learned the hard way, including the lasting impact of a senior Marine—a moment that would forever shape his understanding of integrity and trust.

This episode captures the complexity of service: the disillusionment, the growth, and the resolve it takes to move forward.

Gunny Moon returns as guest collaborator.

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Corporal Alex Mendoza opens up about growing up in the Inland Empire of Southern California & Mexicali, Mexico, navigating family tensions as he left for boot camp, and the emotional weight of chasing something bigger than himself. In this opening chapter, Mendoza reflects on a journey that didn’t follow the standard Marine script—missing the iconic Yellow Footprints, reporting to MOS school before MCT, and stepping into the unknown. This episode lays the foundation for a story of quiet strength, improvisation and transformation.General Email: chat62podcast@gmail.com