#History: American Hero, Colonel Tedesco III shares his experiences as the US Army's 1-37 AR Task Force Commander during the intense 2md battle of Ramadi, Iraq. He discusses the challenges of urban combat, the strategies employed to secure neighborhoods, save lives, and the importance of genuine leadership in high-stress environments.

Colonel Tedesco reflects on his personal journey, the sacrifices made for family, and the ongoing struggles faced by veterans. He offers valuable insights for future leaders, emphasizing the need for authenticity, learning from others, and the importance of support systems for healing after trauma.

Chapters:

00:00 - The Battle for Ramadi: A Commander’s Perspective

13:07 - Leadership in Combat: Personal Experiences and Challenges

30:14 - Lessons for Future Leaders: Insights and Advice

36:57 - Healing and Moving Forward: Support for Veterans

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2026

On Vets And Badges: "We're Alpha Males.. We Don't Ask For Help" -US Army MSG Alberto "Al" Rivera shares his struggle in transitioning to civilian life after retirement from 30 years of active-duty military service. The conversation focuses on the challenges veterans face, including mental health issues, the struggle for identity, and the importance of community support during and after our service. The speakers share personal stories and insights on coping with trauma, the stigma of seeking help, and the need for greater awareness and resources for veterans.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Veterans' Experiences

02:43 - The Impact of Military Service on Identity

04:58 - Challenges of Reintegration into Civilian Life

06:28 - Mental Health and Substance Abuse Issues

08:54 - Understanding PTS and Its Effects

11:27 - The Importance of Community and Support

14:42 - Generational Differences in Seeking Help

16:57 - The Role of Organizations in Veteran Support

18:07 - Final Thoughts and Resources for Veterans

About MSG Rivera:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alb

erto-rivera0321/

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025

In this episode of Vets and Badges, the hosts delve into the complex emotions of anger, trauma, and betrayal experienced by first responders.

Ep 2 of Neuroscience of Self-Mastery explores the brain science behind these emotions, the impact of unresolved trauma on law enforcement, and the importance of mental health and self-mastery in high-stakes environments. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence and support systems within the first responder community to navigate the challenges they face.

Chapters

00:00 - Understanding Anger and Rage in First Responders

03:03 - The Neuroscience of Emotion and Behavior

05:53 - The Impact of Training on Emotional Responses

08:58 - The Ripple Effect of Violence and Anger

11:59 - Betrayal and Its Emotional Consequences

14:41 - Processing Trauma and Emotional Mastery

17:47 - The Depth of Suffering and Empathy

20:08 - Recognizing the Essence of Self

26:15 - Understanding Mental Health Awareness

27:19 - Navigating Trauma in First Responders

29:53 - The Importance of Faith and Mission

31:12 - Metacognition and Self-Awareness

33:16 - The Need for Training in Law Enforcement

34:09 - Prioritizing Mental Health in Law Enforcement

35:48 - The Concept of Brain Health

37:46 - Self-Mastery and Leadership

40:05 - Creating Supportive Communities

42:50 - The Role of Brotherhood in Healing

About Vets And Badges:

Guest: SGT, Edward Buckman, PhD:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-buckman/

Co-Host: Dr. Pamela Seraphine:

https://www.drpamelaseraphine.com/

Host: Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Source, B-Roll:

TMZ, UT Public Safety

Video:

LiveNOW from FOX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38PQTPZnSRw

NBC 6 South Florida

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1xcfLWshH0

Richard French Live

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpmHxn6NIIA

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025