In this conversation, Michael 'Rod' Rodríguez shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Southern New Mexico to a distinguished military career and his current mission to create a memorial for the Global War on Terror.
He reflects on the lessons learned from his father, the importance of resilience, and the value of peer support for veterans. Rod emphasizes the need for recognition and storytelling in honoring those who served, and he discusses the emotional connection to the memorial project, which he believes will save lives. Throughout the conversation, he advocates for vulnerability and connection as essential elements of healing and community.
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Takeaway:
➡︎ The concept of 'just do more' has been a guiding principle in Rod's life.
➡︎ Significance of family and the lessons learned from his father.
➡︎ He believes that peer support is crucial for veterans' mental health.
➡︎ How military shaped his understanding of sacrifice and service.
➡︎ Memorial for the GWOT is a way to honor those who served.
➡︎ Importance of storytelling in preserving memories of service members.
➡︎ He believes that recognition and value can prevent veteran suicides.
➡︎ Rod's vulnerability in sharing his story fosters connection with others.
➡︎ He encourages future generations to embrace their experiences and share their stories.
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🔥 Resources
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➡︎ GWOTF: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/
➡︎ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monsterzdad/
➡︎ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-war-on-terror-memorial-foundation/
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Episode 35: Brook Cupps – Shaping Leaders On and Off The Court
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QUESTION - What did you take away from this video?
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This video is NOT sponsored.
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
0:00 Intro
00:04 Family Legacy and Lessons Learned
02:47 The Power of 'Just Do More' Philosophy
06:11 Stories of Valor and Brotherhood
09:06 Navigating Life as a Dual Military Family
12:04 Reflections on Life and Gratitude
15:02 Transforming Pain into Purpose
17:53 The Role of Vulnerability in Connection
20:58 Supporting Veterans through Peer Connections
23:56 Creating a Memorial for the Global War on Terror
28:23 Understanding the Value of Service
30:43 The Complexity of Modern Warfare
32:38 Honoring the Fallen: A Call to Action
35:33 The Role of Design in Memorialization
40:13 The Importance of Storytelling in Memorials
46:40 Emotional Connections and Healing
52:50 Reflections on Legacy and Influence
56:41 Messages for Future Generations
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Passing The Torch episode 76
Full Audio episode with Chapters AND Transcript here -
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1946508/episodes/16747861
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Mentioned:
@gwotmemorialfoundation4409
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Quotes:
"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men”.
– Frederick Douglas
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Keywords
military, veterans, family, fatherhood, resilience, memorial, global war on terror, mental health, storytelling, peer support