Freedom and Glory takes a different approach in this episode as Bill LuMaye sits down with Liz Morris and her father, Dwight, to tell the story behind the company and its evolution across generations.
Dwight shares how he started the business in 1980 after struggling to find a flag to buy, eventually developing a catalog business from his home. He talks about the early years, the support of his wife, raising his daughters alongside the growing company, and how technology eventually transformed the way the business operated.
Liz shares what it was like growing up around the business, leaving to build her own career, and eventually returning in 2016 with the possibility of taking over. The two discuss the challenges of transitioning a family business from one generation to the next, learning to work together, and separating family life from business.
They also talk about why Liz changed the company's name from Carrot Top Industries to Freedom and Glory, how the rebrand helped better communicate what the company sells, and how Liz has worked to build on her father's foundation while creating something of her own.
The episode closes with Dwight reflecting on Liz's leadership and the importance of stepping back and letting the next generation take ownership. It is ultimately a story about entrepreneurship, family, change, and building a legacy that can continue to evolve.

00:00 The story behind Freedom and Glory
01:00 How Dwight started the business
03:00 Building the company from home
05:00 Growing up around the business
06:00 Balancing family and entrepreneurship
08:00 When Dwight considered passing on the company
10:00 Why Liz initially left the family business
11:00 Liz considers returning
13:00 Dwight knew Liz was the one
14:00 Technology changes the business
16:00 Liz returns to the company
18:00 The challenges of taking over
20:00 Learning to work together
22:00 Separating family and business
23:00 Why Carrot Top became Freedom and Glory
25:00 The reason behind the name change
27:00 Liz's vision for the future
29:00 Dwight reflects on Liz's leadership
31:00 The response to the rebrand
33:00 Dwight's advice for Liz
34:00 Celebrating the family's story
36:00 Dwight's perspective on letting go
38:00 The legacy continues

Hosts Liz and Bill interview Dr. Lance Armstrong, a Cocoa Beach chiropractor for nearly 30 years and former Air Force B-52 pilot. He recounts being inspired to fly after seeing F-4s take off, describes B-52 operations, crew coordination, and a harsh landing that injured him, leading him to seek chiropractic care despite warnings. After congressional budget cuts ended his flying career, he quickly enrolled at Palmer College of Chiropractic and returned home to buy Cocoa Beach’s oldest chiropractic practice, later volunteering with law enforcement, first responders, and treating hundreds of homeless veterans through Stand Down events. Armstrong also advocates for military chiropractic care, discusses the Patriot Project, and shares his leadership in Rolling Thunder Florida Chapter One, focused on POW/MIA awareness, family history tied to a WWII missing relative, and the meaning of the Strategic Air Command flag.

00:00 Show Introduction
00:27 Meet Dr Armstrong
01:16 Chiropractic Practice Today
01:56 Inspired To Fly
04:03 B-52 Training Path
06:35 Low Level Missions
07:43 Crew Coordination
09:37 Hard Landing Injury
12:23 Discovering Chiropractic
15:55 Budget Cuts Phone Call
17:26 Chiropractic School Journey
19:21 Building Local Practice
20:16 Serving First Responders
21:13 Stand Down Veterans Care
23:59 Teaching Student Doctors
26:24 Military Chiropractic Advocacy
31:09 Fighter Pilot Neck Strain
33:35 Rolling Thunder Origins
36:19 Florida Chapter Mission
37:15 B-17 Recovery Story
39:00 Riding And Patches
40:18 Andersonville POW Museum
43:13 POW Survival Stories
46:26 POW MIA Flag Legacy
48:02 Healthcare And Hobbies
50:35 Flags In Schools
52:31 SAC Flag And Cold War
58:27 Road Trips And Farewell

When Americans think about the founding of the United States, most minds immediately go to Boston, Philadelphia, Lexington, and Concord. But what if one of the most important chapters of the American Revolution happened right here in North Carolina?

In this episode of Tales of American Spirit, host Liz Morris welcomes Kelly Arnold from the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough to explore the remarkable role Hillsborough played in the movement toward American independence. Together they uncover the story of the Third Provincial Congress, the Regulator Movement, and the pivotal decisions made in Hillsborough during the summer of 1775 that helped lay the groundwork for a new nation.

From corrupt colonial officials and frustrated frontier farmers to revolutionary leaders, military preparations, and the earliest steps toward self-government, this conversation reveals why Hillsborough deserves a much larger place in America's founding story.

00:00 – Introduction to Freedom & Glory
01:00 – Why Hillsborough's story matters during America's 250th anniversary
02:00 – What Hillsborough looked like in the 1770s
04:00 – Why Hillsborough became a center of colonial power
08:00 – Life in colonial North Carolina
09:00 – What was happening across the American colonies?
11:00 – How news traveled before modern communication
13:00 – Who were the Regulators?
15:00 – Taxes, corruption, and colonial frustration
17:00 – Why the Regulators were more complicated than history suggests
20:00 – Loyalists, revolutionaries, and competing visions for America
24:00 – What was the Third Provincial Congress?
25:00 – Why Hillsborough was chosen for the meeting
27:00 – The first real steps toward independence
29:00 – Military districts, currency, and preparing for self-government
32:00 – The influential leaders gathered in Hillsborough
36:00 – The Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge
38:00 – How North Carolina moved toward independence
40:00 – Why Hillsborough's role is often overlooked
42:00 – Exploring Historic Hillsborough today
43:00 – Outlandish Hillsborough Scottish Festival and Outlander connections
45:00 – Flags of Change: The Society of the Cincinnati
47:00 – George Washington, Cincinnatus, and revolutionary ideals
50:00 – The Society's mission and legacy today
54:00 – Final thoughts and closing

Rick Webb shares how his father, backed by his mother’s support, built Waco from one locomotive and eight team members into a diversified supply chain services company operating 47 short line railroads and serving 3,500+ customers across North America and Australia. He explains how an evergreen 1983 contract with a Louisiana paper mill—cancelable with 30 days’ notice—taught Waco to differentiate through daily customer service rather than assets, and how listening to customers drove pivots from railcar repair to industrial switching, terminals, logistics, and broader supply chain solutions. Webb emphasizes valuing customers and team members through tools, training, safety, and culture, including Waco University’s servant-leadership approach, praise-before-discipline mindset, and Dan Smith’s “no asshole rule,” while reflecting on tough times like near-missed payrolls and the 2008–2010 downturn.

00:00 Meet Rick Webb
01:00 Family Leap of Faith
02:39 First Customer Forever
05:46 Customer First DNA
08:49 Building Team Culture
11:35 Pivoting With Customers
13:06 Bar Lessons on Service
15:58 Surviving Tight Times
17:47 Supply Chain Value Engine
22:47 Terminal Expansion Hard Lesson
25:56 Where Value Is Made
26:48 No Plan Just Customers
28:43 Waco U Culture Training
31:02 Flip The Org Chart
34:05 Trust Tools And Praise
37:38 All In For The Future
40:28 Letting Go As CEO
42:25 No Asshole Rule
45:25 Closing Thanks And Laughs

Anna Brakefield of Redland Cotton explains how she and her father, cotton farmer Mark Yeager, built a family-run, vertically integrated business making American-made sheets, towels, quilts, blankets, and some apparel from cotton grown on their Moulton, Alabama farm, with cut-and-sew facilities in Alabama and Mississippi. She shares her path from Auburn to advertising in New York and Nashville before returning in 2015 to help launch the first sheet lines in 2016, inspired by heirloom “Madeline Gray” sheets and developed with Cotton Incorporated and Hamrick Mills. The conversation covers early direct-to-consumer traction driven by behind-the-scenes social media and events, the mission to support U.S. cotton and textile manufacturing, and major supply-chain setbacks as mills and finishers closed, including the loss of the last wide rotary screen printer, prompting pivots to new finishing and print options. Anna closes with advice to start selling quickly, learn by doing, and pivot.

00:00 Meet Anna Brakefield
01:23 Farm to Home Textiles
02:34 Why Make Sheets
04:18 Anna Returns Home
07:16 Heirloom Sheet Inspiration
11:03 Launching and Early Sales
17:17 American Made Mission
22:40 Supply Chain Setbacks
29:38 Future of US Cotton
32:31 Where to Buy Redland
33:31 Advice for Entrepreneurs
35:29 Closing Thoughts

Holly Higgins, a Gold Star mother, shares the story of her son Daniel, a 22-year-old U.S. Air Force explosive ordnance disposal technician killed in Afghanistan in October 2010, and explains how years of mourning led her to use storytelling—on stages, in workshops with Lt. Col. Scott Mann, and in a widely viewed TEDx talk—to help veterans, Gold Star families, first responders, and others find healing and meaning. She describes Danny’s character, her struggle to support his decision to join the military and serve as EOD, and the day her family learned of his death. Holly also recounts a powerful symbol: the American flags Danny strapped to his chest and back on missions to carry the weight of love for his family and country, and why she continues telling his stories so they endure beyond names and memorials.

00:00 Meet Holly Higgins
00:51 Service After Loss
03:52 Ready To Share
06:54 Who Danny Was
11:38 Letting Him Serve
16:21 Learning EOD Reality
19:24 The Day Danny Died
25:04 Healing Through Story
29:27 Beyond Danny's Story
30:50 Healing Through Stories
32:07 Finding Words in Public
35:45 Imposter Syndrome and Impact
37:05 Tears Are Not Apologies
38:53 How to Reach Holly
40:30 Trauma Dumping vs Craft
42:43 Danny’s Gifts and Faith
47:55 Flags of Change Story
48:39 The Flag Over His Heart
55:12 Legacy Names and Stories
58:35 Final Thanks and Call

Hosts Liz Morris and Bill LuMaye interview Kelly C. Hyke, owner of Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield, South Dakota, who spent 18 years in law enforcement before switching to mortuary science and buying the funeral home with his wife Bonnie in 2015. Kelly explains how flying American and service flags began as a simple thank-you—especially to veterans—and grew into a widely noticed community tradition, including honoring law enforcement, fire, EMS, and organ donors, and adding U.S. and state flags inside the chapel. He describes his process for veteran services and how the flags prompt healing conversations and public support. In the “Flags of Change” segment, Heather discusses the Earth Day flag, its Apollo “Blue Marble” imagery, its origins with John McConnell and Senator Gaylord Nelson, and how the symbol helped rally environmental action leading to the EPA.

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
01:27 From Police to Funeral Director
05:30 Compassion in Two Callings
07:49 Coping With Grief Daily
10:27 Why Fly the Flag
12:28 Veteran Honors and Rituals
15:14 Families Reactions and Healing
18:38 Expanding Flags for Service
20:32 Organ Donor Flag Added
23:00 Bringing Flags Into Chapel
25:11 Handling Criticism and Values
26:51 Small Town Tradition Spreads
31:18 Lessons and Advice to Others
34:08 Wife Support and Future Plans
35:56 Closing Thanks and 250th Flag
37:47 Flags of Change Earth Day Flag
38:33 Earth Flag Origins Blue Marble
39:58 Earth Day Movement Impact
41:27 Why Earth Flag Isnt Common
42:50 New Space Images Unite Us
44:20 Final Sign Off

On Freedom and Glory: Tales of American Spirit, hosts Liz Morris and Bill LuMaye talk with John Newberry and Tom Vols, co-founders of Gopher, a community-driven gig marketplace sparked by a golf course moment and built to bring fairness and transparency to local delivery and services. They explain how users post what they need and set what they want the worker to earn, while Gopher adds a small platform fee, and workers can accept, ignore, or counteroffer with instant payment after mutual ratings. The conversation covers categories like delivery, moving, junk removal, rides, and age-restricted items with ID safeguards; worker verification tiers (identity, background checks, driving record, licensed/bonded/insured); marketplace “chicken-and-egg” challenges; product pivots to improve UX; organic growth centered in Raleigh/Wake County; fundraising needs; and plans for expansion plus business-focused features through Gopher Connect and future merchant integration.

00:00 Worker First Pricing
00:08 Meet the Gopher Founders
01:10 Golf Course Origin Story
02:30 How the App Works
04:28 Categories and Use Cases
05:25 Solving the Marketplace Chicken Egg
11:31 Fair Pay Mission
14:35 Pricing Model Breakdown
16:04 Why Lead Gen Platforms Fail
18:04 Trust Safety and Worker Levels
23:06 Growth Timeline and Metrics
28:48 Age Restricted Deliveries
29:52 Small Decisions Big Impact
30:29 Early Pivots and Partners
31:30 Hard Calls With Developers
32:40 Staying Platform Focused
34:37 Co-Founder Chemistry and Trust
36:52 Making Tech Invisible
38:04 Values Over Ego
40:45 Marketplace Vision and Leadership
43:31 Tribute to Michael Yori
47:32 Fundraising and Investor Reality
51:44 How Gopher Works in Practice
55:25 Beating Delivery App Fees
57:04 Expansion Plans and Wrap-Up

Join Liz Morris and Bill Lume as they speak with Turquoise Parker, an educator and community leader from Durham, North Carolina. Turquoise shares the inspiring story of Bull City Food Raiser, a grassroots effort she founded to combat food insecurity among students. Learn about the exponential growth of the initiative, from helping one family to supporting thousands of children across multiple schools. Tune in for insights into the importance of relationships, community support, and the impact of small actions. The episode also features a segment on the historical significance of the 36-star US flag, related to the end of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln's presidency.

00:00 Introduction to Freedom and Glory Tales
00:29 Meet Turquoise Parker: Educator and Community Leader
01:37 The Birth of Bull City Food Raiser
02:34 Growing Impact: From One Family to Thousands
05:26 Challenges and Community Support
07:45 Building Relationships with Students
18:14 Logistics of a Massive Operation
26:38 Future Goals and Advocacy
29:56 Ensuring Families Have What They Need
32:19 Recognition and Awards
36:06 Community Involvement and Impact
41:06 Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
47:34 Historical Significance of the 36-Star US Flag
53:32 Conclusion and Call to Action

Follow Turquoise on social media
https://www.facebook.com/share/17AokVFtBf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/ohgorgeous1?igsh=ZGh1eHZnamJ6bGg1

Want to donate?
PayPal: PayPal: https://paypal.me/TGDFoundation
Venmo: @TGregDoucette-Foundation
All funds received through these apps will be earmarked for the Bull City Foodraiser.

Join Liz Morris and Bill LuMaye on this episode of 'Freedom and Glory: Tales of American Spirit,' as they explore the inspiring journey of Carrot Top Industries' transformation into Freedom and Glory. Learn about their mission to bring meaningful change through flag sales and community impact. Special guest Eric Henry, president of TS Designs, shares his powerful story of resilience in the textile industry post-NAFTA, the importance of sustainability, and the innovative steps his company is taking in the apparel industry. Get an inside look at the challenges of globalization, the impact of NAFTA on American jobs, and the ongoing battle for sustainable and local manufacturing.

00:00 Introduction to Freedom and Glory
00:28 The Story Behind the Name Change
02:14 Customer Stories and Impact
03:42 Liz's Personal Journey and Philosophy
06:49 Introducing Eric Henry of TS Designs
07:50 The Impact of NAFTA on American Manufacturing
12:13 Challenges and Strategies in Sustainable Business
21:21 Transparency and the Dirt to Shirt Program
27:31 The Issue of Microplastics
30:36 The Roots of Sustainability
31:04 Early Influences and Organic Gardening
31:45 Industrial Agriculture and Its Impact
33:15 Expanding Sustainable Practices
33:44 Community and Business Resilience
36:20 Piedmont Agrarian Collaborative
37:28 Local Economic Impact and Multiplier Effect
39:08 Challenges of Globalization and COVID-19
42:37 Reviving Local Manufacturing
47:05 Innovations in Sustainable Apparel
52:44 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
55:07 Policy and Future Directions
59:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dr. Richard Bedlack: Revolutionizing ALS Treatment with Science, Hope, and Style

Join us in this inspiring episode featuring Dr. Rick Bedlack, a renowned neurologist, researcher, and leader of the Duke ALS Clinic. Known for his colorful suits and hopeful approach, Dr. Bedlack shares his journey from his childhood fascination with the brain to his transformative work in ALS research. Discover the story behind his favorite purple jacket, his unique approach to patient care, the importance of hope in medicine, and the innovative research projects he is leading to conquer ALS. This is an episode filled with inspiration, groundbreaking science, and a look into the future of ALS treatment.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Richard Bedlack
00:46 Dr. Bedlack's Unique Background
02:27 The Story Behind the Jacket
05:31 Understanding ALS
06:42 A Hopeful Approach to ALS
08:53 The Often Awesome Army
11:30 The Importance of Hope in Medicine
15:34 Challenges and Changes in Medical Practice
24:13 Exploring ALS Outliers and Gut Microbiome
24:58 Genetic Discoveries in ALS Reversals
26:22 Replication of ALS Reversals Trials
27:19 Challenges in Traditional ALS Trials
28:36 Spirituality and Miraculous Recoveries
32:06 ALS Untangled: Partnering with Patients
36:24 Fundraising and Endowments for ALS Research
41:34 Vision for the Future of ALS Treatment
43:37 Fashion and Personal Stories

Join us for an emotional and inspiring episode featuring Amy Dozier from the Woody Williams Foundation. Amy shares her personal journey of loss, being a Gold Star spouse, and her mission to honor her husband's legacy through supporting military families. She discusses the challenges and healing processes Gold Star families face, the importance of connection and remembrance, and her involvement with various military nonprofits. This episode also includes insights from Stefanie on the history and significance of Gold Star and Blue Star service flags, showcasing powerful symbols of sacrifice and service. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation on finding purpose through grief and the community's role in supporting those who serve.

00:00 Introduction to Amy Dozier and Her Background
01:33 Becoming a Gold Star Spouse
04:23 The Challenges of Grief and Family Dynamics
08:40 Finding Support and Purpose
12:51 Joining the Woody Williams Foundation
13:10 The Mission of the Woody Williams Foundation
18:32 The Importance of Connection and Remembrance
22:20 Changing Landscape of War and Survivor Support
23:16 Connecting with Grateful Americans
24:08 Horse Soldier Bourbon and the Be Cowboy Award
30:20 The Importance of Gratitude and Self-Care
32:41 Words of Wisdom on Grief and Hope
35:26 Woody Williams Foundation and Community Support
36:20 Flags of Change: The Story Behind Service Flags

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lindsay Roselle of Vortic Watch Company, as she shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey and how she’s transforming antique US pocket watches into modern timepieces. Lindsay shares her diverse background in business development and entrepreneurship, the challenges of managing a business while being a mother, and stepping in as interim CEO after her partner experienced a medical emergency. Additionally, we talk to Jeff Green, Carrot-Tops business development manager, about the profound impact of breast cancer on his family and the importance of awareness and support. Learn about Vortec's commitment to American craftsmanship and the larger implications of American-made products in today's economy.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:48 Lindsay's Entrepreneurial Journey
02:00 Balancing Motherhood and Business
04:05 RT's Medical Emergency
08:09 Stepping in as Interim CEO
08:52 The Story of Vortec Watch Company
21:15 American Craftsmanship and Challenges
27:57 The Art of Watchmaking: Skills and Challenges
29:14 Advocating for Trade Schools and Skilled Labor
30:14 In-House Manufacturing and Clean Room Assembly
31:15 Partnerships and Veteran Training Initiatives
32:04 The Importance of Trade Schools in the AI Era
33:25 Future of Vortec: Balancing Tradition and Modernity
35:58 Challenges in American Watch Manufacturing
41:59 Consumer Choices and American Craftsmanship
47:55 Flags of Change: Breast Cancer Awareness

In this episode, we are joined by Kirk Higgins, Vice President of Content at the Bill of Rights Institute, to discuss the importance of civic education in shaping the next generation of informed and engaged citizens. Kirk shares insights about the institute's mission, the challenges of teaching civics in today's polarized political climate, and the importance of students understanding their rights and responsibilities. Later, Kirk delves into the history and significance of the Star-Spangled Banner, offering fascinating details about its origins and its enduring symbolic power. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about civic engagement, education, and American history.

00:00 Introduction to Constitution Day and Guest Kirk Higgins
00:47 Kirk Higgins' Background and Role at the Bill of Rights Institute
01:17 The Mission and Importance of the Bill of Rights Institute
02:59 Challenges in Teaching Civics and History
04:32 Engaging Students in Civics Education
06:23 Broader Educational Programs and Impact
11:46 Funding and Support for the Bill of Rights Institute
14:24 Measuring Impact and Growth
22:15 Flag of Change Segment: The Star-Spangled Banner
24:22 Historical Significance of the Star-Spangled Banner
31:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us as we talk with Debbie Taylor, a passionate business teacher at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. With a rich background as a former CFO, Debbie brings real-world business experience into the classroom, teaching students to think critically and innovate like entrepreneurs. She discusses her journey from the business world to education, the unique programs at Cardinal Gibbons, and the essentials of incorporating real-life experience into the teaching process. Hear about her creative methods to keep students engaged and the impact of AI on education. Learn how she aims to prepare students for competitive business schools and future careers with hands-on learning and practical experience.

00:00 Introduction to Debbie Taylor
00:53 Debbie's Career Journey
02:18 Teaching at Cardinal Gibbons
02:57 Challenges in Business Education
05:52 Innovative Teaching Methods
09:00 Real-World Business Applications
19:19 Embracing AI in Education
24:58 Future Goals and Aspirations
30:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us for a special July episode as we delve into Revolutionary War history with Kathi and Jim Turner, owners of the Rising Eagle Public House in Melrose, Massachusetts. Discover how this couple's passion for American history inspired their unique restaurant, rooted in the rich history of Malden's role in the fight for independence. Learn about their journey from the seafood business to owning multiple restaurants, and hear fascinating stories about John Adams, the Malden instructions, and the legacy of the American Revolution. This engaging conversation is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the importance of preserving local heritage.

00:00 Introduction to Kathi and Jim Turner
00:55 Journey into the Restaurant Business
02:58 The Birth of Rising Eagle Public House
04:28 Historical Significance of Malden and Public Houses
08:14 The Role of Malden in the Fight for Independence
17:37 The Malden Instructions and John Adams
25:09 Celebrating American History at Rising Eagle
27:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In today's episode of Freedom and Glory, we spotlight Victor Lytvinenko, co-founder of Raleigh Denim Workshop in North Carolina. Victor shares his journey from his family's move from Ukraine to his entrepreneurial spirit, leading to the creation of Raleigh Denim. He delves into his passion for craftsmanship, his experience in various crafts such as furniture making and cooking, and the inspiration behind starting his denim company. Victor talks about the challenges of maintaining quality, scaling the business sustainably, and his belief in producing goods that are authentic and rooted in local tradition. This episode is a deep dive into the philosophy and meticulous process behind Raleigh Denim, and the story of how Victor and his team are redefining American-made products.

00:00 Spotlight on American Craftsmanship
00:51 Victor's Journey to North Carolina
01:40 High School Sweethearts
02:33 The Birth of Raleigh Denim Workshop
02:48 Craftsmanship and Passion
03:22 From Cooking to Denim
04:42 The Influence of Denim Industry Veterans
06:41 The Pursuit of Perfection
08:34 The American Dream and Craftsmanship
10:07 Scaling Handmade Jeans
14:00 Finding the Right People
18:13 Revival of Sewing and Crafting
19:02 The Passion Behind the Craft
19:24 Navigating Business Challenges
21:52 Adapting to Industry Changes
24:10 Leading with Transparency
26:58 Innovative Denim Creations
29:38 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
31:29 Balancing Passion and Business
33:15 How to Get Your Own Pair
33:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Join us in this special Memorial Day episode as we speak with four distinguished veterans who share their unique ways of celebrating and remembering the sacrifices of their comrades. Meet Ed, a Marine and Army Reserve veteran, and Chuck, a retired member of the 82nd Airborne Division, as they recount their journeys and the impact of their service. The episode also highlights the impactful work of Combat Warriors, a dedicated organization supporting combat veterans through various events like hunting and fishing. Hear from Wayne and Bill, who share the genesis and evolution of Combat Warriors and the emotional and financial support it provides to veterans. Discover how you can contribute to this noble cause and make a difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our freedom.

00:00 Introduction and Memorial Day Tribute
01:24 Meet Ed: A Marine and Army Veteran
02:28 Ed's Military Journey and Reflections
04:22 Challenges and Brotherhood in Iraq
10:41 Memorial Day Significance and Reflections
13:29 Meet Chuck: Army Veteran and Combat Warriors Board Member
16:08 Chuck's Military Background and Deployments
20:01 Answering the Call: Life in the 82nd Airborne
20:39 Defining Heroes: A Humble Perspective
21:34 Memorial Day Reflections
24:59 Introducing Combat Warriors
26:54 The Evolution of Combat Warriors
33:18 Supporting Warriors and Their Families
36:15 Funding and Volunteer Efforts
40:53 Memorial Day: Honoring the Fallen
43:39 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Donate Today https://www.combatwarriorsinc.org/

In this episode, we sit down with Neelesh Patel, president of Net Friends, an IT services company in Durham, North Carolina. Neelesh recounts his incredible journey through the dot-com bubble, the 2008 recession, and his path into entrepreneurship and leadership. Raised by immigrant parents, Neelesh learned valuable life lessons while working in his family's hotel business. He also shares pivotal moments such as transitioning from potential career paths, a transformative backpacking trip to Spain, and the serendipitous events that led him to the IT industry. Neelesh discusses the founding and eventual sale of his companies, the mental health challenges faced by his team, and the profound impact of fostering a service-oriented culture. Join us for an inspiring story of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of helping others.

00:00 Introduction to Neelesh Patel
00:57 Early Life and Family Background
02:34 Formative Years and First Encounter with Technology
04:31 Career Aspirations and College Struggles
07:20 Transition to IT and Early Career
10:32 Journey to San Francisco and First Job
13:18 Starting Miny Networks
18:57 Expansion and New Ventures
20:49 The Costa Rica Venture
22:48 Challenges and Mental Health
23:48 Returning to North Carolina
25:35 Joining Net Friends
26:13 Net Friends' Mission and Services
27:33 Cybersecurity Insights
29:53 Mental Health Initiatives at Net Friends
36:09 Redefining Success
40:04 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Join us as we dive into the inspiring life of Shawn Roser Warren, an interior decorator and non-profit volunteer who's spent decades improving her community and honoring veterans. Sean shares her extensive work in various non-profit organizations, detailing how she and her late husband, Kit, have launched impactful projects like the Grave Marker Project and Hometown Hero Banners. Sean reflects on her journey, from renovating buildings to supporting the local SPCA and the American Legion, illustrating her unwavering commitment to service. This episode encapsulates love, dedication, and the power of community support in honoring those who have served.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:38 Shawn's Journey in Non-Profit Work
04:27 Kit's Story and Legacy
08:12 Community Projects and Impact
17:02 Challenges and Community Support
19:25 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Want to get involved or donate? You can send donations to this address:

The Kitt Warren Community Fund
5835 Cuyler-Lincklaen Road
DeRuyter New York 13052

Join hosts Liz Morris and Bill LuMaye in a captivating interview with 99-year-old WWII veteran Dorma Holt from Burlington, North Carolina. Drafted in 1944, Holt's service includes participating in the Battle of the Bulge and liberating a concentration camp. After the war, he led a successful life as a businessman and entrepreneur. Holt shares his experiences, from growing up on a self-sufficient farm to witnessing extraordinary changes in communication and technology. Additionally, the episode highlights the invaluable services provided by Alamance County Veteran Services and ends with an announcement of an upcoming interview with veteran advocate Shawn Roser-Warren.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
02:57 Mr. Holt's Early Life and Military Service
05:21 Experiences in World War II
10:18 Post-War Life and Reflections
19:29 Mr. Holt's Wisdom and Values
23:48 Conclusion and Special Segment
25:59 Upcoming Episode Preview

In this episode, Dwight Morris, Carrot-Top Founder shares his inspiring journey from being a hospital administrator to starting and successfully running his own flag business. Born and raised in the District of Columbia, Dwight moved to Chicago for work before deciding to start his own business, driven by a desire to control his ethics and the quality of service. Starting from his home and initially facing significant challenges, Dwight managed to expand his business over time. He attributes his success to persistence, support from his wife, and a keen entrepreneurial spirit. Dwight discusses the importance of treating employees well, the competitive nature he inherited from his athletic background, and the legacy he built that is now being carried on by his daughter, Liz. The episode emphasizes the values of resilience, family support, and the enduring opportunities available in America for those willing to take risks and innovate.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:38 Starting a Business from Scratch
03:44 Challenges and Early Failures
04:29 Finding Success and Growth
07:58 The Drive Behind the Business
09:22 Family Support and Legacy
18:50 Disrupting the Industry
21:32 Reflections on the American Dream
23:19 Continuing the Legacy
25:30 Conclusion and Takeaways
28:34 Preview of Next Episode

Stories of Perseverance and the American Spirit

Join Liz and Bill as they launch their exciting new podcast dedicated to celebrating the American Spirit and Dream. This series features interviews with diverse guests whose stories highlight our nation's core values of perseverance, determination, and hope. From the inspiring neighbor next door to historical heroes like those at the Battle of the Bulge, these tales aim to motivate and reignite the drive to make a difference in our own lives. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this podcast to spread these powerful stories of resilience and courage.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:35 The Essence of the American Spirit
01:02 Inspiring Stories from Everyday Heroes
01:11 How to Follow and Support Us