Liberty Call Podcast

About Liberty Call Podcast

Liberty Call is where service ends and freedom begins. Hosted a Navy Commander Juan Lucero, this podcast dives deep into the real stories of veterans navigating life after the military. From the discipline of the uniform to the uncertainty of transition, Liberty Call explores what it means to reinvent yourself, find purpose, and embrace freedom in retirement and beyond. Every week, we sit down with service members, retirees, and global adventurers who share their journeys of transformation. You’ll hear from veterans who traded boots for backpacks, found new missions in entrepreneurship, built second careers, or chose the path of world travel and cultural discovery. These conversations highlight the resilience, struggles, humor, and victories that come with carving out a new life after service. ⚓ What you’ll get from Liberty Call: • Honest, unfiltered stories from Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard veterans. • Insights on the transition process: retirement, VA claims, financial planning, and civilian careers. • Global travel inspiration — living abroad, cultural exploration, and adventure travel. • Hard-earned lessons on family, freedom, resilience, and leadership. • Motivation to create your own roadmap after military service. This podcast isn’t just for veterans — it’s for anyone curious about reinvention, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom. Whether you’re active duty planning for retirement, a veteran building your next chapter, or a civilian seeking stories of courage and adventure, Liberty Call gives you a front-row seat to life’s biggest transitions. Juan brings not only decades of Navy experience but also the perspective of someone preparing for his own retirement and global travels with his wife. Together, they aim to show that life after the military isn’t an ending — it’s the beginning of a new mission. 🎧 Join the crew. Subscribe to Liberty Call and discover how veterans are redefining life, freedom, and adventure around the world. #MilitaryRetirement #VeteranStories #LifeAfterService #LibertyCallPodcast #TravelFreedom

Publisher

Juan Lucero

Category

education · leisure · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

27 Aug 2025

Latest episode

2 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Feb 2026

   From the Deckplates to Retirement: A Command Master Chief’s Final Watch aboard USS Abraham Lincoln

   In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, I sit down with Joel “Rod” Rodriguez, a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief who served 31 years and finished his career as the Command Master Chief aboard USS Abraham Lincoln. Rod and I go back to our time at COMHSCWINGPAC, when I was a Lieutenant and he was a Senior Chief. That shared experience sets the tone for a grounded, honest conversation about leadership, legacy, and life after the uniform. We talk candidly about: What truly matters in the final years before retirement Common mistakes Sailors make when transitioning out Leadership lessons from the deckplates to the flag level How to mentally prepare for life after the Navy Advice for those already retired and searching for purpose This episode is packed with real-world wisdom, hard-earned lessons, and straight talk from a Master Chief who’s lived it all—and isn’t sugarcoating a thing. Whether you’re still serving, nearing retirement, or already retired, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

2. 

   2 Jan 2026

   From Navy Ships to Civilian Freedom — The Journey of LCDR Aaron Kastrup (Ret.)

   🎙️ Episode: Liberty Call Podcast 🎖️ Guest: LCDR Aaron Kastrup, USN (Ret.) Today we sit down with retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Aaron Kastrup, a proven leader and veteran who dedicated his career to service, sacrifice, and building warriors. Aaron pulls back the curtain on the realities of Navy life — the wins, the struggles, family challenges, leadership lessons, and the emotional transition into civilian life. This episode delivers straight talk about: Life in the Navy and key milestones in Aaron’s career Leadership under stress and what makes great Sailors succeed Family life, resilience, and the impact of military service at home The emotional and mental side of leaving the service What life after the Navy really looks like Aaron’s advice for active duty, reservists, retirees, and families If you wear the uniform, once wore it, or love someone who does — this conversation will resonate. 🔹 🎧 Listen • Subscribe • Support If you’re enjoying the Liberty Call Podcast, subscribe, leave a review, and share with another veteran or military family. 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LibertyCallPodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@LibertyCallPodcast) 🌎 Follow the journey & travel life after service: https://www.youtube.com/@LibertyCall (https://www.youtube.com/@LibertyCallTravel)s 🔹 🏷️ Keywords / SEO Tags veteran transition, navy retirement, navy officer, leadership, military life, veterans podcast, liberty call, life after military, veteran mental health, navy veterans, us navy leadership, military family, veteran stories

3. 

   27 Dec 2025

   From Sheriff’s Deputy to Navy Chief to Thailand: Ryan Smith on Identity, Transition & Building a New Life

   In this episode of Liberty Call, I sit down with Ryan Smith — a former Sheriff’s Deputy, proud U.S. Navy Reserve Chief Petty Officer, and newly retired law enforcement professional who is about to take on his boldest mission yet: building a brand-new life in Thailand. Ryan opens up about decades of service in uniform, balancing military and law enforcement careers, the emotional weight of transition, identity beyond the badge and anchors, mental health, resilience, family, and why he’s choosing to start a new chapter overseas. This is straight talk. No fluff. Just real perspective from a man who served his community, served his country, and is now redefining what “the next chapter” looks like. 💬 Conversation Highlights • Growing up, joining law enforcement, and rising through the ranks • Serving as a Navy Reserve Chief — leadership, pride, and brotherhood • What retirement really feels like when the uniform comes off • Identity, purpose, and mental health after service • Why Thailand? Lifestyle, peace, and a reset on life • Advice for military and law enforcement preparing to transition • What he wishes people truly understood about veterans and cops 🎯 Why This Matters A lot of people talk about transition like it’s paperwork, checklists, and timelines. It’s not. It’s emotional. It’s psychological. It changes your identity. Ryan breaks it down honestly and powerfully — and if you’re military, law enforcement, a veteran, or family, this conversation hits home. 🎧 Listen. Reflect. Move Forward. If you’re retiring soon, already transitioned, or thinking about your next chapter — this episode gives you perspective, hope, and the confidence to build the life you actually want. 🔗 Resources • Follow Liberty Call • Veteran Crisis Line — Dial 988 then Press 1 • Military & Veteran Resources If this episode helped you: 🔥 Share it with another Veteran or LEO 👍 Subscribe so you don’t miss future stories ⭐ Leave a review to support the mission

4. 

   13 Dec 2025

   The TRICARE Guy Breaks Down Veteran Healthcare — Must-Know Info for Retirees

   In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, I sit down with John Letaw, better known as “The TRICARE Guy.” John has helped thousands of veterans understand TRICARE, especially those living overseas — and he’s written three books on the topic, making him one of the most trusted voices in the military healthcare community. We dive into: How TRICARE Select really works for retirees Why TRICARE overseas is misunderstood The biggest mistakes retirees make How the catastrophic cap protects you What healthcare looks like in places like Thailand and the Philippines Pharmacy reimbursement and medical claims abroad The financial traps nobody warns retirees about How to prepare BEFORE you retire to avoid losing coverage Whether you’re close to retirement, moving overseas, or just want to understand your healthcare benefits, this episode will save you money and stress. 📚 Check out John’s TRICARE books — essential reading for active duty, retirees, and expats. John's Website: https://www.thetricareguy.com If you found value in this episode, share it with a shipmate, drop a comment, and subscribe for more conversations with veterans making an impact. #LibertyCallPodcast #TRICARE #VeteranBenefits #MilitaryRetirement #HealthcareAbroad #Veterans

5. 

   24 Oct 2025

   Scottie: From West Point to the Jungle 🌿

   Scottie shares his story from West Point grad to Army officer, entrepreneur, and plant medicine guide in Colombia. Learn how he built a jungle community focused on healing, resilience, and indigenous wisdom.

6. 

   17 Oct 2025

   From Bronx to Dominican Republic: Navy Officer to Farmer

   Retired Navy officer Rafa Arias shares his journey from the Bronx to the Navy and into farming in the Dominican Republic—finding peace, purpose, and redefining success abroad.

7. 

   10 Oct 2025

   Lexie Tillman — Veteran, Entrepreneur & Expat Life in Mexico

   Veteran Lexie Tillman shares her inspiring story of transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship and expat life in Mexico. From navigating PTSD and chronic pain to founding Booking Wonders and raising her family abroad, Lexie opens up about resilience, community, and creating a better life beyond borders.

8. 

   3 Oct 2025

   Mark Francis — Life After Service in Belize and Ireland

   In this Liberty Call podcast, Juan interviews veteran Mark Francis, who transitioned from military service to building a life in Belize and Ireland. From cattle and Caribbean rhythms to Irish traditions and countryside living, Mark offers valuable insights into navigating cultural differences, embracing new lifestyles, and making the most of expat life. Perfect for veterans considering life abroad or anyone curious about cultural adaptation.

9. 

   26 Sept 2025

   Marco Antonio — From Military Grit to Civilian Greatness

   Marco Antonio shares his journey from uniform to civilian life—covering transition lessons, leadership shifts, and redefining freedom. A conversation every veteran should hear.

10. 

    19 Sept 2025

    Daniel Smith on Military Service and Purpose Beyond Duty

    In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, veteran Daniel Smith shares his powerful journey of life after the military. From the lessons he learned in uniform to the struggles of reintegrating into civilian life, Daniel offers a candid look at the realities many veterans face. He opens up about overcoming transition challenges, managing mental health, and building a new sense of purpose beyond service. His story is a reminder that while leaving the military can be difficult, it can also be the beginning of a meaningful new chapter. Whether you’re a veteran preparing to transition, a military family member, or someone seeking insight into the resilience of those who serve, this conversation offers practical lessons and inspiration.

11. 

    10 Sept 2025

    Retiring Abroad in Ecuador with Navy Veteran Mark Tomlinson

    In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, retired Navy veteran Mark Tunnelimson shares his bold decision to sell everything and retire in Cuenca, Ecuador. We discuss why he chose Ecuador, the cost of living, adjusting to expat life, and advice for veterans looking to build a new chapter abroad.

12. 

    3 Sept 2025

    From Navy to Pattaya: Jim Hestead on Retirement, Visas & Life in Thailand

    What does it really take to retire overseas and start a new life in Thailand? In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, I sit down with Jim Hestead, a retired U.S. veteran who left life in the States behind to settle in Pattaya, Thailand. From navigating visas to budgeting daily expenses, Jim shares a no-nonsense look at what life as an American expat is really like. We talk about: ⚓ His decision to move from the U.S. to Pattaya after military retirement 📜 The type of visa he uses and the requirements to live long-term in Thailand 💵 How he finances life abroad with pensions, benefits, and smart budgeting 🏝️ Adjusting to Thai culture, lifestyle, and the cost of living 🚗 Transportation choices — from cars to motorbikes in Thailand 💡 Advice for veterans considering moving overseas after service Whether you’re a veteran curious about living abroad, a retiree looking at your options, or someone fascinated by expat life in Southeast Asia, Jim’s story offers valuable lessons on freedom, reinvention, and building a new chapter. 🎧 Watch more Liberty Call Podcast episodes here: 👉 Liberty Call Podcast Playlist (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG2MvE9y1NwfLu9mHwfWMT1NAdrDvMg2-) 🌐 Learn more at: 👉 LibertyCallJN.com (https://libertycalljn.com/) #MilitaryRetirement #ExpatLife #ThailandLiving #VeteranStories #LibertyCallPodcast

13. 

    27 Aug 2025

    Retired at 39: Navy Senior Chief Phil Gray's Journey to Global Freedom

    What would you do if you retired at just 39 years old? In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, I sit down with Phil Grayeske, a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief who made the bold choice to step away from uniformed service early and embrace a life of adventure, travel, and freedom. Phil shares his incredible story: ⚓ His path through 20 years in the Navy and the lessons learned as a Senior Chief 🌍 Why he decided to retire at 39 and chart a new course 🧭 The challenges and opportunities of transitioning out of the military ✈️ How travel became his new mission and way of life 💡 Advice for service members thinking about retirement, reinvention, and life beyond the military This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about early retirement, life after service, and chasing freedom on your own terms. Whether you’re active duty preparing for your future, a veteran looking for inspiration, or a traveler at heart, Phil’s story will leave you motivated to redefine what’s possible. 🎧 Watch more Liberty Call Podcast episodes here: 👉 Liberty Call Podcast Playlist (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG2MvE9y1NwfLu9mHwfWMT1NAdrDvMg2-) 🌐 Learn more and connect with me at: 👉 LibertyCallJN.com (https://libertycalljn.com/) ⚓ Subscribe to Liberty Call for more veteran stories, military retirement insights, and global travel inspiration. #MilitaryRetirement #VeteranStories #NavyLife #TravelFreedom #LibertyCallPodcast

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.