Ready To Fight

About Ready To Fight

Ready To Fight Podcast is based on men/women who have military, law enforcement, first responders experience. They have been in tough situations and seen a lot of trauma. But our focus in on how it affected them and how they dealt with the trauma. Where it was leading them dealing with these hardships, but most importantly what led them to Christ. Our focus is on the hope, restoration and ability to change and get off the X. Failure is not fatal but failure to change can be. Them men and women are Christians so buckle up for some great testimonies on what God can do in your life!

Publisher

brkimbrell

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

25 Feb 2025

Latest episode

26 May 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 May 2025

   Full Episode #14 David Vanderpool

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Dave Vanderpool, who shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Wyoming to a successful military career and ultimately a profound transformation through faith. Dave discusses his experiences in the military, including multiple deployments, struggles with identity, and the impact of his faith on his life. He emphasizes the importance of hope in Jesus and the journey of reconciliation with his wife, as well as his role in helping other veterans through the Mighty Oaks program. Takeaways Dave grew up in a working-class family in Wyoming, learning the value of hard work. His military journey was influenced by his older brother's experiences. Faith played a significant role in his upbringing, but he struggled with true understanding. Dave's first deployment in Iraq shaped his perspective on military service. Transitioning to Afghanistan presented new challenges and experiences. He faced an identity crisis, struggling with the pressures of military life and personal choices. A radical encounter with God led to a transformative change in his life. Mighty Oaks provided a platform for healing and helping others. Dave's journey emphasizes the importance of community and support in recovery. He encourages others to find hope in Jesus and to seek help in their struggles. Sound Bites "God is calling me elsewhere." "Where's your hope?" "It's got a shelf life." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:37 Childhood and Family Life 05:10 Military Journey Begins 07:49 First Deployment Experience 10:47 Transitioning Roles in the Military 13:15 Life as a Medic in Iraq 15:46 Second Deployment to Afghanistan 18:31 Struggles and Personal Growth 21:09 Turning Point and Faith Journey 23:48 Radical Change and New Beginnings 30:38 Struggles with Addiction and Identity 33:48 The Journey to Healing and Reconciliation 41:22 Building Trust and Restoring Relationships 44:05 Becoming a Team Leader at Mighty Oaks 52:33 Identity Crisis and Finding Purpose 58:00 Encouragement for Those Struggling

2. 

   19 May 2025

   Full Episode #13 Rollie Dunnuck

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight Podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell speaks with Rollie Dunnuck about his life journey, from growing up in a Christian home in Wyoming to his experiences in the Marine Corps and law enforcement. Rollie shares his struggles with addiction, trauma from war, and the impact of personal loss on his faith and family. He discusses the importance of community support, the challenges of raising a child with special needs, and how he found redemption through his faith in Christ. Rollie's story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of God's love. Takeaways Rollie was introduced to pornography at a young age, leading to a long struggle with addiction. His upbringing in a Christian home was marked by hypocrisy and confusion about faith. Joining the Marine Corps provided structure but also exposed him to trauma and loss. Rollie experienced a significant personal loss that led to a deep sense of anger and bitterness. His journey to faith was catalyzed by attending Mighty Oaks, where he rededicated his life to Christ. Rollie emphasizes the importance of community and support in overcoming personal struggles. He faced challenges in his marriage and family life, particularly with his son's health issues. Rollie's son, Sammy, was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, impacting the family profoundly. The importance of God's promises became a central theme in Rollie's life during difficult times. Rollie believes that Sammy's story will have a lasting legacy beyond his own. Sound Bites "I was introduced to pornography at seven." "I had a bloodlust that could not be filled." "He is the perfect Father." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Life 02:27 Struggles with Faith and Addiction 05:24 Military Journey Begins 07:45 Boot Camp Experiences 10:45 Transition to Reconnaissance 13:25 The Reality of War 15:40 The Aftermath of Combat 18:21 Life After the Marine Corps 21:08 Becoming a Firefighter and Coping with Trauma 23:44 Family Life and Challenges 26:04 Navigating Parenthood and Relationships 38:16 Finding Faith in Darkness 42:15 The Journey of Healing and Growth 47:32 Facing the Diagnosis 52:09 Navigating Grief and Loss 58:07 Legacy and Hope

3. 

   28 Apr 2025

   Full Episode #012 Aaron Whitfield

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrel interviews Aaron Whitfield, who shares his journey from a troubled youth in Mishawaka, Indiana, to serving in the military, facing challenges during deployment, and ultimately finding his purpose in faith and community service. Aaron discusses the struggles of transitioning back to civilian life, the impact of his military experience on his identity, and the importance of reconciliation in his marriage. He emphasizes the power of personal testimony and the grace of God in overcoming life's obstacles, culminating in his calling to become a pastor and serve his community. Takeaways Aaron shares his journey from a troubled youth to a military service member. He discusses the challenges faced during deployment and the impact on his identity. The transition back to civilian life was difficult, leading to feelings of disconnection. Aaron hit rock bottom before turning his life around through faith. He emphasizes the importance of reconciliation in his marriage. Aaron's journey highlights the power of personal testimony in helping others. He believes in the authority of God to overcome struggles and addictions. The conversation touches on the significance of community and support. Aaron's experience illustrates the importance of having a relationship with God. He encourages others to seek redemption and not to live in their past. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:23 Growing Up in Mishawaka 07:05 Military Journey Begins 08:52 Deployment Decisions and Experiences 18:47 Life in Afghanistan 22:52 Transitioning Back Home 25:02 Finding Purpose After Service 30:36 The Search for Brotherhood 34:23 The Impact of Military Culture on Personal Life 36:51 Recognizing Psychological Changes in Law Enforcement 40:52 Hitting Rock Bottom and Finding Redemption 45:02 Rebuilding Relationships and Finding Purpose 50:34 The Power of Testimony and Overcoming Struggles 57:56 Encouragement for the Struggling and the Importance of Community

4. 

   21 Apr 2025

   Full Episode #011 Neal Grogan

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrel interviews Neil Grogan, a former Marine and current aftercare manager at Mighty Oaks Foundation. Neil shares his journey from a Christian upbringing in Texas to joining the Marine Corps, his experiences during deployment, and the challenges he faced with faith, marriage, and mental health. He discusses the impact of September 11th on his decision to serve, the struggles of transitioning back to civilian life, and his battle with alcoholism. Ultimately, Neil emphasizes the importance of faith, hope, and community support in overcoming life's challenges and finding purpose. Takeaways Neil's upbringing in a Christian household laid a strong foundation for his faith. The impact of September 11th significantly influenced Neil's decision to join the Marine Corps. Neil faced challenges in maintaining his faith while navigating friendships outside the church. His experiences in boot camp were a culture shock that tested his resilience. Deployment brought significant challenges, including the loss of a child and the struggle with PTSD. Neil's battle with alcoholism stemmed from unresolved trauma and stress from his military service. The turning point in Neil's life came when he sought help and found faith again. Mighty Oaks Foundation played a crucial role in Neil's recovery and purpose. Neil emphasizes the importance of placing hope in Christ rather than temporary solutions. The journey of healing is ongoing, and community support is vital for recovery. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neil Grogan 01:13 Growing Up in the Grogan Household 03:13 The Journey to the Marine Corps 09:06 Marriage and Early Military Life 11:16 Boot Camp Experience 13:48 First Duty Station and Culture Shock 17:09 Deployment and Its Impact 20:08 Navigating Loss During Deployment 27:15 Reintegration and Relationship Challenges 34:57 The Turning Point: A Moment of Clarity 40:30 The Struggle for Sobriety and Redemption 45:45 A Desperate Decision: The Fight for Life 49:28 Finding Hope: The Power of Faith 53:58 Restoration and Reconciliation: Healing Relationships 01:00:22 Mighty Oaks: A Journey of Transformation 01:07:33 Words of Encouragement: Placing Hope in Christ

5. 

   14 Apr 2025

   Full Episode #010 Louis Rivera

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Luis Rivera, a retired Navy SEAL and director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation. Luis shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Puerto Rico to becoming a Navy veteran and SEAL. He discusses the struggles he faced during his military career, including the challenges of BUD/S training, marriage, and family dynamics. Luis emphasizes the importance of faith, personal growth, and the support of organizations like Mighty Oaks in overcoming life's obstacles. He encourages listeners to seek help and find hope, highlighting the transformative power of community and faith in recovery. Takeaways Luis's journey from Puerto Rico to the Navy. The impact of family dynamics on personal growth. Challenges faced during BUD/S training. The importance of faith in overcoming obstacles. Luis's experiences with marriage and family in the military. The significance of seeking help and support. Mighty Oaks Foundation's role in recovery. The importance of being a student of God's word. Lessons learned from personal struggles and failures. The transformative power of community and faith. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luis Rivera 00:49 Luis's Early Life and Decision to Join the Navy 03:51 Cultural Shock and Boot Camp Experience 07:54 Transitioning to Submarine Service 11:49 First Attempt at BUD/S Training 15:37 Marriage and Personal Challenges 19:09 Returning to BUD/S Training 22:42 Final BUD/S Training and 9/11 Impact 33:12 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Dynamics 34:35 Transitioning to a New Team: Camaraderie and Accountability 35:44 Faith and Its Role in Military Life 36:25 Deployment Experiences and Personal Life Changes 38:16 Navigating Marriage During Military Deployments 40:35 Struggles with Family Relationships and Parenting 41:57 Coping with Loss and Its Effects on Marriage 44:03 Retirement and Transitioning to Civilian Life 46:21 Finding Purpose After Service 48:31 Fatherhood Challenges and Seeking Help 51:21 Mental Health and Seeking Support 54:46 Transformative Experience at Mighty Oaks 58:43 Living Out Faith and Family Values 01:05:14 Empowering Others Through Mighty Oaks

6. 

   7 Apr 2025

   Full Episode #009 Ron Hantz

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight Podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Ron Hantz, a seasoned law enforcement officer with over 30 years of experience. They discuss Ron's upbringing in a law enforcement family, his journey into policing, and the importance of mentorship and training. Ron shares insights on the challenges faced by officers, including addiction and trauma, and emphasizes the significance of faith and community support. He also talks about his company, ProTrain, which provides tactical training for law enforcement agencies across the country. Takeaways Ron Hantz has over 30 years of law enforcement experience. Growing up in a law enforcement family shaped Ron's career path. Mentorship played a crucial role in Ron's development as an officer. Training at the police academy was challenging but necessary. Ron became an expert witness in police use of force cases. Understanding the rapid decision-making required in law enforcement is vital. Ron avoided addiction by making conscious choices early in his career. Coping with trauma is a significant aspect of law enforcement work. Faith and community support have been essential in Ron's life. ProTrain offers comprehensive training programs for law enforcement agencies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ron Hantz 02:10 Growing Up in a Law Enforcement Family 04:47 The Journey into Law Enforcement 06:45 Experiences in the Police Academy 08:15 Career Progression and Specializations 10:34 Becoming an Expert Witness 17:11 Understanding Use of Force 22:17 Avoiding Addiction in Law Enforcement 29:42 Coping with Trauma in Law Enforcement 30:10 Confronting Trauma in Emergency Response 34:45 The Role of Faith in Coping with Trauma 36:02 Building Meaningful Relationships Through Faith 42:52 Transformative Power of Faith in Daily Life 47:01 The Birth of ProTrain: A Mission to Save Lives 52:21 Training for Survival: Preparing Officers for the Streets 56:36 A Call to Action: Finding Hope Through Faith

7. 

   31 Mar 2025

   Full Episode #007 Mike Griffin

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Mike Griffin, a dedicated law enforcement officer with a rich background in military service and undercover operations. Mike shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Oklahoma to serving in the Army National Guard and then transitioning to the Tulsa Police Department. He discusses the complexities of his career, including his experiences in undercover work, the impact of personal relationships, and the challenges faced in law enforcement, especially during turbulent times in American society. The conversation delves into themes of service, personal growth, and the struggles of balancing family life with a demanding career. In this conversation, Mike Griffin shares his profound journey from a place of deep hatred and betrayal to one of redemption and faith. He reflects on the struggles he faced as a police officer during tumultuous times, grappling with feelings of anger towards the silent majority and the media. Through a series of transformative experiences, including a pivotal moment of self-reflection and the support of a community, Mike learns the importance of surrendering to God and embracing a life of faith. He emphasizes the significance of building authentic relationships and supporting one another in the journey of healing and growth. Takeaways Mike Griffin's journey reflects resilience and dedication. His childhood experiences shaped his views on authority. Transitioning from military to law enforcement was a pivotal moment. Undercover work provided both challenges and excitement. Personal relationships played a significant role in his life. The impact of societal changes on law enforcement is profound. Faith became a cornerstone in his personal transformation. Mike's experiences highlight the complexities of police work. He emphasizes the importance of accountability in personal life. The conversation reveals the emotional toll of law enforcement. The burden of hate can lead to self-destruction. Redemption often comes through community support. Self-discovery is a painful but necessary journey. Faithfulness is a core attribute of God. Arrogance can blind us to our need for help. The importance of accountability in personal growth. Surrendering to God leads to true freedom. Building authentic relationships is crucial for healing. Life experiences can reshape our understanding of faith. God's promises remain true despite our failures. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Griffin's Journey 04:17 Childhood Challenges and Family Dynamics 10:03 Military Experience and Transition to Law Enforcement 16:39 Early Days in the Police Academy 21:57 Patrol Officer to Undercover Work 23:49 Marriage and Personal Transformation 28:53 Navigating Early Marriage and Career Changes 29:38 The Impact of Undercover Work on Family Life 35:03 Returning to Tulsa: Balancing Work and Family 36:24 The Chaos of Violent Crime Task Forces 40:41 Confronting Personal Crossroads and Internal Struggles 45:42 The Weight of Hate and the Call for Justice 50:54 Seeking Redemption and Transformation 58:45 The Journey of Redemption 01:01:11 Facing Consequences and Learning Lessons 01:04:01 Understanding Anxiety and Panic Attacks 01:08:15 Empathy Through Experience 01:11:48 Building Community Through Outposts 01:15:47 The Importance of Context in Faith 01:19:08 God's Faithfulness Through Trials 01:22:31 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

8. 

   31 Mar 2025

   Full Episode #008 Brandon Bettis

   Summary In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Brandon Bettis, a former infantry officer and current holistic financial planner. Brandon shares his journey from a conservative childhood in Phoenix, Arizona, to his decision to join the Army, influenced by his father's military background. He discusses his experiences in Officer Candidate School, the challenges of leading troops in combat, and the impact of his military service on his family life. The conversation also touches on Brandon's transition to civilian life and his ongoing commitment to serving veterans through the Mighty Oaks Foundation. In this conversation, Brandon Bettis shares his journey from military life to civilian struggles, including personal and marital challenges. He discusses his spiritual journey, the impact of the Mighty Oaks program, and a transformative reflection walk that led him to submit his life to Jesus. Brandon emphasizes the importance of faith, family dynamics, and the ongoing journey of healing and helping others through his testimony. Takeaways Brandon's childhood was shaped by a conservative upbringing and a strong family bond. His father's military service inspired him to join the Army. Brandon faced challenges in Officer Candidate School but persevered to become an officer. He learned the importance of listening to experienced NCOs as a young leader. Brandon's first deployment was to the Korngal Valley, a high-intensity combat area. He experienced a love-hate relationship with Fort Benning during his training. Brandon's wife, Erin, played a crucial role in supporting him through military life. The couple's early marriage was marked by the challenges of deployment and family life. Brandon reflects on the importance of establishing a relationship with his daughter after returning from deployment. He emphasizes the significance of leadership and camaraderie in the military. Brandon left the Army in 2016 due to fears of being kicked out. He experienced personal struggles and marital challenges during his military service. Brandon's relationship with his wife was strained due to his selfishness and military commitments. He had no relationship with God during his military service and identified as agnostic then atheist. The Mighty Oaks program was a pivotal moment in Brandon's life. A reflection walk led to his submission to Jesus on May 21, 2021. Brandon's journey included confessing sins and navigating marriage challenges post-conversion. His wife and daughters eventually embraced Christianity after his transformation. Brandon emphasizes the importance of mentorship and asking hard questions about faith. He aims to help others by sharing his testimony and experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brandon Bettis 01:37 Childhood and Early Influences 05:45 Military Aspirations and Joining the Army 09:27 Officer Candidate School (OCS) Experience 14:41 Post-OCS Training and Branch Assignment 22:04 Meeting Erin: Love Story in the Military 27:46 The Challenges of Military Family Life 30:16 Leadership in Combat: A New Role 37:37 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 43:31 Personal Struggles and Marital Challenges 47:28 A Journey to Faith and Spirituality 52:49 Finding Purpose: The Mighty Oaks Experience 54:57 Investing in Mental Health 56:18 The Journey to Mighty Oaks 57:59 Faith and Doubt: A Personal Testimony 59:35 The Reflection Walk: A Life-Changing Moment 01:03:12 Life After Surrendering to Jesus 01:05:21 Navigating Challenges in Faith and Family 01:09:50 The Impact of Confession and Forgiveness 01:13:25 Sharing the Gospel: A New Mission 01:20:10 Encouragement for Others on Their Journey

9. 

   25 Mar 2025

   Full Episode #006 Kevin Schroder

   From a United States Marine to retired Texas Police officer.  Facing many situations in his life, that would make him question If I was to die today what would my legacy be?  With that question in mind, this would lead Kevin to really submit his life to Christ and change the path that he was on to a new path that would lead him to become a man of God.  First Christ would restore his marriage and his family, then it would lead him to connect with a Christian based organization that he would become a leader within the organization that now allows him to share his own testimony and point hundreds of men that are struggling to Christ.  He would later find himself a pastor and doing an incredible job allowing Christ to use him in a mighty way.  You wont want to miss this episode.  This is Kevin Schroders Testimony.

10. 

    2 Mar 2025

    Full Episode #005 Justin Goeden

    Justing Goeden from a small town in Nebraska, then later moves to the Big City of New York. Lived in New York when the towers were hit on 911. He can remember sitting in the class at school when this event happened. He knew this was what he wanted to do is go and defend this country. He lands himself in the Marine Corps spend the next 6 years there and deployed 3 times, earns 2 purple hearts and has to get out of the Marine Corps. He finds himself back in the same place as he was in the military but now is in the contractor world working for Black Water. He gets hurt again here and has to finally call this type of work quits, it leads him down a road that he never thought he would go down. After many times of being in and out of Alcohol and Drug addiction classes and trying to get himself clean, he lands in a small town with a stranger living in his basement and trying to get clean and sober. He goes down a long road for the next few month and finds hope and restoration through his faith in Jesus Christ.

11. 

    2 Mar 2025

    Full Episode #004 Brandon Kunath

    The testimony of Brandon Kunath, a man that had a rough, undisciplined childhood, who would find himself in the Marine Corps, on multiple deployments and seems like life has dealt him a great hand. To coming home and almost destroying his home life, military career and finding himself no longer fit to serve. He finds himself in the wounded warrior battalion and left to his own demise and ends up walking into a faith based program that would bring him back to having a relationship with Christ. God can put take a piece of pottery that is broken and put back the pieces into a new design. This is Brandons testimony.

12. 

    1 Mar 2025

    Full Episode #003 Jeremy King

    Jeremy King - An amazing Marine who had it all, climbed to the top, but let life and lifes struggles get in the way and later found himself down at the bottom of the latter. One who led a few hundred marines, led them in combat, led them in training and now finds himself stuffed in a closet and looking a some serious potential legal actions. Looking like there is no way out, and forced to get out of the Marine Corps the place he poured his life into and now they have turned their back on him. This is the story of a man who was at the bottom of the barrel of life, didn't know where to turn and when to a veterans program and there they introduced him again to his Faith in God. He would find that this is the only path that can lead him out of the pit he is in and give him hope and restoration. After loosing his family, his men, his career and so much more to a man who now lives a life of Peace, Hope and a Restored Family all because of Jesus Christ. This is His Testimony.

13. 

    1 Mar 2025

    Full Episode #002 Doug Dalzel

    Doug had a rough Childhood and had faced some serious combat trauma, was addicted to alcohol and almost lost it all. He tried mental health, AA classes and many other methods to try to get clean and sober and get a grip on his PTSD, but it was not till he walked through the door of a program that introduced him to Christ. Once he submitted and realized that there is more to life than alcohol and there is a purpose here on this earth, that Doug would become a christian and not just that but then he turned his life completely around and now helps other veterans and first responders to find that same hope and restoration, and is heavily involved in his local church. Listen to this testimony and see how God can take a man on the verge of suicide and change and order his steps from that day to this day! This is Dougs Testimony

14. 

    25 Feb 2025

    Full Episode #001 Victor Sassoon

    18 Year Special Operations Veteran, multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Someone who has suffered a lot of trauma as a young kid, to then the war and even a suicide attempt, after divorcing 2 wives and just hitting rock bottom. God came on the scene and has changed this mans life forever. He is now serving through a veterans organization helping other veterans to find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Hope you enjoy this mans story don't forget to like, subscribe and hit the bell to be notified when the next episode drops.  @ReadyToFightPodcast  (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCi_VJfUunuktIOgm5qRFR7w) Follow us on instagram @readytofightpodcast and on facebook the same.