Zero Dark Thirsty

About Zero Dark Thirsty

Zero Dark Thirsty is a veteran-led podcast and platform built for the military connected community who refuse to fade quietly into the background. We talk real transition. Real leadership. Real life after service. From E7–E9 senior enlisted navigating identity shifts, to veterans building second careers, military spouses holding it all together, and leaders calling out broken systems, this channel is where honest conversations happen without filters. Expect: Unfiltered conversations with veterans, spouses, and industry leaders Career, leadership, and transition strategies that actually work Hard truths about toxic leadership, retaliation, and systems that fail people Humor, accountability, and community over buzzwords Segments built for every stage of the military journey If you believe rank ends but leadership does not, you are in the right place. Subscribe, pull up a chair, and stay thirsty for growth, truth, and better outcomes for our people. Welcome to Zero Dark Thirsty. #ZeroDarkThirsty #MilitaryTransition #SkillBridge #VeteranSupport #HealthcareRecruitment #VeteranCareers #E5 #PostMilitaryLife #VeteranMentorship

Publisher

Delaina

Category

business · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

31 Dec 2025

Latest episode

2 Mar 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Mar 2026

   Boots2Boo'd Up with Kate Perez

   In this episode, veteran Kate shares her transition journey from active duty to civilian life, highlighting the emotional, social, and professional challenges faced. She discusses the importance of community, finding purpose, and the role of supportive partners during transition. Connect with Irina (https://www.linkedin.com/in/irina-burke/) and Delaina (https://www.linkedin.com/in/delainamorse/)

2. 

   7 Feb 2026

   Field Graders Gone Wild with George Markert

   🎙️ Field Graders Gone Wild | Zero Dark Thirsty In this episode, Delaina (https://www.linkedin.com/in/delainamorse/) sits down with George Markert (https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-markert/), a Veteran navigating the transition from military service to civilian life and stepping into public leadership as a candidate for the United States Senate. George shares what the transition really looks like after the uniform comes off, including the identity shift many Veterans face and the challenge of finding a new mission. Together, they unpack why networking matters more than most service members realize, how community support plays a critical role in post-service success, and what it takes to move from military leadership into elected office. This conversation goes beyond politics. It’s about purpose, continued service, and why Veterans belong in positions of influence at every level of government. George walks through the practical steps he took to run for office, the mindset shift required, and why Veteran voices are essential in shaping the future of our communities and country. If you’re a Veteran considering public service, exploring your next chapter, or looking for a meaningful way to keep serving, this episode delivers real insight without the filter. Learn George's journey and help support here: George Markert | Warrior. Patriot. Leader. (https://markertforsenate.com/) 📌 Field Graders Gone Wild Where Senior Leaders Rewrite Their Next Chapter

3. 

   3 Feb 2026

   SR2SR with Aaron Kelly

   Military to Civilian Transition | SR2SR with Aaron Kelly (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronkelly112/) | Zero Dark Thirsty Transitioning from military service to civilian life is rarely a straight line, especially for senior leaders. In this episode of SR2SR (Senior Rank to Senior Role) on Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina is joined by hosts Tony and Pedro for an honest conversation with Aaron Kelly, a veteran who shares real-world insight into what the transition actually looks like once the uniform comes off. Aaron walks through his personal journey from military service into the civilian workforce, highlighting the challenges veterans face when adapting to new environments, expectations, and cultures. The conversation explores why humility matters in new roles, how networking plays a critical role in long-term success, and why starting the transition process early can change outcomes. This episode also dives into: • Cultural differences between military and civilian workplaces • Learning to navigate interviews without rank or title • The importance of family support during transition • Adjusting to civilian time off and work-life balance • Lessons learned the hard way and what Aaron would do differently If you’re a senior enlisted leader, preparing to transition, already navigating civilian life, or supporting veterans through the process, this episode offers perspective, honesty, and practical takeaways. 🎙️ SR2SR | Zero Dark Thirsty 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, transition, and life after service #SR2SR #ZeroDarkThirsty #MilitaryTransition #VeteranLeadership #LifeAfterService #SeniorEnlisted #Veterans #LeadershipAfterService

4. 

   2 Feb 2026

   Boots2Boo'd Up with Linda Mosquera

   25 years. Two careers. One marriage. 💙⚓💍 Linda Mosquera opens up about life as a Navy Sailor, navigating a mil-to-mil marriage, and what it really takes to grow together through decades of service. From communication and sacrifice to transition, community, and resilience, this conversation is a powerful reminder that military marriages aren’t built on perfection. They’re built on teamwork. If you’re in a military relationship, transitioning out, or supporting someone who is, this one hits home. Celebrate the milestones. Lean on your community. Keep choosing each other.

5. 

   28 Jan 2026

   Ed Hoc Report with Samantha Perrino

   Education should adapt to the military lifestyle, not the other way around. In this episode of Ed-Hoc Report, a Zero Dark Thirsty education resource segment, host Delaina Morse sits down with Samantha Perrino from Western Governors University (WGU) to break down education options designed specifically for service members, Veterans, and military families. Samantha shares her background in higher education and her role leading WGU’s Virtual Military Education Resource Center (V-MERC), a centralized support system built to help military-affiliated students navigate enrollment, benefits, and long-term success. The conversation highlights how flexible, online, competency-based programs allow students to balance education with work, family, and service commitments. This episode also dives into the importance of understanding military education benefits like the GI Bill, the role of mentors and enrollment counselors, and why being “military-friendly” must extend beyond a single department and into the culture of an institution. If you are exploring education options, supporting transitioning service members, or working in higher education, this conversation provides real insight without the fluff. Education decoded. Futures unlocked. Powered by Zero Dark Thirsty. 👇 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone navigating their education journey. 👉 Connect with Samantha here: Samantha Perrino | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-perrino-13b68117a/) 👉 Click here to access WGU portal: WGU Enrollment Portal | Login - Create Your Account (https://apply.wgu.edu/register) #VeteranEducation #MilitaryTransition #GIBill #MilitarySpouse #HigherEducation #WGU #ZeroDarkThirsty #EdHocReport

6. 

   22 Jan 2026

   Mafia Made with Chris Dove

   In this episode of Mafia Made on Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina Morse sits down with Chris Dove for an honest conversation about the realities Veterans face when transitioning from military to civilian life. Chris shares his personal journey navigating the job market after service, including the challenges of networking, resume positioning, and understanding what job offers and negotiations really look like on the civilian side. Together, they break down why waiting until the last minute to prepare for transition puts Veterans at a disadvantage and how early planning, mentorship, and community can change outcomes. This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and digs into purpose, identity, and what it actually takes to build momentum after the uniform comes off. If you are transitioning, already out, or mentoring Veterans through the process, this episode delivers real insight without the highlight reel. Topics Covered • Military to civilian transition • Job searching and networking realities • Resume strategy and positioning • Mentorship and Veteran advocacy • Preparing early for life after service • Finding community and purpose Connect with Chris Dove LinkedIn: Chris Dove Jr 🕊 | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdovejr/) Learn More About Uptime Talent Careers Page: Uptime Talent (https://uptimetalent.com/) About Mafia Made Mafia Made is where E4s and E5s finally get to tell the truth. Real stories. Real lessons. No highlight reels. #MafiaMade #ZeroDarkThirsty #MilitaryTransition #VeteranCareers #E4Mafia #VeteranMentorship #PostMilitaryLife #HiringVeterans

7. 

   21 Jan 2026

   SR2SR with Steven Westin

   Military to Civilian Transition | Veteran Careers, Networking & Leadership After Service | SR2SR Leaving the military isn’t just about finding a job. It’s about redefining identity, purpose, and leadership beyond the rank. In this SR2SR (Senior Rank to Senior Role) episode of Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina is joined by Tony and Pedro for an honest, no-filter conversation with Stephen Weston about the realities of transitioning from military service into civilian careers. Stephen shares his personal veteran transition story, including the challenges of navigating corporate culture, the importance of intentional networking, and how veterans can avoid burnout by setting boundaries early. The discussion dives deep into education vs experience, why mentorship matters, and how senior enlisted leaders can translate military leadership into civilian success. This episode also addresses the emotional side of military transition that often goes unspoken, from identity loss to rebuilding confidence, while offering practical advice veterans can apply immediately. The conversation wraps up with lighthearted football predictions and reflections on life, leadership, and growth after service. Whether you’re an active duty service member preparing to transition, a veteran already in the civilian workforce, or a leader supporting veteran hiring, this episode delivers real insight, clarity, and perspective. Topics covered in this episode: • Military to civilian transition • Veteran career paths • Leadership after service • Networking for veterans • Education vs experience • Mentorship and professional growth • Corporate culture for veterans • Life after the military 👇 Connect & Explore Opportunities 🔗 Stephen Weston on LinkedIn Steven Weston | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-weston/) 🔗 Verizon Careers | Veteran Opportunities: Civilian Jobs for Military Veterans | Verizon Careers (https://mycareer.verizon.com/life-at-verizon/military/) 🔔 Subscribe to Zero Dark Thirsty for more veteran transition stories, leadership conversations, and career guidance. 👍 Like, comment, and share this episode with a veteran navigating their next chapter.

8. 

   12 Jan 2026

   Ed-Hok Report featuring Kim Archer at Rapid Ascent

   🎙️ Ed-Hok Report | Zero Dark Thirsty In this episode of the Ed-Hok Report on Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina sits down with Kim Archer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-archer/) from Rapid Ascent (https://www.rapidascent.com/) to talk about real, accessible education pathways for Veterans and military families who are ready to pivot into cybersecurity. Kim (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-archer/) breaks down how Rapid Ascent (https://www.rapidascent.com/)is helping bridge the gap between military experience and civilian cyber careers through hands-on training, practical labs, and real-world skill development. The conversation dives into why networking matters, how their programs are structured, and the level of support graduates receive when it comes time to land a job. They also cover funding options, scholarships, and ways to make high-quality cybersecurity education attainable without adding unnecessary financial stress. Kim (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-archer/) shares her personal passion for serving the Veteran community and why preparation, mentorship, and applied experience make all the difference when transitioning into tech. If you are a Veteran, spouse, or military family member exploring cybersecurity or trying to understand what real career-ready training looks like, this episode is for you. 🔔 Subscribe to Zero Dark Thirsty for more honest conversations about transition, careers, and life after service #ZeroDarkThirsty #EdHokReport #VeteransInTech #CybersecurityCareers #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEducation #CyberTraining #MilitarySpouse #CareerPivot #HandsOnLearning

9. 

   8 Jan 2026

   ZDT Presents Field Graders Gone Wild with Col. Paul Fidler

   In this episode of Field Graders Gone Wild, Delaina and Colonel Paul Fidler discuss the challenges and successes of transitioning from military to civilian life. They explore networking strategies, the importance of utilizing resources outside the military, and the realities of the civilian job market. Paul shares his personal journey, including his experiences at Kroger and Amazon, and emphasizes the importance of understanding corporate culture and pay structures. The conversation highlights the significance of family support during this transition and encourages veterans to reach out for help.

10. 

    5 Jan 2026

    Mafia Made with Justin Henderson and Veteran Hiring Solutions

    In this episode of Mafia Made on Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina Morse sits down with Justin Henderson to talk candidly about the realities of transitioning from military to civilian life and why the E4 Mafia often carries more leadership weight than they are ever given credit for. Justin breaks down the challenges Veterans face when entering the civilian job market, especially in the shadow of the Great Recession and a rapidly changing hiring landscape shaped by AI. Together, they unpack the mindset shifts Veterans need to make and the changes civilian employers must embrace to better recognize military experience. The conversation also dives into the power of networking, why video job descriptions are changing how companies attract talent, and the overlooked earning potential of skilled trades. Justin highlights how military-earned certifications can unlock real opportunities if Veterans know how to leverage them correctly. This episode is a must-watch for Veterans navigating transition, employers hiring military talent, and anyone serious about bridging the civilian-military workforce gap without relying on outdated playbooks. Topics Covered • Military to civilian transition • The leadership impact of the E4 Mafia • Veteran hiring challenges • AI and modern recruiting practices • Networking and career positioning • Skilled trades and certification value How to reach Justin Henderson and sign-up with VHS: Click to Connect with Justin> LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhendersonusmc/) Click to Follow VHS > LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/veteranhiringsolutions/posts/?feedView=all) Click to create a profile > Veteran Hiring Solutions (https://www.veteranhiringsolutions.com/) About Mafia Made Mafia Made is where E4s and E5s finally get to tell the truth. Real stories. Real lessons. No highlight reels. #MafiaMade #ZeroDarkThirsty #MilitaryTransition #E4Mafia #VeteranCareers #VeteranHiring #AIinHiring #SkilledTrades #PostMilitaryLife #VeteranLeadership

11. 

    31 Dec 2025

    Mafia Made with Nate Young at ZDT

    In this episode of Mafia Made on Zero Dark Thirsty, Delaina Morse sits down with Nathanael Young, a former U.S. Navy corpsman turned senior recruiter, to talk honestly about military transition, identity, and what comes next after the uniform comes off. Nathanael shares his journey from military medicine to healthcare recruitment and breaks down what many transitioning service members are not told. From the emotional weight of leaving the military to the importance of programs like SkillBridge, this conversation focuses on building a mission-driven civilian career without starting over or selling yourself short. They dig into the PCS mindset, why it hurts veterans in the long run, and how mentorship, community, and intentional skill-building can change outcomes for E5s and below. This episode is for anyone navigating the shift to civilian life, considering recruiting or healthcare roles, or supporting Veterans through transition. If you are preparing to leave the military, already out and recalibrating, or mentoring others through the process, this episode delivers real guidance without the highlight reel. Key Topics Covered • Military to civilian transition • SkillBridge and Veteran support programs • Emotional transition after service • Recruiting and healthcare careers • Community building before separation • Career advice for E5s and below Memorable Sound Bites “You can define your own path.” “The PCS mindset hurts veterans.” “Mentorship was key.” About Mafia Made Mafia Made is where E4s and E5s finally get to tell the truth. Real stories, real lessons, no highlight reels. #MafiaMade #ZeroDarkThirsty #MilitaryTransition #SkillBridge #VeteranSupport #HealthcareRecruitment #VeteranCareers #E5 #PostMilitaryLife #VeteranMentorship

Contact Zero Dark Thirsty

Guest appearances

Books guests

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