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Permission To Speak Freely

146 episodes - English - Latest episode: 5 days ago - ★★★★★ - 51 ratings

Damon, Damo, and Tisha (active duty CPOs) share sea stories and have unfiltered conversations about current events, policies, and everyday life as a service member.

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Episodes

The One About Segue Fails (Feat. GSE1 McPherson)

April 17, 2022 02:15 - 2 hours - 284 MB

Former shipmate of both Damon and Damo, GSE1 Kenton McPherson joins the show as a “guest host” and the guys couldn’t be more excited! The episode opens with a little bit of myth busting with regard to unwritten rules by different rates in the Navy. The trio goes on to discuss recent reports about the Navy offering at least 25,000 dollars to anyone willing to join as long as they will ship out to basic training by June. As most conversations go on ‘PTSF,’ the conversation transition to a disc...

The One About DESRON Visits

April 09, 2022 14:12 - 2 hours - 221 MB

Welcome to the wonderful world of Permission to Speak Freely. In and out of topics on this episode, Damon and Damo tackle the topic of what goes through the minds of Sailors when they get informed about a short notice DESRON visit. They move on to discuss Top Gun 2. Damo highlights one of the weirdest weeks in his life. Damon holds DRB on Damo after Damo confesses a wrongdoing. Somehow projectile vomit is the climax in this story.  What’s a joke really? Straying away from naval topics, the g...

Oh, By The Way Ep. 7 - The Elite

March 28, 2022 23:01 - 46 minutes - 85.4 MB

Surprised by the events that transpired during last night’s Oscars ceremony, Damon and Damo wanted to discussed a few of their initial thoughts. Will slaps Chris, Will wins Oscar, Damo's sick, is a prank a joke? Who knows.    For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

The One About The Scammers

March 25, 2022 02:38 - 2 hours - 225 MB

As we continue our celebration of Women’s History Month, the guys honor Army Sergeant Monica Lin Brown for her efforts during the War in Afghanistan which resulted in her receiving a Silver Star. Not much is left untouched in this episode full of shenanigans and jokes. Damon and Damo discuss Tyler Jenkins and the very familiar scenario that is infidelity that plagues a lot of Sailor’s lives. Not to be unbeaten by Netflix and Hulu, the military has a few scammer stories of our own. The Navy h...

[BONUS] The Fan Room | Ep. 2 Pizza w/ Wesley Pinkney *SNIPPET*

March 22, 2022 09:46 - 48 minutes - 88.1 MB

THIS IS ONLY A SNIPPET. TO LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE, PLEASE LOOK FOR "THE FAN ROOM" ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP.   All social media for the Fan Room: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast   On this Episode, Damo sits down with one of his longtime friends and business partner, Wesley Pinkney. Wesley  is a retired Navy Chief Engineman with a really interesting story. He talks about it all from what made him join the Navy and how he was able to retire in only 13 years to his inspiration behind ...

The One About Two Strikes (Feat. YN1 Ann Geiman)

March 13, 2022 23:00 - 2 hours - 264 MB

Happy Woman’s History Month. We proudly honor all of our sisters-in-arms and our queens on the home-front always leading with flawless execution.   After a very short emergency vacation, the fellas are back! This time they are joined by YN1 Ann Geiman. Back in 2012, as an E3, YN1 created the Gay, Lesbian and Supportive Sailors association (GLASS). This year marks the association’s 10-Year Anniversary. Her acknowledgment of the need for this association took her from being a frustrated A-Sc...

Oh, By The Way Ep. 6 - Love & War

February 28, 2022 00:08 - 1 hour - 134 MB

Congratulations to all newly selected LDOs and CWOs!   Damon and Damo begin this episode on a serious note, shouting out all of the brave service members that have been called to action (in transit to Europe) in light of the recent events in Ukraine. They talk about war and give their thoughts on if they feel it is a necessary option in our modern age. Damo grips about the cost of Netflix and streaming services as a whole. Do Engineers show up to Duty Section turnover? Damo explores the to...

The One About Flankspeed

February 21, 2022 05:20 - 1 hour - 189 MB

Damo opens up about the heartbreak that a person can feel when a loved one passes up their spouse in a tv series. It’s a great thing his has Damon as a mentor and fried to help him through these tumultuous times. A win for secondary caregivers: 21 Days of leave after a qualifying birth experience. The guys give a super late Super Bowl reflection. PRIMS 2.0 and the new “plank” standards have been released. Will Damo hit his PFA goals this year? Damon shares a story about the Direct Procuremen...

The One About Love, Socks, & EPs (Feat. 911BabyGoat)

February 14, 2022 06:44 - 2 hours - 256 MB

On this very special Valentine’s Day episode, Damon and Damo are joined by content creator and active duty Sailor, ‘911BabyGoat.’ They discuss his motivation, ambition and the origin of his name. Of course love had to come up in the conversation (since it is Valentine’s Day after all). 911BabyGoat talks biggest challenges in the military and growing up in Tennessee and Mississippi. The topic of “Boat Boos” rears its head back into a conversation about finding love as an active duty Sailor. T...

Oh, By The Way Ep. 5 - Reddit, MCPON, and That Other Goat

February 06, 2022 18:15 - 1 hour - 175 MB

On this episode Damon and Damo discuss the value of Reddit and how it's been helping Sailors get messages out in a less traditional way. They cover a few breaking news stories, to include the recent reports about the MCPON having some sort of investigate, but maybe not, or maybe it's open, but it could be closed, we don't know. All we know is that whatever happened, it wasn't as bad as "the other guy." All of this information coming out of a report in Navy Times. Should we practice any form ...

The One About The Duty Phone (Feat. CMDCM Joseph Montenero)

January 31, 2022 05:07 - 2 hours - 302 MB

Damon and Damo are joined by CMDCM Joseph “Jay” Montenero. After a short discussion about Facebook hackers and being a Good Samaritan, the fellows get right to it. The trio discusses everything from the day to day role of a Command Master Chief to if CMC Montenero ever had to deal with a “road program” Chief. The “China Lake Ninja” story resurfaces and Jay discusses some of the other weird things that happen on “the biggest base in the middle of nowhere.” Ever wonder how CMCs pick orders? Wh...

The One About Three Section Duty (Feat. HMCM Robert Flowers)

January 24, 2022 07:00 - 3 hours - 355 MB

Damon opens this episode talking about some the hazards of raising  teenage children during a global pandemic. Does anybody like 3 Section duty? This topic is discussed. Damon and Damo are joined by HMCM Robert Flowers to discuss what a Command Climate Specialist (CCS) is. What role does a CCS play in the career of every Sailor in Navy? What exactly is the Culture of Excellence? Why is Task Force One Navy important to our future? The OPNAVINST 5354.1H is discussed along with how to file diff...

The One About a Seat at the Table (Feat. Lt. Joseph Solomon II)

January 18, 2022 00:36 - 3 hours - 344 MB

Damon and Damo are joined by LT. Joseph Soloman II. The trio begin the episode by honoring the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. They discuss how they believe that MLK would want us to celebrate his holiday. They discuss Lt. Solomon’s life before, during, and his plans after his career in the Navy. From his fitness journey to being one of two black Sailors in dive school, to not always feeling like “himself” in the Wardroom, and understanding and adapting to change by not att...

The One About Flying Canteens

January 11, 2022 02:00 - 1 hour - 161 MB

On This Episode: Welcome back! Happy New Year! Damon and Damo bring in the year playing a little catch up. They discuss Christmas and New Year. Damon highlights his visit to Great Lakes to attend his son’s boot camp graduation. Damo discusses the launch of his series, The Fan Room, and his experience filming two episodes in one day. Damo tells Damon about his experience in “Oculus World.” The goats discuss 90’s era movies and how things that happened back then would not be allowed today. Th...

The One About Flow Charts (Feat. EN1 Chris Sherow)

December 20, 2021 07:00 - 2 hours - 307 MB

On This Episode: For a special end of the year episode; Damon and Damo are joined by EN1 Chris Sherow and the trio discuss everything from having to “dumb it down” sometimes to what they believe to be the best rank in the Navy. They also discuss MyNavyHR’s list of the 10 most impactful Navadmins that were released in 2021. Would you rather fight a monkey or a kangaroo? Who knows. These and more topics are covered on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely’ podcast o...

The One About Wendy‘s Training Videos

December 13, 2021 00:49 - 1 hour - 202 MB

We would like to dedicate this episode to the family and the legacy of Cdr. Brian Bourgeois, Commanding Officer of Seal Team 8.    On This Episode:   Damo opens up the podcast addressing his wife, Angelene’s surgery and his appreciation of the Navy for being able to support the mental health of his family at this time of need. A lot of farewell salutes to fallen heroes and our hero of the day, Ensign Herbert C. Jones. Damo tells Damon about how he celebrated his birthday and watching Bru...

The One About The Sneezing Elephant

December 04, 2021 21:26 - 1 hour - 193 MB

On This Episode:   Damon and Damo are back with another week of reflection, sea stories, and even laughter (even if it’s at their own expense). Every episode title has a purpose, even this one. Find out why…   To all of our active listeners, we truly LOVE you and hope you’ve enjoyed our episodes up until now. Please remember, you can always reach out and let us know  how you feel. Until next time.      Link to all Social Media and Youtube: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast     Please s...

The One About Awkward Photo Ops

November 29, 2021 07:00 - 2 hours - 298 MB

On This Episode: Get ready to enjoy another jam packed episode full of topics and some deep dives into things that might not even need to be digested. Damon and Damo begin by discussing Black Friday and a few other topics. MMFN Brandon Forbes (USS Ronald Reagan) was found dead on base in Japan. As some details remain unknown, the guys just wanted to send condolences to the family and friends of our fallen shipmate. The fellas also share their different experiences regarding a fallen shipmat...

The One About The Moment of Truth (feat. India Rios, Esq.)

November 22, 2021 07:00 - 2 hours - 240 MB

On This Episode: Damon and Damo are joined by Chicago Attorney; India Rios, Esq. The conversation starts off with a quick reflection on the verdict from the Kyle Rittenhouse case. India talks her upbringing in Youngstown, Ohio and everything that led to her joining the U.S. Navy. The fellas dive into her career, including some experiences with sexual harassment and bias views. Her journey took a major turn when she decided to separate from the Navy. Overcoming fears and other people’s negat...

The One About Commitment Pt. 2

November 15, 2021 22:35 - 47 minutes - 87.5 MB

This is the second part of "The One About Commitment." Get your shots ready! It's our anniversary! Celebrate one year of the Permission To Speak Freely podcast with Damon Leggins and Andamo McCullough. The fellas recap a storied year with highlights and reflections about the inception of the podcast. There is also brief talk about Veteran's Day deals and "that one night in Temecula." Thanks to every listener and everyone that has supported us from day 1. We appreciate you and can never rep...

The One About Commitment Pt. 1

November 13, 2021 19:54 - 44 minutes - 80.6 MB

It's our anniversary! Celebrate one year of the Permission To Speak Freely podcast with Damon Leggins and Andamo McCullough. The fellas recap a storied year with highlights and reflections about the inception of the podcast. There is also brief talk about Veteran's Day deals and "that one night in Temecula." Thanks to every listener and everyone that has supported us from day 1. We appreciate you and can never repay you for giving us your time. (Look out for part 2 of this episode) Rememb...

The One About Covid Swab Tests

November 08, 2021 00:55 - 1 hour - 214 MB

If you are a dedicated fan of 'Permission To Speak Freely' and just love coming here every drop to read the episode notes; please forgive us. We just want you to go into it blind and enjoy the episode (for the most part at least). Of course, we highlight the life and works of Secretary / General / Legend Colin L. Powell. After that it's a tour de force in journalism ranging from dog humping and pooping before the PRT to Damo celebrating his retirement eating edibles with Damon (this is wishf...

The One About Quarterdecks

October 17, 2021 08:38 - 2 hours - 226 MB

The guys kick things off with a discussion about evaluation preferences (00:01:35). Happy 246th Birthday to the United States Navy (00:07:35), Damon and Damo discuss what they did to commemorate the special day. With sea duty being so demanding, are we all taking consideration into how much we are demanding on ourselves and our Sailors during Shore duty (00:24:08)? More updates on the case of Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller (01:04:38). Damon addresses leaders being uncomfortable with address Sailor...

The One About PPV Parties

October 04, 2021 04:28 - 2 hours - 234 MB

If you are having suicidal ideation and require immediate support please call: 1-800-273-8255   On this episode:     At the top of this episode Damon and Damon report the bizarre Kern County ninja vs. Army special ops story. After catching up with each other, the guys discuss the recently released CPO results (18:25) and talk about the Chief Season. (24:17) Damon and Damo offers advice to all Chief Selects. Damo plugs the 2021 Health of the Force Survey (25:12). Hit the link below to par...

The One About Technical Difficulties (Feat. FCA1 Eboni Wilson)

September 27, 2021 03:45 - 2 hours - 278 MB

On this episode: Damon and Damo start the episode by acknowledging National Hispanic Heritage Month and reading the Navy Cross citation for Sergeant Rafael Peralta. Guest, FCA1 (SW/AW) Eboni Wilson sits down to discuss overcoming adversity and navigating through the Navy to succeed at all costs. Sexuality, diversity, and the connection between the Chief’s Mess and the Junior Enlisted Sailors are heavily discussed.  These and more topics are discussed on this jam packed episode. Remember to f...

Oh, By The Way Ep. 4 - Stuffed Shells

September 18, 2021 16:17 - 1 hour - 137 MB

On this episode, Damon and Damo catch up with each other by discussing what they've been doing in the past few weeks. They talk about the breaking news regarding the drone strike in Kabul, Afghanistan. They both share stories from their CPO Seasons and discuss September 11, 2001. Remember to answer our two questions: Where were you on September 11, 2001? What noticeable changes did you experience in your career following the events of 9/11? Send all responses to [email protected] or ...

The One About Surf and Turf

September 06, 2021 10:22 - 2 hours - 315 MB

If you’re a veteran and have been triggered by recent events, please visit: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/   If you are having suicidal ideation and require immediate support please call: 1-800-273-8255       On this episode:     This episode starts with a Medal of Honor citation reading for Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith, United States Army (06:21). The guys discuss the recent impact of Hurricane Ida (11:04) and how it personally impacts them in completely different ways. Welcome abo...

The One About The Wardroom (Feat. LTJG Charles Davis)

August 30, 2021 07:00 - 2 hours - 228 MB

This episode is dedicated to Andamo’s stepmother, Mrs. Stephanie McMillian, who recently passed away. In addition, this episode is dedicated to the service members and civilians who lost their lives in the deadly Kabul airport attack.  On this episode: Damon and Damo are joined by LTJG Charles Davis to discuss the importance of the relationship between the Division Officer and the LCPO. They begin by discussing fraternization. The guys take the time out to recognize the service-members and ...

The One About Planet Fitness

August 15, 2021 11:43 - 1 hour - 217 MB

On this episode: Damo begins this episode discussing his duty day and the troubles of being the “Under Instruction” watch stander when things go wrong. The guys reflect on recent troubles with trying to have guests featured on the podcast. Damon and Damo speak on the recent developments in the story about the fire on the USS Bonhomme Richard and give their takes on Sailors transitioning from BUDS to the fleet. Would you force someone to do a job that they don’t want to do? The Goats discuss ...

Oh, By the Way Ep. 3 - Family Matters

July 31, 2021 17:35 - 36 minutes - 67.4 MB

On this episode, Damon and Damo discuss the importance of family understanding the sacrifices that come along with a long term career in the armed forces. Damo has another, "...that one time on liberty story." The guys have a short discussion about crying.  For full episodes of Permission To Speak Freely, Merchandise, and all social media networks: https://linktr.ee/Ptsfpodcast

Oh, By The Way Ep. 2 - Running Amuck (featuring Scott Collins)

July 31, 2021 16:22 - 17 minutes - 31.3 MB

In this Episode, Damon and Damo chat with Scott Collins (Host of the Running Amuck podcast) about some of the misconceptions regarding communication between junior Sailors and senior leadership in the United States Navy. Please remember to like, comment, and subscribe.   For more information on Scott Collins and the Running Amuck podcast (see below): Running Amuck (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/Running.Amuck Running Amuck (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/running.amuck.podcast/ Sc...

The One About Remedial Swim

July 12, 2021 05:41 - 2 hours - 243 MB

On this episode: Damo opens up about working without a division. The guys discuss how crucial the first 48 hours at a new command can be. E4 through E6 qoutas have been released! But wait, there was an issue! The importance in not making some mistakes is discussed. Are you the “work horse”? Do you feel overloaded? Are ups burning yourself out to make an impression on the ranking bored? These and more topics are discussed on this episode. Remember to follow the ‘Permission to Speak Freely Pod...

The One About Hillcrest

July 07, 2021 03:46 - 1 hour - 193 MB

On this episode: Damon and Damo begin this episode with a recap on the Floyd Mayweather Vs. Logan Paul fight.  The two quickly discuss the Lamar Odom Vs. Aaron Carter fight. Damon reflects on his son’s high school graduation and the graduation celebration of it. Damo discusses the responsibilities of his new role as an Alcohol and Drug Control Officer (ADCO). The Goats reiterate why they started the podcast and talk about camaraderie on watch. Damo explains to Damon how he celebrates “Pride ...

The One About Demographics

May 24, 2021 04:01 - 1 hour - 209 MB

On this episode: How Damo got scammed out of $200 (2:31), the guys discuss the recent ransomware attack on the Colonial Pipeline (13:46), panic buyers, and hoarders. The new DOD guidance for wearing a mask on base (23:30) and the latest changes from the CDC are discussed. Will you turn away a costumer for not wearing a mask? J. Cole released his sixth studio LP, The Off Season (34:30) and Damon and Damo spoke about the album briefly. The guys campaign for all the streaming companies to figur...

The One About ROM Food Options

May 17, 2021 04:00 - 2 hours - 232 MB

Did you miss us? We missed you. The guys are back! Permission to Speak Freely kicks off Episode 10 with Damon and Damo discussing every event that transpired since Episode 9 was recorded. They discuss what happened with the “2020 Wrap Up” episode. Damon talks about his very close to home bout with COVID-19. Damo gets on his self-proclaimed “soapbox” and discusses everything that has happened to him from pregnancy to miscarriage, to quarantine, to leaving his command. This episode is very per...

Oh, By The Way Ep. 1 - Coyote Brown (featuring Matt & Kelcy Rivas) [Explicit]

December 27, 2020 18:18 - 17 minutes - 24.5 MB

'Permission to Speak Freely' presents... Oh, By The Way 'Oh, By The Way' is a short extension of an episode where Damon and Damo call a friend, mentor, or subject matter expert (SME) for more detail into something that may have been mentioned in a previous episode.  In Coyote Brown, Damon and Damo speak with friend and fellow Chief; Matt Rivas (GSMC) and his wife, Kelcy. They discuss the Rivas' family business, Steel Beach Designs and talk about a few more personal thoughts.  Parental adv...

The One About Space Force Discipline

December 27, 2020 05:08 - 1 hour - 158 MB

Hope you enjoyed your Christmas! Welcome to another episode of Permission to Speak Freely. There are so many topics covered here. The "Beard" conversation is brought back up. The guys discuss how they joined the Navy and picked their rates. From Space Force to the Colin Kaepernick, there is just too much to discuss to outline in this episode. Just listen up and remember to like, follow, comment and share.    Links and More Information: Army Navy Game https://www.google.com/search?q=army+...

The One About Damn Leggins

December 19, 2020 04:21 - 2 hours - 186 MB

This episode is dedicated to Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Apprentice Ethan Garrett Goolsby, fair winds and following seas, Shipmate! After a brief hiatus, Damon and Damo are back and doing what they do best, discussing what's happening right now across the fleet. They discuss being officially active for over a month and achieving their first major benchmark.  It's time to catch up, discussing Damon's leadership award and Damo's birthday. You can't let December 7th go by without giving some l...

The One About FLTMPS Stalkers

December 03, 2020 03:54 - 2 hours - 122 MB

Mississippi stand up! In this episode Damon and Damo begin by discussing five (Navy related) things that they are thankful for. Damo exposes himself once again with a story of how he passed out in the club in Hawaii and what he regrets most about it. He also discuss his “best 8 days” in his career and his own personal story about depression. Damon provides predictions for the Mike Tyson/ Roy Jones Jr. fight and provides a story about a time that he got into trouble (finally!). After a brief ...

The One About FLTMPS Stalkers (Feat. ABCM Alquin Parker)

December 03, 2020 03:54 - 2 hours - 122 MB

Mississippi stand up! In this episode Damon and Damo begin by discussing five (Navy related) things that they are thankful for. Damo exposes himself once again with a story of how he passed out in the club in Hawaii and what he regrets most about it. He also discuss his “best 8 days” in his career and his own personal story about depression. Damon provides predictions for the Mike Tyson/ Roy Jones Jr. fight and provides a story about a time that he got into trouble (finally!). After a brief ...

The One About Boats (Feat. BMC Jesse Hernandez)

December 03, 2020 03:53 - 2 hours - 210 MB

Happy Native American Heritage Month & Happy Holidays from the folks at ‘Permission To Speak Freely.’ In this “Friendsgiving” episode, Damon and Damo invite a special guest to the table, Jesse Hernandez; a BMC with a personal journey and a very unique story about his season(s) as a CPO Selectee. Jesse has a rebuttal for Damon’s DAPA (Drug & Alcohol Program Advisor) take. With the country legalizing marijuana, should the Navy look into a form of marijuana “reform?” The three discuss the topic...

The One About Boats

December 03, 2020 03:53 - 2 hours - 210 MB

Happy Native American Heritage Month & Happy Holidays from the folks at ‘Permission To Speak Freely.’ In this “Friendsgiving” episode, Damon and Damo invite a special guest to the table, Jesse Hernandez; a BMC with a personal journey and a very unique story about his season(s) as a CPO Selectee. Jesse has a rebuttal for Damon’s DAPA (Drug & Alcohol Program Advisor) take. With the country legalizing marijuana, should the Navy look into a form of marijuana “reform?” The three discuss the topic...

The One About Fat Leonard

December 03, 2020 03:42 - 2 hours - 179 MB

[Recorded on 14 November 2020] The fellas acknowledge all the listeners and viewer since the PTSF “Launch Day” and respond to a few questions from listeners.  Damo asks Damon what kind of inspector he plans to be.  Damo gives a PSA on Powerpoints. Who really likes those things anyway? The Goats discuss the results of the recent President election and congratulate Kamala Harris on making history. They touch on working as a military member under a President that you may not particularly agree ...

The One About Dinosaurs

November 19, 2020 05:01 - 1 hour - 97.1 MB

[Recorded on 31 October 2020] Damo gives his reflection about his most recent periodic evaluation. Can children safely “Halloween” during COVID? The Goats debate the topic. Damon and Damo both reflect on their experiences with submitting officer packages. Damo takes a stand against restaurant that act “stingy” with Veterans Day sales. Is staying in for shore duty really worth it? The guys discuss programs that the military offers that they personally were able to take advantage of. Main topi...

The One About The Barking Dog

November 17, 2020 23:35 - 2 hours - 187 MB

[Recorded on 24 October 2020] Damon gives his opinion on computer based learning. Damo opens up about the time that he cheated on the Physical Readiness Test and got caught. The Goats have a deep dive about mentorship. Khalili “The Barking Dog” provides a very detailed perspective on this topic. The Sailor of the Year Program changes are highlighted. The bros talk about getting selected for Chief and Damo gets honest about his response to not being selected on his first time up. Remember whe...

The One About Trunk Space

November 06, 2020 04:36 - 1 hour - 159 MB

[Recorded on 18 October 2020] Damon and Damo catch up on new beginnings for Damon and exactly what goes down during INSURV. The Goats debate the CNP Vice Admiral's message regarding beards in the Navy and Damon declares himself "An Official Beard Hater." What is the worst watch in the Circadian Rhythm? "Boat Boos" are defined and addressed. Operational stress and suicide awareness are the main topics of this episode. Damon and Damo have an honest discussion about handling Sailors dealing wit...

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