In the latest episode of "The War Journal" podcast, bestselling author, Jim Sisco shares a candid discussion with his lifelong friend and Marine Corps veteran Brian Michigan about the struggles veterans face when dealing with mental health issues.  Jim and Brian's friendship began shortly after graduating boot camp in 1987 and evolved through a shared journey in the Marines, college, and significant personal milestones. Jim and Brian’s combat deployments in Panama and Kuwait forged a lifelong bond reinforced with Brian welcoming Jim home from Operation Desert Storm. After the Marines they pledged Theta Chi fraternity at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and joined the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC) together. Brian was Jim’s first salute at Navy Officer Candidate School in Pensacola Florida and they attended each other’s weddings and funerals for departed family members. Brian was the brother that Jim never had and his family adopted him as one of their own.  As many veterans can attest, family obligations, careers, and life in general erode the strong bonds that are created through mutual hardship, adversity, and pain. Like most friendships between Veterans, Jim and Brian’s evolved over time. Frequent visits during summer vacations and holidays turned into weekly calls and likes or shares to Facebook posts. Eventually, their communications were reduced to sporadic “buddy checks,” infrequent calls to see how they were doing. The calls were superficial discussions used to provide updates about friends and family that never breached topics regarding their own struggles with mental health issues, PTSD, Survivor Guilt, or the stress and anxiety faced due to their careers, relationships, or life. During difficult times they would provide moral support as most veterans do, however it only scratched the surface of the deeper issues that impacted them both.After starting the War Journal Podcast, Jim reached out to Brian be a guest. It was during those conversations that Jim and Brian were able to reconnect and open up about each other’s personal struggles with mental health issues they both experienced. In this powerful heartfelt episode, they share their own experiences with mental health challenges, offering an authentic glimpse into the reality behind veterans sharing their struggles. The podcast serves as a vivid example to other veterans who are dealing with challenges in their lives, mental health issues, or depression. It’s OK to reach out and talk to a friend.   Join us for Episode 10 of "The War Journal" podcast, where Jim and Brian discuss the complexities of maintaining strong bonds amidst life's challenges and the importance of addressing mental health issues openly.🎧 Tune in to Episode 10 of "The War Journal" podcast for an honest and compelling exploration of veteran friendships, mental health, and the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences.👉 Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with honor, courage, and commitment that deliver valuable life lessons from a veteran's perspective. #TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode10 #JimSisco #BrianMichigan #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmonth #VeteranMentalHealth #MarineCorps #Brotherhood #courage #SubscribeNow

In the latest episode of "The War Journal" podcast, bestselling author, Jim Sisco talks about the start of the Coalition Air Offensive and how that pivotal moment was a wakeup call that changed everyone’s attitudes and impacted his life. The Air Campaign had a profound effect on Jim’s relationships with his family and friends. It galvanized his rough abrasive exterior formed during a troubled childhood and time in the Marines, and hardened his heart so he could remain focused on the mission. Reflecting on his journal entries 30 years later, Jim reveals how the start of the Air Campaign coincided with his Company’s 115-mile move west. He also recounts learning about the Company’s participation in a deception plan while standing Fire Watch and how that single event strengthened his own “need to know” mentality, reinforced his desire to question authority, and his drive to always ask “why” an important trait that he would instill in his children later in his life. In a deeply personal segment, Jim shares how the war’s onset affected his feelings toward Ashly. In his journal entry he writes, “I became hardened and cut off my emotions—traits that enabled me to deal with my situation and became dominant parts of my personality.”   He discusses how this shaped his identity and impacted his marriage and relationship with his children. The episode concludes with Jim sharing pictures of his children and recounting how his heart softened and how he became more affectionate toward his children—learning how to express his love for them in ways he had not done before with anyone else. Join us for Episode 9 of "The War Journal" podcast, where Jim shares his heartfelt and harrowing journey through the complexities of war. This episode offers an intimate look at the impact of war individuals, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the human dynamic of combat.  Tune in to Episode 9 of "The War Journal" podcast for an honest and compelling exploration of relationships, personal growth, and a father’s love for his children.  Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and strategic insights from a veteran's perspective. #TheWarJournal #Podcast 9 #JimSisco #DesertStorm #MilitaryLife #PersonalGrowth #SubscribeNowBuy Your Own Copy of The War Journal On Amazon!https://www.amazon.com/War-Journal-Marines-Discovery-Critical/dp/B0BW31G5TH

Episode 8 of "The War Journal" Podcast: Jim Sisco Reveals the Chaos, Sacrifice, and Mental Strain of War that were similar to the challenges he faced in a failed marriage, which ultimately changed his identity.In the latest episode of "The War Journal" podcast, bestselling author Jim Sisco dives deep into the tormenting experiences of Marines on the brink of war. He unveils the constant physical challenges and psychological fatigue faced by the Marines as they prepared for combat, revealing the raw intensity of their journey through four powerful journal entry titled, "Followers of Chaos out of Control."Jim Sisco’s vivid accounts of frequent movements, lack of sleep, and deplorable conditions, built resilience but also influenced his deteriorating mental state because of the chaos that surrounded him. "Every day I pray for war," he writes, capturing the desperation and confusion of those moments. The journal entries are accompanied by photographs that illustrate the tenacity, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to his teammates—qualities that forged Jim’s "Stay in the Fight" mentality and solidified his identity.This same mindset, however, also trapped him in a failed marriage.  Jim candidly discusses how his personal sacrifices to maintain his father and husband identity consumed his life, shaped his worldviews, and ultimately influenced his actions and behavior. It wasn’t until after his divorce that Jim realized his personal sacrifices did not bring him happiness and instead led to lost friendships and a false sense of self-worth.Through the lessons learned in Desert Storm and the personal turmoil of a high-conflict divorce, Jim offers hope and insights to others facing similar challenges. His story is a testament to the enduring struggle to discover and embrace one's true identity.Join us for Episode 8 of "The War Journal" podcast, where Jim Sisco shares his journey from the chaos of Desert Storm to his ongoing quest for self-realization. This episode provides a powerful and personal exploration of the sacrifices made in the name of duty and the ultimate cost of maintaining an identity that no longer serves. Tune in to "The War Journal" podcast for an intimate and revealing discussion that resonates with anyone who has faced the profound challenges of war, identity, and personal sacrifice. Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and insights from a veteran's perspective.#TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode8 #JimSisco #Identity #chaos #mental health # fatigue #self-worth #DesertStorm #Sacrifice #MilitaryLife #PersonalGrowth #SubscribeNow

In Episode 7 of "The War Journal" podcast, bestselling author, Jim Sisco, delves into the complex and often tumultuous aspects of managing personal relationships during deployment and wartime. Drawing from his own personal experiences of infidelity and adultery that shaped his world views, Jim opens up about how he navigated the emotional and psychological challenges of being in a relationship while deployed. By remaining focused on the mission, Jim provides a glimpse into how this strategy shaped his identity and impacted his future personal and professional relationships.Listeners will also gain insight into Jim's struggles for recognition among his leaders and peers as he attempts to become a Team Leader within the platoon, which offers a raw and honest portrayal of the fight for respect and leadership in the military.Jim goes on to describe his brief reprieves to the desert oasis called Camp 15 that provided much-needed escapes and creature comforts not afforded to Marines in the front lines, exposed to deplorable conditions and unrelenting stresses of desert warfare. These short-lived moments of peace, where he could take a shower and enjoy a hot meal, were invaluable to maintaining his morale and mental health. Jim reflects on how these small comforts are normal conditions in today’s modern wars, which gave him a greater appreciation for Marines and soldiers who fought in the iconic wars from the past.In a deeply personal segment, Jim reads another letter he wrote to his father during Desert Storm that illustrates his attempts to dispel his father’s fears of him being injured or killed amid the ever-present dangers of combat.Join us for Episode 7 of "The War Journal" podcast, where Jim Sisco shares his heartfelt and harrowing journey and personal relationships through the complexities of war. This episode offers an intimate look at the personal sacrifices and resilience required of those who serve, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the human dynamic of combat. Tune in to Episode 7 of "The War Journal" podcast for an honest and compelling exploration of relationships, respect, and the small reprieves that sustain soldiers during war. Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and strategic insights from a veteran's perspective.#TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode7 #JimSisco #Infidelity #TeamLeader #DesertStorm #Camp15 #MilitaryLife #PersonalGrowth #SubscribeNow

In Episode 6 of "The War Journal" podcast, bestselling author, Jim Sisco, takes us into the intense world of Charlie Company, 2nd RECON Battalion, as they prepare for war in the desert. Through Jim's journal entries, listeners gain an authentic and immersive look into the challenges and frustrations faced by Marines during real-world training missions and exercises during Desert Shield, which exposed the shortcomings in leadership and equipment, creating a tough environment that tested the resolve and resilience of the entire company.Jim also reveals his first observations of the actions and behaviors of the Marines around him and highlights the emotional strain of maintaining a relationship with his girlfriend, Ashley, during deployment. This added burden weighed heavily on his moral and psychological state, revealing the often-unseen personal battles soldiers face during deployments and at home.In a deeply personal segment, Jim shares his journey of self-awareness, a process that began during the deployment but only became clear to him years after Desert Storm. He reflects on how his own attitude, actions, and behavior influenced his teammates and shaped their attitudes and behavior. This introspection has informed his current perspective and approach to life, providing valuable lessons in leadership and personal development for anyone.The episode concludes with a funny and insightful anecdote about Jim's journey into manhood through an encounter with Ashley’s father. This story sheds light on the broader struggles men face in society today, offering a light, yet meaningful end to an episode rich with real-life challenges and growth.Join us for this captivating episode packed with personal pictures and firsthand experiences that paint a vivid image of a young Marine on the brink of combat.Don't miss Episode 6 of "The War Journal" podcast for an authentic glimpse into the trials, triumphs, and personal growth of those who serve. Tune in to Episode 6 of "The War Journal" podcast for an insightful and engaging exploration of military life, personal development, and the humorous moments that shape us. Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and strategic insights from a veteran's perspective.#TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode6 #JimSisco #CharlieCompany #2ndRECON #DesertStorm #MilitaryTraining #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #ModernStruggles #SubscribeNow

Prepare to dive into the evolution of complex personal dynamics experienced in deployments with Episode 5 of "The War Journal" podcast. In this episode, bestselling author Jim Sisco introduces the interpersonal relationships between his teammates revealing how respect, trust, and sometimes conflict influenced mission readiness and moral. He also offers a glimpse, from his unique perspective on the perceptions of the Officers and Senior Enlisted in his unit, which reinforced the underlying tensions that existed between Officers, Senior enlisted, and operators and impacted daily operations and mission success.In a deeply personal segment, Jim reads a letter he sent to his father while on deployment. This letter not only offers a glimpse into his experiences during the deployment but also reveals the trauma from a turbulent  childhood that sheds light on his years that profoundly shaped his character, forged his identity  and created a sense of resilience that remained throughout his life.Tune in to hear Jim's heartfelt reflections and gain a deeper understanding of the bonds formed in the crucible of Desert Storm.🎧 Don't miss Episode 5 of "The War Journal" podcast for an engaging exploration of team dynamics, personal growth, and the powerful influence of family and early life experiences.👉 Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and strategic insights from a veteran's perspective.#TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode5 #JimSisco #MilitaryDynamics #OfficersAndEnlisted #TeamCamaraderie #DeploymentLetters #PersonalGrowth #SubscribeNow

Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the heart of the desert with Episode 4 of "The War Journal" podcast, where author Jim Sisco delves into the harsh realities of life and operations in one of the world's most unforgiving environments. In this episode, Jim paints a vivid picture of the desert's harshness, from the intense solitude to the unrelenting winds, extreme temperatures, and sand that provides a constant source of frustration. He shares how these extreme conditions tested his resilience and shaped his perspective on life and survival. But this episode is more than just a tale of endurance. Jim opens up about his spiritual journey, revealing how his faith, which deepened later in life, became a source of strength and support during the toughest time in his life. Listeners will gain an intimate understanding of how personal beliefs can fortify one's spirit in the face of adversity. Jim also sheds light on his first encounter with the Rules of Engagement (ROE), discussing how these regulations, while intended to guide military conduct, often presented significant challenges. He reflects on the complexities and frustrations of these rules, offering insights into how they hindered U.S. forces from achieving decisive victories in Iraq and Afghanistan. This episode promises to be a compelling discussion that blends personal anecdotes, historical context, and invaluable life lessons from a Desert Storm veteran's perspective. Don't miss out on Jim's firsthand experiences that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the trials and triumphs faced by those who serve in the challenging environments of a forgotten war.  Tune in to Episode 4 of "The War Journal" podcast for an insightful exploration of resilience, faith, and the limitations encountered by military personnel.  Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast now for more episodes filled with bravery, faith, and personal insights. #TheWarJournal #Podcast #Episode4 #JimSisco #DesertRealities #Faith #RulesOfEngagement #MilitaryLife #Veterans #Resilience #SubscribeNow

Welcome to the third episode of "The War Journal" podcast with your host Jim Sisco! In this gripping installment, Jim transports listeners back to Christmas 1990, where he vividly recounts the harsh realities of spending Christmas in Southeast Asia alone. He describes the uneventful, short-lived holiday far from loved ones that was a stark contrast with the festive spirit back home.  Jim introduces the underlying fear and uncertainty faced by Marines and soldiers due to the size and capabilities of the Iraqi Army, lack of proper equipment and training, and the ever-present threat of chemical, biological, and nerve agents, which made for a no-win situation and created a “death pact” with his teammates who vowed to shoot each other rather than endure the gruesome death that a nerve agents would inflict. It also provides a lens to view the war, context to understand the psychological effects, and sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by Marines and soldiers during this pivotal conflict.Through his poignant storytelling, Jim accurately captures the feelings shared by many of his teammates throughout the deployment, which is a testament to the bravery and unwavering loyalty forged in the crucible of combat.Don't miss out—subscribe now and join the conversation!Remember to Like and Subscribe!Buy Your Own Copy of The War Journal On Amazon!https://www.amazon.com/War-Journal-Marines-Discovery-Critical/dp/B0BW31G5TH- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - #podcastshow #show #newpodcast #freedom #veteran

Welcome back to “The War Journal” podcast with your  host and author Jim Sisco! In this highly anticipated second episode, Jim reveals the origin of the war Journal, which provides listeners and viewers the context for the book and our journey together. Jim shares a compelling testimonial, and reflects on a pivotal encounter where he meets Christie, which alters the course of his life forever. Tune in as Jim recounts a tense encounter with Christie's father, which adds a colorful vignette to an already captivating narrative.  But more importantly, Jim shares insights into his identity and a valuable life lesson learned in Marine Corps Recruit Training, reinforced through his combat tours in Iraq an Afghanistan, and applied in his personal life to manage a high conflict divorce and custody battle. “Calm in the Face of Adversity.”   Join Jim Sisco on this riveting journey through the pages of the War Journal, where courage, resilience, and the human spirit shine amidst the chaos of war. Subscribe now to "The War Journal" podcast and immerse yourself in a compelling tale of love, loss, and the pursuit of purpose. As Jim reads excerpts from the War Journal, listeners are transported into the raw emotions and experiences captured within its pages. From moments of bravery and camaraderie to the stark realities of conflict and sacrifice, Jim's vivid narration brings the War Journal to life in a poignant and unforgettable manner. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "The War Journal" podcast with author Jim Sisco. In this episode, we delve into the heart and soul of Jim Sisco's purpose behind "The War Journal" and explore the profound insights shared in his gripping memoir.As a seasoned veteran with 23 years of service in Marine Corps Special Operations and Naval Intelligence, Jim Sisco brings a unique perspective to the forefront. Through his best-selling book, "The War Journal," Jim shares his firsthand experiences from the frontlines of Desert Storm, offering a raw and unfiltered account of the chaos and turmoil of battle.In this episode, Jim opens up about his motivation for penning "The War Journal" and discusses the significance of sharing his personal journey with the world. From moments of bravery and adversity to reflections on personal growth and resilience, Jim provides a compelling narrative that captivates listeners from start to finish.Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment with Jim Sisco, diving deep into the pages of "The War Journal" and uncovering the profound truths hidden within. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a veteran seeking camaraderie, or simply someone eager to learn from the experiences of others, this episode promises to deliver valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.Don't miss out on this captivating debut episode of "The War Journal" podcast with author Jim Sisco. Subscribe now and join us as we explore the untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience that define the human spirit in times of war and adversity.Subscribe to "The War Journal" podcast on Substack, TikTok, YouTube, and Spotify to stay updated on future episodes and continue your journey of discovery with Jim Sisco.

"The War Journal" is a podcast, audiobook, and two full seasons of a miniseries that brings to life first-hand experiences of a father, athlete, business owner and 23-year veteran of Marine Corps Special Operations and Naval Intelligence.I take you on an amazing journey describing his personal experiences as he reads from my best-selling book "The War Journal" where he shares stories of bravery, adversity, and personal growth amidst the chaos of battle from the frontlines in Desert Storm. From enduring extreme weather conditions to grappling with fear and uncertainty, my reflections offer a profound understanding of the challenges and sacrifices faced by Desert Storm Veterans who’s struggles are often overlooked by the recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.Subscribe now to "The War Journal"Buy “The War Journal: A Young Marine’s Discovery of Critical Life Lessons from Desert Storm” today by clicking link: https://www.amazon.com/War-Journal-Marines-Discovery-Critical/dp/B0BW31G5TH