Tales from the Corps

Michael Francis

Welcome to 'Tales from the Corps,' presented by SBX. Join Marines Mike and Adam,  as they share their stories from their time in the United States Marine Corps. The podcast includes weekly guests, ranging from fellow Marines to veteran professionals and athletes. If you're a fan of war stories, libo antics, and combat deployment tales, 'Tales from the Corps' is the perfect podcast. Tune in on platforms like Apple and Spotify, leave a 5-star rating, and join this journey through their experiences.


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Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Ep. 31 - Our Journeys Through Shared Struggles and Continuous Healing
May 7 2024
Ep. 31 - Our Journeys Through Shared Struggles and Continuous Healing
Have you ever found yourself instantly connecting with someone as if you've known them for years? That's the magic Neal Fauver and I experienced during our first real-life meet-up, a testament to the power of the genuine Marine Corps connection. We unpack the whirlwind of travel, the disorienting dance with time, and the anticipation of a restful May amidst the chaos. Our discussion brings you into a space where vulnerability meets laughter, as we reminisce about the immediate bond with veterans like Jay and Nik and the warmth of new friendships.During our heart-to-heart, we pay homage to the remarkable souls at HKA USA, particularly Nik Sampson, whose sincerity is as evident in their products as in their interactions. I recount an energizing day spent with Nik, from the peaceful walk to the Peacock to the scenic drives around Malibu, and how these experiences underscore the importance of lifting each other up in both business and life. With a nod to Daniel Morrissey, who sparked the idea of this podcast, we encourage you to leap into your passions—because sometimes, the biggest hurdle is just beginning.The episode takes a deeper turn as I share my personal journey navigating PTSD benefits and the emotional weight that war leaves on veterans. We discuss the strength found in the unbreakable brotherhood of the Marine Corps, the vital role of community support, and the life-altering impact of camaraderie. It's a space where we honor the silent battles and the shared commitment to carry each other through life's challenges, reminding listeners of the incredible resilience that comes from understanding and supporting one another. Join Neal and me for a conversation that is as heartfelt as it is eye-opening, as we explore these profound themes together.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Ep. 26 - Boot Camp Banter: From Barracks to Blockbusters
Feb 20 2024
Ep. 26 - Boot Camp Banter: From Barracks to Blockbusters
Ever felt like you're in a comedy sketch when your last name becomes a drill instructor's punchline? Well, Joshua Bitton from "The Pacific," Neil Fauver, and I sure did, and boy, do we have tales to tell! Join us for a rollercoaster ride from boot camp blunders to Hollywood hijinks, where the line between Marine and actor gets blurred.We dish on the behind-the-scenes grit of military movie magic, from sweating it out for "The Pacific" to handling props in "World War Z." Dive into the hilarious highs and poignant lows of filming, where camaraderie and laughter are our secret weapons against the toughest days.But it's not all laughs and action scenes. We dive deep into the heart of military life, reminiscing about the trials that tested us, the unexpected humor in discipline, and how our drill instructors' jokes became our saving grace.Then, we salute the heroes who've served, exploring the emotional journey from combat to civilian life. From tearful homecomings to the silent nods of understanding among veterans, we unravel the threads of PTSD, the scars of war, and the healing power of sharing our stories.So, buckle up for an episode that's more than just war stories—it's a salute to the unbreakable bonds, the laughter that heals, and the honor that transcends generations.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Ep. 21 - Shared Stories of Marine Corps Mischief and Morals
Jan 9 2024
Ep. 21 - Shared Stories of Marine Corps Mischief and Morals
Have you ever found yourself in an oppressive situation where laughter was both your best friend and worst enemy? That’s exactly what our Marines faced during Sergeant Major Diaz’s now-legendary teabag speech. Strap in for a raucous ride on the latest Tales from the Corps, as Vito makes his third appearance and Robert Eunice joins the show as well. You'll hear tales spun with the kind of humor only found in military camaraderie, including Eunice's bewildering boot-polish capers. We’ll also tackle the serious side of service, navigating through the Marine Corps' complex relationship with alcohol, without compromising the cherished unity that comes from shared duty and sacrifice.Remember when your grandpa would regale you with stories of "back in his day"? Well, we reflect on the previous episode with Scott Gibson’s insights on the Marine Corps, how the anecdotes from the Pacific span generations, capturing an ethos that seems immune to the passage of time. Our chat sails through history, from post-Guadalcanal to present-day shenanigans, comparing the unwavering spirit of the Corps to the shifting landscapes of other professions. Listen as we explore whether this constancy is a missed chance for evolution or a steadfast commitment to values worth holding on to. We even delve into Marine ingenuity, spotlighting how something as simple as a Tabasco bottle from an MRE can become a beacon of tradition and innovation. Don’t miss out on these stories that are as spicy as the condiment itself!Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Ep. 20 - From Trenches to Tributes: Exploring the Craft of Filming War Drama with Scott Gibson
Jan 2 2024
Ep. 20 - From Trenches to Tributes: Exploring the Craft of Filming War Drama with Scott Gibson
Experiencing the intensity of a war scene on camera is both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. Scott Gibson shares his first-time experience, facing real-time explosions for a high-stakes performance in the HBO mini-series "The Pacific". We get a rare look behind the scenes of action filmmaking, where meticulous coordination ensures safety amid spectacular stunts. Unexpected moments, like wildlife wandering onto the set, punctuate the seriousness of production, reminding us of life's unpredictability even in recreating history's darkest hours.Portraying a Marine carries an emotional toll, a responsibility Scott and I discuss in depth. Respect for the real heroes is crucial in the tapestry of military stories on television. From Peleliu to the cutting room floor, we delve into the complexities of bringing war to the screen, exploring the challenges faced by actors navigating public adulation for portraying real-life bravery.Our conversation shifts to relationships forged in the fires of creative endeavors. We reminisce about the connections and pranks that bond a cast, highlighting enduring friendships beyond the screen. We conclude with a tribute to those who serve, anticipating a biography and audio narration immortalizing a fallen hero's correspondence. Join us on a journey that goes beyond storytelling, touching the essence of camaraderie and remembrance.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Ep. 19 - Behind the Scenes with Scott Gibson Crafting Military Stories on Screen
Dec 26 2023
Ep. 19 - Behind the Scenes with Scott Gibson Crafting Military Stories on Screen
Join us in conversation with Scott Gibson, the accomplished actor behind Captain Andrew Haldane in HBO's "The Pacific." Scott shares his remarkable journey from athlete to acclaimed actor, delving into pivotal moments and rigorous auditions that led him from sports fields to the dramatic realms of London and bustling sets in Toronto. His story underscores the impact of self-belief and tenacity, revealing how a self-taped audition for "The Pacific" set the stage for his iconic role years later.This episode explores the craft of acting, focusing on the honor and responsibility of portraying real-life military heroes. Scott discusses the intense preparation involved, from physical transformations to studying personal letters for historical accuracy. We reflect on the profound impact these portrayals have on veterans and current service members, as well as the close bonds formed among the cast, mirroring the camaraderie experienced in the military. Scott's vivid account immerses listeners in the front lines of both acting and service, highlighting the profound connection between the two.As we conclude, our discussion delves into the shared human experience that storytelling fosters, whether on screen or in our podcast's intimate space. These dialogues serve as a therapeutic bridge for veterans, fostering understanding and camaraderie while touching civilians' hearts. We celebrate the unifying effect of retelling stories and the enduring legacy they carry, all while acknowledging the supportive community around them. Scott's insights serve as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice defining the lives of those in service, emphasizing the importance of never forgetting their stories.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Ep. 18 - Surviving the Game of Life: Veterans Speak on Sports, War, and Personal Struggles
Dec 19 2023
Ep. 18 - Surviving the Game of Life: Veterans Speak on Sports, War, and Personal Struggles
Grab a Seat, Relax, and Tune In: Unfiltered Conversations with Military Veterans Mike Frank Francis, Neal Fauver, and Adam Grey. Join us for a captivating exchange of stories about honor, bravery, and unwavering sports team loyalty. Neal shares riveting Navy tales, fueled by his father's crypto tech experiences, intertwining humor, and his enduring passion for the Dallas Cowboys. Explore firsthand accounts of Marine deployment in Iraq from 2007, offering a raw and deeply human perspective on war.As veterans, we delve into the challenges of transitioning to civilian life—addressing isolation, PTSD, and the quest for a new purpose. We open up about personal battles with alcoholism and addiction, and common struggles faced by our fellow servicemen and women during this transition. Amidst the heavier topics, we inject humor with anecdotes, including a side-splitting tale of a long ride and an overheating car. Life's twists and turns take center stage, showcasing that every story, hurdle, and setback can yield both laughter and valuable lessons.Wrapping up on a positive note, we celebrate 2000+ podcast downloads, extending gratitude to our fantastic producer, Janine Stella. Our success is owed to you, our listeners, so keep those downloads coming, and be sure to leave us a five-star rating! Just like our lives, our podcast promises unexpected twists and turns, so buckle up, join us, and embark on the journey through our 'Tales from the Corps.'Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwLContact Adam Gray:Email: agray5730@gmail.comTikTok: @adam41marineFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009814414736
Ep. 16 - From Drill School to Deployment: A Deep Dive into the Heart of the Marine Corps with Corporal Michael Sylvester
Dec 5 2023
Ep. 16 - From Drill School to Deployment: A Deep Dive into the Heart of the Marine Corps with Corporal Michael Sylvester
Ever wonder what it takes to be a Marine? Join us, your hosts Mike Francis and Adam Grizzly Grey, as we open up a world known to only a select few. On our show today, we’re excited to have Corporal Michael Sylvester, a fellow 3/6 brother who’s seen the Marine Corps evolve through significant changes. He’s here to take you on a journey through his experiences before and after the life-changing events of 9/11.Corporal Sylvester takes us behind the scenes of an incredibly high-stress world - the drill school. With captivating stories from his training days, he highlights the grit, intensity, and discipline expected of a Marine. One can't help but feel a sense of awe at the dedication and intensity of these warriors, training in a relentless environment where even trees become allies! Sylvester breaks down the complex dynamics between drill instructors and recruits, pointing out the unique balance of fear, respect, and understanding that forges trust and creates warriors.Yet, being a Marine isn’t just about the intensity of the drill school. It’s about overcoming challenges, fostering brotherhood, and carrying an unparalleled sense of pride. This is what we explore with Sylvester as we touch upon the unique mindset required, the pride associated with being a Marine, and the transition from drill instructor back to the fleet. We laugh, we reminisce, and we take in the wisdom shared by Sylvester. You won’t want to miss these raw, authentic, and inspiring stories from the heart of the Marine Corps.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwLContact Adam Gray:Email: agray5730@gmail.comTikTok: @adam41marineFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009814414736
Ep. 15 - Unbreakable Bonds and Timeless Tales: A Tribute to the Marine Corps Brotherhood
Nov 21 2023
Ep. 15 - Unbreakable Bonds and Timeless Tales: A Tribute to the Marine Corps Brotherhood
You know those friendships that stand the test of time? The kind where you can pick up right where you left off, even after years apart? That's the kind of bond Justin Harris and Pete Schuster have built not just on shared experiences but shared trials and triumphs, forged during their time serving together in the Marine Corps. Join us as we walk down memory lane, recounting their deployment to Afghanistan in 2003-2004, their time in Italy and Egypt, and a grueling 40-day stint in a hole without showers. Struggles? Certainly. But, oh, the stories they can tell! But as every marine knows, it's not all about the grit and the grime. There's a lighter side to military life, too, and Justin and Pete have their fair share of hilarious and heartwarming tales to tell. From pranks played to the resilience and humor of front-line soldiers, our guests will have you laughing, crying, and marveling at the unique camaraderie they share. Plus, hear about their return home and how they navigated the transition to civilian life while holding on to the strong bonds formed during their time in service.  Finally, we're bringing the importance of acknowledging and respecting those who came before us to the timeless nature of the Corps, this conversation is a heartfelt tribute to the brotherhood of the Marines on its 248th birthday. Whether you're a veteran, active service member, or a civilian, you're sure to be inspired by the resilience, camaraderie, and humor shared by those who've had the honor of serving.Contact Michael Francis:TikTok: @michaelfrancissbxIG:  @socialbusinessexperienceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialBusinessExperience?mibextid=ZbWKwLContact Adam Gray:Email: agray5730@gmail.comTikTok: @adam41marineFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009814414736