Have you ever faced a decision that put your life's passion on pause for the sake of family? Michael Montoya, a former US Marine Corps EOD Technician, joins us with a tale that's far from ordinary, where the battlefield extends beyond the physical realm. He takes us through his early days of military aspiration triggered by a Marine's school visit, to the rigorous EOD training and his abrupt deployment to Iraq. His narrative doesn't stop there; we learn about the sacrifices he made for his family, temporarily stepping away from the minefields of Ukraine to mend his marriage, and his undaunted return to continue his crucial work in emergency services.

The scars of war are not always visible. In a heartfelt recount, Michael shares the moment his life was nearly claimed by a mine strike. He talks about the instinctive reach for his tourniquet, the rush of aid from nearby comrades, and the surprising humor found amidst the life-or-death chaos. His story is a raw look into the reality of conflict zones and the unwavering spirit of those who serve, as we follow his journey from the emergency response in Ukraine to the harrowing medical procedures in Germany.

Yet, amid adversity, growth emerges. As we pivot to the future, we examine the development of a specialized training organization dedicated to EOD and emergency response. With a vision to establish a school that follows International Mine Action Standards, we discuss the challenges of building capacity and collaboration in this field. Steve Cassidy, another EOD veteran and entrepreneur, joins to discuss expanding his EOD Gear business and its impact on the global community. Together, these stories encapsulate the innovation and resilience that define the EOD community, at home and across the world.

The New Way to Train and Buy Gear!

Have you ever been a Plank Owner? There's only 1 chance to be a Plank Owner.

Join us on a unique journey with authors Joe Shaffer III and Dr. Paula Green as they reveal the inspiration behind their book "Unsung". Venture into the thrilling experiences of the Navy EOD community, a story brought to life by interviewing 47 individuals - from operators to their families. Discover the compelling ties to Navy EOD. Brace yourself for a conversation filled with unexpected turns that will leave you inspired and intrigued about the Navy EOD community. 

In the second part of our compelling dialogue, we delve deeper into the impact of their book, "Unsung". Joe and Paula share captivating stories about how Commodore Rojas's unwavering support played a pivotal role in their journey. They enlighten us on their innovative fundraising strategies for two foundations and their aspirational plans to support the military more. Get ready to be captivated by inspiring anecdotes, clearly depicting their deep connection with the Navy EOD community. Don't miss out on their future plans for promoting the book and their commitment to giving back. This is a conversation you wouldn't want to miss - join us!

Steve Cassidy hosts SVP Ulf Ritsvall on NEXT Biometrics to discuss vulnerabilities in biometrics and how to correct those deficiencies.

If you work with or around HME's, HAZMAT or Meth labs, don't miss out on hearing great ways to expand the capabilities of your agency or department.

Here's the update from EOD operations in Ukraine.  Michael Montoya USMC, EOD, Stu Miller USA 12B and now Trevor Kirton, British Para and now IMAS 3 talk about working the fields in Ukraine.

Want to work in Ukraine or donate to help the team out?  Checkout https://www.sonsoflibertyinternational.com/

Welcome to EOD Gear Improvised, the podcast that explores the world of explosive ordnance disposal and the gear and techniques used by EOD technicians. I’m your host, Steve Cassidy, and in this episode, we’ll be discussing the important work of humanitarian demining in Ukraine.

Joining me today are two experts in the field, Michael Montoya and Stu Miller. Michael is a retired US Army EOD technician who has been working in humanitarian demining for the past 15 years, and Stu is a demining specialist with extensive experience in the Ukraine.

In this episode, we’ll be exploring the challenges of demining in a humanitarian context, where the focus is on clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance in order to allow communities to rebuild and develop. We’ll also be discussing the specific situation in Ukraine, where ongoing conflict has left large areas contaminated with explosive remnants of war.

Michael and Stu will be sharing their experiences of working in the field, including the technologies and techniques used to identify and clear explosive hazards, as well as the challenges of working in a post-conflict environment where there is often limited access to resources and infrastructure.

We’ll also be discussing the important role that EOD technicians play in building relationships with local communities, and the importance of effective communication and community engagement in ensuring that demining efforts are successful and sustainable.

Throughout the episode, we’ll be taking a closer look at the gear and equipment used by EOD technicians in the field, including specialized tools for identifying and disposing of explosive hazards, as well as protective gear to ensure their safety in a high-risk environment.

By the end of this episode, listeners will have gained a deeper understanding of the important work of humanitarian demining, and the vital role played by EOD technicians in making communities safer and more resilient.

So, join us for this fascinating discussion on EOD Gear Improvised, where we’ll be exploring the world of humanitarian demining in the Ukraine with Michael Montoya and Stu Miller.

Help Michael and Stu continue their mission. Click on https://www.sonsoflibertyinternational.com/missions/mine-action/

Dr. Kim Beng Phar discusses the dynamics of what is really happening in China and how that is going to impact the Military, Diplomatic, Geo-Political and Economic relationships.  

Phar Kim Beng, Ph.D.,  https://www.drpharkimbeng.com/ is the Founder CEO of Strategic Pan Indo-Pacific Arena; and Echo Strategic Insight. He is a former Head Teaching Fellow (Fall 2018- Summer 2021)who has received numerous teaching and writing awards at Harvard University, while concurrently serving as the Senior Writer for The Straits Times, Singapore, while also awarded the Earnhart Foundation Fellowship. Prior to that, he was the Visiting Fellow of the Japan International Institute of International Affairs, which is affiliated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Although his advanced research had always focused on Track 1; Track 1.75; Track 2 and Track 3 Dialogue. His Ph.D. at Meiji University Japan was on "Origins of the ASEAN Regional Forum 1993/1994 and the Dawn of the Indo--Pacific Age in 2017. He is able to distinguish the difference between Freedom of Indo-Pacific Ocean and Indo--Pacific Strategy, with the latter having more martial elements under the sea and in space. Phar Kim Beng, Ph.D., is an Associate Fellow of Edx.org; United Nations University's International Leadership Academy in Jordan; Salzburg Fellow in Austria and advises the chairwoman on the Reform of Resilience.