In the 153rd episode of the S.O.S. podcast, guests Roger Vogel and Dan Baker share their journey from military service to creating the Tracer Burnout podcast. They discuss the importance of storytelling among veterans and how their experiences shaped their mission to ensure that no veteran's story goes unheard.
Meet our Guest: Roger Vogel and Dan Baker
Roger Vogel and Dan Baker are the hosts of the Tracer Burnout podcast, dedicated to sharing the stories of veterans and bridging the gap between military and civilian life. With backgrounds in the Army and a passion for storytelling, they aim to create a community where every veteran's experience is valued and heard.
Roger, an Army brat, grew up in various locations, including El Paso and West Germany. He joined the Army in 2004 as a Field Artilleryman, serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. His experiences abroad shaped his perspective on military life and the importance of community.
Dan, who spent over 20 years in the Army, held various positions from infantry rifleman to Drill Sergeant. His journey through different assignments in the U.S. and Europe provided him with a wealth of experiences that he now shares through the podcast.
š Key Takeaways
The significance of sharing personal stories for veterans and their families.
How the Tracer Burnout podcast aims to bridge the civilian-military divide.
Tips for veterans interested in starting their own podcasts.
The Importance of Storytelling
Roger and Dan emphasize that sharing stories is crucial for veterans, active duty members, and their families. It not only helps in processing experiences but also fosters a sense of community. By sharing their own stories, they aim to humanize the military experience and create a platform for others to do the same.
Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
Both hosts discuss their transitions from military to civilian life. Dan's transition was during the COVID-19 lockdowns, which made it challenging to access resources and support. He took time to decompress and focus on personal growth, reading extensively and enjoying his newfound freedom.
Roger, on the other hand, is currently transitioning and reflects on the challenges of balancing family life with his new career path. He emphasizes the importance of having a support system during this time.
The Birth of the Tracer Burnout Podcast
The idea for the Tracer Burnout podcast stemmed from Dan's frustration with how veterans were portrayed in the media. He wanted to create a platform that accurately represented their experiences. When Roger reached out with the idea of starting a podcast, they quickly realized they shared a common goal.
The name "Tracer Burnout" symbolizes the guiding light of military service that eventually fades, much like a tracer round. It reflects their mission to ensure that the stories of veterans continue to shine even after their service ends.
Tips for Aspiring Podcasters
Roger and Dan offer valuable advice for veterans interested in starting their own podcasts:
Find Your Passion: Choose a topic that resonates with you and your experiences.
Start Small: Don’t be afraid to begin with basic equipment and gradually improve your setup.
Engage with Your Audience: Build a community by interacting with listeners and encouraging them to share their stories.
Stay Consistent: Regularly release episodes to keep your audience engaged.
Listen to Audio
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Conclusion
The Tracer Burnout podcast serves as a vital resource for veterans and civilians alike, fostering understanding and connection. By sharing their stories, Roger and Dan not only honor their own experiences but also create a space for others to do the same. Their journey exemplifies the power of storytelling in bridging the civilian-military divide and ensuring that every veteran's service matters.
