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In this episode, we sit down with Captain Gervy Alota, a decorated Surface Warfare Officer, Naval Academy graduate, and proud son of a Navy Chief. He shares his journey from playing Navy football to commanding multiple amphibious warships and pioneering the Navy’s first LCS Mine Countermeasures Mission Package Detachment. With over two decades of service, Captain Alota reflects on the leadership lessons he’s learned, the role of mentorship and family in his career, and how he stays mission-driven. Now serving as Director of Community Outreach at Navy Recruiting Command, he’s focused on shaping the future force and inspiring the next generation of Navy leaders.

Key Topics:
• Growing up in San Diego as the son of a Navy Chief
• Leadership lessons from the Naval Academy and Navy football
• Life and command at sea: USS Comstock, USS Harpers Ferry, USS John P. Murtha
• Standing up the first LCS MCM Mission Package Detachment
• Influencing the future force from Cheyenne Mountain to Navy Recruiting Command
• Building resilient teams and winning multiple command excellence awards
• Balancing legacy, service, and mentorship

Awards and Recognition:
Captain Alota’s teams have earned the Battle “E” for excellence, Golden Anchor Retention Excellence, and the CNO Safety Award. His personal decorations include:
• Defense Superior Service Medal
• Legion of Merit
• Meritorious Service Medals (multiple)
• Navy and Army Commendation & Achievement Medals

Connect & Learn More:
Stay tuned for more stories of leadership, service, and the people shaping the future of the Navy.

Connect with Gervy - https://www.instagram.com/captaingerv...
His previous S.O.S. episode - https://www.youtube.com/live/p9wBbr4w...

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

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Why is military transition so difficult?

Kerron Andrews captures it perfectly: “It’s the loss of our entire identity.”

For so many of us, the military isn’t just a job—it’s our foundation, our purpose, and at times, the only constant we’ve had. Even when we felt alone, even when we doubted ourselves, service gave us a sense of belonging. So when that chapter ends, it’s not just a career we leave behind—it’s a version of ourselves.

That’s my story. And it’s the story of so many others who dedicate years, even decades, to service.

I’m honored to welcome Kerron Andrews to the Stories of Service podcast. He’s a Navy veteran, TEDx speaker, and now an award-winning filmmaker whose work is helping others navigate the complex path of military transition.

We’ll dive into what inspired his powerful TED Talk, why he chose filmmaking as a second calling, and how he’s using his creative voice to help others reclaim their identity and purpose beyond the uniform.

You won’t want to miss this one.

Find 🔍 more on Kerron’s work - https://trinimanfilms.com/

His powerful Tedx Talk - • Navigating the hidden identity crisis...

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/54498689...

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76

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There’s nothing better than connecting with fellow active duty content creators—especially when they’re active duty senior naval officers! When Andrew first reached out months ago asking how to “do both”—serve our country and show up authentically on social media—I knew he was onto something powerful.

Since then, it’s been amazing to watch his YouTube channel take off, tackling topics like screen addiction, mental health, and so much more with insight and heart. His voice is one the world needs right now.

I’m beyond excited for his episode to drop—join us LIVE this Thursday at 7PM CST for a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Andrew Doan—renowned physician, scientist, and thought leader at the crossroads of medicine, neuroscience, and technology. With dual degrees (M.D./Ph.D.) from Johns Hopkins University and specialized training in ophthalmology, aerospace medicine, and public health, Dr. Doan brings a truly unique perspective to our modern challenges.

Dr. Doan opens up about his groundbreaking work in the field of media and gaming addiction, where he spent three years in full-time research alongside psychiatrists and psychologists. He shares eye-opening insights into how our digital habits impact mental health, brain development, and even our relationships. With over 2,000 healthcare professionals trained worldwide under his guidance, Dr. Doan is on a mission to help people reclaim their time, focus, and well-being.

We also dive into his current work as a full-time ophthalmologist, his popular YouTube channel, and his passion for educating the public on eye health and the psychological effects of screen use.

Tune in to learn:
• What happens to the brain during gaming and media overuse
• Signs and symptoms of tech addiction—and how to address them
• Eye health tips for heavy screen users
• The future of mental wellness in a tech-driven world

Learn more about Dr. Doan:
Website: https://articles.andrew-doan.com
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@DrAndrewDoan

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with anyone navigating technology’s impact on health!

Visit my website: https://thehello.llc/THERESACARPENTER
Read my writings on my blog: https://www.theresatapestries.com/
Listen to other episodes on my podcast: https://storiesofservice.buzzsprout.com
Watch episodes of my podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheresaCarpenter76