Roll for initiative! In this high-spirited episode, the crew sits down to talk about the games that shaped them—on and off the battlefield. From heated rounds of beer pong in the barracks to late-night strategy battles over Axis & Allies, games have always been a part of the Veteran experience.
But this week isn't just about dice and drinks—we're proud to welcome our keynote speaker for the 2025 Remember Event: John Burk. A no-nonsense Army Infantry Veteran, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and gamer, John brings raw honesty, humor, and energy to everything he touches. Whether you're familiar with his “In the Arena” brand or just hearing him for the first time, you'll understand why we’re fired up to have him speak at Remember.
Games: Then and Now
We talk about:
- Games we played during deployments (some regulation… some not)
- Drinking games that taught us more than just how to chug
- The creative games that built morale when nothing else could
- How gaming has evolved into therapy, connection, and camaraderie in civilian life
John Burk: In His Own Words
In his interview, John shares stories from his time in uniform, insights into why play and laughter matter, and what fuels his passion for the Veteran community. He’s brutally honest, legitimately funny, and deeply committed to serving beyond the uniform.
Gaming Communities & Veteran Nonprofits
We also spotlight gaming orgs doing real work:
- Alpha Nerds Guild – Co-founded by Kenny and John, connecting Vets through gaming
- Warrior Veteran Gamers
- Stack Up – Bringing mental health & gaming together
Looking for Games?
We suggest a few to get the party started at home: Cards Against Humanity, Axis & Allies, Dungeons & Dragons, and a few of our own twisted creations (like Leftdiculous).
Remember 2025 – A Tease
Get ready: this year’s Remember Event is shaping up big.
- Keynote: John Burk
- Live music & community gathering
- Dinner from Chubby Trout & Smoking Fatties – two meats and a dessert
Challenge to Our Listeners
Got a wild game story or a custom Veteran-themed game idea? Send it in! Winners get Common Veterans swag or free Remember tickets.
Next Up: “What Does the Wife Say?”
Next week, we hand the mic to military spouses. Jeff Schrock leads a conversation about their role, resilience, and what it’s really like being married to the military. Don’t miss it.
Cheers to the games that got us through, and the people we played them with.
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