Why We Started Pop Smoke — And Why It’s Time for Vets to Pop Off

We didn’t start this podcast to play it safe. We started it because we were sick of the same sanitized conversations, the same watered-down talking points, and the same system that forgot us the second we turned in our gear. We’re not here to be polite. We’re here to speak real — with heat, with heart, and with a hell of a lot of humor.

What “Pop Smoke” Really Means

In the military, “pop smoke” means to signal for extraction. It means you’re ready to move out, to get the hell out of a bad spot, to make your exit known and bold. For us, Pop Smoke is bigger than that.

It’s about getting out of silence. It’s about speaking up about what’s broken. It’s about popping off on the mic, telling the truth, and building something for our brothers and sisters who feel forgotten.

“Pop Smoke. Then Pop Off.” It’s not just a tagline — it’s the mission.

Why We Started the Podcast

We’re veterans who’ve seen the chaos from both sides — the barracks and the civilian world. We’ve lived the dysfunction, the dark humor, and the disillusionment. And like so many others, we’ve asked:

“Where the hell is the space for us to be real?”

That’s why Pop Smoke was born — to give a voice to the stories, rants, and experiences that mainstream veteran media either ignores or sugarcoats. This isn’t boot camp nostalgia. It’s raw, unfiltered, and real. And sometimes, it’s just straight-up ridiculous.

What You Can Expect

We drop a new episode every week — no fluff, no BS. Just three vets (Brad, Ricky, and Jacob) talking about what matters:

• Smoke Checks: Weekly rants about the dumbest things driving us insane

• Barracks Bullshit: Stories that probably shouldn’t be told… but are

• Tactical Takes: Honest breakdowns of military news, current events, and the state of the world

• Veteran Guests: From warfighters to wildcards, we’re bringing them in

You’ll see us on Spotify, YouTube, TikTok, X, and more — with shorts, reels, memes, and merch that say what we’re all thinking.

Join the Firewatch

We’re not building just a podcast. We’re building a movement — a place where vets, active duty, and supporters can laugh, vent, and get loud together.

If you’re tired of feeling like a forgotten number, you’re not alone. Hit subscribe. Share it with your squad. And if you’ve got a story to tell — or a burr up your ass — reach out. This is your Firewatch too.

Pop Smoke. Then Pop Off.