In this episode of the Liberty Call Podcast, I sit down with Joel “Rod” Rodriguez, a retired U.S. Navy Master Chief who served 31 years and finished his career as the Command Master Chief aboard USS Abraham Lincoln.

Rod and I go back to our time at COMHSCWINGPAC, when I was a Lieutenant and he was a Senior Chief. That shared experience sets the tone for a grounded, honest conversation about leadership, legacy, and life after the uniform.

We talk candidly about:

1. What truly matters in the final years before retirement
2. Common mistakes Sailors make when transitioning out
3. Leadership lessons from the deckplates to the flag level
4. How to mentally prepare for life after the Navy
5. Advice for those already retired and searching for purpose

This episode is packed with real-world wisdom, hard-earned lessons, and straight talk from a Master Chief who’s lived it all—and isn’t sugarcoating a thing.

Whether you’re still serving, nearing retirement, or already retired, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.