In this unfiltered, no-holds-barred episode of Rise.Run., your favorite chaotic veteran host finally sits down with the one and only Zack “Uncaged” Roe Williams — entrepreneur, mentor, and living proof that pain is often the birthplace of purpose. What starts off as whiskey-fueled banter quickly spirals into a raw and powerful origin story, as Zack opens up about everything from being homeschooled and growing up as the oldest of five, to building a multimillion-dollar marketing career — only to get blindsided by personal betrayal that would break most men.

He shares how his childhood shaped his relentless mindset, what it really takes to break the mold of the W-2 lifestyle, and how starting a t-shirt company with friends turned into a full-blown movement. This is the beginning of a story so wild, it couldn’t possibly fit in one episode — so buckle up, because this is only part one.

⚡ Topics Covered:

• How a homeschool misfit built a global brand from graphic tees

• The dark reality behind Zack’s first marriage and brutal betrayal

• The problem with the school system (and why ADHD was a clue, not a curse)

• A near-fatal turning point that changed everything (coming soon in Part 2)

🎧 Strap in. This ride’s just getting started.

In this raw, hilarious, and thought-provoking episode, host Alan sits down with veteran, nurse, and proud Filipino J.R. Arce to dig into everything from cultural stereotypes and childhood trauma to the generational pursuit of the American dream.

They laugh (a lot) about the stereotype that every Filipino becomes a nurse, but also dive deep into the real reasons behind that cultural norm—family sacrifice, immigrant survival, and dreams passed down. J.R. shares his story of becoming a nurse through the Army ROTC program, serving around the world, transitioning into public affairs, and ultimately co-founding a marketing agency.

The conversation covers everything from Filipino nicknames and food, to raising kids in America, to pivoting careers after the military. Expect some spicy language, some unexpected inspiration, and a heavy dose of humor as two veterans shoot it straight on culture, purpose, and building something beyond the box they were put in.

Warning: Not for the easily offended, but definitely for those who like their truth served with lumpia and a side of laughter.

🎙️ Rise to Run Podcast – Episode 12: “Crayon Jokes, Marine Corps Culture, and the Rise of Taiwo” Guest: Victor De La Flor

In this wildly entertaining and unfiltered episode, host Alan—your favorite chaos-driven, probably-should-be-in-a-psych-ward veteran—welcomes Marine Corps veteran Victor De La Flor to the show. From the jump, it’s jokes, jabs, and genuine insight as the two vets unpack military culture, the mysterious origins of the infamous “crayon-eating Marine” stereotype, and the inside scoop on what it’s really like serving in today’s armed forces.

Victor brings sharp humor and real-life perspective to the mic, sharing how the crayon-eating joke went from obscure internet lore to edible merchandise—thanks to another Marine who turned the joke into a full-blown business. They also dig into the changing landscape of military ranks, how “Taiwo” became slang for Chief Warrant Officer, and the cultural quirks that make the Marine Corps one of a kind.

With stories from both their time in service and reflections on how things have shifted over the last decade, this episode delivers laughs, relatable moments, and a touch of old-school military wisdom. Whether you served, know someone who did, or just want a raw and ridiculous take on veteran life—you’re in for a damn good time.