Today, the Scuttlebutt podcast returns with a LIVE episode focused on one of the most pressing and complex questions facing State Defense Forces across the country. This special broadcast will air today at 6:30 PM EST, continuing the podcast’s commitment to in-depth, candid discussions on the evolving role, structure, and future direction of State Defense Forces nationwide.
This episode will be hosted by Major (GA–Retired) Beverly Shepard alongside Combat Veteran Major General (TX–Retired) Anthony Woods. Bringing decades of combined experience from both the U.S. Army and State Defense Forces, at both operational and strategic levels, the hosts will lead a critical discussion centered on the question: At what point does expanding State Defense Force mission scope become counterproductive without the necessary funding, staffing, or statutory authority? The conversation will explore the risks of overextension, the realities of resource limitations, and how states can balance mission growth with sustainable support structures.
This episode will be hosted by Major (GA–Retired) Beverly Shepard alongside Major General (TX–Retired) Anthony Woods. Bringing decades of combined experience from both the U.S. Army and State Defense Forces, at both operational and strategic levels, the hosts will lead a critical discussion centered on the question: At what point does expanding State Defense Force mission scope become counterproductive without the necessary funding, staffing, or statutory authority? The conversation will explore the risks of overextension, the realities of resource limitations, and how states can balance mission growth with sustainable support structures.
Unlike previous episodes, this LIVE broadcast will be conducted exclusively on Zoom and will be limited to Patreon members. This shift reflects a necessary pivot to ensure the long-term sustainability of Scuttlebutt, as funding is required to support the staff, editing team, hosts, and overall production and hosting costs that make the podcast possible. By moving to a member-supported live format, the organization can continue delivering consistent, high-quality content while supporting the personnel behind it.
Patreon members will not only gain access to this exclusive LIVE recording, but will also be able to actively participate during the session. Through the Zoom chat, supporters can engage directly with the hosts, provide feedback on the topic, and contribute their perspectives in real time as the discussion unfolds. This creates a more interactive and collaborative environment that reflects the real-world experiences and concerns of the State Defense Force community.
This member supported format reflects the continued growth of Scuttlebutt as a platform for serious dialogue within the State Defense Force community. By supporting the podcast, Patreon members help sustain ongoing coverage, interviews, and reporting conducted by StateDefenseForce.com, while also gaining a more direct voice in shaping the conversation.
StateDefenseForce.com encourages Patreon supporters to join the live session this evening and take part in the discussion as Scuttlebutt continues its mission of delivering informed, transparent conversations on the challenges and future of State Defense Forces.
To join the LIVE Episode – Click Here to Become a Corporal Tier Member of Patreon
If you are already a Corporal Tier Member or Higher – Click Here To Get The Join Invite

