Sometimes, the funniest stories are also the most revealing. Andy Dietrich takes us from his teenage years in Germany to the icy roads of Alaska and eventually into the structured chaos of the Marine Corps. His new book, Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes, is packed with personal stories. Some hilarious, others humbling, but all brutally honest.
This episode digs into why he wrote it, what it means to own your story, and how military experiences, no matter how “unremarkable” they may seem, shape us for life. Whether you’re dealing with transition guilt, wondering if your service was “enough,” or just need a laugh with someone who gets it, this one hits home.
Timestamps
- 04:45 – Where the title Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes comes from
- 10:45 – Why Andy kept his book project a secret until it was done
- 17:00 – Hilarious boot camp stories and being the “Germany” guy
- 24:00 – Feelings of guilt for not deploying after 9/11
- 41:00 – Redefining success after the military and choosing happiness
Links & Resources
- Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
- Website: https://www.andysbook.com
