Drive On: Helping Veterans Navigate PTSD & Life After Military Service

The Selfless Path To Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Military transition can strip away structure, identity, and the sense that your life is aimed at something that matters. This conversation follows what happened when that loss of purpose collided with anxiety, PTSD, and the frustration of trying to build a meaningful civilian life. The story moves from feeling disconnected after service to finding direction through advocacy, community involvement, and one of the most selfless decisions a person can make.

Lindsay Gutierrez shares how she became part of the first living donor chain in VA history, what led her to donate a kidney, and why she later chose to donate part of her liver as well. She also explains the part most people never see: the recovery, the emotions after surgery, and the lack of long-term support donors can face once the procedure is over.

This episode matters because it puts real language around purpose after service. It shows how service can continue in civilian life, how meaning can be rebuilt through action, and why healing often requires both sacrifice and support. It also brings attention to the policy and psychosocial gaps Lindsay is working to address through her doctoral research, so future donors are not left to navigate the aftermath alone.

If you have ever left the military and felt unanchored, this conversation offers a clear message: purpose is not gone, but it may need to be rebuilt in a new form.

Timestamps:

06:30: The identity hit after separation and the fight to redefine herself
12:30: The VA living donor chain milestone
21:05: Becoming a dual living donor
25:30: The emotional crash after donation
34:45: Transition advice

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.lindsaygutierrez.com/
Follow Lindsay Gutierrez on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingtoservethroughdonation/
Follow Lindsay Gutierrez on Instagram: https://instagram.com/linds_gutierrez
Follow Lindsay Gutierrez on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayngutierrez
End Kidney Deaths Website: https://www.endkidneydeathsact.org/
Congressional link: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2687/text

Turning PTSD Into Creative Work

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000

PTSD does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like overthinking, staying busy, and trying to keep your mind from going places you do not want it to go. This conversation is about what happens when a veteran finds a healthier outlet and actually commits to it.

Ken Webb talks about leaving the cycle of contract work behind, building a new life in Peru, and using writing to deal with fear, betrayal, and stress that did not disappear after service. He gets into the discipline it took to finish a novel, why he wrote the first draft by hand, and how reading and writing forced him to slow down and focus. He also shares how parts of his book were pulled from real experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, along with the personal betrayal that pushed him to finally get the story out.

This episode will connect with veterans who feel stuck in their own head, miss having a mission, or need a reminder that productive work can still be part of healing. It is honest, grounded, and useful. It also gives a clear look at how creative work can help someone process what happened without pretending the past never happened.

Timestamps:

00:03:15 - He decides to stop waiting and start living
00:08:39 - The hard truth about PTSD and the past
00:11:15 - Why writing the villain was cathartic
00:21:30 - Ken talks honestly about fear in Iraq
00:30:31 - His advice for any veteran who wants to write

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.kenwebb69.com
Follow Ken Webb on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574048104781
Follow Ken Webb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/webbinator2000/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Paragliding Recovery for Wounded Warriors

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0000

A missed bus. A dead phone. Smoke over lower Manhattan. A life that should have ended at work that morning went in a completely different direction, and years later, it turned into a mission to help wounded warriors feel alive again.

This conversation carries the weight of 9/11, the long shadow of war, and the hard truth that many veterans come home with pain nobody around them fully understands. It also brings something a lot of men need to hear. That healing does not always begin in a clinic or an office. Sometimes it starts when someone builds a place where veterans can breathe, move, and remember they still have a future.

Lyubim Kogan shares how surviving the 9/11 attacks in New York City shaped the way he sees service and sacrifice, why the Red Cross became a major inspiration in his life, and how Wings 4 Heroes grew from a paragliding idea into a hands-on mission that includes physical therapy, community, and a deeper sense of purpose. Scott also opens up about grief after losing his brother in Afghanistan, the slow slide into anger and self-destruction, and the moment he finally reached for help.

For veterans carrying loss, transition stress, survivor's guilt, or the feeling that nobody gets it, this episode might be what you were looking for. You will walk away with a stronger sense that recovery can take many forms, that support is out there even if you don't see it, and that one person taking action can change far more lives than you think.

Timestamps:

00:07:52 - The missed bus that kept him out of the towers
00:29:06 - How the Red Cross changed the way he sees service
00:39:00 - Scott explains how grief wrecked his life after Afghanistan
00:47:07 - The veteran resources too many people still do not know about
00:53:21 - How paragliding and physical therapy became Wings 4 Heroes

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.wings4heroes.org
Follow Wings 4 Heroes on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wings4heroes
Follow Wings 4 Heroes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wings4heroes

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

What Keeps Vets Alive After Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000

The stress does not stay at work. It follows you into your sleep, your marriage, and your patience with your kids. Guest, Johnnie Gilpen, talks about a stretch in pediatric emergency medicine where he lost six kids in a short time and had to face a direct question from a colleague about how he was coping. He explains the three supports he relies on: faith, three people he can call without hesitation, and counseling plus honest conversation. He connects it to a simple military idea, the three-man foxhole, and shows how to set that up in civilian life so you are not isolated when things get heavy. He closes with writing and storytelling, including Warhorse Journal, and how putting events on paper can help your spouse understand what you have not been able to say out loud.

Timestamps:

03:15: Losing six kids fast and the coping question
04:45: The three supports he uses every time
06:15: A Vietnam-era dad and the cost of staying silent
11:00: Building a three-person call list and using it early
28:30: Writing small stories that change home life

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.johnniegilpen.com
Follow Johnnie Gilpen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnniegilpen/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Veteran Uses Poetry To Process

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000

A civilian job can pay well and still leave a veteran feeling irritated and restless by the end of the day. Alan Brown breaks down the parts of military life that disappear first after retirement: the uniform, the PT, the daily contact with soldiers, and the built in group that understands the standard without a long explanation. He retired in January 2020 after 23 years in the Army, and he describes the mix of frustration and trial and error that followed while he searched for work that felt like it mattered. The conversation also gets practical. Alan explains how he uses writing as a focused way to slow down and sort out memories from active duty and the pressure of family life. He spent the summer of 2025 revising poems he wrote years earlier, then published a collection in September 2025 on Amazon titled When the Uniform No Longer Fits: Reflections on Military Service, Family, and Being a Veteran. Many of the poems are autobiographical and written for veterans, active duty service members, and family members who want a clearer view of what service leaves behind. Key moments are below.

Timestamps:

01:30: Retired after 23 years and still sorting out the next job
08:12: The loss of camaraderie
16:30: Working at full speed while coworkers move slower and the anger that builds
17:00: Writing started in college and turned into a way to put thoughts on the page
35:52: When the Uniform No Longer Fits

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
When the Uniform No Longer Fits Book: https://www.amazon.com/When-Uniform-Longer-Fits-Reflections/dp/B0FSYTQ777/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Good Death Starts Today

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Hospitals can strip you down fast, not just physically, but mentally. You walk in hurting, and the system can make you feel lucky to be there at all. Dr. Pamela Pyle trained inside a VA hospital where camaraderie filled open wards, and she has spent decades watching what helps people fight for better care, and what quietly breaks them.

This conversation gets practical fast: why the first answer is often no, how to push past it, how to get a second opinion, and how to walk in with a plan so you do not leave feeling powerless.

Then it turns personal and heavy in the best way, with the moment a dying patient gave her a phrase that changed everything: a good death is built by how you live right now. If you are carrying depression, PTSD, or that numb, isolated feeling where it takes everything just to make it to tomorrow, you will also hear real treatment hope, plus a peer-to-peer tool built for the moments when talking to your spouse or a clinician feels impossible.

Timestamps:

14:30 - The "stripping" effect that steals your control the moment you enter the system
17:00 - Knowledge is power, the questions that change your care and your confidence
19:45 - A patient's final words that reshaped how to live with purpose now
31:30 - PTSD and depression treatment hope, including EMDR and newer options she's seeing
32:45 - White Flag App, peer support in your lane when you need an assist right away

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://drpamela.com
Follow Pamela Pyle on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drpamelapyle
Follow Pamela Pyle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpamelapyle/
Follow Pamela Pyle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-prince-pyle-48323028/
White Flag App: https://www.whiteflagapp.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

TAPS Suicide Prevention And Postvention

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Home should feel like the safe part. For many veterans, it is the opposite. The noise is gone, the mission is gone, and the people around you might not know how to read the signs when you are running low. That is where isolation starts, and isolation is where things can get dangerous fast.

This conversation pulls you into the real stakes of suicide prevention through the eyes of someone who has lived the aftermath. You will hear why suicide loss hits far beyond one household, why "I do not want to say the wrong thing" keeps too many of us quiet, and how a simple, direct question can create enough space for a crisis to settle. Carla also shares how her own story began: a young Marine wife, pregnant, then suddenly a widow, trying to survive grief, trauma, and a community that did not know what to do with suicide loss.

If you have ever worried about a buddy, a spouse, a coworker, or yourself, this gives you a grounded way to think about the next right move. You do not need a title or a uniform to help save a life. You need connection, a willingness to ask, and a plan to get to the next level of support.

Timestamps:

07:45: One death, 135 people impacted, and why that number changes how you show up
17:30: Pregnant, widowed, and suddenly alone, how suicide loss cut her off from the community
26:30: "Are you thinking about suicide?" Why asking it out loud is the turning point
36:59: The myth that "nothing can stop it," and what actually helps in a crisis
52:39: The Military Mentor Program, purpose and connection for veterans who want to give back

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.TAPS.org
Follow TAPS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TAPSorg/
Follow TAPS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tapsorg
Follow TAPS on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/tapsorg
Follow TAPS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tragedy-assistance-program-for-survivors/
Follow TAPS on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/tapsorg
Follow Carla Stumpf Patton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-stumpf-patton-edd-lmhc-1a242936

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Free VA Eye Care Most Vets Don’t Know About

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0000

A lot of veterans grind through blurry vision, eye strain, and overpriced frames because nobody ever told them the VA can cover eye exams and prescription glasses. This episode puts that benefit in plain language, straight from a fellow infantryman who now runs the operation that fills millions of prescriptions for veterans each year. You will hear how Sean Loosen moved from West Point to Iraq, felt the culture shock of civilian work, and eventually stepped into leading PDS Optical, a company built around Pride, Dignity, and Service.

Then the conversation locks onto the practical stuff veterans actually need, including who qualifies for VA eye care, how the VA workflow moves from optometrist to optician, and why the process can be smoother and faster than most people expect. It closes with a look at what it means to serve beyond the job, including their Honor Flight sponsorship.

Timestamps:

04:15 - The VA glasses benefit
06:09 - Civilian culture shock and finding purpose again
14:00 - Eligibility based on service-connected disability and the PACT Act ripple
22:15 - Fast turnaround times
26:15 - Honor Flight sponsorship and the emotion behind giving back

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://pdsoptical.com/
VA Vision Care Information: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/vision-care/
Follow Sean Loosen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-loosen/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Four Ways Veterans Can Serve Again

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

The hardest part of transition is not always the job search. It is the moment you realize the mission feeling did not automatically follow you home. This conversation is a reset for that. You will hear a clear, practical way to turn veteran strengths into local impact without burning out, starting with the Four Ts of true changemaking: time, talent, treasure, and testimony. The examples are grounded and real, from mentoring to board service, from small civic habits to the kind of logistics thinking that can take a nonprofit line from a long wait to a quick, efficient flow. The episode also goes deeper than volunteering. It gets into values alignment, purpose beyond titles, and emotional intelligence as a resilience skill you can train. The finish is a simple 30-day approach that starts with awareness, moves into small action, then self-regulation, and finally connection with other people, so service becomes a steady habit.

Timestamps:

03:17 - The Four Ts that make service possible again
05:28 - Why veterans quietly transform nonprofits with execution and logistics
15:00 - The volunteer crisis and the veteran-sized solution
31:33 - Emotional intelligence as a resilience skill you can build
45:00 - The 30-day changemaker plan from zero to momentum

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: http://www.meetsuzanne.com/
Follow Suzanne Smith on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SocialImpactArchitects
Follow Suzanne Smith on Instagram: https://instagram.com/socialtrendspot
Follow Suzanne Smith on Twitter/X: https://x.com/snstexas & https://x.com/socialtrendspot

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Migraine and Headache Care for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Headache pain can look like a minor annoyance until it starts stealing whole days. For many veterans, it is not a random ache that fades with water and a nap. It can be a complex, repeating neurological problem that shows up after exposures, stress, disrupted sleep, or injuries that never fully healed.

This episode walks through why headaches and migraines hit the veteran community so hard, why the root cause often gets missed, and how to stop walking into appointments empty-handed. You will hear how the National Headache Foundation built Operation Brainstorm to make resources easier to find and use, including stories from veterans who live with this every day.

The takeaway from this episode is treat this like a mission. Track attacks, document patterns, identify triggers, and bring a clean record to a dedicated appointment that stays focused on headache care. The conversation also covers the differences between preventive and abortive meds, how to advocate for referrals when primary care reaches its limits, and why specialized care, like the VA Headache Centers of Excellence, matters, especially for the hardest cases. This is for anyone tired of powering through and ready to build a plan that respects work, family, and the reality of living with pain.

Timestamps:

01:47 - One third of veterans live with headaches and migraines
06:15 - Hundreds of headache types and why the label matters
09:45 - Cluster headache severity and the hidden days before head pain
13:45 - Build a plan, track patterns, walk in prepared
34:45 - VA Headache Centers of Excellence and the access fight

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Websites:
- https://www.operationbrainstorm.org/
- https://headaches.org/taking-charge/
Follow National Headache Foundation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalHeadacheFoundation
Follow National Headache Foundation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalheadachefoundation/
Follow National Headache Foundation on Twitter: https://x.com/nhf
Follow National Headache Foundation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-headache-foundation/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Document Everything When Trust Breaks

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

One report can flip your whole world upside down, especially when the people who promised support start calculating what your truth costs their careers. Chelsey Woodard shares what it felt like to go from a strong first stretch of service to a back half defined by retaliation, bureaucracy, and leaders choosing self-protection over accountability. She breaks down the tactics she saw up close: being pushed into a corner, being watched, being baited into mistakes, and having paperwork used as a weapon to build a "problem" narrative.

Chelsey explains the moves that helped her hold herself together when the pressure spiked: document every conversation, send follow-up emails, keep copies in multiple places, use leave as recovery time, and find a place that calms your body so your mind stays sharp. She also talks about why the Vet Center felt safer than on-base options, and what it was like to set a hard boundary during SkillBridge when a civilian workplace started echoing the same patterns she was trying to escape.

Timestamps:

00:03:05: Reporting and realizing the system protects careers first
00:04:15: Expedited transfer and an IG conclusion that changed nothing
00:07:09: The survival playbook: document everything and control the paper trail
00:14:15: How the Vet Center provided breathing room
00:21:00: SkillBridge fell apart fast

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Wounded Warrior Project Help That Works

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Sleep breaks down, pain turns constant, and the mind keeps running like it never got the memo that the mission is over. This conversation follows what it looks like to claw your way back when the body is hurting, the nights are loud, and isolation starts to feel normal.

Rowdie McMahon shares her experience as an Air Force nurse deployed to Afghanistan, including the relentless pace and mass casualty reality, and how that pressure followed her home. She opens up about chronic pain, years on heavy medications, and the slow work of tapering off while staying engaged with mental health support. From there, the story shifts to what finally helped: Wounded Warrior Project programs, small steps back into community, and a surprising turning point through racing, building cars with other veterans, and putting 988 and the Veterans Crisis Line on the car as part of the mission.

Timestamps:

00:02:15: Mass casualty chaos and zero time to process it all
00:09:00: Nightmares, sleep fights, and realizing it is time to get help
00:19:08: Not all wounds are visible, the call that opened the door to support
00:26:09: Pickleball, sunlight, and the first step back into community
00:53:03: Putting 988 on a race car and why racing saved her life

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Rowdie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowdie988/
Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Nature Therapy For Combat Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Walking away from the uniform often means walking away from purpose, identity, and your tribe all at once. In this conversation, retired Marine Colonel Brian Gilman shares how his own unexpected orders to a Pentagon reintegration office opened his eyes to what veterans really need after service and eventually led him home to Montana to lead Warriors and Quiet Waters. He breaks down their nine-month Built For More program, in which post-9/11 combat veterans spend two-week immersions in the Montana backcountry, with fly fishing, hunting, or photography as "co-facilitators," and six months of guided work at home focused on purpose, community, and thriving.

You will hear Brian explain what actually happens to your brain and body in nature, why light focus activities can trigger those shower epiphanies, and how journaling and small peer cohorts of eight vets give you space to finally process what happened and what comes next. He shares real-world outcome data, including significant gains in purpose, sleep, and connection, and explains why strong relationships beat money and status for long-term well-being. If you are a post-9/11 vet in a civilian job who misses the platoon more than you can explain and wants a roadmap for a life that feels worth getting up for, this one is dialed in for you.

Timestamps:

01:12 - 27 years in the Marines
04:18 - About Warriors and Quiet Waters
09:32 - The science of nature and why your brain relaxes outside
14:05 - Inside the 9-month Built For More program
27:10 - Why strong relationships keep vets alive

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.warriorsandquietwaters.org/
Follow Warriors and Quiet Waters on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wqwMontana/timeline
Follow Warriors and Quiet Waters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorsandquietwaters/
Follow Brian Gilman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilmanbrian/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Plant Medicine And Veteran Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Pain meds after surgery were supposed to help her heal, not take over her life. Years of prescriptions following a C-section, miscarriages, and unresolved childhood sexual trauma quietly turned into addiction, shame, and a double life that looked perfect on the outside while crumbling on the inside. When everything finally imploded, Shannon said yes to help, went to The Meadows in Arizona, and started the hard work of sobriety, inner child healing, and facing what she had been trying to numb for years.

In this conversation, Shannon talks with Scott about why addiction is a symptom, not an identity, and why shame and silence keep so many vets stuck. She shares how she supports veterans, including her own partner, who survived a suicide attempt, by creating judgment-free spaces, normalizing dark thoughts, and asking the real question: why would dying feel easier than speaking up. From powerful inner child work and self-forgiveness to psychedelic-assisted healing with iboga at Ayo Life Sciences in Mexico, Shannon explains how some veterans are reducing PTSD, TBI symptoms, and pill loads while rebuilding a new sense of purpose after the uniform. They close with simple daily practices like gratitude lists, reframing painful experiences, and finding new missions through retreats and coaching that help vets move from fight-or-flight into a life that actually feels worth staying in.

Timestamps:

00:01:35 - When Shannon's perfect life implodes, and she finally says yes to help
00:06:02 - Miscarriages, childhood trauma, and how prescriptions became her coping strategy
00:08:20 - Addiction as a symptom and why she refuses to shame anyone for using it to cope
00:26:35 - Inner child work, protecting the little boy who never felt safe, and why vets struggle to see themselves as worthy of love
00:31:18 - Iboga plant medicine in Mexico, massive shifts for PTSD and TBI, and why preparation and safety matter so much

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.angelgoddesshealing.com
Follow Shannon Curtis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angel.goddess.healing
Follow Shannon Curtis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelgoddesshealing

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Operation Resilience Fighting Veteran Suicide

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Coming home was supposed to be the safe part. For the 1st Battalion 17th Infantry, it did not work out that way. They lost 22 soldiers during their 2009 to 2010 Afghanistan deployment, then as many more after returning home. At one funeral, a soldier finally said what many were thinking: "When is someone going to do something about this?" That question pushed former platoon leader Adam Swift to start searching for an answer in the middle of the night, which led him to The Independence Fund and its unit retreat program, Operation Resilience.

Scott sits down with Adam and Independence Fund Deputy Chief of Operations Steven Rozina to hear how Operation Resilience brings entire units back together for a long weekend. Flights are covered, the veteran pays nothing, and the schedule blends fun sober events like NASCAR and hockey with long, guided clinical sessions. Units literally map out their deployment, from pre-mob through the worst days downrange and into life back home, finally talking through firefights, IED blasts, and moral injuries they have carried alone for years.

Adam shares what it was like to watch brothers he had not seen in 15 years walk out of the hotel elevators, and how The Independence Fund quietly recreated the teepee memorial from their FOB so the unit could honor their fallen around a final-night bonfire. You will also hear exactly how to get your own unit considered for Operation Resilience and why you do not need to be in command to step up and start the process.

Timestamps:

00:03:30: The suicide funeral that sparked Operation Resilience and a hard decision to say no more
00:09:30: Adam realizes being home feels more dangerous than Afghanistan after losing 22 more brothers
00:15:15: Inside the marathon clinical session, where the unit spends eight hours walking through their deployment
00:17:45: Elevators open, brothers step out, and a battalion reconnects after 15 years apart
00:49:15: Scott's challenge to listeners to be the one who steps up and brings their unit to Operation Resilience

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
The Independence Fund Website: https://independencefund.org/
Operation Resilience: https://independencefund.org/pages/operation-resiliency
Follow The Independence Fund on X: https://twitter.com/indyfund
Follow The Independence Fund on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheIndependenceFund/
Follow The Independence Fund on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independencefund/
Follow The Independence Fund on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-independence-fund/
Follow The Independence Fund on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUrXtHO1C7HiGNSoOfWlqwg
Follow Adam Swift on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-swift-281a688b/
Follow Adam Swift on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adam.swift.940
17th Infantry Association: https://www.17thinfantry.org/

Transcript

Timestamps:

02:30: From Marine infantry and TBI to unexpected entrepreneurship
08:45: Launching Honor Bound FIT in a parking lot on Memorial Day
13:10: How GUIDON22 turns rucks and stories into suicide awareness
21:20: Passing on your pain vs letting your tribe carry it with you
33:40: Creative ruck events, community impact, and how to get involved

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.HonorBoundFIT.com
Follow Rich Brown on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsRichBrown
Follow Rich Brown on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisrichbrown
Follow Rich Brown on Twitter/X: https://www.x.com/@sheepdogalpha1
Follow Rich Brown on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheepdogalpha/

Transcript

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Blue Collar Comeback For Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Warrior Haven USA offers veterans a different path after service: valuable skills, work experience, and a solid income without being pushed into college and a cubicle. Retired Navy SEAL and CEO Marty Strong explains how he joined his Marine Recon friend on a Florida horse farm to build a program that blends a virtual business academy, woodworking and metal shops, a culinary track, and partnerships with equine therapy and service dog groups.

Through short experiences, multi-week courses, and full apprenticeships, vets learn in-demand trades, challenge the myth that only degrees lead to success, practice humility, and approach transition like serious training, gaining purpose, confidence, and a new mission.

Timestamps:

03:45 Challenging the college-only version of the American dream
07:27 Inside Warrior Haven USA and life on the horse farm
17:00 Three levels from therapy day to paid apprenticeship
30:05 Building the Harry Sargent Veterans Vocational Center
37:10 Tough love on humility, offices, and starting at the bottom again

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Warriors Haven USA Website: https://www.warriorshavenusa.com
Follow Warriors Haven USA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WarriorsHavenUSA/
Follow Warriors Haven USA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorshavenusa/
Follow Warriors Haven USA on Twitter/X: https://x.com/warriorshavenus
Other links: https://www.martystrong.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Christmas Thoughts and Easier Access to Support

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

This Christmas episode slows things down for a moment and acknowledges how the season can affect everyone differently.

Scott shares a straightforward holiday message and introduces a new chatbot on the Drive On website that can help you find support without digging through years of episodes. Whether you are dealing with stress, old injuries, sleep issues, or trouble staying connected at home, the chatbot can point you toward conversations that may help. You will also hear how to submit topics or share your own story if you want to be part of a future episode.

Scott also talks about the return to a weekly Tuesday release schedule starting in January 2026. This shift keeps the show strong without piling on a workload that would burn it out.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Visit https://DriveOnPodcast.com to use the chatbot

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Mental Health And Operation Overwatch

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Army combat medic veteran Adam Fluegel talks about answering the call for medics after 9/11, running patrols during the first Iraqi elections, losing a brother-in-arms in his first real trauma case, and coming home with no decompression. To hold it together, he leaned on alcohol, hydrocodone, and Adderall, which fueled anxiety, insomnia, paranoia, and eventually a stay in a psychiatric ward.

He then walks through the night, he took his pistol from the safe, and almost ended his life before the thought of his daughters pulled him back. That choice started him on the path of PTSD recovery through journaling, facing memories from Iraq, and using medication as a tool instead of a crutch. Adam and Scott dig into veteran mental health, suicide prevention, therapy dogs and service animals, and the damage of pretending to be fine at work, then pivot to Operation Overwatch, a veteran nonprofit and app that connects vets and veteran nonprofits for community, PTSD support, fly-fishing and skydiving groups, GI Bill-backed scuba therapy, and more.

Timestamps:

00:04:45: From Baghdad streets to a calm warehouse floor
00:13:25: The first IED and losing a brother in his care
00:24:30: Adderall, burnout, and a life spinning out of control
00:31:30: Pistol in hand and the thought that saved him
00:40:04: Operation Overwatch and a new way to find your people

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Adam Fluegel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1A3KitAG2b/
Follow Adam Fluegel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fluegeladam
Follow Adam Fluegel on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/adam-fluegel-b14793150

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Choosing Life When Everything Hurts

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

The climb out of the lowest moments isn't clean or quick, and this conversation holds nothing back. A young airman who sprinted out of a rough home life, Brandon Held built a future through grit, service, and education. Then life took the legs out from under him. Losing his marriage. Losing daily life with his kids. Losing his career. Losing his footing. One night, he downed a bottle of sleeping pills and waited for the silence. Someone found him in time. That one act gave him a second chance he didn't think he deserved.

Brandon opens up about how he rebuilt his mind, confidence, habits, and purpose. He talks through the years of suicidal ideation, how old patterns nearly destroyed him, and the moment he drew a line and chose to fight his way back.

Timestamps:

13:45: The first time suicide crossed his mind
16:30: The night he tried to end everything
21:00: Learning how to rebuild his mindset from scratch
33:45: Surviving every bad day and seeing the shift
47:45: His final message for anyone stuck in a dark season

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.brandonheld.com/
Follow Brandon Held on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bh_life_is_crazy/
Follow Brandon Held on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-l-held-m-b-a-lifeiscrazy/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Lyrics That Kept Me Here

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

A lot of vets say music is the only thing that still makes sense, and for Tony Kessel, that idea runs deep. He built a 366-song playlist of his life, wrote the story tied to each track, and found himself looking at a full account of growing up in a foster home, serving in the Army National Guard, and working through suicidal thoughts. With more than two decades in uniform, he talks about being raised by a Vietnam veteran NCO, commissioning as an officer, and learning to lead while valuing the experience that NCOs bring. Music runs through all of it, from Garth Brooks and old country to heavy metal and the tracks that shaped the post-9/11 years. Our conversation covers how music served as both a coping tool and a warning sign, why non-combat deployments can still weigh on you, and how suicide intervention training pushed him to speak openly about his lowest points. We get into the shock of coming home from Kuwait or Afghanistan almost overnight, the support he has offered other vets, and why simply sitting with someone who is struggling matters. Tony also shares how he is using his home studio and writing to reach people who think they are carrying their pain alone.

Timestamps

00:06:30 Tony's wide musical background and how different genres shaped his life.
00:09:45 The late-night drive after drill that sparked the 366 song playlist.
00:18:30 Using music to cope, the risks of relying on it to numb pain, and the moment he knew he had to face things directly.
00:26:30 Suicide intervention training, opening up about suicide attempts, and why sharing his story matters.
00:31:30 Returning home too fast after deployment and how that sudden shift affects veterans.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://dualistmedia.com
Follow Tony Kessel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dualistmedia
Follow Tony Kessel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dualistmedia
Follow Tony Kessel on Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/dualistmedia

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Cooking Supports Veterans After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

When the Army chapter closed, Cory Brown didn't know what came next. A decade later, he's a veteran, entrepreneur, and creator of "Eat Your Feelings," a YouTube show that pairs cooking with honest talk about mental health. What started as a lighthearted project became a space for veterans and civilians alike to laugh, cry, and talk about the heavy stuff while breaking bread.

In this conversation, Cory shares how food became his outlet as a way to manage stress and reconnect with others. He opens up about the transition from the military to the corporate world, the pull to create something meaningful, and how showing vulnerability on camera helped others do the same.

Timestamps:

00:03:00: Leaving the military and rebuilding life from scratch
00:06:00: How "Eat Your Feelings" began and what it really stands for
00:10:45: Cooking as therapy and the role of humor in healing
00:18:15: Breaking stigma and creating real conversations about mental health
00:28:00: Why action, no matter how small, beats fear every time

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.eatyourfeelingsshow.com/
Eat Your Feelings on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EatYourFeelingsShow
Eat Your Feelings on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatyourfeelingsshow/
Follow Cory Brown on Twitter/X: https://x.com/Pcorybrown
Eat Your Feelings on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eat-your-feelings-media
Eat Your Feelings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EatYourFeelingsShow

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Power of Stoic Thinking

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

A submarine is one of the most demanding workplaces on Earth. Confined, tense, and utterly dependent on trust and focus. William Spears has spent his career in that world, learning how to lead and think clearly when everything around him demands perfection. His journey led him to Stoicism, a philosophy that teaches emotional discipline, clarity, and responsibility.

In this episode, William explains how the same ideas that once guided ancient philosophers can help today's service members, veterans, and families face the stress of modern life. He talks about the link between Stoicism and modern therapy, how the idea of total responsibility changes how we lead and parent, and why writing down our thoughts can be one of the most powerful tools for mental clarity. This conversation is a practical guide to keeping your balance when life feels like it's closing in.

Timestamps:

00:07:00: How Stoicism became a modern tool for resilience
00:13:00: The connection between ancient philosophy and therapy
00:21:00: Redefining responsibility and control
00:29:00: The "Responsibility Heuristic" and how it applies to leadership
00:49:00: The journaling habit that builds steadiness and focus

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://williamcspears.com/
Follow William Spears on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-spears-89130443/
Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy Book: https://a.co/d/j09noDt
How to Think Like a Roman Emperor Book: https://a.co/d/cJagK5C

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Painting Helped an Air Force Veteran Recover Her Sense of Self

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Cheri Carandanis spent her career caring for others as an Air Force nurse and later in hospice. After two brain injuries forced her to retire, she had to face life without the role that once defined her. What began as a simple attempt to follow medical advice led her to something unexpected: painting. Through it, she found healing, direction, and a deeper understanding of herself.

In this episode, Cheri talks about growing up in a military family, serving through deployments, and learning to rebuild after loss. Her story is a reminder that recovery takes time, creativity can be medicine, and there's always a way forward, even when life throws you a curveball.

Timestamps:

04:00 - What deployment is like for a nurse
10:00 - Life on an early base in Afghanistan. Chaos, humor, and teamwork
15:00 - The brain injuries that ended her nursing career
17:30 - Picking up a paintbrush for the first time and finding peace
30:00 - Why she now sees the injury as a turning point, not an ending

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.carandanisfineart.com
Follow Cheri Carandanis on Facebook: www.facebook.com/carandanisfineart
Follow Cheri Carandanis on Instagram: www.instagram.com/carandanisfineart

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Hidden Heroes Beside Our Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0000

When your mission shifts from the battlefield to the bedside, how do you keep going? This episode features Dan Contreras from Disabled American Veterans, who opens up about the emotional realities of becoming his wife's caregiver after her cancer diagnosis and how that experience reshaped his understanding of service. Dan shares how DAV's Caregiver Support Program empowers those who carry the invisible weight of caring for a loved one, connecting them to resources, community, and hope.From learning to accept help to balancing self-care and duty, Dan's story reminds us that strength comes from knowing when to reach out. Whether you're a veteran, spouse, or friend, this conversation shines a light on the people who quietly keep others alive and the programs that stand ready to support them. Timestamps:

00:03:00 - The day Dan's life changed forever: stepping into the caregiver role
00:07:15 - The unexpected impact of that first call with a DAV Care Specialist
00:14:45 - How the Caregiver Program creates real respite and connection
00:21:15 - Redefining strength: when asking for help becomes wisdom
00:47:00 - The truth about caregiver burnout and why no one can do it alone

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://dav.org
DAV Caregivers Program: https://davcaregivers.org
Follow DAV on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dav
Follow DAV on Instagram: http://instagram.com/davhq
Follow DAV on Twitter/X: https://x.com/davhq
Follow DAV on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/davhq
Follow DAV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/disabledamericanveterans

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How a Veteran Found Freedom After the Corporate Grind

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

After serving in the Air Force, Billy Rudd spent over two decades leading massive teams in corporate America. On paper, he had everything figured out. He had a great title, a solid paycheck, and constant travel. But something had to give. With two growing kids and a business idea that wouldn't leave him alone, Billy took the leap and turned his side hustle into a full-time gig.

In this episode, he shares what it takes to walk away from "safe," how his military background shaped his leadership style, and why authenticity matters more than marketing. He also talks about bringing his kids into the business, the lessons they're learning, and what it means to finally have control over his own time.

Timestamps:

00:03:00: How Billy's Air Force years shaped his mindset
00:07:30: Leaving the corporate world for something meaningful
00:09:45: The origins of Cloud Splitter Coffee
00:14:30: Authenticity, community, and building a real brand
00:26:45: Involving his kids and finding balance at home

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://Cloudsplittercoffee.com
Follow Billy Rudd on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DDK7YTgVs/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Follow Billy Rudd on Instagram: https://instagram.com/cloudsplittercoffee
Follow Billy Rudd on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-rudd-14a433241

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Combat Letters and Life Lessons

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

He thought he'd miss the war, but fate had other plans. Marine aviator Don Eggspuehler's story begins with a stack of letters written from the jungles of Thailand during the last year of Vietnam. Those letters, saved by his mother and rediscovered decades later, became the foundation for something bigger. A way to connect generations through humor, heartbreak, and hard-won wisdom.

In this conversation, Don opens up about the fear of flying through tracer fire at night, the loss of fellow Marines, and the long road toward peace that followed. He draws parallels between Vietnam and Afghanistan, the shared feeling of coming home to a country that doesn't quite understand, and the importance of preserving your story before it disappears.

Don also shares how writing helped him heal not just from combat, but from losing his wife, facing grief, and finding purpose again through storytelling. His message is clear: your memories, your lessons, and your story matter. Whether it's for your kids, your grandkids, or someone you'll never meet, those stories have power.

Timestamps:

02:15: Letters to mom from Vietnam
06:00: Flying night missions through enemy fire
10:30: Parallels between Vietnam and Afghanistan
17:00: Lessons from loss and grief worth sharing
25:30: Finding healing in talking, writing, and connection

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://lifelessonsbooks.net
Follow Don Eggspuehler on Instagram: https://instagram.com/doneggspuehler
Follow Don Eggspuehler on Twitter/X: https://x.com/DonEggspuehler
Follow Don Eggspuehler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/don-eggspuehler-54b71227b

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Truth About Treatment Resistant Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Sometimes healing feels more like trial and error than progress. Brian Livesay knows that firsthand. After a decade in uniform and years working in veteran care, he's learned that recovery is about connection, honesty, and finding what actually works for each person. In this conversation, Brian and Scott talk about how therapy can go wrong when it's too rigid, the fear of making that first call for help, and why moral injury still gets overlooked in veteran care. It's a hopeful look at what happens when we stop trying to "fit" into a treatment plan and start listening to what we really need.

Timestamps:

00:06:24 - Why "treatment-resistant PTSD" misses the mark
00:11:19 - Making the first call and facing the unknown
00:15:00 - How trust opens the door to healing
00:21:00 - The weight of moral injury
00:38:30 - A therapist's real job: guide, not fixer

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://arisealliance.org/
Follow Arise Alliance Institute on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AriseAllianceInstitute/
Follow Arise Alliance Institute on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariseallianceinstitute/
Follow Arise Alliance Institute on Twitter/X: https://www.instagram.com/ariseallianceinstitute/
Follow Arise Alliance Institute on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arise-alliance/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Losing Sight Finding Strength

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Aaron Hale's story is about what comes next after tragedy strikes. After serving as a Navy cook, he switched to the Army to become an explosive ordnance disposal tech, leading teams through dangerous missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. A blast left him blind, and years later, meningitis took his hearing. Instead of giving up, Aaron focused on how to move forward. He learned new ways to live, connected with other veterans who had faced similar losses, and found purpose in helping others do the same. This episode is a conversation about persistence, service, and learning to build a new life one step at a time. Timestamps:

00:08:11 - From Navy kitchens to Afghanistan's front lines
00:17:49 - The meaning of "initial success or total failure"
00:27:42 - The explosion that changed everything
00:33:30 - Finding mentors and new purpose
00:45:12 - Turning his story into strength for others

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.pointofimpactpod.com/
Follow Aaron Hale on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aclayhale
Follow Aaron Hale on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aclayhale/
Follow Aaron Hale on Twitter/X: https://x.com/aclayhale
Follow Aaron Hale on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hale-1861477/
Eod fudge: https://eodfudge.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Learning to Feel Like Yourself Again After the Military

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Getting out of the military doesn't come with a manual. You leave one world behind and step into another that doesn't always make sense. In this episode, Air Force veteran and counselor Timothy Wienecke shares how he rebuilt his life after service and helps other vets do the same.

Timothy opens up about how the Air Force turned things around for him, what he's learned about masculinity, and why finding real connection, not just surface-level stuff, makes all the difference. This episode shares how to move forward without losing yourself in the process.

Timestamps:

00:01:34 - How the Air Force helped him reset his life
00:04:27 - Lessons from working with others in tough situations
00:10:15 - What healthy masculinity actually looks like
00:18:51 - The identity shift that happens after leaving service
00:29:41 - Why connection is the key to feeling grounded again

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://empoweredchangece.com/american-masculinity-podcast
Follow Timothy Wienecke on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselor_tim_wienecke/
Follow Timothy Wienecke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothywienecke/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Veterans Struggle To Sleep

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Sleep can feel like the enemy when nightmares, racing thoughts, or old deployment habits keep you wired at night.

In this episode, Dr. Leah Kaylor, a prescribing psychologist and sleep expert for the FBI, explains why so many veterans and first responders struggle to rest and what happens in the brain when we avoid sleep altogether.

This episode will help you understand how REM sleep helps process trauma, and learn why caffeine and alcohol quietly sabotage your nights. Dr. Kaylor shares simple, cost-free fixes like getting morning sunlight, adjusting caffeine timing, and creating better sleep routines to help you finally get real rest. If you've ever wondered why your body won't shut down or how to stop the cycle of sleepless nights, this conversation delivers both clarity and hope.

Timestamps

09:00 - Veterans avoiding sleep to escape nightmares
11:30 - How REM sleep acts like overnight therapy
17:15 - The hidden cost of caffeine and late-night pre-workouts
37:15 - Why alcohol is the worst "sleep aid"
41:30 - Building self-awareness with sleep logs

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
If Sleep Were A Drug Book: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/if-sleep-were-a-drug/
Website: https://DrLeahKaylor.com
Follow Leah Kaylor on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleahkaylor/
Follow Leah Kaylor on Twitter/X: https://www.tiktok.com/@drleahkaylor
Follow Leah Kaylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-kaylor-ph-d-mp-rxp-a75497222/
Follow Leah Kaylor on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.LeahKaylorShorts https://www.youtube.com/@DrLeahKaylor

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Faith Rebuilt a Combat Veteran’s Life

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

What happens when the war follows you home, and no amount of alcohol, drugs, or violence can silence it? Andrew Jones lived that reality. After Iraq, PTSD nearly destroyed him. Nightmares, hallucinations, broken relationships, and suicidal thoughts became his new battlefield. But when he reached his breaking point, he dropped to his knees and cried out to God. That moment changed everything.

In this episode, Andrew shares how faith pulled him from the edge of death and gave him a new mission. From leading men in combat to leading men in faith, he's found purpose in helping others discover hope, strength, and identity through Christ. This episode is about one veteran's encounter with God that turned despair into joy and chaos into peace.

Timestamps:

00:06:30 - The breaking point: Andrew's lowest moment, when he prepared to end his life and instead cried out to God.
00:14:00 - The encounter: Describing the moment he felt God's presence and the peace that replaced years of despair.
00:19:30 - Learning to turn it off: How faith helped him lay down the constant fight-or-flight mindset of combat.
00:29:00 - Identity restored: Finding purpose again through faith and realizing what it means to serve a new mission.
00:41:30 - The miracle of fatherhood: After years of hopelessness, God answers prayers and brings new life into his family.
01:38:00 - Hope for the hopeless: Andrew's message to veterans who feel too far gone, why it's never too late to start over.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.lockedandloadedfaith.com/
Follow Locked and Loaded Faith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lockedandloadedfaith/
Follow Locked and Loaded Faith on Twitter/X: https://x.com/lockedloadedfth
Follow Locked and Loaded Faith on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lockedandloadedfaith
Follow Locked and Loaded Faith on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lockedandloadedfaith

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Lifelong Care for Veterans and Families with Semper Fi & America’s Fund

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0000

The toughest battles don't always happen overseas. Sometimes they hit when you're back home, trying to figure out how to live with injuries, stress, or changes you never saw coming. Karen Hetherington knows this firsthand. She's part of the team at Semper Fi & America's Fund, and she has spent years walking alongside service members and their families during some of their most challenging moments.

In this conversation, Karen shares how The Fund got its start and how it's grown into a lifeline for thousands of veterans. We talk about the little things that make a big difference, like covering bills while a family sits through long hospital stays, and the big things, like connecting someone with life-changing medical treatment or helping them find a new purpose after leaving the military.

You'll hear about fast action that saved a Marine in crisis, the cutting-edge care that helped an amputee get back on his feet, and why listening closely matters more than any program on paper. The Fund restores independence, eases the weight on families, and proves that no veteran has to figure it out alone.

Timestamps:

00:03:15: The dining room table where it all began
00:07:45: Breaking through pride and asking for help
00:12:15: Losing purpose when service ends overnight
00:24:45: Saving a Marine before it was too late
00:29:30: New hope through groundbreaking prosthetics

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thefund.org/
- For the 14th consecutive year, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) will partner with Semper Fi & America's Fund in the Double Down for Veterans Match Campaign. Through the end of the year, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and PXG, will match every donation made to The Fund dollar-for-dollar up to $7.5 million.
Follow The Fund on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/semperfiandamericasfund
Follow The Fund on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/semperfiandamericasfund/
Follow The Fund on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/semperfifund
Follow The Fund on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/semper-fi-fund/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Warning Signs Military and Veteran Families Can’t Afford to Miss

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Sometimes the hardest battles aren't fought overseas. They're fought in living rooms, late at night, when the weight of war refuses to let go. In this powerful conversation, Ashley Sylvester shares the story of her husband, Army Sergeant Jason Sylvester, whose deployments to Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan left invisible scars that followed him home.

Ashley walks us through the subtle shifts she saw over time: sleepless nights, changes in mood, outbursts, and moments when Jason seemed present in body but gone in spirit. She describes the impossible balancing act of protecting their children, seeking help inside and outside the military system, and watching the walls close in.

Her honesty shines a light on the barriers veterans face, the threat of losing security clearances, stigma, and fear of losing careers, which keep too many from getting the support they need. Most of all, she shares the heartbreak of losing Jason to suicide, and why recognizing the warning signs and having hard conversations could make all the difference for another family.

This episode covers a difficult topic, but it's also a call to action: don't ignore what you see, don't wait, and don't give up on finding the help that's out there.

Timestamps:

04:27 - The first signs of sleepless nights and nightmares
13:00 - The rucksack of trauma that only grows heavier
18:00 - Creative strategies Ashley used to get her husband to talk
31:00 - When Jason began to mentally check out
44:15 - The tornado, the loss of everything, and the final spiral

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JasonSylvester2017
Follow Ashley Sylvester on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-sylvester-b426a4263

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Tools Veterans Need to Heal

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000

For many veterans, the hardest battles often come long after the uniform comes off. Erik Lawrence knows what that feels like. After years in Special Forces and contracting, he found himself running on fumes, mentally and physically, until he started digging into why he felt the way he did. From TBIs to toxic exposure, he explored every option available and built a resource to help others find their way.

In this conversation, Erik opens up about the traps veterans often fall into, why transitioning into a new chapter is so important, and the practical steps that can make a real difference. From fasting and detoxing to sorting through endless programs and figuring out what actually fits your needs, this episode will help give veterans the tools to take back their health and move forward.

Timestamps:

03:15 - From the Army straight into an African conflict
04:45 - How chasing the "glory days" wrecks lives
09:30 - Why he built a 500-page guide for veterans
15:30 - Burn pits, heavy metals, and toxic exposure
17:45 - Fasting as a reset for body and mind

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://Www.vssbooks.com
Fire Support Book: https://a.co/d/4yqy2eI

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Finds Strength After the Weak Man Phase

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Losing your sense of identity after service feels like freefall. For Lee Freeburg, that struggle was real. A Navy hospital corpsman who fought to find his place in uniform and beyond, Lee spiraled into what he calls his weak man phase, living for temporary pleasures, drifting without direction. It took a violent quad accident and a broken collarbone to spark a 180 that changed his life.

Lee opens up about finding purpose through discipline, rebuilding after hitting rock bottom, and using storms as teachers rather than excuses. He shares how faith, fatherhood, and accountability became the anchors for his transformation. From designing a tool to revolutionize an industry to writing a book so his daughter would always know his values, Lee proves that rebuilding starts with self-awareness and grows through action.

This is a powerful journey through loss of identity, rediscovering mission, and the fight to leave a legacy worth carrying forward.

Timestamps:

00:09:00: Facing heartbreak when leaving the uniform behind
00:12:30: The quad accident that became a life reset
00:14:45: Breaking free from the weak man mindset
00:18:00: Lessons from storms and the sailor's analogy for life
00:23:30: Writing a book for his daughter and defining faith

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Book "How to Live a Better Life": https://www.amazon.com/How-Live-Better-Life-Principles/dp/B0DGQ79QKY/
Follow Lee Freeburg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lee.freeburg/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

When the Uniform Comes Off Everything Changes Overnight

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Leaving the military can feel like stepping off a cliff. One day, you've got steady pay, housing, and a community that's always around. The next day, it's all gone. That's the reality Robert Wheeler faced when he left the Navy. He went from structure and purpose to bills stacking up, silence from the people he served with, and depression that pushed him past 300 pounds.

In this conversation, Robert opens up about why he once threw out his uniforms and refused to even call himself a veteran. He shares the hard lessons he learned about VA benefits, how Chapter 31 gave him time freedom to rebuild, and why fitness is needed for more than just looks. You'll hear him talk about how to handle when negative spirals hit, and how gratitude helped him get out from under that constant rain cloud.

If you've ever felt like you lost everything overnight after taking off the uniform, this episode is a blueprint for finding your footing again.

Timestamps:

03:01 Losing community, pay, and benefits all at once
07:27 Throwing out uniforms and hiding veteran identity
17:49 How fitness pulled him back from depression and 300 pounds
28:40 Pain into progress, building discipline one day at a time
35:36 Emotional regulation and telling yourself to "shut up"

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.battlefittedbrand.com
Follow BattleFitted on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/battlefitted
Follow BattleFitted on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/battlefitted
Follow BattleFitted on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/battlefitted

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Treating Veteran Transition Like an Experiment

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Losing the uniform can mean losing identity, reputation, and even the sense of mission that kept you moving forward. For many, the transition feels like starting from zero. That is exactly what Stephen Bump faced after 12 years in the Air Force. His journey carried him from aerospace engineering to Eli Lilly, through business school, and finally into building his own consulting firm. Along the way, he learned to trust others, embrace humility, protect family time, and make career moves that aligned with his own values, not just someone else's definition of success.

This conversation is about facing the uncomfortable reality that no one in your civilian job cares about your rank or medals, and how that is not the end but the beginning. From finding purpose in unexpected industries, to reclaiming fitness and family balance, to using the GI Bill and veteran resources to carve a better future, Stephen lays out a roadmap any veteran can use to transition with clarity and confidence.

Timestamps:

00:07:45 - The hardest part of starting over in civilian careers
00:15:45 - Losing fitness and regaining it through entrepreneurship
00:22:15 - The freedom and responsibility of choosing your own clients
00:28:30 - Breaking free from other people's definitions of success
00:39:00 - The veteran resources that made the biggest difference

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.persperity.net
Follow Stephen Bump on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenbump/
Resources mentioned in the episode:
- Cameron Brooks Headhunter: https://www.cameron-brooks.com/
- Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/
- GI Bill: https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Turning Grief Into a Greater Mission

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Jennifer Ballou's deployment to Afghanistan was supposed to overlap briefly with her husband's fourth combat tour. They'd have a couple of months in-country together, then he'd head home to the kids while she finished her year. That plan ended the night she learned he'd been killed in action.

She came home with his flag-draped casket and stepped into a new reality: single parent, senior leader, and a grieving spouse trying to make sense of it all. She talks about the tough balance between duty and family, the moments the Army got it right, the times they didn't, and how her kids showed resilience she'll never forget.

Now, as Chief of Staff for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, Jennifer is still serving. This time, by making sure the stories of service and sacrifice are never lost. This conversation is about loss, leadership, and finding purpose on the other side of tragedy.

Timestamps

00:04:30 - The night everything changed in Afghanistan
00:09:30 - Flying home with her husband's casket
00:12:50 - Trying to lead soldiers while grieving
00:21:20 - When leadership fell short-and when they stepped up
00:29:40 - From Gold Star fellow to Chief of Staff at the GWOT Memorial Foundation

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/
Follow Jennifer Ballou on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejenniferballou/
Follow Jennifer Ballou on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferballou/
Follow the Global War on Terrorism Foundation:

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Fighting the Rush After Combat

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:30:00 +0000

The battlefield changes you, but the real fight might start when you get home.

Ben Sykes went from web designer to Marine machine gunner during the invasion of Iraq, living through relentless firefights, surreal moments in Saddam's palaces, and the strange calm of enemy fire becoming routine.

But nothing prepared him for the turbulence of reintegration. Restless nights, the crash of losing combat's adrenaline, and the struggle to fit into a world that no longer made sense. In this conversation, Ben opens up about the chemical withdrawal of leaving war, the dangerous paths veterans can fall into, and the hard-earned lessons he wishes he'd known during his transition.

Whether you've been in the fight yourself or love someone who has, his story is a brutally honest look at what it takes to reclaim your footing after service.

Timestamps:

00:10:40 - Trading Hollywood for the yellow footprints
00:12:50 - First firefight on the road to Baghdad
00:23:10 - Securing Saddam's palace and the gold they never saw
00:28:50 - The chemical withdrawal of coming home
00:37:00 - From homelessness to finding a new mission

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Psychedelics Help After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

After two deployments and a solid run in the Marine Corps, Susannah Stokes did what a lot of vets do-she took her leadership skills into the corporate world. But even with a great job at Facebook and everything looking good on paper, something still felt off.

This episode talks about what happens when the structure goes away, and you're left trying to figure out who you are. Susannah opens up about feeling undervalued, disconnected, and stuck in roles that didn't reflect what she was capable of. She talks about the identity crash after service, the limits of traditional therapy, and how psychedelics helped her see things differently, without numbing out.

We also get into how she's helping others now and what legal psychedelic support can look like.

Timestamps

00:02:00 - From a Marine Corps deployment to Facebook's corporate culture
00:06:45 - Why many vets are under-placed in civilian roles
00:14:20 - Losing faith, identity, and the question that changed everything
00:23:40 - How psychedelics rewired trauma loops and revealed purpose
00:44:20 - Finding legal, structured healing through guided plant medicine

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.metamorphosis.ventures/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Get the VA Disability Rating You Deserve

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

You served your country, endured physical pain, and now struggle to get the benefits you rightfully earned. If navigating the VA disability claims system feels like a second battle, this episode is your lifeline.

Dr. Adam Weissman, an emergency physician turned veteran advocate, pulls back the curtain on the VA disability rating process. He shares insider knowledge to help you sidestep common pitfalls, clarify confusing terms, and leverage expert medical evaluations from REE Medical to achieve the disability rating you truly deserve. Stop settling for less. Here's your path to securing better support, financial stability, and peace of mind.

Timestamps

00:02:00 - The Hidden Roadblocks in VA Disability Claims
00:10:30 - How Expert Evaluations Can Boost Your Rating
00:21:00 - What Happens When You're Underrated
00:28:15 - The Extra Benefits of Higher Ratings
00:34:00 - Avoiding Predatory Disability Claim Services

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/ree-medical/*
Follow REE Medical on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reemedicalvets
Follow REE Medical on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reemedicalvets/
Follow REE Medical on Twitter/X: https://x.com/REEMedical
Follow REE Medical on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ree-medical
Other links: https://www.youtube.com/@REEMedicalVets

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

* - This page contains affiliate links. If you click a link and purchase a product or service, I may earn a small commission, which in no way affects the price you pay for the service.

Building Veteran Community Through Fitness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Chris Smith didn't plan to become the program director of a veteran fitness nonprofit. When he left the Army, his only goal was to stay afloat. But after facing down PTSD, relationship struggles, and a stretch of homelessness, he found himself on a new path-one focused on health, consistency, and community.

In this episode, Chris talks about how Warrior Strong helped him rebuild his identity and give back to others dealing with similar struggles. He shares what it was like to go from engineering missions in Iraq to sleeping in his car, and how a single yoga class turned into a whole new way to serve.

Whether you're a veteran looking for your next step or just trying to feel a little more grounded, this conversation is about what's possible when you stop waiting and start showing up.

Timestamps

00:01:00 - 9/11 hit during basic training
00:12:30 - Losing stability after service
00:17:00 - How yoga and fitness changed everything
00:34:15 - What Warrior Strong offers right now
00:44:00 - Advice for veterans stuck in place

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.warriorstronginc.org/
Follow Warrior Strong on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warriorstronginc
Follow Warrior Strong on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorstronginc/
Follow Warrior Strong on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@warriorstronginc.9685
Follow Warrior Strong on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/warrior-strong

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Veterans Stay Mentally and Physically Strong

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

When the uniform comes off, many veterans feel like they've lost their team. And with it, their purpose. Michael "Sully" Sullivan knows that feeling firsthand, having spent 30 years in Special Forces. But instead of fading into isolation, he stepped into a new mission with Team RWB, helping veterans reconnect, rebuild accountability, and strengthen their health.

In this conversation, Sully shares how Team RWB brings veterans together around fitness, connection, and community. From cross-country flag relays to local meetups.

Topics Discussed

How Sully's Special Forces career led him to Team RWB's mission
The story and impact of the Old Glory Relay
How accountability and community crush isolation after service
The connection between physical activity, health, and mental wellness
How Team RWB helps veterans stay engaged through local chapters and the app

Notable Quotes

"It took a team to get the team across the country."
"Your participation is helping out that person that you're seeing at these different events."
"You join the team, you see yourself as like, not only taking care of yourself, but your participation is helping out that person."
"There's just so much power, I think, in the veteran population."
"The idea is that we're always there for you to come back."

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://teamrwb.org
Follow Michael Sullivan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mpsulli335
Follow Michael Sullivan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sully_rwb
Follow Team RWB on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/teamrwb
Follow Team RWB on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teamrwb/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

From Musician to Soldier and the Invisible Wounds After War

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Joseph Fontenot gave up a rising career in music to enlist in the Army, only to be thrust into unexpected combat roles in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He discusses his experiences while deployed, injuries that aren't always physical, and the challenge of finding direction and building a meaningful life after returning home.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Joseph Fontenot on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2335103330160442
Follow Joseph Fontenot on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josephfontenot74/
Follow Joseph Fontenot on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-j-fontenot-322a8088/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Total Force Plus Making Military and Veteran Connections

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Transitioning out of the military brings challenges that don't end when the uniform comes off. Benefits, family readiness, and the search for a new purpose can all feel overwhelming. In this conversation, USAF Lt. Gen. (Ret) Brian Kelly, President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America, shares how his decades of service have led him to focus on protecting what veterans and their families have earned.

A key part of that mission is the TotalForce+ conference, a groundbreaking event designed to connect service members, veterans, government leaders, and industry partners. Brian breaks down the four pillars driving the conference: career transition, community support, benefits advocacy, and crisis response, and why bringing all these voices together matters for the future of the military community.

From scholarships for military kids to disaster relief when veterans are displaced, to real solutions being built at TotalForce+, this episode gives you a look at how advocacy and action come together. If you've been searching for hope that someone is fighting for you and your family, this conversation will show you exactly where that work is happening.

Timestamps

00:02:30 - Why Brian Kelly chose to continue serving after 33 years in uniform
00:06:45 - How MOAA scholarships help military kids overcome constant moves
00:08:45 - Crisis relief for veterans who fall through the cracks
00:17:15 - The four pillars shaping the Total Force Plus conference
00:23:00 - Using new tools to make transition smoother for veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://totalforceplus.moaa.org/
Follow MOAA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moaa
Follow MOAA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moaaofficial/
Follow MOAA on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/MilitaryOfficer
Follow MOAA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moaa
Other links: https://moaa.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Overcoming Perfectionism and Combat Stress

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Cole Grace knows danger up close. In Iraq, he spent his days disarming IEDs and dodging sniper fire. But coming home wasn't the relief he'd expected. Instead, he found himself at war again, trapped in a loop of relentless perfectionism, unexplained chronic pain, and an addiction that crept up quietly, almost unnoticed.

In this conversation, Cole opens up about the brutal reality of fighting battles you can't see. He shares how he finally confronted childhood wounds that had intensified his combat trauma and what it took to silence the inner voice that always said he wasn't enough. If you've ever felt stuck in your head, lost in your own pain, or wondered if peace is even possible, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

01:00 - Facing bombs and bullets in Iraq
08:45 - How combat fuels relentless perfectionism
20:30 - Addiction, chronic pain, and medical dead-ends
28:15 - Rewiring trauma without the BS
35:45 - Finding peace after chasing success

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Cole Grace on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@cgrace21

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Military and Veteran Families Make Homeschool Work

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000

If you're active duty or a veteran with kids, you already know the school system doesn't move with you. New duty station, new rules, new problems, and your kids pay the price.

Natalie Mack has been homeschooling for over two decades while her family bounced from base to base, including overseas. She's not selling you sunshine and Pinterest-perfect school days. She breaks down exactly what it takes to homeschool in a military lifestyle, what families screw up, and how to do it smarter.

This episode discusses:

What you need to know before your next PCS
How to deal with overseas laws that technically ban homeschooling
Why more military families are ditching public school and how it affects military retention
The benefits for your kids (and yourself) when you take back control

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://militaryhomeschoolers.org/
Follow Natalie Mack on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalie.minormack/
Follow MHA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/militaryhomeschoolersassociationMHA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/military_homeschoolers/
Follow Natalie Mack on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolnataliemack
Follow Natalie Mack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-mack-homeschool/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Veterans Crave Chaos

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Veterans often return home to a world that feels muted. Mark Haddad, a former Army soldier and contractor, breaks down the reason why: our body-mind-soul system gets rewired by trauma and adrenaline, and everyday life just can't compete. This episode talks about the science behind why vets crave danger, sabotage stability, and feel disconnected from "normal."

From surviving a parachute malfunction to confronting evil in Africa, Mark shares stories that any vet who's struggled to slow down will understand. You'll learn how to stop blaming yourself for what your brain and body were trained to do.

Timestamps

00:02:15 - Surviving a combat parachute malfunction
00:06:45 - Realizing your purpose isn't downrange
00:10:15 - Why veterans chase chaos after war
00:16:30 - The adrenaline bar theory explained
00:44:30 - How to regain control over your internal chemistry

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.markhaddadauthor.com
Follow Mark Haddad on Instagram: www.instagram.com/markhaddadauthor1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Real Cost of Military Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

He gave the Army 20 years, 8 months, and 8 days, nearly all of it in special operations. From Ranger Regiment to Green Beret team sergeant, Joshua Daniel lived and breathed the mission. But when the wars ended, so did the mission, and he felt it in every bone, every memory, every unfinished story.

Rather than fade out, he built something bigger than himself.

In this episode, Joshua opens up about the pain of stepping away, the harsh words that forced him to rethink his exit, and how he turned guilt into leadership with Hero Games Charity and Counterculture Solutions. From one-on-one mentoring to purpose-driven events honoring Gold Star families, he's proving there's still work worth doing, and it starts with refusing to settle for half a life.

Timestamps:

00:00:30 - From 134 pounds to Green Beret: Building grit through the suck
00:06:00 - The moment a younger soldier called him out-and why it changed his path
00:10:00 - Starting over with Hero Games and finding new purpose
00:19:45 - Why honoring one family a year matters more than doing it all
00:38:00 - The hard truth about veterans wasting their lives post-military

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.counterculturesolutions.com/
https://herogamescharity.com/
Follow Joshua Daniel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JDxHGCxCCS
Follow Joshua Daniel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdxhgcxccs/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

One Vet’s Fix for the VA’s Failures

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Kris Searles got blown out, broken down, and pushed out. The VA gave him pills. He gave them the finger.

Instead of numbing out, he wrote a check, got stem cell therapy, fixed his back, got his life back, and started helping others do the same. Now, through Overwatch 6, he's funding treatments that work, no pills, no surgeries, no BS.

He's also training vets to coach each other through trauma. No therapy jargon. Just guys who've been through hell, helping others crawl out of it.

If you've ever stared at your pill bottle and thought, "There's gotta be a better way," this may be that way.

Timestamps:

00:02:30 - Iraq sniper op, hunting high-value targets
00:11:45 - Ambushed and losing his whole team days before redeployment
00:16:15 - Crawling out of bed until stem cells changed everything
00:20:00 - VA's failures and how real healing works
00:37:45 - Coaching vets through trauma without the psychobabble

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.overwatch6.com/
https://www.mentoragility.com/find-a-vttv-meeting
Follow Overwatch 6 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/overwatch_6/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

PTSD is Wrecking You. Fix it Now.

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If life after the military feels like it's constantly on edge, you need tools that actually help you get your head straight.

Dr. Barbara Thompson is an Army veteran and psychologist who worked directly with Special Operations and high-risk teams who didn't have the luxury of falling apart. She knows what high stress does to the brain and how to fix it before it burns you down.

This episode is for the guy who's tried to muscle through PTSD, anxiety, or feeling disconnected (and it's not working). You'll learn how to spot when your brain is running on survival mode and what to do in the moment to break the spiral.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://drbarbthompson.com
Follow Barbara Thompson on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100025177493267
Follow Barbara Thompson on Instagram: https://instagram.com/barb.r.thompson
Follow Barbara Thompson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-thompson-7487aa8b

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Suicide Awareness Through Rock

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

What happens when music becomes a lifeline, capturing the stories and struggles veterans carry silently? Today's guests, Bronson Hetzer and Cody Doench, from The Filthy Heathens, take us on an emotional journey through their song "Cyril," a tribute to a fallen friend lost to suicide after combat.

It's a gut-punching reminder of why staying connected matters and why reaching out could save lives. Discover how their music serves as therapy, healing wounds that words alone can't touch, and how the power of brotherhood transcends even the darkest days.

Stay until the end for the full song. It's one you won't forget.

Timestamps

00:01:30 - Behind the Song "Cyril" and a friend's memory
00:08:15 - Why music can say what words can't
00:16:00 - Brotherhood beyond the battlefield
00:24:30 - The impact of one powerful song
00:32:45 - The critical importance of reaching out

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thefilthyheathens.com
Follow The Filthy Heathens on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555576782240
Follow The Filthy Heathens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_filthy_heathens/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Marine’s Mission For Mental Health and Fitness

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

A troubled past led one Marine to find redemption and purpose, turning adversity into a powerful mission. After struggling through his own difficult transition from military to civilian life, Logan Spiewak founded Boots to Health, a groundbreaking program dedicated to helping veterans and first responders reclaim their physical and mental health.

Listen to hear how veterans are finding strength, hope, and a supportive brotherhood through a unique fitness initiative that goes beyond the gym.

Timestamps:

02:15 - Logan's journey from juvenile delinquency to the Marine Corps
10:30 - The inspiration behind Boots to Health
22:45 - A detailed walkthrough of the Boots to Health program
33:00 - How fitness impacts veterans' mental health
36:45 - Bridging generational gaps through veteran camaraderie

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://bootstohealthfoundation.org
Follow Boots to Health on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083860142817
Follow Boots to Health on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bootstohealthfoundation/
Follow Boots to Health on Twitter/X: https://x.com/FoundationBTH
Follow Boots to Health on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bootstohealth

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Psychedelic Therapy for Combat Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

When the pills stop working and therapy feels like talking to a brick wall, where do you turn? Dr. Charlie Powell, a veteran and multi-board certified physician, opens up about a journey most in his shoes would never talk about, finding healing through psychedelic medicine after years of battling PTSD, depression, and emotional numbness.

His new project, Healing Heroes, captures this radical, personal transformation and the stories of six veterans and first responders who risked everything to find themselves again.

In this episode, we tear down the walls of stigma, see what healing looks like, and share why recovery demands more than just prescriptions and checklists. This is a conversation for anyone who's ever felt broken, lost, or tired of fighting the same battles inside their own head.

Timestamps

04:30 - Why traditional PTSD treatments often fall short
12:15 - The life-altering decision to try psychedelic medicine
19:45 - Building a multidisciplinary path to real healing
28:00 - The devastating impact of stigma and isolation
36:55 - How Healing Heroes is reshaping hope for veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://solovive.com
Follow Charlie Powell on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healingheroestv
Follow Charlie Powell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healingheroestv
Follow Charlie Powell on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@healingheroestv
Follow Charlie Powell on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HealingHeroesTV

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Shifting Veteran Mindsets by Healing PTSD with Gratitude

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Military spouse Marla Ballard discusses her journey from a farm in Kentucky to navigating the challenges of being a military spouse in the bustling D.C. area. She shares her story of resilience and reinvention after her husband's severe injuries from an IED in Iraq that dramatically reshaped their lives.

Marla faced her own internal struggles, questioning her worth and her future. Now, as the CEO of YU2SHINE, Marla has pioneered a powerful approach known as quantum personal development, helping veterans and military families break free from the limiting beliefs that hold them back.

This conversation will challenge you to rethink your perceptions, cultivate gratitude, and build practical strategies to navigate life's toughest transitions.

Timestamps:

02:00 - Marla's journey as a military spouse and overcoming her husband's combat injury
09:00 - Introduction to Quantum Personal Development
15:00 - Practical steps to shift negative beliefs through gratitude
22:30 - A daily practice for transforming your mindset
35:00 - Free resources and actionable support for veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://empower-me-academy.yu2shine.com/marla-ballard
Follow Marla Ballard on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marla.ballard.9
Follow Marla Ballard on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marla.ballard/
Follow Marla Ballard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlafballard/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Overcoming Isolation as a Veteran

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

After the service, feeling isolated can hit harder than expected. You move to a new place, start a new chapter, and suddenly realize that building real connections isn't easy anymore. That's where today's conversation lights a fire.

Michael Chahinian opens up about his own post-Navy struggles with loneliness and the incredible journey that led him to create Krew Social. This tool helps veterans and civilians alike build vibrant, in-person communities based on shared interests. This episode talks about reclaiming the camaraderie, connection, and purpose that so many miss after military life.

From organizing bike rides and book clubs to hosting lunch meetups after church, Krew Social shows how simple moments can lead to lifelong bonds, and even life-changing moments like finding a spouse. If you've been feeling the weight of isolation, this episode delivers hope, real-world solutions, and a new path forward.

Timestamps:

03:00 - The real struggles of making friends after service
08:30 - Why traditional apps fail veterans seeking connection
14:30 - How Krew Social creates real-world community
19:00 - Impact stories that prove connection changes lives
37:00 - Why reducing loneliness is crucial for veteran mental health

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.krewsocial.com
Follow Krew Social on Instagram: https://instagram.com/krewsocial
Follow Krew Social on Twitter/X: https://x.com/krewsocial1
Follow Michael Chahinian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikechahinian/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

From Deutschland to Devil Dog

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

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

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding a Community After Military

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Losing the uniform doesn't mean losing your mission. That's the focus of this episode with Marine veteran Sean Abrusci and Warrior Strong founder Tom Tice. Warrior Strong has created a way for veterans to reconnect through fitness, support, and purpose-driven programs that meet people where they are.

They dive into what it looks like to transition out of the military. The questions no one prepares you for, the moments of doubt, and the search for something that feels like it matters. Sean opens up about life after leaving the Marine Corps, the challenge of finding direction, and why so many veterans feel lost even with family and careers around them.

Tom breaks down the Warrior Strong mission and how they're building partnerships across the veteran nonprofit space. If you've ever felt like you were floating without a map after service, this is the conversation you didn't know you needed.

Timestamps:

00:05:00 - From college dropout to combat Marine
00:13:00 - Finding direction after service
00:21:45 - Why veteran nonprofits need to work together
00:30:00 - How purpose evolves in each life chapter
00:41:30 - What honesty with your spouse really looks like

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://warriorstronginc.org

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How One Dog Saved a Veteran

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Losing the uniform doesn't mean losing your mission. Daniel O'Dell opens up about the brutal reality of life after service. Physical limitations, mental health battles, and the crushing loss of identity. But when everything felt broken, he found healing in the most unexpected way: through his voice and a green-haired service dog named The Fluffy Poodle.

Daniel shares how filming his daily routines with his service dog led to national recognition, community healing, and a renewed purpose. His story is relatable. We discuss struggles with fatherhood, finances, and just getting through the day.

If you've ever felt like the world moved on without you, this is the episode that reminds you that you're not alone, and there's always another mission.

Timestamps

01:30 - Losing purpose after the Army and the job market shock

05:45 - Dark thoughts, survivor's guilt, and saving grace from one powerful speech

09:15 - Building a military-style "sandbox" to navigate civilian life

13:00 - How a service dog rebuilt Daniel's confidence and routine

24:45 - Carrying forward the legacy of those who didn't make it home

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://motivefate.com/
Follow Daniel O'Dell on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/MotiveFate-LLC-61557755683896/
Follow Daniel O'Dell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_fluffy_poodle/
Follow Daniel O'Dell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-o'dell-823650269
Follow Daniel O'Dell on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgtLvpZ4HzG6byTdbIirauQ

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Fixing the Flaws in Veteran Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

You've heard the lie: "You'll do great after the military. Companies are lining up to hire vets." But what if that's exactly what's breaking us?

Jason Anderson spent 20 years in the Air Force, leading international missions, and closing out his career at the Pentagon. He was ready for the civilian world, or so he thought. What followed was years of hidden anxiety, 3 a.m. panic, and strained family dynamics, all while climbing the corporate ladder. On the outside, he looked successful. Inside, he was unraveling.

In this eye-opening conversation, Jason dismantles the flawed assumptions behind the military's Transition Assistance Program and reveals the hidden link between poorly executed transitions and veteran mental health crises. He introduces the Modern Military Transition Framework, an approach built by veterans, for veterans, that finally treats post-service life as a whole new operating environment, not just a career move.

Whether you're still serving, just got out, or 10 years post-military and still feel like something's off, this episode is your wake-up call and your blueprint for doing it better.

Timestamps

(04:00) - The invisible struggle behind Jason's "successful" post-military career (07:00) - Why transition stress quietly breaks even high-performing veterans (11:00) - The lie TAP tells and how it sabotages mental health (20:15) - How Jason's modern framework flips the script on transition (38:30) - Retraining your mind for civilian life without losing who you are

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://preveteran.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Life After Blackwater

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Morgan Lerette didn't grow up dreaming about being a private military contractor. Like a lot of veterans, one thing led to another. He got pulled into Blackwater during the height of the Iraq War, rolling through Baghdad with no real rules of engagement, no clear mission beyond keeping people alive, and making more money than he ever thought possible.

In this episode, Morgan talks openly about what contracting was really like. Driving armored SUVs through war zones, making split-second decisions, and dealing with the consequences afterward. He explains how contractors operated alongside the military, why so many signed up, and how the people of Iraq saw it all from their side.

We also get into what happened after he left that world. Morgan shares what helped him figure out the next steps after war and contracting, how he finally built a steady life, and what advice he has for vets who are trying to do the same.

This is the kind of honest conversation you only get from someone who's actually been there.

Timestamps

00:02:00 - From Air National Guard to Blackwater by word of mouth
00:06:00 - Transitioning from contractor back to the Army
00:10:45 - Inside Blackwater culture and the "Guns, Girls, and Greed" mindset
00:19:00 - Why the government keeps using PMCs and the real costs
00:37:30 - Actionable advice for veterans finding their next step

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Morgan Lerette on Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackwaterDude1
Follow Morgan Lerette on TikTok: https://tiktok.com/BlackwaterDude1
Follow Morgan Lerette on Twitter/X: https://x.com/blackwaterdude1
Follow Morgan Lerette on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/morgan-lerette-73b01352

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How False Strength Keeps Men Stuck

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Strength doesn't always look like what you think. For years, Adam Kasix wore the mask, the intense energy, the warrior mindset, the high-functioning chaos. But behind the scenes, his life was crumbling. Addiction. Divorce. Anger. PTSD. It all came crashing down.

What changed? Adam stopped hiding behind the persona and started doing the real work. In this conversation, he talks about what it really means to become a man, not just a "guy", and how confronting the internal beast is the key to leading your family, healing your past, and building a life that actually feels worth living.

We talk identity, fatherhood, post-service disconnection, and why some of the toughest men Adam coaches are the ones who finally learn to soften.

Timestamps

00:03:15 - Why Adam leads with his lowlights, not his highlights
00:07:30 - Creating the "Guy" archetype and why men get stuck there
00:14:00 - What happens when the warrior leads your home life
00:23:00 - Radar framework for confronting your inner beast
00:43:00 - Why your warrior belongs on QRF, not in the living room

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website (Free Discovery Chat): https://chat.adamkasix.com/coffee
Adam Kasix on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@realadamkasix

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Surviving the War After the War

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What happens when the mission ends but the war inside you doesn't?

Ryan Reichert opens up about life after nearly two decades in the Army, including leading troops in combat, battling chronic PTSD, and losing everything he thought defined him. After a hard fall from grace, broken marriage, lost job, and hitting rock bottom with addiction, Ryan chose a different path.

He shares how he found faith, sobriety, and a renewed sense of purpose through his work at Our Protector Development, a consultancy focused on building strong leaders through lived experience.

If you're battling with purpose, pain, or what comes after service, this episode will hit home.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.ourprotectordevelopment.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Rebuilding Purpose Through Veteran Fitness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

After getting out of the Marine Corps, Rob Bracero found himself stuck, detached from purpose, struggling with chronic pain, and missing the community that used to push him forward. He's not alone. A lot of veterans find that once the structure of military life disappears, it's easy to fall into isolation and let their physical and mental health slip.

That's where Warrior Strong comes in.

In this episode, Rob shares how Warrior Strong helps veterans rebuild strength and connection through virtual and in-person fitness programs designed specifically for the veteran community. Whether it's yoga for back pain, breathwork to improve sleep, or strength training that takes service-related injuries into account, these programs offer more than just a workout. They bring back a sense of tribe.

Rob also opens up about how this work helped him personally reclaim his sense of direction. We talk about the real-world impact of veterans who went from nearly giving up to running marathons again, Vietnam vets trying yoga for the first time, and the power of being seen and supported.

If you've been putting off taking care of yourself or think group workouts aren't for you, this conversation might change your mind.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.warriorstronginc.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Alternative PTSD Treatments That Work

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Blown up. Burned out. Ready to end it all.

That's where Sam Peterson found himself after his second deployment as an EOD tech. He nearly took his own life until one unexpected moment changed everything. What followed was a raw journey through trauma, healing, and finding purpose on the other side.

In this episode, Sam lays it all out. The silent epidemic of blast-induced brain trauma. The VA's broken model that tells you to "just manage it". And most importantly, the groundbreaking treatments that are helping veterans reclaim their lives in days, not years.

Ketamine therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, hyperbaric oxygen, and guided psychedelic experiences aren't fringe anymore. They're saving lives. Sam breaks down exactly how they work, who they're for, and why veterans need access to them now.

If you're tired of the runaround, if you feel like you've hit a wall, this episode might be the first real step toward getting your life back.

Timestamps

00:02:00 - The moment Sam almost took his own life
00:04:30 - Why the VA's "symptom management" model is broken
00:13:00 - The truth about TMS, ketamine, and hyperbaric therapy
00:28:00 - Why neuroplasticity can hurt you if done wrong
00:36:15 - Safe and smart ways veterans are using psychedelics

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.mindspadenver.com
Follow Sam Peterson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-peterson-mba/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Blindness Revealed a Veteran’s Strength

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Kijuan Amey had a plan. He was finishing school, building a business, and still serving in the Air Force Reserves. Then a motorcycle crash changed everything. He lost his sight, suffered major injuries, and had to figure out how to move forward in a world that suddenly looked very different.

In this conversation, we talk about what that recovery really looked like. Not just the surgeries or physical rehab, but the mental side too. The frustration, the isolation, the doubt. And also, the turning point when Kijuan decided that this wasn't going to be the end of his story.

He talks about learning to live with blindness, adjusting to daily challenges, and building a new mission through mentoring, speaking, and writing. For veterans who feel stuck or disconnected, this episode is a reminder that your circumstances don't define you. How you respond to them does.

If you're navigating life after service and trying to figure out what's next, there's a lot here that will hit home.

Timestamps

00:01:00 - How military service rewired Kijuan's mindset
00:08:45 - The motorcycle accident that changed everything
00:19:00 - Adapting to blindness and finding new strength
00:25:00 - Turning tragedy into motivation for others
00:33:00 - The first step when life punches you in the face

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://ameymotivation.com
Follow Kijuan Amey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kijuan-amey-783889121

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Tools to Reclaim Your Life After Combat

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Jake Rademacher didn't wear the uniform, but the war still shaped his life. His two brothers served in Iraq, and that personal connection drove him to create the documentary Brothers at War. What started as a way to understand his siblings' experiences turned into something much bigger: a tool to help other veterans process their own stories.

In this conversation, Jake shares how storytelling, film, and honest dialogue can open doors for healing. He talks about sitting in on veteran groups, watching men let go of years of silence, and seeing the impact of simply being heard. We also get into why journaling works, what post-traumatic growth really looks like, and how small acts of reflection can lead to big changes.

There's a lot here for veterans who are working through their own transitions. Whether you're dealing with trauma, searching for purpose, or just trying to feel a little more understood, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone and that sharing your story can be part of the solution.

Timestamps

00:02:00 - From family to front lines and back again
00:05:00 - How filming war helped Jake process trauma
00:10:45 - The moment a sniper breaks down and heals
00:26:00 - Real-time healing in veteran seminars
00:31:45 - Why post-traumatic growth is possible for every veteran

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://brothersafterwar.com/
Follow Brothers After War on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brothersafterwar/
Follow Brothers After War on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brothersafterwar/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Other Side of the GWOT

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Not everyone who served in the Global War on Terrorism wore a uniform. Ganpat "Gunner" Wagh started as a Marine, moved into law enforcement, and then spent years as an FBI agent working everything from cybercrime to counterterrorism. Eventually, that led him to Afghanistan, where he deployed alongside Special Forces as part of a quiet but critical support mission.

In this episode, Gunner shares what it's like to carry the mission forward in less visible ways and why those roles still carry the weight of service. He also talks about reconnecting with an old teammate in the most unexpected place and how that moment pulled him into the heart of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://gwotmemorialfoundation.org

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Meditation Tools for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Pain and anxiety don't always show up on the outside, but they can dominate your inner world. That's the reality Ann Swanson lived with until she discovered practical, science-backed ways to reduce her chronic pain and anxiety. Mike Swanson, a former Army intelligence officer, faced a different battlefield. Stress, leadership pressure, and the hidden stigma around mental health in the military.

Together, they share how yoga, meditation, and small breathing practices helped them take back control. They share stories about anxiety attacks in doctor's offices, suicide attempts in a bunker in paradise, and why leading from the front requires taking care of your mind.

From box breathing to the "3-3-3" method and one-minute meditations you can do at work or before opening that stress-inducing email, this episode gives you a whole new toolkit. If you think meditation isn't for you, this one might change your mind.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.scienceof.yoga/
Follow Ann Swanson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceof.yoga
Follow Ann Swanson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-swanson/
Other links: www.meditationfortherealworld.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ANNSWANSONWELLNESS

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Strength Is a Choice You Make

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

When you've been wrecked physically, mentally, or spiritually, it's easy to believe that you're done. But Marine Corps veteran Brandon Mancine's story proves that strength isn't about never getting knocked down-it's about deciding to get back up, every damn time.

After being pinned between two trucks by an intoxicated driver, Brandon was told he'd never return to the kind of elite physical conditioning he once had. Instead of accepting that fate, he made a decision that reshaped his life and mindset. In this episode, Brandon opens up about the accident that changed everything, the grit it took to come back, and the systems he built to stay strong for his kids, his clients, and himself.

From training through chronic pain and old injuries to leading with humility and strength as a father and coach, Brandon gives real advice for rebuilding after life's hardest hits. Whether you're dealing with physical limitations, emotional battles, or transition blues, his message is clear: strength is something you can rebuild. And it starts one rep, one step, one choice at a time.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.bmfcoaching.com
Follow Brandon Mancine on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mancine/
Follow Brandon Mancine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbrandonmancine/
Follow Brandon Mancine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-mancine-69833b14/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

500 Times Veterans Chose to Drive On

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We made it to 500 episodes! Honestly, I didn't expect to hit this number when I first started the Drive On Podcast. I figured I'd try it out, see if it helped anyone, and maybe move on if it didn't. But here we are, and that's thanks to you, the listeners who stuck around, shared the show, and kept me going.

In episode 100, I said: "I don't think I'll do another one of these milestone episodes anytime soon either. One hundred seemed significant to me, so I wanted to do this one. Maybe I'll do another when I hit the 500th episode, if I make it that long...Who knows if I'll still be doing it by then. I hope I am, but you never know." I guess, we now know the answer to that!

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain a bit. I talk about how the podcast got started, why I felt called to do it, and who the show is really for. I also answer five questions that came in from listeners, covering things like growth, lessons learned, podcast gear, and how the podcast has changed me along the way.

This one's a little more personal. I talk about grief, PTSD, connection, and how talking with other veterans has helped me, and hopefully helped you too. Whether you've been with me since the early days or you just found the show, I think this episode gives you a solid look at what Drive On is all about.

Listener Questions Answered:

What's one thing I wish I started doing earlier that became a game changer?
What's my most memorable moment on the podcast?
What drew me to podcasting, and what gear do you really need to get started?
What's my "why behind the why"?
Has this show changed me? (Spoiler: it has.)

Thanks for being part of this milestone. If the show's helped you in any way, I'd love it if you'd share this episode with someone who might need to hear it.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Get Descript for the easiest podcast editing: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/descript/
Episodes mentioned in the show: Ep 360 Doug Brinker Beacon 4 HOPE Ep 363 Jeff Circle Empowering Veterans Through Writing Ep 444 JP Perez Transforming Lives with VetRise Academy

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Dark Humor Keeps Veterans Alive

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Leaving the military doesn't mean your battles are over. It just changes the battlefield. In this raw, relatable episode, Navy veteran and podcast host Mr. Whiskey shares his story from the high-suicide-rate nuclear program to enduring one of the Navy's most toxic command environments aboard the USS George Washington. He opens up about the weight of grief, loss, and leadership failure. And why getting out didn't magically fix anything.

We dive deep into why finding a new mission is so critical after service and how comedy, real talk, and connection can save lives. From breaking cycles of abuse in command culture to mentoring the next generation of service members, this episode delivers gut-checks, laughs, and a ton of heart.

If you've ever felt like you were promised something on the way out that never arrived, this conversation is for you.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://coupleonukes.com
Follow Couple O' Nukes on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/coupleonukes/
Follow Mr. Whiskey on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-whiskey-921b70299/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding Brotherhood After Combat

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Coming home doesn't always mean you're back. For Marine Corps reservist Ron Jansen, the toughest battles came long after Iraq, when the mission was over and the noise faded. Like so many veterans, he tried to pick up where he left off. A full-time job. Family life. No time to think about what really happened downrange. But trauma doesn't stay quiet forever. It showed up in his relationships, his stress, and the nagging sense that something inside still hadn't healed. In this episode, we dive deep into the hidden cost of suppressing your experience and the surprising freedom that comes from facing it head-on. Ron opens up about the therapeutic power of writing, the raw difficulty of vulnerability, and the camaraderie rediscovered through outdoor retreats and faith-based community. If you've ever felt disconnected, like you're "just getting by," this conversation will hit home. This isn't about wallowing in the past. It's about integrating it so you can actually move forward. Here's where the real breakthroughs happen:

Timestamps

00:01:00 - Avoiding emotions after deployment and why it backfires00:04:00 - Writing a combat memoir as a path to healing00:11:30 - Finding therapy in wilderness retreats and group connection00:17:00 - Shedding the armor of invincibility after service00:26:45 - Why storytelling and brotherhood can change everything

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://anotherwisehealthyperson.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Honoring the GWOT Generation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

It's one thing to survive war, it's another to make sure it's remembered.

In this powerful conversation, Special Forces veteran Michael "Rod" Rodríguez opens up about his journey through combat, traumatic injury, and personal loss, and how those experiences led him to a new mission: building the Global War on Terrorism Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Rod isn't just talking about his story. He's fighting for all our stories - service members, Gold Star families, civilian contractors, and anyone touched by the Global War on Terrorism. As the president and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, Rod walks us through what it takes to build a national memorial: the red tape, the victories, and the deep emotional stakes of making sure our generation isn't forgotten.

From delivering hope in Somalia to eating charges on breaching missions, Rod's story is one of grit, growth, and leadership. But more than anything, it's about building something that lasts, not just for us, but for the next generation who needs to know what we lived through.

Timestamps

00:06:42 – Early deployments and the reality of combat in Somalia 00:17:31 – TBI, PTSD, and the personal cost of continuing to serve 00:28:50 – Reaching rock bottom and finding healing through purpose 00:41:12 – Why the Global War on Terrorism Memorial matters now 01:01:46 – Honoring the invisible wounds and collective sacrifice of the GWOT generation

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/
Follow GWOTMF on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gwotmf/
Follow GWOTMF on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwotmf/
Follow GWOTMF on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GWOTMF/
Follow GWOTMF on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-war-on-terror-memorial-foundation

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Turning the Page on PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

After deployment, some warriors come home. Others just arrive.

Dustin Carter opens up about how writing became more than a hobby-it became his lifeline. From his rough start before service to finding purpose in the Guard, then facing the spiral of isolation, anger, and a VA system that wanted to medicate instead of listen, Dustin didn't just survive-he wrote his way through.

His novel, The Veteran, follows a fictional soldier on a hauntingly real path-homelessness, addiction, trauma-and the slow, uphill climb back through therapy, routine, and the camaraderie of fellow vets.

This conversation is raw, unfiltered, and full of the kind of insight only a vet could offer. Whether you're in the thick of your own battle or trying to support someone who is, this episode offers hope, perspective, and a few hard truths that might just spark change.

Timestamps

04:00 - Dustin Carter on how structure in the military gave him purpose 08:15 - Why writing became his escape from pills and pain 11:00 - Behind The Veteran: A raw story of spiraling and recovery 20:45 - Rebuilding with movement, connection, and purpose 32:00 - A haircut, a suit, and the spark that changed everything

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
https://www.dustincarter512.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Nutrition and Mental Health for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000

You trained hard, ate right, and stayed in top physical condition in the military. But after getting out? It's easy for those habits to fall apart. Food becomes a comfort, a coping mechanism, or just an afterthought in the chaos of civilian life. And before you know it, the disciplined approach you once had is gone. In this episode, Jessica Setnick, a nutritionist specializing in eating behaviors, breaks down why so many veterans struggle with food after service. We dive into the connection between food and mental health, how stress alters your eating habits, and why so many of us reach for food as a way to deal with emotions. This conversation isn't about dieting or counting calories-it's about understanding your relationship with food so you can take back control. If you've ever found yourself stress-eating, skipping meals, or feeling out of sync with your body, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

01:00 - Why veterans struggle with food after service
09:30 - The link between stress, emotions, and eating habits
25:00 - How military training shapes your eating behaviors
39:00 - Practical strategies to improve your relationship with food
48:45 - Recognizing when food is covering up deeper struggles

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
https://JessicaSetnick.com
https://HealingYourInnerEater.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Archery for PTSD Relief

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 29 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

When Sam Westfall left the military, he felt the weight of transition, PTSD, and loss of purpose. He tried to cope the way many veterans do-through alcohol and firearms, which aren't the best combination-but nothing seemed to work. That all changed the day a friend handed him a bow.

In this episode, Sam shares how archery became his path to mental clarity and emotional stability. Through Archery N Motion and the Valor Archery Challenge, he's introducing fellow veterans to the same sense of peace and focus that transformed his life. Whether you're looking for an alternative therapy for PTSD, a way to rebuild camaraderie, or just a new challenge, this conversation will open your eyes to the unexpected healing power of archery.

Plus, Sam breaks down why archery is a mental game, a form of mindfulness, and a bridge to connection with other veterans. He also dives into how the Valor Archery Challenge is creating a space where veterans can shoot, connect, and discover new opportunities.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or just in need of an outlet that actually works, you'll want to hear this one.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Valor Archery Challenge: https://ValorArcheryChallenge.com
Archery N Motion: https://ArcheryNMotion.com
Follow Valor Archery Challenge on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561361586630
Follow Valor Archery Challenge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valorarcherychallenge/
Follow Sam Westfall on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-westfall-2227433/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

What Vietnam Taught Us About the GWOT

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

War leaves a lasting impact-not just on those who fight, but on the generations that follow. Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Naughton grew up in the shadow of his father's Vietnam service, ultimately choosing to follow in his footsteps. With a career spanning the infantry, medical corps, and leadership roles in Washington, D.C., he brings a unique perspective on how war shapes identity, leadership, and transition. In this episode, we discuss the lessons military leaders should have learned from Vietnam and how those mistakes were repeated in Iraq and Afghanistan. Patrick shares insights from his book, Born From War, which parallels his father's time in Vietnam with his own service in Iraq, and how history continues to shape the military experience. We also dive into the challenges of reintegration, the importance of finding a new mission after service, and why military leadership isn't always about filling sandbags next to your troops. Whether you're navigating transition, struggling to find purpose, or just looking for real conversations about military life, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom from the front lines and beyond.

Timestamps

00:02:45 - From Infantry to Medical Officer: A Unique Military Journey00:07:15 - Vietnam and Iraq: The Same Mistakes Repeated00:16:00 - The Truth About Military Leadership and Mission Creep00:29:30 - Why Metrics and Numbers Don't Tell the Whole Story00:37:00 - Finding Purpose and Passion After Service

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.patnaughton.com/
Born From War: https://www.casematepublishers.com/9781636245140/born-from-war/
Follow Patrick Naughton on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patrick.naughton.37
Follow Patrick Naughton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patricknaugh/
Follow Patrick Naughton on Twitter/X: https://x.com/PatrickMilHis
Follow Patrick Naughton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-naughton-0a077b158/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veterans Transitioning to Cybersecurity Careers

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 22 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Leaving the military comes with challenges-redefining your purpose, finding a meaningful career, and stepping into an unfamiliar civilian world where your experience isn't always understood. But what if your military skills could be the key to success in one of the fastest-growing and most mission-driven industries today? The cybersecurity field is facing a massive talent shortage, and veterans have exactly what it takes to fill the gap. Tactical decision-making, problem-solving under pressure, and a mission-first mindset-these are the same skills that make an effective cyber professional. In this episode, we sit down with Ricoh Danielson, an Army veteran and cybersecurity expert, to break down how veterans can transition into cyber careers, whether they have a technical background or not. We dive into the real-world pathways available, including training programs, certifications, and networking strategies that get veterans in the door. Ricoh shares his own journey from the battlefield to cybersecurity, how he built a successful career in the industry, and why veterans are uniquely suited to excel in this space. If you're looking for a career that offers both purpose and opportunity, cybersecurity might just be your next mission. Listen in as we map out the steps to make it happen.

Timestamps 03:15 - Recognizing transferable military skills suitable for cybersecurity 12:40 - Training programs and certifications tailored for veterans 25:10 - Navigating the cybersecurity job market as a veteran 37:55 - Success stories: Veterans thriving in cybersecurity roles 48:20 - Resources and support systems for veterans entering tech fields

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Brandon Act and the Fight to End Military Suicide

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Some wounds don't come from the battlefield-they come from within the ranks. Brandon Caserta was strong. Disciplined. Determined. He had a dream to serve in the military, to push himself to the limits, to be part of something greater than himself. But when he faced toxic leadership, retaliation, and neglect from those meant to lead, the weight became unbearable. His parents, Terri and Patrick Caserta, were left with the unimaginable loss of their son. But instead of letting their grief consume them, they fought back-championing the Brandon Act, a law ensuring service members can confidentially seek mental health help without fear of retaliation. In this episode, we discuss:

Brandon's story-the warning signs, the failures, and the tragic end
The deep-seated issues of toxic leadership in the military
How the Brandon Act is changing the way service members access mental health care
What veterans and active-duty personnel can do to protect themselves and support their brothers and sisters in arms

Brandon should still be here. His story should have had a different ending. But because of his parents' fight, lives are being saved today. Listen in and share this episode-because no service member should feel alone in their struggle.

Timestamps

00:02:15 - Who Brandon Caserta was and the values he lived by 00:10:15 - The toxic leadership and broken culture within the Navy 00:29:00 - The events leading up to Brandon's death on the flight line 01:04:20 - How Terri and Patrick uncovered the truth and began their fight 01:32:10 - What the Brandon Act means for today's service members

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.thebrandonact.org
Foundation: https://www.brandoncasertafoundation.org
Follow The Brandon Act on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebrandonact
Follow The Brandon Act on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrandonact/
Follow The Brandon Act on Twitter/X: https://x.com/ActBrandon
Follow The Brandon Act on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-brandon-act-719821228/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Key to a Successful Military Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 15 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Losing the uniform doesn't mean losing your mission. But for a lot of veterans, the transition out of service feels like being dropped into an unknown world without a map. That's exactly what Rob Sarver and Alex Gendzier set out to fix. After years of interviews with veterans, deep research into military transition, and personal experience, they wrote Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey-a guide designed to help veterans navigate the mental, emotional, and professional challenges of post-service life.

In this episode, they break down the biggest obstacles veterans face-loss of identity, lack of purpose, job struggles, and mental health hurdles-and provide real-world strategies to overcome them. From the wisdom of ancient warrior cultures to the latest research on PTSD, career fulfillment, and personal growth, this conversation is packed with insights every veteran needs to hear.

If you're a veteran looking for a blueprint to a successful transition-or you know someone who needs one-this episode is a must-listen.

Timestamps: 00:01:00 - Why transition is so hard for veterans 00:07:15 - The biggest mistakes veterans make after leaving service 00:12:45 - Finding purpose in civilian life 00:18:30 - Mental health strategies that actually work 00:25:00 - How to prepare for transition the right way

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey: https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/B0D4WJB7YL/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Officers Eat Last

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What happens when you transition out of the military and the leadership in civilian life doesn't measure up? Jason West, a Marine veteran and leadership consultant, breaks down why leadership matters more than ever when building a business, leading a team, or just trying to create purpose in your post-service life. From his experiences in the Marine Corps to running his consulting firm, Officers Eat Last, Jason shares the foundational leadership principles that keep teams strong and mission-focused-whether on the battlefield or in the boardroom. He also explains why purpose-driven leadership isn't just a buzzword but a critical mindset shift for veterans looking to succeed after the military.

Jason discusses how leadership evolves from being about physical capability to strategic thinking, why great leaders serve their people first, and how veterans can apply military leadership principles to business and life. If you've ever felt frustrated by weak leadership in the civilian world or struggled to find a meaningful role post-service, this episode is packed with insights to help you take charge and lead with impact.

Timestamps: 04:30 - Jason's journey from football to the Marine Corps 12:15 - The evolution of leadership from enlisted to officer 27:00 - Why "Officers Eat Last" is more than just a saying 39:45 - Finding purpose after military service 50:15 - Tactical leadership strategies for business and life

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.officerseatlast.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Overcoming Moral Injury

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 08 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The war doesn't always end when you come home. For many veterans, the toughest battles are fought in silence-moral injury, survivor's guilt, and the search for meaning after service. Retired Army Sergeant Eric Donoho lived it. After surviving multiple IED blasts, he returned home to a life that felt shattered, eventually finding himself at the brink of suicide. But that wasn't the end of his story.

Through mountain climbs, advocacy, and discovering the power of faith-wherever that may be found-Eric transformed his pain into purpose. He now fights for veteran-focused legislation, educates others on moral injury, and helps fellow warriors find their own path forward. In this episode, he shares his journey, the struggles so many veterans face, and actionable insights on how to rebuild after the darkest days. Whether you're battling your own demons or want to understand the hidden wounds of war, this conversation is one you don't want to miss.

Timestamps: 01:15 - The moment that nearly ended it all and the path to recovery 04:00 - Moral injury vs. PTSD: Understanding the difference and why it matters 12:45 - Fighting for veterans on Capitol Hill and advocating for change 28:30 - The role of faith and community in healing 45:15 - Turning struggle into purpose and helping fellow veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.ericdonoho.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veterans Turning Pain into Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We all have demons. Some we fought on the battlefield, others we fight in our own minds. For Army veteran Juan Espinoza, the weight of his experiences nearly crushed him-until he found a way to process the pain. After years of bottling up emotions and trying to "just push through," Juan hit a breaking point. One cold December night, he stepped into the rain, dropped to his knees, and screamed for purpose. What followed was an outpouring of emotion that turned into a book-written in just two days-that changed his life forever.

In this episode, Juan shares how writing became his therapy, how shifting your perspective can change your life, and why true strength comes from vulnerability, not suppression. Whether you're a veteran dealing with the unseen scars of service, struggling with relationships, or searching for purpose after the uniform comes off, this conversation will hit home.

And if you think you're not the "writing type," Juan's story might just change your mind.

Timestamps: 02:45 - Juan's Army career and combat deployments 10:45 - Writing as a form of healing and self-reflection 22:30 - The power of perspective in overcoming pain 35:45 - Strength in vulnerability and breaking toxic cycles 50:15 - How veterans can start their healing journey

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://juanespinoza.me

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Veterans Struggle With Civilian Careers

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 01 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Leaving the military is hard. Finding the right job? Even harder. Veterans often find themselves stuck in jobs that don't match their skills, struggling to translate their military experience into something that makes sense to civilian employers.

Jon Safran, a 23-year Air Force veteran and Chief Military Engagement Advisor at MilitaryConnected.org, knows this challenge firsthand. His mission? To bridge the gap between veterans and military-ready companies that understand and value their skills.

In this episode, we explain why many veterans feel lost in their first civilian job, the biggest transition mistakes to avoid, and how to connect with companies ready to hire and support veterans. If you're about to leave the military-or if you've already transitioned and are frustrated with the job search-this episode is for you.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://militaryconnected.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Healing PTSD Through Communication

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Too many veterans are handed a diagnosis and a prescription-but never a real solution. Dr. Fred Moss has spent decades working in psychiatry, only to realize that true healing doesn't come from medication-it comes from connection.

In this episode, Dr. Moss shares how veterans can reclaim their mental health by finding their true voice and engaging in meaningful communication. We explore why psychiatric labels can do more harm than good, how technology has changed the way we connect, and the power of listening as a healing tool.

For veterans struggling with PTSD, anxiety, or feeling lost after service, this episode is a wake-up call. Healing requires more than just suppressing emotions; it involves understanding them, embracing them, and using them to build deeper human connections.

Timestamps:

04:15 - Why communication-not medication-is the key to healing
16:45 - The power of human connection in overcoming PTSD
30:10 - Why society's definition of "normal" is flawed
45:20 - Breaking free from psychiatric labels and reclaiming identity
57:45 - Practical strategies to heal through self-expression

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://welcometohumanity.net
Follow Fred Moss on Instagram: https://instagram.com/drfredmoss
Follow Fred Moss on Twitter/X: https://x.com/drfredmoss

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Daughter Carrying a Fallen Hero’s Legacy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Some sacrifices are too big to be forgotten. When Major Brent Taylor was killed in action in 2018, his daughter Megan Taylor was only 13 years old. Now, at 19, she's carrying on his legacy in powerful ways-through advocacy, remembrance, and leadership in the veteran community.

In this episode, Megan opens up about growing up in a family shaped by both military and civic service. Her father wasn't just a soldier; he was a mayor, a mentor, and a man who led by example. She shares personal memories, the impact of his loss on her family, and how she has found strength in the military community.

Megan also talks about her role in the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation and why she's working to ensure that every service member's sacrifice is honored while they're still here to see it. This episode is about more than grief-it's about purpose, resilience, and ensuring that no one who served is ever forgotten.

Timestamps: 00:01:15 - The life and service of Major Brent Taylor 00:05:45 - Growing up with a father in the military and public service 00:12:00 - Becoming a Gold Star child and navigating loss 00:21:30 - Lessons in resilience and selflessness 00:29:15 - The Global War on Terrorism Memorial and why it matters

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Faith and Resilience After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Losing camaraderie after leaving the military can be one of the hardest parts of the transition. No one seems to understand, and it's easy to feel isolated-even in a room full of people. But what if there was a way to rebuild that sense of purpose and connection?

Enter Charles Watkins, an Army veteran who knows firsthand what it's like to struggle after service. As a former chaplain assistant, he spent his time in the military helping soldiers through their toughest moments. But after leaving the Army, he found himself battling his own transition struggles, feeling lost, and searching for meaning.

That search led him to faith-not just in a traditional sense, but as a tool for resilience, healing, and finding purpose. Charles started Breaking the Silence, an organization designed to support veterans and first responders through faith-based and secular resources, giving them a safe place to connect, share, and rebuild.

In this episode, Charles and Scott discuss:

How military service impacts mental and spiritual well-being
The struggles veterans face when transitioning out of service
Why faith and resilience go hand-in-hand
The importance of community and finding a mission after the military
Actionable steps for veterans looking to reclaim their sense of purpose

If you've ever felt lost, disconnected, or like something was missing, this conversation is for you. You don't have to do this alone-there's a tribe waiting for you.

Timestamps:

00:02:00 - Charles' journey from Army chaplain assistant to veteran advocate
00:07:00 - The unseen struggles veterans face after leaving service
00:14:30 - How faith and resilience work together for healing
00:25:00 - The power of veteran community and shared experience
00:37:15 - How to find purpose and service after the military

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://the22.org
Follow Charles Watkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/4the22/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingTheSilenceYT

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Fitness, Mindset, and Veteran Success

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Life after the military can feel like stepping into the unknown. That sense of mission, the camaraderie, the structure-it's suddenly gone. But what if you could rebuild, stronger than before?

Peter Gunn, a retired Air Force veteran, knows that struggle firsthand. He transitioned through multiple phases of military service, experienced the mental toll of combat stress, and faced the challenge of redefining himself. Now, he's thriving as a competitive bodybuilder and an author, using his experiences to inspire and empower others.

In this episode, Peter shares his journey-from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan to discovering alternative therapies for PTSD and channeling his discipline into bodybuilding and writing. We dive deep into what it takes to stay mission-focused in civilian life, the power of continuous growth, and why embracing new challenges is key to success beyond the uniform.

If you're a veteran navigating your own transition, feeling stuck, or looking for motivation to push forward, this episode is for you.

Key Highlights:

04:00 - The transition from active duty to reserves
06:45 - PTSD triggers and discovering alternative healing
12:00 - Writing as a tool for self-discovery and purpose
18:30 - Outgrowing old relationships and embracing growth
24:45 - Why fitness and discipline are key to longevity

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.petergunn.net

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Alternative Healing for PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The war might be over, but for many veterans, the battle continues long after they return home. Sleepless nights, intrusive memories, and the frustration of feeling unheard are all too common. But what if the traditional routes-therapy, medication, the VA-aren't working for you?

Army veteran and nurse practitioner Bee Doyle knows that struggle firsthand. After experiencing severe combat trauma, she found herself lost in a cycle of PTSD, alcohol abuse, and self-doubt. The traditional treatment methods weren't enough, so she sought something different.

In this episode, Bee shares how alternative healing methods-acupuncture, breathwork, astrology, and energy healing-helped her break free from trauma and reclaim her life. She dives into the science and spirituality behind these practices, why they work for some veterans when conventional therapy doesn't, and how you can begin your own journey toward healing.

If you've ever felt like you're out of options, this conversation might just change everything.

Timestamps:

00:04:30 - Combat experience and the trauma that followed
00:12:15 - Struggling with PTSD and traditional treatments
00:26:30 - Discovering alternative healing methods
00:38:45 - How astrology and energy healing transformed Bee's life
00:50:00 - Advice for skeptics and next steps for healing

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.doublelibraastrology.com/
Follow Bee Doyle on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Doublelibracoaching

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Why Veterans Make the Best Leaders

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Trust. Resilience. Leadership. In the military, they weren't optional-they were life or death. But after service? No one hands you a guidebook on how to apply those same skills to the real world.

Michael Allison knows this firsthand. A Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Michael faced combat, injury, and the challenges of transition head-on. Now, as the CEO of The Adversity Academy, he's helping veterans and professionals alike redefine leadership, conquer adversity, and take control of their lives.

In this episode, Michael shares:

The crucial leadership lessons forged in combat
How trust and adaptability are the cornerstones of success
Why mental resilience is the key to overcoming life's toughest moments
His Break the Bottle Challenge and how it's changing lives
The mindset shift every veteran needs to step into their full potential

Timestamps:

02:15 - Lessons in trust and leadership from combat

07:30 - Preparing for the unexpected: Why training matters in business and life

14:15 - The Break the Bottle Challenge: A new approach to resilience

25:00 - How adversity can shape your future success

38:45 - Building the right team: Why relationships are everything

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://michaelwallison.com/
https://theadversityacademy.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Practical Pain Solutions for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Chronic pain is something many veterans live with every day, whether it's from service-related injuries or the wear and tear of life. But what if you didn't have to rely on pain meds or go under the knife to get relief?

Dr. Winifred Bragg, a board-certified pain management physician, has spent over 25 years helping people treat back, neck, and orthopedic pain-without surgery. In this episode, she breaks down the biggest myths about back pain, why so many people rush into surgery unnecessarily, and what you can do right now to manage your pain naturally.

She also shares her "MEDS" method-Mindset, Exercise, Doing what you love, and Sleep-simple changes that can make a massive difference in your pain levels. Plus, we dive into what spinal stenosis and herniated discs mean for your health and how to tell if you're seeing the right doctor for your pain.

This episode is a must-listen if you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain.

Timestamps:

02:00 - Why most back pain doesn't need surgery 04:30 - The "MEDS" approach to pain management 10:15 - The truth about spinal stenosis and how to treat it 18:45 - Herniated discs: What they mean for your health 30:00 - Heat vs. ice: What works and when to use it

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.knockoutpain.com
Knock Out Pain book: https://www.amazon.com/KnockOutPain-Secrets-Maintain-Healthy-Back/dp/0997008202/ref=sr_1_1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veterans and the Tools That Keep Us Sharp

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Knives have always been more than just tools for veterans-they're symbols of skill, precision, and independence. But what happens when injuries or years of service-related wear make it harder to use the tools you once mastered? Doug Katz, a West Point graduate and disabled Army veteran, saw firsthand how physical limitations can steal confidence in the kitchen. So, he did what veterans do best. He adapted and overcame, creating the NULU Knife, a tool designed to give control back to those who need it most.

In this episode, Doug shares his journey from the military to entrepreneurship and how he developed an adaptive knife that goes beyond making cooking easier-it helps veterans regain confidence and control in the kitchen. Whether you're dealing with combat injuries, arthritis, or aging joints, this conversation will change how you think about the tools you use daily.

We also get into the veteran mindset regarding using gear, why traditional kitchen knives don't work for everyone, and how small innovations can make a huge impact on everyday life. If you've ever struggled with something that used to feel second nature, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

00:06:00 - Innovating adaptive tools
00:09:00 - Personal struggles that sparked the NULU Knife
00:22:00 - Why smart design benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities
00:34:00 - The connection between military innovation and everyday problem-solving
00:44:00 - Encouraging veterans to turn their challenges into business opportunities

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://nuluknives.com
Follow Douglas Katz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d.m.katz/
Follow Douglas Katz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaskatz/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Addiction Recovery Without Meds

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Addiction isn't just a bad habit-it's your brain craving relief. For many veterans, that relief comes in the form of smoking, drinking, or even harder substances to cope with PTSD, stress, or physical pain. But what if you could break free without white-knuckling through withdrawal?

In this episode, Meridee Hlokoff shares how she went from struggling with addiction herself to running Laser Quit, a business using cold laser therapy to help people quit smoking, drinking, and even heavy drugs. By targeting the brain's addiction response at its core, this method tricks the mind into thinking it's already had its fix-eliminating cravings and making it easier to step away from harmful substances.

We break down:

What cold laser therapy is and how it works
Why traditional quitting methods fail for so many people
How this therapy is giving veterans a new path to recovery
The surprising science behind addiction and dopamine regulation
What's next for Laser Quit and how they're expanding access to this life-changing treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, this episode is a must-listen. Stick around for actionable advice that could make all the difference.

Timestamps:

00:01:00 - How cold laser therapy rewires addiction
00:05:45 - From smoking to heroin: Why the science works for all addictions
00:12:30 - The real reason quitting feels impossible
00:20:00 - How veterans can use this therapy for PTSD and stress relief
00:35:15 - Breaking the cycle: Building new habits after addiction

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://msha.ke/laserquit

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding Freedom from Anxiety and PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Many veterans struggle with anxiety, PTSD, and the hidden battles that linger long after their service ends. Army veteran and licensed professional counselor Healey Ikerd understands that firsthand. With over 17 years in the mental health field, she combines clinical expertise with personal experience to help veterans navigate transition challenges, mental health, and personal growth.

In this episode, Healey shares why so many veterans feel disconnected after leaving the military, the surprising ways trauma surfaces in daily life, and how to develop healthy coping strategies. She also discusses the importance of faith in healing, the power of cognitive behavioral therapy, and why acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength-not weakness.

From practical mental health tips to discussing her workbook, Changing Your Feelings: A Workbook for Anxiety and Worry from a Christian Perspective, Healey offers a roadmap for veterans seeking peace and fulfillment beyond their service. Whether you're struggling yourself or want to support a loved one, this conversation is packed with insight and actionable steps.

Timestamps: 05:30 - Understanding trauma's impact on daily life 10:45 - Why veterans struggle with seeking mental health help 15:00 - Healthy vs. unhealthy coping mechanisms 20:30 - The role of faith in healing from PTSD 25:15 - Practical mental health strategies every veteran should know 30:45 - How family and friends can support struggling veterans 35:00 - Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness 40:15 - Overview of Changing Your Feelings workbook

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://writtenbyhealey.com/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

A single decision changed everything for Mark O'Brien. One night in 2008, a tragic mistake led to the loss of someone he loved-and a journey of guilt, grief, and, ultimately, transformation. Mark shares his deeply personal story of learning to live with the consequences of his actions, facing the justice system, and finding a way to help others through advocacy and trauma-informed care.

He discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth-how individuals can come out of adversity stronger, with a deeper sense of purpose. His work now focuses on helping organizations support those affected by trauma, from addiction recovery to criminal justice reform. This episode is raw, real, and packed with lessons on accountability, resilience, and redemption.

For anyone struggling with guilt, grief, or finding a path forward after hardship, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Timestamps: 04:30 - The weight of guilt and grief 09:00 - The power of forgiveness and healing 14:15 - Facing the justice system and rebuilding life 18:45 - Barriers to reintegration after incarceration 24:00 - What is post-traumatic growth? 30:15 - Helping others through trauma-informed care 38:30 - The power of community and resilience 45:00 - Small wins and positive change

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.marklobrien.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Rising Strong After Combat Injury

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

A split-second decision, a devastating explosion, and a new reality. Marine Corps veteran Davey Lind lost both of his legs to an IED during his fifth combat deployment in Iraq. But instead of giving up, he made a commitment-to walk again, to push forward, and to inspire others. From the battlefield to becoming a CrossFit trainer and motivational speaker, Davey shares his journey of resilience, recovery, and rediscovering purpose. He talks about the mental battle of losing limbs, the power of a strong support system, and why he refuses to let injuries define his future. This episode is a must-listen for veterans looking for inspiration to push past adversity and build a meaningful life after service.

00:00 - The blast that changed everything 04:00 - Facing the reality of losing both legs 06:30 - Setting a goal to walk again 08:45 - Walking at a wedding just two months after injury 15:00 - The mental battle of recovery 22:00 - Finding purpose in CrossFit and helping others 30:15 - How physical fitness builds mental resilience 40:00 - The role of Semper Fi & America's Fund in his recovery 45:30 - Words of encouragement for other veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thefund.org
Follow Semper Fi and America's Fund on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/semperfiandamericasfund
Follow Semper Fi and America's Fund on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/semperfiandamericasfund/
Follow Semper Fi and America's Fund Twitter/X: https://x.com/semperfifund
Follow Semper Fi and America's Fund LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/semper-fi-and-americas-fund/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Military Discipline Built a Premium Scotch Brand

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Retired Marine Corps Major Eric Dominijanni shares his journey from the military to becoming the founder and CEO of FIOR Scotch. After years of service, Eric pursued his passion for fine spirits, applying the same discipline and commitment that defined his military career to crafting a high-quality Scotch. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from the Marine Corps into the spirits industry, the lessons he carried from military service, and how he built a veteran-owned brand from the ground up. Eric also shares insights on entrepreneurship, product development, and why attention to detail is crucial in the military and business worlds.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.fiorscotch.com
Follow Eric Dominijanni on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.dominijanni/
Follow Eric Dominijanni on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiorscotch/
Follow Eric Dominijanni on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-dominijanni-1261357/

Transcript

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Overcoming Addiction and Homelessness as a Veteran

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Jay Wylie, a Navy veteran, shares his journey from addiction and career loss to sobriety and purpose. After being relieved of command and facing a public downfall due to alcoholism, Jay turned his life around through recovery and now dedicates himself to helping veterans and first responders battling addiction and homelessness. As a leader at Confidential Recovery and the Veterans Navigation Center, he provides veterans with resources, peer support, and structured recovery programs. Jay discusses how trauma, shame, and fear can fuel substance abuse and why community support is essential for lasting change.

00:02:30 - Struggling with alcoholism and self-destruction 00:06:45 - Losing command and hitting rock bottom 00:12:15 - The moment Jay sought help and began recovery 00:20:30 - Confidential Recovery and Veterans Navigation Center 00:30:45 - Breaking the stigma around addiction and seeking help 00:45:15 - How veterans can find support and take the first step toward recovery

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Confidential Recovery: www.confidentialrecovery.com
Veterans Navigation Center: www.veteransnavigationcenter.org

Transcript

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Healing the Inner Wounds of War

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Ron Schneebaum, retired pediatrician and author of Bigger Hearted, shares his two-part approach to helping veterans heal their inner wounds. Drawing from his medical background and advocacy for mental health, he emphasizes the importance of reframing military experiences and practicing focused inner listening. Dr. Schneebaum explains how embracing love and compassion can help veterans process trauma, find self-acceptance, and lead more fulfilling lives. He also shares actionable strategies and offers free Zoom workshops to support veterans in their healing journey.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ron Schneebaum and Bigger Hearted 00:02:00 - Why veterans should reframe their military service experiences 00:08:30 - The power of love and compassion in overcoming trauma 00:15:00 - Practicing focused inner listening for self-awareness 00:25:45 - Learning self-acceptance and embracing inner strength 00:40:00 - Strategies for applying compassion in daily life 00:45:30 - Free resources and workshops for veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://biggerhearted.com

Transcript

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Surviving Suicide and Finding Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Sheridan Taylor, a Canadian Army combat veteran, former corrections officer, and suicide survivor, shares his raw and powerful story of survival, loss, and recovery. Sheridan reflects on the lessons learned from his military career, the struggles of transitioning to civilian life, and the emotional toll of losing his wife. He discusses how therapy and self-awareness helped him rebuild his life and how his book, Not Okay Okay A Roadmap Back from the Brink, serves as a guide for others navigating trauma and mental health challenges. Sheridan emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help, embracing vulnerability, and finding strength in community.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Sheridan Taylor’s military and personal journey 00:06:30 - Transitioning out of the military and dealing with loss 00:15:00 - The emotional toll of grief and trauma 00:25:45 - Overcoming societal stigmas around mental health 00:40:00 - The pivotal moment of asking for help 00:55:20 - Lessons learned from therapy and rebuilding life 01:06:00 - Insights from Not Okay Okay A Roadmap Back from the Brink

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Sheridan Taylor on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheridantaylorauthor
Follow Sheridan Taylor on Twitter/X: https://x.com/sheridanftaylor
Follow Sheridan Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheridan-taylor-7759b282/

Transcript

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Warrior Strong Helping Veterans Stay Fit and Connected

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Tom Tice, founder and CEO of Warrior Strong, shares how his organization helps veterans, first responders, and their families through free health and wellness programs. With offerings like yoga, breathwork, meditation, and fitness classes, Warrior Strong fosters camaraderie, combats loneliness, and encourages healthy lifestyles. Tom discusses the importance of building a supportive community and highlights the success stories of veterans who found purpose and strength through the program. Whether online or in-person, Warrior Strong is committed to improving the lives of those who serve and their families.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Warrior Strong and its mission 00:06:00 - The inspiration behind Warrior Strong 00:12:30 - Overview of health and wellness programs offered 00:18:45 - How Warrior Strong combats loneliness and obesity 00:25:15 - Success stories of veterans who found purpose 00:35:00 - Family-oriented programs and community support 00:40:00 - Upcoming events and how to get involved

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.warriorstronginc.org/
Follow Warrior Strong on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warriorstronginc
Follow Warrior Strong on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorstronginc/
Follow Warrior Strong on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/warrior-strong
Follow Warrior Strong on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@warriorstronginc.9685

Transcript

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Mastering Breathwork for a Better Life

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Tim Thomas, founder of Breathwork in Bed and Australian Special Forces veteran, shares the life-changing benefits of proper breathing techniques. Drawing from his military experience and deep understanding of sleep and wellness, Tim introduces simple yet powerful breathwork exercises to improve sleep quality, boost energy, and enhance mental clarity. He explains how small, intentional actions-like mastering the first 10 minutes of your day-can lead to profound changes in your personal and professional life. This episode offers actionable strategies to help listeners break free from fatigue, find inner strength, and reconnect with their purpose.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Tim Thomas and Breathwork in Bed 00:06:30 - Lessons from Special Forces and redefining resilience 00:15:00 - Importance of sleep as the foundation of life 00:25:45 - Winning the first 10 minutes of your day 00:35:00 - Demonstration of three simple breathwork techniques 01:10:00 - How breathwork helps veterans and their families 01:25:30 - Tools to reduce stress and reconnect with yourself 01:35:00 - Offering free resources for lasting results

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 (US)
Lifeline crisis support service is available 24/7: Dial 13 11 14 (Australia)
Website: www.breathworkinbed.com.au
Breathwork in Bed on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/breathworkinbed
Breathwork in Bed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breathworkinbed/

Transcript

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Fight Until the Lights Go Out

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Gary Pacelli, retired detective, Marine Corps veteran, and author, shares his gripping story of survival, recovery, and resilience after a life-changing skydiving accident left him paralyzed. Gary reflects on his military and law enforcement career, the harrowing moments after his accident, and the mental battle to rebuild his life. His journey illustrates the power of mindset, the importance of finding motivation, and the value of embracing life's challenges. From fighting self-doubt to re-learning basic tasks and eventually returning to the skies, Gary's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Gary Pacelli and his background 00:06:30 - The skydiving accident and its immediate aftermath 00:15:45 - Relearning basic tasks and fighting mental barriers 00:44:15 - Returning to skydiving and overcoming stigma 01:12:50 - Lessons learned and the importance of mindset 02:00:00 - Reflections on life, purpose, and resilience

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: http://gpacelli.com
Follow Gary Pacelli on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/min.diesel.106
Other links: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Gary-Pacelli/author/B0C2N9JYG7

Transcript

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Honor Guard Coffee Supporting Veterans and Service Dogs

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Steven Ferguson, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Honorguard Coffee, shares his journey from deployment to navigating the challenges of civilian life. He discusses how his service dog and alternative therapies helped him find healing and purpose. Inspired by his own struggles, Steven created Honorguard Coffee to break down barriers for veterans seeking service dogs and support. By combining entrepreneurship and advocacy, Steven is addressing the veteran suicide crisis and empowering grassroots organizations to make a real difference. This episode highlights resilience, the power of community, and innovative solutions to tackle mental health challenges.

01:00 - Steven's Marine Corps journey and deployments 05:30 - Challenges transitioning to civilian life after a medical retirement 12:00 - Finding healing through a service dog and alternative therapies 20:45 - The birth of Honor Guard Coffee and its mission 30:00 - Supporting grassroots organizations in combating veteran suicide 36:15 - Advice for veterans finding community and purpose

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://honorguardcoffee.com
Follow Honorguard Coffee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Honorguard-Coffee/61550838926220/
Follow Honorguard Coffee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honorguard_coffee/
Follow Honorguard Coffee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/honor-guard-inc
Follow Steven Ferguson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sferguson0352/

Transcript

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Go for No Turning Rejection Into Success

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Andrea Waltz, co-author of Go for No, shares the transformative power of embracing rejection as a pathway to success. In this conversation, Andrea explores how shifting perspectives on failure can lead to resilience, personal growth, and professional achievement. Drawing from her book, she outlines how hearing "no" can be a stepping stone rather than a roadblock and how military veterans, professionals, and anyone looking to push past barriers can apply this mindset to their lives. From career transitions to overcoming mental hurdles, Andrea highlights actionable strategies to turn setbacks into valuable learning experiences.

01:00 - Introducing Andrea Waltz and Go for No 04:30 - The concept of "Yes is the destination, No is how you get there" 08:15 - Lessons from failure and embracing a growth mindset 15:00 - Applying the Go for No mindset to career transitions 22:45 - Building resilience and confidence through rejection 30:00 - Practical advice for practicing persistence

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.goforno.com/
Follow Andrea Waltz on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoforNo
Follow Andrea Waltz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GoforNo
Follow Andrea Waltz on Twitter/X: https://x.com/GoforNo
Follow Andrea Waltz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goforno/

Transcript

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Connecting Rural Veterans to Vital Support

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Michelle Lang, Executive Director of Operation Honor: Rural Salute, shares how the organization connects rural veterans and their families to essential resources that are often hard to access in remote areas. Michelle discusses the unique challenges veterans face in rural communities, such as isolation and difficulty finding reliable support. Through in-person events and an online resource hub, Operation Honor: Rural Salute creates a trusted network of services that empower veterans to improve their mental health, access benefits, and connect with their communities. Michelle reflects on impactful stories from their events and provides insight into how rural veterans can discover the resources available to them. 01:00 - Michelle's journey and the founding of Operation Honor: Rural Salute 05:30 - Challenges faced by veterans in rural communities 11:15 - How in-person events foster connections and build trust 19:30 - Stories of impact from rural veteran events 26:00 - Online resources and building trust with rural veterans 34:45 - Advice for rural veterans and how to access benefits

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://ohruralsalute.org
Follow OHRS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OHRuralSalute
Follow OHRS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohruralsalute/
Follow Michelle Lang on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-baker-lang

Transcript

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Building a Community for Veterans Through Golf

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:42:16 +0000

Joshua Sears, retired Army Sergeant First Class and founder of the 100FORE22 Foundation shares his journey from combat deployments and personal struggles with mental health to creating a nonprofit supporting veterans, first responders, and their families. Joshua explains how golf became his therapy and inspired the foundation's mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health resources through marathon golf events. By combining camaraderie, competition, and community, the 100FORE22 Foundation significantly impacts the lives of those who have sacrificed so much. Learn how you can support their mission and join the fight to reduce veteran suicide.

01:00 - Joshua's military background and personal struggles 05:30 - The inspiration behind the 100FORE22 Foundation 10:15 - Using golf as a form of therapy and connection 15:45 - The impact of marathon golf events 22:30 - Stories of lives changed through the foundation's efforts 30:00 - How to support the 100FORE22 Foundation and upcoming events

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://100fore22foundation.org
Follow 100Fore22 Foundation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089301522721
Follow 100Fore22 Foundation on Instagram: https://instagram.com/100fore22_foundation

Transcript

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Helping Heroes Find Their Dream Home

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

David Cain, CEO of Heroes Home Advantage, discusses a real estate program dedicated to giving back to military members, first responders, healthcare workers, educators, and their families. This nationwide network of realtors, lenders, and attorneys offers significant savings by returning a portion of commissions to qualifying heroes. David explains how the program simplifies home buying, reduces costs, and connects individuals with professionals who genuinely care about their service and sacrifice. He highlights the program's benefits, nationwide reach, and why it's critical to start the home-buying process with Heroes Home Advantage. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in these professions considering buying or selling a home.

01:00 - Introduction to Heroes Home Advantage 03:15 - Eligibility criteria for the program 05:45 - How Heroes Home Advantage supports everyday heroes 09:30 - The financial benefits of the program 15:00 - Importance of starting with Heroes Home Advantage before hiring a realtor 20:45 - The program's nationwide reach and why it stands out 30:00 - How listeners can share this program with their community

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.heroeshomeadvantage.com/
Follow Heroes Home Advantage on Facebook: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heroes-home-advantage-llc/
Follow Heroes Home Advantage on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroes_home_advantage/
Follow Heroes Home Advantage on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heroes-home-advantage-llc/
Follow Heroes Home Advantage on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrF0nKK59yXl_b0_TXp8nCA
Follow Heroes Home Advantage on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heroeshomeadvantage

Transcript

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Lessons in Resilience from a Combat Physician

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Josh McConkey, a colonel, author, and emergency physician, shares insights from his military and medical careers in this impactful discussion. He reflects on lessons learned from combat deployments, reintegration challenges, and strategies for managing stress and building resilience. Dr. McConkey highlights the importance of finding purpose, leveraging community support, and recognizing the value of teamwork in achieving personal and professional success. He also discusses his book, The Weight Behind the Spear, which encourages individuals to embrace their roles as community supporters and leaders. The conversation touches on overcoming life's obstacles, adapting to challenges, and the unique skills veterans bring to society.

01:00 - Dr. McConkey's background in emergency medicine and military service 06:15 - Lessons from deployment and overcoming fear in combat 14:30 - Building resilience through faith, exercise, and community 20:00 - Challenges faced by the "COVID generation" in the military 25:45 - The value of teamwork and leadership in building confidence 33:00 - Key takeaways from The Weight Behind the Spear and its mission

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.weightbehindthespear.com
Follow Josh McConkey on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshua.mcconkey/
Follow Josh McConkey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshmcconkeymd/
Follow Josh McConkey on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mcconkey007
Follow Josh McConkey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-mcconkey-md/

Transcript

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Transforming Obstacles into Opportunities

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Philip Agrios, founder and CEO of Transcend Now, shares the TNow Method, a practical approach to overcoming self-sabotaging behaviors. He explains how understanding inborn sabotaging traits can help individuals break negative patterns and achieve personal and professional growth. The episode highlights the three main reasons people self-sabotage: fear of losing success, sidestepping necessary steps, and the pain of increased success. It also offers actionable steps to move forward with confidence and purpose. This discussion is particularly valuable for veterans dealing with challenges like PTSD and transitioning to civilian life.

01:00 - Introduction to Dr. Philip Agrios and the TNow Method 02:30 - The protective nature of self-sabotage 06:15 - Three key reasons people self-sabotage 14:00 - Shifting from self-protection to growth 23:45 - Applying the TNow Method in daily life 34:20 - Final thoughts and resources for change

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://transcendnow.biz/
Website: https://www.TheTNOWMethod.com
Website: https://TNOWTraining.com
Follow Dr. Philip Agrios on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drphilipagrios/
Follow Dr. Philip Agrios on Twitter/X: https://x.com/drphilipagrios
Follow Dr. Philip Agrios on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dragrios/

Transcript

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Strengthening Connections After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Caleb Walker, a veteran and entrepreneur, discusses his journey from military service to creating CollaboWave, a tool designed to revolutionize networking for veterans. Drawing on his military experience, including deployments to Afghanistan, Caleb highlights veterans' challenges in maintaining strong networks after service. CollaboWave addresses these hurdles by capturing and organizing essential networking information, making connections more actionable and efficient.

Caleb shares how his tool's voice-to-text capabilities streamline relationship-building for military personnel, first responders, and event attendees. He explains how CollaboWave fosters collaboration and simplifies knowledge transfer within and between organizations. Caleb's innovative tool offers practical solutions to complex problems, from aiding veterans to improving military handovers.

Listeners will gain insights into the importance of networking in professional and personal growth, strategies for making meaningful connections, and how technology can bridge gaps in communication. Caleb's passion for improving veterans' lives and strengthening their communities shines through in this engaging conversation.

05:00 - Caleb's military background and entrepreneurial journey 12:00 - How CollaboWave streamlines networking with voice-to-text 18:30 - Improving event connections and follow-ups 25:00 - Enhancing collaboration and knowledge transfer 32:00 - Applications for military, first responders, and organizations 40:00 - Tailoring CollaboWave for specific use cases

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Caleb Walker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-walker-79524b13b/

Transcript

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Crushing Cancer: Tools and Hope for Patients

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Kerry Forrestal, an emergency room physician and veteran, shares essential guidance for managing a cancer diagnosis. Drawing from years of experience in medicine and personal interactions with countless patients, Dr. Forrestal demystifies the process of navigating treatment options, understanding medical terminology, and advocating for oneself in the healthcare system. The episode also touches on how healthcare professionals can better connect with patients, the importance of mental health during treatment, and what every patient should know when facing a cancer diagnosis. This discussion offers practical, compassionate advice that empowers listeners to take control of their health journey and find hope in challenging times.

00:00:00 - Introduction and guest background

00:04:00 - Common challenges in navigating a cancer diagnosis

00:10:30 - Key questions to ask your doctor

00:15:45 - Importance of mental health in cancer treatment

00:22:20 - Advocacy tips for patients and caregivers

00:30:00 - Connecting with healthcare professionals effectively

00:38:15 - Final advice for those facing a diagnosis

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.crushingcancerthebook.com
Join the Cancer Treatment Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2049434048658263

Transcript

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Objective Zero Peer Support for Military Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Betsey Mercado, the co-founder of Objective Zero, shares how she leverages technology to support the military and veteran communities. Objective Zero aims to combat veteran suicide by providing accessible resources and peer support through a mobile app.

02:01 Objective Zero Foundation 06:26 Peer Support Network 17:55 Privacy and Anonymity 22:28 Success Stories 27:37 Reaching Out for Help 35:42 Getting Involved with Objective Zero

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.objectivezero.org
Follow Objective Zero on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/objectivezeroapp
Follow Objective Zero on Instagram: https://instagram.com/objectivezeroapp
Follow Objective Zero on Twitter/X: https://x.com/ObjectiveZeroFd
Follow Objective Zero on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/objective-zero/

Transcript

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Warrior PATHH for Post-Traumatic Growth

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Discover the Warrior PATHH Program: a non-clinical approach to aiding active duty service members, veterans, and first responders in overcoming trauma through post-traumatic growth. Stephanie Weaver, the Warrior PATHH Program Manager at Camp Southern Ground, dives deep into the program's origins, methodology, benefits, and the various life-changing initiatives at Camp Southern Ground.

00:39 What is Warrior PATHH? 01:19 Post-Traumatic Growth Concept 03:19 Origin of Warrior Path 19:59 Healing Beyond Therapy: How Warrior Path Works 12:45 Analogies and Real-life Applications 27:36 Camp Southern Ground's Broader Impact 32:06 National Availability of Warrior PATHH

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://campsouthernground.org/veteran-programs/warrior-pathh/
Follow Camp Southern Ground on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campsouthernground
Follow Camp Southern Ground on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campsouthernground/
Follow Camp Southern Ground on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/campsoutherngrd
Follow Stephanie Weaver on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/srweaver8142/

Transcript

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Warriors Set Free Faith-Based Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hear from Army veteran Eric Brew, Georgia Director of Warriors Set Free Ministry, as he shares his 25 years of Army experience and his unique approach to helping service members and first responders overcome life's challenges. Learn about the origin of Warriors Set Free, its mission, and the transformative power of faith in healing trauma.

00:34 Military Influencer Conference Highlights 01:32 Mission and Services of Warriors Set Free 10:11 Encouragement for Life's Crossroads 12:50 The Importance of Faith and Understanding in Healing 17:50 Practical Steps and Analogy for Simplifying Faith 25:43 Addressing Personal Traumas and Freedom Appointments 43:53 Interpersonal Connections and Overcoming Isolation 52:11 How to Get Involved with Warriors Set Free

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.warriorssetfree.org
Follow Eric Brew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_warring_shepherd
Follow Eric Brew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbrew

Transcript

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Wellness Techniques for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 08:32:00 +0000

Christopher Maher, a former Navy SEAL, shares his incredible journey of overcoming immense physical, mental, and emotional stress. He describes how his childhood experiences, intense military training, and subsequent struggles with alcohol led him to develop a unique system for complete healing and integration. Maher provides valuable insights for veterans and service members on transforming stress into personal growth and well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Christopher Maher

01:39 Journey from Navy SEAL to Healing Advocate

21:55 Turning Point and Personal Transformation

34:58 Techniques and Healing Processes

50:07 Applying the Techniques and Helping Others

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://truebodyintelligence.com/
Follow Christopher Maher on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truebodyintelligence
Follow Christopher Maher on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherleemaher/
Follow Christopher Maher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truebodyintelligence/
Follow Christopher Maher on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@christopherleemaher

Transcript

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Overcoming Challenges with Hip Hop

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Marine Corps veteran Ryan Doerrfeld, a devoted family man and hip-hop artist, shares how he navigated through his military service, personal challenges, and journey into the music world. Hear how Ryan channels his experiences and emotions into his music, overcoming struggles with stress, anxiety, and relocation. Get insights into his creative process, life lessons, and aspirations within the veteran community.

00:00 Introduction to Ryan Doerrfeld

01:25 Military Journey and Transition

01:58 Struggles and Overcoming Challenges

19:59 Discovering Music as Therapy

20:13 Creative Process and Musical Style

32:29 Sober Living and Personal Growth

01:16:26 Veteran Support and Positive Impact

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Overcoming Loss through Advocacy and Service

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Dive into an inspiring conversation with Aaron Hudgins, a retired first sergeant and surviving spouse of Staff Sergeant Jari J. Hudgins. Aaron's journey through 26 years of service in the Oklahoma Army National Guard, including multiple deployments and state activations, offers an insight into the sacrifices and responsibilities of military life. Discover how Aaron fulfilled his wife's dream posthumously, his pivotal role in advocacy through the Survivors Advisory Working Group, and his contributions to the Travis Manion Foundation. His candid recount of personal loss, resilience, and ongoing dedication to supporting military survivors is a testament to the enduring spirit of service members and their families.

00:00 Introduction to Aaron Hudgins 01:16 Military Service and Deployments 05:02 State Activations and Personal Reflections 20:31 The Love Lives Long Act and Survivor Advocacy 30:30 Travis Manion Foundation Involvement 38:33 Honoring His Wife's Dream 50:15 Advice for Service Members and Families 01:03:08 Call to Action and Closing

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Aaron Hudgins on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.hudgins.712
Follow Aaron Hudgins on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awh197844/
Follow Aaron Hudgins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hudgins-598a3a211/

Transcript

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Discovering Peace in The Horseman’s Tale

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Vietnam combat pilot, author, and horse whisperer, Tom Equels, shares his journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the therapeutic horse farms of Ocala, revealing how his experiences shaped his debut novel, 'The Horseman's Tale.'

Tom Equels' debut novel, The Horseman's Tale, was released in Fall 2024, and it's available everywhere books are sold. For more information, visit TheHorsemansTale.com or follow Tom on social media (links below).

00:00 Introduction 00:34 Tom Equels' Background 01:19 Experience in Vietnam 04:24 Choosing the Cobra Helicopter 06:36 Air Cavalry Troop 07:51 Distinguished Flying Cross 09:56 After Vietnam 15:59 Writing The Horseman's Tale 26:08 Therapeutic Value of Horses 27:07 Equestrian Therapy and PTSD 29:18 Horses' Empathetic Nature 43:29 Restoration through Love 01:00:53 Universal Truths and Forgiveness 01:07:14 Conclusion

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://TheHorsemansTale.com
Follow Tom Equels on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author.Tom.Equels/
Follow Tom Equels on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomequels
Follow Tom Equels on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-equels-833165331/

Transcript

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Transition Tips from VET S.O.S.

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Tune in for a conversation with Shawn Welsh, founder and co-host of the VET SOS podcast, as he shares how he supports the veteran community through military transitions and beyond. This episode is packed with invaluable resources and inspirational stories, from discussing practical tips on how veterans can navigate their return to civilian life to offering insights into his certified resiliency trainer background. Tune in to discover how to make the most of your military transition and find the right support systems to ensure a successful reintegration.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:58 Military Transition Focus 03:07 Personal Transition Challenges 06:47 Advice on Finding Resources 20:33 VET SOS Podcast and Tips 31:55 Delivering Valuable Information 40:33 Taking Care of Yourself First

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://vetsospodcast.com
Follow VET S.O.S. on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088481920773
Follow VET S.O.S. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetsospodcast/
Follow VET S.O.S. on Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/c
Follow VET S.O.S. on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetsospodcast
Subscribe to VET S.O.S.: https://rss.com/podcasts/vetsos
Follow VET S.O.S. on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vetsospodcast

Transcript

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Passion and Purpose in Hunting with Spartan Forge

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Dive into an inspiring conversation with Army veteran Bill Thompson, CEO and founder of Spartan Forge. Discover how his love for the outdoors and military experience led to the creation of a groundbreaking hunting app designed to enhance the hunting experience and serve as a therapeutic outlet for veterans.

00:00 Introduction to Guest

04:19 Founding Spartan Forge

12:34 Using the Spartan Forge App

23:41 LiDAR Technology and Its Benefits

38:12 Military Transition and Purpose

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://spartanforge.ai
Follow Spartan Forge on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpartanForgeTech
Follow Spartan Forge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spartan.forge/

Transcript

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Overcoming Fear with Faith

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for an enlightening conversation with retired Marine Corps Major Teddy Colgate, CEO and founder of First Coast Heroes Outreach. Dive deep into discussions on PTSD, moral injury, military transition, and the profound impact of faith over fear in finding purpose.

00:00 Introduction to Teddy Colgate 01:12 Teddy's Military Journey and Transition 01:47 Establishing First Coast Heroes Outreach 02:57 Trauma and Mental Health 17:37 Understanding Moral Injury 26:43 Personal Struggles and Recovery 41:41 Faith Over Fear

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://heroesoutreach.org
Follow Heroes Outreach on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroesoutreach/
Follow Heroes Outreach on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroes_outreach/

Transcript

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Healing Veterans with Pin-Ups For Vets

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Gina Elise, founder of Pin-Ups for Vets, takes us through her inspiring journey from the corporate world to dedicating her life to supporting veterans. She shares the origins of her organization, the unique ways it uplifts veteran morale, and the challenges, triumphs, and lasting impacts of her work. Gina also highlights the transformative effects on both the veterans and the ambassadors involved, offering hope and camaraderie through service. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, showcasing the significant difference one person can make.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 01:03 Origins of Pin-Ups for Vets 01:50 Growth and Evolution 05:12 Double Life 06:46 Challenges and Triumphs 08:08 Veteran to Veteran Connection 19:21 Impact Stories 28:24 Service After Service 33:43 Donations and Future Goals 41:26 Supporting Homeless Veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.pinupsforvets.com
Follow Pin-Ups for Vets on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinupsforvets
Follow Pin-Ups for Vets on Instagram: https://instagram.com/pinupsforvets
Follow Pin-Ups for Vets on Twitter/X: https://x.com/pinupsforvets
Follow Gina Elise on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginaelise/

Transcript

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Non-Traditional Mental Health Solutions

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore transformative mental health practices with Dr. Tracy Latz, an integrative psychiatrist and holistic practitioner, offering non-traditional, practical techniques to manage stress, PTSD, and mental health concerns without traditional therapy. Discover her unique insights into gut health, grounding, vibrational therapy, and the power of nature and animals in healing.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tracy Latz 01:26 Dr. Latz's Background and Journey 05:20 Non-Therapy Techniques for Mental Health 08:16 Vibrational Therapy and Emotional Freedom Techniques 09:55 The Healing Power of Nature and Animals 11:00 Using Earthing and Grounding for Inflammation and Relaxation 15:20 Binaural Beats and Ancient Herbal Remedies 19:22 Benefactor Meditation and Qi Gong Emotional Release

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://ShiftYourLife.com
Follow Tracy Latz on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shiftdoctors
Follow Tracy Latz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftyourlife
Follow Tracy Latz on Twitter/X: https://x.com/TracyLatz
Follow Tracy Latz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-latz-m-d-m-s-mh-d-b0499412

Transcript

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Supporting Veterans with Homefront Sitrep

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we talk with David Willis, co-host of the Homefront Sitrep podcast, about his experiences and insights into veteran support. We explore his military background, involvement in veteran charity work, and his journey in launching a podcast dedicated to veteran service organizations. Discover key challenges facing veterans today and learn how collaborative efforts and veteran-owned businesses can make a significant impact.

00:00 Introduction to Guest and Topic 01:32 David Willis - Military Background 03:21 Veteran Charity Work & Community Efforts 07:27 The Birth of the Homefront SITREP Podcast 23:22 Collaboration Among Veteran Service Organizations 42:52 How Veteran-Owned Businesses Can Help

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Homefront Sitrep on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HomeFrontSitrepPage
Follow Homefront Sitrep on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homefront_sitrep/
Follow Homefront Sitrep on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@homefrontsitrep

Transcript

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Transforming Lives with VetRise Academy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hear JP Perez's powerful story of overcoming post-military struggles, finding purpose, and reinventing himself. We discuss veteran identity, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the pursuit of personal growth through fitness and mental well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:22 JP Perez's Journey Post-Military

02:30 Finding Purpose After Service

04:33 From Law Enforcement to New Ventures

11:35 Building the VetRise Academy

33:18 The Importance of Mental and Physical Fitness

41:24 JP's Tips for Veterans

51:38 Wrap-Up and Closing Thoughts

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://bit.ly/VetRiseApp
Follow Juan "JP" Perez on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JPTheVeteranCoach
Follow Juan "JP" Perez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jptheveterancoach

Transcript

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Balancing Military and Olympic Dreams Through Faith

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

USMC Captain Riley Tejcek joins the show. Riley is a multifaceted individual who embodies dedication, perseverance, and faith. Listen to Riley's life as a Marine Corps Captain, her role as a bobsled pilot for Team USA, her time as Miss Military, and her work as an ambassador for Shields and Stripes. Hear how she balances her demanding roles and maintains a positive outlook despite the challenges she faces. Learn about her athletic background, the unique struggles she faces, and the unwavering faith that drives her success. Gain insights into her contributions to the military community and her inspiring impact on future generations.

00:00 Introduction 01:08 Riley's Background and Journey to the Marine Corps 03:00 Transition from Softball to Bobsledding 06:26 Balancing Marine Corps and Olympic Training 09:51 Navigating Nutritional Challenges 11:08 Marine Corps Support and Career Decisions 14:14 Miss Military Experience 25:28 Ambassador for Shields and Stripes 42:27 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Challenges 45:23 Conclusion and Parting Remarks

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Challenge Coin: Support Riley and Team USA Bobsledding https://www.svensmash.com/team-tejcek
Follow Riley Tejcek on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Riley.tejcek
Follow Riley Tejcek on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riley-tejcek-b264902b9/

Transcript

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Natural Healing Through Ayurveda

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hear how the ancient practice of Ayurveda can transform your life. Ananta Ripa Ajmera, a spiritual teacher, Ayurveda practitioner, author, and co-founder of The Ancient Way, explains its benefits for both physical and mental health. Learn about balancing your body's internal fire, the importance of seasonal routines, and practical tips for integrating Ayurveda into modern living.

00:00 Introduction to the Guest 03:11 Key Principles of Ayurveda 06:30 Ayurvedic Diet and Its Benefits 13:50 Balance and Moderation in Life 14:42 Mental Health Benefits 16:45 Simple Ayurveda Practices to Start 19:17 Incorporating Ayurveda and Yoga 38:11 Resources and Conclusion

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://anantaripaajmera.com and https://theancientway.co
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553443466596
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Instagram: https://instagram.com/ananta.one
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ananta_one
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anantaripaajmera

Transcript

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Becoming the Hero of Your Journey

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Spiritual teacher, award-winning author, and co-founder of the Ancient Way, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, shares how to become the hero of your own story through transformative insights grounded in Ayurveda, yoga, and Vedanta philosophy. Explore practical steps for embracing your inner power, tackling life's adversities, and achieving post-traumatic growth. Learn about the value of difficulties, trusting your intuition, and the power of asking for help on your spiritual journey. This episode offers a rich discussion for anyone seeking to unlock their true potential and live authentically.

00:00 Introduction to Ananta Ripa Ajmera 01:24 Defining the Hero's Journey 02:09 Facing Adversities 05:55 Overcoming Challenges 08:07 Power of Perspective and Practices 18:55 Acceptance and Transformation 25:09 Uncovering Solutions

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://anantaripaajmera.com
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553443466596
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Instagram: https://instagram.com/ananta.one
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ananta_one
Follow Ananta Ripa Ajmera on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anantaripaajmera

Transcript

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Navy Veteran and Stranger Things Actress Shares Her Cancer Journey

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hear from Jennifer Marshall, a Navy veteran turned actress known for her roles in Stranger Things and NCIS, among others. Learn about her military service, transition into acting, and relentless advocacy work, including her role as a Pinups for Vets ambassador and her brave battle with cancer. Tune in for advice on pursuing a career in entertainment and the importance of proactive healthcare for veterans.

00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Marshall 01:51 Military Service and Transition to Acting 13:55 Challenges and Stereotypes in Hollywood 17:19 Advice for Aspiring Actors 24:16 Pinups for Vets Ambassador 30:16 Battling Cancer: A Personal Story 37:02 Proactive Healthcare for Veterans 50:13 Closing Thoughts

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.jennifermarshall.com
Galleri Cancer Screening Blood Test: https://www.galleri.com/
- Galleri Patient/Provider Discussion Guide: https://assets.galleri.com/statics/Downloads/Galleri-Physician-Patient-Discussion-Guide-3.pdf
Follow Jennifer Marshall on Facebook: https://facebook.com/actressjennifermarshall
Follow Jennifer Marshall on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Jenn13Jenn13
Follow Jennifer Marshall on Twitter/X: https://x.com/Jenn13Jenn13
Follow Jennifer Marshall on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermarshall13/

Transcript

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Finding Purpose After Trauma

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Combat-wounded veteran Brian Fleming shares his journey from trauma to triumph, detailing how his experiences in Afghanistan shaped his mission to help others heal by sharing their stories.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 Meet Brian Fleming 01:28 Journey through Trauma 06:12 Deployment Challenges 15:35 Finding New Purpose 29:23 Lessons Learned

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.useyourstory.com
Follow Brian Fleming on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianflemingofficial
Follow Brian Fleming on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancfleming
Follow Brian Fleming on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancfleming1

Transcript

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Secrets to Impactful Public Speaking

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Laura Reid shares her journey from overcoming a severe stutter to becoming an international speaker, public speaking coach, and best-selling author. Her insights on storytelling and public speaking empower veterans and professionals to share their stories effectively.

00:00 Introduction to Drive On Podcast 00:23 Meet Laura Reed: Overcoming Public Speaking Fears 02:22 Laura's Journey: From Stutter to Speech Slayer 07:31 Empowering Veterans to Share Their Stories 14:57 Tips for Effective Public Speaking 17:29 Avoiding Death by PowerPoint 23:14 The Power of Storytelling in Public Speaking 23:35 Laura Reed's Book: Public Speaking Horror Show 41:13 Final Thoughts and Resources

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.thespeechslayer.com
Follow Laura Reid on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speechslayer/
Follow Laura Reid on Instagram: https://instagram.com/laura_inwonderland
Follow Laura Reid on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-reid-339456175/
Other links: https://bit.ly/thepublicspeakinghorrorshowbook

Transcript

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Unheard Tales of Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hear the story of Rodger Friedman, a son of a WWII veteran, who shines a light on his father's untold WWII stories and shares insights on preserving military legacies.

00:00 Introduction 01:14 Rodger Friedman's Background 05:46 Father's Military Service 07:42 Piecing Together History 14:02 Writing as a Passion 25:38 Advice for Veterans and Families 36:54 Supporting Veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://EOCritic.com

Transcript

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Secrets to College Admissions Success

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hear from Shaan Patel, a recognized college and test prep expert who achieved a perfect SAT score. From his humble beginnings in a budget motel to creating Prep Expert, Shaan shares invaluable insights on college admissions, the significance of standardized tests, and leveraging military education benefits. Shaan elaborates on the revolutionary changes to the SAT and effective strategies to improve test scores, emphasizing discipline and life skills crucial for success. This episode sheds light on practical tips for students and military personnel aiming to maximize their education and career opportunities.

00:00 Introduction to Shaan Patel 01:12 The Early Years and SAT Success 03:52 Founding Prep Expert 04:55 Relevance to Military Personnel 06:46 Improving Test Scores with Prep Expert 11:58 Changes in the SAT Format 18:45 Life Skills through Test Prep 30:53 The Pomodoro Technique and Productivity 33:58 Where to Find Prep Expert

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://prepexpert.com
Follow Prep Expert on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prepexpert/
Follow Prep Expert on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prep_expert/
Follow Prep Expert on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Prep_Expert
Follow Prep Expert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-expert/

Transcript

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The Realities of War and Personal Growth

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore the powerful narrative of a former Marine infantryman, Stew Blackwell, as he discusses his experiences in combat, his personal development journey, and the lasting impact of war. This episode provides a raw and candid view of military culture, leadership, and the emotional complexities surrounding 9/11 and the Global War on Terror.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://tactical16.com/stewart-st-blackwell/
Follow Stew Blackwell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stblackwell

Transcript

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Dianetics Therapy for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

A deep dive into the mental health crisis among veterans and an alternative therapeutic approach using Dianetics with Chris Owens, Executive Director of the Restored Valor Project.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:03 Chris Owens' Background and Journey into Dianetics

01:43 Explaining Dianetics

05:57 Dianetics Techniques and Their Unique Aspects

28:16 Addressing the Reactive Mind and Engrams

36:24 Physical and Emotional Pain in Dianetics

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://restoredvalor.org
Follow Christopher Owens on Twitter/X: https://x.com/happywarriorz
Other websites mentioned in the episode: https://cchr.org | https://HappyMind.Watch

Transcript

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Healing Unspoken Veteran Trauma

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Dive into the unspoken traumas faced by veterans with USMC veteran Garret Biss. This episode sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological struggles that many veterans endure and explores ways to address and manage these invisible wounds. As a staunch advocate for veteran mental health, Garret shares his insights and personal experiences, offering hope and practical advice to veterans and their families.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
https://valiantpath.vet
https://unspokentrauma.vet
https://thewarriorreset.com
https://garretbiss.com

Transcript

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Fishing for Recreational Therapy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join retired Air Force Colonel Neil Mullaney as he shares his journey from military service to becoming an advocate for veterans' mental health and wellness. Dive into his transformative experiences, leadership insights, and the incredible work being done by Heroes on the Water, an organization promoting therapeutic benefits through kayak fishing.

00:00 Introduction to Neil Mullaney

01:13 Background and Military Service

14:39 Challenges in Transitioning to Civilian Life

27:16 The Mission of Heroes on the Water

32:34 Two Program Structures

46:38 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.heroesonthewater.org

Transcript

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Empowering Men for Success

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features George Hayworth, an Army veteran and founder of Elite Sentinel Coaching, who shares his journey from military service to becoming a successful coach. George provides insights into the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. He discusses the importance of brotherhood, leadership, and authentic masculinity in personal development. Learn how his 12-week program helps men build confidence, improve relationships, and achieve exponential growth in various aspects of their lives.

00:00 Introduction: Meet George Hayworth 01:02 Military Service and Lessons Learned 05:53 Challenges in Military Transition 06:33 The Power of Brotherhood and Leadership 20:28 Importance of Network and Continuous Growth 42:26 The 12-Week Program Breakdown

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.theelitesentinel.com/
Follow The Elite Sentinel on Twitter/X: https://x.com/EliteSentinelx
Follow The Elite Sentinel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elite_sentinel_coaching
Follow George Hayworth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/george.hayworth/
Follow George Hayworth on Twitter/X: https://x.com/real_g_hayworth
Follow George Hayworth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-hayworth/

Transcript

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Healing Through Generational Trauma

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Listen to Becky Ellis discuss her memoir 'Little Avalanches,' and the often untold experiences of families with combat veterans. Discover how intergenerational trauma shapes lives and learn the importance of difficult yet healing conversations within families.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest - Becky Ellis 01:42 Surviving a Combat Veteran's Childhood 05:13 Intergenerational Trauma and Silencing 06:43 Breaking the Silence 10:24 Facing the Past - A Father's Awakening 13:59 Conversations with Children 21:08 How-to: Initiating Tough Conversations 28:22 The Healing Journey Begins 31:01 Transformation and the Veteran's Identity 34:39 Book Insight: Little Avalanches 45:29 Connecting for Future Generations

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://beckyellis.net/
Follow Becky Ellis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becky.ellis.9081
Follow Becky Ellis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckyellisauthor/
Follow Becky Ellis on Twitter/X: https://x.com/ellis_becky
Follow Becky Ellis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-ellis-4084149/
Follow Becky Ellis on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2ogXBlUpqC6oRiakSk_3ZA

Transcript

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Rewiring Your Brain for Resilience

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore the intricacies of resilience, stress management, and personal transformation with Dr. Stephen Sideroff, renowned psychologist and author of "The Nine Pillars of Resilience." In this episode, we look into practical strategies for mastering stress, fostering a growth mindset, and achieving emotional and mental balance. This episode is perfect for veterans, active-duty military personnel, and anyone seeking to navigate the pressures of daily life with strength and vitality.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 09:49 Military and Veteran-Specific Challenges 12:39 Cognitive Response and Reframing Stress 16:04 Desensitization and Reversing Conditioning 45:34 Building Effective Support Networks 55:01 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://DrStephenSideroff.com
Follow Dr. Stephen Sideroff on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephen.sideroff/
Follow Dr. Stephen Sideroff on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstephensideroff
Follow Dr. Stephen Sideroff on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/DrSideroff
Follow Dr. Stephen Sideroff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drstephensideroff
Follow Dr. Stephen Sideroff on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drstephensideroff

Transcript

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Finding Strength in Adversity

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Aaron Gray, a podcaster, mindset mentor, and personal development expert, shares his journey of overcoming personal tragedy and transforming trauma into a mission to help others. This episode looks into Aaron's life-altering experience of losing his child, coping with immense personal challenges, and emerging stronger through holistic wellness practices. Listeners gain practical insights into developing a resilient mindset, the importance of community, and actionable steps to begin their own paths to recovery and personal growth.

00:00 Introduction to Guest and Topics 01:11 Aaron's Personal Journey 08:17 Navigating Through Trauma 19:30 Building Positive Habits 41:49 Community and Support Networks 47:03 Promoting Positivity 56:49 Aaron's Podcast Information

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://i2uthrive.com/
Follow Aaron Gray on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i2uthrive/
Other links: https://urlgeni.us/youtube/channel/p5JwS

Transcript

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Service Dogs Saving Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join Bart Sherwood, founder of Train a Dog, Save a Warrior, as he discusses the power of service dogs for veterans. Learn how personalized training methods provide essential support to those with PTSD, anxiety, and other service-related conditions. Discover why directly involving veterans in training their dogs builds a unique, life-saving bond. Hear compelling insights on destigmatizing medical conditions, the chemical science behind dog alerts, and the emotional stories of lives saved. This episode discusses the significant impact a service dog can have on veterans' quality of life and how the program is breaking barriers to making service dogs accessible to all.

00:00 Introduction to Bart Sherwood and Train a Dog, Save a Warrior 03:11 The Unique Participant Trained Service Dog Program 03:36 Service Dog Training Methods and Benefits 15:38 Emotional and Chemical Impact of Service Dogs 38:54 How to Get Involved and Support the Program 55:35 Closing Remarks and Inspirational Stories

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://tadsaw.org
Follow TADSAW on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trainadogsaveawarrior
Follow TADSAW on Instagram: https://instagram.com/trainadogsaveawarrior
Follow TADSAW on Twitter/X: https://x.com/tadsawinc

Transcript

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Rally 4 Vets Healing Through Racing

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore how Robert Hess, an Army veteran, turned his post-military career into a mission for veteran support. After founding the Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network (DVEN) and Rally 4 Vets, Hess offers unique resources and support for veterans dealing with PTSD and other challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:21 Robert Hess's Background 01:38 The Drive On Motto 03:11 Founding of DVEN and Rally for Vets 05:01 ProstateTracker and Cancer Advocacy 09:56 Engagement with PTSD 10:10 Mission of DVEN 16:30 Introduction to Rally for Vets 19:31 Event Format and Goals 33:13 Upcoming Events and Vision 36:19 Connecting Veterans and Raising Awareness 48:02 Closing and How to Support

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://rally4vets.com
Follow Rally4Vets on Facebook: https://facebook.com/rally4vets
Follow Rally4Vets on Instagram: https://instagram.com/rally4vets
Follow Robert Hess on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertwarrenhess/

Transcript

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Veterans Getting Fit AF

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Dave Morrow, a dedicated Canadian veteran, fitness advocate, and host of the Hard to Kill Podcast, returns with invaluable insights on physical and mental well-being. Discover how Dave's personal journey through injury and recovery led to the creation of a supportive fitness and health community aimed at empowering veterans. Learn practical strategies for achieving consistency in fitness routines, nutrition, and overall health, tailored specifically for veterans struggling with injuries and lifestyle changes. Uncover the secrets behind turning simple daily habits into life-changing routines and get a sneak peek into Dave's upcoming book, which promises to be a field manual for veteran fitness. Dive into an engaging conversation filled with expert advice, personal anecdotes, and actionable tips that will guide and support you on your journey to becoming fitter, healthier, and harder to kill.

00:00 Introduction to Dave Morrow 02:57 The Nimble Warrior and Coaching Success 04:57 Founding of the Health and Fitness Community 12:10 Simple Fitness Principles 12:58 Addressing Veteran Health Issues 36:57 Metabolism and Weight Loss Myths 43:01 Upcoming Book and Expert Insights

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://davemorrow.net/
https://hardtokill.org
Book teaser: https://go.davemorrow.net/bookteaser785086
100% Free World's Easiest Workout Program: https://go.hardtokill.org/easy
Follow Dave Morrow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehardtokillpodcast/
SSG Ryan Pitts MoH Ceremony full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H5cetTrYqw

Transcript

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Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Army veteran Adam Peters found his purpose in helping other veterans through entrepreneurship. From humble beginnings in rural Indiana to founding the Strategic Veteran Podcast, Adam shares his transition story, the challenges he faced, and the systems he built to support his mission. This episode is packed with actionable insights on veteran entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and the mindset needed to succeed.

00:00 Introduction to Adam Peters and His Work

01:49 Adam's Background and Military Service

02:44 The Transition Hole and Early Ventures

03:57 Discovering Purpose through Ayahuasca Retreat

04:38 The Strategic Veteran Podcast Journey

11:19 Advice for Aspiring Veteran Entrepreneurs

27:03 Challenges and Sacrifices in Entrepreneurship

32:13 Building Systems and Processes for Success

43:31 The Stronghold Community Initiative

01:05:49 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thestrategicveteran.com
Follow Adam Peters on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pete.peters.39
Follow Adam Peters on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pete0585/
Follow The Strategic Veteran on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thestrategicvet
Follow The Strategic Veteran on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thestrategicveteran/

Transcript

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Bringing the Fallen Home

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join the conversation with retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Les Carroll, an award-winning military journalist, documentary filmmaker, and author who shares his riveting experiences and heartfelt stories. From serving at Dover Air Force Base and supporting the return of fallen service members to his deployments in Afghanistan, Carroll talks about the moments that shaped his career and inspired his creative works, including his novel, 'This Troubled Ground,' and the documentary 'Bringing the Fallen Home.' Dive deep into the emotional, logistical, and human aspects of military service and the poignant tales of those who serve and their families.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:16 Work at Dover Air Force Base 02:10 Military Career and Deployments 04:28 Inspirations and Experiences 20:55 Project Contributions: Bringing the Fallen Home 22:14 Legacy and Impactful Work 33:20 The Importance of Veteran Stories 56:11 Lighter Note 55:53 Closing Remarks

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://lescarroll.com
This Troubled Ground Book: https://www.amazon.com/This-Troubled-Ground-Carroll/dp/B0C9W1HJZ8
Library of Congress Veterans History Project: https://www.loc.gov/programs/veterans-history-project/about-this-program/

Transcript

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Turning Loss into Inspiration

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Don Culp, a recently retired Army veteran with a broad and diverse career, shares his inspiring journey, the challenges he faced, and his mission through the Braylon Aubrey Foundation, established in memory of his daughter. Explore the intersection of his military career and personal life, and the foundation's impact on children with impairing conditions.

00:00 Introduction to Don Culp 02:27 Don Culp's Military Journey 27:13 Foundation Activities 31:24 Building Special Needs Playgrounds 45:14 Get Involved

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thebraelynaubreyfoundation.org/
Follow The Braelyn Aubrey Foundation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braelynaubrey2009?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Follow The Braelyn Aubrey Foundation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-braelyn-aubrey-foundation-2a310915a

Transcript

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Raw Resilience and Overcoming Adversity

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

An inspirational journey of survival, resilience, and overcoming the toughest challenges life can throw at you. From a combat-wounded amputee to a motivational speaker and endurance athlete, Rich Ingram's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to persevere against all odds.

00:00 Introduction 00:25 Guest Introduction: Rich Ingram 08:50 Concept of Raw Resilience 09:51 Handling Setbacks 16:11 Finding Purpose and Moving Forward 30:14 Military Journey Continues 30:46 Rich's Return to the Military 37:14 Message to Fellow Veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.richingram.com/
Follow Rich Ingram on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RawResilience
Follow Rich Ingram on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richtingram/
Follow Rich Ingram on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richtingram/

Transcript

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Veteran Entrepreneur’s Real Estate Journey

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Jeremy Bourgeois, a Marine Corps veteran turned real estate investor, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship. Discover the challenges and rewards of the real estate market, insights on becoming a successful real estate investor, and advice for veterans looking to transition into this field. Learn about hassle-free home selling solutions and what to consider when selling your home quickly.

00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Bourgeois 01:12 Jeremy's Military Background and Transition 02:33 Entrepreneurship and Real Estate Insight 04:25 The Draw of Real Estate Investment 10:12 Navigating the Real Estate Market as a Newcomer 11:19 Scout Peak and Unique Selling Propositions 13:36 Process of Evaluating and Renovating Properties 22:23 Advising Veterans on Entering Real Estate 29:36 Quick Home Selling Solutions for Military Families 30:28 Finding Trustworthy Home Buying Companies

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://scout-peak.com
Follow Jeremy Bourgeois on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeremy.bourgeois.568/
Follow Jeremy Bourgeois on Instagram: https://instagram.com/utah_homebuyer/
Follow Jeremy Bourgeois on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremybourgeois/

Transcript

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Mastering Emotions with Mindfulness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Learn how yoga and meditation can benefit your mental health with Air Force veteran and yoga instructor David Romero. From personal journeys to expert advice, dive deep into the holistic practices that promote emotional and physical wellness.

00:00 Introduction 01:33 David Romero's Journey 05:24 Overcoming Challenges Post-Military 10:21 Situational Awareness in Yoga 14:33 Core Aspects of Yoga 28:23 Combining Yoga with Traditional Workouts 34:48 The Role of Sound Baths 48:44 Advice for Beginners 52:55 Closing Thoughts

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow David Romero on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theyogidr1
Follow David Romero on Instagram: https://instagram.com/theyogidr
Follow David Romero on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-romero-2675a06

Transcript

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Healing Wounds with Creativity

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore the journey of Geoffrey Bowton, an army veteran turned artist who used his passion for art to cope with the challenges of military life. From deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan to his unique artistic process that helps other veterans, Geoffrey sheds light on the therapeutic benefits of art. Discover how creativity can serve as a powerful tool for mental health and healing.

00:00 Introduction 00:21 Guest Introduction: Geoffrey Bowton 02:13 Geoffrey's Path to the Army 06:02 Discovering Art in the Military 14:58 Post-Service Challenges 48:33 Current Projects and Impact

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.geoffreybowton.com
Follow Geoffrey Bowton on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001570358103&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Follow Geoffrey Bowton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geoffreybowton/

Transcript

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Unleashing Your Full Potential

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Seth Gehle, a veteran and expert in leadership and personal development, shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to a successful post-military career. Seth offers advice on overcoming obstacles, making the transition to civilian life, and the importance of continuous self-improvement. He also discusses his new focus on victim advocacy and his ultra-marathon experiences, highlighting his drive to break free from mediocrity and achieve remarkable accomplishments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation and practical personal and professional growth tips.

00:00 Introduction to Seth Gehle 02:21 Seth's Background and Military Experience 04:35 Transitioning to Civilian Life 10:20 Leadership Insights 23:49 Personal Development and Mental Health 46:06 Challenges and Accomplishments 57:59 Wrap-Up and Contact Information

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://sethgehle.com
Follow Seth Gehle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobeyondtheshadows

Transcript

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Finding Your Happy Place

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Gary Sprouse, also known as the Less Stress Doc, joins the show to reveal insights on stress management, PTSD, and achieving a happier life. Sprouse discusses his innovative techniques and how they can guide you to your happy place, as outlined in his book "Highway to Your Happy Place: A Roadmap to Less Stress." This episode navigates through defining and overcoming worry, practical stress reduction methods, and the impact of traumatic experiences on mental health. Discover actionable steps and personalized advice to help you regain control, find fulfillment, and lead a less stressed life.

Listeners will walk away with a newfound understanding of stress management and practical tools to lead a happier, healthier life. Whether you're dealing with daily stress or more significant emotional traumas, Dr. Sprouse's expertise offers valuable guidance and hope.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.thelessstressdoc.com/
Follow Gary Sprouse on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lessstressdoc
Follow Gary Sprouse on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lessstressdoc/
Follow Gary Sprouse on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LessStressDoc
Follow Gary Sprouse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-less-stress-doc/

Transcript

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Mighty Oaks Foundation’s Faith-Based Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

An inspiring discussion with Jeremy Stalnecker, a former Marine Corps infantry officer and the executive director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, about his path from military service to helping veterans overcome PTSD and lead purposeful lives.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:10 Jeremy's Military Journey 11:46 Leadership as a Lifelong Skill 20:12 Peer-to-Peer Support 37:05 Hope and Responsibility 43:58 Final Thoughts on Moving Forward

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/

Transcript

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Discovering Your Extreme Dream

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features Charlynne Boddie, an inspiration as she assists others in overcoming extreme challenges. Learn about her unique approach to empowering individuals through her 'Xtreme Dream' Seminar. Discover the impact she has made on many lives and why her methods are a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation and tools for personal growth.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.charlynne.com
Follow Charlynne Boddie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CharlynneBoddie
Follow Charlynne Boddie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlynne-boddie-ba154014/
True Grid: https://www.amazon.com/True-Grid-Discovering-Custom-Designed-Blueprint/dp/1732878366/

Transcript

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The Battle Against Veteran Suicide

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Join Navy veteran and author D. Paul Fleming as he tackles the critical issue of veteran suicide. Discussing his own journey through trauma, PTSD, and transition out of service, Fleming delves into the complexities faced by veterans today. This heartfelt conversation covers the lasting impacts of military service, the struggle for purpose post-military, and how sharing personal stories can provide healing and understanding. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or someone looking to support the veteran community, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for tackling one of the most pressing issues among veterans today.

00:00 Introduction to D Paul Fleming 00:36 The Crisis of Veteran Suicide 01:45 The Effects of Service and Transitioning Out 02:08 Personal Struggles and Overcoming Trauma 06:26 Identity and Purpose Post-Military 09:37 Navigating Civilian Life as a Veteran 34:34 The Importance of Sharing Veteran Stories

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: www.dpaulfleming.com
Follow D Paul Fleming on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/D-Paul-Fleming/100088886720840/
Follow D Paul Fleming on Twitter: https://x.com/Vet_Wellness_
Get 'A Date With Suicide' book: https://www.amazon.com/Date-Suicide-D-Paul-Fleming-ebook/dp/B0D3WNLYXR

Transcript

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Finding Hope through Recovery

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Discover the journey of Bryan Wempen, an Army veteran, author, and mental health entrepreneur. From his battle with addiction to his path of recovery and helping fellow veterans, Bryan shares his story of resilience and hope.

00:00 Introduction to Bryan Wempen 02:26 Overcoming Addiction and Early Life Challenges 10:47 Military Service and Transition Challenges 29:31 Insight into Therapy and Recovery 35:00 Advice for Listeners Struggling with Addiction 52:31 Normal - A Misleading Concept 01:02:04 Navigating Difficult Changes

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: www.bryanwempen.com
Follow Bryan Wempen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/bryanwempen
Follow Bryan Wempen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwempen/

Transcript

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Overcoming Addiction and Mental Health

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore Nick Padlo's journey as an Army veteran and CEO of Sophros Recovery. He shares his personal battles with addiction and mental health and his mission to support veterans through holistic recovery programs.

00:00 Introduction to Nick Padlo and Sophros Recovery 01:10 Nick's Military Background and Post-service Challenges 03:30 Struggles with Mental Health and Addiction 04:32 The Founding of Sophros Recovery 05:45 Approaches and Methodologies in Wellness Programs 08:08 Tools and Strategies for Recovery 13:31 Integrating Physical and Mental Health in Recovery 15:35 Supporting Each Other in the Journey 12:22 Family and Friends as Part of the Healing Process 20:30 Facing Mental Health and Addiction Courageously 37:11 Finding the Right Treatment and Support

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Websites: https://www.sophrosrecovery.com/ https://www.sophrosrecoverytampa.com
Follow Sophros Recovery on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophrosrecovery/
Follow Sophros Recovery on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophrosrecovery/
Follow Sophros Recovery on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sophros-recovery/

Transcript

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AI Opportunities for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Explore the world of Artificial Intelligence with Philip Blackett, author of Future Proof: How to Adopt and Master Artificial Intelligence to Secure Your Job and Career, as he shares key insights into how AI can be leveraged to secure future job opportunities and career advancements. This episode delves into the mindset needed to view AI as a beneficial tool rather than a threat, providing practical strategies to integrate AI into various aspects of work and personal life.

00:00 Introduction to Philip Blackett and His Work 01:22 The Future Proof Framework 04:29 Embracing AI: Overcoming Fear 05:38 Practical Uses of AI 09:33 Strategies for AI Integration 09:38 Choosing the Right AI Tools 10:37 Flexible Learning and Teaching 17:56 Military Community and AI Adoption 30:50 Looking Ahead: AI in the Future 40:37 Value of Adaptation to AI

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.PhilipBlackett.com
Follow Philip Blackett on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilipBlackettFB
Follow Philip Blackett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipblackett
Follow Philip Blackett on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/PhilipBlackett
Follow Philip Blackett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipblackett
Philip Blackett on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/philipblackett

Transcript

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Engaging Kids While Deployed

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Insightful strategies and tools for maintaining family connections during deployments. Guest Nate Turner joins to discuss practical advice for parents in the military community.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Nate Turner 01:30 Strategies for Staying Connected with Children 02:28 Writing Letters and Using Technology 18:23 Balancing Roles and the Importance of a Support System 17:42 Building a Village and Community Support 26:17 Life Template and Backward Design Process 32:48 Teaching Core Values and Final Thoughts

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.nathanielaturner.com
Follow Nathaniel Turner on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaisingSupaman
Follow Nathaniel Turner on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nateaturner/
Follow Nathaniel Turner on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NateATurner
Follow Nathaniel Turner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanielaturner/

Transcript

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Finding Hope in Laughter

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Retired U.S. Naval officer Jack Daly discusses his journey from a distinguished military career to becoming an advocate for the therapeutic benefits of laughter. Discover how laughter can be a potent tool for managing stress, depression, and overall well-being, especially for veterans and military families. Jack shares his military experiences, the traumatic incident that ended his service, and how humor has played a pivotal role in his life and coping mechanisms. Learn about his book 'Laugh Out Loud' and the science-backed strategies for incorporating laughter into daily life.

00:00 Introduction to Guest 01:10 Military Background 05:18 Traumatic Incident 11:42 Living with Pain 34:45 The Healing Power of Laughter 50:21 Practical Tips for Incorporating Laughter

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Laugh Out Loud: https://www.amazon.com/LAUGH-OUT-LOUD-Personal-Prescription-ebook/dp/B0CRK2HK8V
Website: https://www.jackdalyauthor.com

Transcript

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Combating The Opioid Crisis with AI

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

USAF Veteran Michael Vasquez joins the show to discuss groundbreaking healthcare technology innovations aimed at addressing the opioid crisis. With a rich background that includes building the first AI-integrated electronic medical records system on NASDAQ and founding one of the largest opioid treatment programs in the U.S., Michael explains how AI is being utilized to combat addiction and the critical role of prevention.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 02:03 AI in Electronic Medical Records 04:57 Opioid Treatment and Prevention 10:23 Personal Story and Motivation 13:47 Indicators of Opioid Dependency 26:22 Holistic Approach: Sleep, Diet, and Exercise 19:37 Impact on Employers and Health Plans 36:37 Broader Implications for Veterans and the VA 40:34 Closing Remarks and Recommendations

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Websites: https://www.opiodcm.com
https://www.michael-vasquez.com
Follow Michael Vasquez on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/mikevasquezopcm

Transcript

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Goal Setting and Achieving Success with the Oxcart Technique

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features Terry L. Fossum, a veteran with a diverse and illustrious background, including serving as the executive officer for a group of Nuclear B-52 bombers during the Cold War and winning the survival reality show, 'Kicking and Screaming' on Fox. Terry is also a celebrated author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book, 'The Oxcart Technique'. This revolutionary goal-setting system helps individuals achieve their goals by utilizing both negative and positive motivators to drive action, forming a powerful framework applicable to various aspects of life.

00:00 Introduction to Terry L. Fossum 01:46 Overview of The Oxcart Technique 02:01 Debunking Goal-Setting Myths 04:20 Understanding Prospect Theory 07:48 Application of The Oxcart Technique 22:08 Detailed Steps of The Oxcart Technique 41:12 Kicking and Screaming Experience 44:50 Conclusion and Resources 46:48 Humor Segment: Service Connected?

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
https://www.TerryLFossum.com
https://www.TheGoalSecret.com

Transcript

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Codependency Solutions and Recovery Tips

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Michaud, a seasoned psychologist with over 30 years of experience, discusses the intricate issues of addiction, codependency, and mental health, particularly within the veteran community. The discussion provides valuable insights into how these issues impact veterans and their families and offers strategies for developing healthier relationships and coping mechanisms.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sarah Michaud 01:54 Understanding Codependency 08:23 Challenges in Managing Addiction and Mental Health 09:49 The Complexity of PTSD and Addiction 08:27 Navigating the Healthcare System 15:11 Impact of Emotional Pain and Grief 16:20 Consequences of Not Addressing Root Causes 15:06 Grief and Rage 34:04 Breaking the Cycle of Codependency 46:26 Dr. Michaud's Book and Resources 47:40 Closing Remarks and Humor

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.drsarahmichaud.com
Co-Crazy: One Psychologist's Recovery from Codependency and Addiction book: https://www.amazon.com/Co-Crazy-Psychologists-Recovery-Codependency-Addiction/dp/1736720430/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1

Transcript

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Overcoming Emotional Triggers

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Jennie Potter, author of 'Self Sabotage No More' and creator of the ALARM Method, discusses techniques to manage emotional triggers. The discussion focuses on practical steps veterans and others can use to tackle emotions like anger, fear, and stress, which often lead to self-sabotaging behaviors.

00:00 Introduction to Jennie Potter 01:05 Understanding the ALARM Method 01:37 Practical Applications 28:09 Managing Intense Emotions 34:15 Challenges and Overcoming Them

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://jenniepotter.com/
Follow Jennie Potter on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniepotterofficial/
Follow Jennie Potter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennie_potter/

Transcript

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Practical Strategies for Resolving Disputes

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Mike Hassell, author of Deep Tradeoffs, delves into strategies for humanizing opponents and managing subconscious reflexes in polarized societies. The discussion covers approaches to handling interpersonal and societal conflicts, the importance of striving versus peace, the complexities of honesty and self-deception, and the pursuit of happiness and meaning. Mike provides insights on balancing conflicting values, personal reflections on shared experiences, and practical techniques for diffusing tension.

00:00 Introduction to Mike Hassell and Deep Tradeoffs 01:39 Humanizing Opponents and Managing Conflict 08:06 Understanding Rivalrous Values 36:58 Striving vs. Peace 34:27 Interpersonal Relationships and Shared Experiences 36:36 Pursuing Happiness and Meaning 52:25 Conclusion and Practical Techniques

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://deeptradeoffs.com
Deep Tradeoffs on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Tradeoffs-Restoring-Balance-Polarized/dp/196077400X

Transcript

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Finding Your Life’s Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Author and speaker Corey Poirier discusses the importance of finding purpose and passion to address mental health issues. Corey shares his personal journey through mental health struggles, the moment that changed his life, and how he now helps others discover their own passions and purposes. With insights applicable to veterans, service members, and the broader community, Corey's practical advice and inspirational story make this an episode you won't want to miss. 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Introducing Corey Poirier 01:06 Corey's Background and Journey 01:25 Mental Health Struggles and Overcoming Them 02:43 The Impact of Passion on Mental Health 07:07 Purpose and Passion in the Military Community 09:49 Helping Others Find Their Purpose 13:05 Finding Passion and Purpose 12:19 10,000 Hours to Mastery 28:30 Putting in the Work 09:47 Addressing Negativity 35:21 Steps to Finding Passion 44:20 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.coreypoiriermedia.com
Follow Corey Poirier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corey.poirier.1
Follow Corey Poirier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatspeakerguy/
Follow Corey Poirier on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thatspeakerguy
Follow Corey Poirier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/speakercoreypoirier/

Transcript

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The Hidden Impacts of PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Ruth Clare, the author of the memoir 'Enemy' and a TEDx speaker, discusses the generational impacts of PTSD and shares valuable tools for recovery. Ruth's memoir explores her life as the child of a Vietnam veteran and the complex repercussions of war trauma on families. The conversation talks about coping strategies, parental challenges, and the importance of active involvement in healing. From identifying the fight-flight-freeze response to sharing actionable recovery tips, this episode is packed with insights beneficial for veterans, their families, and anyone impacted by PTSD.

00:00 Introduction to Ruth Clare 01:29 Living with a Parent with PTSD 16:21 Coping Strategies and Healing from Trauma 24:28 Nervous System and Trauma Response 42:45 Experiences and Reflections

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://ruthclare.com/
Enemy Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5JYBG9K/
Follow Ruth Clare on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruthclareauthor/
Follow Ruth Clare on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthclareauthor/
Follow Ruth Clare on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthclareauthor/
Follow Ruth Clare on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ruthclareauthor
Follow Ruth Clare on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ruthclareauthor
Ruth Clare's TEDx talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orOJb8MDaGk

Transcript

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Celebrating the 4th on the 400th Episode

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this special episode marking a significant milestone, the focus shifts from traditional interviews to an in-depth exploration of the essence of Independence Day. The episode dives into the historical context of the American Revolution, key figures and battles that shaped the nation's quest for freedom, and the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence. It offers listeners a monologue that transcends a simple historical recounting, aiming to inspire patriotism and a deep appreciation for the principles of bravery, sacrifice, and freedom. This commemorative episode is a tribute to the spirit of Independence Day, delving into the values that make the United States a beacon of freedom worldwide.

00:00 Historical Context of Independence Day 03:13 Significance of the Declaration of Independence 20:12 Foundational Figures of the Revolution 23:40 Key Battles and Events Leading to Independence 46:47 Formation of a New Nation 59:18 The Evolving American Identity 01:09:31 Significance and Celebration of Independence Day

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

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Transforming Trials into Triumphs

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest is Karis Meier, a military wife and an inspiring author of 'Suffering Redeemed: Finding Strength to Endure, Purpose in Pain and Hope for Tomorrow'. Karis shares her journey of dealing with chronic illness and how her experiences have shaped her perspective on suffering, resilience, and the importance of community support. With insights from her life as a military spouse and her deep-rooted faith, Karis discusses the practical tools and wisdom she has gathered while navigating through life's hardships. This episode explores themes of personal transformation, the therapeutic power of writing, and how suffering can bring unexpected gifts. Listeners will find encouragement and strategies for facing their own challenges, learning to process their experiences, and discovering the strength to endure through adversity.

00:00 Guest Introduction 01:19 Journey Through Adversity 08:48 Insights from 'Suffering Redeemed' 14:06 The Therapeutic Power of Writing 29:01 Holistic View on Overcoming Challenges 41:49 Navigating Life's Transitions

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://karismeier.com
Suffering Redeemed Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Suffering-Redeemed-Finding-strength-tomorrow-ebook/dp/B0BK5Q3LK2/
Follow Karis Meier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086940122365
Follow Karis Meier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarismeier/

Transcript

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Irreverent Warriors – Silkies, Service, and Camaraderie

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 08:10:00 +0000

This episode features Perla Tapia, who serves in the US Air Force and as the Lead Coordinator for Irreverent Warriors' hikes in Phoenix. This episode shows the impact of camaraderie in supporting veterans and preventing suicide, highlighted by the organization's "silkies hikes." Listeners will learn about the significance of community and connection in addressing veteran mental health and how Irreverent Warriors' events create meaningful, support-filled experiences for veterans. This episode bridges military service, voluntary commitment, and the effects of community support in tackling prevalent issues within the veteran community.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://irreverentwarriors.com/
Join Irreverent Warriors Phoenix on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/330029989115645/
Follow Irreverent Warriors Phoenix on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iw.phoenix
Follow Irreverent Warriors on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irreverentwarriors
Follow Irreverent Warriors on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/iwnational
Follow Irreverent Warriors on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irreverentwarriors/
Follow Irreverent Warriors on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iwnational
Follow Irreverent Warriors on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/80442970
Follow Irreverent Warriors on Discord: https://discord.gg/WWCBkCkdaa

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Navigating VA Disability Benefits and Military Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Joe Fortuno, a veteran deeply dedicated to assisting fellow veterans in securing their deserving VA disability benefits, shares his insights and experiences. Looking into the complexities of mental health challenges, the transition from military to civilian life, and the intricacies of navigating VA health care and disability benefits, Joe offers advice and perspectives drawn from both personal and professional expertise. This episode is a must-listen for veterans seeking guidance on VA benefits, individuals facing transition struggles, and anyone interested in the support systems within the veteran community. Listen in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a deep dive into the resources available to veterans. 00:00 Guest Introduction: Joe Fortuno 02:08 Veterans' Transition Challenges 09:52 Navigating Mental Health and Support Systems 13:47 Understanding VA Disability Benefits 31:05 Advice for Veterans Seeking Benefits

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://jandils.com
Follow Joe Fortuno on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joe.ayo.9
Follow Joe Fortuno on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calicojoe_1
Follow Joe Fortuno on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fortuno-165570212

Transcript

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Military Suicide Loss and the Path to Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Jessica Timmerman shares her personal journey of loss and resilience following the passing of her brother, a dedicated service member. Jessica opens up about the challenges her brother faced, including combat experiences in Iraq, Afghanistan, and South Africa, and his struggles with mental health leading up to his passing on Mother's Day 2022. Through her story, Jessica sheds light on the importance of support systems for military suicide survivor families, discussing resources and organizations that have been instrumental in her healing process. She also touches on the broader issue of mental health within the military community, emphasizing the need for accessible support and the power of personal connections in overcoming grief and isolation. Her message is one of hope, urging those who are struggling or know someone who is to seek out and offer support, ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey of loss alone. 00:00 Introduction to Jessica Timmerman's Story 01:20 Discussing Military Service and Personal Struggles 05:51 The Importance of Support Systems and Resources 07:12 Finding Hope and Strength Through Connection 09:50 Jessica's Current Endeavors to Support Others 12:30 Ideas for Improving Support for Military Families

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.thefinalsalutellc.com
Follow The Final Salute on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefinalsalute
Follow The Final Salute on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinalsalutellc
Follow Jessica Timmerman on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jessica-timmerman-97059025a

Transcript

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Serving Those Who Serve Through Care Packages

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Megan Richards, an army combat veteran and the executive director of Packages from Home, joins us to discuss the substantial impact of care packages on military members stationed abroad and veterans in need. We talk about Megan's personal journey from joining the army unexpectedly, facing the complexities of military life, and how her experiences shaped her role in providing morale-boosting support to the military community. The conversation highlights the evolution of Packages from Home, from its grassroots beginnings to its current outreach, fulfilling 50 requests daily from military members across 176 countries and supporting canines in service. Further, it explores volunteer opportunities with the organization, emphasizing its initiative beyond simple care packages to include support groups and events for veterans, showcasing the breadth of their commitment to the entire military community. This episode is a compelling listen for those interested in military advocacy, volunteerism, and the power of community in supporting our service members and veterans. 00:00 Empowering Through Care Packages 02:17 A Personal Journey in Service 07:31 Supporting the Military and Beyond 23:23 The Growth of Packages from Home

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.packagesfromhome.org
Follow Packages From Home on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PkgsFromHome/
Follow Packages From Home on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/packagesfromhome/
Follow Packages From Home on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/packages-from-home/
Link to Donate: https://secure.packagesfromhome.org/np/clients/packagesfromhome/donation.jsp?forwardedFromSecureDomain=1&campaign=115&&test=true
Link To Crown Royal PBP: https://pack.crownroyal.com

Transcript

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MANA House’s Fight Against Veteran Homelessness

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Rachel Masch-Perez, the Community Engagement Director at MANA House, dives deep into the critical issue of veteran homelessness. We explore the multifaceted challenges veterans face, including substance abuse, mental health issues, and the hurdles of reintegration into civilian life, contributing to homelessness. Rachel provides a behind-the-scenes look at how MANA House, a peer-run organization in Phoenix, Arizona, offers personalized resources, support, and advocacy to help homeless and formerly homeless veterans. This episode shines a light on essential assistance programs, the impact of community and belonging, and the broader social factors influencing veteran homelessness. Listeners will gain an understanding of the specialized support provided to veterans, the specific demographics at higher risk, and success stories from the community, emphasizing the importance of targeted assistance and the power of collaboration in addressing veteran homelessness.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Websites: https://www.manahouseaz.org/
https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/all-locations/veteran-services
https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/blog-categories/veterans
https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/
Follow Rachel Masch-Perez on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachel.masch.54
Follow Rachel Masch-Perez on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-masch-9ab402a3/

Transcript

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Maximizing Military Benefits

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features financial educator Kate Horrell, specializing in empowering military and veteran families to optimize their pay and benefits. Discussions span the differences in managing finances for active vs. veteran status, leveraging educational benefits like the Post 9/11 GI Bill, navigating the transition from military to civilian life, and the availability of resources to ease this significant change. Kate shares great insights on preparing financially for the transition, making the most of available benefits, and the importance of planning for life post-service. This episode is a must-listen for military members, veterans, and their families seeking to better navigate financial planning and use of benefits pre and post-military life.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://katehorrell.com
Follow Kate Horrell on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateHorrellFinanceExpert/
Follow Kate Horrell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realkatehorrell/
Follow Kate Horrell on Twitter: https://twitter.com/realKateHorrell
Follow Kate Horrell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katehorrell/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Service and Compassion for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features Kapri Willis, who shares her compelling journey from a challenging youth to serving as a Navy Corpsman and later founding Take Care of Our Vets. Willis opens up about the motivations behind her military service, her diverse experiences within the Navy, and how these shaped her commitment to aiding homeless veterans and their families. She provides insights into the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life and discusses her efforts to improve the lives of homeless veterans through health and beauty initiatives. Additionally, the episode delves into broader issues surrounding homelessness, highlighting the importance of humanity and understanding in addressing this complex problem. 00:00 Introducing Kapri Willis 00:57 Journey to Service 08:50 Challenges of Transition 12:27 Addressing Veteran Homelessness 15:18 Humanity and Compassion 34:46 Is it Service Connected?: Marine vs Razor Wire

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Kapri Willis on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamkapriw
Follow Kapri Willis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkapriw
Follow Kapri Willis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/kapriwillis

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Veteran’s Journey to Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look into the inspiring journey of Mark Perna, a former Marine Corps infantryman with deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. Mark shares his experiences from the battlefield to the trials of reintegration into civilian life, touching on themes of resilience, healing, and the power of self-discovery through challenging times. His story unfolds through discussions on overcoming the aftermath of combat, exploring non-traditional paths to healing, such as yoga and meditation, and the role of community and support systems in facilitating growth and recovery. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of the veteran experience, highlighting the importance of facing fears, embracing change, and finding solace in connection and purpose.

(00:00) Welcome to Drive On (00:25) Introducing Mark Perna: A Marine's Story of Resilience (00:58) Parenting After War: Sharing Stories with the Next Generation (03:22) Marine Boot Camp: Preparing for War (08:32) Deployment to Afghanistan: The Reality on the Ground (13:19) Combat Experiences: The Intensity of Firefights (48:39) Returning Home: The Challenge of Reintegration (49:22) The Harsh Realities of Combat and Its Aftermath (51:18) Struggling with Trauma and Seeking Solace in Risky Behaviors (01:00:57) The Journey Towards Healing: From Medication to Meditation (01:11:56) Finding Peace Through Yoga and Embracing New Beginnings (01:24:05) Skydiving: A Leap Towards Self-Discovery and Love (01:32:55) Reflections on Service, Sacrifice, and the Path to Healing (01:39:33) Is It Service Connected?: The Misadventures of a Paratrooper

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Dogs For Our Brave

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 30 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode dives deep into veterans' support through service dogs, highlighting the support available for those who served. Our guest, Bryan Pieschel, director of veteran services at Dogs for Our Brave, shares his enlightening journey from an army medic in Baghdad to supporting wounded veterans. The conversation covers the vital role of service dogs in offering hope, independence, and support to veterans dealing with physical and mental challenges, diving into the specifics of how these dogs are trained and matched with veterans, the financial aspects, and the impact they have on veterans' lives. This episode not only sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans transitioning back to civilian life but also emphasizes the importance of support systems and resources available, making it a must-listen for anyone connected to the military community or interested in the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://dfob.org
Follow Dogs For Our Brave on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DogsForOurBrave/
Follow Dogs For Our Brave on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogsforourbrave/
Follow Dogs For Our Brave on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DFOB_HQ
Follow Bryan Pieschel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-pieschel-aa206b28a/
Follow Dogs For Our Brave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dogs-for-our-brave/

Transcript

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Art, Service, and Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Fred Johnson, a former Marine turned musical performer renowned for his work in healing veterans through artistic expression. Johnson shares his journey from the military to the arts, highlighting the impact of his service and artistic endeavors and how these experiences shaped his commitment to helping veterans transition and heal. The discussion covers Johnson's unique perspective on the power of creativity in bridging the gap between military and civilian communities, the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression, and initiatives aimed at veterans' rehabilitation. This heartfelt dialogue offers insights into the intersection of service, art, and the ongoing efforts to support the well-being of veterans and their families.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: StrazCenter.org
Follow Straz Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrazCenter
Follow Straz Center on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Strazcenter

Transcript

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Navigating Life as a Caregiver

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 23 May 2024 08:02:00 +0000

This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Elisa Glass, a dedicated caregiver to her husband, a 100% disabled veteran, and an advocate for caregivers and individuals with rare autoimmune diseases. Elisa shares her challenging journey of resilience, strength, and dedication while navigating the unique hurdles of caregiving, managing her own rare autoimmune disease, and advocating for resources and support. The discussion covers the underestimated stress of caregiving, the importance of self-identification as a caregiver, valuable tips on self-care, and how to access helpful resources and programs, particularly through the VA. Elisa's story highlights the power of a positive mindset, the necessity of community support, and offers inspiration and practical advice for caregivers facing similar situations.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Elisa Glass on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-glass/
Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/
Elizabeth Dole Foundation: https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Triumph Over Trials

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Uncle Jimmy (James Kuczykowski), a Roman Catholic Air Force veteran, shares his inspiring and impactful journey from rock bottom to recovery. Discussing his life's challenges, including overcoming addiction and surviving a stroke, Uncle Jimmy offers a raw and honest look into the trials he faced and how he overcame them. Through stories of his military career, the camaraderie amongst veterans, and his deep faith, listeners are invited to explore themes of resilience, community, and spiritual growth. Whether discussing his time in the Air Force, his struggles with addiction, or his path to writing a book, Uncle Jimmy's story is one of hope and transformation, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or understanding of the power of redemption. 00:00 Introduction to Uncle Jimmy 01:10 Military Service and Reflections 08:50 Facing Life Challenges 14:17 Overcoming Addiction 22:21 Discovering Faith and Recovery 36:42 Embracing Fellowship and Humor

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.thywillbedonebyjameskuczykowski.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Journey Through Military Service and Combatting Eating Disorders

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 16 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode dives into the captivating journey of Leah Stiles, a retired senior chief mass communication specialist from the US Navy and the founder/CEO of a nonprofit aimed at addressing eating disorders within the military community. Covering topics from the unique challenges and responsibilities of military communication specialists to the often-overlooked issue of eating disorders among service members, this episode sheds light on both Leah's personal story of determination and broader issues within the military. With the rising awareness of mental health and its impacts on operational readiness, Leah's insights into tackling eating disorders are not only provocative but essential. Her founding of a nonprofit to directly address these challenges provides hope and actionable solutions for service members facing similar struggles. Whether you're interested in military life's intricacies or the ongoing battle against eating disorders, Leah's story is both educational and inspiring.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.sea-waves.org
Follow Sea Waves on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeaWavesInc
Follow Sea Waves on Instagram: https://instagram.com/seawavesinc
Follow Leah Stiles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-stiles/

Transcript

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Navigating VA Disability Claims

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Monica Sanford, a Doctor of Nursing Practice and VA Disability Claims Examiner, offers insights into the VA disability claims process. Bringing over two decades of experience in acute care and a deep connection to the military community, Sanford discusses a wide range of topics, from eligibility for VA disability benefits to detailed advice for veterans preparing for their VA disability exams. This episode is essential for veterans and their families seeking to understand the complexities of the VA disability claims process, eligibility criteria, and how to effectively prepare for and navigate their exams. More than just a guide, it's a must-listen for anyone in the military community looking to gain knowledge about their rights and resources available through the VA.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Monica Sanford on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MonicaSanfordVP
Follow Monica Sanford on Twitter: https://twitter.com/@ACNPChica
Follow Monica Sanford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicasanford
Podcast: The Monica Sanford Show on iHeartRadio and Spotify https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/monica-sanford

Transcript

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The Journey of Resilience and Growth

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features Jeremy Hancock, a combat veteran who shares his deeply personal journey from struggling with PTSD and suicidal ideation to finding hope, healing, and post-traumatic growth. Jeremy's candid storytelling brings light to the numerous challenges he faced upon his return from service, including his battles with PTSD, vulnerability, survivor's remorse, and moral injury. A key part of Jeremy's recovery story involves exploring unconventional treatments, such as ketamine therapy, leading to significant personal growth and change. The conversation also delves into the importance of mental health awareness, seeking help, and the transformative power of reframing one's experiences from traumatic to growth-oriented. This episode is an inspiring call to action for veterans and others dealing with similar struggles, emphasizing the importance of talking, seeking help, and the potential for change and growth after trauma.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Operation Homefront: Strength, Stability, and Secure Futures

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This episode features Robert Thomas, a distinguished Air Force veteran with nearly 31 years of service and a key member of Operation Homefront's executive team. The conversation dives deep into Thomas's extensive military career, from flying C 141s and C 5s to his role in supporting the Operation Homefront mission. Listeners will learn about the impactful work being done to build strong, stable, and secure military families, ensuring they do not just barely get by, but thrive. Through stories of critical assistance, housing programs, and special initiatives like the Back to School Brigade, the episode paints a picture of the difference Operation Homefront is making in the lives of military families across the nation.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://operationHomefront.org
Follow Operation Homefront on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OperationHomefront/
Follow Operation Homefront on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/operationhomefront/
Follow Operation Homefront on Instagram: https://instagram.com/OperationHomefront
Follow Operation Homefront on Twitter/ X: https://twitter.com/Op_Homefront

Transcript

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Crafting Your Own Happiness

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 02 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Bona Normandeau, host of the Happier You podcast and a happiness coach, shares her inspirational journey from a military career to discovering her own happiness. Bona discusses her mission-to empower individuals to find their own path to joy and resilience and confront their unique journeys with a greater sense of strength. She shares her experiences of coming to grips with life after military service, addressing feelings of being lost and her initial struggle to find her own joy and purpose. Bona talks about the significance of finding activities that 'make your soul sing' and encourages listeners to empower themselves and take control of their happiness by trying new things and fostering connections with like-minded individuals. As the host of the Happier You podcast, she shares insights into creating happiness challenges, appreciating the little things in life, and the importance of finding a support system to share and grow with.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://thehappieryou.net/
Join The Happier You group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehappieryou

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Mental Health, Military Experiences, and Film ‘Tribal’

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Mark Kershaw dives deep into discussions around veteran mental health, military experiences, and his documentary 'Tribal'. A passionate advocate for veterans' mental health and a creator of the documentary 'Tribal', Mark has a unique perspective on the importance of destigmatizing mental health struggles, addressing the rise of suicide rates among service members and fostering a sense of community among veterans. The episode provides eye-opening insights for both veterans and civilians and encourages open conversations about often-taboo topics like trauma and societal integration after service. It is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of veterans, the obstacles they face in society, and the steps we can take to support them appropriately. 00:00 Introduction to Mark Kershaw 07:31 Discussion on documentary 'Tribal' 37:54 Integrating back into society post-service 46:20 Mental health in the military and the importance of speaking up

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Tribal on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tribaldocumentary
Follow Tribal on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tribal_documentary
Follow Mark Kershaw on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kershaw-99997392/
Tribal Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZo1NvrEhQY&t=32s
Watch Tribal on Prime: https://bit.ly/3tnta3Q
Watch Tribal on AppleTV: https://bit.ly/3tllOOp
Watch Tribal on Google Play: https://bit.ly/3Rudynl
Watch Tribal on Vudu: https://bit.ly/3GQYQBY
Watch Tribal on Vimeo: https://bit.ly/48nKFQD
Tribal is also available on the following providers in their VOD offerings: Dish, DirecTV, Comcast, Spectrum, Charter, Cox, Verizon Fios, Frontier, Suddenlink, Mediacom, Century Link, Google Fiber, + smaller affiliates, and available for rental in libraries with the hoopla service.

Transcript

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Resilience, Perseverance, and Inner Strength

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest is Josh Thompson, a former Army Air Defense Artillery Captain. Thompson shares his powerful testament to the transformative power of inner strength. He discusses his inspiring journey, from battling toxic work environments and chronic health issues to achieving healing and personal breakthroughs. Despite the grueling adversities he's faced, Josh turned his life around, offering inspiration and hope for listeners facing similar challenges. His impactful experiences make for an enlightening conversation on the necessity of self-advocacy, the significance of maintaining one's mental and physical health, the value of faith, learning to cope with anxiety, and the importance of a positive mindset. This episode explores various topics, including leveraging adversities to grow personally and professionally, making it a must-listen for vets, self-improvement enthusiasts, and anyone looking to break through life's obstacles.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast 00:25 Guest Introduction: Josh Thompson 00:40 Josh's Journey: Overcoming Adversity 01:26 Josh's Military Experience: Struggles and Impact 03:15 The Deployment: Challenges and Mental Health Impact 05:16 The Aftermath: Dealing with Toxic Leadership 06:43 Josh's Health Issues: The Struggle for Diagnosis 17:58 The Importance of Self-Advocacy in Healthcare 22:04 Coping Mechanisms: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness 27:45 The Power of Positive Mindset and Transformation 37:13 The Power of Helping Others 38:45 The Importance of Self-Care in Survival Mode 41:02 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Struggles 43:16 The Impact of Personal Struggles on Faith 49:14 The Importance of Prioritizing Self in Helping Others 01:00:09 Closing Thoughts and Humorous Segment 01:00:51 The Power of Perseverance in Overcoming Trials

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Joshua Thompson on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/most.blest.is.he
Follow Joshua Thompson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/most_blest_is_he/
Follow Joshua Thompson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-thompson-veteran/

Transcript

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Combatting PTSD and Building Resilience

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest, Thyron Heyward, a Navy veteran and mental health advocate, openly discusses his powerful journey of resilience and transformation. Suffering from PTSD after his services in Desert Storm, Thyron embarked on an arduous journey of healing and self-discovery. Today, he holds a master's degree in clinical counseling psychology, and runs a coaching and mentoring business dedicated to aiding veterans who might be facing similar challenges. During the conversation, Thryon shares his experiences, strategies, and tools for overcoming the issues faced specifically by veterans after military service. Exploring topics like the significance of community, mindfulness, and alternative therapies like yoga and acupuncture, the episode provides insights into rebuilding life after service. Tune in to understand how reshaping perceptions about mental health and actively seeking help can lead to transformational changes.

00:00 Introduction to Thyron Heyward 02:37 Impacts of Military Service - Personal Experiences 10:13 Aftermath of Service - Overcoming PTSD 13:32 Personal Growth & Self-Discovery 19:44 Mental Health Advocacy - Helping Others 54:30 Breaking the Stigma & Importance of Seeking Help

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Email Thyron Heyward: revets24@gmail.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Unleashing Forgiveness

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest is Katharine Giovanni. Katharine is dedicated to helping others unlock the transformative power of forgiveness based on her personal journey marked by adversity, including her own battle with breast cancer, a tough childhood, and her husband's status as a disabled veteran. Despite these obstacles, she discovered the importance of forgiveness on her mental and physical well-being. She passionately shares her insights with others through her book, 'The Ultimate Path to Forgiveness: Unlocking Your Power.' In this podcast, Katharine delves into the importance of forgiveness, how to navigate the journey of forgiveness, and why it's crucial for living a fulfilling life. We also discuss topics like how forgiving others affects our physical and mental health, why some things are unforgivable, the importance of gratitude, and how to handle unforgivable scenarios. Tune in to gain perspective on the power of forgiveness and to learn how forgiveness can transform your life.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.KatharineGiovanni.com
Follow Katharine Giovanni on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katharine.giovanni
Follow Katharine Giovanni on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katharinegiovanni/
Follow Katharine Giovanni on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinegiovanni/

Transcript

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Understanding Secondary Trauma and Family Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Michael Barnes, an expert in addiction counseling, trauma-integrated treatments, and family therapy. Drawing from over forty years of experience, Dr. Barnes brings a wealth of knowledge about the complex interplay of addiction, trauma, and family dynamics. He passionately discusses the concept of secondary trauma and its impact on the family members and caregivers of individuals who have experienced trauma. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of open communication and understanding in facilitating family healing, as well as the pivotal role of therapy and education in the process.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.drmikebarnes.com
https://www.forgingnewlives.com
Follow Michael Barnes on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088979888951
Follow Michael Barnes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmfb_colorado/
Follow Michael Barnes on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dr_MikeBarnes
Follow Michael Barnes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-barnes-phd-mac-lpc-1280694/

Transcript

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Military Transition and Entrepreneurship

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Sean Knudsen, an army veteran turned consultant for veterans and entrepreneurs, discusses his experiences during his transition from active duty into entrepreneurship. Sean provides insightful explanations about what he does, how he got there, and the challenges he faced. His experiences illustrate the importance of finding the right life and career path after leaving the military, and how his role as a coach helps guide individuals towards their business goals. This episode also contains helpful tips and strategies for anyone looking to start or grow their own business, including the importance of discovering your ideal lifestyle, determining associated costs, and building a business around it. Sean's entrepreneurial journey, coupled with his expert advice, offers a fascinating perspective for both veterans and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Follow Warrior Mindset Strategies on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Warrior-Mindset-Strategies/61553362145260
Follow Warrior Mindset Strategies on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriormindsetstrategies

Transcript

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Transforming Military Experience into a Life of Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, army veteran, caregiver, and entrepreneur Zorina Pritchett shares her inspiring journey. Zorina sheds light on her experience transitioning from active duty to reserves, managing her own disability, and then taking on the role of a caregiver for her brother. Zorina also discusses the significance of maintaining structure and discipline from her military experience and how she applied these attributes in her role as a caregiver. Furthermore, Zorina maps out her entrepreneurship journey with her company, Zochey, where she designs educational products aimed at strengthening bonds within busy families without resorting to extensive screen time.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.zochey.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Emotional Intelligence in Law Enforcement and the Military

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the importance of emotional intelligence in law enforcement and the military with seasoned police officer and founder of Reid Solutions, Gene Reid. The discussion explores how emotional intelligence permeates several facets of these professions, from managing emotions in high-stress situations to cultivating self-awareness and building relationships. Gene shares his perspective on how physical fitness and leadership intersect with emotional intelligence and the benefits it affords in terms of personal growth and effectiveness. With Gene's expertise in emotional intelligence, listeners can learn about tailoring their approach to challenging situations and acquiring the confidence to lead under pressure. His insights are invaluable not only to those in law enforcement and the military but anyone aiming to enhance their leadership skills and self-awareness.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://reidsolutionsllc.com
Follow Gene Reid on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeneReid22
Follow Gene Reid on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genereid22/
Follow Gene Reid on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gene-reid-ph-d-b725b1188/

Transcript

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Missile Attacks, TBIs, and New Beginnings

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, army veteran Aaron Futrell shares an in-depth recounting of his dramatic life-altering experience following a missile strike on Al Asad Air Base in January 2020. This story unfolds Futrell's resilience and determination as he navigated from recovering from a traumatic brain injury to transitioning to civilian life after being medically retired from the army. Despite adversities, hear how Aaron channeled his passion for fishing into a successful business and his unwavering commitment to giving back to fellow veterans through voluntary initiatives. Tune in for an inspirational journey of hope, strength, and resilience that perfectly captures the essence of the military community.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Books on Hunting by Aaron Futrell: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AAaron+B.+Futrell&s=relevancerank&text=Aaron+B.+Futrell&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1

Transcript

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Understanding Medicare & VA Benefits

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Toni King, a passionate educator in the complexities of Medicare, shares her insights to help veterans understand how Medicare works and how it blends with Veterans Affairs benefits. Toni underlines the fact that Medicare does not offer a 'cookie cutter' solution, with alternatives varying according to individual needs. The episode includes definitions of Medicare Part A to D, annual enrollment period, Medicare penalties, necessity of health consultations and much more. With firsthand experience of VA benefits, Toni offers a balanced view on navigating these every day healthcare concerns. Whether you are a veteran, a loved one of a veteran, or basically anyone trying to navigate the complex world of medical benefits, this episode is a must-listen.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.tonisays.com
Follow Toni King on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToniKingSays

Transcript

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The Value of Military Leadership Skills in Civilian Life

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, distinguished army veteran, trial lawyer, and CEO of Berry Law, John Berry, shares insightful stories about his military career, including service in Bosnia and Iraq. John emphasizes the importance of soldier camaraderie, team building, and transitioning military lessons to civilian life. He also highlights how his law firm has been helping fellow veterans in service-related disputes, advocating for their right to benefits and fair treatment. Further, this episode reminds military community members of their inherent leadership abilities and the importance of applying these skills in the civilian world. So whether you're a veteran, active duty, or a family member, listen to this episode to learn about your rights. 00:00 Introduction 04:07 Challenges and Growth in Leadership 09:33 The Power of Team Building 16:51 The Importance of Hiring the Right People 20:36 The Impact of Military Training on Individual Growth 34:35 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life: The Mindset Shift 35:43 Introducing the Veteran-Led Podcast 42:39 Addressing the Issue of Veteran Suicide and the Importance of Support 43:34 The Duty of Veterans to Give Back and Help Others 49:06 Understanding VA Disability Claims and Legal Representation 57:35 The Value of Legal Representation in VA Disability Claims 01:01:41 The Role of Leadership in Preventing Misconduct 01:05:33 Conclusion: The Continued Service of Veterans

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://ptsdlawyers.com/
Follow John Berry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veteranled/
Follow John Berry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteranled/
Follow John Berry on Twitter: https://twitter.com/veteranled/
Follow John Berry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veteranled/

Transcript

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Honor Flights Celebrating Our Heroes

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, guests Stephen Garrington and Jim Carson share their rewarding work with Honor Flight Network, an organization dedicated to helping veterans visit war memorials in Washington, D.C. Both Stephen and Jim are veterans themselves focused on honoring the service and sacrifices of former military personnel from the Vietnam, Korea, and World War II generations. The discussion covers the impactful experiences of the veterans partaking in these Honor Flights, the process to participate, and the emotional significance of the visits to the memorials. The conversation also includes the universal military experiences that connect veterans across eras and service branches. Listen to this episode to gain a deep understanding of the honor flights and how they serve to appreciate and acknowledge the service of veterans. 00:00 Introduction & Purpose of the Show 00:25 Introduction of the Guests: Stephen Garrington and Jim Carson 00:35 What is 'Honor Flights' 06:03 Setting Up a Hub for Honor Flights 35:09 How Veterans Can Apply for Honor Flights 09:33 Experiences of Veterans on Honor Flights 37:26 Importance of Honor Flights for Veterans 28:00 How to Volunteer for Honor Flights 40:17 Humorous End Segment: 'Is it service connected?'

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.honorflight.org/
Follow Honor Flights on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HonorFlightNetwork
Follow Honor Flights on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honorflightnetwork/
Follow Honor Flights on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HonorFlightNet
Follow Honor Flights on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/honor-flight-network
Follow Honor Flights on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeH02et5g5wdYOlv4mz7ZMA

Transcript

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Connection between Trauma, Biology, and Mental Health

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 08:02:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at the relationship between trauma, biology, and mental health with guest and expert Michelle Brown. Michelle is a functional nutrition and lifestyle practitioner, clinical herbalist, and a master level Biology of Trauma advanced provider. This conversation covers the understanding of the trauma response, its impact on our health, and the crucial role that proper nutrition plays in addressing these chronic health issues. Learn about how our body and nervous system react to stress and how these responses can often lead to conditions like anxiety, depression, and fatigue. It's an enlightening discussion that offers insights into the intricate connection between trauma and mental health, proving invaluable for anyone dealing with stress or looking to better understand the effects of trauma on their life and health.

Links & Resources

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
Website: https://www.botanacea.com
Link to Michelle's Free Assessment Guide: https://botanacea.lpages.co/mood-fix-assessment/
Follow Michelle Brown on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_botanacea/
Follow Michelle Brown on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-brown-b48a31205/

Transcript

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Empowering Veterans Through Sailing

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Sean Duclay, co-founder of Sail Ahead, an organization that fuses the healing power of sailing with a mission to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and veteran suicide. Sean shares valuable insights about the birth of Sail Ahead, the impact it has had on empowering veterans, and some deeply touching experiences he has had with veterans who have taken part in Sail Ahead programs. The episode tells of how Sean is using sailing as a therapeutic avenue for veterans, helping them reconnect with their communities and find hope and strength. It also highlights the importance of general awareness about veteran suicide. This episode is a vital listen for anyone interested in creative therapeutic methods, veteran recovery, and the power of community engagement. 00:27 Introduction and Overview of Sail Ahead 01:34 Sean Duclay's Inspiration and Journey 03:45 Impact and Real-life Experiences 09:02 Importance of Teamwork and Connection 15:07 Programs and Events Conducted by Sail Ahead 06:01 Moving Stories of Impact & Value of Community 25:17 The Way Forward and How to Contribute

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.sailahead.org
Follow SailAhead on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SailAhead/
Follow SailAhead on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailahead219/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Gold Star Dad Shares a Heartfelt Story

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Karl Porfirio, a Gold Star father, joins us to share how he turned his grief into a poignant children's book, 'My Daddy's Heart is Purple.'

Karl offers a heartrending account of the loss of his son, Senior Airman Tre Porfirio, and shares stories filled with laughter, tears, and moments of inspiration. While discussing Tre's military legacy, Karl also unpacks the ups and downs of his journey through grief, providing a unique perspective on loss, remembrance, and resilience.

The episode concludes with an uplifting note about the importance of keeping the memory of veterans alive for future generations. This deeply emotional conversation will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss or is interested in the personal stories behind military service.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Get My Daddy's Heart is Purple on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Daddys-Heart-Purple-Karl-Porfirio/dp/1640035346
Follow Karl Porfirio on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/dadnme88

Transcript

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Benefits of Ketamine Infusion Therapy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look into Ketamine infusion therapy with our guest, Sam Mandel, the co-founder and CEO of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles. With his strong dedication to mental health advocacy, Sam discusses Ketamine infusion therapy. This treatment method offers relief for a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies. The conversation provides insights into how Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles sets itself apart with its treatment approach. They also discuss the function of ketamine and how it works within the human body to remedy mental health challenges. Subsequently, Sam elaborates on how patients engage with the process and the impressive success rate of the clinic. Finally, he provides valuable advice on seeking out reputable ketamine therapy clinics. You will get an insider's look into this innovative therapy that provides rapid, effective results with minimal side effects. 00:00 Introduction 00:16 Understanding Ketamine Infusion Therapy 01:34 Exploring Diverse Uses of Ketamine 03:54 The Actual Process and Care in Ketamine Infusion 03:33 Benefits and Duration of Ketamine Infusion Therapy 09:20 Features of an Ideal Candidate for Ketamine Infusion Therapy 24:24 Advice for Potential Therapy Seekers

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://ketamineclinics.com
Follow Sam Mandel on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thesammandel
Follow Sam Mandel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thesammandel
Follow Sam Mandel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesammandel/

Transcript

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Dancing towards Better Mental Health

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Jennifer Nash, an executive coach and passionate ballroom dancer, provides an enlightening perspective on dance as a therapeutic, social, and competitive activity. She shares her revealing experience of picking up ballroom dancing post-divorce, a journey that led her to discover its immense potential for healing, self-discovery, and community building. She emphasizes the dance floor's innate power to uplift mood, alleviate stress, foster connections, and drive mental well-being. She further touches upon its inclusivity by exploring the opportunities it offers for individuals with diverse mobility and social preferences. Anyone looking for a unique perspective on alternative therapeutic activities, the power of community, or effective ways to handle the stresses of life transitions may find this conversation insightful. 00:25 The Healing Power of Dance 00:28 Ballroom Dancing - A Social Connector and Mood Booster 25:09 Ballroom Dancing for Individuals with Various Abilities 36:16 Dance as a Tool to Improve Communication

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

DrJenniferNash.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Insider View of Veterans Appeals Process

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we are joined by Cheri Mason, a distinguished attorney who dedicated years of service to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Cheri's career includes becoming the first woman and military spouse to be Chairman of the Board of Veterans Appeals. The discussion focuses primarily on the inner workings of the Veterans' Appeals process and the improvements made to streamline and enhance the system. Cheri also opens up about her family's experience with suicide and the importance of open dialogue around mental health in society. She offers valuable resources for suicide prevention and the importance of seeking help when needed. Additionally, she provides a sneak peek into her upcoming book, 'Dare to Relate, Leading with a Fierce Heart' and shares the profound lessons she learned in her leadership journey. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking a better understanding of Veteran's benefits, mental health challenges, and leadership.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.catalystleadershipmgmt.com/
Follow Cheri Mason on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/cheri-cheryl-mason-b231838

Transcript

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Empowering Veterans Through Writing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:23:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest, Jeff Circle, a veteran author, award-winning journalist, and creator of 'The Writers Dossier,' shares his extraordinary journey. From serving in the army to becoming a professional writer, Jeff's path has been anything but ordinary. Highlighting his experiences from the jungles of Korea to the burn pits of Iraq, and the corporate world, he discusses stepping into the daunting world of writing and how he found solidarity in the process. We explore Jeff's advice for aspiring writers and his aim to assist them through 'The Writers Dossier.' This episode is an insightful look into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that come with changing careers post-military service.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://jeffcircle.com/
Follow Jeff Circle on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeffCircleBooks
Follow Jeff Circle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffcircle_books/
Follow Jeff Circle on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jeff_Circle
Follow Jeff Circle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcircle/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Military Service, Mental Health, and Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest is Navy Veteran Kristof Morrow. He shares his experiences in the military, and specifically the lasting effect of his shipmate's suicide on his life. We talk about handling mental health issues in the military, the hard road of grief, and steps toward suicide prevention. Kristof underscores the importance of a sympathetic and genuine approach when interacting with veterans struggling with mental health. The conversation includes how writing became an essential coping mechanism for him. This episode is essential for gaining more knowledge about mental health in the military context.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Follow Kristof Morrow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristofmorrow/
The Second Sun Book: https://www.amazon.com/Second-Sun-Volumes-II/dp/B0BW2JXHWK/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding Strength Through Transformation & Self Belief

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Andrea Vallely, a transformational coach shares how she helps individuals navigate their state of mind towards better health and wellbeing. The conversation helps listeners understand the essence of self-acceptance, the power of a positive mindset, and techniques for transitioning from a state of worry to a state of calm.

Andrea brings to light the importance of breathing and physical activities, such as yoga, to help quiet the mind. She emphasizes the power of being okay with one's present state, focusing on improvement rather than dwelling on the past or future. This episode is an insightful guide for anyone looking to understand their own personal growth potential and how to create a solid foundation in life.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.shifthappens.global
Follow Andrea Vallely on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spreadhappy.net
Follow Andrea Vallely on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shifthappensglobal/
Follow Andrea Vallely on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/spreadhappynet
Follow Andrea Vallely on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-vallely-1b15bb71/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Beacon 4 HOPE

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Doug Brinker is the founder of Beacon 4 HOPE, an organization dedicated to providing suicide prevention techniques and workshops. Our conversation begins with Doug's life background and journey. He shares his experience serving in two different branches of the military and talks about the ups and downs he faced. From being a survivor of two suicide attempts to becoming a beacon of hope for others navigating the difficult topic of suicide prevention, Doug's story is inspiring. He sheds light on his recovery process, indicating the importance of self-discipline, dedication, and the role of therapy in his journey. Doug highlights the impact of mental health stigma and underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health. He speaks passionately about the sense of purpose each individual possesses and its pivotal role in their lives. At the end, humor reasserts its importance through a funny video segment. Overall, this episode offers a mix of a personal, powerful tale of resilience, a broader discussion on mental health, and light-hearted humor.

00:00 Introduction and Background Story
06:55 Stigma on Mental Health
45:26 Finding Purpose and Significance
52:02 Humor Segment

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://douglasbrinker.com
Follow Beacon 4 HOPE on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Beacon4Hope
Follow Doug Brinker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasbrinker-inspirationalspeaker

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

The Journey Of Grief And Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Allicia Johnson Niles shares her experience of losing her father in the military at a young age, which had a heavy impact on her life. Allicia discusses the importance of openly addressing grief, her own journey to healing, and her groundbreaking revelation about her father's untimely demise. Throughout this journey, Allicia emphasizes the importance of community support, such as the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and shares the profound impact it had on her healing process. Allicia also teases her upcoming book 'Angel in Arlington' where she digs deeper into these themes.

00:00 Introduction to podcast and Sponsor
01:41 Introduction to guest
02:14 Allicia shares her story
02:51 Revelation of unaddressed grief
04:15 Impact of loss on personal life
05:48 Insight into the grieving process
02:18 Discussion on validation and self-discovery
49:18 Unveiling the TAPS program
43:09 Closing message

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.angelinarlington.com/
Follow Allicia Johnson Niles on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnlikelyCourage
Follow Allicia Johnson Niles on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unlikelycourage/
Follow Allicia Johnson Niles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alliciajniles/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Leadership and Military Family Support

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Paul Vann is a leadership consultant, author, and military veteran with an extensive career in the U.S. Air Force, the Pentagon, and the private sector. This episode explores his experiences in the military, his role in the National Guard Family Readiness Program, and his work on military and veterans' issues on Capitol Hill. It looks into the challenges facing military families, including struggles with housing, food security, and healthcare, as well as the impact of the pandemic. Paul offers invaluable insights on fostering resilience in military communities and his efforts to improve military family support programs. The interview also showcases his commitment to leadership education, his work as an author and speaker, and his insightful grasp of the vital role that communication and mentoring play in military life. This episode offers a powerful exploration of tentative issues affecting military life and serves as a valuable resource for military families and those seeking to understand their challenges better.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast
00:22 Introducing 4Patriots: Emergency Preparedness Products
01:41 Welcome Back to Drive On: Guest Introduction
03:14 Paul Vann's Military Journey
15:04 Challenges Faced by Military Families
23:41 Supporting Military Families: National Military Family Association
33:05 Paul's Experience Working on Capitol Hill
35:16 Improving Military Funeral Honor Duty Process
35:51 The Importance of Military Funeral Honors
36:57 Impact of Military Funerals on Families
37:49 The Need for Funding in Military Funerals
38:44 Personal Experiences with Military Funerals
40:42 The Role of Family Readiness Program
40:54 How Military Families Can Get Involved
45:46 The Value of Volunteering and Community Involvement
46:05 The Importance of Leadership Development in Youth
46:49 The Importance of Communication in Leadership
51:44 Promoting Preparedness with 4Patriots
53:04 Leadership Development Programs and Books
56:18 Humor in Military Culture
01:00:40 Closing Remarks and Appreciation

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.leadershipisinfluencebook.com
https://PaulVannSpeaks.com
Follow Paul Vann on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulvann1
Follow Paul Vann on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paullawrencevann
Follow Paul Vann on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/paulvann
Follow Paul Vann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullawrencevann

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Pathway into Writing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Matt Scott discusses his transformation from a corporate worker to a writer, shedding light on the multi-layered writing process and the significance of believing in oneself and taking the leap despite age or circumstances. He provides an in-depth view into his book series, which focuses on the Iranian threat to the West and takes readers on a journey through Iran, an aspect rarely spotlighted in literature.

Matt shares the valuable advice he received from established author David Baldacci and how it helped him through self-doubt and gave him confidence. He emphasizes the importance of planning, reading, character development, and being well-prepared to morph your writing dreams into reality.

As many people in the military transition from active service to civilian life, this episode is a great inspiration to those contemplating a career shift to writing, highlighting that it's never too late.

[00:05]: Introduction
[02:15]: Podcast Sponsor Message
[04:50]: Introducing Matt Scott
[07:30]: Matt shares his bio and the Surviving the Lion's Den series
[15:00]: How the Publishing industry works
[18:00]: Overcoming Self Doubt
[27:45]: Writing the book vs. publishing the book
[35:10]: Writing Craft and Publishing Business
[39:15]: Overview of the Surviving the Lion's Den series
[45:05]: Ending Joke
[47:00]: Outro and Thanks

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://Mattscottbooks.com
Follow Matt Scott on Facebook: https://facebook.com/Matt.Scott.1272
Follow Matt Scott on Instagram: https://instagram.com/mattscottbooks
Follow Matt Scott on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mattscottbooks
Follow Matt Scott on LinkedIn: https://LinkedIn.com/mpscott44

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Expressive Arts as a Pathway to Healing and Resilience

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:08:19 +0000

In this episode, the host interviews guest Kathryn Vecchio about her unique intervention program that utilizes expressive arts for mental healing. Drawing from her diverse professional background including working in government, city, county, and state sectors, private practice, as well as a staff psychologist at a maximum security prison, Kathryn discusses the concept of seeing life as the greatest work of art. She highlights the therapeutic benefits of sparking imagination and creativity. Using captivating stories, she demonstrates how engaging with creativity has helped individuals go from thinking 'I can't' to 'I did and I will'.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast
00:22 Preparing for the Unexpected with 4Patriots
01:41 Welcome Back to Drive On: Introducing Kathryn Vecchio
02:07 Kathryn's Journey: From History and Education to Psychology
04:02 The Power of Art in Life: A New Perspective
05:39 Igniting Imagination: The Key to Overcoming Challenges
06:51 The Beauty of Trench Art: Creativity in Crisis
08:19 The Power of Creativity: From Tragedy to Triumph
09:43 The Sandy Hook Story: Post Traumatic Stress Growth
13:10 The Science Behind Art Therapy: How it Helps
14:01 The Power of Perspective: Seeing Beauty in Chaos
16:28 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Art
18:52 The Power of Art in Healing and Growth
21:19 The Role of Art in Personal Development
23:49 The Bumps are the Road: Embracing Life's Challenges
24:54 The Power of 'I Can': Overcoming Limitations
33:26 4Patriots: Your Partner in Preparedness
34:45 The Power of Practice and Learning
35:17 Creativity and Art in Unusual Places
37:07 The Importance of Practicing Correctly
38:33 The Power of Adjustments and Change
41:16 Reflecting on Past Actions and Decisions
42:40 The Importance of Time and Living Life Fully
44:31 The Struggles of Reintegration and the Need for Resilience
52:52 The Power of Art Therapy and Creativity
01:01:23 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://artfortheheartfoundation.org

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Discussing the Impact of Marijuana Use

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This discussion features Dr. Raymond Wiggins, sharing insights and research on the harms of marijuana use. Despite being an advocate of natural remedies, Dr. Wiggins highlights the destructive impact of marijuana use, particularly the high-potency versions available today. He touches on both medical and legal aspects and underscores the potential health ailments, psychological impacts, and addictive qualities.

With his Christian perspective, he also acknowledges the spiritual effects. The conversation also dives further into the influence of the legalization trend.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast
00:22 Preparing for Emergencies with 4Patriots
01:41 Welcome Back to Drive On
01:48 The Unspoken Harms of Marijuana
03:12 Personal Experiences with Marijuana
06:14 The Medical Perspective on Marijuana
14:00 The Legal Implications of Marijuana Use
22:17 The Spiritual Perspective on Marijuana
30:32 The Future of Marijuana Legalization
38:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://drwiggins.com
Follow Dr. Wiggins on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drwiggins
Follow Dr. Wiggins on Instagram: https://instagram.com/rwiggins68
Follow Dr. Wiggins on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rlwiggins
Follow Dr. Wiggins on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/raymond-wiggins-2a9a9169

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Harnessing Special Effects Skills

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Guest Steve Wolf discusses his transition from being a Hollywood special effects coordinator to developing technologies to combat wildfires. The key focus is on the use of wind-controlling technology, which is designed to disrupt wildfires, and how it improves water efficiency and safety measures. The potential of this technology in protecting military bases is explored. The conversation evolves around the correlation between the special effects and military industries and how skills acquired in the military can have applications within Hollywood. The development of fire suppression tech is emphasized, along with an invitation for military bases to test it by conducting prescribed fires. The episode offers insights and opportunities to anyone interested in firefighting and special effects, especially individuals with military experience.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast
00:22 Introducing 4Patriots: Emergency Preparedness Products
01:41 Welcome Back to Drive On: Guest Introduction
01:51 Steve Wolf's Background and Invention
02:35 Appreciation for Service Members
10:21 Steve's Journey from Hollywood to Fighting Wildfires
12:20 The Science Behind Fighting Wildfires
15:57 Firearm Safety Discussion
19:13 The Transition from Special Effects to Fighting Wildfires
21:21 The Efficiency of the New Firefighting Technology
24:58 The Importance of Firefighting Preparedness
28:28 The Future of Firefighting Technology
30:16 The Economic Impact of Wildfires
34:06 The Importance of Fire Safety Measures
39:11 Fire Breaks and Fire Safety
40:11 Transitioning from Military to Special Effects Career
40:58 The Value of Military Skills in Special Effects
43:28 Creating Safe Special Effects
48:06 The Importance of Firearm Safety
58:30 Exploring Career Opportunities in Wildfire Suppression
01:03:37 The Future of Wildfire Suppression
01:10:24 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.TeamWildfire.com
Follow Steve Wolf on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/wolfsteve
Other Links: https://teamwildfire.tv/m/TWF

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Military Mental Health: Culture, Preparedness, and Support

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Rachel Oswalt, a Navy veteran, host of the 'Your Story Doesn't End Here' podcast, and a prominent voice in the military mental health space, shares why mental health preparedness in the military community is crucial and how veterans can navigate resources available to them. Rachel also shared her personal experience with the Navy, exploring the constantly changing and challenging culture, managing her mental health journey, and the loss of friends to suicide. Both Scott and Rachel emphasized the importance of storytelling as a means to raise mental health awareness. Towards the end, they also focused on the need for more mental health resources and support systems for active duty and veterans.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.ysdeh.com
Follow Rachel Oswalt on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ysdeh
Follow Rachel Oswalt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_ysdeh
Follow Rachel Oswalt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-oswalt

Transcript

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Rediscovering Life After Addiction

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Kelly Killingsworth, a military veteran, shares his inspiring journey of recovering from addiction and restructuring his life. Once an addict and stuck in a toxic relationship, Kelly felt his life spiraling out of control until the potential loss of his children encouraged him to confront his demons. He discusses how cutting destructive influences out of his life and gaining structure from the Army helped him beat addiction. Furthermore, Kelly talks about the importance of having a mentor and setting personal goals. He discusses using the GI Bill to facilitate his transition and secure a stable income and the role that resilience and a clear vision have played in transforming his life. Now, Kelly is his own boss, sober, and dedicated to using his experiences to guide others through their struggles.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.strengththroughstruggle.com
Follow Kelly Killingsworth on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553622990136&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Follow Kelly Killingsworth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_strengththroughstruggle
Follow Kelly Killingsworth on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@native_viking3?_t=8hdg5l6bwVf&_r=1
Follow Kelly Killingsworth on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kellykillingsworth01

Transcript

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Finding Balance and Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Marine veteran, James Gervasio, discusses his past struggles with addiction, trauma, and his journey to self-discovery. James shares his personal experiences from the Battle of Nasiriyah and the transition he had to undergo from being a soldier to becoming a civilian. He gives insight into the harsh realities war veterans face even after leaving the service - the constant battles with PTSD and the struggle of not relating with societal norms. James goes on to explain how he was able to overcome these challenges. James also reveals how he now uses his experiences to help others navigate through their own situations to find peace and reshape their lives.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://newearthleadershipacademy.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Humor and Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Robin Johnson, an Army veteran and the CEO of Best Medicine Brigade, shares her journey from a military career to becoming a comedian and creating a platform for other military-connected comedians. Discussing her organization, she explains how she offers performance opportunities for veteran and military spouse comedians. In addition, Robin highlights how humor can be used as a tool for improving mental well-being, reframing negative thoughts, and building trust within organizations. While extensively discussing the importance and benefits of humor, Robin also shares her personal experiences and funny anecdotes.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.bestmedicinebrigade.com
Follow Robin Johnson on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comedianrobinphoenix
Follow Robin Johnson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinphoenixjohnson/
Follow Robin Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-johnson790/

Transcript

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Elevating Heroes’ Voices

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this engaging discussion with Army veteran Donald Dunn, we follow his personal journey through PTSD and his innovative use of podcasting and music as therapeutic channels. Donald discusses the Heroes Voices Media Foundation, which is a platform empowering veteran musicians, podcasters, and authors. The foundation supports platforms like 'Gun Room Radio' and 'Military United Podcast Streams,' which help promote veteran and military-connected creators.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.gunroomradio.com
Follow Gun Room Radio on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gunroomradio

Transcript

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Becoming a Dangerous Man

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Navy veteran, Phil Anderton shares his transformation story into what he calls a 'dangerous man.' Together, they discuss the importance of self-preparation, the need to reassess traditional roles, and the significance of being ready to protect one's family. Phil elaborates on his coaching programs designed to instill confidence, offer clarity, and encourage people to take more intentional actions.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://philanderton.com
Follow Phil Anderton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-anderton

Transcript

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Honoring Our Fallen Supporting Military Families

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Laura Herzog, the founder and executive director of Honoring Our Fallen, discusses the organization's mission, which is dedicated to supporting Gold Star Families coping with the loss of a loved one. Using her experience in human resources management and as a public affairs officer, Laura shares how Honoring Our Fallen supports families through difficult times, offering various resources and programs such as retreats and a Random Acts of Love program. The conversation also touches on the different forms of grief, the importance of maintaining connections and building communities for support, and how different organizations can work together to fill in gaps in assistance.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.honoringourfallen.org
Follow Honoring Our Fallen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honoringourfallen

Transcript

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Damn the Valley – An Inside Look at the ‘Meat Grinder’ Deployment

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

William Yeske, Army veteran and author of 'Damn the Valley', discusses his book, which provides insights into his deployment in an area known as 'The Meat Grinder' in Afghanistan. He shares the harrowing experiences of veterans, delving into the psychological impact of warfare and the importance of unity within military units. We also discuss the significance of support systems for veterans transitioning back to civilian life.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://damnthevalleybook.com
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damnthevalleybook/
Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damnthevalleybook
Follow on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@damnthevalleybook
Follow on TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@damnthevalleybook
Follow on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/WYeske

Transcript

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Discussing Mental Health Support with Ohana Homefront Foundation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Sarah Otto and Candace Guelzo join the show from the Ohana Homefront Foundation. The foundation aims to provide support for the entire military community - veterans, active duty, guard, reserve, and their families - primarily focusing on mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiatives.

Sarah Otto, co-founder and CEO of the foundation, shares her motivation behind starting this foundation - addressing the mental health challenges faced by military families and instilling a system that doesn't report back to commands.

Candace Guelzo, serving as the Chief Operating Officer on the Mental Health side, talks about breaking down stigmas around mental health in the military and creating awareness. She champions for a shift in the perspective of treating mental health like overall health. Both guests stress the importance of providing easy access to mental health services and resources.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.ohanahomefront.org
Follow Ohana Homefront Foundation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OhanaHomefrontFoundation
Follow Ohana Homefront Foundation on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohana_homefront_foundation
Follow Ohana Homefront Foundation on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/OhanaHomefront
Follow Ohana Homefront Foundation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ohanahomefront

Transcript

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Equestrian Therapy for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Drive On Podcast, host Scott DeLuzio engages in a heartening conversation with his guest, Zachary Layden, founder of Oceanview Stables. Zachary details his journey from being a military veteran to finding solace in horses and establishing a career in business training them. He explains how 'natural horsemanship' aids veterans to reconnect with themselves while building trust with these highly sensitive animals. Layden also shares an inspiring success story that changed his business course, leading him to offer free rides for veterans. The program aims to offer a therapeutic experience, giving them hope, strength, and purpose while subtly healing their emotional wounds. The discussion also includes insightful tips for veterans interested in getting involved with horses and offers to aid other businesses in building similar veteran-oriented programs.

00:00 Introduction to the Drive On Podcast
00:23 Guest Introduction: Zachary Layden
00:50 Zachary's Journey from Military to Horse Training
02:52 The Healing Power of Horses
03:34 Sponsored Message: 4Patriots - https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn
04:55 The Struggles of Veterans Post-Service
09:15 The Therapeutic Impact of Horses
10:56 The Role of Horses in Leadership Training
17:52 The Transformative Story of a Veteran
23:41 The Power of Working with Horses
23:59 Challenges and Successes in Managing a Horse Facility
24:49 The Importance of Teamwork in Business
27:30 Advice for Getting Involved with Horses
31:39 The Future of Oceanview Stables
32:38 Supporting Veterans through Horsemanship
36:24 The Impact of Businesses Offering Free Services for Veterans
39:30 Job Opportunities at Oceanview Stables
40:08 Sponsored Message: 4Patriots - https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn
41:28 Is It Service Connected? Segment
46:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - visit https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn to get the best discounts and deals on survival supplies!

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.oceanviewstables.com
Follow Ocean View Stables on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OceanVStables/
Follow Ocean View Stables on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ocean_view_stables/
Follow Zachary Leyden on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-leyden-a178a679

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

A Journey to Healing Through Posttraumatic Growth

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we're joined by David Nathanson, a USMC veteran with over 30 years of experience. He's the Executive Director of the Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans and first responders.

The Eagle Oak Retreat Foundation is committed to providing wellness services and posttraumatic growth training to those who dedicate their lives to serving others. Their focus is on helping combat veterans and first responders overcome the traumatic stress that often results from their service to our country.

One of the programs that Eagle Oak Retreat offers is Warrior PATHH, which was developed in collaboration with the Boulder Crest Foundation. This innovative program is designed to help combat veterans and first responders transform deep struggle into strength, fostering lifelong Posttraumatic Growth. We'll explore how this program works and its incredible impact on the lives of our nation's heroes.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots: https://4Patriots.com/DriveOn

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.eagleoakretreat.org/
Follow Eagle Oak Retreat on Instagram: https://instagram.com/eagleoakretreat
Follow Eagle Oak Retreat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eagleoakretreatfoundation/
Follow Eagle Oak Retreat on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/eagleoakretreat
Follow Eagle Oak Retreat on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EagleOakRetreat/
Follow David Nathanson on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nathansondavid

Transcript

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Vietnam Combat: Firefights and Writing History

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Robin Bartlett grew up in a three-generation military family, but as the Vietnam War escalated, he chose ROTC. Upon graduation, as a Distinguished Military Graduate, he volunteered for Infantry, Airborne, and Ranger training and assignment to the 82nd Airborne Division. He got everything he asked for…and more. Bartlett served as a Combat Infantry Platoon Leader at the height of the Vietnam War from 1968-69. He led 28 soldiers on helicopter combat assaults and search and destroy missions with the famed 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). His book, Vietnam Combat: Firefights and Writing History, relates his unusual experiences during that war...some horrific, some humorous. Bartlett holds a master's degree in media from Pace University in NYC and a BA degree in Comparative Literature from Claremont McKenna College in California. He is the President of the NY/NJ Chapter of the 1st Cavalry Division Association and lives with his wife in Norwood, New Jersey. They have three sons, none of whom have pursued military careers.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: www.RobinBartlettAuthor.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veteran Champions and Military Ministry

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Drive On podcast, we talk to Kathy Gallowitz, the founder of Vanguard Veteran. Kathy shares her insights on the challenges that veterans face and how Vanguard Veteran is working to support them. She also discusses the Veteran Champions program, military ministry, and veteran hiring.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Vanguard Veteran Overview: https://vanguardveteran.start.page
Military Ministries Matter Coaching Call: https://bbemaildelivery.com/bbext/?p=email&id=d4b78ab4-4490-254f-87c3-21f479c6906f
Military Ministries Quiz: https://vanguardveteran.files.wordpress.com/2022/04/military-ministry-quiz-1.pdf
Invite Vanguard Veteran to Speak: https://vanguardveteran.com/invite-me-to-speak/
"Beyond 'Thank you For Your Service:' the Veteran Champion handbook for civilians" on Amazon: https://bit.ly/BeyondThankYouForYourService
Transition Career Resource Guide for Veterans and Military Spouses: https://vanguardveteran.files.wordpress.com/2022/10/veteran-vanguard-transition-career-resource-guide-for-veterans-military-strategy-to-success-llc.pdf
Women Who Lead: A monthly free hybrid Leadership Discussion Forum for women Veterans and non-veterans to empower women leaders and foster mutual support. We hope you will join us! Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/137542143253

Transcript

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Coffee with a Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for an engaging conversation with Katie Preste, a Navy veteran and the founder of Boots On Ground Coffee Co. Katie's mission-driven business combines her love for coffee with her unwavering commitment to supporting military and veteran organizations. Find out how a simple cup of coffee can make a significant difference in the lives of those who have served, one sip at a time.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Boots On Ground Coffee Website: https://www.bootsongroundcoffee.co/
Boots On Ground Coffee Etsy Store: https://etsy.com/shop/bootsongroundcoffee
Follow Boots on Ground Coffee on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088199246149
Follow Boots on Ground Coffee on Instagram: https://instagram.com/bootsongroundcoffeeco

Transcript

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Changing the Landscape of Military Spouse Employment

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Laura Early shares insights into how WISE Advise + Assist Team is redefining the employment landscape for military spouses and veterans. Discover how this organization connects small businesses with the immense talent and expertise of military spouses, enabling them to pursue fulfilling careers in a remote work environment. Join us as we look into the stories of success and empowerment made possible by WISE Advise + Assist Team.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.wiseadviseteam.com
Follow WISE on Facebook: https://facebook.com/wiseadviseteam
Follow WISE on Instagram: https://instagram.com/wiseadviseteam
Follow WISE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wiseadviseteam
Follow WISE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wise-advise-and-assist-team/
Follow Laura Early on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraearly23/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding Meaningful Opportunities in the Trades

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Army veteran Michael Conner discusses the career opportunities available to veterans transitioning out of the military in the trades.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Follow Michael Conner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelconner2/
https://eascarpenters.org/
https://www.carpenters.org/
https://ubcpiledrivers.org/
Contact Michael Conner directly: mconner@eascarpenters.org

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Military Families Tackle Long-Distance Moves

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Military life often involves frequent relocations, presenting unique challenges for families searching for a new home. Tiffany Klusacek and Ashlee Jankovich, real estate agents and military spouses, shed light on their specialized approach to making long-distance moves smoother. Discover how they leverage technology and community connections to support military families in finding the perfect place to call home.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Follow Tiffany & Ashlee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realestatable/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Telling Stories and Leaving Legacies

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Drive On podcast, we talk to Mike Nelson, a fiction author and Vietnam War veteran, about the importance of storytelling and documentation. Mike discusses how storytelling can be a powerful way to leave a legacy and preserve the stories of veterans. He also shares some examples of people who have inspired him with their stories.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.AuthorMikeNelson.com
Michael's books can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and on his website: https://authormikenelson.com/my-books/
Follow Michael Nelson on Instagram: https://instagram.com/mikenelson373
Follow Michael Nelson on X: https://twitter.com/michael92087385

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How to Get the VA Benefits You Deserve

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Drive On podcast, we talk to Paul Lawrence, the former Under Secretary for Benefits at the VA, about his book "Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve." Paul shares his insights on the VA benefits system and how veterans can get the benefits they deserve. He also discusses some of the challenges that veterans face when navigating the system and offers advice to veterans who are thinking about applying for VA benefits.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve: https://a.co/d/a8qKUSY
Paul Lawrence Website: https://paulrlawrence.com
Follow Paul Lawrence on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drpaullawrence/
Follow Paul Lawrence on X: https://twitter.com/PaulRLawrence

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Sheep Dog Impact Assistance Reshapes Lives

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we have the honor of chatting with Lance Nutt, a Marine Corps veteran who dedicated an impressive three decades to serving his country. Lance is now the founder and CEO of Sheep Dog Impact Assistance (SDIA), which is committed to supporting veterans and first responders.

Lance then shares the inspiration that led to the creation of SDIA. He discusses the organization's multifaceted approach, encapsulated by the "Get Off The Couch™" programming, which encompasses outdoor adventures, mental wellness training through Warrior PATHH, and the significance of continued service and disaster response.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://sheepdogia.org/
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheepDogIA/
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheepdogia/
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sheep-dog-impact-assistance

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

From the Battlefield to the Page

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Drive On podcast, we chat with Navy veteran and author Jeffrey Wilson about his journey from the battlefield to the page. Jeff talks about his experiences writing the TIER ONE series, a military thriller based on his own experiences. He also discusses the challenges of writing military fiction and the importance of using his platform to uplift his fellow veterans.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.andrews-wilson.com
Follow Andrews & Wilson on Instagram: https://instagram.com/andrewsandWilson
Follow Andrews & Wilson on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/BAndrewsJWilson
https://foldsofhonor.org/
https://www.seallegacy.org/
https://www.allsecurefoundation.org/
https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Transcript

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Healing Veterans One Dog at a Time

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

BJ Ganem takes us back to his time in Iraq when his vehicle was struck by an I.E.D. This life-altering moment left him with an amputated leg, a mild brain injury, and shrapnel wounds. It was also a pivotal moment that reshaped his perspective on life and led him on a path of service and advocacy.

Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, and BJ shares his personal experiences with this process. He discusses how he found his purpose in helping other veterans navigate this journey, particularly through his roles as an accredited Veteran Service Officer and his involvement in establishing the Veteran to Veteran Program with the Semper Fi & America's Fund.

BJ's commitment to supporting veterans led him to pursue a Master's in Social Work, with a focus on military life, further enhancing his ability to make a difference in the lives of veterans.

BJ is now the founder and CEO of Sierra Delta. Under BJ's leadership, Sierra Delta combines the love of dogs with service to veterans. The organization's core programs, the Life Buddy Program and the Life Force Program play a crucial role in supporting veterans. The Life Buddy Program assists veterans in obtaining and training dogs tailored to their specific needs. The Life Force Program unites veterans and supporters through various activities and initiatives that make a meaningful impact.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.sierradelta.com/
Sierra Delta on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SierraDeltaServiceDogs
Sierra Delta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sierradeltadogs/
BJ Ganem on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjganem/

Transcript

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Mindful Movement: Yoga for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Yoga has gained popularity worldwide, but some veterans may not fully understand the depth of its benefits. Today's guest, Nicole Byars, highlights how trauma-informed yoga can be a powerful tool for veterans, addressing both physical and mental well-being. Beyond the physical postures, Nicole unveils the broader aspects of yoga, including its profound impact on mental and emotional health.

For those looking to try trauma-informed yoga but don't know where to start, check out The Honest Yoga (link below) on Veterans Day to try a free virtual session. You can do it from the privacy and comfort of your home or wherever you are able to access the internet.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.thehonestyoga.com
Follow Nicole Byars on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NicoleAByars/
Follow Nicole Byars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicbyars
Follow Nicole Byars on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-byars-58a6b95
Veterans Yoga Project: https://veteransyogaproject.org/

Transcript

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Cyber Opportunities for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look into the world of Cyber with Steve Stratton, a retired Green Beret who is on a mission to empower veterans to embrace exciting careers in technology. Steve's journey from his time in the US Army White House Communications and US Secret Service to becoming a Green Beret equipped him with invaluable insights into the skills veterans bring to the table.

With the Cyber industry facing an unprecedented talent shortage, veterans possess a unique combination of decision-making, leadership, and adaptability skills that make them ideal candidates for roles in this evolving field. Steve sheds light on the traits veterans should focus on developing to excel in entry-level and higher positions within Cyber, showing how their military background can be a driving force for success.

Steve also addresses the concerns veterans might have about entering a tech industry without prior experience. He discusses the companies and industries that are eager to train the right candidates, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly changing landscape.

Join us as we uncover the endless opportunities that Cyber presents for veterans and learn from Steve's expertise on how they can confidently transition from combat to the cutting-edge world of technology.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com

Links & Resources

Website: https://stevenstrattonusa.com
Follow Steve Stratton on Instagram: https://instagram.com/stevestrattonusa
Follow Steve Stratton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/strattonbooks

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

From Rescues to Resilience

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for a conversation with Justin Crane, a former rescue swimmer with a 12-year military background, including special operations missions. Justin's journey took an unexpected turn as he battled depression, substance abuse, and the feeling of being trapped in a victim mentality. However, a powerful transformation awaited him as he chose to take control of his life, embrace self-love, and rediscover his passion. Now, Justin helps others on their paths to empowerment and fulfillment.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Follow Justin Crane on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justincrane_fit/

Transcript

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Transforming Veterans’ Lives Through Fitness

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore veterans' fitness and well-being with Matt Priess, a Marine veteran and the founder of Body Ops Coaching. With a deep understanding of the toll that combat and post-deployment life can take on veterans, Matt embarked on a mission to provide personalized support and guidance in the fitness realm.

Matt's journey from his military service to founding Body Ops Coaching is a testament to his commitment to empowering fellow veterans. He seamlessly transitioned his expertise from owning and operating physical gyms to establishing a dynamic online platform that extends support to veterans far and wide. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be an opportunity to reach even more veterans in need.

Tune in to this episode to gain insights into how Body Ops Coaching is not only transforming veterans' physical fitness but also fostering holistic well-being, making a lasting impact on the lives of those who have served.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Matt Priess Body Ops on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/body_ops/
Matt Priess on Twitter: https://twitter.com/matt_priess
Matt Priess on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-priess-2709617b/
Website: https://thebodyops.com

Transcript

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Sleep Solutions for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Barry Krakow, a highly regarded sleep medicine specialist with an extensive career spanning over three decades.

One of the significant topics we address is the connection between trauma and chronic nightmares. Dr. Krakow sheds light on this link and shares valuable insights into managing and treating these distressing nightmares. We also discuss insomnia, exploring effective strategies that veterans and anyone grappling with insomnia can incorporate into their lives to achieve better sleep quality.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

Website: https://www.barrykrakowmd.com
Life Saving Sleep book: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Saving-Sleep-Horizons-Treatment/dp/0971586926

Transcript

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How Veterans Off-Grid is Changing Lives One Veteran at a Time

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this insightful conversation, we dive into the transformative journey of Ryan Timmermans, who turned his experiences as an Intel Analyst and Psychological Operations specialist in the US Army into a mission of hope. Join us as we explore how Veterans Off-Grid, the organization he founded, is revolutionizing veteran reintegration by providing housing stability, purpose, and holistic healing through sustainable eco-communities and innovative training.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

https://veteransoffgrid.org
Veterans Off Grid on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeteransOffgrid.org/
Veterans Off Grid on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteransoffgrid/
Veterans Off Grid on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Vets_Offgrid
Veterans Off Grid on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/veterans-offgrid/

Transcript

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Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Joseph Malone's life story is a remarkable journey of transformation and empowerment. From his troubled youth and a life on the streets, he took a courageous step by enlisting in the Marines, ultimately dedicating 13 years to service, including deployments to highly classified operations.

Joseph's military journey wasn't without its challenges. He faced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and PTSD, struggles that many veterans confront. However, through his determination and resilience, he found a path towards healing and recovery.

His story of transitioning from a broken state to a life of purpose serves as an inspiration to countless others.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Follow Joe Malone on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joseph_malone_official/
Follow Joe Malone on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-malone-753b10169/
Website: https://southerncross.company

Transcript

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Suicide Prevention Starts With Youth

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 08:31:00 +0000

As a military and civilian police mom, Suzi Freeman possesses a unique perspective on the impact of high-stress professions on mental health. Her determination to equip herself with knowledge in suicide prevention stemmed from her desire to support her own children in their demanding roles while also recognizing the significance of mental health in these communities.

Suzi's approach to mental wellness is holistic and multidimensional, incorporating a diverse range of modalities. Her insights as a mother of five children have provided her with valuable insights into the needs of young minds and the challenges they face in navigating life's complexities.

Through her work, Suzi aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within professions where seeking assistance might be misunderstood. Her journey of healing from childhood traumas also informs her approach to providing the support she wished she had received during her teenage years.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

Follow Suzi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzi.freeman.ceo
Follow Suzi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzifreeman
Follow Suzi on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/meetsuzifreeman
Follow Suzi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzifreeman/
Website: https://suzifreeman.com

Transcript

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Unleashing Masculine Strength Through Sobriety

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we listen to the powerful story of Kyle Perry, a USMC veteran. Kyle's journey to sobriety is a testament to his resilience and determination. After shedding an astounding 100 lbs following his decision to get sober, he has dedicated his life to helping others, particularly men and veterans, regain their strength and embrace a life of sobriety.

Kyle's mission goes beyond physical fitness; it extends to fostering a sense of masculinity that has often taken a back seat in today's discussions. His own experience with sobriety shapes his approach to guiding men and veterans through the process of regaining strength, both physically and mentally.

Join us for an enlightening conversation as Kyle Perry shares insights, strategies, and guidance for anyone seeking to embrace sobriety, unlock their strength, and thrive in both body and mind.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Follow Kyle Perry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perrys_powerhouse_fitness/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Healing from Loss and Trauma

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Tina Erwin, a retired US Navy Commander, uses her deep understanding of human behavior shaped by her military career to offer healing for veterans who often grapple with the trauma of death, loss, and PTSD. Explore how a holistic approach that blends spiritual insights, metaphysical perspectives, and psychological strategies can aid veterans in their journey to healing from trauma, grief, and PTSD.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

https://tinaerwin.com/
Follow Tina Erwin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-erwin-0a5b8919/

Transcript

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Soldier’s Best Friend’s Mission of Healing

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Mik Milem, the Executive Director of Soldier's Best Friend, joins us to discuss how his organization is on a mission to heal and transform the lives of veterans living with combat-related PTSD or TBI.

Soldier's Best Friend pairs veterans with service and therapeutic companion dogs after an extensive training process. The organization also uses rescued dogs from local shelters to help the pet overpopulation problem while offering veterans a lifeline of support and healing.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

https://soldiersbestfriend.org
Follow Soldier's Best Friend on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoldiersBestFriend/
Follow Soldier's Best Friend on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Soldiers_best_friend

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Embracing Change and Reaching New Heights

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for an insightful conversation with Veronica Karaman, a true inspiration who has transformed her athletic journey into a powerful framework for success. "The Champion's Way" is not only a mindset but a holistic approach to peak performance, touching on physical vitality, mental clarity, emotional resonance, and spiritual harmony. Veronica's belief that there's a champion within everyone carries immense relevance for those in the military, as she offers strategies to overcome obstacles and embrace change with resilience. Tune in to discover how you can activate "The Champion's Way" and unleash your highest potential.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

https://TrueChampionAcademy.com
Veronica Karaman Coaching on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veronicakaramancoaching
Follow Veronica Karaman on Instagram: https://instagram.com/veronicakaraman

Transcript

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Empowering Military Families through The Ripple Effect

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Wendy Shackley, a mother whose personal tragedy ignited a mission of hope and healing. Through The Ripple Effect, Wendy aims to reshape the narrative of veteran reintegration, inspired by her son Joel's journey through military service, PTSD, and his untimely passing. Join us as we look into Wendy's advocacy for a more comprehensive reintegration system, the critical role of peer support, and the impactful strides her nonprofit is making in honoring veterans and their families.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

https://TheRippleEffectAZ.org
Follow The Ripple Effect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therippleeffectaz

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Navigating Military and Civilian Commitments

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Ian Murray, who shares his side of the story, where he juggles military obligations and a civilian job. His story unfolds with a seemingly innocuous miscommunication that spirals into an unexpected series of events, including his arrest and a subsequent investigation. Ian shares the impact this ordeal had on his personal life, emotionally and financially. He offers valuable advice and tips for those in the Reserves and National Guard, emphasizing the significance of effective communication, documentation, and seeking legal representation.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Florida Times-Union initial report of Ian's arrest: https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/crime/2014/06/27/jso-corrections-officer-arrested-falsifying-leave-requests/15793169007/

Transcript

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Behind the Scenes of ‘Ranger’ Documentary

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for a discussion with Sean Spencer and David Waterhouse, the minds behind the documentary "Ranger." David describes both the best and worst day of his life, which happen to be the same day, the challenges of mental health, and the journey towards recovery and resilience after military service. Learn how storytelling can bridge the gap between veterans and civilians, fostering empathy and change.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Ranger Documentary on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.43aa53e8-322c-41b5-9cd1-04c618163440?ref_=imdbref_tt_wbr_pvt_aiv&tag=imdbtag_tt_wbr_pvt_aiv-20
Follow Ranger Movie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rangermovie/
Ranger Movie on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt20227356/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
Studio237 Website: https://www.studio237.net

Transcript

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Saving Lives Through Connection

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Frank Larkin discusses Warrior Call, a grassroots campaign that's transforming the lives of military personnel and veterans.

Warrior Call's mission is simple yet powerful - connecting hearts and reducing isolation through increased peer-to-peer connection. By directing individuals to life-saving resources and addressing invisible wounds, this campaign tackles the pressing issue of suicide rates among those who have served.

Frank Larkin, a veteran himself and the 40th U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms, shares his personal journey, having lost his son Ryan, a decorated Navy SEAL, to suicide. Through Warrior Call, Frank's commitment to preventing similar tragedies remains unwavering. Join us for an inspiring conversation on the impact of connection, hope, and healing.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

Website: https://warriorcall.org/
Follow Warrior Call on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warriorcallday
Follow Warrior Call on Twitter: https://twitter.com/warriorcallday
Follow Warrior Call on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/warrior-call

Transcript

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Lessons from History Honoring Japanese American WWII Heroes

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode, we dive into the pages of "American Grit," a book authored by John Suzuki that unravels the harrowing history of Japanese concentration camps in the US after Pearl Harbor. John sheds light on the challenges faced by Japanese American men who, despite facing injustices, volunteered to serve in the US military during WWII with unwavering honor and bravery. We hear about their acts of heroism that shaped the course of history. Moreover, John delves into the difficulties that Japanese American soldiers and their families encountered after the war and how their experiences highlight the importance of safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring equal rights for all citizens. Drawing lessons from history, John passionately advocates for preventing such injustices from recurring and creating a more compassionate society. Join us as we explore the resilience and valor of Japanese American veterans and their enduring impact on American history.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Website: http://www.JohnSuzuki.com
American Grit Book: https://www.amazon.com/American-Grit-Japanese-Concentration-Rises/dp/B0C6BTFHBY

Transcript

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Defending Against Health Risks

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Drawing from his book "Discovering the Nature of Longevity," Douglas Mulhall sheds light on the potential dangers posed by certain toxins and heavy metals commonly encountered by service members. Through his research, he reveals how these factors contribute to specific diseases and how innovative treatments are now available to remove harmful toxins from the body before they wreak havoc on health. Douglas emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in preserving longevity and optimizing heart health. With valuable insights for service members transitioning to civilian life, this conversation will empower both military leaders and medical professionals in supporting service members' well-being and longevity.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/

Links & Resources

Follow Douglas on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasMulhallauthor
Follow Douglas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-mulhall
Website: https://www.natureoflongevity.com

Transcript

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Patient Empowerment: A Guide for Veterans’ Health

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join physician and author Ann Hester as we discuss patient empowerment for veterans. Through her book "Patient Empowerment 101," Ann equips readers with the essential knowledge to navigate their healthcare journey at the VA and beyond. From crafting concise "elevator speeches" to communicate effectively with doctors to maintaining meticulous health records, Ann guides veterans in advocating for the care they deserve.

Ann's advice for an "elevator speech" to provide your doctor*:

Context: Describe what was going on when symptoms started.
Character: Describe the type of pain (i.e., chest pain more like heartburn or an elephant sitting on your chest).
Location: Describe in specific detail where the pain is felt ("upper right abdomen" is better than a general "stomach pain").
Severity: The 1-10 scale of your pain level. 1 = not painful 10 = the worst pain you've ever felt.
Timing: Describe how long the problem lasts when it presents itself. Does it happen for a few minutes at a time and then go away, or is it persistent?
Duration: Describe how long this problem has been bothering you.
Associated Signs and Symptoms: Other things that occur with this problem could point to the problem.
Modifying Factors: Describe things you do that improve the problem. For example, pain relievers may make a problem better temporarily. On the other hand, sitting for long periods may make the situation worse. All are relevant.

* - Hint: Copy the eight points above so you have them for future reference when you need them.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
4Patriots - use code DRIVEON for 10% off your first order: https://4Patriots.com
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/

Links & Resources

https://www.patientworld.net https://patientempowerment101.com
Follow Ann Hester on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/patientworld
Follow Ann Hester on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patientworldcourses/
Follow Ann Hester on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PatientWorldNet
Follow Ann Hester on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thepatientworld

Transcript

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Healing Veterans Holistically

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Jackie Jones is a holistic therapist with over a decade of experience in treating military service members and veterans. As a former art therapy intern at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE), Jackie developed a unique holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, soul, and space of each client, leading to profound healing on all levels. Through her art therapy and yoga programs, Jackie has witnessed significant transformations in service members and veterans dealing with PTSD, moral injury, anxiety, depression, and pain. Discover how she works to create personalized treatment plans to empower veterans on their healing journey.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
The Patriot Box: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-patriot-box/
The Hero Company: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/the-hero-company/
Monster Resume Writing Services: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/monster-resume-writing-services/
PACT Act: https://va.gov/pact
Flag Shirt: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/flag-shirt/
AmericanFlags.com: https://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/americanflags-com/

Links & Resources

FlourishMomentum.com
Follow Jackie on Instagram: https://instagram.com/flourish_momentum
Subscribe to Jackie's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JackieJones

Transcript

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Embracing Discomfort in Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us as we talk to Cristina Ramirez, a transformational coach and author of "Empowered by Discomfort." Cristina's unique approach centers around using discomfort as a path for growth, and in this episode, we specifically focus on how this philosophy applies to military veterans transitioning into civilian life. We discuss the challenges veterans may face during this period and how embracing discomfort can be a transformative tool in creating a new sense of purpose and direction. Cristina shares valuable insights and practical strategies to shift the conversation around challenges, build resilience, and confidently navigate life's transitions. If you're a veteran seeking to redefine your possibilities or anyone ready to embrace discomfort for personal growth, this episode is a must-listen.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

EmpoweredByDiscomfort.com
Follow Cristina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/triathlonmami
Follow Cristina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredbydiscomfort
Follow Cristina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/empoweredbydiscomfort/

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode. https://driveonpodcast.com/episode-311-cristina-ramirez-embracing-discomfort-in-transition-transcript/

The Power of Outdoor Therapy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of High Timber Dreams, founded by Ryan Gascon and his wife, Dehanna. From their shared love for the outdoors to their passion for supporting those who make daily sacrifices for society, Ryan and Dehanna have built a unique outdoor therapy program. Through mountain hikes, hunting, fishing, foraging, and other nature-based experiences, they aim to enhance the emotional and mental well-being of Veterans, Active Duty personnel, First Responders, and Youth. Join us as we explore the transformative power of outdoor therapy and its positive impact on the lives of these everyday heroes.

Support the Show

Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
The Patriot Box
The Hero Company
Monster Resume Writing Services
PACT Act
Flag Shirt
AmericanFlags.com

Links & Resources

HighTimberDreams.com
Follow High Timber Dreams on Instagram: https://instagram.com/hightimberdreams/
Follow High Timber Dreams on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100042412044010

Transcript

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The Rifle: Uniting Voices of Service and Sacrifice

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Join us for an insightful conversation with Andrew Biggio, Marine veteran and founder of Boston's Wounded Vet Run. Discover how his passion for World War II history ignited a mission to honor the legacy of America's Greatest Generation. Through heartfelt interviews and an inspiring book titled "The Rifle," Andrew unites voices of service and sacrifice, preserving the memories of these WWII veterans. As we discuss his return trips to Europe's battle sites, we'll learn about the impact those trips had on the WWII veterans and the younger veterans who escorted them back.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

www.theWWIIRifle.com
Follow The Rifle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theRifle_/

Transcript

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Healing PTSD with Flow State Yoga

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Dashama Gordon, best-selling author and founder of the Flow State Institute & Bright Future Foundation. Dashama shares her passion for helping humanity access the flow state and live their best lives. She discusses the importance of mental health as the number one priority for everyone, explores ways to create a fulfilling life of contribution and impact, and emphasizes the power of letting go of the past with forgiveness and gratitude. Join us as we explore the healing potential of flow state yoga, specifically in the context of healing PTSD for veterans and supporting military families. Dashama provides valuable insights, resources, and guidance on accessing healing and support through the Flow State Yoga Institute.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

Follow Dashama on Facebook: https://facebook.com/dashama
Follow Dashama on Instagram: https://instagram.com/dashama
Follow Dashama on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dashama
Follow Dashama on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/dashama
Websites: https://www.dashama.com/ https://flowstate.yoga/app/ https://flowstate.yoga/

Transcript

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Generation Z and Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Weiss, a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps, to discuss the challenges faced in military recruiting with Generation Z.

Matthew sheds light on the reasons behind the decline in service interest and proposes strategies to revitalize military recruitment. We discuss ways to reshape the appeal of military service and foster a stronger connection with the next generation.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

UncleSamBook.org
We Don't Want YOU, Uncle Sam book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDF7Z32K/

Transcript

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Angry At The Right Things Podcast

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Enhancing Safety – Lessons from a Special Forces Veteran

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

John Brewer is an Army Special Forces veteran who has dedicated his post-military career to enabling and empowering individuals in safety and security.

As the author of the upcoming book "Fight For Your Best Life," John leverages his experiences training and working alongside indigenous forces in conflict zones to equip others with the tools they need to protect themselves and others. From foundational values to knowledge acquisition and skill development, John's multidisciplinary approach offers a comprehensive guide to personal safety and self-defense.

Gain valuable insights from John's expertise and discover how to create a safer, more secure environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Armed Forces Initiative Empowering Conservationists

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Trevor Hubbs, Coordinator for the Armed Forces Initiative, shares his military background and dives into the transformative work of the initiative. Learn how the Armed Forces Initiative engages military veterans in conservation, providing them with a new mission and empowering them in their transition from military to civilian life. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the connection between outdoor experiences, community, and the well-being of our military community.

Support the Show

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Mental Health and Leadership – a Soldier’s Perspective

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Dan Joseph talks about his background, including his experience in the biotech industry and how meeting military service members inspired him to join the Army. He discusses the challenges he faced as an older recruit and the lessons he learned during his time in the military.

Dan also shares insights on leadership and resilience that he gained from his experience in the Army. He also talks about his book, "Backpack to Rucksack," and offers practical advice for anyone looking to develop leadership and resilience skills. In addition, Dan shares how his experience in martial arts has helped him develop mental toughness and respect for hierarchy.

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Timestamped Chapter Summary

Introduction to Dan Joseph and his background (00:00:00)
Dan's inspiration to join the military (00:01:00)
Dan's background and his parents' experience as refugees from Iraq (00:03:00)
Lessons learned from military service members (00:05:00)
The impact of ISIS on Dan's family and community (00:07:00)
Challenges faced as an older recruit (00:08:00)
Advice for older individuals considering military service (00:11:00)
Overview of "Backpack to Rucksack" (00:12:30)
Leadership lessons from the military (00:14:00)
Resilience and mental toughness in the military (00:16:30)
The value of practicing martial arts for military service (00:19:00)
Importance of self-awareness (00:21:00)
Building trust and effective communication (00:23:00)
The role of mentors in leadership development (00:25:30)
Lessons learned from military deployments (00:28:00)
The importance of teamwork (00:30:00)
Dan's transition from military to civilian life (00:32:30)
The impact of the lockdown on military personnel (00:34:00)
Dan's motivation for studying leadership academically (00:36:00)
The benefits of academic study for military leadership (00:38:00)
The importance of humility in leadership (00:40:00)
The role of leadership in building a positive culture (00:42:00)
The importance of building relationships in leadership (00:44:00)
The connection between leadership and mental health (00:46:00)
Dan's advice for developing leadership skills (00:48:00)
The impact of suicide on military personnel (00:49:00)
Using self-care to control the controllables (00:50:00)
The power of incremental change (00:53:00)
Dan's experience fitting in with different crowds (00:54:00)
The importance of being oneself in the military (00:56:00)
Dan's motivations for writing "Backpack to Rucksack" (01:00:00)
The importance of talking about mental health and seeking help when needed (01:02:00)
The benefits of controlling the controllables (01:04:00)

Dan shares his motivations for writing "Backpack to Rucksack," including his desire to process his own angst about the weight differential between good and bad leadership and how that can contribute to someone wanting to take their own life. Dan talks about his friend Cody, who survived a suicide attempt and wrote the intro

From Service to Success: Inspiring Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Bob Taylor shares his experiences serving in the Air Force during Operation Desert Storm and how it helped him understand the challenges that veterans face after their military career. He also talks about his struggles with PTSD and how seeking help from the VA was crucial to his recovery. Bob explains that the military training discipline shapes the mindset of veterans, and there is no training to prepare them for the transition into civilian life. He highlights the importance of seeking help, community, and support for a successful transition. Finally, Bob shares insights from his book and upcoming initiatives to help veterans and their families.

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Timestamped Chapter Summary

Introduction of Bob Taylor and his background (00:00:00)
Bob's experiences serving in the Air Force during Operation Desert Storm (00:01:00)
The challenges that veterans face after their military career (00:04:00)
Bob's struggles with PTSD and seeking help from the VA (00:04:45)
The importance of mental health and seeking help (00:08:50)
The military training discipline and its impact on veterans' mindset (00:09:00)
Tools to reshape the mindset for successful transition (00:11:00)
Bob's book "From Service to Success" and his mission to help veterans and their families (00:11:30)
The impact of COVID-19 on veterans and their mental health (00:14:30)
The importance of community and support for veterans (00:16:00)
Examples of initiatives to help veterans transition (00:17:00)
Common roadblocks and barriers that veterans face when seeking a new mission and sense of purpose (00:17:30)
The importance of determination and drive to figure out a new path (00:19:00)
Advice for veterans transitioning into civilian life (00:20:00)
The importance of self-forgiveness and healthy living habits for veterans (00:26:00)
The Patriot Promise Foundation and its mission to help veterans discover their best life (00:21:30)
The impact of military skills on civilian careers (00:33:00)
The challenge of translating military service into civilian experience (00:34:00)
The importance of HR recognizing military experience as an asset (00:35:00)
The importance of communicating leadership, drive, determination, and dedication (00:36:00)
Finding something greater than yourself that serves a purpose beyond yourself (00:39:00)
The benefit of serving others and creating a sense of purpose (00:41:00)
The impact of veterans' suicide rates (00:48:00)
How Bob Taylor's book can help veterans and their families (00:49:00)
How to find out more about Bob Taylor's book and the Patriot Promise Foundation (00:44:00)

Links & Resources

From Combat to Comeback: Overcoming Adversity

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Scott DeLuzio interviews Sylvester Jenkins III, author of "From Combat to Comeback: How to Conquer the Battles of Adversity and Avoid Letting Circumstances in Your Life Define You." Sylvester shares his journey from being a fatherless at-risk youth in Columbus, Georgia, to serving in the military and facing hardships during his deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He also talks about his struggles with PTSD, anxiety, and depression after transitioning to civilian life and how he used quarantine as an opportunity to invest in himself. Sylvester offers practical advice on how to overcome self-doubt, build a support system, take responsibility for your life, and master yourself by developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

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Timestamped Chapter Summary

Introduction: Scott DeLuzio introduces Sylvester Jenkins III and his book, "From Combat to Comeback." (0:00)
Sylvester's Background: Sylvester talks about his upbringing as a fatherless at-risk youth in Columbus, Georgia, and his struggles to find acceptance, security, identity, and purpose. (0:45)
Joining the Military: Sylvester discusses how he joined the military as a way to find a way out of his dangerous path and how he faced hardships during his deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. (2:10)
Mental Health Challenges: Sylvester shares his experiences with PTSD, anxiety, and depression after transitioning to civilian life and how he used quarantine as an opportunity to invest in himself. (3:40)
From Comeback to Comeback: Sylvester explains how he turned his pain into his purpose and how his book can help others conquer the battles of adversity. (6:00)
Overcoming Self-Doubt: Sylvester offers advice on how to overcome self-doubt and negative self-talk and how to find your purpose in life. (7:45)
Building a Support System: Sylvester talks about the importance of building a support system and how to find people who can help you on your journey. (11:00)
Taking Responsibility for Your Life: Sylvester discusses how taking responsibility for your life can help you overcome adversity and achieve your goals. (13:20)
Circumstances Don't Define You: Sylvester shares how he realized that his circumstances did not define his worth or potential for success and how he took responsibility for his own actions and mindset. (16:00)
Strategies to Fight the Enemy Inside: Sylvester shares effective strategies that have helped him on his journey to fight the enemy inside of him, including positive self-talk, building a support system, and practicing self-care. (18:30)
The Importance of Self-Awareness: Sylvester and Scott discuss the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in overcoming adversity and mastering oneself. (23:00)
Controlling the Temperature: Sylvester explains how he learned to control his emotions and remain the thermostat, not the thermometer and offers practical advice on how to master yourself and control the temperature of your emotions. (26:00)
Strategies to Overcome Setbacks: Sylvester gives practical advice on how to overcome setbacks and come back from difficult situations, including setting realistic goals, developing a growth mindset, and reframing setbacks as learning experiences. (29:00)
Quotable Takeaways: Scott and Sylvester share some of the most memorable a

Triple Nikel: Empowering Veteran Style

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Ruben Ayala, a remarkable veteran who has dedicated his life to empowering and uplifting his fellow veterans. Ruben shares his personal journey, from serving in the military to overcoming challenges and finding his purpose in helping others. With deep insights into the struggles veterans face, he offers valuable perspectives on mental health, transition, and resilience. Join us as we delve into Ruben's inspiring story, filled with courage, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of veterans. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to drive on.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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From the Battlefield to Hollywood

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Mike Dowling is a veteran and former Marine Corps dog handler who is now involved in the entertainment industry. He explains how he followed his passion into the industry and how his background in the military has been beneficial in the entertainment world. He speaks about how he was inspired by helping a wounded Marine to go to film school and how he networked with other veterans to create a support system in Los Angeles. He talks about how the entertainment industry was open to veterans with real military experience and how he was able to combine his military background with his work in entertainment.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Retired Marine Officer Shares How She Harnesses Sexy Confidence To Overcome Adversity

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Sandra Gonzalez is a retired Marine officer and a high-performance coach and speaker who helps her clients take control of their self-doubt and perfectionism.

She encourages her clients to pay attention to the subtle hints life is dropping and to listen to what is calling them, not what is clawing at them.

Sandra discusses what she refers to as "Sexy Confidence" Sexy confidence is the ability to remain calm and master oneself during stressful challenges and situations. It's a high-performance attitude that enables one to believe in themselves and take command of any room they step in.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Navy Veteran Shares Story Of Unfortunate Surgical Outcome

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Shannon Sackett is a Navy veteran who suffered an unfortunate surgical outcome, which caused her to be medically discharged. We discuss how this affected her life during and after the military and her ability to bounce back from this setback.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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From Military to Marketable: B.R.A.N.D. Before Your Resume

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Graciela Tiscareño-Sato is an Air Force veteran, award-winning author, and public speaker. Graciela has dedicated herself to coaching over 5000 veterans, service members, and professionals in developing their personal brands while transitioning from the military to the civilian world.

Tune in to learn how personal branding can make a difference in finding the job of your dreams and hear stories of veterans who have successfully transformed their resumes into powerful narratives of their value.

Links & Resources

Gracefully Global

Transcript

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Expats’ Mental Health Journey

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Shannon Miller, an Army wife and mental health expert with a passion for addressing moral injuries misdiagnosed as PTSD, joins us in this episode.

With a wealth of experience in supporting military families, Shannon shares her expertise on the unique challenges they face. From discussing the distinction between PTSD and moral injury to exploring the impact of trauma on military families, she offers invaluable guidance.

Shannon also sheds light on the role of therapy in providing support, coping strategies for stressful situations, and the importance of community in the lives of veterans and their families. Drawing from her own experiences as an American expat living in multiple countries, she delves into the impact of living abroad on mental health and provides practical advice for navigating cultural differences.

Join us as we dive into the complexities of military life and learn how to maximize the unique experiences of military families and expats alike.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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From Navy to Tech Innovator

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Terence Bennett, a Navy veteran, talks about his journey into the tech world. Join us as we delve into Terrence's transition from military service to running a successful software company. Gain insights into his experiences as a Naval Intelligence Officer and as a member of Google. Discover how Terence's company, DreamFactory Software, is now solving complex integration problems with its API code automation platform. Listen in as Terence shares valuable advice for veterans considering a career in tech and how he continues to support the military community through his work. Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with inspiring stories and practical takeaways.

Links & Resources

Follow Terence on LinkedIn

Transcript

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Navigating the VA Healthcare System: Tips and Resources

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

This episode of Drive On discusses navigating VA healthcare as a veteran. The VA healthcare system is the largest integrated healthcare system in the US, with over 9 million veterans enrolled. For many veterans, navigating the VA healthcare system can be challenging and overwhelming.

In this episode, we cover:

Understanding the VA Healthcare System, the different types of healthcare services available to veterans, and tips for choosing a primary care provider and scheduling appointments.
Resources available to help veterans navigate the VA healthcare system and information on how to apply for VA healthcare benefits.
Exploring MyHealtheVet.
Mental health resources.

Links & Resources

MyHealtheVet
VA Healthcare - eligibility and application for benefits.

Transcript

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Caring for Military Children

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, our guest Nicole Thompson, an Air Force veteran and trauma-informed educator, sheds light on the unique struggles military children face. From frequent moves and parental deployments to navigating trauma and healthcare systems, Nicole shares valuable insights and practical strategies to support the well-being and academic success of these resilient young individuals. Join us as we delve into the world of military children and discover ways to empower them for a brighter future.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Announcing A New Format

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Starting next week, the podcast will be available in its audio format and airing on WTSMTV in the Phoenix area and streaming online at WTSMTV.com. This is a great way to expand the podcast's reach and take the conversations to a larger audience. The new format will provide veterans with more accessibility to the show and more opportunities for engagement. This will help the show positively impact veterans on a larger scale and serve the veteran community in the best way possible.

WTSMTV.com is an online television platform local to the Phoenix area but offers content that appeals to people nationwide. It is an accessible platform, allowing viewers to watch whatever they want, whenever they want. It provides a variety of content, including health, business, sports, and general interest shows.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Special Memorial Day Episode

Scott DeLuzio — Mon, 29 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this special Memorial Day episode, we delve into the rich history and significance of this solemn holiday. Join us as we explore the origins of Memorial Day, tracing its roots back to the aftermath of the American Civil War and the establishment of Decoration Day. Learn about the evolution of this commemorative day into a nationally recognized observance and a federal holiday.

We also take a closer look at the distinctions between Memorial Day and Veteran's Day, understanding the unique purposes and meanings behind each occasion. Discover the profound significance of honoring the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

We explore the concept of Gold Star Families, delving into the experiences and challenges faced by those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. We gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and strength exhibited by these families, as well as the importance of acknowledging and supporting them.

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Michelle Axmaker is a former zookeeper and currently works with Warriors Heart to train service dogs for veterans and first responders. She gained experience training and caring for exotic animals at Bush Gardens in Tampa, Florida, and then at the Lackland Air Force Base at their military working dog center.

Michelle discusses the importance of service dogs for people with PTSD and the unique training necessary for each individual's needs. Each person's PTSD symptoms differ, and the dogs are trained to recognize the individual's specific triggers and respond accordingly. It is important for the individual who is going to be handling the dog involved in the training process, as the dog must be familiar with the triggers of that particular individual.

The Warriors Heart K9 program provides the opportunity to purchase a Service or ESA K9 through the Academy program. Each Warriors Heart dog is trained to become an Emotional Support Animal or a Service Animal so that the client can travel with, house, and utilize the dog within ADA compliance.

For clients not interested in becoming a Handler, the K9 Experience program is a more therapeutic approach. You can learn about obedience training, participate in weekly Classroom presentations, go on Nature Hikes, and simply enjoy spending time with the canine Warriors.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Dealing with Guilt and Shame: Coping Strategies for Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 04 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Providing advice and strategies for managing feelings of guilt and shame related to military service or civilian life.

Introduction
- Why do veterans experience guilt and shame?
- How can guilt and shame affect a veteran's mental health?
Common Sources of Guilt and Shame in Veterans
- Combat-related experiences
- Moral injury
- Survivor's guilt
- Trauma outside of combat
Addressing Shame's Link to Suicidal Ideation
- VA Studies
Coping Strategies for Managing Guilt and Shame
- Acceptance and self-compassion
- Mindfulness practices
- Seeking professional help
Conclusion
- Guilt and shame are common - you're not alone.
- Wherever guilt and shame come from, there is help.

Links & Resources

VA Mindfulness Coach App

Transcript

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Canadian Vet Talks Fitness And Helping Veterans Become Harder To Kill

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Dave Morrow, a Canadian veteran shares his own experience as a reservist and how he struggled to get back to normal after hurting his back and knee. He found that taking pain pills was only a temporary solution and that he had to make a lifestyle change to get harder to kill.

This led to his mission of helping other veterans lose weight and get more fit.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Finding Purpose Through Entrepreneurship

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Examining the potential benefits of entrepreneurship as a means of finding purpose and meaning after military service.

Introduction
Benefits of Entrepreneurship
- Discuss the potential benefits of entrepreneurship, such as:
Challenges of Entrepreneurship
- Challenges of entrepreneurship, such as:
  - Financial risks and uncertainties.
  - Long hours and hard work are required to build a successful business.
  - Need for a solid business plan and understanding of market demands.
  - Importance of building a support network.
  - Strategies for overcoming these challenges
Resources and Support
- Resources and support available for veterans who want to pursue entrepreneurship, such as:
  - Small Business Administration (SBA) programs and resources.
  - Veteran Entrepreneur Portal (VEP) through the VA
  - VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) programs.
  - Nonprofit organizations and community resources.
- Highlight the importance of networking and seeking out support to achieve success.
Conclusion
- Summary of the potential benefits of entrepreneurship for veterans seeking purpose and meaning.
- Encouragement for listeners to explore entrepreneurship as a viable option and to seek out resources and support to help them along the way.

Links & Resources

SBA: https://www.sba.gov/about-sba/sba-locations/headquarters-offices/office-veterans-business-development
Veteran Entrepreneur Portal: https://www.va.gov/osdbu/entrepreneur/
Vets First Verification Program: https://www.va.gov/OSDBU/verification/index.asp

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Alternative Therapies for PTSD Treatment

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we look at alternative therapies for PTSD, such as art therapy, equine therapy, and adventure therapy.

Outline:

Introduction
- Explanation of what PTSD is
- Overview of traditional treatments for PTSD
- Introduction to alternative therapies for PTSD treatment
Art therapy for PTSD treatment
- Definition of art therapy
- How art therapy can be used as a treatment for PTSD
Equine therapy for PTSD treatment
- Definition of equine therapy
- How equine therapy can be used as a treatment for PTSD
- Where to access equine therapy
Adventure therapy for PTSD treatment
- Definition of adventure therapy
- How adventure therapy can be used as a treatment for PTSD
- Where to access adventure therapy
Conclusion
- Recap of the topics covered in the episode
- Final thoughts on the potential benefits of alternative therapies for PTSD treatment
- Encouragement for listeners to explore different options for PTSD treatment and to seek professional help when needed.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Combat Veteran on Overcoming Adversity And Achieving Career Success

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Jason Pike served 31 years in the US Army, starting as a private and working his way up to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Jason shared his story of starting from the bottom and working hard to reach his goals.

He faced a federal investigation for espionage against the US government. He was accused of selling secrets to foreign nationals but was ultimately found innocent. He talks about how he managed the stress of this situation by leaning on his family and friends and seeking professional counseling.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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The Role of Family in Supporting Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 08:00:00 +0000

This is the first of hopefully many episodes where I take time to dive deep into a particular topic. This time it's the role of the family to support veterans.

Outline:

Introduction
- Brief explanation of the importance of family support for veterans
- Overview of the topics that will be covered in the episode
The impact of military service on veterans and their families
- Discussion on the unique challenges that veterans and their families face
- Common mental health issues experienced by veterans and how it affects their family relationships
- The impact of deployment and separation on family dynamics
The importance of family support for veterans
- Research studies that demonstrate the benefits of family support for veterans
- Discussion on how family support can aid in the recovery and reintegration process for veterans
Strategies for families to support their veteran loved ones
- Advice on how to communicate with veterans who may be struggling
- Tips on how to provide emotional support for veterans
- Discussion on resources available for families to help them support their veteran loved ones
Challenges families face when supporting veterans and how to overcome them
- Common challenges that families may face when supporting veterans
- Advice on how families can take care of themselves while supporting their loved ones
Conclusion
- Recap of the topics covered in the episode
- Final thoughts on the importance of family support for veterans
- Encouragement for families to seek help and support when needed.

Links & Resources

VA's Coaching Into Care Program

This episode talks about how we can manage stress and anxiety, the rigors of military and veteran life, and how Dr. White's book can help.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Naval Academy Friends Reflect On Friendship And Business

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

David Gutierrez and Stu Grazier met while attending the Naval Academy and have stayed close ever since. Stu and David were stationed apart for most of their careers in the Navy except when they were both stationed in Naples, Italy. Around this time, they started to discuss their plans for the future and decided to go into business together, focusing on real estate investments.

They emphasize the importance of choosing partners and friends wisely and also celebrating each other's successes. They were very intentional about formalizing their business partnership. They spent a lot of time discussing core values and what should be done in various situations, such as if a deal does not appraise or if either of them have an opportunity too good to pass up and the business has to dissolve. They also discussed how to separate their friendship from the business and continue to have conversations to ensure they are both bringing their best selves to their relationship.

They emphasized the importance of having these conversations before officially entering any business partnership. Comparing it to getting married, where you need to know what the other person wants and have a plan for any contingencies.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Overcoming Problematic Drinking With Sinclair Method

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Brian Noonan joins us to discuss the Sinclair Method, which is a method of treating alcoholism involving Naltrexone, a prescription medication, and alcohol.

The method was developed by Dr. Sinclair, who conducted studies with rodents by creating alcoholic mice and giving them Naltrexone. His findings showed that the only way to extinguish the interest in drinking was to combine the tablet with alcohol. Subsequent studies found that those who did not follow instructions and drank still saw a limit on their binge drinking and relapses. This method has become increasingly popular and is used as a way to treat alcoholism more effectively.

Brian discussed how alcohol treatment works and how it is linked to releasing endorphins or naturally-occurring opioids. He explained that when someone takes Naltrexone an hour before drinking, it blocks the release of these endorphins, and the person doesn't get the reward or buzz they would normally get when drinking. This type of behavior is known as operant conditioning and is a process that increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring if it is rewarded.

Links & Resources

SinclairMethod.org

Transcript

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Spiritual Guidance To Veterans and First Responders

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

John Jones is a retired federal law enforcement officer and Navy Hospital Corman. He wrote a book, A Higher Calling, which offers first responders, veterans, and military personnel a biblical guide to their demanding work.

John has both military and law enforcement experience, which has given him a unique point of view and perspective that he has used to write his book. He wrote the book to provide a source of guidance for people who have gone through difficult experiences in their lives. The book provides biblical guidance and advice that can be used to help those who are struggling to find a way to heal and move on.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Combat Veteran Finds Positive Path Out Of PTSD And Early Childhood Trauma

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Clinton Dye is a four-tour Marine Corps combat veteran who struggled with PTSD from not only his deployments but also his early childhood. He was present when his mother shot his father in a drunken rage, which is one of many traumas he had to deal with growing up. He struggled to avoid the lure of drugs, alcohol, and crime, which were all common in his environment. He believes that his early childhood trauma helped him function better than many of his colleagues who suffered from PTSD and took their own lives. The hardships he experienced during his childhood helped him to cope with the intense stress of combat. He could handle the long hours, limited resources, and lack of outlets due to the hardening he had experienced early on. By having a strong foundation from his childhood, he was better able to handle the stress of the military. While he could push through it at the time, the trauma he experienced in the military later caught up to him, and he had to work to manage those traumas. He began using alcohol and other substances to cope with his stress but quickly realized it was an unhealthy coping mechanism. He finally realized that something needed to change and began to work on managing his emotions and traumas in a healthier way. In this episode, we'll talk about how Clinton believes everyone can work towards a better life and what he's doing now to help others in the same situation he was in not too long ago.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Exploring the Cause and Treatment of Negative Thoughts

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Betsy Holmberg is a psychologist who has focused on various topics, including self-injury and suicide. She is currently focused on the tribal brain, an interesting topic. Betsy has a Ph.D. from Duke and has conducted and published research at Harvard. She also ran the mental health service line for McKinsey and Company. After her husband left her, she had suicidal thoughts and struggled for years after. This led her to discover the neuroscience of thinking and why we think negatively, which shifted her perception of herself and how people interact with each other.

Betsy has had a major shift in her mental health after her discovery. She wants to share her newfound understanding of the neuroscience behind why people think negative thoughts.

There are two thought networks: the Central Executive Network (CEO brain) and the Tribal Brain (Default Mode).

The CEO brain is used for problem-solving and when focused on a task.
The Tribal Brain is the network used to form and live in clans. This network started hundreds of thousands of years ago when humans lived in clans and helped them form bonds and survive.

Our conversation covers the different ways in which our brains think to keep us safe. It talks about the importance of identifying who is in the clan and who is a threat, the hierarchies and roles that exist within the clan, and empathy. It is mentioned that these thoughts are automatic, and people often mistakenly shape their lives around them, thinking that they will make them happy. It is further explained that this is due to the caveman days when they needed to be the fastest and strongest to survive. Our conversation concludes by suggesting that life can improve by dismissing these thoughts.

Our conversation discussed how to stop listening to the tribal brain. It is as simple as identifying the voice and stopping it, but if the tribal brain is persistent, it can lead to severe depression. In these cases, it is important to reach out to family and friends and talk about what one is going through to reduce the feeling of isolation.

Links & Resources

Transcript

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Navy Veteran on Overcoming PTSD and Helping Fellow Vets

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Daniel Mayberry is a Navy veteran who has struggled with PTSD and started a podcast whose mission is to help other veterans in need.

Daniel Mayberry joined the Navy at 17, shortly after the 9/11 attacks. His first ship was small, and there was not much to do. He was getting into trouble, and two senior chiefs asked him what he wanted from his service. He wanted to serve the country, and they pointed him to the job of Corpsman.

After returning from deployment, Daniel noticed something was off. He would go out to the bars and blackout, often ending up miles away with no recollection of how he got there. Daniel talks about this experience and how he's now helping other veterans with 1 Mile 1 Veteran.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Veterans Have the Skills for Starting a Franchise Business

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Stacey Marmolejo is the founder and CEO of Franchise Prep Academy, which helps soon-to-retire military personnel navigate the franchise industry so that they can evaluate if a franchise career is right for them in their next step after the military.

Stacey comes from a family of 10 military generations serving 176 years collectively. Although her parents were Disheartened when she did not join the military, she knew she'd either be in the brig or kicked out quickly if she did. So, she climbed the corporate ladder and eventually became a senior vice president of a national company. It was then that she decided to quit and buy a startup franchise. She had three locations over 16 years and sold them for seven figures. She then decided to retire.

Stacey Marmolejo was retired for two days before becoming bored and starting to help people look at franchises. She believes franchises are a great business model, especially for people with work experience but not necessarily business ownership experience.

In the conversation, Scott and Stacey discuss the pros and cons of starting a business from scratch versus buying a franchise.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Bouncing Back After Transitioning Careers

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Melody Clouds

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Project Refit

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Dan Lombard is an Army combat veteran who is a co-founder of Project Refit, which is working to change the negative connotation around getting mental health support. In this episode, we discuss Project Refit and all they do to help support the military, veteran, and first responder communities.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Trauma Informed Care

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we're joined by Elizabeth Power, the founder of The Trauma-Informed Academy and a passionate advocate for helping people cope with traumatic experiences. Elizabeth will share her own story of overcoming trauma and how she developed The Trauma-Informed Academy to empower others to do the same. She'll provide us with some practical tips and resources to help us support those who have experienced trauma.

Tune in to learn more about recognizing and supporting individuals on their journey of healing.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Continuing to Serve After Medical Retirement

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Alex Gonzales is a retired Army Colonel who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and suffers from a traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite his struggles, he continues to serve his fellow veterans by sending daily devotional messages and by always being available when those veterans need someone to talk to.

In this episode, Alex shares his story of resilience, courage, and overcoming adversity while providing practical advice and guidance on how to navigate the struggles of being a veteran. Join us as we explore Alex's journey and learn how we can all make a difference in the lives of our fellow veterans.

Links & Resources

Text 254-368-8527 to receive Alex's daily devotional messages

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Natalie Shand-Spellman, Coach Nat earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Stony Brook University, New York. Coach Nat is an occupational therapist clinician, a Boot Camp for Life transformational coach, speaker, published author, and combat marine veteran.

Coach Nat has dealt with lost identity, brokenness, emotional turmoil, and ill health because of unmanaged stress. She later discovered a top transformative technique called "purpose-cising" to deal with mental, emotional, and spiritual stress. She also found Life's Unwritten Formula for Success, the different Narrative Functional Identity Types, and NEW STARTS FOR ME lifestyle principles for peak performance and function in life.

View the transcript for this episode.

Optimizing Your Health

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Despite the fact that 60% of American adults have 1 chronic disease and 40% have 2 or more, there is much that can be done to ensure that you live long, feel great and live well. Many of the lifestyle modifications are free or low cost and therefore, have not received sufficient attention.

Emily Gold Mears is a former attorney who shifted her advocacy efforts to seek information on optimizing health through research analysis in science and medicine. In this episode we talk about sleep issues, reducing exposures to toxins, and other ways we can improve our health.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How to Be a Mentor After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Christine Van Horn is an author, teacher, and speaker. She has been a Certified Emergency Manager for 30 years and recently retired. She is now applying her emergency management experience to focus on character in society. Dr. Van Horn has written two books for older children to teach them character through the eyes of a superhero. In this episode, she discusses how veterans and service members can use their experiences to mentor those in our lives who may not be in the military.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Helping Build Resilience in Military Kids

Combat to College

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

John Davis is the author of the book Combat to College. Before joining the Army, John tried going to college, but it didn't quite work out for him. After his time in the military, he learned grit, perseverance, and discipline needed to excel in college. He now has a Master's degree from Harvard.

In addition to being an author, John has worked to help other veterans transition from their military career to college.

Headaches
Nausea/vomiting
Fatigue/drowsiness
Inner ear issues/dizziness/sensitivity to sound/ringing in the ears
Difficulty paying attention
Visual difficulties (blurred vision, sensitivity to light)
Memory problems
Mood changes
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual

In this episode, we discussed ways to optimize brain health regardless of whether or not you've experienced a brain injury:

Nutrition: Eating macronutrients, foods with fiber (i.e. fruits and veggies), and Omega-3 (i.e. fish, flaxseed, fish oil)
Movement: You don't need to be doing PT like you were 19 all over again. Focus on keeping the blood moving in your body. Walk your dog - Fido will love you for it!
Social interaction: Get quality social interactions where you feel that people know you. Church groups, VFW/American Legion, or other interest groups.
Sleep: You have to recharge the battery.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

PACT Act and Veteran Legal Resources

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Joanna Morales discusses the PACT Act and other legal resources available to veterans who have been diagnosed with cancer and other illnesses.

Links & Resources

Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer on Twitter: @TriageCancer
Triage Cancer on Instagram: @triagecancer
Triage Cancer on Facebook: Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer on LinkedIn: Triage Cancer
Joanna Morales on Twitter: @cancerrights
Joanna Morales on LinkedIn: Joanna Morales

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How to Successfully Navigate Life After Deployment

Childhood Trauma and Beliefs as Key to Your Healing Now

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Do you ever ask yourself, "Why am I doing this again"? The childhood vows you made as the result of powerful personal experiences during your pre-logical young life govern you as an adult until you explore and address each of these decisions.

Army veteran Kathi Sohn shares how childhood trauma can appear unexpectedly when dealing with trauma later on in life.

The Body Memory Process is a refreshing shift away from the popular temptation to blame adult limitations and failures on our parents and society by putting the power and process to change in your hands!

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship After The Military

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Dustin Hayes, the owner of Red White and Badass Brew, discusses the ups and downs of becoming an entrepreneur after the military.

After several setbacks, Dustin found that working for himself, while a lot of work, has tremendous benefits. He discusses those benefits and the path that led him to create Red White and Badass Brew.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Epilepsy Awareness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

My wife, Vicki DeLuzio, joins the podcast to discuss how epilepsy and how it affects those who, like her, have developed it later in life.

In this episode, we talk about:

What epilepsy is and its possible causes.
How and why epilepsy affects veterans at a higher rate than civilians.
Limitations those with epilepsy may face.
How epilepsy is treated.
What you should do if someone around you is having a seizure.
The role of service dogs in helping those with epilepsy.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How Holistic Medicine Can Treat What The VA Can’t

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Erica Steele discusses how her work in holistic medicine helps veterans fill in the gaps that the VA leaves in their health care.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

WP Connects

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Talisha Lewallen discusses how veterans and transitioning service members can get started in the WordPress industry through WP Connects.

For listeners unfamiliar with WordPress, it is a website management system that currently powers nearly half of the websites on the internet. It can be used for everything from running a simple personal or business site, blogging, e-commerce, podcasting, and so much more. Jobs in the WordPress industry include software developers, graphic designers, SEO, project managers, content writers, and just about anything else you can think of that goes into running a website.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How To Stop Self-Sabotage

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

View the transcript for this episode.

Defining Moral Injury

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 08:58:00 +0000

Dr. Timothy Shaw discusses his research into moral injury, how it impacts the lives of veterans, and what we can do to help. We dive into the veteran suicide crisis, and what role moral injuries play in that. We can do things as a society to help reduce the impact of moral injuries. We discuss some of those things and more in this episode.

Links & Resources

GreatPhilosophicalProblems.com

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Finding Your Passion After Military Service

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 08:00:00 +0000

USMC veteran, David Richards, discusses how he followed his passion for writing after leaving the military and how you can find your purpose at other stages in life.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Starting Conversations About Mental Health

How to Take a Break From Alcohol

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Kirsten Chalmers is a psychologist and the founder of Point Zero Cellars, where she works to raise awareness for those looking to take a break from alcohol. While her company is based out of Australia, and the majority of our listeners are in the US, in my opinion, the message she has knows no borders.

Links & Resources

Point Zero Cellars
Alcohol-Free Options

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Prevention Over Prescription

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Dr. Thomas Hemingway MD is a holistic and integrative Medical Doctor who lives and shares his personal and professional philosophy of PREVENTION over PRESCRIPTION and is passionate about sharing the message of Natural Health and Healing through Powerful Practices which are simple, doable, AND can be LIFE-SAVING. He has the goal of saving 100 million lives by optimizing health and wellness through natural means. He has recently written a book, "PREVENTABLE! 5 Powerful Practices to Avoid Disease and Build Unshakeable Health" which is due out this year. He also loves sharing this message in his top-rated health podcast "Modern Medicine Movement" where he is known for distilling down the latest medical knowledge and science into easily digestible and actionable steps which can change our lives in the present AND the future.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Healing Family Trauma

Veteran Readjustment Culture

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Mike Kim is a psychoanalyst/ex-monk, research writer, and retired Veterans Affairs Vet Center site director. His research at Columbia University developing his original theory of "Veteran Readjustment Culture" has recently been presented at the University of North Texas. Mike's work he has advocated for vets and their families since the early 1990's. He has over 20,000 clinical hours in war trauma therapy. He first joined the military in 1986 and has intermittently served since 2009. He is a graduate of Norwich Military College of Vermont, Yale University, and the Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma. Google "Mike Kim Veteran" to have access to Mike's articles, academic presentations, other media info, etc. He will also be podcasting with Coming Home Well.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Millennial Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Jenna Carlton is a Navy veteran who started the Facebook Group, The Millennial Veterans, where younger veterans can share issues facing them.

You can find Jenna weekly on Sundays at 9 PM Eastern on her Instagram Live series, Vet Chats. Check out the link to her Instagram below.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Making Connections to Help Navigate Difficult Times

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet discusses the highs and lows he's experienced in his personal and professional life, and how he was able to lean on others to help support him through difficult times.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Successful Career Transition After The Military

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Brandi Saunders talks about her time in the Air Force, her deployments in support of OEF and OIF, and how she successfully transitioned into a new career after leaving the military.

During her time in the military, Brandi served as a Critical Care Medical Technician. After leaving the military, she now works as a CPA at a national accounting firm. She is also helping work to ensure that other veterans have the same opportunities that she had by helping create a pipeline for recent veterans to transition into the accounting profession.

Links & Resources

Connect with Brandi Saunders on LinkedIn

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Creating Your Future Through Forgiveness

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

Rediscovering Yourself After Loss

How to End Anxiety with Hypnotherapy

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000

For people who had a difficult childhood, half of what we think of as anxiety is often leftover emotional stress from what happened to us as a child. Mahesh Grossman explains how hypnotherapy can help with a wide variety of physical and emotional pain.

Links & Resources

Anxiety123.com

How leaders can be more effective in taking care of the troops they lead.
Characteristics of a good leader.
Toxic leadership traits.
Being vulnerable as a leader, and setting a good example.
Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
EOD Marine Gunnery Sergeant Burghardt's "one-finger salute" and leadership lessons from walking off an IED blast.

Links & Resources

LoveAndInspiration.org

Don't Waste This Storm book on Amazon

Unresolved trauma or disturbing events and experiences from your past may be interfering with your ability to function at your highest level. These experiences may limit your ability to regulate your mood, focus, or connect with others in a healthy, loving and safe way. A chronically dysregulated and imbalanced nervous system can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, addictions, or even chronic illnesses such as auto-immune disorders, thyroid problems, cardiac and gastrointestinal diseases, and even, cancer. TIPP, TIPP KIDS, and the NOWW program are designed to help reset the mind and restore the body to optimal states of health, performance, and wellness.

Links & Resources

Transcript

View the transcript for this episode.

How iRest Can Help Pain, Sleep, Depression, Anxiety, & PTSD

Pushing Outside Your Comfort Zone

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

View the transcript for this episode.

Discovering Your Own Path

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Wayne Shipman served in the Army in the '90s and found himself homeless years after leaving the Army. He considered ending it all when he decided he had to discover his own path in life. In this episode, Wayne shares how he felt disconnected from other people in his life, which drove him away from them. He also shares how he ultimately got himself off of the streets.

Links & Resources

Wayne Shipman on Facebook
Wayne Shipman on Instagram
Wayne Shipman on YouTube
Other episodes referenced in this episode:
- Overcome the Enemy Inside You
- Camouflaged Sisters

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community. Whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or family member, this podcast will share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. And now let's get on with the show. Hey, everybody, welcome back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Wayne Shipman. Wayne is an army veteran who wound up living outdoors as a homeless man in 2005. While he was living outdoors, he had to face the realities of his homelessness, divorce, bad parenting, drug use, and his own mental health condition, which led him on a path of sobriety and ultimately ended, his time living on the streets. I want to welcome Wayne to the show. Welcome, Wayne. Thanks for joining me.

Wayne Shipman 00:01:01 Scott is really great to be here talking to you. I've heard a lot of your content and you got me hooked.

Scott DeLuzio 00:01:08 Oh, awesome. That's great. I went over a little bit of your background, but could you give us a little kind of an overview of your background? What led you to join the military and what happened to you in that situation when you're in the military?

Wayne Shipman 00:01:28 Yeah, that's kind of a long story. It's something I got to shave the ice and just kind of give you the shavings of it, because it's just, it goes on and on and on its layers of things that kind of led up to the situations that I was in. I was a homeless guy and I was on dope and given up frankly. The message that I'm trying to bring, I'm trying to give you the end game. You don't have to spend 15 minutes figuring out why I'm telling you this story after all of my disappointments and things that I experienced after the military, trying to adjust to civilian life. I pretty much encountered shame. And a lot of disgrace that I carried with me because I didn't make it in the military.

Wayne Shipman 00:02:21 I failed. I ended up getting kicked out about six months early from my end of service. And that hurt me over the years. I'm trying to kind of reach out to soldiers. Former military that had similar experiences. I went into the military looking for some kind of golden ticket to be respected by my family and members. My family members growing up as in the post-World War II era, a lot of my grandma, my uncles. They had pictures on their walls of military people. And some of them were from the Vietnam era. I was the first grandson out of six daughters in the family. All eyes were on me, and through the years I heard it all. E

Maintaining Healthy Military and Veteran Relationships

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Elizabeth Polinsky is a marriage counselor for military and veteran families, and the host of The Communicate & Connect Podcast for Military Relationships. In this episode, we talk about maintaining healthy military families.

Links & Resources

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast, where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community. Whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or family member, this podcast will share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio, and now let's get on with the show. Hey, everybody, welcome back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Elizabeth Polinsky. Elizabeth is a marriage counselor in the Norfolk Virginia area, and she's also the host of the communicate and connect podcast for military relationships. In this episode, we're going to talk about military families and relationships, and how they are affected by military service and after the military service and once when we become veterans. Welcome to the show, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth Polinsky 00:00:55 Thank you. I'm excited to be here.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:57 Thanks. Why don't you give us a little bit about yourself, your background, and a little bit about what you do?

Elizabeth Polinsky 00:01:05 Gosh, where to start. I guess I get lots of questions about things like what led me to start focusing really on couples counseling with military couples. And that is pretty much what I do. I guess that's the real short of it is that I'm a marriage counselor and I work mostly with military and veteran couples, but both my parents were a dual military couple and they ended up getting divorced and that was part of, just like the challenges that they faced with military life. My mom got out of the military and then my dad stayed in and he actually retired from the Navy and he struggled a lot in relationships. That was something that was always on my mind. Then I started working for the department of veterans affairs.

Elizabeth Polinsky 00:02:03 I used to do a lot of individual and group counseling for the VA. I was one of the only providers who did a type of therapy called cognitive processing therapy for PTSD. also did a lot of work around sexual trauma. One of the things that stood out to me when I was working at the VA was that even though I had a lot of I was working with veterans around mental health. There was depression, anxiety, traumatic events type stuff going on. But a lot of them would tell me stories about things that had happened in their romantic relationships. They would tell me that was the most painful part of their experience, or that was one of the hardest, that's not quite how you say that. Most hard is not the right phrasing, but one of the hardest parts about their experiences with them, with all of their military experiences, was the pain that had happened in their romantic relationships.

Elizabeth Polinsky 00:03:09 When I moved to Norfolk, my husband is Navy. I'm a military spouse. When we got stationed here, I decided I wanted to switch to doing couples

Developing Grit

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

David Fivecoat spent 24 years in the Army including tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. He now runs The Fivecoat Consulting Group, which helps develop gritty leaders. In this episode, he discusses how to develop personal grit.

Links & Resources

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community, whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or a family member, this podcast will share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. Now let's get on with the show. Hey everybody, welcome back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is David Fivecoat. David served 24 years as a US Army Paratrooper as well as four combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. And since leaving the army, he founded the Fivecoat Consulting Group where he helps develop gritty leaders. David is also the author of the book, Grow Your Grit, and he's here today to talk about developing personal grit. Welcome to the show, David.

David Fivecoat 00:00:52 Thank you for having me on, I'm excited about this. I've listened to several of your podcasts and I really appreciate you having me on.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:59 I'm glad you were able to make it on the show and come on and share your information as well because I think, the gritty side of things is something that's important. I think we all have the potential in us to have that gritty side of us come out. But it's just a matter of tapping into that. I think your experience with what you do now will be a good help there. But before we get into that, why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background? I know you and I both were in Afghanistan around the same time. I'd love to hear a little bit about where you were and what you did over there. And then we could talk a little bit about that for a few minutes.

David Fivecoat 00:01:39 A little bit about me. I grew up in Ohio, no military sort of background in the family, but decided to go to West Point because I loved reading military history and of course, all the World War II generals had attended West Point. It was really a good fit when it came time to apply to colleges. That's how I ended up at West Point and throughout my army career, I was always of the sort of mind that. I'll stick around in the army until it stops being fun. Every couple of years, when it started to look like it wasn't going to be fun, there'd be a new job or a new challenge or something.

David Fivecoat 00:02:24 And that kept me going., I did 24 years in the army. I was commissioned as an infantry officer. Along the way, I had the opportunity to serve in Kosovo Bosnia, three trips to Iraq, and a trip to Afghanistan. My final job in the army was I ran the army's airborne school and ranger school. While I had the oversight of ranger school, we actually led the gender integration of ranger school. For your listeners that aren't familiar with ranger school: ranger school is the Army's premier small-unit leadership school. It's been in existence since 1952. There's about 80 or 90,000 graduates. Up until 2015, those graduates were all male. In 2015, we tried to run a pilot program. 19 women came to ranger school and three women were the first three women to earn the ranger tab. That was a pivotal part of the Army's decision to open all jobs and all unit

Learning How To Live Your Best Life

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Jessica Jaber is a USMC veteran who served in Iraq. She joins us to discuss her experiences, and how she's worked to live her best life after returning home.

Links & Resources

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast, where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community. Whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or a family member, this podcast will share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio, and now let's get on with the show. Hey, everybody welcome back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Jessica Jaber. She was a Marine Corps veteran and she served in Iraq as a truck driver. And she had some experiences over there that she's coming on to share with us and share with us how she has transitioned since coming back and all the things that she has kind of gone through. So, welcome to the show, Jessica.

Jessica Jaber 00:00:53 Thank you, Scott.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:55 Yeah, absolutely. I'm excited. We talked a little bit earlier today. Just a little bit of background on your story for the people who are listening to this. And so, we kind of dug in a little bit to your story and I'd like to kind of start from the beginning and talk about how you joined the Marine Corps and how you got into that, and what those early days were like when you first joined.

Jessica Jaber 00:01:21 Yeah. I'll just jump right in. So again, thanks for having me, Scott. This is really exciting. So I was 18 when I joined the Marine Corps, and I joined on a dare. I didn't come from a family of military brothers or, or parents or grandparents. And so for me to join the Marine Corps it was out of the norm, so a really good friend of mine. He joined the Marine Corps, came back and his, his dress blues, came out with a group of friends and I just said, out of the blue, what would you, what would you say if I joined the Marine Corps? And he's like, oh, no way. We just did this, we just did this crucible, we just did this. And he said I don't think you would be able to do it. And so that was on a Friday night and then Monday I was in the recruiter's office signing up. So this is how I joined the Marine Corps. It wasn't a lifelong dream of mine.

Scott DeLuzio 00:02:36 I like that story because let's just do it and why not? And it's for a good cause, serving your country. At the time, did you have any career expectations or college expectations in your future? Or was it something where you were 18 and were kind of like, I don't really know what's going on with my life and this sounds better than the alternatives is that? Was that kinda like that?

Jessica Jaber 00:03:07 Exactly what it was. I wasn't that interested in going to school anymore.. It didn't really have any passions and so I'm like, yeah, Marines let's do it.

Scott DeLuzio 00:03:18 Right. It's a good career path, in the military you can learn a lot of things. You can get a skill that you can translate to the civilian world later on, if that's something that you're interested in. When we talked earlier, you didn't really have any career path in mind with the Marine Corps. You just kind of said, put me where you need

Transition On Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Dennis Volpe spent over 20 years as a Naval Officer, he's the best-selling author of Transition on Purpose, and the founder of the Severn River Leadership Group, which is committed to the development of veteran and first responder-owned small businesses.

Links & Resources

The Professional Certified Coach: dennis-volpe.com
The Book: www.transitiononpurpose.com
The Leadership Research Institute: www.lri.com
Severn River Leadership Group: www.severnriverleadershipgroup.com
Dennis Volpe on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/djvolpe/
Team RWB: www.teamrwb.org
Team Rubicon: teamrubiconusa.org
The Mission Continues: www.missioncontinues.org
American Corporate Partners Veteran Mentor Program: www.acp-usa.org/mentoring-program
The Commit Foundation: www.commitfoundation.org
Camp Resilience: www.camp-resilience.org
Camp Southern Ground: www.campsouthernground.org/veteran-programs
Creati Vets: creativets.org/programs/songwriting/

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast, where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community, whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or family member, this podcast we'll share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host Scott DeLuzio, and now let's get on with the show. Everybody welcome back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Brett Currier. Brett's organization. VetGigs is an online talent marketplace that connects veterans with employers seeking to hire them as skilled professionals, service freelancers. Brett's here today to talk about his career in the military, his transition out of the military and how VetGigs came to be, and how it's helping out veterans. So welcome to the show, Brett.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into the Drive On Podcast, where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community. Whether you're a veteran, active duty, guard, reserve, or family member, this podcast will share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. And now let's get on with the show. Everybody, today my guest is William Hollingsworth. William is an army veteran and he and his wife, Jessica are the authors of the book All 48 Drive Your Dreams, which is a story of how they started off as a struggle. As struggling young parents and overcame the obstacles that came along with that. They now use their book to reach other people, wanting to pursue their goals and their dreams. So welcome to the show, William, why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

William Hollingworth 00:00:54 Hey, thank you very much, Scott. I appreciate being here. It's an honor for me. So essentially our story is a I always feel a little corny saying it, but it's a self-help and somewhat inspirational guide story where we started off as teen parents, only 16 years old facing bringing a child into the world, trying to just struggle to make ends meet and finish high school. From there. I ended up joining the military, the United States Army as a medic from 2012 to 2016. I deployed, from 2014 to 2015, got out with, as everyone does with a plan of how I'm going to kick ass once, once my term's over and no one's telling me what to do anymore. And, when I got out, I found myself in a kind of a stagnant place in life.

William Hollingworth 00:01:45 I think a lot of veterans face that you're using your GI bill to go to school, but you just, things aren't as the past, not as clear as you think they are. And, I ended up kind of where most people do where you look around. You're like, nothing's really going on for me. This is kind of where the stagnant place gave me an opportunity to try launch change. My wife started traveling, Just a low-budget road trip. We didn't know what we were doing. We didn't have any kind of guide. We didn't have anyone really lean on for it. And, next thing we know we're making these long drives, from Texas where we live San Antonio all the way down to California and coming back and we do this one journey and realize it's changed us.

William Hollingworth 00:02:33 And it's something kind of neat. And this was the stepping stone to kind of getting my life on a whole new path, literally and figuratively, where we started doing these long road trips, and seeing the world, and experiencing different cultures. And it compounded into something that helped lead us towards success and lead us towards having a, just a better drive for life and a bigger goal. From there. I ended up finishing two degrees. Push forward in gaining better positions, traveling internationally at the end of it, none of it was ever with the intention to write a book or, or market anything. It ended up being just part of our identity and

Emotional Freedom Through Tapping

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Lauren Fonvielle helps veterans overcome symptoms of stress, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, physical pain, and more through the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as "tapping".

Lauren describes tapping as being similar to acupuncture without the needles. In acupuncture, as in tapping, the idea is to re-balance the flow of energy through your body.

Links & Resources

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into a Drive On Podcast where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community, whether you're a veteran active duty guard reserve or family member, this podcast we'll share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. And now let's get on with the show. Everybody will come back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Lauren Fonvielle. Lauren is a military spouse and specializes in helping others alleviate their stress, anxiety, and trauma through a technique called emotional freedom technique. Welcome to the show, Lauren.

Lauren Fonvielle 00:00:41 I'm so excited to be here and talk with you.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:43 Yeah, absolutely. So why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself and a little bit about what you do?

Lauren Fonvielle 00:00:49 Sure. Yeah. So, like you said, I am a military spouse and I specialize in EFT. It's also referred to as tapping. I have used it personally in my journey with anxiety and stress and it has been so helpful to me that I felt called to go on to get trained, to share it with others. And particularly sharing it with military folk is important to me as I am a Navy wife. And I know how stressful it can be. And I was actually introduced to EFT shortly before my, my husband's most recent deployment. And, I am credited with helping me get through that tough time.

Scott DeLuzio 00:01:37 That's really cool. I'm glad that, first of all, glad that you found this technique for yourself to kind of make the process a little bit easier for you and kind of alleviate your own anxiety. But could you tell us how you got into doing this and, and how you found out about it and, how you, how you discovered it kind of everything that was going on then?

Lauren Fonvielle 00:02:02 Yeah, so we found out that my husband was going to have to deploy. He's in the reserves now. So it came as a little bit of a surprise. I wasn't anticipating it. So it kind of came out of nowhere and the anxiety really set in because at the time I had two young kids and just the brain started circling and all the thoughts started going. And so for me, when I start to feel really anxious and overwhelmed, I typically will find myself in a yoga class and that's exactly what happened. So I was in this yoga class and I happened to see a poster, a flyer for yoga teacher training. And that was my first step on this journey as I signed up for yoga teacher training. I don't know what happened that day, but it was like calling this push that I had to do this.

Lauren Fonvielle 00:02:53 And it started the weekend after my husband left for deployment. I didn't know how I was logistically going to make it happen, being that my family was far away, but I knew that I had to do it. So I signed

Overcoming Tragedy

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Tripp Bodenheimer is currently serving in the US Air Force and is also the host of The Shadows Podcast. In this episode, we talk about tragedies encountered in Tripp's childhood and how they shaped who he is and what he does today.

Links & Resources

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into a Drive On Podcast where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community, whether you're a veteran active duty guard reserve or family member, this podcast we'll share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. And now let's get on with the show. Everybody will come back to the Drive On Podcast. Today, my guest is Tripp Bodenheimer.Tripp is currently serving in the US Air Force and is also the host of the Shadows podcast. We're going to talk about Tripp's childhood and how it shaped who he is and what he does today. So welcome to the show Tripp.

Tripp Bodenheimer 00:00:40 I Appreciate you having me.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:42 Hey yeah, absolutely. I'm glad to have you. Why don't you tell the audience people who may or may not know who you are and may not be familiar with you and your podcast, tell a little bit about who you are and everything.

Tripp Bodenheimer 00:00:56 Yeah. So, who I am, currently I am, a little past 12 years in the United States Air Force. I came in as a calm guy, working on computers, joined a little bit later, joined at 29. So I got a little bit of real-world experience under my belt and then decided to join the military. I was stationed in Arizona, went to Germany for six years, which was the best six years of my life. And while I was over there, they asked me if I wanted to be a part of what the Air Force calls, developmental special duty program or DSD, and basically being an instructor for young airmen and getting them ready to supervise. And I did that for three years. Loved it. And just, I was myself, I wasn't playing the role of an instructor or anything.

Tripp Bodenheimer 00:01:43 It was just me and that landed me a spot in the Alabama fair off Germany at Alabama. I ended up moving over here with my family and I am now the instructor for the instructors. So I teach all enlisted professional military education instructors in the Air Force. When they get picked up in the DSD process, they come through our course and we teach them, basically the fundamentals of how to teach questioning techniques, active listening. Non-verbals verbals mean all that stuff such as multitasking and time management. So yeah, and then I'm married. I've been married to my wife for 14 years. two daughters, my youngest daughter, 13 still lives with us here in Alabama. And, that's a pretty important part of who I am. And then, like you said, the Shadows Podcast, which has been around now for we're looking at, almost a year and a half, which is crazy. Because, as well as I do, like it's, there's a lot that goes into podcasts. And so to be hanging around that, that long is a kind of, self high-five, I guess.

Scott DeLuzio 00:02:53 You definitely deserve a high five for that because there's some podcasts. What

The MisFitNation

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Gold Star Widow Talks About Sacrifice

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The Protectors

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Military Veteran Dads

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Freedom Alliance

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Stop, Breathe, Think, Act

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Helping Veterans Tell Their Story and Jiu Jitsu

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Transforming Service to Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Paul Lawrence is an Army veteran and also served as the Under Secretary of Benefits at the VA. During his time with the VA, he worked to streamline the bureaucracy to help veterans get the benefits they apply for quickly and accurately.

Links & Resources

Paul Lawrence on LinkedIn

Transcript

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:00 Thanks for tuning into a Drive on Podcast where we're focused on giving hope and strength to the entire military community, whether you're a veteran active duty guard reserve, or family member, this podcast we'll share inspirational stories and resources that are useful to you. I'm your host, Scott DeLuzio. And now let's get on with the show.

Scott DeLuzio 00:00:22 Everybody welcome back to the Drive On Podcast today. My guest is Paul Lawrence. Paul is an Army veteran and also served as the Undersecretary of Benefits at the Department of Veterans Affairs. During his time with the VA, he worked to streamline the bureaucracy to help veterans get the benefits that they apply for, quickly and accurately., Paul is also the author of the book, Transforming Service to Veterans. In this episode, we're going to talk about Paul's time at the VA and how he's helped veterans along the way, and as well as a little bit about his book at the end. So, welcome to the show, Paul, why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

Paul Lawrence 00:01:01 Hey, thanks, Scott. Thanks for having me with you. Yeah. it's an interesting story. I grew up in an army family. My father was a career military officer in the army. He was in the Signal Corps. We moved all around the world during the cold war thing, lived in Europe a couple times back and forth, and I was actually born in Japan. I left after a year, so I don't remember anything of it. So basically it seemed natural that I would join ROTC when I was in college. I did, I joined army ROTC. I delayed my going in so I could go on and get my PhD in economics at Virginia Tech. And then I went into the army. So I did my three years. I completed my ROTC requirement. I got out and then I moved to Washington and became a consultant to the government, primarily working in accounting firms, consulting to the government.

Paul Lawrence 00:01:50 And so that's where I was. When someone said, Hey, you should apply for this cool job at the VA. And that's how I became the undersecretary of your benefits. I would definitely say being a veteran and being in a military family really kind of informed my thinking and really, while it wasn't all my life, it was a significant part of my life. And some of the things I still remember, my father taught me and I still remember, I think about all the time, that was some of the things that led me to want to serve.

Scott DeLuzio 00:02:16 And I think it's important to coming from a military background to kind of have that understanding of what is important to, to the veterans and having that in, in your family history, in living the military life, moving from one base to another and moving all over the world, you kind of get a sense for that probably from an early age, where some other people who may not have had that experience, they wouldn't have been able to experience that in and wouldn't have that understanding necessarily of what it's like, to be in the military, and part of a military family, especially

Paul Lawrence 00:02:54 Right. And to move, to live in foreign countries where they don't speak English, where you can learn different languages and see the whole kind

StoryTime Project

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Warrior Monk – Living a Balanced Life

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Gold Star Mother & America’s Mighty Warriors

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Wrestling To Help PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:59:00 +0000

The Soldier’s Guide to PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Veteran Product Marketplace Apex Gear

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Connecting With Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Tribute to Wes: Burn Pits and Cancer

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Military Service Vaccine Injuries

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Camouflaged Sisters

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Battlefields To Ballfields

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

From Mogadishu to a Hard Rock Band

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Repurpose Yourself After The Military

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Overcome the Enemy Inside You

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Hold My Guns Suicide Prevention

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The Enduring Campaign Helping Homeless Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Special Ops Vet and Signs of PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Surviving Son

Scott DeLuzio — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:11:00 +0000

What Happens Behind the Therapy Door

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000

A Rocky Transition and Choosing to Change Course

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Dual Military Couple on Mental Health and Deployments

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Having The Right Attitude – and a Giveaway Contest!

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Women Veterans Alliance

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Combating Veteran Homelessness and Suicide

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Australian Veteran on PTSD, Trauma, and Grief

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Get Your Story Out There

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Finding Purpose and The French Foreign Legion

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Importance of Telling Your Story

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Re4ormed

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

American Savage

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The Hurricane Within

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Warriors Ethos

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Blue Star Academy

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Post Military Education and Becoming an Entrepreneur

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Ruck ‘N’ Run

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Proudly She Served

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Episode 100

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Transitioning and Camaraderie

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Bottled Away Sharing a Veteran’s Story

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Oath to Country Foundation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Price Of Freedom Foundation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Make Veterans Great Again

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 08:00:00 +0000

VA Disability Benefits

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Lucky Break

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Another Average Joe

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Helping CPL Thae Ohu

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Art After Combat

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 08:00:00 +0000

GI Resupply

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 08:00:00 +0000

The Voice of Leadership

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Military Transitions To A Post Military Career

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Claymore Vets

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Ghosts Of The Valley

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0000

VetPark

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Breaking Barriers

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Real Talk Saves A Rocky Military Transition

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

MyMilitaryBenefits.com

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Recorded Live: Sharing Your Story [Veterans Day 2020]

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Deployment Stresses and Leadership Lessons From A Navy Seal

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 08:00:53 +0000

Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Finding Purpose

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 08:00:49 +0000

Preventing Burnout

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 08:00:02 +0000

Veterans Day

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Succeeding In A Post Military Career

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 08:00:36 +0000

Operation Freelance

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 08:00:35 +0000

Burden of Command & Drive On Collaboration

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 08:00:07 +0000

The Catalyst

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 08:00:29 +0000

Mental Resilience & Physical Fitness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 08:00:29 +0000

Rescue to Recovery

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 08:00:02 +0000

Vitanya Brain Performance

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Magical Order of Brave Knights

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

G. I. Low

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

The Veteran Professional

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0000

10 Year Anniversary

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Kruse Corner

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Wellness for Vets

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Heroic Gardens

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0000

The Spouse Angle

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Choosing To Find The Good

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Tango Alpha Lima

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0000

How Fisher House Supports The Military Community

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Power of Sharing Your Story

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Ironman Gold Star Initiative

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Veteran Entrepreneurs

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Hope And Healing For The Veteran Community

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Serve Something Bigger Than Yourself

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Helping Veterans and the Community

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Memorial Day

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Perfectly Hidden Depression

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Fortitude

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 May 2020 08:00:00 +0000

What the American Legion is All About

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Healing Through Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Leave No Marriage Behind

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Confident Couples and Strong Relationships

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Physical Isolation Not Social Isolation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

The World Isn’t Ending

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Living a Successful and Formidable Life

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Reinventing Your Career Path

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Knowing Your Core Values

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Happy Birthday Steve

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Having an Operational Mindset

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Helping Others Find Their Passion

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Drug Rehab For Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Cultural Differences and Rebuilding a Nation

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 08:00:11 +0000

Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Loss of Identity After 17 Years of Service

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Helping Veterans With Dr. Sherry Walling

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Year End Recap and Looking for Feedback

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Christmas Eve Episode Handling The Holidays

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Dec 2019 08:00:00 +0000

PTSDog Service Dogs For Vets With PTSD

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 08:00:37 +0000

Overcoming Mental Health Hurdles After Combat

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 08:00:21 +0000

Army Mom on Post Traumatic Stress and Suicide

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Being Your Own Advocate And Other Lessons Learned From Depression

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 08:00:03 +0000

Soldier And Educator On Resiliency

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 19 Nov 2019 08:00:24 +0000

Marine Corps Veteran On Not Being Afraid To Fail

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 12 Nov 2019 08:00:55 +0000

Soldier, Military Spouse, And Mother On Deployments With A Newborn

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 08:00:54 +0000

Finding Purpose Through Yoga And Music

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 29 Oct 2019 08:00:38 +0000

The VFW – Not Your Grandpa’s Drinking Club

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 08:00:54 +0000

Using The Outdoors as a Healthier Coping Mechanism

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 08:00:38 +0000

Healing Through Artwork

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 08:00:16 +0000

Gold Star Father On Giving Back To Veterans

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 08:00:02 +0000

From Homeless Veteran to Successful Business Owner

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 08:00:17 +0000

Reflections of a Gold Star Mother

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:00:17 +0000

Managing Your Iceberg

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 08:00:41 +0000

Reminiscing about SGT Steven DeLuzio and Bubble Gum

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 08:00:25 +0000

Burn Pits, the VA, and Keeping a Positive Attitude

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 11:02:05 +0000

Honoring The Sacrifice of SGT Steven DeLuzio

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 11:36:25 +0000

Air Force Veteran Turned Veteran Advocate

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 13 Aug 2019 11:07:46 +0000

A Gold Star Brother on Loss and Legacy

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 11:43:07 +0000

A Military Spouse’s Point of View on Parenting and Deployment

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 30 Jul 2019 11:06:52 +0000

Call for Guests

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 11:48:38 +0000

Call for guests is now open!

I'm looking for veterans, family members of veterans, and others who have something to share with our audience. You have your own unique experiences and we want to hear from you.

Visit https://driveonpodcast.com/guests/ for more information.

Help Others By Helping Yourself

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:26:44 +0000

Dealing With Pain

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:09:23 +0000

Veterans Succeeding as Entrepreneurs

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 11:04:16 +0000

Keeping Your Cool by Being Prepared

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 10:47:20 +0000

Communication

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 18 Jun 2019 11:00:37 +0000

From the episode:

It's funny how we sometimes expect that other people will know exactly what we're thinking. We also assume that we know exactly what other people are thinking.

Think about when you were in the military. Every aspect of a mission was communicated from the officers down to the lower enlisted. Everyone knew what the objective of the mission was. While you could probably get the mission done with just the higher ranking soldiers knowing the full plan, the lower enlisted soldiers would likely start making assumptions about what needed to be done to accomplish what they assumed was the overall objective.

The same goes for communication in other areas of your life. Talking with your spouse, kids, neighbors, friends, or co-workers all require the same degree of attention.

Dealing With Civilian Pettiness

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 23:49:05 +0000

It seems like people complain about everything from getting a coffee order wrong to it being too hot or cold outside. While complaining about these things isn't something new, it is something we often times see as an annoyance.

But what if we reframed our thinking? What if we looked at these complaints as if we've done our jobs right?

Preparing For A Civilian Career

Scott DeLuzio — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 20:05:20 +0000

When we get out of the military we aren't always as prepared as we think we are for applying to a civilian job.

In this episode we talk about:

How to figure out what job you'd be good at.
Where to get the skills or qualifications you might need for a new career.
What employers are looking for in a potential employee.
How to narrow your focus in your job search rather than using a "shotgun" approach.
How to "talk up" your military experience. Even mundane things like paperwork and urinalysis testing can be spun in a positive manner.
When to start applying for jobs.
Where and how to network with potential peers and employers.

Intro to Drive On Podcast

Scott DeLuzio — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 21:01:50 +0000

Welcome to Episode 0 of the Drive On Podcast! In this episode, I will introduce myself and the show, discuss the types of content we'll cover on the show and who this podcast is for. There are so many different topics that veterans struggle with, and I want to help out with as many of them as I possibly can.