Beyond The Frontline

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna sits down with Jonathan Knaul, a Canadian Armed Forces veteran, test pilot, materials engineering PhD, author, and devoted caregiver. Jonathan shares his remarkable journey from a decorated military career to becoming the primary caregiver for his aging parents, both survivors of the Holocaust and World War II. Donna and Jonathan explore the emo...

Donna welcomes Doug Lynam, whose extraordinary journey spans service in the U.S. Marine Corps, monastic life, and a successful career as a money manager and author. Doug shares his story of rebelling against materialism, taking a vow of poverty, and ultimately discovering purpose in helping others achieve financial literacy and well-being. From lessons in mindfulness to practical money management...

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, host  Donna Hoffmeyer  sits down with  Dr. Charlie Powell,  a decorated  Navy veteran, trauma surgeon, innovator, and mental health advocate  to explore his extraordinary path from military service to medical entrepreneurship and personal healing. Dr. Powell opens up about his  battle with PTSD , offering rare insight into the experience of  high-functio...

Season 4 is here!   Host  Donna Hoffmeyer  opens with a personal reflection on her journey from service to storytelling. She shares lessons on family, creative renewal, and the importance of taking breaks to recharge. This season, you’ll hear inspiring stories from veterans, first responders, and advocates who are reshaping what healing and community look like. Expect conversations that highlight...

In this enlightening episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna welcomes Megan Andros from the Heinz Endowments for a powerful conversation on the challenges and opportunities veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. As a veteran and thought leader in veteran philanthropy, Megan brings a wealth of experience and research to the table. Together, they explore: The role of soft skills in...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna Hoffmeyer sits down with Thomas LaGrave, a Veteran and the passionate founder of Honor Bound Academy. Together, they dive into a powerful and moving conversation about the importance of mentorship—especially for youth impacted by the absence of parental figures due to military service, incarceration, or other life challenges. Thomas opens up abo...

In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna welcomes Ryan Woodruff, a combat veteran and the CEO of Clear Path for Veterans. Together, they explore the life-changing role service dogs play in the lives of veterans, offering comfort, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose. Ryan opens up about his personal journey from military service to leading a nonprofit organization de...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline , Donna is joined by Sharron Stewart, a proud Army veteran and passionate advocate with the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). Sharron opens up about her own journey transitioning from military to civilian life and offers valuable insights into the wide range of resources available to Texas veterans. From benefits and education to employment and mental health...

In this episode Donna welcomes Patrick Trujillo, a Marine Corps veteran and current team member at the Warrior Scholar Project. Patrick opens up about his own transition from military to civilian life, highlighting the unique educational challenges veterans often face after service. He shares his personal journey, including the pivotal moment he connected with the Warrior Scholar Project, a nonpro...

In this episode, Donna welcomes Marine James Eastland, a man on a mission to make a difference. James is gearing up for the Transamerica Non-stop bike ride, a grueling 8,300-mile journey across the country to raise funds and awareness for the Transition Warrior Foundation , a supporting veterans and first responders. Donna and James dive deep into the “why” behind his ride, the physical and mental...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline , Donna sits down with active duty Army veteran Anthony Peterson to share a deeply moving and inspiring conversation about loss, healing, and resilience. Anthony opens up about his military journey, the emotional burden of service, and the heartbreak of losing close friends to suicide. In response to his personal struggles and grief, Anthony founded Flags to...

In this powerful episode of Beyond the Frontline , Donna sits down with Stephanie Gattas, a founding member of the Pink Berets and a passionate advocate for women veterans. Together, they tackle some of the most urgent issues facing the veteran community today, including military sexual trauma , veteran suicide , and the crucial role of legislative advocacy in creating systemic change. Stephanie s...

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna Hoffmeyer sits down with Dale Mullin, a devoted veteran and the visionary founder behind Warrior Homes of Collier . Together, they shine a light on one of the most urgent issues facing our veteran community today: homelessness. Dale opens up about his personal journey, transitioning from a successful logistics career to la...

In this episode, Donna sits down with Chris Carroll , the inspiring founder of CWR Warriors , a nonprofit organization that’s changing the game for veterans—one race at a time. Chris shares the powerful story behind CWR Warriors and how his own journey led him to create a space where veterans can find purpose, camaraderie, and healing through the adrenaline-filled world of racing. From the challen...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline , host Donna sits down with U.S. Army veteran and Save Our Allies co-founder, Nick Palmisciano, for a compelling conversation about life after service. From the battlefield to the entertainment industry, Nick shares his journey of transition, the challenges of civilian life, and the drive to find new purpose. As a New York Times best-selling author, filmmake...

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring parallel narratives of military veterans returning home from their tours of duty and multiple myeloma patients facing their relentless battles for survival. We explore both groups' challenges, including emotional, mental, and physical struggles, as they strive for healing and remission. Join us as we highlight the collaboration between Coming Home Well...

Donna welcomes veteran Lucas Predmore to discuss CHAMP VA, a vital healthcare program for veteran families. Lucas shares his journey from Army service to founding ValorWell,org which addresses mental health care gaps for veterans. Key Topics: Understanding CHAMP VA and veteran family healthcare. Lucas Predmore’s transition to mental health advocacy. Challenges in accessing veteran healthcare. How...

Donna speaks with Victor Colon, a 26-year Army veteran and ambassador for Ryder. They discuss the Pathway Home program, a 12-week initiative designed to help veterans transition into civilian careers by providing essential training in mechanics and heavy-duty electrical systems. Victor shares his journey from military service to becoming a technical trainer, the challenges faced during the transit...

Donna welcomes Karen Unrue, a British advocate and former combat medic, to discuss her journey through complex PTSD and the importance of thriving despite trauma. Karen shares her inspiring story of overcoming an abusive marriage, her experience in the military, and how she transitioned into mental health advocacy. Together, they explore the nuances of trauma, the significance of trauma-informed t...

Donna delves into the challenging topic of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) with special guest Stephanie Gattas, founder and CEO of The Pink Berets. Discover Stephanie's inspiring journey from Navy corpsman to leading a transformative organization dedicated to supporting women veterans through holistic healing approaches. Learn about the unique programs offered by The Pink Berets, including equine the...

Donna Hoffmeier explores into the fascinating world of epigenetics and its impact on trauma transmission. Joined by developmental psychologist and UCLA lecturer Bonnie Goff, they explore how trauma is not only passed behaviorally but also genetically across generations. Discover the science behind epigenetic changes, the stress response, and how interventions like neurofeedback and mindfulness can...

Donna explores the unique partnership between former Navy SEAL Rob Sarver and New York City corporate lawyer Alex Gendzier. Discover how these two individuals from vastly different backgrounds came together to address the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life. Learn about their co-authored book, "Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey," which serve...

Donna sits down with Elizabeth Long from Fidelis Homes to discuss the pressing issue of veteran homelessness. Elizabeth shares her insights on real estate's role in alleviating homelessness among veterans and highlights the importance of education and support networks. Discover how realtors can make a difference and learn about programs like Homes for Heroes and Operation Stand Down. Tune in for a...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline Donna explores into the challenges and innovations in rural healthcare. Discover how Dr. Ron Moody, Chief Medical Officer at Accenture Federal Services and an Army veteran, is leveraging virtual-first strategies to enhance healthcare access. From the importance of patient-centric care to the transformative potential of telehealth technologies, this episode e...

In this episode, Donna continues her engaging series with Elizabeth Long, a dedicated realtor from Exit Realty's Fidelis Homes. Elizabeth is pioneering a unique division focused on serving veterans, teachers, and first responders. Join us as we dive into essential tips for realtors working with veterans, including understanding VA loans, building networks with veteran organizations, and fostering...