Beyond The Frontline

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...

Donna explores the intersection of land ownership and veteran support with Darren Fitzgerald from the Texas Veteran Land Board. Discover how the board assists veterans in acquiring land, homes, and home improvements at reduced rates, and learn about their comprehensive services including skilled nursing facilities and cemeteries. Darren shares insights into the board's history, its collaboration w...

Join Donna Hoffmeyer in this episode of Beyond the Frontline as she navigates the complexities of home ownership for Veterans. Discover insightful tips from expert realtor Elizabeth Long, who offers invaluable advice on VA loans, market trends, and choosing the right realtor. Whether you're buying your first home or seeking to understand your VA benefits better, this episode is packed with essenti...

In this episode of Beyond the Frontline, Donna sits down with Daniel Belew, a Marine Veteran who has transformed his life experiences into a mission to help others. Discover Daniel's inspiring journey from a homeless teen to a successful Marine and now the founder of RescueResidence.org, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding Veterans experiencing homelessness. Daniel shares his unique perspective on ove...

Join us for the kickoff the new season of Beyond the Frontline with Donna Hoffmeyer! In this episode, Donna sits down with Cindy Thompson, Executive Director of Coming Home Well, to discuss the journey of the organization, the transition from radio to podcasting, and the exciting new developments for 2024. Cindy shares her passion for supporting Veterans and first responders, and Donna reflects on...

In this episode of "Beyond the Frontline," Donna and Jay discuss the intricacies of transitioning from military service to civilian life. They speak to the challenges and triumphs of growing a business, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice. From navigating the pitfalls of rapid growth to the importance of organic development, Donna and Jay offer valuable insights for veterans and aspiri...

Donna and Jay welcome Jim Ravella, Senior Vice President of Programs at the Gary Sinise Foundation . Jim shares his journey from being an F-15 pilot in the US Air Force to his impactful work in the nonprofit sector. They discuss the diverse needs of Veterans, the importance of capturing the legacy of World War II Veterans, and the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. Jim als...

Donna goes solo and engages in a conversation with Dave Peterson, a retired One-Star General and the current Executive Vice President of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. Discover the nuances of high-level transition, the value of networking, and the myriad ways the Chamber can be a catalyst for business growth and community engagement. Tune in for a blend of personal stories, expert advice, an...

In this episode Donna taps into a topic we often shy away from: the intersection of mortality and legacy. She welcomes Danny Brooks, a second-generation funeral director whose mission goes beyond the somber trappings of death to celebrate life in its final farewell. Danny, hailing from Brooks Funeral Home in San Antonio, brings a refreshing perspective to coping with the inevitable, offering insig...

Jay Johnson is flying solo in this episode to bring you a conversation with the remarkable Louie Guzmann, a 22-year Air Force Veteran, a beacon of hope in the nonprofit sector. As a former Community Investment Partner at the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation , and now Director of Sponsorships and Development for San Antonio Sports . Louie shares his journey from his humble beginnings, through a tran...

Send us a Text Message. Special guest Pete Werner, a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and current Council President for the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) in Tennessee, joins Donna and Jay in this episode as they explore the pivotal role MOAA plays in advocating for veterans' rights on Capitol Hill. Pete shares stirring stories of MOAA's achievements, including the fight to pr...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, Donna flies solo with special guest Arlene Patterson, a veteran of the NYPD and a seasoned traveler who has transitioned from the frontlines to exploring the world's serene destinations. Arlene shares her insights on ideal travel spots that cater to the unique needs of Veterans and First Responders, favoring the peaceful embrace of less crowded beaches, qua...

Embark on a journey beyond the military with Donna and Jay as they dip into the world of whiskey distilling with Army Logistics Colonel Darren Bowser. In this episode of Beyond the Frontline, Darren shares his extraordinary transition from a 37-year military career to mastering the art of whiskey making. Discover how he leveraged his military skills in logistics to navigate the intricate processes...

Thinking about being on a Board of Directors? Trying to find the best people to be on your board? Check in with Donna and Jay on today's episode as they talk with Bruce Thompson, a Marine Corps Veteran, and advisor to many nonprofits. Learn about what you should be looking for in a board member, understand the roles and responsibilities of being a board member, how to be an effective board member,...

Anna Larson is a woman who wears many hats. As an expert on the military spouse transition as they cross over from active duty to civilian life. It is her mission to create opportunities for connection, support, and provide resources for milspouses going through the retirement process. Anna also co-host the 15{ish} Minute Coffee Chat - a small business/entrepreneur livestream and podcast where Ann...

Joining Donna and Jay today is Ralph "Gable" Crowder, a former Navy Command Master Chief, currently serves as the Director of Community Engagement at @bigmentorsa . Gable is extremely well versed in identifying principals of leadership, motivation, empowerment, personnel management, strategic planning, and training. Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com Downlo...

What do you do when you have two vivacious guys with Parkinsons, and one witty best friend/ex-corporate lawyer? You start a podcast! Donna has the absolute pleasure to be joined by Veterans Ivan Brown and Rick Schena along with their moderator and friend Patrick Feenhan to chat about their new radio show on CHW Streaming Radio...Let's Talk Parkinson's & Other Things. Find out what Rick is dete...

Donna is joined by Jeff Guinn, founder of Eagle Rest Reserve, to talk about their mission to provide outdoor and artistic restoration activities for veterans, first responders, healthcare and other public servants and their families. Jeff Guinn has been working with groups for several years teaching vets how to tie fly’s and fly fish and he and his team schedule trips on Lake Whitney in Texas. Lin...

Donna and Jay reflect on some of the most memorable interviews of 2023 and touch on what is new for 2024. Tune in to find out about the Brand New CHW Streaming Radio channel launching in February and some of the amazing upcoming guests on Beyond The Frontline. Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com Download on Apple Play and Google Play Online-Therapy.com ~ Lif...

Today's episode isn't just another story—it's a narrative of transformation and triumph with Carnell Smith Jr., or as he's known, Sgt WarDawg. His journey is a mirror to the many soldiers who return home to battles of a different kind—battles with PTSD, with reintegration, with finding a new mission in civilian life. His words are a beacon for the lost, as he passionately discusses his life's new...

In this episode, Major (ret.) Teddy Colegate joins Donna to talk about his extensive military career, from airborne jumps to the White House, and unveils the birth of Heroes Outreach , his lifeline to fellow veterans. This decorated Marine shares the essence of camaraderie in the face of adversity and the power of support networks during the pivotal shift from active duty to civilian life.  An enl...

Commander Mark C. Russell joins us on BTFL to expose the harsh realities of mental healthcare with the military. A former Marine turned psychologist; Mark shares his insights into the historical patterns of neglecting lessons from past wars. This episode will shatter preconceived notions and reframe your understanding of mental health in the military. Tune in to understand why mental health care i...

Join Donna in welcoming Saul Paul, a musician with a message and a Grammy-nominated producer and artist. Saul’s music has not only made him a household name but a vehicle for empowerment. He shares with Donna his journey from foster care and prison to success.  Today Saul is actively involved in his projects of Be the Change campaign and Change Water, his alkaline water company. This episode is a...

Donna introduces you to her long-time friend, Tim Gagnon, who has an incredible journey from the military to an artistic career. Together they unpack the therapeutic value of art and shine a spotlight on the Patriot Art Foundation , an organization dedicated to providing free art classes and supplies to veterans. So, join us on this journey of art, healing, and camaraderie. Trust me, you don't wan...

On today's episode, we had an engaging conversation with a Veteran Service Officer, Mike Wyatt. We uncovered the layers of the PACT Act, a game-changer that expands VA healthcare and benefits to veterans exposed to burn pits, agent orange, and other toxic substances.  Mike explores the significance of documenting these toxic exposures for future claims and the crucial role of clear communication w...