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

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...

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 greate...

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 addicti...

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 a...

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...

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 struc...

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...

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...

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,' wh...

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 int...

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 progr...

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 transi...

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 foundatio...

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...

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 oth...

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 fro...

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 c...

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 S...

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 possib...

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://...

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 plac...

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...

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 veter...

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 multifacete...

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 th...