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

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 Get...

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 i...

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 Miss...

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 stres...

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 veter...

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 posth...

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...

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 tr...

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...

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 0...

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,...

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...

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 bu...

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 Enforcem...

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 s...

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 Introductio...

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 yo...

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 v...

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 & Crisi...

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...

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 V...

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 improv...

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 :...

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...

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 thei...