USA Cares Podcast

Retired Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón “CZ” Colón-López joins the USA Cares Podcast for a powerful conversation about service, sacrifice, leadership, and life after the military. A decorated U.S. Air Force Pararescueman and Special Operations veteran, CZ served more than three decades in uniform and rose to become the highest-ranking enlisted service member in the United States Arme...

On this powerful episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we are joined by two incredible leaders and veterans — Sgt. Maj. Timothy L. Metheny and Sgt. Maj. William Johnson Jr., Regional Manager for Merging Vets and Players (MVP). Together, they dive deep into the realities of military service, leadership under pressure, the transition from active duty to civilian life, and the importance of finding purpo...

In this powerful episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we sit down with Mark Pfeifer, founder of Wigglewow, for a conversation that blends service, sacrifice, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Mark shares heartfelt stories from his and his wife’s journey in the military—offering a raw and personal look at the challenges, transitions, and values shaped by their service. But the story doesn’t stop th...

On this episode of the USA Cares Podcast , we sit down with Jay Franze and his wife Monica France for a powerful conversation about commitment, resilience, and walking with purpose. Jay shares the story behind his incredible milestone — 5 million steps — and the mission that fueled every single one of them. What started as a physical challenge became something much deeper: a statement of persevera...

In this powerful episode of USA Cares , we sit down with Purple Heart recipient Joseph Bates to share a story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Joseph opens up about his military service, the life-changing moments that earned him the Purple Heart, and the challenges he faced transitioning beyond the battlefield. His journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance...

Join USA Cares as we sit down with Captain Marj Graves , retired U.S. Army nurse, to explore her remarkable journey of service, compassion, and resilience. From caring for wounded soldiers to navigating the emotional weight of military medicine, Capt. Graves shares powerful stories that illuminate the often unseen heroism of military nurses. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to those who serve—n...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we welcome Heather French Henry — longtime veterans’ advocate, former Miss America, and daughter of a Vietnam veteran — to discuss the vital resources available to those who have served. From housing and health care to education and employment, Heather shares insights on how communities and organizations can work together to ensure no veteran is left behin...

In this powerful episode of the USA Cares Podcast , we sit down with Angela Billings—author of Command the Crisis —to explore how leadership, composure, and clarity can turn moments of chaos into opportunities for growth. Angela shares the real-world experiences that inspired her book, breaking down actionable strategies for crisis management, communication under pressure, and maintaining mission...

On this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we are honored to welcome retired United States Navy Rear Admiral Gene Forrest Price. Admiral Price most recently served as Reserve Deputy Commander of the Naval Information Forces (2017–2022) and as Commander of the Naval Information Force Reserve (2017–2020). With decades of distinguished service, he shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and the...

In this episode of the USA Cares podcast, we welcome Jeanne Cox and Christie Parker-Wheeler to share the story of the Field of Honor® in Georgetown, Texas . Together, they discuss the powerful impact of this display of hundreds of American flags, the community effort behind it, and how it serves as a tribute to our nation’s veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders. Tune in to he...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we sit down with Rick Franco, one of the founders of Four Branches Bourbon. Rick shares the inspiring story behind the creation of Four Branches, a bourbon brand born out of friendship, service, and a commitment to give back. He also reflects on his distinguished military career, the lessons he carried forward from his time in uniform, and how those experi...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we sit down with Will Bland of the Kentucky National Guard — host of the Goal Tending podcast and a certified Holistic Health Coach. Will shares his passion for helping service members and their families strengthen not only their physical health, but also their mental and emotional resilience. From his own journey in the Guard to his work guiding others to...

In this powerful episode of the USA Cares Podcast, hosts Matt Caster and Maeve Armstrong sit down with Navy SEAL Commander Lewis Anderson to hear his incredible story — from growing up in Tell City, Indiana, to serving over two decades in one of the most elite military units in the world. Anderson shares the twists of fate that led him into the Navy, the grueling challenges of SEAL training, and u...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we welcome Brian Anderson — Purple Heart recipient, actor, and passionate spokesman for USA Cares. Brian shares his inspiring journey from serving in the U.S. Army to building a successful career in entertainment, and how his experiences have fueled his dedication to supporting veterans and military families. Tune in for a powerful conversation about resil...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast , hosts Matt Caster and Maeve Armstrong sit down with author of American to the Corps! , LtCol. Jonathon P. Myers, USMC Retired, served with distinction in the U.S. Marine Corps for 28 years as an intelligence officer. They dive into Jonathan’s journey, his powerful message on patriotism, resilience, and the values that define the American spirit. Tune in f...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we're joined by special co-host Richard Carullo and guest Jacob Ragain from Wayside Christian Mission. Together, we explore the essential resources available to veterans, focusing on the support systems that help them transition to civilian life. Jacob shares the impactful work being done at Wayside Christian Mission, highlighting the programs and ser...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we sit down with renowned war correspondent Kevin Sites to explore his remarkable career and his compelling book, In the Hot Zone. Kevin takes us through his experiences reporting from some of the most dangerous conflict zones around the world, sharing the challenges, dangers, and the emotional toll of being on the frontlines. We discuss the stories behind...

In this powerful episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we are honored to speak with retired Navy SEAL Captain Ed Gallrein. With decades of experience in some of the most challenging environments imaginable, Ed shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and the unwavering commitment required to serve as a Navy SEAL. We dive into his storied career, the lessons he's learned along the way, and h...

In this episode of the USA Cares Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed author Kelly Kennedy to discuss her powerful book, The Unit. Join us as we delve into the real-life stories that inspired this gripping account of the soldiers of Charlie Company, their struggles, sacrifices, and the bonds that held them together during the darkest times. Kelly shares her experiences embedded with the troops, the...

About Our Guest Shawn Dawley, president of OT2 Consulting, is an accomplished leader, leadership educator, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping all leaders at all levels unlock their power, passion, and purpose! A former Director and Vice President at a Fortune 100 company and nationwide firm, respectively, Shawn first spent 25 years in the United States Air Force, serving as a combat pilot, c...

Join us on the latest episode of the USA Cares podcast, where host Matt Caster, along with friends Anise McEwen and Josh Kerby, engage in an insightful conversation with special guest Carson Parker, the newly appointed Government Relations Manager at USA Cares. The team discusses the organization's mission of honoring veterans and extending support to those in need. In this episode, they delv...

SHOW NOTES Summary Jimmy Blackmon, a retired Colonel (USA) with extensive military experience, shares his background and military service. He discusses the ability of the military to break down barriers and create a sense of camaraderie. Blackmon emphasizes the importance of mentors and honest feedback in personal and professional growth. He also talks about his experiences in combat, including th...

In the exhilarating 137th episode of the USA Cares Podcast, listeners are welcomed into the new year with an exclusive conversation featuring the esteemed retired Command Sergeant Major Tim Methany. As the first episode of the year, this installment promises insightful discussions and compelling narratives, offering a unique perspective on military life, leadership, and the challenges faced by vet...

Join us for an uplifting and insightful conversation as Nick Jewell shares the chapters of his life – from serving in the Air Force to creating a community hub with Crumbl Cookies. This episode is a tribute to the men and women who continue to make a difference beyond their military service. Tune in and be inspired by the USA Cares podcast featuring Nick Jewel – a story of service, entrepreneurshi...

GUEST BIO Michael “Rod” Rodriguez is the President and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. Rod joined the U.S. Army in 1992 and attended the Special Forces Assessment and Selection course to become a Green Beret in 1997. In 2013, he was medically retired due to numerous combat injuries. His last assignment as a Green Beret came as a Sniper Instructor assigned to the JFK Special...