Welcome Home - A Podcast for Veterans, About Veterans, By Veterans

What happens when a veteran's fight is no longer on the battlefield but within themselves? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Eric Brew from Warriors Set Free, a veteran service organization dedicated to supporting those grappling with PTS, TBI, and alcoholism. Eric candidly shares his transition from serving in the Marine Corps and the Army to civilian life, marked by identity struggles he dubs the "matching clothes syndrome" and the personal upheaval of a second divorce. His story takes a transformative turn through a pivotal four-day men's event at Warriors Set Free, where he found healing and a renewed purpose in veteran advocacy alongside his veteran father and son.Warriors Set Free offers more than just support; it provides a spiritual refuge for veterans and first responders navigating internal battles and past traumas. Central to their mission is the "freedom appointment," an intensive spiritual journey that seeks to cleanse personal guilt and shame. We discuss the profound impact of childhood trauma on veterans and the societal expectation for men to remain silent. By embracing a faith-based approach, Warriors Set Free encourages veterans to lay down their burdens and redefine their identity beyond military service. Discover how community and spiritual support can lead to healing and hope for those who have sacrificed so much.

What if the skills you honed in the military could transform you into a culinary entrepreneur? Meet Jeff Fritz, a retired Air Force chef whose journey from a SEER instructor to a successful food industry leader offers a masterclass in leveraging military discipline for civilian success. Jeff's story is a remarkable testament to adaptability and resilience, beginning with unexpected challenges during basic training and culminating in the national expansion of Chef Fritz Brand Seasonings, launched during the pandemic.Jeff brings us into the world of an enlisted aid, where he honed culinary skills while serving top-ranking officials, eventually competing in prestigious culinary arenas like the James Beard House. This episode highlights Jeff's path from weapons director to culinary competitions, illustrating how the organizational and strategic skills from his military career seamlessly transitioned into his post-retirement culinary pursuits. His partnership with Liberty Life Farms and success at local farmer's markets exemplify his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication.Transitioning from military to civilian life is no small feat, and Jeff provides invaluable insights into the resources available for veterans, such as the Transition Assistance Program and Hiring Our Heroes. His journey underscores the importance of strategic planning in finance, healthcare, and retirement, offering a roadmap for fellow veterans aspiring to embark on entrepreneurial ventures. Tune in to learn from Jeff's experiences and gain inspiration for your own post-military journey.

Veterans and anyone seeking relief from physical pain, join us for an enlightening discussion with Holly Crocker, the visionary owner of Balanced Arch Massage in Haymarket, VA. Holly's personal transformation from debilitating pain to a skilled massage therapist offers hope and inspiration. Her expertise in Western and Eastern techniques, including Chinese meridian therapy and acupressure, focuses on restoring the body's natural design for pain-free movement. Discover how her tailored approach to massage therapy has profoundly impacted my life and my wife’s, and learn about the potential for achieving improved mobility and well-being.Explore the transformative power of touch as Holly and I highlight the role of holistic massage therapy in alleviating tension and stress stored in our bodies. We delve into the essentials of massage sessions, from brief sports massages to extensive relaxation experiences and the added benefits of essential oils and acupressure. Get insights into how massage therapy can complement traditional medical practices and the importance of an initial consultation to address specific concerns. Find a massage therapist near you or look for a VA Whole Health program at your local VA Medical Center.

Can artificial intelligence truly transform a veteran's job search experience? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Justin Henderson, a former Marine now leading the charge at Veteran Hiring Solutions. Justin shares his personal path from the battlefield to the boardroom, highlighting how his company is breaking new ground with AI to aid veterans in seamlessly transitioning to civilian careers. Discover how performance-based and video job descriptions are changing the game, ensuring veterans' skills are perfectly aligned with what employers need.In this eye-opening conversation, we provide indispensable advice for service members preparing to transition out of the military. Planning early, leveraging security clearances, and choosing strategic locations are just the start. Whether you're aiming for a slice of corporate America or a role in government contracting, the insights shared here are invaluable. Plus, we tackle the balance between AI-driven recruitment and the irreplaceable human touch while emphasizing the vital role of networking and personal goal-setting. Tune in for a treasure trove of resources and actionable strategies to navigate this critical life transition.

Jim Porter, the highly respected president of the Freedom Museum in Manassas, takes us on a journey through time as he shares his remarkable life story. From the moment he was drafted in 1968 to his illustrious 26-year career as a Navy pilot, Jim recounts his experiences with over 900 carrier landings and his service during the Vietnam War. Transitioning to civilian life, he dedicated 17 years as a Navy JROTC instructor at Osborne Park High School, where he established a unique military-style program that left a lasting impact on students. Jim's connection with Chuck Colgan Jr. eventually led to the founding of the Freedom Museum, cementing his role in preserving military history.Now located in the bustling heart of downtown Manassas, the Freedom Museum thrives under Jim's leadership. Its new location not only increases visibility but also fosters a stronger connection with the community. The museum honors veterans from Prince William County through personal artifacts and stories, creating a deeply personal link to military history. With free admission sustained by community support and donations, the recent fundraising gala was a triumph, almost covering the museum's annual budget. Tune in to explore how Jim Porter's visionary leadership and the museum's dynamic presence continue to educate and engage visitors about local military history.

Laura Herzog, the founder and CEO of Honoring Our Fallen, joins us to share her incredible journey from a civilian public affairs officer to leading a nonprofit that supports families of deceased military service members. Despite never having served in the military, Laura found herself deeply moved by the overwhelming challenges faced by grieving families, inspiring her to establish a bridge between military protocols and the needs of these families. Through heart-touching stories, Laura reveals how her organization coordinates hero missions, ensuring dignified ceremonies and ongoing support through initiatives like Flag Forever Hero and retreats for widows and mothers.We also explore the vital role that community support plays in sustaining the mission of honoringourfallen.org. With an ambitious goal to secure 500 monthly donors, the organization relies on contributions to continue providing crucial services nationwide. One poignant example illustrates the complex coordination required to transport a fallen Marine from California to Indiana, highlighting the dedicated efforts involved in honoring these heroes. Discover how you can make a tangible difference through donations or volunteering, and join us in supporting this noble cause to bring comfort and respect to grieving families across the country.

What happens when you combine an unwavering commitment to the warrior ethos with cutting-edge forensic science? Join us as we speak with Sean Everette, the Media Relations Chief for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), who shares his unique insights into the agency's tireless mission of locating and identifying over 81,000 missing American service members from World War II and beyond. With a personal touch, I recount the story behind my POW/MIA bracelet, a symbol of hope and remembrance I've worn since 1972, connecting deeply to the agency's profound work.Discover how DPAA's global partnerships, involving more than 100 organizations, fuel their extensive recovery operations across the world. Sean sheds light on the complex identification process, including forensic analysis, DNA testing, and chest radiograph analysis, revealing the extraordinary dedication required to bring fallen heroes back home. From the dense jungles of Vietnam to the labs in Hawaii and Nebraska, learn about the meticulous efforts that result in emotional reunifications with families, fulfilling the solemn promise of never leaving a comrade behind. This episode offers an eye-opening glimpse into an agency of remarkable resolve and its impact on countless lives.

How do dedicated volunteers, healthcare professionals, and passionate riders come together to create an unforgettable event for our veterans? This episode promises a heartwarming and inspiring journey through the 7th Annual Warrior Ride in Haymarket. Join me, your host Larry Zilliox, as I engage with incredible individuals like Solomon Montgomery, a licensed physical therapist assistant who fervently supports soldiers with traumatic injuries. Listen to Faith Lillemo, our unstoppable volunteer coordinator, as she reveals the immense teamwork required to orchestrate such a meaningful event. Hear from Shirley Dominick, the founder of Serve Our Willing Warriors, who shares her personal experience of riding for the cause. And don’t miss Rozlyn Giddens from UVA Health, who talks about their unwavering support and community engagement.Prepare to be moved by the phenomenal stories of riders who push their physical boundaries. Discover how targeted therapy can lead to astounding improvements, even enabling some participants to ride 30-40 miles. Learn about Joe's rigorous training for a 100-mile run at Halloween and the role therapy plays in alleviating his pain. We close with an invitation to participate in next September's Warrior Ride, underscoring how these activities are both rewarding and transformative. This episode is a testament to the collective effort and enduring spirit that honors and supports our veterans.

Major Gerald Gangaram, USA (Ret.) shares his remarkable journey and the pivotal moments that shaped his path from troubled youth to distinguished Army veteran. Discover how a mentor in junior ROTC guided Gerald to West Point and set the stage for his career as an Apache helicopter pilot. Gerald recounts his experiences in flight school, his service in Afghanistan, and his leadership roles at the Army's flight school, shedding light on the unique approach to military leadership and training. This episode emphasizes the critical role ROTC programs play in mentoring and providing opportunities beyond military recruitment.The conversation takes a profound turn as Gerald opens up about coping with severe injuries from a bicycle incident, battling mental health challenges, and transitioning out of the military. Hear about his struggles with feelings of unworthiness, the battle with depression, and the mentor's advice that transformed his life. We also dive into Gerald's insights on the VA's dedication, the need for robust support systems for veterans, and his current mission with the Bill of Rights Institute. Gerald's work with BRI underscores the importance of civic education and fostering better citizenship among future generations, highlighting the collective effort needed to honor and support those who have selflessly served.

Discover how the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) transforms lives through an inspiring conversation with Dan Clare from DAV Headquarters in Kentucky. Learn about Dan's journey from the Marine Corps to his impactful role in communications with DAV. We'll shed light on DAV's foundational mission of advocating for veterans' benefits, offering transportation to medical appointments, and supporting career and entrepreneurial goals. You'll hear from host Chef Larry who shares his personal testimony, showcasing the profound difference DAV's support makes in the lives of veterans.We also highlight the critical role of transportation services, emphasizing the urgent need for volunteer drivers to assist veterans, especially older ones, in getting to medical appointments. If you want to volunteer as a DAV driver, visit volunteerforveterans.org. Explore the advancements in telehealth and the continued importance of in-person care. Gain insights into the Women Veterans Report, which addresses unique challenges faced by women veterans and the collaborative efforts with the Military Officers Association of America to streamline the claims process. Dive into how your donations can sustain these essential services, ensuring comprehensive support for all who have served. For more information on DAV benefit services, go to Benefitsquestions.org.