#StillServing: The VFW Podcast

The Veterans of Foreign Wars
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#StillServing: The VFW Podcast is the official podcast of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the oldest combat veterans service organization advocating for and serving our veterans, service members and military families worldwide. #StillServing will feature interviews, one-of-a-kind perspectives and insightful conversations concerning veteran legislation, educational and financial assistance programs, national veterans' services, critical initiatives from the VFW National Commander, and much more.

  1. 5D AGO

    Hail to the Chief

    On the heels of an electrifying VFW Washington Conference, Host Rob Couture welcomes VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore, Ryan Gallucci, Kristina Keenan, and Mike Figlioli to reflect on a landmark week of advocacy, powerful testimony on Capitol Hill and the sobering reality that American service members remain in harm's way amid escalating conflict involving Iran. Whitmore discusses delivering her testimony as VFW National Commander before a joint session of the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees, calling on Congress to fully and faithfully "Honor the Contract" with veterans. The panel examines the VFW's top legislative priorities, including the Major Richard Star Act, suicide prevention, brain health, toxic exposure research, and improving access to care for veterans and service members. Watch VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore's full testimony: https://youtu.be/UXXQzZxifJs Featured Guests: Carol Whitmore – VFW National Commander Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veteran Service Episode Highlights: 0:00 Intro and roll call 1:28 Washington Conference overview 2:11 Conflict involving Iran and service members in harm's way 5:11 Remembering the six U.S. service members killed 11:44 Why honoring the contract matters now 13:00 Carol Whitmore's testimony before Congress 15:22 Preparing the VFW legislative message 17:10 Standing ovation for the Major Richard Star Act 19:04 Suicide prevention and the human cost of inaction 22:01 Why the Major Richard Star Act matters 24:56 Sen. Ron Johnson blocks unanimous consent 27:49 How unanimous consent works in the Senate 31:21 Why the issue is fairness, not cost 40:07 VA Secretary Doug Collins at Washington Conference 41:56 Rescinding the interim final rule 46:16 "No veteran should ever have to pay for a claim" 51:05 VFW Congressional Award for Rep. August Pfluger 57:30 Bonus Army Memorial March and VFW advocacy history 1:06:35 Good of the Order 1:14:11 Closing remarks

    1h 15m

  2. FEB 27

    Three's a Quorum.

    Host Rob Couture is joined by Ryan Gallucci, Executive Director of the VFW Washington Office, and Mike Figlioli, Director of VFW National Veteran Service, to break down major developments affecting veterans. The conversation centers on the VA's interim final rule amending 38 CFR 4.10 — a regulatory change that raised concerns about how disability ratings could factor in the effects of medication. The team explains what the rule meant, why it sparked backlash across the veterans community, and how coordinated advocacy led to VA announcing it would not move forward with enforcement for now. With more than 18,000 public comments submitted, the episode highlights the power of veteran voices. The hosts also provide an update on the fight against predatory "claim sharks," including a recent federal court ruling striking down Louisiana's law and ongoing state-level legislative battles. Finally, they preview the upcoming VFW Washington Conference, where members will meet with lawmakers to advocate for priorities like the Major Richard Star Act, toxic exposure expansion, transition assistance reform, and protections for veterans overseas. Featured Guests: Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veteran Service Episode Highlights: 0:00 Intro and Roll Call 2:29 VA rule change on 38 CFR 4.10 13:38 VA response and public comment surge 27:48 Claims sharks update and court ruling 32:44 Major Richard Star Act advocacy 39:20 Washington Conference preview 45:37 Legislative priorities and joint hearing 55:03 Good of the Order – Closing remarks

    1 hr

  3. FEB 6

    Still Shingling

    Host Rob Couture welcomes Ryan Gallucci, Brittany Dymond Murray, Nancy Springer, and Gabby Kubinyi for a wide-ranging advocacy roundtable covering the latest veterans policy updates from Capitol Hill and beyond.   The conversation begins with a major update on the Major Richard Star Act, including the VFW's new three-part Action Alert strategy aimed at pushing Congress toward a long-overdue public hearing. The panel explains why hearings matter, what's driving resistance, and how advocates can keep the momentum going.   Next, the team breaks down major developments in the fight against "claim sharks," including recent state-level enforcement actions and legislation designed to crack down on predatory companies charging veterans unlawful fees for claims assistance.   The episode also highlights the VFW–Student Veterans of America (SVA) Legislative Fellowship and the fellows' new action alert supporting H.R. 1965, which would increase the book stipend and tie it to inflation. Nancy Springer recaps her testimony before the House VA Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, emphasizing survivor-focused legislation and the power of veterans' stories in shaping policy.   Finally, Ryan shares insights from overseas engagements with VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore, including visits to service members and partners in Germany, Poland, and Kosovo—reinforcing why the VFW remains committed to supporting those still serving abroad.   Links:   Action Corps Weekly: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/grassroots-efforts/vfw-action-corps-weekly  VFW-SVA Fellowship: https://www.vfw.org/assistance/student-veterans-support/student-fellowship  VFW Voices of Service - Stories in Action: https://forms.gle/3R4toepnSpDFLpvU6    Featured Guests:   Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs & Strategic Outreach Nancy Springer – Deputy Director, VFW National Legislative Service Gabby Kubinyi – Associate Director, Grassroots Advocacy, VFW National Legislative Service   Episode Highlights:   0:00 Intro and Roll Call 4:11 Major Richard Star Act update 18:21 Claims sharks progress and enforcement updates 28:14 VFW–SVA Legislative Fellowship and H.R. 1965 39:52 Nancy Springer testimony recap 58:41 Overseas engagement: Germany, Poland, and Kosovo 1:21:25 Good of the Order

    1h 35m

  4. JAN 16

    Absolute Resolutions

    Host Rob Couture opens the first episode of 2026 with VFW leaders for an in-depth discussion on veteran policy priorities and emerging national security issues.  The episode centers on the Major Richard Star Act, breaking down why the bill was left out of the National Defense Authorization Act, clarifying misconceptions about cost and jurisdiction, and explaining why the Armed Services Committees play a critical role in advancing the legislation. The panel outlines the VFW's updated advocacy strategy and how members can help push the bill forward through targeted engagement and calls for congressional hearings. The discussion also highlights key provisions of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, including pay raises, quality-of-life protections, blast exposure oversight, and moral injury research, while noting advocacy priorities that remain unfinished. Additional segments address concerns over proposed VA disability rating schedule revisions, a major legal development involving claims sharks, and a recent U.S. Postal Service policy change that could impact veterans submitting benefit claims by mail. The episode closes with reflections on the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela, recognition of newly eligible combat veterans, and reminders of the VFW's ongoing commitment to protecting veterans' earned benefits and honoring continued service. Featured Guests: Joy Craig – Associate Director, VFW National Legislative Service Brian Walker – Assistant Adjutant General, VFW Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Episode Highlights: 0:00 – Welcome to the first Still Serving episode of 2026 3:17 – Major Richard Star Act: status and advocacy strategy 16:44 – Why concurrent receipt matters for veterans and readiness 45:20 – NDAA highlights and unfinished priorities 54:40 – VA disability rating schedule concerns 1:11:30 – Claims sharks and accountability efforts 1:17:12 – USPS postmark changes and veteran claims 1:21:15 – Venezuela operation and recognition of service

    1h 39m

  5. 12/19/2025

    And of Course, World Peace

    We welcome members of the VFW Washington Office for a roundtable on advocacy, benefits delivery, and showing up for veterans where it matters most. Leaders from National Legislative Service and National Veteran Service discuss how frontline experience shapes VFW's work on Capitol Hill. The episode opens with updates from recent VFW congressional engagement, including a House roundtable on veterans' data protection and claims fraud tied to predatory practices and AI-generated nexus letters. The panel also reviews Nancy Springer's recent testimony on more than two dozen veterans-related bills focused on benefits reform, appeals modernization, and expanded access to care. The conversation turns to the VFW's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program, highlighting how accredited service officers help transitioning service members avoid mistakes, overpayments, and fraud. Real-world examples show how early engagement protects long-term benefits, health care access, and financial stability. The episode also looks beyond policy to leadership and service, featuring reflections from a Medal of Honor reception ahead of the Army–Navy Game. Highlights from VFW's Army–Navy tailgates underscore how visibility and camaraderie help connect the next generation of veterans to the organization. Links referenced in the episode: Read Nancy's testimony: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/national-legislative-service/congressional-testimony/2025/12/pending-legislation-svac Watch the hearing: https://www.veterans.senate.gov/2025/12/hearing-to-consider-pending-legislation?fbclid=IwY2xjawOxO5pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFIOHZxd1c2MUR3bGxxYjdhc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhREq8WLceE7YTNMjQuhpHhC4OU5FaSX4MyRn0sYDFdH9CZ2NS42OBno2Zh5_aem_FbbWByegXlfHqXV-eRQO5Q Link to find a BDD rep: https://www.vfw.org/assistance/va-claims-separation-benefits/pre-discharge-locations-and-contacts   Episode Highlights: 0:00 Intro and Roll Call 4:43 House roundtable on AI, cybersecurity, and veterans' data protection 8:52 Congressional testimony on 24 veterans-related bills 15:12 Reforming missed exams, appeals, and access to care 24:41 VFW legislative priorities and concurrent receipt 31:20 Medal of Honor reception and leadership reflections 42:16 Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) explained 44:08 AI-generated claims, fraud risks, and nexus letters 50:21 How and where transitioning service members can find help 59:07 The partnership between National Legislative Service and National Veteran Service 1:00:12 Army–Navy Game tailgates and VFW visibility 1:15:30 Good of the Order – holiday reflections and closing thoughts For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Today's VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

    1h 21m

  6. 12/05/2025

    Mimecast and Callbots and Over-Prescriptions

    Host Rob Couture and co-host Brittany Dymond Murray sit down with Kristina Keenan, Ryan Gallucci, and Glenn Umberger, VFW Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, to break down the key legislative and administrative issues currently affecting America's veterans. Keenan recaps her recent congressional testimony, highlighting concerns about VA proposals tied to Medicare Advantage, as well as the growing problem of predatory companies misguiding veterans seeking disability benefits. Gallucci expands on the VFW's efforts to protect the VA Home Loan program and discusses challenges veterans face when navigating VA's digital systems, including recent outages and access barriers. Offering a national leadership perspective, Umberger underscores how these issues impact veterans at the Post and Department levels and emphasizes the importance of informed advocacy throughout the organization. Links referenced in the episode: Firms that help military vets with their disability claims can charge exorbitant fees Why Clark Griswold may be one of the most perfect veterans in film Join the VFW's Action Corps network Episode Highlights: 0:00 – Intro and Roll Call 4:20 – Keenan's congressional testimony and key legislative priorities 7:05 – VA cost recovery proposals and Medicare Advantage concerns 11:30 – Predatory claims companies and protecting veterans from exploitation 15:42 – Trajectory Medical and the fight against misleading "consultant" models 19:08 – Preserving the VA Home Loan program and preventing misuse of the funding fee 23:55 – Digital access challenges: website bottlenecks, outdated systems, and broadband gaps 28:10 – VA system outages, bot-driven traffic surges, and VFW escalation 32:15 – Navigating VA.gov and securing essential veterans' records 36:42 – Grassroots reporting and the importance of accurate field intelligence 40:58 – National leadership perspective with Glenn Umberger 45:22 – Legislative and administrative priorities for 2024–2025 1:04:30 – Good of the Order – closing reflections   For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Today's VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

    1h 15m

  7. 11/21/2025

    Gaming the System

    Host Rob Couture is joined by Mike Figlioli, Ryan Gallucci, and Brittany Dymond Murray for a dynamic episode covering Veterans Day events, Combat Tested Gaming, and the VFW's ongoing fight to Honor the Contract. The team reflects on a meaningful Veterans Day weekend with Commander-in-Chief Carol Whitmore, highlighting ceremonies at Arlington, community engagements, and their nearly 21-mile Warrior YOMP with the Allied Forces Foundation.   In the featured segment, the panel welcomes Lynn Rolf, Tim Stocker, and Rob Caudle to discuss VFW Combat Tested Gaming: a thriving online community connecting thousands of veterans and service members. They share how gaming strengthens camaraderie, supports mental health, and offers real-time access to VFW service officers on platforms like Discord and Twitch.   The episode also celebrates a major milestone: $16.2 billion in earned benefits recovered for veterans last fiscal year through VFW National Veteran Service.    Episode Highlights: 0:00 – Intro and Roll Call 5:00 – Veterans Day recap begins 8:50 – Allied Forces Foundation Warrior YOMP experience 14:30 – International veteran participation & community impact 16:30 – VFW Department of Virginia & Maryland engagements 19:20 – Commander-in-Chief Whitmore's schedule & Arlington ceremonies 21:40 – USO and Washington Commanders Salute to Service 24:00 – Washington Post reporting & "Honor the Contract" response 33:00 – Invisible disabilities, stigma, and misconceptions 39:00 – Veterans' lived experiences with service-connected conditions 48:48 – VFW National Veteran Service: $16.2B in benefits recovered 51:55 – Featured segment: Combat Tested Gaming introduction 58:00 – How gaming builds camaraderie & supports mental health 1:10:00 – Tabletop gaming, community nights, and program growth 1:22:00 – Outreach, youth engagement, and future expansion 1:28:00 – Government reopening & impact on veterans' services 1:31:00 – "Good of the Order" Thanksgiving reflections 1:39:00 – Final thoughts and sign-off For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text "NEEDS" to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today's VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

    1h 40m

  8. 11/07/2025

    Absurdly Generous AND Dubious

    Host Rob Couture is joined by Ryan Gallucci, Kristina Keenan, and Mike Figlioli from the VFW Washington Office to discuss the Washington Post's latest coverage of veterans' benefits and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The team addresses a recent series of articles that, they argue, mischaracterize how veterans access the benefits they've earned — including claims that veterans are "flooding the system" or abusing disability compensation.   They provide context on how accredited service officers, like those in the VFW's Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program, actually help veterans navigate complex VA processes with integrity and professionalism. The group also discusses VFW's official response to the Post's reporting, how previous stories have shaped public perception, and why transparency and advocacy remain vital as Veterans Day approaches. Read Washington Post article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/interactive/2025/va-disability-ratings-profit-consultants/    Featured Guests:   - Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veteran Service - Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service - Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office   Episode Highlights: 0:00 – Intro and Roll Call 3:10 – Office updates and renovation news from the VFW Washington Office 6:05 – Overview of The Washington Post's continuing coverage of veterans' benefits 8:42 – Breaking down the latest Post article and its claims about "questionable" disability filings 11:15 – Why the Post's framing matters: context for veterans' earned benefits 14:03 – VFW's past engagement with Post reporters and editorial responses 17:50 – Discussing public perception and the real impact on veterans and their families 21:20 – How accredited representatives like the VFW's BDD team support transitioning service members 25:30 – The Washington Post's portrayal of Cindy Noel and VFW's defense of accredited claims work 29:45 – The importance of ethics, training, and transparency in veterans' advocacy 33:18 – The Economist article that called benefits "absurdly generous" — and the origin of this episode's title 36:42 – Broader implications for VA staffing, accountability, and oversight 43:20 – Reflections on responsible journalism and the VFW's continued outreach 58:30 – Veterans Day timing and why the VFW calls out misleading narratives 1:03:15 – Good of the Order – Closing remarks For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text "NEEDS" to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today's VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

    1h 12m
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4.9
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

#StillServing: The VFW Podcast is the official podcast of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the oldest combat veterans service organization advocating for and serving our veterans, service members and military families worldwide. #StillServing will feature interviews, one-of-a-kind perspectives and insightful conversations concerning veteran legislation, educational and financial assistance programs, national veterans' services, critical initiatives from the VFW National Commander, and much more.

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