Coming Home Well

Dr. Tyler Pieron

Coming Home Well is a podcast hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, dedicated to exploring topics that support and uplift the veteran community. The show features engaging conversations with organizations working to assist veterans, discussions with historians about pivotal moments in military history, insights into claims and benefits for service members, and a wide range of other subjects relevant to veterans and their families. Through these discussions, the podcast provides valuable information, guidance, and inspiration to those transitioning from military service to civilian life and beyond.

  1. MAR 27

    Fred Apgar – The Secret War & The Road to Forgiveness

    In this episode, Tyler sits down with Fred Apgar, a Vietnam-era Air Force veteran and author of Return to the War on Plaine des Jarres. Fred served with the 7th Airborne Command and Control Squadron (7 ACCS), coordinating the clandestine air war over Laos. Fred discusses the complexities of the "Secret War," the painful homecoming many veterans faced, and his transformative 2014 return to Southeast Asia. From meeting survivors of the very bombings he coordinated to an emotional encounter with a former North Vietnamese officer, Fred’s story is a powerful testament to the healing found in forgiveness and shared humanity. Featured Books: Return to the War on Plaine des Jarres by Fred ApgarLeadership Lessons from the Field by Fred Apgar

    1h 13m

  2. FEB 22

    The Data the Military Can’t Ignore

    In this episode, Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Rob Evans, the developer and visionary behind two disruptive platforms: Hots and Cots and Vet Stats. Rob’s mission is simple but profound: use transparency to improve the lives of those who serve. From rating moldy barracks and undercooked dining hall food to evaluating VA healthcare quality, Rob discusses how anonymous, data-driven feedback is forcing accountability at the highest levels of the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Resources & Links Vet Stats Website: vet-stats.ioHots and Cots: Hots&Cots Available on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store.Social Media: Follow the mission on Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook. #Military #Veterans #VAHealthcare #QualityOfLife #Transparency #MilitaryBarracks #VeteransAffairs #HotsAndCots #VetStats

    37 min

  3. JAN 24

    Career Transitions from Military to Civilian Life | Michelle Schafer

    Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging. In this episode, Dr. Tyler Pieron and Michelle Schafer share practical strategies to help veterans and service members translate military experience into civilian careers, build strong resumes and LinkedIn profiles, network effectively, and find work aligned with their values. You’ll Learn: How to identify and communicate transferable military skills Resume and LinkedIn strategies for civilian employers Why referrals fill most jobs before they’re posted How to network through conversation—not self-promotion Five reflection questions to clarify your next career move Resources & Links: Career Focus Framework • Cultivating Career Growth • LinkedIn • Glassdoor Connect with Michelle: mschafercoaching.ca | LinkedIn

    1h 9m

  4. JAN 19

    The Forgotten Atrocities of the Pacific Theater in WWII

    in this episode, Tyler speaks with historian and educator Jenny Chan about the often-overlooked atrocities of the Pacific Theater during World War II. Drawing from personal family histories and over one million archived documents, they explore Unit 731, POW camps, the Bataan Death March, Hell Ships, and the lasting impact of war across generations. Jenny also shares how Pacific Atrocities Education works to preserve fragile historical records and why understanding this history is essential for human rights today. Topics Covered Unit 731 and Japan’s secret human experimentation programPOW camps, Hell Ships, and the Bataan Death March35–40% POW mortality rate under Japanese captivityThe Doolittle Raid and civilian retaliationWhy the Pacific War remains under-documentedIntergenerational PTSD and modern implications Resources Mentioned The Rape of Nanking — Iris ChangFactories of Death — Sheldon HarrisUnjust Enrichment - Linda Goetz HolmesPacific Atrocities Education: pacificatrocities.orgPodcast: Pacific Front Untold Support the Show Subscribe, rate, and share Coming Home to help preserve these stories and support veterans and historical education.

    59 min

  5. JAN 11

    From Claims to Care: How the VA Is Changing for Veterans

    In this episode, Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes back Dr. Paul Lawrence, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to discuss the latest initiatives and challenges at the VA. From modernizing healthcare to protecting veterans’ benefits, Dr. Lawrence shares insights, practical advice, and stories that matter to every veteran. Topics Covered VA leadership priorities and putting veterans at the center of all decisionsReducing claims backlog and improving benefits processingProtecting veterans from predatory “claim sharks” and promoting free, accredited assistanceElectronic health records and coordinated careExpanding community care and telehealth for rural veteransEfforts to combat veteran homelessness and available resourcesLegislative updates, including the Elizabeth Dole ActModernizing benefits, appeals, and technology in VA servicesPractical advice and personal stories from veterans If you or someone you know is at risk of homelessness, call the VA’s homeless hotline: 877-424-3838. Resources VA Homeless Hotline: 877-424-3838Accredited Veteran Service Organizations:American LegionVeterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)Wounded Warrior ProjectState Departments of Veterans Affairs Call to Action If you found this episode helpful, share it, post about it on social media, or leave a rating and review. For additional resources, visit your local VA or reach out to an accredited veteran service organization. Thank you for listening to Coming Home Well — until all are home and all are well.

    27 min

  6. 12/28/2025

    The Story Behind Dog: PTSD Through a Different Lens

    In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron speaks with Israeli author and former elite combat soldier Yishay Ishi Ron about PTSD, stigma, and the power of storytelling to heal trauma. Ishi shares his personal journey from military service and silent struggle to writing his acclaimed novel Dog—a cult favorite in Israel now available in English. Using the story of a stray dog as an allegory, Dog explores trauma, redemption, and the life-changing impact of kindness. Key Topics: Living with PTSD as a veteranMental health stigma and seeking helpWriting as a tool for healingThe story and meaning behind DogThe upcoming film adaptation and Ishi’s next book, The Girl Who Wrote the White Lion Resources: Buy Dog on Amazon Ishi Ron’s website Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode of Coming Home Well.

    1h 9m

  7. 12/01/2025

    Redefining Success After Service with Matt Watkins

    In this episode, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Matt Watkins, a Marine Corps veteran who spent 14 years serving as an F-18 mechanic, recruiter, and leader. Matt opens up about the pivotal moment he decided to transition out of active duty, the uncertainty that followed, and how he ultimately rediscovered purpose in the civilian world. Today, he serves as the Military Program Manager at Premise Health, where he advocates for veterans, military spouses, and the broader military community. Guest Bio Matt Watkins is a former Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant with deep expertise in aviation maintenance, recruiting, leadership, and talent development. After 14 years of service, he navigated the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, applying his skills in new industries before finding his passion in veteran advocacy and workforce development. In addition to his role at Premise Health, Matt supports the military community through nonprofit work and mentorship. Connect with Matt Watkins Matt is eager to support veterans, military spouses, and service members. Connect with him on LinkedIn or through his nonprofit initiatives for mentorship, guidance, or community resources.

    1h 11m

  8. 11/23/2025

    Attorney James R. Burn – Navigating Veterans Benefits, SSDI and Avoiding Claim Sharks

    In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes attorney James R. Burn, a seasoned advocate with decades of experience in veterans benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Offering a perspective rarely heard on veterans podcasts, one from a private attorney rather than a VA or state representative, James shares clear, practical insights into how veterans can successfully navigate two of the most complex benefits systems in the country. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the claims process, learn how to avoid unethical “claim sharks,” and discover why early, well-documented action is one of the best ways to ensure success. Key Topics Discussed Differences between VA benefits and SSDI and how they overlapWhy accredited representation matters and how to avoid claim sharksUpdates on the PACT Act and Agent Orange presumptivesFiling strong claims: documentation, timelines, and common mistakesHow AI and technology are improving claims processingThe truth about fraud and why it’s far less common than people thinkWhen veterans should seek legal help and how to verify accreditationWhy it’s never too early to file a claim or ask questions Contact Information For a free consultation or to learn more about James R. Burn’s services visit abesbaumann.com

    1h 15m
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5
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6 Ratings

About

Coming Home Well is a podcast hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, dedicated to exploring topics that support and uplift the veteran community. The show features engaging conversations with organizations working to assist veterans, discussions with historians about pivotal moments in military history, insights into claims and benefits for service members, and a wide range of other subjects relevant to veterans and their families. Through these discussions, the podcast provides valuable information, guidance, and inspiration to those transitioning from military service to civilian life and beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Tyler Pieron
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    165
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Coming Home Well
  • Show Website
    Coming Home Well