Jun 4

Best of Season 3: Leadership, Purpose, and Employment After Service (Pt 2)

In this special "Best of Season 3 – Part 2" episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about leadership, resilience, and finding purpose after military service. Bart Womack shares lessons on embracing change and helping others reach their potential. Jeremy Stalnecker reflects on his Marine Corps experience, personal transition, and the mission behind Mighty Oaks. Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey discusses the challenges veterans face after service and how helping fellow veterans find employment has become his calling. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The importance of embracing change and understanding the "why" Lessons in leadership and accountability Finding purpose after military service The value of veteran-to-veteran support Helping veterans overcome barriers to employment0:00 - Intro 0:40 - Bart on leadership, change, and accountability 5:12 - Jeremy on military service and Mighty Oaks 10:43 - Dartanyun on transition, employment, and helping veterans succeed EPISODE LINKS From Service to Storytelling: CSM Bart Womack’s Story (Part 1) The Mighty Oaks Foundation: Saving Lives, Restoring Families and Changing Legacies with Jeremy Stalnecker (Part 1) DVOP: Helping Veterans Find Their Next Step with Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

22 min

May 21

30 Years of Fighting for Women Veterans with Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos

In this episode of Untold Valor, Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos shares her powerful journey from Army medic to nationally recognized advocate for women veterans impacted by military sexual trauma. She discusses the challenges many veterans face after service, the evolution of support systems within the VA, and why peer-to-peer connection can be life-changing. Dr. Santos also opens up about spirituality, healing, and the importance of finding support instead of suffering in silence. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Personal Story: Dr. Santos’ journeyWomen Veterans: Advocacy and progressMilitary Trauma: Challenges after servicePeer Support: Veterans helping veteransMental Health: Healing and recoveryBreaking Silence: Why conversations matter0:00 – Intro 1:39 – Get to know Dr. Santos 5:04 – On the other side of the oath 6:53 – Creating a platform for women veterans 8:26 – The struggle to speak up 11:01 – The importance of peer-to-peer veteran support 12:52 – Dr. Santos’ encouragement to veterans Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos Learn more about Dr. Santos HERE Get a copy of My Desert Storm: https://www.amazon.com/-/he/Phillyvet/dp/B0DRMHW6R6 EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

20 min

May 7

Best of Season 3: Veterans on Advocacy, Identity, and Mental Health (Pt 1)

In this “Best of Season 3” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about mental health, transition, and rediscovering purpose after military service. Myra shares why veterans must advocate for themselves and seek support without shame. Darrin reflects on the lasting emotional weight of traumatic experiences as a young medic. And Kat opens up about the difficult transition of being medically retired from the Air Force and rebuilding her identity through service in a new way. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Self-advocacy after servicePTSD, anxiety, and mental health managementThe pressure of trauma as a young medicWhy veterans need connection and supportRebuilding purpose after medical retirementThe culture shock of civilian life and school0:00 - Intro 0:51 - Myra on advocating for yourself after service 4:16 - Darrin on trauma, pressure, and mental health 11:12 - Kat on medical retirement and rebuilding purpose EPISODE LINKS There Is Always Hope with Myra Fields-Rouse No Problem Is Too Big: Finding The Courage To Seek Support featuring Darrin Henry When One Door Closes: Strength In New Beginnings with Kat Kirkman EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

19 min

Apr 30

Best of Season 2: Recovery, Turning Points, and the Power of Support (Pt 2)

This “Best of Season 2” episode highlights powerful moments of recovery, resilience, and life-changing support systems. Michael shares how his difficult transition out of the military led him to a new purpose, helping fellow veterans find meaningful careers. Dr. Maio reflects on the “three Jens” who entered his life at critical moments and helped save it. And finally, Lena opens up about the mentors who recognized her struggles and guided her toward healing and growth. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Transition struggles after military serviceFinding purpose through career coachingThe hidden cycle of depression and isolationLife-saving power of connection and interventionMentorship, faith, and support systems0:00 - Intro 1:16 - Michael Bate on career transition challenges 5:41 - Dr. Nick Maio’s “three Jens” story 11:55 - Lena Fowler on mentorship and PTSD Featured Episodes: Finding Your Path After the Military with Career Specialist Michael Bate Holding Onto Hope with Dr. Nick Maio Finding Strength in Community and Faith with Lena Fowler EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

20 min

Apr 9

Best of Season 2: Veterans in Transition, Connection, and Purpose (Pt 1)

In this special “Best of Season 2” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations centered on the challenges of transitioning out of the military, the importance of connection, and finding renewed purpose through service. Kyle shares insights on the cultural shift veterans face when reintegrating into civilian life and the systemic gaps that make that transition difficult. Colonel Arthur Jenkins reflects on the power of peer-to-peer connection and why simply listening can be life-changing. Ryan opens up about how volunteering became a cornerstone of his post-military identity, helping him rebuild community and purpose. These conversations highlight a common truth: no veteran has to navigate life after service alone- and connection can be the first step toward healing. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The cultural disconnect veterans face when leaving the militaryWhy reintegration into civilian life is often more complex than expectedThe power of veteran-to-veteran connection and shared experiencesHow listening and validation can transform livesVolunteering as a pathway to purpose and personal growth0:00 - Intro 0:53 - Kyle on reintegration challenges and cultural transition 5:06 - COL Arthur Jenkins on connection and listening 9:54 - Ryan on volunteering and finding purpose after service Featured Episodes: Post-Service Reintegration and Community Building with Kyle Hanlan Stronger Together: Veteran Fellowship, Mentorship, and Advocacy with Colonel Arthur L. Jenkins, Jr. Seeking Mental Health and Community Support with Ryan Allman EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

15 min

Mar 26

VA Support for Veterans Facing Legal & Mental Health Challenges with Lily Thomas

In this episode, we sit down with Lily Thomas, a Veterans Justice Outreach social worker at the Coatesville VA Medical Center, to explore how veterans can access support when facing legal, mental health, or substance use challenges. Lily shares how early intervention, treatment programs, and community partnerships are helping veterans rebuild stability and avoid deeper legal consequences. If you or someone you know has served and needs support, this conversation highlights practical pathways to get connected with the right resources and take the first step toward recovery. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How the Veterans Justice Outreach Program helps justice-involved veterans get connected to treatmentThe Veterans Response Team and its role in supporting veterans in crisisWhat Veterans Treatment Court is and how it helps veterans address legal and mental health challengesThe wide range of inpatient and outpatient VA services available for veteransWhy reaching out to the VA can make a big difference for veterans0:00 – Intro 1:06 – Lily’s Role at the VA 3:19 – Veterans Response Team 6:36 – Veterans Treatment Court 8:43 – Mental Health & Treatment Services 12:49 – Make The Phone Call Lily Thomas Learn more about Lily Thomas HERE Episode Links: VA Coatesville Health Care: https://www.va.gov/coatesville-health-care/programs/first-responders-veterans-response-team/ EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

18 min

Mar 5

Best of Season 1: Courage, Care, and Camaraderie (Pt 2)

This “Best of Season 1 – Part 2” episode highlights powerful moments from past conversations with veterans who shared their personal stories of service, resilience, and recovery. Jermaine reflects on the support he received from his Navy unit during a personal tragedy and how that experience shaped the way he helps others. Darcy shares her struggle balancing motherhood, military service, and mental health, while advocating for breaking the stigma around asking for help. Ricardo discusses the life-changing impact of military medical care as he navigated a multiple sclerosis diagnosis near the end of his career. Together, these stories highlight the strength veterans find in support, openness, and shared experience. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The power of military camaraderie during personal hardshipBalancing military service, motherhood, and mental healthBreaking the stigma around asking for helpWhy open conversations about mental health matterThe importance of medical support and benefits for veterans0:00 - Intro 0:47 - Jermaine on Navy support during a personal tragedy 4:36 - Darcy on mental health struggles while serving 10:21 - Ricardo on military medical care and veteran health benefits Featured Episodes: Generations of Service – Dedication To The Navy with Jermaine Wilson: https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12415352-ep-7-generations-of-service-dedication-to-the-navy-with-jermaine-wilson Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help – Ricardo Byrdsong’s Three Decades In The Navy: https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12524787-ep-10-don-t-be-afraid-to-ask-for-help-ricardo-byrdsong-s-three-decades-in-the-navy Battling Shame & Mental Health Stigmas with Darcy Rideout https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12596523-ep-11-battling-shame-mental-health-stigmas-with-darcy-rideout EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

15 min

Feb 26

Best of Season 1: Stories of Strength and Second Chances (Pt 1)

In this special “Best of Season 1” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about addiction recovery, breaking stigma, and the strength found in the veteran community. Roy shares his journey from alcoholism and homelessness to sobriety and serving others. Marley reflects on the military’s cultural shift around mental health and asking for help. Dr. John Taylor highlights the life-changing impact of veteran organizations and shared knowledge. These stories remind us that healing begins with connection, and no veteran has to struggle alone. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Overcoming the stigma of asking for helpThe role of VA programs in long-term healingThe military culture shift around mental healthWhy veteran organizations are critical after serviceHelping others as the pathway to personal healing0:00 - Intro 0:53 - Roy on stigma and barriers to seeking help 7:43 - Marley on military culture shift and mental health 11:29 - Dr. John Taylor on veteran organizations Featured Episodes: Military or Jail? Roy Remone’s Story of Finding Purpose After Trauma Beyond Battlefield: Marley Ganthier’s Advice When Returning To Civilian Life: The Power of Support: Why Veterans Must Share Their Stories with Dr. John Taylor EPISODE RESOURCES Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

19 min

Untold Valor: Veterans Recovery in Action

Best of Season 3: Leadership, Purpose, and Employment After Service (Pt 2)

30 Years of Fighting for Women Veterans with Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos

Best of Season 3: Veterans on Advocacy, Identity, and Mental Health (Pt 1)

Best of Season 2: Recovery, Turning Points, and the Power of Support (Pt 2)

Best of Season 2: Veterans in Transition, Connection, and Purpose (Pt 1)

VA Support for Veterans Facing Legal & Mental Health Challenges with Lily Thomas

Best of Season 1: Courage, Care, and Camaraderie (Pt 2)

Best of Season 1: Stories of Strength and Second Chances (Pt 1)

Trailer

Trailer: Introducing Untold Valor by Voice & Vision

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