Episodios
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Dave Knott, founder of the Veterans and First Responders Foundation, an organization in the greater Cleveland area that exists to provide the support that First Responders, Veterans, Military, K-9s, and their families need to live the fulfilling lives. We’re going to talk about how his organization is looking to support wellness in first responders and veterans.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
DAVID KNOTT
There are jobs that we choose, and those that choose us. In my case, I learned the true nature of that calling through my son's call to service several years ago. Prior to his decision to join the police force, I thought he would wow fans on the field as a professional baseball player (he certainly had the talent). But what I didn’t know was that there was that small voice inside of him – that drive to be a part of building community by ensuring that community’s safety and security.
I would be lying if I said that being a police officer’s father was always comfortable – it’s not. In my line of work – through my 45+ year career in development and construction – I have always had a predictability to my days. The project details may change, there may be long hours, but I always knew that I would come home at the end of the day. That isn’t a certainty when you take the oath to protect and serve. And while my wife and I have bouts of worry for our son, we couldn’t be more proud.
His service was the inspiration for me, years later, to establish The VFR – an organization whose mission is to take care of those that care for others and put them on a path to healing. Today that organization has the backing of many who know the burdens of these service men and women intimately and are ready to see The VFR evolve to better support those in need.
Our vision is clear and supported by a team of military, fire, police as well as development and community experts who know the value we can create means we do not have a moment to spare in pushing this project forward. We are unwavering in our mission – to create the most impactful experience for veterans and first responders, allowing them the space, time and resources to recover, relax and rejuvenate. In short, to address the career fatigue that can lead to devastating results while making sure that critical training leads to better outcomes for the communities
they serve.
I invite you to learn more – and to reach out at any time should you like to join us in our mission.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
VFR Foundation Web Site
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
For this week’s PsychArmor resource of the week is the Behind the Mission Podcast Episode 16, which features Marine Corps Veteran and president of Axon talking about the use of technology to support public safety professionals, including first responders.
You can find the resource here:
https://psycharmor.org/podcast/luke-larson
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re replaying a PsychArmor Conversations with Caregivers featuring how VSOs can support Caregivers. This conversation was recorded in June of 2023 and featured the host, PsychArmor Trusted Advisor Shaina Purser, having a conversation with Madison Moore, VP of Programs & Partnerships at The Elizabeth Dole Foundation, and Michael S. Figlioli, Director of National Veterans Services at the VFW.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Shaina Purser is a dedicated social worker, specializing in mental health and community advocacy. With a passion for supporting underserved populations, Shaina has spent several years working in various settings, including non-profit organizations and community health initiatives.
Shaina holds a strong belief in the power of education and collaboration, working alongside colleagues and community members to develop sustainable solutions that promote well-being and equity. Through her ongoing dedication to the field, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her.
Madison Moore is a Senior Advisor at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the foundation's mission to support military caregivers. With a robust background in nonprofit leadership and advocacy, Madison is dedicated to improving the lives of those who care for wounded, ill, and injured veterans.
Before joining the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Madison held various leadership roles in organizations focused on veteran services and community engagement. Her commitment to serving military families is deeply rooted in her own experiences, driving her passion for advocacy and empowerment.
Madison is a sought-after speaker and expert in military caregiver issues, frequently sharing her insights at national conferences and forums. She holds a degree in Social Work and has contributed to numerous publications highlighting the challenges and strengths of military caregivers.
Michael Figlioli is the National Service Officer for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. As NVS director, Michael is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program, which ensures veterans, service members and their families have access to their earned benefits through the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Defense and Labor. The scope of his role also includes overseeing the VFW’s network of more than 1,950 VFW Accredited Service Officers located around the world and on almost two dozen military installations, to ensure they have the necessary training and resources to provide the best possible service to their veteran clients.
Michael got his start serving veterans, service members and their families as a senior family program specialist at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, from 2005 to 2007, where he was responsible for the welfare of the families of soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, and the formation and training of family support groups assigned to the 94th Regional Readiness Command, which encompassed the entire Northeast Region. He was then appointed as VFW Service Officer for the VFW Department of Massachusetts in 2008. In 2011, he was hired by the Washington Office as a pre-discharge claims representative for the National Capital Region. Since then, he has served in various positions with NVS to include associate director for field operations and assistant director for veterans benefits policy. He became NVS deputy director in March 2016 and has helped guide the program for the last seven years.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
VFW National Veterans Service
Elizabeth Dole Foundation
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
For this week’s PsychArmor resource of the week is the PsychArmor Conversations with Caregivers series. This is a series of moderated discussions that are available on YouTube, and features topics such as Working while Caregiving, Resilience and Recreation, and Caring for Veterans through End of Life.
You can find the resource here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8CpUgKU1Rmt7v_bTpTbZhN_yRNNd0Lwe&si=zK8ox5KBCLz47Uog
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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¿Faltan episodios?
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Victoria Ring, the National Alliance for Care at Home’s Manager of Veterans Services. In this role, Tori manages the We Honor Veterans program, ensuring hospice and palliative care providers are supported and connected with the resources and tools needed to provide quality care that meets the unique needs of Veterans at end of life.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Victoria Ring joined the National Alliance for Care at Home in 2023 and serves as the organization’s Manager of Veterans Services. In this role, Victoria manages the We Honor Veterans program, ensuring hospice and palliative care providers are supported and connected with the resources and tools needed to provide quality care that meets the unique
needs of Veterans at end of life. Her focus is on fostering community connections, ensuring accessibility, promoting health equity, and advancing person-centered and holistic approaches to care. Victoria’s deep rooted personal commitment to improving quality of life for older adults with unique needs is reflected in her daily support of We Honor Veterans.
Victoria holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania with a Certificate of Specialization in Geriatric Social Work. Her experience includes graduate internships with Pennsylvania Hospital’s inpatient proactive psychiatric service line and at Penn Medicine at Home, across their inpatient, outpatient, and bereavement teams. Victoria’s prior experience includes employment as a Housing Case Manager, supporting households experiencing intimate partner violence to secure and sustain safe housing. Victoria has prior experience in facilitating public health education. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the Catholic University of America.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
We Honor Veterans Web site
Military History Checklist
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
Caring for Veterans Through the End Of Life: Healthcare Providers. In this healthcare provider course, you will gain the skills and knowledge to provide compassionate care to our nation's Veterans as they approach the end of their lives. We will examine the specific needs of Veterans and their families, as well as how a patient's military service can impact end-of-life medical care. You will learn how to provide dignified and respectful care that meets the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of Veteran patients. By the end of this course, you will be equipped to deliver compassionate and sensitive care to Veterans in their final days.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/caring-for-veterans-through-the-end-of-life-healthcare-providers
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Amy Alvarez, Vice President of Marketing and Communications with the Avalon Action Alliance, and John and Cheryl Burns, a veteran family whose lives have been changed through support from Avalon Action Alliance partners. The Avalon Action Alliance is a network of treatment, service and support providers that takes a comprehensive approach to addressing Traumatic Brain Injury, Posttraumatic Stress, and Substance Use concerns.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Amy Alvarez is a community builder and storyteller who loves bringing people together for social impact. Throughout her career, she’s helped some of your favorite causes and social enterprises stand out with innovative marketing, business development and relationship building. Prior to Avalon, Amy served as the Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Make-A-Wish Georgia where she helped them successfully refresh their brand, build and grow their social media presence, and secure national media to elevate stories of wish families. She loves mission-driven organizations and finds purpose in trying to move people to take action, build bridges and influence change. She’s a believer in creating an environment that fosters diverse voices and perspectives.
Amy graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Marketing with an emphasis in Sales and Customer Relationship Management. As a child, her love for travel was ignited through her father’s 22-year service in the Navy. Her favorite place to be stationed was Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
In her free time, you’ll catch her on the trails with her Frenchie, Charlie, exploring a new city or dancing in the aisles at the grocery store to some music.
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John Burns is an Army Combat Veteran who survived an IED attack while deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. A last minute decision as a leader to change seats assignments changed everything for him, making him the lone survivor in his vehicle and leaving him with debilitating injuries. His survivor’s guilt was gripping and began a 19-year journey of struggle. Lack of sleep, balance issues, severe PTS made it hard for John to exist. He turned to the VA who prescribed him a cocktail of medicines. Then came the pandemic…forced isolation and loneliness escalated John’s symptoms. He spent days in the dark, with very little interaction.
John’s wife Cheryl, desperate for answers and help, started researching places for him to get care. They found Avalon who connected them with the University of Florida Haley Brain Wellness Program. John’s class was one of the biggest cohorts to date. He reluctantly attended, but by the 3rd day, he knew things were going to be different. After 3 weeks of care, everything changed and he found hope again
Cheryl says she got her husband back. John said he got his life back. And he gained community, something he missed from his days serving. Today, John is thriving. Finally taking that Greek vacation he dreamed of. Finally being the grandpa he hoped he’d become. Finally being himself. A life renewed and hope restored
In John and Cheryl’s own words:
“We found Avalon Action Alliance when we needed it most. We had lost hope in the way John was being treated and didn’t know where else to go after years of searching for help. Everything changed when we were connected to the team at UF Health. We’re finally living the life we envisioned – full of love and hope once again. Avalon’s care is life-changing, and we’ll be forever grateful for the support we received from them.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Avalon Action Alliance Web Site
Alliance Partner Locations
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
PsychArmor Brain Health & Wellness Learning Series - Traumatic Brain Injury. In your work with the Veteran and military-connected community, you may work with a military service member or Veteran who has experienced traumatic brain injury (TBI). While a TBI diagnosis can pose a daunting challenge, there are a number of of both individual and community-based treatments to support warriors in their recovery. The goal of this series is to give you essential information on TBI and the tools and resources to make a difference in the lives of military members who have suffered a brain injury during service. You’ll gain a greater understanding of the statistics behind TBI, common symptoms, diagnostic techniques, and treatment therapies. Warriors can and do recover from the effects of brain injuries and—with your support—acquire new skills to overcome limitations and live fulfilling lives.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/WWP-BHW-TBI
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Special Operations Spouse KaLea Lehman. She is the Executive Director of The Military Special Operations Family Collaborative, a nonprofit public health initiative to enable the success of America’s special operations warriors and families through collaborative health and well-being research and programs.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
KaLea Lehman is the Executive Director of The Military Special Operations Family Collaborative, a nonprofit public health initiative to enable the success of America’s special operations warriors and families through collaborative health and well-being research and programs.
She has a broad range of experience working in healthcare advocacy, communications, and education. KaLea completed her undergraduate education at The George Washington University in 2007 and earned her Master of Education in 2018 from Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College.
Her work and interests are policy research, analysis, and development. Her research interests include organizational behavior in matrix and high reliability organizations and their intersection with well-being. KaLea and her husband have been part of the Special Operations community for over 10 years and have four beautiful children. In their free time, they enjoy running adventures and traveling to new places.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
MSOFC Web Site
The Warrior’s Table Book
MSOFC on Facebook
MSOFC on Instagram
MSOFC on X
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s Resource of the Week is a podcast episode that was previously recorded with Dr. Maguen on the Head Space and Timing Podcast. In this hour-long discussion, Dr. Maguen shares more thoughts on the development, assessment, and treatment of Moral Injury
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/invisible-wounds-at-home-understanding-invisible-wounds
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
This episode features a conversation with Navy spouse Vicky Perkins, Senior Director for Impact Programs at Blue Star Families. Among other programs, Vicky is responsible for leading the team that manages Blue Star Support Circles, facilitated nonclinical cohorts for veterans and service member supporters to help reduce crisis and suicide in the military affiliated population.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Vicky Perkins is a Navy Spouse and dedicated professional with a passion for supporting others. She brings a wealth of experience in non-profit organization management, excelling in Event Management, Program Management, Communication, Volunteer Management, Decision-Making, and Team Building. Her leadership encompasses diverse portfolios specializing in developing, evaluating, and scaling innovative pilot programs nationally and in collaboration with local communities, and her commitment is deeply rooted in serving military families. She passionately works towards positively impacting their lives and the communities they navigate, armed with a nuanced understanding of their challenges.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Blue Star Families Web Site
Blue Star Support Circles
Vicky Perkins on LinkedIn
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the PsychArmor course Suicide in Military Members And Veterans. Dr. Craig Bryan provides an overview of military suicide statistics and explains unique factors that may be related to increased rates in military suicide. You can find a link to the resource in our show notes.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/suicide-in-military-members-and-veterans
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Dr. Julie Goldstein, Director of the Zero Suicide Institute, and Lisa Sabey, President of Parents-to-Parents. We’re going to be talking about a video resource called Parents to Parents: After Your Child’s Suicide Attempt.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Julie Goldstein Grumet, EDC vice president, is an expert in behavioral health transformation, state and local community suicide prevention, and the use of evidence-based practices for suicide care in clinical settings. She translates complex topics into engaging and impactful resources for health care leaders, school leaders, and others.
As director of the Zero Suicide Institute, Goldstein Grumet provides strategic direction and leadership for the Zero Suicide framework and oversees the development, dissemination, evaluation, and effective implementation of the framework nationwide. She leads a team dedicated to ensuring that safe and effective suicide care practices are accessible to all via an online implementation toolkit for suicide care in health care systems.
Goldstein Grumet is the senior health care advisor to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center. A highly acclaimed trainer and speaker, her work has been spotlighted in the Washington Post, Science Magazine, and Military Times.
Goldstein Grumet holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology from George Washington University. She completed a postdoctoral fellowship in School Mental Health at the University of Maryland, School of Medicine, Center for School Mental Health.
Lisa Sabey is mostly a wife, mother and grandmother. She has 6 children, 11 grandchildren and a husband who supports her as she launches into all the projects. Lisa’s life changed when her daughter went down the rabbit hole of anorexia nervosa. For years, mental illness ravaged her daughter’s physical and mental wellness.
After spending thousands of hours researching, reading and talking with professionals, Lisa increasingly realized that parents needed much more education and support. She self-funded the creation of a documentary, Anorexia: What We Wish We Had Known
She committed her life to this work and founded Parents-to-Parents, a 501(c)(3) NPO.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
The Education Development Center Website
The Zero Suicide Institute
Parents to Parents: After Your Child’s Suicide Attempt
Parents to Parents Website
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the VA S.A.V.E. training course. Developed in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, this course presents a general understanding of suicide within the military and Veteran community in the United States. It addresses how to identify a Veteran who may be at risk and teaches viewers what to do to help. Using the simple steps of S.A.V.E., we can all make a difference.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/va-save
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with Denise Olsen, a grief mentor, national public speaker, registered nurse, yoga instructor, and published author. Her book, Strong and Soulful: Graced by Grief is a look at Denise’s personal journey from catastrophic grief and trauma to a life filled with abundance.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Denise Olsen is a Grief mentor, national public speaker, BSN-RN, yoga instructor and now a published author. Through nursing, Denise acquired extensive knowledge of human anatomy and physiology along with trauma experience. After suffering the loss of her husband, a NYC firefighter, on 9/11, Denise utilized yoga, meditation and breathwork to heal. She is a registered yoga instructor with over 300hrs of experience, specializing in the military community, combat related PTSD and military sexual assault. Most recently, her work has evolved into guiding those who have suffered grief/loss and/or trauma through their healing journey. Her work focuses on using our pain as a portal to our highest selves. When Denise isn’t speaking, writing, or traveling, she can be found at her home near the beach enjoying her family and seeking out her next adventure.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Denise Olsen’s Web Site
Strong and Soulful on Amazon
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the PsychArmor course, Good Grief. Grief is not only experienced with death, it can also occur with job loss or severe changes to physical well-being. The purpose of this course is to recognize loss and identify what is learned as a result of that loss.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/good-grief
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we’re featuring a conversation with Kari McDonough, Vice President of Welcome.US and Senior Advisor to the Welcome Fund, a program of Welcome.us that provides a source for grantmaking to organizations as they involve community members to welcome newcomers.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Welcome.US Web Site
The Welcome.US Welcome Corps
Welcome.US Veteran Sponsor Fund Application
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is Episode 47 of the Behind the Mission Podcast. On this episode of Behind the Mission, we have a conversation with Jen Wilson, Co-Founder of the Army Week Association, a New York City-based Nonprofit that provides support to returning service members and their communities. In this episode, we discuss AWA’s mission and how their network was engaged to respond to the need to support US and Coalition Force Allies during the Fall of Kabul
You can see find the resource here:
https://psycharmor.org/podcast/jen-wilson
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with Dr. Khadija Boyd, a retired United States Army Combat Veteran, who is currently the Editor in Chief for the Journal of Veterans Studies. The mission of the Journal of Veterans Studies is to sustain international research in veterans studies, facilitate interdisciplinary research collaborations, and narrow gaps between cultures, institutions, experiences, knowledge, and understanding.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Dr. Khadija Boyd is a Retired United States Army Combat Veteran. She received her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Northcentral University in 2020. Her research and previous publications focus on race and gender discrimination in the military as identified as military colorblindness and military gestational loathing. Also, the use of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) as a filter of racial awareness. She is currently an Editor for the Journal of Veterans Studies and Section Editor for the Journal of Veterans Studies.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
The Journal of Veterans Studies Website
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the PsychArmor course, Advising Military Students on Higher Education. In this course, you’ll see a brief look at higher education options and transition information for military students
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/Advising-Military-Students-on-Higher-Education
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature Veteran Rocio Palermo, Program Coordinator for Women Vets On Point, a program of U.S. Vets. WVOP is designed and informed by women veterans for women veterans in order to address critical needs and barriers to mental health care after military service.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
A native Angeleno, daughter of Honduran and Mexican immigrants, Rocio joined the Navy when she was 17. She returned to Los Angeles and received her AA in Social Studies from Glendale Community College, Bachelor of Arts in American Studies with a double minor in Political Science and Spanish from Mount St. Mary’s University. She studied Public Administration at Cal State University, Northridge.
Rocio has a diverse work history with concentrations in education and social work. She is currently
· the Program Coordinator for Women Vets on Point, U.S.VETS-Patriotic Hall
· She is the chair of the Women Veterans Working Group of the Los Angeles Veteran’s Collaborative
· Chaplain for American Legion Area 6 and District 24.
· The Vice Chair for Women for the Los Angeles County Council of the American Legion.
· Commissioner, Veterans Advisory Commission serving under District 1 Supervisor Hilda Solis.
She brings a passion, focus and personal perspective that helps her connect with all Veterans, but especially with female Veterans. Rocio sees her service to others as a calling and privilege, knowing the importance of finding ways to work together with community partners in order for all to benefit. Her mission in life is to continue to advocate for Veterans, but specifically Veteran Women, so that “every veteran would know how valuable her service is, how important she is and that the nobility with which she served”.
- She is the co-founder of The 355 Women Veteran Speaker Series
- Co-creator of the Battle Boutique, The Sista Mixa, The She Leads Luncheon, Love Your Sister Luncheon, Veteran Women’s Suicide Prevention Conference
- Host of The Networking Hour
Rocio currently lives in Arleta with her son, 4 dogs and 2 cats.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Women Vets On Point Web Site
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is episode 165, a conversation with Deputy Secretary for Women Veterans of the California Department of Veterans Affairs, Air Force Retiree Virginia Wimmer. In this episode, we discuss the importance of supporting women veterans and the services available in California
You can see find the resource here:
https://psycharmor.org/podcast/virginia-wimmer
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature Tom Chiodo, Executive Producer of Special Projects, National Productions for WETA, he flagship PBS station in Washington DC. We discuss the upcoming PBS Documentary, Caregiving, which will examine both systematic issues within the care system as well as tell personal stories of people who care for loved ones.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Tom Chiodo is the executive producer of Special Projects National Productions for WETA (Washington Educational Telecommunications Association), the flagship PBS station in Washington DC. WETA develops primetime documentary films and original digital content, accompanied by national impact and engagement campaigns, across 330+ PBS stations in more than 150 markets.
Recent public media projects: Ken Burns presents Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness, a film by Erik Ewers and Christopher Loren Ewers (2022); Emmy-nominated documentary Ken Burns presents The Gene: An Intimate History(2020); Rethinking High School with Soledad O’Brien Town Hall at Howard University (2016); DuPont Columbia Award & Emmy-nominated documentary Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies (2015).
Current documentary projects in development/production: Caregiving; Hiding in Plain Sight: Adult Mental Illness;Remote Chance: Health Care in Rural America; Defeating Dementia; and Mighty Real: Out and Proud in America.
Thirty years’ experience in the media, communications, television and entertainment industry. Former SVP Development Entertainment Industry Foundation creating programs and funding for national initiatives in health care, volunteerism, childhood hunger and education. Tom has held senior positions at Rubenstein Associates, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Massachusetts Department of Public Health & State Office for Children.
Former clients: HBO; AMC; TIME, Inc.; Wenner Media; Talk Miramax Books; Columbia University; Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Major League Baseball; Dance Theater of Harlem; The Apollo Theatre; Al Roker Entertainment, Inc.; The Tony Awards; Tribeca Film Festival; ABC’s Good Morning America; Stand Up to Cancer; and Chances for Children.
Board memberships: Fenway Community Health Center (Boston), Professional Performing Arts High School (NYC), Heart Gallery New York. National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences judge for the 44th Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards.
Tom is a published playwright, and co-author of “Home Care for Respirator Dependent Children” New England Journal of Medicine.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Wellbeings Web Site
Caregiving Documentary Website
Caregiving Trailer
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the Military Caregiver Recognition Award and Digital Resource Binder. PsychArmor is dedicated to providing education, resources, and strategies for those who provide care for our nation’s wounded, ill and injured military service members and Veterans. The caregiving journey can be challenging — we’re here to provide support. Thanks to the generosity of The USAA Foundation, and in collaboration with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, we are pleased to offer the newly digitized Military Caregiver Recognition Award Program. Upon completion of the four PsychArmor courses included in this program and registration for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation's Hidden Heroes Caregiver Community, you will receive the Military Caregiver Recognition Award and Badge.
You can see find the resource here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/military-caregiver-award
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation that first aired on the Head Space and Timing Podcast on the Psychology of Saving Private Ryan. Dr. Katie Gordon and Dr. Brandon Saxton, hosts of the Jedi Counsel Podcast, join me to explore the film Saving Private Ryan through a mental health and psychology perspective.
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
About Today’s Guests
Katie Gordon has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. She hopes that the Jedi Counsel Podcast is a fun and interesting way to discuss mental health issues. Her favorite fictional character is Wonder Woman.
Brandon Saxton also has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. He hopes that the Jedi Counsel Podcast will serve as a means to get people thinking about mental health and the way that it can influence anyone either directly or indirectly. His favorite fictional character is Bruce Wayne, aka Batman.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
The Jedi Counsel Podcast
Article on Moral Injury
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
The PsychArmor Resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Inner Conflict & Survivor's Guilt. In this course, Dr. Heidi Kraft describes the concept of moral injury and survivor's guilt in the military and Veteran community.
You can see find the course here:
https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/inner-conflict-survivor-guilt
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a replay of a recent PsychArmor Conversations Webcast, an engaging conversation on the past, present, and future of the LGBTQIA+ community in service and beyond. We hosted a diverse panel of individuals with lived experience in both the military and the LGBTQIA community
About Today’s Guests
Allison Jaslow is the CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, an Iraq War Veteran, and a dedicated public servant. Nationally, Jaslow is recognized as a leading voice on the impact of the military-civilian divide on our political system and as an authority on the unique challenges faced by women in the military. A former Army Captain, Jaslow is also a seasoned political and communications strategist, serving on the staff of several Members of Congress, and as a White House communications aide. She’s a former Executive Director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), is a co-Founder of Operation Liberty and has recently served as an Adjunct Professor of the Practice at Duke University.
Larry Hetu-Robert is the Bereavement Services Manager and Veteran Liaison for VITAS Healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia. His duties include educating hospice providers, the medical community and veteran organizations on the end of life needs of veterans. Mr. Hetu-Robert has taken the E.L.N.E.C. (End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium) for Veterans, Train-the-Trainer, coursework and shares his knowledge and expertise in this specialized area of psychosocial and spiritual care for veterans facing illness and death.
Mr. Hetu-Robert has served on many boards, committees, veteran coalitions and veteran service organizations in his attempts to recognize veterans for their service and advocate for their needs. As an Accredited Claims Agent with the Department of Veterans Affairs, he is able to assist veterans in obtaining their VA benefits. He opened the Veteran Information and Referral Office for VITAS Healthcare of Atlanta in Georgia. Mr. Hetu-Robert also cofounded the Veteran and Hospice Partnership of Greater Atlanta and presently serves on the steering committee for this group under the auspices of the Georgia Hospice & Palliative Care Organization.
Arrianna Princess Auva'a Medically retired from the Army after 6 1/2 years of service and now serving in the American Samoa Government Office of Veterans and Military Affairs as the Program Administrator for the Staff Sergeant Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program and Media Director. I am a certified Veterans Service Office via the VFW national training, and event coordinator for our office. I am also serving as the Secretary for the American Samoa Veterans Association, The Adjutant for the American Samoa VFW (Veterans of Foreign War) Post 3391, Secretary of the Society of Fa'afafine in American Samoa (and LGBTQIA+ / Trans Community Organization), and LHS 2004 Alumni President. I am the current chair-person in partnership with the Hawai'i Department of Veterans Affairs for the first ever inaugural Toa Games / Veterans Challenge games in American Samoa.
My passion is in service to my people and the community at large in whatever capacity. I own and operate a platform on Social media in American Samoa with a following of over 300k combined which is the biggest following in American Samoa, and a small business owner of three small businesses. Samoa has four cultural genders – female, male, fa'afafine, fa'atama, and Samoa is considered one of the countries with a highly culturally recognised and pronounced trans and gender diverse population. Fa'afafine and Fa'atama are indigenous LGBTI citizens of Samoa. Fa'afafine translation is "Likeness of a woman". This is my identity. A Fa'afafine, in my native tongue. In western terminology, I am a Transgender Female. Living as a Fa'afafine in American Samoa has given me a platform and a stance for the fight for equality locally and also internationally. Accepting and embracing who I am and my gender identity has given me my voice which is now not only respected, but also taken very seriously.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
LGBTQIA+ Webcast on YouTube
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
The PsychArmor Resource he recent podcast series on LGBTQIA veterans, episode 166 with Erika Hoover and Andrea Norton on the goals of this public health awareness campaign, episode 169 with MaCherie Dunbar and Ashley Carothers on LGBTQIA+ Veteran Healthcare, episode 171 with Ale Hernandez on Myths and Misconceptions about LGBTQIA+ veterans, and the final episode in the series, episode 173 with Erika Hoover and Andrea Norton again, looking to the future of the needs of the community
You can see find the episodes here:
Episode 166 with Erika Hoover and Andrea Norton
Episode 168 with MaCharie Dunbar and Ashley Carothers
Episode 171 with Ale Hernandez
Episode 173 with Erika Hoover and Andrea Norton
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more abou...
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Robin Johnson, CEO of the Best Medicine Brigade and Executive Director of Heal*arious a nonprofit offering therapeutic humor programming for improved psychological performance.
About Today’s Guest
Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Johnson served over twenty years in the U.S. Army before making her transition into the entertainment industry and veteran support space. Her career highlights include five deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, commanding at the company and battalion levels, and serving as the Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
After retiring from the Army, Robin discovered her new mission to heal people, organizations and communities through humor. A strong suicide prevention advocate, Robin founded HEALHARIOUS, a non-profit offering therapeutic humor programming for improved psychological performance. She works in collaboration with mental health clinicians to develop customized programming for veterans, first responders, athletes, and corporate audiences worldwide.
Robin is a Level III Certified Humor Professional through the Association for Applied & Therapeutic Humor and teaches “Problem Framing Through Humor” for the Institute of Defense & Business at Duke University. She is also an internationally touring stand-up comedian, TEDx speaker, and has been featured on USA Today, Fox, and ABC.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Heal*arious Web site
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This episode’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the podcast episode where we featured the Armed Services Arts Partnership, Episode 83 with the Executive Director of ASAP, Brian Jenkins. In that episode, Brian shares about how that creative community provides free art and comedy classes to members of the military affiliated population.
You can find a link to that episode here: https://psycharmor.org/podcast/brian-jenkins
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with Navy Veteran Jenn Kerfoot, Chief Strategy & Growth Officer at DUOS. We talk about accessing healthcare for veterans and a partnership with Humana and a collaborative program to enhance the healthcare experience and improve health outcomes for Louisiana Veteran members of Humana with chronic conditions.
About Today’s Guest
Jenn Kerfoot is the Chief Strategy & Growth Officer at DUOS. DUOS is a company that provides older adults with technology and community to form a trusted relationshiop that supports fulfilling lives at home. Jenn brings her deep understanding of the complexities and nuances within the Medicare Advantage & Value Based Care landscape to their work at DUOS, where they lead business development, go-to-market strategy, and marketing. By leveraging data-driven insights and market intelligence, they spearhead the development of tailored products and services that cater to the unique needs of Medicare Advantage plans and deliver unparalleled value to clients and beneficiaries alike.
As a military veteran, Jenn brings leadership and vision to diverse audiences, and offers a unique perspective within start-ups and high-growth stage companies: previous leadership roles include FarmboxRx, Excelera Health and NationsBenefits. With a passion for organizational mission and values, as well as the unique competitive advantage of establishing a strong culture, Jenn works with all departments to streamline processes and programs that integrate the member experience into every aspect of the business. Beyond their role at DUOS, Jenn actively contributes to the industry's progress as a thought leader leveraging expertise and advocacy for innovative healthcare practices to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
DUOS Website
Humana – DUOS Partnership Announcement
Accessing Healthcare for Veterans Article
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with John Pray, Brig. Gen., USAF (Ret), CEO of Operation Homefront. Operation Homefront provides relief and recurring family support programs and services throughout the year to help military families overcome short-term difficulties so they don’t become long-term hardships
About Today’s Guest
John I. Pray, Brig. Gen., USAF (Ret.) has served as Chief Executive Officer of Operation Homefront since 2015. He credits his parents with instilling the importance of service to others and love of country – two core beliefs that have formed the moral compass John has used to guide all the major decisions in his life. John’s father, a career Army officer who served during World War II, survived both the Bataan Death March and three and a half years as a POW, and the Korean War, believed his mother was the one who deserved special credit for all she had to deal with his long absences and the many uncertainties that characterize military life.
Their example was the driving force behind John’s decision to join the United States Air Force. He retired after serving 27 years in a variety of staff and command assignments, to include the Director of the White House Situation Room, to accept the opportunity serve as the Executive Secretary of the National Security Council during the Bush Administration. Once John left the Federal government, he chose to continue serving our military members and their families. First, in a variety of executive capacities at the United Service Organizations (USO) and since May 2015, as the President/CEO with Operation Homefront, another nationally recognized nonprofit. In his current role, he oversees the fulfillment of the organization’s vital mission – to help build strong, stable, and secure military families so they can thrive, not simply struggle to get by, in the communities they have worked so hard to protect. The Operation Homefront family, consisting of 120 staff members, 20 national board members, over 50 regional advisory council members, nearly 4,000 volunteers, scores of corporate and foundation donors and tens of thousands of individual donors, share a common passion to help our military families in their time of need because of all they have done for all of us in our nation’s time of need.
John holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy and master’s degrees from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the School of Advanced Airpower Studies, and the Air War College. He has also completed senior executive programs at the Columbia University Graduate School of Business, Harvard Business School and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Links Mentioned in this Episode
Operation Homefront Website
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Episode Partner:
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we take a look at year one of the Behind the Mission Podcast, as well as provide listeners with an opportunity to provide feedback on the show
Provide Feedback
As a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.
Episode Partner
Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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Show Summary
On today’s episode, we feature a conversation with Emma Payne, Founder and CEO of HelpTexts, a company that delivers asynchronous grief, caregiver and mental health support via text message.
About Today’s Guest
Emma Payne is a seasoned technology entrepreneur, MIT graduate, and award-winning change-agent, who started building online communities before Netscape was born. Her 25 year career leading online and mobile projects has included building tools to register young people to vote, creating online networks of support for families facing health challenges, and launching North America’s first online crisis intervention line. She also founded a scrappy, action-oriented, national non-profit focused on women & technology, that broke boundaries and developed leaders for 17 years.
Help Texts combines Emma's passion for mobile technology and engagement, with her deep commitment to making sure everyone gets the support they need, when life gets hard. Founded in 2018, Help Texts was the first in the world to publish data on grief-informed texting and is now delivering support in 44 countries and 24 languages.
Links Mentioned In This Episode
HelpTexts Discount Link for Behind the Mission Listeners
PsychArmor Resource of the Week
This week’s PsychArmor resource of the week the PsychArmor course Good Grief. Grief is not only experienced with death, it can also occur with job loss or severe changes to physical well-being. The purpose of this course is to recognize loss and identify what is learned as a result of that loss.
You can see the course here: https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/good-grief
Episode Partner:
This episode is sponsored by PsychArmor. PsychArmor is the premier education and learning ecosystems specializing in military culture content PsychArmor offers an. Online e-learning laboratory that is free to individual learners as well as custom training options for organizations.
Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media
Email PsychArmor
PsychArmor on Twitter
PsychArmor on Facebook
PsychArmor on YouTube
PsychArmor on LinkedIn
PsychArmor on Instagram
Theme Music
Our theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.
Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families. You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com
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