In The Name of Service: Recent Episodes
Dr. Barb Thompson
In The Name of Service is a podcast dedicated to hearing the stories of everyday men and women who have chosen to answer the call to serve in a role with purpose beyond their own comfort or prestige. The purpose of this podcast is to broadcast the character and heart of the persons behind good deeds and inspire the rest of us to follow suite in our own way. Listen in as psychologist and host, Dr. Barb Thompson, dialogues with these behind-the-scenes heroes.
Kevin Housley, a firefighter in Fort Collins, Colorado, shares his journey and experiences in the fire service industry. He talks about growing up in a family with a military background and the values instilled in him by his parents. Kevin discusses how he transitioned from a career in business to becoming a firefighter and the fulfillment he found in serving the community.
He also highlights the day-to-day life of a firefighter, debunking misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of mindset and resilience. Kevin reflects on the meaningfulness of serving the community he grew up in and the impact he has been able to make.
Kevin shares his journey of going back to school and starting a podcast to address the lack of mental skill training in the fire service. He emphasizes the importance of mental performance and resilience in emergency services and the need for formal education in this area. Kevin discusses the positive response he has received from the industry and the changes he has seen in the conversation around mental health and performance. He also highlights the need for embedded psychologists in organizations and the importance of taking care of leaders as well. Kevin encourages listeners to start taking action and chasing what excites them.
Takeaways
The values instilled in Kevin by his parents and his upbringing played a significant role in shaping him into the person he is today.
Kevin's transition from a career in business to becoming a firefighter was driven by a desire for a more fulfilling and meaningful profession.
The day-to-day life of a firefighter involves a combination of training, emergency response, and community engagement.
Having the right mindset and resilience is crucial for firefighters to navigate the challenges and demands of their profession.
Kevin finds great fulfillment in serving the community he grew up in and making a positive impact on people's lives. The fire service lacks formal education and training in mental performance and resilience.
There is a growing conversation around mental health and performance in the industry.
Embedded psychologists can help build high-performing cultures and support individuals throughout their careers.
Taking care of leaders and providing resources for personal and professional development is crucial.
Starting small and being persistent is key to creating positive change.
Chasing what excites you and learning and growing along the way is essential.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:15 Upbringing and Influences
08:06 Career Transition: From Business to Firefighting
14:26 Debunking Misconceptions: The Day-to-Day Life of a Firefighter
19:20 Mindset and Resilience in the Fire Service
25:33 Serving the Community: The Fulfillment of a Firefighter
30:00 Addressing the Gap in Mental Skill Training
43:01 The Growing Conversation around Mental Health
46:06 Integrating Human Performance Psychology
50:35 Starting Small and Chasing What Excites You
Connect with Kevin here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Summary:
Morgane Borzee, co-founder and CEO of Equanima, discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and mental wellness. She shares her personal journey and how her upbringing and experiences shaped her interest in psychology. She emphasizes the need for a solid emotional vocabulary and the value of understanding and expressing emotions. Borzee also highlights the impact of trauma on emotional intelligence and the importance of finding the right therapist. She discusses the creation of Equanima and its tools for emotional intelligence, including cards and interactive experiences. Borzee encourages listeners to listen to their bodies, stay curious, and pursue their values and needs.
Takeaways:
Emotional intelligence is crucial for self-awareness, emotional management, and relationship management.
Having a solid emotional vocabulary is important for understanding and expressing emotions.
Trauma can impact emotional intelligence and the way we handle emotions.
Finding the right therapist is essential for personal growth and healing.
Listening to your body and pursuing your values and needs can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:11 Early Experiences and Interest in Psychology
07:02 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence
11:01 The Impact of Trauma on Emotional Intelligence
13:26 Finding the Right Therapist
15:21 Listening to Your Body and Pursuing Your Values
19:13 Challenges in Building Iquanima
25:22 The Value of Emotional Intelligence Tools
31:00 Taking the First Steps Towards Making a Difference
36:08 Overcoming Fear and Pursuing Authenticity
38:02 Where to Find Equanima
Check out https://www.equanima.io for more information.
Summary
In this conversation, John Dailey, a retired Marine Corps officer and author, discusses his background, military career, and transition to writing. He shares his early desire to join the military and his fascination with books and curiosity. Dailey talks about overcoming challenges and fear, particularly in relation to swimming and combat. He also discusses his writing journey, including the process of publishing his memoir. Dailey emphasizes the importance of motivation and discipline in writing and offers insights on making a difference and finding purpose. He concludes by providing ways to connect and learn more about his work.
Takeaways
*Curiosity and a desire for adventure can drive individuals to join the military and seek new experiences.
*Overcoming challenges and fear is essential for personal growth and achieving goals.
*Writing can be a powerful tool for self-expression and sharing experiences with others.
*Motivation and discipline are key to maintaining a consistent writing practice.
*Making a difference and finding purpose can be achieved in various ways, both within and outside of the military.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:19 Early Desire to Join the Military
08:07 Influence of Books and Curiosity
09:25 Overcoming Challenges and Fear
15:18 Experiencing Combat and Analyzing Performance
18:18 Transition to Writing and Publishing
20:33 Motivation and Discipline in Writing
30:23 Writing for a Civilian Audience
36:02 Making a Difference and Finding Purpose
40:36 Setting Goals and Making Decisions
44:10 Ways to Connect and Find More Information
Summary
In this episode, Barb Thompson interviews Willy Pascua, a former Marine Corps member, about his experiences and reflections on his military service. Willy shares how his early experiences and relationships shaped him into the person he is today. He discusses the significance of his military service, particularly his time in the Marine Corps Special Operations, and the importance of relationships and the impact of loss. Willy also opens up about the difficulties he faced, including the struggle to balance multiple roles and the challenges of transitioning out of the military. He reflects on his journey of self-discovery and finding his identity through faith and service. He shares how he was at his weakest moment when he found a Bible that caught his attention, leading him to realize that God had been with him all along. Willy emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are internally and eternally in order to move forward towards your purpose. He discusses the significance of living out your identity in relationship with others and the importance of serving and loving others. Willy also talks about his journaling practice and his desire to share his thoughts and experiences with others through his writing. You can find Willy's Suffer Better journal on Substack!
Takeaways
Early experiences and relationships play a significant role in shaping a person's character and values.
Military service, particularly in special operations, involves a unique set of challenges and sacrifices.
The most significant aspect of military service is the relationships formed and the impact of loss.
Balancing multiple roles and identities can be difficult for service members, and transitioning out of the military presents its own challenges.
Faith and family can provide support and guidance during difficult times. Knowing who you are internally and eternally is important for moving forward towards your purpose.
Living out your identity is best expressed in relationship with others.
Serving and loving others is a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling life.
Journaling can be a helpful practice for self-reflection and sharing thoughts and experiences with others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
10:04 The Significance of Military Service
25:18 Living Out Identity in Relationship
33:23 Journaling for Self-Reflection and Sharing
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Barb Thompson interviews Joe O'Connor, a veteran who has overcome significant challenges. Joe shares his journey from joining the military to experiencing life-altering injuries. Despite these setbacks, Joe maintains a positive mindset and has found purpose in helping other veterans. He emphasizes the importance of mindset and the power of reaching out to fellow veterans for support. Joe's story highlights the resilience and determination of individuals who have served in the military. Joe discusses his master coaching strategies and techniques, as well as his mission to help one million veterans and business owners achieve their goals. He emphasizes the importance of being present and listening, and the power of asking good questions. Joe also introduces his Pathfinder program, which is designed to help individuals plan for success. He highlights the value of soft skills and the need for effective planning. Joe encourages individuals to find a mentor and offers resources for further support.
Takeaways
Maintaining a positive mindset can help overcome challenges and setbacks.
Connecting with fellow veterans can provide a sense of understanding and support.
Injuries and life-altering events can lead to a reevaluation of priorities and goals.
Helping others can bring purpose and fulfillment.
Being present and listening are key skills in coaching.
Asking good questions leads to better answers.
Finding your why is important for personal and professional success.
Effective planning and soft skills are crucial for achieving goals.
Summary
Lieutenant Colonel retired Isaac Lee shares his journey from growing up in Texas to becoming a combat aviator in the US Marine Corps. He discusses the influence of his childhood and sports on his development, particularly the lessons of mental toughness taught by his father. Isaac emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships and the bonds formed with fellow service members. He also delves into the challenges of balancing military and personal life, especially the difficulty of transitioning between the intense mindset required for combat and the expectations of being a husband and father. Isaac reflects on the mental toll of combat aviation and the need for a short memory to maintain focus and clarity in high-pressure situations. Finally, he shares the catalyst for writing his book, highlighting the importance of sharing stories and seeking reconciliation and closure as combat veterans. Isaac Lee discusses the importance of sharing experiences and finding support in others who have gone through similar situations. He shares how the feedback he received from a friend in the military about his book was rewarding and motivating. Isaac also talks about his decision to stop flying and the satisfaction he found in completing his career as a commanding officer. He emphasizes the importance of counseling in his transition to civilian life and the ongoing process of self-exploration. Isaac discusses the need for excitement and challenge in his life and how he finds it in his work and volunteer activities. He encourages others to serve and help others as a way to better understand themselves.
Takeaways
Childhood experiences and sports can shape an individual's character and provide a foundation for leadership.
Meaningful relationships and camaraderie with fellow service members are often the most rewarding aspects of military service.
Balancing the demands of military and personal life can be challenging, especially when transitioning between intense combat situations and family life.
Combat aviation requires mental toughness and the ability to maintain focus and clarity in high-pressure situations.
Having a short memory, both for mistakes and successes, is crucial for making quick decisions and staying focused. Sharing experiences with others who have gone through similar situations can provide support and remind us that we are not alone.
Receiving feedback and knowing that the book has helped others is extremely rewarding.
Transitioning from a thrilling career like flying can be challenging, but finding new sources of excitement and challenge is important.
Counseling can be helpful in unpacking experiences and understanding oneself better.
Finding excitement and challenge in life is important for personal fulfillment.
Service and helping others can provide a sense of purpose and self-discovery.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:19 The Influence of Childhood and Sports
07:09 Meaningful Relationships in the Military
09:16 The Challenges of Balancing Military and Personal Life
13:27 The Mental Toll of Combat Aviation
22:54 The Journey to Writing the Book
26:30 The Importance of Sharing Experiences
27:24 The Impact of the Book
28:36 The Thrill of Flying and Moving On
30:36 The Benefits of Counseling
35:29 Finding Excitement and Challenge in Life
40:22 Advice for Those Considering Military or Aviation Service
46:40 The Importance of Service and Helping Others
For more information, please visit https://www.isaacglee.com
Summary
In this conversation, Chad shares his military background, experiences, and transition to civilian life. He discusses the importance of culture and leadership in the military, as well as the challenges of transitioning from an Operator to a senior leader. Chad also talks about finding alignment and purpose in his post-military career, including starting a 3D printed drone company. He offers advice for current military members and emphasizes the importance of managing expectations and redefining success. Overall, Chad's story highlights the significance of relationships, authenticity, and finding meaning in life.
Takeaways
The military culture and leadership play a crucial role in shaping the experiences and success of individuals.
Transitioning from an operator to a senior leader requires authenticity, adaptability, and a focus on building trust and improving culture.
Finding alignment and purpose in post-military life involves managing expectations, redefining success, and embracing personal growth.
Building strong relationships, particularly in marriage and family, is essential for personal and professional fulfillment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Gratitude
02:07 Military Background and Transition
03:33 Starting a 3D Printed Drone Company
04:07 Motivation to Join the Military
06:06 Deployments and Facing Adversity
07:01 Desire for Testing and Purpose
08:26 Dealing with Tragedy and Uncertainty
09:56 Balancing Military Life and Family
13:14 The Importance of Culture in the Military
14:56 Leadership and Authenticity
18:20 Building Trust and Improving Culture
20:08 Transitioning from Operator to Senior Leader
21:47 Perceptions of Special Operations Forces
22:46 Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life
23:45 Managing Expectations and Redefining Success
24:17 The Importance of Relationships and Marriage
27:05 Starting a 3D Printed Drone Company
29:31 Finding Alignment and Purpose
33:01 Advice for Current Military Members
35:24 Changing Expectations and Redefining Success
38:04 Living One Day at a Time
39:01 Conclusion and Gratitude
In this episode, Barb Thompson interviews Mackell Phillips, Shelly Kist, and her daughter Lily about their mission trip to Guatemala. They discuss their motivations for going on the trip, the impact it had on their perspectives and contentment, and the importance of carrying the experience forward. They also talk about the role of educators in providing these types of experiences for students and the need for a supportive and encouraging environment. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of mission trips and the importance of prioritizing faith and service in education. The conversation highlights the importance of building a strong team, being intentional and providing support, living with purpose, the life-changing experience of the trip, reflection and encouragement, and continuing the conversation.
Takeaways
Mission trips can provide a perspective shift and increase contentment by exposing individuals to different cultures and challenging their priorities.
Building relationships and fellowship with like-minded individuals is crucial for processing and carrying the mission trip experience forward.
Educators can play a significant role in providing mission trip experiences for students, fostering a culture of faith and service in schools.
Trusting in God's guidance and being flexible are essential when planning and executing mission trips.
Encouraging students to embrace the mission trip experience with excitement and expectation can enhance their engagement and impact. Building a strong team is crucial for success in any endeavor.
Being intentional and providing support can make a significant impact on individuals' experiences.
Living with purpose and being intentional about each day can lead to a fulfilling life.
Mission trips can be life-changing experiences that teach valuable lessons and strengthen faith.
Reflection and encouragement are important for personal growth and motivation.
Continuing the conversation and sharing experiences can inspire others to take similar actions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:04 Background and Motivation for Mission Trips
03:00 Perspective Shift and Contentment
13:20 Student Perspective and Encouragement
24:29 Personal Impact and Reflection
29:35 Carrying the Experience Forward
34:09 Changing the Culture of the School
40:07 Encouragement for Educators
49:56 Building a Strong Team
50:24 Intentionality and Support
51:16 Living with Purpose
52:14 Life-Changing Experience
53:14 Reflection and Encouragement
53:44 Continuing the Conversation
Summary
This episode of 'In the Name of Service' features a conversation about personal experiences with suicidal ideation and the importance of addressing mental health struggles. The guests, Brandon, Leslie, and Evan, share their own stories and discuss the impact of humility, love, and connection in overcoming these challenges. They emphasize the need for support, faith, and engaging in activities that bring joy and healing.
The conversation highlights the complexity of suicide and the importance of reaching out to others who may be struggling. This conversation explores the themes of feeling worthless, the tactic of isolation, the experience of suicidal thoughts, finding hope and purpose, helping others combat this enemy, personal experience with loss and helping others, the impact of tragedy, the multifaceted nature of the battle, combatting lies and finding community, continuing the conversation, and the assurance of God's presence.
Takeaways
Feeling worthless and isolated is a common experience for those struggling with mental health issues. The tactic of isolation is used by the enemy to make individuals feel alone and helpless. Sharing personal experiences of struggle and recovery can help others find hope and purpose. Community and support from others are essential in combating the enemy and finding healing. Reading and studying the Scriptures can provide depth and understanding in the journey of faith.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:58 Personal Experiences with Suicidal Ideation
12:18 The Importance of Humility and Love
18:15 The Power of Connection and Reaching Out
22:10 Finding Rest and Joy in Faith
25:44 Lessons Learned from Personal Struggles
30:28 The Impact of Pride and the Need for Support
37:13 The Role of Outdoor Activities in Healing
46:59 The Importance of Faith, Service, and Passion
47:28 Understanding the Complexity of Suicide
50:12 Feeling Worthless and Isolated
51:08 The Tactic of Isolation
52:07 The Experience of Suicidal Thoughts
53:35 Finding Hope and Purpose
54:34 Helping Others Combat the Enemy
54:50 Personal Experience with Loss and Helping Others
55:20 The Tragic Loss of a Brother
56:17 The Devastating News and Tragedy
57:45 The Spiral of Addiction and Loss
59:10 The Impact of Tragedy on Family
01:00:08 Recognizing the Call to Ministry
01:01:38 The Importance of Humility and Personal Experience
01:04:04 The Impact of Brokenness in Ministry
01:05:50 The Multifaceted Nature of the Battle
01:06:25 Combatting Lies and Finding Community
01:08:28 Contact Information
01:09:19 Continuing the Conversation
Summary
Dr. Graham Danzer, a forensic criminal and clinical psychologist, shares his journey and experiences in the field of psychology. He discusses his background, inspiration, and the challenges he has faced. Dr. Danzer also talks about the importance of cross-training with law enforcement and the need for psychologists to be more involved in the field. He offers advice for those interested in pursuing a career in psychology and serving in high-risk environments.
Takeaways
- Psychologists in high-risk environments, such as forensic and criminal psychology, face unique challenges and require specialized training.
- Cross-training with law enforcement can provide valuable insights and skills for psychologists working in high-risk settings.
- Psychologists should be proactive in seeking mentorship and learning opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills.
- There is a need for psychologists to be more involved in law enforcement and other high-risk fields to better serve individuals and make a positive impact.
Chapters
00:00Introduction
01:02Background and Inspiration
04:29Forensic Criminal and Clinical Psychology
08:03Challenges and Frustrations in the Field
14:04Becoming a Psychologist
16:08Difficulties and Obstacles in the Career
18:42Dealing with Loneliness and Isolation
20:52Cross-Training with Law Enforcement
29:04Pipeline for Psychologists in Law Enforcement
32:46Preparing for a Career in Service
38:35Advice for Those Wanting to Serve
41:16Conclusion
Please welcome Jeff Marriott, Veteran and Co-Founder of Vet's Retreat Virginia. Vet's Retreat Virginia is a three-year-old nonprofit organization that focuses on military, first responder, and family health and wellness. They provide peer-to-peer support and organize events and activities in the areas of entertainment and athletics. The organization aims to create a safe space for veterans and first responders to come together and support each other. They also offer resources and referrals for more specialized needs. The team behind Vet's Retreat Virginia is dedicated to their mission and is working towards establishing a 24-hour operations center. They rely on word of mouth and community involvement to spread awareness and provide support.
Takeaways
- Everyone has something positive to offer. All you need is a willing heart.
- Small things matter like taking down barriers such giving someone a ride to an event or medical appointment or sharing resources with Veterans who may not be online.
- Vet's Retreat Virginia provides peer-to-peer support and organizes events and activities for veterans and first responders.
- The organization aims to create a safe space for individuals to come together and support each other.
- Vet's Retreat Virginia offers resources and referrals for more specialized needs.
- The team behind Vet's Retreat Virginia is dedicated to their mission and is working towards establishing a 24-hour operations center.
- Their 24hr peer-to-peer support line is 1-888-906-4593.
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Barb Thompson interviews Michael Halterman, a former Marine infantryman and special operations veteran. Michael shares his journey from a small town in California to serving in the military and transitioning to civilian life. He discusses the challenges he faced, including ego, addiction, and the search for purpose. Michael also highlights the importance of gratitude and the work he does with The Honor Foundation and their newest program, Vector Accelerator, to support veterans in their transition. This conversation explores the complexities of military service and the ongoing process of finding meaning and fulfillment in life after service. Michael discusses the changing world order and the challenges it presents, the difficulty of finding truth in a world filled with noise, the importance of answering the call to serve, and concludes with gratitude and excitement for future endeavors. You can reach out to Michael on LinkedIn by searching Michael G. Halterman.
Takeaways
Transitioning from military to civilian life is a complex process that goes beyond a checklist of tasks.
Challenges such as ego, addiction, and the search for purpose can impede personal growth and hinder successful transition.
Practicing gratitude can have a profound impact on one's mindset and overall well-being.
Support programs like The Honor Foundation and Vector Accelerator play a crucial role in helping veterans navigate the transition process and find meaning in their post-military lives. The world order is changing rapidly, with new technologies and contested global norms.
Finding signal from noise is increasingly difficult, but essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Answering the call to serve, in any capacity, can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.
Gratitude and excitement for the future are important attitudes to maintain.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:32 Meeting Michael Halterman
02:00 Michael's Background
03:29 Joining the Marines Infantry
04:22 First Combat Experience
06:19 Standout Experience
07:29 Influences in Upbringing
08:46 Challenges Faced
11:25 The Power of Struggle
12:13 Transitioning to Civilian Life
14:22 Worldview After Military Service
16:19 Challenges Faced During Service
17:42 Dealing with Ego
19:53 Reflecting on Personal Challenges
21:45 The Importance of Gratitude
23:27 The Honor Foundation and Vector Accelerator
29:07 The Challenges of Transition
37:19 The Changing World Order
39:47 Finding Signal from Noise
41:16 Answering the Call to Serve
43:30 Conclusion
In this episode, Dr. Barb Thompson interviews Ashley Windle, a former Air Force member, about his military career and personal experiences. Ashley shares his journey from being a vehicle maintenance technician to becoming a first sergeant. He reflects on the sacrifices and rewards of service, as well as the challenges of navigating leadership roles. Ashley also discusses the importance of coping with difficult experiences and recognizing signs of struggle. Additionally, he shares the story behind his business, Monkey Collective (@monkey_collective on IG), which combines his passion for military members and sewing. Ashley shares his journey of starting Monkey Collective and how it has become a way for him to have fun, make people happy, and give back to other non-profit organizations. The name Monkey Collective holds a special meaning for Ashley, representing his love for monkeys and the idea of a collaborative community. Through Monkey Collective, Ashley has connected with people from all over the world and found support and friendship. He encourages others to be open to opportunities and have faith in the process of finding their own calling.
Takeaways
Service in the military requires sacrifice and selflessness, but it also offers the opportunity to make a difference and be part of something bigger.
Leadership roles in the military often come with great responsibility and require navigating relationships and making tough decisions.
Coping with difficult experiences and recognizing signs of struggle is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being.
Finding creative outlets and pursuing personal passions can provide a sense of fulfillment and contribute to overall happiness. Find something that you enjoy and want to serve in, and use it as a way to give back and make a positive impact.
Building a community and connecting with others who share similar experiences and passions can be incredibly rewarding.
Be open to opportunities and have faith in the process of discovering your purpose and making a difference.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:58 Meeting Ashley Wendell
02:00 Ashley's Background and Air Force Career
06:22 Influences from Childhood
09:31 Decision to Join the Air Force
10:42 Reflection on Military Experience
19:49 Sacrifice and Reward of Service
23:50 Navigating Leadership Roles
30:54 Coping with Difficult Experiences
34:08 Recognizing Signs of Struggle
44:08 Creation of Monkey Collective
47:26 Starting Monkey Collective
48:14 Donating and Giving Back
49:00 The Meaning Behind Monkey Collective
50:25 Connecting with Others
51:24 Advice for Those Who Want to Serve
53:03 Having Faith in the Process
54:06 The Impact of the Podcast
55:22 Encouraging Others to Take Action
In this inspiring episode of "In the Name of Service," I had the pleasure of speaking with Abi Ray, a licensed marriage and family therapist, founder and editor-in-chief of Legacy Magazine, and a military spouse. Abi and I reminisced about our time working together on what we both consider one of the greatest teams on earth. Her unique contributions to our team were invaluable, and her dedication to serving military families through her work is truly commendable.
We also discussed the challenges and rewards of being a military spouse, emphasizing the importance of community and the shared experiences that forge deep connections. She spoke candidly about the uncertainty that comes with military life and how she learned to anchor her identity in core values rather than job titles or roles. We touched on the emotional toll of working with individuals facing loss and hardship, and Abi highlighted the honor of being invited into someone's vulnerability. She stressed the importance of self-care and the transformative power of enduring grief with others.
Don't miss this incredible episode of the "In the Name of Service" podcast. Abi's story will leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference. Join me to this episode of In The Name of Service podcast as I share the stories of these amazing individuals.
Connect with Abi Ray:
Website: https://www.legacymagazine.org/pages/about-us
In this inspiring episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Ryan Teubner, a dear friend from middle school. He is a Producer at Rich & Cartmill. Ryan has always been a shining light, radiating love and encouragement to everyone around him. His story truly embodies the spirit of service and making a difference.
We discuss Ryan's upbringing in Stillwater, Oklahoma, his close connections with Alton Carter and John Dodson, and how these relationships have influenced his personal and professional life. We also touch on Ryan's passion for his work in the insurance industry, despite its negative connotations, and his commitment to helping others. Ryan discusses the challenge of comparing oneself to others. He acknowledges that many people fall into this trap, ultimately leading to negative outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating the right mindset to overcome this challenge.
Tune in to this inspiring episode of In the Name of Service to hear Ryan Teubner’s incredible story of resilience and dedication.
If you want to connect with Ryan, here is his contact information:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-teubner-cic-b5ab32b/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RyanTeubner
In this episode, I am joined by John Hamilton who worked as Air Force Special Operations PJ and now runs his own business. Hamilton opens up about his childhood, growing up with a father who was a decorated Vietnam veteran. He shares his desire to fill his father's shoes and how he ended up joining the military. Hamilton discusses his interest in helicopters and medicine and his decision to not become a 68 Whiskey. He also emphasizes the importance of implementing military skills, such as organizational structures, into his business. Listening to John's interview reminded me of the importance of finding our "why" and striving to make a difference in the world. His advice on gratitude and reflection really resonated with me. It's incredible to see how far he has come.
Tune in to the "In the Name of Service" podcast to hear John Hamilton's incredible journey and gain insights into the mindset of those who serve at the highest level. You will want to watch this episode!
If you want to connect with John, here are her contact information:
Instagram: @invested_in_realestate
Today, I will introduce Amanda Hoenes, whom I was introduced to through Sabrina Stringfield. Sabrina is an amazing social worker with whom I had the privilege of working for a few years at my previous unit. Amanda Hoenes, an author, adventurer, entrepreneur, and United States Marine, has learned valuable lessons about facing fears, overcoming obstacles, and achieving success. From a small town in Missouri to various adventures worldwide, Amanda's experiences have shaped her into a resilient individual who embraces growth both personally and professionally. This incredible journey taught her the importance of perseverance, patience, faith, and hard work.
Listen in as Amanda Hoenes shares her Marine Corps experiences, including deployments to Iraq, as a woman in a male-dominated field. She discusses the challenges faced and lessons learned during the journey.
If you want to connect with Amanda, here are her contact information:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-hoenes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaHoenes
Website: https://www.amandahoenes.com/
inthenameofserviceWelcome to another episode of "In the Name of Service," where we share the untold stories of selfless individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others. our host Dr. Barb Thompson.In this episode, Dr. Barb Thompson interviews Maria, a former colleague and social worker. Maria's story exemplifies the selflessness and dedication of those in service roles. Join us as we delve into Maria's unique path and her desire to be part of something bigger.Maria's story exemplifies the desire to make a difference and be part of something bigger. Tune in to hear Maria's inspiring journey as a social worker and the impact she has made in her field.Timestamps:00:05:10 Autonomy and support shape individuals.00:05:30 Discovering passion through unexpected paths.00:11:27 Feeling alone vs being alone.00:21:55 Normalize asking for help sooner.00:25:38 Importance of talking and seeking support.00:30:50 Accept yourself with imperfections.00:35:10 Support and values drive success.Key Highlights:* Success lies in utilizing available resources and managing stress effectively.
- Seeking help early is now seen as a proactive measure.
- It takes courage to recognize when help is needed.
- Utilizing resources and support enables effective stress management.
- Communication provides manifold benefits like improved sleep and problem-solving.
- Talking freely in a non-judgmental environment has a profound impact on wellbeing.
Join Dr. Barb Thompson in another powerful episode of the "In the Name of Service" podcast. Meet Christine, an athletic trainer, mom, and military spouse, as she shares her inspiring journey into this unique world. Christine delves into her work with high-performing military units, discussing the challenges she faced and how she adapted to the military environment. She opens up about maintaining a strong support network while balancing her roles as a mother and professional. This conversation reminds us of the value of recognizing and addressing mental health, seeking support, and navigating life's difficulties with faith and a strong support network. Timestamps:0:01:00 Career, family, and education with a military spouse and athletic trainer. 0:02:37 Athletic training career path and online teaching. 0:08:51 Military athletic training career path. 0:11:11 Challenges and rewards of working in a Special Operations military environment. 0:17:01 Mental health support for injured service members. 0:20:17 Balancing work and motherhood after postpartum anxiety. 0:26:02 Balancing work and family responsibilities. 0:28:56 Military spouse life, challenges, and resilience. 0:33:29 Prioritization and balance as a military spouse. 0:37:05 Maintaining humility and mental health as a military spouse. 0:43:23 Being an athletic trainer and supporting spouses in the military. 0:46:12 Passion, purpose, and perseverance in a military spouse's journey.Key Highlights:* Find a balance between personal and professional life, which can be challenging, especially in high-stress environments. * Seeking help and leaning into one's faith or support network can be instrumental in overcoming such difficulties. * Working with high-performing military units can be emotionally and mentally challenging, particularly when dealing with injuries and setbacks. * The recognition of the vulnerability of high-performing individuals when they face setbacks highlights the importance of providing them with physical and emotional support during their recovery. * There is value in reaching out for support when needed. * It is important to be humble and to not underestimate the challenges and sacrifices of military life, whether as a military spouse or a professional. * Keep one's sense of purpose and passion alive, as it can be a driving force in the face of difficulties.
In today's episode, Ryan introduces himself first and foremost as a parent. More specifically, a person trying to be a good parent. I know we all can relate to this. Ryan is a Navy Veteran, Former Professional Firefighter, CrossFit gym owner, and real estate investor. While his story is incredible and adventurous, what Ryan believes about all of us is what is most inspiring. He believes that being a good parent begins with the foundation of being a good person and shares that with the world because he's seen and experienced the lack of resources for fathers seeking true and positive connections with their children. Listen in as Ryan coaches us on our perspective of the past, the power of thoughts, beliefs, and words, and why "doing the best I can" isn't a phrase that can be applied to human beings.
Welcome to Episode 21 with US Army Officer and Operational Psychologist, Dr. Bobby Sidell. I first met Bobby in Boston in 2008 at an annual convention for psychologists and psychology students. I was in the last year of my doctoral program and hoping to solidify and clarify my next steps by choosing some internship opportunities most aligned with my desires. Bobby had already deployed and served in a number of roles and was the most genuine person I spoke to during the entire conference. He didn't sugarcoat the truth but gave me confidence in the rewards of service in the military. That was the beginning of a career I've been beyond blessed to journey through. I cannot wait for you to hear Bobby's story. If you'd like to connect with Bobby, you can find him on LinkedIn or email him directly at spiritusinvictusllc@gmail.comI hope this episode encourages you. Thank you for listening!For more information on the training pipelines offered by US Army Special Operations, click here: https://www.goarmysof.army.mil/
Child of a Vietnam Veteran, Spouse to a GWOT Veteran, and Mental Health Provider for Veterans and their Families, Celeste has a lot to share. Listen to Celeste's story and experience her wisdom and joy!
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.” Brene BrownJoin me today in hearing Christine Conley’s story. She served as Military Police in the Navy for 12 years in a number of roles such as Criminal Investigator, Security Specialist, Personal Protection, and Weapons/High-Risk Instructor in places all over the globe like Washington, Bahrain, Virginia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. She now serves as the Director of Programs for the Boulder Crest Foundation https://www.bouldercrest.org. You don’t want to miss out on her courage and wisdom. And check out one of her favorite resources, Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma https://www.amazon.com/Struggle-Well-Thriving-Aftermath-Trauma/dp/1544510373/ref=asc_df_1544510373?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80401841891188&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584001427666652&psc=1
Welcome to Episode 18, and the final episode of season 1, of the In The Name of Service Podcast. I’m your host, Dr. Barb Thompson. Here we broadcast stories of every day men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Brett Crozier, recently retired Navy Captain and Operations lead for the California-based non-profit Veterans Village of San Diego. As part of his 30 year Navy career, Brett was the ultimate go-getter, his drive fueled by an insatiable desire to learn, grow, and improve. He graduated from the Naval Academy in Annapolis, became a Helicopter pilot, then a Fighter pilot, a US Navy Nuclear Power School graduate, and finally, the appointment that ultimately drew the world’s focus onto him in March 2020: Commanding Officer of the USS TheodoreRoosevelt, the most prestigious carrier in the US fleet. That’s when COVID-19 spread through the ship like wildfire, leading Brett to take steps that protected the lives of his 5,000 Sailors, but ultimately led to his dismissal. And he wouldn’t change a thing about it.Brett is the ultimate paradox: a career military professional whose exploits led to the highest levels of leadership, but also a kind, gentle, and forthright human being whose philosophies on living a better life make him extremely approachable. In his book SURF WHEN YOU CAN: Lessons in Life, Loyalty, and Leadership from a Maverick Navy Captain, Brett reflects on his life, career, and commitment to doing the right thing in a book that celebrates the power of kindness, the importance of teamwork, and the value of standing up for what you believe in. Through a series of captivating stories set all around the world, he takes us along on the grand adventures of his extraordinary career and introduces the incredible people he met along the way. Among the unexpected lessons included in its pages are: When in Doubt, Be Kind, Never Turn Down an Espresso, Learn Like You’re Going to Live Forever, Stand Up for What You Believe In, No Matter the Consequences, And Surf When You Can. I hope this conversation drives home the idea that anyone, and I mean anyone can start right now making an impact in the world around them. For more information on Brett, his book Surf When You Can, or Veterans Village of San Diego, please see below.. Thank you for listening!Amazon link to Surf When You Can: https://www.amazon.com/Surf-When-You-Can-Leadership/dp/1982191007/ref=sr_1_1?crid=U0FZBHXFO6HB&keywords=surf+when+you+can+by+captain+brett+crozier&qid=1687175673&sprefix=surf+when+yo%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1Veterans Village of San Diego: https://www.vvsd.net
Welcome to Episode 17 of the In the Name of Service Podcast with host and psychologist, Dr. Barb Thompson. Here, she broadcast stories of everyday men and women who’ve answered a call to serve others in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Ashley Wilson, counseling psychology graduate student at Liberty University. You’ll quickly realize that Ashley’s interview is a bit different from those previous to hers. Ashley’s story is exceptional not because she can reflect on a long career of service she’s already endured, but because she embodies the incredible character necessary to serve others well even at a young age. Barb knew Ashley from a distance when Ashley was in High School because they attended the same church. Since then, she’s had the privilege of watching Ashley grow these last few years and admire how courageously she faces life's twists, turns, and even tragedies with grace and wisdom beyond her years. Whether it’s facing the fact that her life-long dream of being in Vet medicine wasn’t going to happen, or the loss of her brother to suicide, Ashley may be young, but has no less experience in loss. Today Ashley speaks about how early in life she felt an additional responsibility to serve others, her journey in learning the difference between interests and giftings, the importance of gaining perspective through mission trips to Honduras, Costa Rica, and Uganda, and the lesson that through the toils of life, we become stronger. I hope this episode encourages you to keep taking that next right step in your own story and that it also highlights the importance of nourishing the lives of the young people in your life. Thank you for listening!
Welcome to episode 16 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Here we broadcast stories of everyday men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Derek Jump, a prior Marine, Veteran Advocate, and Entrepreneur. Derek shares with us about his struggles following a rich military career of 10 years and 2 deployments to Iraq, including the infamous Battle of Fallujah. The impetus for the battle began in March 2004 when four American private military contractors from Blackwater USA were ambushed and killed in Fallujah. U.S. Marine forces then launched Operation Vigilant Resolve to take the city back from insurgents. Although the operation ended in late April, the battle to keep Fallujah from being overtaken by insurgents lasted into 2005. Derek’s unit lost 19 of their brothers during that time, changing him forever, and teaching him the preciousness of life. Derek courageously describes his struggles with depression and addiction following his military career and how getting around other Veterans and doing what he could to help others was a much-needed boost to his mental health. He highlights the importance of being fully transparent about your story and how, as difficult as that is, it can go a long way to positively impact others. Derek encourages us to find our why, admittedly easier said than done, so that it can help keep us moving forward when life gets difficult. To connect with Derek or learn more about the 3/ 5 Marines and the Battle of Fallujah, please see the show notes. Thank you for listening!To Connect with Derek:https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekjumpmotivated?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BK0B5kLFVTtuxPiDswugpwA%3D%3DThe 3/ 5 Marines and the Battle of Fallujah:https://mca-marines.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Assault-and-Capture-of-Fallujah-Pt.-II.pdfThird Battalion, Fifth Marines:https://www.1stmardiv.marines.mil/Units/5TH-MARINE-REGT/3rd-Battalion/
Welcome to Episode 15 of the In The Name of Service Podcast. I’m your host, Dr. Barb Thompson. Here we broadcast stories of every day men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way.
Today’s interview is with Ben Davis, former Navy SEAL and Director of Veterans Outdoor Advocacy Group or “VOAG”. VOAG’s all-volunteer team works to enable access to outdoor adjunct therapies for all Veterans in need by promoting the benefits of outdoor adjunct therapy for Veterans by delivering research and advocacy, while driving access, proving efficacy, and perpetuating the well-being of our public lands. Ben and his team do the work that most of us in helping roles despise; developing relationships with lawmakers, earning a seat at the table in legislative efforts, and creating a way for those of us hoping to help to actually do so.
Although he works full-time as a cyber security specialist, Ben is also leading a team of bright and driven individuals already successful in advocating for the passing of the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act in 2020, bringing attention at the national level that many Veterans have been helped by spending time in nature as an adjunct to traditional medical or mental health treatment. Additionally, they have founded the VOAG Coalition which is a gathering of partners collaborating to mutually support ongoing veteran outdoor experiences and to establish standards of quality and best practices for outdoor therapy implementation.
If you would like more information on VOAG, would like to contribute directly to VOAG, or are part of a program that would like to collaborate with VOAG, please check out the show notes. There you will also find one of my favorite projects VOAG completed in 2022 called the 31 in 31 Project. This project focused on the men who died aboard a CH-47 helicopter on August 6th, 2011; call sign “Extortion 17”. 31 Americans and 7 Afghan Nationals were killed that night resulting in the greatest individual loss of life for the U.S. Forces during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Over the course of 31 weeks, between 1 January, 2022 and August 6th, 2022 VOAG and its Coalition partners, took 31 Veterans into the outdoors in various capacities. These trips ranged from climbing, hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, to hunting and fishing. All of these trips will focus on remembering one of the 31 who were killed more than 10 years ago in the Hindu Kush Mountains. My son, Jonas, is named after Jonas Kelsall, a friend of my husband Jared, and a Navy SEAL Officer aboard the aircraft. It holds additional dearness to me because of the 3 AF Special Tactics Airmen also aboard, TSgt John Brown, SSgt Andrew Harvell, and TSgt Daniel Zerbe, whose unit I had the opportunity to serve from 2016-2022. The call to action is this, let’s get Ben and his team the metrics they need to advocate for Veterans and the programs serving them. If you are a Veteran or a care provider with experience incorporating adjunctive outdoor therapy, you can find VOAG contact information on their website. Thank you for listening!For more information: www.voag.org
Welcome to Episode 14 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Here, we broadcast stories of everyday men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Kelvin Gumbs. Kelvin is a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and was raised in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where I had the pleasure of meeting him. After graduating from high school, Kelvin entered Enlisted Naval Service in 2000 and was commissioned as a Chief Warrant Officer 16 years later. During his time in the U.S. Navy Kelvin has supported and led at various levels and served onboard: Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, an amphibious command ship, strike fighter and reconnaissance squadrons, the Pentagon, headquarters units across the Pacific theater, National Capital Region, and a Geographic Combatant Command in Europe. Kelvin retired from the Navy in the fall of 2022 from Naval Education and Training Command as the Staff Executive Officer and Director of Administration and now manages the online education military strategy for Purdue University. He is also a Leadership, Performance, and Safety Coach with CAVU International. Kelvin is married, he is a proud father of two teenagers and an avid runner.Kelvin starts our conversation by warning the rest of you that he's just a normal guy; no major heroics or death-defying feats to highlight here. You'll quickly understand, however, why I think his story is worth telling and his wisdom worth sharing. I hope you'll listen as Kelvin takes us through his experiences in the Navy and beyond, how he learned from failure, worked hard, earned his teammates' trust, and maximized his contributions. His lessons are simple but critical; one of my favorites is that relationships matter. His call to action is simple- BE OF ACTION! There is ALWAYS a path to take.I highly recommend connecting with Kelvin on Facebook where you’ll see his daily running adventures and inspiration and on linkedIn where you can keep up with the leadership teams he’s helping or what Purdue has to offer. Please see below for some important links to more information on Purdue, CAVU, and to watch a video on Kelvin put together by Purdue. Thank you for listening!INFO on Purdue OIP is here: https://www.purdue.edu/research/industry-partners/INFO on CAVU mission is here: https://www.cavu-intl.com/about Video piece done by Purdue on Kelvin: https://stories.purdue.edu/naval-officer-complements-leadership-skills-with-purdue-global-degree/ and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6666K1OA1tY
Welcome to Episode 13 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Here we broadcast stories of men and women who've answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today's interview is with Dr. Donell Barnett. Donell is a husband, father, Psychologist in the Army Reserves, Mental Health Administrator for the state of Illinois, and the President of the Association of Black Psychologists. I hope you'll listen to Donell's unique service story, how he moved a long way from home to become the first college graduate of his family, and how he stumbled into role after role, never forgetting to continue learning and exploring along the way.I had the fortune of meeting and living life alongside Donell during our doctoral program in psychology at Oklahoma State University. Poor Donell was the only male in our cohort, and he always brought a sense of calm to our stormy days and joy in the midst of chaos. And don't get me started on his amazing singing voice! Donell has grown into a leader in several communities and now battles against the current mental health crisis. His wisdom and perspective brought so much comfort to my soul in this conversation as he talks through how he envisions us all working together for brighter days. I hope you will heed his advice when he says to just jump into action when it comes to using your unique position in this world and that you truly believe that you were born for a purpose, as he says. Thank you for listening!
Welcome to episode 12 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. I’m your host, Dr. Barb Thompson. Here we broadcast stories of everyday men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Michael Sugrue. Michael is an Air Force Veteran, Retired Law Enforcement Officer, author, and father.In today’s conversation, Michael tells us his story, taking us back to a traumatic critical incident one Friday morning that completely changed his life and how the hundreds of accounts of trauma in his law enforcement career eventually led to his book Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma. Listen in to hear how Michael turned a life full of trauma into one filled with hope and a purpose to save countless other first responders by demolishing the stigma of asking for help.Michael is courageous and full of humility. His desire to rescue may have begun when he was just 8 years old looking up to his stepfather during his career in law enforcement, but it is now fully coming to fruition. Michael suffered from post-traumatic stress for several years before finding a trusted and competent therapist. The negative stigma of asking for help at the time kept him believing that his symptoms made him weak, that he couldn’t feel the way he did and still be a warrior. He was ashamed to speak about it and suffered in silence for years. However, he is living proof, as he says, that real strength and courage are demonstrated in one’s act of asking for help when it’s needed. He believes that the strength and power of sharing his story…or your story…is where true healing begins.If you have ever dealt with trauma or are dealing with it now, please listen. And if you know any first responders, please share this with them or go ahead and buy Relentless Courage on their behalf and send it to them. This book is saving lives and helping those of us close to first responders better understand them and their experiences. Michael had the opportunity to co-author this book with psychologist Dr. Shauna Springer, who also wrote the book WARRIOR: How to Support Those who Protect Us. If you’re in the military or law enforcement, you are probably well versed on Lt Col Dave Grossman’s books, On Combat and On Killing, which I know from personal experience have been excellent resources for the people I’ve worked with in the Special Operations community. Speaking of Michael’s book Relentless Courage, Grossman says, “it is truly the natural and essential successor to my book On Combat”. For a direct link to Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma, please see the show notes. Michael enjoys connecting with first responders and those that support them from all over the world; consider connecting with him on social media. Thank you for listening! To Purchase Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma, click the link below:https://www.amazon.com/RELENTLESS-COURAGE-Winning-Against-Frontline/dp/1736824414
Welcome to episode 11 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Today’s interview is with Trevor B West. Trevor is a prior Air Force Special Operations Intelligence Analyst, real estate agent, energetic and entertaining emcee, and entrepreneur.In today’s conversation, Trevor takes us through his own story, highlighting a pivotal point in his life when an unexpected and major injury left him alone with his thoughts and completely changed the trajectory of his life. Listen in to hear how Trevor turns what could be perceived as tumultuous & difficult experiences into a story of life, hope, and purpose.If you’ve ever been fearful of the future or confused about the present, feeling as though you’re just going through the motions in life, I hope you’ll listen to Trevor’s story. Fear, he says, caused him to take action. In humility, he chose to take just one step forward believing that even if he fails, even if he makes a wrong step, life’s GPS will re-route him using the shortest distance possible to get him back on track and that the detour may just be the most scenic part of the trip.Trevor is so much fun and this episode is chock full of laughing at our mistakes and finding joy in the midst of it all. That’s what it’s like to talk to or listen to Trevor, it’s just a joy-filled place. Do not miss one of the greatest takeaways in this conversation and that is that people tend to underestimate the power of encouragement, especially those that feel called to do the encouraging. Trevor believes that God speaks through people and that means you! So today, I hope this episode encourages you to keep planting seeds in others, believing that in due time, they will grow into something amazing. If you’d like to be encouraged regularly, check out how to stay in touch with Trevor in our show notes. There you can also get links for some of the books he recommends early in our conversation. Thank you for listening!Books Trevor Recommends:Rich Dad, Poor DadThink and Grow RichThe Richest Man in BabylonHow to stay in touch with Trevor:https://www.instagram.com/bettertrevor/https://www.facebook.com/trevor.west.948/https://www.tiktok.com/@bettertrevor?lang=enwww.trevorbwest.com (coming soon)
Welcome to episode 10 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Today’s interview is with Michelle Lang. Michelle is a military spouse, mother of three, and founder of Veteran Help Point, a nonprofit building a fluid and intuitive database for veterans and their families who need resources but don’t know where or how to find them.In today’s conversation, Michelle takes us through her own story, highlighting some of the painful experiences that fueled her fire to support others today. Specifically, Michelle speaks about the difficulties she and her husband faced during his military service as well as during a break in service, how frustrating and hopeless it can be in the role of a military spouse, and how she had to first humble herself, let go of pride and ego and get help BEFORE she could be of help to her husband.If you’ve ever been discouraged by trying to support someone when you have no idea what is going on in their head or are confused by sudden “avalanches of emotion” as Michelle describes, this episode is for you. It can be difficult being a military spouse for several reasons like unknown future assignments and deployments, difficulties getting plugged in to new friend circles, finding work that is meaningful to you, or raising kids by yourself while your spouse is training or deployed. Michelle has dealt with all of these and more yet she says today that the military has actually made her family stronger, that her marriage gets stronger AS they go through all of the challenges they face together.Michelle is selfless, strong, and stubborn. Her husband, Chris, may be the one in the military, but Michelle is a fighter! I hope this conversation encourages you today that no matter what battle you’re facing, there are people who want to come alongside and fight with you. For more information on Veteran Help Point and specific volunteer opportunities available like resource discovery, database management, social media management, or marketing and branding, or to reach out to Michelle directly, please take a look at the show notes. Thank you for listening!Volunteer opportunities:Veteran Help Point has "bite sized" opportunities for you to directly unburden veterans and their families with their mental load. If you are gifted in any of the following, we have opportunities for you!Resource discovery- 1-2 hours a week (or bi-weekly) to find local resources and record in a spreadsheet. You'll be shown how to look for resources by using a simple process to make it a foolproof process!Database management- If you're a geek for spreadsheets this is your jam! Something as simple as formatting sheets to make them more streamlined or complex as adding automation. Social Media Management- With 5 social media platforms to manage today, this opportunity can be quite robust or if you're skilled with one platform in particular it can be focused on just one. Marketing and Branding- The great thing about nonprofits is the access to free tools and resources. We have access to things like Google Ads and need help utilized these tools to reach a wider audience to begin helping. Michelle’s contact information:michelle@veteranhelppoint.comFacebook and Instagram at Veteran Help Point
Welcome to episode 9 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Here we broadcast stories of everyday men and women who’ve answered a call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Eric Hohman. Eric is a former Combat Controller, MBA, and president of the First There Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to ensure current and former Combat Controllers know they have teammates ready to assist them when life becomes difficult. They help coordinate access to medical, mental, and substance abuse treatments and provide emergency financial assistance, career guidance, and help connect families to various support services. First There honors past, present, and future Combat Controllers by raising awareness of their vital contributions to armed conflicts and natural disasters throughout American history. 2022 was their first year and they helped 22 Controllers and 7 family members. They are on pace to help more of their members with job placement, medical aid, and telling their story.
In today’s conversation, Eric takes us through his own story, highlighting some of the pain he has experienced and how those experiences have given him the insight he needed to help others today. Specifically, Eric talks about survivor’s guilt, depression, using alcohol to self-medicate, and suicidal ideation. These are not uncommon for combat veterans, especially following their separation from service due to several losses occurring simultaneously such as the loss of purpose, loss of belonging and support, and the loss of identity.
However, if there is anything at all you hear from Eric’s story, I want you to hear this: Number 1: Having any of these or other symptoms does not make you weak. I will say that again: Having these or other symptoms does not make you weak. 2: You are not alone. I’ve worked with the most elite military men and women in the world and they too struggle with all of the symptoms mentioned and more. 3: Not reaching out and talking to someone is the easiest way for THIS enemy to defeat you. THIS enemy will whisper lies to you all day long to keep you from growing and healing. 4: Like other enemies you have faced, you can beat this one. Do not, as Eric says, suffer in silence. Call me or call Eric or call someone you know and talk today, right now.
I hope this conversation gives you hope today. This episode is dedicated to Chris “AZ” Rush. For more information on the First There Foundation, Combat Controllers, or resources for support, please take a look at the show notes. Thank you for listening!
Additional resources:
The history of First There: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/air-force-combat-controllers-first-there/
Chris “AZ” Rush: https://www.1stthere.org/about/chris-az-rush/
To Donate: https://www.1stthere.org/donate
Welcome to episode 8 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Today’s interview is with Jon Dodson. Jon is the CEO of Pivot Project Development, a company whose purpose is to develop beautiful projects that promote human flourishing, create shared value for their stakeholders, and have an enduring impact on their communities.
I had the great opportunity to grow up with Jon in Stillwater, Oklahoma. From the time I met him in 6th grade, he has stood out for being radically kind, thoughtful, brave, and generous. As a young man, he set an example of loving the unloved and standing up for the underdog. The work he is doing today may be more complex yet it speaks of similar characteristics as evidenced by his company’s values of empathy, resilience, excellence, thoughtfulness, and my personal favorite, joyful disruption.
In today’s conversation, Jon takes us through his own story, highlighting some of the pain he has experienced and how those experiences have impacted how he shows up today. Too often, we see examples of individual discomfort, pain, and tragedy leading to a self-focused perspective in life, looking out for number one, as they say, putting up walls, and keeping others out. This is not the story you’ll hear today. Jon’s life is an example of being grateful for every experience and believing that they are producing in you the capacity to serve others in a unique way. His story is proof that you can serve others by creating relationships outside of your comfort zone and allowing them to help you increase in wisdom no matter your background, skills, or profession.
I hope this conversation helps you reflect on your own experiences to this point and how they have been used to mold you into a powerful tool for good works. For more information on Pivot Project Development, East Point, Restore OKC, or Urban Land Institute, check out the show notes. Thank you for listening!
Additional resources:
Pivot Project Development: https://www.pivotproject.com
For more about Urban Land Institute, visit their website here: https://uli.org
For an excellent article chronicling the history of EastPoint and Pivot Project Development’s involvement, visit it here: https://wwwoklahoman.com/story/news/2021/07/11/grocery-development-neglected-east-okc-getting-national-attention/7519757002/
Restore OKC: https://www.restoreokc.com
Welcome to episode 7 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Today’s interview is with Brandon Wood. Brandon is a husband, father, Special Operations Veteran, and Associate Pastor of Youth and Young Adults at Aberdeen First Baptist Church in Aberdeen, NC.
I had the great opportunity to work alongside Brandon for a few years in our previous positions. He is insightful, caring, generous, and humble. I witnessed how he held up and supported so many men and women in our unit when we lost one of our own. His character was a bright light in a very dark place.
In today’s conversation, Brandon takes us through his own path of service, highlighting some of the extreme pain, heartache, and brokenness he has experienced. Have you ever hit so many obstacles you question if you’re heading on the right path? This is the conversation you may need to hear today. If you’ve ever felt like going through hardship disqualifies you from making a mighty impact in the world around you, you’ll be encouraged by Brandon’s story. Brandon’s life is proof that brokenness may just be the thing that best equips you for the healing that comes through serving others.
I hope this conversation holds you up on your journey today and that Brandon’s words help bring you peace. For more information on Personal Rescue, CSAR, the SOCOM Care Coalition, see below. Thank you for listening!
Key words:
Personnel Recovery (also know as “PR”): the sum of military, diplomatic, and civil efforts to prepare for and execute the recovery and reintegration of isolated personnel
CSAR (Combat Search And Rescue): There are several options to recover isolated personnel, but combat search and rescue (CSAR) is the Air Force’s preferred method. The Air Force organizes, trains, and equips unique forces that focus specifically on personnel recovery (PR). When PR assets cannot avoid the threat on their own, other assets can be employed to protect the recovery forces thereby permitting PR to proceed with the best chance of success. CSAR represents the Air Force’s method for PR in both denied and hostile environments.
Resources:
SOCOM Care Coalition: https://www.socom.mil/care-coalition
The U.S. Special Operations Command Warrior Care Program (Care Coalition) was established in 2005 to provide Special Operations Forces (SOF) Wounded, Ill, or Injured Service Members and their families advocacy after life-changing events in order to navigate through recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration as quickly as possible, strengthening SOF readiness. Whether you are returning to operational status, moving into a different field, or transitioning into veteran status, the USSOCOM Warrior Care Program (Care Coalition) will help you get there.
Welcome to episode 6 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Here we broadcast stories of men and women who’ve answered the call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Steve Nisbet. Steve is a husband, father, Special Operations Veteran, and the co-founder of Shields and Stripes, a non-profit on a mission to provide free innovative, intensive, and holistic care for veterans and first responders.
I had the great opportunity to work alongside Steve for a few years in our previous positions. He is driven, bright, thoughtful, and humble. His kindness in welcoming an outsider into the fold surprised me when I first arrived at the unit several years ago. He was willing to share the turf with a slow girl and didn’t even talk too much trash.
In today’s conversation, I was struck by several themes I believe are worth mentioning upfront. If you’ve ever felt like life has brought you through a winding, twisted, and uncertain path, you’re in good company. Has anyone ever told you you’re not good enough or you won’t make it? Stay and listen. And if your life of service has exposed you to loss after loss and you’re wondering how to keep going, you need to hear Steve’s story. Today, he courageously takes us through his greatest struggles, his journey towards health and wholeness, and how he’s revolutionizing the treatment possibilities for veterans and first responders through intensive and holistic care.
I hope this conversation offers you encouragement on your journey and that the fire to keep going that Steve talks about is fueled in you today. Thank you for listening!
If you would like to change the life of a veteran or first responder, please consider contributing by using the link below:
https://shieldsandstripes.org/
Welcome to episode 5 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. Today’s interview is with Amy Nash. Amy is the mother of two, the wife of a retired Marine Special Operations Veteran, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently serving at Special Operations Command Africa.
I had the great opportunity to work alongside Amy for a few years in our previous positions. She is driven, insightful, and unafraid to support individuals during their most challenging seasons. I admire her greatly for her poise, courage, humility, and ability to hold tight to her own health & well-being so she can continue to help others.
In today’s conversation, you’ll notice a few themes that have served Amy well in her life and career and continue to help those she serves. One theme is expectation management which means communicating in a way that every person involved has a clear understanding of what to expect and when to expect it, keeping an open dialogue, making the process collaborative, and promising only what can realistically be delivered. The second is taking inventory- a process by which you intentionally take time to pause and consider your interests, values, and behaviors, all of which can provide insight into yourself, offer you encouragement as you see the areas in which you have grown, and challenge you with new areas for growth and development.
Since Amy and her family are serving abroad, our connection wasn’t the greatest, which you may notice in the quality of the audio. That aside, this conversation will offer you practical ways to think and communicate about your service, creating the most solid fit between your work, your loved ones, and your phase of life. If you’re at all interested in the field of social work, please listen and share as Amy describes the breadth and depth of this helping profession, and check out the show notes. Amy provided several helpful links and resources for more information. One of those is sound-off, the first and only mental health resource for veterans, service members, and intelligence officers that allows both anonymity and repeat contact with a clinician or peer support. I hope this episode encourages you in the work before you today. Thank you for listening!
Resources/Links:
https://sound-off.com is something Amy recently volunteered her time for. Sound Off is the first and only mental health resource for veterans, service members, and intelligence officers, allowing anonymity and repeat contact with clinicians or peer support. I’d encourage peers and clinicians who want to continue serving the military community to look into programs like this.
If you'd like to connect with Amy on LinkedIn, you can find her here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-nash-b75b411b3
Two foundations that are meaningful to Amy and provide services for veterans:
https://reconfoundation.org
https://marineraiderfoundation.org
Welcome to Episode 4 of the In the Name of Service Podcast. I’m your host Dr. Barb Thompson. Here, we broadcast stories of men and women who’ve answered the call to serve in hopes of inspiring and catalyzing the rest of us to follow suit in our own way. Today’s interview is with Eric Ballester. Eric is a husband, father, and recently retired Air Force Special Operations Veteran with 10 combat deployments. Currently, he owns a small business optimizing processes and reducing expenses for business owners, stays extremely active with competitions like American Ninja Warrior, and serves as a board member and treasurer of the Shields and Stripes non-profit organization on a mission to provide innovative holistic care to veterans and first responders.
Eric is bright, charismatic, humble, hilarious, and extremely driven. You will appreciate the approach he takes to service and how honest he is about how it changed over time. If you’ve ever found yourself in a place you didn’t choose or like, you’ll connect with Eric’s story and may even learn a new perspective. During this conversation, Eric highlights the importance of brotherhood, in other words, a real and genuine concern for others. He describes how service showed up at a low point during his service in Special Operations. It wasn’t what he was expecting or going after at that time, but it was there, he recognized it, and it pivoted everything for him.
If you’d like to connect with Eric to talk about mission or business, I recommend following him on LinkedIn and checking out the show notes. I’ve included a few important links to more information about Shields and Stripes as well as two Delta Force Operators who inspired Eric and gave their lives during the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia on Oct. 3, 1993, Randy Shughart and Gary Gordon. I hope this conversation compels you to action in the work before you today. Thank you for listening!
Shields and Stripes:
https://shieldsandstripes.org
Randy Shughart and Gary Gordon:
https://www.military.com/off-duty/books/2022/08/25/these-delta-force-soldiers-received-medal-of-honor-after-their-sacrifice-somalia.html#:~:text=MSG%20Gary%20Gordon%20and%20SFC,3%2C%201993.
Today’s interview is with Josh Armstrong. He is a current seminary student, husband, and father of three. Josh and I met during his service as a Special Tactics Officer (STO) in the Air Force. He is one of the most thoughtful, selfless, and hardworking individuals I know and I’m so excited for you to hear from him.
A few things struck me about this conversation that I want to share upfront so you can catch them during our conversation. The first is the detail in which Josh recalls his development during his formative and college years. If you are a young person currently searching for answers, you’ll want to listen. And if you in any way are in a position to shape young people, pay attention. You may very well be one of the most influential and positive voices in that person’s life, catapulting them into a life of significant purpose and impact. The second is the specificity of the resources Josh has utilized along the way. Check below in the show notes after you listen because I’ve included a list of Josh’s most influential books from earlier in life as well as his current reading list, his favorite podcasts, and a few important links. The first link is for more information on Air Force Special Tactics, and the second link is to the Working Genius Assessment where you can learn more about which tasks give you joy and energy and which ones drain you.
Lastly, if you are interested in hearing more from Josh, consider connecting with him on LinkedIn. If you enjoy this conversation, you will appreciate his posts full of thoughtful insights he’s learning. Thank you for being here today- I hope this encourages you to attack the work before you today!
Josh’s Influential books/authors from college:
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Cost of Discipleship, Life Together, and Ethics
Martin Luther: Large Catechism and his commentary on the Letter to the Galatians
Military Books: The Men, the Mission, and Me, Bravo Two Zero, No Room for Error, Lone Survivor, Alone at Dawn
Josh’s Current Reading List (outside of assigned material):
Maps of Meaning by Jordan Peterson
Socrates to Sartre and Beyond: A History of Philosophy by Andrew Stumpf
Relational Cure by John Gottman
Josh’s most frequented podcasts:
Working Genius
At the Table with Patrick Lencioni
Jordan B. Peterson Podcast
Honestly with Bari Weiss
Links:
https://www.airforcespecialtactics.af.mil
https://www.workinggenius.com
Today's interview is with Victoria Weece. She is an expert in the field of military-to -civilian transition, a graduate student at Duke University, the spouse of a US Army Special Forces Officer, and an ultramarathoner.
In our conversation, Victoria shares how she first got started serving her community in college through a clothing drive as well as some of the difficulties and rewards of being a supportive military spouse. She takes us through the story of a very meaningful interaction she had during her position with the Air Force's most elite ground unit and how she learned that serving others does have to be complicated. We hope this episode encourages you in your work today.
For more information and resources regarding military-to-civilian transition, check out Victoria's profile on LinkedIn!
Jared Thompson is a recently retired US Army Special Forces Officer with multiple deployments to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. He served on Active Duty for over 21 years and now lives on 30 acres in Virginia with his family. Since retiring from the Army, Jared has earned his private pilot's license and volunteered for a short-term mission to Kenya with AIM AIR. During this interview, Jared mentions a few acronyms that may be unfamiliar to the non-military listener. Those acronyms' definitions are below and a few links for more information on US Army Special Forces, AIM AIR, and MACV SOG.
Links:
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AIM AIR is the airwing of Africa Inland Mission, an evangelical mission agency serving in over 20 African nations. For more information, following this link: https://aimair.org
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To learn more about US Army Special Forces, follow this link: Special Forces | goarmy.com
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Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) was a highly classified, multi-service United States special operations unit conducting covert unconventional warfare operations before and during the Vietnam War. Learn more about their history here: https://sogsite.com
Definitions:
“Exfil” – short for “exfiltration” which is to remove or withdraw (an intelligence agent, soldier, etc) surreptitiously from an enemy-held area.
“FTX”- field training exercise
“Infil” – short for “infiltration” which is the action of entering or gaining access to an organization or place in a way that attempts to avoid notice.
“ODA” - Special Forces Operational Detachment Alphas (ODAs) are elite teams consisting of mature, intense, highly-trained operators. SF Operators receive specialized training in advanced weapons, language, demolitions, combat medicine, military free-fall, and advanced combat tactics. Today's quiet professional operates in autonomous environments as the most trusted force in America's Army.
“ROTC” – Reserve Officer Training Course- Army ROTC pays for your tuition while you go to college and train to become an Army Officer. Offered at more than 1,000 colleges and universities, you can get the college experience along with a guaranteed career after graduation as a highly respected second lieutenant in the Army, Army Reserve, or Army National Guard.
Listen in for quick description of the podcast and learn what to expect in future weekly episodes