Drive On Podcast

This episode features Terry L. Fossum, a veteran with a diverse and illustrious background, including serving as the executive officer for a group of Nuclear B-52 bombers during the Cold War and winning the survival reality show, 'Kicking and Screaming' on Fox. Terry is also a celebrated author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book, 'The Oxcart Technique'. This revolutionary goal-setting system helps individuals achieve their goals by utilizing both negative and positive motivators to drive action, forming a powerful framework applicable to various aspects of life. 00:00 Introduction to Terry L. Fossum 01:46 Overview of The Oxcart Technique 02:01 Debunking Goal-Setting Myths 04:20 Understanding Prospect Theory 07:48 Application of The Oxcart Technique 22:08 Detailed Steps of The Oxcart Technique 41:12 Kicking and Screaming Experience 44:50 Conclusion and Resources 46:48 Humor Segment: Service Connected? Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.TerryLFossum.comhttps://www.TheGoalSecret.com Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Michaud, a seasoned psychologist with over 30 years of experience, discusses the intricate issues of addiction, codependency, and mental health, particularly within the veteran community. The discussion provides valuable insights into how these issues impact veterans and their families and offers strategies for developing healthier relationships and coping mechanisms. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sarah Michaud 01:54 Understanding Codependency 08:23 Challenges in Managing Addiction and Mental Health 09:49 The Complexity of PTSD and Addiction 08:27 Navigating the Healthcare System 15:11 Impact of Emotional Pain and Grief 16:20 Consequences of Not Addressing Root Causes 15:06 Grief and Rage 34:04 Breaking the Cycle of Codependency 46:26 Dr. Michaud's Book and Resources 47:40 Closing Remarks and Humor Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.drsarahmichaud.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Co-Crazy-Psychologists-Recovery-Codependency-Addiction/dp/1736720430/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1 Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Jennie Potter, author of 'Self Sabotage No More' and creator of the ALARM Method, discusses techniques to manage emotional triggers. The discussion focuses on practical steps veterans and others can use to tackle emotions like anger, fear, and stress, which often lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. 00:00 Introduction to Jennie Potter 01:05 Understanding the ALARM Method 01:37 Practical Applications 28:09 Managing Intense Emotions 34:15 Challenges and Overcoming Them Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://jenniepotter.com/https://www.facebook.com/jenniepotterofficial/https://www.instagram.com/jennie_potter/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Mike Hassell, author of Deep Tradeoffs, delves into strategies for humanizing opponents and managing subconscious reflexes in polarized societies. The discussion covers approaches to handling interpersonal and societal conflicts, the importance of striving versus peace, the complexities of honesty and self-deception, and the pursuit of happiness and meaning. Mike provides insights on balancing conflicting values, personal reflections on shared experiences, and practical techniques for diffusing tension. 00:00 Introduction to Mike Hassell and Deep Tradeoffs 01:39 Humanizing Opponents and Managing Conflict 08:06 Understanding Rivalrous Values 36:58 Striving vs. Peace 34:27 Interpersonal Relationships and Shared Experiences 36:36 Pursuing Happiness and Meaning 52:25 Conclusion and Practical Techniques Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://deeptradeoffs.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Deep-Tradeoffs-Restoring-Balance-Polarized/dp/196077400X Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Author and speaker Corey Poirier discusses the importance of finding purpose and passion to address mental health issues. Corey shares his personal journey through mental health struggles, the moment that changed his life, and how he now helps others discover their own passions and purposes. With insights applicable to veterans, service members, and the broader community, Corey's practical advice and inspirational story make this an episode you won't want to miss. 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Introducing Corey Poirier 01:06 Corey's Background and Journey 01:25 Mental Health Struggles and Overcoming Them 02:43 The Impact of Passion on Mental Health 07:07 Purpose and Passion in the Military Community 09:49 Helping Others Find Their Purpose 13:05 Finding Passion and Purpose 12:19 10,000 Hours to Mastery 28:30 Putting in the Work 09:47 Addressing Negativity 35:21 Steps to Finding Passion 44:20 Closing Thoughts and Resources Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.coreypoiriermedia.comhttps://www.facebook.com/corey.poirier.1https://www.instagram.com/thatspeakerguy/https://twitter.com/thatspeakerguyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/speakercoreypoirier/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this special episode marking a significant milestone, the focus shifts from traditional interviews to an in-depth exploration of the essence of Independence Day. The episode dives into the historical context of the American Revolution, key figures and battles that shaped the nation's quest for freedom, and the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence. It offers listeners a monologue that transcends a simple historical recounting, aiming to inspire patriotism and a deep appreciation for the principles of bravery, sacrifice, and freedom. This commemorative episode is a tribute to the spirit of Independence Day, delving into the values that make the United States a beacon of freedom worldwide. 00:00 Historical Context of Independence Day 03:13 Significance of the Declaration of Independence 20:12 Foundational Figures of the Revolution 23:40 Key Battles and Events Leading to Independence 46:47 Formation of a New Nation 59:18 The Evolving American Identity 01:09:31 Significance and Celebration of Independence Day Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, our guest is Karis Meier, a military wife and an inspiring author of 'Suffering Redeemed: Finding Strength to Endure, Purpose in Pain and Hope for Tomorrow'. Karis shares her journey of dealing with chronic illness and how her experiences have shaped her perspective on suffering, resilience, and the importance of community support. With insights from her life as a military spouse and her deep-rooted faith, Karis discusses the practical tools and wisdom she has gathered while navigating through life's hardships. This episode explores themes of personal transformation, the therapeutic power of writing, and how suffering can bring unexpected gifts. Listeners will find encouragement and strategies for facing their own challenges, learning to process their experiences, and discovering the strength to endure through adversity. 00:00 Guest Introduction 01:19 Journey Through Adversity 08:48 Insights from 'Suffering Redeemed' 14:06 The Therapeutic Power of Writing 29:01 Holistic View on Overcoming Challenges 41:49 Navigating Life's Transitions Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://karismeier.comhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086940122365https://www.instagram.com/authorkarismeier/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode features Perla Tapia, who serves in the US Air Force and as the Lead Coordinator for Irreverent Warriors' hikes in Phoenix. This episode shows the impact of camaraderie in supporting veterans and preventing suicide, highlighted by the organization's "silkies hikes." Listeners will learn about the significance of community and connection in addressing veteran mental health and how Irreverent Warriors' events create meaningful, support-filled experiences for veterans. This episode bridges military service, voluntary commitment, and the effects of community support in tackling prevalent issues within the veteran community. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://irreverentwarriors.com/https://www.facebook.com/groups/330029989115645/https://www.instagram.com/iw.phoenixhttps://www.facebook.com/irreverentwarriorshttps://twitter.com/iwnationalhttps://www.instagram.com/irreverentwarriors/https://www.tiktok.com/@iwnationalhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/80442970https://discord.gg/WWCBkCkdaa Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Joe Fortuno, a veteran deeply dedicated to assisting fellow veterans in securing their deserving VA disability benefits, shares his insights and experiences. Looking into the complexities of mental health challenges, the transition from military to civilian life, and the intricacies of navigating VA health care and disability benefits, Joe offers advice and perspectives drawn from both personal and professional expertise. This episode is a must-listen for veterans seeking guidance on VA benefits, individuals facing transition struggles, and anyone interested in the support systems within the veteran community. Listen in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a deep dive into the resources available to veterans. 00:00 Guest Introduction: Joe Fortuno 02:08 Veterans' Transition Challenges 09:52 Navigating Mental Health and Support Systems 13:47 Understanding VA Disability Benefits 31:05 Advice for Veterans Seeking Benefits Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://jandils.comhttps://www.facebook.com/joe.ayo.9https://www.instagram.com/calicojoe_1https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fortuno-165570212 Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Jessica Timmerman shares her personal journey of loss and resilience following the passing of her brother, a dedicated service member. Jessica opens up about the challenges her brother faced, including combat experiences in Iraq, Afghanistan, and South Africa, and his struggles with mental health leading up to his passing on Mother's Day 2022. Through her story, Jessica sheds light on the importance of support systems for military suicide survivor families, discussing resources and organizations that have been instrumental in her healing process. She also touches on the broader issue of mental health within the military community, emphasizing the need for accessible support and the power of personal connections in overcoming grief and isolation. Her message is one of hope, urging those who are struggling or know someone who is to seek out and offer support, ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey of loss alone. 00:00 Introduction to Jessica Timmerman's Story 01:20 Discussing Military Service and Personal Struggles 05:51 The Importance of Support Systems and Resources 07:12 Finding Hope and Strength Through Connection 09:50 Jessica's Current Endeavors to Support Others 12:30 Ideas for Improving Support for Military Families Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.thefinalsalutellc.comhttps://www.facebook.com/thefinalsalutehttps://www.instagram.com/thefinalsalutellchttp://linkedin.com/in/jessica-timmerman-97059025a Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Megan Richards, an army combat veteran and the executive director of Packages from Home, joins us to discuss the substantial impact of care packages on military members stationed abroad and veterans in need. We talk about Megan's personal journey from joining the army unexpectedly, facing the complexities of military life, and how her experiences shaped her role in providing morale-boosting support to the military community. The conversation highlights the evolution of Packages from Home, from its grassroots beginnings to its current outreach, fulfilling 50 requests daily from military members across 176 countries and supporting canines in service. Further, it explores volunteer opportunities with the organization, emphasizing its initiative beyond simple care packages to include support groups and events for veterans, showcasing the breadth of their commitment to the entire military community. This episode is a compelling listen for those interested in military advocacy, volunteerism, and the power of community in supporting our service members and veterans. 00:00 Empowering Through Care Packages 02:17 A Personal Journey in Service 07:31 Supporting the Military and Beyond 23:23 The Growth of Packages from Home Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.packagesfromhome.orghttps://www.facebook.com/PkgsFromHome/https://www.instagram.com/packagesfromhome/https://www.linkedin.com/company/packages-from-home/https://secure.packagesfromhome.org/np/clients/packagesfromhome/donation.jsp?forwardedFromSecureDomain=1&campaign=115&&test=truehttps://pack.crownroyal.com Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Rachel Masch-Perez, the Community Engagement Director at MANA House, dives deep into the critical issue of veteran homelessness. We explore the multifaceted challenges veterans face, including substance abuse, mental health issues, and the hurdles of reintegration into civilian life, contributing to homelessness. Rachel provides a behind-the-scenes look at how MANA House, a peer-run organization in Phoenix, Arizona, offers personalized resources, support, and advocacy to help homeless and formerly homeless veterans. This episode shines a light on essential assistance programs, the impact of community and belonging, and the broader social factors influencing veteran homelessness. Listeners will gain an understanding of the specialized support provided to veterans, the specific demographics at higher risk, and success stories from the community, emphasizing the importance of targeted assistance and the power of collaboration in addressing veteran homelessness. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.manahouseaz.org/https://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/all-locations/veteran-serviceshttps://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/blog-categories/veteranshttps://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org/https://www.facebook.com/rachel.masch.54https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-masch-9ab402a3/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode features financial educator Kate Horrell, specializing in empowering military and veteran families to optimize their pay and benefits. Discussions span the differences in managing finances for active vs. veteran status, leveraging educational benefits like the Post 9/11 GI Bill, navigating the transition from military to civilian life, and the availability of resources to ease this significant change. Kate shares great insights on preparing financially for the transition, making the most of available benefits, and the importance of planning for life post-service. This episode is a must-listen for military members, veterans, and their families seeking to better navigate financial planning and use of benefits pre and post-military life. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://katehorrell.comhttps://www.facebook.com/KateHorrellFinanceExpert/https://www.instagram.com/realkatehorrell/https://twitter.com/realKateHorrellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/katehorrell/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode features Kapri Willis, who shares her compelling journey from a challenging youth to serving as a Navy Corpsman and later founding Take Care of Our Vets. Willis opens up about the motivations behind her military service, her diverse experiences within the Navy, and how these shaped her commitment to aiding homeless veterans and their families. She provides insights into the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life and discusses her efforts to improve the lives of homeless veterans through health and beauty initiatives. Additionally, the episode delves into broader issues surrounding homelessness, highlighting the importance of humanity and understanding in addressing this complex problem. 00:00 Introducing Kapri Willis 00:57 Journey to Service 08:50 Challenges of Transition 12:27 Addressing Veteran Homelessness 15:18 Humanity and Compassion 34:46 Is it Service Connected?: Marine vs Razor Wire Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.facebook.com/iamkapriwhttps://www.instagram.com/iamkapriwhttps://www.linkedin.com/kapriwillis Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, we look into the inspiring journey of Mark Perna, a former Marine Corps infantryman with deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. Mark shares his experiences from the battlefield to the trials of reintegration into civilian life, touching on themes of resilience, healing, and the power of self-discovery through challenging times. His story unfolds through discussions on overcoming the aftermath of combat, exploring non-traditional paths to healing, such as yoga and meditation, and the role of community and support systems in facilitating growth and recovery. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of the veteran experience, highlighting the importance of facing fears, embracing change, and finding solace in connection and purpose. (00:00) Welcome to Drive On (00:25) Introducing Mark Perna: A Marine's Story of Resilience (00:58) Parenting After War: Sharing Stories with the Next Generation (03:22) Marine Boot Camp: Preparing for War (08:32) Deployment to Afghanistan: The Reality on the Ground (13:19) Combat Experiences: The Intensity of Firefights (48:39) Returning Home: The Challenge of Reintegration (49:22) The Harsh Realities of Combat and Its Aftermath (51:18) Struggling with Trauma and Seeking Solace in Risky Behaviors (01:00:57) The Journey Towards Healing: From Medication to Meditation (01:11:56) Finding Peace Through Yoga and Embracing New Beginnings (01:24:05) Skydiving: A Leap Towards Self-Discovery and Love (01:32:55) Reflections on Service, Sacrifice, and the Path to Healing (01:39:33) Is It Service Connected?: The Misadventures of a Paratrooper Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode dives deep into veterans' support through service dogs, highlighting the support available for those who served. Our guest, Bryan Pieschel, director of veteran services at Dogs for Our Brave, shares his enlightening journey from an army medic in Baghdad to supporting wounded veterans. The conversation covers the vital role of service dogs in offering hope, independence, and support to veterans dealing with physical and mental challenges, diving into the specifics of how these dogs are trained and matched with veterans, the financial aspects, and the impact they have on veterans' lives. This episode not only sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans transitioning back to civilian life but also emphasizes the importance of support systems and resources available, making it a must-listen for anyone connected to the military community or interested in the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://dfob.orghttps://www.facebook.com/DogsForOurBrave/https://www.instagram.com/dogsforourbrave/https://twitter.com/DFOB_HQhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-pieschel-aa206b28a/https://www.linkedin.com/company/dogs-for-our-brave/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Fred Johnson, a former Marine turned musical performer renowned for his work in healing veterans through artistic expression. Johnson shares his journey from the military to the arts, highlighting the impact of his service and artistic endeavors and how these experiences shaped his commitment to helping veterans transition and heal. The discussion covers Johnson's unique perspective on the power of creativity in bridging the gap between military and civilian communities, the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression, and initiatives aimed at veterans' rehabilitation. This heartfelt dialogue offers insights into the intersection of service, art, and the ongoing efforts to support the well-being of veterans and their families. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.facebook.com/StrazCenterhttps://instagram.com/Strazcenter Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Elisa Glass, a dedicated caregiver to her husband, a 100% disabled veteran, and an advocate for caregivers and individuals with rare autoimmune diseases. Elisa shares her challenging journey of resilience, strength, and dedication while navigating the unique hurdles of caregiving, managing her own rare autoimmune disease, and advocating for resources and support. The discussion covers the underestimated stress of caregiving, the importance of self-identification as a caregiver, valuable tips on self-care, and how to access helpful resources and programs, particularly through the VA. Elisa's story highlights the power of a positive mindset, the necessity of community support, and offers inspiration and practical advice for caregivers facing similar situations. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elisa-glass/https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

In this episode, Uncle Jimmy (James Kuczykowski), a Roman Catholic Air Force veteran, shares his inspiring and impactful journey from rock bottom to recovery. Discussing his life's challenges, including overcoming addiction and surviving a stroke, Uncle Jimmy offers a raw and honest look into the trials he faced and how he overcame them. Through stories of his military career, the camaraderie amongst veterans, and his deep faith, listeners are invited to explore themes of resilience, community, and spiritual growth. Whether discussing his time in the Air Force, his struggles with addiction, or his path to writing a book, Uncle Jimmy's story is one of hope and transformation, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or understanding of the power of redemption. 00:00 Introduction to Uncle Jimmy 01:10 Military Service and Reflections 08:50 Facing Life Challenges 14:17 Overcoming Addiction 22:21 Discovering Faith and Recovery 36:42 Embracing Fellowship and Humor Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.thywillbedonebyjameskuczykowski.com Transcript View the transcript for this episode.