DAV Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Connected We Stand - Addressing Veteran Loneliness May 01, 2025

Show notes

This podcast episode features Elizabeth Stetler interviewing Karen Owoc, a clinical exercise physiologist at the Palo Alto VA Medical Center and a specialist in preventative cardiology and functional longevity. The conversation centers around the critical issue of veteran loneliness and isolation. Karen draws on her experience working with veterans, particularly through a remote cardiology program, to shed light on the unique challenges they face upon transitioning to civilian life, including the loss of camaraderie, the impact of trauma and PTSD (especially among Vietnam and post-9/11 veterans), and the difficulties in adjusting to a lack of structure and community.

Predatory Claims Companies Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

The PACT Act brought a wave of hope for veterans and a promise of recognition for their service. But what happens when that promise is targeted by those seeking to exploit the very people it was meant to help? Join us as we delve into the alarming rise of predatory claims companies – businesses illegally preying on veterans navigating the complexities of their earned VA benefits. This isn't a matter of policy; it's about safeguarding those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. In this podcast Jim Marszalek, DAV National Service Director, and Scott Hope, Deputy National Service Director for Training, to expose the tactics of these "claims sharks," clarify the legal landscape, and most importantly, highlight the free, trusted resources available to veterans through the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Learn how to identify these predatory practices and understand why DAV believes no veteran should ever have to pay for assistance with their VA claims.

Loneliness and Veterans - understanding the connection Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

In this DAV Podcast, Rob Lewis engages in a crucial discussion with Dr. Allen Teo, a psychiatrist, to delve into the pervasive issue of loneliness and its profound impact on mental health, particularly within the veteran community. Dr. Teo provides a clinical definition of loneliness, distinguishing it from mere solitude, and highlights the unique challenges faced by veterans due to factors like medical comorbidities and mental health conditions such as PTSD and depression. The conversation extends to exploring the complex relationship between social media and genuine connection, as well as the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers.

Psychedelic medicine isn't the cure, it's the portal Mar 24, 2025

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This DAV Podcast delves into the often-overlooked struggles veterans face after returning home, where the battles are fought internally against invisible wounds. This episode features an in-depth conversation between DAV's Rob Lewis and Sam Juan, a combat veteran who found relief from severe mental health challenges through ibogaine therapy. Sam's journey is a raw and honest exploration of her experiences, from her time serving with JSOC and Navy SEAL teams to her descent into self-medication and opiate addiction.

A Different Kind of Readiness: Mental Health, Firearms, and the Veteran Community Feb 28, 2025

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In this episode of the DAV Podcast, we shift the focus on veteran suicide from despair to action. Join DAV's Jonathan Kaupanger and Dr. Russell Lemle, a leading expert in firearm suicide prevention, as they discuss lethal means safety - a practical approach to saving lives. Learn how simple steps can create crucial distance between a veteran in crisis and the means to harm themselves.

2025 Independent Budget Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

The Independent Budget podcast is an annual collaboration by DAV, PVA and VFW. It recommends budget priorities for the Department of Veterans Affairs. This conversation highlights the critical need for consistent and adequate VA funding to ensure veterans receive necessary healthcare, benefits and long-term care. This group podcast advocates for a veteran-centric approach to VA budgeting, emphasizing the importance of timely and accessible care and responsible spending to honor the services of American Veterans.

Filling Our Ranks: Recruiting DAV Members Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

DAV's Elizabeth Stetler sits down with DAV member leader Shannon Sander, of the DAV Department of New York. The two discuss how a recent recruitment push can influence potential members. To become a member, go to https://www.dav.org/join-2/ to join our ranks.

Bringing our Missing in Action Home Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

In this interview, Matt Saintsing sits down with Kelly McKeague, director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), on how the department tracks down and identifies American Missing in Action. Listen to learn about the homecoming journeys that can be decades in the making.

Fallujah: 20 Years Later Nov 13, 2024

Show notes

Veterans who served in the Second Battle of Fallujah share their service, sacrifice, and healing stories. This conversation was taken from a panel discussion at DAV's 2024 National Convention in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more about these veterans and read their stories at FallujahStories.org.

From Founder to Mentor: DAV Patriot Boot Camp alum, Kristin Sargent Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

DAV Patriot Boot Camp Director Nick Brophy discusses Sargent Initiatives' business and story with CEO Kristin Sargeant. Kristin is a DAV Patriot Boot Camp alum who now mentors other entrepreneurs. Listen now to learn more about this Army veteran's journey.

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