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Veteran Cast — Government & Organizations
Veteran Cast

Educate, inform, and improve the lives of Veterans in our community.

Latest Episodes:

Episode 25: Hotel Tango: Spirits Distilled With Discipline Jun 11, 2020

Disabled Veteran Travis Barnes, his wife Hilary, and some friends started Hotel Tango in 2014. To honor Travis’ military service, they named their distillery based on the NATO phonetic alphabet - Hotel for Hilary, Tango for Travis. Surrounding themselves with exceptional people at every level, they focus on crafting equally exceptional spirits. Spirits that reflect Travis’s exacting standards. Spirits that are fit to serve and made to share.

In this episode, we interview Ginger Barnes (Vice President of Operations) and Kelsey Strohmeyer (Brand Manager) at Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery. They share the story of the company, the culture there, and the amazing work that the company did to produce sanitizer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Special Guests: Ginger Barnes and Kelsey Strohmeyer.

Sponsored By:

DK New Media: DK New Media is a veteran-owned digital media and marketing consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Promo Code: VETS

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Hotel Tango — Hotel Tango is an artisan distillery in Indianapolis, and the first combat-disabled, veteran-owned distillery in the nation.
Shop Hotel Tango — Create an account and get Hotel Tango's American Straight Bourbon Whiskey, American Straight Rye Whiskey, Vodka, Gin, Rum, Cherry Liqueur, Orangecello, or Lemoncello delivered to you!

Episode 24: Understand Your Value as a Veteran and Go Beyond Roles to Find Purpose Apr 07, 2020

In this episode Douglas interviews Gulf War Enlisted Veteran, John Qualls. John has had an incredible career launching and leading several technology startups. His most recent company is Purposely, a platform to empower employees or individuals to optimize their talents.

Talent optimization is one of the most critical factors that will determine if your business is able to reach and exceed your desired business results. While most business strategies focus on technical and functional aspects talent optimization should be a central part of your business strategy. With talent optimization, use a human lens to convert your business strategy into a compelling story that will engage employees.

Having found his strengths and blazed a path in the technology industry, John is now sharing his wisdom with other people and then putting the tools in place to help them. We discuss how critical this is to both individuals and to companies - especially in times of economic challenges.

Special Guest: John Qualls.

Sponsored By:

DK New Media: DK New Media is a veteran-owned digital media and marketing consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Promo Code: VETS

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Purposely — Helping companies understand and empower their employees.
Purposely Assessment — Find your purpose with their free assessment.

Episode 23: HVAF Of Indiana: Housing, Support, And Advocacy For Veterans And Their Families Mar 18, 2020

HVAF was first incorporated as a Far From Home Chapter in June, 1993. In 1995, the organization completed its first housing project, establishing a residence for five homeless veterans. The project became the first transitional housing unit for homeless veterans in Indianapolis.

In 1998, the organization adopted the name Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation, Inc. (HVAF). In April, 2000, HVAF developed its Veteran Services Center, extending supportive services to homeless veterans and their families. The center provides food, clothing, furniture, household items and personal hygiene supplies. In 2005, the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation became HVAF of Indiana, Inc.

HVAF operates 13 distinct transitional housing properties including substance abuse and addiction counseling services. In September 2011, HVAF opened another apartment complex that houses 51 veterans, bringing HVAF’s total bed capacity to over 200. Still, the need for services greatly exceeds even this capacity.

HVAF of Indiana houses, supports, and advocates for all veterans and their families to help them achieve the best possible quality of life. They fight veteran homelessness in 5 ways:

Housing - they operate 13 distinct housing properties across Indianapolis.
Employment - they have employment specialists who help veterans hold employment.
Pantry - they stock and provide clothing, hygiene products, and food items all year.
Advocacy - they engage in activities to raise awareness in the community.
Outreach - Every day, workers go into the community to help those in need.

If you're a veteran, a supporter, or a company in the region that wishes to help, please connect with HVAF of Indiana. They have opportunities to donate funds, donate pantry items, or even donate time to assist in the upkeep of the housing and assistance in their other work.

Special Guests: Andrea DeCamp and Robert White.

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HVAF of Indiana — HVAF of Indiana houses, supports, and advocates for all veterans and their families to help them achieve the best possible quality of life.
Support HVAF of Indiana — Supporters of HVAF of Indiana can donate time, money, or items to assist in their mission.
Subscribe to HVAF of Indiana's Newsletter — Stay informed about HVAF of Indiana's progress and opportunities where you can assist.

Episode 22: WGU Indiana: Affordable, Fully Accredited Online Degree Programs for Active Military and Veterans Dec 30, 2019

On this episode, we interview Alison Barber Bell, Chancellor of WGU Indiana, and Andrew Nagel, Registered Nurse and Graduate of WGU's Nursing Degree Program. We discuss WGU's unique non-profit, accredited online degree program and how it's especially good for active duty military, transitioning military, veterans, and their families.

WGU Indiana is an online, competency-based university established to expand access to higher education for Indiana residents. The university offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business, K-12 teacher education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing.

Degrees are granted under the accreditation of WGU, which is accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Teachers College programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), College of Business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). WGU Indiana has helped 7,500 Hoosiers achieve their dream of completing a college degree. Another 5,900 students are currently enrolled.

Facts about WGU Indiana:

In 2010, Western Governors University was approached by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels about creating a state-based model for the university. Indiana became the very first state model and the first state-endorsed online university, creating positions for a local chancellor and local advisory board.

WGU Indiana serves more than 520 active-duty military members, veterans or military family members.
WGU Indiana is a nonprofit, accredited, online university that serves students from all different backgrounds
WGU Indiana is currently serving about 5,600 Hoosiers – a 166 percent increase in enrollment since 2011.
WGU Indiana has awarded degrees to more than 7,500 Indiana residents.
WGU Indiana serves students who are not well-served by traditional colleges and universities; 72 percent are classified as underserved in one or more of four categories: ethnic minority, low income, rural residents, or first-generation college students.
As of 2018, 86 percent of WGU Indiana’s students work full-time jobs while pursuing a degree.
According to a recent Gallup-Purdue index, which provides insight into the relationship between the college experience and outcomes, WGU consistently scored higher than the national average when measuring school compatibility, mentorship, challenging curriculum, cost-worthiness and more.

WGU Indiana’s tuition fees are nearly half the national average. Tuition is about $6,500 per 12-month year for most programs, and it is charged at a flat rate, which means students can complete as many courses as they are able in any term, at no additional cost. On average, WGU graduates increase their pre-enrollment income by $12,600 within two years of graduation and by $18,400 within four years. With an average cost of $16,500 for a bachelor's degree, most WGU graduates see a positive return on their investment within two to three years.

Special Guests: Allison Barber Bell and Andrew Nagel.

Sponsored By:

DK New Media: DK New Media is a veteran-owned digital media and marketing consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Promo Code: VETS

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WGU Indiana — WGU Indiana offers programs through the accreditation of our national partner, Western Governors University. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities first accredited WGU in 2003 and reaffirmed our accreditation in 2016, noting WGU's “institution-wide focus on helping students succeed.”
WGU Military and Veteran Financial Aid and Tuition — All degree programs offered at Western Governors University are approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs for all education benefits offered under the GI Bill®. Education benefit options are available for veterans and active duty servicepersons, dependents, and those with service in the National Guard and Reserves. Eligibility for benefits and the amounts available depend upon the serviceperson’s period of military service, years of service, and other factors.
WGU Scholarships — WGU’s scholarship programs make pursuing your goals even more budget-friendly. Now through March 31, new students are eligible to apply for an exclusive scholarship: The New Year Scholarship.

Episode 21: SSGT Joe Biggs Discusses His PTSD Journey Nov 21, 2018

Joe Biggs is a combat veteran of the United States Army, twice awarded a Purple Heart while serving several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. Post-retirement, SSGT Biggs is a political investigative reporter who has a huge following online.

This isn't an interview about politics, though. Joe has been transparent about his post-combat struggles with post traumatic stress disorder. Since the holidays are often a struggle, I asked Joe to share his story as well as his advice for other veterans, family members, and friends.

Please take the time to listen and share this podcast.

Special Guest: Joe Biggs.

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Veteran's Crisis Hotline — The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. The caring, qualified responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping Veterans of all ages and circumstances.
Gretchen Smith — Gretchen was mentioned on the show for her incredible devotion to veterans who need help.

Episode 20: Eleven Fifty Academy: Turning Veterans into Developers Oct 29, 2018

In a previous episode about the Eleven Fifty Academy, we interviewed Marine Veteran John Qualls about the opportunities for Veterans in the technology industry. Since that time, the Eleven Fifty Academy has historically acquired approval from the federal government for GI Bill usage.

We returned to the Eleven Fifty Academy to speak to David Whitt, the first GI Bill graduate of the Eleven Fifty Academy, and Shawn Gardner, Eleven Fifty's Executive Vice President of Business Development about turning Veterans into Developers. We discuss how training in development is a perfect career path for Veterans to enter the technology sector - either as a coder, project manager, or other supporting leadership position.

We also discuss the incentives for Veterans to move to Indiana to take advantage of this opportunity. Within just a few months, academy training in the technology field can open job opportunities that pay well above averages for Veterans. And within a few years, those careers drive some of the highest incomes under demand in the country.

Special Guests: David Whitt and Shawn Gardner.

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Eleven Fifty Academy: GI Bill Funds for Coding — The world needs more coders and the opportunities in Indiana are endless. Most jobs in and out of the technology industry need employees with coding skills. By learning the skills to fill these positions, you can set your sights on better-paying jobs with more room to advance.
INVets: Indiana Veteran Job and Careers Connection — Founded by a veteran of the global war on terrorism, INvets helps transitioning service members, veterans and spouses take advantage of the huge demand for veteran talent in Indiana. We bring together major employers throughout Indiana who value the skills and experience gained through military service. These companies are looking to recruit veterans to fill thousands of high-paying positions across Indiana, and are often willing to provide veterans with the necessary training to begin rewarding careers that can lead to six-figure earning potential over time.

Episode 19: The American Warrior Initiative Ensuring Your VA Loan Benefit Jun 27, 2018

In this episode, we speak to Angela Allen. Angela is the daughter of one of the first 100 Navy SEALs, Howard Wesley Allen. Howard was a Navy Frogman in the Korean and Vietnam war. He also assisted with the Mercury Missions. After losing her father at a young age, Angela dedicated her life to volunteering and assisting Veterans however they needed. Listen to her unique story in this episode.

As well, we discuss VA Loans in great detail. This is an incredible benefit that goes unused by 94% of Veterans! The benefits of a VA Loan include:

100% financing
No monthly private mortgage insurance required
A limitation on buyer's closing costs
The loan is assumable, subject to VA approval of the assumer's credit
30 year, fixed loan with interest rates similar to FHA rates
Seller can pay up to 4% of the Veteran's closing costs and even pay down the buyer's debt to help lower their debt-to-income ratio
You can have less than perfect credit

Angela will share her story, discuss the American Warrior Initiative, and let us know all the updates regarding upcoming VA Loan program changes.

Special Guest: Angela Allen.

Sponsored By:

Veterans Media: Please register on Veterans Media so we can be in contact with new events, podcasts, and other offers.

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Angela Allen — As a real estate agent, Angela Allen received her accreditation on VA Loans through the American Warrior Institute and has dedicated her life to assisting Veterans.
American Warrior Initiative — The objective of the non-profit American Warrior Initiative 501(c)3 is to educate, encourage and inspire Americans to give back to our military. A key part of this initiative is the education platform for real estate agents and mortgage professionals.

Episode 18: Navy Club Ship 35: Keep the Fleet to Keep the Peace Jun 05, 2018

On 18 June 1938, at a Navy Veterans Reunion in Quincy, Illinois, a new and powerful organization, the Navy Club of the United States of America, was launched. On that day, a Constitution and By-Laws was adopted to govern this unique and distinguished group, speaking the language of the men who go down to the sea in ships.

The original organizational committee drew up a broad administrative charter that envisioned a new concept in collectively bringing together the many private Navy Clubs and Navy Veteran Organizations that had sprung up across the country, and by so doing, give each member and prospective member, a powerful voice as a Nationally Recognized Organization. With the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard men and women of the United States formed together in one great powerful service organization, it was concluded that there should come a more extensive and widespread observance of NAVY DAY, now celebrated on the 13th of October each year, a watchful eye on all legislation and laws that concerns a strong United States Navy and National Defense, a guarantee that our Navy will always be kept at such strengths that there will be no more "Pearl Harbors", a more powerful influence on American thinking on the importance of a "First Class Navy", a better and more informed medium through which the Navy Department can convey its problems to all American citizens, and to join together all sailors, marines and Coast Guard personnel into a closer comradeship.

Special Guest: Geoff McCuen.

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Navy Club — Your membership would give NCUSA the added impetus in total members necessary to voice opinions and objectives to our Congress with regards to their philosophies and actions on MILITARY PERSONNEL POLICY, COMPENSATIONS, and RETIREMENT FORMULAS. NCUSA as a member of the secretary of the Navy's NAVY-MARINE CORPS COUNCIL, composed of 18 Navy oriented organizations, can better serve the Council's objectives by and through a large membership of its own.
Navy Club Ship 35 — USS Indianapolis Ship #35 of Navy Club of the USA was first chartered in July 2001. The club became fully active in February 2002. Three of the original members of the club, Steve Lawson, Ted Headings and Jim Boone, held an organizational meeting for new members of the club that month and began the second life of the club with a nucleus of five members. Since that time period, the club has grown and continues to add new members each month. The club was named in honor of the USS Indianapolis crew members and is proud to have Jimmy O’Donnell, one of the original USS Indianapolis crewmen, as an honorary member.

Episode 17: Marine for Life Network May 20, 2018

Marine For Life is an extension of the Marine ethos “Once a Marine, Always a Marine”. Marine For Life is a continuation of the Marine Corps’ strategic engagement with Marines and their families across the continuum of the Marine For Lifecycle - commencing with their transformational entry into the Corps, symbolized in their earning the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, through their transition to Veteran Marine status and the return of these quality citizens back to their communities.

Marine For Life Network connects transitioning Marines and their family members to education resources, employment opportunities, and other Veterans services that aid in their career and life goals outside of military service.

Special Guests: Andrew Janovicz and Nathan Bibler.

Sponsored By:

Veterans Media: Please register on Veterans Media so we can be in contact with new events, podcasts, and other offers.

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Marine for Life Network — Marine For Life Network (M4L) connects transitioning Marines and their family members to education resources, employment opportunities, and other Veterans services that aid in their career and life goals outside of military service.
LinkedIn: Marine for Life Network — Marine For Life uses LinkedIn groups for online networking opportunities. The Marine For Life LinkedIn networking groups consist of one national group, four regional groups, and several community-specific groups.

Episode 16: Project Healing Waters: Rehabilitation of Disabled Veterans With Fly Fishing Outings May 11, 2018

Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing is unique in that their volunteers are teaching classes on an on-going, long term basis. It is much more than a one-time fishing trip. Their program provides basic fly fishing, fly casting, fly tying and rod building classes for participants whose skills range from beginners who have never fished before, to those with prior fly fishing and tying experience. All fly fishing and tying equipment is provided to the participants at no cost. Fishing trips, both one day and multi-day, are also provided free of charge to participants.

Special Guest: Chris Jackson.

Sponsored By:

Veterans Media: Please register on Veterans Media so we can be in contact with new events, podcasts, and other offers.

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Project Healing Waters — Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing and associated activities including education and outings.

Episode 15: Purple Heart 3 (PH3): Veteran Owned, Veteran Employed, and Veteran First Security Company Apr 17, 2018

On this week's Veteran Cast, we are joined by Michael Fickert, Senior Project Manager of Purple Heart 3, a Veteran Owned & Veteran employed security company out of Indianapolis. Michael joins Veteran Cast to talk about his background in the Army, and then trying to find his purpose again after transitioning into the civilian world. Purple Heart 3 helped Michael find that purpose, and his passion for the organization & their mission is prevalent when he talks. PH3’s main mission is to ensure that the suicide rate among returning combat veterans is reduced.

Special Guest: Michael Fickert.

Sponsored By:

Veterans Media: Please register on Veterans Media so we can be in contact with new events, podcasts, and other offers.

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PH3 LLC — The principals of PH3 are all former, wounded combat Infantrymen and are dedicated to serving others. PH3 hires Veterans that have completed a rigorous vetting process, training, and certification. As well as Patriots, ODLE, DOC, or Retired LEO's for some contracts that call for them.

Episode 14: Indy Custom Cornhole and Its Founder, US Marine Scott Melby Mar 30, 2018

On this week's Veteran Cast, we take a bit of a break from Veteran's affairs and speak to entrepreneur Scott Melby. Scott is a US Marine who founded Indy Custom Cornhole. Indy Custom Cornhole is the first and largest cornhole business in Indiana, starting in 2003, Scott has run over 1400 tournaments, sold thousands of boards and bags and now focus more on the rental sets and monthly competetive cornhole tournaments which feed into a national rankings of over 7000 players that qualify to compete at World Championships every summer.

Special Guest: Scott Melby.

Sponsored By:

Veterans Media: Please register on Veterans Media so we can be in contact with new events, podcasts, and other offers.

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Indy Custom Cornhole — Indy Custom Cornhole has built over 1000 custom sets, including sets for Google, ESPN, IU, Ball State University, Indiana Pacers, Fever and Ice, Indianapolis Colts and Indians, Chipotle, Qdoba, The Fiesta & Rose Bowls and National Championship games.
2018 Run As One — Run As One is held in honor of Marine veteran Clay Hunt, an original member of Team Rubicon, Mission Continues Fellow, and avid sportsman, who took his own life after battling PTSD and depression. Clay was an active participant in many veteran organizations and the event serves as a celebration of the networks that empower, unite, and enrich the lives of veterans. It is a symbol of leadership, action, and collaboration across the veteran landscape globally and within our local communities.

Episode 13: Team Rubicon: Disasters are their Business, Veterans are their Passion. Mar 20, 2018

Team Rubicon’s primary mission is providing disaster relief to those affected by natural disasters, be they domestic or international. By pairing the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders, medical professionals, and technology solutions, Team Rubicon aims to provide the greatest service and impact possible.

Through continued service, Team Rubicon seeks to provide our veterans with three things they lose after leaving the military: a purpose, gained through disaster relief; community, built by serving with others; and identity, from recognizing the impact one individual can make. Coupled with leadership development and other opportunities, Team Rubicon looks to help veterans transition from military to civilian life.

Serving the Underserved. Across the world, disasters are a part of life. No corner of the globe is spared from severe weather – be it crippling winter storms, catastrophic hurricanes, or unchecked wildfires.

By focusing on underserved or economically-challenged communities, Team Rubicon seeks to makes the largest impact possible. Disasters represent a massive financial cost, and by providing immediate relief work, free of cost, TR aims to help communities begin recovery sooner.

Special Guest: Barry Pemberton.

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Team Rubicon — Team Rubicon is nonprofit that utilizes the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams. Founded in 2010, Team Rubicon has deployed across the United States and around the world to provide immediate relief to those impacted by disasters and humanitarian crises.
2018 Run As One — Run As One is held in honor of Marine veteran Clay Hunt, an original member of Team Rubicon, Mission Continues Fellow, and avid sportsman, who took his own life after battling PTSD and depression. Clay was an active participant in many veteran organizations and the event serves as a celebration of the networks that empower, unite, and enrich the lives of veterans. It is a symbol of leadership, action, and collaboration across the veteran landscape globally and within our local communities.

Episode 12: The Mission Continues: Empowering Veterans To Keep Serving and Succeeding Mar 13, 2018

Since their founding, The Mission Continues has always been a nonprofit, non-partisan organization dedicated to bringing together veterans and innovative community organizations to create transformational change for communities in need all across the country.

Their operations in cities nationwide deploy veteran volunteers alongside non-profit partners and community leaders to solve some of the most challenging issues facing our communities: improving community education resources, eliminating food deserts, mentoring at-risk youth and more.

Through this unique model, veterans build new skills and networks that help them successfully reintegrate to life after the military while making long-term, sustainable transformations in communities and inspiring future generations to serve.

We interview an Indianapolis City Impact Manager (Emily) and regional Platoon Leader (Jonathan) to find out how Veterans can get involved and what the impact is to the community.

Special Guests: Emily Ferstle Angus and Jonathan Vatovec.

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The Mission Continues — The Mission Continues empowers veterans who are adjusting to life at home to find purpose through community impact. We deploy veterans on new missions in their communities, so that their actions will inspire future generations to serve.
2018 Run As One — Join us once again for the 7th Annual Run As One. Together with our friends from Team Rubicon and The Mission Continues, we'll run/walk/ride/crawl one lap (3 miles) around the Downtown Canal in Indy. Immediately afterward, we'll be hosting a lunch social at Burgerhaus right on the canal for all participants.
The Mission Continues - Indianapolis — Join the Indianapolis chapter page of Facebook to keep up on the projects that The Mission Continues regionally.

Episode 11: Vetforce: Salesforce Career Accelerator for Military Service Members, Veterans, and Spouses Mar 07, 2018

Salesforce created the Vetforce program to build connections between our ecosystem and the military community. Veterans and spouses embark on one or more learning journeys where they receive structured, self-paced Salesforce training, collaborate in an online community, achieve Salesforce certification, and get connected to high-demand and high-wage employment opportunities in our ecosystem of more than 150,000 customers.

Vetforce is also the internal employee resource group that fosters a strong military community at Salesforce. In this interview, we speak with James Deal, a Veteran and Salesforce employee about his transition, the Vetforce program, and how it impacts Veterans' lives.

Special Guest: James Deal.

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Vetforce — Salesforce is the world's #1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solution and fastest growing enterprise software company. Equality is one of our core values, and Vetforce is our program to increase the number of veterans in cloud computing careers. At Salesforce, we not only hire and support veterans and spouses, but we also invest in military talent to support our customers.

Episode 10: Operation: Job Ready Veterans™ (OJRV) Feb 26, 2018

Operation: Job Ready Veterans™ (OJRV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing veterans, service members and military families for successful employment by connecting them with employers that seek top quality, well-trained employees. We make a personal connection and assist veterans of all eras and ability levels with their employment and career goals.

OJRV was founded in 2007 as the Crane Learning and Employment Center for Veterans with Disabilities – with a focus on helping veterans find employment at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, located in Southwest Indiana.

As the organization grew to serve veterans in Central Indiana, the group changed its name to the Career Learning and Employment Center for Veterans (CLEC). CLEC is a 501(c)3 organization. In 2012, the organization opened the program to all veterans and moved its headquarters to Indianapolis. In 2013, CLEC adopted the d/b/a, Operation: Job Ready Veterans, to more clearly communicate our mission.

Special Guests: Mike Espinda and Tom Reust.

Sponsored By:

Tech Warriors: The Speak Easy, with coworking locations throughout Indianapolis, is offering a Veteran Membership of just $25 per month. Promo Code: Vets

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Operation: Job Ready Veterans — Operation: Job Ready Veterans™ (OJRV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing veterans, service members, military spouses and caregivers for successful employment by connecting them with employers that seek top quality, well-trained employees.
Tech Warriors Part II: March 6, 2018 — The Speak Easy is proud to host Part II of our quarterly event, Tech Warriors. Tech Warriors seeks to connect Veterans with opportunities in local tech companies and educate tech leaders on the advantages of hiring veterans.

Episode 9: Eleven Fifty Coding Academy: Veterans and GI Bill Welcome! Feb 07, 2018

Eleven Fifty's coding academy provides immersive learning programs that help you develop into polished entry-level professionals in weeks not years. They recognize that people in their program are looking to launch or change your career immediately.

In this interview with John Qualls, he shares his experiences as an enlisted Marine, how that prepared him for a career in technology, and what his mission is at Eleven Fifty Academy.

Special Guest: John Qualls.

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Eleven Fifty Academy — Eleven Fifty Academy is bridging the growing technology skills gap by providing immersive training for coders of all skill levels. From introductory coding bootcamps to multi-tiered, advanced learning programs, Eleven Fifty Academy has a program for you.

Episode 8: Transitioning with Post-Traumatic Stress... and News on the YMCA's Support! Jan 30, 2018

The Taylor brothers both served in combat - Scott as an F-15 Fighter Pilot in the Air Force and Ted as an EOD Chief in the Navy. The experiences and transition for these two warriors were starkly different. We discuss the challenges of their journeys here, including post-traumatic stress, and encourage others to listen and get the assistance they need.

As part of the conversation, we also discuss the YMCA's new initiative to serve all Veterans and are building a facility in Indiana specific to treating our warriors returning home.

Special Guests: Scott Taylor and Ted Taylor.

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YLovesVets — YLovesVets – these are words the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is committed to. Every one of us can pitch in to keep veterans and their families strong. Help us pioneer a new kind of YMCA that blends the best community programs with specialized services for veterans and active military.

Episode 7: Run Ranger Run: Support for Transition from Active Military Service to Civilian Life. Jan 25, 2018

In 2013, 3rd Ranger Battalion combat veteran Cory Smith highlighted the difficult transition so many veterans face by making a very difficult, public and personal transition. Cory ran from Columbus, GA to Indianapolis, IN – 565 miles - to his daughter. His example is now a national movement called Run Ranger Run where individuals and teams from around the country raise funds and awareness to assist in the transition from active military to civilian life.

You can join Cory to make a difference right where you are, and bring awareness to the difficult transition many of our honored military veterans face. A team of up to ten individuals will pledge to walk, run and/or ride bicycles a combined total of 565 miles in the month of February (usually 28 days). Teams may be formed from anywhere in the world and your miles can be logged from the comfort of your own home. As a collective, all participants will raise funds for GallantFew and increase awareness for veteran issues surrounding the transition from active military service to civilian life.

Special Guest: Cory Smith.

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Run Ranger Run — A team of up to ten individuals will pledge to walk, run and/or ride bicycles a combined total of 565 miles in the month of February (usually 28 days). Teams may be formed from anywhere in the world and your miles can be logged from the comfort of your own home. As a collective, all participants will raise funds for GallantFew and increase awareness for veteran issues surrounding the transition from active military service to civilian life.
GallantFew — GallantFew’s mission is to prevent veteran isolation by connecting new veterans with hometown veteran mentors, thereby facilitating a peaceful, successful transition from military service to a civilian life filled with hope and purpose.

Episode 6: Travis Manion Foundation: Strengthening America's National Character with Veterans Leading the Way Jan 18, 2018

The Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) is strengthening America’s national character. In an increasingly divisive cultural climate, they unite and strengthen communities. Our nation needs role models that inspire and we should look no further than the civic assets already living in our communities. Veterans and families of the fallen are leading the charge, pushing us to be better versions of ourselves and improving our collective character.

In this episode, we speak to Courtney Mitchell, Director of Development for the Travis Manion Foundation, where she manages the organization's growth and strategy through its national strategic partners.

Special Guest: Courtney Mitchell.

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Travis Manion Foundation — TMF Ambassadors develop character and leadership skills in young adults. Grounded in the evidence-based field of Positive Psychology, they use a strengths-based approach to develop character traits in the next generation through a combination of informal discussions and activity-based learning.
12 Strong — A powerful new war drama that tells the declassified true story of the first American soldiers sent into Afghanistan after 9/11. “12 Strong” is set in the harrowing days following 9/11 when an elite U.S. Special Forces unit, led by their Captain, Mitch Nelson (Hemsworth), is chosen to be the first U.S. soldiers sent into Afghanistan for an extremely dangerous mission in response to the attacks.

Episode 5: INVets: Connecting Veterans From Across the World with Indiana Careers Dec 11, 2017

Armed forces veterans come to the workforce with many of the attributes employers want most: maturity, experience, a can-do attitude and an understanding of teamwork and shared objectives.

Conexus Indiana launched INVets to connect veterans with the thousands of opportunities in the advanced manufacturing and logistics industries, helping them find fulfilling employment in the civilian world and helping employers tap this rich reserve of solid employees.

We interview Wesley Wood, INVets Program Director at Conexus Indiana, on the origins of the program and where they're going from here.

Special Guest: Wesley Wood.

Sponsored By:

Tech Warriors: The Speak Easy, with coworking locations throughout Indianapolis, is offering a Veteran Membership of just $25 per month. Promo Code: Vets

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INVets — Employers across our state are struggling to find enough veteran talent. INvets is a team effort to connect these employers with veterans around the country and make sure the transition process goes as smooth as possible.

Episode 4: What is Team Red, White, & Blue? Dec 06, 2017

Michael Cook is the Director of Indianapolis' Team Red, White, Blue Chapter. Team RWB’s mission is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity.

Enrichment is defined as creating quality relationships and experiences that contribute to life satisfaction and overall wellbeing. The concept of enrichment consists of three core components—health, people, and purpose—that define a rich life.

Enrichment Equation: Enrichment = Health + People + Purpose

People: Creating authentic connections (defined as genuine, quality, supportive relationships that generate mutual trust and accountability), reflected in an increased number of close relationships and improvements in teammates’ sense of belonging, purpose, and community engagement.
Health: Creating frequent opportunities for team members to connect through fitness, sports, and recreation to improve physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
Purpose: Engaging members in meaningful team and community-based experiences such as leadership and service that, beyond physical and social activities, renew self-identity and purpose in life.

Special Guest: Michael Cook.

Sponsored By:

Tech Warriors: The Speak Easy, with coworking locations throughout Indianapolis, is offering a Veteran Membership of just $25 per month. Promo Code: Vets

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Team Read, White & Blue — Team RWB’s mission is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity.
Team RWB Indianapolis — Team RWB Indianapolis Facebook Page.

Episode 3: Why Veterans Join the American Legion Dec 04, 2017

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.

Hundreds of local American Legion programs and activities strengthen the nation one community at a time. American Legion Baseball is one of the nation’s most successful amateur athletic programs, educating young people about the importance of sportsmanship, citizenship and fitness. The Operation Comfort Warriors program supports recovering wounded warriors and their families, providing them with "comfort items" and the kind of support that makes a hospital feel a little bit more like home. The Legion also raises millions of dollars in donations at the local, state and national levels to help veterans and their families during times of need and to provide college scholarship opportunities.

The American Legion is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization with great political influence perpetuated by its grass-roots involvement in the legislation process from local districts to Capitol Hill. Legionnaires’ sense of obligation to community, state and nation drives an honest advocacy for veterans in Washington. The Legion stands behind the issues most important to the nation's veterans community, backed by resolutions passed by volunteer leadership.

The American Legion’s success depends entirely on active membership, participation and volunteerism. The organization belongs to the people it serves and the communities in which it thrives.

Special Guest: Eric Thomas.

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University Veterans Post 360 — University Veterans Post 360 held its inaugural meeting on January 15, 2012, this made IUPUI the first university in the United States to have a campus-based American Legion Post. Post 360 offers a fresh, young face with members who are veterans from current wars. We're associated with a college campus, which self-signifies freshness and youthfulness. This new post is open to all eligible veterans, including faculty, staff and alumni who are veterans as well as active duty service members and veterans who have no affiliation with the university.
American Legion — The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.

Episode 2: No Greater Love Movie: An Interview with Purple Heart Recipient Tom Gorup Nov 08, 2017

No Greater Love depicts the combat deployment of the legendary “No Slack” Battalion, 101st Airborne Division, through the eyes of Army Chaplain Justin David Roberts. While deployed in Afghanistan, Justin decided to carry a camera to document the hardships his unit endured. He captured not only the gritty reality of war but also the incredibly strong bond that is forged between soldiers.

Little did Justin know that his decision to carry a camera would culminate in No Greater Love.

While deployed in Afghanistan, Justin had no intention of making No Greater Love; however, the truly courageous deeds he witnessed (the battalion returned home with over 200 purple hearts) got him thinking about what motivated “regular” guys to become heroes. He asked himself, what drives men to commit acts of valor and sacrifice? Justin discovered that the common thread running through each tragedy was love, and that was a story that deserved to be told.

Layering real war footage with heartfelt interviews with soldiers and Gold Star family members, No Greater Love seeks to help others understand the experience of war and the personal struggles of soldiers, both on the battlefield and once they return home. There are over 20 suicides per day in the veteran population and countless struggles with depression, PTSD, and addiction.

No Greater Love strives to create a dialogue about war and promote healing.

Special Guest: Tom Gorup.

Sponsored By:

DK New Media: DK New Media is a veteran-owned digital media and marketing consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Promo Code: VETS

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Links:

Indianapolis Premiere of "No Greater Love" — Local veteran and Purple Heart recipient Tom Gorup—who is featured in the film—will participate in a post-film Q&A to share his experience and raise awareness for how to get involved and support our local veterans. Tom served 6 years in the U.S. Army. As an Infantry Squad Leader, Tom served two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he received a Purple Heart alongside several other awards for actions on the battlefield.
No Greater Love — No Greater Love depicts the combat deployment of the legendary “No Slack” Battalion, 101st Airborne Division, through the eyes of Army Chaplain Justin David Roberts. While deployed in Afghanistan, Justin decided to carry a camera to document the hardships his unit endured. He captured not only the gritty reality of war but also the incredibly strong bond that is forged between soldiers. Little did Justin know that his decision to carry a camera would culminate in No Greater Love.
Find a Theater — Find a theater playing No Greater Love near you.
Demand "No Greater Love" — Want to see No Greater Love in your home town? Demand No Greater Love play in a movie theater near you by filling out and submitting the form below. Regions with the most unique requests have the highest chance of the film being shown so do share this page with your firends and family.
Rook Security — We are a team of digital defenders—hackers, specialists, engineers, and inventors— united to protect those working to leverage technology to achieve the maximum possible good, while relentlessly hunting those with malicious intent.

Episode 1: Reveille: A Roll Call for Hoosier Veterans Oct 31, 2017

Blaine Zimmerman of Circle City Vets and Matt Hall, the Indianapolis Mayor's Veteran Service Officer join Harrison and Douglas Karr for the inaugural podcast, Veteran Cast. The mission of Veteran Cast is to educate, inform, and improve the lives of Veterans in our community. We're starting with Indianapolis, Indiana since that's our hometown - but the advice and information should be helpful to veterans throughout the United States.

Sponsored By:

DK New Media: DK New Media is a veteran-owned digital media and marketing consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Promo Code: VETS

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Links:

Azimuth — Azimuth connects United States Veterans and their families to local and national programs and services.

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