Explore every episode of the podcast The Outreach Project
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How Hometown Hero Outdoors Helps Veterans Reconnect Through the Outdoors (Ep. 1) | 24 Dec 2025 | 01:11:52 | |
In our first episode of The Outreach Project, we sit down with Hometown Hero Outdoors, a nonprofit dedicated to reconnecting veterans and first responders through peer-led outdoor experiences. Hometown Hero Outdoors creates space for healing, connection, and community by getting people outside — hunting, fishing, camping, and simply spending time together with others who understand the weight of service. This conversation goes beyond the mission statement to explore why this work matters, how shared experiences build trust, and what real outreach looks like when it’s done with intention. We talk purpose after service, the power of community, and how organizations like HHO are filling gaps that formal systems often can’t. This episode sets the tone for what The Outreach Project is about: honest conversations, real impact, and highlighting organizations that are doing the work when no one’s watching. 🎙️ Featured Organization: Hometown Hero Outdoors | |||
| Helping Veterans & First Responders Find Purpose — Veterans Creed Outdoors | EP 2 | 31 Dec 2025 | 01:10:58 | |
In Episode 2 of The Outreach Project (TOP), we sit down with Leo Richardson, who leads the Texas Chapter of Veteran’s Creed Outdoors, to highlight the mission, impact, and national reach of this veteran-led nonprofit organization. Veteran’s Creed Outdoors is a national organization dedicated to helping veterans reconnect with purpose, brotherhood, and service through outdoor experiences rooted in faith, accountability, and community. While Leo shares insight into the work being done in Texas, this conversation intentionally elevates Veteran’s Creed Outdoors at the national level, the values they stand for, the lives they are impacting across the country, and why their model continues to resonate with veterans searching for connection after service. In this episode, we discuss: The national mission and vision of Veteran’s Creed Outdoors. Why brotherhood and service still matter after military service. How local chapters support a unified national purpose. The role of the outdoors in restoring identity and connection. How veterans can get involved and support the mission This episode is about giving Veteran’s Creed Outdoors the recognition they deserve nationwide. ⸻ 🔗 Links Veteran’s Creed Outdoors (National) https://veteranscreedoutdoors.org Veteran’s Creed Outdoors — Texas Chapter (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/veterans_creed_outdoors_texas Referenced Video: “He Came Home From War Broken – Then Built Redemption by Hand” Josh Melching | I Am Redemption https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6T5doZbPHO4 Community Support: Support Jamie Melching’s Cancer Battle https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-jamie-melchings-cancer-battle Listen to The Outreach Project: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3K3Ysh7IntL4sCiQgYklhY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-1-hometown-hero-outdoors-reconnecting-through/id1863858977 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4c598486-8ada-4af2-b950-60d5e32812ad/the-outreach-project Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOutreachProjectHq Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_outreachproject/ Contact the Podcast: theoutreachprojectpodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Helping Homeless Veterans Rebuild Their Lives — Warriors Refuge | EP 3 | 07 Jan 2026 | 01:16:33 | |
In this episode of The Outreach Project, we sit down with Ariel Lara from The Warrior’s Refuge to discuss their mission to end veteran homelessness in Texas — and ultimately across America. We explore how The Warrior’s Refuge helps veterans restart life with dignity through shelter, transitional living, case management, counseling, vocational training, and job placement. Ariel shares how veterans are brought in from across Texas and beyond to receive the stability and support needed to rebuild and move forward. This conversation is a reminder that visibility leads to action — and action creates real impact. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of help, please reach out. You don’t have to do this alone. 🔗 CONNECT WITH THE WARRIOR’S REFUGE 🌐 Website: https://thewarriorsrefuge.us 🔗 CONNECT WITH THE OUTREACH PROJECT 🎧 Spotify 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Amazon Music | |||
| Helping Veterans & First Responders Heal — Frontline Healing Foundation | EP 4 | 14 Jan 2026 | 01:18:25 | |
In this episode of The Outreach Project, we’re honored to welcome Jordyn Jureczki — U.S. Navy Veteran, former law enforcement officer, and CEO of Frontline Healing Foundation (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to removing financial barriers to mental health and addiction treatment for military, veterans, and first responders). frontlinehealingfoundation.org Jordyn shares her deeply personal journey from the military and LEO patrol work through her own challenges with trauma and healing, to leading a foundation that helps warriors access critical care — often when insurance and traditional resources fall short. We dive into the mission of Frontline Healing Foundation, its impact on PTSD, addiction, TBI support, and how communities can come alongside those who have served. Learn how you can support warriors on their healing journey, and why breaking the silence around trauma matters now more than ever. 🔗 Follow & Support Frontline Healing Foundation: 🎥 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring stories on The Outreach Project! | |||
| Helping Veterans Find Purpose After Service — Freedom Alliance | EP 6 | 28 Jan 2026 | 01:36:44 | |
In this powerful episode of The Outreach Project, we sit down with Tom Kilgannon, President of Freedom Alliance, to explore how immersive outdoor experiences can help veterans heal from the invisible wounds of war. Freedom Alliance has spent decades honoring and supporting America’s military community, and in this episode we go beyond the mission statement — into the forests and waters of Sitka, Alaska — to hear firsthand how nature, purpose, and camaraderie are reshaping lives. From quiet riverbanks to misty mountain trails, we talk with Tom about: The transformative role of the outdoors in veteran recovery Freedom Alliance’s programs that foster peer connection and support Veteran stories of resilience, renewal, and rediscovery Finding peace after service through purposeful experience This episode is a journey into the restorative power of nature, the strength of shared service, and what it truly means to heal through the outdoors. 🌐 Website: https://freedomalliance.org/ | |||
| Creating Life-Changing Memories for Veterans & Children — Southern Outdoor Dreams | EP 5 | 21 Jan 2026 | 01:13:53 | |
In Episode 5 of The Outreach Project, we highlight Southern Outdoor Dreams, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing outdoor adventures for disabled youth and combat wounded veterans. Southern Outdoor Dreams believes the outdoors can be a powerful source of healing, confidence, and connection. By bringing together volunteers, guides, and community partners, they create safe, accessible, and meaningful hunting and fishing experiences at no cost to participants. 🎙️ In this episode, we cover: | |||
| From Loss to Purpose After Military Service — Dustin Brister | EP 7 | 01 Feb 2026 | 01:09:50 | |
In our first Spotlight episode, we sit down with Navy veteran and Austin-based taxidermist Dustin Brister. Dustin shares his journey from small-town Texas to the Navy, the loss of his younger brother to suicide, and the moment he decided to break the cycle of alcohol and generational trauma. We talk about healing through the outdoors, the power of community, and why “reaching out” can change everything especially for those carrying the aftermath. 🔹 Animal Art Taxidermy https://www.facebook.com/people/Animal-Art-Taxidermy-Austin-TX/100063545984378/ 🔹 Archery Country http://austinarcherycountry.com/ | |||
| Episode 11: Steve Brush – From Force Recon to Leadership Coach | Combat, Identity Loss & Post-Traumatic Growth | 25 Feb 2026 | 01:36:26 | |
In Episode 11 of The Outreach Project Podcast, we sit down with Steve Brush, former Force Recon Marine, 13-time combat veteran, and leadership coach with Rope Solutions. Steve served with both 5th and 1st Force Recon Companies and completed multiple deployments to Afghanistan — including operations in Sangin and during the fall of Kabul. After transitioning from the Marine Corps, Steve led large-scale security operations in the Middle East overseeing more than 2,000 personnel. But this episode isn’t just about combat. It’s about identity loss. Steve shares his battle with post-deployment isolation, depression, and nearly taking his own life — and how the Warrior PATHH program helped him rediscover purpose, leadership, and faith. Today, Steve serves as a leadership coach with Rope Solutions, helping high-risk industries build elite culture through special operations leadership principles. This is one of the most raw and powerful conversations we’ve had.
Topics Covered: Growing up in a Marine Corps family Force Recon selection and deployment to Sangin Combat trauma and identity loss The fall of Afghanistan from inside Kabul Veteran transition challenges Post-Traumatic Growth Warrior PATHH program Leadership culture in high-risk industries Rope Solutions methodology Faith, sobriety, and rebuilding family relationships | |||
| Episode 10: Climbing a Mountain with Rucking Realty Group | Marine Veteran Real Estate Story | 17 Feb 2026 | 01:05:04 | |
Mike and Natalie Evans—founders of Rucking Realty Group—join us for Episode 10. Mike is a Marine Corps infantry veteran, and together they’ve built a family-run real estate business in San Antonio rooted in leadership, service, and doing the hard work others won’t. Mike explains why the home-buying process is like rucking up a mountain—and why the right team carries the load with you until you reach the summit. Connect with Rucking Realty Group Website: https://ruckingrealtygroup.com/ Explore The Outreach Project https://www.theoutreach-project.com | |||
| The Hidden Mental Health Battle After Military Retirement — Tyler Burgett | EP 9 | 11 Feb 2026 | 01:45:46 | |
Tyler Burgett is a retired Special Warfare operator who faced some of the hardest battles of his life after leaving active duty. Following medical retirement, a divorce, and the loss of close family members, Tyler found himself struggling with substance abuse and thoughts of suicide. The identity he built through service felt stripped away. The mission was gone. The structure was gone. And for a while, so was hope. But this is not a story about defeat. With the help of close friends and veteran-serving nonprofits, Tyler began rebuilding his life. Today, he is on the path to becoming a therapist — committed to helping others navigate the same darkness he once faced. In this episode, we discuss: If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Explore veteran and first responder nonprofits nationwide: Listen on Spotify: Watch on YouTube: The Outreach Project exists to connect people with real resources — and the stories behind them. | |||
| How Veterans Are Healing PTSD & Saving Marriages | Hero’s Journey Foundation | EP 8 | 04 Feb 2026 | 01:13:40 | |
In this episode of The Outreach Project Podcast, we sit down with Joe and Gabriella, founders of Hero’s Journey Healing Foundation, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about healing, identity, and rebuilding life after service. Joe, an Army veteran, shares his journey through military transition, PTSD, addiction, and the loss of identity that so many veterans and first responders face. Together with Gabriella, they discuss how their experience with ayahuasca-assisted healing, combined with counseling, community, and spousal support, helped transform not just the individual — but the entire family unit. This episode explores: The hidden mental health struggles after military and first-responder service Why identity loss fuels isolation, addiction, and depression What it truly means to heal the unit, not just the individual How ayahuasca is discussed as part of a responsible, guided healing process The critical role spouses play in long-term recovery Why community, accountability, and integration matter after breakthroughs ⚠️ This is not a conversation about shortcuts or quick fixes. Ayahuasca is discussed in the context of intentional healing, proper guidance, and long-term support. If you or someone you love is struggling with transition, trauma, or purpose after service, this episode offers perspective, hope, and a reminder that you don’t have to walk the path alone. 🌐 Website: https://www.herosjourneyheals.org/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOutreachProjectHq 🔗 Guest Resources — Hero’s Journey Healing Foundation🎧 Listen / Watch Now — The Outreach Project | |||
| Episode 12: Hero to the Line: Life-Changing Labs for Veterans | Tyler Stankye + Dustin Brister | 03 Mar 2026 | 01:08:51 | |
Episode 12 drops a day early — and we’re cooking. 🎙️🔥 HTTL is building community by placing well-bred Labrador Retriever puppies with veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star families — then surrounding them with a tribe of support, training knowledge, and real-life connection. We talk: Why a dog can create routine, purpose, and momentum How HTTL protects the mission with accountability + standards The difference community makes when the uniform comes off Dustin’s story: how his pup changed the way he leads at home 🔗 Learn more / apply / support: https://hero2theline.org/ Follow + Subscribe: | |||
| Episode 15: Back Country Heroes | Kaleb Weakley on Combat, Purpose & Healing | 25 Mar 2026 | 01:12:35 | |
Episode 15 of The Outreach Project features Kaleb Weakley, founder of Back Country Heroes — a nonprofit helping veterans and first responders rediscover purpose through outdoor experiences. In this episode: This isn’t just hunting — it’s healing, identity, and finding your way back. — 🎯 FEATURED ORGANIZATION — 🌐 THE OUTREACH PROJECT — 💥 SPONSOR — 🎯 MISSION — #Veterans #MilitaryPodcast #BackCountryHeroes #KalebWeakley #FirstResponders #OutdoorHealing #PTSDRecovery #Nonprofits #TheOutreachProject | |||
| Why We Started The Outreach Project — Jonathan Hodge & Josh Melching | EP 14 | 18 Mar 2026 | 01:21:45 | |
In Episode 14 of The Outreach Project Podcast, we flip the script and turn the cameras on ourselves. For the first time, Jonathan Hodge and Josh Melching sit down to talk about the story behind The Outreach Project, why we started it, and what drives us to keep building this mission. We dig into military transition, the nonprofit resource gap, the power of storytelling, and why so many veterans and first responders still do not know what support is available to them. We also talk about: Josh’s journey from aircraft maintenance to TACP and how nonprofit retreats changed his life Hodge’s military career, family story, and the passion behind helping others transition Why the directory and app matter so much to us The real reason this project became bigger than a podcast Funny behind-the-scenes moments, outtakes, and the chaos of building all this in real time This episode is personal, honest, and a look behind the curtain at the men and mission behind The Outreach Project. If you have been following the show, thank you for being here. If this is your first episode, welcome to the mission. The Outreach Project connects veterans, first responders, and families to trusted nonprofit resources across the country. #TheOutreachProject #Veterans #FirstResponders #Nonprofits #VeteranResources #MilitaryTransition #Podcast #VeteranPodcast #MentalHealth #PurposeAfterService | |||
| Episode 13: Brain Treatment Center NoVA on MeRT, PTSD, TBI & Brain Health | 11 Mar 2026 | 01:04:28 | |
Episode 13 of The Outreach Project Podcast features Chris and Marsha Lessard from Brain Treatment Center NoVA, a veteran-owned clinic serving Northern Virginia with locations in Ashburn and Alexandria. In this episode, we talk about MeRT therapy, PTSD, TBI, brain mapping, functional health, and whole-person healing — plus the spouse perspective, long-term recovery, and why more veterans and first responders need to know these resources exist. We also get into the real-world side of recovery: sleep issues, inflammation, medication dependency, brain injuries, and the need for better options and better awareness in the veteran and first responder communities. Powered by GameDay Men’s Health — including Alamo Ranch and New Braunfels, Texas — helping men take control of their health through testosterone therapy, ED treatment, weight loss support, and more. In this episode: MeRT and how it differs from standard TMS PTSD and TBI recovery Brain mapping and functional medicine Spouse and family impact Hope, healing, and veteran resources Connect with Brain Treatment Center NoVA: Follow The Outreach Project and explore more resources below. #TheOutreachProject #PTSD #TBI #MeRT #BrainHealth #Veterans #FirstResponders #MentalHealth #Healing #Podcast Website: https://www.theoutreach-project.com/
Watch, listen, share, and send this to somebody who needs it. | |||
| Outdoor Healing, Brotherhood & Second Chances — Changed by Nature Outdoors | EP 23 | 20 May 2026 | 00:45:18 | |
Justin from Changed by Nature Outdoors joins The Outreach Project to discuss how the outdoors became a way to reconnect, heal, and build community. This episode dives into hunting, fishing, suicide prevention, mentorship, nonprofit collaboration, and the powerful role the outdoors can play for veterans, first responders, youth, and families. Powered by Apex Global Outdoors and VetNav Services. Learn more: The Outreach Project: | |||
| Helping Veterans & First Responders Find Purpose Again — Sheepdog Impact Assistance | EP 22 | 13 May 2026 | 00:59:33 | |
In this episode of The Outreach Project Podcast, we sit down with Raffy Morales from Sheepdog Impact Assistance to talk about purpose, PTSD, post-traumatic growth, and the reality many veterans and first responders face after service. From disaster response missions and outdoor adventures to Warrior PATHH and Sheepdog University, Sheepdog Impact Assistance is helping veterans and first responders get off the couch, reconnect with purpose, and realize they are not alone in the fight. This conversation dives deep into: One of the most powerful moments of this episode comes when Raffy shares the story of a veteran who arrived with a suicide note in his pocket — and left with hope. 👇 SUPPORT & CONNECT WITH THESE ORGANIZATIONS 👇 🐑 Sheepdog Impact Assistance: 🏡 Hometown Hero Outdoors: 🎯 Veterans Creed Outdoors: 🇺🇸 Say When & Remember Him Foundation: ⚔️ Til Valhalla Project: 👇 SPONSORS 👇 💪 Game Day Men’s Health (Mission Sponsor) 🏠 Rucking Realty Group (Impact Sponsor) 👇 THE OUTREACH PROJECT LINKS 👇 🌐 Website: 📸 Instagram: 🎥 YouTube: #Veterans #FirstResponders #PTSD #MentalHealth #SheepdogImpactAssistance #WarriorPATHH #PostTraumaticGrowth #VeteranSupport #TheOutreachProject #DisasterResponse #SuicidePrevention #OutdoorTherapy #Podcast | |||
| Building High-Performance Teams in Oil & Gas — Rope Solutions EP 21 | 06 May 2026 | 01:01:00 | |
This week on The Outreach Project, we sit down with CJ from Rope Solutions — a veteran-led team bringing elite leadership, communication, and performance coaching into high-risk industries like oil & gas.From Green Beret experience to real-world leadership on the rig, this episode breaks down what leadership actually looks like when it matters most.🔗 ROPE SOLUTIONS🌐 https://www.ropesolutions.com📸 https://www.instagram.com/ropesolutionsofficial/💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/rope-solutions-llc/🎙️ WATCH MORE FROM THE OUTREACH PROJECT👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheOutreachProjectHQ🇺🇸 THE OUTREACH PROJECT🌐 https://www.theoutreach-project.com📸 https://www.instagram.com/the_outreachproject🔥 WHAT YOU’LL LEARNLeadership under pressureBuilding trust in high-risk environmentsWhy execution beats theoryHow veteran leadership translates to industry⚠️ SHARE THISIf this episode resonates — send it to someone who needs it.#RopeSolutions #Leadership #Veterans #Podcast #OutreachProject #HighPerformance #Teamwork #MentalHealth #FirstResponders #MilitaryTransition | |||
| Veteran Outdoor Therapy & Community Support — The Fallen Outdoors | EP 20 | 28 Apr 2026 | 01:11:59 | |
Maybe it’s not about the activity… maybe it’s about connection. The Fallen Outdoors is doing far more than outdoor trips — they’re building a nationwide community where veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders can reconnect, heal, and find purpose. With operations in over 35 states and thousands of veterans impacted each year, this organization proves that sometimes the most powerful resource… is simply being around people who understand. In this episode, we sit down with the leadership behind The Fallen Outdoors to talk about: Building connection through shared experiences Supporting veterans beyond traditional systems Creating real community at scale Why “meeting people where they are” actually works 🎯 SUPPORT / LEARN MORE🌐 The Fallen Outdoors: https://thefallenoutdoors.org/ 🇺🇸 THE OUTREACH PROJECT🌐 https://www.theoutreach-project.com 🤝 SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by The Vets Vet 🧠 KEY TAKEAWAY This episode reinforces exactly what TOP is about: 👉 It’s not a lack of resources And that’s what The Fallen Outdoors is solving. #veterans | |||
| How Horses Are Healing Veterans | Hoof to Heart Vets (EP 19) | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:47:54 | |
How horses are helping veterans heal from PTSD and trauma.In Episode 19, we talk with Hoof to Heart Vets about equine therapy.In this episode we sit down with Michele Freeman, Air Force veteran and founder of Hoof to Heart Vets.After years of service including working in mortuary affairs Michele found healing through horses. Now she’s helping other veterans, first responders, and families find that same peace through ground-based equine therapy.This episode dives into trauma, recovery, and a powerful alternative approach to mental health that’s changing lives.🎧 Watch more episodes:https://www.youtube.com/@TheOutreachProjectHQ 🌐 Explore nonprofits:https://www.theoutreach-project.com 👇 Connect with Hoof to Heart Vets:https://hooftoheartvets.com/ Instagram: @hooftoheart17 In this episode:• How horses provide real therapeutic healing • Michele’s journey from service to purpose • Why female veterans need dedicated spaces • The power of connection without riding • How Hoof to Heart is making an impact #Veterans #Nonprofit #MentalHealth #EquineTherapy #PTSD #TheOutreachProject | |||
| Episode 18: MOS Veteran Adventures | Hunting, Healing & Saving Veterans Lives Beyond the Campfire | 15 Apr 2026 | 01:10:05 | |
In Episode 18 of The Outreach Project Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Benham, founder of MOS Veteran Adventures — a nonprofit that’s changing how veterans are supported across the country. This isn’t just about hunting and fishing trips… This is about what happens AFTER the trip ends. MOS Veteran Adventures is doing what most organizations won’t: As Kyle puts it — they do “the fun stuff… and the hard stuff.” From sitting around campfires to sitting in VA waiting rooms, this episode dives into: Why outdoor experiences help veterans heal The massive gap in nonprofit follow-through How MOS Veteran Adventures is stepping up Real-world impact stories that will hit you With over 1.9 million nonprofits in the U.S., the problem isn’t resources — it’s access. This episode shows what it looks like when someone actually bridges that gap. 🔗 CONNECT WITH MOS VETERAN ADVENTURES 🌐 Website: https://mosveteranadventures.com/ 🌐 Website: https://www.theoutreach-project.com Brotherhood doesn’t end when the trip does Real impact requires follow-through Outdoor experiences can be life-changing — but support is what sustains it Showing up consistently is what saves lives If this episode hit you: | |||
| Episode 17: From Pain to Purpose – How Stem Cell Therapy Is Healing Veterans & First Responders | 08 Apr 2026 | 01:34:41 | |
In Episode 17 of The Outreach Project Podcast, we sit down with the Miracle Hope Foundation to uncover a powerful—and controversial—solution that’s changing lives: stem cell therapy. From chronic pain and broken bodies… We talk: The reality of life after service Why traditional treatments aren’t working The science behind stem cell therapy The mental and physical toll no one talks about And how organizations like Miracle Hope are stepping in This one is raw, honest, and might just change how you think about healing. 🌐 Website: https://www.theoutreach-project.com 🤝 Miracle Hope Foundation: https://miraclehopefoundation.org | |||
| Episode 16: “Say When. Remember Him.” | A Gold Star Family’s Mission | 01 Apr 2026 | 01:09:46 | |
This is one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had. We sat down with Joy and Amber from the **Say When & Remember Him Foundation** — a family honoring Seth’s life by helping others find purpose after loss. From tragedy to impact: 🇺🇸 Supporting Gold Star families 🎓 Funding trade school scholarships 🤝 Building a legacy that won’t be forgotten This episode is about sacrifice, resilience, and what it truly means to **remember those who served.**“Say his name. Remember him.” 👇 Watch now. https://youtube.com/@theoutreachprojecthq 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3K3Ysh7IntL4sCiQgYklhY 🍎 Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-outreach-project/id1863858977 🌐 Website https://www.theoutreach-project.com 👉 Say When & Remember Him Foundationhttps://www.facebook.com/p/Say-When-and-Remember-Him-100092266125091/ Their work is making a real impact — from scholarships to supporting Gold Star families.Let’s make sure Seth’s story continues to reach people who need to hear it. #GoldStarFamilies #VeteranSupport #TheOutreachProject #NonprofitSpotlight #SayHisName #RememberThem #MilitaryStories #Podcast | |||