Welcome Home - A Podcast for Veterans, About Veterans, By Veterans – Details, episodes & analysis

A quiet question—why choose the Army?—opens into a candid story of injury, recovery, and purpose with Eric Thomas, founder of CJ3 Foundation. We dig into how a veteran and first responder-led nonprofit tackles what so many systems miss: putting mental health first, pairing people with real service dogs trained from day one, and showing up as relentless advocates when employers or agencies get in the way.

Eric lays out a simple but demanding model. Before any dog is placed, candidates complete a comprehensive mental health and wellness program that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. Only then does CJ3 pair a Veteran with the right breed and temperament for their lifestyle, from high-drive Belgian Malinois to steady labs or hypoallergenic giants. Training never leaves professional hands; dogs remain in top-tier kennels used by police, military, and federal clients. Handoff is a process, not a moment: a week at the kennel, in-depth handler training, followed by at-home integration and ongoing recertification to prevent bad habits and protect outcomes.

We also discuss the finances and the policy. Through partnerships, CJ3 delivers a fully trained service dog for about $25,000—far less than the long-term costs of unmanaged symptoms, medication stacking, or isolation. Meanwhile, legislation like PAWS and SAVES is inching forward, and CJ3 has pushed to fix exclusions that sidelined reputable providers. Eric argues for a practical line: the VA may not need to fund food and collars, but if a clinician prescribes a service dog, basic veterinary care should be covered to protect the veteran’s lifeline.

Beyond dogs, CJ3’s Field Ops offers safe hunting, fishing, racing, and range days—that rebuild confidence and community for veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS. The organization scales through ambassadors instead of buildings, runs on volunteers, and invests in people and services over infrastructure. If you’ve got skills in design, web, or fundraising, they can use the help. If you’ve got time, show up at a pop-up and meet the handlers and dogs. And if you’ve got the means, your donation goes straight to the mission.

Enjoyed the conversation and want to support the work? Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who could use it, and leave a review so more listeners can find these stories. Then visit CJ3foundation.org and, if you’re able, hit that donate button.

What if a warm, welcoming home sat steps away from the hospital where your loved one is fighting to heal—and it cost your family nothing? We open the door to Fisher House, the nationwide network of free lodging for military and veteran families that turns proximity into peace of mind. Julie Riggs, Vice President of Community Relations at Fisher House Foundation, joins us to share how these homes are built, who they serve, and why a shared kitchen can become the most important room in healthcare.

We trace Fisher House’s growth from early eight-suite homes to today’s 16-suite sweet spot, then look ahead to new builds in Montrose, New York, a fully accessible replacement in West Palm Beach, and the first house in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Julie explains the funding model—Fisher House raises capital and constructs each property, then gifts it to the Department of Defense or VA for staffing and upkeep—so listeners see exactly how donations become bricks, beds, and breathing room for caregivers. We talk eligibility, the reality of months-long stays after severe injuries, and the simple ritual of cooking that binds families into a lasting support network.

When houses are full, Hero Programs keep families covered. Their Hotels for Heroes program steps in with paid hotel stays until a suite becomes available. At the same time, the Hero Miles program turns donated airline miles and hotel points into travel and lodging, allowing caregivers to attend to their duties and service members in treatment to fly home on leave. Along the way, we unpack occupancy patterns, the sites that run near capacity, and the outreach that helps nurses and case managers refer families at the right time. Want to help? Gift cards, new unopened consumables, hygiene kits, miles, and points make an immediate difference—and yes, your local Fisher House manager will gladly share a current needs list.

If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more stories that matter, and leave a quick review so others can find the show. And if you’re ready to act, visit fisherhouse.org to donate, give miles or points, or connect your community group with a local house.

The sky was never meant to be a boundary—especially for those determined enough to break through it. Chef Larry welcomes longtime friend Lois Hobby, whose remarkable 33-year military career broke barriers as one of the first two USAF active-duty female flight engineers on the C-141 Starlifter transport aircraft.

When a sergeant flatly told her, "Women will never fly on the C-141," Hobby didn't accept defeat. Instead, that dismissal became the catalyst for her persistence. Through repeated application rejections, bureaucratic roadblocks, and institutional resistance, she fought her way into the aviation world. From her beginnings as a vehicle operator and ramp driver to accumulating thousands of flight hours monitoring complex aircraft systems at 30,000 feet, Hobby's journey illuminates the challenges women faced entering military aviation in the 1970s and beyond.

Hobby's candid reflections reveal both the technical demands of being a flight engineer and the cultural barriers she navigated daily. "Do your crying in the latrine," she advises, sharing how maintaining absolute professionalism was essential in an environment where any perceived weakness could be exploited. From crew chiefs who couldn't believe she was the engineer to being mistaken as another crew member's wife, her experiences provide a window into changing perceptions about women's capabilities in previously male-dominated fields.

Beyond her professional achievements, the conversation weaves in personal memories between two friends whose paths crossed repeatedly during military service on Guam, creating a warm narrative that balances the serious nature of breaking barriers with the camaraderie that defined military life. Whether you're interested in aviation history, women pioneers, or military culture, Lois Hobby's story demonstrates how determination and excellence can ultimately triumph over prejudice and doubt.

Ever wonder how the VA is transforming healthcare for veterans? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jennifer Cho, Deputy Director of Whole Health at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She'll offer a firsthand glimpse into the transformation of the VA's Whole Health Program, a cutting-edge initiative designed to empower veterans to take charge of their health and live their most fulfilling lives. This is not the old VA: we're talking mindfulness, self-care, and even family involvement in a veteran's health journey.

Dr. Cho shares the remarkable evolution of the VA's offerings, including acupuncture, meditation, and yoga. Stick around for an inspiring story of a veteran who found profound relief from depression through the simple power of focused tasks. We also delve into the paradigm shift happening in veteran healthcare, shifting the focus from 'sick care' to 'health care and life care'. It’s not just about patching up wounds anymore— it's about understanding what truly matters to each veteran and helping them work towards those goals. So don't wait - tune in and discover the groundbreaking ways the VA is enhancing the lives of veterans through the Whole Health Program.

Buckle up as we introduce you to Angela McConnell, the remarkable founder and president of NOVA Vets. Her 22-year military career, beginning at the tender age of 17, equipped her with a unique perspective on the distinct challenges faced by veterans, particularly female Warriors. Angela's personal journey, punctuated by her son's rare genetic condition, has significantly influenced her philosophy towards holistic, person-centered care. Her determination to bridge the gap she identified in services for female veterans led to the inception of NOVA Vets, a beacon for Veterans in need.

Facing challenges head-on is a habit for Angela and her team at NOVA Vets. They are tackling the trifecta of transportation, technology, and food insecurity that plague veterans. Moreover, convincing veterans to accept assistance is another hurdle they've taken in stride. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Angela steered NOVA Vets towards new innovative strategies, including an outreach campaign and proactive follow-up calls, helping an increasing number of veterans find the support they need.

Hear Angela's candid insights on the PACT Act, the process of registering with the VA, and the nuances of applying for disability benefits. Spoiler alert: She sternly warns against paying for claims services and emphasizes the importance of seeking trained professionals for assistance. Angela's commitment to supporting our veterans is clear, and the transformative work NOVA Vets is doing to eliminate barriers and guide veterans through the application process is truly inspiring. We encourage you to dig into this episode for a deeper understanding of the incredible efforts being made to support our veterans. Don't hesitate to reach out with questions or suggestions - we value your participation in this conversation.

What happens when a community conversation sparks an initiative that reshapes the local performing arts landscape for veterans? Dr.  Niyati Dhokai, the Program Director of the Veterans and the Arts Initiative at George Mason University's Hylton Performing Arts Center, joins us to recount this transformative journey. From humble beginnings, this initiative has grown into a vibrant hub offering music, visual art, writing, theater, and dance workshops and hosting special events like Veterans Day celebrations and concerts throughout the year.

When the pandemic hit, the Veterans and the Arts Initiative had to think on their feet. We discuss how they adapted swiftly, implementing innovative practices that ensured safe instrument access and allowed the initiative to go virtual. This shift kept the local community engaged and widened the initiative's reach, reconnecting with members who had moved away. Dr. Dhokai shares how they stayed in touch with their community members, ensuring their continued involvement. She also unveils plans for an upcoming virtual writing workshop series targeting women veterans, an exciting new chapter for the initiative.

We wrap up our conversation by highlighting George Mason University's Military Veterans and Families Initiative.  As we look ahead to the 2024 schedule, Dr. Dhokai paints a picture of George Mason University's extensive support to the military and veteran student population and military families in the community. Join us for this compelling discussion illustrating art's vital role in the veteran community.

Prepare to be captivated as we share the inspiring story of Dave Seitz, the founder of 19hands.org, and the heart and soul behind the therapeutic War Horse Forge program. Dave's journey from a small weekend hobby to running a fully-fledged organization dedicated to helping veterans and first responders is nothing short of enthralling. He paints a vivid picture of how a casual lunch conversation sparked a project that now spreads joy, camaraderie, and new skills to many deserving individuals. 

Our energetic dialogue with Dave also delves into the intriguing process of forging at War Horse Forge. Imagine the sound of a hammer striking a railroad spike, the heat of the forge, and the satisfaction of bending metal to your will. Yes, we cover it all - from the safety precautions to the tools and techniques of blacksmithing. Do you feel the surge of excitement yet? Wait until you hear about how this process has therapeutic effects, helping those who've served us find a different kind of peace in the rhythm and challenge of blacksmithing.

Lastly, let's not forget about the annual family-friendly extravaganza - Cookies with the Clydesdales. Dave shares this event's vibrancy and excitement, featuring blacksmith and smelting demonstrations, live music, and much more. And for those interested, don't worry if it's already sold out! Dave gives us the inside scoop on how you can still be a part of this event. So, ready to be inspired, learn, and be a part of something truly wonderful? Then this episode is a must-listen.

Are you ready to explore the world of military spouses with Kathleen Palmer, Director of Content at Mission Milspouse, as our insightful guide? Buckle up as we delve into the commendable work of this transformative organization that empowers military spouses through resources, training, podcasts, and a blog populated by military spouse contributors. Kathleen enlightens us on the national reach of the organization and their initiatives to foster a sense of community among military spouses globally.

We dig deep into the significance of the new Army Spouses Handbook and how Mission Milspouse is intricately involved in ensuring every volunteer finds their rightful place. We tackle the challenges unique to military spouses, such as non-transferable professional licenses between states and how technology is becoming an integral part of their lives. We also highlight how Mission Milspouse is leveraging podcasts to spotlight champions of change. So, join us for this inspiring conversation with Kathleen Palmer, and let's celebrate the courage and resilience of military spouses together.

Let's take a revealing journey with Amy Wolfe, the Artistic Director of the Manassas Ballet Theatre, as she gives us an inside look into her world of ballet. Amy takes us back to the heart of the ballet company she founded in 1997 and shares the emotive story behind the ballet she crafted in memory of her son Colin - a Marine who tragically lost his life serving in Iraq. Listen closely as she recounts the birth of this ballet, its reception, and how it's since grown and toured, touching hearts along the way.

Moving forward, Amy gives us a sneak peek into their upcoming November production. Veterans and first responders, you're in for a treat with exciting ticket discounts and freebies. She also shares the ingenious ways the company has adapted to the pandemic, merging technology with art for teaching and performances. Finally, prepare to be inspired as she talks about the commendable work of the Hilton Veterans and Arts Initiative, their adaptations amid COVID-19, and her dreams and hopes for the future of Manassas Ballet Theatre. Come immerse yourself in this captivating world of ballet, emotion, and resilience. There is no better introduction to Ballet for kids and adults, than the production Colin: Son, Marine, Hero.

Ready to gallop into an inspiring conversation? We had the absolute privilege of sitting down with Katie Fallon, the dynamic force behind Bridle Paths, a non-profit organization doing remarkable work with equine-assisted services. Katie walks us through the heart of their mission - fostering relationships and trust, enhancing communication and connection, and nurturing emotional attunement. Bridle Paths works wonders with veterans, service members, and their families, using their intuitive horses to create an environment of safety and understanding, sparking connections that encourage the mind to think and absorb. 

In the second half of our chat, we explore Bridle Paths' special program for veterans, supported by a grant from the Veterans Administration. Here's where the magic really happens - individualized therapy sessions put veterans in touch with the horses, their peers, and most importantly, themselves. Katie even shares a sneak peek into their upcoming fundraiser at Lost Creek Winery. All this is to ensure their services remain free of cost for those who've given so much - our veterans, service members, and military families. Listen in and be moved by their work's heartfelt dedication and transformative impact. So saddle up and join us on this unforgettable journey through the healing power of horses.