Welcome to another episode of  The Unseen Journey, a captivating podcast dedicated to uplifting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. Join us as we welcome the incredible Cheryl and dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of first deployment families. Together, they explore the intricate tapestry of trauma recovery post-deployment, unraveling the impact on family dynamics and uncovering powerful coping mechanisms. Get ready for an insightful conversation that delves into the importance of understanding trauma and the resilient spirit that guides us through life’s toughest challenges.

Key Points:

Support for Veterans:

The podcast aims to provide support and resources for veterans and their families as they navigate life after military service.

Mental Health and Resilience:

The discussion touches on invisible wounds, mental health challenges, and strategies for resilience among veterans and their families.

Parenting and Blind Spots:

Cheryl discusses parenting challenges, the importance of creating safe spaces for growth and learning, and addressing blind spots in personal development.

Trauma and Coping:

Personal experiences of trauma post-deployment are shared, including coping mechanisms like therapy and recognizing blind spots in behavior.

Trauma Recovery:

The conversation revolves around the host’s journey through trauma recovery post-deployment, highlighting experiences of hyper-vigilance, coping mechanisms, and the impact on family life.

Supportive Spouse:

The discussion emphasizes the role of a supportive spouse in understanding and navigating trauma-related behaviors and challenges, highlighting the importance of communication and empathy.

Navigating Protocols and Education:

The episode touches on challenges in navigating protocols and education around trauma, including experiences in therapy, dialogue with schools regarding safety drills, and the importance of veteran-led support and resources.

Quotable Moments:

“The military is a second language because it really does have its own dialog.”

“Making a safe space to take risks, have opportunities for failure, and learn from that failure is crucial for growth.”

“Addressing blind spots allows us to confront who we are and who we want to be, especially in parenting roles.”

The post Trauma and Family Dynamics Post-Military appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

Welcome to The Unseen Journey, a podcast dedicated to supporting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. In this episode, host Guy introduces special guest Tonja, who shares her experiences with the Alpha Stim device and its impact on mental health and well-being. They also get into the various applications of the Alpha Stim, its benefits, and how it has helped veterans manage conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia.

Key Points:

Introduction to Alpha Stim:

The episode begins with a brief introduction to The Unseen Journey podcast, highlighting its focus on mental health support for veterans. Guy introduces Tonja, who shares her background and experiences with the Alpha Stim device.

Alpha Stim Experience:

Tonja describes her initial experience with the Alpha Stim during an individual retreat and how it took several sessions to find the right settings for her. She emphasizes the device’s impact on improving her sleep quality and reducing headaches.

Benefits and Applications:

The conversation expands to discuss the broader benefits of the Alpha Stim, including its efficacy in managing anxiety, chronic pain, and other related conditions. Tonja shares personal anecdotes and insights into how the device has positively influenced her daily life and family dynamics.

Accessibility and Usage:

Tonja highlights the accessibility of the Alpha Stim through programs like Operation Red Wings Foundation and its availability for veterans through healthcare providers like the VA. She also shares tips on using the device effectively in different settings, such as during travel or before stressful events like exams.

Versatility of Alpha Stim:

Tonja emphasizes the versatility of the Alpha Stim device, mentioning that it can be worn on the head or clipped onto clothing, making it convenient for use in various settings. She shares personal experiences of using it as a passenger in a car, highlighting its ease of use and effectiveness in preventing drowsiness without falling asleep at the wheel.

Consistency and Benefits:

Tonja stresses the importance of consistent use of the Alpha Stim for optimal results, noting that gradual changes over time contribute to improved energy levels and reduced anxiety. She shares insights into how self-care practices like using the Alpha Stim can enhance overall well-being and enable individuals to show up positively in their relationships and daily activities.

Quotable Moments:

“The Alpha Stim was a game-changer for me. It improved my sleep quality and reduced the frequency of headaches.”

“Consistent use of the Alpha Stim has positively impacted my next-day energy levels and overall well-being.”

“Using the Alpha Stim has allowed me to show up more positively for my family, reducing the impact of my mental health challenges on our daily lives.”

Links Mentioned:

Home

The post Empowering Veterans through Alpha Stim appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

In this episode, host Guy introduces special guest Kristy to discuss hyperbaric chamber therapy and its benefits for veterans and others. They explore the technology, treatment process, and funding options, shedding light on an alternative approach to healing and wellness. Join is for valuable insights into hyperbaric chamber therapy and its potential impact on veterans’ health and well-being, and a broader conversation about alternative healing approaches.

Key Points:

Exploring Hyperbaric Chamber Therapy: 

The discussion delves into the concept of hyperbaric chambers, their benefits, and the treatment process, including the use of medical oxygen and masks.

Funding and Accessibility: 

Guy and Kristy discuss funding options for hyperbaric chamber treatments, including TRICARE and VA referrals, making it accessible to veterans in different states.

Alternative Healing Approaches: 

The conversation touches on the importance of exploring alternative therapies beyond medications, highlighting the potential benefits for veterans’ overall well-being.

Approved Conditions for Chamber Treatment:

The conversation delves into the approved conditions for hyperbaric chamber treatments, exploring the criteria and protocols for accessing this life-changing therapy.

Holistic Benefits:

Kristy and Guy discuss the holistic benefits of hyperbaric chamber therapy, ranging from brain health to nerve regeneration and wound healing, emphasizing the importance of a multi-faceted approach to wellness.

Discovering Different Healing Approaches:

The discussion extends to alternative healing approaches beyond medications, including accelerated resolution therapy and alpha stem, highlighting the diverse options available for veterans’ well-being.

Frequency and Protocol:

Questions about the frequency of chamber treatments and their impact on daily life are addressed, providing insights into the practical aspects of incorporating this therapy into one’s routine.

Quotable Moments:

 “There are a lot of veterans who get on pills, but exploring alternative therapies can be really beneficial.”

“Approaching problems with the body requires multiple aspects. Adding one more option to the kit bag for healing is awesome.”

Links Mentioned:

https://www.orwfoundation.org

https://hbot4heroes.org/

The post Hyperbaric Chambers & Holistic Wellness for Veterans appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

In this episode of The Unseen Journey podcast, we delve into the life experiences and challenges faced by a veteran who shares his journey of transitioning from military service to civilian life. From struggles with mental health to finding support and understanding, this episode offers valuable insights into the unseen battles veterans often face. From the impact of a service dog to the importance of self-awareness, this episode sheds light on the unseen challenges veterans face and the pathways to healing and resilience.

Key Points:

Transition from Military to Civilian Life:

The guest discusses his journey from serving in the Air Force to navigating life after leaving the military. He highlights the challenges of finding purpose and stability outside of the military environment.

Struggles with Mental Health:

The guest opens up about his experiences with PTSD and the difficulties he faced in accessing adequate support and resources from the VA.

Importance of Support Networks:

He emphasizes the role of supportive communities, such as fellow veterans and understanding colleagues, in aiding his journey towards healing and acceptance.

Overcoming Challenges:

Despite facing various setbacks and hurdles, the guest shares how he found resilience and strength through personal growth, seeking alternative therapies, and building a supportive network.

Accountability and Support:

The guest discusses how his wife’s accountability and support have helped him become more aware of others’ struggles and less uptight, leading to personal growth and improved relationships.

The Role of a Service Dog:

He shares how his service dog has significantly reduced his anxiety in public settings and helped him trust more in society, highlighting the transformative impact of animal companionship.

Connecting with Other Veterans:

Through retreats and interactions with fellow veterans, the guest emphasizes the importance of building connections, finding common ground, and relying on each other for support during challenging times.

Self-Awareness and Personal Growth:

Reflecting on his journey, he underscores the significance of self-awareness in building meaningful relationships, managing anxiety, and navigating life after military service.

Quotable Moments:

“I never realized how much of a game changer having a service dog is.”

“Being around fellow veterans who understand your experiences is invaluable.”

“It’s about finding common ground and coexisting, rather than competing or proving oneself.”

“You’ve got to learn to be comfortable with yourself and become self-aware before you can share that with anybody else.”

The post Discovering Accountability, Trust, and Self-Awareness appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

Welcome to “The Unseen Journey,” a podcast dedicated to supporting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. In this episode, Guy is joined by special guest Lottie, who shares her transformative journey and the tools she’s found helpful in overcoming her invisible wounds and injuries. This episode highlights the resilience of veterans and the valuable resources available to support their mental health and well-being beyond their military service.

Key Points:

Tools for Healing:

Lottie introduces her service dog and discusses how her companion, along with an alpha stim device, helped her cope with emotional challenges.

Veteran Retreats:

The podcast emphasizes the importance of veteran retreats in providing mental health support, therapy sessions, and holistic tools like alpha stim and heart math techniques.

Navigating Post-Military Life:

The conversation delves into Lottie’s journey of transitioning from military life, facing personal traumas, and finding courage to seek help and support.

Awareness of Trauma:

The conversation touches on the importance of raising awareness about military sexual trauma survivors and advocating for policies that support survivors and their families.

Navigating VA Benefits:

Lottie shares insights into the complexities of navigating the VA system, discussing challenges faced by veterans in accessing benefits and resources.

Empowerment Through Sharing: 

The podcast encourages veterans to share their experiences and seek community support, emphasizing the power of storytelling and peer connections in healing journeys.

Quotable Moments:

“Being your own advocate and speaking up for yourself is such a powerful thing to do.”

“Together, we can make the unseen journey a little easier for our veterans.”

Links Mentioned:

https://orwfoundation.org/

https://www.instagram.com/lottie.cooperaroundtheworld/

The post Trauma, Tools and Triumph for Veterans appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

Welcome to “The Unseen Journey,” a podcast dedicated to supporting Veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. In this episode, the hosts discuss their nonprofit, Reveille and Retreat, which focuses on providing healing and community support for women Veterans and military service members. They talk about their projects, such as intimate retreats and fundraising events, shedding light on the importance of inclusivity in mental health support. The hosts also share personal experiences and reflections, emphasizing the impact of their initiatives.

Key Points:

Reveille & Retreat Project Nonprofit:

– Introducing a nonprofit organization, emphasizing the importance of small, intimate retreats for women Veterans and military members to promote healing and a supportive community.

Inclusivity in Mental Health Support:

– The discussion highlights the unique approach of the vet centers, providing free counseling for Veterans without restrictions based on mental or physical disabilities. The hosts stress the importance of open support for anyone who has served.

Impactful Retreat Experience with ORWF:

– The hosts recount the empowering experiences during the ORWF retreat they attended, such as horse therapy, bonding activities, and learning sessions on topics like HeartMath and Alpha-Stim. They emphasize the positive impact on participants’ mental well-being.

Fundraising Initiatives:

– The hosts discuss their successful Women Veterans Day event, a major fundraiser. They share their plans for future fundraising efforts and the importance of financial support to sustain their programs.

Community Bonding:

– The hosts reflect on the sense of community and bonding that arises during the ORWF retreats, showcasing the positive effects on participants’ mental health and well-being.

Quotable Moments:

“Get out of my own way and get comfortable with being uncomfortable because that’s where the most growth comes from.” -Dakota Olsen

“Together, we can make the unseen journey a little easier for our Veterans.”

The post The Healing Journey For Women Veterans appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

In this episode of “The Unseen Journey,” the host welcomes Charles Wright, a Marine Corps Veteran who served from 1999 to 2003. Charles shares his experiences, including his role in the invasion of Iraq and his journey towards healing and advocacy for Veterans’ mental health. The conversation explores the challenges Veterans face, the impact of invisible wounds, and the transformative power of programs like Operation Red Wings Foundation.

Key Points:

Military Service

• Charles served as an 0341 81mm Mortarman during the Iraq invasion, participating in significant missions. 

 Invisible Wounds:

• The discussion touches upon the invisible wounds Veterans carry, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing mental health challenges.

Transition and Healing:

• Charles opens up about his post-military journey, including a ten-year period where his life seemed on pause. 
• The conversation highlights the struggles of transitioning to civilian life, the importance of mental health support, and how programs like Operation Red Wings Foundation provided a lifeline for Veterans.

Peer Support:

• The episode emphasizes the power of peer support, particularly in retreats organized by Operation Red Wings Foundation. 
• Charles and the hosts discuss the impact of sharing experiences with fellow Veterans, the role of peer support in healing, and the transformative effect it has on individuals seeking purpose and growth.

Discovering A New Purpose

• How helping Veterans heal is another way to receive your own healing in the Veteran journey.

Quotable Moments

“Your life is literally on pause until you get back home.”

“Going into an A.R.T. session, you need to sign up for a retreat and come through so you can experience this and feel this feeling.”

“We hope through Operation Red Wings Foundation to be a little piece of help for that – find your purpose, feel better, growth.”

Links Mentioned:

http://www.orwfoundation.org

The post Invisible Wounds and Rediscovering Purpose As a Veteran appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

In this episode, the hosts explore the experiences of Sharikea, a Marine Corps Veteran, and yoga instructor for ORW foundation. Join us as in exploring the theme of sisterhood within the military and how it extends into the veteran community. The conversation touches on the unique bonds formed in the military and the transition from service to civilian life. Sharieka shares insights into her Marine Corps journey, the unexpected discovery of yoga, and its transformative impact on her life.

Key Points:

Sisterhood in the Military vs. as a Veteran:

   – Discussion on the camaraderie within military branches.

   – Highlighting the shift from service-specific bonds to a united veteran community.

Yoga’s Role in Veteran Camaraderie:

   – Emphasis on the diverse branches coming together in the veterans’ space.

   – Recognition of similarities and shared experiences fostering a powerful sense of unity.

Marine Corps Experience:

   – Exploration of Sharieka’s motivation to join the Marine Corps.

   – Transition from military service to a fitness-focused lifestyle.

Yoga’s Unexpected Discovery:

   – Sharieka’s journey of stumbling upon yoga in the Marine Corps.

   – The profound impact of yoga, linking back to childhood and creating a desire for more.

Shifting Roles: Team Leader and Yogi:

   – Sharieka’s dual role as both a team leader and a yoga instructor.

   – Balancing leadership responsibilities and providing a calming influence during retreats.

Setting Boundaries for Wellness:

   – Importance of intentional actions, setting boundaries, and saying no.

   – The transformative power of taking time for oneself and avoiding overwhelm.

Quotable Moments:

”When you’re in the military, it’s your Army barracks, your Marine barracks. But when you come to the Veterans base, you get to see all the different branches. And there are differences, but there’s so many similarities and it’s just coming together from our bonds and from our service experience.”

“It’s magic. Everything you just said right now is like a big hug. Honestly. Like it’s stuff we all need to hear. It’s so true. You do better. Those boundaries, right? Those boundaries That hit me like a ton of bricks.”

“Take space in the moment. Well, the 100%, 100%, not only in the past of who we were, what we accomplished, what we didn’t accomplish, the trauma we experience, you know, the mistakes we made, the successes we had. Will it ever be like that again?”

Links Mentioned:

http://www.orwfoundation.org

The post Finding Sisterhood in the Military and Beyond appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

In this episode of “The Unseen Journey” podcast, our hosts have a discussion with guest Connie McNabb, a former senior military officer and veterinarian. The conversation explores Connie’s experiences in military and corporate settings, emphasizing the challenges of female leadership in male-dominated environments. Listen in as they get into moral and ethical considerations in leadership, touching on mental health challenges during the transition from active duty to civilian life. The episode underscores the importance of integrity and mental health support.

Key Points:

Diverse Backgrounds:

– Connie’s career spans both military service and corporate roles, showcasing her ability to lead in various environments.

Leadership Challenges:

– Exploring Connie’s experiences as one of the few female leaders in senior military positions and the unique challenges she faced.

Ethical Decision-Making:

– The  importance of maintaining integrity and moral values in leadership roles, drawing parallels between military and civilian contexts.

Moral Injury and Suicide Prevention:

– The conversation touches on the concept of moral injury in the military and its potential connection to mental health issues, including the high suicide rates among veterans.

Individual Performance:

– Emphasis is placed on evaluating leaders based on their performance rather than gender, highlighting the need for effective and ethical leadership.

Leadership Challenges:

– The effective and ineffective leaders in the military, emphasizing the importance of maintaining moral values and integrity in leadership roles.

Ethical Decision-Making:

– Connie shares her experiences of standing her ground and ensuring her moral values were not compromised, highlighting the need for ethical decision-making in military leadership.

Mental Health Dynamics:

– The unique mental health challenges faced by individuals transitioning from active duty to civilian life, particularly those who have experienced trauma or served in combat zones.

Military and Civilian Perspectives:

– The dynamics of military and civilian life, emphasizing the difficulty of transitioning from a war zone to family life and the importance of mental health support during this process.

Quotable Moments:

I’m doing the right things. I’m not compromising my morals, my values, my integrity.” – Guy @ 34:47 (Emphasizing the importance of standing firm in one’s moral principles in a leadership role. )

The post Navigating Leadership Challenges: From Military Service to Civilian Life appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.

The podcast episode features Rinell, a guest with a unique and inspiring journey. She shares her experiences, blending yoga and Krav Maga, as well as the transformative power of energy in self-defense.

Key Points:

– Rinell discusses the contrasting aspects of her life, where she could freely move between countries and states, yet had to conceal her love for yoga due to triggering her partner.

– The conversation goes into the separation between personal and professional identities, drawing parallels with a previous podcast episode featuring Tigers.

– Rinell shares her challenging beach yoga practices without a mat, connecting with the earth, and the therapeutic aspects of pushing herself in yoga poses.

– Rinell narrates her discovery of Krav Maga through social media, attending classes despite initial discomfort, and falling in love with the practice.

– The philosophy of using feet as a defense weapon and avoiding unnecessary fights is discussed in the context of Krav Maga.

– The conversation expands into projecting confidence and energy in self-defense, emphasizing the impact on others’ perceptions.

– The hosts, Guy and Ashleigh, express admiration for Nedra’s journey and discuss the unseen element of appearing fierce while being big-hearted.

   – Rinell beautifully combines the practices of yoga and Krav Maga, representing a balance between the peaceful and assertive aspects of her journey.

   – The hosts and Rinell explore the concept of appearing fierce while embodying compassion, drawing parallels with the protective nature of dogs.

Quotable Moments

“I think that energy, that energy would give off, right? And that feeling, that sense people get as they’re around you, right?”

“that weight that we all place on ourselves, that I am, I am I enough? Am I good enough?”

The post Harmony in Fierceness: The Unseen Journey of Yoga and Krav Maga appeared first on Operation Red Wings Foundation.