What happens when military service ends — but the real battles begin at home?

Let us know what you think!In this episode of Security Halt!, host Deny Caballero sits down with Merrill Slepica — C-130 Gunner, veteran entrepreneur, and founder of Hammer 41 Leatherworks — to unpack the raw realities of life after the military.From combat deployments to the quiet struggles of fatherhood, divorce, and mental health — Merrill shares his journey of resilience, recovery, and rediscovering purpose through creativity and community.Together, Deny and Merrill dive deep into:The mental health battles veterans face after serviceThe impact of military life on marriage, parenting, and family dynamicsFinancial literacy, divorce, and navigating alimonyThe healing power of entrepreneurship and creating with your handsThe importance of building community for veteran supportLessons learned in leadership, fatherhood, and personal growthThe journey of Hammer 41 Leatherworks — and how purpose is often found in the struggleThis episode is for every service member, veteran, or family member navigating the challenges of transition, healing, and building a new life after the uniform comes off.🎧 Listen now — and remember, healing happens in community.👉 Follow, Like, Share, and Subscribe to Security Halt! on:SpotifyYouTubeApple PodcastsJoin us — and help us keep veterans connected, growing, and thriving!BE A BRO! Support the show!!buymeacoffee.com/sechaltpodcasthttps://buymeacoffee.com/sechaltpodcast Looking for hand crafted, custom work, military memorabilia or need something laser engraved? Connect with my good friend Eric Gilgenast.Instagram: haus_gilgenast_woodworks_mainhttps://www.instagram.com/haus_gilgenast_woodworks_main/ Chapters00:00 Introduction and Community Connections03:04 Entrepreneurial Journeys and Healing05:49 The Reality of Military Life09:08 The Impact of Combat Experiences11:56 Navigating Family Dynamics During Deployment15:08 Fatherhood and Legacy18:01 The Importance of Adventure and Exploration25:50 The Journey of Becoming a Man28:32 Learning and Teaching: The Father-Son Dynamic30:53 Navigating Finances and Life Lessons33:02 Breaking the Cycle: Fatherhood and Presence36:35 The Struggles of Service Members in Family Dynamics42:56 Mental Health and Divorce: The Hidden Battles46:54 The Reality of Alimony and Financial Strain52:29 The Importance of Advocacy and Awareness55:54 Finding Your Place in the Military58:54 Reflections on Military Experiences01:01:28 The Reality of Military Recognition01:06:17 Building a Business: Hammer 41 Leatherworks01:10:09 Community and Support in Entrepreneurship Instagram: @securityhaltX: @SecurityHaltTik Tok: @security.halt.podLinkedIn: Deny Caballero Check out Hammer 41 Today!https://www.hammer41leatherworks.com/Support the showProduced by Security Halt Media