DVNF Operation Mission Possible (OMP) Podcast

What does healing look like for a combat veteran after war? In this episode of Operation Mission Possible, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret.) and CEO of Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF), sits down with Forged Valor co-founders Col. John Mayer (Ret.) and Mo Smith. They discuss how Forged Valor grew out of work with catastrophically wounded Marines at Walter Reed, and why horses, ranch work, and meaningful purpose can play such a powerful role in recovery. John reflects on the early days of bringing wounded veterans into the arena and onto working ranches, while Mo shares how he was called in to help shape what would become Forged Valor. This conversation explores resilience, service, identity, and the importance of giving veterans more than treatment alone, giving them something noble to be part of again. Learn more about Forged Valor: https://www.forgedvalor.org/ Access more episodes of the Operation Mission Possible (OMP) Podcast: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast #ForgedValor #DVNF #Veterans #OperationMissionPossible #Podcast #HorseTherapy #MarineCorps #MentalHealth #WoundedWarriors #Resiliency

For many veterans and first responders, the toughest battles begin after the uniform comes off. In a world shaped by algorithms and outrage, it can feel impossible to quiet the mind, to find your footing, to breathe. In this candid conversation, Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) and CEO of DVNF, dig into the pull of social media, the spiral of stress, and practical ways to reset. They introduce DVNF’s free Mission Possible course and share simple mind-body tools that help you think more clearly, sleep better, and step back into the flow. Together, they explore the “performance zone,” how to start a digital detox, and core skills like Three Keys to Relaxation, Weeding Your Mental Garden, and The Observer. Joe also speaks directly to veterans navigating real-world pressure, and how DVNF programs work to restore stability and hope. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, or someone who wants to be part of the solution, this episode offers grounded steps you can use today. Apply to be a guest or check out our past sessions: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast/ Start the free Mission Possible course here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/

For Army veteran Eric D. Thomas, the fight didn’t end after deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. After returning home, he encountered the same frustrating gaps in care that leave so many veterans and first responders behind. Instead of turning away, he stepped in—and founded the CJ3 Foundation to stand in that gap. In this powerful episode, Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) & CEO of DVNF speak with Eric about his military career, the pain that led to CJ3’s creation, and the mission that now fuels his life: serving those who’ve served us. Together, they explore CJ3’s four pillars—advocacy, mental wellness, service dogs, and outdoor retreats—and the deep personal commitment behind them. Eric also opens up about his own journey through trauma and healing, and what keeps him going when the weight of it all feels too heavy. Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or someone who believes in the power of second chances and service-driven purpose, this conversation will move you—and may just help someone you care about. 🔗 Learn more about the CJ3 Foundation: https://cj3foundation.org 🎙 Access more episodes of the Mission Possible Podcast: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast #CJ3Foundation #Veterans #MissionPossiblePodcast #DVNF #CombatVeterans #ServiceDogs #FirstResponders #VeteranSupport #HealingThroughService

For Navy veteran Shannon Hough, the hardest battles weren’t fought overseas—they came after her military service. After enduring Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and years of silence, Shannon found healing through purpose. She now leads Shield of Sisters, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women veterans navigate the long, often unseen road to recovery. In this moving conversation, Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) & CEO for the DVNF speak with Shannon about her personal story—how trauma shaped her early years, how it nearly cost her everything, and how she ultimately found strength in service to others. They explore MST’s far-reaching impact, the difficulty of speaking up, and how visualization, peer connection, and purpose-driven living (ikigai) can help survivors rebuild their lives. Shannon also shares how Shield of Sisters is offering more than support—it’s offering a path forward. Whether you’re a survivor, a veteran, a supporter, or someone searching for tools to grow through hardship, this episode offers real stories, real resources, and real hope. Chapters & Topics: 00:00 – Welcome & Shannon’s Early Military Journey 08:30 – MST, Coercion, and the Burden of Silence 20:15 – The Long-Term Impact and Unseen Struggles 31:10 – Rock Bottom Moments and Turning Points 45:15 – Letting Go of Trauma: The Bowling Ball Metaphor 52:20 – Programs at Shield of Sisters: Retreats, Peer Support, Advocacy 58:10 – A Message for Survivors: “You Can Go Now”

What happens when the mission ends? For Jessy Lakin, a veteran and founder of Alaska Warrior Partnership, leaving the military meant stepping into a whole new set of challenges. In this conversation, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and Dr. Marty Rossman talk with Jessy about the realities of veteran transition, the struggles many face with PTSD, career changes, and personal identity after service. Jessy shares his own story—highlighting the importance of mental wellness, connection, and finding a new mission in civilian life. Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is a must-watch. Chapters & Topics: 00:00 - Introduction and Jessy's Deployment 16:02 - Jessy's Harrowing Experience in Iraq 24:01 - Jessy's Traumatic Experience and Recovery 28:25 - Jessy's Combat Experience and Mental Health 35:28 - Jessy's Military Experiences and Relationship Struggles 40:47 - Jessy's Journey With Combat and Betrayal 47:08 - Jessy's Struggles and Frustrating Assistance 52:19 - Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Self-Doubt 59:11 - Addressing Invisible Wounds and PTSD 1:03:48 - Veterans Support and Collaboration Discussed If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Reach out. There is help, and there is hope. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible course for free access to future live sessions and resources for wellness and empowerment: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ #Veterans #Healing #Military#Civilian #Transition #PTSD #Purpose #AlaskaWarriorPartnership

In this podcast session, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) and Dr. Marty Rossman are joined by the extraordinary Dr. Rory Cooper — military veteran, inventor, and pioneering force in rehabilitation engineering. From his journey of resilience after a life-changing spinal cord injury to his groundbreaking work in assistive technology, Dr. Cooper shares powerful insights on adaptability, purpose, and using adversity as fuel for change. Discover how Dr. Cooper's work with the Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) has revolutionized wheelchair design, robotic assistance, and accessibility innovations. Gain perspective on his advocacy for inclusive air travel through the Air Carrier Access Act and hear his advice on overcoming life's toughest challenges. This episode is a must-watch for veterans, innovators, and anyone seeking inspiration to turn obstacles into opportunities. Watch now and learn how resilience, the power of community, and a shift in thinking from being "better than" others to "better for" them can create lasting impact. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible course for free access to future live sessions and resources for wellness and empowerment: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ #Veterans #Resiliency #empowerment #innovation #USA #MissionPossible #HERL #RoryCooper

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Dr. Frank Bourke in an empowering discussion. In this Mission Possible live session, we break down the complexities of PTSD, focusing on its impact on veterans and the latest insights in treatment, including a look into Dr. Bourke's groundbreaking RTM Protocol. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #rtm #protocol #FrankBourke

Transitioning out of military service brings unique challenges, but learning how to reframe worries can make all the difference. In this episode of the Mission Possible Podcast, we dive into strategies to help veterans, first responders, and their families manage the emotional and mental health hurdles that come with this life shift. From PTSD to anxiety, we discuss ways to approach these challenges head-on and find new purpose after service. Join DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) and Dr. Marty Rossman for inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical advice for veterans and anyone navigating major life transitions. Discover how to change your perspective, build resilience, and create a meaningful path forward—whether you're a veteran, a supporter, or someone facing change. Whether you're a veteran, know someone who is, or want to better understand the challenges of the military-to-civilian transition, this episode is packed with practical tips and support. Your journey doesn't end after service—it transforms into a new mission. Let’s make it possible together! 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. #Veterans #MilitaryService #MentalHealth #MissionPossible #SuicidePrevention #MilitaryToCivilian #PTSD #VeteransDay #LifeAfterService #Wellbeing #VeteransStories

In this powerful live session, we sit down with DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), Marty Rossman, and Emanuel "Manny" Simmons, a Retired Master Sergeant (USMC) who dedicated 27 years of service to the Marine Corps. Manny shares his inspiring journey, surviving the tragic 1983 Beirut bombing, battling severe injuries, including a collapsed lung and temporary paralysis, and overcoming the psychological challenges that followed. His story highlights the resilience, mental toughness, and support needed for veterans transitioning to civilian life. We dive into crucial topics such as military service, mental health, PTSD, and the importance of suicide prevention among veterans. This conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans and first responders, offering hope and guidance for those navigating life after service. Whether you're a veteran, in the process of transitioning out of the military, or a supporter of our armed forces, this discussion is packed with insights to help ease the journey to civilian life. Watch now to hear a true story of survival, strength, and perseverance. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #Veterans #PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #wellbeing #resilience #overcomingadversity #mentalhealth

Montel Williams, a renowned television host and military veteran, shares his personal journey of transitioning from military service to civilian life. Join us as Montel, Dr. Marty Rossman, and DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) discuss the challenges faced by service members during their transition and offer invaluable insights on navigating this critical phase. They address common obstacles and provides practical advice for veterans looking to make a successful shift into the civilian workforce. Whether you're a veteran yourself or someone interested in understanding the military transition process, this interview is a MUST WATCH! 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #MontelWilliams #overcoming #adversity #truestory #militarytransition #MissionPossible

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Josh Jabin from The Travis Manion Foundation. Join us for a powerful conversation about building resilience among veterans and their transition from military to civilian life. Two veterans and a mental health specialist will share their experiences, insights, and suggestions for making real change. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #building #resilience #veterans #MissionPossible #TravisManionFoundation #mentalhealth

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Nick Howland from The Fire Watch. We will discuss the challenges of helping veterans who are mentally ill and/or suicidal. Talk about the importance of offering help to veterans who may not realize they need it. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #ptsd #suicidepreventionawareness #Discussed #Podcast #MissionPossible #TheFireWatch

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Modesto "Mo" De La O in an empowering discussion. Delve into the profound journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and resilience-building as they explore crucial topics such as overcoming regrets, battling self-judgment, and mastering the art of forgiveness. Discover actionable strategies for military transition, post-service personal growth, and holistic health practices tailored for veterans. Tune in for transformative discussions on transitioning strategies, mindset mastery, and the power of holistic approaches in fostering veterans' resilience and flourishing. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #foxhole #MentalHealth #Forgiveness #resilience #regrets

Welcome to the Veterans Podcast 'Mission Possible'- a space dedicated to sharing and empowering the voices of those who have served. In each episode, we dive deep into the stories of military veterans who have transitioned to civilian life, facing and overcoming various life challenges along the way. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/ 📌 Join the Conversation: We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community. Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health. #PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible