Herostock Nation Podcast

YouTube Description (7 Lines)Join us on The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk as we sit down with Cook McKoy, USMC veteran, songwriter, guitarist, and frontman of Dinnerbell Road. Cook shares stories from his youth in a coal-mining community and the path that led him to enlist in the Marine Corps. We discuss boot camp, brotherhood, military service, and the life lessons he still carries today. He reflects on how music entered his life, learning guitar, and finding his voice as a songwriter. Cook also shares the inspiration behind his Marine Corps-inspired song, “Yellow Footprints.” From service to storytelling, this is an honest conversation about purpose, authenticity, and the power of music. Listen in and discover why real stories still matter. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. www.herostock.org

On this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, we sit down with six-time award-winning author William “Stevo” Stephens for a deeply personal conversation about storytelling, pain, resilience, reflection, and the experiences that shaped The Reflection Series, including The Broken Mirror.Throughout the episode, Stevo shares LIVE readings from his books while discussing the real-life moments behind the writing — from relationships and personal loss to mental health struggles, creativity, healing, and finding purpose through storytelling.The conversation explores: • the origins of The Broken Mirror • dark therapeutic poetry and emotional writing • writing as reflection and coping • the impact his books have had on readers • the power of honest storytelling • resilience, growth, and human connectionHosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. www.herostock.org

Singer-songwriter Chad Madsen joins us on The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk for a powerful conversation about music, faith, storytelling, family, and the winding road that led him from praise bands to becoming the frontman of Lost Keys. Raised in South Dakota and inspired by his mother’s songwriting, Chad opens up about discovering his voice later in life, writing songs rooted in real experiences, and the emotional connection between music and storytelling. We also talk about his family’s deep military ties, his support for veterans and HEROSTOCK, and the meaning behind his belief: “Love our warriors, even if you hate the war.” Plus, Chad performs three live acoustic songs during the episode. If you love Americana, folk music, honest songwriting, and meaningful conversations, this is an interview you won’t want to miss. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.Chad's Social Media Sites: www.facebook.com/lostkeysSD www.tiktok.com/@chad.madsen8

In this powerful episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, we sit down with Buddy Lee Dobberteen to explore a life shaped by service, struggle, and resilience. A U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, Buddy Lee opens up about his experiences in Iraq and the challenges of life after returning home, sharing how music became a lifeline—helping him process, heal, and rediscover purpose. This episode features three live performances, including the moving opening song “Light,” alongside a deep conversation about recovery, creativity, and finding new direction beyond the battlefield. From songwriting to storytelling, Buddy Lee’s journey is one of perseverance and transformation you won’t want to miss. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. Keep the conversation going—and keep honoring our heroes.#TheRoundtable #Herostock #VeteranStories #USMC #CombatVeteran #MusicHeals #Songwriting #PTSDRecovery #VeteranVoices #Podcast #LiveMusic #Resilience #MilitaryStories #HealingThroughMusic

What if you can hear everything… but still can’t understand what’s being said? In this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, we explore how PTSD and TBI affect how veterans process sound, focus, and communication. Our guests are therapists Danielle Vetro-Kalseth and Logan Walton who share how music and the arts are being used to support healing. We break down the difference between hearing and understanding — and why it impacts everyday life. From rhythm and repetition to creative expression, these tools help retrain the brain. We also look at how these programs are reaching more veterans and making a real-world impact. As songwriting musicians working with veterans, this conversation offers powerful insight into how music can make a difference. Keep the conversation going… and keep honoring our heroes. Hosts: Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones

In this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, we sit down with John Rickard of Combat Warriors Nebraska. We talk about what life really looks like after service—and the challenges many veterans face. Hear how outdoor experiences are helping rebuild connection, purpose, and brotherhood. From powerful stories in the field to moments of real healing, this conversation goes beyond the surface. It’s a reminder that service doesn’t end—it evolves in new and meaningful ways. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones🎧 Watch now—and keep the conversation going, and keep honoring our heroes.

What does it really take to chase a career in country music—and stay true to who you are along the way? In this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, we sit down with Nathan Andrewson of Nathan Wade Country for an honest, down-to-earth conversation about the journey behind the music. Nathan shares: The real-life experiences that shape his songwriting, the challenges and rewards of life on the road, what keeps him grounded as an artist, how music connects people across all walks of life. This conversation goes beyond country music—it’s about purpose, persistence, and the stories that define us. The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones highlights meaningful conversations with veterans, first responders, and those who support and inspire them through music, storytelling, and community. www.herostock.org/podcast #herostock #whereheroestalk #singersongwriter #veteranstories

In this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, hosts Tom Lamog and Matt Jones sit down with U.S. Marine Corps veteran, author, and speaker Ryan Rogers for a powerful conversation about service, leadership, and the journey beyond the battlefield.Ryan shares the experiences that shaped him—from growing up in southern Ohio to enlisting after the attacks of September 11, 2001. The discussion dives into his time as an infantry Squad Leader, his combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and the realities of leading Marines in some of the most intense environments of the war.Ryan also talks about writing his book Lions of Marjah, which began while he was deployed in Afghanistan, and the lessons he’s carried forward into advocacy, speaking, and helping others navigate their own challenges after military service.This is an honest conversation about duty, brotherhood, resilience, and finding purpose after war.Watch the full interview on the Herostock Nation Podcast Network at www.herostock.org.Like and subscribe to our podcast, streaming on Amazon, Spotify, Apple, and airing on Wreaths Across America Radio, as well as the iHeart, Audacy, and TuneIn apps.#Herostock #WhereHeroesTalk #VeteranStories #USMC #RyanRogers #LionsOfMarjah #VeteransVoices

In this heartfelt episode of ***The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk***, show hosts Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones sit down with singer-songwriter Briella Steiner and her father, USMC veteran and Herostock founder Jason Steiner for a powerful father-daughter conversation about service, music, and purpose. Briella shares the story behind her music and how growing up in a military family shaped her voice and mission, while Jason reflects on his Marine Corps service and the inspiration behind creating Herostock to honor veterans and strengthen the civilian-veteran connection. Together, they explore how faith, family, and music can bring healing and awareness to the challenges veterans face. It’s an inspiring look at legacy, patriotism, and how one family is using music and storytelling to serve those who served.🎶 #herostock #whereheroestalk #veteranstories

6 views Feb 23, 2026 Herostock Nation PodcastIn this powerful episode, we sit down with James C. Hastings, founder of Alaska’s Healing Hearts, for a raw and inspiring conversation about service, sacrifice, and the road to healing. James shares his military journey, the transition challenges so many veterans face, and how purpose-driven work in Alaska is helping restore hope and connection for those who have served. Hastings talks with show hosts Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones about resilience, community, faith, brotherhood, and the responsibility we carry to lift each other up long after the uniform comes off. This conversation isn’t just about surviving — it’s about rebuilding, leading, and serving again in a new way. 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations that honor service and strengthen community. 👍 Like, comment, and share to help us reach more heroes.

Welcome to The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk! In Episode 31, we sit down with singer-songwriter and festival organizer D.J. Bridwell to talk about the Trails of Tails Songwriter Festival in Deadwood, South Dakota. Hear how the festival supports independent artists and brings powerful storytelling through music to life. Subscribe for more inspiring interviews with musicians, veterans, and community leaders.

Nebraska country singer-songwriter Caleb Kenner joins The Roundtable Where Heroes Talk for an in-depth interview and live acoustic performances. In this episode, Caleb talks about his songwriting journey, small-town Nebraska roots, family influences, and the stories behind songs like “Back Then” and “Trouble Kids.” He shares how real life, fatherhood, and growing up rural shape his country music sound. Featuring honest conversation and original live music, this podcast episode is perfect for fans of independent country artists, singer-songwriters, and authentic Americana storytelling. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones for Herostock Nation Podcast. www.herostock.org

US Army veteran, author, and singer-songwriter Malachias Gaskin joins host Tom Lamog to share deeply personal stories from his book A Warrior’s Garden. Malachias reflects on growing up in Indiana and helping run his family’s business, the challenges he faced during enlistment, and the health struggles that reshaped his life. Through honest conversation, he explores how he found a path forward and developed healthy ways to cope and heal. Alongside his story, Malachias also shares three original songs, offering a powerful blend of conversation and music in this moving and inspiring episode.

Songwriter and Country Singer Anthony Segovia is our guest and talks openly about his upbringing by his Navy Corpsmen parents, his experiences in the US Marine Corps and his musical journey. Live performances include some of his original music. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. www.anthonysegovia.com

Greg M. Atkin is the inventor of the Strum-n-Comfort Crossover thumb pick system created for guitarists. Comes in Three models: Shark Tooth Traditional, Super Hybrid and Kodiak and promotes increased speed, accuracy and confidence when playing while producing less muscle fatigue. Followed by US Army Veteran Chris Parks, owner of Smokin' Red White and Blue featuring a variety of products that puts the taste of smoked food at your fingertips in a matter of seconds! Seasonings include Smoked Salt, and SSPG Smoked Salt Pepper Garlic. New products include Ghast Up Ghost, Jumpin' Jalapeno, and a mix of both in the same bottle. With special guest appearance by Anthony Lujan, Herostock Secretary. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.

Introducing Tim Meegan Jr., who talks candidly about his service in Ramadi Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and how the memories of that time went on to become the foundation for thought, feelings and emotion in creating his first album, "Cook County Country". The words and music helped him better communicate his wartime experiences to family and friends who were unaware of what Tim had seen and done there. Tim talks about the dream of continuing to write music, forming a band, recording in a major studio in Memphis, and touring all of which became reality. Tonight's episode includes heartfelt live performances of Tim's originals, including a new song, "Completely" which opens the show. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. Runtime 60 minutes.

On this episode of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk, it's our first show dedicated to gift buying, aka Herostocking Stuffers! Kevin Gouran of Doc Goodbeard gives us an introduction to his Beard Care products, including balms, shampoos, oils and accessories. Co-host Matthew Jones gives a lively demonstration on using each of the products, then shares his overall experience as Kevin describes product ingredients, application, customer favorites, and how to purchase. Whether you're new to beard care, or someone who is a seasoned groomer, Doc Goodbeard has something for everyone!

Texas Singer/Songwriter Jack Blaise is a veteran of the US Army and Marine Corps who went on to become a firefighter and paramedic with the Houston Fire Department for 10 years before a painful and debilitating physical condition that laid him flat on his back for 7 years. Jack goes on to share how he finally sought relief quite by coincidence, along with his personal stories about his service to our country, his thoughts about a variety of experiences, both high and low in the work he performed as an EMT and the changes in his perspective about it. Includes live acoustic performances of his original songs, and one of his favorite covers. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.

Featuring Thomas Walk, a US Army Veteran whose accomplishments include a Telly Award, six national awards for poetry and spoken word, seven published poetry collections and an Emmy nomination. Tommy's art seeks to open the conversation about the reality of mental health. Blending emotion and experience into creativity, the overall goal is an empathic connection to help others see they are not alone. Host Matthew Jones sits down for a conversation with Tommy, who shares his deeply personal stories along with a number of his powerful writings.

Hosts Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones sit down for a conversation with Robert Rask, a Utah-based master guitar luthier. Along with his personal stories of woodworking, music and his own life's journey, Robert talks about the intimate process of building instruments by hand using rare and exotic tone woods, and artifacts which bring deep meaning to the guitar owner he creates these for. Includes a behind the scenes look at his workshop, and some of the handcrafted instruments he's currently working on. www.raskguitars.com

Friend of Herostock Nation and US Marine Corps Veteran, Derek Thompson shares his experience with the world's tallest Rope Swing just outside of Moab Utah and performs one of his new originals. Then, US Army Veteran, VFW District Commander and songwriter David Welch talks about his style of songwriting, musical influences, ascending the ranks to leadership and performs some of his original songs acoustic and unplugged. Episode 21 brings some smiles, laughs and maybe even some tears. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. Check out more of our interviews at www.herostock.org/podcast and YouTube ‪@HEROSTOCKNATION‬.

Hosted by Tom Lamog featuring award winning songwriter and US Army Combat Veteran, Devon Stewart who speaks candidly about his life on the streets of Phoenix AZ, motivation to enlisting, military career, guitar and songwriting, flying drones for aerial photography, and his commitment to helping other veterans through music and the arts. Devon joined the U.S. Army Infantry in 2003, was deployed to Iraq 3 times, once to Afghanistan, and received a Purple Heart for injuries sustained from an IED. After leaving the service in 2015, Stewart started playing guitar while a patient at Walter Reed Medical Center. Since then, he’s gone on to win the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition three years in a row from 2022 through 24 for his original music. But the winning didn’t stop there. Devon placed 1st in his home state of Alaska in the 2025 competition and is awaiting the results from the national judging which will be announced in December. A devoted husband and father, Devon also takes pride in being able to share his music with other veterans through multiple outlets in his Alaskan community.

Matthew Jones hosts Ep 20 of The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk. Joining Matt are Karen Dunn - MSN, RN with Butler PA Health Care, and Creative Arts 2025 winners Thomas Walk - Poet, and Devon Stewart - Songwriter, both US Army Veterans for a casual conversation highlighting the VA Creative Arts Competition, a nationwide program that honors the artistic talents of veterans by featuring their original work in categories such as visual arts, creative writing, music, and more. Live poetry readings, musical performances and personal experiences that will move and inspire! Watch the video interview: https://youtu.be/RLv2m4kl1f4?si=udPBdMBPXJS9hNSU

Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. Featuring Mitch Jewell of Nebraska Small Town Heroes, a non-profit organization in Ashland NE that hosts sporting events like mud volleyball and the golf scramble which benefit the local First Responders including the Ashland Police and Ashland Fire departments. Our musical guest is Scotti Fraser, a US Marine Corps Veteran and a Texas guitarist, singer/songwriter who shares his lifelong journey in music, military experience, and his work with veterans that includes music and songwriting. Check out the video interview: www.herostock.org/podcast, and at my YouTube page: https://youtu.be/G-Xeqp0tnXQ?si=q0ILA4BuWMCGjiUB

Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones. Featuring USMC Veteran, Kevin Gouran of Doc Goodbeard mens care products where it's "all about the beard, man!". Kevin talks about the business partnership with his long time friend from high school, and the struggles in his decision to carry on after the passing of his good friend. Products include balms, oils, washes and he even gives a how-to demonstration on applying these products. www.docgoodbeard.comThis week's musical guest is independent artist, singer/songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jim Bachmann who is originally from Arizona, and now resides in Tulsa OK where he continues performing for big crowds around the country often with his Gramp's Guitar. Runtime: 60 minutes. www.jimbachmann.comAlso, the National VA Creative Arts Competition 2025 winners have been announced, and we've invited some of them to today's program including Devon Stewart (AK), Cook McKoy (PA), and my music mentor and friend, Karen Dunn to join us for a discussion on their experience. Watch the companion video for Ep 18 at https://youtu.be/yEin9yiJ7o8?si=2LaN_XOqKkPeL9BH, and at www.herostock.org/podcast.

Hosted by Jason Steiner, and introducing interim host Tom Lamog. Jason and Tom talk about the upcoming changes to the podcast, some of the programs being planned, musical guests that will appear on the show, stories about the Herostock experience, and how to contact Jason to get involved with the Ashland concert event. To be a guest, please reach out to Jason: [email protected]. Runtime 41 minutesWatch the companion video at https://youtu.be/ADn8vw-rJdU?si=cxImqGtibXa1B3Mx and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Conversation with Derek Thompson about the recent cancellation of the Stars and Stripes Music Fest, his career in music with songwriting and guitar, his experience with mixed martial arts both as a spectator and as a fighter, and later closes the show with an acoustic performance. Let's Go! Runtime: 30 minutes.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/UEdZChoA3fo?si=VpHmr17WIQnm5hNu and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Hosted by Tom Lamog, and introducing interim co-host, Matthew Jones. Conversation with Paul Kavulak, Nebraska Brewing Company about his service in the US Marine Corps, starting up the business with wife Kim, making connections in the community, becoming involved with brewing, music tastes and much more. Runtime 57 minutesWatch the companion video at https://youtu.be/5qXpy-bcJec?si=xYOKYSEt0IqbHlfQ and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Conversation with Joe Ortiz, the lead singer with the band, Lockjaw who introduces the band members, talks about shooting the video for their song "I Can't Escape", songwriting, going on the road, and performing at Herostock Ashland's Rock Night. Followed by conversation with songwriter and bandleader Tony Traynor of The Traynr Band who talks about the musicians in the band, being the band's songwriter, managing the band, gigs they've played with big name musicians. Runtime: 60 minutes.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/bGNFD1a12Xc?si=9f01w0roEWMSPbaF and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Interview with Country Singer/Songwriter, Elvie Shane whose song "My Boy" launched his music career after the song went platinum in sales. Shane talks about his first album Backslider which contained "My Boy", then his follow up Damascus which had its own set of unique challenges throughout the album's lifecycle. Followed by our interview with Chris Holt, lead singer and guitarist for South of Center who talks about how his band, mostly from the same neighborhood, came together to build their sound and go on to play many of the popular venues in the Omaha/Lincoln NE area. He also talks about playing sports, specifically in the NHL, recording with a metal band in Latvia, and his first guitar.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/4RxKZcHDqXI?si=ODly5Y1TqwTZVtp- and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

In this episode, we're joined by Kimberly Meyer, singer/songwriter, Army veteran, United Republic Recording artist who is also making a return to the Herostock stage after last year’s appearance in a duet, and at the Writers round at Ashland 2024. Kimberly is joined by her bandmate, violinist/fiddle player Howard. Our next guest is no stranger to Herostock Nation. Followed by the band, Die Tired who went on to put the ROCK in Herostock Ashland’s ROCK NIGHT along with a few others. The conversation includes the creative process in making music videos, writing songs, rehearsing and gigging along with stories from last year's Herostock.

Meet the band, Gallivant from Omaha NE. Sam, Joe and Dax talk about coming together in college, a musical journey that began at a young age, their latest release and video, " Life As It Goes", talk about their current tour, the experiences of being in a classic-rock driven power trio as singers, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists. We also ask them about their musical influences, and songs they never get tired of playing. Tom and Matt reminisce about previous episodes and interviews as this is their final episode of the Herostock Nation Podcast series. And it's been an enlightening and entertaining ride! Watch till the very end for what's next for them, and for the show!Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/W8mcekFjz5s?si=1ElIpYIM900Y8Uok and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Featuring one of our non-profit organizations that attended Herostock Ashland, Operation Freedom Exchange. Co-founders, William "Joe" Chabino, a US Navy Veteran and President and VP, Susan Parnell, one of the owners of Custom Auto in Sedalia MO share the stories behind the passion of their work, along with Joe's intriguing stories about his military service. Later in the hour, Shannon Book Music shares some of his Herostock Ashland experiences in leadership, music, and the military as our very first guest of Herostock's newly rebranded show: The Roundtable: Where Heroes Talk. RUNTIME: 60 minutes.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/JfZo3vslBvg?si=24lXq8kQtkwpCTDY and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Herostock's founder and president, Jason Steiner and VP Natasha Mondero join in a roundtable discussion about Herostock '25 highlights, favorite moments and plans for Herostock '26. Musical guest is US Army Veteran, Newnan GA Singer/Songwriter John Hensley who shares his personal stories from serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom, music and songwriting, and his newest album release, "Long Hard Road". Runtime: 60 minutes. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/KbzuCPuDHBg?si=u1ojlUXQfj4Sek69 and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Introducing US Army Veteran Chris Parks, a good friend of Herostock Secretary and all around great guy, Anthony Lujan. Their stories of serving together, lasting friendships, camaraderie, personal challenges, and mutual support may get eyes just a little salty, especially when they talk about Chris's business venture called SmokinRWB. ​Then it's a conversation with former US Navy Corpsman, Country songwriter/musician and philanthropist, Mike Ponder of Michael Ponder Music sharing his experiences in the military, healing through music and guitars, the Nashville music scene and the celebs he's worked with, and songwriting with friends whose names you'll be familiar with. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/hKM4T-QD9mg?si=RFeNIVf3AjTUYDgx and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.

Introducing Rick Yee, Owner/Founder of A Warrior's Way Mindset. Rick is an influential speaker, thought leader, and advocate for personal empowerment and authentic living and discusses his experiences at Herostock. He also shares his thoughts on work he does as a mental health coach and trainer, and the free resources he makes available online. Later, co-host Matthew Jones shares one of his original songs that earned him a 1st Place medal in the Omaha VA Creative Arts Competition. Hosted by Tom Lamog and Matthew Jones.​ Runtime 56 minutes.Watch the companion video at https://youtu.be/09VHgtynTso?si=GahVsulioclCyi2H and also at our website: www.herostock.org/podcast.