Veteran Lifestyle Magazine™

In this episode of the Veteran Lifestyle Magazine Podcast, hosts Annette Whittenberger and Joe Palacios sit down with Dave Rossberg, a former U.S. Navy nuclear submarine officer who transitioned into a successful career as a general contractor and business advisor. Dave shares his journey from structured military service to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, highlighting how leadership, mindset, and community form the foundation of success. Through candid reflections, he explains how the lessons learned in high-pressure military environments—teamwork, accountability, and adaptability—translate seamlessly into building and running a business.Dave’s path shows the value of adaptability—shifting from Navy service to entrepreneurship by finding passion in helping others succeed.Military discipline provided the structure, but true fulfillment came from supporting tradespeople and business owners.Effective leadership isn’t about control—it’s about empowering people and holding them accountable.Just as operating a nuclear submarine requires every individual to contribute, running a business requires relationship-based leadership.Success depends on cultivating a growth mindset—viewing challenges as opportunities rather than barriers.Both Dave and Joe emphasized that striving for continuous improvement matters more than knowing everything.“Finding your tribe” is essential for both veterans and entrepreneurs.Events like Veterans Edge demonstrate the importance of collaboration, encouragement, and belonging in business and personal growth.Dave’s parting wisdom captures the essence of entrepreneurship: align your work with what truly energizes you.Passion, discipline, and community create the bridge from military service to entrepreneurial success🔑 Key Takeaways1. Transition with Purpose2. Leadership as Empowerment3. Mindset is Everything4. Community is a Force Multiplier5. Do What Sets Your Soul on FireConnect with Dave: https://daverossberg.focalpointcoaching.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrossberg/https://www.facebook.com/rossberg.davehttps://www.instagram.com/dave.rossberg/

In a world where unanswered questions often accompany stories of those who have vanished, Melissa Twardowski stands as a beacon of perseverance and hope. For 35 long years, Melissa has been fighting to keep the memory and story of her sister, Deanna Maryfield, alive—a battle as much about seeking justice as it is about honoring Deanna’s life.Watch our interview with Melissa as we dive into what happened to Deanna. Go to www.findingdeanna.com to stay updated on the search efforts.

Susan Haring is a woman of deep faith and unwavering dedication to serving others. While raising her children, Susan also loved volunteering to help   those in need. She supported women at a local pregnancy center, advocated for vulnerable youth as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (C.A.S.A.), and mentored high school students. By God’s grace, she has devoted her life to encouraging and uplifting those in need.Susan also served on a Women’s Ministry Board at her church, a further reflection of her passion for fostering community and faith.Writing My Faithful Savior is another extension of that calling-a powerful testimony of God’s miraculous hand in her son’s life and His boundless love for all His children. Susan prays that this true story will inspire and strengthen the faith of those who read it.When she's not writing or serving others, Susan appreciates the simple joys of life-sipping coffee with friends, offering a listening ear to those who are hurting, snuggling with her grandchildren, and baking their often requested chocolate cake.One childhood joy Susan has never outgrown is searching for seashell treasures on every beach she visits! Soaking up sunny days, reading inspirational true stories and vacationing with family are also delightful to her soul.Married over 40 years, she loves quiet evenings and dinners with her husband.Follow her: www.authorsusanharing.comPurchase her book: https://a.co/d/1LrjCOC

Cowgirl-turned-nomadic-Navy-spouse-turned-author, Julie Tully writes about life, culture, and the places they intersect. Her own life reads like a novel—from her roots in rural Northern California to her time as a globehopping expat. She is equally at home on the back of a horse rounding up cattle as she is at a formal diplomatic dinner. Julie’s memoir, Dispatches From The Cowgirl: Through The Looking Glass With A Navy Diplomat’s Wife, was published in 2022 and details the years she and her family lived and worked in Africa. Dispatches was the 2023 winner of the prestigious Independent Book Publishers Association Benjamin Franklin Award Gold Medal and the Military Writers Society of America Silver Medal. Beyond her memoir, Julie’s writing has been featured in Legacy Magazine, Your Teen for Parents, Military Spouse Magazine, and is used by the Department of Defense for training the next generation of the military’s diplomats. A sought-after speaker, Julie uses her unlikely and unique journey to highlight the importance of storytelling in our society. Originally from El Dorado, California, Julie holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University Chico. Over the years she has worn many different hats to include university researcher, marketing and public relations executive, communications specialist, and ghostwriter. Julie has been recognized by ambassadors and senior military officials for her work in the diplomatic world. In 2017, she was named a Kentucky Colonel by the governor of Kentucky on behalf of her work in Djibouti with our military and the Kentucky National Guard. After spending almost two decades overseas, Julie now resides in Monterey, California with her husband, John, son, Quinn, and two rambunctious cats. Follow Julie at: @dispatchesfromthecowgirland at https://julietullywriter.com/

Chris Kruger grew up just outside Spokane, Washington, and joined the Army before turning 21, driven by a sense of purpose and a thirst for challenge. Over the next 22 years, he forged a diverse and demanding military career—starting as an infantryman and eventually becoming a Blackhawk maintenance test pilot. His journey took him from Basic Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he completed an impressive lineup of elite training programs, including Amphibious Reconnaissance School, Ranger School, HALO and HALO Jumpmaster, and Flight School, among others. Along the way, he earned the Expert and Combat Infantryman Badges, a Bronze Star, a Meritorious Service Medal, and several other honors. Chris deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Far East, spending more than five and a half years overseas—experiences that deeply shaped his outlook on leadership, resilience, and life. After retiring, he turned to writing as a way to unpack and give meaning to those intense years. What began as personal reflection quickly became a mission to reach others walking similar paths. Today, Chris lives in Huntsville, Alabama, with his wife Genevieve and their two daughters, Charlize and Isabelle—writing from a place of survival, strength, and connection. Together, Chris and Genevieve are active in their local church and committed to encouraging others to overcome life’s hardships, expanding their reach through writing and a forthcoming podcast aimed at inspiring healing, faith, and perseverance.https://www.facebook.com/chris.kruger.927758http://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-kruger-780406205https://www.instagram.com/chris.kruger.927758/#Read full article at: https://veteranlifestylemagazine.com/2025/07/09/embracing-transformation-a-conversation-on-leadership-service-and-storytelling-with-christopher-krueger/

Trish Leto is a U.S. Navy veteran,seasoned business coach, andfaith-driven firecracker who’s beenhelping aspiring entrepreneursmonetize their skill sets for over adecade. She’s co-founded a nationalbusiness conference, coached thousandsinto launching side hustles, and evenpaused her business post-pandemic tofocus on her sobriety, life’schallenges,and recalibrate with integrity.Now, she’s back—more focused, bolder,and more authentic than ever—havinggrown her TikTok following to over 16,000in under four months by showing up raw,real, and ready to serve. Two years sober, a single mom, and a GenX content creatorwho balances a full-time job with livestreaming, Trish teaches her audience how toturn life experience into income—with scripture in one hand and strategy in theother.In her spare time, Trish volunteers as a Subject Matter Expert for The Rosie Network’sWarrior CoHort, helping aspiring Veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs launchtheir businesses online, from ideation to implementation.Trish was also named one of Marquis Who’s Who of outstanding entrepreneurs in2024.If you’re tired of playing small and ready to build a business that honors yourstory, Trish is the coach who’ll meet you where you’re at and show you how toPress Live With PurposeTM.https://www.facebook.com/trish.leto/https://www.tiktok.com/@trishizzlefoshizzle

Brunella Costagliola is a ghostwriter, editor, award-winning author, journalist, and translator. Founder and owner of The Military Editor® Agency, LLC, a boutique ghostwriting and editing agency that caters to military authors and military-related manuscripts, Brunella has worked with some of the most prestigious literary agencies and publishing companies in the country, such as William Morris Endeavor and HarperCollins. Her clients have become award-winning, best-selling, and critically acclaimed authors. Her keen eye for details, her ability to recognize a story worth writing about, along with her constant quest for a perfectly polished manuscript, make her a highly reliable and competent writer and editor. Brunella has two master's degrees and a Certificate in Editing from Graham School at the University of Chicago, where she studied the Chicago Manual of Style from the same institution that created it. A proud military spouse, she lives in Florida with her husband, their two children, and three dogs. https://themilitaryeditor.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/themilitaryeditoragency/posts/?feedView=allhttps://www.facebook.com/themilitaryeditoragency/

Scott Neil is the President of American Freedom Distillery and a co-founder of Horse Soldier Bourbon, a premium American whiskey brand built on legendary service, resilience, and brotherhood. Founded in 2016 by a group of friends and retired Green Berets—including Scott—Horse Soldier Bourbon tells the powerful story of some of the first U.S. Special Forces teams deployed to Afghanistan following the attacks of 9/11. This elite unit, later nicknamed the “Horse Soldiers,” is immortalized in the America’s Response Monument at Ground Zero and continues to inspire the spirit behind every bottle.Under Scott’s leadership, Horse Soldier Bourbon has become one of the most compelling brands in the spirits industry—celebrated not only for its award-winning whiskey, but for the authenticity and heroism behind its founding. Each bottle is forged in tradition—some even molded in glass made from steel recovered from the World Trade Center—and honors the values of service, sacrifice, and American craftsmanship. The brand’s future distillery, Horse Soldier Farms, currently under development in Somerset, Kentucky, will serve as a world-class destination for bourbon lovers, patriots, and adventurers alike.A retired U.S. Army Special Forces combat veteran, Scott was among the first to lead direct action and counterterrorism operations during the early days of the Global War on Terror. After recovering from combat injuries, he became a leading advocate for veteran reintegration, entrepreneurship, and wellness. He has played a key role in raising millions for veteran causes, launching programs through the Green Beret Foundation, and advancing policies to support veteran-owned businesses.Scott is a sought-after speaker and national media contributor, with appearances in outlets such as Fox News, Bloomberg Businessweek, the Los Angeles Times, and Newsmax. He also works closely with the George W. Bush Veterans Initiative and serves as an advisor to the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Through Horse Soldier Bourbon, Scott continues to share a powerful story of courage, camaraderie, and the enduring American spirit—with every pour.https://www.facebook.com/horsesoldierbourbonhttps://www.instagram.com/horsesoldierbourbon/https://www.youtube.com/@HorseSoldierBourbonhttps://horsesoldierbourbon.com/

In a recent episode of the Veteran Lifestyle Magazine podcast, Ann Claire Stapleton, an award-winning journalist turned psychedelic therapy advocate, shared her journey and insights into the transformative potential of Ibogaine and psychedelic therapies. This episode dives into the intersection of trauma, healing, and advocacy, offering a compelling narrative for veterans, military spouses, and individuals affected by trauma and substance use.Ann Claire Stapleton is not only a military spouse but also the daughter of a parent recovering from substance abuse. Her journey from CNN’s Senior International Producer and Editor to becoming a leading voice in psychedelic therapy advocacy has been transformative. "I think over time that constant exposure to trauma, it builds up and it slowly changes how you perceive the world," she shared. This profound realization led her to explore alternative therapeutic options for trauma and substance use disorder.Ibogaine, a psychoactive compound derived from African plant Iboga, has shown promise in treating opioid withdrawal and PTSD among veterans. Stapleton became aware of its potential while still working at CNN, exploring its effects during her days off. She described the influence of Ibogaine, saying, "I couldn't believe that something this powerful even existed and that I never heard about before."With a notable career at CNN, Stapleton made a bold decision to leave and pursue advocacy full time. "It just felt like all the signs were pointing that, that the time was now to be able to make a big jump and try and use what skills that I have as a storyteller," she explained. This shift was driven by personal experiences and the desire to make a wider impact beyond her journalism career.Stapleton stressed the importance of addressing trauma not by comparing its severity but by acknowledging its impact: "Trauma is subjective...let's just work on fixing it." Her advocacy shines a light on the need for more research and access to psychedelic therapies, emphasizing their potential to heal not just veterans but also the broader population affected by addiction and trauma.Stapleton, along with other advocates, aims to make Ibogaine treatment accessible in the United States. "I originally jumped into the sphere not knowing really anything about psychedelics...I just had no knowledge of that. It wasn't part of my world at all," she admitted. Her organization, Americans for Ibogaine, focuses on educating lawmakers and the public about the medical benefits of Ibogaine and other psychedelics, emphasizing its role in re-opening dormant parts of the brain damaged by trauma.Throughout the podcast, Stapleton highlighted the significance of storytelling in advocacy. By sharing personal testimony and scientific studies, she aims to change hearts and minds. "When you can change hearts and minds, then you can change policy," she stated. Her work includes producing videos and participating in documentaries to spread awareness about the potential of psychedelic therapy.A Call to ActionThe conversation with Ann Claire Stapleton highlights the urgent need for awareness and action in the realm of psychedelic therapy. Her insights and experiences underscore the potential of these therapies to bring healing and hope to countless individuals. She encourages others to join the movement, stating, "Every conversation we have, we might only reach a couple dozen people, but those couple dozen people know another couple dozen who know another couple dozen and it just spreads like wildfire."For more information and to follow Ann Claire Stapleton’s journey, you can access her work through Veteran Lifestyle Magazine and various social media platforms. Her advocacy continues to pave a way for significant changes in how trauma and addiction are understood and treated in our society.Follow AnnClaire: LinkedIn ProfileSubstack / Instagram / X

Meet Two Legends of Service and Resilience 🇺🇸 Joe Hildebrand and Mike “Mikey” Sauers are retired Navy SEALs whose courage on and off the battlefield continues to inspire. With over 39 years of combined military service, they’ve led from the front in some of the most intense combat zones, including Ramadi, Iraq. Joe, now a writer and mental health advocate, is sharing his recovery journey through his upcoming memoir Alone in the Platoon Space. Mikey, founder of Forged® and co-founder of The Murph Challenge®, has raised over $2.25 million for veteran causes through service-driven initiatives.These warriors are redefining purpose after service—through storytelling, leadership, advocacy, and impact. 🇺🇸🔥 Follow their powerful stories as featured in Veteran Lifestyle Magazine.#VeteranVoices #NavySEAL #MurphChallenge #MilitaryLeadership #VeteranLifestyleMagazine #ServiceAfterService #MentalHealthMatters #Forged #ALoneInThePlatoonSpace

Bridging the Gap: Conversations That Matter on the Veteran Lifestyle Magazine PodcastA Mission Beyond WordsAnnette Whittenberger opens the podcast with an introduction to Veteran Lifestyle Magazine and the mission that fuels the show. This endeavor goes beyond a typical podcast; it's a movement designed to celebrate the resilience of those who have served and bridge the gap between military and civilian life. By covering topics such as mental health, career transitions, and advocacy, the podcast aims to inform, inspire, and empower its audience.Meet Alexander Randazzo: Telling Unfiltered StoriesAnnette excitedly introduces Alexander Randazzo, emphasizing his extensive background and contributions. Alexander humbly shares his path, detailing his experiences as a writer, actor, and co-founder of Military Movies—a production company dedicated to creating true, authentic stories about military heroes and their families. His passion for storytelling was evident from a young age, when he ambitiously adapted and produced the film “Dragons in Our Midst” at just 11 years old.Authenticity in Storytelling: Lessons from the FrontlinesAlexander stresses the importance of working on projects that honor the military experience without exploiting it for dramatization. He cautions against industry patterns of using serious issues like PTSD merely as plot devices, advocating instead for authentic representation and education through film.Alexander’s Personal Connection: Military Roots in StorytellingDrawing from his upbringing as the son of a West Point graduate and now a dedicated storyteller, Alexander reflects on how his family’s military background influences his approach to crafting military-themed narratives. He shares the story behind "Lonesome Soldier," a film tackling PTSD, and the impact it has had in helping veterans feel seen and supported.Core Values and Perseverance: Navigating the IndustryAlexander attributes his success to core values instilled by his father—integrity, serving, discipline, and generosity—and shares a personal story that highlights the importance of these principles. Furthermore, he outlines critical factors for success, such as hard work, internal conviction, faith, self-worth, and supportive networks, offering valuable advice for veterans pursuing diverse paths beyond active duty.Inviting Veterans into the Industry: Opportunities and CollaborationAs Alexander continues his work with Military Movies, he extends an invitation to veterans and active-duty personnel interested in the film industry, highlighting opportunities for involvement through internships, consulting, and employment across various levels of production. His commitment to creating an inclusive environment is evident as he seeks to collaborate with veterans, leveraging their unique experiences to enrich storytelling and bridge cultural gaps.Moving Forward TogetherJoin us as we move forward together, embracing the conversations that matter and advancing our mission to bridge the gap between military and civilian life. Follow Veteran Lifestyle Magazine on all platforms to stay updated on the latest stories and initiatives.Follow Alexander on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexanderrandazzo/ and on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/alex.randazzo.752Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-randazzo-a758b0140/Watch the full trailer on Youtube at: https://youtu.be/xowCBBfkgtc

Revving Up with Purpose: The Inspiring Journey of Operation MotorSportsIn the thrilling world of racing, where precision and adrenaline intersect, a unique program is driving change and offering new beginnings to military veterans. Operation Motor Sports is a standout initiative that leverages the high-energy environment of motorsports as a powerful recovery tool for veterans transitioning to civilian life. This blog post delves into the inspiring stories of those who found a new mission beyond military service through this innovative program.The Beginning of a New ChapterFor many veterans, transitioning from military to civilian life can be daunting. The structured and high-tempo environment they once thrived in is no longer their daily reality. Such was the case for Aaron Falk, an Army veteran who, after a long and fulfilling career, found himself searching for purpose post-military. It was at Road Atlanta, amidst the roaring engines and bustling pit crews, that Aaron discovered Operation Motor Sports. His journey with the program began there, and quickly, he found himself preparing tires and setting up equipment, becoming an indispensable part of a new team.Building Bridges Between BackgroundsOperation Motor Sports creates pathways for veterans to seamlessly integrate their skills into racing teams. Veterans like Bangor, a US Army veteran, brought invaluable experience and adaptability to his new racing family. His story is one of seamless transition and impactful contributions to his team, exemplifying the mutual benefits of this collaboration.A Race Beyond Just CompetitionOne of the program's remarkable initiatives is the Veterans Race for Remembrance. Scheduled over Veterans Day weekend at Virginia International Raceway, this event presents a unique challenge, split into two six-hour segments over the course of Saturday and Sunday. The decision to divide the race underscores a commitment not only to safety but also to inclusivity, considering drivers' varying levels of experience.Personal Stories, Shared RoadsWhat makes Operation Motor Sports particularly compelling are the personal transformations it fosters. Navy veteran Whitney, a program alumnus, found mentorship and eventual employment opportunities through his involvement. His story mirrors many others who have found new life directions and career opportunities through participating in this vibrant community.From the Military to Motorsport: The Road AheadFor former A-10 crew chief in the Air Force, the program rekindled a long-lost passion for high-tempo environments akin to his military days. Transitioning to civilian life wasn’t easy, and while engineering provided a good career, it lacked the excitement and camaraderie he longed for. Operation Motor Sports not only reignited his passion for racing but also bestowed a sense of belonging and community he had missed.The Path ForwardThrough Operation Motor Sports, veterans are not only finding healing but also rediscovering a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and excitement. The program is a testament to the power of community and shared passion, offering veterans a chance to not just reinvent themselves, but thrive.From Daytona to Virginia International Raceway, Operation Motor Sports is paving new paths for veterans, carving out a unique niche in the motorsport world. By embracing the high-octane environment of racing, veterans are finding a renewed sense of purpose, one lap at a time. The journey continues as this program inspires and empowers those who dedicated their youthful vigor to serving their country, now racing toward new life opportunities.Follow their journey at: https://operationmotorsport.org/

Welcome back to another exciting feature from Veteran Lives, where we bring you stories of perseverance, transformation, and triumph. Today, we delve into the fascinating journey of DJ Cassandra, a remarkable individual who seamlessly blends her passion for music with advocacy and healing. Hosted by Annette Wittenberger, this captivating podcast episode explores how creativity transcends boundaries and touches lives.Bridging Communities Through MusicDJ Cassandra, the celebrated DJ, composer, and music educator, captivates audiences with her innovative soundscapes. She's not just a DJ; she's a curator of sound energy and an award-winning artist who's performed at iconic venues, from Austin City Limits to the Grammy Awards. Her collaborations with renowned brands like Google, Gucci, and Apple TV further amplify her reach and impact.A Path Less Taken: Becoming a DJFor Cassandra, the decision to pursue DJing was rooted in her exposure to diverse genres and her desire to introduce this richness into mainstream sets. Despite a limited presence of female DJs in her city, she envisioned a space where women could thrive in this dynamic industry. Her journey showcases the importance of representation and the power of music as a unifying force.Balancing Acts: From DJing to ComposingNavigating a multifaceted career, Cassandra strives to balance her roles as a DJ, composer, educator, and producer. She regularly reassesses her goals to ensure alignment with her artistic vision. This introspection is crucial, particularly when engaged with high-profile clients and evolving musical landscapes.Mental Health and Music: A Healing ConnectionBeyond her musical achievements, DJ Cassandra is a staunch advocate for mental health awareness. Through her involvement in Biomedical Music Solutions, she supports initiatives using music for neurological rehabilitation. This underscores a profound belief: music's therapeutic power can reshape lives and promote healing.Elevating Voices: Advocating for Music EducationCassandra's passion for music education stems from personal experiences that shaped her journey. Inspired by mentors and her father's musical talents, she recognizes the transformative role of education in nurturing creativity. In her role as an elected governor on the Texas chapter of the Recording Academy, Cassandra actively advocates for accessible mental health resources and equitable opportunities for emerging musicians.Where to Find DJ CassandraExcited to witness DJ Cassandra in action? Follow her adventurous engagements and updates on Instagram at DJ Cassandra. Her electric performances and innovative projects will leave you inspired and uplifted.DJ Cassandra highlights the profound impact of music on mental health and community building. Her endeavors in reshaping the narrative around mental health, coupled with her musical prowess, create a resonant call for empathy and shared growth. Through conversations like those featured in Veteran Lives, we amplify stories that bridge gaps and foster a vibrant, supportive world. Whether you're a veteran, a music enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, DJ Cassandra's journey exemplifies the resilience and creativity that can empower us all.Join us as we continue to champion voices and stories that matter in our Veteran Lifestyle Magazine Podcast, where your story matters.Watch the full video interview on Youtube: https://youtu.be/HuO0FGdehJE

Dr. Anthony Randall is a transformative leader and the founder and president of Vanguard XXI, a leadership development and executive coaching company. His rich background in teaching, training, and coaching over 17,000 professionals across various sectors includes the US Army, Special Operations, Major League Baseball, Fortune 100 and 500 companies, and higher education. He is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and proprietor of three ICF coaching courses. He is the author of three books including his international award winning and best-selling book, Practicing Excellence: Restoring Civility, Faith, and Trusted Leadership to the Public Square.A United States Military Academy, West Point graduate, he is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, Chaplain and Ranger. He has six combat tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. He’s served as a chaplain in special operations, law enforcement, and Major League Baseball. His Army career included developing comprehensive soldier fitness and special operations human performance programs. As an Army Ethicist, he transformed ethics and character development curriculum impacting 30,000 Officers and NCOs. He holds two master’s degrees in divinity and theology, and a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership. A lifelong martial artist, he holds Japanese Jujitsu and Tae Kwon Do Black Belts, and a Brazilian Jujitsu Brown Belt.Anthony serves in Rotary, Scouting, and on the board of directors for Fellowship of Christian Athletes Wrestling Georgia, and Skull Games, an Anti-Human Trafficking Organization. Married for 27 years, Anthony and Jeanine have three children. Originally from Arvada, Colorado, Columbus, GA is now home. Full Bio from Website www.vanguardxxi.com/our-team

From the Battlefield to the Boardroom: Alan Davis on Resilience, Reinvention, and Rising to RunAt Veteran Lifestyle Magazine, we’re dedicated to sharing the raw, real, and remarkable journeys of veterans who continue to serve their communities long after hanging up the uniform. Our recent livestream podcast was no exception, as we welcomed a guest whose story is both powerful and profoundly human: Alan Davis.From the rugged terrains of Afghanistan to the creative chaos of digital entrepreneurship, Alan’s path is one of transformation, perseverance, and purpose. And it’s one we’re honored to share.Alan Davis didn’t initially see himself in the Army. Like many young adults facing limited opportunities, he enlisted more out of necessity than passion. But what he found in the military—camaraderie, structure, and a deep sense of purpose—laid a foundation that would shape the rest of his life.His deployment to Afghanistan was a turning point. The challenges were intense, but they forged resilience and adaptability that became invaluable in the civilian world. After his service, Alan found himself in an unexpected role in the funeral and cemetery industry. Though impactful, it wasn’t the mission he was meant for.Alan’s search for fulfillment eventually led him to a new battlefield—entrepreneurship.Combining his creative instincts with a desire to help others, Alan co-founded Faction Media, a digital marketing agency focused on supporting veteran-owned businesses. Through Faction Media, Alan works to empower entrepreneurs with the tools and strategies they need to thrive in the modern marketplace.What sets his business apart isn’t just technical know-how—it’s authenticity. Alan brings the same unfiltered honesty that served him in uniform to his work, helping clients cut through the noise and connect meaningfully with their audiences.Alan is quick to acknowledge that transition from military life isn’t easy. It’s a process—one that requires self-awareness, patience, and above all, a willingness to explore."Find your mission," he advises. "It might not be obvious at first, but it’s out there."One of his most powerful messages is about the healing that comes through helping others. By shifting focus outward—serving, supporting, and uplifting—veterans can find a renewed sense of purpose and peace.Never one to stop at a single endeavor, Alan launched the Rise to Run podcast, a platform for stories of grit, growth, and triumph. The podcast isn’t just about veterans—it’s about anyone who’s faced adversity and found the strength to rise.Each episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that our greatest challenges can become our greatest sources of strength.Alan Davis reminds us that life after the military isn’t the end of service—it’s just the beginning of a new kind. Through his work, his voice, and his unwavering commitment to authenticity, Alan is building bridges between military and civilian worlds and inspiring others to do the same.Whether you're a veteran charting your own post-service path or a civilian seeking motivation, Alan’s journey offers a powerful message: Resilience is the real mission.Want to follow Alan’s journey?Instagram: @FactionMedia.ioPodcast: Rise to Run (available on major platforms)LinkedIn: Alan DavisA Military Path UnexpectedDiscovering a New Mission: Digital MarketingWisdom for Fellow VeteransIntroducing: Rise to Run PodcastConclusion: A Story That InspiresStay ConnectedBe sure to catch future episodes of Rise to Run and follow Veteran Lifestyle Magazine for more inspiring stories from those who serve, lead, and overcome.

An R&B group working to spread love, positivity, and joy through music, Smooth Nature embodies all R&B, with sounds of soul, rock, blues, jazz, funk, and hip-hop, giving you every piece of what R&B truly is. Smooth Nature uses music to motivate, inspire, and help people heal and grow!Follow them here: EPK LINK:https://www.thesmoothnature.com/epkMUSIC LINK:https://linktr.ee/smoothnature?ltsid=d55881a1-b298-4803-a6df-d023592fcbe2&utm_source=linktree_profile_shareInstagram link:https://www.instagram.com/thesmoothnature/?hl=en

Mark Clayton, born on July 2, 1982, is a former standout football player from Oklahoma University, where he excelled as a 2-time 1st Team All-American and served as team captain during his junior and senior years. He was part of several championship-winning teams, including the 2000 National Championship squad. Clayton’s professional career began when the Baltimore Ravens selected him in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Despite early injuries in his rookie season, he made a strong impression, finishing with 44 receptions for 471 yards and 2 touchdowns, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Over the years, he experienced both successes and setbacks. A highlight came in 2008 when he had five receptions for 164 yards and a 70-yard touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, 2009 saw a dip in production as the Ravens’ offense shifted focus. In 2010, he was traded to the St. Louis Rams, but his time there was cut short by a severe knee injury. After retiring from football in May 2013, Clayton transitioned into business. He founded LIVV Headphones, a company specializing in high-quality audio products, and launched a Christian-based clothing line, MyChristianT (MCT). These ventures highlight his shift from sports to entrepreneurship and innovation. Now, Mark balances his business pursuits with family life. He is married to Elizabeth Clayton, a 10-year Navy combat veteran, and together they have four children: Ayden, Jada, Ava, and Grayson. His journey from NFL athlete to entrepreneur reflects his adaptability and drive, all while nurturing a growing family. www.livvaudio.com

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Murff, U.S. Army veteran and founder of Grill Your Ass Off, a veteran-owned company spicing up the BBQ world. Jason shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, the mission behind his brand, and his advice for fellow veterans pursuing their dreams. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and, of course, amazing barbecue! 🍖🔥 #VeteranSuccess #GrillYourAssOff Follow Jason at www.grillyourassoff.com

Ray Palousek is a pianist, singer, songwriter & music educator from Holland, TX with over 15 years of performance experience. Palousek holds a Bachelors degree in Jazz Performance from Middle Tennessee State University. Palousek is a former cruise ship musician of 5 years, performing in 48 countries & territories. Palousek now resides in TX, where he plays all genres of music all across the state. Palousek is the resident pianist at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse in Austin, TX. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raypalousek?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/raypalousek?igsh=MTFrb2wxanpnY2x2cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Tiktok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ray_palousek?_t=8paIgaDGUgg&_r=1

Ray Palousek is a pianist, singer, songwriter & music educator from Holland, TX with over 15 years of performance experience. Palousek holds a Bachelors degree in Jazz Performance from Middle Tennessee State University. Palousek is a former cruise ship musician of 5 years, performing in 48 countries & territories. Palousek now resides in TX, where he plays all genres of music all across the state. Palousek is the resident pianist at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse in Austin, TX. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raypalousek?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/raypalousek?igsh=MTFrb2wxanpnY2x2cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Tiktok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ray_palousek?_t=8paIgaDGUgg&_r=1

Shahnaz is a Navy veteran who served from December 1995 to 2012. She was the second woman in her family to join the military. She completed several deployments, including a Westpac in 1996, Fallujah, Iraq in 2004 (where she was injured in combat), Kuwait in 2007, and a Med Cruise in 2010. She was medically retired due to her combat injuries in 2012, but she did not let limitations stop her. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Regent University in 2015 and a Master of Industrial Organizational Psychology from Liberty University in 2018. She also competed in the Invictus Games in 2016, representing Team USA in rowing, field, and powerlifting. She is a proud wife and mother of three children, two of whom are serving in the Navy and one who is active in JROTC. She is passionate about horses and their healing nature, which inspired her to found Mended Sparrow, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides equine assisted services to service members, veterans, first responders, and similarly situated individuals and their families. Her favorite quote by Bryan Jarrett, “When your past, your pain and your passion overlap, you find the sweet spot of your purpose in life.” Find more at: https://mendedsparrow.org/

Meet Tammie Curiel, a vibrant children's author from Los Angeles with a heart full of stories and a home bustling with the purrs of rescued cats.After many fulfilling years as a stay-at-home mom, Tammie decided it was time to embrace her passion for writing, diving into the world of children's books with boundless enthusiasm.Tammie's journey as a writer began early, with a deep love for literature, English, and especially poetry. Her latest book draws from her personal adoption journey and the unique experiences of other adoptees she has met. She writes with the hope of bringing peace of mind to children, encouraging them to ask questions and embrace their identities with confidence. Her stories remind readers that every child's journey is special and worth celebrating.

Kristen is a twenty-four-year old singer and songwriter based out of Belton, Texas. She grew up just north of Dallas in the town of Flower Mound. She's been singing her whole life, but decided to pick up a guitar and learn to song write at the beginning of 2023. "I love sharing my perception of the world around me and hope something is felt from my art." Her main genre is Indie/Pop, but her music also draws from other styles because of certain influences. Here's some other artists that have inspired her: Jessie Reyez, Olivia O'Brien, Billie Eilish, and Demi Lovato. Follow Kristen- www.kristentaylor.com