Veterans’ Voices with VTC
by veteransvoices-scv
This podcast features powerful, real-life stories from veterans overcoming crisis, homelessness, and personal challenges. Each episode highlights the vital resources, tools, and support systems that helped them heal, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into their communities. Produced by the Veterans Transition Center of California (VTC), our mission is to empower veterans to move from crisis to self-sufficiency and inspire others along the way.
Episodes
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One Résumé at a Time: Empowering Veterans Through Employment
In this episode, we sit down with Amanda, our Job Developer, to talk about the hands-on work she does to help Veterans prepare for and secure meaningful employment. From résumé building and job searching to applications and interview preparation, Amanda shares how she supports Veterans every step...
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An Update with Denise and Craig
In this episode, we sit down with Denise Hernandez, Director of our TR program, to share exciting updates and talk more about the newest initiative, ARG. Denise talks about how these programs continue to grow and support Veterans on their journey. Joining her is Craig Linfoot, who talks more…
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Staying Busy, Staying Focused: Saul’s Story
In this episode, we sit down with Saul, an LTORR Veteran who joined VTC in December 2025 and is already making strides toward a brighter future. Saul shares what it was like on his very first day after being picked up by VTC. A dedicated and hardworking individual, Saul talks about staying...
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Inside ARG: A Deeper Dive Into VTC’s New Program
In this episode, we take a deeper dive into VTC’s new Adult Reentry Grant (ARG) program by hearing from both sides of the experience. We’re joined by Juliana, an ARG case manager, who shares insight into the purpose of the program and the population it serves. We’re also joined by Roman Deleon…
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The Power of Being in Right Place at the Right Time
What happens when two paths cross at just the right moment? GPD Case Manager Christopher Sakamoto and Navy Veteran Chris Murphy share their stories of finding purpose through unexpected opportunities. Christopher talks about leaving behind a career in video editing after discovering his passion…
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Inside VTC’s Pantry with Amos Johnson
In this episode, we sit down with Amos, a Veteran whose journey with the Veterans Transition Center has come full circle. From his time in the military to navigating life after service, Amos found support through VTC. After graduating, he stepped into a leadership role and now runs VTC’s pantry…
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Giving with Purpose: CEO Kurt Schake on Impact and Year-End Support
Join us for an inspiring conversation with VTC CEO Kurt Schake as he shares highlights from his nine years as CEO, the accomplishments he’s most proud of, and the progress VTC has made in serving Veterans. We also discuss the importance of end-of-year giving, the different ways to support our...
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Mission-Driven Finance: Inside VTC with CFO Evan Heath and GPD’s Bill Gilreath
In this episode, we sit down with VTC’s CFO, Evan Heath, and GPD Case Manager, Bill Gilreath, for an inside look at what keeps our mission moving forward. Evan breaks down how the finance department operates behind the scenes and explains how community donations fill critical gaps. Supporting...
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Hope Restored: Stories of Change at VTC
In this episode, we talk with Steve, an LTORR case manager, and Gerald, a Marine veteran, about resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of VTC’s programs. Steve shares his experience working with Veterans and how it differs from the other clients he has worked with. Gerald opens up…
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Behind the Grants: Thomas Lamphere is Back
In this follow-up conversation, we welcome Tom back to the podcast to dive deeper into his transformation, from military service, to VTC program graduate, to his impactful role as our grant writer. Tom reflects on the growth he’s experienced since his first appearance and the challenges and...
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Where Policy Meets Practice
In this episode, we sit down with two incredible members of the VTC team: Will Myers, our Shelter Supervisor who oversees intake for Veterans entering the GPD program, and Tara Gibson, our dedicated HR Manager who helped build our HR department from the ground up. Will shares insight into what…
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Voices of Impact: Dan and Kristen Scott
In this heartfelt episode, we reconnect with Dan and Kristen Scott, two former VTC team members whose compassion and dedication left a lasting mark on the Veterans they served. Joining us over the phone, Dan and Kristen share their experiences working at VTC, the moments that shaped their time...
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A Life Restored, Part 2: Continuing Ronnie’s Journey
In this follow up episode, Ronnie Randon opens up about life after renewal and how he continues to stay grounded in his purpose. Joined again by his case manager, Korina McKinley, they reflect on the progress he’s made since beginning the LTORR program.
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A Life Restored: Ronnie’s Story of Renewal
This episode explores the transformative journey of Ronnie, a Veteran in our LTORR program, as he reflects on the power of forgiveness and the process of rebuilding his life. His case manager, Korina McKinley, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the LTORR department, sharing the what drives her...
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Inside VTC: Bill, Kaleb & Randy Share Their Stories
In this episode, we sit down with three members of the VTC family. Kaleb, our Operations Director, shares what it takes to maintain our housing units and create safe spaces for Veterans. Bill Kelly, a Veteran and VTC Board Member, reflects on his time in the military and why he chose to join our...
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Supporting Veterans Through Food & Art
Join us in this inspiring episode as Veteran Kenneth Critchfield opens up about his time at VTC and the work he now does in our pantry, helping fellow Veterans access meals and support. We’re also joined by Ryan, a Veteran on our operations team, and Regina Palmer, who shares insights about VTC’s...
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Dreams in Motion: Tom’s Bucket List Adventures
In this episode, we sit down with Veteran Tom Hawkins and his case manager, Delinda Watkins. Tom reflects on his time at the Veterans Transition Center, the joy of moving into his new home, and the dreams he’s excited to cross off his bucket list. Delinda shares her personal “why” for serving...
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The Many Roles of Marcus Blevins
In this episode, we talk with Marcus Blevins, an LTORR Veteran and dedicated member of the VTC team. Marcus shares his journey from military service to his role at VTC, where he wears many hats to support Veterans and their families.
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Veteran and VTC Board Member Tony Tollner
In this episode, we sit down with Veteran and VTC board member, Tony Tollner. Tony shares his experiences serving in the military, his path into entrepreneurship, and the values that continue to guide him today. He also opens up about what drew him to VTC and why supporting fellow Veterans is so...
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A Woman in Uniform: Yvonne’s Story of Service
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Aleen, case manager at Lightfighter Village, and resident Yvonne. Yvonne opens up about her experience as a woman in the military, the challenges she faced during and after service, and her journey of overcoming PTSD. Together, Aleen and Yvonne share...
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More Than a Program: Denise, Craig, and a Life Saving Kidney
This week, we sit down with Craig Linfoot, VTC resident and front desk receptionist, alongside Denise Hernandez, Director of our LTORR program. Denise shares what it’s like leading the program and the many ways her team works daily to support our Veterans. Craig opens up about his military…
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A Conversation with Francisco and Steve Part 2: Building Futures Together
Francisco takes us deeper into his military journey, revealing how the discipline, hardships, and brotherhood of service have shaped not only who he is, but how he leads as GPD Director. His story is one of carrying the values of the battlefield into the heart of community service. Steve shares…
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From Homeless to Community: Inside the GPD Program
GPD Director Francisco Narewski shares goes in depth about his military background and his roles as department director at VTC. Joining him is our Veteran resident Steve Hawthorne, as he opens up about life after service, his experience with homelessness, and how VTC helped him rebuild. Twice. A...
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A look at Lightfighter Village: From Case Management to Community
In this episode, we talk with Bobby Merritt, a longtime case manager at the Veterans Transition Center and current liaison for Lightfighter Village, and Gary Roidt, a U.S. Veteran and VTC graduate who now lives in the supportive housing community. Bobby and Gary share their personal experiences,...
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The Determination of Richard Hibbard
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Richard Hibbard, a Veteran and former VTC resident whose journey is nothing short of remarkable. Richard opens up about life before, during, and after his time at VTC, reflecting on the people, moments, and ideas that helped shape his path forward. From...
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Changing the Narrative: The Thomas Lamphere Story
In this powerful episode of Veteran Voices with VTC, our CEO Kurt Schake opens with a moving overview of the Veterans Transition Center and the life changing work being done to support veterans in crisis. He shares a heartfelt story of one Veteran’s transformation, setting the stage for an...
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A Second Chance: Timothy's Journey
Today on the podcast, we’re joined by Timothy Jackson, a former VTC resident, and Adriana Kosinski, one of our dedicated case managers who supported Timothy throughout his journey. Together, they share an inspiring story of transformation. Timothy opens up about his past and the path that led him...
About this show
This podcast features powerful, real-life stories from veterans overcoming crisis, homelessness, and personal challenges. Each episode highlights the vital resources, tools, and support systems that helped them heal, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into their communities. Produced by the Veterans Transition Center of California (VTC), our mission is to empower veterans to move from crisis to self-sufficiency and inspire others along the way.
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