World Changing Veterans

On this episode of the World Changing Veterans Podcast, former Marine Jason Lewis opens up about how addiction nearly cost him everything. Jason shares what finally made sobriety stick after multiple attempts, and how learning to ask for help transformed not just his personal life but the way he leads and shows up for others.He talks about finding healing through ultra running and his community with the Houston Area Trail Runners, the power of “progress, not perfection,” and why he believes small acts of service create the biggest ripples.Jason also shares his beekeeping journey and how mentor Michael Kaltenbach of Soldiers of Wax helped him not only learn the craft, but reminded him what it looks like when someone gives their time freely and expects nothing in return.00:00 Welcome to the Podcast01:04 Meet Jason Lewis01:39 Marine Background03:01 Weight and Ultra Running05:27 Addiction Takes Hold08:47 Rock Bottom and Rehab11:45 Living Intentionally14:25 Community Through Running19:59 Leadership and Impact21:58 Beekeeping and Soldiers of Wax25:04 World Changing Defined25:51 Shoutouts and ClosingWays to connect:Jason Lewis:Instagram: runtrailsandrecoverWorld Changing Veterans: If you would like to join the community, share your story on the podcast, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] can also connect with us at After Action Collective or on social media: Instagram: wcveteransYouTube: WCVeteransLinkedIn: World Changing VeteransPodcast: World Changing Veterans Podcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

On this episode of World Changing Veterans podcast, we speak with Michael “Doc” Hernandez, a former Army combat medic who served with 1st Armored Division and later became a county Veteran Service Officer in Texas. Doc shares how although injuries and undiagnosed PTSD made his transition and medical retirement difficult, there were leaders around him that took the time to care and support his journey to healing. He also recounts advocating for his Vietnam-era grandfather and connecting with Hays County VSO Jude Prather, whose home visit ultimately helped secure his grandfather 100% benefits with nearly $53,000 in retroactive pay. Inspired, Doc pursued VSO work by utilizing the VA’s VR&E (Vocational Rehabilitation) program and is now the Director of Veteran Services for Williamson County. 00:00 Episode Setup01:16 Meet Doc02:36 Joining the Army04:08 Orders and Deployment05:48 Injuries and Medboard07:38 Rocky Transition10:32 Grandfather Benefits Win13:01 Becoming a VSO14:47 How Great VSOs Help18:11 Finding Benefits Help19:55 Mental Health Resources24:45 Education and Careers27:31 World Changing Veterans29:15 Contact and ClosingWays to connect:Williamson County Veteran Services: https://www.wilcotx.gov/785/Veteran-ServicesWorld Changing Veterans: If you would like to join the community, share your story on the podcast, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] You can also connect with us at afteractioncollective.com or on social media: Instagram: wcveteransYouTube: WCVeteransLinkedIn: World Changing Veterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this World Changing Veterans Podcast episode, we speak with Army Special Operations veteran and StoneWater Training founder Phil Kornachuk, who served in the Canadian Army and then spent 22 years in the U.S. Army as an infantry officer, Ranger, and Green Beret. Phil recounts a defining April 6 firefight in western Afghanistan supporting Marine Special Operations, where casualties, limited medevac, no visibility for air support, and a pinned-down QRF forced him to focus on “what’s the smallest thing I can do right now,” use his “smartbook,” gain distance, and call airstrikes to shift momentum and evacuate wounded. He discusses building trust with Afghan commandos through small moments, preparing for hard days on good days, separating role from identity for veterans, finding purpose through self-awareness, and how StoneWater helps leaders and teams align purpose, principles, practices, and performance.00:00 Welcome and Takeaways01:59 Meet Phil Kornachuk02:30 From Canada to Rangers05:38 Olympics and Allegiance06:26 Why the Military Fit08:18 Rangers to Green Berets09:14 April 6 Firefight Story21:15 Smartbook Under Stress22:16 Purpose Values Routine23:39 Values Under Pressure24:06 Trust With Afghan Partners25:32 Veteran Identity And Purpose28:51 Building Community Intentionally30:35 StoneWater Training Mission33:52 Finding Your Calling38:04 Battlefield Lessons For Leaders40:20 World Changing Veterans Defined43:31 Connect And ClosingWays to connect:Phil KornachuckWebsite: https://www.stonewatertraining.com/Facebook: StoneWater TrainingInstagram: stonewater_trainingLinkedIn: StoneWater Training World Changing Veterans: If you would like to share your story on the podcast, join the movement, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] and connect with with us on social media.LinkedIn: WorldChangingVeterans Instagram: wcveterans YouTube: WCVeterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this episode of World Changing Veterans, we speak with Chris Tighe, a former Navy officer and entrepreneur. With 23 years of service, including specialized roles such as a Chinese linguist and Information Warfare officer, Chris’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and intentional living. Discover his valuable insights on defining your identity, leveraging military experience, and jumping into opportunities. Plus, learn about his ventures with Elevation Construction and the Caffeinated Contractor, and how he continues to inspire others through mentorship and community engagement. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your takeaways in the comments!00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:27 Chris Tighe’s Military Background02:48 Transition to Civilian Life03:28 Starting a Business in Seattle04:36 Childhood and Influences07:56 Law Enforcement Career09:12 Advice for Veterans Transitioning10:31 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose14:46 Impact of Erwin McManus16:23 Elevation Construction and The Caffeinated Contractor16:54 Building a Virtual Team18:37 The Caffeinated Contractor Journey19:39 Living Intentionally21:38 The Importance of Community24:14 World Changing VeteransWays to connect:Chris TigheElevation ConstructionYouTube: The Caffeinated ContractorInstagram: elevationconstructionteamWorld Changing Veterans: If you would like to share your story on the podcast, join the movement, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] and connect with with us on Instagram: wcveterans & YouTube: WCVeterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Veterans and Canine Heroes: Chris Willingham’s Journey with U.S. War Dogs Association.In this episode of the World Changing Veterans Podcast, we speak with Chris Willingham, a 20-year Marine Corps veteran and president of U.S. War Dogs. Chris shares his unique journey from joining the Marine Corps in 1999 to serving as a military working dog handler and continuing his service through U.S. War Dogs. Chris discusses the rigorous selection process for dog handlers, the bond between handlers and their dogs, and how his passion led him to a lifelong commitment with U.S. War Dogs. The episode also covers U.S. War Dogs’ efforts in supporting active and retired military working dogs, including its RX program and emergency care efforts. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow us on social media, and share this episode with your Battle Buddies!Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:45 Meet Chris Willingham: Marine Corps Background02:57 Becoming a Canine Handler04:10 The Bond Between Handler and Canine06:52 Canine Roles in Combat13:58 U.S. War Dogs Association: Mission and Impact16:33 Supporting Retired Military Working Dogs26:35 Celebrating 25 Years of U.S. War Dogs31:16 Conclusion and How to Get InvolvedWays to connect:U.S. War Dogs Association: uswardogs.org World Changing Veterans: If you would like to share your story on the podcast, join the movement, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] and connect with with us on Instagram: wcveterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Welcome to the World Changing Veterans Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Michael Kaltenbach, a former Army tank operator who is now in the world of beekeeping and maple syrup making. Michael shares his journey from military service to civilian life, the challenges he faced during his transition, and how he found solace in beekeeping. He talks about his small business, Soldiers of Wax, which uses beekeeping to help other veteran beekeepers in his community. Michael also discusses the valuable resources provided by the Texas Veterans Commission and gives advice to veterans looking to start their own business. Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation with a true world-changing veteran. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow us on social media, and share this episode with your Battle Buddies!Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:52 Michael’s Military Background01:38 Transition to Civilian Life02:46 Discovering Beekeeping03:52 Challenges and Support Systems11:08 Beekeeping as Therapy17:57 Starting Soldiers of Wax18:52 Connecting with Local Veterans and Beekeeping19:37 The Therapeutic Power of Beekeeping20:57 Opening the Workshop to the Community21:51 Navigating Veteran Resources25:34 The Origin of Soldiers of Wax29:09 Advice for Veterans Starting a Business32:35 Closing Thoughts and Contact InformationWays to connect:Soldiers of Wax: soldiersofwax.com | Instagram: soldiers_of_waxIf you would like to share your story on the podcast, join the movement, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] and connect with with us on Instagram: wcveterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Welcome to the World Changing Veterans Podcast Season2! In this episode, co-hosts Dave and Will reflect on the impactful journey of Season 1 and share exciting news about the future of World Changing Veterans (WCV). They discuss their vision of transforming the podcast into a movement focused on helping veterans live intentionally and build a supportive community. Dave and Will also provide insights into what to expect in Season 2, including continuing interviews, introducing online meetups, and offering mini-challenges to encourage intentional living. Don’t miss Will’s inspiring stories of divine connections and the ongoing mission to make a positive impact in the veterans’ community. Subscribe and become part of the movement!Timestamps00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:33 Reflecting on Season One00:58 The Vision for WCV: Beyond a Podcast02:05 The Importance of Community03:51 Connecting and Growing the Movement08:20 Intentional Living and Mini Challenges14:23 Encouragement and Final ThoughtsWays to connectIf you would like to connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] or find us on social media. Instagram: wcveterans LinkedIn: World Changing Veterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Andy Min is a former Marine who shares his journey from his time at the Merchant Marine Academy to his decade-long service in the Marine Corps. Andy discusses his motivations for joining the military, his passion for the Marine Corps, and his experiences in service, including his transition to civilian life. He offers insights into the importance of resiliency, gratitude, and finding a mission-driven purpose post-service. The episode also highlights Andy's reflections on leadership and the significance of continuing to give back as a veteran.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:17 Andy's Early Life and Pre-Military Background01:43 Choosing the Marine Corps04:04 Life at the Merchant Marine Academy06:51 Joining the Marine Corps and Aviation07:56 Military Career Highlights12:00 Transition to Civilian Life14:41 Advice for Veterans18:11 Leadership and Resilience21:39 World Changing Veterans24:38 Shoutouts and ConclusionWays to connectIf you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Join us on the World Changing Veterans Podcast as we welcome back Ed Choi during PTSD Awareness Month. Ed shares his powerful story of battling PTSD, his work in the Birdwell Foundation, and his journey from PTSD to PTSG—Post-Traumatic Stress Growth. Discover how faith-based healing, community, and personal experiences can help veterans find hope and recovery. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation filled with insights on trauma, faith, and the power of Christ-centered therapy.0:00 Introduction and Welcome01:06 Ed Choi's Background and PTSD Journey01:53 Birdwell Foundation and Combat Trauma Healing06:26 The Role of Faith in Healing PTSD10:31 Theological Insights on Suffering and Healing18:03 Relating Jesus' Trauma to Veterans' Experiences20:49 Testimony of Healing and Faith21:12 Dealing with Residual PTSD21:47 The Four Fs of Trauma23:44 Gradual Weaning Off Medication24:57 Support Systems and Advice for Veterans26:43 Survivor's Guilt and Honoring Fallen Comrades31:24 Civilian Support and Understanding PTSD36:28 Closing Remarks and GratitudeWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Ed Choi or find out more about The Birdwell Foundation, you can email him at [email protected] or [email protected] you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] mentioned in this episode:The Combat Trauma Healing Manual: Christ-centered Solutions for Combat Trauma by: Chris Adsit (Author)When War Comes Home: Christ-centered Healing for Wives of Combat Veterans (Bridges to Healing Series) by: Military Ministry (Author), Chris Adsit (Author), Rev. Rahnella Adsit (Author), Marshele Carter Waddell (Author) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Royce Herring is a Coast Guard veteran and entrepreneur. In this episode, Royce openly discusses his struggles with PTSD, alcohol addiction, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of community, support, and having a mission, offering practical advice for veterans facing similar challenges. Royce's inspiring story highlights resilience, the value of supportive relationships, and the power of admitting when help is needed.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:31 Royce's Background and Coast Guard Service02:23 Family Military Heritage05:10 Joining the Coast Guard08:04 Coast Guard Experiences and Duties15:00 Transition to Civilian Life21:09 Dealing with PTSD24:32 The Immediate Aftermath of Injury25:16 Struggling with Feelings of Abandonment26:31 The Mental Toll of PTSD27:26 Turning to Substance Abuse28:27 A Friend's Intervention29:18 Recognizing the Problem30:41 Signs of PTSD and Addiction34:13 The Importance of Community Support37:57 Finding a New Mission41:51 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Royce Herring, you can email him at  [email protected] you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this episode of World Changing Veterans, co-hosts David and Will share the heart behind the movement. Will speaks about empowering veterans to live with intention, support one another, and create meaningful change in their communities. David reflects on how his faith and a life-changing dream inspired his commitment to serving veterans. Together, they explore the power of community, the importance of purpose, and how every veteran has the potential to make a lasting impact within their own sphere of influence.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to World Changing Veterans00:19 Meet the Hosts: David and Will00:52 The Inspiration Behind World Changing Veterans01:22 Living Intentionally as Veterans02:17 The Power of Community and Connection04:31 Addressing Challenges and Finding Purpose08:12 David's Journey and Vision20:07 Will's Coaching and Community Building26:13 Conclusion and Contact InformationWays to connectIf you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

Greg Storm is a retired Navy Reserve Commander and seasoned aviator. In this episode, Greg speaks candidly about the values instilled by his military service, the resilience gained through overcoming professional setbacks, and the significance of maintaining a supportive network, both professionally and personally. He also shares anecdotes about impactful mentors and the importance of receiving both positive and negative feedback for personal growth.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:56 Greg's Background and Navy Journey01:49 Influence of Greg's Father04:09 Lessons from the Military05:22 Transition to Civilian Life07:30 Pursuing a Career in Aviation10:56 Leadership in the Military and Aviation15:30 Reflecting on Leadership and Mentorship20:13 The Importance of Feedback20:57 Community and Faith23:07 Advice for Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life25:05 Defining a World Changing Veteran27:56 Inspirational Stories of Leadership31:58 Shoutouts and Final ThoughtsWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Greg Storm, you can email him at [email protected] you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this episode of the World Changing Veterans Podcast, we interview Ed Choi, a former Army Chaplain with a distinguished military career. Ed shares his insights on the importance of community, the transition from military to civilian life, and transforming PTSD into post-traumatic stress growth (PTSG). He reflects on his impactful ministry, his involvement with the Birdwell Foundation, and emphasizes the value of caring for those around you as a way to effect meaningful change. Ed also offers practical advice for veterans on transitioning effectively and finding their purpose post-service. Join us for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice for veterans and inspirational stories of resilience and growth.Timestamps00:00 Introduction: Making an Impact in Everyday Life02:26 Welcome to the World Changing Veterans Podcast02:29 Meet Ed Choi: From Army Chaplain to Distinguished Career03:13 Ed Choi's Journey: From High School to Seminary04:21 Joining the Army Chaplaincy05:17 Deployments and Experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan06:32 Understanding and Addressing PTSD09:23 The Importance of Community and Support16:06 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life21:31 Living Life Intentionally and Finding Balance23:08 Closing Thoughts and ShoutoutWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Ed Choi or find out more about The Birdwell Foundation, you can email him at [email protected]  or [email protected].  If you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this episode of World Changing Veterans, we sit down with Ken Sersun, a retired Air Force Colonel and current Chick-Fil-A Owner-Operator. Ken shares invaluable lessons learned during his 26-year Air Force career and how these skills prepared him for success in the civilian business world. Ken also talks about finding purpose through mentoring and helping people, both in his Air Force career and now at Chick-Fil-A. Join us as Ken shares practical advice on transitioning from military to civilian life, intentional living, and the importance of community.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Welcoming the Guest00:21 Ken's Military Background and Career01:59 Transition to Civilian Life and Chick-Fil-A02:27 Lessons from the Military Applied to Business03:58 Ken's Early Life and Influences05:08 Instilling Values and Purpose in Business07:05 The Importance of Community and Networking19:57 Briefing and Building Connections20:16 Veterans in the Civilian World20:51 Serving Others and Leadership21:37 Networking and Opportunities23:20 Intentional Living and Personal Growth24:39 Learning and Continuous Improvement26:21 Grit and Perseverance27:05 Opportunities and Leadership27:52 World Changing Veterans32:40 Faith and Calling33:39 Shout Outs and Staying Engaged34:34 Conclusion and Contact InformationWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Ken Sersun or find out more about his restaurant, you can email him at [email protected] or visit his website at https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/nm/central-eubankIf you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com

In this episode of World Changing Veterans, hosts David and Will speak with Althea Williams, founder of “She Vets It”, an online community for women veterans. Althea shares her experiences of joining the military at 39, her deployment to Afghanistan, and lessons learned while in the military. She discusses the importance of humility, resilience, and community, particularly how “She Vets It” aims to support women veterans in finding purpose and connection post-service. Althea also shares personal stories, including fostering unlikely friendships and navigating life with a traumatic brain injury.Timestamps00:00 Overcoming Challenges: A Veteran's Journey00:32 Introduction to World Changing Veterans01:07 Meet Althea Williams: Veteran and Founder of She Vets It01:55 Althea's Military Journey: From Recession to Enlistment05:45 Deployment Stories: Afghanistan and Beyond08:44 Building Bonds: Military Friendships and Community11:13 The Importance of Community After Service20:09 She Vets It: Empowering Women Veterans25:07 Challenges Faced by Women Veterans28:04 Finding Purpose and Moving Forward37:21 Closing Thoughts and EncouragementWays to connectIf you would like to connect with Althea Williams or find out more about She Vets It, you can email her at email [email protected] or visit her website at www.shevetsit.comIf you would like to share your story on the podcast or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com