Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow

Ken Heitger is an Army veteran who's now on a new mission — becoming a school teacher. After years of military service, he's traded camouflage for college textbooks and is preparing to make a lasting impact in the classroom.We talk about the transition from military to student life, the challenges of starting over, and how military discipline and leadership are shaping his approach to education. It’s an honest, inspiring look at life after service and the powerful calling to teach the next generation.Whether you're a veteran, an educator, or someone in the middle of a big life shift, this story will remind you that the mission doesn't end, it evolves.Learn more about Robert Morris University's Center for Veterans and Military Families: https://www.rmu.edu/about/militaryLearn more about the Restore 22 events and fundraisers: https://restore22.org/eventsOriginal Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by ⁠Roger Cegelski⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com/

In this powerful and deeply personal documentary, acclaimed storyteller Makia Harper explores the resilience of the human spirit.Better than Before: Journey to Now features the stories of three veterans as they discuss the social, emotional, physical, and cultural effects of the Vietnam war. The film explores ways in which they heal from trauma and overcome adversity and discrimination as they establish a new sense of self at a pivotal moment in their lives.Better than Before is more than a film; it’s a tribute to Makia's uncle, a proud military veteran whose unwavering optimism and strength carried him through a diagnosis of multi-myeloma as a direct result to his exposure to the hazardous herbicide Agent Orange.Makia knows that storytelling has a healing power that is immeasurable and has been used to transmute trauma. The personal stories of veterans aim to provide an individual and collective catharsis, while providing hope and inspiration through adversity. This film also aims to preserve the history of one of the world’s most controversial wars.Most of this project has been self-financed, and the film is 75-80 percent complete. Makia needs your help to finish the film. Contributions of all sizes will play an important role in bringing this  film to the screen. Donate to support Better than Before: Journey to Now.Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠⁠⁠⁠

We sit down with historian and author Robert B. O’Connor to discuss his powerful book Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge. Blending meticulous research with vivid storytelling, O’Connor brings to life the little-known story of a group of entertainers turned soldiers who risked their lives to lift spirits on the front lines during one of the most brutal battles of WWII.Learn more at jeepshowbook.com.Read the Warco's Summary.Purchase Jeep Show on Amazon or BookShop.org.$1 from every book sold benefits Shields and Stripes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a to-tier rehabilitation program for military veterans and first responders.Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Carissa Pierson never served in the military, but she has plenty of experience with PTSD. The daughter of a Vietnam veteran and trauma nurse, Carissa understands how the wounds of war deeply impact those who serve and everyone around them. As the CEO of Deathstalker Productions, she has produced over 18 horror films. Her upcoming film titled A Soldier's Decent dares to explore the haunting effects of war and PTSD like never before.Follow A Soldier's Descent on Facebook.Donate to support A Soldier's Descent.Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠⁠⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com⁠

Today, T.Shane Johnson is an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, author, world record athlete and dedicated father with an unwavering desire to give back. When a traumatic event nearly ended his life, he fought his way back and eventually built a successful business. Then, when circumstances led to two years of homelessness, he used the same determination to move ahead yet again. T.Shane shares his story with us in this inspiring interview sure to motivate anyone who has experienced trauma, unfavorable circumstances or the everyday challenges of day-to-day life.Learn more about T.Shane at https://tshaneinspires.com.Get a bag of Big Guns Coffee at https://www.biggunscoffee.com.Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

Military service often produces physical, mental and emotional challenges that can cause veterans to withdraw from society. For those experiencing hair loss, the tendency to isolate becomes even greater. Shanna Cochran is a certified hair loss specialist and vendor for the Veterans Administration who is using her talents to serve those who served our country. A caring and compassionate professional with several family members who served, Shanna wants veterans to know that VA healthcare benefits may cover hair loss services. Contact Shanna at Salon SC: https://www.salonsc412.com Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

At 17, Ryan Pavel looked forward to attending the University of Illinois. When the school rejected him, he took a different path and enlisted in the Marines. Today, Ryan draws on this experience to help other veterans prepare for college as CEO of Warrior-Scholar Project. In partnership with the nation’s top colleges and universities, WSP hosts intensive and immersive one and two-week college-preparatory academic boot camps for enlisted veterans and transitioning service members. Learn more about Warrior-Scholar Project. Contact Ryan Pavel on LinkedIn. Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com/

John Tan enlisted in the Navy later than the average sailor, but that didn't stop him from fully engaging in the experience and transitioning the skills he learned to a successful civilian career. Now, as owner of Taitan Game Shop, he's building a community of gamers while supporting fellow veterans. Taitan Game Shop Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com/

In 2021, TSgt Scott Lauderbaugh was just months away from earning a military retirement. All seemed on track until an unexpected twist threatened his future. Scott found himself in a lonely place when he stood up for his beliefs and honored the Oath of Enlistment he swore when enlisting in the service. Links mentioned by Scott: The Forgotten Soldiers Military Accountbility America's Front Line Doctors Liberty Council Military Back Pay First Liberty Institute Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com⁠

Army veteran Mathius Carter deployed to Iraq in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Like so many others, Carter's military service left him with physical and unseen wounds that continue to affect him nearly 20 years after separating from the Army. After becoming a father, he soon learned he needed a way to explain his challenges to his son. In part one of this episode, Carter candidly described his military experience. This is part two, with Carter sharing his road to recovery and how he came to write the book Instead of Sheep: A Soldier's Way of Explaining PTSD to His Son. If you are a veteran in crisis or someone who is concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 then pressing 1 to be connected to qualified responders 24/7, 365 days a year. The call is free and confidential. You can also text 838255 for help. Learn more about Carter's book: ⁠https:/insteadofsheep.net/⁠Learn more about Road Home Program: https:/roadhomeprogram.org/Contact Road Home Program: 312-942-8387 (VETS) Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com⁠

Army veteran Mathius Carter deployed to Iraq in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Like so many others, Carter's military service left him with physical and unseen wounds that continue to affect him nearly 20 years after separating from the Army. After becoming a father, he soon learned he needed a way to explain his challenges to his son. Carter candidly describes his military experience in part one of this episode. Part two will cover his road to recovery and how he came to write the book Instead of Sheep: A Soldier's Way of Explaining PTSD to His Son. If you are a veteran in crisis or someone who is concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 then pressing 1 to be connected to qualified responders 24/7, 365 days a year. The call is free and confidential. You can also text 838255 for help. Learn more about Carter's book here: https://insteadofsheep.net/ Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

Join us for Part 2 of this episode with Army veteran Ron Worstell. Ron continues his story, telling us about subsequent trips to Vietnam and his new mission in serving his fellow veterans. Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

In Part 1 of this episode, Army veteran Ron Worstell tells the story of his service during the Vietnam War and how it continues to impact his family to this day. Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

When Ed Hajduk joined the Navy, he had no idea it would lead him to serving as the Director of the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Ed describes his military service, the sequence of events that brought him to the National Cemetery, and the benefits available to those who qualify to be buried there. https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ncalleghenies.asp https://www.facebook.com/NationalCemeteryoftheAlleghenies/ Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

Andy Jones joined the Marines from a payphone in 1996 and deployed multiple times over the course of his career. The things he experienced affect him to this day, and humor is one tool that helps him. In his free time, he heads up the local chapter of Irreverent Warriors, a nonprofit that brings veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide. On Saturday, May 18, 2024 Irreverent Warriors will be hosting their annual Silkies Hike in Pittsburgh for veterans, active duty, National Guard and Reserve members only. Get more information here. Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. ⁠https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com

Dr. Tim Murphy is a licensed psychologist specializing in resilience and recovery from psychological trauma. He is the founder and clinical director of Fortis-Future near Pittsburgh, PA specializing in the care of veterans, military and first responders, with a comprehensive brain and behavioral health treatment program for PTSD. A Navy veteran, he is the author of three books, most recently The Christ Cure: 10 Biblical Ways to Heal from Trauma, Tragedy and PTSD. Learn more at https://drtimmurphy.com. Original Restore 22 Coffee Roadshow theme created and performed by Roger Cegelski. https://rogercegelskiguitarlessons.com.

Deb Krall served in military and civilian positions at the PA Air National Guard for nearly 50 years, pioneering the way for other women in countless ways. Well known in the military community for her unfailing determination to tend to her airmen's needs, Deb's heart for serving continues in retirement with nonprofit organizations like Operation Homefront and United Through Reading.

When Leo McCarthy separated from the Army in 1976, he transitioned easily into the Moon Township police force and spent the next 41 years serving the community. Upon retiring in 2018, he discovered a new purpose in helping military veterans build camaraderie to help reduce the 22 veteran suicides that occur every day.

After Vietnam, Gary Woodside enjoyed a successful civilian career that led him around the world. Now he's making an impact closer to home, drawing on his Marine training to help a new generation become productive members of society.

Navy veteran Rion Paige grew up in the neighborhood where Veterans Place of Washington Boulevard is located. He recently became the organization's Development Manager, coming full circle in his career from serving his country to serving those who served. Joined by Veterans Place Executive Director Kevin Kordzi and Traditional Housing Manager Sean Glackin, Rion describes the great work being done by the organization.https://www.veteransplaceusa.org 412-363-0500

Since 1941, the USO has been the nation’s leading organization to serve the men and women in the U.S. military, and their families, throughout their time in uniform. Brittany Long, Pittsburgh Center Operations Manager, provides a look at how the USO is supporting military members and families in Western Pennsylvania.

Our past does not influence what is yet to come. Linda Santavicca, author of We Will Count Stars: Following Abraham, highlights three individuals who shared their heartfelt stories on how God took their rendered pasts and used them for something unforeseen. Even though a veteran may be mourning the end of their military career, there is still hope that God will fulfill their heart’s desire.

A growing body of research points to the beneficial effects that exposure to the natural world has on health, reducing stress and promoting healing. Outdoor Immersion founder and executive director Jim Skal takes a faith-based approach to veterans healing by sharing the peace, beauty and reforming power of God’s creation with the veteran and military community through outdoor adventure, recreation and fitness activities.

Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle/assistant coach and Army National Guard veteran Jon Kolb founded Adventures in Training with a Purpose (ATP) to confront health and movement related issues in vulnerable populations who no longer have the benefit of paid rehabilitation. Jon and his son Caleb describe ATP's Aurelius program, a 12-week holistic mind, body and soul training plan that helps veterans gain freedom from trauma and build resiliency from their adversity.

In September 2024, more than 100 years after the end of the war, WWI veterans will finally be recognized for their bravery and sacrifices. Sabin Howard, master sculptor and designer of the National WWI Memorial, shares how the eight years he spent creating the sculpture transformed his understanding of what it means to love and serve one's country.

Sean Buzzard returns to highlight the housing, wellness, career development and support services offered by Veterans Leadership Program. Veterans in need of assistance should contact VLP at 844-857-8387 or by visiting https://www.veteransleadershipprogram.org/.

Air Force Veteran's Retirement Creates a Yearning to Continue ServingAfter serving more than 20 years full-time in the Air Force, you'd think Sean Buzzard would have been ready to enjoy the usual rewards of retirement. But his serving spirit had another idea.

Blue Star Mothers Provide Tangible and Emotional Support to Military Personnel and Families in Southwestern PA Navy veteran Leslie Majocka knows what it means to serve in the military. Being the mom of a service member provided a different perspective. Majocka, President of the Blue Star Mothers of Southwestern Pennsylvania, tells how the organization is impacting the lives of military families in our area. Anyone interested in joining the Blue Star Mothers of Southwestern PA should contact Leslie at [email protected].

Nationwide, the VFW had a record 2.1 million members in 1992. By 2021, that number was just a shade over 1 million, meaning it had lost half its members in a generation. VFW Vesle Post 418 was struggling to survive until the VFW "framily" ignited a fire within the community. Listen as Post Commander Ed Carter tells the story.

Isaac and Kelly Sjol describe how Reboot Recovery helped them take productive steps toward a life of freedom and purpose in spite of Isaac's military trauma.Service members, veterans and families dealing with the moral and spiritual wounds of combat trauma can register for the next Reboot Recovery course starting on January 16, 2024. Visithttps://rebootrecovery.com/military/ to learn more and to register.

Army combat veteran Isaac Sjol and his wife Kelly share the intimate story of Isaac's unseen wounds and the path that led them both toward lasting recovery. Service members, veterans and families dealing with the moral and spiritual wounds of combat trauma can register for the next Reboot Recovery course starting on January 16, 2024. Visithttps://rebootrecovery.com/military/ to learn more and to register.

Gina Wilkes, certified yoga instructor, describes the positive effects of yoga and meditation on the body's nervous system, and why it's important for veterans to give it a try.

Sonny Hanlon, Army veteran and Animal Friends volunteer, shares how having a companion animal can keep veterans active and engaged as they work to combat the intrusive symptoms and impairments associated with anxiety and PTSD.

Navy veteran Nick Redondo is joined by Dr. Karen Plavan who offers insight into substance addiction and how friends and families can help someone with a substance abuse problem.

Nick Redondo, retired veteran and owner of Friendship Perk & Brew, shares an intimate tragedy that fuels his efforts to educate against substance abuse. Visit Nick's coffee shop: https://perkandbrew.net/  

Christine and Rob Ree continue talking about their military experiences and describe how their nonprofit organization, Restore 22, aims to help other military veterans and families.

Christine and Rob Ree share their personal story of the military deployment that changed their lives and how it inspired their nonprofit organization, Restore 22.