Warrior Hope

Part of healing is finding something to do, something greater than your point to pour your life into. At the same time, not only is “having a mission” or a “purpose” an important facet of moving forward from the past, it’s also what we were designed to do.   Ephesians 2:8-10 tells us that: 💙 Grace saves us (not our works— meaning “good works” can’t save us and “bad deeds” can’t “unsafe us”) 💙 Grace propels us into a purpose God planned for each of us BEFORE time began (well long before our hurts, mess-ups, hang-ups, bad habits, actions we think might disqualify us—things He already knew about when He “fore-ordained” the great works)   So… 👉 Remember your training 👉 Recognize the opportunities around you 👉 Realize serving isn’t optional— you’re wired for it     (Note: this content comes from the second part of chapter 6 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = Chris Turner discusses his role in Warriors On Mission. After = Dan & Reitzel talk about “still being here.” And if you’re here, there’s still work to do, a purpose for you.   Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Freedom Tour = https://freedomtournation.com   Free Hope for the Warrior Family audiobook = https://www.warriorhope.online/WFA 

In the military, the mission was important. In fact, the mission is what matters The same is true of our call to follow Christ. Finding a new mission is essential to the warrior as they move forward.
 So, in this episode we highlight 5 truths about the “Great Commission,” including… 🎖️ Authority 👉 Sending ✅ Objectives 📈 Development ⚙️ Ongoing   (Note: this content comes from the first part of chapter 6 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = the trailer for our most recent film, Trauma Comes Home After = Jeremy reminds us that when you come home you fight a different war Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/  Host a screening of Trauma Comes Home = https://www.traumacomeshome.com  Free Hope for the Warrior Family audiobook = https://www.warriorhope.online/WFA 

Exfil / exfiltration occurs when warriors are quickly extracted from a combat situation. When it happens, it removes the warriors from a dangerous scenario and places the in safety. But… … it does so PHYSICALLY. And, as you know, ew’ve bee discussing the invisible wounds many warriors carry (and, we’ve said it’s NORMAL to have them). So… 5 keys to healing PTSD & Moral Injury… 🔑 Acknowledge it = admit there’s a problem that exile can’t heal 🔑 Decompress = talk about with others (many of them are carrying similar things, and we realize we have common ground) 🔑 Don’t do it alone = get all the help you need 🔑 Be on mission = find something to do (more about this in episodes 10 &11) And… … for Moral Injury… 🔑 Forgiveness = resolve the spiritual side of it   (Note: this content comes from the second part of chapter 5 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = A WW2 vet says that sometimes you need to “turn the page” to keep going forward After = JT reminds us that healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey (a Songs of Hope clip) Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/ 

In this talk we move into the 3rd section of Disentangled. We defined the warrior (part 1, episodes 1 & 2 of this season), as well as the price they pay for serving (3 & 4). We also dove into great detail about TWO of themes common soul wounds, PTSD and Moral Injury (episodes 5, 6, 7).   The point of talking about past pain isn’t to revel in it— or compare wounds, however. The goal is to— 👉 Acknowledge the hurts, b/c you can’t heal something you refuse to affirm exists 👉 Identify steps to move forward 👉 Actively work towards healing & wholeness (which, as we learn, is more of an ongoing journey than a simple “arrival”)   Again: It is not sufficient to merely understand the cost warriors pay for their service (particularly as it relates to PTSD & Moral Injury). In order to move forward, this understanding must lead to the warrior knowing that hope and healing can also be found. So, we outline 5 keys to healing. We get through the first 2 in this talk; we tackle the final 3 in episode 9.   (Note: this content comes from the first part of chapter 5 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode After = Joe & Bernie (clip for Songs of Hope) remind us that not every “bad” experience is “only bad.” Reflect on the good moments too— that’s part of healing Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/ 

One of the most well-known stories in the Old Testament is the episode in which David, a warrior, got lazy and didn’t go to battle… … and then took the wife of one of his elite soldiers… … and then tried to cover it up.

And then, when that didn’t work, killed the soldier. 👇 You probably know the tale, but haven’t explored it through the lenses of Moral Injury— and looked at how the actions not only affected David but also everyone else who had carry out his orders… 🤷‍♂️ Was he REALLY a man after God’s own heart? Scripture says so… And that means there’s hope for all of us, because we not only see the heroes of our faith at their high points of great exploits (i.e., David saving the day by killing Goliath) BUT ALSO at their absolute failures— and how those mishaps and mess-ups hurt others. ❤️‍🩹 We’ll also talk you through the path forward to healing…   (Note: this content comes from the second part of chapter 4 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = We included the “Moral Injury” mash-up, a collection of clips from Honoring the Code, our second documentary, to define Moral Injury as we move into this new section of the book After = One veteran discusses a suicide attempt that failed… why it happened, what he learned, and moving forward Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/ 

When warriors do things that violate their conscience, their sense of right and wrong, Moral Injury often results. PTSD is a perceived threat to external circumstances. It “looks like” fight of flight (some people add freeze). Moral Injury is internal and is expressed as guilt and shame. It’s something we consistently carry with us. In this episode we talk about the differences— in the next we’ll go into a practical example from the Bible.   (Note: this content comes from the first part of chapter 4 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = PTSD is not new… it’s just had different names in different eras After = Alexis Wilkins wrote a song for Songs of Hope with a family— the kids— who lost their father to suicide. Here, they talk about only having “pictures” left Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/ 

If warriors don’t find healing from the past, they’ll live the present (and future) in light of it. When they find healing, they’re able to help others in new ways, imparting real hope and comfort. So, in this talk we discuss PTSD, a NORMAL response to abnormal events. And, we dialogue about the importance of: ❤️‍🩹Acknowledging the hurt = because you can’t healing a hurt you refuse to admit exists ❤️‍🩹 Realizing triggers will happen again— so you’re not surprised by them ❤️‍🩹 Moving forward with a mission, a purpose bigger than the pain   (Note: this content comes from chapter 3 in Disentangled.)   ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = Chris Turner discusses his involvement in the Warriors on Mission project After = Ginger & Leslie record for Songs of Hope and dialogue about “non combat” wounds received in combat Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/  Freedom Tour = https://freedomtournation.com 

Perhaps the most noted price a warrior pays— the most obvious— is separation from safety. They put themselves in danger AND RUN TOWARDS it, even as others flee. Thats’ the job. And, the danger isn’t limited to battle. In fact, training accidents (and fatalities) regularly occur.   (Note: this content comes from the second part of chapter 2 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = Trauma Comes Home trailer After = JT & Matt talk about the importance of “letting go” to entangle in military life AND letting go to return— at each different chapter Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/  Host a screening of Trauma Comes Home = https://www.traumacomeshome.com    Host a screening of Trauma Comes Home = https://www.traumacomeshome.com

The warrior’s life is difficult. Aside from the everyday challenges everyone faces, warriors pay a unique price for serving. These can impact them even after they return home (as we explore in our latest documentary, Trauma Comes Home).   Three of the costs of serving are: 💰 Separation from family & friends 💰 Separation from one’s own self 💰 Separation from the past, from what once was   Though we want to focus— in this study— on the “bigger issues” of PTSD & Moral Injury, it’s important to affirm each of these. We’ll continue this in the next episode…     (Note: this content comes from the first part of chapter 2 in Disentangled.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode After = Jeremiah talks about when Osama bin Laden actually died, part of a clip from Songs ofHope Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/  Trauma Comes Home = https://www.traumacomeshome.com 

Our “anchor verse” in Disentangled is 2 Timothy 2:3-4. Here’s the NASB version: Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him.   In episode 1 of this series we noted that warriors unite around a common oath— they have throughout history. They also, as we discuss here, align around a common purpose— something bigger than each individual person serving.   The common thread, regardless of where they serve and where their role is, is that they disentangle from civilian life and entangle into the military. This is not only essential for the military, but it’s THE metaphor Paul used for the Christian. We’ll build on this idea later in this series.   (Note: this content comes from the second part of chapter 1 in Disentangled.)   ____________ Videos shared in this episode Before = Trauma Comes Home trailer After = A Songs of Hope song writer & veteran discuss what it was like coming back from Vietnam Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/  Host a screening of Trauma Comes Home = https://www.traumacomeshome.com 

In this new series we talk about Disentangled, our latest resource for warriors. This one is unique in that it is a 6-lesson Bible study about: ⭐️ What it means to be a warrior ⭐️ The price required to serve ⭐️ How to overcome the pains of the past and step into a new mission   Here’s a summary of where we’re headed— 🪢 By necessity, warriors entangle themselves in "soldiering." They set aside the concerns of everyday life to focus on protecting and serving. 🪢 Sometimes it's hard to unentangle from soldiering-- due to the unseen scars of war (PTSD & Moral Injury), the abrupt changes of home, and the lack of (another) mission. 🪢 Warriors are trained for battle, but not trained to return home. Disentangled is a 6-lesson study, using Scripture and real-life examples, to help warriors unentangle and then re-entangle.   The definition of what a warrior is and what a warrior does transcends time and place. Though the tools of war have changed, the essence of a warrior has not. In lesson one we decide two concepts define the warrior— they are: ✅ United by a common oath ✅ They serve a common mission   In this first episode we talk about the oath. (And we explore why Paul applies this imagery to the Christian faith.) ____________ Videos shared in this episode After = Dan Demay & another veteran prepping for Songs of Hope Links to go further Disentangled book = https://www.warriorhope.online/disentangled  Stream our films free = https://warriorsonmission.org/films/ 

You’re not stuck. That is, you ALWAYS have a next best step. Sometimes, the steps are so small you can hardly see any distance between them at all— and you wonder, “Am I actually getting anywhere?” Other times, you take big strides and you can SEE the difference. As long as you’re moving FORWARD… … no matter how fast or slow… … you’ll find and fulfill the purpose for which you were designed. (And, remember, even as you move towards your highest potential, don’t overlook the present… there are SO MANY gifts we miss by always looking forward to that “next best thing.”)   We explain it in episode 15 of the #WarriorHope podcast—

When one of us experiences a “win” and feels joy, we all do… And when one of us suffers, likewise, we all feel it… Especially when we live under the same roof. In this episode of the #WarriorHope podcast we continue the conversation we began in the previous talk—

I learned this one the hard way… If one person in the family is dealing with a tough emotional hurt, then EVERYONE in the family is affected, everyone— whether they see it or not— needs help and healing. ❤️‍🩹 It’s easy to see when it’s not emotional or a soul-trauma… For instance, if ONE person in the family has cancer, everyone’s schedule will adjust. Or if ONE person in the family has the surgery and needs extra attention for a few weeks… everyone adjusts. ❤️‍🩹 Remember, the same is true for EACH area… If one person in the family faces it, we all face it.

It’s easier to move through the pains of the past when you begin serving a greater purpose, something larger than yourself… … something that moves your sole focus off you and places it on something bigger. For sure, you DO need to deal with the hurts of the past— lest you keep re-reading the present (and future) in light of those past pain-points. At the same time, though, you’ve got to choose to move forward. And of of the best ways to do that… is to take that spotlight and shine it on another need, something you can help right. 👇 We talk about it in this episode of the #WarriorHope podcast—

Life is both good AND life is hard. The military is the same way. It’s easy to look back at any experience that was tough or— let’s even go further and use this word— traumatic— and presume the entire ordeal was bad. But life— and “all the things” in it— doesn’t work that way. We’ve got to learn to hold it all in tension, as well as tell ourselves the most honest story about our circumstances. Embrace the shades of grey, and move forward… That’s the subject of this episode of the #WarriorHope podcast.

Healing Moral Injury— which manifests as guilt and shame— is radically different than the cure for PTSD. Part of the problems with guilt & shame is that they not only LOVE the dark (and hate the light), but they also GROW in the dark. They keep us tucked there… But, freedom is found in the light. Freedom occurs when we meet acceptance, find forgiveness, and realize we’re not alone. Listen in… Hope + healing is far more accessible than you might have imagined. Plus, when we meet at the broken spaces, we meet where we actually have common ground AND we can move forward together, building back stronger.

Sometimes, well-intended deeds have bad outcomes. We often assume— as it pertains to military service— that only combat veterans can develop PTSD or Moral Injury. Turns out, anyone who serves can. 💔 Many times this occurs because of what we do or so— even not in combat. 💔 Many times it takes the form of survivor’s guilt. 💔Many times it looks like questions and doubts about things that happened…. In this episode we talk about non-combat-related trauma….

Many times in the military you’re forced to do things that go against your conscience— and even do things that aren’t natural. 👉 Marching all night… 👉Standing watch for the inevitable… 👉Taking the life of another in order to protect the innocent. Even though we can rationalize all of this— and “explain” that they are things that HAD to be done in order to help others, they still extract a toll… Often, the invisible scars these experiences leave behind are DIFFERENT than PTSD (a response to an external event, or events, such that you can “fight or flight” it). Rather, Moral Injury occurs… … when we sense something “in here,” inside of us…. When the threat is OUTSIDE of you, it’s sometimes hard to handle it, but you can address it. You can move away from it. But when the threat is INSIDE of you… … well, you know the saying, “Wherever you go, there you are…”   That’s the subject of this episode of the #WarriorHope podcast…

You can’t diagnose every issue that you need to address… … because some of the stuff you need to take care of isn’t diagnosable.   For instance— ⚙️ you may not be obese, but you might could stand to drop a few pounds. ⚙️ you might not have diabetes, but you might could stand to change-up up the diet and ingest less sugar ⚙️ you might not have a sleeping disorder, but you might could stand to get some more rest in the evening and benefit from a bedtime routine…   You get the idea. Just because someone isn’t “totally broken” doesn’t mean it wouldn’t benefit from some repair and/or attention.   This is true in our emotional life, as well. The truth is that we all carry baggage, we all read the present through the lenses of the past, and we all react in “not the best ways” sometimes.   That’s the subject of episode 7 of this season’s Warrior Hope podcast.

Diagnosing emotional stuff is (sometimes) hard, because… 👉 we each respond to hurts in different ways 👉 we bring different pasts to the event— baggage that already weighs us down differently 👉 it’s part art and part science to sort it all But, there are some objective questions we can ask and begin the process of exploration. And, whereas we don’t want to “invent” an issue that doesn’t exist, we do want to process the pains that actually ARE there, so we live our true purpose instead of “living out” of unhealed hurts. 💙 In episodes 6 & 7 of this season in the Warrior Hope podcast we talk about how to know— unofficially— if you or someone you know might be struggling with PTSD. Here’s the scoop—

“Get over it!” You might have heard someone say that to you before. In fact, you might have even dispensed that advice yourself. 👀 But do you really “get over” certain losses, or do you grieve them, heal the hurts, allow them to become sacred parts of your story, and get THROUGH them… … changed for the better (while still honoring and holding the loss in tension) and empowered to help others on the same journey…? 🤷‍♂️ Episode 5 / season 3 of the Warrior Hope podcast —

We’ve got a knack for “underplaying” what we’ve been through and over-playing what others have endured. We don’t need to play the comparison game, though… Trauma is trauma is trauma is… regardless of where it came from. 🔥 The best approach? Rather than comparing the origin stories of each, rally together and walk towards healing and wholeness. We may have uncommon beginnings, but we can seek a common solution. 🔥 That’s the subject of this episode of the #WarriorHope podcast—

Been through a tough seasons, hard scenario, or difficult circumstance and wondered, "What's wrong with me?" on the other side of it...? You're not flawed. It's natural to feel like the wind got knocked out of you when you get punched hard. 💔 In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast we discuss combat trauma specifically, and note that— yes— going outside the wire changes people. In fact, it would be LESS normal to NOT be affected that it is to be affected…

In Episode 2 of this season's #WarriorHope podcast, we talk about PTSD-- a common occurrence when we find ourselves reacting to external events in the present "as if" we're still in the past. Yes, it's common. What's uncommon is the diagnosis (and it should be uncommon).   In this talk we go back to the basics and describe what PTSD is, where it comes from, and how we can ALL benefit from "not reacting" but responding instead in a healthy way-- especially when we face issues that "trigger" our emotions. It’s hard to walk in your purpose— and reach your full potential— when you’re still clinging to the hurts of the past. And… It’s almost impossible to grab hold of the future while entangled in past pain. Here's a path forward…  

We proudly present our Behind & Beyond the Mission Podcast Series. Episode 1: Behind Our Mission: From Desire to Documentary takes you on a journey of how our founder, Bob Waldrep had the desire to start a non-profit and the series of events that led to starting the Crosswinds Foundation and Warrior Hope, which then led to producing his first documentary that brings awareness to PTSD and other effects of trauma. Crosswinds is a 501 3(c) that works with warriors to help veterans, service members, and families who are struggling with trauma related to military service. Tune in now and join us on this journey! Be sure to hit SUBSCRIBE and share with someone you know and love. Join the conversation online with hashtag #bbtm

Sabrina Fears comes from a military family. In some way, when she enlisted, she knew what to expect. But, then again, you can’t always know, can you? Here are three takeaways from the talk with Sabrina—   ✅ It changes you. Don’t expect to be the “same person” coming out of the military as went in. The changes aren’t all bad, either. In fact, some are quite good and will carry you well into your future.   ✅ It’s OK to adapt after. You might respond to sights and seasons and smells and situations differently post-deployment than you did before. Give yourself permission to adjust.   ✅ Get some tools that work for you. And, don’t go at it alone. In the same way you wouldn’t try to build a house— or a car— or even cook a meal— with your bare hands— don’t endeavor to build a life without the right tools, either. Find some resources— in the form of groups, books, processes— that have worked for others and give them a try. In the end, it’s OK if it’s hard making the transition back home. Think about it logically. It was an adjustment went you left, wasn’t it?   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/ 

Rex Parvin has two son-in-laws who’ve served. In fact, one serves now. Furthermore, Rex leads a group for veterans. From the unique perspective of a father, he shares what to do— and what not to do— when it comes to helping your loved ones walk through the healing process. He says this—   ✅ Repeat the things that help— Don’t assume that everything you do (that works) is a “one and done.” Repeat them. (By the way, the things that help could be different for different people. So don’t presume there’s a formula.)   ✅ Expect it to be hard. Change is difficult. If you go into it expecting there to be challenges, you’ll realize that what you’re enduring is normal and common. If you think transition will be easy, you’ll feel whammies.   ✅ Listen to it, but don’t try to “fix it.” Talking helps. But don’t talk to anticipate what you’re going to say next and then dispense advice. Talk to listen… to be a sounding board. And remember… it all comes down to relationships. Those require time and investment… but, like most long-term investments, the payoff is always worth it.   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/ 

Rock Hobbs has been a fighter pilot, a commercial airline pilot, an addict… and now leads a ministry that helps people— from all walks of life— find inner healing. He teaches from an overflow of what he’s learned the hard way. In this podcast we talk about his story— and some of the events that led him to continue turning from one chapter to the next, until he found himself healed, healing, and helping others heal. He says this…   ✅ You probably “stuffed” some things inside when you were deployed— by necessity. Now, it’s time to “un-stuff” them. Think about that statement. There’s no time— when you’re flying 500+ mph OR even during deployment— to heal. By necessity, you push the pain to the side, be it physical or emotional. You press on. But, later, you MUST unpack the hurt and get help.   ✅ It’s normal to be affected by what you experienced. Many warriors think they’re flawed when they sense they have an issue. The opposite is true, however. The things you endure during deployment aren’t “normal.” As such, it would NOT be normal to be unaffected by them….   ✅ Don’t just cover it up and “keep yourself busy.” Heal the hurt. Rather than burying it, deal with it. Then move one. There’s still a next mission for you.   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  

Scott Landreth is no stranger to the Warrior Hope podcast (season 1, episode 16). We pulled him back into the convo because— for the past year— Scott has been leading a “Centers of Hope” group. This is a HUGE step, because Scott was initially hesitant about even attending a group (just as our guest in episode 6, Andrea Melcher was). I asked Scott, “What would you say to someone who’s thinking about leading one…?” Here’s what he said…   ✅ You can do it— you’ve done hard things before… It’s odd that a lot of men and women will jump out of planes, run INTO enemy fire, and serve our country valiantly— but then they’re nervous about leading a group. Let’s be real. You’ve got the skills. Yo’ve done tough stuff before; you can do this!   ✅ Two factors are consistent— healing and the mission. Scott mentioned that, post-deployment, veterans often need healing. Deployment is a life-changing event. They also need a “next mission” to give their life to. Leading a group— like Centers of Hope— counters both fronts at the same time. It helps you walk in healing AND it actually IS a mission.   ✅ Two big things you learned in the military that you can apply to your life now = camaraderie and connection. Finally, Scott reminds us that everything is about relationships. It always was— and always will be. By the way, that’s Scott’s new service dog, Thor, on the pic.   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  

Dani Rocco is an author, a podcaster, and the mother of a soldier. So, she brings a unique perspective to the Warrior Hope podcast— a view we haven’t heard before. Here’s what to listen for—   ✅ If the solider is deployed the entire family is deployed. Think about it like this— what happens to one person in the family affects EVERYONE in the family. Whether it’s schooling, a hospital stay, a new relationship… or deployment, if one person faces a life-changing event (in any area of life), the entire family does.   ✅Whereas soldiers need support when they return from deployment, families need it while the soldier is away. Notice that the family’s needs come at a different time. While the solider is deployed, the men and women they work with ARE their support system. They’re involved— close and personally— in the grind. But the family now lacks a family member. And an essential component in their daily flow.   ✅Create a support system that’s bigger than what you think you need. We often need the support system and then begin to build it. But, once you need it, you may not have time to build exactly what you need. So, go ahead now and over-estimate your need…   ++++++++++++++ +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  About Dani’s book = Developing a strong relationship within yourself and then as a family unit is one of the many secrets to all successful relationships. The purpose of this book is to give tools and skills to implement in your own life. First through true stories and then through practical skill development from the workbook. Devoted to a Soldier = 4 pillars to strengthen the family unit: 1.Develop Your Family Mission Statement 2.Learn how your ego prevents you from manifesting the life you desire 3.Understanding the power of your subconscious 4.Use the strength of your mind Paperback = https://amzn.to/3Bkw22W  Kindle = https://amzn.to/3vI9MN9  https://www.facebook.com/danielle.datilio.rocco 

Chris Turner is back on the Warrior Hope podcast, sharing a significant chapter of his story… In this show, Chris talks about the time a fellow Marine stood with them— in the barracks— celebrating, only to take his life just a few hours later. No one understand. There were no warning signs. Nothing was ever said beforehand. Everyone just assumed the man had been OK. Until he wasn’t.   That leads us to one of our first observations. ✅ Your hurt(s) may seem obvious to you— but they MAY NOT be to everyone else. You’ve got to say something. Here’s the follow-up. We oren assume our story is unique. And it is. Kinda. But, and this is important… ✅ Your story isn’t that unique. I mean, sure, the details are different. And you’re certainly one of a kind. But, there hurts you feel are common to MANY people. That means you’re not abnormal. And it means you’re certainly not alone. Finally, there’s this… ✅ The biggest breakthroughs happen in the connection, that is, when we come together— even at those pain points— and push forward.   By the way, Chris talks about his song, “If You Drink,” which features MMA Fighter Randy Couture. And, he spells out what it means. Plus, wait until the end of the episode and you can see the video (if you’re watching) or hear the song (if you’re listening).   +++++++ www.freedomtournation.com = the home page for all things Freedom Tour Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  +++++++ Learn more about Chris at www.christurnermusic.com 

In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast, we talk with Don Malin, a retired chaplain. (Incidentally, Don is the soldier who first mentioned that PTSD would be a major issue of concern— almost a decade ago— when Crosswinds first began searching for a topic for the first feature film.) Here are a few takeaways from the talk with this spiritual leader / solider….   💙 You must mourn in order to receive comfort. In the Beatitudes, Jesus actually promised, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will receive comfort.” It’s almost like MOURNING is the door, the entry point we must pass through, to get to the place of comfort. Of course, we tend to squash our feelings— especially any that smack of weakness or seem “bad.” But, we must own WHERE we are, so we can move forward to where we want to be. If we’re in a place of sadness— because of a deployment situation, because of an altered family dynamic— it’s OK to mourn. In fact, it’s encouraged. It IS the way forward. 💙 Families in deployment face different schedules, different needs… and need communication. I asked Don what chaplains did— especially in war zones. Surprisingly, they help warriors sort the trauma of the battle field, but they also help them clear their minds about the home front, too. It’s almost like the warrior lives in two parallel worlds at once. 💙 Murder is not the same as killing, and killing is not the same as murder… (The soul often “keeps the score,” regardless of how we’re able to mentally order this, but— listen in— and Don will outline what this means. If you need additional help, go back to the previous episode, where we discuss the topic of Moral Injury in details.) +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/ 

In this talk we take you straight to the Warrior Hope curriculum, to the lesson where we discuss Moral Injury. Whereas PTSD takes the form of “fight vs flight” and is a response to an external threat, Moral Injury most often looks like guilt and/or shame… and is a response to internal threats. With Moral Injury, you feel like YOU are the problem. (Or, more accurately, what you have seen, experienced, done, or not done creates that problem.) Our best guess it that of the 22 warriors who fall victim to suicide each day, most struggled with Moral Injury morseso than PTSD. That said, here are the three takeaways to listen for— 👉 Moral Injury is different than PTSD (and must be seen as such). We’ll outline the differences in more detail in this talk. 👉 You just address the hurt you want to heal. If you break your right arm, placing your left in a cast won’t heal it. The same is true with Moral Injury and PTSD— you must “cast” the “broken bone” you want to heal. 👉 Freedom is STILL found when you gain courage and step into the light. The way forward— especially for Moral Injury— is heading straight into the light (of course, guilt and shame HATE the light and contend for you to stay in the dark). When you walk into the light, though, freedom comes almost naturally…   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  

Eugene finished shooting the film for the upcoming Crosswinds documentary, loosely titled “When Trauma Comes Home.” Right now, the team is in post-production / full edit mode— and about to release! Over the past few years, Eugene has gotten to be an expert in the area of post-deployment issues… … released two feature length documentaries AND shooting the third (which is almost ready to release) tends to provide you with a unique skillset and wisdom-base.   In our talk, he mentioned this… 💙 Veterans have many resources available— but what of the family? This is one of my top takeaways from our chat, and it makes all the sense in the world. Families are units. Teams. At the most intimate level.   And that leads us to our second observations. 💙 If one family member is affected, everyone is affected… This is essential to recognize. Think about it. You wouldn’t doubt for a second that a kid going to college, a mother or father enduring surgery, or someone in the family moving out doesn’t change everyone in some way… … yet we rarely apply the same logic to military matters. If one person is changed— in any way— everyone is.   Furthermore… 💙 You might be more affected than you think— and that’s OK. Really. Give yourself space to heal. What you’ve been through— in any form of deployment and being separated from family (particular if there are injuries, deaths, and other changes) is a life-changing event. Don’t presume that you can just “flip the page” and move to the next chapter of life. Pause. Connect with others. Do the deeper work. And give it time….   Stay ’til the end— you can watch some of the footage from the upcoming feature-length film.   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  

Stafford Ouderkirk just retired— for the second time. The first time around, he retired from the military. The second time— this time— he retired from TekSouth, a military contractor. Teaming with Crosswinds and the efforts of Warriors on Mission was a perfectly natural fit. For years, Staff and the warriors he worked with relied on the help of military contractors like the company he retired from the second time around. While working at TekSouth, he realized he had a unique opportunity to serve the soldiers whom he had been— in the same way he had been served. “It’s all give and take,” he says. “We always help everyone in any way we can.” On this podcast, we talk a lot about several themes… * Serving others* Finding your own health + healing in the process of serving others* Sometimes your biggest breakthroughs happen as you help others break through for themselves It’s all part of how Staff has lived for the past 60+ years. And, it’s how he intends to keep moving forward. He reminds us that “You never know who you’re helping when you serve someone.” And, “A lot of people are looking for a mission. You don’t have to look far. There’s always someone right in front of you whom you can serve.” Those two points comprise some of my top takeaways from this talk… ++++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org   Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/ Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  Hope for the Warrior Family book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/hope-for-the-warrior-family/  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/ 

I met Andrea Melcher via Zoom— when she accidentally dropped in on one of the online Centers of Hope groups I was hosting. Thinking the group didn’t apply to her, she connected with one of the women on our team and then decided to stay involved— for just a few more weeks. Why didn’t the group apply? Because we were talking about PTSD… Oddly enough, Andrea had been formally diagnosed with PTSD— and had a blind spot, thinking a group that was talking about PTSD had nothing to offer her help. But she stayed. And persisted. And worked the program at her own pace, garnering the support of her husband and other friends. In time, she felt she was ready to have a group— a live, in person gathering— in her hometown. But no one else would lead it. Not the church. Not the local VA. No one. Moreover, everyone told her plainly, “You’re supposed to lead this. You’re supposed to empower others with what you’ve learned— and are learning.” So, just over a year later, here she is, leading her group. Two groups, actually. Andrea leads a group for warriors, using the Warrior Hope curriculum, while her husband leads a group for spouses utilizing our Hope for the Warrior Family book. And they mix it up with nights in which everyone just hangs out together… Is it working? You bet. By the way, Andrea is also one of the first females to be authorized (with orders) to wear the 75th Ranger Regiment Combat Patch. She’s afraid of heights— but will jump out of planes and fast rope. She’s also afraid of speaking in front of groups, but leads a fabulous movement in her area. Here’s part of their story, along with my three takeaways from our talk together… In it, you'll find that your biggest breakthroughs often come in helping others break through themselves...   ++++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  Hope for the Warrior Family book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/hope-for-the-warrior-family/  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/ 

I met Andrew Farrer back in 2021— when I was teaching the Warrior Hope material at a leadership training (certification) event in Tennessee, just south of Nashville. At the time, we were about to launch the Freedom Tour (see episode 3, with Chris Turner), just beginning to make headway into the Tennessee area. Andrew was— at that time— the incoming chaplain for the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) in the State of Tennessee, where we were beginning to use the curriculum as a means to take hope + healing to veterans throughout the state. In this episode Andrew shares his story, as well as how he realized (during the training) that he still had “unchecked baggage” he needed to deal with. Turns out, we all do… And, as we discuss it with others, we discover that our stories aren’t that unique. That is, we often think we’re the ONLY ones enduring a problem or a pain-point, but there are others. Many others. Sure, the details are different. Yes, everyone’s experience varies… But, there are SO MANY areas where we can connect. And should. Because healing often happens in those spaces, when we meet each other at the bottom, hold each other up, and begin making small steps— and then strides— forward. Listen in— or watch. You’ll be glad you did…   +++++++++ Andrew’s links = VFW, Department of Tennessee Chaplain (Facebook group) = https://www.facebook.com/groups/572102340686968/  Stones River VFW Post 12206 = https://www.facebook.com/groups/783116829035730/  Tennessee VFW website = https://vfwtn.org/  Crosswinds info = Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/ 

You likely hear the term “PTSD” a lot, but have you stepped back to see what it actually means…? In episode 4 of the Warrior Hope podcast, we break it down and define it, using the info from lesson 2 of the Warrior Hope curriculum. Here are a few things you’ll learn— ⭐️ PTSD isn’t new. In fact, it’s been around as long as people have been around. Though we’re just now using the term “PTSD,” it’s existed under different names for a long, long time. ⭐️ PTSD is a natural response to external threats. It often elicits a “fight or flight” response based on where we are, who we’re with, and what the threat is (some people say “freeze” is another response, but we interpret that as a subset of “flight”). ⭐️ PTSD alerts us to something we actually need to deal with— in our soul. And, in the same way we shouldn’t ignore physical symptoms, we don’t want to overlook “soul symptoms,” either. Those emotional responses are highlighting something we need to learn, an area we need to explore so we can find healing… And that leads me to this final observation… ⭐️ When you sense something “wrong” with you— and it elicits an emotional reaction, most often that highlights what’s RIGHT about you rather than what’s WRONG… Think about it… War is a traumatizing event. So is abuse. So is an accident, a natural disaster, and so many of the other triggering events which cause PTSD. To endure ANY of those an not be affected wouldn’t show that we’re healthy— it would highlight the opposite, that we’re not. So, when we feel an emotional reaction (like PTSD), we shouldn’t feel any more shamed than we would for feeling winded after running 5 miles, feeling hot after walking through a desert in the middle of the day, or feeling physically exhausted after staying up all night… Those responses show that we’re normal. +++++ Crosswinds info = Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  

Chris Turner headlines The Freedom Tour— a project Crosswinds uses to take the message of hope + healing to veterans. The tour is the vehicle; healing from the past and launching into your next mission is the message… In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast Chris talks about the unique strategy— and why it works. And, of course, I offer my three takeaways— ⭐️ We all carry a weight no on talks about Yet everyone knows it’s there. So, maybe we should just own the fact that— for each of us— life is BOTH tough and beautiful. ⭐️ We can connect in those common areas… … the common areas of the struggle. No one is immune from it. And, we’re better together… ⭐️ Pace your healing… It’s a journey, not just a destination. That sounds cliche, I know. But, it’s better when you recognize that the pain didn’t come in an instant, so it probably won’t just vanish in an instant either. Walk it out…   ++++++ www.freedomtournation.com = the home page for all things Freedom Tour Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… Learn more at http://Warriorsonmission.org  The Centers of Hope = https://thecentersofhope.org  Stream Invisible Scars (PTSD) or Honoring the Code (Moral Injury) here: https://thecentersofhope.org/films/  Warrior Hope book = https://thecentersofhope.org/product/warrior-hope-basic-training-for-living-on-mission/  Warrior Hope online course = https://thecentersofhope.org/online-courses/  +++++++ Learn more about Chris at www.christurnermusic.com 

This week we talk with Eugene Cuevas about the conversations we need to have regarding PTSD and more… (Eugene is the mega-talented director of the Invisible Scars and Honoring the Code documentaries, as well as the upcoming title to be released about warrior families.) Back in the day, people gathered on the front porch— and talked about the real things of life. Now, well… we don’t have many front porches, and we don’t dive too deep. My top 3 takeaways this week = ⭐️ Create a front porch. Wherever it is, however it is, connect with people… ⭐️ One of the big topics we need to discuss… PTSD. That’s right, let’s go deep. A lot of people are hurting— no need to chit chat about the latest TV show, a cat meme, or who wore what to some awards show no one really cares about. ⭐️ Those conversations open us up to a whole new world. Sure, we find HURTS there… But we also find HOPES… We need to work on both. Heal from the past, and launch into your next mission… ++++++

Season 2 of the Warrior Hope podcast rolls out today… What’s it about? In episode #1 of the new season I discuss it… ✅ We connect veterans to their next mission ✅ The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past ✅ Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission ✅ Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members… The take-ways from this week’s talk = 👉 You’ve got skills. Warrior training is the best on the planet. Everyone tries to mimic it— from athletes to business school. You have it, and the training still works— for all areas of life. 👉 The clothes don’t make the man (or woman). It works the other way. So you took off the uniform. No problem. The uniform was important, but not as valuable as you. 👉 Now, you choose the mission. When you were in the service, you were told what to do— and served with honor. Now, you get to decide where you’ll exert that honor….   +++++++ Warriors on Mission = connect veterans to their next mission. The most common obstacles we see are 1) isolation and 2) unresolved hurts / unprocessed pain of the past. Finding that next mission matters because 1) you have a purpose, and 2) there are people who are going the affected (for the good!) by you living that mission. Those people include your family, your friends, and fellow service members…

Scott Landreth served in the Army from 1975-1982… due to the classified nature of many of his missions, he can’t tell you a whole lot other than that he was stationed in several stateside locations, as well as Greece, Germany & other “undisclosed places.” I met Scott when he walked through the doors of one of our meetings with Rambo, his service dog. Scott acquired Rambo after decades of living— and enduring— Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD on his own. “Rambo really gave me my freedom back,” he says. Then, after describing HOW Rambo did that, he adds, “And my wife. Hers, too. She was no longer stuck, having to wait on me… she could move about, too. So, he brought both of us freedom and healing.   In this episode we discuss Service Dogs of Alabama— and what service dogs do. And, we dive into Scott’s story (the parts he can share). We talk about what it means to have an animal that that— *read your mood *know when and how to “get your back” *awaken you when you’re sleeping and having a nightmare *handle dozens of tasks you might not be able to do for yourself *understand which people around you are “safe” and which ones aren’t Here’s part of Scott’s— and Rambo’s— story.   ++++++++++    Service Dogs of Alabama = http://www.servicedogsalabama.com  https://www.facebook.com/scott.landreth.7  Scott & Rambo = 2-minute video story = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hc2NPRu4F60  Fox 6 News story = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6OPdLbeIcs 

My friend Michael Thorin served in the Army from 1990-1994, and then the Alabama Army National Guard from 1994-2009.  He deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq, where he served as a scout, providing security for convoys, quartermaster supply missions, and fuel and essential supply deliveries. Michael saw combat during his tours. He left the Army as a Sergeant qualified as a Scout, Communications Specialist and a Combat Medic. Today, Michael suffers from several medical issues he discusses openly. Most people refer to it at “Gulf War Syndrome,” citing the burn pits, landfills, and other contagions to which soldiers were exposed.   In this episode we talk about Michael’s story… He goes way back, explaining how he was called into ministry when he was 16. Then, when he was 24, he was “re-called.” But, he continued serving and soldiering… even as he sought to figure out how and when he could make that transition. Along the way, due to his illnesses, Michael lost his house. And then went bankrupt. He lost jobs and titles and roles… And, yes, he eventually had to hang up his uniform.   But… … and this is something we teach in the final chapter of Warrior Hope…. “You remain that warrior.” The training is good for all of life. The discipline is good for anything you do. And, your ability to strategize, to make things happen, and to get it done… it is needed. Michael reminded me of something Victor Frankl said: “When a man can no longer his circumstances, he must change himself.”   Michael how spends a lot of time at home. But, he’s extremely active on social media where he douses people with hope and encouragement daily. In his words, “A lot of people are looking for something extraordinary to do… but, it’s amidst the ordinary of everyday life that we find the extraordinary.” Taken from a man who’s done “both” (or, rather, what many people who label as “both”), those are wise words… … and it’s part of what we do in the Centers of Hope / Warrior Hope material— we empower warriors to identity their next mission. This is part of his story…    ++++++++++ Find Michael on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/michael.thorin.1  Purchase the book Warrior Family at https://amzn.to/3eAsdYs  To find the Warrior Hope manual on Amazon, go to: https://amzn.to/2OCd5zs  Or, locate the leader guide here: https://amzn.to/2ZBnCRF  

Chris Turner is a singer/songwriter from Ninety Six, South Carolina and a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. I first met Chris a few years ago at the first Songs of Hope event (Songs of Hope = an event Crosswinds created to generate awareness about veterans + PTSD + Moral Injury. Veterans are matched with singer-songwriters who put their stories to music.) Chris performed at the beginning of the show… While in the military, Chris served as a Field Wire Communications Specialists while stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He also found his way to 29 Palms, California and and overseas at Okinawa, Japan and Pohang, Korea.   Chris made his way to Nashville in May 2010. He says, “Driving in on I-24, I can remember saying to myself, That's a big town with alot of people - where do I start?” Chris would soon learn that Nashville is the biggest, smallest town in the country. He continues, “Nashville is a town where everyone knows everyone. I was told early on be careful, because you never know who you are talking to."   Playing small restaurants and coffee shops with his guitar Chris started his journey. "I can remember performing in a cafe north of town for two hours for two people. I made three dollars in tips that night. I still carry those three dollars in my guitar case to remind me of my first gig in town and how much of a reality check it was.” But, as time passed, the audiences grew— as well as the depth of his songs.   Chris writes a lot about his service, as well as circumstances and situations veterans face. I titled this talk “If You Drink,” because the video targets the struggles that vets deal with when suffering from PTSD. The imagery— and lyrics— vividly show how one vet chooses to deal with his fight. Rather than drinking your sorrows away… or going downhill, he song communicates, come and sit with us. Let’s walk this thing out together…   +++++++ Chris Turner Music on Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/cturner96/  Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/christurnermusic/  Chris’ website = https://www.christurnermusic.com/  If You Drink = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oKHoIGTOGY  The Songs of Hope playlist on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/E_ilBry6kE4 

In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast I talk with Pastor Robert Caridi, a leader I met when he attended our first Centers of Hope leader training event this past February in Birmingham, Alabama. Robert was born to in an Italian-American family in North Bellmore, New York. He was raised Roman Catholic, and followed all the required religious practices attending mass regularly. He graduated college with a BS in Education, and earned a Master’s in Special Education— a subject he taught for 30 years. He married to Theresa (who joined him with us in Birmigham) back in 1983 and we continued our religious practices. But, grace entered the equation…   In March 1989 they attended Neighborhood Assembly of God and heard the message of freedom preached. In his words, “Both my wife and I gave our hearts to the Lord that day and were born again. Since that day, by God's grace, we never looked back.” Caridi had a pastor who preached verse-by-verse through the Bible, thereby giving him a foundation of faith that he’s learned to apply everywhere in the world. In January 2015, his Pastor was killed in a car accident in upstate New York. I walked the congregation through the healing process of this tragic loss… then, something unexpected happened…. They voted on as an Interim Pastor… Then, not much time later, they asked him to become the Senior Pastor. For 3 1/2 years, he pastored the church while finishing my career in education.   In June 2018, he retired from teaching and has been leading the Neighborhood Assembly (the name of his church). I asked Robert to join us because his church saw a unique opportunity to serve veterans. A lot of times church leaders reach out to us and wonder, “What do I do? Or are there veterans around here?” Robert talks about some of the tough questions he’s helped veterans navigate (i.e., there’s a difference between murder, which is wrong, and killing, which warriors sometimes have to do). And he discusses the necessity of building trust…. He answers questions about medications (some people think they’re “all bad,” others thing medication is THE exclusive way to go… he offers us a 3rd option). He talks about connecting veterans to other veterans, and staying in touch without being pushy…. And, he discusses the power of story…. Here’s how it all happened. Quite simply, he served the people right before him at each step of the way.   ++++++++++ To learn more about Caridi’s church, go to http://bellmoreag.org/who-we-are/our-leadership  To find the Warrior Hope manual on Amazon, go to: https://amzn.to/2OCd5zs  Or, locate the leader guide here: https://amzn.to/2ZBnCRF 

Lt. Col. Don served as a chaplain in two tours of duty in Iraq & Afghanistan.  He retired in 2013 as the Chief of Chaplains of the Mississippi National Guard. In his civilian life Don continued his service assisting veterans through the Vet Center in Jackson. Don has a unique relationship to Crosswinds— on multiple levels. For the purposes of our talk today, though, Don is the man that turned Bob (the founder of Crosswinds) on to the idea of PTSD. Bob had begun Front Porch Media as a means to use his faith background to discuss cultural trends. “What’s something in culture that you see needs to be addressed?” Bob asked Don. “PTSD,” he answered. Until that point, Bob hadn’t heard about it, so he asked, “What do you mean?” Then— “Tell me about it.” “Well,” Don replied, “it’s like this… when I got back from deployment, it took me a few years to realize I was in a thunder storm and not under mortar fire.” In Bob’s own words— and in a story he tells quite often— “that sounded like a strange answer, because I had no experience I could compare. But, we began to study PTSD and learned that it’s very common, it’s something that’s been happening for centuries, and it’s something from which we need to remove a stigma…” Don is featured in the documentary Crosswinds soon thereafter released about PTSD, Invisible Scars. In the film, Don and other warriors and professionals discuss the emotional and mental wounds— the invisible scars— war often creates… In this episode, we talk about Don’s background and what led him to enlist… And then we talk about the things chaplains deal with daily, as trusted counselors and advisors in the theatre of combat. Soldiers often speak about comoraderie, brotherhood, and the warrior standing beside you…. But there’s also much isolation, as warriors often leave family and friends and full lives behind in order to answer the call. Don provides us with a unique perspective. +++++++++++++ Learn more about Don’s ministry, CrossSwords at http://www.crossswords.org  Stream Invisible Scars at www.InvisibleScars.online  Purchase the book Warrior Family at https://amzn.to/3eAsdYs 

In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast, we talk with Ginger Branson, a Desert Storm veteran (relative to this talk) and member of Mensa (probably relative in some way). Ginger (LTC-Ret, US Army) served in Desert Storm with the 251st Evacuation Hospital January 1991 through May 1991. During the 16 weeks the 251st Evac Hospital was operational in Saudi Arabia, they admitted 2,250 patients, performed 428 major operative procedures, and recorded 36,374 outpatient visits. They were told, unofficially, that we were "the busiest hospital in theater.” Ginger took a unique background to the Army… She began as a civilian nurse and, in her words, “hated it.” Then, after serving in the Army… she loved it. We discuss why there was a difference in this podcast. And, we talk about other things she learned while serving overseas, amidst a “strange” culture…. Why did the women walk behind the men instead of in front? (It’s not why you think.) What did men do when they married multiple women? (That wasn’t what she initially thought, either.) We also talk through some of the “deeper” issues— like what was really happening with refugees, what they did when the war was over, and how Ginger re-integrated into civilian life… Ginger is— this is my impression—a “joy bomb.” She’s content, and happy, and it oozes to everyone around her… But, she’s realized there’s so much to be thankful for… And she’s seen just how important the people around you truly are… It’s easy to take things for granted until you see the world and see the “other side” of the story— many times realizing that things are “better” than you thought at first glance, yet also realizing that there’s so much you possess that you’ve taken for granted… Ginger has a combined service— in the U.S. Army and in the Reserve— of 22 years. In the time— and since then— she met a lot of people. In this talk she offers a list of resources and organizations who are ready to assist veterans. So, if you’re a military family listen for mention of AmVets, DAV, American Legion, and more… And, take a look at Ginger’s book on Amazon. The full episode is available at www.WarriorHope.com/blog/10 or your favorite podcast provider.   +++++++++++++ Watch Ginger’s video from Songs of Hope on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zImehAp9114  Find Ginger’s book, Bend My Dog Tags and Send Me Home, on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2C6LiUG  

“Hamp,” as everyone calls him, is a magnet. With 8 years of military service, 25 years in civiil service, and now leadership at the local DAV chapter (Disabled American Veterans), people are drawn to for life + hope + encouragement. But he hasn’t always felt like that. (And, he’ll tell you, sometimes he still doesn’t feel that way.) In this episode of the Warrior Hope podcast we go way back to Hamp’s days on the submarine, talk ab out his time as a Navy police officer, and reflect on the scars of service that were invisible… … the hurts that no one sees. He reflects back on his day’s time in Vietman, wondering if perhaps he had the same struggles.   At some point, I asked Hamp, “How did you know something was wrong? If it wasn’t a physical injury, how did you know…?” He explains it in this talk. And, he describes how he not only found hope + healing through some relationships at the local VA, but how he determined to turn around and help others— encouraging them with the same help he received.   Now, Hamp leads the local chapter of the DAV, specializing in helping veterans who were either injured in active duty OR have an injury that was aggravated because of active duty receive their benefits. On Tuesdays, they navigate veterans through the pile of paperwork required to receive benefits. On Thursdays, they function more like “family,” and on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays they run a food pantry. Listen in. And pay attention as Hamp talks about the notion that many wounds— some of the deepest ones— aren’t seen on the surface of our skin. They mark our souls.   Then, notice… … the pain in your past may very well become the platform you use to propel others towards hope + healing, too. Paul explained it like this, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT).

Staff Sgt. Gloria Williams served in the United States Air Force as a communications specialist stationed in Europe, the Philippines and stateside. She gets great joy from sharing her experiences in service as a way of helping others.  Gloria is particularly interested in providing help through Mental Wellness forums.    In this talk, Gloria opens up about the hurt she experienced in the military, specifically as a victim of Military Sexual Trauma (MST). She talks about how this affected her marriage, and what it means for now…. … Then, she talks about her business— a home-based enterprise which she uses as a platform to encourage, equip, and empower other women with the message of true beauty. In her story you’ll see a great example of what it means to live the mission we have of: 1. Finding healing from the past, and 2. Identifying the next mission +++++++++ Watch the video of Gloria and two other veterans discussing Centers of Hope: https://youtu.be/5fPUyDYzthU  Warrior Hope- purchase on Amazon- https://amzn.to/2KuJmZS  Invisible Scars- stream the film free at www.InvisibleScars.online