The Veterans Voice

Dr. Eric Abbott: Loneliness, Optimizing Focus, and G-Force

Today, it feels like we are being pulled in every direction making it difficult to push ourselves in the one direction we actually want to go. In this episode, Dr. Eric Abbott talks about focusing on our mental health needs in order to increase overall performance and focus. We also discuss loneliness and its long-lasting effects on the body. Dr. Abbot, who is a 25-year air force veteran and current Optum provider, understands firsthand how difficult mental health struggles can be. The Veterans Voice Podcast provides our community with resources, as well as actionable and authentic information regarding Veteran mental health. In keeping with that theme, we are partnered with Optum and Mountain View Medical Group. Through this partnership, we will discuss topics such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other invisible scars that often comes with a career in the military, with Optum providers to help shed light on the issues while gaining some valuable insight from doctors who understand these struggles on a deeper, more physiological level. These episodes will lead our health and wellness series here on The Veterans Voice. 
 
RESOURCES:
https://www.veteranscenter.org/
https://www.optum.com/en/

Tim Murphy: Addiction and Recovery Expert

Alcohol is rooted deep in military culture, but today, we are discussing protocols for when this cultural norm spirals into an unmanageable addiction. Tim Murphy battled addiction from teenage years into late adulthood but has since embarked on a journey of healing and self-recovery while overcoming the unique challenges and obstacles associated with alcohol addiction. Today, he is a recognized expert on addiction recovery and has developed a proven and successful program to help others obtain sobriety in whatever addictions they have.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
RESOURCES:
 
https://www.veteranscenter.org/
 
Tim Murphy on TEDx click here
 
Tim Murphy's Book click here

Good News Stories with Justina: November Update

Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
RESOURCES:
https://www.veteranscenter.org/
kbelaire@mtcarmelcenter.org
 

Sir Gregory Coots: Priest, Life Coach, Film Producer, and Former Military Officer

This week on the show, I’m bringing on my good friend Sir Gregory Coots. Greg is a Priest, life coach, independent film producer, and former military officer. This episode is chock full of motivation, self-help tips and tricks, and as always, good old-fashioned smokin’ and jokin’. The overarching theme of this conversation is not to be taken lightly however, as we dive deep into the importance of being a logical and independent thinker in today's society.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
RESOURCES:
1) Colorado Veterans Breakfast: First Saturday of the month at 8am HERE
2) A short film by Veterans on transitioning out of the military WATCH ON YOUTUBE HERE
 
 

Upcoming SBDC Veterans Conference

On November 1st the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center is hosting the 17th annual Veterans Conference. Presented by Huntington Bank and Co-sponsored by the Colorado Veterans Business Outreach Center and the Colorado Minority Business Office, this will be a one stop shop for any Veteran pursuing entrepreneurship. We hope to see you there! 
RESOURCES:
https://pikespeaksbdc.org/
https://www.veteranscenter.org/

The Patton Veterans Project: with Ben Patton, Mike, and Randy

From the final battles of World War I, to leading the invasion of Casablanca during World War II, to surviving three helicopter crashes in the jungles of Vietnam, the Patton last name is one of the most respected and decorated in American Military history. Benjamin Patton continues his family's legacy in the veteran community through The Patton Veterans Project, a film workshop hosted by Academy award winning film producers catered to helping Veterans heal from their invisible wounds. This week on the show we sit down with Ben, Mike, and Randy to talk about the impact the program has had on everyone involved, upcoming events and workshops, and most importantly, the future wellbeing of our Veteran community.  
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
RESOURCES:
https://pattonveteransproject.org/
"Growing Up Patton"
https://www.veteranscenter.org/
CONTACTS:
workshops@pattonveteransproject.org

Dr. Eric Abbott

The Veterans Voice podcast is dedicated to providing our community with resources for Veterans, as well as applicable and authentic information regarding Veteran mental health. In keeping with that theme, we are partnered with Optum and Mountain view medical group. Through this partnership, we plan to discuss topics such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other invisible scars that often comes with a career in the military, with Optum providers to help shed light on the issues while gaining some valuable insight from doctors who understand these struggles on a deeper, more physiological level. Our first interview is with Dr. Eric Abbot who is a 25-year air force veteran and current Optum provider. He understands firsthand how difficult transitioning out of the military is. In this episode we hear Dr. Abbotts personal story, as well as some detailed explanation on overcoming struggles associated with military service.  
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
Resources:
Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center
Optum Colorado

Mt. Carmel Directors Update with Bob McLaughlin

Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
Resources:
https://www.veteranscenter.org/

Peaks & Pours

https://www.peaksandpours.com/

The Headstrong Project

The Headstrong Project is a non-profit mental health organization providing confidential, barrier-free, and stigma-free PTSD treatment to our veterans, service members, and families connected to their care. This week on the show, our friend Kathryn addresses PTSD, counseling, and The Headstrong projects outlook on veteran mental health.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you're not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
 
The Headstrong Project
Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center

Kevin Baldwin and Bruce Parkman

September is Suicide Awareness Month
Kevin Baldwin, a retired Reconnaissance Marine, and Bruce Parkman, a retired green beret, are on the show this week to discuss some topics that have affected both of their lives. In this episode we will shed some light on blast induced Traumatic Brain injuries and their lasting effects on mental health, conventional versus unconventional treatments for these lasting side effects, and leading indicators of suicidal ideations. Veteran mental health seems to be an ever-evolving topic with no clear and concise treatment. But one thing that proves to help time and time again is friendly support. This is why our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you’re not alone.
As you hear through the stories of our guests each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
RESOURCES:
Mac Parkman Foundation Link
Book: Operator Syndrome
Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center
 
 

Good News Stories with Justina: September Update

Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center

Samantha Wood: Seven-time Leadville 100 Run Finisher

Welcome back to the Veterans Voice podcast. Samantha Wood is an Ultra-Marathon runner, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and a LTC in the Army National guard. As our guest this week, Sam sheds some light on not only the health and fitness, but mindset and motivation techniques that have helped her lead a successful career as a long-distance runner.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
Resources:
Luna Sandals
Dynamic Physical Therapy
Instagram: @woodultra

Chris Lee: Beyond the Battlefield

Welcome back to the Veterans Voice Podcast. This week we have Chris Lee back on the show to talk about his new book titled “Beyond the Battlefield.” Chris is a retired Special Forces medic who now helps others become the best versions of themselves through his life coaching business. In this episode we have over 30 years of Army Special operations experience discussing struggles with mental health, being afraid of failure, hitting rock bottom, and growing as individuals. Through this episode and our stories, we hope to motivate you all to become better versions of yourself. At the end, you’ll hear Chris talk about a near death experience that became the foundation of his book and overall philosophy.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone."

Good News Stories with Justina: August Update

Hello and welcome to this month's episode of Good News Stories with Justina, a production of the Veterans Voice Podcast. On this episode we talk about all of the departments her at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center and all of the good news we have going on. Our goal with Good News Stories is to keep you all up to date on all of our upcoming amazing events, let you know our community involvement, and allow you all to get to know our team! We hope everyone enjoys the episode and to everyone who has served out there, thank you all so much for your service. We are grateful for you.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.

USAA's Chuck Bunch on Face The Fight Coalition

Welcome back to the show everybody. This week on the Veterans Voice Podcast we are proud to host Chuck bunch who is here representing our sponsor for the show, USAA. Chuck brings with him a special message that him and I discuss deeply throughout the episode. Face the Fight Coalition is a program founded by USAA to help prevent Veteran suicide.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
 

Mrs. Colorado USA 2024: Cathy Howell

This week on the show we are proud to host Mrs. Colorado USA 2024. Cathy Howell has earned her tittle by being a dedicated supporter of our military for over 30 years. Cathy's platform, Operation Leave No Military Behind, is her way of ensuring no military member or their families are ever forgotten. Having deployed herself to Bagram, Afghanistan, Cathy understands the struggles we've been through and has dedicated her life to supporting those who have served.
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
 

Good News Stories with Justina

Good News Stories with Justina is a Veterans Voice podcast episode dedicated to Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. On this episode we will hear updates from all of our departments, to include Bob McLaughlin, the executive director here at Mt. Carmel.
 
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.

The Jason Lee Band

This week on the Veterans Voice Podcast we sit down with Jason and Valerie, the guitar/vocalist and drummer for the Jason Lee band; a local rock band here in Colorado Springs. Jason shares some memories about playing the guitar while deployed to Iraq and Valarie tells us about her 20 year long career playing the drums. We will also hear their new single: Young and Dumb, an acoustic song they wrote to record down in Nashville.
 
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.
 

Comeback Yoga: From drill floors to mountain tops

Comeback Yoga is removing barriers and making yoga accessible to the entire military community. They go to where their students are and where they already feel comfortable. Comeback yoga is a fully mobile yoga studio and they host classes every Sunday at 8:30am here at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Come see what they are all about!
https://comebackyoga.org/
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone. 

MACV-SOG Veteran John Bartlett - Lessons Learned the Hard Way (part 1)

We are proud to have our friend John Bartlett back on the Veterans Voice Podcast! John shares with us 23 lessons he's learned the hard way through a life of overcoming adversity. We're calling it "lessons learned the hard way: by MACV-SOG veterans". We will also get an update on John's Purple Heart sign trail that he is now looking to grow nation wide. 
Our mission here on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you are not alone. As you hear through the stories of our guest each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reasons we need to all be there for one another within the veteran community; a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone. 

Stryder Sartor: Inspiration from a Military child

This week on the Veterans Voice Podcast, Stryder Sartor honors his father, SGM Ryan Sartor, by sharing the legacy and inspirational attributes he passed down to him in 2019. We’ll hear Stryder talk with Colin Lightfoot who looked up to SGM Sartor as a mentor during his younger years as a Green Beret. Stryder also tells us how he is acting as a mentor for younger gold start children at A Soldiers Child, a summer camp-based foundation who supports children who lost a parent in the military. A common theme you’ll hear throughout the episode is that Stryder Sartor, who is now 20 years old, is a truly inspiration young man.
Our mission hear on the Veterans Voice Podcast is to remind you all that you’re not alone. As you hear through the stories of guests each and every week, we have all struggled, we have all turned to poor outlets to cope with life, and we have all felt alone at times. But these are the reason we all need to be there for one another within the Veteran community, a community whose voice is needed in America more than ever. This is the Veterans Voice Podcast, and this is a reminder that you are not alone.

Kids on Bikes: Changing Lives with Daniel Byrd

Tune in to this can't-miss conversation with Taylor Chapman and Veterans Voice guest, Daniel Byrd, of Kids on Bikes. This story imparts a sense of passion, hope, and inspiration for listeners. Learn more about this Colorado-based nonprofit and check out the episode to hear the conversation!
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is a Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center service.  Veterans Voice Colorado Springs is produced in the OPTUM Podcast Studio, distributed via the Medicare Mentors Veterans Voice Podcast Channel, powered by Technology Partner Colorado Computer Support, and made possible in part by Supporting Partner, The WireNut Home Services.
 

Behavioral Health Podcast: May 2024

What does it look like to need help? What indicators can you look for to tell if you or a loved one may benefit from a mental health professional? Listen in as Kirsten Belaire, Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center's Director of Behavioral Health discusses signs, symptoms, and ways to reach out when things are hard and difficult to navigate.
 
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is a Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center service.  Veterans Voice Colorado Springs is produced in the OPTUM Podcast Studio, distributed via the Medicare Mentors Veterans Voice Podcast Channel, powered by Technology Partner Colorado Computer Support, and made possible in part by Supporting Partner, The WireNut Home Services.