The Vantage Point
Episodes
Monday Sep 22, 2025
Monday Sep 22, 2025
Ray Linbaugh is one of the few survivors of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines of the U.S. Vietnam War. They were called The Walking Dead—not from Hollywood, but from the hardened jungles of Vietnam, where the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines earned one of the highest casualty rates of any unit in U.S. military history. In this powerful episode, we sit down with a veteran of this fabled battalion to explore what it truly means to walk through fire and come out the other side. It’s a conversation about grit, sacrifice, and survival—one that echoes far beyond the battlefield. Through the lens of lived experience, we unpack how these Marines carried the weight of their legacy, how war shaped their minds, and how they continue to serve in silence today. Perspective is earned in the trenches of life—and this story is no exception.
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Retired Colonel, Bob McLaughlin is the Executive Director of the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, as well as the former Chief of Staff of US forces Afghanistan and Fort Carson Garrison Commander. In this discussion we explore the mindset of the “Soldier for Life” not as a slogan, but as a philosophy. Service doesn’t retire. It transforms. And those who continue to give, whether through mentoring, volunteering, or simply showing up for someone in need, often find that in healing others, they begin to heal themselves. After 28 years in the U.S. Army—serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, and across the globe—Bob could have stepped back. Instead, he stepped forward, founding and leading Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, a national model for veteran reintegration and community healing.
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Hollywood Film Producer Tyler Kindred leads the Light Shop LA, a production studio that crafts commercials for brands across the globe and music videos for major record labels and stars like Beyonce. Tyler recently released Abbey Gate, a short film born from the harrowing real-life escape of his wife during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Sam Westfall is an Army Veteran and passionate bow hunter. After being medically retired from the military following a debilitating injury as a tank mechanic, Sam struggled to find his place. It wasn’t until a friend put a bow in his hand for the first time that Sam started to feel the vivaciousness of life again. Sam tells us about one of his bear hunts, as well as why he made the morally driven decision to switch from rifle to bow hunting.
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Retired Colonel, Bob McLaughlin is the Executive Director of the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, as well as the former Chief of Staff of US forces Afghanistan and Fort Carson Garrison Commander. In this episode, we’re discussing Leadership. Whether you are a parent, member of an organization, or an individual trying to achieve your goals, being an effective leader plays a critical role in the success of each one of these situations.
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Jonny is the Executive Director of Wild Warrior Adventure, a non-profit organization dedicated to healing our nation's warriors through fly fishing. After partaking in some of the most violent 15 months ever documented during the war on terror in Afghanistan, Jonny struggled to stay grounded while transitioning back into civilian life. "The Valley of Death", formally known as the Korangal Valley, is located in Dara-I-Pech District of Kunar Province, eastern Afghanistan. Jonny Benton, a former Army Airborne Infantryman, shares his intimate story with this valley and paints a picture of how this place earned its nickname.
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Have you ever had a moment in life when you had nothing else to lose and just said "what the hell, let's do it?" This is the motto of Retired Lieutenant Colonel Joseph “M9” Markusfeld is a now a commercial pilot and former Special Operations Aircraft Commander. A US Air Force Academy Graduate Class of 1998, M9 was assigned to as a KC-135RT pilot at McConnell Air Force Base Kansas where he quickly qualified as a Special Operations Air Refueling Pilot and became one of the first aircrew deployed in response to 9/11. He would fly combat missions in the opening night of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM and later as a Special Operations Aircraft Commander in the opening night of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. In 2007, during deployment he partnered with the Iraqi Air Force at Forward Operating Base Warrior, Iraq to stand-up the first ever Pilot Training Squadron in a combat zone. Following his return he was selected to stand-up Air Education Training Command’s Special Missions/Irregular Warfare Branch as the first Chief of Special Missions/Irregular Warfare Standardization and Evaluation. He would spend the next five years deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and Ukraine embedding with our coalition partners to develop and sustain their nascent Air Forces.
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
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.
Saturday Nov 11, 2023
Saturday Nov 11, 2023
November marks Veteran and Military Family Appreciation Month, and so we're pausing to thank our military and veteran community for your service. Be sure to get your free 12 oz. coffee from Starbucks on Veterans Day--and check out the many services and resources that your local nonprofits and organizations have to offer to help you every day of the year.
Today's episode features the full interview with Vietnam Era Veteran, Phil Chapman, who served in the Navy as a a Data Analyst from 1965. Hear his humor, wisdom, and inspiring perspective in this interview with Paul Watson.
Also, Chelsea Wallace and John Swailes discuss opportunities for your career after leaving the military.
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.
Saturday May 20, 2023
Saturday May 20, 2023
A look at the housing market for Veterans and their families; a Marine on a mission to toll another Honor Bell and a big donation to Mt. Carmel from a caring small business.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OPERATION STEP UP AND 719 HEROES
DONATE TO SUPPORT THE HONOR BELL FOUNDATION
REQUEST BELL HONORS
A special thank you to Nick Byard and Top Notch Turffor their generous donation of $4,830 to Mt. Carmel!
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is an 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.
Saturday May 13, 2023
Saturday May 13, 2023
In this Veterans Voice conversation with Honor Bell Foundation Executive Director, Chris Boyer, we learn about the Honor Bell, it's history and important purpose. Now, he's on mission to add a second Honor Bell and in future, many more. The Foundation is asking your help to see that veterans being laid to rest across the Pikes Peak region, Colorado and ultimately the country can receive this very special honor.
- Some copy, images and sound courtesy of the Honor Bell Foundation
DONATE TO SUPPORT THE HONOR BELL FOUNDATION
REQUEST BELL HONORS
"Noodle"Honorary Bell Guard member and companion to Chris Boyer
The Veterans Voice presented by USAA is a service of Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, 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.
Saturday Apr 01, 2023
Saturday Apr 01, 2023
In this edition of Veterans Voice, an Honor Flight for women warriors; honoring Pat Tillman's memory by helping both the homeless and Veterans in need; a new L.I.N.K. between Veterans and jobs, and a healthcare provider staffing to better serve Veterans!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOMEN'S FLIGHT
DONATE TO HONOR FLIGHT
REGISTER TO RUN HERE!
TO REGISTER FOR L.I.N.K. OR GET MORE HIRING EVENT INFO
ContactMark Smith at 719-309-4724 or marksmith@mtcarmelcenter.org
GET OPTUM CARE IN COLORADO
ABOUT DR. HARPER | ABOUT DR. JULSON | ABOUT DR. MACMANAMAN
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is an 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.
Monday Mar 13, 2023
Monday Mar 13, 2023
"We believe our veterans deserve our support and recognition for their exemplary military service, outstanding community service and endless encouragement to other local veterans. El Paso County will honor one veteran annually, for his or her efforts defending our country and continued willingness to serve their neighbors and community, as Veteran of the Year."
Nominate Someone for 2022 Veteran of the YearReview the Nomination Guidelines and Example HereFill Out the Nomination Form HereSubmit your nomination by March 31, 2023
- The above is excerpted from the El Paso County, CO website
Nanette Brede' 2020 El Paso County Veteran of the Year
Photo Credit: El Paso County, CO
WATCH NANETTE'S AWARD EVENT
Meet Your Veterans Voice Host
Nanette Brédé | Transition and Milspouse Employment Specialist
Nanette Brédé Mueller is a difference-maker. Following her retirement after 29 years with the U.S. Army as a strategic planner and program manager, Nanette continues as a servant leader volunteering thousands of hours to the veteran community focusing on career transition, spouse employment and veteran-focused national and state legislative issues. An award-winning volunteer, Nanette was selected as the 2020 El Paso County, Colorado Veteran of the Year, in the nation’s largest veterans community. She is also a Distinguished Partner and Community Ambassador with Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center.
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is an 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.
Tuesday Feb 28, 2023
Tuesday Feb 28, 2023
An Air Force veteran, real estate agent, business owner and host of The American Dream TV Colorado Springs (ADTV COS), Clint Jordan is an energetic and charismatic success story. He could do a lot of self promotion with his TV program but that wouldn't reflect his true nature. He's chosen instead to dedicate ADTV COS to shining the light on members of the community he says give back more than they take. In the next installment of ADTV, he features Jay Cimino, owner of the Phil Long Auto Group, founder of Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, and retired Colonel Bob McLaughlin, Mt. Carmel Executive Director.
Wednesday Feb 15, 2023
Wednesday Feb 15, 2023
George Hayward (2nd from left), author of The Party Dolls, the poignant account, as told by men who were there, of a failed escape from a Vietnamese prison camp called The Annex. With special thanks to the United States Air Force Academy's, Dean Miller, and in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Operation Homecoming, which we will explain the coming podcast, George joined Veterans Voice for part one of a two-part conversation about his book and the 1973 bringing home of more than 500 prisoners of war.
Monday Feb 06, 2023
Monday Feb 06, 2023
An Air Force veteran, real estate agent, business owner and host of The American Dream TV Colorado Springs (ADTV COS), Clint Jordan is an energetic and charismatic success story. He could do a lot of self promotion with his TV program but that wouldn't reflect his true nature. He's chosen instead to dedicate ADTV COS to shining the light on members of the community he says give back more than they take. In the next installment of ADTV, he features Jay Cimino, owner of the Phil Long Auto Group, founder of Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, and retired Colonel Bob McLaughlin, Mt. Carmel Executive Director.
Friday Feb 03, 2023
Friday Feb 03, 2023
In this Special to the Veterans Voice, a visit with the featured performer at Boot's Bubbles and Bourbon, Jacob Christopher. Honor Flight of Southern Colorado is hosting a night to celebrate women Veterans and help fund their upcoming flight to commemorate the critical roles they played during times of war.
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
DONATE TO HONOR FLIGHT
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is an 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.
Tuesday Jan 24, 2023
Tuesday Jan 24, 2023
In this Special to the Veterans Voice, a little cutting loose to honor lifetimes of service. Honor Flight of Southern Colorado presents Boots, Bubbles and Bourbon, a night to celebrate women Veterans and help fund their upcoming flight to commemorate the critical roles they played during times of war. Honor Flight's Cindy Long and Barbara Harris share a few touching stories and invite you to help keep them going!
GET YOUR TICKETS HERE
Featuring Country Music Performer, Jacob Christopher Listen to Jacob Here | Book the Band
DONATE TO HONOR FLIGHT
The Veterans Voice Project presented by USAA is an 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.
Thursday Jan 05, 2023
Thursday Jan 05, 2023
On KRDO - Sal Katz, Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center Pueblo's operations manager, was recently interviewed by KRDO Newsradio's Dan Cochell about the upcoming Salute to Heroes event in Pueblo!
Saturday Dec 24, 2022
Saturday Dec 24, 2022
Carrie Lukins and Preston Smith of 719 Heroes are working hard to house veterans. Mt. Carmel's Pueblo operations manager, Sal Katz, is positioning his team to grow and expand their range of services and getting ready for a Salute to Heroes. New Mt. Carmel partner, Oak Street Health's, Rob Parish, explains the advantages to veterans of managed care style health care. Be James Bond for a night and a cause, and much more in this week's edition of Veterans Voice!
Friday Dec 02, 2022
Friday Dec 02, 2022
Veterans Voice recently connected with Mr. George Hayward. Air Force veteran and journalist. Colorado Springs resident. Author of The Party Dolls, the true story of two men's escape from a Vietnamese prison camp. Their plan was code-named The Party. It is our honor to introduce him to you. In this podcast, exclusively in his own words, the story behind the story of The Party Dolls.
Tuesday Nov 22, 2022
Tuesday Nov 22, 2022
In this podcast, Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) State Captain, Jim Balcerovich, talks about PGRs origins and founding, their purpose and their mission to honor our fallen.
Tuesday Nov 22, 2022
Tuesday Nov 22, 2022
Wreaths Across America Day is December 17. A day Wreaths Across America's Joe Reagan will tell you is for remembering, showing gratitude and turning out to help lay wreaths on the graves of the many who gave their all. In this podcast, Joe shares the Wreaths story, tells a couple of his own and has an ask of you. As you'll learn, your sponsorship of wreaths will have a profound impact.
Sponsor Wreaths HereEnter: "Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center (CO0243P) | 170567"if you'd like a portion of your sponsorship dollars to support our mission.
Veterans Voice on Wreaths Across America Radio
Thursdays 10:00 A.M. Eastern; Saturdays 8:00 A.M. Eastern; Sundays 6:00 P.M. Eastern
Stream Live Here
The Veterans Voice presented by USAA is a service of Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, 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.
Tuesday Oct 11, 2022
Tuesday Oct 11, 2022
Wreaths Across America’s Mobile Education Exhibit is coming to the upper lot at Norris Penrose Event Center in Colorado Springs this Sunday, October 16, and opens at 10:00 A.M. The exhibit is interactive and will have staff on hand to explain the mission, teach the history and tell the story of Wreaths Across America and the veterans they are established to honor.
The Veterans Voice presented by USAA is a service of Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, 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.