Helping The Brave Podcast

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with John Smith for a conversation about life after military service, VA claims, family, faith, and finding purpose in the next chapter. John shares why he chose the Marine Corps, how he built a career as a tactical air defense controller, and how that path eventually led him to the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics community. After retirement, he stayed close to the mission by continuing to support Marines and sailors as a contractor and subject matter expert, while also building a podcast and looking for more ways...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Damon Darnall, also known as the Drone Boss, for a conversation about drones, entrepreneurship, and why this fast-growing industry can be a strong fit for veterans. Damon shares how he got into flying at a young age, how the drone industry has evolved, and why he believes commercial drones are creating one of the biggest business opportunities in the years ahead. He and Ed talk about inspections, solar, dams, power lines, delivery systems, mapping, AI-powered automation, and how drones are opening doors for small business owners. One...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Aaron Crippen for a real conversation about military service, hidden trauma, transition, reinvention, and purpose. Aaron shares why he joined the Army, what life looked like in infantry service, and how injuries and experiences from that time followed him long after he got out. He talks openly about not fully understanding PTSD at first, dealing with survivor's guilt, learning how trauma shows up years later, and navigating a system that often leaves veterans frustrated when they need help most. The conversation also explores what came next. Aaron...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Terry Weaver for a conversation about military service, transition, creativity, and the power of storytelling after the uniform comes off. Terry shares how he joined the Navy, served as a Corpsman with the Marines, and eventually had to figure out what came next after service. That next chapter took him through business, entrepreneurship, writing, acting, and filmmaking. What makes this conversation stand out is how honest it is about reinvention. Terry talks about discovering creativity later in life, building a new mission around meaningful stories, and why...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Chad Singer, a Navy veteran and founder of Canine Revolution Dog Training, for a conversation about service, transition, entrepreneurship, and finding a new mission after the military. Chad shares how he came from a long family line of Navy service, attended The Citadel on a Navy ROTC scholarship, and served as a surface warfare officer before leaving the Navy and building a business in dog training. What started with a difficult personal experience with his own dog eventually became a full-time mission helping other owners better understand...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Mike LeBlanc for a conversation about military transition, identity, entrepreneurship, and the challenge of building a meaningful life after service. Mike shares why he chose the Marine Corps, what it was like coming from a non-military family, and how difficult it can be for veterans to translate military experience into civilian opportunity. He talks openly about the directness veterans carry into the civilian world, the struggles many face when trying to find their footing after getting out, and how he eventually found his path through education, leadership...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut sits down with Eric Hommel for a direct and thought-provoking conversation about military service, Afghanistan, leadership, and the long-term impact war has on veterans. Eric shares his unusual path through the military, from enlisted Navy submariner to Navy reservist to commissioned Air Force officer. He talks about the systems he saw from the inside, the politics of military careers, his experience commanding in Afghanistan, and why mission clarity matters more than most people realize. This episode also explores what happens when leaders focus more on careers than mission, why veterans...

In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut talks with Scott English, a former Canadian Army medic and Navy diver who now leads Combat Fitness, a performance-focused training business for military, law enforcement, and tactical athletes. Scott shares his journey through service, his transition out, and how burnout, operational demands, and changing priorities pushed him toward entrepreneurship. He and Ed talk about the realities of military medicine, the difference between field and clinical environments, the mental toll of the COVID period on service members, and why veterans often make strong business owners after they leave the military. They...

In this episode of Helping The Brave, Ed Parcaut sits down with RaterHQ: After Dark, a former VA rater and Army veteran, for an honest conversation about how the VA claims process really works. They discuss the rise of online information around veteran disability claims, the problem of misinformation, and why veterans need better guidance when it comes to DBQs, nexus letters, secondary conditions, and evidence. RaterHQ shares how her channel began as a way to educate VSRs, raters, and authorizers after hours, and why she continues to speak out about what veterans should know before filing or appealing a...

In this episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with guests Chris Miles and Lee Ettinger for an engaging conversation about military service, transition to civilian life, and entrepreneurship. Chris Miles shares candid stories from his time in the Marine Corps, including challenging boot camp experiences and lessons learned from amphibious assault training. He and Ed Parcaut dive into the ways military culture has evolved over the years, the importance of community among veterans, and the struggles many face after leaving service—especially when it comes to navigating benefits, healthcare, and finding purpose. The episode also explores th...

Join Ed Parcaut as he welcomes Dean Davidson for a candid conversation about military service, PTSD, and the journey of healing. Dean shares his story of serving in the U.S. Army, the challenges of lost records and transitioning to civilian life, and how writing and acting became a creative outlet. Delving into his upcoming novel "The Emir: The Tora Bora Vendetta," Dean discusses the power of storytelling for veterans, messages of hope and redemption, and the importance of reaching out for support. If you're seeking inspiration, honest perspectives, and insight into the veteran experience, this episode delivers. *Contact Ed...

Welcome to Helping the Brave with host Ed Parcaut, the show dedicated to supporting veterans as they navigate life after service. In this episode, Ed sits down with Randy Bridge, Army veteran and author of Hard Hat Philosophy. Together, they discuss the challenges veterans face in accessing VA benefits, overcoming the stigma around seeking help for PTSD and service-connected injuries, and practical advice for maximizing your benefits and securing your family's future. Randy shares his personal journey from military service to a decades-long career in the railroad industry, overcoming periods of hardship, loss of purpose, and rediscovering meaning through helping...

In this compelling episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Eric Holt, a U.S. Army veteran and former fire chief, whose career journey took an unexpected turn after standing up for election integrity. Eric Holt shares his story, from serving as a firefighter in the Army to uncovering troubling violations during a local fire district election in Colorado. His decision to do the right thing set off a chain of personal and professional consequences—including retaliation, job loss, and a long legal battle. Listeners will hear Eric Holt candidly describe the challenges of rebuilding a fractured fire de...

In this compelling episode of Helping the Brave, Ed Parcaut sits down with Navy Chaplain Larry Brant to unpack the critical, often misunderstood topic of moral injury. Larry candidly shares his path from worship pastor to 16 years serving as a chaplain for the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Together, they explore the challenges veterans face with PTSD, moral injury, and the VA claims process, as well as Larry's upcoming book, "Restoring the Broken." If you want an honest, empathetic look at the spiritual and emotional wounds of military service—and practical advice on seeking help and healing—this episode is for...

In this candid episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed welcomes guest Alec Altamirano for an in-depth conversation about military service, veteran benefits, and life after the uniform. Alec shares his journey from joining the Marine Corps in 2005, serving as a machine gunner in Iraq, and navigating the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, including the pursuit of education and his current role as a battalion chief with CAL FIRE. Together, they dive into the complexities of navigating VA benefits—unpacking everything from disability ratings, GI Bill usage, and Vocational Rehab, to the importance of documentation and advocacy for on...

Welcome to Helping the Brave with your host, Ed Parcaut. In this episode, Ed Parcaut sits down with Dennis Mark Interdonato, a veteran, real estate expert, and founder of The Dennis Mark Group. Together, they dive deep into Dennis's journey from serving in the Army to building a thriving career in real estate—highlighting the challenges of transitioning from military life, the changing landscape of Army training, and the realities of running a family business. Dennis opens up about his path to finding his niche in divorce real estate, including his drive to provide a compassionate, client-focused experience for people na...

In this insightful episode, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Army veteran and financial planner Chris Pollard for an engaging conversation about military service, career transitions, and building financial security after the uniform comes off. Chris Pollard shares his journey from high school Army reserves, through West Point and active duty deployments, to his current career in personal financial planning. You'll hear candid stories about leadership, the challenges of military and civilian life, and why purpose matters when planning your next chapter. The discussion dives into practical financial topics, including: The unique financial planning needs of veterans and business owners...

In this thought-provoking episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with veteran and author Jeff Kildow for an engaging conversation about service, history, and storytelling. Jeff Kildow shares his journey from serving as a missile maintenance technician in the United States Air Force during the 1960s to a long career in aerospace engineering and ultimately becoming an author of alternative history novels about World War II and beyond. Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of military life, reflections on the evolution of technology in warfare, and insightful discussions about the importance of preserving history through literature. Jeff Kildow...

On this episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with Marine Corps veteran Carl Able to dive deep into a life of service, transition, and the drive to make a difference after the military. Carl shares candid stories—from his unique path into intelligence work, experiences in Iraq, learning new languages at Monterey, and navigating the world of veterans' benefits. The conversation opens up about the challenges and rewards of leaving the military after 20 years, dealing with VA disability, and why it matters to speak openly about these benefits. They also discuss Carl's ambitions for entering politics, th...

On this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes physician assistant and Navy veteran Johnnie Gilpen, who shares his journey from the Oklahoma National Guard to the Navy, and ultimately finding his calling in medicine. Together, they dive deep into the realities and aftermath of military service—from handling life-changing injuries to navigating the complex VA benefits process. Hear firsthand how Johnnie Gilpen tackles the challenges of medical retirement, deals with long-term health effects, and leverages his experience to help fellow veterans secure their benefits. The conversation is packed with practical advice for those seeking compensation, tips to or...

Join host Ed Parcaut as he welcomes Marine Corps veteran Jerry Clark for an inspiring episode of Helping The Brave. Jerry shares his journey from West Texas to Vietnam, his experiences as an 0311 grunt, and how his military service shaped his life. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, the importance of finding purpose, and overcoming invisible "blind spots"—especially those born from military training. Jerry discusses how his struggles led him to become a counselor, supporting others for over 30 years. Together, Ed and Jerry explore veteran support groups, the fight for VA benefits, PT...

In this episode, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient Omar Ritter to share his powerful story of service, transformation, and resilience. Omar Ritter opens up about following in his family's footsteps as a Cavalry Scout, his combat experiences in Iraq, and the battle he faced after returning home—a life-altering brain tumor that led to his medical retirement. Together, Ed Parcaut and Omar Ritter dive into the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, the importance of seeking help for mental health, and how pride or lack of awareness can prevent vets from accessing critical di...

In this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Navy veteran and master communicator John Verrico. Listen in as John Verrico shares his inspiring journey from undisciplined young man to becoming the last master chief journalist in the Navy Reserve, and how his decades of service and unique experiences shaped his career in government public affairs and leadership coaching. John Verrico opens up about navigating independent duty on ships, handling everything from shipboard newspapers to media relations, his passion for amplifying the stories of everyday sailors, and the leadership lessons he learned from both supportive and challenging commanders...

In this powerful episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut welcomes Air Force veteran D Logan to share an inspiring journey from military service to career transformation. D Logan opens up about serving over twelve years in the Air Force, his dreams of flight, and the realities and challenges of transition after deployment—including navigating PTSD, mental health struggles, and advocating for VA benefits. Listen as D Logan describes rebuilding life post-service, finding a new calling in live event production, and the importance of community, resilience, and never giving up on yourself or your family. Learn practical advice about VA disab...

In this inspiring episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with former Navy SEAL, football player, and debut author Tom Hruby, alongside seasoned writer James Pomerantz. Together, they reveal the stories behind their new novel, "The Breacher's Playbook"—a thrilling saga loosely based on Tom's real-life experiences from the battlefield to Big Ten football and beyond. You'll hear Tom's honest account of why he joined the Navy after 9/11, pursued the challenge of SEAL training, and ultimately transitioned to Division I football at Northwestern University—all while juggling family life. The conversation explores how Tom and James met, the...

On this special Veterans Day episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Joshua Marsden, Army National Guard veteran and founder of ARM5 Formula, to discuss his unique journey from military service to entrepreneurial success. Joshua Marsden shares honest reflections about finding direction after struggling in college, what inspired him to join the Guard, and how the discipline and structure of military life put him back on track. You'll hear candid stories about the twists of fate that kept Joshua Marsden stateside, how his family shaped his path, and his transition from the corporate world into building...

Welcome to Helping The Brave with Ed Parcaut, where we share the real stories behind service, resilience, and transformation—on and off the battlefield. In this episode, Ed Parcaut sits down with Antoinette Lee, a Gulf War Army veteran, tech CEO, and adventure sports athlete. Antoinette opens up about her journey in the military, overcoming a traumatic brain injury, and building a successful career in tech against the odds. She shares candid insights on moving beyond labels, handling post-service challenges, and the importance of maintaining high standards no matter your background. Listeners will also learn about her inspiring work with th...

In this powerful episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Brandon Ashcraft, a U.S. Air Force veteran whose journey takes us from intense overseas tours to a decades-long fight for justice and healing within the military system. Brandon Ashcraft shares deeply personal stories about service, resilience, and the challenges faced upon returning home—from PTSD and service-related trauma to battling for his VA benefits and an upgraded discharge. He opens up about how past family tragedy shaped his life, the harsh realities many veterans face with the military bureaucracy, and his mission today: bridging the ga...

In this episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Chris Duprey, an Army veteran and leadership coach, for an open and inspiring conversation about military service, transition, and the surprising lessons that come with building a new life and career after the uniform comes off. Chris Duprey shares his story, from his early ambition to attend West Point, through his active duty years as an infantry officer—including command in the 82nd Airborne Division—and the tough choice to step away, prioritizing family over military advancement. Chris opens up about the unexpected challenges of transitioning to civilian work, the...

In this episode of "Helping The Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with Corey Brown and Sam Matthews for a candid conversation about life after military service, mental health, and the power of finding purpose. Corey Brown, an Army veteran with over 16 years of service, shares his journey from the battlefield to becoming a business leader and his mission to support fellow veterans and first responders struggling with mental health challenges. The trio discusses the importance of community, the stigmas surrounding asking for help, and how initiatives like their new show "Eat Your Feelings" combine cooking, comedy, and real talk...

Join host Ed Parcaut for an inspiring episode of Helping The Brave, where he sits down with Marine veteran Rich Brown to discuss service, sacrifice, and the challenges veterans face after returning home. Rich Brown shares his journey from enlisting as a teenager, deploying to Afghanistan and Iraq, and overcoming the life-altering effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The conversation dives deep into the realities of military service, transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of building community and purpose for veterans. This episode also explores important topics like veteran suicide prevention, access to VA benefits, and Rich Brown's mission-driven...

In this episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Lee Allen to talk about Lee's journey through military service, business, and writing. From growing up in an Army family and joining the 82nd Airborne, to his advice on navigating real estate and his successful transition into entrepreneurship, Lee shares insights and stories that show how military experiences shape life after service. Lee also opens up about his work as an author, including the inspiration behind his heartwarming Christmas books, and discusses the value of forgiveness and faith—both in literature and in life. The conversation touches on...

Marine Corps officer, reservist, dad of four, and corporate consultant Francisco Garza joins Ed Parcaut for a real conversation about transition, purpose, and what leadership really means. From high-stakes military missions to the uncertainty of leaving active duty during a pandemic, Francisco Garza opens up about the hard moments, the questions, and the value of community—whether it's in uniform or not. He shares candid insights on navigating military-to-civilian life, the balancing act of parenthood and career, the power of writing down your own life philosophy, and the surprising perks of the Marine Corps Reserves. Discover why personal responsibility, clarity of...

Tom Sauer – Resilience, Service & Recovery

In this powerful episode, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Tom Sauer, a Navy and Marine Corps veteran turned entrepreneur. Tom Sauer shares his inspiring journey from military service to building Miramar Health, a mental health and addiction recovery center for veterans. Learn how personal loss and experiences with addiction and suicide in the veteran community motivated Tom Sauer to make a difference. The conversation tackles challenges within the VA system, the critical importance of accessible care, and how Miramar Health is providing essential trauma support to those who served. Tune in for deep insights in...

From Combat Flight to Compassion: Jared Lilje's Mission Against Human Trafficking In this inspiring episode of Helping the Brave, hosts Ed Parcaut and Jared Lilje dive deep into Jared's remarkable journey from Air Force crew chief to pilot, and how his military experiences shaped his mission-driven approach to life. Listen as Jared shares how he transitioned from flying C5s and C17s to launching Jay Kristoff Handbags—a luxury brand with a purpose: fighting human trafficking by donating a portion of every sale to nonprofits chosen by customers. Discover unique stories from the cockpit, the challenges and rewards of se...

Join host Ed Parcaut as he welcomes U.S. Marine Corps veteran and author Rand Timmerman for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, brotherhood, and personal transformation. Rand shares powerful stories from his service with the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam, confronting PTSD and decades of alcoholism, and his inspiring journey hiking the Appalachian Trail in his seventies. Discover how Rand found purpose after combat, built a legal career, overcame adversity, and embarked on a spiritual passage with his brother. This candid episode offers real insights into veteran mental health, navigating the VA system, and the importance of finding hope...

Join host Ed Parcaut for an inspiring conversation with Army veteran Justin Baucum. Justin shares his unique journey of growing up in Hong Kong and China, serving in Army Special Forces, and successfully transitioning to the world of tech and advanced manufacturing. Discover what it’s really like to leave the military, navigate civilian life, and find purpose in new ventures. In this episode, Justin talks about his service, combat deployments, career pivots, and the lessons he learned—plus real-world advice for veterans considering their next chapter. You’ll hear insights on transitioning into corporate America, making the most of the GI...

In this insightful episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with retired Fleet Master Chief Raymond Kemp to discuss his remarkable 33-year journey in the U.S. Navy. Raymond shares his experiences with resilience, leadership, and breaking barriers—as the first Black Fleet Master Chief of Navy Europe and Navy Africa—and offers a candid look at the challenges he faced, from his early days in the delayed entry program to navigating racial issues and earning one of the Navy’s top enlisted ranks. Listen in as Ed and Raymond talk about finding purpose after military service, the im...

On this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with bestselling thriller authors and Navy veterans Brian Andrews and Jeff Wilson. Together, they share their incredible journeys from serving in the military to partnering as full-time writers behind major series like Jack Ryan for the Tom Clancy estate, Tier One, Sons of Valor, and Shepherds. Tune in to hear how they met (not in the Navy, but at a writers’ conference!), their approach to co-authoring novels, the ups and downs of transitioning from military service to creative entrepreneurship, and the importance of veteran community and support. Whether yo...

In this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with John Hillen, an Army veteran whose military career took him from patrolling the Iron Curtain on the night the Berlin Wall fell, to leading troops in the largest tank battle since World War II during Desert Storm. John shares stories of his family’s long Army tradition, his firsthand experience of historic events, and the lessons he learned about leadership, strategy, and the power of training. John and Ed dig into the importance of translating military skills into business and civilian life, with John reflecting on his tr...