Coming Home Well

In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes attorney James R. Burn, a seasoned advocate with decades of experience in veterans benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Offering a perspective rarely heard on veterans podcasts, one from a private attorney rather than a VA or state representative, James shares clear, practical insights into how veterans can successfully navigate two of the most complex benefits systems in the country.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the claims process, learn how to avoid unethical “claim sharks,” and discover why early, well-documented action is one of the best ways to ensure success.

Key Topics Discussed

• Differences between VA benefits and SSDI and how they overlap
• Why accredited representation matters and how to avoid claim sharks
• Updates on the PACT Act and Agent Orange presumptives
• Filing strong claims: documentation, timelines, and common mistakes
• How AI and technology are improving claims processing
• The truth about fraud and why it’s far less common than people think
• When veterans should seek legal help and how to verify accreditation
• Why it’s never too early to file a claim or ask questions

Contact Information

For a free consultation or to learn more about James R. Burn’s services visit abesbaumann.com

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

In this powerful episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with filmmaker Steven Grayhm and therapist Dr. Tara Consolino for an unforgettable conversation about the new veteran-focused film SHEEPDOG.

Together, they explore the real-life stories that inspired the movie, the importance of authentic representation of the veteran experience, and the healing that emerges when veterans are given space to speak, share, and reconnect.

Steven opens up about the responsibility of telling a truthful veteran story, while Dr. Consolino brings a therapist’s perspective on group therapy, post-traumatic stress, and the transformative journey toward post-traumatic growth. They also highlight the innovative work of Team House Studios, a production company that trains and employs veterans and Gold Star families in film.

This is more than a discussion about a movie, it’s a conversation about healing, purpose, and the power of storytelling to bring veterans home in a new way.

Resources

• SHEEPDOG – The Movie
• Team House Studios
• Vet Tix – Free tickets for veterans and first responders

Join the Mission

If this episode spoke to you, share it with a fellow veteran, friend, or family member. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the show. Follow us for updates and more stories of healing and homecoming.

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

Dr. Tyler Pieron talks with Michele Spiers from the American Council on Education (ACE) about how service members and veterans can make the most of their education benefits. They discuss translating military training into college credit, understanding the Joint Services Transcript, and using credit for prior learning to fast-track degree completion.

🪖 Key Highlights

• How ACE evaluates military and industry training for college credit
• Making the most of the Joint Services Transcript and CCAF
• Using CLEP, DSST, and language exams to earn extra credit
• Organizing transcripts and understanding transfer policies
• Resources for veterans—education centers, virtual counselors, and Student Veterans of America
• Dr. Pieron’s personal education journey from service to PhD

✅ Takeaways

• Gather all transcripts before applying
• Use the ACE Military Guide to identify credit opportunities
• Take national exams to accelerate progress
• Connect with veteran organizations and advisors
• Visit acenet.edu for tools and resources

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes Craig Robbins, CEO of MilitaryHire.com and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, to talk about the challenges and opportunities veterans face when transitioning into civilian careers. Craig shares his journey from the Marine Corps to leading a major veteran-focused hiring platform, and offers practical advice for job seekers navigating resumes, networking, and modern job boards.

What You’ll Learn

• Craig’s transition story and the mission of Military Hire
• How the platform connects veterans and employers
• New features like AI job matching and “Fill in the Gaps”
• Resume and networking tips that actually work
• Common myths about the veteran job search
• What the Red Balloon partnership means for the community

Top Takeaways

• Build a strong resume and tailor each application
• Use MilitaryHire.com—no premium upsells for candidates
• Expect a 2–3 month job search and stay consistent
• Combine networking + online applications for the best results

Resources

• MilitaryHire.com
• RedBalloon.work

Call to Action

If you’re a veteran, service member, or military spouse seeking your next step, create your free profile at MilitaryHire.com. Employers looking for top military talent can connect there as well.

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

Host Dr. Tyler Pieron speaks with Tony DeMaio, founder of Helping Heroes USA, about suicide prevention for veterans and first responders. Tony shares his journey from Project Hero to launching Helping Heroes USA, and how communities—not just professionals—can step up to save lives.

Highlights

• The impact of suicide on families and communities
• How isolation fuels risk—and why connection matters
• Recognizing warning signs and starting supportive conversations
• The role of local organizations like American Legion posts and fire stations
• Helping Heroes USA’s mission to train “support angels” in every community
• Tony’s upcoming book It’s a Silent Battle and free webinars

Guest Bio

Tony DeMaio is the founder and CEO of Helping Heroes USA, dedicated to equipping everyday people with tools to support those at risk of suicide.

Resources

• helpingheroesusa.org
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (press 1 for veterans)

Be sure to subscribe and share!

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with renowned international relations scholar Dale Copeland to unpack the evolving dynamics of US-China relations through the lens of history, economics, and strategic theory.

Drawing from his influential book A World Safe for Commerce, Copeland introduces listeners to his groundbreaking concept of dynamic realism—a framework that blends liberal and realist theories to explore the critical question: Does trade promote peace or conflict among great powers?

Together, they discuss:

• 📚 The ongoing debate between liberal and realist views on trade and conflict
• 🔍 How dynamic realism reframes great power competition
• 🇨🇳 China's growing reliance on global trade and internal political pressures
• ⚔️ Military strategy and economic dependency in shaping foreign policy
• 🪨 The strategic significance of rare earth minerals and resource control
• 🔮 Predictions for the future trajectory of US-China relations

Subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

#USChinaRelations #ForeignPolicy #DaleCopeland #Geopolitics #InternationalTrade #ComingHomeWell #DynamicRealism #GreatPowerCompetition #RareEarths #GlobalStrategy

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

In this enlightening episode of Coming Home Well, host Tyler Pieron sits down with Doug Lynam, a man whose life journey defies convention. From growing up in a wealthy family to embracing the hippie lifestyle, serving as a U.S. Marine, spending 20 years as a Benedictine monk, and ultimately becoming a financial advisor, Doug shares powerful insights on navigating the complex relationship between money and meaning.

Doug draws from his books Taming Your Money Monster and From Monk to Money Manager to offer practical financial advice grounded in deep psychological wisdom. He discusses how veterans can overcome common financial challenges and how understanding your inner "money monster" can transform your financial health and emotional well-being.

Connect with Doug: douglynam.com

👉 Subscribe & Support the Show:

If you found this episode valuable, please rate, review, and share Coming Home Well. Your support helps us bring more insightful conversations to veterans and their communities.

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."

In this episode of the Coming Home Well podcast, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Stephanie Samuels, founder and director of Copline—a crucial support hotline for law enforcement officers and their families. Together, they explore the unique challenges first responders face, the significance of mental health resources, and how Copline provides a safe, confidential space for officers in need. Tune in to hear how this lifeline is breaking down barriers and making a lasting impact in the law enforcement community.

https://www.copline.org/

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government."

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring parallel narratives of military veterans returning home from their tours of duty and multiple myeloma patients facing their relentless battles for survival. We explore both groups' challenges, including emotional, mental, and physical struggles, as they strive for healing and remission.

Join us as we highlight the collaboration between Coming Home Well and the Kut2ThaChase Foundation for the project "Reclaiming Life: A Cancer Story of Hope," an upcoming documentary which aims to raise awareness and support for these courageous individuals. The film seeks to be a catalyst for meaningful conversation about life after cancer and the remarkable journey of the group as they navigate Camino de Santiago to inspire hope, foster understanding, and generate support for both groups. Ultimately, "Reclaiming Life" serves as a reminder that healing is a journey taken one step at a time, and that together, we can reclaim our lives and embrace the promise of a brighter future.

Special Guest: Gregory Proctor

- Coming Home Well: https://cominghomewell.com/

- Kut2ThaChase Foundation: https://k2tcpodcast.com/

- "Reclaiming Life: A Cancer Story of Hope" Project: https://reclaiming-life.com

- Relevant mental health resources and support networks for veterans and cancer patients.

Connect with Us:

- Follow us on social media: FB Group Reclaiming Life: Reclaim, Rise & Thrive

- Join our community for updates and support:

[website] https://reclaiming-life.com/

[donations] https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/join-the-movement-reclaiming-life-a-cancer-story-of-hope

- Share your thoughts and experiences with us by emailing [email protected].

- Interested in learning more about our guest Gregory O. Proctor, please visit https://gregoryoproctor.com or to purchase his book FAITH, STRENGTH, AND COURAGE: A Memoir of Overcoming Adversity & Embracing Life's Journey, please visit https://a.co/d/ajX5IA3

Call to Action:

If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, donate, rate, and review our podcast. Share it with your friends and family to help us spread the message of hope and resilience. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of veterans and cancer patients. 

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government."

Dr. Tyler Pieron engages in a heartfelt conversation with poet Jehanne Dubrow, who shares her unique perspective as a military spouse and author of three poetry collections focused on the military experience. Jehanne discusses her creative process, the challenges of maintaining a long-distance marriage, and how her poetry serves as a voice for military spouses. Join us for an enlightening discussion that blends personal narratives with the art of poetry, and discover how art can help process complex emotions.

jehannedubrow.com

Disclaimer:

"The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government."