Conversations With A Vet

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Daniel, an Air Force veteran, award-winning country music artist, and proud supporter of the military community. Ryan shares his journey from serving as a munitions systems technician in the U.S. Air Force to performing around the world with the elite Tops in Blue entertainment program, where he entertained troops and civilians across 20 countries.

After a decade of military service, Ryan pursued his lifelong passion for music, building a successful career as an independent country recording artist. Inducted into the Indie Music Hall of Fame and recognized with numerous music industry awards, Ryan has used his platform to tell stories that resonate with veterans, service members, and everyday Americans.

Join us as Ryan reflects on military life, the transition to civilian success, the inspiration behind his music, and the powerful connection between service, patriotism, and storytelling. This is a conversation about resilience, purpose, and following your passion while never forgetting where you came from.

Seth Smith is a 24‑year Army Veteran and a driving force behind Mind Over Land, a North Carolina‑based nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans reconnect with the outdoors through vehicle‑based overlanding adventures. As a co‑founder and trip leader, Seth brings deep military experience, a passion for nature, and a commitment to building camaraderie among veterans who are navigating life after service. His work helps create meaningful outdoor experiences that support healing, community, and personal growth.

Brian brings a straight‑shooting, down‑to‑earth Army perspective to the conversation. He talks about his time in service, the people who shaped him, and the lessons that stuck long after the uniform came off. His stories are honest, relatable, and full of the kind of real‑world experience you only get from someone who’s lived the military life for years.

Perry talks about his time in the Navy National Guard, the people who shaped his journey, and the lessons that stuck with him. His stories are real, relaxed, and straight from someone who’s put on the uniform.

From putting on the uniform to finding her place beyond it, Army Veteran Suzie Singleton takes us through a journey of service, challenges, memories, and the experiences that helped shape the woman she is today. Suzie opens up about life in the Army, the lessons that stayed with her, and what it really means to carry your military experience with you long after the uniform comes off.

Barry Apland is a United States Marine Corps veteran whose story reflects the discipline, resilience, and quiet professionalism forged in service. His time in the Marines shaped a mindset built on accountability, mission focus, and the ability to stay steady under pressure. On the podcast, Barry brings the grounded perspective of a Marine who lived the values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Army Ranger and Green Beret Lee Deckelman joins us to share an extraordinary journey from the battlefield to mindfulness. Drawing from his experiences as a combat veteran and the story behind his book, Internal Volume: Where a Monster and Mindfulness Become One!, Lee talks openly about confronting the “monster” within, finding a new path through mindfulness and yoga, and discovering that life after the battlefield can lead to an entirely new mission.

Navy Veteran Thomas West shares his experiences from military service, the lessons that shaped his life, and the journey from serving his country to serving his community. In this conversation, Thomas reflects on his time in the Navy, the challenges and memories that stayed with him, and what being a veteran means today.

Phil LaPrad is a Vietnam-era U.S. veteran and a dedicated advocate for fellow veterans. As Mobility Chairman for the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 1089 in Rutherford County, he leads volunteer efforts to provide and install wheelchair ramps, chair lifts, hospital beds, mobility scooters, and other accessibility equipment for veterans and their families at no cost. Through his continued service, LaPrad has helped improve the independence and quality of life of countless veterans in Middle Tennessee, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to serving others.

Retired Army colonel, combat veteran, former battalion commander and the author of "Unshaken Resolve" joins Conversations With A Vet to talk about his military journey across 23 years of service and how he is passing on his leadership knowledge to the next generation of leaders.