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The story starts where most stay quiet: a violent childhood, a foster system built on survival, and a hunger to belong somewhere that demanded excellence. Daniel Odell found that place in the Army—even in a role many dismiss. As a cook in Iraq, he saw how a hot meal and a few kind words could calm fear. Volunteering for flights, he witnessed medevac shock up close, carrying home images that didn’t fade when the war quieted. 

 Back in the States, ambition collided with injury. A fall during advanced training damaged his spine, and he hid the pain to avoid letting others down. A leader’s blunt warning—that someone could die picking up his slack—reset his view of duty. Recovery was slow and dark: therapies, heavy meds, and a mind searching for escape. A surgeon offered only a small chance of improvement, but that tiny gain broke the spiral. Then came a partner with paws—a white standard poodle with a green “hat,” trained to help and impossible to ignore—who pushed Daniel back into the world. 

What finally stopped the noose was a fellow veteran’s line: taking his life would dishonor those who never made it home. That truth anchors Daniel’s mission now. We explore how he built Motafate (motivate.com), turned recovery into purposeful content, and scaled service through social media. From PTSD tools and service-dog training to adapting life around chronic pain, this episode guides veterans and civilians through trauma and transition. We also share the Today Show surprise and the communities—American Legion, VFW, church groups—where healing grows. 

 If you’ve ever felt alone after trauma, this conversation offers practical steps, not slogans. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—what small action will you choose today? 

The stories and opinions shared on Stories of Service are told in each guest’s own words. They reflect personal experiences, memories, and perspectives. While every effort is made to present these stories respectfully and authentically, Stories of Service does not verify the accuracy or completeness of every statement. The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the host, producers, or affiliates.

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