By Operation Red Wings Foundation
5
33 ratings
The podcast currently has 26 episodes available.
In this powerful episode of The Unseen Journey, you will hear a heartfelt conversation with a fellow team leader from the Operation Red Wings Foundation. They explore the guest's emotional journey of overcoming the invisible wounds of military service, from the frustration of lost medical records to finding healing through the Foundation's retreats. This episode takes a dive into the importance of peer support, the impact of military sexual trauma (MST), and the transformative power of self-care in the healing process.
Key Points:
- [0:00] - Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
The host introduces the episode, highlighting the mission of the Operation Red Wings Foundation, which offers free retreats for Veterans and their families.
- [6:14] - A Veteran’s Service and Transition
The guest shares their story of military service and the challenges they faced transitioning back to civilian life, including lost medical records.
- [12:01] - The Struggles of Reporting MST
A discussion on the difficulties veterans face when reporting military sexual trauma, and the importance of shifting the narrative from victims to survivors.
- [16:32] - Resilience in the Face of Adversity
The guest reflects on their journey of dealing with anger and depression, and how they found strength in their spirituality and community.
- [26:17] - Life-Changing Experience at RW Foundation Retreat
Insights into how attending an Operation Red Wings retreat helped the guest release long-held emotions and begin their healing journey.
Quotable Moments:
[6:49] “What an interesting journey and story of perseverance...just never quitting.” - Guy
[16:56] “Your spirituality is one of your unseen elements, and it gave you such strength and perseverance.” - Guy
[31:03] “We can do self-care, and once we've done self-care, then we can go out and be selfless.” - Guy
Links Mentioned:
Operation Red Wings Foundation: https://www.redwingsfoundation.org
Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Unseen Journey. If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support, consider exploring the retreats offered by Operation Red Wings Foundation. These experiences have been life-changing for many, providing a space for healing and connection. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode to help us reach more veterans in need of support.
In this episode of *The Unseen Journey, host Guy sits down with special guest Brian, a USMC Veteran deeply involved in the Veterans Yoga Project and Operation Red Wings Foundation. Brian shares his unique journey from military service to becoming a yoga advocate, emphasizing the crucial role of gratitude and mindfulness in healing trauma. The discussion delves into how simple daily practices like yoga can significantly impact Veterans' mental and emotional well-being. Brian also highlights the importance of caregiver awareness and the parallels between military training and yoga in managing stress responses. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health, trauma recovery, and holistic practices.
Key Points:
- [0:00] Introduction and Mission
Guy welcomes Brian, discussing the challenges they've faced in getting him on the show and introduces the Operation Red Wing Foundation and Veterans Yoga Project.
- [0:57] Brian's Background and the Transition to Yoga
Brian shares his military background and how he discovered yoga as a tool for healing and balance.
- [8:23] The Caregiver's Role in Trauma Recovery
Discussion on caregiver burnout, secondary trauma, and the challenges caregivers face in supporting Veterans.
- [9:34] The Warrior's Balance: From Combat to Yoga
Brian draws parallels between ancient warriors' practices and modern Veterans using yoga to balance the warrior mindset with mindfulness.
- [18:15] The Power of Gratitude in Recovery
Brian explains why gratitude is the most powerful element of yoga and how it helps Veterans deal with moral injuries and trauma.
- [32:54] Response vs. Reaction: A Vital Distinction
Insightful discussion on how yoga helps Veterans shift from reactionary responses to mindful, processed responses in high-stress situations.
- [39:11] Closing Thoughts and Resources
Guy and Brian wrap up the conversation, discussing the importance of mindfulness in Veterans' lives and providing resources for listeners.
Quotable Moments:
[9:11] "Trauma equals trauma... Sometimes I just need space, and permission to be human." - Guy
[10:34] "Even the samurai did calligraphy to balance the warrior within them." -Guy
[18:45] "Gratitude lights us up to a ten on our own, but when someone else brings it to us, it lights us up to a hundred." - Brian
Links Mentioned:
This episode highlighted the profound impact yoga and gratitude can have on veterans recovering from trauma. We encourage our listeners to explore the resources mentioned, especially if you or someone you know could benefit from these practices. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your community.
Today, we welcome back Cheryl, a previous guest who shares her inspiring journey from a military spouse to a yoga instructor helping Veterans heal through the power of yoga. Cheryl's story is one of resilience, transformation, and finding peace through physical and emotional recovery. Listen as we discuss how yoga became a sanctuary amidst the chaos of military life. We discover the mind-body connection, the importance of releasing stored trauma, and the unique challenges veterans face when returning to civilian life. Cheryl also shares her experiences teaching yoga to Soldiers, the unexpected reactions, and the profound transformations she witnesses.
Key Points:
[01:01] - Finding Yoga:
How yoga became Cheryl's sanctuary.
[02:29] - Becoming a Teacher:
Transitioning from yoga student to instructor.
[05:16] - Healing Trauma:
Releasing stored trauma through yoga.
[10:05] - Emotional Release:
The emotional journey of veterans in yoga.
[13:06] - Cheryl's Insights:
Personal experiences and trauma analogies.
[18:20] - Community Support:
Importance of community in the healing process.
[24:13] - Practical Tips:
Advice for veterans and families on finding normalcy.
[35:20] - Yoga Techniques:
Cheryl’s methods for fostering healing in veterans.
Quotable Moments:
"Trauma is stored in the body, and through yoga, we can release it and find healing." - Cheryl
"You have to make the decision to stand up and walk on; that's life with trauma." - Cheryl
"Feeling normal again comes from connecting with others who have shared similar experiences." - Guy
Links & Resources:
Thank you for tuning into this episode of The Unseen Journey. If you found Cheryl’s story as inspiring as we did, please reach down and hit that like and subscribe button. Your support helps us reach more veterans and their families.
In this episode, we sit down with Laney Rosenzweig, a dedicated therapist with a deep passion for helping Veterans heal from invisible wounds. Lainey shares her journey into the counseling field, the unique aspects of ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), and the profound impact it has had on both Veterans and their families. We dive into personal stories, the transformative power of therapy, and the importance of addressing trauma in a holistic manner.
Key Points:
- [00:00] - Introduction to The Unseen Journey and our guest.
- [01:21] - Lainey discusses her background and what led her to counseling.
- [09:29] - Personal experience with EMDR and ART therapy.
- [14:34] - The importance of addressing trauma for both Veterans and their spouses.
- [20:24] - Overview of ART therapy and its benefits over traditional methods.
- [27:16] - The impact of trauma therapy on physical health and family dynamics.
- [35:02] - Practical tips for integrating therapy into daily life.
- [39:55] - Positive side effects of ART and its role in a holistic healing process.
- [44:00] - Lainey shares advice for her younger self, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience.
Links Mentioned:
Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach more Veterans and provide them with the resources they need. Don't forget to check out Operation Red Wings Foundation and consider contributing to support their mission. Until next time, take care!
In this episode of "The Unseen Journey," we welcome back Cheryl, a yoga instructor and veteran supporter, who shares her journey of integrating yoga into her life and how it has become a powerful tool for healing trauma. Cheryl discusses her experiences teaching yoga to veterans, the challenges and breakthroughs they've faced, and the importance of body-mind connection in overcoming trauma. We touch on the concept of physical and emotional traumas being stored in the body and the transformative power of yoga in releasing these buried feelings. This conversation provides deep insights into the resilience and strength required to navigate life after trauma and the importance of community and support systems.
Key Points:
- [0:00] - Introduction to the episode and welcoming Cheryl back.
- [1:15] - Cheryl shares her early experiences with yoga and how it became a part of her life.
- [2:01] - Discussing Cheryl's journey as a yoga instructor and her work with veterans.
- [4:22] - The impact of yoga on veterans and the emotional releases experienced during sessions.
- [6:04] - Comparison of yoga and accelerated resolution therapy in processing trauma.
- [8:08] - Cheryl's personal experiences with trauma and the metaphor of living on a new planet.
- [12:02] - Coping mechanisms and the importance of embracing one's traumatic memories.
- [17:00] - The importance of external support systems and the role of accountability partners.
- [27:00] - The significance of community and shared experiences in healing.
Links Mentioned:
Thank you for tuning in to this insightful episode with Cheryl. If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, follow, and share it with others. Don't forget to leave a comment; the algorithm loves it! If you're a veteran or a supporter, consider exploring the retreat opportunities offered by the Operation Red Wings Foundation to embark on your own healing journey. Until next time, take care.
Welcome back to another impactful episode of The Unseen Journey, a podcast dedicated to supporting Veterans and their families as they transition from military to civilian life. Today we have a very special guest, Paul Berry from Veterans Bridge Home. Join us as Paul discusses his experiences in the military, the often difficult transition to civilian life, and how Veterans Bridge Home is making a difference. We explore the significance of community, the power of small acts of kindness, and practical advice for veterans seeking to find their footing after service. This episode is packed with insights, and actionable tips for anyone connected to the Veteran community.
Key Points:
- [0:00] - Introduction to *The Unseen Journey* and today’s guest, Paul Berry.
- [1:08] - Paul shares his military journey and transition to civilian life.
- [4:18] - Discussing the importance of community and connection for veterans.
- [7:09] - Paul's experiences in Afghanistan and the camaraderie among service members.
- [9:10] - The role of Veterans Bridge Home in supporting transitioning veterans.
- [15:14] - Addressing the isolation veterans often feel post-service.
- [20:03] - Practical advice on mental and emotional health for veterans.
- [30:49] - The impact of non-profits and advocacy groups in veterans’ lives.
- [43:09] - Paul reflects on his 30-year service and what motivated him.
- [51:04] - Closing thoughts and a reminder to seek support and community.
Links Mentioned:
- [Operation Red Wings Foundation](https://www.redwingsfoundation.org) - Offering free retreats for veterans and their families.
- [Veterans Bridge Home](https://veteransbridgehome.org) - Providing resources and support for transitioning veterans.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Unseen Journey. If you enjoyed the conversation, please rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more veterans and their families. Remember, every veteran's journey is unique, but none have to walk it alone. Until next time, take care and stay connected.
Welcome back to *The Unseen Journey*, a podcast dedicated to supporting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. In this episode, we have a truly inspiring guest, Robert Elliott. Robert shares his incredible journey from serving in the Marine Corps to becoming a successful farmer and founder of the Veterans Farm of North Carolina. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and dedication to helping fellow veterans find purpose and healing through agriculture.
Join us as Robert discusses the challenges he faced transitioning from military to civilian life, the pivotal moments that led him to farming, and the development of his nonprofit that supports veterans in agriculture. We also talk about the unique struggles veterans face during their transition and how programs like Robert's are making a significant impact in suicide prevention and community building. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of finding new purpose after service.
Key Points:
- [00:47] - Introduction of Robert Elliott and his background.
- [02:10] - Robert’s journey from the Marine Corps to farming.
- [10:34] - Challenges faced during the transition to civilian life.
- [17:02] - The inception and growth of Veterans Farm of North Carolina.
- [23:34] - The importance of purpose and community for veterans.
- [32:19] - Advice for veterans on utilizing VA benefits.
- [41:10] - Comprehensive overview of the agricultural training program.
- [49:05] - The impact of Robert’s program on veteran suicide prevention.
Links Mentioned:
- [Operation Red Wings Foundation](https://www.orwfoundation.org) - Learn more about the retreats and resources available for veterans.
- [Veterans Farm of North Carolina](https://www.veteransfarmnc.org) - Discover how Robert's nonprofit is making a difference in the lives of veterans through agriculture.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Unseen Journey. If you enjoyed the conversation, please remember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us reach more listeners and make a bigger impact. For more information about our work and upcoming episodes, visit our website and join our community. Until next time, take care!
Welcome to another episode of The Unseen Journey, a captivating podcast dedicated to uplifting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. Join us as we welcome the incredible Cheryl and dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of first deployment families. Together, they explore the intricate tapestry of trauma recovery post-deployment, unraveling the impact on family dynamics and uncovering powerful coping mechanisms. Get ready for an insightful conversation that delves into the importance of understanding trauma and the resilient spirit that guides us through life's toughest challenges.
Key Points:
Support for Veterans:
The podcast aims to provide support and resources for veterans and their families as they navigate life after military service.
Mental Health and Resilience:
The discussion touches on invisible wounds, mental health challenges, and strategies for resilience among veterans and their families.
Parenting and Blind Spots:
Cheryl discusses parenting challenges, the importance of creating safe spaces for growth and learning, and addressing blind spots in personal development.
Trauma and Coping:
Personal experiences of trauma post-deployment are shared, including coping mechanisms like therapy and recognizing blind spots in behavior.
Trauma Recovery:
The conversation revolves around the host's journey through trauma recovery post-deployment, highlighting experiences of hyper-vigilance, coping mechanisms, and the impact on family life.
Supportive Spouse:
The discussion emphasizes the role of a supportive spouse in understanding and navigating trauma-related behaviors and challenges, highlighting the importance of communication and empathy.
Navigating Protocols and Education:
The episode touches on challenges in navigating protocols and education around trauma, including experiences in therapy, dialogue with schools regarding safety drills, and the importance of veteran-led support and resources.
Quotable Moments:
"The military is a second language because it really does have its own dialog.”
"Making a safe space to take risks, have opportunities for failure, and learn from that failure is crucial for growth.”
"Addressing blind spots allows us to confront who we are and who we want to be, especially in parenting roles."
Welcome to The Unseen Journey, a podcast dedicated to supporting veterans and their families as they navigate life after the military. In this episode, host Guy introduces special guest Tonja, who shares her experiences with the Alpha Stim device and its impact on mental health and well-being. They also get into the various applications of the Alpha Stim, its benefits, and how it has helped veterans manage conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia.
Key Points:
Introduction to Alpha Stim:
The episode begins with a brief introduction to The Unseen Journey podcast, highlighting its focus on mental health support for veterans. Guy introduces Tonja, who shares her background and experiences with the Alpha Stim device.
Alpha Stim Experience:
Tonja describes her initial experience with the Alpha Stim during an individual retreat and how it took several sessions to find the right settings for her. She emphasizes the device's impact on improving her sleep quality and reducing headaches.
Benefits and Applications:
The conversation expands to discuss the broader benefits of the Alpha Stim, including its efficacy in managing anxiety, chronic pain, and other related conditions. Tonja shares personal anecdotes and insights into how the device has positively influenced her daily life and family dynamics.
Accessibility and Usage:
Tonja highlights the accessibility of the Alpha Stim through programs like Operation Red Wings Foundation and its availability for veterans through healthcare providers like the VA. She also shares tips on using the device effectively in different settings, such as during travel or before stressful events like exams.
Versatility of Alpha Stim:
Tonja emphasizes the versatility of the Alpha Stim device, mentioning that it can be worn on the head or clipped onto clothing, making it convenient for use in various settings. She shares personal experiences of using it as a passenger in a car, highlighting its ease of use and effectiveness in preventing drowsiness without falling asleep at the wheel.
Consistency and Benefits:
Tonja stresses the importance of consistent use of the Alpha Stim for optimal results, noting that gradual changes over time contribute to improved energy levels and reduced anxiety. She shares insights into how self-care practices like using the Alpha Stim can enhance overall well-being and enable individuals to show up positively in their relationships and daily activities.
Quotable Moments:
"The Alpha Stim was a game-changer for me. It improved my sleep quality and reduced the frequency of headaches."
"Consistent use of the Alpha Stim has positively impacted my next-day energy levels and overall well-being.”
"Using the Alpha Stim has allowed me to show up more positively for my family, reducing the impact of my mental health challenges on our daily lives."
Links Mentioned:
https://www.orwfoundation.org
In this episode, host Guy introduces special guest Kristy to discuss Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and its benefits for Veterans and others. They explore the technology, treatment process, and funding options, shedding light on an alternative approach to healing and wellness. Join us for valuable insights into HBOT and its potential impact on Veterans' health and well-being, and a broader conversation about alternative healing approaches.
Key Points:
Exploring HBOT Therapy:
The discussion delves into the concept of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, the benefits, and the treatment process, including the use of medical oxygen and masks.
Funding and Accessibility:
Guy and Kristy discuss funding options for HBOT treatments, including TRICARE and VA referrals, making it accessible to Veterans in different states.
Alternative Healing Approaches:
The conversation touches on the importance of exploring alternative therapies beyond medications, highlighting the potential benefits for Veterans' overall well-being.
Approved Conditions for Chamber Treatment:
The conversation delves into the approved conditions for HBOT treatments, exploring the criteria and protocols for accessing this life-changing therapy.
Holistic Benefits:
Kristy and Guy discuss the holistic benefits of HBOT, ranging from brain health to nerve regeneration and wound healing, emphasizing the importance of a multi-faceted approach to wellness.
Discovering Different Healing Approaches:
The discussion extends to alternative healing approaches beyond medications, including Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Alpha-Stim, highlighting the diverse options available for Veterans' well-being.
Frequency and Protocol:
Questions about the frequency of HBOT treatments and their impact on daily life are addressed, providing insights into the practical aspects of incorporating this therapy into one's routine.
Quotable Moments:
"There are a lot of Veterans who get on pills, but exploring alternative therapies can be really beneficial."
"Approaching problems with the body requires multiple aspects. Adding one more option to the kit bag for healing is awesome.”
Links Mentioned:
https://www.orwfoundation.org
https://hbot4heroes.org/
The podcast currently has 26 episodes available.
41 Listeners
7 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
0 Listeners
39 Listeners
0 Listeners