Show Notes:

John Spencer shared his journey from enlisting in the Army in 1967 to his 26-year career, including service in the 82nd Airborne Division and overseas deployments. He discussed the impact of his military service on his personal and professional life. John also revealed his adoption at age six and his subsequent search for his biological family, which led to reconnecting with his five siblings. He detailed the challenges and breakthroughs in his genealogical research, including using DNA and professional help. John emphasized the importance of persistence and the profound impact of reconnecting with his biological family, despite initial frustrations.

Sponsored by F1 for Help

This episode is proudly sponsored by F1 for Help, providing expert computer repair and support in Kootenai County for over 20 years. Call (208) 687-0183 or visit www.f1forhelp.net for reliable service and a 10% discount for veterans and first responders.

Show Notes:
In this episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana welcomes guest Ron Deady, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel and veteran pilot. Ron shares his extensive experiences from his 22-year military career, which includes flying various aircraft during the Vietnam War and his involvement in strategic air command operations with nuclear weapons. He reflects on the psychological impacts of warfare, the moral complexities of military actions, and the critical importance of veteran communities in coping with past experiences. Ron emphasizes the transformative and often challenging aspects of military service, from the intense responsibilities of handling nuclear weapons to the personal toll it takes on family and personal life. The conversation deeply explores how shared experiences forge strong bonds among veterans, vital for their emotional support and understanding.

Sponsored by F1 for Help

This episode is proudly sponsored by F1 for Help, providing expert computer repair and support in Kootenai County for over 20 years. Call (208) 687-0183 or visit www.f1forhelp.net for reliable service and a 10% discount for veterans and first responders.

In this episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana talks with Gulf War veteran and professional photographer Richard Sherman about his six-year journey to honor military heroes through his book, Never Home: Remembering the Military Heroes Who Never Returned. Richard shares poignant stories from his visits to 23 overseas cemeteries, reflecting on the profound sacrifice of service members and how their legacies can inspire future generations. The conversation highlights Richard's military experiences, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of veterans sharing their stories to preserve history and foster understanding.

Show Notes

Introduction: Ed shares a personal story about Thanksgiving and the camaraderie food creates within The Veterans Club.

Guest Spotlight: Richard Sherman, Navy veteran, author, and photographer, discusses his military service and transition to civilian life.

The Book: Insights into Never Home, a photographic journey honoring fallen heroes and their stories, featuring 54 biographies from World War I and II.

Key Takeaways:

• Lessons learned during service and their application in civilian life.
• The importance of preserving veterans' stories for future generations.
• Encouragement for veterans to start projects to share their unique perspectives.
• Call to Action: Visit NeverHomeHeroes.com to purchase Richard's book and learn more about his work.

Link to the book:  www.neverhomeheroes.com

About Our Guest:

I received my commission from Navy OCS in 1989. I served with Tacron-21 as part of two Marine Amphibious Groups during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf and Eastern Mediterranean. I was then the Intel Officer at VF-43, an adversary squadron based out of Norfolk, VA. I left active duty after 4 years and while getting my MBA at Georgetown University, served at the Pentagon at an Intelligence Watch Center. I served 4 years on active duty and nearly 3 years in the Reserves.

The Veterans Club seeks partners committed to our mission of preventing suicide among veterans and first responders. To explore sponsorship opportunities and learn how your support can make a lasting impact, please contact Ed Bejarana at (208) 209-7170 or email [email protected]. Join us in this vital cause.

Show Notes:
In this enlightening episode of the Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana discusses leadership and resilience with guest Jay Patterson, a veteran and leadership expert. Ed opens by reflecting on the omnipresence of media and its impact on perceptions of leadership, setting the stage for a deeper conversation about veterans' roles in community and leadership. Jay shares his tumultuous youth and how joining the Navy helped him redirect his life towards positive contributions. He recounts experiences from his service, emphasizing the leadership skills and resilience developed during his time in the Navy, particularly on submarines. Post-service, Jay applies these skills to aid businesses and individuals in growth and leadership development through his work at the Wolf Pack Leadership Institute.

About Our Guest:

I am Jay Patterson, an experienced Business Growth Architect and founder of the Wolf Pack Leadership Institute. Recognizing the mission and depth of "The Veterans Club Podcast," I am eager to share insights on leadership and growth, offering actionable strategies that can aid veterans in navigating change and fostering community connectivity.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-patterson/ 

Contact Jay:  [email protected]

In this heartfelt episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana sits down with Dave, a retired fire captain from San Bernardino County and former police officer with Coeur d'Alene PD. Dave’s journey is an inspiring testament to the dedication and resilience found in first responders and veterans. He opens up about his transition from aspiring high school teacher to a 15-year career in the fire service and then moving into law enforcement. Through stories of harrowing rescues, the challenges of high call volumes, and personal trials, Dave shares insights that only someone who’s lived through these moments can provide.

Key Takeaways:

• Journey into Service: Dave recounts how he was inspired by his brother-in-law and how his passion for community involvement led him to fire service and later to law enforcement.
• Memorable Experiences: He shares the impactful story of saving a 12-year-old girl and how moments like these reinforced his purpose.
• Camaraderie and Brotherhood: The deep bonds formed while working in high-stress environments provided Dave with a support system unlike any other.
• Challenges in Service: He discusses the mental and emotional toll of serving, the impact of political and resource limitations, and dealing with personal and professional loss.
• Life After Service: Dave talks about channeling his service mindset into real estate, working with a team of former first responders to build a community-first approach.
• Advice for Veterans: Dave stresses the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose and staying connected with those who share similar experiences, urging veterans to use their unique skill set to continue contributing to their communities.

Connect with Dave: For listeners looking to relocate to North Idaho or wanting to learn more about Dave’s community-driven real estate work, check out the North Idaho Experience podcast and YouTube channel.

Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, subscribe and share it with a fellow veteran or first responder. Your story matters, and so does theirs. Join us in building connections that empower and uplift the veteran community.

Host: Ed Bejarana
Guest: Karen, Retired LAPD Officer

Summary:
In this inspiring episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana sits down with Karen, a retired LAPD officer whose journey into law enforcement started unexpectedly. Karen shares her unique story, beginning with an accidental test-taking experience that led to a 22-year career as a police officer. Her stories provide an inside look at the challenges, camaraderie, and critical moments that shaped her as an officer and continue to inspire her commitment to community service.

Key Discussion Points:

• The Unexpected Start: Karen recalls how a casual trip to the mall with a friend turned into a life-altering decision when she took the LAPD written test on a whim.
• First Challenges on the Job: Highlights her first night on duty during Halloween and how she handled a confrontation with courage and quick thinking.
• Building Skills and Resilience: Discusses the development of essential skills like "verbal judo" for effective de-escalation and communication.
• Memorable Stories of Impact: Shares heartfelt anecdotes, including helping a woman named Sonia, who turned her life around, and the profound gratitude she received years later.
• Lessons Learned: Talks about the deep-rooted sense of service and the enduring lessons from her career that she applies to her life today.
• Transition to Civilian Life and Continued Service: Describes how her commitment to helping others led her to volunteer work and involvement in community programs post-retirement.
• Encouragement for Others: Karen's advice for those considering law enforcement as a career, emphasizing the importance of doing it for the right reasons.
• Patriot Coffee Group: Karen shares her experiences with the Patriot Coffee group, encouraging other veterans and first responders to join community gatherings for support and camaraderie.

Takeaways: Karen’s story highlights that serving others, both in and out of uniform, fosters a profound sense of purpose and connection. Her journey from an accidental recruit to a veteran officer and community leader is a testament to resilience, compassion, and dedication.

Call to Action: Join the conversation and community! If you’re a veteran or first responder, consider joining or starting a Patriot Coffee group in your area. Learn more at TheVeteransClub.org or reach out at [email protected] for support and guidance on getting started.

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to The Veterans Club Podcast for more powerful stories and insights.
• Share this episode with friends or fellow veterans who may need encouragement or a sense of connection.

Closing Note: “Show up 100% every day, do the best you can, and remember that success is about finishing well.” – Karen

Stay Veteran Strong!

Call-to-Action for Sponsors:
Support The Veterans Club Podcast and help empower veterans and first responders through community-building and service. As a 501(c)(3) pending organization, your financial sponsorship will directly contribute to programs that inspire connection and purpose. To learn more and become a valued sponsor, please contact Ed Bejarana at [email protected].

Ed Bejarana interviews Seth Horst, a retired California CHP officer turned north Idaho realtor, about his law enforcement career and transition to civilian life. Seth discusses his unexpected entry into law enforcement, his experiences at the CHP Academy, and the challenges of dealing with trauma. He highlights the importance of community and mentorship, particularly in helping veterans and first responders transition out of their careers. Seth emphasizes the value of situational awareness, communication, and attention to detail. He also shares his involvement in coaching jiu-jitsu and the Patriot Pour initiative, which brings together veterans and first responders for support and camaraderie.

Your North Idaho Agent

yournorthidahoagent.com

You can contact Seth Horst, a real estate agent based in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, through the following methods:

• Phone: (208) 618-4493
• Email: [email protected]
• Office Address: 1875 N Lakewood Dr, Suite 200, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Start Your Own Coffee Group

Looking to make a meaningful difference in your community? Start your own veterans and first responder coffee gathering! A simple meet-up can build friendships, offer support, and create a lasting impact. At The Veterans Club, we’re here to help you get started—reach out to us at theveteransclub.org for free resources and guidance. Bring your community together, one cup of coffee at a time, and help support those who’ve served.

Narrated by Kids Initiative

Do you have a teen who could use a little extra help discovering the joy of reading? Enroll them in Narrated by Kids, an inspiring program from The Veterans Club. Through this initiative, teens will not only develop a love for storytelling but also create meaningful audiobook content for those who are visually impaired. It’s a chance for young readers to grow, connect, and make a difference. Limited spots are available, so visit theveteransclub.org today to learn more and reserve a spot!

In a heartfelt episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana sits down with Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris to delve into a candid discussion about law enforcement, personal transformation, and community engagement. Sheriff Norris shares his journey from a young boy in Bellflower, California, drawn to law enforcement, through his challenging and rewarding career with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office, and finally to his current role in Kootenai County, Idaho.

Throughout the episode, Norris recounts pivotal moments from his service that shaped his approach to law enforcement and community leadership. He describes his early days coping with high stress and negative energy in jail settings, significant events like the 1992 Los Angeles riots, and the transformative impact of 9/11 on community unity and crime.

Sheriff Norris emphasizes the deep bonds and brotherhood formed through his career, extending across many deputies and units. He discusses the significant emotional toll and physical demands of the job, advocating for strong family support systems for law enforcement officers and first responders.

The discussion also veers into the personal impacts of the career, including the challenges of adjusting to retirement and the ongoing commitment to community service. Norris highlights his efforts to remain engaged through various service organizations and initiatives, like his annual 9/11 remembrance event which strengthens community ties and honors American resilience.

Ed Bejarana and Sheriff Norris conclude the episode with powerful reflections on the importance of service, community involvement, and the unique contributions veterans and first responders bring to their communities. They encourage listeners to find meaningful ways to connect, support each other, and continue serving beyond their official duties, reinforcing the podcast's mission to support veteran and first responder well-being and community engagement.

Meeting Info:  

The Patriot Pour is a weekly coffee meeting of The Veterans Club, including veterans and first responders who live in and around the Coeur d’Alene Metro.  Meetings are held weekly (Wednesday morning at 0800) at LYFE Public House at 116 E Lakeside Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.  All veterans and first responders (retired or on active duty) are welcome to attend.  Come meet other vets and first responders, build new relationships, and get involved in the community.

Patriot Pour is hosted by Dave Miller with LYFE Public Coffee House.  Coffee and meeting space is provided by Dave free of charge.  Visit LYFE Coffee and see the Wall of Service Patches of the men and women who’ve served our nation and community.  Thank you Dave!

Please be our guest at an upcoming meeting!  Would you like to present at a future meeting?  Click this link for more information.

In the face of a national literacy crisis, veterans and first responders can lead by example in combatting children's illiteracy. With reading proficiency falling below 40% in many cities, The Veterans Club is launching a Children's Literacy Program. This initiative not only fosters a love of reading but also creates audiobooks for the visually impaired, empowering both young readers and narrators alike.

In this episode of The Veterans Club, Sergeant Major Roy Lewis sits down with retired Air Force Master Sergeant Patricia Hurdle for a compelling conversation about the unique challenges female veterans face, both during and after their service. From breaking barriers in leadership to navigating the transition into civilian life, Patricia shares her candid experiences and offers powerful advice for veterans, especially women, to embrace their service and strength. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn how female veterans are making their mark, one mission at a time. Don’t miss this insightful episode of The Veterans Club!

Tricia Hurdle Aguilera is a business support manager at Bank of America, creating executive-level presentations and managing project portfolios. Specializing in problem-solving and out-of-the-box thinking, Tricia uses that expertise to create result-driven proposals and time-saving solutions. In addition, she served 21 years in the Air Force as a meteorologist and space weather forecaster.

Tricia is an award-winning speaker, a mental health advocate, and a mentor for under-deserved groups. A self-proclaimed nerd, she spends her free time learning new skills including 3d printing, woodworking, and baking.