In this episode of Untold Valor, we welcome Sarah Schwager, Program Lead for the King of Prussia chapter of Project Healing Waters, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans heal through the therapeutic power of fly fishing. Founded in 2005, Project Healing Waters now serves veterans across 48 states with over 200 programs nationwide. Sarah shares how her lifelong passion for fishing and background as a certified trauma therapist come together in her work with veterans recovering from both visible and invisible wounds of service.

From casting lessons and fly tying to group outings and community events, the program offers far more than fishing- it provides camaraderie, confidence, and connection for those who have sacrificed so much. Sarah also explains the many ways listeners can support the mission, from volunteering to donating equipment or funds.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

2:06 – What is Project Healing Waters?

3:01 – How Sarah got involved in this project

5:05 – Recovery through Project Healing Waters

9:04 – PHW Women on the Fly 

10:51 – The therapeutic power of fishing and community

13:31 – Getting involved 

22:02 – Sarah’s message to our listeners 

Sarah Schwager

Learn more about Sarah HERE

Project Healing Waters

https://projecthealingwaters.org/

Ways to Give

https://projecthealingwaters.org/ways-to-give/donate-now/

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this powerful kickoff to Season 4, we’re joined by Kimberly Hollenback, Regional VOCA Supervising Attorney with Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Kim shares how her team helps victims of domestic violence- especially veterans and their families- navigate difficult legal situations involving restraining orders, custody battles, financial abuse, and more.

Domestic violence isn’t always visible. Emotional, psychological, and financial abuse are equally damaging and often harder to spot. This conversation explores how trauma, PTSD, and addiction can intersect with domestic violence, making it harder for survivors to ask for help. Listeners will also learn how trauma-informed legal support can help survivors regain a sense of control and safety.

If you or someone you know feels trapped, isolated, or unsure of what to do next, there are confidential resources available and professionals who can help.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:47 – Meet Kim and her work with LASP

3:06 – How domestic violence shows up in veteran communities

3:58 – Getting help: legal aid, income caps, and VOCA funding

7:51 – The different forms of abuse

11:32 – Common barriers to getting help

12:41 – What led Kim to this career 

14:58 – Final thoughts: You’re not alone, and help exists

Kimberly Hollenback

Learn more about Kim HERE

EPISODE LINKS

LASP

https://www.lasp.org/domestic-violence

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode of Untold Valor, we sit down with Grace Caulfield, LPC, and Clinic Director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals. With over 24 years of experience, Grace shares how her team provides timely, comprehensive mental health support to service members, veterans, and their families.

Grace discusses how the clinic reduces barriers to care, offers services via telehealth across several states, and focuses on early intervention as prevention. She also explains how trauma can ripple through families and the importance of treating the entire support system alongside veterans and service members. 

Don’t miss this powerful message of hope and for a reminder that the difference between illness and wellness is just one word: we. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone.

#Season3

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

3:34 – Getting in touch with the team

4:56 – How Grace found herself in this role

7:07 – The importance of family care and early intervention 

12:13 – The power of telehealth services 

13:57 – Grace’s message to our listeners 

Grace Caulfield 

Learn more about Grace HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic Website:

https://www.easterseals.com/DCMDVA/programs-and-services/cvn-home.html

Services Provided:

https://www.easterseals.com/DCMDVA/programs-and-services/cvn-services.html

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by The Honorable John P. Capuzzi Sr., a senior judge in Delaware County, who has spent the past several years helping veterans and others in crisis find their footing again. Judge Capuzzi oversees Veterans Court, Mental Health Court, the Second Chance Court for substance abuse, and a program aimed at reducing gun violence among young offenders.

You’ll learn how the Veterans Court works and focuses on treatment, support, and long-term recovery rather than immediate incarceration. Judge Capuzzi shares what it’s like to sit next to veterans in court, listen to their stories, and connect them with the help they need to turn things around. Tune in as he talks about relapse, recovery, second and third chances, and why he believes no one should be given up on.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:19 – Judge Capuzzi’s background 

2:12 – Understanding Veterans Court 

10:40 – Judge Capuzzi’s journey to helping veterans 

13:41 – The power of accepting help

18:23 – Final thoughts and encouragement 

The Honorable John P. Capuzzi Sr.

Learn more about Judge Capuzzi HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this gripping follow-up episode, retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack returns to share the lasting impact of surviving a horrific insider attack during his time with the 101st Airborne. He shares the emotional and strategic fallout of that day, and how it reshaped his understanding of trust, leadership, and personal safety.

Tune in as Bart offers powerful, practical lessons drawn from his experience. From spotting red flags to understanding the “proximity illusion,” he breaks down the situational awareness strategies that can help prevent violence before it happens. Bart also shares his advice for fellow veterans navigating the transition to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding your tribe, staying connected, and reaching out to those who’ve walked a similar path.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:37 – The attack and its impact

6:22 – Strategies to mitigate insider threats

11:42 – The impact of society, mental health, and lack of faith in today’s world

14:25 – Embracing situational awareness 

18:05 – Final thoughts and advice

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Visit Bart’s website HERE 

Read The Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of The Embedded Enemy HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

We are honored to welcome retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack to the podcast today. With over 29 years of distinguished service in the United States Army, he’ll share his story from enlistment to leading thousands of soldiers in the 101st Airborne Division. 

In the first of a two-part conversation, Bart reflects on his early days in the military and the leadership lessons that shaped him. He recounts a harrowing insider attack at Camp Pennsylvania in 2003- an event that left soldiers wounded, lives lost, and a community forever changed. You’ll also hear how Bart navigated the transition to civilian life, found healing through storytelling, and used his experience to shape his book, Embedded Enemy.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

2:29 – Bart’s time in service 

6:47 – Helping soldiers find strength in themselves

10:54 – Bart’s transition to Hollywood

15:20 – The transition to civilian life

17:26 –The Embedded Enemy incident and its impact

27:42 – Bart’s advice for veterans 

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Bart HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Read Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of Embedded Enemy HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

We’re honored to be joined by Clarence Jones today, a Marine Corps veteran whose own struggles after service ignited his passion for helping others. After facing challenges that led to a medical discharge, Clarence experienced firsthand the difficulties many veterans encounter when transitioning to civilian life. Determined to make a difference, he now works with the Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC) to connect veterans with critical resources for housing, mental health, and addiction recovery.

In this episode, Clarence shares how CAADC and the Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) programs are making a real impact, providing veterans with the tools they need to regain stability and independence. If you or someone you know is struggling with housing insecurity, financial hardships, or other post-service challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:09 – Getting to know Clarence 

4:39 – Understanding the CAADC and SSVF

6:47 – The main struggles veterans face

8:03 – No veteran left behind 

12:23 – How veterans can get help from Clarence and the team

Clarence Jones

"My name is Clarence E Jones Jr. I work for CAADC the SSVF (Support Services for Veterans Family) dept. I'm a USMC Disable Vet. I have been at the company for 5 years. The SSVF was established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and aims to rapidly re-house homeless Veteran families and prevent homelessness for very low-income Veterans at imminent risk due to a housing crisis. It provides case management, temporary financial assistance, and supportive services to help individuals and families gain housing stability and end their homelessness."

EPISODE LINKS

CAADC Website:

https://caadc.org/

SSVF Website:

https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode, we are joined by Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey, a 12-year Army veteran who now works with the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) in Pennsylvania. After serving in Iraq and returning home, Dartanyun faced the challenges of finding his place in the civilian world firsthand.

Today, he plays a crucial role in assisting veterans as they navigate barriers to employment. His journey offers valuable insights into the challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life- whether it’s dealing with employment uncertainty, personal struggles, or overcoming mental health hurdles. Tune in as he talks about the important work the DVOP is doing to help veterans find their next step. 

Whether you’re struggling to find a job, feel disconnected, or are unsure about your next step, this episode is packed with helpful strategies and encouragement to help you move forward.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:43 – Getting to know Dartanyun 

6:48 – Helping veterans become employment-ready  

9:23 – The value of veterans helping other veterans  

11:54 – Advice for veterans seeking employment

14:59 – Setting realistic expectations for career transition  

Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey 

Learn more about Dartanyun HERE

Learn more about the DVOP: https://www.pacareerlinklackawanna.org/veterans-services-1#:~:text=About%20DVOP&text=Through%20the%20Disabled%20Veterans%20Outreach,various%20community%20resources%20for%20Veterans.

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

Navigating the VA benefits system can be frustrating, exhausting, and emotionally draining. Many veterans feel unheard and stuck in an endless cycle- but you don’t have to fight alone. 

In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re sitting down with Neil Woods and Lori Underwood of Woods & Woods: The Veterans Firm to discuss the biggest challenges veterans face when filing claims, why persistence is key, and how professional advocacy can make all the difference.

Neil and Lori share powerful insights from years of working with veterans, offering guidance on how to push forward, get the support you deserve, and take the stress off your shoulders. If you or a loved one are struggling with a VA claim, this episode is a must-listen!

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 – Intro

1:52 – Overview of Woods & Woods

4:27 – VA disability claims, service-connected conditions & family benefits

11:49 – Challenges and process of VA claims

15:14 – Toxic exposure and long-term care for veterans

25:46 – Final advice and encouragement

About Our Guests:

Neil Woods is the president Woods & Woods, The Veterans Firm. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.

Lori Underwood is the managing attorney at Woods & Woods, The Veterans Firm. She received her J.D. from Northern Kentucky University.

EPISODE LINKS 

Learn more about Woods & Woods Law Firm

https://www.woodslawyers.com/

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

Today we have the privilege of speaking with Brie White, a passionate advocate for veterans and the Director of Griswold Home Care in Delaware County. As an army brat, she has witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by her family members, which has fueled her desire to give back to the veteran community.

Griswold Home Care operates as a non-medical home care agency and is a nationally VA-approved provider. With over 200 locations across 32 states, they are dedicated to serving veterans and enhancing their quality of life.  

We encourage you to share this episode with anyone who may benefit from hearing about Griswold's resources available for veterans. Whether you are a veteran yourself or know someone who has served, there is help out there, and reaching out is the first step towards a better quality of life. 

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

0:00 –  Intro
1:29 –  Getting to know Brie
3:02 – An overview of Griswold Home Care Services
5:43 – The challenge of accessing services for veterans 
7:13 – Griswold’s partnerships and expanding reach
10:06 – Key services that veterans need
12:11 – Brie’s message for veterans

Brie White

Learn more about Brie HERE

EPISODE LINKS 

Griswold Home Care

https://www.griswoldcare.com/delaware-county/care-services/

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans:  https://bit.ly/416cf0Q