WWIA Podcast

On this latest episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO John McDaniel is both honored and humbled to welcome today’s esteemed guest, General David H. Petraeus, U.S. Army, Retired. General Petraeus is one of the most distinguished military leaders, strategists, and national security figures of the modern era.

General Petraeus served our Nation for more than 37 years in the United States Army, culminating in six consecutive commands as a general officer, five of them in combat. His extraordinary career included commanding the Surge in Iraq, leading U.S. Central Command, and serving as Commander of U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan. Following his retirement from the military, and after confirmation by the United States Senate by a vote of 94–0, General Petraeus served as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, General Petraeus earned his Ph.D. in international relations and economics from Princeton University. Remarkably, he is the only person in Army history to graduate at the top of his class from both the U.S. Army Ranger School and the Army’s Command and General Staff College.

His military awards and decorations include four Defense Distinguished Service Medals, the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, two NATO Meritorious Service Medals, the Master Combat Action Badge, Ranger Tab, and Master Parachutist, Mountaineering, and Air Assault Badges. He has also been decorated by 14 foreign nations.

Beyond his military and government service, General Petraeus has remained a prominent voice on leadership, national security, international affairs, and the changing character of warfare. He has held academic positions at institutions including Harvard, Yale, the University of Southern California, and the City University of New York, and has been recognized twice as one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.

Today, General Petraeus is a Partner at KKR, Chairman of the KKR Global Institute, and Chairman of KKR Middle East. He is also the co-author, alongside renowned British historian Andrew Roberts, of the New York Times bestseller Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Gaza, an examination of the evolution of warfare and the lessons that history holds for the conflicts of today and tomorrow.

Few individuals have experienced leadership and service from as many consequential vantage points—from the battlefield to the highest levels of military command, to the intelligence community, academia, and the global stage.

This is an intriguing interview full of wisdom and insight that only General Petraeus could offer through his unique experiences. It is our distinct honor to share this episode with you.

Takeaways:

• General Petraeus describes the Purple Heart is the one medal respected by all and sought by none.
• General Petraeus recalls commanding the surge in Iraq and emphasizes that a change in strategy, not merely additional troops, mattered most.
• General Petraeus explains that the loneliness of command requires guarded communication and steady resolve under constant scrutiny.
• General Petraeus explains our support for Ukraine and how we must urge continued military, economic, and sanction measures to compel a cessation of hostilities.
• General Petraeus outlines that successful leadership demands four tasks: conceive big ideas, communicate them, oversee implementation, and refine.
• General Petraeus describes his current work in geopolitical risk and investment, noting extensive travel, public speaking, and nonprofit support responsibilities.
• General Petraeus discusses mentors who shaped his career from West Point onward and how their example and counsel guided critical decisions.
• General Petraeus emphasizes that reconciling with former insurgents and pursuing political solutions were indispensable in stabilizing Iraq after the surge.

On this latest episode, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel welcomes back our longstanding friend, supporter, event Host, and WWIA’s Science advisor, Dr. Keith Tidball.

With over 25 years of experience in the natural resources and conservation field, Keith currently serves as the Executive Director at Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation, leveraging his expertise in executive-level management, social science, wildlife and outdoor education, and organizational leadership to execute the organization's mission of promoting outdoor education and conservation.

His work focuses on cultivating programs and initiatives that inspire citizen conservationists and foster a sustainable land ethic, with a particular emphasis on hunting and fishing as timeless pathways to environmental stewardship.

As an academic (Emeritus), Dr. Tidball’s research and applied scholarship explore the intersection of natural resource management, human dimensions of conservation, and resilience in the face of rapid change, trauma, and conflict.

Drawing on a multidisciplinary background that includes cultural anthropology, disturbance ecology, and environmental psychology, he often collaborates with diverse stakeholders to enhance recovery and resilience through outdoor recreation.

Aside from contributing invaluable research and insights as WWIA’s Science Advisor, Dr. Tidball and his wife Moira--in conjunction with the Kuneytown Sportsmen’s Club--have proudly hosted WWIA’s Kuneytown FLX Ducks and Bucks Hunt in beautiful Seneca Falls, NY for the past 12 years. This is a wonderful episode that we know you’re going to enjoy.

Takeaways:

• The central mission of the Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation is to bring honor, connection, and healing to combat-wounded veterans, particularly those who have received the Purple Heart.
• Dr. Keith Tidball's extensive experience in conservation emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activities for veterans, promoting resilience and recovery through nature.
• The recent survey data indicates that a significant percentage of veterans felt less isolated and more connected after participating in outdoor events organized by WWIA.
• Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the podcast highlights how local hosts contribute to the success of the events, fostering lasting relationships with veterans.
• The discussion underscores the need for educational programs that connect youth with the outdoors, aiming to instill a sense of environmental stewardship from an early age.
• The dialogue reveals a profound understanding of trauma and its effects on veterans, demonstrating how intentional outdoor activities can serve as a remedy for psychological challenges.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Wounded Warriors in Action
• Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation
• Safari Club International
• Cornell University
• Field and Stream

On this latest episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel is honored to spend some quality time with two of the Foundation’s long-standing friends and leaders. Today, we proudly welcome combat-wounded Purple Heart Heroes and WWIA certified Guides Jeremy Smith and Derek VanBuren to the show. Jeremy and Derek are attending WWIA’s 2nd iteration of their Leadership Development Program at WWIA headquarters in beautiful Apollo beach, Florida.

The Leadership Development Program is designed to identify, train, and develop key leaders within WWIA. Few have the opportunity to fully understand the inner workings of the organization—how events are planned, resources are managed, and operations are developed. This program bridges that gap by providing personalized leadership development experiences led directly by WWIA’s Founder and CEO. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to plan, resource, and execute complex WWIA events and activities, as well as manage the day-to-day functions that keep the organization thriving.

Jeremy Smith served 2-1/2 years in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division. In 2006 he was injured by mortar shrapnel in Baghdad, Iraq, and was awarded the Purple Heart medal. After several surgeries and months of physical therapy, he was medically retired from service. Jeremy currently lives in Burke, South Dakota with his beautiful wife April, and their daughter Natalie and son Matthew. For the past three years Jeremy has owned and operated Star Lake Outfitters, providing exciting hunting and fishing expeditions. Hunting and fishing have always been a part of his life, but it never played such an important role until now. Since leaving the military, Jeremy has found special solace in the conservation of the outdoors, and the tranquility and peace it provides.

Derek VanBuren grew up with a love for hunting, fishing and trapping from an early age and his passion for all things outdoors continues to this day. While attending college, he worked as a hunting guide, which broadened his interest in hunting, especially bow hunting. Derek joined the Army in July of 1998 and was deployed to Afghanistan from Nov 2008 until July 2009. While deployed, he and other members of his crew were wounded by an RPG during an intense firefight. He then spent time in Lundstuhl, Germany, Walter Reed Army Hospital, and the Warrior Transition Unit while recovering from wounds, for which he received the Purple Heart medal. He attended his first WWIA event at Camp Hackett, Wisconsin in the fall of 2010 and has been a valuable part of the WWIA team ever since. Today he lives in Negaunee, Michigan, with his wife Katie and two children Eli and Amelia. He enjoys stream fishing for Brook Trout, fishing Lake Superior for Lake Trout, Predator Hunting, grouse and small game hunting, bow hunting of all kinds, and most anything outdoors.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast emphasizes the importance of honoring America's combat wounded Purple Heart Heroes, fostering a sense of connection and healing among them.
• Participants in the Leadership Development Program are afforded the unique opportunity to gain insight into the operational and event-planning aspects of the WWIA foundation.
• The podcast features stories of resilience from combat veterans Jeremy Smith and Derek Van Buren, highlighting their experiences and the impact of their military service.
• The Leadership Development Program is designed to cultivate leadership skills among Purple Heart recipients, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the foundation's mission.
• Through outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, the WWIA fosters camaraderie and support among veterans who have faced significant challenges in their lives.
• The podcast serves as a platform for sharing personal narratives that underscore the transformative power of connection, honor, and healing in the lives of combat-wounded veterans.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Star Lake Outfitters
• Pheasants Forever
• Wounded Warriors in Action

Today on the WWIA Podcast, we're honored to welcome an incredible friend and supporter of the Foundation, Mr. Danny Kirsic.....a filmmaker, cinematographer, musician, and Air Force Veteran whose remarkable career has spanned more than four decades. Growing up in a military family and traveling the world from a young age, Danny developed a passion for storytelling through photography, music, and film. His experiences in the U.S. Air Force, including helping document the historic evacuation of Saigon in 1975, profoundly shaped his creative vision and lifelong dedication to capturing authentic human stories.

Danny has since built an extraordinary career in television, film, and music, earning four Telly Awards, including one for WWIA's short film, Honor, Connect, Heal. He has contributed to more than 300 episodes of unscripted television and documentaries for major networks. From the Arctic Circle to Cape Horn, his adventures and work have taken him around the globe, always driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence.

Danny resides in the North Georgia Mountains with his wife Suzan, also an accomplished still photographer. They have a daughter who is a successful writer and shares in the family's creative gene-pool, a Firefighter son-in-law and two grandchildren. We are honored to welcome Danny as he speaks about his military service, creative journey, and the experiences that have made him one of the industry's most respected visual storytellers.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast is dedicated to bringing honor and healing to America's combat wounded veterans.
• Mr. Danny Kirsic, a filmmaker and Air Force Veteran, shares insights from his extensive career.
• The importance of storytelling in connecting with and supporting combat-wounded Veterans is emphasized.
• Danny Kirsic's unique experiences in the military and the arts illustrate the power of creativity in overcoming challenges.
• The podcast highlights the collaborative efforts of various individuals to support Veterans through creative means.
• The conversation underscores the profound impact of personal connections and shared experiences in the healing journey of Veterans.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• WWIA
• First Watch
• Ammo.com

For combat-wounded Veterans, time spent in the great outdoors through therapeutic and adaptive sports like hunting and fishing can provide healing, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose. Today on the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO John McDaniel is honored to welcome one of the most respected names and an expert in the outdoor industry, Captain Tom Rowland.

From his early days fishing alongside his father in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to guiding on the legendary rivers of Jackson Hole and the waters of Key West, Captain Tom Rowland has built a remarkable career fueled by hard work, determination, and a relentless passion for the outdoors. A world-class angler, accomplished tournament competitor, fly-casting champion, and health and fitness enthusiast, Tom has also become a pioneer in outdoor media as the creator and host of the long-running television series Saltwater Experience, Into the Blue, and Sweetwater. Of all his accomplishments though, none mean more to Tom than being a dedicated husband and father.

Beyond television, Tom’s passion for education and mentorship continues through the wildly successful Tom Rowland Podcast, where he shares conversations and insights with some of the most respected voices in the outdoor world, leadership, and living at your highest level. Today, he joins us to talk about fishing, family, perseverance, guiding, and the life-changing impact the outdoors can have on all of us—especially our Nation’s combat-wounded Heroes. This is an engaging episode that we are proud to present to you.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast emphasizes the transformative power of the outdoors for combat wounded veterans, promoting healing and camaraderie.
• Captain Tom Roland exemplifies the intersection of fishing expertise and mentorship, fostering a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
• Guiding is portrayed not merely as a profession, but as an art form that encompasses safety, education, and customer enjoyment.
• Effective communication between guides and clients is essential for ensuring a fulfilling fishing experience, tailored to individual expectations.
• The importance of preparation and adaptability in guiding is highlighted, showcasing the need for guides to respond to diverse client needs.
• The podcast illustrates the profound respect for veterans, advocating for their acknowledgment and the appreciation of their sacrifices.

Links referenced in this episode:

• https://wwiaf.org
• https://www.tomrowlandpodcast.com
• https://www.saltwaterexperience.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• WWIA
• Saltwater Experience
• Tom Roland Podcast
• Discovery Channel

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This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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For more than 20 years, we’ve witnessed something powerful: the healing of combat-wounded Veterans not only through outdoor experiences like hunting and fishing, but also through unexpected avenues—like the art of woodturning. In this episode, WWIA Founder and CEO John McDaniel sits down with Tony Kopchinski, a National Guard Veteran from Kronenwetter, Wisconsin, who leads one of our most unique and deeply impactful programs, the Wisconsin Woodturning Event.

Now in its 12th year, this one-of-a-kind experience introduces our Heroes to the craft of woodturning, shaping wood on a lathe into beautiful, functional pieces like bowls, plates, and game calls. But it’s more than just craftsmanship. Under Tony’s guidance, and alongside a dedicated group of skilled artisans, Veterans discover focus, purpose, and a sense of peace through the creative process.

Tony’s passion for serving our Nation’s Heroes is unmistakable. Over the years, he and his team have helped create moments of healing and transformation that not only leave a lasting mark, but that have literally saved lives. His impact is deeply felt, and his story is one worth hearing.

We’re honored to share Tony’s journey, his heart, and his experiences with you.

Takeaways:

• This episode emphasizes the profound impact that creative activities such as woodturning have on the healing process of combat wounded veterans.
• Tony Kopchinski's dedication to serving veterans through woodturning showcases how craftsmanship can foster connection and personal transformation.
• The podcast highlights the importance of community support in helping veterans find purpose and healing through art and shared experiences.
• Listeners are encouraged to appreciate the therapeutic effects of hands-on activities in the lives of those who have faced trauma in combat situations.

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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Mentioned in this episode:

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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Some of the most remarkable traits that our combat-wounded Veterans share are bravery, fortitude and resilience. On this latest episode of the WWIA Podcast, we are honored to introduce you to a special guest whose journey has been fraught with numerous challenges and extreme obstacles both personally and professionally. And despite all of it, she has pushed through with strength and determination, overcome trials, and found uncommon success in life.

WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel is proud to welcome friend, entrepreneur, speaker, and author Serena Mastin to the podcast. Serena started her life in witness protection and nine different foster homes, leading to teenage addiction and homelessness, and most recently walked through the devastation of her husband's suicide. Serena has faced unimaginable adversity. Yet, despite her challenges, she found a real sense of purpose along the way.

The most inspiring part of her story is her strength, resilience, and authenticity. She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight from industries across the corporate landscape - with over twenty years of experience climbing the corporate ladder, Serena's career has included being knocked down and climbing back to executive leadership roles with Fortune 500 companies before carving her own path by founding Pulse Marketing Incorporated. in 2013 - an award-winning marketing and advertising agency connecting people with brands by creating engaging content, purposeful graphics, thought-provoking web designs, and meaningful advertising campaigns that capture the heart of every business.

In addition to being a visionary entrepreneur, Serena recently published her first book, Exposed: You Can't Heal When You Hide, a memoir recounting her life story in harrowing detail.

In the book, Serena discusses her experiences with assault, addiction, homelessness, infidelity, mental health, and, ultimately, profound healing.

Serena’s thought-provoking story encourages and empowers others to embrace challenges and do it with passion. We are excited to share her story and know it will resonate and inspire you.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Serena Mastin, who overcame a childhood filled with adversity, including foster care and addiction, to become a successful entrepreneur.
• Serena's memoir, "Can't Heal When You Hide," recounts her harrowing experiences with trauma, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in healing and personal growth.
• The podcast highlights the significant role of resilience and determination in navigating life's challenges, particularly for combat-wounded veterans who share similar struggles.
• We discuss the critical nature of self-care and the necessity of addressing one's own mental health before being able to support others effectively.
• The conversation underscores the idea that overcoming personal demons is essential not only for individual healing but also for fostering a supportive community around those in need.
• Serena's story serves as a powerful reminder that vulnerability and openness are key components of true connection and healing within our lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

• serenamastin.com
• wwiaf.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Wounded Warriors in Action
• Pulse Marketing Inc.
• Hot Topic

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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Mentioned in this episode:

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This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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On this episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, is excited to welcome two remarkable entrepreneurs and tremendous supporters of the Foundation to the show, Mr. Joe Pechauer and Mr. Dan Bourget.

Joe Pechauer is the President and master cue maker behind J. Pechauer Custom Cues, a family-owned business that has become one of the most respected names in billiards craftsmanship. Starting in the early 1960s in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Joe and his father, Jerry, combined a passion for pool with an obsession for precision, building cues by hand in their basement workshop. Over time, his unmatched attention to detail, innovation in cue design, and dedication to players’ performance helped elevate the brand to international recognition. Joe’s legacy continued to grow as he recently brought his sons (Riley and Jake) into the craft, ensuring that the Pechauer commitment to quality would span generations. Known not only for his skill but also his humility and love for the sport, Joe has earned the admiration of professionals and enthusiasts alike, recently being inducted into the Wisconsin Billiards Hall of Fame.

Dan Bourget is the majority owner of Olhausen Billiards together with the founder, Donny Olhausen. Olhausen Billiards (The “Best in Billiards”) was founded in 1972 and has been proudly making high-quality, handcrafted pool tables and game tables for over 50 years. Located in Portland, Tennessee, Olhausen is the largest manufacturer of pool tables in the United States, known for traditional craftsmanship, innovative features, durability and value, making them a respected name in the billiards industry. Dan and his wife Paula live near Nashville Tennessee and together, they proudly run Olhausen Billiards. This is a wonderful episode that we’re proud to share with you.

Takeaways:

1. The WWIA Podcast is dedicated to honoring and supporting America's combat wounded Purple Heart Heroes through various initiatives.
2. Joe Pechauer of J. Pechauer Custom Cues emphasizes the importance of precision and craftsmanship in billiards, which has been handed down through generations.
3. Dan Bourget of Olhausen Billiards describes the significance of American-made products, highlighting the company's commitment to quality and innovation in pool tables.
4. The collaborative efforts between Pechauer Cues and Olhausen Billiards exemplify a shared dedication to community service and support for Veterans' organizations.
5. Both Joe and Dan express their deep respect for the sacrifices made by Veterans, contributing to their motivation to support the Wounded Warriors in Action foundation.
6. The podcast shares personal anecdotes reflecting the impact of billiards on community engagement, particularly among combat wounded Veterans.

To learn more about our friends and partners, please visit them online:

1. J. Pechauer Custom Cues- https://pechauer.com
2. Olhausen Billiards- https://www.olhausenbilliards.com

To see the remarkable Purple Heart Hero Pool Cue and the Purple Heart Hero Pool Table designed in honor of WWIA and America's combat-wounded Veterans, go to following link:

https://wwiaf.org/pechauer-and-olhausen-join-forces-to-honor-americas-combat-wounded-veterans

Behind every WWIA event are countless individuals on the local level who go above and beyond to show their gratitude and appreciation to our Heroes for their tremendous service and sacrifice. They put in countless preparation hours throughout the year to ensure each event has everything it needs, pooling community resources and engaging others in the process to provide a world-class experience our Heroes will carry with them long after they return home. They do all this without fanfare, contributing their time and talents all in support of our mission to bring Honor, Connection, and Healing to our Heroes.

On this latest episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel welcomes Brook Sparks, of the North Carolina OBX Fins and Feathers event. Each year, the community of Currituck, North Carolina rolls out the red carpet for our Heroes, showing them the honor and appreciation they deserve.

Brook is a shining example of the many selfless volunteers around North America who make our WWIA events not just special, but life changing. Brook and her husband Brad are lifelong residents of Currituck and are deeply rooted in the community.

Brook grew up in the county when there was no grocery store, only two lanes, and small-town living meant everyone knew everyone. Currituck has grown and changed in many ways, but that sense of community has never faded.

The North Carolina OBX Fins and Feathers event is a perfect reflection of Currituck’s patriotism and love for our Veterans, and it’s the heart of why this event is truly remarkable.

For over fifteen years, Brook has worked in real estate and property management, gaining experience in nearly every corner of the industry. Today, she is the owner of a boutique real estate sales and property management firm in Nags Head, assisting domestic and international buyers and sellers in finding their forever homes or securing strong-performing investment properties.

When she isn’t working, you can usually find her and her husband on the baseball field with their two sons, Bradley and Jonathan. Their family is immersed in the outdoors, from hunting to fishing and Brook has been involved with the OBX annual event for well over a decade.

She explains that giving back through WWIA is deeply meaningful as it allows her to support an incredible cause, and creates a way for her friends, neighbors, and community to come together and make an impact where it matters most.

We are honored to spend some time talking with Brook and showing you how everyone can play an important part in the mission of WWIA, and in making a real difference in the lives of our Purple Heart Heroes.

Takeaways:

1. The mission of the Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation is to bring honor, connection, and healing to America's combat wounded heroes.
2. Community involvement is essential for the success of the WWIA events, as volunteers contribute significant time and resources to support the heroes.
3. Brook Sparks exemplifies the dedication of volunteers who create life-changing experiences for veterans through selfless acts of service.
4. The North Carolina OBX Fins and Feathers event showcases the patriotism and gratitude of the local community towards veterans and their sacrifices.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. North Carolina OBX Fins and Feathers
2. NC Coast
3. Red Sky
4. Currituck Sports
5. Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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Mentioned in this episode:

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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Our event Hosts play a vital role in our mission to bring healing and restoration to our combat-wounded Veterans. Their selfless generosity and hard work behind the scenes truly set the stage for a memorable and life-changing time in the field, on the water, or around the dinner table or campfire. On today’s episode, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel welcomes one of our remarkable and long-standing event Hosts to the show, Mr. Bruce Schreiner.

Bruce Schreiner is the co-host of the North Dakota Wild Pheasant Hunt, in Garrison North Dakota. This is a memorial event dedicated to Bruce’s brother Glenn, who also hosted the event and had a deep reverence and respect for Veterans until his passing in 2019.

Bruce has lived in Garrison his entire life and has three children and five grandchildren. He doesn’t just live in the community, he is an active part of it, having had a wonderful career at Garrison State Bank & Trust for 38 years retiring in 2021 as President. He’s also been a member of the Garrison Fire Department & Rescue Squad since 1984, serving as Chief from 1993 until 2025, and is also active in the State Firefighters Association. He further serves on the local Chamber of Commerce, Garrison Area Improvement Association and Better Living for Garrison. His family are fourth generation farmers, and his two nephews now operate the family farm, carrying on a proud and storied tradition. This is an outstanding episode that we know you will enjoy. Let’s go ahead and jump into the conversation with John and Bruce.

Takeaways:

1. The WWIA Podcast emphasizes the importance of community involvement in supporting combat wounded veterans.
2. Event hosts like Bruce Schreiner play a vital role in creating impactful experiences for Purple Heart recipients.
3. The dedication of local businesses and volunteers significantly enhances the success of veteran-related events.
4. Personal stories shared by veterans during these events foster healing and connection among participants.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. WWIA
2. Wounded Warriors in Action
3. Krause's Market
4. Garrison State Bank and Trust
5. Garrison Fire Department
6. Garrison Area Improvement Association
7. Better Living for Garrison
8. Garrison Chamber of Commerce
9. West River Transit

This episode is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities.

It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid.

ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more at https://www.ablenow.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

ABLEnow

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is sponsored by ABLEnow. ABLEnow is a national ABLE savings program designed specifically for people with disabilities. It allows eligible individuals to save and invest money in a tax-advantaged account without risking certain means-tested benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. ABLEnow is available nationwide and serves eligible individuals in all 50 states. Learn more about ABLEnow: https://t.co/r5071ltB0G

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