On this week’s episode, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, is proud to welcome a great American Patriot, and one of his closest lifelong friends to the podcast. We are honored to have Colonel (Retired) Joel T. Suenkel join John for an engaging and timely conversation. Joel hails from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1988. He was commissioned as a 2LT in the Armor branch and went on to graduate from the Command and General Staff College and the Army War College Fellowship Program. He holds a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Behavior from the University of Phoenix, and during his 28+ year career in the Army, held a number of key positions to include:

• Strategic Plans Chief for Stabilization Force 11, Bosnia-Herzegovina (Operation Joint Forge).

• Joint Logistics Command Operations Officer, (CJTF 76), Afghanistan.

• Commander, 83rd Ordnance Battalion, Japan.

• (and) Chief of Logistics, 25th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division-North, Iraq.

Upon retirement from the Army, he accepted the position of Chief of Operations with the Logistics Data Analysis Center, Army Materiel Command, Redstone Arsenal, AL.

In 2020, Joel purchased 75 acres of land in Moulton, Alabama, and embarked on a journey to establish a working cattle ranch, driven by a need to build something lasting with his own two hands. His vision didn’t stop at personal fulfillment. He began to realize the profound therapeutic benefits of working the land, the grounding power of physical labor, and the sense of purpose that came from providing for oneself. It struck him that this experience could be incredibly valuable for others, especially those who had served our country and were navigating the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life. This realization led to Joe’s most meaningful venture: the establishment of Rally Point Veterans’ Ranch, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering veterans through comprehensive sustainable living skills training.

It is a high privilege to have Joel on the podcast, and we know you’re going to enjoy learning more about him and his story.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast serves to honor and support America's combat-wounded Veterans, fostering healing and connection.
• Colonel Joel T. Suenkel, a dedicated Veteran, shares his transformative journey into cattle ranching.
• The establishment of Rally Point Veterans Ranch emphasizes empowering veterans with sustainable living skills.
• The podcast highlights the challenges Veterans face during their transition to civilian life after military service.
• The conversation underscores the therapeutic benefits of engaging with the land and livestock for Veterans' mental health.
• Listeners are encouraged to support the WWIA Foundation and its mission to benefit Wounded Warriors.

June is designated as PTSD Awareness month, because mental health matters.

It’s no secret that our combat-wounded Veterans didn’t just leave what they experienced on the battlefield behind, they brought it home with them, often experiencing the life-altering effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

This, combined with the injuries they and their fellow service members sustained, or the loss of life they witnessed around them, can be devastating and debilitating. It not only affects them, but those within their circle of influence: their family, friends, and even co-workers. It can severely impact relationships, careers, and make day-to-day life difficult to manage.

There are no shortcuts on the journey to healing and well-being, and today’s special guest has dedicated her life to helping others find peace, wholeness, and healing in their own lives. Today, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, is honored to welcome Dr. Stacey Scheckner to the podcast.

Dr. Scheckner is a Licensed Psychologist who has been providing therapeutic services in Florida for over 18 years. Through personal and professional practice and study, she has made it her mission to help people become the best version of themselves. She has successfully worked with clients to help them in a variety of ways: from achieving more in their career, working through difficult divorces, overcoming the effects of PTSD, or raising mentally and physically healthy children. Whatever the issue, her focus is to help people unlock their potential, overcome their challenges, have a positive mindset, and live wholistically better lives.

John and Dr. Scheckner discuss the causes and effects of PTSD, and how healing is possible. They also talk about the challenges of parenting for servicemembers and Veterans, and ways to improve those relationships at home. This is an important podcast and an outstanding interview that we’re excited for you to hear.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing PTSD among combat Veterans, highlighting that many Veterans bring their battlefield experiences home, affecting their daily lives.
• Dr. Stacy Scheckner of Happy Counseling in Tampa, Florida, discusses the profound impact of PTSD not only on Veterans but also on their families, as symptoms can strain relationships and hinder normal functioning.
• Listeners are encouraged to seek professional help for PTSD, as acknowledging the need for assistance is a sign of strength and a crucial step towards healing and recovery.
• The conversation explores practical strategies for Veterans to manage triggers and emotional dysregulation, particularly in parenting situations, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and coping mechanisms.
• John McDaniel and Dr. Scheckner advocate for open discussions about mental health and the necessity of addressing emotional trauma to foster resilience and well-being among Veterans and their families.
• The episode underlines the significance of love and support in parenting, suggesting that Veterans should prioritize quality time with their children to reinforce bonds and facilitate healing.

Happy Counseling (Dr. Stacey Scheckner): https://www.happycounseling.com/

There are those among us who quietly go about the business of doing good—who don’t look for praise or recognition, but whose steady presence and giving spirit make all the difference. The mission of the Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation is built upon the shoulders of such Patriots—men and women, families and businesses—who choose to stand in the gap for our combat-wounded Veterans. They offer not only their resources, but their hearts, their homes, and their hands. And because of them, healing happens.

On this episode of the WWIA Podcast, Founder and CEO John McDaniel introduces us to one of those quiet giants—a man whose life and legacy have become deeply intertwined with the WWIA story. We’re honored to welcome Mr. Joe DePriest, President and CEO of Western States Fire Protection.

For over 28 years, Joe has poured himself into a career marked by excellence and integrity, leading a company known for its strong values and outstanding people. But if you really want to know Joe, you have to look beyond the boardroom. You’ll find him out in the fields of Northwest Missouri, tending to his farm and animals with his beautiful wife, Kim. You’ll find him relaxing in nature, something he’s loved since childhood, as well as hunting and fishing, and sharing those experience with some of the Heroes he welcomes to his property each fall.

Nearly a decade ago, Joe and Kim opened up their farm—and their hearts—to the WWIA family. What began as a gesture of support has grown into a powerful partnership, one that has brought countless Purple Heart Heroes into their care and into the healing embrace of nature. They don’t do it for credit. They do it because it’s their way of giving back and saying thanks to our Heroes for their service and sacrifice.

So today, we invite you to listen in as John sits down with Joe for a heartfelt conversation about service, stewardship, and the incredible impact one family—and one company—can make. This is what it looks like when gratitude meets action, and it's the heart and spirit of WWIA.

Takeaways:

• The Wounded Warriors in Action foundation aims to honor, connect, and heal combat wounded veterans through various initiatives.
• Joe DePriest, president of Western States Fire Protection, exemplifies philanthropy by supporting veterans and their families through outdoor experiences.
• The partnership between Joe and his wife, Kim, with WWIA has provided therapeutic hunting experiences for numerous Purple Heart recipients.
• Engaging with veterans in nature fosters healing and connection, allowing them to share their stories and bond over shared experiences.
• The emotional impact of connecting with veterans and providing them support can lead to lasting friendships and positive memories.
• The foundation's work highlights the importance of gratitude and giving back to those who have served our nation.

The world-class outdoor sporting adventures that our combat-wounded Veterans participate in would not be possible without the generosity and support of our event Hosts. We have a remarkable team of WWIA event Hosts across North America who work with their local communities, friends, and businesses to honor and serve our Purple heart Heroes throughout each year. These Hosts do this voluntarily, rallying support, resources, and coordinating their community base because they want to give back, to recognize and thank America’s combat-wounded Veterans for their tremendous service and sacrifice. Our event Hosts are a critical part of what we do, and we could not be more grateful to have them as a part of our WWIA team and family. Today, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel is honored to introduce you to one of our valued event Hosts, Mr. Andy Wilson.

Andy is the Host of the Great Creek Hunt Club events in beautiful Alberta, Virginia. Great Creek Hunt Club proudly hosts two events per year, a turkey hunt in the spring, and a deer hunt in the fall. This will be their 12th year of hosting the deer hunt, and their 8th year of hosting the turkey hunt. Andy was born and raised just outside of Richmond, Virginia and has been married to his beautiful wife Abigail for 17 years. They have 2 amazing daughters, Kynleigh, who’s about to turn 10, and the youngest, Annistyn, who just turned 7. Whether it’s hunting, fishing, riding 4-wheelers, or checking trail cameras, they both love spending time with Andy in the great outdoors. Andy has hunted at the Great Creek Hunt Club since he was old enough to carry a gun. His grandfather and friends started the hunt club back in 1965and it is still thriving today. Andy says his best hunting memories have been made at the hunt club. It’s a special place to get away and commune with nature, and the hunting in this area is exceptional. Having the opportunity to hunt with some of the same people for over 30 years has been a tremendous privilege, and the members of the Great Creek Hunt Club are honored to be able to host these events in honor and recognition of America’s Purple Heart Heroes.

Takeaways:

• The Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation is dedicated to honoring and supporting combat wounded veterans through outdoor activities.
• Our community of event hosts plays a pivotal role in facilitating unique hunting experiences for Purple Heart recipients across North America.
• The significance of camaraderie and connection among veterans during these events fosters healing and appreciation for their sacrifices.
• Every event is not solely about the harvest but rather the shared experiences and bonds created between participants and their guides.
• Engagement in outdoor activities provides veterans an opportunity to reconnect with nature and find joy in shared interests.
• The Foundation's success relies heavily on the generous contributions of local communities and individuals who support our mission.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• WWIA
• Great Creek Hunt Club
• Fort Myer Thrift Store
• Bonaire Exteriors

We have another outstanding episode to share with you today, as we welcome a tremendous patriot and friend of the Foundation to the program. Today, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel is honored to share some time talking with Purple Heart Hero, WWIA Guide, and WWIA Event Host, Mr. Roy Holland.

Roy is married to his beautiful wife Sasha and is a father to two sons, Russell and Braden. Having been born into a military family, Roy joined the Marine Corps after high school and would also serve in Vermont Army National Guard, where he was deployed multiple times in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has also served as a police officer for 25 years, currently serving as the Chief of Police in Enfield, New Hampshire.

His biggest passions (other than family) are hunting and fishing. He has hunted and fished since childhood and has continued enjoying the great outdoors throughout his life, as he finds that immersing himself in nature is the best reset possible. Roy attended his first WWIA event in 2017 and came on as a certified WWIA Guide a few years later. In addition to being a Guide, he also proudly Hosts the New Hampshire Bear & Bass Event, now entering its seventh year.

This is a great conversation between friends, and we’re excited to share part of Roy’s journey with you.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast aims to honor, connect, and provide healing for America's combat wounded veterans.
• Roy Holland, a Purple Heart recipient, shares his journey and experiences in law enforcement and the military.
• The importance of nature and outdoor activities for veterans' mental health is emphasized during the podcast.
• Community support plays a crucial role in the success of events designed for combat wounded veterans, as highlighted by Roy's efforts.

Our mission would not be possible without the tremendous support and generosity from so many selfless Patriots across North America who go above and beyond to honor the service and sacrifices of America’s combat-wounded Veterans.

Today’s guest on the WWIA Podcast is one of these special Patriots who has proven time and time again that there is truly no limit to the good works that can be accomplished, and the contributions and impacts that can be made, when people work together for a common cause. WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel proudly welcomes long-time WWIA supporter and valued friend, Mr. Mike Davenport to the program.

Mike is the President of the WWIAF Southern Vermont Chapter, alongside his wife Debi, who serves as the Treasurer. Mike and Debi have both recently retired after having had wonderful careers with UNICORR in Bennington, Vermont; and they also relocated to warmer weather, having made the move to the beautiful state of Tennessee.

The WWIA Southern Vermont Chapter is a 2-time WWIA Medal of Honor Decorated Patron, having raised over $559,000 in support of our Purple Heart Heroes since 2013! That is just incredible! John and Mike discussed the early origins of this remarkable fundraising juggernaut, and how the local residents and businesses of Bennington, Vermont come together year after year in support of the mission of WWIA.

There’s a lot to unpack in this episode, and we are excited to introduce you to Mike and his story.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast aims to honor and support combat wounded veterans, emphasizing community involvement.
• Mike Davenport's fundraising efforts have raised over $559,000 for veterans since 2013, showcasing exceptional community spirit.
• The podcast highlights the importance of sponsor appreciation, fostering long-lasting relationships with community businesses.
• John McDaniel and Mike Davenport discuss their shared commitment to expanding the mission of supporting Purple Heart recipients.

On this latest episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel welcomes longtime supporter and WWIA Event Host, Mr. Sandy Deveney to the program. Sandy is the Host of the Central PA Cast & Blast, an outstanding event that has been proudly honoring and serving our combat-wounded veterans for the past 11 years.

For 40 years, Sandy has been married to his beautiful wife Elizabeth, a retired teacher, and an accomplished artist. Sandy has had an eclectic and distinguished career. Following his graduation from Penn State with a degree in Law Enforcement and Corrections, Sandy served across the globe as a U.S. Customs Sky Marshall, a Criminal Investigator, Founder of a utility-based K-9 drug detection program, and a Private Detective, specializing in K-9 drug detection. His service-based career allowed him the privilege to work on both the local and federal levels, assisting law enforcement, corporations, and school districts.

Now enjoying retirement, Sandy continues to serve in his work with WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes, as well as assisting with the Penn State Alumni Trustee elections for over a decade. Sandy and his wife are also involved with the local Wildlife for Everyone Foundation, where he serves as a Board Member and Elizabeth generously donates her artwork for their Spring Gala. We’re honored to spend some time introducing you to Sandy and look forward to you hearing his story.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast endeavors to bring honor, connection, and healing to combat wounded veterans.
• Sandy Deveney has dedicated over a decade to supporting combat-wounded veterans through various outdoor events.
• The podcast highlights the unique experiences gained from engaging with local wildlife and the Amish community.
• Sandy's extensive background and commitment have significantly enriched the experiences provided to the participants.
• The camaraderie fostered through shared experiences among veterans has proven to be immensely beneficial for their healing process.
• Community support plays a crucial role in the success of the events organized for the veterans.

Takeaways:

• Alan Probst emphasizes the importance of quality video and sound in outdoor educational content.
• Patience is crucial for successful trapping, especially when working with coyotes and other canines.
• Bedding traps properly is essential to ensure they function correctly and catch target animals.
• North American Trapper aims to educate the public about responsible and effective trapping methods.
• Alan's philosophy includes being open with his trapping knowledge, contrasting with many secretive trappers.
• Engaging kids in trapping through easy-to-use tools can inspire the next generation of trappers.

Links referenced in this episode:

• northamericantrapper.com
• wwiaf.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• North American Trapper
• Duke
• Sportsman Channel
• NRA

At every WWIA event, there is a certified WWIA Guide present. WWIA Guides are an essential part of accomplishing our mission, as they have been recommended by their fellow Purple Heart peers and are certified through our WWIA Guide School. WWIA Guide School is the world’s first multidisciplinary adaptive sporting guide program and prepares our Guides to lead and serve their fellow Purple Heart recipients and assist the event Hosts on each WWIA mission we conduct across North America.

On today’s episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, is honored to welcome Purple Heart Hero and WWIA Guide, Gabe Fierros to the program. Gabe, along with his wife and son, reside in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. Gabe joined the Army after high school and was deployed to Iraq three times during his service. After being medically retired from the Army, Gabe worked in Anchorage, Alaska as a contractor for the Army. He later relocated to northeast Pennsylvania and took a federal position with Tobyhanna Army Depot, where he continues his career.

Gabe initially heard about WWIA from one of the guys in his unit and soon after attended his first duck hunting event in southwestern Ohio. He found it both relaxing and cathartic to be around like-minded people who understood his experiences and found that the camaraderie and experience was just what he needed. Gabe now proudly leads WWIA events as a Guide and enjoys giving back to his fellow combat-wounded Warriors. We hope you enjoy getting to know Gabe and hearing more about his story. Let’s join the conversation with John and Gabe now.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast focuses on bringing honor and healing to America's combat wounded veterans.
• Gabe Fierros shares his journey from soldier to guide, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie.
• The WWIA Guide School prepares veterans to support their peers during outdoor events.
• Gabe's experiences highlight the therapeutic value of outdoor activities for healing.
• The foundation creates a space for veterans to reconnect and bond over shared experiences.
• Gabe's story underscores the significance of mentorship and support within the veteran community.

Links referenced in this episode:

• wwiaf.org

The WWIA MO-KAN Ducks, Bucks, and Trapping Event has been proudly serving and honoring our Purple Heart Heroes for the past 15 years. It is one of our longest standing events within the Foundation, and their patriotic team of supporters are truly a remarkable group of people. On today’s episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, welcomes one of our good friends who is one of the integral parts of Mighty Team MO-KAN, Mr. Terry Supple.

Terry recently retired after successfully owning and operating his own screen printing and sign business for 44 years. He has been married to his beautiful wife for 42 years, is the father of three amazing children, is a doting grandfather to nine grandchildren, as well as two dogs.

An avid hunter for over 40 years, enjoying both quail and duck hunting, he enjoys the quality and experience of the hunt, including the company and camaraderie of those he surrounds himself with more than anything else. He considers it a high honor and privilege to serve America’s combat-wounded veterans with his team over the past fifteen years and always feels he gets more out of the experience than they do. We’re proud to share this great American’s story with you and hope you get to enjoy learning more about Terry and Team MO-KAN.

Takeaways:

• The MO-KAN Ducks, Bucks and Trapping event has significantly impacted combat wounded veterans for 15 years.
• Terry Supple shares how the Napier Duck Hunting Club evolved over the years from humble beginnings.
• Camaraderie and connection among veterans are fostered through shared experiences in nature at events.
• Combat-wounded veterans often find healing and support through engaging activities and shared stories.
• The emotional toll of serving veterans is significant, often leaving organizers feeling drained yet fulfilled.
• Terry emphasizes the importance of welcoming Vietnam veterans home, as they were not honored in their time.

Links referenced in this episode:

• wwiaf.org