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

ABLEnow

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

ABLEnow

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

ABLEnow

On this episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO John McDaniel proudly welcomes two exceptional American Patriots to the show. Purple Heart Recipients and WWIA Guides Jake Whipkey and Matt Brannon join John for an engaging conversation on leadership.

Jake Whipkey served five years in the U.S. Army, 101st ABN division, stationed at Fort Campbell Kentucky. He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds he received while serving his second tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. This tour was cut short on November 18, 2007, when he was wounded while under fire in Suh-marr-uh, Iraq. After being medically retired in December of 2009, Jake returned to Boswell, Pennsylvania, his hometown, where he lives today.

He joined WWIA in 2010 and has been leading numerous events across the country ever since. He is a successful fisherman and hunter and has harvested small game, turkeys, wild boar, white tail deer and bear in his hunting lifetime. Matt Brannon’s life has been dedicated to the service of his country and others.

Matt is a proud husband and father; a United States Army Purple Heart Veteran; a certified WWIA Guide; Event Host of the Alabama Turkey and Hog Hunt, and a WWIA Board Member. Matt has served in Law Enforcement for the past 13 years. He is a Special Agent--Senior, working for the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation and currently assigned to the Narcotics division, working on the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force. He also holds full credentials with Homeland Security/ICE. Matt strongly believes in the healing power of the great outdoors and the mission of WWIA.

This is an outstanding episode that we are honored to share with you.

Takeaways:

1. The WWIA Podcast emphasizes the importance of leadership in supporting America's combat-wounded Purple Heart heroes through the power of outdoor activities.
2. Jake Whipkey and Matt Brannon, exemplary Purple Heart recipients, share their transformative experiences with the WWIA Foundation and its mission.
3. The podcast highlights the significance of community involvement and the positive impact it has on the lives of veterans through shared outdoor experiences.
4. Leadership in the context of the WWIA Foundation is defined as providing purpose, direction, and motivation to enhance the experiences of combat-wounded veterans.

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

ABLEnow

Our mission is made possible because of the tremendous generosity and support of patriotic people and businesses across North America. On this episode of the WWIA Podcast, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel welcomes one of these American Patriots, and an outstanding supporter and friend of the Foundation, Mr. Kyle Bennett to the show.

Kyle is the General Manager at Kabco Builders, Inc., which designs and constructs high-quality manufactured homes and employs 225 people in beautiful Boaz, Alabama.

In 2018, Kyle became the youngest General Manager of a production plant in the manufactured housing industry at just 35 years of age. He and his wife of 18 years, Lacy, share three incredible children together, ages 17, 14, and 12.

Kyle is a proud alumnus of the University of Alabama, where he played football for the Crimson Tide from 2002 to 2005 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. This is a great episode that we’re excited to share with you.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast aims to honor and support America's combat wounded veterans through various initiatives.
• Kyle Bennett, a notable supporter and friend of the Foundation, is the General Manager of Kabco Builders and has significantly contributed to our mission by building and donating a beautiful home to WWIA's Camp Hackett in Phillips, WI.
• The podcast discusses the importance of leadership and the impact of personal stories shared by veterans and their families.
• Kyle highlights the value of maintaining high standards in business and how it reflects on the overall quality of work produced.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• WWIA
• Kabco Builders Inc.
• University of Alabama

Mentioned in this episode:

Kabco Builders Proudly Sponsors this Episode of the WWIA Podcast

This episode of the WWIA Podcast is proudly sponsored by Kabco Builders—a company built on integrity, craftsmanship, and a deep commitment to those who’ve served. Kabco is honored to support the mission of Wounded Warriors in Action, bringing healing and connection to our combat-wounded Heroes. We salute our veterans and believe in building more than homes—we’re building stronger communities, together. Thank you, Kabco Builders, for standing with our Heroes.

We have another exceptional guest on this episode of the WWIA Podcast. WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel is honored to share some time and a wonderful conversation with one of America’s tremendous Purple Heart Heroes, and a steadfast friend and supporter of our mission, Mr. Jeremy Smith.

Jeremy 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.

Jeremy attended his first WWIA event in 2011 and graduated from the Inaugural WWIA Guide School in 2016.

He has been an active member of WWIA, leading events all over the country. It is with great pride that we introduce you to Jeremy and share some of his journey with you.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast highlights the profound journeys of America's Purple Heart heroes, focusing on their resilience and healing.
• John McDaniel, the founder, emphasizes the importance of bringing honor and connection to combat-wounded veterans.
• Jeremy Smith, a guest on the podcast, shares his experiences of service, injury, and eventual healing through outdoor activities.
• The episode discusses the therapeutic benefits of nature for veterans, showcasing how outdoor adventures aid in recovery.
• Listeners are encouraged to support the WWIA mission by spreading awareness and participating in events.
• The podcast illustrates the strong bonds formed among veterans during shared outdoor experiences, which significantly contribute to their healing.

We’ve got another outstanding episode in store for you today, as WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel proudly welcomes an American Hero and friend of the Foundation to the podcast. Today, we are joined by Purple Heart recipient and WWIA Guide, Mr. Eddie Hoffmann.

Eddie grew up outside of Tampa, Florida, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in early 2001 as an 0311. Eddie was assigned to Third Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment and deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, 2004 and 2005-06. During his final deployment, Eddie was injured by an Improvised Explosive Device and subsequently awarded the Purple Heart Medal for his wounds. Eddie would finish his 8 1/2-year career with Weapons and Field Training Platoon at Recruit Training Depot, Paris Island, SC, before being medically retired in February 2010.

Shortly after retirement, Eddie enrolled at the University of Tampa and returned to his hometown with his wife, Mollie. After graduating in2013, Eddie began working in various roles in Mental Health as a Peer Specialist in the VA and continues in this role today. Eddie is an avid deer and turkey hunter and enjoys surf fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. He has a daughter and a son who accompany him on outdoor adventures whenever possible. We look forward to sharing Eddie’s story with you and allowing you to get to know him better.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast aims to honor and support combat wounded Veterans by connecting them through shared experiences and healing activities.

• Eddie Hoffmann, a Purple Heart recipient, shares his journey from enlistment in the Marine Corps to his challenges and triumphs in combat and recovery.

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of camaraderie and support among veterans, illustrating how shared experiences can foster healing and connection.

• Eddie's transition from military service to a career in mental health highlights the significance of peer support in navigating the complexities of post-combat life.

• The discussion includes the therapeutic effects of outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing, in aiding veterans' emotional and psychological recovery.

• The podcast underscores the necessity of community involvement and the impact of volunteer efforts in supporting veterans' reintegration into civilian life.

Today, WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, welcomes an outstanding Purple Heart Hero, WWIA Guide, and longstanding friend of the Foundation to the podcast, as Mr. Derek Duplisea joins us. Derek is originally from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada but was born in the USA.

Derek served a total of 5 years with the 1st Battalion, Royal New Brunswick Regiment (Carleton & York) as an infantryman, leaving the Canadian Armed Forces as a master corporal before enlisting in the U.S. Army.

During his second tour in Iraq, Derek was leading a patrol with 2nd platoon, Able Troop, 1st Squadron, 32nd Cavalry Regiment, when his unit was hit by a female suicide bomber and heavy small arms fire. The blast detonated within feet of the dismounted members of the platoon, severely wounding Derek and three of his Soldiers. He spent two years recovering from his wounds before medically retiring from the Army.

Derek has been a WWIA Associate since 2010 and leads events all over the USA and Canada and graduated from the Inaugural WWIA Guide School in 2016. He is married to his Canadian sweetheart Andrea and has four wonderful children.

He loves to spend his free time traveling, hiking, camping, hunting & fishing with friends and family.

Derek holds a BS in Criminal Justice from Troy University and an MBA from University of Phoenix. He has worked in the mental health profession for several years and is a manager at Aroostook Mental Health Center on their adult crisis stabilization unit in Callus, Maine.

Takeaways:

• The WWIA Podcast aims to honor and support America's combat wounded Purple Heart heroes, fostering healing and connection through shared experiences.
• Derek Duplisea, a Purple Heart recipient, shares his harrowing story of surviving a suicide bombing during his military service in Iraq, highlighting the chaos and violence of war.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of leadership and contingency planning, detailing how Derek's military training prepared him and his team to effectively respond to crises in combat situations.
• Derek's transition from military service to working in mental health illustrates his commitment to helping others, demonstrating resilience in the face of personal trauma and adversity.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• WWIA
• Troy University
• University of Phoenix
• Raytheon
• Aroostook Mental Health Center
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

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.