Ep 5: Overcoming Mental Health Stigmas In The Navy with Darryl Howell

We are honored to have Joseph Daly on the show with us today. Joseph is the Chief of Police for Springfield Township and a former U.S. Marine, serving two tours in Vietnam. During his time of service, Joseph received a Bronze Star, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Purple Heart. 

Join us as Joseph reflects on his remarkable journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to a lifelong career in law enforcement. Throughout our conversation, Joseph reflects on the challenges he faced upon returning home and the vital role that camaraderie and seeking help played in his healing process.

Stay tuned for a powerful reminder that, even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.

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

0:00 - Intro
1:30 – Joseph’s time in service
4:16 –Joseph’s battle with survivor guilt + functioning post-traumatic stress
8:45 – Finding support and closure through connecting with fellow veterans
10:27 – Joseph’s transition from the military to the police force
12:58 – Seeking help without hesitation + treating others with kindness
16:13 – Joseph’s message of hope for our listeners

JOSEPH J. DALY

Joseph J. Daly started his career as a police officer in March of 1970 and has served as the Springfield Township Chief of Police since January 2009. Prior to police work, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1967 to 1969, where he was promoted and served as Combat Field Sergeant. He completed two tours in Vietnam, finishing his last tour as a Weapons Platoon Commander. During his service, Joseph received a Bronze Star, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and the Purple Heart. 

Married: For 52 years to Donna, three children; Denis (Wife Amy), Donna Noga (Husband Christopher), and Tracy O’Connell (Husband Paul). Five grandchildren; Olivia Payton Noga, Matthew Joseph Daly, Nicholas Christopher Noga, Allison Paige Daly, and Paul Joseph O’Connell

Education: Monsignor Bonner High School, FBI National Academy, Law Enforcement-related courses with Temple and Penn State Universities, Carnegie Leadership School, University of Virginia Executive Development, FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development course

Hobbies: Spending time with grandchildren, reading, fishing and physical fitness

EPISODE LINKS

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

https://www.va.gov/

https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/


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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We have a fantastic conversation for you today. We are joined by Andrew Nelson, a Marine Corps veteran who served for 10 years and completed two combat tours. He’s here to discuss his experiences during and after his service, highlighting the challenges he faced and the support systems that helped him navigate through them. 

From finding purposeful work to seeking therapy and building a support network, Andrew offers valuable insights and advice for fellow veterans. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of courage, recovery, and perseverance, and gain valuable perspective on the transition from military to civilian life.

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

0:00 - Intro
2:03 - Andrew’s decision to join the Marine Corps, experience in the military, and work with the Department of Veteran Affairs
7:22 – How having a strong support system helped Andrew transition to civilian life
13:22 – Andrew’s decision to start talk therapy with the VA
16:24 – Andrew’s involvement with community service and commitment to serving those in need
19:43 –  Andrew’s advice and recommendations for fellow veterans

Andrew Nelson

Andrew E. Nelson was raised in the city of Chester, PA and graduated Chester High School in 2004. At 19 years old he joined the United States Marine Corps. After ten years and two combat tours, Iraq in 2008 and Afghanistan in 2011, he completed his career as a Staff Noncommissioned Officer in the Marines and was honorably discharged. After the Corps, he began working in government with roles ranging from federal with the Department of Veteran Affairs to local municipalities.

He graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a B.S., and a MBA from Fox School of Business at Temple University. 

He is the proud father of 3 amazing children--Amoni, Ariya, and Andrew II. His experiences in life have inevitably shaped his perspectives and personal credo to be pro-community. He came back to Delco, purchased his home, and began working to make a difference by sharing his experiences and working to help our communities flourish.

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are excited to sit down with Keith Moore and Danielle Veltri from EDSI (Educational Data Systems Incorporated) in today’s show. EDSI is a workforce development company that started in Dearborn, Michigan, and now operates in 30-40 offices across the US. 

Listen in to learn how EDSI supports veterans in their post-military journey through job placement assistance, training, case management services, and behavioral health advocacy. Keith and Danielle discuss the unique challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life and the importance of having a veteran-focused team to provide support.

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

0:00 - Intro
1:48 - EDSI’s origin + how they help assist veterans with job readiness 
3:20 – The importance of having a veteran staff + where you can find EDSI locally and online
7:01 – Finding meaningful job placements for veterans
8:12 - Identifying transferable skills for employment + the diverse services provided by EDSI
13:40 – Dual enrollment in the EDSI program +  taking the first step

Keith Moore

Keith Moore, a Business Service Representative, has dedicated 7 years to his role at EDSI. He takes pleasure in utilizing his skills to offer career opportunities to job seekers within the programs. Graduating from Eastern University in 2007 with a bachelor's degree in Organizational Management, Keith earned the Distinguished Applied Research Project Award during his time in school. This recognition was granted for his exemplary academic performance and leadership skills in developing a strategic business plan for a nonprofit organization.

Danielle Veltri

Danielle Veltri has been with EDSI for 19 years, serving as the Business Services Team Lead at the Delaware County EARN Center. With approximately 30 years in the Social Service field, she has always been driven to help people. Danielle and her team are responsible for recruiting employers willing to hire veteran clients. They host hiring events, encouraging face-to-face conversations rather than just resume submissions. Constantly working to connect great candidates with employers, Danielle finds great happiness when clients share their employment success stories, knowing her team played a role.

EPISODE LINKS

EDSI Delaware EARN Center

https://bit.ly/3HGWLZK

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Join us for an inspiring episode with Colonel Arthur "Art" L. Jenkins, Jr.  We’ll learn more about his 40-year military journey, from his early enlistment to leading as the Taskforce Medical Commander for Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) in 2021, and what he has learned about veteran hardships along the way. 

Stay tuned as Art talks about the important role that mentorship played throughout his life and discusses the need for veterans to come together and support one another. Now serving as the Delaware County Director for the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs in Pennsylvania, he aims to raise awareness about the health and financial benefits available to veterans and their families.

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

0:00 - Intro
2:22 – Art’s background in the military
9:36 - The challenges and diverse experiences of military service
12:38 - Connecting veterans with the right resources
21:27 – Art’s new role at the Delaware County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Colonel Arthur L. Jenkins, Jr.

"Art" completed Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and graduated from Reserve Component Officer Candidate School. Commanding the 2290th United States Army Hospital in Washington D.C., he was appointed as Commander of the Department of Defense's largest Wounded Warrior Company for Reservists and National Guardsmen.  Art served as the Mobilization Medical Officer for the Military Intelligence Readiness Command and led the 1493rd Combat and Operational Stress Control Battalion, co-authoring the SWAT concept for stress reduction among Servicememembers and their families.

After Resident War College, he became Deputy Commander of the Innovation Army and Applications Group. In 2021, as the Taskforce Medical Commander for Operation Allies Welcome, he aided in resettling over 50,000 Afghan Allies in the U.S. and oversaw significant clinical operations during the COVID pandemic.

His accolades include the Meritorious Service Medal (4), Army Commendation Medal (5), Army Achievement Medal (4), and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal with Bronze Device (2). Art, the only Medical Geneticist in the Army Reserves, contributed significantly to education and STEM initiatives, completing an advanced curriculum at the Howard University School of Medicine. He is married to Nicole and has four children. 

EPISODE LINKS

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

https://www.delcopa.gov/vetaffairs/index.html

Delaware County Veterans ID Discount Program

https://www.delcopa.gov/vetaffairs/discountprogram.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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Dr. Nick Maio is joining us to kick off the new year. He is here to share his story, from an unstable early life to a challenging military deployment to Iraq, which left him vulnerable to PTSD. Ultimately, Nick was able to overcome depression, anxiety, and substance abuse through the support of his loved ones and VA resources.

Listen in as he shares how he reclaimed his life, became a chiropractor, and now serves as a resource for veterans in Bucks County, PA. In addition to his inspiring story, this episode also features essential resources for veterans, including the YMCA Veteran’s Wellness Program, Shamrock Reins for Equine Therapy, and more. 

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

0:00 - Intro
2:29 – Nick’s path to the military 
5:56 - Nick’s struggle with addiction and PTSD
11:15 - The “three Jenns” that saved Nick’s life
17:07 – Nick’s advice for moving forward from trauma
22:40 – Free chiropractic care through the VA + additional resources 

Dr. Nick Maio

Dr. Nick Maio, a former Army National Guard medic, embarked on his military journey in 2003 in Petersburg, Virginia, deploying to Iraq in 2005 with a military police unit.  While his time spent in Iraq was difficult, the following three years proved to be the toughest, marked by depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, which led to isolation from family and the military. That all changed when he got a call from a New Jersey National Guard unit mobilizing to Iraq.

In 2008, he began training for his second tour in Iraq. This was a challenge for Dr. Nick, as he was still battling substance abuse and lost two close friends tragically while training in Texas. Instead of a deployment, he was admitted to the VA hospital in Coatesville, PA, for substance abuse treatment. Completing the PTSD program and spending months in a homeless domiciliary, he gradually rebuilt his life.

It was not easy, but with a lot of persistence and support from both the VA and family, Dr. Nick reclaimed his life, met his wife, and became a chiropractor. Today, he helps people who are suffering daily and credits his suffering with providing him with a wealth of empathy which he uses to connect with and help his patient population.

EPISODE LINKS

YMCA Veterans Wellness Program: https://bit.ly/48lpUVN

Shamrock Reins Horse Farm with PTSD Therapy: https://shamrockreins.org/

Chase Bank Resources: https://www.chase.com/digital/military/personal

Chalfont VFW Resources: https://www.chalfont-vfw.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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

During the holiday season, it's crucial to recognize the unique challenges faced by service members and their families. Valerie Melroy, the CEO of Voice and Vision, joins us in this week's episode. As a former military spouse and mother of a Marine, she shares some first-hand insights into the difficulties of managing family life when loved ones are deployed. 

Reverend Ben then reflects on his own experiences during deployments and highlights the importance of mental health awareness and community support, especially during the holidays.

If you find this time of year difficult, know that you're not alone. Listen in as we share some resources to help veterans and their families navigate the complexities of military life. 

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

1:30 – Valerie’s family + their military background
3:55 – The hardships of the holiday season for service members and their families
9:17 – An increase in suicide rates this time of year + reaching out for help
15:38 – Powerful resources for veterans and their families


Valerie Melroy:

Valerie, Co-founder (1997) and CEO of Voice and Vision, Inc., is driven by the call of God, love for people, and a passion for justice and freedom. Armed with a Bachelor of Ministry and a Master of Human Service degree from Lincoln University, she operates the non-profit with a heart for serving others. Beyond her work, Valerie finds joy in gardening, travel, and quality time with her family, including 17 grandchildren.

Reverend Ben:

Benjamin, a southwest Philadelphia native and Navy veteran, served as a Hospital Corpsman during Desert Storm. He was deployed to Diego Garcia and Okinawa, and was attached to Fox Company in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Post-military, Ben worked in a men’s shelter, gaining diverse experiences in mental health and addiction recovery. While battling cancer, he earned an associate degree in biblical science from Lancaster Bible College. In 2019, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in human services and is pursuing a master’s in counseling, set to graduate in 2024.

Now Assistant Pastor and Outreach Coordinator at Philadelphia Baptist Church, he runs a food cupboard aiding 150-200 families weekly. With his wife, Marcia, they serve with the love of Christ, helping alleviate suffering in West Philly.

EPISODE LINKS

Military OneSource: https://bit.ly/473on5A

Steven Cohen Military Family Clinic: https://www.med.upenn.edu/mfc/

The VA: https://www.va.gov/


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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are honored to be joined by Matt Brown in today’s episode. Matt served in the Navy for over 12 years, holding various leadership and operational roles. Today, he is the CEO of Chimney Trail Health, which aims to eliminate destructive anxiety, depression, and suicide within the military. 

We’ll learn more about Matt's time in the service and how Chimney Trail Health is providing essential tools for service members to navigate mental health challenges through a unique blend of cognitive behavioral therapy and outdoor activities. Stay tuned as Matt shares some powerful insights into the pressing issue of mental health within the military, the impact on recruitment, and how Chimney Trail Health is stepping up to address the crisis.

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

2:39 – Matt’s time in the Navy
5:28 – The origins of Chimney Trail Health
8:57 – Mental health support for active military
13:12 – Recruitment challenges for the armed forces
17:10 – Asking for help + getting involved with Chimney Trail
22:06 – Finding today’s purpose


Matthew Brown:

Matthew Brown served in the US Navy for twelve years. He held various leadership and operational roles, culminating in command of USS Scout (MCM 8). He is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and is a Bochnowski Family Fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution. He now leads the behavioral healthcare company Chimney Trail Health, which aims to eliminate destructive anxiety, depression, and suicide through training in preventive cognitive behavioral therapy.

EPISODE LINKS

https://www.chimneytrailhealth.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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Join us for a powerful conversation with Chad Robichaux, BCPC, MBA, a Force Recon veteran, best-selling author, MMA champion, and founder of Mighty Oaks Foundation. In this episode, Chad shares his incredible military journey, his battle with PTSD, and the profound healing he found in faith.

You’ll also learn more about the programs offered by the Mighty Oaks Foundation, including faith-based peer-to-peer mentoring and advocacy for veterans' care and policies. Throughout this discussion, Chad reflects on the importance of finding strength in vulnerability and never fighting alone. 

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

• 2:01 - Chad’s experience in the Marines, struggle with mental health, and journey to finding God
• 12:27 - Founding the Mighty Oaks Foundation + the mission to rescue Aziz, his family, and 17,000 others 
• 18:57 - Seeking help and not facing struggles alone
• 27: 42 – Your mission and purpose continues beyond military service

Chad M. Robichaux:

Chad stands as a distinguished USMC Force Recon veteran, best selling author, and pro MMA champion. Having triumphed over personal battles with PTSD after eight deployments to Afghanistan as part of a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) Task Force, Chad founded the Mighty Oaks Foundation. This renowned non-profit delivers faith-based combat trauma and resiliency programs to active-duty military, veterans, and first responders globally. His journey with Mighty Oaks includes serving over 500,000 active-duty troops and leading life-saving initiatives for more than 5,000 military and veterans across the nation.  

Notably, Chad co-founded two separate non-profit organizations devoted to rescuing Americans and vulnerable groups in international conflict zones. His unwavering compassion and servant heart led him and his team on daring missions to rescue and protect trapped individuals in Afghanistan and Ukraine. His book "Saving Aziz" chronicles a daring rescue operation in Afghanistan and became a national bestseller, captivating readers with its compelling narrative. 

In addition to his remarkable military service, Chad is a Medal of Valor recipient and a 4th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under the esteemed Master Carlson Gracie Jr. As a former Professional Mixed Martial Arts Champion, he exemplifies dedication to martial arts. Chad cherishes his loving family, including his three children and three granddaughters, and shares his lifelong passion for martial arts with his sons. Through his strength, resilience, and selflessness, Chad Robichaux remains an inspiring figure to many.

EPISODE LINKS

https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/


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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Today we are joined by Michael Bate, a veteran who served 21 years in the Marine Corps and is now a EDSI (Educational Data Assist Incorporated) veteran career coach. After a remarkable career in the military, Mike discovered the challenges of transitioning to civilian life firsthand. 

He's here to share his story, from his personal struggle with this transition to finding support through a veterans career program. Join us as Mike discusses the challenges many veterans face in finding post-service purpose and shares valuable advice and resources for those going through this major life change.  

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

0:00 - Intro
1:24 – Mike’s time in the service + becoming a veteran career coach 
6:49 – Finding purpose after the military
9:31 - Translating military skills to civilian skills + reaching out for help
11:37 – The EDSI process
14:08 – Don’t devalue your accomplishments and forget who you are

Mike Bate

Mike joined the Marine Corps in 1997 and retired as a Master Sergeant (Operation Chief) after 21 years of honorable service. During his career, he served in various infantry units while leading and mentoring over 2,500 Marines.

Following retirement, Mike faced a challenging transition to civilian life, which took nearly two years to navigate. However, his life transformed after going through a veterans career program in California. He realized his difficulty stemmed from not marketing himself effectively in the civilian job market.

Upon completing the program, Mike regained a sense of purpose. He recently moved to New Jersey with his son and joined EDSI as a veterans career coach. EDSI's mission to "Show up, Smile, and Support" resonates with him, understanding the positive impact a program like this can have on veterans. Today, he is dedicated to helping veterans in Delco County find employment and successfully transition from military service to the civilian workforce.

EPISODE LINKS

Get in touch with Mike: michaelbate@edsi.com

EDSI: https://bit.ly/3FFwFVW

EDSI Instagram: https://bit.ly/40qBVWX

EDSI Website: https://bit.ly/3QjZ491

Military OneSource: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/

PA Careerlink: https://bit.ly/40hBY7w

Veteran Suicide Prevention: https://bit.ly/40jLtD6

VMC Center: https://www.vmcenter.org/


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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We're back to continue our conversation with Chaplain Justin Cohen, who shared his powerful story with us in the previous episode. Chaplin Cohen has dedicated his life to helping others and is here to share valuable insights into the challenges veterans face, from battling mental health issues like PTSD to rediscovering their sense of purpose.

In part two of our discussion, Chaplain Cohen dives deeper into the critical role of building a support network for veterans and the power of effective communication in preventing suicide. As the conversation unfolds, you'll gain valuable insights into how individuals and organizations can better support veterans on their path to healing and reintegration. Chaplin Cohen also shares great resources for veterans looking for help and is here to remind us that no one needs to suffer alone. 

Highlights of this episode:

0:00 - Intro
1:43 – A network of support + the importance of communication
7:45 – Helping people find purpose
12:11 – Supporting veterans with PTSD
16:25 – Chaplin Cohen’s advice for civilians who want to help
18:07 – Resources for veterans looking for assistance

Chaplain Justin Cohen:

Justin Cohen was born and raised in the Oxford Circle section of Northeast Philadelphia on May 17, 1969. He received the call to ministry in a vision at the age of 11, but rejected it throughout his teen years of rebellion. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the US Navy as an Inventory Manager, determined to pursue a career in business, but God had another plan.

During a crisis period in his life, Bishop Cohen received his PERSONAL salvation, receiving Jesus Christ as his Savior through the personal ministry of a faithful deacon at Trinity Baptist Church of Jacksonville, FL where he was eventually water baptized and disciples.

Upon successful ministerial internship under the direction of the late Rev. Dr. Harold Vick and graduation from Jacksonville Theological Seminary in 1995, he returned to Philadelphia. In 2001, He founded World Harvest. He's a 2004 graduate of the Carolina University of Theology, earning a Master of Theology degree with a specialization in Ecclesiology, which became the basis for his subsequent book, Unwrapped.

He is a member of the National Association of Veterans Affairs Chaplains, the Spiritual Care Association, the Military Chaplains Association, and the American Association of Christian Counselors.

LINKS FOR THIS EPISODE 

Get in touch with Chaplain Cohen:

http://chaplaincohen.us/ or call 610-931-7182

https://www.caring.com/caregivers/veterans-benefits/

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.