Tango Alpha Lima Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Mental Wellness”

Episode 275: A transgender service member speaks out about being forced out

The American Legion — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

250 ways to participate in The American Legion USA 250 Challenge

THE INTERVIEW
Col. Bree Fram, a transgender Space Force member, is being forced out of the military and end her 23-year service that began with the Air Force. Fram is currently headed toward retirement due to President Trump’s prohibition on transgender service that was implemented in 2025. The White House implemented the transgender ban through an Executive Order and Department of Defense (DoD) policies. Fram speaks as a civilian as she discusses her time in the military, issues related to her transition and more.

SCUTTLEBUTT
Army moves to dismantle most ceremonial horse units

How WWII helped normalize tattoos

MOH recipient Clint Romesha is getting a new comic book highlighting his actions in Afghanistan

Special Guest: Col. Bree Fram.

Links:

Episode 274: How to overcome the broken veteran narrative with Kevin Schmiegel - Tango Alpha Lima

The American Legion — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

250 years of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps

THE INTERVIEW
Retired Marine Lt. Col. Kevin Schmiegel is helping fellow veterans to thrive instead of falling to the broken veteran narrative. Schmiegel, who previously founded Hiring Our Heroes, is now leading ZeroMils. Schmiegel shares how ZeroMills is breaking the broken veteran narrative by creating a military thriving movement.

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Coast Guardsman on his first mission helped save 165 Texas flash flood victims

Not-so-hot pursuit! Charleston, S.C. police chase a burglary suspect going 3 mph on a tractor excavator

Special Guest: Kevin Schmiegel.

Links:

Episode 271: Guiding veterans to healing and mentoring the next generation with Bart Womack – Tango Alpha Lima

The American Legion — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

OTDIH: The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence

THE INTERVIEW
Retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bart Womack discusses creating an equine therapy facility for veterans with PTSD; mentoring ROTC cadets; his book, “Embedded Enemy,” which is about an insider terrorist attack; and more

SCUTTLEBUTT
Mapping US troops and military bases in the Middle East

Navy destroyer, air defense systems help intercept Iranian missiles

Special Guest: Bart Womack.

Links:

Episode 267: How to heal through mind-body wellness with Dr. Aletha Williams - Tango Alpha Lima

The American Legion — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Navy combat veteran, cancer survivor and mental wellness expert Aletha Williams shares how meditation and mind-body wellness has helped her learn how to let go of things that no longer serve her. As the founder of Inner Starr Compass Healing, she now helps individuals heal through inner wisdom, creativity and intuition. Learn more about how she helps others overcome PTSD and other mental health issues through a mind-body connection.

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90 years of Alcoholics Anonymous - founded by World War I veteran Bill Wilson

Woman charged after pet raccoon found with meth pipe

Special Guest: Dr. Aletha Williams.

Links:

Episode 260: Supporting other veterans in crisis with Vic Martin

The American Legion — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

American Legion Family Day

THE INTERVIEW
Navy veteran Vic Martin struggled after suffering a brain injury, receiving mental health diagnoses and being medically retired. After hitting bottom and attempting suicide, Martin now dedicates his life to helping others find their purpose and the mental health care they need.

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World Autism Awareness month: Neurodivergent Veterans

Florida American Legion Riders gearing up for massive Boots on the Ground Poker Run

Military nicknames - usually born of our less-than-heroic moments

Special Guest: Vic Martin.

Links:

Episode 259: Brain cancer survivor runs 500th marathon at Boston Marathon

The American Legion — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Marine Corps veteran Hank Donigan has survived brain cancer and coped with severe PTSD. He has transformed personal adversity into extraordinary achievement. On Monday, April 21, Donigan will complete his 500th marathon at the 2025 Boston Marathon, a testament to his resilience and dedication.

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How Comic Legend Mel Brooks Defused Land Mines During World War II

The worst military smells for Sony to add to its video games

Special Guest: Hank Donigan.

Links:

Watch video of this episode on YouTube
Be The One | The American Legion
Hank Donigan - Semper Fi & America's Fund Community Athlete Team
Home - Semper Fi & America's Fund
Boston Marathon | Boston Athletic Association
How Comic Legend Mel Brooks Defused Land Mines During World War II | Military.com
The Worst Military Smells for Sony to Add to its Video Games | Military.com — The Worst Military Smells for Sony to Add to its Video Games

Episode 245: Iraqi-born interpreter's escape to the U.S.

The American Legion — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 06:30:00 -0500

We kick off the new year with a few resolutions and a memory of Sammi, the Iraqi interpreter who worked with Joe and his Marines.

THE INTERVIEW
Mazin Mozan, who served as an interpreter with Stacy in Iraq shares his story of serving with Coalition forces, gaining a Special Immigrant Visa and moving to the United States, and his enlistment in the U.S. Army.

SCUTTLEBUTT
Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net

Thousands of U.S. affiliated Iraqis in harms way due to refugee program delays

'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms

Special Guest: Mazin Mozan.

Links:

Watch video of this episode on YouTube
Join The American Legion
DVIDS - News - Former Iraqi interpreter reacts to plight of Afghans
Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net | The Seattle Times — Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net
Unfulfilled Promises: Thousands of U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis in Harm’s Way Due to Refugee Program Delays | International Refugee Assistance Project — Thousands of U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis in Harm’s Way Due to Refugee Program Delays
'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms | Military.com — 'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms
Clear Path for Veterans | You Found Your Place
TangoAlphaLima

Episode 243: How to help military families thrive

The American Legion — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

THE INTERVIEW
National Military Family Association CEO Besa Pinchotti talks about her family roots in Kosovo, and how her time as a journalist led to her advocacy for American military families. She also explains how NMFA helps meet the immediate needs for military spouses and children as well as advocate for legislation to make permanent changes to support military families.

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Next year’s Congress will feature the most women vet members ever

Bronze Statue of Tuskegee Airman Found After Theft from Detroit City Park

Special Guest: Besa Pinchotti.

Links:

How VA is innovating to prevent veteran suicide

The American Legion — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Department of Veterans Affairs Chief of Innovation, Dr. Indra Sandal, tells the story of how she became a U.S. citizen, why she was drawn to work with veterans and what led to her work to bring new innovations to VA health care.

Dr. Sandal talks about how her work led to VA rideshare programs with Uber and Lyft. She also talks about VA's collaboration with MIT – the Veterans Health Hackathon – which strives to design solutions to the top challenges facing veteran health care, including mental health and veteran suicide.

Special Guest: Dr. Indra Sandal.

Links:

Iraq War documentary filmmaker Jake Rademacher

The American Legion — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Filmmaker Jake Rademacher honors his brothers’ service by creating award-winning movies about their deployments and life after the war. Between 2005-2007, Jake risked everything, including his life, to tell the story of his brothers serving in Iraq in the award-winning feature film, Brothers at War – which has led to resiliency workshops and much more.

20 years later, Jake traveled to four continents to reconnect with his brothers as well as the other elite soldiers and Marines he embedded with during the Iraq War. Intercutting footage past and present, movie watchers are led on an insightful, humorous and moving journey as warfighters explore loss, meaning, and hope on their path from warfighter to veteran.

Jake shares the story of his journey between the two films, his passion for helping servicemembers and now veterans, tell their own stories through resiliency workshops.

Special Guest: Jake Rademacher .

Links:

Episode 235: How to support Blue Star Families

The American Legion — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Blue Star Families founder and CEO, Kathy Roth-Douquet, is dedicated to her organization's mission to reshape the way America supports its military. Kathy shares how her own family's military journey led her to help military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create communities of mutual support.

She discusses how Blue Star Families works to tackle issues faced by military families, such as military spouse unemployment, financial insecurity, and the challenges more than 600,000 families face each year when they relocate to new communities.

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Military costumes for Halloween

Amid setbacks in Ukraine, Russia is stepping up its recruiting efforts.

Dive down the Reddit Rabbit-hole with Tango Alpha Lima

Special Guest: Kathy Roth-Douquet.

Links:

Watch video of this episode on YouTube
Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental - Home
Welcome to Blue Star Families
Do Your Part
More on Do Your Part
Blue Star Welcome Week 2024: Fostering Community and Belonging for Military Families — 600,000 military families who recently moved to a new community.
The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
Coast Guard meets Russian naval vessels in US waters off Alaska coast | Stars and Stripes

A mother's view of veteran suicide prevention

The American Legion — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Suicide awareness advocate Jerri Reed shares the story of losing her son, Iraq War veteran Cody Comacho, who took his own life after a 20-year battle with PTSD. Reed is striving to educate others about the dangers of using psychiatric drugs as PTSD treatment.

Special Guest: Jerri Reed.

Links:

Golden Gate Bridge jump survivor Kevin Hines

The American Legion — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 06:30:00 -0400

Kevin Hines jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge in 2000 and lived to tell about it. While the suicide attempt broke his body, it did not break his spirit, and he has since dedicated his life to helping others overcome mental health challenges and teach them how to love the life they have.

Kevin joins host Amy Forsythe to talk about his own mental-health journey and how he turned his miraculous survival into a role of advocacy and an upcoming movie. "The Net," is a documentary named after a new initiative that prevents suicide on the bridge.

Special Guest: Kevin Hines.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP12: Treatment innovations with OSU researcher Dr. Craig Bryan

The American Legion — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

TROLL PATROL

0 CHAT THIRTY

SCUTTLEBUTT

Special Guest: Dr. Craig Bryan.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One 11: "Operator Syndrome" author, Dr. Chris Frueh

The American Legion — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Dr. Chis Frueh is a professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii who has over thirty years of professional experience working with military veterans, servicemembers, special operators, private defense contractors, and firefighters; and has conducted clinical trials, epidemiology, historical, and neuroscience research.

Dr. Frueh’s discusses his book, "Operator Syndrome" and describes the profound impact that years of extreme sacrifice have had on our military special operators and their loved ones.

Special Guest: Chris Frueh.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP10: Freedom Rhythm CEO and Founder Dr. Tiffany Tajiri

The American Legion — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Our guest is Dr. Tiffany Tajiri, CEO and founder of Freedom Rhythm, PLLC and her non-profit organization, Energy in Motion.

Dr. Tiffany is an Air Force Veteran, former Army Clinic Chief, and the first American woman to publish a faith-based combat recovery book entitled, PEACE AFTER COMBAT, and she is also the wife of a retired Army combat veteran.

Her mission is to inspire people to create a life they love—by teaching them how to harness the incredible power of their mind.

Special Guest: Dr. Tiffany Tajiri .

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP09: "The Keeper" with George Eshleman

The American Legion — Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

George Eshleman is a Desert Storm veteran who shares the story of his own struggle with suicide, and how he found healing and a mission to help others while hiking the Appalachian Trail. His story is told in the new movie, “The Keeper” which opens on Memorial Day.

Special Guest: George Eshleman.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP08: Retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman

The American Legion — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman has mastered the art of getting through tough times. His resilience has inspired thousands, and through his company, SOF Spoken, he has provided inspirational coaching to share his methods for leadership, teamwork and overcoming adversity for businesses, first responders, sports teams, and government organizations.

In this episode of the Be The One podcast, Jason talks about overcoming the military mindset of toughness to end the stigma of asking for mental health assistance, and the importance of seeking out the mulitple treatment options to find the best fit. He also talks about the importance of studying the effects and finding treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury.

Special Guest: Jason Redman.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP07: Healing Breakthrough with Juliana Mercer

The American Legion — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Marine Corps veteran Juliana Mercer, Veteran Advocacy and Public Policy Director of Healing Breakthrough, discusses her work in advocating for the adoption of MDMA-Assisted Therapy in the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

Juliana talks about removing the stigma of psychedelics use, the experience of MDMA-assisted therapy, and the work her organization is doing to fulfill their mission of making this treatment available to veterans in the United States.

Special Guest: Juliana Mercer.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima: Leaping Lizards – Meet the new Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts

The American Legion — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Since there’s an extra day on the calendar, we’re taking the opportunity to introduce the newest members of the Tango Alpha Lima family. Host Stacy Pearsall introduces her new co-hosts, Army veteran Adam Marr and Navy veteran Joe Worley.

Links:

Episode 200: Tango Alpha Lima: Rutgers U. Veteran & Military Services Assistant Director Bryan Adams

The American Legion — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

TROLL PATROL
Why it's important for busy veterans to make time for volunteering in the veteran community.

ZERO CHAT THIRTY
Army veteran Bryan Adams, who famously appeared in the 2008 IAVA Ad Council PSA "Alone", shares how his advocacy for veteran services on college campuses, his experience as a Pat Tillman Foundation Scholar, and his own recovery from combat wounds and PTSD led him to his position as Assistant Director of Rutgers University Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Services.

Adams discusses how his position allows him to help other veterans as they navigate transition from the military and using their GI Bill benefits.

SCUTTLEBUTT
Remembering "Thunder Throat" the Army veteran known for movie trailer voiceovers
Love, American Legion Style – a Valentine's Day truer than the Red, White and Blue.
Turtle Power - history of American submariners

Special Guest: Bryan Adams.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP06: Grunt Style Foundation Founder Tim Jensen

The American Legion — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:45:00 -0500

Tim Jensen serves as Chief Brand Officer of Grunt Style LLC, Chairman of the Grunt Style Foundation and host of several popular veteran-focused podcasts.

A Marine Corps veteran who deployed to Iraq in September 2004 and participated in over 200 combat patrols in the extremely violent Northern Babil Province, Tim is a strong advocate for defending the rights, lives, and well-being of veterans who have defended this country.

Tim discusses his military experience, how that led to his leadership role at Grunt Style LLC, and ultimately the Grunt Style Foundation, where he leads a team on a mission to provide resources and experiences that support veterans and servicemembers facing challenges with mental health, military transition, food insecurity and homelessness.

Special Guest: Tim Jensen.

Links:

Episode 197: Tango Alpha Lima: U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy

The American Legion — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

TROLL PATROL
Ashley and Stacy clarify a misunderstanding about service officers from Grunt4Life.
There are 16 billion reasons why The American Legion has the backs of all veterans. Even you, Grunt4Life.

ZERO CHAT THIRTY
We've scheduled an appointment with America's Top Doc – U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy.

Dr. Murthy talks about prioritizing mental wellness and identifying loneliness and isolation as predictors of depression and suicidal ideation. He stresses the importance of connection and camraderie. “What we really need more of in the world is to show up for one another, to check on one another and to remind each other that we're, in fact, not alone.”

THE SCUTTLEBUTT
Finding help for veterans facing homelessness
Coast Guardsman to Receive Distinguished Flying Cross for Daring Vessel Boarding and Rescue

Special Guest: Dr. Vivek H. Murthy .

Links:

Episode 195: Tango Alpha Lima: RTM Protocol with Montel Williams

The American Legion — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

TROLL PATROL
Extinguishing the perception of smoke-filled American Legion posts

0-CHAT THIRTY
Emmy-award winning TV host, entrepreneur and inspirational speaker Williams is the episode’s special guest. He is active in raising awareness of non-medical treatments to help veterans, first responders and others overcome post-traumatic stress disorder. He is passionate about Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM) therapy, a non-drug, non-traumatizing treatment that reprograms the neurological connection between the brain and traumatic memories.

THE SCUTTLEBUTT
The Myth of Stress Cards
Iraq War veteran with terminal cancer fires tank for last time
Launch of the Tango Mike Awards

Special Guest: Montel Williams.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP05: VETS Co-founders Amber and Marcus Capone

The American Legion — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Marcus and Amber Capone are the founders of Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions – or VETS – an organization that provides resources, research, and advocacy for U.S. Special Operations veterans seeking psychedelic-assisted therapies.

After 13 years and numerous combat deployments as a Navy SEAL, Marcus faced mental health challenges during his transition. When he did not see improvement with traditional treatments, Amber pursued alternative psychedelic therapy – which the couple attributes to saving his life, as well as their family.

Marcus and Amber join the podcast to talk about how their own experiences led them to create a resources for other veterans who are seeking alternative therapies.

Special Guests: Amber Capone and Marcus Capone.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP04: Veterans Mental Health Leadership Coalition Director Adam Marr

The American Legion — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

As a U.S. Army Apache helicopter pilot, Adam Marr deployed to Iraq where he flew more than 400 combat hours and was awarded the combat action badge. In 2017, Marr co-authored the best-selling book, "Tales from the Blast Factory” where he shared the challenges his brother, a Green Beret, faced transitioning out of the Army because of his TBI and PTSD injuries sustained in combat. This book was the inspiration for the Academy Award-qualified documentary film Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain (2020).

In this episode, Marr discusses the challenges his brother faced, his own struggles, and his current work as Director of Operations for the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, a group of more than 45 organizations that advocates for increased research and safe, affordable access to psychedelic medicine and assisted therapies for Veterans and their family members.

Special Guest: Adam Marr.

Links:

Episode 190: Tango Alpha Lima: Veteran Powered Films with Julia Ling and Hiram Murray

The American Legion — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
Return criminal penalties for those who take advantage of disabled veterans or their families

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Actress Julia Ling is a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserves, has appeared on many popular television series such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, House, ER, Grey's Anatomy, The OC – but is best known for her role as "nerd-herder" Anna Wu on Chuck.

After losing multiple military friends to suicide and battling her own depression after a training injury, Julia wanted to do more than raise awareness about the veteran suicide - she wanted to provide a solution. Thus was born Veteran Powered Films, a production company focused on empowering and engaging veterans in all facets of the entertainment industry via on-the-job training and mentorship with fellow military veterans.

Julia joins Marine Corps veteran and actor Hiram A. Murray, who will star in Veteran Powered Films next project - an apocalyptic horror film called "Homestead."

RAPID FIRE
Veterans banners to come down - maybe for good

U.S. veterans use art to help female Afghan soldiers who fled their country process their pain

‘Go beyond thanks:’ New survey reveals we should do more than simply thank our veterans for their service

Special Guests: Hiram A. Murray and Julia Ling.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP03: Neuroscientist and Trauma Response Expert Dr. Ruth Moore

The American Legion — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0400

U.S. Navy veteran, Dr. Ruth Moore is an Integrative Health Practitioner in Functional Medicine in Ellsworth, Maine. She is trauma-response expert who treats stress-based health conditions and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine. She is also a published author, neuroscientist and clinical aromatherapist who has testified before Congress and played a role in creating health policy that helps her fellow veterans get access to appropriate healthcare from VA.

Dr. Moore shares her own journey from experiencing MST, surviving suicide and homelessness to receiving her doctorate and the work she does now to help veterans in crisis.

Special Guest: Dr. Ruth Moore.

Links:

Episode 183: Tango Alpha Lima: “Small Town Strong” Executive Producers Chase Millsap and Dale King

The American Legion — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 06:15:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
How the US Army made the world’s toughest sandwich

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Executive Producer and Director Chase Millsap and Executive Producer Dale King, join us to talk about their documentary, “Small Town Strong.”

Filmed over four years in Portsmouth, Ohio, the one-time pill mill capital of America, “Small Town Strong” follows Dale, a former Army Intelligence Officer, who returns to his hometown after two tours in Iraq, to find it in shambles amid the growing opioid epidemic. With no one coming to save them, King starts PSKC Crossfit gym and offers job opportunities to those in recovery. Their unorthodox strategy takes on fentanyl with fitness – resulting in one of the biggest comebacks in small-town America history.

RAPID FIRE
Women in Army SOF resorted to buying their own armor, study finds

Share your Buddy Check Week plans with us

How rucking can give your walking routine a boost

Special Guests: Chase Millsap and Dale King.

Links:

Tango Alpha Lima Be The One EP02: Lifestyle Medicine and Mental Health with Dr. Regan Stiegmann

The American Legion — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Dr. Regan Stiegmann is Associate Professor of Preventive and Lifestyle Medicine and Director of the Digital Health Track at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Parker, Colorado.

Dr. Stiegmann served 11 years in the U.S. Air Force, most recently as a Flight Surgeon and Lifestyle & Performance Medicine Specialist with the 10th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. She is passionate about human performance optimization, positive psychology, and health promotion, and she discusses how diet, exercise and other factors play a role in mental wellness

Special Guest: Dr. Regan Stiegmann .

Links:

Watch video of this episode on YouTube
Veterans Crisis Line — Dial 988 then Press 1 24/7 Confidential Crisis Support for veterans and their loved ones.
Dr. Major Regan Stiegmann Is Helping Others Become Fit to Serve - Muscle & Fitness
Home - American College of Lifestyle Medicine
Food as Medicine - American College of Lifestyle Medicine
Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine - Food for Life
Walter C. Willett | Academic Profile | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Million Veteran Program (MVP)
Owaves — Find Your Rhythm
The Game Changers Official Film Website | Documentary

Episode 169: Tango Alpha Lima: Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Professional Networks Fellow Lydiah Owiti

The American Legion — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Why Hipsters Are Invading American Legion Posts

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Lydiah Owiti is a foreign-trained and certified attorney with master’s degrees in international development management and project management, and a foreign-born military spouse.

Lydiah shares the unique challenges she has faced and how she now advocates for other foreign-born military spouses and helps raise awareness of issues facing military families of color.

RAPID FIRE
America Celebrates 50 Years of Volunteer Force, But Faces Tough Recruiting Environment
The New Yorker makes a joke of the Army's tactical bra. It's not
S.A.V.E training at Post 904 impresses department commander

Special Guest: Lydiah Owiti .

Links:

Episode 168: Tango Alpha Lima: West Point Master of the Sword Col. Nick Gist

The American Legion — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Legion now sponsoring veteran gaming community

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Col. Nicholas Gist, Head of the Department of Physical Education at the United States Military Academy talks about his role as Master of the Sword at West Point and how his team helps develop mentally tough leaders through a robust program of formal physical education, fitness testing, and competitive sport.

RAPID FIRE
Fort Bliss orders its soldiers to take leave. Yes, really.
Marines left without a confirmed commandant for 1st time since 1910
Anchorage American Legion post celebrates 100 years of service

Special Guest: Col. Nicholas Gist.

Links:

Watch video of this episode on YouTube
Legion now sponsoring veteran gaming community | The American Legion
REGIMENT
Military Charity | Stack Up | United States
Paradox Customs | PC's Done Right
Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 79: Tango Alpha Lima: Stack Up CEO and founder Stephen Machuga
Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
Physical Education Department Landing Page | United States Military Academy West Point
Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 143: Tango Alpha Lima: Army H2F with Lt. Col. Sean Donohue and Alex Morrow
Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 135: Tango Alpha Lima: President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition with Rob Wilkins
Be the One | The American Legion
Fort Bliss orders its soldiers to take leave. Yes, really. — Fort Bliss orders its soldiers to take leave. Yes, really.
Marines left without a confirmed commandant for 1st time since 1910 — Marines left without a confirmed commandant for 1st time since 1910
Anchorage American Legion post celebrates 100 years of service — Anchorage American Legion post celebrates 100 years of service
Join The American Legion

Episode 163: Tango Alpha Lima: "Nevermind, We'll Do it Ourselves" authors Alec Bierbauer and Mark Cooter

The American Legion — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
VASEC McDonough says VA hiring push has helped mitigate spike in VA disability claims

GUESTS
Co-authors Alec Bierbauer and Ret. Col. Mark Cooter tell the origin story of the Predator drone program and the dawn of unmanned warfare in their book, "Never Mind, We'll Do lt Ourselves. The inside Story of How a Team of Renegades Broke Rules, Shattered Barriers, and Launched a Drone Warfare Revolution."

The pair talk about how their own military experiences led them to share this story, how unmanned warfare changed how wars are fought, and where the technology is heading.

RAPID FIRE
Staten Island students help homeless veterans with “Backpacks for Life”

How stand-up comedy can heal the military-connected community.

American Legion launches Be The One Day

Special Guests: Alec Bierbauer and Mark Cooter.

Links:

Episode 162: Tango Alpha Lima: The “Generosity Culture” with entrepreneur April Shprintz

The American Legion — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
A new report released by the Department of the Navy raises concerns about SEALS candidates using performance-enhancing drugs to get through BUD/S.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Air Force veteran April Shprintz uses the principles of The Generosity Culture®, to take failing companies to profitability in less than six months, scale million-dollar international firms to 8 figures in a year and helps new start-ups begin closing $100K deals in less than a month.

April talks about the importance of pouring resources back into the people who are part of a company, and shares insight about how the same concept can apply to recruiting new members to a non-profit organization.

RAPID FIRE
“Be The One” days launched June 1
Get new gear and get registered for 2023 Legacy Run
Army Vet goes viral after he details his VA experience on social media

Special Guest: April Shprintz.

Links:

Episode 160: Tango Alpha Lima: Special Assistant to the President for Veterans Affairs Terri Tanielian

The American Legion — Tue, 23 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Long-troubled Fort Hood has been redesignated Fort Cavazos, in honor of Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos, a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars and the first Hispanic four-star general.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Terri Tanielian, Special Assistant to the President for Veterans Affairs, is a nationally recognized expert in veteran and mental health policy. She discusses how the White House is tackling veterans issues such as suicide and homelessness, as well as how they are supporting military families and caregivers.

RAPID FIRE
 A very good girl deploys on carrier Ford: Sage the service dog
Marines to deactivate historically female recruit training battalion
The Story of Poppy Day

Special Guest: Terri Tanelian.

Links:

Episode 157: Tango Alpha Lima: 22Zero Founder Dan Jarvis

The American Legion — Tue, 02 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Kevin Kline, a member of Sons of The American Legion Squadron 176 in Springfield, Va., executive director of the USS Arizona “Operation 85” project, is seeking help on his mission to identify the "unknown" Navy and Marine servicemembers from the USS Arizona using DNA samples from families.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Suffering from sleeplessness as a side-effect of a traumatic brain injury, struggling with survivors guilt and grieving his mother's death, Dan Jarvis found himself contemplating suicide. His journey to healing led him to found 22Zero, a non-profit that helps heal trauma using a technique known as Tactical Resiliency Training.

Dan shares his personal journey and how his organization assists veterans, first responders and their families.

RAPID FIRE
2023 American Legion Memorial Day speech available online
Fort Gordon families say base housing still plagued with mold, sewage and other problems
Get One Year of LinkedIn Premium and LinkedIn Learning for Free

Special Guest: Dan Jarvis.

Links:

Episode 154: Tango Alpha Lima: VA Vet Center Chief Readjustment Counseling Officer Mike Fisher

The American Legion — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Suicide surges among soldiers not inherently tied to wars, according to a study published in the May issue of Psychiatry Research.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
VA Vet Centers Chief Readjustment Counseling Officer Mike Fisher joins us to talk about the services provided by Vet Centers, scholarship opportunities available through the Vet Center Scholarship program, and future growth and expansion of Vet Centers across the nation.

RAPID FIRE
American Legion Removes Confederate Flag After Vet’s Query
Legionnaires warned to not download unauthorized My Legion app
 Fred Brock Post 828 honors Vietnam veterans, family members during National Vietnam War Veterans Day

Special Guest: Mike Fisher.

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Episode 151: Tango Alpha Lima: National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation CEO Chris Cassidy

The American Legion — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
How to Spot a Stroke F.A.S.T.
American Legion virtual training with Veterans Yoga Project helps members learn about the physical and mental health benefits of yoga

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation CEO Chris Cassidy leads the mission to inspire America and promote the belief that everyone is born with the potential to be extraordinary. He talks about his work to build a national museum, and the educational programs offered while the structure is being built.

The retired Navy SEAL and former NASA Chief Astronaut talks about his military and space career.

RAPID FIRE
Jon Bernthal Returning as the Punisher for ‘Daredevil: Born Again’
Here's How to Get a 2023 MLB.TV Military Discount
National Parks jokingly warns not to 'push a slower friend down' if you encounter a bear

Special Guest: Chris Cassidy.

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Episode 150: Tango Alpha Lima: Elite Athlete "Air Force" Ken Corigliano

The American Legion — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Female 4-stars discuss changes for women in military service.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
After a traumatic brain injury, Air Force" Ken Corigliano developed synesthesia, a condition in which information meant to stimulate one of sense stimulates several senses. This condition has given him a magnified ability to see the interconnectedness of life, and a unique perspective on the world around him, which he uses to promote the connection between physcial fitness and mental wellness.

RAPID FIRE
Marines welcome first woman to serve as senior enlisted leader of an expeditionary force
Tom Cruise is filming 'Mission Impossible' on a Navy aircraft carrier
Legion shows support to Irreverent Warriors

Special Guest: Ken Corigliano.

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Episode 147: Tango Alpha Lima: Retired Air Force Combat Photographer Stacy Pearsall

The American Legion — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
Law enforcement is investigating after an intruder breached Andrews Air Force Base, the home of Air Force One.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Stacy served in the Air Force as a combat photojournalist, where she earned numerous medals and commendations during her deployments. She is one of only three women to win National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) Military Photographer of the Year competition and is the first woman to earn it twice.

Today, Stacy continues to work worldwide as an independent photographer, author, educator and founder of the Veterans Portrait Project.

She talks with us about her history as well as her current project, the PBS series "After Action," which reveals the experiences of veterans before, during and after their service.

RAPID FIRE
One of the First Black Marines, 101, Honored for His Service
Veteran Who Started Neo-Nazi Group Arrested Again, This Time for Targeting a Power Station
Black History Month: a time to honor and share

Special Guest: Stacy Pearsall.

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Episode 146: Tango Alpha Lima: CBRN Expert Jeffrey Brodeur

The American Legion — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
American Legion lines out priorities for the 118th Congress.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Former U.S. Army Ranger Jeffrey Brodeur has experience developing Chemical-Biological-Radiological-Nuclear (CBRN) strategy, plans, and training programs. He is an internationally recognized CBRN expert who has lead survey teams in combat zones to support Department of State programs, and he talks about the technology being used for presumptive identification of potential toxins in combat zones.

RAPID FIRE
Be The One takes center stage at California American Legion Revitalization event.
Military Police commander at Fort Hood suspended amid ongoing investigations
American Legion post in South Korea honors Four Chaplain

Special Guest: Jeffrey Brodeur.

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Episode 138: Tango Alpha Lima: Give An Hour CEO Dr. Trina Clayeux

The American Legion — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
Jeff and Ashley discuss the availability of new VA life insurance policies for disabled veterans that are scheduled to launch in January.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Dr. Trina Clayeux, the CEO of Give an Hour, a non-profit organization that provides free counseling to servicemembers, veterans and their loved ones, talks about the organization, some of the current projects they are working on, and some things everyone can do in support of emotional well-being.

RAPID FIRE
Legiontown: Fred Brock Post 828 assists families of local elementary schools
Give blood this holiday season

Special Guest: Dr. Trina Clayeux .

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Episode 136: Tango Alpha Lima: The physical inactivity epidemic with Dr. Dan Bornstein

The American Legion — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
A lawmaker frustrated by a the unsolved case of a soldier decapitated in 2020 is pushing the Pentagon to overhaul how it handles cold cases.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
The second guest in our fitness and wellness series, Dr. Dan Bornstein talks about the America's Physical Inactivity Epidemic and the impact on military recruiting and readiness.

Dr. Bornstein shares simple changes veterans make and resources avialable help them get moving and encourage others to increase physical activity.

RAPID FIRE
Veterans, Gold Star Families get free lifetime pass to national parks, wildlife refuges, other public lands
We salute this Army tank crew that named their tank ‘Come On Bro’
‘Top Gun’ reimagined with a cat is purrrrfection

Special Guest: Dr. Dan Bornstein.

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Episode 132: Tango Alpha Lima: Retired U.S. Army Old Guard Sergeant of the Guard Chelsea Porterfield

The American Legion — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
In response to a Military times article, "Congress Wants America to Thank Veterans in the Most Awkward Way Possible"
Jeff and Ashley discuss how to properly respond to "Thank you for our Freedom."

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Chelsea Porterfield recently retired from the U.S. Army, where she served as a platoon sergeant in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). During her four years there, she became the first woman to lead a marching element onto Arlington, she became the 38th Sergeant of the Guard, and in 2021 she became the fifth woman to earn her Tomb Guard Identification Badge.

Chelsea talks about her military experience, including her struggle with suicide and how she worked through it and has now become an advocate to help others to seek help.

RAPID FIRE
Marine Corps Reserve celebrates 75 years of Toys for Tots
NATO Begins Nuclear Exercises Amid Russian War Tensions
Letters from Legiontown: Finding a purpose again

Special Guest: Chelsea Porterfield .

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Episode 131: Tango Alpha Lima: Former MLB pitcher and American Legion Baseball Alumni Steve Woodard

The American Legion — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Jeff and Ashley get into the 'spirit' of Halloween with a run-down of some American Legion post hauntings.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Former MLB Pitcher Steve Woodard, an American Legion Baseball Alumni who played for Post 52 in Hartselle, Ala., talks about his own baseball career, how American Legion Baseball influenced his path to the majors, and his experience as a color commentator during the broadcasts of The American Legion World Series on ESPN3 and ESPNU.

RAPID FIRE
Coast Guard seizes $29M of narcotics in Gulf of Oman
Burn pit registry is failing to help track vet illnesses, experts say
Share your ‘Be the One’ story

SHOUT-OUT
To Veterans in Media & Entertainment for the upcoming Amazon Prime documentary "Wildcat."

Special Guest: Steve Woodard.

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Episode 125: Tango Alpha Lima: March for the 22 co-founders Liz Hartman and Adin Colón

The American Legion — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Jeff and Ashley kick things off discussing the Task & Purpose article that breaks down why Florida's plan to recruit uncertified veterans to become teachers is a stupid idea.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Our guests this week are New Bern, N.C. Post 539 commander and Marine Corps veteran Liz Hartman, and fellow Post 539 member, retired U.S. Army Sergeant and Bronze Star recipient Adin Colón.

Liz and Adin are co-founders of March for the 22, an event that helps raise awareness and help end veteran suicide. The pair talk about how they started the event, as well as how their small post does big things within their community.

RAPID FIRE
Legion member inspired by 100 Miles for Hope walks more than 2,200 miles
Navy promises ‘life-altering $115,000’ in bonuses to lure veterans back to active duty

Special Guests: Adin Colón and Liz Hartman.

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Episode 122: Tango Alpha Lima: Sierra Club Military Outdoors campaign manager Aaron Leonard

The American Legion — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Our hosts remember 1-year anniversary of the attack near Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul by honoring the 13 servicemembers killed in the bombing.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Our guest is U.S. Army retired Lt. Col. Aaron Leonard, a combat veteran who now serves as Campaign Manager at Sierra Club Military Outdoors and as co-chair of the Outdoor Rx Coalition with the New York State Division of Veterans Services.

RAPID FIRE
Marine Corps promotes first Black officer to 4-star general in 246-year history
Anniversary of Afghanistan withdrawal could serve as a trigger for those suffering moral injury
Hiring Our Heroes and Wisconsin Career Event at American Legion National ConventionIN THE NEWS

Special Guest: Aaron Leonard.

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Episode 119: Tango Alpha Lima: S-A-R Flag with Kevin Hertell

The American Legion — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Registration is open for the Hiring our Heroes career event taking place on Aug. 25 in conjunction with The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Our guest is Kevin W. Hertell, an Air Force veteran who served with the 309th Fighter Squadron and a member of Glenwood Landing Post 336 in Glen Head, N.Y.

Kevin is the Founder and President of “The Veterans Suicide Awareness & Remembrance Flag Corporation,” as well as the creator of the S-A-R Flag. Jeff and Ashley learn about what inspired Kevin to create the S-A-R flag and launch his mission to remove the stigma of mental health and veteran suicide.

RAPID FIRE
Join the 9/11 National Day of Service
SCOTUS Gives Veterans Big Win, Says States Can Be Sued for Discriminating Against Vets

Special Guest: Kevin Hertell.

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Episode 100: Tango Alpha Lima: Mighty Oaks founder and author Chad Robichaux

The American Legion — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0400

IN THE NEWS
Jeff Daly makes a triumphant return to the show and shares his heartfelt thanks for the care and support he recieved from his Legion family.

Ashley shares a story of 4 airmen awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for evacuating more than 150 civilians from Kabul.

THE INTERVIEW
Our guest this week is Chad Robichaux, a former Force Recon Marine and DoD contractor with eight deployments to Afghanistan as part of a Joint Special Operations Command task force.

Chad very nearly became a veteran suicide statistic, but he overcame personal battles with PTSD and went on to start the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit that serves active duty and veteran communities with faith-based combat trauma and resiliency programs.

RAPID FIRE
Chad Robichaux Update
Marine Corps body composition standards may be leading to eating disorders
Powdered hot sauce coming soon to MREs

Special Guest: Chad Robichaux.

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Episode 92: Tango Alpha Lima: Merging Vets and Players with Former Green Beret Nate Boyer

The American Legion — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

IN THE NEWS
Jeff and Ashley discuss the unacceptable living conditions for the junior enlisted barracks at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

THIS WEEK'S GUEST
Jeff and Ashley sit down with former Green Beret and Seattle Seahawk Nate Boyer to talk about Merging Vets and Players, a nonprofit organization that brings together combat veterans and professional athletes for workouts and therapy

RAPID FIRE
DARPA tests Autonomous Black Hawk Helicopter
Honoring the military service of Harry Belafonte
Air Force ordered to pay restitution for Sutherland Spring shooting

Special Guest: Nate Boyer.

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Episode 68: Tango Alpha Lima: Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! Foundation

The American Legion — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In honor of National Suicide Awareness Prevention Month, Team Tango hosts Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! Foundation founder Craig Rauchle and board member Steve Lenzi.

The pair discusses the origins of their organization, and it's mission to address and reduce suicide among military servicemembers and veterans who suffer from the effects of trauma, stress and depression from combat and reintegration into civilian life.

They share the ways organization conducts research, supports new and existing treatments and strives to bring those resources to the military servicemembers, and to help to save lives.

Special Guest: Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! Foundation.

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