Former Marine/Army officer Bren Briggs shares how a devastating combat injury led him to found The Eden Project, a nonprofit supporting veterans and their families.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on The Marcus Foundation's impactful work with Senior Program Director and combat veteran Marcus Ruzek. A former Green Beret, Ruzek shares his unique journey from Army Special Forces to leading the philanthropic vision of Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus. Discover the foundation's "entrepreneurial philanthropy" approach, which focuses on tackling the veteran suicide epidemic by going "narrow and deep" on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), and substance abuse through the Avalon Action Alliance. Learn the powerful story of how the foundation invests in human capital, why traditional mental health isn't working, and the critical role of organizations like the Warrior Alliance in connecting veterans to life-saving resources. A must-listen for veterans, philanthropists, and anyone passionate about veteran support.

In this episode of the Warrior Alliance Spotlight, hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart interview Jennifer Yearwood and JT Liddle of Open Doors Atlanta, the 2024 Warrior Alliance Community Partner of the Year. We dive deep into how this non-profit tackles veteran homelessness and helps families find stable housing in the Atlanta area. Jennifer shares her personal journey and passion for social work, explaining how her team provides direct support and financial assistance to veterans facing housing insecurity. JT, a combat veteran and Head of Technology, discusses the innovative tech platform he built to connect veterans with housing resources seamlessly. Learn about their collaborative efforts with the Warrior Alliance to create a powerful support system, and hear personal stories of resilience and the mission to end veteran homelessness.

Join the Warrior Alliance Spotlight live from Truist Park as Veteran Impact Award winners Michael Carpenter, Xavier Cunion, and Jennifer Yearwood share how they empower veterans through public service, employment, and housing support. Discover practical advice for veterans transitioning to civilian life, overcoming homelessness, and finding meaningful work. Celebrate community partnerships with the Atlanta Braves and get inspired by powerful veteran success stories and resources.

Join Warrior Alliance Spotlight live at Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park with veteran leaders from Camp Southern Ground, Money Management International, and the Atlanta VA. Discover powerful stories of veteran transition, financial wellness, and community support. Hear directly from those making a real impact for veterans across the southeast.

Join us as 9/11 survivor Kayla Bergeron recounts her escape from the North Tower, her battle with PTSD and cancer, and her journey to mental health advocacy. Discover how equine therapy changed her life, and get inspired by her story of hope, resilience, and serving fellow trauma survivors and veterans. #911Survivor #MentalHealth #EquineTherapy

In this Warrior Alliance Spotlight, Kate Lipton shares how Camp Twin Lakes transforms veterans’ lives through therapeutic recreation, peer support, and family bonding. Discover how Warrior Family Weekends help veterans, spouses, and children heal together, adapt to challenges like PTSD, and find joy again. Whether your family is struggling or seeking connection, learn how activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, arts & crafts, and fishing create safe spaces for healing.

Discover the latest advances in traumatic brain injury (TBI) care for veterans and athletes in this powerful episode of Warrior Alliance Spotlight. Hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart sit down with Dr. Rusty Gore—neurologist, Air Force veteran, and leader at the Shepherd Center and Avalon Action Alliance—to explore cutting-edge approaches to concussion diagnosis, TBI recovery, and holistic support for veterans and service members. Learn about the intricate connection between PTSD and TBI, real-world patient stories, and comprehensive, no-cost treatment programs that transform lives nationwide.

Discover proven strategies for veteran financial wellness with Tara Alderete, Director at Money Management International. Learn how to conquer debt, build a budget, and avoid predatory lending. Hear inspiring success stories and practical tips tailored for military families transitioning to civilian life. Brought to you by The Warrior Alliance, this episode is a must-listen for service members, veterans, and anyone seeking financial freedom.

Join hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart as they sit down with 101-year-old WWII veteran and Holocaust liberator, PFC Hilbert “Hibby” Margol. Discover the powerful firsthand account of Margol’s role in liberating Dachau concentration camp, the horrors he witnessed, and the legacy he’s built through decades of sharing his story. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in World War II history, Holocaust education, and the enduring lessons of the Greatest Generation.

Discover how Chattahoochee Technical College's Vector Center supports veterans! Michael Payne, a U.S. Army veteran and Director of Veteran Services, shares his journey and the Vector Center's comprehensive resources for education, career transition, disability claims, and mental health. Learn about CTC's programs, partnerships with organizations like the Warrior Alliance, and how they help veterans of all ages find new careers and navigate civilian life. Tune in for insights on veteran support, overcoming transition challenges, and finding community.

Join hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart as they spotlight Patrick Brown, Military Outreach Manager at the Warrior Alliance. Discover Patrick's inspiring journey from Army Ranger to veteran advocate, his role in supporting service members, and his transition to the film industry. Learn about the challenges veterans face and the importance of finding purpose after service. Tune in for valuable insights and heartwarming stories.

Join us on "Warrior Spotlight" as we talk with Dr. Stacey Dixon, a 20-year Marine Corps veteran and director of Military and Veteran Services at Kennesaw State University. Dr. Dixon shares her inspiring journey from military service to civilian life, offering valuable insights on mentorship, career transitions, and the importance of higher education. Discover the resources available to veterans at Kennesaw State and learn how to navigate your own path to success.

Join hosts Scott Munn and Navy veteran Tug Cowart as they interview Melanie Dallas, CEO of Highland Rivers Behavioral Health. Discover her journey, the evolution of behavioral health, and the critical support services for veterans. Learn about the mental health crisis, the importance of connection, and innovative programs like "The Outpost" for veteran support. #VeteranMentalHealth #BehavioralHealth #HighlandRivers #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteranSupport

Join hosts Scott Munn and Navy veteran Tug Cowart at Royal Lawn Studios in Atlanta, GA, as they dive into the transformative mission of Georgia Military College (GMC) in Milledgeville, GA. Special guest Kate Pope, Assistant Vice President of External Relations at GMC, shares insights on how GMC supports military service members, their families, and the broader community. Discover the unique aspects of GMC, its historical significance, and the impactful partnerships that drive its mission forward.

Join hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart as they spotlight Scott Cunningham, VP of Broadcasting and Fan Experience for the Atlanta Braves. Discover how Cunningham's military upbringing shaped his career, the evolution of fan experience in sports, and the impactful initiatives supporting veterans through the Warrior Alliance. Tune in for inspiring stories and valuable insights on transitioning from military to civilian life.   Key Takeaways: · Scott Cunningham's military upbringing and career journey. · Evolution of fan experience in sports. · Braves' initiatives supporting veterans and military. · Challenges and support for transitioning from military to civilian life.

Join hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart as they spotlight retired U.S. Army Colonel John Thompson, a 30-year veteran and Director of Risk Management at Cox Enterprises. Discover Colonel Thompson's career highlights, including commanding the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, his transition to civilian life, and his commitment to helping veterans through the Warrior Alliance. Don't miss this insightful conversation about service, leadership, and the importance of supporting our veteran community. Key Takeaways: Insights into Colonel John Thompson's 30-year military career The role of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment Transitioning from military to civilian life The importance of veteran support organizations like the Warrior Alliance How Cox Enterprises supports veteran success The value of recording and preserving veterans' stories #WarriorAlliance #VeteranSupport #MilitaryLeadership #JohnThompson #USArmy #VeteranTransition #CoxEnterprises #SpecialOperations #MilitaryCareer #VeteranSuccess

Welcome to the Warrior Alliance Spotlight! Join hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cowart as they discuss PTSD and mental health treatments with Dr. Sheila Rauch, Deputy Director of the Emory Healthcare Veterans Program. Dr. Rauch shares insights on effective therapies, the importance of outreach, and how every American can support veterans. Discover the latest in PTSD research and treatment, including controversial options like MDMA-assisted therapy. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on mental health and veteran care Key Takeaways Insights into PTSD treatments and mental health support for veterans. The role of the Emory Healthcare Veterans Program in veteran care. Success stories and the impact of personalized treatment plans. The importance of outreach and connecting veterans to mental health services. Discussion on controversial treatments like MDMA-assisted therapy. #PTSDTreatment #VeteranMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #EmoryHealthcare #MDMAAssistedTherapy #SuicidePrevention #VeteranSupport #InvisibleWounds #MentalHealthResearch

Welcome to the Warrior Spotlight, the flagship podcast helping Warriors navigate success after service. Hosted by Scott Munn, Director of the Warrior Alliance Network, and Navy veteran Tug Cowart, this live podcast from the Battery Atlanta features a lineup of inspiring guests: former Top Gun Navy aviator William Ville, Army Iraq War veteran Luis Algon, Military Spouse of the Year Kimberly, Atlanta Braves legend Sid Bream, and Georgia Music Hall of Famer Kevin Kinney of Drivin' N Cryin'. In this episode, we delve into leadership, resilience, and the power of community support for veterans. Highlights from the Episode: William Ville: Shares his journey from flying FA-18s in the Navy and working as a Top Gun instructor to his current role at McKinsey & Company. He discusses how servant leadership and problem-solving skills from his military experience are invaluable in the corporate world. Luis Algon: Army Iraq War veteran opens up about his service, the challenges of returning home, and finding support through the Warrior Alliance. His story highlights the importance of addressing invisible wounds and mental health for veterans. Sid Bream: Former Atlanta Braves player talks about the significance of teamwork, both on the field and in supporting veterans through organizations like the Warrior Alliance. He shares his personal connection to military families and the importance of community. Kevin Kinney: Performs a special acoustic version of "Fly Me Courageous" and shares his long-standing support for veterans, dedicating his music to those who serve and their families. He also discusses his song "You Are Not Forgotten," written to honor Vietnam veterans. Kimberly: Recognized as Military Spouse of the Year, she discusses her role in supporting military families and the critical need for community resources. She shares the challenges faced during her husband Dan's deployment and his transition to civilian life after sustaining a traumatic brain injury.

Description: In this episode of "Warrior Spotlight," hosts Scott Munn and Tug Cow are joined by Greg Frey, VP of Operations at Avalon Action Alliance and a decorated 26-year Army officer. They discuss improving healthcare for veterans and first responders by eliminating barriers such as financial and geographical obstacles. Greg shares his personal journey, including his military career and transition to civilian life. Learn about the impactful work Avalon Action Alliance is doing to support those who have served. Key Takeaways: Holistic Care: Avalon Action Alliance addresses traumatic brain injuries (TBI), post-traumatic stress (PTS), and substance abuse to improve overall quality of life for veterans and first responders. Community Engagement: The organization emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and continuous growth in overcoming trauma. Comprehensive Support: Avalon Action Alliance's partnership with the Warrior Alliance provides a collaborative approach to comprehensive care. Personal Journey: Greg Frey shares his inspiring story and offers advice for military spouses on maintaining a positive spirit and intent during challenging times.

Join Scott Mun and Tug Cowart as they welcome Captain Max Hilsman to the Warrior Line Spotlight. Hilsman discusses the importance of coordinated veteran care and the goal to expand the Warrior Alliance's impact across various regions like Augusta, Savannah, and Columbus, GA. He envisions the Warrior Alliance as a nationwide framework for veteran support, much like a franchise model, benefiting veterans in major cities. With partnerships like Habitat for Humanity and the success of Operation Double Eagle, Hilsman highlights the ongoing efforts to support veterans and create lasting community connections. Reflecting on the historic Army-Navy games, Hilsman emphasizes the value of shared experiences and expresses optimism for the future of veteran support.

Join Scott Munn and Tug Cowart on The Warrior Alliance Network podcast as they welcome Mr. Kai Mentzer, the new Executive Director of the Atlanta VA. An Army veteran with a distinguished career in the Veterans Administration, Mentzer discusses his vision for improving veteran care, the challenges of hiring and accountability, and initiatives to support women veterans. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the future of veteran healthcare in Atlanta. 🎧🇺🇸 Key Takeaways Mentzer’s inspiring journey from the Army to the Veterans Administration. The importance of improving access to care and providing a respectful customer experience. Challenges and strategies for timely hiring and accountability at the VA. Initiatives to address the unique needs of women veterans, including quarterly baby showers and a new mammogram trailer. Building trust with veterans through collaboration and community partnerships. 📌 Keywords: Kai Mentzer, Atlanta VA, Veteran Care, Veterans Administration, Women Veterans, VA Healthcare, Military Transition, Veteran Support, VA Hiring, Customer Experience https://thewarrioralliance.org/network/

Fire Chief Brian Marcos has dedicated nearly 20 years to the city of Smyrna, GA, rising from firefighter and EMT to Fire Chief. With accolades like Chief Fire Officer of the Year and recognition as one of Georgia's most influential Hispanics, Chief Marcos now joins the Warrior Alliance Board of Directors. His commitment to supporting veterans and first responders and his community-focused leadership style highlight his exceptional career. Brian Marcos’ journey from firefighter and EMT to Fire Chief. His recognition and accolades in leadership and public service. Importance of community engagement and building trust. The value of character, humility, and coachability in fire service. Overlapping challenges faced by military personnel and first responders. The role of the Warrior Alliance in providing essential resources. #WarriorAlliance #FireChief #CommunityEngagement #VeteranSupport

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Warrior Alliance Spotlight podcast, where hosts Scott Munn and Navy veteran Tug Cowell interview First Sergeant Sean Walker. Learn about Sean's journey from the US Army to leading roles in organizations like Team Rubicon. Discover how his military experiences shaped his leadership skills, the importance of accessible housing for veterans, and strategies for a successful transition to civilian life. This episode is packed with insights on service, community engagement, and the value of perseverance. Veterans, Sean Walker, Warrior Alliance Spotlight, Team Rubicon, military transition, leadership, community service, veteran support, accessible housing, civilian life, US Army The importance of accessible housing for injured veterans Sean Walker’s journey from military service to leadership roles in civilian organizations The role of Team Rubicon in disaster response and humanitarian efforts Strategies for a successful transition to civilian life The value of education, networking, and self-care for veterans Join hosts Scott Munn and Navy veteran Tug Cowell in this episode of the Warrior Alliance Spotlight podcast as they interview First Sergeant Sean Walker. Discover Sean's inspiring journey from the US Army to leadership roles in organizations like Team Rubicon. Learn about the importance of accessible housing for veterans, strategies for successful military-to-civilian transitions, and the critical role of community service. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

In this insightful interview, Reverend Tony Johns, the executive director of Crossroads Community Ministries in Atlanta, GA, shares his journey from being the son of a preacher to leading a frontline organization dedicated to assisting individuals experiencing homelessness. Reverend Johns discusses the unique challenges faced by homeless veterans and how Crossroads, in partnership with the Warrior Alliance, provides crucial support and resources. Learn about the transformative impact of their work and the importance of community collaboration in addressing homelessness. Key Takeaways: Personal Journey: Reverend Tony Johns shares his background and personal experiences with homelessness, which drive his commitment to helping others. Crossroads Community Ministries: An overview of the services provided by Crossroads, including housing assistance, mental health services, and healthcare referrals. Veteran Support: Specific programs and challenges related to assisting homeless veterans, highlighting the importance of tailored support. Community Collaboration: The transformative partnership with the Warrior Alliance and its impact on Crossroads’ ability to serve veterans effectively. Documentation Services: The critical role of providing documentation services, such as birth certificates and state IDs, to help individuals access further support. Keywords: Reverend Tony Johns Crossroads Community Ministries Homelessness Veterans Warrior Alliance Atlanta Nonprofit Community support Homeless services Veteran assistance

This podcast episode features Dr. Victoria Seals, the President of Atlanta Technical College, discussing her passion for education and the college’s commitment to empowering veterans through technical education. Dr. Seals shares her background, the importance of skills-based training, and the success stories of veterans who have transitioned to civilian careers with the help of Atlanta Technical College. Keywords: Atlanta Technical College Dr. Victoria Seals Veterans Education Technical Education Skills-Based Training Warrior Alliance Community Partnership Veteran Success Stories Educational Leadership Workforce Innovation Key Takeaways: Dr. Victoria Seals’ Dedication: With a career deeply rooted in education, Dr. Seals is committed to making education accessible and effective for all, especially veterans. Atlanta Technical College’s Veteran Support: The college offers short-term, tuition-free programs and a dedicated Veteran Services Center to assist veterans in their educational journey. Skills-Based Training: Atlanta Technical College focuses on training students with the skills directly sought by employers, leading to a 99% job placement rate. Veteran Success Stories: The college has numerous success stories of veterans who have used their military experience as a foundation for successful civilian careers. Comprehensive Support System: Through partnerships with organizations like the Warrior Alliance, Atlanta Technical College ensures veterans receive support beyond education, addressing their holistic needs.

In this enlightening episode of the Warrior Alliance spotlight podcast, Amelia Nickerson, CEO of First Step Staffing, shares her journey and the organization’s mission to empower veterans through employment. Discover how First Step’s unique approach is changing lives and strengthening communities. Key Takeaways: First Step Staffing’s core mission is rapid employment for veterans, aiming to get them working within 72 hours. The organization provides a holistic support system, including job training, housing assistance, and mental health resources. First Step has grown by acquiring for-profit staffing companies and converting them into mission-driven non-profits. Partnerships with organizations like the Warrior Alliance are crucial for providing comprehensive veteran support. First Step’s involvement in events like the Masters Tournament showcases their commitment to community engagement. Amelia Nickerson, First Step Staffing, veterans, employment, non-profit, rapid employment, community partnership, Warrior Alliance, Masters Tournament.

This episode of the Warrior Alliance spotlight podcast features a candid conversation with Hunter Hill, a West Point graduate, airborne Ranger, combat veteran, and former Georgia State Senator. Hill shares insights into his military service, leadership lessons, and his commitment to veteran support through his work with the Warrior Alliance and the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority. Key Takeaways: Hunter Hill’s military background and his service as an airborne Ranger in Afghanistan and Iraq earned him two Bronze Stars. His transition from military to civilian life was marked by leadership roles and a dedication to public service. The Warrior Alliance’s mission is to assist veterans in navigating the challenges of reintegration into society. Hill’s current role at GEFA involves managing infrastructure projects that contribute to lower utility rates for Georgia residents. Despite no current plans to return to politics, Hill remains passionate about veteran support and advocacy. Hunter Hill, Warrior Alliance, military service, leadership, veteran support, GEFA, public service, civic engagement, podcast.

This episode of The Warrior Alliance Spotlight features Commissioner Patricia Ross, who shares her inspiring journey from a 25-year career in the Air Force to her current role as the Commissioner of Veteran Service for Georgia. She discusses the importance of education, stability for military children, and the comprehensive support for veterans. Key Takeaways: Military Camaraderie: The sense of community and service in the military was a driving force in Ross’s extended career. Education Advocacy: Post-retirement, Ross led initiatives to enhance educational opportunities for military students. Veteran Support: As Commissioner, Ross oversees the GDS, advocating for veterans and their families in navigating VA benefits. Suicide Prevention: The GDS is actively involved in suicide prevention, providing screenings and connecting at-risk individuals to care. Community Outreach: Outreach events are crucial for informing veterans about their benefits and ensuring they receive professional assistance. Veteran Services, Military Education, Veteran Advocacy, Suicide Prevention, Community Outreach, Leadership, Military Transition, Veteran Benefits.

In this episode of the Warrior Alliance spotlight podcast, Lacy Gunnoe, the Veterans Programs Director of Well-being at Camp Southern Ground, shares his inspiring story of service and transition. With over 22 years as an Air Force officer, Lacy discusses the challenges veterans face post-service and the transformative programs at Camp Southern Ground designed to foster post-traumatic growth and a successful transition to civilian life. Key Takeaways: Veteran Transition: Lacy Gunnoe’s personal journey highlights the importance of finding purpose and community after military service. Warrior Path Program: Camp Southern Ground offers a 90-day Warrior Path program to help veterans transform struggle into strength through peer-delivered training. Individual Experiences: The podcast emphasizes the uniqueness of each veteran’s experience and the need for a supportive environment to address invisible struggles. Holistic Approach: Camp Southern Ground’s holistic approach includes strength-finding tools, songwriting, and organic farming to support veterans’ well-being. Purpose and Identity: Lacy speaks about the importance of veterans discovering their strengths and developing a life plan that aligns with their purpose post-service.

This episode of the Warrior Alliance spotlight podcast features Tony Kimbrough, CEO of the Veteran Empowerment Organization (VEO), discussing the challenges faced by veterans post-service and the comprehensive support provided by VEO. Hosts Scott Munn and Doug Cows delve into the invisible wounds of veterans, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of VEO’s programs. Key Takeaways: Community Support: The VEO offers a healing campus environment for veterans to rebuild their lives, emphasizing the importance of a supportive community. Strategic Planning: Drawing from his military intelligence background, Tony Kimbrough applies strategic planning to aid veterans effectively. Transition Challenges: Kimbrough shares his personal battle with PTSD and the critical role of a support network in transitioning to civilian life. Empowerment Through Housing and Jobs: VEO’s mission includes providing housing support, job placement, and mental health programs to empower veterans towards self-sufficiency. Success Rate: VEO aims to create 250 affordable housing units and maintains a 94% success rate in preventing veterans from returning to homelessness. Veteran Empowerment Organization, Warrior Alliance, Tony Kimbrough, veterans, PTSD, community support, housing, job placement, mental health, self-sufficiency, podcast.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable life of Norman Zoller, an Army veteran and strategic advisor for the Warrior Alliance, who shares his inspiring journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the courtrooms of America, and his unwavering commitment to supporting fellow veterans. Key Takeaways: Norman Zoller’s military service included two tours in Vietnam with Special Forces and the 82nd Airborne Division, later serving as an army lawyer. Post-military career: Zoller served as Chief Executive of the 11th Circuit Court for 28 years, aiding over 30,000 veterans. Legal challenges for veterans: Family law matters, especially divorces, and housing issues are prevalent concerns among veterans seeking legal assistance. Advice for veterans: Perseverance in seeking legal help and staying engaged with veteran groups are crucial for successful transitions. Personal passions: Zoller’s love for music and his 61-year marriage highlight the importance of personal fulfillment and community engagement. Norman Zoller Army Veteran Vietnam War Warrior Alliance Veteran Legal Services ROTC JAG Officer Military Service Veteran Advocacy Community Service