Director's Cut

May is Mental Health Awareness month. If you are a proud veteran or service member who finds it difficult to reach out to others during life transitions, know that the VFW and veteran community is here for you. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture reaches out, checks in, and starts the conversation about mental health and wellness. He speaks with the National Director for VA/DOD Mental Health Collaboration, a military evangelist and member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and Ms. Veteran America 2019 2nd runner-up. They discuss the challenges veterans face, share useful resources and perspectives, and remind us of the many ways to connect so we don't have to go it alone. Doctor Chris Loftis talks about the new “1 Step Today” initiative that is part of the Make a Connection campaign. The honorable Rob Wilkins from the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, discusses wellness from the top of our head to the soles of our feet and how veterans can stay motivated and inspired. And, Ms. 2019 2RU Zoe Magnertta, from VFW Post #2245 shares her story of overcoming the challenges of transitioning into civilian life in our #StillServing Spotlight.   National Director for VA/DoD Mental Health Collaboration, Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Chris Loftis —   Chris describes how the 1 Step Today program helps veterans connect during Mental Health Month. [2:58] The Make the Connection website assists veterans in overcoming the stigma about mental wellness by helping them express what they are experiencing. [4:38] Mental wellness is important for all veterans, even those in non-combat positions. [9:41] What veterans should do if they want to reconnect with a supportive community. [12:12]   Member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, & Nutrition and Military Evangelist, Honorable Robert Wilkins —   Robert describes his role as a member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. [21:30] Slowly removing the COVID-19 and how to regain a high quality of life. [26:49] Participants of the Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally need to be fit because the ride takes its toll on a body. [30:44] Robert describes how his family stays mentally and physically fit. [32:25] No matter how proud you are, reaching out to others will be one of the best things to increase mental wellbeing. [37:09]   #StillServing — Ms. Veteran America 2019 2RU from VFW Post #2245, Zoe Magnetta —   Being on the cover of VFW magazine was an honor for Zoe. [44:36] Zoe spent 12 years in the Navy and helped others thrive during her service as a Drill Instructor. [48:05] As an Aviation Electronics Technician, Zoe served on an aircraft carrier during the Gulf War. [51:40] Zoe recalls the difficulty she experienced finding work after honorably discharging from the Navy. [56:15] The Ms. Veteran America competition and Final Salute focus on ending homelessness for women veterans. [1:02:10]     For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Make the Connection— 1 Step Today Health.GOV Ms. Veteran America Final Salute, Inc

12 Maj 20211h 15min

During this episode of the Still Serving Podcast, Host Rob Couture shares news and information you can use to get motivated and get healthy. Dr. Jane Kim is the Chief Consultant for Preventive Medicine for the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention at the Veterans Administration. She comes armed with all the information you need to know about the VA’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program. Executive Director and Founder of Team Red, White, & Blue, Mike Erwin, is joined by VFW Director of Programs, Lynn Rolf, to discuss the newly created partnership between the two organizations and how we veterans can use it to enhance our wellness efforts. Then, SEAC (Retired) John Wayne Troxell shares how his role as a fitness advocate, motivational speaker, consultant, and brand ambassador for multiple health and fitness organizations promotes healthy, nutritious initiatives. To wrap things up, Post Commander for VFW Post 7916, Jeff Lett, describes how his post became the #StillServing Post of the Month.   Chief Consultant for Preventative Medicine VA, Dr. Jane Kim —   What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccination program at the VA. [2:25] Reactions and possible side effects from the vaccines. [6:02] Can fully vaccinated people transmit COVID-19 to friends or family? [9:32]   Founder Team Red, White, & Blue, Mike Erwin, and VFW’s Director of Programs, Lynn Rolf —   Why Mike created Team Red, White, & Blue. [15:54] Lynn reflects on his fitness journey and how the joint effort of the VFW and Team R, W, & B to help veterans stay healthy. [19:25] Physical, mental, and emotional accountability is a key factor in Team Red, White, and Blue’s program. [26:43] The benefits of the partnership between Team R, W, & B offers VFW members. [29:20] Marching orders is a simple way veterans can get moving toward better health. [31:23]   SEAC (Retired) John Wayne Troxell —   John designed the PME Hard program to be a foundation for resiliency for troops in harsh conditions. [36:42] The challenging, non-traditional motivation techniques John integrated into his PT routines. [43:48] Why nutrition is the most important way for veterans to be physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy. [48:31] John promotes “better for you” choices by partnering with private companies that provide military services. [53:14] Why physical fitness is vitally important to a healthy retirement. [1:04:27] John has two podcasts The Ron & John Show and Leader Talk. [1:10:46]   #StillServing Post Commander VFW Post 7916, Jeff Lett —   Jeff describes how he is #StillServing and how VFW Post 7916 thrives in the community. [1:17:36] Post 7916 was voted Post of the Month based on the good deeds done by its members. [1:23:13]     For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story VA COVID-19 Vaccine Website Team Red, White, & Blue Website The Ron and John Show Podcast Leader Talk FB Live Podcast

28 Apr 20211h 30min

Spring means tax time and for many veterans and military members, our minds are on our finances. 2020 brought the coronavirus, economic impact payments, job transitions, and for some, unemployment. All of these things can complicate filing your taxes. And, if you are planning to become a new homeowner or move this season, a VA home loan is designed specifically with the needs of veterans in mind. During this episode of the Still Serving Podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with IRS Spokesperson, Karen Connelly about the updates and information veterans need to know for filing 2020 taxes. And, from Veterans Lending Group, National Director, Brooke Villano, National Director of Education, Retired Force Master Chief, David Carter, and VA Home Loan Specialist, U.S. Army Ranger Veteran, Ron O’Ferrall join the show. The team offers helpful home buying tips, do’s and don’ts when considering mortgage financing, and common misconceptions about the VA home loan benefit.   IRS Spokesperson, Karen Connelly —   Changes in the Federal Tax Code for filing 2020 taxes. [4:13] Tax resources and assistance for veterans and military members. [6:35] Beware of scammers calling for your personal information. [10:00] Tips for filing: State taxes, changes in unemployment tax, and identity theft. [11:41] Tax Information for military retirees who received a deferment in 2020. [18:02] The quickest way to receive your income tax refund. [20:16]   Veterans Lending Group, Brooke Villano, David Carter, and Ron O’Ferrall   National Director Brooke Villano describes why the Veterans Lending Group was created, its purpose, and who it serves. [24:17] National Director of Education David Carter explains how his team disseminates information to veterans, service members, and their families. [26:43] VA Home Loan Specialist Ron O’Ferrall and Brooke describe the mission of the Veterans Lending Group. [29:55] Dispelling common myths of VA lending and best practices for making sound financial decisions. [37:21] David shares his personal journey of financing his home mortgage and working with the Veterans Lending Group. [44:57] Working with a VA Home Loan Specialist offers the best home buying experience for military families. [50:04] Ron shares fast facts about the benefits of VA home loans. [57:19] The Ron and John Show is the official podcast of Veterans Lending Group. [1:01:05]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story IRS — Free Tax Filing Where’s My Refund Military One Source — Miltax, Free Tax Services for Military Members Veterans Lending Group VA Home Loan Bootcamp Veterans Affairs The Ron and John Show Podcast

14 Apr 20211h 8min

Women were not legally permitted to be part of the military until the creation of the Army Nurse Corps in 1901. Since that time, women have been granted the right to vote and the right to serve in combat units. Today, women hold positions of rank, are decorated veterans, and continue to break glass ceilings. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with the newly appointed Press Secretary and Official Spokesperson for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) and former host of this podcast, Terrence Hayes about current initiatives and directives of the VA. In honor of Women’s History month, Rob speaks with the President of the Military Women’s Memorial in DC, Phyllis Wilson about HERstory, the facility, and upcoming events and exhibits. And, Melanie Foster describes her duties and goals as the first woman VFW Department Commander of Idaho.   Press Secretary and Official Spokesperson for Department of Veterans Affairs, Terrence Hayes —   Congratulations to Terrance for being newly appointed as Press Secretary for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. [3:23]   Initiatives and directives of the Dept. of Veterans Affairs for 2021. [7:42]   Terrence received his COVID-19 vaccine and why you should too. [10:15]   President of Military Women’s Memorial, Phyllis Wilson   Phyllis stepped into her new role as President of the Military Women’s Memorial just before the onset of the pandemic. [18:10]   The Military Women’s Memorial is an architectural marvel and the gateway to Arlington Cemetery. [20:31]   Phyllis shares her journey as a proud woman in the military before women were widely accepted in combat units. [23:23]   The Color of Freedom exhibit and upcoming events at the Military Women’s Memorial [34:50]   Recapping the amazing accomplishments of women in the military. [42:47]   VFW Commander, Department of Idaho, Melanie Foster —   Melanie describes her position, her community, and her service in Iraq. [47:44]   In the process of being medically discharged, Melanie wanted to deploy for a second tour in Iraq. [50:51]   From her article in VFW magazine, Melanie recalls her harrowing, decades-long, medical journey. [52:51]   As the first woman Department Commander in Idaho, Melanie takes every opportunity to educate the community about female veterans. [56:59]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Women’s Memorial Website Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story

31 Mars 20211h 6min

Many veterans continue to give service to our great nation long after their military service ends. Some volunteer for veterans’ causes, some support organizations such as the VFW financially, and some share their knowledge to enrich veteran’s lives. We acknowledge all the individuals who give back to the veteran community with time, love, and compassion. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes speaks with Cooking with a Veteran host and VFW life member, Dave Rogers. Dave describes his Facebook Live cooking show and what sparked him to make magic happen in the kitchen for veterans. Veterans Benefits Administration Education Service Executive Director Charmaine Bogue discusses widely-used GI Bill benefits and changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Army LTG (ret) Roger Schultz discusses the huge undertaking to design the National Museum of the U.S. Army and why it is imperative you visit when you are in the D.C. area. VFW Life Member, Dave Rogers —   Dave describes the struggles of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. [1:32] Cooking with a Veteran assists veterans with one of the major insecurities they face, food security. [3:43] Dave has always loved cooking but honed his skills during his military career. [6:40] Dave cooks some of his favorite dishes on his weekly show Cooking with a Veteran; available on Facebook Live and YouTube. [9:00] Dave shares an anecdote about his first cooking influences and experiences. [13:49] VBA Education Service Executive Director, Charmaine Bogue   The VA administers five educational benefits programs. [19:14] The impact of COVID-19 on student-veterans education benefits. [20:50] Charmaine describes how veterans can find out more about what GI Bill benefits apply to them and how they can utilize the benefits. [23:17] Disabled veterans and their families are also eligible for educational opportunities. [29:08]   Army LGT (ret), Roger Schultz —   General Schultz describes how the National Museum of the U.S. Army was financed. [35:21] The National Museum of the U.S. Army gives non-service members a chance to understand what it is like to serve in the ranks. [37:32] The exhibit hall and museum feature a tour of America’s history and the Army’s contribution to society. [41:43] The Army Medal of Honor Wall and Garden is a special place. [46:50]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Cooking with a Veteran on Facebook GI Bill Information Army History

3 Mars 202153min

The VFW organization helps veterans to thrive by keeping veterans informed, engaged, and educated about all the benefits and programs available to them and their families. This podcast highlights how additional financial and charitable donations are collected and utilized, unique programs for minority veterans, and how veterans can continue to be of service through medical research. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes chats with Executive Director of the Center for Minority Veterans, Stephen Dillard who discusses the wonderful work his team does to ensure our minority veterans have the health care, benefits, and entitlements they have earned. Director of the VFW Foundation, Richard Potter, discusses the 25th anniversary of the foundation and what lies ahead as they continue to seek ways to best serve our amazing veterans, service members, and families. Drs. Chris O’Donnell, Chief of Cardiology and Director of the Center for Population Genomics, VA Boston Health Care System, and Phil Tsao, Assistant Chief of Staff for Precision Medicine and Director of the Palo Alto Epidemiology Research and Information Center for Genomics, discuss the All of Us Research Program and how this program helps ensure veterans are represented in this historic effort to speed up biomedical breakthroughs.   Executive Director for the Center for Minority Veterans, Stephen Dillard —   Stephen offers an overview of the Center for Minority Veterans and details the people served by the organization. [2:01] How the VFW and Center for Minority Veterans collaborate. [5:22] Information about the benefits available to minority veterans and their families. [6:50] The Minority Veterans Advisory Committee consults and advises the Center for Minority Veterans. [10:48] The Minority Benefits Summit is postponed due to COVID-19. [14:35]   Director of the VFW Foundation, Richard Potter —   Richard explains the creation and the purpose of the VFW Foundation. [17:26] How the VFW Foundation and corporate sponsors support veterans and service members. [20:04] The VFW Foundation has provided financial relief to VFW community posts during the COVID pandemic. [27:55] The VFW Foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary. [30:51]   Dr. Chris O’Donnell and Phil Tsao, Ph.D. —   Dr. O’Donnell shares the goals and accomplishments of the Precision Medicine Initiative. [36:36] How veterans can join the All of Us program and how the program benefits veterans. [38:14] Over 250,000 veterans participate in the ongoing All of Us program. [41:18] The genetic feedback veterans receive from participating in the program. [43:02]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Center for Minority Veterans VFW Foundation All of Us Program — 1-833-805-0426

17 Feb 202150min

In honor of Black History month, the VFW is highlighting veterans who made a difference during their service and continue to make a difference in their communities. The VFW donates to organizations that assist service members who have battled spoken and unspoken, systemic biases based on race, equity, and justice as well as other deserving causes. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes chats with Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (ret.) Kaleth Wright about the many contributions African-Americans have made in our military and shares his experience while serving as we recognize African-American History Month. Internal Revenue Service Media Relations Officer, Karen Connelly shares how veterans and service members can prepare for the 2021 tax season. And Park University Associate Professor of History Dr. Timothy Westcott shares the amazing work The George S. Robb Centre for the Study of the Great War is doing in regards to the Valor Medals Review Project for minority service members.   Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (ret.) Kaleth Wright — Kaleth joined the world's greatest Air Force on a whim, but now service means everything to him. [2:18] Kaleth shares the African-Americans who made a significant impact on his life. [8:56] Why leaders need to have conversations about systemic race, justice, equity, and bias issues to become better leaders. [10:35] The advancement of females and minorities in positions of authority is well overdue. [15:35]   Internal Revenue Service Media Relations Officer, Karen Connelly — The steps veterans can take to prepare to file taxes. [22:12] Tax filing advice for deployed service members. [24:16] Navigating 2020 taxes, including the Recovery Rebate form, the CARES Act, and SS tax deferment. [25:38] What veterans can do to avoid being the victim of a tax fraud or scam. [27:08] “A Closer Look” into the IRS. [33:10]   Park University Associate Professor of History, Dr. Timothy Westcott — Dr. Westcott describes the process in which Park University reviews those denied Valor medals due to racial bias. [35:40] The individuals involved with the Valor Medals Review Program and the role they play in the process. [40:31] Dr. Westcott shares the heartbreaking and heartwarming aspects of the Valor Medals Review Program. [44:31] How the 2019 VFW donation of $70,000 was used to recognize future Valor Medal recipients. [49:31]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program IRS Publication #3 for Armed Service Members IRS Free File The Valor Medals Review Program

3 Feb 202155min

Serving in the military instills strong values and honorable virtues that last a lifetime. But, when active duty is complete, keeping up-to-date with quality-of-life benefits and programs for service members transitioning into civilian life is essential. The VFW organization is always striving to gather the information that matters most to its members. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes discovers programs that assist veterans with wellbeing initiatives and housing benefits. R&B Artist and Navy Veteran B. Taylor shares his continued passion for the military and why his service was key to leading him to his musical career. Army LTC (ret.) and Merging Vets and Players National Director J.C. Glick, and former Major League Baseball star Slade Heathcott discuss MVP’s mission and how it helps veterans and former athletes manage issues such as post-traumatic stress, career-separation anxiety, and other challenges. Veterans Benefits Administration Home Loan Guarantee Service Executive Director Jeff London discusses VA home loans, the Cares Act, and how veterans can maximize their home-buying experience. Navy, B. Taylor — Not only did B. work as an Aviation Electronics Technician, but he also played football, basketball, and played music at a birthday party for Snoop Dog’s mom. [2:24] B. describes how the opportunity to make music with Snoop Dog came to pass. [7:53] Wise words from a football coach led B. to follow his musical ambitions and work with Motown greats. [9:57] In addition to making hit singles, B. created 1 Life Wellness Centers to assist military, veterans, and first responders to overcome mental health afflictions. [15:55]   Army LTC (ret.), J.C. Glick & MLB’s Slade Heathcott — J.C. recalls his time of service in an elite Army unit. [22:33] Striving to be the best you can be is a commonality of being a baseball player and military service. [24:12] J.C. describes how Merging Vets and Players (MVP) was founded and its mission. [27:07] Slade appreciates the trust and accountability of the MVP program. [36:44]   Veterans Benefits Administration Home Loan Guarantee Service Executive Director, Jeff London — Jeff describes what makes the VA home loan guarantee a great option for service members and veterans. [42:01] How veterans can find out if they are eligible for VA home loans. [46:21] The mission of the VA home loan program is to help veterans obtain, retain, and adapt homes. [49:35] Veterans can benefit from the Cares Act forbearance during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. [54:49]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit:   Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program B. Taylor @btaylorofficial on Instagram Merging Vets and Players (MVP) Veterans Administration Home Loan Info or 877-827-3702

20 Jan 20211h 3min