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DAV Podcast

DAV

The DAV Podcast sheds light on important topics and challenges facing America's veterans while also sharing the stories of veterans whom have been impacted by DAV (Disabled American Veterans) through its mission of fulfilling our promises to the men and women that served.

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23 episodes
Avg 27 min
English

Episodes 23

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September 8 · 16 min
Three TBIs and one Caregiver. A love story.
In this powerful episode of the DAV Podcast, we sit down with Marine veteran Hector and his wife, Mary, to explore the raw reality of navigating life after military service, severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and mental health challenges. From an unexpected initial meeting to enduring multiple combat- and service-related injuries, Hector's journey illustrates the invisible wounds of war, while Mary's story highlights the unsung, essential role of military caregivers struggling against systemic isolation. Discover how adaptive sports like the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic sparked a life-changing recovery, saved their marriage, and fueled their mission to advocate for veteran families. Packed with vital insights on VA benefits, TBI recovery resources, and support networks through DAV, this episode is a must-listen for veterans, spouses, and caregivers seeking hope, community, and actionable roadmaps to healing.
August 25 · 15 min· Video
The Million Patient Migration
In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Todd Hunter sits down with VA Deputy Secretary Paul Lawrence for an In-depth look at he Department of Veterans Affairs' massive Electronic Health REcord rollout. The discussion breaks down how the VA is overhauling its federal healthcare infrastructure to streamline operations across 164 medical centers yb 2031. Learn how standardizid technology, centralized leadership and hands-on site support are helping eliminate redundant lab testing, smooth out state-to-state record transfers and reduce administrative screen time for providers. Tune in to discover what these structural shifts mean for local clinics, community care access and the overall patient experience.
August 13 · 40 min
Benefits of the Doubt: Chapter 3: Moleskins, Russian spies and a 40% Fever Dream
In this third chapter of a six-part series on the history of veteran benefits, Benefits of the Doubt explores the high-stakes post–Civil War era. Discover how early administrative hurdles, landmark legislation like the Arrears Act of 1879, and widespread fraud investigations transformed a modest Pension Bureau into a federal powerhouse consuming 40% of the U.S. budget. From the groundbreaking accessibility features of Washington, D.C.'s historic Pension Building to the bustling, 500-acre National Home in Dayton, Ohio—complete with its famous Grotto, zoo, and pioneering horticultural therapy—this episode reveals how early universal design, long-term care plans, and specialized facilities laid the foundation for the modern Department of Veterans Affairs. Tune in to uncover the fascinating history of Civil War pensions, United States Colored Troops barracks, secret love tokens, and the long road from post-war charity to earned military rights.
July 7 · 19 min
Mindscapes: The Mycelium Network
In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Matt Saintsing sits down with Army veteran and full-time artist Sam Juan to explore the cutting edge of psychedelic-assisted healing and veteran mental health. Juan details her incredible military journey—from navigating her initial service prior to citizenship to operating as part of a pilot Cultural Support Team attached to Joint Special Operations Command and Navy SEAL teams in Afghanistan. Beneath her postwar artistic success, however, lay an unraveling reality of unresolved childhood trauma, deployment stress, and a severe dependence on prescription opiates. Juan shares a raw, unfiltered look at her turning point: a grueling 14-hour ibogaine treatment in Mexico that successfully broke her addiction. This episode goes beyond the typical "magic pill" narrative to tackle the crucial policy debates surrounding psychedelic medicine, emphasizing the profound need for ethical sourcing, trained integration services, and community connection—the literal "mycelium network"—to ensure veterans receive high-caliber, lifesaving care. Don't miss an episode of these vital veteran stories! If you found value in Sam's powerful journey, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below to help DAV amplify more voices from our veteran community.
June 23 · 24 min
Benefits of the Doubt: Chapter 2 The Era of Good Feelings (and even better benefits!)
From a bullet-shattered future president in colonial garb to the 19th-century equivalent of a viral shame campaign, Chapter 2, "The Era of Good Feelings (and even better benefits!)" of the six-part Benefits of the Doubt podcast series exposes the dramatic turning points that rescued American veteran care from local charity . Host Jonathan Kaupanger details how President James Monroe used a masterclass in political branding—and a heavy dose of Revolutionary War nostalgia—to pass the ground-breaking Pension Act of 1818, marking the first time the federal government took long-term responsibility for its heroes. But when a panicked Congress tried to claw back funds by aggressively vetting veterans' poverty, it took a freezing night in Philadelphia and a heartbreaking portrait of an elderly soldier in rags to spark an uproar of national guilt. The resulting public outcry forced the passage of the monumental Pension Act of 1832, permanently shattering the degrading "poverty tests," turning veterans from beggars to ballers overnight with massive back-pay checks, and establishing the foundational blueprint for the modern Department of Veterans Affairs.
June 23 · 25 min
Benefits of the Doubt: Chapter 1 Getting things started...
From naked queens and legal piracy to tattered uniforms on city streets, Benefits of the Doubt is a six-part historical podcast by DAV that proves the 250-year evolution of American veteran benefits is anything but boring. Launched in lockstep with America's 250th anniversary, this gripping series renews the sacred contract between the nation and those who paid for its freedom. Ditching dry politics for high-stakes drama, the podcast reveals how civilian-led advocacy—led largely by fierce, noise-making women—rescued veteran care from total neglect. The debut chapter, "Getting things started…," dives straight into the chaotic aftermath of the Revolutionary War, exposing a broke young government scrambling to pay its heroes through early compromises like the Pension Act of 1776 and the Navy's wild, prize-money-fueled "legal piracy." By pairing vivid, 19th-century oral histories with the reflections of modern service members, this series reframes veteran care not as a state charity, but as a hard-earned, unbreakable federal obligation.
May 26 · 25 min
Mindscapes: The Science of Meaning
In this episode of the DAV podcast, host Matt Saintsing sits down with Dr. Amelia Hall, a scholar and faculty advisor for the student veterans' group at Naropa University, to explore a transformative, holistic approach to veteran care. Rather than treating veterans from the premise that they are "broken," Dr. Hall highlights how specialized spiritual, therapeutic, and psychedelic-assisted care gives individuals the tools to heal, reclaim agency, and rewrite their own narratives. She discusses how patients—particularly military veterans process complex trauma, PTSD, and moral injury—can weave mystical or expansive experiences into their specific faith backgrounds or secular practices to foster lasting psychological change. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the value of moving away from internalized pain toward a profound shift in self-identity rooted in inherent goodness, offering listeners a clearer perspective on the breakthrough benefits of specialized mind-body medicine.
May 12 · 15 min
Mindscapes: I went to Mexico and all I got was this reset nervous system
This episode of the DAV Podcast features a powerful discussion on the future of veteran mental health and the emerging role of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Host Rob Lewis sits down with veteran Noah Galloway to explore his transformative experience with ibogaine in Mexico, a potent plant medicine known for its ability to reset the nervous system and alleviate symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Galloway details his spiritual journey—from intense cosmic visions to a lasting sense of calm—while addressing the medical safety of ibogaine clinics and the legislative push for VA-sponsored pilot programs in the United States. As states like Texas and Mississippi explore alternative therapies, this conversation highlights why veterans are leading the charge in destigmatizing psychedelics and advocating for innovative solutions to heal deep-seated trauma. Click here for more information on psychedelic medicine: https://www.dav.org/mindscapes/
April 28 · 6 min
Two questions, no compromise!
In this episode of the DAV podcast, we explore the critical legal protections and everyday challenges facing veterans with service dogs. Featuring a firsthand account from Army veteran William McCasland, the discussion highlights a recent case of service dog discrimination at a hotel in Mississippi, where a handler faced pushback despite adhering to ADA rules. Angelica Williams from the Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division joins the conversation to clarify the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, specifically outlining the only two legal questions business owners may ask: is the dog required because of a disability, and what task has it been trained to perform. From debunking myths about service animal certification to providing resources for filing an ADA complaint, this episode is an essential guide for disabled veterans and business owners navigating service member rights and accessibility laws.
April 14 · 27 min
The War Inside: Understanding the signature injury of a generation.
This episode of the DAV Podcast explores the urgent and evolving landscape of military brain health through a partnership between DAV and the Invisible Wounds Foundation. Host Brian Buckwalter is joined by Dr. James Kelly, a leading expert in brain health, to discuss the signature injury of post-9/11 service: traumatic brain injury (TBI) and repetitive blast exposure. The conversation dives into the critical need for objective diagnostic tools—such as bloodborne biomarkers—to replace subjective clinical assessments and move past the myth that a brain injury requires a loss of consciousness. While addressing the specific challenges faced by veterans, including the high rates of undiagnosed TBIs among women who have experienced military sexual trauma, Dr. Kelly emphasizes a message of hope: specialized, personalized treatment programs are already demonstrating long-term, objective improvements for those living with these invisible wounds.
March 17 · 20 min
Voices on the Hill: Introducing the DAV Advocacy Team
This episode of the DAV podcast, hosted by Matt Saintsing, provides an inside look at the legislative advocates working on behalf of veterans in Washington, D.C. The discussion introduces the new leadership team, including National Legislative Director Jon Retzer and Deputy National Legislative Director Naomi Mathis, who share how their personal experiences as disabled veterans and former service officers inform their advocacy on Capitol Hill. The episode breaks down the impact of three recently signed laws: the Disabled Veterans Housing Support Act (H.R. 224), which protects disability compensation in housing eligibility; H.R. 1823, which mandates stricter GAO oversight of the VA budget ; and the FAST Vets Act (H.R. 4446), which provides flexibility for veterans in the Veteran Readiness and Employment program. Listeners also meet the broader legislative team—Shamala Capizzi, Joseph Lamay, and Kevin Miller—as they outline their specific policy portfolios ranging from toxic exposure and survivor benefits to specialized VA healthcare.
January 21 · 19 min
Your Rating, Your Rights: Mastering the VA's Combined Ratings Schedule
In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Jonathan Kaupanger dives into the "Sudoku from Hell"—the VA's complex Schedule for Rating Disabilities—to help veterans and their families make sense of "VA Math." Joined by Andrew Clark, DAV's Assistant National Service Director, the discussion pulls back the curtain on the Combined Ratings Table and the "whole person theory," explaining why multiple disability ratings don't always add up to the 100% veterans might expect. From navigating the frustrations of diminishing returns to identifying "clear and unmistakable errors" and filing for secondary conditions, this episode provides essential insights and practical advice on how DAV service officers can help you secure the benefits you've earned. Here's more info on the Combined Ratings Table: https://youtu.be/9vaKqZZyg8Q?si=lCOzU6H2OF88VjvH
Dec 30, 2025 · 35 min
From Ramadi to Ayahuasca
Content Warning This podcast contains detailed discussions of sensitive topics, including combat experiences, childhood trauma, and substance abuse. It also includes a first-hand account of a mental health crisis involving a firearm and thoughts of suicide. In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Matt Saintsing sits down with Justin, a combat veteran who served as an infantry Marine in Fallujah and Ramadi. Justin shares a raw and candid account of his journey from enlisting to seek his father's approval to his decade-long struggle as a firefighter masking deep-seated anxiety, depression, and alcohol abuse. While initially believing his suffering stemmed from war-related PTSD, a spontaneous encounter with the psychedelic medicine Ayahuasca led to a profound spiritual awakening. Through this experience and his subsequent work with Save A Warrior, Justin realized the roots of his trauma actually lay in his childhood, leading him to a new path in spiritual chaplaincy and a mission to help others heal through the power of psychedelic integration.
Dec 16, 2025 · 23 min
It's Medicine, Not Dope: A Veteran's Truth About Healing from Trauma
This DAV Podcast episode "It's Medicine, Not Dope" features a profoundly honest conversation with Gigi, a U.S. Army veteran who served for over 22 years, about her struggle with complex treatment-resistant PTSD, depression, and anxiety stemming from multiple sexual assaults both in and out of uniform, and the demanding work of body identification at the Dover Port Mortuary. Gigi recounts her long journey through anger and isolation, the shame she overcame to finally seek professional help, and her life-changing experience with ketamine-assisted therapy, which she describes as creating new, healthier "train tracks" in her brain. Her message emphasizes hope and resilience, especially for veterans from underrepresented populations who are often discouraged from seeking mental health care, reinforcing that the treatment is "medicine, not dope," and encouraging others to utilize available resources like DAV and VA.
Dec 4, 2025 · 34 min
Veteran's Dream: Touch, Believe
This podcast episode features Jenna Naranjo Winters, who discusses her documentary, Dream. Touch. Believe., about her father, Michael Naranjo. Michael is a world-renowned sculptor and a Vietnam veteran who was blinded by a grenade explosion during his service. Despite this profound injury, he became a celebrated artist, relying entirely on touch to create his stunning clay sculptures. Jenna shares the story of her father's extraordinary resilience, his tenacious drive to achieve his dreams, and the indispensable support of her mother, Laurie, who manages his career, highlighting a message of hope, creativity, and perseverance for all listeners, especially the veteran community.
Nov 17, 2025 · 22 min
Resilience and Relief: A Veteran's Perspective on Disasters
This DAV podcast episode focuses on disaster risks relevant to veterans, offering key information on understanding these threats and accessing emergency assistance through DAV and the VA. It explores the unique challenges veterans face during and after natural disasters—including hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and ice storms—which are common in disaster-prone areas like California, Texas, and Florida. Featuring insights from VA psychologists and service members, the episode highlights the resilience and strong desire of veterans to volunteer in disaster relief efforts, discussing the emotional impact (PTSD symptoms) and the need for stress inoculation and mutual veteran support. Listeners learn how to qualify for DAV's emergency financial relief (up to $1,000 for lodging) and supply kits, and the process for contacting their DAV National Service Office for disaster relief assistance.
Sep 23, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Her Service: the Cold War
Her Service: the Cold War dives into the 44-year history of the Cold War, a tense standoff between two global superpowers. Host Jonathan Kaupanger uses a mix of historical facts, unconventional analogies, and humor to describe this era as a "white-knuckled staring contest." The episode, featuring military historian and retired U.S. Army Colonel Christine Cook, shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked but vital contributions of American women veterans. Cook discusses the careers of Generals Mary Clarke and Elizabeth P. Hoisington, trailblazers who challenged gender norms and carved out new roles for women in the military. Additionally, the podcast explores the stories of intelligence heroes like Juanita Moody, a key figure in averting the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the women of the top-secret Venona project, who were crucial to exposing Soviet spies. Ultimately, the episode reveals how these women's quiet bravery and intellectual prowess were instrumental in shaping the course of the Cold War and securing a safer future.
Sep 10, 2025 · 40 min
Fuji Fire: Sifting Ashes of a Forgotten U.S. Marine Corps Tragedy
In this episode of the DAV podcast, host Matt Saintsing interviews Chas Henry, author of "Fuji Fire: Sifting Ashes of a Forgotten U.S. Marine Corps Tragedy." The discussion centers on the devastating fire at Camp Fuji, Japan, in 1979, which killed 13 Marines and injured 60 more. Henry, a Marine Corps veteran and had previously been stationed at the same camp, explains how his personal connection to the site and the shocking discovery that many Marines were unaware of the tragedy inspired him to write the book. He details the events of the fire, which was caused by a super typhoon that breached a berm, allowing 5,500 gallons of gasoline to flow into the camp and ignite. The conversation also explores the harrowing experiences of the survivors, the inadequacy of the camp's fire prevention measures, and the institutional response from the Marine Corps, which, according to Henry, largely suppressed information about the event in its aftermath.
Aug 26, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Psychedelics at this year's National Convention
For years, traditional therapies have fallen short for veterans battling the invisible wounds of war: PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Now, there's a new path forward. Join us on this episode of the DAV Podcast as we dive into the groundbreaking world of psychedelic-assisted therapy. From this year's National Convention, Matt Saintsing hosts a panel exploring this innovative shift in mental healthcare. At DAV, we're not just supporting this research—we're actively advocating for it to bring hope and healing to those who have given so much.
Jul 29, 2025 · 21 min
From Personal Battle to Public Cause: A Veteran's Cancer Journey and Advocacy
This DAV Podcast episode features veteran advocate Jeff Slotnick, a combat engineer whose military service led to an unexpected health battle: a stage four cancer diagnosis linked to environmental toxins from Middle East deployment and other service-related exposures. This must-listen interview delves into his cancer journey, highlighting the critical need for early detection and presumptive conditions under the PACT Act. Slotnick's powerful story is a call to action for veterans' health awareness, cancer screening, and policy change, transforming his personal battle into a public cause for veteran support and advocacy.

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