In this episode of Untold Valor, we sit down with Shaun Hall, Director of Programming at the Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC). Since 2008, VBC has created spaces (both in-person and online) where veterans from all eras and branches can share their stories, connect with one another, and preserve history for future generations.

Shaun shares how he discovered VBC through his theater work, why storytelling is so powerful in the veteran community, and how the organization pivoted during the pandemic to expand its reach nationwide. From intimate one-on-one interviews to large gatherings with hundreds of attendees, the VBC provides a safe, welcoming place where every veteran’s voice matters. Learn how you can join, listen, and support this mission of connection, healing, and inspiration.

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

🎭 Shaun’s journey from theater to the VBC

🥞 How VBC grew from local breakfasts in Pittsburgh to a national community

📖 The power of storytelling to connect, heal, and inspire

📚 Preserving stories through magazines, history projects, and one-on-one interviews

💡 Why listening is the best way to thank a veteran

0:00 – Intro

1:01 – Getting to know Shaun and VBC

6:16 – The power of storytelling

7:22 – VBC events and getting involved

11:36 – Highlighting lesser-known conflicts and stories

16:09 – Shaun’s message to listeners

Shaun Hall

Shaun is host and producer of VBC’s podcast, The Scuttlebutt. He is not a veteran but has a passion for veterans’ stories. Shaun received his BFA in Acting from Point Park University in 2004 and has spent over a decade in the non-profit sector supporting missions that focus on storytelling.

Veterans Breakfast Club

https://veteransbreakfastclub.org/

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode of Untold Valor, we welcome Sarah Schwager, Program Lead for the King of Prussia chapter of Project Healing Waters, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans heal through the therapeutic power of fly fishing. Founded in 2005, Project Healing Waters now serves veterans across 48 states with over 200 programs nationwide. Sarah shares how her lifelong passion for fishing and background as a certified trauma therapist come together in her work with veterans recovering from both visible and invisible wounds of service.

From casting lessons and fly tying to group outings and community events, the program offers far more than fishing- it provides camaraderie, confidence, and connection for those who have sacrificed so much. Sarah also explains the many ways listeners can support the mission, from volunteering to donating equipment or funds.

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

0:00 – Intro

2:06 – What is Project Healing Waters?

3:01 – How Sarah got involved in this project

5:05 – Recovery through Project Healing Waters

9:04 – PHW Women on the Fly

10:51 – The therapeutic power of fishing and community

13:31 – Getting involved

22:02 – Sarah’s message to our listeners

Sarah Schwager

Learn more about Sarah HERE

Project Healing Waters

https://projecthealingwaters.org/

Ways to Give

https://projecthealingwaters.org/ways-to-give/donate-now/

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this powerful kickoff to Season 4, we’re joined by Kimberly Hollenback, Regional VOCA Supervising Attorney with Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Kim shares how her team helps victims of domestic violence- especially veterans and their families- navigate difficult legal situations involving restraining orders, custody battles, financial abuse, and more.

Domestic violence isn’t always visible. Emotional, psychological, and financial abuse are equally damaging and often harder to spot. This conversation explores how trauma, PTSD, and addiction can intersect with domestic violence, making it harder for survivors to ask for help. Listeners will also learn how trauma-informed legal support can help survivors regain a sense of control and safety.

If you or someone you know feels trapped, isolated, or unsure of what to do next, there are confidential resources available and professionals who can help.

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

0:00 – Intro

1:47 – Meet Kim and her work with LASP

3:06 – How domestic violence shows up in veteran communities

3:58 – Getting help: legal aid, income caps, and VOCA funding

7:51 – The different forms of abuse

11:32 – Common barriers to getting help

12:41 – What led Kim to this career

14:58 – Final thoughts: You’re not alone, and help exists

Kimberly Hollenback

Learn more about Kim HERE

EPISODE LINKS

LASP

https://www.lasp.org/domestic-violence

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode of Untold Valor, we sit down with Grace Caulfield, LPC, and Clinic Director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals. With over 24 years of experience, Grace shares how her team provides timely, comprehensive mental health support to service members, veterans, and their families.

Grace discusses how the clinic reduces barriers to care, offers services via telehealth across several states, and focuses on early intervention as prevention. She also explains how trauma can ripple through families and the importance of treating the entire support system alongside veterans and service members.

Don’t miss this powerful message of hope and for a reminder that the difference between illness and wellness is just one word: we. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone.

#Season3

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

0:00 – Intro

3:34 – Getting in touch with the team

4:56 – How Grace found herself in this role

7:07 – The importance of family care and early intervention

12:13 – The power of telehealth services

13:57 – Grace’s message to our listeners

Grace Caulfield

Learn more about Grace HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic Website:

https://www.easterseals.com/DCMDVA/programs-and-services/cvn-home.html

Services Provided:

https://www.easterseals.com/DCMDVA/programs-and-services/cvn-services.html

OTHER RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by The Honorable John P. Capuzzi Sr., a senior judge in Delaware County, who has spent the past several years helping veterans and others in crisis find their footing again. Judge Capuzzi oversees Veterans Court, Mental Health Court, the Second Chance Court for substance abuse, and a program aimed at reducing gun violence among young offenders.

You’ll learn how the Veterans Court works and focuses on treatment, support, and long-term recovery rather than immediate incarceration. Judge Capuzzi shares what it’s like to sit next to veterans in court, listen to their stories, and connect them with the help they need to turn things around. Tune in as he talks about relapse, recovery, second and third chances, and why he believes no one should be given up on.

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

0:00 – Intro

1:19 – Judge Capuzzi’s background

2:12 – Understanding Veterans Court

10:40 – Judge Capuzzi’s journey to helping veterans

13:41 – The power of accepting help

18:23 – Final thoughts and encouragement

The Honorable John P. Capuzzi Sr.

Learn more about Judge Capuzzi HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this gripping follow-up episode, retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack returns to share the lasting impact of surviving a horrific insider attack during his time with the 101st Airborne. He shares the emotional and strategic fallout of that day, and how it reshaped his understanding of trust, leadership, and personal safety.

Tune in as Bart offers powerful, practical lessons drawn from his experience. From spotting red flags to understanding the “proximity illusion,” he breaks down the situational awareness strategies that can help prevent violence before it happens. Bart also shares his advice for fellow veterans navigating the transition to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding your tribe, staying connected, and reaching out to those who’ve walked a similar path.

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

0:00 – Intro

1:37 – The attack and its impact

6:22 – Strategies to mitigate insider threats

11:42 – The impact of society, mental health, and lack of faith in today’s world

14:25 – Embracing situational awareness

18:05 – Final thoughts and advice

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Visit Bart’s website HERE

Read The Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of The Embedded Enemy HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

We are honored to welcome retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack to the podcast today. With over 29 years of distinguished service in the United States Army, he’ll share his story from enlistment to leading thousands of soldiers in the 101st Airborne Division.

In the first of a two-part conversation, Bart reflects on his early days in the military and the leadership lessons that shaped him. He recounts a harrowing insider attack at Camp Pennsylvania in 2003- an event that left soldiers wounded, lives lost, and a community forever changed. You’ll also hear how Bart navigated the transition to civilian life, found healing through storytelling, and used his experience to shape his book, Embedded Enemy.

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

0:00 – Intro

2:29 – Bart’s time in service

6:47 – Helping soldiers find strength in themselves

10:54 – Bart’s transition to Hollywood

15:20 – The transition to civilian life

17:26 –The Embedded Enemy incident and its impact

27:42 – Bart’s advice for veterans

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Bart HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Read Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of Embedded Enemy HERE

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

We’re honored to be joined by Clarence Jones today, a Marine Corps veteran whose own struggles after service ignited his passion for helping others. After facing challenges that led to a medical discharge, Clarence experienced firsthand the difficulties many veterans encounter when transitioning to civilian life. Determined to make a difference, he now works with the Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC) to connect veterans with critical resources for housing, mental health, and addiction recovery.

In this episode, Clarence shares how CAADC and the Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) programs are making a real impact, providing veterans with the tools they need to regain stability and independence. If you or someone you know is struggling with housing insecurity, financial hardships, or other post-service challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

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

0:00 – Intro

1:09 – Getting to know Clarence

4:39 – Understanding the CAADC and SSVF

6:47 – The main struggles veterans face

8:03 – No veteran left behind

12:23 – How veterans can get help from Clarence and the team

Clarence Jones

"My name is Clarence E Jones Jr. I work for CAADC the SSVF (Support Services for Veterans Family) dept. I'm a USMC Disable Vet. I have been at the company for 5 years. The SSVF was established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and aims to rapidly re-house homeless Veteran families and prevent homelessness for very low-income Veterans at imminent risk due to a housing crisis. It provides case management, temporary financial assistance, and supportive services to help individuals and families gain housing stability and end their homelessness."

EPISODE LINKS

CAADC Website:

https://caadc.org/

SSVF Website:

https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html

RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q