In today’s episode, we are joined by two remarkable veterans, Tom Roskowski and Matthew Allen, who have dedicated their lives to supporting the mental health and well-being of their fellow servicemen and women. With firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the challenges veterans face, Tom and Matthew are committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health within the veteran community.

In this conversation, Tom and Matthew highlight the vital role of peer support in a veteran’s journey to healing and recovery. They also share details about impactful initiatives like the Veterans Response Team, a program that trains veteran law enforcement officers to provide immediate assistance and direct veterans in crisis to mental health resources.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories, discover valuable resources for veterans and their families, and learn how you can be a part of their important mission.

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

0:00 – Intro
2:07 – Getting to know Tom and Matthew
2:40 – The biggest challenges facing veterans today
17:50 – Supporting veterans struggling with mental health
25:12 – The Veterans Response Team
32:49 – The power of peer-to-peer contact and connection
39:10 – Recovery is a journey + final thoughts

Learn more about this week's guests

Tom's Bio

Matthew's Bio

EPISODE LINKS

Find a VA location near you

https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Buck’s County Suicide Prevention Task Force

https://www.buckscounty.gov/972/Suicide-Prevention-Task-Force

Hold On You Matter Prevention Resources

https://holdonyoumatter.com/

Get involved with the Veteran’s Subcommittee and more

holdonyoumatter@gmail.com

tcroskowski@buckscountry.org

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Jeremy Stalnecker is the co-founder and executive director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation and a retired USMC Infantry Officer. In our last episode, we spoke with him about Mighty Oaks Foundation’s mission to help veterans and their families heal from PTSD and other traumas through faith-based programs. He is back with us today to discuss how veterans can find purpose and redemption in the midst of chaos and trauma.

In this episode, Jeremy draws from the biblical stories of Elijah and Nehemiah to show how serving others can be a powerful way to heal personal wounds. He shares practical wisdom on perseverance, faith, and overcoming fear and self-doubt. Stay tuned for powerful insights that can help you or someone you know on the path to recovery and healing.

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

0:00 – Intro
2:07 – Using your story to help others
9:35 – The story of Nehemiah
15:02 – Being willing to fight for yourself

Jeremy Stalnecker

Jeremy Stalnecker seeks to help others answer one of the toughest questions we all face, “How do I move forward when my world is falling apart?” Jeremy is the Co-Founder of the Mighty Oaks Foundation dedicated to helping America’s military warriors and their families who are suffering from the unseen wounds of combat such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In addition to his current role, Jeremy has served as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, and as Senior Pastor. He is an accomplished author, inspirational speaker, and a frequent guest on some of America's most prominent news networks. When not working, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or getting ready for an upcoming Ultra Marathon.

EPISODE LINKS

The Mighty Oaks Foundation:

https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are very excited to be sitting down with Jeremy Stalnecker, co-founder and executive director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, over the next two episodes. After returning from Iraq as a USMC Infantry Officer, Jeremy, like many veterans, faced challenges when transitioning to civilian life. It wasn't until a fellow Marine introduced him to Chad Robichaux and the Mighty Oaks Foundation that Jeremy found a new purpose.

The Mighty Oaks Foundation, a faith-based organization, is dedicated to helping veterans and their families recover from PTSD and other traumas. The foundation offers a range of programs, including those for men, women, and marriages, all designed to provide support and healing. Tune in to learn more about the transformative work taking place within this program and to hear Jeremy’s inspiring message of hope and recovery.

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

0:00 – Intro
1:31 – Jeremy’s life and journey
9:57 – The mission at Mighty Oaks
13:25 – Different programs at Mighty Oaks
16:06 – Getting involved and connected

Jeremy Stalnecker

Jeremy Stalnecker seeks to help others answer one of the toughest questions we all face, “How do I move forward when my world is falling apart?” Jeremy is the Co-Founder of the Mighty Oaks Foundation dedicated to helping America’s military warriors and their families who are suffering from the unseen wounds of combat such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In addition to his current role, Jeremy has served as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer, and as Senior Pastor. He is an accomplished author, inspirational speaker, and a frequent guest on some of America's most prominent news networks. When not working, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his wife and four children, training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or getting ready for an upcoming Ultra Marathon.

EPISODE LINKS

Chad Robichaux's Episode:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1871691/13962753

The Mighty Oaks Foundation:

https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Mary LaMarre. With 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Mary now serves as the Client Relations Director at Visiting Angels. From home care to dementia care, Visiting Angels offers a range of support systems designed to improve the quality of life for veterans. Their mission is to “make living life enjoyable to the greatest extent possible.”

One of the key takeaways from this conversation is the importance of reaching out for help before a crisis occurs. Mary explains that many veterans and their families wait until they are in a dire situation before seeking assistance. By asking for help early on, they can receive the support they need before any serious health issues arise. Tune in to learn more about the incredible work being done by Visting Angels and how they are making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

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

0:00 - Intro
0:52 – Getting to know Mary
3:00 – How Visiting Angels supports veterans
5:15 – Working with families
6:48 – The care assessment process
11:05 – Ensuring veteran’s safety + getting the word out
14:36 – Asking for help before a crisis happens

Mary LaMarre

Check out Mary's bio HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Find a Visiting Angels location near you

https://www.visitingangels.com/

The Visiting Angels hotline

484-770-8479

To get involved as a helper call 484-770-8479 and speak with human resources

Safe and Steady Fall Prevention Resource

https://cdn.visitingangels.com/brochures/Safe-and-Steady-A-Fall-Prevention-Resource1.pdf

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In today’s episode, we’re honored to feature Myra Fields-Rouse, a retired army officer with 22 years of service. After being injured during her deployment to Afghanistan in 2003-2004 and dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain, Myra has channeled her experiences into helping other veterans.

Today, she serves as the Veterans Initiative Manager at the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services (DBHIDS) in Philadelphia. In this role, she oversees a holistic approach to supporting veterans, addressing everything from housing and food security to mental health and substance use treatment. She also talks to us about her work in Veterans Court, which offers veterans an alternative path through the criminal justice system that focuses on treatment and rehabilitation.

Tune in to hear Myra’s inspiring journey, message of hope, and to learn more about the resources available to veterans through DBHIDS and other organizations.

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

0:00 - Intro
1:18 – Getting to know Myra
5:46 – Myra’s role with DBHIDS
10:15 – The Veteran’s Court
15:21 – Housing assistance for homeless veterans
17:26 – Myra’s message: There is always hope

Myra Fields-Rouse

Check out Myra's bio HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Get in touch with Myra

Email: myra.fields-rouse@phila.govor
Work Cell: (215) 498-8671

DBHIDS
https://dbhids.org/

DBHIDS on X
https://x.com/dbhids

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are excited to welcome you to season 3 of Untold Valor! To kick off the new season, we had the honor of speaking with Felecia Coffee, a remarkable community leader in Collingdale, Pennsylvania, dedicated to serving veterans and those in need. Her mission? To bless others as she has been blessed.

Felecia is at the forefront of numerous community initiatives, including The Empowerment Zone, an organization she founded to provide 24-hour emergency food coverage to veterans and essential services to senior citizens and children in need. Her work shows the powerful impact community support can have on the lives of those who have served our country. Stay tuned to learn about the incredible things The Empowerment Zone is doing to serve the Collingdale community!

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

0:00 - Intro
1:52 - Getting to know Felecia
3:47 – The Empowerment Zone + support for veterans
5:47 – Felecia’s community initiatives
10:18 – Supporting The Empowerment Zone + Getting in touch with Felecia
11:50 – What’s coming up for The Empowerment Zone
14:58 – Final takeaways + Felecia’s message to our listeners

Felecia Coffee

Check out Felecia's bio HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Get in touch with Felecia

215-760-6780

The Empowerment Zone Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Empowerment-Zone-100064002821807/

The Empowerment Zone Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/empowerment_zone/?hl=en


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

Bryan McCauley is a Marine Corps veteran, former firefighter, police officer, and detective with a powerful story. As the director of the Heroes program at PA Recovery Center, he is deeply passionate about helping fellow veterans and first responders navigate their path to recovery.

He joins us today to share his story and speak from personal experience, having confronted his own demons and emerged stronger on the other side. Throughout the episode, Bryan reminds us that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward reclaiming one’s life. Listen in as he shares his insights on seeking help, breaking the silence surrounding suicide, and finding hope in darkness.

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

0:00 - Intro
1:35 – Bryan’s time in service + as a first responder
2:44 – Battling addiction and anxiety + Bryan’s catalyst to seek help
6:03 – The need for proactive support + open conversations about suicide
9:38 – How the PA Recovery Center has grown + how you can get in touch
12:21 – Taking the courageous step to get help

Bryan McCauley

Bryan’s journey has been shaped by his service in the United States Marine Corps, followed by roles as a firefighter and police officer/detective. In 2019, he transitioned to become the director of an addiction treatment program for veterans and first responders, a position deeply resonant with his own recovery journey that began in September 2010.

Benefiting from treatment himself, Bryan's passion for aiding others facing similar struggles ignited. Understanding the unique challenges veterans and first responders encounter, especially regarding trauma's cumulative effects, he has dedicated his career to providing support and guidance.

Graduating from Alvernia University with a degree in Addictions and Mental Health, Bryan earned recognition with the George Vogel Award for academic excellence. He completed an associate counselor's program, refining his ability to blend passion with competence and cultural competency in client work. Currently pursuing a master's degree at Gwynedd Mercy University, Bryan serves as President of the Counselors for Social Justice Chapter and is a member of various professional associations.

Today, Bryan serves on the St. Joseph’s University Phoenix Training Team and directs the Heroes Program at Pennsylvania Recovery Center. There, he fosters an environment prioritizing healing and growth, driven by empathy and a deep understanding of the recovery journey.

EPISODE LINKS

PA Recovery Center

https://pennsylvaniarecoverycenter.org/

Bryan’s cell phone

267-228-4466

Bryan’s email

BryanM@PARecoveryCenter.com

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are honored to welcome Darcy Rideout back for today's episode. Alongside Reverend Ben, she's here to highlight an important event organized by Voice & Vision and CompeerCORPS on May 21st, 2024. The A.S.A.P. (Advocating Suicide Awareness & Prevention) Seminar will be a space where veterans, mental health professionals, and the community can unite to advocate for prevention strategies against veteran suicide.

Tune in as Darcy and Reverend Ben share the details and goals of this (completely free) event. We highly encourage anyone struggling or those who want to help to sign up and attend using the link below!

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

0:00 – Intro
1:54 – The ASAP event and details
5:41 – The goals of this event
8:04 – The power of reaching out and making connections

Darcel (Darcy) Rideout:

Darcel, an 11-year PA Army National Guard veteran and mental health advocate, now owns a graphic t-shirt company and is pursuing clinical psychology. She's also a board member of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania.

Darcel was awarded two Army Achievement medals during service. Following a series of traumatic experiences during her service in the Army National Guard, she was diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Fortunately, she received no-cost mental health care through Cohen’s Veteran Network, which she credits with changing her life.

Now Darcel is an advisory board member at the Cohen Military Family Clinic as a Veteran Advocate. Since overcoming her challenges with mental health, Darcel shares her journey to reach others who are struggling with mental health.

Reverend Ben:

Benjamin, a southwest Philadelphia native and Navy veteran, served as a Hospital Corpsman during Desert Storm. He was deployed to Diego Garcia and Okinawa, and was attached to Fox Company in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Post-military, Ben worked in a men’s shelter, gaining diverse experiences in mental health and addiction recovery. While battling cancer, he earned an associate degree in biblical science from Lancaster Bible College. In 2019, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in human services and is pursuing a master’s in counseling, set to graduate in 2024.

Now Assistant Pastor and Outreach Coordinator at Philadelphia Baptist Church, he runs a food cupboard aiding 150-200 families weekly. With his wife, Marcia, they serve with the love of Christ, helping alleviate suffering in West Philly.

EPISODE LINKS

Register for the A.S.A.P Seminar

https://shorturl.at/ntRSX

Get in touch with Darcy

rideout.darcel@yahoo.com

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.