In this episode, we sit down with Army veteran and survivor advocate Jaimie Ames, co-founder and CEO of Operation Host, to explore the often-unspoken realities of military sexual trauma (MST) and PTSD among veterans. Jaimie shares her personal journey, her time in the Army, and the lived experiences that shaped her mission to create survivor-led, peer-to-peer support systems that actually meet veterans where they are.

The conversation dives into why trauma is never “one-size-fits-all,” how survivor-led peer support creates a sense of trust and understanding, and the powerful impact of alternative healing tools like equine therapy and guided self-reflection. Jaimie also introduces Operation Host’s upcoming PTSD healing workbook and explains how learning to recognize personal triggers can be a life-changing step toward healing.

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

• How Jaimie’s Army service and lived experience shaped Operation Host
• Why trauma and healing look different for every veteran
• The power of survivor-led, peer-to-peer support
• The purpose behind Operation Host’s upcoming PTSD healing workbook
• Learning to identify personal triggers before symptoms escalate

0:00 – Getting to know Jaimie

1:59 – Operation Host’s mission

6:41 – The PTSD healing workbook and identifying triggers

11:05 – Getting involved with Operation Host

12:59 – Encouragement for veterans hesitant to seek help

Jaimie Ames

Jaimie Ames is a U.S. Army veteran who served six years and is the co-founder and CEO of Operation HOST (Healing Our Sexual Trauma), a peer-led nonprofit supporting veterans (both male and female) living with the trauma of sexual assault and PTSD. She holds a degree in business and accounting and brings decades of experience in community service, organizational leadership, and survivor advocacy. Jaimie has recently partnered with international bestselling author Richard Paul Evans to further develop Operation HOST and to co-create a comprehensive PTSD healing workbook, slated for release in early 2026. As an MST and PTSD survivor herself, she combines lived experience with trauma-informed leadership to build safe, compassionate spaces where veterans can reclaim connection, hope, and healing.

Episode Links

Operation Host:

https://operationhost.org/

Volunteer with Operation Host:

https://operationhost.org/join-our-cause/

Donate to Operation Host:

https://operationhost.org/giving-back/

EPISODE 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, we’re joined by Army veteran and founder of Green Star Families of America, Matt Cahill, for an honest conversation about life after military service and the unseen battles many veterans face. Matt reflects on his years as an Army medic, the physical and emotional weight that followed retirement, and how personal loss shaped his mission.

He shares the vision behind Green Star Families- an effort to bring national recognition and meaningful support to families who lose a veteran to suicide- and explains why mental health deserves the same urgency as physical battlefield care.

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

• Matt’s path from Army medic to veteran advocate
• The mental and physical toll of long-term military service
• Why Green Star Families exists and what it represents
• How improving military mental health care can benefit civilians

0:00 – Intro

1:25 – Matt’s background

6:20 – Starting Green Star Families

11:16 – Fixing military mental health

17:46 – Find your mission

Matthew Cahill

Learn more about Matt HERE

Episode Links

Green Star Families of America

https://greenstarfamilies.org/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/green_star_families?igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg%3D%3D

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/GREENSTARFAMILIES

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@green_star_families?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

EPISODE 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 Margo Cianchetta, Director of Philanthropy for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation- and a proud Marine Corps daughter and former scholarship recipient herself. Margo shares the Foundation’s remarkable 60-year mission of honoring Marines by educating their children, including Navy Corpsmen and chaplains who serve alongside them. She explains how the program began with one act of generosity and has grown into more than $235 million in scholarships awarded worldwide. Listeners will learn how to apply, how families can get support, and how donors or volunteers can get involved in shaping the futures of Marine families.

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

• The mission: Honoring Marines by educating their children
• Over $235M in scholarships awarded since 1962
• Support for college, technical, and trade education
• Application window: Jan 1 – Mar 1, 2026 (annual)
• Ways to give- from QCDs to legacy gifts
• Volunteer opportunities across the country

0:00 – Intro

2:20 – Getting to know Margo

3:40 – Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation history

7:00 – Regional and national reach

8:25 – Upcoming application window & requirements

11:34 – Ways to give: donations, QCDs, legacy gifts

13:16 – Volunteer committees & events

Margo Cianchetta

Margarita, “Margo” Cianchetta is currently the Director of Philanthropy at the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Margo joined the Scholarship Foundation in 2022. She brings more than 15 years of philanthropic & development experience to the organization. In her current role, Margo is responsible for cultivating meaningful relationships between investors and the Scholarship Foundatin’s mission by Honoring Marines by Educating Their Children in the Northeast region. Margo earned her undergraduate degree in Communications, Summa Cum Laude, from Rutgers University, and also holds the prestigious Certified Fundraising Executive credential (CFRE). Margo is a proud MCSF Scholarship recipient alumna as her father, Sergeant Major Mario Cianchetta USMC (Ret.), served for 28 years in the Marine Corps. Margo is an avid marathon runner and currently resides in Middletown, NJ.

Learn more about the Marine Corps Scholarship Program:

https://www.mcsf.org/

Apply:

https://www.mcsf.org/apply/

Donate:

https://support.mcsf.org/site/Donation2?df_id=3569&3569.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&_gl=1*1q87ah1*_ga*MzY4NTE1NTY0LjE3NjU5MDkzMzU.*_ga_H3CPP0X6R0*czE3NjU5MDkzMzUkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjU5MDk4NTYkajYwJGwwJGgw

EPISODE 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 Army veteran and Navy civilian, John Bond. After 18 years of service and a challenging transition into civilian life, John found stability, connection, and renewed purpose through Team Red, White & Blue’s community-centered approach to veteran wellbeing.

He joins the show to share how the organization supports veterans of all ages and abilities, why belonging is critical after service, and what makes Team RWB’s physical, social, and emotional programs so effective.

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

• John’s journey from the National Guard to the Navy
• How psychology and leadership studies shaped his military and civilian career
• The emotional challenges of transitioning out of service
• Why Team Red, White & Blue is a lifeline for veterans seeking connection
• How Team RWB supports all abilities through accessible wellness challenges

0:00 – Intro

2:07 – Meet John

6:57 – Transitioning out of the military

8:25 – Team Red, White & Blue

12:10 – Meeting veterans where they are

14:17 – Getting connected

John Bond

Learn more about John HERE

Team Red, White & Blue:

https://teamrwb.org/

EPISODE 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, we sit down with Will Dengler, a US Air Force veteran and founder of Euno Health. After completing his service, Will noticed significant gaps in the mental health care system and became determined to explore alternative modalities that could provide relief and healing. His journey led him to create Euno Health- a digital platform dedicated to connecting veterans with integrative mental health resources and various therapeutic options beyond conventional talk therapy.

Listen to learn more about this powerful service and how it is helping veterans embrace healing.

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

• Will’s Air Force journey & motivation
• Integrative and alternative wellness modalities
• The THERAPY+ podcast
• Building trust within the veteran healthcare community
• How Euno Health connects veterans with the right providers

0:00 – Intro

1:22 – Will’s background

5:56 – Alternative mental-health modalities

10:01 – Why veterans need providers they can trust

15:08 – Will’s advice for veterans

Will Dengler

Will Dengler is a U.S. Air Force veteran and founder of Euno Health, a platform connecting veterans, service members, and their families with trusted therapists, healers, and emerging approaches to mental health care. He is also the creator of the THERAPY+ podcast, which features solo talks by leading experts sharing evidence-based and holistic approaches to healing.

Check out the THERAPY+ Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/4YDx1cli1TQ1rT3d7UXTVo

Learn more about Euno Health:

https://eunohealth.com/

Veteran Wellness Resource Hub:

https://eunohealth.com/resources

EPISODE 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 speak with Pastor Ben Wright, a retired Air Force veteran with 22 years of service, about his time in the military and his transition to ministry. Ben shares his experiences from flying C-130s during the Vietnam War and the airlift of refugees from Saigon in 1975, to his role in supporting the reunification of Germany.

He discusses the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life and the importance of having a plan for life after military service. This episode highlights the healing power of storytelling, the camaraderie among veterans, and the critical role of faith in navigating life's toughest moments.

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

• Ben Wright's Military Service: 22 years in the Air Force
• The Saigon Airlift: Ben's role in evacuating refugees from Saigon in 1975
• Post-Military Transition: The importance of planning for life after service
• Veteran Support: How the Veterans Breakfast Club helps preserve veteran stories and provide healing
• Faith and Service: Ben’s journey from the Air Force to ordained ministry and how faith shaped his life

0:00 – Intro

1:29 – Ben’s time in service

12:26 – Ben's journey into ministry

14:51 – Ben’s work with veterans

18:22 – Airlift operations

21:17 – Final thoughts

Ben Wright

Learn more about Ben Wright here

EPISODE 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 of Untold Valor, U.S. Army veteran, speaker, and author Vanessa Morbeck opens up about her journey through trauma, survival, and recovery. After enduring multiple assaults during her military service and navigating years of isolation and injustice, Vanessa shares how she’s worked to rebuild her life- finding strength in motherhood, faith, and fitness. This is a raw, emotional, and deeply human story about resilience, redemption, and the ongoing fight for healing.

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

• Vanessa’s military journey and the challenges she faced after assault
• How PTSD has impacted Vanessa’s story
• The role bodybuilding has played in her recovery
• Finding motivation through motherhood
• The power of faith, community, and consistency in the rebuilding process

0:00 – Intro

1:21 – Getting to know Vanessa

5:05 – Body building and self-healing

6:30 – Finding purpose in the pain

Vanessa Morbeck

Vanessa Morbeck is a U.S. Army veteran, author of Unseen Unheard Soldier, and a motivational speaker dedicated to empowering survivors of trauma. As a single mother and wellness athlete, she uses her story to inspire resilience, healing, and transformation. Through her platform, Vanessa advocates for mental health awareness, veteran support, and body positivity, encouraging others to reclaim their strength in both body and mind. She is preparing for her first bodybuilding competition in September 2025 as a way to give back gratitude and respect to the veteran community.

EPISODE LINKS

Check out Vanessa’s book:

https://www.amazon.com/Unseen-Unheard-Soldier-Military-Autobiography-ebook/dp/B08FHD9H7R

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

This episode, we’re taking a step back from our usual interviews to spotlight the mission of CompeerCORPS. Marc sits down with Reverend Ben, who shares how simple acts of companionship can transform lives, particularly for veterans facing isolation, mental health challenges, or the unique struggles of aging. From casual conversations to community outings, the goal is to ensure no veteran feels left behind.

Reverend Ben also highlights how volunteering- even just a few hours each week- can make a huge difference. Whether through a phone call, a shared activity, or simply listening, veterans helping veterans is at the heart of recovery and resilience. Tune in to discover how you can get involved, access resources, or simply learn more about building meaningful connections within the veteran community!

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

🤝 CompeerCORPS builds veteran-to-veteran support

🎯 Mission: companionship, friendship, and connection

🕰 Small amounts of time = big impact

💬 Listening is life-giving and healing

🧓 Senior veterans especially need connection

0:00 – Intro

1:26 – The power of companionship

4:24 – Overcoming stigma around mental health

5:32 – Fighting isolation

6:37 – Why senior veterans need connection

9:51 – CompeerCORPS’ needs

Reverend Ben

Learn more about Reverend Ben here

Get in touch with CompeerCORPS:

800-734-5665

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