In this episode, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Matt Watkins, a Marine Corps veteran who spent 14 years serving as an F-18 mechanic, recruiter, and leader. Matt opens up about the pivotal moment he decided to transition out of active duty, the uncertainty that followed, and how he ultimately rediscovered purpose in the civilian world. Today, he serves as the Military Program Manager at Premise Health, where he advocates for veterans, military spouses, and the broader military community. Guest Bio Matt Watkins is a former Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant with deep expertise in aviation maintenance, recruiting, leadership, and talent development. After 14 years of service, he navigated the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, applying his skills in new industries before finding his passion in veteran advocacy and workforce development. In addition to his role at Premise Health, Matt supports the military community through nonprofit work and mentorship. Connect with Matt Watkins Matt is eager to support veterans, military spouses, and service members. Connect with him on LinkedIn or through his nonprofit initiatives for mentorship, guidance, or community resources.
In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes attorney James R. Burn, a seasoned advocate with decades of experience in veterans benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Offering a perspective rarely heard on veterans podcasts, one from a private attorney rather than a VA or state representative, James shares clear, practical insights into how veterans can successfully navigate two of the most complex benefits systems in the country. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the claims process, learn how to avoid unethical “claim sharks,” and discover why early, well-documented action is one of the best ways to ensure success. Key Topics Discussed Differences between VA benefits and SSDI and how they overlapWhy accredited representation matters and how to avoid claim sharksUpdates on the PACT Act and Agent Orange presumptivesFiling strong claims: documentation, timelines, and common mistakesHow AI and technology are improving claims processingThe truth about fraud and why it’s far less common than people thinkWhen veterans should seek legal help and how to verify accreditationWhy it’s never too early to file a claim or ask questions Contact Information For a free consultation or to learn more about James R. Burn’s services visit abesbaumann.com
In this powerful episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with filmmaker Steven Grayhm and therapist Dr. Tara Consolino for an unforgettable conversation about the new veteran-focused film SHEEPDOG. Together, they explore the real-life stories that inspired the movie, the importance of authentic representation of the veteran experience, and the healing that emerges when veterans are given space to speak, share, and reconnect. Steven opens up about the responsibility of telling a truthful veteran story, while Dr. Consolino brings a therapist’s perspective on group therapy, post-traumatic stress, and the transformative journey toward post-traumatic growth. They also highlight the innovative work of Team House Studios, a production company that trains and employs veterans and Gold Star families in film. This is more than a discussion about a movie, it’s a conversation about healing, purpose, and the power of storytelling to bring veterans home in a new way. Resources SHEEPDOG – The MovieTeam House StudiosVet Tix – Free tickets for veterans and first responders Join the Mission If this episode spoke to you, share it with a fellow veteran, friend, or family member. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the show. Follow us for updates and more stories of healing and homecoming.
Dr. Tyler Pieron talks with Michele Spiers from the American Council on Education (ACE) about how service members and veterans can make the most of their education benefits. They discuss translating military training into college credit, understanding the Joint Services Transcript, and using credit for prior learning to fast-track degree completion. 🪖 Key Highlights How ACE evaluates military and industry training for college creditMaking the most of the Joint Services Transcript and CCAFUsing CLEP, DSST, and language exams to earn extra creditOrganizing transcripts and understanding transfer policiesResources for veterans—education centers, virtual counselors, and Student Veterans of AmericaDr. Pieron’s personal education journey from service to PhD ✅ Takeaways Gather all transcripts before applyingUse the ACE Military Guide to identify credit opportunitiesTake national exams to accelerate progressConnect with veteran organizations and advisorsVisit acenet.edu for tools and resources
Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes Craig Robbins, CEO of MilitaryHire.com and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, to talk about the challenges and opportunities veterans face when transitioning into civilian careers. Craig shares his journey from the Marine Corps to leading a major veteran-focused hiring platform, and offers practical advice for job seekers navigating resumes, networking, and modern job boards. What You’ll Learn Craig’s transition story and the mission of Military HireHow the platform connects veterans and employersNew features like AI job matching and “Fill in the Gaps”Resume and networking tips that actually workCommon myths about the veteran job searchWhat the Red Balloon partnership means for the community Top Takeaways Build a strong resume and tailor each applicationUse MilitaryHire.com—no premium upsells for candidatesExpect a 2–3 month job search and stay consistentCombine networking + online applications for the best results Resources MilitaryHire.comRedBalloon.work Call to Action If you’re a veteran, service member, or military spouse seeking your next step, create your free profile at MilitaryHire.com. Employers looking for top military talent can connect there as well.
Host Dr. Tyler Pieron speaks with Tony DeMaio, founder of Helping Heroes USA, about suicide prevention for veterans and first responders. Tony shares his journey from Project Hero to launching Helping Heroes USA, and how communities—not just professionals—can step up to save lives. Highlights The impact of suicide on families and communitiesHow isolation fuels risk—and why connection mattersRecognizing warning signs and starting supportive conversationsThe role of local organizations like American Legion posts and fire stationsHelping Heroes USA’s mission to train “support angels” in every communityTony’s upcoming book It’s a Silent Battle and free webinars Guest Bio Tony DeMaio is the founder and CEO of Helping Heroes USA, dedicated to equipping everyday people with tools to support those at risk of suicide. Resources helpingheroesusa.orgNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (press 1 for veterans) Be sure to subscribe and share!
Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with renowned international relations scholar Dale Copeland to unpack the evolving dynamics of US-China relations through the lens of history, economics, and strategic theory. Drawing from his influential book A World Safe for Commerce, Copeland introduces listeners to his groundbreaking concept of dynamic realism—a framework that blends liberal and realist theories to explore the critical question: Does trade promote peace or conflict among great powers? Together, they discuss: 📚 The ongoing debate between liberal and realist views on trade and conflict🔍 How dynamic realism reframes great power competition🇨🇳 China's growing reliance on global trade and internal political pressures⚔️ Military strategy and economic dependency in shaping foreign policy🪨 The strategic significance of rare earth minerals and resource control🔮 Predictions for the future trajectory of US-China relations Subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! #USChinaRelations #ForeignPolicy #DaleCopeland #Geopolitics #InternationalTrade #ComingHomeWell #DynamicRealism #GreatPowerCompetition #RareEarths #GlobalStrategy
In this enlightening episode of Coming Home Well, host Tyler Pieron sits down with Doug Lynam, a man whose life journey defies convention. From growing up in a wealthy family to embracing the hippie lifestyle, serving as a U.S. Marine, spending 20 years as a Benedictine monk, and ultimately becoming a financial advisor, Doug shares powerful insights on navigating the complex relationship between money and meaning. Doug draws from his books Taming Your Money Monster and From Monk to Money Manager to offer practical financial advice grounded in deep psychological wisdom. He discusses how veterans can overcome common financial challenges and how understanding your inner "money monster" can transform your financial health and emotional well-being. Connect with Doug: douglynam.com 👉 Subscribe & Support the Show: If you found this episode valuable, please rate, review, and share Coming Home Well. Your support helps us bring more insightful conversations to veterans and their communities.
In this episode of the Coming Home Well podcast, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Stephanie Samuels, founder and director of Copline—a crucial support hotline for law enforcement officers and their families. Together, they explore the unique challenges first responders face, the significance of mental health resources, and how Copline provides a safe, confidential space for officers in need. Tune in to hear how this lifeline is breaking down barriers and making a lasting impact in the law enforcement community. https://www.copline.org/
In this episode, we delve into the inspiring parallel narratives of military veterans returning home from their tours of duty and multiple myeloma patients facing their relentless battles for survival. We explore both groups' challenges, including emotional, mental, and physical struggles, as they strive for healing and remission. Join us as we highlight the collaboration between Coming Home Well and the Kut2ThaChase Foundation for the project "Reclaiming Life: A Cancer Story of Hope," an upcoming documentary which aims to raise awareness and support for these courageous individuals. The film seeks to be a catalyst for meaningful conversation about life after cancer and the remarkable journey of the group as they navigate Camino de Santiago to inspire hope, foster understanding, and generate support for both groups. Ultimately, "Reclaiming Life" serves as a reminder that healing is a journey taken one step at a time, and that together, we can reclaim our lives and embrace the promise of a brighter future. Special Guest: Gregory Proctor - Coming Home Well: https://cominghomewell.com/ - Kut2ThaChase Foundation: https://k2tcpodcast.com/ - "Reclaiming Life: A Cancer Story of Hope" Project: https://reclaiming-life.com - Relevant mental health resources and support networks for veterans and cancer patients. Connect with Us: - Follow us on social media: FB Group Reclaiming Life: Reclaim, Rise & Thrive - Join our community for updates and support: [website] https://reclaiming-life.com/ [donations] https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/join-the-movement-reclaiming-life-a-cancer-story-of-hope - Share your thoughts and experiences with us by emailing info@reclaiming-life.com. - Interested in learning more about our guest Gregory O. Proctor, please visit https://gregoryoproctor.com or to purchase his book FAITH, STRENGTH, AND COURAGE: A Memoir of Overcoming Adversity & Embracing Life's Journey, please visit https://a.co/d/ajX5IA3 Call to Action: If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, donate, rate, and review our podcast. Share it with your friends and family to help us spread the message of hope and resilience. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of veterans and cancer patients.
Dr. Tyler Pieron engages in a heartfelt conversation with poet Jehanne Dubrow, who shares her unique perspective as a military spouse and author of three poetry collections focused on the military experience. Jehanne discusses her creative process, the challenges of maintaining a long-distance marriage, and how her poetry serves as a voice for military spouses. Join us for an enlightening discussion that blends personal narratives with the art of poetry, and discover how art can help process complex emotions. jehannedubrow.com
Dr. Tyler Pieron engages in an enlightening conversation with Tunisha Miles and KL Allen from Western Governors University (WGU). They discuss the unique educational opportunities WGU offers, particularly for military personnel and veterans. Discover how WGU's competency-based learning model, affordable tuition, and supportive mentorship programs are designed to accommodate the unique challenges faced by military members and their families. Whether you're looking to further your education in technology, business, health, or education, WGU provides a flexible and supportive environment to help you succeed. Tune in to learn more about how WGU is making education accessible and effective for those who serve. https://www.wgu.edu/
Dr. Tyler Pieron introduces listeners to a new addition to the CHW Streaming Radio channel lineup: the Gold Shields Show. Co-host Tom Smith, a retired NYPD detective, joins the conversation to discuss the unique approach of Gold Shields in highlighting true stories from law enforcement and military backgrounds. With over 100 episodes, the podcast delves into real crime cases, mental health challenges, and the unsung heroes behind the investigations. Tune in to discover the stories that go beyond the headlines and the importance of addressing mental health in these high-stakes professions. The Gold Shields Show
Join Dr. Tyler Pieron on this heartwarming holiday episode of Coming Home Well as he converses with John Hughes Wilson, retired British Army, about the remarkable Christmas Truce of 1914. Discover the humanity that emerged amidst the horrors of World War I, as soldiers from opposing sides laid down their arms to celebrate Christmas together. This episode delves into the history of fraternization in warfare, highlighting the unique events that unfolded on that fateful Christmas Day. Tune in for a poignant reminder of the shared humanity that transcends the battlefield. https://johnhugheswilson.co.uk/
Tyler welcomes Guy Jaquier from Operation Encore, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veteran musicians. Discover how Operation Encore helps bridge the gap between the military and civilian communities through music. Guy shares his journey, the mission of Operation Encore, and how they support veteran and military spouse artists in their professional music careers. Learn about the selection process, the importance of community, and the impact of music in veterans' lives. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on music, military service, and the power of storytelling. Operation Encore | A Veteran Music Project
Join Tyler as he engages in a conversation with Jeremy Stalnecker from Mighty Oaks Foundation. Discover the impactful work of this organization, which provides invaluable support to veterans, active duty service members, and first responders struggling with PTSD and other challenges. Learn about the unique, faith-based, non-clinical approach that Mighty Oaks employs to help individuals reclaim their identity and purpose. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of transformation and find out how you or someone you know can access these life-changing programs. https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/
Join Dr. Tyler Pieron as he engages in an enlightening conversation with Colonel John Hughes-Wilson, a 30-year veteran of the British Army and Intelligence. Delve into the fascinating world of military intelligence blunders and cover-ups, as Colonel Hughes-Wilson discusses his renowned book, "Military Intelligence Blunders." Discover the intricacies of intelligence failures from historical events like the Singapore fall and the Falklands War, to recent conflicts such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This episode offers a captivating blend of history, insights, and lessons learned from intelligence mishaps. Don't miss this thrilling exploration of military history and intelligence! https://johnhugheswilson.co.uk/books/non-fiction/military-intelligence-blunders-and-cover-ups/
Joining Dr. Tyler Pieron once again is author William "Bill" Bonk about the hidden dangers faced by veterans at Fort McClellan. Uncover the chilling history of chemical and biological exposures at this military base, which has been largely overlooked by government and media alike. Bill discusses his extensive research compiled in his book, "Exposure: Surviving Historical Fort McClellan," providing a detailed account backed by government documents and primary evidence. This episode sheds light on the toxic legacy of Fort McClellan and the ongoing battle for recognition and justice for affected veterans. https://www.amazon.com/Exposure-Surviving-Historical-Ft-McClellan/dp/1943226512
In today’s episode of Coming Home Well, Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with William "Bill" Bonk, a semi-legend in the intelligence and law enforcement community, to discuss his riveting book, "Apprehended: Riding Shotgun with the U.S. Marshals in the 1990s." Bill shares gripping stories from his time with the U.S. Marshals, including the apprehension of a fugitive who had been on the run for decades. Tune in to hear about the fascinating details of these cases, the challenges faced in law enforcement, and the unique insights from Bill's extensive career. https://www.amazon.com/APPREHENDED-Riding-Shotgun-Marshals-Mid-90s/dp/B0BGN5WZ17
Dr. Tyler Pierron sits down with Christine Collins, a former Air Force nurse who shares her incredible journey from a rural town in Arizona to the war zones of Afghanistan. Christine recounts her experiences, the challenges she faced, and the resilience she developed. They discuss her new book, "Service, Honor, and Sacrifice: Memoirs of a War Nurse," which discusses the emotional and physical toll of war, the camaraderie among service members, and the struggle to readjust to civilian life. This episode is a raw and heartfelt exploration of the sacrifices made by military medical personnel and the enduring impact of their service. Tune into our CHW Streaming Radio and the full lineup at cominghomewell.com Download on Apple Play and Google Play Online-Therapy.com ~ Life Changing Therapy Click here for a 20% discount on your first month. Thank you for listening! Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and leave us a REVIEW!