Promise Keeper's Podcast

In this heartfelt episode, we revisit with Renee and her husband John as they share their deeply personal journey dealing with the loss of their son Kyle, who battled PTSD and addiction after his military service. Renee opens up about her regrets, the signs she missed, and Kyle's untimely death by suicide. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing PTSD symptoms, seeking help, and supporting both veterans and their families. They also talk about the unique challenges of military ...

In this episode, hosts Frank and Ray discuss the intricate realities of PTSD and suicidality among military personnel with Dr. Kara Von Dresner Rothschild, a prescribing psychologist. Dr. Von Dresner Rothschild shares her experiences from working in forensic psychiatry to treating military personnel and the unique challenges it entails. The conversation covers her unconventional yet highly effective approach to treatment, the importance of addressing underlying problems rather than symptoms, ...

In this episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast, we welcome Major Tim Booth, the Director of Veterans Affairs for Lackawanna County, and a 20-year Army National Guard veteran. The discussion focuses on the importance of cooperation and partnerships in supporting veterans, understanding the difference between the Veterans Affairs and Veterans Administration, and the various benefits and programs available to veterans. The episode emphasizes the need for veterans to be proactive in seeking help ...

In this heartfelt episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast, co-host Frank Sepko is joined by Dave Ragan and Ray Stender to tell the impactful story of Airman Shannon Purcell. The discussion covers Shannon's legacy, her contributions, and the immense community support that brought her home after her tragic passing. Featuring an emotional conversation with Shannon's father, Dave Purcell, this episode highlights the resilient spirit of the community, the role of Veterans Promise in advocacy, and t...

Join us for an extraordinary episode of The Promise Keepers Podcast, recorded at the Penn Stater in State College, featuring our special guest, Lavar Arrington. Renowned former NFL player and Penn State legend, Lavar dives deep into his life, sharing heartfelt stories about his upbringing, his incredible football career, and the profound impact of his father's military service. Lavar also opens up about the importance of supporting veterans and the incredible work he's doing with Veterans Pro...

In this episode, we feature a powerful and emotional recounting from Victor, a veteran who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Victor shares his vivid and heartfelt experiences from the battlefields of Germany to the chilling encounters at Chosin Reservoir. He discusses the impact of these wars, the loss of fellow soldiers, and his ongoing struggle for military transparency and recognition for his men. This episode highlights the importance of organizations like Veterans Promise, the ...

In this touching episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast, hosts Frank Sepko and Ray Stender engage in profound conversations with Tracy Riley and Renee Martinuk, mothers of Sergeant Michael Bender and PFC Kyle Sylvester, respectively, who both lost their lives to suicide. Their stories highlight the deep impacts of military PTSD and the personal battles faced by veterans. These emotional narratives highlight the importance of recognizing mental health issues and fostering support among soldier...

Join hosts Frank Sepko, Dave Ragan, and Ray Stender in this heartfelt episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast as they welcome Army veteran Joey McCormick and Navy veteran Patrick Hart. Hear their moving stories about joining Veterans Promise, an organization devoted to supporting veterans' reintegration into civilian life. Dive deep into discussions on the challenges veterans face, the profound sense of brotherhood and community within Veterans Promise, and the crucial importance of genuine su...

Join Frank Sepko, Dave Reagan, and Ray Stender from Veterans Promise as they sit down with Denise Carey, a licensed clinical social worker from the Scranton Vet Center, on the Promise Keepers Podcast. This heartfelt episode explores Dave's powerful journey through recovery, highlighting the critical role of the Scranton Vet Center’s services and support. Denise elaborates on the comprehensive, confidential assistance offered to veterans and their families nationwide. Dive into discussions abo...

Join hosts Frank Sepko, Dave Reagan, and Ray Stender on an emotional episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast, where they are joined by Marine veteran Tim Morris to recount stories of profound honor, sacrifice, and brotherhood. This powerful narrative explores the mission to recover the remains of Sergeant Fernando Padilla-Ramirez during the early days of the Iraq War, highlighting the intense bravery and dedication of the U.S. military. The episode also explores the deep bonds forged among ser...

This episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast welcomes Sgt. Eric Darling (US Army Ret.), Executive Director of Valhalla Veteran Services. Follow along as Eric explains the mission of the Valhalla Veterans Services organization, focusing on mental health counseling and suicide prevention for veterans. We also hear about personal stories, that speak to the struggles and bonds formed in the military and the significance of community and camaraderie in overcoming post-service challenges. We also hi...

Join hosts Frank Sepko, Dave Ragan, and Ray Stender on the Promise Keepers Podcast as they engage in a profound discussion with Dr. Megan Velo-Zorzi of Redbird Mental Health about veteran mental health and PTSD. This episode sheds light on the struggles veterans face in transitioning to civilian life, the stigmas surrounding mental health, and the importance of seeking professional help. Hear personal stories, explore trauma-based therapy, and learn about the crucial role of community and adv...

This episode explores the profound impact of military service, PTSD, and the devastating effects of suicide on a veteran's family through the lens of Stephanie Granville, the widow of Staff Sergeant Joseph Granville. It presents an intimate narrative of Stephanie's journey through love, tragedy, and the challenges of coping with loss and personal struggles. Addressing her late husband Joe's battle with PTSD, their family's experiences with deployments, and the broader themes of sacrifice and ...

This episode of the Promise Keepers Podcast weaves together profound narratives of veterans' valor, struggles, and journey toward healing. Our guest, Sergeant Major Kevin Bittenbender, shares with us the concepts of the power of purpose, passion, and positive attitude, and the critical role of initiatives like the Veterans Promise in fostering an environment of support and honor for those who have served. Listen along as the Sergeant Major pays tribute to the legacy of his fallen brothers and...

This episode brings together judges, veterans, and advocates to discuss the transformative role of Veterans Courts within the criminal justice system. Featured guests, including Judges Michael Barrasse and Tom Munley (U.S. Army Ret.), alongside advocates Dave Reagan (U.S. Army Ret.), Ray Stender (U.S. Army Ret.), and Frank Sepko, delve into how these courts provide veterans facing legal challenges with a restorative justice approach, emphasizing support over punishment. Through personal stori...