Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.In this episode, we dive into the inspiring stories of WQW long-time photographer Mike MacLeod and BFM Alumni Blaine Holom, who both have unique experiences in photography and the military.The conversation begins with Blaine and Mike sharing their motivations for enlisting in the military and how their decisions impacted their lives. They reflect on their transitions into military life, the roles they took on, and the challenges they faced, particularly when transitioning back to civilian life after their combat experiences.The episode shifts to photography, with Mike discussing his long-standing involvement with WQW and his role in helping to create its Photography program in 2022. Blaine, who joined the program in 2023, shares his journey into photography and his experience within the program. Both Mike and Blaine explore how photography has played a significant role in helping them find purpose and personal fulfillment post-military.They also delve into the artistic side of photography, discussing the evolution of the WQW Photography program, their favorite types of photos and Mike shares his advice for aspiring professional photographers and highlights some memorable moments from his time with WQW. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.In this episode of Built for More, we dive deep into one of the core pillars of the program: connection. Joined by three incredible WQW alumni—Army Veteran and staff member Katie Megahee, Air Force Veteran Aaron May, and Marine Corps Veteran Buck Chambers—the conversation explores the power of building meaningful relationships, both with fellow veterans and in everyday life.Aaron and Buck share their backgrounds, military experiences, and how they got involved with the Built for More program. The group discusses the vital importance of connection, especially for veterans, and how it directly impacts mental health and well-being. Katie leads a discussion on the Harvard study that highlights the life-changing benefits of strong relationships and why the Built for More program places such a heavy emphasis on fostering these bonds.As the episode unfolds, the veterans reflect on their personal journeys, discussing the challenges of losing connections after leaving the military and how they found renewed community through BFM. They also explore how their coaching roles with youth teams have been transformed by their experiences in the program and share practical insights on how to cultivate and maintain meaningful relationships.Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about the role of connection in personal growth, and how veterans can strengthen their bonds to enhance both their own lives and the lives of others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.A core pillar of our Built for More Program—and really all of our programs from the beginning—is the deep immersion in nature that participants experience in our programs.In this exciting episode, we welcome John Barklow, Senior Product Manager at Sitka along with Brian Gilman, CEO of Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW). Together, we dive into one of WQW’s favorite topics—the transformative power of nature. Brian and John discuss how WQW’s partnership with Sitka was formed and why nature plays a crucial role in veterans' post-military transition. John shares his personal journey from military service to becoming a leader in the outdoor and hunting community, reflecting on the challenges he faced and how time spent outdoors helped him navigate life after service.We explore the science behind WQW’s Built for More program, which immerses veterans in nature with a purpose. Brian explains the physiological and psychological benefits of outdoor experiences, while John shares personal stories of how the wilderness has shaped his life.As avid hunters, both guests discuss their love for hunting, their most memorable hunting experiences, and what the sport has taught them. John also provides expert advice for veterans looking to get into hunting, and offers practical survival tips for thriving in unforgiving outdoor environments.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about adventure, perseverance, and the healing power of nature! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join me for a very special episode in honor of Memorial Day as I sit down with Dr. Pat Scannon, MD, PhD, Founder of Project Recover, and Dr. Derek Abbey, PhD, the organization’s CEO.Project Recover is a nonprofit dedicated to locating, recovering, and repatriating U.S. service members who have been listed as Missing in Action (MIA) since World War II. Their mission is a powerful blend of cutting-edge technology, historical research, and deep-sea exploration, all aimed at bringing closure to families who have waited decades for answers.In this episode, I had the opportunity to learn about Project Recover’s global search and recovery efforts, the challenges they face, and the profound impact their work has on the loved ones of MIAs. From remote jungles to the depths of the ocean, their efforts honor the sacrifice of those who never made it home, ensuring they are not forgotten.Tune in for this moving conversation about service, sacrifice, and the mission to bring our heroes home.Learn more about their work at ProjectRecover.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an special episode with Warriors & Quiet Waters Founder Colonel Eric Hastings! Eric reflects on his history and experiences serving in Vietnam and explains why he and his late wife, Jean, chose to start Warriors & Quiet Waters in 2007. He also expresses his gratitude for the generous volunteers and donors who supported him and played a pivotal role in shaping Warriors & Quiet Waters into what it is today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an inspiring episode with United States Post-9/11 Combat Veteran Navy Corpsman Steve Flemming! Steve takes us through his personal journey—detailing why he chose to serve, his experiences during his time in the military, and the challenges he faced. He opens up about his Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, followed by a rare diagnosis of stage 4 Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Cancer while still serving in the military. Through it all, Steve’s resilience shines as he shares his remarkable story and his mission to support other veterans navigating similar health struggles.For more information or support on service-related cancer, visit the HunterSeven Foundation's website at https://hunterseven.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an inspiring episode of The Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast as we sit down with WQW Alumni and Army veteran Shaun Tichenor. In this heartfelt conversation, Shaun takes us through his personal journey—from why he decided to join the military to his experiences and challenges during his service. He opens up about the struggles he faced, the triumphs that kept him going, and the profound impact Warriors & Quiet Waters had on his healing and growth. Don’t miss this incredible story of resilience, hope, and transformation.This podcast was made possible by The Amicus Foundation, and John and Sheila LakeIf you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for the second season of the Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast, where we sit down with WQW Fishing Guides Ryan Caldwell and Sean Gifford, along with WQW Staff and Guide Jesse LeNeve! In this episode, we hear the stories of how Ryan, Sean, and Jesse became fishing guides. They offer valuable advice for anyone interested in pursuing a guiding career, share the pros and cons of the job, and, of course, plenty of laughs along the way!This podcast was made possible by The Amicus Foundation and John and Sheila LakeIf you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an exciting episode with Warriors & Quiet Waters Alumni Advisory Council Vice Chair & Marine Corps Veteran, Brett McCoy!In this episode, Brett shares his personal experience going through his first fishing experience with Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW) and the Alumni Engagement Program. We also dive into questions submitted by you, our audience, as well as some of the frequently asked questions we get about the program.Don’t miss this insightful conversation with a dedicated veteran and passionate advocate for WQW's mission! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.A call to action: Join us for the final episode in our series before the Question & Answer episode. This episode will inspire you to be an agent for positive change in your community. Veterans are uniquely equipped to be leaders and pillars in their communities: Our country needs you. You are Built for More. Portraits of Courage: https://www.bushcenter.org/events-and-exhibits/portraits-of-courageThis podcast was made possible by The Amicus Foundation and John and Sheila LakeWe are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q&A episode.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for another inspiring episode featuring Warriors & Quiet Waters alumni, Navy veteran Cal Brierley and Army veteran Ryan Losonsky. In this conversation, we’ll explore the themes of Potential and Purpose as they reflect on their experiences in the Built for More Program.Both Cal and Ryan felt a profound loss of purpose upon transitioning out of the military. They’ll share how the Built for More Program equipped them with valuable tools to rediscover their sense of purpose and unlock their potential once again.Tune in for an uplifting discussion filled with insights and personal stories that highlight the journey from struggle to renewal!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q & A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW) is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an insightful episode featuring Mark Schwartz and Jim Sheridan, two veterans who have made significant impacts in their communities after transitioning from military service.Mark served 33 years in the United States Army as a Green Beret, with extensive experience overseas in the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa. His final assignment was as the United States Security Coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Now living in Colorado, Mark is the Owner and Principal of Indelible Alliance LLC and currently serves as the WQW Board Vice Chair.Jim dedicated 23 years to the Army as a Field Artillery Officer, retiring in 2020 after 14 deployments to Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. Now based in North Carolina, Jim works for Anduril, and, along with his wife Jessica, has been actively involved with WQW since 2020 as both alumni and volunteers.In this episode, Mark and Jim discuss the struggles veterans face during their transition out of the military and explore the concept of thriving—both personally and within their communities. Tune in for a candid conversation about resilience, support, and the path to thriving after service!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q & A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for a powerful episode featuring veteran husband and wife, Dan and Carissa Hendrix, as they share their transformative experience with the Built for More Program and its impact on their family.Dan, who served in the United States Army from 1993 to 2014, faced significant challenges, including losing a leg in a training incident and battling cancer. Carissa, who served 11 years and deployed twice to Iraq, has her own inspiring story of resilience and overcoming struggles.Tune in to hear their heartfelt accounts of growth and resilience and discover how the Built for More Program has helped them navigate their journeys together. This episode promises to be both moving and motivating!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q&A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for another episode in our mini-series on Holistic Wellness, featuring Warriors & Quiet Waters staff member, program alumni, and Army Veteran Katie Megahee. Katie served in the United States Army and is a licensed Physical Therapist. In this episode, Katie discusses her personal experiences and insights on the significance of holistic wellness, especially during her own journey in our Built for More Hunting Track.Tune in to hear how addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—played a crucial role in her healing process and overall well-being. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q & A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an enlightening Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast featuring United States Navy Chaplain Lieutenant Commander Paul Rodgers, as we explore the vital topic of Spiritual Wellness.Lieutenant Commander Rodgers played a key role in developing the spiritual fitness program for Naval Special Warfare Training Groups, including BUD/S. He shares insights on how spiritual fitness is integrated into elite military training and discusses its importance in helping veterans find their sense of identity, value, and purpose as they transition out of service.We’ll dive into the three elements of spiritual fitness featured in our Built for More Program: personal faith, foundational values, and moral living. Discover how to differentiate between religion and spirituality and learn why spiritual fitness is essential for overall wellness. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that will inspire and uplift!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for an engaging episode of the Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast, featuring Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Karen Mitchell! In this episode, we explore the crucial topic of physical wellness and Karen’s journey with the Warriors & Quiet Waters Foundation.Karen will share her insights as a Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, focusing on key areas that promote overall wellness. We’ll discuss the importance of sleep, particularly for post-9/11 combat veterans, and Karen will offer practical tips to improve sleep hygiene and tackle common sleep disorders.Tune in to learn how small changes can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q & A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for the first full episode of the Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast! In this episode, we’re excited to hear from WQW staff and retired Command Sergeant Major Larry Weidinger, who served 30 years in the U.S. Army and National Guard. We’ll also welcome Randy Newberg, creator of popular YouTube shows like On Your Own Adventure and Fresh Tracks, as well as the Hunt Talks Radio podcast.This episode centers around identity, one of the key pillars of our flagship program, Built for More. Larry and Randy share their personal journeys of grappling with identity, offering heartfelt stories and insights that resonate deeply. Tune in for an engaging conversation that sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of finding oneself.We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q & A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warriors & Quiet Waters is a veteran service organization (VSO) and an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones to thrive and live purpose-driven lives through peak experiences in nature, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community.Join us for a trailer episode of the Warriors & Quiet Waters Podcast, featuring Chief Executive Officer and retired USMC Colonel Brian Gilman, along with Chief Program Officer and retired USMC Master Gunnery Sergeant Chip Raybon. We dive into the history of WQW, the motivation for creating our innovative Built for More Program, and how we aim to make a meaningful impact!We are recording a Q&A episode, so if you have questions about an episode or Warriors & Quiet Waters in general, please email podcast@wqwf.org and we will answer your questions at our Q&A episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode features U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel (Reserve) and Reveal Technology founder Garrett Smith, joined by Warriors & Quiet Waters CEO Brian Gilman. Garrett shares his journey from enlisting in the Marine Corps after 9/11 alongside his younger brother, serving as an enlisted rifleman, and later commissioning as a ground intelligence officer. He recounts deployments to Afghanistan, counter-narcotics work in South America, and strategic missions in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting how his Reserve career offered flexibility and diverse experiences.Garrett discusses the challenges and resilience involved in transitioning from active duty, crediting his church and family community as vital to his stability. He contrasts his transition with his brother’s more difficult post-service experience, underscoring the importance of sustained community investment before and after leaving the military.The conversation also explores how his military intelligence background informed his civilian career, the role of mentorship, and how unexpected opportunities eventually led him to found Reveal Technology, despite initially having no formal background in business or tech. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” – Marjorie MooreIn honor of National Nonprofit Day, we’re spotlighting the people and organizations working daily to strengthen communities and serve others. In this episode, we sit down with representatives from the Travis Manion Foundation, Samaritan’s Purse, and Team Red, White & Blue to learn what drives their missions, how they support veterans and their families, and how you can take part.Whether you're looking to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more, this conversation offers real ways to get involved and give back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.