DAV Podcast

Join Brian Buckwalter on the DAV Podcast for an incredible story of resilience and purpose as he speaks with  Jarod Behee. Twenty years ago, an enemy sniper's bullet in Iraq nearly took Jarod's life. This episode goes beyond mere survival, exploring Jarod's remarkable journey of recovery and how he built a life of unwavering strength in community and dedicated service. From his challenging therapies to his vital role as Sergeant at Arms for DAV Chapter 12, Jarod's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit and a living example of how to live powerfully and purposefully, every single day.

This DAV podcast episode, hosted by Jonathan Kaupanger with guests Matt Jahn and Steve Wolf, demystifies the crucial Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for veterans seeking disability benefits. The discussion covers what a C&P exam is, its purpose, how to prepare, common pitfalls like downplaying symptoms, and veterans' rights during the exam. The hosts and guests also address common complaints about C&P exams, such as rushed assessments and unqualified examiners, emphasizing the importance of providing feedback and seeking assistance from organizations like DAV. Ultimately, the episode aims to alleviate veteran anxiety by providing comprehensive information and support for navigating the C&P exam process.

The "DAV Podcast: Her Service" dives into the largely untold stories of women's contributions during the American Revolutionary War. Host Jonathan Kaupanger, a self-proclaimed history "nerd," enthusiastically introduces listeners to Meg Bowersox, Manager of Gallery Interpretation at the Museum of the American Revolution. This episode highlights the lives of trailblazing figures like Deborah Sampson and Hannah Snell, who disguised themselves as men to enlist, exploring their motivations, challenges, and the societal context of their actions. Beyond these recognized veterans, the podcast also delves into the "gray areas" of history, discussing the debated realities of other influential women such as the mysterious Agent 355, the formidable Nancy Morgan Hart, the all-female "Mrs. David Wright's Guard," and the intriguing wax sculptor and alleged spy, Patience Lovell Wright, encouraging listeners to seek out and celebrate the diverse contributions of women veterans throughout history.

In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Brian Buckwalter speaks with Dr. Ben Park, Director of the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, about the critical state of cancer research and its direct impact on military veterans. Dr. Park highlights the groundbreaking progress in cancer treatment, including innovative cellular therapies performed at the Nashville VA Hospital, and expresses grave concerns over recent, unprecedented funding cuts. He emphasizes that these cuts not only jeopardize patient lives and the continuation of life-saving research but also hinder the training of future medical professionals, ultimately undermining the commitment to provide veterans with the best possible care they deserve.

This DAV Podcast features an inspiring conversation with Chef Robert Irvine, a culinary maestro, television personality, author, and ardent advocate for veterans. Irvine shares his remarkable journey, from joining the Royal Navy at 15, to his rise as a celebrated chef who has cooked for royalty and heads of state. He discusses how his military service instilled in him invaluable leadership skills and a direct communication style that has propelled his diverse career, from cruise ship kitchens to founding successful food brands. Irvine also highlights his passion for giving back, particularly through his foundation, which focuses on the mental and physical well-being of veterans, and his involvement with DAV's Patriot Boot Camp, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship for veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.