Episodes

  • Crayon Box Politics, VA Benefits, and Changing Parties: An Open Conversation with Carl Able
    Feb 24 2026

    On this episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with Marine Corps veteran Carl Able to dive deep into a life of service, transition, and the drive to make a difference after the military. Carl shares candid stories—from his unique path into intelligence work, experiences in Iraq, learning new languages at Monterey, and navigating the world of veterans' benefits. The conversation opens up about the challenges and rewards of leaving the military after 20 years, dealing with VA disability, and why it matters to speak openly about these benefits.

    They also discuss Carl's ambitions for entering politics, the importance of veteran representation in government, and the idea of making November permanently recognized as Veterans Month. Tune in for a genuine, engaging conversation that covers service, sacrifice, community, and what it means to advocate for change. If you're interested in the realities of military life, veteran transition, and how to make your voice heard, this episode is packed with insights.

    Find Carl Able at crayonboxpolitics.com and on all major podcast platforms.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcautPodcast #CarlAble #VeteranStories #MilitaryService #MarineCorps #Politics #VeteransBenefits #GIbill #VeteranSupport #CrayonBYoxPolitics #MilitaryLife #VeteranAdvocacy #CongressRun #AmericanVeterans #PodcastInterview #MilitaryTransition #VeteransMonth #FirewalkForVets #NavyStories #ArmyFamily #LanguageLearning #PoliticalJourney #CommunityInvolvement #NorthCarolinaPolitics #CaliforniaVeterans

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    48 mins
  • Getting What You Deserve From The VA With Johnnie Gilpen
    Feb 17 2026

    On this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes physician assistant and Navy veteran Johnnie Gilpen, who shares his journey from the Oklahoma National Guard to the Navy, and ultimately finding his calling in medicine. Together, they dive deep into the realities and aftermath of military service—from handling life-changing injuries to navigating the complex VA benefits process.

    Hear firsthand how Johnnie Gilpen tackles the challenges of medical retirement, deals with long-term health effects, and leverages his experience to help fellow veterans secure their benefits. The conversation is packed with practical advice for those seeking compensation, tips to organize your VA paperwork, and insights about why Nexus letters can make all the difference.

    Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or someone interested in supporting those who served, this episode offers invaluable information delivered with honesty and humor. Plus, learn about Johnnie Gilpen's ongoing work in emergency medicine, his role as a Tillman Scholar, and how he's helping vets nationwide.

    Tune in for real talk about service, sacrifice, and finding your way after military life—with plenty of camaraderie and actionable wisdom along the way.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteransBenefits #CMPExam #NexusLetter #VAProcess #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #PhysicianAssistant #VeteranStories #VeteranWellness #VeteransEducation #TillmanScholar #PTSDSupport #MilitaryMedicine #VAClaims #VeteransResources #PodcastRecommendations #EdParcaut #JohnnyGilpin #JohnnieGilpen

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    50 mins
  • Marine Corps: Lesson and Life After Service
    Feb 10 2026

    Join host Ed Parcaut as he welcomes Marine Corps veteran Jerry Clark for an inspiring episode of Helping The Brave. Jerry shares his journey from West Texas to Vietnam, his experiences as an 0311 grunt, and how his military service shaped his life. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, the importance of finding purpose, and overcoming invisible "blind spots"—especially those born from military training.

    Jerry discusses how his struggles led him to become a counselor, supporting others for over 30 years. Together, Ed and Jerry explore veteran support groups, the fight for VA benefits, PTSD stigma, and the power of community. Jerry also talks about his book, Blind Spots in Relationships, and how veterans can find practical help through his website and the Transition Plus organization.

    Whether you're a veteran, someone who supports them, or just want to hear stories of courage and resilience, this episode offers wisdom, practical advice, and encouragement.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Jerry's book: Blind Spots in Relationships

    • Jerry's website: jerrydclark.com

    • Veteran support group: transitionplus.org

    Subscribe for more interviews and conversations that help veterans find purpose and build a brighter future.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteransSupport #JerryClark #EdParcaut #MarineCorps #VeteranTransition #VietnamVeterans #PTSDAwareness #VeteransBenefits #MilitaryMentalHealth #CounselingForVets #TransitionPlus #HoustonVeterans #BlindSpotsInRelationships #VeteranStories #FirewalkForVets #VeteransGroup #MilitaryFamily #SupportOurTroops #VeteranCommunity #VeteranResources

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    34 mins
  • Combat, Recovery and Corporate America: The Omar Ritter Story
    Feb 3 2026

    In this episode, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient Omar Ritter to share his powerful story of service, transformation, and resilience. Omar Ritter opens up about following in his family's footsteps as a Cavalry Scout, his combat experiences in Iraq, and the battle he faced after returning home—a life-altering brain tumor that led to his medical retirement.

    Together, Ed Parcaut and Omar Ritter dive into the challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, the importance of seeking help for mental health, and how pride or lack of awareness can prevent vets from accessing critical disability benefits. Omar Ritter talks about his journey through Columbia Business School, his career on Wall Street, and the mental struggles that continued beyond the battlefield.

    They also discuss veteran advocacy, why every veteran deserves benefits regardless of role or branch, and how to navigate the VA's often confusing disability process—with practical advice listeners can act on. The episode wraps up with Omar Ritter's current work helping businesses as a fractional CFO, and his ongoing passion for supporting fellow veterans through financial and mental wellness.

    If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of support, listen in for tools, inspiration, and a reminder—asking for help is a sign of strength.

    Find Omar Ritter's book, "West Point to Wall Street: My Journey to Mental Wellness," on Amazon or at OmarRitter.com.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #MentalWellness #PTSDawareness #BrainTumorSurvivor #BronzeStar #WestPoint #ArmyVeteran #FractionalCFO #BusinessFinance #VeteranBenefits #VAHelp #VeteranSupport #VeteranAdvocacy #MentalHealthMatters #VeteranSuccess #CombatVeteran #OmarRitter #EdParcaut #PodcastClip #VeteransInBusiness

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    57 mins
  • Serving, Leading, and Sharing Your Fire: Veteran Insights
    Jan 27 2026

    In this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Navy veteran and master communicator John Verrico. Listen in as John Verrico shares his inspiring journey from undisciplined young man to becoming the last master chief journalist in the Navy Reserve, and how his decades of service and unique experiences shaped his career in government public affairs and leadership coaching.

    John Verrico opens up about navigating independent duty on ships, handling everything from shipboard newspapers to media relations, his passion for amplifying the stories of everyday sailors, and the leadership lessons he learned from both supportive and challenging commanders. He and Ed Parcaut discuss the transition from military to civilian careers, finding your purpose, effective communication, and the importance of championing the underdog.

    If you're a veteran, aspiring leader, business owner, or anyone passionate about personal growth and service, you'll walk away with actionable insights on resilience, servant leadership, and discovering your own fire.

    Learn more about John Verrico, his coaching, books, and how he helps others ignite their passion at johnverrico.com.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #JohnVerrico #NavyVeteran #Veterans #Leadership #Communication #PublicAffairs #MilitaryTransition #VeteranStories #ShareYourFire #ServantLeadership #PersonalGrowth #AuthorLife #Coaching #Entrepreneurship #Motivation #Resilience #Podcast #VeteranSupport

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    42 mins
  • Relentless: Dean Logan's Journey from the Air Force to Live Event Directing
    Jan 20 2026

    In this powerful episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut welcomes Air Force veteran D Logan to share an inspiring journey from military service to career transformation. D Logan opens up about serving over twelve years in the Air Force, his dreams of flight, and the realities and challenges of transition after deployment—including navigating PTSD, mental health struggles, and advocating for VA benefits.

    Listen as D Logan describes rebuilding life post-service, finding a new calling in live event production, and the importance of community, resilience, and never giving up on yourself or your family. Learn practical advice about VA disability, navigating the claims process, and ways to maximize your benefits for yourself and your loved ones.

    This episode delivers raw, honest stories about military service, mental health, and the journey toward building a meaningful life after the uniform comes off. If you're a veteran, transitioning service member, or supporter, you'll find encouragement, humor, and hope—plus actionable insights to own your next chapter.

    For motivational speaking, collaboration, and more, connect with D Logan at loganunlimited.com. Don't forget to subscribe if you find these conversations helpful!

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteranStories #AirForceVeteran #MilitaryTransition #PTSDRecovery #VeteranBenefits #VAClaims #LiveEventDirector #VeteranSupport #MentalHealthMatters #GIbill #MotivationalSpeaker #VeteranSuccess #OvercomingAdversity #MilitaryToCivilian #LasVegasLife #LiveEventProduction #DirectingLiveEvents #VeteranNetworking #MilitaryFamily

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    54 mins
  • The Breacher's Playbook: Navy SEAL to Author with Tom Hruby & James Pomerantz
    Jan 13 2026

    In this inspiring episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with former Navy SEAL, football player, and debut author Tom Hruby, alongside seasoned writer James Pomerantz. Together, they reveal the stories behind their new novel, "The Breacher's Playbook"—a thrilling saga loosely based on Tom's real-life experiences from the battlefield to Big Ten football and beyond.

    You'll hear Tom's honest account of why he joined the Navy after 9/11, pursued the challenge of SEAL training, and ultimately transitioned to Division I football at Northwestern University—all while juggling family life. The conversation explores how Tom and James met, the process of co-authoring a novel that blends fiction and authenticity, and their plans for future books in the series.

    Plus, you'll learn about James' journey from journalism and bartending to writing novels, including a fascinating detour with Steven Seagal in Hollywood. The episode unpacks the realities of book publishing today, tips for growing a social media presence, and advice for veterans and athletes looking to share their own stories.

    Whether you're a military veteran, a sports enthusiast, an aspiring writer, or just love a good story of resilience and collaboration, this episode is packed with genuine insight, humor, and actionable takeaways.

    Find "The Breacher's Playbook" on Amazon, Tactical16.com, or the authors' websites. Connect with Tom Hruby and James Pomerantz online to follow their journey—and join the conversation!

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteranStories #NavySEAL #MilitaryService #TransitionStories #BookSeries #TheBreachersPlaybook #PodcastLife #EdParcaut #TomHruby #JamesPomerantz #NorthwesternFootball #VeteranAuthors #MMAFighter #SealToStudent #RealLifeInspiration #MilitaryToCivilian #PodcastInterviews #SupportVeterans #Tactical16 #AuthorCollaboration #Storytelling #Motivation #CombatExperience #PodcastCommunity

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    35 mins
  • From Army National Guard to E-Com Success: Joshua Marsden's Entrepreneurial Journey
    Jan 6 2026

    On this special Veterans Day episode of Helping The Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Joshua Marsden, Army National Guard veteran and founder of ARM5 Formula, to discuss his unique journey from military service to entrepreneurial success. Joshua Marsden shares honest reflections about finding direction after struggling in college, what inspired him to join the Guard, and how the discipline and structure of military life put him back on track.

    You'll hear candid stories about the twists of fate that kept Joshua Marsden stateside, how his family shaped his path, and his transition from the corporate world into building a thriving business in e-commerce acquisitions. Ed Parcaut and Joshua Marsden also dive into the evolving opportunities that veterans have today, the impact of AI and technology on starting businesses, and practical advice for veterans looking to build new careers after service.

    Whether you're a veteran seeking inspiration, an entrepreneur curious about e-commerce, or just looking for a motivating story about resilience and growth, this episode will give you both insight and actionable takeaways. Don't miss Joshua Marsden's thoughts on helping fellow veterans, the value of community and mentorship, and how "everything happens for a reason" rings true in business and in life.

    Connect with Josh Marsden at "JoshScale" on social media, or learn more about acquiring businesses through the Online Business Buyers Club on Facebook.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #VeteransDay #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #EcommerceSuccess #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessGrowth #AIInnovation #BusinessAdvice #Leadership #VeteranEntrepreneurs #CareerJourney #MarketingTips #BusinessAcquisition #ARM5Formula #DigitalTransformation #Networking #Inspiration #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteransInBusiness

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    46 mins