What happens when a decorated Army lieutenant colonel with 20 years of service faces an unexpected divorce just as she's transitioning to civilian life? For Olivia Nunn, it meant becoming what she calls an "accidental entrepreneur." Despite having what she considered "the master playbook" for military transition from her work with the Army's Soldier for Life program, Nunn found herself at rock bottom, rebuilding her life and career from scratch.

This compelling conversation explores how female veterans can leverage their military experience to build successful businesses, despite facing unique challenges. Nunn, who served 10 years as a chemical officer and another decade in public affairs, shares her raw, honest journey of transformation. She reveals how a simple lunch meeting with a fellow veteran sparked her entrepreneurial journey when he asked, "Where's your LLC?" - reminding her of the valuable skills she possessed but had temporarily forgotten during her personal struggles.

The discussion tackles the primary barriers female veteran entrepreneurs face - particularly access to funding. Despite being the fastest-growing demographic in entrepreneurship across America, women veterans receive the least capital investment. Nunn addresses how women's tendency to seek 100% qualification before applying for opportunities (compared to men's comfort with 60%) creates self-imposed limitations, and how finding the right mentors can make all the difference.

For veterans considering entrepreneurship, this episode offers a treasure trove of free resources - from the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University offering free certification training, to Mill Mentor's online mentorship platform, to organizations like MOAA that serve all veterans regardless of rank. As Nunn powerfully states, "Age, your gender, and where you come from shouldn't stop you. Chase your dreams and don't let fear stop you." Connect with Olivia Nunn on social media to learn more about resources for veteran entrepreneurs.

Hidden in the rolling countryside of Northern Virginia lies a remarkable time capsule preserving one of America's most consequential—yet understudied—chapters of history. The Cold War Museum at Vint Hill stands as a guardian of memories that textbooks have largely forgotten.

Founded by Gary Powers Jr., whose father became an unwitting Cold War icon when his U-2 spy plane was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960, this museum does far more than commemorate a single incident. It honors the hundreds of thousands of veterans who served during this pivotal 46-year conflict that shaped our modern world—many whose stories remain untold.

What makes the museum's location particularly fascinating is that Vint Hill itself was "Listening Post Number One" during both World War II and the Cold War. With unique topographical features and granite soil composition that naturally amplified radio signals, this former Army base intercepted communications from around the globe, from Japanese taxi dispatchers to Soviet embassy transmissions. Walking through the museum feels like stepping into an intelligence operation frozen in time.

The collection astonishes with its breadth and significance. Where else can you find an authentic Stasi headquarters sign from Berlin, examine pieces of a U-2 spy plane shot down during the Cuban Missile Crisis, or explore Washington DC's Civil Defense Headquarters preserved exactly as it was left—books open, cigarettes still in ashtrays? From the technology that kept America vigilant to the cultural artifacts that defined an era of nuclear anxiety, each item tells a crucial story.

Beyond historical curiosity, the museum offers vital context for understanding today's global conflicts. As Powers explains, current tensions with Russia and China, as well as conflicts in regions like Ukraine, follow patterns established during the Cold War. "It's Cold War 2.0," he notes, emphasizing how China's long-term strategic thinking represents a fundamentally different challenge than the Soviet Union posed.

Visit coldwar.org to plan your trip to this remarkable institution. Open weekends and by appointment for private tours, the museum offers an immersive experience that will transform your understanding of history, which continues to shape our world. Consider supporting their preservation efforts—because when we forget the lessons of the Cold War, we risk repeating its most dangerous chapters.

What happens when the system fails those who've sacrificed everything to protect it? Frank Larkin, former Navy SEAL and CEO of Troops First Foundation, takes us on a heart-wrenching journey through military service, devastating loss, and his mission to transform veteran care.

After serving eight years in the Navy SEALs and decades in law enforcement, Frank watched his son Ryan follow a similar path of service. After 9/11, Ryan became a highly decorated SEAL medic who deployed four times to Iraq and Afghanistan. But something changed. Despite his outward strength, Ryan began struggling with sleep disturbances, anxiety, memory issues, and pain—symptoms attributed solely to PTSD and substance abuse. When he sought help, the system that promised to support him ultimately pushed him out.

The devastating truth emerged only after Ryan's suicide, when brain examination revealed severe microscopic damage uniquely related to blast exposure—damage that went completely undiagnosed despite extensive testing at premier military facilities. This revelation shattered the narrative around Ryan's struggles and exposed a critical gap in how we understand combat-related injuries. Contrary to common belief, research now shows that military personnel in training environments—particularly instructors repeatedly exposed to smaller blasts—may sustain more cumulative brain damage than those experiencing fewer large explosions in combat.

Through Troops First Foundation and the Warrior Call initiative, Frank now fights to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies. Their approach is elegantly simple yet profoundly effective: defeat isolation by encouraging veterans to connect with their "tribe." That single phone call or visit can pull someone back from the edge, reminding them they aren't alone and reconnecting them to community and hope.

Frank's advocacy extends beyond individual connections to systemic change, pushing for improved information sharing between military and VA healthcare systems, increased research funding, and a fundamental shift in how we view these invisible wounds—not as signs of being "broken," but as legitimate combat injuries deserving proper diagnosis and treatment.

Take action today. Visit warriorcall.org to learn how you can help defeat veteran isolation through the simple act of connection. As Frank reminds us, these veterans aren't damaged goods—they're hurt, and they deserve our help to heal.

Frank tells his story in this short video. Share it with a Veteran you know.

Step into the living legacy of the United States Marine Corps through the eyes of Colonel Gentry, Director of the National Museum of the Marine Corps. What began as two modest facilities has transformed into an architectural marvel purposefully designed to evoke the iconic Iwo Jima flag raising - from its angled mast mirroring the famous flagpole to its floor transitioning from sea to shore, representing the Marines' amphibious heritage.

The museum's mission extends beyond preservation. It honors veterans' selfless service, revitalizes the spirits of active-duty personnel, inspires future generations, and bridges the crucial civil-military gap for civilian visitors. This isn't a static collection of artifacts but a dynamic storytelling experience spanning 250 years of Marine Corps evolution from the Continental Marines through Afghanistan and Iraq.

What truly distinguishes this museum is its commitment to immersive experiences. Walk through Marines attacking across Belleau Wood's wheat field, feel the bitter cold of Korea's Chosin Reservoir, or witness the conditions at Vietnam's Hill 881 South. Marvel at cast figures molded from actual Marines with realistic battle details, and see the actual flag from Rosenthal's iconic Iwo Jima photograph on daily display. Every element carries meaning, creating a powerful connection between visitors and Marine Corps history.

As the Corps celebrates its 250th anniversary, exciting new developments are underway, including galleries highlighting the Medal of Honor, interwar period innovations, and unique collection pieces. With free admission and parking just off I-95 in Triangle, Virginia, there's no reason to miss this national treasure. Whether you're a Marine veteran seeking reconnection, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about this storied military branch, the National Museum of the Marine Corps offers an unforgettable journey through America's military heritage. Visit usmcmuseum.com today to plan your visit and discover upcoming events!

Paul Morando, Chief Curator at the National Museum of the United States Army, unveils the fascinating story behind the museum's newest exhibition, "Call to Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War." This meticulously crafted exhibit represents a remarkable four-year journey, bringing together nearly 180 Revolutionary War artifacts from 35 different institutions and collectors across multiple countries.

What sets this exhibition apart is its deeply personal approach to history. Rather than displaying anonymous military equipment, Morando's team specifically sought artifacts with verified connections to individual soldiers. "We know who carried that musket. We know who wore the uniform," Morando explains, highlighting how this connection transforms ordinary objects into powerful storytelling vessels that bridge the 250-year gap between visitors and those who fought for American independence.

The exhibition's centerpiece – George Washington's famous green-hilted sword, which appears in numerous historical portraits – is on temporary loan from the Smithsonian and will return in December 2025. This rare opportunity to see Washington's preferred battle sword exemplifies the exhibition's limited-time treasures that history enthusiasts should prioritize viewing before certain artifacts return to their home institutions.

Beyond the Revolutionary War exhibit, Morando offers insights into the museum's future plans, including a traveling exhibition on Japanese-American Nisei soldiers launching in 2026 and a special exhibit commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11. When asked about artificial intelligence's potential impact on museum curation, Morando emphasizes the irreplaceable human element in historical storytelling: "I think you have to do the proper research, bring in all different perspectives and ideas... I think it's disingenuous [to replace that with AI]."

The National Museum of the United States Army, with its stunning architecture and 65,000 square feet of exhibition space, offers free admission and parking. Open daily from 0900 to 1700, the museum provides not just exhibits but also free programming, including lectures, book talks, and online resources. Whether you're a military history buff or simply curious about America's revolutionary beginnings, this exhibition offers a remarkable window into the experiences of those who fought for the nation's founding ideals. Visit thenmusa.org to plan your trip and discover the soldiers' stories behind America's fight for independence.

The heroism of Vietnam War helicopter pilots rarely receives the spotlight it deserves, but Colonel Douglas Moore's story stands as a testament to extraordinary courage under fire. With over 1,874 combat missions flown and 2,782 wounded soldiers evacuated during his two tours in Vietnam, Moore's experiences reveal the life-and-death stakes faced by Dustoff pilots daily.

Moore's journey began when he transitioned from fixed-wing aircraft to helicopters as the Vietnam conflict escalated in 1964. As a Medical Service Corps officer, his sole mission became rescuing wounded soldiers from active combat zones—a dangerous task that routinely placed him in the crosshairs of enemy fire. The term "Dustoff" itself became their permanent call sign, ensuring wounded soldiers could always reach medical evacuation regardless of changing military call signs and frequencies.

The podcast captures several breathtaking moments from Moore's career, including the mission that earned him the Distinguished Service Cross. Despite taking heavy enemy fire that sent a bullet through his thumb and another striking his flight helmet between his eyes, Moore maintained enough control of his damaged helicopter for his co-pilot to safely evacuate them and their wounded passengers. Perhaps most remarkable was his special mission to retrieve three American POWs from North Vietnamese forces near the Cambodian border - an operation that remained classified for years.

Moore's reflections offer profound insights into military service: "If there was any such thing as having a good job in combat, I had one." His impact extends far beyond the individuals he rescued, creating generational ripples as those saved went on to build families and futures. For listeners interested in military history, combat medicine, or stories of exceptional courage, Colonel Moore's firsthand account provides a rare glimpse into one of warfare's most dangerous yet life-affirming roles.

Discover the full story in Colonel Moore's memoir "A Bullet Through the Helmet: A Vietnam Dustoff Pilot's Memoir," with proceeds benefiting the Huey Museum in Peru, Indiana - preserving the legacy of these remarkable aircraft and the brave pilots who flew them.

Archaeology might conjure images of dusty excavations and Indiana Jones adventures, but for veterans seeking meaningful employment transitions, it's becoming an unexpected bridge to civilian careers. In this eye-opening conversation, host Chef Larry welcomes Caroline and Gabi from the Veterans Curation Program in Alexandria, Virginia, revealing a groundbreaking initiative that's transforming lives through the preservation of archaeological treasures.

The Veterans Curation Program offers a refreshingly practical solution to two significant challenges: veterans seeking transferable workplace skills and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers needing specialized processing of archaeological collections. This five-month paid employment program (not an internship or fellowship) teaches veterans valuable skills through hands-on work with historical artifacts and documents. From database management to photography, careful preservation to digital scanning, participants emerge with a versatile professional toolkit applicable across numerous industries.

What truly distinguishes this program is its comprehensive career development component. After receiving archaeological training, veterans spend dedicated work hours building resumes, preparing for interviews, networking with potential employers, and connecting with veteran service organizations. As Gabi, a Marine Corps veteran turned Archives Lab Manager, shares her journey from military service to discovering an unexpected career path, listeners witness the profound impact of finding purpose through preservation work.

Caroline, a program archaeologist, dispels Hollywood myths about the field while highlighting how the methodical, detail-oriented nature of curation work provides veterans with skills that transfer seamlessly to numerous professional settings. Whether participants ultimately pursue careers in museums, information technology, human resources, or countless other fields, the program serves as that crucial bridge between military service and civilian success.

Are you a post-9/11 veteran seeking your next mission? Do you know someone struggling to find their footing after military service? The Veterans Curation Program is accepting applications year-round at veteranscurationprogram.org, with particular interest in expanding their applicant pool. Join the program's upcoming ice cream social on July 25th to explore the Alexandria lab, meet staff and current participants, and perhaps discover an unexpected path forward in your post-service career journey.

When American muscle meets military gratitude, something special happens. The sixth annual Vets for Willing Warriors Corvette Show returns to the breathtaking 37-acre Warrior Retreat at Bull Run on July 19th, creating a unique convergence of automotive passion and veteran support.

Picture this: rows of gleaming Corvettes spanning seven decades of American innovation, from pristine 1953 classics to the brand-new 2025 electric model making its debut. Last year drew around 240 vehicles, and this year promises an even more impressive turnout. While "Vettes" appears in the name, the show welcomes all classic and antique cars—anything with four wheels and a story to tell.

The day unfolds with surprising energy as dedicated owners arrive before dawn, sometimes as early as 6 AM, to secure prime spots. By 10 AM, the grounds open to the public at no charge, with live classic rock from Radio NV setting the perfect soundtrack. The Knights of Columbus fire up their grills, serving hundreds of visitors hamburgers and hot dogs on a donation basis—community spirit in action.

What makes this event truly special is its setting and purpose. In between admiring meticulously restored vehicles, visitors can tour the retreat houses where wounded warriors and their families find respite. You'll meet Chuck Berge, a Corvette judge since 1988 who travels the country evaluating America's sports car, and potentially Wayne Carini from TV's "Chasing Classic Cars," who returns to select his Celebrity Award winner.

The show transforms into a village of automotive communities as approximately eight different Corvette clubs arrive in impressive convoys, some bringing 40+ vehicles. Awards range from the traditional Founders Award and Veterans' Choice to the People's Choice (determined by beads placed on your favorite car and the new Bell Award for the most unique license plate.

Behind the scenes, nearly 100 volunteers orchestrate this celebration with military precision, creating an experience that draws participants from as far as Buffalo, New York. The event introduces many first-time visitors to the mission of Willing Warriors through the universal language of automotive appreciation.

Ready to participate? Register your vehicle at willingwarriors.org before July 1st for the early bird $20 fee. Sponsors at all levels are welcomed and recognized. Mark July 19th on your calendar (rain date August 9th) and join us for what many participants call their favorite show of the year—where horsepower meets heart in support of our nation's heroes.