In this insightful episode, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Army veteran and financial planner Chris Pollard for an engaging conversation about military service, career transitions, and building financial security after the uniform comes off.

Chris Pollard shares his journey from high school Army reserves, through West Point and active duty deployments, to his current career in personal financial planning. You'll hear candid stories about leadership, the challenges of military and civilian life, and why purpose matters when planning your next chapter.

The discussion dives into practical financial topics, including:

• The unique financial planning needs of veterans and business owners

• How to approach home ownership, investment, and legacy decisions

• The importance of estate tools like wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations

• Educating on VA benefits and why every veteran should revisit their eligibility

• The role of accountability and enjoying the wealth you build

Both Ed Parcaut and Chris Pollard share personal anecdotes, actionable strategies, and heartfelt advice for veterans aiming to secure a meaningful and financially stable future. You'll also get recommendations on helpful resources, including Chris Pollard's new workbook and Ed Parcaut's book for homeownership and financial freedom.

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a vet navigating civilian life, or anyone interested in smart money moves and legacy planning, this episode is packed with relatable wisdom—plus a bit of humor and frank talk about life's transitions.

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

For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

#HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #ChrisPollard #Veterans #MilitaryService #Army #WestPoint #FinancialPlanning #MBA #LifeAfterMilitary #VeteranBenefits #HomeOwnership #FinancialFreedom #EstatePlanning #RetirementPlanning #Mindset #Legacy #PersonalFinance #MilitaryTransition #Podcast

In this thought-provoking episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with veteran and author Jeff Kildow for an engaging conversation about service, history, and storytelling. Jeff Kildow shares his journey from serving as a missile maintenance technician in the United States Air Force during the 1960s to a long career in aerospace engineering and ultimately becoming an author of alternative history novels about World War II and beyond.

Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of military life, reflections on the evolution of technology in warfare, and insightful discussions about the importance of preserving history through literature. Jeff Kildow reveals what inspires his writing, the complexities of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, and the value of capturing untold stories for future generations.

Whether you're passionate about military history, intrigued by alternative history fiction, or curious about the writing process from a veteran's perspective, this episode offers personal stories, practical advice, and a fresh look at the relationship between our past and present.

Connect with Jeff Kildow to learn more about his work, and tune in for a conversation that blends service, sacrifice, creativity, and a deep respect for the lessons of history.

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

For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

#HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #JeffKildow #VeteranStories #AirForceVeteran #MilitaryHistory #WWIIFiction #AlternativeHistory #VietnamWar #AerospaceEngineer #MilitaryThriller #BooksToRead #VeteranAuthor #HistoryMatters #WritingCommunity #LockheedMartin #Skylab #MilitaryService #HistoricalFiction #PodcastInterview

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

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

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

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

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

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