In this episode of Untold Valor, Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos shares her powerful journey from Army medic to nationally recognized advocate for women veterans impacted by military sexual trauma. She discusses the challenges many veterans face after service, the evolution of support systems within the VA, and why peer-to-peer connection can be life-changing. Dr. Santos also opens up about spirituality, healing, and the importance of finding support instead of suffering in silence.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Personal Story: Dr. Santos’ journey
• Women Veterans: Advocacy and progress
• Military Trauma: Challenges after service
• Peer Support: Veterans helping veterans
• Mental Health: Healing and recovery
• Breaking Silence: Why conversations matter

0:00 – Intro

1:39 – Get to know Dr. Santos

5:04 – On the other side of the oath

6:53 – Creating a platform for women veterans

8:26 – The struggle to speak up

11:01 – The importance of peer-to-peer veteran support

12:52 – Dr. Santos’ encouragement to veterans

Dr. Cathy Bennett-Santos

Learn more about Dr. Santos HERE

Get a copy of My Desert Storm: https://www.amazon.com/-/he/Phillyvet/dp/B0DRMHW6R6

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this “Best of Season 3” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about mental health, transition, and rediscovering purpose after military service. Myra shares why veterans must advocate for themselves and seek support without shame. Darrin reflects on the lasting emotional weight of traumatic experiences as a young medic. And Kat opens up about the difficult transition of being medically retired from the Air Force and rebuilding her identity through service in a new way.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Self-advocacy after service
• PTSD, anxiety, and mental health management
• The pressure of trauma as a young medic
• Why veterans need connection and support
• Rebuilding purpose after medical retirement
• The culture shock of civilian life and school

0:00 - Intro

0:51 - Myra on advocating for yourself after service

4:16 - Darrin on trauma, pressure, and mental health

11:12 - Kat on medical retirement and rebuilding purpose

EPISODE LINKS

There Is Always Hope with Myra Fields-Rouse

No Problem Is Too Big: Finding The Courage To Seek Support featuring Darrin Henry

When One Door Closes: Strength In New Beginnings with Kat Kirkman

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

This “Best of Season 2” episode highlights powerful moments of recovery, resilience, and life-changing support systems. Michael shares how his difficult transition out of the military led him to a new purpose, helping fellow veterans find meaningful careers. Dr. Maio reflects on the “three Jens” who entered his life at critical moments and helped save it. And finally, Lena opens up about the mentors who recognized her struggles and guided her toward healing and growth.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Transition struggles after military service
• Finding purpose through career coaching
• The hidden cycle of depression and isolation
• Life-saving power of connection and intervention
• Mentorship, faith, and support systems

0:00 - Intro

1:16 - Michael Bate on career transition challenges

5:41 - Dr. Nick Maio’s “three Jens” story

11:55 - Lena Fowler on mentorship and PTSD

Featured Episodes:

Finding Your Path After the Military with Career Specialist Michael Bate

Holding Onto Hope with Dr. Nick Maio

Finding Strength in Community and Faith with Lena Fowler

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this special “Best of Season 2” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations centered on the challenges of transitioning out of the military, the importance of connection, and finding renewed purpose through service.

Kyle shares insights on the cultural shift veterans face when reintegrating into civilian life and the systemic gaps that make that transition difficult. Colonel Arthur Jenkins reflects on the power of peer-to-peer connection and why simply listening can be life-changing. Ryan opens up about how volunteering became a cornerstone of his post-military identity, helping him rebuild community and purpose.

These conversations highlight a common truth: no veteran has to navigate life after service alone- and connection can be the first step toward healing.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The cultural disconnect veterans face when leaving the military
• Why reintegration into civilian life is often more complex than expected
• The power of veteran-to-veteran connection and shared experiences
• How listening and validation can transform lives
• Volunteering as a pathway to purpose and personal growth

0:00 - Intro

0:53 - Kyle on reintegration challenges and cultural transition

5:06 - COL Arthur Jenkins on connection and listening

9:54 - Ryan on volunteering and finding purpose after service

Featured Episodes:

Post-Service Reintegration and Community Building with Kyle Hanlan

Stronger Together: Veteran Fellowship, Mentorship, and Advocacy with Colonel Arthur L. Jenkins, Jr.

Seeking Mental Health and Community Support with Ryan Allman

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode, we sit down with Lily Thomas, a Veterans Justice Outreach social worker at the Coatesville VA Medical Center, to explore how veterans can access support when facing legal, mental health, or substance use challenges. Lily shares how early intervention, treatment programs, and community partnerships are helping veterans rebuild stability and avoid deeper legal consequences. If you or someone you know has served and needs support, this conversation highlights practical pathways to get connected with the right resources and take the first step toward recovery.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• How the Veterans Justice Outreach Program helps justice-involved veterans get connected to treatment
• The Veterans Response Team and its role in supporting veterans in crisis
• What Veterans Treatment Court is and how it helps veterans address legal and mental health challenges
• The wide range of inpatient and outpatient VA services available for veterans
• Why reaching out to the VA can make a big difference for veterans

0:00 – Intro

1:06 – Lily’s Role at the VA

3:19 – Veterans Response Team

6:36 – Veterans Treatment Court

8:43 – Mental Health & Treatment Services

12:49 – Make The Phone Call

Lily Thomas

Learn more about Lily Thomas HERE

Episode Links:

VA Coatesville Health Care:

https://www.va.gov/coatesville-health-care/programs/first-responders-veterans-response-team/

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

This “Best of Season 1 – Part 2” episode highlights powerful moments from past conversations with veterans who shared their personal stories of service, resilience, and recovery. Jermaine reflects on the support he received from his Navy unit during a personal tragedy and how that experience shaped the way he helps others. Darcy shares her struggle balancing motherhood, military service, and mental health, while advocating for breaking the stigma around asking for help. Ricardo discusses the life-changing impact of military medical care as he navigated a multiple sclerosis diagnosis near the end of his career. Together, these stories highlight the strength veterans find in support, openness, and shared experience.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• The power of military camaraderie during personal hardship
• Balancing military service, motherhood, and mental health
• Breaking the stigma around asking for help
• Why open conversations about mental health matter
• The importance of medical support and benefits for veterans

0:00 - Intro

0:47 - Jermaine on Navy support during a personal tragedy

4:36 - Darcy on mental health struggles while serving

10:21 - Ricardo on military medical care and veteran health benefits

Featured Episodes:

Generations of Service – Dedication To The Navy with Jermaine Wilson:

https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12415352-ep-7-generations-of-service-dedication-to-the-navy-with-jermaine-wilson

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help – Ricardo Byrdsong’s Three Decades In The Navy:

https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12524787-ep-10-don-t-be-afraid-to-ask-for-help-ricardo-byrdsong-s-three-decades-in-the-navy

Battling Shame & Mental Health Stigmas with Darcy Rideout

https://untoldvalor.buzzsprout.com/1871691/episodes/12596523-ep-11-battling-shame-mental-health-stigmas-with-darcy-rideout

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this special “Best of Season 1” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about addiction recovery, breaking stigma, and the strength found in the veteran community. Roy shares his journey from alcoholism and homelessness to sobriety and serving others. Marley reflects on the military’s cultural shift around mental health and asking for help. Dr. John Taylor highlights the life-changing impact of veteran organizations and shared knowledge. These stories remind us that healing begins with connection, and no veteran has to struggle alone.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Overcoming the stigma of asking for help
• The role of VA programs in long-term healing
• The military culture shift around mental health
• Why veteran organizations are critical after service
• Helping others as the pathway to personal healing

0:00 - Intro

0:53 - Roy on stigma and barriers to seeking help

7:43 - Marley on military culture shift and mental health

11:29 - Dr. John Taylor on veteran organizations

Featured Episodes:

Military or Jail? Roy Remone’s Story of Finding Purpose After Trauma

Beyond Battlefield: Marley Ganthier’s Advice When Returning To Civilian Life:

The Power of Support: Why Veterans Must Share Their Stories with Dr. John Taylor

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q

In this episode, Kevin (KC) Drayton shares a powerful story of service, faith, and lifelong purpose. From growing up in North Philadelphia to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, KC shares how early responsibility, family influence, and personal conviction guided his path. He discusses the realities of military service, the lasting impact of the Beirut bombing, and why service didn’t end when his military time did.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Why service became a multigenerational calling in KC’s family
• Early leadership lessons learned in the Marine Corps
• How faith, family, and country shaped KC’s major life decisions
• Transitioning from military service to lifelong community service
• Why staying active, hopeful, and engaged matters after service

0:00 – Intro

1:26 – Getting to know KC

6:49 – Transitioning out of the military

10:05 – Community outreach & Compeer Corps

12:30 – KC’s message to veterans

Kevin Drayton

Learn more about Kevin HERE

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q