<![CDATA[Shoulder to Shoulder]]>
grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/s/shoulder-to-shoulder-untold-storiesSubstackWed, 17 Jun 2026 05:54:09 GMThttps://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/2220590/s/111323.rssWill SelberBridging the civ-mil gap by telling stories from the War on Terror. episodicWill Selbergrumpycombatveteran@substack.comYes<![CDATA[Teri and Patrick Caserta on The Brandon Act]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran is honored to share Teri and Patrick Caserta’s story of their remarkable son, Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta.

https://thebrandonact.org/

https://brandoncasertafoundation.org/

https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/caserta-brandon-act-awareness-push-naval-station-norfolk-suicides-jan-6-2024



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/teri-and-patrick-caserta-on-the-brandonsubstack:post:164274356Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3306<![CDATA[Trump's Foreign Policy After 100 Days]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran welcomes back the GOAT, Bill Roggio. The dynamic duo discusses Ukraine, SECDEF Hegseth, Iran, and, as always, the state of the Long War.

Grumpy Combat Veteran is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/trumps-foreign-policy-after-100-dayssubstack:post:164435121Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:00:00 GMTWill Selber and Bill RoggioNo3080<![CDATA[Military Families in Today's DoD]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran 6 is joined by Sara Davidson & Sara Pflugradt. The dynamic trio discusses the problems affecting military families.

https://www.o2x.com/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/military-families-in-todays-dodsubstack:post:163551851Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3497<![CDATA[Ambassador Edelman on Turkey]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran welcomes Ambassador Eric Edelman to the show. The two The Bulwark contributors discuss Turkey, Syria, Israel, Ukraine, and whole lot more.

Grumpy Combat Veteran is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/ambassador-edelman-on-turkeysubstack:post:161549584Thu, 17 Apr 2025 18:01:01 GMTWill SelberNo2394<![CDATA[A Zebra Without Stripes (take 2)]]>***Sorry about the misfire earlier. I loaded the wrong video. It’s been a long week without my faithful companion, Bucky Boy. :( ***

Holly Berkley Fletcher and Grumpy Combat Veteran discuss their lives in the intelligence community, writing, and Ukraine’s bleak future.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-zebra-without-stripes-take-2substack:post:161101396Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:00:53 GMTWill SelberNo2768<![CDATA[Possible Domestic Terror Attack in Lancaster ]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran speaks with his good friend Ahmadullah, who survived a likely domestic terror attack in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

https://abc13.com/post/coworkers-find-man-dead-inside-office-building-harwin-drive-southwest-houston-police-say/16090448/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/possible-domestic-terror-attack-insubstack:post:160258175Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:03:44 GMTWill SelberNo1113<![CDATA[Lynne O'Donnell on Haqqani]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran talks with Lynne O’Donnell of Project Taliban. The dynamic duo discusses the latest from Afghanistan.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/lynne-odonnell-on-haqqanisubstack:post:159930983Thu, 27 Mar 2025 19:00:00 GMTWill Selber and Lynne O'DonnellNo2591<![CDATA[The Afghan Female Tactical Platoons]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran is joined by his old Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, James. The dynamic duo speaks with Rebekah Edmondson of NXT Mission, who also leads our Moral Injury Support Group, which provides free monthly support to active-duty servicemembers and veterans.

https://www.nxtmission.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/the-afghan-female-tactical-platoonssubstack:post:158881858Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo2594<![CDATA[Dr. Selber Takes Control]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran welcomes Katherine Selber, a full professor at Texas State University. The dynamic duo discusses GCV’s many deployments and their thoughts on veterans’ issues.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/dr-selber-takes-controlsubstack:post:158263731Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:10:54 GMTWill Selber and Katherine SelberNo3178<![CDATA[Service Unplugged]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran welcomes Natalie Stosberg & Sara Davidson to the show. The trio discuss their time in service, their new show (Service Unplugged), and the journey forward.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/service-unplugged-acasubstack:post:156585150Thu, 06 Feb 2025 07:32:22 GMTWill Selber and Natalie StosbergNo1401<![CDATA[A Conversation with a Gold Star Wife]]>GCV sits down with his Mom’s colleague, Monteigne Long of Texas A&M University (Whoop!). The two discuss grief, purpose, and the journey forward for all veterans.

Monteigne Long works for Texas A&M University System’s Office of Veteran and Military services.

Apple Podcast

Spotify

Youtube



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-conversation-with-a-gold-star-wifesubstack:post:156009461Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo2599<![CDATA[Rooftop Leader Speaks the Truth]]>Grumpy Combat Veteran + Friends is thrilled to publish this incredible conversation between Will Selber and Scott Mann. Scott discusses his new book, Nobody is Coming to Save You and the Heroes Journey.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/rooftop-leader-speaks-the-truthsubstack:post:155098070Tue, 21 Jan 2025 13:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo290222full<![CDATA[Bill Kristol on Afghanistan, Terrorism, and the Future of the Democratic Party]]>Bill Kristol, the The Bulwark’s editor at large, joins Grumpy Combat Veteran + Friends.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/bill-kristol-on-afghanistan-terrorismsubstack:post:154499323Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo1704<![CDATA[Bonus Episode: Decision 2024]]>(Editor’s Note: We apologize (again) for another double tap. We’re training some new interns on this process. Please show us a little grace)

In this bonus episode, Kate K returns from her trip abroad to discuss the upcoming election with GCV and why both of them support VP Harris.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/bonus-episode-decision-2024substack:post:151210116Tue, 05 Nov 2024 14:16:56 GMTWill SelberNo2797<![CDATA[The Chamberlain Network ]]>In the compelling finale of Season 1, Kate engages with Chris Purdy and Crystal Ellington from The Chamberlain Network, an innovative organization dedicated to empowering veterans to champion democratic values at local, state, and national levels. Together, they explore Chris and Crystal’s military backgrounds, the vital role of civic engagement for veterans transitioning to civilian life, and effective strategies for navigating bipartisanship in today's polarized political climate. This compelling discussion beautifully encapsulates the mission of the show, which aims to amplify veterans’ voices and support their journeys towards healing loudly.  

For more information on The Chamberlain Network and ways to get involved, visit their website at

https://www.chamberlainnetwork.us

.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/the-chamberlain-networksubstack:post:150096966Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K.No3474<![CDATA[A Social Worker's Story]]>Episode 25 holds a special place in our hearts as we welcome Jennifer Lawrence, a dedicated clinical social worker who worked closely with Kate to support the mental health needs of the Afghanistan volunteer community. In this episode, Jennifer shares her insights on building trust within the veteran community, her experiences with Afghanistan volunteers, and the crucial need to recognize and address the effects of moral injury. Jennifer’s genuine passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others shines through, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-social-workers-storysubstack:post:149881940Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K.No3618<![CDATA[A West Point Graduate's Story]]>In episode 22, we sit down with Bobby Miner, a West Point graduate who, as he puts it, is an "occupational dilettante." Bobby reflects on realizing his childhood dream of attending West Point and shares his experiences leading and building trust with his unit during his deployment in Iraq. He also delves into the challenges of navigating cultural differences while serving overseas and explores how art and writing can play a crucial role in the healing process after military service.

https://www.jjournal.org/post/the-hammer



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-west-point-graduates-storysubstack:post:149685926Tue, 01 Oct 2024 22:12:26 GMTWill SelberNo3322<![CDATA[From Tunnel Rat to Author]]>We were deeply honored to have Vietnam veteran Steve Williams join us for episode 24. In this compelling hour, Steve shares his harrowing experiences as a tunnel rat in Vietnam, the difficult return home to a country that openly opposed the war, and his journey through PTSD, including the challenges of accepting that diagnosis. He also discusses how his faith has helped him come to terms with his past and inspired him to support others on similar paths.

Steve’s book, “Nine Pairs of Boots in Vietnam,” can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com/Nine-Pairs-Boo...

And you can learn more about Steve’s work with Pointman International Ministries here: https://www.pmim.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/from-tunnel-rat-to-authorsubstack:post:149679709Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:54:28 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo5101<![CDATA[Advising a Surrender in Afghanistan (S2S #23 feat. Chris Izant)]]>In episode 23, we sit down with Chris Izant, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Afghanistan. Chris shares his experiences with the Afghan Border Police, his evolving views on the military after his deployment, and his insights into the Taliban as a formidable and strategic adversary. He also opens up about how writing became a crucial part of his healing process, helping him navigate and reconcile his combat experiences with his civilian life.

Chris’ book can be purchased here: https://www.amazon.com/Final-Engagement-Marines-Mission-Afghanistan/dp/1635768721



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/advising-a-surrender-in-afghanistansubstack:post:149345705Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:31:10 GMTKate K.No3787<![CDATA[From Norway to Kabul]]>In episode 21, Will welcomes Stephan Jensen, the Country Director for Ukraine, at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. They delve into the intricate landscape of Afghan politics and military cooperation, explore the profound moral injuries experienced by foreign veterans of the Afghan conflict, and examine the severe gender apartheid affecting Afghan women and girls. Additionally, they discuss the broader global repercussions of these issues, including their influence on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

@StephanAJensen



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/from-norway-to-kabul-98esubstack:post:148698957Tue, 10 Sep 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill Selber and Kate K.No3105<![CDATA[The Life of a Combat Interpreter]]>In Episode 20, we delve into the remarkable story of Nasirullah “John” Safi, an Afghan combat interpreter who began his courageous work at just 15 years old.  Join us as Nasirullah recounts his most perilous missions, the relentless threats from the Taliban, and the formidable challenges he encountered while navigating the U.S. immigration system.

www.combatinterpreter.com

Get The Terp up Here

Indispensable: Tale of a Military Interpreter, A War Lived Through Two Languages



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/the-life-of-a-combat-interpretersubstack:post:148433705Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3470<![CDATA[Civilian Casualties ]]>Episode 19 boasts a fascinating conversation between co-host Will, a combat veteran, and Joanna Naples-Mitchell, a human rights attorney working with families harmed by U.S. foreign military actions. Over the hour, we discuss the Department of Defense’s budget for making apology payments to such families (and how it largely goes unused); the challenges in choosing which families to represent and the inevitable compassion fatigue in such work; and the benefits to engaging non-profit organizations in military strategies as a way to mitigate civilian harm. 



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/civilian-casualtiessubstack:post:148157137Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3698<![CDATA[Service Unplugged]]>In episode 18, we are graced by the lovely Sara Davidson, retired USAF and current GCV+F teammate.  She talks about her motivations for joining the military, the challenges in building a strong team identity and culture, lessons learned from her deployment to Iraq, and her experience with transitioning out of the military.  We were so grateful for the opportunity to learn more about one of our favorite team members AND to allow Sara to set the stage for her own upcoming podcast, Service Unplugged.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/service-unpluggedsubstack:post:147911466Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:57:08 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3739<![CDATA[After the Fall]]>In this poignant episode, we mark the anniversary of Kabul's fall by exploring Kate and Will's extraordinary efforts to aid Afghans in the aftermath. Tune in to hear their personal stories, the challenges they faced, and the impact of their work on those in need. Join us for a powerful discussion on resilience, moral injury, and the powerful friendships we’ve formed. 

www.gcvfriends.com



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/after-the-fallsubstack:post:147647434Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3925<![CDATA[What is Moral Injury?]]>Episode 16 is a bit more academic, as Kate and Dr. Rev. Michael Yandell discuss the definition of moral injury and whether it best belongs under a clinical or humanities model. Coming into the conversation with two different perspectives, we both left with the shared understanding that those dealing with moral injury deserve to have their harm validated and would best be served by a joint treatment method that addresses both the internal moral harm and the resulting symptoms. 

Moral Injury Support Group

War and Negative Revelation: A Theoethical Reflection on Moral Injury

Shay Moral Injury Center

Chemical Weapons in Iraq



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/what-is-moral-injurysubstack:post:147383510Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K.No3859<![CDATA[Afghanistan's Leading Voice]]>Episode 15 features Bilal Sarwary, a leading Afghan journalist. We delve into Afghanistan's military and political failures that contributed to the Taliban's rapid takeover, explore how U.S. policies supported their return, and examine the implications of their current status for the international community. Bilal’s insights are invaluable, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in Afghanistan's future.

www.gcvfriends.com

gcv.friends@gmail.com

@bsarwary on X



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/afghanistans-leading-voicesubstack:post:147146777Tue, 30 Jul 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3586<![CDATA[Green Beret Turned Humanitarian]]>Thomas Kasza is a Green Beret turned humanitarian, innovator, and advocate for the oppressed. Prompted by the Taliban resurgence in August 2021, he founded the 1208 Foundation, an NGO that provides immigration assistance and life-saving aid for persecuted Afghan partners. This episode delves into an incredible Green Beret’s career. Even after he separated from the military, Thomas continues serving Afghanistan and caring for his allies.

https://1208foundation.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/green-beret-turned-humanitariansubstack:post:146944728Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3222<![CDATA[Generation Jihad Makes Its Debut]]>Bill Roggio is one of our personal favorites over here at GCV+F.  In this episode, we learn more about Bill’s history covering military affairs despite his lack of formal journalism training; the moments he knew that his work had a true impact, including multiple invitations to embed with military units; and his thoughts on the current terrorism landscape, including the mounting threat posed by Islamic terrorism.

Bill is a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracy and currently serves as the editor of the Long War Journal, which you can check out here.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/generation-jihad-makes-its-debutsubstack:post:146417547Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3811<![CDATA[A Relentless Warrior for Veterans]]>Episode 12 with Dr. Tia Corbin-Myers showcases the many challenges veterans face after leaving service.  With candor and grace, she discusses the challenges in finding employment post-service; her decision to spend four years as a contractor in Afghanistan to support her young family; and her ongoing efforts to launch a housing/reentry program for homeless veterans.  

https://www.thepeacecenterdmv.com

gcv.friends@gmail.com



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-relentless-warrior-for-veteranssubstack:post:146189058Tue, 02 Jul 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3622<![CDATA[Operation Recovery ]]>In episode 11, we sit down with Ian Patterson from Operation Recovery to discuss the fall of Kabul, subsequent evacuation work, and the mental toll it took on volunteers. Ian also introduces us to the Heroes Wellness Collective, a central collection of mental health resources for veterans with the goal of offering rapid and meaningful responses to requests for support.  

You can learn more about Operation Recovery here: https://operationrecovery.org

 And about the Heroes Wellness Collective here: https://operationrecovery.org/health-wellness-initiative/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/operation-recoverysubstack:post:145956293Tue, 25 Jun 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3913<![CDATA[Heal Loudly]]>We adored having guest Beth Bailey on the podcast, partly because her work with The Afghanistan Project Podcast inspired Kate and Will to host Shoulder to Shoulder. In episode 10, we discuss Beth’s background and experience with Afghanistan, the healing powers of storytelling, and the notion of ‘healing loudly’ in a way that offers permission to others to do the same.

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/beth-bailey/

https://www.youtube.com/@theafghanistanprojectpodcast

@BWBailey85



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/heal-loudlysubstack:post:145745405Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3413<![CDATA[Global Friends of Afghanistan]]>It’s episode 9, and Will Selber is riding solo (G*d, help us all). Luckily, he was joined by some amazing guests—Major Jason Howk (retired) and Colonel John Agoglia (retired) - to chat about their work planning combat operations in Afghanistan; their efforts to rebuild the country in partnership with the United Nations; the impact of the Donn and Doha Agreements; and the critical need for counterinsurgency training. We also get to hear about their work with Global Friends of Afghanistan, a nonprofit focusing on development in Afghanistan.

https://www.globalfriendsofafghanistan.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/global-friends-of-afghanistansubstack:post:145522479Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3527<![CDATA[An Airman's Resilience]]>In episode 8, we are joined by the epitome of a leader: Colonel Matthew Norton, Will’s former commanding officer. Colonel Matthew Norton has accomplished many things in life—perhaps none more important than offering his Airmen the support they need to seek meaningful mental health support, both during and after service. Without leaders like him, programs like the Airmen Resiliency Teams wouldn’t thrive—and veterans like Will might not be here.

With gratitude, and until next time.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/a-view-from-the-topsubstack:post:145238460Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:00:00 GMTKate K. and Will SelberNo3546<![CDATA[Four Vastly Different Deployments]]>In episode 7, we hear from retired Master Sergeant James Meador about the need for allyship in working with Afghans; the impossibility of deploying in place and trying to balance the competing demands of combat and family life; and the moral injury he experienced in watching the various ways we have betrayed our Afghan allies. James offers our listeners a unique opportunity to truly get into the mind of a veteran serving in the War on Terror - the perfect way to honor their service on this Memorial Day.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/four-vastly-different-deploymentssubstack:post:144930696Tue, 28 May 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo4175<![CDATA[Give An Hour]]>Episode 6 is particularly close to Kate’s heart, as Dr. Trina Clayeux and her colleagues at Give an Hour were one of the only resilience resources available to Afghanistan volunteers during the height of their work. This week, we hear about Give an Hour’s current programming (particularly for veterans); the importance of peer support in addressing resilience needs; and the critical need to adapt flexible treatment models that can respond to each individual community. If you’re as encouraged by this conversation as we were, please feel free to offer your support to Give an Hour here:

https://giveanhour.org/give/"



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/give-an-hoursubstack:post:144814561Tue, 21 May 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3967<![CDATA[Episode 5: A Gold Star Mother's Journey]]>Danny Johnson designed a makeshift climbing wall during his deployment. He fell in love with his wife quickly and deeply. He didn’t want his mother to worry. And on October 5, 2010, Senior airman Daniel J. Johnson was killed in action in Afghanistan. In the 14 years since his passing, his mother Holly has found her own mission: keeping her son’s memory alive. In episode 5, we hear about Holly’s understanding of her son’s military service; the exact moment she learned that he’d been killed; and the precious work she’s undertaken since. It’s an episode marked by a mother’s love, and a very real look at the sacrifices our military families make.

shouldertoshoulder2024@gmail.com

https://theheroesjourney.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/episode-5-a-gold-star-mothers-journeysubstack:post:144566358Tue, 14 May 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo4482<![CDATA[Episode 4: The Life of a Combat Interpreter]]>This episode is dedicated to SrA Jonathan Yelner. KIA 29 April 2008. Tag Ab District, Kapisa Province, Afghanistan. Kapisa & Parwan Provincial Reconstruction Team, Team Southern Kapisa, FB Kutchbock. Gone But Not Forgotten.

This episode with Ritchie is close to our hearts, as he served as Will’s combat interpreter many years ago. He describes his military service: the IED incident that took both his legs, the stunning moment he was evicted from a U.S. military base following his injuries, and his subsequent journey to the U.S. Ritchie’s story is marked by courage and gratitude and is truly worthy of a listen.

shouldertoshoulder2024@gmail.com

https://giveanhour.org/



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/episode-4-the-life-of-a-combat-interpretersubstack:post:144374140Tue, 07 May 2024 11:00:00 GMTWill SelberNo3714<![CDATA[Ep 3 - Saving Ahmadullah]]>In this episode, Will shares the story of successfully getting one of his interpreters, Ahmadullah, out of Afghanistan/Pakistan and into the United States. The process involved writing a letter of recommendation for Ahmadullah’s Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) application, navigating bureaucratic challenges, and raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign. With the support of the Bulwark family and other volunteers, they were able to secure a safe house in Pakistan. The episode highlights the difficulties and anxieties involved in the evacuation and resettlement process, as well as the ongoing trauma experienced by veterans. Despite the challenges, the episode emphasizes the importance of providing support and assistance to Afghan allies who risked their lives to help the United States.

Here is the link to The Bulwark story on this event.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/ep-3-saving-ahmadullahsubstack:post:143950260Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:20:00 GMTWill SelberNo2002<![CDATA[Episode 2 - Josh Owen]]>In this episode, Kate Kovarovic and Will Selber are joined by Josh Owen, a former intelligence analyst with the Air Force and CEO of Reinaert LLC. They discuss moral injury and its impact on veterans. Josh shares his military experiences, including a humorous story about his first helicopter ride. They also delve into the emotions and frustrations surrounding the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan and the betrayal felt by veterans and the Afghan people. The conversation delves into the moral injury experienced by both veterans and civilians involved in the Afghanistan withdrawal. The speakers discuss the impact of the withdrawal on individuals and their families, the lack of support from the government, and the feeling of betrayal. They highlight the importance of integrity and honor in the military and express concern about the erosion of trust in the US military. The conversation also touches on the coordination with the Taliban during the withdrawal and the sense of betrayal it caused. The conversation explores the concept of moral injury in the veteran community and its profound impact on individuals' mental health and well-being. The guests discuss their personal experiences and the challenges they faced in dealing with moral injury. They highlight the need for accountability and learning from past mistakes to prevent repeating them in the future. The conversation also touches on the effects of moral injury on relationships and the importance of seeking help and support. Overall, the guests emphasize the significance of understanding and addressing moral injury in the veteran community.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/episode-2-josh-owensubstack:post:143788087Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:30:00 GMTWill Selber and Kate KNo3683<![CDATA[Shoulder to Shoulder: Intro and Episode 1 ]]>The wait is over - the inaugural episode of Shoulder to Shoulder is here!

Did we encounter some technical difficulties? Absolutely. Did some awkward pauses find their way into the conversation? 100%. And did Kate get schooled on the relationships between U.S. and Afghan military branches? She sure did!

The learning curve is real, folks.

But we were exceptionally fortunate to be joined in this episode by LTG Sami Sadat, chairman of the Afghanistan United Front, and Brigadier General Khoshal Sadat, who spent 17 years in the Afghan Special Forces. Together, we discussed the nature of U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan; reasons why Afghanistan's security infrastructure has failed; and why future U.S. support is critical in defeating the Taliban.

It's certainly worth a listen, bumps be damned.

Until next time.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit grumpycombatveteran.substack.com]]>https://grumpycombatveteran.substack.com/p/shoulder-to-shoulder-intro-and-episodesubstack:post:143624047Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:30:00 GMTWill Selber and Kate K.No3884