DVNF Mission Possible Podcast
DVNF Mission Possible Podcast
Podcast Description
A community-centric platform designed by the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) to offer support, engagement, and resources to veterans, along with first responders and their families. A space where life’s challenges are openly discussed, and strategies for overcoming them are shared. Join Dr. Martin Rossman, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and a special guest for an hour of discussion each month.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers themes like mental health, resilience, and effective strategies for overcoming life's challenges after military service. Notable episodes include discussions on PTSD treatments, the importance of mental wellness, transitioning from military to civilian life, and addressing the unique struggles veterans face during this process. Specific topics explored include the impact of traumatic experiences, personal identity challenges, and suicide prevention efforts.
A community-centric platform designed by the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) to offer support, engagement, and resources to veterans, along with first responders and their families. A space where life’s challenges are openly discussed, and strategies for overcoming them are shared. Join Dr. Martin Rossman, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and a special guest for an hour of discussion each month.
What can horses teach us about trust, connection, and finding purpose after military service? In this episode of Operation Mission Possible, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret.) and CEO of Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF), speaks with Dr. Michelle Ruehl, Colonel, USAF (Ret.), and Executive Director at StableStrides.
Michelle shares how her 21-year Air Force career took her around the world as a pilot, educator, and leader, and how her longtime connection to therapeutic horsemanship eventually led her to a new mission at Stable Strides.
Recorded from the barn on July 3rd alongside StableStrides staff, volunteers, military family members, and therapy horses, the episode offers a firsthand look at the organization’s work. Michelle explains how StableStrides provides adaptive riding, equine-assisted services, life coaching, internships, and other programs for veterans, military families, first responders, and people with disabilities.
The conversation also explores the transition from military service into civilian life, the importance of rebuilding purpose and community, the lasting effects of loss and moral injury, and the unique ways horses can help people recognize their own emotions, behaviors, and relationships.
Michelle also discusses the financial realities of caring for therapy horses and keeping these programs available. During the episode, DVNF awarded $25,000 in unrestricted support to Stable Strides and provided a $3,000 college scholarship to a student from a military family participating in the organization’s internship program.
This conversation highlights the importance of finding a new mission after service, building trusted communities, and creating spaces where veterans and military families can reconnect with purpose, support, and one another.
Learn more about Stable Strides:
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#StableStrides #DVNF #OperationMissionPossible #Veterans #MilitaryFamilies #equinetherapy #AdaptiveRiding #AirForce
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