In this gripping follow-up episode, retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack returns to share the lasting impact of surviving a horrific insider attack during his time with the 101st Airborne. He shares the emotional and strategic fallout of that day, and how it reshaped his understanding of trust, leadership, and personal safety.

Tune in as Bart offers powerful, practical lessons drawn from his experience. From spotting red flags to understanding the “proximity illusion,” he breaks down the situational awareness strategies that can help prevent violence before it happens. Bart also shares his advice for fellow veterans navigating the transition to civilian life, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding your tribe, staying connected, and reaching out to those who’ve walked a similar path.

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

0:00 – Intro

1:37 – The attack and its impact

6:22 – Strategies to mitigate insider threats

11:42 – The impact of society, mental health, and lack of faith in today’s world

14:25 – Embracing situational awareness

18:05 – Final thoughts and advice

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Visit Bart’s website HERE

Read The Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of The Embedded Enemy HERE

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We are honored to welcome retired Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack to the podcast today. With over 29 years of distinguished service in the United States Army, he’ll share his story from enlistment to leading thousands of soldiers in the 101st Airborne Division.

In the first of a two-part conversation, Bart reflects on his early days in the military and the leadership lessons that shaped him. He recounts a harrowing insider attack at Camp Pennsylvania in 2003- an event that left soldiers wounded, lives lost, and a community forever changed. You’ll also hear how Bart navigated the transition to civilian life, found healing through storytelling, and used his experience to shape his book, Embedded Enemy.

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

0:00 – Intro

2:29 – Bart’s time in service

6:47 – Helping soldiers find strength in themselves

10:54 – Bart’s transition to Hollywood

15:20 – The transition to civilian life

17:26 –The Embedded Enemy incident and its impact

27:42 – Bart’s advice for veterans

CSM Bart Womack

Learn more about Bart HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Read Embedded Enemy Book summary HERE

Get your copy of Embedded Enemy HERE

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

We’re honored to be joined by Clarence Jones today, a Marine Corps veteran whose own struggles after service ignited his passion for helping others. After facing challenges that led to a medical discharge, Clarence experienced firsthand the difficulties many veterans encounter when transitioning to civilian life. Determined to make a difference, he now works with the Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC) to connect veterans with critical resources for housing, mental health, and addiction recovery.

In this episode, Clarence shares how CAADC and the Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) programs are making a real impact, providing veterans with the tools they need to regain stability and independence. If you or someone you know is struggling with housing insecurity, financial hardships, or other post-service challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

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

0:00 – Intro

1:09 – Getting to know Clarence

4:39 – Understanding the CAADC and SSVF

6:47 – The main struggles veterans face

8:03 – No veteran left behind

12:23 – How veterans can get help from Clarence and the team

Clarence Jones

"My name is Clarence E Jones Jr. I work for CAADC the SSVF (Support Services for Veterans Family) dept. I'm a USMC Disable Vet. I have been at the company for 5 years. The SSVF was established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and aims to rapidly re-house homeless Veteran families and prevent homelessness for very low-income Veterans at imminent risk due to a housing crisis. It provides case management, temporary financial assistance, and supportive services to help individuals and families gain housing stability and end their homelessness."

EPISODE LINKS

CAADC Website:

https://caadc.org/

SSVF Website:

https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In this episode, we are joined by Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey, a 12-year Army veteran who now works with the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) in Pennsylvania. After serving in Iraq and returning home, Dartanyun faced the challenges of finding his place in the civilian world firsthand.

Today, he plays a crucial role in assisting veterans as they navigate barriers to employment. His journey offers valuable insights into the challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life- whether it’s dealing with employment uncertainty, personal struggles, or overcoming mental health hurdles. Tune in as he talks about the important work the DVOP is doing to help veterans find their next step.

Whether you’re struggling to find a job, feel disconnected, or are unsure about your next step, this episode is packed with helpful strategies and encouragement to help you move forward.

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

0:00 – Intro

1:43 – Getting to know Dartanyun

6:48 – Helping veterans become employment-ready

9:23 – The value of veterans helping other veterans

11:54 – Advice for veterans seeking employment

14:59 – Setting realistic expectations for career transition

Dartanyun Wilkins-Harvey

Learn more about Dartanyun HERE

Learn more about the DVOP: https://www.pacareerlinklackawanna.org/veterans-services-1#:~:text=About%20DVOP&text=Through%20the%20Disabled%20Veterans%20Outreach,various%20community%20resources%20for%20Veterans.

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Navigating the VA benefits system can be frustrating, exhausting, and emotionally draining. Many veterans feel unheard and stuck in an endless cycle- but you don’t have to fight alone.

In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re sitting down with Neil Woods and Lori Underwood of Woods & Woods: The Veterans Firm to discuss the biggest challenges veterans face when filing claims, why persistence is key, and how professional advocacy can make all the difference.

Neil and Lori share powerful insights from years of working with veterans, offering guidance on how to push forward, get the support you deserve, and take the stress off your shoulders. If you or a loved one are struggling with a VA claim, this episode is a must-listen!

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

0:00 – Intro

1:52 – Overview of Woods & Woods

4:27 – VA disability claims, service-connected conditions & family benefits

11:49 – Challenges and process of VA claims

15:14 – Toxic exposure and long-term care for veterans

25:46 – Final advice and encouragement

About Our Guests:

Neil Woods is the president Woods & Woods, The Veterans Firm. He received his law degree from Western Michigan University.

Lori Underwood is the managing attorney at Woods & Woods, The Veterans Firm. She received her J.D. from Northern Kentucky University.

EPISODE LINKS

Learn more about Woods & Woods Law Firm

https://www.woodslawyers.com/

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Today we have the privilege of speaking with Brie White, a passionate advocate for veterans and the Director of Griswold Home Care in Delaware County. As an army brat, she has witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by her family members, which has fueled her desire to give back to the veteran community.

Griswold Home Care operates as a non-medical home care agency and is a nationally VA-approved provider. With over 200 locations across 32 states, they are dedicated to serving veterans and enhancing their quality of life.

We encourage you to share this episode with anyone who may benefit from hearing about Griswold's resources available for veterans. Whether you are a veteran yourself or know someone who has served, there is help out there, and reaching out is the first step towards a better quality of life.

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

0:00 – Intro
1:29 – Getting to know Brie
3:02 – An overview of Griswold Home Care Services
5:43 – The challenge of accessing services for veterans
7:13 – Griswold’s partnerships and expanding reach
10:06 – Key services that veterans need
12:11 – Brie’s message for veterans

Brie White

Learn more about Brie HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Griswold Home Care

https://www.griswoldcare.com/delaware-county/care-services/

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Welcome back to another episode of Untold Valor! This week, we are joined by the Director of Community Engagement and Development at Sauers Cares, Danielle Fox. She’s here to share more about their new initiative, Drive and Thrive, which is dedicated to uplifting individuals and families facing life’s toughest challenges by providing crucial transportation support.

For veterans, who may already face unique adversities, having dependable transportation can be a game-changer. From Sauers’ quarterly free car clinics to their fuel assistance program, Drive and Thrive is only getting started, and it's already having a profound impact. If this mission resonates with you, be sure to listen until the end to find out how you can lend a helping hand!

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

0:00 – Intro
1:28 – Getting to know Danielle and Sauers Cares
3:54 – The Drive and Thrive initiative
8:01 – The next car clinic and application process
9:46 – Volunteer opportunities and additional programs

Danielle Fox

Learn more about Danielle HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Sauers Cares
https://www.sauerscares.org/

Drive and Thrive
https://comedriveandthrive.org/

Donate to Drive and Thrive
https://sauerscares.salsalabs.org/driventogive/index.html?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=3f387be0-2d51-42d4-beef-83fded25a771

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re honored to share the inspiring journey of Kathryn "Kat" Kirkman, a fourth-generation military veteran. Following a family legacy of service, Kat began her career at the United States Air Force Academy, where she studied astronautical engineering before becoming an air refueling pilot. However, her military career came to an abrupt end when medical issues led to an early retirement.

Faced with the question of what to do next, Kat found herself drawn to social work. She didn’t know then that her path would lead her to serving veterans. Today, she is the co-founder of Sisters in Wellness, an organization focused on supporting women veterans through connection, overall wellness, and suicide awareness and prevention.

Additionally, she leads employment and training programs at the Veteran Multi-Service Center, helping veterans navigate life beyond the military.

Listen in as Kat shares her inspiring journey and reminds us that even when life takes an unexpected turn, it can open doors to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose.

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

0:00 – Intro
1:41 – Kat’s military background and transition to civilian life
5:39 – How social work led Kat back to helping veterans
8:30 – Helping female veterans through Sisters in Wellness
11:15 – Kat’s work with veteran employment
14:28 – Homecoming 250 celebration
15:51 – Kat’s encouragement to listeners

Kat Kirkman

Learn more about Kat HERE

EPISODE LINKS

Sisters in Wellness: https://sistersinwellness.eventbrite.com/, email: vetsistersinwellness@gmail.com

Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC): https://www.vmcenter.org/

VMC Employment and training email: hvrp-philly@vmcenter.org

Homecoming 250: https://www.homecoming250.org/

Homecoming 250 All Veterans Reunion Picnic email: kat.kirkman@homecoming250.org

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

Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.