Mettle of Honor Podcast

Martha Elizabeth McSally is an American politician and former military pilot (A-10 Warthog). During her 26-year military career, McSally deployed six times to the Middle East and Afghanistan, flying 325 combat hours and earning the Bronze Star and six Air Medals. She served as U.S. Representative for (AZ-R 2nd Congressional District) 2015-2019 proceeded by time as United States Senator (AZ-R) 2019 to 2020. In her speeches, Martha McSally has the ability to take her lessons learned from combat, life, and extreme athletic endeavors and enthusiastically apply them in practical, memorable experiences propelling teams to excellence. Through humor, transparency, emotional connection, and powerful storytelling, she brings the audience into the cockpit, behind the scenes of high-stakes leadership moments in our nation’s history, and captures hearts along the way, all while imparting actionable take-aways that can immediately empower individuals and teams. As a commander of her A-10 squadron, she oversaw $500M in assets and $40M in annual resources and was responsible to deploy her unit worldwide with just 24-hours’ notice. McSally was deployed to Saudi Arabia on 9/11 and became a key leader in planning and executing initial air operations in Afghanistan. As a Colonel, she was hand-picked as initial cadre to stand up U.S. Africa Command from scratch, building a complex organization with limited time and resources. She then led oversight of all African continent operations, including counterterrorism and disaster relief. This experience built on her expertise in strategic planning, process creation/improvement, knowledge management, logistics, and operations. Colonel McSally is a values-driven trailblazer who demonstrates courage and integrity in her leadership, even when coming at a personal cost. She bravely took on the Pentagon in an 8-year battle to overturn discriminatory policies towards servicewomen deployed to Saudi Arabia—and won. McSally holds a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University’s JFK School of Government, . As a continuation of her service to our country and others and commitment to not walk by a problem, she served four years in the U.S. House of Representatives and two years as a U.S. Senator, which is not the focus of her speeches unless asked. (She often quips it was the least interesting thing she has done in her life!) She is the author of Dare to Fly—Simple Lessons in Never Giving Up, which motivates readers to overcome fear and adversity to achieve their full potential. McSally lives in Tucson, AZ where she enjoys hiking with her rescue Golden Retriever Boomer, running, and paragliding. Through determination, discipline and grit, McSally has run over a dozen marathons, won three national military triathlon championships, and competed in two Ironman triathlons including the grueling Hawaii Ironman world championship where she won the women’s military division and placed 12th in the world in her age group. She also summited many peaks including Mt Kilimanjaro (highest mountain in Africa at 19,340 ft) and Mt Blanc (highest in Western Europe). She is a force of nature ready to inspire and equip your team. Sexual Assault and Misconduct in the Military The Heritage Rhode Island Hall of Fame https://riheritagehalloffame.com/Colonel-Martha-McSally/ https://marthamcsally.com/about/ The Keynote https://thekeynotecurators.com/speaker/martha-mcsally/

Shannon Hough. She has worn multiple hats as it relates to the military and veteran communities. She’s a military brat (dad served in the Army), she served in the U.S. Navy and is a married to a now retired Army serviceman). If that isn't enough of an understanding of the military life, Shannon Hough is also the mother of a service member. Having a daughter serving in the U.S. Marine Corps (Sempere Fi) Shannon Hough has experienced life tied to various branches of the military as well as different roles (daughter, wife, service member, veteran, and mother. Sounds to me like there's not much of a perspective she won't understand. Which is why you won't hear me say, "Shannon, you just don't get it," because...well, why would I? She would probably tell me, "Okay, Tiffany, you can go now." That's not why this episode has the title that it does. You'll have to hear explain this title. Shannon Hough has also served as a mayor - TWICE! Not two consecutive seats. Not in the say city or even same state. The first place she was a mayor was while she and her husband live in California. They've since moved to Wisconsin (Cheese Head!) where she also served as mayor in smalltown, USA. If that isn't enough political affiliation, Shannon has also served as a congressional staff member and as a city administrator. Shannon holds an MPA and MBA from Norwich University. It sounds to me like there isn't much Shannon can't do! But herstory doesn't end there. There's so much more to her story. Shannon endured a...tell you what...I don't want to tell her story her in the show notes. It's her story to tell, not me. While Shannon was serving as a congressional staffer, she encountered several service members who needed help dealing with their own trauma - similar to her own. As it is with many people who decided to create a nonprofit or helping organization, Shannon Hugh founded "Shield of Sisters" as a way to help her sisters in service - the numerous lady veterans that endured MST. Shannon’s passion is helping others find restoration and supporting her sister service members. She is an avid reader, loves to cook and spend time with her family, including her dog Zeus.  __________________________________________________  "When I decided to create Shield of Sisters, I was broken. I had dealt with my trauma for over 30 years. Some would say that I had no issues, I have been fairly successful in my life. I was surviving; I wanted to thrive. I was tired of letting my past dictate my present and future. I contacted various people to see what we could do to change not only my path but the paths of my sisters. The restoration retreat created a new way of thinking for me. You may ask, how can 2.5 days change years of pain? It does! I went into the retreat a bit skeptical and came out 2.5 days later ready to share this breakthrough with my fellow sisters who have survived MST. You’re not in this alone." – Shannon Hough ____________________________________________________ Shield of Sisters: Helping sister service members overcome Military Sexual Trauma (https://www.shieldofsisters.org/) LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-hough-mpa-mba-4513567a/) Shield of Sisters is a 501(c)(3) Non-profit Organization • EIN 88-4176126 • DUNS 118924053 You are not alone. We’re here for you.

Dr. Mark L. Gordon is an endocrinologist in Magnolia, Texas. He received his medical degree from Universidad de Guadalajara and has been in practice for more than 20 years. Endocrinologists treat hormone-related conditions, which most commonly include diabetes, thyroid disease, pituitary gland issues and hormonal imbalances. Since 2004, Dr. Mark Gordon has spearheaded the application of the science now being used to address and treat individuals suffering with neuropsychiatric illnesses brought on by trauma and mental stress. The insidious damage caused by traumatic brain injury has emerged from the shadows and is receiving the medical focus it requires. Much of this change has occurred due to two of the main victims of traumatic brain injury—soldiers returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and impact sports that include football and boxing. Of course, civilians also incur traumatic brain injury from automobile accidents, falls, and assaults. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 3 to 5 millionAmericans are living with traumatic brain injury-related disability. Current medical practice has little to provide these victims, who may go on to suffer cognitive problems ranging from dizziness and headaches to depression and dementia throughout their lifetime. Mark Gordon, MD, has successfully treated both veterans and civilians with traumatic brain injury by restoring neurosteroid levels. Working with veterans who have sustained significant combat injuries to the brain, Dr. Gordon has restored wholeness to their lives. Hopefully, his innovative work with neurosteroids will find its way into mainstream medicine to help the millions suffering with traumatic brain injury. Dr. Mark Gordon Contact Information TBI Now Website: https://tbihelpnow.org/media Millennium Health Store: https://www.millenniumhealthstore.com YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@markl.gordon5856 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/mark-gordon-63536656 Email address: millenniumcenters@gmail.com Office location: Green Bend Court, Suite 100, Magnolia, TX, 77354 https://health.usnews.com/doctors/mark-gordon-586138 Dr. Daniel Perl (Pathologist) Uniformed Services University (Bethesda, MD) Research: Traumatic Brain Injury and Neurodegeneration www.usuhs.edu/profile/daniel-perl-md Email daniel.perl@usuhs.edu | Office Phone (301) 285-5534 Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain disorder likely caused by repeated head injuries. It causes the death of nerve cells in the brain, known as degeneration. CTE gets worse over time. The only way to definitively diagnosis CTE is after death during an autopsy of the brain. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-traumatic-encephalopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20370921

Gregg Forrest Martin is a United States Army two-star general who retired as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Engineers in 2014. From July 2012 to July 2014, he was the President of the National Defense University at Fort McNair Army Base in Washington, D.C.  Gregg F. Martin, PhD, Major General, US Army (Retired), served on active duty for 36 years, until May 2015. He is a combat veteran, Bipolar Survivor, Airborne-Ranger-Engineer qualified soldier, and Army Strategist. He holds a Ph.D. and two master's degrees from MIT, master's degrees in national security strategy from both the Army and Naval war colleges, and a bachelor's degree from West Point. He commanded an engineer company, battalion, the 130th Engineer Brigade in combat during the first year of the Iraq War in 2003-04, including the attack from Kuwait, up the Euphrates River Valley, to Baghdad and beyond. He served multiple overseas tours, and, as a general officer, commanded the Corps of Engineers Northwest Division, was Commandant of the Army Engineer School, commanded Fort Leonard Wood, was Deputy Commanding General of Third Army/US Army Central, Commandant of the Army War College, President of National Defense University, and Special Assistant to the Chief of Engineers. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (twice), the Bronze Star Medal, and the Combat Action Badge. He is married with three sons, two of whom are U.S. Army combat veterans, and one an artist. His daughter-in-law is also an Army combat veteran. His wife is an “Army brat” and heroine for persevering though their Army career and surviving and overcoming their bipolar ordeal, which has been the toughest fight of their lives. They live in Cocoa Beach, FL, where he is writing, speaking, and sharing his story of “battling bipolar disorder” to help save lives and stop the stigma. Gregg F. Martin; PhD (US Army, Major General, Retired), #YouveGotMettle Website: https://www.generalgreggmartin.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-f-martin-222735aa/ International Bipolar Foundation / “General Gregg’s Corner”: https://ibpf.org/general-greggs-corner/ Wikipedia Page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregg_F._Martin  

The transition from military service to civilian life can be a complex and challenging journey. For many veterans, it involves not only adjusting to a different lifestyle but also dealing with the physical, mental and spiritual wounds that often result from their service. This Veterans Day, I hope Americans will be willing to take a closer look at the difficulties that many veterans face, and more deeply appreciate their sacrifices and for what they sacrificed. Jon Macaskill - Retired Navy SEAL Commander http://linkedin.com/in/jonmacaskill | jonmacaskill.com | YouTube.com/@mentalkingmindfulness | jonmacaskill@macaskillconsulting.com Annette Whittenberger - Retired Army Chemical Officer (Major) (http://linkedin.com/in/annette-whittenberger-a-wild-ride-called-life- | www.awildridecalledlife.com Algrish Williams, MPA - Retired US Army Command Sergeants Major (CSM) http://linkedin.com/in/algrishwilliams) | David H. Petraeus - Retired US Army General & Former Director, CIA http://linkedin.com/in/davidpetraeus http://KKR.com) Dr. Bernard Tony (Retired Army Major) who served on the White House Medical Staff assigned to #POTUS http://linkedin.com/in/btoneyjr https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/31/a-proclamation-on-national-veterans-and-military-families-month-2022/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/11/11/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-is-supporting-americas-veterans-and-their-families-caregivers-and-survivors/ #veteransday2023

Pasha is a corporate trainer and speaker on the topics of emotional resilience, mental health, overcoming obstacles, thriving through adversity and staying calm under pressure. Pasha Palanker is a two time recipient of the Purple Heart for wounds received in combat. He is credited with saving the lives of 15 soldiers by confronting and stopping a suicide bomber in a face to face altercation. Pasha is on a mission to break the stigma associated with Mental Health treatment. He is helping organizations address the current nationwide mental health crisis by openly sharing his journey from the high of being an elite warrior, to the rock bottom of emotional breakdown and then back to recovery. Pasha is on a mission to break the stigma associated with Mental Health treatment. He is helping organizations address the current nationwide mental health crisis by openly sharing his journey from the high of being an elite warrior, to the rock bottom of emotional breakdown and then back to recovery. Pasha Palanker Contact Info and resources discussed in this episode. Website: www.pashapalanker.com Email: pasha@pashapalanker.com LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/pasha-palanker-89141a13a Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pashapalanker/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pashapalankerpublic/ Resources Veterans Crisis Line https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ 9-8-8 Lifeline https://988lifeline.org/ There are several ways to contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Text with a Veterans Crisis Line responder – Send a text message to 838255 Online chat with a Veterans Crisis Line responder – Click the chat button here. 13 Suicide and Crisis Intervention Hotlines to Call or Text When You Need Help: Call these numbers if you or anyone you know is experiencing abuse, domestic violence, suicidal thoughts or sexual assault. (January 11,2023) Sarah Mitroff (https://www.cnet.com/health/suicide-hotlines-crisis-hotlines-to-call-when-you-need-help/) Línea 988 de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis. Todos podemos ayudar a prevenir el suicidio. 988 Lifeline brinda apoyo gratuito y confidencial las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana para personas que están pasando por momentos difíciles. También ofrecemos recursos de prevención y crisis para usted o sus seres queridos al igual que mejores prácticas para profesionales en los Estados Unidos. Para usuarios de TTY: use su servicio de retransmisión preferido o marque 711 y luego 988. https://988lifeline.org/es/ayudarse-a-si-mismo/sordo-con-problemas-de-audicion-perdida-auditiva/ 988 Lifeline es una red nacional de centros locales de crisis que brinda apoyo emocional gratuito y confidencial a personas que están pasando por crisis suicida o angustia emocional las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana en los Estados Unidos. Nos comprometemos a mejorar los servicios de manejo de crisis y prevención de suicidios empoderando individuos, contribuyendo al avance en mejores prácticas de profesionales y también creando conciencia. ACERCA DE LIFELINE

USMC Veteran Dale Walls

Ladies and gentlemen, please allow me to introduce a man who exemplifies the utmost skill, dedication, and courage in the field of aviation. Meet John Ballenger, a distinguished Marine One pilot who has soared to great heights in service to our nation. With a firm grip on the controls and an unwavering sense of responsibility, John has been entrusted with the critical task of piloting the iconic Marine One helicopter. As the primary aircraft used to transport the President of the United States, it requires a pilot of exceptional caliber, and John is nothing short of that. Having honed his skills through rigorous training and countless hours in the air, John's journey to becoming a Marine One pilot is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. From his early days of flight school to his extensive experience in military aviation, he has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and precision. But it is not just John's technical expertise that sets him apart. His passion for serving his country and protecting its highest office shines through in every flight he embarks upon. The responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of the President demands an unwavering dedication, and John embraces this with unwavering resolve. Through his countless missions, John has been entrusted with the transportation of world leaders, dignitaries, and the Commander-in-Chief himself. His calm demeanor and unyielding focus in high-pressure situations have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and superiors alike. As a Marine One pilot, John Ballenger stands as a symbol of the unwavering commitment and dedication that our armed forces exhibit in their pursuit of excellence. With each flight, he exemplifies the core values of honor, courage, and commitment that define the United States Marine Corps. So, let us commend John Ballenger for his exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and profound contributions as a Marine One pilot. His service to our nation and his commitment to protecting our highest leaders make him a true hero in the skies.

“In the quiet solitude of her son’s bedroom, her mind drifted and fixated on her husband’s .45 caliber pistol.In November 2018, the sergeant first class thought about suicide for the first time. Since she had accepted an assignment to serve as a platoon sergeant in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), Chelsea struggled to strike a balance of time for duty and family. “I was good enough at work,” she said. “I wasn't good enough at home. I was failing somewhere. … Nothing was good enough.”She tried to envision how her life would be different if she ended her life. The survivor: Soldier overcomes battle with suicide By Joseph Lacdan, Army News ServiceSeptember 9, 2020 (https://www.army.mil/article/238891/the_survivor_soldier_overcomes_battle_with_suicide?ssp=1&setlang=en-US&safesearch=moderate) Welcome to "The Mettle of Honor Podcast: Veteran Stories of strength, courage, & perseverance. This weeks guest is Sergeant First Class (SFC) Chelsea Porterfield, a retired Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the United States Army. Chelsea served as a Military Police (MP) in peacetime and in multiple combat tours. She also served as a Drill Sergeant, an Instructor for the MP’s Captains Career Course, and sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia. (https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/). During her tenure as the 38th Sergeant of the Guard, she made history as the first female to hold this esteemed position. Listen in as we delve into Chelsea's remarkable journey. Her journey is remarkable-not because of her accomplishments in uniform, but because of her persistence and tenacity to push forward in life. Chelsea shares powerful insights as to what was going on personally with her struggles and contemplating suicide. Through heartfelt conversations, we explore the challenges Chelsea faced and the resilience she embodied in her military career. Tune in to this extraordinary episode of "The Mettle of Honor Podcast" as we honor the extraordinary service and leadership of SFC Chelsea Porterfield, a true hero among us. The Survivor: Soldier Overcomes battle with suicide | By Joseph Lacdan | Army News Service | September 9, 2020 | https://www.army.mil/article/238891/the_survivor_soldier_overcomes_battle_with_suicide