Center for Minority Veterans, VFW Foundation, and the All of Us Program

In this engaging episode of #StillServing, Rob Couture and co-host Brittany Dymond Murray sit down with Tammy Barlet, Jennifer Ross, and Kristina Keenan for a deep dive into the partnership between the VFW and Student Veterans of America (SVA). Together, they explore how SVA chapters support student veterans on campus, the impact of the GI Bill, and the opportunities created through the VFW–SVA Legislative Fellowship. From personal journeys to national advocacy, the conversation highlights how the next generation of veterans is shaping policy, building community, and carrying forward the VFW’s legacy of service. From the campus lounge to Capitol Hill, today’s student veterans are tomorrow’s leaders — still learning, still leading, and still serving. Featured Guests: Tammy Barlet – Vice President, Government Affairs, Student Veterans of America; VFW Legacy Life Member (PA) Jennifer Ross – VFW–SVA Legislative Fellow Alum; VFW Life Member Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Brittany Dymond Murray – Co-host & Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs & Strategic Outreach Episode Highlights: 0:00 Welcome 2:15 Spotlight on Student Veterans of America and VFW partnership 4:54 Tammy Barlet’s journey from student veteran to national advocate 10:01 What SVA chapters offer on campus vs. VFW posts in the community 13:43 SVA’s 1,600+ chapters worldwide and their role in student success 18:33 The VFW–SVA Legislative Fellowship: purpose, process, and impact 20:19 Jennifer Ross shares her fellowship experience and advocacy on Guard/Reserve GI Bill parity 22:47 Application process, mentorship, and building a community action plan 25:18 Preparing student veterans to brief Congress alongside the VFW 27:02 Advocacy paths for introverts and extroverts alike 29:25 Fellowship open to all fields of study — passion drives impact 31:16 Balancing school, SVA, VFW, and fellowship commitments 1:06:54 Afghanistan War Commission session 1:08:27 Historic election of Carol Whitmore as the VFW’s first female Commander-in-Chief 1:11:01 Good of the Order: Tammy on how SVA modeled claims clinics after the VFW convention 1:14:13 Kristina Keenan previews the upcoming Fall Legislative Conference and expanded grassroots advocacy 1:17:22 Call to action: Afghanistan veterans encouraged to share experiences with the Afghanistan War Commission   For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

22 Elo 1h 24min

In this action-packed episode of #StillServing, Rob Couture is joined by co-host Brittany Dymond Murray and VFW national leadership for a wide-ranging discussion on veteran advocacy, legislative wins, healthcare reform, and diplomacy. With guests Kristina Keenan and Ryan Gallucci, they unpack recent victories like the passage of the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, explore the challenges veterans face accessing community care, and recount the VFW’s pivotal role in strengthening U.S.–Vietnam relations over the past 30 years. From Capitol Hill to Hanoi and the halls of the Pentagon, the VFW remains on the front lines — still leading, still advancing, and still serving. Featured Guests: Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Brittany Dymond Murray – Co-host & Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs & Strategic Outreach Episode Highlights: 0:00 Welcome and intros 2:42 Old biz: “Honor the Contract” and VA workforce update 12:50 Passage of the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act 22:46 Inside the advocacy: how the VFW and members made it happen 30:04 Kristina Keenan testifies before Congress on VA community care 41:26 Real-world experiences with scheduling, billing, and access 52:20 VFW supports the Veterans Access Act to improve care coordination 1:02:45 30 years of U.S.–Vietnam diplomatic relations: a VFW legacy 1:12:11 Artifact repatriation at the Vietnamese Embassy in D.C. 1:18:20 Meeting with SecDef Pete Hegseth: VFW discusses transition, quality of life, and overseas care 1:27:05 VFW’s role in readiness, resilience, and policy shaping 1:34:50 Good of the Order: Texas flood relief, convention updates, and Exhibit Hall stage preview For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

30 Heinä 1h 19min

Rob Couture is joined by Brittany Dymond Murray and members of VFW Post 152 in this pre-Independence Day episode of #StillServing to explore the powerful true story behind the podcast Deep Cover: The Truth About Sarah. They reflect on how the Post weathered a major deception, maintained integrity, and continued serving their community with purpose and pride. From verifying service eligibility to navigating public fallout and strengthening community trust, this episode highlights the importance of transparency, resilience, and the enduring commitment to support fellow veterans—no matter the challenge. Featured Guests:   David Ainslie – Post Commander, VFW Post 152 Justin Hsu – Member, VFW Post 152 Brittany Dymond Murray – Co-host & Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veterans Service Nancy Springer – Associate Director, VFW National Legislative Service   Episode Highlights:  0:00 Introductions and new studio setup 1:57 Preview of topics: Deep Cover, VFW community impact, action alerts, and July 4th 3:45 Overview of the Sarah saga—early impressions of Deep Cover podcast 8:31 Guest introduction: David Ainslie and Justin Hsu from Post 152 17:17 Personal reflections on service, illness, and continuing to support others 28:17 Community response post-scandal and long-term recovery 38:17 Final thoughts from Post 152: “Still Serving is a mindset, not a motto” 40:31 VFW in the Community 1:30:40 Good of the Order   For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online     Deep Cover: Sarah Cavanaugh was many things to the people who knew her: A decorated veteran. A Marine who saved her comrades. A young woman fighting cancer. She was stoic, humble, tough. In short: a hero. Sarah was everything people wanted her to be—until she wasn’t. Turns out, no one knew the real Sarah. Pulitzer Prize winner Jake Halpern and acclaimed investigative journalist Jess McHugh unravel the stolen valor story of Sarah Cavanaugh's epic six-year deception that upended the lives of countless people. To this day, much of this story is shrouded in mystery—there was never a trial and most of the people involved, including victims and investigators, have never spoken publicly in any depth. Until now. In Deep Cover, Jake and Jess interview all of the story’s major characters—including Sarah, herself—to tell this sprawling tale. Binge Deep Cover: The Truth About Sarah wherever you get your podcasts. Link: lnk.to/DCVFW   Medal of Honor: Rewarded for bravery that goes above and beyond the call of duty, the Medal of Honor is the United States’ top military decoration. Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage is a podcast about the heroes who have distinguished themselves by acts of heroism and courage that have saved lives. From Judith Resnik, the second woman in space, to Daniel Daly, one of only 19 people to have received the Medal of Honor twice, these are stories about those who have done the improbable and unexpected, who have sacrificed something in the name of something much bigger than themselves. Every Wednesday on Medal of Honor, U.S. Army veteran J.R. Martinez uncovers what their experiences tell us about the nature of sacrifice, why people put their lives in danger for others, and what happens after you’ve become a hero. Listen to Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage wherever you get podcasts. Link: lnk.to/MOHVFW

3 Heinä 1h 25min

Host Rob Couture is joined by key members of the VFW Washington Office to discuss major advocacy initiatives, spotlight ongoing support for veterans, and reflect on the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration. From addressing misinformation about VA policies to championing legislation like the Richard Star Act and SAVES Act, this episode focuses on ensuring veterans receive the benefits and protections they’ve earned—while also calling out the importance of accredited claims support and pre-discharge assistance. Featured Guests: Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Gregg Orto – Deputy Director, VFW National Veterans Service Keith Garrison – Assistant Director, VFW National Veterans Service Brittany Dymond Murray – Co-host & Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights: 7:33 Honoring the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday—celebration insights and logistical challenges. 22:00 Partnering with Grunt Style & Irreverent Warriors on mental health and safe medication practices. 33:00 Clarifying misinformation around VA’s updated nondiscrimination policy. 41:48 Clearing the air on the Richard Star Act. 51:00 Spotlight on the SAVES Act: supporting survivors of military sexual trauma. 1:18:45 The value of accredited VFW help and the BDD program for transitioning service members. 1:30:32 The Good of the Order Tune in for essential updates, honest dialogue, and continued dedication to those who’ve served—because we’re always #StillServing.   Links mentioned: https://www.vfwstore.org/ https://www.vfw.org/contact-us For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online     Deep Cover: Sarah Cavanaugh was many things to the people who knew her: A decorated veteran. A Marine who saved her comrades. A young woman fighting cancer. She was stoic, humble, tough. In short: a hero. Sarah was everything people wanted her to be—until she wasn’t. Turns out, no one knew the real Sarah. Pulitzer Prize winner Jake Halpern and acclaimed investigative journalist Jess McHugh unravel the stolen valor story of Sarah Cavanaugh's epic six-year deception that upended the lives of countless people. To this day, much of this story is shrouded in mystery—there was never a trial and most of the people involved, including victims and investigators, have never spoken publicly in any depth. Until now. In Deep Cover, Jake and Jess interview all of the story’s major characters—including Sarah, herself—to tell this sprawling tale. Binge Deep Cover: The Truth About Sarah wherever you get your podcasts. Link: lnk.to/DCVFW   Medal of Honor: Rewarded for bravery that goes above and beyond the call of duty, the Medal of Honor is the United States’ top military decoration. Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage is a podcast about the heroes who have distinguished themselves by acts of heroism and courage that have saved lives. From Judith Resnik, the second woman in space, to Daniel Daly, one of only 19 people to have received the Medal of Honor twice, these are stories about those who have done the improbable and unexpected, who have sacrificed something in the name of something much bigger than themselves. Every Wednesday on Medal of Honor, U.S. Army veteran J.R. Martinez uncovers what their experiences tell us about the nature of sacrifice, why people put their lives in danger for others, and what happens after you’ve become a hero. Listen to Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage wherever you get podcasts. Link: lnk.to/MOHVFW

20 Kesä 1h 48min

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture welcomes back co-host Brittany Dymond Murray in a new virtual capacity and is joined by VFW Washington Office staff to discuss a range of critical veteran issues. The team recaps a meaningful Memorial Day weekend, including wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. They honor the legacy of past VFW National Commanders interred at Arlington and reflect on the significance of National Commander Al Lipphardt’s personal connection to the Vietnam War. The episode dives into the ongoing legislative fight for the Major Richard Star Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at fixing the unjust offset between DoD retirement pay and VA disability compensation for medically retired combat-injured veterans. Brittany passionately explains the history, misconceptions, and urgent need for action, emphasizing that the VFW has been leading advocacy efforts since the bill’s inception. The conversation also highlights recent developments around fraudulent claims, warning veterans about the dangers of working with unaccredited Claim Sharks. Lastly, the hosts celebrate a new memorandum between DoD and VA, which promises a more seamless transition to care for service members which is a long-overdue step toward closing critical gaps in support.

6 Kesä 1h 25min

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture catches up with his fellow directors of the VFW Washington Office after an almost two-month-long hiatus.  Featured Guests: • Ryan Gallucci – Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Director, VFW Washington Office • Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veterans Service • Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Episode Highlights: Ryan shares his recent health issues and his travels overseas while accompanying VFW senior leadership visiting troops and international partners. Kristina discusses the success of the Washington Conference, her recent promotion as the new VFW legislative director, and the current legislation she and her team are advocating for. Mike talks about the $14.6 billion that VFW service officers have recouped for veterans they have assisted in the VA claims process. He also discusses some of the latest online tools available to veterans in claiming their earned benefits. Rob tells of his travels to Southeast Asia, visiting Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) sites in Thailand and Vietnam. He also recounts a heartfelt story of a recent journey with his siblings on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of his father's plane crash at Fort Hood, Texas. Lastly, Rob gives a status update about his co-host, Brittany Dymond Murray.    Join us for powerful discussions, firsthand insights, and a commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve. The VFW is always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

24 Huhti 53min

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture and co-host Brittany Dymond Murray speak with VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt and Chief of Staff Jeff Carroll about the organization's ongoing efforts to support veterans. Lipphardt shares his military background, how he joined the VFW, and his leadership philosophy which is centered on integrity, responsibility, and military values. The discussion highlights the VFW’s advocacy work, including their upcoming Washington Conference, where Lipphardt will testify before Congress on key veteran issues such as healthcare, VA funding, and disaster response efforts. He emphasizes the importance of VFW members actively engaging in leadership and advocacy, ensuring veterans’ voices are heard at all levels of government.

28 Helmi 1h 22min

In this latest episode of #StillServing, host Rob Couture explores the VFW’s advocacy efforts, highlighting key issues affecting veterans and service members. From Congressional testimonies to veterans' healthcare access overseas, this episode sheds light on how the VFW continues to fight for those who served. Featured Guests: • Nancy Springer – Associate Director, National Legislative Service • Ryan Gallucci – Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Director, VFW Washington Office • Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights: 6:55 – Congressional Testimonies: VA Fiduciary Rules & Community Care Issues​ 14:00 – VFW Delegation’s Visit to U.S. Troops in Europe​ 34:48 – Associate Director Nancy Springer’s Road to the VFW Washington Office 1:12:30 – VA Secretary Nominee Doug Collins’ Confirmation Hearing​ Join us for powerful discussions, firsthand insights, and a commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve. The VFW is always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

7 Helmi 1h 25min