DVNF Mission Possible Podcast

Shield of Sisters – A Mission of Healing and Empowerment

For Navy veteran Shannon Hough, the hardest battles weren’t fought overseas—they came after her military service. After enduring Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and years of silence, Shannon found healing through purpose. She now leads Shield of Sisters, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women veterans navigate the long, often unseen road to recovery.In this moving conversation, Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) & CEO for the DVNF speak with Shannon about her personal story—how trauma shaped her early years, how it nearly cost her everything, and how she ultimately found strength in service to others.They explore MST’s far-reaching impact, the difficulty of speaking up, and how visualization, peer connection, and purpose-driven living (ikigai) can help survivors rebuild their lives. Shannon also shares how Shield of Sisters is offering more than support—it’s offering a path forward.Whether you’re a survivor, a veteran, a supporter, or someone searching for tools to grow through hardship, this episode offers real stories, real resources, and real hope.Chapters & Topics:00:00 – Welcome & Shannon’s Early Military Journey08:30 – MST, Coercion, and the Burden of Silence20:15 – The Long-Term Impact and Unseen Struggles31:10 – Rock Bottom Moments and Turning Points45:15 – Letting Go of Trauma: The Bowling Ball Metaphor52:20 – Programs at Shield of Sisters: Retreats, Peer Support, Advocacy58:10 – A Message for Survivors: “You Can Go Now”

Overcoming Adversity w/ Special Guest Jessy Lakin

What happens when the mission ends? For Jessy Lakin, a veteran and founder of Alaska Warrior Partnership, leaving the military meant stepping into a whole new set of challenges. In this conversation, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and Dr. Marty Rossman talk with Jessy about the realities of veteran transition, the struggles many face with PTSD, career changes, and personal identity after service.Jessy shares his own story—highlighting the importance of mental wellness, connection, and finding a new mission in civilian life. Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is a must-watch.Chapters & Topics:00:00 - Introduction and Jessy's Deployment16:02 - Jessy's Harrowing Experience in Iraq24:01 - Jessy's Traumatic Experience and Recovery28:25 - Jessy's Combat Experience and Mental Health35:28 - Jessy's Military Experiences and Relationship Struggles40:47 - Jessy's Journey With Combat and Betrayal47:08 - Jessy's Struggles and Frustrating Assistance52:19 - Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Self-Doubt59:11 - Addressing Invisible Wounds and PTSD1:03:48 - Veterans Support and Collaboration DiscussedIf you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Reach out. There is help, and there is hope.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible course for free access to future live sessions and resources for wellness and empowerment: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/#Veterans #Healing #Military#Civilian #Transition #PTSD #Purpose #AlaskaWarriorPartnership

Empowerment and Innovation w/ Special Guest Dr. Rory Cooper

In this podcast session, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) and Dr. Marty Rossman are joined by the extraordinary Dr. Rory Cooper — military veteran, inventor, and pioneering force in rehabilitation engineering. From his journey of resilience after a life-changing spinal cord injury to his groundbreaking work in assistive technology, Dr. Cooper shares powerful insights on adaptability, purpose, and using adversity as fuel for change.Discover how Dr. Cooper's work with the Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) has revolutionized wheelchair design, robotic assistance, and accessibility innovations. Gain perspective on his advocacy for inclusive air travel through the Air Carrier Access Act and hear his advice on overcoming life's toughest challenges.This episode is a must-watch for veterans, innovators, and anyone seeking inspiration to turn obstacles into opportunities. Watch now and learn how resilience, the power of community, and a shift in thinking from being "better than" others to "better for" them can create lasting impact.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible course for free access to future live sessions and resources for wellness and empowerment: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/#Veterans #Resiliency #empowerment #innovation #USA #MissionPossible #HERL #RoryCooper

RTM Protocol and the Reverse Engineering of PTSD w/ Special Guest Dr. Frank Bourke

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Dr. Frank Bourke in an empowering discussion. In this Mission Possible live session, we break down the complexities of PTSD, focusing on its impact on veterans and the latest insights in treatment, including a look into Dr. Bourke's groundbreaking RTM Protocol. 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #rtm #protocol #FrankBourke

Turning Worries Upside Down | Mission Possible Podcast

Transitioning out of military service brings unique challenges, but learning how to reframe worries can make all the difference. In this episode of the Mission Possible Podcast, we dive into strategies to help veterans, first responders, and their families manage the emotional and mental health hurdles that come with this life shift. From PTSD to anxiety, we discuss ways to approach these challenges head-on and find new purpose after service.Join DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) and Dr. Marty Rossman for inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical advice for veterans and anyone navigating major life transitions. Discover how to change your perspective, build resilience, and create a meaningful path forward—whether you're a veteran, a supporter, or someone facing change.Whether you're a veteran, know someone who is, or want to better understand the challenges of the military-to-civilian transition, this episode is packed with practical tips and support. Your journey doesn't end after service—it transforms into a new mission. Let’s make it possible together!👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.#Veterans #MilitaryService #MentalHealth #MissionPossible #SuicidePrevention #MilitaryToCivilian #PTSD #VeteransDay #LifeAfterService #Wellbeing #VeteransStories

Weeding Your Mental Garden w/ Special Guest Emanuel (Manny) Simmons

In this powerful live session, we sit down with DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), Marty Rossman, and Emanuel "Manny" Simmons, a Retired Master Sergeant (USMC) who dedicated 27 years of service to the Marine Corps. Manny shares his inspiring journey, surviving the tragic 1983 Beirut bombing, battling severe injuries, including a collapsed lung and temporary paralysis, and overcoming the psychological challenges that followed. His story highlights the resilience, mental toughness, and support needed for veterans transitioning to civilian life.We dive into crucial topics such as military service, mental health, PTSD, and the importance of suicide prevention among veterans. This conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans and first responders, offering hope and guidance for those navigating life after service. Whether you're a veteran, in the process of transitioning out of the military, or a supporter of our armed forces, this discussion is packed with insights to help ease the journey to civilian life.Watch now to hear a true story of survival, strength, and perseverance.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#Veterans #PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #wellbeing #resilience #overcomingadversity #mentalhealth

Military Transition w/ Special Guest Montel Williams

Montel Williams, a renowned television host and military veteran, shares his personal journey of transitioning from military service to civilian life.Join us as Montel, Dr. Marty Rossman, and DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) discuss the challenges faced by service members during their transition and offer invaluable insights on navigating this critical phase. They address common obstacles and provides practical advice for veterans looking to make a successful shift into the civilian workforce. Whether you're a veteran yourself or someone interested in understanding the military transition process, this interview is a MUST WATCH! 👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#MontelWilliams #overcoming #adversity #truestory #militarytransition #MissionPossible

Building Resilience w/ Special Guest Josh Jabin

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Josh Jabin from The Travis Manion Foundation. Join us for a powerful conversation about building resilience among veterans and their transition from military to civilian life. Two veterans and a mental health specialist will share their experiences, insights, and suggestions for making real change.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#building #resilience #veterans #MissionPossible #TravisManionFoundation #mentalhealth

Veteran Suicide Prevention w/ Special Guest Nick Howland

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Nick Howland from The Fire Watch. We will discuss the challenges of helping veterans who are mentally ill and/or suicidal. Talk about the importance of offering help to veterans who may not realize they need it.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#ptsd #suicidepreventionawareness #Discussed #Podcast #MissionPossible #TheFireWatch

Regrets and Self-Judgment w/ Special Guest Modesto De La O

Join renowned mind-body doctor Martin Rossman, MD, DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret), and this month's special guest Modesto "Mo" De La O in an empowering discussion. Delve into the profound journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and resilience-building as they explore crucial topics such as overcoming regrets, battling self-judgment, and mastering the art of forgiveness. Discover actionable strategies for military transition, post-service personal growth, and holistic health practices tailored for veterans. Tune in for transformative discussions on transitioning strategies, mindset mastery, and the power of holistic approaches in fostering veterans' resilience and flourishing.👉 Sign up for the Mission Possible program here: https://www.dvnf.org/mind-body-spirit-course/📌 Join the Conversation:We invite you to share your own experiences, insights, and questions in the comments section below. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or simply interested in the topics discussed, your input is valuable to our community.Don't forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our latest discussions and videos on veteran wellness, resilience, and holistic health.#PTSD #veterans #MissionPossible #foxhole #MentalHealth #Forgiveness #resilience #regrets