DVNF Mission Possible Podcast

About DVNF Mission Possible Podcast

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.

Publisher

MissionPossible

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

25 Apr 2024

Latest episode

17 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Aug 2026

   What Happens to Military Working Dogs After Service? | Warrior Dog Foundation

   Military, contract, and law enforcement working K9s perform demanding jobs, but retirement is not always simple.In this episode of Operation Mission Possible, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret.) and CEO of Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF), speaks with former U.S. Navy SEAL and Warrior Dog Foundation founder Mike Ritland about what it takes to give these dogs a safe and dignified life after service.Mike explains how accepting two retired Special Operations K9s with no other placement options led to the creation of Warrior Dog Foundation. Today, the organization provides specialized rehabilitation, carefully considered rehoming opportunities, and lifelong sanctuary care when adoption is not a safe option.Their conversation explores the demanding roles working K9s perform, the physical and behavioral challenges some experience after service, the expertise required to care for them safely, and the careful process used to determine whether a dog can be placed in a new home. Mike also discusses the Home with Handler program, which helps former handlers create an appropriate environment to retire their K9s at home.Mike and Joe also reflect on purpose after military service and how finding a mission larger than oneself can help shape the transition to civilian life.During the episode, DVNF awards $20,000 in unrestricted support to Warrior Dog Foundation and commits to continuing that support next year.Learn more about Warrior Dog Foundation:https://warriordogfoundation.org/Read more about the Operation Mission Possible Podcast:https://www.dvnf.org/podcast/#DVNF #OperationMissionPossible #OMP #WarriorDogFoundation #MilitaryWorkingDogs #WorkingK9s #Veteran #Dogs #ptsd

2. 

   5 Aug 2026

   StableStrides: Horses, Connection, and a New Mission After Service

   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:https://stablestrides.org/Access more episodes of the Operation Mission Possible (OMP) Podcast:https://www.dvnf.org/podcast/#StableStrides #DVNF #OperationMissionPossible #Veterans #MilitaryFamilies #equinetherapy #AdaptiveRiding #AirForce

3. 

   1 Aug 2026

   From 4 Feet Away, The Horse Can See Right into Your Soul

   Col. John Mayer (Ret.) from Forged Valor talks with DVNF's Joseph VanFonda USMC SgtMaj (Ret.) about the need for veterans they help to be at peace with a "happy heart" before they can work with horses.#ForgedValor #DVNF #happyheart #mentalhealth #veterans

4. 

   29 Jun 2026

   How Slice of Charity Is Helping Feed Veterans

   In this episode of Operation Mission Possible, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret.) and CEO of Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF), sits down with Anthony Supa, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Slice of Charity.Anthony shares how a small Toys for Tots fundraiser at his pizzeria grew into Slice of Charity, a nonprofit built around community, service, and helping people through food. What began with a few dozen people gathering at a restaurant has grown into large-scale events and a mission to provide meals for veterans, military families, children, and others facing hardship.The conversation also highlights Slice of Charity’s upcoming effort to provide thousands of meals to veterans during the week of July 4th. As Anthony explains, the need grew far beyond what his team originally expected, with thousands of veterans requesting support.During the episode, DVNF awarded $22,000 to Slice of Charity to help provide meals for veterans and support the additional staff and resources needed to carry out the effort.This conversation explores service after the uniform, food insecurity, community partnerships, and what can happen when veteran-serving organizations work together toward the same mission.Learn more about Slice of Charity: https://sliceofcharity.org/Access more episodes of the Operation Mission Possible (OMP) Podcast: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast#SliceOfCharity #DVNF #Veterans #OperationMissionPossible #Podcast #MarineCorps #FoodInsecurity #VeteranSupport #CommunitySupport

5. 

   22 Apr 2026

   From Battlefields to Horseback: Making cowboys out of American Heroes w/Forged Valor

   What does real healing look like for a combat veteran? Col. John Mayer (Ret.) and cowboy-turned-counselor Mo Smith believe the answer is found on horseback, on a working ranch, and around a campfire, not just in a clinic.In this episode, Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) & CEO of DVNF sits down with the co-founders of Forged Valor to explore how a cutting horse competition in 2011 sparked a movement to restore purpose in veterans who've lost their way. Mo opens up about his own personal breaking point and the moment he chose to stop taking and start giving.Col. Mayer shares the story behind why he hugs every Marine he meets, rooted in a loss on the streets of Baghdad. And Joseph reflects on what it means to go from Sergeant Major to cowboy and why that journey mirrors what so many veterans need.Learn more about Forged Valor: https://www.forgedvalor.org/Access more episodes of the Operation Mission Possible (OMP) Podcast: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast#ForgedValor #DVNF #Veterans #OperationMissionPossible #Podcast #HorseTherapy #MarineCorps #VeteranMentalHealth #WoundedWarriors #ResiliencyForVeterans

6. 

   6 Nov 2025

   Flow Over Fiction: Me, Myself, and I w/Dr. Marty & Joe

   Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda explore the impact of social media and stress on veterans and first responders, introducing practical mind-body tools and the DVNF's Mission Possible course in this interview.

7. 

   16 May 2025

   Beyond the Battlefield: Healing America’s Hidden Heroes w/Special Guest Eric D. Thomas

   For Army veteran Eric D. Thomas, the fight didn’t end after deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. After returning home, he encountered the same frustrating gaps in care that leave so many veterans and first responders behind. Instead of turning away, he stepped in—and founded the CJ3 Foundation to stand in that gap.In this powerful episode, Dr. Marty Rossman and Joseph VanFonda, USMC SgtMaj (Ret) & CEO of DVNF speak with Eric about his military career, the pain that led to CJ3’s creation, and the mission that now fuels his life: serving those who’ve served us.Together, they explore CJ3’s four pillars—advocacy, mental wellness, service dogs, and outdoor retreats—and the deep personal commitment behind them. Eric also opens up about his own journey through trauma and healing, and what keeps him going when the weight of it all feels too heavy.Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or someone who believes in the power of second chances and service-driven purpose, this conversation will move you—and may just help someone you care about.🔗 Learn more about the CJ3 Foundation: https://cj3foundation.org🎙 Access more episodes of the Mission Possible Podcast: https://www.dvnf.org/podcast#CJ3Foundation #Veterans #MissionPossiblePodcast #DVNF #CombatVeterans #ServiceDogs #FirstResponders #VeteranSupport #HealingThroughService

8. 

   15 Apr 2025

   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”

9. 

   12 Feb 2025

   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

10. 

    23 Dec 2024

    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

11. 

    8 Nov 2024

    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

12. 

    12 Oct 2024

    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

13. 

    17 Sept 2024

    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

14. 

    13 Aug 2024

    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

15. 

    9 Jul 2024

    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

16. 

    4 Jun 2024

    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

17. 

    8 May 2024

    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

18. 

    25 Apr 2024

    Empowering Veteran Stories, Military Transition, Life Challenges | Mission Possible Podcast

    Welcome to the Veterans Podcast 'Mission Possible'- a space dedicated to sharing and empowering the voices of those who have served. In each episode, we dive deep into the stories of military veterans who have transitioned to civilian life, facing and overcoming various life challenges along the way. 👉 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

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 15 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

29

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.