Rally Point: Washington

About Rally Point: Washington

Rally Point: Washington is the go-to podcast for veterans, active duty service members, and military families connected to Washington state. Hosted by Washington Veterans Vote, each episode features candid, solutions-focused conversations with veterans, military-connected leaders, and experts shaping the future of our community. Grounded in a nonpartisan mission, we break down policy, spotlight trusted resources, and elevate voices driving real change—so you can stay informed, engaged, and ready for what’s next.

Publisher

Washington Veterans Vote

Category

business · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 Feb 2026

Latest episode

22 May 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 May 2026

   Know Your Benefits: What Every Washington Veteran Needs to Know About VSOs

   You've heard it in transition — go see a service officer, file a claim — but what does that actually mean, and where do you even start? This week, Paul sits down with his friend Todd Gruchalla, a 32-year Navy veteran and one of the most experienced Veterans Service Officer (VSO) professionals in the Western United States. Todd breaks down exactly what a VSO does, how to find one, what to bring, and — critically — who to avoid. Whether you just got out, have been out for 20 years, or are helping an elderly parent navigate the VA system, this episode is your roadmap. What You'll Learn What a VSO actually does (hint: it's a lot more than claims) Why VSO services are 100% free The biggest misconceptions veterans have when they walk through the door How to start a claim the right way with an "intent to file" What to do if your service-connected condition has gotten worse The "claim shark" warning every veteran and family member needs to hear How Washington state compares to the rest of the country for veteran support The VA form every family member assisting a veteran needs to know about (VA Form 0845) Key Resources Mentioned Find a VSO in Washington State: (https://dva.wa.gov/resources)wdva.wa.gov (http://wdva.wa.gov) — search by county, state, or VSO organization Department of Washington VFW: (https://vfwwa.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?pid=84307)vfwwa.org (http://vfwwa.org) → Resources → Service Officers VA Form 0845: va.gov (http://va.gov) — Authorization to Disclose Personal Information to a Third Party (essential for family members assisting veterans) Episode Timestamps 0:00 — Welcome & intro to Todd Gruchalla 3:46 — What is a VSO and why does it matter? 8:26 — Biggest misconceptions veterans have walking in the door 12:03 — What VSOs help with beyond claims: healthcare, taxes, education, housing, and more 15:34 — County service officers and the benefits unique to Washington 17:50 — How to prepare for your first VSO appointment 18:44 — What is an "intent to file" and why it matters 20:45 — Upgrading a claim when your condition has gotten worse 22:20 — Temporary 100% rating during surgery and recovery 23:06 — VA Form 0845: What family members need to know 31:06 — Where to find a VSO near you About Rally Point: Washington Rally Point: Washington is a podcast by Washington Veterans Vote — a grassroots effort focused on advocacy and voter engagement for Washington's more than 500,000 veterans, 500,000 military and veteran family members, and 73,000+ active-duty, Guard, and Reserve personnel. Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rally-point-washington/id1873437236) Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/7M1XDQyitp6LrPtqgMRaet) YouTube  (https://www.youtube.com/@waveteransvote) Website (https://www.waveterans.org/)

2. 

   8 May 2026

   Empowering Veterans to Lead in Washington State Politics

   In this episode of Rally Point: Washington, Andy Stevens discusses the vital role veterans can play in shaping local communities in Washington through civic service and running for public office. Whether you're a veteran considering a political start or know someone who should, this episode provides motivation, practical guidance, and resources to get involved. Key topics: The unique leadership qualities veterans bring to public office, including decision-making under pressure and mission focus The importance of veteran representation in local, state, and community decision-making How nonpartisan local races can be an accessible entry point for veterans Practical steps for veterans to consider running for office using resources from the Washington Secretary of State The power of being asked: encouraging veterans to support peers in running for office Washington Veterans Vote's four priorities: employment, veteran-friendly business climate, safe communities, and veteran support services The current demographic significance of veterans and military families in Washington State Timestamps: 00:00 - Why veterans are uniquely suited for public office 00:31 - The impact of veteran leadership in politics 00:41 - Core qualities: leadership under pressure, mission focus, real-world experience, and credibility 01:07 - Enduring trust and nonpartisan advantages for veteran candidates 01:52 - Imagining local leadership from city councils to state legislatures 02:52 - Practical advice: How to run using resources from the Secretary of State 03:00 - The importance of taking action now; you are ready 03:34 - How to support fellow veterans to run for office 04:21 - Washington Veterans Vote’s mission and priorities 05:02 - The significance of veteran presence in shaping state policies 05:23 - Resources and next steps for aspiring candidates 05:48 - Closing and encouragement to stay engaged Resources & Links: Washington Secretary of State 2026 State Candidates Guide (https://www.sos.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2026-02/StateCandidatesGuide2026.pdf) Washington Public Disclosure Candidate Resources (https://www.pdc.wa.gov/registration-reporting/candidates-committees) 2026 Elections Calendar (https://www2.sos.wa.gov/elections/calendar_list.aspx?y=2026) Connect with Washington Veterans Vote: waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org)

3. 

   22 Apr 2026

   8 Bills, One Short Session: What Washington State Just Passed for Veterans & Military Families

   Rally Point: Washington | Episode 8 "Bills, Wins, and What's Next: The 2026 Legislative Session Breakdown" The Washington State Legislature wrapped its short session last month — and the Veterans Legislation Coalition (VLC) was in the room making sure veterans didn't get left out of the conversation. In this episode, host Paul Herrera sits down with Matt Schillingburg, Vice Chair of the VLC, to break down what actually passed, what got left on the table, and what's coming next. The VLC represents 18 veterans organizations across Washington state — advocating for half a million veterans and their families in Olympia so you don't have to go it alone. In this episode, we cover: VAC Expansion (HB/SB 1541) — Modifies the membership makeup of the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee, which advises the Governor and the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs Dietary License Compact (HB 2088) — Military spouses can now transfer their dietary license when they PCS to Washington without starting from scratch Military Code & Victim Rights (HB 2417) — Aligning Washington National Guard protections with federal UCMJ standards Military Families Education (SB 2534) — Families can now enroll kids in school and transfer transcripts 90 days before a PCS move without a confirmed address Veteran Benefits Access (SB 5420) — Expanding which uniformed service corps qualify for pension, retirement, and veteran benefits in Washington Civil Service Employment (SB 5827) — Veterans can now apply for civil service jobs with their earned preference points before separation and receiving DD-214; now only need a letter from a commander; must turn in DD-214 within 30 days of separation Civil Air Patrol (SB 6046) — CAP is now officially under the Washington Military Department, putting a powerful disaster response tool in the governor's toolbox Voting Services (SB 6035) — Electronic ballot access for overseas voters, voters with disabilities, and tribal members on reservations What didn't make it: The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans The action this week: Know a veteran or military family who could benefit from any of these bills? Share this episode with them. Legislation shapes lives — and staying informed is how we stay in the fight. About the Veterans Legislative Coalition: The VLC is a nonpartisan coalition of 18 veterans organizations representing Washington's half million veterans, their families, and active duty personnel. They testify, advocate, and push for veterans in Olympia every session. Learn more: waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org) Rally Point: Washington is produced by Washington Veterans Vote. Find us on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

4. 

   11 Apr 2026

   Healing in Nature: Veteran Reintegration & Mental Wellness | Rally Point: Washington

   Explore how Cassie Glaspey, an Army veteran and founder of Mother RUCKer, utilizes nature, rucking, breathwork, and community engagement to promote healing and resilience among veterans. This episode offers practical tools, inspiring stories, and accessible outdoor activities to support mental health and reconnect with oneself outside traditional therapy. In this episode: Cassie’s military background and how her service shaped her approach to healing The role of rucking in physical and mental recovery, and tips for beginners How nature-based practices like Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) restore nervous system balance Breathing techniques and movement practices to reduce anxiety and trauma effects Personal stories of trauma, survivor guilt, and finding purpose through community Accessible outdoor activities for veterans on both sides of Washington state Practical advice for families to support veterans’ mental health The importance of reconnecting with lost parts of the soul through outdoor mindfulness Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview 01:23 - Introducing Cassie Glaspey and her community-based healing approach 02:48 - Cassie’s military background and transition story 04:56 - Navigating PTSD, anxiety, and trauma after service 07:42 - Military experiences in Iraq and the impact of war on perception of home 10:12 - Survivor’s guilt and the importance of community and healing 12:44 - Why Cassie founded Mother Rucker and the power of rucking 13:37 - The physical and emotional benefits of rucking for trauma recovery 15:01 - How nature and Shinrin-yoku facilitate nervous system regulation 16:48 - Tools for hypervigilance and trauma triggers, including breathwork and movement 18:43 - Supporting veterans and families through open communication and therapy 24:04 - Practical action steps: grounding, breathing, and letting go of unhelpful beliefs 25:31 - Breathing techniques for stress, anxiety, and physical readiness 29:14 - Outdoor organizations and events for veteran engagement Links: Mother Rucker (http://www.keeponruckin.org) — Connect with Cassie and her community healing programs Outdoors for Our Heroes (https://outdoorsforourheroes.org/) — Outdoor adventures for disabled veterans Heroes Homestead (https://www.heroeshomestead.org/) — Veteran outdoor mentorship and events Irreverent Warriors Spokane Chapter (https://irreverentwarriors.donordrive.com/Spokane) — Veteran hiking events and community gatherings Get outside and engage in a simple ruck, walk, or mindfulness walk in nature — whether in your neighborhood, park, or trail to ground, restore, and reconnect. Remember: Your mental health toolkit is accessible everywhere.

5. 

   27 Mar 2026

   The Next Mission: Empowering Washington Veterans Through Community & Connection w/ A Hero's Promise

   Summary: This episode features a candid discussion with Alan Acosta, Army veteran and executive director at A Hero's Promise, about supporting veterans and military families through community programs and volunteerism opportunities to connect veterans with the community. We explore veteran transition challenges, community engagement, and innovative programs making a difference in Washington state. Chapters: 00:38 - Alan Acosta’s background and transition story from military to nonprofit work 01:34 - Veterans’ ongoing desire to serve through community projects 02:29 - Introduction to A Hero’s Promise and its mission in Washington state 03:29 - Alan’s military career and transition experiences 04:54 - Challenges during military-to-civilian transition and personal healing journey 08:13 - The importance of community engagement and mental health support 12:01 - Origin of A Hero’s Promise 13:24 - Programs offered by Heroes Promise: education, outdoor activities, emergency response 17:34 - Fish and wildlife program details and community impact 20:02 - A Hero’s Promise’s emergency management initiatives and veteran involvement 21:55 - How veterans can get involved through volunteering and skill-sharing 23:48 - Advice for veterans seeking purpose post-service and exploring new opportunities 30:48 - Resources for mental health and suicide prevention: LEARN Saves Lives, PAUSE Lethal Means Safely, Combatting Stigma, Veterans Crisis Line 35:08 - Legislative highlight: Global War on Terror Memorial at the Washington State Capitol 39:08 - Summary of suicide prevention programs and trainings available through Washington VA 40:38 - The importance of knowing and sharing crisis resources like 988 and online support 41:32 - Action of the week: volunteer locally, mentor, or support veteran organizations Resources & Links: A Hero's Promise (https://www.aherospromise.org) A Hero’s Promise Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/AHerospromiseofficial/) Washington Department of Veterans Affairs suicide prevention programs (https://www.dva.wa.gov/sp#training-registration) Veterans Crisis Line (https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/) – Dial 988 then press 1 Washington Legislature House Bill 2514 (Global War on Terror Memorial) (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2514&Year=2023) Sign up for our email list at waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org) to be the first to know about new episodes. Follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote (http://www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote) www.instagram.com/waveteransvote (http://www.instagram.com/waveteransvote) www.x.com/WAVetsVote (http://www.x.com/WAVetsVote)

6. 

   12 Mar 2026

   How Veterans are Becoming Franchise Entrepreneurs

   Summary: This episode features veteran entrepreneur and consultant Curt Maier, sharing insights on transitioning from military service to business ownership, focusing on franchising, funding options, and leveraging military skills for success. Keywords: Veteran entrepreneurship, franchising, SBA loans, military transition, Washington State, veteran resources, business startup, veteran success stories Key Topics: Military skills transfer to business Entrepreneurship for veterans Franchise opportunities for veterans Funding options including SBA loans Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Veteran Entrepreneurship 01:47 Curt Maier’s Introduction 02:25 Curt Maier's Military Background and Transition 11:30 Understanding Entrepreneurship for Veterans 12:03 Three Options for Veteran Entrepreneurship 12:30 What is Franchising? 16:29 How Military Skills Transfer to Franchising 19:00 Curt’s First Franchise Opportunity 19:35 Success in the First Year of Business 20:20 It’s Never Too Late to Start 20:35 Finding the Right Franchise Fit 21:06 The Veteran’s Business Outreach Center 22:40 Types of Franchises & Consultants 23:16 Examples of Franchises Veterans Have Chosen Recently 24:45 Biggest Misconception About Owning a Franchise 26:15 Funding Your Franchise 27:20 Franchise Fee Discounts for Veterans 28:00 First Steps Toward Franchises 28:35 Finding a Franchise Consultant 31:00 Military Transition Tips 33:15 Corporate Attitudes Towards Veterans 36:35 Resource: Veterans Business Outreach Centers 39:11 Voices from the Field: Submissions Open 41:02 Conclusion and Resources for Veterans Resources & Links: Curt Maier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtmmaier/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtmmaier/) Small Business Administration Veterans Business Outreach Centers: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/veterans-business-outreach-centers-vboc (https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/veterans-business-outreach-centers-vboc) Business Impact NW: https://businessimpactnw.org/veterans-business-outreach-center/ (https://businessimpactnw.org/veterans-business-outreach-center/) Sign up for our email list at waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org) to be the first to know about new episodes. Follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote (http://www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote) www.instagram.com/waveteransvote (http://www.instagram.com/waveteransvote) www.x.com/WAVetsVote (http://www.x.com/WAVetsVote)

7. 

   27 Feb 2026

   Special Update: Veterans Legislation in Washington

   Summary This episode gives an update on bills impacting veterans and military families in Washington. Visit www.leg.wa.gov (http://www.leg.wa.gov) and search by the bill number for the latest status. Key Topics: Legislative session Bills affecting veterans Time Stamps: 00:00 Legislative Overview 02:56 Bills Impacting Veterans 06:13 Stalled Legislation 09:03 Advocacy and Community Support Resources & Links: House Bill 1073 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1073&Year=2025): National Guard retention House Bill 2088 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2088&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Dietitian licensure compact House Bill 2417 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2417&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Code of military justice Senate Bill 5901 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5901&Year=2025&Initiative=false): School construction assistance House Bill 2534 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2534&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Military child enrollment in public schools Senate Bill 5827 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5827&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Preference points for state civic service Senate Bill 6046 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=6046&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Washington division of civil air patrol Senate Bill 6035 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=6035&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Electronic ballot portal House Bill 2514 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2514&Year=2025&Initiative=false): GWOT monument Senate Bill 5907 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5907&Year=2025&Initiative=false)/House Bill 2099 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2099&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Early childhood education House Bill 1165 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=1165&Year=2025&Initiative=false)/Senate Bill 5398 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5398&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Property tax relief Visit our website: www.waveterans.org (http://www.waveterans.org) Follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote (http://www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote) www.instagram.com/waveteransvote (http://www.instagram.com/waveteransvote) www.x.com/WAVetsVote (http://www.x.com/WAVetsVote)

8. 

   25 Feb 2026

   How PNWVETS Inspires Veteran Community in Washington

   In this episode of Rally Point: Washington, host Paul Herrera and guest host Andy Stevens engage with Josh Wheeldon and Josh Penner, co-founders of PNWVETS. They discuss the importance of community for veterans transitioning to civilian life, the challenges faced during this transition, and the mission of PNWVETS to connect veterans and civilians through personal connections. The conversation highlights personal military experiences, the significance of building a supportive network, and practical advice for young veterans navigating their post-service journey. Key Topics: Relationships formed in the military Transitioning to civilian life Community engagement Local veteran resources and support Reaching out and connecting with others veterans COVID-19’s impact on the desire for in-person connections Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Rally Point Washington 02:58 Meet the Co-Founders of PNWVETS 05:56 Military Backgrounds and Personal Journeys 09:03 Challenges of Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 11:49 Advice for Young Veterans 15:09 The Genesis of PNWVETS 17:51 Connecting Veterans: The Role of PNWVETS 21:10 Engagement Strategies and Community Building 24:02 Overcoming Hesitation to Join Veteran Meetups 27:10 The Impact of COVID on Veteran Connections 30:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts 32:54 Policy in Plain Language: Senate Bill 5827 36:09 Resource Spotlight: Lifetime Disabled Veteran Pass 39:06 Voices from the Field: Winter Activities in Washington 40:01 Action of the Week: Growing Veteran Connections Resources & Links: PNWVETS Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/1435084746738238 (http://facebook.com/groups/1435084746738238) PNWVETS Website: pnwvets.com/ (http://pnwvets.com/) Sign up for our email list at waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org) to be the first to know about new episodes. Follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote (http://www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote) www.instagram.com/waveteransvote (http://www.instagram.com/waveteransvote) www.x.com/WAVetsVote (http://www.x.com/WAVetsVote)

9. 

   18 Feb 2026

   How a Coalition of Veterans’ Voices Helps Shape Washington Legislation

   Discover how the Veterans Legislative Coalition is advocating for Washington’s veteran and military communities through legislative efforts. This episode features insights from Jerry Fugit, chair of the Veterans Legislative Coalition. While not all of these bills have made it past some key legislative cutoffs for this session, it’s helpful to understand the types of legislation at play during a typical session. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Washington state's legislative session and veteran advocacy focus 02:01 - History and mission of the Veterans Legislative Coalition 03:29 - Licensure compact for spouses in healthcare and education 04:27 - Supporting military members in transitioning to civilian professions 05:18 - Global War on Terror memorial at capitol grounds 06:12 - Property tax relief legislation based on VA disability 08:11 - National Guard education and employment benefits 08:40 - Initiatives to improve veterans’ employment and discharge documentation 09:37 - The legislative process: from bill introduction to signing 12:22 - Companion bills 13:02 - Challenges of passing bills within a 60-day session 17:39 - Closing remarks and podcast subscription info Resources & Links: House Bill 2514 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2514&Year=2025): Global War on Terror (GWOT) memorial on the state capitol campus Senate Bill 5398 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5398&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Property tax relief for veterans with disabilities House Bill 1073 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1073&Year=2025): Washington National Guard retention efforts House Bill 1016 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1016&Initiative=false&Year=2025): Tax credits for hiring veterans or military spouses Senate Bill 5827 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5827&Year=2025): Preference points for transitioning servicemembers to state civil service Military Voting-Related Bills House Bill 2064 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=2064&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Electronic ballot portal House Bill 2572 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2572&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Electronic ballot portal Senate Bill 5017 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5017&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Military and overseas voting standards and processes Senate Bill 6035 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=6035&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Electronic ballot portal House Bill 2470 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2740&Year=2019) / Senate Bill 5901 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?Year=2025&BillNumber=5901): On-base school construction

10. 

    11 Feb 2026

    The Power of Unified Veteran State Advocacy

    Discover how Washington's veteran community is shaping state legislation to support veterans and military families. In this episode, we explore veterans' advocacy efforts, key bills, and ways you can get involved to support your fellow veterans and their families. Key Topics: Introduction to Rally Point: Washington Personal journey of Paul Herrera in military and civilian service The role and impact of the Veterans Legislative Coalition How veterans can unite to influence legislation Overview of recent bills: supporting veteran benefits and services The importance of nonpartisan advocacy and bipartisan cooperation Steps for veterans to engage with legislation through comment, testimony, and emails How to find your legislator and use the legislative website to stay informed Stories from veterans across Washington about community involvement and dreams for 2026 Tips for staying active in the veteran community and volunteering opportunities Resources & Links: Washington State Legislature (https://leg.wa.gov/): Search bills and find your legislator Senate Bill 5907 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5907&Year=2025&Initiative=false): Expands access to early childhood education House Bill 2099 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2099&Chamber=House&Year=2025): Expands access to early childhood education House Bill 2514 (https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2514&Year=2025): Establishes global war on terror (GWOT) memorial on the capitol campus Washington Department of Children, Youth & Families: ECEAP Program (https://dcyf.wa.gov/services/earlylearning-childcare/find-child-care/eceap) Washington Working Families Child Care Income Ranges (https://dcyf.wa.gov/services/earlylearning-childcare/getting-help/wccc) How to Contact Your Legislator (https://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder) How to Comment on a Bill (https://leg.wa.gov/bills-meetings-and-session/bills/how-to-comment-on-a-bill/) How to Testify at a Committee Meeting (https://leg.wa.gov/bills-meetings-and-session/session/how-to-testify-at-a-committee-meeting/) Sign up for our email list at waveterans.org (http://waveterans.org) to be the first to know about new episodes. Follow us on social media: www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote (http://www.facebook.com/washingtonveteransvote) www.instagram.com/waveteransvote (http://www.instagram.com/waveteransvote) www.x.com/WAVetsVote (http://www.x.com/WAVetsVote)

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