NFL Player, Founder of Adaptive Training Foundation, and Idaho Alumnus: David Vobora (Pod #022)

Former NFL Player and Founder of the Adaptive Training Foundation, David Vobora, opens up in his conversation with BVH. From his identity crisis and struggles with addiction after leaving the NFL to rediscovering his purpose and passion by providing physical fitness training in the gym for military veterans and civilians with physical disabilities, David covers it all while letting his drive and passion shine. You’re in for a great listen with this one!  

To learn more about Adaptive Training Foundation and David Vobora’s work:

SUBSCRIBE TO THE MISSION43 PODCAST

More M43 Podcasts
From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)
From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we talk with Nick Johnson, an Army veteran, Military Spouse, and member of the Mission43 Employment team. Nick shares stories from his personal life including his journey of joining the Army Airborne and the struggles he’s faced (and overcame) while transitioning back to civilian life. Nick opens up about his mental health struggles and how counseling and support networks played a key role in his recovery. The discussion highlights Mission43’s holistic approach to veteran support, focusing on employment, education, and building strong networks. Nick is also passionate about connecting veterans and military spouses with Idaho employers, helping them navigate the job market and building successful lives in Idaho after the military. Listen in and learn some valuable lessons from Nick’s jump back into civilian life.

Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military: Stephanie Toomey-Johnson (POD#059)
Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military: Stephanie Toomey-Johnson (POD#059)
From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)
From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Cole Petrie, the newly appointed CEO of Higher Ground. Higher Ground is a nonprofit organization based in Sun Valley, Idaho, dedicated to supporting children and adults with developmental, cognitive, or physical disabilities. They also serve military veterans and first responders with visible and invisible disabilities. The secret to their success is outdoor recreational therapy to assist the healing process and unlock every individual's potential! Cole, a former Navy SEAL, shares his journey from military service to leading Higher Ground and enhancing the quality of life through therapeutic recreation and education.

Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)
Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, Dan and Alison (Mission43's Education Director), sit down with Shannon Kerr and Heather Grayson from the College of Western Idaho (CWI) to discuss a new partnership aimed at supporting military veterans as they transition back to civilian life. This partnership offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Leadership and Management, primarily targeting E5 and above but open to all, including military spouses and civilians. The program leverages military leadership training, translating it into college credits, and allows veterans to complete the degree in as few as five classes (15 credits). With flexible learning options, dedicated support staff, and full scholarships available, the program is designed to be accessible and cost-effective, preserving GI Bill benefits for future use. CWI's community-oriented approach ensures personalized support and strong emotional and social backing for veterans. This initiative provides a clear pathway to higher education and better job opportunities!

Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)
Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Heather Lopez, a dynamic leader in physical therapy, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow, and the director of the Challenge Athletes Foundation (CAF) - Idaho. Dr. Lopez shares her journey from growing up in a small town in Michigan, to serving as an Army physical therapist, to transitioning out of the Army and into a civilian career. Learn about her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how she now leads CAF - Idaho as they support adaptive athletes and veterans. Discover the powerful synergy between Mission43 and CAF - Idaho and how they work together to create a community of support and resilience. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with personal stories and professional insights.

Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)
Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)

Join us for episode #055 of the Mission43 Podcast as we dive into a compelling conversation with Michele Bradfield, a military spouse and Mission43 Leaders Fellow whose transition story is as inspiring as it is instructive. Michele shares her experiences navigating the complexities of life after the military, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of redefining her identity and career in civilian life. Throughout the episode, Michele opens up about the power of positivity, the importance of community, and her strategic use of therapy and personal reflection to find her path forward. Whether you're a veteran, a military family member, or anyone facing significant life changes, Michele's story offers valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and crafting your own narrative. Tune in to discover how embracing your journey can lead to profound personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.

Find the Right Opportunities After Military Retirement: Justin Haynes (POD#054)
Find the Right Opportunities After Military Retirement: Justin Haynes (POD#054)
Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)
Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)

In this inspiring episode #053 of the Mission43 Podcast, we delve into the remarkable story of Tyler Merryman, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow and an Air Force veteran whose battle with cancer and transition from military to civilian life unfolds a story of unwavering positivity and purpose. Facing a medical retirement just shy of a 20-year career, Tyler's journey is a testament to the power of resilience. His passion for teaching welding and advocating for financial peace allowed him to transition from a life of military service to one of community service. Listen in as Tyler shares invaluable insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of community, and the pursuit of a fulfilling post-service lifestyle. Join us as we explore Tyler's inspiring path from battle to the anvil…where he forges a new legacy of hope, strength, and generosity.

Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)
Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)

In episode #052, we sit down with Beth Sumner, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow, and Mission43 PMP Certification Course graduate. From her days as a cadet at the US Air Force Academy to her distinguished career serving on active duty and in the guard, Beth's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She recently retired as Colonel, and her time spent in squadron and group command positions shaped her perspective and leadership style. But beyond her professional accomplishments, Beth cherishes her roles as a wife and mother above all else. Join us as Beth shares her experiences, from meeting her husband during their active-duty days at Mountain Home Air Force Base to navigating the challenges of motherhood, including a harrowing brush with death during their time in Alaska, where they welcomed twins into the world. Beth's transition from military service to civilian life wasn't without its struggles. Wrestling with her identity after leaving the military, she found support from her mother and fellow spouses’ groups on base.  Today, Beth's passion for adventure knows no bounds as she explores the great outdoors of Idaho through running, hiking, and mountain biking. Her journey exemplifies the resilience and determination of military veterans and military spouses who are transitioning to civilian life.

World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)
World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)

The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse is a world-class, 7-acre multipurpose campus located in Boise, Idaho. It features a gym, pool, climbing walls, living quarters, hyperbaric treatment center, and much more. Keeping the campus running so it can serve the members of Mission43 and the Challenged Athletes Foundation of Idaho is a big job! Enter Travis Rolstad, a Mission43 member and 20-year veteran of the US Air Force Civil Engineering squadron. Travis has a vast knowledge of maintaining some of our nation’s most important infrastructure assets and his role as the Campus and Facilities Manager will be vital to ensuring the mission of the Fieldhouse never stops. Listen in as Travis talks about connecting with Mission43 prior to retirement, and how that led to a smooth transition back to civilian life and into his current role at the Fieldhouse.

Top