Mission43
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a ...

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Kelly Cottle, a South African native, former collegiate swimmer, military spouse, and passionate advocate for veterans and their families. Kelly shares her unique journey from immigrating to the U.S. to becoming a dedicated social worker supporting military communities. She opens up about meeting her husband, a combat-wounded Marine, just months after his injury, and navigating the challenges of military life, caregiving, and personal growth. Kelly discusses her work with Mission43 where she is focused on supporting veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders (SUD). This conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of community, communication, and finding purpose through adversity.

Whether you’re a military spouse, veteran, or someone passionate about mental health advocacy, Kelly’s story is sure to motivate you.

Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)
Mission43
Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: ...

Join us on this inspiring episode of the Mission43 Podcast as we welcome our newest team member, former Army Ranger Dustin Alger! Dustin’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. A veteran of the 75th Ranger Regiment with multiple combat deployments under his belt, Dustin faced the tough challenges of transitioning to civilian life. But through an unexpected turn, he discovered the healing power of fly fishing—a therapy that not only helped him but ignited a passion to assist fellow veterans battling PTSD. Dive into this episode to hear how Dustin turned his personal journey into a mission to uplift others, the mentorship that shaped his path, and how Mission43 continues to empower military members and their families as they navigate life in Idaho after the military.

Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)
Mission43
Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden ...

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we sit down with Isaac Beldon, Iraq War veteran and founder of the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA), to explore his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership.

Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden (POD#062)
Mission43
A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James ...

In this episode of the Mission43 podcast, former Marine and cybersecurity entrepreneur James McCarter shares his inspiring journey from military service to founding his own company, Shadowscape. James opens up about the challenges veterans often face when transitioning to civilian life, including finding purpose, managing lingering anger, and carving out a meaningful career outside of the military. James describes his path into the cybersecurity industry, the obstacles he’s overcome as a startup founder, and the grit required to build a business from the ground up. James also speaks to the value of community, describing how he initially approached Mission43 with skepticism but ultimately found it to be a supportive network for veterans and entrepreneurship. He also discusses the importance of family and quality time, while sharing hard-earned wisdom on resilience, ambition, and defining success on one’s own terms.

A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)
Mission43
From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick ...

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.

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

Boise Entrepreneur Seeks to Create Good: Malcolm Brown (POD#044)

Boise Entrepreneur Seeks to Create Good: Malcolm Brown (POD#044)

In Podcast #044 we welcome Malcolm Brown, US Air Force veteran and entrepreneur, to the studio. Malcolm is the founder of the Boise startup WeLoLo (We Love Local), whose mission is to inspire a collective sense of community using the classic concept of paying it forward. WeLoLo is all about the desire to "create good" and reimagine the potential of generosity at the smallest level. Listen in as Malcolm takes us through his transition from active duty military, to reservist, to civilian life. Malcolm opens up about the challenges he faced during his transition, the lessons he learned, and how his military experience influenced his entrepreneurial endeavors. His passion for serving his community and supporting local businesses runs deep, and now he is on a pathway to success in the next chapter of his life.

Idaho’s Military Spouse Community: Amy Gilbert (POD#043)

Idaho’s Military Spouse Community: Amy Gilbert (POD#043)

We officially made it to podcast #43…our favorite number for obvious reasons…and for this momentous occasion, we welcome Amy Gilbert to the studio. Amy is a mom, a military spouse, a medical professional, and also the newest member of the Mission43 team. Her military adventure began when she met her husband, Ben, as they were both training for the Marine Corps. As they started their family, she committed to staying home with their kids while Ben entered the Marine Corps and then transitioned to the Army. Through multiple deployments, Amy has kept the home fires burning while also advancing her career. Listen in as she discusses her life as a military spouse and how her passion for the military spouse community has led her to become a team member at Mission43. You won’t want to miss her inspirational story!

Serving Military Spouses: Kelly Kelly (POD#042)

Serving Military Spouses: Kelly Kelly (POD#042)

In Podcast #042 we welcome Kelly Kelly, Serving Spouses Program Manager from Hire Heroes USA, to the studio to talk about helping military spouses find success in the job market. Through her own personal journey as a military spouse, she experienced highs and lows but was able to overcome those challenges with hard work, determination, and the support of Hire Heroes USA. She now has the pleasure of mentoring other military spouses as they search for meaningful employment opportunities. Military spouses face unique challenges when it comes to finding and maintaining employment due to frequent PCS moves, limited job opportunities, and juggling family life with military life. However, they also possess valuable skills such as resilience, adaptability, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking, making them exceptional employees. Listen in as we learn more about Kelly’s journey.

Betting on Yourself: Jade Chase (POD#041)

Betting on Yourself: Jade Chase (POD#041)

In Podcast #041 we welcome Jade Chase, a member of the Mission43 marketing team, to the studio. Jade and his team and 18Ninety Creative have helped build the Mission43 brand and spread it across the great state of Idaho and beyond. In this episode, Jade talks about his role as an Air Force nurse, his struggles with transitioning back to civilian life, and how becoming an entrepreneur allowed him to take control of his professional life and goals. Join us as we explore Jade’s experience of going “all in” at all times!

Education for Advancement: Alison Garrow (POD#040)

Education for Advancement: Alison Garrow (POD#040)

In Podcast #040 we welcome Alison Garrow, Mission43’s Education pillar director, to the studio. Alison assists our members to identify educational and professional development opportunities that will help them build a successful life in Idaho after the military. In this episode, Alison discusses how members can leverage their military experience to pursue a career in cybersecurity. She also discusses SkillBridge, a Department of Defense program that allows service members to gain civilian work experience and training before they transition out of the military. Lastly, we talk about the value of the PMP certification and how it helps people stand out in the job market and earn higher salaries. Join us as we explore the many ways in which veterans and their spouses can access educational resources and programs to help them achieve their goals!

Transition out of the Military Together: Jarrett and Katie Redman (POD#039)

Transition out of the Military Together: Jarrett and Katie Redman (POD#039)

In Podcast #039 we welcome Jarrett and Katie Redman to the studio. Jarrett was a civil affairs officer in the US Army and Katie was a military spouse for their 11 years on active duty. The Redmans decided to make Idaho their home after Jarrett’s military service was over. Since then, they’ve learned to navigate the unknowns of military transition together, as a team. Their personal experiences of re-entering civilian life and civilian employment will inspire you to build a strong community of friends, family, and mentors. Listen in as they provide valuable advice.

The Power of Sharing Your Story: Tony Liles (POD#038)

The Power of Sharing Your Story: Tony Liles (POD#038)

In Podcast #038 we welcome Tony Liles to the studio. Tony spent over 24 years on active duty in the US Army as an aviation professional and is very engaged in our military community. He has multiple combat deployments under his belt and made Idaho his home after the military. His personal experiences with overcoming PTSD and alcohol abuse are truly inspirational, and he discusses how seeking help saved his life and made him a better leader. As he states in the podcast, it's ok to seek help. Listen in as he provides valuable advice.

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Meet our Hosts

Bryan Madden
(4 deployments to Afghanistan)
(Email / LinkedIn)

Dan Nelson
(Deployed to Afghanistan in 2016 and injured in battle in 2017)
(Email / LinkedIn)

Questions, suggestions, or comments?

We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

Employment After the Military: Zach Tibbits (POD#037)

Employment After the Military

In Podcast #037 we welcome Zach Tibbits to the studio. Zach is the new Mission43 Director of Employment and the Idaho Program Manager for Hire Heroes USA. A Marine first and foremost, Zach became a Mission43 member and Hire Heroes USA client shortly after leaving the military. His personal experience of being a client, navigating the employment search after separating from the Marines, and making many mistakes along the way, prepared him to lead the Mission43 Employment team. As he states in the podcast, he is ALWAYS available to discuss best practices in searching for meaningful employment after the military. Listen in as he provides valuable employment advice.

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

Meet our Hosts

Bryan Madden
(4 deployments to Afghanistan)
(Email / LinkedIn)

Dan Nelson
(Deployed to Afghanistan in 2016 and injured in battle in 2017)
(Email / LinkedIn)

Questions, suggestions, or comments?

We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

NFL to Army Veteran: Daryn Colledge

NFL to Army Veteran: Daryn Colledge

In Podcast #034, we sit down with Butch Whiting, CEO and co-founder of Kryptek Outdoor Group, to discuss hunting in Idaho, learn about the origins of the company, and understand what it took to bring the "Battlefield to Backcountry". Kryptek is a global brand and one of the hottest hunting apparel brands to surface in the past few years. Along with his co-founder, Josh Kleghorn, Butch relied on his military background to start the company. Kryptek is proudly based in Eagle, Idaho, where Butch was born and raised. Listen and learn how Butch was able to make Idaho his home after leaving the military.

Kryptek's Battlefield to Backcountry: Butch Whiting

Kryptek's Battlefield to Backcountry: Butch Whiting

In Podcast #034, we sit down with Butch Whiting, CEO and co-founder of Kryptek Outdoor Group, to discuss hunting in Idaho, learn about the origins of the company, and understand what it took to bring the "Battlefield to Backcountry". Kryptek is a global brand and one of the hottest hunting apparel brands to surface in the past few years. Along with his co-founder, Josh Kleghorn, Butch relied on his military background to start the company. Kryptek is proudly based in Eagle, Idaho, where Butch was born and raised. Listen and learn how Butch was able to make Idaho his home after leaving the military.

Serving Adaptive Athletes After the Military: Jenn Skeesick

Serving Adaptive Athletes After the Military: Jenn Skeesick

In Podcast #033, we welcome Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) Idaho Regional Director, Jenn Skeesick, to learn more about CAF and how Mission43 members are finding purpose after the military by volunteering with CAF. Jenn has practiced as a sports and orthopedic physical therapist for over 13 years and has a doctorate degree from Duke University. Her undergraduate degree is in Animal Science from Auburn University where she served as the co-captain of the Equestrian team. Jenn is also a Mission43 Leaders Fellow and a military spouse, as her husband, Anthony, serves with the Idaho Air National Guard. Lastly, Jenn is also an adjunct professor at Boise State and Duke with the hopes of helping guide adult learners as they discover passions and possibilities. Listen to Jenn’s inspiring story as she shares some great stories and talks about the new headquarters from Mission43 and CAF-Idaho (The Idaho Outdoor Field House).

Remembering 9/11: 20 Years of GWOT

Remembering 9/11: 20 Years of GWOT

In Podcast #032, co-hosts Bryan and Dan take a moment to reflect on September 11, 2001. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the terror attacks that transpired on that day. Bryan and Dan also discuss the resulting surge of volunteer military forces, as warfighters from across the United States began to fight the Global War on Terror (GWOT), a war that would last two decades and continues today. Listen in as our co-hosts share personal stories and reflect on the reason we should take time to remember 9/11 every year.

Career Exit Strategy for Military Veterans: Christy Funk

Career Exit Strategy for Military Veterans: Christy Funk

In Podcast #031, we welcome our Employment Pillar Director, Christy Funk, to discuss how active duty, veterans, and military spouses can enhance their employment search before and after they leave the military. Christy retired from the Air Force as a first sergeant and now uses that expertise to advise fellow Mission43 members on their path to meaningful employment. As someone who has already transitioned out of the military and found a civilian career, she shares some great tips so you too can confidently transition out of the military.

Professional development & Education After The military: Alison Garrow

Professional Development & Education After The Military

In Podcast #030, Mission43 Education Pillar Director, Alison Garrow, joins us to discuss the importance of furthering your education and how that can mean more than just earning a college degree. Alison is our local education guru and knows everything about how to get the most out of the GI bill. She also helps Mission43 members navigate other educational opportunities. Whether you are searching for entrepreneur mentorship, skill gap training, or career advancement; she knows the programs available to get you there.

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Questions, suggestions, or comments?

We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

Outstanding Airman of the Year Turned Entrepreneur: Doug Brock (Pod#029)

Outstanding Airman of the Year Turned Entrepreneur: Doug Brock (Pod#029)

In Podcast #029, we welcome Idaho Air National Guard Senior NCO Doug Brock to the studio to discuss the importance of creating a strong personal and professional network. He shares about achievements as Outstanding Airman of the Year (AOY) and the challenges of being a JTAC. Doug talks about his recent deployment, completing Army Ranger school, and the challenges of starting his own business.

M43 Leaders Fellowship Forward: Dawn Hunter & Jason Thomas (Pod#028)

M43 Leaders Fellowship Forward: Dawn Hunter & Jason Thomas (Pod#028)

In Podcast #028, we welcome Dawn Hunter (military spouse and entrepreneur) and Jason Thomas (Idaho Air National Guard member and Amazon Operations Manager) to the studio to discuss how the Leaders Fellowship program helped strengthen their personal and professional lives. Dawn and Jason were members of the inaugural cohort (2019-2020) of the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship program and have benefited from the expanded network that comes with being a fellow. Learn from Dawn and Jason as they discuss the importance of leadership development and how the Leaders Fellowship program has had a positive effect on their lives.

M43 Leaders Fellows: Chad Rohr and Andrea Hovey (Pod#027)

M43 Leaders Fellows: Chad Rohr and Andrea Hovey (Pod#027)

In Podcast #027, we welcome Chad Rohr (Navy) and Andrea Hovey (US Naval Academy, ’03) to the studio to discuss leadership development after the military. Chad and Andrea were members of the inaugural cohort (2019-2020) of the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship program. Both excelled, and consequently, were invited back to help guide the 2020-2021 cohort through the 4 phases of the program. Sit back and listen to Chad and Andrea as they share life stories, reminisce about their time in the Navy, and discuss the importance of continuing leadership development even after leaving military service.

Purpose After the Military: Davin and Gia Strang (Pod #026)

In podcast #026, we welcome Davin (Navy) and Gia (Air Force), a military power couple, to the studio to discuss finding purpose after the military. Upon retirement, they pulled out a map of the USA, decided what they desired in a city, and found their way to Idaho on a whim. And they couldn't be happier! As members of Mission43, they have participated in multiple volunteer events and found life-altering purpose while doing it. Pull out a piece of paper and take some notes as Davin and Gia speak truth about how to transition out of the military with a plan in mind.

Thoughts, questions, suggestions, or comments? We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org.

To learn more about our guests, sign up for a Mission43 volunteer event and you will most likely find them there! Lead.Learn.Inspire.

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Veteran Entrepreneurs: Trill Paullin, Ph.D. & Gene Luze (Pod #025)

Episode 025 of the Mission43 Podcast features entrepreneurs Trill Paullin and Gene Luze. Watch and listen as they discuss the challenges of starting their own businesses...everything from procuring capital to hiring employees, both Trill and Gene rely on the lessons they learned while serving in the US Army. You can't help but be inspired by their stories of resiliency and innovation!

Thoughts, questions, suggestions or comments? We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

To learn more about our guests and their businesses, visit their websites or social media channels listed below:

Free to Feed (Dr. Trill)

Treasure Valley Eco Wash (Gene)

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More M43 Podcasts
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Kelly Cottle, a South African native, former collegiate swimmer, military spouse, and passionate advocate for veterans and their families. Kelly shares her unique journey from immigrating to the U.S. to becoming a dedicated social worker supporting military communities. She opens up about meeting her husband, a combat-wounded Marine, just months after his injury, and navigating the challenges of military life, caregiving, and personal growth. Kelly discusses her work with Mission43 where she is focused on supporting veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders (SUD). This conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of community, communication, and finding purpose through adversity.

Whether you’re a military spouse, veteran, or someone passionate about mental health advocacy, Kelly’s story is sure to motivate you.

Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)
Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)

Join us on this inspiring episode of the Mission43 Podcast as we welcome our newest team member, former Army Ranger Dustin Alger! Dustin’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. A veteran of the 75th Ranger Regiment with multiple combat deployments under his belt, Dustin faced the tough challenges of transitioning to civilian life. But through an unexpected turn, he discovered the healing power of fly fishing—a therapy that not only helped him but ignited a passion to assist fellow veterans battling PTSD. Dive into this episode to hear how Dustin turned his personal journey into a mission to uplift others, the mentorship that shaped his path, and how Mission43 continues to empower military members and their families as they navigate life in Idaho after the military.

Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden (POD#062)
Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden (POD#062)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we sit down with Isaac Beldon, Iraq War veteran and founder of the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA), to explore his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership.

A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)
A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)

In this episode of the Mission43 podcast, former Marine and cybersecurity entrepreneur James McCarter shares his inspiring journey from military service to founding his own company, Shadowscape. James opens up about the challenges veterans often face when transitioning to civilian life, including finding purpose, managing lingering anger, and carving out a meaningful career outside of the military. James describes his path into the cybersecurity industry, the obstacles he’s overcome as a startup founder, and the grit required to build a business from the ground up. James also speaks to the value of community, describing how he initially approached Mission43 with skepticism but ultimately found it to be a supportive network for veterans and entrepreneurship. He also discusses the importance of family and quality time, while sharing hard-earned wisdom on resilience, ambition, and defining success on one’s own terms.

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.

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