Hope For The Warriors Podcast

In this episode of the Hope For The Warriors Podcast, host Kate Dudley interviews actor and veteran advocate Jaylen Moore. They discuss Jaylen’s career, his passion for supporting veterans, and his involvement with Hope For The Warriors. Jaylen shares personal stories about his family's military background, his experiences on the TV show 'Six', and his latest film projects. He also emphasizes the importance of supporting military families, especially during the holidays. The episode highlights Jaylen's genuine enthusiasm for helping others and his commitment to being a strong advocate for the veteran community. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:50 Jaylen Moore's Advocacy and Support for Veterans03:09 Jaylen's Personal and Professional Background04:17 Military Family Connections and Experiences06:44 Acting Career Highlights and Challenges09:46 Hope For The Warriors and Other Organizations14:52 Celebrity Invitational and Personal Stories20:15 Defining Moments in Jaylen's Career25:15 Career Highlights and Gratitude26:03 Meeting Humble Celebrities26:57 The Importance of Kindness29:07 Advocating for Therapy and Self-Help32:13 Birthday Reflections in New York36:13 Upcoming Projects and Family Life37:47 Supporting Military Families43:51 Holiday Giving and Resilience

In this episode of the Hope For The Warriors Podcast, host Kate Dudley interviews Army veteran Ray Soto at the 4th Annual No Obstacles Race for the Warriors on Governors Island. Ray, who served for 23 years, shares his experiences participating in the event and the significant role that HOPE has played in his life. He discusses the importance of community and togetherness when overcoming challenges, the transition from surviving to rebuilding, and the support HOPE offers to veterans and their families. Ray also opens up about his personal struggles and highlights key moments of personal growth. The episode ends with Ray offering heartfelt advice on connecting with veterans and the power of genuine interactions.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Event00:28 Interview with Army Veteran Ray Soto03:15 Ray Soto's Journey with Hope for the Warriors05:14 The Impact of Hope for the Warriors07:39 Personal Stories and Reflections12:15 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles14:02 How to Thank a Veteran16:16 The Importance of Time for Veterans16:49 Checking on Friends and Family During the Holidays17:27 Genuine Buddy Checks18:07 The Power of Random Acts of Kindness20:40 Running in a Spartan Costume22:32 Lightning Round Questions25:20 Message of Hope for Veterans

In this episode of the Hope for the Warriors Podcast, host Kate Dudley showcases the No Obstacles 5K event, hosted by Pain Schwartz Partners in collaboration with Spartan, on New York City's historic Governor's Island. Guests Mollie Stambovsky of Pain Schwartz Partners and Dan Welch from Spartan delve into the event's inception, its unique elements, and how it supports military families by breaking down barriers. The conversation highlights the logistical challenges of organizing the race, the various sponsors and partners involved, and the impactful atmosphere of race day, including drill sergeant-led motivational stations on the course. The podcast emphasizes the importance of community support and awareness in assisting service members, veterans, and their families. 00:00 Introduction to the Hope for the Warriors Podcast00:05 Special Edition: No Obstacles 5K Overview00:50 Meet the Hosts and Guests02:26 The Origin and Mission of Hope for the Warriors05:38 Event Details and How to Get Involved07:25 Spartan's Role and Unique Challenges10:52 Race Day Experience and Logistics19:51 Supporting Partners and Sponsors24:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Join host Kate Dudley at River Landing for the 16th annual Hope For The Warriors Celebrity Invitational. This episode features a compelling conversation with four-star General William 'Spider' Nyland and MLB pitcher and broadcaster Nelson Figueroa. They discuss the event's impact, share personal stories of camaraderie and community, and emphasize the importance of supporting military service members and women. From the sights and sounds of the golf tournament to the heartfelt moments during Warrior Night, this episode captures the spirit and mission of Hope For The Warriors.00:00 Welcome to the Hope For The Warriors Podcast00:21 Introducing the Guests: General Nyland and Nelson Figueroa00:45 First Impressions and Experiences at the Invitational01:34 The Impact and Growth of Hope For The Warriors03:15 Warrior Night: Laughter, Pranks, and Camaraderie04:46 Memorable Moments and Protocols07:41 Fundraising Success and Community Support12:55 Personal Stories and Emotional Connections24:10 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Join host Kate Dudley for a powerful, on-the-ground episode recorded “live” from Colorado Springs at the Department of Defense Warrior Games. This special edition captures the energy, emotion, and inspiration of the event as Kate sits down with Team HOPE athlete Brandon Duenas and Jenna McDonald, HOPE’s Director of Sports & Recreation, Physical Health, and Wellness.Together, they dive into the heart of the Warrior Games, unpacking what it means to compete, heal, and thrive through adaptive sports. Brandon shares his personal story of resilience, recovery, and the life-changing impact of rediscovering purpose through athletics. Jenna sheds light on the broader mission of HOPE, the healing power of camaraderie, and how these games uplift not only the athletes but their families and the entire military community.This is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of strength, spirit, and second chances. 🎖️🏅00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:30 Experiences at the Warrior Games01:19 The Power of Camaraderie and Competition03:08 Sports and Personal Growth06:30 Family Involvement and Support10:17 Adaptive Sports and Healing11:38 Getting Involved in Adaptive Sports18:36 The Importance of Routine and Consistency21:29 Conclusion and Farewell

Join host Kate Dudley as she explores the Warriors Compass Program, a vital initiative that supports veterans, military spouses, and their families during their post-military career transitions. Kate is joined by Brian Papakie, HOPE’s Director of Transition Services, and Kristy Warren, HOPE’s Career Transition Manager/Scholarship Program Manager, who share valuable insights and practical tools for navigating the civilian workforce. They discuss the challenges veterans face, the importance of networking, and the holistic approach of Hope For The Warriors. Tune in for inspiring stories, strategic advice, and how you can support veterans as we approach National Hire a Veteran Day. 00:00 Introduction to the Hope for the Warriors Podcast00:30 Meet the Guests: Brian and Kristy01:08 Understanding the Warrior's Compass Program03:54 Navigating Career Transitions11:00 Challenges Veterans Face in the Civilian Workforce14:50 Bridging the Military-Civilian Job Gap18:57 Networking and Employment Resources25:38 Employer Perceptions and Military Spouse Employment32:00 Holistic Support and Success Stories37:45 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionImportant Links: Warriors Compass Webinar Series Registration

Join us on the Hudson River for a special episode of the Hope For The Warriors Podcast, recorded at our annual Striped Bass Fishing Tournament! Host Kate Dudley is joined by actors and veterans advocates Tyler Grey and AJ Buckley for a powerful, honest, and often hilarious conversation about community, service, and the mission of HOPE.From stories of connection to the importance of showing up for each other and our nation’s veterans, this episode captures the heart of what this tournament is all about.📍 Location: Hudson River🎙️ Guests: Tyler Grey & AJ Buckley🎣 Event: Annual Striped Bass Fishing Tournament💛 Hosted by: Hope For The Warriors00:00 Introduction and Special Guests00:30 Funny Anecdotes and Casual Banter02:42 Fishing Trip Experience06:22 Hope for the Warriors Impact09:11 Personal Stories and Reflections16:45 Understanding the Military Mindset17:03 The Need for Post-Service Adjustment18:08 The Role of Hope for Warriors19:10 The Importance of Solutions Over Awareness21:03 Men and Emotional Health21:58 The Impact of Suppressing Emotions25:33 Sharing Stories to Heal26:47 Reflecting on Personal Growth28:50 The Power of Connection31:52 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Resilience and Remembrance: Colonel Greg Gadson's Journey In this poignant Memorial Day episode of the Hope for the Warriors Podcast, we are joined by retired Army Colonel Greg Gadson, a decorated combat veteran and motivational speaker. Colonel Gadson shares his powerful story of resilience after losing both legs to a roadside bomb in Iraq, highlighting the importance of hope and perseverance. He discusses his military service, the harrowing night of his injury, and his journey of recovery. Gadson also honors the memory of fallen soldiers and reflects on the true meaning of Memorial Day. His inspiring words remind us to live fully and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. 00:00 Introduction to Hope for the Warriors Podcast00:24 Meet Colonel Greg Gadson: A Story of Resilience01:00 Greg Gadson's Military Service and Life-Altering Event03:16 Surviving Against All Odds05:43 The Journey of Writing a Book10:45 Memorial Day Reflections16:14 Honoring Fallen Comrades25:28 Hope for the Warriors: A Lifelong Connection29:03 Closing Thoughts and Memorial Day Tribute