Searching For Heroes With Benjamin Hall

Before the age of 16, JT Mestdagh had undergone over 16 serious surgeries -- with many believing he shouldn't have survived his first years of life. Despite the challenges, JT has been able to take every challenging, bad day, and turned it into one worth living. JT joins Ben to discuss how living with VACTERL syndrome, a rare combination of several birth defects, severe dyslexia, and short-term memory loss has influenced his life, but never stopped him from trying to be the best he can be.  He shares how that determination led him to do things doctors never thought would be possible—from everyday tasks like walking and reading to climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and starting the JT Mestdagh Foundation. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this Easter Monday, Ben revisits his conversation with disaster psychologist and disaster ministry expert Dr. Jamie Aten, on faith and resilience. Dr. Aten dives into complex questions surrounding faith, tragedy, and resilience — and explains how his experiences and extensive research have allowed him to merge his understanding of the three. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday, April 15th, 2013, while crowds cheered on runners at the 117th Boston Marathon, no one could anticipate the events that would unfold. Two pressure-cooker bombs would detonate in a terrorist attack near the finish line, killing three people and injuring more than 260 others.   Among the injured was Marc Fucarile, who was supporting a friend when the second bomb went off right beside him, leaving him critically injured. Marc joins Ben to share his incredible story of resilience, faith and survival. He sheds light on how our most vulnerable moments are often the ones that make us stronger.   Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Imagine being accused of a murder you didn't commit — and spending over 20 years behind bars, knowing the real killer was still free. That was Troshawn McCoy's reality.  As one of the Marquette Park Four, Troshawn was coerced by Chicago police into falsely confessing to a double murder and robbery. Despite zero physical or forensic evidence, he was sentenced to 55 years in prison. Decades later, newly analyzed fingerprint evidence proved what Troshawn had always known; he was innocent. This discovery ultimately led to all four men being exonerated in 2017.  Troshawn sits down with Ben to discuss what it was like losing two decades of his life behind bars, the moment he found out he may be freed, and how he's now advocating and fighting to reform the criminal justice system. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Sergeant Alfred Brenner and his military dog Grief were hit by an IED in Afghanistan, he wasn't focused on the pain his severe injuries were causing - but on the fact nobody was calling out for his partner, Grief. In the months to follow, Sergeant Brenner underwent many physical challenges while recovering. But nothing would come close to the pain he endured learning to live without Grief -- who wasn't only his K9, but his closest ally and best friend. Retired Sergeant Brenner joins Ben to open up about what this recovery process was like, how he continues to honor Grief's memory, and why the bond that forms between a soldier and man's best friend is incomparable -- something he explores in depth in his book, Surviving with Grief: The Story of How a Marine and His Dog Survived The Everyday Battles of War. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He was only thirteen years old when he began being groomed by the mother of a young boy who was in his Cub Scout troop. Years of abuse would follow, and even after he was free of his abuser, James Dold struggled immensely with the trauma he endured and how he was to move forward. Instead of letting this fear and pain drag him down, he turned to advocacy that has changed the world. Today, James joins Benjamin to discuss how he turned affliction into determination - leading him to pass 40 new anti-human trafficking laws and create Human Rights for Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of children who have nobody to turn to. He also shares how people can join in this fight, ensuring the criminal justice system is treating children who've experienced severe trauma fairly. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Friday, March 14th, marked three years since Ben and his team were struck by a Russian missile in Ukraine. While Ben's first year after the accident was spent in intense recovery as he learned how to walk again, the time since has been an enlightening period of reflection -- as he looked back on how much his life has changed since 2022, and how much he's learned about people, resilience, and resolve in the process. Starting tomorrow, Ben's reflections will be available for all to read in his new book, "Resolute: How We Humans Keep Finding Ways to Beat the Toughest Odds," which takes a deep dive into the revelations he's had since his life-altering accident, and features interviews with those who inspired Ben in his journey to understand what makes humans truly resolute. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"As long as a writer is read, he is alive." - Victoria Amelina   37-year-old author, Victoria Amelina was documenting the pivotal work Ukrainian women were doing in the Russia-Ukraine War when she was tragically killed in a Russian missile attack. Instead of letting her words be lost, her husband, friends, and colleagues came together to ensure her work was shared with the world. With the help of loved ones, Victoria Amelina now lives on through her book, 'Looking at Women Looking at War.'   Close friend of Victoria, Ukrainian journalist and cultural manager Tetyana Teren, joins Benjamin to reflect on how she and Victoria had worked together to publish other deceased writers' works, and why it was crucial Victoria's story be finished. She also discusses the heart-wrenching challenge of watching so many of her colleagues and friends fall victim to the war and the driving force that pushes her forward: knowing the work she and fellow Ukrainian journalists are doing is crucial in revealing the realities of the war and preserving Ukrainian history and culture.   Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a 40-day period where Christians around the world offer a sacrifice to God.  Actor, Mark Wahlberg and Benjamin discuss the meaning of the Lenten season in their lives and the beauty in letting go to make room for your faith.   Mark also shares how the Hallow app reconnects believers to their faith.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can faith breed resilience, or vice versa? And how does resilience differ across various communities, cultures, and continents? From battling stage IV colon cancer to surviving Hurricane Katrina, Jamie Aten, Ph.D., has both experienced and witnessed intense suffering. And though this seems like it would have hardened Dr. Aten's outlook on the world, it instead made him curious — ultimately leading him to become a disaster psychologist and ministry expert.  Dr. Aten dives into complex questions surrounding faith, tragedy, and resilience — and explains how his experiences and extensive research have allowed him to merge his understanding of the three. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

February 24th marks three years since Russia invaded Ukraine, beginning a brutal war that continues raging. While we take this day to honor Ukraine, a country that wasn't expected to last a month against Russia and yet continues fighting, we also take it to remember the innocent lives that have been lost, and pay respect to those who continue fighting. One of those people is Ambassador Oksana Markarova, who had only been serving as the Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States for about a year when Russia invaded her country — leading to her work, and her face, being instantly projected across the globe.  Ambassador Markarova joins Benjamin to discuss what the past three years have been like for her, as one of the key figures in charge of connecting Ukraine and the U.S. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"My niece Roni was awakened with a gun pointed at her face attwo and a half years old...and then around 1:30 p.m., Omri was handcuffed and taken hostage."   It's been 499 days since Omri Miran, his wife Lishay, and their two young daughters Roni and Alma woke up to a nightmare on October 7th, 2023 -- when their family was held captive by Hamas militants, and Omri was taken hostage. Since that day, Omri's family has dedicated their lives to advocating for his release.   While crucial progress is being made between Israel and Hamas, as they prepare to enter phase two of a hostage deal that will hopefully lead to the release of 33 Israeli hostages, Omri's brother-in-law Moshe Lavi says advocacy and fighting to bring the innocent home must never stop. Moshe details how his family has been working since October 8th to raise awareness and call for Omri's release and why he believes caution is crucial when dealing with a terrorist organization like Hamas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A 21-year-old girl looking to become a Chinese interpreter and a former pediatric anesthesiologist may not seem like they'd end up on the same career path. However, after watching their beloved home country be torn apart by war, everything changed for Diana Obzhelian and Mykyta Kryzhanovsky.   Diana and Mykyta join Benjamin to discuss how their love for Ukraine led them to the non-profit organization The Halo Trust, where they've dedicated their lives to "demining": clearing landmines and other explosives from former war zones.   Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"I am slowly burning alive, and I have nothing to orient myself to get myself out of this situation. I'm realizing pretty quick that I'm not going to make it out." - Spencer Tejedas Except on that day in May of 2024, Gresham firefighter Spencer Tejedas did end up making it out of the burning building he thought would claim his life — suffering third-degree burns on 45% of his body and beginning down a courageous road to recovery. Spencer and his wife Melea join Benjamin to reflect on their vivid memories of May 30th, 2024, how they were able to remain hopeful even when Spencer's lungs were failing for nearly six weeks, and the ways they and their two children have adjusted to their "new normal" with the support of their community and each other.  Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"From the minute this happened in 2022, I never once thought of what had been taken. I thought of what I could do to get through it." How was Benjamin able to channel optimism after losing two of his colleagues and nearly losing his own life in Ukraine? Does everybody have the power to access this sort of hope? These are the exact questions Benjamin asked himself while recovering, and what ultimately led him to begin this search for heroes. Benjamin reveals his four keys to eternal optimism. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Imagine meeting a stranger, cutting the small talk, and getting straight to the questions that cultivate connection. That's exactly what documentary journalist, viral TED Talk speaker, and founder of 'Make Big Talk,' Kalina Silverman is doing — and the results she's collected have inspired millions of people across the globe. Kalina joins Benjamin to discuss what led her to create 'Make Big Talk,' an organization aiming to fight loneliness and disconnection with community, curiosity, and empathy. She explains how one YouTube video revolving around asking strangers 'what do you want to do before you die?' has turned into a movement, and how she's now connecting with and raising funds for California wildfire victims through Make Big Talk. To Learn More: https://www.makebigtalk.com/  Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Firefighters are seen as some of the strongest, most selfless people in society — willingly risking their lives and enduring traumatic events to save others. With their courage and bravery on constant display, it becomes easy to assume these first responders are invincible. While they are heroes, they need our support just as much as we need theirs.   Former firefighter paramedic and author of 'Overcoming Tuesday: A First Responder's Tale of Healing and Resiliency,' Jim Burneka opens up about the physical and mental toll that comes after years of fighting fires, and why his experience and own mental health journey led him to start Firefighter Cancer Consultants, an organization focusing on firefighter wellness and cancer awareness.   Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The holiday season followed by the start of the new year is often thought to be a time of joy, rest, and new beginnings — so when grief or depression feels inescapable during this time, it's common for people to feel defective or guilty for not feeling how society says we should. Jessica Cabeen, who's experienced this feeling firsthand, has a message for those going through this: "It's okay to not be okay. But it's not okay to not talk to someone about it or not seek help." The author, speaker, and award-winning school principal shares a few mindset changes, gratitude practices, and tools that can be essential when unexpected challenges arise during a season of joy — things she learned while experiencing one of the most incredible yet challenging experiences of her life: adopting her son Isaiah from Ethiopia.  Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Throughout the year, Benjamin has spoken to some of the most brave, courageous, and ambitious people in the world. Today, he's looking back at a few conversations that left a profound impact on him, and likely on many of you.  A special thank you to all of the heroes who joined in 2024 and to all of you who joined Benjamin in his search.  Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Don't allow circumstances you were born in to dictate the outcome of your life." From the time he was young, Mayor Jermaine Wilson had big ambitions. But the environment he grew up in led him into a life of crime -- one that would land him in juvenile corrections for four years and in prison for three. However, through fatherhood, finding faith, and an uplifting prison fellowship program, Jermaine turned his life around. Jermaine shares how you can help support children and families of incarcerated people this holiday season through the Angel Tree Prison Fellowship program: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/about/angel-tree/  Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the beginning of July, Dr. Lucy Hone, the award-winning author behind the viral TEDTalk 'The three secrets of resilient people,' discussed what her academic journey studying resilience psychology has taught her, and how losing her twelve-year-old daughter Abi intimately influenced her understanding of how humans grieve, live, and recover. Now, as the seasons change, Dr. Lucy Hone is back to discuss a common obstacle many people face this time of year: the winter blues. She shares her advice on how people can escape from the rut that can come with cold, dark days, how she's continuing to study human response to traumatic events, and her latest research project that delves into how people cope with stressful life events. To take Dr. Hone's survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHFSggvj6qHybYGPz1ZDSm8JzCqQN4ghiETDnxYid6FjNMRA/viewform Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 7th, 2023, Major General Noam Tibon and his wife Gali Mir-Tibon were on the coast of Tel Aviv when they received a text from their son, Amir, informing them that their kibbutz, Nahal Oz, was being attacked by Hamas terrorists. In that moment, General Tibon had to make a decision, would he flee to ensure his safety or fight to save his family? The decision was easy. General Tibon shares how he and his wife's courageous decision to drive into Nahal Oz that day led to many lives being saved, and how he had the strength and bravery to risk his life for not only the people he loved but strangers. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After recovering from the severe injuries, he sustained while covering Russia's invasion of Ukraine, FOX News Senior Correspondent Benjamin Hall set out on a mission to discover everyday heroes living amongst us, people who showcase resilience and optimism in a world of immense triumphs but also heartbreak. One year later Benjamin has met countless heroes, and he will continue to highlight stories of strength, honor, and hope. In this anniversary episode, Benjamin looks back at a few heroic stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It is the most satisfying feeling to know that you helped somebody for no other reason besides to help them." As a former Green Beret, UFC fighter, and co-founder of Save Our Allies,Tim Kennedy has witnessed adversity in its rawest form. However, he is still able to maintain unbreakable joy.  Tim sits down with Benjamin to discuss how he maintains his inner light despite seeing unthinkable tragedy and why he believes giving back to others, prioritizing discipline, and surrounding yourself with people you admire are essential to your healing. He also shares the inspiration behind 'Save Our Allies,' and how they're expanding to better respond to global crises.    Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

November 19th marks two years since a gunman unleashed gunfire on the Colorado Springs, Colorado Club Q nightclub, tragically killing five people and injuring nineteen others. However, if it wasn't for U.S. Army Veteran Richard Fierro, the man who put himself directly in harms way to disarm the shooter, the tragedy could've been much worse.  Benjamin looks back at his conversation with Richard, as he recounts the moments that unfolded that night and shares why in a choice of fight or flight, there wasn't any hesitation on what he should do.    Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Veterans Day, we honor those who dedicated their lives to protect our country at all costs. Derek McGinnis is a prime example.  US Navy veteran Derek McGinnis was serving in Iraq when he was severely injured by an IED explosion — losing a leg, suffering a traumatic brain injury, collapsed lung, and other intense shrapnel injuries. When adjusting to his new normal, it wasn't just the constant pain that plagued Derek, but the loss of identity and direction that made recovery insurmountable. However, through the vital support Derek and his family received from Semper Fi & America's Fund, Derek realized though his life was different now, it was still incredibly meaningful.    Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anyone following the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars is most likely familiar with the fascinating, fearless work of FOX News Chief Foreign Correspondent Trey Yingst.  Though, what's life like for correspondents like Trey, who risk their lives to shed light on some of the world's most important stories?   Trey and Ben discuss the experiences they've both undergone as war correspondents — from sharing the same urge to be in the center of action from a young age, to facing the emotional toll that comes with living in a war zone. They also discuss Trey's book "Black Saturday," which captures Trey's eye-witness account of the tragic October 7th attacks on Israel.    Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When thinking about events across the world that embody strength and resilience, the New York City Marathon is a prime example. As countless runners join together, carrying unique stories and a shared goal, it's one of the most inspiring events of the year — especially when looking at groups like Team Inspire, a group of 26 runners put together by the New York Road Runners, a non-profit organization setting out to strengthen people and communities through the transformative power of running. Today, Ben sits down with Mitch Strong, a 76-year-old member of Team Inspire who's taking on the NYC Marathon after a 36-year hiatus. Mitch sits down with Ben to discuss his complex relationship with resilience as a Vietnam Air Force Veteran, a cancer survivor, and a long-time runner who's been coaching others to achieve their goals for over 25 years.    Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After undergoing fourteen months of treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis, Roberta Lombardi was emotionally and physically spent. On top of this, Roberta had to reckon with a paralyzing realization: she was in the top 1% of people in the hospital who could afford everything that came with a cancer diagnosis. Now, living cancer-free, Roberta has dedicated her life to addressing this disparity. Roberta joins Ben to discuss how her non-profit organization, 'Infinite Strength,' can provide emotional and financial support to underserved mothers living with metastatic breast cancer. To donate or learn more about Infinite Strength, visit their website below: https://www.infinitestrength.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"USS Cole is in the Eastern Med right now helping defend Israel against Iranian ballistic missiles. And it's because of my crew of heroes."   On October 12, 2000, Kirk Lippold was the Commanding Officer on the USS Cole when it was attacked by al-Qaeda. In an instant, Commander Lippold oversaw saving his men and his rapidly sinking ship. Though 17 sailors tragically lost their lives, he and his crew did achieve a historic feat: saving the USS Cole.   Commander Lippold joins Benjamin to discuss the events of that horrific day and to weigh in on the connection between his 2000 attack and the terrorist attacks on 9/11, as well as the current state of U.S. national security. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today marks one year since the October 7th attacks that began the Israel-Hamas war.   365 days later, as the war rages on, Benjamin sits down to reflect on what it's like observing the tragedy of this war after spending years of his life observing it firsthand while reporting in conflict zones. He opens up about the feelings that come with watching friends and colleagues report live from these dangerous war zones, after he nearly lost his life while reporting in Ukraine in March of 2022. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tarris Marie was a wife and mother with 15 years of experience in corporate America, when she noticed her vision becoming slightly distorted. Shortly after, she was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a genetic condition that ultimately led Tarris to become legally blind. After losing her central vision, leaving her career, and experiencing death in her family — Tarris hit rock bottom. Until she heard a voice telling her, "write a book".    Today, Tarris Marie sits down with Benjamin to discuss how this experience ultimately led to her writing her debut novel, Blaque Pearle, despite never having written anything like it before. She also reveals her experience adjusting to life with only her peripheral vision, carving out a new professional pathway, and relying on her faith and family to fuel her resilience. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a Saturday night out with friends in 2019, Mike Lavorel thought he was coming down with a stomach bug when he started feeling sick later that night. By Tuesday evening, Mike was unable to speak and immobile. What began then, was Mike's tumultuous fight to stay alive.   Mike and his wife Jennifer Lavorel join Benjamin to discuss how Mike eating a raw oyster led to a nine-month battle with sepsis, a medically induced coma, and ultimately -- the loss of both his lower legs and several fingers.    The Lavorels share what it was like for them and their two sons to experience their lives transform in an instant, how Mike was able to come back from a 1% chance of survival, and the crucial role their community in Mike's recovery. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's rare to meet someone whose life hasn't been impacted by addiction in some way, yet conversations surrounding the disease largely remain taboo due to shame and stigma. The First Lady of North Dakota, Kathryn Burgum has made it her mission to change that.   First Lady Burgum joins Benjamin to discuss her 20 year battle with alcoholism, and why the shame and fear of being met with disappointment were primary reasons she didn't ask for the help she needed. Now, 22 years sober, she's used her influence to create 'Recovery Reinvented,' a non-profit organization aiming to dismantle the stigma around addictions that keeps so many people suffering in silence. Through educating and forming a community, the First Lady is raising awareness of the fact that addiction is a brain disease, not a moral failing. She shares crucial advice that can help recovering addicts and those with loved ones grappling with addiction find the hope they need to heal. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While on a mission to visit all 193 countries, Sam Goodwin's journey took a sharp turn when he was abducted by the Syrian army in 2019. For 27 days, Sam was held in solitary confinement — being questioned repetitively by the Syrian regime who threatened to have ISIS behead him if he didn't confess to being a spy. Through faith and his family's unrelenting efforts to get Sam home, he survived.   Sam joins Ben to discuss how he remained resilient while in solitary confinement — never knowing when, or if, he would be released or killed. He also shares how his family worked tirelessly behind the scenes to secure his release and why he refused to let this experience stop him from visiting all 193 countries, a goal he has now completed. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The transition from serving full-time in the military to stepping into civilian life can be challenging for veterans, from adapting to life at home to the societal pressure to have it all together. Fortunately, there are organizations and individuals across the country calling out this stigma and working to ensure veterans can find hope and purpose.   President and CEO of America's Warrior Partnership, retired Lieutenant Colonel Jim Lorraine, joins Benjamin to discuss how his non-profit organization goes the extra mile to reach veterans who may be struggling but don't know how to ask for help. He also shares how caring for his wife, Becky, a fellow veteran living with epilepsy and breast cancer, has taught him about additional life-saving organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project — which helps America's heroes navigate the healthcare system.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a former NASA astronaut, engineer, and F-14 fighter jet pilot, Scott Kelly's story is out of this world in more ways than one. Between the groundbreaking missions he's been a part of with his identical twin brother, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and spending over 500 days in space, Scott has inevitably learned a thing or two about staying mentally strong, striving for greatness, and remaining curious about the world.   Scott joins Benjamin to share his thoughts on what it's like preparing for space exploration, and where he believes the nation currently stands on the desire for both individual and societal progress. He also shares the current work he's doing with Nova Ukraine, a nonprofit organization providing humanitarian aid, education, and resources to the people of Ukraine. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this special episode, Benjamin is answering a few of your questions!   From discussing his mental and physical recovery, his thoughts on forgiveness after experiencing the horrific reality of war to what it was like attending the Paris 2024 Olympics last weekend. He also shares how his opinion on resilience, one of the essential themes of the podcast, continues to change and grow as he speaks to more people every week. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 7th marked National Purple Heart Day — a day where we honor the men and women who were wounded or lost lives their lives while valiantly serving in the military. For retired Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Gade, two-time Purple Heart Medal recipient, it's a day to remember his brothers and sisters in combat who didn't make it back from overseas and emphasize how important proper support is for veterans.   Today, Lt. Gade, who currently serves as an Advisory Council Member at America's Warrior Partnership, joins Ben to discuss the two injuries that led to his Purple Hearts, including being hit by a rocket-propelled grenade and IED that led him to lose his leg. He opens about the difficult mental and physical transition he faced when entering civilian life and why his experience with the VA disability system led him to write his book, 'Wounding Warriors: How Bad Policy Is Making Veterans," detailing his experience with Veteran Affairs and their role in transitioning soldiers home. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Howie Sanborn's life, in many ways, was defined by movement — from his 15 years as a U.S. Airborne Ranger and his spot on the U.S. Army Parachute Team to his love for competing in triathlons. Then came September 2012.  After being struck by a distracted driver while cycling with a friend left him paralyzed from the waist down, Howie knew his life would drastically change — but he refused to let that change be for the worse. Within seven months, he went from a hospital bed to competing in his first triathlon in a wheelchair. Fast forward to 2024, Howie's headed to Paris to represent the U.S. at the Paralympics.  Today, Howie Sanborn joins Ben to discuss  how, with the help of Semper Fi & America's Fund, he was able to adjust so quickly after his life-altering accident while also processing extensive grief, the importance of setting tangible goals to succeed, and what his mindset is as he prepares for the upcoming 2024 Paralympic Games.   Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Close to 400,000 children in the United States are in foster care, many are being moved from home to home in need of a bag to hold all their belongings. Cara Finger saw firsthand how many of the children she was fostering were bringing their belongings to her house in a garbage bag, she knew that there needed to be a solution.   Founder of My Bag, My Story Cara Finger joins Ben for an important conversation about the foster care system and why she decided to create her own non-profit to help children in foster care. My Bag, My Story's mission is to improve the lives of children in foster care one bag at a time. With every bag purchased, one bag is donated to a child in foster care...elevating their sense of self-worth and dignity.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On March 11, 2013, Nick Lavery's life was transformed forever when on active duty in Afghanistan his detachment was attacked, and he lost his leg. Miraculously, he recovered and went on to do the unthinkable, becoming the first Special Forces operator to return to combat as an above-the-knee amputee. Since then, Nick has gone on to find power in his pain and dedicated his life to enabling others to recognize their purpose. Green Beret in U.S. Army Special Forces and CEO of Precision Components LLC, Nick Lavery joins Ben to discuss his journey from serving in Afghanistan to becoming a successful entrepreneur helping others learn and build resilience. He describes how he is implementing resilience in his own kids and why having a team is essential to helping find your inner strength. Follow Benjamin on X: @BenjaminHallFNC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices