Podcasts about Our Nation

Episode Summary      On January 18, 2018, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, Green Beret combat medic Luke Sciulli stopped being the medic and became the patient. A booby-trapped building collapsed on him during a personnel-recovery operation, fracturing his C4, C5, and C6 vertebrae, both scapulas, and his pelvis, and leaving him with a spinal cord injury at C5. In this episode of WarDocs, SFC(R) Luke Sciulli walks through that day and the MEDEVAC chain that followed — forward surgical team, Kandahar, Landstuhl, and Walter Reed — and explains how living through the system he once operated permanently reshaped his view of casualty care, pain management, and patient advocacy.   SFC(R) Sciulli is candid about the recovery that nearly broke him. He describes the culture shock of moving from elite combat operations to a 30-bed spinal cord injury ward populated largely by elderly veterans, and the slow, deliberate realization that, in his words, the only person who was going to make his life better was him. He maps the framework that pulled him back — physical health, mental health, and career — and offers a direct message to wounded operators who cannot get out of bed: the discipline that earned the Beret, the Tab, or the Trident is still inside them.   The conversation then widens into the operational and strategic challenges Sciulli has tackled across an extraordinary career. He compares civilian and military trauma systems and argues that surgeons in major American cities now see more penetrating trauma than many military providers — making military-civilian partnerships essential to keeping skills sharp. He recounts building a joint, combined MEDEVAC architecture across five African nations, and embedding at forward surgical teams in Ukraine just kilometers from the front, where 60 to 90 casualties a day exposed gaps in Role 1 and Role 2 doctrine, risk tolerance, and interoperability that U.S. tabletop exercises rarely surface.   SFC(R) Sciulli also draws on his time supervising a 216-bed field hospital at Columbia University during the 2020 COVID surge and his current work with Vigilant Consulting and Valinor Enterprises advising on tactical medical technology. He makes the case for predictive analytics, wearables, and automated resuscitation systems to force-multiply providers in large-scale combat operations — while confronting the risk-acceptance and accountability questions that slow adoption. He closes with the cause he intends to define his legacy: fixing the negligent disconnect that leaves SOF medics and operators underutilized in the civilian, defense, and healthcare worlds, and expanding the transition programs that turn their hard-won skills into lives saved at home. Chapters (00:00-01:10) Cold Open and Introduction (01:10-05:30) Becoming the Casualty in Helmand Province (05:30-11:30) The Recovery That Rewired Everything (11:30-15:45) Civilian and Military Medicine, Two Ways (15:45-22:45) Distance, Mass Casualties, and Lessons from Ukraine (22:45-32:30) Field Hospitals, Tactical Technology, and Risk (32:30-36:15) Recruiting the Next Force and a SOF Medic Legacy Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:10) Introduction Dr. Soderdahl frames the journey ahead: a Green Beret combat medic who became the patient on the wrong side of an IED blast and now drives technology and policy for the next war. The standard WarDocs welcome sets up a firsthand look at military medicine from the austere edge of combat to the front lines of innovation. (01:10-05:30) Becoming the Casualty in Helmand Province SFC(R) Sciulli recounts volunteering to backfill a buddy's ODA as senior medic and the January 18, 2018 operation in which a booby-trapped building collapsed onto him. He details catastrophic injuries — broken C4-C6, a C5 spinal cord injury, fractured scapulas and pelvis — and the MEDEVAC through the forward surgical team toward higher care, including how his teammates stabilized and moved him. (05:30-11:30) The Recovery That Rewired Everything He describes six months split between Walter Reed and the Tampa VA, the jolt of moving from combat to a spinal cord injury ward, and the loss of career, health, and identity overnight. The turning point came when he accepted that no one else could make his life better, and built a deliberate framework around physical health, mental health, and career. (11:30-15:45) Civilian and Military Medicine, Two Ways Drawing on his paramedic, firefighter, and critical-care flight background plus SF service, Sciulli argues civilian surgeons now out-rep many military providers on penetrating trauma, making military-civilian partnerships essential. He also reflects on serving as senior medical provider for SEAL Teams Two and Eight and why interoperability comes down to people and personality. (15:45-22:45) Distance, Mass Casualties, and Lessons from Ukraine He explains building a joint, combined MEDEVAC system across Chad, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Libya, then scales the problem to the Indo-Pacific and Eastern Europe. Embedded at forward surgical teams in Ukraine, he saw 60 to 90 casualties a day and learned hard lessons about volume, interoperability, civilian EMS integration, and U.S. risk tolerance. (22:45-32:30) Field Hospitals, Tactical Technology, and Risk SFC(R) Sciulli describes supervising a 216-bed COVID field hospital at Columbia University and why a military-style community made it work. He then identifies penetrating and shrapnel trauma as a top killer and makes the case for wearables, predictive analytics, and automated resuscitation — confronting the risk acceptance and human trust that slow adoption. (32:30-36:15) Recruiting the Next Force and a SOF Medic Legacy Speaking to students, residents, and recruiters, Sciulli reframes the pitch: the military needs people willing to operate beyond their comfort zone and scope, not just another credential. He closes on the legacy he intends to leave — fixing the negligent disconnect that leaves SOF medics and operators underutilized after service. Take Home Messages Experiencing Care Builds the Best Advocates: Living through the casualty evacuation chain as the patient teaches lessons no provider can learn from the other side of the litter. Empathy, pain management, and patient advocacy take on new meaning once a clinician has been the one strapped to the litter. Recovery Is a Decision You Make Daily: The hardest part of catastrophic injury is mental, not physical. Progress comes from a conscious choice to get up and be better than yesterday, supported by resources but driven by personal ownership of physical health, mental health, and career. Keep Military Providers Sharp in Civilian Trauma: Civilian surgeons in major cities now see more penetrating trauma and polytrauma than many military clinicians. An integrated military-civilian system that rotates providers through high-volume civilian centers is essential to keeping wartime skills ready. Plan for Volume, Distance, and Interoperability: Future large-scale combat means moving casualties across oceans and continents while relying on host-nation, partner, and civilian systems. High casualty volumes and contested distance demand generalist skill, civilian EMS integration, and a higher tolerance for operational risk. Close the Gap Between Research and the Warfighter: Government funds enormous amounts of combat casualty research and technology that never reaches frontline providers fast enough. The mission is to translate proven findings and devices into the warfighter's hands tomorrow — not years from now.   Episode Keywords military medicine, combat medicine, Green Beret medic, 18D combat medic, special forces medic, combat casualty care, TCCC, spinal cord injury recovery, polytrauma, Helmand Province, Walter Reed, MEDEVAC, forward surgical team, Ukraine combat medicine, mass casualty, large scale combat operations, LSCO, prolonged field care, tactical medicine, medical device innovation, SOF medic, military civilian partnership, WarDocs, Luke Sciulli, veteran resilience, penetrating trauma   Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #CombatMedicine, #GreenBeret, #WarDocs, #CombatCasualtyCare, #SOFMedic, #VeteranResilience, #TacticalMedicine   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission- WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the "What We Are For" Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms. Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

(Psalm 85:9-13) The greatest need of our nation is spiritual. The greatest work we can do is pray. We conclude our study of Psalm 85, the patriot's prayer, with specific things to pray for the nation that we love. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10164260710) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(Psalm 85:1-8) When we say, "God bless America" for what do we pray? Today we learn a biblical pattern of prayer for our country. Scripture provides a guide of how to pray for America. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10163260709) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(Psalm 85) Patriotism and Christianity are not the same thing, but those who follow Christ should love their country. LIke Israel, our own nation, is in desperate need of divine intervention. It is time for God's people to pray. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10162260708) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

Episode Summary     What if a medical career could be built on profound purpose, paid for in full, and shaped by leadership opportunities no civilian path can match? In this episode of WarDocs, COL Danielle Holt, MD, an Army general surgeon and Associate Dean of Admissions and Recruitment at the Uniformed Services University (USU) School of Medicine, lays out exactly what it takes to become a military physician and why the journey is worth it. Drawing on a career that has carried her from broad-spectrum rural surgery at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, to a forward surgical team in Afghanistan, to serving as consultant surgeon for the White House Medical Team at Walter Reed, she offers a candid, insider's view of the two pathways into uniformed medicine.       The conversation centers on the choice every service-minded pre-med must weigh: the tuition-free USU School of Medicine, the nation's only fully federally funded medical school, versus the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) that places students at civilian schools. She explains the trade-offs in plain terms — the seven-year versus four-year service obligation, the roughly $90,000 annual salary USU students earn while in school, the one hundred hours of military-unique curriculum, and the rotations across military treatment facilities worldwide. She is equally direct about the military match, where competitive specialties such as general surgery can be more attainable than many applicants realize.    COL Holt demystifies admissions. Academics are a threshold, not the finish line — a 496 MCAT and 3.0 GPA for regular decision, rising to a 500 minimum, with a class mean near 510. Beyond the numbers, she explains what actually earns an interview and an offer: a clear reason to be a physician, a genuine commitment to military service, and the personal attributes of teamwork, adaptability, and being comfortable when things get uncomfortable. She names the self-inflicted mistakes that sink applicants — turning the application in late, stalling on medical clearance and waivers, retaking the MCAT too often, and failing to engage the admissions team. She closes with the human core of the school: the fire team model, longitudinal faculty coaching, the Military Medical Communities program, and a culture where students and faculty take care of one another in a way civilian medicine rarely sees. Her message to any pre-med on the fence is simple — do not underestimate yourself, reach out for mentorship, and remember that the mission is the point. Chapters (00:00-04:54) A Surgeon's Journey: ROTC, Alaska, Afghanistan, and the White House (04:55-10:11) What USUHS Is and Why It Is Different (10:12-19:38) USUHS versus HPSP: Obligations, the Military Match, and How to Choose (19:39-27:39) Timelines, Thresholds, and What Earns an Interview (27:40-43:39) Shadowing, Research, Non-Traditional Applicants, and Common Mistakes (43:40-55:30) The Interview, the Fire Team Culture, and Advice for the Fence-Sitter Chapter Summaries (00:00-04:54) A Surgeon's Journey: ROTC, Alaska, Afghanistan, and the White House Holt traces a twenty-plus-year dual-military-career path from ROTC and HPSP through general surgery training at Tripler Army Medical Center to duty stations spanning rural Alaska and a tertiary academic hospital. She describes deploying to a forward surgical team in eastern Afghanistan in 2012 and learning damage-control surgery, and credits the Army with handing her leadership roles far earlier than a civilian career would.   (04:55-10:11) What USU Is and Why It Is Different She defines the Uniformed Services University as the nation's only fully federally funded, tuition-free medical school, training physicians for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Public Health Service. Students draw full pay and benefits — roughly $90,000 a year — complete about one hundred hours of military-unique curriculum, and rotate at military treatment facilities across the country and overseas.   (10:12-19:38) USU versus HPSP: Obligations, the Military Match, and How to Choose Holt compares the seven-year USU service obligation with the four-year HPSP commitment and argues the difference is small over a full career. She explains the military match, where critically needed specialties like general surgery can be more attainable, and walks through how applicants apply by service, weigh geography and specialty, and decide which pathway fits their long-term goals.   (19:39-27:39) Timelines, Thresholds, and What Earns an Interview The USU medical-school timeline mirrors other allopathic schools through AMCAS, but military commissioning adds a lengthy medical clearance process, with about half of students needing a waiver. Academics are a threshold — a 496 MCAT and 3.0 GPA for regular decision. Above all, she stresses applying early and finishing requirements, because uncleared applicants get skipped as seats fill.   (27:40-43:39) Shadowing, Research, Non-Traditional Applicants, and Common Mistakes She pushes back on the pressure around clinical shadowing, noting USU requires none and that paid work as a phlebotomist or technician offers equal exposure. Research is likewise not required, given USU's own Capstone program. She details how the school values non-traditional and prior-service applicants, then names the most common self-inflicted mistakes: late applications, stalled clearances, over-testing the MCAT, and downplaying military experience.   (43:40-55:30) The Interview, the Fire Team Culture, and Advice for the Fence-Sitter Holt explains the virtual two-interview format and what makes candidates stand out — genuine commitment, professionalism, and self-knowledge. She describes the fire team model, longitudinal faculty coaching, and the Military Medical Communities program that links applicants, students, and physicians across services. Her closing advice to fence-sitting pre-meds: do not underestimate yourself, seek mentors, and lead with the mission.   Take Home Messages Mindset matters more than a perfect score.: Academic metrics are a threshold, not the finish line. The strongest military physicians are often the applicants who have struggled, adapted, and bounced back — people who value service over a flawless transcript.   The pathway you choose should match the career you want.: The tuition-free, federally funded medical school carries a longer obligation but builds deeper military identity and connections, while the civilian scholarship route offers more independence. Weigh service obligation, specialty goals, and where you see yourself for the long term.   Apply early and finish your requirements.: Rolling admissions reward speed. The single most avoidable mistakes are turning in a late application, stalling on medical clearance and waivers, and waiting too long on the MCAT or letters of recommendation. Uncleared applicants get skipped as seats fill.   Shadowing and research are not gatekeepers.: Required shadowing hours and formal research are not prerequisites. Paid clinical work and life experience count, and the value placed on non-traditional and prior-service applicants means an unconventional background can be a genuine strength.   Camaraderie is the difference, so engage the community.: The fire team model, longitudinal coaching, and military medical community sessions create a culture where students and faculty take care of one another. Do not underestimate yourself — reach out for mentorship and let the mission lead.   Episode Keywords military medicine, USU School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Danielle Holt, military doctor, how to become a military physician, HPSP scholarship, military medical school, Army surgeon, premed advice, MCAT, medical school admissions, military match, GME, forward surgical team, Walter Reed, military residency, USUHS, tuition free medical school, military officer physician, WarDocs, military healthcare career, premed shadowing, medical school interview, service obligation Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #USU, #MilitaryMedicalSchool, #HPSP, #FutureMilitaryDoc, #PreMed, #ArmyMedicine Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission- WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the "What We Are For" Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms. Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

(Psalm 11-12) As decency seems to crumble all around us, God's people must determine to stay right with God. These twin psalms of David detail four specific things that we must do in perilous times. You can't do everything but you can do something. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10161260707) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(Psalm 11:1-4) Does it ever seem like everything you rested on is shaking? If your foundation is in God then the foundation is never shaken! Our hope is not on earth - it is secure in Heaven. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10160260706) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(1 Timothy 2:1-4) First things first...Our nation's first need is not economic or political—it is spiritual. And our first work must be prayer. We need God! Will you join us in doing the most important work? Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10158260703) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(2 Peter 2:5-9) Believers often get burdened for their country. The need is great! What can be done? In the Old Testament story of Lot we find a man who failed to do what he could have done. This is a warning for us all. Today we identify 3 things that every Christian can do for their country. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(1 Timothy 2:1-4) It is possible for you to love the Lord Jesus Christ with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength and to also love your nation. Join Scott Pauley for this special edition broadcast. Paul prayed for Nero; are you praying for your leaders?  Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10156260701) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

(Matthew 25:31-46) America has been blessed over the past 250 years, but every generation must seek the Lord for itself. Using Jesus' parable of the sheep and the goats, Scott Pauley explains how nations will be judged for their treatment of the least and how that reflects their relationship to God and His people. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10155260630) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

A doctor once told Rich Harwood's mother to face it, her son was a lemon. He's spent his life proving no one is disposable, and that even the most divided towns in America can build something together. Two minutes. Real impact. Leave a review:  lovethepodcast.com/politicsandreligion What does it take to heal a divided town? Less talking, says Rich Harwood. After almost 40 years running the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, he's watched the poorest community in America and some of the most divided places in the country do what most of us have stopped believing is possible: build something together, across every line that's supposed to keep them apart. The conversation runs from Moses and Lincoln to a synagogue firebombing to the three working men who saved his life as a sick kid, and lands on a deceptively simple idea about what we owe one another. A few takeaways: Pull issues out of the political frame and people agree more than they think. Harwood works the reddest and bluest places in the country and says he can't tell who voted for whom. Ask people what they care about instead of who they voted for, and the same concerns surface everywhere: youth, seniors, mental health, belonging. Start small. Big comprehensive plans tend to collapse under their own weight. Real change starts with one modest step that catalyzes a chain reaction, the way practice dinners at a single church spread across an entire county in Reading, Pennsylvania. Turn outward. Sharing space begins with a posture, not a technique. Physically turn toward the other person, choose to see them, and lead with curiosity about what matters to them. About our guest: Rich Harwood is president and founder of the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation and the author of several books, most recently The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation (2024). Find Rich: The Harwood Institute: theharwoodinstitute.org Rich Harwood on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardcharwood ✅ Subscribe to the Substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Follow @coreysnathan across the platforms ✅ Loved this one? Rate and review: lovethepodcast.com/politicsandreligion Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part of The Democracy Group, a network of podcasts examining what's broken in our democracy and how we can work together to fix it. Rich wants the sequel over a beer. We're holding him to it.

A doctor once told Rich Harwood's mother to face it, her son was a lemon. He's spent his life proving no one is disposable, and that even the most divided towns in America can build something together. Two minutes. Real impact. Leave a review:  lovethepodcast.com/politicsandreligion What does it take to heal a divided town? Less talking, says Rich Harwood. After almost 40 years running the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, he's watched the poorest community in America and some of the most divided places in the country do what most of us have stopped believing is possible: build something together, across every line that's supposed to keep them apart. The conversation runs from Moses and Lincoln to a synagogue firebombing to the three working men who saved his life as a sick kid, and lands on a deceptively simple idea about what we owe one another. A few takeaways: Pull issues out of the political frame and people agree more than they think. Harwood works the reddest and bluest places in the country and says he can't tell who voted for whom. Ask people what they care about instead of who they voted for, and the same concerns surface everywhere: youth, seniors, mental health, belonging. Start small. Big comprehensive plans tend to collapse under their own weight. Real change starts with one modest step that catalyzes a chain reaction, the way practice dinners at a single church spread across an entire county in Reading, Pennsylvania. Turn outward. Sharing space begins with a posture, not a technique. Physically turn toward the other person, choose to see them, and lead with curiosity about what matters to them. About our guest: Rich Harwood is president and founder of the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation and the author of several books, most recently The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation (2024). Find Rich: The Harwood Institute: theharwoodinstitute.org Rich Harwood on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardcharwood ✅ Subscribe to the Substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Follow @coreysnathan across the platforms ✅ Loved this one? Rate and review: lovethepodcast.com/politicsandreligion Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part of The Democracy Group, a network of podcasts examining what's broken in our democracy and how we can work together to fix it. Rich wants the sequel over a beer. We're holding him to it.

(Proverbs 14:34) Listen as Scott Pauley leads a heartfelt look back at the spiritual foundations that shaped the United States as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. God has blessed America, thanks to the founders embedding Christian principles into the fabric of the republic. However, our greatest need is not political revival, but a spiritual awakening. Download The Need of Our Nation and a free Bible prayer guide for leaders here, or click to order copies to provide to your church or local government leaders here. (10154260629) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

Newt talks with Bret Baier, Fox News Chief Political Anchor about his new book, “The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.” Baier makes the case that the United States remains resilient and exceptional despite its flaws. Their conversation moves through American history, tracing the book's structure around six pivotal presidents, from Washington and Jefferson's bitter rivalry-turned-friendship to Lincoln's reframing of the Declaration of Independence. They examine why the nation chooses unity despite constant dissent, the often-overlooked surge of bipartisan legislation in Congress, and the lessons learned from Baier's "Common Ground" segment. They close looking ahead, discussing AI, freedom, and what the next 250 years might hold for America—plus Baier's plans for celebrating the country's 250th birthday on July 4th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Few careers in military medicine trace an arc as wide as that of CAPT (Ret) Kimberly Elenberg, DNP, RN. In this episode she sits down with WarDocs to map a journey that began as an ROTC cadet who joined because she saw students rappelling down a building in Philadelphia, and that has since carried her from the bedside at Walter Reed Army Medical Center to the role of principal investigator on a Carnegie Mellon University team competing in the DARPA Triage Challenge. Along the way she changed uniforms, disciplines, and altitudes of responsibility, but never lost the thread that ties it all together: people first, and the relationships that make hard things possible.     CAPT (Ret) Elenberg describes how early mentors shaped her. Colonel Graham showed her that putting people first is a practice, not a slogan. Major McGee backed her instinct for innovation, and as a young nurse on Ward 51 she built one of the first patient education centers in a military treatment facility, learned to set up networks and hardware, and pursued nursing informatics before the field was common. She recounts moving to research at NIH, where her work on TPA for clearing central line catheters was later adopted as best clinical practice, and her decision to volunteer as an EMT and medic so she would understand field medicine as well as hospital medicine.       From there the conversation follows her into the U.S. Public Health Service, where after 9/11 the Surgeon General asked her to help build the nation's deployable response teams from concept to operation, training them in real communities facing real crises. She explains how anthrax and zoonotic disease drew public health into agriculture and food security, how her long relationship with Carnegie Mellon's Auton Lab began with a bus trip and a phone call, and how that mathematical grounding in probabilistic modeling resurfaced when she was asked to model the effects of policy during COVID and, later, to track military security assistance flowing to Ukraine.     The episode closes on the present and the future: autonomous triage payloads that can read a casualty's physiological state without touching them, robotic snakes that might pack non-compressible hemorrhage, swarms of drones and ground robots that find the wounded and feed the right information to the right echelon. Throughout, CAPT (Ret) Elenberg returns to her core lessons — trust your chain of command, define what success really looks like, build on small wins, and never limit yourself to your military occupational specialty. From an orphanage and a food-service background to teaching at the National Defense University, hers is a story about doors held open and relationships that endure. Chapters (00:54-07:11) From Rappelling Cadet to Innovating Army Nurse (07:11-16:48) Building the Nation's Public Health Response Teams (16:48-22:24) Biosurveillance Modeling COVID and Ukraine Aid (22:24-32:32) The Power of Relationships Across a Career (32:32-37:37) Autonomy Confidence and Knowing When to Explore (37:37-51:33) The DARPA Triage Challenge and Lessons That Last Chapter Summaries (00:54-07:11) From Rappelling Cadet to Innovating Army Nurse The guest traces her start as an ROTC cadet drawn in by students rappelling down a Philadelphia building, her commissioning as an Army nurse, and her first duty station at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Early mentors, including Colonel Graham and Major McGee, taught her that people truly come first and backed her instinct for innovation. On Ward 51 she built one of the first patient education centers in a military treatment facility while teaching herself websites, networking, and nursing informatics.   (07:11-16:48) Building the Nation's Public Health Response Teams Her NIH research on TPA for central line catheters was later adopted as best clinical practice, and she volunteered as an EMT and medic to learn field medicine. After moving to the U.S. Public Health Service for family stability, she answered the Surgeon General's call following 9/11 to build the nation's deployable response teams from concept to operation. Anthrax and zoonotic disease pulled public health into agriculture and food security across the federal enterprise.   (16:48-22:24) Biosurveillance Modeling COVID and Ukraine Aid Tasked to advise on detecting events and discerning intent, she leaned into probabilistic modeling and a long relationship with Carnegie Mellon's Auton Lab that began with a bus trip and a phone call. As Director of Population Health at the Defense Health Agency she modeled total force fitness, then was asked to model the effects of policy during COVID rather than the disease itself. The work forced coordination across agencies, departments, and services on a scale not seen since World War II.   (22:24-32:32) The Power of Relationships Across a Career Describing herself as an introvert, she explains why relationships are the engine of accomplishment, recalling a Ranger literally pushing her up a mountain during advanced camp after a car accident. Those bonds endured and resurfaced decades later in Texas during the DARPA Triage work. She recounts retiring out of Poland after 28 years, where she stood up a secure network to coordinate 26 non-doctrinal partners supporting aid to Ukraine.   (32:32-37:37) Autonomy Confidence and Knowing When to Explore She makes the case for military service as a path to clinical autonomy and the chance to think, decide, and do research that civilian roles often do not allow. She reflects on how to know when to pursue a new opportunity: trust your chain of command, negotiate and listen when you are the one in charge, and act on principles of doing no harm. Confidence, she says, means not being afraid to fail.   (37:37-51:33) The DARPA Triage Challenge and Lessons That Last She gives a plain-language tour of her team's autonomous triage work — payloads that read physiological state without touching a casualty, visual reasoning models tempered by Bayesian rigor, and platforms that deliver the right information to each echelon. Using a DoD-wide tobacco policy as a case study, she explains the art of the doable and building success on small wins. She closes with advice on confidence, integrity, and holding doors open for the next generation.   Take Home Messages Cross disciplines to scale care: The greatest gains often come from teaming up outside your own specialty. Pairing clinical insight with engineering, informatics, and operations lets a single provider extend capability and capacity far beyond what one profession can deliver alone. People first is a practice, not a slogan: Leaders who genuinely put people first earn the trust that makes hard missions possible. The example of a leader who recognized her team while facing her own serious illness shows that the principle is proven in action, not in words. Relationships are the engine of accomplishment: No one knows everything, and progress depends on the people willing to push you up the mountain. Networks built early endure for decades and can be called on when the mission needs them most. Define what success really looks like: Insisting on the perfect outcome can stall progress entirely; agreeing on the art of the doable moves the mission forward. Real success is often a series of small wins that build on one another over time. Confidence means not being afraid to fail: Growth lives outside the comfort zone, and everyone fails sometimes. Acting with honesty, integrity, and your best effort each day — then trusting tomorrow brings another chance — is what builds lasting confidence. Episode Keywords military medicine, Army nurse, military nursing, WarDocs, military medicine podcast, public health service, USPHS, DARPA Triage Challenge, autonomous triage, battlefield medicine, combat casualty care, Carnegie Mellon University, Auton Lab, nursing informatics, biosurveillance, COVID modeling, population health, Defense Health Agency, Walter Reed, military innovation, medical robotics, drone medicine, military mentorship, veteran leadership, military medical research Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #ArmyNurse, #PublicHealth, #BattlefieldMedicine, #DARPA, #MilitaryInnovation, #VeteranLeadership   Biography Dr. Kimberly Elenberg, a retired USPHS Captain, is the Director of Data and Mission Partner Sharing at ECS. A distinguished leader in biosurveillance and emergency response, she applies data science to enhance national security. Notably, she served as the incident response commander for modeling and analytics for the Secretary of Defense COVID Task Force. Previously, as a principal scientist at Carnegie Mellon University, she advanced autonomous systems for biosurveillance. Dr. Elenberg consistently bridges theoretical research with practical healthcare delivery, leveraging her clinical expertise and military discipline to safeguard public health. Her exceptional contributions have earned her several highly prestigious awards, including the 2022 Defense Superior Service Medal, the 2022 USPHS Distinguished Service Medal, and the 2020 National Emergency Preparedness Award for her outstanding operational acumen.         Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission- WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast    

Many Christians have been taught a version of American history that treats faith as an afterthought—or worse, a problem to overcome. But what if the story is more complicated than that? What if the men who shaped this nation regularly referenced Scripture, called for Christian virtue, and believed that faith was essential to preserving liberty? In this episode, we explore the often-forgotten Protestant heritage of America and why it matters for Christian fathers today. Not because America is perfect or worthy of worship, but because understanding the inheritance God has given us helps us teach our children with gratitude, wisdom, and truth. If you're shaping the culture of your home, this is a story worth knowing. Links in this Episode Revolution: https://amzn.to/4vZ4bP6  The Light and the Glory: https://amzn.to/4oCbGsK  Join our Online Community, UR: https://abrahamswallet.com/support/   AW Bootcamp: Aug 21-23 https://abrahamswallet.com/retreat/ Please partner with us in inspiring and equipping multi-gen families at https://abrahamswallet.com/support AW website Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Chapters (00:00:00) - America(00:01:19) - A Tiny Bit About Elon Musk's Trillion Dollar Wealth(00:04:37) - Don't Buy Any Individual Stock(00:06:44) - George Washington on Elon Musk(00:07:20) - A Short Talk About Small-Cap Stocks(00:08:00) - Americans' gratitude for their country(00:09:19) - The True Story of America(00:19:39) - Andrew Abramowitz on His Abrahamic Dad Retreat(00:20:20) - Let's Meet the Founders(00:24:33) - John Adams(00:27:01) - Visit Washington, D.C.(00:28:12) - Thomas Jefferson: A Modern Day Thomas Jefferson(00:33:12) - Patrick Henry and John Jay(00:35:11) - What is Christian nationalism?(00:38:23) - Christian Character in Our Nation(00:41:05) - God's Prudence in American History(00:48:12) - My Country... Tis of thee

Bret Baier, Chief Political Anchor for Fox News & Anchor of Special Report with Bret Baier, weeknights at 6pm & author of the NEW BOOK "The Case For America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation," joined us on the Guy Benson Show today to break down a bevy of topic. Baier and Benson broke down the importance to take time off of work in order to enjoy family time, why foreign soccer fans are "making the case for America" in affirming American greatness, the latest on the Iran MOU, and MORE! Listen to the full interview below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

   In this episode of WarDocs, Army Deputy Surgeon General Dr. Lance Raney discusses the past, present, and future of military medicine. The conversation begins with Dr. Raney's early journey from a collegiate scholarship athlete to a Family Medicine physician, exploring how his clinical roots in "small-town" Army medicine established the decision-making framework necessary for high-level strategic leadership. Drawing on his experience as a Brigade Surgeon with the 172nd Stryker Combat Team in Iraq, Dr. Raney emphasizes the life-saving importance of empowering medics at the point of injury and the necessity of critical thinking in the face of unexpected clinical challenges.    The dialogue then shifts to the complexities of the current military healthcare landscape, particularly the transition to the Defense Health Agency and the integration of medical readiness with healthcare delivery. Dr. Raney provides a candid look at the challenges of navigating systemic changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of MHS GENESIS, noting that leadership through influence is now more vital than ever. He shares a personal and powerful account of his time at Womack Army Medical Center, discussing how patience and trust in the military justice system reinforced his commitment to servant leadership and organizational resilience.    A major focus of the episode is the Army's strategic pivot toward Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO). Dr. Raney details how the "Golden Hour" of evacuation is being replaced by the reality of prolonged field care, requiring a fundamental overhaul of medical training. He explains the expansion of the Army paramedic program and the development of high-tech solutions like Artificial Intelligence for triage and decision support. These innovations are designed to augment the front-line provider's ability to manage casualties in austere, communication-denied environments where resources are strictly limited.    Finally, Dr. Raney offers profound career advice for the next generation of healthcare professionals. He encourages students and young officers to become the experts their patients expect and to seek "Purpose Plus"—the unique fulfillment found in serving the extended family of the American soldier. By focusing on legacy and the impact left in others, Dr. Raney illustrates why military medicine remains one of the most rewarding paths a clinician can choose. Chapters (00:00-06:28) Foundations of a Career in Army Medicine (06:29-11:04) The Clinical Roots of Strategic Leadership (11:05-17:40) Lessons in Combat Casualty Care (17:41-31:35) Command Philosophy and Navigating Systemic Transitions (31:36-45:47) Preparing for Large-Scale Combat Operations and the Role of AI (45:48-50:52) Advice for the Next Generation and Finding Your Purpose Chapter Summaries (00:00-06:28) Foundations of a Career in Army Medicine: Dr. Raney details his path from a lifeguard and ROTC cadet to becoming a Family Medicine physician. He shares how he came to view the Army as his "small town" where everyone shares a common mission and community. (06:29-11:04) The Clinical Roots of Strategic Leadership: The discussion centers on how high-volume primary care at Fort Sill developed the critical decision-making skills needed for senior leadership. Dr. Raney explains how clinical encounters taught him to synthesize information and negotiate solutions under pressure. (11:05-17:40) Lessons in Combat Casualty Care: Reflecting on his deployment to Iraq, Dr. Raney emphasizes the life-saving impact of well-trained medics at the point of injury. He recounts a specific junctional injury save that demonstrated the importance of critical thinking over rote skill repetition. (17:41-31:35) Command Philosophy and Navigating Systemic Transitions: This segment covers Dr. Raney's experience commanding large medical centers and his time as a liaison during the Defense Health Agency transition. He discusses the challenges of separating healthcare from readiness and the personal lessons learned while trusting the system during a difficult investigation. (31:36-45:47) Preparing for Large Scale Combat Operations and the Role of AI: The conversation shifts to the strategic preparations for LSCO, where the traditional "Golden Hour" may no longer exist. Dr. Raney explores the expansion of paramedic training and the potential for AI to assist in triage and clinical decision support on the battlefield. (45:48-50:52) Advice for the Next Generation and Finding Your Purpose: To conclude, Dr. Raney offers career advice focused on achieving clinical expertise and finding "Purpose Plus" within the military. He shares his hope of leaving a legacy through the people he has trained and the lives he has touched. Take Home Messages Master Your Craft: Becoming an expert in your specific clinical field is the fundamental requirement for all military medical professionals. True education happens after residency when you apply your skills to real-world patient outcomes and learn from continuity of care. Lead to Purpose: Leadership should not be about the commander but about enabling others to own their piece of the mission. When a team understands their purpose, they move from just doing a job to providing meaningful interventions that change lives. Prepare for Prolonged Care: In future conflicts, the luxury of rapid evacuation will be limited, requiring medical teams to hold patients for much longer durations. Success will depend on the individual's ability to think critically and utilize limited resources in the face of unsolvable problems. Embrace Systemic Ownership: Tactical problems are often best solved by those at the tactical level rather than waiting for higher headquarters to provide a solution. Understanding that resources are finite at the strategic level empowers local leaders to take initiative and resolve issues independently. Seek Purpose Plus: Serving in the military provides a unique opportunity to practice medicine on an "extended family" that shares your core values. This sense of shared purpose turns the daily grind into a lifelong mission of service to the nation and its warriors.   Episode Keywords Army Medicine, Dr. Lance Raney, Military Medicine, WarDocs Podcast, LSCO, Large Scale Combat Operations, Combat Casualty Care, Prolonged Field Care, Army Surgeon General, Defense Health Agency, DHA Transition, Medical Readiness, Combat Medic Training, Paramedic Program, TCCC, Leadership Philosophy, Army Family Medicine, Battlefield Trauma, Medical AI, Triage Technology, Military Healthcare, Army ROTC, HPSP, Tactical Medicine, Operational Readiness, Clinical Excellence, MHS Governance. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #ArmyStrong, #WarDocs, #Leadership, #CombatCasualtyCare, #MedicalReadiness, #LSCO, #MedEd   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission- WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast        

Col Valerie Sams, MD is an Air Force trauma surgeon, surgical critical care expert, and the Director of the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS) at the University of Cincinnati. Her path to the operating room was anything but ordinary.   Before medical school, she served as an Air Force line officer in logistics and fuels, learning how the operational side of the service actually works at the flight line. That bilingual fluency in operations and medicine now shapes how she advocates for resources, leads hospitals, and prepares the military health system for the next fight.    In this conversation, she walks through her two tours as the trauma czar at the Bagram role three hospital straight out of fellowship, where she was responsible not only for clinical excellence but for leading every nurse, emergency medicine physician, and surgeon doing trauma care across the theater. She talks honestly about the weight of that role, especially during her second deployment with junior surgeons on their first downrange experience, the rise in U.S. casualties, the green-on-blue threat, and her work standing up Medic-X as a force multiplier for limited deployed medical crews.     Col Sams makes a powerful case for the strategic importance of military-civilian partnerships like C-STARS, the only Air Force critical care air transport advanced training course, and explains how the Air Force, Army, and Navy are converging through the Joint Trauma System, the Mission Zero Act, and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book to professionalize military-civilian integration. She is direct about the skill sustainment crisis inside military treatment facilities, the shift from 65 percent beneficiary care to 20 percent, the urgency of the Military Unique Curriculum, and the need to train outside-the-tent skills deliberately rather than by accident.   Dr. Sams lays out a clear-eyed vision for large-scale combat operations: faster trauma registry feedback loops, autonomous and decision support tools, closed-loop control ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and a hard end to the wax pencil and TCCC card as battlefield documentation. She closes with what should remain the center of gravity for every military medicine decision — the warfighter — and the conviction that they deserve the best clinical care available anywhere in the country.     Chapters (00:47-05:47) From Fuels Officer to Trauma Surgeon (05:47-12:49) Two Tours as Trauma Czar at Bagram (12:49-24:46) ECMO Forward, C-STARS, and the Skill Sustainment Crisis (24:46-35:42) Joint Military-Civilian Integration and the Military Unique Curriculum (35:42-49:26) LSCO Readiness, Force Multiplication, and Battlefield Technology (49:26-58:30) Female Leadership, Clinical Excellence, and Legacy     Chapter Summaries (00:47-05:47) From Fuels Officer to Trauma Surgeon Col Sams describes her unconventional path from Air Force line officer in logistics and fuels to general surgery and trauma fellowship. She credits her operational background with giving her a bilingual fluency between line and medical worlds that strengthens how she advocates for resources, leads hospital operations, and earns credibility with non-medical commanders.   (05:47-12:49) Two Tours as Trauma Czar at Bagram She unpacks the weight of deploying as the trauma czar at the Bagram Role 3 immediately after her fellowship and the lessons that came from leading mass casualty events, debriefing young teams, and dealing with the green-on-blue threat. She explains the stand-up of Medic-X under Lt Gen Hogg as a deliberate force multiplier for limited deployed medical crews.   (12:49-24:46) ECMO Forward, C-STARS, and the Skill Sustainment Crisis Col Sams details her work projecting ECMO capability into austere environments and around the globe, then explains the mission, history, and structure of the three original C-STARS programs. She is direct about the skill sustainment crisis, with beneficiary care in military treatment facilities dropping from roughly 65 percent to 20 percent over two decades.   (24:46-35:42) Joint Military-Civilian Integration and the Military Unique Curriculum She describes the progress driven by the Mission Zero Act, the Joint Trauma System military-civilian work group, and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book. She makes the case for a robust Military Unique Curriculum that develops both surgical fundamentals and the outside-the-tent skills that today's young military surgeons need before they take their first leadership role downrange.   (35:42-49:26) LSCO Readiness, Force Multiplication, and Battlefield Technology Col Sams turns to large-scale combat operations and the blind spots that the counterinsurgency generation may carry into the next fight. She calls for faster trauma registry feedback, autonomous decision support tools, closed-loop ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and a hard end to the TCCC wax pencil as the primary battlefield documentation tool.   (49:26-58:30) Female Leadership, Clinical Excellence, and Legacy She offers candid advice to young female military surgeons on imposter syndrome, unconscious bias, and the discipline of staying clinically excellent. She closes with the conviction that patient-centered leadership, lifelong learning, and protecting clinical talent are the foundations of how military medicine should remember her work.     Take Home Messages Operational Fluency Strengthens Medical Leadership: Time spent on the line side of the military — understanding logistics, fuels, and how the operational force actually fights — builds credibility with non-medical commanders and sharpens advocacy for resources. Surgeons who speak the operational language sit at the right tables and make better decisions for their teams and their patients.   The Trauma Czar Role Demands Leadership Before Stride: Being responsible for an entire theater of combat casualty care immediately after fellowship is a heavy and unforgiving assignment. Clinical excellence is the floor; the real work is leading nurses, emergency medicine physicians, and surgeons through mass casualty events, debriefs, and the green-on-blue threat with junior teammates who have never deployed before.   Skill Sustainment Requires Military-Civilian Partnership: Military treatment facilities now deliver only a fraction of the beneficiary care they once did, and that volume cannot sustain combat-ready trauma teams. Embedded military-civilian partnerships like C-STARS, supported by the Mission Zero Act and the American College of Surgeons Blue Book, are the realistic path to keep wartime skills sharp.   Outside-the-Tent Skills Must Be Deliberately Trained: Today's young military surgeons need more than technical readiness. They need a deliberate Military Unique Curriculum that develops the non-clinical leadership skills required to run a theater trauma system, manage resources, and lead teams under pressure. Picking those skills up on the fly is no longer good enough.   LSCO Will Not Wait on the Wax Pencil: The next fight will not give the medical force three years to figure out what changed or seven years to update clinical practice guidelines. Force multiplication through MedicX, autonomous decision support tools, closed-loop ventilation, ECMO projected forward, and modern battlefield documentation are non-negotiable investments now, before large-scale combat operations force the lesson.   Col Valerie Sams, MD Biography    Colonel Valerie Sams is the Director of the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (CSTARS) Cincinnati and serves as Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCAT) Training cadre. Originally from Georgetown, KY, she was commissioned into the Air Force in 2000, initially serving as a supply and logistics officer, which included a deployment supporting Stabilization Forces in the Balkans.    Transitioning to medicine, she earned her medical degree from St. George's University in 2008. Col Sams completed her General Surgery Residency at the University of Tennessee Medical Center (2013) and a Trauma Critical Care fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center (2015).    As a trauma surgeon and ECMO physician, Col Sams deployed twice as the Trauma Czar for Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. Her extensive leadership roles include Trauma Medical Director, Assistant Chief of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Ground Surgical Team Pilot Unit Leader, and director of various military trauma research programs.   Episode Keywords WarDocs, military medicine, military trauma surgery, combat casualty care, trauma czar, Bagram role three, Air Force trauma surgeon, C-STARS Cincinnati, critical care air transport, CCATT, Joint Trauma System, military civilian partnership, Mission Zero Act, military unique curriculum, large scale combat operations, LSCO, prolonged casualty care, MedicX, ECMO in combat, battlefield documentation, TCCC card, closed loop ventilation, military medical leadership   Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #CombatCasualtyCare, #TraumaSurgery, #JointTraumaSystem, #LSCOReadiness, #CSTARS, #MilCivPartnership   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine    WarDocs exists to honor the legacy of Military Medicine, preserve its history, and inspire every generation — across all Services, Corps, and Ranks — to serve with excellence and pride. Through mentorship, coaching, and education, we equip those considering, entering, and serving in military medicine with the knowledge, connections, and community they need to thrive. We celebrate Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

We cover 9 huge stories today. We would like to take a moment to wish all of our great Veterans a Happy Memorial Day, who gave their all so we could be free. Getting to spend time with my 91-year-old Vietnam Vet Dad, who was the only one who came back from Vietnam from College his friends, is very much appreciated, and it helps me be more grateful for the currently deployed great members of our military.Make no mistake - if the deal is done without the Venezuelan-style controls in place, it just means that the IRGC will be back again like a bad dream or an ex-wife.1. Iran Nuclear Deal & Strait of HormuzThe podcast opens with discussion of potential negotiations between the US and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Key points include:President Trump's efforts to broker a deal that could reopen the strait for 30-60 daysConcerns about financial controls over Iranian oil to prevent funding of proxy fightersThe IRGC's establishment of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority and their territorial claimsLNG tankers turning off transponders and navigating around the strait2. US LNG Exports & Natural Gas DemandExtensive coverage of America's energy export capabilities:The US is now the world's top LNG exporter with 11.9-14.9 BCF per day in 2024-2025Projections show exports doubling to 30 BCF per day by 2050Major projects like Cheniere Energy's Corpus Christi expansionThe technology that shrinks natural gas molecules 600 times for transport3. AI in Oil & Gas IndustryDiscussion of AI's transformative potential:AI could unlock $500 billion for oil and gas producers by 2030Emphasis on the need for accountability, validation, and explainability in AI implementationReal-world example: ADNOC reported $500 million in AI-driven revenueThe importance of data orchestration and legacy system integration4. Germany's Energy Crisis & DeindustrializationCritical analysis of Germany's net-zero policies:Germany's decision to shut down nuclear and coal plants has backfiredReal GDP contracted 3% in 2023 and 2% in 2024Volkswagen considering closing three German plants with 30,000+ layoffsComparison to similar policies in California and New York5. Ukraine War & Russian Oil InfrastructureBrief coverage of ongoing conflict impacts:Russian Black Sea oil port attacked by dronesDiscussion of the need to end the Ukraine warCalls for Ukrainian leadership change6. Jamie Dimon's Economic WarningsDiscussion of JPMorgan CEO's concerns:$5-6 trillion in leveraged corporate debt facing refinancing challengesParallels drawn to 2005-2007 financial crisisConcerns about equity values and market stressCommentary on the Federal Reserve's role and structure7. Jones Act & US ShippingDiscussion of maritime policy:Jones Act waiver creating opportunities for foreign tankersNeed for US-built tankers and shipyardsCritique of relying on foreign solutions to domestic energy crises8. Permian Basin ActivityCoverage of oil and gas M&A activity:Deal-making surge in the Delaware BasinDevon Energy's major acquisition of undeveloped acresImportance of oil and gas royalties for local communities9. Stock Analysis & Market TrendsTechnical analysis of energy sector stocks including:Nano Nuclear Energy (NNE)Devon EnergyCheniere EnergyChevronLiberty EnergyExxon MobilThe podcast emphasizes energy independence, the importance of reliable energy sources, and skepticism toward certain net-zero policies while advocating for balanced energy solutions.1.Good News but not Final News on the Iran War and Re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz2.QatarEnergy's Third LNG Tanker Exits the Strait of Hormuz Amid Fragile Diplomacy and Iranian Oversight3.What Does the Demand for Natural Gas and LNG Look Like for the Next 20 Years?4.AI Could Unlock $500 Billion for Oil and Gas Producers by 2030 — But Only with Accountability5.WSJ Writes – If the Road to Economic Hell is paved with Good Intentions, don't expect to see German Cars driving on it6.Russia's Key Black Sea Oil Port on Fire After Drone Attack: Grushovaya Terminal Hit in Latest Ukrainian Strike7.Jamie Dimon Warns of Serious Risks: US Economic Vulnerabilities, Fed Rates, Debt Refinancing Crunch, and Real Estate Implications8.The Jones Act Waiver has Turned Into a Boon for California at Our Nation's Expense9.There's a Party Going on in the Permian Delaware – Reese Energy ConsultingCheck out the Energy News Beat SubStack https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/A shout-out to Steve Reese and the Reese Energy Consulting group for sponsoring the Podcast https://reeseenergyconsulting.com/.Data2 if you have any business systems, can you trust A? Well, they have the patent on validation. . https://data2.zoholandingpage.com/energyAnd we have WellDatabase rolling in as a new sponsor. https://welldatabase.com/

Talmage Boston holds a live cross-examination style interview of Bret Baier, host of Special Report with Bret Baier on the Fox News Channel and chief political anchor for Fox, on his newest book The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.

   In this episode of WarDocs, Dr. David Hilmers, a retired Marine Colonel, four-time NASA Space Shuttle astronaut, and dual-trained physician in internal medicine and pediatrics offers a sweeping perspective on what it means to apply hard-won lessons from space exploration, global infectious disease response, and humanitarian medicine to the pressing challenges facing military medicine today.    Dr. Hilmers traces a career that began with a chance bulletin posted in Japan advertising NASA's new astronaut program. With an aviation background and advanced degrees in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, he applied on a whim and spent twelve years at NASA — flying the first mission of Atlantis, the first post-Challenger flight, two classified DOD missions, and a scientific mission just before starting medical school. After retiring from the astronaut corps, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of medicine, completing a dual residency before dedicating subsequent decades to sub-Saharan HIV, Ebola response in Liberia, malnutrition research, refugee health in Bangladeshi camps, and hepatitis B elimination across the Pacific.     The conversation covers the parallel demands of deep space medicine and austere combat environments — both defined by communication blackouts, limited resources, and the need for expert decision-support without a physician readily available. Dr. Hilmers describes his consultancy work for NASA on Earth-independent medical operations using mixed reality and large language models, and explains how these same AI-driven tools represent a critical force multiplier for a special forces medic, Navy corpsman, or Space Force guardian operating in denied or degraded environments.    He introduces the knapsack problem — a NASA-developed optimization framework that balances mission requirements against the mass, volume, power, and training cost of medical equipment — and argues persuasively that this model is directly applicable to the prolonged field care challenge posed by large-scale ground combat operations (LSCO). As the golden hour becomes a relic of counterinsurgency-era warfare, AI-powered kit optimization and just-in-time procedural training become existential requirements, not enhancements.     On wearable technology, Dr. Hilmers articulates a layered, agentic-AI approach to battlefield health monitoring — smart garments, sweat sensors, tactical watches, smart rings, helmet concussion dosimeters, and hearables — all operating under strict emissions control, with edge computing that pushes actionable alerts to the individual soldier without requiring eyes on a screen. The real holy grail is seamless integration into situational awareness networks that give squad leaders and brigade commanders real-time readiness data.      Dr. Hilmers closes with a frank assessment of soft power: the withdrawal of USAID and PEPFAR funding has ceded influence in the Pacific and across the developing world to China, with projected millions of preventable deaths. He calls on military medicine to lead humanitarian engagement as both a moral imperative and a strategic tool. His final advice to young military medicine professionals — dare to be more than you think you can be, and know that it is never too late to reinvent yourself — distills a life of uncommon service into a single, actionable mandate.   Chapters (00:00:00-00:01:44) Introduction: From Aviator to Astronaut to Academic Physician (00:01:45-00:06:25) AI Tools for Austere Environments: Space, Combat, and Remote Medicine (00:06:26-00:13:19) Lessons from Ebola, Refugee Camps, and Global Infectious Disease (00:13:20-00:18:49) The Knapsack Problem: Optimizing Medical Kits for Prolonged Field Care (00:18:50-00:27:16) Wearable Technology and the Digital Twin Warfighter (00:27:17-00:31:18) Bench to Battlefield: Academia, Industry, Military Collaboration and Closing Advice Chapter Summaries (00:00:00-00:01:44) Introduction: From Aviator to Astronaut to Academic Physician Dr. Hilmers recounts a career trajectory shaped by opportunism and determination. Drafted-era military service led to Marine aviation, graduate engineering degrees at the Naval Postgraduate School, and a chance NASA application while stationed in Japan. Twelve years as an astronaut on four Space Shuttle missions gave way to the long-deferred dream of medicine — a dual residency and decades of academic and humanitarian work that followed.   (00:01:45-00:06:25) AI Tools for Austere Environments: Space, Combat, and Remote Medicine Dr. Hilmers draws direct parallels between deep space medical operations and combat or remote-area medicine: limited communications, absence of ground-based expert support, and the demand for just-in-time training. His NASA consultancy work on Earth-independent medical operations using mixed reality and large language models maps directly onto the needs of a corpsman, special forces medic, or Space Force guardian in a denied environment.   (00:06:26-00:13:19) Lessons from Ebola, Refugee Camps, and Global Infectious Disease The Liberia Ebola response revealed the fatal flaw of large, fixed treatment units in an outbreak that moved dynamically across the country. That lesson produced the EZ Pod — a collapsible, helicopter-transportable isolation unit developed at Baylor. Experience in Bangladeshi Rohingya refugee camps reinforced the life-saving power of vaccination and the growing threat of climate-driven disease migration. The core lesson: enter a community to ask what is needed, not to impose solutions.   (00:13:20-00:18:49) The Knapsack Problem: Optimizing Medical Kits for Prolonged Field Care Drawn from NASA mission planning, the knapsack problem is a systematic optimization of medical kit contents against the probability, fatality, and resource cost of each anticipated condition. Dr. Hilmers argues this framework is essential as LSCO scenarios eliminate the golden hour and require prolonged casualty care in the field. AI is positioned as the engine that can dynamically optimize triage decisions, antibiotic allocation, and resource sequencing in real time.   (00:18:50-00:27:16) Wearable Technology and the Digital Twin Warfighter A layered ecosystem of smart garments, sweat sensors, tactical watches, smart rings, helmet concussion dosimeters, and hearables can create a real-time digital twin of the individual soldier and the collective readiness of a unit. The critical design constraints are EMCON compliance, MIL-SPEC durability, edge computing without internet dependency, and seamless integration into situational awareness networks from the squad level to the brigade. The holy grail is actionable data pushed to the soldier without requiring eyes off the mission.   (00:27:17-00:31:18) Bench to Battlefield: Academia, Industry, Military Collaboration and Closing Advice Effective innovation requires continuous, bottom-up communication among academia, industry, and the military — and that means all three groups must get their hands dirty in field testing. Dr. Hilmers cautions against fitting a "sexy AI application" to a problem it does not solve. His closing message to young military medicine professionals: take every opportunity the military offers, dare to exceed your own expectations, and know that reinvention is always possible.       Take Home Messages Austere Environments Share a Common Medical Playbook: Whether the setting is a spacecraft bound for Mars, a combat forward operating base, or a refugee camp in Bangladesh, the medical challenges converge: degraded communications, absent specialist support, and the need for expert clinical decision-making at the point of care. Building systems — AI tools, training protocols, or equipment kits — that address these shared demands creates solutions with broad applicability across military and humanitarian contexts.   Optimize the Kit Before the Mission, Not During the Crisis: The knapsack problem is an operational imperative. Every gram of medical equipment displaces something else, and every gap in the kit becomes a potential fatality during prolonged casualty care. AI-driven optimization of medical kit contents against mission-specific risk profiles must become a standard pre-deployment process, especially as LSCO eliminates the expectation of rapid evacuation.   Just-in-Time Training Is a Force Multiplier, Not a Substitute for Preparation: AI-enabled procedural guidance at the point of care — showing a corpsman exactly how to perform a cricothyrotomy in the moment it is required — can bridge lethal knowledge gaps in combat. This capability augments, it does not replace, rigorous pre-deployment training. The human must remain in the loop; AI is an advisor, not a commander.   Wearable Technology Only Delivers Value When Integrated Into the Fight: A smart ring that predicts illness or a helmet sensor that quantifies blast exposure generates no operational value if the data is not actionable at the point of decision. Battlefield wearables must operate under strict emissions control, function without internet connectivity, perform edge computing locally, and surface alerts to the soldier or commander seamlessly — without requiring eyes off the mission. The integration challenge is harder than the sensor challenge.   Military Humanitarian Medicine Is Both a Moral Obligation and a Strategic Asset: Soft power is not a secondary mission — it is a strategic instrument. Withdrawal from programs like USAID and PEPFAR cedes influence to adversaries in every region where that presence is abandoned. Military medicine, with its global footprint, logistical capacity, and trained personnel, is uniquely positioned to demonstrate that American warfighters can be both deadly and compassionate. Investing in military humanitarian medicine builds alliances that firepower alone cannot secure.   Dr. Hilmers Biography    David C. Hilmers, MD, EE, MPH, MSEE, is a multifaceted physician, professor, and former NASA astronaut with a diverse career spanning aerospace medicine, international humanitarian relief, and military service. A faculty member at Baylor College of Medicine since 1999, he currently works as an academic hospitalist in Houston, Texas. His clinical and research expertise focuses heavily on infectious diseases, global health, and optimizing medical care for deep-space exploration. Deeply committed to volunteer medical service, he and his wife serve as medical leaders for the NGO Hepatitis B Free. He has delivered critical humanitarian and disaster relief across more than 50 countries, providing care in conflict zones like Ukraine and Iraq, and during severe disease outbreaks.    Before his medical career, he served 20 years as a U.S. Marine Corps aviator and electrical engineer, retiring as a Colonel. He flew on four space shuttle missions and was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2024. Episode Keywords military medicine, David Hilmers, NASA astronaut, Marine aviator, combat casualty care, prolonged field care, LSCO, large scale combat operations, knapsack problem, AI military medicine, artificial intelligence battlefield, wearable technology warfighter, digital twin soldier, just-in-time medical training, bench to battlefield, austere environment medicine, humanitarian medicine military, Ebola response, global health military, WarDocs podcast Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #NASAAstronaut, #CombatCasualtycare, #ProlongedFieldCare, #BenchToBattlefield, #WearableTechnology, #ArtificialIntelligence   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the "What We Are For" Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

Ryan talks with Fox News Chief Political Anchor Bret Baier about his new book, The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.

Ryan talks with Fox News Chief Political Anchor Bret Baier about his new book, The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newt talks with Bret Baier, Chief Political Anchor of Fox News Channel and the anchor and executive editor of Special Report with Bret Baier, about his new book, “The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation.” Baier makes the case that the United States remains resilient and exceptional despite its flaws. He draws heavily on six presidents, George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, and Ronald Reagan, to describe American resilience, leadership, and optimism. He argues that the Declaration of Independence was a courageous, high-risk act that defined the nation’s core truths: choosing unity despite dissent, serving as a beacon of freedom, demonstrating a unique capacity for resilience, and remaining a land of opportunity. Their discussion extends to the founders’ disagreements, the risk they faced in signing the Declaration, and the evolution of American political rivalry and reconciliation, exemplified by the bitter split and later warm correspondence between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Turning to contemporary politics, Baier contends that the upcoming America 250th celebration offers a chance to rebuild shared civic affection across ideological lines by acknowledging both the country’s problems and its strengths.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of the Build Blue Podcast, Carrie Flanagan sits down with Dr. Bethel Balge, Executive Director of the Mankato Symphony Orchestra, and Ernesto Estigarribia Mussi, Music Director, for a conversation about the power of music, community connection, and the impact the arts have on shaping stronger communities. They also share insight into the Mankato Symphony Orchestra's Soundtrack of Our Nation, happening Saturday, May 9, at 7:00 PM at Ted Paul Theatre in Mankato. If you've ever wondered how creativity, culture, and collaboration help bring communities together, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Listen to the latest episode of the Build Blue Podcast and discover the stories shaping our communities, beyond the build. #BuildBlue #BuildBluePodcast #MankatoSymphony #RootedInTheCommunity #CommunityConnections #SoundtrackOfOurNation 

Corporate prayer and national repentance have shaped history, and Scripture like Jonah 3:10 reveals how God responds when people turn to Him together. Praying as a nation isn’t symbolic—it’s a powerful, biblical practice that invites God’s mercy, guidance, and restoration. This devotional highlights how God has consistently responded to unified, humble prayer—from the city of Nineveh to moments in American history. When people come together, set aside differences, and seek God collectively, it reflects dependence on Him rather than self-sufficiency. National prayer isn’t about politics or performance—it’s about hearts aligning with God, turning from sin, and trusting Him to lead, heal, and sustain a nation. Just as individuals are called to pray, communities and countries are invited to do the same. Highlights God responds to corporate prayer and genuine repentance Biblical examples show entire cities and nations turning to God together Unity in prayer reflects humility and dependence on God National prayer invites God’s mercy, healing, and direction Spiritual battles require spiritual responses—not just physical solutions Setting aside differences for prayer strengthens collective faith Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Why Praying As a Nation Matters to God By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, He relented and did not bring on them the destruction He had threatened.” - Jonah 3:10 As America celebrates 250 years as a nation, some ask, does it matter if our nation prays together on the National Day of Prayer? Does God even pay attention to or hear us when we pray corporately as a nation? The answer is “yes”: it matters to God, and we can be assured of this because the Bible provides plenty of evidence that He often calls us to corporate prayer for a city or a nation. Most of us are familiar with the well-known biblical passage 2 Chronicles 7:14, which says, “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” As in the story of Jonah and the wicked city of Nineveh, God called for the entire city to pray and repent, and even the animals were included in the city’s prayer, fasting, and repentance. As Jonah 3:4-8 describes, God led an entire city to repentance through corporate prayer: “Jonah began by going a day’s journey into the city, proclaiming, ‘Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.’ The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh: ‘By the decree of the king and his nobles: Do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from His fierce anger so that we will not perish.” In Jonah 3:10, we read of God’s gracious response to their corporate prayer: He relented rather than sending destruction. Likewise, looking back at America’s Founders, we see that they recognized the importance of corporate prayer and that establishing a nation’s future doesn’t just involve fighting a physical battle for victory, but also a spiritual one. They demonstrated this when they officially met and came together for the first time on September 7, 1774, as the Continental Congress of the United States, opening with prayer and the reading of Psalm 35 by Rev. Jacob Duché, which begins with, “Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me.” This was no easy feat, either, as the outspoken members had to set aside their denominational differences to pray together, uniting members who were Congregationalists, Anglicans, Quakers, Dutch Reformed, Baptists, Lutherans, Puritans, and Presbyterians, coming together to overlook their differences, joining in one accord, praying for a common goal. American Conservative radio talk-show host and writer, Dennis Prager, explains, “Ultimately, they wanted people to be free to practice their religion and relate to God in their own way. They all knew God is the source of liberty.” Providence Forum Executive Director Dr. Jerry Newcombe points out how historians find in George Washington’s writings and actions during the Revolutionary War that he relied heavily on prayer, believing that with the tremendous odds set against them, victory could only come with God’s help. As well, “The Great Awakening absolutely helped the cause of independence,” writes Newcombe. “Even before the Great Awakening, the ministers, especially the ones from New England, helped shape the thinking of the Colonists as to their God-given rights.” Christian historians believe the spread of “The Great Awakening” across the colonies greatly influenced and strengthened Patriot leaders leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, during which prayer and fasting played a critical role in helping America establish its freedom. In Miracles in American History, author, historian, and speaker William J. Federer writes about the many national calls to prayer leading up to and throughout the formation of the United States of America. Intersecting Faith & Life:Are you planning to join our nation in praying for God’s divine guidance and protection over our country? If not, consider praying with millions of believers across our land who will be praying together during this year’s 250th Anniversary, National Day of Prayer. Further Reading:A Prayer to Take Part in Our Nation’s National Day of Prayer Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

      Dr. Paul D. Biddinger, Chief Preparedness and Continuity Officer at Mass General Brigham and one of the nation's foremost authorities on disaster medicine, joins WarDocs to deliver an unflinching assessment of the United States' readiness to manage mass battlefield casualties in a large-scale combat operations (LSCO) scenario.     Drawing on nearly 30 years as a practicing emergency physician, his leadership of the National Special Pathogen System, and his co-PI role on a Henry M. Jackson Foundation-funded LSCO readiness project, Dr. Biddinger illuminates the critical gaps — and the urgent solutions — that will determine whether Team America can meet the medical demands of tomorrow's wars.       The conversation opens with Dr. Biddinger's distinctive academic trajectory: international relations and public policy at Princeton before medical school, a combination that instilled a deep appreciation for the policy infrastructure that either enables or obstructs effective healthcare coalitions. That framework shapes his entire approach to LSCO readiness, where the challenge is never a single hospital or a single physician — it is always the system.  Dr. Biddinger identifies data silos as the foundational failure threatening LSCO response.    The civilian healthcare system is already operating at or above capacity in most American cities, and the Federal Coordinating Centers within the National Disaster Medical System lack the real-time clinical expertise needed to make sophisticated patient regulation decisions. He argues for urgent integration of civilian-side patient transfer intelligence with military command structures — ensuring that warfighters returning home at scale are routed to the right bed, with the right subspecialty capability, rather than flooding Level I trauma centers and displacing civilian critical care.      The Ukraine conflict provides sobering real-world data: drone-driven injury patterns unfamiliar to most civilian trauma surgeons, extended evacuation timelines that demand adaptive point-of-injury care, and an overwhelmed rehabilitation pipeline that the U.S. system is wholly unprepared to replicate. Dr. Biddinger draws direct parallels to the Boston Marathon bombing response, where tactical combat casualty care principles — rapid hemorrhage control, aggressive patient distribution, and relentless questioning of old-school disaster assumptions — saved lives that a conventional mass casualty protocol would have lost.                       The episode closes with two pieces of career advice for young military medicine professionals: question every assumption respectfully and within proper command structures, and be a passionate, data-driven advocate for systems change. The Joint Trauma System's continuous learn-and-adapt model is held up as the gold standard. Dr. Biddinger's message is clear — the next large-scale conflict will be won or lost in part by how effectively military and civilian medicine learn to speak the same operational language before the shooting starts.   Chapters (00:00-02:30) From International Relations to Emergency Medicine: Building Systems-Level Thinking (02:30-07:37) LSCO Readiness Gaps: Data, Capacity, and the Civilian Healthcare System (07:37-13:58) Federal Coordination, Ukraine Lessons, and the Rehabilitation Crisis (13:58-19:24) AI, Heat Injury Prevention, and Patient Surge Load Balancing (19:24-26:30) National Special Pathogen System and All-Hazard Response Leadership (26:30-38:40) Boston Marathon Bombing Lessons, Innovation Culture, and the Future of Military Medicine   Chapter Summaries (00:00-02:30) From International Relations to Emergency Medicine: Building Systems-Level Thinking Dr. Biddinger traces his unconventional path from Princeton's international relations program to nearly 30 years as a practicing emergency physician. He explains how policy training shaped his conviction that no individual doctor or hospital succeeds in isolation — effective disaster response is fundamentally a systems problem, and the policy infrastructure surrounding those systems determines everything.   (02:30-07:37) LSCO Readiness Gaps: Data, Capacity, and the Civilian Healthcare System Drawing on his Henry M. Jackson Foundation LSCO project, Dr. Biddinger identifies the civilian healthcare system's chronic overcapacity as the primary threat to absorbing mass battlefield casualties. He quantifies the challenge — a hundred thousand extra patients over a hundred days — and explains why real-time data integration across hospital systems, state lines, and trauma center capabilities is the non-negotiable foundation of any viable patient distribution plan. He specifically flags EMS workforce shortages as an underappreciated rate-limiting factor.   (07:37-13:58) Federal Coordination, Ukraine Lessons, and the Rehabilitation Crisis Dr. Biddinger critiques the current Federal Coordinating Center structure as insufficiently connected to civilian-side clinical expertise, and calls for direct integration of military command data with civilian patient tracking systems. He applies lessons from the Ukraine conflict — drone injury patterns, extended evacuation timelines, and rehabilitation system collapse — to underscore how fundamentally different LSCO will be from the counter-insurgency environments most current military medical leaders trained in.   (13:58-19:24) AI, Heat Injury Prevention, and Patient Surge Load Balancing Dr. Biddinger describes his IBM Sustainability Accelerator collaboration developing AI-driven early warning systems for extreme heat events, and explains how that same data integration logic applies to battlefield thermal stress monitoring and real-time casualty tracking via the Joint Trauma System. He then walks through the COVID-era Boston hospital load-balancing system he helped build — competitive hospitals sharing real-time bed and ICU data and making collaborative surge decisions multiple times daily — and explores how that model translates to theater patient regulation.   (19:24-26:30) National Special Pathogen System and All-Hazard Response Leadership Dr. Biddinger explains the tiered architecture of the National Special Pathogen System — the infectious disease analog to the trauma center hierarchy — and its identify-isolate-inform framework, developed from the 2014 West African Ebola outbreak. He applies the framework directly to military medicine, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high clinical suspicion, knowing real-time global outbreak data, and preserving robust reach-back capability to specialty expertise. He closes with field lessons from Hurricane Katrina, Nepal earthquake response, and the Haiti earthquake on integrating civilian and military assets under ESF-8 and WHO cluster structures.   (26:30-38:40) Boston Marathon Bombing Lessons, Innovation Culture, and the Future of Military Medicine Dr. Biddinger credits tactical combat casualty care principles from Gulf War I and II for the lives saved at the Boston Marathon bombing, specifically the pivot away from staged triage toward rapid hemorrhage control and immediate hospital distribution. He documents how Boston EMS cleared more than 60 critical casualties in 18 minutes. The episode closes with career guidance for young military medicine professionals: question every assumption within appropriate command structures, remain data-driven, and be a fierce advocate for systems that better serve the injured warfighter.   Biography    Dr. Paul Biddinger is the Chief Preparedness and Continuity Officer at Mass General Brigham (MGB) and the Chief of the Division of Emergency Preparedness in the Department of Emergency Medicine at MGB.  He holds the Ann L. Prestipino MPH Endowed Chair in Emergency Preparedness and is also the Director of the Center for Disaster Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).  Dr. Biddinger additionally serves as the Director of the Emergency Preparedness Research, Evaluation and Practice (EPREP) Program at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health and holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and at the Chan School.   Dr. Biddinger serves as a medical officer for the MA-1 Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) in the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) in the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).     Dr. Biddinger is an active researcher in the field of emergency preparedness and has lectured nationally and internationally on topics of preparedness and disaster medicine.  He has authored numerous articles and book chapters on multiple topics related to disaster medicine and emergency medical operations and has responded to numerous prior disaster events, including Hurricane Katrina, Superstorm Sandy, the Boston Marathon bombings, the Nepal earthquakes, and many others.     He completed his undergraduate study in international relations at Princeton University, attended medical school at Vanderbilt University, and completed residency training in emergency medicine at Harvard. Episode Keywords military medicine, large-scale combat operations, LSCO, disaster medicine, emergency medicine, Paul Biddinger, Mass General Brigham, patient surge, civilian military integration, Henry M. Jackson Foundation, National Disaster Medical System, NDMS, Federal Coordinating Centers, trauma system, combat casualty care, Boston Marathon bombing, Ukraine war lessons, drone injuries, mass casualty, hemorrhage control, tactical combat casualty care, TCCC, National Special Pathogen System, Ebola preparedness, AI in medicine, heat injury prevention, hospital capacity, patient distribution, military healthcare, WarDocs podcast Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #LargeScaleCombatOperations, #DisasterMedicine, #CombatCasualtyCaree, #EmergencyMedicine, #MilitaryReadiness, #TCCC Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoW, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast        

In a nation increasingly defined by its political divisions, what is it that still holds America together? That is the question Bret set out to answer in his latest book, The Case for America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation. Host of ‘Making Money with Charles Payne,' Charles Payne, and Host of ‘The Story,' Martha MacCallum join Bret to weigh in on the top news stories of the day, and share their own personal cases for America.   The Case for America is available now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rededication of Our Nation to You on May 17th as an entry point for Your glory into our land.Learn more about the podcast hereLearn more about Give Him Fifteen hereSupport the show

   In this episode, Master Sergeant (Retired) John Lu joins WarDocs to share his profound journey from a conventional Army medic to a Special Forces 18 Delta and ultimately a doctoral graduate. MSG(R) Lu's narrative is a masterclass in professional evolution, highlighting how he pursued a bachelor's, master's, and doctorate while serving twenty years on active duty. He addresses the perceived barriers to higher education within the enlisted ranks, emphasizing that personal and professional development can—and should—coincide with mission priorities. By framing education as a force multiplier, Lu illustrates how academic credentials provided him with the "seat at the table" necessary to influence military medicine policy and advocate for the welfare of forward-deployed service members.    A central theme of the discussion is MSG(R) Lu's "dot connector" philosophy. He explains that by pursuing a broad range of certifications and education, service members can bridge the gap between tactical execution and strategic organizational leadership. This multifaceted approach allowed him to transition effectively into civilian life, where he now works to solve a critical issue: the loss of military medical training recognition when veterans enter academia. He details his current mission to streamline the transfer of military experience into civilian college credits, ensuring that the rich knowledge, skills, and abilities of medics and corpsmen are not wasted on redundant coursework.    The conversation also delves into the foundational values of humility and lifelong learning. MSG(R) Lu recounts how intentionally placing himself in "receive mode"—whether as a volunteer firefighter or a doctoral student—fostered the growth necessary to lead others. He encourages listeners to align their personal values with their professional work and challenges enlisted service members to maximize their military benefits to unlock their full potential. This episode serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for any healthcare professional looking to translate military excellence into civilian success, reminding us all that for those willing to learn, the best is yet to come.   Chapters (00:00-01:05) Introduction and Career Trajectory (01:05-04:30) Pursuing Academia While on Active Duty (04:30-08:45) The Strategic Value of Credentials (08:45-13:12) Leadership Through the Dot Connector Philosophy (13:12-20:51) Empowering the Enlisted Voice in Medicine (20:51-26:57) Revolutionizing Military-to-Civilian Credit Transfers (26:57-27:35) Conclusion and Closing Remarks   Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:05) Introduction and Career Trajectory The episode opens with an introduction to the guest's twenty-year Army career, highlighting his transition from a conventional 68 Whiskey to an elite 18 Delta medic. This segment sets the stage for a discussion on how military experience serves as a foundation for higher academic pursuits and leadership roles. (01:05-04:30) Pursuing Academia While on Active Duty This section explores the logistical and cultural challenges of completing a doctorate while serving in Special Forces. The guest highlights the importance of demonstrating the return on investment of education to command leadership to gain support for professional and personal development. (04:30-08:45) The Strategic Value of Credentials The conversation shifts to the necessity of academic titles in achieving policy changes and gaining influence at decision-making tables. A powerful example is shared regarding how a doctoral title changed the receptiveness of leadership to advocacy for behavioral health solutions for forward-deployed troops. (08:45-13:12) Leadership Through the Dot Connector Philosophy The guest discusses his approach to leadership as a "dot connector," utilizing diverse certifications to bridge gaps between different healthcare domains. He emphasizes that humility and a willingness to be a "private" again in new fields are essential components of lifelong learning. (13:12-20:51) Empowering the Enlisted Voice in Medicine This chapter focuses on a direct pitch to enlisted medics, encouraging them to view education as a way to amplify their lived experiences. The discussion centers on the strategic need for enlisted personnel to engage in the military decision-making process at the highest levels of the joint force. (20:51-26:57) Revolutionizing Military-to-Civilian Credit Transfers The final segment addresses the systemic failure in translating military medical training into college credits. The guest outlines his mission to create a streamlined, innovative pipeline that prevents veterans from having to repeat redundant medical coursework in civilian institutions. (26:57-27:35) Conclusion and Closing Remarks The episode concludes with final thoughts on the value of the military medical community and how listeners can support the organization. Information is provided on where to find more details about the guest and the mission of the podcast.     Take Home Messages   The Seat at the Table: Higher education serves as the primary mechanism for enlisted service members to gain credibility and a voice at strategic decision-making tables. Without these academic credentials, the invaluable tactical perspective of the medic is often excluded from the policies that shape the future of military healthcare.   Education as a Force Multiplier: Pursuing a degree while on active duty should not be seen as a distraction from the mission, but rather as a way to enhance it. When service members apply academic theory to real-world military challenges, such as behavioral health advocacy, they provide a tangible return on investment to their organization.   The Humility of Lifelong Learning: True professional growth requires the humility to step into unfamiliar roles where one is a beginner rather than an expert. By intentionally seeking environments that require "receive mode," leaders can stay agile and continue to develop the skills necessary to lead the next generation effectively.   Bridging the Translation Gap: There is a critical need to translate military medical training into the specific language used by civilian academic and accrediting bodies. Streamlining this process prevents the waste of veteran resources, such as the GI Bill, on redundant training that has already been mastered through service.   Aligning Values with Professional Pursuit: Personal professional development is most effective when it is aligned with an individual's core values and a desire to serve others. Finding activities that "fill your cup," such as one-on-one coaching or peer mentorship, ensures long-term sustainability throughout a complex career transition.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Special Operations Medic, 18 Delta, Veteran Career Transition, GI Bill, Army Medic, Enlisted Leadership, Master Sergeant John Lu, Higher Education for Soldiers, Clinical Behavioral Health, WarDocs Podcast, Combat Medic, Healthcare Leadership, ACHE Fellow, Professional Development, Military to Civilian Pipeline, Notre Dame Veterans, Special Forces, Medics in Academia, Military Medical Training Credit, Physician Assistant, Nursing, Public Health, Army Nurse Corps. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #VeteranEducation, #18Delta, #SpecialForces, #Medics, #CareerTransition, #Leadership, #WarDocs   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) veteran-run organization supported by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. Make a Tax-Deductible Donation to Support WarDocs https://www.wardocspodcast.com/donate   WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast   WarDocs on YouTube https://youtube.com/@wardocspodcast   We Are WarDocs: https://youtu.be/IOC3sCNF9RI?si=NGNwguReefbVMgPW          

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's Episode #175 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-18:03: MSU & RxKids/Tone Deaf DemsPat Johnston covers how MAGA Michigan Republican House Speaker Matt Hall, along with MAGA House Republicans, are proposing a 62% cut to MSU & UofM in their 2027 budget. One reason Hall is attacking MSU is because the university is a sponsor to the popular Rx Kids program, which is a direct cash for parents program throughou the state. Then, establishment Michigan Democrats brought New Jersey Senator Cory Booker to speak just before the the party's endorsement convention last weekend. It's strange to have Senator Booker chide those who couldn't vote for Kamala Harris while he couldn't support fellow Democrat and NYC Mayor, Zohran Mamdani. 18:04-35:14: Aisha Farooqi For Congress InterviewProgressive Democratic Congressional candidate for Michigan's 11th District, Aisha Farooqi, talks with Pat about her campaign to represent and amplify Michigan's working class voice in Congress. Ms. Farooqi shares her story, including how she's the daughter of immigrants, how she used her law degree to fight for the underdog, and why we need more of a Democratic spine to push-back against the Trump Regime in Congress. More than that, she wants to push for policies to benefit the working class, including Medicare For All. Visit Aisha Farooqi's Campaign: https://aishaforcongress.com/Visit Aisha Farooqi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aisha_for_congress/Visit Aisha Farooqi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aishaforcongress35:15-49:52: Last Call on MDP Convention FalloutIn this week's "Last Call," Pat covers how establishment-corporate Michigan Democrats handled their losses at the Michigan Democratic Party's Endorsement Convention. Cries of "antisemitism" are being thrown-out there by the establishment even though the delegates nominated a Jewish candidate for Attorney General!49:53-52:56: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:Aisha Farooqi For Congress: https://aishaforcongress.com/"Opinion: Michigan deserves Medicare for All." By Aisha Farooqi in Detroit Metro Times "Michigan Dems back Garlin Gilchrist and Eli Savit, oust U-M's Jordan Acker." By Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Michigan "Michigan Democrats endorse Gilchrist for secretary of state, Savit for attorney general." By Andrew Roth of Michigan Advance "UPDATE: Whitmer signs bipartisan deal on tipped wage and sick time hours." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Cory Booker Faces Backlash After Voting for Jared Kushner's Father." By Newsweek "‘A Storm in Our Nation!' Cory Booker Turns the Volume up to 11 in Call for ‘Foot Soldiers' to Fight Back Against Trump." By Jennifer Bowers Bahney of Mediate (via Yahoo News)"Amir Makled defeats regent Jordan Acker at Democratic convention, to run alongside incumbent Paul Brown." By Glenn Hedin, Alexa Cheaney, and Brady Middlebrooke of Michigan Daily "Higher ed appropriations bill cutting over half of funding to MSU, U-M passes House subcommittee." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "The media blackout of Jared Kushner's historic, ongoing corruption scandal." By Judd Legum of Popular Information #podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #EliSavit #JordanAcker #Election #Election2026 #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #MattHall #RxKids #WorkingClass #FreeSpeech #Israel #Gaza #IranWar #MedicareForAll #AishaFarooqi #Immigration #ICE #Parents #HealthCare #Economy #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #PartyPolitics #EpsteinClass #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #Congress #LeftofLansing

Bret Baier,  Chief Political Anchor for Fox News, Anchor of Special Report with Bret Baier, and author of the upcoming book (OUT MAY 5) of The Case For America: An Argument on Behalf of Our Nation joined us on the Guy Benson Show today to discuss and preview his upcoming book, which makes a case for America and its ideals. Baier also weighed in on the latest on negotiations to end U.S. action in Iran, the significance of Rory McIlroy's back-to-back Master's wins. Listen to the full interview below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  This episode of WarDocs features Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Dr. Charisma Evangelista, the Air Force's leading voice on refractive surgery and an expert in ocular trauma. The conversation begins with her upbringing in the Philippines and her unique path to military medicine, driven by a desire for service and the supportive, collaborative culture she found at the Uniformed Services University. Dr. Evangelista explains her transition from a prospective general surgeon to an ophthalmologist, highlighting the precision of microscopic surgery and the profound impact of sight restoration. She provides a detailed look at the "shield and ship" protocol for managing ruptured globes in combat environments, emphasizing the critical importance of preventing further injury at the point of care.    Dr. Evangelista also shares her experiences as the sole ophthalmologist deployed to Bagram, Afghanistan, where she managed severe, multi-system trauma cases while navigating limited resources. A pivotal moment in the interview occurs when she describes her own experience as a patient; she suffered a retinal detachment while performing surgery, an event that deepened her empathy for those facing vision loss and shaped her leadership style. Currently serving as the Refractive Surgery Consultant to the Air Force Surgeon General, she discusses the technological advancements in corneal collagen cross-linking and refractive standards that maintain pilot and warfighter readiness.    The episode concludes with her leadership philosophy of trust, empathy, and perseverance, alongside her advice for the next generation of military physicians. This comprehensive discussion highlights the technical expertise, emotional resilience, and deep compassion required to protect the vision of the American warfighter, offering listeners an inspiring look at the intersection of high-stakes surgery and humanitarian service. Chapters   (00:00-01:11) Introduction of Lt Col Charisma Evangelista, MD (01:12-05:13) Foundations in Medicine and the Choice of Ophthalmology (05:14-09:32) Specialized Training and Combat Deployment to Afghanistan (09:33-17:00) Ocular Trauma Protocols and Innovations in Refractive Surgery (17:01-22:35) Personal Resilience as a Patient and Leadership Philosophy (22:36-27:10) Advice for Future Medics and Defining a Military Hero Chapter Summaries   (00:00-01:11) Introduction of Lt Col Charisma Evangelista, MD: The episode opens with a tribute to the delicate nature of eye surgery in combat. Host Dr. Doug Soderdahl introduces Dr. Charisma Evangelista as a deeply compassionate healer and a leading expert in military ophthalmology and refractive surgery standards. (01:12-05:13) Foundations in Medicine and the Choice of Ophthalmology: Dr. Evangelista shares her journey from a small town in the Philippines to the Uniformed Services University, highlighting the family-oriented culture of military medical training. She discusses her transition from general surgery to ophthalmology, sparked by a love for microscopic precision and the collaborative nature of the specialty. (05:14-09:32) Specialized Training and Combat Deployment to Afghanistan: The discussion follows Dr. Evangelista through her prestigious civilian fellowship and her subsequent deployment to Bagram Airfield. She details the challenges of serving as the sole ophthalmologist in a combat theater, managing severe ocular trauma and multi-system injuries with limited resources. (09:33-17:00) Ocular Trauma Protocols and Innovations in Refractive Surgery: This section focuses on the "shield and ship" protocol for point-of-injury care and the rewarding outcomes of sight-restoring surgeries. Dr. Evangelista also explains her role as a consultant for the Air Force Surgeon General, detailing how advancements like corneal collagen cross-linking keep service members mission-ready. (17:01-22:35) Personal Resilience as a Patient and Leadership Philosophy: Dr. Evangelista provides a moving account of her own retinal detachment and the traumatic recovery process that followed. She explains how being a patient informed her leadership at the Department of Defense's largest eye center, prioritizing trust, empathy, and perseverance. (22:36-27:10) Advice for Future Medics and Defining a Military Hero: In the final segment, Dr. Evangelista offers encouragement to pre-med and medical students, emphasizing the unique opportunities for growth in military medicine. She reflects on her "Hero of Military Medicine" recognition and her desire to leave a legacy of inspiration and compassionate service. Take Home Messages Protecting the Ruptured Globe: In cases of severe ocular trauma, the most critical step for non-specialists is the "shield and ship" protocol, which involves placing a hard, protective shield over the eye without applying any pressure to the globe. Preventing additional injury at the point of care is essential for giving specialists the best chance to restore a service member's vision. Refractive Surgery as a Readiness Multiplier: Laser vision correction and specialized treatments for conditions like keratoconus are more than elective procedures; they are essential for warfighter readiness. By reducing dependence on eyeglasses and stabilizing corneal conditions, military ophthalmologists ensure that pilots and ground troops can perform their duties with maximum agility and precision. Empathy through the Patient Experience: True compassion in medicine often stems from understanding the fear and uncertainty of the patient. Experiencing a serious medical crisis personally can transform a surgeon's perspective, allowing them to lead with greater empathy and build deeper trust with those under their care. The Collaborative Power of Military Medicine: The military medical system thrives on a culture that prioritizes collective success over individual competition. This foundation of unit cohesion ensures that physicians work together across specialties to provide the highest standard of care in both domestic hospitals and austere combat environments. Persistence in the Face of Adversity: Success in high-stakes fields like ophthalmology requires the ability to persevere through personal health crises, professional challenges, and the rigors of deployment. Growth and innovation often occur as a direct result of these struggles, making a leader more resilient and effective in their mission to serve.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Ophthalmology, Ocular Trauma, Eye Surgery, Refractive Surgery Standards, LASIK, PRK, K-LEX, Corneal Collagen Cross-linking, Keratoconus, Bagram Airfield, Combat Medic Training, Eye Injury Protocols, Shield and Ship, Retinal Detachment, Uniformed Services University, Air Force Surgeon General, Hero of Military Medicine, Surgical Leadership, Medical Humanitarian Missions, WarDocs Podcast, Dr. Charisma Evangelista, Sight Restoration, Combat Surgery, Military Healthcare. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #Ophthalmology, #CombatSurgery, #EyeHealth, #WarDocs, #AirForceMedicine, #RefractiveSurgery, #VeteransHealth   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

   Following the events of 9/11, the United States military medical system faced an unprecedented challenge as casualties with devastating limb loss and complex polytrauma began arriving at Walter Reed. In this episode of WarDocs, Retired Army Colonel Dr. Paul Pasquina takes listeners behind the scenes of this critical era in military medicine. He details the rapid evolution of care from a perceived sprint to a long-term marathon, necessitating the creation of the world-renowned Military Advanced Training Center (MATC). Dr. Pasquina explains that medical leadership recognized that saving a life was only the beginning; the true mission was to restore the service member's ability to live fully.    The conversation explores the paradigm shift toward holistic care, where rehabilitation, behavioral health, and surgical interventions occur concurrently, starting on Day 1. Dr. Pasquina emphasizes the vital role of the family in the recovery process, explaining why housing and support services were integrated directly into the treatment plan to create a true team environment. Listeners will hear inspiring stories of resilience, including the evacuation of Senator Tammy Duckworth, and how high-profile visits from celebrities like Justin Timberlake and Ozzy Osbourne impacted morale.    Beyond the historical retrospective, the episode delves into the future of rehabilitation technology. Dr. Pasquina discusses his collaboration with DARPA on the "Revolutionizing Prosthetics" program, the potential of brain-machine interfaces, and the balance between high-tech innovation and high-touch human compassion. He concludes with valuable advice for the next generation of military medical professionals, highlighting the unique leadership and research opportunities a military career offers. This episode is a testament to the unyielding spirit of wounded warriors and the dedicated providers who commit to their lifelong care.   Chapters (00:00-06:32) Introduction to Dr. Pasquina and the Path to Military Medicine (06:33-15:42) Building the Military Advanced Training Center and Responding to 9/11 (15:43-24:51) Integrating Families and Creating Centers of Excellence for Comprehensive Care (24:52-37:59) Strategic Lessons on Long-Term Rehabilitation and Providing Holistic Restoration (38:00-41:13) Collaborating with DARPA and the Future of Advanced Prosthetics (41:14-44:38) Career Advice for Future Military Medical Professionals and Closing Thoughts   Chapter Summaries (00:00-06:32) Introduction to Dr. Pasquina and the Path to Military Medicine Dr. Pasquina discusses his early inspiration to pursue a career in medicine, influenced by his mother's nursing career and his time at West Point. He explains his journey through the Uniformed Services University and how he found his calling in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, with a focus on the neuromuscular and skeletal systems. (06:33-15:42) Building the Military Advanced Training Center and Responding to 9/11 This section covers the immediate response to the influx of casualties after 9/11 and the realization that the military needed to prepare for a "marathon" of care. Dr. Pasquina describes the formation of the Military Advanced Training Center (MATC) and the shift from dispersed care to a multidisciplinary team approach that consolidated resources for amputees. (15:43-24:51) Integrating Families and Creating Centers of Excellence for Comprehensive Care The discussion moves to the logistical and emotional importance of keeping families close during the recovery process, often housing them on-site to be part of the treatment team. Dr. Pasquina also recounts memorable interactions between wounded warriors and visiting celebrities, highlighting how these moments boosted morale and public awareness. (24:52-37:59) Strategic Lessons on Long-Term Rehabilitation and Providing Holistic Restoration Dr. Pasquina outlines the critical lesson that rehabilitation and behavioral health must begin immediately alongside acute medical care, rather than waiting for stabilization. He shares insights on the long-term commitment required to treat chronic conditions like TBI and limb loss, emphasizing that the goal is to restore lives, not just treat injuries. (38:00-41:13) Collaborating with DARPA and the Future of Advanced Prosthetics This chapter explores the intersection of military medicine and cutting-edge engineering, detailing collaborations with DARPA to develop robotic limbs and brain-machine interfaces. Dr. Pasquina explains how patient advocacy helped drive funding for these technologies and discusses the future potential of regenerative medicine. (41:14-44:38) Career Advice for Future Military Medical Professionals and Closing Thoughts In the final section, advice is offered to young medical professionals, encouraging them to see military service as a unique opportunity for leadership, research, and diverse clinical experiences. The episode concludes with final thoughts on the privilege of serving those who have sacrificed for their country. Take Home Messages Concurrent Care Model: A critical evolution in trauma care is the understanding that rehabilitation and behavioral health should not be delayed until medical or surgical stability is achieved. Integrating these therapies on Day 1 of hospitalization significantly reduces complications, shortens hospital stays, and sets the trajectory for a more successful long-term recovery for complex patients. Holistic Treatment Teams: Successful rehabilitation for severe injuries requires a multidisciplinary approach that extends beyond the patient to include their family unit and a wide array of specialists. By incorporating families into the daily care plan and utilizing diverse experts—from prosthetists to psychologists—the medical system can better address the complex physical and emotional needs of the wounded. Lifelong Commitment to Care: Conditions such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and limb loss are chronic, life-altering events that require medical attention spanning decades, not just months. The medical system must be structured to support the long-term wellness of service members as they age, ensuring that the promise of care extends well beyond the initial injury phase. Bridging Technology and Humanity: While advancements in high-tech prosthetics and brain-machine interfaces are revolutionary, they must be balanced with "high-touch" human compassion. The most effective care leverages the best engineering from organizations like DARPA while maintaining a deep, personal connection between the provider and the patient to foster resilience and hope. Restoration Over Survival: The ultimate metric of success in military medicine is not merely survival or the healing of a wound, but the full restoration of the individual's life and purpose. Through adaptive sports, community reintegration, and vocational training, the healthcare goal shifts to helping service members return to their units, their families, and society as active, contributing participants.   Episode Keywords WarDocs Podcast, Military Medicine, Dr Paul Pasquina, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Amputee Care, Advanced Prosthetics, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Combat Casualty Care, Polytrauma Rehabilitation, Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, DARPA Medical Research, Regenerative Medicine, Holistic Healthcare, Veteran Rehabilitation, Army Physician, Senator Tammy Duckworth, Medical Technology, Military Advanced Training Center, USUHS, West Point, Medical Innovation, Wounded Warrior Care, Orthopedics, Centers of Excellence, Military Health System Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocsPodcast, #AmputeeCare, #WalterReed, #PhysicalRehabilitation, #CombatMedicine, #MedicalInnovation, #WoundedWarriors Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

    In this compelling episode of the podcast, we explore the groundbreaking paradigm shift of bringing whole blood resuscitation from the combat zones of Afghanistan directly to civilian pre-hospital emergency care. For decades, standard civilian trauma protocols relied heavily on crystalloid fluids and component therapy, delaying crucial blood transfusions until a critically injured patient arrived at the hospital. However, hard-won lessons from military medical teams operating in austere environments proved that administering cold-stored, low-titer O-positive whole blood at or near the point of injury drastically increases survival rates for patients suffering from severe hemorrhagic shock.    We are joined by two incredible guests who are spearheading this medical revolution. Dr. Donald Jenkins, a retired Air Force trauma surgeon and a driving force behind the Joint Trauma System, shares his firsthand experience administering the first whole blood to combat casualties over two decades ago. He details the massive logistical and institutional hurdles he and his colleagues faced when attempting to convince civilian blood banks and hospital administrators to abandon forty years of standard practice in favor of a whole-blood approach. Through relentless collaboration, they successfully built a highly efficient, low-waste pre-hospital whole blood distribution system in San Antonio, Texas, which now serves as a premier national model.    We are also joined by Captain Alex Bowers, an Air Force general surgery resident and former enlisted medic who founded the Students, Residents, and Fellows Trauma Advocacy Coalition (SURF-TAC). Capt. Bowers discusses how his organization utilizes national traffic fatality data to advocate for state-level legislative funding. His data-driven approach recently helped secure ten million dollars from the Texas legislature to aggressively expand pre-hospital whole blood access to EMS agencies across nearly every county in the state.    Together, our guests highlight the critical importance of military-civilian medical partnerships. These collaborations not only elevate the standard of care in our local communities but also ensure that military medical providers maintain their vital combat trauma skills during inter-war periods, successfully mitigating the "Walker Dip." From saving lives on the highway to unexpectedly revolutionizing obstetric hemorrhage protocols in the operating room, this episode provides a masterclass in how battlefield innovations are fundamentally rewriting the rules of modern emergency medicine. Chapters 00:00-10:13 The Origins of Whole Blood Resuscitation in Afghanistan 10:14-26:10 Building a National Model for Pre-Hospital Blood in San Antonio 26:11-32:10 Overcoming Donor Pool Limitations and Alloimmunization Risks 32:11-48:37 Data-Driven Advocacy and Securing Legislative Funding in Texas 48:38-59:04 Mitigating the Walker Dip Through Military-Civilian Partnerships Chapter Summaries (00:00-10:13) The Origins of Whole Blood Resuscitation in Afghanistan Faced with a complete lack of standard hospital blood components in early combat zones, military medical teams were forced to innovate by drawing walking blood bank whole blood from troops. They quickly realized that this whole blood produced a profoundly superior physiological response in severe trauma patients compared to traditional component therapy. (10:14-26:10) Building a National Model for Pre-Hospital Blood in San Antonio Bringing battlefield resuscitation tactics home required breaking decades of established blood banking protocols to arm EMS providers with cold-stored whole blood. By forging strong partnerships between hospitals and local EMS agencies, medical leaders created a highly efficient temperature-monitoring and rotation system that practically eliminated blood waste. (26:11-32:10) Overcoming Donor Pool Limitations and Alloimmunization Risks To ensure a sustainable supply of whole blood, researchers successfully challenged long-held assumptions about antibody risks that previously excluded women from donating. By proving that the risk of alloimmunization is remarkably low, the program safely expanded its donor pool while establishing best practices for pediatric and female trauma patients. (32:11-48:37) Data-Driven Advocacy and Securing Legislative Funding in Texas Medical coalitions are utilizing national traffic fatality data to prove the life-saving potential of pre-hospital whole blood to state lawmakers. This targeted advocacy recently resulted in a massive ten-million-dollar legislative appropriation to expand EMS blood access to hundreds of agencies across Texas. (48:38-59:04) Mitigating the Walker Dip Through Military-Civilian Partnerships Integrating military medical personnel into high-volume civilian trauma centers is essential for preventing the loss of combat trauma experience during peacetime. This vital symbiosis ensures that communities benefit from military expertise while providers maintain the critical lifesaving skills needed for future conflicts. Take Home Messages Battlefield Necessity Drives Medical Innovation: The modern resurgence of whole blood transfusion was born out of sheer necessity when military medical teams lacked component therapy in austere combat environments. By utilizing walking blood banks, they discovered that administering fresh whole blood significantly outperformed standard trauma center resuscitation protocols for severe hemorrhage. Collaboration is Key to Overcoming Institutional Resistance: Transitioning whole blood into civilian pre-hospital care required dismantling forty years of deeply entrenched blood banking rules. Success was only achieved through relentless collaboration between trauma surgeons, anesthesiologists, blood banks, and EMS agencies to create a unified, low-waste distribution model. Expanding Donor Pools Requires Challenging Assumptions: For years, female donors were excluded from whole blood programs due to theoretical risks of harmful antibodies. Rigorous clinical testing proved these risks were largely overstated, allowing medical systems to safely double their dedicated O-positive donor pools and ensure a sustainable supply. Data-Driven Advocacy Secures Legislative Funding: To expand life-saving medical protocols, healthcare professionals must learn to present compelling, quantifiable data to lawmakers. By utilizing traffic fatality statistics to demonstrate preventable deaths, medical coalitions can successfully secure millions of dollars in state funding to arm local ambulances with whole blood. Military-Civilian Partnerships Maintain Combat Readiness: During periods of peace, military medical providers risk losing crucial trauma skills, a phenomenon known as the Walker Dip. Integrating these providers into busy civilian trauma centers ensures they maintain their lifesaving proficiencies while directly elevating the standard of emergency care within the local community.   Episode Keywords military medicine podcast, trauma surgery whole blood, combat casualty care lessons, prehospital blood transfusion EMS, Joint Trauma System history, battlefield medicine civilian hospitals, hemorrhagic shock survival, massive transfusion protocols, Texas whole blood legislation, reducing traffic fatalities, military civilian medical partnerships, medical innovation battlefield, emergency medicine trauma protocols Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #TraumaCare, #WholeBlood, #EMS, #CombatCasualtyCare, #EmergencyMedicine, #MedicalInnovation, #PrehospitalCare Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

    This episode of WarDocs features an in-depth conversation with LTG Mary K. Izaguirre, DO, the 46th Army Surgeon General and Commanding General of U.S. Army Medical Command. LTG Izaguirre shares her personal journey from a residency at Madigan Army Medical Center to serving in a tent in Bagram, Afghanistan, during the early stages of the war. She discusses how these early experiences shaped her understanding of the "why" behind military medicine: maintaining the trust of the American soldier by providing world-class care shoulder-to-shoulder on the battlefield. A central theme of the interview is the fundamental difference between civilian and military healthcare; while civilian systems often optimize for profit or specific health outcomes, military medicine must optimize for the mission, sometimes reprioritizing traditional medical metrics to ensure the Army remains effective in dangerous and dynamic environments.  The discussion also explores the evolving role of the Army Surgeon General as an "integrator," a position codified to synchronize medical capabilities across the entire Army and joint force. LTG Izaguirre highlights the 250-year heritage of the Army Medical Department and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, emphasizing that this history of overcoming "hard things" provides the foundation for today's leaders to tackle modern challenges. Looking toward the future, she identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool rather than a distant prospect, advocating for "human-machine teaming" to decrease cognitive loads and improve clinical decision-making for medics in the field. By combining these technological advancements with a flexible mindset and a commitment to people, LTG Izaguirre outlines a vision for an Army health system that is lethal, cohesive, and consistently ready to support the nation's heroes. Chapters (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care   Chapter Summaries (01:21-06:35) Path to Army Medicine: LTG Izaguirre discusses her early interest in biology and how her path led from veterinary aspirations to human medicine within the U.S. Army. She explains how the Army's broad range of opportunities and scholarship programs provided a meaningful way to serve something bigger than herself. (06:36-15:42) Lessons from the Front Lines: This chapter details LTG Izaguirre's deployment to Afghanistan in 2002 and how it shifted her focus from academics to the practical realities of operational medicine. She reflects on the critical "why" of her service: providing shoulder-to-shoulder support to maintain the faith and trust of the American soldier. (15:43-21:03) Leadership and the 250-Year Heritage: LTG Izaguirre reflects on the 250-year history of Army Medicine and the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps as sources of inspiration for today's challenges. She describes her role as an "integrator," tasked with synchronizing medical capabilities across the entire Army to support the joint force. (21:04-32:07) Transforming the Army Health System: The discussion focuses on how military medicine differs from civilian systems by optimizing specifically for the mission and operational outcomes. LTG Izaguirre emphasizes the need for a flexible mindset and curiosity as the Army undergoes significant structural changes to reflect the National Security Strategy. (32:08-41:30) AI and the Future of Combat Care: LTG Izaguirre identifies artificial intelligence as a current tool that can decrease cognitive loads and assist with clinical decision-making in austere environments. She concludes with a vision for the future of Army Medicine that focuses on vibrant training, strengthened partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to the soldiers and civilians who serve.   Take Home Messages Optimizing for the Mission: The fundamental difference between military and civilian healthcare lies in what the system is optimized for: military medicine prioritizes mission readiness and operational outcomes over profit or standard health metrics. This may require reprioritizing certain medical strategies to ensure the soldier is best postured for the fight and the joint force remains effective. The Role of the Integrator: Modern medical leadership in the Army requires serving as an integrator who synchronizes capabilities across diverse commands and joint partners. This role extends beyond direct command and control to influence the entire Army health system, ensuring it is properly postured to support national defense strategies. The Power of Trust and Heritage: A 250-year heritage of overcoming difficult challenges provides the foundation for today's medical leaders to build trust within their communities and with the soldiers they serve. This trust is maintained by acting in ways consistent with the identity of both a soldier and a clinician, ensuring that the best possible care is always available on the battlefield. Human-Machine Teaming in Medicine: Artificial intelligence is a present-day tool that should be utilized through human-machine teaming to improve decision-making and reduce the mental burden on medical personnel. While technology can get a clinician to the starting line, human judgment and the "human voice" remain essential to successfully providing care in complex environments. Learning Through Listening: Effective leadership during periods of intense transformation requires being a good listener who is willing to hear difficult or differing perspectives. By understanding these viewpoints before attempting to "explain away" problems, leaders can foster curiosity and synchronization throughout their organizations.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Army Surgeon General, Lieutenant General Mary K. Izaguirre, WarDocs Podcast, Combat Casualty Care, Army Medicine History, Healthcare Transformation, Medical Leadership, AI in Medicine, Military Healthcare, Army Nurse Corps, Veteran Health, Bagram Afghanistan, Medical Residency, Physician Leadership, Integrated Healthcare, Medical Technology, Trauma Care, Clinical Decision Support, Human-Machine Teaming, Military Strategy, National Security Strategy, Healthcare Trust. Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #ArmyMedicine, #Leadership, #WarDocs, #ArmySurgeon General, #MedicalInnovation, #HealthcareLeadership, #CombatMedic   LTG Izaguirre Biography Lieutenant General Izaguirre serves as the 46th Surgeon General of the U.S. Army and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Medical Command. A career physician and leader, she previously commanded Medical Readiness Command, East, and Tripler Army Medical Center.  Commissioned in 1991, LTG Izaguirre earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is board-certified in Family Medicine with advanced degrees in Public Health, Military Arts, and National Security Strategy. Her distinguished service includes deployments to Iraq (4th Infantry Division) and Afghanistan, as well as key leadership roles at the Pentagon and various Army medical centers.   A recipient of the Army Distinguished Service Medal and the Bronze Star, LTG Izaguirre is also an Army Flight Surgeon and a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit. She remains dedicated to the health, readiness, and resilience of the Total Army Force   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast  

   This episode of WarDocs features Dr. David Tate, a clinical neuropsychologist and lead author of the 2025 Military Medicine Article of the Year. The discussion centers on a groundbreaking study utilizing the LIMBIC-CENC cohort—a massive data set of over 3,000 participants—to investigate persistent brain changes in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Dr. Tate explains that traditional MRI scans often show normal results in patients with invisible symptoms because researchers often oversimplify patient groupings. By digging into more refined clinical characteristics, such as the mechanism of injury and number of exposures, his team identified unique physical signatures in the brain. Specifically, blast exposures were linked to changes in central white matter, while repetitive traumatic hits impacted more peripheral gray matter structures.    The conversation highlights the critical importance of neuroimaging techniques like diffusion tensor imaging, which is more sensitive to structural white matter changes than standard hospital sequences. Dr. Tate emphasizes that these findings provide vital validation for service members and veterans, demonstrating that their ongoing symptoms are rooted in physical, biological changes rather than purely psychological or "imagined". For clinicians, the episode serves as a call to action to move beyond simplistic interpretations of "normal" imaging and to prioritize exhaustive injury histories that include the physics of every exposure event.    By combining a deep dive into advanced neuroimaging with a focus on personalized medicine, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the future of TBI diagnosis and treatment. Listeners will learn how high-resolution volumetric data and detailed clinical info—including loss of consciousness and post-traumatic amnesia markers—are used to improve prognostic accuracy. Ultimately, Dr. Tate's work demonstrates that injury history matters even years later, pointing researchers and clinicians toward a more precise approach to studying and treating the diverse landscape of mild traumatic brain injuries in the military population. Chapters (00:00-01:30) Introduction to the 2025 Military Medicine Article of the Year (01:30-06:17) Dr. David Tate's Professional Background and Career Evolution (06:17-08:04) Understanding the LIMBIC-CENC Cohort and Consortium Research (08:04-12:44) Methodology: Advanced Neuroimaging and Detailed Clinical Variables (12:44-17:03) Key Findings: Heterogeneity of mTBI and Mechanism-Specific Signatures (17:03-22:15) The Bottom Line: Validating Veteran Experiences and Clinical Takeaways Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:30) Introduction to the 2025 Military Medicine Article of the Year   MG(R) Jeff Clark introduces guest Dr. David Tate and recognizes his team for winning the 2025 Military Medicine Article of the Year. The article focuses on persistent MRI findings unique to blast and repetitive mild traumatic brain injury within the LIMBIC-CENC cohort. (01:30-06:17) Dr. David Tate's Professional Background and Career Evolution   Dr. Tate shares his journey from growing up on a farm in Mississippi to becoming a leading researcher in academic neuropsychology. He discusses his mentorship under Erin Bigler and his favorite career experiences working directly with service members at Brooke Army Medical Center. (06:17-08:04) Understanding the LIMBIC-CENC Cohort and Consortium Research   The discussion explores the advantages of using a large consortium dataset that includes over 3,000 participants across the United States. This prospective study enables leading scientists and clinicians to collaborate on well-characterized, long-term functional outcomes following brain injury. (08:04-12:44) Methodology: Advanced Neuroimaging and Detailed Clinical Variables Dr. Tate explains the use of high-resolution volumetric MRI data and diffusion tensor imaging to map brain structural connections. Researchers combined these images with a plethora of clinical data, including lifetime exposure histories, demographics, and specific injury markers like loss of consciousness. (12:44-17:03) Key Findings: Heterogeneity of mTBI and Mechanism-Specific Signatures The study reveals that mild TBI is extremely heterogeneous and simplistic group comparisons often obscure meaningful findings. Findings showed that blast exposures leave signatures in central white matter, while repetitive traumatic injuries more specifically affect gray matter structures. (17:03-22:15) The Bottom Line: Validating Veteran Experiences and Clinical Takeaways The bottom line is that persistent brain changes can be detected if clinicians look at the right variables and mechanism of injury. This research validates the lived experiences of veterans, proving their symptoms are not imagined and emphasizing the need for detailed injury histories. Article Reference Persistent MRI Findings Unique to Blast and Repetitive Mild TBI: Analysis of the CENC/LIMBIC Cohort Injury Characteristics Open Access David F Tate, PhD , Benjamin S C Wade, PhD , Carmen S Velez, MS ,  Erin D Bigler, PhD , Nicholas D Davenport, PhD , Emily L Dennis, PhD ,  Carrie Esopenko, PhD , Sidney R Hinds, MD , Jacob Kean, PhD , Eamonn Kennedy, PhD  Military Medicine, Volume 189, Issue 9-10, September/October 2024, Pages e1938–e1946, https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usae031   Take Home Messages Heterogeneity of Mild TBI: Mild traumatic brain injury is not a single, uniform condition, and simplistic groupings can obscure meaningful characteristics of an injury. Clinicians must recognize that "if you've seen one mild TBI, you've seen one mild TBI," requiring a more personalized approach to diagnosis. Mechanism-Specific Signatures: The physical signature left on the brain depends heavily on the mechanism of injury, with blast exposures typically affecting central white matter and repetitive traumatic hits impacting peripheral gray matter. Understanding these distinctions helps explain why different patients experience different functional outcomes even with the same diagnosis. Sensitivity of Advanced Neuroimaging: Standard MRI sequences often fail to detect injuries in mTBI patients, but advanced techniques like diffusion tensor imaging are highly sensitive to structural white matter changes. Relying solely on basic imaging can lead to an over-simplistic interpretation that overlooks persistent brain changes. Validation of Lived Experiences: Research into persistent brain changes provides vital biological validation for veterans and service members who struggle with ongoing symptoms. These findings support the idea that invisible wounds have a physical basis and are not simply psychological or imagined. Importance of Detailed Injury Histories: For clinicians, the most critical takeaway is the necessity of capturing a detailed lifetime injury history, including the number of exposures and specific physics of each event. This detailed clinical information is essential for improving prognostic accuracy and understanding a patient's long-term health trajectory.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, WarDocs Podcast, Traumatic Brain Injury, TBI Diagnosis, Blast Exposure, Neuropsychology, Persistent MRI Findings, Veteran Healthcare, Brain Imaging, Mild TBI, LIMBIC-CENC Cohort, Neuroimaging Research, AMSUS, Combat Injury, White Matter Change, Brain Health, Dr. David Tate, Military Health System, Invisible Injuries, Medical Podcast, Concussion Recovery, Gray Matter, MRI Scans, AMSUS Article of the Year, Veteran Support, Brain Mapping Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #BrainHealth, #Veterans, #Neuroscience, #MildTBI, #BlastInjury, #MedicalResearch   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast          

    In this episode of War Docs, we speak with retired Army Colonel Dr. Robert Mabry, a figure whose career trajectory from an 18 Delta Special Forces medic to a senior physician-leader has shaped the face of modern military medicine. Dr. Mabry recounts his harrowing experience during the Battle of Mogadishu, where he provided care for 15 hours under intense fire. He reflects on how those "blood-written" lessons exposed the flaws of applying civilian EMS standards to the battlefield, eventually leading to his involvement as a founding member of the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC). The conversation moves from the tactical to the systemic, as Dr.Mabry discusses his pivotal role in upgrading Army flight medics to critical care paramedics and his advocacy for the "Mission Zero Act," which integrates military surgical teams into civilian trauma centers to maintain clinical readiness during the interwar period.     Dr. Mabry also addresses the looming challenges of Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO). He warns that the "Golden Hour" luxury enjoyed in Iraq and Afghanistan will likely vanish in future peer-on-peer conflicts due to the lack of air superiority and the threat of mass casualties from advanced weaponry. To prepare, he proposes a radical overhaul of the medical career pathway, advocating for a "Battlefield Medical Specialist" track that allows medics to advance into high-level operational roles without losing their tactical expertise. By embedding military teams into a nationalized mesh network of civilian hospitals, Mabry envisions a "Team America" approach that ensures the military is never again forced to relearn life-saving lessons at the start of a new conflict. This episode is a masterclass in operational medicine, leadership, and the persistent need for innovation within the military health system bureaucracy.   Chapters (00:00-01:30) Introduction to Retired Colonel Dr. Robert Mabry (01:30-05:37) From Small-Town Oklahoma to Army Ranger (05:37-10:51) The Path to Special Forces Medic and 18 Delta Training (10:51-18:54) 15 Hours Under Fire: The Battle of Mogadishu (18:54-25:03) Transitioning from NCO to Physician at USUHS (25:03-31:15) Founding TCCC and the Joint Trauma System (31:15-39:54) Revolutionizing Flight Medic Training and Evidence-Based Reform (39:54-48:00) Prolonged Field Care and the Reality of Future Conflict (LSCO) (48:00-56:17) Mission Zero and Embedding Military Teams in Civilian Centers (56:17-1:03:40) Designing the Future Battlefield Medical Specialist Career Track (1:03:40-1:05:42) Legacy and Closing Remarks   Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:30) Introduction to Retired Colonel Dr. Robert Mabry Host Dr. Doug Soderdahl introduces Dr. Robert Mabry, highlighting his journey from the Battle of Mogadishu to his role as a founding member of the Committee on TCCC. The introduction sets the stage for a discussion on overhauling military medical training and preparing for future high-casualty conflicts. (01:30-05:37) From Small-Town Oklahoma to Army Ranger Dr. Mabry shares his early motivations for enlisting, citing a family tradition of military service and a desire to escape his small town. He explains how a recruiter's pitch led him to the Army over the Marine Corps, eventually landing him in the newly formed 3rd Ranger Battalion. (05:37-10:51) The Path to Special Forces Medic and 18 Delta Training Inspired by a mentor, Mabry pursued the rigorous Special Forces Medic (18 Delta) pathway, known for its high attrition rate and intense training. He discusses the 1.5-year pipeline and how his early marriage provided the stability needed to succeed in the academically and physically demanding course. (10:51-18:54) 15 Hours Under Fire: The Battle of Mogadishu Mabry provides a first-hand account of the "Black Hawk Down" mission, detailing the chaos of the crash site and the makeshift bunker he used to treat casualties overnight. He reflects on the realization that contemporary medical protocols, like C-spine immobilization under fire, were dangerously ill-suited for combat. (18:54-25:03) Transitioning from NCO to Physician at USUHS Inspired by clinical encounters as a medic, Mabry discusses the arduous process of completing medical school prerequisites while on active duty, including retaking organic chemistry after returning from Somalia. He details his experience at USUHS, balancing family life with the challenges of the basic science curriculum. (25:03-31:15) Founding TCCC and the Joint Trauma System Mabry explains the "grassroots" origins of the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) and the later development of the Joint Trauma System (JTS). He critiques the military's initial lack of a data-driven trauma system and the years it took to improve survivability during the Global War on Terror. (31:15-39:54) Revolutionizing Flight Medic Training and Evidence-Based Reform Mabry recounts the struggle to convince the Army to upgrade flight medics from EMT-Basics to Critical Care Paramedics. He highlights a landmark study that proved a 15% improvement in survival for the most critically injured patients when treated by higher-trained providers. (39:54-48:00) Prolonged Field Care and the Reality of Future Conflict (LSCO) Drawing from experiences on the Afghan-Pakistan border, Mabry demystifies prolonged field care as essential nursing care. He warns that future conflicts (LSCO) will lack air superiority, requiring medics to manage mass casualties at the point of injury for days rather than hours. (48:00-56:17) Mission Zero and Embedding Military Teams in Civilian Centers Mabry advocates for a nationalized "Team America" strategy to embed military surgical teams in busy civilian level-one trauma centers. He discusses his work on the Mission Zero Act to ensure military providers maintain their trauma skills during periods of peace. (56:17-1:03:40) Designing the Future Battlefield Medical Specialist Career Track Mabry proposes a new career pathway for operational medicine that allows experienced medics to transition into specialized Physician Assistant roles. This track would keep tactical expertise in the field and provide a long-term career for those dedicated to battlefield care. (1:03:40-1:05:42) Legacy and Closing Remarks In the final segment, Mabry reflects on his legacy, hoping his work inspires future medical leaders to have the courage to innovate. The episode concludes with a tribute to his contributions to saving lives on and off the battlefield.   Take Home Messages Combat Medicine Requires Tactical Adaptation: Medical protocols designed for civilian settings, such as C-spine immobilization or the avoidance of tourniquets, are often counterproductive in high-threat environments. True innovation in combat casualty care comes from acknowledging that the tactical situation dictates the medical intervention, a realization that led to the birth of TCCC. Data Drives Survival in Trauma Systems: The military health system cannot rely on luck or anecdotal evidence to improve clinical outcomes. Establishing a robust trauma registry and a continuous quality improvement process, as seen with the Joint Trauma System, is essential to bending the survival curve and preventing the repetition of past mistakes. Advanced Training is Non-Negotiable for Flight Medics: Moving from an "evacuation only" mindset to a "critical care in the air" model significantly improves survival rates for the most severely injured. Investing in high-level paramedic and nursing certification for flight crews ensures that the aircraft serves as a mobile ICU rather than just a transport vehicle. Preparing for Large-Scale Combat Requires Triage Mastery: In future peer-on-peer conflicts where medical evacuation may be delayed for days, military providers must be trained to manage expecting casualties and perform complex triage. This requires a shift in focus toward prolonged field care and the psychological readiness to make difficult resource-allocation decisions. Civilian-Military Integration is Essential for Readiness: To maintain the surgical skills necessary for war, military teams must be permanently embedded in high-volume civilian trauma centers. A nationalized strategy like the Mission Zero Act ensures that the nation's medical assets are integrated and ready to handle a sudden surge of casualties in a "Team America" approach.   Episode Keywords Military Medicine, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, TCCC, Battle of Mogadishu, Black Hawk Down, Army Rangers, Special Forces Medic, 18 Delta, Joint Trauma System, Flight Medic, Critical Care Paramedic, Mission Zero Act, Large Scale Combat Operations, LSCO, Prolonged Field Care, Combat Surgeon, USUHS, Medical Readiness, Trauma Surgery, Battlefield Medicine, Veteran Stories, Army Medical Department, AMEDD, Medevac, Operational Medicine   Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #WarDocs, #TCCC, #CombatMedic, #TraumaCare, #SpecialOperations, #VeteranLeadership, #BattlefieldMedicine   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast        

     In this episode of WarDocs, we sit down with Dr. Franklin Sechriest, a former US Navy   Commander and orthopedic surgeon, to explore the high-stakes world of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions. Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Sechriest details the unique challenges of performing complex surgeries aboard naval vessels while responding to some of the most devastating natural disasters of the 21st century, including the 2004 Indonesian tsunami and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. He provides a fascinating comparison between the capabilities of massive hospital ships like the USNS Mercy—floating Level 1 trauma centers—and the tactical agility of amphibious assault ships like the USS Bataan.     Dr. Sechriest shares gripping personal anecdotes, including the life-saving resuscitation and surgery of a young Indonesian boy, which highlight the profound human impact of military medicine. Beyond the operating room, the conversation delves into the strategic importance of these missions. Dr. Sechriest explains how medical teams project "soft power," strengthening diplomatic ties and winning hearts and minds in regions where traditional military force is not the answer. He also discusses his collaboration with the Naval Health Research Center to analyze surgical data, revealing how past missions have reshaped current staffing models to better care for pediatric and geriatric populations often found in disaster zones.      Looking ahead, the discussion covers the potential of Artificial Intelligence to reduce provider burnout and the advent of smart orthopedic implants. Finally, Dr. Sechriest offers timeless advice on leadership, emphasizing that the most effective leaders in chaotic environments are those who view themselves primarily as servants to their team and their patients. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how Navy Medicine combines compassion, logistics, and surgical excellence to bring hope to the darkest corners of the globe.   Chapters (00:00-04:46) Introduction to Dr. Sechriest and the Path to Navy Orthopedics (04:46-14:55) Hospital Ships, Warships, and Life-Saving Stories from the Tsunami (14:55-27:14) Logistical Challenges, Ethical Dilemmas, and Data-Driven Improvements (27:14-36:12) Medical Diplomacy as Soft Power and Training for Future Conflicts (36:12-48:29) The Future of AI in Medicine and Leadership Advice for Aspiring Officers   Chapter Summaries (00:00-04:46) Introduction to Dr. Sechriest and the Path to Navy Orthopedics The episode begins with Dr. Sechriest explaining his motivation for combining a medical career with military service, viewing it as the ultimate form of servant leadership. He describes his journey from general surgery to becoming an "accidental orthopedic surgeon" and how he found himself deployed on major humanitarian missions shortly after joining the Navy. (04:46-14:55) Hospital Ships, Warships, and Life-Saving Stories from the Tsunami This section distinguishes the medical capabilities between the massive USNS Mercy hospital ship and the tactical USS Bataan amphibious assault ship. Dr. Sechriest shares a moving anecdote about a young Indonesian boy who was airlifted to the ship in critical condition, illustrating how Navy assets can provide hope and advanced trauma care where absolutely none existed. (14:55-27:14) Logistical Challenges, Ethical Dilemmas, and Data-Driven Improvements The conversation shifts to the complexities of operating in disaster zones, including language barriers, continuity of care, and resource allocation. Dr. Sechriest details his work with the Naval Health Research Center to analyze mission data, which helped transition staffing models from World War II-era combat configurations to robust teams capable of treating diverse pediatric and geriatric populations. (27:14-36:12) Medical Diplomacy as Soft Power and Training for Future Conflicts Dr. Sechriest explains how humanitarian missions serve as a vital tool for "soft power" in the post-9/11 era, using compassion to improve global security and international relations. He also discusses how the chaotic, resource-constrained environments of natural disasters provide unparalleled training for medical officers preparing for combat operations. (36:12-48:29) The Future of AI in Medicine and Leadership Advice for Aspiring Officers In the final segment, the discussion explores how Artificial Intelligence can reduce administrative burdens for physicians and how smart implants will revolutionize orthopedic recovery. Dr. Sechriest concludes with advice for the next generation of military medical professionals, encouraging them to seek out tough assignments and lead with humility. Take Home Messages Medical Diplomacy as Soft Power: Humanitarian assistance missions are a critical strategic tool that allows the military to project goodwill and strengthen international alliances without firing a shot. By providing high-level medical care to foreign populations during crises, military medicine acts as a stabilizing force that can improve global security and alter negative perceptions of the United States in sensitive geopolitical regions. Data-Driven Operational Readiness: The analysis of surgical logs and patient encounters from previous disaster relief missions is essential for modernizing military medical responses. Research has shown that historical staffing models based on combat trauma were often insufficient for natural disasters, leading to a new focus on deploying with the right mix of pediatric and geriatric resources to match the actual needs of the affected population. The Distinction Between Naval Medical Assets: Understanding the difference between Echelon 3 hospital ships and Echelon 2 casualty receiving and treatment ships is vital for logistical success. While hospital ships offer comprehensive, prolonged care similar to a land-based trauma center, amphibious warships provide essential damage control surgery and superior air and sea transport capabilities to move casualties efficiently. Servant Leadership in Chaos: Leading effectively in the high-stress, chaotic environment of a disaster zone requires a mindset of humility and service rather than authority. The most successful medical officers are those who maintain focus on the mission, prioritize the well-being of their team, and acknowledge that they must rely on the collective expertise of others to solve complex logistical and ethical problems. AI and the Future of Orthopedics: Advanced technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence and smart implants, are poised to revolutionize military and federal medicine by improving efficiency and outcomes. AI has the potential to alleviate provider burnout by automating non-clinical tasks, while sensor-embedded implants will provide objective data on patient recovery, allowing for proactive interventions and better long-term care.   Episode Keywords WarDocs, Military Medicine, Navy Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster Relief, USNS Mercy, USS Bataan, Tsunami Relief, Haiti Earthquake, Medical Diplomacy, Naval Health Research Center, Trauma Surgery, Global Health, Military Leadership, Soft Power, Navy Doctor, Hospital Ship, Warship Medicine, AI in Healthcare, Disaster Medicine, Servant Leadership Hashtags #MilitaryMedicine, #NavyDoctor, #OrthopedicSurgery, #DisasterRelief, #HumanitarianAid, #USNavy, #MedicalLeadership, #WarDocs   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

We are excited to release the main talks from our last Fall Conference, which was "VICTORIOUS: Equipped for the Battle, Anchored in Christ" and focused on spiritual warfare and the unseen battle for the next generation across Europe.   Our annual Josiah Venture Fall Conference is designed to equip our team for the year of ministry ahead. Every conference includes amazing teaching, worship, and fellowship. At the 2025 gathering, we learned to see the unseen, stand with authority, and fight with spiritual power—anchored in Christ's ultimate victory. We invite you to join us in being equipped for the battle. In this last episode of our Fall Conference teaching series, "Stand Firm for Our Nation," Executive Vice President of National Ministries, Ben Williams, shares how we can stand firm for our nation and commissions us for the battle.  During this "Victorious" teaching series, we have considered these three moves (see, stand, fight) in the context of our personal lives, disciple-making relationships, our church or team, and our nations. A battle is happening across Central and Eastern Europe for the hearts of the next generation.    We pray this teaching series on spiritual warfare has equipped you and reminded you that Jesus is victorious. We don't have to wonder how things will turn out. We know with confidence that Jesus wins!   Thank you for standing with us in the battle and for listening to this teaching episode of the podcast. If this series has been a blessing to you, please consider sharing it with others.      Connect with Us: Follow @josiahventure on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at josiahventure.com Contact: social@josiahventure.com Online Prayer Room Prayer Room App Summer Internships Mission Trips   Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!   Sign up for our new Monthly Podcast Newsletter!

   This special episode of WarDocs celebrates the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps by bringing together four distinguished leaders: Brigadier General Jamie Burk (27th ANC Chief), Retired Major General Jimmie Keenan (24th ANC Chief), Retired Brigadier General Bill Bester (21st ANC Chief), and Retired Brigadier General Clara Adams-Ender (18th ANC Chief). The conversation spans eight decades of history, tracing the evolution of the Corps from the Cold War and Vietnam eras to the persistent conflicts following 9/11. Each leader shares their "origin story," revealing the diverse paths—from ROTC scholarships to financial necessity—that led them to a career in military nursing. They discuss the professionalization of the Corps, including the implementation of baccalaureate requirements and advanced practice nursing, which ensured that Army nurses were prepared for both clinical excellence in medical centers and life-saving care on the battlefield.    The episode delves into pivotal moments in military medicine, such as the immediate response to the 9/11 attacks at the Pentagon and the critical efforts to rebuild trust in the care of wounded warriors through the Warrior Transition Units. The Corps Chiefs emphasize that the Army Nurse Corps is the "engine" and "heartbeat" of the Army Health System, defined by its projection of empathy and its fierce advocacy for the warfighter. They discuss the importance of mentorship, explaining how coaches and mentors encouraged them to pursue leadership roles where they could influence policy and "influence more hands" than they could at the bedside alone. Through the lens of these four pioneers, listeners gain an appreciation for the values of loyalty, duty, and personal courage that remain the core of the Corps. Join us in honoring the legacy of those who have served and those who continue to care for America's sons and daughters.   Chapters (00:00-14:13) Introduction and the Current State of the Corps with BG Jamie Burk (14:14-20:57) Rebuilding Trust and Honoring Sacrifice with MG(R) Jimmie Keenan (20:58-35:31) Force Projection and Professional Evolution with BG(R) Bill Bester (35:32-50:17) Policy, Leadership, and the Nursing Lifeline with BG(R) Clara Adams-Ender   Chapter Summaries (00:00-14:13) Introduction and the Current State of the Corps with BG Jamie Burk: The current Chief discusses her background from East Tennessee and the "origin story" of her journey from a biology major to a nursing leader. She highlights how the Corps has risen to the challenges of persistent conflict and previews the upcoming 125th-anniversary celebrations. (14:14-20:57) Rebuilding Trust and Honoring Sacrifice with MG(R) Jimmie Keenan: This section focuses on the transition of the Corps to a complex, volatile environment and the crucial role nurses played in rebuilding trust with wounded service members. The chapter concludes with a poignant tribute to the selfless service and sacrifice of Captain Jennifer Moreno. (20:58-35:31) Force Projection and Professional Evolution with BG(R) Bill Bester: BG Bester recounts the shift from peacetime healthcare to wartime readiness, emphasizing the increased educational standards and research initiatives within the Corps. He provides a unique perspective on being the only medical general in the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent mobilization. (35:32-50:17) Policy, Leadership, and the Nursing Lifeline with BG(R) Clara Adams-Ender: The 18th Chief shares her journey of 34 years, emphasizing the need for nurses to transition from the bedside to policy-making to "influence more hands." She describes the nurse as the essential lifeline of the healthcare system and encourages young nurses to maintain their seat at the table.   Take Home Messages Adaptability to the Operational Environment: The Army Nurse Corps has successfully evolved through various eras, from the Cold War to the Global War on Terror, by maintaining a dual identity as both soldiers and clinical experts. Leaders must remain flexible and ready to pivot from peacetime healthcare delivery to far-forward surgical support as the mission dictates. The Power of Advocacy and Policy: While clinical work at the bedside is the foundation of the profession, true systemic change occurs when nursing leaders step into executive roles to write policy and influence broader healthcare outcomes. Having a "seat at the table" ensures that the nursing perspective is represented in critical decision-making processes that affect patient care. Resilience Through Core Values: The enduring success of the Corps over 125 years is rooted in the Army values of loyalty, duty, and selfless service, which are personified by the actions of individual nurses on the battlefield. These values provide the moral compass necessary to navigate the volatility and ambiguity of modern military medicine. Investing in Professional Growth: Continuous development through specialty training, advanced degrees, and research is essential for maintaining the high standards of the Corps. Mentorship plays a pivotal role in this growth, as experienced leaders identify and coach the next generation to take on challenges they may not yet see in themselves. The Nurse as the System Engine: Nursing is the heartbeat of the Army Health System, acting as the primary lifeline for patients and a critical advocate for the warfighter. The "secret power" of the Corps lies in its ability to project empathy while simultaneously managing the complex logistics of medical readiness and force projection.   Episode Keywords Army Nurse Corps, Military Nursing, Army Medicine, Nursing Leadership, 125th Anniversary, Nurse Corps Chiefs, WarDocs Podcast, Military Healthcare, Patient Centered Care, Wounded Warrior, Combat Nursing, Nursing Education, Advanced Practice Nursing, Military History, Army Values, Force Readiness, Healthcare Policy, Nursing Research, 9/11 Pentagon, Clinical Excellence, Veteran Stories, Army Health System, Nurse Mentorship, Army ROTC, Medical History, Soldier Medic, Nursing Tradition, Executive Nursing, Nurse Advocacy, Military Medicine History Hashtags #ArmyNurseCorps, #WarDocs, #MilitaryMedicine, #NursingLeadership, #ArmyNursing, #NurseCorps125, #MilitaryNursing, #ArmyMedicine   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

(2 Kings 10:10) In this survey of 2 Kings, Scott traces how national decline often mirrors personal spiritual failure. This study highlights the consequences of idolatry and disobedience, the role of God's messengers, and the presence of a faithful remnant, and serves to remind all of our personal walk with God. Wise people understand the consequences of disobedience. It is much easier to learn this from the failure of others than to experience it for yourself. The illustrations in the kings provides instruction for each of us. (10019260122) Read Scott's book, The Need of Our Nation, HERE.  Join our study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/ Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/

   This episode features SFC Jacob Allen, an elite medic from the 75th Ranger Regiment currently transitioning into the Inter-service Physician Assistant Program (IPAP). With a background that includes six combat deployments, Allen offers a rare firsthand account of what it means to deliver medical care at the "tip of the spear." He describes the unique pressures of being the primary medical provider for a platoon of Rangers, where the responsibility is immense, and the environment is often austere. A major theme of the conversation is the 75th Ranger Regiment's culture of excellence, built on mastering basic medical skills and a relentless commitment to training both medics and non-medical infantrymen.    SFC Allen shares his expert insights on the evolution of military medical training and strongly advocates for realistic simulation. He explains why human roleplayers and "the feel of skin" are irreplaceable when preparing for high-stakes procedures like cricothyrotomies. Beyond the clinical technicalities, Allen delves into the leadership challenges he faced while managing medical readiness for multiple companies, emphasizing that the most difficult part of the job is often managing personalities and expectations. His transition from a senior non-commissioned officer to an officer candidate in IPAP is fueled by a lifelong passion for medicine and a desire to build longitudinal relationships with patients, a hallmark of the Battalion PA role.      The episode also serves as a practical guide for enlisted service members interested in IPAP. Allen breaks down the application process, from prerequisites and SAT scores to the importance of strong letters of recommendation. He concludes with profound leadership advice for junior officers, urging them to humble themselves and lean on the vast experience of their senior NCOs. SFC Jacob Allen's story is a testament to the "for the boys" philosophy—a commitment to putting the welfare and development of soldiers above all else. This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in special operations, advanced medical education, or the intersection of clinical excellence and military leadership. Chapters (00:00-01:28) Introduction to SFC Jacob Allen (01:28-09:16) Life as a Medic in the 75th Ranger Regiment (09:16-17:15) Realistic Training and Medical Simulation (17:15-26:47) Leadership Challenges and the Move to IPAP (26:47-38:45) Navigating the IPAP Application and Curriculum (38:45-51:00) Future Aspirations and Advice for Leaders Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:28) Introduction to SFC Jacob Allen: Dr. Soderdahl introduces SFC Jacob Allen, a student in the Inter-service Physician Assistant Program with an extensive background in the 75th Ranger Regiment. SFC Allen shares his unique path of enlisting with a college degree and his motivation to join the "family business" of military service. (01:28-09:16) Life as a Medic in the 75th Ranger Regiment: SFC Allen describes the immense responsibility of being a SOF medic, where one often operates on a "medical island" as the primary provider for a platoon. He emphasizes the Regiment's culture of training non-medics to high standards and notes that the unit's core is the professional development of young soldiers. (09:16-17:15) Realistic Training and Medical Simulation: This section explores SFC Allen's philosophy on medical training, which prioritizes extreme realism and the use of human role-players over high-tech mannequins. He discusses innovative "cheats" for simulation, such as using earbuds to communicate with role-players to better simulate patient feedback and clinical symptoms. (17:15-26:47) Leadership Challenges and the Move to IPAP: SFC Allen reflects on the difficulties of managing personalities across multiple companies and the realization that senior NCO roles eventually move away from direct clinical care. He explains his decision to join IPAP to stay close to medicine and his desire to emulate the influential Battalion PAs he served under. (26:47-38:45) Navigating the IPAP Application and Curriculum: SFC Allen provides a detailed breakdown of the IPAP selection process, including academic prerequisites, the PA-CAT, and the weight of NCOERs in the holistic review. He also describes the transition from the program's intensive didactic phase to his current emergency department clinical rotations. (38:45-51:00) Future Aspirations and Advice for Leaders: In the final chapter, SFC Allen discusses the expectation for PAs to return to conventional units before reassessing for SOF roles to learn the administrative side of the job. He offers final words of wisdom for junior officers, encouraging them to prioritize their troops' welfare and to value the mentorship of senior NCOs. Take Home Messages Master the Fundamentals First: Excellence in high-stakes environments is built upon the mastery of basic medical tasks and trauma care. Training should never "out-kick its coverage," as the ability to perform the basics perfectly under pressure is what saves lives on the battlefield. Prioritize Realistic Simulation: There is no substitute for human roleplayers and the tactile feedback of real skin and anatomy when training for medical procedures. Effective training should be as close to reality as possible, including the emotional intensity and physical complications of treating a real person. Leadership is About Managing People: Whether in a clinical setting or a combat unit, the greatest challenge of leadership is managing diverse personalities and expectations. Success requires a leader to adapt their communication style to the individual needs of their subordinates and commanders. NCO Experience is Invaluable to Officers: Junior officers must recognize that senior NCOs possess a level of operational experience that cannot be replicated in a classroom. Developing a humble, learner's mindset and leaning on NCO mentorship is essential for any officer to lead an effective medical team. Put the Soldiers First: True leadership is defined by the philosophy of being "for the boys," meaning the mission and the welfare of the troops always take priority over personal career advancement. A leader's legacy is found in the professional development and care they provide to the young soldiers under their charge.   Episode Keywords military medicine podcast, 75th Ranger Regiment, Army medic, combat medic, special operations medicine, SOCM, physician assistant, Army IPAP, military leadership, Ranger medic training, healthcare careers, military education, veteran stories, battlefield medicine, emergency medicine, military officer, enlisted to officer, 68W, medic training, Army Ranger stories, pre-hospital care, trauma medicine, medical simulation, IPAP application, Ranger Regiment medicine, medical student, clinical rotations Hashtags #rangers, #militarymedicine, #medic, #specialoperations, #physicianassistant, #veteran, #SOF, #leadership   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast      

   This special episode of WarDocs celebrates the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps by featuring four distinguished commanders: Colonel Margaret Berryman, Colonel Crystal Belew, Colonel Sarah Eccleston, and Colonel Briana Perata. Each guest shares her personal journey from commissioning to leading complex medical formations, highlighting how their foundational experiences as a nurse prepared them for the rigors of command.     Colonel Berryman introduces her "Five Ps" leadership philosophy—People, Purpose, Preparation, Partnership, and Performance—emphasizing that people are the military's greatest competitive advantage. Colonel Belew discusses the importance of proactive thinking learned in the operating room and her philosophy of "authentically caring" for both the mission and the personnel.  Colonel Eccleston reflects on building resiliency as a critical care nurse during peak conflict periods in Iraq and Afghanistan, advising leaders to "grow where they are planted" by excelling in every assigned role. Finally, Colonel Perata outlines her "Three Pillars" of leadership: Grit, Growth, and Grace. She emphasizes the necessity of grit in making difficult decisions, the continuous need for leader development and feedback for growth, and the humanizing power of grace and humility. Collectively, these leaders demonstrate that the nursing profession fosters critical thinking, prioritization, and an unwavering focus on people—skills essential to successful command at any level.    The episode also highlights the profound impact of mentorship, showing how senior leaders can recognize potential and shape the careers of junior officers. These stories of dedication and service offer valuable lessons for all military medicine professionals, regardless of rank or corps. Chapters (01:17-12:12) Leadership Philosophies at Winn Army Community Hospital: Colonel Margaret Berryman (12:12-21:45) Operational Medical Support and Authentic Caring in Germany: Colonel Crystal Belew (21:45-37:44) Building Resiliency from the Bedside to Hospital Center Command: Colonel Sarah Eccleston (37:44-46:44) Grit, Growth, and Grace at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research: Colonel Briana Perata Chapter Summaries (01:17-12:12) Leadership Philosophies at Winn Army Community Hospital: Colonel Margaret Berryman discusses her 22-year career and her "Five Ps" philosophy: People, Purpose, Preparation, Partnership, and Performance. She emphasizes how staff nursing and strategic roles taught her to prioritize frontline personnel and recognize that policies can be questioned and changed to meet the mission. (12:12-21:45) Operational Medical Support and Authentic Caring in Germany: Colonel Crystal Belew describes her role leading operational medical support in Europe and Africa, noting how her background as a perioperative nurse taught her to think proactively and stay steps ahead. Her leadership philosophy focuses on "authentically caring" by being who you truly are with your troops and genuinely valuing people over the mission alone. (21:45-37:44) Building Resiliency from the Bedside to Hospital Center Command: Colonel Sarah Eccleston explains how nursing inherently builds leadership through independent decision-making and flexibility, specifically citing her experiences in critical care during war as foundational to her resiliency. She shares a mentor's advice to "grow where you are planted," illustrating how excelling in less-desired roles can actually provide the most significant preparation for future command. (37:44-46:44) Grit, Growth, and Grace at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research: Colonel Briana Perata discusses how the Nurse Corps teaches prioritization and tough decision-making early on, which she buckets into the pillars of Grit, Growth, and Grace. She emphasizes accountability through grit, continuous leader development through growth, and humanizing leadership with grace and humble gratitude. Take Home Messages Prioritize People as a Competitive Advantage: Leaders must recognize that their personnel are their most valuable asset and that taking care of people directly enables the success of the mission. By focusing on individual needs and professional development, a commander can foster a team that naturally achieves high-performance results. Cultivate Proactive Thinking: Skills learned in clinical environments, such as the ability to anticipate needs and think several steps ahead, are directly transferable to medical command. Being proactive allows leaders to manage requirements effectively and remain prepared for unexpected mission shifts. Excel by Growing Where You Are Planted: Every military assignment has a purpose, even those that may not align with an officer's immediate desires or specialized background. Excelling in these roles builds a diverse portfolio of leadership experiences and often provides the most critical preparation for future command responsibilities. Lead with Grit, Growth, and Grace: Effective command requires the grit to make unpopular but necessary decisions and hold others accountable to high standards. This must be balanced with a commitment to continuous growth through feedback and the grace to lead with humility and genuine appreciation for the team. Authentically Care for Your Formation: Leadership is more than just a title; it is about making a human connection and genuinely caring for the personnel under your command. When leaders are authentic and focus on how they make their team members feel, they build trust, respect, and a more cohesive, high-functioning medical team. Episode Keywords Army Nurse Corps, military medicine, 125th anniversary, medical command, nursing leadership, Walter Reed, Winn Army Community Hospital, 519th Hospital Center, 29th Hospital Center, critical care nursing, perioperative nursing, medical mission, leadership philosophy, Army medicine, health care management, hospital command, grit growth grace, five Ps leadership, military nurse, nursing career, US Army, WarDocs Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WarDocs documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

    This episode celebrates the 125th anniversary of the U.S. Army Nurse Corps by profiling four newly commissioned officers completing their Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC). The conversation highlights the diverse backgrounds and motivations of these future leaders, ranging from a former Master Sergeant with 22 years of enlisted service to first-generation college graduates and officers. By sharing their personal journeys, the guests illustrate the profound commitment required to balance the dual roles of a soldier and a healthcare professional.    The officers discuss the core values that define their service, emphasizing respect, compassion, and the need to maintain professional balance. They detail the rigorous training and mindset shift required to move from bedside nursing to military leadership, where readiness and adaptability are paramount. The interviews reveal that the Army Nurse Corps provides unique opportunities far beyond traditional civilian nursing, including roles in command, specialty practice, and global broadening assignments.     A central theme throughout the episode is the "limitless" nature of a career in military medicine. Whether transitioning from a combat medic background or starting fresh through ROTC scholarships, these officers are driven by a desire to impact the lives of service members and their families worldwide. Their stories serve as an inspiring testament to the enduring legacy of the Nurse Corps and its critical role in medical readiness.    The final takeaway is one of optimism and professional pride. As these officers prepare for their first duty stations, they demonstrate a readiness to face the challenges of military medicine with enthusiasm and dedication. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the professional development, personal sacrifice, and high-level leadership that characterize the next generation of "WarDocs" in the Army Nurse Corps.   Chapters (00:00-01:34) Celebrating 125 Years of the Army Nurse Corps (01:34-04:30) From Master Sergeant to Nurse Practitioner- CPT Michael Morris (04:41-07:05) The Importance of Balance in Military Nursing- 2LT Julian Tagupa (07:09-09:43) First-Generation Success and Limitless Opportunities- 2LT Dana Williams (09:48-12:53) Leadership, Adaptability, and Readiness- 2LT Audrey Holder   Chapter Summaries (00:00-01:34) Celebrating 125 Years of the Army Nurse Corps: This introductory segment honors the historic 125th anniversary of the Corps and introduces the podcast's mission to spotlight future leaders. Host Jeff Clark sets the stage for interviews with officers currently completing their Basic Officer Leader Course. (01:34-04:30) From Master Sergeant to Nurse Practitioner: Captain Michael Morris shares his 22-year journey from a combat medic to an officer and Family Nurse Practitioner. He discusses the transition from high-level enlisted leadership back to direct patient care and the core values of service and compassion that drive his new role. (04:41-07:05) The Importance of Balance in Military Nursing: Second Lieutenant Julian Tagupa describes his transition from the National Guard to active duty and the passion for one-on-one patient influence. He emphasizes the critical need for balance between being an Army officer, a professional nurse, and maintaining a personal life. (07:09-09:43) First-Generation Success and Limitless Opportunities: Second Lieutenant Dana Williams highlights her path as a first-generation college graduate who found her calling in the Army Nurse Corps through ROTC. She discusses the limitless career paths available in the military, including the potential for high-level command and the foundational value of respect. (09:48-12:53) Leadership, Adaptability, and Readiness: Second Lieutenant Audrey Holder shares her motivation as a compassionate leader and the benefits of the ROTC nursing scholarship. She explains how the Army Nurse Corps requires a high degree of adaptability and readiness, preparing officers to lead healthcare teams and deploy at a moment's notice. Take Home Messages The Dual Identity of the Soldier-Nurse: Serving in the Army Nurse Corps requires mastering a unique dual identity where one must be both a tactical military leader and a compassionate healthcare provider. This balance is essential for maintaining readiness and providing high-quality care across diverse environments, from state-of-the-art hospitals to austere settings. Diverse Pathways to Professional Growth: The military offers robust career progression models that allow individuals to advance from enlisted roles, such as combat medics, to commissioned officer roles, such as Nurse Practitioners. These pathways demonstrate the Army's commitment to internal development and provide a platform for long-term professional fulfillment and leadership. Commitment to Medical Readiness and Adaptability: A core requirement for military medical officers is the ability to adapt to rapidly changing assignments and maintain constant readiness for deployment. This flexibility ensures that the healthcare team is always prepared to support the needs of the unit and the nation, regardless of the location or timeframe. Foundational Values of Respect and Compassion: The success of the Army Nurse Corps is built on core values such as respect for patients and peers, as well as a deep spirit of empathy. These values shape the military healthcare culture and are vital for building trust with service members and their families during critical moments of care. Global Impact and Limitless Career Opportunities: Unlike civilian nursing, a career in the Army Nurse Corps provides expansive opportunities in command, broadening assignments, and international service. This "limitless" potential allows officers to impact the broader Department of Defense mission while honing specialized clinical and leadership skills.   Episode Keywords Army Nurse Corps, military medicine podcast, US Army nursing, Basic Officer Leader Course, BOLC, nurse officer training, military healthcare careers, combat medic to nurse, nursing leadership, medical readiness, ROTC nursing scholarship, military nursing stories, first generation officer, Army healthcare team, nursing opportunities, military career paths, nurse practitioner stories, Army nursing history, medical officer training, healthcare leadership, veteran nurses, WarDocs, healthcare professional development, Army medical readiness. Hashtags #ArmyNurseCorps #MilitaryMedicine #WarDocs #ArmyNursing #BOLC #NurseOfficer #MilitaryHealthcare #VeteranStories #FutureLeaders #NursingCareer   Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.   Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm   WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield,demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.     Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

Episode Summary    In this inspiring episode of WarDocs, we are honored to feature the extraordinary journey of Retired Army Brigadier General Clara Adams-Ender. Rising from humble beginnings as one of ten children born to sharecroppers with limited formal education, she defied expectations to become a trailblazer in military medicine. Her story is a testament to the power of education, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Although she initially dreamed of becoming a lawyer, she honored her father's wishes to attend nursing school, a decision that launched a remarkable 34-year career culminating in her service as the 18th Chief of the Army Nurse Corps.    BG(R) Adams-Ender shares powerful anecdotes that defined her leadership philosophy, starting with her first assignment as a Second Lieutenant in an ICU. She recounts a tragic incident involving a Marine shot by a friend during horseplay, a moment that taught her the stark difference between "book learning" and the practical responsibilities of an officer to care for the discipline and safety of troops. She also details the grit required to become the first woman to earn the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB). Refusing to settle for the lower physical standards set for women at the time, she marched the full 12 miles alongside her male counterparts, proving that competence knows no gender.   Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the evolution of the Army Nurse Corps from a workforce viewed merely as labor to leaders in healthcare policy and administration. She discusses her time as an educator during the Vietnam War, mentoring students facing the draft and ethical dilemmas. General Adams-Ender passionately argues for the necessity of nurses having a "seat at the table" in healthcare leadership, noting that without a voice in policy, the profession cannot control its destiny. As the Army Nurse Corps approaches its 125th anniversary, she reflects on the core values of clinical excellence, administration, research, and education (CARE), offering timeless advice for the next generation of military medical professionals.   Chapters (00:00-06:40) From Sharecropper's Daughter to Nursing School (06:40-11:45) A Tragic Lesson in Leadership and Troop Welfare (11:45-17:15) Breaking Barriers to Earn the Expert Field Medical Badge (17:15-22:42) Educating Nurses During the Vietnam War Era (22:42-37:55) The Power of Policy and Having a Seat at the Table (37:55-45:34) Core Values and the Legacy of the Army Nurse Corps   Chapter Summaries (00:00-06:40) From Sharecropper's Daughter to Nursing School The guest discusses her family background, emphasizing her parents' deep value for education despite their limited schooling. She shares how she initially aspired to be a lawyer but followed her father's directive to attend nursing school, eventually discovering a passion for the challenge the profession provided. (06:40-11:45) A Tragic Lesson in Leadership and Troop Welfare Reflecting on her first assignment at Fort Dix, the guest describes the transition from academic theory to the practical realities of military nursing. She recounts a harrowing story of a young Marine shot due to horseplay, which served as a pivotal lesson on an officer's responsibility to maintain discipline and care for the troops beyond clinical duties. (11:45-17:15) Breaking Barriers to Earn the Expert Field Medical Badge The conversation shifts to the guest's historic achievement as the first woman to earn the EFMB. She details her determination to meet the same physical standards as the male soldiers, including marching 12 miles instead of the required 8 for women, viewing the grueling training as an opportunity to prove her capabilities. (17:15-22:42) Educating Nurses During the Vietnam War Era The guest describes her time as an instructor at Walter Reed, where she taught students from diverse backgrounds. She highlights the challenges of mentoring nursing students during the Vietnam War, helping them navigate their fears and obligations regarding deployment to a combat zone. (22:42-37:55) The Power of Policy and Having a Seat at the Table Moving into administration, the guest explains how she learned that writing good policy allows a leader to influence far more outcomes than hands-on care alone. She stresses the importance of nurses securing leadership roles to ensure they are in charge of their profession's destiny and not merely following orders from others. (37:55-45:34) Core Values and the Legacy of the Army Nurse Corps As the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps approaches, the guest reflects on the enduring values of the profession, using the acronym CARE. She concludes with a dedication to her mentors and offers advice to current nurses on maintaining standards and commitment to the mission.   Take Home Messages Leadership Requires Practical Adaptability Success in military medicine often requires unlearning the rigid structures of "book learning" to adapt to the practical realities of the environment. True competence is demonstrated not just by clinical knowledge, but by the ability to handle unexpected situations and the human dynamics of the troops under one's command. The Responsibility of the Officer Extends Beyond Patient Care A medical officer's duty is not confined to the hospital bed or the clinic; it encompasses the overall welfare, discipline, and safety of the soldiers. Preventing tragedy through discipline and looking out for the troops is as vital as treating the wounds that result when safety protocols fail. Equality is Proven Through Standards Breaking barriers and earning respect often comes from a refusal to accept lower standards based on gender or background. By voluntarily meeting the more rigorous requirements set for counterparts, a leader demonstrates resilience and capability that silences doubters and inspires the team. Influence Through Policy and Administration While direct patient care is the heart of medicine, long-term impact is achieved by securing a "seat at the table" in administration and policy-making. Writing effective policy allows a medical professional to guide the hands of thousands of others, shaping the destiny of the profession and improving care on a systemic level. Total Commitment to the Profession Medical service is difficult, demanding work that requires a full "all-in" mentality. The key to longevity and success is to make a firm decision to commit to the profession; once that decision is made, energy should be directed toward the mission and patient care rather than complaints or negativity.   Episode Keywords Clara Adams-Ender, Army Nurse Corps, EFMB, Expert Field Medical Badge, Military Medicine, Leadership, Women in Military, Black History, Vietnam War Nursing, Walter Reed, Nursing Education, Healthcare Policy, Mentorship, WarDocs, Army General, Brigadier General, Nursing Administration, Military History, Veteran Stories, Medical Podcast Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation. Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/ Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests Subscribe and Like our Videos on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) Veteran Run Organization run by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you. WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.   Follow Us on Social Media Twitter: @wardocspodcast Facebook: WarDocs Podcast Instagram: @wardocspodcast LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wardocspodcast

President Trump and Elon Musk go to war – again – as the Big Beautiful Bill rests on a razor's edge; Zohran Mamdani's ascension is a sign of how much mainstream Democrats now dislike America; and we talk about the risk of major economic dislocation as AI takes hold. Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE Ep.2230 - - - Facts Don't Care About Your Feelings - - - DailyWire+: Right now, when you join DailyWire+ for a year, we'll cover half of it. Join now at https://dailywireplus.com and use code FREEDOM. My new book, “Lions and Scavengers,” drops September 2nd—pre-order today at https://dailywire.com/benshapiro Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw - - - Today's Sponsors: Birch Gold - Text BEN to 989898 for your free information kit. Tax Network USA - For a complimentary consultation, call today at 1 (800) 958-1000 or visit their website at https://TNUSA.com/SHAPIRO Plus you'll get 10% off all services through July 4th as part of their celebration of Our Nation's Birthday. Grand Canyon University - Find your purpose at Grand Canyon University. Visit https://gcu.edu today. PreBorn! - Donate today and help save babies from abortion at https://preborn.com/BEN or dial #250 keyword 'BABY' - - - Socials: Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53  Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy

President Trump wins a series of victories at the Supreme Court; the Big, Beautiful Bill is on the verge of becoming law; and Zohran Mamdani proposes that white people pay higher taxes. Click here to join the member-exclusive portion of my show: https://bit.ly/3WDjgHE Ep.2228 - - - Facts Don't Care About Your Feelings - - - DailyWire+: Join millions of people who still believe in truth, courage, and common sense at https://DailyWirePlus.com My new book, “Lions and Scavengers,” drops September 2nd—pre-order today at https://dailywire.com/benshapiro Get your Ben Shapiro merch here: https://bit.ly/3TAu2cw - - - Today's Sponsors: Perplexity - Perplexity is an AI-powered answer engine that searches the internet to deliver fast, unbiased, high-quality answers, with sources and in-line citations. Ask Perplexity anything here: https://pplx.ai/benshapiro PureTalk - Switch to PureTalk and start saving today! Visit https://PureTalk.com/SHAPIRO Tax Network USA - For a complimentary consultation, call today at 1 (800) 958-1000 or visit their website at https://TNUSA.com/SHAPIRO Plus you'll get 10% off all services through July 4th as part of their celebration of Our Nation's Birthday. Legacybox - Visit https://legacybox.com/SHAPIRO to get 50% off today. Helix Sleep - Go to https://helixsleep.com/ben for an exclusive offer. SimpliSafe - Visit https://SIMPLISAFE.com/SHAPIRO to claim 50% off a new system with a professional monitoring plan and get your first month free.         Blinds - Save up to 40% sitewide, plus get a FREE professional measure at https://blinds.com - - - Socials: Follow on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3cXUn53  Follow on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3QtuibJ  Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3TTirqd  Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3RPyBiB - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy