Episodes

Aug. 20, 2025

The Best Resource Veterans & Military Spouses Need to Land Their Dream Job: Hire Heroes USA

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Ross Dickman, CEO of the leading veteran and military spouse employment organization, to discuss leadership development, communication challenges, and the unique obstacles military families face when transitioning to civilian life. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all t...
Aug. 6, 2025

Veterans Are Getting Cheated But The VFW Is Fighting Back

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Lynn Rolfe, the Programs Director at Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Lynn shares the organization's mission of advocating for veterans' rights, supporting their communities, and maintaining national security. The episode delves into the VFW's role in creating educational opportunities for high school students, tackling legislative advocacy in Washin...
July 23, 2025

Healing at Both Ends of the Leash with K9s for Warriors

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi spotlight the life-saving work of K9s for Warriors—the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs for military veterans. Guests Chris Luna and Wyatt Haynes join to share how the organization pairs veterans coping with PTSD, trauma, and transition with rescue dogs, offering a powerful path to healing, hope, and purpose. The conversation delves into the arr...
July 9, 2025

Jobless. Confused. Alone. How Vets2Industry Gives Veterans Hope Again

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi dive into the inspiring world of veteran support and transition resources with guest Carmen White, Chief Operating Officer of Vets2Industry. This nonprofit is dedicated to helping veterans, military spouses, and caregivers successfully transition into civilian life by providing mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities, and the innovative B2I She Boss progra...
June 25, 2025

Healing Through Nature: The Mission Behind Stoutreach

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Jason Stout, founder of Stoutreach. Jason shares his inspiring journey of overcoming personal loss through nature-based experiences and how he created a national wilderness program for grieving and at-risk teens. Learn about Stout's various initiatives that guide youth, military families, and adults toward resilience and personal growth. Discover th...
June 11, 2025

How the American Legion Transformed a Veteran’s Life

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Jeremy Eheart of the American Legion. They delve into Jeremy's journey from his time in the United States Marine Corps, his life-changing injury, to his dedicated service with the American Legion. Learn about the organization's impactful programs, including mental health initiatives like Be the One, veteran advocacy, and challenges faced by veterans...
May 28, 2025

How a Teen's Piggy Bank Changed Soldier Communication Forever

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Rob Bergquist, co-founder and Executive Director of Cell Phones for Soldiers. Rob shares the inspiring journey of how he and his sister Brittany started the nonprofit organization at the ages of 12 and 13 to help military members stay connected with their families. Find out how they’re continuing to innovate and serve the military community through ...
May 14, 2025

Taking the First ‘STEP’ to Financial Independence

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Tony Teravainen, CEO and co-founder of Support the Enlisted Project (STEP), to discuss the crucial work being done to assist young military families and transitioning veterans. Tony shares his extensive background and the journey of STEP since its inception in 2012, highlighting its mission to create financial wellness through counseling, education,...
April 30, 2025

Supporting Deployed Service Members with HeroBox

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi talk with Katy Saunders, Program Director at HeroBox. Together they delve into HeroBox's mission to provide personalized care packages to deployed service members, their Hero Day events, and how individuals and organizations can support deployed military members. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military l...
April 16, 2025

The Astonishing Legacy of a 9/11 Firefighter and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi have a heartfelt conversation with Jack Oehm, a retired FDNY Battalion Commander and current board member of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. This episode dives into Jack's contributions to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, its mission, and the impactful work being done, such as building smart homes for injured veterans and supporting the families of fallen first ...
April 2, 2025

Bridging the Gap for Military Students: A Look at Excelsior University's Commitment

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Dr. David Schejbal, President of Excelsior University. This episode unpacks Excelsior's profound commitment to serving military students and the unique support systems they have in place. Whether you're a prospective student, a veteran, or simply interested in higher education, this post will provides an overview of what makes Excelsior University a...
March 19, 2025

Exploring Careers in Military Banking with Major Terrell Murdock

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Major Terrell Murdoch, Army Banking Officer at U.S. Army Financial Management Command. The episode delves into Major Murdoch's background, his path into the military, his significant deployments, and the invaluable insights gained from the Training with Industry (TWI) program. Additionally, Major Murdoch shares his motivation, personal goals, and ad...
March 5, 2025

How to Find Humor in Military Life (Even When It’s Tough) with Ashley Gutermuth

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Ashley Gutermuth—military spouse, stand-up comedian, and podcast host. Known for her witty perspective and observations on life as a military spouse and relationships, Ashley discusses her unique journey, comedic inspirations, and her passion for advocating for military spouses. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that ...
Feb. 19, 2025

Financial Strategies for Active Duty and Veterans from Maj Gen Steven J. Lepper

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with retired Major General Steven J. Lepper to discuss his impressive military career, his role as AMBA CEO, and his dedication to financial literacy and support for veterans. Steve shares his insights on the Veterans Benefits Banking Program, advice on financial planning for military families, and his continued efforts to support military communities. ...
Feb. 5, 2025

How to Turn Military Discipline into Business Success: John Wayne Troxell’s Guide

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with John Wayne Troxell, a retired Command Sergeant Major who served for 38 years, including as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. John shares his experiences from various combat tours, his philosophy on physical and mental readiness, and offers valuable advice for those looking to join the military or start a busin...
Jan. 22, 2025

Hidden Financial Tips Every Recruit Needs Before Basic Training

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Jenni Reed, Vice President and Manager of the Recruit Department at Armed Forces Bank, to dive into the pivotal role of financial education for military recruits. They cover valuable tips for young recruits starting their military careers to jumpstart your financial empowerment, and the unique services provided by Armed Forces Bank to support military personnel. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank ...
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Jan. 8, 2025

Ep. 70 How the Wells Fargo Foundation Supports Financial Health and Community Growth

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Bonnie Wallace, Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo Foundation. Bonnie dives deep into her role leading financial health philanthropy and community impact, outlines the Foundation's major focus areas, such as financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. Bonnie also shares invaluable insights on the impactful p...
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Dec. 18, 2024

Ep. 69 The Wilderness Retreat Changing Veterans' Lives Forever

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Chris Joyce, a Marine Corps veteran and the Program Director for Huts for Vets, a nonprofit organization offering therapeutic wilderness experiences for veterans. He shares his personal journey, the impactful programs, and how Huts for Vets supports veterans in transitioning to civilian life, and highlights the unique healing journey that veterans u...
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Dec. 4, 2024

Ep. 68 Transforming Mental Health Care for Veterans with The Headstrong Project

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Dan Kaepernik, CEO of The Headstrong Project, a nonprofit that offers free, confidential mental health care to veterans. Learn about the Headstrong Project's mission to help veterans overcome trauma, its unique approach with speed to care, and the impressive results they've achieved. Dan also shares insights on mental health challenges within the mi...
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Nov. 20, 2024

Ep. 67 The Unexpected Way Military Kids Are Leading Change with NMFA

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Court Ogilvie, the Chief Operating Officer of the National Military Family Association (NMFA) to explore the organization’s advocacy for military families, spouse employment programs, and the impact of Operation Purple Camp. “Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the thin...
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Nov. 6, 2024

Ep. 66 How Operation Deploy Your Dress is Changing Military Life

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Yvonne Coombes, CEO, and co-founder of Operation Deploy Your Dress (ODYD), to discover the inspiring journey of how a simple dress swap at Fort Bliss turned into a national movement providing over 25,000 free formal gowns to military families. Learn about their 15th store opening at Fort Leavenworth, overcoming challenges of lacking permanent locati...
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Oct. 23, 2024

Ep. 65 Celebrating 20 Years and 400 Homes: CEO of Homes For Our Troops Tom Landwermeyer

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Brigadier General, USA Retired, Tom Landwermeyer, the President and CEO of Homes For Our Troops (HFOT). This nonprofit organization has the noble mission of building specially adapted custom homes for the most severely injured post-9/11 veterans, helping them to rebuild their lives. As HFOT celebrates its 20th anniversary and its 400th home mileston...
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Oct. 9, 2024

Ep. 64 Military Money Management: Insights from the National Foundation for Credit Counseling

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Media Relations and Membership at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), a prestigious organization dedicated to helping individuals manage their finances, build credit, and achieve their financial goals. Together they discuss the complexities of financial well-being, and dive deep into the curr...
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Sept. 25, 2024

Ep. 63 Break the Silence: Tanya Oxendine’s Story of Survival and Healing with Wounded Warrior Project

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery. In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Tonya Oxendine, a spokesperson for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tanya shares her poignant story of joining the U.S. Army to escape a difficult childhood, enduring harassment during her nearly 30-year military career, and facing severe PTSD after her deployment in Afghanistan. She discusses the crucial support she received from the Wounded Warrior Pr...