
Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
Podcast Focus
Publishing Consistency
Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Total monthly reach
Estimated from 5 chart positions in 5 markets.
By chart position
- 🇺🇸US · Film Interviews#1225K to 30K
- 🇦🇺AU · Film Interviews#1335K to 30K
- 🇮🇹IT · Film Interviews#1161K to 10K
- 🇨🇭CH · Film Interviews#603K to 10K
- 🇳🇿NZ · Film Interviews#107500 to 3K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
7.3K to 42K🎙 ~2x weekly·173 episodes·Last published 5d ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
15K to 83K🇺🇸36%🇦🇺36%🇮🇹12%+2 more - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
5.8K to 33K
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
—
* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
Recent episodes
The Punisher: How Nick Koumalatsos Breathed Humanity Back Into Jon Bernthal's Frank Castle
Jun 1, 2026
55m 26s
Dancing with Text: How Ray Porter Brings Jack Carr's Books to Life by Getting Out of the Way
May 25, 2026
1h 04m 40s
Forward Thrust: How Douglas Brunt Uses Narrative to Draw Connections Historians Have Missed
May 18, 2026
50m 43s
The Fourth Option: How Jack Carr Navigated Collaboration and Control to Build a New Universe
May 11, 2026
32m 52s
No Heroic Measures: Jessica Danger on Telling the Truth About Grief, Addiction, and Shared Humanity
May 4, 2026
1h 02m 03s
Social Links & Contact
Official channels & resources
Official Website
Login
RSS Feed
Login
| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/1/26 | ![]() The Punisher: How Nick Koumalatsos Breathed Humanity Back Into Jon Bernthal's Frank Castle | Do it right, or don’t do it at all. In episode 179, Nick Koumalatsos returns to Veteran Made to talk about his work as a consulting producer on The Punisher: One Last Kill and his collaboration with Jon Bernthal to bring Frank Castle back to the screen with honesty, weight, and realism. Nick shares how his own background as a Force Recon Marine and special operations veteran helped shape the character, from the tactical details to the deeper emotional truth of a man who has lost his identity, his purpose, and the people who mattered most to him. We talk about how Nick’s book, Excommunicated Warrior, influenced parts of Frank’s arc, why the story needed to show rock bottom instead of explain it, and what it means to portray veterans and special operations service members as human beings rather than untouchable icons. We also get into the craft behind the film itself — working with Jon Bernthal and the stunt team to build realistic action sequences, refining weapons manipulation and close quarter combat, and understanding the difference between what is real in life and what reads as real on camera. This is a conversation about transition, accountability, purpose, brotherhood, pain, and the responsibility of telling these stories the right way in the most grounded depiction of a modern veteran in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/nickkoumalatsos/ | 55m 26s | ||||||
| 5/25/26 | ![]() Dancing with Text: How Ray Porter Brings Jack Carr's Books to Life by Getting Out of the Way | Discipline, humility, resilience, and what it means to serve the story first. In episode 178, I sit down with acclaimed actor and audiobook narrator Ray Porter for a wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, performance, and how a workmanlike approach to the craft has shaped his career. Ray discusses narrating Jack Carr’s The Fourth Option, the start of a new series and character outside the Terminal List universe, and what it’s like to bring Jack’s words to life after years of collaboration across fiction and nonfiction. He shares his unconventional approach to audiobook narration — reading cold, letting the text lead, and trying to disappear so the listener can connect directly with the story. We also dig into the physical, mental, and creative demands of narration, the difference between acting on stage, screen, and behind the mic, and why audiobook work is far more difficult than many people assume. The conversation moves from craft to calling, touching on burnout, creative renewal, theater, imposter syndrome, and the importance of building a full life outside the work itself. Ray also reflects on his role as Darkseid in Zack Snyder’s Justice League, the long road from being cut out of the theatrical release to finally hearing audiences cheer when the #SnyderCut arrived. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/the.ray.porter/ | 1h 04m 40s | ||||||
| 5/18/26 | ![]() Forward Thrust: How Douglas Brunt Uses Narrative to Draw Connections Historians Have Missed | Forgotten history, political complexity, storytelling, and the strange ways oil, empire, and ideology have shaped the modern world. In episode 177, I sit down with bestselling author Douglas Brunt to discuss The Lost Empire of Emanuel Nobel, a sweeping narrative history about oil, revolution, and the forgotten Nobel heir who helped power the war machine. Doug shares how Emanuel Nobel’s story emerged from his previous book on Rudolf Diesel, why the Russian Nobel family was effectively erased from history, and how Emanuel’s oil empire collided with the rise of Stalin, Lenin, the Bolsheviks, and the violent upheaval of the Russian Revolution. Our conversation explores how narrative nonfiction can make history feel alive, why history is often more complicated than textbooks suggest, and how massive global shifts are experienced by real people on the ground. We also dig into the craft of writing: research rabbit holes, index cards, archival discoveries, footnotes, building narrative momentum, and the challenge of turning dense historical material into a story with real forward thrust. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/douglas_brunt/ | 50m 43s | ||||||
| 5/11/26 | ![]() The Fourth Option: How Jack Carr Navigated Collaboration and Control to Build a New Universe | Jack Carr is back on episode 176 to talk about The Fourth Option — his first thriller outside of the James Reece and Terminal List universe. This one still has all the flavor: authenticity, action, and the kind of detail that only comes from lived experience. But it also introduces a new character, Chris Walker, who brings a very different energy — part warfighter, part searcher, part philosopher, and very much his own man. Jack and I talk about building a new universe, collaborating with co-author M.P. Woodward, the challenge of letting someone else into your creative process, and why Jack still feels responsible for making every book better than the last. We also get into what it means to write honestly about the Afghanistan withdrawal, suicide in the veteran community, and the weight veterans carry when the right decisions still lead to painful outcomes. It’s a conversation about craft, responsibility, service, storytelling, and the pursuit of doing the work better every single time. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/jackcarrusa/ | 32m 52s | ||||||
| 5/4/26 | ![]() No Heroic Measures: Jessica Danger on Telling the Truth About Grief, Addiction, and Shared Humanity | On episode 175, I’m joined by writer, educator, and friend Jessica Danger to talk about her memoir, No Heroic Measures. This conversation is about grief, addiction, caregiving, estrangement, sobriety, and the responsibility that comes with telling the truth on the page. Jessica and I talk about how she shaped an incredibly personal story into a memoir, what it means to tell the truth, and why specificity really is generosity. We also get into the writing process itself — the messy drafts, the revisions, the details you keep, the details you cut, and how sometimes the story you think you’re writing is not the story at all. This one is personal, thoughtful, and deeply human. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/mamadanger/ | 1h 02m 03s | ||||||
| 4/27/26 | ![]() Crafting Humanity: How Luke Tennie Worked with Shrinking's Writers to Create a Whole Character | Responsible storytelling + creative collaboration = veteran characters who have depth, purpose, and a future. In episode 174, I sit down with Luke Tennie to talk about his role as Sean on Apple TV's Shrinking and why the character has resonated so deeply. Luke shares how he approached playing Sean with care, how he and one of the writers on the show, Bill Posley, crafted him Sean as a full human being instead of just a stereotype, and why humor, pain, community, and accountability all matter in telling this kind of story. We also dig into the deeper themes behind Sean’s arc: PTSD, self-harm, isolation, entrepreneurship, group therapy, and the hard work of full reintegration after service. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/luke.tennie | 32m 04s | ||||||
| 3/31/26 | ![]() Authenticity Isn't Optional: How Rudy Reyes Brings All of Himself to his Roles in Film, Television, and Advertising | We must be the ones telling these stories. Not just consulting. Not just advising. Leading. Creating. Producing. Representing ourselves with precision and truth across every level and in every facet of the industry. If we don’t step up, culture will continue to get it wrong. In episode 173, I sit down with the wild man himself, Rudy Reyes — Marine Corps veteran, actor, stunt coordinator, producer, the driving force behind FOX’s Special Forces. Our conversation cuts straight to the core of what authentic storytelling demands. Rudy doesn’t just play roles — he lives them, bringing hard-earned truths from the battlefield to film, television, and commercial advertising. We dive into his latest work as the lead in the VA’s Face Your Dragon campaign, a powerful PSA focused on securing firearms in the home to prevent veteran suicide. This is more than representation, it’s responsibility. Rudy breaks down how his experience as a warfighter directly informs his work as an actor, stunt coordinator, and producer, and why that level of authenticity cannot be faked or outsourced. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/realrudyreyes/ https://www.instagram.com/newwarproductions/ | 57m 18s | ||||||
| 3/9/26 | ![]() Tell Your Own Story: How Mark Harper Built a Powerhouse Team of Veterans to Produce the VA's Most-Ever Viewed PSA Campaign | On episode 172, I sit down with my friend Mark Harper — Air Force veteran, executive producer, and founder of GigLine Media — to unpack how a group of military storytellers pulled off one of the most ambitious PSA campaigns the VA has ever attempted. Mark’s journey runs from combat camera documenting the wars in Iraq and Africa to helping build We Are The Mighty into one of the most influential online media platforms for veterans before launching his own advertising agency. In this conversation, we dig into the real mechanics of representation in media — why veteran stories should be written, produced, and directed by the people who actually lived them — and how that philosophy shaped the VA’s bold “Face Your Dragon” campaign. Mark and I break down how he partnered with director Ryan Curtis, producer Chase Milsap, and star Rudy Reyes to build a piece of storytelling that’s unapologetically cinematic, deeply creative, and unmistakably direct. We talk about the risks of pitching a VFX dragon for a government campaign, the realities of producing high-end visual effects on a shoestring budget, and why veterans working as writers, producers, and creators matters more than ever. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/markharper147/ | 56m 20s | ||||||
| 3/4/26 | ![]() Face Your Dragon: How Ryan Curtis Convinced the VA to Meet Veterans Where They Are | Does it matter who’s telling the story? In episode 171, I sit down with my friend, Ryan Curtis — an accomplished director, filmmaker, and producer — to unpack the creative and emotional mission behind the powerful new PSA campaign for the VA and DoW, “Face Your Dragon.” This campaign tackles one of the hardest conversations in the veteran and military community: suicide prevention. Ryan walks me through how he approached concepting a message that had to be both responsible and deeply human, and we talk about the role of storytelling in public service campaigns that carry real-life consequences. From concept to execution, Ryan shares what it means to direct a national message for the veteran community while balancing authenticity, trust, and impact. We also dig into the bigger picture of representation and storytelling in media targeted to the veteran community. Ryan breaks down the creative choices behind Face Your Dragon, the challenges of producing meaningful PSA content, and what filmmakers and producers can learn from working on campaigns that aim to save lives. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/ryan32curtis/ | 1h 08m 15s | ||||||
| 2/17/26 | ![]() BattleLab: Where Modern Warfare Meets Modern Media with Ethan Nagel | Can we build a blueprint for how the right content can pressure institutions to evolve? In episode 170, I sat down with my buddy Ethan Nagel — veteran infantryman and lethal filmmaker who lives at the intersection of modern warfare and modern media. He breaks down exactly what he and the team at VET TV are building with BattleLab, a new live action show that drops two teams of elite operators into high pressure missions that push new military technology to its limits. This episode is a straight shot of reality: FPV attack drones are the new IEDs, and the next war is going to punish anyone clinging to comfort. Ethan explains how BattleLab fuses real-world lessons from Ukraine with hands-on experimentation — pitting elite, Tier One operators against emerging drone tactics to expose what works, what fails, and what gets people killed. He also gets brutally specific on storytelling and craft because BattleLab isn’t “tactical content,” it’s a serious training-adjacent series built by people who actually understand the battlefield and how audiences learn. Ethan walks through the production reality: why the first “sports broadcast” approach didn’t hold attention, how they rebuilt the format around after-action breakdowns, and how he balances cinematic filmmaking with capturing honest, usable footage that infantry leaders can actually apply. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/ethan.nagel.films/ https://www.instagram.com/vet_tv/ https://www.instagram.com/battlelabhq/ https://www.instagram.com/jeddoc_labs/ | 49m 14s | ||||||
Want analysis for the episodes below?Free for Pro Submit a request, we'll have your selected episodes analyzed within an hour. Free, at no cost to you, for Pro users. | |||||||||
| 2/10/26 | ![]() Cold Zero: Brad Thor & Ward Larsen on Cinematic Storytelling Through Thriller Novels | What really makes great storytelling work in the modern thriller genre? In episode 169, I sit down with two powerhouse thriller authors — Brad Thor and Ward Larsen in a conversation about COLD ZERO, their latest thriller. Centered on shared experience, military service, discipline, and a relentless respect for the craft, our conversation explores why authenticity matters in thrillers and how deep genre knowledge — from tradecraft to aviation — creates books that feel cinematic without losing emotional weight. What really stood out to me is how aggressively Brad and Ward lean into collaboration as a competitive advantage. These are two seasoned writers who didn’t just co-author a novel, they merged similar work ethics, complementary skills, and a shared belief that the best stories come from trust, humility, and putting in the work. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/realbradthor/ https://www.instagram.com/wardlarsenbooks/ | 46m 41s | ||||||
| 12/1/25 | ![]() Sheepdog: Matt Dallas on the Power and Importance of Independent Filmmaking | In episode 168 of Veteran Made, I sit down with actor and indie film producer Matt Dallas to dig into what it really means to commit more than a decade of your life to one movie and one story. We talk about how Sheepdog grew over a 10-year journey across the country, sitting with veterans, Gold Star families, and mental health professionals in living rooms, dive bars, and VA clinics . Matt opens up about breaking out of typecasting, transforming himself physically and emotionally for the role of Daryl, and learning to trust his craft as an actor while juggling the chaos of being a hands-on filmmaker responsible for casting, background, and logistics. If you care about movies, cinema, and honest performances that come from real human connection, this conversation shows what it looks like when an actor and producer refuses to phone it in and instead builds a character from years of direct engagement with the veteran community. We also get unapologetic about why independent film — especially adult dramas like Sheepdog — has to exist in theaters and why audiences have to show up if they want better movies. Matt and I talk about getting laughed out of rooms and the pressure to swap out the director or cast a bigger name just to unlock financing. We break down how hard it is for a small, veteran-centered drama to secure a 500-screen theatrical run, why dumping these films straight to streaming buries them, and how voting with your ticket — by actually going to the theater — directly decides which stories actors, producers, and filmmakers get to tell next. If you’re a veteran, a movie lover, or someone who believes cinema still matters, this episode is a call to action: fund indie films, buy tickets, bring your friends, and help keep real, grounded stories on the big screen where they belong. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/mattdallas/ https://www.instagram.com/sheepdogthemovie/ https://www.instagram.com/teamhousestudios/ | 46m 58s | ||||||
| 11/19/25 | ![]() Sheepdog: Steven Grayhm on Telling the Truth and not Bending the Knee to Hollywood | In episode 167, I sit down with actor, writer, director, and producer Steven Grayhm to dig into the 14-year journey behind his new movie Sheepdog and why truthful storytelling about veterans and combat trauma cannot afford to be filtered through a political lens. From his first encounter with a struggling tow truck driver in 2011 to years embedded with veterans, families, and VA clinicians, Steven shares how listening without prejudice became the foundation of this film and why he refused to “bend the knee” to Hollywood to get it made. Sheepdog is not another war movie or PTSD cliché but a deeply human story about post-traumatic growth, fragmented families, and the way ordinary people carry extraordinary burdens. Throughout our conversation, we challenge the idea that stories about war, veterans, and mental health should serve any party, policy, or culture-war narrative, and argue aggressively that they must exist to serve the people who actually lived them — period. We unpack how character, craft, and performance can honor veterans and Gold Star families without turning them into propaganda pieces or pity objects, and why audiences deserve movies and podcasts that tell the truth as we see it, even when that truth is messy, uncomfortable, or unflattering to anyone’s politics. If you care about actors doing the work, about movies that respect the veteran community, and about storytelling that refuses to be weaponized, this episode will give you a clear, uncompromising case for art that chooses honesty over agenda every single time. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/sheepdogthemovie/ https://www.instagram.com/sgrayhm/ https://www.instagram.com/teamhousestudios/ | 59m 05s | ||||||
| 11/10/25 | ![]() Full Metal Jacket: Matthew Modine on Working with Stanley Kubrick to Tell a War Story | In episode 166, I sit down with Matthew Modine who played Private Joker in Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket, for a direct and powerful conversation about the intersection of art, memoir, and the real experiences of Veterans. Our discussion went past surface nostalgia and straight into war, trauma, and the lifelong transition veterans face after leaving service. Matthew’s journey as both an actor and memoirist — through his Full Metal Jacket Diary — demonstrates the force of honest storytelling in giving veterans a space to process and share the truth. We focused on the way art and memoir can offer authenticity and connection, which is crucial for those looking to make sense of war’s realities and the transition home. Storytelling matters to the veteran community because it allows us to recount sensitive subjects like war and combat trauma without agenda or politics. The real power comes from telling our stories exactly as we see and remember them, openly and honestly. In our discussion, Matthew and I made it clear that sharing these narratives is critical—not just for healing, but for ensuring veterans aren’t left isolated with their experiences. By holding up a mirror to our journey, rather than a mask, we help others understand the costs and complexities of service, validating the memoir, the film, and every veteran’s art as necessary acts of truth. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/matthewmodine/ | 57m 05s | ||||||
| 10/13/25 | ![]() Toad in a Glass Jar: Stan Lake on the Full Spectrum of the Warfighter's Experience | In episode 165, I sit down with my friend Stan Lake — author, poet, naturalist, filmmaker, and veteran — to dig into his new poetry collection, “Toad in a Glass Jar,” published by Dead Reckoning Collective. Stan and I have shared campfires, conversations about art, music, and nature, and countless stories about the weird, wild intersections of service and life after the military. His writing pulls from his deep love of nature and his lived experience as a veteran, exploring the messy integration and disintegration that comes with transition. Our discussion gets to the heart of why art and honest storytelling around combat trauma, war, and the veteran transition matter and not just for those who’ve served, but for anyone who cares about understanding real human experience in all its contradictions and complexity. Storytelling is more than just catharsis; it’s survival. Veterans need to connect with each other and with broader audiences, to name, shape, and share their stories — including the hard and the sensitive stuff — because it’s how we combat isolation, build meaning, and lower the risk of mental health challenges that can haunt our community. As a veteran, author, and creative, I believe it’s absolutely necessary to claim the power in our own voices, whether through poetry, essays, music, or conversation. If this episode shows anything, it’s that writing and art aren’t luxuries but essential tools for processing experience, finding connection, and supporting each other through the ongoing work of transition. If you’ve got something to say, say it. If you need a community, build it. Your story matters. We need to hear it. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/catchingcreation/ | 54m 30s | ||||||
| 10/6/25 | ![]() Narrative History: Jake Tapper on Making Non-Fiction Thrilling, Entertaining, and Accessible | In episode 164, I sat down with Jake Tapper, acclaimed journalist, author, and host of The Lead with Jake Tapper and State of the Union on CNN, to dive deep into his forthcoming book “Race Against Terror.” Our conversation covered why history, especially the stories of terrorism and the global war on terror, must be told through the human perspective. Jake talked about how he blends journalistic accuracy with the compelling narrative techniques of fiction to keep difficult subjects accessible and — yes — entertaining. It’s not enough to list facts or relay tragedies; the only way to reach people is to show why these stories matter on a personal level, connecting readers to the real emotions and experiences of those swept up in events that shape our world. Storytelling about terrorism and history isn’t just about recounting the headlines. It’s about making sure the stories don’t lose their humanity or get buried by controversy. Jake and I agreed that the reason podcasts and books about true crime resonate is because they deliver messy realities with genuine empathy and a structure that draws people in. If we treat terrorism, ideology, or even trauma as disconnected cases or dry bullet points, we lose the chance to learn, empathize, and possibly prevent the next tragedy. Entertaining, accessible storytelling brings people together at the deepest level. It demands answers and spurs personal reflection while empowering us to see the past not just as a series of political moves but as an ongoing human drama full of heartbreak, forgiveness, and difficult choices. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/jaketapper/ | 53m 27s | ||||||
| 9/29/25 | ![]() Cry Havoc: Jack Carr on World Building and the Ever Expanding Terminal List Universe | In episode 163, I sit down with Jack Carr — veteran, bestselling author, and screenwriter — to talk about Cry Havoc, his latest addition to The Terminal List series of novels and the evolving journey from page to screen. Our conversation dives into how Jack’s relentless world building isn’t just about crafting thrillers; it’s about intentionally seeding story elements that let him explore multiple generations and secret corners of the narratives he creates as both a novelist and as a showrunner. If you’re driven to tell stories at the highest levels, every decision is an opportunity to lay groundwork for future storytelling, and no detail is too small if it sets the stage for new layers of exploration. Jack and I talk about the differences between writing for the screen and for the page and discuss how living as both a screenwriter and an author challenges and grows his craft. Collaborating with a creative team to build a TV series from a book is a radically different experience than solo writing, but mastering one makes him sharper and more flexible in the other, ultimately enriching character development, authenticity, and the stories themselves. We talk about the accountability that comes with a passionate fanbase, the reward of honoring veterans by getting the details right, and how creating in both worlds — the page and the screen — lets us explore the deepest truths in the universe we build. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/jackcarrusa/ | 29m 37s | ||||||
| 9/4/25 | ![]() Terminal Leave: How an Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Built a Career on Connection | In episode 161, I dive deep into the heart of life after service, exploring what it means to transition from the military into the creative world of media and storytelling. I sit down with my friend, Martin Foster, a retiring Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, podcaster, speaker, and actor, to unpack the journey of moving from rigid military identity to embracing a brand new chapter fueled by passion, creativity, and self-discovery. Our candid conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being vulnerable, especially for those who never quite fit into traditional molds. Together, we break down how forging your own path as a veteran podcaster, media professional, and influencer means trusting your instincts, owning your interests, and standing aggressively in your authenticity. Martin shares his story of retiring after 23 years in the Air Force, emphasizing how shedding an old identity is only the start of something far more exciting and fulfilling. We get real about the power of connection—how acting, podcasting, and public speaking empower veterans and creatives alike to own every piece of their story. For anyone searching for a blueprint to thrive after service, this episode delivers actionable insights on staying true to yourself, using your unique voice in media, and boldly building new communities. If you’re ready to rewrite what it means to be a veteran, challenge the status quo, and launch your next big adventure, this conversation is for you. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/torchmartin/ | 57m 09s | ||||||
| 8/25/25 | ![]() If You Can Dream It, Be It: How a Girl Became a Marine, an Olympic Athlete, and a Pageant Queen | In episode 160, I sit down with Marine Corps captain and children’s book author, Riley Tejcek, to dive into what it really takes for a veteran to step into the world of publishing. Riley shares her journey from serving as an officer and competing for Team USA as a bobsled pilot, to becoming a children’s book author with You Can Dream It, Be It!” published by End Game Press. We dig into how her military experiences — discipline, attention to detail, and resilience — helped her endure the publishing process but also how the military mindset of over-planning almost became an obstacle to finishing the manuscript. Veterans often believe every plan must be airtight before executing, but as Riley explains, creativity rewards bias toward action. If you wait too long to perfect the idea, the impact never reaches the audience. What struck me most in this conversation is how Riley’s experience as a Marine officer taught her to lead, focus, and push forward with confidence and how those same traits can easily turn into perfectionism and overthinking when applied to the creative process. We talk about the balance between truth and storytelling, why stepping into the unfamiliar world of children’s literature matters for veterans, and how writing offers not just another career outlet but also a way to bridge the military-civilian divide. If you’re a veteran who’s ever thought about writing, creating, or publishing, this episode is fuel. You’ll leave hearing Riley’s advice loud and clear: stop planning, start writing, and trust the process. In this episode: •My daughter meets Riley and shares her favorite part of the book •Riley’s background as a Marine Corps Captain, Team USA bobsledder, and Division I softball player leading into children’s book authorship •The motivation to write a children’s book so kids, especially girls, can see female military role models early in life •How much of the book is autobiographical and rooted in her real family and mentors •The military mindset of over-planning versus the creative necessity of acting and writing before things are “perfect” •Lessons from the publishing process: seeking advice, facing rejection, and choosing a publisher over self-publishing •Challenges of collaboration with editors and learning to truly write for children •The impact the book has on both children and their parents, showing how parents serve as everyday role models •Future creative plans, including another children’s book focused on deployment and global service Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/riley.tejcek/ | 55m 33s | ||||||
| 8/18/25 | ![]() Reinventing Film Noir: How an Army Veteran Modernized a Classic Genre | In episode 159, I spoke with Ryan Curtis, an Army veteran and the writer, director, and producer of Hollywood Grit. Ryan shares his journey from growing up in a working-class town outside Boston, serving in the Army during the height of the Global War on Terror, and ultimately finding his calling as a storyteller and director. We dive into his path of learning the movie business the hard way — by doing every job on set so that when the time came to direct, he had the tools, taste, and leadership skills needed to succeed. This episode highlights how veteran discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving translate perfectly into the high-pressure world of film production. We also talk about how Ryan leveraged his military-honed leadership style to build a crew, direct actors, and bring together a creative team capable of producing a full-length Hollywood movie against massive odds, including the pandemic, strikes, funding obstacles, and industry politics. Ryan not only directed and co-wrote Hollywood Grit, a modern neo-noir film set in a jazz club, but he also employed over 50 veterans on set, using his platform to create opportunities for other veterans. We discuss the role of Veterans in Media and Entertainment (VME) in connecting veterans to meaningful work in the movie business and why saying yes to failure is the secret to growth. In this episode: •Post-9/11 deployments •Military to civilian transition and creative career shift •Importance of learning every role on a film set to build experience •Veteran skills (leadership, adaptability) powering film production •Journey to directing and co-writing “Hollywood Grit” •Overcoming pandemic, strikes, and funding woes in independent film production •Hiring other veterans •Value of teamwork, collaboration, and the development of artistic taste •Veterans in Media and Entertainment (VME) as industry gateway Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ https://www.instagram.com/ryan32 https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodgritfilm/ | 54m 02s | ||||||
| 8/11/25 | ![]() From Netflix to Disney: How an Army Veteran Became an Industry Veteran | In episode 158, we pick up where we left off with Daril Fannin, founder of KINO — the highs and lows of Hollywood, lessons learned from working with icons like Jimmy Kimmel and Matt Damon, and navigating the collapse of promising projects. Daril opens up about personal rock bottom moments, the resilience built in military service, and how those skills power success in the entertainment industry. This episode breaks down the realities of creative constraints versus total freedom, as Daril shares insights on moving from indie projects to studio environments like Netflix and ABC with practical advice on collaborative writing, pitching ideas, reworking comedy for network TV, and tackling studio notes with humility. We also spotlight Daril’s latest venture — tech innovations to combat piracy and empower filmmakers with his secure, interactive platform for feedback, review, and global film festival experiences. Discover how the transition from military to creative entrepreneur shapes leadership and how veterans’ unique skills drive scalable businesses in creative fields. In this episode: •Navigating Hollywood after the military •Creative constraints in TV and advertising •Collaborating with legends like Jimmy Kimmel and Bruce Campbell •Authentic character development and universal storytelling •Tackling film industry challenges—piracy, indie finance, and distribution windows •Building, scaling, and leading organizations with military principles •Tech solutions for modern filmmakers, featuring Streamkey Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ http://x.com/veteranmade.ck https://www.instagram.com/darilfannin/ https://www.instagram.com/kinomakesmovies/ https://x.com/kinomakesmovies | 52m 38s | ||||||
| 8/4/25 | ![]() From a Cult to the Army to Hollywood: How an Army Veteran Landed a Netflix Show in Film School | In episode 157, I sit down with Daril Fannin — Army veteran, award-winning screenwriter, producer, and the founder of KINO — for a raw, energetic conversation about his path from military life to Hollywood and the power of authentic human interaction. We dive deep into Daril’s upbringing in a fundamentalist Pentecostal cult, his eye-opening introduction to the world of movies, and how storytelling literally changed the course of his life. Daril’s journey from combat medic to making deals with A-list celebrities in the entertainment industry demonstrates exactly what’s possible when we choose to connect with others on a human level to build genuine relationships. We don’t sugarcoat the grind or the realities of transitioning from the military to an industry as ruthless as entertainment. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a real way of being and a real strategy for building a fulfilling, sustainable career. Cinema is more than escape; it’s communal, foundational, and instructive. It shapes the very way we see the world. Through Daril’s story, we break down the myth that success in Hollywood is about who you know or luck — it’s about being deliberate with your relationships, relentless in your pursuit, and refusing to settle for transactional exchanges when you can build meaningful human connection instead. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ http://x.com/veteranmade.ck https://www.instagram.com/darilfannin/ https://www.instagram.com/kinomakesmovies/ https://x.com/kinomakesmovies | 1h 03m 03s | ||||||
| 7/28/25 | ![]() Make Jeans in America Again: Patriot Jean Co's Mission to Redefine Modern Apparel | In episode 156, I dive deep with Patrick Mate, founder of Patriot Jean Co., exploring what it truly means to be a veteran entrepreneur committed to leadership and building a small business rooted in American values. Patrick shares his journey from military service to civilian life, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of the military to civilian transition and how those skillsets translate to entrepreneurship. Our conversation tackles the realities of sustainability and conservation in the apparel industry, with Patrick outlining his unwavering commitment to a 100% clean American supply chain. We get into the nitty gritty of how U.S.-based manufacturing isn’t just a buzzword — it’s an ethical obligation that strengthens local communities and sets a new environmental standard for what it means to buy American. We don’t pull punches here: every American consumer and every producer has a direct stake in revitalizing our own supply chain. Supporting veteran-owned businesses like Patriot Jean Co. isn’t just patriotic — it’s a smart economic move that multiplies jobs and brings resilience to our communities. The environmental impact is real, and so are the ripple effects. American jobs mean stronger schools, first responders, and real estate sectors right here at home. Every purchase is a vote for American values. When we build a coalition between conscious consumers and passionate producers, we create a force for good that goes far beyond denim. Our choices matter — not just for our closets but for the future of American industry and the environment. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ http://x.com/veteranmade.ck https://www.instagram.com/patriotjeanco/ https://x.com/PatriotJeanCo | 53m 58s | ||||||
| 7/23/25 | ![]() From Tactical to Strategic: Leveraging Military Experience in the Civilian Workforce | In episode 155, I sit down with Rich Comitz, Chief Operating Officer at American Corporate Partners, to have a candid discussion about the realities of the transition from work in the military to work as a civilian. We explore how making the leap from military service to corporate business environments demands more than just a polished resume — it requires leadership, self-advocacy, and an unrelenting drive to seek mentorship. Rich breaks down how ACP’s year-long mentoring program arms veterans and military spouses with the tools, insights, and authentic relationships needed to translate unique military experiences directly for corporate hiring managers. We dive deep into why veterans must take full ownership of their transition by learning how to market themselves based on their real interests, strengths, and lived experience and not simply rely on a generic “military” brand or expecting someone else to decode their value. If you’re a veteran hungry for a meaningful business career, this episode is a no-nonsense call to action: it’s on you to get aggressively curious, seek mentorship outside your comfort zone, and do the heavy lifting to articulate what makes you a compelling asset in corporate America. I urge every transitioning service member to remember: the corporate world owes you nothing. It’s your responsibility to bridge the gap. By embracing honest, ongoing mentorship and relentlessly translating your leadership abilities, adaptability, and mission-driven mindset into clear, relevant stories for hiring managers, you will open doors and accelerate your journey beyond underemployment. Don’t wait for opportunity... engineer it through proactive relationship-building and authentic self-advocacy. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ http://x.com/veteranmade.ck https://www.instagram.com/acpvets/ https://x.com/acpvets | 54m 29s | ||||||
| 7/17/25 | ![]() From Collecting Intel to Brewing Coffee: How an Army Veteran Fosters Meaning Through Business | In episode 154, I sit down with Carl Churchill, co-founder of Alpha Coffee and an inspiring veteran entrepreneur, to unpack the realities of leadership, small business ownership, and the transition from the military to civilian life. We dive deep into Carl’s dynamic journey from serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army to building Alpha Coffee from scratch with his wife, leaning on their firsthand experiences and authentic passions. We don’t sugarcoat the pressures — this is a direct conversation on why it’s so important to build the kind of business that truly fits your vision, lifestyle, and values as a veteran transitioning into entrepreneurship. Carl’s story is proof that rejecting the urge to chase someone else’s definition of success is the ultimate power move for any small business owner or aspiring leader. We get specific about the craft of coffee as more than just a product. It’s about community, connection, and making a deeper impact. Carl breaks down how Alpha Coffee’s entire philosophy revolves around quality beans, intentional roasting, giving back, and fostering meaningful relationships — within the business, among employees, and out in the local community. We dig into how coffee, at its best, becomes a conduit for bringing people together, sparking conversations, and reminding us what real camaraderie looks like after the military. If you’re a veteran considering entrepreneurship, or someone determined to make your leadership count in small business, this episode is your unapologetic blueprint for building authentically and serving boldly. Episode Sponsors: VM Merch Go Pills -- use "VM15" at checkout for 15% off your order. BUBS Naturals -- use "veteranmade" at checkout for 20% off your order. True Made Foods -- use "VET" at checkout for 15% off your order. Ruck Sox -- use "VETERANMADE15" at checkout for 15% off your order. Bravo Actual -- use "Veteran Made" at checkout for 15% off your order. Intro Song composed and produced by Cleod9. SOCIALS: https://www.instagram.com/veteranmade.ck/ http://x.com/veteranmade.ck https://www.instagram.com/alpha.coffee/ https://x.com/thealphacoffee | 55m 12s | ||||||
Showing 25 of 178
Sponsor Intelligence
Sign in to see which brands sponsor this podcast, their ad offers, and promo codes.
Chart Positions
5 placements across 5 markets.
Chart Positions
5 placements across 5 markets.

























