Épisodes

  • Veteran's Military Journey: Army Medic To Navy Diver
    May 12 2026

    In this episode of Helping The Brave Podcast, Ed Parcaut talks with Scott English, a former Canadian Army medic and Navy diver who now leads Combat Fitness, a performance-focused training business for military, law enforcement, and tactical athletes.

    Scott shares his journey through service, his transition out, and how burnout, operational demands, and changing priorities pushed him toward entrepreneurship. He and Ed talk about the realities of military medicine, the difference between field and clinical environments, the mental toll of the COVID period on service members, and why veterans often make strong business owners after they leave the military.

    They also dive into training philosophy, injury prevention, tactical performance, and the need to stop breaking people in the name of "fitness." This is a conversation about discipline, systems, leadership, and building a new mission after service.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #ScottEnglish #CombatFitness #MilitaryTransition #VeteranEntrepreneur #VeteranFitness #TacticalFitness #LifeAfterService #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranCommunity #LawEnforcementFitness #TacticalAthlete #FormerMedic #VeteransHelpingVeterans

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    34 min
  • Veteran Community: Sharing Knowledge & Boosting Each Other With Rater HQ After Dark
    May 5 2026

    In this episode of Helping The Brave, Ed Parcaut sits down with RaterHQ: After Dark, a former VA rater and Army veteran, for an honest conversation about how the VA claims process really works.

    They discuss the rise of online information around veteran disability claims, the problem of misinformation, and why veterans need better guidance when it comes to DBQs, nexus letters, secondary conditions, and evidence. RaterHQ shares how her channel began as a way to educate VSRs, raters, and authorizers after hours, and why she continues to speak out about what veterans should know before filing or appealing a claim.

    This episode also explores her own service background, her transition from Army radiology tech to social work after military injury, and why she cares deeply about helping veterans avoid costly mistakes in the claims process.

    If you are trying to understand VA disability claims with less noise and more clarity, this episode is worth your time.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #RaterHQ #VADisabilityClaims #VAClaims #VeteranBenefits #DBQ #NexusLetter #VeteranSupport #FormerVARater #MilitaryTransition #VeteransHelpingVeterans #CAndPExam #SecondaryConditions #DisabilityClaims

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    1 h et 13 min
  • Lee Ettinger on Veteran Community Life And Finding Purpose Again
    Apr 28 2026

    In this episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with guests Chris Miles and Lee Ettinger for an engaging conversation about military service, transition to civilian life, and entrepreneurship.

    Chris Miles shares candid stories from his time in the Marine Corps, including challenging boot camp experiences and lessons learned from amphibious assault training. He and Ed Parcaut dive into the ways military culture has evolved over the years, the importance of community among veterans, and the struggles many face after leaving service—especially when it comes to navigating benefits, healthcare, and finding purpose.

    The episode also explores the lack of support systems for veterans returning to civilian life, and both Ed Parcaut and Chris Miles reflect on the tools and connections needed for a smoother transition. In a hopeful turn, Chris Miles discusses building a new life abroad, learning Japanese, and eventually becoming a successful entrepreneur. He introduces his company, Power Plus, and explains how his experiences shaped the creation of an innovative energizing pain relief product.

    Listeners will take away valuable insights on:

    • Overcoming adversity during and after military service

    • The crucial need for veteran support networks and resources

    • The process of building a business after service, leveraging discipline and resilience

    • Current tools, like Ed Parcaut's efforts to ease the VA disability claim process, and the entrepreneurial journey behind Chris Miles 's energy shot

    Whether you're a veteran, family member, or someone inspired by stories of perseverance, this episode offers honest perspectives, practical advice, and a sense of community for those "helping the brave."

    Visit www.drinkpowerplus.com for more about Chris Miles 's business, and tune in for more veteran stories on "Helping the Brave.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #VeteranBenefits #VAclaims #Entrepreneurship #VeteranBusiness #PTSD #MilitaryService #SupportOurTroops #MarineCorps #Navy #Army #VeteranOwned #Podcast #EdParcaut #ChrisMiles #LeeEttinger

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    1 h et 11 min
  • Transitioning from Soldier to Storyteller: Dean Davidson's Path to Hope
    Apr 21 2026

    Join Ed Parcaut as he welcomes Dean Davidson for a candid conversation about military service, PTSD, and the journey of healing. Dean shares his story of serving in the U.S. Army, the challenges of lost records and transitioning to civilian life, and how writing and acting became a creative outlet. Delving into his upcoming novel "The Emir: The Tora Bora Vendetta," Dean discusses the power of storytelling for veterans, messages of hope and redemption, and the importance of reaching out for support. If you're seeking inspiration, honest perspectives, and insight into the veteran experience, this episode delivers.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #Veterans #MilitaryService #PTSDAwareness #Army #Navy #AuthorLife #VeteranStories #MentalHealth #TransitionStories #TheAmir #TorahBoraVendetta #Podcast #EdParcaut #DeanDavidson #Hope #NeverGiveUp #Resilience #FirstResponders #WritingCommunity #Acting #MilitaryFamily #Redemption #Inspiration #SupportVeterans

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    40 min
  • Hard Hat Philosophy: Empowering Veterans & Middle America with Randy Bridge
    Apr 14 2026

    Welcome to Helping the Brave with host Ed Parcaut, the show dedicated to supporting veterans as they navigate life after service. In this episode, Ed sits down with Randy Bridge, Army veteran and author of Hard Hat Philosophy. Together, they discuss the challenges veterans face in accessing VA benefits, overcoming the stigma around seeking help for PTSD and service-connected injuries, and practical advice for maximizing your benefits and securing your family's future.

    Randy shares his personal journey from military service to a decades-long career in the railroad industry, overcoming periods of hardship, loss of purpose, and rediscovering meaning through helping others. The conversation also explores his creation of Gray Eagle Media—media and resources designed for middle managers and blue-collar workers who often feel overlooked.

    Dive in for candid stories, actionable tips for veterans and their families, and inspiration on finding support, building resilience, and thriving in post-military life. Plus, get a special limited-time offer for a free copy of Randy's book for Helping the Brave listeners.

    New episodes every week. Stay connected, get informed, and remember—you've earned your benefits.

    Learn more and access the special offer at grayeaglemedia.com/helpingthebrave.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #Veterans #VeteranBenefits #PTSD #VAClaims #MilitaryTransition #EdParcaut #RandyBridge #GrayEagleMedia #HardHatPhilosophy #BlueCollar #VeteranSupport #MentalHealth #ArmyVeteran #MilitaryLife

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    46 min
  • Justice for Holt: A Veteran's Fight Against Small Town Corruption
    Apr 7 2026

    In this compelling episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut welcomes Eric Holt, a U.S. Army veteran and former fire chief, whose career journey took an unexpected turn after standing up for election integrity. Eric Holt shares his story, from serving as a firefighter in the Army to uncovering troubling violations during a local fire district election in Colorado. His decision to do the right thing set off a chain of personal and professional consequences—including retaliation, job loss, and a long legal battle.

    Listeners will hear Eric Holt candidly describe the challenges of rebuilding a fractured fire department, raising emergency response standards, and the moment everything unraveled following the disputed election. He opens up about the price of integrity, the importance of veterans continuing to lead with values, and why he's become an advocate for whistleblowers and public servants everywhere.

    This episode is a testament to courageous leadership in the face of adversity. Eric Holt offers insights into community service, family resilience, and fighting for what's right no matter the cost. Whether you're a veteran, public servant, or simply believe in doing the right thing, this conversation will inspire and empower you.

    Follow and support Justice for Holt on Facebook to continue the conversation about integrity and reform among our nation's public servants.

    New episodes of Helping the Brave showcase extraordinary journeys from those who serve their communities and their country. Subscribe to hear more stories of real courage every week.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:*
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EricHolt #Veterans #Whistleblower #ElectionIntegrity #ArmyVeteran #FireChief #Courage #Leadership #MoralCourage #Inspiration #Podcast #StandUp #JusticeForHolt #VeteranStories #DoingTheRightThing #Resilience #EdParcaut #LifeAfterService #NeverQuit

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    44 min
  • Restoring the Broken: Understanding Moral Injury with Larry Brant
    Mar 31 2026

    In this compelling episode of Helping the Brave, Ed Parcaut sits down with Navy Chaplain Larry Brant to unpack the critical, often misunderstood topic of moral injury. Larry candidly shares his path from worship pastor to 16 years serving as a chaplain for the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Together, they explore the challenges veterans face with PTSD, moral injury, and the VA claims process, as well as Larry's upcoming book, "Restoring the Broken." If you want an honest, empathetic look at the spiritual and emotional wounds of military service—and practical advice on seeking help and healing—this episode is for you.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:**
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcaut #LarryBrant #MoralInjury #PTSD #Veterans #MilitaryChaplain #RestoringTheBroken #VAClaims #SpiritualHealing #VeteranSupport #Podcast #MentalHealth #MilitaryService #VeteranStories

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    48 min
  • Beyond The Battlefield: Overcoming Transition Challenges And Giving Back
    Mar 24 2026

    In this candid episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed welcomes guest Alec Altamirano for an in-depth conversation about military service, veteran benefits, and life after the uniform. Alec shares his journey from joining the Marine Corps in 2005, serving as a machine gunner in Iraq, and navigating the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, including the pursuit of education and his current role as a battalion chief with CAL FIRE.

    Together, they dive into the complexities of navigating VA benefits—unpacking everything from disability ratings, GI Bill usage, and Vocational Rehab, to the importance of documentation and advocacy for oneself and one's family. The discussion is filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and insights for veterans considering careers in firefighting or seeking support during their transition.

    Whether you're a veteran, a first responder, or simply interested in the real stories behind service and resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons on leveraging resources, finding new purpose, and staying connected. Plus, learn why community—both online and offline—is essential for veterans as they move forward.

    *Contact Ed Parcaut:*
    - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com)
    - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

    For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com.

    #EdParcautPodcast #HelpingTheBrave #AlecAltamirano #VeteransBenefits #GIBill #CALFIRE #VeteranStories #MilitaryTransition #PTSDAwareness #VAClaims #Modesto #FirefighterCareer #MilitaryToCivilian #ServiceConnected #DisabilityRights #MentalHealthMatters #FirstResponders #VSO #VocRehab #Chapter31 #VeteranSupport #CommunityCare #JiuJitsuCommunity #LinkedInNetworking #CaliforniaVeterans

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    1 h et 24 min