In this episode, Donna welcomes Jason Kulchar, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and current Director of Learning, Development, Culture, and Belonging at ISS North America, for an engaging conversation about leadership grounded in service, humility, and authenticity. Jason reflects on his evolution from an enlisted Airman to senior leader, sharing how curiosity, connection, and a people-first mindset shaped his approach both in uniform and beyond. Listeners will hear practical insights on leading diverse teams, learning from failure, and why Jason lives by a simple but powerful philosophy: keep being awesome.

Learn More About Jason

Connect with Jason Kulchar on LinkedIn (K-U-L-C-H-A-R) and follow along for updates on his book, scheduled for release on February 5, 2026.

For questions or feedback, reach out at cominghomewell@gmail.com.

New episodes drop every other Wednesday, featuring conversations and resources designed to support the transition from frontline service to life at home.

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Donna Hoffmeyer chats with Tony Aubrey, co-founder of Operation Vet Now (OVN), and ambassador athlete Craig Rundell. They discuss the challenges veterans face after service, gaps in traditional support, and how OVN uses sports, music, and community to foster connection, purpose, and resilience.

Key Topics

• Tony’s journey from Air Force service to founding OVN
• Addressing veteran suicide and the need for outreach
• OVN’s programs connecting veterans through sports and music
• The ambassador athlete program and peer support
• Craig’s personal transition story and giving back
• Collaboration between nonprofits and grassroots impact

Resources

• Operation Vet Now: opvetnow.org
• Social Media: Search “Operation Vet Now” on Instagram & Facebook
• YouTube: OVN channel for videos and stories

Call to Action

Veterans or first responders seeking support—or anyone wanting to get involved—can reach out to OVN or connect with ambassadors. Help and community are available.

Connect with Beyond the Frontline

• Email: cominghomewell@gmail.com
• Website: cominghomewell.com

Donna sits down with Dr. Sheila McHenry, President and Clinical Director of Smithson Valley Counseling, to unpack the science and healing potential behind EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and other non-talk therapy approaches for trauma recovery.

Drawing from her background as a military nurse and mental health advocate, Donna explores with Dr. McHenry how EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories, why it’s often more effective for veterans and first responders, and how trauma-informed care can support long-term resilience and healing.

Together, they shed light on the body’s remarkable ability to heal — and how the right therapeutic approach can help individuals move beyond survival and into recovery.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• 🌐 Smithson Valley Counseling
• 🌐 EMDR International Association
• 📘 The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

Call to Action

If you or someone you love is struggling with trauma, know that help is available — and healing is possible. Explore the resources above, ask questions, and find a therapeutic approach that feels right for you.

For more information on EMDR or to find a qualified therapist near you, visit emdria.org.