Best Va Workforce Reduction Podcasts (2025)

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The FED Weekly 28 Sep - 4 Oct 2025 (Episode 18) 17:36

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6d ago17:36

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This episode of The FED Weekly covers significant developments for federal employees and retirees from September 28 to October 4, 2025. A government shutdown defined the week after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill, with health care subsidies at the center of the dispute. The episode also details the massive culmination of the Trump administ…

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The FED Weekly 21-27 Sep 2025 (Episode 17) 16:03

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In this episode of The FED Weekly, we recap critical issues for federal employees and retirees during the week of September 21-27, 2025. The primary focus is the escalating government shutdown crisis, which has been heightened by the Senate's rejection of a House funding bill and the cancellation of key votes, raising fears of furloughs and disrupt…

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The FED Weekly 14-20 Sep 2025 (Episode 16) 14:58

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This week’s episode of The FED Weekly covers the escalating threat of a government shutdown as Congress remains deadlocked over funding bills ahead of the September 30 deadline. Lawrence explains how competing short-term funding proposals are fueling uncertainty for federal workers and retirees. President Trump’s 2026 alternative pay plan—offering …

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The FED Weekly 7-13 Sep 2025 (Episode 15) 17:40

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This week on The FED Weekly (7-13 Sep 2025), we cover major updates affecting federal employees and retirees. Congress introduced the Claiming Age Clarity Act to simplify Social Security claiming age terms, aiming to help retirees make more intelligent decisions about when to start benefits. Another bill, the Keep Billionaires out of Social Securit…

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The FED Weekly 31 Aug - 6 Sep 2025 (Episode 14) 18:40

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This week, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program announced a historic 13.5% premium hike for 2025—significantly outpacing proposed federal pay raises and eroding purchasing power for employees and retirees. Expanded IVF and anti-obesity drug coverage are driving up costs. In retirement news, the Thrift Savings Plan topped $1 trillion…

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The FED Weekly 24-30 Aug 2025 (Episode 13) 15:07

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In this week’s episode of The FED Weekly, Lawrence covers urgent updates for federal employees and retirees. The 2025 Federal Employees Health Benefits Program premiums are set to rise by a historic 13.5%, the most significant increase in almost 20 years, while dental and vision plan hikes are more moderate. With government funding still stalled in…

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The FED Weekly 17-23 Aug 2025 (Episode 12) 17:47

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This episode of The FED Weekly covers crucial updates for federal employees and retirees for August 17-23, 2025. Host Lawrence outlines the impending 2026 pay freeze, significant increases in FEHB health insurance premiums, and the removal of gender-affirming care coverage from all federal health plans starting in 2026. The “One Big Beautiful Bill”…

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The FED Weekly 10-16 Aug 2025 (Episode 11) 25:07

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With Congress adjourning for the August recess, a government shutdown looms as key budget bills remain unresolved. Divided proposals over federal spending heighten uncertainty, threatening paychecks and agency services. Major union battles escalate, including terminations of collective bargaining agreements at the VA and EPA, while unions mobilize …

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The FED Weekly 3-9 Aug 2025, Episode 10 27:06

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This episode of The FED Weekly covers major updates affecting federal employees and retirees for August 3-9, 2025. Key topics include OPM’s directive to remove COVID-19 vaccine records from personnel files, new legislation to protect employee access to personnel files, and revised rules for probationary periods that make it easier to terminate new …

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The FED Weekly 27 Jul - 2 Aug 2025 (Episode 9) 14:19

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This episode of The FED Weekly covers key policy updates impacting federal employees and retirees for the week of July 27 to August 2, 2025. Major tax changes from the Big Beautiful Bill Act, including adjustments to federal tax rates, deductions for seniors, and new credits for overtime and family leave. The episode examines President Trump’s Exec…

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The FED Weekly 20-26 Jul 2025 (Episode 8) 18:20

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This is your essential briefing for the week of 20-26 July 2025. It has been a watershed week for the federal civil service. A landmark Supreme Court decision has fully unleashed the administration's workforce reduction plans, and a stunning court filing has revealed exactly which offices are in the crosshairs. Meanwhile, the massive "One Big Beaut…

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The FED Weekly 13-19 Jul 2025 (Episode 7) 20:13

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This week, the foundations of the federal civil service experienced seismic shocks. A landmark Supreme Court decision effectively dismantled long-standing job protections, unleashing a wave of workforce reduction actions across multiple agencies. Simultaneously, the administration advanced a legal theory of "at-will" employment and created new hiri…

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The FED Weekly 6-12 July 2025 (Episode 6) 20:56

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The second week of July 2025 brought seismic shifts to the U.S. federal workforce, marked by a coordinated effort to reshape the civil service. A landmark Supreme Court ruling on July 8 cleared the way for the administration to proceed with mass layoffs, known as Reductions-in-Force (RIFs), across the government. President Trump signed the "One Big…

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The FED Weekly 29 Jun - 5 Jul 2025 (Episode 5) 14:30

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During the week of June 29 to July 5, 2025, major federal legislative developments preserved key benefits for current and retired federal employees. The Senate version of H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” removed all proposed cuts to pensions and health benefits previously included in the House version, including elimination of the FERS supplem…

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The FED Weekly 22-28 June (Episode 4) 15:03

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Welcome to the FED Weekly, the go-to podcast for current and retired U.S. federal employees who need to stay informed on the issues that matter most. In a rapidly changing political landscape, we deliver concise, weekly updates on the legislative, executive, and agency-level actions that have a direct impact on your professional life and financial …

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The FED Weekly 15-21 June 2025 (Episode 3) 16:04

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The FED Weekly: June 15–21, 2025 report highlights significant developments impacting federal employees and retirees. A major focus is the Senate’s draft of a budget reconciliation bill that preserves controversial measures requiring new federal employees to either pay a higher retirement contribution or forfeit civil service protections. While som…

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The FED Weekly 8-14 June 2025 (Episode 2) 23:44

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Welcome to the Federal Workforce Roundup, the go-to podcast for current and retired U.S. federal employees who need to stay informed on the issues that matter most. In a rapidly changing political landscape, we deliver concise, weekly updates on the legislative, executive, and agency-level actions that have a direct impact on your professional life…

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The FED Weekly 1-7 June 2025 (Episode 1) 21:02

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The first week of June 2025 brought several important developments for the federal community. Below is a roundup of key news affecting U.S. federal employees and retirees, organized by category for clarity.By Dave Faulk

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Ep. 800 - VFW Leadership and Vision: National and State Updates with Carol Whitmore and Eugene Blackwell 28:24

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Join America's Heroes Group as we welcome two distinguished guests — Carol Whitmore, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief of the National VFW, and Eugene Blackwell, Senior Vice Commander of the Illinois VFW. Both are U.S. Army Veterans with decades of service and a passion for advocating for veterans. In this discussion, they share updates on the nationa…

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Ep. 801 - ADAPHP, LLC: Tackling Public Health Challenges with Col. Dr. Damon Arnold 28:44

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Join Col. Dr. Damon Arnold, retired U.S. Army Combat Medic and CEO of the African Diaspora Association of Public Health Professionals (ADAPHP), LLC, as he addresses the pressing public health concerns impacting communities across the United States. From chronic disease management and mental health support to the rising cost of healthcare and vaccin…

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Ep. 803 - Adelena Marshall and Carolina Stewart Discuss the Impact of VA Workforce Reductions on Veteran Care 28:04

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In this episode of America's Heroes Group Roundtable, Col. Dr. Damon Arnold speaks with Adelena Marshall, Mental Health RN, and Carolina Stewart, RN MSN Licensed Clinical Nurse Leader in Community Care, about the growing concerns surrounding workforce reductions at the VA. They discuss the challenges nurses face in providing safe and efficient care…

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Ep. 804 - Empowering Veterans and Communities through Clean Energy: The 2025 Clean Energy Infrastructure Plan 30:06

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Join Jerry Wellman of Overwatch Capital as he discusses the opportunities in clean energy infrastructure for veterans and communities with Rob Howard and Rod Matthews. Discover how renewable energy projects like biomass, solar, wind, and community choice aggregation can provide economic development, job training, and sustainable futures for local c…

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Ep. 802 - Julie Appleby on Obamacare “Fixers” and the Impact of Trump's Health Workforce Reductions 30:19

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Join Col. Dr. Damon Arnold, host of America's Heroes Group, as he speaks with Julie Appleby, Senior Correspondent for KFF Health News. In this episode, they explore the implications of Julie’s recent article, "The Ranks of Obamacare 'Fixers' Axed in Trump's Reduction of Health Agency Workforce," published on April 22, 2025. Discover how critical ca…

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Ep. 799 - When Hospitals Leave Medicare Advantage Plans: What It Means for Thousands of Members 29:26

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Join Dr. Damon Arnold, retired U.S. Army combat medic and host of America's Heroes Group, as he speaks with Susan Jaffe, a contributing writer for KFF Health News and the DC Correspondent for The Lancet. In this compelling discussion, they delve into Jaffe's recent article, "When Hospitals Ditch Medicare Advantage Plans, Thousands of Members Get to…

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Ep. 793 - From Homeless to Hope: Yvette Jones Swanson’s Mission to House 5,000+ Veterans 28:48

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In this heartfelt episode of America's Heroes Group, we sit down with Yvette Jones Swanson, a U.S. Army Veteran, realtor, national advocate, and founder of Vet Mentors LLC. With over 22 years of relentless service, Yvette shares her powerful journey from being a homeless female veteran to becoming a trailblazing force who has housed over 5,000 vete…

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Ep 798 - Financial Survival Tips for 2025 | Lisa Gavin | America's Heroes Group 31:13

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Financial fallout in 2025? Stock market dips, high inflation, rising interest rates, job insecurity—how do you protect your finances in times like these? Lisa Gavin, President of Next Level Coaching & Funding, shares powerful money mastery tips to help you build a financial strategy, grow your credit, reduce debt, and prepare for economic uncertain…

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Ep. 794 - Housing Veterans & Securing Government Contracts | Yvette Jones Swanson & Derrick Green 17:13

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How do you house thousands of homeless veterans and win government contracts to scale the mission? In this powerful episode of America’s Heroes Group, U.S. Army Veterans Yvette Jones Swanson, Founder of Vet Mentors LLC, and Derrick Green, Government Contracts Expert and SBA/VA-certified business owner, break it all down. How to build ethical, effec…

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Ep. 795 - Empowering Youth Through STEM, STREAM & Housing Programs | Ryan Harris & E. Rene’ Soulé 30:55

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How do you spark purpose, build community, and break generational barriers? In this powerful episode of America's Heroes Group, U.S. Army Reserve Veteran Ryan Harris (Executive Director, Tomorrow Starts Today) and E. Rene' Soulé (Program Director, Mixon-Clayton Bridge Builders Memorial Foundation) share how they are transforming lives through STEM,…

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Ep. 796 - Veteran Attorney Ernesto Borges | Bankruptcy, Benefits & Legal Help for Veterans | Bill Busters Law 16:11

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U.S. Army Vietnam Combat Veteran. Bronze Star. Purple Heart. 40+ Years as an Attorney. In this insightful episode of America’s Heroes Group, Attorney Ernesto Borges—Vietnam War combat veteran and managing partner of Bill Busters Bankruptcy Law Firm—shares both his military and legal journeys. From the battlefield to the courtroom, Atty. Borges brea…

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Ep. 797 - Let's Get Healthy with Plant-Based Nutrition | C. Sadeek Colquitt | America's Heroes Group 27:35

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High blood pressure. Heart disease. Alzheimer’s. Dementia. What if the root of these chronic diseases isn’t genetics—but what’s on your plate? Join C. Sadeek Colquitt, U.S. health advocate and Executive Director of the Plant-Based Afrikan Center for Nutrition, as he breaks down the truth behind nutrition, disease, and healing through food in this p…

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Ep. 788 - Can the Courts Stop Executive Orders Military Policy & the Constitution 26:19

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Partner: Stephanie Kalota – U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class (Veteran), Founder of The Political Veteran Podcast & AHG Correspondent. In this special edition of America’s Heroes Corp Roundtable, host Dr. Damon Arnold, U.S. Army National Guard (Ret.), sits down with veteran and political correspondent Stephanie Kalota to discuss the judicial s…

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Ep. 792 - Clean Energy Careers for Veterans: 2025 Infrastructure & Jobs Outlook | Rob Howard + J.R. Wellman 31:27

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In this veteran-led conversation, Rob Howard and J.R. Wellman break down how America’s shifting energy infrastructure is opening doors for veterans across rural and urban communities. Whether you’re transitioning out of the military or seeking to pivot into a booming industry, this episode delivers actionable insight on how to plug into the 2025 cl…

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Ep. 789 - Why the VFW Matters: Supporting Veterans, Community, and the Future 29:33

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In this inspiring and timely episode of America’s Heroes Corp Roundtable, host Dr. Damon Arnold welcomes Commander Aretha Spurlock, the first African-American woman to lead VFW Post 311 in Richton Park, IL. Together, they discuss the vital role of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in providing services, community support, education, benefits navig…

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Ep. 791 - April 15 Tax Deadline: What Veterans & Small Biz Owners Need to Know | David Milanec on AHC 26:54

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The April 15 tax filing deadline is around the corner—and if you’re a veteran, small business owner, or everyday taxpayer, you can’t afford to miss this episode. CPA and financial strategist David Milanec joins America’s Heroes Corp Roundtable to break down everything you need to know, from last-minute filing tips to veteran-specific tax breaks and…

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Ep. 790 - Does This Bill Really Protect Medicaid? The Truth Behind the Budget Cuts 29:48

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Does a new bill actually protect Medicaid—or is it smoke and mirrors? In this powerful episode of America's Heroes Corp Roundtable, Dr. Damon Arnold interviews KFF Health News senior correspondent Julie Appleby about her fact-checked exposé on a House budget resolution that claims to safeguard Medicaid... but doesn’t. Together, they break down what…

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Ep. 785 - From Homeless Veteran to Homeowner: How VA Loans Can Change Lives 27:32

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Description: Join us for an insightful discussion on America's Heroes Show with Yvette Jones Swanson, U.S. Army Veteran and Founder of Vet Mentors LLC, as she is joined by Riccardo Wardlow, Branch Manager at Loan Depot. In this episode, we explore the journey from homelessness to homeownership for veterans using VA Loans. Many veterans qualify for …

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Ep. 786 - How Family Caregivers Can Get Paid: Essential Programs & Resources 28:41

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Join us on America’s Heroes Show with Stephanie Kalota, U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Veteran and Founder of The Political Veteran Podcast, alongside Keisha L. Jackson, U.S. Air Force Veteran and Family Caregiver Advocate. In this episode, we discuss programs that pay family caregivers and the essential resources available to support those…

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Ep. 787 - Newly Introduced Veteran Legislation and what You Need to Know! 30:02

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oin Stephanie Kalota, U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Veteran and Founder of The Political Veteran Podcast, as she breaks down newly introduced legislation that impacts veterans, caregivers, military personnel, and their families. 📜 Key Topics in This Episode: ✅ Senate Bill 124 – Restore VA Accountability Act ✅ House Bill 71 – Veterans Healt…

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Ep. 784 - 2025 Tax Filing Tips for Individuals & Businesses | CPA David Milanec 25:31

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💰 2025 Tax Season Has Begun! Are You Ready? In this expert discussion, David Milanec, CPA, President & Founder of Katz Milanec CPA Tax Firm, shares must-know tax tips for individuals and business owners to successfully file their 2024 taxes.By Cliff Kelley

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Ep. 782 - Financial Literacy & VA Home Loans for Veterans | Mike Gulyas & Dr. Damon Arnold 27:30

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💰 How Veterans Can Achieve Homeownership & Financial Stability Join us for an important discussion with Mike Gulyas, Senior Vice President of The Federal Savings Bank—one of the largest veteran-owned banks in the U.S.. We’ll explore financial literacy, VA home loans, and how veterans can achieve financial stability through homeownership.…

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Ep. 783 - Rural Health Crisis & Medicaid Expansion | KFF Health News’ Lauren Sausser 29:51

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The Future of Rural Health Care & Medicaid Expansion in the U.S. In this special episode, we sit down with Lauren Sausser, South Carolina Correspondent for KFF Health News, to discuss her powerful investigative report: 📢 "Across the South, Rural Health Care Has Become Trendy. Medicaid Expansion Has Not."…

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Ep. 779 - Barriers to Life-Saving HIV Drugs in Georgia | Roundtable w/ Rebecca Grapevine & Dr. Damon Arnold 29:29

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The Fight for HIV Prevention & Treatment in Georgia. Join us for an insightful roundtable discussion with Rebecca Grapevine, a public health journalist at KFF Health News, as we dive deep into her latest article: Biden Rule Cleared Hurdles to Life-Saving HIV Drugs, but in Georgia Barriers Remain.By Cliff Kelley

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Ep. 781 - The 15 White Coats: Paving the Way for Future Doctors | Lisa Batiste & Dr. Damon Arnold 28:53

8M ago28:53

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Inspiring the Next Generation of Diverse Medical Professionals. Join us for an important conversation with Lisa Batiste, U.S. Air Force Veteran and Executive Director of The 15 White Coats, an organization committed to breaking barriers and increasing representation in medicine and beyond. The 15 White Coats is on a mission to reinforce positive im…

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Ep. 780 - The Agile Woman: Thriving in AI & Scrum Without a Tech Background | Wanda Petty & Dr. Damon Arnold 28:38

8M ago28:38

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Can You Thrive in AI & Scrum Without a Tech Background? YES!. Join us for an empowering conversation with Wanda Petty, U.S. Army SFC Veteran and Creative Consultant, Strategist, and Producer of She VET Inspires. She shares how women from all backgrounds—especially veterans—can break into AI and Scrum Master roles without prior tech experience.…

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Ep. 776 - Gender-Affirming Care Under Threat: Julie Appleby on Trump's Executive Order and Trans Rights 28:38

8M ago28:38

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Join Col. Dr. Damon Arnold (US Army National Guard, Retired) and Julie Appleby, Senior Correspondent at KFF Health News, for a crucial discussion on the implications of President Trump's executive order restricting gender-affirming care. They explore how this order affects trans youth, healthcare providers, insurers, and federal programs like Medic…

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Ep. 775 - Honoring Fallen Heroes: Reflecting on the Potomac Tragedy and Veterans’ Sacrifices 18:27

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In this heartfelt episode of America's Heroes Group Digital Media Show, host Col. Dr. Damon Arnold (US Army National Guard, Retired) reflects on the recent tragic collision between an American Airlines jet and a military Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, DC. He pays tribute to the fallen servicemembers and crew, discusses the inherent risks of…

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Ep. 778 - Clean Energy Growth & Veterans' Role in Driving a Greener Future with Rob Howard 30:47

8M ago30:47

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Join Rob Howard, U.S. Navy Veteran and President/CEO of Zodiac Solutions, LLC, as he discusses the expanding opportunities in clean energy and how veterans can be at the forefront of this industry. From solar and battery storage to hydrogen fuel cell innovation, Howard explains how clean energy is reshaping infrastructure and offers practical advic…

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Ep. 777 - U.S. Exit from the WHO: Amy Maxmen on Global Health Risks and Strategic Implications 29:06

8M ago29:06

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Col. Dr. Damon Arnold (US Army National Guard, Retired) is joined by Amy Maxmen, KFF Health News Public Health Local Editor and Correspondent, to discuss her compelling article on the implications of the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). They explore the impact on global health, potential power shifts, vaccine accessibility,…

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Ep. 774 - Veterans Roundtable: DAV 2025 Agenda, VA Updates & Navigating Changes for Veterans 30:34

8M ago30:34

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Join host Col. Dr. Damon Arnold (US Army National Guard, Retired) and special guest Steven Bramer, a U.S. Army Iraq Purple Heart Recipient and Chapter Service Officer of DAV Chapter 17 in Hammond, Indiana, for an in-depth discussion. Together, they explore the DAV’s 2025 agenda, new VA developments, changes under President Trump’s administration, a…

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Ep. 773 - Supporting Veterans and Families: A Discussion with Detrall Dearbone 29:37

8M ago29:37

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In this episode of America's Heroes Group, host Dr. Damon Arnold speaks with Detrall Dearbone, US Army veteran and founder of Dearbone Counseling Center. They discuss mental health challenges faced by veterans and their families, the importance of community support, and how programs like Military OneSource and VA Community Care Network are making a…