🎙️ Hidden Battles Radio Live – Featuring Army Veteran John Lombardo (VFR Ministries)

This episode of Hidden Battles Radio Live welcomes Army Veteran John Lombardo, founder of VFR Ministries, for an honest and powerful conversation about service, faith, resilience, and life after the uniform.

John shares his journey from military service to ministry, discussing the challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life and how purpose, connection, and community can play a critical role in healing the hidden battles so many carry. Together, we dive into how VFR Ministries supports veterans through outreach, fellowship, and faith-based programs that restore hope and belonging.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans, first responders, families, and anyone passionate about supporting those who have served.

🎙️ Hidden Battles Radio Live – Featuring Army Veteran John Lombardo (VFR Ministries)

This episode of Hidden Battles Radio Live welcomes Army Veteran John Lombardo, founder of VFR Ministries, for an honest and powerful conversation about service, faith, resilience, and life after the uniform.

John shares his journey from military service to ministry, discussing the challenges many veterans face when transitioning to civilian life and how purpose, connection, and community can play a critical role in healing the hidden battles so many carry. Together, we dive into how VFR Ministries supports veterans through outreach, fellowship, and faith-based programs that restore hope and belonging.

This episode is a must-listen for veterans, first responders, families, and anyone passionate about supporting those who have served.

In this powerful episode, host Chris and Scott talk with James LaMonte, founder of the K9 PTSD Research Center in Massachusetts, to explore the hidden emotional wounds carried by our nation’s working dogs. From police and military K9s to service animals who’ve seen the worst of humanity, James shares how his nonprofit helps these four-legged heroes heal from trauma — and why it’s time to recognize canine PTSD as a serious issue.

You’ll hear the heartfelt story behind the award-winning documentary Healing Dakota, the creation of the Massachusetts K9 Heroes specialty license plate, and new efforts like Dakota’s Law, which seeks to provide lifelong care for retired working dogs.

Join us for an honest, hopeful conversation about loyalty, recovery, and what it really means to stand by those who once stood guard for us.

Topics include: 🐾 The emotional cost of service for working dogs 🎥 The making and impact of Healing Dakota 🚓 How Massachusetts’ new K9 Heroes license plate honors canine officers ❤️ Rehabilitation, advocacy, and what’s next for K9 PTSD awareness

Hidden Battles Radio Live welcomes special guest Pat Hubbell, co-founder of Candorful.org, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans and military spouses prepare for job interviews and successfully transition into civilian careers. Hosts Scott and Chris dive into Pat’s inspiring mission, the challenges veterans face post-service, and how Candorful is making a difference—one interview at a time. Tune in for real talk, powerful insights, and a deep look at how support and preparation can change lives.

Candorful.org

On this powerful episode of Hidden Battles Radio, Scott and Dr. Kim welcomed a special call-in guest: Jeff Ladieu, Executive Director of Camp Resilience. A retired Army Ranger and former SWAT Captain, Jeff is now a dedicated mental health advocate on a mission to combat soldier suicide. He joined the show while in the midst of an incredible feat—running 222 miles across New Hampshire to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention among veterans and first responders. Jeff shared his deeply personal motivation behind the run, the mental and physical challenges it brings, and the importance of breaking the stigma around asking for help. His passion, grit, and unwavering commitment to saving lives left a lasting impact on listeners and served as a powerful reminder that no one fights alone.

On this episode of Hidden Battles Radio, Dr. Laura Landerman-Garber, founder of the Holiday Cards 4 Our Military Challenge, joined Scott and Dr. Kim live in the studio. She shared the powerful story behind her nationwide initiative, which encourages people to send heartfelt holiday cards to deployed service members. Dr. Landerman-Garber spoke passionately about the often-overlooked mental health impact of these cards—how a simple, handwritten message from a stranger can bring comfort, connection, and a sense of home to those serving far from loved ones. She also emphasized the therapeutic value for those who write the cards, fostering empathy, gratitude, and community involvement. It was a moving conversation that highlighted how small acts of kindness can have a profound ripple effect on the well-being of our military heroes.

Hidden Battles Radio Live – Featuring David Sabo: Fitness, Service, and Supporting Our First Responders

On this episode of Hidden Battles Radio Live, Scott is joined in the studio by David Sabo of the a Lakes Region Fire Department, along with representatives from RTNH and the Lakes Region CISM teams, for a powerful and informative discussion focused on the physical and mental wellness of first responders.

David, a combat veteran with 10 years of service as a TACP/JTAC operator in Air Force Special Warfare, shares his unique perspective on the importance of resilience and readiness. While still in uniform, he volunteered as a firefighter in his hometown — a passion that continues today as he serves full-time as a firefighter and AEMT.

The group dives into their initiative to bring customized fitness programming directly to fire and police departments at no cost, helping first responders stay strong and mission-ready. For those seeking a more individualized approach, one-on-one fitness coaching is also available.

In addition to physical fitness, the conversation turns to the critical importance of regular mental health check-ups — breaking the stigma and encouraging first responders to treat mental wellness with the same urgency as physical health.

https://responderstogethernh.org/

First Responder Therapy Dogs on Hidden Battles Radio Live

Crystal and Tracy from First Responder Therapy Dogs joined Scott live in the studio on Hidden Battles Radio for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about the powerful impact therapy dogs have on our everyday heroes. During the segment, they shared stories of how these specially trained dogs bring comfort, calm, and connection to first responders who face intense stress, trauma, and emotional strain in the line of duty.

From fire stations to police departments and dispatch centers, Crystal and Tracy highlighted how their therapy dogs help break down emotional barriers, providing a safe and judgment-free way for first responders to decompress and heal. They discussed the mission of First Responder Therapy Dogs, their growing reach across the country, and the importance of mental wellness within the first responder community.

It was a moving and insightful discussion, underscoring the healing power of the human-animal bond — and reminding us all that sometimes, the best therapy has four paws and a wagging tail.

firstrespondertherapydogs.org