Tag Archive for: Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

Celebrating 850 Shows: A Milestone Edition of Minnesota Military Radio

Celebrating 850 Shows: A Milestone Edition of Minnesota Military Radio

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we mark a significant milestone as the program airs its 850th show. For more than 15 years, Minnesota Military Radio has served as a dedicated platform sharing the stories of Minnesota’s service members, Veterans, families, and the organizations that support them.

Guests:

This special milestone edition takes a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the program’s beginnings in 2010 and the partnerships that have sustained it. Listeners will hear shout-outs from key leaders and partners, including the Minnesota National Guard, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, and iHeartMedia. Producers from each partner organization join the conversation to discuss their roles, memorable moments, and the ongoing work of informing and connecting Minnesota’s military community.

From early support that helped launch the show to the growth that now reaches dozens of stations across the state and a national audience, this episode highlights the collaborative effort behind every broadcast. It also looks ahead, celebrating the mission that continues to honor Veterans, support current service members, and share important resources with listeners.

Through consistent storytelling, community partnerships, and a commitment to those who serve, Minnesota Military Radio has become a trusted voice for Minnesota’s military community. This 850th show is both a celebration of that legacy and a reminder of the work still ahead.

Thank you for listening and for supporting Minnesota’s Veterans every week.

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Supporting Veterans Through Corporate Connection and Canine Companionship

Supporting Veterans Through Corporate Connection and Canine Companionship

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we highlight two organizations making a meaningful difference for Minnesota’s military community. First, we explore Medica and its Medica Salutes Veterans Employee Resource Group, which supports Veterans and allies through connection, professional development, and community service. In the second half, we meet the team from Believet Canine Service Partners, which builds life-changing service dog partnerships for disabled Veterans and their families.

Guests:

The show opens with John Zillhart and Matt Eich discussing their military careers and how those experiences shape their work at Medica. They share how Medica Salutes Veterans creates a supportive network through monthly meetings, guest speakers on topics like PTSD, suicide prevention, and military spouse experiences, and active participation in Beyond the Yellow Ribbon initiatives. The conversation offers valuable insights for Veterans transitioning to civilian careers — including translating military leadership, teamwork, and communication skills — and advice for companies seeking to recruit and retain Veteran talent.

Listeners will also hear about real-world impact through volunteer efforts, community partnerships, and upcoming events that extend support beyond the workplace.

In the second half, Sam Daly and Scott Listberger from Believet Canine Service Partners discuss how highly trained service dogs help disabled Veterans regain independence, reduce medication reliance, and rebuild family and community connections. They share inspiring success stories of Veterans who transitioned from years of isolation to active lives, along with details on their matching process, ongoing support, and the critical role of volunteers in puppy raising and training. The organization operates without government funding and maintains lifelong commitment to every Veteran they serve.

Through corporate allyship and dedicated nonprofit work, these organizations demonstrate powerful ways to honor and support Veterans long after their service.

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Supporting Military-Connected Students at MSU Moorhead and Federal Ammunition’s Ongoing Commitment to Veterans and Families

Supporting Military-Connected Students at MSU Moorhead and Federal Ammunition’s Ongoing Commitment to Veterans and Families

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we explore education and transition support for Veterans, service members, and military family members at Minnesota State University Moorhead. We also highlight how Federal Ammunition continues to support the military community through donations, events, and partnerships.

Guests:

Aaron Krenz and Josh Clark discuss the Veteran Success Program, Yellow Ribbon Advanced initiatives, challenges faced by military-connected students, resume translation, employer partnerships, paid practicum opportunities, the Dragon Student Veterans Club, and Dragon Valor training. They share inspiring success stories of students thriving in education and careers.

Dennis Angel, Jared Courtney, and Mark Hyland highlight Federal Ammunition’s long-standing support for military charities, including ammunition and funding for the Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp, Shoot for the Troops / Shooting for the Troops events benefiting the Minnesota Military Family Foundation, the Blaine Veterans Memorial Park, Twin Cities Honor Flight, and many more. They also reflect on the company’s 104-year history and commitment to giving back.

This episode showcases meaningful ways organizations are helping Veterans and military families succeed in education, transition to civilian life, and receive community support.

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Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans: Helping Veterans & Spouses Transition Successfully

Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans: Helping Veterans & Spouses Transition Successfully

On this episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug Wortham welcomes Brad L. Doboszenski, President of the Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans, and Dr. Marisa Naryka, military spouse and active member of the organization.

They discuss the real challenges Veterans face when transitioning to civilian careers and how the Eagle Group provides practical, peer-to-peer support to make that transition smoother.

Featured Guests:

Key Topics Covered:

  • The critical importance of networking and building connections after service
  • Translating military skills and experience into civilian language for resumes and interviews
  • Peer-to-peer mentorship and camaraderie for Veterans and military spouses
  • Overcoming common obstacles like resume writing, interviewing, and maintaining a positive attitude
  • Dr. Marisa Naryka’s personal transition journey from higher education into a new leadership role
  • Upcoming 8th Annual Eagle Group Heroes Golf Tournament on August 17th at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville

This episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for any veteran or military family member navigating life after service.

Learn More & Get Involved:

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Military Spouse Appreciation Month and Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp

Military Spouse Appreciation Month and Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp

This week, Minnesota Military Radio recognizes Military Spouse Appreciation Month and Military Spouse Appreciation Day with a meaningful conversation focused on the strength, resilience, and sacrifice of military spouses. This episode highlights life on the home front, including the realities of deployments, long separations, family responsibilities, and the importance of strong support networks for military families.

Military spouses often serve without wearing the uniform, yet their role is essential to mission readiness and sustained service. This discussion offers firsthand insight into navigating military life, maintaining communication during separations, and reintegrating after deployments.

In the second segment, we highlight the Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp, a long-standing program that supports military-connected youth by providing connection, structure, and shared experience at Camp Ripley. The camp helps children build resilience while bringing together peers who understand the unique challenges of military life.

This Week’s Guests

  • Christina Rost – A former Minnesota National Guard Soldier and military spouse sharing perspectives on service, family life, and resilience on the home front.
  • Ron Stenger – A retired Minnesota National Guard Soldier discussing life as a military spouse, parent, and the importance of communication and support during deployments.
  • Rich Kemp – A retired Minnesota Army National Guard Master Sergeant highlighting the mission and impact of the Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp.
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