Podcast
Eye on Veterans
Hosted by CBS News · EN
Each week, Navy veteran and journalist Phil Briggs looks at life from the military veteran's perspective. We highlight veterans finding success as business owners and industry leaders. We also examine topics like treating PTSD, TBIs with innovative alternative therapies; hyperbaric oxygen, cannabis, psychedelics, etc. Plus, we hear dramatic stories from combat veteran authors, discover job openings, and meet celebrity actors, athletes, and musicians.
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Memorial Day Tribute and Miracles: Lt. General recalls battlefield triage at the Pentagon
3w ago00:33:06Tap to summarizeThis week we’re highlighting the National Memorial Day Concert, airing Sunday, May 24, 2026, on PBS. One concert segment will focus on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and will tell the story of Lieutenant General Patricia Horoho, one of the heroes at the Pentagon that day. After joining the U.S. Army, she trained in clinical trauma nursing and was assigned to the Pentagon in August 2001. Moments after terrorists crashed a plane into the heart of the DoD (only 100 yards from her office) she raced to the site and quickly emerged as the experienced leader. Lt. Gen. Horoho shared a vivid look at the battlefield triage that followed and how with only a belt and the supplies in a medic’s backpack, she started an IV and treated her first of 75 wounded patients that day. She also shared how 9/11 was not her only experience respoding to a plane crash. From Afghanistan deployments to becoming the first woman and nurse to serve as the Surgeon General of the United States Army, Lt. Gen. Horoho shares examples of service, sacrifice and true miracles. As our nation celebrates 250 years, we remember all those we have lost, and Horoho’s memories capture the pride of being American and the power of human connection. Watch the National Memorial Day concert on PBS: https://www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert/ See more from Lt. General (Ret.) Patricia Horoho and how she continues to serve our women veterans though 2 Serve Together: https://2servetogether.org/about/our-impact/
Transcribe →Combat veteran and TV celebrity JR Martinez host Medal of Honor podcast
May 800:41:29Tap to summarizeThis week we share our conversation with Army combat veteran, and Purple Heart recipient turned TV celebrity JR Martinez, about the inspiring podcast, “Medal of Honor, Stories of Courage”. We begin with a closer look JR’s life, who went from surviving an IED attack and severe burns, to winning “Dancing with The Stars” and a role on the daytime TV drama “All My Children”. He shared incredible moments from his personal recovery, including how an off-the-cuff comment he made to comfort his mother, eventually became reality as he went from the hospital to Hollywood, eventually starring in national television shows. Martinez also describes the true heroes covered in the podcast. Like tales of a soldier’s valor during WWI and the teacher who saved a student’s life. The Medal of Honor podcast, from the acclaimed producers at Pushkin, gives all listeners inspiration during these challenging times. Martinez also reminds us that while we hold Medal of Honor recipients in the highest regard, we all have what it takes to be a hero to others. Hear: Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage here: https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/medal-of-honor-stories-of-courage See: More from Army veteran JR Martinez here: https://jrmartinez.com/ Connect: Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs, phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →White House Greenlights Psychedelics: SEAL veteran Marcus Capone shares what comes next on this long legal trip
Apr 2400:54:14Tap to summarizeThis week we’re hearing about a major mental health milestone for psychedelic assisted therapy, after President Trump signed a landmark Executive Order demanding research on alternative treatments for severe mental illness. We broke it down with Marcus Capone, Navy SEAL veteran, Founder of Veterans Seeking Treatment Solutions and an elite combat vet whose life was saved after his experience with the psychedelic, Ibogaine. Capone describes how this Executive Order will impact the veteran community, the studies that show the efficacy of psychedelic medicine, and if the influence of Big Pharma will pervert research on plant-based medicines. We also take a closer look at what psychedelics qualify for the Executive Order’s “Breakthrough Therapy” designation, and if that will become a hurdle that disrupts veteran's ability to get access. Capone offers a glimpse at surprising connections between psychedelic medicine and God. And he shares the celebrity podcaster Joe Rogan played in getting President Trump to sign the Executive Order. For more on Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, and information on clinical research trials check out Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions: https://vetsolutions.org/ CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →Remembering Pat Tillman: Ranger, NFL Star, and the legacy that continues to inspire
Apr 2100:41:51Tap to summarizeOn Wednesday Apr 22 we remember the ultimate sacrifice of Army Ranger Pat Tillman who was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan. A unique Ranger in that he left a pro football career with The NFL’s Arizona Cardinals to join the Army shortly after 9/11, along with his brother. On the evening of April 22, 2004, Pat’s unit was ambushed as it traveled through the rugged, canyon terrain of eastern Afghanistan. His heroic efforts to provide cover for fellow soldiers led to his tragic death. Today we’re not only honoring his memory but also hearing how his incredible legacy lives on through the Pat Tillman Foundation. We’re joined by Tillman Foundation CEO Dr. Katherine Steele, and scholar recipient, Army veteran Maj. Bernard Toney Jr. Steele shares unique memories of Pat and how the Tillman Foundation grew from donations to his alma mater Arizona State University, to helping high caliber veteran students complete college and become the leaders of tomorrow. Army veteran Bernard Toney Jr. shares how he went from the Special Forces community (serving in the same area as Tillman, just 4 months after his death) to serving in The White House. And, how he hopes to make an impact in Public Health and improve the lives of Americans from all socio-economic backgrounds. Support The Pat Tillman Foundation here: https://pattillmanfoundation.org/ CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →Conquering Mountains: Augusta Army vet, adaptive sports athlete Dr. Lisa Maddox
Apr 1000:40:35Tap to summarizeThis week we’re checking out the Spring ski action in Snowmass Co, at the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. Every year incredible wounded warfighters gather for a week of skiing, boarding and the kind of healing only mother nature can provide. Our guest is Retired Army Major, Dr. Lisa Maddox, who overcame a leg amputation and proves that with the right mindset anything is possible. Lisa Maddox describes the feeling of shredding the slopes on a mono ski, and how it fuels her passion. She also shares how her injury has never stopped her from becoming a nationally renowned adaptive sports athlete who loves skiing, pickle ball, basketball, softball and more! We trace her journey from the guard changing ceremony at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington DC, to West Point. She tracked her entrance into medical school and the rare medical condition that resulted in her leg amputation. But losing a leg would never stop this Army veteran. Maj. Maddox shares how, after her surgery, she continued to serve her fellow vets as an MD at the Augusta VA and competed in The National Veterans Wheelchair Games. She’s also had some amazing experiences, including a cool story about attending the famed Masters Golf Tournament in her hometown of Augusta, and having a VIP view of the hit musical Hamilton. Check out more from Dr. Lisa Maddox, a US Army veteran, West Point graduate and an overall sports enthusiast, speaking to Detours at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ffR9f1XMgk See more from the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic here: https://www.wintersportsclinic.org/ CBS Eye on Veterans Host; Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →Command Your Cash: Learn and earn college credits with free finance course
Apr 200:23:21Tap to summarizeTake control of your financial future with the Command Your Cash course. Whether you are currently serving, a veteran, or a military spouse, this comprehensive personal finance course addresses the unique challenges of military life. The program is designed to be self-paced, helping learners sharpen their skills through key topics to build, grow, and protect their finances. We talked with two veterans about the course. Army veteran, former Artillery Officer, West Point football player and USAA Educational Foundation Executive, David Evetts, shared how this unique course helps service members and vets with everything from their finances to home buying tips to effective ways to destroy debt. Marine Corps veteran, and University of Maryland Global Campus student, Thomas "Dillon" Hale, described his experience with the "Command Your Cash" course and how it improved his family’s financial strategy and how the credits he earned helped him complete his degree even sooner. Find out more about this innovative and free financial course here: https://lms.usaaef.org/product?catalog=Command-Your-Cash
Transcribe →Iran War Report: SF vet Jack Murphy on escalation, resignation and sleeper cells
Mar 2000:47:00Tap to summarizeWe take a deeper look at the rapidly escalating War with Iran, with former Ranger, Special Forces and National Security writer Jack Murphy. We open with how veterans across the country feel about it, considering many have already endured decades of combat in Afghanistan and Iraq. Murphy also discusses the news of Special Forces veteran Joe Kent, whose resignation from National Counter Terrorism Center stirred up controversy earlier this week. And he highlighted what some have called antisemitism woven within the letter of resignation. Murphy also examines US leadership from President Trump’s decision to strike Iran to the effectiveness fellow Army veteran, Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth. We also examine the stark and troubling contrast between Murphy’s memories of Iraq policy and what is unfolding with Iran today. We also take a deeper look at veteran influencers and podcasters who push stories of terrorist sleeper cells within the US, and ask if fears of future attacks are warranted. For more of Jack Murphy’s National Security reporting, see ConnectingVets.com and his weekly podcast The Team House: http://www.youtube.com/@TheTeamHousePodcast
Transcribe →Iran War! SF veteran, author Brad Taylor examines Operation Epic Fury
Mar 600:45:51Tap to summarizeThis week we discuss Operation Epic Fury, with Army veteran and former SFOD-Delta, Lt. Colonel Brad Taylor. A veteran with years of covert operations experience, best-selling author and detailed researcher, Taylor looks at all sides of this war with Iran, which has broadened to a level not seen since WWII. We begin with what initiated the US-Israeli attack on Iran, and the dangers the world now faces. We looked back at Iran’s support of murderous terrorist groups, i.e., Hamas, Hezbollah, IRGC, Quds Force, and how Iran has been conducting asymmetric warfare for decades. We also take a deeper look at previous wars, and how killing our enemies is only half the battle. Taylor describes deadly lessons from Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya, and the true cost of leaving behind a failed state. He also offers lessons on successful US “dislocation strategies”, but pairs it with a brutally honest look at the current situation in Iran. And he describes a few end game scenarios, which leaves The Middle East and The United States with more questions than answers. More from Special Forces, OD-Delta veteran and best-selling author Brad Taylor here: https://bradtaylorbooks.com/ Check out his new book “Shadow Strike” (Coming April 21, 2026) https://bradtaylorbooks.com/all-books/shadow-strike/ Phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →Internet Radio that Rocks! Warrior Voices Radio and the Navy vet behind the mic
Feb 2700:42:44Tap to summarizeThis week we meet Navy veteran John Gully, who went from Navy ships and sonar frequencies to a career behind the mic on radio frequencies. Today he’s the Evening News Anchor for Prescott Tonight on News Talk Radio 103.5 FM in Prescott, AZ, but broadcasting was not his original plan. Gully shared memories of his days aboard ship and what it was like being a Sailor during the Cold War era … and any dangerous encounters with Russians? Gully revealed how after the Navy an impromptu attempt on the mic landed him a DJ shift at local radio station in San Diego. We discussed his career, how radio has evolved and why the owners dominating today’s media landscape have strayed from what originally made radio so popular. We also discussed his latest project, Warrior Voices Radio, and Internet radio station designed exclusively for the veteran community. Gully shares how he and their veteran team are unafraid to break radio format rules, play whatever they want (over 3K songs in the library) and how they can help their fellow veterans host their own radio show or create a podcast. Gully expressed how being on the radio took him on the journey of a lifetime, and how Warrior Voices Radio is there to help our fellow vets launch their own journey too. Check out the killer playlist and podcasts on Warrior Voices Radio here: https://warriorvoicesradio.com/
Transcribe →Honoring The Freedom 13: Gold Star Father building Veteran Retreat in Missouri
Feb 2000:41:23Tap to summarizeThis week we honor a fallen Marine, Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, who was KIA during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, at Abbey Gate in Kabul, on Aug 26, 2021. Our guest is Jared’s father, Mark Schmitz, who founded the non-profit organization “The Freedom 13”. He shared his mission and details about the veteran retreat and recreation center being built on a beautiful 171-acre property in the heart of Missouri. We begin with how Jared was born to be a Marine and how the way he lived his life inspired everyone who knew him. Schmitz shared how Jared’s impact was felt around the world. In a story that reveals the highest level of heroism, he recalled how at a large event he had a chance encounter with an Afghan refugee, who spoke of being rescued from Kabul by a young Maine with “Schmitz” on his uniform’ name badge. During our conversation we talked about the disastrous US withdrawal from Afghanistan and its impact on the veteran community. Schmitz described how his son and the others who served so bravely that day, inspired him to create a place where veterans, first responders and their families will always have a place to find comfort and healing. We discussed the scenic property in Bourbon, MO, which will feature 13 buildings where vets and their families can stay. Plus a ton of outdoor recreation like; fishing, shooting, pickleball and even all terrain golf carts to explore more of the great outdoors. Schmitz also shared his vision to eventually build more centers in all 50 states. Check out The Freedom 13 Veteran Retreat and Recreation Project here: https://thefreedom13.org/ Support The Freedom 13 here: https://thefreedom13.org/pages/donate-landing-page Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com
Transcribe →