The Freedom 13 Non-Profit Organization, and the vision of The Freedom 13 Recreational Retreat Camps, was founded to honor and remember our son, LCPL Jared M. Schmitz, USMC, along with the other 12 brave American Heroes.

The 13 – The Freedom 13 – tragically lost their lives in a suicide bombing at Abbey Gate, Hamid Karzai International Airport, Kabul, Afghanistan on 26 AUG 2021, 17:50 local time.

A 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization 87-4691628, The Freedom 13 Organization was created to build Veteran Recreational Camps on 100+ acres of land in all 50 states to help US military veterans, police officers and their families and fellow veterans rediscover themselves and to support the physical and mental well-being of these veterans. Our 1st Freedom Camp has been purchased in Bourbon, MO! Consists of 171 acres, stocked fishing lake, 2 homes already on site (11 more to build) 4 miles of riding trails, excellent hunting (deer, turkey, pheasant)
We will be building 13 homes on each Freedom Camp for veterans and their families to use for a week at a time just like an Airbnb. A safe place they can come to take a knee, bond with other gun carrying 1st responders. Resources will be made available to those that need help with PTSD, suicide prevention and service dogs etc.

Learn more by visiting https://thefreedom13.org/

Award Winning Author, Retired ATF Arson Investigator and Fire/Crime Scene Consultant Wayne M. Miller joins us in studio to talk about his career as an Arson Investigator and talking about his various books.

Wayne Miller was a Special Agent, Criminal Investigator and Certified Fire Investigator for the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms in Boston for 25 years. He has been involved in numerous high profile illegal firearms, bombing and arson cases. As a member of the ATF National Response Team, Mr. Miller responded to several major fire and explosion incidents. During his public and 18-year private career, he examined more than 2,300 fire and explosion scenes in 43 states plus provided expert testimony in numerous Federal and State courts. He also has 3,000 hours of training in all aspects of fire science and fire investigation, plus he has studied over 100 training fires.

​Mr. Miller has been a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators since 1984 and has held numerous positions within the MA Chapter of the IAAI. Besides teaching fire investigation as an Adjunct Professor at Cape Cod Community College for 2 semesters, he has been a speaker on fire-related topics over 80 times throughout the United States and in Canada.

Learn more about Wayne and Purchase his books at https://www.burnbostonburn.com/

7pm & 8pm in person we talk about the Officer Ron Tarentino JR Charitable Fund and the in process Blue Star Family License Plates.

Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. Charitable Fund

May 22, 2016 is a day that forever changed the lives of many. While working the overnight shift of 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., Ron conducted a traffic stop that became fatal. Ron was Killed in the Line of Duty at the age of 42 and with 9 years of service to the towns of Leicester and Auburn.

Established in 2018, The Officer Ronald Tarentino, Jr. Charitable Fund is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring Ron’s memory. Shortly after that tragic day, his family and friends began to learn from the community how much Ron had selflessly given of himself through simple acts of kindness and generosity. After hearing so many stories of how Ron impacted his community in a positive way, a group of his family and friends wanted to come together to carry on Ron’s unique way of helping others.

The mission of the Officer Ronald Tarentino, Jr. Charitable Fund is to promote Acts of Kindness, Acts of Generosity and Service to the Community. Our multi-purpose focus is:

Helping families who have experienced loss, serious illness, or tragic events, including families of first responders and military, with needed financial assistance to cover the cost of funeral expenses, medical bills, and other burdening expenses.

Granting scholarships to graduating seniors pursuing secondary education in community-service oriented careers.

Supporting local food pantries, youth and family services, seniors, shelters and local veteran organizations / active military.

Sponsoring programs within local school systems that promote kindness and involve students in positive outlets, while building a connection to their community.

Providing needs within our communities that have included holiday gift giving for children undergoing cancer treatment, supporting children with special needs through assistive technology and service dogs, and organizing community support for local children in long term medical care.

Learn more here: https://www.tarentinocharitablefund.org/index.html

Blue Star Family License Plates

Behind every fallen officer is a family whose life is forever changed.
In this video, we are honored to share the story of Caitlin Tarentino, sister of Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr., who was tragically killed in the line of duty. Caitlin’s words reflect the profound loss carried by families of fallen officers and the enduring impact of their loved one’s service and sacrifice.
Her story helps illustrate why the Blue Star Family License Plate matters. It is more than a symbol. It is a visible and lasting way to honor the families who continue to carry the memory of those who gave their lives protecting others.
We invite you to watch, reflect, and join us in supporting this important effort to honor Officer Tarentino and all law enforcement families who have paid the ultimate price. Caitlin Tarentino’s story helps illustrate why the Blue Star Family License Plate matters. It is more than a symbol. It is a visible and lasting way to honor the families who continue to carry the memory of those who gave their lives protecting others. 

Watch Caitlin’s story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNpvoEdXmFU

Learn more about the plate here: https://malegislature.gov/PressRoom/Detail?pressReleaseId=310

With the Boston Marathon under 1 month away, Team Hoyt New England visits us in the studio to discuss the race and adaptive wheelchair racing.

Team Hoyt New England aims to help those who are physically disabled in becoming active members of the community. Join us in spreading Team Hoyt message, “Yes You Can!” Team Hoyt New England is inspired by the father/son duo, Dick and Rick Hoyt.

Learn More at https://www.facebook.com/TeamHoytNewEngland

7pm  & 8pm: Veteran First Responder Ministry Founder John Lombardo

Veteran First Responder Ministry: They are a recognized 501(c)(3) public charity and Christian faith-based organization that offers spiritual guidance, coaching, mentorships, peer-to-peer support, community connections, resources, and advocacy tailored to Veterans, First Responders, Military Members, and their families.

John Lombardo is a Christian Spiritual Coach, Mentor, and U.S. Army veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2007 to 2008. Having personally walked through the depths of PTSD and depression, his healing journey led to a divine calling: the founding of Veterans and First Responders Ministry, Inc., a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to spiritual restoration, purpose, and hope. With over a decade of experience mentoring servicemembers and veterans—both during his military career and beyond—John draws from personal and professional insights to offer a unique blend of coaching rooted in biblical truth. Grounded in the teachings of Jesus, his ministry helps others rediscover identity, faith, and resilience through compassionate guidance and transformational leadership. He holds an undergraduate degree in Business from American Military University, a Master’s in Organizational Development and Change from Penn State University, and has pursued graduate studies in Christian Leadership at Liberty University to deepen his faith-driven approach.

Learn more by visiting https://www.vfrministry.org/

7pm: Veteran Service Officer Chris Dery

Chris will join us in studio and discuss veterans benefits, disabilities and things you are entitled too as a veteran. Chris is the join VSO for Tyngsboro & Dracut MA. 

8pm: Labyrinth Therapeutic Services 

Aaron Dugan, Founder & President (USMC Veteran) of Labyrinth joins us in studio. Labyrinth is a 501(c)3 non-profit that help our military and first responders find peers to connect with through out-of-the-ordinary events like horseback riding, axe throwing, hiking, fishing, and so many more. Connection isn’t only found sitting in a circle and talking!

Learn more by visiting: https://www.labyrinththerapeuticservices.org/

MLK Day- this is a repeat show.

Snow Snow Snow….. 

Guest: Brent & Paula AuCoin

Retired New Hampshire State Police Major & USMC Veteran Christopher P. AuCoin died on December 7, 2022 after an internal battle with his demons. Major AuCoin’s parents Brent & Paula AuCoin join us to discuss Chris and talk about the struggle a family deals with after a suicide.

Obituary

7pm Timeslot Guest Sean Maloney- Owner & Chief Saucier, USAF 

Sean’s journey in the world of hot sauce and culinary delights began long before his birth, sparked by his mother’s cravings for hot sauce during pregnancy. Where she used to go to the local taco shop and eat straight up hot sauce packets. Fast forward to the age of 10 he was diagnosed with high blood pressure from using too much hot sauce on his food.

15 years later, as an Air Force veteran, his two overseas deployments gave him a new-found perspective on life. Seeing both human resilience and fragility firsthand pushed him to create something truly meaningful.

https://www.13starshotsauce.com/

Guest: Ginger Munson- Army Veteran & Author

Consulting: Walk with me and I will review your executive practices and business protocols to look for areas of improvement. I draw from my knowledge of DISC, Working Genius plus longstanding governance and management protocols. Together we will insure you move forward with ideas and plans for a smarter, not harder future. 

Mentoring & Coaching: I provide short term (1-5 sessions) or long term (6 months) individual coaching. We can also craft a workshop for your small business or peer group. Here I pull from military leadership principles, yoga teacher training, a pastoral care certification , and deep life experience to guide you through a situation or season with compassion boosting your clarity and courage. 

Military & Veteran Advocacy: Connection and awareness are my strengths for service members and veterans. My participation in statewide projects, local non-profits and radio programming allows me to promote your efforts and get you connected deeper into the military and veteran service community. 

Learn More By Visiting: https://www.gingermunson.com/

No Guest- Scott, Chris & Juls talk about local/national events and other topics related to mental health. 

Guest: Michael York- President & Founder

Veterans On The 48 is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to getting more veterans outside and onto the trails to promote healthy lifestyles both physically and mentally.

Learn More By Visiting www.veteransonthe48.org

7pm Timeslot Guest: Heather Labbe- Executive Director & Brandon

The Travis Mills Foundation supports post-9/11 recalibrated veterans and their families through various programs that help these heroic men and women overcome physical and emotional obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation.

We support these veterans through our nationally recognized retreat located in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine. Veteran families who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses-paid, barrier-free experience in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors.

Learn More By Visiting https://travismillsfoundation.org/

Repeat Show. Hope you have a Safe and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Guest: Mike ‘Stickers’ Goldsteine

The C.A.N. Report is a mission to bring the fire service and first responder community of New Hampshire to the masses. NH has such a rich history in the fire service, and so many talented individuals within the state. My mission is to bring those departments and people to light. Of course, the fire service community spreads nationwide and we are all family. So along with speaking with my fellow brothers and sisters within NH, I am inviting all of my brothers and sisters from around the Nation to tell their stories, share their knowledge and passion to all of us.

Learn more about the podcast and listen to it on Spotify or Amazon Music (You can also search The C.A.N. Report)

Guest: Jay Bailey
Guest: Linda Kokoros

“Hope Beyond The Badge”
H.O.P.E beyond the badge foundation is a Podcast that brings awareness about mental health in first response.
Is also a support group for families of first responders. Offering connection education, awareness, and prevention tools to families.
Learn More By Visiting https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093595206318

“Alex G. Kokoros Memorial Fund”
Offering H.O.P.E. to First Responders who struggle with their mental health. Helping smash the stigma. Alex took his own life in October 2018 at the age of 35, he was a Sergeant with the Abington Police Department. 
Learn More By Visiting https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090927351037

7pm Timeslot Guest: Tracy Eldridge- On Scene First

After 25+ years in Public Safety, Tracy has recently launched her own company/podcast, On Scene First, which focuses on educating public safety professionals on must-have technology tools, leadership skills, and mental health resources to “save lives on both sides of the call.”

She spent many years serving her community in rural Massachusetts, from the dispatcher to chief dispatcher. She still serves as an on-call firefighter/EMT on her local fire department. She is also one of the lead instructors for their Fire/EMS Explorer post.

On Scene First is a hub for public safety education, training, and support in the areas of technology, leadership, mental health, and tips and tricks. Here we will highlight the latest and greatest must-have technological tools, Leadership strategies, and mental health resources in the public safety space. In addition, we’ll feature entertaining, educational, and empowering interviews with public safety difference-makers, including 9-1-1 insiders and field responders, who are harnessing the power of new technology, out-of-the-box thinking, and mental health resources to equip first responders to save lives on both sides of the call.

Learn more by visiting https://www.onscenefirst.com/

7pm Timeslot Guest: Robert Garland- Founder & CEO Fund The First

FundtheFirst.com is the #1 trusted and free fundraising platform for those who serve, their families and their friends. Before founding Fundthefirst.com, Robert was a decorated Detective with the New York City Police Department, specializing in complex narcotics investigations. During his 14 years in law enforcement, he worked in various roles, including joint interagency operations with the Department of Homeland Security and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Well-respected in his field, he also served as an expert witness to the Office of Special Narcotics New York.

Learn more by visiting https://fundthefirst.com/

Scott, Juls and Mike talk Mental Health and resources during Mental Health Awareness month. Recap of 22 for the 22. 

Show replayed from May 19.

Happy Labor Day! 

This is a replayed show. TBD what episode will be played, stay tuned.

Military Veteran, Writer, and Comerdian Jody Sloane joins us to talk about her career and the Hidden Battles Comedy Class.

Growing up, Sloane had a knack for finding humor in the darkest corners of life. Whether it was the absurdity of a government cheese sculpture or the quirks of her mother’s self-medicating with Winstons and Ring Dings, nothing was off-limits for her infectious laughter-inducing commentary. Her friends quickly learned that any situation could become a comedy goldmine with her around.

Fast forward to mid-life, Sloane cut her entertainment teeth doing her sit-down schtick as a cheeky conductor on the Boston duck tours. Her duck tour experience was the perfect tee up to becoming a standup comedian. She’s now a regular at esteemed comedy venues from New York to Maine and has been featured in several comedy festivals, including Laugh Your Asheville Off, Boston Comedy Festival, and The Women In Comedy Festival.

If you’re ready to embrace the perversely hilarious, and you’re not afraid to explore the comical underbelly of life, then Sloane is your guide. Get ready to indulge your inner imp and join Jody Sloane for a night of comedy that’s delightfully twisted and wickedly entertaining.

Learn more about Jody by visiting her website: https://jodysloane.com/home

7pm: Irreverent Warriors

This organizations mission is to bring veterans together using humor and camaraderie to omprove mental health and prevent suicide.

ir·rev·er·ent (adj.) an inability to take serious things seriously

Learn more by visiting https://irreverentwarriors.com/

Larry Prentice; or ‘Tiger’ as some call him is a 3rd generation veteran. His Maternal Grandfather served in Korea,  father served in Vietnam, and Tiger served in Iraq. He started this walk in 2023 after listening to Adam Ezra Group songs and message of doing more and together we can change the world. They host an annual music festival that raises money to help end veteran homelessness. Tiger wanted to do more to help, so he organized a 20 mile walk on the very trail where he first had the idea!

Our first year, 2023, we raised $2,369.00!!!

In 2024, we donated $9000.00!!

In 2025, we donated $19,000!!

Together, we can change the world ONE mile at a time!!

Learn More: https://walkwithtiger.org/

Holiday Cards For Our Military Challenge with President Dr. Laura Landerman-Garber

The primary goal of the Holiday Card Challenge and #cards2connect Programs is the collection and delivery of personalized, signed expressions of respect, caring, and gratitude to US Troops, Veterans, and Service Families, and to decrease the airspace between the general public and our Military. Your greeting cards and letters reflect your genuine support and caring, respect and appreciation of our military heroes, letting them know that they are not alone during the winter holiday season and now throughout the year.

*** 2025 is the 7th year of our Nonprofit and our 21st year of signing cards for our Warriors ! 2024 was the year that we sent out our 1.5 MILLIONTH card to our Military and their families, with 1,495,000 in last 8 years! ***

Learn more by visiting https://militaryholidaycardchallenge.com/

7pm- Pat Hubbell CoFounder of Candorful

Pat Hubbell  joins the Hidden Battles Radio Team to give more information about Candorful and discuss the upcoming Fire Side Chat Event being held on 11/12. Pat talks with Chris and Scott about the relationship with unemployment and the direct relation to mental health, depression and suicide.

We know firsthand the difficulties of military transition and the job search that follows. Job seekers who are Service Members or Veterans need to translate their experiences and skills to launch their career.
Our mock interviews prepare them to make a great first impression and get hired into the civilian workforce.
The career transition road for non-military professionals isn’t easy either. Practice interviews are the key to smoothing that career shift for those at risk. Prepare for job interviews with Candorful.

Learn More at https://candorful.org/
Fire Side Chat Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dt775k3TSuCT_TYSqsoowA#/registration

 8pm: Dr. Kim Stewart
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of Law Enforcement (it’s not that ugly). 

This is a replayed show. TBD what episode will be played, stay tuned.

8pm- Amber Smith from Two Lives at Once also known as I Got Your Six (IGY6)

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to bridge the gap between rescue puppies and those in need of emotional support. We firmly believe in the healing power of the human-animal bond, and it is our goal to extend a helping hand to both rescue puppies and individuals facing difficult times.

At Two Lives at Once, we are deeply committed to making a profound impact in the lives of veterans struggling with PTSD. Our unwavering mission is to pair these courageous men and women with dogs that have been rescued from kill shelters, offering them a second chance at life. Through the generosity of kind-hearted donors like you, we are able to provide comprehensive training and service animal certification to these deserving veterans. But our mission doesn’t end there. We also offer ongoing support and guidance to ensure our veterans and their furry companions thrive together. Join us today and become a vital part of our incredible cause, where together, we can truly transform lives.

Learn more by visiting: https://twolivesatonce.com/

7pm- Voice of Rich, LLC- Richard Shutes

Rich will be calling into the show and talking about the differences and services that 988, 911, and 211 provide. Rich has worked with all three of these numbers in a variety of capacities and overlapping with support to veterans and other first responders. 

Find Rich on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardshutes/

7pm- Matt Kowalski

Matt is an OIF/OEF Combat Veteran and Purple Heart Recipient as well as being a fire fighter. Matt is also heavily involved with Hidden Battles and the events they put on. Tune in as Matt talks about his story; being deployed and when an IED hit his convoy in Afghanistan, his recovery at Fort Bragg, becoming homeless and becoming clean. This is a tear jerker! 

Hidden Battles is greatful for Matt sharing his story and we are so proud of Matt and honored to be part of his journey in the right direction.