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Beyond The Frontline

Beyond The Frontline

By: Donna Hoffmeyer & Jay Johnson
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About this listen

Beyond the Frontline is a podcast of Coming Home Well Tune in as your hosts, Donna Hoffmeyer and Jay Johnson, both U.S. Air Force veterans, tackle topics relating to transitioning from the Frontline to the Homefront. Get to know your host, Donna Hoffmeyer is a 21-year retired Air Force nurse; with a career that spanned from nursing, flight nursing, education, training, readiness, and policy. Donna has a master’s degree in Sport Science and has co-authored her first book, Warrior to Patriot Citizen; focusing on ensuring service members are prepared for transition well before transition occurs. She also has her own blog, Taking Off The Armor, focused on all issues before, during and after transition and after retirement, as well as, a multifaceted business, REBel LLC, focused on veteran transition mentorship, consulting, and publishing her own work. Get to know your host, Jay Johnson is the owner and CEO of J2 Servant Leadership, LLC, a consulting company just outside of San Antonio, TX. He is a certified coach, trainer, and motivational speaker. Jay is a retired United States Air Force veteran with 21 plus years of service. During his time in uniform, he had the pleasure of serving 10.8 years enlisted and an additional 11 years commissioned. Jay retired from active duty in 2010 and worked for five years as a government civil service employee before assuming his current duties. Over the course of his professional life, he has served as a weapons instructor, EMT, Commandant of Cadets and Assistant Professor (Auburn University), change manager, and strategic planner. Jay serves on two Boards of Directors, is President of his BNI chapter, and is active in Kiwanis, Rotary, and local chambers of commerce. He holds a BAAS in Behavior Analysis and Sociology from the University of North Texas, and an M.Ed. from the University of Oklahoma.© 2023 Beyond The Frontline Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Management Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Navigating Transition: Philanthropy & the Veteran Journey
    Jun 20 2025

    In this enlightening episode of Beyond the Frontline, host Donna welcomes Megan Andros from the Heinz Endowments for a powerful conversation on the challenges and opportunities veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. As a veteran and thought leader in veteran philanthropy, Megan brings a wealth of experience and research to the table.

    Together, they explore:

    • The role of soft skills in post-military success
    • How nonprofit support systems can make—or break—the transition experience
    • Why data-driven approaches are essential to improving veteran outcomes
    • The impact of philanthropic investments in shaping future veteran services

    Whether you're a veteran, a supporter, or someone passionate about social impact, this episode offers meaningful insights into the evolving landscape of veteran support.

    🔗 Tune in now to hear how strategic philanthropy and informed programming can create real change in veterans’ lives.

    Resources & Links:

    • Learn more about the Heinz Endowments

    #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #Philanthropy #BeyondTheFrontline #DataDrivenChange

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    49 mins
  • The Power of Mentorship with Thomas LaGrave
    Jun 17 2025

    In this episode of Beyond the Frontline, host Donna Hoffmeyer sits down with Thomas LaGrave, a Veteran and the passionate founder of Honor Bound Academy. Together, they dive into a powerful and moving conversation about the importance of mentorship—especially for youth impacted by the absence of parental figures due to military service, incarceration, or other life challenges.

    Thomas opens up about his personal story, sharing his journey from battling addiction to finding purpose through recovery, faith, and service. He reveals how love, structure, and positive role models transformed his life—and how that same support can change the lives of at-risk youth.

    This episode is a reminder that everyone has the power to make a difference. Whether you're a parent, teacher, veteran, or simply someone who cares, your influence matters.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Thomas’s journey from addiction to founding Honor Bound Academy
    • The impact of growing up without parental guidance
    • How veterans can use their leadership and life experience to mentor youth
    • The role of love, structure, and faith in transformation
    • Practical ways to get involved and support the next generation

    Links & Resources:

    • Honor Bound Academy
    • Connect with Thomas Le Grave on IG @thomasjlagravejr or FB Thomas J. LaGrave Jr. Author
    • Support youth mentorship programs in your community

    Call to Action:

    If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find Beyond the Frontline. And remember—your story and support could be the spark that changes a young life.

    Subscribe & Follow:

    Never miss an episode! Subscribe to Beyond the Frontline on [Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, etc.], and follow us on IG @cominghomewellorganization

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • The Healing Power of Service Dogs with Ryan Woodruff
    Jun 17 2025

    In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Frontline, host Donna welcomes Ryan Woodruff, a combat veteran and the CEO of Clear Path for Veterans. Together, they explore the life-changing role service dogs play in the lives of veterans, offering comfort, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    Ryan opens up about his personal journey from military service to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping fellow veterans. Through initiatives like peer mentoring, canine programs, and community outreach, Clear Path for Veterans is creating a space where veterans can heal, grow, and reconnect.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • Ryan Woodruff’s journey from the military to nonprofit leadership
    • How service dogs provide emotional and physical support for veterans
    • The mission and impact of Clear Path for Veterans
    • The importance of peer mentoring and community in the healing process
    • Real stories of transformation and hope

    Why You Should Listen:

    This episode sheds light on the profound connection between veterans and service dogs, highlighting how compassion, community, and companionship can pave the way toward recovery and renewed purpose. Whether you're a veteran, a supporter, or someone passionate about mental health, this conversation offers insight and inspiration.

    Resources & Links:

    • Learn more about Clear Path for Veterans
    • IG @clearpath4vets
    • Facebook Clear Path For Veterans

    Subscribe & Stay Connected:

    Don’t miss an episode of Beyond the Frontline! Subscribe on [Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, etc.] and leave a review to help us reach more listeners in the veteran community.

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    59 mins
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