Veterans’ Voices with VTC

Giving with Purpose: CEO Kurt Schake on Impact and Year-End Support

Join us for an inspiring conversation with VTC CEO Kurt Schake as he shares highlights from his nine years as CEO, the accomplishments he’s most proud of, and the progress VTC has made in serving Veterans. We also discuss the importance of end-of-year giving, the different ways to support our mission, and how generosity during this season helps change lives.

Mission-Driven Finance: Inside VTC with CFO Evan Heath and GPD’s Bill Gilreath

In this episode, we sit down with VTC’s CFO, Evan Heath, and GPD Case Manager, Bill Gilreath, for an inside look at what keeps our mission moving forward. Evan breaks down how the finance department operates behind the scenes and explains how community donations fill critical gaps. Supporting programs and services that grants and government funding simply don’t cover.
We’re also joined by Bill, who shares what it’s like serving Veterans on the front lines as a case manager, the impact he’s seen firsthand, and why he chose to return to VTC after retiring. Together, Evan and Bill offer a powerful look at the financial backbone and human heartbeat of our work with Veterans in need.

Hope Restored: Stories of Change at VTC

In this episode, we talk with Steve, an LTORR case manager, and Gerald, a Marine veteran, about resilience, recovery, and the transformative power of VTC’s programs. Steve shares his experience working with Veterans and how it differs from the other clients he has worked with. Gerald opens up about his military service, struggles with addiction, and how he finally found stability and sobriety with VTC’s support. Now months into sobriety and inspired for the future, Gerald embodies the success of VTC’s programs and their commitment to breaking the cycle of recidivism.

Behind the Grants: Thomas Lamphere is Back

In this follow-up conversation, we welcome Tom back to the podcast to dive deeper into his transformation, from military service, to VTC program graduate, to his impactful role as our grant writer. Tom reflects on the growth he’s experienced since his first appearance and the challenges and victories along the way. Join us as we explore what’s changed, what’s next, and what continues to drive his passion for helping fellow Veterans rebuild and thrive.

Where Policy Meets Practice

In this episode, we sit down with two incredible members of the VTC team: Will Myers, our Shelter Supervisor who oversees intake for Veterans entering the GPD program, and Tara Gibson, our dedicated HR Manager who helped build our HR department from the ground up.
Will shares insight into what it’s like welcoming Veterans into our programs and helping them take that first step toward stability. Tara reflects on her journey from GPD Case Manager to becoming VTC’s first HR Manager, and how her passion for helping people continues to shape the policies and culture that support our staff today.

Voices of Impact: Dan and Kristen Scott

In this heartfelt episode, we reconnect with Dan and Kristen Scott, two former VTC team members whose compassion and dedication left a lasting mark on the Veterans they served.
Joining us over the phone, Dan and Kristen share their experiences working at VTC, the moments that shaped their time here, and how their journey continues beyond the organization. Dan also opens up about his personal experience going through the program, offering an honest and inspiring look at the power of second chances.

A Life Restored, Part 2: Continuing Ronnie’s Journey

In this follow up episode, Ronnie Randon opens up about life after renewal and how he continues to stay grounded in his purpose. Joined again by his case manager, Korina McKinley, they reflect on the progress he’s made since beginning the LTORR program.

A Life Restored: Ronnie’s Story of Renewal

This episode explores the transformative journey of Ronnie, a Veteran in our LTORR program, as he reflects on the power of forgiveness and the process of rebuilding his life. His case manager, Korina McKinley, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the LTORR department, sharing the what drives her work every day. Together, they illustrate how LTORR empowers Veterans to heal and move forward.

Inside VTC: Bill, Kaleb & Randy Share Their Stories

In this episode, we sit down with three members of the VTC family. Kaleb, our Operations Director, shares what it takes to maintain our housing units and create safe spaces for Veterans. Bill Kelly, a Veteran and VTC Board Member, reflects on his time in the military and why he chose to join our board. And Randy, a proud VTC graduate turned staff member, opens up about his journey after the program and the milestones he’s achieved since.

Supporting Veterans Through Food & Art

Join us in this inspiring episode as Veteran Kenneth Critchfield opens up about his time at VTC and the work he now does in our pantry, helping fellow Veterans access meals and support. We’re also joined by Ryan, a Veteran on our operations team, and Regina Palmer, who shares insights about VTC’s weekly art class.