Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast

In this episode, retired Riverside police detective Katie Mendonca shares her powerful story of survival and resilience after a violent line-of-duty attack left her with severe injuries and a traumatic brain injury. From losing her voice for nearly two years to fighting her way back through recovery, Katie opens up about the challenges of healing—both seen and unseen—and how the support of the Gary Sinise Foundation helped her find her strength again.Preorder Resurrection & Revival, Part 3 by Mac Sinise now! https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/resurrection-and-revival-part-3Learn more about the Gary Sinise Foundation:Website: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GarySiniseFoundationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GarySiniseFoundation/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garysinisefoundationMake a donation today: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donateSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to Season 3 of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast! In the season premiere, Gary takes over the host seat (literally!) and sits down with our very own Cristin Kampsnider for a conversation about her personal service journey. From her time in the Marines to her service at GSF, this is one episode not to be missed.Preorder Resurrection & Revival, Part 3 by Mac Sinise now! https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/resurrection-and-revival-part-3Learn more about the Gary Sinise Foundation:Website: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GarySiniseFoundationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GarySiniseFoundation/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garysinisefoundationMake a donation today: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donateSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special season finale, host Cristin sits down with Gary Sinise for a candid and reflective conversation about the mission, meaning, and growth of the Gary Sinise Foundation. From its humble beginnings to its impact today, Gary shares why service has always been at the heart of everything he does—and why he believes the work is never finished. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

U.S. Marine, Jason Ross, survived a catastrophic IED blast in Afghanistan that left him with less than a 2% chance to live. In this inspiring episode, Jason shares the moment everything changed, his long road through recovery, his faith and family who carried him, and the humor that kept him fighting. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this inspiring episode, Marine Corps Captain and helicopter pilot Sarah Bettencourt shares how a rare neurological condition abruptly ended her military career and sparked a new mission. From losing mobility to becoming a five-time Para-Surfing World Champion, Sarah reveals how resilience, community, and adaptive sports helped her reclaim her life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

U.S. Navy Corpsman Doc Jacobs was serving on the front lines in Iraq when an IED explosion changed his life forever. Against all odds, Doc survived devastating injuries and the loss of both legs. But he refused to stop serving. From becoming the first amputee corpsman to redeploy, to pursuing Major League Baseball tryouts, to honoring fallen heroes through battlefield recovery missions, Doc’s story redefines courage, perseverance, and purpose. In this powerful conversation, Doc opens up about the day he was injured, his long road to recovery, and how the Gary Sinise Foundation gave him a home built for healing. He shares what it means to truly live a life of service—long after the uniform comes off. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2011, Marine Corps veteran Nick Kimmel was serving in Afghanistan when an IED blast devastated his body. Defying the odds, Nick became one of the few triple amputees to survive his injuries. In this powerful episode, Nick shares his remarkable journey from the day of his life-altering injury to his relentless recovery, rediscovering his passion for golf, and building a life defined not by loss, but by possibility. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marine Corps Corporal Jose Armenta was serving in Afghanistan as a canine handler when an IED blast took both his legs but never his determination. In this moving episode, Jose shares how his Marine mindset carried him through recovery, how his loyal working dog Zenit became his lifeline, and how he found new purpose helping others build a future beyond hardship. His story is one of courage, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a Marine and his dog. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Army Captain, Tyson Quink’s life was forever changed when an explosive device, hidden in one of the most dangerous regions of Afghanistan, essentially amputated both of his legs. In this powerful episode, Tyson shares his harrowing story of the day he was injured and the long and the painful recovery that followed. More than a story of survival, Tyson’s journey is a reminder of the indomitable strength of the human spirit, the importance of family, and the enduring gratitude owed to those who sacrifice so much for our freedom. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a roadside attack in Iraq left Army Sergeant First Class Joe Bowser critically wounded, he was forced to make the life-changing decision to amputate his leg. What could have led to a life full of anger and despair became a rallying point for a powerful new chapter in his story. With grit, faith, and a wry sense of humor, Joe pushed through intense pain to find purpose in serving others. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode, Cristin sits down with Army veteran and country music artist, Scotty Hasting, as he shares his extraordinary journey from the battlefield to the stage. After surviving ten gunshot wounds in Afghanistan, Scotty faced years of recovery, survivor’s guilt, and the weight of Post Traumatic Stress — until music became his lifeline. In this powerful conversation, Scotty reveals how songwriting turned his pain into purpose, how his songs have inspired others to keep going, and why he believes the stage is now his sanctuary. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with Taylor Hargis, wife of U.S. Army Ranger Josh Hargis. Taylor’s world was forever changed when Josh was catastrophically injured while serving overseas. From the famous “salute seen around the world” to building a new life together in their specially adapted smart home, Taylor shares raw, heartfelt insights into resilience, sacrifice, and the power of unwavering love. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin for this can’t-miss episode with former Navy SEAL, Jason Redman. After surviving a brutal ambush that resulted in a gunshot to the face, Jason shares how pain, faith, and a relentless can-do mindset helped him battle back, lead others, and ultimately inspire millions to overcome life’s toughest challenges. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with U.S. Army COL Greg Gadson who shares his incredible journey following the loss of both legs in an IED explosion in Iraq. From the football field to the battlefield to the big screen, Greg opens up about healing without hate, finding purpose in pain, and living each day with presence, peace, and a passion to give back. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with Mike O’Dell and Tom Spooner, the warriors behind Warriors Heart. After years of combat, addiction, and personal loss, Mike and Tom turned their deepest wounds into a powerful mission of hope and healing. Warriors Heart is a defender-focused sanctuary where veterans and first responders rediscover purpose, connection, and find strength through healing. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with award winning Country artist Craig Morgan who opens up about his faith, military service, grief, and purpose. From the battlefield to the biggest stages in the world, Craig shares his incredible story and how music helped him turn personal tragedy into healing. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin for a powerful conversation with U.S. Army Ranger (Ret.) and GSF Ambassador Mike Schlitz, as he reflects on what service and sacrifice truly mean — and shares the story of meeting Gary Sinise for the first time. From the battlefield and the bonds that are created in service to something greater than oneself, Mike’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and a continuing passion to do a little more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special Memorial Day episode of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast, founder Gary Sinise joins Cristin on-site in Washington, D.C. to reflect on the true meaning of service and sacrifice. Recorded during Memorial Day weekend, Gary shares powerful insights on honoring our fallen heroes, what this day means to him, and how his late son Mac's music was featured at the National Memorial Day Concert and parade — a proud moment for any father. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with gratitude, remembrance, and the enduring legacy of service. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast, in honor of Mac Sinise, Cristin sits down with filmmaker Jake Rademacher—producer and director of Brothers at War and Brothers After War. Jake shares the emotional journey of watching his brothers deploy to combat zones, the impact of their return, and how their service inspired him to capture the military experience through film. This powerful conversation dives into themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, storytelling, and the lasting effects of war on families. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast! Join Cristin and guest Vincent K. Brooks, a retired Four-Star General. General Brooks made history as the first African American to be named First Captain in the history of West Point. He then embarked on a 40-year career which took him all across the globe. Today he serves on the Board of Directors for the Gary Sinise Foundation as its Vice Chairman. To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's programs, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast! Join Cristin and guest Patty Horoho, retired Lt. General and former U.S. Army Surgeon General. Patty spent 33 years in the U.S Army, blazing a trail as the first nurse and first woman to serve as the U.S. Army Surgeon General. Today she is a key member of the Board of Directors of the Gary Sinise Foundation and is a tireless advocate for female veterans. Listen in as Patty shares her incredible journey of service. To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's programs, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast! Join Cristin and guest Ken Falke, retired Navy Master Chief and founder of Boulder Crest Foundation. Ken served 21 years in the Navy as an EOD tech. Today, he fosters post-traumatic growth for our defenders through his work at Boulder Crest. Listen in as Ken shares his extraordinary journey of service, leadership, and healing. To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's programs, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mac interviews his father, Gary Sinise, in a delightful father & son sit-down to discuss everything from music to mission with hilarious and touching anecdotes all along the way. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the inaugural episode of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast, Mac speaks with Kip Perry, our longtime video producer, about seeing firsthand the mission’s impact from behind the camera. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to Season 2 of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast! Join host Cristin Kampsnider as she sits down with retired U.S. Army Major General Clay Hutmacher. After serving for 40 years in uniform, Clay now uses the leadership skills he learned as a Special Ops commander to serve the children of fallen special operations personnel. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast host, Cristin Bartter (with a surprise visit from Gary Sinise), as she sits down at Disney World with two amazing moms, Monda Anderson and Corcynthia Williams, who both lost their beloved heroes in service to our great nation. This special episode was shot on scene at 2024's Snowball Express, Disney in December, annual event, where Gary and the GSF team welcomed thousands of family members just like Monda and Corcynthia for a pre-holiday experience to remember and share together. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join GSF Podcast host, Cristin Bartter, as she sits down with Army Captain (ret) Leslie Smith to discuss her amazing story of struggle, scars, and perseverance. As an Army public affairs officer deployed to Bosnia, Leslie developed a blood clotting disorder suddenly that left her fighting for her life. After losing her left leg and portions of her sight, she has become a champion for wounded, ill and injured veterans. To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's support to the military, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Gary Sinise Foundation podcast host, Cristin Bartter, as she sits down with an incredible warrior and patriot, Joshua Hargis. Josh is a former US Army Ranger and member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment with whom he deployed four times. During combat operations in Afghanistan on his last deployment, while serving as a K9 handler, Josh lost both legs in an explosion during an attack on his unit. Four Rangers died that same night, another Ranger also suffered amputations, and Josh lost his working dog, Jany. His story of grit, perseverance and unwavering love for country cannot be missed. Rangers Lead the Way! To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation and its support to the military, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Gary Sinise Foundation podcast host, Cristin Bartter, as she sits down with Gary and musical composer Oliver Schnee to celebrate and remember Gary's son, Mac Sinise, and the upcoming release of Mac's album, Resurrection and Revival Part 2. To preorder Mac Sinise's album Resurrection and Revival Part 2, please visit: https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/announcing-part-two-of-mac-sinise-resurrection-and-revival The GSF podcast was first created by Mac and now carries on his legacy by offering stories of the heroes that walk among us. To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's support the military, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Gary Sinise Foundation podcast host, Cristin Bartter, as she sits down with former Army soldier Jason Tabansky, an incomplete tetraplegic, who recently won the GOLD MEDAL for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. His incredible story of perseverance and resilience cannot be missed. In 2021, Gary Sinise was honored to provide Jason with a custom, specially adapted smart home for his family to live in, mortgage free. As Gary says, "While we can never do enough to show gratitude to our nation's defenders, we can always do a little more." To find out more about the Gary Sinise Foundation's support to severely wounded heroes, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Gary Sinise Foundation podcast host, Cristin Bartter, as she sits down with one of our nations most severely wounded heroes, Bryan Anderson. Bryan, a U.S Army veteran and long time friend of Gary Sinise, is the epitome of courage and resilience, who is not defined by his injuries and lives his life to the fullest. To learn more about the Gary Sinise Foundation and its support to our nation’s military, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need, please visit www.garysinisefoundation.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with Medal of Honor Recipient Sammy Davis and his wife, Dixie. Sammy shares what it means to receive the military’s highest honor and how he and Dixie strive to educate and inspire the next generation of Americans. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as she sits down with two of New York’s bravest, retired FDNY Firefighters Danny Prince and Mike Hyland. In this special episode, Danny and Mike share their experiences following the devastating terrorist attacks of 9/11 and how they continue to honor the memories of those lost. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin as we welcome Ginger Gilbert Ravella, widow of American hero Troy Gilbert. Ginger shares her grief journey as the surviving parent to five children who were all under the age of 9 at the time of Troy’s death, and how an unexpected friendship with a Hollywood actor helped change the course of her life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin Bartter and Gary Sinise Foundation Ambassador Travis Mills as he shares about his life changing injury, moving forward after the loss of his limbs and how he gives back to his fellow veterans through the Travis Mills Foundation. They also discuss Travis’s new book, Bounce Back: 12 Warrior Principles to Reclaim and Recalibrate Your Life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cristin Bartter and Gary Sinise’s daughters, Sophie and Ella, as they share about growing up in Hollywood, their family’s passion for service, the growth of the Gary Sinise Foundation, and what the mission means to them. They also share about the loss of their brother Mac, plus many behind-the-scenes stories you won’t want to miss. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode we sit with our founder, Gary Sinise, to talk all things mission, the loss of his son, and the launch of Mac’s album. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.