Mission43
Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan ...

In this short episode, we’re honored to hear from Dan McGurkin, the new Director and podcast host at Mission43, as he shares his journey, vision, and commitment to empowering veterans, service members, and their spouses. From his Idaho roots to his 13+ years of service is the US Marine Corps, Dan is a mission-driven individual who brings insight, purpose, and passion to the table. Listen in as Dan introduces himself, discusses his background and passion for helping veterans and military spouses, and previews his vision for Mission43. Be sure to subscribe, like, and hit the bell icon so you don’t miss future episodes of the Mission43 Podcast. Dan has planned some very exciting episodes for 2026!

Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan McGurkin (POD#068)
Mission43
Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: ...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with retired Army officer and former Division 1 basketball player Matt Sheftic to explore his unique journey from the basketball court to the battlefield. Matt shares how sports shaped his leadership values, how personal tragedy redefined his purpose, and how a combat mission in Iraq solidified his commitment to service. Now transitioning into civilian life, Matt discusses the challenges of finding purpose beyond the uniform and how the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship program gave him a new team, a new mission, and a new sense of belonging.

Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: Matt Sheftic (POD#067)
Mission43
Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing ...

Charis is a military spouse, Mission43 Leaders Fellow, Mission43 PMP graduate, and a dedicated mother who is preparing to reenter the labor market after supporting her family on the home front for the past few years. Listen in as she describes her experiences of living life on active duty and then making the transition back to civilian life here in Idaho.

Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing Leader: Charis Mix (POD#066)
Mission43
The Future of Classical Education, and The ...

This episode of the Mission43 Podcast features Sean Hunter, a retired Army National Guard officer and the founding principal of Valor Classical Academy in Kuna, Idaho. The conversation explores the philosophy of classical education, its role in shaping virtuous citizens, and the significance of honoring American values through education. Sean also shares his personal transition from the military to becoming a leader in education, highlighting how classical schools emphasize virtue, tradition, and civic responsibility. The discussion also honors the heroic story of John Borbonus, a Boise native who made the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq, inspiring the academy’s mission.

The Future of Classical Education, and The Military Veteran Leading It: Sean Hunter (POD#065)
Mission43
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a ...

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Kelly Cottle, a South African native, former collegiate swimmer, military spouse, and passionate advocate for veterans and their families. Kelly shares her unique journey from immigrating to the U.S. to becoming a dedicated social worker supporting military communities. She opens up about meeting her husband, a combat-wounded Marine, just months after his injury, and navigating the challenges of military life, caregiving, and personal growth. Kelly discusses her work with Mission43 where she is focused on supporting veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders (SUD). This conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of community, communication, and finding purpose through adversity.

Whether you’re a military spouse, veteran, or someone passionate about mental health advocacy, Kelly’s story is sure to motivate you.

Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)

Strength Beyond the Finish Line: Endurance, Purpose, and Why Idaho with Tri Town Boise (#070)

Strength Beyond the Finish Line: Endurance, Purpose, and Why Idaho with Tri Town Boise (#070)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, hosts Dan McGurkin and Chad Rohr sit down with Antonio Gonzalez (owner) and Travis Wood (head coach) of Tri Town Bicycles, Idaho’s premier multisport and endurance training hub. Together, they dive into the launch of the CAF & Mission43 Multisport Team, a new program for veterans, military spouses, and CAF athletes to train for triathlons, build endurance, and discover community through shared challenge.

They explore the powerful connection between military transition and endurance training. The discipline required to realize success and the uncertainty, resilience, and need for a supportive community are just a few of the shared characteristics. Antonio and Travis also share why access to Idaho’s outdoors, terrain, and tight-knit community make it an ideal place to learn, train, and compete as a multisport athlete.

Whether you’re training for your first triathlon or want to level up your endurance performance, this conversation highlights why Idaho’s unmatched access to outdoor adventure and its supportive community make the Multisport Team the perfect opportunity for you!

Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse Director and Army Veteran: Andy Johnson (POD#069)

Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse Director and Army Veteran: Andy Johnson (POD#069)

In this episode of the Mission43 podcast, host Dan McGurkin speaks with Andy Johnson, the new Director of the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse, about finding purpose after military service. The Fieldhouse is a central space fostering connection and personal development for veterans, military spouses, and adaptive athletes (through the Challenged Athletes Foundation). Both Dan and Andy reflect on their transitions from military careers to civilian life, sharing the challenges, growth, and importance of community, family, and a life of continued service. Listen as they explore how Mission43 and the Fieldhouse provide veterans and military spouses with meaningful ways to reconnect, grow, and continue serving in new capacities.

Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan McGurkin (POD#068)

Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan McGurkin (POD#068)

In this short episode, we’re honored to hear from Dan McGurkin, the new Director and podcast host at Mission43, as he shares his journey, vision, and commitment to empowering veterans, service members, and their spouses. From his Idaho roots to his 13+ years of service is the US Marine Corps, Dan is a mission-driven individual who brings insight, purpose, and passion to the table. Listen in as Dan introduces himself, discusses his background and passion for helping veterans and military spouses, and previews his vision for Mission43. Be sure to subscribe, like, and hit the bell icon so you don’t miss future episodes of the Mission43 Podcast. Dan has planned some very exciting episodes for 2026!

Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: Matt Sheftic (POD#067)

Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: Matt Sheftic (POD#067)

In this powerful episode, we sit down with retired Army officer and former Division 1 basketball player Matt Sheftic to explore his unique journey from the basketball court to the battlefield. Matt shares how sports shaped his leadership values, how personal tragedy redefined his purpose, and how a combat mission in Iraq solidified his commitment to service. Now transitioning into civilian life, Matt discusses the challenges of finding purpose beyond the uniform and how the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship program gave him a new team, a new mission, and a new sense of belonging.

Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing Leader: Charis Mix (POD#066)

Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing Leader: Charis Mix (POD#066)

Charis is a military spouse, Mission43 Leaders Fellow, Mission43 PMP graduate, and a dedicated mother who is preparing to reenter the labor market after supporting her family on the home front for the past few years. Listen in as she describes her experiences of living life on active duty and then making the transition back to civilian life here in Idaho.

The Future of Classical Education, and The Military Veteran Leading It: Sean Hunter (POD#065)

The Future of Classical Education, and The Military Veteran Leading It: Sean Hunter (POD#065)

This episode of the Mission43 Podcast features Sean Hunter, a retired Army National Guard officer and the founding principal of Valor Classical Academy in Kuna, Idaho. The conversation explores the philosophy of classical education, its role in shaping virtuous citizens, and the significance of honoring American values through education. Sean also shares his personal transition from the military to becoming a leader in education, highlighting how classical schools emphasize virtue, tradition, and civic responsibility. The discussion also honors the heroic story of John Borbonus, a Boise native who made the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq, inspiring the academy’s mission.

Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)

Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Kelly Cottle, a South African native, former collegiate swimmer, military spouse, and passionate advocate for veterans and their families. Kelly shares her unique journey from immigrating to the U.S. to becoming a dedicated social worker supporting military communities. She opens up about meeting her husband, a combat-wounded Marine, just months after his injury, and navigating the challenges of military life, caregiving, and personal growth. Kelly discusses her work with Mission43 where she is focused on supporting veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders (SUD). This conversation offers valuable insights into the importance of community, communication, and finding purpose through adversity.

Whether you’re a military spouse, veteran, or someone passionate about mental health advocacy, Kelly’s story is sure to motivate you.

Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)

Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)

Join us on this inspiring episode of the Mission43 Podcast as we welcome our newest team member, former Army Ranger Dustin Alger! Dustin’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. A veteran of the 75th Ranger Regiment with multiple combat deployments under his belt, Dustin faced the tough challenges of transitioning to civilian life. But through an unexpected turn, he discovered the healing power of fly fishing—a therapy that not only helped him but ignited a passion to assist fellow veterans battling PTSD. Dive into this episode to hear how Dustin turned his personal journey into a mission to uplift others, the mentorship that shaped his path, and how Mission43 continues to empower military members and their families as they navigate life in Idaho after the military.

A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)

A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)

In this episode of the Mission43 podcast, former Marine and cybersecurity entrepreneur James McCarter shares his inspiring journey from military service to founding his own company, Shadowscape. James opens up about the challenges veterans often face when transitioning to civilian life, including finding purpose, managing lingering anger, and carving out a meaningful career outside of the military. James describes his path into the cybersecurity industry, the obstacles he’s overcome as a startup founder, and the grit required to build a business from the ground up. James also speaks to the value of community, describing how he initially approached Mission43 with skepticism but ultimately found it to be a supportive network for veterans and entrepreneurship. He also discusses the importance of family and quality time, while sharing hard-earned wisdom on resilience, ambition, and defining success on one’s own terms.

From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)

From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we talk with Nick Johnson, an Army veteran, Military Spouse, and member of the Mission43 Employment team. Nick shares stories from his personal life including his journey of joining the Army Airborne and the struggles he’s faced (and overcame) while transitioning back to civilian life. Nick opens up about his mental health struggles and how counseling and support networks played a key role in his recovery. The discussion highlights Mission43’s holistic approach to veteran support, focusing on employment, education, and building strong networks. Nick is also passionate about connecting veterans and military spouses with Idaho employers, helping them navigate the job market and building successful lives in Idaho after the military. Listen in and learn some valuable lessons from Nick’s jump back into civilian life.

Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military: Stephanie Toomey-Johnson (POD#059)

Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military

In this episode of the Mission43 podcast, we sit down with Stephanie Toomey-Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran, military spouse, mother, and corporate professional. Listen in as Stephanie shares her journey from serving eight years in the Marine Corps, including combat deployments to Iraq, to transitioning into civilian life where she pursued a career in fitness and later corporate banking. She reflects on the challenges of being a single mother in the military and the difficulties of maintaining family relationships during deployments. After leaving the Marines, Stephanie earned both a bachelor's and an MBA while raising her son. She met her husband, Nick, who was in the National Guard, and the couple eventually moved to Alaska where they grew their family. Now they call Idaho home, and Stephanie credits Mission43 for helping her and her family transition smoothly. Her parenting philosophy is rooted in encouraging her children to take risks and learn through experience, much like she did in the military, and she emphasizes the importance of not letting others define your limits.

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

Meet our Host

Dan Nelson

Dan was a US Army Green Beret with multiple combat deployments. He is the recipient of the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and multiple other awards. After being injured in combat in Afghanistan (2017) he found Mission43. Dan fully credits the organization for his successful transition to life after the military.
(Email / LinkedIn)

Questions or comments?

We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

MORE M43 PODCASTS
Strength Beyond the Finish Line: Endurance, Purpose, and Why Idaho with Tri Town Boise (#070)
Strength Beyond the Finish Line: Endurance, Purpose, and Why Idaho with Tri Town Boise (#070)
Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse Director and Army Veteran: Andy Johnson (POD#069)
Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse Director and Army Veteran: Andy Johnson (POD#069)
Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan McGurkin (POD#068)
Introducing the new Mission43 Director: Dan McGurkin (POD#068)
Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: Matt Sheftic (POD#067)
Leadership, Loss, and Life After the Military: Matt Sheftic (POD#067)
Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing Leader: Charis Mix (POD#066)
Tips from a Military Spouse and Marketing Leader: Charis Mix (POD#066)
The Future of Classical Education, and The Military Veteran Leading It: Sean Hunter (POD#065)
The Future of Classical Education, and The Military Veteran Leading It: Sean Hunter (POD#065)
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)
Uniting Military Spouses and Becoming a Community Advocate: Kelly Cottle (POD#064)
Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)
Fly Fishing Guide and Mission43 Team Member: Dustin Alger (POD#063)
Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden (POD#062)
Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance: Isaac Belden (POD#062)
A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)
A Marines Mission in Business Ownership: James McCarter (POD#061)
From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)
From Airborne Soldier to Civilian Life: Nick Johnson (POD#060)
Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military: Stephanie Toomey-Johnson (POD#059)
Balancing Combat, Motherhood, & Life After the Military: Stephanie Toomey-Johnson (POD#059)
From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)
From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)
Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)
Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)
Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)
Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)
Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)
Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)
Find the Right Opportunities After Military Retirement: Justin Haynes (POD#054)
Find the Right Opportunities After Military Retirement: Justin Haynes (POD#054)
Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)
Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)
Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)
Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)
World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)
World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)
Road to Recovery: Brad Blair (POD#050)
Road to Recovery: Brad Blair (POD#050)
Deep Dive into HBOT: Davin Strang & Dr. Steve Wyman (POD#049)
Deep Dive into HBOT: Davin Strang & Dr. Steve Wyman (POD#049)
Build a Post-Military Plan: Chris and Joanne Collins (POD#048)
Build a Post-Military Plan: Chris and Joanne Collins (POD#048)
How to Stay Fit After the Military: Anna Woodring (POD#047)
How to Stay Fit After the Military: Anna Woodring (POD#047)
Work-Life Balance: Carson Spear (POD#046)
Work-Life Balance: Carson Spear (POD#046)
Finding a Pathway through Trauma: David Vobora (POD#045)
Finding a Pathway through Trauma: David Vobora (POD#045)
Boise Entrepreneur Seeks to Create Good: Malcolm Brown (POD#044)
Boise Entrepreneur Seeks to Create Good: Malcolm Brown (POD#044)
Idaho’s Military Spouse Community: Amy Gilbert (POD#043)
Idaho’s Military Spouse Community: Amy Gilbert (POD#043)
Serving Military Spouses: Kelly Kelly (POD#042)
Serving Military Spouses: Kelly Kelly (POD#042)
Betting on Yourself: Jade Chase (POD#041)
Betting on Yourself: Jade Chase (POD#041)

From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)

From Navy SEAL to CEO: Cole Petrie (POD#058)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, host Dan Nelson sits down with Cole Petrie, the newly appointed CEO of Higher Ground. Higher Ground is a nonprofit organization based in Sun Valley, Idaho, dedicated to supporting children and adults with developmental, cognitive, or physical disabilities. They also serve military veterans and first responders with visible and invisible disabilities. The secret to their success is outdoor recreational therapy to assist the healing process and unlock every individual's potential! Cole, a former Navy SEAL, shares his journey from military service to leading Higher Ground and enhancing the quality of life through therapeutic recreation and education.

Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)

Fast-Track Your Degree: Veterans' Pathway to Success with CWI (POD#057)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, Dan and Alison (Mission43's Education Director), sit down with Shannon Kerr and Heather Grayson from the College of Western Idaho (CWI) to discuss a new partnership aimed at supporting military veterans as they transition back to civilian life. This partnership offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Leadership and Management, primarily targeting E5 and above but open to all, including military spouses and civilians. The program leverages military leadership training, translating it into college credits, and allows veterans to complete the degree in as few as five classes (15 credits). With flexible learning options, dedicated support staff, and full scholarships available, the program is designed to be accessible and cost-effective, preserving GI Bill benefits for future use. CWI's community-oriented approach ensures personalized support and strong emotional and social backing for veterans. This initiative provides a clear pathway to higher education and better job opportunities!

Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)

Army PT to Adaptive Sports Advocate: Dr. Heather Lopez (POD#056)

In this episode of the Mission43 Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Heather Lopez, a dynamic leader in physical therapy, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow, and the director of the Challenge Athletes Foundation (CAF) - Idaho. Dr. Lopez shares her journey from growing up in a small town in Michigan, to serving as an Army physical therapist, to transitioning out of the Army and into a civilian career. Learn about her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how she now leads CAF - Idaho as they support adaptive athletes and veterans. Discover the powerful synergy between Mission43 and CAF - Idaho and how they work together to create a community of support and resilience. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with personal stories and professional insights.

Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)

Crafting Your Own Narrative: Michele Bradfield (POD#055)

Join us for episode #055 of the Mission43 Podcast as we dive into a compelling conversation with Michele Bradfield, a military spouse and Mission43 Leaders Fellow whose transition story is as inspiring as it is instructive. Michele shares her experiences navigating the complexities of life after the military, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of redefining her identity and career in civilian life. Throughout the episode, Michele opens up about the power of positivity, the importance of community, and her strategic use of therapy and personal reflection to find her path forward. Whether you're a veteran, a military family member, or anyone facing significant life changes, Michele's story offers valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and crafting your own narrative. Tune in to discover how embracing your journey can lead to profound personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.

Find the Right Opportunities After Military Retirement: Justin Haynes (POD#054)

Find the Right Opportunities after Military Retirement

Episode #054 of the Mission43 Podcast features Justin Haynes, a retired Colonel who enjoyed a successful, 29-year career in the United States Army. If Justin had a theme for his transition back to civilian life it would be, “with every change there is opportunity.” However, the RIGHT opportunities must lead to improved wellness and align with his passions in life. Having spent his youth exploring the mountains of Valley County, Justin came back to Idaho where an abundance of outdoor opportunities exist. He also found community and inspiration in the like-minded members of Mission43 and the Leaders Fellowship. Listen in as he discusses the emotional roller coaster of military transition, including fears and excitement about the future and how a passion for wildlife conservation and quality family time fuel his soul.

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE

Meet our Host

Dan Nelson

Dan was a US Army Green Beret with multiple combat deployments. He is the recipient of the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and multiple other awards. After being injured in combat in Afghanistan (2017) he found Mission43. Dan fully credits the organization for his successful transition to life after the military.
(Email / LinkedIn)

Questions or comments?

We'd love to hear them! Send us an email at podcast@mission43.org

Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)

Forging a Life Filled with Purpose: Tyler Merryman (POD#053)

In this inspiring episode #053 of the Mission43 Podcast, we delve into the remarkable story of Tyler Merryman, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow and an Air Force veteran whose battle with cancer and transition from military to civilian life unfolds a story of unwavering positivity and purpose. Facing a medical retirement just shy of a 20-year career, Tyler's journey is a testament to the power of resilience. His passion for teaching welding and advocating for financial peace allowed him to transition from a life of military service to one of community service. Listen in as Tyler shares invaluable insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of community, and the pursuit of a fulfilling post-service lifestyle. Join us as we explore Tyler's inspiring path from battle to the anvil…where he forges a new legacy of hope, strength, and generosity.

Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)

Military Leadership and Motherhood: Beth Sumner (POD#052)

In episode #052, we sit down with Beth Sumner, a Mission43 Leaders Fellow, and Mission43 PMP Certification Course graduate. From her days as a cadet at the US Air Force Academy to her distinguished career serving on active duty and in the guard, Beth's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She recently retired as Colonel, and her time spent in squadron and group command positions shaped her perspective and leadership style. But beyond her professional accomplishments, Beth cherishes her roles as a wife and mother above all else. Join us as Beth shares her experiences, from meeting her husband during their active-duty days at Mountain Home Air Force Base to navigating the challenges of motherhood, including a harrowing brush with death during their time in Alaska, where they welcomed twins into the world. Beth's transition from military service to civilian life wasn't without its struggles. Wrestling with her identity after leaving the military, she found support from her mother and fellow spouses’ groups on base.  Today, Beth's passion for adventure knows no bounds as she explores the great outdoors of Idaho through running, hiking, and mountain biking. Her journey exemplifies the resilience and determination of military veterans and military spouses who are transitioning to civilian life.

World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)

World-Class Facilities at The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse: Travis Rolstad (POD#051)

The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse is a world-class, 7-acre multipurpose campus located in Boise, Idaho. It features a gym, pool, climbing walls, living quarters, hyperbaric treatment center, and much more. Keeping the campus running so it can serve the members of Mission43 and the Challenged Athletes Foundation of Idaho is a big job! Enter Travis Rolstad, a Mission43 member and 20-year veteran of the US Air Force Civil Engineering squadron. Travis has a vast knowledge of maintaining some of our nation’s most important infrastructure assets and his role as the Campus and Facilities Manager will be vital to ensuring the mission of the Fieldhouse never stops. Listen in as Travis talks about connecting with Mission43 prior to retirement, and how that led to a smooth transition back to civilian life and into his current role at the Fieldhouse.

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