Shows
VetTunes PodcastColonel Darrin Brightmon: From Combat Zones to Stage Lights: How a Marine Officer Shocked Everyone as a Metal MusicianIn this episode of the VetTunes podcast, host Mike Corrado interviews Darrin Brightmon, a retired Marine Colonel and musician. They discuss Darrin's journey from military service to pursuing a music career, his experiences in the metal band Forced Hammer, and the therapeutic role of music in his life. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of performing live, the metal scene in San Diego, and the importance of mental health awareness among veterans. Darrin shares insights on music production, upcoming shows, and the evolution of his musical style.TakeawaysDarrin started playing guitar at 17 or 18...
2026-02-1350 minVetTunes PodcastAaron Justice: From Darkness to Light: A Veteran's Journey Through Music, and FaithIn this episode of the VetTunes Podcast, host and veteran Mike Corrado sits down with US Army veteran artist Aaron Justice who shares his journey from military service to becoming a contemporary Christian artist. He discusses the importance of family support, the healing power of music, and his experiences in songwriting. Aaron reflects on his influences, his role as a worship leader, and the significance of music in the lives of veterans. The conversation highlights the therapeutic nature of music and its ability to foster hope and connection in challenging times.TakeawaysAaron Justice is...
2026-02-0642 minVetTunes PodcastVTPC S2 Ep1: Hope MacGregor: Artist, Storyteller, and Army Aviation VeteranJoin us on the VetTunes podcast as host Mike Corrado sits down with Hope MacGregor, an Army veteran and accomplished singer-songwriter. Discover Hope's inspiring journey from West Point graduate and Army helicopter pilot to a thriving music career. In this episode, Hope shares her experiences in the military, her passion for music, and the stories behind her albums, including the latest release, "Sloppy Seconds." Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, personal stories, and Hope's unique musical journey.00:00:00 Introduction to Hope MacGregor00:03:00 Journey to West Point00:09:00 Military Service and Deployment
2026-01-251h 00
VetTunes PodcastVetTunes Podcast Ep 15: Chris Turner - From Military to Music: Chris Turner's JourneySummaryIn this episode of the VetTunes podcast, host Mike Corrado sits down with Chris Turner, a United States Marine Corps veteran and singer-songwriter, shares his journey from military service to pursuing a career in music. He discusses the healing power of music, the importance of camaraderie among veterans, and the challenges of navigating the music industry in Nashville. Turner emphasizes the significance of songwriting as a form of expression and healing, while also addressing the impact of technology and AI on the music landscape. The conversation culminates in a live acoustic performance, showcasing Turner's talent and...
2025-11-071h 15VetTunes PodcastVetTunes Podcast Ep 14: Nick Comello-Drumming for Wounded VetsSummaryIn this episode of the VetTunes podcast, Mike Corrado interviews Nick Comella, an active-duty Navy member who is preparing to drum for 24 hours straight to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. Nick shares his journey in the Navy, his experiences in Guam, and how music has played a significant role in his life. He discusses his influences as a drummer, the preparation for the drumathon, and the importance of giving back to veterans. The conversation highlights the healing power of music and the community's support for veterans.Takeaways-Nick Comella is...
2025-10-3046 minVetTunes PodcastVetTunes Podcast Ep 13: Healing Through Song: The Freedom Sings Journey Music as MedicineSummaryThe conversation explores the profound impact of music and songwriting on veterans' lives through the lens of Freedom Sings USA. Don Goodman shares his journey as a songwriter and the healing power of music, while Jimmy Miller discusses his military experience and the importance of community. Together, they highlight how songwriting can serve as a therapeutic outlet for veterans, helping them process their experiences and connect with others. The discussion emphasizes the mission of Freedom Sings USA to provide a supportive environment for veterans to share their stories and create music, ultimately fostering healing and camaraderie.
2025-10-201h 02VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 12: Army Veteran & Artist - Nikki HollandIn this episode of the Vet Tunes podcast, host Mike Corrado interviews Nikki Holland, an American singer-songwriter and Army veteran. They discuss Nikki's journey from military service to becoming a prominent figure in the music scene, her commitment to social causes, and her experiences performing at LGBTQ+ events. Nikki shares insights into her creative process, her participation in the Dinah Shore festival, and her upcoming music releases. The conversation highlights the importance of community, identity, and the power of music in connecting with others.Takeaways-Nikki Holland blends reggae, pop, and indie influences in her...
2025-10-0939 min
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 11. Marine Officer, Pro Boxer & Musician: Stephanie Simon's JourneyPlease subscribe to our channel and visit https://www.vettunespodcast.com for more stories on active duty military and veteran artists making waves in the music and entertainment field. SummaryIn this engaging conversation, retired Marine officer Mike Corrado sits down with Stephanie Simon a Marine officer, professional boxer, and musician. They explore her unique journey from a military upbringing to her experiences at the Naval Academy, the role of music in her life, and how she balances her boxing career with her military duties. Stephanie shares insights on the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the rigorous...
2025-09-191h 06VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 10 - From Soldier to Screenwriter: The Journey of Cowboy JaxIn this engaging conversation, Cowboy Jax of N.VUE Productions shares his journey as a veteran turned filmmaker and musician. He discusses the mission of N.VUE Productions, which focuses on helping veterans transition into civilian life through creative storytelling and job opportunities in the entertainment industry. The discussion highlights the healing power of music, the importance of community, and the evolution of Jax's career, culminating in the creation of the song and film 'Everyday Heroes'. The conversation emphasizes the need for more representation of veterans in the arts and encourages veterans to embrace their creativity and seek out...
2025-09-111h 31
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 9 From Navy Band to Jazz Star: Jason Jackson's JourneyIn this conversation, Retired Marine and musician Mike Corrado interviews Jason Jackson, a talented jazz artist and former Navy musician. They discuss Jason's journey from military service to becoming a professional musician, his experiences in the Navy Band, and the challenges of navigating the music industry. Jason shares insights on radio promotion, the importance of persistence, and his musical influences. He also reflects on memorable performances and offers advice for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the need to use military time wisely and to be proactive in building a music career.Takeaways-Music has always been a part of Jason's life, starting...
2025-08-2958 minVetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 8 From Rock Star to Marine: Scotti Fraser's JourneyIn this conversation, Marine veteran and singer-songwriter Scotti Fraser shares his journey from a life of music to serving in the Marine Corps, and back to music as a means of healing and support for fellow veterans. He discusses the challenges he faced after returning from Iraq, including mental health struggles, and how music became a vital tool for recovery. Scotty emphasizes the importance of community and support among veterans, and his mission to use music to inspire hope and positivity. He also highlights his current projects, including the 'Never Surrender' tour, aimed at raising awareness for veteran issues...
2025-08-2859 min
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 7. From Soldier to Songwriter: Michael Allen's JourneyIn this episode, we feature Michael Allen, a Nashville-based Green Beret and musician. Michael's journey into the military was fueled by a desire for adventure and purpose, culminating in his ambition to become a Green Beret, specializing in unconventional warfare. His military experiences profoundly shape his songwriting, which he uses as a therapeutic outlet to connect with fellow veterans. Michael's confidence as a musician grew after his first performance, and he strongly believes in the power of face-to-face interactions in music. Fatherhood has further ignited his passion for his music career.TitlesFrom Soldier to...
2025-08-0844 minVetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 6 Shannon Book: The Intersection of Music and ServiceSummaryIn this engaging conversation, Shannon Book shares his journey as a singer-songwriter and his experiences in the military, particularly in the Navy as a corpsman. The discussion highlights the intersection of music and military life, the influence of early musical experiences, and the profound impact of mentors and teachers. Shannon reflects on his motivations for joining the Navy, the challenges faced during training, and the emotional weight of working in emergency medicine. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the bonds formed in the military and the lessons learned through both music and service. In this...
2025-08-011h 09VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep 5 Healing Through Music: Barbara Sim StorySummaryIn this conversation, Barbara Sim, a Marine veteran and talented singer-songwriter, shares her journey from military service to a nomadic lifestyle focused on music. She discusses her experiences in the Marine Corps, including her time in Iraq and her role in the Female Engagement Team. Barbara reflects on her transition to civilian life, the challenges she faced, and how music became a vital outlet for healing. She emphasizes the importance of community support and the therapeutic nature of music, while also detailing her songwriting process and future plans as a traveling musician.Takeaways
2025-07-2655 minVetTunes PodcastEp 4 From Soldier to Songstress: Christiana's JourneySummaryThis conversation explores the journey of Christiana, a military artist, who shares her experiences growing up in a faith-based family, joining the Army, and how her military service influenced her music career. The discussion highlights the importance of community support, the impact of programs like Operation Rising Star, and the challenges of navigating the music industry as a veteran artist. In this conversation, the speaker reflects on the importance of self-belief and the joy of connecting with audiences through music. They share their experiences from participating in Operation Rising Star, the opportunities it opened up, and memorable moments at...
2025-07-181h 45
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep. 2 Joshua BurpeeIn this second episode of VetTunes Podcast, Mike Corrado, sits down with Joshua Burpee—a musician in the Army National Guard and singer-songwriter for a conversation about music and service.
2025-07-0450 min
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep. 1 Sal GonzalezMarine veteran & singer-songwriter Sal Gonzalez shares how telling his story helped him overcome battlefield trauma—and how music gave that story a heartbeat. Hit play, get inspired, then tag a veteran whose voice the world needs to hear. Interview and acoustic performance of "Alabama Breathing"
2025-07-041h 20
VetTunes PodcastVTPC Ep. 3 Brian GrilliIn this episode of the VetTunes podcast, Brian Grilli shares his journey as a military veteran and musician. He discusses his early influences, the impact of his military service on his music career, and the personal growth he experienced through family life and challenges in the music industry. Grilli reflects on the importance of authenticity in music, the evolution of his sound, and the significance of his latest projects, including collaborations and new releases. The conversation highlights the unique stories of veteran artists and their contributions to the music world.veteran artists, music journey...
2025-07-041h 22