Welcome to THE CONNECTION

Episodes

32
July 12, 2024

Discovering Strength and Motivation Through Gina Rue's 50 MILE MARCH

Gina opens up about her transformative journey over the past year, sharing her aspirations to start her own business and become a motivational speaker. Her story is a testament to the power of personal growth and the importance of pursuing one's passion. What if your next career move wasn't about a job change but about discovering your true passion? In this heartfelt episode, we welcome Gina Rue, a packaging sales professional with dreams that stretch far beyond selling empty boxes.

Gina's path...
31
June 13, 2024

Byron Bode, Vietnam Veteran and his Connection to the Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Byron Bode, Vietnam Veteran, Helicopter Pilot
Medals and Awards: Army Commendation Medal awarded for Valor, Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, 1 Awarded for Valor
(and others not listed)

Byron Bode, a Vietnam veteran, shares his connection to the Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the helicopter he flew during the war. He discusses the unique circumstances that led to the memorial and the significance of the helicopter in his pers...
30
March 14, 2024

The Ripple Effect of a Simple Bench and Peter Rygg's Mission

As I sat with 17-year-old Peter Rygg on the newly placed bench under the shade of the old oak at our local church, I realized the true depth of his initiative, "Visit with a Veteran." This episode is a heartfelt exploration of Peter's journey to create spaces that bridge the gap between veterans and the community, inspired by his grandfathers' own service. We unpack his vision of benches as more than just resting spots—these are places where stories of bravery and sacrifice are shared, and where...
29
March 14, 2024

Alvin Hays A Sailor's Life in World War II (Part 2 of 2)

As the golden sun dips below the horizon, we're reminded that darkness often begets the most extraordinary tales of courage and fortitude. Today's episode is no exception, as we sit with a Navy SEAL veteran who walks us through the haunting labyrinth of war, sharing his raw experiences from the jungles of New Guinea to the stealthy night missions in the Philippines. These stories are not just about the clash of armies, but a deeper look into the human spirit, the disciplined focus on the task at...
28
March 14, 2024

Alvin Hays A Sailor's Life in World War II (Part 1 of 2)

They say the greatest lessons come from those who've lived through the unthinkable. That's why I am honored to share the microphone with Alvin Hayes, a World War II Navy veteran whose youthful enlistment at 17 opens a window to a bygone era of bravery and sacrifice. Together, we trace his father's World War I legacy and the influential tales of Pearl Harbor survivors that steered Al into the Navy's embrace. From the rustic simplicity of farm life to the stringent demands of military training, Al...