In 2004, shortly after the start of the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, a Humvee driven by Army combat engineer Joel Hunt was hit by a roadside bomb in the city of Tikrit. The blast rattled Hunt and caused a brain injury that has left lingering effects, such as speech impairment, double vision and numbness in his left leg.
He’s struggled at times to regain his footing and find his place in society.
For that reason, Hunt is reaching out to other Veterans who are also confronting health-related challenges, namely PTSD and traumatic brain injury. He’s the executive director of Military Broadcast Radio (MBR), a podcast-hosting web platform that specializes in “giving Veterans a voice” by allowing them to host talk and music shows.
`This is the best rehabilitation’
In Hunt’s view, the shows serve as form of therapy for the Veterans who play music and lead conversations on topics of interest to the Veteran community. Nearly 13 shows now air on MBR, including two produced by Hunt: “The Revel Experience” and “The Blaque Surga Show.” These podcasts provide their audiences with music of different genres, the latest world and entertainment news and helpful tips on the everyday life of Veterans, active-duty personnel and civilians.
“The truth is the only way you’re going to stop suicide is if you bring Veterans to Veterans to talk to each other, because some of the guys that we battled and deployed with don’t have families,” Hunt said. “Maybe their mom passed away, maybe their dad passed away. Unfortunately, not everybody likes to post their whole life on Facebook. So if you don’t get to know the Veteran, and you don’t know what’s going on in their life, and they commit suicide, it’s because we didn’t do enough to reach out before we got to that point. I believe that with a microphone and sharing their stories and talking to other Veterans and being inspired by stories, I honestly think this is the best rehabilitation.”
Brandon Stokley, who played 15 seasons in the NFL for five teams as a wide receiver, is a spokesperson for Military Broadcast Radio.
“I support the ultimate vision of putting our military Veterans to work from home as a DJ,” he said on MBR’s website. “Music is very therapeutic and can be healing. Having one DJ will give them a purpose for others and themselves. I am proud to be a spokesperson for a station, such as MBR, that is `Giving Veterans a Voice.’”
Jim Butler first launched Military Broadcast Radio in 2015 while serving in the Air Force. After returning from the paralympics in 2015, he met up with Butler, inquired about hosting his own podcast and received the go-ahead. He had graduated with honors from the Colorado Media School in Denver and was familiar with the broadcasting industry.
Hunt took over the station in 2018 and established it as a non-profit organization. He’s now the executive director of Military Broadcast Radio.
“I said if I’m going to take it over, I’m going to create it as a non-profit,” Hunt said. “I don’t just want to be a radio station. I want to create a program that helps Veterans buy the equipment so they can be DJs and host talk shows from the comfort of their house. I gave [MBR] the tagline `Giving Veterans a Voice’ because I believe that those who fought for this country should be those that get that voice. There are so many programs out there that want to help Veterans. MBR does its part to get the word out there even more. I have future visions for this nonprofit.”
Veterans are trained to host their own podcasts
Hunt and his staff teach the hosts how to use the equipment, such as the live webinar platform StreamYard, and explain how to run a show from their desktop, iPhone and mixer. After a few months of training, Veterans are ready to host their own podcast. Military Broadcast Radio has a studio in downtown Denver that the hosts can also access to broadcast their shows if they prefer.
Marine Veteran Travis Partington hosts “Oscar Mike Radio,” which airs on MBR and focuses on real-life stories of active-duty military and Veterans. He has nothing but praise for how Hunt manages the station.
“The best thing about Military Broadcast Radio is a host can be new or experienced and have a place on the network,” Partington said. “Joel can get you started easily. If you have more experience like me, he lets me be me and will make suggestions from time to time to improve.
“What I have learned from Joel being on Military Broadcast Radio is how much effort it takes to manage multiple hosts and systems all at the same time,” he added. “As a host, I only have my show to worry about. But Joel has to make sure everyone’s show is set and aligns to that standard he has for Military Broadcast Radio. This has opened my eyes to a whole different side of things, and I have looked for ways for Oscar Mike Radio better to not make more work for Joel. All in all, it has been a positive experience, and I would encourage anyone to check out MBR’s amazing list of Veteran hosts and shows!”
In addition to MBR’s web site, the shows air on social media, including Facebook and Twitter (X). Military Broadcast Radio also has a phone app so listeners can follow the stream. Hunt instructs his hosts to air at least one of the public service announcements (PSAs) produced by VA’s radio outreach program during their show. Those PSAs are aimed at educating Veterans on important programs, services and benefits.
“A lot of Veterans are out there who we don’t think might want to do a podcast,” Hunt said. “They’re homeless or they live in a low-budget apartment and can hear the person in the other room. It’s like cardboard walls. So I’m just trying to give every Veteran that opportunity to be heard because you never know. They could be that one Veteran who really speaks to people.”
How to sign up for free training or to host a show on Military Broadcast Radio
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
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I’m interested
On the MBR YouTube page, Lesson 1
https://youtu.be/qKiX0cy6J88?si=z9v_a_oy0rS1D-lt
Do this, and I’ll see you in 4 weeks
I am a veteran with PTSD and i would love to give veterans a voice. My father inlaw is a vietnam vewt and is dealing with the things that come with fighting in the jungles and havcing agent orange dumped over them. He has the louie body pro tien in his body from that carsinagen. I would like to bring this to the attention of the nation. Kids now a days know nothing about sacrifice and dedication and the honor that it takes to be a soldier. We see our buddies die in front of us and there is nothing that we can do about it. You never know who is going to be at the card table the next night after patrols. I would love to take this class. Sign me up.
Seems at first you erased my comments. Was it my remark about ignoring the oath disgracers who have already hijacked many of the sites to make outrageous remarks so all veterans seem disgraceful – disloyal by backing organgehead and his buddy putin? While the majority of honorable veterans being thought of as being like them, because they are remaining silent? At 78 an willing to learn to help in creating a balance so sign me up:)
The veterans who still honor their oath need to speak out more, not let the, loud oath disgracers fill the airwaves making all Veterans look disloyal, we are not! And many of these online sites have already been hijacked by the bully boys for putin and organgehead. We need more veteran voices.
Would like to help out some how
Let’s go let’s start supporting one another!
https://calendly.com/mbrradio/15min
This is peer-to-peer helping, not a class, not a webinar. We have one teacher. Please be patient. Remember, it’s at no cost to you. Joel Hunt is giving up his free time to do this to give all Veterans the opportunity to succeed.
Whoever came up with this idea should get a pat on the back! I would like more information about podcast training please.
I asked for the same thing. Typical VA old new no sign up
Once the vet is trained, will they be able to have whatever topic of podcast they want, or do they have to work with your military broadcast network?
They can do whatever they want. On our network the topic is FREEDOM
Just the fact the the statement the VA use such as “VA is not responsible the content of non-VA websites read the terms and conditions for privacy Etc. makes me Leary and not even think about joining these programs such as MBR.
Jesse,
I understand your concern. The only scam about this program is that we’re not a f500 company. I’m a veteran passionate about teaching and motivating, but I need help getting a teaching job due to grammar lol. Ask any of my hosts currently here. You will have fun, but it will be hard work:)
I will answer the phone, and email may take a while, but you’re essential to me.
Curious – I was a Photojournalist/Broadcast journalist in the army for 23 years. If I enroll in this program, is an augmentation of my previous knowledge to new tech that I was Not trianed with/for? I do not have my own equipment (other than a camera) I would not want to take up a space for someone else if my current skills are adequate to do this program. I’d like to get involved but don’t want to deprive someone else an opportunity to learn to be a podcaster.
Outstanding, no information on sign up, typical VA
Wanting to become a podcaster. When is the next training?
I’d love to get into this podcasting class, I’ve tried emailing a couple times, when does the next session start?
Sounds great. I am interested in training. I am an old guy and its about time that Vets have a chance to be heard.
I would like to know more information about how to become a radio podcast
I would like to see the training offered at overseas locations as well. The military experience is a world wide experience after all.
I think this Podcast is just what I need to help get the word out about all of the services and opportunities available for our comrades who are veterans. I would love to be a part of the class. Please count me in.
Hello, I am a veteran of the U.S. Air Force who served from 1978-1983. I am very interested in the Podcast training. I would love to assist in getting the word to other veterans about all of the great services available.
Please advise ASAP…
This is a great idea! I’m a retired, disabled Navy vet. It’s very hard to reach out for help, especially since I didn’t do time in Iraq or Afghanistan. I still have my arms and legs and can walk with a cane. But I’d like to do research on this. I never read these emails lol, glad I did.
How long is the training and is there a place in St. Louis Moi would like to learn podcast for spreading Good news about the Bible
This is a great way of giving back, many veterans are unaware of services and resources that assist. I am deeply interested and would love to take part.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
This is very inspiring! Thank you!
I’m would like to help other veterans who have been going through like I have been going through, amputation, depression, health, and financial issues
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Holy cows! This is great. I wish to do this .
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
How can I apply for this training?
Hector, please scroll down to the bottom of that article. There is some contact information listed there.
Would love to get the train
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I went to the MBR website, and nowhere did I see a link for vets to learn anything about podcasts. There was a sweet donate button, but nothing about how to receive.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I am totally interested in taking this course! I am a music production student and I already have all the required programs and equipment.
I am very interested in the Podcast Training. I want to learn more about this because I work with Veterans with SBE’s and their Spouses that are qualified.
I think other Veterans will be interested once they find out about it. I was not aware of the Broadcasts mentioned. I look forward to listening in; even though I am quite busy at the moment.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
This is very interesting to me as I had no idea the tthis existed. I might have been, or am, living in a cave, self imposed of course. Thank you for spreading the word.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I have been wanting to start a podcast for a while now, but I’m not sure if I have all of the equipment to get started. I would love if someone could contact me and talk me through the podcast steps.
Is this available for Cold War Veterans
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would like be trained in how to do a podcast.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I’m very serious about this
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I am so interested in doing my own podcast
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Hello
My name is Joseph P. Carlino. I served from 1964-1967. I’m a Vietnam era vet. I didn’t see combat but was ready willing and able had they deployed me.
Instead I was stationed in Berlin Germany during the wall crisis. There was always the threat of war with Russia at the time.
In addition I severed my country working at the VA as a psychotherapist. I’ve listened to many horrific combat stories facilitating groups of veterans and families. I worked for the VA for 22 years in Behavioral Health.
I currently have a small online practice and accept only one insurance Excellus blue.
I would love to learn how to podcast. I don’t have good technical skills but willing to learn.
I have a good speaking voice and miss working with veterans.
You can learn more about me on psychology today under Geneva, NY 14456
How do I go about gearing the training? I’m really interested in starting a Podcast if I can afford it.
Thanks
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I want to sign up for training
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
So how and where do we sign up for this training again?
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I am interested in learning about podcasts,
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
When is the podcast training, , and how much does it cost.
Interested in training to host a podcsst
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
This looks interesting. I have written three Old Testament novels. You can say I have a leg up from being in combat. Gideon The Sound and The Glory, David God’s Chosen Crucible and Second David Trials and Tribulations. I do have a tale to tell. They are on Amazon.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
MORE
INFORMATION?
THIS SOUNDS GREAT !
.
I have an interest in participating in this program. Regular Army Signal. Old 26Q14. I would love some help on this bucket list item…to get back on the air. There IS a studio available in Spencer Ia. , but they are wanting $65.00 + hr. rental, to RECORD your podcast. Broadcasting it, may be a different story. This page has been saved for further reference, and to do the paperwork later.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
What location is this training held?
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Had trouble contacting the author using his eMail. It’s coming up as bogus.
There is a contact form also.
I am a Vet and an artist. I would like to have pad cast to teach art to others It has helped me tremendously. Can you help me?
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would love to learn to host a podcast
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would love to learn how to host a podcast
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Very interested in learning.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would be interested in a DJ music show. I was a DJ in Seattle back in the 1st half of the 80’s. This is something I would feel comfortable trying on MBR. I have a music room with acoustic tiles, and my desktop is in that room as well. I would just need to know what I have to get to launch.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
This sounds very interesting! I would like to attend this training and eventually host my own podcast.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would love to learn how to do this I walk in wanted to start a podcast
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
Thanks for the networking opportunity..
How do you join the podcast training.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I am glad this opportunity exists for Veterans. We are a unique group of Citizens, united by our brotherhood in Arms. We can talk to each other without judgment or malice.
I love this so much. I feel like I have so much to say but no one who can really relate to me. This is powerful and much needed in such a cruel world. Keep doing what you are doing.
I would like to know more about this.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
very interested but I am an 80 year old disabled Vietnam Veteran and swamped since I got out of the ICU ath the local Grand Junction VA Hospital, Thank you and Semper Fi. My only tel line is [Editor’s note: please do not leave your contact information in comments.]
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would love to learn how to create a podcast. Hopefully this will help with my mental health
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I have a voice and I’m a professional speaker Sid say. Authentic
What do I need to do in order to get this training?
This is my calling ????❤
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I would like to discuss this project with someone. I am a veteran from 1960-1963. My objective is to help veteran that need help. I am also a member dav.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I want training to podcast.
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
I’d like to know more on how
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.
When is this podcast trainings. Thank you
Those interested in free training or in hosting a show on Military Broadcast Radio can contact the station or email Joel Hunt directly at manager@mbradio.us.