Veterans of the North Podcast

A Monthly Podcast Presented by the DAV of Minnesota

Welcome to Veterans of the North, a DAV of Minnesota podcast where we honor and serve disabled veterans and their families. Each month we will be discussing timely topics related to Veterans and Veteran Benefits. Got questions or stories to share? We’d love to hear from you.

Veterans of the North Audio Podcast Links
Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcast
Spotify
Spotify
iHeartRadio
iHeart Radio
Castbox
Castbox
Amazon Music
Amazon Music
Veterans of the North Video Podcast Links
Pocket Casts
Pocket Casts
You Tube
You Tube

Veterans Benefits

Host Trent sits down with DAV Minnesota service officer Tony and VA Service Officer Charles for an essential conversation on VA survivor benefits—centered on Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and how veterans can protect their loved ones long after service. The episode clearly explains DIC’s two qualification paths: the 10-year 100% rule or death from a service-connected condition. It shares powerful real-life stories of amending death certificates to include contributing factors—like back surgery leading to a fatal fall or hearing loss affecting medical care—to secure benefits. The hosts emphasize motivating veterans to act with the message, “This isn’t for you anymore—it’s for your spouse and kids.” They highlight underused benefits including Individual Unemployability (IU), secondary conditions, and Chapter 35 education for dependents, while offering pro tips: add dependents within one year, bring your spouse to appointments, and always use free VSO help.

Veterans of the North at the National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic

Join the “Veterans of the North” podcast, recorded live from Iowa City during the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and VA National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic. In this uplifting episode, the host connects with inspiring veterans from across the country to share their experiences at this transformative event. A proud sponsor, the DAV Minnesota supports this clinic, now in its fourth year, fostering camaraderie, socialization, and personal growth among participants.

Healing Heroes at Magnus Veterans Foundation: Whole-Person Care and the Fight Against Veteran Suicide

In this episode of Veterans of the North, host Trent Dilks, at the Magnus Veterans Wellness Campus in Dayton, Minnesota, discusses veteran suicide prevention with Dr. Sean Alderman, a 31-year Army veteran and founder of the Magnus Veterans Foundation. They explore the foundation’s holistic approach to care—addressing mind, body, heart, and spirit—offered free to veterans and families. Chris LaMotte, a Desert Storm veteran, shares his journey from addiction and trauma to hope, now helping others at Magnus. The episode emphasizes community, recognizing crisis signs, and actionable support through membership, volunteering, or donating at magnusveteransfoundation.org.

Veteran Suicide Prevention, SAFE Training, and Community Outreach

In this episode of “Veterans of the North,” host Trent Dilks sits down with Andrea Perry and Julia Pawlenty from the VA’s Veterans Suicide Prevention team at the DAV convention. They dive into the ongoing crisis, sharing insights on community outreach, SAFE training, crisis intervention, and practical steps to support veterans at risk. From identifying warning signs and reducing access to lethal means to normalizing conversations about mental health, this discussion highlights actionable ways to save lives and build stronger support networks. Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or community ally, learn how to make a difference. Resources mentioned: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.

Veterans of the North: Transition Tales and Bourbon Bonds (Part 2)

This is Part 2 of our conversation with Green Beret Mark Nutsch on Veterans of the North. Mark shares his journey from 12 years of active duty and four combat deployments to building a life—and a business—after service. Hear about his work as a defense contractor in Iraq and Afghanistan, launching a craft bourbon brand with fellow veterans, and leading protective details for world leaders. Mark also reflects on humanitarian missions, the lasting bonds with allies, and the story behind the Hollywood film 12 Strong. Join us for a conversation on resilience, camaraderie, and giving back.

Honoring the Legacy – 100 Years of DAV Minnesota (Part 1)

DAV Winter Sports Clinic

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 1 WWII Marine Corps Veteran Paul Wojahn

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 2 Korean War Veteran George “Skip” Ebenhoe

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 3 Vietnam Veteran Van Karg

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 4 Cold War Veteran Greg Peterson

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 5 Post 9/11 Veteran Laurie Solberg

Veterans of the North: A Veterans Day Tribute: Episode 6 Gulf War Veteran John Baker

DAV Outdoors Segment 2

DAV Outdoors Segment 3

Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Segment 1

Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Segment 2

Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Segment 3

VA Home Loans – Pre Buying

VA Home Loans – The Buying Process

Using your VA Loan Again