There’s a lot of fear and misinformation out there about the health and outcomes of Desert Storm veterans. In this episode, Kevin and John cut through the noise and dive into the actual statistics. What’s really happening with Gulf War veterans? What does the data say about illness, disability, and long-term health? Let’s have an honest, fact-based conversation—no fearmongering, just the truth.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans...
Jul 03, 2025•47 min•Ep. 203
Join us as we sit down with USAF retired veteran Bob Roth, a proud Desert Shield/Desert Storm servicemember. Bob shares powerful and unique stories from his time in the Air Force that you won’t want to miss. From life on duty to experiences that shaped him, this episode is full of insights and memories.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Lif...
Jun 26, 2025•49 min•Ep. 202
In this episode, we talk with Desert Storm Navy Veteran Karl Kuhlenschmidt, who served aboard the CV-66 USS America with VF-102 Diamondbacks from 1988 to 1992. Karl completed three tours—1989, 1990, and 1992—and shares what life was like at sea during the Gulf War. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/k...
Jun 19, 2025•50 min•Ep. 201
Join us on our 200 episode series with Eric Mooran. He was a Marine during Desert Storm. He will tell his story about his time during the war.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products*Here is my recommendations on what patches to get and what has helped me.Ice Wave - this helps with...
Jun 12, 2025•49 min
Why do some veterans receive disability compensation for drug or alcohol addiction? In this episode, we dive into the VA’s recognition of substance abuse as a secondary condition tied to service-connected trauma like PTSD, Gulf War illness, or chronic pain. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimo...
Jun 05, 2025•52 min•Ep. 199
In this episode, Kevin and John sit down with Army veteran Jeff Gracianette to talk about one of the most vital support missions of Desert Storm—providing clean drinking water. Jeff shares his experience purifying water in harsh desert conditions, the logistics behind keeping troops hydrated, and the often-overlooked challenges of sustaining life on the front lines.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the sh...
May 29, 2025•49 min•Ep. 198
What was life really like aboard ship during Desert Storm? In this episode, Kevin opens up about the harsh realities, daily stress, and moments that haunted sailors during the war. From long days at sea to the constant threat of attack, this is a powerful look at the Navy side of the Gulf War experience.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Li...
May 22, 2025•47 min•Ep. 197
In this special episode, Kevin is off, but co-hosts John and Wade take the mic to share their personal experiences as Army soldiers during the Gulf War. They reflect on the realities of deployment, returning home, and what it meant to serve. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products...
May 15, 2025•45 min•Ep. 196
In this episode, we sit down with Desert Storm veteran Tony Teddy to hear his powerful story about exposure to toxic chemicals during his service. Tony shares what he experienced firsthand, how it's impacted his health, and what other veterans should know.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/...
May 08, 2025•47 min•Ep. 195
In this episode, we dive into the challenges veterans face with addiction and highlight programs that are making a real difference. Kevin and John discuss personal stories, available support systems, and how Gulf War veterans can access the help they need. Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with insight and resources to empower healing and hope.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so w...
May 01, 2025•48 min•Ep. 194
Join us as Gulf War veteran Jeffrey Ford recounts his experiences during Desert Storm. From life in the field to unforgettable moments on the front lines, Jeffrey opens up about what it was really like.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products*Here is my recommendations on what patc...
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 193
In Part 3 of our series focused on improving veterans’ quality of life, we explore the powerful role chaplains and pastors play in helping Gulf War veterans. Kevin and John discuss how spiritual support, emotional guidance, and community connection can make a lasting impact. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Life Wave Patches: https://life...
Apr 17, 2025•48 min•Ep. 192
We're back with Part 2 of our discussion on how veterans with disabilities can improve their quality of life. Kevin and John dive deeper into practical strategies, resources, and real life experiences to help Gulf War veterans navigate daily challenges.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Famil...
Apr 10, 2025•48 min
In this episode, we discuss practical ways for veterans to improve their quality of life while managing disabilities. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudyThis study seeks to understand the long-term health impacts of Gulf War service on veterans and...
Apr 03, 2025•47 min•Ep. 190
In this episode, we break down the types of missiles used, the potential chemical agents they carried, and how these threats impacted Gulf War veterans.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudyThis study seeks to understand the long-term health impacts o...
Mar 27, 2025•50 min•Ep. 189
Gulf War Syndrome continues to impact veterans decades after Desert Storm. Tonight, we’ll discuss the long-term health effects, the latest research, and how it affects veterans and their families. Gulf War Syndrome a deadly legacy 1998: https://youtu.be/T_KtT_0MJJU?si=2VacA3F_SmE36WGuGet access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Stu...
Mar 20, 2025•44 min•Ep. 188
Missed the live session? No worries! Watch as we answer veterans' questions about VA healthcare, Gulf War experiences, benefits, and more. Kevin and John go over key topics that matter to those who served. Catch up now and see if we covered your question—if not, drop it in the comments for a future episode!Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬...
Mar 13, 2025•44 min
Renowned Gulf War Illness researcher Dr. Garth Nicolson joins us to share groundbreaking insights into the condition affecting so many veterans. We’ll discuss the latest research, potential causes, and what treatments are available.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites...
Mar 06, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 186
In this episode of Gulf War Side Effects, we sit down with Army Veteran SFC John Westlake’s Experience, to discuss the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. From its role on the battlefield to how it impacted troops on the ground, John shares firsthand insights from his time in service. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf ...
Feb 27, 2025•50 min•Ep. 185
Dr. Beatrice Golomb joins hosts Kevin, John, and Wade for a deep dive into the latest research on Gulf War Illness.Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudyThis study seeks to understand the long-term health impacts of Gulf War service on veterans and th...
Feb 20, 2025•39 min•Ep. 184
Mark Poole, National Guard l, 1st battalion 27th field artillery MLRS Desert Storm. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudy This study seeks to understand the long-term health impacts of Gulf War service on veterans and their families, focusing on re...
Feb 13, 2025•35 min•Ep. 183
Join us for an incredible conversation with Kenny Murphy, COL, US Army (Ret.) Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudy This study seeks to understand the long-term health impacts of Gulf War service on veterans and their families, focusing on reproduc...
Feb 06, 2025•44 min•Ep. 182
Join us as we talk with Navy veteran Steve Hedrick about his time aboard the USS Gunston Hall during the Gulf War. Hear firsthand accounts of life at sea, the challenges of deployment, and the role the ship played in Desert Storm. Steve shares stories that will resonate with fellow veterans and give insight into the experiences of those who served. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/...
Jan 30, 2025•43 min•Ep. 181
Join us as we speak with Paul Schwartz, who served with the United States Air Force in intelligence operations during Desert Storm. Stationed in Saudi Arabia alongside the B-52's of Jeddah, Paul shares his experiences, insights, and the vital role he played during the Gulf War. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Explore the Legacy Study: ...
Jan 23, 2025•47 min•Ep. 180
Join us as we talk with Darin Truax, a Desert Storm veteran and US Army Fire Support NCO (13F20). Serving with the 3/1 FA attached to A Co 3/35 AR, 1st Armored Division, Darin was part of the first units to spearhead into Iraq across the Wadi-Albeteen. Hear his firsthand account of the largest tank battle at the Battle of Al-Besya and his experiences in one of the Gulf War’s defining moments. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans ...
Jan 16, 2025•47 min•Ep. 179
It’s payback time! John and Wade settle their bet with Kevin after the Army-Navy game. Don’t miss the fun as the losers uphold their end of the deal in this entertaining episode! Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Explore the Legacy Study: Gulf War Veteran & Family Healthhttps://sites.bu.edu/legacystudy This study seeks to understand ...
Jan 09, 2025•34 min•Ep. 178
Join us as we uncover the facts and discuss the potential long-term effects on veterans. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products *Here is my recommendations on what patches to get and what has helped me. Ice Wave - this helps with my neuropathy. x39 - this helps me with brain fo...
Oct 10, 2024•42 min•Ep. 165
In this episode, we revisit the infamous Khamisiyah bunker explosion during Desert Storm. Watch the footage of the massive blast and learn about the long-term effects it had on Gulf War veterans and the surrounding region. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products *Here is my reco...
Oct 03, 2024•46 min•Ep. 164
Meet Ashley Gagnon, a nationally certified physician assistant, U.S. Navy veteran, and compensation and pension examiner, and Sean Biddle, a nationally accredited Veterans Service Officer and retired U.S. Air Force combat veteran. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products *Here is...
Sep 19, 2024•58 min•Ep. 162
Did you know that Gulf War Illness was officially recognized and passed into law by Congress? If not, we've got an eye-opening episode for you. Get access to past and bonus content with exclusive guest. Please help support the podcast and veterans so we can keep making the show - patreon.com/GulfWarSideEffects ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Life Wave Patches: https://lifewave.com/kevinsimon/store/products *Here is my recommendations on what patches to get and what has helped me. Ice Wave - this help...
Sep 05, 2024•42 min•Ep. 160
