ABOUT THIS EPISODE
As we open Season 3 of Brainstorms, we kick off the new year with a powerful January conversation featuring retired Navy Chief Joe Pisano, returning for his third annual appearance to reflect on the lessons of 2025 and cast a bold vision for 2026.
This episode centers on unity, service, and action as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the United States. Chief Pisano and Dr. Gordon explore what it truly means to honor our veterans—not just with words, but with systems that work.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why 2026 is a pivotal year for veterans, families, and communities
Reframing “veterans” as Guardians—those who stood between our freedoms and harm
The upcoming book Guarding Our Guardians, focused on healthcare, education, and employment reform
Chief Pisano’s powerful art installation “The Guardian: Wings of Sacrifice”, featuring 2,500 dog tags and a battlefield cross
The growing VISTA (Veterans Standing Together Across America) initiative and its role in suicide prevention
How art, community ceremonies, and civic leadership can help heal the invisible wounds of service
What it will take in 2026 to move from awareness to real, measurable action
This episode is both a reflection and a call to action—reminding us that honoring those who served means building a future where no Guardian feels forgotten, burdensome, or alone.
🧠 If you or someone you love is navigating traumatic brain injury, military transition, or mental health challenges, this conversation offers insight, hope, and direction.
📍 Learn more about VISTA:
VeteransStandingTogetherAcrossAmerica.org
📍 Learn more about Resurrecting Lives Foundation:
ResurrectingLives.org
If you’re thinking about harming yourself or someone you love needs help, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
👉 Please like, subscribe, and share to help grow this movement.
We’ve got a lot to fix in ’26—and it starts together.
