The People We Meet with Ty Bruner

Resilience and Brotherhood: Navigating PTSD in the Fire Service

Welcome to 'The People We Meet,' where host Ty Bruner dives into extraordinary stories of resilience and courage. In this episode, Ty sits down with his friend and colleague, Chris Muñoz, in Medical Lake, Washington, to explore the profound impact of working in the fire service and the implications of PTSD.
Join the conversation as Chris shares his personal journey from growing up in Western Washington, pursuing a career in the fire service, and navigating the mental challenges that come with it. With raw honesty, Chris reveals his struggles with PTSD, the pivotal moments that shifted his perspective, and how sharing his story is not only a path to healing but also a beacon of hope for others in similar circumstances.
As the dialogue unfolds, listeners will gain insight into the profound bond shared among those in the fire service and the powerful ways storytelling can create a sense of community and understanding. Discover Chris's transformative journey as he channels his experiences into coaching and mentoring, helping to shape a new generation while healing from his own scars.Learn more about The People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

From Combat to Compassion: D's Global Odyssey

Join Ty as he dives into a captivating conversation with his charismatic friend, Daddy D, in this riveting episode of 'The People We Meet.' D's extraordinary journey, which spans adventures in 87 countries, tales from Desert Storm as a U.S. Marine, and the battles he's faced both abroad and at home. From a rebellious high schooler to the battlefield, to prison, and finally to answer the humanitarian call, D's story is a testament to resilience and redemption.
Discover the heart of a traveler who has lived the highs and hit rock bottom. D's journey is one of justice and compassion, filled with rich experiences and profound insights. This episode promises a compelling narrative that will leave you questioning boundaries and embracing the spirit of adventure.Learn more about the People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

A Voice From the Third Reich: Elfriede Bruce's Story

Join Ty Bruner as he delves into the compelling life of Elfreida Bruce, a now 95-year-old woman who grew up in Freiburg, Germany, during World War II under the shadow of the Third Reich.
As an impressionable 10-year-old, Elfriede looked upon Hitler as a savior and hero while her parents remained adamantly opposed to his quest for global conquest.  As a former member of the Hitler Youth, Elfreida's story offers a unique window into the tumultuous era, shaped by war, ideological indoctrination, and a family in conflict.
In this episode, Elfreida shares her childhood experiences, revealing a personal journey of belief, a community caught in the crossfire, and the tension between loyalty and doubt. With family resistance to the regime and personal encounters that raise questions about identity and morality, her narrative illustrates the complexities of growing up in a time of conflict and propaganda.
As Elfreida reflects on the past, listeners are invited to ponder the lifelong struggle of coming to terms with history and the impact of wartime memories on personal beliefs. This poignant episode explores the interplay of memory, identity, and the enduring desire for a world where kindness prevails over division. Listen in for a conversation that challenges perceptions, unearths uncomfortable truths, and leaves you with profound questions about the echoes of history in today's world.Learn more about The People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

Breaking Down Barriers: Sam Smith on Immigration, Identity, and Legal Pathways

In this episode of 'The People We Meet,' host Ty Bruner sits down with Sam Smith, an accomplished immigration attorney from Spokane, Washington, to uncover the human stories behind the immigration headlines. Born into a family of attorneys, Smith's journey is interwoven with personal convictions and experiences shaped by his unique upbringing. Together, they delve into complex topics surrounding immigration in the U.S., demystifying the nuances of terminology like 'undocumented' versus 'illegal' and the multifaceted realities of life as an immigrant.
Smith shares heartfelt anecdotes from his time on the front lines of immigration law, highlighting both the systemic challenges and moments of personal triumph that have marked his career. From his firsthand experiences at the southern border to establishing the Manzanita House in Spokane, Smith's narrative sheds light on the socio-political contexts and humanitarian efforts within the immigration sector.
Listeners are invited to reflect on America's immigration system, exploring the role of policy, legal frameworks, and personal responsibility in shaping a nation of diverse identities. Join us for a candid conversation aimed at fostering deeper understanding and empathy in today's often polarized discourse on immigration.

Sky Soldier: The Mike Jones Story

"Sky Soldiers" is the nickname for the 173rd Airborne Brigade.  Mike Jones served in 1st Battalion, 50th Infantry (Mechanized) attached to the 173rd during Operation Cochise Green in May of 1968.  He was wounded on 25 May, 1968 near Trung Hoi, Vietnam.  I got a chance to chat with Mike and he shared his story.  

Dustoff Pilot Rising: The Bill Burke Story

Bill Burke served three tours during the Vietnam conflict.  Two in the Special Forces and one as a helicopter Medevac pilot.  I met Bill in Costco and he shared his story with me.  His wife even joined us for awhile to share her experience as the wife of a career warrior.  We chatted about his experience and about his generation, my generation, and those in between.  

My Third Trip to Home Depot & The Unexpected Journey to Podcasting

What does Home Depot have to do with starting a podcast? More than you’d think.
In this debut episode, host Ty Bruner shares the unexpected moment that pushed him to launch this show—a podcast dedicated to telling real, unfiltered stories from everyday people.📌 #RealStories📌 #StorytellingPodcast📌 #TrueStories📌 #LifeStories📌 #PersonalGrowth📌 #LifeLessons📌 #AuthenticStories📌 #OrdinaryPeople📌 #UnfilteredConversations 📌 #HumanExperience📌 #PeopleMatter📌 #EverydayHeroes📌 #InspiringStories📌 #DeepConversations