19. Service, Healing, and Sacred Stories: A Conversation with Van Bogardus

In this heartfelt episode of the Heart Wide Open Wellness Podcast, we welcome the incredible Van Bogardus—Marine veteran, retired law enforcement officer, educator, and lifelong servant leader. I first met Van at the premiere of The Sacred Texts of War, a powerful documentary by Christina Mendoza that explores a narrative therapeutic approach to veterans living with combat trauma and PTSD. Van’s story spans decades of service—from enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1967 and serving in Vietnam in 1969, to a long career with the L.A. Sheriff's Department, and then 25 years of teaching at Sierra College. Through it all, Van has remained committed to helping others heal—whether through direct service, education, or his continued involvement in veteran support initiatives.

 He also shares his personal journey of love and resilience, including his 58-year marriage to his high school sweetheart, Cheryl, whose presence and support have been a steady force in his life. Tune in for a moving, deeply human conversation about service, trauma, healing, and the sacred power of storytelling. 

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