In this episode of Untold Valor, we sit down with Shaun Hall, Director of Programming at the Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC). Since 2008, VBC has created spaces (both in-person and online) where veterans from all eras and branches can share their stories, connect with one another, and preserve history for future generations.
Shaun shares how he discovered VBC through his theater work, why storytelling is so powerful in the veteran community, and how the organization pivoted during the pandemic to expand its reach nationwide. From intimate one-on-one interviews to large gatherings with hundreds of attendees, the VBC provides a safe, welcoming place where every veteran’s voice matters. Learn how you can join, listen, and support this mission of connection, healing, and inspiration.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Shaun’s journey from theater to the VBC
How VBC grew from local breakfasts in Pittsburgh to a national community
The power of storytelling to connect, heal, and inspire
Preserving stories through magazines, history projects, and one-on-one interviews
Why listening is the best way to thank a veteran
0:00 – Intro
1:01 – Getting to know Shaun and VBC
6:16 – The power of storytelling
7:22 – VBC events and getting involved
11:36 – Highlighting lesser-known conflicts and stories
16:09 – Shaun’s message to listeners
Shaun Hall
Shaun is host and producer of VBC’s podcast, The Scuttlebutt. He is not a veteran but has a passion for veterans’ stories. Shaun received his BFA in Acting from Point Park University in 2004 and has spent over a decade in the non-profit sector supporting missions that focus on storytelling.
Veterans Breakfast Club
https://veteransbreakfastclub.org/
OTHER RESOURCES
Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg
Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy
CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU
Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)
To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS
View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q
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