From Claims to Care: How the VA Is Changing for Veterans
- S5E161
- 26:41
- January 11th 2026
In this episode, Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes back Dr. Paul Lawrence, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to discuss the latest initiatives and challenges at the VA. From modernizing healthcare to protecting veterans’ benefits, Dr. Lawrence shares insights, practical advice, and stories that matter to every veteran.
Topics Covered
- VA leadership priorities and putting veterans at the center of all decisions
- Reducing claims backlog and improving benefits processing
- Protecting veterans from predatory “claim sharks” and promoting free, accredited assistance
- Electronic health records and coordinated care
- Expanding community care and telehealth for rural veterans
- Efforts to combat veteran homelessness and available resources
- Legislative updates, including the Elizabeth Dole Act
- Modernizing benefits, appeals, and technology in VA services
- Practical advice and personal stories from veterans
If you or someone you know is at risk of homelessness, call the VA’s homeless hotline: 877-424-3838.
Resources
- VA Homeless Hotline: 877-424-3838
- Accredited Veteran Service Organizations:
- American Legion
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
- Wounded Warrior Project
- State Departments of Veterans Affairs
Call to Action
If you found this episode helpful, share it, post about it on social media, or leave a rating and review. For additional resources, visit your local VA or reach out to an accredited veteran service organization.
Thank you for listening to Coming Home Well — until all are home and all are well.
Disclaimer:
"The views expressed by Dr. Pieron are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of War or the U.S. Government."
Coming Home Well
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Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping the Unified Service Family- transitioning servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones- navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of service.
From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By highlighting diverse healing modalities, we aim to provide inclusive resources that support every individual's unique path.
In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by historians to revisit key moments in our nation's history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice while providing context that deepens our understanding of the lived experience of those who serve.
Whether you are a veteran, a first responder, a family member, a caregiver, or an advocate, Coming Home Well offers the insights, connections, and tools necessary to support a successful transition and a healthy, purpose-driven life.
Meet the Host
Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.
Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.