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Artwork for Crayon Box Politics, VA Benefits, and Changing Parties: An Open Conversation with Carl Able

Published February 24, 2026 · 47:48

Crayon Box Politics, VA Benefits, and Changing Parties: An Open Conversation with Carl Able

Guest: Carl Able

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  • Transition to civilian life
  • Family and caregivers
  • Benefits and VA process
  • Service stories
  • Community and nonprofits

Show notes

On this episode of "Helping the Brave," host Ed Parcaut sits down with Marine Corps veteran Carl Able to dive deep into a life of service, transition, and the drive to make a difference after the military. Carl shares candid stories—from his unique path into intelligence work, experiences in Iraq, learning new languages at Monterey, and navigating the world of veterans' benefits. The conversation opens up about the challenges and rewards of leaving the military after 20 years, dealing with VA disability, and why it matters to speak openly about these benefits.

They also discuss Carl's ambitions for entering politics, the importance of veteran representation in government, and the idea of making November permanently recognized as Veterans Month. Tune in for a genuine, engaging conversation that covers service, sacrifice, community, and what it means to advocate for change. If you're interested in the realities of military life, veteran transition, and how to make your voice heard, this episode is packed with insights.

Find Carl Able at crayonboxpolitics.com and on all major podcast platforms.

*Contact Ed Parcaut:** - 🌍 Website: [edparcaut.com](http://edparcaut.com) - 📱 Twitter: [@edparcaut](https://twitter.com)

For more resources and support, visit HelpingTheBrave.com. #HelpingTheBrave #EdParcautPodcast #CarlAble #VeteranStories #MilitaryService #MarineCorps #Politics #VeteransBenefits #GIbill #VeteranSupport #CrayonBYoxPolitics #MilitaryLife #VeteranAdvocacy #CongressRun #AmericanVeterans #PodcastInterview #MilitaryTransition #VeteransMonth #FirewalkForVets #NavyStories #ArmyFamily #LanguageLearning #PoliticalJourney #CommunityInvolvement #NorthCarolinaPolitics #CaliforniaVeterans

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