Introduction: Is Anybody Listening? (01:55)

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Paula Caplan describes her father and his ability to listen. She reflects on listening to veterans to better understand their lives.

War Veteran (03:55)

During WWII, Caplan's father captains the 969th Field Artillery Battalion; they earn the Presidential Citation for Meritorious Service. Caplan reflects on hearing her father's war stories and the "epidemic of disconnection." Combat veterans are 1% of the U.S. population.

Military Service Memories (02:53)

Combat veterans reflect on deployment and their willingness to talk about events. Nehru Harper cites an honorable discharge for homosexuality.

Psychological Changes (03:55)

Soldiers experience culture shock when transitioning from civilian life to military life and back. Dr. Kathy Platoni cites mistaken beliefs veterans and non-veterans have about one another. Veterans discuss why they joined the military and stereotypes.

Trauma vs. Mental Illness (03:54)

Caplan's blogs about veterans receive fewer readers than her other works. Veterans do not communicate with non-veterans for various reasons. Veterans reflect on traumatic experiences, trained responses, and fitting in.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (06:35)

Experts discuss the "wholesaling diagnosing of mental illness," PTSD, reasons why some vets want a PTSD label, and previously used terminology for war experiences. Doctors over-prescribe psychiatric medications.

Veteran Suffering (04:15)

Despite the military's response to PTSD, rates of suffering increase; 58,000 vets are homeless every night and substance abuse continues to rise. Caplan discusses five main reasons for veteran suicides.

Welcome Johnny and Jane Home Project (04:11)

Michelle Dillow recalls sharing the impact of her war experiences with students. Caplan cites two sentences to use when listening to veterans and session guidelines.

Power of Listening (04:35)

Platoni quotes Henri Nouwen's perspective on listening. For some veterans, it is easier to talk to a stranger and non-therapist; some prefer to talk with non-veterans.

Forward Observers of Life and Death (04:38)

Listeners often experience personal positive transformations. Veterans reflect on processing death and sharing experiences. Caplan discusses veteran perceptions of listening sessions.

Life After Service (04:44)

Differing politics do not matter during a listening session. Veterans share the psychological impact of their experiences.

Listening to Veterans (02:12)

Caplan explains ways the Welcome Johnny and Jane Home Project works. In 2011, Ted Engelmann suggests national days for listening. Listening to veterans immerses Caplan in many human emotions and reactions.

Credits: Is Anybody Listening? (02:35)

Credits: Is Anybody Listening?