National Military Podcast Day

National Military Podcast Day is observed every October 5, and it honors military and veteran voices using podcasts to tell their stories, reflect on their experiences, and connect with others. This observance celebrates the power of spoken word and digital storytelling among those who’ve served as well as those currently serving.

History of National Military Podcast Day

National Military Podcast Day was first established in 2021 by Shane Cunningham and Nick Nickerson, both U.S. Army veterans, founders of the “Broken Jarhead: The Broken Podcast.” Their goal was to create a dedicated day to encourage veterans and service members to use podcasting as a tool for expression, healing, and communication. The founders recognized that podcasting offers a unique medium in which people can speak freely, share life stories, and foster empathy through audio connection.

Over time, the observance grew in visibility through organizations that support military podcasters and host events around this date. In addition, the Veteran Podcast Awards now align with the day—providing recognition for outstanding podcasts produced by veterans or about veteran topics.

Why is National Military Podcast Day important?

This day is meaningful because it gives voice to individuals whose stories often go untold. Many veterans and active service members carry complex experiences—of deployment, loss, reintegration, or emotional struggle—that can be difficult to express. Podcasting provides a flexible, accessible channel for sharing those perspectives, and having a day dedicated to this platform helps elevate those voices so they may be heard more broadly.

Beyond personal storytelling, National Military Podcast Day fosters community and connection. Listeners may find resonance in a host’s journey or insight, bridging civilian‑military divides and promoting understanding. It also encourages new creators to embark on audio projects, generating more diverse perspectives in the public sphere.

Some ways the day matters

• It highlights the therapeutic and expressive potential of podcasting for military and veteran communities
• It offers public recognition to military podcasters who might otherwise remain niche
• It helps build empathy between military and civilian audiences
• It motivates veterans and service members to start or continue their own podcasting efforts
• It aligns with awards and events that boost visibility for these creators

How to Celebrate National Military Podcast Day

One of the simplest ways to observe this day is to listen—to tune in to a military‑themed or veteran podcast, especially one you haven’t tried before. Give attention to personal narratives, behind‑the-scenes reflections, or interviews that deepen your understanding of military life. Leave reviews or ratings for shows you like; creators often value feedback and encouragement.

If you’re inclined toward creation, consider recording a short podcast or a segment—even if it’s just five minutes—sharing a story, memory, or question related to military life or supporting those who have served. You don’t need fancy equipment; a smartphone and free editing tools are enough to get started. Share your episode on social media, tag veterans or military podcast creators, or host a listening session with friends or a community group.

And if podcasting isn’t your thing, there are other ways to show support: reach out to a veteran, offer to help promote their work, donate equipment or time to organizations that train podcasting for veterans, or simply start a conversation about a podcast you found inspiring.

Some small ways to join in

• Pick a military/veteran podcast you’ve never heard before and listen to an episode
• Write a review or rating for a veteran podcast you enjoy
• Record a short audio message or mini‑episode about a story or reflection
• Share your favorite military podcast with friends via social media or messaging
• Reach out to a podcaster in the military community to offer support, feedback, or collaboration

National Military Podcast Day Dates Table