David Kieran
Historian of war and American culture, author of Signature Wounds: The Untold Story of the Military's Mental Health Crisis (NYU Press, 2019), and holder of the Colonel Richard R. Hallock distinguished university chair in military history at Columbus State University.
Best podcasts with David Kieran
Ranked by the Snipd community
Nov 14, 2025 • 50min
David Kieran, "Signature Wounds: The Untold Story of the Military's Mental Health Crisis" (NYU Press, 2019)
David Kieran, a historian specializing in war and American culture, dives into the military's overlooked mental health response during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. He reveals how the concept of PTSD and TBI emerged as the 'signature wounds' of these conflicts. Kieran discusses the complexities of military mental health care, the stigma surrounding it, and how varying interests shaped the response. He also highlights the alarming rise in veteran suicides and innovative VA outreach efforts to address these issues comprehensively.
Nov 14, 2025 • 50min
David Kieran, "Signature Wounds: The Untold Story of the Military's Mental Health Crisis" (NYU Press, 2019)
David Kieran, a historian and expert on military mental health, dives into the complex narratives surrounding PTSD and traumatic brain injuries from the Iraq War. He uncovers the Army's slow adaptation to mental health challenges and dispels myths about its responsiveness. Kieran emphasizes the importance of understanding soldiers’ experiences and advocates for reducing stigma surrounding mental health care. His insights reveal the diverse agendas of various stakeholders and the significant strides needed to support veterans and active-duty personnel.
