Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage
Pushkin Industries
Rewarded for bravery that goes above and beyond the call of duty, the Medal of Honor is the United States’ top military decoration. The stories we tell are about the heroes who have distinguished themselves by acts of heroism and courage that have saved lives. From Judith Resnik, the second woman in space, to Daniel Daly, one of only 19 people to have received the Medal of Honor twice, these are stories about those who have done the improbable and unexpected, who have sacrificed something in the name of something much bigger than themselves. Every Wednesday on Medal of Honor, uncover what their experiences tell us about the nature of sacrifice, why people put their lives in danger for others, and what happens after you’ve become a hero.
Special thanks to series creator Dan McGinn, to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and Adam Plumpton.
Medal of Honor begins on May 28. Subscribe to Pushkin+ to hear ad-free episodes one week early. Find Pushkin+ on the Medal of Honor show page in Apple or at Pushkin.fm.
Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Special thanks to series creator Dan McGinn, to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and Adam Plumpton.
Medal of Honor begins on May 28. Subscribe to Pushkin+ to hear ad-free episodes one week early. Find Pushkin+ on the Medal of Honor show page in Apple or at Pushkin.fm.
Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 16, 2025 • 35min
From Deep Cover: The Poster Child
We're sharing episodes this month from another Pushkin podcast we think you'll enjoy. In Deep Cover: The Truth About Sarah, Jake Halpern and acclaimed investigative journalist Jess McHugh unravel an epic six-year deception that upended lives of countless people. Sarah Cavanaugh was many things: A decorated veteran. A Marine who saved her comrades. A young woman fighting cancer. She was stoic, humble, tough. In short: a hero. Sarah was everything people wanted her to be—until she wasn’t. Turns out, no one knew the real Sarah. Not her comrades. Not her wife. No one. Jake and Jess interview all of the key sources—including Sarah, herself—to tell this sprawling tale.Episode 2: (05:38) In her home state of Rhode Island, Sarah builds her reputation as a celebrated war hero. But as her public profile grows, so do the quiet doubts.We’re committed to making Medal of Honor even better, and you can help! Leave your feedback for the show by filling out our listener survey at bit.ly/mohsurvey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
4 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 42min
Introducing Deep Cover: The Truth About Sarah
Dive into the shocking story of Sarah Cavanaugh, a woman who claimed to be a decorated Marine and cancer fighter. As the hosts unravel her elaborate lies, they reveal how her deception spanned years and devastated the lives of those who believed her. From a mysterious injury at a retreat to an investigation by NCIS and the FBI, each twist deepens the intrigue. Featuring heartfelt reflections and the bond of veterans, this tale explores the fragility of lies and the impact of betrayal.
Dec 3, 2025 • 50min
The Impact of Kindness: A Giving Tuesday Special from The Happiness Lab
In this special Giving Tuesday discussion, J.R. Martinez, an Army veteran and actor, shares how a service dog changed his life and supports fellow veterans. Economist Tim Harford recounts a moment of unexpected kindness in Cameroon that reshaped his view on trust. Dr. Maya Shanker reflects on childhood bullying and the power of peer kindness, demonstrating how small acts can create lasting positive impacts. Together, they explore the economics of altruism and the importance of giving.
Nov 11, 2025 • 27min
Showing Up On Veterans Day
To mark Veterans Day, host J.R. Martinez sits down with producer Ryan Sweikert to talk about what he’s learned from the stories of veterans who have received the Medal of Honor, how to talk to veterans about their service, and the moments that shaped his life, both in the service and afterward. Medal of Honor Season 3 is coming on May 27th, 2026. In the meantime, we want to hear from you. We’ve put together a listener survey. Tell us what you love about the show. What we can improve on. Stories you think we've missed. To take the survey, follow this link: bit.ly/mohsurveySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 34min
Carl Sitter: When Faith Led the Fight
Discover the harrowing experiences of Company G Marines during the brutal Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Hear about Captain Carl Sitter, an unlikely leader whose faith inspired his troops amidst deadly odds. The podcast delves into the extreme cold, heavy enemy fire, and the grit required to survive. It also emphasizes the heartwarming camaraderie forged in adversity, showcasing how personal beliefs can transform challenges into stories of courage and resilience.
4 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 35min
The Sailor Who Escaped Slavery
Discover the remarkable story of Robert Blake, an enslaved man who boldly chose to escape to the Navy during the Civil War. His courage during a fierce battle earned him the Medal of Honor, making him the first Black sailor to receive this honor. Unravel the mystery of his life post-war and the transformation of enslaved individuals into military heroes. Through gripping narratives, the podcast highlights resilience, the fight for freedom, and the legacy of Black sailors in shaping American history.
11 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 37min
Salvatore Giunta Didn’t Want to Be a Hero
Salvatore Giunta, a Medal of Honor recipient, shares his gripping story of heroism in Afghanistan, where he risked his life to save a fellow soldier during an ambush. He reflects on the harsh realities of combat, the emotional toll of loss, and the deep bonds of brotherhood formed in battle. Giunta discusses the struggle of living with honor and grappling with PTSD, emphasizing that heroism isn't always chosen but often inherited from the comrades who fight alongside you. His insights reveal the true meaning of courage amid chaos.
14 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 35min
How Marine Dan Daly Lived Forever
Dive into the daring escapades of Marine Dan Daly, celebrated as America’s most fearless warrior. Discover his iconic battle cry, the chaos of his early career, and the multiple Medal of Honor accolades he earned during the Boxer Rebellion. The podcast captures the fierce combat at Belleau Wood and sheds light on Daly's legacy and reflections on military service, illustrating a man whose bravery redefined the modern Marine Corps while grappling with the complexities of war and heroism.
20 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 44min
Judy Resnick in Space: Full Throttle Up
Judith Resnick, one of the first American women astronauts, shares her incredible journey in a male-dominated field. She recounts the tense moments before the launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery, highlighting bravery amid imminent danger. Resnick breaks barriers while battling sexism and forming bonds with fellow astronauts. Her significant contributions to space exploration and the emotions surrounding her historic mission are truly inspiring. The discussion also touches on the legacy of heroism displayed by those who faced great risks for a greater good.
11 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 37min
Charlie Plumb’s Unexpectedly Long Mission
In this engaging conversation, Captain Charlie Plumb, a U.S. Navy fighter pilot and former POW, shares his gripping experiences from the Vietnam War. He delves into the psychological toll of captivity, exploring feelings of guilt and the transformative power of forgiveness. Plumb emphasizes the crucial role of camaraderie among fellow airmen in surviving the harsh realities of prison life. His reflections on returning home reveal the emotional complexities veterans face, alongside a poignant encounter with a former enemy that highlights shared humanity and healing.
