Mission Inspire

Episode 17: World Renowned Architect of the National Medal of Honor Museum, Rafael Viñoly

Host Mo Barret is joined by world renowned architect and the creative genius behind the moving design which will become the future National Medal of Honor Museum, Rafael Viñoly. In the episode, Viñoly shares how he became involved in this historic project and the moment that inspired the architectural wonder which will house our awe-inspiring artifact collection. His list of award-winning architectural designs include the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate in Boston, Jazz at Lincoln Center in Manhattan, among countless others.

Episode 16: WWE Chief Brand Officer Stephanie McMahon

On this episode of the Mission Inspire podcast host Mo Barrett is joined by WWE Chief Brand Officer Stephanie McMahon and National Medal of Honor Museum Board Chair Charlotte Jones. Together these powerful and inspiring women discuss the partnership between the Museum and the WWE, the inspiration for the collaboration and how the two organizations will work together to bring the stories of some of America’s greatest heroes to life. Additionally, they discuss their commitments to giving back to the military community and how both Stephanie and Charlotte found themselves at the helm of their respective family businesses.

Episode 15: Best-Selling Author and National Medal of Honor Museum Board Member Brad Meltzer

Join host Mo Barrett as she takes us along on a freewheeling discussion with modern-day renaissance man Brad Meltzer, a New York Times bestselling author, nonfiction writer, TV show writer, comic book creator – and member of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation’s Board of Directors. Brad talks to Mo about why he’s such a huge supporter of the Museum, why he was so excited to work with DC Comics on a special edition of the popular Batman: Gotham Nights graphic novel series featuring Medal of Honor recipient SPC Sal Giunta, and what he dreams about doing next in his accomplished life. Brad also shares insights into his latest book The Lightning Rod and his close friendship with the late President George H.W. Bush.

Episode 14: The Donation of a Medal of Honor with Kirk Davis

Host Mo Barrett is joined by the son of Major Charles W. Davis, Kirk. Together they discuss why he decided to donate his father's Medal and the deeply emotional letters Major Davis sent to his wife, Joan, relating to the award to the National Medal of Honor Museum. Additionally, they discuss Kirk's book The Hero & The Beauty an account of his parents life together and his father’s heroism during World War II. 

Season 2 Premiere with Greg Waters, Curator, National Medal of Honor Museum

On the Season 2 premiere of Mission Inspire, host Mo Barrett is joined by National Medal of Honor Museum Curator Greg Waters to discuss behind the scenes details of the Museum’s growing collection. They talk about where the artifacts are sourced from and how they will be used to create the narrative that tells the unforgettable story of our nation’s greatest heroes. 

Episode 12: National Medal of Honor Museum Board Chair Charlotte Jones

Host Mo Barret is joined by National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation Board Chair and Dallas Cowboys Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer, Charlotte Jones. Together they discuss the inspiring Dallas Cowboys Salute to Service weekend, the public service announcement featuring three former U.S. Presidents and the exciting things to come for the Museum in 2022.

Episode 11: National Medal of Honor Museum President and CEO Chris Cassidy

Host Mo Barrett is joined by Chris Cassidy, the new President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum. A retired Navy SEAL and astronaut, Chris was appointed to his new position in August 2021. Together, they discuss life in the military, space travel, leadership and what the future holds for the Museum.

Episode 10: Back to School with Medal of Honor Recipient Gary Beikirch

Host Mo Barrett is joined by Medal of Honor recipient Gary Beikirch for a conversation about his life of service. Awarded the Medal of Honor for his gallant actions in Vietnam, Mr. Beikirch has spent his time since leaving the military providing counseling and support to young people. Serving as a middle school counselor for two decades, Mr. Beikirch provides his perspective of overcoming challenges and reintegrating to public life as kids around the country head back into the classroom.

Episode Nine: Creating a National Medal of Honor Monument with U.S. Rep. Blake Moore and Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Col. William Swenson

Host Mo Barrett is joined by U.S. Rep. Blake Moore (R-Utah) – the lead co-sponsor of legislation authorizing a national monument in Washington, DC, to recognize the Medal of Honor – and Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Col. William Swenson. Together, they discuss the importance of having a monument in the nation’s capital to our country’s highest military award for valor in combat and all that the Medal of Honor represents.  

Episode Eight: Medal of Honor Recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams

Host Mo Barret is joined by Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams, who earned our nation’s highest honor for valor in combat during the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. They discuss Mr. Williams' life of service on and off the battlefield – with a particular focus on honoring those servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as their families.