AF Lt Col Arlie Haddix: CEO of Operation Stand Down Tennessee. Calming the stress of transition with much needed services and support!

In this episode, I am joined by Arlie Haddix, CEO of Operation Stand Down Tennessee. Arlie is an Air Force veteran, retired Lt. Col., and graduate of both the U.S. Air Force Academy and Vanderbilt University School of Business Management.

Under his leadership, OSDTN delivers coordinated services that reflect the full complexity of veterans’ needs — from urgent mental‑health support and emergency food & housing to career development, leadership courses, and community connection.

We talk about the stress many service members face during the transition out of the military, why that period can feel so destabilizing, and how OSDTN steps in with practical, immediate, and long‑term support. Arlie shares insights on the organization’s mission, the gaps they’re working to close, and the power of giving veterans a place to belong.p.s. Thank you to my niece currently deployed as a Captain in the AF!