Join Tia as she reveals her journey of self-discovery through wearing a bear costume and transitioning from masking her true self to finding authentic happiness. The conversation looks into her past experiences with bullying, military service, and mental health struggles, emphasizing her battle with PTSD and a transformative session with 22Zero. Tia discusses her passion for motorsports, her efforts to promote veteran organizations, and her dreams for the future. Alongside her, Michael shares His motivation for starting a podcast to capture and share the diverse stories of veterans. Together, they emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and the power of genuine human connection.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Conversation

01:13 The Bear Suit and Overcoming Social Anxiety

05:25 Military Service and Medical Discharge

08:50 Post-Military Life and Mental Health Struggles

16:48 Discovering Motorsports and Its Impact

37:44 Networking and Future Aspirations

55:05 Meeting the Car Enthusiast

56:28 Reconnecting and Creating Content

59:21 The Impact of Manifestation

01:00:52 Challenges in Mental Health Care

01:04:58 Exploring Alternative Therapies

01:09:02 Podcasting and Personal Aspirations

01:29:42 Nashville's Changing Vibe

01:33:29 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this conversation, John discusses the mission of the Dunham House, a 27,000 square foot facility designed to house 30 combat-wounded veterans whose aging parents can no longer care for them. The initiative was inspired by a young soldier with a traumatic brain injury, highlighting the need for long-term care solutions for veterans. The discussion delves into the challenges of fundraising, the facility’s planned services, and the importance of personalized care. Emphasizing the need for private funding, the script also touches upon the resilience required to bring such projects to fruition and the broader needs of the veteran community. Listeners are encouraged to support the endeavor financially through contributions.

Links

John Folsom and The Dunham House

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/colonel-john-folsom/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/dunhamhouseorg/posts/?feedView=all⁠

https://dunhamhouse.org/⁠

https://www.facebook.com/DunhamHouseOrg⁠

⁠ Michael Turbyfill and It’s a Veteran’s Life

www.itsaveteranslife.com

www.linkedin.com/in/MichaelTurbyfill

https://www.facebook.com/itsaveteranslife1

It's a Veteran’s Life, host Mike Turbyfill engages with Michael Carmichael, the driving force behind Check A Vet, to explore how this nonprofit aims to combat this crisis. Founded by Carmichael, a retired special forces chief warrant officer, Check A Vet strives to create a fortified support network for veterans facing suicidal ideation by addressing underlying stressors and risk factors.

In this powerful episode, JT, also known as 'Viko,' shares his inspiring story of transformation from a Marine Corps veteran to an Army National Guard serviceman, and eventually, a successful entrepreneur. Motivated by the events of September 11, 2001, JT reflects on his intense experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, the challenges of returning to civilian life, and his battles with PTSD. He candidly discusses crucial topics like veterans' mental health and employment difficulties, and highlights the therapeutic outlets that helped him cope. Now running the Bearded Viking Mead Company, JT emphasizes the importance of resilience, kindness, and facing challenges to foster personal growth. This episode is a heartfelt testament to overcoming adversity and finding light even in the darkest times.

02:14 Joining the Marine Corps: A Personal Journey

03:25 Recruitment Challenges and Choices

08:53 Boot Camp and Early Military Experiences

18:20 Deployment and Combat Experiences

36:30 Post-Military Life and Joining the Army National Guard

40:24 Unexpected Encounter with Private Jensen

41:04 Teaching Military Customs and Courtesies

41:38 Challenges in the Army National Guard

44:14 Deployment to Afghanistan

45:29 Experiences with Route Clearance

47:41 The Reality of War in Afghanistan

48:22 Cultural and Historical Context of Afghanistan

01:05:40 Transitioning Back to Civilian Life

01:20:25 A Violent Realization

01:21:09 Seeking Help and Medication Struggles

01:22:00 Life's Downward Spiral

01:25:44 A Life-Saving Moment

01:28:24 Finding Solace in Karaoke

01:31:01 Embracing Change and Overcoming Demons

01:39:33 The Importance of Self-Care

01:48:41 Building a Legacy

01:56:00 Final Thoughts and Sign Off

Bes sure to check out the Bearded Vinking Mead Co. and Vikings, Outlaws, and Cowboys podcast!

https://beardedviking.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083611050695

https://www.youtube.com/@beardedviking1586

In this episode of Foxtrot Uniform, hosted by Mike Turbyfill, a veteran guest details their experience before, during, and after their military service. Inspired to join the military after 9/11, the guest shares the motivations and challenges faced, including family reactions and the rigors of basic training at Fort Benning. They discuss multiple deployments, the camaraderie within the service, and the difficulties faced during operations, especially in OIF 1 and later missions. Post service, the veteran talks about the struggles with mental health, homelessness, and the inadequate support received from the VA. They also touch on the transition to civilian life, the significance of support systems, and advice for prospective and current military members. Through personal anecdotes and valuable lessons learned, this episode sheds light on the realities of military life and the importance of mental health awareness and support for veterans.

00:00 Introduction to Foxtrot Uniform

00:33 Deciding to Join the Military

01:37 Family Reactions and Basic Training

05:11 Deployment Experiences and Reflections

09:32 Encounters and Reunions

16:11 Leadership and Command Challenges

24:31 Reflections on Military Service

25:32 Military Influence on Values and Beliefs

25:46 Life Before and After Joining the Military

26:32 Experiences in Arizona and Mexico

27:32 Mental Health Challenges and Military Response

30:44 Struggles with Homelessness and Trust Issues

32:06 Seeking Support and VA Experiences

33:40 Advice for Veterans and Service Members

38:49 Transition to Civilian Life and VA Benefits

43:55 Helping the Next Generation of Veterans

49:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Foxtrot Uniform, host Mike Turbyfill interviews retired Sergeant Major Whiskey, who offers a profound and heartfelt recounting of his military experiences and post-service life. The discussion covers his time stationed in Okinawa, Japan, his brother’s service in Vietnam, and the emotional challenges faced, including being drafted and losing his mother shortly after enlisting. Whiskey candidly speaks about racial tensions, the impact of military service on family, and his logistical work in Okinawa. He also provides practical advice on navigating the VA disability claims process and the value of support networks. This episode offers an authentic look at the hardships, camaraderie, and complexities of military service, along with practical insights for veterans. www.fupodcast.life

Navy Vet "star" discuss her time in the navy aboard the "U.S.S Career Killer and U.S.S Suicide ship"

we talk about why she decided to join the navy and how her service impacted her then and now.

She tells what advice she has for those joining and we also discuss the topic of mental health.

https://linktr.ee/fupodcast