Drive On: Overcoming Military Trauma & Finding Success as a Veteran

We made it to 500 episodes! Honestly, I didn't expect to hit this number when I first started the Drive On Podcast. I figured I'd try it out, see if it helped anyone, and maybe move on if it didn't. But here we are, and that's thanks to you, the listeners who stuck around, shared the show, and kept me going. In episode 100, I said: "I don't think I'll do another one of these milestone episodes anytime soon either. One hundred seemed significant to me, so I wanted to do this one. Maybe I'll do another when I hit the 500th episode, if I make it that long...Who knows if I'll still be doing it by then. I hope I am, but you never know." I guess, we now know the answer to that! In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain a bit. I talk about how the podcast got started, why I felt called to do it, and who the show is really for. I also answer five questions that came in from listeners, covering things like growth, lessons learned, podcast gear, and how the podcast has changed me along the way. This one's a little more personal. I talk about grief, PTSD, connection, and how talking with other veterans has helped me, and hopefully helped you too. Whether you've been with me since the early days or you just found the show, I think this episode gives you a solid look at what Drive On is all about. Listener Questions Answered: Thanks for being part of this milestone. If the show's helped you in any way, I'd love it if you'd share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://driveonpodcast.com/recommends/descript/Ep 360 Doug Brinker Beacon 4 HOPEEp 363 Jeff Circle Empowering Veterans Through WritingEp 444 JP Perez Transforming Lives with VetRise Academy Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Leaving the military doesn't mean your battles are over. It just changes the battlefield. In this raw, relatable episode, Navy veteran and podcast host Mr. Whiskey shares his story from the high-suicide-rate nuclear program to enduring one of the Navy's most toxic command environments aboard the USS George Washington. He opens up about the weight of grief, loss, and leadership failure. And why getting out didn't magically fix anything. We dive deep into why finding a new mission is so critical after service and how comedy, real talk, and connection can save lives. From breaking cycles of abuse in command culture to mentoring the next generation of service members, this episode delivers gut-checks, laughs, and a ton of heart. If you've ever felt like you were promised something on the way out that never arrived, this conversation is for you. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://coupleonukes.comhttp://www.instagram.com/coupleonukes/http://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-whiskey-921b70299/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Coming home doesn't always mean you're back. For Marine Corps reservist Ron Jansen, the toughest battles came long after Iraq, when the mission was over and the noise faded. Like so many veterans, he tried to pick up where he left off. A full-time job. Family life. No time to think about what really happened downrange. But trauma doesn't stay quiet forever. It showed up in his relationships, his stress, and the nagging sense that something inside still hadn't healed. In this episode, we dive deep into the hidden cost of suppressing your experience and the surprising freedom that comes from facing it head-on. Ron opens up about the therapeutic power of writing, the raw difficulty of vulnerability, and the camaraderie rediscovered through outdoor retreats and faith-based community. If you've ever felt disconnected, like you're "just getting by," this conversation will hit home. This isn't about wallowing in the past. It's about integrating it so you can actually move forward. Here's where the real breakthroughs happen: Timestamps 00:01:00 - Avoiding emotions after deployment and why it backfires00:04:00 - Writing a combat memoir as a path to healing00:11:30 - Finding therapy in wilderness retreats and group connection00:17:00 - Shedding the armor of invincibility after service00:26:45 - Why storytelling and brotherhood can change everything Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://anotherwisehealthyperson.com/ Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

It's one thing to survive war, it's another to make sure it's remembered. In this powerful conversation, Special Forces veteran Michael "Rod" Rodríguez opens up about his journey through combat, traumatic injury, and personal loss, and how those experiences led him to a new mission: building the Global War on Terrorism Memorial in Washington, D.C. Rod isn't just talking about his story. He's fighting for all our stories - service members, Gold Star families, civilian contractors, and anyone touched by the Global War on Terrorism. As the president and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, Rod walks us through what it takes to build a national memorial: the red tape, the victories, and the deep emotional stakes of making sure our generation isn't forgotten. From delivering hope in Somalia to eating charges on breaching missions, Rod's story is one of grit, growth, and leadership. But more than anything, it's about building something that lasts, not just for us, but for the next generation who needs to know what we lived through. Timestamps 00:06:42 – Early deployments and the reality of combat in Somalia 00:17:31 – TBI, PTSD, and the personal cost of continuing to serve 00:28:50 – Reaching rock bottom and finding healing through purpose 00:41:12 – Why the Global War on Terrorism Memorial matters now 01:01:46 – Honoring the invisible wounds and collective sacrifice of the GWOT generation Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/https://www.facebook.com/gwotmf/https://www.instagram.com/gwotmf/https://twitter.com/GWOTMF/https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-war-on-terror-memorial-foundation Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

After deployment, some warriors come home. Others just arrive. Dustin Carter opens up about how writing became more than a hobby-it became his lifeline. From his rough start before service to finding purpose in the Guard, then facing the spiral of isolation, anger, and a VA system that wanted to medicate instead of listen, Dustin didn't just survive-he wrote his way through. His novel, The Veteran, follows a fictional soldier on a hauntingly real path-homelessness, addiction, trauma-and the slow, uphill climb back through therapy, routine, and the camaraderie of fellow vets. This conversation is raw, unfiltered, and full of the kind of insight only a vet could offer. Whether you're in the thick of your own battle or trying to support someone who is, this episode offers hope, perspective, and a few hard truths that might just spark change. Timestamps 04:00 - Dustin Carter on how structure in the military gave him purpose 08:15 - Why writing became his escape from pills and pain 11:00 - Behind The Veteran: A raw story of spiraling and recovery 20:45 - Rebuilding with movement, connection, and purpose 32:00 - A haircut, a suit, and the spark that changed everything Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.dustincarter512.comTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

You trained hard, ate right, and stayed in top physical condition in the military. But after getting out? It's easy for those habits to fall apart. Food becomes a comfort, a coping mechanism, or just an afterthought in the chaos of civilian life. And before you know it, the disciplined approach you once had is gone. In this episode, Jessica Setnick, a nutritionist specializing in eating behaviors, breaks down why so many veterans struggle with food after service. We dive into the connection between food and mental health, how stress alters your eating habits, and why so many of us reach for food as a way to deal with emotions. This conversation isn't about dieting or counting calories-it's about understanding your relationship with food so you can take back control. If you've ever found yourself stress-eating, skipping meals, or feeling out of sync with your body, this episode is for you. Timestamps: Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://JessicaSetnick.comhttps://HealingYourInnerEater.comTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

When Sam Westfall left the military, he felt the weight of transition, PTSD, and loss of purpose. He tried to cope the way many veterans do-through alcohol and firearms, which aren't the best combination-but nothing seemed to work. That all changed the day a friend handed him a bow. In this episode, Sam shares how archery became his path to mental clarity and emotional stability. Through Archery N Motion and the Valor Archery Challenge, he's introducing fellow veterans to the same sense of peace and focus that transformed his life. Whether you're looking for an alternative therapy for PTSD, a way to rebuild camaraderie, or just a new challenge, this conversation will open your eyes to the unexpected healing power of archery. Plus, Sam breaks down why archery is a mental game, a form of mindfulness, and a bridge to connection with other veterans. He also dives into how the Valor Archery Challenge is creating a space where veterans can shoot, connect, and discover new opportunities. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or just in need of an outlet that actually works, you'll want to hear this one. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://ValorArcheryChallenge.comhttps://ArcheryNMotion.comhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561361586630https://www.instagram.com/valorarcherychallenge/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-westfall-2227433/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

War leaves a lasting impact-not just on those who fight, but on the generations that follow. Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Naughton grew up in the shadow of his father's Vietnam service, ultimately choosing to follow in his footsteps. With a career spanning the infantry, medical corps, and leadership roles in Washington, D.C., he brings a unique perspective on how war shapes identity, leadership, and transition. In this episode, we discuss the lessons military leaders should have learned from Vietnam and how those mistakes were repeated in Iraq and Afghanistan. Patrick shares insights from his book, Born From War, which parallels his father's time in Vietnam with his own service in Iraq, and how history continues to shape the military experience. We also dive into the challenges of reintegration, the importance of finding a new mission after service, and why military leadership isn't always about filling sandbags next to your troops. Whether you're navigating transition, struggling to find purpose, or just looking for real conversations about military life, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom from the front lines and beyond. Timestamps 00:02:45 - From Infantry to Medical Officer: A Unique Military Journey00:07:15 - Vietnam and Iraq: The Same Mistakes Repeated00:16:00 - The Truth About Military Leadership and Mission Creep00:29:30 - Why Metrics and Numbers Don't Tell the Whole Story00:37:00 - Finding Purpose and Passion After Service Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.patnaughton.com/https://www.casematepublishers.com/9781636245140/born-from-war/https://www.facebook.com/patrick.naughton.37https://www.instagram.com/patricknaugh/https://x.com/PatrickMilHishttps://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-naughton-0a077b158/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Leaving the military comes with challenges-redefining your purpose, finding a meaningful career, and stepping into an unfamiliar civilian world where your experience isn't always understood. But what if your military skills could be the key to success in one of the fastest-growing and most mission-driven industries today? The cybersecurity field is facing a massive talent shortage, and veterans have exactly what it takes to fill the gap. Tactical decision-making, problem-solving under pressure, and a mission-first mindset-these are the same skills that make an effective cyber professional. In this episode, we sit down with Ricoh Danielson, an Army veteran and cybersecurity expert, to break down how veterans can transition into cyber careers, whether they have a technical background or not. We dive into the real-world pathways available, including training programs, certifications, and networking strategies that get veterans in the door. Ricoh shares his own journey from the battlefield to cybersecurity, how he built a successful career in the industry, and why veterans are uniquely suited to excel in this space. If you're looking for a career that offers both purpose and opportunity, cybersecurity might just be your next mission. Listen in as we map out the steps to make it happen. Timestamps 03:15 - Recognizing transferable military skills suitable for cybersecurity​ 12:40 - Training programs and certifications tailored for veterans​ 25:10 - Navigating the cybersecurity job market as a veteran​ 37:55 - Success stories: Veterans thriving in cybersecurity roles​ 48:20 - Resources and support systems for veterans entering tech fields Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis LineTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

Some wounds don't come from the battlefield-they come from within the ranks. Brandon Caserta was strong. Disciplined. Determined. He had a dream to serve in the military, to push himself to the limits, to be part of something greater than himself. But when he faced toxic leadership, retaliation, and neglect from those meant to lead, the weight became unbearable. His parents, Terri and Patrick Caserta, were left with the unimaginable loss of their son. But instead of letting their grief consume them, they fought back-championing the Brandon Act, a law ensuring service members can confidentially seek mental health help without fear of retaliation. In this episode, we discuss: Brandon Act Brandon should still be here. His story should have had a different ending. But because of his parents' fight, lives are being saved today. Listen in and share this episode-because no service member should feel alone in their struggle. Timestamps 00:02:15 - Who Brandon Caserta was and the values he lived by 00:10:15 - The toxic leadership and broken culture within the Navy 00:29:00 - The events leading up to Brandon's death on the flight line 01:04:20 - How Terri and Patrick uncovered the truth and began their fight 01:32:10 - What the Brandon Act means for today's service members Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.thebrandonact.orghttps://www.brandoncasertafoundation.orghttps://www.facebook.com/thebrandonacthttps://www.instagram.com/thebrandonact/https://x.com/ActBrandonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/the-brandon-act-719821228/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Losing the uniform doesn't mean losing your mission. But for a lot of veterans, the transition out of service feels like being dropped into an unknown world without a map. That's exactly what Rob Sarver and Alex Gendzier set out to fix. After years of interviews with veterans, deep research into military transition, and personal experience, they wrote Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey-a guide designed to help veterans navigate the mental, emotional, and professional challenges of post-service life. In this episode, they break down the biggest obstacles veterans face-loss of identity, lack of purpose, job struggles, and mental health hurdles-and provide real-world strategies to overcome them. From the wisdom of ancient warrior cultures to the latest research on PTSD, career fulfillment, and personal growth, this conversation is packed with insights every veteran needs to hear. If you're a veteran looking for a blueprint to a successful transition-or you know someone who needs one-this episode is a must-listen. Timestamps: 00:01:00 - Why transition is so hard for veterans 00:07:15 - The biggest mistakes veterans make after leaving service 00:12:45 - Finding purpose in civilian life 00:18:30 - Mental health strategies that actually work 00:25:00 - How to prepare for transition the right way Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/B0D4WJB7YL/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

What happens when you transition out of the military and the leadership in civilian life doesn't measure up? Jason West, a Marine veteran and leadership consultant, breaks down why leadership matters more than ever when building a business, leading a team, or just trying to create purpose in your post-service life. From his experiences in the Marine Corps to running his consulting firm, Officers Eat Last, Jason shares the foundational leadership principles that keep teams strong and mission-focused-whether on the battlefield or in the boardroom. He also explains why purpose-driven leadership isn't just a buzzword but a critical mindset shift for veterans looking to succeed after the military. Jason discusses how leadership evolves from being about physical capability to strategic thinking, why great leaders serve their people first, and how veterans can apply military leadership principles to business and life. If you've ever felt frustrated by weak leadership in the civilian world or struggled to find a meaningful role post-service, this episode is packed with insights to help you take charge and lead with impact. Timestamps: 04:30 - Jason's journey from football to the Marine Corps 12:15 - The evolution of leadership from enlisted to officer 27:00 - Why "Officers Eat Last" is more than just a saying 39:45 - Finding purpose after military service 50:15 - Tactical leadership strategies for business and life Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.officerseatlast.com/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

The war doesn't always end when you come home. For many veterans, the toughest battles are fought in silence-moral injury, survivor's guilt, and the search for meaning after service. Retired Army Sergeant Eric Donoho lived it. After surviving multiple IED blasts, he returned home to a life that felt shattered, eventually finding himself at the brink of suicide. But that wasn't the end of his story. Through mountain climbs, advocacy, and discovering the power of faith-wherever that may be found-Eric transformed his pain into purpose. He now fights for veteran-focused legislation, educates others on moral injury, and helps fellow warriors find their own path forward. In this episode, he shares his journey, the struggles so many veterans face, and actionable insights on how to rebuild after the darkest days. Whether you're battling your own demons or want to understand the hidden wounds of war, this conversation is one you don't want to miss. Timestamps: 01:15 - The moment that nearly ended it all and the path to recovery 04:00 - Moral injury vs. PTSD: Understanding the difference and why it matters 12:45 - Fighting for veterans on Capitol Hill and advocating for change 28:30 - The role of faith and community in healing 45:15 - Turning struggle into purpose and helping fellow veterans Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.ericdonoho.comTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

We all have demons. Some we fought on the battlefield, others we fight in our own minds. For Army veteran Juan Espinoza, the weight of his experiences nearly crushed him-until he found a way to process the pain. After years of bottling up emotions and trying to "just push through," Juan hit a breaking point. One cold December night, he stepped into the rain, dropped to his knees, and screamed for purpose. What followed was an outpouring of emotion that turned into a book-written in just two days-that changed his life forever. In this episode, Juan shares how writing became his therapy, how shifting your perspective can change your life, and why true strength comes from vulnerability, not suppression. Whether you're a veteran dealing with the unseen scars of service, struggling with relationships, or searching for purpose after the uniform comes off, this conversation will hit home. And if you think you're not the "writing type," Juan's story might just change your mind. Timestamps: 02:45 - Juan's Army career and combat deployments 10:45 - Writing as a form of healing and self-reflection 22:30 - The power of perspective in overcoming pain 35:45 - Strength in vulnerability and breaking toxic cycles 50:15 - How veterans can start their healing journey Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://juanespinoza.meTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

Leaving the military is hard. Finding the right job? Even harder. Veterans often find themselves stuck in jobs that don't match their skills, struggling to translate their military experience into something that makes sense to civilian employers. Jon Safran, a 23-year Air Force veteran and Chief Military Engagement Advisor at MilitaryConnected.org, knows this challenge firsthand. His mission? To bridge the gap between veterans and military-ready companies that understand and value their skills. In this episode, we explain why many veterans feel lost in their first civilian job, the biggest transition mistakes to avoid, and how to connect with companies ready to hire and support veterans. If you're about to leave the military-or if you've already transitioned and are frustrated with the job search-this episode is for you. Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://militaryconnected.org/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Too many veterans are handed a diagnosis and a prescription-but never a real solution. Dr. Fred Moss has spent decades working in psychiatry, only to realize that true healing doesn't come from medication-it comes from connection. In this episode, Dr. Moss shares how veterans can reclaim their mental health by finding their true voice and engaging in meaningful communication. We explore why psychiatric labels can do more harm than good, how technology has changed the way we connect, and the power of listening as a healing tool. For veterans struggling with PTSD, anxiety, or feeling lost after service, this episode is a wake-up call. Healing requires more than just suppressing emotions; it involves understanding them, embracing them, and using them to build deeper human connections. Timestamps: Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://welcometohumanity.nethttps://instagram.com/drfredmosshttps://x.com/drfredmossTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

Some sacrifices are too big to be forgotten. When Major Brent Taylor was killed in action in 2018, his daughter Megan Taylor was only 13 years old. Now, at 19, she's carrying on his legacy in powerful ways-through advocacy, remembrance, and leadership in the veteran community. In this episode, Megan opens up about growing up in a family shaped by both military and civic service. Her father wasn't just a soldier; he was a mayor, a mentor, and a man who led by example. She shares personal memories, the impact of his loss on her family, and how she has found strength in the military community. Megan also talks about her role in the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation and why she's working to ensure that every service member's sacrifice is honored while they're still here to see it. This episode is about more than grief-it's about purpose, resilience, and ensuring that no one who served is ever forgotten. Timestamps: 00:01:15 - The life and service of Major Brent Taylor 00:05:45 - Growing up with a father in the military and public service 00:12:00 - Becoming a Gold Star child and navigating loss 00:21:30 - Lessons in resilience and selflessness 00:29:15 - The Global War on Terrorism Memorial and why it matters Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/Transcript View the transcript for this episode.

Losing camaraderie after leaving the military can be one of the hardest parts of the transition. No one seems to understand, and it's easy to feel isolated-even in a room full of people. But what if there was a way to rebuild that sense of purpose and connection? Enter Charles Watkins, an Army veteran who knows firsthand what it's like to struggle after service. As a former chaplain assistant, he spent his time in the military helping soldiers through their toughest moments. But after leaving the Army, he found himself battling his own transition struggles, feeling lost, and searching for meaning. That search led him to faith-not just in a traditional sense, but as a tool for resilience, healing, and finding purpose. Charles started Breaking the Silence, an organization designed to support veterans and first responders through faith-based and secular resources, giving them a safe place to connect, share, and rebuild. In this episode, Charles and Scott discuss: If you've ever felt lost, disconnected, or like something was missing, this conversation is for you. You don't have to do this alone-there's a tribe waiting for you. Timestamps: Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://the22.orghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/4the22/www.youtube.com/@veteransministryTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

Life after the military can feel like stepping into the unknown. That sense of mission, the camaraderie, the structure-it's suddenly gone. But what if you could rebuild, stronger than before? Peter Gunn, a retired Air Force veteran, knows that struggle firsthand. He transitioned through multiple phases of military service, experienced the mental toll of combat stress, and faced the challenge of redefining himself. Now, he's thriving as a competitive bodybuilder and an author, using his experiences to inspire and empower others. In this episode, Peter shares his journey-from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan to discovering alternative therapies for PTSD and channeling his discipline into bodybuilding and writing. We dive deep into what it takes to stay mission-focused in civilian life, the power of continuous growth, and why embracing new challenges is key to success beyond the uniform. If you're a veteran navigating your own transition, feeling stuck, or looking for motivation to push forward, this episode is for you. Key Highlights: 04:0006:4512:0018:3024:45Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.petergunn.netTranscript View the transcript for this episode.

The war might be over, but for many veterans, the battle continues long after they return home. Sleepless nights, intrusive memories, and the frustration of feeling unheard are all too common. But what if the traditional routes-therapy, medication, the VA-aren't working for you? Army veteran and nurse practitioner Bee Doyle knows that struggle firsthand. After experiencing severe combat trauma, she found herself lost in a cycle of PTSD, alcohol abuse, and self-doubt. The traditional treatment methods weren't enough, so she sought something different. In this episode, Bee shares how alternative healing methods-acupuncture, breathwork, astrology, and energy healing-helped her break free from trauma and reclaim her life. She dives into the science and spirituality behind these practices, why they work for some veterans when conventional therapy doesn't, and how you can begin your own journey toward healing. If you've ever felt like you're out of options, this conversation might just change everything. Timestamps: Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Linehttps://www.doublelibraastrology.com/https://instagram.com/DoublelibracoachingTranscript View the transcript for this episode.