Mind Medicine

Mike Lickteig: Ketamine, Neuroplasticity, and TBI | Ep 56

This week mind medicine podcast is with Dr. Daniel Krawczyk, Deputy Director of Research at The Center for Brain Health at UT Dallas. Dr. Krawczyk is a Cognitive Neuroscientist who specializes in reasoning and decision making. Dr. Krawczyk has led multiple federally funded research studies to evaluate thinking and cognitive performance. His lab uses a diversity of research methods, including behavioral studies, machine learning, brain imaging and brain stimulation. His work has focused on reasoning by analogy, decision framing and cognitive improvement. Brandt and Dr. Dan discuss what neuroscience is, how we reason internally, the importance of values, behavioral bias, and so much more. They also dive into Mission 38's Brain Optimization Lab and Dr. Krawczyks involvement on the Scientific Advisory Board.

This week mind medicine podcast is with Dr. Daniel Krawczyk, Deputy Director of Research at The Center for Brain Health at UT Dallas. Dr. Krawczyk is a Cognitive Neuroscientist who specializes in reasoning and decision making. Dr. Krawczyk has led multiple federally funded research studies to evaluate thinking and cognitive performance. His lab uses a diversity of research methods, including behavioral studies, machine learning, brain imaging and brain stimulation. His work has focused on reasoning by analogy, decision framing and cognitive improvement. Brandt and Dr. Dan discuss what neuroscience is, how we reason internally, the importance of values, behavioral bias, and so much more. They also dive into Mission 38's Brain Optimization Lab and Dr. Krawczyks involvement on the Scientific Advisory Board.

Mind Medicine Podcast - Episode 001

Dealing with Purpose, Passion, and Alignment

Psychedelic Series: Angel #38, Psychedelics & Religion with Brandt McCartney | EP 51

Psychedelic Series: Psychedelics with Ray Cash, Bruce Parkman, and Morris Brossette | EP 50

Psychedelic Series: Psychedelics with Tim Jensen, Ben Smith, and Travis Fishburn | EP 49

Psychedelic Series: How Psychedelics Could Heal an Injured Brain with Jesse Gould | EP 4

In this powerful episode, join Skylar and Brandt as they embark on a transformative journey, exploring the deeply personal and often stigmatized topics of breaking porn and sex addiction. Sharing their own struggles and triumphs, they shed light on the challenges and strategies for overcoming these addictions and finding healing. Diving deeper into personal development, Skylar and Brandt also examine the key qualities that define a true leader. Drawing from their diverse experiences and research, they identify the fundamental traits that separate great leaders from the rest. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a team manager, or simply seeking to elevate your own potential, this discussion provides invaluable insights and practical tips on cultivating leadership qualities that inspire and empower. Tune in as Skylar and Brandt vulnerably share their stories, offering a safe space for listeners to find solace, motivation, and a path forward. This episode will not only help you break free from the chains of addiction but also equip you with the tools to become the confident, compassionate, and effective leader you were meant to be. Get ready to unlock the best version of yourself and lead a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Retired Green Beret Sgt Major Bruce Parkman : Brain injuries, Psychotherapy and Anxiety

DFW Keynotes | EP 45

This episode delves into the captivating origin and profound meaning behind the Dallas-Fort Worth event. Join us as we explore the history and significance of this extraordinary cause that has grown past what we could imagine. Through many live events around the country, encounters, and research, we aim to shatter the stigma surrounding mental health, being vulnerable, and seeking help. Get ready for an absolutely amazing event and if you haven't registered yet, head to www.the38challenge.org to sign up and reserve yourself a spot now!

Join Brandt as he engages in a captivating conversation with guest Mike Erwin in this thought-provoking podcast episode. Delve into the depths of the human experience as they explore the intricate relationship between mental health, personal transformation, the power of creation, and the transformative strength found in embracing vulnerability. Together with Mike, they explore the ways in which creativity and self-expression play pivotal roles in this process. Discover how artistic endeavors and embracing our innate creativity can be powerful catalysts for healing, growth, and personal reinvention. Whether you're seeking inspiration, looking to gain a deeper understanding of mental health, or simply interested in exploring the human spirit, this podcast episode promises to be an enlightening and soul-stirring conversation that encourages self-reflection and opens the door to profound transformation.

Morris Brossette

World Champion cheerleader opens up with Brandt to discuss her mental and physical struggles before and after her traumatic accident, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down. Makayla shares her vulnerable journey from day 1 on social media for the world to see. Sharing that “the physical challenges can be easier to manage than the mental challenges.”

Max Duggan is a football player, formally for TCU, now for the LA Chargers, known for his exceptional skills as a quarterback. He played for the TCU Horned Frogs and gained recognition for his athleticism, leadership, and strong performances on the field. Duggan's athleticism and versatility allowed him to contribute both as a passer and a rusher, making him a dual-threat quarterback. His strong performances on the field earned him recognition in the Big 12 Conference and helped solidify his position as a key player for the Horned Frogs. In this episode, Brandt and Max navigate topics such as overcoming adversity, maintaining resilience in the face of setbacks, and embracing vulnerability as a strength. They share stories of triumph, failures, and pivotal moments that have shaped their journeys. Through their engaging and relatable dialogue, they provide listeners with actionable insights and tools to unlock their own potential. Brandt and Max understand that vulnerability is a key component of personal growth and resilience. They encourage their guests to share their most vulnerable moments, demonstrating that strength lies in embracing our imperfections and learning from setbacks. Listeners will be inspired by the raw and authentic stories shared on the show, realizing that vulnerability is not a weakness but a powerful tool for personal and professional development.

Clint Bruce is a former Navy SEAL, a graduate of the US Naval Academy, decorated athlete, and seasoned entrepreneur. He is dedicated to helping leaders protect, perform, endure, and compete while helping veterans and their families transition successfully from service. In a world that often feels overwhelming, finding solace in human connection and sharing our struggles can be a powerful catalyst for healing. Join Brandt and Clint as they embark on a deeply personal conversation about mental health, navigating tough times, and the importance of maintaining optimism. In this thought-provoking podcast, Brandt and Clint draw from their own experiences to shed light on the challenges many of us face in our daily lives. They openly discuss their journeys through moments of darkness, sharing stories of resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of a positive mindset.

Travis is an Ex-Navy SEAL, the Founder/Owner Intrepid Clothing Co. He got his B.S. in Psychology from Boise State University, he's EMT certified and also a writer and blogger. Travis has experienced the benefits of psychedelic therapy firsthand. He shares his personal story of how he overcame his struggles with anxiety and depression with the help of these substances. Brandt and Travis discuss the science behind these powerful substances and their potential to help people heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction. We also delve into the importance of vulnerability in the healing process and how it can be challenging for people to open up and be vulnerable, even with those they trust. Travis shares his insights on why psychedelics can help people feel more comfortable with vulnerability and how this can lead to deeper healing and personal growth. Travis also shares his own experiences with vulnerability and how it has helped him in his journey towards healing.

Bryan Ray is a dedicated family man and a true patriot. He served 20 years in the U.S. Army, most of which in Special Forces, has travelled the globe and gained a vast amount of experience leading teams through complex mission sets with strategic impact.  Now the Institutional and Government Sales lead at H.V.M.N. – Health Via Modern Nutrition, his passion for working with teams and improving performance provides a natural connection with team owners and trainers with a desire to achieve excellence.  In this episode of the podcast, Bryan and Brandt dive deep into the topics of war, healing, and vulnerability. They explore the ways in which war can have a lasting impact on individuals and communities, and discuss the importance of healing and finding ways to move forward. Throughout the conversation, Bryan and Brandt emphasize the role that vulnerability plays in this process. They discuss how opening up and sharing one's experiences can be a powerful tool for healing, and how creating a safe space for vulnerability can be a key component in moving past trauma. As usual, make sure to rate and leave a review after listening or watching this episode!

On this episode of our podcast we explore the fascinating world of brain research and how it impacts our understanding of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and mental health in veterans and athletes. In this episode, we review recent studies on brain donation by veterans and athletes, and discuss how this selfless act is helping researchers better understand the impact of TBI on the brain and mental health. We delve into the various types of TBI, including concussion and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and explore how these injuries affect the brain in different ways. We also discuss the long-term mental health consequences of TBI, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and how this can impact the lives of veterans and athletes long after their injury.

In this episode of the podcast, Jake and Brandt dive into the topic of vulnerability and how it can be used as a tool for nourishing the soul. They discuss the importance of being open and honest about one's emotions and experiences, and how this can create deeper connections with others. Jake shares his personal journey of learning to embrace vulnerability, and how it has transformed his relationships and his own sense of self. Brandt adds his insights on how vulnerability can be a powerful way to cultivate empathy and compassion for oneself and others. Throughout the episode, they offer practical tips and advice on how to become a soul feeder through vulnerability, including how to identify and communicate your emotions, how to set healthy boundaries, and how to create a safe space for others to be vulnerable with you. Whether you're new to the concept of vulnerability or looking to deepen your understanding and practice, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone seeking to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Tune in and learn how to become a soul feeder through the power of vulnerability.

Flo earned the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor, awarded for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty, for his actions on August 8, 2012 in Afghanistan. Flo is the 19th recipient of the Medal of Honor after the Vietnam War, the first foreign-born recipient since the Vietnam War and the 10th living recipient. President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Groberg on November 12, 2015 at a ceremony at the White House. As a result of his actions, Flo sustained the loss of 45 to 50 percent of his left calf muscle with significant nerve damage, a blown eardrum, and a mild traumatic brain injury. During this podcast, Flo and Brandt talk about: - The demons Flo had to overcome - How love helped him through darkness - The importance of therapy As always, please make sure to like, rate and review the podcast if it serves to be valuable.

This weeks episode of The 38 Challenge podcast is with Greg Van Dyne, a former Green Beret Medic with The 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). After transitioning out of the Special Forces, Greg found himself in a state of depression and without purpose. Brandt and Greg talk about the steps he took to seek help and the things he does daily to work on his mental and physical health. Greg also touches on the importance that vulnerability plays into being a leader and how it is needed in corporate environments. Greg is the Co-Founder of CallSign22, which is an actionable movement that includes calling 22 of your former comrades in 30 days, which will begin on February 22nd !

Have you been considering trying cold exposure to enhance your physical and mental health? This weeks guest, Cold Plunge Cam, shares his story about how cold exposure helps him to manage his anxiety and depression and has gotten him through dark times. Cam shared the greatest lessons that the cold has taught him, including observations from plunging for 31 days straight in a freezing river. Brandt and Cam talk about the similarities between vulnerability and the cold, and how deliberate cold exposure has helped each of their mental health. This episode addresses why you should look into cold exposure, how to get started, and the anecdotal benefits that both Cam and Brandt have seen using the cold as a tool for their mental well being.

Frankie Dades is a Hybrid Athlete who has built a loyal following due to his discipline and drive to become the best version of himself. Brandt and Frankie talk about what it was like seeing your parents divorce, the lonely truths about turning into the person who you know you are meant to be, how to push through challenging obstacles and how all of this plays into being vulnerable. As always, please make sure to like, rate and review The 38 Challenge Podcast so others can be impacted by these powerful conversations!

Jeff is a Marine Corps Veteran, endurance athlete and high performing business executive. In 2019, Jeff was diagnosed with a rare disease that shrinks your esophagus to the point where you cannot swallow solid food. This led to the darkest year of Jeff's life where he was literally starving to death while battling insurance companies who wouldn't cover the necessary procedures. Brandt and Jeff go deep into what that year looked like, how Jeff was able to push through these times with gratitude, perspective and faith, as well as the tools that Jeff used to optimize his performance and mindset.

Matthias Giraud also known as “Super Frenchie” (born on September 24, 1983) is a professional skier and B.A.S.E. jumper. He was born in Evreux, France and grew up skiing at St Gervais-les-Bains/Megeve, France. Matthias is known for combining BASE jumping with skiing and completed several first descents and ski BASE jumps across the globe including the first ski BASE jump off the Matterhorn in Switzerland. Matthias Giraud currently lives in Bend, Oregon. Matthias and Brandt discuss what grief looks like after losing a loved one to suicide, “Super Frenchie's” three existential pillars, the importance of being honest with yourself, and the vital role that vulnerability plays into being a high performing action athlete. Matthias also gives insight into his new short film “Adrenaline Sucks,” an open letter aiming to break the preconceived idea of an adrenaline junkie, a term that misrepresents the reality of action sports. The film premiered in Spain on December 12th and is coming to the U.S soon! You can tune into the podcast on any listening platform or watch it on YouTube, both links in our bio! As always, please rate, review and share our podcast so that more people can be helped by these powerful conversations.

This weeks episode of @the38challenge podcast is a “Best of 2022” with some of our amazing guests! This year we have learned the importance of vulnerability and that nothing is stronger. EVERYONE deals with seasons of darkness, anxiety and depression. This podcasts purpose is to empower our listeners to embrace vulnerability while giving actionable tips on doing hard things and prioritizing mental health. As always, please rate, review and share the podcast so that others can be helped by the conversations!

Wes Whitlock is a US Marine veteran, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. Wes Whitlock served in the USMC for 6 years until transitioning to High Threat Protection Services. Wes has protected some of the most influential government officials and business leaders in the world while serving around the globe. Wes then pursued his passion to become an entrepreneur where he started Rogue American Apparel and Invader coffee, brands that inspire to “remind you of your purpose and responsibility to pick up the shield you dropped, whether it became too heavy, or you felt you were no longer "purposeful." Wes and Brandt discuss the darkest point of Wes's life, what it looked like, how to look inward with meditation, prayer and study, and the importance of vulnerability in warrior culture.

Episode 26 with Dr. Jess Garza is live! Jess Garza is an accomplished global business, sport and transformational coach, speaker and author who holds a PhD in performance psychology, a master's in clinical mental health and a master's in sport excessive psychology. Known as “the queen of applied sciences,” Jess has worked with some of the worlds most elite athletes and warriors. In this episode Brandt and Jess discuss anxiety and depression in high performers, how to change your internal dialogue, energy between individuals, and how it all plays into vulnerability. Make sure to check it out tomorrow and as usual leave a rating and review!

Episode 25 of The 38 Challenge Podcast with Ryan Manion is live! Ryan Manion is an author, keynote speaker, podcast host, and advocate for the Veteran community. Ryan lost her brother, USMC 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, to war and her mother to cancer, and she's the daughter of a retired Marine. A wife and mom to three, she is no stranger to resiliency and how to struggle well in life. Now the president of one of the nation's leading veteran service organizations – the Travis Manion Foundation – Ryan works to empower veterans and families of fallen heroes to inspire future generations to change. Ryan and Brandt talk about losing their brothers, turning grief into purpose, what anxiety and depression can look like, and what it means to live a resilient life.

Clint Bruce is a former Navy SEAL, a graduate of the US Naval Academy, decorated athlete, and seasoned entrepreneur. He is dedicated to helping leaders protect, perform, endure, and compete while helping veterans and their families transition successfully from service. Clint jumps on the podcast for the second time to reflect on the original conversation he and Brandt McCartney had on the creation of The 38 Challenge, the progress it has made, and where it is heading. Clint also gives his wisdom on vulnerability, the equation for being vulnerable, and how it creates more effective warriors.

Ben Smith is a fitness and nutrition coach, entrepreneur, Army Veteran, and mental health advocate based in Los Angeles. With more than a decade working in health and fitness, he has led programming at respected strength training gyms in LA, developed online training for high performing individuals all over the world, and currently travels the globe as performance coach for clients in the music industry. Ben leverages his platform to promote holistic mind body wellness by candidly sharing his own struggles along the way.

Tim Kennedy is a Ranger qualified Special Forces Sniper with deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and multiple other deployments around the world. He is also one of the top-ranked mixed martial arts fighters in the world with a black belt in jiu-jitsu. Prior to his retirement from professional mixed martial arts, he was ranked among the top Middleweights in the UFC. Tim is a seasoned entrepreneur, an incredible father and husband, and an advocate for veterans mental health. Tim and Brandt talk about living in darkness, how to break free from it, what it means to wear your scars, how vulnerability plays into being a warrior, Let's Talk TBI and a whole lot more. Make sure to give the podcast a listen, rate and review so that it can continue to grow and help others understand that vulnerability = strength.

Those years were spent in the military's most secretive and elite Special Operations unit, Delta Force. As an Operator and CSM, Tom fought in and lead countless high profile military missions including Operation Red Dawn (Saddam Hussein's capture) and the Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down) which was the longest sustained firefight since Vietnam. That 18-hour firefight ended with Tom, along with several of his team mates, running the Mogadishu Mile to safety. Although the physical, mental, and emotional toll of war had compounded over the years, Tom never faced his Post-Traumatic Stress symptoms and in 2013 he nearly ended his life. Had it not been a text from his now wife, Jen, he would have joined the 22 veterans who commit suicide every single day. Tom and Jen founded the All Secure Foundation to help provide training to Veterans transitioning out of the military, and often breach the importance of vulnerability in their work. Brandt, Tom and Jen talk about The Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down), what darkness looked like in Tom's life, how Tom and Jen work through this darkness, TBI treatment, and how all of this lead to the amazing work Tom and Jen are doing All Secure Foundation . We get vulnerable, fast. Please continue to rate, review and share these life saving conversations!

Ray “Cash” Care is a Navy SEAL veteran with multiple tours and other numerous overseas security details. Upon leaving SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team Two (SDV-2), Ray turned his passion and SEAL Team experience to the world of self-improvement and team building. Ray is not the lead instructor of The Modern Day Knight Project, a “a 75-hour self-development program for men who want to break free from the lower version of themselves,” The Squire Program and the LTD Project. Ray is in the business of building men into purpose driven leaders, and believes that vulnerability is at the core of becoming great. On this weeks episode, Brandt and Ray talk about doing hard things, conquering your inner voice, showing love as a Navy SEAL, and of course, Ray shows vulnerability by sharing his darkest moments.

This weeks episode is with Tim Jensen, a Marine veteran Chief Strategy Officer/Co-Owner at Grunt Style LLC. Grunt Style is a fashion and apparel company who's mission is to be the leader instilling pride in self, in our military, and in our country. Tim logged over 5,000 miles and 200+ combat missions within the violent Triangle of Death in Iraq. During this time he witnessed one his best friends die, leading to survivors guilt and intense trauma later in life. Tim describes building a wall around himself and his emotions while simultaneously wearing a mask that was his ego. Through an experience with Psychedelics', Tim was able to face his ego and transform into a man who prioritizes love and compassion, and who leads with his heart. Tim's biggest piece of advice is to show up. No matter what you have going on, just be present and show up. Whether it is physically showing up, a handshake, or asking someone how they are doing. Always make sure to be present. This week, Brandt and Tim talk about : Vulnerability Psychedelics Showing up Facing your Ego

This weeks episode is with Dr. Gino Collura (Dr. G) , a behavioral scientist with a keen expertise in human optimization, neuroplasticity, resiliency, combative stress, and warrior culture. Dr. G has been sought after by United States Army Special Operations as well as the Joint Special Operations University to conduct trainings and workshops on resiliency, psychological optimization, and cultural consonance. His deep understanding of the warrior ethos combines modern day science with combat tactics to enhance the understanding that warriors have of the battlefield, their comrades, their families and most importantly themselves. This week, Brandt and Gino talk about : Finding your purpose, Jiu-Jitsu and Resiliency, Where Vulnerability plays into warrior culture and mental toughness. Tune in to this weeks episode to hear another powerful, vulnerable conversation!!

Jason Redman is a severely wounded warrior, NY Times and Amazon bestselling author, veteran advocate, business leader, and acclaimed leadership and resilience speaker. From a potentially career-ending leadership failure, Jason fought back to redemption and respect only to find himself shot eight times including a round. Jason now motivates and inspires audiences across the country with his remarkable journey of leadership, redemption, and building a relentless Overcome Mindset. Jason has merged all his lessons learned into relatable content teaching others how to lead themselves, get off the X and Overcome all. Join us for this weeks episode as Brandt and Jason talk about leadership, brain injuries, the darkest moment of Jason's Life and vulnerability has played a part in it all.

Season two of The 38 challenge podcast kicks off with our first in person episode with Benjamin Bunn. Ben, otherwise known as “Coach Bunny” is a former Green Beret turned seasoned entrepreneur. Ben is the owner of Cigar City Crossfit in Tampa, Flordia and is the Director of Military Affairs and Business Development at Bravo Sierra. During this episode, Brandt and Ben talk about Ben's worst and best moment of his life, both revolving around the birth of his son. They talk about being straight forward and honest when asking for help, even when it feels so uncomfortable. Tune into to this powerful conversation to hear about vulnerability, parenthood, and how asking for help can lead to growth as a parent, professional, comrade, and friend.

This weeks conversation is with combat veteran Dallas Knight, the first women featured on The 38 Challenge Podcast. Dallas joined the Army at 17 years old, three months before the terrorist attack on 9/11. Today, Dallas is a successful business women, podcast host, and passionate mentor. Brandt and Dallas talk about what it's like being a women in the warrior culture and how women play such a vital role in shattering the stigma. The two talk about overcoming trauma and not letting your past define you, as well as how to turn that trauma into purpose. Our most vulnerable podcast yet, Brandt and Dallas go into detail about the darkest and most traumatic experiences of their lives and how they turned them into helping others. 

Solo Podcast 2 – Vulnerability is Strength. In response to our Mental Health Awareness month challenge, founder Brandt McCartney jumps on the podcast by himself to show vulnerability in the best way he knows how. During this episode, Brandt talks about what vulnerability means to him, what vulnerability is not, the life of Captain Brewer, tips on vulnerability, and he talks about ways in which he struggles every day with mental health. Tune into to hear a very raw and vulnerable conversation and see how you too can be vulnerable.

Earl Lundy III is a third generation Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient where he served as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. On March 3rd, 2008 during deployment in Afghanistan, a car bomb blew up outside the building where Earl and his team were stationed. For five hours, Earl didn't know if he was dead or alive, and for five hours he was buried under debris.  Earl had major reconstructive surgery on almost every part of his body and fought to be able to walk again, with internal wounds that struck even deeper. Through the other side of this experience became a vulnerable warrior who's life purpose is to serve and push others to become the best, most intentional versions of themselves.  Tune in to this weeks episode to hear Brandt and Early talk through their life experiences, how helping others leads to happiness, and how just taking one small first step can lead to a life of service. 

Benjamin "Bo" Snelson grew up in Houston, TX with a chip on his shoulder as he had goals of playing Division 1 football since a child. Bo's father is also a legendary Highschool Football coach, so Bo was always pushed, by himself and by others, to be a hard nosed warrior on the football field. Bo, known as the toughest player on the field, played football at The Naval Academy with Captain Mathew Brewer where Bo was a four year letterman and offensive captain his senior year. After his time at the Naval Academy, Bo served in the Marine Corps with Matt for four more years in Oahu Hawaii. Bo and Brandt talk about the toughest mental battles of his life, Bo's relationship with Matt, and how vulnerability has helped Bo become a better person and leader. 

Bruce Parkman, known as "PakMan" during his times of service, is a retired Green Baret who helped cofound The Green Baret Foundation. After serving his country, Bruce went on to start eight different businesses and has been a serial entrepreneur ever since.  Bruce lost his son, Mac, to suicide which is why Brandt and Bruce were introduced to each other. Bruce has started a foundation, The Mac Parkman foundation, which partners with like minded organizations to spread awareness on sub-concussive injuries, particularly in the youth.  On this episode, Bruce and Brandt draw the similarities between difficult physical challenges and how they relate to vulnerability, the lessons you learn from making mistakes, and how the two men plan to honor their loved ones.

John Edward Heath, otherwise known as "Carbon Fiber John" has a must hear story. John grew up in and out of the foster care system in the DC area. He then went on to serve in the Marine Corps, and after became a trusted coach and mentor at The Naval Academy. Throughout his time of service, John lost both his best friend and significant other to suicide. On top of all of this, John was in an accident that left him losing his leg.  Through all of this adversity became a man who wants to be seen as nothing more than a human, "John Edward Heath", instead of the tragedies he has faced. Today, John is a Paralympic athlete training for the 2024 and 2026 Paralympics in Track & Field and Parasnowboarding. Brandt and John talk about the destruction of a victim mentality and how vulnerability plays a part in escaping this viscous cycle. They talk about leaving a legacy for their loved ones who took their lives, and the legacy they want to leave for others. 

During these solo pods, host and founder of The 38 Challenge, Brandt McCartney will speak on the lessons he has learned from losing his brother, Captain Mathew Brewer to suicide. The first lesson is that life is precious, and Brandt speaks on Matt's life and legacy. Brandt also speaks on the reason behind the podcast, why he is suited to lead discussions on vulnerability, and the darkest moments in his own life.

WARNING: This podcast gives insight into suicide, a topic that may be triggering or inappropriate for some listeners. Jon Macaskill is a retired Navy SEAL Commander who is now focused on helping others improve their mental health and live their best lives through mindfulness and meditation.  He is the cohost of the Men Talking Mindfulness podcast and lives on a small farm in Colorado Springs with his wife and three young children.  Brandt and Jon start the podcast with a quick grounding meditation practice, and quickly get into a very raw and vulnerable conversation. Jon talks about how vulnerability helped him become a better leader and human, and how he escaped a deep depression following the death of his comrades during Operation Red Wing.

Joel "Thor" Neeb is a Former F-15 Mission Commander, USAF. As an F-15 pilot, Thor escorted the U.S. President through the sky and flew missions to ensure the safety of the country after the attacks of 9/11. He was the tactical leader of 300 of the most senior combat pilots in the Air Force and he oversaw the execution of a $150M/year flight program.  In 2010, Thor was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer and had a 15% chance of living. Today, Thor competes on America Ninja Warrior and is leading strategic transformation at the fourth largest software company in the world, VMWare.  On this episode, Thor and Brandt talk about the similarities between cancer and depression, the importance of faith, and how to utilize vulnerability in order to turn the "bitter" into "better".