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Bob kicks off the show talking about the new report on the COVID vaccine. Bob then welcomes Colorado State Senator Mark Baisley to talk about their new Bill that makes it a crime to misgender or deadname someone. Bob is then joined By Corporal Christopher Miller of the United State Maine Corp Retired. In a moving Story, Chris talk about all of his injuries including the loss of his leg and his time at the Travis Mills Foundation. Then in a surprise call we hear from Travis Mills, who has some fun with Chris and talks about his foundation. Bob is then joined by Gabe Guidarini to talk HB1 and trying to stop foreign adversaries from buying land here here in Ohio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Pioneers at Work, Ellen Miller interviews Heather Labbe, the Executive Director of the Travis Mills Foundation. Heather shares her journey from a finance background to leading a nonprofit that supports veterans with critical injuries. She discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, offers practical advice about mentorship, and encourages listeners to be bold in seeking guidance and the value of building authentic relationships. Heather emphasizes the need for aspiring leaders to be bold and recognize their worth, encouraging others to seek mentorship and support within their communities. The conversation concludes with Heather highlighting inspiring pioneers in her life and how they have shaped her leadership journey.This episode if brought to you by MPowered, a woman owned Executive Coaching and Leadership Development company focused on building people and teams that get things done.
Inspirational Vet Travis Mills joins to talk about his latest project Check out The Travis Mills Foundation on IG
Bob kicks off the show talking about the saga of the food bank that continues on. Bob then welcomes AG Dave Yost to the show to talk about his pushback against the courts on the Safe Act. They also talk about the death penalty in Ohio. Bob then welcomes Dave Mortach to the show to talk about the market and the raffle to benefit the Travis Mills Foundation. Bob the talks with Senator Bernie Moreno about the Food Bank vuts that don't exist. They also talk about the Trump tariffs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Prepare to be amazed by the incredible journey of Travis Mills, a former U.S. Army staff sergeant who lost all four limbs in an IED explosion during his third deployment to Afghanistan. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, Travis refused to let his injuries define him, embarking on a remarkable path of recovery, resilience, and reinvention. In this captivating episode, you'll witness Travis' transformation from a young, athletic soldier to a motivational speaker, author, and founder of a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting injured veterans and their families. Hear firsthand how he navigated the physical and emotional challenges of his recovery, rediscovered his purpose, and inspired countless others with his unwavering spirit. Prepare to be moved, empowered, and reminded that no obstacle is too great to overcome when you possess the determination and courage of a true warrior. This is a story that will leave you in awe and remind you that the human spirit is truly unbreakable. Timestamps: 00:49 Introduction to Travis Mills 01:25 Early Life and Military Career 05:10 Marriage, Kids & Deployments in Afghanistan 11:44 The Wild West of the Third Deployment 16:27 Bomb Explosion & Devastating Injuries 24:45 Arriving to the Hospital & The Reality of His Injuries 27:30 Becoming a Quadriplegic & a Way to Recovery 31:01 Overcoming Obstacles & the Importance of Perspective. 33:55 Adaptive Sports and Family Bonding 36:45 Founding the Travis Mills Foundation 39:45 Pushing limits, starting new businesses, and finding purpose 42:05 Finding the Right Perspective 43:35 Final Thoughts Connect to Travis:
SSG Travis Mills and Dave Mortach join Bob on Veterans Day to talk about the Travis Mills Foundation that helps recalibrated veterans. Travis Mills is a vet that lost all four limbs after a bomb exploded in Afghanistan. Dave Mortach, from Mortach Financial, has helped raise millions of dollars for the foundation. Bob also has a very special announcement regarding your chance to win a trip to Normandy and help the charity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When tragedy strikes, it can be difficult to know how to move forward. A positive outlook and determination to keep going can make all the difference in the recovery process.This week's guest has lived through tragedy and triumphed despite serious challenges. Retired Staff Sgt. Travis Mills is a quadruple amputee who founded the Travis Mills Foundation to help others learn to live life bigger by adopting his motto: “Never give up. Never quit.”Check out this week's episode and get inspired to overcome obstacles and thrive!You'll learn how to alter your perspective for the better, how to recalibrate your life in a “new normal,” and how to turn tragedy into an opportunity for good.LEARN MORE:> >Learn about the Travis Mills Foundation and how you can help (https://www.travismills.org)> >Read about Mills's story in his memoir, “Tough as They Come” (https://www.amazon.com/Tough-They-Come-Travis-Mills/dp/1101904801)> > Read Mills's book, “Bounce Back: 12 Warrior Principles to Reclaim and Recalibrate Your Life” (https://www.amazon.com/Bounce-Back-Warrior-Principles-Recalibrate/dp/0306831767?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=&linkCode=sl1&tag=thensls-20&linkId=fb0964cdb7a2029d4bc36927cb42880d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn Mills's advice for those in physical or emotional battles who want to achieve more and live better (https://thens.ls/48F000o)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members!
It is Veterans Day. Please thank a Veteran today! Bob kicks off the show with a tribute to Vets and the return of the Top 9 At 9. Bob the gets the thoughs on all things DC with Congressman Jim Jordan, They talk election and what is going on in the Senate. Bob then talks with Rep Josh Williams and gets some of his thoughts on how the minority community was feeling about the election. Bob is then joined by SSG Travis Mills and Dave Mortach. Mortach, a great client of the station and very generous man when it comes to charity and Travis Mills who is a Veteran who lost all four limbs in Afghanistan. They talk about the Travis Mills Foundation, which helps Veterans, and how you can help. Bob also has a great announcement on how the show will be raising money and you can win a trip to Normandy. Bob takes your calls to wrap up the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This month's community spotlight focuses on Bright Wealth Management and its support of the Travis Mills Foundation.
When you can practice confidence to leverage humility that can temper your stubbornness - the possibilities are endless. This week a true American hero joins the pod to break down this week's Shawnism: practice stubbornness with confident humility. Travis Mills, just one of five surviving quadruple amputees from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, successful entrepreneur and business owner, and founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, went from sitting in a hospital wondering 'why' to being the push behind several successful businesses. Now coming up on his 12-year anniversary of being injured, Travis serves as a true inspiration and the perfect example of practiced humility and confidence. Join us as we discuss: Coping with challenges through humor and resilienceYour life as a reflection of the choices you make Entrepreneurship, work-life balance and building confidence
When you can practice confidence to leverage humility that can temper your stubbornness — the possibilities are endless. This week a true American hero joins the pod to break down this week's Shawnism: practice stubbornness with confident humility. Travis Mills, just one of five surviving quadruple amputees from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, successful entrepreneur and business owner, and founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, went from sitting in a hospital wondering ‘why' to being the push behind several successful businesses. Now coming up on his 12-year anniversary of being injured, Travis serves as a true inspiration and the perfect example of practiced humility and confidence. Join us as we discuss: Coping with challenges through humor and resilienceYour life as a reflection of the choices you make Entrepreneurship, work-life balance and building confidence
We all encounter radical challenges, and we face big choices about how we approach life in the most challenging moments and learn to survive in – maybe even thrive. Today, we are joined by a combat veteran, retired US Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, as he shares his challenges and the choices he has made to get to where he is today. Travis Mills is a serial entrepreneur, the driving force behind the Travis Mills Foundation, and the author of Bounce Back: A playbook for facing life's toughest challenges with grace and gusto. Make sure you listen all the way to the end. You don't want to miss any of Travis's unrelenting spirit, wisdom and humor. You're listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let's go. Travis Mills on his Military Service and Experience Christopher starts off the conversation by inquiring about Travis's motivation for joining the military. Travis recounts feeling directionless after college, and was prompted by family advice to choose a military path for personal growth and benefits. Fascinated by infantry roles, Travis enlisted for a signing bonus. He breezed through basic training due to his athletic prowess and later engaged in military ground fighting tactics, drawing on his childhood interest in karate. Despite his combat skills, Travis values self-control and notes the discipline instilled by martial arts. Travis Mills on Mental Toughness Travis reflects on being featured on a magazine cover for his mental toughness rather than physical appearance. He also appreciates the recognition for his foundation work. Christopher acknowledges the disparity between modeling and true toughness. Travis also shares instances where he had to assert himself, highlighting his ability to de-escalate conflicts but also assert authority when needed. He explains how his military background balances his jovial persona, noting people's tendency to underestimate him. He emphasizes the importance of professionalism and corrective measures in his businesses, showcasing his leadership style derived from his military experience. From Military to Entrepreneurship Christopher admires Travis's entrepreneurship and proposes introducing him to Iron Mike Stedman, a fellow Marine and entrepreneur. Stedman's mission involves helping inner-city kids through boxing and assisting veteran entrepreneurs with their businesses. Travis expresses his belief in pursuing dreams and betting on oneself, citing personal experiences in entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges, Travis advocates for seizing opportunities and embracing failure as a motivator. He shares his ventures in house flipping and marina ownership, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and taking calculated risks. Travis's resilience and clarity of purpose derived from his military background inform his entrepreneurial journey. To hear more from Travis Mills and his journey and challenges from being in the military to being an entrepreneur, download and listen to this episode. Bio Born and raised in Vassar, Michigan, United States Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated veteran, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. In addition to being the founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, Travis also serves as the President of the Board of Directors. Travis has achieved his vision for the Foundation by bringing together a talented array of experts who masterfully accomplish the Foundation's mission. Per Travis's lead, the team at the Foundation are not only respected colleagues, they are family. Links Connect with Travis Mills! Travis Mills Foundation | Instagram We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him,
Travis Mills is a Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and advocate for veterans and amputees. On April 10, 2012, Mills was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He became one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. He recovered in 19 months while at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. In September 2013, Mills and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's great outdoors. Today on the show we discuss: Travis's life changing injury and how he turned pain into purpose, what parenting and marriage has been like for him since losing his limbs, his message to people that are feeling lost and in the depths of despair, how he found small wins and rebuilt his self confidence, why anyone can overcome the biggest adversities in their life if they don't give up, how to develop mental strength and deal with ruminating thoughts, how Travis reinvented himself and reshaped his identity and much more. ⚠ WELLNESS DISCLAIMER ⚠ Please be advised; the topics related to mental health in my content are for informational, discussion, and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your current condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard from your favorite creator, on social media, or shared within content you've consumed. If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help: Emergency Medical Services—911 If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. SAMHSA addiction and mental health treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) and https://www.samhsa.gov Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When tragedy strikes, it can be difficult to know how to move forward. A positive outlook and determination to keep going can make all the difference in the recovery process.This week's guest has lived through tragedy and triumphed despite serious challenges. Retired Staff Sgt. Travis Mills is a quadruple amputee who founded the Travis Mills Foundation to help others learn to live life bigger by adopting his motto: “Never give up. Never quit.”Check out this week's episode and get inspired to overcome obstacles and thrive!You'll learn how to alter your perspective for the better, how to recalibrate your life in a “new normal,” and how to turn tragedy into an opportunity for good.LEARN MORE:>>Learn about the Travis Mills Foundation and how you can help. (https://www.travismills.org)>>Read about Mills's story in his memoir, “Tough as They Come.” (https://www.amazon.com/Tough-They-Come-Travis-Mills/dp/1101904801)>>Read Mills's newest book, “Bounce Back: 12 Warrior Principles to Reclaim and Recalibrate Your Life.” (https://www.amazon.com/Bounce-Back-Warrior-Principles-Recalibrate/dp/0306831767?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=&linkCode=sl1&tag=thensls-20&linkId=fb0964cdb7a2029d4bc36927cb42880d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn Mills's advice for those in physical or emotional battles who want to achieve more and live better. (https://thens.ls/3vwaOy9)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop
From the battlefield to the speaking stage, Travis Mills is here to share his inspiring story of resilience and recovery. of resilience with Travis Mills. Co-host BC Sanders. About: BOUNCE BACK12 Warrior Principles to Reclaim and Recalibrate Your LifeBy Travis Mills New York Times bestselling author and retired US Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, who has nearly a decade of experience coaching others to overcome adversity, shares strategies for healing and moving forward—which don't just apply to those returning from war, but resonate with anyone who has experienced severe trauma. Featuring his trademark humor and relatable stories, Bounce Back helps anyone confront trauma, understand their emotions, and take back control of their lives. Thousands have been wounded in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, five have survived quadruple amputee injuries, and retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills is one of them. Since an IED in Afghanistan exploded back in April 2012 and changed the course of his life, Mills became an advocate for veterans and amputees, helping them through his foundation, The Travis Mills Foundation. His foundation helps veterans and their families coping with physical injuries, and offers a program called Warrior PATHH for combat veterans and first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress.Make sure to check out Jason on IG @drjasonpiccolo
A 3x NBA Champion shares how iconic Coach Dean Smith and the North Carolina community supported him through the darkest chapter of his life - the trauma of his father taking the life of his mother before taking his own. Scott and Travis connect on their (very different) shared trauma and being able to empower others by sharing their learned life lessons - in Scott's case; lessons from former teammates Michael Jordan and LeBron James.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
The US Army Green Beret, football player and actor joins the American Hero Show.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
In this week's episode of The Venue Rx Podcast, our host Jonathan Aymin sits down with Taryn Blake, the owner of Taryn Blake Events to discuss various aspects of the wedding industry. She emphasizes the importance of local market and competitive analysis for wedding venues, as well as the benefits of working with an established planning team rather than hiring in-house staff. Taryn shares insights on managing multiple venues, finding and retaining great staff, and the challenges and opportunities of scaling and future growth. The conversation also covers topics such as all-inclusive weddings, a new approach to wedding rehearsals, the impact of price point on bookings, and strategies for attracting higher dollar clients. The episode concludes with advice on navigating challenges in the industry and the importance of adding value to services. About Our Guest: Taryn Blake Events is a woman-owned, award-winning event planning firm serving Central PA and MD as well as destination/international locations. Recognized by FORBES as an Entrepreneur Revolutionizing the Event Industry, she established TBE in 2010, and her now 9-person team brings together over 60 combined years and 500+ events worth of experience creating modern, trendsetting corporate events and social gatherings. She provides venue and vendor consulting services on marketing to next-gen clientele, owning and operating a space, design and layout, sales systems, startup business best practices, staff training (and more) as well as podcast and in-person speaking engagements. In less than 5 years, multiple consulting clients of hers have topped multiple $6-and-7 figure revenues while working together. Prior to solely operating TBE, her decade of experience as the Director of Marketing for two large Central PA firms provides a unique advantage to her clients, combining the logistics of events with marketing, branding and PR - while understanding how to bring multiple stakeholders (and budgets) together. Her work and expertise has been featured in FORBES, TODAY, WSJ, HuffPost, TheKnot, Brides, Susquehanna Style, Celebrate Gettysburg and more. She has worked alongside The United Way, Travis Mills Foundation, Four Chaplains Veteran Foundation, various non-profits and others in her communities. Outside of events, she's a wife, soccer, baseball + gymnastics mom, loves her rescue dogs, mentors other wedding entrepreneurs, teaches and speaks on the industry and strives to leave this place better than she found it. Find Her Here: Website: https://www.tarynblakeevents.com/ Email: taryn@tarynblakeevents.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarynblakeevents/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taryn-kuhn/
This month's community spotlight showcases Bright Wealth Management, its support of the Travis Mills Foundation, and the Mortach Million Dollar Challenge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Founder of Friends of Firefighters joins the American Hero ShowSupport the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Phil and Josh come back for E183 of the GSP interviewing the 2017 ARCA Series Champion and Maine House of Representative Member Austin Theriault. The guys talk to Austin about his racing return at the Oxford 250 super late model race and his results at Oxford Plains and his involvement with the Travis Mills Foundation and how this race will assist in fund raising. Phil and Josh also ask Austin about his driver development program and connection with Team Hornaday, his NASCAR career in all three major series and his thoughts on the differences in how drivers behave in and out of the race car today relative to when Austin was a prospect himself. Josh asks Austin about his other role as a House Member for his local district and what how the responsibilities there coordinate with racing. Phil and Josh then get into the Cup and XFinity events at Watkins Glen, which saw dominant performances for William Byron and Ty Gibbs respectively. However, the XFinity event had an interesting finish due to the ongoing rivalry between Gibbs and eventual race winner Sam Mayer. The guys get into the issues with the Next Gen Car and how it has affected the product, the pace of the race itself and what they saw between the two young guns. Other key players and points are discussed heading to Daytona. The crew gets into their drafts for the FallBrawl fantasy football league and how they both got the worst grades based on analytics but definitely aren't out of the mix. Josh discusses injuries and key battles for the Jaguars while Phil laments the continued QB saga behind Brock Purdy for San Francisco. A leaner GSP Roundup covers the SRX season finale at Lucas Oil Raceway, NHRA at Brainerd, MotoGP/Moto2 at Austria, Supercars at The Bend, Indy NXT at Gateway, F2 at Zandvoort and IMSA GT at Virginia International Raceway. Formula 1 returns from their summer break for the Dutch Grand Prix, with Phil and Josh previewing and picking whoever will finish behind FL. IndyCar has their last oval race of 2023 at Gateway, so the guys pick whether they believe Josef Newgarden will sweep all of them or not along with wild cards. NASCAR Cup and XFinity race at Daytona, which means the Tate Fogleman Algorithm makes a return. The crew make their picks and wild cards while Josh lets us know who TF believes could win at the World's Center of Racing. The Craftsman Truck Series returns to the Milwaukee Mile for their second playoff race, so can Ty Majeski make it 2-2 or will one of the other contenders advance? Josh lets us know about all things gaming and iRacing in the Sim Segment before Show Close.
Air Force Colonel (Ret.) John Flynn shares unforgettable memories from his time transporting war-weary troops home as the pilot of a C-17, especially the medevac missions. He talks about how the leadership and teamwork skills he learned in the service paved the way for his success on Capitol Hill and as a Vice President of Administration at MGM Resorts.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Bob shares how he accepted help and learned from the torment of awful nightmares years after his service in the Air Force as a B-52 navigator and was able to find peace again through years of treatment. Bob talks about resilience and says his book “From Service to Success” is about overcoming adversity and realizing that our best days are not behind us, but in front of us.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Travis and Tim talk about how things are going in their lives and the latest with the Foundation in Maine as the fourth season of the AHS begins . They also excitedly preview the incredible lineup of guests this season!Travis Mills Foundation Executive Director Heather Hemphill joins the episode to provide an update on the latest great news on how they are expanding to help more recalibrated veterans, first responders and their families.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Maine's hometown hero U.S. Army SSG (Ret.) Travis Mills sits down with Alex in this episode of Serra Speaks. Alex and Travis talk about his unparalleled service to our nation and all of his business ventures, from restauranteur to brand ambassador…to a possible future run for office! Learn more about The Travis Mills Foundation: travismillsfoundation.org. Find Rebel for Good merch: rebelforgood.com. Serra Speaks is a production of Serra Public Affairs. If you haven't already, please review us on Apple Podcasts! It's an important way to help new listeners discover the show. Episode transcripts are available on our website. Say hello on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Living as one of only five surviving quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Using humor to break the ice and open doors for success. Leading the way for fellow veterans to find healing and community. Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills discusses his alive day, the 19-month road to physical recovery, and how his experience shaped his mission for the Travis Mills Foundation. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast:Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media:Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion FoundationMEET Travis MillsTravis Mills Foundation WebsiteTravis Mills Foundation InstagramTravis Mills Foundation FacebookTravis Mills InstagramTravis Mills Facebook
A Peabody Award winning Investigative Reporter for his overseas reporting from Pakistan and Afghanistan in the wake of 9/11, Bob was seriously injured by a roadside bomb that struck his vehicle in Iraq on January 29, 2006. A mere 13 months after the harrowing event; Bob returned to the airwaves and chronicled his recovery and the injuries he suffered from the attack.Bob and Travis both share war stories of their nearly fatal experiences being struck by an IED while overseas and their incredible recoveries. Bob shares the projects he's working on now and why he is so proud of them, especially since he gets to share the spotlight with his children.Support the showClick here for a special offer for current and future retirees from our financial education partner, Retirement You.Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation here
Today on the show Jayson is talking with Travis Mills, a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis, along with his wife Kelsey, founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit veterans who have been injured in the line of duty. After losing portions of both his arms and legs from an IED in Afghanistan Travis has made the most of life, starting multiple businesses and a foundation to help people in a similar situation as his, he has thrived after most would give up, or back down. Never give up, never quit, the simple yet impactful words from Travis that he lives by. You can't let anything hold you back, no matter the circumstances. --- HIGHLIGHTS: The inner battle of "Me vs. My Injury" Peaks and Valleys in both life and business Trials and tribulations heroes go through Recalibrating Travis' life to come out of a dark time in life --- Travis Mill's Social Media Links Website: https://travismillsfoundation.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssgtravismills/ --- OWN YOUR POWER HARD-COPY AND SOFT-COPY IS OUT NOW! Immerse yourself with 8 fundamental life-changing principles, worksheets to create your own map, and how to reach another level of your game! It's all Real Life Stories! It's You vs You! “It's a reflection of everything I've been through to give guidance and key steps to people in order to live a life with zero excuses” Warning: This Book is unsuitable for pessimists, excuse-makers, and haters! --- SOCIAL MEDIA: Check out Jayson's website: https://www.jaysonwaller.com/ Check out the Podcast website: https://letstalkbam.com Follow Business and Money Podcast, Formerly True Underdog; and Jayson Waller on your favorite social media channels and digital podcast platforms: https://linktr.ee/businessandmoneypodcast Business and Money, formerly True Underdog is a Top 3 Entrepreneurship podcast on Apple hosted by Jayson Waller, Former CEO of POWERHOME Solar, one of the fastest-growing private companies in the USA, and his high-profile guests share motivational tips, inspiring stories, and business-building lessons to help each listener grow in their entrepreneurial journey. Reach out to Jayson directly at: Jaysonwaller1979@gmail.com --- TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - PRELUDE 00:40 - INTRODUCTION 01:40 - Introducing Travis Mills 01:40 - How did Travis Mills come out of the dark time in his life? 02:30 - “Me vs. My Injury” 03:45 - We are human and we all struggle, so we need to have a support mechanism 05:00 - Recalibrating my life to find out what the new thing in Travis Mills' life was going to be 06:00 - It's okay to move forward and pivot in life, it's about growth 09:15 - The part that Travis Mills is building 11:00 - Building on the kid's relationship that shows relentlessness 14:00 - Travis Mills Brewery that he is excited about 16:25 - Building a team is everything for success 17:45 - Get off the sidelines when the opportunity is calling 18:30 - Peaks and Valleys are ALWAYS going to happen in business and in life 20:00 - Take a chance and just go for it 20:30 - Jocko Fuel 22:00 - Starting a clothing business 24:45 - The story of the buffalo and the cow 27:30 - Trials and tribulations 29:45 - “Tough as They Come” and “High on Travis” 32:30 - END --- Don't forget to subscribe to the BUSINESS AND MONEY, FORMERLY TRUE UNDERDOG PODCAST with over 2 million downloads!! LOVE YOUR HATERS! BAM! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 659 - Travis Mills is a First Class Father and Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant. He joins me for a Special Veterans Day Episode of First Class Fatherhood. On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit. He is the Founder of the Travis Mills Foundation https://www.travismills.org He is a motivational speaker and NYT Bestselling Author of TOUGH AS THEY COME https://a.co/d/aR70beX In this Episode, Travis shares his Fatherhood journey which includes two children. He describes his life as a quadruple amputee father. He discusses the relationship with his wife before and after his injuries. He talks about his foundation and his commitment to helping veterans. He shares a Veterans Day message for those who served. He offers some great advice for new or soon-to-be dads and more! First Class Fatherhood who like to say Thank You to all the veterans! May God Bless you and your Families! My Pillow - https://mystore.com/fatherhood Promo Code: Fatherhood FamilyMade - https://familymade.com FamilyMade Newsletter - https://news.familymade.com First Class Fatherhood: Advice and Wisdom from High-Profile Dads - https://bit.ly/36XpXNp Watch First Class Fatherhood on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCD6cjYptutjJWYlM0Kk6cQ?sub_confirmation=1 More Ways To Listen - https://linktr.ee/alec_lace Follow me on instagram - https://instagram.com/alec_lace?igshid=ebfecg0yvbap For information about becoming a Sponsor of First Class Fatherhood please hit me with an email: FirstClassFatherhood@gmail.com
In this episode, you are introduced to Travis Mills. Travis is the president of the Travis Mills Foundations and 1 of 5 quadruple amputees to survive their injuries sustained in combat. Travis talks about all the highs and lows he faced and what Never Give Up, Never Quit means to him. His foundation helps veterans recalibrate from their injuries by spending a week with their families at their retreat center in Maine. All donations go to help make this retreat 100% FREE for the veterans and their families. You can make a donation to the Travis Mills Foundation at the link below. https://www.classy.org/give/206843/#!/donation/checkout --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/orangeshoe/message
We were joined by Fall Conference keynote speaker Travis Mills, the founder of the Travis Mills Foundation. The Travis Mills Foundation supports recalibrated veterans and their families through various programs that help these heroic men and women overcome physical and emotional obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation. These veterans are supported through the foundation's nationally recognized retreat located in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine. Veteran families who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses-paid, barrier-free experience in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's outdoors.
FEEL GOOD STORY - TRAVIS MILLS FOUNDATION by 101.9POR
John Rich, singer, songwriter and record producer spoke to Bill Wills about Music industry, family and special concert with benefiting the Travis Mills Foundation on Saturday, November 12th at the Lorain Palace Theatre. Show time is 7 p.m
20220805 - Take A Trip Up To The Travis Mills Foundation Or The New York State Fair by Kevin McCullough Radio
Rick welcomes retired US Army Staff Sergeant and New York Times bestselling author Travis Mills to discuss his "Alive Day," the anniversary of the day he became a quadruple amputee and almost lost his life while serving in Afghanistan, and the Travis Mills Foundation. Mills' bestselling memoir, Tough As They Come, is currently being adapted to film and in production with Sylvestor Stallone and Adam Driver. Afterwards, retired US Army officer Joe Reagan, the Director of Military and Veterans Outreach for Wreaths Across America, joins Rick to talk about National Senate Bill 2571 to honor those who died on Flying Tiger Flight 739 on March 16, 1962 on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jeff Monreal from Jeff Monreal Funeral Home & Dave Mortach - Mortach Financial spoke to Bill about the Jeff Monreal Funeral Home Charity Golf Outing To Benefit The Travis Mills Foundation
Travis and Tim talk about the latest news regarding the Travis Mills Foundation, including a new Health and Wellness Center that allows them to help more families. Travis is also excited to have opened the White Duck Brew Pub in Maine, a restaurant that not only serves mouth-watering food, but also provides jobs for many in the local community.Building on the incredible response and success of the first season; the second season features Marine and Bestselling Author Scott Huesing, inspiring and inimitable philanthropist Adrienne Arsht, Ashley Morrill and Ryan Eldridge from the TV hit “Maine Cabin Masters,” and billionaire Home Depot Founder Bernie Marcus.Support the show
Alex is the founder of Retirement You; one of the largest educational financial workshop brands in the United States and has worked in the retirement planning industry since 2006. He is also an owner of Foundations Investment Advisors and one of the founders of the American Hero Show to help support the Travis Mills Foundation.He talks about why he got involved with the show and a special planning offer for all the “People of Listening” - we call it the “New 60/40 Challenge”.Support the show
Learn about how the Travis Mills Foundation was founded in this bonus episode featuring a conversation with Chief Operating Officer Dr. Kelly Roseberry. The COO also provides an update on all the latest programs at the retreat and what's next for the Travis Mills Foundation!Support the show
"Stop asking why. Accept that it happened, know it did, and push forward in life." - Travis Mills 6ers, this episode is all about acceptance of life in the present – the good, the bad, the ugly – and the will to move forward no matter what. Tony Nash is joined by Travis Mills, an Army veteran, quadruple amputee, author, and entrepreneur. You are going to learn the right mindset to conquer life's biggest challenges and accept its wild surprises. In the end, this episode will empower you to treat setbacks as an impetus for success and will make you realize the future is what you make it to be. “I don't dwell on what happened. Just reminisce what you had and keep pushing forward… I'm very independent in a world where prosthetics are possible.” ----- 00:40 – Introduction 01:25 – On why he is not giving up amid all of life's difficulties: He had two choices – “Get better or don't and I decided to get better.” 02:34 – The lessons he learned from the military – handwork, dedication, motivation, not quitting, leadership. “I use that in my businesses to make sure that everybody that works with me, they know I'll go just as hard as them.” 04:45 – There are two kinds of leaders that had an impact on him: His Staff Sgt back then, Keith Hambright, whom Travis says he respected so much. The other kind of leader was a “terrible” one. 06:15– Travis confronted this bad leader when he got promoted to the same position. “I don't regret it, he taught me what not to do. You can learn just as much from terrible leadership as you can from great leadership.” 10:46 – On managing his business and foundation, he says he still steps up to the plate and constantly balances being a goal-driven yet compassionate leader. 11:41 – A big no no for him at work? Saying “no we can't do it, we can't figure it out.” 12:22 – His kids are everything to him. His biggest driving factor to keep going after the accident was his daughter. 13:11 – “I don't dwell on what happened, just reminisce what you had and keep pushing forward… I'm very independent in a world where prosthetics are possible.” 14:33 – He shared his military plans and college plans before the life-changing event happened. “Life doesn't work out the way you plan it and I think that's the craziest thing. So you always gotta react to contact.” 15:23– On failures: Having sleepless nights where he thought the foundation is gonna fail and failing his watching father after Travis was unable to walk 5 laps post-operation 15:43– “Every day is not like maybe a step in the right direction, but at least it's a step forward.” 16:26 – He shares his biggest fear: That his kids will feel they missed out on anything because of their father's condition. 17:20 – He opens up about feeling lost after getting out of Walter Reed. “Who am I now? I'm not that guy on the picture. I had to rebuild my whole life. I had to rebuild and reestablish who I was as a person.” 18:26 – Stop asking why. Accept things or events as they are without needing to know the reasons behind it. “Accept that it happened, know it did, push forward in life.” 21:45 – How is he better than yesterday? Trying to lose weight, practicing gratitude, teaching his kids life lessons every chance he gets, and living his life every day in honor of the good friends he lost. ----- Here is how to connect with Travis Mills: https://travismillsfoundation.org/ (Travis Mills Foundation) https://www.travismills.org/ (Travis Mills' personal website) https://www.facebook.com/ssgtravismills (Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/ssgtravismills/ (Instagram) https://www.amazon.com/Tough-They-Come-Travis-Mills/dp/1101904801 (Tough As They Come (2016)) ----- Connect with Got Your Six podcast: https://www.thetonynash.com/podcast (Website) https://www.instagram.com/gotyour6pod/ (Instagram) https://discord.gg/KPPzmevp (Discord) https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotyour6pod/ (LinkedIn) https://twitter.com/gotyour6pod (Twitter)...
"Stop asking why. Accept that it happened, know it did, and push forward in life." - Travis Mills 6ers, this episode is all about acceptance of life in the present – the good, the bad, the ugly – and the will to move forward no matter what. Tony Nash is joined by Travis Mills, an Army veteran, quadruple amputee, author, and entrepreneur. You are going to learn the right mindset to conquer life's biggest challenges and accept its wild surprises. In the end, this episode will empower you to treat setbacks as an impetus for success and will make you realize the future is what you make it to be. “I don't dwell on what happened. Just reminisce what you had and keep pushing forward… I'm very independent in a world where prosthetics are possible.” ----- 00:40 – Introduction 01:25 – On why he is not giving up amid all of life's difficulties: He had two choices – “Get better or don't and I decided to get better.” 02:34 – The lessons he learned from the military – handwork, dedication, motivation, not quitting, leadership. “I use that in my businesses to make sure that everybody that works with me, they know I'll go just as hard as them.” 04:45 – There are two kinds of leaders that had an impact on him: His Staff Sgt back then, Keith Hambright, whom Travis says he respected so much. The other kind of leader was a “terrible” one. 06:15– Travis confronted this bad leader when he got promoted to the same position. “I don't regret it, he taught me what not to do. You can learn just as much from terrible leadership as you can from great leadership.” 10:46 – On managing his business and foundation, he says he still steps up to the plate and constantly balances being a goal-driven yet compassionate leader. 11:41 – A big no no for him at work? Saying “no we can't do it, we can't figure it out.” 12:22 – His kids are everything to him. His biggest driving factor to keep going after the accident was his daughter. 13:11 – “I don't dwell on what happened, just reminisce what you had and keep pushing forward… I'm very independent in a world where prosthetics are possible.” 14:33 – He shared his military plans and college plans before the life-changing event happened. “Life doesn't work out the way you plan it and I think that's the craziest thing. So you always gotta react to contact.” 15:23– On failures: Having sleepless nights where he thought the foundation is gonna fail and failing his watching father after Travis was unable to walk 5 laps post-operation 15:43– “Every day is not like maybe a step in the right direction, but at least it's a step forward.” 16:26 – He shares his biggest fear: That his kids will feel they missed out on anything because of their father's condition. 17:20 – He opens up about feeling lost after getting out of Walter Reed. “Who am I now? I'm not that guy on the picture. I had to rebuild my whole life. I had to rebuild and reestablish who I was as a person.” 18:26 – Stop asking why. Accept things or events as they are without needing to know the reasons behind it. “Accept that it happened, know it did, push forward in life.” 21:45 – How is he better than yesterday? Trying to lose weight, practicing gratitude, teaching his kids life lessons every chance he gets, and living his life every day in honor of the good friends he lost. ----- Here is how to connect with Travis Mills: https://travismillsfoundation.org/ (Travis Mills Foundation) https://www.travismills.org/ (Travis Mills' personal website) https://www.facebook.com/ssgtravismills (Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/ssgtravismills/ (Instagram) https://www.amazon.com/Tough-They-Come-Travis-Mills/dp/1101904801 (Tough As They Come (2016)) ----- Connect with Got Your Six podcast: https://www.thetonynash.com/podcast (Website) https://www.instagram.com/gotyour6pod/ (Instagram) https://discord.gg/KPPzmevp (Discord) https://www.linkedin.com/company/gotyour6pod/ (LinkedIn) https://twitter.com/gotyour6pod (Twitter)...
Hear how 82nd Airborne Division is bringing miles smiles this holiday season through their unique way of bringing holiday cheer through a program known as All American Presents from Paratroopers (A2P2). MSG Alexander Burnett, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs NCOIC joins us to share the unit's partnership with the Travis Mills Foundation to deliver toys to children in need this holiday. We wrap this episode with farewell remarks from 3rd Security Assistance Force Brigade Force (3rd SFAB), one of AUSA's adopted units. To learn more about the A2P2 and 3rd SFAB follow them at the social media platforms listed below. Recommendations for future topics are welcome via email at podcast@ausa.org. Guest: MSG Alexander Burnett, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs NCOIC Hosts: Nzinga Curry, AUSA's Director of Education & Programs LTC Clarence Langley, AUSA's U.S. Army Fellow Resources: 82nd Airborne Division Social Media Platforms Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/82ndAirborneDivision Twitter: @82ndABNDiv Instagram: @82ndairbornediv 3rd SFAB Social Media Platforms FB: facebook.com/3sfab facebook.com/1st-BN-3rd-SFAB-139497760334159 facebook.com/ArmySFAC facebook.com/SFABRecruiting IG: Instagram.com/3rdsfab Instagram.com/ArmySFAC Instagram.com/sfab_recruiting Twitter: Twitter.com/3rdSFAB Twitter.com/armysfac Previous Episode 3 SFAB Episode : 10 MAY 2021 Army Real Talk: Adopt -A-Unit SFAB Series Pt. 2 https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-uyvkg-102e889
This podcast is brought to you by the VHA Office of Rural Health. The contents do not represent the views of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Government. The following episode may contain descriptions of violence. Please use discretion.In this episode we hear the life story of a Vietnam Veteran who later re-enlisted in the Airforce and served as a flight medic. We discuss how and why disconnection from others is a symptom of PTSD and the role of animals in healing. Resources discussed in this episode: •VA service dogs and Veterinary Health Benefits: https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/ServiceAndGuideDogs.asp•Travis Mills Foundation for veterans: https://travismillsfoundation.org/Further Reading: •Social connection and PTSD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApWwRmCOnF0•Article on animals and PTSD: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/dogs_ptsd.asp•Careers in aging: https://www.geron.org/programs-services/careers-in-aging-week •National Center for PTSD AboutFace episode: https://www.youtube.com/embed/xr16y6ixn4M?rel=0 Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? Find support anytime day or nightTo connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night:•Call 800-273-8255, then select 1.•Start a confidential chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat.•Text 838255.•If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.
Travis Mills is a disabled veteran, who established a foundation that is improving the lives of US heroes. His story is one of battling back, and giving back. The Travis Mills Foundation supports the families of service disabled members. Hear Travis on The Bob Rose Show, learn how you can help veterans. AND, enter to win a VIP experience to the "Never Give Up On Country" benefit concert featuring combat vet and country star Craig Morgan at The World Equestrian Center November 23rd. Enter at https://www.audacy.com/thesky973/contests/win-the-vip-concert-experience-with-craig-morgan-at-wec
For our very first Throwback Thursday episode we celebrate the bravery of our men and women that have served in the United States Armed Services! In this episode we will discuss not just continuing life after a horrific injury, but excelling and living life to it's fullest, minus two arms and two legs. On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's great outdoors. If you are in a giving mood this year, the Travis Mills Foundation is a great way to give back to injured Veterans! (DONATE HERE) TRANSCRIPT PodcastDX-Quad_Amputee Lita T 00:10 Hello and welcome to another episode of podcast dx. The show that brings you interviews with people just like you whose lives were forever changed by a medical diagnosis. I'm Lita Ron 00:22 I'm Ron, Jean 00:23 and I'm a pina colada. Lita T 00:24 You're not a pina colada she's Jean Marie. Collectively we're the hosts of PodcastDX. On today's show we're speaking with Travis Mills. Travis, if you're not familiar with him by now is the quadruple amputee from an Afghanistan IED and we're going to hear more about his story in a little bit. And he also is running a foundation that provides R&R services more or less for other veterans that have been injured. Is that right Travis? Travis 00:55 Yeah, absolutely it for physically injured and now we're moving towards all injuries. Lita T 01:00 Great, great. Well, welcome to the show. Go ahead, Ron Ron 01:05 Travis. Hi, this is Ron. Again. Thank you for joining us today on our show. First, I would like to start off by saying thank you for your service to our country. Travis 01:15 Well, no, I appreciate it. Thank you so much. And I'm excited to be here. I'm looking forward to hanging out with you guys for a bit. Yeah! Ron 01:21 I read a bit about your injuries and your recovery. I gotta say, I am amazed by your determination and your tenacity. It seems like you've overcome a lot of challenges since April of 2012. Could you tell our listeners a little bit about that day? didn't it just start off as a regular day for you. Travis 01:41 You know, it did we were on our, you know, deployment. I was supposed to be there for nine months as my third deployment. And we had a phone call come in from the village elder that there was some IEDs we had a checkout. So we put our gear on like normal. We went on patrol and try to help them out. And we went, you know, the same routes that we always would take not the same routes, the same general direction. And I had the guy in front of me with the Minesweeper and swept the ground once again, twice like we are protocol. And it just didn't alarm that there's anything under the soil. So I happened to take my backpack off and I put it on the ground. And then the bomb went off. You know it. It shocked my world to be honest with you. Lita T 02:19 Well that's For sure. Jean 02:21 Yeah. I can't even imagine what you were going what was going through your mind at that time? Probably. Yeah, shock. What were the next steps after you were evacuated from the site where you were actually injured. For instance, how soon after the attack, were you transferred back stateside? And was there an intermediate location or two for immediate surgical repair? Travis 02:40 Well, I mean, what they did was, like I hit, my arm right side was completely gone, my right leg was completely gone. They disintegrated and they're found those pieces of me my left leg was snapped to the bone actually. So if you imagine the left ankle bone touching the left thigh, and my left wrist was blown out pretty bad. I hit the ground and rolled over on my back and I saw the aftermath. And in my head, I kept seeing the movie, Saving Private Ryan. And I thought you know about the medic that gets shot stomachs and then he cries out for his mom and ultimately died. I had I said no way like that ever remember me to freaking out or complaining or crying or feeling awful, you know begging not to die basically. Because at the end of the day, it's not my choice and I'm always wanting to exude confidence never showed fear, I led from the front and you know, I just, you never do that as a leader. So I calmed myself down, my medic worked on one side of me my Platoon Sergeant worked on the other side of me, they got four tourniquets on and then I with my left hand that was still left on my body. I reached up and grabbed my microphone and I called my Lieutenant I said, Hey, 6 this is 4 I got guys injured. I need your medic with mine. two of my soldiers got hit. So I you know, I called them and they radio back they sent Doc Voyce over. And Doc Voyce came to work on me, we're working on you know, my other men, and then me. I had to kind of calm him down he was in, stuck on repeat, you know like an old CD we could skip start skipping, he was doing what his training taught him to do so I kept saying "You'll be fine Sgt Mills, you'll be Okay, You'll be fine Sgt Mills, you'll be Okay, he kept working he just kept saying it. I had to look at Doc Voyce and say "Hey Doc Just do your job. It's fine." And they got me on the helicopter about 10 minutes after Doc Voyce got there so really about 12 to 15 minutes being injured I was on a helicopter and I was transported to Kandahar hospital where I didn't know this then and I'm happy that it's, you know, a known fact now but 99% of patients that make it to Kandahar hospital leave Kandahar hospital alive. Jean 04:36 That's amazing Travis 04:36 And yeah, so they started wheeling me right into surgery as 14 hours of surgery took me into and just a wonderful team of nine doctors and seven nurses working for 14 hours straight to put me back to, well not put me back together I guess. that I was laying around with prosthetics but to you know, heal up my wounds and... Lita T 04:56 Saved your life Jean 04:57 Stabilize Lita T 04:58 They saved your life, yeah, Jean 04:59 yeah. Travis 05:00 Yeah, absolutely. Lita T 05:01 I'm guessing that those medics at the at the frontline are really the ones that saved your life. I know this wasn't something we were going to talk about, but do you stay in contact with those guys? Travis 05:10 Oh, I do. Yeah, actually, um, you know, I know very fast forward but my wife and I had another child fortunately. So we have two now. And my son's name is DAX. Oh, he DAX is for medics, Daniel and Alexander as those who made it possible. Somebody will like name my kid in their honor. So that was great. My wife kind of came up with the idea of more than I was going for Travis Fieldyen Mills the second but she said no Lita T 05:29 That's amazing (laughter) Travis 05:39 I name everything after myself, my my business, my foundation, you know, Lita T 05:44 At least everybody knows where they're going. Jean 05:45 It worked for George Foreman, so why not? Travis 05:48 Exactly. Lita T 05:49 According to the Department of Defense, as of January 2018, more than 1500 service members have lost limbs in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, since all of this started in 2001, and an article back in 2018. In July, it pushed the number up to 1900 and 14. So 1914 Have you met any other amputees since you have been injured yourself? Travis 06:21 Had I, you mean previously or since? Lita T 06:23 no since then? Travis 06:25 Oh, yes. At the hospital that we had a bunch of better, everybody at the hospital was an amputee Lita T 06:30 Okay. Okay. So this is a very common wartime injury currently correct. Travis 06:37 Oh, yeah. Yeah, but it's common to the hospital. So like, I had no idea like patient things like that. I mean, you figure you lose a leg, your life's over. Like it's gonna be the worst thing ever. And, you know, I got to the hospital and when I find it, they woke me up from a medical sedation. I was kind of like questioning why that person got hate me. What would I do wrong in life, talking to your husband and father and you know, the biggest thing I wonder is, why not just die? Like, how is this better? And in truth, I didn'twant to talk to my wife, my mom and dad at all that my parents didn't want to deal with the situation. But then I got to, you know, wake up, my brother in law was in the room, he was in the Military as well, a friend of mine, I met his sister, my wife, and my parents, my wife, and I did. And then I didn't really have a conversation with them. It's kind of like, I don't want to talk about this, I want to deal with it. But finally, I got to meet Todd Nicely. He was a quadruple amputee, I'm actually one of five, I'm the fourth one out of five of us, and he walked into my room was like, Hey, man, you're gonna be fine. You're gonna walk again, you're gonna drive again, you're going to feed yourself, you know, you do everything you need to do by yourself. And I know doesn't sound like it, but you're gonna be independent. And I'm sorry. And that was all the, you know, the motivation I needed. Lita T 07:48 So they kind of turn you around you think? Travis 07:51 You know, my wife, and I thought she should leave me. Turn me like okay, let's get better. I won't be a burden on anybody. I mean, I'm very demanding husband. Unfortunately, you know that I expect a lot of help things but I'm very lucky my wife stayed. My daughter was six months old when I got hit. So she was there more with me every day. And I actually learned how to walk with my daughter kind of cool. You know, little thing me and her have Lita T 08:15 That's so cool Travis 08:16 so and she's eight years old. She goes, and she tells people, you know, I taught my dad how to walk. Lita T 08:22 So cool, I love that. Yeah, it's gonna be hard to not tear up right now. Jean 08:27 Yeah, especially after watching the movie with the two of you, Lita T 08:30 right? Jean 08:31 Yeah, she was right there for your physical therapy and everything and your wife was right there too. And it's, that's amazing. Travis 08:36 Oh, absolutely. Lita T 08:38 After that. They got you back, you know, alive and somewhat functioning. Did they give you the chance to remain in the military in any status like you know, just state side desk side or do they just tell you this is it Travis 08:53 you know, they did actually General Odierno and the Sergeant Major of the Army at the time came in Chandler came in talking to the hospital about, Hey, you know, we'd love to have you stay in, you can go around and maybe present on behalf of the military and I teared off and I said, Look, I plan on doing 20 years, gentlemen, but not like this. And my time has come to an end. I can't be Infantry anymore. I can't, you know, be airborne anymore. And as sad as it was to come to that realization, it was just, it was time. I think I made jokes and I really don't want to get restationed anywhere. And General Odierno said, I don't think we restation Sergeant Mills. I don't think so either, sir, but I'm going to call it today. I appreciate this conversation, you know, cuz it was emotional. I planned on 20 years at whole career path lined up, but it just didn't work out for me and that's okay. Cuz like, you know, it's gonna play some curveballs and you got to keep pushing forward and do the best you can and I feel like I've taken that curveball, and that's kind of knocked out of the park with everybody that helps. Lita T 09:53 That's super Ron 09:55 Travis, I've seen some of your videos on YouTube. Absolutely. Amazing. And I could tell you're a pretty humorous guy. How did your humor and your personality I guess, how did it help you with the recovery process? And how long after the amputations where you fitted for the prosthetic that you wear? Travis 10:18 Well, the humor that I have came back right to me. I met in fact, one day, I was sitting there in my hospital bed, the hallway from the nurses, and I could see them holding their like change of shift brief and I started yelling, oh, my legs, my arms and legs where did they go? How did this happen? And I'm just joking to get their attention. And a little 10 year old walked by, and I was like, Oh, I'm just kidding. Sorry. Girls, like I'm so sorry. But, of course, you have the humor. And I think the best compliment and sometimes the worst compliment that I get is that I'm the same person that I was for the injury. So depending on who says it, you know, if you know somebody that's a friend of mine that grew up with says that's awesome, but if it's like a like a Maybe old school teacher from high school. Oh, sorry. Ron 11:02 Yeah. Travis 11:05 But as far as my prosthetic, I was able to get fitted after five weeks time, so a relatively short period. And then seven weeks and four days, I was able to start walking again so just shy of two months. I took my very first steps at Walter Reed. I mean, it was a short, legs a very different feel from walking, but I was starting my comeback, Jean 11:24 right? It's amazingly fast. Lita T 11:27 Amazing. For sure. Travis 11:29 Well, I appreciate that. And then Believe it or not, I have no arms and legs like I do. I just made a video this morning. I was at the gym and I was actually running this morning at the gym. It's first time in two years. I took a hiatus because a no excuse, but back running now. So it's good. Jean 11:45 That's awesone, that's absolutely awesome Travis 11:47 Well yeah, I mean, I travel I travel the nation motivational speaker and I started every time off by saying I tell jokes disarm situation. Knee slapper if you got it, you know, don't have arms or and I also can't slap my knees. But I think it just makes people look past the injury that I sustained and more at the man that I am Ron 11:47 . I say I'm work. I work in the disability community. I'm involved in Disabled Sports. And I tell you, it is a very interesting community with the humor so I understand exactly where you're coming from. You know who can say what? absolutely Travis 12:22 happy, you know, because I want to break down barriers and walls and people are just at Whole Foods to be honest with you and a little boy walked up, he's like, "what happened to your arms?" His mom's like. "don't ask that" like don't ask that to know, I probably have people asking like, then stare and like, kind of shy away from it. So I told him I, you know, had that day at work. And now I'm like Iron Man with, you know, the superheroes. He's all about it. He followed me around for a little bit. So I was like, Hey, man, I really gotta go. Jean 12:49 Oh, wow. So every day, you're just Lita T 12:52 inspiring people, Jean 12:53 inspiring people wherever you go. That's fantastic. And Travis, my mom and I both know that, you know The army is not only a community, it's kind of like a family. But apparently that's really the case for you. As you had said your brother in law is also in that in the military. And that's actually how you met your wife. Travis 13:12 Oh, yeah. Jean 13:13 And what role has that played in your recovery? Travis 13:17 As far as military Brotherhood in my recovery, how's that? Okay, yeah. So at the hospital, I answered the military in general, you have a brotherhood, right? Like I didn't go on my third deployment. I was supposed to go to Fort Hood, Texas, and help build a per day up ticket timeout from the point that so much time but I had all these young guys that came from across the nation that believed in me, I said, Nope, it's not fair to them. They believe me, I'm their leader. My wife understood the calling there at her house with five kids and she knew I had to go. There is something ingrained in you as a servicemember. So I went overseas, and I got injured, right. So you go from the platoon size brotherhood and then you have the hospital without Todd Nicely coming to talk to me. Shortly after I was injured. I've never know the possibilities that lay the head. So I work properly as motivated when you get down to the military advanced training center, where all the injured guys are at and then we tell you something is just amazing. Because that's a tight knit group, and you're all working together and living together. going through the same thing with the with your spouse will do the same thing or children and having them to lean on. Plus, the staff at Walter Reed are just top notch physical therapists, occupational therapists, you know, in the driving of cyclists, the process everybody, it's just one well oiled machine, the doctors sorry and Walter Reed is a Brotherhood and having everybody that was injured. Like me, or you know, not like me with no arms legs, but like maybe missing the leg missing the arm, spinal cord injury, whatever. It was nice having them there because, you know, you feed off them, they still got the mentality of, you know, being in the service. Lita T 14:54 Right. Could you please tell us a little bit about the prosthetics that you're using now. And an add on question, I guess. Do you start out like a person that has an amputation? Do they start out with one type of a prosthetic and move on to different ones as they get acclimated to the use? Are there like prosthetic training wheels of sorts? Travis 15:16 Yeah, absolutely There are so we'll start with the hands the first one that I got called the mile electric I still use things that Dan that I have that but he only went for one hour a day and then it got progressively more and more so without I was on I want so like I've added on 20 hours or whatever, you know, up and up that long working or doing whatever. And they just, you know, it's muscle flex base. So I certain muscles blow it up into flex, but they muscle fat that rotate and download down fast. And it's pretty awesome because I mean, I could eat a sandwich, I can open the door, I could drive my truck, do everything I need to with that one hand that I wear on the left side, the right side. I'm so high up injured. I don't wear prosthetics on it. Unless I'm doing that. activities like downhill mountain biking, or kayaking, and things of that nature. Okay, snowboarding, I do all that stuff, which is pretty awesome, then. Oh yeah. And then as far as the prosthetic legs is definitely a training wheels type session where you start on short legs, so they mold your legs start on really short prosthetics and you got to rebuild everything from 250 pounds when I got injured to 140 pounds. I lost all my muscle mass. I couldn't roll right and left for sit up myself for a while there. So I had to regain all my core muscle and strength. And he started on shorter legs. So when you get stronger on those, it's basically like if you imagine where your kneecap is, there's a foot at the end of it for me it would have been difficult to deal with Sure, yeah. It and then you grow taller and taller to the point where you have straight legs that are like still so you're standing up as high as they're going to make you okay, I was six, three, almost six foot right now. I was you know, so they Currently, Sanchez Blitz offer safety and gravity and whatnot. And then they give you the legs I'm wearing now it's called x threes. And they're the top of the line. They're waterproof. They're Bluetooth, that have like a locking remote, much better angle. They have little computers in each leg. So they're microprocessors fitter. So every time I move over here and adjustments get made to keep me as upright as possible. And then the last thing is they have hydraulic brakes built in so when I go down the ramp, I can slow myself down. I find a lot of airplanes actually good motivational speaker. So when I go down on the jetway, I don't go bowling for people. Ron 17:36 So yeah, that in the video too. Right, right. Yeah, Jean 17:39 that's, that's incredible. Ron 17:42 was funny. One of the other things in the video talked about your prosthetic hand and your daughter's future boyfriend. I thought that was pretty humorous. Lita T 17:53 Yeah, tell us about that firsthand. Travis 17:55 Yeah, I got it. Yeah, keeping a Crown Royal bag in my closet. It was 45 pressure, and then 35 pounds of pressure. And the reason I keep in the closet is because when she's 16 her mom lets her go on a date, I'm gonna bring the handout. I'll probably you know, crush his hand, when he's crying I'm going to tell him "no fingerprints". But don't mess with me, bro. Let him go Lita T 18:15 (laughter) Travis 18:15 To subdue any, you know, Lita T 18:17 Questions that he might have had Travis 18:18 Ideas he was thinking about trying? My wife says I'm not gonna be able to do that. But, you know, we'll see. Lita T 18:19 Right right That's right, that's right Travis 18:27 And high school buddies like real good friends of mine are so excited because their kids get old enough they can't wait to buy me into the same thing. I'm like, I'm coming let's throw a party. That boys to style like Bad Boys 2 with Martin Lawrence, and Will Smith the show that day. Lita T 18:41 Sure, sure. Ron 18:42 Yeah, that's too funny. You just mentioned your friends. It's actually leads me into my next question. Your friends and family, including your wife. how supportive as they put you through this little this journey. Travis 18:58 Oh, I mean, stop that. I I definitely gain and lose friends through this and you know having my wife at my side every day was a reason I kept fighting to get better because she's not leaving me, then I gotta do my best to not be a burden. And you know a lot of places that she goes for other nonprofits maybe they bring up like, you know, the problems that have their husbands or issues they have their husbands. You know, some of the other spouses might say like, we can't do this because of that I felt like was Travis Travis Travis takes boys to gymnastics he runs around does grocery shopping when he when he can and things so I try to be everyday average normal husband, fathers, I can't be but then having you know, my friends, bear with me. And now with the foundation. I've been able to bring up a lot of really cool families that I want to help out. So we help all physically injured, sterilization spinal cord, service families and it's all free to them and it's all about Hey, get out out there be active in community and in your society, because some people aren't as open as me. And I think having support group that I had and having that I, I had to learn things like, like walking and stuff as I'm fortunately so successful in my everyday life. Lita T 20:17 Sure, sure. Ron 20:18 Oh, that's fantastic. That's fantastic. Lita T 20:20 Definitely. Travis, what do you wish people knew about amputees? I know that you say that, you know, go ahead and ask That's for you personally. But what do you wish people would know about amputees? Like the emotional changes that a person goes to you? So like, in other words, if somebody wanted to ask a question, but they were afraid to ask, you know, pretend like you're asked, answering those questions. What What did you have to go through emotionally? Jean 20:47 And I would say like, what, what do you wish they knew? Lita T 20:50 Right? Jean 20:50 Yeah. Travis 20:51 Well, I mean, honestly, for me, a lot of my buddies that I know rather than have the conversation than the looks, the stairs, and like the The awkward, you know, oh crap, they're looking at me I'm going to look back, or up at the ceiling or whatever and look back when they're not looking. So, really people they want to be delicate, which I appreciate I understand but, you know, everybody that I know is everyday, regular person, they just had some mishap at work but didn't change them, you know, into being this person that needs to be, you know, you know, babied around or, or ostracized I guess. So, you know, for me, why don't people know is like, have the conversation say Hey, how's it going? People ask me. It's a funny thing. Like, hey, Travis, you know, when I see someone like you, What do I say? I'm like, I usually say hi or hello Lita T 21:42 Exactly, exactly right, right Travis 21:45 And, you know, also, I'm trying to change the narrative. I say I'm recalibrate because my voice those out you want those wounded guys, it doesn't feel very good, don't have any more injuries. I have scars. So I'm trying to change the whole life. Word wounded, is that the negative to recalibrated it right? Lita T 22:03 Okay, Travis 22:03 based off a little bit. We're good to go. It's good. And then then also, I think that the term veteran in general has become kind of like, oh, you're one of the veterans Do you got that, you know, pts or what's wrong and I'm like, nothing I serve my country had a great time doing it, love my job, had a bad day at work. I gotta move on. So, you know, my foundation, we're actually expanding our program to help people get back on their feet. That may be something for PTS, things like that. Because I really truly feel that you know, you need to get help to get out of your own way to be successful, I'm fortunate. We're going to talk about that I run I own part owner and two, and I run one with my wife. So three businesses plus nonprofit that's very successful. Lita T 22:47 That's great. Jean 22:48 Well, we weren't must be very busy. Lita T 22:50 Yeah, I would say so. Yeah, well, yes, for sure. I'm getting back to the physical thing that you've been through. How many surgical procedures have have you had? Travis 23:02 I think 13 they said they 23:06 Yeah, 13 surgical procedures, maybe more, but I didn't have any. I didn't have any surgeries. Kind of weeks easily get with me What's up, let's go internal. Then I had my eardrum repaired, which was the worst surgery that I can remember. But and then besides for that, nothing too crazy. I was very fortunate and lucky there no infections or anything like that. Lita T 23:28 Do you think they'd be in the best physical condition that you were in prior to the injuries was what helped your recovery? Travis 23:36 I think so. I think it did. For sure. I was a weightlifter. I picked anything up that was heavy and put it down. You know, one of those meat is kind of nice. But I also I think it was on the battlefield. The reason I didn't lose my blood out and everything. I remained calm. I didn't get my heart rate up. I didn't freak out. I kept telling myself whatever happens happens. Not my call at the end of the day. So don't freak out. And I think that might have saved my life as well because instead of yelling, I don't want to die and freaking out and panicking, I just like to stay calm and ride this one out. So very fortunate that I'm kind of stuffing it in the best way possible, which are my thing. And the most worst way. Yes. All my family members, maybe. Jean 24:22 Well, yeah, that's, that is truly amazing. And it says a lot about who you are as a person who you were before, and who you who you have always been, and your injuries were in 2012. Do you still have like phantom limb pain? And is there anything that they can do to help treat that part of the injury? Travis 24:39 You know, it's great question and I can't reiterate the documentary and I wish I could, because I say that the academy coma I don't think I would do it again, which is I only did that. You know, the documentary was five months after my injury. In truth, the phantom limb pain I would 110% not be the person I am Today if I didn't have the ketamine colon Academy coma, they're doing a case study. And what they did was reset my brain to think that my nerves and where they were blown off and finally beat. And I, I have been absolutely pain medication free since October of 2012. I quit it cold turkey, and no pain medication. No medication whatsoever, actually, which is very unfortunate, but because of my case study they did. It's more of a common use process. And I have no phantom limb pain, no pain to speak up. And I'm very, very lucky. I know that so it's, you know, that's one thing that at the time when I said it in the documentary, I didn't know the results of it and now looking back like it was probably the best thing for me because my life is obstructed by anything, I don't live, you know, any medication and just keep pushing forward with with a pretty worryfree life. Lita T 25:58 It's amazing. Jean 25:59 Yeah, that's awesome. Ron 26:01 Try to watch the video that showed you and your modified truck. Oh, you know you still drive? What about any of your other recreational pursuits? Do you need adaptations? Or how do you how do you do done? Travis 26:15 Well, you know, luckily with the remote to my truck, and I click My legs are better your angles I can drive my truck No, no no problem and therefore a lot of us like to get into get adapted. I just kind of drove it every day and made it work with a steering wheel handle so I can drive most anything but I have a van that has ankles in it, which is awesome. And that that really helps out a lot too. So it's just a lot of fun that I get to do that and be able to drive again and stuff so I i guess i have a ranger in a golf cart. But there's no adaptions on those. I just kind of drive those. Jean 26:48 If you're going to be running that day. Is there do you switch out your prosthetics to make running Travis 26:54 You know what? Yeah, yeah, so I did I forgot to cover that. I went back and training was walking to look at my profit. But in truth, I have bicycle legs I've never used I'm going to set them up one day very excited about this. I'm running late. I have both. I have worked out a little short workout legs. And then I have different hands and attachment. I mean, it's I have a bowling arm. I think I'm going to use this weekend. My daughter's birthday party thing she's doing with all their friends and their, you know, whatever. And I have a pool table arms. I can't wait to get a pool table. I'm telling you what, Ron 27:26 (laughter) Travis 27:27 kind of exciting but yeah, there's definitely different adaption, Lita T 27:30 okay, Travis 27:31 there are adaptations that they have. And it's kind of like it's weird, but like, just like on Amazon, you go and set the book. You're like, oh, that activity looks fun. And see if I get one of those. I have I have a like a 10 inch butcher knife. So I can carve a turkey to be honest. I haven't covered a lot of turkeys. But it's very sharp. And you got to be very careful on the walking thing because it's like running with scissors. Lita T 27:52 Oh, yeah. Travis 27:54 But yeah, we have all that stuff. And I'm so grateful that there's some geniuses and bright minds out there. That put this together to make it possible for Lita T 28:01 for sure. Ron 28:02 Well, Travis, if you don't already, if you don't do scuba diving or you haven't done archery and you are interested, let's talk later because I'm involved in both of those activities for people with disabilities. Travis 28:17 I appreciate that. Yeah, Ron 28:19 for what I've seen you do a lot, but I wanted to throw that out. There is another. I don't know something else you could add to the resume. Lita T 28:26 Right, right. Travis 28:27 Yeah, so I've done archery, and I'm okay with that. You know, it's not something again, knock knock on the arrow part gets me kinda. So like, my biggest stubbornness I have. If I can't do it by myself, then it's like, I don't really want to do it. So I'm getting some, some rifle setup so I can go, I like to skeet shoot you right. It's target shoot. But also, my next goal is already been skydiving a few times I show my airplanes but since I've been injured I've been skydiving twice, my next goal and here's where being you can can collaborate. I'm gonna go you know, cage diving with a great white sharks. I just I'm so afraid of sharks. I face my fears and I cannot wait to jump in that cage with those with sharks all around the but I want the big ones off this, you know the Cape of you know, of South Africa I want Ron 29:14 certainly that. That's one of my bucket list items. I just say I don't want that to be the last item on my bucket list if you know what I mean Lita T 29:20 (laughter) okay. Jean 29:22 Yeah, you two have fun Travis 29:23 You've got to live a little bit Lita T 29:25 I'll be up on the boat with the spear gun and I'll be keeping an eye out for you. Jean 29:30 Wow. Travis 29:31 Yeah, drinking the rum punch. I love it Lita T 29:35 Somebody getting on shotgun. Jean 29:36 Yep. Travis 29:37 Oh, I get it. Jean 29:39 That's you guys are hilarious. But yeah, you guys don't have to work that out with Dive. Heart. Travis, what is the future of prosthetics look like and what do you hope to see with future prosthetic devices? Travis 29:53 You know, the prosthetics are quite amazing. They have prosthetics that your hands that each finger moves instead of just Like the two fingers, like, you know, like he can add a little motor I'm looking for those get more durable, which is exciting, but also then hooking to like, your nerves and all that so that they can, you know, sense what your muscles would would actually be flexing to open your hand and close it. But I think also what I'm excited about a step further than prosthetics is they're doing stuff called osteo integration where they they're hollowing out your humor bone and hooking a rod to it and a rod inside your skin like your feet do. And then you connect your feet on it, and you can take them off. And then kind of lastly is the stem cell stuff, which is so intriguing to me because they're regrowing people's like one guy like regrew his thumb, so that they're saying they're probably able to regrow people's arms and legs in the near future. Like we're talking 5/10 years. Lita T 30:47 Wow. Travis 30:48 We're just I mean mind blowing, right? Lita T 30:50 oh yeah wow, Travis 30:51 yeah, I'm gonna be the first one to do it. But I'm saying it's just it's just amazing that the progression right when the first guy made a prosthetic Civil War thing or got started, because he lost his leg to a cannon, or infection or a gunshot, something to do with civil war. But now, I mean, bionic stuff is just impressive. So sky's the limit. If I was a Vietnam era veteran on the battlefield medicine or technology that we had have today, very rarely where a guy like me ever make it, very low percentage. And now, because of the wars and because of technology and the time that we live in, I live a pretty normal life. Like, I mean, you know, I, I went down and did a federal meeting today at a building that was like a day to day and I had I went to the gym and ran to the outdoors, the laces running at the gym. Pretty cool, right? Lita T 31:41 Absolutely. Jean 31:42 And very inspiring Travis 31:44 And I think i think i think the big thing is, you know, to stay to stay humble, because I don't want to ask for too much. It's just so fortunate and lucky to have what's out there on the market right now. Jean 31:55 Sure, sure. But I guess you know, as far as the future of prosthetics, the designer Definitely want to hear from the individuals who will be using them to see what is it that you guys need? Travis 32:05 Oh, absolutely there for dreams for sure. Ron 32:09 Travis older veterans day name require amputations due to medical complications, like diabetes, or something like that. Have you interacted with any of these older vets to talk with them and give them an idea of what to expect after amputation? Travis 32:27 Well, I mean, I get it. I get some conversations, right? A lot of like, one on one counseling like that. But if I go to the VA to do a checkup or something, when I see somebody and ask the questions I answer or someone at the grocery store that, you know, I, you know, have the conversation. So a big thing is people emailing my website, and they'll ask me like, Hey, you know, I got this going on. I was thinking, maybe I should just cut my leg off. What do you think I'm like, I'm not the guy. Like, that's not my Yeah, my expertise, but I'll tell you, that, you know, there's different prothestics out there make your life better if that ends up being the diagnosis or what happened. So, I'll try to get as much information but I want to make it sound like oh, it's Rick, hack that thing off. Let's call it a day. Right? But um, as far as people that are suffering you know, I know people use my use my website TravisMills.org for a lot of inspiration. And they go on my Facebook, which is all like tagged SSG Travis, because when they go to my Facebook page or my Instagram they'll see fun videos of me and my wife children or or meet my buddy or things like that and then they can you know, they can find out Hey, life goes on. That's what this whole podcast about some happen. Keep pushing forward. And that's kind of the message that we always we always project I'm always speak about resiliency and about, you know, overcoming life's obstacles. And it's just, it's a lot of fun for me, so I'll have the conversation, but it's not something I do what I want to accomplish. Lita T 33:54 Well, speaking of resiliency, you were obviously able to draw on an incredible Internal Strength just to survive that incident. Could you tell us more about your mantra of never give up? never quit? How did you come up with that? And can that work for everyone? Travis 34:11 Absolutely. It can work for everybody in the way that I kind of started in the hole. Never go never quit was I was working out. I looked all skinny and sickly and their staff say Do you wanna take a break? And I said, I'm never gonna give up I'm never gonna quit. And you know when I say my wife on my side, my daughter being there helped me walk again. In my driving force. My parents my in laws. My father in law, I didn't really know him that well really, right. Like, we talked about the weather, a lot sports but lived near him or was nowhere near him. When I grew up. He moved in the hospital with me, we became really close friends now. I mean, we're best friends. We travel all over the nation together. But it's just it's ingrained in my head that you just keep pushing forward. You can't just let your situation that you're living in now the outcome of your life and let me just Like the military, I always strive for more promotions and higher rank and do better and things like that and the best time of my life. So, you know, I don't want to sit stagnant. You got to keep moving. And that's kind of how I got the slogan. And now I live by it because I know that there's no not one but two children that look up to me every day. And I need to make sure they know like, hey, look, if you fall down, you got to get back up and keep going forward. Jean 35:24 It's once again, amazing, Lita T 35:27 Hooah! Ron 35:30 Could you tell us a little bit more about the movie a soldier's story? Travis 35:34 Yeah. So this documentary was created because people in Texas saw my story on I think Fox News, one of the new stations, and they thought was pretty cool. And they realized quite early in our conversations to have go room to room and meet people like me and the people that came into the hospital, and they wanted to film and we decided, you know what, let's just go ahead and do a short documentary half hour long and then it turned into an hour long documentary and became a film that that was actually that was done and about seven days, maybe nine days of filming. Yeah, there's a lot of iPhone footage of that cotton edit from Kelsey phone, which was great. But they did reenact with some of the interviews and all that just like in nine days, so. Lita T 36:16 Oh, yeah, I was, that was a heart wrenching. A heart wrenching movie. We watched it just before we started the interview. We wanted to make sure that we were in the right frame of mind, and I don't know if that helped. Oh, Jean 36:29 yeah, it was all it was us in a box of tissue. Yeah, but there were a lot of smiles. Lita T 36:34 Yeah, yeah, I knew how it ended so that was the only reason I said it's got a good ending. Jean 36:38 Yeah, Lita T 36:39 it's gonna be a good movie. Jean 36:40 It's gonna work out it's gonna be okay. Lita T 36:42 Yeah, Travis 36:43 I know it kind of sad for the first half hour. Lita T 36:45 Yeah, it was a it was a it was a rough beginning. Travis 36:49 And then now I actually unfortunate where we have, or I guess I have a book "AS Tough As They Come" It's a New York Times bestseller. I have a book out, and it might be made into an actual motion. picture, which is exciting, but can't count your chickens before they hatch. So we're playing it day by day and see how it goes. Lita T 37:07 Sure, sure. Can you tell our listeners about your family now? So you've got two children and how have you adapted to life together as and does this amputee getting away? I mean, are you just a husband and a dad? Travis 37:26 I mean there's two answers to that I guess it didn't patient or my disability or you want to call it it does give away something like my daughter's in soccer. I'd love to be in the backyard keep the ball around and running. But I did that for the first year when she was like five cheaper soccer but now I can't keep up so I kind of watch her you know, from the side but doesn't really get in my way. I get on the trampoline with my kid but I still do a backflip we get into the floor the lake and swim around so don't really hold me up and I still do daddy daughter dances and things like that Lita T 37:59 oh that's sweet Travis 38:00 My wife, you know, she's unsung hero of everything. She doesn't like the limelight as much. But, you know, she's one keeps us all together the glue that holds it and she's been phenomenal. You know, she's taking my side and helped me out like today before we left, I still need help put my legs on. So she had to put my legs on, she doesn't complain about that she just, It's just normal now. So like, when I wake up, you know, my legs go on in my pants or whatever. But it doesn't hold me back from being a father or a parent. You know, I'm the one that takes your gymnastics, and my son and I wrestle around. This is a lot of fun. So I guess we have the same family dynamic that we were always going to have. You know, I'm, you know, active with the kids and my wife and I still do things as a family. It's just different because I'm not able to do as much sports stuff as I'd like to because I used to be very athletic. Lita T 38:55 But at least you've been there. You know the tips. You know, you know what to tell you kids how to do it. You can train them, you can coach them, you can guide them, because you've already done it. And Travis 39:08 absolutely, give me excuses. I'm not sure that excuses will work with me, like, really, really fully Ron 39:19 add here and kind of in the same boat with you a little bit too old, so I can't keep up with my kid. But I've done it before I can talk with them. I can explain to them, but I certainly can't keep up with them. They're young. You know? Travis 39:33 You're doing better than me, Ron I mean, I fell apart at 25 you know, I got two feet in the grave now. 32 years old. There you go. Jean 39:40 I don't know if that's quite true Ron 39:42 I finally heard that, finally caught it. Again, I know the humor in the community can be pretty pretty intense, huh? Jean 39:50 Yeah, you guys. Yeah. quite quite the comedian there. Lita T 39:53 I gotta close my mouth now, Jean 39:55 yeah. Okay. Ron 39:56 Yeah, hopefully we'll talk afterwards. There. You Jean 40:01 Do you have any tips hints and helpful advice for our listeners, or someone who's recently had an amputation or waiting to have one or their family members? Travis 40:10 For you, I don't just sit here with amputations. I'll tell you what I tell all the audiences I speak to. I travel with you know, all over the nation. The two things I leave won't get off stage since the two left crap where because, you know, I went from this athletic six foot three lift weights every day, big, stocky, strong guy to, you know, have no arms and legs, and everything. So the first thing I tell people is don't dwell in the past. I sit in hospital bed and close my eyes and hope we pray that this never happened. And think how I go back in time, how do I change this? And you know, it took what two three weeks then when I finally realized that it does me no good living in the past is never going to change anything. So instead of dwelling on it, I remember this 25 years I have arms and like they're phenomenal and I've had seven amazing times and then I also take it step further and tell people that you can't control your situation. But you can always control your attitude. So for me, my situation is I wake up every morning with no arms, no legs, right then that's how I am. But my attitude, I'm fortunate, my daughter, Chloe to run down with no, if I'm not already awake, I jumped my wheelchair, I throw my arm on, right, we go downstairs, and we have our breakfast. And then I'm able to go ahead and go about my day. So instead of letting my situation dictate how I feel, I just realized that hey, I'm so lucky to be here and so fortunate because I have a lot of guys that make it back home to their families, that I might as well have a great attitude about every day I get to be here because you know, they're no longer with us and their sacrifices so much bear in mind. And I think if you get by those two life life lessons that I've been, you know, that I've learned and I live by pretty, pretty positive, upbeat, average, you know, great day. Hi, everybody. Sorry about the great day Jean 41:59 Yeah. Lita T 42:00 good attitude Jean 42:01 is wonderful. Ron 42:03 Yeah, attitude is definitely a big factor. Travis, you do have quite the following of people. You want to give a plug for your book or your podcast? Jean 42:13 I can't believe you also have a podcast Wow. Travis 42:16 You know, I do but we're just getting it off the ground. We did a little a couple, you know, test episodes and pilots, but now we're going to go ahead and and change out the format to be great. And, you know, I'm really excited about that. So, yeah, if anybody gets bored and want to check it out, check out Travis mills.org. For otter Travis Mills needs and we'll just kind of go from there. Okay, there you go. That's, that's great. That's, that's that's wonderful. And we hope our listeners do check that out. We cannot thank you enough for joining our show today. It's been a pleasure having you on Yes, definitely. Yeah, absolutely appreciate you guys having me. I hope you guys have won frustrated day and excited to be a part of this. You know, this episode. Your phenomenal podcast here. Lita T 43:01 Thank you Travis for joining our show. And I hope others can find strength by listening to your story because that's the goal of our podcast. Jean 43:10 Yeah. And it's extremely inspiring, Lita T 43:12 very Travis 43:14 Thanks so much, much appreciated. Lita T 43:15 You're welcome. If our listeners have any questions or comments related to today's show, they can contact us at podcast dx@yahoo.com do our website podcast dx calm and Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram. Jean 43:28 And if you have a moment to spare, please give us a review wherever you get your podcast. As always, keep in mind that this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with a any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment in before undertaking a new health care regime and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast Lita T 43:49 till next week.
United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills was on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan when he was critically injured by a roadside IED. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. As he worked towards recovery, Travis and his wife Kelsey started the Travis Mills Foundation to send care packages overseas. Travis talks with Andrea Tetzlaff about his recovery, what the foundation turned into, and how he lives by his motto, “‘Never give up, never quit.”
Country music star John Rich is coming to Ohio to perform a charity concert for veterans with missing limbs. Rich, of Big & Rich and Lonestar, talks with our Stephanie Haney on this week's 3 Things to Know podcast about why he's so honored to headline the November 10 event organized by the Travis Mills Foundation. The Travis Mills Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides mental health services, physical support and opportunities for entertainment for "recalibrated veterans," meaning military members who lost limbs in combat. The foundation was founded by Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, a "recalibrated veteran" himself, who is one of only five veterans to have lost all four limbs in Iraq and survive. Rich will be joined at the show at the Lorain Palace Theater by the family of US Navy Corpsman Maxton Soviak, who was killed in action in the recent attack on the Kabul Airport in Afghanistan, and former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar. Rich also shares how you can meet him and Kosar at the show, and talks his many other projects, from his TV show on Fox Business Network to his American whiskey, Redneck Riviera. Plus, Stephanie shares what you Need to Know in NEO to catch John Legend in concert this week, and why Staff Sergeant Mills A Good Follow on Instagram. Get tickets to the charity concert here, with donations up to $500,000 being matched by Dave and Sophie Mortach: http://travismillsfoundation.org/events/2021/11/10/john-rich-concert Need to Know in NEO: How to see John Legend in concert this week http://youtube.com/watch?v=h8KOrJvUQn4 A Good Follow: SSgt Travis Mills on Instagram http://instagram.com/ssgttravismills Connect with Stephanie Haney here: http://twitter.com/_StephanieHaney http://instagram.com/_StephanieHaney http://facebook.com/thestephaniehaney
In the first half of D-Mans 5 hour extravaganza, he opens the show with Special Guest Mike Trivisonno, to talk about his recent fundraiser for coats for kids and the Travis Mills Foundation. D-Man welcomes Dan Labbe, Cleveland dot com, to talk all things Browns training camp.
About This Episode: Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis's New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life's challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's great outdoors. Find out more about Travis at: Travis' Website - https://www.travismills.org/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ssgtravismills Instagram - http://instagram.com/ssgtravismills LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/ssgtravismills/ Check out our YouTube Channel: Jeremyryanslatebiz Make Extraordinary a reality: jeremyryanslate.com/extraordinary See the Show Notes: www.jeremyryanslate.com/897 Sponsors: Gusto: This episode is sponsored by Gusto. Run your payroll the easy way, the same way we do at Command Your Brand. You'll get a. $100 Amazon Gift Card just for running your first payroll! http://www.jeremyryanslate.com/gusto MyPillow: Use the promo code: CYOL to get up to 60% off https://www.mypillow.com/ Audible: Get a free 30 day free trial and 1 free audiobook from thousands of available books. Right now I'm reading "Unmasked: Inside Antifa's Radical Plan to Destroy Democracy" by Andy Ngo, about building real wealth. www.jeremyryanslate.com/book
About This Episode: Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis's New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life's challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's great outdoors. Find out more about Travis at: Travis' Website - https://www.travismills.org/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ssgtravismills Instagram - http://instagram.com/ssgtravismills LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/ssgtravismills/ Check out our YouTube Channel: Jeremyryanslatebiz Make Extraordinary a reality: jeremyryanslate.com/extraordinary See the Show Notes: www.jeremyryanslate.com/897 Sponsors: Gusto: This episode is sponsored by Gusto. Run your payroll the easy way, the same way we do at Command Your Brand. You'll get a. $100 Amazon Gift Card just for running your first payroll! http://www.jeremyryanslate.com/gusto MyPillow: Use the promo code: CYOL to get up to 60% off https://www.mypillow.com/ Audible: Get a free 30 day free trial and 1 free audiobook from thousands of available books. Right now I'm reading "Unmasked: Inside Antifa's Radical Plan to Destroy Democracy" by Andy Ngo, about building real wealth. www.jeremyryanslate.com/book
After joining the program on Memorial Day, Staff Sgt. Travis Mills of the Travis Mills Foundation came back on the program with Kevin McCullough to give us an update on how he's been since then and everything the Travis Mills Foundation is doing to uplift the spirits of all the service members that lost limbs serving and protecting our great country.
Today on the show Jayson is talking with Travis Mills is a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis, along with his wife Kelsey, founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit veterans who have been injured in the line of duty.After losing portions of both his arms and legs from an IED in Afghanistan Travis has made the most of life, starting multiple businesses and a foundation to help people in a similar situation as his, he has thrived after most would give up, or back down. Links: Follow True Underdog on IG: www.instagram.com/true_underdogReach out to Jayson directly at jayson@trueunderdog.comFollow Jayson on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayson-waller-/Follow Jayson on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jaysonwallerbamCheck out our website to meet the team, view show notes and transcripts: www.trueunderdog.com Mentioned in the Episode: Glenn's Company: https://kindlending.com/Glenn's Website: https://www.glennstearns.com/Glenn's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennstearns/Glenn's Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlennStearnsGlenn's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-3gGP3f-8D93UimKiaBoQGlenn's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GlennBStearnsGlenn's Podcast: https://www.glennstearns.com/grithappens Timestamps: 1:40 - Travis' Foundation4:10 - Never Give Up, Never Quit8:07 - The Day Travis Lost His Limbs14:35 - Be Active in Your Community18:45 - Wanting More For the People Around You21:04 - Being a Lone Wolf23:56 - Travis' Businesses28:26 - Growing a Business Over Time32:29 - How to Find Travis Online
Travis Mills is the second of three children, an older sister and younger brother. He was raised in a small town located in Michigan. He had an all American upbringing, playing football, baseball, and basketball. Travis was a star athlete in high school. He was totally unprepared for his role in college football. Travis' coach placed him on the sidelines, a role he must have excelled in because that is where he stayed most of the time. Travis decided college was not the right fit for him. The military was the next option. A choice had to be made between the marines and the army. The $24,000 enlistment bonus from the army sealed the deal. Travis arrived in Afghanistan as a 19 year old kid, standing at 6'3" and eventually weighing 275 pounds. He served in the 82nd Airborne. While on this first deployment, Travis was introduced to Kelsey through My Space. Kelsey was the 18 year old sister of his medic, Josh. Their first date was Cozumel, Mexico. Travis sets the bar high for first dates. The two were married shortly thereafter, and settled in Fort Bragg. Travis served his second deployment, again in Afghanistan. Unlike his first deployment, Travis was involved in fire fights. The stakes were much higher. After the second deployment, Travis came home and the little family of two became a family of three with the birth of their daughter, Chloe. Travis' third deployment to Afghanistan changed his life forever. Travis moved up quickly through the ranks. He was an E6 senior staff, in charge of heavy weapons. On April 10, 2012 Travis was on patrol. The ground was mine sweeped, not once, but twice. It was considered safe. Travis laid down his 120 pound backpack, and an IED exploded. Travis immediately lost his right arm and leg. They were never found. His left leg and left arm were badly mangled. Travis had seen men with less severe injuries die. Travis declined help as he was sure he was a helpless case. Against his wishes, four tourniquets were immediately wrapped around Travis' limbs. He remembers his only pain when a sternum IV was administered. Travis' initial surgery was 14 hours with 9 doctors and 7 nurses. Four hundred units of blood were donated. With an uncertain future, Travis' brother-in-law, Josh, was called to escort him back to the states. Travis woke up on April 14 as a quad amputee, both legs and arms were gone. Travis spent 19 months recovering at Walter Reed. Both he and his toddler daughter learned to walk together. Travis found therapy in making rounds to "recalibrated warriors." He became known as the "Mayor of Building 62." Travis and Kelsey welcomed a second child, their son Dax. The Travis Mills Foundation was originally founded as Travis and Kelsey began sending care packages to troops. The organization has morphed into something much larger. The Travis Mills Foundation purchased a facility in Maine, once owned by Elizabeth Arden. The facility caters to veterans and their families, giving them a barrier free experience. The foundation hosts 8 families a week. The goal is 42 weeks with 8 families every week. Travis Mills is the owner of 4 businesses, one non profit, author, and motivational speaker. His motto is "Never Give Up, Never Quit." He is one of only five surviving quad amputees from the war on terror. Travis Mills Organization Travis Mills Facebook Travis Mills Instagram
Learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation through my conversation with Program Director, Kelly Roseberry. Kelly shares how she transitioned from working at Walter Reed as a physical therapist to Program Director of the Travis Mills Foundation. Her enthusiasm and passion for helping others is contagious. Kelly explains the mission of TMF, the program offerings, and their plans for expansion. Exciting news and days ahead. Enjoy! Resources: Travis Mills Foundation - www.travismillsfoundation.orgFind them on Facebook and other Social Media Platforms! Book: The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Support the show (http://weblink.donorperfect.com/BehindTheWarrior)
Episode #14 is brought to you by these Bronco Companies! www.wildhorses4x4.com - The Creel family of Wildhorse's 4x4 loves Bronco'n, and they want to help you Bronco - so if you need parts and unmatched customer service, order your parts from Wildhorse's 4x4. www.vintageair.com - AC parts for your 66-79 Bronco made in the USA. With over 40 years in the aftermarket automotive AC business its a no brainer - Choose Vintage Air! www.painlessperformance.com - Is it time to rewire that Bronco? if so Painless can help, their wiring harness is a 28 circuit direct fit 1966-1977 Bronco wiring harness that sets a new standard in chassis wiring. www.UPcarParts.com - United Pacific Industries has sheet metal replacement panels, lighting and more for the Early Bronco owners. Drew sits down with Steve St. Clair from the Utah Bronco Club and talks about the Moab Bronco Safari. www.broncosafari.com www.utahbroncoclub.com Steve also lets us know that he plans on stepping down after this years event, but feels that there are some great people in the waiting to take over and make sure the Club is in great hands. Also Steve announces that Vaughn Gittin Jr and Loren Healy will be at this years event! How cool is that. Drew also has Randy Wickman from B.O.N.E.S talk about this event "May it Forward" where all the proceeds go to the Travis Mills Foundation - helping wounded warriors and their families. Great people doing great things! www.travismills.org www.taskerbroncoguy@yahoo.com
Kelly Roseberry, Physical Therapist and Program Director of The Travis Mills Foundation and Veterans Retreat discusses the origin, mission and future of this amazing organization as part of Mainely Matters' series on Veteran Service Organizations in Maine.
Episode #3 - Lessons LearnedAfter much deliberation, we settled on Lessons Learned for the title of this episode. Here are links to some of what was discussed and the timestamps.Intro w/Mark & Grace @ 0:30Brad Wiseman of Premier Truck Group @ 2:57 https://www.premiertruck.com/salt-lake-city.aspx?utm_source=GMB%20Website%20Button&utm_medium=Organic&utm_campaign=GMB%20TrackingVal Stokes Part 2 @ 31:13 https://stokestrucking.com/African Vision of Hope @ 50:04 https://africanvisionofhope.org/Travis Mills Foundation @ 55:47 https://www.travismills.org/Questions from the Road (QFR) - Top 50 Greenest fleets with Mark & Grace https://www.truckinginfo.com/
Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis is a quadruple amputee, having lost portions of both his arms and legs. In spite of his challenges, Travis has emerged as a leader, advocate, and inspiration. He created a nonprofit to serve other wounded warriors. He became an entrepreneur. He is an in-demand speaker who cracks his audiences up while imparting powerful lessons. Given the current events in our country, we selected Travis’s interview to highlight in our countdown to the New Year. Americans are pushing themselves to overcome massive physical, financial, emotional and spiritual challenges, and Travis drops some nuggets that will help.Here are some of his words on staying positive regardless of what you are facing. He talks about how he finds strength remembering the friends he lost, and the gratitude he holds for the medical teams that went all-in on his care and recovery.*Don't forget to rate, leave a review, and download 10 episodes. The first 25 people to leave a 5 star written review will win a FREE Patriotic T-Shirt. Contest ends on Jan 3rd, 2021.Catch our full interview with Travis Mills in Episode #127Follow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramSubscribe on YouTube
On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. Today, Travis helps other service members see their true potential no matter what injuries they might have sustained during active duty. Listen in to find out more about Travis’s rebirth story. Key Takeaways Why did Travis join the army? Travis shares his story and how he encountered an IED that ended up severely injuring him during his third tour of duty in Afghanistan. Travis was at peace that he was going to die. When Travis found out the extent of his injuries, at 25, he was worried about how he was going to be a husband and a father. Travis told his wife that it was okay for her to leave. Travis questioned, how this could be his destiny to go through life without his arms and legs? What keeps Travis moving forward? “It’s important to feel present with your emotions” A lot has changed in the way people embrace veterans right now. Travis shares the importance of family and why he started the Travis Mills Foundation to help post 9/11 recalibrated veterans. How has Travis pivoted in his charity now that the pandemic has hit? Travis is living the dream. Continue On Your Journey Travismills.org Travismillsfoundation.org Travis on Instagram Travis on Facebook Travis on Twitter JRmartinez.com J.R. on Instagram J.R. on Facebook J.R. on Twitter J.R. Youtube Channel
175: Travis Mills: Former U.S Army Staff Sergeant, President of Travis Mills Group, Travis Mills Foundation, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Veterans Advocate, and Public Speaker discusses his triumphant recovery and successful life after becoming an amputee during combat. Travis Mills Did today’s guest Travis Mills grow up with his glass-is-half-full positive mentality? “Yeah, I’m pretty sure my parents called it stubbornness. It got me in trouble a lot. But I’ve always been the same way that I am today, going forward with life after everything that happened to me. The best compliment that I get and the most organic one that they give me is, ‘Wow Travis. You are the same person. I didn’t think you were going to come out of it the same.” On this episode of Finding Your Summit Podcast, we talk with Travis Mills, Former U.S Army Staff Sergeant, President of Travis Mills Group, Travis Mills Foundation, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Veterans Advocate, and Public Speaker, about his unwavering desire to achieve his goals. “I was always on sports teams. So there was that camaraderie. You had to go that extra mile, and do that extra rep, and go the extra hour, and workouts, and things like that just to achieve the goal. How my motto came around, I was actually doing recovery at the hospital and the occupational therapist asked me if I wanted to take a break, and I said, ‘I am never going to stop. I’m never going to quit.’ She said, ‘That was a silly question, wasn’t it?,’ and I said, ‘Yes it was.” What You Will Learn: What was the drive for Travis Mills to go into the military? “I realised I didn’t like school. It wasn’t for me. My dad was in the Army. My grandpa was in the Navy. A lot of my family members were in the service, and I thought, let me take a look at this. Then I got talking more and more, and I got really excited about the idea of the Army and the Airborne Infantry, and the signing bonus, and all of that. I had bills to pay. I also had to try something different. I didn’t want to live at home. No offense to my parents. I love them very much. But I want to get out and do my own thing.” What is the whole objective when you sign up for the Airborne Infantry? “Airbourne was started in World War II. It was you can basically be anywhere in the world in 18 hours. We are supposed to be anywhere in the world and then you are supposed to be ready to jump into combat so that you can get behind enemy lines or do whatever and jump, and hit the ground running and they called it Light Infantry because you are not in tanks. You are not in vehicles. You jump in with a rucksack and your weapon and you just go into the battle.” Travis Mills explains what happened on the day of his accident in Afghanistan. “I set my backpack down on an IED. It was about a 120-pound backpack and it set off the bomb and when it went off it took my right arm and right leg off automatically.They actually never found those pieces of me. Then the left side of my body, my left arm and my left leg were kind of there, and I don’t know. I got thrown to the ground, rolled over, and saw the aftermath of what happened. My metic and my platoon sergeant started working on me and I told them don’t worry about it. You are not going to save me. They went ahead and worked on me.” What was going through Travis Mills’ mind after sustaining his injury? “Actually I watched a lot of war movies. I still do to this day. I love them. The only thing I saw in my head was the movie Saving Private Ryan, when the medic gets shot in the stomach and he cries out for his mom and he begs not to die, and says, ‘I don’t want to die.’ He starts yelling for his mom, you know? I’m like, my guys will never see that. I always exuded confidence. I led from the front. never showed fear. So, when I got blown up, I was just like, it is what it is. Whatever happens, happens. I realised, nothing I was going to do right in that moment was going to change the outcome of what was going to happen.” What “The only reason I woke up in the middle of the night sweating is because I had the meat sweats from smoking meat. I ate too much. No, I don’t suffer from PTSD. People always wonder if I am lying or how can that be. I have shot people. I have killed people. I have blown people up with grenades. I have watched buddies die. I couldn’t tell you why it hasn’t affected me. It doesn’t bother me. I think the more crude sense of humor is, the first thing you feel when you shoot somebody is the recoil of your rifle, and that is just kind of how it is. I was there to do a job. I did my job, and I can separate the two. I can separate Afghanistan from my home life. I have a wife and two kids, and life goes on.” Life After the Injury What “Nope, I had 19 months recovery at Walter Reade, and then they discharged me and I went to work out with a personal trainer for a little bit. I need to get back in the gym if that helps. This whole COVID thing. But, no, I live a pretty normal life. I own four businesses, either solely or partnerships and then I also run a big nonprofit up here in Maine. So, life goes on. What are you going to do?” Travis Mills Foundation During this episode of Finding Your Summit Podcast, Travis Mills t, “I thought the only reason I want to get better is for my wife and my daughter. So, I might as well figure out how to help people. At Walter Reade, there are so many people doing awesome things. You want to start giving back some way, some shape, some form. We started the Travis Mills Foundation and we were doing care packages, and then we decided to bring families out to Maine that had been to a physical injury, a paralyzation, amputation, spinal cord injury, something along those lines due to service, not necessarily combat, but service-related.” Links to Additional Resources: Mark Pattison: markpattisonnfl.com Emilia’s Everest - The Lhotse Challenge: https://www.markpattisonnfl.com/philanthropy/ Travis Mills: Linkedin Instagram Twitter Travis Mills Foundation: travismills.org Mark Pattison: Instagram
I am truly honored to be joined by Travis Mills, retired Army Staff Sergeant of the 82nd Airborne. Travis is a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, author of Tough As They Come, husband, and father of two. He is one of only 5 quadruple amputees from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to survive. On April 10, 2012, Travis's life changed forever. He set his backpack down on the ground and an IED exploded taking both of his arms and legs. What he did next and his story are truly inspirational. Here's What We Cover in This Episode Leaders exude confidence, lead from the front, and never show fear Mindset around goals and objectives How we inspire and impact others sometimes without evening knowing it Life's peaks and valleys and how to overcome them The inspiration to start a non-profit to impact others How to measure up to the very best in your industry You can change your narrative Travis' Book Recommendations https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1101904801/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=successascent-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1101904801&linkId=e8b9ee8c265ef7f265ffef9ef247b0a3 (Tough As They Come by Travis Mills) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250183863/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=successascent-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1250183863&linkId=a078dfb88afa34942c4856fdc747beb3 (Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win by Jocko Willink) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250195772/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=successascent-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1250195772&linkId=1ad9c9c6e789f59b7c0d0a47d7f2696c (The Dichotomy of Leadership: Balancing the Challenges of Extreme Ownership to Lead and Win by Jocko Willink) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1546034528/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=successascent-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1546034528&linkId=f3bb7cc548e432549949afccd20e19fa (Beautifully Broken: An Unlikely Journey of Faith by Paige Wetzel) Connect with Travis https://www.travismills.org/ (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ssgtravismills (Facebook) https://www.linkedin.com/company/travis-mills-foundation/ (LinkedIn)
Travis is a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant of the 82nd Airborne, a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. He was critically injured by an explosive device on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan, causing him to lose portions of both his legs and arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. He is also a successful business owner and speaks nationwide about overcoming adversity. You can learn more about Travis at https://www.travismills.org/ and more about the Travis Mills Foundation at https://travismillsfoundation.org/ You can follow the foundation on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/travismillsfoundation
How Barrier Free Adaptive Recreation Helps Veterans With The Travis Mills Foundation This Throwback Thursday episode was originally shared in October 2018. Kelly Roseberry PT, DPT is the Program Director for the Travis Mills Foundation. She joined the Foundation after spending several years as a full time Physical Therapist and Center Coordinator of Clinical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She relocated to Maine in the summer of 2017. The Travis Mills Foundation supports post 9/11 recalibrated veterans and their families through long-term programs that help these heroic men and women overcome physical obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation. We support these veterans through our nationally recognized retreat located in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine. Veteran families who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors. In 2017 we hosted 84 veteran families that participated in adaptive sports and activities. Website: https://travismillsfoundation.org/
How Barrier Free Adaptive Recreation Helps Veterans With The Travis Mills Foundation This Throwback Thursday episode was originally shared in October 2018. Kelly Roseberry PT, DPT is the Program Director for the Travis Mills Foundation. She joined the Foundation after spending several years as a full time Physical Therapist and Center Coordinator of Clinical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She relocated to Maine in the summer of 2017. The Travis Mills Foundation supports post 9/11 recalibrated veterans and their families through long-term programs that help these heroic men and women overcome physical obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation. We support these veterans through our nationally recognized retreat located in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine. Veteran families who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors. In 2017 we hosted 84 veteran families that participated in adaptive sports and activities. Website: https://travismillsfoundation.org/
Travis Mills served in the Army 82nd Airborne and was sent on three tours to the Middle East. On his third deployment, a bomb exploded near him and he lost all four limbs. Recovery was difficult across multiple facets of his life but he decided to never give up and never quit. Today, he is a businessman, motivational speaker, author and philanthropist. In this episode: Trying out college but learning that the military was a better path forward Joining the Army 82nd Airborne and going on three deployments Marrying his best friend’s sister and how they navigated long distance dating and marriage Best advice for young married couples before deployment … don’t call each other everyday! This will prevent mundane repetitiveness and dry conversation. Losing all four limbs by a bomb explosion during his third tour in Afghanistan Over 400 units of blood given to Travis on the operating table to save his life which is the most blood that has ever been given to someone in Afghanistan Overcoming the internal question, “Why didn’t I just die? How is this life better than death?” Why his wife decided to stick by his side through thick and thin Switching from questions of reasoning of his new reality to a mindset of “In it to Win it” for his wife and daughter Depending on nurses and family to help dress him, feed him, and assist him in the bathroom for the first five weeks No thoughts of suicide because he knew he could honor his fallen comrades by living his life to the fullest in memory of them Building the Travis Mills Foundation which helps injured veterans learn indoors and outdoors adaptive activities in Maine Living life with the motto, “Never give up. Never quit.” You can’t always control your situation, but you can control your attitude Writing the book Tough as They Come You can learn more at travismills.org or find him on Instagram @ssgtravismills
On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit. In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s great outdoors. The Travis Mills Group LLC was started shortly after, where Travis consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life’s challenges and adversity. Travis’s story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News’ Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
Never Give Up - Never Quit On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. Travis tells us about that day, the moments after the explosion and his incredible and ongoing journey to recovery. He lives by his motto, Never Give Up, Never Quit! Travis is a motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis's New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is available in bookstores everywhere. He continues to overcome life's challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organisation, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service. You can connect with Travis via his Facebook page here Instagram via @ssgtravismills and via TravisMills.org Don't forget you can join our Private Facebook group at : www.facebook.com/groups/bluelightleavers You can also visit the website and blog on www.bluelightleavers.com Download my free guide to optimising LinkedIn for Emergency Service Professionals via: https://www.bluelightleavers.com/pl/95723 If you like what you've heard, please subscribe, hit 5* and leave a review and share and come and join us in our Private Facebook Group. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bluelightleavers/message
Russ chats with Travis Mills of the Travis Mills Foundation in this edition of the BrushPile Fishing Podcast!Check out the Travis Mills Foundation at https://travismillsfoundation.org/Check out our website: https://www.brushpilefishing.comLike us on Facebook: http://bit.ly/BPFFacebook
Today we have the awesome privilege to hear from Travis Mills, a US Army Staff Sergeant, who in 2012 suffered a catastrophic injury that left him as a quadruple amputee. That’s right, he has no arms or legs and is one of only five servicemen from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan ever to survive quadruple amputee injuries. I reached out to him when I started this podcast back in October because I had seen him speak and was incredibly inspired by his positivity, hopefulness, and most importantly, his sense of humor. We finally have him on the show- and it is so timely and poignant- as we are all going through the COVID-19 challenge and so much of the scary and unknown. Travis is someone who faced challenges that were scary and unknown, and his perspective on how he handled these challenges will be so valuable to us as we go through this pandemic. After his injury and retiring from the Army, Travis has become a speaker, a NY Times best-selling author of Tough As They Come, and founder of the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization that benefits and assists wounded and injured veterans. His story inspires, encourages, challenges, and motivates audiences to move forward. He illustrates how resilient the human spirit is, how unbreakable the will is when pressed with difficult demands, and how triumphant a person can be when tasked with the seemingly impossible. His story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News’ Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “And I guess just finding out like, okay, well my military days are done. I’m not, you know, the guy they call on to go on on missions and get the bad guys anymore but I still have a positive life I can live.” “The clear choice for me was just like, I’ve got my wife and my kids, let’s push forward, find a new purpose, new normal, and get moving.” “No matter what situation you find yourself in, whether you’re COVID-19 sitting at home, scared of everything or maybe you’ve had a problem at work today, just understand you’re in charge of your attitude and it’s all about looking at the positives, pushing forward in life, and getting after it every day.” In this episode, you will hear: - Travis recounts how he was injured and how he got his growth mindset and motto “Never Give Up, Never Quit” - His biggest blessings from his injury and the powerful life lessons he has learned - The advice he gives for all of us going through this challenging time Thank you so much for listening! Please subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Clear Choices Podcast is now on Instagram! Follow me @clearchoicespodcast. Come be a part of our Clear Choices community on Facebook . Ask questions and get inspired and motivated to make conscious, clear choices! If you have a guest idea or want to connect with me, please visit my website www.clearchoices.live. I am also available for speaking engagements. Other resources and links mentioned in this episode: https://travismillsfoundation.org/ Find his book Tough as They Come on his website https://www.travismills.org/ “We Bought a Lodge” reality TV show on Fox Nation Find Travis on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @ssgtravismills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW0xLl4m--M https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456
Before being recruitted by the Travis Mills Foundation, Kelly was a doctor at Walter Reed working to help amputee soldiers realize their recalibrated capabilities. From a young age, Dr. Roseberry knew that this work was her calling. Coming from a military family, Kelly felt a natural fit at Walter Reed, doing part of her residency In the that facility. Kelly met her husband, Chris, while living In DC. Having met Travis Mills, Kelly and Chris became fast friends with Travis and his family. A few phone calls and a visit to the Travis Mills Foundation came at the perfect time In Dr. Roseberry's life and professional career. Kelly's role at TMF is activities/program coordinator. However, she remains active In the military community as an advisor to Togus VA In Maine. She is also teaching at University of New England as well as teaching some online courses. Support the show (https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/242424.rss)
Travis Mills may have lost both arms and both legs in Afghanistan, but one thing that IED could not take from him was the spirit with which he lives his life. In the wake of a near-death incident that robbed him of his limbs, Travis Mills has achieved more than many people do in a lifetime, let alone in a handful of years - all while struggling to rebuild his own strength and forge his own path in a body that was completely different to him.With the love and partnership of his wife and an inner drive no bomb can touch, Travis Mills has built a foundation to guide other veterans and charged forward on an entrepreneurial path at the same time. He inspires audiences around the country and makes them laugh in the process, and on this episode of American Snippets he also shares his next big step.Read our featured article with Travis MillsWatch this Interview on YouTubeFollow us on Instagram:@americansnippets@barballenspeaks@davebrownliveiTunes Not Your Thing? Listen to us on Simplecast and follow us on Spotify.Don't forget to visit us on YouTube for more inspirational content.
Retired Army SSG Travis Mills is simply a leader. On the football or baseball field in his home town of Vassar, Michigan, on patrol with his squad in Afghanistan, or on the floors of Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Travis is “that guy” no matter the situation. He’ll pull you up and show you what is possible, while at the same time will tell you the road is not without bumps and turns. He’s that guy who’ll make you laugh, and will also teach you to take yourself a little less seriously. And his “Never give up - Never quit” mantra isn’t just something he came up with after an IED took away his four limbs while on his combat mission overseas, it seems to have followed him around his whole life.That day was April 10, 2012, on deployment for his third tour in Afghanistan when he was critically injured upon placing his back pack on the ground, triggering the blast. The Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient would become one of only five surviving quadruple amputees to date during the post-9/11 conflcts.After reading his New York Times Bestseller Tough As They Come, and watching the award winning documentary Travis – A Soldier’s Story,you won’t give up and you won’t quit whatever you are doing or struggling with. Travis has a magnetism about him, and has recruited a staff for a thriving foundation that has become more like a family than an organization. The Travis Mills Foundation hosts all-inclusive and all-expenses paid veteran family retreats in Maine for servicemembers who have sustained injury on or off the battlefield. This is the place to bond with brothers, sisters and families, do some yoga, take out an adaptive kayak, navigate the ropes course, fish, cook, cross-country ski, cycle and hike. Visit up Maine in person or surf the Foundation’s site and you’ll see it is no surprise it’s been made possible through the leadership of SSG Mills, and the hard work and support from his wife Kelsey and family. Glossary of terms and acronyms:82nd Airborne Division - Airborne infantry division of the United States Army, specializing in parachute assault operations into denied areas with a U.S. Department of Defense requirement to "respond to crisis contingencies anywhere in the world within 18 hours.E6 - U.S. Army Staff Sergeant: just above sergeant and below sergeant first class, and is a non-commissioned officer*. Staff sergeants are generally placed in charge of squads, but can also act as platoon sergeants in the absence of a sergeant first class.*NCO - Non-Commissioned OfficerPSD - A protective team assigned to protect the security of an individual or group. PSD's are typically made up of military personnel, private security contractors, or law enforcement agents.Pop smoke – this is a military term that, which means to leave or retract from an area quickly.240 - The nickname for a medium machine gun- either an M240B or M240L depending on the configuration.To learn more and connect with us:www.homebase.org/homebasenationTwitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedInHome Base Nation Production Team:Cassandra Falone, Charlotte Luckey, Steve Monaco, Armand Hunter, Bill DavidsonHome Base Media Lab Chairman:Peter Smyth Thank you Joe Wallace for photography on location, and Aaron Dowd at Simplecast for your support.Bookend theme music from colleague and founder of Songwriting with: Soldiers, Darden Smith, with contributions from the David Shaw's Documentary Second Century Stewardship soundtrack co-written by Kevin Oates and Ron Hirschberg, finishing Warrior, but James House and Air Force Veteran Blair Morin The views expressed by guests to the Home Base Nation podcastare their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Massachusetts General Hospital, Home Base, the Red Sox Foundation or any of its officials.
Travis Mills is a hilarious father (who loves awkward comedy) that has made the best of some of the hardest things a man can go through. You will enjoy this interview from start to finish and feel like you know him by the end. His story will inspire you to live up to your potential and his saying "Never Give Up. Never Quit." is being lived out by example. You can find everything you need to know about Travis and his mission at https://www.travismills.org/Sweet Loot and his book and Documentary (very inspiring) https://travismills.myshopify.com/Travis Mills Foundation https://travismillsfoundation.org/
On April 14, 2012 Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills woke up in a hospital in Germany after spending 4 days in a coma. It was his 25th birthday. 4 days earlier he had been blown up by an IED in Afghanistan and was now a quadruple amputee. I was honored to speak with Travis and to hear his story first hand. He is the epitome of resilience and is someone who honestly does not dwell on the past. As Travis says “you can’t always control the situation but you can control your attitude.” Despite missing all four limbs Travis says he doesn’t think of himself as different than any other person. He just “has a few more steps to get ready in the morning.” Travis shares his story and recovery journey with us and also talks about the importance of getting mental health help when you need it. Travis and his wife Kelsey run the Travis Mills Foundation, which is a non-profit for recalibrated warriors and their families. To learn more about this amazing organization visit https://travismillsfoundation.org/
It's been a tremendous opportunity to learn from Travis, and we end this AMXbooks series with some of his guiding wisdom. We also take a look at what he does now to help wounded and disabled veterans get a new chance at life (Travis Mills Foundation). For more w/ The Spaniard: Subscribe to The Spaniard Show's email list: https://charliespaniard.com/email Support The Spaniard Show - https://patreon.com/charliespaniard Website/Bookings/Reading List: https://charliespaniard.com Book: https://amzn.to/2QPcf1P Facebook: https://facebook.com/charliespaniard Twitter: https://twitter.com/charliespaniard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charliespaniard Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/charliespaniard Subscribe to The Spaniard Show: iTunes - https://apple.co/2kxob7j Google Play - https://play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/Irpy2px7edqbwiwpil2ab2jq4me Stitcher - https://bit.ly/2qUBRPb OR search "Spaniard Show" on any podcast app
FINALLY!!! We get to interview the brains behind the Travis Mills Foundation, Brandy Mills-Cain. With a philosophy of "Who say's?!", Brandy has made a career of carving her own destiny. Well beyond her years as an executive, Brandy stood out as an obvious choice to champion the Travis Mills Foundation's mission. After volunteering for some time, Brandy took the reins of TMF and, in a short time, has captained the rise of the Foundation from small supports to one of the most successful organizations helping our veterans and their families. Using her experience working at Paralympics and NASCAR, Brandy seems to have found a fit for her motto for life at TMF. Brandy has a magnetic personality and a self-confidence that both rivals and compliments that of Travis'. No surprise that Travis and Brandy work so well together. Enjoy!Support the show (https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/242424.rss)
Chris Roseberry (1SG ret.) lost a foot early in his career in the military and went back into the battle with a prosthetic to serve fourteen more years. Upon retiring from the military, Chris and his wife, Kelly (who met Travis while working at Walter Reed) moved to Maine to work alongside Travis and the Foundation to realize their goals. A pivotal member of the Travis Mills Foundation, Chris oversees the day-to-day maintenance of the facility. Chris' life has been one of service to his country and to his fellow warriors. Chris has become an integral part of an organization called Dogs For Our Brave, an organization designed to provide service dogs to veterans at no cost (this includes food and other maintenance). Even more than that, the dogs are all resuce dogs! Having been on the receiving end of his own service dog, Gabby, Chris found it easy to get on board with their mission and has become a primary spokesperson for the organization. Truly a remarkable and humble guy. Support the show (https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/242424.rss)
LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE 216 WITH TRAVIS BELOWRetired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis’s New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life’s challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. Travis lives by his motto:On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries.Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit.In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s great outdoors.The Travis Mills Group LLC was started shortly after, where Travis consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life’s challenges and adversity.Travis’s story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News’ Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.Thousands of soldiers die each year to defend their country. United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills was sure that he would become another statistic when, during his third tour of duty in Afghanistan, he was caught in an IED blast, four days before his twenty-fifth birthday. Against all odds, he lived, but at a severe cost—Travis became one of only five soldiers from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to survive a quadruple amputation.Suddenly forced to reconcile with the fact that he no longer had arms or legs, Travis was faced with a future drastically different from the one he had imagined for himself. He would never again be able to lead his squad, hold his wife’s hand, or pick up his infant daughter.Travis struggled through the painful and anxious days of rehabilitation so that he could regain the strength to live his life to the fullest. With enormous willpower and endurance, the unconditional love of his family, and a generous amount of faith, Travis shocked everyone with his remarkable recovery. Even without limbs, he still swims, dances with his wife, rides mountain bikes, and drives his daughter to school.Travis inspires thousands every day with his remarkable journey. He doesn’t want to be thought of as wounded.- https://www.travismills.orgPlease do NOT hesitate to reach out to me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or via email mark@vudream.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-metry/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markmetry/Twitter - https://twitter.com/markymetryMedium - https://medium.com/@markymetryFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/Humans.2.0.PodcastMark Metry - https://www.markmetry.com/Humans 2.0 Twitter - https://twitter.com/Humans2Podcast
Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis's New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life's challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. Travis lives by his motto:On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries.Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit.In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine's great outdoors.The Travis Mills Group LLC was started shortly after, where Travis consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life's challenges and adversity.Travis's story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News' Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O'Reilly Factor with Bill O'Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.Thousands of soldiers die each year to defend their country. United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills was sure that he would become another statistic when, during his third tour of duty in Afghanistan, he was caught in an IED blast, four days before his twenty-fifth birthday. Against all odds, he lived, but at a severe cost—Travis became one of only five soldiers from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to survive a quadruple amputation.Suddenly forced to reconcile with the fact that he no longer had arms or legs, Travis was faced with a future drastically different from the one he had imagined for himself. He would never again be able to lead his squad, hold his wife's hand, or pick up his infant daughter.Travis struggled through the painful and anxious days of rehabilitation so that he could regain the strength to live his life to the fullest. With enormous willpower and endurance, the unconditional love of his family, and a generous amount of faith, Travis shocked everyone with his remarkable recovery. Even without limbs, he still swims, dances with his wife, rides mountain bikes, and drives his daughter to school.Travis inspires thousands every day with his remarkable journey. He doesn't want to be thought of as wounded.- https://www.travismills.orgPlease do NOT hesitate to reach out to me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or via email mark@vudream.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-metry/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markmetry/Twitter - https://twitter.com/markymetryMedium - https://medium.com/@markymetryFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/Humans.2.0.PodcastMark Metry - https://www.markmetry.com/Humans 2.0 Twitter - https://twitter.com/Humans2Podcast
Retired United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne is a recalibrated warrior, motivational speaker, actor, author and an advocate for veterans and amputees. Travis’s New York Times bestselling memoir, Tough as They Come, is currently available on sale in bookstores everywhere. Despite losing portions of both arms and legs from an IED while on active duty in Afghanistan, Travis continues to overcome life’s challenges, breaking physical barriers and defying odds. Travis lives by his motto:On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries.Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the heroic actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, near Washington D.C., Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit.In September 2013, Travis and his wife Kelsey founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist post 9/11 veterans who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation. The veteran and their families receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation to Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s great outdoors.The Travis Mills Group LLC was started shortly after, where Travis consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life’s challenges and adversity.Travis’s story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News’ Happening Now with Jenna Lee, The O’Reilly Factor with Bill O’Reilly, CNN with Barbara Starr, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.Thousands of soldiers die each year to defend their country. United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills was sure that he would become another statistic when, during his third tour of duty in Afghanistan, he was caught in an IED blast, four days before his twenty-fifth birthday. Against all odds, he lived, but at a severe cost—Travis became one of only five soldiers from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to survive a quadruple amputation.Suddenly forced to reconcile with the fact that he no longer had arms or legs, Travis was faced with a future drastically different from the one he had imagined for himself. He would never again be able to lead his squad, hold his wife’s hand, or pick up his infant daughter.Travis struggled through the painful and anxious days of rehabilitation so that he could regain the strength to live his life to the fullest. With enormous willpower and endurance, the unconditional love of his family, and a generous amount of faith, Travis shocked everyone with his remarkable recovery. Even without limbs, he still swims, dances with his wife, rides mountain bikes, and drives his daughter to school.Travis inspires thousands every day with his remarkable journey. He doesn’t want to be thought of as wounded.- https://www.travismills.orgPlease do NOT hesitate to reach out to me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or via email mark@vudream.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-metry/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markmetry/Twitter - https://twitter.com/markymetryMedium - https://medium.com/@markymetryFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/Humans.2.0.PodcastMark Metry - https://www.markmetry.com/Humans 2.0 Twitter - https://twitter.com/Humans2Podcast
A couple months ago when I was out in Maine, I had the opportunity to sit down with an absolutely incredible man who went from lying nearly dead on the battlefield of Afghanistan to losing portions of both his arms and legs to now running an organization dedicated to serving and developing injured members of our military. His name is Travis Mills and today, he talks with us about choosing your attitude and approach towards life, maintaining composure in chaos, learning how to ask for and accept help, and how to rise above the victim mentality. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Choosing not to be a victim of your circumstances Choosing your attitude How to effectively lead from the front How to maintain composure in chaos How to keep from dwelling on the past Using your challenges to help others with theirs Learning to ask for and accept help Recognizing opportunities and big-picture thinking How to keep yourself and your ego in check Being able to adapt when life throws you a curveball Striking the balance between being satisfied and wanting to grow How to focus on the things you can control TRAVIS MILLS My guest today is an absolutely incredible and inspiring man. His name is Travis Mills and he is a retired United States Army Staff Sergeant with the 82nd Airborne Division. He's also one of only 5 quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq in Afghanistan to survive his injuries. But more than simply survive, Travis is thriving in life with his beautiful family, multiple successful businesses, and the Travis Mills Foundation in Maine. He is a New York Times Bestselling author, a motivational speaker, an actor, and an advocate for both amputees and veterans. Today, he's here to talk with us about his life-changing injuries and how he's overcome extreme adversity to serve himself, his family, and those who have gone through similar experiences as him. Please leave us a review at https://orderofman.com/itunes Shownotes: https://orderofman.com/203 Website: https://orderofman.com
Physical therapist Kelly Roseberry, tells us about the Travis Mills Foundation, a special retreat for war-wounded veterans, the man who started it, and all that it represents to the wounded warriors. She also discusses what brought her to the organization, how the retreat works, and why its emphasis on family is so vitally important. https://www.moveforwardpt.com/Radio/Detail/retreat-injured-veterans-families-adapts-activitie
Kelly McGaughey PT, DPT is the Program Director for the Travis Mills Foundation. She joined the Foundation after spending several years as a full time Physical Therapist and Center Coordinator of Clinical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She relocated to Maine in the summer of 2017. The Travis Mills Foundation supports post 9/11 recalibrated veterans and their families through long-term programs that help these heroic men and women overcome physical obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation. We support these veterans through our nationally recognized retreat located in the Belgrade Lakes Region of Maine. Veteran families who have been injured in active duty or as a result of their service to our nation receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses paid, barrier-free vacation in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors. In 2017 we hosted 84 veteran families that participated in adaptive sports and activities. Website: https://travismillsfoundation.org/
It’s rare when we meet someone who can change our perception of ourselves and our struggles instantaneously. The Team Never Quit Podcast is honored to bring one of those people to the show this week. Navy SEALs, Marcus Luttrell, David Rutherford, and the Wizard welcome, retired Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills. Travis is one of only five quadruple amputees from the Iraq and Afghan Wars. Prepare yourself as Travis tells his greatest #neverquitstory and vividly describes the challenges of learning to thrive with no arms and no legs. SSG Mills has taken this devastating blow and turned it into a profound blessing for himself, his family, and all the veterans and their families he helps on a regular basis. Travis transcends the human condition and effortlessly inspires all those he comes in contact with. Stand by for this week’s epic #TNQPodcast episode. “Never give up. Never Quit.” #Greatstoriesignitelegends Support the show.
Some people are strong. Some are tough. Some seem unstoppable. And then there’s Travis Mills of the Travis Mills Foundation, who will redefine all of those words for you. He’ll tell you that he’s like anyone else. He just had a bad day at work. But Mills’s job at the time was Staff Sergeant for the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. And that bad day—April 10, 2012—took away both his arms and his legs. Today Mills is a quadruple amputee—one of five U.S. servicemen to lose all of his limbs to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. But ask and he’ll tell you that he doesn’t consider himself a wounded warrior. Why? “I’m not wounded,” Mills says. Instead, Mills considers himself a “recalibrated warrior” — one who’s defied all odds and surpassed every expectation on his road to recovery. He taught himself how to walk, then run, then do an incredible number of other things you might not expect: swim, fish, and do CrossFit. He completed his rehabilitation at Walter Reed Medical Center in about half the time doctors thought it would take. Along the way, he made lifting the spirits of other injured veterans his new mission. “I met everybody there. I was one of the first people they got to talk to when they got to the hospital,” Mills says. “I think that was impactful because, at Walter Reed, the worst amputation you're going to see is me. "So here’s a guy with no arms and legs who either rolls or walks into your room and is like, ‘Hey, man. What's up? How's life treating you? You're in a great spot, you're going to get better, and I can't wait to see you down there. We'll work out together one day.’ It really is uplifting.Aa lot of the guys were really thankful for that.” Today Mills is a speaker, an author, an actor, and the head of a foundation that’s helping other critically injured vets recalibrate their own lives, the Travis Mills Foundation. This year the foundation opened a beautiful wooded retreat in Central Maine where soldiers who’ve lost limbs can spend a week with their families free of charge. “And I can tell you right now, I'm the president [of the foundation] and I have six other wonderful board members -- we're never going to pay ourselves,” Mills says. “We don't take a dime for this, and all the money raised goes towards the project, it goes towards the Travis Mills Foundation, and the retreat, and bringing the families up so the families don't have any cost when they get up here.” The retreat is already earning incredible praise from the servicemen and women that it’s served. And it’s going the extra mile to help even more. Initially scheduled to stay open only through the end of October, the retreat extended its inaugural season in order to help military families displaced by the Hurricanes in Texas and Florida. In this episode, you’ll find out how Travis survived his terrible injuries, who inspired him to take on an excruciating recovery, and how he learned to walk again with some help from his young daughter, Chloe. You’ll also learn how a past guest on Crazy Good Turns, The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, helped Travis, his wife, Kelsey, and Chloe, get back to a more normal life. And you’ll hear one inspiring, incredible quote after another from a man who is truly unstoppable.
Kelly McGaughey is a physical therapist who used to work with combat-injured vets at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, DC. She is now program manager for the Travis Mills Foundation. Retired US Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills lost parts of all four limbs while serving in Afghanistan. He went on to establish his Foundation, which recently opened an amazing retreat in Maine for other combat-injured vets and their families. As program director, Kelly helped develop all of the programs and run the retreat. In this podcast, she talks about why she took on the challenge, how things went this first summer, and what they are hoping to accomplish.
0:00:00 - Opening. 0:08:38 - Travis Mills 0:29:22 - First Deployment. 0:36:57 - R&R... And Romance. 0:41:31 - Re-Deploy. 1:05:22 - Home for Leave. 1:26:33 - Re-Deployment. 1:39:49 - Wounded by an IED. 2:03:25 - Recovery. Pain. Family Support. 2:22:28 - Moving to Maine. 2:24:12 - Starting the Travis Mills Foundation. 2:27:34 - Final Thoughts. 2:32:46 - Support, JockoStore stuff, Origin Brand Apparel, with Jocko White Tea and Psychological Warfare (on iTunes). Extreme Ownership (book), The Discipline Equals Freedom Field Manual. Extreme Ownership Muster 004 in San Diego. 2:53:54 - Closing Gratitude.
It's always humbling to speak with a combat Veteran and even more inspiring to speak with one like this week's guest, Travis Mills. Travis joins the podcast this week to talk about his service, his injuries, his foundation, being a motivational speaker, and being a "re-calibrated warrior." Covered in Episode 39: Marine Veteran breaks world record to fight stigma Interview with Army Veteran Travis Mills Why he decided to join the Army Three deployments to Afghanistan Sustaining his injuries and recovering from them Meeting the President His efforts through his foundation and as a speaker VA's most important resource: Veterans Crisis Line #VeteranOfTheDay Army Veteran George Pappas
Thanks to his amazing strength, courage, an incredible will to live, the courageous actions of the men in his unit, the prayers of thousands, and all the healthcare providers at the Walter Reed, Travis remains on the road to recovery. Every day is a battle, but Travis continues to astound friends and family alike with his progress and with his amazing spirit. SSG Travis Mills is a genuine American hero, and for his incredible sacrifice, we are forever in his debt. Staff Sergeant Travis Mills US Army Ret Wounded warrior, motivational speaker, actor, and an advocate for veterans and amputees Travis's story has been featured on local and national news including Fox News' Happening Now with Jenna Lee and The O'Reilly Factor with Bill O'Reilly. On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries. In September 2013, Travis founded the Travis Mills Foundation, a nonprofit organization, formed to benefit and assist wounded and injured veterans. Travis and the foundation are actively involved with several veterans' organizations including, Veterans Family Camp in Belgrade, Maine. Travis also founded the Travis Mills Group, LLC where he consults with and speaks to companies and organizations nationwide inspiring all to overcome life's challenges and adversity. www.travismills.org