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This conversation explores the life journey of Mitch, detailing his struggles with addiction, the impact of his upbringing, and his eventual path to recovery. Through candid storytelling, Mitch shares his experiences with substance abuse, legal troubles, and the transformative power of sobriety. The discussion emphasizes the importance of support systems, personal accountability, and the ongoing journey of recovery.

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Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

In this conversation, Benjamin Mendoza shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Long Beach, California, to a successful military career. He discusses the impact of his family dynamics, struggles with ADHD, and the challenges of balancing personal life with military duties. Mendoza reflects on his experiences with alcohol, the importance of seeking help for mental health issues, and the camaraderie found in military life. He also shares insights on his deployment experiences and aspirations for the future, including continuing his education and career in the military. In this conversation, Jeremy and Ben discuss various aspects of military life, focusing on the dynamics between retention and recruiting missions in the Army, the importance of organizational skills, experiences during joint forces training in the Philippines, career progression within the Army, and personal life after service, including family and pursuing a passion for DJing.

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

Summary

This conversation explores Jerry’s journey through addiction, recovery, and personal growth. He shares his early influences, struggles with family dynamics, and the impact of loss. The discussion delves into the importance of service work, the role of 12-step programs, and the challenges of navigating relationships in recovery. Jerry emphasizes the significance of accountability, emotional awareness, and community support in the healing process. He reflects on the illusions of control, the slow path of recovery, and the miracles that come with sobriety.

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

Summary

This conversation explores Raymond’s journey from a challenging upbringing in Albuquerque, New Mexico, marked by poverty and alcoholism, to his pursuit of education and personal growth. He shares insights into his family dynamics, the impact of substance use, and his experiences in the military, highlighting the struggles and triumphs that shaped his identity and recovery.

In this conversation, Raymond shares his profound journey through addiction, recovery, and the impact of family dynamics on his life. He reflects on his educational pursuits while balancing family responsibilities, the challenges of understanding love, and the importance of surrendering to a higher power. He emphasizes the role of pain as a motivator for change and the necessity of daily spiritual maintenance in recovery. He discusses the complexities of making amends, navigating relationships, and the significance of community support, particularly for veterans. Ultimately, he delivers a powerful message of hope for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

The conversation explores the journey of a veteran navigating the challenges of transitioning from military life to civilian life, including struggles with substance abuse, the impact of personal loss, legal troubles, and the journey towards recovery. It highlights the importance of support systems, mental health awareness, and advocacy for veterans, particularly in the context of suicide prevention and community involvement.

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

In this conversation, Scott shares his journey from military service to personal struggles, including health challenges and family dynamics. He reflects on his experiences in Iraq and Bosnia, the impact of PTSD, and the coping mechanisms he employed, including substance abuse. The discussion highlights the complexities of life as a veteran and the importance of mental health awareness. In this conversation, Scott shares his experiences transitioning to a new unit and preparing for deployment to Iraq. He discusses the challenges faced during training, the realities of combat, and the impact of IEDs on his unit. Scott recounts a traumatic incident where he experienced an out-of-body moment after being injured, his evacuation, and the subsequent recovery process. He reflects on the struggles of reintegrating into civilian life, the complexities of family dynamics, and the challenges of navigating the VA system for disability claims related to PTSD and TBI.

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

Summary

In this conversation, Chief Michael Morang shares his extensive military career, detailing his journey from joining the Navy in 1987 to his experiences as a corpsman with the Marine Corps. He discusses the challenges and misconceptions he faced, the cultural differences between the Navy and Marine Corps, and the personal growth he experienced throughout his service. Morang reflects on his early days, bootcamp experiences, and the lessons learned from his father, ultimately highlighting the importance of leadership and accountability in the military.

Further, Mike details his journey as a military medic who faced numerous challenges, from innovative medical techniques in the field to personal struggles with depression and the importance of mentorship. Mike shares experiences of leadership, adapting to difficult situations, and the therapeutic role of fitness in overcoming adversity. Through recognition from superiors and the support of peers, he navigates the complexities of military life while maintaining a focus on family and personal growth.

Finally, Mike shares his transformative journey from military service to becoming a personal trainer, emphasizing the importance of fitness and camaraderie among veterans. He discusses the challenges he faced during his career transition, the impact of COVID-19 on his business, and the creation of a veteran fitness program that addresses not only physical health but also mental well-being. The conversation highlights various initiatives aimed at supporting veterans through fitness, equine therapy, and community engagement. This conversation delves into the challenges faced by veterans, the importance of community support, and the initiatives taken to address mental health and fitness through programs like Veterans Connect. The discussion highlights the need for understanding the risks veterans face, the significance of camaraderie, and the role of organizations like the YMCA in fostering a supportive environment. It also touches on the Veterans Court system and suicide prevention efforts, emphasizing the importance of outreach and engagement in the community.

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).

Send us a text

War changes you. It leaves scars—some you can see, and others that run far deeper. But no one should have to carry those burdens alone.

Welcome to Warfighters Diary, a podcast where combat veterans share their stories—raw, unfiltered, and real. These are the voices of those who’ve faced the unthinkable, lived through it, and are still fighting—not just on the battlefield, but at home.

This isn’t just about war. It’s about what comes after. The struggles with PTSD, depression, addiction—and the hope that comes with healing. Our mission? To show every veteran listening that help exists, recovery is possible, and you are never alone.

So whether you’re a fellow warrior, a loved one trying to understand, or someone who just wants to hear the truth behind the uniform… this is Warfighters Diary.

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](

Support the show

Support for Veterans & Their Loved Ones

If You’re a Veteran Needing Help:

Healthcare & Benefits: Visit [www.va.gov](https://www.va.gov) or call 1-800-698-2411 (MyVA411).

Mental Health & Crisis Support:

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 (Press 1), text 838255, or chat online at [www.veteranscrisisline.net](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net).

Addiction Treatment (Alcohol/Drugs):

VA provides free, confidential care, including detox, rehab, and counseling.

Call 1-800-827-1000 or find a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program near you: [www.va.gov/find-locations](https://www.va.gov/find-locations).

Online resources: [www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-use).

If You’re a Civilian (or Supporting a Loved One):

National Helpline (SAMHSA):

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (24/7, confidential, English/Spanish).

- Treatment locator: [www.findtreatment.gov](https://findtreatment.gov).