When Steve went out the door, he had no idea what was ahead. Their story is one of love and resilience. From the long-term effects of TBI to the frustrations of navigating the healthcare system, they have partnered together to not only rebuild their lives but also help others do the same.

Our first episode highlights the challenges faced by the National Guard Special Forces community, particularly in the aftermath of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Steve and Monica discuss the lack of a clear mechanism for supporting spouses of injured soldiers and the cultural reluctance to seek help. They emphasize the need for specialized care, such as MRI with contrast, which was initially unavailable. Ultimately, they stress the generational impact of these injuries and the role of organizations like The Soldier Fund in providing immediate support.

This episode features Ben Derrick interviewing two National Guard Special Forces soldiers about their experiences and the unique challenges they face. The soldiers discuss their career paths, including the rigorous selection process and the physical and mental demands of their roles. They highlight the importance of teamwork, language proficiency, and cultural understanding in their missions. The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of their work, the difficulties in accessing healthcare, and the impact on their families.

Dr. Frueh, a psychologist, discusses his work with military populations, particularly focusing on "Operator Syndrome," a term he coined to describe the unique challenges special operations personnel face. He highlights common symptoms like traumatic brain injury, sleep disturbances, hormonal dysregulation, and cognitive impairments. Dr. Frueh emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment, including lifestyle adaptations and medical interventions like stellate ganglion block therapy and ketamine infusions.