At some point in our lives we'll lose someone or something that defines our very being. How we respond to that loss will test our character to its foundation.

Sara Wilkinson lost her husband when he died by suicide in 2018. Navy SEAL Chad Wilkinson was one of our nation's finest Special Operators, having served 21 years in the Navy, with many of those on Seal Team 6. Sara joined host Fran Racioppi to share the love story between her and Chad, reducing the stigmas around Veteran suicide, what it takes to serve as a military spouse and the Chad1000X WOD. 

Read the full episode transcription here and learn more on The Jedburgh Podcast Website.

Highlights:

-Sara and Chad met in high school and continued their love story through college and a long distance relationship.

-We are wired to do exactly what we want to do. Sara discusses Chad’s calling to the Navy SEALS and his love for the unit and service. 

-Sara explains how military spouses must be fearless, independent and resilient.

-Operator Syndrome and the continuous drive of elite performers to compartmentalize suffering and pain is both necessary for success but detrimental to their health.

-Why we need to change the language and stigma around death by suicide.

-Chad suffered from Interface Astroglial Scarring which contributed to Post Traumatic Stress.

-Sara’s advice to military spouses and the spouse’s role as a first responder in the health of the service member.

-The CrossFit community is life changing for many as shared suffering develops the habits to improve both mental and physical fitness.

-Chad1000X is the WOD tribute to Chad Wilkinson; Fran challenges Sara to join him in completing the workout together at Sandlot Jax. 

-Sara defines “Live Big” and talks about this year’s Boston Frogman Swim June 12.

Quotes:

-”He had this blue collared shirt on. I saw his profile. I was done.”

-”I think  you have to be incredibly independent because you are going to spend an exorbitant amount of time alone.”

-You have to be “fearless because your person is gonna be gone and you’re not going to know what they’re doing.”

-“Resilient because you have to go through all these hardships on a daily basis and keep pushing yourself forward regardless.”

-”People commit burglary. People commit murder. People do not commit suicide. People die by suicide.”

-”If you’ve made the decision to marry this person you love, who’s an operator for 20 years serving our country, your job is to safeguard his health whether you realize it or not…If you see something, say something.”

-”If you doubt me then I am 100% gonna do it, just to prove to you that I can do it.” 

-“If you are a very good CrossFit trainer it means you are designed with the unique ability to allow others to find the best within themselves.”

-”Anyone can do this workout…but you do have to have a little bit of grit.”

-“For me, living big means not holding back.”

Sara’s Three Daily Foundations to Success:

-Write because the written word is powerful

-Exercise

-Ride my skateboard to feel free

This episode is brought to you by Jersey Mike’s, 18A Fitness, Analytix Solutions and The Readiness Collective.