Trust. Resilience. Leadership. In the military, they weren't optional-they were life or death. But after service? No one hands you a guidebook on how to apply those same skills to the real world.

Michael Allison knows this firsthand. A Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Michael faced combat, injury, and the challenges of transition head-on. Now, as the CEO of The Adversity Academy, he's helping veterans and professionals alike redefine leadership, conquer adversity, and take control of their lives.

In this episode, Michael shares:

Timestamps:

02:15 - Lessons in trust and leadership from combat

07:30 - Preparing for the unexpected: Why training matters in business and life

14:15 - The Break the Bottle Challenge: A new approach to resilience

25:00 - How adversity can shape your future success

38:45 - Building the right team: Why relationships are everything

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Chronic pain is something many veterans live with every day, whether it's from service-related injuries or the wear and tear of life. But what if you didn't have to rely on pain meds or go under the knife to get relief?

Dr. Winifred Bragg, a board-certified pain management physician, has spent over 25 years helping people treat back, neck, and orthopedic pain-without surgery. In this episode, she breaks down the biggest myths about back pain, why so many people rush into surgery unnecessarily, and what you can do right now to manage your pain naturally.

She also shares her "MEDS" method-Mindset, Exercise, Doing what you love, and Sleep-simple changes that can make a massive difference in your pain levels. Plus, we dive into what spinal stenosis and herniated discs mean for your health and how to tell if you're seeing the right doctor for your pain.

This episode is a must-listen if you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain.

Timestamps:

02:00 - Why most back pain doesn't need surgery

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Knives have always been more than just tools for veterans-they're symbols of skill, precision, and independence. But what happens when injuries or years of service-related wear make it harder to use the tools you once mastered? Doug Katz, a West Point graduate and disabled Army veteran, saw firsthand how physical limitations can steal confidence in the kitchen. So, he did what veterans do best. He adapted and overcame, creating the NULU Knife, a tool designed to give control back to those who need it most.

In this episode, Doug shares his journey from the military to entrepreneurship and how he developed an adaptive knife that goes beyond making cooking easier-it helps veterans regain confidence and control in the kitchen. Whether you're dealing with combat injuries, arthritis, or aging joints, this conversation will change how you think about the tools you use daily.

We also get into the veteran mindset regarding using gear, why traditional kitchen knives don't work for everyone, and how small innovations can make a huge impact on everyday life. If you've ever struggled with something that used to feel second nature, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

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Addiction isn't just a bad habit-it's your brain craving relief. For many veterans, that relief comes in the form of smoking, drinking, or even harder substances to cope with PTSD, stress, or physical pain. But what if you could break free without white-knuckling through withdrawal?

In this episode, Meridee Hlokoff shares how she went from struggling with addiction herself to running Laser Quit, a business using cold laser therapy to help people quit smoking, drinking, and even heavy drugs. By targeting the brain's addiction response at its core, this method tricks the mind into thinking it's already had its fix-eliminating cravings and making it easier to step away from harmful substances.

We break down:

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, this episode is a must-listen. Stick around for actionable advice that could make all the difference.

Timestamps:

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Many veterans struggle with anxiety, PTSD, and the hidden battles that linger long after their service ends. Army veteran and licensed professional counselor Healey Ikerd understands that firsthand. With over 17 years in the mental health field, she combines clinical expertise with personal experience to help veterans navigate transition challenges, mental health, and personal growth.

In this episode, Healey shares why so many veterans feel disconnected after leaving the military, the surprising ways trauma surfaces in daily life, and how to develop healthy coping strategies. She also discusses the importance of faith in healing, the power of cognitive behavioral therapy, and why acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength-not weakness.

From practical mental health tips to discussing her workbook, Changing Your Feelings: A Workbook for Anxiety and Worry from a Christian Perspective, Healey offers a roadmap for veterans seeking peace and fulfillment beyond their service. Whether you're struggling yourself or want to support a loved one, this conversation is packed with insight and actionable steps.

Timestamps:

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A single decision changed everything for Mark O'Brien. One night in 2008, a tragic mistake led to the loss of someone he loved-and a journey of guilt, grief, and, ultimately, transformation. Mark shares his deeply personal story of learning to live with the consequences of his actions, facing the justice system, and finding a way to help others through advocacy and trauma-informed care.

He discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth-how individuals can come out of adversity stronger, with a deeper sense of purpose. His work now focuses on helping organizations support those affected by trauma, from addiction recovery to criminal justice reform. This episode is raw, real, and packed with lessons on accountability, resilience, and redemption.

For anyone struggling with guilt, grief, or finding a path forward after hardship, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Timestamps:

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A split-second decision, a devastating explosion, and a new reality. Marine Corps veteran Davey Lind lost both of his legs to an IED during his fifth combat deployment in Iraq. But instead of giving up, he made a commitment-to walk again, to push forward, and to inspire others. From the battlefield to becoming a CrossFit trainer and motivational speaker, Davey shares his journey of resilience, recovery, and rediscovering purpose. He talks about the mental battle of losing limbs, the power of a strong support system, and why he refuses to let injuries define his future. This episode is a must-listen for veterans looking for inspiration to push past adversity and build a meaningful life after service.

00:00 - The blast that changed everything

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Retired Marine Corps Major Eric Dominijanni shares his journey from the military to becoming the founder and CEO of FIOR Scotch. After years of service, Eric pursued his passion for fine spirits, applying the same discipline and commitment that defined his military career to crafting a high-quality Scotch. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from the Marine Corps into the spirits industry, the lessons he carried from military service, and how he built a veteran-owned brand from the ground up. Eric also shares insights on entrepreneurship, product development, and why attention to detail is crucial in the military and business worlds.

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Jay Wylie, a Navy veteran, shares his journey from addiction and career loss to sobriety and purpose. After being relieved of command and facing a public downfall due to alcoholism, Jay turned his life around through recovery and now dedicates himself to helping veterans and first responders battling addiction and homelessness. As a leader at Confidential Recovery and the Veterans Navigation Center, he provides veterans with resources, peer support, and structured recovery programs. Jay discusses how trauma, shame, and fear can fuel substance abuse and why community support is essential for lasting change.

00:02:30 - Struggling with alcoholism and self-destruction

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Dr. Ron Schneebaum, retired pediatrician and author of Bigger Hearted, shares his two-part approach to helping veterans heal their inner wounds. Drawing from his medical background and advocacy for mental health, he emphasizes the importance of reframing military experiences and practicing focused inner listening. Dr. Schneebaum explains how embracing love and compassion can help veterans process trauma, find self-acceptance, and lead more fulfilling lives. He also shares actionable strategies and offers free Zoom workshops to support veterans in their healing journey.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ron Schneebaum and Bigger Hearted

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