On this episode of the Journey to Purpose Podcast, Gene Campbell shares how a passion for bass fishing became a mission to heal — exploring how his nonprofit True Patriot Outfitters uses therapeutic outdoor experiences like kayak fishing to support veterans on their journey to recovery and purpose.
Gene shares his journey from being a competitive bass fisherman to establishing a nonprofit that provides therapeutic outdoor experiences for veterans. He discusses the challenges and rewards of running a nonprofit, emphasizing the importance of transparency and community support in sustaining their mission. Gene also highlights the unique benefits of fishing as a therapeutic tool, explaining how it fosters mindfulness and connection to nature, which can be particularly healing for those dealing with trauma.
Throughout the conversation, Gene reflects on his personal experiences, including the impact of his supportive wife and the lessons learned from his journey. He outlines the structure of their fishing trips, which range from half-day excursions to multi-day camping adventures, all aimed at creating a supportive environment for veterans to share their stories and bond over shared experiences. The episode concludes with Gene's vision for the future of True Patriot Outfitters, including plans for mobile retreats that can reach veterans in various communities, demonstrating his commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of those who have served.
Takeaways
"This is where I'm supposed to be doing what I'm doing."
"Fishing creates a hyper focus that silences some things around you."
"We want to create a mobile retreat that can take the healing to the veterans."
"Transparency is key in the veteran support space."
"Every day I’m looking for my next flugelbinder to supplement the income."
"We never say no to a veteran who wants to go fishing."
"The real healing starts to take place sitting around a campfire, trading stories."
"We’re not curing anything, but the work we’re doing is vital."
"I realized it’s not about me; it’s about serving others better."
"We’re trying to create an organization that lives beyond me."
Sound bites
""This is where I'm supposed to be doing what I'm doing.""
""Fishing creates a hyper focus that silences some things around you.""
""We want to create a mobile retreat that can take the healing to the veterans.""
About Gene Campbell and True Patriot outfiiters:
True Patriot Outfitters is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families through purposeful outdoor experiences. Guided by the motto “Fishin’ with a mission,” the organization provides free kayak fishing trips and outdoor adventures that promote healing, connection, and community. By bringing people together in nature, True Patriot Outfitters helps participants find support, restore hope, and build lasting camaraderie beyond the uniform.
https://truepatriotoutfitters....
[email protected]
About Philippa Bagley
I’m a Professional Speaker and Therapist with a diverse background that includes military service and teaching.Like many people, I grew tired of corporate life and retrained in a range of therapies.
Now, I combine my extensive qualifications to assist individuals and organisations in boosting their communication, connection, and confidence. This enables them to make a significant impact on the
world.I am passionately committed to mentoring clients, helping them overcome issues related to confidence, anxiety, and trauma, unlocking their potential, achieving their highest goals, and building mental resilience.
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/...
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil...
🌐 Website: https://philippabagley.com/
Journey to Purpose is a personal transformation podcast featuring real conversations about mindset, trauma recovery, self-worth, spiritual awakening, resilience, and finding your life’s purpose. New episodes every week. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Of0Na1qWovS8Aw2X2FU8M 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philippa.bagley/ 🌐 Website: https://philippabagley.com/ Subscribe and leave a review — it helps others find the show.
About your host
Pippa Bagley is a clinical hypnotherapist specialising in burnout and sleep, and the host of Journey to Purpose. Based in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, she is passionate about helping people reconnect with what truly matters — and build lives and careers that feel genuinely sustainable. Pippa is also studying for an MSc in the Neuroscience and Psychology of Mental Health at King’s College London. Find out more at philippabagley.com