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In this powerful continuation of our conversation, Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of Tiwaz Awakening, Luke Jensen, returns to take us deeper into the world of brain mapping, neurofeedback, and the science behind trauma healing.

We go beyond plant medicine in this episode—exploring the cognitive and neurological impacts of PTSD, depression, and emotional trauma. Luke breaks down how QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback can provide visible, measurable improvements in brain function—often helping clients recover from years of trauma without pharmaceuticals.

We also talk about:
🧠 What your brain waves reveal about your mental health
🌿 The role of neuroplasticity in healing
🧬 Luke’s published studies on ayahuasca, San Pedro, and coca leaf
🎬 His award-winning documentary Cross Paths
🇮🇸 Upcoming retreats in Peru and Iceland
👨‍🔬 And why science is finally catching up to what ancient traditions knew all along

Luke is not only contributing groundbreaking research to this field—he’s also leading by example, bringing together plant medicine, martial arts, and brain science to create one of the most integrative healing retreats in the world.

🔗 Learn more about upcoming retreats: https://twasawakening.com
🧠 Brain mapping & neurofeedback: https://neuroenlightenment.com
📖 Read Luke’s article in W3 Magazine: https://jessievirga.com/w3magazine
🎥 Watch Part 1 here: https://youtu.be/44WGX0zV7Ds

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Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
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From the battlefield to the sacred circle, Marine Corps veteran Luke Jensen shares his powerful journey of healing through ayahuasca, jiu jitsu, and deep spiritual work. In this episode, we explore the origins of Tiwaz Awakening, a retreat in the Peruvian Andes that blends plant medicine, martial arts, hiking, and neurofeedback to reconnect the soul with the body.

Luke and I dive into the discipline behind real shamanic practice, the importance of preparation, and the sacred nature of these ancient rituals—far from the trendy fads we often see in pop culture.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
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https://www.jessie...

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In this episode, I break down the latest U.S. Intelligence Community assessment on Iran—and why the threat is more serious than ever. Following Iran’s successful attack on Israel and the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, we take a deeper look at Iran’s military ambitions, cyber warfare, proxy networks, and internal instability. This isn’t just about the Middle East—this is a global threat that demands attention. Stay informed. Stay prepared.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

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Featured on Fox News and now on the Dr. Virga Podcast

In this powerful new episode, Marine Corps veteran Joey Mac Dizon shares how he turned his love for cigars and camaraderie into The Mobile Cigar Lounge — a nationally recognized, veteran-owned business that delivers curated cigar experiences to weddings, private events, and corporate celebrations across the country.

More than just cigars, Joey’s story is about brotherhood, nostalgia, and building a business rooted in service. From lighting cigars at retirement ceremonies to honoring family memories, his team has created a unique and meaningful way to connect with others — one celebration at a time.

🎙️ Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.
 🎁 Book now and mention The Dr. Virga Podcast for 20 extra cigars with your package.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

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In this episode, I break down my full EDC backpack—what I call my "get-me-to-safety" bag.
Built for real-world emergencies, this isn’t about flashy gear—it’s about medical essentials, survival tools, dual-use items, and smart packing that could save your life if home is compromised.

From my Leatherman ARC and Nitecore power bank to my Grail water filter and MSR Pocket Rocket stove, I walk you through what I carry, why it matters, and how I’ve built this bag to adapt with the seasons.

🔧 Real gear. 💡 Real use. ❤️ Real tribute to a Marine who never stopped checking in.
 Don't forget to subscribe and drop a comment—what’s in your EDC bag?

#EDC #GetHomeBag #EverydayCarry #Preparedness #SurvivalGear #VeteranOwned #DrVirgaPodcast

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

Send us a text

From full-size sidearms to a mission-ready Garmin Tactix 7 Pro watch — this is my everyday carry (EDC) setup built from years of real-world experience as a medic, veteran, and first responder. Every piece has a purpose. Stay agile. Stay ready. Let’s break it down.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

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From the front lines to figurines — in this episode of the Dr. Virga Podcast, I sit down with retired Army combat medic and owner of Tactics 2 Toys, Anthony Ciotti. We dive into his 30+ years of military service, how he turned a love for pop culture into a thriving collectibles business, and the ups and downs of veteran entrepreneurship. If you're a fan of horror, hip hop, D&D, or just a good underdog story — this one’s for you.

🎧 Available on:
 YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio

🛒 Check out Anthony’s store: https://www.tactics2toys.com

--

Anthony Ciotti, Tactics 2 Toys, Dr. Virga Podcast, veteran entrepreneur, combat medic, military to business, Army Reserve, pop culture collectibles, e-commerce success story, horror collectibles, action figure business, D&D community, board game seller, veteran small business, military transition, veteran-owned business, toy collector, entrepreneurship for veterans, online toy store, collectible toys

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

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Special Guest: Anthony Ciotti, US ARMY Combat Medic, Retired

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

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Think EDC is just a trend? Think again. In this episode, we uncover the real history of Everyday Carry—how humans have been carrying essential tools from the Stone Age to the digital age. From Roman satchels to modern pocket dumps, EDC has always been about survival, identity, and readiness.

Whether you're minimalist or tactical, your gear tells a story.
So what’s in your pocket?

Watch now and discover how EDC evolved into a culture—and a way of life.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...

Send us a text

In this episode, I sit down with Navy veteran and entrepreneur Jason McNamara, founder of the No More 9 to 5 Club & Foundation. From Guantanamo Bay to top-tier sales to building a life of purpose and peace, Jason shares powerful lessons on trusting your gut, building generational wealth, and creating businesses that serve people—not just profits. Whether you’re a veteran, aspiring entrepreneur, or just tired of the 9 to 5 grind, this episode will leave you inspired to take control of your life.

🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward your own 9 to 5 exit.

Support the show

Welcome to Jessie Virga’s channel, where she shares insights on her wide array of interests. Jessie also hosts an audio podcast (link below).

Jessie Virga hails from the Bronx and has an extensive background in security and defense, having spent 10 years in the military in various security roles. Following her military service, she pursued a degree in Cognitive Behavioral Neuroscience from UCSD and briefly pursued medical school. Realizing her true passion lay elsewhere, she transitioned back to security work with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security, earning both an MBA and a DBA in Homeland Security. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology.

Jessie’s career has always focused on protecting people, information, and infrastructure. Her dedication extends beyond her professional life. She volunteers for Search and Rescue, works as a part-time EMT (TCCC/TECC), and enjoys hiking, backpacking, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and staying active.

In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jessie is an entrepreneur. She owns several businesses, including a nonprofit animal welfare organization, K&L Animal Rescue. Jessie is eager to share her extensive knowledge and experiences through her journeys. These thoughts are her own, and she welcomes engaging with those who have something interesting to share. Feel free to reach out via email.

Thank you for being here, and God Bless.
__
https://www.jessie...