This Sober Vet | Veteran Sobriety & Recovery Podcast

What happens when an Army combat Veteran loses everything to alcoholism, ends up in jail, and discovers that the only person who can save his life is himself?

In this powerful episode of This Sober Vet Podcast, host and Army Veteran Joe Yurick sits down with fellow Army Veteran Sean Young for an unfiltered conversation about military drinking culture, alcohol addiction, combat trauma, domestic violence, accountability, Veterans Treatment Court, sobriety, and spiritual healing.

Sean served 12½ years in the U.S. Army as a forward observer, including combat deployments. Like many Veterans, his relationship with alcohol began early in his military career, where excessive drinking was often accepted as part of the culture.

But what started as drinking with fellow Soldiers eventually spiraled into destructive behavior, broken relationships, and a devastating relapse.

In December 2019, after a night of heavy drinking and a blackout, Sean learned that he had assaulted his wife. He turned himself in to authorities and spent 20 days in jail. It was there, after years of blaming everyone else for his problems, that Sean finally confronted a painful truth: he was responsible for his choices.

That realization became the beginning of a remarkable recovery journey.

Through the Anchorage Veterans Treatment Court, Sean found the accountability, structure, and support he needed to rebuild his life. Today, nearly six years into his sobriety journey, he uses his lived experience to help other Veterans navigate addiction recovery, trauma, and the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life.

But Sean's story doesn't stop with sobriety.

Joe and Sean explore his unexpected journey into shamanism, spiritual healing, ancestral connections, and holistic wellness. They discuss the importance of confronting painful emotions, processing grief, reconnecting with personal identity, and finding purpose beyond military service.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• How military drinking culture can normalize dangerous alcohol consumption
• Sean's experience with alcoholism, blackouts, and the consequences of addiction
• The moment in jail that changed his perspective on personal responsibility
• How Veterans Treatment Courts can provide a pathway toward recovery
• Why getting sober and actually healing are two different things
• The importance of peer support and Veterans helping Veterans
• Sean's journey into shamanism, spirituality, and alternative healing practices
• Men's mental health, emotional vulnerability, anger, and unresolved trauma
• Processing grief, rebuilding relationships, and learning to forgive
• Finding purpose through service, recovery advocacy, and helping others

This conversation challenges the belief that strength means hiding your emotions, refusing help, or pretending everything is fine.

Sometimes the strongest thing a Veteran can do is admit that something needs to change.

Sobriety isn't just about putting down the bottle. It's about confronting the person you were, taking responsibility for your choices, and discovering who you can become.

Whether you're a Veteran struggling with alcohol addiction, someone navigating PTSD or combat trauma, a family member supporting a loved one in recovery, or simply searching for a different path forward, Sean's story offers a powerful reminder that your past does not have to define your future.

Recovery Outloud Podcast

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

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What happens when a highly decorated Army Veteran stops performing strength and begins confronting the trauma her body has carried for years?

In this powerful episode of This Sober Vet Podcast, Joe Yurick sits down with Samantha Juan, a Filipina-Persian American writer, artist, speaker, Bronze Star recipient, Pat Tillman Scholar and the 2026 DAV Veteran of the Year.

Samantha served ten years in the U.S. Army as a signals intelligence analyst and Cultural Support Team leader attached to Joint Special Operations Command in Afghanistan. She shares the hidden emotional cost of high-level military service and what happened when the identity, discipline and survival mechanisms that helped her succeed in uniform followed her into civilian life.

Joe and Samantha have an honest conversation about combat trauma, PTSD, dissociation, addiction, alcohol use, motherhood and the pressure Veterans feel to appear strong even when they are struggling internally. Samantha explains how trauma can remain stored in the body, why destructive coping mechanisms often develop after military service and what it means to finally reconnect with the parts of yourself you were trained to suppress.

They also explore Samantha’s experiences with psychedelic-assisted therapy, Veteran mental health treatment, creative healing, writing and painting. She discusses how art helped her process experiences that were difficult to express through traditional conversation and how creativity can become a powerful tool for trauma recovery, sobriety and personal transformation.

This episode is for Veterans, military spouses and families, trauma survivors and anyone who has ever questioned who they are when the mission ends.

Connect with Samantha here

Topics discussed include:

Army Veteran mental health, women Veterans, PTSD recovery, combat trauma, military sexual trauma, dissociation, Veteran addiction, alcohol and trauma, sobriety, psychedelic therapy for Veterans, creative healing, post-traumatic growth, motherhood after military service, JSOC, Cultural Support Teams, Afghanistan Veterans, identity after the military and healing through writing and art.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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What happens when a combat Veteran turns the trauma of war into music instead of allowing it to destroy him?

In this episode of This Sober Vet Podcast, Army Airborne Infantry Veteran Sean Martin, vocalist, guitarist and creative force behind The Quarantined, shares his journey from serving in Iraq to building a powerful music career rooted in truth, trauma and Veteran mental health.

Sean opens up about the lasting effects of military service, PTSD, identity, anger and the difficult transition from combat to civilian life. He explains how songwriting and music gave him a healthy outlet for experiences that were difficult to discuss—and how creative expression can help Veterans process pain they may otherwise attempt to silence with alcohol or other destructive behaviors.

Joe Yurick and Dr. T also explore why so many Veterans struggle to communicate what they are carrying, the connection between trauma and substance use, and the importance of finding purpose, community and healthier ways to cope after leaving the military.

This conversation is for Veterans, military families, musicians and anyone searching for honest discussions about PTSD, sobriety, alcohol recovery, mental health and healing after war.

In this episode:

• Sean Martin’s experience as an Army Airborne Infantry Veteran
• Deploying to Iraq and returning home from combat
• PTSD, trauma and the loss of military identity
• Why Veterans often use alcohol to suppress difficult emotions
• Music and songwriting as outlets for pain
• The story and mission behind The Quarantined
• Veteran mental health awareness and advocacy
• Finding purpose and rebuilding after military service

Listen, follow and share This Sober Vet Podcast as we work to normalize sobriety and honest conversations about alcohol within the Veteran community.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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Most Veterans become experts at saying, “I’m fine,” even when alcohol, anxiety, depression, and unresolved pain are quietly taking control.

In this powerful episode of This Sober Vet, Air Force combat Veteran John Moser shares his honest journey through alcoholism, addiction, mental health struggles, suicidal ideation, and the difficult process of rebuilding his life through recovery, connection, and service.

John opens up about the battles that continued after military service, the consequences of using alcohol to cope, and the moments that forced him to confront what was happening beneath the surface. He also discusses why Veterans often struggle to ask for help—and how honest conversations with people who understand military culture can become a lifeline.

Today, John has transformed his pain into purpose through his work with SAVE22 Veterans, where he advocates for Veterans facing addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Through Veteran outreach, motorsports, and authentic conversations, he helps create spaces where struggling Veterans can stop pretending they are okay and begin moving toward recovery.

Joe and John explore the importance of brotherhood, vulnerability, personal accountability, and finding a new mission after addiction.

In this episode:

• Life after military service
• Alcoholism and addiction recovery
• Depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation
• Why Veterans hide emotional pain
• The importance of peer support and honest conversation
• Finding purpose through SAVE22 Veterans
• Turning personal struggles into service for others

Recovery does not require you to forget where you have been. It gives you the opportunity to use your story to help someone else find their way home.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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Can someone who feels completely broken build a life filled with peace, purpose, and hope?

In this inspiring episode of This Sober Vet, Navy Veteran Barry shares his remarkable journey from childhood trauma, addiction, and despair to lasting sobriety, faith, and a renewed mission of serving fellow Veterans.

Barry reflects on how his early experiences with alcohol, family history, and personal struggles shaped his addiction. He also shares the extraordinary moments that changed everything—including a life-changing encounter with a police officer that became a turning point in his recovery.

Today, Barry is dedicated to helping other Veterans find healing through faith, community, and the vision of Second Mission Veteran Sober House, providing support and hope for those rebuilding their lives after addiction.

The conversation also explores Barry's emotional journey of uncovering his family's military legacy and how reconnecting with that history strengthened his commitment to service.

Whether you're an active-duty service member, Veteran, first responder, family member, or someone struggling with addiction, Barry's story is proof that recovery can transform even the darkest chapters into a life of meaning and purpose.

In this episode:

• Life as a Navy Veteran
• Addiction and recovery
• Faith as a foundation for sobriety
• Family history and military legacy
• Second Mission Veteran Sober House
• Serving other Veterans after recovery
• Finding peace after trauma

Recovery isn't about erasing your past—it's about allowing it to become the foundation for helping someone else find hope.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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What if your greatest strength wasn't found in Special Forces training—but in the decision to change your life?

In this inspiring episode of This Sober Vet, retired Army Green Beret Chris McPhee shares his remarkable journey from a difficult upbringing and street life to earning the Green Beret, overcoming addiction, and building a life centered on leadership, creativity, and service.

Chris reflects on the mental challenges of Special Forces selection, the mindset that helped him overcome adversity, and the lessons he learned while choosing sobriety. He explains why lasting transformation begins with changing how you think, surrounding yourself with the right people, and committing to growth every single day.

The conversation also explores Chris's work as an author, filmmaker, and storyteller, using media to preserve history, inspire others, and create meaningful conversations about resilience and service.

Whether you're an active-duty service member, Veteran, first responder, leader, or someone searching for freedom from addiction, Chris's story demonstrates that your past does not determine your future—your choices do.

In this episode:

• Life as an Army Green Beret
• Special Forces selection and resilience
• Addiction and sobriety
• Leadership through adversity
• The power of mindset
• Storytelling, documentaries, and giving back
• Building purpose after military service

The strongest transformation isn't becoming someone else—it's becoming the person you were always capable of being.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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What happens when the stress of combat is followed by the pressures of a career in law enforcement?

In this powerful episode of This Sober Vet, Marine Veteran and former police officer Jon Kline shares his deeply personal journey through combat deployments, the challenges of serving in law enforcement, PTSD, alcohol addiction, and ultimately finding lasting sobriety and renewed purpose.

Jon reflects on the military drinking culture, the emotional weight carried long after deployment, and the moments that finally convinced him to seek a different path. He discusses the support of his wife, the importance of faith and brotherhood, and how innovative treatments, including ketamine-assisted therapy under medical supervision, became part of his healing journey.

Together, Joe, Dr. T, and Jon explore the importance of vulnerability, community, and asking for help before the burden becomes too heavy to carry alone.

Whether you're an active-duty service member, Veteran, first responder, family member, or someone struggling with trauma or addiction, Jon's story is a reminder that recovery is possible and that hope often begins with one honest conversation.

In this episode:

• Life as a Marine Veteran
• Combat deployments
• Transitioning to law enforcement
• PTSD and alcohol recovery
• Faith, family, and brotherhood
• Ketamine-assisted treatment under medical supervision
• Building a meaningful life after addiction

Healing doesn't mean forgetting the past—it means refusing to let it control your future.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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What if the toughest fight of your life happened outside the boxing ring?

In this unforgettable episode of This Sober Vet, Marine Veteran, Olympic boxing champion, and mental health advocate Stephanie Simon shares her extraordinary journey through trauma, alcohol addiction, and recovery—and how sobriety gave her the clarity to reclaim her life and purpose.

Stephanie reflects on breaking barriers as one of the first women to serve in Marine Corps combat arms, the lasting impact of trauma and sexual assault, and the role alcohol played as she tried to cope with emotional pain. She also explains how choosing sobriety became the turning point that allowed her to pursue excellence in boxing, strengthen her mental resilience, and inspire others through her story.

This conversation explores what real courage looks like—not perfection, but the willingness to confront pain, ask for help, and continue moving forward.

Whether you're an active-duty service member, Veteran, athlete, first responder, family member, or someone searching for hope after addiction or trauma, Stephanie's story proves that healing is possible and that your future is never defined by your past.

In this episode:

• Life as a Marine Veteran
• Breaking barriers in combat arms
• Alcohol addiction and recovery
• Trauma and mental health
• Olympic boxing and resilience
• Rebuilding confidence through sobriety
• Living with purpose after adversity

The strongest fighters aren't the ones who never fall—they're the ones who choose to get back up with honesty, courage, and hope.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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Can one decision change the direction of your entire life?

In this powerful episode of This Sober Vet, Marine Veteran Andrew Farrer shares his remarkable journey from combat deployments in Fallujah and Ramadi, through PTSD and alcohol addiction, to more than eight years of lasting sobriety.

Andrew speaks candidly about the emotional toll of combat, how alcohol became a way to cope with trauma, and the second DUI that forced him to confront the path he was on. Rather than allowing shame to define his future, he embraced recovery through faith, community, and programs like Save a Warrior, ultimately rebuilding his life with purpose and service.

Today, Andrew continues to encourage other Veterans by proving that recovery isn't just about quitting alcohol—it's about becoming the person you were meant to be.

Whether you're an active-duty service member, Veteran, first responder, family member, or someone struggling with addiction, Andrew's story offers hope, practical insight, and proof that lasting transformation is possible.

In this episode:

• Combat deployments to Fallujah and Ramadi
• PTSD and military trauma
• Alcohol addiction and recovery
• The turning point after a second DUI
• Faith and healing
• Save a Warrior
• Eight years of sobriety and service

The most important battle you'll ever fight may be the one that leads you back to yourself.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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What can four years of sobriety truly change?

In this deeply personal bonus episode of This Sober Vet, host Joe Yurick sits down with his wife, Katie, to celebrate four years of sobriety and reflect on the journey that transformed not only Joe's life—but their marriage, family, and future.

Together, they share the difficult moments that led to change, including the loving ultimatum that became a turning point, the challenges of rebuilding trust, and the daily decisions that continue to strengthen their relationship. Joe and Katie also discuss the role of faith, therapy, community, accountability, and honest communication in sustaining long-term recovery.

This conversation offers a rare look at addiction and healing from both perspectives—the person who struggled with alcohol and the spouse who stood beside him through the hardest seasons.

Whether you're a Veteran, active-duty service member, first responder, spouse, family member, or someone beginning your own recovery journey, this episode is a reminder that lasting change is possible and that every sober day is worth celebrating.

In this episode:

• Celebrating four years of sobriety
• Marriage after alcohol addiction
• Rebuilding trust after addiction
• The importance of accountability and community
• Faith and family in recovery
• Hope for couples navigating addiction together

Sobriety doesn't just change one life—it has the power to restore an entire family.

Thank you for celebrating this milestone with us. Your support continues to help us normalize sobriety with Veterans around the world.

Our mission is simple: Normalize sobriety with Veterans.

Learn more at www.thissobervet.com

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