In this 1 Mile 1 Veteran podcast episode, I talk to Phil Palmer, the President and Executive Director of WarriorWOD. As a Marine Corps veteran, Phil has dedicated his life to helping fellow veterans recover from invisible wounds. Through WarriorWOD, he prioritizes exercise and nutrition as prescriptions for post-traumatic stress and other challenges. Phil shares his journey, growing up in Charleston, South Carolina, and the impactful example set by his father and grandfather. Get ready to be inspired by Phil’s dedication and the incredible impact he’s making in the veteran community.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize exercise and nutrition as part of the recovery process for veterans with invisible wounds.
- Seek out support systems and communities that understand and empathize with your military experiences.
- Consider the impact of mentors and role models on your career decisions and growth.
- Don’t be afraid to explore opportunities outside of the military and utilize your leadership skills in different fields.
- Reach out for help and support when struggling with mental health issues, and don’t suffer in silence.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction
[06:06] Joining the Marine Corps.
[13:40] Marine officer career progression.
[19:33] The power of camaraderie.
[23:16] Finding a fitness community.
[31:23] Invisible wounds and mental health.
[39:01] Recovery through exercise and nutrition.
[43:31] Community and mentorship.
Synopsis
This conversation with Marine Corps veteran Phil Palmer emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many individuals become consumed by their own lives, whether work or family and often overlook the significance of seeking companionship beyond their immediate surroundings. And while technology allows for accessible communication and connection with others, it is highlighted that face-to-face interaction is necessary for overall well-being.
Here, Phil shares his experience recovering from invisible wounds through fitness, nutrition, and a supportive community. This recovery led him to found WarriorWOD, a non-profit focusing on fitness and nutrition and emphasizing community building and relational health. The physical health, camaraderie, and support he received from his fellow group members played a significant role in his recovery and mental well-being. Phil says, “Within a year of that, being a part of that community, I was completely off antidepressants.”
Furthermore, we discuss the concept of “battle buddies,” which refers to having a trusted friend or mentor who provides support and accountability. These battle buddies are instrumental in achieving meaningful results and empowering veterans who have experienced trauma to recover. Sharing one’s life with someone and knowing they will provide support is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Danny shares, “You get comfortable enough with somebody that you can share your life as transparently as possible and know that you’re still going to have support from that individual.”
This conversation underscores the necessity of building a supportive community for a healthy lifestyle. It provides individuals with the necessary support, accountability, and companionship that can positively impact their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
In addition, Phil emphasizes the importance of reaching out and seeking help when facing struggles, encouraging listeners not to suffer in silence and to open up to someone about their challenges. “If you’re struggling, you’ve got an ear through me, and you’ve got someone that’s going to listen and just be there with you… Open up. Let somebody know. I mean, don’t suffer in silence.”
Phil knows that even one death or one person struggling is too many. There is no judgment, only empathy and love for anyone who needs help. Please get involved with programs and initiatives that promote physical and relational health, as these can be beneficial in overcoming struggles.
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Guest
Phil Palmer
President & Executive Director | WarriorWODPhil is a Marine Corps veteran who now serves as president and executive director of WarriorWOD, an organization dedicated to helping veterans recover from invisible wounds. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, nutrition, and camaraderie in recovery.