In this episode of the “1 Mile 1 Veteran” podcast, former Army Infantry Squad Leader John Davis joins the show to discuss various topics related to veterans’ well-being and post-military life. John shares his personal experiences and insights on the therapeutic benefits of reading and writing, advocating for veterans’ rights, and the challenges faced by student veterans transitioning into college. He also delves into the importance of travel as a form of therapy for veterans, particularly his own experience of living abroad in the Dominican Republic. John highlights the significance of education for veterans, the struggles they face with mental health, and the resources available to them. Additionally, he discusses his books, including “Combat to College” and “#FreedomChallenge,” which provide guidance and support for student veterans. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from John Davis as he shares his journey and passion for helping veterans rediscover their post-military identity.
Visit John’s website to connect with him and purchase his books.
Key Takeaways
- Writing can be a form of therapy for veterans, helping them process their experiences and struggles with PTSD.
- Living abroad can provide a healthier and less toxic environment for veterans, with access to natural and unprocessed food and mental health resources.
- Travel allows veterans to recreate their post-military identity and have new experiences.
- Veterans should take responsibility for their own mental health and craft individualized therapy plans.
- Building community and finding purpose after military service is crucial for veterans’ well-being and success in civilian life.
Guest
John H. Davis
Author, AdvocateJohn is a writer and advocate for veterans. He has served multiple combat tours with the 101st Airborne Division and holds a Masters in Education from Harvard. His ethos/philosophy is centered around advocating for veterans and helping them recreate their post-military identity.