Episode 202: Tom Spooner 82nd Airborne, Green Beret, Delta Force

In this conversation, Tom Spooner shares his remarkable journey from a soldier in combat to a voice for healing among veterans. He discusses his early life, the challenges he faced growing up, and how his military career shaped him. Spooner opens up about his struggles with alcoholism, the turning point of getting sober, and the importance of therapy in his emotional healing. He also delves into the complexities of moral grief and the cost of war, emphasizing the need for open discussions about mental health in the military. In this conversation, Tom Spooner shares his journey from military service to founding Warrior's Heart, a rehabilitation center for veterans and first responders. He reflects on the emotional toll of combat, the importance of mental health, and the unique approach of Warrior's Heart in healing warriors through peer support and nature. Tom emphasizes the significance of community, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the fulfillment he finds in helping others recover from trauma.

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00:00 Introduction to Tom Spooner's Journey

01:55 Early Life and Military Aspirations

05:12 The Impact of Family and Environment

08:01 Military Career Beginnings and Challenges

11:03 Experiences in Combat and Personal Growth

13:57 Reflections on War and Self-Identity

16:55 Transitioning to Special Forces

20:01 The Role of Self-Worth in Military Success

23:06 Desert Storm: First Combat Experience

25:58 Memorable Moments from the Gulf War

28:48 Personal Struggles and Alcoholism

31:55 The Decision to Get Sober and Its Impact

36:16 Struggles with Alcohol and Military Life

38:53 Turning Point: Seeking Help and AA

41:23 The Journey of Sobriety and Self-Discovery

46:55 Admitting Vulnerability and Emotions

55:37 Therapy and Processing Trauma

01:00:28 Moral Grief and the Cost of War

01:14:41 The Weight of Choices in Combat

01:17:16 The Journey to Special Forces

01:21:28 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Careers

01:26:22 Stepping into the Shadow of Giants

01:30:05 First Combat Experience: A New Reality

01:36:19 Comparing Combat Experiences: Iraq vs. Afghanistan

01:38:07 Understanding the Bigger Picture of War

01:42:43 The Reality of Being a Number in the Military

01:48:01 Maintaining Humanity in the Face of Adversity

01:51:23 Memorable Moments in Delta Force Training

01:52:23 Navigating Personal Challenges During Training

01:56:36 The Impact of Military Service on Family Life

01:59:27 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

02:04:32 The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

02:08:21 Warrior's Heart: A Unique Approach to Recovery

02:15:29 Transformative Experiences at Warrior's Heart

02:21:22 The Future of Warrior's Heart and Community Support

02:27:47 NOMADIC COMMERCIAL 2.mp4

INTRO and OUTRO music written,performed, and provided by the band Rattle Root. Check them out below.