Warriors Unmasked Chuck Thuss and Clint Malarchuk

In this heartfelt episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss welcomes Don Young, a former pharmaceutical marketing executive whose life transformation is a profound tale of rediscovery and spiritual awakening. Don shares his journey from achieving material success and seemingly living the American dream to facing an emptiness that wealth and status could not fill. His story is a vivid illustration of the profound impact that a shift in values from materialism to spirituality can have on personal well-being and happiness.
Don's candid discussion about his struggles with identity, the pressures of corporate life, and his subsequent spiritual awakening offers listeners a window into the transformative power of faith and the quest for authenticity. He talks about his upcoming memoir, "Finding God in Vegas," his website where he shares daily devotions and personal insights, and how these platforms have become a conduit for expressing his newfound purpose.
Listeners will find inspiration in Don's narrative, from his challenging moments to his ultimate realization of what truly matters—love, authenticity, and spiritual fulfillment. This episode is not just Don's story; it's a call to anyone feeling lost or disconnected from their true selves to reconsider what brings genuine contentment and joy to their lives.
Join Chuck and Don as they explore a journey from the superficial highs of success to the deeper, more sustaining joys of spiritual and emotional rebirth. For those moved by Don's story and interested in learning more about his writings or seeking guidance on embracing their own spiritual journeys, visit his website and follow his contributions to personal and spiritual growth.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the enduring human capacity for change and the infinite possibilities that open up when we align our lives with our deepest values and beliefs. Hit play now!



GUEST LINKS:
https://donaldharoldyoung.com donaldharoldyoung.com | Substack: https://donaldharoldyoungcom.substack.com LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact
 
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:03 - Introduction and welcome to Don Young, former pharmaceutical marketing executive turned spiritual mentor. 3:08 - Don discusses his successful yet unfulfilling career in pharmaceutical marketing and the luxurious yet empty lifestyle it afforded. 7:04 - Exploring the deep void and unhappiness behind the facade of success and the high cost of living the "American Dream." 10:17 - Don shares the turning point at age 55, leading to his profound spiritual awakening and the dramatic shift in his life’s focus. 18:20 - Discussion on the impact of societal expectations on personal identity and the struggle with coming out as gay in a conservative environment.  22:34 - How a career loss at 52 and personal losses transformed Don’s perspective on life, leading to rejection of materialism. 27:49 - Don describes the significant moments of realization during the COVID-19 pandemic and reassessing his life’s work in pharma marketing. 34:16 - The role of Johnny Cash’s music in catalyzing Don’s spiritual reawakening and embracing a life centered on love and authenticity. 37:49 - Insights into the daily practices that nurture self-love, connection with others, and spiritual fulfillment. 42:14 - Don reflects on how volunteering and writing helped him reconnect with his true self and the community. 47:48 - Closing thoughts on living a love-centered life free from fear and filled with gratitude and joy. 51:13 - Don answers questions on living authentically and the continuous journey towards self-discovery and creating love in the world.  

In this powerful episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss sits down with Nina Sossamon-Pogue, a former USA gymnast, Emmy-winning journalist, and a beacon of resilience and empowerment. Nina shares her extraordinary journey from leaving home at 13 to train for gymnastics with dreams of the Olympics, to overcoming a career-ending injury and reshaping her life multiple times across different high-impact roles. 
Nina delves into the highs and lows of her life, emphasizing the strength and lessons learned through each setback. From the glamour of media attention to the personal battles behind the scenes, she uncovers the raw truths about resilience, the importance of mental health, and the power of reinvention. Nina's story is a testament to the fact that while life can throw the most challenging curveballs, it's how we respond that defines our path forward.
Listeners will gain insights into Nina's approach to overcoming adversity, including her framework for resilience which has helped many navigate their toughest times. Her discussion on the importance of self-talk, the power of a supportive community, and the ability to rewrite one's narrative provides valuable tools for anyone looking to foster resilience in their own lives.
For those moved by Nina's journey and looking to learn more about transforming life's challenges into stepping stones for success, this episode is a must-listen. Nina's life lessons are not just stories but powerful testimonies to the strength every individual holds within. By the end of this conversation, listeners will feel more equipped to face their own challenges with a renewed sense of hope and empowerment.
To explore deeper into Nina Sossamon-Pogue's work, check out her books and follow her continued journey in reshaping how we think about adversity and success. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or looking to inspire resilience in others, Nina's insights offer a roadmap to a more fulfilling and resilient life. Follow the links below to learn more! 


GUEST LINKS:
Website: https://www.ninasossamonpogue.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninasossamonpogue Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NinaTheAuthor Instagram: Instagram (@nina_sp.eaks)  
LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:02 - Introduction and welcome to Nina Sossamon-Pogue, former USA gymnast and resilience leader. 3:12 - Nina shares her early start in gymnastics and training for the Olympics. 5:02 - Discussing the transition from gymnastics to an Emmy-winning journalism career. 10:21 - Nina’s experience with injury and identity loss, and the start of her corporate journey. 16:46 - Insights into overcoming adversity and the importance of mental health. 22:33 - Nina talks about the role of resilience in personal and professional life. 27:49 - Discussion on the impact of public failures and personal recovery. 34:16 - Exploring the power of positive self-talk and rebuilding after setbacks. 37:49 - Nina’s approach to helping others through her books and speaking engagements. 42:14 - Closing thoughts on resilience, mental health, and personal growth. 47:48 - Nina reflects on the collective impact of her career and personal challenges. 51:13 - Q&A: Nina answers listener questions about resilience strategies and life lessons.

In this powerful episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss sits with Ryan Graves, an author, psychedelic integration coach, and a fervent advocate for the healing powers of sacred plant medicines. Ryan's personal battle with alcohol addiction and his profound journey towards healing and purpose through the use of psychedelics like Ayahuasca and Iboga, form the core of our discussion.
Ryan's approach to healing is deeply rooted in his personal experiences with trauma and recovery, using his knowledge to assist others on similar paths. Having faced significant personal loss and battles with addiction, he shares insights into the transformative impact of plant medicines in his life. His story is not just about overcoming, but about transforming pain into a catalyst for spiritual and personal growth.
Listeners will get an intimate look into Ryan's transformative experiences that led him from the depths of despair to a life enriched with purpose and healing. He also touches on the broader implications of trauma, from childhood experiences to the losses that have shaped him. Ryan emphasizes the importance of facing our inner pain, advocating for the use of psychedelics as tools for deep psychological healing and personal insight.
For anyone moved by Ryan’s journey or interested in the intersection of psychedelics and mental health, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not only a tale of personal redemption but a call to consider alternative paths to healing that challenge conventional medical approaches.
Ryan’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound healing that can occur when we open ourselves to new methods of healing and self-discovery. To delve deeper into Ryan Graves' journey and learn about his books "Miraculous" and "The Mushroom Chronicles," or to explore the world of psychedelic healing further, be sure to follow the links below!



GUEST LINKS:
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-graves-1942722b0 Facebook: Ryan Graves https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1000716468230 Instagram (@journeyguyryan) Books: https://journeyguyryan.com/books
 
LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact
 
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:02 - Introduction to Ryan Graves, author and psychedelic integration coach. 2:45 - Ryan's mission to help clients release trauma through plant medicine. 4:02 - Beginning of Ryan's healing journey, starting with overcoming alcohol addiction. 16:46 - Discussion on Ryan’s experiences with psychedelics and their role in his recovery. 22:10 - Ryan’s first encounter with ayahuasca and its transformative impact. 30:19 - Exploring the misconceptions around psychedelics and their legal aspects. 33:54 - The potential of psychedelics in healing and personal growth. 38:11 - Ryan discusses his books "Miraculous" and "The Mushroom Chronicles"  

In this moving episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss is joined by Steve Wilson, a courageous survivor, author, and mental health advocate, who shares his lifelong battle with bipolar disorder. At the tender age of nine, a traumatic event altered Steve’s life, leading to decades of struggle with deep depression and bipolar disorder. Despite these challenges, Steve has not only managed his condition with effective treatment since 2000 but has also used his experience to help others through his book, "Teetering On A Tightrope: My Bipolar Journey," and by facilitating mental health support groups.
Steve's story is not just about personal triumph; it's a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by those with mental health issues, especially in navigating the healthcare system. His advocacy shines a light on the deficiencies within government programs and the healthcare insurance industry, emphasizing the need for more supportive policies and accessible care for everyone.
Listeners will be taken on a journey from heartbreak to hope, as Steve discusses how early life trauma can lead to lifelong mental health challenges. He underscores the importance of support systems, appropriate medical interventions, and community resources that have been instrumental in his recovery and stability.
This episode is a call to action for better understanding and support for mental health in our communities. It’s an invitation to listen, learn, and engage with mental health discussions openly and supportively. Steve’s resilience and dedication to helping others provide hope and inspiration to all who hear his story, making this a must-listen episode for anyone touched by mental health issues or involved in mental health advocacy.
For those inspired by Steve’s journey and looking to understand more about bipolar disorder, or anyone looking to contribute to improving mental health care, Steve's insights and experiences are invaluable. Tune into this profound episode of Warriors Unmasked to hear more about how Steve Wilson has turned his struggles into a beacon of hope for others.




GUEST LINKS:
Website: https://authorstevewwilson.com Instagram: Instagram (@stevewilson4990) Guestio profile: Guestio.com  
 
LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:55 Introduction to Steve Wilson, author and bipolar disorder conqueror. 3:25 Steve recounts the childhood trauma that triggered his lifelong mental health battle. 4:07 Diagnosis journey: From misdiagnosis to finding the right treatment. 7:00 The impact of childhood trauma on mental health and subsequent depression episodes. 10:19 Breakthrough with new medication in 2000 and its life-changing effects. 14:00 The ongoing struggle with mental health and the effectiveness of current medication. 16:28 Steve discusses the common misconceptions about bipolar disorder and its varieties. 20:27 The daily management of bipolar disorder and strategies that help maintain stability. 23:44 Steve’s advocacy work: Facilitating support groups and helping others. 27:53 Critique of healthcare and insurance systems' failures in supporting mental health. 32:10 Importance of affordable mental health care and the obstacles faced by many. 35:00 Steve's personal insights into living with bipolar disorder and managing its challenges. 38:27 Encouragement for listeners dealing with mental health issues: You're not alone.  

In this impactful episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss welcomes Dr. Karen Doll, a psychologist and coach who champions mental health in the workplace and personal well-being. Dr. Doll, who chairs the Harvard University Flourishing at Work Network and is an acclaimed author, dives deep into her philosophy of integrating personal and professional development to enhance overall mental health.
Dr. Doll's approach, deeply rooted in creating environments where individuals can thrive, highlights the significant benefits to both personal satisfaction and business success. Her discussion ranges from the vital need to address mental health openly in corporate settings to practical strategies for individuals to manage stress and foster psychological fitness.
Listeners will gain from Dr. Doll's expertise on navigating the challenges of maintaining mental health in high-pressure environments and her unique insights into building resilience through holistic self-care. This conversation is not just about identifying problems but actively pursuing solutions that encourage a healthier, more balanced life.
For those inspired by Dr. Doll's dedication to improving workplace well-being and interested in deeper insights, her book, "Building Psychological Fitness," is a resource-rich guide that empowers individuals to achieve personal growth and greater efficacy in their professional lives.
This episode of Warriors Unmasked is a call to action for everyone from corporate leaders to everyday professionals to prioritize mental health just as they would physical health, recognizing that the strength of a business lies in the well-being of its people.
Discover more about Dr. Karen Doll’s transformative work and her practical approaches to psychological wellness by following the links provided below, and join us in advancing a more mindful, compassionate approach to both personal and professional life.



GUEST LINKS:
Book: https://tinyurl.com/23z8tcne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karendecesaredoll/ LinkedIn Learning course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/improving-your-mental-health-at-work Website: drkarendoll.com  
LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:34 Introduction to Dr. Karen Doll and the importance of mental health in the workplace. 3:32: Discussing the intersection of personal well-being and professional development. 7:03: The impact of 2020 on blending personal and work life. 10:12: Benefits of addressing mental health openly in corporate settings. 15:01: Shared responsibilities in workplace mental health. 19:30: Addressing chronic stress and burnout with proactive strategies. 23:01: Changing the narrative around mental health and the importance of self-care. 28:00: Empowering individuals to prioritize their mental health. 31:45: The role of leadership in fostering a healthy work environment. 35:00: Dr. Karen’s personal strategies for maintaining mental health. 39:00: Encouraging open discussions about mental health challenges. 42:00: Dr. Karen shares insights from her book on psychological fitness.  

In this episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss is joined by Dan Zia Joseph, a former U.S. Army Combat Engineer turned author and mental health advocate. Dan shares his transition from the military to becoming a voice in mental health, resilience, and leadership through his platform, CombatPsych.com, and his influential writings.
Dan’s military background deeply informs his approach, bringing a unique perspective to the challenges of psychological wellness in high-stress environments. His book, "Backpack to Rucksack: Insight Into Leadership and Resilience By Military Experts," is based on his experiences and the lessons he learned about the importance of mental health and community support, especially following a transformative event involving a soldier’s suicide attempt in his platoon.
Listeners will find Dan’s discussions on leadership, the psychological impact of military service, and his own strategies for personal well-being to be both enlightening and inspiring. His story is not just about overcoming adversity but also about how proactive measures in mental health can significantly improve leadership and resilience.
For those interested in exploring deeper into Dan’s work or seeking guidance on enhancing mental health and leadership skills, visit CombatPsych.com. Here you can access Dan's writings and resources designed to support both veterans and civilians alike in their journeys toward mental wellness and effective leadership.
This episode of Warriors Unmasked is a compelling dive into the power of resilience, the importance of mental health awareness, and the transformative influence of strong, empathetic leadership. Whether you're a veteran, a leader in your community, or someone interested in personal development, Dan’s insights offer valuable lessons in perseverance, understanding, and growth.


GUEST LINKS:
Backpack to Rucksack: Insight Into Leadership & Resilience By Military Experts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRQT4ZGC https://combatpsych.com  
LINKS:
www.thecompassionateconnection.com www.warriorsunmasked.com  Join Chuck’s Text Community: 251-418-7966 Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe To Our YouTube My Community Contact  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:30 Introduction to Dan Zia Joseph and his transition from military to mental health advocacy.  3:09 Dan reflects on his service and the importance of acknowledging the contributions of fellow soldiers. 5:48 Exploring the shared experiences and transitions of veterans and athletes. 7:52 The impact of military life on mental health and the challenges of adjustment. 10:18 Insights into the high operational tempo and its psychological effects on soldiers. 14:05 Discussing the evolving conversation around mental health in the military. 17:25 The importance of vulnerability in achieving optimal life outcomes. 20:58 The role of new generations in reshaping perceptions of mental health in the military. 23:32 Dan's transformative event leading to a focus on mental health and resilience. 26:00 Insights from Dan's book, "Backpack to Rucksack," on leadership and resilience. 28:53 Dan's daily practices for maintaining mental health and personal growth. 33:19 Dan emphasizes the simplicity and power of gratitude in everyday life.