#208 Ben Davis - Writer & Navy SEAL (Ret.)
Watch the episode here
Listen to the podcast here
Ben Davis - Executive Director of the Veteran’s Outdoor Advocacy Group (VOAG), where he leads efforts to connect veterans with the healing power of outdoor recreation. A former Navy SEAL, Ben served for nine years, completing three deployments before earning his MBA from the College of William and Mary. After transitioning from military service, he became deeply involved in climbing and mountaineering, witnessing firsthand the profound benefits of outdoor therapy for veterans. Now based in Golden, CO, Ben is a passionate advocate for VOAG’s mission and dedicated to helping veterans discover the transformative power of nature. In addition to his work with VOAG, Ben authors The TRANSITION, a Substack newsletter focused on veteran mental health and the challenges of life after the Global War on Terror. Tune in as Ben Davis joins Bobby Marshall in the studio to explore topics such as outdoor therapy, mental health, the veteran transition, hunting, and the Colorado outdoor lifestyle. Be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media for updates on upcoming episodes, events, and more.
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In the latest episode of The Mountain Side Podcast, host Bobby Marshall sits down with an extraordinary guest, Ben Davis. Ben, a former United States Navy SEAL, has journeyed through a life of intense experiences and now focuses on advocating for veteran health through outdoor therapy. During their engaging conversation, Ben and Brian touch upon various topics, including the importance of transitioning from military life, the challenges veterans face, and the relevance of mental health in today's society. This blog post aims to highlight the key takeaways from their discussion and explore the vital lessons we can all learn from transitions in life.
Ben's Journey: From SEAL to Advocate The podcast kicks off with Ben Davis talking about his life after retiring from the SEAL teams. He shares his personal transition from military service to becoming an advocate for alternative veteran health. Through his involvement with organizations like VOAG, Ben is helping to shape the way veterans access outdoor therapy. His passion for the well-being of veterans is evident, and his dedication to this cause is inspiring.
The Struggle with Transition A significant portion of the conversation centers around transitions—particularly, the struggles many veterans face when re-entering civilian life. Ben candidly discusses the difficulties he encountered and how they aren't necessarily unique to veterans. Many of us, at some point, grapple with changes in identity, finding new purposes, and adjusting to different life phases. What stood out in their discussion was the realization that the veteran community can sometimes be perceived as broken. Both Ben and Bobby agree that highlighting success stories can provide a more balanced view, demonstrating that veterans are capable of achieving greatness in their post-military lives.
Finding Purpose and Mental Health Ben raises an interesting point about mental health awareness. While it's important to acknowledge emotions and mental well-being, there's a fine line between healthy introspection and overanalyzing our feelings to the point of indulging in them unnecessarily. The conversation explores whether today's mental health movement is creating a culture of perpetual healing, questioning if sometimes we're just experiencing the normal spectrum of human emotions.
Outdoor Therapy as a Tool for Healing The discussion also delves into the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activities. Ben advocates for using the natural environment as a means to heal and process complex emotions. He shares his belief that outdoor therapy can be a transformative experience, providing veterans (and civilians alike) a chance to reconnect with themselves and nature. Through initiatives with VOAG, Ben is working to increase accessibility to these resources, striving to make them a viable option for veteran healthcare.
Building A Supportive Community The episode wraps up with a reflection on the importance of building a supportive community. Whether through podcasts, writing, or advocacy, both Ben and Bobby acknowledge the power of telling authentic stories and engaging in genuine conversations. They emphasize that everyone has a unique path and highlight the importance of supporting one another through various life transitions. Ben’s story reminds us that transitions, while challenging, can lead to profound personal growth. His dedication to serving others through innovative health solutions is an uplifting example of turning personal experiences into a force for good. As listeners, we are encouraged to embrace our transitions, seek purposeful connections, and continue learning from each other—no matter where our roads may lead us.
To learn more about Ben Davis, his work, and the Mountain Side Podcast, be sure to check out the full episode and follow the links provided in the show notes or at the bottom of this page. Thanks for reading, listening & watching The Mountain Side! 🇺🇸