988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Today, I sit down with Scott DeLuzio, a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and host of the Drive On Podcast, for the third installment of our series on National Suicide Prevention and Awareness week. In this episode, we turn the spotlight onto the harsh reality of suicide among active duty military members and veterans—a crisis that continues to claim lives long after the battlefield. Mr. DeLuzio shares his deeply personal story, including the loss of his younger brother during their Afghanistan deployment and the emotional toll that followed.
We explore the silent battle many service members face once they return home—from isolation and toxic leadership to loss of purpose and the difficulty transitioning into civilian life. Mr. DeLuzio opens up about his own struggles with PTSD and why he started Drive On to spotlight solutions that go beyond traditional therapy—like equestrian programs, surf therapy, and even gaming communities. We talk about why alternative forms of healing can work better for men shaped by pride, pain, and performance-based cultures, especially in the military.
Together, we examine how better leadership, transparency, and connection can save lives. I reflect on my own experience aboard a ship that suffered record-breaking suicide rates, and we both agree: good leadership doesn’t ignore mental health—it leans in. We discuss the dangers of stigma around seeking help, the vital role of third-party resources outside the chain of command, and why your role in the mission—no matter how "small"—matters more than you think. Whether you're in uniform or long since separated, this episode is a powerful reminder that the war doesn't always end overseas—and neither does your worth.
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*Couple O' Nukes LLC and Mr. Whiskey are not licensed medical entities, nor do they take responsibility for any advice or information put forth by guests. Take all advice at your own risk.
