Shows
1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson082: Something you can't control featuring Josh Howard (Marine)We're back with new content. After a hiatus of nearly 18 months, we are continuing with programming. First to join us is Marine Veteran Josh Howard form Woodburned Warriors. He shares his perspective when his unit lost members to suicide and how he dealt with his own emotional struggles. 2018-05-0140 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson081: How can you trust that you matter? feat Corey Christman & Michael Le BuhnIt has been more than a year since we put out an episode, but this one is worth the wait. I was recently asked "how you have been able to trust people when they tell you that they love/appreciate you." Rather than responding with a quick, off-the-top response, I decided to think about it and have a conversation with someone else. I opened up the opportunity to my friends, and two wonderful gentlemen offered to join me. Corey Christman and Michael Le Buhn are both veterans that have been on this program before. The three of us each...2017-09-1527 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson080: "Standing on my Story" feat Timothy Jones, MST survivorTimothy Jones is a good friend of mine and has been on the podcast before. He was originally on 1, 2, Many in 2014 to tell his friend's story. In that episode, Tim breifly mentioned his own struggles but never admitted being suicidal. Since then, Tim has healed and accepted his past. Now he's ready to share that part of his story. Tim was raped by a Marine when he was serving in Japan. That event led to a self-destructive lifestyle and a couple suicide attempts. "I wanted to hurt. I needed to feel." Listen to...2016-07-1545 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson079: I've Been There and Now I'm Here (Momentary Reflections)To all my friends, family, fans, peers, comrades, acquaintances, enemies, strangers and people I simply don't like:
I'm here for you.
I'm not just here if you want to talk about your problems. I'm here if you need to dig deep. I'm here if you need to bleed it out while someone else is in the room to experience the pain with you.
We can talk about what you're going through. We can talk about my experiences.
You can ask the questions. Or you can let me ask them. Maybe we'll pull questions from the Internet. We can call a hotl...2016-03-3106 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson078: New research from National Center for Veterans Studies feat Dr. Craig Bryan (Air Force)Dr. Craig Bryan from the National Center for Veterans Studies at the University of Utah joins the podcast yet again.
Dr. Bryan was featured on the show at the beginning of the project to share his insight on veteran suicide, PTSD, and trauma related behavior. He's back to discuss what he and his peers have discovered through research in a recent publication.
Listen in as he explains what the study shows and how it can help treat veterans mental health.2016-03-2337 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson077: Suicide is the Last Thing I Want to do featuring Anthony PavelkoI came across Anthony Pavelko on Facebook. I saw him mention his son's suicide. When I asked him to join me on the podcast, I was honored that he accepted.
Anthony's story and feelings are powerful. He talks about what it takes to face guilt, depression, and regret.
Before Anthony and I started our conversation, his chaplain came on and told me how much this interview meant to Anthony. I'm truly humbled to be able to provide a platform for these stories and give an outlet for this community.
Please, let us know...2016-03-0224 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson076: Reach out for Your Lifelines feat Michael LeBuhn (Army)I met Michael LeBuhn in Orlando at the Student Veterans of American National Conference.
He attended my early morning session on suicide, and we both got along immediately. During the session, it was clear from his comments that he had experienced suicidal behavior himself. I offered him a chance to tell his story and he came through.
In this podcast you’ll hear about a book Michael is a part of. For more on that book, check out the website: http://www.heartofaveteran.com/
For those of you subscribed in iTunes: we changed the...2016-03-0139 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson075: Fighting Depression and Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail feat Zack Starr (Navy)Navy veteran Zack Starr hiked the Pacific Crest Trail to find himself and heal his emotional wounds.
Listen to his story about fighting depression, battling an injury, and recovering from it all.
2016-03-011h 061, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson074: I Want to be Proud of Myself featuring Alex Gutierrez (Marine)Alex Gutierre is a Marine Corps veteran that is currently battling emotinoal health issues. Alex was involved in a motorcycle accident that took the life of his passenger and put him in a month long coma.
Alex describes his life and emotional state following the accident and where it stands now. This story is unique to the program as Alex admits that this is a current issue for him and one he is trying to overcome.
Let us know what you think of this week’s story by tweeting us:
@One2ManyProject (Podcast)...2016-03-0131 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson073: You Must Disrupt the Silence (Momentary Reflections)I have experienced the deathly presence of silence too many times. For many people, including myself, peace and quiet is enjoyable. Unfortunately, when you’re experiencing emotional health issues, silence is like an assassin. Your head will struggle to make sense of the way you feel, and silence will step in to kill.
This should be considered in two ways.
The first applies to when you are silent during a time of need.
Many of the ad campaigns, memes, PSAs, and hashtags encourage you to reach out. Society wants you to speak up. Ri...2016-03-0106 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson072: Learning from Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1 featuring Ellen Goosenberg KentThis week’s story comes from Ellen Goosenberg Kent. Ellen is the Oscar winning director of Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1. If you have not seen this documentary, I highly recommend it. You can watch it on HBO or on Amazon here.
Ellen talks with Tim about the creation of the Oscar winning documentary Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1 and what she learned about the hotline services. This appropriately follows last week’s episode when Marine veteran Luis Tenezacamora shared his experience with calling a hotline.
Let us know what you think of this week’s story by twe...2016-03-0133 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson071: The suicide I’m trying hardest to prevent is my own (Momentary Reflections)Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Hashtags are made, inspiring pictures are shared, and hope is strong. On this day, we come together as a society and recognize that suicide is a serious issue.
On a day that my efforts are especially recognized, I still know the suicide I’m trying hardest to prevent is my own.
Much like an alcoholic, I still identify myself as someone with a problem. I still admit I’m at risk for suicidal behavior. I haven’t attempted suicide in nearly a decade. I haven’t felt the urge to end m...2016-03-0106 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson070: “It’s OK to be a bitch” featuring Luis Tenezacamora (Marine)Luis Tenezacamora is a Marine Corps veteran. I served with him briefly in Moscow.
A while back, I made a Facebook status asking for insight on calling a crisis hotline. Luis messaged me with highlights of his experience. He had good things to say, so I asked him if he’d come onto the podcast to talk about it. He obliged.
Along with his decision to call a hotline, Luis shares with us…:
His personal emotional health issues
Drinking problems
Seeking counseling
How his brother came to his aid
Why it’s OK to “be a bit...2016-03-0126 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson069: Don’t be a Passive Aggressive Activist in a Lawn Chair (Momentary Reflections)There’s a picture floating around the Internet of a gentleman sitting in a lawn chair.
This man, in his lawn chair, is holding up two signs. Each says, “23 American Veterans commit suicide every day. No One Cares. 1 lion gets killed and the country is in an uproar.”
Saying “no one cares” about any veterans issues – or any issues for that matter – is absurd and completely false. People use this erroneous exaggeration to emphasize their point, but it’s insulting.
“No one cares” is a slap in the face to the millions of people putting forth...2016-02-1705 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson068: The Law Enforcement Perspective of Responding to a Suicide CrisisThis week’s episode of 1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide features a Navy veteran that explains to us what it’s like to respond to a suicide crisis. The images he describes are very graphic and his thoughts on being a “burden” may be considered insensitive, but I think his perspective and experience are worth sharing.
As always:
RESPECT my guestsDo NOT call them out if they’ve chosen to be anonymousShare this with those you feel would benefitBe sure to take something from each episodeWhat do you think of this story? Join the conversation on Twitter:
@One...2016-02-1727 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson067: Attack the Weakness (Momentary Reflections)When I was 17, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins.
It was my senior year of high school. Oddly enough, it was the perfect time for me to go through this. My body was strong enough to endure the drugs but new enough to get a clean start when it was all over.
Since my bout with cancer, I have done a pretty good job of staying healthy. I do not get sick very often. Occasionally, my chest will get congested or I'll deal with a stuffy nose for a day, but I'm never more than "under...2016-02-1705 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson066: Vets’ Lives Matter – in honor of Daniel Demaio – featuring Robb NovotnyRobb Novotny is our guest this week. He’s a Marine Corps veteran and would like to share Dan Demaio’s story. Dan served with Robb and took his own life just a few years ago. Robb describes the events – good and bad – leading up to Dan’s death and how it affected him moving forward.
Robb recently dedicated a hike from Quantico to New York for his friend Dan and started the initiative #VetsLivesMatter. His efforts show updates for fundraising missions aiding awareness to Veteran Suicide, Mental Illnesses, and Homelessness.
Learn more here: https://www.facebook...2016-02-1753 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson065: 1, 2, Many Project update - TEDx Talk, Call for Guests, BookUpdate from Timothy Lawson and the 1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide Project2016-02-1713 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson064: The Trickle Down Effect of Suicide feat Margy AgarMargy Agar has returned to the 1, 2, Many Project to share new information she’s learned about her daughter’s suicide.
Margy first appeared on the podcast last summer and told us about how her daughter was bullied during her time in the military.
From Margy Agar:
Kim was failed epically when she was left to fend for herself at the most vulnerable time of her life. She was hazed, stigmatized, jealousy prevailed with TOXIC LEADERSHIP. Her LTC was forced to retire, albeit NOT from cause of action. Should have been. More heads should have rolle...2016-02-1747 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson063: Proactively Preventing Suicide (Momentary Reflections)This is the draft for the TEDx Talk I gave at TEDxAmericanU in February 2015.2016-02-1709 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson062: Let’s Keep Talking About Suicide featuring Donleigh GaunkyDonleigh Gaunky is an Army veteran and he recently spoke at a TEDx event on veteran suicide.
He was kind enough to join our program and share his experiences with suicidal behavior.
Tim and Don dig deep into where we’re missing a big piece of the conversation on suicide and how some organizations are forgetting a large demographic.
Tweet at us and let us know what you think:
@TimLawson21
@One2ManyProject
@LastBrotherHome2016-02-1731 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson061: I Still Contemplate Suicide (Momentary Reflections)When I started this project a year ago, I decided to share my story first. The first episode released featured myself and John Lee Dumas. John interviewed me on my suicide attempt and the suicide ideation I experienced throughout life.
I think its time for me to be brutally honest with myself and my followers.
I still contemplate suicide.
It has been several years since I stepped to the ledge. I’m confident when I say I currently do not feel the desire to kill myself. I do think about it, though.
...2016-02-1705 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson060: Nothing is Going to be the Same featuring Zach ButzThis is a unique episode. This week we have Marine Corps veteran Zach Butz.
Zach served with Chris Van Etten, who has been on this program before.
Now, we get to hear Zach’s story and what happened to him after the tragic event in Afghanistan.
This episode speaks on stigma around suicide, emotional health, alcoholism, and more.
“We’re alone, we get overwhelmed, and can’t handle it.”2016-02-1744 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson059: Love Yourself like your Life Depends On It feat Kamal RavikantKamal Ravikant is an Army veteran and author of Love Yourself like your Life Depends on it.
His story and his understanding of his story are very powerful.
This episode is full of insight on emotional health and how taking care of yourself first is so important.
You can learn more about Kamal at FounderZen.com and follow him on Twitter:@KamalRavikant
Go to One2ManyProject.com for more episodes and more on the project.2016-02-1745 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson058: Recovering from Abuse feat Robert Consulmagno (Marine)Robert Consulmagno is a Marine Corps veteran that has faced a lifetime of abuse. He is very passionate about getting his story heard and wants to inspire other veterans to pick themselves up and move forward to great things.
The spotlighted organization this week is Stop Soldier Suicide. Check out their site to learn more about them:
www.stopsoldiersuicide.org2016-02-1738 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson057: Speak to those Around You (Momentary Reflections)
We all want to advocate for causes that are important to us.
After all, that is how I started doing this project. I felt a calling to the cause and decided to do what I do best: podcasts.
Shortly after I started this project, I reached out to others to put their skillsets to work. I asked Sean Riorden and Aaron Provost to help with the logos and imagery. I gave them creative control so they could put their own feelings into it.
I asked Marine veteran Chadd Downing to write a...2016-02-1704 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson056: I Gotta Live feat Chadd Downing (Marine)Chadd Downing created a song for the 1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide project. It is called “Live.”
I decided to bring him onto the podcast to talk about the creative process he experienced making the song and what emotional health means to him.
We’re creating a music video for the song. We hope it will inspire others to use their creative outlet to address this crisis. You can support the Kickstarter here.2016-02-1721 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson055: No one Cares about Veteran Issues (Momentary Reflections)No one cares about veteran issues.
I hear this statement far too often.
Before you get too discouraged by this idea, let me reassure you that it is not true.
There are millions of people that care about the well being of veterans.
Recently, IAVA’s founder, Paul Rieckhoff, was on The Nightly Show. He referenced the Arizona VA scandal and claimed, “no one gave a shit.” I scoffed as soon as I heard it and I felt sorry for every veterans advocate that was watching.
Not only were there...2016-02-1704 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson054: How Team Rubicon provided a Renewed Purpose feat Chad ReynoldsI’m a huge advocate for Team Rubicon. I have been for a while now. I’ve interviewed both co-founders, Jake Wood and William McNulty. Both guys are super impressive.
One of their staff members gifted me a ticket to the Concert for Valor on the National Mall. During the concert, they showed various videos honoring veterans and veteran organizations. Team Rubicon was one of those organizations. In their video, miliary veteran Chad Reynolds talked about his struggle with emotional health and suicide.
I was moved by Chad’s story and reached out to him immedi...2016-02-1748 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson053: Love Can Make You do Crazy Things feat Marc AmatuccThis week we hear from an Army veteran, Marc Amatucci. Marc shares the unfortunate circumstance that led to his suicide attempt.2016-02-1750 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson052: Thank You for the Reminders (Momentary Reflections)“Today, we reached a milestone. I now know more vets who have died due to their own hand than the enemy. Thanks for all you do with this issue, man, but it sometimes seems overwhelming.”
That’s a message that I received last night. Unfortunately, I receive messages like this often.
When someone loses a loved one to suicide – veteran or not – I’ll receive a message.
Sometimes I get updates with a running count. Sometimes they’re admitting their own personal struggles. For some, it’s the first message they’ve ever sent me.
1...2016-02-1704 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy LawsonEp51: We’re Not Rocks, We’re People featuring Kevin LeverenceMarine veteran Kevin Leverence joins the podcast this week.
Kevin shares his story of depression and suicidal behavior. He also provides insight on the use of a weighted blanket and aroma therapy.2016-02-1737 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson050: How Time Travel Could Kill You feat James Altucher & John Lee DumasTime traveling is regretting the past and being anxious about the future. John Lee Dumas asks James Altucher how to avoid time travel. James explains his approach and how this type of stressor can be a killer.
New to the project? Start here: One2ManyProject.com/StartHere
Follow us on Twitter: @One2ManyProject @TimLawson21 @JAltucher @johnleedumas2016-02-1408 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson049: Bad Time to be Strategic (Momentary Reflections)I was browsing Facebook the other day, and I read a post in a group for military suicide that scared me.
“I just want to end the pain tonight.”
It was posted the night before, 16 hour prior to me seeing it. A few people had commented with concern. They asked him to agree to not kill himself, but he didn’t respond.
I should have messaged him. I mean, this is what I’m here for, right? I don’t know who this guy is, but his post indicates that he is a suicide ri...2016-02-1404 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson048: Bridging the Divide feat James AltucherJames Altucher is a best selling author, investor, and growing influencer in today’s world.
He was kind enough to join me in this episode where we talk about his experiences with suicide, mental & emotional health, brain scans, and much more.
You can reach him on Twitter, Linked In, and at his website.
As mentioned in this episode, check out The Soldiers Project and see how you can get involved with their efforts.
The Soldiers Project provides free counseling to service members of all branches of the military, regardless of discharge st...2016-02-1450 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson047: Help Us Help You (Momentary Reflections)What do you miss most about the military?
Let me guess… camaraderie.
It’s the most popular answer. We all saw it. Service members can be seen drinking together, working together, and supporting one another.
In the Marine Corps, our Physical Fitness Test (PFT) involves a three-mile run. Which is crazy to me now, because I get winded after one mile.
Most Marines I served with could complete their run in 19 to 22 minutes. Of course, there were plenty that fell beyond that time. During many of my PFTs, I would see Mari...2016-02-1403 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson046: Not Good Enough feat Jessica Berleen (Navy)My good friend, Jessica Berleen, was gracious enough to share her story this week. She shares the story of her stepdad’s suicide that occurred about 10 years ago. Listen in as Jessica recalls the event, how it impacted her, and what she has learned from it.2016-02-1429 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson045: What to do when Suddenly Depressed? (Q&A)Tim answers the question:
“What do you do when you’re suddenly depressed?”
One2ManyProject.com/Ask2016-02-1407 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson044: Reflections from Tim Lawson’s Girlfriend feat. Shannon McAfee (Momentary Reflections)Tim and I discussed suicide in our first substantive one-on-one conversation. We were wandering around Sea Cliff, New York before the wedding of a mutual friend and somehow it came up. Knowing Tim’s love of off-beat conversation, he may well have orchestrated the topic. Regardless, I shared the story of a friend who killed herself after a long battle with depression and alcoholism. I talked about my belief that as much I disagree with her decision – because of the hurt she caused her family and all of the opportunities for joy that she’s missing – I can’t judge her...2016-02-1408 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson043: Just Don’t Do It feat Steve SxaksArmy Veteran Steve Sxaks shares his story of depression, homelessness, and suicide.2016-02-1436 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson042: What’s the One Thing that drives Military Suicide? (Q&A)Tim answers a question from Quora:
What is the “one thing” that causes American military veterans to commit suicide?2016-02-1406 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson041: More than Just Memories (Momentary Reflections)One day a friend of mine will die.
Later, another will die.
Death is something that we as a species are cursed with knowing. Each death will be sad, but I hope to limit the amount of deaths that bring regret.
Not just the regret of wishing we said more or spent more time, but a regret of knowing I had missed an opportunity to really do something with that person.
I love my friends.
I do not have any siblings and did not grow up around my cousins...2016-02-1405 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson040: Five Times a Survivor feat. Tory Utz (Navy)Navy veteran Tory Utz joins Tim this week. Tory shares her story of suicidal behavior and what drove her to attempt five different times.2016-02-1433 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson039: What About Pre-Entry Therapy? (Q&A)Tim answers a question brought to him during a presentation:
What if we gave recruits pre-entry therapy to nurture mental and emotional health risks?2016-02-1407 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson038: Not Everyone Knows & Not Everyone Cares. (Momentary Reflections)“Wait, how did he know that?”
This was the immediate response from a student at The Washington Center last night after his classmate correctly answered my question on the number of veteran suicides per day.
I was surprised – not that someone knew the answer but at the challenge to his quick response. I feel like the scale of the crisis, 22 per day, is common knowledge, but I guess not everyone knows.
To me, veteran suicide awareness is booming. I see it all over Facebook and all over Twitter. There are groups and hashtags, events...2016-02-1405 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson037: Being Passionate About the Issue feat. Corey Christman (Air Force)My friend Corey joins me this week to discuss investigating suicides and how to address the epidemic inside the veteran space.2016-02-1432 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson036: Personal Contributions (Q&A)This week Tim takes a different approach to the question “What can I do to help?”
There’s also a song by Chadd Downing.2016-02-1411 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson035: Virtual Mentors (Momentary Reflections)Find empathy. Discover renewed purpose. Gain mentorship. Know you matter.
Those are the main points in any of my presentations and they are common themes across this project. They make sense to both veterans and non-veterans. When it comes to true suicide prevention, I believe these to be key.
I’ve noticed a lot of people view mentorship as this sacred bond they feel between themselves and a person with eternal wisdom 20 years their elder.
If that’s a situation you find, then that’s great. Most people can’t find perfect personal mentors...2016-02-1309 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson034: Getting Depressed (Q&A)What do you do to avoid the cycle of depression?2016-02-1317 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson033: The Reality of Transparency (Momentary Reflections)“I read your post the other day.”
I hear that often now. Usually it gets followed up with “I thought it was good” or “I’m impressed” or “I think it’s so important that you’re doing this.”
Sometimes people are referring to one of the stories shared on Monday. Usually though, they comment on the discovery of Momentary Reflections.
Episode One was easy for me. It was just another story. It was a time in my past that I’m willing to talk about. Those moments in history that can make us feel vulnerable becom...2016-02-1307 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson032: Surviving My Son’s Suicide w/ Andy WeissAndy Weiss joins Timothy Lawson to tell his son’s story. Andy has a lot to say about his son’s service and his passing.2016-02-1358 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson031: What Do You Do in that State of Mind? (Q&A)Tim answers a question given to him through his website.
“What do you do when you’re in that state of mind?”
Have a question for Tim? Ask here: One2ManyProject.com/ask2016-02-1310 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson030: I Still Struggle with This (Momentary Reflections)I got into another one of my “funks” recently. This past weekend, I became frustrated with life and started feeling guilty about the past. I’m sure this is something many of you can resonate with.
I want to reiterate a couple points I’ve been making in these momentary reflections: none of this is a quick fix and it is something you’ll battle more than once after you “recover.”
I still struggle with these emotional issues. I’m able to better identify what is going on now, as I mentioned in a previous post, but I stil...2016-02-1305 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson029: Who Should I Support? (Q&A)Tim gets asked about nonprofits and veteran organizations all the time. He’s mentioned a few in past episodes, but he touches on the four he recommends supporting the most on this week’s show.2016-02-1311 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson028: A Friendly Reminder (Momentary Reflections)I separated from the Marine Corps on September 14, 2011. Like most Marines, I was ready for the relief. I was also nervous. I thought I had a good plan, but I was wrong. A lot has transpired in three years.
Since getting out of the Marine Corps, I’ve been fired from two jobs and quit one. The last job I was fired from was over coffee I wasn’t authorized to drink.
I had a motorcycle stolen from me. It was my only mode of transportation at the time and was stolen days before I was...2016-02-1307 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson027: We All Have Problems feat Christopher Van Etten (Marine)This week Marine veteran and double amputee Chris Van Etten joins Tim Lawson to talk about his struggles with PTSD and a time he considered suicide.
The explosion that took Chris’ legs also took one of his friends. This created an understandable sense of survivor’s guilt.
While he hasn’t attempted suicide, it is definitely something that has crossed his mind.
I always enjoy my conversations with Chris because he is candid and honest. I appreciate his insight on the importance of empathy, purpose, and mentorship.
Chris has become a fitness...2016-02-1325 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson026: Why Would Anyone Listen? (Q&A)This week Tim answers the question:
Why would anyone listen to this podcast?2016-02-1312 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson025: What’s Wrong with Me? (Momentary Reflections)I rolled into the weekend without a story ready to release on Monday. Sunday evening came, and I hadn’t made any progress. I woke up Monday morning worrying about getting it done. By the time it was 5pm, I just wasn’t feeling it. I wasn’t in a good space and I didn’t want to force anything. All I needed to do was record my thoughts on the story, but I just couldn’t collect myself. I made an announcement that there would be no story this week and moved on.
I woke up this morni...2016-02-1307 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson024: Where’s the Activism? (Q&A)Where is the activism for veteran suicide?2016-02-1314 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson023: The Iron Rule (Momentary Reflections)It wasn’t our weak hand. There was nothing weak about a Marine. My left hand was my support hand. It wasn’t as strong as my right hand, but it could still accomplish tasks.
It seems like semantics, but it truly changed the way I thought about my left hand. I no longer avoided using it during certain tasks, but instead I became selective with how I used it. My right hand still reached for my firearm, my baton, and my pepper spray, but my left grabbed my handcuffs and assisted me in detaining a subject.
2016-02-1305 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson022: Don’t Want to be a Burden (Navy)This week we hear a story of a woman’s grandfather taking his own life. He was a Navy veteran.2016-02-1326 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson021: Where’s the Media Attention? (Q&A)Timothy Lawson takes on a popular question in the military community:
Where is the media attention?2016-02-1319 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson020: Finding Peace (Momentary Reflections)What does it mean to truly prevent suicide?
I’ve been asked this question plenty of times and I’ve thought about it ten fold. Having this project focus on veteran suicide benefits us in two ways. First, we can better understand the tribulations of our fellow veterans and honor their stories through this programming. Second, we can pick up on the military specific situations and how to best address them, while still applying what we understand to struggles with suicide within the wider population.
I believe a lot of people who do not understand depr...2016-02-1306 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson019: What’s the Greatest Response the Project Has Received? (Q&A)Tim answers two questions:
– What is the best response you’ve received for the project?– What is the worst response?
Tune in!2016-02-1314 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson018: I Matter to Someone (Momentary Reflection)I’ve had hundreds of conversations about suicide. Possibly even thousands, if you count any discussion I had before I started this project. It’s not something I’ve been trying to figure out, but something I’ve been trying to understand.
This project has taught me so much about suicidal behavior. I’ve heard so many different accounts of this dark subject. Through conversation and ponder, I’ve been able to hone in on the three ideas that I believe can best derail suicidal behavior: empathy, purpose, and mentorship. There is one more idea that I’ve realized in t...2016-02-1305 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson017: Healing Process feat Timothy Jones (Navy)Navy veteran Timothy Jones shares with us this week. Tim tells us about how a fellow shipmate was hazed for being gay and how it led to his suicide. This story shows us how hazing can be dangerous when dealt out in a milicious manner.
Timothy goes on to talk about his own personal struggles. He endured an assault during his Navy career and has been in a healing process ever since.
Resource: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-82552016-02-1337 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson016: How Can Religion Help? (Q&A)Tim answers a few more questions this week:
– How can religion fulfill a new purpose?– How has the rate changed with so many vets coming home?– How can we see the signs?2016-02-1317 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson015: Remember, I Love You w/ Margy Agar (Gold Star Mom)Margy Agar, a Gold Star Mom, tells her daughter’s tragic story of bullying in the military and suicide.2016-02-1345 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson014: Find Someone They Look Up To (Q&A)Weekly Q & A:
Tim answers another question from the audience. This week’s question actually comes from his first speaking appearance at the American Legion Auxiliary conference in Washington DC. Click the play button above to hear his response. His full presentation is in the video below.
Summarized: What should a family do if they can’t seem to communicate or reach out to a family member having troubles
If you’d like to submit a question for next week. Comment on Facebook or tweet at me: @One2ManyProject or @TimLawson212016-02-1312 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson013: Your Worst is YOUR Worst (Momentary Reflections)I sit here in the wake of Robin Williams’ suicide wondering what I could add that others already haven’t. As much as I try to avoid news-jacking, the conversation that surrounded Williams’ death fits the point I’m making today.
I want to start this flow of thought with a line from the song Follow Your Lead by Joe Budden. Joe is one of my favorite artists and I seem to resonate with so many of his lyrics.
“Always say I’ve been through worse, what if I haven’t?”
A number of responses to R...2016-02-1307 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson012: Do What You Can & Take Action w/ Antonio Centeno (Marine)We have the honor of sharing two stories this week. Antonio Centeno, a Marine, shares the accounts of a fellow Marine’s suicide as well as his sister’s. Its the first time we’ve gotten a story regarding suicide from the perspective of a veteran losing a non-service member.
2016-02-1347 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson011: What Should the Military Do? (Q & A)Weekly Q & A:
Tim answers a few questions that have come up recently. One from a podcast he was featured on and the other two from a live session he gave at The Washington Center.
~What are a few trends you see in these conversations?~What should be done in the military?~How can we help you past listening & sharing?
If you’d like to submit a question for next week. Comment on Facebook or tweet at me: @One2ManyProject or @TimLawson212016-02-0411 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson010: Missing Out Now Means Regretting It Later (Momentary Reflections)Death is something I contemplate. I think about what it would mean for me to die. Not just in suicide, but in general. I also ponder the deaths of friends, family, and others around me. I simply wonder what it would be like to experience the news of that person dying and the implications it would have on my life.
Of course, I don’t want to die, and I definitely don’t want my friends or family to. Its just a part of my nature to think about these things.
If I’m in the “r...2016-02-0405 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson009: Strong Enough to be Weak feat Mylee CardenasMylee Cardenas is a soldier, cancer survivor, sexual assault survivor, and a single mom. She joins us today to share a story about a friend of hers who committed suicide.
Mylee talks about the stigma of PTSD, suicide, and depression in the military. She also explains how her friend suffered from the worst demons and couldn’t see past his anxieties.
In the reflections, I talk about how “Here for you” is something that needs to be defined and explained. There is also talks on how its important to push through the stigma of suicide.2016-02-0443 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson008: End the Pain feat Andrew O’Brien (Army)Army veteran Andrew O’Brien joins me this week to share his story. Andrew saw a traumatic scene during his deployment – one that he was instructed not to seek out – and it stayed with him long after his deployment was over. Andrew talks about his battle with PTSD, depression, emotional pain, his attempt, and what it all means to him now.2016-02-0447 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson007: Simple Things Save Lives w/ Dr. Craig O’Brien (Air Force)This episode takes a “lighter” approach the to subject of suicide as we talk to Dr. Craig Bryan about treatments, diagnosing PTSD, suicide as it relates to sexual trauma, and more.
I think it is good for all of us to take a short break from the emotional taxing stories that are so important and powerful for us to hear. Episode 8 will continue these brave stories again.
For more information on Dr. Bryan, check out his bio at the University of Utah Veteran Studies Center: http://www.psych.utah.edu/people/person.php?id=2652016-02-0445 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson006: Learn from your TragediesAnonymous Army Veteran shares another powerful story involving a friend of his. Although he lost his friend to suicide, he was able to learn from the experience and save another life.2016-02-0454 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson005: The Selfishness of Suicide feat KC Sivumaki (Marine)Originally aired: July 8, 2014
This week’s episode brings us Sgt of Marines KC Sivumaki. KC talks to me about getting injured in Ramadi and the challenges of the physical and mental recovery. He found himself feeling like a burden to his family and attempted suicide. Fortunately, he was unsuccessful and is here to share his experience.
Also, Ron Garner, a Marine vet, explains some challenges faced by service members when adjusting after deployment.
Is suicide selfish? Some people believe so. Personally, I believe its more selfish to accuse someone of beings selfish when th...2016-02-0452 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson004: Reaching out is Scary feat David Peters (Marine)Episode four features Marine veteran David Peters. David was a Marine Security Guard posted in Bratislava when he was prepared to kill himself. Luckily, a phone call home and some inner courage got him into the embassy nurse’s office to get the help he needed. Its been an uphill battle for him since then, but he finds himself in a good spot in life and has willingly come forward to share his story with us.
Dr. Craig Bryan, at the University of Utah Veteran Studies Center, chimes in at the end to touch self sacrifice and othe...2016-02-0444 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson003: Ripple Effect of Suicide w/ Mark WadeOriginally Aired: June 23, 2014
We’re already three weeks into this project and I’m getting amazing feedback. Thank you to everyone taking the time to listen and share these stories. Episode Three includes a story from a Marine veteran about his friend who took his own life inside his barracks room.
First, I want to reiterate a few points made at the beginning of the show:
RESPECT my guests
Do NOT call them out if they’ve chosen to be anonymous
Share this with those you feel would benefit
Be sure to take something from e...2016-02-0445 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson002: Fight Together, Recover Together feat Zachary Bell (Marine)Originally Aired: June 16, 2014
Episode Two is here. This episode includes a story from a Marine veteran about his friend who took his own life. We also hear a couple minutes about suicidal signals from Dr. Tracy Clemansat University of Utah.
First, I want to reiterate a few points made at the beginning of the show:
RESPECT my guests
Do NOT call them out if they’ve chosen to be anonymous
Share this with those you feel would benefit
Be sure to take something from each episode
Secondly, this project has reached success because of m...2016-02-0443 min1, 2, Many: Veteran Suicide with Timothy Lawson001: This Too Shall Pass featuring John Lee Dumas (Army)Originally Aired: June 8, 2014
We have finally begun. The project that everyone has been waiting to release is finally here. Before I get into this first episode, I want to thank everyone who has supported my efforts and has patiently waited for this.
I want to reiterate a few points made at the beginning of the show:
RESPECT my guests
Do NOT call them out if they’ve chosen to be anonymous
Share this with those you feel would benefit
Be sure to take something from each episode
Secondly, this project has reached success be...2016-02-0443 min