Warriors Unmasked

Latest Episodes:

70. Creating A War Chest Of Coping Mechanisms with Jeff Johnston May 03, 2022

Show notes

Countless studies have shown that some of the top traumatic events that could happen in someone's life include the loss of a child, divorce, and the loss of a spouse. Any one of these events would challenge even the "strongest" men…but imagine if all three of these tragic events happened within a few years and to make matters worse, what if all of these events happened due to avoidable substance abuse. For most of us, this type of pain and loss would be unfathomable, but today's guest knows first-hand how this situation feels.

Welcome back to another episode of Warriors Unmasked! Today we sit down with Father, Author, Founder of his own nonprofit Choices Network Limited, Podcast hosts of Living Undeterred, and Mental Health Advocate, Mr. Jeff Johnson! Jeff will take a deep dive into his journey and the fateful day in October of 2006 that changed his life forever. In the face of great loss, Jeff soon realized that he had two options. He could go down a road of anger and despair and become bitter, or he could use his situation as motivation to become better. He chose the latter.

His story will teach you that pain is unavoidable in this life but suffering is a choice. Hit play to hear how his journey with grief has helped him create a war chest of coping mechanisms and how he is improving his mental health day by day. You'll also hear how he took a step back in his career as a financial advisor and turned his attention toward making a difference and is now using his story to serve and impact others who may be facing their own battles.

In this conversation, you'll learn more about Jeff's non-profit, and how he is dedicated to educating kids, parents, teachers & coaches on the importance of making positive choices, get a look into how first book "This One's For You: An Inspirational Journey Through Addiction, Death and Meaning", resources to help develop alternative solutions to the mental health and addiction crises, and so much more!

We hope you enjoy this content as much as we did. As always, if you ever need someone to talk to or if you are struggling with negative/suicidal thoughts, we are here for you! Scroll down to see the links below and connect with us or Jeff today.

More Of What's Inside:

The pain of losing a son
When addiction consumes you
When alcohol feels like the only option
There is no time frame for grieving
How to be proactive about your mental health
What it takes to grow in self-awareness
A look into Jeff's national speaking tour
The #1 book everyone should read
Allowing yourself to be a work in progress
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

http://www.LivingUndeterred.com
https://www.livingundetoured.com
http://www.TheChoicesNetwork.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-johnston
Facebook: Living Undeterred: https://www.facebook.com/LivingUndeterred
Twitter: undeterreddad: https://twitter.com/undeterreddad
Youtube: Living Undeterred: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmGZTTnszWNlkG0sIGcp-YQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingundeterred

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 Get to know Mr. Jeff Johnson
1:33 Thank you to today's sponsors
4:22 the phone call that changed Jeff's family forever
9:45 The two ways alcoholism can end
13:24 The best question you could ask yourself
17:17 The danger of taking shortcuts with grieving
24:20 Creating a war chest of copping mechanisms
29:17 How Jeff honors his loved ones with tattoos
35:00 You can't bankrupt passion
38:01 How to connect with Jeff
41:41 The importance of avoiding toxic relationship
50:12 Just be better than you were yesterday

69. Small But Significant Changes Anyone Can Make to Transform Their Live with Dave Algeo Apr 26, 2022

Show notes

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 18.4 million children (1 in 4) live without a biological, step, or adoptive Father in the home. When you zoom out to a global perspective, that number, unfortunately only gets bigger. Researching the statistics and facts about what happens to children that grow up with no father is truly heartbreaking.

That's just one of the reasons why today's story is so empowering. Whether you grew up in an unstable home or just had bad cards handed to you early, this conversation will prove that anyone can take their past pains and turn them into a catalyst for success.

Welcome back for episode 69 of Warriors Unmasked! Today we are joined by former police officer turned coach and speaker, Dave Algeo! He is on a mission to help others reclaim their spirit of adventure and live big by identifying the small but significant changes anyone can make to transform their lives from the inside out.

Listen in as Dave shares how he recognized the "default mode" he was operating from and how growing up with no father made him feel like he was never good enough. In this episode, Dave shares how he identified this limiting belief and the practical steps he took to change the negative narrative in his head that began when he was just a boy. Hit play to hear why we think these practical tips and tricks should be in everyone's mental health toolbox!

Dave also shares how his time as a Police officer and being a first responder taught him how to manage stress and anxiety to a high level. These high-pressure days are what made Dave appreciate the importance of self-compassion and why he is passionate about sharing these positive coping tools.

You'll also hear how Dave found it in himself to forgive people who hurt him in the past, how he unlocked his passion to serve and protect others, how to rewrite your negative thoughts, and so much more! We hope this episode inspires you as much as it did us. To connect with us or Dave, scroll down to see the links!

Always in your corner,

Chuck and Clint

More Of What's Inside:

How to know if a problem is worth your time
Identifying your negative thought patterns
How your body remembers the trauma
Your parents are just people
Encouragement everyone needs in 2022
The murder case that changed Dave
Life in "The Great Down Under"
Finding the bravery to ask for help
Re-shape, Re-group, Re-design!
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

www.restlessmidlifer.com
dave@restlessmidlifer.com

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 What's Inside's Today's episode
1:29 Thank you to our sponsors
2:22 Get to know Dave: A look into his journey
2:19 What life was like growing up without a Dad
9:45 Learning how to give grace to parents
12:30 Changing your default modes
20:20 The case that changed Dave's life
25:56 When your body remembers the trauma
28:00 When Dave left the police force
36:56 Small but sustainable habit changes
42:10 How to follow Dave's journey
45:36 Tips to overcome the feeling of overwhelm

68. Non-Verbal to Radio Announcer: Overcoming Invisible Illnesses with Blake Priddle Apr 19, 2022

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of Warriors Unmasked! If we had to sum up today's conversation in just one word…we would have to choose the word "wow."

From non-verbal to radio announcer. From social outcast to leader of change. From debilitating OCD, Autism, and Anxiety to mental health warrior. These are just a few examples of how our guest today has transformed his life one day at a time. This story will take you from feeling heartbreak and sadness to feeling encouraged, heart warmed, and empowered. Hit play to join the conversation with Blake Priddle!

In this episode, Blake shares how being diagnosed with autism at age six, followed by an OCD diagnosis only a few years later at age eleven led to a less than ideal high school experience. After being bullied and picked on for years, compounded by the inescapable reality that he really was different than everyone else left him feeling alone and contemplated taking his own life.

Hear how Blake overcame the darkness and found not only his voice but what he calls his "rightful place in society." This story is so impactful to anyone who may be battling their own challenges in life. Whether it be autism, anxiety, OCD, depression, or anything in between, Blake is living proof that we all have the ability to break stereotypes and redefine what success looks like for those living with an "invisible" illness.

You'll also hear a sneak peek into Blake's newest book, "Good Morning, Blake....Growing Up Autistic And Being Okay", how growing up with autism made Blake a better friend, practical tips for managing your day with an OCD/anxious mind, why adults need to take a stand for the next generations mental health and more.

We hope this episode serves as a beacon of light for those who may be struggling. As always, if you found this Podcast and you feel like you have no one to talk to and nowhere to turn…this isn't an accident. Reach out to us if you need a safe place to talk! Links below to learn more.

Always in your corner,

Chuck and Clint

More Of What's Inside:

Panic attack vs. temper tantrums
Things that can set off an autistic child
How autism and OCD can be related
Being the parent of an autistic kid
Blake's passion for writing
How Blake fell in love with radio
Tips for teachers on how to stop bullies
How to find your happiness
And much more!

Connect With Blake:

blake.priddle@bell.net
www.blakecrashpriddle.com

Connect with Clint and Chuck:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 What you can expect from today's conversation
3:05 The beginning of Blake's journey to identity
6:52 How Blake managed his OCD during the pandemic
9:12 The positive side of growing up autistic
15:08 What led Blake to his radio career
19:18 When things started to change for the better
23:33 The feeling of being different
26:57 A sneak peek into Blake's new book
33:48 How Blake's teachers helped him feel included
36:02 What a good day of managing ODC, Autism, and Anxiety looks like
40:09 How to get a copy of Blake's book

67. Warriors Unmasked Conversation With André Allen Apr 12, 2022

Show notes

"They have everything going for them! What do they have to worry about?"

The phrase above represents the assumption of many when it comes to the successful. Culture suggests that just because you are a successful athlete or entrepreneur, you should have everything together. This common misconception has caused a lot of internal stress for high performers and is what keeps emotions "bottled up."

On the other hand, culture also assumes that just because you maybe come from a broken family or grew up on the wrong side of town, your future is already predetermined, so why even try reaching for something more? In today's episode, we leave all the assuming behind and talk about seeing past face value and knowing people where it matters. Their heart.

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Today we welcome former athlete, professional speaker, and founder of Crossroad Moments, André Allen. André shares his faith-filled journey of growing up in Mississippi, the harsh transition of his parent's divorce, and the moment that changed his perspective forever. You'll hear how moving to a more integrated city made André realize we are not just skin deep and how communication is the key to unlocking new doors and becoming all you can be.

Join the conversation as Andre talks about how God used sports and athletics to help him become the first college graduate in his family. Because of his hard work and discipline, generations after him can now reach for a brighter future. André isn't just a trailblazer in education, though; listen in as we talk about the crossroads moment André experienced during the toughest time of his life and how reaching out (something he had never learned in his family) made all the difference and set course for the impactful life he leads today.

This episode is sure to leave you empowered and hopeful! Hit play to learn how to overcome your own "crossroads moment" and how you can take action towards a better future today. Remember, the door is always open for those who have the courage to seek help. For more resources or to connect with us, check out the links below!

Always in your corner,

Chuck and Clint

More Of What's Inside:

How divorce affected 11-year-old André
Looking at someone's heart, not their skin
What builds a true leader
The domino of being the first to go to college
Owning the power you have to change the world
Finding your circle of people you trust
Relearning how to approach life
What to do if you reach a crossroads
The importance of loving yourself
Why you should give yourself a chance
And much more!

Connect With André:

Website: https://crossroadmoments.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HighFivePillars/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/high5pillars/

Connect with Clint and Chuck:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What to expect today!
2:27 - Welcome, trailblazer André Allen
5:56 - Growing up with racial tension in Mississippi
12:08 - The moment André's world opened up
16:39 - Communication is powerful
19:14 - How sports taught André to be a leader
27:04 - The hardest time in André's life
31:16 - Overcoming mental adversity with people you trust
38:11 - Understanding the struggle of athletes
44:32 - The heart of Crossroad Moments

66. How Sports Can Help Save Your Life with Connor Matthews Apr 05, 2022

Show notes

For most veterans, returning to civilian life is the hardest part of coming home. PTSD and other mental illnesses can take a toll that many don't have the skills to handle. Today, you'll hear how one Air Force veteran is working to better that.

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! We sit down to talk with Professional MMA fighter and former Air Force combat controller, Connor Matthews. Connor takes us on an incredible journey from growing up with ADHD and the sports that kept him focused, to fighting in Afghanistan and those same practices that brought him peace after returning home.

Listen in as Connor talks about the benefits of sports in the lives of people dealing with ADHD and how learning that discipline at a young age lead him to become an elite member of the U.S. Air Force. We talk about his life after service, the struggle of finding a new normal, and how martial arts gave him the skills to deal with his PTSD and live life with a new purpose.

Whether you or someone you know has served in the military this episode is sure to bring a little more hope for the future of our veterans. For more resources or to get in touch, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

What life looks like with ADHD
Giving up a life goal and finding a new purpose
Becoming a jack of all trades in the military
The struggle of returning to civilian life after combat
The tools that kept Connor in a good mental space
Finding the right support system for you
The best way to deal with traumatic experiences
You don't have to be the best, just consistent
The slippery slope of alcohol and drugs
How veterans can find support
And much more!

Connect With Connor:

Website: https://opvetnow.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/operationvetnow
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/operationvetnow/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/operation-vet-now/?viewAsMember=true

Connect with Clint and Chuck:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today!
2:21 - Introducing Connor Matthews
5:22 - Growing up with ADHD
9:42 - The moment Connor's life changed
14:28 - Why Connor became a combat controller
19:49 - The pressure of fighting in Afghanistan
26:35 - Connor's Life after returning to America
32:59 - Navigating the struggle of PTSD
37:11 - How MMA saved Connor's life
44:14 - Connor's advice for you
46:13 - For veterans who need a little extra support

65. Finding A New Level Of Peace After Trauma Through The Power Of Movement with Valerie Walsh Mar 29, 2022

Show notes

Sometimes, when you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or really any mental health issue the last thing you want to do is get up and move. However, exercising and even moving around is a powerful tool that can quiet your thoughts and help you live a life of peace.

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Today we sit down with the coach and author of "Shattered to the Core", the #1 new release for loss and love, Valerie Walsh. For more than twenty-five years, Valerie has been dedicated to helping others achieve their physical fitness goals. After the loss of her mother to suicide in 2013 and battling growing anxiety and depression, Valerie began her journey of getting to the core of who she really is.

Join us as we talk about Valerie's journey from growing up with an alcoholic mother to developing the addiction for herself and how she has managed to overcome that addiction and live life with peace. Listen in as Valerie talks about the events that led to the eventual publication of her book and her best tips and practices to get up, get moving, and start your own mental health journey.

So hit play, sit back and relax because Valerie's story is one that will inspire and empower you. For more resources, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

Growing up with an alcoholic
Stop saying you're "fine"
The power in surrender
Why you shouldn't fight your anxiety
How writing helped Valerie cope
A new perspective of suicide
The importance of accountability
Why movement is non-negotiable
Tips to improve your daily life
What to do when you can't exercise
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

Book:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1737957124
Website: https://valeriejwalsh.com/
Twitter: ValerieWalsh14
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriewalsh14/

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today
2:22 - Introducing Valerie Walsh
3:45 - Valerie's early life
7:43 - Why you aren't "complaining"
10:55 - Valerie's first sip
14:42 - Taking back the power from anxiety
19:20 - The events that inspired Valerie's book
24:50 - Why self-care is important
27:27 - How a coping mechanism turned into a book
30:05 - When Valerie learned more about her mother
34:45 - How Valerie overcame alcoholism
39:55 - The powerful tool of movement
44:15 - 3 Daily tips to improve your mental health
45:17 - Where to find Valerie
47:25 - Valerie's advice to you
48:07 - Closing thoughts

64. Ditching The Mask and Living Boldly Authentic with Coach Kristin Taylor Mar 22, 2022

Show notes

When it comes to your journey with mental health, there is one component that always gets the ball rolling: acceptance. When we live in denial or resist what is disturbing us, it only prolongs our suffering and, most times takes a toll on our self-image. So, if you're looking for a way to overcome your struggles and be your true self every day, this episode is for you.

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Today we sit down with life and executive coach and mental health advocate Kristin Taylor. Join us as Kristin talks about her journey from growing up as a hyper-sensitive kid with anxiety-induced tummy issues to learning self-love and compassion, allowing her to live her life boldly and authentically.

Kristin talks about the signs of hyper-sensitivity, how it manifests in kids and adults, and how you can support those struggling with it. Listen in as we talk about committing fully to living authentically, taking responsibility for the hard things in your life, and why one of the best things you can do for yourself is just to give yourself some love. Now, we know, the journey to healing is not an easy path, but when you hit play, you'll hear just what's on the other side of your 'yes'.

Kristin's story is an incredible example of what perseverance, courage, and focusing on mental health can do in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow and share it with your friends and family. For more resources or to connect with Kristin, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

Pretending to have it all together
Growing up with anxiety
Looking at your sensitivity as a gift
Understanding that healing takes time
Being ok with getting messy
Are you willing to show up as your authentic self?
Permission to set boundaries in your life
Learning self-compassion
Being aware of what your thoughts are saying
Responding vs. reacting
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

Website: https://www.kristintaylorconsulting.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristintaylorconsulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narrativebasedstudentcoaching/

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today
2:25 - Introducing Kristin Taylor
3:58 - How Kristin started her journey
7:10 - Dealing with anxiety as a child
12:27 - Examples of a sensitive child
17:50 - When you're an old soul
22:30 - How Kristin began healing
28:01 - Doing the hard work
34:16 - What happens when you show your authentic self
39:24 - What mindfulness and self-compassion looks like
47:54 - Your first step to healing
50:13 - Where to find Kristin
53:52 - Kristin's advice for you
54:51 - Closing thoughts

63. Making The World A Better Place One Person At A Time With Ari Gunzburg Mar 15, 2022

Show notes

If you've been listening to Warrior's Unmasked for a while you know that tragedy is something that can happen at any time. Like today's guest, who experienced death at only ten years old, but that doesn't mean his story ends there…

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Today we sit down with speaker, coach, author, and mental health advocate Ari Gunzburg. Listen in as Ari takes us on a journey throughout his life, from the fateful day his 4th-grade teacher died, to struggling as a teen, and eventually heading out on his own and refocusing his life for the better.

Join us as Ari shares a glimpse into his packed life, with stories of the people who have helped him along the way, God's moves within his life, what finally changed his perspective, and even his advice to those who may be struggling as well! You'll hear how he dedicates his time to helping those who are in need of a little hope, and how he helps with just one person at a time.

So sit back, hit play, and relax, and if you enjoyed this episode make sure to subscribe or share with a friend! For more resources or to connect with Ari, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

Experiencing tragedy at 10 years old
Understanding the beauty of the circle of life
Moments when God's hand was present
Learning to let go of controlling everything
How Ari handled the death of his teacher
The "brothers" that helped Ari refocus his life
How Ari found his passion for speaking
Why your story matters
Where to find Ari's book
The 5 keys to greatness
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

Website: https://www.arigunzburg.com/
Website: https://www.5keystogreatness.com/
Website: https://littlebookofgreatness.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arigunz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AriGunzburg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AriGunzburg
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcTme9CXv-r9DP8r4HzM5cQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arigunz/

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today
2:24 - Introducing Ari Gunzburg
3:20 - Ari's younger years
9:06 - Acknowledging the worlds around us
12:19 - The moment that changed Ari's life
16:40 - Understanding the unexplainable
23:51 - When they found the edge of the woods
25:43 - Leaving school in 7th grade
31:55 - Struggling as a teen
37:39 - The influence Ari needed
40:50 - Searching for more fulfillment in life
44:37 - The first time Ari told his story
48:43 - Why your story doesn't disqualify you
51:35 - A book you shouldn't miss!
57:43 - Ari's advice for you
1:03:16 - Closing thoughts

62. The Connection Between Mental Health and Happiness with Jason Shiers Mar 08, 2022

Show notes

Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to be piling on top of one another and the tenuous hold you had on your good mood just evaporates? Sometimes life has a way of making our difficult moments even harder, but that doesn't mean you can't live without true peace and happiness. It all starts with your thoughts…

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Today we sit down with psychotherapist and transformative coach Jason Shiers. Join us as Jason talks about his journey of losing his father at five years old, the addictions he grew to cope with his struggle, and the path of self-destruction Jason was certain he couldn't get out of. You'll hear about his incredible transformation and how his true path to happiness started with getting out of his head.

Listen in as Jason talks about the construct behind mental illness and how your thought life is more than just experiencing the world around you. You'll learn why addiction is more than behavior or substance abuse, the link between overthinking and mental illness, and the steps that transformed Jason's inner world from one of victimization to an empowered and true version of himself.

If you've ever felt like your brain never takes a break then this episode is for you, so hit play, sit back and learn the truth of how you can better your outer world today! For more resources or to connect with Jason, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

Losing his father at 5 years old
Using food as a coping mechanism
The dangers of living without hope
When its uncomfortable to be you
Why addiction is more than behavioral
The cause of mental illness
Finding happiness for no good reason
A peek into Jason's book
Learning to "be" where you are
Existing peacefully within your own mind
Creating the experiences you are having
How to get out of a victim mindset
And much more!

GUEST LINKS:

Website - Wide World Life Coaching - Jason Shiers
Website - UKAT - Private Drug & Alcohol Addiction Treatment | UKAT & NHS Services
Website - Misunderstanding Of The mind
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-shiers-79170991/

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today!
2:25 - Introducing Jason Shiers
4:43 - Jason's story
10:50 - Living a self-destructive life
15:03 - Quieting the mind with addiction
20:05 - The construct of mental illness
23:25 - How Jason transformed himself
26:50 - What you'll find in Jason's book
31:20 - Changing inside first to change outside
37:35 - The connection with a deeper truth
42:04 - Books from Jason to look out for
47:46 - On the other side of darkness
49:08 - Jason's advice for you
50:48 - Closing thoughts

61. Letting Toxic People Go and Learning How To Trust with Jessica Gerski Mar 01, 2022

Show notes

If you've been listening to Warriors Unmasked for a while you know that trauma and mental illness doesn't pick favorites. We don't always get to choose the paths we travel in life but that doesn't mean we don't have the power to change our lives.

Welcome back to Warriors Unmasked! Chuck here, while Clint is out changing the world I sit down with incredible soccer player, coach, and master's graduate Jessica Gerski. Jessica shares her story of growing up as the product of an affair, how she navigated life with an absent father, and the healing she's found along the way.

Join us as we talk about Jessica's yearning for a family that did not want her and the moment she realized she deserved better. Listen in to hear how this has affected her entire life from sports to friendships, and relationships, Jessica has fought for peace of mind and the light at the end of the tunnel. You'll learn the practices Jessica does to stay on top of her mental health, why she decided to face her issues head-on, and why she is passionate about the importance of expressing your emotions.

This episode is filled with amazing insight into shedding the weight of judgment from others and living a life that you're proud of. For more resources, check out the links below!

More Of What's Inside:

Growing up without a dad
Finding out she was the product of an affair
The importance of fathers
Why it's not your fault
Staying away from toxic people in your life
Facing your issues head-on
Learning to trust again
Practices to help with mental health
Why crying is healthy for you
Embracing failure to know true success
And much more!

LINKS:

Episode Minute By Minute:

0:02 - What we cover today!
2:19 - Welcome Jessica Gerski
6:35 - Growing up in a different family
10:01 - Jessica's relationship with her dad
15:55 - Dealing with the damage
20:58 - How Jessica leans into new relationships
25:34 - Learning to communicate through struggle
31:21 - Keeping on top of her mental health
37:10 - The importance of embracing feelings
39:41 - What Jessica's life looks like today
45:06 - Jessica's advice for you
47:20 - Closing thoughts

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected