The robust Raw and Real Vet Talk Podcast delves into the lived experiences of veterans, focusing specifically on their mental health journeys. From the raw and often painful discussions about PTSD and traumatic divorce to the empowering exploration of positive coping mechanisms, this podcast offers a safe space for veterans. It allows them to share their stories, provide support, and shed light on the challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life. Through authentic conversations and the inclusion of well-known guests, the podcast aims to create change by encouraging men to speak up and address mental health.
We sat down with the Raw and Real Talk’s host, PJ Cowan, to discuss the podcast.
Mandi: How does the Raw and Real Vet Talk approach conversations on mental health?
PJ: I gear each segment towards specific topics, whether divorce, military, addiction, or something different. These all have a common factor: they center on mental health and how each topic affects people differently. Additionally, I use my personal experiences regarding PTSD from being in the army or from a traumatic divorce. While I discuss masking moments of depression and anxiety with alcohol, I also discuss how to work through it.
These personal stories with my guests, allow us to share our experiences in hopes of helping others.
Mandi: How has your experience as a veteran shaped the topics you cover on your podcast?
PJ: I’ve been given a chance to speak out loud on life in combat, as well as other issues. I’ve also discussed dealing with veteran affairs, relationships, and navigating civilian life.
Mandi: What challenges did you face during your transition from military life to civilian life?
PJ: When you return to civilian life, you think everything will return to “normal.” But you learn that many things are inaccessible to you, especially mental health services. We see people die, blow up, hear bombs going off, and so on. I was one of the blessed ones able to come home. And I didn’t necessarily realize the toll it would have on me mentally.
Mandi: How do you discuss honest yet sensitive topics?
PJ: My reasoning behind Raw and Real Vet Talk was to be precisely that: raw and real. I am an open book and have always wanted to tell my story. While my story would make the perfect movie, I can use this platform to open up right now. I discuss my experiences with a terrible divorce, coming home, and navigating a broken system.
Mandi: How does your health and fitness business align with your podcast’s themes?
PJ: As an active person, I had to find some form of movement that worked for me. And that led me to start my own fitness company, “Soulja Fit Lifestyle.” Through here, I offer personal training and nutrition coaching. And while I worked on that, I prepared for numerous fitness competitions. Lifting weights helped me through the bad days or weeks, and I wanted to help others feel good, as well.
Mandi: How do you plan to expand the reach of Raw and Real Vet Talk in order?
PJ: I look forward to starting speaking engagements on numerous mental health topics. This will allow me to share my story in more public settings. I also plan to work as an MC/Host for a veterans’ fundraiser at the end of October. I hope to get involved in more face-to-face events and continue with interviews.
Mandi: What goals do you have for both your podcast and health/fitness business in the next few years?
PJ: I plan to re-launch “Soulja Fit Lifestyle,” where I will offer online training, nutrition coaching, and personal/corporate wellness programs. If you want to know more about the programs, follow us on Instagram @souljafit_lifestyle and send me a message!
Be sure sure to follow @raw_and_real_vettalk on Instagram!
Photo by Norbert Buduczki on Unsplash
