Chris Cathers: Green Beret, Bone Cancer and Veteran Suicide

Seth Gehle and Chris Cathers discuss Chris' background and his journey into the military. Chris talks about growing up with a single father, his rebellious teenage years, and his decision to join the military after high school. He shares his experiences in basic training, selection, and the Q course, highlighting the physical and mental challenges he faced. Chris also reflects on the importance of humility and the lessons he learned from older, more experienced team members. Chris Cathers shares his experiences in unconventional warfare, including his time in Iraq and Africa. He discusses his close relationships with his team members and the challenges they faced in combat. Chris also talks about his transition to civilian life and the difficulties he encountered, including the loss of a close friend and struggles with mental health. Chris Cathers shares his personal journey of overcoming trauma and mental health challenges as a veteran. He discusses the impact of his military service, including multiple deployments and exposure to traumatic events. Chris also opens up about his struggles with depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and unpacking past traumas, and highlights the work of his nonprofit organization, BKVF, in providing support and resources to veterans in need. The conversation with Chris Cathers from the Brothers Keeper Veterans Foundation (BKVF) covered various topics, including the mission and work of BKVF, the challenges faced by veterans, the importance of community support, and the role of faith in healing. Chris has found purpose in helping other veterans. The conversation also touched on the upcoming gala event and the impact it has on the community. Overall, the conversation highlighted the resilience and determination of veterans and the importance of coming together to support and uplift one another.
00:00
Introduction and Warning
02:34
Seth's Upbringing and Relationship with His Father
08:06
Joining the Military and Challenges in Training
19:30
The Mental and Physical Challenges of Selection
28:05
Mindset and Lessons Learned
35:25
Street Fight and Humility
37:08
Unconventional Warfare: Tacticians and Street Fighters
45:30
First Firefight and Deployments
57:07
Africa: Environmental Hazards
01:06:26
Struggles with Mental Health and Loss
01:13:47
Finding Purpose in Helping Other Veterans
01:21:14
Taking Control of Mental Health
01:26:38
The Impact of Trauma on Mental Health
01:36:16
The Absurdity of War and Its Aftermath
01:44:18
Supporting Veterans through BKVF
01:47
Supporting Veterans: The Mission of Brothers Keeper Veterans Foundation
19:12
The Power of Community: Coming Together to Help Veterans
38:12
Faith and Healing: A Personal Journey
53:04
The Impact of the Gala Event: Bringing the Community Together
01:09:10
Resilience and Determination: The Strength of Veterans
01:27:08
Conclusion