84. Ever Forward: Ketamine Treatment, PTSD & Learning to Walk (Twice!) with Army Vet Chase Chewning

Today, we have the honor of sitting down with Chase Chewning, an Army veteran and Certified Health Coach who has turned his life's adversities into a source of strength, both for himself and for countless others. After sustaining injuries that led to bilateral reconstructive hip surgeries, Chase faced the daunting task of learning to walk again, not once, but twice! This physical struggle coincided with an immense personal loss – the passing of his father to a terminal illness. These experiences, understandably, had a profound impact on Chase's mental health. In this episode, Chase shares how he learned to pivot after these life-altering events, transitioning from military life back into civilian life, and enrolling in college at 24 to study exercise science. He  shares how becoming a health coach, supporting and inspiring others in their own healing journeys, led him to confronting trauma and pain he had pushed aside. We also explore how he overcame his struggles with PTSD, finding relief through innovative methods like psychedelic assisted psychotherapy and ketamine treatments. Chase's story is a powerful example of how one can turn adversity into a purposeful life, inspiring others through his top-ranked Health & Fitness podcast, Ever Forward Radio, and his dedication to helping others "LIVE A LIFE EVER FORWARD." Let's dive in and be inspired by Chase Chewning's incredible journey of resilience and healing.And – as always, don’t forget to check in on your friends this holiday season. In the spirit of support, I’ve teamed up with my friend Jewel again to spotlight the Not Alone Challenge throughout this often emotionally charged time of the year. Learn how you can join the fun: here.(00:03:58) Chase’s Early Life & Military Career (00:13:27) Suffering Career-Ending Injuries & The Long Road to Recovery(00:19:04) Pivoting to Health Coaching & Healing In Community(00:25:45) A Turning Point in Chase’s Mental Health Journey(00:32:11) Finding Relief through Assisted Psychedelic Psychotherapy(00:38:36) Profound Healing & Takeaways from PTSD Treatment(00:48:54) Honoring His Dad’s Legacy: Ever ForwardParticipate:Not Alone ChallengeResources:Website: chasechewning.comInstagram: @chase_chewningPodcast: Ever ForwardRead: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawnFollow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.SilenceSubscribe: The Big Silence YouTube ChannelTherapy For All: Resources for those in needDonate to The Big Silence

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Where there is darkness, there is an immense opportunity for light. The Big Silence aims to normalize conversations around mental health and empower people to turn their challenges into triumphs. Hosted by Karena Dawn – mental health advocate, wellness entrepreneur, co-founder of Tone It Up, and New York Times bestselling author – The Big Silence is creating a safe space to share our story, and for you to share yours. Like so many, Karena has experienced profound grief and trauma. Growing up with a mother diagnosed with paranoid-schizophrenia, her childhood was filled with traumatic experiences that resulted in repressed emotions of guilt, shame, depression, and eventually, a suicide attempt. Though filled with this darkness, Karena was able to find deep joy. And with The Big Silence, she's creating a space for you to find that joy, too. This podcast will feature in-depth conversations with psychologists, spiritual leaders, public figures, friends, and anyone who has been impacted by a mental health condition – either themselves, or through a family member or a friend. Suffering in silence only reinforces the stigma behind mental health issues and builds boundaries that prevent healing. Wherever you are, whatever you're going through, you have a spark of greatness inside of you. No more embarrassment, no more shame, only healing. -- A non-profit 501(c)3, The Big Silence Foundation provides resources and support to anyone directly or indirectly impacted by mental illness. 'The Big Silence' theme song was written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney. Executive Handyman, Bobby Goldstein.