The “echo chamber” of the American military expands my own
When echo chambers collide you get the best conversation! I sat down with Justin Cauthen, a man with 20 years of military service and five combat tours to his credit - not to mention leadership roles in situations and countries where hostility is often the norm. His story is powerful. And so is his heart.
We talked about things that matter deeply—PTSD, suicide, the ripple effect trauma has across professions, the toll military life takes on spouses and kids. Justin shared with such humility and vulnerability. One of the things he said that struck me most was this: trauma radiates. And it does—it moves through people, relationships, even whole communities. And this is experienced by many - not just those associated with the military. BUT, there is a flip side! Healing also has a ripple effect.
This conversation is also about “assuming noble intent” - as Justin puts it - lowering our defenses, asking the hard questions, and holding space for someone else's truth. And let me tell you, Justin showed up for this in a big way. We discussed the impact of military service on personal integrity and the importance of grace and understanding in supporting veterans during their transition to civilian life.
I walked away changed. And I believe you will, too. Join the conversation…
When echo chambers collide you get the best conversation! I sat down with Justin Cauthen, a man with 20 years of military service and five combat tours to his credit - not to mention leadership roles in situations and countries where hostility is often the norm. His story is powerful. And so is his heart.
We talked about things that matter deeply—PTSD, suicide, the ripple effect trauma has across professions, the toll military life takes on spouses and kids. Justin shared with such humility and vulnerability. One of the things he said that struck me most was this: trauma radiates. And it does—it moves through people, relationships, even whole communities. And this is experienced by many - not just those associated with the military. BUT, there is a flip side! Healing also has a ripple effect.
This conversation is also about “assuming noble intent” - as Justin puts it - lowering our defenses, asking the hard questions, and holding space for someone else's truth. And let me tell you, Justin showed up for this in a big way. We discussed the impact of military service on personal integrity and the importance of grace and understanding in supporting veterans during their transition to civilian life.
I walked away changed. And I believe you will, too. Join the conversation…
Guest Bio:
With over two decades of service in the United States Army and healthcare, I am beginning the transition to the civilian workforce. This is NOT an easy transition for anyone who starts into a culture such as the military at the age of 17 or 18.
My military career began as a healthcare specialist overseeing the night shift EMT team, expanded into higher-level leadership, leadership instruction, senior advisory roles, and aeromedical evacuation management, and will end with my current senior position as the Executive Clinical Director of Evans Army Community Hospital.
With an extensive background in military healthcare and a focus on healthcare innovation and project management, my tenure at Evans Army Community Hospital has been marked by the advancement of medical facilities and services for a vast beneficiary community. At the helm of a 2,700-member team, we've fostered innovation and optimized resources in a dynamic healthcare environment.
I have had the honor of leading troops in the far east and southwest of Asia as well as other regions. I am a Flight Medic by trade, but have had the privilege as serving in a myriad of rolls. Most notably was an Advisor to the Ministries of Health for the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan as well as Logistics Command to the Afghan Army. It was here, in Kabul from 2020-2021 that I learned the importance of assuming intent and the importance of recognizing the nobility in each of us, that we are ALL doing the best we can; with what we have, from the experiences we have had and the resources life have given us.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justin.cauthen?igsh=dmZ6azJicXEwb3Jr&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18fNhfrPuu/?mibextid=wwXIfr
About Jen Oliver:
I pursue and create environments where we converse on the REAL stuff that changes us. I’m designed to bring others on my personal journey with honest admissions to help us all transform - that’s my sweetspot and I speak, lead, and write from that space.
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