What happens when a Marine veteran who has already faced the deepest corners of trauma decides to sit with Mother Ayahuasca? In this episode of I'm F.I.N.E., hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek welcome back Marine veteran and plant medicine advocate Chris James for a raw, honest, and deeply vulnerable conversation about his experience with Ayahuasca at the Pachamama Sanctuary through the Vines and Valor program.

From the hard science and indigenous history behind the "vine of the soul" to the brutal physical purges and unexpected emotional breakthroughs, Chris walks us through every step of his journey. He shares how a transformative breathwork session cracked open decade-old grief, how he navigated a terrifying first night to find a profound breakthrough on night two, and how Ayahuasca restored his ability to love his wife with his entire heart.

Whether you are curious about alternative mental health treatments for PTSD, plant medicine integration, or the power of veteran community support, this episode offers an unfiltered look into the reality of psychedelic-assisted healing.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

• What is Ayahuasca? The chemistry, indigenous roots of the Amazon, and scientific backing from institutions like Johns Hopkins.
• 14 Months Post-Ibogaine: Chris checks in on his ongoing sobriety from alcohol, mindset shifts, and emotional baseline.
• Vines and Valor & Pachamama Sanctuary: How Marine and Navy veterans are accessing fully funded retreats in Maine.
• The Reality of the Purge: Chris's tough first night—nausea, physical discomfort, and overcoming the urge to quit.
• The Power of Breathwork: How a guided breathwork session unlocked buried childhood trauma, self-love, and tears for fallen military brothers.
• Night Two Breakthrough: Becoming the music, experiencing motherly love from the medicine, and healing the subconscious wall in his marriage.
• The Secret Sauce of Integration: Why veteran group chats, weekly Zoom circles, and community support make or break the healing process.
• Advocating for Veteran Health: Local union fundraising (Local 265), sending vets to retreats, and pushing for broader legislative access to alternative therapies.

Disclaimer: What is shared in this episode is for educational and personal storytelling purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any treatment decisions.

In this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek dive deep into the psychology and execution of effective goal setting. Joined by guests Michael Murphy (Founder of Let's Ketchup) and Tim Zydek (Co-President of the Kankakee chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace), the panel discusses how to transition from broad, overwhelming aspirations to actionable, system-based habits.

The conversation covers psychological frameworks, including Edwin Locke's Goal-Setting Theory, the SMART/SMARTTER criteria, and the core principles of James Clear's Atomic Habits. Drawing from real-world leadership and nonprofit experience in community service, the hosts and guests explore how to reframe failure as constructive feedback, prevent burnout, manage personal limits, and stay focused on a core mission when motivation wanes.

Key Topics Covered

• The Psychology of Goal Setting: How target setting alters brain function, increases self-esteem, and builds momentum.
• Systems vs. Outcomes: Why focusing on repeatable systems and incremental 1% improvements leads to sustained success.
• Aspirational vs. Actionable Goals: How to break large community missions into manageable, step-by-step targets.
• Reframing Failure: Viewing setbacks as operational feedback rather than personal shortcomings.
• Self-Compassion and Leadership: Setting clear boundaries to prevent burnout in high-stress, service-oriented roles.

Featured Guests & Organizations

• Tim Zydek – Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Building beds for children in need) | shpbeds.org
• Michael Murphy – Let's Ketchup (Addressing child food scarcity in Kankakee County)

This episode of I'm F.I.N.E. dives deep into the realities of veterans’ benefits, VA disability claims, and the support systems available through Veterans Assistance Commissions (VACs). Featuring co-hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek, along with guest Karen Smietanski, a veteran service officer, the discussion breaks down how veterans can successfully navigate compensation and pension (C&P) exams, file VA claims, and access the benefits they’ve earned—often without even realizing they qualify.

Eric Peterson and Karen Smietanski share firsthand insight into how the claims process really works, common mistakes veterans make, and why telling your full story during a C&P exam is critical. Brad Stosiek helps guide the conversation through real-world experiences that highlight both the challenges and life-changing outcomes that can come from properly filed claims and strong advocacy.

The episode highlights common misconceptions about VA benefits, including the belief that only combat veterans qualify or that it’s too late to apply. Through powerful real-life stories, Karen Smietanski explains how conditions like Agent Orange exposure, degenerative joint disease, tinnitus, PTSD, and other service-connected injuries can impact veterans long after service—and how proper documentation and advocacy can change outcomes.

Listeners will also learn about key programs such as the PACT Act, Veterans Treatment Court, community care options, and mental health and substance use support services. The conversation emphasizes the importance of asking questions, seeking help from certified VSOs instead of paid “claim sharks,” and understanding how spouses and dependents may also qualify for benefits such as DIC, CHAMPVA, and pensions.

With powerful personal stories of veterans receiving life-changing back pay and ongoing compensation, Eric Peterson and Karen Smietanski highlight how VACs collaborate with nonprofits, social workers, and healthcare providers to close gaps in care. Brad Stosiek ties it all together with a focus on awareness, advocacy, and breaking down stigma around seeking help.

Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or advocate, this episode provides essential insight into VA disability claims, veteran mental health resources, and the full range of benefits available through the VA system.

In this episode of I'm F.I.N.E., Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek dive deep into the often-overlooked topic of moral injuries, exploring their impact on veterans, civilians, and anyone navigating difficult life experiences. From personal stories of loss, military experiences, and ethical dilemmas to practical insights on healing, self-love, and resilience, this episode sheds light on how humor, connection, and self-compassion can help us carry the weight of life's toughest moments.

Listeners will learn:

• What moral injuries are and how they differ from PTSD
• How veterans interpret and cope with moral injuries
• Real-life experiences highlighting moral conflict and ethical challenges
• Techniques for self-forgiveness, resilience, and emotional healing
• The importance of humor, compassion, and open conversation in mental wellness

Whether you're a veteran, mental health advocate, or simply seeking to understand and process complex emotions, this episode offers guidance, encouragement, and actionable takeaways for building a more resilient mindset.

Tune in to I'm F.I.N.E. and explore how understanding moral injuries can transform the way we approach our own challenges and support those around us.

In this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. Podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek explore the tricky world of self-sabotage and how it can quietly hold you back in life. With guests Alicia Kleinert and Corey Norton, they share actionable strategies to recognize, disrupt, and overcome self-sabotaging behaviors.

Learn how positive self-talk, morning routines, and celebrating small victories can help you break free from fear-based patterns. They also discuss practical tips for managing procrastination, reducing phone distraction, and building daily habits that boost motivation and productivity.

Plus, the hosts honor Don Ball, a mentor and veteran advocate, and highlight upcoming events like the Buddy Check 22 Golf Outing and Martino’s Octoberfest, where they’ll be sharing new merch and supporting the community.

Whether you’re struggling with negative self-talk, procrastination, or unhealthy habits, this episode provides tools to help you stop sabotaging yourself and start living your best life.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize and disrupt fear-based self-sabotage
• Harness positive self-talk to change your mindset
• Build an effective morning routine for productivity
• Celebrate small wins to stay motivated
• Reduce procrastination and phone distractions

🎧 Listen now to gain practical insights and start being truly F.I.N.E. about self-sabotage.

In this episode of the I’m F.I.N.E. Podcast, hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek sit down with Alicia Kleinert and Corey Norton for a heartfelt conversation on aging gracefully—and what it really means to grow older with strength, vulnerability, and resilience.

Together, they explore how aging impacts mental health, relationships, and identity, especially for caregivers, veterans, and first responders. Alicia brings her perspective on supporting seniors and caregivers through life’s transitions, while Corey shares the lessons he’s learned working with first responder and veteran communities who are navigating trauma and the passage of time.

The discussion highlights how unprocessed emotions, family dynamics, and cultural expectations around masculinity affect the way we experience aging. From finding purpose in later seasons of life to embracing vulnerability as a strength, this episode sheds light on how to face aging with dignity, compassion, and grace.

👉 What you’ll take away from this episode:

• How to embrace aging as a process of growth, not decline
• The role of caregivers in helping loved ones age gracefully
• Why vulnerability is key to resilience in later stages of life
• How trauma and suppressed emotions affect the way we age
• Practical wisdom for finding meaning and purpose at any age

If you’re a caregiver, a veteran, a first responder, or simply navigating your own aging journey, this conversation will inspire you to see growing older not as an ending—but as a new chapter filled with wisdom, connection, and possibility.

On this episode of "I'm F.I.N.E.," host Eric confronts his skepticism surrounding hypnotherapy, while co-host Brad shares why he's already a believer. Joined by guest Brandon Ringler, a certified hypnotherapist from Better Results Hypnotherapy, they unpack the myths and discover the powerful reality of hypnosis as a tool for mental wellness. From debunking the "you're getting sleepy" cliches to sharing profound personal breakthroughs, this episode makes a compelling case for being open to new forms of therapy.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• What Hypnosis Really Is: A state of focused attention and deep relaxation, not mind control.
• The Science Behind It: How shifting to theta brainwaves allows for reprogramming beliefs and creating decisive change.
• Myth-Busting: Why you can't be made to do something against your will and how it's actually a way of reclaiming personal control.
• Therapeutic Benefits: How hypnotherapy can be a complementary treatment for PTSD, anxiety, phobias, smoking cessation, and improving self-esteem.
• A Guided Exercise: Brandon leads a trauma-safe relaxation exercise live on air that you can use to find calm and peace.
• Personal Stories: Brad shares his powerful and emotional experiences using hypnosis to start his weight-loss journey and find closure after his father's passing.

Guest Information

• Brandon Ringler, Certified Hypnotherapist
• Business: Better Results Hypnotherapy
• Website: BetterResultsHypnotherapy.com
• Special Offer for Listeners: Mention the "I'm F.I.N.E." podcast to get your first session half off!
• Personal Training: Find Brandon at Fitness Premier in Manteno, IL.

In this powerful follow-up episode, Eric and Brad continue their conversation with Chris James, a veteran who shares his deeply personal and transformative journey through psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Chris opens up about confronting generations of trauma, the sacredness of the medicine, and the intense preparation it took to face his inner battles. They discuss the hope found in healing, the importance of respect and openness when exploring alternative treatments, and how organizations like Ambeo Life and Balanced Veterans Network are helping veterans find new paths to recovery.

You’ll hear raw reflections on powerful experiences, including touching moments of emotional breakthrough and spiritual reconciliation. The conversation also touches on recent milestones, like Texas dedicating $50 million toward clinical research on Ibogaine for veterans — signaling growing recognition for these therapies.

This episode is a testament to courage, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of mental health treatment for those who’ve served. If you’ve been curious or hesitant about psychedelic therapy, Chris’s story might offer new insight and hope.

Note: Part One of this two-part series is already available.

In this powerful first part of a two-episode series, Chris James returns to share the emotional journey that led him to pursue psychedelic treatment in Mexico. From childhood trauma and military service to profound personal losses and struggles with alcohol, Chris opens up about the moments that brought him to the edge—and the decision that changed everything. His story is raw, honest, and deeply human.

Be sure to follow us so you don’t miss Part 2, where Chris details his experience with psychedelic medicine and the healing that followed.

Co-hosts Eric and Brad welcome Nick from Explosive Customz to talk cars, custom builds, and the surprising mental health benefits of working in the garage. They also preview Heroes, OGs & Hot Rods, an upcoming event where strongmen, food trucks, and high-powered vehicles collide. Nick shares why wrenching on rides is more than just a hobby—it's therapy.

Join Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek on this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. Podcast, along with special guests Adrienne MacQueen and Robin Senesac, to find out what it's like to be a veteran that never saw combat. There is stigma attached to veterans who never experienced battle and it can make some feel unworthy of their time in service. In this episode you'll learn that this statement is simply not true. You'll also learn some tips on how to combat these underlying feelings. Every person who has served this country is worthy of being called a "Veteran" regardless if they saw combat or not.

I'm F.I.N.E. is a production of Project Headspace and Timing, a nonprofit organization who helps promote positive mental health practices to our nation’s veterans by working to unify them with their communities, nature, and themselves. Learn more at projectheadspaceandtiming.org

Welcome back to all our F.I.N.E. Family and thank you for tuning into another wild and unfiltered episode of the 172nd most listened to mental health podcast in Cambodia!

On today’s episode, the boys are taking a break from the heavy stuff and inviting you along for a little “mandatory fun.” Brad and Eric dive deep into the weird and wonderful world of military slang, translating gruntspeak for our civilian counterparts and sharing hilarious stories from their own days in uniform (and from some of their P.H.a.T. Family, too). Ever wondered what a Blue Falcon is, or why the Army can’t stop saying “hooah”? You’re about to find out. Plus, the guys cover how the military wages war on your common sense, why you never want to be left alone with the “good idea fairy,” and what happens when you mix a bunch of bored veterans with a surplus of garbage cans and zero supervision.

Tune in for laughs, learning, and a reminder that sometimes, finding joy in the chaos is the best kind of therapy. Huge thanks to our episode sponsor, tattoo artist Sarah Jane—make sure to hit her up for your next piece of ink!

Sarah Jane:

🌐 https://sarahjanezowtattoos.my.canva.site/ 

📖 https://www.facebook.com/sarahjane.zow.tattoos  

📷 https://www.instagram.com/sarahjane.zow.tattoos

Like, share, subscribe, and enjoy a break from being freaked out, insecure, neurotic, and emotional. This week, we’re all about having a little mandatory fun!

Welcome to all of our F.I.N.E. Family and thank you for tuning into another episode of your favorite laid-back mental health podcast!

In today's episode, Brad and Eric take you on an ink-filled adventure into the world of tattoos with guests Sarah Jane and Caro Trzzy from Art and Sol Tattoo Studio. Delve into the deep military connection with tattoos, uncover the science behind tattoos and mental health, and explore the rich history of tattooing. Our guests share personal stories and professional insights that illustrate how tattoos can be both therapeutic and transformative. Whether you're a tattoo veteran or an ink novice, there's something in this episode for everyone interested in the artistry and emotional depth of tattoos.

And a huge thank you to our sponsor, Sarah Jane Tattoos! For your next tattoo, check out their incredible work at Art and Sol Studio, or visit them online at:

www.artsolstudio.com

Get ready to embrace your inner ink enthusiast!

Sarah Jane:

🌐 https://sarahjanezowtattoos.my.canva.site/ 

📖 https://www.facebook.com/sarahjane.zow.tattoos  

📷 https://www.instagram.com/sarahjane.zow.tattoos

Caro:

www.GypsyWarriorTribe.com

Instagram: Karotrzzytattoos 

Facebook: Karofine Trzzy

In today's heartfelt episode, Eric flies solo as co-host Brad enjoys some time on the slopes with fellow veterans. Eric is joined by guests Fawn Hendershott and Katie Canada from Uplifted Care to dive deep into a topic that, while difficult, is incredibly important: end-of-life care. Together, they explore what hospice care is, common misconceptions, and the profound emotional and psychological support it offers both patients and their families. Eric shares his personal journey with hospice care, providing insight into the invaluable assistance and compassion he received during his own mother's end-of-life journey. This episode sheds light on redefining hospice care and aims to ease the fears surrounding it, showing how embracing these services can lead to a more peaceful end-of-life experience.

And a huge THANK YOU to our listeners: thank you for being part of our journey. If you have your own story about hospice care to share, connect with us on our Facebook page or Project Headspace and Timing's website. Until next time, we hope this episode helps you go from being freaked out, insecure, neurotic, and emotional to truly being F.I.N.E. about redefining hospice care!

In this eye-opening episode of The I’m F.I.N.E. Podcast, Eric and Brad delve into the psychology of cults and the power of groupthink. They explore how individuals can be drawn into dangerous ideologies, the psychological tactics used to manipulate members, and how group dynamics can shape behavior. With personal insights and thought-provoking discussions, they unpack the complexities of these phenomena and how to recognize the signs of unhealthy group influence.

Welcome to all of our F.I.N.E. Family and thank you for tuning into another episode of the 172nd most listened to mental health podcast in Cambodia!

On today's episode, Eric and Brad dive deep into the world of female veterans with their special guests, Marine Corps retired Gunnery Sergeant Kristen Rubio and Marine Corps Corporal Robin Brooks. Together, they unveil the unique challenges faced by women in the military, from dealing with misconceptions to navigating the complexities of mental health post-service. We tackle serious topics like military sexual trauma and the support system that's needed within the veteran community. The conversation sheds light on what it means to be a sister in arms and how male veterans can be better allies.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the brave female veterans for sharing their stories. This episode is a crucial listen for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of female military experience and how we can all work together to foster a more inclusive veteran community.

In this episode of I'm F.I.N.E., co-hosts Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek welcome special guest Melanie McCummiskey to discuss the art of navigating challenging conversations. Drawing on their own experiences, they explore techniques to approach tough topics with confidence and empathy. Melanie also shares insights into her work with Veiled Valor, a female veteran outreach group, and how their initiatives provide meaningful support in the community. Tune in to learn how to go from feeling freaked out, insecure, neurotic, and emotional to truly being fine about having tough conversations.

In this episode of the I'm F.I.N.E. podcast, Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek dive deep into the challenges of perfectionism during the holiday season. They explore how striving for perfection can steal the joy of the holidays and share practical tips for embracing imperfection. With real-life anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, they discuss how letting go of unrealistic expectations can lead to a more relaxed, meaningful holiday season. Join them for an insightful conversation on how to make this holiday season perfectly imperfect.

In this special Veterans Day episode of I’m F.I.N.E., Eric Peterson and Brad Stosiek honor the courageous journeys of our nation's heroes by sharing inspiring veteran stories. They delve into the challenges of navigating disability benefits, the importance of self-advocacy, and why prioritizing self-care is far from selfish.

Brad also reflects on his personal transformation through the 75 Hard challenge, demonstrating the power of discipline and self-love. With a blend of humor, heartfelt advice, and uplifting stories, this episode celebrates the resilience and bravery of veterans everywhere.

Happy Veterans Day from I’m F.I.N.E.!

In this episode, co-hosts Brad Stosiek and Eric Peterson dive into the profound connection between veterans and service dogs. Joined by guest David and his service dog Diesel, they explore the role of service dogs in improving mental health, the intensive training involved, and the importance of ongoing support. David shares his personal experience, offering insight into the bond with his dog and valuable advice for veterans seeking service dogs. They also discuss various organizations that provide assistance, debunk service dog certification myths, and highlight the impact of consistent training. Tune in to learn how service dogs can transform lives and foster resilience.