Ep 33. Life Outside The Military: Jason Pike

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January 22, 2024 • 33 mins

Rewrite Your Life Story Podcast

Episode 33: Out of the Uniform with Jason Pike

Leaving the military for civilian life is a big change, no matter how long you served. Figuring out your VA benefits is the first thing to tackle in this new chapter.

In this episode, we sit down with Lt. Col. Jason G. Pike, USA, Retired, who served 31 years in the United States Army as both an enlisted and officer, including nine years overseas in five countries. Jason grows up as a slow processor of information and being identified as a disabled learner, but he overcomes it, he becomes an author and achieves multiple college degrees.

Jason shares anecdotes from his military journey, including a memorable incident during a training exercise in South Korea where he almost drowned in feces but managed to seek help without disclosing the embarrassing details. Burnout and post-traumatic stress led him to retire, emphasizing the need for leaders to destigmatize mental health issues in the military.

Post-retirement, Jason wrote books to help fellow veterans navigate life outside the military, advocating for the benefits of VA resources. He discusses his struggles and emphasizes the importance of open conversations about mental health. Jason also hints at a new book on toxic leadership.

Join us in this episode and gain insights on overcoming obstacles and accessing valuable resources for personal growth and mental well-being.

Episode Highlights:

Jason's background and experience
Jason's military service
Jason's book "A Soldier Against All Odds" and his story of overcoming obstacles in the military
Jaon’s near-drowning incident in South Korea during a training exercise
Jason's decision to leave the military due to burnout and post-traumatic stress
Jason's advocacy for seeking mental health help and destigmatizing mental health issues in the military
Discussion on the budget for veterans' administration services in the United States and the existing stigma
Jason's emphasis on leadership setting an example and the importance of planning ahead and being compassionate
Jason's second book provides self-help resources for veterans navigating life outside the military through the Veterans Administration (VA)
Benefits of applying for healthcare through the VA
Jason's struggles in finding help during his own transition out of the military
Jason's plans for a new book on toxic leadership in work environments
Jason’s advice to listeners on rewriting their life stories

About Jason Pike

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jason G. Pike, a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous deployments spanning a remarkable 31-year career in the United States Army, served both as an enlisted soldier and an officer. His military service included nine years stationed overseas in five different countries, where he earned over 30 service awards and badges, surviving intense military training along the way. Despite facing challenges as a disabled learner who struggled in English and writing during his early academic years, Jason has triumphed with academic achievements, holding one Bachelor of Science degree and two master's degrees.

Pike has authored two compelling books. "A Soldier Against All Odds" chronicles his life events in a captivating storytelling format, providing a vivid portrayal of the highs and lows of a life lived in uniform. Additionally, "Out of the Uniform, Back into Civilian Life" serves as an invaluable resource for veterans, offering clear and actionable guidance to navigate the often intricate landscape of VA benefits. Through a candid account of his personal journey, Jason not only inspires audiences but also imparts valuable lessons on resilience and perseverance, demonstrating how one can overcome disadvantages and life struggles with determination and fortitude.

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