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

The Big Silence

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 Forward

Participate:

• Not Alone Challenge

Resources:

• Website: chasechewning.com
• Instagram: @chase_chewning
• Podcast: Ever Forward
• Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing
• Follow Karena Dawn on Instagram: @karenadawn
• Follow The Big Silence on Instagram: @The.Big.Silence
• Subscribe: The Big Silence YouTube Channel
• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.