In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal talk with Garrett Biss, retired Marine Corps pilot, addiction recovery coach, and TEDx speaker—to explore the unseen emotional toll of military service and the inspiring potential for post-traumatic growth.

Garrett shares his personal story of transition after retiring from the Marines, including struggles with identity loss, suicidal ideation, and the critical role that meaning, connection, and authenticity play in recovery. He offers an enlightening explanation of how trauma doesn’t just lead to suffering—but can also become the seed for transformational healing and growth.

Together, they discuss:

• The trauma of losing identity and purpose after military or first responder service

• The difference between PTSD and Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG)