Brad Lambert joins host Bob to share his powerful journey from small-town Alberta hockey kid to junior and pro enforcer, and ultimately to survivor and community pillar. Brad describes leaving home at 16, being thrust into the role of fighter, and living with constant anxiety, fear, and performance pressure while wearing a mask that everything was fine. He details the unhealthy coping of partying, addiction, and gravitating toward chaotic environments, culminating in being shot eight times in a Montreal bar. Treated more like a criminal than a victim, Brad spiraled for years in anger, self-destruction, and hopelessness. His turning point came when becoming a father and finally asking for help, entering a program that gave him tools to process trauma, manage anxiety, and let go of hate—including writing and burning a letter to the man who shot him. Brad now lives sober, supports others, and stresses that asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness.

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Bob speaks with Derek Hines, a Marine veteran, sharing his deeply personal journey through trauma, resilience, and healing. Derek discusses the impact of a strict upbringing, early struggles with mental health, and the profound effects of military service in Afghanistan—including exposure to violence, loss, and survivor’s guilt. After leaving the service, Derek faced further challenges with addiction and family disruption but eventually sought help through therapy and veterans’ support organizations. Emphasizing the significance of community, gratitude, and vulnerability, Derek highlights his work supporting fellow veterans with resources like his “Mindful Gratitude” journal and outreach initiatives. The conversation, led by Bob Wilkie, explores the stigma around discussing trauma and the power of connection, showing Derek’s growth from enduring hardship alone to finding purpose in service to others and raising his daughters.

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Greg Niwa joins me to explore the profound impact of trauma and mental health. Greg shares his remarkable journey, from growing up on a ranch to facing devastating personal losses, including the heartbreaking suicide of his son Brandon during the COVID-19 pandemic. What struck me most was Greg's incredible resilience and his commitment to turning grief into purpose by creating the Beach Project, a mental health education initiative.

We unpack the importance of vulnerability, the power of self-conversation, and the critical need for proactive mental health support. Greg's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to find meaning in the most challenging circumstances. Through our conversation, we hope to shed light on the often-overlooked emotional toll of trauma and inspire others to seek help and support.

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