Hi all, my name is Alex De La Campa. I am 27 years old and I am now a retired veteran of the United States Navy. I spent 4 years in Naval special warfare and in 2012 while on active duty I was involved in an accident that resulted not only in the loss of physical but mental and cognitive capabilities. A severe injury to my inner ear and a TBI (traumatic brain injury) left me with little to do but spend a painfully slow 14 month recovery with things like: relearning how to walk in straight lines, closing my eyes without losing proprioception, bed ridden with migraines and neurological impairments. I wasn’t prepared for my time in the military to end so abruptly, I loved my job so when it was time for me to move on I had nothing really to move on to. This transition brought with it it’s own set of unique challenges and up until that point I had always defined myself on my ability to not only meet a challenge but dominate the opportunity to overcome an obstacle. These challenges were different–they are different— and I fight them every day, they continue to challenge me when I least expect it and am most unprepared. I spent a lot of time wringing bottles of Jameson dry and asking myself if I was worth the effort. I’m currently a sociology Major set to graduate in 2016, this is something I didn’t plan on doing before I joined and something I didn’t think I would be able to do after my injury. I am back in the gym and am luckily under the advisement of Dr. Theresa Larson, I have a redefined view on fitness, health and the amazingly resilient structure that is the human body.
What I have come to understand about myself and my one trait that I used to admire, but that I had seemed to loose after my injury and the one I had always defined myself by: My mental fortitude, I found that ability for perseverance and self talk, has actually been the one trait that has gotten me through. So its nice to know I still got the goods. I am still a sucker for being able to fly.
I had the awesome opportunity to be a guest on Stephs “Harder to Kill” radio which was not only a rewarding experience, but gave me the chance to connect with I had heard and read so much about, but also decide instantaneously I had to be friends with her.
-Dr. T
Steph Gaudreau combines a formal education in biology / human physiology (BS Biology—Human Physiology), 12 years of science teaching experience (MA—Education and National Board Certification), holistic nutrition training (Certified Holistic Nutrition Practitioner), and an unabashed love of tasty food (human with taste buds) on her blogs, StupidEasyPaleo.com and StephGaudreau.com.
Steph’s mission is to spread the word about how to make simple, tasty recipes to help people in their quests to just eat real food. She wrote the best-seller The Paleo Athlete: A Beginner’s Guide to Real Food for Performance in 2014, and her award-winning book, The Performance Paleo Cookbook: Recipes for Eating Better, Getting Stronger & Gaining the Competitive Edge (Page Street Publishing, 2015).
Steph’s recently taken to the airwaves with her chart-topping podcast, Harder to Kill Radio, where she interviews experts in fitness, nutrition and mindset about how to build unbreakable humans.
She lives in San Diego with the loves of her life, her Scottish husband Z and her cat Ellie. When she’s not lifting heavy stuff, you can find her tending to her beehive, standing on the dining room table to get the perfect food photo shot, and reading nerdy science books.
Name and a little about WHO you are!
I’m Steph Gaudreau, and I spend my days coaching others how eat healthy and get stronger. That’s the one sentence summary of what I do, but in reality my interests span everything from beekeeping to food photography, podcasting to writing, and everything in between.
I grew up in Massachusetts and ended up living in San Diego eleven years ago. A twelve year career as a high school science teacher left me feeling like there was a bigger world to teach outside the four walls of the classroom, so in 2013 I left to blaze my own trail and start my own business. I turned my hobby blog, Stupid Easy Paleo, into a platform where I educate people about healthy eating and inspire them to make the process as simple—and painless—as possible.
Sports and competing have always been a big part of my life, and I’ve dabbled in everything from tae kwon do to soccer to mountain biking. Five years ago, I found the barbell, and it’s changed my life. Now I train and compete (and coach) in the sport of Olympic weightlifting. There’s nothing like strong feels.
Warrior Story about how you used your inner Warrior to survive, adapt and overcome, and how it gave you perspective on life.
Back in 2011, I was doing a race called Vision Quest for the second time. It’s a grueling event…56+ miles long with over 12,000 feet of climbing over rough terrain. I’d trained my butt off and was so excited to crush it, having improved my fitness and strength since my first Vision Quest three years prior.
Five miles into the race, as the sun began to light the canyon, I started to experience overwhelming back pain. I kept riding on, but every pedal stroke was killing me. Every ten feet, I thought about turning around and pulling the plug on the whole thing considering I expected to have another 8+ hours on the bike.
Somehow, I willed myself forward. While I was never in harm’s way and it wasn’t a life or death situation, I battled with my own mind for hours and hours. I knew that if I believed I could go on, my legs would follow suit.
It was a long day on the bike, a hair over 8 hours when it was all said and done, but I crossed the finish line. I’ve done dozens of races, but that one stands out as a defining event in my life. From then on, I knew that I could rely on the strength of my mind to get me through just about anything.
What is one trait you most admire about you (Your inner warrior)?
Gosh, I think I’d have to say that I’m hard-working. If you give me a job to do, I will get it done, and I’ve earned the nickname “workhorse” because of it. I know that could be seen in a negative way, like I get sucked into the hustle, but in reality I’m highly protective of my health and wellness as a business owner. That hard-working side of me translates into consistency and patience. I’ve never been really naturally gifted at anything, but I’m able to keep working at things until I develop some pretty decent skills. It’s not magic. It’s not genetic. It’s something all of us are capable of if we put our minds to it.
What kind of special power would you like to have?
This is so tough, but if we’re talking superhero type stuff, I’d have to say the power to fly. If we’re speaking a little more pragmatically, I’d say the power to convince every woman I meet to give strength training a try. Sure, the physical benefits are wonderful, but it’s so mentally and emotionally powerful. The confidence it builds spills over into all aspects of one’s life.
I am Kevin P. Justice. Born 4 Nov 1969 in Roanoke, VA. I had a good childhood, take the Appalachian Mountains with me wherever I go and when I smell fresh air, it reminds me of home.
I joined the Navy in 1994, and remember vividly the feeling of excitement of a new chapter in my life. I spent most of this past summer in and out of hospitals and was diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) due to an injury I received while deployed.
Associated with the TBI, I have also been diagnosed with Trauma Related, Cognitive and Anxiety Disorders, all not to overshadow sometimes funny but very frustrating balance issues, a pesky speech impediment and headaches… Having spent most of my career at sea and doing what Sailors do, I have had my share of injuries, but nothing like this. Questioning your thoughts is not unusual, but constantly about most everything that goes through your mind is not my ideal cognitive process…
I have endured/enjoyed many deployments over the years. Thankful for the wonderful and life-long friends that I have made and can think of few better callings in life. Sacrifice is part of the deal and I have had my share. None to worry though as I have air in my lungs, moving forward as best I am able, and thankful for the precious things in my life…
What the future holds: Medical separation from the Navy I love and don’t want to leave, questions about how to sustain myself on the “outside” and a new chapter in the journey…All the things that won’t matter much in 20 years and I try and keep that outlook.
Regarding a trait that I admire about myself: My desire. My desire to be the best Papa I can be to my boys, my desire of self-healing (clarification: focus on myself by the use of my own and other’s knowledge, caring and experience to heal), and my desire to spread good things to those around me whether it is with a smile, kind words or effort that drains me.
Now for a superpower I would like to have. Superman was always my favorite, but I like shorts too much. Don’t remember him ever wearing shorts… Maybe being like Spiderman cause of his agility, but at 46, doubt there is a spider alive that can bridge that gap. How about being able to have a sphere of influence that allows others around me to be happy or in some kind manner? Geessshhh, I think I am on to something here. Imagine people void of pessimism, negativity, greed and envy. What a life that would be. Yep, I pick that!
About “Getting quiet”: I met Dr. Theresa Larson through the adaptive sports program run by Balboa hospital. They have an amazing program that help people get back into shape, physically as well as mentally. I went to a Crossfit workout at Fathom Crossfit where she (and the owner Alec Zirkenbach) showed true caring for my well-being and have enhanced my inner-focus. She mentioned this thing about being quiet. I was interested. After some instruction, I followed her prescribed path. What a wonderful journey it took me on. Simply sitting in my chair and taking care of me for a bit of time during each day. This kind of focus, commitment and understanding is not in our everyday culture. However, I recommend that you take it, make it yours and it will provide benefits that you can not measure by a slide rule, lab results or percentage. Only you know you the best. Thanks doc for reminding me that our journey needs to be simpler, better focused and have valued clarity 🙂
My closing thoughts (and this might get towards the deep end of the shallow part of the pool so get on your favorite animal decorated arm-floaties)…
We all have physical and/or mental challenges that face us often. You may not be able to stop them and they may be small or large in comparison to the ones of the person next to you. However, I try not to think of them in those terms, but rather of my perception of what it will take me to overcome and/or adapt to them. That to me, is the measurement of effort required for a given challenge. My simple terms: Do I need a shovel, backhoe or explosives to get to the desired depth of my perception needed to overcome the challenge…
Some of the ways I work around or through challenges:
-Breathe deep and try to sustain forward momentum
-The direction travelled may not be straight, that’s ok (angles give better perspective)
-Small goals create more success than trying to squint at the finish line
-Your patience will be tested. This is not pass/fail, it is an opportunity to to improve it
-The past is just that, so leave it be
-Asking/accepting help shows strength, courage and almost always is a must
-Professionals, friends, and family can provide guidance and support, but it is the belief within you that WILL allow you to get better
Blayne Smith is the Executive Director of Team Red, White, and Blue. As Team RWB’s first employee, he has played a key role the development, growth, and operation of the organization. Blayne works closely with board members, staff, and volunteer leaders to ensure the delivery of excellent veteran programs. He provides strategic guidance in addition to building and managing critical partnerships.
Blayne served as an officer in the United States Army from 2001-2010. Upon graduating from West Point, he initially joined the First Cavalry Division as a tank platoon leader and later as a reconnaissance platoon leader. He spent most of 2004 in Iraq and led more than 200 combat patrols. He then attended the Special Forces Qualification Course and commanded a detachment of Green Berets in the 3rd Special Forces Group. Blayne led joint and inter-agency operations both domestically and during a combat tour in southern Afghanistan.
Smith earned a BS in Economics from the US Military Academy as well as an MBA from the University of Florida. He has completed numerous military leadership courses and was the Distinguished Honor Graduate of the Army Ranger School.
Blayne is a fitness enthusiast and avid athlete, and regular competes in running, triathlon, and CrossFit. He lives in Tampa, Florida with his family.
The warrior accepts the call and walks the long, arduous path of becoming Truth, Justice, and Wisdom.
The warrior questions all authority and all conventional wisdom that is spoken in the course of his life.
The warrior seeks to understand and explore all worldviews, all religions, all cultures, all histories and all legacies of truth to understand fully what he is, his nature and his essence.
The warrior knows what he must contribute; he leaves generations to come with strong, universal, and life-affirming foundations.
The warrior explores the interior and the exterior worlds, integrating and harmonizing both.
The warrior takes an eternal perspective.
The warrior loves as fully as possible; this loves comes from his soul; this love is light and truth united.
The warrior creates lasting communities of truth-seekers; the aim is Freedom.
The warrior knows suffering; his virtue is compassion.
The warrior knows love as both intimacy and rapture.
The warrior enters darkness with the soul’s light.
The warrior loves chaos; chaos initiates the transformation.
The warrior is a scholar of living; his being becomes an instrument of Spirit.
The warrior walks with loneliness; though he is never alone.
The warrior heals and expands the gentleness of his heart.
The warrior lives in the mystery; the warrior goes into the abyss of truth; the warrior lives in faith; the warrior is a testament of Spirit.
The warrior knows he is a creature; the Creator made his spirit and being.
The warrior seeks union of the soul with Spirit; the warrior knows only by crossing the purgative, illuminate, and unitive gates can he achieve this union; the warrior devotes his life to this aim.
Lastly, the warrior looks you in the eyes, sees your soul, and reminds you, all souls are called to become the living Light and Truth Itself; expressed here and now as Love, Goodness, and Beauty.
About Ryan:
RYAN MATTHEW KRUPA attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, on a Navy Reserve Officer Training (NROTC) Scholarship and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs, with a minor in Naval Science. Upon graduation, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. He served as a Global Logistics Officer for three years, completing a two-year assignment in Japan. He received two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medals for exemplary leadership. He was promoted to Captain before leaving active duty.
After the Marine Corps, he worked for KPMG Consulting and Deloitte Consulting. At KPMG Consulting he specialized in Program Management and Risk Management. At Deloitte Consulting he specialized in Human Capital Consulting.
He also spent two years at the Center for Creative Leadership, where he studied the leadership development industry, participated in numerous leadership development programs, and built strategic relationships with Google, Starbucks, and Microsoft.
After a decade of military and professional experience, he co-founded MOSAIC, a center for leadership and human development.
His calling, and what he’s most passionate about, is working with warriors by providing leadership trainings to U.S. Special Operations Units. His aim is to produce leaders with the ability to uplift consciousness, unleash potentials, and awaken souls. His mission is to serve as a guardian while leaders explore the stages of human development.
To prepare for this work, he earned a Master Degree in Global Leadership from the University of San Diego. He has completed wide range of trainings in leadership development, human development, and spiritual development, resulting in over 3,000 hours of training. He has become a Leadership, Yoga, Meditation, and Reiki Practitioner with extensive experience creating and delivering cutting edge development intensives. He’s lived abroad for over two years and has traveled to over 25 countries. His endurance events include summiting Mt. Rainier, a Marathon, and 6 mile swim.
• Chappie Hunter
– Husband and Father to 8y/o son
– Live in Alpine, CA
• 22 year veteran of the San Diego Police Department
– 14 years patrol w/ collateral duties as a Field Training Officer, SWAT Officer, SWAT Sniper
– 8 years detective working Human Trafficking, Sex Crimes and Narcotics
• Owner / Coach at Alpine Ranch CrossFit
– CFL1, CF Weightlifting, & CF Law Enforcement Certs
• Came back Full Duty to SDPD 1 year and 29 days post accident.
What is one trait you most admire about you (Your inner warrior)
• I am NOT afraid to fail! In fact, I strive for failure. If I strive to be the best husband, the best father , the best coach, and the best athlete I have to push myself to the limit. Occasionally I will fail at each. Instead of giving up and regressing I face that failure and find a way to be better.
What kind of special power would you like to have
• The power to heal. This may sound unmanly, but like the hair of Rapunzel I’d love to have the ability to heal people’s wounds with a single touch. I don’t want anyone to have to go through the physical and especially mental/emotional aspect of what I have endured. Do I think I am a better man now than I was before my accident? Yes! However, this doesn’t mean that I don’t wish to go back to that day I lost my leg and pick a different road home to save myself and my family the pain we endured.
The Spiritual Warrior
