We had the good fortune of connecting with Philip Palmer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Philip, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
Our end goal at WarriorWOD is to provide as many veterans as possible with the recovery resources they need to overcome the struggles of post-traumatic stress (PTS). PTS is the root cause of many veterans’ struggles, including substance abuse and suicide. Every day, we lose over 20 veterans to suicide and an equal number to substance abuse-related deaths, such as kidney failure, liver failure, and overdose. This is a crisis that demands urgent and comprehensive intervention.

Our mission is to prioritize exercise, nutrition, and mentorship as prescriptions for veterans’ recovery from post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideations. By addressing the root causes of these issues, we aim to make a tangible impact on the lives of veterans and their families.

One of our primary goals is to shift the common practice of leading with pharmaceuticals and antidepressants, which often serve as gateways to substance abuse. Many antidepressants have the potential adverse effect of causing suicidal ideations, exacerbating the very issues they are meant to alleviate. Instead, we advocate for exercise to be prescribed as therapy.

Research, such as the studies conducted by the University of South Australia, supports the effectiveness of exercise in reducing PTS symptoms and improving overall mental health. This research, the largest of its kind, concluded that exercise alone is 1.5 times more impactful than antidepressants and talk therapy combined. This significant finding underscores the potential of exercise as a powerful tool in the fight against PTS.

In addition to exercise, we emphasize the importance of proper nutrition and mentorship. Good nutrition is crucial for mental and physical health, helping to stabilize mood and energy levels, and providing the necessary fuel for physical activity. Our nutrition programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of veterans, ensuring they receive the best possible support for their recovery journey.

Mentorship is the third pillar of our approach, providing veterans with the support and accountability they need to stay committed to their recovery. Our mentors, often veterans themselves, offer empathy, understanding, and guidance, helping participants navigate the challenges of overcoming PTS and substance abuse. This peer support is invaluable in creating a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for long-term recovery.

Our vision extends beyond the individual veterans we serve. We aim to change the broader approach to mental health care, setting a foundation for all communities and demographics, advocating for exercise, nutrition, and mentorship to be leading prescriptions. By demonstrating the effectiveness of our programs, we hope to help as many individuals as possible in their journey to recovery.

In conclusion, the end goal of WarriorWOD is to save lives and improve the quality of life for veterans by providing comprehensive, holistic support that addresses the root causes of their struggles. Through our innovative programs, we aim to prevent unnecessary deaths and foster a healthier, more supportive environment for our nation’s heroes. As the founder, I firmly believe that by prioritizing exercise, nutrition, and mentorship, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

What should our readers know about your business?
Absolutely, I’d be happy to share more about WarriorWOD and what sets us apart. Our mission is to prioritize exercise, nutrition, and mentorship as prescriptions for veterans’ recovery from post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideations. This holistic approach is what makes us unique and effective in addressing the root causes of these issues, providing a tangible impact on the lives of veterans and their families.

WarriorWOD stands out because we focus on the power of physical fitness, proper nutrition, and the support of a strong community. Our program is built on the belief that these elements can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD and improve overall mental health. This belief is supported by extensive research, including studies from the University of South Australia, which found that exercise alone is 1.5 times more impactful than antidepressants and talk therapy combined.

Since its inception, WarriorWOD has supported 172 veterans through the full “Exercise as a Prescription” program, with 110 participating in 2023 alone. The program has led to a 29% overall decrease in PTS symptoms. Specific improvements include avoidance (29.7%), physical and emotional reactions (30.5%), thinking and mood (32.3%), and intrusive memories (25.1%). Further, in 2023 alone, WarriorWOD’s program helped to prevent 9 veterans from taking their lives.

What I’m most proud of is the tangible difference we’ve made in the lives of over 1,000 veterans since our founding. Seeing veterans find relief and healing through our programs is incredibly rewarding. One of the most exciting aspects of our work is witnessing the transformation in our participants – their renewed sense of purpose, improved mental health, and strengthened social connections.

The journey to where we are today has not been easy. Transitioning from a military career to civilian life, especially while dealing with PTSD and a traumatic brain injury, was incredibly challenging. After my honorable discharge in 2013, I sought help from the Department of Veterans Affairs, but the standard treatment of antidepressants and talk therapy had negative effects on me. It felt like a chemical lobotomy, causing my social and occupational life to plummet.

Instead of turning to drugs or alcohol, my addiction became adrenaline, which led to over 4,000 skydives. This pursuit, while initially a coping mechanism, became a dangerous obsession. Realizing the need for a healthier alternative, I found myself at a CrossFit gym in Houston, Texas, in 2015. This gym, with its ethos of HeroWODs honoring fallen service members, provided a sense of belonging and community that was transformative. The camaraderie and support helped me wean off antidepressants within a year, proving the healing power of exercise and community.

After my recovery, I began to listen to countless individuals who attested that they found their recovery from their darkest moments in a gym, using exercise as their therapy. These stories of personal transformation and resilience reinforced my belief in the power of physical fitness as a critical component of recovery from PTS. This shared experience and the devastating loss of six veteran friends to suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic ignited our mission to combat veteran suicide and substance abuse.

From these experiences, WarriorWOD was born – a testament to the healing power of community and the unwavering spirit of service members. Our program emphasizes exercise, nutrition, and mentorship, providing veterans with the tools they need to navigate the path to recovery.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way include the importance of resilience, the power of community, and the need for a holistic approach to mental health. It’s crucial to address not just the symptoms but the root causes of PTS and suicidal ideations.

What I want the world to know about WarriorWOD is that we are committed to making a difference. We believe in the transformative power of exercise, proper nutrition, and supportive mentorship. Our goal is to provide veterans with the resources they need to overcome their struggles and lead fulfilling lives. By sharing our story and demonstrating the effectiveness of our programs, we hope to inspire broader changes in mental health care, setting a foundation for all communities and demographics to prioritize these holistic approaches.

In addition to my work with WarriorWOD, I am also the Director of Sales for Liquid Web, a global IT hosting company. Balancing both roles reflects my dedication to empowering others, whether it’s our clients at Liquid Web or the veterans we serve through WarriorWOD. Outside of work, I cherish my role as a father to my daughter Sophie and a husband to my wife Tessa. Daily exercise is a personal commitment that aligns with WarriorWOD’s mission and keeps me grounded.

In summary, WarriorWOD is not just a program; it’s a movement towards better mental health and recovery for our nation’s heroes. We are dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of our veterans and providing them with the support they need to thrive.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sure, I’d love to share how I’d show my best friend the best time in Charleston! Here’s what our week would look like:

Day 1: Arrival and Historic Charleston
We’d kick off the week exploring the Historic District. A stroll down King Street, checking out the Battery, and seeing Rainbow Row would be a great introduction. We’d swing by the Charleston City Market to check out local crafts. For dinner, we’d head to a local favorite, maybe Husk, and then enjoy some drinks with a view at The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue.

Day 2: Beach Day and BBQ
We’d spend a relaxing day at Folly Beach, enjoying the sun and waves. After a morning on the beach, we’d grab lunch at Lost Dog Cafe. For dinner, we’d definitely hit Swig and Swine for some fantastic BBQ – they’re big supporters of WarriorWOD and the food is amazing.

Day 3: History and Culture
We’d start the day with a run across the Cooper River Bridge, taking in the stunning views. Afterward, we’d have breakfast at Page’s Okra Grill in Mount Pleasant. The big agenda would be honoring those that served, spending the day at Patriots Point to tour the USS Yorktown, the Medal of Honor Museum, and the Vietnam Museum.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventure
We’d head out to the jetties for some shark fishing – always an exciting adventure. Dinner could be something casual and fun, like oysters at The Darling Oyster Bar

Day 5: Lowcountry Experience
We’d spend the day at Boone Hall Plantation, learning about its history and enjoying the scenery. Lunch could be something local and laid-back. In the evening, we’d head to Shem Creek for dinner at Saltwater Cowboys and enjoy the lively atmosphere at Red’s Ice House with some live music.

Day 6: Relaxation and Local Brews
We’d start the day with a relaxed brunch at The Park Cafe. In the afternoon, we’d visit Indigo Reef Brewing Company to enjoy some local brews.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When asked about my greatest inspiration in life, I always dedicate that title to my grandfather, a Vietnam Marine Corps Veteran, as well as my father. Throughout my early life, I watched both men demonstrate high levels of resilience and strength. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice for their country and family profoundly shaped my values and my path.

From these motivating figures, I gained an unwavering passion for serving my country and sacrificing for those I care about. Their influence instilled in me the principles of honor, courage, and commitment, which have guided me throughout my life and career.

I also found myself influenced by the incredible Marines I had the privilege to serve with. The camaraderie and support of my fellow Marines helped shape me into the individual I am today, instilling in me the importance of teamwork, leadership, and resilience. These experiences were instrumental in my development, both personally and professionally.

I have carried my love for helping others throughout my career, and this passion ultimately led to the founding of WarriorWOD. Our mission is to prioritize exercise, nutrition, and mentorship as prescriptions for veterans’ recovery from post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideations. By addressing the root causes of these issues, we aim to make a tangible impact on the lives of veterans and their families.

Additionally, I’d like to recognize the incredible support and encouragement from my family, friends, and the entire WarriorWOD community. Their belief in our mission and their unwavering support have been crucial in our journey. Together, we strive to change the broader approach to mental health care, advocating for exercise, nutrition, and mentorship to be leading prescriptions.

By demonstrating the effectiveness of our programs, we hope to help as many individuals as possible in their journey to recovery. In conclusion, I firmly believe that by prioritizing these holistic approaches, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

Website: https://warriorwod.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewarriorwod/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-palmer/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewarriorwod

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewarriorwod

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