#078 Ben "Doc" Askins: Beyond the Hero’s Journey Overcoming Trauma and Finding Empathy

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Ben "Doc" Askins, a former combat medic turned psychiatric physician assistant, who brings a wealth of experience in trauma therapy and unconventional healing. With nearly two decades in military medicine and a specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Ben challenges the traditional Hero’s Journey narrative and instead explores the path of the Anti-Hero—a journey that delves into the raw, real, and often messy truths of self-discovery. Through his unique insights, Ben shares how confronting trauma and embracing empathy are essential for true healing.This conversation is for anyone grappling with their own inner battles or seeking to make peace with past traumas. Together, we uncover practical steps to break free from self-deception, build meaningful connections, and find empathy not only for others but also for ourselves. Join us as we unpack a new approach to healing—one that is unfiltered, authentic, and ultimately empowering. ℹ️ About this Guest Ben "Doc" Askins is a former combat medic and psychiatric physician assistant with nearly two decades of experience in trauma care and therapy. Certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Ben blends traditional medicine with innovative approaches to healing. As the author of Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces, he challenges conventional narratives of growth, offering raw insights on trauma, empathy, and self-discovery. Through his work, Ben inspires others to confront their struggles and embrace authentic transformation.WebsiteClinical WebsiteFacebook PageYouTubeTwitterInstagramListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3B3UXKnAnti-Hero's Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces: A Warped War Memoir on the Way to Enlightenment By Ben "Doc" Askins 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Maps (MultiDisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies)The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell) by Joseph CampbellTranspersonal PsychologyDr. Stanislav "Stan" GrofCarl JungCarl Jung ShadowKarpman Drama TriangleTransactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: A Systematic Individual and Social Psychiatry by Eric BerneCatch-22 by Joseph HellerThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der KolkDefault Mode NetworkMDMASupport the show