#11 - Lieutenant Commander Ned Davis: Pilot, US Navy

Lieutenant Commander Ned Davis is a pilot with the US Navy, and currently works as an Operations Officer for a squadron called Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight (HSC-8)In this episode Ned sits down with his bartender Taylor McQuade and shares his journey through the military, from training at the Naval Academy and flying the SH-60 Seahawk, the navalized version of the Black Hawk, to becoming an instructor and department head in San Diego. He reflects on his evolving perspective on politics, the military's approach to mental health, and the challenges service members face in seeking support.The conversation covers everything from his deployments aboard amphibious assault ships to deeper topics like PTSD, trauma, and the fear of losing your job if you speak up about mental health struggles. He opens up about personal challenges, such as his ex-wife’s infidelity, and how writing, medication, and therapy became part of his healing. This episode also touches on his taekwondo career, including a near run for the 2008 Olympics, and how staying competitive and purpose-driven has shaped his mindset.He speaks candidly about the cultural differences between military and civilian approaches to mental health and how continuing to fly helicopters became his anchor through it all. He emphasizes the importance of accessing available resources without fear and offers advice to those entering the military: focus on the mission, but don’t neglect your mental health.Follow Taylor and the the podcast on Instagram: @wellness_ontherocks@taylorredmondmcquadeYou can listen to all episodes of Wellness On The Rocks on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.