EPISODE · Dec 8, 2025 · 1H 1M
#13 Jess Knutson
from Blue Yonder · host jacobpeeterse
In one of the most raw and honest Blue Yonder conversations yet, Jess Knutson opens up about the highs of his Air Force career, the depths of post-service alcoholism and mental health struggles, and the long road to recovery and accountability. Joined by Jason Acre, the discussion shines a light on what it truly takes to rebuild when life falls apart.
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What this episode covers
Highlights: – How fatherhood, 9/11, and family pushed Jess to join the Air Force in 2002 – Lessons from Germany, deployments, and a career cut short by mental health struggles – The dark side of transition: alcoholism, PTSD, and suicidal ideation – The miracle moment that stopped a suicide attempt and sparked a second chance – How loss, faith, and self-accountability became the foundation for recovery – Hard truths about mental health in the military and why seeking help must change 📚 Resources Mentioned: – Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988 + 1 or www.veteranscrisisline.net – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs mental health programs – Book: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin – Blue Yonder resource: blueyonderpodcast.com/flightlog 📌 Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro and guest introductions 06:00 – Jess’s path to the Air Force and early career 15:00 – Deployments, family life, and the decision to leave service 22:00 – Alcoholism and mental health challenges after transition 34:00 – The 2014 suicide attempt and the turning point 40:00 – Losing parents and rebuilding through recovery 50:00 – Accountability, ownership, and lessons for other veterans 1:00:00 – Final reflections and messages of hope ✅ Subscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts 🔗 blueyonderpodcast.com 💬 Feedback or Questions? Connect with us at: 📧 [email protected] 🌐 intotheblueyonderpodcast.com
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#13 Jess Knutson
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