BeTempered Episode 49 - Faith After Firefights: Retired Colonel George Glaze on Trauma and Transformation

When retired Army Colonel George Glaze rolls up his sleeves to help troubled youth through horse therapy or counsel police officers as a chaplain, he's drawing from a lifetime of hard-earned wisdom. In a powerful conversation with hosts Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr, Colonel Glaze opens up about his journey—from leading troops through the streets of Baghdad to guiding his congregation at Beach Grove Church of the Brethren.With raw honesty, Colonel Glaze recounts the emotional toll of delivering 23 casualty notifications to families of fallen soldiers. “A mom crying in Spanish is a mom crying,” he reflects—capturing the universal language of grief that knows no boundaries. His words connect deeply, whether or not you've worn a uniform.What makes this episode stand out is Colonel Glaze’s ability to blend battlefield leadership with deep vulnerability. He shares the moment his own healing journey began: after losing his temper at a bus driver in front of his family, he realized he needed help. It’s a powerful gateway into a broader discussion about PTSD and the ongoing mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders.Listeners will also be moved by his tribute to his wife Valerie, who attended over 100 memorial services while raising their children alone during his deployments. Her quiet strength and resilience shine as a reminder of the emotional weight service families often carry behind the scenes.From soldier to pastor, equine therapist to police chaplain, Colonel Glaze's story is a testament to the power of faith, service, and transformation. “In loving one another, you're loving God,” he says—a simple yet profound truth at the heart of his life’s work.Have you ever wondered how true warriors carry their invisible scars? Join Dan Schmidt and Ben Spahr for an unforgettable conversation with Colonel George Glaze, as he shares wisdom on processing trauma, finding purpose, and turning pain into healing for others.Send us Fan MailSupport the show