EPISODE · Jun 25, 2026 · 38 MIN
Finding a New Mission: Ryan "Chief" Johnson on Veteran Healing, Purpose & Cannabis
from Let's be Blunt with Montel · host Montel Williams
#LetsBeBluntWithMontel #MontelWilliams #Veterans What happens after the uniform comes off? In this powerful episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel sits down with retired U.S. Navy Chief Ryan "Chief" Johnson to discuss the often-overlooked challenges veterans face after military service—from losing a sense of purpose to navigating chronic pain, alcohol dependence, and prescription medications. Ryan shares the deeply personal story of how cannabis became part of his own wellness journey and why it inspired him to write Strains for Pains, a practical guide designed to help patients better understand cannabis and make informed decisions about their health. The conversation explores the importance of education over misinformation, the role of peer support in veteran recovery, and why building community may be just as important as any treatment. Ryan also discusses his nonprofit, Break Stigmas, and the veteran-focused initiatives he's created to ensure that no veteran feels alone after leaving the military. Together, Montel and Ryan have an honest conversation about healing, resilience, leadership, and the power of finding a new mission in life. Whether you're a veteran, caregiver, patient, or simply interested in the evolving conversation around cannabis and wellness, this episode offers hope, practical insight, and a reminder that healing often begins with connection. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What this episode covers
#LetsBeBluntWithMontel #MontelWilliams #Veterans What happens after the uniform comes off? In this powerful episode of Let's Be Blunt with Montel, Montel sits down with retired U.S. Navy Chief Ryan "Chief" Johnson to discuss the often-overlooked challenges veterans face after military service—from losing a sense of purpose to navigating chronic pain, alcohol dependence, and prescription medications. Ryan shares the deeply personal story of how cannabis became part of his own wellness journey and why it inspired him to write Strains for Pains, a practical guide designed to help patients better understand cannabis and make informed decisions about their health. The conversation explores the importance of education over misinformation, the role of peer support in veteran recovery, and why building community may be just as important as any treatment. Ryan also discusses his nonprofit, Break Stigmas, and the veteran-focused initiatives he's created to ensure that no veteran feels alone after leaving the military. Together, Montel and Ryan have an honest conversation about healing, resilience, leadership, and the power of finding a new mission in life. Whether you're a veteran, caregiver, patient, or simply interested in the evolving conversation around cannabis and wellness, this episode offers hope, practical insight, and a reminder that healing often begins with connection.
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Finding a New Mission: Ryan "Chief" Johnson on Veteran Healing, Purpose & Cannabis
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