Green Beret Michael Carmichael on Veteran Suicide, PTSD, Military Transition & the Mission Behind Check A Vet

What happens when the mission ends—but the hardest battle is just beginning? In this powerful episode of The MisFitNation, host Jake welcomes Chief Warrant Officer 4 (Ret.) Michael Carmichael, a retired U.S. Army Green Beret with 26 years of service, including 22 years in Special Forces and 10 combat deployments across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and the Middle East. After retiring from one of America's most elite military units, Michael faced an enemy he never expected: isolation, loss of purpose, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Instead of surrendering to that battle, he founded Check A Vet, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing veteran suicide through community, accountability, education, and meaningful human connection. Together, Jake and Michael discuss: • Life inside the U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Berets) • The difficult transition from military service to civilian life • PTSD, moral injury, and the invisible wounds of war • Why loneliness is one of the greatest threats facing veterans today • The reality behind veteran suicide statistics • Leadership lessons forged in combat and carried into everyday life • How families, friends, and civilians can recognize warning signs and help • Why simply checking on someone can save a life This episode is an honest conversation about resilience, purpose, service, and hope. Whether you're a veteran, active-duty service member, first responder, military family member, or someone who wants to better understand the challenges facing those who served, this discussion offers insight that could make a lasting impact. If this episode resonates with you, please follow The MisFitNation, leave a five-star review, and share this conversation with someone who needs to hear it. Remember: No veteran should ever fight alone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices