MindFit Mentor
Conquering Trials: A Journey from Veteran to PhD with John Angell
Published: 16 January 2025 at 14:05 Europe/London
Listen on
Episode notes
Join the TRIBE
In this episode of MindFit Mentor, host Daniel Jacobsen engages in an enlightening conversation with his uncle, John Angell, a decorated military veteran and PhD holder in Homeland Security. They discuss John's harrowing experiences in the military, including a near-death encounter with hyenas in Africa and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from his time in Iraq.
John shares his challenges with PTSD, recovery journey, the transformative influence of family, and his pursuit of higher education. Highlighting the importance of perseverance, self-awareness, relationships, and mental health, John and Daniel explore how one can turn their deepest struggles into powerful messages of hope and resilience.
This episode offers profound insights into personal development and overcoming adversity to become the best version of oneself.
00:00 Introduction to MindFit Mentor
00:08 Meet John Angell: A Humble Hero
00:49 Military Stories: Hyenas in Africa
05:12 Near-Death Experiences and Injuries
05:39 Traumatic Brain Injury and Recovery
08:19 Life After the Military: Challenges and Triumphs
14:47 The Journey to Healing and Education
23:37 The Power of Relationships and Personal Growth
29:26 Overcoming PTSD and Finding Purpose
32:29 The Role of Therapy and Support Systems
37:53 Pursuing Higher Education: A Love for Math
41:29 Pursuing a Math Degree
42:02 Teaching and Perspective Shifts
43:05 Journey Through Higher Education
43:51 Balancing Life and Education
44:47 Career Transition and Current Role
47:22 Influences and Life Lessons
51:57 Philosophical Insights and Personal Growth
01:11:58 Meditation and Managing Anxiety
01:18:54 Final Thoughts and Advice
