How to Overcome Loss of Identity with Garret Biss-Ep 44

Have you ever experienced a transition in your life, that took a piece of your identity away? That is an unfortunate thing that a lot of veterans go through. This transition is a main speaking point between Garret Biss and myself, as we both experienced that rough transition.

Garret Biss is a retired Marine Corps Pilot, addiction recovery coach, and TEDx Speaker. Post-retirement in 2015, Garret confronted challenges common among veterans: anxiety, depression, and a sense of displacement. Turning to alcohol as a crutch, it wasn't until suicidal ideation took hold that he sought change. Rather than traditional addiction treatments, Garret's path was shaped by mentoring that emphasized self-worth, rediscovering identity, and tapping into inherent strengths. This approach not only alleviated his addictive behaviors but also reignited his passion for life.

Garret's transformative experience sparked his commitment to assisting others with recovery tools grounded in positivity and personal strengths. He often remarks that while numerous resources aid individuals in emerging from their darkest moments, he aspires to propel them even further – toward their highest potential.

In 2017, he co-founded an addiction recovery residence in North Carolina, serving as an interim program director, executive director, and former board president, Garret has provided critical leadership for the past six years. Additionally, Garret crafted a recovery program and curriculum deeply rooted in positive psychology and the principles of human flourishing. Shifting his attention exclusively to veterans resonates deeply with Garret. Acutely aware of the hurdles they face, he is driven to ensure that their potential isn't overshadowed by emotional turmoil or addiction. Developed by Garret, ValiantPath™️, is tailored specifically for veterans, blending group coaching, one-on-one emotional processing, and evidence-based recovery methods.

A graduate of the Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland and holding a master's from the Harbert Business School at Auburn University, Garret's spirit of service soars beyond recovery. He's a pilot for the Civil Air Patrol and helms a global water non-profit, One Million Goal, Inc. As an award-winning author, co-founder of a recovery residence, and a captivating speaker, Garret consistently leaves audiences inspired, bolstered in self-worth and imbued with a newfound sense of purpose.

In this episode we discuss:

-Transitioning out of the military

-Loss of identity

-How to work through struggles

-And so much more

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How to connect with Garret:

LinkedIn: Garret Biss

Facebook: Garret Biss

Twitter: Garret Biss

YouTube: @thrivingrecovery

Instagram: @garretbiss