All Episodes

April 12, 2025 103 mins

In this episode of "The People We Meet," host Ty Bruner sits down with TJ Gaia, a man whose life story unfolds like a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, courage, and introspection. Born in Las Vegas and transplanted to the quieter town of Moscow, Idaho, TJ shares his early life struggles, the absence of a father, and a mother's tireless efforts to keep their lives stitched together.

TJ takes us deep into his experiences as he navigates the tumultuous seas of war, describing the haunting echoes of his first deployment to Iraq. The narrative of survival, marked by the tragic loss of brothers-in-arms and the weight of command responsibility, paints a vivid picture of the soldier's dual battle—against external enemies and internal demons.

Yet, amid the horrors of combat, TJ's journey is also one of hope and redemption. The episode unfolds his transformative relationship with faith, which began to take shape after meeting a pastor whose words resonated with the trauma-hardened soldier. This spiritual awakening becomes a balm for his invisible wounds, guiding him towards healing and peace.

"The People We Meet" offers more than just a tale of one man's struggle; it is an invitation to witness the power of faith and community in overcoming life's most daunting challenges. Join us for an episode that challenges perceptions, stirs the heart, and shines a light on the path from trauma to triumph.

 

Learn more at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.