Harley Tessman - Against the Odds from Military Challenges to Renewed Faith

In this episode of Holy Smokes, host Steve Reiter talks with guest Harley Tessman, exploring Tessman's transformative journey through military service, mental health battles, and his current life on the road. Tessman shares his profound spiritual experiences and faith struggles during his deployments, punctuated by near-death encounters and the warmth of familial support, particularly from his wife, Britney. The conversation also delves into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics like ketamine for PTSD, Tessman's work and leadership reflections, and the nostalgic ties to their Wisconsin small-town roots. The episode further highlights Tessman's passion for cigars and music and the meaningful connections he's made while traveling full-time in an RV across the United States.

So grab your favorite cigar, sit back, and join us for an enlightening conversation with Harley Tessman on Holy Smokes!

Outline: 

00:00 Farming provided food despite financial struggles.

17:23 Choose Northwestern for Bible coursework, double major.

23:48 Worked long hours but had weekends off.

40:39 False sense of invincibility in combat zone.

51:27 Married at DMV, self-officiated in Colorado.

58:56 Neck injury leads to potential military retirement.

01:04:32 Left brewery, church focus; faced challenges, conflicts.

01:14:47 Indianapolis has welcomed Holy Smokes groups.

01:28:44 Excited about psychedelics helping mental health issues.

01:39:43 Outnumbered Americans watch Taliban factions battle.

01:49:00 Uncertain about getting more dogs after Emma.

01:58:02 Weakness: Compassion. Strength: Remembering names, faces.