After deployment, some warriors come home. Others just arrive.
Dustin Carter opens up about how writing became more than a hobby-it became his lifeline. From his rough start before service to finding purpose in the Guard, then facing the spiral of isolation, anger, and a VA system that wanted to medicate instead of listen, Dustin didn't just survive-he wrote his way through.
His novel, The Veteran, follows a fictional soldier on a hauntingly real path-homelessness, addiction, trauma-and the slow, uphill climb back through therapy, routine, and the camaraderie of fellow vets.
This conversation is raw, unfiltered, and full of the kind of insight only a vet could offer. Whether you're in the thick of your own battle or trying to support someone who is, this episode offers hope, perspective, and a few hard truths that might just spark change.
Timestamps
04:00 - Dustin Carter on how structure in the military gave him purpose 08:15 - Why writing became his escape from pills and pain 11:00 - Behind The Veteran: A raw story of spiraling and recovery 20:45 - Rebuilding with movement, connection, and purpose 32:00 - A haircut, a suit, and the spark that changed everything
Links & Resources
- Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
- https://www.dustincarter512.com
Transcript
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