On this episode of Manlihood, Josh Hatcher sits down with Jeremy Stalnecker, a Marine Corps veteran, combat leader, author, and Executive Director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, to explore the battles that continue long after the gunfire stops.
Jeremy led Marines into combat during the Iraq War, earning the Navy Commendation Medal with “V” for Valor, but it was the war in his own mind that tested him most. After leaving the military, Jeremy struggled with identity, transition, and trauma—until he found healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
Now, through the Mighty Oaks Foundation, he helps veterans, first responders, and service members navigate PTSD, reclaim their identity, and walk forward in faith and freedom. In this episode, Jeremy shares practical, battlefield-tested wisdom for men—whether you’ve served in combat or you’re facing your own personal war.
This is a powerful and redemptive conversation about masculinity, leadership, responsibility, and the courage it takes to face your pain and lead others through theirs.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction to Jeremy Stalnecker
01:35 – His story: Leading Marines in Iraq, transitioning to civilian life
04:25 – Founding the Mighty Oaks Foundation: a mission born from pain
18:10 – PTSD unpacked: What it is, how it works, and who it affects
27:09 – Mighty Oaks’ approach: Faith-based, identity-rooted healing
32:22 – Trauma and identity: Finding out who you really are
33:45 – The lies we believe about God and suffering
35:56 – Why personal testimony matters in healing
37:43 – Getting unstuck: Real steps toward change and healing
46:48 – A message for veterans, first responders, and hurting men
49:34 – What it means to be a man: Reject passivity, lead courageously
54:17 – Final words of wisdom: You’re not alone, and there is a way forward
Key Takeaways:
✅ PTSD is more common—and more misunderstood—than many realize
✅ Trauma doesn’t define you—your identity is deeper than your pain
✅ Leadership starts with healing—then reaching back to help others
✅ Faith isn’t a crutch—it’s a foundation for purpose and strength
✅ You don’t have to do this alone—brotherhood is part of the solution
Connect with Jeremy Stalnecker:
Website: https://www.jeremystalnecker.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeremystalneckerofficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jstalnecker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-stalnecker-63a2a17
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyOaksFoundation
March or Die Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/march-or-die/id1517415146
Books by Jeremy Stalnecker:
March or Die – https://amzn.to/3DZDEvE
Leadership by Design – https://amzn.to/4caWgpc
Path to Resiliency – https://amzn.to/3FIDHwl
The Truth About PTSD – https://amzn.to/4iOsngS
Offensive Faith – https://amzn.to/42lJ9xV
J
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