Brandon Harding: Veterans, Trauma & the Healing Power of Nature and Community

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In this powerful episode of Security Halt!, host Deny Caballero welcomes Brandon Harding, a veteran and advocate for wilderness-based healing, to explore how nature, mindfulness, and community can transform mental health outcomes for those who’ve served.

Brandon shares his personal path from military service to self-discovery in the outdoors—unpacking the emotional weight of military identity, trauma, and the long journey toward healing. From breathwork and mindfulness practices to the simple awe of the wilderness, Brandon discusses how reconnecting with nature opens the door to resilience, clarity, and peace of mind.

This conversation dives deep into the role of gratitude, positive psychology, and guided conversations in helping veterans heal from unseen wounds. Whether you’re transitioning from service or supporting someone who is, this episode offers inspiring tools and real stories of post-service growth.

🎙️ If you believe healing is possible, this episode is for you.

👉 Be sure to like, follow, share, and subscribe to Security Halt! on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to support veteran mental health and never miss an episode!

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Chapters

00:00 The Healing Power of Nature

02:59 Brandon's Journey to Healing

06:07 Rediscovering Awe in the Outdoors

08:51 The Importance of Community and Connection

11:59 Guided Conversations and Trauma Processing

15:04 Positive Psychology and Gratitude in Nature

28:25 The Power of Breath and Mindfulness

30:55 Healing Through Wilderness Experiences

33:43 The Burden of Leadership and Vulnerability

38:05 Rediscovering Identity Beyond Military Service

41:01 Experiencing Nature Without Combat Stress

44:12 Letting Go of Emotional Baggage

46:55 Supporting Veterans Through Community Programs

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LinkedIn: Deny Caballero

Connect with Brandon on social media and check out Veterans in the wild today!

LinkedIn: Brandon Harding

Website: Vetreransinthewild.org

Instagram: veterans.in.the.wild

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Produced by Security Halt Media

Chapters

1. Introduction to Security Halt (00:00:00)

2. Veterans Finding Healing Outdoors (00:01:22)

3. Birth of Veterans in the Wild (00:05:15)

4. Combat Awe vs. Natural Awe (00:10:38)

5. Creating Tribe in the Wilderness (00:18:12)

6. Power of Gratitude Practice (00:23:15)

7. Breathwork and Mindfulness Connections (00:29:47)

8. Identity Beyond Military Service (00:36:32)

9. Shedding Burdens for Better Relationships (00:44:10)

10. Programs and Support Information (00:48:16)