Trial By Fire: Combat Medic to Outstanding Airman - The Resilient Heart of Colleen Mitchell

# 🎧📝🎙️From Medic to Outstanding Airman: Colleen Mitchell's Inspirational Journey⁠

Welcome to this extraordinary episode of our podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting the incredible Colleen Mitchell. A former medic and one of the 12 outstanding airmen of the year, Colleen has a remarkable story to share. In this episode, she takes us on a journey through her life, filled with triumphs, challenges, and unexpected turns. Get ready to be inspired and captivated by her story!

---Colleen's Favorites and Fun Discussion---

[Time Stamp: 00:05:50]

Colleen's infectious enthusiasm shines through as she talks about her favorite part of the show, where she gets to connect with the audience and share her experiences. When asked who would play her in a movie about her life, she laughs and playfully suggests that Jennifer Lawrence would be the perfect fit. Her sense of humor is delightful, making this podcast episode a joy to listen to.

[Time Stamp: 00:12:17]

During the episode, a fun and intriguing topic surfaces: a hypothetical fight between a gorilla and a grizzly bear. Colleen humorously imagines the wild encounter, playfully choosing sides before eventually conceding that it would be an epic battle to witness.

[Time Stamp: 00:17:54]

Looking ahead, Colleen shares three exciting things she plans to do in the next 20 years. From scaling mountains to exploring new cultures, her adventurous spirit knows no bounds.

---The MedicX Initiative and Deployment in Kenya---

[Time Stamp: 00:24:40]

Colleen delves into her experience during the "MedicX" initiative, a program that proved to be a lifeline during emergencies. She explains how this initiative saves lives through rapid response and efficient medical care, emphasizing the importance of such programs in critical situations.

[Time Stamp: 00:31:16]

Her deployment in Kenya showcased the impact of the MedicX program in action. Colleen recounts the challenges faced and the incredible efforts of medical professionals on the ground. Their dedication and skill in providing aid to those in need left a lasting impression on her.

---Coping with Post-Deployment Anxiety---

[Time Stamp: 00:37:33]

The journey of a serviceman doesn't end with their return home. Colleen opens up about her struggles with anxiety after her deployment. Adapting to civilian life and coping with the memories of the field can be overwhelming. In this segment, she candidly shares her experiences and offers valuable tips for others facing similar challenges.

[Time Stamp: 00:44:00]

Josh, a fellow serviceman, shares his own experience with military funeral honors and how it affected his mental well-being. Colleen emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and seeking support for mental health struggles within the military community.

---The Journey to Becoming Outstanding---

[Time Stamp: 00:50:12]

Becoming one of the 12 outstanding airmen of the year is no small feat. Colleen walks us through the process of achieving this prestigious award and the dedication it required. Along the way, she found fulfillment in mentoring cadets, inspiring the next generation of servicemen.

[Time Stamp: 00:55:54]

She touches on the unintended consequences of her achievements, shedding light on the pressures that come with recognition and the responsibility to continue serving as a role model.

---The Mentor and the Importance of Humility---

[Time Stamp: 01:01:41]

Chief Rick, Colleen's mentor, played a pivotal role in her life and career. She fondly recalls the guidance he provided and how he instilled in her the values of transparency and humility. Colleen believes that mentorship is a crucial aspect of personal growth and attributes much of her success to Chief Rick's wisdom.