Podcasts > Tommy T Podcast - Mscs Media > Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

By Mscs Media Audio

In this episode of the Tommy T Podcast, combat veterans Tommy T and Anthony Longo candidly share their struggles with mental health and the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life after military service. They discuss the potential of alternative treatments like psychedelics and service dogs in addressing issues such as PTSD, which traditional pharmaceuticals and the VA healthcare system have failed to adequately support.

Longo and Tommy T also highlight the mission of the Warrior's Choice Foundation, which aims to provide comprehensive health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and access to alternative therapies like psychedelics for veterans. The episode sheds light on the funding challenges faced by organizations trying to meet the crucial needs of combat veterans reintegrating into society.

Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

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Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

1-Page Summary

Mental Health Challenges After Service

Veterans Tommy T and Anthony Longo discuss psychedelics and alternative treatments as potential mental health solutions, sharing personal experiences that transformed their well-being.

Psychedelic and Alternative Treatment Options

Longo details profound encounters with 5-MeO-DMT and the value of microdosing psilocybin. He expresses concern over pharmaceuticals altering psychedelics' therapeutic effects. Tommy T laments veterans' lack of "right to try" psychedelics despite their potential.

Problems Transitioning Out of Military

Longo recounts an emotional, ill-prepared transition from service. The transition assistance program was brief and ineffective. He received no mental health evaluation and faced frustrations with the VA's inadequate healthcare support, according to Tommy T.

Warrior's Choice Foundation

Providing Service Dogs

Longo shares stories of service dogs providing crucial emotional support during veterans' challenging transitions, facilitating stability and reintegration into civilian life.

Developing Alternative Treatment Facility

The Foundation aims to construct a facility offering comprehensive health assessments, personalized treatment plans, and alternative therapies like psychedelics. Longo mentions potential partnerships for hormone replacement therapy and stem cell treatments.

Funding Challenges

Longo and Tommy T emphasize relying on community donations and sponsors to maintain services for combat veterans. They host fundraising events like CrossFit competitions and golf tournaments while advocating fiscal transparency.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • 5-MeO-DMT is a powerful psychedelic compound known for inducing intense spiritual experiences. Microdosing psilocybin involves taking small, sub-perceptual doses of the active ingredient in magic mushrooms to potentially enhance mood and cognition. These substances have gained attention for their potential therapeutic effects on mental health conditions like depression and PTSD.
  • "Right to try" is a concept that allows individuals with life-threatening conditions, who have exhausted approved treatment options, to access experimental treatments that are still in the testing phase. In the context of psychedelics, it means giving patients the legal right to try these substances for therapeutic purposes, even if they haven't been officially approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA. This concept is often advocated for by individuals who believe in the potential benefits of psychedelics for mental health treatment and want to explore these options outside of traditional pharmaceutical approaches. The "right to try" movement aims to provide patients with more autonomy over their treatment choices and potentially accelerate access to promising therapies.
  • The term "VA" in the context of healthcare support typically stands for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. In this case, "VA's inadequate healthcare support" suggests that the healthcare services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs were not sufficient or effective in meeting the needs of the veterans, possibly in terms of mental health care or other medical services. This could imply issues such as long wait times, limited access to specialized care, insufficient resources, or challenges in receiving timely and appropriate treatment.
  • Hormone replacement therapy involves supplementing or replacing hormones in the body to address hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. This treatment is commonly used to manage symptoms related to menopause, low testosterone levels, or other hormonal issues. Stem cell treatments involve using stem cells to repair, regenerate, or replace damaged cells or tissues in the body. These therapies hold promise for various medical conditions and are being researched for their potential in regenerative medicine.

Counterarguments

  • Concerns about the safety and long-term effects of psychedelics and alternative treatments, as they are not as well-studied as traditional pharmaceuticals.
  • The potential for abuse or misuse of psychedelics, especially without proper medical supervision.
  • The possibility that the emphasis on alternative treatments might lead some veterans to forgo conventional treatments that have a more established track record.
  • The "right to try" psychedelics could be complicated by legal and ethical considerations, including the current legal status of these substances.
  • The effectiveness of service dogs is well-documented, but they may not be suitable or beneficial for every veteran.
  • The construction of a new facility and the implementation of alternative therapies could face regulatory hurdles and require rigorous scientific validation to be considered legitimate.
  • Hormone replacement therapy and stem cell treatments, while promising, are still areas of active research and may carry their own risks and uncertainties.
  • Relying solely on community donations and sponsors for funding could lead to financial instability or limit the reach of the Warrior's Choice Foundation's programs.
  • While advocating for fiscal transparency is commendable, it does not guarantee the efficient or effective use of funds.
  • Fundraising events like CrossFit competitions and golf tournaments may not appeal to all segments of the community, potentially limiting the scope of fundraising efforts.

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Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

Mental Health Challenges After Service

Veterans Tommy T and Anthony Longo discuss the potential for psychedelic and alternative treatments to address mental health challenges following service. They share their personal experiences and insights into how these substances have had profound impacts on their lives.

Psychedelic and Alternative Treatment Options

Veterans explore psychedelics as a means to heal from trauma and improve mental well-being, highlighting the inefficacy of conventional methods and the potential of alternative approaches.

Microdosing psychedelics with intent

Tommy T discusses the practice of microdosing with psilocybin as part of a treatment protocol, an approach he adopted after using NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) to address addiction issues. Anthony Longo shares his experience with microdosing over two years, which he approached with caution due to concerns about possible negative outcomes.

Value of 5-MeO-DMT

Longo details his significant encounters with 5-MeO-DMT, often called "the Toad." He compares it to throwing a grenade in a room and then reassembling everything, suggesting a chaotic yet transformative effect. Longo describes the powerful and expansive effect of inhaling 5-MeO-DMT, which made him feel present but also everywhere. He equates using regular "DMT to 5-MeO-DMT as going from a moped to a ballistic missile," referencing the intense experience it provides.

During his experiences, Longo fought the effects, which led to purging and the release of a "black cloud" of tension. He describes profound or existential moments, such as everything fading to black with a distant speck of light, and mentions being at the "doorstep" or "waiting room," alluding to deeper experiences he hadn't fully explored.

Longo also recounts the difficulty in communicating the nature of these experiences and confronting his internal challenges after using the substance.

Psilocybin, ayahuasca, ibogaine, CBD, medical marijuana

While CBD and medical marijuana are mentioned, the transcript does not specifically detail experiences with psilocybin, ayahuasca, or ibogaine—other ...

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Mental Health Challenges After Service

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme crucial for cellular metabolism, facilitating redox reactions by shuttling electrons between molecules. It exists in oxidized (NAD+) and reduced (NADH) forms, playing a key role in energy production and various enzymatic processes within cells. NAD can be synthesized from simple building blocks like tryptophan or aspartic acid, or obtained from dietary sources like niacin, contributing to essential cellular functions and serving as a target for drug development.
  • 5-MeO-DMT is a psychedelic compound found in certain plants and secreted by a specific toad species. It is known for inducing intense and transformative experiences, including radical perspective shifts, euphoria, and even ego death. The effects of 5-MeO-DMT can vary widely, from profound insights to feelings of fear and panic, depending on the individual and the dosage. It is distinct from other psychedelics like DMT and bufotenin, offering unique psychoactive properties.
  • Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain types of mushrooms. It is converted into psilocin in the body, leading to mind-altering effects like euphoria and hallucinations. Psilocybin has a history of traditional use in spiritual ceremonies and has gained attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health conditions.
  • Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies and healing practices by Indigenous cultures in South America. It is made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis shrub, containing DMT and harmala alkaloids that work together to induce its effects. Ayahuasca has gained popularity globally for its therapeutic potential in treating substance dependence, anxiety, and mood disorders, alongside its traditional spiritual uses. The brew's effects are attributed to its ability to activate specific rec ...

Counterarguments

  • Concerns about the lack of rigorous scientific research to support the safety and efficacy of psychedelics for treating mental health issues in veterans.
  • The potential for negative side effects or adverse reactions to psychedelic substances, which may not be fully understood or disclosed.
  • The possibility that anecdotal evidence and personal testimonies may not be representative of the broader population's experiences with psychedelics.
  • The risk of dependency or abuse of psychedelic substances, especially if not used within a controlled and therapeutic context.
  • The need for professional oversight and the potential dangers of self-medicating with psychedelics without proper guidance from healthcare providers.
  • The ethical considerations and legal implications of advocating for the use of substances that are currently classified as illegal in many jurisdictions.
  • The argument that more traditional forms of therapy and medication should not be dismissed as ineffective, as they may work well for many individuals.
  • The concern that the push for psychedelic treatments may overshadow the importance of address ...

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Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

Problems Transitioning Out of Military

Anthony Longo's personal experience sheds light on the complexities and challenges many veterans face when transitioning from military service to civilian life, bringing into question the adequacy of support given to transitioning service members.

Lack of preparation and support

Longo recalls his transition out of the military as a time filled with emotional difficulty, indicating a broader lack of preparation and support for veterans.

Inadequate transition assistance program

Anthony Longo describes the transition assistance program he experienced as brief and ineffective, hinting at a systemic issue within the program itself. He was given only a short time to absorb information on what to expect post-discharge, where to go for support, and even learn resume writing, all of which needed to be grasped in just three days.

No mental health evaluation

Longo mentions personal struggles that went unaddressed, implying a significant gap in mental health support during his transition. His account does not specifically mention receiving any mental health evaluation, which could have aided in addressing these personal challenges.

Focus on quick discharge

His out-processing, which took about a month after completing a transition course, suggests that the military might prioritize a quick discharge over thorough prepar ...

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Problems Transitioning Out of Military

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Longo's personal struggles highlight the challenges many veterans face with mental health issues during their transition to civilian life. The lack of mental health evaluation for Longo indicates a broader gap in mental health support within the military transition process. This connection underscores the need for improved mental health services and support for veterans during their transition out of the military.
  • The reliance on civilians to provide care for veterans suggests a gap in the government's ability to fully meet the healthcare needs of veterans. This reliance may stem from resource limitations within the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. It highl ...

Counterarguments

  • The transition assistance program may vary in quality and effectiveness across different branches and installations, and some veterans may find it more helpful than others.
  • The three-day transition course might be a baseline, with additional resources and support available to those who seek them out.
  • Mental health evaluations may be offered, but not mandatory, and it's possible that some service members decline them or are unaware of their availability.
  • The focus on quick discharge could be due to administrative constraints or a high volume of service members transitioning out, rather than a lack of concern for their well-being.
  • The VA healthcare system has been undergoing reforms and improvements, and some veterans may have positive experiences with the care they receive.
  • The six-month program mentioned may not suit everyone's needs, but it does not necessarily represent the entirety of the support and programs availab ...

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Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

Warrior's Choice Foundation

The Warrior's Choice Foundation is making strides to support veterans through service dogs and the development of an alternative treatment facility that promises a comprehensive approach to veteran healthcare.

Providing Service Dogs

Anthony Longo shares touching stories of how service dogs have significantly impacted the lives of veterans, highlighting the substantial emotional support these animals provide.

Dogs provide emotional support

Longo recounts the transformation in a veteran's life after receiving a service dog, detailing the stability and emotional support the dog provides. He describes the profound change, evidencing the emotional anchor the dog can be for a veteran in need.

Help veterans with transition challenges

Through the narrative of a vet named John, Longo illustrates how service dogs assist with transition challenges. The service dog he provided for John played a crucial role in helping the vet "lean on" and move forward in life.

Facilitate reintegration into civilian society

Due to the positive impact of the service dog, John is now married, has two children, and is excelling in civilian life, demonstrating the potential of a service dog's role in successful reintegration.

Developing Alternative Treatment Facility

Longo discusses the Warrior's Choice Foundation's future developments, including a comprehensive health treatment facility with alternative treatments like psychedelics.

Offer psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT

While not explicitly mentioned in the provided excerpt, Anthony Longo discusses his positive personal experience with 5-MeO-DMT, indicating the potential inclusion of psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT in the Foundation's alternative treatment options.

Have onsite medical and mental health staff

Longo emphasizes the warrior's Choice Foundation is building a team, which includes a clinical director for mental health and a new executive director with a background as a doctor. This suggests the facilities will be equipped with onsite medical and mental health staff capable of offering custom treatments.

Provide full evaluation and custom treatment

The conversation alludes to comprehensive health assessments, including over 2,500 ...

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Warrior's Choice Foundation

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT are being explored for their potential therapeutic benefits in mental health treatment. Research suggests that these substances may have the ability to induce profound psychological effects that could be beneficial for conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. When used in a controlled and supervised setting, psychedelics are believed to offer a unique approach to therapy by altering perception and promoting introspection. The use of psychedelics in therapy is a growing field of study, with ongoing research aiming to understand their mechanisms of action and potential applications in mental health care.
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves the use of hormones to treat symp ...

Counterarguments

  • Service dogs, while beneficial, may not be suitable for all veterans due to allergies, phobias, or lifestyle constraints that make caring for a dog impractical.
  • The effectiveness of service dogs can vary, and there is a need for more empirical research to establish standardized measures of their impact on veterans' mental health.
  • The use of psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT in treatment is still controversial and not universally accepted in the medical community, with concerns about safety, long-term effects, and potential for abuse.
  • Onsite medical and mental health staff are essential, but the quality of care may depend on the staff's expertise and experience with veteran-specific health issues.
  • Comprehensive health assessments and custom treatment plans are ideal but may be resource-intensive and difficult to scale for all veterans in need.
  • Partnerships with specialists in HRT and stem cell therapy suggest innovative approaches, but these treatments may not have conclusive evidence of efficacy for all conditions veteran ...

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Anthony Longo a Marine Combat Vet. Vladimir Putin, WOKE Military. PTSD #376

Funding Challenges

Financial sustainability is crucial for any organization focused on service, as highlighted by Anthony Longo and Tommy T, who face funding challenges in their efforts to support combat veterans.

Relying on community donations and sponsors

Anthony Longo discusses the reliance on community support for financial backing. Despite having a capable grant team, there is an evident need for sponsors to continuously provide and maintain services for combat veterans. Longo praises the local community and some sponsors for their help, emphasizing that community involvement is paramount. He also underscores the importance of social media engagement, such as likes and follows, which does not cost supporters anything but greatly aids the organization's visibility and reach.

Longo maintains that every contribution counts, with even small donations like a dollar making a meaningful difference over time. He also appreciates those who reach out to learn more and provide support in various forms, including volunteering and engagement. Stressing the value of quality personnel for the mission, Longo reveals his own dedication by not taking a salary for eight years, investing instead in the foundation's services, which includes providing service dogs.

Tommy T reinforces the idea that even modest contributions have a significant impact, relating three dollars to a gallon of gas which can support their initiatives. Longo grudgingly admits the usefulness of social media in fundraising and spreading awareness, even if he personally dislikes it.

Hosting fundraising events

Anthony Longo and Tommy T speak to the importance of hosting fundraising events to sustain their services and mission.

Longo details events such as CrossFit competitions and golf tournaments in Jupiter, Florida, as key fundraising efforts. He emphasizes the need for the community's active participation, both by sponsoring lanes in the fitness competition and joining the golf tournament, which ai ...

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Funding Challenges

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Anthony Longo and Tommy T are individuals involved in efforts to support combat veterans through their organization. They rely on community donations and sponsors to sustain their services. Hosting fundraising events like CrossFit competitions and golf tournaments is crucial for their fundraising efforts. Their dedication to the cause is evident through their personal sacrifices and commitment to the mission.
  • Anthony Longo and Tommy T are individuals involved in efforts to support combat veterans through an organization. They discuss funding challenges and the importance of community support and fundrai ...

Counterarguments

  • Financial sustainability may also be achieved through other means such as partnerships with larger organizations, government grants, or endowments, not solely through community donations and sponsors.
  • Social media engagement, while cost-free for supporters, requires significant time and resources from the organization to manage effectively and may not always translate into financial support.
  • Small contributions are important, but larger, sustained funding sources may be necessary for long-term planning and execution of services.
  • Quality personnel are indeed valuable, but there must be a balance between volunteerism and fair compensation to ensure the retention of skilled staff.
  • Fundraising events can be effective, but they also carry risks and costs, and there is no guarantee of success; alternative fundraising strategies may be more reliable or cost-effective.
  • Active community participation is beneficial, but over-reliance on the community can lead to donor fatigue; diversifying ...

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