Up First from NPR Carlson’s War: Part 2
22 snips
Nov 9, 2025 
Veteran Dave Carlson shares his gripping journey through PTSD and incarceration. In prison, chaotic conditions triggered his combat mindset, leading to a dark path. He found faith in solitary confinement, igniting his desire to rebuild his life. After his release, he faced challenges with addiction but embraced recovery through VA rehab. Now a law graduate and practicing attorney, Carlson mentors at-risk youth, teaching the values he learned on his path to recovery. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and community support.
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Combat Mindset In Prison
- Dave Carlson reverted to combat mode in prison, training for cell fights and coating his cell entrance with baby oil to repel attackers.
- He suffered constant nightmares and violent outbursts that landed him in long solitary confinement.
Finding Faith In Solitary
- Solitary forced Carlson to confront his problems and he says he found God during that time.
- That spiritual turn became a major inflection point for him to start rebuilding his life.
Turn Trauma Into Service
- Carlson decided to channel his experience into helping others in similar situations and prevent them from repeating his mistakes.
- He adopted a mission of selflessly serving fellow veterans and at-risk youth.