Filmmaker, fisherman, and PTSD survivor Chad Brown shares how catch and release fly fishing helped him rebuild his life. From giving back to the river to finding solace in nature, he discusses the healing power of the outdoors and the struggles of overcoming trauma.
Engagement in nature through activities like fly fishing can provide healing and connection to the environment.
Advocacy for mental health awareness and trauma healing is crucial, emphasizing the importance of rest and renewal.
Deep dives
Exploring San Antonio's Cultural Evolution
San Antonio is a city rich in history, transitioning from Spanish to Mexican to Texan rule, with landmarks like the Alamo standing as a testament to its past. The city's cultural fusion is evident in its street art juxtaposed against centuries-old structures, creating a vibrant and evolving atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to the lively fiestas, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity that encapsulates the essence of San Antonio.
Healing Through Nature and Fly Fishing
Chad Brown, a Navy veteran and trauma survivor, found solace and healing in nature, particularly through fly fishing. By immersing himself in the outdoors and engaging in the meditative practice of fly fishing, Brown discovered a profound connection to the environment and a path towards personal healing. Through his organization Love is King, Brown introduces others, especially people of color, to the transformative power of nature, using fly fishing as a tool for healing and self-discovery.
Navigating Trauma and Pursuing Healing
Brown's journey sheds light on the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the ongoing struggle for healing and recovery. Despite facing homelessness and profound personal struggles, Brown remains resolute in his mission to support fellow veterans and communities in need. Through storytelling and advocacy, Brown advocates for mental health awareness and trauma healing, emphasizing the importance of finding rest and renewal, even within the intensity of his work and personal journey.
When PTSD changed the course of Chad Brown’s life, the subtle art of catch and release fly fishing changed it back. In this episode, the filmmaker, fisherman, soldier, and survivor tells the story of how giving back—to his community, to the river, to the fish—gave him a template for rebuilding his life.
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