Smoke ’Em If You Got ’Em: Jon Flatt on War, Identity & Healing

Veteran and author Jon Flatt joins host Kingsley Scott for a raw conversation about war, identity, and what it really takes to heal. Through the lens of “Smoke ’Em If You Got ’Em,” Jon explains how the on/off rhythm of the Guard followed him home, why the “switch” wouldn’t stay off, and how recovery began when he told the truth—to himself first. He shares the decision to move his family to Ireland, the work of not “becoming the threat” at home, and the small, repeatable actions that helped him start again.

Highlights:
• Truth before forgiveness and why minimizing your story keeps you stuck
• Hyper-vigilance at the dinner table and learning to dial it down without losing safety
• One-outlet practice (fishing in Jon’s case) as training for calm, not a luxury
• Parenting while healing and leaving the light on for others coming behind you
• Staying close to your people and advocating for yourself with systems and benefits

Start here:
Say one true sentence in the mirror, pick one healthy outlet and schedule it, and text one person who “speaks your language.” Keep coming.

Find the book by searching “Smoke ’Em If You Got ’Em” on Amazon, or request a digital manuscript at johnflatauthor.com.

More from VET S.O.S. (Transition Show): open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
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