Episode 40 - Master Sergeant (MSG) Retired (R) Chad Baker The Battle After the Battle: Chad Baker on PTSD and Transition

PTSD After Service: Breaking the Silence with Chad Baker

In this deeply honest and important episode of The Tactical Transition Podcast, we sit down with Chad Baker to talk about one of the most difficult realities many veterans face after service: living and working through PTSD.

Chad shares an unfiltered look at what PTSD can feel like long after the uniform comes off, from anxiety and hypervigilance to brain fog, sleep disruption, medication side effects, and the silent pressure of trying to perform at a high level while carrying invisible wounds.

He speaks candidly about the emotional toll of transition, the loss of mission, and the internal battle many veterans fight behind the scenes each day. This conversation is raw, real, and incredibly necessary for veterans, military families, leaders, and employers who want to better understand the unseen side of transition.

Sensitive Content Notice

This episode includes a detailed discussion of PTSD, combat memories, anxiety, trauma responses, and mental health struggles after military service. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those currently navigating similar experiences.

If this episode brings something up for you, please reach out to a trusted friend, licensed mental health professional, or the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, then Press 1).

In this episode, the hidden reality of PTSD in civilian leadership roles, why transition can intensify unresolved trauma, brain fog, self-doubt, and workplace performance, the pressure to “look fine” while struggling internally, rebuilding purpose and identity after service, and why honest conversations save lives

Connect with Chad Baker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-baker-074725137/ 

Resources: For the Love of a Veteran: https://www.fortheloveofaveteran.org/

Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, Press 1

374 Consultants Community: 374Consultants.com