Tyler chats with John Preston, founder of 22 and You, a movement to save lives of first responders and veterans suffering from post traumatic stress (PTS). John started the movement by embarking on a 630 mile hike from Palo Alto to San Diego that caught the attention of many individuals, including first responders and veterans that joined to walk alongside John. Encouraged by John’s perseverance, these fellow hikers shared their own personal battles or stories of loss as they descended the California coast together. John brought along a film crew also composed of veterans and first responders that not only covered the hike but helped him push on to the finish line on the USS Midway. The movement was inspired by the loss of John’s older brother Michael in January 2016. After Michael’s passing, John had two singles about combatting suicide into the DRT Top 20 and iTunes Top 200, charting with some of the most popular rock and pop artists in the world. The success of his music was getting attention, but John never found a way to fully explain the experience of losing his brother with words alone. He thought if he put himself through horrific physical pain, he may be able to finally express to the world the pain of losing a loved one to suicide. 22 miles a day, 28 days, with a 22-kilogram rucksack.
John Preston on YouTube Superman Falls
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Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping the Unified Service Family- transitioning servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones- navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of service.
From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By highlighting diverse healing modalities, we aim to provide inclusive resources that support every individual's unique path.
In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by historians to revisit key moments in our nation's history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice while providing context that deepens our understanding of the lived experience of those who serve.
Whether you are a veteran, a first responder, a family member, a caregiver, or an advocate, Coming Home Well offers the insights, connections, and tools necessary to support a successful transition and a healthy, purpose-driven life.
Meet the Host
Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.
Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.