Tag Archives: PTSD

In Stitches: Episode 1. Adam Keys is 99% Dishwasher Safe!

Introducing In Stitches Podcast, an interview-style podcast that explores the humanity in humor.

I’m very passionate about sharing stories of people who have inspired me and I’m equally passionate about the power of laughter. To me, they are both the surprise recognition that we are not alone and provide us with similar experience, clarity, perspective, inspiration, growth & very often a much needed release.

One person who has inspired me (and become a good friend!) is Armed Services Arts Partnership – ASAP founder, Sam Pressler. Our friendship had been forged cultivating a community where veterans, active service members, military families and caregivers can experience support, growth & an outlet through the arts. And our conversations continue to go way beyond that, which led us to creating this podcast!

Sam and I are going to be talking to people from all types of backgrounds: comics and non-comics, first responders and civilians, and everyone in between. In every episode, we’ll unearth the role that humor played in our guests’ lives—both how humor helped and, sometimes, how humor hurt. We hope to capture that messy middle between comedy and tragedy, laughter and tears. 

In our inaugural Episode, we speak with Adam Keys – “One Step Forward” – During Adam’s first tour in Afghanistan his vehicle hit an Improvised explosive device. He was the only survivor, lost three limbs and has undergone 140+ surgeries. Adam refused to be defined by what he’s lost, but chooses to be defined by what he’s gained, which includes a killer sense of humor!

Please do us a favor by following the In Stitches Podcast page, give us a like, leave a comment & help support these incredible individuals by listening and sharing!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/1XrIwwFNFdA

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4S3YUjDT8Btm7DKm0qMdCq

Google: https://rb.gy/lfftip

U.S. Army Specialist Ryan Dostie

I had the pleasure to entertain this strong woman at the Chaz & AJ Veterans Gala over the weekend. Her story is her own but echoes others. This is what courage looks like. It’s not on display, often written about or portrayed accurately. It’s living with traumatic events daily and dealing with them during the quiet moments of life. Having the strength to fight through, talk & share. I watched a room full of over 500 people come together in a small pocket of our land to help, support & show their appreciation to a Military Veteran, mother & fellow community member. That’s the world I like, want & will do my best to continue living in. Because it inspires me. If you want to make a difference in the world, start with your own. It’s something I’ve witnessed time and time again. U.S. Army Specialist Ryan Dostie is a shining example. Her family, friends, community & fellow veterans are the better because of the very hard steps she’s taken. Thank you Ryan! 

U.S. Army Specialist Ryan Dostie