In this powerful episode of The Price of Admission, we sit down with Jeremy Harrell, a combat veteran, nonprofit leader, and advocate for change, to explore how suffering can be a profound teacher. Jeremy shares his incredible journey, from his military service during Operation Iraqi Freedom to founding Veteran’s Club Inc., a nationally recognized nonprofit providing innovative programs like equine therapy and transitional housing for veterans and first responders.

Through candid reflections, Jeremy opens up about his belief that "some of the best lessons we will learn come through suffering." He discusses his legal challenges, the role of faith and resilience in his life, and how he has transformed personal hardships into a mission of service and healing. This episode dives deep into leadership, personal growth, and the importance of listening during life’s most difficult moments.

Join us for a conversation that will challenge your perspective, inspire your journey, and redefine how you think about the price we pay for growth.

🎙️ Key Topics Include:

• The transformative power of suffering.
• Lessons learned from military service and advocacy.
• Balancing personal accountability with leading a nonprofit.
• Faith, family, and the pursuit of purpose.
• Jeremy’s "Price of Admission" and his advice to "hang tight and just listen."

⠀Tune in and discover how adversity can shape you into the person you’re meant to be.

In a milestone 100th episode of *Price of Admission*, I sit down with Navy veteran and business owner Jared Smearman. Jared opens up about his journey from the Naval Academy to navigating identity crises, battling OCD, anxiety, and substance abuse, and rebuilding relationships with his family.

Now a successful entrepreneur in dog training, Jared shares hard-earned lessons about resilience, humility, and the importance of asking for help. He reminds us that vulnerability is a strength and that isolation is the enemy of growth.

With humor, honesty, and faith, Jared dives into:
* Life after the Navy and rediscovering purpose.
* Breaking free from the stigma of mental health struggles.
* Why community and connection are essential for healing.
* The hilarious—and surprising—side of body hair management (trust us, it’s worth the listen!).

⠀If you’ve ever felt stuck, isolated, or unsure of your path, this episode is packed with experience and practical takeaways to inspire your own thing. #priceofadmission #podcast #military #transition #identity

Mike Stukel, a Jacksonville native and Navy Football Senior of 20011, Class of 2012.

We discuss:

• His transition from quarterback to A-back and the unforgettable moments of ‘Team Wins’.
• Life-saving experiences that highlight his courage and composure under pressure.
• Lessons from Marine Corps deployments, including eye-opening perspectives gained in Djibouti.
• The transition to civilian life and his career in medical device sales.
• How he balances the demands of his career with being a dedicated father of four and a youth sports coach.

Mike's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and brotherhood. Whether you're a fan of Navy Football, a veteran navigating life after service, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode delivers powerful insights and unforgettable stories.