What happens after the mission ends?
For retired U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician Jeff Truex, the most important mission of his life didn't begin on the battlefield—it began after he took off the uniform.
In this inspiring episode of The Misfit Nation Podcast, Jeff shares his remarkable journey from serving 23 years in the United States Army, including 17 years as an EOD Bomb Disposal Technician, to becoming a passionate advocate for veteran mental health and suicide prevention.
After losing a fellow EOD technician to suicide, Jeff helped launch After the Long Walk, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring no veteran fights their battles alone. Through peer support, crisis intervention, education, and community outreach, the organization continues to save lives by reminding veterans that asking for help is one of the strongest things they can do.
Throughout this conversation, Jeff opens up about military service, combat deployments, life after retirement, rediscovering purpose, motorcycles, brotherhood, outdoor cooking, and why authentic human connection is one of the most powerful forms of healing available.
Whether you're a veteran, active-duty service member, first responder, military spouse, or simply someone looking for an inspiring story about resilience and leadership, this episode is packed with meaningful conversations that matter.
In This Episode
• Jeff's journey into Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
• Serving 23 years in the U.S. Army
• Combat deployments and military life
• Transitioning from military service to civilian life
• The veteran mental health crisis
• Preventing veteran suicide through connection
• Why asking for help isn't weakness
• Brotherhood beyond the battlefield
• Finding purpose after military service
• Motorcycles, cooking, and building community
About Jeff Truex
Jeff Truex is a retired United States Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician who served for more than 23 years, including 17 years performing one of the military's most dangerous jobs. Throughout multiple deployments, Jeff dedicated his career to protecting others by confronting explosive threats around the world.
Today, Jeff serves as the President of After the Long Walk, a nonprofit organization committed to preventing veteran suicide through peer support, education, outreach, and community engagement. His mission is simple but powerful: ensure that every veteran knows they never have to fight alone.
Learn more about Jeff's mission and the work of After the Long Walk:
https://www.afterthelongwalk.com/
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. There is always hope, and there are people who care.
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