Navigating life after military service presents many challenges, particularly when dealing with mental health issues. JT, known as Viko, exemplifies resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. As a 14-year veteran who served in both the Marine Corps and the Army National Guard, Viko's transition from the military to founding The Bearded Viking Mead Company showcases his relentless determination to overcome adversity and establish a supportive community for veterans.
A Proud Veteran
Viko's military journey began shortly after September 11, 2001. Although he didn't join the Marine Corps directly because of the attacks, they underscored his urgent need to secure a stable future for his young daughter. He recalls his mindset at the time:
"I joined the Marine Corps on September 12th, 2001, not because of 9/11, but because I had a 9-month-old daughter and needed to provide for her. I'm driven by the desire to protect my family."
As Viko progressed through his service years, he demonstrated extraordinary dedication and skill. From excelling in personal fitness tests to mastering the disassembly and reassembly of weapons, his military career was marked by continuous learning and improvement. These skills not only defined his time in service but also shaped a resilient mindset that would serve him well in civilian life.
The Struggle of Transition
Transitioning into civilian life proved challenging for Viko, as it does for many veterans. Despite the various programs aimed at facilitating this transition, including the military’s yellow ribbon initiative and resume workshops, he found them lacking in practical value. As he notes:
"Most veterans don’t know how to translate their skills to civilian jobs. The programs available don’t address the real challenges we face in finding meaningful employment."
Faced with financial struggles and uncertainty, Viko's adjustment was compounded by mental health challenges. At one point, he was homeless, grappling with PTSD, and experiencing severe emotional distress—a common plight among veterans. His darkest moment came when he found himself contemplating suicide. It was only the intervention of his loyal dog, Monty, that saved his life:
"I was at my lowest, with no way out, but Monty saved me. His presence and unwavering loyalty provided the wake-up call I desperately needed."
Discovering a New Therapy
An unexpected but effective therapy for Viko was karaoke. Singing in public shifted his focus away from his inner turmoil, providing momentary relief from PTSD:
"Singing forced me to focus on the present, silencing my inner demons. Karaoke became a surprisingly effective therapy for me."
This newfound passion for karaoke reduced the frequency of his PTSD episodes, offering a creative outlet for his emotions and establishing a new, positive habit.
Embracing Entrepreneurship
Driven by a desire to create a lasting legacy and support the veteran community, Viko founded The Bearded Viking Mead Company. Located in Columbus, Montana, the company aims to foster community and promote mental health awareness through the production of high-quality mead.
"We opened on May 3rd and had 1,000 people at our door. Our mission is to bring people together, promote mental health, and create a supportive community. We believe in being kind and creating safe spaces for open conversations."
Since its inception, The Bearded Viking Mead Company has grown rapidly, shipping to 42 states and offering 16 unique flavors of mead. The business is more than a commercial venture; it is a testament to Viko’s commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of life post-military service.
Advocacy and Community Building
Viko continues to advocate for mental health awareness and support fellow veterans. His company's ethos revolves around fostering connections and promoting resilience:
"I embrace challenges to improve myself and help others. Resilience and community are vital. My business and life goals are driven by this mission."
Setting an example through his own journey, Viko encourages veterans to seek out activities that bring them joy and help manage their mental health. He often emphasizes the importance of support systems and finding healthy outlets for stress and anxiety.
Conclusion: A Tale of Resilience and Purpose
Viko’s story highlights the power of resilience and the importance of community support. From the battlefield to building a successful business, his journey is a powerful example of how veterans can transform their lives through determination and a sense of purpose.
We invite you to support The Bearded Viking Mead Company. By purchasing their world-class mead or participating in mental health awareness initiatives, your support contributes to a meaningful mission that honors and supports our veterans.
As Viko often says: “Cheers and Mead Up.” Let us honor our veterans by fostering connections, promoting mental health, and celebrating resilience.
Be sure to check out the Bearded Viking Mead company!
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