Summary

In this episode of the Ready to Fight podcast, host Bruce Kimbrell interviews Brandon Bettis, a former infantry officer and current holistic financial planner. Brandon shares his journey from a conservative childhood in Phoenix, Arizona, to his decision to join the Army, influenced by his father's military background. He discusses his experiences in Officer Candidate School, the challenges of leading troops in combat, and the impact of his military service on his family life. The conversation also touches on Brandon's transition to civilian life and his ongoing commitment to serving veterans through the Mighty Oaks Foundation. In this conversation, Brandon Bettis shares his journey from military life to civilian struggles, including personal and marital challenges. He discusses his spiritual journey, the impact of the Mighty Oaks program, and a transformative reflection walk that led him to submit his life to Jesus. Brandon emphasizes the importance of faith, family dynamics, and the ongoing journey of healing and helping others through his testimony.

Takeaways

Brandon's childhood was shaped by a conservative upbringing and a strong family bond.

His father's military service inspired him to join the Army.

Brandon faced challenges in Officer Candidate School but persevered to become an officer.

He learned the importance of listening to experienced NCOs as a young leader.

Brandon's first deployment was to the Korngal Valley, a high-intensity combat area.

He experienced a love-hate relationship with Fort Benning during his training.

Brandon's wife, Erin, played a crucial role in supporting him through military life.

The couple's early marriage was marked by the challenges of deployment and family life.

Brandon reflects on the importance of establishing a relationship with his daughter after returning from deployment.

He emphasizes the significance of leadership and camaraderie in the military. Brandon left the Army in 2016 due to fears of being kicked out.

He experienced personal struggles and marital challenges during his military service.

Brandon's relationship with his wife was strained due to his selfishness and military commitments.

He had no relationship with God during his military service and identified as agnostic then atheist.

The Mighty Oaks program was a pivotal moment in Brandon's life.

A reflection walk led to his submission to Jesus on May 21, 2021.

Brandon's journey included confessing sins and navigating marriage challenges post-conversion.

His wife and daughters eventually embraced Christianity after his transformation.

Brandon emphasizes the importance of mentorship and asking hard questions about faith.

He aims to help others by sharing his testimony and experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brandon Bettis

01:37 Childhood and Early Influences

05:45 Military Aspirations and Joining the Army

09:27 Officer Candidate School (OCS) Experience

14:41 Post-OCS Training and Branch Assignment

22:04 Meeting Erin: Love Story in the Military

27:46 The Challenges of Military Family Life

30:16 Leadership in Combat: A New Role

37:37 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

43:31 Personal Struggles and Marital Challenges

47:28 A Journey to Faith and Spirituality

52:49 Finding Purpose: The Mighty Oaks Experience

54:57 Investing in Mental Health

56:18 The Journey to Mighty Oaks

57:59 Faith and Doubt: A Personal Testimony

59:35 The Reflection Walk: A Life-Changing Moment

01:03:12 Life After Surrendering to Jesus

01:05:21 Navigating Challenges in Faith and Family

01:09:50 The Impact of Confession and Forgiveness

01:13:25 Sharing the Gospel: A New Mission

01:20:10 Encouragement for Others on Their Journey