Blood, Tears, and Purple Hearts: Brian Ricketts on Veterans, Stigma, and Hope
Release Date: 06/30/2025
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info_outlineIn this inspiring episode of the Two Promises Podcast, we sit down with Brian Ricketts, veteran, advocate, and author of Blood, Tears, and Purple Hearts. Brian shares his mission to highlight the mental health challenges faced by veterans—especially female soldiers—and to combat the stigma that often follows service. He delves into the psychological aftermath of combat, the healing role of support animals, and the urgency of veteran advocacy. His message is clear: “If you send them, you must mend them.”
What We Talk About
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Real stories behind Blood, Tears, and Purple Hearts
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Mental health struggles of female service members
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Social stigma faced by returning veterans
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Long-term impacts of combat on mental health
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Importance of strong support systems
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The power of support animals in recovery
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Brian’s advocacy and hope for generational change
What We Mention
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Facebook: Brian J. Ricketts – Author
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Buy the Book: Blood, Tears, & Purple Hearts (Amazon) (amazon.com)
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A portion of proceeds supports veteran mental health charities
Timestamps
⏳ [00:00] Intro Music
⏳ [00:57] Brian Ricketts and His Journey
⏳ [02:17] Themes of Blood, Tears, and Purple Hearts
⏳ [07:27] Social Stigma After Service
⏳ [10:04] Mental Health Challenges in the Military
⏳ [18:53] The Healing Role of Support Animals
⏳ [24:17] Broader Message & Global Vision
⏳ [33:59] Brian’s Invitation to Buy the Book
⏳ [38:19] Outro Music
Brian’s story reminds us that the duty to care for veterans doesn’t end with deployment. Follow him on social media, check out his book, and support the vital mission to mend the wounds that aren’t visible but are deeply felt.