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In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Ben "Doc" Askins, a former combat medic turned psychiatric physician assistant, who brings a wealth of experience in trauma therapy and unconventional healing. With nearly two decades in military medicine and a specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Ben challenges the traditional Hero’s Journey narrative and instead explores the path of the Anti-Hero—a journey that delves into the raw, real, and often messy truths of self-discovery. Through his unique insights, Ben shares how confronting trauma and embracing empathy are essential for true healing.
This conversation is for anyone grappling with their own inner battles or seeking to make peace with past traumas. Together, we uncover practical steps to break free from self-deception, build meaningful connections, and find empathy not only for others but also for ourselves. Join us as we unpack a new approach to healing—one that is unfiltered, authentic, and ultimately empowering.
About this Guest
Ben "Doc" Askins is a former combat medic and psychiatric physician assistant with nearly two decades of experience in trauma care and therapy. Certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Ben blends traditional medicine with innovative approaches to healing. As the author of Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces, he challenges conventional narratives of growth, offering raw insights on trauma, empathy, and self-discovery. Through his work, Ben inspires others to confront their struggles and embrace authentic transformation.
Website: https://www.antiherosjourney.com/
Clinical Website: https://advancedpracticeproviders.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092659881992
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@antiherosjourney
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DocAskins
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docaskins/
Listen on Apple Podcast: https://bit.ly/4i0IPdZ
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7s1F3KGETzxT8c4GGyQvcj?si=vAl-7o25RKSHlRr_60Ut-Q
Download as an MP3: https://bit.ly/3B3UXKn
Anti-Hero's Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces: A Warped War Memoir on the Way to Enlightenment By Ben "Doc" Askins: https://amzn.to/4hZDDHc
People & Other Mentions
Maps (MultiDisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies): https://maps.org/
The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell) by Joseph Campbell: https://amzn.to/3AgDcaB
Transpersonal Psychology: https://meridianuniversity.edu/content/what-is-transpersonal-psychology
Dr. Stanislav "Stan" Grof: https://www.stangrof.com/
Carl Jung: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Jung
Carl Jung Shadow: https://www.thesap.org.uk/articles-on-jungian-psychology-2/about-analysis-and-therapy/the-shadow/
Deadpool: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadpool
Karpman Drama Triangle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karpman_drama_triangle
Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: A Systematic Individual and Social Psychiatry by Eric Berne: https://amzn.to/4hw7ZAW
Transactional Analysis Theory & Therapy: Eric Berne: https://www.simplypsychology.org/transactional-analysis-eric-berne.html
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller: https://amzn.to/3UWty42
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk: https://amzn.to/3ZcvUNB
On Combat: The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and Peace by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman: https://amzn.to/48YfSLn
David Goggins: https://davidgoggins.com/
Jocko Willink: https://jocko.com/
Default Mode Network: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/basics/default-mode-network
Graham Priest: https://grahampriest.net/
MDMA: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MDMA
0:00 Intro
0:39 About Ben "Doc" Askins
2:20 Exploring the Zero Myth and the Antihero's Journey
5:03 Integrating the Shadow Self
9:48 Transactional Analysis and the Karpman Drama Triangle
19:16 Parenting and the Antihero's Journey
23:52 Leadership Lessons from the Military
31:49 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
34:36 Exploring Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness
40:43 The Role of Endurance and High Performance
43:32 MDMA and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
54:31 Philosophical Reflections on Life and Death
01:01:48 Integrating Philosophy and Spirituality
01:06:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts