
Life Well Balanced Podcast
Life Well Balanced is a podcast about what it truly means to live a fulfilled, harmonious life, at work, at home, and within yourself. Hosted by Nick Houpt, each episode features real conversations with inspiring guests who share stories, tools, and habits that support mental wellness, emotional resilience, and intentional living.
Whether you're navigating burnout, seeking more presence in your relationships, or simply trying to find steadier ground, this show offers practical wisdom and actionable strategies to help you create better balance in everyday life.
Our mission is to inspire and empower people to live healthier, more present, and purpose-driven lives. Our vision is to be a trusted resource for anyone committed to growth, joy, connection, and meaningful change.
Tune in for grounded insights, honest dialogue, and the kind of conversations that help you feel more aligned, no matter where you are on your journey.
Life Well Balanced Podcast
Through the Storm: Mental Health, Mission, and Military Life with Stephen Crook
What happens after 20 years in uniform, when the mission ends, but the mental storm continues?
In this vulnerable and energizing episode, Stephen Crook, Coast Guard veteran and founder of Through the Storm Apparel, opens up about PTSD, identity, and the quiet battles veterans face long after deployment. From launching a one-for-one apparel brand to personally stepping in to save fellow service members in crisis, Stephen shares what it takes to lead with heart, heal out loud, and balance life after service.
In this episode, we explore:
- What coming home really looks like after deployment
- Why therapy isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom
- How breathwork, structure, and fitness became Stephen’s tools for resilience
- The emotional toll of leadership and the healing power of giving back
- What it means to redefine masculinity, vulnerability, and purpose after military life
Whether you’re a veteran, a parent, a partner, or just someone navigating life’s chaos, this episode will move you.
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🎧 Learn more about Through the Storm Apparel: throughtthestorm.shop
🔗 Connect with Stephen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-crook-75608791/
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Hosted by Nick Houpt: linkedin.com/in/nicolas-houpt-b21b9b45/ | Executive Produced by Steven Baxendale: linkedin.com/in/steven-r-baxendale/
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Want to get in touch or share your thoughts?
Email us at: Lifewellbalancedpodcast@gmail.com