What happens when the person trained to stay calm in crisis reaches their breaking point?
That’s what I unpack in my latest podcast conversation with Sandy Drysdale—a retired Air Force pilot, veteran of 23 years, father, and founder of Stravagan Coaching. Sandy’s story isn’t just about military service or mental health. It’s about what happens after the mission ends, when identity shifts and purpose feels lost.
A Career of Control—Until He Couldn’t Anymore
Sandy spent most of his adult life in high-stakes environments, responsible for missions that required precision, speed, and control. From combat zones to leading elite teams, he thrived under pressure. But when the structure of military life faded, so did the clarity of his next steps.
He began to feel something many high achievers can relate to: that without a defined mission, things start to unravel. And when personal life challenges collided with false accusations and career shifts, Sandy hit a place he never expected—he sat at his kitchen table convinced that removing himself from the equation was the solution.
Thankfully, someone heard him. And that moment of being seen was the first step back.
What We Talked About:
- How high-functioning people can hide deep pain
- The real cost of never asking for help
- Why understanding yourself is critical for healing
- What Sandy learned from trauma, grief, and nearly losing himself
- Simple tools that helped him reset: cycling, therapy, and defining his “why”
“Resilience can be dangerous if it keeps you from asking for help.”
One of the most powerful parts of our conversation was this: Sandy didn’t hit rock bottom because he lacked tools—he hit it because he believed he shouldn’t need them.
This episode is a reminder that strength isn’t about doing it alone. It’s about knowing when it’s time to lean in and let someone else hold space for you.
If You’re Reading This and You’re Struggling:
Please know—you’re not alone, even if it feels that way. Reach out. Talk to someone. You’re not a burden. You are not the problem. You are loved, and you are worth the support. Check out http://learn.mymentalsummit.com
If you don’t know where to start, reach out to Sandy directly. He offered his ear to anyone who needs it:
📧enquiries@stravaigincoaching.com
🌐 stravegancoaching.com
Listen to the Full Episode Here:
🎧 https://youtu.be/PY5Mq8ZEu6o?si=OjxBFLdXU5TE7LBD or Spotify