There are moments in life, and in podcasting, when something shifts.
This was one of those moments.
In our latest episode, Tough Guys Are an Endangered Species, we opened a door that many still keep firmly shut:
What happens when men feel broken, lost, and alone, and why don’t we talk about it?
This wasn’t just another chat.
It was an honest, emotional, and transformative conversation between three men who know the weight of silence all too well.
👊 Meet Skip – A Man Who’s Walked Through Fire
Our guest, Dr. “Skip” Mondragon, is a retired Army Colonel, physician, national wrestling champion, and author of Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps.
But more than anything, Skip is a man who’s faced the dark and chose to speak up so others might find their way out.
💬 “This isn’t weakness. This is bravery in its purest form.”
What unfolded in this episode was raw, powerful, and healing.
Together, Chris Aggett, Chris Hooley, and Skip shared real stories and serious truths:
Growing up believing tears were failure.
The silent weight of loneliness.
Facing the edge, and choosing to step back.
The vital need for a “Battle Buddy” — someone who truly sees you.
The impossible choice between addiction, faith, or suicide.
Why talking could be the difference between life and loss.
🧠 Real Talk, Real Tools
This episode offers more than just awareness—it gives practical support.
You’ll come away with:
Steps to take today if you’re struggling
How to help someone else who might be
Why asking for help is true strength
How to find, or be someone’s Battle Buddy
A new definition of masculinity that leaves no one behind
🚨 You Are Not Alone: Support Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait to ask for help.
UK Support
📞 Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)
📱 SHOUT Crisis Text Line – Text SHOUT to 85258
US Support
📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988 (free, 24/7)
📱 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741
Wherever you are in the world, you can find support. You matter.
And you’re never as alone as you think.
📘 Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps
Lessons Learned from an Amateur Wrestler’s Fight to Triumph Over Depression
Author: Dr. Skip Mondragón - Wrestling Depression Is Not For Wimps.
In Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps, Dr. Skip Mondragón—a retired U.S. Army Medical Corps Colonel, Iraqi War veteran, and National Veterans Wrestling Champion, shares his personal journey through depression. Drawing parallels between the discipline of wrestling and the battle against mental illness, he offers practical strategies to overcome depression. The book emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the power of community, and the role of faith in recovery. Written in accessible language with short, actionable chapters, it's a valuable resource for anyone grappling with depression or supporting someone who is.
Purchase the book:
Amazon – Wrestling Depression Is Not for Wimps
🖤 To Every Listener: You Are Not Broken
We all wear masks.
We all carry things we don’t talk about.
Sometimes, just hearing someone say “me too” is enough to make it through another day.
Let this episode be that voice.
Whether you’re battling dark thoughts or just feeling low and invisible, this is your reminder: there’s no shame in hurting, and no shame in healing.
We’re so grateful to Skip for his honesty and to all of you for being here.
Together, we can end the silence.
Together, we can be better.
THE WCCS - TOGETHER AS ONE WE GET IT DONE.
🖤
~ CJ Aggett & Chris Hooley.
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