This episode of Leadership From the Heart features a powerful and deeply moving conversation with Dr. Carrie Elk, founder of The Elk Institute for Psychological Health and Performance. Joined by hosts Renee Funk and Elizabeth Riley, the discussion explores trauma recovery, resilience, mental health, and the life-changing work being done to support military service members and veterans struggling with PTSD.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Elk shares the personal journey that led her into military mental health work, including her own battle with cancer and the calling she felt to serve others through healing. She explains how trauma is often an “information storage issue,” not a sign of weakness, and offers insight into helping veterans process traumatic experiences in a way that allows them to move forward without carrying the emotional weight into everyday life.

The conversation also touches on anxiety, leadership, purpose, and the importance of adapting how we serve others based on their unique needs and experiences. With compassion, humility, and remarkable wisdom, Dr. Elk reminds viewers that true leadership from the heart begins with asking one simple question: “How can I be useful?”