Episode #309
I Quit Drinking and Found My Path in Film
I foreground Kenny Hernandez’s transformation from a combat Ranger and military intelligence soldier into a sober, purpose-driven filmmaker who now channels his lived experience into veteran advocacy. We recount his enlistment after 9/11, his service and Ranger indoctrination, and the profound difficulties he endured during transition, most notably alcohol dependence and PTSD. I describe his multi‑year recovery, the vocational pivot to establish In House Media, and his cinematic work with Warrior Built and veteran events including the Johnson Valley flag project. We emphasize his practical role in securing treatment for fellow veterans, notably arranging his brother’s placement at Camp Hope through coordination with the PTSD Foundation of America. I note his ongoing contributions to the veteran community through media, racing support, and peer camaraderie, and we provide contact avenues: Instagram @KenChase831 and InHouseMediaPro.com for those seeking collaboration or assistance. Throughout, we present a candid account that underscores resilience, collective responsibility, and concrete pathways to recovery and renewed purpose. Takeaways: I joined the Army soon after 9/11, and that event strongly motivated my service and sense of duty. I became a Ranger and later struggled with alcohol and PTSD during my transition back to civilian life. I spent many years in recovery and am now sober, which transformed my family relationships and work focus. We use Warrior Built and veteran groups to provide camaraderie and practical help for veterans with trauma and reintegration. I built InHouse Media after film school and vocational support, and I now produce steady content for veteran causes and music events. I helped my brother enter an inpatient program at Camp Hope, and he quit drinking and rebuilt his life. We stress that peer support and veteran-focused programs are essential to reduce isolation, lower suicide risk, and restore purpose. I encourage veterans to pursue passion projects, accept help early, and join communities that understand combat experience.
