Creating a New Normal: Antoinette Lee’s Journey from Army Medic to Adventure Advocate

On this episode of Helping the Brave, host Ed Parcaut sits down with Antoinette Lee—Army veteran, traumatic brain injury survivor, adventure sports athlete, and founder of the American Adventure Sports Club—to talk about resilience, redefining your "new normal," and empowering others through the healing power of nature.

Antoinette Lee shares her inspiring journey from serving in the Army as an expert field medic to overcoming a life-altering injury. She opens up about the challenges faced in returning to civilian life, navigating the VA benefits system, and breaking through stereotypes in both tech and outdoor sports. Discover how adventure sports like archery and whitewater kayaking not only helped her rebuild physically and mentally, but also sparked a mission to help others—especially children and families—get outdoors, heal, and create big lives, no matter their circumstances.

Ed Parcaut and Antoinette Lee also discuss the importance of advocating for yourself in the VA benefits process, the impact of finding community after service, and how you can use your experiences to make a difference.

Key topics:
Military service and family legacy
Overcoming injuries and trauma
Navigating the VA and disability systems
The "new normal" after military life
Creating accessible outdoor experiences for all
Mental health, PTSD, and moral injury
Building a support network for veterans and civilians alike

Learn more about Antoinette and her work:
Podcast: New Normal, Big Life (available on all podcast platforms)
American Adventure Sports Club: aasc.org
Instagram: @nnblpodcast
TikTok: @newnormalbiglifepodcast
X/Twitter: @nnbl_blog

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with fellow veterans and anyone committed to helping others find courage and community. For more inspiring conversations, check out the Helping the Brave podcast.