The episode covers a detailed discussion about brain injury, veteran suicide, and military health initiatives. Dr. Kenneth T. Davis, founder of the BIED Society, shares his extensive military and professional background, including service as a Marine Corps officer and various roles in government and academia. He discusses how the BIED Society evolved from focusing on international affairs to addressing brain injury issues among veterans.
Dr. Kenneth T. Davis's Military and Professional Background
Dr. Davis shares his background from Trenton, Michigan, including his Marine Corps service during post-9/11 era, involvement in the Battle of Fallujah (2004), and subsequent roles in finance and academia. He details his experience across 77 countries and various positions in government, including work with the Treasury, Defense Health Agency, and as Army Deputy Chief of Senate Liaison Division.
BIED Society Formation and Evolution
Dr. Davis explains how the Behavioral International Economic Development Society was founded, initially targeting young students but evolving to serve mid-career professionals. During COVID-19, the organization expanded to include 97 full-time students in both 2020 and 2021, leading to its conversion to a 501c3 non-profit status.
Brain Injury Research and Military Health Initiative
Discussion centers on the critical need for brain injury screening in military personnel, highlighting that current psychiatric approaches ($1.5 billion invested) haven't effectively reduced suicide rates. Dr. Davis emphasizes the importance of mandatory MRI scans and discusses various sources of brain injury, including combat, training, and environmental factors.
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The conversation highlights a critical concern about the relationship between brain injuries and suicide rates among military personnel. Dr. Davis emphasizes that while $1.5 billion has been directed toward psychiatric care over the past 15 years, suicide rates remain high not just in the US military but also in other countries' forces and first responder communities. He argues for a shift in approach, suggesting mandatory MRI scanning for military personnel both at entry and exit points.
