The Horesman's Tale: Vietnam, Horsemanship, Love, & Mental Health

Send us a text

Today, I sit down with Tom Equels, a Vietnam veteran, attorney, CEO, and author of The Horseman’s Tale. Mr. Equels began his career as a young Army helicopter pilot flying Cobra gunships in Vietnam before going on to become an instructor pilot, earn his law degree, and eventually lead an immunology research and development company. But his book is not just about war — it’s a deeply personal novel that weaves together combat, love, family, horses, and the lasting mental health impact of service.

In this conversation, Mr. Equels and I discuss how The Horseman’s Tale was inspired by the Camp Lejeune water contamination tragedy and his years of writing horse stories. The novel blends Vietnam War experiences with themes of PTSD, journaling therapy, family struggles, and the healing power of horses. We talk about the protagonist, Jake Montgomery, a retired Marine whose life unravels as he begins journaling through layers of grief, trauma, and love — a story that reflects the very real experiences of veterans today.

We also explore faith, forgiveness, and the role of equine empathy in recovery. Mr. Equels shares how horses mirror human emotions, teaching patience, humility, and unconditional love — lessons that apply to leadership, family, and healing from trauma. Along the way, we touch on adult themes of violence, sexuality, and self-forgiveness, all tied to a central message: you cannot fully love others until you forgive and love yourself. This episode is a unique blend of war stories, horsemanship, and psychological insight that will resonate with veterans, horse lovers, and anyone interested in stories of resilience, healing, and faith.

Mr. Equel's Book
https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/the-horsemans-tale-pre-order

Previous Vietnam Episodes:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leading-a-platoon-at-20-vietnam-combat/id1657865479?i=1000628989830

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/naval-combat-in-vietnam-capturing-skunk-alpha/id1657865479?i=1000621492670

Website: https://coupleonukes.com

Exodus, Honor Your Heart, & Thrive Alcohol Recovery: https://www.coupleonukes.com/affiliates/

Want to be a guest on Couple O' Nukes? Send me a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1726279485588093e83e0e007

Sign Up For A PodMatch Account: https://www.joinpodmatch.com/coupleonukes

*Couple O' Nukes LLC and Mr. Whiskey are not licensed medical entities, nor do they take responsibility for any advice or information put forth by guests. Take all advice at your own risk.