Ep 1. Wrestling PTSD

In the first episode of Klepper Season 1 titled "Wrestling PTSD," former Daily Show correspondent Jordan Klepper explores the intersection of professional wrestling and veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Klepper begins the episode by acknowledging his own ignorance regarding wrestling and its fans, stating that he has always viewed it as "fake" and a form of entertainment for lowbrow tastes. However, he quickly learns that the wrestlers themselves often come from military backgrounds and that many veterans find solace in the camaraderie and physicality of wrestling.

Klepper interviews several veterans who have turned to wrestling as a form of therapy. One man, a Marine who served in Iraq, describes how participating in wrestling events has helped him cope with his PTSD and find a renewed sense of purpose. Another veteran, a former Army medic, explains that being in the ring allows him to tap into his aggression in a constructive way, rather than letting it consume him in destructive ways outside the ring.

Throughout the episode, Klepper attends a wrestling boot camp for veterans run by a retired wrestler known as "Balls Mahoney." Klepper learns the ropes (quite literally) and gains a newfound respect for the physical and mental demands of wrestling. He also witnesses the close bond between the veterans in the class and the profound impact that wrestling has had on their lives.

The episode also delves into the dark side of wrestling, particularly its history of glorifying violence and toxic masculinity. Klepper talks with an expert on the intersection of wrestling and mental health, who explains how this culture can be both healing and harmful for veterans with PTSD.

Overall, Klepper Season 1 Episode 1 provides a thought-provoking look at the role of wrestling in the lives of veterans struggling with PTSD. Klepper's open-minded approach and willingness to learn makes for an engaging and empathetic exploration of a subject that is often dismissed or misunderstood.