Army Veteran Uses Cooking Show to Tackle Mental Health and Loss in Military Families

Published Jun 10, 2026, 3:00 AM EDT

Searching for a way to connect with veterans, Cory Brown started "Eat Your Feelings" on YouTube, tackling hard topics through kitchen comfort.

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Published Jun 10, 2026, 3:00 AM EDT

​After Cory Brown left the Army in 2015 after serving more than 16 years, he felt lost and isolated, missing the camaraderie and responsibility he enjoyed in the military. Body and mind still flowing with adrenaline and nervous energy, Brown needed to find a way to channel his anxiety. He turned to the thing he loved almost as much as Army life, cooking. Brown challenged himself to master complex recipes and prepare home-cooked dishes, not only rekindling a passion, but rediscovering how to connect with people. He also found a way to bond with other veterans in the kitchen. Last fall, Brown, along with co-host Sam Nathews, debuted “Eat Your Feelings” on YouTube. And it’s not your classic cooking show. Blending humor, vulnerability and honesty, Brown, Nathews and guests discuss real issues affecting veterans, such as emotional loss and mental health struggles.