Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show Episode: MORGAN: Scotty Survived Ten Gunshots in an Ambush, Then Found His Voice in Music
Host: Morgan Huelsman
Guest: Scotty Hasting
Release Date: August 10, 2025
Duration: Approximately 56 minutes

Introduction

In this deeply moving episode of The Bobby Bones Show, host Morgan Huelsman welcomes Scotty Hasting, a veteran whose harrowing experiences in the military and subsequent journey into music offer listeners a profound narrative of resilience and transformation.

Scotty's Military Background

Scotty Hasting begins by sharing his early life in the Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky area, where he played semi-professional baseball. Seeking a greater purpose, Scotty enlisted in the Army, driven by a desire to be part of something meaningful.

Scotty Hasting [04:00]: "I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. Joining the Army was my way of contributing to something that mattered."

The Ambush and Injury

Shortly after completing basic training at Fort Benning, Scotty was deployed to Afghanistan. During his first deployment, he found himself in a relentless firefight in the Kandahar province. On April 21, 2011, Scotty was ambushed and shot ten times in a sudden attack.

Scotty Hasting [06:27]: "I walked up on a guy who had a rifle behind his back, and he just started spraying... I ended up getting hit ten times."

Throughout the attack, Scotty remained conscious but severely injured, struggling to crawl towards his fellow soldiers amidst the chaos.

Recovery and Hospitalization

After the ambush, Scotty was swiftly transported to the Kandahar airfield and then to a trauma room where medical professionals worked tirelessly to save his life. He experienced significant blood loss, causing his eyesight to dim as his body began shutting down.

Scotty Hasting [07:01]: "I remember saying, 'I can see my eyesight's coming back,' and a lady leaned down and said, 'It's okay for you to go to sleep now.' I fought to stay awake until I was in the hospital."

Scotty recounts the eerie moment when he heard a comforting voice during his critical state—a voice he later discovered wasn’t present in the room.

Struggles and Turning Points

Post-surgery, Scotty faced the reality of his injuries, including nerve damage that left his arm numb below the elbow. Back at Walter Reed, he grappled with severe trauma, survivor's guilt, and the impending responsibility of fatherhood.

Scotty Hasting [25:31]: "Those two hours of crying was 100% understanding that life is different now... I made the decision that I was going to live my life to the fullest."

A pivotal moment came when he heard Trace Atkins' song "Till Lost Shots Fired," which catalyzed his determination to overcome his circumstances and dedicate his life to honoring fallen comrades through music.

Discovery of Music as Therapy

Facing the limitations imposed by his injuries and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Scotty turned to the guitar as a new form of therapy. Teaching himself to play and write songs became a vital outlet for his emotions.

Scotty Hasting [36:12]: "Learning how to play the guitar was going to be hard enough to where it's something that I'm truly going to have to focus all my time into."

Through songwriting, Scotty found a means to process his PTSD, depression, and anxiety, transforming his pain into powerful music that resonates with others.

Journey into Archery and Adaptive Sports

During his recovery at Fort Riley, Scotty engaged in adaptive sports, particularly archery. Despite initial setbacks, he persevered, eventually representing the United States in the Paralympic program for six years.

Scotty Hasting [33:00]: "I found an amazing escape and an amazing purpose in archery... I lived for those seven seconds."

Archery provided Scotty with moments of clarity and focus, helping him manage his mental health by immersing himself fully in the sport.

Overcoming Trauma through Music

Scotty's dedication to music led him to Nashville, where a serendipitous encounter with Michael Kerr, son of Black River Entertainment's CEO, Gordon Kerr, paved the way for his musical career. This meeting resulted in Scotty signing a record deal and publishing agreement, enabling him to share his story on a larger platform.

Scotty Hasting [47:06]: "I went into Black River, and I met Doug... It was so cool to hear that."

Collaborations with renowned artists like Trace Atkins and Dolly Parton further amplified his message of hope and resilience.

Connection with Famous Artists

One of the most touching moments in Scotty's journey was his collaboration with Trace Atkins and the unexpected involvement of Dolly Parton in his song "Till Lost Shots Fired." This collaboration not only honored his fallen friends but also underscored the profound impact of his music.

Scotty Hasting [50:43]: "When I heard Dolly Parton wanted to be part of my song, I had to pull over and cry. It meant so much to have her support."

Current Work and Future Aspirations

Today, Scotty continues to make music, using his talents to support fellow veterans and raise awareness about the struggles they face. His involvement with Creative Vets and ongoing performances serve as a testament to his unwavering spirit and commitment to healing through art.

Scotty Hasting [43:54]: "I needed something. I've lost too many buddies, and I wasn't going to be another one of them."

Conclusion

Scotty Hasting's story is one of unimaginable adversity met with incredible strength and creativity. From surviving an ambush in Afghanistan to finding solace and purpose in music, his journey offers inspiration and a powerful message of hope to veterans and civilians alike.

Morgan Huelsman [44:16]: "Scotty, you're an incredible person. Your story is one of determination and hope."

Listeners are encouraged to support Scotty's music and his ongoing efforts to make a difference in the lives of others through his art and advocacy.

Follow Scotty Hasting:

• Music: Scotty Hasting Music
• Social Media: Follow on all major platforms under Scotty Hasting Music

This summary captures the essence of Scotty Hasting's compelling narrative as discussed in the episode, highlighting his heroic survival, the emotional and physical challenges he faced, and his triumphant rise as a musician using his experiences to inspire and heal.