SOFspot

We are honored to feature ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven in SOFspot Episode #70. He pulls from his legendary SOF career to share his views of leadership, the future of SOF, and the importance of international partnerships. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the greats!ADM (Ret) William H. McRaven's Books:https://www.amazon.com/stores/William-H.-McRaven/author/B000APSSE0?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueUpcoming GSOF Events:https://gsof.org/global-sof-events-listing/Support the show

Chelsea sat down with Colonel (R) Jeffrey H. Fischer, a successful author of thrillers and an experienced journalist in international security with a 30-year military career. His service includes seven combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, and he's taken inspiration and experiences from those deployments for his Curt Nover military fiction thriller series. He and his wife have also started a non-profit in Vienna called "Shelter2Service," training shelter dogs to support military Veterans living in Europe. They discuss all of that and more in this episode of SOFspot.Buy Jeff Fischer's Books:https://www.jeffreyhfischer.com/novelsHighlighted GSOF Events:- GSOF Symposium Europe, 24-26 OCT, Brno Czech Republichttps://www.gsofeurope.org/- Modern Warfare Week, 13-16 NOV, Fayetteville, NChttps://mww.gsofsymposium.org/Support the show

The Global SOF Team is BACK in your pod-feed! After a year-long hiatus from SOFspot, we're returning with all new episodes. A lot has happened for Global SOF since Summer '22, so Stu, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Jenn got together to discuss just what HAS happened over the course of the past year. From SOF Week to growing the team to policy education, we hit on everything you should know as members of the Global SOF community.As always, you can learn more about the Foundation at www.gsof.org.Support the show

In this episode, we discuss military family building and fertility issues. While we DO talk about freezing sperm samples, more importantly we discuss the breadth of the family planning issue in the SOF community, how it's impacting retention, and what policy changes Congress needs to make to support our Special Ops families. Our experts today come from the Military Family Building Coalition and Legacy:Ellen Gustafson, MFBC Co-FounderKaty Bell Hendrickson, MFBC Co-FounderJohn Crowley, Legacy Military AffairsListen to hear from these three experts about this issue and why it's so important that we support their efforts to change US policy on military fertility options.--------Military Family Building Coalitionhttps://www.militaryfamilybuilding.orgLegacy https://www.givelegacy.com/military/https://www.givelegacy.com/nsw/Blue Star Family Survey Resultshttps://bluestarfam.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/BSF_MFLS_Results2021_Family-Building_03_10.pdfEVENT - GSOF Symposium Europehttps://www.gsofeurope.orgEVENT - Modern Warfare Weekhttps://mww.gsofsymposium.orgGlobal SOF Partner Highlight - CAE USAhttp://cae.comSupport the show

In this episode of SOFspot, GSOF President and CEO Stu Bradin talks to Toby Harnden, an author and journalist who was awarded the Orwell Prize for Books in 2012.He also wrote "First Casualty: The Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11," which was published in Sept 2021 and tells the story of Team Alpha, an "eclectic band of linguists, tribal experts, and elite warriors who were the first Americans to operate inside Taliban territory after 9/11."Listen on to hear about what inspired Toby to write the book, how he got to know the team, and what it took to get the interviews and details that tell this important story.Buy the Book:https://www.amazon.com/First-Casualty-Untold-Mission-Avenge/dp/0316540951/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=GSOF Partner Highlight: Kymeta Corp.:https://www.kymetacorp.comRegister for the SOF Imperatives Forum:https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=04ba9634-1647-ec11-a3ee-0003ff66d8d0Support the show

In this episode, we continue our series of interviews with experts in Ukraine. Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, who we also interviewed in Episode 61, is back to give more updates on the war in Ukraine, what he thinks it will take to end the war, and the extreme actions he expects the Russians to take against his nation.Learn more about our Sustaining Partner, Peraton:https://www.peraton.comSee our Global SOF Ukraine Hub:https://gsof.org/ukraine/Register for Upcoming Global SOF Events:http://gsof.org/eventsSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In this episode, Stu chats with author John Pomfrets and COL (Ret) Fred Hart about the actions and inspiration behind "From Warsaw with Love," Pomfrets' latest book. COL (Ret) Hart was part of a daring mission in which Polish SOF rescued him and 5 other Americans from Iraq in 1990. Pomfrets tells the story, along with many more that set the scene on the relationship between the US and Poland.Listen on to hear some of the story, and get your copy of "From Warsaw With Love" to read the rest...Buy the Book:https://www.amazon.com/Warsaw-Love-Forging-Unlikely-Alliance/dp/1250296056Corporate Partner Highlight:https://news.northropgrumman.comGlobal SOF Events:https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-eventsSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In this interview, which we recorded on March 17th, we speak with MG (Ret) Mike Repass. He's the former commander of Special Operations Command - Europe, and he's also on our Global SOF Advisory Council.Our CEO and President Stu Bradin spoke with him to get details on some of the lesser-known stories behind the war in Ukraine. They discuss the high-value natural resources that exist in Ukraine, the humanitarian crisis that is building with Ukrainian refugees, and how he sees the war unfolding.Listen for our conversation with MG Retired Mike Repass.-------Global SOF Ukraine Info Sharing Hub:https://gsof.org/ukraine/ Corporate Partner Highlight: Ciscohttps://www.cisco.comSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

As the war in Ukraine continues, our Global SOF team is adding interviews with regional experts to our podcast schedule, including today's guest: GEN Riho Terras.GEN Terras is the former Chief of Defense for Estonia and is currently a Member of European Parliament. He spoke to Chelsea about the current state of the war, why the Russian approach is failing, and what the US and other Partner Nations can do to provide the needed support to stop Vladmir Putin.Corporate Partner Highlight: Maxarhttp://maxar.comGlobal SOF Ukraine Info Hub:https://gsof.org/ukraine/ Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Due to current events, SOFspot will feature periodic interviews with subject matter experts on the War in Ukraine. Today's guest was Oleksandr "Sasha" Danylyuk, chairman of the Ukrainian Center for Defense reforms and a member of Ukrainian government inter-agency platform for countering hybrid threats.In this discussion, we talk about the will of the people of Ukraine, past and present tactics of the Russian Military, and the behavior of Vladimir Putin.Corporate Partner Highlight - CACI:https://www.caci.comSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

It's our first REPEAT guest! Stu sat down with Dr. Seth Jones (also featured in Ep. 42) to discuss his latest book: "Three Dangerous Men: Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare." Seth talks about how the US is woefully unprepared for the future of global competition, and the threats presented by Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov; the deceased Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani; and vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission Zhang Youxia.Who does he think is the most dangerous? You'll have to listen to find out!Buy "Three Dangreous Men":https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324006206See Seth Live at the Special Air Warfare Symposium, 22-24 FEB:https://saws.gsofsymposium.orgPartner Highlight: BRINC Droneshttp://brincdrones.comSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

We sat down with members of the Special Ops Survivors to talk about their organization, its mission, and the way they support the SOF Community. As an organization that supports the spouses of fallen special operators, they play a critical role in the lifelong service of SOF. Our guests were:LTC (Ret) Rob Neitzel, Vice Chairman of Special Ops SurvivorsErik Krame, Executive Director of Special Ops SurvivorsJackie Syverson, a Special Ops Survivor SpouseWe were honored to have them with us to talk about the importance of connection to the SOF community, Special Ops Survivors Programs, and how you can help support their mission.Special Ops Survivors:https://www.specialopssurvivors.orgWorld Wide Technology - Partner Highlight:https://www.wwt.comSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea sat down with three men who have different experiences and perspectives with mental and physical health in the special operations community. She spoke to:COL Mark Ray,  Director of USASOC's Human Performance and Wellness programDr. Phil Wagner, the Founder and CEO of Sparta SciencePhil Gant, recently separated Special Forces and Director of Programs– Ft. Bragg for The Honor Foundation.We talk about how the body needs to be treated as a system, what makes a special operator both physically and mentally, and what people can do to reduce physical or mental health issues.Additional Resources:USASOC HP and Wellness: https://usasoc.hpw.agilesof.comSparta Science: https://spartascience.comThe Honor Foundation: https://www.honor.orgPartner Highlight, Belcan Government Solutions: https://www.belcan.com/solutions/government-solutions/ Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Join KaLea Lehman of the Military Special Operations Family Collaborative for a preview of some of the discussions and topics we have planned for our first virtual "SOF Team Room." She speaks with three of the event's speakers about SOF Legacy, relationships, and the future.Dr. Preston ClineDr. Chris FruehCSM (Ret) Rick LambRegister for this FREE virtual event here:https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=8de575d1-ee23-ec11-b76a-0003fff84a36Read "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" (Referenced Book):https://www.amazon.com/Tribe-Homecoming-Belonging-Sebastian-Junger/dp/1455566381Check out our Highlighted Partner, EY:www.ey.com/en_us/government-public-sectorSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Three men who were heavily involved in the birth of MARSOC share their views on the Command's founding: Major General (Ret) Mark "Droopy" Clark: Served two tours with USSOCOM and Commanded MARSOC from 2012 to 2014 General (Ret) Bryan "Doug" Brown: USSOCOM Commander from 2003 to 2007 Lieutenant General (Ret) Dennis J. Hejlik: The first Commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) from 2006 to 2008See the Video of the Story with Additional Q&A:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zedkXxdoSPgCheck out our Corporate Partner Highlight - ML Horizons:http://www.mlhorizons.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Today's episode features our President and CEO, Stu Bradin and MG (Ret.) Jaime Íñiguez Andrade (with brief cameos from Chelsea and Rick). MG Iñiguez was the first commander of Spain's Joint Special Operations Command. He joined us to talk about his personal history in Special Operations, as well as the growth and establishment of Spanish SOF. He's even written a book about the subject.Buy MG (Ret.) Iniguez's Book:https://www.eljardindeloscuriosos.com/libro/1273/las-acciones-no-(todas)-contadas-de-las-unidades-de-operaciones-especiales-espanolas/ Corporate Partner Spotlight - Cellebrite: https://www.cellebrite.com/en/home/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This Episode comes from our "SOF Story: Live!" on Joint Task Force (JTF) 510 in The Philippines during Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines (OEF-P). It brings together four men who were there in the early 2000s as they discuss their experiences in the island nation. You'll hear from:LTG Retired Donald WursterLTG Retired David FridovichCWO 3 (Ret.) Donald Sikorski, andSGM (Ret.) Mike BoscoFor more content, watch the Full Video Here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j5v6C_PaDsCorporate Partner Highlight, ELTA North America:https://www.eltanorthamerica.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Stu and Chelsea speak with journalist and author Jessica Donati about her new book, "Eagle Down: The Last Special Forces Fighting the Forever War." We talk about how she got to Afghanistan, what moments there impacted her the most, and what led her to write the book. She talks about the impact of the war on the soldiers (and their families) and what she sees for the future of Afghanistan.Get her book wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookstore!----Register for the GSOF 7th Anniversary Reception, 17 MAY in Tampa:https://my.gsof.org/events/event-details/?id=bc093dd2-fac6-4a48-9eaf-58a9a7d47c79Corporate Partner Highlight: Wickr:https://wickr.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In episode 52 of SOFspot, we share excerpts from two of our recent "SOF Stories: Live!" In the first half we listen in on Operators who participated in Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama in 1989/1990. They talk about the roles they played in the mission and some of their favorite memories.Like what you hear? The full story is here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kylz1E2yuQIn the second half we jump in on our SOF Story about the Rescue of Slate 46, one of the most famous rescue missions of Operation DESERT STORM. Listen in as the Air Force operators discuss their memories of that rescue mission in Iraq.Want to hear the rest? The full story is here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jW52m7gRt8Y-------Corporate Partner Highlight:https://wickr.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

The Frogman Swim is an annual 3+ mile swim across Tampa Bay that takes place every January to raise money for our friends at The Navy SEAL Foundation. This year our own Chelsea Hamashin swam it herself, assigned in honor of SOC (SEAL) Matthew D. Mason, so she shares her experience and talks to several folks involved with the swim:- Chris Irwin, Director of Communications at The Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF)- Kurt Ott, NSF Ambassador and Director of the Frogman Swim- Glenn Paige, NSF Ambassador and Board Member, Frogman SwimmerAnd her dad, Lloyd Hamashin, even makes a brief cameo!Link to Donate to Chelsea's Swim for NSF:https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/2021-tampa-bay-frogman-swim/chelseahamashinMore on the Navy SEAL Foundation:https://www.navysealfoundation.org/donate/Global SOF Event: GSOF Symposium - US:https://us.gsofsymposium.org/HomepageGlobal SOF Imperatives for 2021:https://gsofimperatives.org/Fundraiser for The Honor Foundation:https://www.classy.org/event/thf-or-the-next-course/e317671Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Stu interviews COL (Ret) Keith Nightingale, former Army special operator and author of "Phoenix Rising: From the Ashes of Desert One to the Rebirth of U.S. Special Operations." He candidly talks about mistakes made at Operation EAGLE CLAW and the Invasion of Grenada, the formation of US Special Operations Command, and what he thinks the role of the ASD SO/LIC should be. If you like what you hear, you can get COL Nightingale's book on Amazon or your local bookstore:https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Rising-Hostage-Rebirth-Operations/dp/1612008771Corporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepidhttps://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/Global SOF Events:https://my.gsof.org/upcoming-eventsSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Are you active duty SOF or SOF support and dreading your transition to civilian life? Then this podcast is definitely for you. We talk to three separated (or separatING) operators who discuss their unique paths into post-military life. They are:Blake Moore, Former Air Force, currently at WickrEdward "Ted" Handler, Former Marine, currently at STIHLDennis Moore, Retiring SFC U.S. Army RangerThey talk about knowing when it's time, tools to help you get through the transition, and whether or not Ted can surf!The Honor Foundation:https://www.honor.org/Partner Highlight: Wickrhttps://wickr.com/Partner Highlight: Ntrepid Academyhttps://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In this episode of the podcast we share our November 2020 "SOF Story: Live!" on Operation EAGLE CLAW. It features CSM (RET) Rick Lamb and CMSgt (RET) Taco Sanchez, both of whom were involved in EAGLE CLAW and it's follow-on Operation HONEY BADGER.They discuss prepping for the mission, the many challenges that it presented, and why it's important to keep the skills of Special Operations honed. Plus how they work to honor the five Airmen and 3 Marines who were killed on April 25, 1980.Recommended Reading:- Victory on the Potomac by James Locher- Phoenix Rising by Keith NightingaleCorporate Partner Highlight: Ntrepid:https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This episode of SOFspot is an excerpt from our SOF Story: Live event on Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu in October 1993, which was made famous by the book and movie, Black Hawk Down. In this episode, we highlight four men who were really there, and their personal recollections from that day and night. Our speakers are:- CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb- MAJ (Ret) Mike Moser- SGM (Ret) Bart Wiggins- MSG (Ret) Mark StephensWe're honored to have them all with us to share their perspectives, the stories behind their injuries, and the impact that the losses of the day have had on their lives. Watch Full Episodes:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0iFK6ZpwQ4Partner Highlight: CTL-Systemware:https://www.ctl-systemware.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Stu met with Dennis Blasko, a "walking encyclopedia"" on the Chinese Military. Dennis has studied the Chinese language, military, and people since the 1970s through roles with the U.S. Army, traditional schooling, and years of in-country experiences. In this episode we talk about what you can learn from consuming Chinese news media (even if it is propaganda), how their conscription process works, and how China is using more than it's military in the Great Power Competition. Plus–can Stu break a brick over his head??Links to Chinese Sources: - http://english.chinamil.com.cn (English)- http://81.cn (Chinese)Corporate Partner Highlight: Contingent Globalhttps://www.contingentglobal.comSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In episode 45 we talk about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI & ML) with three experts on the subject:- Brian Raymond at Primer.ai- Tim Kelton at Descartes Labs- Abe Usher at Black CapeWe talk about how the DoD is handling this "explosion of data," what capabilities they're most excited about developing in the future, and how they see the DoD workforce being trained in these areas. And of course: the impact of COVID19.Visit the National Security Commission on AI:https://www.nscai.gov/homeCorporate Partner Highlight: TACG Solutions:https://www.tacgsolutions.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Global SOF has launched "SOF Stories: Live!" These are monthly events with current and former SOF operators focused on different topics, and as the name implies, they occur LIVE. But we also record them so if you miss the live event, the stories can continue to be shared and spread on our other platforms.This episode's topic was "The Immediate Aftermath of 9/11," which focused on the chaos after the attacks through several current and former AFSOC operators:- Col. (Ret) Matthew Atkins- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Michael Kingsley- Command CCM Greg Smith- Moderator: CMSgt (Ret) Randy AndersonWatch the Event Video:https://youtu.be/UZeH2hSSmckGlobal SOF Partner Highlight: Comtech Systemshttps://comtechsystems.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Stu spoke with Army SF COL (Ret) Bob Wilson, who commanded special operations forces in combat in Afghanistan and in complex missions across Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America. In his final assignment as an Army officer, Bob served in the White House as a director for counterterrorism in the National Security Council.They discuss being in 7th Group in the 90s, the challenges presented by the austere environments of Africa, and why a light aviation capability like "Armed Overwatch" is important to current and future SOF.Read COL Wilson's Op/Ed:https://www.militarytimes.com/opinion/commentary/2020/08/23/armed-overwatch-a-critical-special-operations-forces-requirement/Ntrepid Academy:https://ntrepidcorp.com/academy/Crisis Response Company:https://crisisresponsecompany.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Global SOF President Stu Bradin talk to Dr. Seth Jones from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Great Power Competition with China, Russia, and Iran. We discuss the way that the US has taken a more conventional approach to the fight while its adversaries have adapted their strategies to meet the challenges of irregular warfare. Dr. Jones talks about what needs to change for the US to "turn the ship around" and posture itself and its partners to better face the realities of this Great Power Competition. Oh, and of course, we talked about Tik Tok.Corporate Partner Highlight - Wickr:https://wickr.com/ram/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

SOFspot is back with episode 41! Chelsea and Rick Lamb interview Jerry, a longtime Operator with Polish SOF Unit "GROM." They discuss how Polish SOF train and recruit, being a "Robocop" after Selection, and the unpredictable threats from their "Eastern Neighbors." Learn More about our 2020 (or 2021) Polish Symposium:https://www.gsofeurope.org/Corporate Partner Spotlight: C2 Essentialshttps://www.c2essentials.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This episode of SOFspot focuses on Operation JUST CAUSE in Panama, and more specifically, the first MaBell Panamanian Surrender Operation at Penonome. Our guests were three men who were in Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), there on the ground in Panama:COL (Retired) David McCracken, who was a Major in 1989 and commanded Charlie CompanyCOL (Retired) Stephen Boston, who was a Captain in 1989 and the Executive Officer of Charlie CompanyCSM (Retired) Rick Lamb, who was a Sergeant First Class in 1989 and performed the duties of a Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in Charlie CompanyWe talk about the logistics of the surrender plus what brought them into the operation at Penonome, why they wore "Mickey Mouse Ears," and how they spent that Christmas in Panama.Just Cause Photo Album:https://www.flickr.com/photos/184952949@N08/albums/72157714476005688/with/49941328773/Partner Spotlight - ByLight:https://bylight.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

In this episode, Global SOF COO Meaghan Keeler-Pettigrew interviews Mr. Peter Singer, the co-author of recently released novel: "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution."They discuss the book, which centers around a terrorist attack in Washington, DC just 10 years in the future, and more specifically the technologies and scenarios that are featured. Everything is thoroughly researched and referenced, so that only technologies that are currently plausible in the next decade are realistically featured. #NoVaporwareListen on to learn why we can get mad at Alexa, how FIC-INT (Fictional Intelligence) could help educate warfighters and policymakers, and what the AI/Human relationships of the future may look like...Buy "Burn-In: A Novel of the Real Robotic Revolution":Burn-In.com: https://www.burninbook.com/Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Burn-Novel-Real-Robotic-Revolution/dp/1328637239Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/burn-in-p-w-singer/1132050970IndieBound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781328637239Partner Spotlight: Bren-Tronicshttps://www.bren-tronics.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea Zooms with CSM (Ret) Rick Lamb about Operation EAGLE CLAW, the failed attempt to rescue hostages at the US Embassy in Iran in April 1980. They talk about what it was like to be a Ranger in the 70s, prepping for the mission, and what led to its eventual failure. Plus we talk about the outcomes of the mission and what changes it led to in the US DoD. Watch the SOF Story from Quarantine Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rnDPvv1tPECorporate Partner Highlight: Blue Light, LLChttps://bluelightllc.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Steve sit down (virtually) with MSgt (Ret) Wes Bryant, a former JTAC and TACP with 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He talks about the important role that a JTAC plays in combat operations, the importance of airstrikes in the fight against ISIS, and how that fight had to morph in different areas of the Middle East. Get the Book! "Hunting the Caliphate"https://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Caliphate-Americas-ISIS-Strike-ebook/dp/B07TLG7DDJCorporate Partner Highlight: goTenna:https://gotenna.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Stu have their first virtual podcast with US Army Special Forces COL (Ret) Kevin Higgins--from his home in El Salvador. He's had a lifelong career in South and Central America, with over a decade in Colombia. We talk about establishing the SF presence in the region, the development and strategies of Plan Colombia, and why the "war on drugs" may not have a true victory. Stay tuned to the end for a bonus story on boxing for the Golden Gloves.Corporate Partner Highlight: Barbaricumhttps://barbaricum.com/Corporate Partner Highlight: Al Waha Security Solutionshttps://wss.com.jo/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This special episode of the podcast includes an update from Stu and Chelsea on the Global SOF focus during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Then we launch into two SOF Stories from Quarantine: one from Rick Lamb on Armed Overwatch and his relevant experiences in Somalia, followed by Stu's take on the Power of Partnerships and standing up the NATO SOF Headquarters in Europe.Video Editions of SOF Stories:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUHPc9_rm4QmoSqaKSpKL7AGlobal SOF Areas of Focus:http://gsof.org/mission/Corporate Partner Highlight: Black Capehttps://blackcape.io/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Two Belgian SOF Operators tell the story behind their Special Forces Group and Special Operations Regiment, diving deep into their roots in WWII. From the Battle of the Bulge to the Beaches of Normandy, learn about how Belgium's most elite soldiers earned their berets, impacted the war, and became the units they are today.Belgium Museum Recommendation from Rick Lamb (After Corona):http://www.pegasus-museum.be/Belgium CDO Museum Recommendation from BELSOF Operator:http://www.cdomuseum.be/Corporate Partner Highlight: Huntington Ingalls Industries:https://www.huntingtoningalls.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Get an inside look at our February SOF Imperatives Forum--specifically the panel on the Role of the Assistant SECDEF for Special Operations / Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD SO/LIC). Moderated by Catherine Herridge of CBS News, she spoke with three former ASD SO/LICs:Michael LumpkinBrian SheridanMark MitchellSee what they had to say about the need to elevate the ASD SO/LIC to an Undersecretary position based on their own experiences with the role.See our Op/Ed on the topic:https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/469111-americas-avengers-deserve-an-advocateCorporate Partner Highlight: Allies, Inc.https://www.linkedin.com/company/allies-inc-/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Jim Hake, the CEO and Founder of non-profit Spirit of America, joins Chelsea and Steve to talk about his organization. Inspired by the events of 9/11, Jim founded SoA to help support the American mission in countries around the globe. He calls himself an "ordinary citizen," but we think you'll agree he's much more than that!From baseball equipment to veterinary training, SoA uses its "venture capital model" to take actions that build global relationships with agility and flexibility.Learn More About Spirit of America:https://spiritofamerica.org/Corporate Partner Highlight:https://www.sosi.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This episode features the "Future of Terrorism: A New America Assessment" panel from the September 2019 SOF Policy Forum in Washington, DC. Panelists Melissa Salyk-Virk and David Sterman talk about their findings around the increase in drone attacks, issues in the Horn of Africa and Yemen, and the impact of different ideologies both within and outside of the U.S.To learn more, make sure you check out their full assessment:https://www.newamerica.org/international-security/reports/terrorism-america-18-years-after-911/And don't miss our upcoming SOF Imperatives Forum in DC:https://gsofimperatives.org/dc-program/Plus, our Corporate Partner Highlight, Peraton:https://www.peraton.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Steve sat down with six active duty soldiers at U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) from Special Forces (SF), Civil Affairs (CA), and Psychological Operations (PSYOP). We discussed joining the Army, differences between conventional and SOF service, and what opportunities ARSOF holds for female soldiers. Thanks to our participants: Ben, Garrett, Rihanna, Kiel, Doug, and Angela!Learn more about USASOC:https://www.soc.mil/Global SOF Partner Highlight: BlackFishhttp://blackfishsolutions.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea is joined by GSF President Stu Bradin to talk with LTC (Ret) Jimmy Reese. Reese talks about his unconventional path in the Army that ultimately led him to Delta Force, Operation Anaconda, and becoming an entrepreneur after retiring from Active Duty.Partner Highlight: The Range Complexhttps://www.therangecomplex.com/Learn More... Stu references Peter Blaber's Book on Operation Anaconda (and more), which is called, "The Mission, The Men, and Me: Lessons from a Former Delta Force Commander":https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Men-Me-Lessons-Commander/dp/0425223728Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

LTC Rick Woolshlager is the Commander of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Recruiting Battalion--and he's the guest on this episode of SOFspot! Chelsea met with him at Ft. Bragg to learn about the Army's in-service recruiting team and the many career fields that are available in Army SOF. We talk about opportunities for women, what you should know before you separate from active duty, and if Hollywood has had an impact on recruiting.Learn More About Army Special Operations:http://goarmysof.com/Global SOF Corporate Partner Highlight: Peratonhttps://www.peraton.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Chelsea and Rick were honored to chat with MG (Ret) Ken Bowra, an American Special Forces hero who's service goes back to the Vietnam War. MG Bowra talks about serving with the MACVSOG-- Military Assistance Command - Vietnam, Studies and Observations Group.He discusses different tactics used during recon missions, the importance of different types of equipment, and the brotherhood he had with the indigenous troops. It's a very interesting conversation that dives into the real experiences of a Special Forces soldier in Vietnam.Read the MACVSOG Presidential Unit Citation:http://www.specialoperations.org/macvsog_puc.htmlGlobal SOF Partner Highlight: Axiologic Solutions:https://axiologicsolutions.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Please note: The statements and opinions of the speakers in this episode are their own. They are not speaking on behalf of the U.S. Government.This episode comes from this year's SOF Policy Forum in DC, which was held on 18 SEP 2019. We're bringing you a panel called, "Does SOF Leadership Need to Evolve to Win the Future Fight." It features:- MAJ Nicole Alexander, an Operations Officer in the U.S. Army- LTC Kevin Trujillo, a National Security Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School - Col Meghan M. Ripple, a Senior Military Evaluator for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation- MSgt Michael W. MacKay, Enlisted Leader, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations CommandAnd it's moderated by Lyla Kohistany, President and Co-Founder of PROMOTE.Global SOF Foundation Partner Highlight: Akimahttp://www.akima.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Global SOF President Stu Bradin sat down with three experts from the SOF Communications (Comms) Community to talk about their careers in the field, the SOF comms "boom" when everything changed, and what they think the future will bring. Our three commo guests are COL (Ret) Joe Tragakis, SGM (Ret) Arthur "AC" Coley, and CPT (Ret) Rob Keeler.GSF Corporate Partner Spotlight - AirScan:http://www.airscan.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This episode features Lt. Gen. (Ret) Tom Trask, former Vice Commander of USSOCOM and current member of the Global SOF Advisory Council, along with GSF President/CEO Stu Bradin. They talk about the past and future efforts of the GSF on Capitol Hill, including our platform document--the SOF Imperatives-- and our new partnership with Navigators Global to further our efforts to educate Congressional Staffers. Plus, it's our first ever Video Podcast... so you can watch along here:http://bit.ly/sofspot24vid Take the SOF Imperatives Survey:http://bit.ly/2020SOFGSF Partner Highlight: ATN Corphttps://www.atncorp.com/Register for the Demo Days (and Modern Warfare Week):https://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

We sat down with AQ and Islamic State expert, Dr. Nelly Lahoud, for a deep dive into the now declassified documents recovered from Osama Bin Laden's Compound in Abbottabad. Dr. Lahoud took us through what she learned from personally translating and analyzing all 6,000 pages of these documents, from the impact of drone strikes to the relationships between AQ and other terrorist organizations in the region. Spoiler alert: many widely accepted ideas may not be correct...Episode Links:- Dr. Nelly Lahoud's Bookshttps://www.amazon.com/Nelly-Lahoud/e/B001KDRC0W%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share- Martha Crenshaw's "The Causes of Terrorism"https://www.jstor.org/stable/421717?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents- Modern Warfare Symposiumhttps://www.globalsofsymposium.org/mws/- GSF Partner Highlight: Air Center Helicoptershttps://air.center/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

This is our second episode with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. In part two of the conversation we discuss what Dan sees for the future of SOF medicine, the Alan Babin Rule, and freeze-dried plasma. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: Aero Pioneer Grouphttps://aero-pioneer.com/Alan Babin on the Gary Sinise Foundation:https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/specially-adapted-smart-homes/alan-babin/Stop the Bleeding: http://stopthebleedingcoalition.org/iSupport the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Stu and Chelsea of the GSF met with Dan Irizarry, an expert in Tactical Combat Casualty Care. We had such a good conversation that it was worthy of two episodes... this is Part 1. In this episode we discuss NATO SOF medics, the crazy advancements in simulated training, and tourniquets... lots of tourniquets. Listen and learn with Dan Irizarry!GSF Corporate Partner Highlight: AC4Shttps://www.ac4s.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)

Ranger Rick and Chelsea talked to Bryce Mahoney of the Darby Project--a non-profit that connects, educates, and empowers Army Rangers to lead the way in their communities. We talked about everything from finances to being a "Ranger Always" to ways anyone can support an active duty military member throughout their transition. It's a good listen whether you are, were, or have never been active duty... so please enjoy our 20th episode!Learn more about The Darby Project:https://darbyproject.org/Participate in Run Ranger Run:https://runrangerrun.com/Learn more about our highlighted Partner: COMSAThttps://www.comsat.com/Support the show (https://gsof.org/individual-membership/)