US Army special operations force
POPULARITY
Joe Kent returns to the show to discuss the latest developments with the Iran war. Kent explains why he is pessimistic that a lasting deal can be achieved in the near future. He and Scott also talk about Israel's spying on the US government, Tulsi Gabbard, the Charlie Kirk assassination, the new regime in Syria and more. Discussed on the show: “U.S. and Iran Zero In on Four Nuclear Issues in Talks” (New York Times) The Trump Assassination Plots: What the Investigations Missed and Why it Matters by Ken Silva Joe Kent is a retired Army Special Forces soldier who served as the director of the National Counterterrorism Center in Trump's second term until he resigned in 2026 over the war with Iran. Follow him on Twitter @joekent16jan19 Audio cleaned up with the Podsworth app: https://podsworth.com Use code HORTON50 for 50% off your first order at Podsworth.com to clean up your voice recordings, sound like a pro, and also support the Scott Horton Show! For more on Scott's work: Check out The Libertarian Institute: https://www.libertarianinstitute.org Check out Scott's other show, Provoked, with Darryl Cooper https://youtube.com/@Provoked_Show Read Scott's books: Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine https://amzn.to/47jMtg7 (The audiobook of Provoked is being published in sections at https://scotthortonshow.com) Enough Already: Time to End the War on Terrorism: https://amzn.to/3tgMCdw Fool's Errand: Time to End the War in Afghanistan https://amzn.to/3HRufs0 Follow Scott on X @scotthortonshow And check out Scott's full interview archives: https://scotthorton.org/all-interviews This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Tax Attorney Matt Sercely https://agoristtaxadvice.com; Moon Does Artisan Coffee https://scotthorton.org/coffee; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom https://www.libertyclassroom.com/dap/a/?a=1616 and Dissident Media https://dissidentmedia.com Sign up for the Scott Horton Academy of Foreign Policy and Freedom at scotthortonacademy.com You can also support Scott's work by making a one-time or recurring donation at https://scotthorton.org/donate/https://scotthortonshow.com or https://patreon.com/scotthortonshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Download Audio. Joe Kent returns to the show to discuss the latest developments with the Iran war. Kent explains why he is pessimistic that a lasting deal can be achieved in the near future. He and Scott also talk about Israel's spying on the US government, Tulsi Gabbard, the Charlie Kirk assassination, the new regime in Syria and more. Discussed on the show: “U.S. and Iran Zero In on Four Nuclear Issues in Talks” (New York Times) The Trump Assassination Plots: What the Investigations Missed and Why it Matters by Ken Silva Joe Kent is a retired Army Special Forces soldier who served as the director of the National Counterterrorism Center in Trump's second term until he resigned in 2026 over the war with Iran. Follow him on Twitter @joekent16jan19 Audio cleaned up with the Podsworth app: https://podsworth.com Use code HORTON50 for 50% off your first order at Podsworth.com to clean up your voice recordings, sound like a pro, and also support the Scott Horton Show! For more on Scott’s work: Check out The Libertarian Institute: https://www.libertarianinstitute.org Check out Scott’s other show, Provoked, with Darryl Cooper https://youtube.com/@Provoked_Show Read Scott’s books: Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine https://amzn.to/47jMtg7 (The audiobook of Provoked is being published in sections at https://scotthortonshow.com) Enough Already: Time to End the War on Terrorism: https://amzn.to/3tgMCdw Fool's Errand: Time to End the War in Afghanistan https://amzn.to/3HRufs0 Follow Scott on X @scotthortonshow And check out Scott's full interview archives: https://scotthorton.org/all-interviews This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Tax Attorney Matt Sercely https://agoristtaxadvice.com; Moon Does Artisan Coffee https://scotthorton.org/coffee; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom https://www.libertyclassroom.com/dap/a/?a=1616 and Dissident Media https://dissidentmedia.com Sign up for the Scott Horton Academy of Foreign Policy and Freedom at scotthortonacademy.com You can also support Scott's work by making a one-time or recurring donation at https://scotthorton.org/donate/https://scotthortonshow.com or https://patreon.com/scotthortonshow
Bryan Pickens is a former U.S. Army special operations soldier, security contractor, tactical advisor, and Ukraine war veteran. He has served in elite U.S. units, including as a Green Beret in U.S. Army Special Forces and as a Ranger with 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He is currently associated with Valoryx Group LLC and is publicly described as a tactical advisor, drone-operations and training specialist, security consultant, and Russian-language proficient former special operator.After Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Pickens fought alongside Ukrainian special operations forces and became one of the Western veterans arguing that Ukraine's battlefield experience has outpaced much of NATO's current understanding of modern war. In comments cited by Forbes, he said that even with “16 combat deployments,” he had to relearn how to fight in Ukraine, adding that Ukrainian counterparts were teaching him. His recent public commentary focuses heavily on drone warfare, counter-drone defence, electronic warfare, mid-range strike capability, and the urgent need for Western militaries to learn directly from Ukrainian operators. He has warned that cheap drone swarms cannot be sustainably countered with multi-million-dollar interceptors, and has argued that Ukraine can help professionalize Western warfighters in interception, surveillance, strike integration, and counter-electronic warfare. Pickens has also written and co-authored for The Cipher Brief, including on what Washington should learn from Ukraine's battlefield, and has appeared on veteran/security podcasts discussing his U.S. special operations background, Ukraine experience, and tactical lessons from the war.----------LINKS:https://www.thecipherbrief.com/experts/bryan-pickenshttps://www.forbes.com/sites/davidkirichenko/2026/05/15/the-pentagon-is-learning-drone-warfare-from-ukraine/https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidkirichenko/2026/05/03/japans-terra-drone-bets-on-ukraines-cheap-way-to-stop-shaheds/https://www.thecipherbrief.com/the-future-of-war-is-now-what-washington-needs-to-hear-from-the-battlefield----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformation----------ACTIVE CAMPAIGN:We are raising funds for 5 of 15 Vampire DronesSilicon Curtain for Kupiansk Vampires. Dzyga's Paw, together with Jonathan Fink, is joining forces to raise $40,000 to provide the Khartiia Brigade with Vampire Drones.https://dzygaspaw.com/silicon-curtain-for-kupiansk-vampiresThese heavy bombers are designed to destroy manpower and equipment, as well as for remote mining. The Vampire UAV, manufactured by Skyfall, has proven itself to be one of the most effective weapons in the Kupiansk direction. Skyfall is one of Ukraine's largest defense tech companies, producing Vampire bomber drones, various modifications of Shrike FPV drones, P1-SUN, Shahed drone interceptors, communication systems, and components.----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Car4Ukrainehttps://car4ukraine.com/en-US/campaignsDzyga's Pawhttps://dzygaspaw.com/projectsSuperhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/----------PLATFORMS:Substack: https://substack.com/@siliconcurtainTwitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSiliconLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm----------
The Kubik Report: From Army Special Forces to the LAPD — Alan Farber's Remarkable Story What is it really like to serve in elite military units and then patrol some of America's toughest neighborhoods as a police officer? In this compelling episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with his neighbor and friend, Alan Farber, whose life journey took him through two extraordinary careers: the U.S. Army Special Forces and the Los Angeles Police Department. Alan enlisted in the Army at age 18 and eventually became a member of the Special Forces, completing 55 parachute jumps and participating in sensitive missions during a tense period of world history. He shares firsthand accounts of military life, the discipline and courage required for special operations, and the realities behind experiences most people only see portrayed in movies. After his military service, Alan began a second career with the LAPD, serving in Los Angeles during challenging years that tested both officers and communities. He reflects on life as a police officer, the dangers, the difficult decisions, and the human side of law enforcement. More than a story about adventure and risk, this conversation reveals the character, sensitivity, and perspective that come from a lifetime of service. Alan's candid recollections provide a fascinating look behind the headlines and Hollywood portrayals of both military and police work. Alan and his wife, Becki, have been neighbors of Victor and Beverly for nearly three years. Their friendship inspired this engaging conversation that offers listeners a rare glimpse into an extraordinary life. You won't want to miss this insightful and memorable episode.
David and Jasmine discuss the emotions of negotiating with Max Bevilacqua, founder and chief negotiating officer of Mindful Negotiating, a consulting and training firm for high-powered leaders. Max has trained Fortune 100 executives, U.S. Army Special Forces, and legal professionals, and he has taught negotiation at Harvard Law School and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. He brings a highly relational and human-centered perspective to persuasion and advocacy. Max shows how influence often comes through listening, curiosity, emotional awareness, and the ability to de-escalate tension. He describes how successful negotiators are not simply skilled arguers but people who understand how emotions, identity, trust, and human connection influence outcomes.https://perkinscoie.com/insights/publication/settlement-counsel-services
It's no secret that machine intelligence is evolving by the day. But what if there's a uniquely human intelligence that's altogether different? In this episode, neuroscientist, researcher, and Special Ops consultant Angus Fletcher joins Michael and Megan to explore our uniquely human contribution to the world. They unpack why children are more creative than AI, what intuition truly is (it's not pattern recognition), and how embracing your inner child can make you a better entrepreneur.They also delve into human relationships, examining why mystery and curiosity are the engines of lasting love and how three simple practices helped turn around a 90% divorce rate among Army Special Forces operatives.Memorable Quotes“I think our brains are smarter than computers. I think children are more creative than AI. And I think that one of the real powers of the human brain is that unlike a computer, it doesn't need a lot of information. I think that it can handle volatility and uncertainty and all these kinds of things.”“What we need to do as humans now is we need to say, ‘Hey, AI is great because it can handle all the label stuff, it can handle all the efficiency. It's time for us to get back to being human again,' and realizing that being human again means cherishing the way that people are not like the labels I put on them."“What's the one thing you learn in school? You learn that there's an answer, and the system has it. And what we know is that the more that a child believes that there's a right answer, the less likely she is to come up with a new answer. And so school, by its very method, crushes entrepreneurs.”“Humans don't predict the future, we make the future. And the way that we make the future is we see a possibility that no one else has seen before, and we move faster to make that possibility happen, and that is unpredictable because it relies on the ability to spot exceptions faster.”“When you despair, it's over. When you despair, you've already told yourself the end of the story, and so you've given up. Whereas what you've always gotta realize is that you're still in control, and you can still write the last chapter.”“The reason that the hedonic treadmill exists is because once your brain has automated something, it wants you to move on from it. Your brain actually doesn't want you to take pleasure in automated activities because your brain wants you to automate something and then grow. Growth is what your brain takes perpetual pleasure from.”“All the wisdom, all the emotional strength you have, those come from moments in your life when you struggled, when you failed, when you experienced setbacks and maybe even tragedies. And so really what you wanna do is you wanna start being thankful for those hard times because you realize those were a source of growth.”“What we teach the operators is… to ask the other person who, what, when, where, how, but never why. Because the moment you ask ‘Why?', you serve a judgment, and the conversation is over… The moment you've made a judgment, your relationship is over. You've fallen out of love. Love is about mystery.”Key TakeawaysAI Optimizes. Humans Innovate. Computers excel in transparent, stable, data-rich environments. The human brain evolved for the opposite: murky, volatile, unpredictable conditions. Anytime you need something new, something human, or something that has never existed before, humans will always have the edge.Intuition Is the Opposite of Pattern Recognition. That widely accepted belief that intuition is pattern recognition? It's demonstrably wrong. Computers are far better at pattern matching than humans, yet they have terrible intuition. Real intuition is the brain's ability to spot anomalies, exceptions, and outliers—the foundational skill of every entrepreneur.Leave Optimizing to the Robots. The hedonic treadmill is real: the more you automate your life and work, the less pleasure you get from it. Your brain rewards growth. Leaders who focus exclusively on efficiency are, paradoxically, making themselves more replaceable in an AI world.Your Inner Child Is Your Competitive Advantage. Children notice what's special. They don't think in labels and categories but embrace individuality and discovery. Reconnecting with that capacity—through travel, unfamiliar conversations, art, and genuine curiosity—is how you recultivate the intuition that school and workplace culture have suppressed.Mystery Is Key to Love. Love thrives on the feeling that there's always something more to discover about your partner. Great partners keep asking questions: Who? What? When? And how? But they rarely ask Why?, because that renders judgment, and judgment kills curiosity and connection.ResourcesPrimal Intelligence: You Are Smarter Than You Know by Angus FletcherOperation: Human (Angus Fletcher's newsletter)Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/7w38CL5iX2YThis episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound
On this special Memorial Day episode, Tudor Dixon sits down with Mark Stephens, a 21-year Army Special Forces veteran and Chairman of the Board for Task Force Dagger, to discuss the true meaning of honoring America’s fallen heroes. Mark shares firsthand experiences from years of combat deployments, the unseen burdens carried by service members and their families, and the emotional realities of survivor’s guilt and sacrifice. The conversation also explores America’s role on the world stage, the importance of Special Operations forces, geopolitical challenges involving Iran and Cuba, and why understanding history matters when evaluating today’s global conflicts. Plus, Mark explains how organizations like Task Force Dagger support wounded warriors and Gold Star families long after the battlefield. A powerful Memorial Day conversation about duty, freedom, and remembering those who gave everything for the country we love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
THE EMBC NETWORK featuring: ihealthradio and worldwide podcasts
Operational Conditioning: Wil Ravelo's Approach to Transforming Men's Lives In this episode of Resilience Redefined, host Michael Ostrolenk sits down with Wil Ravelo, a former reconnaissance Marine, Army Special Forces soldier, and San Francisco Police Department SWAT officer turned entrepreneur and fitness coach. Wil shares his journey from the military to law enforcement and his struggles with PTSD. He discusses how he transitioned into helping men optimize their health and mindset through his company, Operational Conditioning. Wil also shares insights on the importance of building a strong support system, developing resilience, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Additionally, he provides an overview of his training programs for men aged 35-65, aspiring special operations candidates, and an upcoming mastermind retreat. Check out Wil's instagram at https://instagram.com/realwilravelo
THE EMBC NETWORK featuring: ihealthradio and worldwide podcasts
Operational Conditioning: Wil Ravelo's Approach to Transforming Men's Lives In this episode of Resilience Redefined, host Michael Ostrolenk sits down with Wil Ravelo, a former reconnaissance Marine, Army Special Forces soldier, and San Francisco Police Department SWAT officer turned entrepreneur and fitness coach. Wil shares his journey from the military to law enforcement and his struggles with PTSD. He discusses how he transitioned into helping men optimize their health and mindset through his company, Operational Conditioning. Wil also shares insights on the importance of building a strong support system, developing resilience, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Additionally, he provides an overview of his training programs for men aged 35-65, aspiring special operations candidates, and an upcoming mastermind retreat. Check out Wil's instagram at https://instagram.com/realwilravelo
Last month a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier was indicted for using classified intelligence to make bets online. It comes as online prediction markets have exploded in popularity. The war in Iran and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have revealed suspiciously-timed bets on when an attack might happen, even the fate of world leaders. Correspondent Jon Wertheim reports on the phenomenon of betting on war and the creation of a whole new category of insider trading. As tech companies promise that AI-powered autonomous vehicles will transform transportation, correspondent Anderson Cooper takes a ride down the ancient roads and medieval alleyways of London in the iconic black cab. London's black cab industry still relies on a 161-year-old test called “the Knowledge”, requiring prospective cabbies to memorize thousands of London's landmarks and the shortest routes between them all. Cooper reports on this legacy institution and why London cab drivers aren't about to hand over their keys to big tech. Legendary Hollywood director Christopher Nolan, whose blockbuster films have earned 18 Academy Awards, meets with correspondent Scott Pelley ahead of the release of his highly-anticipated adaption of Homer's classic, “The Odyssey”. Pelley interviews Nolan and those who know him best about his filmmaking at a young age, his trademarks, and his most ambitious project yet. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Join hosts Rick Hogg (War HOGG Tactical founder and 30-year U.S. Army Special Forces combat veteran) and Mark Kelley (Kelley Defense founder and 31-year law enforcement combat veteran) on the On The Range Podcast for an in-depth conversation with special guest Peter Margiotta. Peter, a retired New York City Correction Officer with over 26 years as a firearms and tactics instructor (including service in the Corrections Emergency Service Unit and Firearms & Tactics Unit), is the creator of Gun Training Sights — the most realistic Kydex firearm training aids on the market. In this episode, discover how Peter's revolutionary gun training sights are transforming firearms instruction. From dual-sided Trijicon/Glock night sights and XS Big Dot replicas to Red Dot Sight (RDS) trainers and pocket-sized sight picture tools, these hyper-realistic aids help instructors teach perfect sight alignment, sight picture, and presentation faster and more effectively than ever. Whether you're a civilian shooter, law enforcement officer, military personnel, or firearms instructor, you'll learn practical tips to level up your training and become 1% better every day. Tune in for expert insights on tactical firearms training, shooting drills, sight alignment techniques, and the future of realistic firearm training aids. Perfect for anyone serious about firearms proficiency, self-defense, or professional instruction. Hyperlinks: On The Range Podcast (official site, episodes & more): https://www.ontherangepodcast.com/ Rick Hogg – War HOGG Tactical: https://www.warhogg.com/ Mark Kelley – Kelley Defense: https://www.kelleydefense.com/ Peter Margiotta – Gun Training Sights: https://guntrainingsights.com/ SEO Keywords: gun training sights, firearm training aids, Peter Margiotta, sight alignment training, firearms instructor tools, tactical shooting drills, On The Range Podcast, Rick Hogg, Mark Kelley, realistic gun sights, Kydex training sights, shooting instruction. Share with fellow shooters, instructors, and 2A enthusiasts! Subscribe, like, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.
Waste No Day: A Plumbing, HVAC, and Electrical Motivational Podcast
Want to double your ticket average without being pushy? Get access to real-time sales training, scripts, and role-play coaching inside the Blue Collar Closer community, join today https://wastenoday.pro/BCC Join the Waste No Day! Facebook group: https://wastenoday.pro/FBgroup Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann is a former Green Beret who spent most of his adult life in Army Special Forces, serving in places like Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Afghanistan. His work focused not just on combat, but on building trust in low-trust environments - helping small teams connect with locals and turn them into strong partners. After the military, he shifted that same focus on human connection into leadership coaching, storytelling, and writing. He's the author of Nobody's Coming to Save You and his newer book The Generosity of Scars, and he's known for helping leaders improve by focusing on relationships, storytelling, and real human connection. In this episode, we talked about storytelling, leadership, trust, emotions, struggle... Website: https://scottmann.com/about/, tfpineapple.org Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheScottMannPodcast Play: 11 Days WND Ep: 04/14/2025 Scott Mann - Build Unbreakable Connections Through Authentic Storytelling Books: Nobody's Coming to Save You, The Generosity of Scars Concepts: Rooftop Leadership
This week we are joined by Army Special Forces medic Tyr Symank! Watch this episode ad-free and uncensored on Pepperbox! https://www.pepperbox.tv/joinunsubscribe WATCH THE AFTERSHOW & BTS ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/UnsubscribePodcast
What's the real difference between Green Berets and Marine Raiders?In this video, I break down an honest, firsthand comparison between Army Special Forces and Marine Raiders—no hype, no rivalry, just real experience from someone who's worked side by side with both in combat.I've operated alongside Green Berets in Afghanistan, and this isn't fanboy content or internet speculation. This is a factual look at how both communities operate, what they're built for, and what actually separates them.
Episode 744 kicks off with new merch in the wild and the ongoing expansion of the “protect the children from the internet” playbook. Manitoba is floating a ban on social media and AI chatbots for kids with details still TBD, while the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee somehow managed unanimous approval on chatbot age-verification legislation. Utah, not to be outdone, passed SB 73 — a law that tries to pin age verification on VPN users and even bans sites from explaining what a VPN is, a move that will mostly degrade the internet without solving the problem it claims to address. Meanwhile, John Oliver finally unloaded on the AI industry, echoing long-standing criticisms: rushed products, acknowledged risks, and outsourced consequences.In the news, a U.S. Army Special Forces master sergeant was arrested for allegedly turning classified intel about the Maduro capture into a $400K Polymarket win, then attempting to cover it up in ways that suggest poor operational planning. Meta cut more than 1,100 Kenyan content moderators after reports surfaced that they were exposed to explicit footage from smart glasses users, raising serious questions about labor practices in AI pipelines. Google signed a Pentagon AI deal despite internal backlash while posting massive revenue gains, underscoring where incentives actually land. OpenAI, meanwhile, is juggling missed targets, a shift away from Microsoft exclusivity, and continued reputational hits around Sam Altman — including a widely criticized apology tied to a mass shooting and a fabricated Bruno Mars tie-in for his World project. Add in a failed retrial bid from Sam Bankman-Fried, rising volumes of AI-generated web content, and political interference with the National Science Board, and the signal is clear: incentives are misaligned across the board.On the lighter side, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds returns July 23rd for its penultimate season, and Ted Lasso is back August 5th, for better or worse. Jack Dorsey beat the inevitable Elon attempt to reboot Vine with Divine, reviving six-second loops with a decentralized backbone and anti-AI safeguards. Apple continues its slow AI rollout with new photo editing tools, while Google pushes further into data aggregation with wardrobe-level photo analysis. Hardware check: Logitech's MX Keys S lands as a heavier, brighter $119 iteration. In books, Peter Clines delivers with God's Junk Drawer, while Martha Wells signals that the Murderbot series may be nearing its end. The Dark Side with Dave ties it together with gun storage PSAs, Disneyland lore, Galaxy's Edge playlists, and a conversational detour through Super Dave, Martin Short, and the ongoing quirks of instant replay in baseball.Show notes at https://gog.show/744Watch on YouTube at https://youtu.be/P3NOSXlCs9EFOLLOW UPNew Merch!Canadian premier wants to ban social media and AI chatbots for kids in ManitobaSenate Judiciary Committee unanimously approves AI chatbot age verificationUtah's New Law Targeting VPNs Goes Into Effect Next WeekJohn Oliver Just Took the AI Industry Behind a Shed and Beat It With a Pipe WrenchIN THE NEWSUS soldier arrested for allegedly making over $400,000 on Polymarket with classified Maduro informationMeta in row after workers who say they saw smart glasses users having sex lose jobsGoogle employees ask Sundar Pichai to say no to classified military AI useGoogle Signs Pentagon AI Deal Despite Employee BacklashGoogle Gives OpenAI 20 Billion Reasons To WorryOpenAI's Sam Altman apologizes for not reporting ChatGPT account of Tumbler Ridge suspect to policeSam Altman Caught in What May Be His Most Spectacular Lie YetOpenAI ends its exclusive partnership with Microsoft‘Never Talk About Goblins': OpenAI's Instructions to Codex Have a Weirdly Emphatic No-Creatures PolicySam Bankman-Fried Seems to Annoy Judge and Lose Latest Motion for New TrialDead Internet Theory Is 17% of the Way to Becoming Reality, Study FindsMatt Mullenweg thinks WordPress is in decline. He may be rightTrump has terminated several members of the independent National Science BoardAPPS & DOODADSJack Dorsey Beats Elon Musk to the Punch With a Reboot of VineJack Dorsey-backed Vine reboot Divine launches to the publiciOS 27 will reportedly come with new AI-powered photo editing toolsGoogle Photos Wardrobe will scan your pictures to compile a digital version of your closetLogitech MX Keys S KeyboardMEDIA CANDYStar Trek: Strange New Worlds returns for its penultimate season on July 23Star Trek: Strange New Worlds | Season 4 Official Teaser | Paramount+How the Combadge Became the Ultimate Wearable of the ‘Star Trek' UniverseTED LASSO Season 4 | Official Teaser Trailer (2026)AT THE LIBRARYGod's Junk Drawer by Peter ClinesMartha Wells Says the Murderbot Diaries May Be Reaching Its Final ChapterTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingDave gets his Christmas PresentThe Backside of WaterStar Wars: Galaxy's Edge: Oga's Cantina R3X's Playlist #1Marty, Life Is Short | Official Trailer | NetflixBaseball and using instant replay to override the Umpire.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
My guest today is a man who existed in the shadows of one of the most classified units in American military history — a Vietnam-era Green Beret named Travis Mills who helped build the legendary MACV-SOG one-zero school, ran recon deep into Laos when we "weren't there," got shot multiple times during one of the deadliest single-night attacks ever to hit Army Special Forces, and lived to sit across from me and tell the whole story. This is the kind of conversation that reminds you what the word "operator" actually means before it became a hashtag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This week on The Necessary Conversation, Chad and Haley are joined by Mary Lou but Bob is sitting this one out while he deals with some health issue.
A soldier was arrested for using military intel to bet on Polymarket. The DOJ arrested an Army Special Forces soldier for using classified information about a planned Venezuela raid to place $33,000 in bets on Polymarket, winning $400,000. The CFTC is also pursuing parallel insider trading charges. CoinDesk's Jennifer Sanasie hosts "CoinDesk Daily." - This episode was hosted by Jennifer Sanasie. “CoinDesk Daily” is produced by Jennifer Sanasie and edited by Victor Chen.
Howie Kurtz on the mushrooming scandal involving New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and NFL reporter Dianna Russini, the controversy surrounding the New York Times' decision to provide a platform to extremist streamer Hasan Piker, and the federal charges against a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier for allegedly using classified intel to bet on a military mission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watchdog-on-wall-street-with-chris-markowski/id570687608 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PtgPvJvqc2gkpGIkNMR5i WATCH and SUBSCRIBE on:https://www.youtube.com/@WatchdogOnWallstreet/featured A shocking case hits Manhattan federal court as a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier is accused of using classified intel to profit on prediction markets. The story fuels a bigger debate: have platforms like Polymarket turned global events into a high-stakes casino? From insider trading concerns to calls for regulation, this breakdown explores the risks, ethics, and growing backlash against betting on world affairs.
In this episode, I sit down with Matt Bortis—former collegiate golfer, former special operations operator, and mindset and performance coach—to unpack what it really takes to perform when pressure is high, and outcomes matter. Matt brings a rare blend of battlefield-tested composure and high-level athletic performance coaching to this conversation. We explore why so many golfers, entrepreneurs, and ambitious people crumble under pressure—not because they lack skill, but because they've never trained their response. We dive into nervous system regulation, acceptance vs suppression, why "mental toughness" often backfires, and how your patterns under pressure are usually rehearsed long before the big moment arrives. In this episode, you'll learn: Why outcomes are influenced—not controlled—and where your focus should go instead How to train your nervous system to feel safe in uncertain environments Why anxiety, nerves, and stress are often signs of readiness—not weakness The hidden downside of trying to "bear down" and force performance How elite performers rehearse worst-case scenarios before they happen Why letting go is often a more valuable skill than trying harder How self-worth tied to achievement creates endless internal pressure If you're someone who knows what to do but struggles to do it when it matters most—this episode is for you. Get your pencils ready and start listening. Apply for 1-1 High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. The 90-Day Golf Identity Upgrade Accelerator: This is a private 3-month coaching container designed to help serious golfers rapidly upgrade their beliefs, rewire their golf identity, and accelerate lower scores through deep subconscious transformation — not surface-level tactics. Click here to learn more and DM me "identity upgrade" on Instagram (@thepaulsalter) to learn more. More About Matt Bortis Coach Bortis brings over a decade of experience within multiple elite special operations units and has coached at the highest levels of NCAA competition, including Stanford University and the University of Mississippi, contributing to Conference and National Championships. From serving as a Marine Special Operations Team Commander to an Army Special Forces Green Beret, he has operated in environments where performance under pressure is non-negotiable. The lessons learned throughout these experiences are what drive his methodology and passion for helping others overcome similar obstacles. Visit Matt's website here and connect with him on Instagram: @forgedresponse Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course. Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Pressure doesn't create your patterns—it reveals them. You don't need calmness to perform. You need acceptance. Most high achievers have overtrained effort and undertrained surrender. Mental toughness without self-compassion leads to burnout. Your response is trainable long before the big moment arrives. Key Quotes: "When pressure rises, you don't rise to the occasion—you fall back on what you've trained." "Most people are trying to eliminate nerves when they should be learning how to perform with them." "The problem isn't pressure. The problem is the response you've conditioned to pressure." "Trying harder is often the exact reason high performers underperform." "Your self-worth was never meant to be measured by scorecards, trophies, income, or outcomes." Time Stamps: 00:00: Controlling Responses Over Outcomes 03:55: Softening Responses to Stress 08:20: Preparing for the Worst: Military Insights 12:03: Building Blocks of Performance Under Pressure 15:04: Dangerous Patterns in High-Pressure Situations 17:33: Learning from Performance: Patterns and Recovery 21:24: The Power of Daily Practices in Golf 24:58: Understanding Vulnerability and Mental Toughness 27:56: Self-Worth and External Validation 31:11: The Importance of Accountability 34:33: Flexibility in Commitment 38:14: You Are Enough: A Final Message
Send us Fan MailPeaches, Trent, and Aaron sit down with Doug—and yeah, this one pokes some egos.Doug breaks down the truth about Army Special Forces, the Guard vs Active Duty debate, and why a lot of dudes are lying to themselves about what actually matters. From getting bullied on old-school forums to building a career in Special Forces, Doug lays it out: most of what people think about the pipeline, the lifestyle, and even “elite performance” is either misunderstood or straight-up wrong.They dive into culture differences between AFSOC and Army SOF, the reality of mentorship (hint: it wasn't always pretty), and why today's generation might actually be better than the one that came before it—if leaders stop being lazy.And then Doug drops the hammer: overtraining is dumb, ego will wreck you, and the pipeline isn't impossible—you're just making it harder in your own head.If you're chasing this life, stop romanticizing it. Start preparing like it matters.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 Doug Takes Over the Podcast (Immediately) 02:30 Guard vs Active Duty—The Real Truth 05:00 Why He Joined SF (Not What You Expect) 08:00 Getting Humbled in Basic Training 12:00 Army vs AFSOC Culture Differences 16:00 Losing a Pistol in Combat… Seriously 20:00 Why Mentorship Actually Matters 24:30 Soft Guys vs “Influencers” Debate 29:00 Building Softlete & Brand Reality 34:00 The Next Generation—Better or Worse? 40:00 Intellectual Decline vs Physical Readiness 46:00 Leadership Failure vs Blaming “Kids” 52:00 Stop Overtraining—You're Doing It Wrong 57:00 The Pipeline Isn't Superhuman 01:02:00 Final Advice—It's All in Your Head
Eric welcomes retired U.S. Army Special Forces officer, and Penn Washington's Chief of Staff and Director of Communications, Mike Nelson to the show. They discuss the President's White House speech to sell the Iran war to the American people, and its failure to address a number of important questions. They discuss Mike's recent Dispatch article on the risks and benefits of different proposed courses of action for U.S. military forces on the ground in Iran, including the difficulties surrounding any mission to extricate the regime's remaining Highly Enriched Uranium, the potential risks to forces of seizing Kharg Island, the prospect for seizing the smaller islands like Abu Musa, the Tunbs, or Larak, and whether or not the juice would be worth the squeeze in providing an off-ramp to end the war. Finally, they address both the legality and advisability of attacks on Iranian infrastructure and how the Iranians might react to such a campaign.What a Ground Operation Might Look Like in Iran (Gift Link):https://thedispatch.com/article/trump-iran-ground-invasion-kharg-uranium-hormuz/?gift_key=38f86079ed7f33cb&gift_ref=3886671&utm_source=giftlink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=membergiftShield of the Republic is a Bulwark podcast co-sponsored by the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia.
The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association. During this episode, Andrew Hallman and Pat Roberson from Leidos discuss information operations (IO) and influence warfare in the modern security environment. Adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran are using information campaigns to challenge U.S. dominance, targeting both American homeland audiences and global partners alike. They discussed how the United States needs to improve speed and agility in IO operations, suggesting that technology like Leidos' Imperium platform could help bridge the gap between military kinetic operations and information warfare through AI-powered marketing approaches and sentiment analysis. The conversation covered training challenges, cultural barriers within the national security community, and current examples from the Middle East conflict with Iran, particularly focusing on how Iran uses information operations to maintain regime survival despite military setbacks. Recording Date: 26 Mar 2026 Research Question: Guest suggests an interested student or researcher examine: Resources: Cognitive Crucible Podcast Episodes Mentioned #1 Rand Waltzman on Cognitive Security Leidos Imperium AI and Influence: The New 'Arms Race': U.S. adversaries heavily employ information operations; new technology and old-fashioned marketing acumen could help America recover the advantage Easier to Kill Than to Text: A Mandate for Information Warfare Reform by Robert W. White Link to full show notes and resources Guest Bio: Andrew Hallman is Vice President and Strategic Account Executive for the Intelligence Community (IC). In this role, he leads Leidos' multi-year vision and strategy to develop and grow the company's business with the IC, delivering high-impact solutions to help optimize the Community's missions and safeguard the nation's interests. Prior to joining Leidos, Hallman was Vice President for National Security Strategy and Integration at Peraton, Inc., where he led campaigns to deliver transformative intelligence programs and drive business growth leveraging unique technical capabilities, emerging technologies and commercial ventures. Prior to joining Peraton in May 2022, he served with distinction for 33 years in the Intelligence Community, many of those years at the very highest levels. His final assignment was as Senior Advisor at the Central Intelligence Agency, where he advised CIA Leadership on strategy and organizational performance. In 2019-2020, Hallman served as Principal Executive, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, performing the duties of the Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence and leading daily operations of ODNI, including oversight of the IC's $60 billion budget and strategic initiatives aimed at transforming the IC's ability to secure the nation. He served as a commissioner on the bipartisan Cyber Solarium Commission to strengthen the nation's cyber security. From 2015-2019, Hallman was Deputy Director of CIA for Digital Innovation, where he stood up CIA's first new directorate in over 50 years to accelerate the integration of digital and cyber capabilities across all of CIA's mission areas. In his previous assignments he served in many analytic, operational, leadership, and policy assignments, including as daily intelligence briefer to the President of the United States. Hallman earned an MA in International Affairs from American University's School of International Service and a BS in Public Affairs Management from Michigan State University. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Pat Roberson, Leidos senior advisor, is a retired career U.S. Army Special Forces officer. Roberson spent more than 34 years in the Army leading units ranging from infantry rifle platoons to several Special Operations Task Forces. Roberson spent five years commanding U.S. and Allied Special Operations Forces in combat in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. In his last combat command of a Special Operations Joint Task Force, Roberson significantly contributed to the destruction of the ISIS physical caliphate in Syria and Iraq from 2018 to 2019. Roberson also served as the commander of the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School from August 2019 to August 2022, where he revamped training, doctrine, and course curriculum to ensure Army Special Operations' readiness for future strategic challenges. In his last position as the Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Special Operations Command from August 2022 to June 2024, he directed Special Operations forces globally, overseeing operations ranging from combat and training to recruiting and technology About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain. For more information, please contact us at communications@information-professionals.org. Or, connect directly with The Cognitive Crucible podcast host, John Bicknell, on LinkedIn. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, 1) IPA earns from qualifying purchases, 2) IPA gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
0:30 - 'No Kings' protests draw large crowds in cities, towns across US 17:38 - I'm a Democrat. 'No Kings Day' is an embarrassment 37:20 - The murder of Sheridan Gorman and the stifling of Chicago 01:00:10 - Meet the ‘Puffer Fish’: The Worst Kind of Person to Date 01:15:14 - Steven Bucci served America for three decades as an Army Special Forces officer and top Pentagon official, is a visiting fellow in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies. He joined Dan with reaction to the latest in Iran. 01:42:01 - Brian Lonergan Director of Strategic Communications & Content at the Federation for American Imigration Reform (FAIR) and Co-host of the “No Border, No Country” podcast: In Sanctuary Cities, American Lives Don’t Matter 01:56:58 - Ken Cuccinelli, National Chairman of the Election Transparency Initiative, former Virginia Attorney General, and former deputy secretary of DHS. Column: The Senate is walking a tightrope on the SAVE Act 02:15:16 - Father of Illinois ‘super mayor’ shot in Chicago as she calls for Trump to bring troops into Windy CitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Clay Martin returns to discuss the war in Iran and his thoughts on our friend Joe Kent resigning as the Director of the National Counter Terrorism Center. We then get into his church and its treatment for veterans with suicidal ideations. Clay served as a Marine and in the Army Special Forces specializing in the Middle East as a Green Beret before retiring.
Joe Kent is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces officer, former CIA paramilitary officer, and until recently served as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, stepping down from the post in March 2026 following a principled disagreement over U.S. policy in the Iran war. An Oregon native and graduate of Norwich University in Strategic Defense Analysis, Kent served in the U.S. Army for 20 years, completing 11 combat deployments across the Middle East and other high-threat regions. His military career included service with the 75th Ranger Regiment, Army Special Forces, and U.S. Army Special Operations Command, earning numerous commendations, including six bronze stars. After retiring from the Army in 2018, he served as a paramilitary officer in the CIA's Special Activities Center. Kent brought decades of frontline counterterrorism experience to the role, shaped in part by personal sacrifice: in 2019, his wife, Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon Kent, was killed in a suicide bombing while serving in Syria. Follow the markets: https://polymarket.com/event/us-x-iran-ceasefire-by https://polymarket.com/event/us-forces-enter-iran-by Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: Live better longer with BUBS Naturals. Get 20% OFF on collagen, MCT creamers, and more with code SHAWN at https://bubsnaturals.com/srs Ready to upgrade your eyewear? Check them out at https://roka.com and use code SRS for 20% off sitewide. Joe Kent Links: X - https://x.com/joekent16jan19 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Scott interviews Joe Kent, the former director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, about what drove him to resign. Kent explains how he saw the Israelis mislead Trump about an Iranian nuclear threat and the supposed fragility of the regime. He also backs up some of the widely attacked claims in his resignation letter about Israeli involvement in getting the US into previous wars in the region, reflects on what the real goals of the Israeli government are with this war, sheds light on Scott's concerns about significant blowback terrorism in the US and more. Discussed on the show: Kent's letter of resignation Joe Kent is a retired Army Special Forces soldier who served as the director of the National Counterterrorism Center in Trump's second term until he resigned in 2026 over the war with Iran. Follow him on Twitter @joekent16jan19 Audio cleaned up with the Podsworth app: https://podsworth.com Use code HORTON50 for 50% off your first order at Podsworth.com to clean up your voice recordings, sound like a pro, and also support the Scott Horton Show! For more on Scott's work: Check out The Libertarian Institute: https://www.libertarianinstitute.org Check out Scott's other show, Provoked, with Darryl Cooper https://youtube.com/@Provoked_Show Read Scott's books: Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine https://amzn.to/47jMtg7 (The audiobook of Provoked is being published in sections at https://scotthortonshow.com) Enough Already: Time to End the War on Terrorism: https://amzn.to/3tgMCdw Fool's Errand: Time to End the War in Afghanistan https://amzn.to/3HRufs0 Follow Scott on X @scotthortonshow And check out Scott's full interview archives: https://scotthorton.org/all-interviews This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Roberts and Roberts Brokerage Incorporated https://rrbi.co Moon Does Artisan Coffee https://scotthorton.org/coffee; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom https://www.libertyclassroom.com/dap/a/?a=1616 and Dissident Media https://dissidentmedia.com You can also support Scott's work by making a one-time or recurring donation at https://scotthorton.org/donate/https://scotthortonshow.com or https://patreon.com/scotthortonshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Kent on why we actually went to war with Iran. Joe Kent is a former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center and the President's principal counterterrorism advisor, who served 20 years in the U.S. Army with 11 combat deployments fighting terrorist networks with the 75th Ranger Regiment, Army Special Forces, and U.S. Army Special Operations Command, earning six Bronze Stars. Joe also a Gold Star husband whose first wife, Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon Kent, also served and was killed while fighting ISIS in Syria in 2019. Paid partnerships with: Ethos: Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos. Get up to $3 million in coverage in as little as 10 minutes at https://ethos.com/TUCKER Audien Hearing: Learn more about how Audien can help you or someone you love hear better. Call 1-800-453-2916 or visit https://HearTucker.com Dutch: Get $50 a year for vet care with Tucker50 at https://dutch.com/tucker Joi + Blokes: Use code TUCKER for 50% off your labs and 20% off all supplements at https://joiandblokes.com/tucker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Download Audio. Scott interviews Joe Kent, the former director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, about what drove him to resign. Kent explains how he saw the Israelis mislead Trump about an Iranian nuclear threat and the supposed fragility of the regime. He also backs up some of the widely attacked claims in his resignation letter about Israeli involvement in getting the US into previous wars in the region, reflects on what the real goals of the Israeli government are with this war, sheds light on Scott's concerns about significant blowback terrorism in the US and more. Discussed on the show: Kent's letter of resignation Joe Kent is a retired Army Special Forces soldier who served as the director of the National Counterterrorism Center in Trump's second term until he resigned in 2026 over the war with Iran. Follow him on Twitter @joekent16jan19 Audio cleaned up with the Podsworth app: https://podsworth.com Use code HORTON50 for 50% off your first order at Podsworth.com to clean up your voice recordings, sound like a pro, and also support the Scott Horton Show! For more on Scott’s work: Check out The Libertarian Institute: https://www.libertarianinstitute.org Check out Scott’s other show, Provoked, with Darryl Cooper https://youtube.com/@Provoked_Show Read Scott’s books: Provoked: How Washington Started the New Cold War with Russia and the Catastrophe in Ukraine https://amzn.to/47jMtg7 (The audiobook of Provoked is being published in sections at https://scotthortonshow.com) Enough Already: Time to End the War on Terrorism: https://amzn.to/3tgMCdw Fool's Errand: Time to End the War in Afghanistan https://amzn.to/3HRufs0 Follow Scott on X @scotthortonshow And check out Scott's full interview archives: https://scotthorton.org/all-interviews This episode of the Scott Horton Show is sponsored by: Roberts and Roberts Brokerage Incorporated https://rrbi.co Moon Does Artisan Coffee https://scotthorton.org/coffee; Tom Woods' Liberty Classroom https://www.libertyclassroom.com/dap/a/?a=1616 and Dissident Media https://dissidentmedia.com You can also support Scott's work by making a one-time or recurring donation at https://scotthorton.org/donate/https://scotthortonshow.com or https://patreon.com/scotthortonshow
Steve Hayes is joined by Mike Warren and Dispatch contributors Mike Nelson, a retired Army Special Forces officer and a member of the Atlantic Council's Counterterrorism Project, and Tim Mak, founder of the Counteroffensive and Iran War Dispatches. The Agenda:—Latest updates out of Iran—On-the-ground reporting during war—Internet blackout in Iran—Obama's policy toward Iran—Drone warfare—The Ukraine-Russia war—American support for war—NWYT: A spicy salsa lawsuit The Dispatch Podcast is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including access to all of our articles, members-only newsletters, and bonus podcast episodes—click here. If you'd like to remove all ads from your podcast experience, consider becoming a premium Dispatch member by clicking here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kyle Steiner is a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran and combat leader who served in the Global War on Terror. He enlisted in the Army in 2005 and deployed to Afghanistan with the 173rd Airborne Brigade, serving in the Korengal Valley during some of the most intense fighting of the war. His experiences there were later captured in the acclaimed documentaries Restrepo and Korengal. During combat operations, Steiner was wounded in action and awarded two Purple Hearts after surviving multiple enemy attacks, including an RPG blast and a machine-gun round that struck and deflected off his helmet. He later went on to serve in U.S. Army Special Forces, conducting missions across the Middle East, Central America, and South America. Over the course of his career he became Ranger-qualified, Combat Diver-qualified, HALO-certified, and a graduate of the Special Forces Sniper Course. His assignments included service with SOCOM’s Crisis Response Force. Steiner’s military decorations include two Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars, and the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device for valor. Today, he is the founder of Operator Mindset, a leadership and performance coaching platform focused on discipline, resilience, and purpose. He is also a husband, father, and speaker who shares lessons from combat, leadership, and personal transformation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Elmore was born in Illinois into a family with a legacy of military service. He joined the U.S. Army in 1987 with no immediate intention of pursuing special forces. But he loved the idea of a new challenge, passed selection and qualifying, and earned his Green Beret. By the time of the 9/11 Al Qaeda terrorist attacks, Elmore was part of Operational Detachment (ODA) 595, a group that would later become known as the Horse Soldiers.In this edition of Veterans Chronicles, Elmore walks us through qualifying and explains why being mentally tough is just as important as physical toughness in Special Forces. He also explains how his ODA's training in the months leading up to 9/11 turned out to be perfect prepartion for the fight against the Taliban.Elmore takes us up into the Afghan mountains, explains how he and others in his detachment worked alongside Afghan General Abdul Dostum and elements of the Northern Alliance, how he adjusted to the small horses needed to navigate the mountains, and what combat was like approaching Mazar-i-Sharif. He also explains the huge advantages of U.S. air power in their mission and some of the challenges involved in coordinating those air strikes.
Retired Green Beret, Mark Grdovic shares the largely untold story of what came to be known as "Operation Viking Hammer", a 2003 U.S. Army Special Forces mission in northern Iraq that targeted the terrorist group Ansar al-Islam prior to the main invasion. Working alongside Kurdish Peshmerga fighters, 10th Special Forces Group conducted a coordinated assault on entrenched enemy positions in mountainous terrain near Halabja, following Tomahawk strikes. The operation dismantled Ansar al-Islam's stronghold and secured the Kurdish region, enabling follow-on coalition operations deeper into Iraq. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week's podcast, I speak with Arron Ferguson, a former 23-year NSW Police Detective and 24-year Australian Army 1st Commando Regiment Special Forces Operator. Arron joined the army first as a commando, and two years later, he was offered a spot on a deployment to Timor. However, the NSW Police also offered a full-time policing position at the academy. Arron lived a double life as both a Detective and army Special Forces reserve soldier. Arron was involved in hundreds of domestic police investigations and then deployments to Timor and highly kinetic operations in Afghanistan as part of the special operations task force. He was forced into early retirement due to a genetic muscle disease, which took a toll on his mental health and, not to mention, his physical capabilities. In this podcast, Arron talks about the loss of mates while he was deployed in Afghanistan, how policing has changed from when he joined and the true mental cost of serving as a first responder and in the military. Arron also talks about the mental health aspect of loss of purpose and finding purpose again after being diagnosed with this genetic muscle disease, and what every veteran and first responder struggles with transition back to civilian life after living a high kinetic life that veterans and first responders live. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Arron Ferguson Editor: Kyle Watkins
In a live Dispatch Podcast, Steve Hayes and Michael Warren were joined by Dispatch contributing writer and retired Army Special Forces officer Mike Nelson as well as Atlantic staff writer Graeme Wood to break down the U.S. and Israeli military campaign against the Iranian regime and explain what might come next. Watch the livestreamed converation on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/live/PmkW7QDgpDs?si=cd-LNKvv6YctKOG6Show Notes:—Graeme Wood: An Iranian Network Is Ready to Act—Mike Nelson: There's a Case for Striking Iran. President Trump Needs to Make It. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 3215 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the secret war in Laos. The story is titled: Unveiling Secret War Laos: Tales from U.S. Allied Lao Veterans and CIA and U.S. Army Special Forces during … Continue reading → The post Episode 3215 – Shining Light on the Secret War in Laos first appeared on Vietnam Veteran News.
Michael "Rod" Rodriguez was born into a family with a rich legacy of military service. His father and grandfather both served during wartime. Rod decided he wanted to serve after watching what the U.S. military accomplished in Operation Desert Storm.Within months of enlisting in 1992, he was off to Somalia. A couple of years later, Rodriguez decided to pursue Army Special Forces and then became a sniper and a medic. All of that prepared him well for three deployments in Afghanistan following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.In this edition of Veterans Chronicles, Rodriguez tells us about his early deployments to Somalia and Haiti, what qualifying was like for Special Forces, and how he heard the news of 9/11.Rodriguez also takes us to Afghanistan, as he shares the story of how he treated a young Afghan girl who was clearly being abused. He also shares what it was like treating the wounds of his fellow soldiers and how he was seriously injured by a series of explosions on his final deployment. Finally, Rodriguez details how he finally decided to get treatment for his injuries and the important work he is doing today to honor those who served in the Global War on Terrorism.
Jim Hanson is Chief Strategist for the Middle East Forum. He previously served in U.S. Army Special Forces and conducted counterterrorism, counterinsurgency and foreign internal defense operations in more than two dozen countries. He is the author of several books including Winning the Second Civil War - Without Firing a Shot and Cut Down the Black Flag - A Plan to Defeat ISIS.
Steve Bleigh is the son and grandson of Army veterans. He joined the U.S. Army in 1986, fully expecting to be an infantryman throughout his service. When he returned to civilian life eighteen years later, Bleigh had spent 14 years in Army Special Forces and was a veteran of Afghanistan, Iraq, the Gulf War, and the conflict in Somalia.In this edition of Veterans Chronicles, MSG Bleigh tells us about his service in the Gulf War with the 82nd Airborne Division and the lessons he learned there that helped the rest of his years in uniform. Then he talks about selection and qualifying for Special Forces, being deployed as a weapons sergeant in Somalia, how he responded when the mission in Somalia turned deadly, and training to be a medic after returning home.Following the 9/11 Al Qaeda terrorist attacks, Bleigh and ODA 595 were among the first U.S. units to set foot in Afghanistan. Now often referred to as the Horse Soldiers, the unit teamed up with elements of the Northerrn Alliance to force the Taliban from power. Bleigh reflects on the toughest fighting in Afghanistan and being one of very few medics on the ground there.Finally, he details his two tours in Iraq, including the initial invasion and the early, successful hunt for key enemy figures. He then describes a very different second tour, one marked by relentless enemy IED's and maddening rules of engagement.
Dr. David “Wally” Walton is a retired Army Special Forces officer with 25 years of experience in the SF community. His career spans service with the 7th Special Forces Group, Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), and the Special Warfare Center and School.Dr. Walton's extensive operational experience includes deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and across Latin America. Since retiring in 2013, he has transitioned into academia, teaching National Security Studies and Executive Leadership. His research portfolio covers Security Strategy, Organizational Culture and Dynamics, and Human Performance. He has a deep understanding of security studies, encompassing everything from tactical operations to strategic policy discussions.Currently an instructor at JSOC, Dr. Walton is a Subject Matter Expert in Special Forces Assessment and Selection. He specializes in Land Navigation, runs a prep program designed for SFAS candidates, and is the author of multiple books about preparing for SFAS. More about Dr. Walton:Website: https://tfvoodoo.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tf_voo_doo/Timestamps:00:00:23 Introduction to Dr. David Walton00:01:42 Changes within SFSS and Coaching00:20:22 Being Trained in Land Navigation00:30:43 Better Prepared Candidates00:53:34 The Sandman Event00:59:29 Selection Rates and Working Through the Stages01:05:23 No Dependencies in the SFSS Course01:09:47 The "Awaiting Training" Phase 01:11:33 What has Dr. David Walton Changed in Coaching?01:17:08 How Many Books has Dr. Walton Written?01:21:52 Books Everyone Should Read01:26:32 Outro
Nick Brokhausen is a highly decorated U.S. Army Special Forces veteran who served in the secretive Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) from 1970 to 1971, conducting high-risk reconnaissance missions deep behind enemy lines in Vietnam and Laos. On his second tour in Vietnam, he joined Recon Team Habu in Command and Control North (CCN), participating in some of the most dangerous operations of the war. With a 15-year career in the Regiment, Brokhausen undertook classified missions across the globe. He is the author of "We Few: U.S. Special Forces in Vietnam" (2018) and "Whispers in the Tall Grass: Back Behind Enemy Lines with MACV-SOG" (2019), offering firsthand accounts of SOG's covert operations and the camaraderie among elite warriors. He advocates for preserving the history of special operations and honoring the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: Get 30% off your first subscription order at ARMRA by going to https://ARMRA.com/srs or entering code SRS at checkout. Go to https://shopbeam.com/SRS and use code SRS to get up to 50% off Beam Dream Nighttime Cocoa—grab it for just $32.50 and improve your sleep today. Join thousands of parents who trust Fabric to help protect their family—apply today in just minutes at https://meetfabric.com/SHAWN Try ZipRecruiter for free at https://ziprecruiter.com/SRS. Nick Brokhausen Links: Amazon Author Page - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07CKVZHTP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Episode Maxim"Purpose doesn't end when you take off the uniform—find your next mission."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I sit down with retired Green Beret and motorsports competitor, Nick Merrick. After a career built on strategic thinking and resilience in Special Forces, Nick Merrick decided to channel that same drive into motorsports—founding Green Beret Racing as a way to help fellow veterans rediscover purpose through competition. We dive into his military experiences, the transition to civilian life, why competition is key to wellness, and how racing parallels operating in high-pressure environments. Plus, we explore what it means to build a supportive community for veterans beyond service and the wild story behind lifted Crown Vics racing for the Battle of the Branches.Call to ActionIf you enjoyed today's episode, hit subscribe and share it with your friends. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to support the show, and don't forget to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Discord, and Spotify to stay in the loop!Show SponsorsSpecial thanks to tonight's sponsors:OnSite Firearms Training (OFT) – Top-notch instructors who keep your skills sharp. Find a class near you at OFTllcUS.Modern Gun Trade School – Turn your passion for firearms into a career with flexible, online assignments. Learn more at MGS Edu.Key TakeawaysTrust and teamwork are fundamental both in Special Forces and racing—put people in positions that let them succeed and empower them.Competitive hobbies (racing, jiu jitsu, marathons) give veterans purpose and drive, helping with the transition to civilian life.The ability to push past comfort and face adversity is what sets operators apart, but it's also what helps anyone grow.Veterans benefit from organizations that let them choose their path to wellness—competition, camaraderie, and having a mission matter.Green Beret Racing is evolving beyond motorsports, introducing the Battle of the Branches and aiming for nationwide reach across all first responder communities.Guest InformationNick MerrickFounder of Green Beret Racing, retired Army Special Forces warrant officer, and veteran outreach leader. Through Green Beret Racing, Nick creates opportunities for veterans to reclaim purpose, community, and challenge—whether it's through off-road racing, competitions, or simply having something to wake up for.Learn more: greenberetracing.orgFind Nick on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook: Green Beret RacingContact: nick@greenberetracing.orgKeywordsGreen Beret Racing, Special Forces, Nick Merrick, veteran transition, motorsports, Battle of the Branches, purpose...
Get ready for a raw conversation about dreams, regret, brotherhood, and the relentless search for purpose. Drew Goodman shares his journey from baseball fields to Special Forces to the grading seat of a heavy civil contractor, where he's learning that knowing yourself changes everything. WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER: ⚡️Why backing out of Army Special Forces became his greatest regret and teacher ⚡️How four brothers turned their dad's credit card gamble into a construction empire ⚡️The shocking moment family fear stopped his military dreams ⚡️What happens when you pursue self-awareness in a 60-hour work week industry ⚡️Why challenging God with hard questions leads to real faith ⚡️The difference between occupation and vocation that changes everything This episode was recorded live at the Dirt World Summit, where construction professionals, heavy equipment operators, and industry leaders gather to build more than roads. Drew's honesty about faith, identity, and purpose will challenge anyone who thinks they don't have time for personal development. WORK WITH DARON: ⚡️FREE: Jumpstart to Purpose ➡️ https://rb.gy/4qpsgb ⚡️BOOK: The Death of a Dream ➡️ https://rb.gy/a9ifwi ⚡️COACHING: Register ➡️ https://rb.gy/0is05k
Steve Kofron's father and grandfather both served in the military. His grandfather was a U.S. Marine who fought at Iwo Jima. But Kofron had his own reasons for joining the service and the U.S. Army in particular. After a few years, he successfully completed Ranger training. But a short time later he pursued U.S. Army Special Forces and earned his Green Beret. Not long after that, the 9/11 terrorist attacks struck the United States and Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) 595 was among the first units deployed to Afghanistan.In this edition of Veterans Chronicles, Kofron gives us a peek at his elite training, preparing to deploy after 9/11, and flying into Afghanistan. He describes becoming a horse soldier (which he had not planned on) and teaming up with Northern Alliance fighters to take on the Taliban.Kofron tells us about riding horses in steep mountain paths with sheer cliffs just inches away and calling in devastating air strikes on Taliban positions. He details the intense combat at Tiangi Pass near Mazar-i-Sharif and what happened when they finally got to the city.
Steve Hayes is joined by Jonah Goldberg, Dispatch contributor Gil Guerra, and retired Army Special Forces officer Mike Nelson to discuss the Trump administration's capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and what happens next. The Agenda:—Gil for The Dispatch: Why We Toppled Maduro—The administration's rationale—Mike for The Dispatch: Causes for Concern and Celebration—The White House's muddled messaging—The "Donroe Doctrine"—Permanent occupation?—No new wars—NWYT: How to pronounce Maduro The Dispatch Podcast is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including access to all of our articles, members-only newsletters, and bonus podcast episodes—click here. If you'd like to remove all ads from your podcast experience, consider becoming a premium Dispatch member by clicking here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
OUR FAMILY MUSIC ACADEMY: Affordable and effective online weekly music lessons designed for families.https://www.voetbergmusicacademy.comChristmas SALE - Use coupon code: PODCAST25 for 25% off each month.Coupon expires at the end of the day on December 25, 2025.-David Eubank was born in Texas and grew up as the son of Christian missionaries in Thailand before attending Texas A&M University and being commissioned as an officer in the US Army. He is a former U.S. Army Special Forces and Ranger officer, is the founder and leader of the Free Burma Rangers (FBR). Karen grew up in California and Washington State, graduated from Seattle Pacific University and worked as a special education teacher in Washington State. She married David in 1993, and since then they have served as missionaries in Burma, Africa and the Middle East. Karen homeschooled all three of their children. Along with relief, the family's personal mission is to share the love of Jesus Christ and to help people be free from oppression. They work alongside the over 130 ethnic FBR relief teams in the conflict areas of Burma, Iraq, Kurdistan, Syria, and Sudan giving help, hope, and love and putting a light on the situation. The Eubank family started the Global Day of Prayer for Burma and the Good Life Club family outreach program. Website: https://www.freeburmarangers.org Book: "Do This for Love: Free Burma Rangers in the Battle of Mosul" by David Eubank - https://amzn.to/4j7fXld Watch the documentary "Free Burma Rangers" on Amazon Prime & Right Now Media
Scott Robison, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces veteran with 23 years of service, is a founding partner of Kingswood Defense Group and Cadet Holdings and the founder of Camp Cowboy, a nonprofit supporting veterans with the use of equine therapy. Scott specializes in consulting for military and commercial sectors, leveraging deep expertise in emerging technologies and defense strategy, and managing rapid acquisition initiatives. When he retired from the Army, he decided that he wanted to do something for those who struggle with issues from military and public service. That resulted in creating Camp Cowboy in Kemper, Texas. It is operated by veterans to provide FREE Equine Assisted Growth Programs to Service members, Veterans, First Responders, Family members and Gold Star Family members. Through equine-based experience, education, and knowledge, they help participants navigate and overcome stressors and a vast multitude of "life's scars," allowing for a reconnected, well-balanced life change for those in need. His military career highlights include leading the Special Weapons Testing Task Force at Fort Cavazos and overseeing over 300 major defense acquisition programs. He has also led counterterrorism efforts in Iraq and counter-drug operations with federal agencies. Robison holds degrees from the New Mexico Military Institute and University of Colorado and certifications from Defense Acquisitions University.
Tim, Phil, & Elaad are joined by Nick Freitas to discuss Candace Owens implying TPUSA was behind assassination of Charlie Kirk, Sabrina Carpenter losing it over the White House using her song, NYT debunking the Hegseth Narco Bombing hoax, and the GOP winning the special election in Tennessee. Hosts: Tim @Timcast (everywhere) Phil @PhilThatRemains (X) Elaad @ElaadEliahu (X) Producer: Serge @SergeDotCom (everywhere) Guest: Nick Freitas @NickJFreitas (X) Nick Freitas is an American Republican politician, former U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, and social media influencer who has served in the Virginia House of Delegates since 2016.
>Join Jocko Underground< Norm Hooten was a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier (a Green Beret) who became well known because of his role in the Battle of Mogadishu in October 1993, the operation later depicted in the book and film Black Hawk Down.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/jocko-podcast/exclusive-content