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Double Tap - Ep 466 This episode of Double Tap is brought to you by: Foxtrot Mike (Code: WLSISLIFE) Rost Martin (Code: WLSISLIFE) Night Fision (Code: WLSISLIFE) Flatline Fiber Co (Code: WLS15) Bowers Group (Code: WLS) Text Dear WLS or Reviews +1 743 500 2171 Public Show Titles GOA GOALS Aug 1-2 in Iowa. https://goals.goa.org/ JUNE 20th, 2026 GunCon.net Tickets on sale now. Use code AGENCY171 DEAR WLS Question from PlowGuyDave from Colorado When is Aaron coming back? Love, PlowGuyDave Question from Rob K from Connecticut Rob K From ConnecticutDear WLS Hey guys it's Rob again! I finally got my approval paperwork on my Aero M5 in my state after having to register it. Since it will probably be my only AR-10 I'll ever own unless I move I'm looking for ideas on a final build for it. I'm very similar to Nick where I don't want to switch around uppers on my lower. If you guys could only build one AR-10 how would each of you do it? Caliber? Barrel length? Optic? Max range I have access to is 200 yards. I'm open to anything on my final build including switching to 6.5 Creedmoor. It's currently set up with a 18inch Aero upper in 308 with a swampfox 5-25×56 FFP Warhawk. Before Jeremey comments I know the scope is massive for that rifle and range I have. I got a crazy deal on it and couldn't say no but realized it's not ment for my setup. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Bonus question! What bolt rifle would you throw that Warhawk on always down to buy another rifle for the collection. Many thanks guys!!! #WLS is life!!! Question from David Lettuce from TN David Lettuce – Hey Jeremy, how does it feel knowing a teenaged future butter bar is stacking insurgents and getting a knife stateside at Old Dominion while you battle a head cold (it's probably monkeypox)? #scoreboard Question from Bill T from TX Bill T from Tx. I am looking at getting the Bodyguard 2.0. Have y'all heard of anyone making a +3 mag extension for them yet? I can't find anything, though you might have inside info. Question from Anonymous Coward from Oregon If budget was no option what would your full loadout kit look like?From secret admirer GUN INDUSTRY NEWS THEFIREARMBLOG Fischer Development FD-Silencer Austrian manufacturer Fischer Development designed the FD-Silencer to mount directly to a pistol's frame accessory rail rather than threading onto the barrel. This no-modification system adds approximately 165mm in front of the muzzle, weighs 380 grams, and is compatible with Glock 17, 19, 34, 45, and HK SFP9 models in black or FDE finishes. It supports both subsonic and supersonic ammunition without affecting point of impact and allows use of standard iron sights. SHOOTINGWIRE MDT ACC Premier Gen2 Limited Edition Chassis in War-Torn Bronze for Remington 700 Short Action MDT has released a limited, numbered run of its ACC Premier Gen2 competition chassis featuring a War-Torn Bronze Cerakote finish. The chassis is designed for PRS and precision rifle shooting on the Remington 700 Short Action platform with AICS-pattern magazine compatibility. It includes the adjustable SRS-X Premier buttstock and accepts the full range of MDT ACC accessories. THETRUTHABOUTGUNS Scout Rifle Reflex Suppressor Mount The article discusses reflex (over-the-barrel/OTB) suppressors and associated mounting solutions designed to preserve the compact handling, balance, and forward-mounted optic compatibility of Scout rifles. These designs position part of the suppressor body rearward over the barrel, avoiding the forward weight shift and length increase typical of traditional muzzle-mounted cans while delivering effective sound reduction. INSIDE SAFARILAND Pew Locker by Shawn Herrin (Firearms Radio Network) Pew Locker is a mobile-first, zero-knowledge encrypted digital inventory platform for firearm collectors. It supports tracking of firearms, NFA items with tax stamps, ammunition by caliber/brand, optics, suppressors, and other accessories in a real-time dashboard showing total collection value. Key privacy features include 256-bit sodium-authenticated encryption, metadata scrubbing on photos, Burn Notice Protocol for instant permanent deletion, QR-code enabled Range Log for range notes/ammo deduction, Widow View for beneficiary access, and CSV export. THEOUTDOORWIRE Orion Wholesale Partners with Hi-Point Firearms and Taylor Customs to Launch Exclusive Hush-Point Cigar 22 Suppressor Orion Wholesale, Hi-Point Firearms (MKS), and Taylor Customs have collaborated on a limited-run, exclusive .22 suppressor designed to resemble a premium cigar. The Hush-Point Cigar 22 is a monocore suppressor featuring a rich dark brown finish with gold accents, hard-anodized construction, and 1/2×28 direct thread mounting. It is lightweight, easy to install, and provides reliable suppression for .22 rifles and pistols. THEOUTDOORWIRE Bear Creek Arsenal Launches .30-30 Winchester Upper Assemblies and Rifles Bear Creek Arsenal has released .30-30 Winchester upper assemblies and complete rifles featuring a 20-inch parkerized SOCOM barrel, mid-length gas system, MLOK split rail handguard, and options for right-side or rear charging handles. The platform is positioned for hunting applications including deer, feral hog, and black bear. Products are available as of the June 11, 2026 launch date via BearCreekArsenal.com. THEOUTDOORWIRE Zanders Now Carrying GLFA Sub-One Rifle Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, has added the Sub-One lightweight precision rifle from Great Lakes Firearms & Ammunition (GLFA) to its lineup. The rifle features a carbon fiber stock, integrated Arca rail, fluted barrel, adjustable trigger (2-5 lbs), QD mounts, and is offered in .243, .308, and 6.5 Creedmoor calibers with barrel lengths from 18″ to 24″ depending on model. THEOUTDOORWIRE Dead Down Wind All-In-One Hygiene Kit Dead Down Wind (Arcus Hunting) has released the All-In-One Hygiene Kit combining everyday personal care items with the brand's scent-eliminating technology targeted at hunters and outdoorsmen. The kit includes a durable travel bag for organization and use in vehicles, cabins, camps, or daily carry. It is positioned as a practical, year-round Father's Day gift. THEFIREARMBLOG Nightfox Arctic Helmet-Mounted Thermal Monocular Nightfox has released the Arctic, a budget helmet-mountable thermal monocular featuring a 256×192 sensor running at 50fps with ≤30mK NETD sensitivity. It includes a 2.06-inch AMOLED display, IP65 weather resistance, up to 9 hours of battery life from a 3500mAh cell, 32GB microSD storage, and comes with both a head strap and dovetail helmet adapter. The unit weighs under 280g and is positioned as an affordable entry into hands-free thermal imaging for hunting and scanning. THEFIREARMBLOG Warrior Systems Manufacturing Legionary 22 .22 LR Suppressor WSM has released the Legionary 22, a purpose-built direct-thread .22 LR suppressor constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III hardcoat anodized finish. The can weighs 3.5 ounces, measures 1 inch in diameter, and is rated for approximately 27 dB reduction on .22 LR (to 114.10 dB). It features a non-timed baffle stack, ships with a direct thread end cap, wrench, and manual, and carries a limited lifetime warranty. THEFIREARMBLOG XS Sights Magazine Extensions for Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 and Walther PDP XS Sights has released +5 magazine extensions compatible with Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 and Walther PDP pistols. The extensions convert 15-round magazines to 20 rounds and 18-round magazines to 23 rounds. They are machined from aircraft-grade aluminum with a black nitride coating. THEOUTDOORWIRE Colt 1911 USA 250th Anniversary Special Edition – Iron Valley Exclusive Colt and Iron Valley Supply released a serialized, limited-edition Classic Government Model 1911 commemorating America's 250th anniversary. The pistol features a high-polish blued finish with gold embellishments by Baron Engraving depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honoring those who defended U.S. freedoms. It includes satin-finished dark walnut grips inlaid with a Betsy Ross Flag medallion and is available exclusively through Iron Valley Supply. THEOUTDOORWIRE Frank Miniter Releases 'Cool Heroes for Boys—20 True Tales of Adventure' Personal essay by Frank Miniter describing his experience seeking suitable adventure books for his son that feature strong male heroes and accurate American history, particularly stories tied to the Second Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms. Finding youth library sections lacking in traditional Western, adventure, and non-politically correct historical tales, Miniter researched and wrote his own collection of short stories about figures including Paul Revere, George Washington, Alvin York, Sam Walker, Teddy Roosevelt, and Davy Crockett. The book aims to equip the next generation with understanding of freedom to counter anti-gun influences in education. OUTDOORHUB May 2026 FBI NICS Numbers Released The FBI released May 2026 National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) data showing 1,105,758 adjusted checks, a 3.2% increase from May 2025. Unadjusted totals were 1,780,230, down 10.9% year-over-year, while NFA checks surged 100.4% to 146,551. Top states for adjusted checks were Texas, Florida, California, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Before we let you go – JOIN GUN OWNERS OF AMERICA We'd love if you supported the show, join Agency 171 at agency171.com. Lot's of prizes, rewards and kick ass swag. No matter how tough your battle is today, we want you here fight with us tomorrow. Don't struggle in silence,...
Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he covers today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Listener Q&A episode of The Wright Report, Bryan breaks down the latest escalation with Iran, including a dramatic at-sea rescue of two downed Apache pilots using an AI-powered drone boat, and explains what a lasting peace deal would actually require. Listeners push Bryan on oil prices, the Iran endgame, and whether the U.S. should pursue regime change or a strategic withdrawal. He lays out his case for a coordinated pullback backed by covert CIA and SOCOM operations, while also addressing the riots now tearing through Belfast following a brutal attempted beheading by an asylum seeker, and what that moment reveals about the broader clash playing out across Europe. Plus, Bryan covers a landmark development in American-made solar panels, shares a correction on Ivermectin use in dogs, and closes with three pieces of genuinely good news: a simple hospital tip that cuts pneumonia risk by 60%, new UCLA research on creatine and cancer-fighting immune cells, and a stunning case study of an 80-year-old Alzheimer's patient who temporarily recovered speech, memory, and mobility after a single dose of psilocybin. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32 Keywords: Bryan Dean Wright, Wright Report, Iran war, Apache helicopter rescue, Saronic drone boat, Task Force 59, Iran peace deal, JD Vance, oil prices, demand destruction, Belfast riots, Sudan asylum seeker, UK immigration, European migration crisis, QCells solar panels, made in USA solar, screwworm update, Ivermectin dogs, pneumonia prevention hospital, creatine cancer research, killer T cells, UCLA immunotherapy, psilocybin Alzheimer's, dementia treatment, Fourth of July film special
Send us Fan MailGeoffrey Cain, author of Steve Jobs in Exile, joins Joe to explore one of the most overlooked chapters in Steve Jobs' life: the twelve years between his fall from Apple and his return to build one of the most influential companies in the world.This episode looks beyond the familiar story of the iPhone, iPod, and Apple's second act to examine the wilderness years that shaped Jobs into the leader we remember today. After being pushed out of Apple in 1985, Jobs was forced to confront failure, ego, rejection, and the limits of vision without discipline. What followed was a long and painful period of experimentation, mistakes, personal transformation, and eventual renewal through NeXT and Pixar.Geoffrey explains why the Steve Jobs who founded Apple was not the same Steve Jobs who returned in 1997. As a young leader, Jobs was brilliant but difficult, convinced of his own vision but often unable to listen to the people around him. At NeXT, that ego led to missed opportunities, broken relationships, and expensive failure. But over time, those same failures began to teach him the lessons he needed most: focus, discipline, humility, execution, and the ability to work within the limits of reality.Joe and Geoffrey also discuss:Why Steve Jobs' time away from Apple was not wasted, but formativeHow NeXT helped lay the foundation for the Apple products we use todayWhy genius without discipline can end in expensive failureHow Jobs' ego hurt NeXT and nearly destroyed his second actWhat Pixar taught Jobs about trust, creative restraint, and letting talented people do their workWhy failure can become the foundation for future successHow the “wilderness years” shape leaders before they return strongerWhy Jobs came back to Apple quieter, more focused, and more willing to listenWhat leaders can learn from Jobs' journey through failure, reinvention, and returnThis episode is for anyone who has ever gone through a hard season and wondered whether it was wasted. It's also for leaders, builders, creatives, and entrepreneurs who want to better understand how failure, if we are willing to learn from it, can become the preparation for our most important work.A special thanks to this week's sponsors!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Pāj: I know how to see something and see all the intricacies of what it'll take for me to get there.Storytelling has the power to inspire change, and filmmaker A. Pāj Turner is proving just that. Driven by his own experiences and a desire to uplift underserved communities, Pāj is crafting a cinematic world that goes beyond entertainment. His film project, The Emancipation of Limits, tells a powerful, multifaceted story deeply rooted in personal experience.The idea for the project originated during the pandemic, when Pāj wrote a novel of the same title in just four months. He described the film as an evolution of his book that interweaves themes of resilience, crime, and hope. With a military background spanning 28 years, Pāj explained that the protagonist's story reflects elements of his own life, particularly his commitment to community building and his desire to recreate Black Wall Street.“I wanted to create something that had more of a story than just one person getting rich,” Pāj shared. “This character gives his profits to his community to rebuild, to create jobs and opportunity—ultimately to restore Black Wall Street.”What started as a book evolved into a concept film after a trailer of the novel garnered over 400,000 views on Facebook. Encouraged by this response, Pāj learned screenwriting, took acting classes, and collaborated with other creatives to bring his vision to life.This story is not only compelling but timely. Through regulated crowdfunding, Pāj has chosen to retain ownership of his intellectual property while creating opportunities for the community to directly invest in and benefit from the project. “Crowdfunding is a great way to keep hold of your intellectual property while also benefiting the people you aim to serve,” he explained.With The Emancipation of Limits, Pāj combines his creativity, military precision, and unwavering commitment to purpose. He's made it possible for anyone to join his journey by investing in the film via a crowdfunding platform.By supporting this project, investors have the unique opportunity to not only fund a meaningful artistic endeavor but also to be part of a movement that amplifies historically underrepresented perspectives and builds cultural and economic momentum.tl;dr:Military veteran A. Pāj Turner shares his journey from service to filmmaker, blending strategy and creativity.His film, The Emancipation of Limits, explores themes of crime, community, and rebuilding Black Wall Street.Pāj is raising funds via regulated crowdfunding on CineBlock Films to retain ownership and empower supporters.Drawing from personal experiences, the film authentically reflects his life and military accomplishments.Pāj credits his success to “strategic vision” and encourages pursuing one's purpose with full commitment.How to Develop Strategic Vision As a SuperpowerPāj's military career provided him with a keen ability to see the path to success clearly. He described his superpower as “strategic vision,” an innate capability to identify goals and map out precise steps to achieve them. “I know how to see something and see all the intricacies of what it'll take for me to get there,” he explained. Combined with his creativity, this enables him to transform ideas into reality, as he demonstrated with his ongoing film project, The Emancipation of Limits. For Pāj, strategic vision is intertwined with a deep sense of purpose.Pāj recounted his time in Belize, where he worked to support the Belizean forces in drug interdiction operations. During one mission, his team coordinated efforts to intercept a drug boat under the cover of darkness, based entirely on strategic intelligence received from the Pentagon. Though Pāj, as a U.S. service member, could not directly engage in the local Belizean tactics, his role in planning and enabling the mission informed the palpable sense of strategy depicted in his film, which prominently features elements of this real experience.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Discover Your Purpose: Reflect on your passions and align your actions with your broader life goals.Plan with Clarity: Write down goals and systematically outline steps to accomplish them.Combine Action with Adaptability: Once you commit, pursue your vision without hesitation, but stay flexible in execution.Draw from Experience: Use personal stories and professional expertise as inspiration for your creative endeavors.Commit Fully: Pāj advises, “You have to be 110% in it, or it's not going to come out like you expect.”By following Pāj's example and advice, you can make strategic vision a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileA. Pāj Turner (he/him):CEO, A. Pāj Turnervision LLCAbout A. Pāj Turnervision LLC: A. Pāj TurnerVision is a bold independent production company founded by Army/Navy veteran, filmmaker, author, and creative visionary A. Pāj Turner, dedicated to developing powerful, culturally driven stories that merge cinematic entertainment with social impact. Through original intellectual properties like The Emancipation of Limits, the company focuses on elevated storytelling centered on ownership, empowerment, resilience, and rebuilding underserved communities through film, television, literature, and digital media. Blending military discipline, urban authenticity, and visionary filmmaking, A. Pāj Turner Vision aims to create globally impactful content while championing independent Black creators, generational wealth through IP ownership, and transformative narratives that inspire audiences worldwide.Website: apajturner.comWatch the trailer: youtube.com/watch?v=shWudtf5CC4Other URL: app.cineblockfilms.com/campaigns/8614d8db-41d2-4a15-8d36-572038492c18Biographical Information: A. Pāj TurnerVision founder A. Pāj Turner is a filmmaker, author, actor, producer, and retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 whose career spans nearly three decades of military leadership, national defense operations, and creative storytelling. A Chicago native and veteran of both the U.S. Army and Navy, Turner made history as the first African American to achieve the rank of CW5 in the U.S. Army Transportation Corps since its establishment in 1942. Throughout his military career, he served in high-level roles supporting SOCOM, DIA, CYBERCOM, and the Joint Service Provider before transitioning his leadership experience into film and television development. Known to many audiences for his appearances as “Deuce” in Kountry Wayne skits and many independent films, Turner is also the creator of The Emancipation of Limits, a bold multimedia franchise centered on ownership, empowerment, and rebuilding communities through independent storytelling. Through his company, A. Pāj Turner Vision, he is committed to creating culturally impactful films, television, and literary projects that merge entertainment with legacy-building and social transformation.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/richard-turner-959231157Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069089032471Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. 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Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!Watch the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch event featuring visionary founders Carole Spangler Vaughn of Eisana Health, Mark Collins of Emission Free Generators, Daniel Oliver of Rejuvenate Bio, and Diana Tucker of SenoGuard as they present breakthrough innovations in cancer care, clean energy, gene therapy, and healthcare access. Broadcast live on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and LG Smart TV devices via e360tv, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook. Join investors, founders, and changemakers for an interactive experience where you can watch the pitches live, ask questions, vote for your favorite companies, and participate in the Private Investor Session immediately following the show to engage directly with founders and explore investment opportunities. Don't miss this inspiring live event showcasing mission-driven companies creating real-world impact and shaping the future of healthcare, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. Reserve your spot today!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on June 9th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!Devin Thorpe will lead SuperCrowdHour on June 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. In this insightful session, “How to Benchmark Your Impact Crowdfunding Portfolio v. the Stock Market,” Devin will explore how impact investors can evaluate the performance of their regulated investment crowdfunding portfolios alongside traditional stock market benchmarks. Drawing on his experience as a former investment banker, impact investor, and crowdfunding advocate, he will break down practical methods for measuring returns, assessing risk, and understanding the broader value created through impact investing. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how private impact investments compare with public market performance, what metrics matter most, and how to build a more informed long-term investment strategy. Whether you're an experienced impact investor or just beginning to build your crowdfunding portfolio, this SuperCrowdHour will provide valuable insights to help you evaluate both financial and social returns with greater confidence and clarity.SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Join Tampa Bay Innovation and Menlo Park Patents for the Q2 Pitch Showcase, a live gathering for founders, inventors, investors, and startup supporters. Watch selected entrepreneurs pitch bold ideas, network with the innovation community, and see winners earn valuable prizes, including patent, valuation, and investor-meeting opportunities in St. Petersburg, Florida.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Drew Sutton is the founder of Drew Sutton Leadership and creator of Culture Systems — a proprietary leadership architecture that replaces force-of-will management with scalable systems for aligning people, culture, and execution across an entire organization. This episode was recorded live at Innovate Summit in Louisville. Check out their next event in Nashville in October. Vibes improved by Old Commonwealth Kentucky Nectar. A former Chief Engineer at Lockheed Martin, Drew holds 30+ patents in rotorcraft systems and composite structures, and has led cross-disciplinary engineering teams on multimillion-dollar U.S. defense programs spanning Air Force acquisitions, SOCOM prototyping, and research partnerships with Johns Hopkins University and the Air Force Research Laboratory.Today he applies that same systems discipline to leadership development — specializing in the doer-to-leader transition for technical professionals and culture-wide change adoption for organizations in transformation. He delivers 37 talks across leadership, AI integration, multigenerational workforce alignment, change management, and decision architecture, in formats ranging from keynotes to multi-day team engagements.Drew is based in Georgetown, Kentucky and serves clients nationally.
Send us Fan MailSam Yo, Peloton instructor, former West End theater performer, and author of The Monk's Mindset, joins Joe to talk about discipline, mindfulness, and learning how to bring the right effort to every part of our lives.Joe and Sam explore Sam's journey from early success on the stage to life in a Thai monastery, and eventually to Peloton. Along the way, they discuss what it means to slow down, reflect, build daily anchors, and stop confusing constant movement with meaning.Joe and Sam also discuss: Why life is more like a jigsaw puzzle than a straight line How early success can still leave us feeling restless What Sam learned from entering a monastery with only five possessions The difference between discipline and self-destruction Why meditation isn't about clearing the mind How small morning anchors can shape the rest of your day Why we should celebrate small wins instead of rushing past them What “right effort” means when no one is watching How Sam's monastery lessons shaped his work at Peloton Whether you're navigating a transition, trying to build better habits, or feeling pulled through life on autopilot, this episode is for anyone looking to slow down, reconnect with the present, and bring more intention to the way they show up each day. And connect with Joe on Peloton (GreenNotebookJ)Watch the interview on YouTube!A special thanks to this week's sponsors!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
Send us Fan MailToday on The Prather Point LIVE at 2 pm ET on:https://rumble.com/v79umfk-ex-delta-dale-comstock-socom-strategy-now.htmlSPECIAL OPERATIONS THEN & NOW! IRAN RESCUE OP COVER OR CLANDESTINE?CIA GROUND BRANCH BOMBS CARTEL IN MEXICO! IS TRUMP COUNTERING CHINA'S UNRESTRICTED WARFARE?
Watch online: https://youtu.be/uvAyxlmpBdk We spent two days in Waco, Texas, inside the L3Harris facility where the Sky Raider II International™ is built. From the beginning, where an 802 Air Tractor enters the production line until it rolls out as Air Force Special Operations Command's newest airplane, the OA-1K Sky Raider II. We dive into what it takes to turn a crop duster into a precision-strike and ISR platform capable of operating from austere environments with only a two-man crew and 6,000 pounds of ordnance. Exclusive access to the production line, the weapons systems, and the people who build and fly it. Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) Prep with AFOQT Wingman https://afoqtwingman.com/Code: AFTERBURN for 10% off
In this episode, host Robert "Bob" Pizzini interviews retired Navy Commander and PhD Joseph Dituri, also known as "Dr. Deep Sea." Joseph, a Navy diver and engineering duty officer, served 28 years, during which he earned a master's in astronautical engineering and led deep submergence and submarine rescue capabilities. He later contributed to the development of the SEAL Dry Combat Submersible at SOCOM. Joseph shares his background, which involved growing up between New York and Italy, developing a strong work ethic, and entering Navy diving through early assignments and mentorship. Following his Navy career, he obtained a PhD in biomedical engineering, specializing in life support and hyperbaric/hypobaric medicine, and authored works, including hyperbaric medicine guidance. He achieved a Guinness World Record with Project Neptune 100 by living underwater for 100 days. This endeavor aimed to study the prolonged effects of hyperbaric conditions, promote ocean preservation, and inspire STEM education. Dr. Joseph also recounts his recovery from a traumatic brain injury using a multimodal protocol, discusses the safety and mechanisms of hyperbaric treatment, and defines leadership as a practice of giving back through knowledge and mentorship. Learn about all of these and more nuggets of insight in this latest episode of the Elevate Your Leadership podcast. KEY TAKEAWAYS Work ethic is foundational — Joe's parents modeled relentless hard work with zero tolerance for laziness, which made military culture feel natural from day one. Diversity of thought is what actually solves problems — background and upbringing shape how you think, not just who you are. Healing TBI (and most serious injuries) requires a combination approach — no single treatment works; hyperbaric oxygen, CBT, physical therapy, neurofeedback, and grounding all played a role in Joe's recovery. Residual self-image is a hidden danger after major life transitions — losing your military identity without replacing it can lead to crisis; look inward and redefine yourself early. The ocean is an untapped pharmacy — a compound discovered at the bottom of the Mariana Trench showed partial Alzheimer's-fighting properties; we've barely explored what's there. Living underwater proved hyperbaric pressure improves mental health markers — PTSD, anxiety, and sleep scores all improved after 100 days at depth. Leadership is knowledge transfer — accumulate wisdom, then give it away generously; your name is irrelevant, but what you pass on lives forever. Constant, never-ending improvement — the only goal is to be better than you were yesterday. QUOTES Leadership is basically giving back to whoever you're around, whatever knowledge you have." — Dr. Joe Dituri "Diversity of thought — that's where we miss the boat. I don't care about your color or your gender. I care that we solve the problem." "Nobody will remember my name in a hundred years. But hopefully some of that wisdom left me and went to somebody." "The drug company model is change one thing. The real human model is change everything and fix the f***ing problem." "Hyperbaric oxygen doesn't cure anything. It just helps your body heal itself." "I'm looking at the man in the mirror — and I'm asking him to change his ways. That's the work." "Science wins over BS. You gotta do the science." "Permission granted, Aquanaut — fix the problem." — Admiral McRaven to Dr. Dituri "When I went into the military, it was like — you want me to wake up early and never quit? I can do this. This is like being at home." Connect and learn more from Joseph Dituri.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-dituri-ph-d-5099789/ Website: https://drdeepsea.com/ About Robert: Robert is a #1 Best Selling Author, Speaker, Award-Winning CEO, and above all, a Leadership Coach by heart. Join Robert and together you will lead with confidence, unify your team, and expand your comfort zone. Where to find Robert: Website - https://robertpizzini.com/ Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevate-your-leadership/id1547181480 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqx9fuoZnq0--c1ttdckwLg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us Fan MailPeaches is back for the April 15 Daily Drop—and yeah, this one's a mix of chaos and flexes.Naval blockade is fully in effect—zero ships moving in or out of Iranian ports while 100+ aircraft and a massive force posture lock things down. Meanwhile, drones are crashing, Rangers keep winning (again), Marine snipers are taking trophies, and the Air Force is basically begging for more aircraft before things get worse.Oh—and Space Force is hiring like crazy while SOCOM is quietly building AI tools for pilots.Peaches keeps it real: some of this is impressive… some of this is overdue… and some of it should probably concern you more than it does.Bottom line: things are moving fast—and not everyone is ready for where this is going.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 Daily Drop—Let's Go 01:00 ROTC Cadets & Real-World Readiness 03:00 Anti-Drone Training—Future Fight 05:00 Rangers Win Again (No Surprise) 07:00 Navy Drone Crash—What Happened? 09:00 Marine Snipers Take the Win 11:00 OTS Nashville Almost Sold Out 13:00 Air Force Needs WAY More Aircraft 16:00 Academy Leadership Shake-Up 18:00 Jared Isaacman—Low-Key Flex 20:00 Space Force Hiring Surge 22:00 Satellite Production Push 24:00 Coast Guard Icebreaker Mission 26:00 War “Almost Over”? 28:00 Blockade Holds—Zero Movement 30:00 AI Pilots Are Coming 32:00 Final Thought—Pay Attention
Send us Fan MailJudd Kessler—a professor at the Wharton School and author of Lucky by Design—joins Joe to explore the hidden markets that shape our lives, careers, and opportunities.Joe and Judd discuss how many of the most important decisions we encounter—from job promotions to school admissions to performance evaluations—aren't driven by price, but by rules we rarely see or fully understand. These “hidden markets” determine who gets what, often leaving people frustrated, confused, or convinced that success comes down to luck.Throughout the conversation, they examine how understanding the rules of these markets can shift outcomes, why preparation and self-awareness matter more than we think, and how leaders—whether they realize it or not—are constantly designing markets through the way they allocate time, attention, and opportunity.They also explore practical strategies for navigating these environments, from competing in high-speed, first-come-first-serve systems to knowing when it's better to “settle for silver” rather than walk away empty-handed.Joe and Judd also discuss: What “hidden markets” are—and why they're everywhere Why success often looks like luck (but isn't) How understanding the rules gives you a competitive advantage The strategy of “settling for silver” to improve your odds Why preparation and clarity of values matter before entering any competition How poorly designed systems invite “speculators” and unintended consequences The three E's of market design: efficiency, equity, and ease Why leaders must be intentional about how they allocate time, attention, and opportunity How misaligned or unclear expectations can quietly shape careers The importance of aligning who you are with what the system rewards Whether you're navigating promotions, competing for opportunities, or leading others in high-stakes environments, this episode offers a powerful framework for understanding the systems around you—and how to operate within them more effectively.Watch the full episode on YouTubeA special thanks to this week's sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.
Episode #212 of the PricePlow Podcast covers tactical nutrition from two perspectives that rarely share a microphone: the soldier who tested an ingredient in active combat and the scientist who helped commercialize it. Retired Green Beret Chris Lobb, who served nearly 13 years in the Army with a decade in special operations (including five years with the 10th Special Forces Group), joins PLT Health Solutions Director of Sports and Active Nutrition Brett Bernier to explore what performance supplementation actually looks like under operational conditions. The episode’s anchor is Chris’s firsthand account of testing unlabeled CellFlo6® capsules in Afghanistan in 2019, five years before PLT’s commercial partnership with the ingredient launched. The conversation covers sustained energy management without crashes, caffeine optimization through zümXR®, adaptogen stacking with ingredients like Rhodiolife®, and delivery format innovation (gummies, lozenges, dissolvable strips) suited for environments where water is scarce and silence is mandatory. Brett brings relevant credibility of his own: four years in the Marine Corps as a scout swimmer and assault climber, followed by 16 years in dietary supplements. Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast and sign up for PLT Health Solutions and CellFlo6 alerts on PricePlow before diving in. https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/tactical-nutrition-cellflo6-212 Video: Tactical Nutrition with Chris Lobb and PLT Health’s Brett Bernier https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWCVFiisTm0 Detailed Show Notes: Tactical Nutrition with Chris Lobb and Brett Bernier of PLT Health Solutions (0:00) – Introductions (4:30) – Tactical Nutrition: The Core Need States (9:45) – The CellFlo6® Origin Story: Afghanistan 2019 (14:15) – Operations Tempo and Sleep Management (17:00) – Managing Energy Without Crashing (21:00) – What Is CellFlo6®? (23:00) – Blood Flow, Cognition, and Hydration Effects (27:15) – CellFlo6® in the Stack: Where Does It Fit? (31:45) – Packing for Operations: Weight, Water, and Format (33:30) – Tactical Delivery Innovation: Gummies, Strips, and Lozenges (39:00) – Creatine for SOCOM and MRE Reform (41:45) – Optimization vs. Endurance: SOCOM Performance Culture (47:15) – Caffeine Science and the zümXR® Advantage (49:30) – Going 18X-Ray: Chris’s Path to Special Forces (56:00) – The Many Hats of a Green Beret (58:30) – Tactical Nutrition Across Life Phases (1:02:30) – Holistic Supplement Philosophy Where to Follow and Learn More Connect with Chris Lobb and Brett Bernier Instagram: @strikefire_survival — Chris Lobb’s primitive survival training account LinkedIn: Brett Bernier — Director of Sports and Active Nutrition, PLT Health Solutions Connect with PLT Health Solutions PLT Health Solutions Website LinkedIn: PLT Health Solutions … Read more on the PricePlow Blog
On April 8, 2026, The Charlie James Show delivered a high-stakes broadcast dominated by the fragile two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, analyzing CNN's coverage of Tehran's 10-point proposal and the nostalgic contrast of 1970s Westernized Iran. The show tackled domestic firestorms over the DIGNIDAD Act, which James and callers framed as a "Democrat amnesty" plot, and celebrated Clay Fuller's Trump-endorsed victory in Georgia's 14th district. The final hours took a sharp turn into investigative territory, detailing the FBI's arrest of a former SOCOM employee via Kash Patel and whistleblower Amy Williams' leaks from Ft. Bragg, while also addressing Al Sharpton's controversial boycott of America's 250th Anniversary.
Send us Fan MailJaron Wharton—a former brigade commander in the 82nd Airborne Division and co-editor of Bend but Do Not Break joins Joe to examine the future of the all-volunteer force and the role of professional discourse in strengthening the military. Joe and Jaron discuss how education and self-study shape better leaders, why intellectual curiosity is essential in command, and how stepping outside of purely tactical experiences helps leaders avoid what Joe describes as a “soda straw” view of the world. They also reflect on the dangers of groupthink inside hierarchical organizations and the responsibility leaders have to create space for dissenting ideas.Throughout the conversation, they explore the growing disconnect between the military and the society it serves, the risks of an emerging “warrior caste,” and why service must be valued beyond just those in uniform.Joe and Jaron also discuss: Why education prepares leaders not just for success—but for failure The danger of an “anti-intellectual bend” in the military How groupthink develops—and how leaders can actively fight it Why publishing isn't the goal—promoting conversation is The risks of a widening civil-military gap Why service should be celebrated across all professions—not just the military The importance of giving junior leaders a voice in shaping the profession What it might take to mobilize society for large-scale conflict Whether you're a junior leader trying to find your voice, a senior leader thinking about the future of the force, or someone simply interested in the relationship between the military and society, this episode offers a thoughtful and challenging look at where we are—and where we may be headed.Also, check out Bend but Do Not Break, with proceeds supporting Wear Blue: Run to Remember.Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind.
Let us know what you think!Brig Barker shares his transition from military service to the FBI and offers a deep dive into counterterrorism, interagency collaboration, and national security strategy. This episode highlights leadership, mentorship, mental health, and the importance of family in high-performance environments.In This Episode, We Cover:Transition from military to FBI Counterterrorism operations and strategy Interagency collaboration with SOCOM Evolution of global and domestic threats Leadership and mentorship Mental health and resilience Family and work-life balance Key Takeaways:Collaboration between agencies saves lives Tracking financial networks is critical in counterterrorism Strong mentorship shapes elite leaders Chapters:00:00 Introduction to a Life of Service02:55 The Influence of Family and Mentorship05:58 Transitioning from Military to FBI09:05 Understanding the Scope of the FBI's Work12:07 Experiences in International Operations15:08 The Complexity of Immigration and National Security18:04 The Evolution of Counterterrorism Efforts20:56 Working with SOCOM and Interagency Collaboration23:59 Challenges in Domestic Counterterrorism26:57 Reflections on Current Threats and Prevention Strategies32:45 Understanding Terrorism: The Evolution of Threats34:14 The Reality of Domestic Threats36:36 Navigating Protests: Safety and Awareness39:54 Transitioning from Law Enforcement: Personal Reflections42:17 The Importance of Mental Health in Transition48:14 Balancing Family and Career in High-Stress Professions52:32 Writing and Sharing Knowledge: The Journey of an AuthorSponsored by: Dr. Mark Gordon & Millennium Health Centers Get the book Peptides for Health Vol.1 Medical Edition today. Use code PTH25 for 25% off through March 15 Use code Phase2P for 10% off Millennium products Available only at MillenniumHealthStore.com PRECISION WELLNESS GROUP Use code: Security Halt Podcast 25Website: https://www.precisionwellnessgroup.com/ Security Halt Mediahttps://www.securityhaltmedia.com/ Instagram: @securityhaltX: @SecurityHaltTik Tok: @security.halt.podLinkedIn: Deny Caballero Connect Brig TodayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brig-barker/Website: https://valensglobal.com/Support the showProduced by Security Halt Media
Nick Koumalatsos, Marine Raider, returns for the final segment of Episode 283. The discussion examines the Epstein case as a form of systemic leverage, followed by a critical assessment of U.S. strikes in Iran—questioning underlying motives, strategic interests, and broader implications. They address the rapid integration of AI in warfare, including autonomous targeting and the diminishing role of human judgment in combat. The conversation also considers the potential for SOCOM to operate as its own branch, along with emerging ideas around energy and recovery that remain outside mainstream focus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Send a textAndy Yakulis—West Point graduate, former Army pilot, and Special Operations officer turned defense tech entrepreneur—joins Joe to talk about leadership, transition, and the rapidly changing nature of modern warfare.Recruited to West Point just days before September 11th, Andy entered the Army knowing he would serve during a generation defined by war. After flying Kiowa Warrior helicopters and spending nearly a decade in Special Operations, he became increasingly frustrated with the gap between the technology soldiers used in combat and what existed in the civilian world.Together, they discuss Andy's decision to leave the Army at 18 years to start Vector, a company focused on unmanned systems, as well as the challenges of military transition, the realities of leadership in the private sector, and how paying attention to what captures your curiosity might reveal the work you're meant to pursue.Watch the full interview on YouTube!Joe and Andy also discuss:Why physical fitness and sleep still shape Andy's decision-making as a CEOThe value of civilian education for military leadersThe “Saturday morning coffee test” for discovering what you're passionate aboutWhy veterans shouldn't feel pressure to find the perfect post-military job immediatelyThe challenge of leading teams in the private sectorWhy the future of warfare may shift from one operator controlling one drone to one operator orchestrating manyWhether you're transitioning out of the military, exploring entrepreneurship, or curious how technology is changing warfare, this episode offers insights on leadership, innovation, and pursuing work you feel called to do.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside
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.
Send a textPeaches and Trent riff on an uncomfortable truth the Air Force rarely markets well: per capita, it's the most lethal force in modern warfare. From GWAT kill ratios and budget realities to why “Chair Force” jokes might actually be strategic misdirection, this episode spirals into a candid breakdown of how the services really operate. They dig into logistics versus lethality, why the Army wins wars by sustaining them, how the Navy quietly controls the underwater domain, and why the Space Force affects everyone whether they realize it or not. The conversation also tackles SOCOM funding myths, why selection and pipelines aren't interchangeable, the reality of special mission units, and how expensive it is to create—and keep—elite capability. Messy, funny, blunt, and very Ones Ready.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 Ones Ready intro and sponsor plug 03:00 OTS explanation and what it is not 06:45 Peaches' per-capita lethality hot take 09:30 Air Force vs Army vs Navy reality check 12:00 Budget myths and service comparisons 14:00 Space Force impact explained simply 16:00 GWAT lethality and air dominance 18:30 Logistics wins wars—Army perspective 21:00 Why ST isn't a unilateral force 23:30 SOCOM funding myths clarified 26:30 Selection vs pipeline differences 31:00 Why SOCOM doesn't “shut down” pipelines 35:30 Competition, standards, and why comparison is dangerous 40:00 Cost of training elite forces 45:00 Life in special mission units vs white side 49:00 Panels, recruiting, and community outreach 54:00 Lethality, truth, and why the Air Force undersells itself 56:30 Closing thoughts and upcoming OTS events
Discover the future of social commerce directly from the experts at LTK, YouTube Shopping, and Gap Inc. Live from SoCom in sunny Venice, Lauren and Josh break down the shift from relevance to revenue in the creator economy. In this episode, we explore why follower counts are losing their weight, how affiliate marketing is evolving, and the ways legacy brands integrate social platforms into retail experiences.What you'll learn:-- Why social followers and subscribers don't matter anymore.-- How LTK's new brand platform is democratizing creator marketing.-- The massive impact of YouTube Shopping timestamps and auto-tagging.-- Gap Inc.'s omnichannel approach to capturing consumer demand.00:00 Intro: Live from SoCom05:13 Interview: Amber Venz Box (LTK)09:08 Why Followers Don't Matter Anymore16:41 Democratizing the Creator Ecosystem20:26 AI Chatbots and Trust in Creators25:46 Interview: Lauren Celinski (YouTube Shopping)28:25 Maximizing YouTube Shopping Features36:05 Interview: Damon Berger (Gap Inc.)38:59 Gap's Social Commerce Strategy44:50 Final Thoughts and OutroCreator Upload is your creator economy podcast, hosted by Lauren Schnipper and Joshua Cohen.Follow Lauren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schnipper/Follow Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajcohen/Original music by London Bridge: https://www.instagram.com/londonbridgemusic/Edited and produced by Adam Conner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamonbrand
In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, Ryan Atencio shares his experience as someone who has worked both sides of the table — first as a government customer developing performance work statements, cost estimates, and source selections for tens of millions of dollars in contracts, and later as a contractor selling directly to Special Operations units after leaving the military in 2021. He shares how capturing end-user requirements and building custom "kits" can create a powerful edge that competitors can't easily match. The conversation then goes behind the curtain into the world of Special Operations professional service contracts, including highly specialized SERE (Survive, Evade, Resist, Escape) training support. You will get a rare look at how opportunities are found live on SAM.gov, shaped through source sought responses, and "shredded" quickly using AI tools like Gemini to extract the who/what/why before competition even wakes up. This is a masterclass in modern capture strategy for serious federal contractors. Key Takeaways: Winning starts before the RFP — source sought responses help shape the requirement early Contractors who understand the "customer side" gain a major advantage in DoD procurement AI shredding tools can accelerate bid/no-bid decisions and opportunity analysis in minutes If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding
Send us a textPeaches and Trent break down the growing fallout around Gen. “Fat Tony” Bauerfeind, his short tenures at AFSOC and the Air Force Academy, and why leadership failures don't happen in a vacuum. From berating cadets in locker rooms to misreading SOCOM priorities and alienating donors, staff, and subordinates, this episode walks through how ego, insulation, and ignoring the chain of command can wreck organizations fast. The conversation expands into general officer culture, why the Army and Marines produce different leaders than the Air Force and Navy, and how credibility is built—or destroyed—by shared hardship. Add in a side discussion on AI in cockpits, human-machine teaming, pilot override authority, and why trust still matters more than tech, and you get a classic Ones Ready mix of hard truths, humor, and uncomfortable accountability.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 Ones Ready intro and sponsor chatter 02:00 OTS Alabama registration reminder 04:30 Fat Tony, AFSOC, and short command tours 07:00 USAFA leadership complaints and cadet treatment 10:00 Berating subordinates vs fixing the chain 12:30 Why yelling at the bottom never works 15:00 Flying authority, CV-22 incident, and Q-3 fallout 18:30 Why cadets aren't the problem 21:00 SOCOM priorities vs DEI messaging 24:00 How leaders misread their environment 27:00 Fragile ego and insulation at senior ranks 30:00 Army and Marine leadership pipelines contrasted 34:00 PT credibility and leading from the front 37:00 National Guard DC shooting and Purple Heart criteria 41:00 Weapons carry, chambered rounds, and training gaps 48:00 Super Bowl flyover and airpower optics 54:00 AI in cockpits and auto-eject concerns 58:30 Human-machine teaming and pilot-trained AI 01:01:20 Closing thoughts and wrap-up
Join us at SoCom 2026, the Social Commerce Conference. February 26 in Venice Beach and save 20% with code FCSC2026Damon Berger, Head of Consumer Digital Engagement at Gap Inc., joins the show to share the strategy behind the brand's comeback. He unpacks the playbook for rebuilding an iconic brand, why it worked for Barbie, and why creator capital is the new north star. Plus, he reveals how Gap moved from "chasing relevance” to driving it, and why brand distinction is the new survival strategy against the sea of AI slop.Gap is Back, Baby.Key Takeaways:Creators are the cultural conduit, building conversational capital through authentic audience relationshipsGap's KATSEYE campaign sparked participation, not just viewership, enabling fans to own the momentPurpose-driven brands live their values quietly rather than preaching them publiclyBrand distinction becomes a survival strategy when 50% of internet traffic is botsGet Blue partnership scales Gap's influence to address global water access for 200M peopleDamon Berger [03:33]: "Creators are the conduit to what is kind of cool out in the world...the idea for us is that we have a variety of relationships with them."Damon Berger [12:14]: "That was really why one of the reasons that it was so popular and shared and viral...people started taking that video and doing all their own dances and doing their own interpretations to it and expressing themselves and joining a larger conversation."Damon Berger [15:14]: "We were just being ourselves. We were just living our own brand values, where we believe in the value of diverse voices. We believe in people being themselves no matter what."Damon Berger [29:26]: "In the sea of sameness and the sea of AI slop and all of these worlds of not really knowing who you're buying from…[brand distinction] is what people care about, and that's how we've won over the last couple of years."In-Show Mentions:Gap's "Better in Denim" Campaign - Viral campaign featuring "Milkshake" by KelisGet Blue Initiative - Partnership with Gap Inc., Amazon, Starbucks, and EcolabAssociated Links:Check out Future Commerce on YouTubeCheck out Future Commerce Plus for exclusive content and save on merch and printSubscribe to Insiders and The Senses to read more about what we are witnessing in the commerce worldListen to our other episodes of Future CommerceHave any questions or comments about the show? Let us know on futurecommerce.com, or reach out to us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. We love hearing from our listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Gabriel Fanelli is back on the Grey Dynamics Podcast, and this time as our new Director of Training.Look, I've been wanting to have this conversation since we first met. Gabe's trajectory is different from most people in the intelligence world. Bronze Star recipient, 14 years in the Army, former SOCOM instructor, fluent in Arabic, and now leading our training programs at Grey Dynamics. But what makes this conversation special isn't just his resume.We went deep on this one. We talked about what it really means to be a crypto linguist, not the Hollywood version. But the actual work of listening to intercepted communications while sitting in a forward operating base in Syria. We talked about why he hated being stuck in a SCIF and how he found his way to tactical SIGINT work where he could actually connect with people on the ground.But we also talked about languages in a way I haven't explored on this podcast before. Gabe's father was an archaeologist, and he grew up surrounded by Middle Eastern artifacts and culture. His love for Arabic didn't come from military necessity. It came from genuine fascination. And that makes all the difference when you're trying to connect with people. Whether you're an intelligence collector or just someone trying to understand the world better.We touched on OSINT and where it sits in the intelligence ecosystem. Gabe's take is refreshing. OSINT isn't better than SIGINT or HUMINT, and those disciplines aren't better than OSINT. They're all sinew connecting different parts of the same body. The gatekeeping and chest-pounding about which INT is superior misses the point entirely.And then we got philosophical. We talked about AI's role in intelligence work, about writing and how to convey complex ideas without sucking the humanity out of them, about the goal in life not being happiness but usefulness. Gabe wrote a book called The Resilient Dad after losing a friend to suicide, and his perspective on fatherhood, masculinity, and what it means to show up for people hit differently than most self-help nonsense you see online.This is probably the most introspective conversation I've had on this podcast. Usually I'm just listening and learning from guests, but because Gabe and I are already friends, this felt more like two people thinking out loud together. If you're interested in intelligence tradecraft, if you care about language and cross-cultural communication. Or if you're just trying to figure out how to be a better human being in a world that's increasingly automated and disconnected—this one's for you.And for those asking: yes, Gabe will be launching our Operational OSINT Fundamentals course soon, along with an open-source SIGINT course for people who want to get their feet wet in that world. More details are coming.Listen now and see why I'm so excited to have Gabe on the team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Communication is the backbone of every military operation. How well our forces talk to each other across air, land, sea and space is what sets the American military apart from everyone else. Without communication leaders can't lead, and militaries can't win. From the Global Special Operations Symposium in Athens, Greece, Fran Racioppi sat down with Dr. Lisa Costa, a leading technologist, former Chief Information Officer for U.S. Special Operations Command, and the first Chief Technology and Innovation Officer for the U.S. Space Force, to discuss how innovation, cyber, and modernization are reshaping Special Operations across all domains.Dr. Costa brings decades of experience at the crossroads of defense, technology, and strategic innovation. From running one of the Department of Defense's largest IT enterprises supporting elite global SOF operations to spearheading digital transformation efforts in the Space Force, she has helped architect the future of how our forces fight, communicate, and adapt.She addressed the evolving threat landscape, including cyber attacks, space domain challenges and why staying ahead through technology, data, and innovation is no longer optional. She emphasized the importance of agility, integration, and forward-thinking capability as the bedrock of a modern force ready for tomorrow's missions.This discussion is about building advantage through technology, strengthening alliances across domains, and protecting America by ensuring the force evolves with the threat.Highlights0:00 Introduction1:36 Welcome to GSOF Europe3:15 USSOCOM CIO & Space Force's CTIO6:02 Communications Evolution8:51 DoD Civilian Workforce13:43 Special Operations LSCO16:41 SOF Space Cyber Triad19:24 The Space Battlefield22:17 Lunar South Pole24:35 War Today26:18 Combatting misinformation28:38 Defining AI30:22 Human in the loop31:33 Guardrailing AI Weaponization34:06 Advancing Time to Technology35:48 Citizen Based37:06 Ground Level Innovation40:46 Buying Commercial Resources45:10 The Next BattlefieldQuotes“I might be the only person wearing both a SOCOM and Space Force pin.” “Communications is absolutely critical.” “It has gone from big bulky equipment to a binary signal.” “Civilians are part of the force.” “I look at SOF as the tool and capability to prevent us going to war.”“The best battle space is the one we never have to put a boot into.” “There is not even a position, navigation, and timing capability on the lunar surface.” “Is it the person who discovered it or the person who gets there first?”“We're fighting for data.”“It's not there because we're using AI.”“I do not define AI as just Large Language Models.”“There are going to be mission specific incidents where AI is going to have to be trusted to make that decision.”“Don't sign up for Chinese AI.”“Operation Spiderweb was one pilot to every drone. That is not scalable.”“It's going to have to take everyone.”“It comes down to the operational planners that are doing that risk assessment.”“I believe that we will rely greatly on commercial assets.”“There are areas of space that we have not taken advantage of.”“I hope that the future of the battle space is much more cognitive.”“I always put the operator in charge of a project, not a PhD.”“Always prepare for the next unknown mission.”Follow the Jedburgh Podcast and the Green Beret Foundation on social media. Listen on your favorite podcast platform, read on our website, and watch the full video version on YouTube as we show why America must continue to lead from the front, no matter the challenge.
In This Hour: REBROADCAST - of 11.23.25 -- U.S. SOCOM awards a contract for a new rifle. Mike Milhalski explains how a Texas gun company, Sons Of Liberty Gun Works, got this coveted contract and reveals whether those outside the military will be able to buy one. -- How to survive a road rage attack. -- Lightweight rifles are popular, but they require special techniques for full accuracy. Gun Talk 01.18.26 Hour 2Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gun-talk--6185159/support.
We're finally saying "Happy Hanukkah" again! David Waldman and Greg Dworkin bring glad tidings and pertinent information. Is it better when Donald K. Trump goes on primetime to say nothing? If so, Trump delivered last night. It was tough to come up with takeaways or see any points Trump made, even with PowerPoint, but even harder to paint anything he said as factual, truthful, or remotely not deranged. Trump blamed everyone but him and was furious that all credit did not go to him, so expect this speech periodically through the rest of his term. The one piece of actual news is the promise of Merry Christmas checks to armed service members, in other words, the "basic allowance for housing" that hubristic underhanded moron is BS-ing unassuming GIs, by calling it a "warrior dividend". If Trump wasn't so bad at corruption he could have retired by now. Susie Wiles hasn't lasted this long by going around pointing out everyone's moral, legal or rational shortcomings, you know. Democrats are, of course, frustrated by their lack of control in the House, but it could be worse. They could be Mike Johnson. In other acronym news, Congress wants to know why the Space Force needs a SOCOM, or "special operations component command".
Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, Bryan exposes a billion-dollar Somali fraud ring in Minnesota, breaks down Washington's new terror finance investigation, and explains how decades of immigration, politics, and cultural denial allowed the scheme to flourish. He then turns to global flashpoints involving Venezuela, Ukraine, deep-sea espionage, and a major warning from the CIA to Britain about Chinese infiltration. Minnesota Meltdown and Somali Fraud Network: A sweeping federal and state investigation has uncovered more than one billion dollars in fraud committed by Somali-run nonprofits in Minnesota. Money meant for disabled children, addicts, and food assistance was instead funneled into luxury lifestyles and sent to al-Shabaab in Somalia. State officials knew years ago that the organizations were bogus, yet Democrat leaders like Governor Tim Walz expanded funding and backed off oversight after Somali activists accused them of racism. Bryan cites the New York Times report confirming the scale of the crime and the cultural norms behind it. Treasury Department Opens Terror Finance Probe: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has launched a new national security investigation into Minnesota's Somali crime rings after evidence showed U.S. taxpayer cash was being carried in suitcases to Mogadishu to fund Islamist clan conflicts. Bryan notes that virtually all offenders are naturalized or U.S.-born citizens, which means deportation will require de-naturalization rather than standard immigration enforcement. Judges and Police Under Pressure: Minnesota's political climate has made honest policing and prosecution nearly impossible. The Minneapolis police chief apologized after acknowledging Somali youth crime, and a local judge overturned a jury verdict in a seven-million-dollar Medicaid fraud case despite overwhelming evidence. Bryan argues that political fear of offending a key voting bloc has paralyzed the state's justice system. Venezuela Double Tap Controversy: New reporting confirms that eleven cartel boat operators were killed during a U.S. strike in early September, including a possible second strike that hit wounded survivors. The White House says the second hit was ordered lawfully by SOCOM's Admiral Mitch Bradley, not by President Trump or Secretary Pete Hegseth. Democrats insist it is a war crime, and Republicans say they will investigate. Ukraine Turmoil and Russian Advances: Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, resigned after corruption raids, deepening Ukraine's internal crisis. Russia captured the key city of Pokrovsk and is now striking deeper into Ukraine's interior. Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff meets Vladimir Putin today for a high-stakes round of peace talks. Russian Spy Network Under the Arctic: French and British media uncovered a fifteen-year Russian operation called Harmony that built an underwater surveillance web of cables and sensors in the Barents Sea. The network tracks NATO and U.S. submarines near Russia's nuclear bases. The CIA and European services have been secretly countering the effort for years. CIA Warns Britain Over Chinese Water Takeover: The CIA and senior Trump officials privately urged British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to block a Chinese purchase of Thames Water, the utility that supplies London. U.S. intelligence warns that Chinese ownership could jeopardize American troops in Britain and give Beijing control over critical UK infrastructure. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32 Keywords: Minnesota Somali fraud one billion dollars, Feeding Our Future scandal, Tim Walz political pressure, Scott Bessent terror finance probe, Somali de-naturalization debate, Venezuela cartel boat double tap, SOCOM Admiral Mitch Bradley decision, Zelenskyy Yermak corruption resignation, Pokrovsk Russian advance, Operation Harmony Barents Sea, CIA warns UK Thames Water China
In This Hour:-- U.S. SOCOM awards a contract for a new rifle. Mike Milhalski explains how a Texas gun company, Sons Of Liberty Gun Works, got this coveted contract and reveals whether those outside the military will be able to buy one.-- How to survive a road rage attack.-- Lightweight rifles are popular, but they require special techniques for full accuracy. Gun Talk 11.23.25 Hour 2Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gun-talk--6185159/support.
Lauren Wittenberg Weiner is a speaker, business therapist, and bestselling author of Unruly: Deconstruct the Rules, Defy the Norms, and Define Your Success. In this episode, Lauren shares the pivotal moment that crystallized her unruly philosophy. When told she couldn't do something, she learned to transform that doubt into motivation rather than letting it paralyze her. She explains how reframing negative feedback as challenge fuel drives her leadership. Lauren explains the difference between gatekeepers who clone themselves and gateways who open doors. She tackles the transactional trap and why building an unconditionally supportive village matters more than networking scores. Lauren discusses managing multiple demanding roles through ruthless curation of priorities. She emphasizes that priorities must be constantly reassessed as circumstances change. Listen to this episode to learn how breaking free from conventional expectations can lead to more authentic success and fulfillment in both leadership and life. You can find episode 486 on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! Watch this Episode on YouTube | Lauren Wittenberg Weiner on Unruly: Deconstruct the Rules, Defy the Norms, and Define Your Success https://bit.ly/TLP-486 Key Takeaways [02:36] Lauren reveals she almost joined the circus as a dancer between college and graduate school after a friend who was a trapeze artist convinced her. [04:09] Lauren explains the philosophy of "unruly" crystallized over many years, starting when she was a "good girl" who did everything expected of her. [09:12] Lauren discusses her "prove me wrong" attitude, explaining she reframes negative feedback as a challenge rather than trying to forget it, using research about not thinking about a white bear. [13:09] Lauren outlines her three-step framework: know the rules, find the space between them, and change them when needed. [15:42] Lauren clarifies she's "not a big believer in breaking the rules" but rather in knowing what rules say, finding space within them, and changing them consciously and thoughtfully when they don't work. [22:16] Lauren describes the shift from leaders being "gatekeepers" who pick people who look and think like them to being "gateways" that allow different people to prove they're qualified. [25:28] Lauren discusses transactional versus non-transactional relationships, and emphasizes the importance of having an "unconditionally supportive village" of people who pick you up when you're down and cheer for you unconditionally when you succeed. [29:23] Lauren explains how redefining luck as preparation influenced their breakthrough when winning a $200 million SOCOM contract, saying "we didn't get lucky, we were prepared." [33:48] Lauren discusses "ruthless curation" of priorities as an iterative process, using the example of her kids being a priority but their spirit week costumes not being her priority. [37:54] Lauren advises her 35-year-old self to "stop worrying about what anyone else thinks, figure out what you want" and own your decisions without feeling guilty. [40:25] And remember…"Never assume you can't do something. Push yourself to redefine the boundaries." - Brian Chesky Quotable Quotes "Just because you can do something doesn't mean you have to." "You can't hack your own psychology. You can't stop doing what your brain is going to make you do, but you can move around it and understand it and use it to your own advantage." "It's not about bringing people in that aren't qualified. It's about allowing people to show that they're qualified, even if they don't look or think or have gone on the exact same trajectory that everyone who came before did." "Transactional begets transactional and non transactional begets non transactional." "You've gotta have the same people who will pick you up when you're down and who will cheer for you unconditionally when you make it." "Stop worrying about what anyone else thinks, figure out what you want." "Nobody else gets to define for you what makes sense for you, but then own your decisions." These are the books mentioned in this episode Resources Mentioned The Leadership Podcast | theleadershippodcast.com Sponsored by | www.darley.com Rafti Advisors. LLC | www.raftiadvisors.com Self-Reliant Leadership. LLC | selfreliantleadership.com Lauren Wittenberg Weiner Website | https://laurenwittenbergweiner.com Lauren Wittenberg Weiner Ted Talk on ""Credibility and Connection Through Thoughtful Authenticity ": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BjOjr7FLyI Lauren Wittenberg Weiner Podcast | Unruly The Podcast Lauren Wittenberg Weiner Facebook | www.facebook.com/TheLaurenWittenbergWeiner Lauren Wittenberg Weiner LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-wittenberg-weiner-1732865 Lauren Wittenberg Weiner Instagram | @laurenwittenbergweiner
End of the UK, ICE ICE Baby, Strikeman system Kirk Assassination, Military Training without enlisting, 5.56 Obsolete? Trucks, Version of the AR-15 for defensive use, 300 blackout, SOCOM 6.5 Creedmoor.
Send us a textTrent and Peaches start with monster trucks and end up demolishing the Special Warfare pipeline. But first, they highlight the absolute unit that is Scott Ruskan, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer who saved 165 people during the Texas floods—only to get force-fed a hero tour he didn't ask for.What follows is a surgical takedown of the Pentagon's latest “reforms” to the AFSW pipeline: less training, more liability, and a slow slide toward mediocrity—all in the name of speed. The guys torch the leadership failures, expose the false promises of a “common skills course,” and explain why survivability isn't something you sprinkle on later.Also: weather nerds vs. floodplain ignorance, Epstein conspiracies, and why the real danger isn't water—it's decisions made by people who never touched it.
Is the creator economy's future in micro-dramas and social commerce? This week, we're unpacking the billion-dollar rise of short-form dramas and whether they're just a smarter version of Quibi.In this episode, Lauren reports from Trilith Studios, the new home of the DC Universe, on the explosion of production in Georgia. Then, Josh unveils his new platform, Gospel Stats, and shares exclusive data on the YouTube sponsorship landscape that no one has seen before. We also sit down with Orca CEO and SoCom founder Max Benator to discuss everything you need to know about TikTok Shop, creator storefronts, and the future of social commerce. What you'll learn:-- How micro-dramas are generating billions with a "predatory" monetization model -- Exclusive data on the growth of YouTube sponsorships -- The strategy behind successful social commerce on TikTok Shop-- Why professional sports leagues are partnering with creators00:00 Intro: Late Night Recording01:12 Lauren at Trilith Studios03:45 Are Micro-Dramas Just Quibi 2.0?05:50 The Business of "Bad" Content10:17 Announcing Gospel Stats12:28 How We Track YouTube Sponsorships15:25 Exclusive Sponsorship Data Revealed18:11 Interview: Max Benator of SoCom23:30 Why a Social Commerce Conference?28:55 The Future of Creator Storefronts35:42 Upload: Good Good Golf x PGA38:11 Download: Instagram's New "Rings" Awards40:23 OutroCreator Upload is your creator economy podcast, hosted by Lauren Schnipper and Joshua Cohen.Follow Lauren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schnipper/Follow Josh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuajcohen/Original music by London Bridge: https://www.instagram.com/londonbridgemusic/Edited and produced by Adam Conner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamonbrand
From Marine… to Green Beret… to Peacemaker This week, Marcus and Melanie sit down with an unconventional warrior with an unconventional calling—Christian Hickey, Founder and CEO of the Triple A Authority Foundation, husband, father of three, Marine, Police Officer, Green Beret, and now… missionary on the front lines of Ukraine. Christian's journey reads like a novel you'd assume was fiction—yet every chapter is true. For over 15 years of military service and 15 years in law enforcement, Christian has lived a life of duty—to God, to his country, and to his community. His time as a United States Marine and later as a U.S. Army Green Beret gave him the tactical expertise to operate in the world's harshest conflict zones. But it was behind the badge, on the streets of American neighborhoods, that he honed a different weapon—the power of communication. “As a police officer, I learned to listen and speak to people in a meaningful manner. Those communication skills allowed me to solve problems, restore peace, and bring change.” Christian earned his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and is currently completing a Bachelor's in Evangelism at Liberty University. Yet nothing could have prepared him for the mission God would call him to next. At age 41, he found himself on the frontline in a small Ukrainian village, serving not as a soldier, but as a missionary—bringing aid, hope, and the Gospel into a war zone. “If you had asked me six months prior, I would've never guessed I'd be in Ukraine serving as an unconventional missionary. But God knew what to do with a born-again Christian, Marine, Police Officer, and Green Beret.” Through his foundation, Triple A Authority, Christian combines faith, humanitarian work, and tactical mission skills to reach the unreachable and serve those in the shadow of war. His story is a reminder that purpose isn't always found in comfort—sometimes it's found in chaos, obedience, and calling. This episode is a powerful reminder that service can take many forms—and that sometimes the most dangerous places reveal the deepest purpose. Christian Hickey is a man living out his faith with courage, humility, and conviction—and his story will challenge, inspire, and move you. In this episode you will hear: • What really pushed me into the military was that I wanted to become a deputy Sheriff. (13:01) • I accepted Christ when I was a young man, but I've always been intentional with my faith. (30:38) • God was real to me. He said “I'm calling you into ministry now.” I still don't know what that meant at the time. (31:35) • I believe that the season that you're in now; God is preparing you for the next season. (32:41) • I was following Psalms: 105, the lit path for me to continue to go. (35:17) • When you've got all of the DOD behind you, you don't carry much fear with you. (41:21) • When Jesus is in charge of your life - This is not my rodeo. (44:05) • I've never been shot at by a tank Before. (46:24) • The Ukranian men and women are some of the best soldiers I've ever met. They're so resilient. (50:12) • I'm the chaplain for SOCOM athletes. (61:56) • I pray that through this war, that Christ is revealed, and His authority is king, and His love is felt, and many come to know Christ through it. (70:41) • We have a God. He has a son, His son's name is Jesus Christ and He died for us. If you believe that in your heart, you believe He was raised three days later, you will be saved. Do you want that in your life? Do you believe that in your heart? All I heard was “Da da” which means “Yes, I want Jesus.” (71:28) Support Christian: tripleaauthority.org Support TNQ - IG: team_neverquit , marcusluttrell , melanieluttrell , huntero13 - https://www.patreon.com/teamneverquit Sponsors: - Tractorsupply.com/hometownheroes - Navyfederal.org - meetfabiric.com/TNQ - masterclass.com/TNQ - Prizepicks (TNQ) - Dripdrop.com/TNQ - cargurus.com/TNQ - armslist.com/TNQ - PXGapparel.com/TNQ - bruntworkwear.com/TNQ - Selectquote.com/TNQ - Groundnews.com/TNQ - shipsticks.com/TNQ - strawberry.me/TNQ - stopboxusa.com {TNQ} - ghostbed.com/TNQ [TNQ] - kalshi.com/TNQ - joinbilt.com/TNQ - Tonal.com [TNQ] - greenlight.com/TNQ - PDSDebt.com/TNQ - drinkAG1.com/TNQ - Shadyrays.com [TNQ] - qualialife.com/TNQ [TNQ] - Hims.com/TNQ - Shopify.com/TNQ - Aura.com/TNQ - TAKELEAN.com [TNQ] - usejoymode.com [TNQ]
Michael has been agonizing over which gun to accompany him, Marshal Halloway and Robert Parker to South Texas to hunt exotics. The current favorite choice? How about the .458 SOCOM bolt gun? MichaelBane.TV - On the Radio episode # 292. Scroll down for reference links on topics discussed in this episode. Disclaimer: The statements and opinions expressed here are our own and may not represent those of the companies we represent or any entities affiliated to it. Host: Michael Bane Producer: Flying Dragon Ltd. More information and reference links: The .458 SOCOM Refined/Michael Bane, TRIGGERED Fun at FTW/Michael Bane/TRIGGERED Beware the Beast: The .458 SOCOM AR/Patrick Sweeney, Gun Digest MDT LSS Gen 2 Chassis Dead Air Primal .46 Caliber Silencer Dead Air Silencers Fitment Chart Buffalo Bore .458 SOCOM The Music of Kyle Cox The Music of Retrophonic
JVL ambushes Sarah with The Darkness. It's a fun-filled episode with the indictment of John Bolton, the decimation of the Pentagon press corps, another extra-legal killing off the coast of Venezuela, the resignation of the head of SOCOM, and the weaponization of the IRS. Good times.
What does it take to lead the most elite warriors in the world? For GEN Bryan Fenton and CSM Shane Shorter, it starts with listening.In this rare and candid episode, the Commander and Senior Enlisted Leader of United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) sit down with SOFcast to reflect on the privilege and responsibility of leading at the highest level. They pull back the curtain on what it means to steward the force through strategic change, generational evolution, and the demands of global competition — while staying grounded in people-first leadership.They discuss everything from modernizing SOF capabilities to investing in families, transitioning service members, and building trust through accountability. Whether you're in the formation or supporting one, this conversation is a masterclass in servant leadership, legacy, and what it means to lead when the stakes are highest.
This episode of The Contracting Experience welcomes Lauren Wittenberg Weiner, Founder and CEO of WWC Global, a company that grew from a small military spouse-led consultancy into a hundred-million dollar powerhouse, ultimately securing a $200 million contract with U.S. Special Operations Command. Lauren shares her journey as an "accidental entrepreneur," detailing how her experience as a military spouse led her to identify a need and create a thriving business. She discusses her early days working as a White House employee, and how a proposal from her to-be husband led to her moving to Italy. She highlights the challenges military spouses face in pursuing professional careers, especially overseas, and how that inspired her to start WWC Global. Lauren delves into the lessons she learned as WWC Global scaled, including navigating the "valley of death" between small and large business. She emphasizes the importance of relationships in government contracting, while acknowledging the rise of non-traditional defense contractors. She shares the "secret sauce" behind securing the $200 million SOCOM contract, stressing the importance of hard work, assembling the right team, and crafting a compelling proposal. She also touches on common misunderstandings between government and industry, advocating for better communication and collaboration. Finally, she discusses her leadership style, described as "unruly within the rules," and offers advice to those starting out in the acquisition world, emphasizing the importance of public service and making a meaningful impact. Tune in to hear Lauren's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into the world of government contracting. Discover the lessons she learned on her path to success and her advice for fostering better collaboration between government and industry. ***This podcast episode and the mention of non-federal entities does not constitute or imply official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Air Force or Department of Defense. The Department of the Air Force does not endorse any non-federal entities, companies, products, or services. The views expressed within this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.*** If you would like to share feedback on the podcast, please submit via thecontractingexperience@gmail.com.
Send us a textCongrats, you survived the pipeline and think you've made it. Spoiler: nobody at your first team gives a damn. In this episode, Peaches and Trent rip the lid off the “career trajectory” nobody tells you about. From being the new guy fetching radios to running a team, dodging AETC orders, and getting stuck in jobs nobody wants (ops shop, anyone?), we break down exactly how fast you go from “student stud” to “old guy with back pain.” We torch the myths, clown on guard bros, debate steroid use in the team room, and even drag the almighty Chiefs' Group. It's blunt, funny, and probably the most accurate look you'll get at life after selection.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro and Nashville OTS plug 02:30 – Gummies, discounts, and random sponsor chaos 05:00 – Parents: stop thinking your kid's a Navy SEAL 09:30 – Career trajectory kicks off: post-pipeline reality check 13:00 – First assignment: proving yourself, schools, deployments 18:30 – Second assignment: team time, AETC purgatory, broadening 24:30 – Victims of your own success (sorry, Spencer) 28:00 – Third assignment: Tech/MSGt life, team sergeant grind 34:30 – MAGCOM, CFMs, and the bureaucracy circus 39:30 – Senior years: SOCOM, Weapons School, Chiefs' Group hell 48:30 – Officer track: rinse, repeat, go to school forever 53:00 – Dumb team room arguments and badge drama 55:00 – Steroids, recovery, and castration jokes (yep, we went there) 56:30 – Wrap-up: educational, slightly offensive, but accurate
What happens when a life of service is interrupted by a life-threatening diagnosis? In this powerful episode of SOFcast, hosts Matt Parrish sits down with Major David Carr and his wife Lauren to share their extraordinary journey—one that takes them from the frontlines of special operations to the frontlines of a deeply personal medical battle.After experiencing unexplained symptoms, David—a Green Beret—was diagnosed with a large brain tumor, requiring emergency surgery and resulting in a stroke that left him temporarily paralyzed. Lauren, a longtime government contractor and now caregiver, stepped into a new role—coordinating medical care, navigating military bureaucracy, and advocating for the support they needed to survive the crisis.Together, the Carrs reflect on:The early warning signs and shocking diagnosis that changed their lives overnightThe role of the SOCOM Care Coalition in helping them navigate a complex recoveryThe value of community, advocacy, and leadership during moments of extreme vulnerabilityDavid's path back to active duty, including regaining mobility, setting new physical goals, and returning to serveLauren's voice as a caregiver and advocate, helping others understand the unseen challenges that families faceThis is not just a story about survival—it's about service, resilience, and what it really means to take care of our people.
In the GovClose Certification Program, our students learn the government contracting skills to:Start their own consulting business that can earn up to $400k as a “solopreneur” advising businesses that sell to the government.Land high-paying sales executive jobs with companies selling to the government.From Special Ops to the Pentagon: Forrest Underwood on AI, Startups, and the Future of Defense ContractingForrest Underwood's career spans flying MC-130Js for Special Operations, standing up new squadrons overseas, embedding with SOCOM on urgent missions, working with Silicon Valley venture capital firms, and now serving as Chief of Joint Investment Strategies at the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the CEO of Evergreen IndustriesIn this conversation, Forrest explains:How AI, cyber, and space tech companies can break into defense contracting.Why “product–mission fit” is the key to winning contracts without wasting resources.The cultural speed gap between Special Operations and traditional acquisition.How the Forged Act, Speed Act, OTAs, and acquisition reform will change the landscape.Why the best product doesn't always win — and how to fix it.If you're a founder, tech leader, or government contracting professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate — and win in — the defense market.Connect with Forrest on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/forrestunderwood/Timestamps / Chapters00:00 – The calm before the storm in defense acquisitions00:40 – AI writing proposals for AI: The growing noise problem01:15 – Special Ops speed: Delivering tech in under 24 hours02:00 – Forrest Underwood: From pilot to defense tech strategist03:00 – The grocery store encounter that launched an Air Force career04:00 – Air Force Academy prep school: Building future officers05:00 – Pilot training pipeline and aircraft assignments07:00 – C-130J missions in Europe and Africa09:00 – Standing up an MC-130J squadron in Okinawa11:00 – Transitioning to joint staff roles in Stuttgart14:00 – SOCOM immersion in Silicon Valley venture capital15:00 – Working with VC firms on AI, cyber, and space tech17:00 – The cultural speed gap in acquisitions19:00 – Overnight integration of mission-critical tech22:00 – Moving into acquisitions leadership at OSD23:00 – Managing $200B in annual defense investments24:00 – Founding Evergreen Industries and product–mission fit28:00 – Navigating the valley of death in defense innovation29:00 – OTAs, SBIRs, DIU, and accelerating acquisition30:00 – Forged Act, Speed Act, and acquisition reform32:00 – Why quality beats volume in proposals34:00 – Non-traditionals vs. primes in the new acquisition era36:00 – Cybersecurity compliance and small business challenges39:00 – Why the best product doesn't always win40:00 – Mapping capabilities to joint warfighting needs42:00 – Accelerating serious companies into DOD contracts45:00 – Sell it first, build it second in defense tech46:00 – Validating demand before developing solutions47:00 – Discovery-driven selling in the DOD49:00 – Understanding frustrations on both sides of the process50:00 – How acquisitions officers evaluate new tech53:00 – Where defense tech funding is headedJOIN the GovClose CommunityFollow me on LinkedIn for our free GovClose Newsletter and real-world GovCon insights
Send us a textBuckle up, buttercups—Jared's back in the Ones Ready team room, dishing out yesterday's DoD drama because the PAO couldn't update today's headlines. Hegeth's memo: stop being bureaucratic wimps, buy American drones fast—excessive caution is the enemy. Joint air drills with B-52s flexing on North Korea; AI saving lives in mass casualties; SOCOM slashing Skyraider buys in half, likely budget tight. Jared throws shade at AFSOC's PAO for dodging his interview ask, calls out China's South China Sea bullying flop, cheers Senate's A-10 rescue (thunder lives!). Wraps with cyber fails, Turkey's F-35 snub (beat it, nerds), and pushing for service members' right to repair gear without contractor scams. Tired of bland military news? This is your sarcastic, straight-talk wake-up from Ones Ready—no apologies.Key Takeaways:- Hegeth's drone memo: Stop being cowards and buy American expendables ASAP—excessive caution is the real enemy.
Rick Devericks is a medically retired 20-year Special Operations Green Beret Army Veteran from Brunswick, Ohio. Rick's military service to our nation has taken him through 10 combat deployments in six different countries. Rick now lives in North Carolina near Fort Bragg with his family. He is passionate about his family and God, but also about veterans, archery, hunting, and the outdoors. Rick started shooting archery at the age of 15 and soon thereafter found himself enthusiastic about the sport. He quickly began competing at a national level. He placed first in the National Field Archery Association's tournament, and he placed in the finals in both the International Bowhunting Organization's Indoor World and the Archery Shooters Association's national tournaments. Rick also competed at a state and local level and won several championships. Archery eventually had to take a back seat to the military, but as Rick reached retirement, he eagerly jumped back into the sport, once again, competing and placing in several local competitions. Rick later completed in the 2017 Department of Defense's Warrior Games in 2017, taking home two silver medals. He later took a Gold Medal in Archery at the 2021 Invictus Games. Hoping to support other veterans, wounded warriors, and share his love for archery, Rick started coaching the Warrior Games SOCOM archery team in 2019. Today Rick continues to shoot archery and compete as often as possible, but his primary focus is on coaching and helping others enjoy and appreciate archery. www.taurususa.com www.cva.com www.himtnjerky.com www.murrelloptics.com www.jumpmedic.com www.christianoutdoors.org www.citrusafe.com www.elimishieldhunt.com
Send us a textThe Daily Drop is here and this one is overflowing with fraud, firepower, and the federal fumble reel. Jared dives into the Pentagon's latest week of insanity: $10.8B in fraud? Check. Hypersonic missiles making a comeback? Check. A free Qatari plane that's somehow costing $400M to modify? Check. And that's before we even get to the Air Force's new anti-ship missile flex, transgender cadet policy chaos, and the absurd SpaceX-White House pissing match.Oh yeah—Space Force nostalgia? F-47 cockpit speculation? Missileer cancer rates? Welcome to another episode of “Who's Driving This Thing?” The answer is: no one. Absolutely no one.
Send us a textIt's another beautifully chaotic episode of the Ones Ready Daily Drop, and today we're launching straight into the bureaucratic bonfire. Jared's back with updates so wild you'd think the Pentagon was drunk texting Congress. From billion-dollar GPS launches to PFAS exposure going prime time, we're diving headfirst into drone dread, six-gen fighter delays, Space Force spending black holes, and the VA disability floodgates cracking wide open.Also: A WWII hero finally gets his due, Canada's prepping for WWIII by 2028, and NATO's still hoping its members hit 2% defense spending...by 2036. Meanwhile, GPS going dark could cause global chaos (shocker), and everyone's pretending we'll somehow counter Ukraine-style drone strikes with... what, PowerPoints?
Send us a textStrap in, kids—this episode is a buffet of DoD chaos, spicy geopolitical moves, and “WTF are we even doing?” headlines. Jared unleashes on everything from the sketchiest Air Force One replacement idea ever (thanks, Qatar) to Golden Dome missile pipe dreams and the absolute circus that is Cyber Command's latest identity crisis.We're also sending ICE to Marine bases, cutting 14% of Space Force civilians (brilliant), and relying on $26 million to keep Reserve pilots in the sky. Oh, and if you thought privatizing base lodging was gonna save anyone money—LOL, you're adorable.All this while the Air Force plays catch-up with drone integration, and Netflix somehow makes the Thunderbirds look cost-effective. Welcome to another day in the Pentagon's magical clown tent.
Send us a textIn this extended Daily Drop, Jared unleashes a tactical nuke of sarcasm on the Pentagon's parade of WTF decisions. From billion-dollar contracts imploding to Airmen stuck in retirement limbo, it's clear nobody's steering this defense dumpster fire. Cyber Command wants to be SOCOM now (because that worked so well before), troops can't move because the PCS fairy ran out of money, and SpaceX is somehow our last hope in space. Also: PFAS water, political drama, and Congress failing military families… again.If you like your military updates with a side of rage and real talk, you're in the right TOC.
Send us a textYou've asked. We've avoided. But today? We answer. In this no-holds-barred, caffeine-fueled episode, Aaron and Trent finally break down what Special Reconnaissance (SR) actually does—why it exists, why it's not just “Air Force Marine Recon,” and why anyone trying to say “but SEALs can do that” needs to go touch grass.Trent—who literally helped write the playbook for SR—lays out why the Air Force had to level up from SOWT, why SR isn't a clone of other recon units, and how SR brings a capability-based solution to Air Force-specific problems in the next-gen fight. Oh, and if you think it's just “guys sneaking around in ghillie suits,” strap in. We're talking intel, electronic warfare, environmental sensing, sniper school, free fall, and (hopefully) dive recovery missions… all while bridging the gap between air assets and ground teams.Also: Why the Air Force finally realized being “just an enabler” wasn't cutting it anymore, how SOCOM called their bluff, and why SR isn't meant to just “loan guys out” to other services. This is your crash course on why SR isn't weather anymore—and why it's a critical wedge in the special warfare team.
Send us a textIn today's Daily Drop, Peaches wades through 20+ pages of Pentagon memos so you don't have to—and the headlines are as wild as you'd expect. From the DoD accelerating AI and electronic warfare for SOF teams (because robot war is here), to the Pentagon trying to fire every transgender troop in 30 days (seriously), it's another day in America's defense soap opera.Also: the Space Force is debating whether orbital refueling is even worth it, even though it sounds like the coolest sci-fi thing ever; the B-52 radar upgrade blows past budget (shocker); and the Air Force finally admits the CV-22 Osprey might never hit full capability again (gasp). And yes, the crew debates which generation would actually win in an all-out war cage match—Gen X or the Greatest Generation?