Podcasts about Special operations

You HAVE to see this — Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins just used his own prosthetic leg as the ultimate "participation trophy" and completely shut down Byron Donalds' refusal to debate! Pat Gray breaks down the fiery moment where Collins, a twice battle-injured Special Operations veteran, clapped back hard at Donalds' campaign saying there are “no participation trophies in politics.” Collins didn't just talk — he took off his prosthetic leg and slammed it on the podium, reminding everyone what real sacrifice looks like. This isn't just campaign drama — it's a raw moment exposing the difference between empty talk and actual service in the Florida governor's race. We also cover: Gracie the Texas Giraffe is STILL missing GTA 6 is now available for pre-sale Caitlyn Clark continues to get disrespected by the WNBA SCOTUS gives the Trump administration a BIG win on illegal immigration Hillary Clinton gives Trump a compliment — WOW! Drop your thoughts in the comments RIGHT NOW: Do you think Byron Donalds should debate Jay Collins? YES or NO? Was Collins' prosthetic leg moment powerful or over the top? Pat reads every single comment from fellow patriots like you — your voice matters in the fight for real leadership and common sense! If you want straight talk that cuts through the political nonsense and holds Republicans accountable too, smash that LIKE button, SUBSCRIBE, and share this with every friend who wants honest conservative commentary. We're keeping it real — one bold take at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association. During this episode, Dave Acosta and Austin Branch discuss IPA's APEX conference which will be September 8–9, 2026 at the CARASOFT facility in Reston VA. As governments, militaries, industries, and societies confront increasingly sophisticated influence operations, disinformation campaigns, and cognitive warfare activities, the need for cognitive security education, research, and professional development has never been greater. APEX 2026 is a two-day educational forum dedicated to advancing the emerging field of cognitive security. Bringing together educators, researchers, students, practitioners, government representatives, and industry leaders, APEX seeks to foster collaboration, strengthen professional expertise, and contribute to the development of future approaches to Operations in the Information Environment (OIE). Recording Date: 19 June 2026 Resources: APEX Conference Link to full show notes and resources Guest Bio:  Austin Branch is a nationally recognized leader in cognitive security, strategic influence, and information operations. A retired Army Officer and senior U.S. government executive, he pioneered the Army's Information Operations career field and served as the first Senior Director for IO in the Office of Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict. He is the co-founder of the Information Professionals Association and Managing Partner of Crescent Bridge Corporation, advancing cross-sector solutions to achieve cognitive advantage. He also serves as Professor of Practice at the University of Maryland's Applied Research Lab for Intelligence and Security and as an Adjunct Professor at The Citadel, where he teaches Cognitive Security. A contributor to The Cipher Brief, Austin also designs college-level curricula on intelligence and gray zone competition, blending operational insight with academic rigor to mentor the next generation of strategic thinkers. David Acosta is a Board Member of the Information Professionals Association and focuses on the Association's education portfolio. Additionally, Dave serves as a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, currently commanding the 2nd Brigade, 91st Training Division, headquartered in Denver, Colorado. He served at various levels throughout his career from the company/battery level to the Headquarters, Department of the Army G-3/5/7. He commanded the 303d Information Operations (IO) Battalion, 151st Theater IO Group at Camp Parks CA and served as the G3 Information Operations (IO) Chief for the US Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne). He also served as the Assistant Deputy Director for Joint Warfighting Development, Joint Staff J-7 in Suffolk, Virginia. His operational tours include deployments to Kosovo in 1999, Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2002, and Iraq in 2007 and 2009. Additionally, Dave is a Professor of Practice of Technical Operations in the Information Environment at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. Dave holds a Bachelors of Science in History (Russian Area) from the US Air Force Academy, a Master of Science in Joint Information Operations from the Naval Postgraduate School, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the Army War College. He is a PhD student of International Studies at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain. For more information, please contact us at communications@information-professionals.org. Or, connect directly with The Cognitive Crucible podcast host, John Bicknell, on LinkedIn. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, 1) IPA earns from qualifying purchases, 2) IPA gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

I recently had the privilege of speaking with RRC Mike Edwards, a former Army Ranger who served with the Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC).In this conversation, Mike shares his experiences serving overseas, how those experiences challenged his understanding of the world, and how they ultimately strengthened his faith. We discuss modern warfare, corruption, weapons trafficking, the realities of military service, spiritual warfare, and Mike's journey from elite military operations to his work today encouraging others in their walk with God.Topics include:• The Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC) • Life as an Army Ranger• Modern warfare• Government corruption• Weapons trafficking• Spiritual warfare• Faith after military service• Biblical worldview• Mike's ministry and current workIf you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to subscribe, leave a positive review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this episode with someone who would enjoy it.Your support helps the show reach more people.Connect with RRC Mike Edwards:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RRCMikeEdwardsBUY ME A COFFEE LINKSupport the Show & Stay Connected:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/sensiblehippieJoin My Patreon for ad-free episodes & exclusive content:https://Patreon.com/WakeupwithMiyaIf you're joining Waiola – The Plus Side, please subscribe through a web browser (Safari or Chrome) instead of the Patreon app — it directly supports the show. Mahalo nui loa for supporting independent work and helping keep this platform growing.Shop my Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/profile/amzn1.account.AGYOPCXXGH6MN5RVAKGQWVZUZLEA/list/26B87RB4FZ9W2?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_6BWRT43TH4MY2NM2XD6XWant to be on the show or suggest a guest? I'm looking for guests who can speak on human trafficking, the paranormal, occult symbolism, hidden history, spiritual warfare, ancient mysteries, and specific military stories involving covert operations, secret programs, psychological warfare, unexplained events, and firsthand accounts.Email me at: Miya@wakeupwithmiya.comFollow Me Online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WakeupwithMiyaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeupwithMiyaExclusive Discount!Shop at LVNTA: https://lvnta.com/lv_IcTq5EmoFKaZfJhTiSUse code OHANA for 20% off!Listen on Your Favorite Platform: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are available!RATE & REVIEW:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-with-miya/id1627169850Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0UYrXCgma1lJYzf8glnAxyMusic Credits: Beginning: "Echoes in the Shadows" - DKEnd Music: “Crazy” - EkoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wake-up-with-miya--6339129/support.

Just a few months into her retirement, Navy veteran Candace Esquivel joins us to battle her allergies and tell us about her career as a Navy cryptologist (not cryptozoologist). Leaving the "freakshow" of Twinsburg, Ohio, to follow her interest in military intelligence, the Navy took Candace across the world to gather intelligence on America's adversaries. She chased new challenges everywhere she went; from the fleet to Special Operations (DEVGRU), from Capitol Hill to Cyber Command, until the only challenge remaining was life after service.Rock climbing in Oman, the Captain's Mast, shaping policy, confirming Navy stereotypes, and so much more!In the Free Fire Area, we discuss best and worst-case survival scenarios. Anyone up for tropical diseases and gulags?Theme song by The Mountain via Pixabay.Support the showhttps://tracerburnout.com/

Former Marine Force Recon veteran Kirk Spradely, call sign “Tadpole,” shares his powerful life story...from surviving a brutal childhood and orphanage violence, to becoming a Marine Force Recon operator, working for Blackwater in Iraq, serving in OGA special programs, flying Blackhawk and Apache helicopters, and later supporting the Kurdish military.In this episode of Urban Valor, Kirk opens up about the day his teammate Tommy Jenner was killed by an enemy sniper in Ramadi. Kirk says the sniper was likely Juba, one of the most feared enemy snipers in Iraq. He describes watching Tommy fall beside him, hearing his teammate yell “sniper, get down,” and realizing a follow-up round had just cracked over his head.Kirk also talks about Marine Force Recon training, combat diving, counter-narcotics operations, Blackwater convoy work, OGA special programs, the moment he met a Taliban-contracted assassin, flying medevac missions for wounded troops, and attempting to help build a Kurdish Air Force before the referendum fallout. 

My guest today is Cait Conley. Cait is running for Congress in NY District 17, determined to stop Donald Trump and cowards like Mike Lawler who enable him. Cait was born and raised in the Hudson Valley, graduated at the top of her class at West Point, served 16 years as an Army officer, and broke barriers as one of the first and only women in Special Operations leadership and was awarded three Bronze Stars. Cait's career as a public servant continued at home, protecting security and democracy while serving as Director of Counter-Terrorism on the National Security Council at the White House. She later helped safeguard our critical infrastructure and election systems at CISA, defending our democracy by standing up directly to Trump's big lie that the 2020 election was stolen.  Cait is dedicated to bringing dignity and courage back to Congress. She is fighting to lower costs, clean up corruption, reign in ICE, address climate change as a national security crisis, protect our elections and stop Trumps' unlawful and authoritarian agenda. I am impressed with her strength, courage and proven leadership and have been motivated to have as many people as possible hear from Cait directly, so they can make an informed decision when voting in the primary. Early voting started June 13th and the primary is Tuesday, June 23rd. This is a critical election, so please spread the word and get out and vote!  Check out the Show Notes for Cait's conversation with Ali Velshi on MSNOW as well as Cait's website. There you will find links to donate, upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Enjoy the podcast! Links: Cait Conley's Website Ali Velshi-MSNOW

Special Forces veteran, Mr. Kevin "Edge" Edgerton, joins us in the virtual studio to tell us a bit about his own personal fitness journey, how his Special Forces experience helped him find his niche, and why 18A Fitness is the place to go if you want to be physically prepared for Army or Air Force Special Operations selection. Whether you want to be an operator or you're just getting off the couch, Kevin has a program for you. Bonus: he has "yoga on crack", too!https://www.18afitness.com/Theme song by EduardBykovets via Pixabay.Support the showhttps://tracerburnout.com/

What if leadership isn't about having all the answers?What if success isn't determined by outcomes alone?And what if the most important lessons in life are the ones nobody ever teaches you?In this episode of Be All You Can Be MSC, I sit down with recently retired Command Sergeant Major Erano "Buma" Bumanglag, a senior executive and Army leader whose 31-year career spanned Special Operations, Army Medicine, the Pentagon, disaster response, and Joint Task Force–Civil Support under U.S. Northern Command and NORAD.Our conversation explores the realities of leadership at every level from junior Soldiers to senior executives and the life principles that helped shape his journey.We discuss:▪️ Why senior leaders don't have all the answers▪️ Emotional intelligence versus rank▪️ The relationship between officers and senior enlisted leaders▪️ Learning from failure instead of fearing it▪️ Tactical versus strategic leadership▪️ The power of humility and removing ego▪️ Why relationships matter more than credentials▪️ His "4 Fs" philosophy: Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finance▪️ The inspiration behind his book Life Craft Strategies: $h!t You Don't Learn in SchoolOne of my favorite takeaways:"Do the best job you can in the role you have today. Stop chasing the next position and become exceptional where you are."Buma's book is a collection of practical life lessons drawn from decades of leadership experience, self-reflection, and observation. As he describes it, it's about the things we learn through failure, resilience, relationships, and experience—not from a classroom.

Was Jade Helm 15 really just a military training exercise, or was it preparation for something much bigger?In 2015, the U.S. military conducted one of its largest domestic training operations in recent history, spanning multiple states and involving elite Special Operations forces. While officials insisted Jade Helm 15 was simply a realistic training exercise, the scale, secrecy, and unusual locations fueled widespread speculation. In this episode, we dive deep into the history of Jade Helm 15, the military's official explanation, and the conspiracy theories that exploded across the internet. From fears of martial law and FEMA camps to Walmart closure rumors, Russian involvement theories, mysterious "death domes," and even asteroid impact predictions, we explore the claims that had millions of Americans questioning what was really happening.We'll also examine the citizen-led Counter Jade Helm movement, the FBI investigation that followed, and whether any of the concerns raised in 2015 still deserve attention today.Was Jade Helm a harmless military exercise? A test run for future domestic operations? Or something in between?Follow me down the rabbit hole and decide for yourself.#JadeHelm #JadeHelm15 #ConspiracyTheory #MilitaryExercise #MartialLaw #FEMACamps #GovernmentSecrets #Texas #RabbitHole #StaySkepticalwww.stayskeptical.comWise Wolf Gold: https://www.wolfpack.gold/?ref=jvujkwgsSources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jcwvgWpPz8GqLxNwpeJM7AHqBJL2O3JWVdE8ggKK7_8/edit?usp=sharing

G'day and welcome back to True Blue Conversations — where we sit down with Australians who've dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and shaping the nation we're proud to call home. Today's guest is Major Damien Batty, a retired Australian Army Officer who served with distinction for more than 26 years in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps and broader Defence organisation. Appointed in 1996 and commissioned in 1997, he built a career defined by leadership, professionalism, operational service, and unwavering dedication to the soldiers and units under his command. Throughout his career, Major Batty served across a broad range of operational, instructional, logistical, and Special Operations appointments, including postings to 1st Field Hospital, 1st Health Support Battalion, Special Operations Headquarters, Army School of Health, Army School of Logistic Operations, and Headquarters 17th Sustainment Brigade. His service reflected a rare blend of operational experience, strategic capability, and commitment to mentoring and developing others. Major Batty deployed on multiple operations, including Operation BEL ISI, Operation ANODE, Operation SLIPPER in Afghanistan, and Operation COVID ASSIST.  His honours and awards include the Afghanistan Medal, Australian Active Service Medal, Australian Service Medal, Army Combat Badge, NATO ISAF Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Citation for service with Special Operations Task Groups. Widely respected for his integrity, loyalty, and devotion to duty, Major Batty's career stands firmly in the finest traditions of the Australian Army. It's a raw and honest conversation about service, sacrifice, and the bonds that are forged when people rely on each other in life-and-death moments and finding purpose after service. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Damo Batty Editor: Kyle Watkins

What 12 years in special operations actually taught me about being a father, and the one lesson I wish I had known before my kids were grown.Presence is a discipline, not an emotion. Here is how the military forced me to learn it, the years I got it wrong in my transition, and how I am raising my son with grit and resilience now.Free "Reclaim the Man Within" series for men ready to do the work: https://linktw.in/wIkEXAMy Book, Excommunicated Warrior: https://linktw.in/sJwdvm

Jason Booher, Strategic Advisor to the Navy SEAL Museum and Executive Project Lead for its prodigious expansion in 2029, shares how he applies his elite SEAL leadership experiences in combination with his expertise in strategic planning, start-up creation and organization leadership to build a world-class, cultural and educational destination.  Listen Where You Live!About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media  "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 20 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union  A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued an advisory – eight days before the first World Cup match. The warning to fans is to not to “let scammers steal World Cup experience. Tara Copp and Salvador Rizzo reported for The Washington Post on Tuesday that Elias Irizarry was hired to work in the Defense Department’s Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict and internal alarms are going off, according to four people familiar with the situation. Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone feature designed to make splitting restaurant bills easier. The feature, part of the upcoming iOS 27 update, will allow users to take a photo of a receipt, assign items to different people and automatically calculate how much each person owes. Police are investigating but say there’s no immediate danger to the public. The most likely explanation is people searching for valuables underground. Still, authorities warn it’s illegal and extremely risky behavior. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued an advisory – eight days before the first World Cup match. The warning to fans is to not to “let scammers steal World Cup experience. Tara Copp and Salvador Rizzo reported for The Washington Post on Tuesday that Elias Irizarry was hired to work in the Defense Department’s Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict and internal alarms are going off, according to four people familiar with the situation. Apple is expected to unveil a new iPhone feature designed to make splitting restaurant bills easier. The feature, part of the upcoming iOS 27 update, will allow users to take a photo of a receipt, assign items to different people and automatically calculate how much each person owes. Police are investigating but say there’s no immediate danger to the public. The most likely explanation is people searching for valuables underground. Still, authorities warn it’s illegal and extremely risky behavior. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I failed the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program at 19 because I let the unknown trick me into quitting. That failure is the reason I never quit anything again.In this video, I break down what 12 years in MARSOC actually taught me about why most men stay weak — and how the operator mindset transfers into business, marriage, and the rest of your life.This isn't the recruiting-poster version. No bravado, no slow-motion B-roll. Just the three patterns I watched separate the men who made it from the men who didn't — and what happens when you apply those same patterns to your real life.

In a quiet building in Scottsdale, Arizona, there is a room most people will never see. Inside that room, 263 human beings stand in carefully arranged steel vessels. Some died last week. Some died in the 1980s. One was born in the 1880s. They are not buried. They are not cremated. They are waiting. The man who walks through that room every day is our guest tonight. He is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Alcor Life Extension Foundation, the oldest continuously operating cryonics institution on earth. Arrowood is a Notre Dame-trained attorney who walked away from one of the most lucrative tracks in American law to lead a nonprofit research foundation whose ultimate goal is to one day restore the dead to life. Tonight he will tell us things he rarely discusses in public. He will explain why roughly 10 percent of the world's 50 wealthiest human beings have already made arrangements to be preserved at Alcor, and why almost none of them will say so on the record. He will describe the DART team, a unit of Navy SEALs, Special Operations veterans, fire captains, ICU nurses, and paramedics trained to recover members anywhere in the world within hours of legal death. He will walk us through a financial reality the public has never been told, and a model he believes will rewrite medicine within our lifetimes. Kidney preservation first. Multi-organ banking next. And eventually, the restoration of a human brain. He will explain a redefinition of death itself. The argument that death is not the stopping of the heart, but the destruction of the information that makes us who we are. And he will answer the question almost no one in his field will answer in public. When he stands alone in that room after hours, surrounded by people who entrusted everything they ever were to a future none of them will see, what does he actually believe is inside those vessels? This is a conversation about science, law, money, identity, and the most ambitious experiment in the history of biology.

In Part 3 of our Foundations of Church Security Teams series, we move beyond the initial response and focus on one of the most critical, and often overlooked, parts of a church security incident: what happens after contact is made with the threat. This episode covers the realities of integrating with responding law enforcement, how to conduct effective handoffs during a critical incident, why communication failures create danger, and the importance of tracking personnel and cleared areas inside your facility. Adam McIntyre shares lessons from Special Operations leadership, practical guidance for casualty management, and why realistic, church-specific training matters far more than static range practice. This episode provides practical insight into coordination, communication, room clearing, casualty response, and leadership under pressure. The next episode of this series will focus on radio communications.   1:05 Finishing where we left off: what happens after an incident begins and law enforcement arrives? 1:50 Why the person maneuvering toward the threat should not "sit on the radio" during the response 3:00 How support personnel should direct responders  3:53 Why teams must continue clearing the threat area even after the suspect is neutralized 4:40 The importance of establishing a designated law enforcement handoff point at your church 5:30 Understanding "battle tracking" and maintaining accountability for everyone inside the facility 6:30 Why link-up procedures during an incident can become dangerous without proper tracking 7:20 Every member of a church safety team must know how to conduct the law enforcement handoff 8:12 Near and far recognition signals: visual identifiers, radio communication, and announcing arrivals 10:50 Holding off-duty police officers and experienced personnel accountable to church procedures 13:45 Why training must happen inside your actual church facility, not just on a range or in a shoot house 17:20 Why law enforcement maintains jurisdiction and the importance of avoiding conflict with responders 18:15 Maintaining cleared areas without surrendering ground unnecessarily 20:05 The importance of secondary searches and thoroughly checking any space where a person could hide 21:53 Adam explains why declaring an area "secure" was one of the most stressful leadership decisions in Special Operations 22:45 Why church teams gain an advantage by training in the same environment they protect 23:45 Center-fed vs. corner-fed rooms and how teams should practice both 24:55 Why teams should intentionally allow failure during training to improve adaptability 27:00 Responding to casualties while the event is still unfolding 28:30 The difficult reality of prioritizing stopping the threat before treating victims 29:20 Establishing casualty collection points near exits 30:15 Prioritizing injuries during mass casualty events and why deceased victims should not be placed in casualty collection points 32:00 Plain language vs. coded language during emergencies 35:30 The importance of radio training and why it's one of the most overlooked low-cost skills for teams 40:00 The next episode of the series will focus entirely on communications training

On this special Memorial Day episode, Tudor Dixon sits down with Mark Stephens, a 21-year Army Special Forces veteran and Chairman of the Board for Task Force Dagger, to discuss the true meaning of honoring America’s fallen heroes. Mark shares firsthand experiences from years of combat deployments, the unseen burdens carried by service members and their families, and the emotional realities of survivor’s guilt and sacrifice. The conversation also explores America’s role on the world stage, the importance of Special Operations forces, geopolitical challenges involving Iran and Cuba, and why understanding history matters when evaluating today’s global conflicts. Plus, Mark explains how organizations like Task Force Dagger support wounded warriors and Gold Star families long after the battlefield. A powerful Memorial Day conversation about duty, freedom, and remembering those who gave everything for the country we love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PREVIEW for Later Today: Evan Ellis explores military alternatives for Cuba beyond a traditional invasion. He suggests selective strikes against command nodes or special operations to pressure the regime, providing a hard-line complement to ongoing diplomatic negotiations.1960 VASTRO AND NASSER

Guest: Damon Friedman (Lt. Col. retired, Special Operations)Organization: SOF Missions (Shield of Faith)Position: Founder and PresidentBook: Special Warfare CEO: Helping Leaders Make Dramatic ImpactWebsite: sofmissions.org, damonfriedman.com

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Hunnewell, a former national security and irregular warfare practitioner whose career has spanned Special Operations, geopolitics, technology, and strategic competition.Steve reflects on growing up in a single-parent household, the values that shaped him early on, and the impact 9/11 had on his generation. We talk about the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the limits of overwhelming military force, and the mismatch between Western assumptions and local realities on the ground.Drawing on years working alongside partners across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, Steve reflects on how America's role in the world has changed, the growing importance of narratives in modern conflict, and how technology and social fragmentation are reshaping competition from Ukraine to elsewhere.In the latter part of the conversation, Steve reflects on parenthood, family life, and what years focused abroad have taught him about service, community, and meaning at home.Recorded on 22 April 2026.Connect with Steve on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/hunnewellstephen/.Instagram: @at.the.coalfaceAnd don't forget to subscribe to At the Coalface for new episodes every two weeks.Help us produce more episodes by becoming a supporter. Your subscription will go towards paying our hosting and production costs. Supporters get the opportunity to join behind the scenes during recordings, updates about the podcast, and my deep gratitude!Support the show

Let us know what you think!In this episode of Security Halt! Resource Monday on the Security Halt! Podcast, host Deny Caballero highlights the mission and impact of Operation Healing Forces — a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting America's wounded, ill, injured, and fallen Special Operations Forces members and their families.This episode breaks down the critical role family support plays within the Special Operations community and explores how veteran- and spouse-led organizations are helping bridge the gap between service and healing. From restorative retreats and caregiver support to rapid crisis response and long-term connection through the SOAR program, Operation Healing Forces continues to provide meaningful support for families navigating the invisible wounds of war.Listeners will gain insight into the organization's mission, measurable impact, and how the Special Operations community can access resources, support the mission, or help spread awareness.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Operation Healing Forces  03:04 – Understanding the Ecosystem of Support  05:54 – Programs and Impact of OHF  08:59 – Engagement and Call to ActionREACH OUT TODAY!https://operationhealingforces.org/Sponsored by: TranscendUse my referral link to book a consultation for Peptide Therapyhttp://transcendcompany.com/DenyCaballeroDr. Mark Gordon & Millennium Health Centers Get the book Peptides for Health Vol.1 Medical Edition today.  Use code Phase2P for 10% off Millennium products  Available only at MillenniumHealthStore.comPRECISION 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 CaballeroSupport the showProduced by Security Halt Media

Who are you when everything you've built your identity on gets taken away?For Dennis Connors, that question wasn't hypothetical. A teenage USA rock climber turned Marine Corps intelligence operator, he served three combat tours in Iraq supporting Tier 1 Special Operations, ran 250 interrogations, and came home with multiple undiagnosed TBIs, severe PTSD, and two strokes — the second partially paralyzed his left side. In March 2018, his call sign was still Villain and he had a plan to end his life the next day. What happened on the other side of that moment took him to the Paris 2024 Paralympic podium as a Silver Medalist and to a TED stage where he made 4,000 people cry.IN THIS EPISODE:Why Dennis stood at the dark edge in March 2018 — and the single moment that stopped himHow undiagnosed TBIs compounded PTSD for years — and why he toughed them both outVulnerability reframed: not disclosing weakness — opening a conversational gateSelf-worth tied to results vs. self-love that doesn't collapse under pressureWhy community with shared passion goes deeper than shared service aloneThe four pillars of perseverance: vulnerability, self-love, disciplined action, communityRELATED EPISODES:Ep. 123 — Bipolar General: Maj. Gen. Gregg Martin's Forever War with Mental IllnessEp. 106 — Transcending Trauma with Dr. Frank AndersonEp. 135 — The Lie of Self-Sufficiency: Jon Macaskill on Why Men Carry Too Much AloneFOLLOW DENNIS CONNORS:Website: dennisconnorsusa.comLinkedIn: Dennis ConnorsGET MORE FROM MTM:Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletterSubscribe & All Episodes: mentalkingmindfulness.comFNT Website: focusnowtraining.comA2A COURSE:12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Self-paced. Built for people who hate the word mindfulness.focusnowtraining.com/a2a→ This conversation maps directly to Module 3 of A2A: Building Unshakeable Self-Awareness Under PressureBRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:Custom attention, resilience & leadership training. In-person or online.focusnowtraining.com/contactHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Bryan and Marie, we sit down with David Shoup — a United States Marine Corps combat veteran who served as an infantry rifleman in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, along with multiple Special Operations–related assignments across various locations. After leaving active duty, David faced a brutal internal war: nightmares, rage, anxiety, isolation, and the emotional chaos of PTSD.Refusing to accept the belief that “this is just how life is now,” David launched a personal mission to destroy PTSD and reclaim the life he was meant to live. Through years of intensive study, high‑level coaching, and mission‑driven discipline, he developed a proven system grounded in psychological science, cutting‑edge neurological strategies, and battlefield‑tested principles.Today, David leads a national movement to eliminate PTSD from the lives of combat veterans and active‑duty service members — permanently. As a coach, speaker, author, and fellow warrior, he provides an operational manual for complete freedom, empowering those who feel lost or stuck in survival mode to fight back with clarity, purpose, and power.Connect with David and learn more about his work on social media at @Mission.Freedom.0311.

What do Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls dynasty, elite NHL players, and Special Operations units all share in common? Beneath the different uniforms and arenas lies the same psychological architecture: rapid decision-making under pressure, emotional regulation in chaos, relentless role execution, and the ability to thrive when others mentally collapse. This episode explores the hidden mental systems behind dynasties, clutch performers, championship hockey cultures, and elite combat units — revealing why true greatness is less about talent and more about mastering controlled chaos.

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

Dr. Eugene Lipov developed the Stellate Ganglion Block — a 5-minute procedure that has treated 500+ special operations veterans for PTSD. We cover the biology of why trauma keeps your nervous system stuck in overdrive, why the VA's standard treatment doesn't address the root cause, and what proper treatment actually looks like.Find a trained provider at https://stellamentalhealth.com/Help change PTSD to PTSI — links below:https://itsptsi.com/https://dreugenelipov.com/

Tampa hosts Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week starting Monday, May 18th at Tampa's Convention Center downtown, as well as other nearby locations. We speak with Meaghan Keeler of the Global SOF Foundation about the event and what it means for special operators and for Tampa's economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Bearden, Defend Systems' new VP of Strategy and a former U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret. Mike shares the story of his military career, from deploying to Iraq just months after graduating high school, to working in some of the most demanding environments in modern warfare, to eventually serving in 5th Special Forces Group. Along the way, he discusses Ranger School, combat deployments to the Middle East and Central Asia, the realities behind Special Operations missions, leadership under pressure, and the mindset required to operate in high-stakes environments. Mike also reflects on a life-changing incident in which he was accidentally shot, his transition into Special Forces, being named the 2021 Special Forces Instructor of the Year, and how his experiences ultimately led him to Defend Systems. This conversation offers a look at leadership, resilience, training, decision-making, and what it means to Mike to prepare people for their worst day. 2:30 – Introduction to Michael Bearden, Defend Systems' newest team member and former Green Beret 3:09 – Growing up in a military family and knowing early on he would join the Army 6:00 – Deploying to Iraq just months after basic training 8:00 – Learning to drive under night vision in a Humvee during deployment 9:15 – Mike's first deployment and the events later chronicled in Black Hearts 11:45 – Second deployment with the 101st Airborne and attending Ranger School 12:55 – Why Ranger School carries so much respect in the military 15:30 – Leadership lessons from Ranger School that shaped Mike's life and career 16:20 – A 15-month deployment to northwest Baghdad during a major insurgency campaign 17:30 – Mike's first exposure to Special Forces culture and operations 19:00 – Operation Dragon Strike and fighting in Taliban strongholds 20:35 – A life-altering friendly fire incident before a patrol 24:00 – Recovering in a Kandahar hospital and deciding to pursue Special Forces 25:30 – What Special Forces looks for: critical thinkers and independent decision-makers 32:25 – The structure and self-sufficiency required of a 12-man Green Beret team 36:05 – "We train for the mission we're designed for, the mission we're assigned, and our worst day." 37:15 – Joining 5th Special Forces Group and meeting Adam McIntyre 38:00 – The reality of military free-fall operations versus Army commercials 40:50 – The decentralized decision-making culture within Special Operations 46:20 – Being named the 2021 Special Forces Instructor of the Year 48:45 – Why teaching and mentorship are core parts of being a Green Beret 50:45 – Retirement from the Army and joining Tennessee Governor's Veteran Fellowship 52:30 – Reconnecting with Adam McIntyre and joining Defend Systems 58:05 – What ultimately drew Mike to Defend Systems and its mission 1:01:00 – Connecting the 5th Group motto, "Free the Oppressed," to empowering civilians through training

In this episode of Community Connection, Tina Cosby and producer Eric Garnes discuss the latest news about Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) announcing a $17 million central office reduction to ensure long-term fiscal stability. She's joined by Dr. Tommy Brown, a local educator and community leader, who shares his thoughts on the impact of budget cuts on IPS and the community. They also talk about the importance of voting and civic engagement, referencing the recent low voter turnout in Indianapolis. Tina is joined by IMPD Special Operations Commander, Charles DeBlaso as they discuss the upcoming Indianapolis 500 and the challenges of hosting such a large event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He went from an abused kid moving schools every 6 months to Force Recon Marine, MARSOC Raider, and combat veteran. Now Nick Koumalatsos (aka "Nick K") is helping men rebuild after the fight of their life.In this episode of The Resilient Show, Chad sits down with Nick, author of Excommunicated Warrior, CEO of Johnny Slicks, and men's performance coach, for a raw, unfiltered conversation about identity, transition, and what it actually takes to survive the civilian world after special operations.What we cover:    •    Growing up fatherless, abused, and moving every 6 months, and how that became a superpower    •    The brutal reality of leaving special operations and losing your identity    •    Why imposter syndrome never fully goes away (even for elite warriors)    •    The 4 phases of building a life worth leading    •    What his lowest moment taught him about resilienceNick's closing truth: "The best is always yet to come, even when you think you've peaked."We hope you enjoy this interview and, of course, encourage you to engage with us here and on our social channels.Learn more about Nick Koumalatsos:Follow Nick Koumalatsos on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nickkoumalatsos——Stay up-to-date with all things Resilient by subscribing to our Resilient Times Newsletter: https://resilienttimes.substack.comRESILIENT:Follow Us On Patreon: ⁠https://patreon.com/theresilientshowFollow Us On Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/resilientshowFollow Us On Twitter:⁠ ⁠https://twitter.com/resilientshowFollow Us On TikTok:⁠ ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@resilientshowLIVE RESILIENT STORE:https://shop.theresilientshow.comFollow Chad: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/chadrobo_officialhttps://x.com/ChadRoboSPONSORS:GoldCo https://chadlikesgold.comSmith & Wesson: ⁠⁠https://www.smith-wesson.com⁠⁠Vortex Optics: ⁠https://vortexoptics.com⁠Gatorz Eyewear: ⁠⁠https://www.gatorz.com⁠⁠Allied Wealth: ⁠https://alliedwealth.com⁠BioPro+: ⁠⁠https://www.bioproteintech.com/CHAD30⁠⁠BioXCellerator: ⁠https://www.bioxcellerator.com⁠SLNT: https://slnt.com------The Resilient Show is a proud supporter of military and first responder communities in partnership with ⁠Mighty Oaks Foundation⁠.

May 11, 2026 ~ Author and former U.S. Special Operations soldier Nick Berg shares the personal story behind his book Shadows of Tehran and lessons from his unique life path. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Understanding how government contracting market research really works is the edge that separates small businesses who win from those who wonder why they keep losing. In this episode, Eric Coffie sits down with a former Special Operations soldier who spent years inside the acquisition process, writing statements of work, managing COR responsibilities, and watching the biggest defense primes in the country run the playbook right in front of him. If you've ever submitted a bid and had no idea why you lost, this episode explains exactly what was happening behind the scenes. What you'll learn in this episode: How large defense contractors capture requirements before a solicitation ever goes public — and how small businesses can use the exact same strategy at their local DOD installation What "kitting" means and why you'll never beat the prime who invented the part number — understanding this one tactic will save you hours of wasted bidding on opportunities you can't win Why getting a quote is your first move in every government sale — and how showing up on-site positions you as the go-to vendor who gets called for everything How to work a military installation even while performing a contract — distributing capability statements, collecting emails, and building the relationships that turn into sole-source quotes Why ambiguous part numbers on SAM.gov are a signal, not an opportunity — learn to read what's already been captured so you stop chasing deals that were decided before they were posted   EPISODE CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Welcome to the Federal Help Center podcast 0:28 - Guest background in special operations acquisitions 1:24 - How DOD requirements get generated on military installations  2:22 - What kitting is and how defense primes use it to control bids 3:43 - Capturing the requirement before the solicitation hits SAM.gov  4:40 - How small businesses can profit from kitted part numbers 5:38 - Reading ambiguous SAM.gov listings and knowing when to walk away  6:34 - How to become the go-to vendor on a DOD installation 7:30 - Using on-site contract performance to build your customer network  8:00 - The special operations VTC system example and building your own kit  8:53 - Community call to action and episode close   Market Intelligence gives you the federal opportunities, agency signals, recompete intel, and pursuit briefs that tell you not just what contracts exist, but which ones to chase and how to win them. Sign up for free Daily Alerts and get opportunities delivered to your inbox before the day starts.

News and Updates: Tim Cook Retires as Apple CEO: Cook's 15-year tenure ends Sept. 1; his supply chain discipline built a trillion-dollar company. Incoming CEO John Ternus faces pressure to sustain both innovation and operational excellence. Apple's Succession Question: New CEO John Ternus is a proven hardware engineer, but analysts question whether he can manage Apple's complex global supply chain the way Cook did. Facebook Leads Social Scam Losses: Americans lost $2.1 billion to social media scams in 2025, with Facebook alone accounting for $745 million in reported losses, per a new FTC report. Federal Car Surveillance Mandate: A 2021 federal law requires all new vehicles by 2027 to include infrared driver-monitoring technology that can detect impairment and limit vehicle speed or prevent ignition. The new car surveillance mandate raises fears about biometric data sharing with insurers, while adding an estimated $100–$500 per vehicle in costs passed to consumers. Hairdryer Rigged Weather Bets: Someone allegedly used a battery-powered hairdryer to manipulate a Paris airport temperature sensor, winning approximately $34,000 on Polymarket before French weather authorities filed a formal complaint. Soldier Arrested for Prediction Market Insider Trading: U.S. Special Operations soldier Gannon Van Dyke was arrested for betting classified intel on Maduro's capture, turning a $33,000 Polymarket wager into over $400,000 in profit. Van Dyke's indictment marks the first DOJ case for insider trading on a prediction market, signaling increased federal scrutiny of platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi.

Book a 30 min. consultation with Dr. Andrea: https://drandreawieland.youcanbook.me — Get Dr. Andrea's Book: The Confident Performer: Rethinking Mental Performance for Athletes, Coaches and Parents https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Confident+Performer+Andrea+Wieland — In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Andrea Wieland — an Olympic athlete, licensed psychologist, and elite performance coach — to unpack what it really takes to perform at the highest levels of sport, business, and life. Andrea shares her remarkable story of being cut from the US Olympic team eight times before finally making the 1994 World Cup roster and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic team, and we dig into the powerful mental frameworks she's developed through decades of working with NFL athletes, Fortune 500 executives, and Special Operations soldiers. We cover the critical difference between persistence and perseverance, why your goal must be bigger than your fear, the danger of tying your entire identity to a single role or achievement, and how the “Confident Performer” framework — built on a foundational pyramid of human-first identity, whole-person health habits, and elite mental skills — can transform the way you show up whether you're on the field or in the boardroom. If you've ever struggled with self-doubt, broken promises to yourself, or wondered what separates those who reach the top from those who quit, this conversation will challenge and inspire you in equal measure. — About Dr Andrea Wieland: Dr. Andrea Wieland is a licensed psychologist, peak performance coach, author, and former Olympic athlete who competed in field hockey at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games — in her own hometown. She holds a PhD in Psychology and an MBA, and brings a rare combination of world-class athletic achievement and clinical expertise to her work. Andrea has coached NFL athletes, Fortune 500 C-suite executives, Special Operations military personnel, and high-performing teams across industries, helping them develop the mental skills, identity clarity, and synergistic confidence needed to excel under pressure. She is the founder of the Confident Performer Academy and the author of The Confident Performer: Rethinking Mental Performance for Athletes, Coaches and Parents. Her proprietary Confident Performer Framework — a three-tiered pyramid covering human-first identity, whole-person health habits, and elite mental skills — has helped clients at every level stop living on a wobbly foundation and build the resilience to bounce back from any setback. Website / Free 30-Min Consultation: www.drandreawieland.com LinkedIn: www.LINKEDIN/awielandphd Facebook: Andrea Wieland on Facebook — About Justin: Justin Colby is the host of The Entrepreneur DNA and The Science of Flipping podcasts and a best-selling author. He is a serial entrepreneur with over and a seasoned real estate investor with over 20 years of experience. Driven by a passion to help entrepreneurs thrive, Justin created the Entrepreneur DNA community to support business owners in building wealth, systems, and long-term freedom. Through his podcasts, books, education platforms, and hands-on mentorship, he continues to help entrepreneurs scale with clarity and confidence. Connect with Justin: * Instagram: @thejustincolby * YouTube: Justin Colby * TikTok: @justincolbytsof * LinkedIn: Justin Colby Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most people think healing gives you your life back.But what if it costs you the life you knew?In this episode of the Crackin' Backs Podcast, we sit down with Scott Roessler, an 11-tour Special Operations veteran who stepped into one of the most controversial and rapidly emerging treatments in mental health—ibogaine therapy.After years of invisible battles with PTSD, trauma, and nervous system overload, Scott became part of a Stanford-led ibogaine study exploring whether this powerful psychedelic compound could help reset the brain.But this is not a highlight reel.This is the part no one talks about:

Book a 30 min. consultation with Dr. Andrea: https://drandreawieland.youcanbook.me --- Get Dr. Andrea's Book: The Confident Performer: Rethinking Mental Performance for Athletes, Coaches and Parents https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Confident+Performer+Andrea+Wieland --- In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Andrea Wieland — an Olympic athlete, licensed psychologist, and elite performance coach — to unpack what it really takes to perform at the highest levels of sport, business, and life. Andrea shares her remarkable story of being cut from the US Olympic team eight times before finally making the 1994 World Cup roster and the 1996 Atlanta Olympic team, and we dig into the powerful mental frameworks she's developed through decades of working with NFL athletes, Fortune 500 executives, and Special Operations soldiers. We cover the critical difference between persistence and perseverance, why your goal must be bigger than your fear, the danger of tying your entire identity to a single role or achievement, and how the "Confident Performer" framework — built on a foundational pyramid of human-first identity, whole-person health habits, and elite mental skills — can transform the way you show up whether you're on the field or in the boardroom. If you've ever struggled with self-doubt, broken promises to yourself, or wondered what separates those who reach the top from those who quit, this conversation will challenge and inspire you in equal measure. --- About Dr Andrea Wieland: Dr. Andrea Wieland is a licensed psychologist, peak performance coach, author, and former Olympic athlete who competed in field hockey at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games — in her own hometown. She holds a PhD in Psychology and an MBA, and brings a rare combination of world-class athletic achievement and clinical expertise to her work. Andrea has coached NFL athletes, Fortune 500 C-suite executives, Special Operations military personnel, and high-performing teams across industries, helping them develop the mental skills, identity clarity, and synergistic confidence needed to excel under pressure. She is the founder of the Confident Performer Academy and the author of The Confident Performer: Rethinking Mental Performance for Athletes, Coaches and Parents. Her proprietary Confident Performer Framework — a three-tiered pyramid covering human-first identity, whole-person health habits, and elite mental skills — has helped clients at every level stop living on a wobbly foundation and build the resilience to bounce back from any setback. Website / Free 30-Min Consultation: www.drandreawieland.com LinkedIn: www.LINKEDIN/awielandphd Facebook: Andrea Wieland on Facebook --- About Justin: Justin Colby is the host of The Entrepreneur DNA and The Science of Flipping podcasts and a best-selling author. He is a serial entrepreneur with over and a seasoned real estate investor with over 20 years of experience. Driven by a passion to help entrepreneurs thrive, Justin created the Entrepreneur DNA community to support business owners in building wealth, systems, and long-term freedom. Through his podcasts, books, education platforms, and hands-on mentorship, he continues to help entrepreneurs scale with clarity and confidence. Connect with Justin: * Instagram: @thejustincolby * YouTube: Justin Colby * TikTok: @justincolbytsof * LinkedIn: Justin Colby Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Undercurrent Podcast, Garrett sits down with Dr. Trent Nessler, a physical therapist, biomechanics researcher, and founder of The Athlete Lab in Franklin, Tennessee. Over 28 years in practice, Trent has built one of the most comprehensive movement-data engines in the world: the ViMove+ AMI wearable sensor system, which has now captured over 4,700 data points per assessment on more than 490,000 athletes across five countries. What he's learned from that dataset is rewriting how we think about injury risk, ACL rehab, and return to play. In this conversation, we cover:                                  The profound role of pelvic stability and dynamic valgus speed in predicting ACL injury Fatigue-state training and why the ACL Play It Safe program works best after practice                                                                                    How Trent integrates NEUBIE, BFR, biologics, red light therapy, and nutrition into a truly holistic rehab model                                                         Lessons from assessing thousands of firefighters, police, and Special Operations personnel                                                       The role of mindset, hope, and a warrior ethos in recovering from catastrophic injury                                                                                       Whether you're a clinician, coach, athlete, or tactical operator, this conversation offers a rare look inside the mind of someone who has spent nearly three decades measuring, questioning, and refining what it actually takes to move – and heal – at the highest level.  

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Maximilian (Max) Pollack—a Cognitive Performance Specialist supporting U.S. Special Operations—to explore what it truly takes to think clearly, stay composed, and execute under extreme pressure. Drawing from his work with elite military operators, Max shares a powerful perspective: high performance isn't just about toughness—it's about training your mind and body to work together when it matters most. His expertise sits at the intersection of psychology, physiology, and performance, helping individuals regulate stress, sharpen attention, and make better decisions in high-stakes environments. Throughout the conversation, Max introduces the concept of being "introspective about your perspective," and explains how elite performers build awareness, control their internal state, and lead their thinking—especially when everything around them feels chaotic. He breaks down what separates the mentally elite from others, highlighting the importance of emotional regulation, intentional self-talk, and the ability to downshift in moments of intensity. You'll also hear practical tools you can apply immediately—including breathing techniques for rapid regulation, the role of biofeedback in building awareness, and how to "be the commander of your brain" through intentional self-talk. Max emphasizes that lessons are everywhere—if you're willing to reflect, learn, and apply them. This episode is a masterclass in cognitive performance—showing you how to build clarity, confidence, and control so you can perform at your best, especially when the pressure is highest. You'll Learn: • What separates mentally elite performers in high-stakes environments • How to regulate stress and stay composed under pressure • The power of "introspective about your perspective" • A simple breathing tool to downshift and regain control • How imagery and biofeedback can enhance performance • Why self-talk is critical—and how to "command your brain" • One key strategy to perform more consistently when it matters most Episode Resources & Links Watch the Mental Performance Summit: https://mentalperformancesummit.org/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Download the National Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Follow Max on LinkedIn: Maximilian Pollack, CMPC, BCB | LinkedIn

Raven Conversations - In this episode of Raven Conversations, we welcome MSG Sotheara Chum, a member of the Special Operations Detachment - Pacific (SOD-P)

Luke Focer was not sure what he wanted to do after high school but after reading many books on the military and being impressed by a teacher who had served, Focer enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2005. He would go on to serve two tours in Iraq and three in Afghanistan over the next 14 years. He also became a sniper and part of Marine Corps Special Operations (MARSOC).In this edition of Veterans Chronicles, Focer takes us from Marine Corps boot camp at Parris Island to being an infantry point man for his squad in Iraq on his first deployment. He tells us about the patrols and security responsibilities he had there and reveals what he saw there that made him want to become a sniper.Focer then shares how his first tour in Afghanistan convinced him to pursue special operations. He explains the conditions in Afghanistan that motivated him and what it took to qualify as a special operator.Later, Focer details how he forged close bonds within his unit and with the Afghan special operations forces he partnered with. He also takes us inside some of his most intense combat in Afghanistan and his ongoing commitment to our Afghan allies who are now trying to build lives in the U.S.

The rescue of the crew of DUDE 44, an F-15E Strike Eagle shot down over Iran, is one of the most complex and dangerous combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations in modern warfare. Retired USAF Colonel and Special Operations pilot Buck Walker breaks down how it happened – from the shootdown to the high-risk mission that brought the crew home. This is how CSAR really works.

Lt. Col. Scott Mann is a retired Green Beret with over twenty-two years of Army and Special Operations experience around the world. He is also a New York Times bestselling author, actor, and playwright; his play Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret, about the war in Afghanistan, can be found on Amazon Prime. He is the CEO of Rooftop Leadership and the founder of Task Force Pineapple, a nonprofit committed to helping veterans transitioning to civilian life find their voice and tell their stories. Scott trains corporate leaders, business owners, and sales professionals on best practices for authentic influence through storytelling and making deeper human connections. Scott appears frequently on Fox News, CNN,podcasts, and other platforms to speak about building organizational relationships, restoring trust in our communities, and a wide range of national security issues. Scott lives in Florida with his wife Monty. Scott's ultimate passion is to inspire, teach, and share the power of storytelling from the stage.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is inserting Christian nationalism into the culture and policy of the armed forces, and that's drawing concern both inside and outside the military. The Pentagon had spent years making non-Christians feel more welcome, but as Washington Post religion reporter Michelle Boorstein explains, Hegseth has rolled back that work in favor of a particular brand of evangelical Christianity. And in headlines, President Donald Trump shares an expletive-laden Easter message for Iran, U.S. Special Operations forces rescue Air Force members who were shot down, and the administration argues that construction of a $400 million ballroom is a matter of national security.Show Notes: Check out Michelle's reporting https://tinyurl.com/3rr9fwxv Sign up for the Empire City Podcast Club at crookedideas.org/empirecity Call Congress – 202-224-3121 Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/y4y2e9jy What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcast Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/ For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday

Day 38 of the Iran escalation and the stakes just got even higher. In this episode of the Mike Force Podcast, I break down Trump's explosive warning to bomb Iran “back to the Stone Age,” what that actually means strategically, and why the rhetoric signals a major shift in how this conflict could escalate from pressure campaign to full infrastructure warfare. I also cover the newly released details of one of the most daring combat search and rescue missions in modern history, as U.S. Special Operations forces pushed deep behind enemy lines in Iran to recover two downed F-15E crew members after their jet was shot down near Isfahan. Reports now indicate a massive multi-aircraft rescue package, CIA deception operations, aircraft destroyed on the ground to prevent capture, and a brutal behind-enemy-lines extraction under real risk of Iranian interception. This is a full breakdown of what happened, what it tells us about U.S. capabilities, and what comes next in the Iran war.New Channel https://youtube.com/ ⁨@mikepreachingtothechoir⁩  Follow the underground https://patreon.com/mikegloverGet your Carnivault Subscription and Save on Changing Beef Prices by locking in your prices - The best freeze dried meat for prep or dinner. Use “MG10” to save!CARNIVAULT BULK PURCHASEEmail Support@SurvivalDispatch.com to get put on the list.You will not be sent any unsolicited emails. You will only receive instructions directly from CarniVault. We put together this bulk buy because of looming major food shortages in America. There is ZERO financial gain for us. We do not get affiliate compensation on any sales.https://www.carnivault.com/promo-packs Wastach Wagyu Beef Premium Meat Snacks "MG20" saves 20% off!New Bundle Pack from WWhttps://wasatchwagyu.com/product/wagyu-sweet-spicy-stick-bundle-hot-honey/Follow me on Instagram https://instagram.com/mikegloveractual https://instagram.com/mike.a.gloverMy Book Prepared https://a.co/d/08TMwNe1

-President Donald Trump addresses the nation and updates viewers on the Iran war.-On "Ed Henry The Big Take," Retired Navy SEAL Rob O'Neill explains how Special Operations forces could retrieve uranium from Iran.-Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker discusses President Trump's comments about potentially leaving NATO.-Alan Dershowitz joins “Bianca Across the Nation” to explain the overlooked constitutional argument over birthright citizenship.-Former NASA Astronaut Captain Winston E. Scott discusses the Artemis II launch, the future of the space program, and NASA's comeback on "Rob Schmitt Tonight."-UFO FILES: As researchers are killed and go missing, NEWSMAX's Rob Finnerty asks Rep. Tim Burchett where extraterrestrial matters stand today. Listen to Newsmax LIVE and see our entire podcast lineup at ⁠http://Newsmax.com/Listen⁠ Make the switch to NEWSMAX today! Get your 15 day free trial of NEWSMAX+ at ⁠http://NewsmaxPlus.com⁠ Looking for NEWSMAX caps, tees, mugs & more? Check out the Newsmax merchandise shop at : ⁠http://nws.mx/shop⁠ Follow NEWSMAX on Social Media:  -Facebook: ⁠http://nws.mx/FB⁠  -X/Twitter: ⁠http://nws.mx/twitter⁠ -Instagram: ⁠http://nws.mx/IG⁠ -YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/NewsmaxTV⁠ -Rumble: ⁠https://rumble.com/c/NewsmaxTV⁠ -TRUTH Social: ⁠https://truthsocial.com/@NEWSMAX⁠ -GETTR: ⁠https://gettr.com/user/newsmax⁠ -Threads: ⁠http://threads.net/@NEWSMAX⁠  -Telegram: ⁠http://t.me/newsmax⁠  -BlueSky: ⁠https://bsky.app/profile/newsmax.com⁠ -Parler: ⁠http://app.parler.com/newsmax⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Potential ground operations in Iran. On Saturday, The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon is planning for weeks of ground operations in Iran. According to defense officials, current plans are focused on targeted raids by Special Operations forces and infantry troops. President Donald Trump has not decided whether to approve ground operations, but reports from the past week indicate that the Pentagon is developing options for a “final blow,” which could combine troop deployments with an escalated bombing campaign. Ad-free podcasts are here!To listen to this podcast ad-free, and to enjoy our subscriber only premium content, go to ReadTangle.com to sign up!You can read today's podcast⁠ ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠, our “Under the Radar” story ⁠here and today's “Have a nice day” story ⁠here⁠.You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Take the survey: Do you think the U.S. will deploy troops to Iran? Let us know.Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was written by: Isaac Saul and audio edited and mixed by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75.Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Lindsey Knuth, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Let's talk about Trump considering special operations inside Iran to seize nuclear material....

For today's podcast, we're bringing you the audio for a panel discussion that Senior Editor Scott R. Anderson hosted this past November, at a conference on Precision Lethality and Civilian Harm Mitigation, hosted by the Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law (CERL) at the University of Pennsylvania.Joining him on the panel were Professor Claire Finkelstein, CERL's founder and director; Christopher Maier, a former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict in the Biden administration; Dr. Larry Lewis, a principal research scientist at CNA and expert in civilian harm mitigation; and Professor Geoffrey Corn of Texas Tech University School of Law, an expert in the law of armed conflict with more than two decades of experience as an Army Judge Advocate General.Together, the panelists discussed the challenges of civilian harm mitigation in urban warfare environments, what mistakes were made in Gaza and other contexts, how civilian harm mitigation intersects with media coverage and legitimacy concerns, and what key lessons policymakers and warfighters should carry into the next such conflict.You can view articles and podcasts published in Lawfare that grew out of a number of workshops and sessions from the conference here.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.